Something NEW.... something Ideal

Last Wednesday (May 4) I began a NEW diet program called Ideal Protein and although it is tough I am really excited about it! It works sort of like a high protein diet combined with nutri-system and a coach that requires a high commitment level. The program provides 2 high protein, low calorie meals and a snack and then allow you to make one of your own meals with protein and vegetables. No carbs and no sugar- which for me really is the toughest part. You report back weekly for weigh in and measurements, to discuss how you did and to get the next weeks meal. There is NO CHEATING tolerated. You cheat they tell you to come back when you are ready, period.

My sister and I are working this program together and it helps so much to have a partner in this. She is one week ahead of me so is able to give me heads up and knows what I may be experiencing and helps me through it (thanks sis!) Honestly, it is not easy. These 5 days have been tough, but doable! The provided food isn't necessarily exciting but (most) of it is ok to yummy for what it is. The great thing is I am learning to pay attention to what I eat, to make better food choices and to cook new and healthier things- all of which will help me long after I no longer am on the diet!!

These past 5 days:

• I have not given in or cheated on the program and except for a few learning mistakes and I am following as best I can to the program.
• I drank 64+ ounces of water each day (and when you gotta pee you GOTTA pee lol)
• Have tried new no sugar, no carb, no/low calorie dressings and dips
• Cooked and ate red and yellow peppers (those were a HECK NO before)
• Tried cauliflower "popcorn"
• Made cauliflower mash (um this still needs some trial and error lol)

In the beginning I was feeling pretty grouchy and tired and found myself thinking only of the food I was missing. With encouragement from many people, but especially my sister who knew exactly what I was feeling I got through it to Sunday. And Sunday was a-m-a-z-i-n-g, kind like a "hump day" in the week! I am not entirely sure what happened but I felt so happy that day and fairly content- it might have been the coffee a little secret my sister introduced me too :-)

And as of today I am doing well and looking forward to my appointment Wednesday with fingers crossed for good news. I know there will be days the food will get boring and I will want to give up or my goal will feel so far away, but I just KNOW that I can do this, especially with so many cheering me on and my sis right here in the trenches with me.

“Only as high as I reach can I grow, only as far as I seek can I go, only as deep as I look can I see, only as much as I dream can I be.”

~Karen Ravn~