LaraStar's Journal, 19 February 2012

SO glad to see you back. you had a wonderful night out with friends. And it wasnt like it was just social. Coming back alive and well from Afghanistan is HUGE, as is recovering from a long illness. Consider the alternatives. You were celebrating life and that is AMAZING. As for eating out, this has always been your nemesis. I say expect it, and adjust the rest of your day to accommodate. Oh and share that pumpkin soup recipe. don't beat yourself up, Lara. have a wonderful day. 

Glad your back..and like Heather you were celebrating the good things in life..There is no price on being home after being in Afghanistan or being well after an illness..money, food etc..takes second place in my opinion...You'll get back to your normal...I am sure...Have a great Sunday dear...:O) 

Welcome back LaraStar... You are allowed to have some "special" days with friends - especially ones that are as dear and have been through such traumas.... Life goes on, and we have to accommodate it, and adapt to include itin our lives :-) 

Thank you for your comments. I really enjoyed those nights out! My friends are only partially to blame for my failure. They love going out for food! I couldn't convince them to steam some veggies at home and then go out for a wine spritzer! They love trying new restaurants and eating 3 or 5 course meals. I'd hate to be the only one to have no starter or dessert. But if I keep up with them, I have to stay below my RDI at all times during the week to save up enough calories. I can't change my friends or my husband. I often don't even go out with them and feel bad for it. They go out for food up to 3 times a week! My main problem is that I have become complacent with my weight loss. At my highest weight I was so desperate to change that it was quite easy. Now that I have lost a considerable amount and am fairly happy, I don't take it as seriously anymore. But I am not done losing! And the lbs are creeping up again. I am 7 lbs above my lowest weight in December 2011. I felt much better then! I have resorted to stress eating again, or is it boredom? Far too many sweets! Something has to click but I don't know how to make it! 

Heather...the pumpkin soup is easy. I use one pumpkin or squash, boil it with a carrot, a sweet potato and a red pepper for extra colour, maybe add an onion or garlic, vegetable stock, boil for 30 min, blend. My favourite! 

I understand, Lara. I really do. I need to get off the extra weight too and feel a little complacent. Right now my century and my weight training keep me going. What about your marathon. I haven't forgotten that we're going to get you to come to NYC for the marathon one of these days. Maybe that can be your incentive. One of my spin instructors told me that 10 pounds lost made almost a 10 minute difference in her running. And the sounds sounds very yummy. Thanks. I will be trying it.