[StellaJ]

Hey, there. I'm StellaJ and I am new to 3FC. I'm not new to losing weight. I had a lot of success in 2007 on Weight Watchers, losing 76 pounds in less than a year. Unfortunately, I gained 64 pounds back by self-medicating my depression (over fertility issues) with food.

I realize the speed at which I lost weight before was too fast for my body. I am ready to start over and find a plan that works for me. I want to steadily lose weight until I get to my goal. If that means working at those 60 pounds for more than a year, that's fine with me. I just want to be healthier and be able to maintain my goal weight.

About me: I am 31 year old middle school teacher. I am married (4 years coming up) with three cats and no children (yet). My husband is also heavy and would like to lose 70 pounds. We are in it together!

I enjoy reading and watching reality TV. I speak Spanish (studied for eight years, taught it for three years, and live in a bilingual household) and am set to take an Italian class in the fall semester coming up.

[Sophia Elise]

Welcome to 3FC StellJ.

Are you following any weight loss programs at present?

[StellaJ]

I'm doing a Weight Watchers type. My own mix, really. Do you have any suggestions?

[Alana in Canada]

Welcome Stella!

I did WW on my own prior to this--about 20 years ago!

This time around, I'm following a portion based plan (set out by Bob Greene in his Best Life Diet book) of 1600 calories a day. It's been a little more than a month and it's working really well for me. --I eat mostly "whole" foods. I cook for the family and I haven't really had to change much. I had dreadful eating habits--and when I ate I consumed way too many simple carbohydrates and hardly any fruits and veggies.

This is a fantastic place for support and for information. One of the best threads ever is about inspiring books to read: that's been very helpful--as well as the advice to treat losing weight as if it is your new hobby!

Sorry, didn't mean to write a book!

[Elladorine]

Hello and welcome, I'm new here too.

[jelder227]

I think it's great that you and you're husband are doing this together! Makes it so much easier.