That's because I’ve lost 60 pounds over the last 8 months!
I know this isn't about jewelry making, but the sun is out, spring has sprung, I’m feeling in a celebratory mood and want to share my success story with you...
Last September, on my 59th birthday, I decided it was time to harness my willpower and finally do something about the extra 83 pounds I had been hauling around over the last decade. There were dozens of attempts made over the years but the stress of the "married-with-children-work-a-day-life" made it a very steep climb. I liked my wine and food (a little too much) but they served their purpose over the last decade. And now, with my youngest daughter having just left for college last September, I was ready to take control over my pantry and fridge and I got down to business.
How did I do it?
The short story is that I’ve given up sugar and flour, I eat 3 flavor-packed, yummy meals a day (no snacking between meals) and I weigh my food so that my portions are measured and consistent. Those are the nuts and bolts but you know there’s always more to it. Like, how do I manage hunger and cravings, how do I stay prepared and focused over the long haul, how do I manage that saboteur brain, how do I eat out with friends, etc. Along the way I have discovered many good answers to these challenges but they're more than I can write about here. If you're interested in knowing more, please don't hesitate to contact me. I have some tricks up my sleeve.
Admittedly, the first 2 weeks were challenging, mainly because breaking up with sugar and flour is hard to do. A mix of finding the best and yummiest recipes, being prepared, (which actually saves time and money) I rarely feel deprived. And after just 2 weeks my taste buds made the adjustment, my brain stopped craving those highly processed poisons and new and healthier habits started to emerge. Like anything, the beginning is hard but the more you do it, the easier it gets. It really does.
That’s not to say it’s always smooth sailing either. What helped me was knowing that next September I will turn a whopping 60 (gasp!) and if there was ever a midlife crisis unfolding, this extra weight exacerbated it. When I turn 60, I want to feel really good about it. It’s a goal that I keep my eye on when I’m feeling vulnerable and I renew all the reasons I began this climb. I suck it up in those diminishing moments of temptation, each and every day, and I just keep going. I still have about 20 pounds to go but I’m going to reach my goal.
And I really do look different!
So, next time you see me — and I hope to see you at an upcoming show in the near future, check my events page for details — feel free to give me a high-five!
All my best wishes to you and yours,
Nancy