I've been on CAd/CAlp for 5-6 weeks after being on Atkins. I have lost an average of 1 -1 1/2 per week so far. As for the ups and downs , that why they say to keep a weight chart. Your weight will fluctuate from day to day sometime. Mine does but I still see a lose at the end of the week. Your meal sounded okay to me , i have a dessert everyday at my reward meal and so far so good. I post my journal t-z and you can read if you want. I felt funny at first about the desserts but now I don't . I've gotten used to the way the diet works and I don't feel guilty about it. I've lost 3 inches off my waist and also off my hips since 11/30/01 so I feel good. Hope this helps you and gives you encouragement. Wawtigress