filigree000

I'm a quitter of 2+ years now (I smoked for 20 years, total)! Between that and having an anxiety disorder since my teens I was always usually slim, or would be able get there fairly easily, but obviously not in a healthy or comfortable manner.

There was actually a time in my early 20s (I had quit smoking for five years) when I became vegetarian, cut out all sugar, and exercised a lot...but I didn't eat enough of the right things most of the time, and often had low blood sugar issues, as well as anemia. Not so healthy, after all, either.

This time, at 42 and with some health concerns, I've decided it's time to get healthy and in shape for real, with a lifelong commitment behind it. I no longer believe in trying starvation, complete restriction against certain 'bad' food items, or using a 'crutch' to keep from eating.

I want to learn to eat healthier and to make exercise a regular activity in my life. I don't mind if it's not an immediate change. Personally, I think it's better to feel good than to worry too much about how one looks. Easier said than done sometimes, but it's ultimately the answer I keep coming back to.

Other random, and hopefully interesting, things about me:

I live in California
I love cats (and all animals) and have one 17-year-old kitty who 'rescued' me on the streets of Las Vegas
I learned to knit 2 years ago
I am learning to sew (making my own costume for Halloween, yikes!)
I have been into the gothic/alternative/industrial music scene since the 1980's and still love to go dancing at clubs
I live with my partner of 3 1/2 years and help raise his two teen boys
I'm looking for work in the legal field (trying to make a career change!)