Newbie - 53 years old, Northern CA
 

Well hello everyone! I am new to this site, but not new to the weight loss journey. I have been struggling with weight issues most of my adult life. Reaching the age of 53 changed my mind set, but being a grandmother of four beautiful grandchildren changed my determination. I want to be around a very long time and to be a part of my grandchildrens life and to be a role model for them.

At the beginning of this year I took my granddaughter to an amusement park and could not sit in the ride with her. I was humiliated beyond words. That is when the spark went off and I decided to devote the next few years to making a change.

My weight was 253 in January and I now weigh 217 (my goal is to reach 150 pounds by 2012). I have made changes to my diet; added whole wheat pasta, brown rice, no trans fat, added a ton of fiber and have added fresh veggies and fruit to my daily diet. I have added more fish and chicken to my diet as well, drink a lot of water and enjoy my chocolate daily. I walk during my lunch hour, 2.5 miles per day and devote an hour four days a week to working out to a Leslie Sansone Walking DVD (3 miles), two days a week I do some weight training with yoga or pilates (all in the comfort of my home). I also ride my bicycle of the weekends (averaging 15 miles per ride). I know this sounds like a crazy schedule, but I have made the decision that my life is important and I need to make changes. I look forward to working out now (who would imagine). I feel great, have more energy and I can now start seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.

I really needed to connect with others going through this difficult challenge. I have a supportive husband and friends, but they do not need to lose weight and cannot truly understand my daily struggles.

I am looking forward to hearing from others and hope I can pick up some great ideas.

Hi and welcome to 3FC.

Congrats on your success and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

Welcome! I am also new as of today. I had a similar experience, in which one event triggered me to completely change my lifestyle. It sounds like you've made a lot of the same changes, well done! Don't you feel great?

Keep up the good work!

Hello and welcome to 3FC. Congratulations on your accomplishments and success. Good luck to you in your journey and in reaching all your goals.

Thanks
 

Thanks everyone for the kind words of encouragement. I am looking forward to immersing myself with the discussions and hope to find new tips for weight loss struggles and to encourage everyone's accomplishments.

Hilarious avatar! I remember him! Dang driving cat. Your determination is fantastic, and that schedule looks like mine with a bit less swimming and running. That is NOT crazy, lol. It's dedication.

Enjoy the forums.

Welcome and good luck!

:queen: Dhani :queen:

:wel3fc:
It's great having you with us! Good luck to you! :D

Wow you sound like you're doing great

KEEP IT UP!!

Hello! Way to go on your 36 Lbs so far!! You are doing great!! Keep up the awesome fitness efforts!!

Welcome to 3FC!! I saw the name "Toonces", thought 'driving cat' then clicked and saw your avatar :rofl: but I digress :D CONGRATS on your changes and success so far, you're gonna be a trim meme to your grandbabies :carrot:

Welcome to 3FC, we are glad you are here!