Hiya neighbor! I am in Kentucky. I started atkins LC on Nov. 28, 2001. It isn't as hard as I thought it would be. I haven't tried the strips yet. I have heard mixed emotions about them. I am doing okay with this........I am however finding it hard to eat all the calories we are supposed to. I have a feeling this is why I haven't lost any more weight this past week. I am hoping for a change soon. I wish you the best and all the luck in the world! We are worth it! Take care!