You're not alone. I believe that I made the mistake of not having a definite goal. I kept thinking if I only lose 100 lbs. I'll be happy. I made it to 100 lbs. lost, then just sat there. I'm up and down 10 in given couple of weeks, hoovering at 152-160. I advise anyone newby to please set a specific goal. My biggest problem is the sweet tooth I have at night. I force myself to go to bed early some nights because anytime after 9:30, I'm in the kitchen looking for something sweet. I also need a carb fix sometimes. Since giving up alot of white carbs such as potatoes, white rice, white bread, and tortillas, I need a carb replacement. I tried cauliflower in faux potatoes, but it doesn't give me the sugar overload that potatoe does. Any suggestions anyone has I'd appreciate. I started back to exercising, but afterschool and Saturday tutoring usually give me an excuse not to go. I just need to get consistent. Good luck! We are in the same boat! Jackie

Hi Michelle. I definately understand where you are coming from. I battle this on a daily basis. I even went on a liquid diet for two days, consisting of water and protien shakes. Unfortunately, that didn't last long... I was EVIL because I wanted food. I don't really know what to try next. I too feel like I am going to ruin everything I have worked so hard for. It's very scary and it happens alot. I haven't really gained any weight per say, but I fluctuate 10 pounds easily, which is still bad. It worries me... let me know how you do. I've been getting batter the last few days, other than tonight with the dumb candies! Hope you, and the rest of us, find something that works! Clarissa

Sorry to hear the bad news Diana. I hope it was caught in time. You are definately in our prayers. Keep us posted! Clarissa

Congrats!! I wish I was 40 again! But then, I'm in such huge denial over my age that I am stuck forever in my 40s- just pick a number! LOL I am still working on getting into Onderland- can you believe this? Im 5lbs away. I've started working out at a new gym and I've lost 4lbs since last week- so Im doing something right. Plus when I got tested-my resting heart rate was 68- which was above average for anyone over 50 (don't say it!! ) LOL SO I am working out EVERYDAY 1-1.5hrs of cardio with or without a class and doing weights. This gym is 1 mile from my house- so I love that Im home in 10mins. Plus I can use the Boxer's room anytime I want- and I LOVE that. I'm having fun taking classes- whcih I have not done in 7yrs (back when I was a spry 43) LOL!! I've also increased my protein to 42gms (supplement) + what I eat and I'm trying hard not to notice that Valentine's Day is tomorrow..I do have a box of sugarless chocolate with my name on it..so Im okay with that..but I am dedicated to getting to where I wanna be by my birthday in 6 mos..when I will be 44! LOL!! Happy Birthday Lori!! Donna

My 40th bday is on Saturday nd I am sitting here thinking about the way I spent my last few bdays. Last year, I had lost about 70 lbs by my bday. I was feeling pretty good about myself. This year, I am about 120lbs lighter! And I am feeling great about myself! I am still in awe of this surgery and what it has done for my life. I really worried that I wouldn't make it to 50 years old before I had surgery. I had this fear that I wouldn't live to see my kids get married, or to have grandkids. I am so thankful for everything now. I appreciate life way more and can't wait to live it. I also wanted to thank you ALL for the support you have given me these past 18 months. I KNOW for sure that I wouldn't have been nearly as successfull without you all. I plan on spending my bday with my friends and family celebrating! I am going to buy me a sexy new outfit and make sure someone gets pictures! I am really looking forward to it. My doctor asked me how I felt about turning 40 and I told her that it really is only a number to me. I feel like I am in my 20's and love the look on people's faces when I tell them that I am almost 40! Especially the young 20-something men who flirt with me when we go out!!! They are so funny when they find out that I am as old as some of their mothers! Anyhoo... I hope you girls over in NY are getting unburied from the snow! Gosh I don't envy you! We have had our share of nasty weather this winter and I am soooo glad Mr. Groundhog predicts an early spring! Take care and remember to take time for YOU! and Lori