My First Weight Watchers Meeting

When I told my family and friends I was joining WW, they asked why. And for a minute, I didn't have an answer. I know what to do plus I workout and run 4+ times a week. But, when I finished my very first meeting, I had my answer.

When I arrived at the meeting, I weighed in at 156.2 lbs. I knew I had gained the weight back due to my September injury, but it still hurt. The leader went around the room and congratulated members for meeting or exceeding their goals. The encouragement was genuine and it made you feel like anyone can do it.

The topic for the week was eating at restaurants. And I was so glad! I really needed to get some tips regarding this. The leader as well as a few lifers gave some obvious and not so obvious tips regarding dining out. I'm going to incorporate them all:

1. Do your research beforehand and look up their menu on their website. Most restaurant sites also have nutrition information so they're making it easier for those with dietary restrictions.
2. If you are doing Weight Watchers, pick your meal and calculate the points before you arrive. This should hopefully prevent you from changing your mind to a less healthier option.
3. Do not read the menu when you arrive. This also keeps you from changing your mind.
4. You can save your Weight Watchers points for your restaurant meal. This is easy since most fruits and vegetables are zero points. You can also drink your 64 oz of water which will help you feel full throughout the day.
5. I know some people bring Crystal Light for their water, but have you considered bringing your own salad dressing? One lady suggested it and said she never met a waiter who was bothered by it. I really liked this tip.

So, the meeting was not just motivating, it was also encouraging. As I mentioned before, I work out alone and Weight Watchers allows me to meet other women with the same goals and challenges as me. And I already learned a lot about myself in just one week.

When I'm home, I barely eat. The first day, I had only eaten 5 points by 6pm. I'm supposed to eat 26 points a day! However, as the week progressed, I got really busy and spent most of my time out of the house and at restaurants. I quickly lost my points. I was so frustrated I was ready to give up. But, I hung there. Today, on my way to Virginia Beach, I ate at McDonald's and Chik-fil-A and had only used 17 points. I made healthier choices such as oatmeal, yogurt parfait and a side salad with no dressing. And believe it or not, I was full!

I think I'm getting the hang of this thing. But, this is only week one. And I haven't had a long run yet. I'm curious to see how my eating will be after running 13.1 miles. Wish me luck!