100 Days

Today would have been day 100 of abstinence if I hadn't put my hand out to receive an ice cream cone on day 77. Because of that, I set my counter back to zero. On my second try, I'm at day 23, making a total of 100 days of following my food plan and staying abstinent from my binge foods.

To celebrate a total of 100 days on the job (77+23), I'm going to write one of my 10-things lists...

Ten Things About 100 Days of Abstinence

1. It's been much easier than I thought it would be.
2. I rarely obsess or even think about what I'm going or not going to eat.
3. I feel more calm than I have for a long time.
4. I seem to get more done and have a tad more energy.
5. I'm starting to be more aware of my feelings and to be able to name them.
6. I look forward to the weekly OA meetings.
7. I think I can continue doing this for another 100 days.
8. However, I will still try to take it just one day at a time.
9. It feels as though a more honest me is emerging.
10. I started at size 18 jeans and now my 14s are starting to feel a bit baggy.

Ten MORE Things About 100 Days of Abstinence

1. Dropping sizes is good, but the real reward is the return to a foundation of sanity.
2. I've only felt a strong urge to have binge foods one or two times.
3. I cheat a little with my food plan by having a taste or nibble now and then while preparing meals.
4. I have to keep a wary eye on nibbling and tasting. Right now I'm being lenient about it, but that may need to change.
5. I've started taking better care of myself in other ways, such as doing arm exercises.
6. I believe the 12-step program is an important part of making this a life change. I am working on step 4 using an event writing method suggested by a member of my OA group. It takes a lot of time.
7. I haven't weighed myself at all, not even on day one. My "no scale" policy is working very well for me.
8. Writing this blog is very helpful in understanding and placing value on my food addiction recovery process.
9. Reading other recovery blogs and exchanging comments is inspirational, instructive and motivating for me.
10. I got tears in my eyes at Saturday's OA meeting. I rarely cry (once or twice a year?) and never in public.

Re-reading my two lists, I'd have to give this period of time at least 5 bright, optimistic stars!