Liz, I totally understand what you're saying about this. I often do give the number because I am so damn proud of it. But I also now that people are doing the math when I tell them and there are times I don't want that to happen.

Mostly because I worry that the message they walk away with about me is not that I am determined and focused and healthy, but that I was once lazy and so screwed up in my head that I let myself go in a really big way. And who wants to be thought of as damaged goods??

I realize that's rather superficial. There are plenty of people that I share with openly. But I think it's natural and probably a good idea to hold some information back. Not everyone needs access to your entire life story.

xoDonald