Crash go the pans in the kitchen. I definitely need to figure out a better way to store them. Every time I go to cook or bake it seems the required equipment has made its way to the bottom or has found a remote hiding place in the back of the cabinet.

In the last three years I have gradually cooked more and more meals. Traveling less has afforded me more time and the lack of income has made it a necessity.

As 2009 begins, many of my friends and family have shared with me that they are on diets. I need to lose weight myself but have decided that this year I am going to do it the old fashioned way - eat less and exercise more. Sounds simple enough, no special foods to prepare or special beverages to drink. Unfortunately, not so simple!

Without specific guidelines it is very easy to let portions get out of control and it is amazing the variety of excuses I can come up with to avoid exercising. The difference this year is that I have made a commitment to myself to do it, a real commitment.

This is the year that I have decided to not let myself fall prey to other people's definition of me. It is about time I gave myself permission to believe in me and stand up for myself (much easier said than done).

I am inspired by my daughter-in-law. Maybe on the inside she is quivering and unsure but from my perspective she is awesome and has always been true to herself. Last year she began an exercise program and took time out of her day to take care of herself. I talked about it. She did it.

This year I am doing it. I am not going to say I am going to try. I am going to say, "I am going to do it."

The two rewards I hope to get from losing some weight are: better health and improved self-esteem (confidence).

If you have any tips to share please e-mail me at mzdavinci@aol.com and put "tips" in the subject line.

To my family on the "Flat Belly Diet" you guys are fantastic and better skilled in the kitchen than I am. I wish you much success and look forward to the time when we are together and see less of each other.