Last week while visiting my sister, I found something rather disturbing on her refrigerator door. It was a picture of she and I from like ten years ago with a post-it note stuck to it that read, "this is what we're supposed to look like." Well I realize they say if you place an old photo of yourself on your frig you will refrain from eating too much. A motivational note if you will. A reminder of what your body can and has looked like in past years.  Well that's all fine and dandy…but why was I included???

I haven't gained as much as she had over the years. Why did she include me? I felt fat and kind of sick. I guess it did its job that fateful day cause I certainly didn't eat. And better yet it changed my poor eating habits once and for all.

Once I stopped feeling sorry for myself; I realized I had indeed gained over those years and I could use a little tough love. So I searched for the easiest ways to lose. I know, I know, we're not supposed to think instant gratification when we're dieting. I know that fad diets usually come right back at ya tenfold. But truly, just by simply changing a few habits regarding food and my eating habits, I did indeed lose about 7lbs.

This is how I did it:

I posted that same photo on my refrigerator.

I stopped snacking late.  My body couldn't digest food easily while I was at rest. I eat more small meals as opposed to two or three big ones.

I started eating breakfast. It kept me from mowing down the kitchen for sugary foods by mid-morning. My favorite is Special K cereal, some yummy fruit and a cup of coffee.

When I'm craving sweets I allow myself a piece of licorice.

I've been drinking plenty of water. I add lemons and ice. The lemon makes the water taste better and the ice revs up the metabolism.

Allow yourself a piece of protein when you're craving something. It will help keep blood sugar balanced so you don't feel that low blood sugar crash.

My friend owns a spa for women only and on the reception desk sits a replica of what 5lbs. of fat looks like. You can do the same with a pound or two of shortening in a plastic bag. Place it in your refrigerator so you have to look at it each time you open the door.

Watch how many calories you're getting in your daily drinking habits. I like diet coke so I was good to go on this one. Also as I said I love drinking water and lemon. Without the lemon I never used to drink enough water.

Lastly I always have on hand a bunch of fresh veggies cooked ahead of time. Then I just place them on top of a bed of rice and flavor with a little bit of butter, Spike (a great seasoning spice you can find at most grocery stores), shredded parmesan cheese, and some soy sauce and warm it up. Delicious!

I can't wait till my sister sees me!!!