Getting Into Shape

I know many of you have fought this battle. It is a battle that I now face. I have spent the past few years proclaiming "I AM in shape, round is a shape!" Unfortunately, I find myself weighing in the mid-220's when the chart in my Dr.'s office says I should be more like 170. Yes, that is more than 50 lbs behind me (quite literally!).

I recently heard someone say that I can't expect to get in shape with a quick 2 week starvation diet. I spent years getting into this condition and it is going to take an equal commitment of time to get out of it!

Now, my challenge is this: Create and live by new eating habits...forever with no exceptions! AND start working out to help my body get itself into a healthy condition again. I'm writing this because I want to succeed and I need to hear from some of you who have faced this battle and experienced victory.

Please, let me hear your advice. What worked for you? The photo of a trim and buff Paul Tompkins on my bathroom mirror just isn't doing the trick anymore. Thanks!!!