I can't begin to express how much ALL of your responses have helped me!
I have come to a realization that I think puts it into perspective for me. As much as I want to be able to eat intuitively, as much as I see this as an ideal, I have to look at my history with a realistic eye.
I have struggled with obesity most of my adult life. Not a couple of years, not over a couple of pounds, but with massive weight gains and losses because I have a disconnect with eating. I abused food because I did not learn good coping skills. I am looking at my problem as though it is part of me that just does not function as well as it does in others. Calorie counting or portion control is like taking a medication, it is a way to improve my life. Sometimes "medication" has to be taken for life. If I look at this as my prescription for a better quality of life, it doesn't seem like such a chore.
I am glad to see that many of you see calorie counting as a lifetime habit, a part of what needs to be done to stay healthy long term. I feel much better about where I am at with it all!
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