Personal Progress

I started the Month of October with a renewed will to drop some of the weight that I've put on over the past few years and to (once again!) begin to eat with good health in mind.

I started the month with time exercising on the exercise bike every day, but that only lasted for a week on a daily basis, a second week on an occasional basis and ... yeah, that was pretty much it. I've been using the stairs at work and only used the elevator twice (out of habit). That usually amounts to 500-800 stair steps per day (that's due the 'tower' part of air traffic control tower).

The biggest effort comes in the way of what I'm eating (and not eating). My focus is to really cut out processed foods. I'm eating more fruits and vegetables, less red meat, and trying to stick to whole foods. I'm also reducing my portions and overall intake. For the four weeks ending yesterday, I've lost 11 pounds and can make it to the fifth floor sign-in without being out of breath!

It's time to get back on the idea of regular exercise (in addition to the stairs). Weight loss was better in those weeks when I was exercising and slowed when I stopped. I'm trying not to be unrealistic about expectations and am generally pleased with my progress. With three days left in the month, I'm hoping to push for one more pound to end the month at -12.

Favorite smoothie of the month:

two small apples (whole, core and all!)
a couple of heaping scoops of plain Greek yogurt
a large scoop of all natural peanut butter
ice

John <><