[JazzyJ]

Hello everyone!! I'm new to the group and first and foremost want to say THANK YOU to the 3 ladies that started this forum. I have been searching for some type of support system and it looks like I've found exactly what I'm looking for!

A little about me: I am 28 years young, single, with no children (unless my dog Bubbles counts lol) living in the south eastern Virginia area. I've been a big girl since I can remember. Up until very recently (like Monday) I lived a very sedentary lifestyle. It wasn't until I saw a picture of myself from my college days that I realized just how much weight I've gained over the years. I'm tired of having to search for clothes that are cute in larger sizes. I'm tired of being tired and out of breath doing the simplest tasks. So I've decided to do something about it.

I am 5'11" weighing 330lbs (I am shaking my head as I type this ) and wearing a size 24W. The funny thing about me is since I'm 5'11" and my weight is spread out most people don't think I weigh as much as I do or wear the size that I wear... but I sure know it. My goal is to get down to AND maintain a size 12. I'm not really sure about a goal weight, but when I get to a 12 the weight will not matter to me. lol

Ok I've done enough rambling... I look forward to interacting with you all.

[cathydoe]

Welcome! Keep coming back...I have found this place to be quite inspiring!

[jigglefree]

Welcome Jazzy J Looking forward to getting to know you as we make it to our goals. I'm with you about when I get to my goal size the weight won't matter.

There is lots of encouragement for the hard days, support for the tough times, pressure when you need it and information when you want it. Come often and join in on the discussions and have fun.

[magnetism21]

jazzy, good luck!! and you will definitely find the support you need here. this site is amazing.

[MiSSxB]

welcome!

[Deena52]

Hi Jazzy and welcome.

Yes, your dog Bubbles absolutely does count as a child. My little kitty is my daughter...as I impatiently wait to get a grandchild one of these days (drumming fingers on my desk).
Dogs and cats make fabulous children.

I also agree that aiming for a size rather than a number sounds like a very healthy perspective. You can go quite nuts obsessing about a number and variations can send you into negative spiral mode. I like the idea of just aiming for a size.

I've found this board to be extremely motivating and helpful. Hope you do too.

deena

[leeway]

Hi Jazzy!
First of all, Bubbles does count!- how smart of you to set a realistic goal that's right for you - the support you need is here - we'll all be here to cheer you on.

Glad to have you join us! There are lots & lots of different groups and forums - I'm sure you'll find some that will keep you motivated and inspired. Try the 20 somethings and the weight loss support forums, they're active and very helpful - also the Success stories are a definite must for motivation.

There are bunches of people here with more to lose and some with less - the bottom line is that we all have to do it a day at a time. The good thing is that we'll have lots of company along the way.

I've only been here since last fall, having NEVER been part of an online forum. What has been so eye-opening is how much it has helped me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or defeated, I just log on and read some of the success stories, complete with their before & after photos - or read about others still dealing day to day with their challenges - and before I know it, the time has flown by and so have all the thoughts of going off track or giving up. It has made all the difference in my success so far.

So welcome - you've found the right place - join in by inspiring us and being inspired!

All the best - good luck with your goals,
Lee