With several of you reporting in, it seems like a great time, headed into the Labor Day holiday weekend, to recap our progress and renew our commitment to keep moving forward!

Everyone seems to be getting to 80 ounces of water daily. Cardio is a bit of a stretch, and, many of you are making that happen as well. The biggest challenges being faced are time management and food choices.

Let's face it - exercise won't happen unless it goes on our calendars. For some (thanks JL), that means putting a recurring appointment in your Outlook calendar for these 40 days that simply says, "80 oz., 20 min." For others, that means actually blocking time in a specific hour to get to the gym to work out. If you had a client request time from you, you'd schedule it, right? You owe it to yourself to make that same level of commitment when it comes to your health and well-being.

With a holiday weekend upon us, many of us will be attending barbecues and be tempted to eat beyond fullness with less-than-ideal options to choose from. Some ideas for rescuing yourself:

1. Drink 20 ounces of water before you go, and carry water with you at the party.
2. Eat healthy food before you go. You'll be fuller and less likely to eat two or three hot dogs by the grill.
3. Take smaller portions. Get a taste of everything you live, not a full serving. It's important not to deprive yourself of things you enjoy!
4. Take hard candies or gum in your pocket, and when you get a craving, substitute.
5. Be active. If you have the extra beer or piece of pie, then go toss the frisbee around afterward. If you're being active, you're less likely to snack anyway!

Enjoy the long weekend, and stay committed to yourself.