Week 6

On top of the slick rocks, Moab, Utah

How could I stay on my health plan without becoming an imposition to my friends and feel like a party pooper?

I was traveling last week. A much needed vacation from work and life responsibilities. A trip to Moab, Utah, with friends seemed to be the perfect prescription for refreshment. A week of good weather, trail riding in off-road vehicles, and the fellowship of friends, what more could you ask for?

I did however, have one concern: How could I maintain my health plan? I mean really, they're all going to want to go out to eat. As a vegetarian, I've discovered dining out is a challenge on my health plan--unless we're talking breakfast. There are travel days. Could I get my meals in like I'm supposed to? How could I stay on my health plan without becoming an imposition to my friends and feel like a party pooper?

After talking with my health coach, I decided that I still have to live. Going out to a pizza place wasn't going to be the end of my diet for me. Mexican food wasn't going to do me in. I decided that I wouldn't let whatever came up to stand in my way of having a good time. I wasn't going to feel guilty for my choices either. I was going to live my life to fullest for the week I was playing in Moab. And that's what I did.

Yes, we went to Zax--a pizza buffet that makes it how you want it. Did I want the pizza? Yes I did. But I want my health and to continue to feel good. My health coach told me I could probably have a slice or two of pizza and still lose weight for the week. So I decided I would eat two slices of pizza that night. I don't have to have a whole pizza anymore to feel satisfied. But when it came right down to it, I sat down at the table and ordered a salad instead. I didn't eat even one slice of pizza, because I've discovered I like getting up from the table and not feeling like I've overeaten, slightly uncomfortable, or needing to loosen the belt. 

I got my protein. I stayed balanced. And most importantly, I stayed within the range of my health plan.

Which is why I write. I realized I didn't feel like I was missing out on anything. Because instead, I'm gaining so much more. I feel better about myself. Instead of loosening the belt, I'm tightening it up. In fact, three weeks ago I bought a new, smaller belt, with three extra notches in it. As of this writing, I only have one notch left before I need another, smaller one! I have clothes in my closet I can wear again. A suit I haven't been able to wear in years, I'm wearing this weekend--and it fits great!

No, I'm not missing out on anything because I'm gaining so much more. And the best part for me was the encouragement I got from my friends. I discovered that far from being a party pooper, they considered my story inspirational and were "watching out" for me. 

WEEK 6 RESULTS

Total Weight Loss: 43.1 pounds
Total Loss in Waist: 9"