About the Author - Laura Pratt

At 41 (hurtling dangerously for 42), I am feeling that the rubber may at last have made brutal contact with the road. Above the screeching of the brakes I have (not too late... surely not too late) applied, I hear my own mortality taking terrible shape in my brain. I am (she said, her head already bidding farewell to a roster of much-loved fast-fried friends) committed to making changes.

I would like nothing more than to bring you and your readers along for the ride.

It's not like I'm in terrible shape. Indeed, I have made some little progress in recent years toward improving my sense of physical self. I've started doing a bit of running, wending my way through the streets of my Toronto neighbourhood, often with my four bicycle-mounted kids in tow. But the motivation to continue this pursuit has waned desperately in these brittle winter evenings when the thought of encasing myself in Spandex and venturing into the dark is too easily won out by the alternative: Celebrity Rehab and a sleeve of Arrowroots. I've also introduced restrictions to my love affair with some of that tasty restaurant grub I've cavorted with for so long. One day a week now (in theory) is set aside for romps with this faithful partner. But the lure remains strong....

Certainly, there is much to be done.

Follow along with me as I make mine a more heart-healthy life. Indeed, climb right aboard, and let me in on some of your own struggles and challenges and surefire tips.