I don’t really know how it happened, but when I moved to my new apartment, I had less storage space than I did living in shoe-box sized studios. Until just recently, every little “extra” thing hung out in the dining room… that is until I got creative or cut it loose. Here’s a picture of my pantry, hosting all my healthy options… and all of my photo albums and books (please ignore “Choosing a Good Husband,” a gift from my mom…).
This mission of mine to lose weight has a new revelation almost daily. Recently, my brain has been picking over this idea of space. I currently eat 1,360 calories per day, but I would like to be at 1,200 or 1,250. Not only will it take discipline to stay UNDER the calorie goal, but there is not space for one mistake, ever. Every decision of what I put in my mouth has to be the right and good decision. There is no room for a 55-calorie Twix mini (which my office so kindly offers in the candy bowl).
It’s incredibly difficult to work out a low calorie meal plan and make sure I get enough protein, fiber, vitamins, etc. I definitely don’t have it down. At the good advice of Tracy, I’ve really just concentrated on staying under my calorie goal, which I’ve only recently got the hang of.
I eat five small meals a day – right now, they are 261 calories a piece, give or take. Added to that are 55 calories of vitamins and supplements. Each time I plan a 261 calorie meal, I contemplate how I will cut it down even more (you know, when I cut my daily calories again), but without stripping the protein and fiber (which I’m already lacking on).
Just like my apartment, I’m learning to get creative or cut it out. A sandwich is becoming an “open face” sandwich, or a salad. To incorporate more veggies, I have to eliminate some of the cheeses, while upping protein with something leaner, like Greek yogurt. It’s a delicate balancing act, but I’m confident that I’m creative enough to find a place for everything.
