Counting... And Debating...

As I'm diving into the mound of laundry to get done today I'm pondering my 'numbers' from yesterday and I realize how much counting is involved in daily life when you are trying to lose weight. Add on to that the fact that it is tax season and you have an equation for insanity. Tack on top of that debating about joining a half marathon training group and my day 'off' isn't so relaxing!
First rant... I despise waiting for W-2 forms to arrive. This year I'm waiting for them from not one, two or even three employers, but FIVE employers. Add to that doing expense reporting and inventory counting for my Mary Kay business... In the end it is all worth it - all the jobs pay for all my fun!
Yesterday I did well. Bryan and I went to the Y and put in pool time (about 1/3 mile before I called it in, which is great for me) AND track time (I did manage a FULL mile non-stop for the first time in a long time).  All in all, it was a great success and I look forward to many days like it.
Alright, the counting thing... I count my calories in and calories out. Which is stated everywhere, doesn't always equate to weight loss. However, I am able to figure out where my downfall is and attack... Silly and empty extras... Over-doing the croutons is my biggest problem. I like the crunch but I've noticed that as I've been adding other things to my salads (more cucumbers, peppers ect) that the extra crunch really isn't necessary! THAT'S a step forward for me! I've also been able to cut back on a lot of extra calories by choosing different dressings... My current favorite is a sundried tomato vinagarette.
What I have a hard time giving up is sweets... Especially chocolate. I can do without ice cream or cookies and bars... But chocolate, that is a problem. If it is paired with mint or peanut butter then I simply can't walk by it! I've found some creative alternatives that may help quiet the temptation without totally giving it up. At work they sell peanut butter crispy bars with chocolate frosting... They're HUGE, so I cut them up into 6 or 8 pieces and have almost an entire weeks worth of dessert at lunch for $1.25! It amounts to about one bite, or two if I'm feeling like I need to draw it out a bit.
Slowly, but surely, I'm learning more and more about portion control and am able to make better decisions which all leads to better health, increased workout capacity and eventually better endurance and finally a healthier me!
Speaking of increased workout capacity and endurance... There is a half marathon training program being run by one of the running stores that I frequent. It includes group runs on Saturdays, personalized training plans and a coaching staff to work with. There is a small fee, but worth it for all that you get in return. The drawback, it's in Appleton and I live near Sturgeon Bay - thats nearly 90 minutes one way to get there... I'm considering it, but am thinking that I am totally crazy for doing so? Any feedback?