My Weight Loss Journey

Eleven weeks ago, I started on a weight loss / get healthy journey.  I was sick and tired of being sick and tired.  I had little control over some areas of my life which continually made me unhappy.  I was depressed.  I needed to do something for me.  Food had become a comfort for me these last four years.  It has been a roller-coaster of a ride.

November 7, 2009, I started my journey at a 195 pounds and 38.8% body fat.  I joined Jillian Michael's online program.  Everyday, I was given a workout routine and meal plan.  I didn't follow the meal plan precisely, especially cooking for a family of seven.  I did count my calories.  I counted my carbs, protein, and fat.  Having the right balance of those helped me feel full for four hours at a time.  And yes, I did have some chocolate at times; worked into my calorie allowance.  Counting calories has been an educational experience.  I weighed all my food.  It's amazing what is considered a portion size.

 After four weeks of consistent exercise, I purchased a heart rate monitor.  (rewarding myself with something other than food)  I am a numbers person.  I like to see exactly how many calories I eat and how many calories I burn.  Simple math:  create a calorie deficit leads to losing weight.  It hasn't been easy, but it has been worth it.

As of today, I have lost 25 pounds!  My % body fat is at 32.0% down 6.8%.  I have lost over 5 inches in my waist and 4 inches in my hips.  I am down two sizes in my jeans.  I can see my ribs.  I exercise everyday except for the Lord's Day. 

I pray that I continue on this new lifestyle and never return to my previous lifestyle.  Yes, lifestyle.  I'm not on a diet.  I have a new lifestyle.

Follow my progress with the little tickers at the bottom of the blog.  I am getting close to my first weight loss goal; a realistic goal.  After I reach it, I will re-evaluate and make a new goal of more weight loss or changing my body composition (% body fat).