[time2blossom]

Hi!
Just wanted to introduce myself. I am new here. I have never been to this site and feel like I am so lucky to have found it. It seems like the perfect place for me. I am looking for support because I feel like I am completely out of control when it comes to weight and food.
I am 33 years old, a wife, mother of 2 beautiful daughters (ages 3&6), and a second grade teacher.
I have seen myself as heavy ever since I was a little girl. The ironic thing is... when I look back of pictures of myself as a little girl and older... I was not really heavy at all. I think I have had a poor self image my whole life. The other ironic part is that I have been a very confident person and have, for the most part, really liked myself... up until now. I know ... sounds confusing
In college I gained weight and left at about 175 lbs. I started my career as a teacher, was married in 1999 and maintained that weight for a long time. I gained weight with my first child, gained weight with my second child, and just kept gaining since then.
Today, I weigh 212 lbs. I weighed 207lbs, the day I gave birth to my first daughter! I now weigh more than that not pregnant!!!
I have a wonderful husband and gorgeous children. I have a solid (yet stressful) career and live in a nice community. I have loving family and friends....
But, I am not happy and it is effecting everything I do. I need to change! I am exhausted, irritated, and down about life.
I would love to be part of this community to help me along the way. I started exercising a few weeks back and doing a good job. I just need to stay motivated and have others I can talk to about the journey.

Thank you for the opportunity!

Blossom

[Violet73]

blossom...welcome! this is a great place for support! I am starting this process too and trying to figure out what diet plan is right for me. There are a lot of great people here with some great stories. Good luck!

[luckymommy]

Welcome aboard Blossom! You are definitely in the right place! I thank the my lucky stars for having found this place! I don't think I would have done as well as I have without it! I highly recommend you figure out what plan you want to pursue. I really believe in having an eating plan, keeping a food journal and having an exercise plan. It's not complicated...simple as can get, but it's all about consistency. By the way, I also gained more weight after I had my two boys than while I was preggers with them, but it's all good, because you can do this and you will!!!

[Onederchic]

Welcome to 3FC and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

[leeway]

Hi Blossom!
Sounds like you're ready to go and are off to a good start - the support you need is here - good luck with your goals - we'll all be here to cheer you on!

Glad to have you join us! There are lots & lots of different groups and forums - I'm sure you'll find some that will keep you motivated, inspired and entertained! There's also info and first hand advice on different eating plans to help choose the right one for you and get through the ups and downs.

There are bunches of people here with more to lose and some with less - the bottom line is that we all have to do it a day at a time. The good thing is that we'll have lots of company along the way.

I've only been here a few months myself, having NEVER been part of an online forum. What has been so eye-opening is how much it has helped me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or defeated, I just log on and read some of the success stories, complete with their before & after photos - or read about others still dealing day to day with their challenges - and before I know it, the time has flown by and so have all the thoughts of cheating or giving up.

So welcome - you 've found the right place - join in by inspiring us and being inspired!

[LotusMama]

Welcome, Blossom! It sounds like you are ready to make a change; you have come to the right place.

I wish you the very best on your weight loss goals!

Cheers,

J

[vanessa761]

Hi Blossom. We are in the same boat. I also weigh more now than when I was pregnant with my two kids. I am starting my weight loss journey too. Hopefully we will get to know each other.

[time2blossom]

Thank you all so much for the posts! I was so happy when I came on today to see that someone actually posted a reply to me! Yeah...my first step!
I am going to take your advice, luckymommy, and sit down tonight and come up with a plan.... and eating, exercising, and relaxing plan! I have to find ways to find time for myself. It has been hard for me this year with a 3 year old, a 6 year old, and a full time teaching job with 7 year olds!!! I feel forever needed!!!

Anyone have any great stress reducers or relaxing plans?

I am also getting my blog started... haven't got too far yet. But, I am excited to journal on a daily basis and be accountable.

We had a beautiful snowfall last night. It was perfect for the town tree lighting and parade of lights... but, it also reminded me that I do not fit in to any of my snow clothes... skipants won't snap... jacket won't zip... aughh... how did this all happen?

Thanks for listening!
Blossom {to be honest...this is just my nickname, but I love it}

Would love to get to know you too... Vanessa761

[Heidi58]

Hello,

I'm also a teacher and also live in New England. I get what you mean about the jackets and ski pants, I'm still wearing my midweight fleece because my warm jacket is too tight. Just think though - this time next winter we'll be shopping for new, smaller winter wear.

Good luck to you!

[Supa]

Hallo and welcome! ^^

[Grace73]

Welcome!
Well you know what they say.. Burn more than you eat..= Weight loss.
I have been in and out of here for years.. I recently been back!
So good luck to you! if you have motivation you can do it!!!
Keep Focused!

[boardchick]

Welcome Blossom!!!! )