We all have issues. I never considered my soda intake an “issue.” The only time I’ve been limited in my soda intake were the two times I was pregnant, but believing that was just for the caffeine, I drank caffeine free soda. Oh, and never diet. Oh no. That stuff is nasty. If it’s in a can, it tastes like tin; if it’s in a plastic cup – it tastes like plastic. Never could embrace it, even after Cindy Crawford made it look so easy.

My soda style and intellect? Anywhere, everywhere and always. Without guilt. Without ever feeling like I shouldn’t drink it. Without ever letting my kids have it… ironic, huh?

Around 10:00 a.m. I found it acceptable to switch from coffee to soda. Then of course, there’s errands – I had to run through the drive-thru for a soda pick-me-up to keep me from eating fast food. Then after school – I sit with a freshly poured soda while hawking over the kids doing their homework. After dinner, I would have a soda and a salty snack while my husband and I watched television.

So in a normal day, 4-6 sodas were not unusual – and in reality, when you get a fountain drink, it’s more like 36 oz (I cannot even imagine how much sugar is in that), not to mention when I go to a restaurant and think I’m making a good decision by ordering soda instead of alcohol and they come by 5 times during the meal for refills.

Other fun facts about my old soda style and intellect: I especially required soda for a hangover. And when I’m walking around an amusement park. When I’m at the movies with my popcorn. When I’m on a road trip. People run out of milk/bread and run to the store. Soda was my impetus for a grocery trip. Fountain sodas are better than soda from the can. Chick-Fil-A had the best cups to keep soda cold (Styrofoam). It’s $1.76.

So on April 21st, I “butted in” on a Twitter conversation between a couple of people and NoFizz America, I don’t remember exactly what they were saying – but I remember that I chimed in with “I love soda!” and within a couple of hours – NoFizzUSA became a part of my life. And I didn’t even ask for it! It was like I didn’t have time to rethink – I just rose to the challenge – with the support of MANY!!!

The first day sucked. There was soda in the fridge – I didn’t have one. Tried to go for a Lipton Green Tea but read the ingredients – high fructose corn syrup! So what’s the point? Had water. Hated it. Went shopping and got my traditional soft pretzel with no coca-cola icee. Hated it. Felt so denied.

The second day – I found Starbucks Lemonade. Now this was going to cost me – but it was sooo good! No idea how much sugar – but it wasn’t soda. I found something else!

And as the days went on – yes, I had to make a conscious choice to find a healthy alternative drink – another pot of coffee, iced tea, cranberry juice – not even worried about all the sugar, just avoiding soda. And I realized I was doing it! It really wasn’t that hard! There were even a few days in there where I felt so good I decided to work out! (I don’t do that.) I was just feeling strong, and in control and proud.

NoFizz America has been sincerely eye-opening for me to realize a few things… First, how bad it was for me, reading all of the articles and studies…

And second, Enjoying all of the great alternatives to soda! NoFizz America has leaked over into other healthy habits – I’ve got the kids reading labels and we don’t buy things with High-Fructose Corn Syrup. No more PopTarts, damnit. I have been inclined to dust off the treadmill. I am constantly in search of the most natural ingredients. And, I feel like I’ve found friends who can help me make better lifestyle choices!