Reality check -- moderation please!

I am posting based on inspiration that came from an email exchange with a visitor to the blog. This lass had some questions that got me thinking about the essence of life. BALANCE. Equilibrium. What every organized system strives for on a continual basis. Life is about maintaining balance and if something occurs to push us out of equilibrium, internal and external forces work vigorously to put things back in place. In diet, exercise, nutrition it is no different. I don't punish myself if I slip out of a hard-core, early morning workout schedule. In the long run, a few skipped sessions on the elliptical are not going to make a difference if they are balanced by moderation in calories (with the help of low-calorie foods and snacks - a la Splenda®) and vigorous activity on most days. The same is true with any vice, be it chocolate or a delicious spending spree. It is what we do consistently that defines the quality of our lives. Enjoy life, be gentle to yourself, and savor the pleasures that surround you! Happy Friday!
Audrey T.