Hi there Barbee, and welcome to the forum.

You are absolutely right that you have to stay on the plan for ever. It can be a little intimidating to think in terms of "the rest of our lives" but I think it's easier when I remember just what I will be doing for the rest of my life:

I will be slender for the rest of my life.
I will reduce my risk of diabetes and heart disease for the rest of my life.
I will have more energy for the rest of my life.
I will regulate what I put in my mouth for the rest of my life, rather than treating my body as a carbage--I mean, garbage--disposal.
I will have a good self image and strong self confidence for the rest of my life.

So what if I can't eat potato chips for the rest of my life?!?!?!

Best of luck to you!!!!!
Kypraia