Avoiding the scale and reading the label

The urge I have to find a scale and try to chart my progress thus far is almost overpowering. I don't really feel like I'm losing weight, but on the other hand, considering the dramatic change in my diet, I don't know how I couldn't be.

The group's first weigh-in is Tuesday night. I'd be happy with four or five pounds, but I get the feeling my coach is thinking I might lose double that -- which I'd also be happy with, obviously. If it averages out to three to four pounds a week for the 12 weeks, I'll be thrilled.

I'm also learning to read the damned labels on what I'm buying at the grocery store. I just bought a carton of chocolate flavoured soy milk. The vanilla soy milk is just one gram of fat per serving. The chocolate? Four and a half grams. Damn it.

I also have been snacking on these terrific honey mustard multigrain pretzels from Zehr's -- President's Choice, I think. Just one gram of fat for 17 pretzel braids and absolutely delicious. Of course, I didn't bother to look at the 42 grams of carbs for the same amount.

Those two experiences have opened my eyes, though. From now on, everything I pick up at the store gets a thorough once-over before it goes in the cart.

My wife has been terrific. Last night she made cajun catfish with baked seafood and steamed broccoli. My friends will think I'm lying, but I finished the vegetables first.

She's also stocked the fridge with fruits and other stuff that won't get me into trouble. Even my daughter is benefitting. She'd never eaten grapes or cherries before this week, and now she loves both.

Tonight is salad with chicken breasts and more protein-based whatever I can jam in my mouth. Nearly 200 grams of protein a day seems like a lot -- and it is.

I'll check in tomorrow on my day off after my chiropractor visit. All of this change is being complicated by what I think is a pinched nerve in my back. I can barely walk, and sitting for more than 15 minutes is pretty tough also.

I know -- wah wah wah. We'll see if I feel better after I get adjusted.