Day 42

Yesterday, I sat everyone down then had a long talk with both of my daughter's and my husband. I told them that there are certain days during my journey that I feel really strong, but there are other days when I feel extremely weak. I explained that it's times like that, that I'm at my most vulnerable. I told them that unlike the other times that I've 'dieted' in the past and failed miserably, this change in my eating habits today, is for the rest of my life. I asked for their help in beating this addiction.

I received some really great ideas from my blogger friend's and I truly appreciate everyone's advice. I told my family that for the time being, I wouldn't be able to cook some of their favorites because they are trigger foods for me and cause me to binge... thanks Gwen. I also told them that we'll be eating a little different during holiday's and special occasions until I am mentally and physically able to resist them. Once I can get this compulsive eating under control, I can gradually start to make those foods again.

I decided to make a list of all of the foods that I need to stay away from, too... thanks Linda. It's hanging smack in front of the refrigerator where I'll see it every time I open those doors... and the best thing is that it's a reminder for my family, too. I'm sure this list is going to get a lot longer, so every time I think of something else, I'll simply add it on.

You know, I love reading about people that finally conquered their weight loss battle. Even though I've never met any of these people, sometimes it just brings tears to my eyes because their stories are so inspiring. They all have these big smiles on their faces in their after pictures because they did it! These wonderful men and woman didn't have a magic diet pill or possess some special ability that the rest of us were born without. These are people just like you and me who were determined to end the constant abuse to their bodies and if they can beat their addiction then so can I. Do you hear that addiction??? You're going down!!! I know that sounds crazy since I just lost control a couple of days ago, but I'm learning and that makes me stronger.

Inspiration picture: April Dixon lost 135 pounds (Sparkpeople.com story)



April's before weight was 260 pounds. Her interview is below.


How I Gained It: I had always been overweight throughout my childhood. I was over 100 pounds when I was five years old. The students at school would tease me because of my weight. I would be embarrassed to go out in public because I was paranoid of what others thought of me. I always turned to food for comfort. Food was my best friend that I could always depend on. I used to eat a lot of fast food. Breakfast was my favorite meal. I was over 200 pounds at the age of 10. One day when I was 16 I looked in the mirror and cried. I felt so disgusted because I had allowed myself to get so big. I made a decision to do something about my weight.
How I Lost It: Every day, I walked five miles on the treadmill. I changed my eating habits by taking only small portions of food. For breakfast, I would eat old-fashioned oatmeal without sugar or butter, with two slices of bacon and fruit such as peaches, apples, grapes and bananas. For lunch, I would eat grilled chicken salads and fruit. For dinner, I would eat steamed vegetables, grilled chicken and salads. The only fluid I would drink was water. I continued to exercise every day and sometimes changed my exercise routine. I would do 30 to 45 minutes of aerobic videos, and every week or two, I would weigh myself. Sometimes I would lose five pounds in a week, sometimes more. I had to buy a new wardrobe. I joined a fitness club, and worked out there three days a week lifting weights, running on the treadmill, doing sit-ups and push ups and using the bicycles.
I entered into my senior year in high school 135 pounds lighter! I went from a size 22 to a size six. I've lost 28 inches off my waist and 22 inches off my hips and thighs.I entered into my senior year in high school 135 pounds lighter! There are times when I crave for certain foods, but I learn to control my eating habits. I have kept the weight off for eight years now, and I continue to exercise three days a week.

After picture: April at 125 pounds



Daily Food Journal:
Breakfast: Special K with berries, decaf
Lunch: Roasted garlic hummus on multi grain with lettuce and tomatoes, 1 apple
Snack: fresh strawberries
Dinner: 1 veggie burger (no bun or cheese), 10 almonds and a side of collard greens

Notes: I worked out for a full hour at the gym tonight and all I can say is, aaaahhhh... I needed that. I had the gym to myself again, so I got to watch whatever I wanted on TV.

They had a Walking Dead marathon on all weekend long on AMC, so I just watched that while I was there. Overall, today went well.

STRONG is what happens when you run out of WEAK!