I hope you don't mind that I add my two cents (or two pence) here...I am kind of new, posted a few times back in 2002
I can relate to everyone here. For me, I was always thin during highschool. I was into gymnastics, dance and track, and I never had to worry about what I ate. This changed for me after graduation. Suddenly, you find yourself working behind a desk all day, no activity and food was used as the social point from birthdays, holidays, promotions or someone has a baby etc. Always cakes, cookies or donuts...nothing healthy either...made suggestions to the boss but nothing has changed. [I can relate to those who experienced diet sabatogers like some co-workers, family like my mother (who loves to cook plenty of food].
To top it off, I decided to go to college in the evenings, and had no time what so ever for any exercise. The weight crept up so fast that I did not see it until I saw a Christmas picture about 2 years ago. I know how I got fat, eating the wrong kinds of foods, and not exercising. I just can't believe I got this fat.
And when I tried to diet, I always found myself not following through due to emotions or stress. I have always been very conscious of my weight in the states, but was able to deal with it . I found myself since I moved here my preception of myself has tripled (and I am not sure why) and right now, I don't feel very good about it.
Since, I haven't started to look for work yet, I decided to give it one more last go. No more excuses now So I joined ediets at end of July, and have lost 9.5 pounds but I do have along way to go...so far, I have been journaling my food, seeking support when I feel like I am going to backslide and exercising 60 minutes a day (there are days I have to force myself). For me its easy to gain 5 pounds, then to lose the 5 pounds...(30 mins of excersing is not going to cut it for me).
The positive thing about living here in England, you have fresher fish, veggies or fruits (or least where I live); very little food commericals on the tele...and no krispy cremes, taco bells or micky dees for miles. Hopefully I can get it off and keep it off. ..I thought I share how I got fat, and my weight loss odyessy.
Carol