Day 20 of Challenge

Last time I went through the challenge I found that by the second week I no longer craved beer. This time it is more difficult but not to the point that I am close to quiting. I have been to a bar or function at least 6 times since the challenge started. I received an email while sitting in the pub last night sipping diet coke, from my Edmonton lawyer. Without knowing I was on the wagon, he indicated that he was going through his own dry period and finding it very difficult. He is well known for enjoying a few pints. I have ran into several people on a January dry spell including the man that inspired my original effort James Giffen. My challenge extends well into February.

I have been eating well since Jan. 1st. At lunch I have been primarily eating sushi or very small sandwiches on whole wheat. I'm talking half sandwiches or wraps. On Friday after a long lunchtime walk, which has become the norm, I had a craving for a roast beef sandwich at Eat Fresh. There is no doubt this sandwich would break all the rules. Out of nowhere Ana Maria sprung into action. I was in a long line in the north Eaton Centre food court. Bearing a sensible salad, AM scolded me for lining up in the sandwich line. Head down in shame I abandoned the line and slumped toward the sushi aisle. I was caught red handed cheating myself.

I want to thank both H sisters for inspiring me to stay the course. In another moment of weakness I was considering changing the challenge to January only, Mariana talked me out of it. Stick to the original goal. After a recent weigh in I know I have to complete the full 50-days. I then have to stick to the food changes long-term to keep the weight off. No binge drinking. Dawn and Bereza in my office have helped as well. Bereza has not tried to lure me down to the pub in our building during the week. On Fridays I attend but stick to diet soda. My Mom recommended I find a tasty non-alcoholic beverage which I think is a good idea. Diet soda is not good for you either.

Today I have already completed over 8,000 steps prior to 11AM. I ran on the treadmill and lifted weights. The weight loss has been slow to take effect but I'm trending in the right direction. I'm consuming way less calories and greatly increasing my exercise. I can't help but lose weight. I'm well ahead of my goal of 600,000 steps in 50-days.