Wow, this is hard. There's really no other way to put it. I know that I am doing this the right way, but it takes a lot of time and effort. I'm not complaining, just making an observation. I realize that, if I want this change to last a lifetime, I'm going to need to put in time and effort to make it "stick." I can say that I am truly blessed to have family and friends that are encouraging me and are happy to discuss my goals, challenges, and strategies. It also makes it harder to cheat when everyone is aware that you are trying to make a change. Just knowing that they know tends to cause me to be more accountable for my choices.

I also have to say that this is the first time that I have actually let go and given this up to God. I have truly reached the end of myself when it comes to weight loss. I am really done with "diets." I have come to the conclusion that God could care less if I lose weight. He just wants me to be healthy and happy. Now obviously, I will be healthier if I lose weight, but I am looking at weight loss as a by-product of getting healthier. That makes it easier for me to rely on God for assistance. Just like in my spiritual life, if I make a mistake, I get down on my knees, ask for forgiveness, and then get back up and dust myself off. Just like God's mercies, my calories slate is fresh and new each morning. A new day, a new opportunity to make healthier choices and glorify God!