Dear Readers, The Olympic Games in London are about to commence and I am about to be inspired. I love the classy patriotic Ralph Lauren outfits for our buff and accomplished young American athletes. Since I am not buff, accomplished or young, however, I am left only with these somewhat unsettling thoughts. You know those extra pounds we all seem to put on over the holidays? Why is it that mine are still around in July? It's so hot this summer, I would have thought they'd be long gone by now. Crisp fresh veggies and lots of sweet juicy fruits are all I crave. No hearty stews or hot pasta dishes for me (with the exception of the shrimp arabiata with linguini at Maggiano's . . . and hey, that was for my birthday). A remarkably wise woman (my mother) once told me that in order to lose weight one must eat less and exercise more. What did I think she said? Stress less and accessorize more? I'm definitely eating less than I did this past winter, but I'm doing the same amount of exercise. Therein lies the problem. My mother also told me that if one is engaged in a sport or exercise routine, one should look cute while engaging. Now, that's what I call great advice. In looking at my exercise clothes, I understand why I don't do more of it. They are not attractive laying innocently in my drawer, much less on my body. I need some things that are both flattering and comfortable. By flattering I mean they should not make me look like a shapeless blob, or a hopeless slob. Like Oreo cookies and French profiteroles, I carry my extra pounds in the middle. Therefore, I should not be wearing body-hugging tops that tend to emphasize the missing link (my waistline). Rather, I should go for a body-skimming top that is nipped at the waist and flares slightly at the low hip. I should also invest in a sports bra that actually lends support to my bust rather than squashes it. On my bottom half, I must part with my faded lime green basketball shorts with the comfortable (stretched out) elastic waistband that I bought at Kohl's on sale. I need a pair of better quality shorts that are not gathered at the waist but rather, slim the stomach area, at least somewhat. Also, I don't want my clothes to scream you need more exercise, Missy! Instead, I want them to bring a smile to my face. Look at me! I am exercising more and looking good doing it. And please understand. This wanting to look good is not for anyone except me. It's not like I am exercising in front of an audience. I do it alone at home, dancing all around my studio. But when I get dressed for my workout, I need to see some positive reinforcement, not an image I'd rather obliterate. That negative image makes me shudder, not exercise more. And we all know that a positive self-image is a true motivator and results getter. Therefore, I say let us go forth and add at least 10 more minutes to the dance routine. And let us shop for more flattering duds. Everyday and in every way we are getting better and better, right? That's the American spirit! Bring on the Olympics and the new fall fashions. We will be ready. Best regards, Five Pounds Less in Chicago PS. Summer Studio Workshop dates are still available and one of them has your name on it . . . 708.579.1016. Let's talk! studio workshop information | 
