Marshall's Losing Weight... Lots of It.

"Thank you!" to all the folks who've written to us lately to say you've noticed that I'm going through some positive changes. For those who've expressed some concern, no, I'm not sick... I'm losing the weight intentionally (and with concerted effort).

As of this week (mid-November 2008), I've lost 37 pounds. It has taken about four months to get this far. I'm hoping to lose another 15 or so in order to get back to what I weighed when I came to Columbus seven years ago. My goal is to be back at my "starting weight" by mid-January. I already feel much better, have more energy and my self esteem is improving.

Many people have asked, "What's your secret?" "What are you doing?"

I wish there was a secret. Unfortunately, there's really only one formula:
less food + more exercise = weight loss.

One thing I've been doing is keeping a food journal on a free website (http://www.fitday.com/). To be honest, when you start keeping a diary, it feels like the dumbest thing in the world. It's kind of a pain. But stick to it. You'll be amazed how educational it really is. When you look at the list of things you've been putting into your mouth, you'll be shocked by how quickly the empty calories add up.

3500 calories = 1 pound of fat.

And working out again has improved my flexibility, my cardiovascular health, my breathing... everything. It doesn't take long until you start to feel the benefits.

You're not going to win every day. Some days you fall off the bandwagon. In a big way. And that's okay. That doesn't mean you've failed. It means you're human. Just get back at it the next day. Want that pizza? Have two slices and save the rest for other meals. If you completely deny yourself the foods you enjoy, you'll be miserable... and you won't want to stick to your healthy eating plan. Allow yourself to eat the foods you crave... in moderation. And eat them knowing how they affect your body.

This has been an amazing experience so far. It has already changed my life... in a myriad ways.

The hardest part is yet to come: keeping the weight off after reaching the goal.

Thanks again for your kind words and your support. It is really appreciated!

Marshall