I am really having trouble picking which diet to fallow.
I really dont want to give up ANY group of food.
I thought about Atkins or Weight watchers.
How is it working for you all.
I have the book. I think I will give it another read!

Welcome back Cara. I remember your name from earlier this year

With this plan, you will be giving up certain things: processed foods, hamburger helper, potato chips, brownies, cookies, etc. Now this doesn't mean you can never have these things again, but they will no longer be a daily or even weekly occurance. What you will get is wonderful new grains, lots of fresh veggies and fruits once you get past the 10 day Wave one period, lots of wonderful new tastes and good nutrition. Dairy does not play a big role in Sonoma, but I have found things like tofu cheeses, and almond cheese that are jsut wonderful.

My blood tests are better than ever, energy level is high, moods are better, skin and hair are better and my weight loss is just fine. Of course I'd like to lose these last few pounds, but that will happen when I'm ready I guess. The main thing is I am far healthier now than I was before.. and that is the point of this whole thing. More than just weight loss.. but overall health.

I'm working on day 4 of wave 1. I know I'm not far into it, but I do have an opinion about what I've experienced so far. It has it's good points and bad. I'm originally from the midwest so this type of eating is brand new to me. I decided to go by the meal plans in the book and use their recipes. The only ones I've liked so far are the Sonoma Express Salad and the Chicken and Black Bean Wrap. I've decided for my tastes as well as those of my family's (who hasn't appreciated the recipes either) I am going to make my own menus following the guide. I did this yesterday and it worked great. (You may love the recipes.)

I do miss some things, but I just started this way. I had been counting calories since Jan 10, 2006 and had lost 25 lbs. I started The Sonoma Diet on this past Sunday and so far have lost 3lbs. I honestly didn't think I would lose so much my first few days since I was already dieting and eating healthier before this. I guess I learned I wasn't eating as healthy as I could.

I do get hungry in the mornings before lunch, but surprisingly haven't been that hungry for dinner or after dinner. I feel full most of the day. It's a nice change. I think the portion guides and the list of foods is a good guide to use on what to eat to be healthy.