Thank you! This was the one thing that I didn't "get" until you posted.

Hello all. We are back from 10 days in Jamaica. I am VERY pleased to report that although I ate what I wanted and drank what I wanted, I only gained 4.2 lbs!!! I am back on phase 1 for a few days to get back down to my goal weight. I am amazed at how little weight I did gain (I was really worried that my body would just go into super fat gain mode, but it didn't). LOVE this diet!!

Congratulations! I haven't worn real shorts since I can remember. I have some "long shorts" but mostly wear tan capris in the summer with a floppy black t-shirt. A friend who has been very successful on IP commented how adorable I would look in shorts this summer after losing the weight. Its the image I now have in mind of "success". You must be so happy! And with spring around the corner...

For anyon having problems getting their water in. I am so sorry, my brain is in winter mode, and my lemongrass is hybernating. BUT the good news is, I went to the Asian market and found fresh lemongrass. viola! Steep 1 lemongrass in a gallon of water, let it cool and put it back into the plastic water container. Keep it in the frig. If you want a stonger flavor, use more lemongrass. I hit it with the back of a knife and slice it into 2" chunks before adding it to the water.
So fresh!
Mary

Hi - I have noticed my eyes and skin are much drier than usual. I tend to have dry eyes ever since I had laser vision surgery many years ago but this is very intense. Can barely open my eyes this morning. I keep a bottle of Refresh Tears next to my bed. Open my eyes a slit and put in a few drops. works great. The Refresh Tears are not cheap but last a long time and are so worth it. This was the brand recommended by my eye surgeon. They have gel ones now - those are not the ones I use. I use the Refresh Teasr moisture drops for dry eyes. I don't think I would have been able to open my eyes completely this morning without them!

How awesome to be able to pass IP on to a loved one! I love these stories, and I too tell everyone who asks about IP. Two of my coworkers are now on the protocol after seeing me lose 20 pounds. Happy Happy Sunday!!

Welcome back, I am glad you had a great trip and I know you will pull your weight down to where you want it. Some of us phase 4 chicks have been working on getting the Life after phase 1 thread more active. We need your imput. In fact, we need the imput from more phase 4 people. Personally I would like to hear from some of those who were regular posters last summer and fall. I realize we all have a life outside of cyber space. Have a great day.

Hello all fellow IPers!!

I'm glad to report that so far the week-end is going very well YAY for me !

But this morning, my roomate is in "critical" mode.. 1. she is overweight, not a lot, but she is, and she promotes the being fat is being beautiful, which is great for her but for me I feel better in my skin when I lost weight.

This morning she pull me down because she says I should stop dieting. I won't until the day I feel good! Anyways I just wanting to vant! I'm visiting my super supportive parents tonight!

I can't wait! Have a good OP day!

Hi Sandman's Mom, I wanted to type a post to you in case you are reading the daily chat. I know you are ecstatic about your weight lost. I was 65 when I started this plan last summer, I turned 66 on Jan.2, 2011. I know you can do this, I did. Just stay on plan no matter what and you will get to your goal. I am so thrilled to be rid of all that fat and those extra pounds I was carrying. I feel great and I know you will too. As far as the computer, the girls on this site have to help me. Thank goodness there are a lot of patient and understanding people on this site. I know you and I didn't grow up with computers, but we are not to old to learn. I am enjoying learning more about the computer, but most of all I am enjoying learning how to stay healthy. You have a good son and I am glad he is looking out for your good. I hope he will keep me posted on your progress. Your friend, Judy

Did anyone ever gave blood being on this diet? I'm O- so for me it's very important to give blood, but i'm scared to be on a too low diet to do it.

You have any thoughts?

That's fantastic SANDMAN...MOM if your reading...congratulations

Good for you Vanessa stay strong and don't let anyone bring you down. Isn't it fantastic how we can make these great choices!! I'm like you and I feel good in my new found weight loss and was very very uncomfortable in my heavier body. Have a great time with your parents tonight!!!

Hey everyone!

I'm new to IP this being my first week. I have to say that after reading through different threads I am more motivated than ever. I had a hard time the first few days since I was a coke drinker. It has gotten easier since I got past the hump of not having caffine. It can only get easier from here, right??
Anyway, thanks to everyone who has written about their success stories. I hope to be one of those people soon!

Have a wonderful day!!
Lindsey

Welcome, Lindsey! From a huge Diet Mt Dew addict I want to tell you: YES it does get much easier. You've gotten through the hardest part.

Thank you for the information Darb7 It just has gotten really expensive following the IP protocol. I have followed it in the boot camp version. I feel like Im taking money from my family that we could use for other things even though they are really supporting me on the IP.What did your daughter and her husband take as alternatives to lose so much weight?