I have been perpetually trying to lose weight, not to the point of skinny, but just to be healthy.

Ten years ago, I would not even think of going to the doctor nor the dentist but once I started, the doctor never lets me leave unless I make an appointment within three months. The dental and optical offices mail a reminder when I'm due for a visit.

I'm actually happy with my doctor. She came from the same country as I did so I can tell her everything in two languages. I was so sick once and she initiated to see me without an appointment. She nags me for my annual pap smear and mammogram, arguing that the insurance companies nag her too. Preventive steps are cheaper so they try to keep you in good health.

But a lifesytle of vacuum cleaners, HDTV's and hand-held devices do not really make things easier for all of us. Rather, they feed our appettite for instant gratification. We get bored with one and stress ourselves out - physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially - looking for the next big toy.

Last week, I attended my first classes of line dancing, basic photography, and tai chi. The photography class has no dress code. The dancing class requires that rubber-soled shoes be worn, the instructions typed in bold letters in the pamplet. Tai chi didn't require anything at all but I realized I had to update my fitness wardrobe. There is a 15-minute meditation prep. Not only do I want to look good, I want to feel comfy.

Off to the mall I go shopping for shirts, tanks, sweats, and the elusive jogging pants in petite size. I couldn't find a pair, I settled for what they call 'yoga' pants, made of materials that dry easily, anti-microbial, with UV protection, and a stronger waistband to make my mid-section look slimmer.

The cost of the tai chi class is $25. Wardrobe cost now runs under $300, which is reflected in my own and my husband's credit card bills. He enrolled two other physical fitness classes. We never splurged  that much before. I have to continue being active beyond the 10 weeks, which is the number of classes I am supposed to attend, to make the investment worthwhile.

I am now scouting for dance studios which accomodates adult beginners. My husband is checking out bowling alleys and batting cages while looking for my late father-in-laws golf clubs somewhere at home. More expenses are likely to follow unless we become creative. We've been distracted by a lot of things.