So, after 11 weeks of fitness training, I'm happy to report that I've reached my goal! I had my followup DEXA scan yesterday, and I've lost 10 pounds of fat and gained 4 pounds of muscle! It's a great feeling to be back in clothes that I couldn't even zip up a couple of months ago. I had reached a point where I thought it was an impossible task, but thanks to regular workouts and adjusting my eating habits, I was able to get back in shape. I've always been the type who could eat whatever I wanted and never gain an ounce, but over the last few years, that changed. I gained weight so gradually that it never really occurred to me to change my habits until the fateful day when I tried to squeeze into a dress that used to be a loose fit, and I couldn't even zip it up half way! I had lulled myself into a false sense of security with stretch jeans and baggy shirts, so the dress incident really slapped me with a dose of reality. I decided there and then to enroll in the fitness program offered at my place of employment, and I'm really glad I did. Not only did I lose the weight (and inches!) but I am more energetic and feel healthier. I've also learned to eat healthier foods, and not rely on quick and easy processed foods so much. And my snacking habits have changed as well. I used to keep a bag of dried fruit under my desk, but instead of just having a small portion, I would eat handfulls of the stuff! Fruit is healthy, right? Well, yes, but dried fruit has as many calories as candy! Yikes! I've also learned that I don't have to give up everything I like, I just have smaller portions. It has made a big difference in the way I look and feel. Our class comes to an end this week, and I'm hoping I don't backslide. But you know, I don't think I will because I want to stay fit and healthy, so I'm sure my new habits will keep me on the straight and narrow. Besides, my daughter and her family are moving back to Texas, and I want to be able to keep up with the grandkids!