Hi, Lisa J. I had gotten pretty far afield during September and October. I was averaging about 2,000 calories per day, plus I was only making it to the gym 1-2 times per week. I was eating a lot of carbs, plus allowing myself "treats" almost every day. I realized I was headed back down a path that I really didn't want to trod again.... So, I made a plan for myself, complete with regular, doable goals. First, I'm going to make it to the gym at least 4 times per week for at least 35 minutes on the elliptical machine. If I make it more than that, great, but not less. Second, I'm eating 5 "mini-meals" during the day, with each "mini-meal" being around 200 calories. And the "mini-meals" need to be something healthy and with a reasonable amount of protein. Then I allow myself 400-600 calories for dinner and some sort of sugar-free treat (SF fudgsicle, SF pudding, etc.). I'm in my third week of this "program" and it's working pretty well. I've lost 7 pounds in the past 2 weeks and am feeling a lot better. I can't tell you exactly how I got my thinking turned around, but I'm back on track now. It took 7-10 days of following this program before I started to feel less compulsive about food. I wonder if it has to do with having fewer carb cravings because I'm eating fewer carbs. Anyway, it seems to be working. Good luck getting yourself back on track. Remember that we're in it for the long haul and for our health! Kellie

Don't apologize Lisa, that is what all of us are here for...to give and recieve support! I think a lot of us have been where you are, or are there now. We need to help hold each other accountable, I think communication is the key to helping each other. Maybe a daily on track post or something, for people to chime in and give/take support? I know I need to be reminded daily of what track I'm supposed to be on. It definetely seems like a lot of people are gone, but for those of us here...let's stick together. Hang in there Lisa, you can turn this around! Shelly

Jane, Thanks for the reply. I only have bowel troubles if I eat something and it doesn't agree with me, then I end up in the bathroom. My coworker sitting across from me is bringing all his leftover candy and mini candies that he keeps on his desk in a basket so he's making it not hard to resist a piece here or there. I go to Curves 2-3x's a week. Maybe I need to go more. I'm getting an exercise bike so maybe that will help me more too. It was mentioned to me by a few otehr members *****sponded to my post that we should check in with each other a couple times a week for support and encouragement. I think it's a good idea. Congrats on getting to 157. I know I will see that sometime just not sure when. Thanks so much, Lisa J. in Mass

Cheryce, Thanks for the reply. Let's do keep in touch so this way we can be there for each other. I know we will both get there sometime soon. I'm never afraid to speak my mind. I figured that if I did then others will follow suit. Lisa J. in Mass

Vickie~ I hope that you are feeling a little better pain wise! I'm scared for you and worried about you! I sure hope that you are able to gain that 5 lbs so they can get you eating again. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Be strong!