[Trust but Verify]

I embarked on the diet 2.5 years ago. I have only allowed myself a 5 lb 'slush'. If I gain as much as 5 lbs, it's time for me to STOP and get back on the right track. I have been extremely successful with this strategery. I expect that will continue. But thanks for your positive input.

[glory]

aahh..then you must be past child bearing age(or not there yet) and probably not an emotional eater either. I gained weight back when I had an infertility problem, between the medications(which are notorious for putting on weight) and the depression it piled on. The reasoning you are using only worked during the "good times" for this emotional eater. But best of luck to you. Isn't something small like 15% keep the weight off? You may very well be one of the 15%.