Skating Uphill - December 2021

Living a Healthy Lifestyle

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“WooHoo! Let’s Party! On second thought…
here’s some good advice you probably don’t want to hear.” 
– The Uphill Skater –


I recall one holiday season when my husband and I had party invitations for every night in December, including Christmas Eve. We could not believe it, and indeed felt very popular. That is until we realized that nearly everyone had social obligations for every night in December. Let’s face it y’all, the Lowcountry is a party kind of place, and Christmastime and the holidays are just too perfect to pass up a party! 

However, sometimes you might want to consider channeling your inner party pooper. I know you’re thinking: “I don’t want to be a party pooper.” I warned you I had unwanted and unpopular tips for you party goers. However, if you follow these tips, even though they seem to form a real party pooper agenda, trust me, you will thank me later. You can shoot me an email, or comment on my blog to say, “Thanks Judith, you were right!” any time you like.

First of all, and this is not a fun-killer, simply do not drink at some of the parties. There is always something non-alcoholic around to drink without anyone noticing or caring. Try water with a wedge of lime. Can you imagine leaving a party hydrated? If you keep your wits about you, you will chat more, see more, remember more, and just as a side benefit, you can have the last laugh at those who actually have too much to drink. Oh, and there is one more benefit: You will be more likely to control what—and how much—you eat! Drinking alcohol reduces our inhibitions and engages our over indulgences. Just try this for your first party. You can thank me in the morning!

Next, and this is not a fun-killer either, be comfortable. Wear comfortable shoes, a comfortable dress, comfortable undies and so on. I’m not saying to look as if you don’t care. It’s just hard to sustain having a good time if you’re being cut in half by your Spanx, or the balls of your feet are on fire. The last thing you want to say when someone strikes up a conversation with you and asks you if you are having a good time is, “My feet are killing me!” You look fabulous when you feel great in your clothes—both in the way they make you look—and feel! You will look even better because nothing hurts, and you can actually stand up.

When you do go to the buffet, which of course you will, try to pick out some of your favorites. This should be obvious, but how many times have you seen people not only loading their plates, but also standing next to the table snacking as they fill and refill? I know this because it used to be my life. You can eat literally thousands of calories simply standing there noshing. Remember, you are sober and comfortable. You don’t need to eat your way through the evening. 

Last tip: Decipher if you should go alone or with someone. If you would like to meet someone new at the party, for God’s sake, don’t go with your skinny blonde girlfriend. Also, don’t go with a guy friend. He may look too much like a date and scare off Mr. Right. Do take a friend if you don’t know anyone else and do not want to be left standing alone all evening. Kind of gauge how you are thinking the evening will pan out. And remember, it is okay for you to drive home whenever you feel like it because you are sober!

Enjoy the parties. And by that, I mean that you should enjoy the parties even more than you ever have before!!  Love, Judith

Visit www.skatinguphill.com blog for new recipes, daily thoughts and décor ideas. Also find reprints of Pink articles and shared comments. Blogging is fun and easy.

Judith Lawrenson is a former Hilton Head Island resident who has a huge heart and is loved by all who meet her. She has served and volunteered with numerous charitable organizations while living in the Lowcontry making an impact wherever she went. She and her husband recently moved to the wild hills of West Virginia to be closer to grandchildren. Judith is an avid sailor, a retired reading resource specialist, and a children's TV host whose local show originated from the Boys and girls Club. Judith is also a long time seeker of healthy, happy living and a lifestyle dedicated to service to others balanced with love of God and love of self. Check out her BLOG www.skatinguphill.com for fun info, recipes and nutrition ideas, current updates on nearly everything in the world, and lots of comments and opinions.

 

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