I really like this thought Chris...Do the opposite of what you would normally do! Because obviously I already know that what I've been doing...my "norm"...most definitely isn't working. I can't do the same things and expect to get different results. So next time I'm really going to make an effort to do the opposite...no matter how uncomfortable that feels at first.

I truly believe those little steps...those small changes...add up. It's the day in and day out bad habits and poor coping methods that lead you to be this overweight....not the vacation or party I endulged at a few times that year. Instead of focusing on the occasasional big blow outs and focusing on the day in and day out habits and ways I deal with life...for me I think that is the key. And the start of doing that is do what you wouldn't normally do...For me that would be to Go for a walk, do something active, find a positive outlet that does not involve any kind of food. Really analyze the day in and day out poor habits...and come up with better solutions...and get excited about them and the positive change they can have on my life.

In my expereince, just seeing that I am an emotional eater was huge as I lived in denial about it for many years. So good on you for seeing your truth!!

Because I lived in denial that I used food as a drug, I was unable to stay on any diet. There was always something that drove me to eat.

It was not until I started to go to OA meetings and learn about my compulsive overeating, that I was then able to learn tools I need to manage myself. I also had to go back into therapy at the same time, to really examine my "issues". What were my triggers?

Stress....feeling bad about myself around my family...anger, frustration, disappointment...I needed to find words to be able to express myself as I was stuffing my emotions down with food. I came from a family where it was not allowed to express emotions....had to keep my mouth shut or risk a beating.

So I learned and over time, I healed...but it took a lot of work and introspection on my part. I have to stay in touch with myself and when I'm upset, not run to food....Now I write about it or call a friend to vent about it. I've worked way too hard to ruin it for myself by overeating!!

This is really inspiring. Congratulations on the weight loss and finding peace.

Thanks!!

GREAT suggestion; that's also what Ido! When I find myself lurking around the fridge (and I'm NOT HUNGRY!), I head to the computer and get online - before I know it - HOURS have gone by! I've also started myself a low carb recipe book in a large 3-ring binder. I worked on it 3 HOURS today sorting recipes, etc. to keep from lurking in the kitchen! I truly believe it's just an OLD HABIT! One that got us into LOTS of weight issues...

like someone else said also, get up and get going...that IS WONDERFUL advice also!

K