Wasting Away on the Blackstone Bike Way

I began my weight loss program 10 days ago, on September 4, 2012.  My expanding middle was getting uncomfortable and prompted me into action.  My bike was retrieved from the bowels of the basement, a bike rack was mounted on my car and I embarked on my biggest challenge, to lose 20 pounds.  (And collect $200 from a bet with my doubting husband).  Next thing was to find a suitable spot to bike without killing myself or others as I have not been on a bike in at least 18-20 years.

Rhode Island is home to several bike paths.  I tried the Cranston Bike Path on September 4 and did somewhere between 16 - 18 miles.   Most of the path was quite secluded and I felt very uncomfortable traveling alone during the day.  Years ago there had been women attacked on parts of the East Bay Bike Path, so I decided not to go there.  While mentioning this to a friend, she asked if I had been to the Blackstone Bike Way which is a 17 mile bike path running along the Blackstone River in Cumberland, Lincoln and Woonsocket, RI.

The Blackstone Bike Way is now my place to go.  I've taken some photos with my iPhone camera and just ordered a backpack camera case so I can bring my Nikon along.  I'm sure when the leaves start to change, there will be dozens of beautiful photos to capture.  The bikeway is home to blue herons, turtles, ducks, swans and deer,  and also features a couple of small waterfalls, old mills, railroad tracks and bridges.

The end of the path, mile 17 in Woonsocket

I've been trying to bike at least three times a week, covering 15-20 miles each trip.  In addition, I have dramatically cut the amount of junk food out of my diet and have limited portion sizes.  But even with all these miles, and overall better eating habits, I am a little disappointed that there has been minimal progress so far.

Starting weight - 166 pounds
Hip Measurement 42 inches
Waist Measurement 39 inches

After 10 days my weight is down to 161 pounds
Hip Measurement 40 inches
Waist Measurement 37 inches

I was hoping to see more drastic results.  Admittedly, I am not the most patient person and I am resigned to the fact that as I age, it is not as easy as it used to be to lose weight.  I will just have to keep pedaling away!