Things I’ve Learned September 15, 2009

Current Goal:  299

Current Struggle:  Exercise

Current Weight:  306

Current Mood:  Confident

I’m happy to say that I am back on track.  When I weighed last week, I had lost all of the weight I gained during that period when I lost my mind, and had also lost another pound.  I had an appointment with Julie (Nutritionist at Emory) and she helped me see that I am making progress toward exercising.  I have moved from the “not ready” stage to the “planning” stage (my words, but you get the drift).  She also helped me understand that I might not be motivated by the yoga DVD’s because they were just plain old boring.  We found another yoga instructor whose workouts are outdoors with beautiful scenery and cool, zen music.  I am going see if I can check out a couple of his videos from the library.  We also looked at his workouts on U-Tube.  It’s a great site to “trial” workout videos that I might be interested in.  I spent this past weekend with an old friend and discovered Wii Fit.  What fun!!  I was surprised that it actually gave me a good workout.  It probably wouldn’t do much for someone that is really fit, but I want to get it as it is something I know I can do.  Another great way to get me moving.

I also want to begin listing a few things that I’ve learned so far in this Challenge.  Perhaps some of my insights will help someone who is struggling with weight:

1.  I’ve learned that I am not too old to lose weight.  I’ll be 54 on my birthday later this week.  When I started the Challenge, I was concerned that my age might hinder my weight loss.  What I know today is that as long as I eat healthy, balanced meals, the weight  comes off.

2.  My eyes are almost ALWAYS bigger than my stomach.  I need much less food than I ever thought I could get by with.

3.  It is  possible to have a GREAT sandwich without mayo and cheese.

4.   It is possible to have a GREAT salad without ranch dressing and meat as the protein.

5.  Including fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, apples and oranges in a salad is a really good way to ensure I get my servings of fruits and vegetables each day.

6.  Taking 15 extra minutes in the morning to eat a balanced, complete breakfast (rather than pouring a pouch of instant oatmeal in a cup of hot water at work) is well worth the time.

I am feeling confident that I am going to meet my goals.  In the end, it’s all about choices.  And, after all, this is MY year!!