I want to tell you a story. It's my story of how I've embarked on a weight loss journey. One that is very personal.

At my heaviest, I weighed 208 pounds. That's a lot when I'm only 5' 5" tall. And that's something I vary rarely admit. I have always struggled with my weight and have tried various diets and exercise routines over the year, but nothing seemed to work. When I made the decision to become a chef, a friend asked if that was wise. At first I was insulted by her question, but now I realize she cared about me and my health. If I was going to pursue a career in food, could I balance that with my weight?

I clearly remember the first time I learned I was obese. I was sitting in the back of a cab in New York City (long before I became a chef), listening to the radio. The host was talking about obesity and how to calculate your BMI. I was absolutely horrified to learn my BMI was 33 - well into the obese category. How was that even possible, I thought to myself. I mean, I know I have a few extra pounds to lose, but obese? No way! For the next 8 years, I refused to consider myself as obese. I refused to acknowledge that I was putting my health - my most precious possession - at risk.

It wasn't until a doctor's visit that I got a wake up call. On the cusp of getting high blood pressure, having high cholesterol and at risk for Type II diabetes, my doctor told me I needed to lose weight. At 40 years old, I realized for the first time that if I didn't do anything about my health, my body would pay the price. I happen to like my life, and I'd like to be healthy enough to enjoy it.

Right then and there, I started making changes. Three years later, I'm thrilled to report that I've lost 50 pounds, even after having a baby in June. For the first time in my life, I'm out of the obese category and in the overweight category. I still have another 15 pounds to lose. And I'll get there. 

So I'd like to share my personal story with you - how I did it. My job as a chef is to educate and inspire you to cook healthy. Perhaps my story will help you too if you struggle with weight or are trying to lose a few pounds. I'll try to post every week what I've learned along the way. And I'd like this to be interactive. If you have ideas, suggestions, have struggled with your weight or just want share your story, please do. Making a change is so much easier when you have support!

Please join me on the journey. More to come...

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