Oh, Wine, I Do Miss You So

I am not a religious person. I have my beliefs, and, not surprisingly, they fall in line with the Episcopalian belief structure of my childhood.

But, I'm not a church-going kind of person. In fact, I haven't been to an actual Sunday church service in at least four, maybe five, years. And, it works for me.

Since I was a kid, we've always "given up" something for Lent. We were also taught you could "take on" something to make a difference. I've never succeeded. Mainly because I never took it seriously. Never.

This year has been different. I made a decision to give up something for Lent. Not because I believe Jesus gave so much for us that we should give for him, but because this is the perfect time to really stick to a resolution. Not a year-long resolution, but 40 days. Surely I can do that, right?

Well, what would you know, but maybe I can.

Unlike the past several years of my life when I've given up things like bear meat, which I've never eaten, or taking on things like waking up before 7:30 a.m., which I always do. This year I was serious.

I gave up wine--both red and white--and fast food--everything but Subway sandwiches (so long as those sandwiches do not include mayonnaise).

What would you know, but I've actually managed to keep it?

OK, I'll admit it, I've had one glass of wine. But, just one. Really just ONE. Do you know how huge that is for someone like me?

And, I haven't come close to a Wendy's or McDonald's or Burger King in weeks.

Here's the best part. I've lost six pounds. Seriously. Six pounds. And I haven't walked an inch further than usual, or picked up a jump rope in three weeks.

Six pounds by eliminating wine and fast food.

I'm pretty excited, but still, really? A six pound loss with no exercise? I'm afraid that really says a lot about my drinking and eating habits.

Or, at least, it did.

I'm sure to maintain it a jump rope is in my immediate future. Jesus.
L.