You know, it's hard to say why this time is different. I guess for me, it's been a long time coming. I've been dieting for over 25 years. I've been on so many diets, I've lost track. Over the past few years, I've been feeling more and more out of touch with my body. I became dismayed as my weight crept up higher and higher. Then, in 2004, I hit 307 lbs. Though I stayed at that weight for more than 2 years, I told myself I could get below 300 easily. After all, it was only 7 lbs. (I didn't even entertain the thought of weight loss beyond that.) But nothing seemed to work, and in truth, I didn't make much of an effort exercise-wise. Plus, I started a new job in 2005, and my work schedule exploded. I had no free time. Fast food became a way of life. Thought I ate salads from time to time, I had no set plan. I did not exercise at all.
Then, on New Year's Day 2007, I stepped on the scale and it read 315. I couldn't believe I had gained 8 pounds while I was trying to lose 7! I promised myself that I would make a change right then and there. I would keep trying to lose the weight no matter what. I would not give up and allow myself to wallow in obesity. I would take control of my body and my weightloss.
I now have a target of reaching my goal weight by my next high school reunion in April 2008. My plan is working for the time being, and I'm even exercising more frequently. It's hard, but this time it will be different. I just know it.