My appetite has been ridiculous lately! Too many nights I’ve found myself around 500 calories over. Nothing is happening on the scales, but I really need to rein this in a bit. I think I may have brought this on by attempting to cut calories too much and upping my exercise at the same time. I need to figure out what the magic range is and stick with it. I am even considering visiting a nutritionist.

The food that I am eating is actually really good, and that is part of the problem. When I find myself craving a heaping spoon full of almond butter and a glass of skim milk or a big bowl of watermelon, it is difficult for me to say “no!” I want to respect my body, but I also want to avoid giving in to cravings that are not good for me. It is a difficult dance sometimes.

Besides my monster appetite, I feel great about my body. During my runs I really notice just how awesome I feel. I feel strong. Last night I even earned a compliment on my guns while running in a sleeveless shirt. Awesome! When I feel so good the loose skin around my thighs doesn’t bother me, nor does the dab of marshmallow I am still carrying in my lower stomach area. Some of these problem areas will tighten up with time, but even if they don’t I am prepared to live with it. I just want to be healthy.

I made this for dinner one lazy night not long ago...

Raw Brownie Dough

2 T Almond Butter
2 T Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
1/2 t salt
1 T Stevia or another no-calorie sweetener
1 t vanilla extract

Mix and eat. Makes 1 serving at about 300 calories.