Breathe and Reboot

So, the 30 by 30 didn't happen. It was more like 12 by 30, which just doesn't sound so hot. Then, I got sick. Real sick. Like only-eating-mashed-potatoes-and-strawberry-shakes kind of sick. That doesn't make for a good diet, not at all (but it tasted fabulous). New year, new start, right? So with a little modification and a few new goals to hit, I am now calling this "30 WHILE 30." I hope to drop 30 pounds MINIMUM this year. I can do this, and here's the how and why:

1) I've been back to the YMCA. After getting picked on by the gym staff for my absence, I grabbed a towel and got back into the swing of things. Knowing that the staff recognized my absence kind of freaked me out- but made me already plan my next gym visit.

2) Team Flabulous- at work, we're starting the 3rd "Biggest Loser" contest. My team, being Flabulous, is counting on me to lose weight so we can win the big pot of cash at the end. All of my teammates are on my floor at work, and all have permission to knock cookies out of my hands. During the competition the last 2 years, I've done well- losing 34 lbs the first year and another 20 the second year. I'm hoping for just as much success.

3) Weight Watchers- still going, still journaling with Carol checking in on me, and still getting used to the new plan. Last week I was told that I think "too much" and to just forget about the old program and jump on the new. It's a little tricky, but I can do it. It's just a LOT of restarting.

4) I have committed to doing the Hawk Island Triathlon this June (!!) and want to do the Warrior Dash in July. I mean, you have to jump over fire. FIRE! I'm in. But that means I have to get my ass in gear- now.

5) I went to the doctor today and, while my weight has stayed the same in the last year, I *feel* crappy. My cholesterol level is a little high and my Vitamin D is all out of whack. Plus, my doc thinks I'm a superstar after doing the Muddy Buddy, and I can't disappoint.

Now I just have to readjust my points, find new foods to eat (like mashed cauliflower, which I discovered last night- like mashed potatoes, but point free!), and go. I had a friend tell me that I sabotage myself and make too many excuses. I argued that some are valid excuses (I'm NOT going to work out in the AM, or late after work- it doesn't work for me mentally. I won't be productive), but acknowledged that some of the excuses are flimsy. This can't just be a diet- it has to be a lifestyle. I have to get out of the habit of reaching for a cookie (or a shake) when I don't feel great. Food is my drug of choice. I'm going to start treating it like a recovering alcoholic would with booze- now, I just have to create my "12 steps" and stick with it.