My life through John Goodman's eyes.

I just saw photos of and read an article about John Goodman shedding over 100 pounds recently. They had attached photos of him from 2008 & 2009. I was so proud, looking at those photos. The article quipped that he looked younger and healthier than he had in years.

I only bring this up because I used to think of myself as a sort of poor man's Dan Conner (his role on Rosanne). And then I started to think of how I looked at some of my Hollywood heros, like Jim Belushi and Chris Farley and people like Kevin James or to a lesser extent, Meatloaf. Did I find solace in the fact that these portly entertainers had success despite their waistlines? Was I comforted to see someone represent me on the big and small screens that raised me? A few comedies even seemed to pattern after what my life was like, fat guy and skinny, hot wife (King of Queens and Still Standing, the latter which was almost exactly like my life). I looked at these and didn't see a problem, not until Dr. P stepped into my life.

Dr. James Parnell, our family's general practitioner and all around guru is a straight shooter. He tells it like it is and never beats around the bush about anything and everything. He looked at me one day and said, "Chris, if you don't change your ways, you'll be dead by 50." Let that sink in. That's scarier than Jason, Freddy, Michael or the Exorcist combined. I had been on the fence about doing something about my weight. I've had more gym memberships than 1 person needs in a lifetime but the other side of that coin is there is no one better than me to justify why NOT to go and work out. Thank you Dr. Parnell for finally having the balls to say what needed to be said, for shocking me into the reality of my life, for putting it into the ultimate perspective. I will forever be in your debt.

So, it's the Saturday before my appointment with my Surgeon on Monday. I am nervous and excited. I think, weirdly, I'm more excited to get an ultrasound on my gall bladder and stuff. I love procedures and how the body works. I should've been a doctor; but I gave that dream to my ex-wife. I can't wait to have a focal point in my life. That will come with the surgery date. I have a nice, long couple of shifts ahead of me to help the time move faster. I can't wait to be able to satisfy the inquisitors when I'm asked "when". I can't wait!