Summer 2003, I was lying on a couch with my feet up - and I was short of breath. I realised my belly fat was pushing my internal organs up against my diaphram.

In September of that year, at 278 lbs and after a few weeks of research I started on Atkins. Within a few months, I was sliding past goal weight after goal weight. My lowest, which was reached about a year after I started controlling my carbs, was 209 lbs. Since then, I have fluctuated a lot with a high of 248 lbs in January 2007. As of November 12, 2010 - I'm 230 lbs.

I know the carb controlled way of eating very well, and can offer a great deal of support. However, age and physiology have changed my body to the point that it doesn't burn like it used to, and a move in 'food-as-fuel' is needed. So, as of a week ago I'm using Tom Venuto's 'Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle' lifestyle.

With our Wii, treadmill, Bowflex, a personal trainer and a 5k run every Monday evening - I am working toward the following goals as of November 12, 2010:

Goal Weight: 210 lbs (Current: 230 lbs)
Goal Body Fat %: 13.5% (Current: 23.5%)
Goal Lean Body Mass: 181 lbs (Current: 175 lbs)
Clothing Goal: Apart from my size 36 Chinos, I have a blue Lycra Olympic shirt I'd like to wear this summer.

(I have no issues with accepting 'buddy' requests from anyone, provided those 'anyones' have no issue with journal feedback and support)