It may be the fact that I'm sliding inelegantly towards 40 like a man on a dustbin liner down a rain-soaked slag heap , but a few months ago I decided to get myself definitively into shape for the first time in around 15 years. Another factor that has helped me find motivation is my brother-in-law's suggestion that the calcified herniated disc in my back may be best treated by removing an entire vertebra and connecting some metal apparatus to keep me erect , a surgical procedure that may look good on his CV, but will not have my willing, or conscious, participation if I can help it. My diet has been enriched by the serendipity of Brazilian fodder . Most fattening foods and drinks are entirely unsavoury as far as I am concerned. The beer makes me nauseous or bloated , or both, the ham is like an overly pink slab of an overweight adolecent's buttock , the bacon is 90% fat and 10% meat , but best/worst of all, all the cheeses taste exactly the same , and may be differentiated ...
Wistful reflections, petty glories.