Spreading the Spark

I am very excited about a new web site I've discovered. I have been trying with a few successes, but nothing consistent, to lose weight. I would like to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight and get in shape. Of course, I realize after 4 kids certain measurements may not return to where they were, but I want to be my best physically. I kid Nathan about entering a bikini contest at 40 just to prove to myself I can look good, really good. I'd like to be in the best shape of my life by then. (It WILL require a personal trainer, but that will just have to wait.)

Anyway, sorry for that tangent. I found this great web site called Spark people. Using the site, I can track all my food for the day, track exercise, etc. It provides meal plans, grocery lists, member forums, articles, tons of information and encouragement. To start, I entered my current weight, my goal weight, a deadline, my height, stuff like that. Then, it calculates a healthy calorie range, fat intake, protein goal, etc. for me to reach my goal weight within the given time line (assuming the time line is reasonable.) It also tells me how many calories to burn each week and I have the option to get strength training exercises generated by the site. It does so much! And it's FREE!

I lost 1.6 pounds my first week. I feel great. I don't feel at all like I'm dieting because I've had all kinds of foods, including pizza and some of my favorite treats. The site helps me because when I record the food I've eaten or plan to eat, I'm keenly aware of what I'm putting in my body. I am learning to make different choices. And, the healthier my choices the more frequently I crave healthy choices. I just love it!

I highly recommend checking it out!