Fat Free Friday: Back on the Horse

Welcome to Fat Free Fridays, a series I’m starting because I’m gazing at a long road of weight loss ahead of me. I figure I’d take you along for the ride, if not only to hear about my progress, but also to eat ice cream with me in spirit whether in celebration or self pity.

Let’s start with the why. I’m gaining weight at a crazy fast pace. Only a handful of the clothes in my closet fit me, and when I look at photos of myself, I sigh and think about how far I’ve fallen from the slightly less fat version of myself.

The older I get, the tougher it is to lose weight. I used to drop 5-7 pounds in the first two weeks of trying. Not so much now. I’m afraid if I can’t get a hold of the numbers now, I never will. Part of me already feels that way because I’ve been trying to lose weight since puberty and I’ve never been truly satisfied with the results.

I’m a fairly confident person. I’m pretty comfortable in my body despite the weight loss roller coaster, but I know this isn’t the weight I should be. I know I capable of having better habits. Maybe this is my way of keeping myself accountable.

Moving on to the how. A while back, I visited a holistic doctor who told me I had a “sluggish thyroid”. Nothing crazy, but I bought some supplements to help aid my digestive system. She also gave me some suggestions for my diet, which made me a little sad but gave me a little direction.

I’ve stopped cooking with pasta and rice, and I’ve bought more fresh and frozen veggies. I’m incorporating smoothies or protein shakes as a replacement meal a couple times a week. I drink a bit more water and less coffee. And I stop eating by 8pm to cut out those late night eating habits.

Not a bad start, right?

My progress: no progress.

I played tag with a pound and a half for two weeks. This is typically when I turn to the ice cream, sprinkled with chocolate chips, and drenched with hot fudge saying what’s the point?

After a few days of sulking, I got back on the horse again, which is ironic because I’m terrified of horseback riding.

The fact is I need to see results. I can’t afford to gain anymore, which means I no longer have a choice but to do better.

I’ve also been reading Lysa TerKeurst’s book, “i’ll start again monday” which is a weight loss journey through the eyes of a Christian trying to glorify God with her body. I’ve found comfort knowing that I’m not the only one who has the same thoughts, feelings, and cycle of habits. Turning this into a spiritual journey is both a new approach for me and a great reminder of the deeper reason I need to get healthier, to honor God. Her book is where I got the idea to start this series. (not an ad)

I hope you’ll come alongside me as I continue to update you on how I’m doing. I would much rather post a before and after picture, looking slim and beaming with pride, but maybe some good can come from taking you through the journey in real time.

If you have any small suggestions for “good habits,” feel free to leave a comment. Until next Friday!