Running in the Rain

Went on my first run in the rain. Frankly it was wet, but oddly amazing. Kind of empowering in a way. Almost like a nothing can stop strong will and determination feeling. I took a before picture, wish I had taken an after. Definitely something to remember.

I currently live in Louisiana. The culture here is amazing, even more so the sense off state pride. Part of the culture is the love for amazing food.  While I enjoy it, it sometimes makes it difficult to stay on track when around it. I do indulge on occasion if the hubs and I are out to have a good time...but weekly at work during orders or team meetings, lunches or breakfasts it is sometimes difficult to be the odd man out. I don't want others to think I am looking down on the culture,  but I know for my own sake I have to stick to plan.
Generally,  this means bringing my own meals on a daily basis and preparing for team lunches by knowing ahead of time what it will be and what I need to do.

Some days I literary feel like locking myself in my office in order to escape the treats, fried foods or carbo loads. I hope at some point my mind will no longer react to it and it will be as easy pie....well spinach or something.

How I Am Losing Weight

Each time I have decided to lose weight I have used different styles. I have taken pills, changed potion sizes, exercised my butt off, Joined Weight Watchers and Jillian Michaels and counted calories. Each course has helped me lose weight, but they were not lifestyle changers for me. I never wanted to be on a diet. I just wanted to find a system that worked for me. That I could use as a lifestyle changer. What I have ended with is a combination of many ideas/concepts.

Food: This is kind of a combination of Paleo and Zone choices.  From Paleo I take many of the food concepts. I don't eat anything processed, but I do add dairy. The way I look at food is that if it is not giving my body something it needs, or fueling it, then why eat it.  From the Zone I use blocks to direct me. My day consists of 6 meals:

Breakfast: 3 blocks
Snack: 2 blocks
Lunch: 3 blocks
Snack: 2 blocks
Dinner: 3 blocks
Snack: 2 blocks 
*each meal will consist of protein, healthy carb & healthy fat.  My evening snack is always a protein shake 30 minutes before bed.

I also limit my daily calorie intake to around 1550.

Exercise: I run at least 4 days a week and throw in kettle bell, spin, Wii and ab workout s during the week . These vary with the time I have available.

It may sound like a lot. But it is really just planning ahead. I honestly feel better now then I ever have!