I was also thinking about this thread. Amazing that it is still going strong after 2 1/2 years. It is an ongoing struggle for so many of us.

I was really disappointed when I went back and re-read how well I had done a few times, but then put the weight back on. <img border="0" alt="[c]" title="" src="graemlins/c.gif" /> I am realizing that the motivation has to be deeper than just getting in shape for a cruise or a specific event, because once that event has come and gone, then what? Well, here is what I did. I lost the weight, then figured what the heck I am going to eat what I want during the cruise and then just go back on the diet when I get home but it just never happened. I get back and say, I'll start back next week, then that week comes and goes and I think, OK, a few more days isn't going to matter, and before you know it the weight starts to pile back on. Then another cruise or event comes up and I start the process all over again. <img border="0" alt="[bang]" title="" src="graemlins/banghead.gif" /> I think the motivation has to be a real desire to change the way you live with regards to diet and exercise. You have to view food and exercise in a whole different way and it has to be all the time, yes you can stray a little bit occasionally, but it really comes down to choices. You can still eat well but make good and healthy choices and be happy with yourself or you can pig out on stuff that you know is bad and unhealthy for you and pay the price. Then there is also a choice on exercise. You can get out and exercise and feel great and have lots of energy, or decide to be a slug and sit on your fat behind and have limited energy!

Who knows! I'm a slow learner, but just maybe I'm finally starting to figure out that feeling great, having lots of energy, and looking better are far more satisfying than any unhealthy indulgence can possibly be! I think Kathy said it best when she said, "Nothing tastes as great as thin feels!"