I'm a work-at-home writer and editor, recently downsized after decades in journalism. The first six months of unemployment, I cried and ate. And got married to a wonderful man who loves my thighs just as they are. I finally realized I could be a freelance writer/editor after all; I'd wondered for years about that! But staying at home made me sedentary, and it got to be uncomfortable just to take a walk with my honey. I'm at my highest weight EVER. In 2001, I successfully lost about 60 pounds with a diet based loosely on the Suzanne Sommers / Fit for Life concept -- lots of fruit and salads, biggest meal at noon, light supper, daily swimming. I felt so good after that; but I broke my ankle and while recovering, had to eat whatever anyone would bring me. Then I moved to Florida. I have gained about 10 pounds each year I've lived in Florida (5 years and counting). My children have grown up and moved on; my daughter also struggles with her weight. I REALLY dislike how I looked in my wedding pictures; a great day, but a really blobby bride. All that planning and expense, and I can't even stand to look at myself in the video. Plus, it was a beach wedding and about 110 degrees that day. What was I thinking? My goal now is to lose enough weight so I can be comfortable and active again, travel with my new hubby, not get exhausted, feel alert, and feel comfortable enough with myself that I can start a public speaking career -- yes, stand up on stage in front of other live people, confident that I look "ok." I am addicted to makeover shows on TV. I want my own new self, and I want it now!