Hi everybody! I've run into a few of you on other threads and finally have found my way through the forums to what I suspect may be one of my best support groups (along with calorie counters). Yup, I'm an old-fashioned calorie counter.
I hit my all-time high (270) at the end of 2004, then ended up hospitalized with a serious problem and couldn't eat for several weeks and lost 25 pounds (sometimes I wish I could have bottled that feeling of being repulsed by food!). I didn't diet this year, but did keep that 25 pounds off. I've started intentionally dieting 3 weeks ago and have been doing well. I have several things motivating me right now; most of them boil down to health concerns. I'm 46 and my golden girl luck on cholesterol, BP, diabetes, etc. just isn't going to last much longer. I don't EVER want to worry about having those tests done at the doctor's office again. At least, not when it's something under my control.
The FUN part of my motivation is a big hike in Yosemite National Park scheduled for next August with one of my sisters and my niece. I don't plan to have hit goal weight by then (I just can't get THAT aggressive and still be able to think at work), but I *do* want to be as deep into Onederland as I can get.
I tend to post a fair amount--yeah, I can get chatty all right.
I'm looking forward to learning more from all of you and definitely for the shared motivation heading into 2006. Boy, starting to watch my diet and exercise in the last month of the year felt a little silly, but it's SO nice to go into 2006 with a plan already in place.
Tracy
Another Club Newbie
Tracy! This is really a great forum, lots of really good threads. You definately find all the support and encouragement here!
I would LOVE to go hiking in Yosemite! That'll be so beautiful!! 
to you, 
