*UPDATE: 4 month mark*

If I told you that today started out awesome, I'd be lying. Stress is a killer. I think sometimes I make my own stress up in my head, when I need to learn how to calm down and relax and let things go.

But I digress...

I started this blog on November 26, 2006 weighing 193 (not 191 like I thought) pounds.

And these were my measurements on that day:

Arms: 12"
Legs: 24"
Waist: 38"
Hips: 42"

I was very uncomfortable and had let my weight slowly creep up on me. I had lost 25 pounds and gained 28 back. I knew that something...anything...needed to be done. So I began to do my own version of Weight Watchers and then in January, I re-joined again with a new found committment to getting healthy. There are some health issues in my family, and I wanted to take preventative measures to ensure that I wouldn't be at risk for them, since most of them are linked to being overweight. I wanted to look good and feel great again. I looked at pictures of me at my smallest and I felt very attractive and content. Then I got cocky. And I ate, stopped going to meetings, and ate some more.

This time around will be different. I'm setting small goals for myself. I'm keeping track of what I eat, and exercising at least 3x's a week. I have motivation to continue on and keep it off. I'm showing more willpower, by refusing food that's not great for me and by cutting my portions into smaller sizes. I'm drinking lots more water and I'm taking better care of my body in general.

One of my best friends who has recently lost 66 pounds herself and I made a pact that we would do something nice for ourselves if we hit our goal. She has 1 more pound to go before she hits her lifetime goal. And today, my personal goal of weighing in under 180 lbs. was reached. I lost 4.6 pounds this week. Amy, we are SOOOOO getting manicures or massages next time you're in Albany.

Today, I weighed in at 177.6 pounds
and today's measurements are:

Arms: 11.5"
Legs: 22"
Waist: 34"
Hips: 39"

I've lost a total of 16 pounds and 9.5 inches off of my body since 11/26/06!

Just imagine a 16lbs turkey GONE from my body!!!!

Here is a visual aid, in case you need help:





My new goal? Since I have 7 pounds to go before I hit my 10% weight loss, I'm hoping to be rid of those 7 pounds by the time classes are over in May. I'm allowing myself all of April to work hard.