QOTD: I've tried a lot of diets that just didn't work for me, some of them faddy, some more sensible - Atkins/low-carb, strict calorie counting, weight watchers, etc. I lose weight on many of them, but inevitably end up deciding it isn't worth it to be slimmer at the expense of enjoying my life. That's why I'm focusing on the exercise and health angles now, rather than on dieting. Because I enjoy working out, I enjoy swimming and walking/running, and I don't resent adding more of that to my life. I absolutely end up resenting giving up potatoes and not being able to relax and enjoy a dinner out without worrying about my menu choices or feeling guilty if we share a dessert. This is something I believe I can stick to, and if it naturally leads to better eating choices (and I find it does), that's an added bonus rather than a conscious and deliberate sacrifice.
Bonus question: I suppose the Orlando castle is probably my favorite just because it is the only one I've seen in person, but from photos I think the castle in Shanghai looks stunning.
I've been doing pretty well with my new exercise habit. If there's something to be said for spending money on a gym membership it is this: It certainly helps with the motivation to actually use it! I started on Wednesday and got 4 days in last week, going on Saturday to make up for the late start to the week even though it was a crazy-busy weekend (4H meeting, corn maze, town pumpkin festival, taking DD to her best friend's homecoming, parish harvest dinner, and school open house). I did take Sunday off, though, mostly because of the school & church activities but it was probably needed anyway because I was fairly sore and I'm feeling a lot better today. I haven't gotten there yet today because I've got my 9yo home sick, but I'll go when one of the teenagers or DH get home to hang out with her.