I started this year with the idea that I wanted to look sexy for my upcoming 50th birthday. I teamed with my Mom and my daughter in an effort to support one another in losing weight and getting healthy.

I am finding my energy is not as endless as it used to be. I can hear the voice in my head tell me exercise will give me more energy. However, I am learning to be kind to myself. I have modified my diet and am eating much healthier. I have eliminated almost all sweets from my diet and cut back on unhealthy "white" carbs. I am eating more fruits and vegetables along with whole grains and protein.

And, I'm moving more. Moving is different than exercise. It's not about how much weight can I lift, how many reps or how many miles. It's about getting up and doing something every day. Maybe its working outside in the yard, or sweeping the floors in the house or maybe it's taking the dogs for a walk.

I am losing weight slowly and I'm learning to love my somewhat softer, almost 50 year old body. Yes, I'm struggling with the 50 year old thing. I have this picture in my head I have carried most of my life. It is of my Grandmother on her 54th birthday and she had gray hair and she was "old". As I look at 50, I feel anything but old, though there are days when I know I'm no longer 20. I am finding this is the strangest mental exercise of all. And, learning to accept my body as it is today is critical to my peace of mind. So, I eat healtheir, move more and trust I will still "look great" on my birthday.