Step It Up (Lb 4 Lb)

  So here I am, over a week into my weight loss journey- usually about the time I give in and give up, due to fatigue, hunger & cravings. I am incredibly happy to report that if anything, I have even more motivation now than I did on day 1. That's because I'm doing it right this time, not starving myself and counting calories while I long for my favourite fatty & sugary foods. In fact, my boyfriend sat right next to me on the couch eating a delicious smelling fried empanadilla and I felt no twang of jealousy. I am now viewing food and health itself quite differently than I ever have before. I want to do away with the things that my body has no use for- excess sugar, processed grains & empty calories. I aim to eat a variety of fruits, veggies, lean proteins & whole grains throughout the day. I usually start off with a fair amount of fiber and protein, try to keep starchier foods to lunchtime & have a predominantly veggie dinner with a protein - although veggies end up in most if not all meals in multiple varieties. I also try to have something to eat every 3 hours or so, and do not eat after dinner (usually 6-6:30). As far as exercise, I usually take at least one long walk a day (my favourite time is after dinner) and most days incorporate cardio & some strength training / calisthetics. Today I got my heart rate up nicely & burned 400 calories in about 45 minutes playing a dance video game, and it was super fun!
  Already into my second week, I am experimenting more with ingredients & flavor combinations, keeping an eye on portion size & emphasizing physical activity. I look forward to trying new & exotic foods that this planet has to offer, and I feel a sense of accomplishment when I fit a myriad of vitamins, minerals & antioxidants on my plate, with little fat. I plan to post some of my favourite meals on this page in the future.
  I used to think of losing weight as being strictly a long term goal that you simply had to suffer to achieve. That, I think, is the definition of a diet. But I am finding that if the focus is on being healthy, you reap a plethora of benefits starting on day 1, and the weight loss comes in time. I am happier & less stressed, more content with my meals, never feel overly stuffed, bloated, lazy or guilty, I have more energy and less aches & pains. In fact I find it exciting to learn about different foods, prepare meals & research the best nutrients. I never thought being healthy would bring such joy! Now I am proud to know that my daughter will have a good example of healthy choices as she grows, because I am not going back!
  Lastly, I must comment on a crucial factor in my determination- my incredible boyfriend, who has been more supportive than I could have ever asked for. He has given me so much to fight for, not to mention tools to fight with, as he is very knowledgable in the field of health & fitness (as is my beautiful, perfectly fit sister- she constantly gives me great tips!). We are nothing in life without the people that surround & nurture us, & I happen to be lucky enough to be surrounded by love & greatness beyond measure.

Question 3: would anyone like to share a gealthy recipe or product of note found in the market?