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Introduction Text Spoiler alert: the following is from way back when I was successful. I'm not taking it down. I'm going to use it to get me back to my best self. I DID IT, and I CAN DO IT AGAIN. In the spring of 2014 I created a new user name and a new Spark People account; I started over with the goal of getting healthier and more fit. I've been on a couple of "successful" diets before (losing 65 and later 40 pounds) but haven't been able to keep it off. I'm not "dieting" this time; I AM tracking my food and making more healthful choices. I'm making slower, smaller changes with the intent to keep it off, and it really does feel very different this time around. I am also fortunate to have a WONDERFUL OB/Gyn who's following my progress; I couldn't wish for a better mentor for accountability and non-judgmental goal setting. It is NEVER too late for a Do-Over!!! I was living proof, and will be again!

Ultimately I'd like to lose about 100 lbs [DONE once, but working on it again...], but my goal right now (was) to go from 266 to 250 per my OB/Gyn. [edit: done, and I haven't gone back all the way up to my starting weight. I hope I NEVER do; next goal for 2020: 240] I want to be healthier [I DID], to fit comfortably into seats in theaters, roller coasters and airplanes [I COULD], and never have to worry that I'll need a seat belt extender [I WON'T]. I want to shop for clothing in the Ladies' section [I DID]. I want to order clothes and bathing suits online [OK, so not bathing suits...]. I want to participate in things WITH my family, not near them. I want to make my family proud.

This is important: **I eat whatever I want, I just budget the quantity and calories.** I track all of my foods while allowing myself occasional off-plan indulgences. We plan ahead and shop ahead whenever possible. I target total calories over everything else, but try to stay balanced (50%Carb / 30%Fat / 20%Protein). I eat out a LOT but with planning I stay on track. I was going to the gym 4-5d/w for a short 30-min elliptical, rowing or treadmill workout and did 10 mins of strength work 2-3 d/w. I also hiked, played racquetball and also dabbled in other fun stuff.

I'm from the Virginia Beach area currently living in Phoenix, AZ. I've been happily married for nearly 30 years and we have a wonderful, studious, articulate, polite, empathetic and all-around-terrific young lady (I used to have "teenaged girl" here but she's off to college now!) On 5/29/15 I reached my -90# goal AND was honored to be selected as a SparkPeople Motivator the same day. Thank you!!! I've regained a huge portion of the weight I'd lost, so I'm really reaffirming myself to check off all those goals once more. Never give up, Never surrender.

My favorite quote has always been "Stupidity Should Be Painful", but I've coined a new one all my own to live by: "I can't get there from anywhere but here". My newest one: "Failure is a bruise, not a tattoo." ~Timber Hawkeye (Buddhist Bootcamp)

Add a Link "I can't get there from anywhere but here." Next Landmarks/Goals: [ ] Back into the 240's (I told you I'd gained a huge portion back) [ ] Back into the 220's [ ] Back into the 200's [ ] Back to Onederland [ ] Someday/bucket list goal: hike to Havasupai Falls (and out again...)
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