In the spirit of our b-buff b-beautiful project here at b, I recently lost about 35 pounds and everyone keeps asking me how I did it, so I thought I would share with you my secret.

Are you ready?

Counting calories and exercise.

It’s that simple.

Since I’m a girl, I have been on a diet most of my life. Because of this, I pretty much know the calories in everything I eat.

Apples: 80 calories.

English muffin (light): 100 calories.

Bud Light: 110 calories.

So on and so forth.

And if I don’t know the calorie count, I keep a list of nutrition Web sites bookmarked on my computer. That way, when I decide to have a taco salad from Wendy’s, I can quickly look up its “value.”

Every time I put something in my mouth, I keep a running tally of what my caloric intake is for that day.

Granted it can be kind of obsessive, and my husband HATES it when I list everything I ate that day, but it is the only way for me to lose weight and to keep it off.

But it’s not just keeping an eye on my calories. I also try to eat healthy, low-fat foods, and I will splurge every now and again so I don’t feel cheated.

I must say that trail mix is an awesome splurge. The protein in the nuts, mixed with the chocolate of the M&Ms is a nice combination. I do need to be careful with how much I eat, so I keep a 2-tablespoon measuring spoon in the bag. That equals about one handful and 75 calories. Plus it will keep me satisfied all day long!

Added to watching my calories, I started going back to the gym again.

At first it was 90 minutes three to five times a week. I’ve found that lately I can’t keep up that pace because my life is hectic, so I aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity three to five times a week.

Losing weight is not easy, but once it comes off not only do you have more energy, but you feel better about your self.

Good luck!