I can be good for so long and then - a sweet smell can set me off or even just if I've had a bad day or haven't lost any weight - you think I'd be stronger then but NO! I give in. Easter smells have been particularly difficult to resist.
When I'm losing consistently I need no will power the diet does it all.
Any advise for when that little voice says it's only ... go ahead?? Wendye

I know what you mean. The trick is to do whatever it takes NOT to give in to that urge. It is hard but gets easier with everytime that you resist. You didn't know about Carbs before - now you do, so take a different action but the habit is strong.

{.... or even just if I've had a bad day or haven't lost any weight ....} sounds like emotional triggers to me: seeking comfort to make up for the bad day or the disappointment of not making progress in your goals.

We all have triggers - be they psycological, physiological, emotional, mental. Memories of happy times that start the cravings off. We are learning to have the happy memories but cut the connections that they have to Carby foods.

I still can't trust myself to go to the shops at Easter and Christmas time.

Take care.

I find doing self-help work with books or websites on emotional eating is quite helpful. You could go to your local library or bookstore and browse what's available there.

Also keep track of what you are eating and see if there is any food-craving correlation between previous food and cravings. Artificial sweeteners trigger cravings for many of us, dairy does for some....if you keep good records and see these pattern emerging, that data alone can be convincing enough to finally get off the AS or whatever food sensitivity is triggering cravings.

For now, forgive yourself. It's better to stay on-program 6 days out of 7 than only 4 days out of 7... or 20 meals out of 21 rather than only 10 meals out of 21. Try to see the improvement you've made--keeping your eye on the part of the glass that's half full. Focusing on success can stimulate more success.

And since your mood is so effected by it, stay off the scale. Give the darned thing to charity. You'll lose at whatever rate you lose, no matter how often you get on the thing. Pay attention to how you feel, how your clothes fit, and only weigh every month...or every three months...or once a year at the doctor's office.

Thanx for the advice and support you guys. I'm feeling positive and ready to face the world. I think I'll keep off the scales for a while Razzle thanx
Wendye