Downsizing
I’ve tried losing weight off and on since graduation. Some efforts have succeeded, others have failed, several were unserious. There is, however, a sure test of both success and seriousness: the pants. I have in my closet a pair of flannel dress pants from high school. My growth spurt had about ended by the time I bought these, so inseam is not an issue. Waist is a different matter. Most trousers I own are size 36. Because my weight fluctuates, sometimes these are loose, very occasionally they’re tight (that’s when dieting must begin), but most of the time they’re just about right. The high-school flannels in question are size 32.
This morning I needed gray pants for church, and as my regular pants have been feeling sufficiently loose of late, I decided it was an appropriate time for the test. Drumroll please … OK, I passed. They slipped on surprisingly easily and fastened without strain, unsightly tightness, or discomfort. The size 36 black belt did look a little silly, even at its tightest setting, but I can live with that.
I’m not ready to bet my wardrobe on size 32, but this is a major milestone.
Matthew, you’re in a size 32 already? Congratulations! I haven’t worn one of those in years. Heck, my size 38 pants aren’t exactly roomy right now. Of course, I’m struggling to move down from 188, now at 180, hopefully going downward again tomorrow. But I have such a long way to go!
Comment on October 3, 2004 @ 9:13 pm
Yes, but there are still more tests to come. Such as buttoning the size 41 blazer, which didn’t quite happen yesterday.
Your road may seem long, but with patience and discipline, you’ll reach the end. Dieting really is a marathon not a sprint.
Comment on October 4, 2004 @ 2:26 pm
There’s something about Size 32. I held on to the illusion of 32 for a bit longer than I should have, only giving up and retreating to 34 a few years ago. The 34s are now, actually, feeling a little too loose, and it’s just possible… But I’m not willing to try yet.
Although I’m surprised Matt’s having trouble with Size 41 blazer; even a 40 Regular tends to be a little on the large side for me (and I’m still up a few pounds).
Comment on October 7, 2004 @ 4:18 pm
Hmmm…do I need to start worrying? I bought a few pairs of 34 pants at the end of August, and have found these to fit better than the 32s to which I have been accustomed for many years. I’ve also increased to a 40 long jacket (thankfully, as it can be difficult to find anything in 39 long).
Comment on October 7, 2004 @ 5:19 pm