I've always liked to eat but never considered myself an emotional eater until I had a really rough Monday this week. First thing in the morning, I received a call that my very good friend Tonya had passed away from breast cancer. She wasn't even 40 years old. Then Swati's mom was experiencing chest pain and went to the ER. They determined she had a heart attack. Talk about a stressful day! I wound up going to town on a box of my son's Chips Ahoy cookies. I barely remember eating them but just found myself snacking throughout the morning. Eventually, I caught myself and thought I should leave some for him.

Instead of continuing to eat blindly, I decided to put my energy into working out as a healthier way to deal with the stress and emotion. I burned 718 calories working out that day. On Tuesday, I stayed away from the emotional eating and burned 1124 calories working out! I have since slowed down a bit with the workouts even though I did feel great afterwards (did not want to over do it and get hurt - not until I am in better shape). So I guess this whole lifestyle change thing is working. I am actually making conscious decisions that are affecting my health in a positive way.

Swati and I would appreciate you keeping her mom in your prayers. Tonya's father is a preacher and I am sure her family would appreciate your prayers as well. Thanks all. -Michael