I have no advice/help/funny anecdotes on the writing side, because it is clear that you and I have very different coping and producing styles. I can only write in two ways, short of the cuff pieces that come to me all in a rush when some comment or idea captures my wayward imagination, or college-student style - I have an assignment, a due date, I do my research in a desultory way, and write it up in a procrastinatory caffeine-fueled haze the night before it is due.

Editing? What's that? Improves stories you say? How interesting. I'll have to try it some time.

Mostly I just wanted to check in and say that your progress and stick-to-it-iveness in the dieting is impressive and deserves major kudos!