Hi Chris - I am here to commiserate with you as well. Ben is now 10, but when he was around 5 he was over-suppressed and the weight problem began and has never gone away. Most people just think he is big-boned and not overweight, but I like Lynn feel for him when he puts on a bathing suit. It is all around his tummy area basically. Fortunately, he really likes salads and fruit, BUT he loves his sweets too. Problem here is his 14 year old sister (with whom he weighs exactly the same mind you!) who eats like a horse, all fat and sugar and she is as skinny as a bean pole. He is always asking me how come he is "fat" and she is sooo skinny when she eats like a pig!?! I try to explain "metabolism" and how it is easier for some people. I always let him have a treat, I just have to watch over him and make sure it is just one or two cookies and not 10! He gets so out of control if I am not standing over him watching like a hawk. I totally understand what you mean when you say you don’t want him to resort to sneaking food. Perhaps you could allow him ONE small treat every day if he eats 2 veggie and 2 fruit servings a day first? Tell him that if he gives his body most of the vit/minerals he needs daily, then and only then, can he have a treat. Just make sure it is a small one and tell him that anything more than that is exceptions only. This attitude has helped us a little - I  emphasize being "healthy" rather than the weight issue. I really can’t give any better advice since we are in the same boat here. Good Luck and let us know how the vaca goes. Hope it turns out better than you are anticipating.

ValerieD