I finally read through all the post. I feel for everyone and don't know what to say. My troubles seem so small compared to many. I am almost 63 retired 2 years ago after working as a nurse in Long term Care for 25 years. I was a workaholic and cannot believe I don't miss it. I had hip replacement in the winter and couldn't "go back" to visit because of the weather and have only been back a few times. I feel guilty for abandoning the residents but I did it. Started helping my mom cut out quilts a number of years ago when she got so she couldn't stand to cut. Got hooked about 4 years ago when I jumped in with both feet and took a class on the magic quilt block!! Was so excited about it my cousing talked me into teaching a community ed class on it, I love to share and don't consider myself a "teacher" so only charged $10.00 for the class. I think we had 8 sign up and we had a ball!! They are bugging me to do another but I just can't find the time. I have a ton of arthritis and need my hip replaced again (I have worn it out)Need all the joints in my fingers replaced and might have that done this winter. I have gained about 20 pounds since I retired and the biggest reason is sweets and inactivity. I am working on eating healthier. Was inspired by my husbands cousin and her husband who have lost a ton of weight and have managed to go off insulin and blood pressure pills. My biggest motivation to keep on track tho is to see if I can influence my husband. We have started to diet so often and never stick to it. He is about 175 pounds over weight. So far he seems to be motivated by me so I can not give up. I read the posts and am inspired so it goes!!