Nat, phew, I dodged a mistake with the fat in the shake, thanks. I only use flax meal though so should I still leave it out of the shake?

Y'know, I kinda believe weights will reshape me but I'm way over the top skeptical because they haven't in the past...when I followed my own plan. My expectations of visible results are so low my signs of progress will be progressing to heavier weights. I'm undecided about the 'before' pic - no way am I having someone snap a shot of me in my underwear or bikini. Heck, I don't even want to be subjected to THAT sight right now!

SarahO, cool artwork! Is that your back or your work?

And, oh yeah!, I'd love to both lend encouragement and have help when I start on Monday. I'm going to follow this thing (gulp) to the letter as much as possible and I've got to shop for the meals so I have things ready to just eat and then I'm (shudder) ready.

I love the iPod! Do you have a Windows or Mac version? I use my PDA with a 1/2 gig flash card but it's nearly full and I think a 'Pod can be considered 'necessary' exercise equipment, don't you??

I'd keep that flaxmeal out as well - it's fat and fiber, the two things that slow absorption! If you're using flax seeds ground up try sprinkling it on your salads- adds a great nutty flavour.

Re the weights not reshaping your body - what type of plan were you following? Were you lifting to failure and how long did you wait in between sets? Also, how did you eat? As much as we like to think the exercise is key, it only account for about 20% of the results. The biggest factor is the nutrition (yes, this is me needling about the 6 meals a day thing yet again!)

Nat