Morning Ride & Pop & a Bit of Philosophy

This morning was gorgeous.  60* and clear sky.  I got up at 5:30, inhaled my two scrambled eggs and about 20 ounces of water, and hit the path on the bike by 5:50.  Notice the conspicuous lack of Dr. Pepper. I've decided to quit again. I've been trying to lose the 10 winter pounds for a couple months now, but the scale isn't budging, despite using MFP and being diligent.  So, I'm looking at you, sugar.  I just can't have a relationship with soda. It's no good for me.  I have to say - starting the day with a ride made it 1,000x easier to skip it. I totally haven't missed it (despite the fact I'm typing about it). [Update 6/30/15 - still haven't stuck to quiting. I will, though.]

Also...generally speaking I live my life being grateful daily.  I'm a very lucky person. I had a wonderful childhood.  I've had mostly wonderful people in my life, and those that I perceived as not-so-wonderful, I've been able to learn and grow from that interface.  My house isn't fancy - but we're paying less for it than people rent apartments for, because we bought at a good time and knew we didn't want to max out what the bank told us we could "afford" (get financing for) .  My job is stressful, but I work with wonderful people and I believe in what we do and the people who do it, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.  I am rich in my family and friends.  I feel also, that I'm lucky to be able to recognize and have gratitude for my life. There are many people who always want more, and who are perpetually miserable because they can't ever "achieve" happiness and contentment, despite always trying to reach it.  Luckily, over the years, I have learned how to feel happy and content NOW, no matter what, and to recognize that loneliness, sadness, frustration - are all a part of the experience, and don't have to override my overall gratitude. I'm very thankful for having the ability to learn that over the years, and embrace it.  Knock on wood, for all of it.