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Dana's Diary: And the battle continues

by Dana Tjosvold

I'm winning the small battles, and hoping to eventually win the war. I've lost 7 pounds over the last three weeks — a total of 29 lbs.

I've finally given up (for the most part) on anyone, other than myself, validating my weight loss. I really had become so preoccupied with someone else noticing my progress, that I was forgetting to acknowledge my progress to myself. After all, these same people didn't come to me and say, "Gee, haven't you been gaining weight" when it was obvious I had, so why should I expect the opposite reaction now?

It is essential that I recognize my hard work and determination ... it would be appreciated if someone else did. That is the difference.

I've "temporarily" fallen off of the exercise wagon, and am really having to pay attention to the basics again. Just when I thought portion control and lots of water had become habit, I find myself doing each of these things less than I was a month ago. I am hoping to get back on track by the end of March, and allowing myself a little bit of flexibility right now. I think I am to a point where a few days of not being diligent doesn't add up to a complete failure. I have some personal issues (unrelated to food) that need to be addressed and resolved before I can focus 100 percent on the food issues again. Until then, I have promised to be kind to myself.

The good news is I finally got up enough nerve to buy some new clothes, and yes, they are a size smaller. I really am glad that I waited. The new size 20's fit well, not too tight, and the process has really increased my self-esteem. By golly, I can do this!!!

Useful Web sites:

The USDA Food Guide has links to all of the food pyramid information, including an interactive food pyramid and portion size information.

The Calorie Calculator allows you to calculate how many calories are required to maintain your current weight, as well as how many calories are required to maintain your ideal weight.

Another version of the Calorie Calculator estimates your ideal weight and calorie requirements automatically.

Dana Tjosvold is the single mother of Cameron. A technologist by profession, she is always creative and searching for "new and improved" ways of living life to its fullest on a budget!