I lost 27 pounds! I have another 13 to go, but now that I know how to do it, I will have the healthy fit body that I've been working towards a lot faster.

I gained the extra weight as a result of two car accidents within two years. I had 12 procedures on my spine within 3 years, and throughout it all, I watched my weight go up, up, up. Even though I went to the gym to workout, or at least stretch almost every day, I could never lose the weight I had gained. My friends at the gym cheered me on as they watched me change from a fat, flabby new member, to a fit, healthy gym rat. Something I never thought I would be.

Here's how I lost the weight and got fit:

1. Exercise. Every day I move.

Walking is the easiest way to get started. Increase your distance and speed in small increments, starting at 15 minutes the first few times. Increase the speed and distance each week. You will notice your clothes getting looser within weeks.

Six months after I started walking, I increased the speed and distance so that eventually I was running up to 5 miles every few days. I entered the 5K Race for the Cure in West Palm Beach, FL, in January 2006, one year after my final surgery, and had a total running time of 35:31. That's just over 11 minutes a mile. My trainer was so proud, we laughed and cried.

2. Watch what you eat. I don't believe in denying my self anything.

I just remind myself how hard it was to get the weight off in the first place and how good I feel when my clothes fit comfortably. I love chocolate and sometimes I can't say no. I eat some to taste, and get rid of the rest. When I do enjoy a few more sweets than I should, I add more exercise time onto my workout. Remember! Food is good, but nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.

3. Avoid alcohol. Drink alcohol in moderation.

I love a cold beer! But I don't like what it does to my stomach or waist. I lost weight by limiting my alcohol intake and reducing the number of drinks I have. I love watching football with my friends and having a few beers. Sure, I love to party with the gang, but I have a beer, then, switch to water. I still have a good time and I feel so much better the next day.

3. Get outside. Enjoy the outdoors. Just a few minutes outside can change your whole attitude. I started cycling outdoors to freshen my workout routine. I didn't want to get stuck in a workout rut by staying inside the gym all of the time. Not only does being outside clear my head, it helps me to

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