almost the end of the 2011.

Resolutions or challenges?
So its almost the end of 2011.  I don't make resolutions, because I don't want to disappoint myself if I forget or worse its something that I really wanted to do, but fail.  I mean resolutions in theory are something you do over the year right? While a challenge is a short term type of thing.

This year I've opted to do a challenge. 30 days of hot yoga.  Even if I'm  unable to do 30 classes, I feel its a worthy challenge and one that will benefit me regardless of how many classes I'm able to get to. In past years I've done things such as 5k St Patty's day, or multiple 5 K's over the year. All of which I achieved.  This being a daily will be a bit harder to work the timing with all the other things in my life.
So perhaps making a challenge will help you start the new year off right. Here are some ideas in case you're have trouble thinking of one or two.
1) adding 1 exercise class a week for the month and making sure you attend.
2) taking 5 - 20 minute walks every week for 1 month.
3) try doing water walking 2 days a week if you have trouble with walking on pavement.
4) make one meal a week fish if you are not regularly eating fish,
5) Start each dinner with a small cup of vegetable soup or broth, to help fill your stomach and reduce evening calories.
6) pre- plan your dinner menus for 2 weeks, so you can eat healthier.
There's a ton of ideas that may be appropriate for you. These are just a few that came to mind.  For more ideas to a healthier you, you might check out this page from Oprahs magazine last year her feel good challenge-  http://www.oprah.com/health/January-2011-Feel-Good-Challenge-O-Magazine/2
so whether its a challenge or a resolution you make, think a bit ahead for a healthier new year.

My Iron is up and what a difference

After completing and extensive series of iron iv's, I'm feeling great!  I hope this last at least until I've returned from vacation in Kauai.  My steps have increased, I actually had a day that came over 1300 steps.  It was a productive day, that included my faster zumba class, a couple shopping trips searching for fabric and patterns- what else! but also window shopping as I waited for my daughter to finish work.
Since this wonderful energy is taking charge, I've noticed my steps have increased overall on a daily basis. Also returning is a trend to go back to exercise.  Instead of going to the movies as much, I do a drop in class of Zumba and hope to be adding yoga/pilates as well.  I need to stretch more, and feel these would be helpful  as well.
How are your summer challenges going? Have you been able to make any progress?  I know the heat is oppressive in many areas right now and can make it difficult to meet those challenges that involve outdoor activities.  We've had only about 4 days with temperatures reaching the 80's this month.  I like cool weather as long as its sunny, but its not always so and people have come to calling the various summer months things like junaury(June+January), juber (July+October) etc.  My husband just keeps saying its October.  Oh sad when you look forward to those few months of sun and warmth together. Of course if it gets very much into the 80's seattlites also complain its to Hot! Oh well schizophrenic weather is the norm here.