[jessabee]

Hi everyone,

I'm Jessica, and I'm new to the site/forums. I'm joining in search of support and motivation to really, permanently change my lifestyle. I'm 21. My boyfriend is talking about engagement. I want to be healthy, and I want to have more self-confidence as I move from college into "real" adulthood.

In the past, I've yo-yoed from 196 down to 150 (mostly by extremely unhealthy starvation methods) and then I gained 65 pounds back in one year. I've put on another 20 over the past year, leaving me with a current weight of about 235. It's so depressing . This time, I want to do things the healthy way. My goal is about 143, since I still could have stood to lose a few more when I was at 150. Now my only hope is that I don't suffer from too much loose skin...but I try to remind myself that healthy is more important than the aesthetics.

I'm excited to meet everyone and start contributing to the discussions here. More power to all of you for seeking a healthier lifestyle, and I thank you in advance for your support of me trying to be healthier too. Let's do this!

[Circebee]

Welcome, Jessabee! What a wise "graduation gift" to give yourself- a life of health and self-confidence! I'm so glad to see you here on 3FC now. So many of us yo-yo diet through our 20s, and have to live with the unfortunate results in our 30s and 40s- saggy skin, slower metabolisms, etc. You have the smarts to address your lifestyle now, and avoid many of those annoying pitfalls, while enjoying your new energy. Best of luck- look around, this is the most supportive, diverse, and amazing group of people that I've ever met!

[meowee]

. . . so glad to have you joining us . . . this is a great place for ongoing support and encouragement as you travel that road to better health and fitness . . .

[ellis]

Welcome, Jessica!

Don't worry about the skin. You're very young, and your skin may "bounce back" nicely. Best wishes to you!

[mandalinn82]

Hey Jessica!

Even if the skin doesn't bounce back, its about 10 million times easier to deal with when getting dressed than fat. Really. Promise.

Check out the 20-somethings and the 100-lb club, look around for more spots you might fit, and settle right in. Can't wait to get to know you better!

[SilentBlue]

Welcome! I'm striving for a healthier me also. Good Luck!