Some people describe their thoughts as spiralling, or racing. Mine are following an elliptical orbit. A little off center, but still regular for the most part.

Several years back, I pushed maximum density at 180 pounds on my five-foot-two-inch frame. Last winter, I dropped 24 and only gained back 4 in this last year. Yup, I'm at 160 big ones. It's still too much, but it's less than I've weighed in seven years. People notice.

Now I have an elliptical trainer, a home exercise machine far superior, ergonomically speaking, to a StairMaster or NordicTrak. No damage to your knees. Plenty of resistance without the wear and tear.

This morning, fourth day in a row of working out, I did 400 calories in 33 minutes. That is, apparently, an ass-kicking workout.

I've worked out 70% of days since mid-December. I want to make that more like 5 days a week. Another 20 pounds this winter would make me quite happy.

I do want to look better, yes, but my real motivation is to lower my blood pressure and avoid a stroke or heart problems, like the more robust members of my family.

I drag ass getting onto the machine, but once I'm on, I'm up and running. Here's to many more mornings up the same.