Visualization.

I'm trying to lose a little weight before the wedding. One of the recommended techniques for weight loss (or trying to achieve any goal, for that matter) is visualization: try picturing what you'll look like at your goal weight.

It suddenly occurred to me the other day that, even when I'm much thinner, my torso will still be pretty pale. I know it sounds obvious, but I honestly never realized that until just the other day. I just assumed I'd somehow be tanner in my earlier mental pictures of myself.

Or as my buddy Lisa used to say: "Brown fat looks better than white fat."