Drum Roll, please. . .

If you remember, I went to my doctor last week for a follow-up visit.  The initial result of that visit was that my blood pressure has returned to normal.  In addition to that, my doctor ordered blood tests to check my cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin levels, etc.  I got my results earlier this week.  EVERYTHING IS NORMAL!!  My overall cholesterol was never high, but the LDL and HDL weren't where they were supposed to be...but they are now!  And my triglycerides have been cut in HALF!  I've been so excited I can hardly stand it (and I'll bet my family and friends are rolling their eyes, too). I've seriously never felt better in my life.

Now that I'm approaching the end of my official dieting period, the planning for maintenance has begun.  In my mind it's just going to be more of the same, essentially, clean eating.  Lots of fresh veggies and fruit, lean meats and healthy carbs.  I will not, however, be depriving myself of sweets.  I'll just be in control of it...a little goes a long way (in more ways than one!).

The next big thing that must be added to the plan is exercise.  My husband (RB) has been consistently exercising since mid-April.  I've been so impressed with his commitment and gentleness with himself.  He walks every weekday Monday thru Friday and but does not walk on the weekends (or in severe thunderstorms, *whew*).  And I want to be just like RB when I grow up!  I have several other people in my life who have found exercise to be just the ticket for taking weight off and keeping it off.  I totally agree with that concept, but it's been a struggle for me to be consistent at it.  So now that I'm moving into maintenance with food, I'll be adding and shifting my focus and energy to exercising and finding what works for me.