my journey.

March 23, 2009 I started a new weight loss journey. I know, I’ve said it before….but believe me, this time it’s different. I even surprised myself when I realized that this time it IS for real.

My realization came on Darren’s birthday, April 21^st. We were out to dinner and I had to really look at the menu and figure out what I could eat that would keep me under my 15 grams of fat maximum (I’ll explain that later). As I’m looking over the menu I think to myself “I can’t wait until I can order whatever I want without counting fat grams”. Later – as I’m eating – it hit me. I will NEVER be able to eat what I want. I’ve had a weight problem my entire life and that’s not going to change. So I need to change. This time I have. Here’s what I’m doing different.

1. I gave up candy – I haven’t had a Twizzler since day one, March 23^rd. That’s big for me. I like candy and I like sugar. (I do keep mini York Peppermint Patties in the freezer for emergencies - but I've only had a couple)
   

2. I no longer use sugar in my brewed coffee. I’m using Splenda along with fat-free creamer.

3. I drink water. Lots of water. I really don’t like it, but know it’s beneficial to my health and weight loss.

4. I gave up diet coke…at home☺ I still drink it when we go out, but at home it’s just water and coffee.

5. I don’t use butter or margarine. If I have toast for breakfast I use a small amount of peanut butter instead – it has the protein I need as well as the healthy fats I’m allowed.

6. I am no longer making myself 3 latte’s a day. Yes, I love my espresso machine and would drink 3 each day – but now I allow myself one, knowing the calories aren’t good – but the rest of the time it’s just brewed coffee. Yes, I do drink a lot of coffee – but after reading 1-5 I would think you could allow me my coffee without shaking any fingers at me! ♥

7. I’m taking Alli. On the Alli plan you can only have up to 15 grams of fat per meal. At first that was hard, but now I’m having a hard time getting enough. But with watching calories at the same time it can get confusing – it’s still something I’m working on but it is becoming easier every day. I’m learning what I can eat and how much and those are skills I need.

8. and here’s the kicker folks – I exercise! I bought a Jillian Michael’s DVD and I like it! In fact – my Mother’s Day present is 2 more of her video’s along with her book! I can’t believe one person has affected me so much! She’s the push I’ve needed.

Well, I’m down 8 pounds. No, it’s not much – but the best way to lose weight is to lose it slow. SOOO, if I keep at this pace I will be at my goal by March 23^rd of next year! With the support of my family, Darren especially, and my dearest friend, Kimmie (aka My Cheerleader), I know I can do it!

I’ve heard my daughter comment on my belly and butt on more than one occasion and that really hit home. I realized I needed to do something not only for myself, but for my kids. I am so strict about them eating healthy and playing outside for exercise that I must set a good example.

This is a life change – and I’m finally ready to make it. I wish I would’ve done this 20 pounds ago – or after Braden was born….would’ve made this task a lot easier! But – better late than never I hope.

If you’ve read this far – thank you. I just wanted to tell my story so my friends and family know where I’m at right now. I don’t want to be the fat sister – the fat daughter – or the fat mommy anymore.

I also know that you need a support team – so if anyone out there ever wants to talk – click on my email link on the side and drop me a line! I’m more than happy to listen!♥