Before and After Pic - 62 lbs. lost and running races!

@Drob1975 - My weight loss factors have been a combination of creating a reasonable, caloric deficit each day and scheduled exercise throughout the week. When I started my food diary, I still ate some foods that I loved, but within reason for that day. You really have to watch your portions to make sure that you are not eating too much throughout the day. I've always been a poor judge of serving sizes, but using measuring cups and a food scale have been very helpful. If you stick to a routine, then the weight will come off in time. For certain people, it might come off slowly or quickly. Just be patient - weight loss is supposed to be a gradual thing. As you start losing weight, you will have to readjust your calorie goals. I would also suggest to start slowly substituting better quality foods as time goes on, that way you break yourself into more nutritious foods. For snacks, good healthy options could be unsalted, raw nuts or greek yogurt for protein. If you like to eat sandwiches, use whole wheat or whole grain bread and lower sodium meat cuts. There's a lot of good, healthy options, and feel free to ask any of us here on MFP - we're here to help and encourage!

For the running, this is an area where, just like with the weight loss, it takes baby steps. I would suggest starting off with walking 20-30 minutes a day either on a treadmill or out in your neighborhood. Make sure it it a brisk pace, too! As your body gets used to it and you start losing weight, slowly start to incorporate some light jogging intervals. One way you could do this is by jogging 30-60 seconds then walking 30-60 seconds. Repeat several times for about 20-30 minutes. When you're body gets used to that, then up the intensity to maybe 2 minute intervals of walking/jogging. As you body starts to adapt to the cardiovascular exercise, your heart and lungs will become stronger allowing you to walk/jog/run for a more sustained period of time. Make sure you listen to your body, too! Only you know your limitations, so always be careful with any exercise you do, but, most importantly, have fun doing it!

I know it's a lot of info, but I hope it helps and encourages you, my friend! I wish you the best of success in your weight loss! Stay focused and don't put off your goals. If you desire something, then it will fuel your passion to obtain it in any way possible! Feel free to add me if you ever need a friend or any advice!