A step back or still ahead?

Copied from my blog on SparkPeople.

Last year we had some stress that knocked me off my exercise and nutritional plans. I had been doing great and was less than 10 lbs from my goal. However during this time of stress (strongest from early February though late March 2009), I gained 15 lbs. Once we got through this rough time, that initial stress was replaced with the stress of weight gain and elevated glucose levels. I was almost certain that my summer doctor appointment would bring me a higher A1c and possibly medication for my diabetes. To my surprise, my A1c was actually lower. What a relief!

However I still had the issue of the weight gain from earlier in the year. I'm definitely one that wants instant gratification. I don't like waiting for anything! Then I looked at the big picture - I was still 20 lbs lighter than my heaviest weight. Wasn't that something to be proud of? Yeah, my jeans were snug, but they were still a few sizes smaller than what I had been wearing.

I'm down five pounds from last year's high. I'm frustrated that I'm still about 10 lbs heavier than I was a year ago, but I'm about 25 lbs lighter than where I was two years ago and I only have about 20 lbs left to go. Isn't that something to be proud of? Hubby and I are trying to get back into a regular exercise routine. Tonight we both went to our local YMCA. I have been participating in a Zumba class while he has been riding the stationary bike. I love when we work out side-by-side, but it's also great that we encourage each other to do the exercise the other enjoys even if it's not the same thing.

My goal is to get back to where I was last year by my 40th birthday in two months. With the support of my family and with help from God, I should have no problem reaching this goal!