Well, I’ve been writing this blog for nearly a year now, and I suppose a first anniversary is as good a time as any to reflect on how I got exactly where I am. I saw Pittsburgh Hot Plate as an opportunity to “find my voice” or whatever that means…I’ve always felt like I can figure things out better when I see them in black and white. Math, Media Law, my own neuroses…”I can get from Point A to Point B, see? Here’s the path I took!” Anyway, when Chuck graciously asked me to contribute, I figured “What the hell? I’m already going out every other night any way, I might as well have something to show for it.” After one year, I sincerely hope you still enjoy reading this blog. I can say without a doubt it’s the coolest thing I’ve ever been a part of. Thanks.

Now for the bad news: I’m OVERWEIGHT. I know, I know…you’re all rolling your eyes. Sure, I’m “little”…I’m short. I’m like Snooki “little”…It ain’t “little” if you still got a muffin top. After a humiliating and eye-opening experience at the doctor, I decided that I could either bullshit all of you and allow myself to come across as one of those annoying people who eat TONS and never gains any weight, or I could use your support to start investigating a healthier lifestyle. I am 27 years old, I’ve never been married, no kids, and the wallpaper on my phone is a piece of pizza. Which one do you think I chose?

So, here I am. 5’3.5”…nearly 150lbs. Help. In the coming weeks, I’ll be blogging about my attempts to counteract my many years of laziness and happiness. I don’t know how the hell I’m going to give up pizza and wings and beer and cigarettes and Italian hoagies and mashed potatoes and gravy and Captain and cokes and

It has to stop. Now. Help.

Please leave helpful tips or advice in the comments here, or if you’re interested in a more private conversation, email me at katiela@live.com. I am going to humiliate myself into getting healthy…obviously, I won’t respond to any other motivation. Thank you!