Diets…they’re no fun no matter what, but the pay off makes it worthwhile. Back in 2009 I gave birth to my third (and final) child. In that last month of my pregnancy I weighed roughly 175lbs. My son was born 8lbs 11oz but I left the hospital only a few pounds lighter. All I really remember is feeling like after delivery I should have weighed a lot less. I also breastfed my son like I did with my older two daughters and in my experience, I put on even MORE weight while nursing. Needless to say, it was discouraging.

It was right after my husband and I came back from vacation when I saw all the pictures of myself. I believe it was 16 months after the birth of my son, I was 4-5 pants sizes bigger than before pregnancy, and near tears every time I looked in the mirror at how fat my face was getting, that I decided to do something about it. Hating that it took me so long to do so. I’d never been on a diet before so this was completely new territory for me. I had heard about The South Beach Diet and decided THAT was the one I’d try. The first few days were hard. Between food cravings and deciding to give up caffeine at the same time, I was not the most fun to be around, but by day 6 the cravings were gone, my energy was back and I was seeing results! I lost 9lbs the first two weeks, and continued to lose 1-2lbs every week for as long as I stayed on phase 2. Even during birthdays and the holidays I managed to lose (in total) over 22lbs! So proud and fitting into my old clothes I started to cheat feeling that I had earned it. I finally considered that I was on phase 3. Not exactly at my goal but “good enough”.

So here it is, a few months after I started “phase 3″ (but allowing cheats like beer and french fries which are always a no no) and I’ve gained back 9lbs! YIKES! So I’m starting over, and this time my mother in law is doing it with me.

Today begins Day 1:
Breakfast:
2 eggs, over medium cooked in canola oil spray
2 pieces turkey bacon

AM Snack:
Baby bel light cheese

Lunch:
Salad
Romaine lettuce
Cherry tomatoes
Green pepper
Cucmber
Canned Swanson’s chicken breast
Oil and vinegar dressing

Snack:
Baby bel light cheese

Dinner:
Baked chicken breast topped with mozz cheese
Crushed tomato sauce

Dessert:
Fudge pop (no sugar added)

Beverages:
Bottled water
Decaf tea with Splenda