"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step."
- Lao Tzu

I'm twenty three, female, and a GAD and depression sufferer, which has, up to now, really hindered my quality of life. While these conditions are not ideal to live with—and it took me about four years to mull over this one—I've decided that it is ultimately up to me to take responsibility for my life. While I know there's still plenty of crappy 'down days' ahead of me, I'm ready to fight tooth and nail to get my real life back, and maybe, just maybe, with time, there will be more good  days than bad. I just have to stay positive.

Another cobblestone in paving my way to a better life is getting a handle on my weight. Years of emotional eating has taken its toll on my body, and on my self-esteem. My unhealthy habits have only fueled the usual depressive symptoms rather than curtailing them. Looking bad in my jeans or not fitting into a shirt I like may be petty to some, but on some days it is enough to keep me from wanting to crawl out of bed.

I'm ready and willing to change. I have had enough, and I cannot stand another minute of this self-imposed illness to stand in the way of me living a healthy, happy life. Getting my physical health in order is going to help reinforce the positive changes happening on the mental and emotional level.

And so, it begins.

Here are my stats as of May 28th 2009

Height: 5"8
Weight: 198 lbs
BMI: 30.1

Measurements:
Waist: 33"
Hips: 44"
Thighs: 26" (largest part, 7" inches from hip-bone)
Arms: 13.1" (over largest part of bicep)

Frame: Large
Body Type: Mesomorph
Body Fat: 33%

Goals:

First Goal Weight: 180 lbs  - June 30th 2009

Second Goal Weight: 160 lbs - July 31st 2009

Third Goal: 150lbs - August 30th 2009

Final Goal Weight: 135lbs - October 30th 2009

Virtual Models:

Before: [185 lbs]                                  After: [135 lbs]