All Things Gwen

Today marks 100 days of conscious eating. I can’t believe it.

I USED to be able to eat whatever, whenever and never have to worry about it. People used to be amazed at my appetite. Life was good, especially since I’m a total foodie … until I turned 28. I hurt my foot and my activity slowed down a lot. Then, I got wrapped up in drama and stress at work — and gave up on working out. For two years, I was an emotional eater, and had no energy or desire to cook. I ate to make myself happy, and I gained about 25 + pounds. UGH! Eventually I got let go from that job (as did 13+ others), but I still was wrapped up with the uncertainty of my next career move. Plus, we were engaged and I was really bugging out about finances.

When I look back, I kick myself for not being able to get in phenomenal shape for my wedding. Why couldn’t I do it then? But, I was so stressed out with being unemployed. There was always something in my head holding me back.

I finally had an “aha” moment and decided I needed to stop eating garbage. I realized life was always going to be challenging and needed to stop making excuses! I stopped accepting how unhappy I was with my body — and decided to do something — watch my diet.

I stumbled upon Four Hour Body, and here I am 100 days later. BIG SUCCESSES! My goal now is to get in better shape than I was!

Here are my updates:
• I’ve lost a total of about 16 pounds.
• I followed the diet rules religiously until Day 62 – the day after hubby’s 30th anniversary.
• Now, I’d say I follow it 80%. I have cheated a bit here and there, but made good choices — smaller portions of carbohydrates, a bite of something or piece of fruit. I’d say I’ve been 80% since Day 62 and I’ve maintained and lost just a little more.
• I feel like the diet has helped guide the meals I prepare for myself and I’m more aware of what I’m putting in my body.
• My activity has increased; I am finishing up rehab on my knee. I hope to get back to running and working out like I want to. I’d say I’m 80% on that so far. When I started the diet, I was really sidelined by injuries.
• My clothes are crazy big! Thank goodness I saved all my skinny jeans — and by that, I mean jeans I wore when I was really thin.
• I have lots of energy and I feel like I’m back to the stuff I really love — trying new workouts, etc.
• I feel really in control of things, and the best part is that I don’t feel like crap! My mood is awesome and I’m really happy.

My current goal is still to get my 2008 body back but better. That would be about five more pounds, although I’m not really going by pounds, it’s more of how fit I feel and measurements.

I want to look and feel like this:

Actually, this picture is symbolic of the shape my cousin and I want to be back in! She’s on the left, I’m on the right. We’re at a bbq in 2007.