HI! Lost 100 Pounds and Need Motivation to Lose More!!!

Hello! I've been on this weight loss journey my entire life. I've lost and gained 100's of pounds over the last 20 + years. I've been on every diet plan and program. I really have not had a problem losing weight, when I set my mind to it. The problem I have is with maintenance and “falling off the wagon.” You see I start to get comfortable and BAM! I’m in hog heaven with a Twinkie or too (ok….and beer, pizza, snickers, chocolate, cake, cookies etc.)!

In April 2011, I topped the scale at 360 pounds. The heaviest in my life! I was bound and determined to change my life. I did not want to end up like my father, a severe diabetic, and a double amputee. I felt like crap, had no energy, and was extremely depressed. I wore a tight 32/34 and could only shop at the “chunky fine” stores/catalogs. You know, Catherine’s, Lane Bryant, Roman’s etc. My doctor told me I was borderline diabetic and he referred me to have bariatric surgery. After the orientation, I decided that this was not an operation for me. I could not fathom having my intestines rearranged and I fear surgery due to a prior allergic reaction to anesthesia.

Long story short, I had a “Come to Jesus” conversation with myself and I went for it …all by myself with no aids or help (besides a pen and paper). I started my last and final weight loss journey on May 2, 2011. This time I did not join a program, I did not buy a diet plan or equipment; I simply used my brain. My method is accountability; “I bite it, I write it!"

As of July 2012, one (1) year and 2 months later, I dropped 101 pounds. I weigh on a good day 259 pounds. I am down to a size 22. I can actually shop in some department stores. I feel better about myself. I still fight the depression. I am less tired and have more energy. Problem is I, sit and wait and plateau and yo yo. I’ve done this for at least two (2) months. Like I said on a good day I manage the 101 pound loss. However, I am fluctuating up and down a few pounds and not losing. I’m doing the tango of two (2) steps forward and three (3) steps back. I am tired to say the least. And I am really afraid that I am going to fall.

I need your help and advice. A friend told me about MFP after seeing my food journals. I must say it’s been quite the handy tool! No more paper and pen. Easy calorie guides …I no longer carry a book with me. I was also informed about the communities and support. So, I joined. I hope I did not mess up my karma or jinx myself by joining a program LOL!

My goal is to weigh 150 pounds by my 40th birthday, August 30, 2014. So, yes, if I do the math correctly that is 109 pounds in two (2) more years. I know I can do this. No, I will do this. But, …no buts. I have to admit I can’t do it alone. I need help, support, and advice.

I have a supportive family and husband. I need more support from others that are out there on this journey too. I appreciate any help you can offer me and am willing to provide you with what support or advice I have.

I must continue my battle. Thank you for the opportunity to say “hi.”