Junk the junk for a fresh, clean start

Remove all the food saboteurs from your cupboard, cabinets, refrigerator, and freezer. If you follow Lenten practices (or even if you don't), it's a good time to get back to basics and strip out the extras.

You know the extras we're talking about – the chips and dips, the ice cream, the candies and cookies. Your intentions are good – you'll just have an occasional treat, right?

Wrong! You'll be tempted during times of weakness – boredom, stress, thirst, pressed for time, angry or upset, etc., etc., etc.

While you're at it, read the labels of all the prepared and processed food – cereals, frozen breakfasts and dinners, drink mixes and juices, canned soups and sauces. You may find "junk" on those labels, too, and it's just easier to get rid of the things you don't want standing in your way to good health. (If the packages are unopened, we suggest a donation to your local food shelf. Some food is better than no food for many people.)

So while you're feeling strong today, fill your garbage bags, not your saddlebags!