Hi! I'm PastelApple. I'm a freshman in college who is half-way to gaining the freshman 15, but I'm hoping to change that. I really want to get back to carrying the same weight I carried during my sophomore year of high school, the 180 lb. range. During that year, I didn't eat healthily, but I ran about 3-7 miles a day because I was in cross-country. I've had bad eating habits since I was a child.

I love exercise, but I also love food. The tough part of this process will be learning to change my eating habits that I've had for such a long time. As much as I read about what I should or should not eat, I feel like this is going to be a a huge learning process.

I think, more than anything, I want to lose weight to help me find my confidence. I have so many reasons to be grateful for being the person I am, but my weight has always seemed to trump that. I've never been in a relationship, or even had the confidence to fully pursue one. I'm actually decently attractive, just not confident. I really, really want to find a happy place for myself, so that I can allow other people into my life.

I'm excited.

It sounds like you're ready to make some changes, you came to the right place!
I've made so many friends and gotten so much good advice and support here.
I'm sure you'll find the same.

Welcome PastelApple! Keep coming back to read and post. This is a great place!

Hi PastelApple!
Sounds like you're ready to get started - I'm sure you'll achieve your desire of a healthier and happier you - the support you need is here.

Glad to have you join us! There are lots & lots of different groups and forums - I'm sure you'll find some that will keep you motivated, inspired and entertained! There's also info and first hand advice on different eating plans and exercise to help choose the right ones for you and get through the ups and downs.

There are bunches of people here with more to lose and some with less - the bottom line is that we all have to do it a day at a time. The good thing is that we'll have lots of company along the way.

I've only been here a few months myself, having NEVER been part of an online forum. What has been so eye-opening is how much it has helped me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or defeated, I just log on and read some of the success stories, complete with their before & after photos - or read about others still dealing day to day with their challenges - and before I know it, the time has flown by and so have all the thoughts of cheating or giving up.

So welcome - you 've found the right place - join in by inspiring us and being inspired!

All the best - good luck with your goals,
Lee

Welcome to 3FC and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle