Hello. I have just registered and would like to join all of you in your dieting journey. My name is Julie and I am 54 years old, married with no children. I have 6 cats that I consider my children. I need to lose around 100 lbs so I'm going to jump right into the 100 lb club
I'm like so many others, and have been dieting most of my life. When I was 18 I wanted to lose 20 lbs (160 to 140) when I was 25 I was back at 160. When I reached 200 I cried and swore I'd loose it once and for all. When I was 40 I reached 220 and at 50 I was fluctuating between 220 and 240. Three years ago I quit smoking and three months after I quit smoking my baby brother committed suicide. I managed to keep from smoking but I put on additional weight and have settled in at 260. I've tired numerous diets and the one that works best for me is counting calories. I have been using FitDay for several years although I use the PC version rather than online.
I plan to continue to count calories and increase my exercise. I have both a treadmill and reclining bicycle at home. I bought the reclining bike because I have difficulty with my feet hurting and walking just makes it worse. I thought the reclinicng bike would help me get more exercise. My husband and I are Master bbq judges with the Kansas City Barbeque Society and judge meats almost every weekend from March - October. Judging means we have to take a bite or two of as many as six entries times four meat categories. Sometimes we also judge other items, including desserts but that doesn't happen very often. I actually fill up on meat and don't eat the remainder of the day so I've been able to at least hold my weight without increasing it on judging weekends.
We also whitewater raft and kayak. This past weekend we went on a rafting trip. These guided rafting trips always include 20-something men and women who are trim and fit. I'm tired of being the fat whale on these trips. I'm not going to give up rafting so I'm going to have to give up some of the weight.
Whew, if you've made it this far, thank you for taking the time to read my introduction. I look forward to participating in these forums. When I quit smoking I participated in a forum and found the support immensely helpful. I plan to particpate and provide support as I take support as well.
Julie
New from Georgia
I'm so sorry to hear about your baby brother. We lost my brother's 2 bestfriends to suicide years ago and I don't think I'll ever understand it, but over the years I've come to accept it. I'm also tired of being the "fat chick" in the room or on trips or, more importantly, in the group photo...I'm working on changing that. 
