Started the pills.....and grumpy! Attitude goes along way and I seem to have been at odds with myself all day and as a result, nothing has gone right. Bruce is amazed, my colleagues are amused and the children openly laughing as I have had my first not perfect day at work. I made stupid mistakes and should have been able to do far more than I did without asking for help.
Then I got home and started a risotto with roast chicken for the children (they had friends too). Softened onion, red peppers and mini leeks in olive oil and poured in the rice. Thought it smelt a bit odd before realising that I'd used pudding rice instead of arborio. Now I know you can make rice pud with arborio but not so sure about the other way round. Rather than risk the only veg I had, I picked it all out into another pan and started again. Not happy, especially when I had to pick out a small spoonful before putting in all the lovely, melting mature cheddar. Anyway, it went down well enough (I had salmon - delicious).
To make my day worse, my lovely friend on the liquid diet has lost another 6lbs in the past week and has now lost 3st 4lb in 9 weeks. I want that diet!!! I am sure I couldn't stick with the very harsh regime and the no solid food rule, but, possibly having seen her morph into this gorgeous being (she was before, just bigger) I could be pursuaded...if I had the money. I do admire her resilience and her stamina.
Anyway, diet good. Mood bad. Tomorrow is another day. Going to bed early with "Cutting For Stone" - one of the best books I've read in ages.
E xx
Thursday 4 March 2010
Tuesday 2 March 2010
Progress - kind of!
14st 7lb. So that's 5lb off in a week. Fantastic. I'm now back to the weight I was in, ooooh, I can't be bothered to look but I suspect November! Anyway, back on the road. Went to the docs today - when I rang to see if I could have a repeat prescription, they suggested that maybe a two year gap was a bit long so I had to go in. He was great and agreed with my admission that I am just not making progress, as I have NO self discipline. I need a kick start.
On Saturday night, I went to hear an Irish band in the village hall (there were two of them - one from Darlington and the other from Doncaster!) and sat next to a lovely friend who I haven't seen since Christmas. OH MY GOD! She looked stunning. She's a strikingly attractive woman anyway but she looked fantastic. Glowing, healthy skin. Finely honed cheekbones. Massive smile. She says she feels utterly brilliant for the first time in years (her husband seemed to think she was a bit of a sex pot as well - VERY attentive!). She has lost 3 stone in 7 weeks. She hasn't had solid food in the whole time and can't have any for another few weeks yet. She's doing the LighterLife diet which is liquid only (judging by her healthy looks, it must be vitamin enhanced). It is an investment (it's expensive) but, if you can afford it and it changes your life, it must be worth it. I suppose you are meant to be so delighted with the new you that introducing food again means you'll do it sensibly to maintain the new you. However, I can remember how I felt when I had lost weight 5 years ago and how I vowed never to put it back on but the lure of the "naughties" beat my resolve. It's a trial. It's tempting to say that "it's not natural", "a quick fix", "not teaching you good habits" - but looking at her lovely smiling happy face and you would find it hard to criticise.
Oh, and when I said that if I could afford it, I would be tempted to give it a try, she replied that I couldn't because you had to be obese and have at least 5 stone to lose, so I wouldn't qualify. Hah, I've always suspected I look thinner than I am!!! I could lose 5 stone obviously and still be in a "healthy" weight - I would look ill but be clinically healthy!
So, on with the pills. Cheating in theory I know but they don't actually magically make you lose weight, just stop you being able to eat fat ie cut out temptation.
Bruce has started lambing so can't take Lucy in the mornings - walking is my responsibility for a while. Good. My fitness is rock bottom (and sadly, my bottom isn't like rock).
E xx
On Saturday night, I went to hear an Irish band in the village hall (there were two of them - one from Darlington and the other from Doncaster!) and sat next to a lovely friend who I haven't seen since Christmas. OH MY GOD! She looked stunning. She's a strikingly attractive woman anyway but she looked fantastic. Glowing, healthy skin. Finely honed cheekbones. Massive smile. She says she feels utterly brilliant for the first time in years (her husband seemed to think she was a bit of a sex pot as well - VERY attentive!). She has lost 3 stone in 7 weeks. She hasn't had solid food in the whole time and can't have any for another few weeks yet. She's doing the LighterLife diet which is liquid only (judging by her healthy looks, it must be vitamin enhanced). It is an investment (it's expensive) but, if you can afford it and it changes your life, it must be worth it. I suppose you are meant to be so delighted with the new you that introducing food again means you'll do it sensibly to maintain the new you. However, I can remember how I felt when I had lost weight 5 years ago and how I vowed never to put it back on but the lure of the "naughties" beat my resolve. It's a trial. It's tempting to say that "it's not natural", "a quick fix", "not teaching you good habits" - but looking at her lovely smiling happy face and you would find it hard to criticise.
Oh, and when I said that if I could afford it, I would be tempted to give it a try, she replied that I couldn't because you had to be obese and have at least 5 stone to lose, so I wouldn't qualify. Hah, I've always suspected I look thinner than I am!!! I could lose 5 stone obviously and still be in a "healthy" weight - I would look ill but be clinically healthy!
So, on with the pills. Cheating in theory I know but they don't actually magically make you lose weight, just stop you being able to eat fat ie cut out temptation.
Bruce has started lambing so can't take Lucy in the mornings - walking is my responsibility for a while. Good. My fitness is rock bottom (and sadly, my bottom isn't like rock).
E xx
Wednesday 24 February 2010
I dropped off the wagon
Hi anyone who is still there! I am sorry not to have blogged for a while - for starters, my laptop decided to conk out and had to go off to the magic man to be mended. It came back last night - with 67 emails for me to catch up on!
Also, I have been so crap at dieting for so long now that I thought you couldn't possibly still be with me!
So, last time I blogged, I was jogging at 6.45am. Was I ill? Had I taken metabolic rate boosting tablets/drunk Red Bull/taken speed? No, none of those. Sadly, my massive energy boost died after 7 days (which, for me, was impressive). However, back to positivity now - more later. That was a good week, culminating in going to Sheffield to stay with friend from school days. You would not believe the things I did which were totally out of character. I arrived on Friday night, having driven straight from work without incident (but not without customary sweeties, latte, crisps, etc on the journey - friend had mentioned being on a diet too so I think I was afraid I was to be starved!). Anyway, I parked the car and was whizzed off without even going into the house.....to the Health Club. Panic not. It was for a charity fund raiser for Water Aid as my friend and her gym bunnies are rowing across the Atlantic in tandem with a local father and son team who are doing it for real. By the end of the evening, I was standing in front of a group of people I had never met, singing an improvised version of "Row, row, row your boat" with words of support for the rowing team. Embarrassed? You bet! Anyway, we won! (a bottle of champagne that my friend had donated).
Having stayed up too late drinking too much red wine, I was surprised to find myself in a swimming pool doing lengths by 8.45am on Saturday morning. I swam up and down in the slow lane going clockwise. After a few lengths of irritatingly (and surprisingly) catching up with the people in front (it was an over-80's group....kidding!) I decided to be brave and dip under the ropes into the medium lane. After four lengths of getting increasingly frustrated at the arrogant woman who refused to move out of the way each time she met me ("alright, I'll swim round you if I must!) I realised that you go anti-clockwise in the middle lane. Choking with amusement (and exhaustion at having to keep up the pace) I apologised profusely as we passed. After 30 lengths (1/2 mile) I went for a well earned steam room relax. Silence as I walked in. Fairly full. Very hot. The clash of abundant flesh onto wet, warm marble, gave out the loudest, fartiest noise you could not replicate if you wanted to prove it wasn't actually a bodily function. I did the expected "oops, sorry, wet seat" and collapsed in humiliated giggles in the corner. Christ, I was supposed to be still in bed!
By the time we got back to the house at midday, I was ready for a sleep - so much exercise, so little fitness! We laughed, gossipped and generally had a totally revitalising, fun weekend. Thanks Gigi.
When I got back I was still keen to run each morning - until the Wednesday when I couldn't face getting up and going out in the cold. It's gone by the wayside.
So, to date. I'm afraid I decided that I am not doing this diet thing very well (to put it mildly) and am creeping the weight back on (or piling might be more apt). On Sunday morning I was 14st 12lb. BIG whoops. I go into hospital next month for my foam filler op and am going to be severely told off. So, I must confess, I have resorted to my fat pills. Confession. I'm back on the Orlistat (or at least I hope to continue as I only have enough for one week so hopefully the doc will re prescribe). If I take them, I have to behave. I can eat no fat. I could eat sugar without unpleasant side effects but I'm not going to. So far, 3 days without problems and without a single naughty bit of food.
Time to get this show on the road. Again. For real. Cheating a bit I feel, but essential.
Back on the blog. Let me know how you're doing.
Love
Exx
Also, I have been so crap at dieting for so long now that I thought you couldn't possibly still be with me!
So, last time I blogged, I was jogging at 6.45am. Was I ill? Had I taken metabolic rate boosting tablets/drunk Red Bull/taken speed? No, none of those. Sadly, my massive energy boost died after 7 days (which, for me, was impressive). However, back to positivity now - more later. That was a good week, culminating in going to Sheffield to stay with friend from school days. You would not believe the things I did which were totally out of character. I arrived on Friday night, having driven straight from work without incident (but not without customary sweeties, latte, crisps, etc on the journey - friend had mentioned being on a diet too so I think I was afraid I was to be starved!). Anyway, I parked the car and was whizzed off without even going into the house.....to the Health Club. Panic not. It was for a charity fund raiser for Water Aid as my friend and her gym bunnies are rowing across the Atlantic in tandem with a local father and son team who are doing it for real. By the end of the evening, I was standing in front of a group of people I had never met, singing an improvised version of "Row, row, row your boat" with words of support for the rowing team. Embarrassed? You bet! Anyway, we won! (a bottle of champagne that my friend had donated).
Having stayed up too late drinking too much red wine, I was surprised to find myself in a swimming pool doing lengths by 8.45am on Saturday morning. I swam up and down in the slow lane going clockwise. After a few lengths of irritatingly (and surprisingly) catching up with the people in front (it was an over-80's group....kidding!) I decided to be brave and dip under the ropes into the medium lane. After four lengths of getting increasingly frustrated at the arrogant woman who refused to move out of the way each time she met me ("alright, I'll swim round you if I must!) I realised that you go anti-clockwise in the middle lane. Choking with amusement (and exhaustion at having to keep up the pace) I apologised profusely as we passed. After 30 lengths (1/2 mile) I went for a well earned steam room relax. Silence as I walked in. Fairly full. Very hot. The clash of abundant flesh onto wet, warm marble, gave out the loudest, fartiest noise you could not replicate if you wanted to prove it wasn't actually a bodily function. I did the expected "oops, sorry, wet seat" and collapsed in humiliated giggles in the corner. Christ, I was supposed to be still in bed!
By the time we got back to the house at midday, I was ready for a sleep - so much exercise, so little fitness! We laughed, gossipped and generally had a totally revitalising, fun weekend. Thanks Gigi.
When I got back I was still keen to run each morning - until the Wednesday when I couldn't face getting up and going out in the cold. It's gone by the wayside.
So, to date. I'm afraid I decided that I am not doing this diet thing very well (to put it mildly) and am creeping the weight back on (or piling might be more apt). On Sunday morning I was 14st 12lb. BIG whoops. I go into hospital next month for my foam filler op and am going to be severely told off. So, I must confess, I have resorted to my fat pills. Confession. I'm back on the Orlistat (or at least I hope to continue as I only have enough for one week so hopefully the doc will re prescribe). If I take them, I have to behave. I can eat no fat. I could eat sugar without unpleasant side effects but I'm not going to. So far, 3 days without problems and without a single naughty bit of food.
Time to get this show on the road. Again. For real. Cheating a bit I feel, but essential.
Back on the blog. Let me know how you're doing.
Love
Exx
Thursday 4 February 2010
HaHa...the pedometer is dodgy!
Speedy blog as I am absolutely knackered.
I just wanted to let you know that I went on my little run this morning (I think over a third is jogged now) with the pedometer and it showed 0.91 miles - I knew it!!! It needs to be carefully placed and in my haze yesterday, it obviously wasn't put on the right bit of my waistband. I shall now try tomorrow and see what it says.
I have had a really busy day at work, viewing lovely properties with some lovely people (I am so lovely at the mo, aren't I?!) but its exhausting smiling, chatting encouragingly and being enthusiastic. I had the usual breakfast and then made a batch of carrot & coriander soup for working lunch (with 3 dates). We all had a pork chop with lots of veggies for supper.
Continuing on the right track.
E xx
I just wanted to let you know that I went on my little run this morning (I think over a third is jogged now) with the pedometer and it showed 0.91 miles - I knew it!!! It needs to be carefully placed and in my haze yesterday, it obviously wasn't put on the right bit of my waistband. I shall now try tomorrow and see what it says.
I have had a really busy day at work, viewing lovely properties with some lovely people (I am so lovely at the mo, aren't I?!) but its exhausting smiling, chatting encouragingly and being enthusiastic. I had the usual breakfast and then made a batch of carrot & coriander soup for working lunch (with 3 dates). We all had a pork chop with lots of veggies for supper.
Continuing on the right track.
E xx
Wednesday 3 February 2010
just had to post!
I am such an annoyingly positive, happy person (I'm not sure who I am annoying, but it must get someone!). It is so out of character for me - all this routine, planning, positivity - it surely must end soon. Today I was so busy at work, utterly engrossed and pre-occupied, that I forgot lunch - repeat, forgot lunch! It doesn't happen to me. I ended up eating a pear en route to meet a client. By the time I got home I was famished and could have eaten a horse (or Mum's fat pup) but I made a rocket (yes, I'm using it up!), avocado and prawn salad with a piece of brown bread (no butter).
I got up again this morning and went out for my run/walk with fat Polly. I took my pedometer which hasn't left the bathroom shelf for many months. I worked on the principle that 15/20 minutes of speedy run-walking, must warrant at least a mile. I got back in and excitedly checked the dial - 0.41 miles - what!! I am sure it's wrong and will test again tomorrow. The best thing about this little exercise spurt, is that if I feel like I am about to nick something tasty, I question what is the point of forcing myself up in the morning to go out in the cold, dark morning if I am then going to eat more naughty calories than I could possibly have burned. However, the distance thing set me thinking that, in actual fact, it doesn't really matter how far it is, the important thing is that I come back in feeling great - alive and ready for action. My skin is glowing - amazing, isn't it, what you can achieve in 3 days - I should bottle and sell it! So, if the distance run doesn't matter, does the same principle apply to the scales? Surely it does. If my waistband is less tight, top of my trouser leg looser and chins less wattle-like, does it matter what I actually weigh? I would say not. I appreciate that from a health/BMI point of view, actual weight is important, but in reality, a good body shape and healthy size (a 14 in my case would be nice) then that, to me, is most crucial.
However, I will weigh myself on Monday - but hope not to be demoralised.
Still positive!
E xx
I got up again this morning and went out for my run/walk with fat Polly. I took my pedometer which hasn't left the bathroom shelf for many months. I worked on the principle that 15/20 minutes of speedy run-walking, must warrant at least a mile. I got back in and excitedly checked the dial - 0.41 miles - what!! I am sure it's wrong and will test again tomorrow. The best thing about this little exercise spurt, is that if I feel like I am about to nick something tasty, I question what is the point of forcing myself up in the morning to go out in the cold, dark morning if I am then going to eat more naughty calories than I could possibly have burned. However, the distance thing set me thinking that, in actual fact, it doesn't really matter how far it is, the important thing is that I come back in feeling great - alive and ready for action. My skin is glowing - amazing, isn't it, what you can achieve in 3 days - I should bottle and sell it! So, if the distance run doesn't matter, does the same principle apply to the scales? Surely it does. If my waistband is less tight, top of my trouser leg looser and chins less wattle-like, does it matter what I actually weigh? I would say not. I appreciate that from a health/BMI point of view, actual weight is important, but in reality, a good body shape and healthy size (a 14 in my case would be nice) then that, to me, is most crucial.
However, I will weigh myself on Monday - but hope not to be demoralised.
Still positive!
E xx
Tuesday 2 February 2010
Crikey, it's been a week!
However, quite a good week and getting better.
I am now working full time in the same job and enjoying the strange sensation of being "normal". I woke up on Saturday morning, pottered round sorting washing and then set off to Northallerton for an optician's appointment. I have ordered a pair of glasses which look quite nice - or at least until I get them back with lenses in and I hate them, like I have every other pair I've ever owned. My youngest wears specs and really suits them - and really loves them too, which is good. I have never liked them but feel the need for a safety net if ever I can't wear my lenses. After the opticians, I went to Homebase and bought paint for the kitchen. In October, our boiler was removed from the wall in the kitchen, leaving an area of bare plaster. I don't know what it is other than familiarity, but, when it was first removed, I was horrified at the mess. A couple of months of inertia later and, to be honest, I didn't even notice it. Anyway, on Saturday I decided to get it sorted. I got home (in sunny weather) and washed the car for the first time in over a year and then painted most of the kitchen. It looks great and I felt knackered but satisfied.
Doesn't the above sound comfortingly mundane? Yes. It is. I am a normal working person with a routine. I love it.
Anyway, diet. Still not facing the scales but.....I will by Monday next. I have taken myself in hand. I have mother's overweight dog staying for a fortnight and his nibs won't take a stunted rotweiller-look a like on the farm. As I am out all day, I have to take her out before work. So I have been getting up at 6.45am, pulling on my trackies and trainers and going for a run!!! Well, a kind of run/walk/run/walk. Just a quick 20 minutes round the fields and I come in, eat a healthy breakfast of homemade muesli with fruit and then do a few bits and pieces and set off out for the day. I take lunch to work (yesterday ratatouille, today a rocket, pear and prawn salad) and have a sensible supper (yesterday same salad as today's lunch, today salmon and cous cous). This fabulous routine has been in place for all of two days but, I am feeling buzzy and good in myself and hopeful....again! I feel so good all morning after going out early but I do hate getting out of bed in the first place - especially as it is starting to forecast a bit of snow again - it's bloody cold!
So, weight next Monday. I am off to see an old school friend (she's not old) for the weekend. I haven't seen her for a few years so there'll be lots of gossip and I suspect lots of wine on the menu. She has just informed me we are booked into the gym first thing Saturday morning so good start. Really looking forward to it.
Positive thinking.
E xx
I am now working full time in the same job and enjoying the strange sensation of being "normal". I woke up on Saturday morning, pottered round sorting washing and then set off to Northallerton for an optician's appointment. I have ordered a pair of glasses which look quite nice - or at least until I get them back with lenses in and I hate them, like I have every other pair I've ever owned. My youngest wears specs and really suits them - and really loves them too, which is good. I have never liked them but feel the need for a safety net if ever I can't wear my lenses. After the opticians, I went to Homebase and bought paint for the kitchen. In October, our boiler was removed from the wall in the kitchen, leaving an area of bare plaster. I don't know what it is other than familiarity, but, when it was first removed, I was horrified at the mess. A couple of months of inertia later and, to be honest, I didn't even notice it. Anyway, on Saturday I decided to get it sorted. I got home (in sunny weather) and washed the car for the first time in over a year and then painted most of the kitchen. It looks great and I felt knackered but satisfied.
Doesn't the above sound comfortingly mundane? Yes. It is. I am a normal working person with a routine. I love it.
Anyway, diet. Still not facing the scales but.....I will by Monday next. I have taken myself in hand. I have mother's overweight dog staying for a fortnight and his nibs won't take a stunted rotweiller-look a like on the farm. As I am out all day, I have to take her out before work. So I have been getting up at 6.45am, pulling on my trackies and trainers and going for a run!!! Well, a kind of run/walk/run/walk. Just a quick 20 minutes round the fields and I come in, eat a healthy breakfast of homemade muesli with fruit and then do a few bits and pieces and set off out for the day. I take lunch to work (yesterday ratatouille, today a rocket, pear and prawn salad) and have a sensible supper (yesterday same salad as today's lunch, today salmon and cous cous). This fabulous routine has been in place for all of two days but, I am feeling buzzy and good in myself and hopeful....again! I feel so good all morning after going out early but I do hate getting out of bed in the first place - especially as it is starting to forecast a bit of snow again - it's bloody cold!
So, weight next Monday. I am off to see an old school friend (she's not old) for the weekend. I haven't seen her for a few years so there'll be lots of gossip and I suspect lots of wine on the menu. She has just informed me we are booked into the gym first thing Saturday morning so good start. Really looking forward to it.
Positive thinking.
E xx
Wednesday 27 January 2010
stress and diets don't mix
Well, it was my first day as a full timer and it felt rather strange, but nicely so, to think that I am now a "normal" person for the first time in years - going off to work to the same place every morning, working for someone else and, most importantly, I will be earning a wage on a regular basis. I am really excited about this new chapter.
Anyway, I got off to a great start and had a stimulating, interesting and informative day. On the diet front (which I am sure is going to be good) I had porridge (the usual - made with water, mixed seeds and brown sugar added at the end but today I sweetened with 2 chopped up dates instead) for breakfast, a really unpleasant Weight Watchers pasta bake for lunch (rushing out of house without having made soup) and there was a chicken ready in the "on timer" oven when I got in from work. The children had peeled veg and got them started so, within 1/2 hour of walking in the door, we were all around the table with a roast dinner and a happy, chatty mood. I had a pear for pudding. All going well.
Then came a challenging telephone conversation, the details of which are irrelevant but, suffice to say, I came off the phone feeling a level of stress and frustration that has been unfamiliar of late. I immediately felt the urge to eat sugar - if there had been a box of chocs left from Christmas, I would have devoured them at one sitting. As it was, I had a slice of toast with a thin slither of butter and a sprinkle of sugar. WHAT!!! I know. What is it about misery/stress/anger that makes me reach for sweetness? There must be a reason. Not just psychological. It's physical need. Is it chemical? Why don't I feel the urge to punch something instead (a legitimate punchbag, not a partner or the dog!). I don't know but my conclusion is that one slice of toast isn't the end of the world, just avoid stressful phone calls in future!
So, tidy clothes and a positive smile again tomorrow! I love my job!!!
E xx
PS Well aware that there is a little batch of numbers missing from the top left hand corner of this blog - will dust down the scales soon but I know by my waist band, that it's not good enough to face the scales yet
Anyway, I got off to a great start and had a stimulating, interesting and informative day. On the diet front (which I am sure is going to be good) I had porridge (the usual - made with water, mixed seeds and brown sugar added at the end but today I sweetened with 2 chopped up dates instead) for breakfast, a really unpleasant Weight Watchers pasta bake for lunch (rushing out of house without having made soup) and there was a chicken ready in the "on timer" oven when I got in from work. The children had peeled veg and got them started so, within 1/2 hour of walking in the door, we were all around the table with a roast dinner and a happy, chatty mood. I had a pear for pudding. All going well.
Then came a challenging telephone conversation, the details of which are irrelevant but, suffice to say, I came off the phone feeling a level of stress and frustration that has been unfamiliar of late. I immediately felt the urge to eat sugar - if there had been a box of chocs left from Christmas, I would have devoured them at one sitting. As it was, I had a slice of toast with a thin slither of butter and a sprinkle of sugar. WHAT!!! I know. What is it about misery/stress/anger that makes me reach for sweetness? There must be a reason. Not just psychological. It's physical need. Is it chemical? Why don't I feel the urge to punch something instead (a legitimate punchbag, not a partner or the dog!). I don't know but my conclusion is that one slice of toast isn't the end of the world, just avoid stressful phone calls in future!
So, tidy clothes and a positive smile again tomorrow! I love my job!!!
E xx
PS Well aware that there is a little batch of numbers missing from the top left hand corner of this blog - will dust down the scales soon but I know by my waist band, that it's not good enough to face the scales yet
Tuesday 26 January 2010
last day as a cook
So, my time as the cook at the Auction Mart is over. I feel quite sad as I have really enjoyed it and will miss many aspects of it. As Sally, a commenter on this blog, said yesterday - "you can't take the caterer out of the girl"- I would agree. I am born to nurture and feed. I have said on many occasions, I love to gather people together and stuff them full of gorgeous, comforting food. However, I do think I am going to enjoy cooking again and hopefully, have a mess with a few recipes and styles. When I have had a day cooking at work, I don't feel like turning to and producing something beautiful for the family supper. I am hoping this is going to change - at least at weekends, if I have time between washing, ironing, cleaning etc - how do people work fulltime and run a house and family? Fun times ahead!
I am so tired my eyes are struggling to stay open. I was going to debate diet pills and their damage but I can't stay awake long enough. Suffice to say, we need a healthy balanced diet without the addition of chemicals, additives and other such unnatural things - keep off them and try harder.
The Davina DVD was great - I managed 11 minutes before collapsing in a chair exhausted - and 7 minutes of that time was the warm up!!! Improvements to fitness are urgently needed. My body is sad (my dog is sad as well and not understanding this lack of walking boots and coat - much neglected pup).
See you tomorrow.
E xx
I am so tired my eyes are struggling to stay open. I was going to debate diet pills and their damage but I can't stay awake long enough. Suffice to say, we need a healthy balanced diet without the addition of chemicals, additives and other such unnatural things - keep off them and try harder.
The Davina DVD was great - I managed 11 minutes before collapsing in a chair exhausted - and 7 minutes of that time was the warm up!!! Improvements to fitness are urgently needed. My body is sad (my dog is sad as well and not understanding this lack of walking boots and coat - much neglected pup).
See you tomorrow.
E xx
Sunday 24 January 2010
A guilty pleasure
I contemplated today whether there can be such a thing as a guilty pleasure. A sneaky glass of Baileys/handful of chocolates/bowl of cereal, etc. I don't think it can be a pleasure if it's guilty. You don't enjoy it. I really do have a problem with eating - it is very rarely a good experience as I know that I shouldn't be eating the food I'm eating. I am without discipline and self control. I keep thinking that I will be fine once I get to my new job full time (I only have this week to go at the Auction) but it shouldn't take that kind of change to spur me on my way.
The scales are in the cupboard getting dusty. I can't face them as I know it's bad news. However, today I went to the Metro Centre with a group of 13 year olds for my daughter's birthday and, you won't believe this but, I bought an exercise DVD!!!! I stood infront of the shelf in W H Smiths contemplating which of the unfeasible looking routines would suit me - my daughters thought that a Ministry of Sound dance based one would be good but I am 44 and must be realistic. I thought about Hannah Waterman's top seller but, to be honest, although obviously she looks slim, there is something a little spooky about how she looks - it's the long thin neck. I also thought the girls might think it was a bit uncool. So, we have Davina. I am a little concerned that the sitting room is not large, I am and I like my china. Must not get carried away! Tomorrow I will get started and also plan a walk for the last time during working hours due to the fact that I start full time next week.
Last night I went out for dinner with my colleagues from work as my leaving do. It was such a good evening and I loved every minute. Although I am glad to be leaving catering, I am going to really miss the girls I work with - they have all been such a support to me, as well as being fun, full of gossip and good friends. I will miss them. The girls were all out when I got back from work so I treated myself to a long hot bath and actually took time to style my newly cut hair. Then I popped my head round Emily's bedroom door to see if she had some lens solution and spotted her makeup on the bed (very rare - its usually in her bag). It was a reverse of the little girl playing with Mummy's makeup - it was such fun to experiment with all her gorgeous glittery bright colours. I probably looked like a clown but I felt great and actually went out with a degree of confidence. The meal started well with the meal with a sea bass starter but then I had a wild mushroom, spinach and pinenut pasta dish - divine flavours. Very rich. Won't even think of the calories. At least I didn't have a pudding. It was all washed down with too much red wine and countless Baileys. My ample bosom was the focus of attention - it would appear that my colleagues (both male and female) only see me in an apron and seemed surprised at my very obvious decollete. There was much hilarity and teasing. No surprising that I had a thumping hangover and queasy stomach this morning. The Lord rewarded me for missing church in order to take daughter and friends shopping, by confining me in the car for one and a half hours with 4 over excited, raucous teenage girls. Wow, they can talk/shout/sing without hesitation....... interminably.
Suffice to say, I am ready for my bed. This IS going to be the week I start my new figure.......I don't expect you to believe me!
E xx
The scales are in the cupboard getting dusty. I can't face them as I know it's bad news. However, today I went to the Metro Centre with a group of 13 year olds for my daughter's birthday and, you won't believe this but, I bought an exercise DVD!!!! I stood infront of the shelf in W H Smiths contemplating which of the unfeasible looking routines would suit me - my daughters thought that a Ministry of Sound dance based one would be good but I am 44 and must be realistic. I thought about Hannah Waterman's top seller but, to be honest, although obviously she looks slim, there is something a little spooky about how she looks - it's the long thin neck. I also thought the girls might think it was a bit uncool. So, we have Davina. I am a little concerned that the sitting room is not large, I am and I like my china. Must not get carried away! Tomorrow I will get started and also plan a walk for the last time during working hours due to the fact that I start full time next week.
Last night I went out for dinner with my colleagues from work as my leaving do. It was such a good evening and I loved every minute. Although I am glad to be leaving catering, I am going to really miss the girls I work with - they have all been such a support to me, as well as being fun, full of gossip and good friends. I will miss them. The girls were all out when I got back from work so I treated myself to a long hot bath and actually took time to style my newly cut hair. Then I popped my head round Emily's bedroom door to see if she had some lens solution and spotted her makeup on the bed (very rare - its usually in her bag). It was a reverse of the little girl playing with Mummy's makeup - it was such fun to experiment with all her gorgeous glittery bright colours. I probably looked like a clown but I felt great and actually went out with a degree of confidence. The meal started well with the meal with a sea bass starter but then I had a wild mushroom, spinach and pinenut pasta dish - divine flavours. Very rich. Won't even think of the calories. At least I didn't have a pudding. It was all washed down with too much red wine and countless Baileys. My ample bosom was the focus of attention - it would appear that my colleagues (both male and female) only see me in an apron and seemed surprised at my very obvious decollete. There was much hilarity and teasing. No surprising that I had a thumping hangover and queasy stomach this morning. The Lord rewarded me for missing church in order to take daughter and friends shopping, by confining me in the car for one and a half hours with 4 over excited, raucous teenage girls. Wow, they can talk/shout/sing without hesitation....... interminably.
Suffice to say, I am ready for my bed. This IS going to be the week I start my new figure.......I don't expect you to believe me!
E xx
Wednesday 20 January 2010
100th blog
This is my 100th time of writing - wow! And so little weight loss!!! It makes me smile at my incredible inadequacy. However, I'm really positive about the potential for success with my new job. I am still part time which is frustrating as I want to get my teeth into the job (rather than the chip fryer contents) - my healthy breakfast/soup lunch/restrained supper is really working well and I am sure I will see results as soon as it is permanent.
I have a stinking cold and, if I were a nice mummy, would be feeling really guilty. You see, eldest daughter, Emily, has had one for about 3 weeks now and the only acknowledgement I have made of this fact, is to ask her not to snivvel and sneeze near me. Two days into this cold, I am a pathetic, woe is me, miserable bag of snivvel. However, on the plus side, it is significantly better than it was yesterday.
Anyway, I have the right shape for being healthy as I have a fat arse and big legs - apparently this protects against heart disease and is a healthy shape to be. It doesn't seem to take into account the joints and how much they struggle to support the excess podge.
Another little nugget of information gleaned this week suggests that we are getting fat due to setting the central heating too high in the cold weather. Now this does make sense. Apparently we get too comfortable and lazy settled on the sofa watching the tv instead of moving round to keep warm and burn off energy. This is certainly true of me in the past few weeks - I love the snow to look at but am none too keen to set off out in it. I will definitely struggle to exercise until the nights draw out as it is dark at both ends of the day.
Tomorrow I am going to have my hair cut - I can stand it no more and have decided to try my adorable niece's skills. I will let you know how I get on tomorrow. A new me. Again.
E xx
PS I hope it doesn't take another 100 posts to lose the next couple of stones!
I have a stinking cold and, if I were a nice mummy, would be feeling really guilty. You see, eldest daughter, Emily, has had one for about 3 weeks now and the only acknowledgement I have made of this fact, is to ask her not to snivvel and sneeze near me. Two days into this cold, I am a pathetic, woe is me, miserable bag of snivvel. However, on the plus side, it is significantly better than it was yesterday.
Anyway, I have the right shape for being healthy as I have a fat arse and big legs - apparently this protects against heart disease and is a healthy shape to be. It doesn't seem to take into account the joints and how much they struggle to support the excess podge.
Another little nugget of information gleaned this week suggests that we are getting fat due to setting the central heating too high in the cold weather. Now this does make sense. Apparently we get too comfortable and lazy settled on the sofa watching the tv instead of moving round to keep warm and burn off energy. This is certainly true of me in the past few weeks - I love the snow to look at but am none too keen to set off out in it. I will definitely struggle to exercise until the nights draw out as it is dark at both ends of the day.
Tomorrow I am going to have my hair cut - I can stand it no more and have decided to try my adorable niece's skills. I will let you know how I get on tomorrow. A new me. Again.
E xx
PS I hope it doesn't take another 100 posts to lose the next couple of stones!
Sunday 17 January 2010
Emotion
There must be so many people who feel like I do. I feel so emotional but so useless. I watch the news and well up, seeing such misery and pain. I am, of course, thinking of Haiti. I have just watched a young woman being gently eased out of the rubble after 5 days - can you imagine 5 days of such fear? Such inability to change your situation? My chest is tight with emotion. I want to do more but don't know what, especially considering my job, dependents etc. One day I hope I can find the physical and emotional strength to be properly useful in such a disaster - I just want to feed and comfort those poor people. What frustrates me most is that I am so ill informed that I didn't know the plight of Haitians, even before this horror.
I am never going to buy the Daily Mail again. In the past 4 days, the Haiti earthquake has never warranted being higher than page 8. Today, fuel bills, Leona Lewis, Prince William and others, have been given a higher billing. It is an awful truth to realise that is where the Mail thinks its readers priorities lie. Even if it does supply a steady stream of dieting materials, I can no longer support such inanities.
The coffee morning in the Village Hall was great. We were busy from start to finish and raised £750 which will go to Christian Aid's Appeal. It was good to see smiling faces, chatting eagerly having been confined to barracks by the weather for the past few weeks. As we expect in this lovely village, everyone rallied with generosity to help raise funds for a good cause.
The snow has gone except around the edges of the fields and on the tops. It is good to be able to walk with confidence and not teeter round looking like my Gran. Now I just need lighter nights and I can stop making excuses for my lack of exercise.
Tomorrow is my middle babe's 13th birthday - the curls are tamed with GHD's but the smile and Minstrel-coloured eyes are the same (if enhanced by occasional flicks of mascara). I want her to have a happy day. I wonder if the Emma Bridgewater Union Jack doorstop in the shape of a cockerel was a good idea..................
E xx
I am never going to buy the Daily Mail again. In the past 4 days, the Haiti earthquake has never warranted being higher than page 8. Today, fuel bills, Leona Lewis, Prince William and others, have been given a higher billing. It is an awful truth to realise that is where the Mail thinks its readers priorities lie. Even if it does supply a steady stream of dieting materials, I can no longer support such inanities.
The coffee morning in the Village Hall was great. We were busy from start to finish and raised £750 which will go to Christian Aid's Appeal. It was good to see smiling faces, chatting eagerly having been confined to barracks by the weather for the past few weeks. As we expect in this lovely village, everyone rallied with generosity to help raise funds for a good cause.
The snow has gone except around the edges of the fields and on the tops. It is good to be able to walk with confidence and not teeter round looking like my Gran. Now I just need lighter nights and I can stop making excuses for my lack of exercise.
Tomorrow is my middle babe's 13th birthday - the curls are tamed with GHD's but the smile and Minstrel-coloured eyes are the same (if enhanced by occasional flicks of mascara). I want her to have a happy day. I wonder if the Emma Bridgewater Union Jack doorstop in the shape of a cockerel was a good idea..................
E xx
Thursday 14 January 2010
Haiti - should I be worrying about my weight?
Looking at harrowing pictures of the devastation in Haiti, I feel a little shallow even contemplating my weight. However, just to bring you up to date (a bit briefly as busy - more in a minute) I have been really enjoying my new job and am finding food control easy so far. Yesterday I took a boiled egg, salad and banana.....and had indigestion all afternoon from the raw peppers (which I love but give me stomach ache) - well, at least, I think it was the peppers but it could be the fact that my waistband on my skirt is quite snug and I am sitting down all the time - I have a red wheal around my waist. Either an elastic waist or loss of an inch is called for. I left a chicken in the oven on timer for when I got in which worked well.
Today, I made some parsnip and celeriac soup BEFORE going to work which I had for lunch with an orange. Again, I set the timer for baked potatoes and a beef stew (made healthily) and had a yoghurt for pud. I am optimistic that I can crack it.
I am in a rush as trying to rally as many troups as possible for a COFFEE MORNING on Saturday 16th in ASKRIGG VILLAGE HALL in aid of the CHRISTIAN AID HAITI APPEAL. 10am kick off with raffle, cake stall, jumble, etc - need to raise lots of money for this horrendous tragedy. Obviously I appreciate those of you in India/Spain/France can't come, but if anyone is near enough and feels like a chatty morning, then get yourselves there.
I'm off but will be back at the weekend - fat bottoms are GOOD!!!!!!!!
E xx
Today, I made some parsnip and celeriac soup BEFORE going to work which I had for lunch with an orange. Again, I set the timer for baked potatoes and a beef stew (made healthily) and had a yoghurt for pud. I am optimistic that I can crack it.
I am in a rush as trying to rally as many troups as possible for a COFFEE MORNING on Saturday 16th in ASKRIGG VILLAGE HALL in aid of the CHRISTIAN AID HAITI APPEAL. 10am kick off with raffle, cake stall, jumble, etc - need to raise lots of money for this horrendous tragedy. Obviously I appreciate those of you in India/Spain/France can't come, but if anyone is near enough and feels like a chatty morning, then get yourselves there.
I'm off but will be back at the weekend - fat bottoms are GOOD!!!!!!!!
E xx
Monday 11 January 2010
Enjoying being good
Good day today both generally and with food. I decided that enough was enough and this kamikaze eating has got to stop.
So, cut up banana & pear with natural low fat yoghurt and seeds for breakfast. A rocket, prawn and lemon wrap (low fat tortilla) for lunch with a tangerine. A rocket (well, it needs using), prawn (likewise), pear (they're ripe) and avocado salad for supper - it was delicious and made a perfect starter. Mmm. Wot, no main course?
So, pleased with myself. Even more pleased as I tormented myself by making Shepherd's Pie with carrots and peas followed by syrup sponge and custard for Bruce and the children. Those lovely crusty bits round the edge of the dish - all left in the dish. Bonus star for lizzie.
Took Lucy out in the snow which I'm sure is the physical equivalent of twice the distance - it's very firming (or would be if I did more of it). I have been to our village singing group - an informal collection of all ages who just enjoy singing. It's surprisingly like a workout after an hour and far preferable to a fitness class.
Please let me stay in the zone.....
E xx
So, cut up banana & pear with natural low fat yoghurt and seeds for breakfast. A rocket, prawn and lemon wrap (low fat tortilla) for lunch with a tangerine. A rocket (well, it needs using), prawn (likewise), pear (they're ripe) and avocado salad for supper - it was delicious and made a perfect starter. Mmm. Wot, no main course?
So, pleased with myself. Even more pleased as I tormented myself by making Shepherd's Pie with carrots and peas followed by syrup sponge and custard for Bruce and the children. Those lovely crusty bits round the edge of the dish - all left in the dish. Bonus star for lizzie.
Took Lucy out in the snow which I'm sure is the physical equivalent of twice the distance - it's very firming (or would be if I did more of it). I have been to our village singing group - an informal collection of all ages who just enjoy singing. It's surprisingly like a workout after an hour and far preferable to a fitness class.
Please let me stay in the zone.....
E xx
Sunday 10 January 2010
It is Sunday
I want to give you an extract from a poem that was used as the blessing at the end of the service last week. It was epiphany and the sermon had been about revelation and having faith.
"I said to the man who stood at the gate to the year, "Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown."
And he replied, "Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way."
Hope the new year is a good one for you too.
E xx
"I said to the man who stood at the gate to the year, "Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown."
And he replied, "Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way."
Hope the new year is a good one for you too.
E xx
Saturday 9 January 2010
A good week
No weight. Can't face it yet and did say I wouldn't be able to until mid month. Mmm. One week to go then. We are surrounded by diet advice - every paper, magazine and media type is full of it. Metabolic, Fad, Low Carb, Low fat....and the list goes on. They all promise to be easy, keep it off, never hungry, etc. I put "weight loss" into google and got 120MILLION possible connections - "diet advice" gives 52.8 What is the world coming to? We are obsessed and you can see why these diet clubs/websites/foods etc are worth a fortune. We are desperate to get thinner/fitter/healthier yet seem incapable of doing it. As I have banged on about before, no number of diet books and fitness DVD's are going to help unless you are "in the zone" and ready to bite the bullet (rather than another biscuit/chocolate/lump of cheese).
I am not in the zone. I am praying that the situation is resolved when I start work full time in an office environment, where I am expected to look presentable and smart. I am more used to wearing an apron (with three sheep donning swimming caps with the caption, "Dip looks cold today girls!" on the pocket) over a black skirt and long sleeved t-shirt, smelling of chip fat and bacon - is there any hope? I took homemade soup to work on both of my working days and ate sensibly for breakfast and supper. Unfortunately there was a dark chocolate orange left (which his nibs and I polished off at one sitting) and is still the remnants of a bottle of Baileys on the dresser, tempting me to have a little nip every night - thankfully it is nearly gone. Today though, I went to check on an elderly neighbour who must be going stir-crazy by now as he hasn't been out of the house for weeks due to the snow - and he gave me a box of gorgeous looking Lindt chocolates, with the specific instruction that I have to enjoy them without an ounce of guilt or subsequent remorse. Who am I to ignore such instruction?
My problem is that, since the beginning of December, my life has taken a positive turn. I had a fantastic, happy Christmas. I love the snow and the spectacular scenery that lifts and energises at every glance (yes Bruce, I know its really hard for farmers and that you are f***ing sick of it!). I have a new job and am pretty certain I will have found my niche. I have discovered this love of scribbling my inane thoughts down on a blog and find it immensely satisfying. My girls are all healthy and happy. My relationship is great. All in all, I feel incredibly blessed, not a little smug, and an enormous amount of happiness. The upshot of this PMA (positive mental attitude) is that I am no longer pre-occupied with my weight. I no longer feel huge, unattractive and a blight on the face of the earth.
Now, don't get me wrong. I am not running around happy with the curves, lumps and bumps. I know that I am no where near as fit as I should be. I am certainly not "giving up" and resigning myself to being this size. The new outfit I bought last week fits but will look so much better in half a stone's time. Last night, a (admittedly young) girl came into the pub (why was I there? more to follow) whom I hadn't seen for some time - she looked fantastic! She has lost a nice bit of weight and was positively glowing - shiny hair, good skin, toned figure and oooooozing the confidence that every twenty-something should. I want to feel like that again. I might have lost almost 2 stone since this time last year but no one notices you go from very big to a little bit less very big. I might feel better but it's not an immediately noticeable improvement.
On Monday, I am starting with a vengeance.......again!!!!!!!!
Anyway, on a lighter note, I titled this post "A good week" and it has been.
1. Girls all good, happy, healthy and sledging for the third week in a row.
2. I started my new job and am very optimistic about it.
3. Most important.....I got to the semi-finals in the domino knock-out in the pub last night! Absolutely incredible. Anyone that knows me is aware that I am not a regular in the pubs (although I have been known to dance on the tables and be more than a little raucous) and couldn't hit a dart board however hard I tried. However, last night as the drinks were downed and the natural urge to win kicked in, I found the tension rising as I carefully considered which domino to put down. At one stage you would think I was playing poker for all the careful pondering to up skittle my opponents whilst knowing full well I only had one possible domino. I even learnt not to put them in a little semi-circle, that you don't play with 7, you don't have to play the double six first and you play much better with a little help from the liquor! By golly, it was fun - helped along by getting through the rounds of course.
Anyway, time to start the supper (baked potato, pork chop - fat removed, spinach) and then have a bath. Relaxing evening ahead. Now, can I justify that good bottle of red we never got round to at Christmas...................
E xx
I am not in the zone. I am praying that the situation is resolved when I start work full time in an office environment, where I am expected to look presentable and smart. I am more used to wearing an apron (with three sheep donning swimming caps with the caption, "Dip looks cold today girls!" on the pocket) over a black skirt and long sleeved t-shirt, smelling of chip fat and bacon - is there any hope? I took homemade soup to work on both of my working days and ate sensibly for breakfast and supper. Unfortunately there was a dark chocolate orange left (which his nibs and I polished off at one sitting) and is still the remnants of a bottle of Baileys on the dresser, tempting me to have a little nip every night - thankfully it is nearly gone. Today though, I went to check on an elderly neighbour who must be going stir-crazy by now as he hasn't been out of the house for weeks due to the snow - and he gave me a box of gorgeous looking Lindt chocolates, with the specific instruction that I have to enjoy them without an ounce of guilt or subsequent remorse. Who am I to ignore such instruction?
My problem is that, since the beginning of December, my life has taken a positive turn. I had a fantastic, happy Christmas. I love the snow and the spectacular scenery that lifts and energises at every glance (yes Bruce, I know its really hard for farmers and that you are f***ing sick of it!). I have a new job and am pretty certain I will have found my niche. I have discovered this love of scribbling my inane thoughts down on a blog and find it immensely satisfying. My girls are all healthy and happy. My relationship is great. All in all, I feel incredibly blessed, not a little smug, and an enormous amount of happiness. The upshot of this PMA (positive mental attitude) is that I am no longer pre-occupied with my weight. I no longer feel huge, unattractive and a blight on the face of the earth.
Now, don't get me wrong. I am not running around happy with the curves, lumps and bumps. I know that I am no where near as fit as I should be. I am certainly not "giving up" and resigning myself to being this size. The new outfit I bought last week fits but will look so much better in half a stone's time. Last night, a (admittedly young) girl came into the pub (why was I there? more to follow) whom I hadn't seen for some time - she looked fantastic! She has lost a nice bit of weight and was positively glowing - shiny hair, good skin, toned figure and oooooozing the confidence that every twenty-something should. I want to feel like that again. I might have lost almost 2 stone since this time last year but no one notices you go from very big to a little bit less very big. I might feel better but it's not an immediately noticeable improvement.
On Monday, I am starting with a vengeance.......again!!!!!!!!
Anyway, on a lighter note, I titled this post "A good week" and it has been.
1. Girls all good, happy, healthy and sledging for the third week in a row.
2. I started my new job and am very optimistic about it.
3. Most important.....I got to the semi-finals in the domino knock-out in the pub last night! Absolutely incredible. Anyone that knows me is aware that I am not a regular in the pubs (although I have been known to dance on the tables and be more than a little raucous) and couldn't hit a dart board however hard I tried. However, last night as the drinks were downed and the natural urge to win kicked in, I found the tension rising as I carefully considered which domino to put down. At one stage you would think I was playing poker for all the careful pondering to up skittle my opponents whilst knowing full well I only had one possible domino. I even learnt not to put them in a little semi-circle, that you don't play with 7, you don't have to play the double six first and you play much better with a little help from the liquor! By golly, it was fun - helped along by getting through the rounds of course.
Anyway, time to start the supper (baked potato, pork chop - fat removed, spinach) and then have a bath. Relaxing evening ahead. Now, can I justify that good bottle of red we never got round to at Christmas...................
E xx
Tuesday 5 January 2010
New Year, new job!
I have decided to do myself a favour and not weigh myself for a fortnight. This is because the excesses will not be pretty. Unfortunately, my new years' resolutions have thus far been: Sunday - diet starts tomorrow; Monday - diet really starts tomorrow; Tuesday - right, that's it - the diet, without compromise, STARTS TOMORROW!!! I am about to have a Baileys whilst watching Kill it, Cook it, Eat it (Piper's Farm, Devon - fantastic people!) and then, get organised.
The newspapers are full of NEW diets. Fantastic, easy, magically successful diets, never been done before. We know what to do - it's finding the energy, inclination, will power, control etc, to do it. I watched The Big Fat Diet Show tonight which was quite interesting - I am sure I could diet more easily if someone would open the 100 calorie shop - everything conveniently packed into 100 calorie packs. Perfect! Select 12 bags and you've got your food for the day. If only life was that convenient. The presenter did quote the old adage, "Fail to plan, plan to fail". So true.
Tomorrow I start my new job - working in an estate agents! I am going to be able to nose round lovely houses with legitimacy! I love houses and interiors as well as selling so maybe, at last, I could find my niche. The pinny has come off (almost) and sensible clothes need to go on. I am in a quandry there as I have very few acceptable tidy clothes but am loathe to buy too many in the hope (or, more positively, with the knowledge) that I am going to lose more weight. My budget does not allow for clothes that are only going to last for a month (how optimistic is that!). I went into a local dress shop last week and came out thinking that it is a good job I am a relatively laid back person with a sense of humour. Firstly I selected a top - the girl in the shop who is younger but not much, than me, said, "oh yes, Mum's got that one, it looks nice on". Mmm, not an auspicious start. Then I selected a skirt to which she let me know that she had it in a bigger size. As I walked towards the changing room, the owner asked what size I had got, I said a 16 and she replied that she had got it in an 18 if I needed it. Mmm, do you want me to buy anything? Would you like a sales course in making your customers feel good? I felt like leaping out of the changing room just to show them that it fitted! (but I had my jeans around my knees and walking boots on my feet so it wasn't a good look!). I bought the skirt and a good pair of smart boots, after it had been pointed out that they had buckles at the side which let out to fit larger calves - great! So, the hippo has a tidy outfit for her first day at work. Hopefully the snow will hold off long enough for me to get to the office.
All is well in the Guy household. We had a great festive period and are all in positive mood for the coming year. Going back to full time work, especially not self employed, is going to be a shock to the system but one that I embrace with enthusiasm. Time will tell.
THE DIET STARTS TOMORROW.....AGAIN!!
E xx
The newspapers are full of NEW diets. Fantastic, easy, magically successful diets, never been done before. We know what to do - it's finding the energy, inclination, will power, control etc, to do it. I watched The Big Fat Diet Show tonight which was quite interesting - I am sure I could diet more easily if someone would open the 100 calorie shop - everything conveniently packed into 100 calorie packs. Perfect! Select 12 bags and you've got your food for the day. If only life was that convenient. The presenter did quote the old adage, "Fail to plan, plan to fail". So true.
Tomorrow I start my new job - working in an estate agents! I am going to be able to nose round lovely houses with legitimacy! I love houses and interiors as well as selling so maybe, at last, I could find my niche. The pinny has come off (almost) and sensible clothes need to go on. I am in a quandry there as I have very few acceptable tidy clothes but am loathe to buy too many in the hope (or, more positively, with the knowledge) that I am going to lose more weight. My budget does not allow for clothes that are only going to last for a month (how optimistic is that!). I went into a local dress shop last week and came out thinking that it is a good job I am a relatively laid back person with a sense of humour. Firstly I selected a top - the girl in the shop who is younger but not much, than me, said, "oh yes, Mum's got that one, it looks nice on". Mmm, not an auspicious start. Then I selected a skirt to which she let me know that she had it in a bigger size. As I walked towards the changing room, the owner asked what size I had got, I said a 16 and she replied that she had got it in an 18 if I needed it. Mmm, do you want me to buy anything? Would you like a sales course in making your customers feel good? I felt like leaping out of the changing room just to show them that it fitted! (but I had my jeans around my knees and walking boots on my feet so it wasn't a good look!). I bought the skirt and a good pair of smart boots, after it had been pointed out that they had buckles at the side which let out to fit larger calves - great! So, the hippo has a tidy outfit for her first day at work. Hopefully the snow will hold off long enough for me to get to the office.
All is well in the Guy household. We had a great festive period and are all in positive mood for the coming year. Going back to full time work, especially not self employed, is going to be a shock to the system but one that I embrace with enthusiasm. Time will tell.
THE DIET STARTS TOMORROW.....AGAIN!!
E xx
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