The Better Wows

Right now I'm reading "The Shift: How I Finally Lost Weight and Discovered A Happier Life" by Tory Johnson, a Good Morning America contributor. After years of trying fad diets and failing, she shifted her thinking to making lifestyle changes instead. I'm not very far into the book yet, but so far, I really like what she has to say. I find I keep highlighting things I want to remember. Like this one:

"Food, for me now, is fuel. It does not have to be amazing, entertaining, or exciting. Each meal does not have to be like a trip to the county fair or a fantasy segment of Top Chef. I have had enough “Wow!” meals to last a lifetime. I want a different set of “wows” now. I want “Wow! You’ve lost a lot of weight!” comments from my colleagues and friends. I want the “Wow! I never thought I’d fit into this size pants” feeling when I enter a department store dressing room. I want the quiet “Oh my goodness, wow!” of stepping on the bathroom scale and seeing a number that does not make me flinch, a number that makes me feel as strong and healthy as I long to be."

Wow, can I identify with that one. So many times in the past I've gone for the "wow" meal -especially when I travel, or try a new restaurant, or have a special occasion or..well...even have a bad day at work. But you know what? I can count on one hand how many of those "wow" meals I truly remember - even from when we were in Italy. My husband and I have decided that maybe, just maybe, those "wow' meals aren't worth it - for either the expense or the calories.

But those other "wows" that Tory mentioned...those are priceless and calorie-free and things I will remember for a long time. Those are the kind of "wows" I want!