And she's off...

Here are some of the key components of my weight-loss plan:

• Eat less than 1700 calories a day on the vast majority of days
• Do not let one bad meal derail my success
• Eat more fruits and vegetables - try for 5 servings a day
• Drink water - most days I drink 98% diet soda
• Read others' success stories to give myself encouragement
• Be open about my struggle with my husband so that he can help me
• Wear my pedometer and try to walk 10,000 steps per day
• Get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day - use the gym membership or ride my bike or run or use the treadmill.  There are many options available and no excuse to not do something
• Reward myself for my success milestones - I will save $10 per pound lost for the purchase of new clothes.  This is the only way I will purchase clothing.  I will reward myself each time I enter a new decade of weight with some type of pampering (pedicure, massage, etc...)
• Plan what I am going to eat each day.  Try to eat at home more often.  Prior to going to a restaurant, educate myself about what is available. 
• Plan less outings around food.
• Learn to handle vacation/out of town for work eating

All of these things are easily within my grasp.  I just need to keep my eye on the prize and focus.

great!

Sounds like a great plan!  I love the one about paying yourself $10 per pound toward clothing.  I think that's a fantastic idea, and I may try to incorporate that into my own goals.