I was a borderline chubby child. Growing up, my family was concerned with my weight because I had an amazing sweet tooth, loved empty caloric foods and happened to be the same size as my much older sister. Fortunately, my activity level boosted my metabolism and I didn't have many problems with my weight through early adulthood.

Even though, I have converted my taste buds to love healthy, fresh, local and preferably organic foods, the weight has kept creeping onto my body. I am sure stress, inconsistent exercise and the belief that it's okay to be uncomfortable in my clothes, contributed to my biggest weight gain. Over the past decade, I have packed on a few, few extra pounds. I learned this truth as I looked at myself in a current photograph.

Most people will tell me that I don't need to lose weight, as I must hide those extra pounds well. Plus, when you work in pajamas (scrubs), it's so easy to hide behind this type of drapery. :) I have learned to purchase figure flattering clothes and tend not to wear anything that makes me look pudgy. And so...I am that "skinny girl" that wants to lose 10-15 pounds. I believe that even though there may be a vast difference in weight loss goals, the mentality of achieving physical and emotional health is the same. Here goes!