And now.. Malissa A.

I figured I should introduce myself too. I am a mom to two adorable and dramatic kids and wife to Derick. Last week, today at 5:30, I became one organ lighter- my gall bladder. I am trying to heal and recover, but find it difficult to do because I am a social beast.
In the days when I HAD a gall bladder, I was training for a marathon- to the point where I had already completed my expected 20+ mile runs, and it was three weeks away (October 10th). I had to let go of accomplishing that goal, and defer my entry. I am really trying not to be bitter, but it is difficult! I have been consoling myself with silly knitting projects and lots of reading.

Thank goodness my surgery kinda took my appetite away, because I am usually a big time over eater. After years of working with a nutritionist, I am going to strive to balance portion and eating times as my "good eating" - I have not done well in these challenges in the past because I am unwilling to go to drastic means that will not realistically be part of my day to day life. I know I will use sweetner in some form, and some type of flour and fat as well, but intend to use them better. I am a firm believer in calories and quality. I can eat less and better with slow churned ice cream than two pieces of toast and jam.

I often find myself motivated by deadlines, expectations and the support of others, so I figured this challenge could be fun. Using a blog to report will be a new switch as well. Best of luck everyone!