a few events led to weight gain. First I got in a car accident. I was thin at the time and worked out regularly-plus had an active job. After the accident, it hurt too much to work out. I lost my muscle tone, but did not gain b/c of my job and lifestyle-waitress/bartender/busy student. I then graduated from college and got a sedentary job. I exploded! I gained 25 pounds in 3 months. When people say you gain weight slow, expect to lose it slow, they did not see my transformation!

as lisa above, I grew up with fresh, whole foods. Other than bread, we did not have packaged, processed foods, soft drinks etc in the house. Everyone in my family is prone to obesity (my brother has been as much as 125 pounds overweight), so I am thankful we were not eating a bunch of garbage growing up.

Also- I really love food! plain and simple. Low carb and weight training is the only way I can keep things under control.