Kathy - Motivation

I think it is pretty hard to keep motivated when you don't see much movement on the scale.  It seems to me that the inch you lost is muscle gain - muscles are leaner than fat and heavier.  Muscles also burn more calories than fat so you are gradually tipping the ratio in favor of a better calorie-burning body.  It might help you exercise consistently if you tell yourself you are changing the composition of your body.  Don't know if you have had a chance to check out any of the blogs I listed, but the Faith, Fitness, Fun blog has quite a bit about motivation, which might be helpful.

For me, I am pretty motivated right now.  I am sick and tired of carrying around this extra flab.  I want to be trim and fit and I am tired of messing around.  I AM going to lose 10 lbs.  I have only lost 2 lbs since the challenge started, which is discouraging, but I am continuing to adjust so I can get the results I want.  I now take the beast for her tromp plus spend some time on the treadmill every evening (just about)  For breakfast I am only having a green smoothie, no hot cereal. Supper continues to be only plant-based:  a large baked sweet potato with a little salt, or a bowl of pinto beans smothered in salsa, or a couple baked Yukon Gold potatoes and a side of green beans or peas. I have been battling a bout of depression the last couple days.  I don't know why but have just been feeling listless - it really helps to go for a walk or hop on the treadmill.  I am considering adding in a walk over my lunch break.  I just need to plan ahead and make sure to bring walking shoes, etc. to work.

Hang in there Brooke - I am so proud of how you are working through your times of dragging.  Is there another video you could challenge yourself with?  Maybe do a 30-day challenge with one video at a time...?  Exercise videos are really not terribly expensive - maybe get the Biggest Loser Boot Camp series and do each one for a month. Check out the offerings on Amazon and see what they have....

PS:  I have recently discovered Greek yogurt - it is rich, sweet, creamy and yummy!  It helps satisfy my dessert cravings and only has around 120 calories.  It really tastes like a decadent dessert!

Courage to all who journey!