Well, after almost six months, I've gone and done the thing I swore that I wouldn't do; I joined a weight-loss site.
I didn't think I'd get any use out of them. I'm a somewhat private and often stand-offish person, and I'm definitely a know-it-all. I figured that, given enough drive and determination, I could do this entire thing by myself, community and support be darned. I'm the woman who, upon being talked into participating in a support group, spends fifty-seven minutes staring awkwardly at the floor, and three minutes making accidentally insensitive remarks. Inquiries as to how I'm doing tend to be met with an awkward and sometimes untrue, "uh, I'm fine."
And, really, throughout this entire thing, I have been fine. My ultimate goal was to lose somewhere in the vicinity of a hundred and fifty to two-hundred pounds. I never determined a precise amount, as I avoided the scale for the first six weeks. My best estimate thus far is that, over six months, I've lost nearly sixty pounds. I've lost two-to-three pants sizes, started exercising, and blogged about it with varying degrees of regularity and success.
I'm in this for the long haul--counting calories, adjusting my eating habits, and developing exercise habits that I plan to maintain indefinitely. My initial teacher--aside from the trainer that I am only now working with--has been the University of Google. Over the past few months, my searches for stories and information have led me to this place. And now, having already made extensive progress, I feel comfortable enough to step in. I still feel skittish, as though I might run away at any moment.
I might not fit in. I'm not a very good chick; I am, however, still a chick, and am most assuredly on a diet. So. . .to everyone, I say hello.
And now begins the epic battle of not running away. . .
Hi Gabe, I'm new to the site as of last month and wanted to welcome you. I know how hard it can be to jump in at first. I did a lot of lurking before I joined, too! I'm sure you will find lots of information and kindred spirits on this site....I hope you keep coming back and find some places that feel like home.
Welcome I hope you don't run, but instead stay and celebrate your success with us ! Your loss already is wonderful! Good luck and I hope to see you around the forum
Gabe remember one thing, just engrave it in your brain that you are a winner and will set example for others to follow. So, for sake of others and for you, YOU Are Winning this battle.
I am 59 years old like a grandmom to you. So, I am taking liberty to tell you in this words. I am sorry, but do not mean to offend you.
Good luck girl, keep the chin up.
Welcome Gabe! I lurked on this site for two years before working up the courage to post anything. I held off for several reasons—unsure of the etiquette, afraid I would inadvertently hurt someone’s feelings, didn’t think I had anything to add. I finally started posting because I wanted to be part of the community. The anonymity, too, has helped me feel freer to say what is on my mind. On sarcasm: it is a wonderful medium which unfortunately does not translate in the written word. I’ve often wished for a sarcasm font… Keep fighting the battle!!
Another Newbie, in medias res
