Hi Theresa and Welcome.

I ate a mixed meat and veg diet for the first 20 years of my life. Then allowed myself to get sucked into the vegetarian diet being healthier. That's when my BIG problems really began and continued.

I started the Atkins two months ago and it felt like a plant that is wilting away for lack of feeding feels when suddenly I notice and water it. Suddenly it comes to life and recovers - almost within minutes. It's wonderful.

And you are right to not go on about it with your friends and relatives, especially if they are vegetarian too. They will do their best to get you back in their camp. But you CHOOSE for yourself. Go on how YOU really feel.
Take care and good luck - not that you need it after the first couple of weeks.