Better choices. Clearer thinking.

Better choices. Clearer thinking. These are my goals going forward.

I still have a little trouble with the late night ice cream, but I'm doing much better with my daytime choices. Fresh fruit, in a variety of species; fresh vegetables, in a variety of colors; limited red meat; controlled portions. No candy snacks!

I'm currently down to 251.6 (as of this morning), which is actually a pretty dismal first-two-week loss - 1.4 pounds. Bleagh. We'll see what happens after some.. er... cyclical water weight ...er...dissipates (evaporates?) during the next week or so.

Anyhow, I'm definitely keeping my focus, I know what I want. I want good health, and I have to be as close as possible to a normal weight in order to be healthy. I want to be FABULOUS!

Now comes the part where some people will have a little trouble: Yes, I am relying on my faith to help me through this. Yes, I believe in a Higher Power, whom I call God (and Heavenly Father). I am NOT into the 12-step programs, but I do believe that I am unable to move forward on my own. I DO believe that I have to do most of the work. God expects me to help him out, not just lay around and whimper, "I can't do it alone! Help me, help me!" P'shaw.

So, for my part, I'm staying focused. I'm praying for guidance and strength. I'm praying for my "mindset" to change to healthier habits. And I'll be accountable to God - praying in the morning for help throughout the day, then back on my knees to pray at night to give thanks for His help and to report to him how it all went. Yes, yes, I know He knows. But it's important for me to report back.

It's all about accountability, as discussed here:

http://weightloss.suite101.com/article.cfm/seek_support

The Purpose of a Circle of Support

The main reason to enlist help in your weight loss journey is to find accountability. It often helps just to have to answer to someone else about your food, exercise and weight loss. Emotionally, it helps to have someone who you can relate to and vice-versa. It's also helpful knowing that someone is rooting for you and is there for you whenever you have a triumph or a weak moment.

Tomorrow morning, I'm starting my walking routine. Up at 5:00 a.m. to get in 30 minutes of walking before I have to start the daily grind. I've done walking before, and it really is a great way to wake up. Fresh, crisp morning air, nice chilly temps, no one around to get in your way with their dogs and their grocery carts.

Onward!