70 lbs, 8 months (Pics)

Started in March thinking it would never work and that I'd just give it a try.

8 months later, 70 pounds down, total change of lifestyle, never being deprived, having the occasional "over day" with 25 pounds to go...

I started at 219. What I've learned is this:

1. Weigh and log. Everything. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Log it and own it. Because your body will.
2. Going over calories isn't a failure. Going over day after day and never returning to counting - that's a failure. Most of the time if I'm over it's because my body NEEDS the food. Listen to your body.
3. Don't mindlessly eat. If you're eating be conscious of what you're putting in your mouth. Whether it's a salad or cheesecake. And if it is cheesecake (or some other delicious, calorific food) ENJOY IT. Savor it. Taste every bite.
4. Exercise. Make exercise a part of your life. Regularly. Just do it. Even if it's a stroll around the block. Do it.
5. Be proud of yourself. This is not easy. But it can be done!
6. Eating splurge foods and returning the next day to normal, careful eating is a big WIN. We have to do it in maintenance, practice is a good thing.

Things I can do now:

1. Cross my legs!
2. Run a 5 minute mile.
3. Wear a size 8. (From a starting size of 18 W)
4. Make good choices and decisions.

Things that have changed:
1. My job. I was promoted.
2. My attitude. This is the biggest. I'm very happy and my happiness is contagious.

Good luck to us all!!