So how did I do it?

So after the last post, the most frequently asked question was: how did I do it?  First off, I didn't diet!  To be more accurate I made a lifestyle change.  I started really analyzing the food I was eating and how much of it I was actually eating.  I took the philosophy of calories in need to be less than calories out.  So I started to watch portion sizes and really upped my intake of fruits and vegetables instead of chips and cookies.  I didn't want to diet because they don't work in the long run.  Typically people lose weight on a diet, but then they gain it back and more.  So I didn't want to have a yo-yo effect with my weight.

The second thing I did was exercise more.  I've become sort of an exercise junkie to be honest.  I need to get my fix in at least once a day.  I typically walk, dance, lift weights and do yoga a few times a week.  Anyone interested in doing a high aerobic workout should definitely try a Bollywood dance class!!

So between the eating better and exercise I was able to shed a few pounds.

Time to start!

Well, I've made the decision to start a blog about my weight loss and my ability to keep the weight off.  In 2009 I lost 30 pounds and I didn't want to be one of those people who gained it all back (and then some).  So in an effort to make sure I keep it off, I decided to go public.  This way I would be liable if I gained the weight back as the internet is a harsh mistress.  I'll be on People of Walmart or something equally terrifying. 

So, as this is my first post I'll do a bit of an introduction... Hi, my name is Jessica and I'm a food addict.  I love food, I eat it all day and enjoy it in it's splendor and glory.  As I mentioned in 2009 I set a goal to lose 25 pounds and I ended up losing 30!  I went from a size 12 to a size 4ish (depends on the day).  I lost the weight by a variety of means: portion control, calorie counting, and exercise.  I still count calories, but I'm not as picky as I used to be about the total number of calories at the end of the day.  However, during the past year I have found a healthy addiction to exercise.  I do a variety of dance classes, walking, biking, lifting, and yoga to stay fit.  

So I'll keep everyone posted with my progress and try to post some fun things to inspire others to stay fit!