This time last year, my best friend and I were going to Hilton Head for a week. (Her parents are THE BOMB, they get a place every winter and harrass you till you agree to come visit)
I had *just* started induction the week we went down last year. I had read the books, so I knew what I was supposed to be doing. I started out with good intentions, packing hb eggs and 'LC' bars for the trip. (yep, the new books tell you that junk is ok. Don't believe it!!) Well...you can guess how it went. LC lasted 1/2 a day. My best friend, who is a very educated, yet open minded person, dissed Atkins at every opportunity with statements like, "How can you say you can't have orange juice but you can eat that bacon fat?"

This year:
I re-started Atkins in 9/03 and have stuck with it.
I have not felt this energetic in years

I am 30lbs lighter than I was last year

I am looking forward to frisbee on the beach and tennis (dreaded it last year - which is sad because for most of our lives I was the more athletic of the two of us.)

After seeing the way I eat and having many a meal with me, my best friend actually comes to my defense when someone makes an anti-Atkins comment, and she rants just like I do about the media portraying the way I eat as a 'meat and cheese diet'.

I have a support system in place this year, that at this time last year, I didn't know existed

I don't know where I'd be without LCE, but I do know that I'd be lethargic, 30lbs or more heavier, and probably not looking forward to my summer clothes and trips to the beach.

So to Andrea and all you guys here...thanks!
Hang in there! What a difference a year makes!

"Do, or do not. There is no 'try'." - Yoda ('The Empire Strikes Back')
Start Atkins 9.1.03
225/198/130ish
My Birthday Goal: Size 14

Tara
Don't know how I missed this post before this. Isn't it great having a friend who supports and understands your choices? This year you will do better. And I am envious of a free week at Hilton Head. A lovely beach. Have fun this year!

Rob
310/228.5/180
Me, a skeptic? I trust you have proof.

Tara, that's awesome!

Remember though, YOU did the work.

I'm very happy for you.

andrea