Yes - the hot water helps arthritis - it may be wise for me to wait and join a gym with a sauna too. Perhaps in the fall as the spring weather is on the way and I'll be able to walk 3 to 4 miles a day once the cold weather goes away and my arthritis eases up. The weight issue really has me knowing I need to lose as much as possible even if I'm a little thin as every extra pound is too much with the pain. I'll get in my tub before work tonight too - it helped --- I live in an apartment and don't even own a house so buying a hot tub may be a ways away at least I'm going to have to afford a house first! Anyway the diet is going well. I am so glad I've lost over 20 pounds over the winter when most people I know have gained weight during the indoor season here in New England. The weight has plateaued but I lost a little so I can't complain and I'm not hungry for certain, so I know I'm doing well considering I'm not getting any real exercise in. Thanks for the comment sararay and the support! It's always good to hear from you! :)