"Life expectancy would grow by leaps and bounds if green vegetables smelled as good as bacon." -Doug Larson

I don't talk politics too often, but I'm just going to put it out there: I love Michelle Obama. And hence, I love this campaign. This morning, The New York Times reported the release of MyPlate (above), the new and improved "food pyramid" which is a part of the first lady's anti-obesity campaign. I don't know about you, but when I was growing up, I never memorized the food pyramid. In fact, I've always found it a bit confusing, and therefore, generally chose to ignore it. Now, that's not to say I just ate cake and candy all day (I wish!), but my proportion of grain to protein to fruits and vegetables is surely not always accurate.

Courtesy ThisNext.com

A few years ago, I saw an advertisement for "portion plates" which have strategically placed decorations on them to encourage portion control (right). How great is that? Some of the plates have words on them so as to relieve any confusion at all, but in general, I think it's a brilliant guide to eating healthier.

So, I say congrats to Michelle Obama and the USDA for capitalizing on this simple, yet creative, and hopefully effective method for teaching kids (and adults!) how to properly fuel their bodies. With portion control, healthy foods, and daily exercise, I look forward to our country's improved health and longevity!

For more information on this campaign, visit www.choosemyplate.gov

P.S. Don't you love the quote? SO TRUE. Mmmm Bacon...

"Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and methodical physical exercise save it and preserve it." - Plato

Whoever says fitness is a "new" phenomenon is clearly in denial; because low and behold, even Plato, the great Greek philosopher, believed in the power of physical activity as a means to preserve the human body and general well-being.

I mean, look at the svelte figure Plato boasted in his hey-day:

Plato, the athlete! Photo Courtesy: onelittleangle.com

No doubt he has rock-hard abs under the cloak. OK, just kidding, but in all seriousness, I agree that we should value exercise, health, and fitness. Particularly after my "lack of activity" this Mardi Gras season, I have officially hit the pavement running! No pun intended. 

My latest fitness obsession is called Les Mills Body Pump, and it will kick your booty! It is one hour of pure weight-lifting cardio, set to high energy music. See the hard bodies in action below:

Les Mills Body Pump, Photo Courtesy: www.LesMills.com

Body Pump two times a week, plus runs and basic weight training two other days a week, and I hope to preserve, and even maybe even improve the condition of my body as we enter the summer months. And, if I keep it up, maybe I'll live to 105 years-old like the lovely woman I saw celebrating her birthday today at the Kingsley House in New Orleans. Fingers crossed!