VC, you've already received wise words and good advice, so I really have no more of those to add -- I just wanted to send virtual hugs and encouragement your way!

I'm new here, and I still haven't posted any pics of myself either. But I know a little bit how you might feel—I gained 60 lbs while pregnant, and need to work on losing it. In the mean time, I have this wonderful body that does so much for me. It may not be the skinniest and I may never be slim and elegant, but you know what? It's me. It's what I've got in this lifetime. And we can either beat ourselves up and punish ourselves for this, or live our lives day by day and find joy and beauty in them. At least, that's sort of what I told my husband when I got rid of all of my clothing and ran wild through the internets with our visa card...

But the point is... It's ok. From what it sounds like, you've come a long, long way, and as they say, "It is what it is." Find beauty today! You deserve it.

VC you've gotten great advice already so I wanted to add few more *HUGS TO YOU*! I also really resonate with what Taylor said.

Thank you all so much! I'm very encouraged and feel a lot better about things now that I've sort of explained myself a wee bit.

In the meantime, I'm up to my ears in alligators at the moment (latest challenge - a new business venture with a huge, frustrating learning curve), but will come back early next week and reply properly once I get through my "put in killer hours" weekend.

Thank you again - it really means a lot.

VC...I am sorry that you have been feeling that way. It is unfortunate that we, as women, have been taught to think more about weight than health. You might know that I gained 32lbs from last Sept/Oct. through February. I put off buying clothes and then making do. I finally decided that I wasn't going to make due or be embarrassed by my weight gain. What put it into perspective is that the weight gain came as a result of anti cancer treatments following cancer treatments. You are perfect and beautiful the way you are. AND you sound strong as all get out because you are wrestling freakin' alligators !!!!

That alone should make you feel like a superhero !!!!! Can't wait to see you.

Thanks so much Isabel! Still sneaking around here, when I am supposed to be working - but I've been working since 8 this morning (it's now 7pm). Eating my dinner now, and taking a mini-break. The alligators can wait for five or ten minutes, don't you think?

You're right - it's better to make the current situation better instead of being stuck, refusing to look or feel better because of a weight change.

Big hugs to you VC, and all with the same struggles.

Sometimes I hum "I am not my weight" to myself (with apologies to India Arie).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mop9csVOF6E