I’ve been down this road before. After having Baby Number One I watched what I ate and I was able to get back into those pre-preggers clothes in no time. After giving birth to Baby Number Two, the Earth shifted – and so did my waistline. My daughter is now three years old so the “baby weight” excuse has certainly expired.

I’m sick of not being able to wear my gorgeous wedding rings.

I’m tired of wearing “comfortable” clothing every day of my life.

I’m also out of excuses. I just want to feel better about myself and 2012 is the year I am dedicated to getting my body back!

I started the points program on Weight Watchers at the start of the New Year because it’s the only program that has EVER worked for me in the past. I just can’t give up white rice, chocolate or that glass of wine and as long as I count it in, I can have still those things. It’s more than a “diet” it’s a lifestyle change – it teaches me to make healthier choices, portion control and eating in moderation. I know it’s only been a couple of weeks but I’m doing amazingly well on it.

I’m sharing five secrets (in addition to following the WW plan) that are working for me – so even if you don’t have a ton of weight to lose or if you aren’t ready to commit to any kind of plan just yet, making these small five changes may make a noticeable difference in how you live and feel.

Keep in mind, I am certainly NOT a doctor and these are just some tips that this REAL Theta Mom finds helpful:

1. Drink tons of water, like at least half a gallon a day. Seriously, I’m not kidding. On the days I drink tons of water, the scale is always gentler to me the next morning. Yes, I am going to the bathroom often so if you are in a work situation where this may be a challenge, you might not be able to commit to this right away. Drinking oodles of water helps to curb my appetite (my stomach is “full” by consistently drinking water) and drinking water in between meals helps curb my desire to snack.

2. Limit your alcohol consumption {this includes the amount of wine you drink ladies}! This is probably the secret that is the toughest for me because I love my wine, especially at night when the kids are finally in bed. I was drinking an average of 1-2 glasses of red wine per night. However, I am now “treating” myself to ONLY a glass or two during the work week and 1-2 on the weekend). The calories and sugar alone that I am saving my body from are pretty astounding…but you also have to be sure to measure those glasses, too! I was drinking 1-2 LARGE wine glasses and now I am drinking what an actual bartender would serve you, roughly 8 oz per glass.

3. Cut out the whole milk or crème and sugar in your coffee.  This was also another biggie for me, I WILL NOT give up my coffee but I can certainly moderate how I am drinking my coffee. It’s amazing the amount of calories I am saving per week just by changing what I put into my coffee every morning. I am now drinking it with 1% milk instead of whole milk and I am not adding any sugar. I have to be honest and say the first week of this was tough, I really missed the sugar. But now, I am getting used to it and I feel as though I can still have what I love, I’m just making better choices and cutting out the stuff that I really don’t need!

4. Don’t eat anything after 8 pm. This is another tough one especially when my husband whips out the chips and ice-cream at night, but by sticking to my “no eating after 8 pm rule,” I’ve noticed a difference. I chew some five calorie sugarless gum in between meals (and even on the couch at night) so that it still gives me that sweet flavor but without all of the guilt! But if you are someone who just has to have a snack at night, grab some carrots or a piece of fruit instead of the junk and try not to eat anything two hours before bedtime.

5. Work-out that body a minimum of 3 times per week. I happen to be re-committed to the treadmill. I do not run, though. I walk on an incline at a decent pace to work up a sweat. If you are a runner, lace up those jogging shoes. If you have a gym membership, reacquaint yourself with all they have to offer and take a spin class or Zumba.  No gym membership or treadmill? Try to remain active and get your body moving again by walking the dog or walking with a friend when you can. If nothing else, follow the above four secrets and you’ll be amazed at what those little changes can do!

Making these small (but in the end remarkable changes) can actually make a difference in your waistline and if nothing else, you’ll feel healthier and better about yourself. I’m determined to get back into the clothes in my closet and wear my wedding rings again. 2012 is definitely the year of ME.

*P.S. Be sure to visit one of my bloggy friends Maria at BORED Mommy because she is having an awesome linkup during the month of March to inspire you to shed a few pounds. Her meme is entitled “March to BlogHer” so if you are attending the BlogHer conference in August (I’ll be there, too) it’s even more reason to get started!!

*P.S.S.  I was not compensated for this post but I do personally endorse Weight Watchers (although the content of this post is not affiliated with the WW program). In addition, I am not a doctor and this post contains advice based on my own personal opinion and experience, so be sure to consult with your own physician before you try any diet or exercise program.