Meet Dara Chadwick!

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Shape readers voted 38-year-old Dara Chadwick as this year's Weight-Loss Diarist. Click on the link to her bio, and check out her premiere column in Shape's January issue. Try one of Dara's workouts

December 07, 2007
Thanks all around
I'm going to miss many things about writing the Weight-Loss Diary, but one that stands out in particular is reading all of your comments. It's an incredibly weird thing to put your life-especially your struggle with weight-out there in front of strangers, but your encouragement has meant so much to me. You've offered great tips, boosted my confidence when I was down, and made me smile. But what I've loved most is reading about how I've inspired you to make healthy changes, too. I also want to give a shout out to new columnist, Maureen Healy: You can do it, Maureen! And finally, I'd like to express my gratitude to my wonderful support team (Pavitra, Nicole, and Melissa) and the Shape staff for this amazing year of transformation.

December 05, 2007
What's next for me?
Well, this is it...my last week as Shape's Weight-Loss Diary columnist. You may be wondering what I'll do now that I'm no longer measuring my success by the pound. I'll be keeping up my healthy habits for sure by focusing on eating right and hitting the YMCA for workouts three or four times a week. I'll also be working hard on my next project, a book about how mothers help shape their daughters' body image. It's a subject I've thought a lot about this year, and one that I'm really excited to tackle. If you'd like to know more about my book or what I'm up to, I'll be blogging a few times a week on my Web site (http://darachadwick.typepad.com/. I hope you'll visit!

November 29, 2007
Graduation day
My time as Shape's Weight-Loss Diary columnist is winding down, and I recently had my last workout with my trainer, Nicole Couto. I walked out of Gold's Gym with mixed feelings. During the past year, I've made some great friends there: people who've followed my journey and cheered my successes. It's reminded me of my graduations from high school and college; you feel sad because of what you're leaving behind and, at the same time, excited about moving on and embracing the new. Nicole has pushed me beyond what I ever thought I was capable of, and for that, I'll always be in her debt. We've shared lots of laughter and even tears (yes, I cried the first time she had me use the hyperextension machine to work my back), but through it all, I always knew she was on my side. I joined the YMCA last summer so I could work out while the kids took swimming lessons, and I've been going regularly. While Nicole won't be standing alongside me as I hit the weight room and cardio machines, she'll definitely be there with me in spirit!

November 27, 2007
'Tis the season...to be picky
Since it's the season of gratitude, I thought I'd share something I'm thankful for, even though it's a bit strange and silly. I've always hated mayonnaise, sour cream, and generally, all foods that look like mayonnaise or sour cream. Last night I attended a cocktail party organized by some local moms. The room was filled with a variety of hors d'ouevres, many of which had a mayonnaise-y look about them. If it had been a room full of desserts, I'd have been in deep temptation territory, but for once, I was grateful for my picky tastes and happily munched on fresh pineapple and a few cashews. I spent zero time thinking about which foods to avoid and instead, focused on the great company.

November 22, 2007
Piece of mind
I've noticed that when it comes to desserts, limiting myself to a modest slice of pie or cake after dinner is no problem for me. My worst dietary damage happens after the fact, when I'm left alone with temptation. As I look forward to enjoying one of my seasonal favorites-pumpkin pie-I'm working out a strategy. Since it's my turn to host Thanksgiving dinner, I'll put aside a single reasonably sized piece to enjoy later that evening when all of my guests have gone home. Then, when everyone's socializing after post-dinner dessert, I'll package up the leftovers into take-home containers for my guests. Knowing that I've got a portion-controlled holiday treat waiting for me keeps me from overindulging or feeling deprived later.

November 20, 2007
Cardio in a crunch
Last week, I blogged about how sporadic visits to the gym had me feeling out of sorts. I was time-crunched again this week, but instead of feeling guilty about what I couldn't do, I decided to focus on what I could: four solid cardio workouts. Nicole, my trainer, encourages me to "shock" my body every once in a while by skipping weights and focusing on more heart-pumping activities. So I put the dumbbells aside and did four 45-minute cardio sessions (split between the treadmill and the elliptical). I feel great, and more importantly, I'm thrilled to have regained some of my self-discipline. Next week, my schedule eases a bit, so I'll definitely be hitting the weight room again.

November 15, 2007
Going green-my way
One of the things Melissa, my nutritionist, has been pushing me to do for some time now-and it seems like every other health expert recommends it, too-is drink green tea. It's supposed to be rich in antioxidants and have a positive effect on how the body metabolizes fat. There's just one problem: I don't like it. I'm trying to keep an open mind, though, so I've been experimenting with different brands and flavors, hoping I'll find one I can tolerate. Recently, I picked up a box of St. Dalfour Organic Cinnamon Apple Green Tea, and I think I've found a winner. I doubt I'll ever love it-I'll always be a coffee girl-but it's good enough that I can down a couple of cups each day.

November 13, 2007
Learning to be flexible
A series of all-day meetings and social and family commitments has put a crimp in my food and exercise regimen for the past two weeks, a situation I'm not enjoying. I've grown accustomed to my routine of eating every couple of hours and getting to the gym for weights and cardio, and it's amazing how yucky I feel when it's disrupted. But I'm not panicking. Now that things have settled down again, I'll get back to what works: eating plenty of fruits, veggies, and protein, drinking lots of water, and doing some sort of exercise each day. I've been at this long enough to know that although my schedule may get thrown off from time to time, the damage is minimal if I get back to basics as soon as possible.

November 8, 2007
Out of sight, out of mind
One of my closest friends is a huge fan of carrot cake, so when I invited her over for coffee one morning last week, I decided to bake one for us to enjoy. But a 13 x 9-inch cake is just too big for two people to share, so I tried to get her to take some home. "No," she said firmly. "I'll just eat it." After she left, I couldn't help shaving off a small sliver and popping it into my mouth as I walked past the cake on the counter. Then, I did it again...and again. Though it pains me to see a good dessert go to waste, by mid-morning I knew it was either me or that cake. So into the trash and out the door it went; when willpower fails, it's best to take away the temptation all together.

November 6, 2007
Bring on the compliments
After nearly a year of working out, watching what I eat, and generally overhauling my physique, I find it pretty entertaining that in the last two days, no fewer than three people have said to me, "Wow, you look good. Have you lost weight?" I'm not sure what's causing the sudden burst of attention, but I'll take the kudos. I did buy some new pants in a smaller size, so maybe my progress is better reflected in my new wardrobe than in the baggy jeans I'd been wearing. Though I'm feeling a bit like my pregnant friend whose belly seemed to pop overnight, it's always nice to get noticed.

November 1, 2007
Treating myself to good health
Admit it: You've taken advantage of the sales on Halloween candy a few weeks before the holiday, only to break open the bag and devour it long before the big day. Oh, that's just me? As I've learned this past year, a new lifestyle calls for new habits. So I'll be buying my candy for trick-or-treaters the afternoon of October 31. Chances are, there may be only lousy candy left, which is just fine with me, as I'll be less tempted to reach into the bowl. After all, few things are scarier than waking up the first of November only to learn that you've eaten more candy than your kids.

October 30, 2007
Monday, Monday...
I've noticed a trend in my fitness schedule. When I make an effort to go to the gym on Monday mornings, chances are I'll get there three more times that week. But when I don't, I'm must more erratic. These first-day-of-the-week sessions seem to set the tone for the remaining six days-much in the way that sitting down with my calendar and planning out my work schedule on Sunday evening keeps me on track. Maybe it's just my control-freak personality, but to be successful, I need to feel like there's some order to my world; I'm simply not comfortable when things occur haphazardly. So I'm doing my best to keep Monday gym time sacred-no matter what the rest of the week holds.

October 25, 2007
Food on the brain
Something is going on with me lately-I can't stop thinking about food! On the treadmill at the gym, I'm picturing what I'll eat when I get home. Reps in the weight room are punctuated with thoughts of a post-workout lunch. Even my dreams have featured yummy entrees like baked potatoes and hot soup. At least the food I'm fantasizing about is healthy, and the menu planning I'm doing while working out is focused on making the best post-workout choices. It might be that the chilly fall weather is urging me to store energy for the winter. Or maybe all this nutrition education has just become so second nature that I can devise a day's worth of meals while doing other things- like walking and chewing gum at the same time. Either way, I'm calling it progress.

October 23, 2007
Shaking things up
In the interest of keeping my fitness routine fresh, I took a Zumba class at the gym yesterday. For those who haven't heard of it, it's a combination of dance and aerobics moves set to a Latin beat. I was skeptical; after all, I rarely leave a dance class feeling like I've worked as hard as I do on the elliptical or treadmill. So I was surprised to find myself drenched in sweat by the end of the class. All that hip-swiveling and shoulder-shimmying really got my heart rate up. Plus, the funky music and energy of working out in a group was a fun break from the machine monotony.

October 16, 2007
Maintaining a new status quo
Now that I've reached my goal weight, my nutritionist, Melissa, says I no longer need to create a calorie deficit (burning more calories than I take in) every single day or worry so much about eating strategically (for example, consuming my highest-carb meal after a workout) to keep my metabolism humming. Now my goal is to balance my caloric intake with my calorie output by eating healthfully and getting all my workouts in. All of a sudden, foods like whole-grain toast are okay for breakfast, and I've dropped my twice-daily protein shake. But I'm feeling guilty about this new routine, as if I'm doing something wrong. Melissa says that this is perfectly normal. It's hard to let go of that intense focus on losing weight, but I need to establish what eating for maintenance feels like. It's all about adjustment, and it's time for another.

October 11, 2007
Super-hero strength
When I was a kid, I absolutely loved the TV show The Bionic Woman, so I was thrilled when I heard that NBC was remaking it (yes, I'm a geek, but I don't care). The new version's not quite the same without the slow-motion sequences and cool "bionic noises." But to put it bluntly, the new Jaime Sommers kicks butt-she certainly can handle herself in a fight. Combat skills aside, I was most impressed with her set of one-armed pull-ups in a recent episode. While my upper body has definitely gotten stronger this year, I doubt I'll be doing any of these any time soon. Still, it's good to have something to shoot for, so every once in a while, I'm going to give myself the Bionic Woman test and try a set.

October 9, 2007
Keeping it all in perspective
Yesterday, I headed over to the University of Rhode Island's Human Performance Lab for another VO2 max test. It's designed to measure aerobic fitness-specifically, the volume of oxygen you can consume while exercising at your maximum capacity. Since having a higher V02 value means you can work out more intensely than those who are not as well conditioned, I've been thrilled to watch that number get better each time I take it. But this time, the number actually went down. The grad student who runs the lab attributed the decrease to the weeks I spent out of the gym when I was sick, but I was still bummed out. Then today, it hit me: Learning to stick with feel-good foods and exercise through the inevitable ups and downs is what this whole year has been about. What matters is that I get up the next day and make choices that will help me meet my long-term goal: an active, healthy, happy life.

October 5, 2007
A really good hair day
Last week, after having my hair cut and colored, my son gave me the most curious compliment-at least, I'm taking it as a compliment-when he saw me. He said, "You look like you're in high school or something, Mom." I don't know about the high school part, but a woman who saw my photo in Shape recently exclaimed, "You look 10 years younger!" While my first instinct was to wonder exactly how bad I looked before, the truth is, I feel 10 years younger. Thanks to regular exercise, I'm no longer dragging myself through the day, exhausted at the thought of everything I have to do. Just knowing that a workout will give me that boost helps me make time for it.

September 28, 2007
Back to business
A few recent events-a bout with food poisoning, a mad search for temporary housing, and the inevitable back-to-school adjustment period-have definitely put a crimp in my carefully planned approach to healthy eating and exercise. But this week, I got on track again, hitting the gym four times and returning to nutritious, weight-conscious meals. And I have to say, it feels great! Yes, I was still fitting in a workout here or there, but I hadn't realized how much four solid ones could boost my energy levels and ability to manage stress. The diet I've been following gives me more pep, too; even though the last few weeks were really difficult, I was reminded that making the time and effort to take care of myself makes a difference not only in how I look, but in how I feel, too.

September 26, 2007
Me, a nutrition expert?
One of the interesting things about writing this column is that you're considered something of a go-to source on all things weight loss-related. Friends are always asking me for tips about exercise and diet (though I'm sure most are disappointed when I tell them that success is mostly a matter of hard work and commitment). Lately, though, I've found myself suppressing the urge to correct people when I hear them offering information that just isn't true-for example, that eating a certain food will melt fat or that strength-training will give you "man arms." Nobody likes a know-it-all, so I limit my corrections to those who approach me directly and I try to be gentle. I wonder how many calories tongue-biting burns?

September 20, 2007
Housing crisis
After a long year of waiting, construction is finally scheduled to begin on our house next week, which means we have to get out of it - fast! I've spent the last week trying to find us a temporary place to live that isn't too far from the kids' school and other activities. Between that task, writing deadlines, and back-to-school schedule madness, I've been feeling a bit overwhelmed. Fortunately, I'm now healthy enough to get to the gym, so I'm taking out my aggression on the cardio machines. I'm trying hard to eat right, too; I've noticed that when stress hits, I suddenly want chocolate chip cookies. I know better choices like fruit and low-fat cheese will give me more energy for the array of tasks I have to accomplish, so I'm trying hard to avoid the cookie aisle.

September 18, 2007
Making up for lost time
My recent bout with food poisoning left me too weak to get to the gym for almost two weeks. I knew I'd feel the effects when I returned, but I couldn't believe how tough that first workout was. Nicole, my trainer, had me focus on triceps, chest, biceps, and shoulders. Although my weights were lighter than usual, they felt like they weighed double that amount! Still, I powered through the workout, knowing how important it is for me to get back on track. All in all, this experience was a great lesson in not letting adversity get in the way of doing what needs to be done.

September 13, 2007
The whole truth
Every so often, Melissa, my nutritionist, and I will reevaluate my eating plan in order to determine which things are working and which aren't. One of the changes she had suggested at the outset was to use whole milk rather than half-and-half in my coffee. She said I'd save myself lots of fat and calories and wouldn't miss much in taste. Though I tried to make the switch, I'll be honest: I love my morning caffeine with cream! So I quietly went back to half-and-half without saying anything to her. Last week, we were going over some of the changes I'd made over the last few months, and when Melissa mentioned using whole milk in my coffee, I shook my head slowly (I'm a terrible liar, so why try?). She was shocked when I told her my secret, and I ended up promising to give whole milk another try. If it doesn't stick this time, however, it's not the end of the world. After all, for a diet to work in the long haul, you have to enjoy what's on your plate-and in your mug!

September 11, 2007
6 ways I stay on track
Committing to a year-long weight-loss plan sounds easy...until you realize that the plan is a year long! When my motivation is flagging, I rely on one or more of these trusty tricks to get me going again.

Try on an old pair of pants. I know the "expert" advice is to get rid of clothes that no longer fit, but I've held onto one pair of jeans that were really tight when I started this program. When I need to remember what all this work is for, I slip into those jeans and let myself to feel good about all that empty space.
2. Mix up my playlists. For example, I've recently started listening to the live version of Van Halen's "Right Now" during the last five minutes of a tough workout.

3. Do a cardio circuit. If a machine is boring me on a given day, I'll do 10 minutes, then head for another one to change things up.

4. Sample a new fitness class. Doing this once a week allows me to see some fresh faces and workout styles.

5. Treat myself to a favorite food. If I've been sticking to my eating plan and getting in all my workouts for the week, I'll reward myself with a guilt-free slice of pizza or a small sundae.

6. Partake in some retail therapy. It doesn't have to be something expensive; a new workout shirt or cookbook can give me a boost when I'm starting to lose steam.

September 6, 2007
Snack-free stress relief
Normally, I'm not much of a night-time eater, but when I've got a lot on my mind, I've noticed I'm more likely to reach for something to nibble on. Fortunately, the cooler temperatures of the approaching fall season have let me indulge in a new comfort habit that's much less damaging to my diet: knitting. There's something mesmerizing about the click of the needles and the feel of the yarn in my hands. I'm not very good yet; right now, I'm working with straight lines (think scarves and throws). But I've been invited to join a local knitting group, which will hopefully help me learn a few tricks, build a few friendships, and keep my hands too busy to munch when I actually just need to unwind.

September 4, 2007
Carried away with my workout
Ever have one of those embarrassing moments where you feel like all eyes are on you? I was on the treadmill at the gym yesterday, walking on an incline. I've added running intervals to my workout, so I upped the speed on the treadmill to 5.7, which had me going at full effort (hey, I've got short legs!). I was working so hard that I didn't notice that my MP3 player, which had been clipped to the waistband of my shorts, had dislodged itself and swung away from my body with such force that the headphone jack popped out and the player flew across the room and hit the mirror. I tried to be cool as I paused the machine and stepped off to retrieve it, but let's just say that the red in my cheeks wasn't just from running hard.

August 30, 2007
Money well spent
I'm taking advantage of the cooler mornings and evenings lately by adding an outdoor walk-run combo to my workout mix. After all, who wants to stare at the elliptical machine's timer when she could be listening to birds and smelling the fresh air? I've decided to follow every four minutes of brisk walking with a one-minute interval of running to boost the calorie burn and challenge my endurance, with the goal of increasing the running time each week. Already, though, I've got a problem: My knees hurt! Nicole, my trainer, says I need to replace my sneakers yet again, but I've been putting it off. Still, one more go-round on the pavement might just have me heading to the sporting goods store. Justifying this purchase won't be hard, though; I'm investing in the health of my knees-and my body.

August 28, 2007
Raising my nutrition I.Q.
I love "back to school" season. It's a great time to set new goals and review what you've learned. Just yesterday, I encouraged both of my kids to have a little protein-for example, some string cheese or a yogurt-before we headed out for a double-header softball day. They were both enraptured (really!) by my explanation of how protein would offer sustained energy after their morning carbohydrates (waffles) had burned off. After listening politely to my mini nutrition lecture, my son said, "Boy mom, you sure have learned a lot about food." He's right; I have learned a lot about how to fuel my body. And because of that, I'm making better choices every day. But I'm sure the kids are already worried about what'll show up in their lunchboxes next week!

August 23, 2007
Taking my skills on the road
This weekend, we attended our annual camping trip with 24 other members of my extended family. As per our custom, everyone pooled the food they brought, transforming each meal into a grand buffet. A pre-trip snafu with our work schedules limited my planning time, so I wasn't able to think through what I'd be eating. Still, I tried hard to forgo the worst choices-like the deep-fried chicken someone made-for good-for-me foods like turkey bacon, scrambled eggs (lots of protein!), grilled chicken, and green beans. It wasn't easy, but being removed from the comforts of home-and the convenience of my nearby supermarket-was a great opportunity to put my newfound nutrition knowledge to the test. Overall, I'm pleased with the choices I made, and even treated myself to a s'more one night while sitting around the fire. After all, I was camping!

August 21, 2007
For the love of food
During a recent get-together, my brother complimented me on my weight loss and joked that "If I got any skinnier, I'd disappear." But later, he turned serious and asked, "So, do you get any enjoyment out of food anymore?" His question amused me because, like many people who hear I'm writing Weight Loss Diary, he assumed that I'm following some rigid starvation program. But I'm not! I'm simply making healthier choices, opting for veggies instead of French fries and lean turkey instead of cheeseburgers. I'm also eating a wide variety of fresh, flavorful foods that, in addition to helping me lose weight, give me more energy. So the answer to my brother's question was a big, fat "Yes!" When you think about it, is there anything more enjoyable than looking and feeling your best?

August 16, 2007
Seeing is believing
Sometimes, it's the little victories that mean the most. In my tiny kitchen, we have to pull the table out from the wall so that all four of us can sit around it for dinner. Since I usually take my seat last, I'm the one who has to squeeze into the relatively narrow space between the wall and the table. Last night, as I slid easily into my chair, my son said, "Hey, Mom, that's a good way we can tell if you're losing weight." We all laughed, but actually, he's right. Whether it's easing into my place at the table, buttoning my formerly tight jeans, or having to buy a smaller-size swimsuit (I did!), these visual indicators of my progress are way more fun than stepping on the scale.

August 14, 2007
Shop and chop
On Sunday nights when I return home from grocery shopping, I now spend a half hour or so chopping vegetables (peppers, broccoli, cucumbers, carrots, etc.), divvying them up into half-cup servings, and placing in re-sealable plastic bags. Why do I torture myself this way? Because Melissa, my nutritionist, now has me eating 10 servings (yes, that's five cups!) of vegetables each day, and I know that if I don't cut up a few days' worth at a time, chances are I'll be too busy to do it later. My veggie-rich diet has my metabolism running super-efficiently, but I'm sick of all the prep work! I guess I should look on the bright side, though: If writing doesn't work out for me, I'm on my way to a career as a sous chef.

August 9, 2007
My new support network
Next week marks the fourth anniversary of my mother's death, and it's got me thinking. She was always the one I turned to when things got hard, and I felt lost when she was gone. But as I've shed pounds this year, I've gained something else: inner strength. When I'm unsure these days, I know I can find the help I need. When I'm feeling down, I reach out to others who understand what I'm going through (like reading the many comments you readers have posted). And when I'm discouraged, I remind myself of all the weights lifted, miles run, and crunches completed-things I thought I couldn't do anymore, but have since rediscovered. Though this day may be tough on me, I won't turn to food for comfort; instead, I'll count on my circle of support and tough inner core.

August 7, 2007
On a roll
As we drove home from a family workout at the YMCA today, the conversation turned to how hungry we all were. When I suggested turkey sandwiches for lunch, my son said, "Okay, Mom. But can I have mine on a hamburger bun? I really hate that bread you bought." "Yeah, mom," my daughter chimed in. "It tastes like it was made out of wood chips." While my quest to find a fiber-rich whole-grain bread that everybody likes has obviously failed, it did generate a hilarious list of all the uses to which we could put the remaining slices. My daughter suggested using them as sponges, while my husband thought they'd make good floor tiling. My personal favorite? Using the dense loaves to do biceps curls. Guess I'll be buying a different brand next week. Can anyone recommend a tasty whole-grain bread?

August 2, 2007
Short and sweet
I've gotten a real boost from reading all the comments to this blog lately-especially the ones from the women who say they "look just like me" and are inspired to see someone who reflects them in the pages of Shape. It's true; women who are five feet tall don't usually appear in the pages of women's magazines. But knowing that so many of you face the same challenges that I do-not just being vertically challenged, but juggling a career, family, and gym routine-is really motivating me to finish strong. As I've become fit and shed some pounds, I've adjusted my expectations of what losing this weight will mean in my life. No, it won't make me problem-free, richer, or a better mother. But it's given me the satisfaction of knowing that I've done everything in my power to be the best me I can be. And that makes me feel 10-feet tall!

July 31, 2007
Climb every mountain
During our last workout, my trainer, Nicole Couto, taught me a new exercise called "mountain climbers." Essentially, you get into push-up position. You bring your right foot up on the floor near your right hand, then quickly switch legs and bring your left foot toward your left hand. As you get the hang of it, both legs are moving at the same time. She had me do three sets of 12 reps, alternating weight sets in between. The goal, she said, was to elevate my heart rate. It did that and then some-three days later, my quads are still sore! Since my legs are strong, it's rare that I feel much post-workout soreness, but these were killer. Try them-you'll like them! Okay, so you won't like them, but you'll definitely like the results.

July 26, 2007
Sanity-saving suppers
Thanks to those readers who suggested cooking brown rice or whole wheat pasta ahead of time for quick dinners on those crazy summer softball nights. When I think of convenience foods, take-out or frozen items generally come to mind. But with a little pre-planning I can easily make my own convenience meals that can be re-heated whenever we return home from my kids' games. I simply add some fresh veggies and pre-grilled chicken, and I've got a healthy meal in minutes. In addition to saving time and money, this strategy will spare me some of that "Is dinner ready yet?" whining.

July 24, 2007
Ticket to good health
We went to see the new Harry Potter film the other day, and decided to treat ourselves to some popcorn as well. I expected my husband to return with a small-size bag for us to share, but instead, he brought back what I can only describe as a vat. When he saw the look on my face, he sheepishly said, "It was a combo. It was cheaper." Since the movie was starting, I couldn't lecture him right then about the real cost of eating that much calorie- and fat-laden popcorn. It got me thinking, however, about the decisions I make at the grocery store. Processed food can be tempting because you can get large quantities as a discounted price. But I keep reminding myself that while a fatter wallet is good, a fatter me is not.

July 19, 2007
Making cravings work for me
My nutritionist, Melissa, and I were discussing food cravings last week-one of our favorite topics. As I waxed poetic about Italian food, it suddenly hit me: It's not the pasta I love so much as it is the sauce. A good marinara is like ice cream to me. Melissa suggested that I spoon it over fresh vegetables instead of pasta-a strategy that will not only help me curb my carb intake, but meet my three-cups-a-day goal for veggies. So earlier this week, I made a big pot of sauce, and when I got home from the gym today, I served myself a heaping bowl of lightly sautèed zucchini, red and green peppers, onions, and mushrooms smothered in sauce. It was fabulous, and I truly didn't miss the pasta!

July 17, 2007
Staying on track
Despite my best efforts to stick with the program this summer, I've let a few of my new diet and exercise habits fall by the wayside. So I've decided to get back into the healthy swing of things again by emphasizing the basics: four solid 45-minute cardio workouts each week, along with three strength-training sessions. As for my diet, I'm upping my fluids, including drinking a giant class of water before my morning coffee, and making sure I have at least three cups of vegetables and one protein shake per day. This plan should help me stay focused and feel my best during these hectic summer weeks.

July 12, 2007
Total confusion
Not sure how it's possible, but even though I lost three pounds, my body fat percentage went up this month from 28.5% to 29%. True, it was just a tiny amount, but it still was a little disappointing. At first I blamed my erratic eating schedule these past few weeks and the last-minute pizza I had the night before my weigh-in. But then I reminded myself that numbers don't tell the whole story. Just in case, though, I'm going to be a little more careful this month!

July 10, 2007
On the road again
My biggest challenge lately has been dealing with inconsistent weekend eating. My daughter's playing on a travel softball team, so we've spent the last two weekends driving to tournaments, with several more to go. Games are scheduled according to whether they win or lose their first game. Healthy eating is a challenge when you're not sure if you'll have a two-hour break between games (and no time to get home to eat) or if you'll play three games back to back (and have no time to go out for a bite). Add to this a husband who refuses to eat sandwiches packed ahead of time and you've got a recipe for dietary disaster. This weekend, I'm cutting up fruits and vegetables, stocking my cooler with water and healthy snacks like string cheese and pita chips, and finding out what restaurants are in the area so I can pre-plan my meals.

July 5, 2007
Red-hot me
This weekend, I had a wedding to attend, and in my typical last-minute fashion, I waited until three days before the event to shop for a dress. Normally, I’d choose something muted that covered as much of me as possible. But when I searched the racks at the store, I found a beautiful red halter dress with beading along the top and thought, “What the heck. I’ve been working hard.” It looked great in the fitting room, but did I dare? Before I could chicken out, I bought the dress and drove straight to my tailor for alterations (everything I wear has to be shortened!). I picked it up four hours before the wedding – no time for cold feet. When my husband saw me in it, he said, “Wow.” That reaction made all those gym hours well worth it.

July 3, 2007
Words of inspiration
At my son’s baseball game last week, a friend of mine introduced me to one of the other mothers. When she heard my name, I saw a flash of recognition on her face. “Are you the one who writes the Shape column?” she asked. When I told her I was, she complimented my writing, told me I was brave, and said she looks forward to reading Weight Loss Diary each month. Hearing from readers always gives me a lift, especially when someone says I’ve inspired her in some way. It’s not easy to put yourself out there, but it’s fulfilling to know that what I write gets people talking about their bodies and their health. I love knowing that I’ve made women like me feel that they have the power to make healthy changes in their lives.

June 26, 2007
Girls gone wild
Last winter, I wrote about attending my high school reunion, and the subsequent plan to get together every few months with my three high-school girlfriends. Last night, we managed to pull off our second outing of the year, gathering for dinner at a local restaurant. Temptations abounded, and I have to confess that though I had grilled turkey for my entrée, I gave in to both wine and post-dinner ice cream (which wasn't my idea- the enabler knows who she is!). Here's hoping that what I gained in calories, I burned off in laughter. The evening may not have been good for the diet, but it sure was good for the soul!

June 22, 2007
In the swim
Ever have a flash of brilliance where you come up with appears to be the perfect solution to a problem? That's where I am right now. Staring down the barrel of summer vacation, I've been desperate to put some kind of schedule in place so I know I'll have time to fit in my workouts and my freelance writing — along with plenty of fun with the kids, of course. Both of them love the water, so when I realized they could be in the same twice-weekly swim class at the YMCA while I hit the cardio room, I did a little celebration dance. They're happy in the pool, and I'm happy knowing I've got two weekly exercise sessions in place until school starts again in September.

June 19, 2007
Back to basics
With my busy work schedule, the kids' baseball games, end-of-year school activities, and various appointments, my workouts have taken a nosedive recently. I made it to the gym three times last week and power-walked on two other days, but incorporating two 30-minute cardio sessions into my daily routine (which Nicole said would jumpstart my metabolism and help me reach my goal weight) just isn't happening. That means I'm getting only 30 minutes of daily cardio instead of my regular 45 minutes-a significant deficit by the end of the week. I've decided to abandon the split-session plan until activities wind down for the school year. My hope is that going back to my original regimen, with strength-training sessions followed by 45-minutes of cardio, will help me regain focus and get back on track.

June 14, 2007
Setting summer hours
School's out for the summer next week, and the change in seasons has gotten me thinking about one thing: revamping my schedule. This is always a tricky time of year for our family because I write from home, and it takes effort to distinguish between work and play time. My new commitment to fitness adds another challenge to the mix. Fortunately, the YMCA family membership we recently purchased will enable the kids to swim and play basketball while I hit the gym. But, as with my work hours, I can't leave exercise to chance. I'll set a non-negotiable schedule that factors in my four weekly workouts. Summer's a time to let go and unwind, but taking a vacation from this healthy habit won't do me-or my family-any favors.

June 12, 2007
Divide and conquer
As I get closer to my weight-loss goal of 125 pounds, my progress seems to be getting slower. (I've been losing about a pound a month.) That's normal, says Nicole, my trainer at Gold's Gym. As my body becomes more fit, visible results require more of an effort. This week, she suggested that I jumpstart my metabolism by splitting my workout into two sessions. Normally, I hit the gym for about 45 minutes of cardio four times a week. Now, I'll follow my strength-training workouts with just 30 minutes of cardio. Then, in the evening, I'll walk, run, or head back to the gym for another 30 minutes of cardio. Finding two windows to exercise each day will be the real challenge, but if it helps me meet my goal, I'll find a way to do it.

June 8, 2007
When life sends you chocolate...
You know that karmic theory in which the universe will keep presenting you with the same difficult situations until you finally learn your lesson? I think it's trying to teach me about balance-in particular, the balance between maintaining the discipline I need to achieve my goal and allowing myself a well-deserved treat. This week, a chocolate company sent me a big box of samples for a food story I'm writing, and my daughter baked her first batch of chocolate-chip cookies all by herself (at my mother-in-law's house). In an effort to do the right thing without depriving myself, I sampled a few pieces of the chocolate and sent the rest off to my husband's office for his coworkers. And the cookies? I tried one (OK, three-No one said this lesson was easy!) and congratulated my daughter on a job well done.

June 5, 2007
Strength in numbers
Unless I'm scheduled to work with my trainer, Nicole Couto, I usually do my strength-training workouts solo at Gold's Gym. I have a challenging routine, but it can get a little monotonous and sometimes a bit lonely. So this week, I decided to try something different: A body sculpting class at a local YMCA. What a fun change of pace! Not only did I draw energy from the instructor and others in the class, I also really enjoyed lifting weights to music. (Usually I only wear my headphones during my cardio sessions.) My muscles responded well to the change, too-I was pretty sore the next day! Now I know that new faces or even different music can put the pep back in my workout.

May 25, 2007
My new mantra
Lately, I've had moments where I've wondered if I'm going to be able to reach my goal of shedding 25 pounds this year. The weight is still coming off, but progress has slowed to what feels like a snail's pace. When I met with Melissa, my nutritionist, last week, I asked her if she thought I'd accomplish what I've set out to do. "You will if you want to" was her reply. It was a real moment of clarity-I'm fit now, but as my body adapts to each change, I've got to keep pushing. When doing so feels difficult, I must dig deep to find the motivation to stay the course. You can bet I'll keep Melissa's words in mind next time my resolve falters. Thanks for the kick in the pants, Melissa!

May 23, 2007
Proof of my progress
As Shape's Weight-Loss Diary columnist, I track my efforts in a variety of ways. The most technical: a VO2 max test. Designed to measure your body's ability to take in and use oxygen during exercise, the test involves breathing through your mouth into a tube--your nose is pinched off with a clip--as you walk or run on a treadmill until you're exhausted. If it sounds uncomfortable, that's because it is! Still, it's a good indicator of how my hard work in the gym is paying off. Since I started working out, my numbers have gone from 33.4 ml/kg/min to 41.2 ml/kg/min--a 25 percent improvement. Now, I'm fitter than 80 percent of the women in my age group! I want to thank Deb, Ashley, and Ryan at the University of Rhode Island's Human Performance Lab for always making me laugh, cheering me on, and encouraging me to keep pushing myself just a bit harder!

May 17, 2007
Savoring the season
Lately, the weather has been gorgeous, and there's nothing like long, sunny days to send my family straight for our favorite foods. A few days ago, I decided I'd treat myself to fried fish and chips at a local clam shack; last night, we all went out for ice cream. Those surely weren't the healthiest choices, but I'm learning to be less rigid. It's been months since I've eaten that way, and truthfully, I paid the price for it: The fish tasted good, but after so many months without fried foods, the grease upset my stomach. Though uncomfortable, the feeling was a reminder that my body runs most efficiently and feels best when I stick to the new healthy habits I've developed. The ice cream, on the other hand, was absolutely delicious; I enjoyed every bite. And that's what a once-in-a-while indulgence should be all about.

May 15, 2007
Saying goodbye to Mr. Goodbar
For about a month now, my son's Easter candy has been sitting on top of the refrigerator. All my favorites were in there, in miniature: Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, Mr. Goodbars, white chocolate Nestle bars. Each day, I successfully resisted the urge to take one. Then, yesterday morning, when I realized my son hadn't even asked for the candy in weeks, I decided to toss the entire stash in the trash. No one needs temptation like that! But wouldn't you know it: Last night, my son asked for a piece. I had to tell him I threw it away, and when I saw his sad little face, I felt like the worst mom in the world. Tomorrow, I'll treat him to a candy bar after baseball practice, but I won't ask for a bite.

May 10, 2007
Dinner of Champions
I may love tuning in to see my beloved Boston Red Sox, but major league baseball doesn't compare to watching the Tornados or the Tigers--my kids' teams--take the field. Little League innings can be endless, though; a game that starts at 5:15 PM gets us home close to 8. By that time we're all famished, and we often turn to quick but not-quite healthy foods (like burgers and hot dogs) we can just throw on the grill. Now that we're in the third week of the season, it's time for me to try another round of menu re-arranging. I've picked up a few do-ahead ideas - like the whole-wheat and chicken sausage calzones I made last week and froze - but I'm in the market for some other recipes that will satisfy athletes and sports fans alike. Any suggestions?

May 8, 2007
The fruits of my labor
When I started writing Shape's Weight-Loss Diary column, I made it clear that slimming down was my commitment. As much as I'd like my husband and kids to develop healthier eating habits, I wasn't going to force the issue with them. Still, I hoped that they'd learn by my example. It's been a slow process; though I don't buy many cookies and sugary treats anymore, the kids want them. So imagine my delight when my 10-year-old daughter went to get a snack for her backpack yesterday and said, "Mom, can I take this banana even though it's the last one?" Today she grabbed an orange. We may be tracking my success by the number of pounds I lose, but this little victory is the sweetest by far.

May 3, 2007
TV epiphany
I recently made my television debut when a local station ran a piece about me writing the Weight-Loss Diary column. After the crew came to the gym and filmed the interview, I became really nervous that I'd come across onscreen as a dowdy, bumbling fool. But when the segment finally aired, I couldn't have been more shocked by how poised and polished I seemed. It got me thinking about how hard I am on myself and about how disconnected my self-image can be from what other people see. It's sort of like the way I continue to search through size 12 pants at the department store, even though I now wear a size 8. I'm changing, and it's high time I acknowledged it.

May 1, 2007
Getting off track
Though I've been making great progress with my weight-loss endeavors, I have to admit that I was really unprepared for the eating challenges I faced last weekend, when I was in New York City for an annual journalists' conference. The organizers served salmon--which I despise--for lunch on Friday, so I skipped it and ate a piece of chocolate cheesecake instead. Breakfast the next morning was a dry muffin, and thanks to my travel schedule, dinner was a bowl of Trix cereal. Though the overall calorie damage may not have been catastrophic, I felt sluggish and cranky all weekend, and I had a pounding headache. The time away made me realize that I've gotten used to eating a lot more protein and eating every few hours. Food really does affect the way that I feel. Now that I'm back home and on track--eating egg whites, veggies, and yogurt and drinking lots of water--I feel like myself again.

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