Hi Wilderness,
Sorry I haven't been around. It is really tough to get to the boards on the weekend. I work cadre, so it work/sleep all weekend. It looks like you are doing a great job. 6 pounds is nothing to sneeze at. As far as water is concerned, you can try the bottled Crystal light or Ice. Both are sweetened with Splenda and available at costco. I love Diet Rite, but was substituting too much for my water. Now, I have to drink 2 liters water before I can drink my Diet Rite.
You'll figure out what works for you.
Congrats,
Beth