Welcome jojo23 -- I am new also --

I can't even imagine how painful the loss of youir daughter must have been -- I am so sorry to hear about it -- I do however understand fully about consoling yourself with food. I have been through some extremely stressful and painful stuff myself, and eating was a good way to numb the pain (or so I thought at the time). But then one day you just kind of wake up and look at your body and realize how awful you feel being so heavy, and realize that you have to do something about it. That's what happened to me in 2004 when I lost more than 45 lbs, and again last year after I regained back about half of what it took me so long to lose. It sounds like you are at that point yourself.

This is a great place -- the people are so warm and supportive -- and they understand exactly what you are going thru in trying to lose weight. There are many different forums here -- just look around and see where you feel like you may fit in, and start posting. I am sure that you will like it here as much as I do.

Again -- welcome !

You've hit the nail square on the head Karen. I find it quite easy to lose the weight, but a whole new ball game is keeping it off! I intend to have a different outlook this time. Speed of loss isn't the be all and end all. I have trouble with joints... painful ankles, knees and hips and 2 thumbs. I'm sure shedding weight then piling it back on is the reason. Good luck and thanks for your post

I also have a lot of pain in my joints -- plus my lower back. I find when I am heavier it's a lot worse, so I am hoping that the reverse is true, and that it will get better as I continue to get lighter.