(((( )))))))Ritzy.

It's going to be okay. Really. You know what? There are people in my life who are still larger who ACT as though I lost the weight overnight and am suddenly unhealthy. The reality of the situation is that I hired a personal trainer and got my butt moving in March - drumroll - 2004. It's been three long years! But you k now what? Every moment was worth it.

Try to see your own choices as small successes, and love yourself a little! Celebrate your success - get a manicure, or a fun spa treatment. One of the best compliments I've gotten was from my massage therapist who said one day you know, you're really looking toned and slim! (slim... me?!)

You're not only able to do it, and capable of doing it - you ARE doing it!!!!

Not only that you'll probably have a much easier time keeping it off when all is said and done.

Oooh.... 3 sisters in my family and we're constantly "shifting" who's the "thinnest." It's so darn annoying. I've kinda stopped talking about weight with them and just kinda... hey, when they see me, it's a nice surprise, I guess.

Stay strong. You can do it on your own!

Ritzy, I've just read the whole thread and you've gotten such wonderful advice! On top of everything that's already been said, I think that while you know you are doing this weightloss in a healthy manner and that it does take time, it's still not hard to be jealous or envious of someone who takes it off so quickly. Yes, you wish her the best and you are truly happy for her success. On the other hand, you almost wish that she had to work a little harder for it. Well, while you're losing slowly you are working, and more importantly LEARNING. She's learned how to drink high protien shakes, but has she learned any skills for maintaining her weight loss? Probably not, unfortunately! Hang in there, you are doing the best things possible for your health and your body. No matter how long it takes, you'll get there, and you will have done it in a way that's good for you.

YuppieGirlie: First of all, thanks so much for the encouragement and support! You don't know how much this all has made my day! I would love to be able to have a personal trainer but finances and schedule doesn't permit at this time. But...I can do what I can and...I will! I do have a treadmill and an apparatus that helps with scrunches/sit ups, and I'm doing that 5 days a week. So....working with what I have is what I will do for now. I'm SOOOO inspired by your success in weight loss! I agree...the time frame shouldn't be an issue...but some days it is.

Apryl: I think you are right about just keeping a zipped lip. In my family, with me and my 2 sisters, it is almost like we WON'T talk to each other because one doesn't want the other to know what they are doing to be successful! Silly, isn't it? Especially for "adults!" Thanks for the encouragement!!

Kelly: You so hit the nail on the head - what is she LEARNING for LIFE? But, you were also right that sometimes our human spirit wants everyone to earn success in the same way and by the same hard work. Doesn't work, does it? I'm sincerely not jealous (I did a little soul searching to make for sure), but it is just frustrating to see such quick results when I seem to bang my head against the wall day in and day out just for a few ounces of loss! LOL!! However, I'm truly grateful for all I am learning! I have learned SOOO much since starting this new lifestyle in January. Even though I have dieted before, this time is completely, totally different. Herein lies the difference between my journey and my sisters.

Thanks again to you all! I wish you all a very blessed and successful day!!