I am still not very good at writing down what I eat, but I do believe having it open next to me does make me more aware of what I am putting in my mouth. I often will record small goals or things that I would like to work on changing. Although, I do not always use it for what it was intended, I have benefited from it.

So, for the month of August I lost the 2 stubborn pounds that I had regained and 3 more pounds. I would have liked to get 2 more pounds off, but what I have learned is that being critical of your progress is asking for trouble. For me, as long as the scale is going the right direction, it is a good month. I have found that as long as I hold myself accountable, but do not put undue pressure on myself I will lose weight.

Now for September. I have lost 2 pounds this month and am hoping to lose about 3 more. I avoided the Ohio State trough yesterday and as of right now I do not have any big plans for the game that include food.

I am thinking about having a bacon, egg and cheese McGriddle this morning. This was something I used to eat several times a week and when I made the decision to try to live healthier, I went down to eating them only on the weekends. I rationalized that because I exercise more, it was okay and I was losing weight. But I in recent weeks, I have cut that back. It has probably been 3 weeks since I have enjoyed the favorite food. They have 450 calories and actually play havoc with my sugar levels, but I do not seem to have problems with them, if I eat them right before I walk. So with that being said, it is time to go to the park and walk before it rains.

I am on the computer many hours a day, so I can keep this form on a jump drive and update it as need be. I think this journal will help me identify problem areas.

I already know one major problem area and that is my place of employment. That place has more food than a restaurant and unfortunately the areas where this food is placed is not far from where I sit. I am trying to find effective ways of avoiding it or dealing with it. With my compulsive eating habits, I can eat anytime. Hunger is not a requirement.

Saturday is the first Ohio State game and I have already received and email from the administrative assistant announcing the Friday tailgate festivities. What this basically means is that there will be junk food available all day and it will be located about 2 steps away from where I sit. This is going to be a tough one. If I could, I would take the day off. But that is only a temporary solution. There will be several more of these things before football season ends. I have about 2 days to come up with a plan of action and there is no guarantee that I will be able to follow it. I will let you know how I do.