Just starting my journey

Good afternoon everyone! I thought I would stop in real quick to introduce myself to everyone. I plan on going through the forums tonight for recipes, so you may see me commenting quite a bit! I am 31, married, and have 2 wonderful little boys, ages 6 and 4. I am from Maine, but have settled down in Virginia. Back in 2005 I had gastric bypass- pre-surgery weight was 193lbs. After surgery I finally leveled out at 150lbs. Not bad, seeing as I am 5'5. However, 2 children, 1 divorce, and a new marriage later, I am up to 180lbs. I guess stress will do that to you! So here I am, hoping to get back down to 150lbs. I know it will be hard to start back on a healthy lifestyle in the midst of the holiday season, but I am going to give it my all!!

I am a huge coffee drinker, so that is not something I am going to give up. I drink it with no creamer, just splenda or sweet and low for sweetening. I have cut out sodas and most sugary drinks all together, though I definitely do not drink enough water (I am working on that though). I have an elliptical machine at home, finally, so I plan on utilizing that 3-4 times a week for 30min-1 hour/session, time permitting.

Feel free to drop me a line, add me as a friend, or just reply to say hi! I encourage all tips, words of advice, etc. I am ready to get back in shape and feel good about my body once again.

~Ann Marie~