Motivation--being the turtle--blaming others. Yes, these have all been challenges for me in the past. My motivation continues as long as I am losing weight...Oh, but if I skip meals or find a diet pill or a diet drink I think I can trust I could lose weight faster...And then my husband wants pizza for dinner and I am supposed to eat half of it...

So what is different this time? I've been working this plan for about 3 1/2 months. I am the tortoise, and I have been losing weight steadily. This week, I didn't realize the food I was eating had so many calories...I hadn't logged it in yet and was surprised when I looked at the calorie count. My husband does the cooking so I have to figure it out after he has everything made. Oops. But, like Chris says, look at all I have gained by losing already! Wow! I'm in smaller clothes, I feel better and I am happier with myself. I have increased confidence! I CAN get right back in the saddle and I CAN say NO to more than 1 piece of pizza or whatever else my husband thinks I should be splitting with him. It'll re-heat as leftovers in a day or two. Today, my co-workers went to the Pumpkin patch with the kids and brought back a bunch of candy. I said, "No, thanks, but thanks for offering!" It felt good.

I can say NO!