Welcome to my new blog, Michaelann's weight loss journey

I have been  struggling to lose weight for nearly 8 years now, with very mixed  results.
I recently read on one of the many online health/weight loss sites that I use, that blogging can be a useful tool for achieving success with our weight loss goals. I didn't really care for the design of their blog, plus I don't go there all that often. So I decided to start a new blog.

I will share useful online tools & tips that I have found helpful. 

One thing that I have learned is, that studies have shown that keeping a food diary is a very useful tool for losing weight. You could just use notepad on your computer, if you prefer.
There's an online one on MyFitnessPal, here: https://www.myfitnesspal.com/
And there is also one available here:  http://www.sparkpeople.com/index2-3.asp

Or, if you're old school like me &  prefer to print them out, there is a great one available here: 
http://www.webmd.com/diet/printable/food-fitness-journal

Most packaged foods have extensive nutritional information on their labels. But for other foods, finding out the information we need can be difficult. There are a lot of websites & programs available online, I focus on those that are free. This one is my favorite:  http://download.cnet.com/Food-File/3000-2129_4-10414847.html

I have an exercise bike, that I try & use to stay somewhat in shape in the winter. It is also a nice way of sneaking in a little workout while I am watching TV. 

One thing I would really love to do, is dance walking. You've never heard of dance walking? check it out here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ib3Duz_6a9M

If you are in the Abbotsford BC area & would like to start a group, message me @ michaelanndahlman@gmail.com