I'm glad you decided to stick around, Schumeany :)

I decided to make better decisions because I loved myself and having that "aha" moment was it for me. I guess I got to the point where I finally realized that no one is going to take care of ME unless I do it myself. I started in late May and early June taking small steps and educating myself along the way. I found another site to blog on before finding 3FC. I am still learning and still making adjustments. I learn something new every day it seems or I read something that gives me a fresh perspective.

This is not about a destination. This will be the rest of my life. There isn't a tunnel I am looking to get out of. This is bright, beautiful life in a way I haven't known before.

Thanks Junebug! :)

Schumeany, why did you (almost) ditch us? I am interested!

Yes, I absolutely positively knew I would do it this time. Several things were different.
~DH committed to doing whatever plan I chose with me
~I finally admitted to myself that I was not doing things with my family because of my weight - that my quality of life was suffering (I was in denial for YEARS)
~I found all of you at 3FC and you helped me understand the difference between dieting and lifestyle changes - that I had to do something that I could do forever.
~3FC also inspired me to begin an exercise program immediately - something that solidified the "click" in my brain.
~ The support here also gave me the strength to put myself higher on my priority list. It was hard to disappoint others around me, to give up some things that were worthwhile, but you all helped me realize that - in order to be successful, I HAD to make this lifestyle change a priority.

A combination of things, including how insane my life is right now as "grant season" has begun for the non-profit that I run. Anyway, I thought I was in a place where it was time to move one...apparently not. I seem to be a bit more of a 3FC addict than I realized. What was I thinking? I'd miss you guys! :)

We'd miss you too! :hug:

Schumeany, I saw your goodbye post but didn't get a chance to respond before I saw you posting again. I'm also glad that you are sticking around! :)

I'm not at goal yet... but I'd have to say getting through my own health crisis and being fortunate enough to have a full remission gave me a second lease on life. (or leases, considering I had a couple relapses since I began) I figured if I could get through 'all that crap' I could do anything.

I knew I would lose the weight, I'd done it several times before. But I am terrified of maintenance because I've NEVER been successful at maintaining the loss for more than a few months.

Val, I LOVE your signature!

I knew I could lose weight -- I'd done it many times before. I still don't know if I'll keep it off forever, although it's one year and counting!! I've kept it off for this long before, only to regress. I'm staying vigilent this time, I like the way I am now!!!

I think this is an important thread. It highlights that moment of serious resolve that seems to lead to longterm lifestyle change for many people.

After that "click" or "trigger" or whatever, I was certain I'd get the weight off, or die trying.

I'll always remember. I just thought "things have got to change". And then, "I've got the find the best way for ME to do it". I had a health crisis hanging over my head and honestly, fear of serious illness is a powerful motivator. I wish I could have found a reason in something before that, but that's what it took for me.

After maybe 40 - 50 lbs I knew I was home free. It's a great feeling to be in control of something that seemed to be controlling you for so long.

John

I knew it was "the time" although I didn't really believe it until I got past my previous stopping point of 330. And I've never really doubted that I'll get to my goal of being in the 100s although after the first few months, I figured it may take me some time to get there.