Hi Rebecca, I too weigh 170 (am 5'5") and JUST began to get myself together for an honest change in lifestyle. Now I am brand new at this buddy thing but would be happy to give it a shot. What type plan are you following? I am trying to lose by making healthier choices, not a true south beach diet but certainly more along those lines in that I have cut out all the processed stuff and am eating healthier fats. I am in no hurry to lose so long as I lose and do not gain anymore! I will not do any hard core two week thing, I want to make a lifestyle change. I am currently eating about 1000 calories a day but haven't really even found out what my intake should be?! I bet that info is here somewhere, I just need to look. Well, I am here if you want to give me a hollar.