Time For A Change!

I'm a small woman - only 5'4".  And I'm small boned.  I like this about myself actually - I don't mind being 'tiny'.  Even my feet are tiny, which usually means my size is available when it comes to shoes  :)

My problem right now is that I've let myself gain weight over the past year.  So much weight that I'm muffin topping over my jeans big time.  I had to buy 2 new pairs in a bigger size to get me thru.  I don't like this - at all!  

Here is a recent family pic.  (I'm the short one on the right ;)) I know, I know - I'm not huge or anything, but I'm certainly not happy with so much extra flab!  Looking a little pear shaped for sure, and I need to lose about 20-25 lbs.

(We just got our family photos done for the first time in years - I absolutely love this one, so casual and modern!)

I have a friend who did the 17 Day Diet, by Dr. Mike Mereno, with some great results in the first cycle.  I thought I'd check it out so I looked it up.  Then I thought about if for a couple of weeks.  Finally, I just ordered it, and the accompanying cookbook.

Over the past couple of nights I've read thru them and I'm pretty excited.  I think this is going to be doable.  After major cutbacks in the first 'cleansing' cycle, items are added back in during the next cycles to get you to a diet that's healthy and satisfying.  This one doesn't feel overwhelming right at the start.  And it's really about change in eating habits, not food deprivation, and I know that's what this body of mine needs!

Let's see how the first 17 days go!  I'll be reporting back for sure...

How about you, any changes going on, diet or otherwise?  Fill me in!

(Links are below for both books, on Amazon, as well as a freezer meal cookbook that I will take advantage of for feeding the rest of the family during my 17 day cycles (although I do plan on having the family follow the 17 day plan at least 3 dinners a week).  LOTS of great recipes are in the Fix, Freeze, Feast book!)