When I lost the weight, everyone that had known me for any length of time, didn’t even recognize me.  It was amazing!  I had a ton of questions like; How did you do it?  Did you starve yourself?  “Oh, I don’t have time to loose weight,” others would bemoan.  “You must have someone that takes care of your other responsibilities so that you can take care of yourself.” (HA! I wish! I have two kids and I own my own business.  I just make different choices.)

Truth is: losing weight and keeping it off is a daily struggle.  You have to want to be healthy MORE than you want a hot fudge ice cream cone with English toffee sprinkles.  You have to will yourself out of bed to exercise at least 30 minutes a day five days a week.  You have to resist the temptation to drive-thru for dinner even though it is easier. Easier is not always better, and you have to fight for what you want.

Go shopping for the basics I have suggested.  Starting this week, make a goal to cook at least 2 meals at home for dinner.  Eat oatmeal at least twice during a 7 day period (yes, the Starbucks version is just fine, if you have to have your drive-thru fix!).  Last, pack yourself some snacks that will not make you feel guilty; baby carrots with fat free sour cream to dip, red pepper slices and hummus, pita chips with salsa, or a low-fat yogurt.

Take small steps this week, and you will start to feel better.  And just for the record, I will post my weight loss as well.  You may reply to this post with your goal weight, how much you weigh now, and the steps you are taking to get your life on track.  Let’s get moving!

Goal weight: 145 lbs, right now; 158 lbs.