This week is setting up to be a tough one.

Hurdle #1: I'm trying to mentally prepare myself for the scale result next week. Even though it's technically week 3, the first week's results were so dismal that it feela like week 2. Yes, I'm a Biggest Loser junkie, and therefore preparing myself that week 2's results will be less than stellar, at least as far as numbers go. I also know the fact that I've started weight training and swimming will make a difference, as that will build muscle which can affect the scale.

So, mental prep #1: It's not just about the numbers. I know that if I do my best, I can look back and feel successful about the week, regardless of the number.

Hurdle #2: It's getting to be that time of the month. Oh yes, this is the week that it normally hits hardest. The sweets cravings. The moodiness. The sleep issues which make the first and second even harder to deal with. Not to mention the bloating, which can add 2+ pounds to the scale.

Mental Prep #2: You do not need chocolate or sweets. You CAN do it.

Hurdle #3: Family reunion. Oh my, the family reunion, the exhibition of where all my bad eating habits have come from. For breakfasts there will be eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy galore! Friday's dinner will be a fish fry complete with hushpuppies and french fries, and the assorted mayo laden salads that other family members bring. Saturday's dinner is hot dogs and more mayo laden salads. Sunday's lunch rounds out the weekend with ribs and fried chicken, and you guessed - more mayo salads. Oh we can't forget dessert. Each meal will not have one or two desserts but an entire dessert table. That glorious beacon of cakes, cookies, brownies and pies. And will be left sitting out for nibbling all the day long.

Mental Prep #3: Prepare. That's all I can do is prepare. Mentally walking through the days and the food choices I will make. I am also planning to take food with. I will make some side dishes which are mayo free. We will also have a fridge in our cabin, so I will be brining healthy foods, not for me only, but my girls as well. I want healthy snacks available for them, not the cookies, brownies and other treats we consumed in a free-for-all as children.

I can do this. I can do this. I can do this. I can make this week successful.