When I first started this blog, the goal was simple: lose weight and get healthy. I was going to hit 40 head-on and become a total badass. And honestly? I think I nailed the badass part.

Fast forward to now—I’ve been hit with the trifecta: pre-diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Between my family history, questionable eating habits, and the side effects of my medications, it’s no surprise my body’s a bit of a mess. But the real kicker? One doctor tells me I’m fine and shouldn’t worry about losing weight—because, you know, bigger things to worry about. Meanwhile, another suggests that dropping some weight would be a smart move. Confusing much? I mean, what am I supposed to prioritize? What’s safe to eat? And let’s not even get into the mixed messages about GLP-1s. Some say I could try them, but with cancer in my bones, that doesn’t feel like the best idea.

So, I met with a dietitian (again) and laid it all out. She broke everything down for me, and honestly? It wasn’t complicated. In fact, it felt too simple—which somehow made me more suspicious. But maybe that’s the point. Maybe it doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective.

Here is the sample plan from what she gave me: 

Build your meals around whole grains, lean protein, fruits, and vegetables—then add healthy fats and flavorful spices. Just keep an eye on the salt.

🟩 Food: I’m sticking to a formula that works—whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. I’ll add in healthy fats and use spices to keep things flavorful (while keeping an eye on salt). It’s not complicated, and that’s the beauty of it. Nourishing, not punishing.

🟦 Movement: I’m committing to walking every day. I’m not tracking miles or steps—just time. Starting with 10 minutes and gradually increasing from there. Some days might be more, some less. The important thing is to move my body in a way that feels doable.

🟧 Strength: Since my knees and ankles have their own opinions these days, I’m starting with chair workouts. Once I build up a little more strength, I’ll ease into standing routines. It’s a process, and I’m giving myself the grace to go slow.

🟪 Stretching: This is non-negotiable. If I’m going to keep moving, I’ve got to stay limber. A few minutes a day can make a world of difference in how my body feels and functions.

🟫 Sleep: I’ve started putting my phone away at 9:00 PM to wind down without distractions. I read a little, breathe a little, and aim to have lights out by 11. Rest is just as important as movement.

🟨 Water: Hydration is everything. I’m being intentional about drinking enough water each day, knowing it supports energy, digestion, and overall health.

I’m not focused on losing weight—I’m focused on getting healthy. The real goals? Lowering my cholesterol, balancing my blood sugar, feeling more energized, sleeping better, and simply taking care of my body. And hey, if some weight comes off along the way, that’s just a bonus.

At 55, I’ve let go of the idea that I’ll ever fit back into my clothes from my 20s and 30s—and honestly, I’m okay with that. This is the body I have now, and it deserves care, not criticism. I admire those who seem to stay effortlessly thin or have a lightning-fast metabolism, but let’s be real: everyone has their own struggles. No one gets a free pass through life. This journey is about being the best version of me—not chasing someone else’s highlight reel.