My strategy this time has worked. I'm eating less but eating what I really want, so I'm both more satisfied physically and happier, not consumed with cravings. I really think giving up fake sugars and fake fats has been WONDERFUL. The weight's coming off and I just feel so much better overall.

I've had to buy smaller pants and even need to go out and buy some new, smaller underwear!

I've also finallyfinallyfinally realized that once the weight is off I CANNOT go back to old eating habits of sugary treats, chips, mondo muffins, and so on. And I will not let someone else tell me when to eat -- not all the diet gurus who say to eat breakfast every single day (I am rarely hungry in the morning), not my family members who use food as recreation, and not the clock. I'm going to treat my body with the respect it deserves.