Last summer, we went to Disney World & Universal for two weeks, the bulk of the trip was spent with Mickey. We try to take a vacation every summer and have enjoyed Cape Cod several times as well.

This summer is going to be very different. Instead of expensive resorts and restaurants, we will be roughing it. I will not be buying a new bathing suit or fabulous pair of sandals. I will be buying air mattresses, sleeping bags, work boots, and jeans. I won't be packing my make-up bag, I will be packing my hammer. This year we are going on a mission trip to Appalachia with our church.

A big part of me wanting to lose weight is directly related to this mission trip. We will be working 8 hours a day in extremely hot temperatures, and we aren't allowed to wear shorts. I could end up putting on a new roof or nailing up sheetrock. Whatever my job for the week, I will be one of several adults in charge of 30 teenagers.

In other words people, I will need to be in better shape than I currently am. I do know that more weight loss will prepare me physically. The 14 lbs. I've lost so far have made a big difference already.

So, what are you doing this summer? Will your plans run more smoothly with less pounds on your body?