a new challenge

I have been proud to have lost the little bit of weight I have.
I have been prouder to maintain that loss.

I have integrated high fiber foods into my diet.
I use only olive oil. 
I typically eat the recommended serving amount of vegetables/fruits.

So this year when I had my blood tests done for insurance purposes at work, I was pretty confident that my results would show some positive changes.

ONE result came back better.  I had dropped my triglyceride level by 100 points from last time!
However, my blood sugar was 103 (not terrible, but something to watch) and my cholesterol...well let's just say it wasn't awesome.

After a doctor's appt yesterday, I was reminded about my results.  Apparently, for a 28 year old my cholesterol is pretty bad.  And yes...those were his words.  "Wow...that's pretty bad".

SO I have been given three months to lower this cholesterol.  I guess I have a lot of research to be doing to see what foods will help lower (although I thought high fiber/whole grains were supposed to help) the overall cholesterol so that I don't have to start taking medication for it.

I would rather not be on a ton of medications, but he is almost certain at this point because of my age and weight loss that if that number stays the same or gets higher I can thank my family genetics.

This all comes at a time when I was already thinking about the struggles I would face at Thanksgiving and Christmas.  NOW I have to try even more.

It will all work out. 
Just something new to face head on and conquer.

Leveled off in time for the Holiday season

I have leveled off at 174.  That's my average anyway.

I have maintained---which is AWESOME!

Whenever I have "dieted" before the weight came back on in the blink of an eye.  Not this time (thank God!)

With fall weather changing and delicious holidays on the way I am nervous about the willpower to control portions.  You can eat ANYTHING as long as you portion correctly and balance your diet appropriately.

I'm worried that with Halloween I will try to say that Twizzlers are fruit, Snickers have protein!

And at Thanksgiving, am I really going to argue when my sweet potatoes are covered in marshmallows and sugar?

Will I refuse a sweet gift of Christmas fudge?
No.  That's just rude.


Oh the Holidays are my favorite time of year.
but it is also my nemesis.

I love traditions.
but I am not a fan of the tradition I have with gaining massive amounts of pounds every holiday season.