Update

So it has been 8 weeks since I started this new lifestyle and blog. Today I am happy to say I reached my first weight loss goal! Even with unexpected events, eye surgery for example, I managed to drop the pounds. I really don't feel like I have been on a "diet", it feels more like I have picked up a new habit...it is just a healthy habit. I would like to outline a few things that I feel have helped me on this road so far.

*At the start, I set out a long term goal. To lose X amount of weight by New Years 2011. I then broke that Big X into smaller goals with no real time line for each. That way I set myself up for achievement instead of failure. In the past I would tell myself "I am going to lose 3 pounds this week" only to be disappointed with a loss of 1 pound! A slow and steady weight loss is what I am shooting for.

*In the past I would weigh myself once a week. That also led to disappointments and then set-backs. I now weigh myself once every 2 weeks.

*One day a week I set aside time to meal plan. Usually on Monday I will sit down with cookbooks and write out the plan for the week. I try to cook with leftovers in mind, that way I am only in the kitchen every other night. I don't just plan dinners, I also plan breakfast and lunches with snacks in between. We are set all day, everyday, with healthy options. I feel like I am eating all the time, so I never feel like I am starving myself!

*Healthier food choices have included: low fat, whole grains, less sugar, less alcohol, less eating-out, and smaller portions. It sounds simple...but it is hard to give up those bad habits.

*I now make time for exercise. Mon. Wed. Fri. are my nights to go to Curves. I get out of the house and spend about 45 minutes with adults! It has really been good for my body as well as my sanity! I also try to get out with Evan everyday for our walk around the neighborhood ending with some fun at the park. Sometimes our good friends Lauren and little Memphis go with us, then it does not even feel like exercise! This week I would also like to add another activity on Tues. and Thurs. (my off days from Curves). Yoga/treadmill perhaps!

One of my biggest changes is in my mind. I try not to beat myself up if I have a bad day, or a few bad days. I just remind myself I can get right back on track and do better the next day or the next week! So far so good... on to the next goal!