Tahira Nyabinghi writes: I feel like I am wasting time and not following through with my commitment to this project. Encouragement from any source would be welcomed right about now.

Alan Foster writes: The bad news – I’ve still only lost 3 or 4 pounds. The good news – I haven’t found them. I am finding that losing weight isn’t as easy as it use to be for me. I must admit I’m getting a little frustrated with the lack of results. I’m eating much better and exercising, but we’re 6 weeks into this and I’m still not seeing the results I anticipated. I said going into this I wasn’t going to count calories or measure my food portions. One thing I’m going to start this week is watching when I have my evening meal. Lately, it’s been anywhere from 7 to 9 PM. Putting some more time between dinner and bed ought to yield some results. I’ll let you know what I find or hopefully, lose.

Tahira Nyabinghi writes: Misery thy name is flu and you have stolen my soul this week!  One minute I am basking in the rich flavors of a warm, raw taco and the next, I am rushing towards the garbage can like it is my best friend!  Because my food is authentic and ripe with antioxidants, nutrients and vitamins, it looks the same either way.  It just hurts a little more because none of that processed product has broken it down internally yet.  My temp is about 100 percent steady and I cannot decide if I want to live under the rushing onslaught of the fan or cuddle beneath the fireplace to ward off the coldness.
Fortunately, none of my other family members have touched the golden flu goose; it has just visited my doorstep and has decided to make a nest for the time being.  Such is my daily struggle these days.  It is a good thing however, that the flu came to see me as I was getting a bit despondent in my raw foods walk.  I have yet to receive any encouragement from others, the meals can be challenging to pull together and it is hard to even consider going out to eat anywhere with friends! 

Alan Foster writes: Now that the Super Bowl is over and all our party guests have left, my guilt for overeating has returned.  I did get in an hour of exercise before the big game but I think those last few chicken wings negated that.  Oh well – today’s a new day.  Hope there’s no chicken wings left in the fridge when I get home from work.

Alan Foster writes: Tuesday’s Life, etc. article http://www.newsobserver.com/2011/02/01/959267/just-keep-going.html about new fitness routines taking time was right on time.  The article says don’t be discouraged if you’re a month into your new fitness routine and still seeing too much of the old you.  I’ve only lost 3 pounds despite my efforts.  The article nicely explains why.  I just have to spend less time looking at the scales, keep making time for the gym, and accept that in time I’ll reach my goals. 

Tahira Nyabinghi writes: I have been consumed with so many things this week that I have neglected my focus!  I am seeking assistance and encouragement from the community to get back on track.  I am not sure where I fell off the wagon, but I fell quick and fast.  I do not think I gained all of the weight back but I know I did not lose anymore so far.

Muriel Watson writes: I am working really hard to continue back on my track.  I have started back on the Jorge Cruise Belly Fat Diet.  This was how I managed to lose the 108 pounds last year, so I figured if it worked the first time, it will work now. 

Tahira Nyabinghi writes: Some have wondered if losing 30 lbs. in approximately 30 days is not healthy.

I did not intend to lose so much, it just began to come off as I altered my dietary intake.  Actually tasting the freshness of fruits and vegetables has been a reward in itself.  I can only go by the taste from the ones I purchase at the store since I have yet to go to the farmer’s market, but it is a process. 

With my weight loss goal of 110 lbs,. I can recover from my minor setback this past week and keep focusing forward.  I did go and sign up and the gym near my house and will begin working out tonight after work.

Tahira Nyabinghi writes: What a weird and stressful week!  I am worried about so many things that I have not had any hunger cravings, though I have forced myself to eat.  I have fallen off my wagon this week.  I have eaten a lot of salads but have also consumed a fair amount of French fries!  How terrible!  I was so proud that I dropped 30 lbs., I let my guard down!  Two steps forward, one step back!

Alan Foster writes: One of the challenges of the President’s State of the Union address last night was working together to achieve goals. This Dieting Dispatch blog was established not only to share with the N&O readers the year-long dieting journey of three people, but to provide a forum for readers to interact with the blog writers.

 I’m sure I can speak for Tahira and Muriel and say we welcome and want your feedback, questions, advice, etc.  I’ve learned that staying committed to losing weight and making lifestyle changes is best accomplished when folks work together, hold each other accountable, and provide support and encouragement. 

The state of the union of the three of us is we want and need some more interaction.  Is anybody out there?