Hi! My name is Penney. I have peeked in on this site off and on for a long time. But - today I finallly took the first step in admitting that I cannot do this on my own. I went to the doctor and this is the first time I have ever gotten results back in less than 8 hours. I never knew a person could fail so many tests, so miserably, all at once. Needless to say, I was told that "I have options and I need to make a decision." So - now I am quitting smoking and trying to lose weight at the same time.

So, I have had my pity party (no sweets, whole grain wheat and a "veggie" burger, hold the fries thank you very much") and then I came straight here. There seems to be so much support here and I need to be someplace where someone is going to tell me to stop researching the issue and try applying the knowledge. That is my biggest issue - I will read about it, gather the information and then the flame seems to die out.

Help..........

Aw, Penney. Sorry about your tests, but I commend you on taking the steps to change! I hear you on the flame dying out. I wish you luck with finding your personal inspiration to keep it lit this time -- it CAN be done. Welcome!

Welcome Penny. You can do this. I look forward to seeing you around.

Hi, Penney!

Welcome! There ARE a lot of us here, and we "get" where you are coming from! Believe me, it really helps when you know that people understand! The before and after pix really inspire me, and I always get ideas from reading other's posts.

Take the time to read as many posts as you can. There are a lot of them, so take it a bit at a time. It sure helps to find out that so many people are succeeding at this weight loss thing and that there are those at all different stages of it, too!

For me the most important thing that I did was admit that I needed to change. You have already voiced that, too, so you are ready to come up with a plan. There are plenty of posts here that talk about different plans and ideas. Find one that sounds good to you. Some people have chosen a regular established program like Weight Watchers. Others are creating their own plan based on things that they have read/seen etc. Whatever plan you choose know that weight loss IS possible and that you have TONS of support here!

Best of luck, Penney, as you start on YOUR weight loss journey!

Cheryl

Hi there. I am sorry you had tests come back bad. Quiting smoking and starting a new eating plan are a lot at once, but it is better to do it at once!!! I quit smoking a year ago on the 19th. I smoked a pack - pack and a half a day for 14 years. For me it was easiest (as if it is easy) to go cold turkey! And I tried everything! You can do it and you will feel so much better!! I just started the weight loss journey 1 month ago, but feel confident this is a forever change also. I wish I would have tackled it when I quit smoking! Good luck! Breath deep! Jelly

Welcome Penny!

Penney! Good for you for taking your life back. Making that commitment is the first step. You CAN do this!

Welcome Penny ~ glad you have joined us.

Hi, Penny. I know what you mean. My hubby says I have read every diet book availible. You might want to try the intuitive eating thread #2

Welcome to the forum Penney! You have a tough road in front of you trying to lose weight and quit smoking at the same time, but it is doable!!! I look forward to seeing more posts from you.

Melissa

Thank you all so much! I was honestly surprised to see how many replies that I received. It was like WOW! Talk about an instant safety net! I really am not alone in the universe. Hopefully - I will get to the point were I can do this for other people.

You will Penny. It's a hard journey but well worth the trip.