I Lost 20 Pounds!!!

That’s right! And I learned that it’s all about choices and exercise. I know no one wants to hear that, but…

Seems like each decade my “resting weight” goes up about 10 lbs. I was happy with where I was in my 20s and most of my 30s. But over the last 2 years of my 30s, everything went downhill. Part of the downhill is that I moved home to Texas–where all food is fantastic but extremely fattening. Another, bigger part is I started working from home, sitting for long periods of time. Within 3 months of moving home, I put on 20 lbs. (a very big deal on a 5’2″ frame).

Over the last two years, I tried several diets which had worked in the past. Zero results. And I mean zero. So darn frustrating. I figured this was just my metabolism slowing since I was nearing 40. I had honestly come to the conclusion that this was the weight I’d be in my 40s (because I like food), but starting in March decided to try one last ditch effort. I made two major changes…

First, I went on Weight Watchers. I had tried the system before in my 30s, and it didn’t work for me. However, they claimed to have changed their formula, so I figured worth another shot. I’ve never been able to maintain a diet for more than about 4 weeks. Imagine my surprise when, 3 months later, I’m still happily going. I don’t feel starved or deprived. This is a lifestyle change more than a diet. Apparently even 40-year-olds who think they already know better can learn thing or two.

Second, I bought a treadmill desk. Every day I spend my writing time walking at a very slow pace. I do get motion sick easily, but this doesn’t bother me. I walk a total of 2 hours a day–usually between 4 and 5 miles. I’ve added some hand weights to the mix on Fridays. But that’s it. Walking. Lots of it. 6-7 days a week of it. (I will admit my feet have protested the pounding. So now I’m trying more supportive shoes, icing, and yoga to give them a periodic break. You try to get healthy, sheesh!)

Today, 3 months later, I hit my goal weight loss of 20 pounds!!! That’s 3″ from my waist, 3.5″ from my hips, 2.5″ from each thigh, 2″ from each arm, and 4″ from my bust.

I honestly thought I’d never see this weight again, and yet here I am. It’s working so well, and has been so relatively easy, I’ve decided to give it another month or two and see if I can lose another 5-7 lbs. A feat which would get me down to a weight I haven’t seen in 10 years (since before my babies were born). After that, I have every intention of going into maintenance mode–continuing the walking and sticking to weight watchers to keep my weight where where I feel healthy.

So hooray! I know this had little to do with writing, but I just had to share!

On the left is me in March after I’d already lost 5 lbs. On the right is me now. You can see the difference in my face.