The reality of long term maintenance

I haven't found it particularly hard to stick with these habits. But I have my indulgences so I don't feel particularly deprived, either.

One thing you can do is find something active to do as a hobby (you notice I don't call it exercise) so you have some insurance calories. With more exercise, your 1200 calories a day could be 1500 and that's enough for a cookie a day or maybe some ice cream once in a while or whatever it is you like to eat that you are depriving yourself of right now.

Like Fawn, I'm big on the whole finding a happy weight and not stressing too much over whether it's 5-10 more or less than what your mind tells you it should be. If you end up eating 1300 calories a day and gaining a few pounds but you are living a lifestyle you can maintain forever, you will be much happier than if you are constantly fighting to stay at a slightly lower weight and often can't eat what you'd like to eat.

I'm already at the point where I fear re-gain.  I do indulge in a sweet now and then (generally ice cream), but so far, it hasn't really hurt me.  I have continued to lose, albiet slowly.  But, I really don't want to lose any more.  I'm very comfortable with where I'm at and with how I eat.  I don't want to struggle daily, which is why I didn't set my goal any lower.  I know myself well enough to know that I'm weak and to keep off another 15 pounds would be impossible for me. 

That said, I'm at 145 this morning, 5 pounds from my high school weight, so I'll take it!!  And I'm 5 pounds under the goal the doctor set. 

Now might be the time to incorporate some exercise, Diane.  I know how you hate it.  I used to hate it too, but now I'm feeling crappy when I don't!  Who knew that I would like it!?!?!?  I find it challenging and just a part of my daily routine now.  I do hate taking my morning walk in the dark, but I take my pepper spray (for dogs) and wear a headlamp with LCD lights so I can be seen.  It's quite peaceful in the mornings and I love to hear the birds waking and singing in the daylight. 

You painted such a pretty picture of your morning walk that I cannot wait until it's cool enough to walk outside here again.  I do the treadmill thing for now.

Oh I hear ya Trish!  Our hot spell didn't last as long as yours....you Texans like to do things BIG! lol

We've had a lot of over 100 degree days, but the mornings were still ok for walking outside.  I love the mornings.  When we are camping, there is nothing like going outside just to listen to nature.  It's very calming. 

I have had to do the treadmill a few times, though.  It's not as much fun, but I feel like I get a better workout on it.