[Lynn]

Hi to everyone,

Since May, I've been on Weight Watchers, which has been great for me. I've lost close to 25 lbs. My partner has probably lost closer to 45. It's easier to do it together, I have to admit. I always start with a bang and then lose steam.

On WW, nothing is off limits, you just have to watch portion control and make choices. It's been very helpful to develop the mindset that I *can* have anything I want. Now that I don't have to feel deprived, I can decide what I truly want.

Switching to all whole grains, including pasta and bread, eating more fruits and veggies, and adding healthy oils (I include nuts and avocados, even though WW doesn't say so) has made a difference. I try different types of fruits, for variety.

Some of my lifesaving snacks are Popchips, baked lays (both in single serve bags), 90 cal. Special K bars, rice krispie treats, freeze dried apple slices, Skinny Cow ice cream treats, and Progresso Soups. I don't overdo it, but these things help round out the day without going off the plan. I also like low fat popcorn, especially the kettle corn variety. Oh, we also eat the Vitalicious muffin tops. I find them on sale and use coupons. The pumpkin spice is amazing.

Good luck to everyone who is trying to get healthier. I am so ambivalent about losing weight, per se, but getting healthier is not something I can argue with. This year, with the weight loss, I am now back in a normal blood sugar range, my blood pressure is back down to its usual very low, and I no longer have gastric reflux. I have a lot left to lose, but things are definitely moving in the right direction.