I'm in an unusual space for me. On the one hand, I'm totally determined and committed and motivated. On the other hand, I'm not really on a diet. Don't get me wrong -- I'm tracking my food and eating healthy. I'm following VB6 -- eating vegan before 6 p.m. and then loosening the reins for some animal products and treats. But I'm not on a diet. 

For the first time ever, I'm doing something that I think could be -- gasp -- sustainable. Permanently. 

I'm working out about 5 days a week and going for walks nearly daily. I'm eating food. All kinds. There is no forbidden group. There's only one rule and it's pretty flexible. 

To give you an example, last week, I ate: curried split pea soup, kabocha squash curry, veggie bun with veggie imperial rolls, somen salad, chocolate chip cookies. I ate out twice, with friends. 

I'm happy. I'm healthy. I'm active. 

Am I losing weight? Well, I certainly was before TOM landed. 

What am I really searching for? Am I looking to be at a certain number? Or am I looking to enjoy a certain quality of life? Because right now I'm very satisfied with my diet and very satisfied with the amount of activity I'm getting. 

You better make sure you like whatever it is you're doing to lose weight because you're going to have to continue doing it permanently to keep the weight off. 

I'm done trying things that are blatantly unsustainable. For perhaps the first time ever, I'm doing something that is working for me, my body and my lifestyle. 

It IS possible for me to have one cookie in the evening and that's it. It IS possible for me to eat well most of the time, have a little fun and get back on track. 

MODERATION, people. It's a thing!!