A Small Miracle

It's been a week and 1/2 for me this week. My editing business is generating plenty to do, and my freelance work is rushing toward a deadline. I climbed from bed a little earlier than usual--4:37. I sat at the computer sipping water for about an hour and a half before I realized that I'd forgotten to weigh in. What a miracle. Me--a reformed scale addict!

I glanced at my water knowing I'd probably weigh heavy, but headed to the scale. I stepped aboard expecting nothing. Instead, I received a blessing. In fact, I thought for a moment I was dyslexic! I've lost 8.5 pounds since we started these challenges.

I know weight fluctuates, but God knew I needed a bit of encouragement.

How are you all doing with your goals? I'm being pretty faithful. Keeping my eyes on things above makes all the difference in the world.

Losing Weight from a Writer's POV

Losing Weight from a Writer's POV

Something just hit me, praise God not a hawk. Tomorrow is the "ouch" of my choices a/k/a scales that's like being hit in the stomach.

So much has been happening this week, creating what could be a emotional roller coaster, but I have been totally relying on God's truth, His word to get me through as I continually pray for this loved one who has struggled for years with an addiction and minister to her as the Lord speaks to my heart.

A dear friend called me today and needs a ride to the hospital for a ultrasound and biopsy. She had cancer 9 years ago. A recent Cat Scan shows a cyst on her Liver. Nothing was on my calendar for that day. That wasn't a coincidence. She was also widowed last year. Both our husbands were good friends and now both with the Lord.

The Holy Spirit is really working in our Fellowship and to God be the glory, great things He has done and is continuing to do.

I've accomplished two of my goals this week, but still having that water deficiency.

Tonight as I was memorizing another verse, it reminded me of how important it is to live each day to the fullest by walking worthy of His calling.

Proverbs 27:1 Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth. (KJV)

Aggie

A Thought Suddenly Struck Me

Yesterday, I headed out for my walk. Here in Florida, it's a beautiful time of year. Like a warm spring day. I walk during my lunch time. It gets me out of the office, away from the phone and places me in communion with God's creation.

However, yesterday the bike path was a bit crowded. Golf carts zipping around me, but I lost myself in thought. Suddenly, thunk. Something hit the back of my head. My first thoughts. Who threw something at me? It felt like a large bean bag pillow. I turned in time to see a Coopers Hawk and black bird fly into a Gumbo Limbo tree.

Wow! That hawk hit my head. People in the golf cart behind me couldn't believe it either. It had been chasing the black bird and somehow I stepped between them.

Today, walking that same path, I couldn't help but think of the hawk. If I had to work that hard for a meal, I'd be sure to lose weight!

What Are You Feeding?

It's easy to try and justify our actions. We easily slip into the world's mold. Today, I ran into someone I haven't seen for awhile. We talked about our struggle with weight and she remembered that once upon a time, I did well. I was "skinny."

She had her reasons (exuses) of why she hadn't visted us here. "Company," and "things are busy." The same kind of reasoning I use. It made me think about how easily we try to slip into the comfort of the world's ways to make it okay to carry around pounds of excess fat that really shows we have fed our flesh rather than our spirit.

Tomorrow is a new day. Be sure to feed your spirit. It makes it easier to walk in the spirit rather than the flesh.

Losing Weight from a Writer's POV

Losing Weight from a Writer's POV

Ok,
I'm a week behind and Sat. was my weigh-in day. Uh O!! Down 5 lbs the week before, up 3 lbs Sat. Hmmm! Now I wonder how that could be!! Oh yes, I remember, "slacker" with exercise and portion control. Will remain with the same (3) goals and add (1).

1. Drink 64 0z of water.
2. A serving as shown on package or recipe.
3. Exercise three times per week (minimum 30 minutes a day)
4. Memorize a Bible verse each week. (Pray for me!)

Hope this blog worked!
Aggie

Hi Aggie,

I find myself in the same boat. I weigh in on Friday and Monday in hopes it will help me stay faithful over the weekend. However, as I weighed this morning I found I was back to square one. The 2.5 pounds I'd lost found their way back to my stomach--or maybe my butt, or my thighs. Can't tell for sure.

It makes me think about how God sees all things. We can try to justify what we do, but he knows the truth. Portion control is my biggest problem right now. It's good that I've stopped eating potatoes and sweets for now, but even with that, if I don't control portions I'll gain weight.

Birdie

Changing Mind and Changing Habits

When on a diet, I find myself thinking about food.

Instead of dieting, I'm looking at this challenge as a change in mind. I don't have to feel deprived. Yesterday, I went to lunch with my husband. I enjoyed an Italian Beef sandwich without fries. Small changes make a difference. I ate lunch and held to my goals.

Little changes in diet make a difference. For me, I know chips and fries are a pit. When I fall into eating them, I tend to overeat. For now, I'm choosing to eliminate potatoes from my diet. It's a change in my thinking. If I do it long enough, it will become a change in habit.

Drink That Water

Funny how easy it is to let little things slip. Over the years, one good habit I've stayed faithful to is drinking water. Water suppresses the appetite and helps the body metabolize stored fat. Can you imagine where I'd be if I didn't drink water!

Studies show that a decrease in water intake may cause fat deposits to increase. So if you're not drinking water, you may want to add that to your goals. An increase in water can actually reduce fat deposits in the body because the kidneys function properly. Without enough water, some of the kidney function passes to the liver. The liver metabolizes stored fat into usable energy, so if the liver has to help the kidneys, it can't do its part effectively.

If you don't drink your water, your inviting fat to remain stored. Hmmm, one of those things I call a no-brainer. Water does a lot more good for your body, but thought I'd pass this bit of info on to you for the day.

Have a great day, and drink that water!

Another Adventure Already!

Howdy everyone,

I can't believe 21 days went by so quickly and with me barely meeting my goals. I really slacked on my Bible study so this will continue on my list. I had trouble figuring out how to use the blog what with me being "blog-impaired." I believe this new set up Donna has created will be easier. If you are my friends and wonder how you got the link to this blog (Nancy, Beth, Grace), I hope you will join, stretch yourself a bit while enjoying everyone's encouragement.

My goals are:

1. BE MORE DILIGENT ON MY BIBLE STUDY - I'm setting the goal of doing some everyday. That means no internet, TV, or computer time until I do at least 1/2 a lesson. We are using the Beth Moore book on the Life of John and it's jam-packed with learning.

2. EXERCISE 4 DAYS A WEEK - For anyone who has been a member of these adventures for a while, may remember I had increased energy from exercising. Now I'm tired after a bit of treadmill time. Gotta fix that. I am also looking for a walking partner, anyone want to walk one day a week?

3. PRAY FOR THE MEN OF MY CHURCH - Last adventure I prayed for the women and it was such a blessing. It helped me grow, God would bring folks to my mind at different times of the day. I'll keep you posted on how God uses my praying to bless others and me at the same time.

4. ONLY 1 CUP OF COFFEE A DAY - I really hate to do this since I love to drink coffee. I usually drink one cup in the am and another (sometimes 2) in the pm. I noticed that I eat worse, neglect my barely green (nutritional drink) and have to go to the bathroom more when I drink more coffee.

Please keep me in prayer throughout this adventure. I want to meet these goals and need the strength and will power to stick to it.

Micky

Great goals, Michelle. I'm starting to feel my energy improve. Why I ever stop exercising I'll never know. Wish you lived closer so we could walk together, but just remember I'm there with you in spirit.

I once did a Beth Moore Study on the life of Paul. It was excellent.

I must tell you that the encouragement you and Aggie provide has helped me stay on task.

Birdie (a.k.a. Donna)

That Dern Old Scale

I have a confession.

In my past, I was a scale addict. Yes, I'd step on that contraption the first thing in the morning and if I didn't like what it said, I'd weigh in after I went to the bathroom. If I was "good" during the day, I'd weigh at night and subtract two pounds to figure out the number I'd expect to see in the morning.

Those numbers--my weight could initiate my mood for the day. Now THAT is keeping my eyes here on earth. The reason I mention this is to tell you that God took that habit from me. The scale is a measuring device. What I do throughout the week doesn't depend on what the scale says. It depends on God's will for my life.

At this point, I'm still planning to weigh on Fri. and Mondays. (Who knows, that could change.) My weight fluctuated a half pound this morning--in the wrong direction.

Here's my praise. It doesn't really matter, because I've been making right choices. My goal isn't to please the scale, or for the scale to please me. As I stay in God's Word, it transforms my mind. Such peace comes with focusing on things of eternal importance!

A Way That Seems Right

As we consider healthy choices, and stare horrified at the extra tonnage clinging to our thighs, stomachs--well just hanging, don't fall for a "quick fix." I've taken the diet pill route, the fad diet route, the starving yourself route and they don't offer the lasting results provided by regularly making healthy choices.

Making right choices a day at a time, an hour at a time, and a minute at a time may not offer weight loss quite as fast as we'd like, but it makes a difference. Even if you lost 2.5 pounds this past 21 days and another 2.5 in the coming 21 days, it's 5 pounds. Remember, the real goal is to keep our eyes on things above.

This morning the old me reared its head and stirred the desire to step on the scale. I'd already had some time with the Lord, and He reminded me it's not about the scale. It's about keeping my eyes on Him and making right choices.

"The backslider in heart will have the fill of his own ways, but a good man will be satisfied with his" (Prov. 14:14)

Good Morning!

Wow, I like the large print on my screen.

I have another 3 days before I begin my new 21 day challenge and have a few new goals in mind.

This is in response to your request.

Aggie

A New Day - New 21 Day Challenge

Hard to believe we've made it through these first 21 days. Funny how a new challenge and a new set of goals gets me motivated. Plus, I stepped on the scale this morning to mark the beginning of this challenge and I lost 2.5 pounds over the last three weeks. For some, that may not sound like much, but I'm thrilled.

As I read in Proverbs this morning, I came across this verse:

"A lazy man does not roast his prey, But the precious possession of a man {is} diligence" (Proverbs 12:27).

It brought to mind the times I come home from work tired and want to eat anything in sight and just sit down and relax instead of making dinner.

Here's my goals for this go round:

Weight Loss Goals – 3/22/06

1. Read my Bible everyday
2. Practice praying throughout the day—pray without ceasing
3. Write down what I eat
4. Exercise 5 days a week
5. Drink 64 oz. of water a day
6. No potatoes
7. No sweets

Looking forward to hearing how you all fared this past 21 days.

I'm also trying a new feature which adds members to the "team" here. I sent out three sample emails inviting you. I'm hoping your posts will appear here where others can view them easily.

Week 3 - Day 7 - Keep Your Eyes on Things Above

As I talked over my upcoming goals with the Lord this morning, he reminded me to keep my eyes on things above. I thought about the vicious circle I’ve been wandering while picking up an extra 30 pounds. Do any of these sound familiar?

I’ve been good; I deserve this treat.

I’m stressed and need comfort food

It’s a special occasion, it won’t hurt for me to eat this, and this and this.

I’m depressed, and don’t really care if I should eat this or not. I’m eating it.

This one time one hurt.

I’m too tired to make a healthy choice, it’s so much easier to just eat what’s quick.

I could go on or be more specific, but it’s not necessary. Here’s what the Lord reminded me of this morning. “Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Col 3:2). With that in mind, consider your excuses for not eating or exercising.

As we head into a new 21 day challenge, keep your eyes on things above as you consider your goals.

Week 3 - Day 6 - The Next Adventure

Hard to believe we've almost reached the end of this 21 days. I feel like I've just gotten into it. This 21 days has taught me that I need to reevaluate my goals, set new ones and start another 21 days. Anyone else along for the trip?

I weighed this morning and I'm back at square one. That tells me that my current goals are not enough and that I need to stick to the ones I set with more diligence.

We took pictures while out with family we hadn't seen for five years. The photos almost depress me. I know the reality of my weight, but when I see it in print I can't kid myself. It's really there, and for my health I need to make some changes.

Michelle suggested a prayer goal next adventure. It's a great idea.

My mom talked about making portion control more of a priority. Amen! That's one of my problems too.

Looking forward to the next 21 days!

Week 3 - Day 5 - Little Changes Make a Difference

I was out and about today. Traveled to visit with family I haven't seen in about 5 years. Of course, the center of getting together is sharing a meal. Since we were in a resort area, we stopped at a restaurant. What to have...what to have.

I ordered a chicken sandwhich and ate it without the bread! Yes, I ate the fries, but not eating the bread was a step in the right direction. It goes back to the portions my mother spoke about in her comment in yesterdays post.

Portions in restaurants are huge. Many times, they equal three or four servings. Thin about that next time you study the menu.

Week 3 - Day 4 - Bearing Each Other's Burdens

Yesterday, I spoke of encouraging one another. Today, let's look at burdens. Life dishes out seasons of trials and troubles no matter who you are or how old you might be. In our culture today, many think they need to guard these difficulties and hold them close to their heart while attempting to keep the "everything's okay" facade from cracking.

When going through a difficulty, I tend to withdraw. think back. God created man and said it was not good for him to be alone. We are not created to be isolated. If you're going through a trial in your life, be sure to share it with a friend. It doesn't make the difficult time go away, but it helps to carry the load when you're willing to share it.

Week 3 - Day 3 - Encouraging One Another

I've had some people tell me they don't know how this "blog thing" works. In the fight to stay on target, encouragement from others makes a big difference. You can post comments on any day as anonymous and just sign the name you’d like to use, or you can email me at Birdiesquill@yahoo.com and I”ll post your comment for you.

It helps to have others share their struggles and victories. Not only does it remind us we are not alone in this battle, but it reminds those who take the time to read what you have to say to pray.

If you do post a comment, it will not appear until I okay it. I choose to moderate the comments posted here to avoid getting spammed.

Today for me has been good. I didn’t have to work, so I enjoyed a day working on a freelance assignment I have to have finished by the end of the month. When I became hungry, I cut up an apple and fresh strawberries as a snack. Yum! So satisfying.

I also drank my water—all 64 ounces.

How about you? How’s it going?

I spoke with Michelle yesterday, and she’s already talking about the next 21 days. I think she’s on target. Even though I haven’t accomplished my goals 100%, I’ve done much better than if I had no goals at all.

Week 3 - Day 2 - Stress

I've done some research on stress. It zaps energy, depletes nutrients from our bodies, and can even contribute to forgetfulness. One article I read said that if your job creates too much stress--change jobs. Wow! Change jobs. Now, that doesn't cause stress.

I hope to make a change, but it requires selling the house. Oh, selling the house, that makes the top ten most stressful situations people can go through! I've done some research on stress. Did I already say that, or am I getting forgetful!

"Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Mat 26:41).

Week 3 - Day 1 - How you doing?

My day started out filled with intentions of eating fruit in the morning, a nice salad for lunch, and dinner was a bit up in the air because the house was being shown.

I walked in the door at work and the plumber had dropped off doughnuts. Doughnut day? That's suppose to be every other Thursday! I can do it--I marched passed those yeasty, sugary, greasy, yummy--oh I mean nasty things and went to put my healthy choices in the refrigerator.

I didn't eat a doughnut, but I did make a few unhealthy choices in the day. I'm consistently drinking my water, and I walked three days last week. The other exercises I'm scratching from my list for now. I enjoy walking once I get myself out the door, but I only dread the other exercises. Maybe in time I'll consider them, but I don't need anything to discourage me.

My biggest problem continues to be eating when I'm stressed. How are you all doing?

Week 2 - Day 7 - My Expectations

No matter how I start out, losing weight tends to skew my thinking. Before I know it, instead of trying to live in a way that's pleasing to God, I fall prey to my own plan. That's why diets don't work. Losing weight if it's needed, should come as a natural result of walking in a way that's pleasing to God.

When I get back to the basics like this, the pressure is off. It's actually energizing to let go and let God take control, but the world presses in. Before I know it, it squeezes me into its mold, making me think I need to follow its ways.

Today is a new day. I thank God for another chance.

Week 2 - Day 6 - By the Grace of God

This weekend seemed to pile stress upon stress, but by the grace of God, it's Monday and another new start. Really, each day is another opportunity for a new beginning, but there's something about Mondays. It's like an official platform to head out and accomplish what sets before us.

I'm weary, exhausted and at the end of my "self." Just where I need to be. When I try to do things in my own strength, it's too overwhelming.

"Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit says the Lord almighty." (Zech. 4:6)

Week 2 - Day Five - Wanted to Hide

This weekend has been high stress. It's work related. Not even worth talking about, but just to give you an idea, I worked Saturday, was on call and found myself dealing with air conditioners not working, people locked out, people that had to be moved... Like I said, not worth talking about.

On the home front, I have writing deadlines clamoring for my time. I did get everything finished that had to get done, but my eating fell to a low priority and exercise did not happen. I realize this is one of the reasons for my weight gain.

I sent in April's Birdie's Quill column, typed up the latest interview, edited two chapters of a fantasy novel I'm editing for ePress, and stopped to relax. I'd allowed stress to overtake my goals and didn't want to face you all.

But, I saw Michelle's comments. To see that she is praying for me encourages me. Be sure to read the comments posted. That's where you'll catch up on everyone's news and perhaps find the inspiration you need.

Week 2- Day 4 - Lack of Planning

Yesterday turned into a disaster for me. We had a call from the Realtor saying they wanted to show the house, so I scurried about before work making sure everything was set to show. I ate my grapefruit and figured I'd buy lunch for a change.

My job entails going out to rental properties on the beach, and at this time of year the number of snowbirds flocking to Florida adds a bit of extra stress to my day job.

By mid-morning my stomach growled and I opened my purse to find I only had $1.00. The money I thought I had with me was tucked away in the pocket of my pants from the day before in the laundry at home.

I ended up scrounging around the office for something to eat. Ate a brownie, a small bag of chips and a diet coke. The choices fed a feeling of failure and filled me with a desire to hide from you all today.

I didn't have time to exercise other than going up and down 24 sets of stairs, and because of a lack of planning I made poor food choices.

The moral is: plan to succeed. When possible, plan ahead so that when hunger strikes, you're ready to make the right choices.

Week 2 - Day 3 - The Badge

I awoke knowing this is day I weight. Little voices argued in my head. Weigh, don't weigh. It's not really about the weight, I reminded myself. It's about making right choices a day at a time.

I headed down the hall to the scale. My ankles and feet told me I had gained. I stood before the scale in the dark and took the step. The digital little zero zoomed across the display. Boom, reality. The three numbers that can make or break me lit up the room. The same. I'm the same as Monday...the same as last Friday.

This fat I carry is like wearing a badge for past poor choices. I want it to go away. The fact is, that I didn't gain this weight in a short amount of time and I won't lose it fast either. I'm okay. I feel okay about it, which is a change for me. I was once a scale addict and allowed it to dictate what I could or couldn't eat. Today, it didn't tell me anything other than my weight.

Week 2 - Day 2 - Beyond the Feelings

It's easy to get discouraged when trying to lose weight. When I first started this challenge, excitement propelled me through the day feeling lighter (I wasn't, but I felt it). The knowledge that I was taking steps in the right direction felt good.

As the week moved on, I'd catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror and the reality of this extra poundage made me feel fat. My bubble of enthusiasm burst and the image in the mirror discouraged me.

The key is not to let feelings dictate our behavior. Keep focused on your goals. It's the right thing to do, no matter how you feel. If you've let your goals slip, today is the day to start. Don't let feelings of failure drag you in the wrong direction. It's a consuming cycle. For me, it's what got me into this mess.

Week 2 - Day 1 - Roll Call

Wow, we've made it this far.

It's time to hear from you all. Don't fret, if you haven't done all you intended to do. This is a new week, and a new day. Forget about the past. Don't let it be a millstone around your neck. God offers a fresh start each day. Isn't that great?

I thank Michelle, Aggie, Margaret and Nancy for participating and want to take a moment to say the invitation to join us is open. If you're ready to make healthier choices, there's no better time than right now. Don't put it off.

As for my goals this past week:

1. Drink 64 oz of water each day
I accomplished this 100%
2. No junky snacks - eat fruit
I did much better in this area, but did eat a few things I really knew I shouldn't.
3. Walk 3 times a week (at least 30 minutes)
Actually walked 45 minutes 3 times and one time for 30 minutes so I surpassed this one!
4. Do 12 min. stretch and tone 5 days a week
I did it. For some reason, this is my least favorite goal. Wierd really, it takes so little time.
5. Stand up straight and practice holding my stomach in
Now that I've made this a goal, I realize how much I slouch. In fact, I think my car seat encourages bad posture. Making this a goal has helped me to remember to sit and stand up straight AND hold in my stomach. It will be great if this becomes a habit!

How about you? How did you do over the past week? Do you feel you need to tweak our goals? Don't forget, goals are to help you not overwhelm you.

Day Seven - You're Not Alone

When we started this journey last week on Wednesday, I felt excited, motivated, and ready to lose weight. By Friday, I was on top of the mountain when the scale told me I'd lost 2 pounds. Then Saturday rolled in and I had to go to work (last minute schedule change), which caused me to make other changes like rescheduling the interview I lined up with an elderly woman.

Stress picked away at me that day, and as I mentioned earlier in my confession post, I missed the mark with a handful of chips. Sunday, I had the pleasure of gathering with friends and family and didn't overeat. Monday, I weighed and went off to conduct my interview. To my surprise a good friend voluteered to drive me. The offer thrilled me. I don't really relish driving over 50 miles alone when I don't know where I'm going.

Here's the point. If I'd gone to do the interview on Saturday (as planned), I would have gone alone. Instead, my job circumstances pushed me to make changes. Rescheduling opened the opportunity for a wonderful visit with a good friend as well as a successful interview.

When I went to work Saturday, I allowed stress to yank me from my goals. Now, I see that the very change that stressed me was actually a blessing. God looked out for me, while I felt sorry for myself. Trust Him, and remember he knows what's best.

Day Six - First Weekend Under the Belt

Here it is, Monday. We've made it through our first weekend. Hurray! I weighted in this morning (Fridays and Mondays) and I didn't lose, but I didn't gain. For me, that's good news for a Monday.

I had that little slip up Saturday, but did fine yesterday. I'm actually following through on my toning and stretching exercises, as set in my goals. I can't figure out why I don't want to do them. Level one is easy and doesn't take me more than 3 or 4 minutes.

It's my mindset. I know that the levels get harder, and I don't want to go there. Instead of dreading the future, I need to take one day at a time. Matthew reminds me not to worry about tomorrow because today has enough trouble of its own. If my thinking wanders to far away from the present, I risk entering discouraging territory. What do I mean?

Looking back, I could get depressed at how I'd lost all that weight and now gained it back plus some.

Looking forward too far, I might think I'll repeat that same behavior.

Staying focused on my current goals--that helps me through the day. Here's a verse to encourage you this week.

"Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things (Phil. 4:8).

Day Five - Confession and Victory

Seems no matter how much I don't want life to influence my eating, it tends to get me when I'm stressed. Yesterday, I had plans to interview an 88-year-old woman for a paying freelance job. Instead, I had to reschedule and head into work at my day job. The details aren't important, but it wasn't what I wanted to do. I cut up an apple, brought my lunch, and walked out the door prepapred.

As the day progressed, I found myself alone answering the phone and dealing with problems. The three bags of potato chips sitting across the room called my name. I tried to ignore them and ate my apple. A little later, I ate my lunch. The afternoon dragged on, and the potato chips persisted to try and get my attention. I finally gave in and ate a handful of broken pieces. Normally, I would have eaten at least half a bag, but not this time. I thought about my goals, and what I really want. It isn't potato chips.

I did think about the rest of those chips, but I didn't give in. I walked out the door at the end of the day victorious.

Last night was difficult as well. I've been in the habit of eating popcorn with my husband as we watch television. I wanted a snack, but as I considered reality--I wasn't hungry. No sense eating something if I'm not really hungry!

It's a process, but setting goals to make healthy choices helps get through the weak times. How are you all doing?

Day Four - Stretch, Tone and Groan

Yesterday I did my toning, stretching exercises for the first day of this challenge. I've commited to five times a week, so as I counted on my fingers I realized that I'd procrastinated long enough. I had to do them, or I wouldn't make my goal.

I'd received the book containing these exercises back in 1970 when my daughter was born. They only take 12 minutes, and you gradually work up the different levels with the key being that you always complete the exercises in 12 minutes, if you don't, you can't move up. It took me four. It is level one after all. Three touch your toes...and so on.

I've done these exercises off and on for years. I know they work and don't take a lot of time. So why is it that I stop? The very thing I know I should do, I do not do it. Sound familiar?

At least we're heading back in the right direction.

Be sure to check in on the comments of all those joining the challenge. Encourage one another. I know there's more of you out there. Let's hear from you.

Day Three - Minus Two

During a recent family visit, my sister told me she weighs herself on Fridays and Mondays. I've been on diets that don't allow you to way after day 10, for six weeks. In fact, I'v know people who throw their scales away, and others that determine whether or not they can "cheat" based on the numbers.

So what do you all think. To weigh or not to weigh? I've decided to go with my sister's idea. I weighed today. I've lost two pounds. HURRAY! I know the first few pounds come off easiest, but I don't care. I'm finally heading in the right direction.

When we base what we're doing on our goals it doesn't really matter what we weigh. The commitment is made. If the scale tells us we've lost, that's great, but not a reason to gorge or celebrate with food. If the scale tells us we've gained, it can be depressing, but it's not a reason to gorge or drown our sorrow with food.

Hang in there and keep your eyes on the finish line.

Day Two - Working Out the Kinks

I made it through day one! Past the four bags of chips my boss' teenage daughter thoughtfully brought to the office, the cookies offered, and the popcorn snack before bed. I ate strawberries instead of popcorn, and they were delicious.

On the exercise - I walked for 45 minutes, and gradually, I'm remembering to hold in my stomach and stand up straight. Funny, but the muscles in my back are sore. It's because holding your stomach in is real exercise. I read once that if you hold your stomach in for 10 seconds, it's the equivalnet of one situp. Not sure if that is totally accurate, but it does make a difference over time.

I'm still working out the kinks on posting comments. Please leave your comments. It appears they are sent to me and I have to accept or reject them. However, others have told me they posted comments and they are nowhere.

This is what I've decided to do. If your comments don't work, e-mail me and I'll post them under the name 21daychallenger. E-mail exactly what you want to say and use the name you want to appear. Put 21 Day Challenge in the subject line. Mailto: birdiesquill@yahoo.com.

Day One - On Your Mark

Here it is, a fresh start. I awoke with hope that I might not only start the day heading toward healthier choices, but that I will also finish the day accomplishing what I set out to do. Why? Because I am "heading" toward healthier choices set down in my goals.

I have plenty of people who want to join me, but posting comments seems to be a bit of a problem.

Click on COMMENTS at the bottom of this post. This takes you to a new screen.

Type your goals in the box provided.

Choose an identity. For instance, I’ve posted as Birdie instead of Donna. Please don’t post as anonymous. It will make it hard to follow a group of anonymous people pursuing goals.

If you want to see what your post will look like before it is published, press PREVIEW. If you want to make a change, click the EDIT COMMENT on the bottom left. If it’s ready to go, click on PUBLISH THIS COMMENT.

When you return to Losing Weight from a Writer’s POV, a number will appear beside comments (It sometimes takes awhile for the comment to show up. I posted my goals at 6:45 this morning. At 7:00 still no show.). This indicates a comment has been posted. Feel free to read comments. This is where you’ll find encouragement, laughs, and maybe some new ideas.

**Looks like you'll have to make an account to post a comment. It's free. You can do this after you click on comment.