'I wanted something different for myself.'

Crystal Guillory, 46, Largo

Height: 5-foot-2

Starting weight: 290

Current weight: 130

Why I did it: When you grow up near New Orleans, food is a major part of your life. When the rest of the country is slimming down for the new year, we're devouring the customary Carnival King Cake. With a festival just about every weekend, there is always a reason to indulge. This is one of the reasons I've had a lifelong battle with the bulge. Another big reason for my weight problems was that I used food as a comfort and stress fighter, although it provided neither in the long run.

To be fair, I can't blame my former region; someone in Boise or some other city can have the same problems. I tried various diets and did some walking, but I didn't commit myself.

Eventually a little storm by the name of Katrina provided the catalyst for me to move and change my life. Once I moved here, I started walking every night ... but eventually I knew that wasn't enough.

To be honest, it was the genuine desire to upgrade my life into something better that motivated me. I was tired of being tired, and I wanted something different for myself.

How I did it: In 2007, I joined the Shapes fitness center in Seminole. The staff was very helpful. The first time I got on the arc trainer, I didn't think I was going to last 10 minutes - but I was determined. And I finally made working out a regular habit.

Unfortunately, even though I had an exercise routine, I remained at basically the same weight. I decided to join Weight Watchers so I could have weekly accountability. The program gave me the education to look at the food I was eating and why I was eating it. I learned about portion control and better choices. Instead of eating until I was stuffed, I learned to listen to my body when it signaled that I was satisfied. This combined with the exercise I was doing at Shapes helped me lose weight.

Hurdles: The biggest hurdle I had to overcome was a plateau in summer 2009. It was horribly discouraging, but I was determined to not let it get me. I tried new exercises (such as Aquasize) and continued my program, and eventually the plateau broke!

Going the distance: As of July, I am a lifetime member of Weight Watchers, which is the goal I had set for myself! As a lifetime member I only have to weigh in once a month, but I attend the meetings and weigh in every week to keep on track. I also exercise every day for 30 minutes to an hour, depending on my schedule.

I'm able to get on the floor now, so I do yoga. Also, my husband and I participate in a 5K race once a month (he runs, I walk). I'm going to participate in the Memory Walk on Sept 25 and a 5K that evening! In December, I'm going to walk a half-marathon, which should be a challenge. But I am looking forward to it.

Best advice: Get a good set of measuring cups and spoons to measure out the right portions. Keeping a food diary is a helpful thing, so you can see the amount of food you're eating and determine if you are truly hungry or eating out of boredom. I have found having a support group of friends and family can be a big help! I also would suggest becoming active by walking or doing some other exercise.

My personal mantra is "Finish Strong!"