I am a Mother of 2 and a Director with The Pampered Chef. I quit smoking 13 years ago and gained about 85 pounds in the 3-4 years after. I kept it on.

My youngest is going off to college this month. My marriage of 24 years (anniversary is same day my daughter leaves) has been rocky for quite a while. I know my husband is not attracted to me, and that hurts, but I can't blame him.

So here I am, turning 45, at a crossroads in life. I choose to enjoy it more by being in better shape. I have no desire to be super thin. I just want to be able to travel in comfort and style. And to not hate what I see in the mirror...

Update:

What success I have had! Traveled to Boston after losing 20 lbs and the flight was so much easier. Just got back from the Carribean after losing 55 lbs and what a difference! I felt ok enough in my swimming suit that I could have fun on the Beach. I led--yes LED my family up the mountain as we hiked in the rain forest! This evening I delivered all the neighbor gifts (we live on the side of the mountain) by foot without getting winded at all! People treat me like a normal person now. 25 pounds to go to a healthy weight, but my life has changed so very much. I am even considering getting back on the ski slopes! This spring, I intend to run a 5k.