[Kalilung]

Hi all! My name is Clarissa, I'm 24 years old, married, with a pet snake and a laptop computer. I have been over my healthy weight since I was 6 years old.

A few years ago, after an extremely embarrassing trip to Cedar Point OH where I could not ride any of the roller coasters, I went on the Atkins diet and lost just over 100lbs. While working in an old fashioned candy store. Unfortunately, I just couldn't stick to the diet after feeling so accomplished, and shot back up 40lbs, and then steadily gained weight over the course of 3 years until now.

I wouldn't say I've had an epiphany or anything, but I do feel I am finally in a place where I can start acting like an adult and take responsibility for my own health. My approach this time is not going to take out any particular food group from my diet, but rather manage my food in such a way that I never pass the base metabolic rate for my goal weight. I'm sick of denying myself carbs, or sweet things, or good fats.

I also intend to exercise. If there is one thing that defined why I haven't lost weight until now, it is laziness. In deference to my unfitness, and concern for my heart and joints, this will be a gradual slip into the recommended amount of exercise for a person my age. I like the general attitude and gentle (and sometimes not so gentle) support this forum has offered to everyone willing to take their health into their own hands. I find the success stories here so inspiring, and even more lovely that they stick around and help everyone else out.

Anyway, I'm getting a bit long-winded, so I look forward to commiserating and losing with the rest of you ladies!

[mandalinn82]

Hi Clarissa!

Sometimes, all it takes is a belief that now is the time to take responsibility. And a commitment to make small, lifelong changes that add up over the long run.

I'm so glad you've found us - have you explored yet? We have forums by age range, for those with over 100 lbs to lose or those starting over 300 pounds, by eating plan...so look around. You're sure to find one or many spots that feel just right to settle in.

I'm very glad you've found us and can't wait to get to know you better!

[RoyalAthena]

Welcome, Clarissa!

Congrats for making such an important decision!!! This is the right place to be. You will get the support and information that you need. Look around on the site there is so much info!! Oh, and read some of the success stories...and pics. They are an inspiration!

[Lovely]

You're in the right place for support

Look around & post wherever you're comfortable. You can do this.

Best of success!