I worked in a hospital for 34 years. 17 years nursing, 17 in physical therapy. I retired last year.

I know the effects first hand of taking my health for granted. I want to have a long and active retirement.

I've never been athletic, never consistently stuck with an exercise plan. I've blamed shift work, kids and all kinds of things, but I know deep down if I make exercise a priority, it will happen. My lower back started to give me trouble the last couple of years and I haven't been able to walk as far as I used to. Arthritis in my neck and shoulders has kept me from gardening, which I've enjoyed in the past.

I want to lose 30 lbs, but at the same time, make the kinds of changes that will keep the weight off. I've never dieted, though lately, I find myself drawn to reading about them. I'm glad I found this group now, because I don't want to get on a diet roller coaster. I bought my Vitamix last fall as a retirement present for myself, and at the time was all pumped to make everything from scratch, drop the weight and magically feel bundles of energy. Instead I found I am getting obsessed with researching everything to death on the computer- what to eat, what new gadget to buy, what supplements to take... The list goes on and on.
I'm so frustrated with myself for not just getting up off my butt and doing something about it!
I guess I've spent a lifetime procrastinating, thinking there will be a perfect time to start. If not now, when?

My husband is a retired teacher, he takes medication for BP and cholesterol. We like to travel, spend time at our cabin in Northwestern Ontario, and go for walks. We live on the river, right on the border to the US and like to go canoeing. We share cooking, and I thought I was the healthier cook, but I've learned since joining Lea Ann's FB Vitamix enthusiast group that I cook with a LOT of processed food. Part of my challenge is convincing hubby to buy more real food, because he does a lot of the shopping and LOVES going through flyers to find what's on sale. (He knows for instance that I loved v8 juice- and he keeps bringing it home by the caseload! Old habits die hard. I keep telling him to check with me first, there a lot of things I can make with my Vitamix )
We have six grown children between us, and 9 grandchildren. My husband likes to keep the house and cabin stocked with pop and juice for them in case they come over. They aren't even a temptation for me, but I'd prefer to give the kids home made Popsicles and smoothies. I feel uber aware now of the junk they are putting into those growing bodies.

Thanks for starting this group, Jeff. Good health and happiness to everyone embarking on this journey together!