birthday countdown

My birthday is fast approaching, and I think I need to start my fitness countdown. Do you do this or is it only me -- workout like a nut to get in shape for your birthday? I do it every year. Well not when I was 5, but in my post-college life for sure.

So I pledge to do the following:

Walk 10,000 steps per day*, but any overages on one day count against any shortcomings for another, within that same week. (You have to set up strict rules for these birthday countdowns because some might take advantage and slack off or forget they were even interested in doing a birthday countdown and instead eat a cookie for lunch.) Yesterday at least, I walked 16,306 steps. But I did have a biscotti. I think it all worked out in the end though.

*I have a step counter. Yes I have an egg-timer too. Yes I like to quantify. I count; therefore, I am or whatever.

I also pledge to use one AWAY Y privilege per week, just to get out of the neighborhood and swim in a larger pool. (see bullet point #5 below) Included in this pledge is to swim 5 days a week (which I already do anyway to keep my sanity) and take 1 class a week (which I already do too: A.B.T. with Amanda) but probably add a second. For example, the McBurney Y on 14th St offers a class called "McBurn It!" I love that name. I could try that one this week and combine my swim, AWAY field trip, and extra class pledges all in one! I pledge to do that then.

I also pledge to cut down on trips to a lovely cafe near me. Or at least I will have a biscotti instead of a giant cookie. How's that? We'll see how that works. Maybe just a cappucino.

I don't have much time. Ugh.