[Feisty49]

I'm 60 years old and recently widowed. While I've always been overweight, I've also done a lot of exercising and for the past few years, have maintained my weight so I was a woman's size 18, sometimes a 16.

When my husband became ill in the spring, I stopped exercising mostly because I had no time. When he died 3-1/2 months ago, I started eating. From not exercising and overeating I've put on 10 pounds. Clothes are tight and for the first time in years, I am not physically feeling well.

I post to a board for widows. Sharing specific life issues with others who know exactly what it's like helps.

Now I need a board for encouragement in losing the weight I've put on and perhaps losing more. I was so pleased to find this board which is current and very active.

I'm not one to sweat being the "right" weight. If I feel good, look good and my health is good without medication, then I'm happy, but it would be nice to have a buffer of weight loss so I don't go over 200 ever again! I'm now 205 but because of lack of exercise, feel like I'm 225!

Anybody else on here a "mature" woman? Our weight loss issues are different from a young person. Post-menopausal, slower metabolism, and perhaps physical problems which limit exercise options are against us.

[leeway]

Hi feisty49!
First of all, I'm so sorry for the loss of your dear husband - and I understand the weight gain - I gained a LOT of weight while caring for my invalid mother, even more when she passed, turning to food for comfort. Sounds like you're ready to take care of YOU now - 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! You'll also find info and first hand advice on different plans to help get through the ups and downs. Perhaps the 50+ group would be of interest, among others.

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 short time 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!

[Onederchic]

Welcome to 3FC and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

[Lincolns Sparrow]

Feisty, we are neighbors. I am in Onondaga County, just west of Syracuse (New York State).

I am 73 and, yes, I think weight etc. is different for older versus younger people.