Greetings,

Well after about 2 weeks of reading the forums, I thought maybe it was time to introduce myself.

My name is Renee, I am 25 and a SaHM of 2, ages 3 and 4. Before kids I was 155-ish lbs, which at 5'5", isn't too bad. I have between a medium and large frame I would say, definately not a dainty little thing. After my son I lost almost all of the weight, but my daughter was a different story. The weight piled on everywhere and I am currently 214lbs. Right now I am bordering on a size 16 (18 for some brands) and I refuse to buy bigger.

My husband and I moved to wisconsin earlier this year to be with his family, and I have packed on almost 30lbs since we got here. His family is great but I get so embarrased because they are all really small people. His sister has become my best friend and she tries to help motivate me, but after 5 kids, she still 115lbs.. I get so envious of how well she lost all of her pregnancy weight.

I find it so hard to stay at home with my kids and keep myself out of the fridge and cupboards at the same time. I have no energy to play with my kids the way I should, nor do I have the energy to exercise. I have constant knee pain, which I know is probably from the weight. I do have a minor case of depression, not enough to have to take meds tho and I know it all has to do with my weight. I am constantly putting myself down.

Wow, life story here....

I am here to make a change in my life. I hate who I have let myself become. Hopefully here I can make a few friends, share successes and give my support to others in need.

Hey Renee, and

We don't mind the life stories.

I work from home, so I understand the "the cupboards are always there" thing, AND I understand knee pain and mild depression due to weight. I had all of those problems when I started.

First, on the constant availability of food - have you tried planning your meals just like you would if you were working outside the home? I plan all my meals/snacks for the day ahead of time. That is the only food I eat, and since it is all planned, there is none of that "standing in front of the cupboard, deciding what to eat" time that puts all kinds of not-so-good food choices right at your fingertips. Having a solid plan from the start of the day really helps me make good choices all day long.

If you have constant knee pain, it is tempting to write it off as "all due to the weight". While weight can initially cause problems with your knees, the problems don't always go away as you lose weight. So if you haven't seen someone yet to have them evaluated, please do! It is so much easier to exercise if your knees aren't hurting all the time.

I'm glad you're here - look around and keep posting. I can't wait to get to know you better!

Hi Renee!!!
Welcome to 3fc!!

I read your story and relate absolutely! I´m also 25, actually I´m studying for my "examen de grado" ( BAR exam here in Chile, so I study all day long at home... ) and the temtations are everywhere. I´ve also suffered from the weight depression, so I really understand what you´re talking about.

But... the important thing is that you´re here and ready to start your weight loss journey ! Yey!

So, tell us about your plan (WW, calorie counting, etc).
Ahh and mandalinn´s tip about the planning is great, to know what you´ll eat helps with the temptations...

Hope to hear from you!! and GOOD LUCK!