If you are like me, you would like to maintain your weight and shape while still enjoying the wonderful foods and treats that are always available during the holidays.

When last I wrote about getting in shape for your reunion, I wanted to offer a few tips for a lifestyle diet plan.  I am not a physician nor a trained dietician, but I offer some practical ideas that are easy to do.  Of course, any diet advice or medical questions should be checked with your physician or nutritionist. 

OK, are your 2011 resolutions to lose weight and get in shape still on your agenda? Like many of us, they may have gone by the wayside somewhere in January. If that is the case, don't despair, you should still try to reach your goals. I have listed some simple suggestions to help keep those ideals active in order to look your best for any upcoming events or reunions by following some easy common sense tips.

Most of us have to work hard to keep unwanted pounds off.  Instead of trying some crash diets, weight loss drugs or measures you would not routinely remember or follow, try implementing some of my 10 tips into your regular schedule.  Please know that I am neither a dietician nor a nutritionist; I am just offering some non-medical tips and ideas.  Of course, any strenuous exercise should be checked with your physician.   

Do you get sweaty palms when that day arrives every 10 years or so? You hold the announcement of your high school reunion in your hands and visions of teenager doom flash before your eyes. Is the first impulse to toss it into the trash or put it aside to think about it later? Are you getting palpitations thinking about having to lose those extra pounds before even thinking about responding? Do you start thinking about how unpopular, too shy or inept you felt?

For most of us, high school wasn't about learning algebra or doing homework, it was figuring out who we were, if we could fit in or feel competent at anything. It was more about polishing social skills and less about pursuing intellectual prowess. We probably just wanted to be popular, wear the right clothes or determine how to fit in.

School bells are chiming, the leaves are falling and summer vacations are now warm, fuzzy memories. Soon, Halloween, Thanksgiving and the December holidays will be upon us before you can say, Happy New Year!

Begin planning that reunion you have been thinking about all summer. Be it class, family or another group wanting to reunite, let's make the most of your early planning opportunities. Our book and software The Reunion Planner, How to Make Your Reunion a Social and Financial Success will help you through the planning process. To get you started, we have outlined some basic steps and listed the page number that has all the details as described in the book.