Hello there!  I created this blog to document my journey to lose weight and keep it off!  I love talking about dietary and fitness health!  The challenges, different approaches, concerns, and of course the success stories all fascinate me!  I invite you to be a part this process and all it entails as I focus on obtaining a “normal” BMI status.

I know, I know…so many people argue against the BMI chart standards.  I agree there are people who do not fit in the category of a healthy weight per height, but appear to be in great shape.  However, I do not believe I am one of those people.  The upper range of my thirty-two pound window of recommended weight is lenient enough and with my genetics and age, I figure it is time to get on board. 

From here on out I will share all kinds of details including my weight, foods I eat, exercise routine and (hopefully) progress.  Please do not assume while reading that it has always been easy for me to share these kinds of details.  I have spent too many years stressed, disappointed, and even ashamed of my diet and BMI.  At this point however, I am so over it.  I don’t care if everyone knows my weight, what I had for lunch, or that I am indeed the real-life cookie monster. 

People should also know that I love to run!  I do not run to lose weight!  I began running for my health and I continue to run because I love the way it makes me feel.  Last September I completed my first half-marathon.  Good stuff!  Currently, I am taking a running break for the winter but as soon as the sidewalks are clear, I will be back out there.  Can’t wait!   

Here is my first step: finding out my personal (62 inches in height) BMI table recommendations.  Here they are:

BMI Status	BMI Score	Weight
Underweight	18.5 &lower	104&lower
Normal	18.5-24.9	104-136
Overweight	25-29.9	137-163
Obesity	30.0 & up	164 & up

 http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm

Here is why most people dislike this chart…I am obese!  Not for long though!  As of today I weigh 165 pounds and I am 5’2. That makes my BMI 30.2.  As noted on the chart any BMI at or above 30 is categorically obese. 

Additionally, the national heart, lung, and blood institutes website provides a guideline for waist circumference.  Apparently, if your waist is more than 35 inches in circumference for women or 40 for men, you are at a greater risk of type two diabetes and heart disease (the number one killer in America).  This information about waist circumference intrigued me.  So, I measured my waist.  Bad news…just bad!  I was beyond shocked to learn that my waist is 40 inches!  I thought it would be about 35.

In sum, I am in my thirties, 5’2 tall, categorically obese, and carry too much weight in my waist.  The good news is, I am resilient, strong, beautiful, and prepared to give my body the respect it deserves.