Take care of our troops!

You've taken a big step; you're unhappy being morbidly obese. No amount of "cute clothes" ... even if they're made for plus-size women... will make you feel good about yourself. When you're nude, you don't like what you see or how you feel. That's bottom line. You're not alone, and you can lose weight, but first, you must visit a doctor to check your thyroid, your cholesterol, your blood pressure, your blood sugar, etc. Discover if you have a medical condition that needs to be monitored before embarking on a weight-loss journey, especially if it includes exercise.

I say this from experience... from the exercise instructor's perspective. When friends sign up for classes together, inevitably one of them has to quit because of a health issue... high blood pressure, heart disease, torn meniscus (knee pain), etc. that suddenly becomes an issue because more strain is placed on the body's systems during exercise, which is usually good. If you embarrass easily, you don't want to run the risk of falling in class or having to call for an ambulance because you suffered a heart attack.

I know what you're thinking... some skinny exercise instructor is trying to keep me out of class. I was fat 23 years ago, and did a decent job keeping it off for 15 of those years, but it's creeping back... and creeping faster. In the past year I've gained 8 pounds, and now I am 40 pounds over the weight recommendation for my height. I'm waiting on results of a thyroid test, because something is wrong.

Start with drinking more water and reducing portion sizes. After you see a doctor, find a group exercise class. Women of all shapes, sizes and experience levels can offer encouragement and motivation. The important thing is to begin, and to participate regularly... 3-5 times a week. Find $30-$40 a month in your budget. Good luck!

I've been ignoring my bookshelf for two years, but if I don't do something by Christmas, the whole structure may collapse! Your tips are logical, and I may need that 5th pile (why the heck do I have two of the same book?).

I wish more parents would create wonderful memories for their children as you're doing for yours! Go broccoli!