What this is all about

I have tried a number of diets over the years and never lasted more than a week or so. The problem was that I didn't know how to cook my old favorites in a healthy way. Instead I was discouraged by bland foods and gave into my cravings. As the weight kept adding on health issues began to creep up including high cholesterol , high blood pressure and back pain. I know I cannot continue on being overweight and am determined to get down to a healthy weight. In order to do this I've made this as simple as I possibly can. I try to keep my calorie intake at 1,6000 a day.( As weight comes off this number will have to be adjusted but this is what works for me at the moment.) I have eliminated all red meat from our diet. We eat fish , shellfish , ground turkey and chicken only. I have a glass of water or tea with me at all times. Water is very important to the diet process. I also eat 3 small meals with a small snack in between each. This keeps the body burning calories.
One thing I have had to learn is what it feels like to actually be full. Being full doesn't mean feeling stuffed to the gills. It is more of a feeling on contentment. I've also worked at eating slower. Enjoy the food and you'll also know when you are full sooner.
I've also eliminated all alcohol from my diet. Trust that this isn't an easy thing for me but it's absolutely necessary for weight loss. Cigarettes are still present but only 4-5 a day. For me this works for now. I hope to eliminate them as well soon but I'm not going to sabotage myself by biting off more than I can chew.
Exercise has been a difficult thing to get moving on , for me. I've been suffering some major back and neck pain for over a week. I have been doing yoga which feels wonderful and helps stretch the muscles and reduce tension. I've also thrown in a few workout tapes in the mix as I've felt able to. I LOVE Billy Blank's tae bo tapes and Richard Simmons video (yes , I'll admit it , but the music makes it fun). I've joined the YMCA and am going to start by walking the track and swimming a few laps. As my back problems get worked out I'll then add the weight lifting. After all , I don't want to be skinny with 3 yards of loose skin hanging off me!
As I find recipes that work for me I will add them on her. I am open to other people's recipe suggestions and will try them and give credit on here for them.