Cynthia, I can honestly say journaling my food and buddyslim are the two most important things I do to get healthy. I use a written journal, the one on here is too complicated for me. I use one page for each day and I don't carry it around with me. I usually find time in the morning to plan out my meals for the day. Staying within my points allowance is much easier that way. (and if I change anything, it's such a pain in the butt ... so I find myself thinking twice before I add anything. I also write in the journal how much exercise, what kind...how my day is going. Even my weight and measurements. I kind of like going back to last year and checking out my old numbers. I know that having a "Piggy Bank" I will be even more successful. I was thinking of having something at coffee hour after church, but I sure didn't want to have to pay a dollar if I went over points at the end of the day. I want that bank stuffed when I reach my goal weight! Tiffany, you said; "I believe a little treat now & then won't hurt you. In fact the experts say its good for you to have it. BUT do most of us truly stop there? No...we let that same voice sneak in during the week and tempt us into something else." I can NOT do that. If I allow myself a little treat I usually don't stop. (and I hate having to kick my own butt, too much like exercise) lol It's like telling an alcoholic it's OK to have one drink. I wish I wasn't like that, but I know me pretty well by now, and I can't be trusted. Not that I have given up on treats altogether, but they have to be pre-planned and counted into the days allowance. No spur of the moment "just this once won't hurt". I guess the secret is to 'know thyself, and to thine own self be true'. Well, I'm almost done here, but I have one moment of joy to share. While I was changing my clothes after church John came in and told me to come outside, very quietly and not let the dogs come with me. I stepped out the door and there were three wild turkeys going down the drive. A big handsome Tom and his wife and a smaller one that I'm pretty sure was their youngster. Such pretty birds. I hope no one gets them for Thanksgiving Dinner.