"I remember Fanny May but from where I'm standing now, Looking at my fanny may remind one of a cow" --The Four Bitchin' Babes

[Sadly, Yogi's choice of tie only accentuates his hips.]


Careful! Don't get too close. Yeah, I got it: the internet bug that's going around. You've heard about it. You know. Not the H1N1, but the piggy virus all the same. It's the one that makes you gain 10 pounds. I can't believe I caught that. I must have swung in a little close on some of my comments. Ugh. Believe me, you don't want it.

It's true. I am up 10 pounds as of the writing of this post. I, like a bear, have put on my winter layer. Except it's a little early here, as there is no snow. And it's too early to hibernate. And, oh, yeah, I'm not a bear! *grumble* Well, I may be a bear to live with but that's a whole different post.

I am 10 pounds up from what I call "Vacation Weight." Vacation Weight is that number I traditionally get down to before I go on a (beach) vacation so I'll feel good about wearing less clothing. Usually, I am do or die about this, but this year? Somehow I just couldn't deal. Unlike previous attempts, before this trip, I got to within 5 pounds of Vacation Weight and gave up. Then, on vacation I added another 5 pounds hither and yon.

Where did Vacation Weight come from? It is a number given to me by my husband. Now, hold up. Before you blast Hubby, I'm not talking about him. Twenty-five years ago, my then husband told me the weight he thought I shouldn't go above. (Did I mention he didn't have mad skillz in the people department? Hence, the "ex".) I have been trying--and more often than not failing--to meet that standard given to me by someone I haven't talked to in over 20 years. Thaaaat's right. L. A. Cochran: Embracing the Crazy Since 1985.

I went shopping last week and I am between sizes. Size-wise, I am sort of like the equator right now: splitting down the middle (which may describe my pants if I'm not careful). Clothes I would naturally reach for? Too tight. Things I will settle for? Too loose. At least I know a good tailor.

Well, so, what to do? Do I ramp up the exercise and ramp down the calories and embrace Biggest Loser as more than a spectator sport? Or do I drift up to the next size: embracing my inner Yogi? (Bear, that is.)

Hm. I've always had a fondness for pic-a-nic baskets. Then, again, I practically wear a WWJD (What Would Jillian Do) bracelet.

So, is gaining 10 pounds reason for concern? And while you're weighing (heh) in... *looks hungrily at plate* Are you gonna eat that?