always a big girl, never a...little girl?

Hello, my name is Liz Schulzke and I am a food addict.

Addiction. What an interesting phenomenon. It is, in a nutshell, the supplement of tangible items for a deficient intangible quality to the point that it no longer suits its original purpose. At least that's my experience (I'm not a psychologist, I just live with one). And, trust me, when it comes to addiction, I have seen my fair share. The twelve steps might as well be the family creed for the Schulzke/Fuchs/Gerkers. And the first step? Admit you're powerless. Done. I am powerless over food. I have no willpower. Somewhere along the way I got it twisted that cake and chips and ice cream supplement love and comfort. And they don't. They just add to your waist line and make you unhappier-- a seemingly endless cycle.

Well no more. 2010, the year my life turns around. I will not longer make excuses, whine, and continue in my lazy procrastination. The things we put off just come back to us, bigger than ever. Boy have I learned that. So no more.

Acceptance is excellent, but I think a plan of action is even greater. I am powerless over my addiction to food...so what can I control? I can control what I keep in my house, how often I go to the gym, and my attitude. And my commitment to Weight Watchers. I have been a member on and off since I was...15? I truly believe in it; its like AA, a support system. I think a commitment like this can NEVER work without community and support. Check. So this is my pledge: I will count my points (honestly, even when I go 20 points over, I will still record it), I will eat my 5 fruits/vegetables, I will work out at least every other day. I will stumble. I will struggle. But I will succeed.

And I have never felt the way I feel right now--equivalent to how the majority of America felt right after Obama was elected: full of hope (ha, had to get that little liberal jab in there somehow). Its more than a good mood- its a shift in how I'm looking at my life. This is not a temporary fix, a diet, a quick solution. This will be a lifetime struggle--my weight already has been, so I know losing it won't be a walk in the park. But the thing is, I know, know, KNOW I am capable of battling it.

And the thing is...you are too. Join me in my quest for a healthier lifestyle. Let's change our worlds together.