HLSG: Introduce yourself!

[lindrusso]

Okay, my tight shorts say it is time to get this thing rolling. Maybe we can start wtih introductions and then start the weekly threads on Monday?? I will start off with mostly background stuff and then talk more about specific goals next week. My intro was getting WAY too long! Don't want to put anyone to sleep!

As we introduce ourselves, do NOT feel that you have to discuss everything that I, or anyone else, chooses to share. Only do what is comfortable for you and don't feel bad about holding back if you are uncomfortable sharing details (such as how much you weigh, etc.). Again, I don't want this to turn into a critique of anyone's methods, just a sharing of ideas and goals. Please be tolerant and polite and respect everyone's right to make their own decisions about "living healthy".

I am a 34 year old stay-at-home mom of 2 boys, 6 and 3. I'd like to blame my weight troubles on pregnancy, but I realize now, from photos that don't lie, that my weight problems started as much as a year before I got pregnant with my first son. I think my metabolism simply shut down. I have slight hypothyroidism and take Synthroid to balance that out. Up until about 7 years ago, I was a size 3/4 or 5/6, now I'm about a 10. I've been in such denial that I only got rid of my size 2 suits just last year! I kept them in the closet because they were really nice - it just didn't dawn on me that I'd NEVER fit into them again!!

My main problem is getting over the "it's not fair" attitude. I have friends who have had kids, don't do a speck of exercise, don't watch what they eat, aren't particularly active and they are in their pre-baby clothes within weeks!!!! Ack!!! So I'm in self-pity mode - why can't I eat whatever I want like my friends????? While I never intend to completely deprive myself - I can't, I like food too much and I'd get too grumpy - I do try to cut back on things like sweets, fatty foods and alcohol. I guess it's all a matter of balance.

There's so much more to share, but this is a start. I can't wait to hear from all of you. Good luck to everyone!!!!!!

[JJeannette]

Hi All! I'm in my early 50's, and have been heavy forever(well, since puberty). Have always said I went from a girl's size 14 to a woman's size 14 overnight. Anyway, I started going to Weight Watchers last spring and have lost 27 lbs so far. I'm close to my "declared" goal, but the mirror says I really could keep going a bit further.

Winter has always been a hard time for me--I do walk the dogs in the summer, but it's more difficult when snow and ice cover the road. Plus, my family likes heavier food and more sweets during the holidays and cold, boring days of late winter, so that's where I will be needing all the help I can get!

And, lindrusso, don't be like me and wait 30 years to get rid of that "baby" weight! It comes off much more slowly when you don't have that baby to chase anymore!

[mightyh]

My story sounds kind of like lindrusso's... I'm a stay at home mom who just had my first baby six months ago and am struggling to get off some weight (though I don't think all of it is baby fat). I think I eat fairly healthily, but I love food and have a hard time cutting out anything. I try to exercise about four times a week (usually a combination of the elliptical machines, treadmill, and bike), but have seen no progress so far. Still can't fit into most of my old clothes. Need to get rid of about 15 pounds, I think, to do so. Also need some motivation and group support to keep me focused.

[BeckyM]

I'm 31, married, but no kids yet. I've always had to struggle to keep weight off. Right now I'm about 10 to 15 pounds over where I think my ideal weight is, but I can't seem to take the weight off and keep it off. I usually eat healthy meals, and I exercise pretty regularly, but I have problems staying away from the sweets. They start calling me every afternoon, and by the time I get home at night, I have difficulty resisting. I need support to help me focus on being HEALTHY and avoiding those empty calories! I also have some of the attitude lindrusso talked about -- the "it's not fair" syndrome, and I need to get over that!

[LauraEllen]

Hi - I'd like to jump in. I'm 47 and it seems since I was in my 20's that each decade my base weight went up another 10 lbs. At first I would be shocked, then I would get use to it and tell myself "this is as high as it's going". Then, voila, a few years later it starts creeping up again

I have never gone in for organized groups like Weight Watchers. What always works for me is to keep a food diary tracking calories. In the old days I use to have to do this by hand and look everythin up in a book, but with the computer databases available now it's much easier. The reason I have to do it this way is that I am very good at fooling (lying to) myself about what or how much I have eaten during the day. So I tell myself to be absolutely honest and record EVERYTHING. Even if it's just 2 M&M's.

At the beginning of the summer I started a diet and managed to loose 10 lbs by the end of July, and I want to loose 10 more. Then with end of summer parties, travels, events, etc. I just wanted to hang on to my earlier weight loss. Now it's time to resume the program.

I do manage to get to the gym three times a week. I work with a wonderful personal trainer one of those days, and continue on her program the other two. I try to do 20-30 minutes cardio (I love the Precor eliptical crosstrainer) and one hour of weight training. I'm still waiting to see my muscles pop out, but alas, that fat layer is diguising them.

I'm very happy to have some group encouragement. I read these boards as much as possible, but rarely have the time to post - which explains why I'm still a junior member.

[lindrusso]

LauraEllen - if either of my boys had been girls, they would have been named Laura Ellen. Love your name! I know what you mean about fooling yourself - I also find it's much easier to lose weight if I keep track of calories. However, I find that I often get bored with this and stop doing it. I think I will probably start keeping track again - mostly for a jumpstart - but I'd really LOVE to just be disciplined enought to know how much is "enough" - something that would be easier to do for long term. I too have computer software now to track calories and fat. What do you use?

JJeanette - Yes! I know it gets harder as time passes. They say that your metabolism slows even more with menopause! If my bodies slows down any more, I'll be in big trouble! My very long-term goal is to have all of this under control so that middle age does not add even more weight!!

Along with self-esteem problems connected with all the extra weight, there are of course health concerns. My family has a history of heart disease - yet another reason to get this under control.


[This message has been edited by lindrusso (edited 09-07-2000).]

[Kelly]

Good Morning Everyone!

I'm 30-something, married with 2 small kids. I also work full time. I have been overweight for as long as I can remember. I even remember my pediatrician telling my mother that I should loose weight - I was in 1st grade at the time. Talk about a label that sticks with you forever! Realistically, I need to lose about 20-25 pounds.

My biggest hurdle so far has been finding the time to exercise and committing to doing it. Now that the days are shorter, I can't walk outside before I leave for work (too dark). It's also getting too dark after dinner to walk. I'm signing up at my health club again this weekend so I can take aerobic classes.
I am really convinced that if I can just commit to kicking in more exercise that I can shed some weight. I really wish that I had someone to buddy up with for exercising; it’s so much easier for me to cuddle up with the kids and read them another book instead of exercising!

I’ve never really thought that food was a problem for me (the words “wake up” might apply here to me!). I read all the books, all the magazines – I know what I am not supposed to eat. I actually do eat pretty well. I do let myself indulge everyone in a while – anything chocolate based is my downfall. I also love to cook which means more food. If I can’t resist the urge to bake something, I try to bring most of it to work the next day so it’s not at home for me to eat. I have found that when I hit that panic point of what to make for dinner, I tend to snack (strange I know). I figure that I consume an extra 100 calories or so figuring out what to cook!! The nights that I already have meals planned, I just go ahead and cook and I’m fine.


My goals:
Loose 20 pounds by 12/1/00.
Aerobic exercise 4 days a week. Weight training 3 days a week.
Plan the weekday meals during the weekend – and stick to the plan.


Wow – just seeing that in writing scares me. Well, I guess that once I post this, I am committing to dropping 20 lbs by December.

[andi]

Lindrusso,
Thanks so much for starting this. I needed some motivation and reading everyone else's stories makes me feel like I'm not alone in this battle! I just turned 39 and had my third child 6 months ago. I also started a new job and am also constantly racing around in the car getting my older kids to their various after school "events" in addition to doing volunteer work. So, finding the time for exercise has been tough. I gained almost 60 lbs with this pregnancy (I've always gained alot) and really would like to loose these last 30 lbs which would get me back down to a respectable 120-125 lbs. (I'm 5'3). I too still have those size 3/4's in my closet but recognize it may be time to dump them!!!!
Anyway, I'm trying to make the committment to exercise at least three times/week and cut out my downfall-sweets/carbohydrates!
I think if we can support one another through these times it will be great!!!
Thanks!!!!!!!

[marys]

My story sounds like most of the others. I turned 30 a few months ago and my body is constantly reminding me. Like most of you, my closet is filled with these beautiful size 6 clothes that I can't wear anymore, but refuse to get rid of (I'm more often a 10 lately). I went for a physical about a month ago, and my 29 year old Dr. (that was the first time that 30 felt old for me! Up until that point, turning 30 wasn't a big deal for me) just kept reminding me that my body changes as I get older.

I joined our local Y a year ago and went to aerobics classes 3-4 times a week. After 7 months with no results (except for toned calves) I decided to switch to weight training and the elliptical machine or treadmill. After 4 months, I still feel like I am getting nowhere. Ugh!

The next step in my plan is to get in touch with a personal trainer (with eating healthy and this much exercising, I must be doing something wrong). And I also plan to get my thyroid checked. My Dr. mentioned that it might be a factor, and I've recently learned that my grandmother has had an underactive thyroid for years.

This support group is a great idea. I really need the motivation! Also, if any of you are in the Cincinnati area and are interested in working out together (tennis, walking, running, whatever) let me know!

[BevP]

Hi, I'd like to join in on this. I do my best to cook healthy and exercise regularly but, like BeckyM I love the sweets. I'm a 34 year old Domestic Management Specialist (housewife with no kids). I've been trying to make weight training a habit and keep to the goal of aerobic activity 5x/week. I need to lower my body fat a few percentage points and firm up.

No one else has mentioned it so I will. DRINK UP LOTS OF WATER!!!! Aim for at least 8 glasses a day of non caffine/ no sugar or low sugar liquids. That will help immensely and your bladder will adjust to a greater amount of liquid.

This was a great idea.

[Pat58]

Hi Friends,

I'm 42, work full-time as a paralegal, married, teenaged son (who supports my healthy cooking practices). I live in Connecticut but was born and raised in Queens, NY. In May, 1999 I joined Weight Watchers because "maintenance" is my primary goal. I'm so sick and tired of bouncing up and down and scale and owning three sizes of clothing. I always cooked and ate healthily, but had to learn portion control. I used to be a real gym buff (yes, you can be muscular and overweight at the same time) until I developed rheumatoid arthritis about 5 years ago. Weight Watchers guided me back into at least getting some walking in, and I started feeling better and better, so returned to the gym for "light" workouts and now am back to cardio, step aerobics, weight training that I can manage and my new-found love - Yoga. The whole package has caused me to lose over 25 lbs., become much fitter (and experience much less pain), and enjoy life much more! I achieved Goal two weeks ago and anticipate getting LifeTime membership very soon. The scale tells me a high weight but my clothes and mirror tell me - "Girl, you are at Goal." My whole Weight Watchers experience has been positive and I used it as an opportunity to develop new recipes and learn to enjoy new foods - my loss was slow but I NEVER deprived myself. And we all eat the same meals, with extra healthy snacks for the teen. Husband has lost 30 pounds by default and even joined the gym!

I typically do two to four aerobics classes per week, depending on how I feel. Alternatively I train with free weights and weight machines at the gym from one to three days per week. I go to a formal Yoga class once per week at least and incorporate a little Yoga here and there after workouts and sometimes just a little mental positive thinking at home or work. I'm eating more vegetarian meals, eat out MUCH less and try to incorporate more tofu products and varieties of fruits, veggies and grains. Fellow readers: these habits did not happen in one week! It took me over a year to make them "My Program." The key is trying, and experimenting, and putting YOU first. I look forward to our support group so much! Thank you all for sharing :-)

[This message has been edited by Pat58 (edited 09-08-2000).]

[cookgirl]

Hmmmmm. This is goin to be scatter-brained I'm the yungun' apparently.
I'm a 23 year old Newlywed (until Oct 2) to a musician. I've always been a very active person. I took up running at 13 and then swimming, then played varsity volleyball for my high school. My first jobs were fitness related: Lifeguard, swim instructor, asst dive team coach, and fitness instructor. I was also a nanny for 3 years (my biggest workout!)
As you can guess, I'm at a really good weight. I guess my problem is that my lifestyle has changed so much, as have my career interests, that I'm losing grasp of the healthy lifestyle I once had. I never had to watch what I ate because I was so very active,and I am naturally inclined to like healthier foods. But now my husband and I have NO time, so it's hard to develop and maintain a routine like I used to have. He's a musician, so if I watch him play, there is no way I'll be getting up for 5am jogs. Also I am in school and have a job, for the first time, where I sit down to work...hence the inevitable "spread." Yikes! I've also noticed that I eat worse food. I don't have the time to prepare healthy meals, and depend on vending machines and restaraunts a lot of the time.
I can slack and get away with it, because I don't look plump. But that's not a good plan, and I can't do it as much any more, because I have decreased my activity level so much.
There is p-l-e-n-t-y of room for improvement. Physical irritant:I have never known what it is to look at a defined derriere in the mirror!
Goals: Maintain weight, tone muscles, esp in the backside, montior eating habits, ditch the fast food
Oh my gosh, that does sound like a lot! See you Monday!


[This message has been edited by cookgirl (edited 09-08-2000).]

[bijoux22]

Hello, I am a 42 year old working married mom of a 2 year old. In my twenties (5'7")I used to feel very overweight at 140, then the years went by and the pounds went on and on. Well, I have lost 21 lbs since July 14th and am down to (yikes) 180 with a goal of 160. I may readjust it when I get there. Believe it or not I have been having a shake for breakfast and a shake for lunch followed by a sensible dinner - no meat, only fish. Yup the shakes are SlimFast. Seems to do the trick for me. I am on the run for work, going from client to client and would often eat while driving (McD's etc.)so this is easier to just grab my shake from the little cooler in the car. Everyone that has an exercise routine is my hero. This is a downpoint in my weightloss program, although I am beginning yoga class on monday. Other than than it is usually a quick walk with the dog.

[Shatz]

Hi everyone, what a great idea. Thanks, just what I need! I just turned 40, and vowed to get to my goal beforehand and yes, am almost there, but need more motivation. I have been a weight watcher and cook fairly healthy(most times). I do excersise at least 3 times a week. But I need support. This will help to hear others and to get the feeling that we are not alone. I too love the sweets, do great all day, put the kids in bed and then something turns on, I tend to binge on the lowfat cookies. I am truly a chocaholic. I am not ashamed of it, but need it in moderation. I would love to lose 10 pounds AGAIN, keep it off and live happy.
HELP!! I think this will be the ticket, along with my check-ins at weight watchers, reading Cooking Light, experimenting with the recipes, and having this thread. Thanks. Oh and by the way I am brand new to the group. Good-luck to all of us. Eat helathy--talk next week. My goal is to exercise, and try to knock off the nighttime snacks.

[jd]

Great to hear from everyone! We all have some challenges ahead, and this will be a good forum to motivate and see successes. Thanks, lindrusso, for starting it.

I'm 36, no kids and work full time. I was an inactive child with no weight concerns. About 12 years ago, I started aerobics, step, teaching fitness, etc. Then the yo-yo exercising began. I'm no expert, but I believe that my metabolism is as messed up as a yo-yo dieter. I am now 5'7" and 190 lbs.

I've decided on a lifestyle change involving better eating as I have no motivation to exercise. I joined WW two weeks ago. I have always wanted to cook, and have started cooking new things from CL, WW and other 'healthy' cookbooks. I find it frustrating that some people think I am on a diet, which I am not. So far, I have not missed anything and am feeling good, and am enjoying the cooking!

My long term goal is 150 lb. With the start at WW, my first goal is 10% reduction, or about 170. I haven't set any time limit - does anyone think this is a good idea?

Thanks to everyone for sharing. It's great to know that I'm not alone out here in the high fat world!

[Angelina]

This will be a great way to help each other!!...I will be 33 at the end of this month, and today was the last day I worked at an Italian bank. I was there for 13 years and somehow you get so comfortable in your work routine after all that time, that you start getting too comfortable in life overall. I have a gym membership that I will start putting to good use starting Monday and since I will also leave work earlier, I will be able to cook some decent dinners for once! - AND - this new job is just a couple of blocks away from NYC's largest farmers market!! I am in heaven. So..I need to loose about 60 pounds, being in the 190s range right now. Married, no kids. I know what I should be eating, I know that I have to exercise more. And now, I count on being able to, since I seem to have a lucky combination of opportunity and desire. No more excuses..now I have the time, and I will be coming here for some support and friendship! I look forward to this... http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Angela

[Holly S]

Lindrusso,
I said I would participant and I shall.

I was always a fairly thin child but I ran around like a nut, and grew up in a town where everything was in bike riding distance. My parents never drove us anywhere. All of this went downhill as soon as I got my drivers license, and it just keeps picking up speed. I am 31 and about 70 pounds above what I should be. My loving husband keeps telling me he doesn't care, but every time I look in that mirror, I get a little more discouraged. I was supposed to begin my new routine this week. Life has a way of stopping us sometimes, even when we have the best of intentions. I tried to blow myself up this weekend, and While I have mild 2nd degree burns, it is still enough that exercise is out of the question until this heals enough not to burn every time I sweat. Trust me, it isn't as bad as it could be, and I was very lucky, but now that it is healing, I want to get started making myself feel better. I think this thread is a good idea. I may start a little behind you all but I think this is a good motivator to help me along!

[This message has been edited by Holly S (edited 09-08-2000).]

[laden]

Hi everyone...I'm 41, no kids (unless you count my dog and step-dog) and engaged to a wonderful man. My job is very stressful (but who's isn't these days?)

My goal is to maintain my weight. I have been a lifetime member of WeightWatchers for many years and have had great success losing weight. I just have a hard time staying at the same weight. I fluctuate anywhere from 10 to 20 pounds from my goal weight and my wardrobe reflects that. Anywhere from size 4 to size 10. (Currently 6 but climbing quickly)

I thought I had it licked about 3 years ago. I was going to the Y and eating healthy and I felt great. My weight was constant for almost 2 years. Then I just couldn't do it anymore. So I got back on the yo-yo syndrome of losing-gaining-losing and I'd just like to stop.

I really watch my diet and nothing gets in my way for maybe 2-3 months and then I can just binge for 3 weeks straight.

It's nice to know I'm not alone!

[MrsReber]

Wow, I see myself in so many of these posts. I'm 30, married almost one year (Sept. 25th), no kids yet. I work full time and I just returned to college for my Bachelor's Degree in Business Admin (I got my Associate's Degree 10 years ago- Pat58, I am a fellow paralegal!)I was very thin child, underweight even- then I hit age 12 and was always overweight until about 2 years ago. My parents were always on me about being overweight, as if I knew what to do about it when I was 12! They made me feel really bad about myself and I still have self-image problems. I still see myself as being 170 pounds and feel that way in my head, like people are looking at me and thinking that I am fat. I am very paranoid about my weight and feel that people won't like me or will make fun of me (thanks to my step-mother and father telling me that everyone would treat me better if I were thin). I really want kids, but am scared to death of the weight gain that comes with pregnancy, though my husband says he'll still love me!

I joined a gym two years ago, worked with the people there and got down to 125 and decreased my body fat by 10%. It was great. I even wore a 2 peice bathing suit on my honeymoon! Then my job got crazy, asking me to work crazy hours and making me very depressed and stressed out. I couldn't make it to the gym at all since I left for work at 6:15 and got home after 8:00pm. I quit there and have a new reasonable job so I can fit the gym in again, but I tend to lose my motivation. I know that about 8-10 pounds have crept back up on me and that my body fat is increasing. I have a hard time cutting out any food. I LOVE to eat good food. Unfortunately, now that I have more time at home, I cook and bake more! My goal is to get back to where I was before, in terms of weight and muscle (decreasing body fat). If I let it go now, I will be back at 175 pounds like I was 9 years ago. I also want to take better notice of portions. I tend to think "well, it's healthy food, so I can have 10 servings!" I also snack when I am trying to figure out what to cook for dinner. I guess my main goal is to cut back on the calories! I, too, can easily fool myself into thinking I haven't consumed that many calories. But my brain knows and my body knows when I don't eat right. I really just need to get back on track. I drink plenty of water and try to get to the gym 3 times a week or at least do some exercise like a bike ride with my husband or a walk with the dogs or even a weekend full of yard work, which accomplishes 2 goals at once! But it's easy to lapse into old habits. Once I realized that I could eat a little more at a meal and not gain weight, I got too comfortable. Hence, the weight creeping back up on me. Until I need maternity clothes, I refuse to buy clothes in a bigger size! It's nice to see that other people have the same downfalls that I do and I'm sure I'll find plenty of support here with everyone else. I was going to just read the posts and hang out in the background, but after reading, I just had to join in!

[andreajackson]

Hi I am a 20 year old student in Indiana and I thought that this group would be fun and motivational! I don't like to workout but I love to eat and sweets are my weak spot. I don't need to lose any weight at this moment but I would love to workout more. I need to get into a habit of doing it everyday or at least 3-4 times per week. It is so inspiring to hear all of your stories and I can't wait to see our progress. Good Luck Everyone!!

[Missi]

Hi! I am 25 and single, but getting married in January. I slowly put on lots of weight after meeting my soon to be husband 4 and 1/2 years ago. We both love to cook, which makes it difficult, but we are learning to cook a lot healthier, and he is really supportive of me losing weight. I started a class at the local community college that gives me access to their cardio lab and access to an instructor that is studying to be a personal trainer. This has been a really inexpensive way to get the benefits of a gym and the accountability of having a personal trainer. I really think this support group will be great for all of us!

[JennyR]

Well, since I skipped this post-- going straight to the goals post-- I thought that I had better check it out. I am a 30 year old, single, no kiddos. I have always been of average weight until college and the discovery of beer. I look at my graduation pictures and say "Who is that?" After college, although it took over a year, I lost some of that weight. I never got back to the 134lb that was listed on the driver's license. The past 2 years I have been in denial. A slow progression of weight gain. I am sure it was an up and down thing because I never felt uncomfortable in my clothes. Now, however the size 12 isn't very comfy at the waist (and that was never a problem area for me)! I know that I have been to sedentary of late. My weight is now around 170. And like other posts, I remember when 140 felt big. I miss the days of size 10 and that is my goal. I too, have clothes in smaller sizes that I refuse to get rid of because I "just know" that I will get there again. My roommate owns the scale and I just hate the sight of it lately. I am a nurse and at work I get plenty of walking in. I shudder at the thought of what I would look like if I had a desk job. I binge exercise walking/jogging and Nordictrack-ing. I have free weights that I have recently dusted off to do some work on the arms and shoulders. I love sweets too, that is why I deliberately don't buy them. But I have been buying the baked Otis Splunkmeyer cookies at lunch pretty frequently at work. My problem is I eat way too much starch and not enough fruit and veggies. My cooking has decreased greatly over the past several years as cooking for one is very hard (my roommate never eats what I cook). I try inviting family & friends over more so that I prevent those solitary trips to McDonald's and Fazoli's.

[Kathy]

Hi! I am very glad you started this topic. I am a 36 yo stay at home mother of three. I was 137 at top form...many moons ago. I am now 210 and VERY unhappy about it. I am busy doing the typical Mom stuff in addition to coordinating services for my son with Special Needs. I only mention my son, because the stress of having a child that does not quite fit in is a serious contributor to my weight gain. HELLO double stuffed oreos! Enough about me..I am happy to meet all of you!

[Laura]

Hello

I am doing this backwards since I already posted my goals. I am a 38 year old single mom with 2 kids (8 and 11) although I am getting married at the end of the year to a great man with 3 kids (yikes!) I am one of those people who for the most part have always been thin. The thing is I have rarely been healthy. My fiance has really helped in that department.

I am a part-time college teacher, part-time attorney, full time mom, chauffeur, tutor and everything else that goes along with being a parent. I recently moved from Jackson Hole, WY to Colorado Springs. I am trying not to let the stress of new jobs, house, upcoming marriage interfere with what was a pretty established work out routine but I am having trouble in that department. I look forward to encouraging, and being encouraged by everyone!



[This message has been edited by Laura (edited 09-13-2000).]

[Ruthie]

Hello All. This is such a great support system! I'm 33 (34 next month) and moved to a new city, got married and started a new job situation (home office). Being alone a lot during the day with very little social interaction has sent me to an old friend ... food. I gained 30 pounds in the last 1 1/2 years and would like to take it off. We would like to get pregnant within the year and I'd really feel more comfortable losing the weight pre-pregnancy. My husband (who has also gained lbs. since our wedding) is a huge eater and not terribly supportive of my "eat healthy, exercise" habits. Hey - if you all can do it WITH kids, there's no reason I can't find time to cook more and exercise! You are all inspirational. Look forward to the support.

[fitmom]

Hi, my name is Alli and I'm 30 years old. I am a stay at home mommy to 2: Zachary is 6 and Jillian is 21 months. I've been married for 9 years. I exercise strictly at home using step aerobics and weight training. I have about 30 lbs to lose. I know it can be done because I did it before. After my son was born, I was able to get down to a size 5. I started battling depression when he was around 2 years old. The anti depressents made me gain weight plus, I no longer really cared about food and exercise. Now, after my second child and recovery from depression and am desperate to lose weight. I've gone through the fad diets and pills all of which don't work (as I'm sure everyone knows). Now, I'm ready to do it right.

I'm looking forward to getting to know all of you.

[KristaMB]

Okay, I must admit that when I first read about this idea, I was thinking how nice this would be for everybody- everybody except me. But after reading the posts here and on the "goal" post, I realized that I really could use some motivation. I am 26 and think I weigh about 135 pounds. I have a gym memebership but have not been in about 14 months. Excellent http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/rolleyes.gif I work full time and my husband is a full time student who also runs his own business. I love Cooking Light but have been off the cooking band wagon lately because I really don't like cooking just for myself, and my husband is just so busy! Maybe my problem is that I want somebody to help me do the dishes...

[Natasha]

Hi fellow HLSG members! Hope your week is going well.

Time for a quick intro. My interests include cooking, eating (OH YES!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif ), dogs, languages, and reading, to name but a few. But I really love sports (though I m not much into playing team sports anymore - too uncoordinated! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif ) and fitness. As some of you may already know, I m a runner. I also read everything I can get my hands on about sports nutrition and enjoy reading about sports medicine too. At one point I thought I might want to become a kinesiologist but that fell by the wayside as I became interested in other things as well.

Anyway, I also love these boards. This is such a nice community! I have learned a lot and had so much fun on these boards over the past 10 months or so. Everyone is so friendly and helpful. Perfectly suited for a group like this. Best of luck again, everyone.

[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 09-16-2000).]

[food girl]

I have been watching this board trying to decide if I wanted to participate or just "lurk".

I am 32, married, no kids. I am a registered dietitian. I am going to try really hard not to throw in my professional opinions! I am no expert at weight loss. I am not sure that anyone is because it is so individual.

I will admit that I have had a Dr. Pepper and a bag of M&Ms today! I am a little overweight and this has happened since I have changed jobs. I was working in the hospital where I took the stairs and walked the halls constantly. Now I cover 2 clinics that are on the same floor. My office is on the 6th floor. I take the elevator all the time! What has happened to me?

Don't get me wrong, I get PLENTY of exercise. I have biked 70 miles this week (real bike with real hills)...but I have had the mocha chocolate cheese cake, the monte cristo sandwich and so on.

Do you ever feel like you really focus on food to much? Thinking of food, planning dinner, reading about recipes.. It is my job and my hobby. I am in trouble!

My goal: Starting Monday--no more elevator!

I know that it sounds small, but if I take the stairs 6 times a day (200 calories)x 5 days x 15 weeks = will be a 5 lb weight loss by Christmas.

[Janet R]

Hello! My name is Janet and I am a SAHM of 2 Children; a girl age 8, and a boy age 7. I am 29 years old, and have had Crohn's Disease for 6 years. That presents a whole other side to my problem. As a teen and until I was 22, I was quite heavy (230). After many years of being teased and put down, I became Anorexic. At the same time, my disease was starting to show itself. Within 1 year I had lost 124 pounds. I became so ill that my kidneys failed and I was forced to be hospitalized. To make a very long story short, I have now had many treatments, 3 surgeries, and I have an ileostomy (intestinal bypass). The goodnews is after being told more than once that I may not be able to pull through, I have been in remission for over a year. Praise the Lord!
The anorexia is still a battle at times, but it has developed into a multitude of other forms. An even longer story. Anyway, for about the past 9 months, I have been gaining weight very easily. Too easily. Even though everyone thinks I am so thin and that I look so good, I feel so FAT. I've very depressed lately, and when I get depressed I eat. I usually always eat so healthy, but recently I just feel out of control. Not only of food, but of my whole life. That's a whole other story.
I think my problem is not so much my eating habits, as it is my general unhappiness with my life, and my lack of motivation. I just can't seem to find the energy some days to get dressed. I really need some motivation.
I would like to get a partner to help motivate me, cheer me up, listen to my concerns, and just be a friend. Ideally, that would be a face-to-face relationship, but this world is anything but ideal. I know I have gabbed on for ever, but it was just great to have the opportunity to connect with someone. I would appreciate any feedback and/or advice.
Hope to hear from you soon.

[lindrusso]

Janet R,

Welcome to our support group! Boy, it sounds like you have been through so much! I certainly hope that you can find motivation and support from our group, but I have to ask if you are receiving help from a professional on a continuing basis? I am not a professional, but it sounds like perhaps depression may also be an issue?

I'm sure you'll find many helpful and friendly people here - there is an "eating disorders" thread a few subjects below - you may find that helpful. And as Becky suggests, there are other websites that deal directly with eating disorders that may be of help.

Of course you are welcome here and I hope you find what you are looking for, but I feel I must express my concerns.
You seem to have several complex issues going on and I'm afraid that our little group just may not be enough.

I sincerely wish you the best in your efforts to be healthy and I hope you find the help you need - either here or elsewhere.

[Natasha]

Janet R,
The HLSG group is brand-new, but I have the feeling it s full of caring and supportive peers. I agree with Lindrusso that we may well not be enough to help you on our own (we are not pros here), but if you want some general healthy-living support, we re here. I wish you all the best. By the way, how wonderful that you ve been in remission for over a year now! Take care.

[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 09-23-2000).]

[Janet R]

Thank you for your words of encouragement. True my problems are complex, but after so many years I feel that I have a handle on things. For the most part anyway. And no, I am not receiving any professional help with depression. I am trying to work out as many problems without being on medications, since anti-depressants make me ill. I've tried several already.
There are times when I am so motivated, and I think with a source of encouragement and support, I can carry this with me. It's hard to stay motivated when you have no one to share it with.
Though my husband is a wonderful person, it is not very emotional supportive. I am the strong person in my family, taking care of everyone else. The problem is that by the end of the daay, there is no time for taking care of me. Sometimes I feel as though I walk through my day alone, even though people are all around me. They just don't understand how I feel, and quite frankly, telling them is useless. They just don't hear me. It's true, being a women is the hardest job in the world.
Today was a relatively good day. I have been eating well, but haven't done anything active. I spent the biggest part of my day, scouring my CL cookbooks. I can spend an entire day reading them. Before I had to quite working, I was a chef. Cooking and food has been my life. Maybe that helps you understand my obsession a little better.
Do any of you belong to a CL Supper Club? Thatis my next goal. I have posted a few boards. I am from Chillicothe, Ohio. Not exactly a highly populated area.
Well until next time, here is wishing all good health and great eating.

[lindrusso]

Originally posted by food girl:
Do you ever feel like you really focus on food to much? Thinking of food, planning dinner, reading about recipes..

Yes, yes, yes!!!! There are times when I outright wish I didn't care so much about food. It's a huge source of enjoyment - the preparation and the eating.

I see my son becoming the same way and looking to food as a source of pleasure. Hopefully he will have a head start in that we are finding healthier ways to enjoy food than my family did when I was little - it just wasn't an issue then. We certainly have room for improvement in our eating habits, but we don't have many of the foods around (at least not on an everyday basis) that were just part of life back then - like bacon, scrapple, and many other rich and fatty foods.

I don't plan to stop this enjoyment, I just need to stop using it as a crutch and to keep it under control. And more exercise would certainly help when I don't do a good job keeping it under control!

[cookgirl]

Hey Janet. I just replied to your eating disorder post. I wanted to say hello again, and I admire you for dealing with so much stress. (I'm interested to hear how you're recovering from your ileostomy. My husband may need one of those eventually.)
I know you don't want to get proffesional help on your situation, but I hope you can find somebody close to you to give you emotional support. We are here for you on this board, but I hope you someone nearer to you would be great. Maybe you can go on daily walks with this person. It would be nice if you could get your husband to be that person, but I also know from experience that it can be really helpful to you both if you have someone else you can talk to besides your husband. I don't mean to pry into to your personal life, but I really think you need it. You sound like you have a lot of weight to shed...only it's not the kind that you can see.
Hope your day is good today, and I look forward to seeing your next post.

[This message has been edited by cookgirl (edited 09-25-2000).]

[suezyd]

hi,
I just became a member tonight, and I think this is exactly what I need.
I'm in my early 20's and just like Comabri, I will think of a great excercise plan then two days later I'm doing anything but exercising. This has GOT to stop.
I'm worried that this will turn out to be another plan that i wont follow through with.
I am not really sure how much I want to loose. I think just loosing a little will help to modivate me to loose more.

I'm asthmatic so I cant really do alot of jumping around. Does anyone have any excercise ideas?

I would like to say that I have the worlds healthist diet, but this would be a lie. I am a vegetarian, and have a problem saying no to pizza, and the occasional chocolate and bag of chips.

Anyway, this truely is a great idea, I just hope I can keep up with you all!

[This message has been edited by suezyd (edited 09-27-2000).]

[THE BIG ORANGE BABE]

Hello Ladies,
I'm new to the board, but not to the "weight loss war". I've been overweight all of my life, and just like one of the other "girls",
my parents couldn't understand why I wouldn't, or couldn't lose weight. They did everything in their power to "make" me a thin person. Every time they criticized, it just made me eat more! My first trip to the
"diet Doctor" was at the tender age of 8 years old. This was the first year of Metrecal (anyone remember that product?). Through the years, I have lost and regained a million pounds. I'm now back up to a seriously high mark, and really need to lose
at least 80 pounds. I'm the type of person who really needs support, and all of you sound sincere about giving me what I need!
Thank you so much for starting this group, and hopefully letting me be a part of it.
My plans are to start Weight Watchers (again), but this time sticking with it.
Please keep this group going, as I am really excited about participating.

[lindrusso]

Big Orange Babe,

Gotta love that name - sounds particularly funny after reading about carrots turning your skin orange on the other thread! Welcome and of course we welcome you to participate in our little group. The more the merrier!

[DiSam 1]

Hi I have just found this site and sure want to share and get support with maintaining healthy living. I am 50 in November and like someone has said sure must put on 10lbs every 10 years. Well what I am trying to do is look at today and not look back at what I was and go on from here. I just started WeightWatchers and JJeannette your story of loosing 27 lbs is an inspiration to people like me. I have high blood pressure and alot of allergies so I try to stick to alot of low fat no salt and not alot of dairy.
My 87 year old Mom lives with my husband and I and those two can eat everything. I also suffer from migraines. With the reading of all of the stories in this bulletin board I feel motivated to keep on trying and each day turns a new leaf of some success. Thanks everyone and lets keep our selves going.

[Natasha]

Hi Suezyd and welcome!

There are many websites with articles, tips, and cautionary info about exercising when you have asthma. These are just a few of them:
http://www.mayohealth.org , http://www.lung.ca, and
http://www.nzhealth.co.nz .
Hope these help!

[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 10-08-2000).]

[mommywannabe]

Hi ladies. Just found this website and BB. You all seem like great people. A little info about me as an intro: I'm 30 (soon to be 31), married to a wonderful guy, work full time outside of the home, and don't yet have kids. My company is closing our office late next year, so we've decided to change that last point and have a baby. Anyway, I was always "pleasantly plump" growing up, but my family never got on me about it. I was at 190 when I graduated from college about 10 years ago and managed to lose about 50 pounds on my own. Boy, did that feel good http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif Of course, life happens and things change, right? The pounds crept back on until I was back up to 175 at the beginning of last year. Weight Watchers helped me be more conscious of healthy eating and I was down to 150 for my wedding. And then, of course, without that goal, it all came back and found me again!
So, now I'm just shy of 170 and have a new goal that will hopefully keep me motivated...my doctor suggested that I lose weight before I get pregnant so that I'm not carrying extra extra weight through my pregnancy. So, here I am working out almost every day and keeping track of my eating habits...it really does help, but you have to consciously make an effort to do it.
Well, that's me. My goal: drop 20 pounds by end of January. Talk to you all later http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[Gwenniver]

Hello, I'm Jen. I've been gradually gaining weight basically my whole life--from growing as a child to a slow gain from about 18 years old. I am 26 years old now. I just started Weight Watchers in July (through my office during lunchtime--very convenient, I'm glad my office set this up!). I started out at 168 (I'm 5 foot 2) and am now down to 150 lbs. My lifetime goal (subject to revision http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif) is 135. I've hit kind of a slowdown as I approached 150 lbs, and after spending three subsequent weeks weighing in at 150 point something, it's beginning to tick me off > http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/frown.gif ). Anyway, I've been working out consistently three times a week since May or so (Kickboxing Aerobics Tuesday, weights and treadmill one other weekday, and treadmill Saturday), and doing pretty well with it. I think maybe it's time to step up the exercise routine to get over this hump (more than 20 minutes at a time on the treadmill, more than three days a week?) and am interested to know what all of you think.. I think it would also be a good idea to get moving in fun ways like going bowling or mini golfing or swinging in the park.

Oh, I don't have any children (just me and my husband), but we are probably going to start trying this coming summer. I decided to lose weight for 2 reasons (didn't care all that much about the looks part <I say, lying through my teeth> ): diabetes runs in my family (my grandmother lost both legs at the knee to complications) as well as heart disease, and I was starting to feel uncomfortable in my body--you know, bits of me rubbing or bumping against other bits of me, strange aches and pains that I think were/are just the strain of extra weight. I want to make both of these non-issues. So, I'd like to get to goal weight in time to use the gift certificate for Lerner's clothing store my Mom's getting me for Christmas. I'd also like to cook more healthy meals, but don't know how to fit this in with more exercise and the rest of my life! Whoops, I guess I'd better repost that bit under Goals. Once again I ramble...

[Gwenniver]

Sorry this took so long to fix, guys--Geez, I need to get to the computer more often. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by Gwenniver (edited 10-18-2000).]

[Gwenniver]

[This message has been edited by Gwenniver (edited 10-18-2000).]

[Gwenniver]

[This message has been edited by Gwenniver (edited 10-18-2000).]

[Gwenniver]

[This message has been edited by Gwenniver (edited 10-18-2000).]

[Gwenniver]

[This message has been edited by Gwenniver (edited 10-18-2000).]

[Sandy1]

Hi my name is Sandy and I am a CL BB addict. PHEW.. got that out of the way...
I have been lurking here for the past couple of months and have just recently starting posting.
My goal is to maintain my weight loss and to keep exercising (went from 165 to 132 pds; clothing size 14 to size 8).

[ML]

Well, I just found my way from the Great Food side of the BB to the Healthy Living side! I really want to be a part of this HLSG.

I am 28 and married- no children yet. I am a counselor and so unfortunately I am sitting for most of the day- but that is no excuse. When I first met my husband, eight years ago ( we have only been married for 3 1/2), I was wearing a size 8-10. Now, I am 6 feet tall so that was ideal for me. Actually, I have come to realize that a size 8 is unrealistic- I was practically starving myself to stay that way. A size 10 is more realistic when it comes to maintianing.

Anyway, I am now wearing a 14. I do not get on scales so I am not sure what my actual weight is. My main problem is consistency in exercising and watching the sweets.

I have been on an "on again/off again" exercise program for approx. six months now. I have decided that this HLSG is the motivation I need. My goal is to be back in my size 10 clothes- which I still have! I am guessing I need to lose about 20 lbs.- but I really rely more on my closet than I do a scale.

So I am starting a little late- but plan to jump right in! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[lindrusso]

Welcome ML! Hope you find this group a help and we look forward to your input!

[MitchellsMom]

Hi! I just started on the CL BB yesterday, and just found this board today, which I think will be great help to me.

I'm 30 (am I really?), married 5 years, with an *almost* 2 year old. I would *like* to lose around 30 pounds, but really 10 or 15 would be more realistic. Hubby and I are trying to start eating better -- by first cutting down how much we go OUT to eat, and we have recently joined a gym. Unfortunately, just because you join doesn't mean you go! I went to an aerobics class for the first time today! (Yay me!)

I don't work outside the home currently, but am in search of a FT career and am trying to do some consulting (I am finishing up my doctorate -- writing the dreaded dissertation). We have moved four times in the past year -- twice in the past four months, so our lives have been very scattered, which hasn't helped our weight/health goals, but I am hopeful that I will soon make friends with the other ladies in my neighborhood to walk with and with the others at the gym. But this BB seems like a good place to come for support, encouragement, and friends, too! Anyone on the board from Nashville?!

Big Orange, does that refer to a football team?!

Well, I think LB ("Little Bit") is tearing up something, so I better run... Glad to meet you all!

[karen w]

Hello Everyone,
This is my first post on this bulletin board. I am a great food BB addict, but have been a little more fearful to post here. Well here goes. I am a 36 y.o. married stay at home mom(for the time being anyway) of three beautiful children(no biases there, of course). Two boys-ages 4 and 3, and a little girl-1 y.o. I am a physician(anesthesiologist) by training, and worked part time up until the birth of my daughter last August. I spent the year at home with my kids and nursed the baby (I just weaned her 2 weeks ago so my chest is finally getting back to normal!!) I have never had a weight issue before my pregnancies, and always lost my pregnancy weight right away. I am 5'2" 100#. Which is the reason I have been fearful of introducing myself. So please, don't hate me! OK? What I could do better at though is getting regular exercise. Not to lose weight, of course, but (as many of you know) that tone is just not the same after 3 pregnancies (in 3 1/2 years!) Usually by the end of the day I am so exhausted after chasing the three of them around all day, cleaning the house, fixing meals, worrying etc...that I figure I probably burned enough energy. I think they are the reason I stay thin! Anyway, I was a swimmer in high school, but now don't live near a pool. And I can't do any running. I have one knee that's been operated on, and the other needs the same operation, but I'm going to put it off until I can't stand the discomfort.(I have osteochondritis dessicans in my knees-a disease of teenage male runners!! Go figure!) My husband and I do, however, like to be active doing the family things, so we take alot of walks with the kids, the parks etc...I'm sure this helps. And we both eat a fairly healthy diet. I've been blessed with a husband who loves to eat healthy, lowfat cooking, lots of vegetables, and salads, and whose main complaint about a dish may be "needs more vegetables!" We eat this way, not to lose weight, obviously, but you feel healthier and discover food is tastier when not swimming in fat. You know, for someone who was afraid to post here, I think I've gone off on a tangent. I think I'll just stop now with a hello, and glad to be a member of this board, too!

[lindrusso]

Welcome Mitchell's mom and KarenW!

So you've had THREE kids and you only weigh 100 pounds - okay, I'll TRY not to hate you - http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif . I can remember (WAY, WAY back) when I was a size 3/4 - some people could be downright nasty about it. Just jealous, I guess!

But, even when you're thin, there's often still room for improvement in tone or cardiovascular conditioning or something, so don't feel funny posting on this board! There's at least a couple others here who aren't really looking to lose weight - just trying to maintain and be healthy. Wish I could say I was one of them.... http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif .

[karen w]

lindrusso,
Thanks for not making me feel silly. I just breathed a sigh of releif!
Karen