While away, relaxing and unplugged on vacation, I gave a lot of thought to this blog. Next month will be my one year anniversary. What an amazing year it has been. The first half of the blog year was filled with my daily struggles with my compulsive overeating.
The second half of the blog year, through therapy, some great books and the blog world, in mid March the stars aligned for me. I found the faith and trust in myself and my body to feel confident enough to let go of my white-knuckle control/obsession with food. I resolved in my head the reasons I became a binger/compulsive overeater when I was a child. I took the leap from calorie counting, eating at certain times because of what the clock said, weighing/measuring food portions and getting on the scale at least once a day to just releasing all of those behaviors. I was ready to be freed from the chains that I let hold me all those years. I am now free and empowered.
Food no longer controls me or runs my life. It has no power over me. I will not let food have the control. I no longer eat because of the things that happened decades ago in my childhood. I no longer eat for emotional reasons. I enjoy the foods I want, when I want them, in moderation. I am not doing perfect Intuitive Eating, but I am intuitively eating in a way that is right for me.
When I find a passion in my life, I throw myself into it completely. This blog started off that way. I desperately needed an outlet to write about my issues with food. It was so easy to write every day, I had so much to work through, say and share. It was amazing therapy. You all were instrumental in that.
But as you know, I have been blogging less and the content has been less about my issues with food. I love the blog world, the community, and all it has given to me. I feel like I have taken so much from all of you – your kindness, support and inspiration. I can only hope that I somehow gave a fraction of that back to you.
By cutting back like I did a few months ago, I was trying to blog “half way” and that just doesn’t fit with my personality of going all out. I wanted to be part of the community, yet still have time to pursue other passions in my life. I have confirmed over these few months that there is no half way for me when it comes to blogging. I hated missing out on what everyone was saying, yet I was stressing myself out trying to find the time to write/read/comment. I just couldn’t find the balance that you all have seemed to have found.
I completely admire those of you who have came through the trenches with your eating disorders and still have fresh, creative ideas to keep on blogging. I truly marvel at how you do that. I am simply not that clever.
With that being said, I’m going to take a true break from this blog and the blog world.
With school starting up this week, I need to devote more time to my kids. I need to try to remain less stressed. I need to continue with my new found passion of triathlons, as well as having time to give myself an opportunity to write a book of my memoirs, my journey through this eating disorder. I want to somehow pay forward the things I have learned throughout these past few years about overcoming this sickness I’ve had for over 30 years called compulsive overeating. I feel good recognizing that these are my needs and that I’m trying to take care of them and myself.
I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your unending support and constant inspiration. I don’t think I’d be recovered today without all of you.
So with that, I bid you a very fond farewell. Or perhaps I should say – until another time…
PLEASE do not hesitate to contact me if you want to ‘chat’ or if for some reason you want me to guest post. I definitely want to stay in touch, as I have become ‘close’ to many of you and truly consider you my friends. If any newcomers read this, please feel free to contact me as well, I’m happy to help if I can.
I’m sure I will still lurk around here and there as I slowly pull away from this amazing blog world.
One Day at a Time... Nurture myself... Awareness... Letting Go... Listen to my Body
![[del.icio.us]](http://images.del.icio.us/static/img/delicious.small.gif){kind=small}
09 September 2010, 8:36 pm
I really admire you for taking this step FOR YOU! That is what it is all about. Doing what is right for you & you have goals that you want to accomplish & you need your time & full attention to those goals. I wish I had it in me to take the break from the blog world but not there yet.
We all have to do what is right for us in health & life & I think you going after these other goals is FANTASTIC!! I support you all the way even though I will miss your posts!
You mat not get rid of me that easily though!
Jody – Fit at 52´s last [type] ..It Is All About the View – Weight Loss & Life Help
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 9th, 2010 at 8:55 pm
thank you, jody. as i’m sure you can imagine, it was not an easy decision. i will truly miss your educational and motivational posts as well.
[Reply]
09 September 2010, 9:33 pm
I’ll miss your posts but I completely understand the need to prioritize. I’m also trying to write on the side, and it’s tough being pulled in two directions.
Best wishes in your unplugged adventures! Please keep in touch!
Cammy@TippyToeDiet´s last [type] ..7 Quick and Easy Ways to Shed Weight–Instantly
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 9th, 2010 at 9:36 pm
it is tough, isn’t it? thanks for your support.
i will miss your posts as well. i will stay in touch, you too, ok?
[Reply]
09 September 2010, 10:13 pm
I admire you for so many reasons – knowing what is right for you at this point in your life is only one more reason:) And I very much appreciate you saying goodbye and not just vanishing from the face of the blog planet. Best of everything to you. Hugs.
Karen´s last [type] ..With Apologies to Oprah
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 8:57 am
thank you so much, karen. best of everything to you as well! hugs right back!
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 5:59 am
I think the blog world, including myself, will be sad to see you go. I really would love to stay in touch with you because you have helped me so much in my journy on being binge free someday. I know that it is hard to update everyday, not sure how some bloggers are able to do this!! Anyway, will miss your postings!
amanda´s last [type] ..Peanut Butter Cup Coffee
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 8:59 am
aw, thanks, amanda. i honestly don’t know how bloggers do all this, as well as doing twitter and facebook! do you all stay up until 3 am every day and never sleep? lol!!!
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 7:33 am
You will be missed….A LOT. I’m sure I will drop you an email from time to time. You are proof that’s it’s possible to overcome binge eating without being on a horrible diet. You know that is what I apsire to do. It’s only day 4 for me…..I’ve got a long way to go. Thank you for sharing your struggle and triumph with us!
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 9:00 am
thanks, lisa. i would love to hear from you. congrats on day 4! one day at a time!
i’m glad i had this wonderful platform to share, in such a great community.
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 8:58 am
I have such incredible respect and admiration for you. As difficult as I’m sure it was to make this decision, it really sounds like you are doing what is best for you. We all talk a lot about taking care of ourselves and aligning our priorities to live our best lives; it’s wonderful to see you living that out so fully. Best of luck!
Katie @ Health for the Whole Self´s last [type] ..Challenging My Fear of Hunger
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 10:15 am
wow, thanks, katie! i really am trying to do what i think is best for me. we’ll see how it pans out. =)
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 9:40 am
I know this is really a tough decision, but I admire you for analyzing what you need to do and just doing it. You have done an amazing thing – worked through issues related to food that some people can never conquer.
Diane Fit to the Finish´s last [type] ..Time to Pick on Dentists Now
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 10:11 am
thanks, diane. it was a tough decision, but as of now, i feel good about it.
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 9:43 am
I am so lucky to have found this blog and you in this world. I completely understand your decision and admit that I will miss seeing you in my Google Reader. I am glad to know that I have found a great friend that has inspired me SO MUCH to see a healthier life and spirit overall. You are such a class act, so thank you for that.
Alicia´s last [type] ..A Very Blogger Boston Vacation
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 10:12 am
aw, alicia, you are so sweet! i appreciate your support. thanks for saying that i’ve (somehow!) inspired you.
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 10:43 am
Sorry we’ll miss you posts, but more importantly, congratulations on overcoming a life-long eating problem. That is the true victory. And though I’m sure the blog helped, you should pat yourself on the back for what you have accomplished! Keep up with the triathlons and enjoy those kids. If you have time to focus energy and effort on them, while at the same time taking care of yourself, I can’t think of a better way to spend your time!
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 12:27 pm
thanks so much, melinda! i really appreciate your kind and supportive words.
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 10:59 am
You are an amazing person and watching your journey over the past year has been so inspiring for me. Thank you for not only blogging and being who you are..BUT being an amazing friend and sounding board. you have pulled me up more times then you know!
Michelle@Eatingjourney´s last [type] ..Sunrise Run
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 12:30 pm
i’m so glad i somehow helped you, michelle. you are one of the most insightful and in-tune-with-yourself people i have ever had the pleasure of ‘meeting’.
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 2:14 pm
Couldn’t you blog half-way wholeheartedly?
Just kidding. Congrats on the decision and good wishes for everything that comes your way.
Janell´s last [type] ..On the Road Again
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 2:42 pm
lol!!! i will miss your wit and humor! thanks so much for your good wishes.
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 3:51 pm
You will be missed!! But I admire you for choosing what is best for you
Good job! I gather you will be leaving this blog up so we can keep reading your past posts? THANK-YOU! It’s been so helpful to find someone who really understands (and can put it into words) and who also has overcome. Such a wonderful inspiration! Even though I’ve only commented a few times, it meant a lot that you responded to each one. Cheers to you as you focus on other things!
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 5:26 pm
thanks, gillian. yup, i’ll definitely leave the blog up and am still willing to help out any way i can. i’m so glad that i’ve helped you in some way by sharing my struggles and successes.
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 4:09 pm
I’m sad for me but very happy that you’re doing what is right for you. I will miss your posts and hope you come back once in a while and let us know how the triathalons are going and how life is treating you.
Wishing all the best in whatever you do outside of this little blog world. Take care.
I’m going to go shed a tear now *sniff, sniff*
MB´s last [type] ..101 Days of Summer Challenge Finale
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 5:31 pm
aw, thanks, mb! i may just pop up once in a while to say hi and to see how you are all doing. thanks for wanting me to =), you are going to make me shed a tear.
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 7:20 pm
You will be truly missed but I definitely understand! I wish you all the best and hope we can keep in touch every once in a while through email or the blogs
Lara (Thinspired)´s last [type] ..Who’s Says a Salad…
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 10th, 2010 at 7:45 pm
thanks, lara. i will miss you too and would like to keep in touch as well!
[Reply]
10 September 2010, 10:57 pm
(I don’t know how some bloggers do it, either!) I am going to miss you. I don’t always comment (I’m not one of those supper bloggers), but I like reading and learning from you.
You have wonderful adventures ahead of you. Blogging was a tool to help you get there. I’m happy for you.
Will you keep the blog “up” — meaning, can we come back and read previous entries?
I think you are great and I hope to accomplish a portion of what you have done.
Gina Fit by 41 Maybe 42´s last [type] ..Award II – The Lie About Me Revealed
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 5:44 am
hi gina, i’m sure a part of me will miss blogging (and all that goes with it too). and you are right, blogging was a great tool and served a great purpose. i will always be grateful to the blogging community and i know that it is there for me if i ever need to come back.
yup, i will absolutely keep the blog “up.”
the things i have accomplished… if i can do it, anyone can!!!
[Reply]
11 September 2010, 4:42 pm
Congratulations on reaching this point in your life! I wish you all the best of luck in the future. If you ever find yourself struggling again…you know where to find all of us. In the meantime, I hope you embark on a new and exciting journey!! Much love to you!
Christine
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 6:50 pm
thank you, christine! believe me, i know where to turn if i start struggling again. the blogosphere is phenomenal.
[Reply]
11 September 2010, 6:11 pm
finally at computer today.
you will be missed and yet Im really really happy for you as well.
I also know many of us would happily take guest posts when
you get the urge…
Miz´s last [type] ..Are you my guru
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 6:54 pm
thanks, mizfit. i would be honored to guest post on your blog or any of the other fabulous bloggers who i have had the pleasure to read.
[Reply]
11 September 2010, 8:14 pm
you are free from the bonds of your past. It’s time to spread those wing and fly. Love you lots.
Yum Yucky´s last [type] ..Crumb Snatcher Report- episode 5
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 8:18 pm
love that, thank you!!
love you lots right back!
[Reply]
12 September 2010, 12:33 pm
I will miss your posts more than you know. You have been a shining star in my Google Reader for many months and helped me tremendously.
I can completely relate to your decision. I know you made the right choice, and blogging has served it’s purpose in your life. Look how far you’ve come and how many you have touched.
AFG´s last [type] ..Blogging for the right reasons & more before and during fat pictures
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 12th, 2010 at 7:48 pm
i’m touched by your words, bobbie, thank you very much.
[Reply]
12 September 2010, 9:00 pm
I’m so sorry to see you go, but I couldn’t be happier for you that you are in such a great place in your life. I hope that information inspires those who read your blog and are struggling with similar issues. It’s always a comfort to hear that it can be done when you are willing to take the necessary steps to confront what held you back.
Enjoy this new found free time. Maybe once in a while you can write us an update? I know I’d love to hear what is going on in your life.
All the best.
Karen
karen@fitnessjourney´s last [type] ..Just Call MeLittle Miss Sunshine
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 12th, 2010 at 9:29 pm
thank you so much, karen. i hope you are right and that my ‘retirement’ inspires people that overcoming an eating disorder can be done. perhaps i will pop in with an update, we’ll see… =)
[Reply]
13 September 2010, 9:33 am
Though I’m sad to see your posts come to an end, I am GLAD you made this decision for yourself and very, VERY thankful I was able to “meet” you! You are at such a great place, and I think we can all learn something from being more present in our everyday lives. Not that blogging is a bad thing and the time spent is a waste, but I know I, for one, am really trying to focus more on being with my loved ones rather than chained to my PC at night.
I will be first in line to buy that book of yours – no doubt! I wish you all the best!
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 13th, 2010 at 6:27 pm
thanks for all your kind words and support, holly! i’m so glad i ‘met’ you too!
[Reply]
16 September 2010, 1:36 pm
We love you!
You shall be missed. I’m keeping your blog bookmarked so that I can go back and re-read old posts when I feel overeating urges coming on.
The real world beckons!
Sagan´s last [type] ..Tracking food and exercise online with Aspire Fitness
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 17th, 2010 at 9:21 am
aw, thanks, sagan! love you all you bloggies too!
[Reply]
02 November 2010, 9:22 am
Just found your blog, and while I’m sad you will no longer be writing, I very much respect your decision. Go and LIVE IT UP!
Beth @ To the Fullest´s last [type] ..Links for 2010-11-01 delicious
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
November 16th, 2010 at 7:47 am
thanks so much, beth! sorry for the bad timing.
[Reply]
15 December 2010, 9:11 am
man i wish I had found this site earlier. I’m in the beggining steps of my recovery. I’m not doing well at recovery yet, but I’m on the right track. Progress, not perfection right?
cody´s last [type] ..Addictions are progressive by nature
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
December 15th, 2010 at 9:25 am
just admitting you have a problem and taking steps to help recover is so huge. and yes, progress, not perfection. the road to recovery is not a straight line. there are bumps, curves and detours along the way. just keep the end goal in sight. you can do this!!!
[Reply]
26 December 2010, 10:07 pm
Hey! I just wanted to wish you a great season, Happy Holidays, Happy New Year and guilt-free intuitive eating. Thanks for your blog and comments. Hope things are going well for you.
Gina Fit by 41 Maybe 42´s last [type] ..Eating for Your Soul – Step One
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
December 27th, 2010 at 4:43 pm
hey gina, great to hear from you! thanks for all the holiday wishes, i send them right back at ya!
[Reply]
26 March 2011, 7:31 am
Just wanted to tell you that you are an inspiration! I am looking forward to continue reading your blog. I have some history to catch up on though! I have my own blog, as I am currently battling my ove-eating.
fluffyglutton´s last [type] ..Lady Gaga — Love Her or Hate Her
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
March 26th, 2011 at 10:22 am
aw, thank you so much!
good luck w/your battle. you can beat it. food does not have to rule your life.
[Reply]
27 March 2011, 4:01 pm
I think you have a wonderful way of helping others through what you have experienced…
this is another blog that i have found to be helpful to others…as you aren’t writting anymore..
hope you don’t mind..know we all like to help others:)
have you read the blog”can you stay for dinner” …she lost 135lbs and has kept it off…here is her link on emotional eating
http://canyoustayfordinner.com/2011/03/22/emotional-hunger/
she also tells of the book ..woman food and god..by Geneen Roth
all very informative!
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
March 27th, 2011 at 5:17 pm
thanks for your kind words, and thanks for the link and book title. yes, help is always appreciated.
no worries about the three times, i deleted them.
[Reply]
27 March 2011, 4:02 pm
i’m sorry I don’t know how it ended up 3 times..sorry!
[Reply]
30 August 2011, 2:42 pm
I just found your blog today…what a great uplifting read! Thanks for your contribution to binge eaters!
I look forward to reading your past post.
Sandra
[Reply]
love2eatinpa Reply:
September 4th, 2011 at 9:22 pm
thanks for stopping by and for your kind words, sandra.
[Reply]