I set my original goal at 140 lbs (losing 32.2 lbs). I couldn't remember the last time I weighed 140, so even that seemed outrageous. On November 21, 2005 -- 22 weeks after starting -- I weighed in at 139.6 lbs (a total loss of 32.6). I had hit my goal, and my BMI was finally in the Normal range.
Once I reached 140, I realized I could stand to lose a few more pounds, so I reset my goal to 132.2 lbs (losing 40 lbs). On January 23, 2006 -- 9 weeks later, 31 weeks after starting -- I weighed in at 131.6 lbs (a total loss of 40.6 lbs).
Once I reached that goal, I reset it to 122.2 lbs (losing 50 lbs). On April 30, 2006 -- 14 weeks later, 45 weeks after starting -- I weighed in at 120.2 lbs. (a total loss of 52 lbs)!
Although I had become a Lifetime Member on January 2, 2006, now I was officially starting Maintenance at 120.2 lbs and I was scared. Losing weight was not difficult for me. My biggest concern was keeping it off. Everyone I spoke with in person or online who had fallen off the wagon said the same thing, "I gained all my weight back, and then some, when I stopped going to meetings." I was determined to not let that happen to me.
As a Lifetime Member, I only have to weigh in once a month. But I realized a lot could happen in one month, so I have faithfully weighed in every week. In fact, in the past 52 weeks (since starting Weight Watchers) I've only missed four weigh ins.
One of my favorite resources is the Weight Watchers “Food Talk” Message Board. The people on that board are so willing to share their experiences and support each other. Even though I will likely never meet any of them face to face, I feel as though I’ve made lifelong friends. The woman who goes by the screen name “ca_vol” is an absolute treasure trove of valuable suggestions, and she readily shares her knowledge with anyone who asks. Without her, I wouldn’t have known about my new favorite food – Van Egg Rolls.
When people ask how I was so successful, I tell them my secrets:
1) I write down EVERYTHING that passes my lips. For the most part, I write it down as I'm eating it.
2) When necessary, I weigh as opposed to measure my food. I find weighing is far more accurate.
3) I make sure I get my Good Health Guidelines in every day.
4) I try to limit my "treat" points to five per day.
5) I've started exercising four to five times per week. EDIT: I haven't kept this up. *hangs head in shame*
6) I have noticed no difference in weight loss between eating or not eating my Weekly Points Allowance, so I don't worry if I use those points.
7) I rarely eat beef (it’s not worth the points to me). If I do, I eat it during the first two or three days of my week. Any later and it definitely shows up on the scale. Same with pasta. EDIT: Having recently been diagnosed with severe anemia, I don't recommend this. I now eat about 3 oz of lean beef once a week.
8) If I blow it one day, I get back on track the next day or even the next meal. Some people say, "I've blown it this week, I'll get back on track next week." The sooner you get back on track, the better.
