I joined a weight loss competition, and knowing myself, I figured I'd quit after a couple of weeks. But the results were motivating to continue on. Going up stairs became easier, I don't snore much at all anymore, I'm not as tired, I'm happier, I spend less on food, and I enjoy being active. I used to be tired all the time, stairs were a chore, I slept elevated just to be able to breath at night, I ate out at least once a day, and I hated to get off the couch. My wife has been a great partner in all of this. I could not have done this without her, and she's made amazing progress herself.
The "after" picture says "For Now" because I'm not done. I'll keep losing weight, but not nearly as fast. I'm focusing more on fitness, which will replace fat with muscle, so my overall weight will only decrease slowly. From what I understand, keeping it off is the greater challenge compared to losing it in the first place.
My goals are to run a 5k (instead of just walk it), participate in the Hood to Coast (so if anyone needs someone on their team for 2017, let me know), and my long term goal is to do a triathlon.