I'm so excited! For the first time in 3.5 years I am under 180 pounds. A little over a year ago I lost about 15 pounds but gained it all back and then some. I wasn't eating very much and when I started eating again, well you know the story.

I used to be totally against exercise. (I have this thing about sweat. It just totally grosses me out.) When I hit 200 in February it was the last straw. My size 18's were also getting a little tight. I also had a full second chin. I was always tired. I am getting married June 10th and I didn't want to have to look at my wedding photos and just be disgusted with myself instead of remembering how wonderful it was to get married. I decided sweat or no something had to change.

I joined the gym. This was a huge step for me. I was sure that people would be looking at me and just know that I had no idea what I was doing. Paranoid huh? I have found that I actually like working out now! It's an awsome stress reliever for me. I don't do running, but I love the eliptical. I usually do about 45-60 minutes. I still hate sweat, but that's what showers are for.

Well, 21 pounds lighter and I'm starting to notice big results. I tried on a pair of jeans I bought a while back that were way too small. (I didn't double check the size on the tag.) Now they are even a little bit loose in the waist. I am almost down to one chin. My blood pressure has gone down. One of the best things is how much more energy I have. I haven't felt sexy in years, but I'm getting close. It's a good thing I bought a wedding dress with a lace-up back! It's adjustable.

I also don't feel that I am on a diet. I still eat all my favorite foods, but I've learned moderation. I've learned that I don't need to eat a whole can of pringles. And I've learned that they put the information for a portion size on there for a reason. For the first time ever I am confident that I can see this through.

It's only 21 pounds, but it's a world of difference.

(Sorry to ramble on so much, I just can't believe how strongly I feel just for breaking 180. )

Good for you! That's wonderful and 21 lbs is a HUGE deal. You've lost over 10% of your body weight. That is great. We have very similar starting and goal weights. We should buddy up and compare notes.

Keep up the good work!

That is terrific, a big congratulations.

That sounds great Libby! It's hard to talk to people about trying to lose weight. Either they've never been overweight so don't understand or i feel like they think I'm obsessed with losing weight. (And maybe in a way they would be right.)

How tall are you? I am 5'2" and very curvy. Even when I was 115 pounds way back when I STILL had a big butt and big chest. At least it kind balances out that way!

Congrats! I am still working to lose my first full 10. Thanks for sharing your happiness. It truly is inspiring.

The first 10 were really hard for me. I actually gained 2 after I started going to the gym. The first 2-3 weeks I was ravenous after working out. I guess that's pretty normal. If you're not used to exercising, your body tries to get you to replace the calories you just burned off. And of course, I went for the chips and junkfood instead of healthy alternatives. Once I got past that, it was not nearly as hard. You'll get to that first 10 before you know it!

Way to go!!!! Congrats on your 21 pound loss!!! That is fabulous! You should be proud!

Losing 21 lbs is a big deal.I am looking forward to the day I can say I weigh 180. Congrats to ya & keep up the good work.We're all here.

Wow, 21 lbs is great!!!
Congratulations!
Wedding is only a couple of weeks away, bet you are too excited!

Congratulations on the 21 lb. weight loss. You are doing great and will make a beautiful bride. Keep up the good work.

Congratulations on your loss! I'm also working on my first 10 and newly inspired by your success and excitement!

You should be proud! You are gonig to be one sexy mamma on your wedding day!

I am 5'. I have struggled with weight since my early 20's really. I had some weight issues as a teen, but not that bad. I just now for the first time in my life have a clear understanding of what a difference good nutrition and exercise can do in your life.

When I was 19 I weighed about 110 lbs, but I was so unhealthy. I worked out, but did all the wrong stuff and too much or too little. I was all messed up. A good support system has brought me a long way also. This community of wonderful women is part of that support system.

Best of luck on obtaining your goals and congrats about the wedding. I wish yoiu and your honey a long and happy life. My hubby and I will be married 9 years in January of 07. God Bless.