Monday, January 23, 2012

A to C....

I tend to be the type of person who wants to get from point A to point C without having to deal with everything in between, especially when it comes to weight loss. I've looked for the "easy" way out, contemplated weight loss surgery, liposuction, tried Jenny Craig, NutriSystem, and everything in-between - I've wanted a quick fix. But, I'm learning that with this point of view, I'm missing out, or not dealing with the day to day things that might get in my way.

For example, over the past 23 days I've really had to evaluate my eating and exercise patterns, deal with them, adjust them, appreciate what the benefits are and learn to make them part of my daily routine. It's the "in between" stuff that makes a difference, that establishes a routine, and eventually becomes "normal". It is no longer an obstacle to overcome, but a guide and constant companion that helps me on the path to long-lasting success.

I'm feeling good, noticing some subtle changes in the way my clothes fit and have certainly made some positive lifestyle changes. The pedometer and my goal of 10,000 steps a day has been a great help. I'm walking during lunch rather than sitting in the staff room, taking a quick walk around the neighborhood after dinner, spending an hour in the gym on the treadmill and elliptical to get those 10,000 steps in - and it feels good - except for my knee.

About a month ago, right before starting this adventure, my right knee swelled and I lost strength and mobility. Went to the doctor whose diagnosis was a Baker's cyst. X-rays also showed mild arthritis in my knee and swelling under the knee cap. It hurts, is frustrating, but I'm working my way through it and not letting it slow me down. Hoping it decides to cooperate sooner rather than later so I can push just myself a little harder.

Found a few more recipes that I've enjoyed and I've started a list of my "favorite" foods (see column on right). I also highly recommend MyFitnessPal. It has been a fabulous tool for tracking food and exercise on a daily basis, and you can view and comment on your friends daily food and activity journal. Best of all - it's FREE! Check it out!

I'm actually excited about my weigh-in next week. Curious to see how much weight I've lost, what my BMI is now, and how many inches I've lost. I'll be sure to post results as soon as I have them.

More later!

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