Searching for my fix

I had it in my head to get back on the Ideal Protein program as soon as I got back from Arizona.  I wasn't terrible over the  Christmas break and our southern adventures, but I certainly wasn't diligent either.  I have felt an increasing desire to feel lighter for a couple of months now, and I knew that a moment would come when I was ready to get back into the strict routine of the program.  That moment was yesterday morning.

I bucked up my courage and stepped on the scale. I was mentally prepared for 195 lbs, thinking of all the cheats in the past month.  I was pleased to see 190.6 lbs, not nearly as bad as I feared.

As luck would have it, the shop where I normally get my supplies is closed on Fridays.  I knew there was at least two other places in town that were up in Timberlea somewhere.  I had to go up there to get Junior the hedgehog anyway - he was bunking over at some friends while we were away - and according to the Internet, they would both be open.

I have to admit, that in many ways, Timberlea is like a different country to me.  I go up there when I need to, but it still feels a little unfamiliar.  I don't know the nooks and crannies as well as I should.

After picking up Junior, I went looking on Millenium Drive, but didn't see what I was looking for.  Then I went down Loutit on a mission to find the other place.  The street number I saw online didn't exist, and the shop was nowhere to be seen.  At this point, I was ready to give up.  I was hungry (I hadn't had breakfast) and I was getting frustrated with my inability to find what I was looking for.

I pulled over and reviewed what it said online and decided to call one of the numbers.

"Good morning," I said.  "Can you tell me exactly where you are?"

"Oh, we're just behind Boston Pizza."

"Great.  Thanks."

I made my way back to Millenium Drive, wondering how I possibly missed it on my first go around.  As it turned out, I didn't miss it at all, it just had a different name.

As I walked in and saw full shelves of Ideal Protein products, I felt a wave a relief and gratitude wash over me.  I would be able to start on the program after all.

Having made the shift in my mind, I was ready to start the regimen that includes cutting out carbs and sugars and increasing the intake of veggies and water.  And apart from assuaging hunger pangs with some seaweed snacks, I stayed on track and was down 3 pounds this morning.

I think the key for me will be to keep busy, and not spend too much time watching reruns of The West Wing.  I find when I'm sitting in front of the television I want to graze on something.  If I'm painting, or doing some other creative activity, I don't think about food at all.

My goal this time around will be to slip below the 175 lb mark and see how that feels.  So, if you see me sticking to the greens at the next event we attend together, you'll know why.