[physlet]

Hello! I am a 28 year old SAHM to my wonderful 9 month old daughter, Audrey (although I'll be going back to work soon). Unfortunately, I put on about 30 pounds in the year preceding her birth due to various factors and another 30 from the pregnancy, bringing me up to 200 lbs. I am worried about my health and the quality of life I am able to provide for both me and my daughter at my current weight. I was always a very active person, but I am now embarrassed to go out as much as I used to. I feel much less attractive; while my boyfriend of 5+ years still loves me, I know he would be more attracted to me if I were smaller even if he doesn't say so. For that matter, I would feel more attractive and regain the self-confidence I seem to have lost along the way. I used to get hit on everywhere we went, and now I don't even know the last time anyone looked twice at me. I can't exercise the way I used to because now I get back pains, shin splints, and various other pains from being so out of shape. All in all, I'm very frustrated with my body right now. I want to lose weight for various reasons, but they can all be summed up by saying that I want to improve the quality of life for me and my family.

[luckymommy]

Physlet!

It's so tough to gain weight and not to feel like yourself. I can really relate to your situation. I was in the same boat just in the middle of March. I hit rock bottom when I went to SouthBeach, FL w/ my hubby and kids for Spring Break. It was the worst feeling, but when I came back, I realized I needed to finally stop wanting to lose weight, but to actually do it! I started counting calories (which I know sounds tough, but it's actually incredibly easy for me now that I'm used to it) and working out a lot (6 days a week or so). I started small, but I kept on increasing it and always pushing myself. Anyway, I started losing weight and although it went fast, it didn't feel fast. For me, it couldn't come fast enough, but I've learned to stop pressuring myself in the midst of such a tough fight. During the time I was at my heaviest, I was embarassed to be seen...especially at my gym (I had gained weight very quickly due to chronic daily migraines). But, I swallowed my pride and just went. I figured: who cares what they all think? In no time, I'll be smokin' hot and they'll want to know how I did it! Yes, it felt horrible to walk in the gym or to go to a party and not to eat what I want and to sacrifice, all the while nobody knows you're doing something amazing. But, I just kept rewarding myself and after a few months, they started to notice. Now, people ARE asking me how I did it (even though I'm still doing it). I try to keep my routine very challening and I try to switch it up whenever I can so that my body doesn't get used to it.

The point I'm trying to make w/ my long story is: forget what others think. Do it for you and then, you'll do it once and for all. If you fall off, jump right back on. You're human! You are also not defined by your size and if anyone doesn't get that, then they're not worth your time.

I wish you lots of luck and I highly recommend you read old posts in areas of interest. YOU CAN DO THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[smeegirl]

First off.....CONGRATULATIONS!!!!...On becoming Audrey's Mommy.

Second, Good luck and many prayers that you will reach your goals.

A few of us that just signed on with 3FC wanted to get together (at least for our 1st few weeks) to try and be a support group for each other. I just started a new thread today and hope to see a few newcomers there.

The thread title is "New in July - Join the discussion"

I hope you will pop in and let us know how things are going for you, and ask any questions you might have.

Good Luck!

[Leenie]

and

[SunshineCA]

Just popping in to welcome you!

[Mollikins]

and on taking that first step !!

You CAN do it !

[RLK2005]

I am new here, too--well, new AGAIN. I just wanted to say that I really understand where you are coming from. Your post almost could have been written by me! I wish you the best--your motivation is in the right place. I really try to focus on getting healthy and setting an example for my little ones.

[hollymommy]

Welcome!!!

I feel the same way about myself. But my "baby" is 4!!

[golfinchick8]

Welcome to the group! You can do this!