Fat Tuesday

I've never paid much attention to Lent. I'm not really sure why, but it's just never something that I've practiced. Because of that, I only know a little bit about it. I do know that it's partly about self-sacrifice and discipline. Putting away the flesh and worldly desires.

I also know  (thanks to my awesome friends at work) that today is Fat Tuesday, and that Lent starts tonight at midnight. I was challenged by Christie and Jess to give up something for the next forty days. Something that would be difficult for me to give up. I might be addicted to stopping at McDonalds before work. I might do it every single day. AND, I might order chicken nuggets and a large diet coke. Every. Single. Time. Christie pointed this out to me and suggested I give up McDonalds for Lent.

I thought about it on my way home from work last night, and I decided I would do it. But, I will not just be giving up McDonalds for the next forty days. There are a few other things I thought of, as well. Now, you'll notice that all of mine are food related. I think a lot of people give up food stuff for Lent, and there's a reason for that. I know at least for me, sometimes food seems to take hold of my life. I easily form habits, and lately the eating habits that I've picked up are terrible!! I worked really hard to shed 35 pounds, and in the last few weeks I've gained some of that back because I've let my cravings take over!

While I'm anxious to put a stop on the weight gain, this isn't just about dieting. It's about being disciplined and having self-control. I don't know what else it's about, but I'm going to find out. During the next forty days, while I deprive myself of three things, I'm also going to be researching Lent and learning more about it. I want to be educated and know the historical, religious, and spiritual aspects of this tradition.

The following three foods have really taken over my life lately. And, as embarassing as this is, I'm going to share them with you. For the last few weeks I've indulged in far too much of these foods, and that is why I am giving them up:

1. McDonalds

2. Ice Cream

3. Popcorn

So there you have it. My dirty little secrets are out for everyone to see!! I'm serious when I say that I'll probably lose 10 pounds without these in my life for the next 40 days! I'm telling my friends, family, and you all so that I can be held accountable. I might need all the help I can get, but I know that I will come out of the next forty days stronger, and more confident in myself.

Cheers to Fat Tuesday!!

~Amanda