At the Bend

With the new year dawning a few weeks back, I began thinking about change.  There is something about the New Year that brings about the desire to start new projects and attempt to achieve new goals.  At this time of year, what is at the top of the list for New Years Resolutions?  You've got it....lose weight! I've struggled with my weight for several years, trying one fad diet after another and losing the same 25 lbs. over and over again.  Two years ago I decided that I was done with chasing the quick fix and needed to make some lifestyle changes.  I've struggled on my own the past two years slowly losing 8 lbs. and keeping it off.  Since I've kept off the 8 lbs. for a year, but was not losing anymore, I felt I needed some help in making some more lifestyle changes.  While looking for good tools to help me make healthy lifestyle changes, I came across the book Scale Down by Danna Demetre.  This book was a really a godsend.  While it stands alone as diet and health book, this title is one part of a curriculum kit that includes a DVD, CD, and workbook that utilizes all learning styles.  I first heard of Danna Demetre when I saw her on Fox Family's Living the Life. I was intrigued by her demonstration on how making small changes add up to significant weight loss.  She was not a proponent of fad diets and extreme makeovers, but she recommended small steps.  She also offers specific help to deal with the weight challenges that affect women in midlife.  After the show I ordered the book as well as the curriculum kit and I wasn't disappointed.  The book itself contains all the material that you will find in the DVD, CD, and workbook, but I found that using all the resources reinforced the lifestyles changes suggested. Danna writes from the heart and affirms that we were all created by God and that He loves us no matter what we weigh.  From there she discusses the health issues surrounding obesity and sets before the reader a plan to achieve success...not just in pounds but in a healthy lifestyle. I've been going through the program on my own.  I'm in my fourth week and have lost 3 pounds. I have not dieted; in fact, I'm eating more than I used to.  I've stepped up my activity level and am making healthier food choices, but if I eat a bag of chips, I don't beat myself up, I just take it into account when I eat my next meal. I am considering starting a group at my church and/or an online support group.  If you are interested in being apart of an online book club/support group that features Scale Down contact me at patti@beyondthebend.com I highly recommend this book and curriculum...and join a class!