So, at 26, 5'3 and 190lbs, it's time to throw in the fat towel. Late 2008 I was out of work for about 6 months - that's when it started. Convenience food, some mild beer consumption, and not having to get up at 6:30am took it's toll. Then June 2009 I made the decision to quit smoking *pat on the back* but again - I reached for other things to satisfy my cravings. So from August 2008 - Present, I've gone from 147 to 190.
Generally I'm a pretty happy person, I have an amazing boyfriend (actually the inspiration for quitting smoking) and a comfortable job, but the weight gain has taken it's toll on my self image, and is now spilling over into our sex life = there isn't much of one anymore. It's not that we don't feel it for each other, but I feel shameful of my body.
I feel like this desire for weight loss is for myself - and my relationship, but I cannot stress enough how wonderful and supportive my boyfriend is. He always tells me I'm beautiful and sexy. He is motivated for exercise with me without making me feel like it's his backhanded way of trying to get me to lose weight.
Hopefully I will meet some people who are in the same, or similar boat to myself - and I will learn to love myself again, and hopefully some strategies for successful weight loss.
jenn

good luck! it won't be easy but it will be worth it to feel good!