PROLOGUE discussion: Let's tell a little about ourselves like did

[Guest guest]

My name is and I am 42, have three kids (15, 13 and 11) and I've been

happily married for 19 years. I have struggled with my weight since I hit

puberty although I am very active. I went from wearing slims to trying to find

" curvy " jeans when I hit puberty. I love to eat - truly it is something I enjoy

- not something I do to sustain myself. BUT, I'm also an emotional eater and

when I am stressed food is what I turn to because it truly is what I enjoy.

My husband is a cancer survivor since 2004. Needless to say, our lives were

totally consumed with his treatment and care (nearly 2 years) that " normal "

complaints were such a blessing. I have just begun refocusing on " me " over the

last six months. I've made those doctor's appointments I put off (annual

physical, mammeogram, dentist, eye etc.) I've lost 30 lbs since October, but I

still want to lose another 30 or 40 lbs but motivation is becoming difficult.

In addition to being a wife, mom, daughter (that in-between 40-year old stage),

I also own my own photography business. My business is a success, but it also

means sacrifices and for me I'm just trying to balance it all. When I listen to

speak about looking within and needing downtime, I'm like ok, but when? I

love to read and this is what I've turned to lately for enjoyment again - except

I get even less sleep when I read. I can't say I love to exercise, but I know

when I do, I feel so much better, but I have a list of excuses for not making it

a habit.

I suppose that is enough " about me " for an introduction...