Friday, September 11, 2009

Light Bulb Moments

The REAL decision to change came several years ago. In my mind I have always thought "I'll lose the weight by 35"...mainly because 30 came and went, and the weight didn't go! So, around late August of 2007 I decided it was indeed time for change!

As a smoker of 13-14 years...I knew I needed to tackle that demon before I could ever deal with the eating habits. I had tried many times and failed but I REALLY wanted to quit for ME this time. I took Chantix the first 3 months to get over the initial hurdle and withdrawals, I never once cheated or snuck a cigarette.

Although I'd been smoke-free for well over a year I knew my next challenge was going to be MUCH different. There would be no drug to take the cravings of food away. I couldn't just stop eating like I did with smoking and walk away...I have to play with this food demon each and every day.

In June of 2009 I knew it was time...as 35 was quickly approaching, my kids aren't getting any younger and I'm not getting any thinner! The time for a major overhaul of my eating habits and lifestyle was upon me. As I began to mentally prepare myself, I shared my plan with friends. As a result, a local scrapbooking group I run decided to start a biggest loser challenge. Each member committed $20 towards the prize. There were 11 of us, and I won the 4 month challenge Sept. 1st by loosing 12% during the competition (my closest competitor was at a 6% loss) and receiving the $200 prize!

It has been awesome to have friends along for this journey. They have enjoy working together and supporting each other so much, we have now started a round 2 of the Biggest Loser challenge that will end in December.

I am strong when I set my mind to something, I've always been that way. Eating is so different than most bad habits, since we must eat it is a real struggle of choices and balance.

3 comments:

  1. Angie: awww thanks so much for your sweet comment. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment :)

    Quitting smoking is no easy task (even with the aid of a drug). If you can do that, you can most definitely succeed in anything you choose!

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  2. Good job on winning your weight loss challenge!

    Having these goals is a great way to stay focused and on track. Joining in this blog community is helpful too for encouragement.

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  3. Go Girl! Great job quitting smoking and now losing weight! Keep up the awesome work!
    Bethany

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