I am losing it

Pounds, that is!

Since mid-December I have lost 6 pounds. HOORAY! I did it by simply changing my eating habits. I mentioned in a previous post that I've been choosing fruit and veggies over cereal, etc. I also started eating oatmeal every day for breakfast. I think that's what really helped. More fiber = less bloat.

It's crazy but it literally felt like one day I weighed 138 and the next I was 134. It happened so fast. Of course, once I lost the initial 4 pounds I started trying harder to keep the weight off. That's when I really got back in to my Weight Watchers mentality of the good old "Give and Take" as I call it. I will never forget the WW meeting Leader saying "Can't live without cheese on that sandwich? That is fine. Just get mustard instead of mayo and load it with veggies." That give-and-take lesson consumed my WW journey and I've picked up the habit again.

My husband has also asked for my help in improving his eating habits which is going to also help me in the long run. Since I have to set an example for him, it means I have to make the right food choices.

I am a little concerned with our upcoming vacation because my husband often thinks "vacation calories" don't count. I've warned him that I will be harsh with him and until he learns how to make good choices on his own, he has to run his meals past me. I know that seems a little controlling but he asked me to do it that way.

I'll report back next week about how we did. Send good thoughts my way - about weight loss and surviving a week long trip with the in-laws ;)

Looking ahead

With the New Year right around the corner, I've started reflecting on 2011 and looking ahead to 2012. I've already got a few resolutions and would like to share them with you.

1. See the eye doctor and dentist. I've never, ever been to the eye doctor and I haven't been to the dentist in well over ten years. I always hear that these two doctors are the most expensive in terms of their "cures", which explains why I avoid them. But I pay for vision and dental insurance so why not make an appointment and just make sure everything is A-OK?

2. Along the lines of numero uno, I have some lingering foot problems and I need to get to the podiatrist to get them checked out. I'm not looking forward to this one!

3. Continue making better food choices. I've lost 4 pounds this month (YAY!) just by making simple changes to my diet. I fill up on whole grains, like oatmeal or brown rice. If I'm hungry after dinner, I reach for apple sauce instead of cereal or candy. I snack on fresh veggies rather than chips. It's simple, common sense stuff but hey! It's working.

4. Be more optimistic. Ugh...this one is going to be hard. I'm a hardcore pessimist. My first challenge for being optimistic will be the annual ski trip to Michigan with my in-laws. Wish me luck!

So these are my goals for the new year. I would love to hear about yours!