Hi all- I joined this forum back in April 2013 and didn't actually post anything, however looking back: I was 208 lbs when I joined. I'm currently 186, which makes me feel a lot better. That being said, I was down to 168 at my lowest less than a year ago, and I'm trying to get myself back to that point, and then some. Feeling bloated and having no energy all the time is so draining, especially knowing that there is something I can do about it.

So today marks a new beginning for me, and I really hope that finally posting on this forum will give me the little boost of confidence I need to keep going.

Nice to meet you all, I'm Mandie.

Welcome back

We're almost the same place! I'm coming back too, having gained a bit. I wanna get back to where I was and then some I joined in 2014 and always did better checking in, even if I didn't post much. I think it's just seeing people of like-mindedness. It also just reminds me and keeps me aware of what I'm doing with my body.

Good luck and you're gonna do great! You already know how

Hi, I joined this forum today. I have been toying with the idea, and making half hearted attempts to bring down my weight from 154 pounds to what I used to be seven years ago - 120 pounds. For the last two weeks, i have actually begun taking concrete steps in this direction. Small changes in my lifestyle - no alcohol, lowered my sugar intake, no fried foods. I've changed the plate size from a full plate to a half plate. And I load half of that with salads, veggies, a quarter with proteins, and the remaining quarter with carbs, usually homemade flatbread. I've reduced my calorie intake from 2500 a day to 1500 a day. And I exercise 45 minutes a day - stretch exercises.
In two weeks, I've noticed a few changes - some clothes fit easier, energy levels are higher, I feel happier and healthier. And this is motivating me to go on. These two weeks are the longest I've gone without breaking the healthy routine. Hoping I am able to deal with work and other stress, and not break from this routine.
I'm hoping to achieve my goal of 120 pounds by August 2017.
Not only am I apprehensive of keeping going for so many months, but also about how do I keep the weight off. Will worry about that when I get there. Now, for me, its one day at a time. Each day I make a healthy choice is a victory.

Way to go fat2fit2040! Those sound like awesome changes to make that aren't unreasonable. I think you certainly can keep going. I like the advice someone have earlier: plan to fail and don't fail twice in a row. With Christmas and holidays we are all likely to have a bad day of unhealthy eating. But if we plan for it in advance and make sure that the day after is on track to healthy again, then we can! I'm rooting for you

Welcome back! Im glad to be on this journey with everyone! I'm just starting out, Good to meet you, and you've got this!!!