So I am down almost to 50% of my goal. I've been at a stall for a bit now. I am working on that.

In journalling at home, it really hit me today that I am losing my best friend. It is a bad toxic friend - yes.

My question is - In moving to the latter end of my weight loss journey, how do I cope emotionally with this so that I don't go back? How did you do it?

I hope that doesn't sound corny

Hmmm.... first, congratulations on your progress! Food is something so difficult for people to understand, myself included. I was always given a cookie if I was a good girl or ice cream if I did well on a test. It was always a reward. I learned to adopt a different reward system (a manicure, a few hours of me time, etc). Thats much more rewarding to me. Unfortunately the "reward" foods taste so darned good. As long as I don't treat myself to it, I'm OK. ONE BITE never works for me because I remember my affair with that treat and all the good memories come flooding back. NO BITES! Thats what I try to do but I am not perfect. The trick is to know your weakness.

That is a very good point. I cannot allow myself to have 'one bite' either. Its like a really messed up love affair

Thank you

[QUOTE=aprils0909]QUOTE]

Congratulations to you too!! You met your goal That is so exciting!!

Hi, I keep a picture of me at 275lbs, it is almost like a scared straight method, I did that to myself and I am not going to do that again.....
I also reward myself, if I reallllllllllly want something (NOT FOOD!!!!!!!) I can have it when I get to a certain weight. When I get to 150 I want another tattoo.

Take care
Astrid

Thanks, this weekend at my parents set me back, but I'll be back at-goal by Thursday or Friday. Just in time to start the weekend, my hardest time of the week. I appreciate the support!!!!!

That is the key isnt it?? Changing our reward system from food to something else constructive I keep out on the top of my dresser a pair of jeans I wore when dh and I were dating. *sigh* I am making progress with them. At the start they came to my knees. Now I can get them to my butt, but not over my hips. Pretty soon I'll be inches away from doing the button up

Way to go on your weight loss Astrid

astrid said: Now that's a very good idea! Cute, avatar there.

I'm not sure I understand. Do you mean the part of you that made you feel comfort was found in food?

First of all, congrats on hitting your goals! Wow, that is awesome! You must feel wonderful (despite a "setback" at your folks!) Secondly, what a clever analogy about the "toxic relationship", I like that. Is that how you keep yourself on track with the rewards system? I'm thinking that might also work for me in terms of spending money on food, I could use it towards things that I enjoy like mani/pedis, facials, concert tickets, etc.

Astrid, I also like your suggestion about the photo. You have had made such progress, it's obvious it works as a reminder. Thank you ladies and keep up the good work!

Yes that is what I mean. Everything I do to celebrate, mourne etc I find my comfort with food. Its where I turn to feel good, feel better, feel sad, drown sorrows etc... Its the friend that most normal people have - that actually responds back!! Rather than just giving me an extra few pounds