Back in the Saddle Again

[Ginafer]

Dear All,

I've been lurking on your boards for awhile now and am truly impressed by your success and the support you provide each other! So....I've joined myself.

I'm a grad student, so my life is pretty hectic (although in a totally different way than many other ladies my age who are chasing after toddlers). I'm also a very social person, so it's tough for me to turn down invites out for drinks, dinner, a chocolate muffin etc....and my calendar is pretty full. (I hope to fill it with workout appointments!)

I successfully lost 50 lbs on Atkins about 5 years ago, and maintained the loss until recently, when I noticed my pants weren't fitting so well anymore.

I really think that my excess weight in many ways is a shield that I've built around myself. Makes me feel different than everyone else. Gives me an escape (into food) and a rationalization for being single most of my life.

So, now I'm ready, to get serious. I've hopped on and off Atkins in the past year but struggled with group functions (we students have a lot of potlucks) where there's little but starchy foods....(lots of vegetarians up here). This time will be different, I will have the same resolve I did 5 years ago.

Biggest concern is my drinking. Honestly, alcohol is the most prominent way that my fellow students and I relax and enjoy each other (unhealthy I know). It's not uncommon for me to be tipsy 3 nights a week, and flat out drunk at least one (on top of the three). (not pretty but true).

I look forward to learning from all of you and hearing about your struggles and successes!

Tomorrow, I'm taking a morning yoga class with a friend, should feel really, really good.

[Lil_Texas_Tornado]

Good luck fellow college student! Let me know about the yoga class. I have always wanted to take one, but I'm a scaredy cat..Later!Amanda

[Debi2007]

Welcome! Glad you decided to come out of 'lurking' status. It sounds like you have the determination to reach your goals. Hope your yoga class is great!!!

[AOT]

Hi Ginafer! Great to have you on "board". You are right, people on this board are incredibly supportive and it makes the second time around so much easier. There is a forum for those of us starting up again. Lots of supporters that know what its like to be starting up again. Just a word of caution, try to lay off the drinking as it may seriously hinder your results... I know its hard but not harder than reaching for that piece of delicious, double chocolate cake.... Try it for the two weeks of induction, see how well you do. We all fall, I fell on on New Years Eve... but what matters is that we try, reallly hard to get back on track. Good luck to you!