Since Nov 2011 I have been making lifestyle changes after I was unable to go up a flight of stairs without tying to catch my breath.

Diabetes and obesity run in my family. I have watched my mom suffer from arthritis, sleep apnea, have knee surgery, develop diabetes and lymphodema, not to mention her asthma and other breathing problems and high cholesterol. I'm sure there are other things. This led to her becoming disabled and feeling useless. She is far from happy. All this began in her forties. I was 45 and decided I was going to do all I could to avoid following in my mom's footsteps.

I realized from being on and off diets that only a lifestyle change would make a lasting difference. I started exercizing 5 minutes a day and making wiser food choices. Now I exercize 60 minutes a day and eat less refined products, watch my fat intake and drink plenty of water.
I have lost 34 pounds so far. More impressive is the 5 inches off my chest, 4 inches off my waist and hips. This despite the times I went on a binge!!!

I would say that the biggest lessons I have learned so far are: start small and keep going no matter what happens, keep a food journal to become aware of your eating habits - be sure to give yourself credit for the things you do that are healthy and to try to learn from your not so healthy habits. If you do "mess up", wipe the slate clean immediately instead of giving in to disappointment and giving up for the entire day,week,month,year. Look for healthy alternatives for your favorite foods as well as better ways to cook and serve your meals.

I still have a long way to go before I will be at my goal weight, but I am finding out that the journey is far more important than the weight. The lasting changes are what really count.