I finally hit the number on the scales that was simply unacceptable. I had been giving myself excuses for why I had gained so much weight over the course of the last 16 months but just because I started a new job that is far more stressful than all of my previous positions is no excuse to blow up like a giant balloon! So that's why I'm here - now to who I am - really am - not what I am today...

I'm 48 years old, 5'8" tall and mother of three fabulous boys ranging in age from 18 to 6. For most of my adult life I have weighed between 138 and 144 with short periods of time when I weighed far less (back when stress made me LOSE weight) and times when I weighed far MORE (like now!).

I started a new job in Feb 2010 - since then I have steadily gained weight and a few weeks ago I stepped on the scale and saw a number that began with 17... Unacceptable!
I started the Dukan Diet on May 17th. I have been 100% faithful and have experienced the most amazing revelation in dieting... First, its easy, second, I have a huge amount of energy and absolutely no cravings (very wierd) and third - its working beyond my wildest dreams...
Stepped on the scale this morning and saw 159!!! 11.5 lbs in 12 days!
20 more pounds and I will fit in all my 2009 summerwear! I am not buying a single summer item this year...

Update: Its Sept and I achieved my weight loss goal! I am wearing all my old clothes again and am ready to make other positive changes in my life. I realize now that my old job was not a good fit for me and as a result I was very stressed and affected my health. I've learned a lot from the experience and will take those learnings with me into future challenges. Its time to really live and be happy! And it sure doesn't hurt that I feel good when I look in the mirror now!
;-)