I am actually quite eager for the end of the month when I weigh and measure.

I started doing the Curves (at home) work out from the Curves book by Carol Colman.  (Although I am not very pleased with the book's tag line, "permanent results without permanent dieting" because if nothing else, I have learned that this has to be a whole life change and not just a temporary measure to solve a problem.)  It uses resistance tubes and cardio for a much more intense work out that I was doing.  I did it first on Saturday and by Saturday night, I was really sore, particularly from the crunches done on the exercise ball to warm up.  My upper abs are still sore.  I did it again on Monday, but only did the 50 regular crunches instead of 50 oblique crunches on each side as well.  I adapted some of the exercises to use the exercise bar from Body Flex, which I really, really like.   The idea is that you do a strength building exercise for 40 seconds, then do heavy cardio for 40 seconds (hell, I can do almost anything for 40 seconds), then do a strength building exercise on a different part of your body for 40 seconds, then back to cardio for another 40 seconds.  It definitely gets your pulse rate up.  The book says to do it 3 times a week, so I do it every other day and then do a cardio exercise on the off day. 

Today is work out day, but Eric is sleeping in the bedroom where I do the exercises (have to have a door that closes and locks), so he's going to have to join in, get out or play cheerleader!

Last night, I re-reviewed the Dr Phil Ultimate Weight Loss Challenge books and took the tests.  I am doing OK on the nutritional part.  I need to up my fiber and lower my salt.  I am skeptical about the salt because I lightly salt my food and don't really think that's a major health issue.  I don't eat a lot of salty foods like chips or french fries or anything.  The fiber I definitely could use.  I was also doing well on exercise by his standards, so that was good reinforcement.

One day at a time, you know? 

I will be so happy to fit into a 12-14.  That is my goal.

I have definitely learned that there are a few constants to the process of weight loss.  One is that I know for a fact that until you are really ready, it doesn't matter what pill you take, what book you read, what gym you go to or what exercise you do.  It seems as though the same results would be achieved by the same actions, but it's just not true.  There's something about the sustained idea that you are really doing it that is a very important component.  Yes, you absolutely have to exercise and modify what you eat, but the mental change has to be there too.  I don't think success is possible without all three of those things.  You might start the process with only 1 or 2 of them, but ultimately, to really succeed all three have to be incorporated.  Of course, that is me talking from this side of the fence.  I'll get back to you to confirm when I hit that 12-14.