Tru's Diary

[trublues]

Hello, everyone.

I’m 45 and overweight. I don’t actually know how much I weigh because we don’t own a scale, but my estimate would be 275 pounds. But maybe I’m being optimistic (or too hard on myself) – who knows!

I do know that I’m 5 foot 4 inches tall and I’d like to be around 150 pounds again, so I know that I have some work to do.

I’ve been on this journey a couple of times before. The first time I was younger and lost the weight quickly by jogging daily. I ended up losing close to 80 pounds. It just melted off. But that was nearly 20 years ago. The second time was 10 years ago and it was a lot harder. I used WW and only lost around 50 pounds, but it was just the right amount for my wedding.

The specific life event that’s prompted me to try again is not that positive: It’s an impending divorce. I should probably admit that in addition to being overweight I’m also a bit of a mess because of this as the recent news that my husband wants to go his own way took me completely by surprise.

I’m highly motivated to lose weight because I need to feel good and be healthy if I’m going to be single again. But there are obstacles. For starters, I lack any real support system. I don’t have any friends or family who I can lean on or talk to about any of this.

I don’t even work outside the home currently, so I’m feeling a bit powerless at the moment too. Although I’m hoping that my decision to take charge of my weight is the first of many changes that will positively affect my outlook.

When I used WW before there were wonderful forums full of supportive, friendly people and encouraging online meetings, chats, etc.. Because we recently moved to a really rural community where I don’t know anyone so I was hoping to connect with some people there again. Unfortunately that program isn’t even close to offering that sort of social support now, so here I am!

I started tracking calories 5 days ago and began WW point tracking today. I’m nervous, but optimistic. I’ve done this before and I know I can do it again. Although this time it would be nice if I kept the weight off for good!

 

[trublues]

Week 1 Goals

• Purchase a scale
• Track all caloric and WW point intakes
• Exercise for 30 minutes at least two times
• Get more sleep

 

[Cate]

Hi trublues, & welcome to the forum. I'm sorry that your marriage has broken down, but I am also glad that this has motivated you to make the decision to become healthier. Do it for your sake & for your future health. I don't think anything is much more important.
We can offer support in your diary, but just journalling can help. Know that many more will read, but not comment, but lots of people will follow your progress.
Losing weight is harder as you get older & weight seems to go on much easier than it goes off. It can be done though & I'm sure you can do it. I find it easier to be positive if I do something physical, preferably outside each day, even if it's just a 10-minute walk.
All the best, Cate.

 

[trublues]

Hi trublues, & welcome to the forum. I'm sorry that your marriage has broken down, but I am also glad that this has motivated you to make the decision to become healthier. Do it for your sake & for your future health. I don't think anything is much more important.
We can offer support in your diary, but just journalling can help. Know that many more will read, but not comment, but lots of people will follow your progress.
Losing weight is harder as you get older & weight seems to go on much easier than it goes off. It can be done though & I'm sure you can do it. I find it easier to be positive if I do something physical, preferably outside each day, even if it's just a 10-minute walk.
All the best, Cate.

Thanks so much for stopping by to say hello, Cate! It is really helpful and motivating for me to connect with others on this same journey. Thanks for the encouragement!

 

[Cate]

You're welcome. There are some absolutely lovely people in here. We're all at different stages in life & in our weight-loss journeys, but we have much more in common than we have differences.

 

[Llama]

Hey Trublues and welcome to the diaries! A surprise separation sounds really rough but taking excellent care of yourself (through things like good food and regular exercise) can only be helpful while you´re getting back on your feet.
I don´t have much to add to Cate´s wise words so I´ll leave you with an excerpt from Max Ehrmann´s Desiderata:

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.