Really? Has it been that long?

Funny thing, I just had a reader point out that it's been FIVE WEEKS since I've had a "back slide." I'm beside myself giddy about that.

So I guess to even things out I had three Toll House Eater Cookies tonight...a planned splurge! I couldn't disappoint my baby girl. After all she made these especially for me. I don't even really know how to describe "what's working for me" or how it's working for me, but I think I'm going to give it a shot.

The other night I had a great chat with my December Mama friend and Weight Loss Journey Motivator, Alison. (BTW, she's new to blogging; just started her blog - so hop over there and send her some happy weight loss dust.) Back to my story...

Alison & I were chatting and she asked me, what "it" was that is "working for me." I pondered a bit and then it dawned on me. I really and truly have made a life style change commitment, almost without even realizing I had done it. In the past I always thought it would be this be all end all, hardest thing ever in my life to do. But now looking at it, I made conscious effort and have stuck with it.

So some of the things I pointed out to her that I've added to my nutrition are: Tofu (in my smoothies of course), Morningstar Breakfast products (mmmm veggie bacon/patties), Whole Grain/Whole Wheat Pasta, a LOT more whole grains in general, my beloved FiberOne bars, Laughing Cow Cheese, Sensible Portion Pita Bites, Hummus, Egg Beaters, a TON more fresh fruits, a LOT more vegetables. I also try to get at least 64oz of water a day, which is very easy for me as I seem to crave water.

Things I've tried to cut out: Pop, empty carbs, excess added sugars, non-lean meat, eating out ALL THE TIME, snacking on "crap", and eating when I'm not truly hungry.

In essence, I didn't really realize that I was doing all of this, it just gradually started happening as I started added healthier food items to my diet. Do I still splurge? Yes. Sometimes unintentional, but for the most part I make planned splurges. Do I set out to eat healthy foods? Yes. I look at labels closer, pay attention to how much a serving is and how many calories for that portion. Then I ask myself, is it worth it? I really have to force myself to pose these questions late at night when I'm alone and looking for "comfort" in the fridge.

The biggest change truly has been portion control. I know every persons situation is different, but for me it's all about counting the calories and ensuring I'm only eating the appropriate portion. I never really realized how much I was overeating and I think that's the biggest factor that has gotten me thus far with as little exercise as I manage to get it.

It's still a struggle, but it's a battle I'm not willing to give up on. And that's something coming from someone who's given up countless times over the past 15 years. I just want to say a big thank you to my wonderful support system out there on the web. You need to understand just how much your comments inspire me to keep going.