Here is my situation; I have only been on this diet since April 7th. I have a vacation to Illinois coming up in July, I want to phase off so that I can enjoy vacation and be a little careless. I am planning on eating three IP "dinners" a day instead of any packets. I want to try a hamburger at this place called "moonshine" Anyways, I feel good about phasing off for vacation. When we come back I want to start back on IP phase 1 with the Alternatives found on Nashua Nutrition. My question is, has anyone had any problems with telling your coach that you are not going to be seeing them any more? I just can't afford to spend the $90 a week. I am also worried that without the high price as a motivator this diet may be less effective... Anyone else have any experience with this? I am a firm believer in doing something 100% or not at all... am I likely to fail?

I am still on Phase 1 (since January--I'm a slow loser but gathering a lot of knowledgd!).

I have taken one break for vacation in April and will be taking another mini-break for a trip out of town this coming weekend. I am not going to weigh-in (on Tuesday) when I return and I told my counselor that. She thought it was great that I was making a conscious choice (not just mindless or out of control eating) to take a little break--sounds like you are planning to do the same.

I would just tell your "coach" exactly what your plan is and I'm sure he/she will support your decision.

I have had two friends who dropped out--one who reached her goal but did her own maintenance (with alternative products)--she is still doing great and keeping the weight off two months later. The other friend had to stop (due to health reasons) about 10-15 lbs. from her goal but she is also doing well on her own modified IP plan.

The bottom line is we just cannot go back to the way were eating before. If you've learned anything, then it should be easy for you to take a break and not gain back much, if any.

Just my two cents! Good Luck!