[Karavan]

Actually, I've been 39 for almost 4 years now. :-) I don't feel it physically yet and I definitely don't feel it inside!

I'm Karen, a wife, mom of 3, teacher and aspiring jewelry designer. I'm at my heaviest weight though it's not a lot to most people who are struggling. It is, however, a big thing for me.

I was fit up until about 5-6 years ago when my exercise routine got broken. I haven't been back to the gym more than 2-3 times since. I have kept my gym membership though! I'm basically lazy when it comes to exercise. I work and then go home to work on my websites. No one can lose weight that way, I know. Last night I caught myself in the mirror as I was changing clothes and was horrified. I'd finally had enough. No more, "Oh well" attitude for me!

My starting goals are to walk at least a mile 3x per week, eat more whole foods, drink more water (starting and about 2 cups a day, goal to reach at least 5-6 a day), and not eat past 8:00 (we're late eaters).

I look forward to making some new online friends and weight loss buddies.

Karen

[jademarlene]

Hi Karen, welcome to the boards.

[Beemer]

Hi Karen and welcome to the board!! It is so easy to let a few pounds sneak up on you without notice unless you are really concious of it. I had the same thing happen to me. When I turned 40 I thought enough is enough. I didn't want to be any older and having to deal with it so I took action.

Someone asked me about New Years resolutions last night and I said no this was my turning 40 years old resolution, LOL!! I have been doing this since November and am at the point where I see no turning back to my old ways. I feel sooo much better now!

I have a friend named Karen who is also a jewelry designer. I love to go over there and make some up with her. I go to shows with her once in awhile too where she sells it. I love all of my custom made pieces! Good luck in your endeavor with that and with the weight loss!!

[fitredchick]

Hello Karen....I know what you mean, and I am sure everyone on this board can relate to the pounds sneaking up. I think the secret is to keep wearing clothes too small for us! That'll help in keeping away from the sweets.

Wearing stretchy pants is a mistake... for me anyway.

welcome and take care,
Sandra

[luvmyboys]

Hi Karen,
I'm a 42 year mom, mother of 3, and a teacher, too! I know for me it's hard when I'm stressed out to keep away from the junk at school, but I feel so much better when I do. I'm trying to lose that awful 5-7 pounds that just keep me feeling uncomfortable. It's so hard, I know! Just woke up early to go for a morning run. Welcome!!

[archychick]

Hiya Karen!

Embrace your 40's! I am going to turn 41 in April. The day I hit 40 I was depressed until a woman in the grocery parking lot told me "Welcome, it's good over on this side of 40!" and you know what? She was right!

I dig you about personal weight. Each of us has a standard for our own bodies so what seems like alot to one isn't to another. It's not important around here as I've found that everyone respects that. WELCOME!

I've only been here for a couple of weeks and I've already lost 5 lbs! There is just something in the air - breathe. Shouldn't take you long to reach your goal and then you can keep encouraging us!