Working out, watching what I'm eating. Losing weight faster than I expected, or ever 
have before. Seeing new numbers on the scale, beyond my previous attempts. But, a 
worry: How long until I fail again?

I'm at least fortunate that I'm not too overweight. I hate the stereotype that all 
Americans are fat. I understand that we have high obesity rates, I just really don't 
want to contribute to these statistics anymore. I can do better, so I'm trying (as I 
have many times before). I'm below 200 pounds, at least. I never want to break that 
limit again. But I'm noticeably not in shape, and that's my least favorite thing.

I've been counting calories as just a way to monitor my eating. I think my goal is 
1600 calories a day, or something close to it. I look everything up before I decide 
to eat it - it's astounding how many calories are in most foods. I know there's more 
to weight than just calories, but this is where I'm starting (plus going to the gym). 
It's no wonder I have this extra weight!

But I'm doing okay for now. Weekends have been hard since it seems there's a big 
family or friend party every week. Still, I've been hyper-vigilant during the week 
and am down 5 pounds in the past few. Weight fluctuates, and staring at the scale 
is a dangerous habit. But it's hard not to get excited when I'm doing better than I 
have before. I feel healthier and have learned about a lot of new meals that I like.