Sometimes, I get so focused on work, or the current home improvement, or my weight loss goals, that I often forget what I've accomplished along the way.  So, today, I wanted to take a few moments and write down all the things I have accomplished so far this year relating to my surgery and weight loss.

I have lost 80+ pounds.  WOW, that is THE big one!  I have a new tool that has helped me, and I continue to use the tool effectively.  I have learned that when I eat too fast, or too much, I don't feel well.  And I really don't like that feeling. 


I also learned that hiccups are the first key indicator that I'm heading down that bad path, and if I realize it early enough I don't make myself ill. 

I have dropped five clothing sizes.  WOW, and now I need to buy some clothes! LOL

I have lowered my blood pressure (which wasn't that high, but it was starting to inch up there), I have lowered my bad cholesterol, and increased my good cholesterol.  I have learned what the CRP or C-Reactive Protein test is/does.  My High C-Reactive Protein isn't anything to worry about right now since all my other indicators/numbers are lower according to my doctor.  I will be keeping an eye on it however. ;)

I have learned how good it makes me feel when I exercise.  My muscles are happy when they are stretched and worked.  My stress goes down when I work out too.  I RAN! Ok, Jogged, up to 11 minutes too... I haven't run since high school and it was pretty cool. 

I have participated in a 5K!!!  (I ran a very little bit, but I still did it and finished!!)  I also learned that having a goal (like a 5K) helps me stick to my work out routines when I have to train for the goal.

I have learned how to buy less groceries.  For example, just buy one zucchini instead of two or three.  I have also learned to use my card to buy off the kids menu at some family restaurants.

I have started working my way to a cleaner way of eating.  By using less packaged foods and more local, real foods.  Not 100% off the grocery store grid, but I'm keeping mostly to fresh fruits &  veggies and meat/fish.

I'm starting to cook more too!! or should that be, I'm learning to cook again! 

I have learned to appreciate protein shakes, and even more than that... I have learned to appreciate protein powder!

I have learned that I do not need anyones approval or affirmation of my weight loss and how great I look/feel.

I have learned to be positive (not just in the last six months, but boy has it paid off in the past six months!)  I no longer let that little voice in my head belittle me, or discourage me.  My little voice now tells me that I am a GODDESS and that I am BEAUTIFUL and that I can do anything I put my mind to (within reason! LOL)

I think being positive is underrated.  It is the best way to live.  So everyone, make lemonade when you get served some lemons!!  I also try my best to live in the present.  I try not to worry about things that haven't happened yet, and I try not to dwell on things in the past.  I am happy!

Hope everyone is too.  Don't forget to acknowledge what you've accomplished during your weigh loss journey.  It may be a long road, but its well worth the trip... just remember to stop and smell the roses along the way!! 

  I have learned that I like the smileys too! LOL

I noticed today that I have really fallen off the exercise routine.  Of course, I'm in the midst of putting down a laminate floor in my house, so maybe you can consider that exercise.  I am swinging a hammer and walking around and kneeling and then doing it all over again for the next board.  My house is such chaos that I think it has leaked over into my life.  All the more reason to get the dang floor done so I can get my house and my life back in order.  Isn't it funny how ONE thing can really upset the apple cart?  I am still losing weight, (YAY!) so that is good, but I'm sure I'd be doing it better (and faster) if I were exercising.

I was also thinking, maybe I need to sign up for another 5K.  Having that goal really kept me exercising.  I'm such an A type personality that I hate that I didn't get to follow the entire couch to 5K training schedule and this would give me a chance to do it all over again.  Yes, I think this is a great idea!!

I have finally cut my hair short, and have a new SASSY haircut that I just love, and I get ALOT of compliments.

I have had a few problems with eating.  I got sick last week from ketchup (which didn't happen before), but I felt much better after that.  I also have realized my biggest problem is eating too fast and not chewing enough.  Old habits sure die hard.  I suppose if I was more mindful of my eating, I wouldn't have needed the surgery in the first place, but now that its come to my attention (again!) I need to keep focused on it and eat correctly.

For the most part I'm still happy and cheerful and living a positve life... guess I'm just having a few bumps in the road... Time to repave!!! ;)