Call me Ishmael...
 

Okay, don't really.

My name is Laura, and I'm a 21 year old college student with an intense desire to make some changes in her life. Not only changes like "find that thing that keeps beeping at 3:38 AM" or "stop wearing cheap lipsmacker lip gloss", but huge things like losing weight, getting healthy, and revamping my self-image. Although I really would like to find what the heck is making that beeping noise.

I'm going to start off with this well-known, cliche saying: "I've struggled with weight issues my entire life." I was born a bit chubby, and over the years I sort of convinced myself that I would die chubby...one of those cheery old ladies with the arm flab that give you old mints from their purses and wear tan velcro walking shoes. But the older I get, the more I realize I'm not ready to submit to a life of slowly teetering towards self-destruction and apathetic degradation. I want to experience my youth in a meaningful, exciting, unapologetically vibrant way, instead of this muffled existence sitting on the sidelines with a hot dog. I want to feel a way I've never felt before, and I think everyone here knows just what I'm talking about.

That dancing carrot emoticon on the righthand side of this textbox is really starting to creep me out.

I am a completely unsettled individual in an untold number of respects. I have a feeling that the weight thing will be only one of many changes that will come within the next two to three years, and I'm not only excited, but extremely frightened. But this first step will give me the courage and the confidence to take these ridiculous chances, knowing that I'm secure in my own skin and unafraid of what people think of me.

I know that is a somewhat vague paragraph, but this is one of those things where you're not sure how much information is TOO much information, especially on the first introduction. I once had a random man tell me how his ex girlfriend gave him two different STD's, and how he still hasnt told his current girlfriend...who then proceeded to exit the metro on the next stop. I was just kind of sat there dumbfounded thinking, "Wow, that guy really should have brought a crossword puzzle or something."

Yeah, seriously...that carrot...needs to be eaten by a giant pixelated rabbit.

But I hope to lose somewhere around 40 pounds within a year. While aimlessly surfing this incredible website I can see that my goal weight isn't as lofty as some others, who have done incredible jobs losing over fifty to a hundred pounds. But I know that these 40 pounds aren't just going to melt off by themselves, and I have to give up some of my best friends in life...Mr. Junk, Mrs. Junk, and little Junk Junior...and that's going to be the hardest part. But I also know that seeing what you guys have accomplished here, If I can't push myself to lose 40, then I'm a complete wimp. Like Mike Tyson at his momma's house.

I started excercising today, and feel wonderfully sore. I can't wait to feel it more often...its like the tingle that lets you know something's working. And it's also a constant reminder for you to not put something in your mouth that would completely undo all the work you just did.

I just realized how long this introduction is becoming...so I guess I'll cut this short. Thanks for putting up with my ramblings, guys, and I hope I didn't freak any of you out. Like this dang CARROT...

Please, please, please keep in touch with me, I know any support would be such a huge help. You have no idea how serious I am about doing this, but struggles are going to come. Cravings are starting even now!

Okay, I'm going to see that thing in my dreams tonight. I just know it.

~Laura~

Hi Laura,
Welcome! This is a great place to be. Everyone is very supportive, even the pelvic thrust carrot who seems to have gotten off to a bad start with you (he'll make it up in time). I don't think it matters how much any of us have to lose, if you're here, we'll give you support.

By the way, love the Quinn reference. What a great book!

Haha, this may sound a bit illiterate and uncultured...but what Quinn reference? I don't think I've read it. :-/

Kidding. :D

And thanks so much for the welcome!

Too funny! I was sure you were referring to "Ishmael" by Daniel Quinn.

The story begins with a newspaper ad: "Teacher seeks pupil, must have an earnest desire to save the world. Apply in person."

Just reminded me of your first sentence about change.

:o

And I just saw the kidding part!

Time to slow down and read before posting!

Haha, it's actually a reference to the first line of Moby Dick, but I know exactly the book that you're talking about!

Oh man! And I just read Moby Dick this year... if you had said "Just call me Quequeg" I would have been good!

OK, you two are truly funny! So, what's your major, anyway? Journalism? Lit? You make for a very interesting read!

Now, how do I add in a few carrots? Oh, here they are...:carrot::carrot:

So, what do you think of this guy? :broc: That was a great introduction, and I wish you all the luck you need, but I must say that I still love LipSmackers!

Welcome, Enjoyed your post. I'm sure you will get a lot of encouragment here. I hope you make peace with the dancing carrot. I know he can be intimidating but he is really harmless. But since you have a problem with him

:broc::broc::broc:

Is that better for you?

hehehe auntieg. great minds think alike!

Hahahahahaha. I just LOVE your post. So cute. I hope you stick around the threads! If you want an accountability partner - I'm your girl. And I hate carrots - so you're safe. I'll stick to the dancing broccoli. Good luck on your weight loss and the beeping sound!

I don't know, the dancing broccoli looks a bit menacing with it's foofy green plume of fury over its head. Although the green IS much more festive.

I'm actually studying a few things...I'm about to finish up an AA in liberal arts and an AA in fine arts, and I've earned two certificates in 3D computer animation. I actually work in the media arts lab as a TA helping people out with 3Ds max and Softimage XSI, which is awesome. My goal is to work at Rhythm and Hues studio in LA as a modeller/animation technician.

After this semester I'm transfering to Cal State to get a BA in graphic design, as well. I'm really excited. :)

I suppose I'll have to give the dancing carrot a chance, although he might not like the fact that I'm going to be eating many of his kind over the next year. They won't be as hyper, I'm afraid, especially after being bagged up and stuck in the boxy tundra I like to call my fridge.

Hey, nobody's done the banana yet! :cb:

Welcome!

welcome!! And glad to hear you're making this change for you and in such a positive light.

Can't wait to see your progress!! :)

Thanks so much everybody. :D I've only started the change for two days now, excercising between half an hour to an hour both days and eating healthier, and I've already gone down to 165 lbs from a starting weight of 168. I'm sure some of that is due to a reduction in water retention (i've been on my period), but it's still really encouraging!

I'm an old lady with bat wing arms, support hose, beige shoes and Werthers in my purse and got the Moby reference right away.

Wait until you see the Thanksgiving smiley. I've always wondered about it - they don't call me Ruthxxx for nothing.
:turkey: At least the turkey is smiling! :rofl:
:welcome: to 3FC. There's lots of motivation, info and support on this site.

Ruth, Werthers are seriously the bomb. And tan shoes can be fashion-forward if you pair them with some dark bluejeans and a sweater. :D

And it's okay, Aud, you can call me Blue if you want. Just don't call me Shirley!

Originally Posted by RedPorcupine:
I'm sure some of that is due to a reduction in water retention (i've been on my period), but it's still really encouraging!

Water reduction = still pounds lost... :) definitely way encouraging...

We can do this!
We ARE NO longer "fast-food" friends.
This is an awesome step!!

:d :d :d :d :d :d :d :d :d :d