I started calorie counting Jan. 4th 2011 and mid February 2011 I began an exercise program. The first few weeks of exercise I was doing high intensity cardio training and began having difficulty keeping up on certain days. I decided to change things up a bit and I recenlty started alternating Intense cardio with Light or Moderate cardio. It all depends on how I'm feeling that day. Ever since I started doing that I have not had one day where I didn't feel like working out. I know now that it's because I don't feel obligated to go full throttle all the time and have the ability to guiltlessly change my routines intensity based on my mood. In addition to my newly improved cardio routine I added in stretching, warm ups and cool downs. I also accompany my 5 day a week routines with some strength training 2-3 days out of the week to improve muscle strength.
When I originally began calorie counting I would eat 1200 calories a day and exercise as well. I recently learned that this would impeed my weight loss because I would not be eating sufficient calories, nutrients and my body would "take" nutritents from other sources in my body and not just from my fat cells. This prompted another change in my course and now eat 1200+ depending on how many approximate calories I burn during my workout / strength routine.
I have come to find that I am really loving this whole "wellness" thing. I feel great when I and my family eat healthy, nutritious food and I feel even better after a workout. My kids even join in when they see me and my hubby exercising and that makes me feel great too. It's amazing how wonderful this lifestyle change can be, even though this is just the beginnig for me and I still have lots to learn. I know this is a change that is going to stick and not just another attempt at a diet because I am empowered by it.

FitnessLovingMom

Sounds like you are really motivate. I hear you about the kids my kids have been doing the same thing. They imitate me its too funny.

I think you're doing awesome. I definitely agree on your strategy. I once read in a crime novel that the character talked herself in to getting out of bed to do her jog by telling herself she'd just do it 1/2 speed. This got her up and out. Once she'd got "up and out" she'd end up usually going at her usual pace once started but she'd given herself permission to do what she could. I did that and it really helped me to get "up and out". Your plan sounds super sustainable through weight loss in to healthy maintenance. Yeah!

Yeah, I think thats great too. The kids get inspired to be active. My kids are pretty active on their own but it's nice to see them taking that extra step because they see you do it!

Thanks, it's really nice to hear from somebody who's already so close to their goal. I was already confident with the plan I have going right now, but it's nice to hear that someone else thinks it's a good idea too!