1. I’ve been totally MIA from the blog lately.  I apologize for that.  I’m still working on losing weight and utilizing the program.  I went through about two straight weeks of being on and off program because I was pretty discouraged about some life stuff {#2}.  All in all since the last weigh in, I’m down 4 pounds.  It’s been slower because of my on/off mentality, but I’m back on track and not willing to give up.  We have lots going on this month that could derail me if I let it, so I’m planning and preparing right now.  I’m also being realistic and am okay with a 2 pound a week loss.  I’m also trying to remember this:

2. The reason I’ve been up & down?  My best friend of 15+ years is moving.  Far away from me.  To another state called Minnesota.  That I’ve never been to.  That I kinda hate right now. (:

Turns out I don’t deal with change as well as I thought I did.  I was definitely dealing with my issues by turning to food.  It was a constant fight with myself between what I wanted long term {my fundamental goal of being healthy & finally reaching my ideal weight} and what I wanted right now {to drown my sorrows in a huge handful box of nilla wafers & a pan of brownies}.  I’m not saying I’m completely out of the water and definitely don’t want to let my guard down, but I seem to have come to grips {grudgingly} with the fact that I can’t change the fact that Amber’s moving and am back on track.  This journey for me is so often 90% about my mind and my thought process.  I feel like I’m more aware this time than I’ve ever been, and am trying to tap into those moments and think about why I’m doing what I’m doing-and better yet, to stop doing them before I get out of control.

PS: I’ll be making trips to visit Minnesota soon, so if you have friends and/or family there who need a health coach, send them my way! (:

3. Made cauliflower pizza last week and fell in love.  Here is a link to the recipe I used.  This website is full of awesome recipes for peeps on TSFL.  Too lazy to click the link and check it out?  Here is the recipe for you. (:

4.  If you’re pressed for time and can’t get to the gym, but have a park next door or a backyard, check out this workout & get ‘er done!

5.  I’m advertising this month over at Eighteen25, one of my all time favorite blogs, so check it out and leave those cute sisters some love.  They share great ideas, recipes, other talented fellow bloggers, and great free printables.  There is even a special deal for first time Take Shape for Life clients if they mention the Eighteen25 blog. (: