check out my blog! www.linz11.blogspot.com The name is Linz! :) I'm twenty-two years old, and I'm a full time college student pursuing a degree in clinical social work. I consider myself a very active person. I try my best to keep up with the demands of being a student, daughter, friend, and sister all while going to the gym 5 days a week. I have been overweight my entire life. Actually, obese...tipping the scales at 250 pounds at one point. Because of this, I've struggled tremendously with body image issues. At four years old, I felt misshapen compared to others. This has caused me a debilitating amount of anxiety and thus, hindered me socially. For me, losing weight is beyond a cosmetic reason. My weight has held me back for 22 years, and I won't let it anymore. I can't really say what prompted me to change my lifestyle, I just woke up one morning and pretty much realized I didn't want to feel like crap anymore. Aside from diet and exercise, the hardest part of this is dealing with the emotional baggage that comes along with it. Thus, why I write consistently. You begin to really see, and understand your moods, thoughts and behaviors. This is not a lose weight fast "diet", this is a lifestyle change. Exercise and eating well is just as important as sleeping and keeping good hygiene. Here is to happiness and good health! :) My stats: SW: 232 CW: 178 GW: 180 (March 2010) UPDATE: As of 4/14/10 I've lost 54 pounds! WOO! As of 8/1/10 I'm down 73 pounds and starting to look more defined! I've pretty much given up grains, except for the occasional slice of bread of pasta dish for my cheat meal. Don't miss it, AT ALL!

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