Hey, there. I'm StellaJ and I am new to 3FC. I'm not new to losing weight. I had a lot of success in 2007 on Weight Watchers, losing 76 pounds in less than a year. Unfortunately, I gained 64 pounds back by self-medicating my depression (over fertility issues) with food.

I realize the speed at which I lost weight before was too fast for my body. I am ready to start over and find a plan that works for me. I want to steadily lose weight until I get to my goal. If that means working at those 60 pounds for more than a year, that's fine with me. I just want to be healthier and be able to maintain my goal weight.

About me: I am 31 year old middle school teacher. I am married (4 years coming up) with three cats and no children (yet). My husband is also heavy and would like to lose 70 pounds. We are in it together!

I enjoy reading and watching reality TV. I speak Spanish (studied for eight years, taught it for three years, and live in a bilingual household) and am set to take an Italian class in the fall semester coming up.

Welcome to 3FC StellJ.

Are you following any weight loss programs at present?

I'm doing a Weight Watchers type. My own mix, really. Do you have any suggestions?

Welcome Stella!

I did WW on my own prior to this--about 20 years ago!

This time around, I'm following a portion based plan (set out by Bob Greene in his Best Life Diet book) of 1600 calories a day. It's been a little more than a month and it's working really well for me. --I eat mostly "whole" foods. I cook for the family and I haven't really had to change much. I had dreadful eating habits--and when I ate I consumed way too many simple carbohydrates and hardly any fruits and veggies.

This is a fantastic place for support and for information. One of the best threads ever is about inspiring books to read: that's been very helpful--as well as the advice to treat losing weight as if it is your new hobby!

Sorry, didn't mean to write a book!

Hello and welcome, I'm new here too.

I think it's great that you and you're husband are doing this together! Makes it so much easier.