BUCKING THE SYSTEM: NEW YEAR BRINGS IN OLD RESOLUTION

We may be in a new year, but for some reason I find myself making the same old resolution.

Every year I redesign the classic "lose weight" resolution in an effort to give it new life. Sometimes I resolve to "lose 25 pounds," other years it's "get fit," and sometimes my resolution is to "improve my physical self-image." I always join a gym or start some type of exercise regimen, and I find myself skimming the newspaper's classified ads for cheap exercise equipment those who can afford to purchase new stuff are getting rid of in favor of the newest gadgetry available.

I try, I really do, and for awhile everything goes well. But in the end, it all follows the same pattern. Start a diet, lose 18 pounds, stall on the scales, then crash and burn, all before the end of March.

In fact, the only real benefit I see to this whole resolution business outside of the loss of a little water weight is it gives me a reason to go out and purchase new underwear, socks and gym shoes for myself.

But even though I've come to loath these resolutions, I find myself, along with just about everybody else I know, renewing my promise to lose weight year after year. Of course, I have an added incentive this year: I will celebrate my 30th birthday March 20.

It's amazing how much pressure you'll put on yourself when a major milestone like a wedding, birthday or class reunion is around the corner.

Last summer, I not only promised myself I'd reemphasize my Millennium Resolution to lose weight, but I also decided to return to the university and complete my degree, a goal I accomplished last month.

I didn't pay much attention to the weight loss during the fall, probably because I was trying to keep my head above water with my classes. But the time commitment it took to show up and do something at my job and school, and with my family, church and Cape Girardeau Civic Center Boys and Girls Club (notice the new name), was enough to help me shed my water weight a few months early -- or late, depending upon your perspective.

And so now, early in the year 2001 and just a couple of months before my birthday, I find myself resolved once again to lose weight. I've joined a local gym, along with my husband, and we do hereby promise to take his bad back and my bad arm to the gym regularly for an aerobic workout.

At the very least, our timing is exactly right. Based on my previous experience, I should have a good weight loss just prior to my birthday, thereby meeting my goal. But I really would like to get some mileage out of my health club membership fee for once, which will mean continuing my workout beyond my birthday.

Of course, a resolution achieved is a resolution achieved, and I've already made my 2001 fitness purchases.

Bring on the birthday cake.