More Buddha Belly

I must say, at 30-something, I have a whole lot to be thankful for. You know, all the usual stuff, a fantastic spouse, a decent job, super-fabulous friends, loving family, etc.

I can deal with not moving as fast, slower post-cocktail recovery and a few aches. I even gracefully accepted breaking the 30 inch waist after my 32 birthday.

Reality hit me today and it was far from a love tap on the tush. I can no longer ignore the signs: belly buldge in a tight t-shirt, difficulty with the button on my pants and a pair of meaty thighs. Some would call me an impolite name or two if I mentioned my dilemma in cocktail conversation. After giving me a once over, the response is usually, "What are you complaining about, your too damn skinny."

It's true, I don't have the look of a typical middle-aged guy, I'm just trying to adjust to a slower metabolism. For as long as I can remember, I could eat anything and everything and never gain any weight.

After moving to Atlanta, I began to notice many Southern folks were shaped like pears. Then I noticed my shape shifting. I scrambled to adjust my habits, cutting back on indulgent meals and evening pints of ice cream. Yet, the Buddha Belly continued its growth.

Some nights I toss and turn in bed wondering if there was something in the Atlanta water or worse yet, the air. You know some kind of pear shape growth hormone.

I may respect Buddha and his teachings but today I declared war on the belly! I'm in this for the long haul, doing everything in my power to conquer it. War is hell and only time will tell just how ugly it will get.

During this battle, my mantra is BBG - Belly be Gone!