I'm back- so introductions are in order. :)

[Stacilynn]

Hi folks. I'm Staci and this is my second go.
I lasted about 4 months 2 years ago- a three week vacation was the death of me. In the last two years i put on the 30lbs I lost, +10-15.
I needed a life altering change.
Being a nurse I watch people struggle with obesity and diabetes everday.
Sept 1st I made a conscious decision to become a good role model for my patients. I started the fall sememster in school as I continue my nursing carrier, I cut out junk food, started excersizing,
and before I knew it-
I was doing Atkins without consciously thinking about it.
I have been on strict Induction for a month now- and feel great.
My energy level is up, my grades are good. I cut out my habitial nightly drink or two or four. My family claims I'm a better person to be around.

So this is a little about me.
You all support me with your stories.
Your pictures inspire me.
I will be a new person by my 30th birthday. I can't wait.

[Stefanie]

Re: I'm back- so introductions are in order.

Hi, Stacilynn!

I've definitely been there. I had some success on this woe a few years ago (made it about halfway to goal), and then I totally blew it! I have been back on track for almost 5 weeks now, and I'm so glad I've managed to stick with it through school problems, family problems, relationship problems, and even a car accident. It's still hard to believe that I didn't turn to food for solace. Several times since the half-way-to-goal weight loss, I have tried to restart this diet. Sometimes I'd last a day. Sometimes a week. Sometimes a few weeks. I have thought long and hard about what made me stick with it for 6 months before, but couldn't stay on track so many times after that. I have come to the conclusion that I just wasn't ready, or I just wasn't unhappy enough with myself, my health, and my life to make a change like this. Now, I really truly feel like I am ready. It looks like you are too! That's great that you want to be a positve role model for your patients! I am going into teaching, and I would like to be a positive role model for my students, and also the children that I hope to have someday. Considering with how large and unhealthy I was becoming, there was a chance that I wouldn't live to be a teacher or have kids. Some pretty scary stuff can happen when one eats as poorly as I did and did hardly any exercise. Anyway, I've written you a novel here, when all I was going to do was pop in and say, GOOD LUCK, NICE TO MEET YOU, and CONGRATS ON YOUR SUCCESS THUS FAR!!!!