This week is NOT a normal week. I am away from home, staying in a dorm and surrounded by food. Last night I went to a very good Mexican restaurant for dinner, and there is more dining out in my future.

But I am trying to make smart choices despite the temptations. I did not buy a high calorie alcohol drink last night even though I could have.

I brought my MP3 player, and I have every intention of doing my 3 runs this week right on schedule. I did manage to finish last week’s podcast training. The third day, I left my treadmill and went out into the hot Saturday sun. It had been a while since I’d seen the sun, so it was a good choice. My son rode his bicycle and kept himself busy riding in circles and down and back a million times as he waited for me. Sometimes he slowly pedaled right next to me.

But that was last week, and this is this week, and I am away. There is no TV and there is no Wii Fit. It is just me to keep me motivated.

Well, it isn’t just me. I am here with a mixed bunch of teachers, and many of them are also trying to stay healthy. It helps. Last night, after the large Mexican dinner, we went for a walk. This morning I was up at 6 a.m., and by 6:15, I was ready to go for another walk with another teacher. We walked for over 30 minutes, which I’m sure cancelled out the nonfatte latte that I purchased midway.(Right?)

OK, so maybe I’m not being completely good. But I have good intentions, and maybe some people aren’t very helpful –
Maureen just walked in with the line, “We thought what we were missing was chocolate.” And then she looked up and said, “Is that cake over there?”

While I was working and typing, Heather had brought in some type of cake. I hadn’t noticed. More food.

Ah damn it. I’m at a Crossroads Writing Project event. It is possible to do without food — lots and lots of really good food.

But there is also lots of walking, and I am going to take advantage of every one of those. And I WILL continue with my running program.

Despite what Maureen and Heather try to do to sway me.

Crap, it’s DOVE chocolate.