3 Fat Chicks on a Diet Weight Loss Community - Just getting started

Hi there. My name is Samantha.

About 18 years ago, I weighed 110 lbs and was incredibly fit (I'm 5'2"). I lived alone, could easily eat a healthy diet, be focused on fitness and health. Then I married and had a child. Two years later I had twins. During that pregnancy I let myself gain weight to take the babies as close to full-term as possible. They came five weeks early, but were born naturally, both at a good weight and healthy in every way. Lots of weight fell off due to breast-feeding, but not all. I kept telling myself I would do something about my weight, but....well, kids, busy life, work. I haven't done much about it.

Now, I'm older, out of shape and 30-40 lbs too heavy. My decision to take action comes not from how I look, but how I feel. My energy level is way down, and I'm just not as physically capable as I could be.

Two weeks ago, I started on the South Beach diet, using it more as guideline than a strict regime. Today, my size 12 clothes are nice and loose instead of tight enough to force me to admit I need to move up a size. My starting weight is based on my last doctor's appt. I may not weigh myself until the next one, but the fit of my clothes give me a good idea of where I am -- and my energy is already better.

I'm determined to keep going - take off the rest of the weight and get back into shape. Three Fat Chicks has already been an inspiration, so I thought I would join in for support and to be supportive.