[MelbaMel0905]

Hi all, my name is Melissa and I'm sick of being fat! I'm 24 now and I have battled with my weight since I was about 15 years old. I was always an active child who played sports, was outside a lot, etc. but after puberty everything really caught up with me.

Right now I'm at about 250lbs and I'm hoping to eventually get down to about 150. That's 100lbs and it sounds so scary but I'm ready to do it this time! I went back to the gym today for the first time in about 6 months and it felt great! Now, I just gotta stick with it.

A little about me... As I said I'm 24 years old. I'm engaged and live with my fiance and mom (who I am a caregiver for). We have a Boxer dog named Giddy and a chameleon named Roy. I love the outdoors and in the summer time we go camping almost every weekend. I live for outdoor concerts and I LOVE music! I work as a home health aide with the elderly and developmentally disabled and I love my job.

Now that I have bored you all with a mini-novel I'll be on my way. I really look forward to getting to know everyone on this site and making some friends!

[Hannah123]

Congratulations on getting back to the gym! It sounds like you support and help many people, don't forget about YOU...and make you and your goal a real priority. Sometimes it's tough to find time for oneself but it's so very important.

[Sakai]

My name's Melissa too!
it's good that you got back to the gym. Try not to think of that huge number you have at the end of your goal. I've been trying to think of it in 20 pound bits so I'm not so overwhelmed with it. good luck and I hope to see you around on the boards. ^.^

[Violet73]

welcome! like Melissa said dont think of it as 100 pounds...think of it like you need to lose 20 pounds five times or 10 pounds 10 times! that is what I tell myself lol

[MelbaMel0905]

Thanks for the encouraging words, everyone! It does seem a lot easier when you break it down into small increments but it's so hard not to focus on that one big goal!

[CLCSC145]

Welcome, Melissa! You can do it!

[Onederchic]

Welcome to 3FC and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

[leeway]

Hi Melissa!
Sounds like you have a lovely family and a rewarding job - you're already off to a good start and I know you'll be successful in your quest for a healthier you - the support you need is here - 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 and exercise to help choose the right ones 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!

All the best - good luck with your goals,
Lee

[SilverShine]

Hi Mel,

Seems like you have a great life in most people's standards.

Take weight loss as another challenge and you'll make it!

[Shorty28]

Welcome to 3FC and Good Luck!!!