Weight loss is definitely a mainstay of conversation in North America. I get all Richard Simmons' status updates on Facebook. Biggest Loser, of course, is the reality hit that showcases people's competition to finally lose the weight they've known for years they needed to.

Recently, the issue has become more personal. Twenty years ago, I was 133 lbs; now I'm 180. After decades of eating whatever I wanted, as much as I wanted, whenever I wanted...I'm deciding to be cautious and moderate.

At six feet tall, my 180 lb weight is by no means a problem. I could probably put on another 20 lbs before being "fat". However, my jeans are tight and only one of my three belts fits now; I've grown out to a size 34.

The real problem is the loss of control. When I exercise a couple more times a week and eat less, my weight doesn't plummet five pounds like it used to. Losing five pounds in two days used to be easy; in fact, if I didn't eat good meals for a day, losing happened automatically. Now, it's opposite: gaining is the rule, unless I do something about it.

After decades of being bulletproof, I'm facing the fact that I, too, can become fat. I habitually exercise, so I'm not in the danger I might be otherwise. However, to stay at the weight I am will take self control from now on. Losing weight - and I'd like to lose about ten pounds, so all of my jeans and belts will fit again - will take patience and work.

Here's Jillian - my second drawing of her. Weight control is a lifestyle; to fitness coaches, weight is the enemy. I need to learn from other people's mistakes in this regard - or else I'll make the same ones.

I'll keep you posted.