Well, it's that time of year again! You know? The weather is getting nice, the bulky sweaters are coming off, and you slowly start to realize there's a little bit more of you than there was before.

You don't want to say it, that dreaded "D" word you've been avoiding ever since the dining hall introduced cupcakes every Wednesday: diet. It's time to switch out Easy Macs for low-fat yogurts, and cupcakes for quinoa. Those ten to fifteen pounds need to run off...run off...crap, it's probably time to go on a run.

1. When the realization of all your poor eating habits hits you.

Alright, too many late night snacks...and morning snacks...and afternoon snacks...and, snacks...

2. The exploding feeling of determination to get started aka try every health fad the internet has to offer.

I got this! I'm going to be super healthy and it's going to be awesome! I love salad!

3. Day 1: everything is an accomplishment.

I ate GRILLED chicken for lunch and then went on a run and only felt like throwing up twice! This is going to be easy as pie! Oh no, pie.

4. A few days in of doing well--here comes the misplaced confidence.

I've been at this for a week and I'm killing it. Whole wheat wrap please. Do I want fries with that? I do, but, well, it is whole wheat...

5. Oh, the weekend denial.

Tequila sunrises have juice in them, and juice comes from fruit, and fruit is healthy. Therefore, this tequila sunrise is healthy. I'm a genius...or I'm lying to myself. Oh whatever, calories don't count on the weekends.

6. Now for the forgetfulness followed by exceeding amounts of forgiveness.

Okay, the weekend was crappy, but I'm going to be super good today! Oh crap, I forgot about the pancakes I had this morning. My whole day is pretty much shot, isn't it? Yeah, I'll just try again tomorrow.

7. And then...you crack.

I CAN'T DO IT ANYMORE! IT'S TOO HARD AND I'M TOO HUNGRY! I'M NOT A VEGETARIAN OR A RABBIT OR A COW! Ooooooh cow--cows make cheese, and meat, and oh my god I need a bacon cheeseburger right now. WITH fries.

8. Finally, acceptance.

You know what? I don't need to diet. This doughnut tastes so much better than my bikini looks. Plus, high-wasted is in! I'll just go to the gym more...or take a nap. Oh, a nap sounds so good.

9. Repeat.

It doesn't always work out, especially when you're only trying to lose a little bit of weight. Diets take commitment, and while we're all in a serious relationship with Ben and Jerry, there are plenty of fro-yo places out there to make you feel just a bit better. There's never a bad time to hit the gym or go for a run or pass up on a side of fries for a side salad. Hey, if Beyoncé can love kale, so can you, right?