Happy Anniversary!

Two years ago today I started my great weight loss adventure. Many things in my life have changed over the last two years. Most of it for the good. I will be finished with my weight loss on April 21st when I run in the Race for the Cure. I figure that if I can finish a 5k then I am healthy and what ever weight I am is where I am going to stay.

So to commemorate my 2 year journey I have come up with a top 10 list of things I have learned during this process.

1. The best way to get started is to have a buddy, even if they bail on you in 6 months.
2. Have someone who is supportive and can hold you accountable several times a week. This should be a third party besides your weight loss buddy.
3. You have to change your mind set from "I Can't" to "I know I can!!"
4. When you start eating less sugar other things taste much sweeter. Example I used to hate dark chocolate but now it is the only kind I eat.
5. Write everything down. It helps you realize exactly how much you eat everyday
6. Once you get into the swing of things you begin to recognize what your body actually needs and when you crave junk food why.
7. Exercise isn't as bad as you think it is. Two years ago I didn't even go walking and now I am going to run in a 5k.
8. I know how much this sounds cliche but it is true "Nothing tastes as good as thin feels."
9. It is way fun to see people who haven't seen me in a few years and they don't recognize me!!
10. It's okay to hit a plateau once in a while as long as you don't give up. Plus you know that once you hit your goal you will be able to maintain it.

By the way I ran an entire mile today!! My training is coming along. And I have already decided to run in my second 5k the week after the Race for the Cure. My school is holding one to help raise money for a new playground and fitness track.