Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying!

This photo was taken as part of the celebration of my 50th Birthday this year.  I've been processing this pivotal time of my life for the past couple of years and trying to come to terms with the fact that I'm most likely closer to the end of my life than the beginning.  Of course, when you say it like that, it makes you realize that it's time to "Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying".  For those movie buffs, you may recognize this quote from "The Shawshank Redemption".  As a child growing up I was fortunate to have cable TV in the 70's and got an early start on way too much TV and movies, so many of my quotes will come from these sources.

Unfortunately, like many Americans I have spent more time unemployed in the last few years then I would've liked.  Having this extra time on my hands has provided my with an opportunity to read, think, study, research, and affect some change in my life.  This blog is about that change.

This photo also represents the last time I've eaten meat.  For many of my friends reading this blog, this may come as a bit of a shock.  While working in Texas in 1999 it was my goal to find the largest steak available and consume it (36 oz Porterhouse, and yes I did finish it).  This behaviour brought me to well over 280 lbs.  Part of my journey has included a significant weight loss (40 lbs in 4 months).  I'm currently under 230 lbs and working to establish a healthy weight around 200.  I'm 6' 4" and this should put me at about the right BMI and a reasonable percent of body fat.

My father died of a heart attack and my mother had diabetes most of her adult life.  Both parents suffered from high blood pressure.  As I began to review the medical history of my ancestors, the story actually got better.  I will discuss this in more detail in a blog specific to my family history.

As with any journey, it is often the first step that is most difficult.  Hopefully that is the case with my new blogventure and the future posts will roll with ease.