Just keep swimming!!

Well, I am sticking to the diet this time... at least I have now for 3 weeks... That in and of itself is a big accomplishment for me. I don't think I've ever stuck with any diet for this long... but that is not accomplishment that I am here to report today... I have been hovering at just over 220lbs for over a week now... fluctuating all the way down to 220.8 several times but just couldn't seem to go any lower and I've been very frustrated... I couldn't wait to lose just one more pound and finally be below 220..... well, it took awhile but I MADE IT!!! When I weighed this morning I had dropped down to 218.8!! All I can think to say is I'M SO EXCITED!! I know, that's not exactly an original statement... but it is an accurate one. I want to celebrate in someway... but how? I can't think of an appropriate way to celebrate without food and without making the people around me think I've lost my mind... so, I guess I'll just sit here quietly and do the happy dance in my mind. I want to call everyone I know and tell them.... I woke my husband up at 6:30am to tell him... he tried to be happy for me but I could tell, he was just trying to find the quickest path back to sleep. I would have felt the same if he woke me up for something like that.

Last time I tried this diet, I was at 218...exactly where I am now when I gave up. There is a difference this time... first, 218 is more significant because I started at a higher weight this time so I had to work harder to lose more to get here. Also, my biggest challenge with any diet has been drinks... I love to drink!! Coke and Pepsi have always been a downfall. Last time, I worked at a place that provided free fountain sodas all day long. This time, I am not in that environment and I have a secret weapon to satisfy my drink cravings. It's Red Diamond Sugar Free Tea made with Splenda, it can be found in the refridgerated area of Wal-mart. It is sold by the gallon and by the 16oz bottle so it's portable, just like soda. If I didn't read it on the label I would never have believed that it was sugar free. It has no calories, no carbs, and it's YUMMY!! I still have one constant challenge.. Sonic!! It's the place where I feel the most temptation.... the coke, the mocha java chiller, frito chili pie, extra long cheese coney... none of these things that I love from Sonic are low carb and it seems like there is a Sonic on every corner. I realized early on, my will power isn't strong enough to go to sonic alone... I avoid it at all costs if I don't have someone with me to hold me accountable. Last night, we stopped at Sonic on a car trip... I ordered a burger and pulled off the bread... even that was risky b/c I definately had cravings while I sat and looked at the menu while we waited. So it seems that I've identified my biggest problem areas and found solutions.... Drink Red Diamond Tea and avoid Sonic!

My next milestone goal is 215lbs... wish me luck!