After two years of running, I finally summoned the courage to run my first race! The race was held in a neighboring town, which just so happens to be home to the park where I usually run. I figured I'd start somewhere I'm comfortable, because despite my oh-so-cool, "it's no big deal" facade, … [Read more...]
Seeing Yourself as Others Do
One of the (many) things about myself that I've been trying to "work on" lately is my inability to accept a compliment. From the "you look amazing!" screeches from friends and family when I started losing weight to the occassional compliments I receive on my wardrobe, I have never been able to … [Read more...]
My Inner Battle with Obesity
It's no secret to anyone here that losing "the final 40" has proven a challenge that I have not yet been able to conquer. Granted, I now have my sights set on the "final 30," but completing my weight loss journey is a goal that has continued to elude me...for nearly three years now. I continually … [Read more...]
When Life Gets in the Way
Contrary to popular belief, my life doesn't revolve around weight loss. While my newfound commitment to healthy eating and exercise has radically transformed the way I live my life, there are times when work, family, friends, vacations, sleep, special occasions, and a long list of other … [Read more...]
Worthy of Weight Loss
Anyone who has ever carried around more than, say, five or 10 extra pounds knows that years of hiding behind excess weight can take a huge toll on your psyche. Tune in for just one episode of The Biggest Loser and it becomes abundantly clear that there's a reason why these folks have ballooned to … [Read more...]
What it Means to Eat “Healthy”
In the last couple of months, I've had to completely re-learn what it means to eat "healthy" foods. I've realized that for the past three years I've been in the dark -- like many Americans -- when it comes to the true meaning of labels like "organic" and "natural," and how to determine whether or … [Read more...]
Taking the First Step
When talking to friends, family, and other acquaintances, as soon as the subject of weight loss comes up -- which, I must say, happens almost daily in my life -- I'm usually faced with the following confessions: "My jeans are tight." "I haven't been to the gym in weeks." "I eat too much … [Read more...]
Become Your Own Cheerleader
When I first started losing weight, the compliments just kept on comin'. Friends and family -- especially the ones who don't see me every day -- were constantly making a fuss about my shrinking body, showering me with "you look so great!" compliments and incredulously questioning: "how much weight … [Read more...]
The Winds of Change
(I thought this title was appropriate given the 55 mph gusts we're experiencing here in New Jersey this morning). Thanks to my efforts to acknowledge (and face) my fears, I've finally started making some changes that -- believe it or not -- may actually be making the scale move! I'm proud to report … [Read more...]
Fighting Fear
In the last couple of weeks, I've started to realize just how much fear has been holding me back. In my weight loss, in my career, in my relationships...in my life in general. Last night I earned my orange belt in Muy Thai kickboxing. For two weeks I fretted about not being able to remember the … [Read more...]