Stargazer - well, I, too, will be anxious to shed those last 10 lbs (going to try really hard after Jan 1). Here's some stuff I've come across and think it's going to help me;

Exercise is key: The Biggest Loser taught me a lot about my exercise routine - I do too much of the same thing and need to incorporate variety...big time. In order to loose the last 10 lbs, I need to do at least 60 minutes total per day of exercise and vigorous activity. My cardio has to faster; this will burn more calories and boost my metabolic rate (increase metabolism). I have to change up my exercise routine every couple of weeks. Yeah, I love the Thursday Body Works (weights) class, but I need to try the step class or the other person's class and just change things up. I'm also going to aim for one yoga class a week, because I stress a lot and stress probably prevents me from losing (I know it keeps me from sleeping). Stargazer - lifting your telescope is a good thing, but I don't think it qualifies as focused weight training.

I need to eat my heavier meals early in the day and try, try, try not to eat after 7 PM (a few hours before bedtime).

Make sure I get all my water in (half my weight in ounces....so right now that means 9.75 cups of water per day).

Limit alcohol to one drink per week (I may as well just give it up!)

Try and eat whole foods vs frozen, fast-food, etc. I recently gave up the LA Lites due to the bad stuff in them (I loved my peanut butter bar, so this was not easy to do!). Some folks suggest upping metabolism-boosting foods: peppers, green tea, and grapefruit; another tip I read said give yourself a "cheat" day once a week or once every 10 days. Not an absolute food blow out, but up your food intake; give your body some mixed signals.

Stargazer - you can do this. Keep coming here for support and encouragement and show us your progress.

Joni, Thanks for the tips. I'll see about getting some of this incorporated into my schedule. Particularly the "cheat" day. This is good especially with the Holidays coming on... I'm just waiting for the power comes back... ;) We've been without since Thursday last week due to a BIG windstorm. I had forgotten how cold it can get on those clear nights when I'm NOT out with the scope. LOL

Talk to you soon!