Hi everyone,

I've been lurking here for a few days and thought I'd introduce myself. I started a new fitness/diet program in earnest on Monday - calorie counting and exercise (right now it's Jillian Michaels' Ripped in 30 + walking). I'm 28 years old, live with my awesome husband, and am a very a busy law student. I've been heavy all my adult life but have really been packing on the pounds the last year and a half in law school. (That whole busy thing + plus the sedentary lifestyle, plus the "study reward" chocolate + the "relax at the end of the day" glass of wine, etc = 1 deadly combo). I've tried to lose weight before, but have never really stuck to a plan mostly because at the end of the day I always thought "who am I kidding? I've always been fat and I always will be." But recently I stumbled across 3fatchicks and saw some of the transformation photos. I realized if you guys can do it, so can I! Better now while I'm young and healthy. For the first time, I feel like I'm embarking on a weight loss plan out of excitement and optimism, rather than guilt and shame. It's a good feeling!

The thing is, I know from past experience that without support it just won't happen for me. So that's why I'm here, and that's why I'm posting. Already, this site (and all of you) have been such an inspiration. I look forward to getting to know you more over the coming weeks, months and years!

Welcome!

Roncygal, welcome, glad to have you join us. I suggest you look for a Challenge or Support group to join; small check-in groups make it easier to connect, get involved, and be accountable. We have groups centering around specific diet plans, themes, or age groups, so find one that inspires you and just post to join! Be sure to check out the 20-somethings, Cal Counters and Exercise threads for a start.

Hello and Welcome! this is a great place for support and very valuble information. Ive had to watch my weight all my life. Im tall 5 10 and no petite girl. your smart to go for it while your young. Life only gets better and staying healthy is number one on my list.
take care

Just wanted to say thanks for the warm welcome everyone! It's been a week and I'm still OP, and this site has been a great support.

Welcome! you sound like you have a really good outlook I feel the same about my weight loss journey. With that way of thinking, we're sure to succeed!

Welcome! I feel exactly the same way you do about always giving up because it seems impossible to change something for the better that has either stayed the same or progressively gotten worse over time. Unlike before with all the crash diets and disappointment, I'm excited to do it the right way this time! We can do it!