I have been on SparkPeople now for 7 months and want to reflect on why it is different this time around. I have done different weight loss programs beginning in my 20s. I am now in my 60s and can't say that any of them were successful for the long haul. I am a good loser, or I was when I was younger. But what good is the losing if it comes right back (and it usually didn't take long)?

Here's what I think is making the difference. I feel much more accountable here--to myself and to others who I call my SparkFriends and teammates. The posting, blogging, tracking, and fitness challenges have made the difference. Going to a meeting and stepping on a scale didn't work for me the way SparkPeople is. I was always in a hurry to get the weight off--the result was the emphasis. Now the emphasis is on the process and doing it right. I am so much more conscious of the type and amount of food I'm eating. I'm not BIG on exercising, but I'm doing something almost every day. I'm glad It's not too late to teach this old dog a few new tricks!