Counting Calories

A week or so ago, I told a friend I was 100% with her on giving up sweets until Thanksgiving.  That little dream was a reality for all of maybe 18 hours.

I'm not one to deprive myself! 

A few days ago, I decided instead to count my calories every day until Thanksgiving.  I'd aim to lose a pound a week, but made a deal with myself not to get too bent out of shape (hehe, get it!) if I didn't lose anything.
I have to say - I like counting calories!!

• I feel full more often. I think that being conscience of how many calories are going into my body is making me feel full faster.
• This is a realistic way to lose weight.  Just like with keeping a budget: if you spend more than you make, you're gonna be in a heap of debt.  If you eat more than you burn, you're just going to be a heap (like me!)
• It is motivating me to exercise!  I've been on my dusty old treadmill twice in the lasts week. And I'm still suffering symptoms of bronchitis! The itch to get/keep moving is stronger than it ever has before. Tonight, I ran 2 miles just to burn 300 calories.  mmmm calories
• It's making me a smarter eater.  Obviously, my options are carefully weighed. Instead of gorging on breakfast, I'm being more conservative earlier in the day so I can enjoy a "normal" dinner with my family in the evenings.  I'm making smarter choices! This can't be a bad thing...
• I don't have deprive myself of anything.  I had 1/2 a serving of my Ben & Jerry's ice cream tonight. Yum. I would have eaten more than that, but HONESTLY I was just full.  (thatsneverhappenedbefore)
• It feels like there are more options in the pantry and in the fridge.  Before calorie counting, I would open my fridge and stare blankly inside wishing something yummy would pop out of it.  Now, I am finding all kinds of options!  I can't wait to have that yogurt in the morning... I decided against it this morning so that I could have my ice cream tonight. Fair trade if I may say so myself. 
• I'm convinced that the actual act of counting calories is actually burning more calories. The effort involved is insane. Good thing I only committed myself to doing this for two weeks... if I had to do this everyday for the rest of my life, I'd probably give up kinda quick... especially when it comes to restaurants and eating out!
• I'm aware of portions.  This one is a "gimme" for any self-conscious eater... but it's worth mentioning that portions are important. 2 tablespoons of hummus? You mean I'm not supposed to eat the whole thing in one sitting?

I'm looking forward to seeing progress over the next week.  Today is day 4, and thanksgiving is just over a week away.  Hopefully the counting will continue to be "fun" and eye opening for me; hopefully I'll feel like doing it after Thanksgiving day as well.