An Introduction of Sorts

Hi there...

I've blogged before (fact: I hate the word blog) and lost interest (or became terrified of sharing too much personal information on the internets). I'm starting this blog as I enter this new phase. Over the last 3.5 years I've lost approximately 200 pounds (depends on the scale, the day, the hormones). It feels amazing to have accomplished the impossible, but learning to live like a "normal" person may prove to be more challenging. It's the first time in my entire life I've been 100% satisfied with the number on the scale (not kidding here -- not even as a 5th grader was I happy with my weight).

Now it feels like nothing but a numbers game.

After some research today, I've come to the conclusion that with my age, height, weight, and activity level I can eat up to 2,380 calories per day. I'm not comfortable with that, so I'm going to aim for 2,000. I will be taking a multi-vitamin, iron supplement, and B-12 supplement daily. (Note: I'm deficient in iron and B-12, confirmed my doctors so it's not that I'm real into pumping myself full of supplements). I'll be drinking between 64-96 ounces of water per day. I'm going to attempt to limit myself to one caffeinated beverage per day (which may include coffee, tea [iced or hot - no sugar], diet soda [I know, I know -- bad... very bad]), and limit juices to 100% fruit juice or 100% vegetable juice. And within that little column, I'll be limited that as much as possible. But I love orange juice on a Sunday, soo... we'll see.

As far as activity goes -- I enjoy running, cycling, yoga, exercise classes, strength training (this is a lie. I hate strength training), kettlebells, walking, hiking, etc. I am going to work very hard to do one of these activities a minimum of 30-60 minutes per day, 5 times per week.

I spent a hefty amount of time today researching the number of servings within all the food groups I should be eating. This may or may not be surprising, but this will be the first time I've paid SO much attention to what I'm eating. I understand portions for the most part. Infact I think most people do... they just choose to turn a blind eye. (Tidbit - I typed blond eye first... could also make sense? In certain instances... no? Just kidding). I will attempt to photograph and record every single thing I eat and drink.

Let's see...

Finally, let me be very clear. I want to have a healthy relationship with food. I don't think a person can be very restrictive and have a healthy relationship with food. I love eating. I love eating a variety of things. I'm a huge fan of "ethnic" cuisine. Is calling a cuisine "ethnic" offensive? I honestly never know what to say. I want to politically correct/sensitive, but I'm kind of an idiot sometimes.

Oh! I also love to cook, so anytime I cook something I'll try to include a recipe.

See you tomorrow for the first real day of food & exercise blogging! (Ohh, I hate that word!)