Calories counting really is the way to go. For example, I love taco bell. One of my favorite things there is the bean burrito. If I want one, I have one. Then continue my day and work around those calories.

It is much harder though when you don't have people around you who are working to the same goal. Last year around this time I was right on track and lost 16 pounds in no time. Then my friends starting going out more and I couldn't say no. The trick is just committing to what you are trying to do. I look at those foods now and I say, Is that donut really worth all the pain it and similar foods have caused me? Usually, the answer is no.

What's making this easier for me this time around is that my fiance is doing it with me. He sticks with it cause I motivate him, and I stick with it because I am motivated to not let him down.

We are here for you, any time you need advice, support, or to just scream and say "Man I just want to eat a burger (or 3)!" we will be here.

Just a little bit ago I was craving a burger, I could have had one, I had the calorie space left, but I chose to have soup instead. It filled me up and I was tasty, and it cost me fewer calories so if I want a snack later, I can still have one.

edit: also, great job on the soda! i quit drinking it for 2 years cause i felt i was drinking too much, then started drinking it again when i thought i could do it moderately. now when i drink it though it's only diet, and my love for water still remains.

yes soda is a hard one to cut to good for you that you have! if you have the absolute need to go ahead and have diet caffeine free one! it's not that bad to have - however i have learned I cant keep it in the house because If it's here I'll drink it instead of water... So if i really want a soda I have to drive my butt to the store and go in and get a one liter and be done with it- that way I'm working to get it..LOL.. but I never have packs or cans laying around the house I will for sure drink them instead of water..

I would also recommend calorie counting- I've been doing it for 5 weeks now and I've lost 17 lbs and my hubby has lost 20! it works and you still get to eat the foods you love! I have dessert every night! that's my weakness!

Do not be discouraged. your mother is wrong, though (no disrespect). If you were to go to crackers and water, your metabolism would come to a crawl... your body would go into a starvation phase and you would end up gaining more weight than you started with because your body would hold on to every calorie it came into contact with. I agree with the other ladies, find a plan that works for you and do your best to stick with it. If your family cant be supportive, come to 3FC...we are all ears.

Keep at it! This is great stuff!