Congratulations on your new start! Good for you to do it now. I am 33, and have been a slightly chubby to obese person since I was younger. I had leaner times when I lost "baby fat".....then puberty hit. It was hips, thighs and breasts......oh my!
I have struggled for a long time too with self confidence. I have been put down plenty of times in the past also. People suck, and are dumb is the conclusion I come to. I hear on a daily basis the doctors and nurses I work with making derogatory comments about our more overweight patients......and they do it right in front of me.

It pisses me off and makes me want to treat those patients with even more respect.
Be strong.....and be proud of who you are, and for taking on this journey! That is amazing that you were able to make a change. And even the smallest things count.
As other posters said, you are beautiful. Remember that every day. Think of the good things you can offer to friends and others around you. Most importantly, think of the things you can offer yourself.....love, self respect, encouragment and understanding.
I have come along way in the last 8 years......and have done some back sliding from time to time.

But, learning to respect me.....and finally realize the things I am capable of,and the good I can do....it was a great experience. I hope you are able to do the same.
Good luck!