I moved to the South about 18 months ago and have gained 35 pounds "net" to date. (I've lost 20 pounds a few times, just to gain it back and more). The local food and my metabolism simply do not agree on my perfect weight, so I've gone to Atkins to avoid all of the great Southern specialities that I believe helped pack on my weight.

I also travel frequently for work and to stay connected with friends and family from home, which means eating and drinking socially and also for business entertainment. Atkins, I decided, allowed me the most likelihood of success because I can always order a good steak and not feel disappointed in my meal (or make my business guest feel awkward).

I have a slow thyroid, for which I have been treated for the last 10 years, which makes weight maintenance a challenge. But, I refuse to give up. I'm a 44 year old mother of a teen and not ready to settle into being a fat old lady with a cat!

I joined FatSecret to use the tracking functionality and also for journaling purposes. Both of these tools are supposed to make a difference. *Fingers crossed*