"Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right!" -Oprah
I love new years! I don't care what anyone says about everyday being the first day of a new year or not waiting for a new year to work towards goals, there is something totally magical in dreaming about the year ahead and resolving to be better.
This is the first time I am publicly announcing a New Year's resolution, but that's because you guys already know my goal--I want to lose 30 pounds. But this is more of a half-year resolution, because my goal is to lose 30 pounds by June 30. This is slightly more doable than my last goal, and this time, I refuse to let anything get in my way!
Why the deadline? Some of you may know that I am leaving Doha at the end of this school year and moving back to the States for good. There is a lot of uncertainty in my future--where I will live, what exactly I'll be doing, how much money I will make, etc. But the next 6 months are pretty set in stone. I will live in Doha, work as a reading teacher, have access to free gyms, and have enough free time and money to make healthy meals and exercise. I'm not saying if I don't do it now, I may never do it...well, actually I am. This is the best time of my life to focus on this goal and I intend to make the most of it!
My plan is the same as before--eat well and exercise. I read a book called "Eat for Health" recommended by my sister Sapphire, and I really liked his premise. The author, Dr. Joel Fuhrman, advocates a "nutritarian" diet, in which you eat the foods that give you the most nutrients per calorie. Things like leafy greens, berries, nuts, seeds, and beans are at the top of his list. It is a mostly plant-based diet, but not strictly vegetarian or vegan. What I like about this book is that he doesn't say anything outrageous or gimmicky. He basically says, "These foods are the best for you, eat lots of them. Processed foods have few nutrients and make you sick, don't eat them."
I decided I would try this eating style for the month of January. I am sure that only good will come of it and I will keep you updated on the results! I already tried one of his recipes, a creamy zucchini soup and it is delicious!
I also made a "Wall of Motivation" for myself with quotes, an awesome collage, a weight loss chart, and a pair of pants. That's right- pants. Some people say that you should buy clothes in a smaller size so that you have something to work towards. Well, I took that one step further and hung the pants on the wall! It seems a little silly, but I have walked by them about 10 times today and thought, "Yep, I'm gonna wear those pants REAL soon!"
I realize the pants look a little huge in this pic...but I promise they're not!
It's okay to be jealous of this amazing collage I made!
Now this post is getting a little on the long side, so I'll end by wishing you all a happy and healthy new year! I am so excited for 2014 and all the potential for goodness it holds!
Pounds lost: 0
Pounds left to lose: 30
Love,
Candace
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