before. measure you meat raw as well. if you can't do that, I usually measure my cooked meat at 6 ounces.

that's what I've been doing but for some reason today I thought maybe I was doing it wrong

thanks Ems

Schenectady, 65X65, Jendilly:

I TOTALLY agree with all of your sentiments. Well said.

I have endeavored since I started this journey in July to not cheat and to follow the protocol to the letter. I have a lot of motivations for this including cost and the desire to get this weight off once and for all. Additionally, if I opened myself up to the possibility to cheat, I was setting myself up for possible failure.

Has it been hard? Heck yes! Many times I would have liked a drink, but I new that at a point in the future I would be able to and phase 1 "isn't forever".

Thank you to every one who has provided info and support to me in my journey. I can only hope that I am as much support to you as you are to me.

Carol

Schenectady I agree with you totally - I have to follow "IP to a "T" or I'll be right where I was prior to joining the program - just a bit over 2 weeks ago - that's the story of my life - I never finish anything - well it's time for me to make a change - I'm feeling great and I like the feeling - you are an inspiration - thank you

maureen

Schenectady, 65X65, Jendilly

Staying 100% is the way to go, weight comes off faster and able to stay motivated more, at least I do. Have done every diet out there and this is the only one that has truly worked for me. All of you are great to support and encourage and that is greatly appreciated.

All have a great night and stay warm, we are to be 9-10 below zero again to night so tired of cold, don't mind snow, but when is this cold can't stay warm. Since I have lost wt.

Have a great day tomorrow and motivated and on target with IP

So, I ate a Big Mac and Fries tonight for dinner. Not really, but it was the Big Mac in a bowl and turnip fries. I've felt more adventurous with food, so I bought turnips and rhubarb today. Made the rhubarb from the recipe video I got from IP the other day...super good! Cooked it mostly all the way down and it was like warm applesauce. The turnip fries were good, too. Just wish I could figure out how to make them crisper. I'll play.

I'm finding ways to be creative, make some new things so I don't get bored, and have fun foods. Oh, I also picked up the chocolate/hazelnut tea decaf herbal tea. YUM!! I won't cheat on IP. To me, it's just not worth it. I'm paying A LOT for the food on plan and I want to stay moving downwards on the scale. I'm so happy to have all of you here to continually provide ideas and support.

Staying OP is my goal too, and I am 100% IP. I understand why people do alternative plans because the cost is prohibitive. I am hoping to stay OP for as long as I can afford it.

When I started IP I gave up things like my creamer, that I have never (not once) given up while dieting. After a bad 2013 with health and gaining 60 lbs I knew no matter what I would be 100% OP and I know it hasn't been but 4 weeks on Wed but I haven't cheated once (even with creamer still in the house. It is only going to be 100% for me.

Thank you all for the inspiration on this thread today. I want to be 100% and get to my goal. I feel like I've come so far and don't want to give up on myself.

I'm hoping to do this with support here because I can't really afford a clinic. But I'll do whatever it takes!

Today's hunger on day 4 was a little better than yesterday. I did add the 4th packet because I exercised 90 minutes.

I had fun baking turnip chips in the oven for dinner.

Congrats on all your successes!

Would you mind sharing how you prepare your jicama?

Thanks.