Hope you don't mind if I join your parade. I've been struggling with weight on and off forever but after an accident and subsequent surgeries a few years ago, I've gained weight and mush! Over the summer I lost about 20 lbs by restricting calories and fat grams but most importantly, by beginning to exercise every single day. It is so hard to get back in the habit again but it does pay off. My strategy for tough times like the holidays is pick one favorite thing that would normally be taboo and for just one day, eat all you want of it. The next day you just get back on the program and maybe add a little extra walk to your schedule. But absolutely no guilt....realize that it's a way of life and not a prison sentence. Until you get used to the changes in your diet, treat yourself, but only once a week and only in moderation. I used to suck on one Hershey Kiss for as long as it would last once a week just to get me by, or sometimes I would sniff the bag of tollhouse choc chips but not eat one. I was completely nuts, no? But a sense of humor is definitely a great aid and you both seem to have one. By the way, my husband bought me one of those exercise machines and it was just great for drying my handwashables!!!!