This morning, I decided to step on the scales for an "unofficial" weigh in. I was shocked, in a good way.

In less than 10 days, I'd lost 11 pounds - enough to exceed my 100% goal - for the 28-day challenge. That's exciting, and it's scary. Sure the scale reads that I'm 11 pounds down, but what happens in the next 19 days?

I have a long weekend vacation planned with friends, and I have a couple of social engagements on the calendar between now and the official weigh in on Aug. 19.

My weight fluxuates quite a bit, and it would be easier than anything for me to find myself right back where I started (or even a few pounds heavier) when this DietBet began. That's why I'm going to stick to these 5 rules for staying on track and making sure I win BIG with Heidi & Chris.

1 - MONITOR AND MEASURE: The biggest key to my success has been tracking my food. More importantly, I look at serving size and measure to make sure I'm actually eating only a quarter cup of granola or other foods I typically just pour from a package.

2 - CHOOSE THE RIGHT CRUNCH: I've always loved vegetables, but I like a crunchy, salty snack even more. It's crucial I keep snap peas and carrots and cauliflower readily available for late-night cravings. Adding a couple tablespoons of hummus can make it feel more like a treat.

3 - KEEP MOVING: I use a FitBit to track my steps, but getting even 15K a day hasn't been enough for me. I've added tennis (a new sport for me) and returned to weight lifting at the gym. It's important to mix it up. I have a goal of doing double workouts 3 days a week, in addition to my 15K steps.

4 - FIND SUPPORT: During days out of town and at social events, I'm employing a buddy system to help keep myself accountable. And when it comes to counting calories, I pull out my app for every vodka/soda or beer I choose to have ... it keeps my calories under my daily allowance.

5 - CUT ME SOME SLACK: I am bound to have a slip-up, but I don't want this to be a temporary lifestyle change. This isn't about winning a little bit of money in 28 days and putting the weight back on ... I want to make sure I'm making smart choices for the long haul. That means getting up and dusting myself off if I do have a slip-up and returning to my regularly scheduled life.