Cherie7575

Welcome - and thanks for introducing yourself! Good job on taking control of your health - I know it's something a lot of people, myself included for way too long, often take for granted. Ive found it really helps me stay accountable to log/portion everything, whether I have a 'bad' day or not. It works if you work it. ;)…

So uhh, Ive always sorta found those arm veins sexy for some reason... :P

Ohhh haha. Sorry about that. I tried googling it before I guessed baklava but couldn't find anything. I think fish/seafood is popular for Italian Christmas meals as well.

So very sorry to hear about all that happened to you. Thank you for sharing your story, and I hope it helps just a little to talk about it. Love and light to you and your family. Take care of yourself.

Happy Anniversary!

Welcome! Thanks for taking time to introduce yourself. I'm not sure how to enlarge the pic as I'm at work and can't R-click (darned restrictions). Ahh well. I know it might not sound right, but try not to eat too far below your listed calories - sure it makes for quick weight loss, but usually not lasting. Also, you get…

We all have to start somewhere - good job! =) What kind of music do you guys play?

Love that site! =)

Congrats - you look great. And thanks for sharing your story.

Good for you! Everyone has to start somewhere, and you just kept on going. and I agree with the person above me - you're a runner if you 'just do it'. =)

Do you mean Baklava? I don't have a recipe but Im sure there are some great ones out there - try allrecipes.com - maybe foodnetwork.com?

You look great - way to go. And that's sweet what you said about your mom. =)

I haven't quite figured out the dynamics here myself - but I gather some people 'collect' friends to have numbers, and you don't need non-supportive people like that in your life. Try not to take it too personally (easier said than done I know).

Welcome! The holidays are a hard time to start/stick with making changes with all the temptations. Just take it a day at a time, and don't beat yourself up too much for a 'bad' day. Every bit counts.

Happy Birthday! Hope it was great.

Thanks for all the great info everyone! It is very overwhelming, but I am committed to making some lasting changes. Thanks also to the OP for the, well, OP. =)

I was also recently diagnosed with this, in addition to having a history of high blood pressure. I know I am capable of making changes, and the Dr was very encouraging, but I'm still feeling very defeated/disappointed with myself to have let things get to this point. I would also appreciate any helpful info. Thanks so much.

Thanks for posting this - I think we can all use this type of encouragement. =) Take care.

Wonderful! =)

awesome!!!

Way to go - you look great! I don't know what I'll do if I end up with loose skin - hoping losing slowly will help. Really don't want to have to go the plastic surgery route.

Thanks for sharing - you look fantastic!

I had considered some healthy cookies or muffins also, with whole wheat flour, etc. Thanks! =)

You can do it! Celebrate the victories, no matter how small. They have something here called Non Scale Victories (NSV) - so don't get too caught up in the #s on the scale. And don't beat yourself up for having a bad day. Best wishes and Happy Holidays to you.

Very powerful piece - thanks for reposting.

So sorry for all you went through but way to go otherwise - and glad your doggie wanted to help with the photo shoot, haha!

Thats wonderful - good for you!!

Rockstar! ;)

wonderful - you look great!

Way to go!