Journey to Living Healthier: Will You Lose Weight With Me?

Today is the 14th day of the New Year. My weight stands at a little over 200 pounds and I can't fit into any of my clothes from last year. Just like the last five years, I am in "slimmer mode," which only ever lasts about 3 or 4 months. I am going to try and stick with it this time for 6 months with a goal to loose at least 30 pounds. I try to be realistic, so that averages to about 5 pounds per month. Here's my question: Is there anyone out there who is willing to lose weight with me?

Losing weight is really hard for me, especially when there is a child involved. When he eats, which is quite often, I have to eat, also - don't I? "No" should be the answer. That's so easy to say and hard to do. But I can do it. I am 40 years old and still considered very attractive. I am about 5'8, light complexion with shoulder length dark hair and brown eyes. I have lucky genetics, and I still have that "Hour Glass Figure." My chest and bum-bum are of a nice size and I still maintain a small waist. Let's get this straight: I am not a complete lazy butt. I do off and on stretching and strengthening exercises.

I just found out that stress contributes to a lot of my weight problems, even though I thought this was the opposite all these years. I also have learned that a lack of sleep can also help throw off your weight gain. I am not sleeping well, eating unhealthy (i.e. no vegetables), but I have started taking women's vitamins. My problem is to remember to take them on a daily basis, considering that I would forget my head if it wasn't attached to my neck.

I have to take baby steps - that is the trick. I have added exercises, 2-15 minute workouts that include stretching and strengthening exercises. I still managed to stay up to 4:00 in the morning and just dragging along through the day -- got to get a handle on that -- huh. Well, for my first meal of the day, which was about 2:20 p.m., is pancakes with syrup (my son's favorite). Then at about 5:10 he's ready to eat again. I make spaghetti with hot dogs (also his favorite) and try to eat a small portion -- so far so good. But then, I decided to bake cup cakes -- let the games begin. I will do at least 30 minutes of exercising -- okay -- I promise.