[Susie_Bee]

Happy Sunday everyone!

I hope that everyone has been having a good weekend. Congratulations on all the great WIs and NSVs!

Thank you for all of the well-wishes for my son's birthday! The birthday party was a huge success and my son had a great time! 8-year-olds are a challenging group! I found this age group harder than the 4-year-olds because the parents don't stick around anyomre and this particular group was very energetic!

I forgot to get a pic of me in my yoda shirt... I'll try to have DH take one soon just for fun! I was real busy hosting and organizing and didn't get many pics. I need a "Superwoman" T-shirt now (I saw one when I bought my Yoda shirt and I will go back for it soon - royal blue with the big "S" on the front). I never wore "fun" t-shirts, not even when I was younger... I think this is going to be a new thing for me!

Originally Posted by BROWNEYES47

NSV yesterday.
I teach machine embroidery at my local sewing store one day a week and was getting ready to head out to class. When I went into my closet I discovered not too much that I can fit into any longer. All my slacks are either WAYYYYYYY too big or not quite big enough (like so many of us... I have various sizes of jeans, slacks, etc.--must have skipped a size, however) So.. I opted to wear a dress instead. I haven't been able to get into this dress in years... still very pretty and a classic style. I put it on and WOW! It not only fit, but it was just slightly loose. So I decided to wear it while I still could.

I received so MANY compliments and the fact that at -19 pounds people actually noticed that I am losing! I know that you probably know that feeling, but I had to share it anyway. I'm so thankful for IP and for the people on here who continually keep me motivated. I may be losing the weight, but it's because of your support that I am being so successful.

Thank you!

That is so awesome! It's fun to fit into old favorites again! It will be fun to find new favorites too!

I found that the 20 lb mark is usually when people really start to notice the change. Some people noticed when I was around 10 lbs but you really get comments onwards from 20 lbs!

Keep it up! You are doing great!

Originally Posted by M0vingon

I can't believe it's the weekend already! Congrats to LeeArr and Reenabeana on some solid losses this week!

I spent about an hour going through old clothes that I had packed away but never actually donated. I'm glad now because I found a few pairs of pants and a couple of tops that I can wear again- my skinny Banana republic jeans fit me again. It's time to get rid of most of my old pants because every time I go up the stairs to my office, my pants are falling down. Not too professional when you're caught hiking your pants up at the top the of the stairwell.

I've read about doing a cleanse at around week 5. I was wondering if anyone has done one? I sure feel like I could use one this week. Blech.
I hope everyone has a fabulous day!

How fun! It's great to fit into old favorites again. It's a good thing you never got around to giving them up! I have the "pants falling down" issue too... and skirts that invert while you walk so that the back seam ends up in the front. It's cute in the office!

Now that my son's birthday is out of the way, maybe on a future pay, I can invest in some better-fitting clothing!

Originally Posted by ontariophotogal

Happy Friday everyone

I had WI 15 this morning and no shocker for me, I didn't have a loss OR a gain. It's been a bit of a rough week as last weekend I had a bridal shower and ate a small sandwich and a couple of strawberries and then just yesterday, I took the kids out to Boston Pizza as they've been begging to go and I decided to treat myself for my birthday with a couple small pieces of pizza and a couple of breadsticks. I knew what I was doing and what I was up against and I am ok with it. I kinda wish I had waited for that birthday treat until today since today is my actual birthday but what's done is done and I'm back at it this week. I am thankful that I didn't have a gain and also thankful that when I have indulged, I haven't gone overboard and feel MUCH MORE in control than I ever have in this life. It truly gives me hope that when I make it to maintenance, it won't be as scary as I once thought

Hope everyone is having a great day! I'm spending mine with a couple of sweet newborns in the studio

I just wanted to wish you a happy belated birthday! I hope you had a wonderful day!

Originally Posted by Porthardygurl

Good morning all..or afternoon for some of you...

Well..day3.. i finally hit day 3 of phase 1...and today i woke up without hunger pangs..Praise God!! Cause i had horrible hunger pagns for the past two days..and now..there GONE!!! YAY!! So happy! Finally got used to the shakes(alternative) I found adding cinnamon helped cut the extra sweet taste im getting from the stevia in it..

I still feel tired..but overall..way better than the past two days..i think were looking up..

Oh and i wasnt supposed to check my weight cause i told my hunny to hide the scale..but i cheated and used my wii fit board last night..and it told me i lost 2.2 kg..or 4 pounds.. My BMI moved from 39 down to 35..crazy hey?

Anywho.. i hope everyone has a great day and happy losing!

Yay! on getting through the worst of it! It's all uphill from here! Of course, some days are better than others but you will be feeling so much better soon!

Originally Posted by NonieRuns

Happy Friday All--hope you have a grand weekend planned!

Sunshine on the horizon here--yippee! 6 mile run on tap tomorrow (Half Marathon next weekend).

I'm now ordering/wearing size Women's Small race shirts and not only does this size fit me better on top (shoulders) it is now "slipping" over my hips!

I love the IP program/results and I'm one of the very slooow losers (less than 2 lb. average per week)--so hang in there everyone. You are all doing GREAT!

Wow! Wishing you the best for your half-marathon! Congratulations on the smaller size!

Originally Posted by JoAnne9597

Ok well we are off in the morning, going out of town to my dad and step moms house. They have bought a new house and having been moving since yesterday. So we are going to help them. They have no idea I'm doing IP. And I haven't seen them for about 2 months. I'm wondering if they will notice. I will have to tell them once I start eating differently then them. I'll have to plan my meals tonight for the next 2 days. Hopefully they will make something healthy for dinner saturday night. Or maybe I'll just bring my own chicken too...lol. Well wish me luck for the weekend. I plan on staying OP but I just hope they don't give me a hard time.

I have to tell you a short story about my step mother. She probably weighs 90 lbs soak and wet. And has always been that way, give or take 5-10 up or down. My whole family (aunts, uncles and cousins) have all had a problem with weight. Obviously it runs in the family. And when she came along, she always got alot of attention because she was alot smaller than the rest of us. And she's always making deserts and fatty foods to make everybody else around her FAT. And everytime I've tried to lose weight, she's always tried to discourage me saying I look good and I don't need to lose the weight. Just to make herself look good. But she also has alot of emotional and mental problems, issues! I'm pretty sure she is anorexic/bulemia. But of course nobody could ever say anything. So I'm just wondering what she will do once she seems me 23 lbs lighter. I'm not gonna let her take me down this time. If I have to, we (my kids and husband) will just go out for dinner and I'll be able to order what I want.

Anyways, I'm a little anxious about the visit and all but like I said, plan on staying OP. Plus my hubby is very supportive of me and tells me I'm getting skinnier every day. So, I hope everybody has a great weekend.

It's great that you are psyching yourself before the visit. Good luck! I am sure you will do fine this time. You seem to be ready to take on this challenge. Do not let her get to you!

Originally Posted by 2RIDEROLLERCOAST

Hey just looked on the new phase 1 sheet, it use to say not to have restrictions before week 2 or 3 and now there isn't any timelimit on them. Can start them right from the start. I had some packs when I started that were restricted but had read my sheet and didn't eat any until week 3. Must say I haven't bought any of them since then as the bars tasted too much like more. I do like the chili and the bars, but I stick with the peanut or chocolate soy puffs for my treats.

I was allowed restricteds right from the start BUT my coach only let me buy two of them per week during the first few weeks. I kept them for the weekends as special "treats". I love all of the restricted by won't buy chocolate or peanut soy puffs anymore because I just can't behave myself with them! I love to combine the two and I always say that I will only have half and put the other half away for later (so as to have 1 pack at a time) but I have hard time staying away from them!

Originally Posted by Pxlkitty4

NSV!!! I think my dad is going to consider this diet. Background: he has high blood pressure and arthritic knees. He had a scare the other day when he was told to double his blood pressure meds, but had been given a new medication for his knee pain. Anyway, long story short... he had a drug interaction (one caused blood pressure to drop when he took it without eating). He felt light-headed, sat down, threw up, and passed out momentarily... Luckily my parents live in a retirement community in AZ, so it took all of 4 minutes for 9 paramedics to show up after my mother called 911.

He is fine, but bought a BP monitor and is measuring 3x/day. I kindly suggested that it might be time to figure out a way of getting off the BP medicine. When I asked how he thought he might do that, he said "I guess I have to lose the weight." He's about 30-35 lbs overweight...

My parents are coming here on June 15th and we are going to the beach. I was originally planning to go to phase 2, but I think I will stick with phase 1 so that they can see me live the diet, and hopefully they will eat closer to Phase 2with some healthy carbs thrown in so that they can get a sense of what the diet would be like. I don't want him to enter ketosis or go directly on Phase 1 since he would need bloodwork, medical supervision, etc...

[...]

You are SO close to your goal and doing well on phase 2... I am glad that you are so positive even though you didn't quite make the goal.

I once brought up the idea of a goal date with the doctor who meets with me once each month (his wife is my coach). He said, quite simply, don't pick a date... you have no idea what will happen. He also advised me that I was allowed to throw out the idea of a goal weight and just take things 5 lbs at a time. I like that he is open minded and doesn't want me to stress about the program. I have taken that attitude to heart... one week at a time and things keep improving.

I am sorry to learn of your dad's health problems but I find it so wonderful that he is ready to try something that might make such a big difference for himself! I wish him much success and better health! You must be so proud to be able to inspire him to want to do better for himself!

As for me, I started with more of a goal date in mind than a goal weight but I have had to reconsider. I am more focused on a goal weight now as it would be sad to stop just short of goal and perhaps regret it later... I am still not sure if I will stop at 144 lbs or keep on to 135 lbs (my wedding day weight and a goal that I've had in my head all along). I think your Coach was wise in his advice. I like the 5 lbs at a time idea. To be honest, I feel really good with my weight right now and I would be happy to stop here but I know that phase 3 puts some weight back on for some people (as glucogen stores refill) and I would like to have a bit of wiggle room for that... so I am taking it 5 lbs at a time, thanks to your advice!

I know that things have changed a lot for me regarding my attitude towards food in general and I am really at ease with this phase, so not meeting my "deadline" was not so bad after all and I am feeling good about continuing.

It really is a marathon and not a race! I learned that on this board and it is so true!

Originally Posted by DCCyclist

Hello! This is my first post, although I've enjoyed this site for some time. I lost 40 pounds on IP a few years ago and kept it off for a while, but let things slide and gained back 20 pounds. Now I'm back on track, fully committed, and decided that participating on this forum might help to stay on plan.

I love this way of eating, to be honest. It's when I think a cocktail, glass of wine or dessert will somehow make me feel better, I start to lose control. One glass of wine leads to two, and a little slice of cake can be the start of something much more decadent. So, when I stay on program, life itself is sweet.

I like reading all the posts and hope my experience with IP can benefit others and vice versa. I've gone from 175 to 163 in four weeks, and think I'd like to see what 150 looks like.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Thank you for sharing your experience. Maintenance worries me a little but I know that I can just take it one day at a time and that I have to put something in place to catch myself when I slip and not let things go to far! It looks like you are doing great and I am sure you will be back at goal in no time. I look forward to learning more from you!

Originally Posted by ontariophotogal

What a beautiful attitude!! Have a great day!

Thank you so much!

Originally Posted by BROWNEYES47

I can't tell you just how happy I am for you! As I read your post, I found myself smiling and remembering when I was planning parties for my own son. I know you will enjoy the day! Take pictures and share at least on of them here. I'd love to see your Yoda shirt!

Hugs to you, my friend!

I love throwing parties for my children! I should have been a party planner/event organizer as a career. I love it and I am good at it!

Watching my son turn 8, I know that these parties are numbered for him. I am happy to do this for him as long as he still wants it and I am happy to see that most of the children in his class still have that "innocence of youth" about them! One little boy (who I believe was not going to come to the party as they had not responded) came in late and the mom said that he was actually crying while getting his hair cut because they were running late and he was missing the party! He came with a card and some cash as a present... but the mom also has a 5-month-old and said that she was overwhelmed and just didn't get around to replying and was just running late, which I can certainly believe too! Anyways, he still had time to have lunch and catch up to the other kids in having fun and I always have extra party supplies and loot bags, so no loss! Either way, my point is that it's nice to "just let them be little" for a while longer!

I truly enjoyed my day! I think there is only one picture in my Yoda shirt and the birthday cake is hiding it but I will try to get my DH to take another one soon for you! I had to organize all of this, host the party, animate the games with the children... I didn't get as many photos as I would have liked. I should have designated (or even hired) a photographer!

Originally Posted by redhead14

Happy Saturday to all! Here's to a great weekend for everyone and for each of us to take the time to do something fun for ourselves.

My fun is cleaning out all my lower kitchen cabinets, new counter tops on Monday.....OK, maybe not fun but worth it for the new counter tops.

Interesting idea of fun... I get it though! New counter tops will be awesome! Enjoy!

Originally Posted by Ishbel

I believe I'm in the TOM right now - I feel so yucky but I haven't gained any weight. My only fear is that I won't loose this week...which is a silly fear as I haven't changed anything so why wouldn't I loose....such a vicious cycle LOL!

I'm working on a fence this weekend....hopefully it won't rain. Have a wonderful weekend!

I hope you feel better soon. I continue to lose during TOM but my Coach says that some people don't and lose more right after it passes. During my last TOM, I noticed that I lost inches during that time. So, anything can happen but it really shoudln't set you back overall.

Originally Posted by blueandwhite

Have a really fun time celebrating your son today, Suzie! You're so close to your goal. I've loved being on this journey with you, and I really relate to being free of so many 'unpleasant symptoms' that we tend to think are because of age or menopause. I saw my naturopath yesterday for a follow-up on some bloodwork, and all the areas that were not-so-great, have improved!

Bet you're rocking that star wars T-shirt, too!!!

Thank you so much! I felt really good in the Star Wars shirt and got lots of compliments too! This was something different for me and it was a great! Funny how such little things can have such an effect on how we feel.

I am happy for you regarding the "areas that were not-so-great" that have improved for you too! It's so great to feel better!

Originally Posted by Pxlkitty4

Has anyone heard of or tried White Cheddar Cheese Ridges? I was googling to see the ingredients of the soy patty. Came across a facebook page for a clinic in Mesa, AZ. They had posted that the new White Cheddar Cheese Ridges were now available. They are apparently restricted.

I have actually and I was a bit disappointed. They are okay but I didn't like them as much as I like the SW cheese curls... but then, I never have been big on cheese-items and I do like spicy!

Originally Posted by Classy Broad

I got sidetracked and off my happy little IP schedule this week. I decided that rather than get down on myself for it I am going to look into ways I can prevent the same reaction going forward. It has been a rollercoaster of a week emotionally-between pets, tornadoes and work. Ugh! But... Knowing how disappointed I feel by getting off plan motivates me to have a backup plan for the next time chaos hits! A stash of IP treats in the car with a bottle of water to mix, and maybe even my bathing suit as well so I can make myself go to the gym and swim to relieve stress. And the bathing suit would be a good reminder as to why it's not worth the cheat! So... I'm going to get over it, and move forward! Sorry for the rant... but needed to vent...thanks!

It has been hard for me too to control my eating in times of stress/boredom/loneliness. Embrace your inner child. Recognize the feelings and the need for comfort and look into other ways to comfort and spoil yourself too. These feelings are valid and very important to acknowledge and recognize.

I am proud of your for not giving in and not giving up. Dust yourself off and start over and you can do better this time!

Swimming is a great way to relieve stress too. Good thinking!

Originally Posted by blueandwhite

Well...today is the day I start phase 3! I thought I'd be doing it without quite making my goal, but I DID IT! I almost cried looking at my updated ticker; .6 below goal!

Stay strong, everyone! This amazing program will do it's work, we just have to work with it.

Yay! Congratulations! How wonderful for you! You must be so proud! Wishing you the best of luck with phase 3 and I am looking forward to following your journey through this next phase and learning from you!

[Pxlkitty4]

Thanks for all the responses re: the new cheese ridges. I think I will ask if I can get one packet to try...

Originally Posted by JoAnne9597

I have to tell you a short story about my step mother. She probably weighs 90 lbs soak and wet. And has always been that way, give or take 5-10 up or down. My whole family (aunts, uncles and cousins) have all had a problem with weight. Obviously it runs in the family. And when she came along, she always got alot of attention because she was alot smaller than the rest of us. And she's always making deserts and fatty foods to make everybody else around her FAT. And everytime I've tried to lose weight, she's always tried to discourage me saying I look good and I don't need to lose the weight. Just to make herself look good. But she also has alot of emotional and mental problems, issues! I'm pretty sure she is anorexic/bulemia. But of course nobody could ever say anything. So I'm just wondering what she will do once she seems me 23 lbs lighter. I'm not gonna let her take me down this time. If I have to, we (my kids and husband) will just go out for dinner and I'll be able to order what I want.

Anyways, I'm a little anxious about the visit and all but like I said, plan on staying OP. Plus my hubby is very supportive of me and tells me I'm getting skinnier every day. So, I hope everybody has a great weekend.

Bravo - I love your attitude and wish you all the best. Quick question - does your step mother EAT the food that she cooks, or does she make it for others and not enjoy it herself? I do hope that she notices all that you have accomplished and that she is happy for you. But, sounds like you know the situtation well and therefore i'm glad that you have psyc'ed yourself up to react the way you need to.

If I may, I'd like to offer a little advice after an experience that I had yesterday. Our neighbors had us over for a firepit in their backyard. After my son ate marshmallows and chocolate, I realized that I have seriously changed how our whole family eats. I was mortified that he was eating these things a) at all, and b) right before bed... I was so distraught that I came home and got a bowl of blueberries and took it over. My son exclaimed with glee "blueberries!" and proceeded to share them with others...

It then dawned on me that my whole family is "eating better"... and that I am now going to discuss the diet with people from that perspective rather than focusing on my weight loss.

So, here is the plan in my head for discussion going forward:

Rather than telling people that I am losing weight, i am now going to say that "our family has decided to focus intensely on eating well..." and leave it at that. Not only does that make the focus on my whole family rather than me, people can't come back with "you look fine, you don't need to lose any more weight" and I don't have to get into a debate about the merits of the diet.

I have had a few people ask me if "I'm done" and a couple of "you look fine, it's time to stop" comments. All of these have been from people who are now heavier than me. I have been struggling with how to respond to these comments.

I don't eat my IP packets in front of others, generally speaking. They see me eating lean protein, vegetables, and drinking water. Next time I'm invited to someone's house (regardless of occasion), I will come equipped with snacks/food/drinks for all of us rather than just me.

[LOX]

Hi All! I’m feeling pretty proud this morning…went to the movies last night and even though there were “munchers” sitting on either side of me, I was perfectly content with my Southwest Cheese Curls and my water. It feels so good to be in control!!!

Wishing you all a great day!!

[cartwheelmama]

Feeling good today for two reasons...went out the the bars to celebrate a good freinds birthday last night and I drank water.....so glad I did not drink because I am on IP and this morning I feel great....no hangover! Today is going to be a good day!

[katiebeth7]

NSV this weekend - I went out to dinner with some friends from out of town and was able to ignore temptation and eat on plan! Salad with lemon and sashimi roll wrapped in cucumber. I even turned down red wine twice!

I'm so happy to be 30 lbs down this year, and 18 lbs on IP in 4 weeks. Congrats to everyone else for their great weigh-ins this week, and welcome to all of the newbies! Have a great Sunday

[Mizzthingaling]

I'm back on track. Took a break since I was going out of town and wasn't in control of where I ate. It was a blast but I am ready to get the rest of this weight off. I gained a bit but think I did pretty well without going overboard. Maybe it was because I really wasn't hungry. I seem to get fuller faster, which I like.

[Figgypudding]

Well, I finally broke through a stall and I've lost 4lbs in 4 days. I don't really lose it all at once, it just shows up all at once. So I went to lunch with the kids today and ordered a burger wrapped in lettuce, no fries, and unsweetened tea that I added vanilla stevia to. I was proud of myself. As I was halfway finished my tea I kept thinking man this is really good tea. Then I started getting nervous about it. So when the waiter came over I asked him if they sold sweetened tea (most places around here don't -you add your own sugar). He was like oh yeah we have a big vat of it back there it has a ton of sugar in it. (starting to panic now.). I said what exactly do I have? Yep, sure enough, I was given the sweet tea! Oh my God! I just undid an entire week of dieting because of iced tea! Sooo devastated! I ate three steak fries and a tiny 10 carb piece of chocolate before I managed to convince myself that I would not feel better by turning it into a full-on cheat day. I'm at about 50 carbs in my best estimation and I'll add no more than 5 carbs more by bedtime. An unfortunate setback by also a bit of a victory in that I didn't fall completely apart after.

[crawfishmonica]

Hey Y'all, today was my first day of exercise since I started IP a week ago. My counselor to wait until I had been OP for a week and then give it a shot. I went back to my dear old gym and did 30 min. on the stationary bike at a moderate rate with no intervals. Kept the fluids going and felt just fine when I got off. Having my lunch of soup and veggies now with a little added salt. Here is hoping I continue to feel just fine. I want to go back to boot camp Tuesday nite but will talk to my trainer prior to class so that she knows what is going on. I am SO glad to be back to exercising!!!!

Gonna make some kale chips this afternoon and a marinade for some pork steaks. I am going through veggies like there is no tomorrow. My favorite way is to chop up a bunch of fresh ones and marinate them in the Mustard/Vinegar salad dressing over night! So rockin good!!! Esp. the 2nd day after a good soak.

Hope everyone is doing well and having a great Sunday.

[Linden]

Today would have been (can still be?) a great day to start a 4th of July challenge (or Bastille Day if you all wanted to go to the 14th of July and do blue, white, and red, rather than red, white, and blue.) But I'm sorry, I don't have the know-how to start it. And takers?

[vienna11]

Hi everyone

just wanted to introduce myself. Starting IP tomorrow, Monday, and a bit nervous/excited. Hopeful for some good results fast, to keep motivated. I have already lost 60 pounds on my own and have about 40 to go to get back to my pre-baby state and I'm so motivated! The hard part for me will be no alcohol and cooking for my son without taking any bites, but I'm committed.

Vienna

[Pxlkitty4]

Originally Posted by Linden

Today would have been (can still be?) a great day to start a 4th of July challenge (or Bastille Day if you all wanted to go to the 14th of July and do blue, white, and red, rather than red, white, and blue.) But I'm sorry, I don't have the know-how to start it. And takers?

Great idea. I have set up a spreadsheet and a dedicated thread...

https://spreadsheets.google.com/spre...VoY2c&hl=en_US

[Lace and Levis]

Originally Posted by vienna11

Hi everyone

just wanted to introduce myself. Starting IP tomorrow, Monday, and a bit nervous/excited. Hopeful for some good results fast, to keep motivated. I have already lost 60 pounds on my own and have about 40 to go to get back to my pre-baby state and I'm so motivated! The hard part for me will be no alcohol and cooking for my son without taking any bites, but I'm committed.

Vienna

Congratulations and Welcome Vienna! This is a great forum to get some good advise and stay motivated. Just remember losing weight and feeling great is so much better than any food tastes.

[JoAnne9597]

Originally Posted by vienna11

Hi everyone

just wanted to introduce myself. Starting IP tomorrow, Monday, and a bit nervous/excited. Hopeful for some good results fast, to keep motivated. I have already lost 60 pounds on my own and have about 40 to go to get back to my pre-baby state and I'm so motivated! The hard part for me will be no alcohol and cooking for my son without taking any bites, but I'm committed.

Vienna

Vienna!!

Btw...I love the name. My daughter's name is Vienna and she will be 1 year old on the 17th. I have only heard the name once before. Good luck on your journey and just remember we are all here for the same reason. And congrats on your first 60...WTG!!!

[JoAnne9597]

Originally Posted by Pxlkitty4

Thanks for all the responses re: the new cheese ridges. I think I will ask if I can get one packet to try...



Bravo - I love your attitude and wish you all the best. Quick question - does your step mother EAT the food that she cooks, or does she make it for others and not enjoy it herself? I do hope that she notices all that you have accomplished and that she is happy for you. But, sounds like you know the situtation well and therefore i'm glad that you have psyc'ed yourself up to react the way you need to.

If I may, I'd like to offer a little advice after an experience that I had yesterday. Our neighbors had us over for a firepit in their backyard. After my son ate marshmallows and chocolate, I realized that I have seriously changed how our whole family eats. I was mortified that he was eating these things a) at all, and b) right before bed... I was so distraught that I came home and got a bowl of blueberries and took it over. My son exclaimed with glee "blueberries!" and proceeded to share them with others...

It then dawned on me that my whole family is "eating better"... and that I am now going to discuss the diet with people from that perspective rather than focusing on my weight loss.

So, here is the plan in my head for discussion going forward:

Rather than telling people that I am losing weight, i am now going to say that "our family has decided to focus intensely on eating well..." and leave it at that. Not only does that make the focus on my whole family rather than me, people can't come back with "you look fine, you don't need to lose any more weight" and I don't have to get into a debate about the merits of the diet.

I have had a few people ask me if "I'm done" and a couple of "you look fine, it's time to stop" comments. All of these have been from people who are now heavier than me. I have been struggling with how to respond to these comments.

I don't eat my IP packets in front of others, generally speaking. They see me eating lean protein, vegetables, and drinking water. Next time I'm invited to someone's house (regardless of occasion), I will come equipped with snacks/food/drinks for all of us rather than just me.

Well I am back from my visit. It went well as for staying OP. My whole family ate all kinds of foods I couldn't have. Saturday for lunch they ordered KFC and for dinner they all had pizza but not me, I was a good girl and stayed OP. DH and I even went out to the movies saturday night and I had my bottle of water. Everybody was eating all around me but it didn't even bother me. We were late getting in so DH didn't have time to buy pop and popcorn, so I was happy about that, since I probably would have been more tempted with him sitting right next to me eating but I know I wouldn't have had any.

I was actually very disappointed in my family (dad, step mom and sister). I have lost 23 lbs and 49.5 inches in 5 weeks. Not one of them noticed or said anything. I was so heartbroken. When it came to lunch time, I prepared my omelette and salad as they all had KFC. My dad said aren't you having some KFC. I said no, I'm eating this. And then my father said, what are you on another diet??? I didn't say a word. And my step mother didn't say anything. I've worked so hard and was discouraged that my own family would not notice or say anything or be proud of me. My own 14 year old daughter has told me that she can notice. She says mom you're getting skinny!

To answer your question about my step mother eating what she makes. Well not really. She will eat very little but then I can hear her in the bathroom not even 10 minutes later.

I love your advice, that is a great idea. I think I might just do the same. But it would have been hard for my family not to see me eat IP products. We were there for almost 2 days. I did make my own salads ahead of time at home and brought them with me. Even made my own dressing.

But overall, just very disappointed!!!

[JoAnne9597]

Even after my step mother knowing and seeing I was dieting she was still offering to give me stuff. We went to help them move as they purchased a new house. So I was helping her unpack boxes of food. She had all kinds of deserts and kept offering them to me and I just kept saying NO THANK YOU!!!

I think I was more hurt that they didn't even question what diet I was doing. Like they weren't even interested as to what I was doing. I felt like they didn't care.