learning and relearning

Wow, I'm getting older and I'm forgetting stuff faster than I can relearn it!

On Wednesday we learned some old and new strategies for dealing with cravings; wait, drink water, distract, change location or activity, ask for support, chew gum, read, etc. One thing that I realized was critical to my success when at home is not eating in combination with any electronics. I have found this before and it's hard to do when I'm alone, but it's "critical", so I'm committed to doing it. If I combine those 2 activities, I overeat, simple as that.

Another thing I relearned this week pertains to goals. The more clear they are, the higher my chances of success. I was at an information session about our upcoming performance appraisals, and I realized that the numbers on the scale are not always connected enough to the goal for me to keep the real goal in mind. I have not made the numbers on the scale the most important thing during this process, but I'm allowing myself to forget that sometimes. When what I report is how I'm eating and my weight, my real goal can get lost...from my mind, which is the most important place for it to be!

I bought a new bathing suit; a cheap Speedo that I like, but is just a little snug in the hips. I've hung it on my bed screen to remind me that I want it to fit better. I'm hanging pictures of my grandkids in the stairway so every time I walk in, I'm reminded of how much I enjoy being with them. I've cleared off my kitchen counter, so I like to go in there and prepare good things to eat. I'm going to figure out how I can walk to work, even occasionally.

One more thing; when I'm clean, I can remember that I'm pretty happy. When I'm not, I get so disconnected that it feels like I haven't done years of therapy to get here. Being happy and content with my life feels way better than eating to feel better or block out the stuff I used to need to eat for. Being clean equals being satisfied with my life; being enough. I don't know or care if that makes sense to anyone else, but I need remember it!

As always, I'm eternally grateful to everyone who is patient, supportive and loving with me; thanks!


"The trouble with learning from experience is that you never graduate." Doug Larson

"Grandma loves me, but I love her more." Daniel Slessor

Love, elly