February Progress/Gift-giving...to yourself?

So we're just over half-way through February and this nutritional challenge has been TOUGH! Who knew there were so many delicious things that I wouldn't be able to eat once I designed this thing...sheesh! Even though it's been difficult, I've been able to stay very close to the entire challenge. The best part about it has been the increase in energy levels. Because I've had to change up some of my normal food choices, I've had to be more creative with my options and my body is LOVING IT! How much does it love it? So much that I've lost...

MORE THAN 5LBS THIS MONTH!! 

Now, I'm not falling in love with the scale number because I know my goal is more about feel and fit than anything but when I see my number drop that drastically, it makes me anxious to see what my body fat % and inches look like next Monday. As a reward, for myself, I got these shoes made (Yes, they say "BUILD ROME") and let them sit in my closet until I hit my weight loss goal. Don't get me wrong, I believe that everything is better in moderation but a cheat meal isn't the only form of rewarding yourself. 

These shoes were kind of pricey (or should I say, much more than I'd normally pay for sneakers) but it can be anything you want. A friend of mine set her goal and as a reward for hitting it, got a new iPod shuffle to use just for running because her iPhone would sometimes be dead by the time she got to the gym in the evening. Whatever it is, make sure you reward yourself! And if that reward inspires/motivates you to stay on track for your fitness goal(s), EVEN BETTER!

Anyways, I just waned to check in and let you all know that I'm still here and sticking with it. Thank you to everyone who posts #BuildingRome on random fitness pics. I search that hashtag all the time so keep it up! How have your personal challenges been? Anyone else notice how thin the crowd at the gym has gotten lately? No worries, more weights for us! :-)