You look down and there it is- those undeniably full hips, a belly bulge and thighs that are rubbing together.

You look at yourself, as though your body has been taken over by someone else. This definitely is not the glamorous you that you once were.

You heart begins to sink to your stomach, as you want to cry. You feel as though you:

- are at a lost as to where to begin.
- have gained so many pounds they will never come off.
- cannot imagine getting your large body on the treadmill and going through all the agonizing pain of exercise to even begin to bring your body back.
- are set in your ways and that it is impossible to change at this point in your life.

These are the standard complaints of most people that have gained an excessive amount of weight. And, unfortunately, for the majority of these people, their "good intentions" in losing that excess weight goes a stray and they never shed a pound. If you happen to be one of the majority, and give up before you even begin, then it is time to change your mindset.

While you may think to yourself, "this is an uphill battle in which I will never accomplish" it is time to begin to rely on the endorphins in your mind, which will definitely begin to show within the first few weeks of exercise. This is the time where "reconditioning" is a must. Instead of seeing the huge battle ahead of you, focus on the present day, and what each day- when you fight the urge for that Pepsi and opt for water and make it to the gym will mean for your overall wellness.

While it is true, when you have 20, 60 or even a 100 pounds to lose it is discouraging. However, it is not impossible and you must take it one day at a time. At the end of each of these days, you will have a new attitude and the strength to continue to go forward. Take your time; begin with conquering losing one or two pounds each week.

Now, consider this. What is one to two pounds a week? is simply a few adjustments to your diet and a bit of exercising. Nothing much. And, you will reach that goal without becoming defeated. And, in the course of a year, your would lose 50 to 100 pounds. Incredible!

This only takes 3500 extra calories burned each week. This is simply done by decreasing your calorie consumption and by increasing your physical activity.

To help you on your quest, keep a journal that you can refer back to. This will be a saving grace when you become discouraged and are able to thumb through it and see all your successes.

With just a 500 calorie loss a day, you can lose a pound a week.

Here are a few suggestions to help you lose those calories:

Reconditioning is a must. Think of it this way. If you normally do this....then do this instead....

Drink an 8 oz. soda....drink ice tea or water instead (calorie loss 92)
Eat a package of potato chips....eat an apple instead (calorie loss 180)
Drink a mocha.....drink coffee or tea instead (calorie loss 250)
Miss your workout.....jog for 30 minutes (calorie loss 150)

Weight loss does not need to be an unforeseeable goal. Each day is a quest in which you are striving to change your life into a healthier, fitter you.

Simple steps over the course of time make a dramatic difference.

I am here to be your backbone- I am available any time. Simply call or reply to this email to set up a consultation absolutely free.

Always encourage yourself. When you are having periods that are presenting obstacles- whether a discouragement, lack of motivation or just plain giving up, do this:

- Pull out your old photo albums and find a picture of yourself that you felt your best.
- Now, find a picture of yourself that you absolutely despise! One at your very worst possible weight. - Now, look at the two pictures. Put them next to one another. Remember the difference in the happiness of your life. How good you felt.
How much confidence you had and consider whether you really want to continue to be overweight?

I am here to tell you I would love to help. Share your two photos with me. Together we will get that body back!

Lemon- and Parmesan-Crusted Salmon

With summer here, there isn't a better time to enjoy a salmon! Packed full of Omega 3's and vitamin B the added health benefits are tremendous! Not to mention the taste is spectacular!

1 1 1/4 pound salmon fillet
2 tablespoons butter melted
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (1 slice) fresh white bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Using a shallow baking pan, spray the pan with cooking spray. Using a paper pat the salmon dry. Place the salmon, skin side down in the pan and brush with one tablespoon of butter. Sprinkle the salmon,

In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs, cheese, onions, lemon peel and thyme. Stir in the remaining one tablespoon of butter. Press the bread crumb mixture evenly on the salmon.

Bake uncovered for 15 to 25 minutes or until the salmon flakes with a fork. Serve the salmon immediately.

This is great served with asparagus!