Month 2 - Its getting better...

So, I was going to do weekly updates, but you know what, I decided against it.. seeing as sometimes even small goals take a while to reach.

Last month I told you about the first month on the Lifestyle Programme and how I'd been finding it, working alongside all the various strategies I'd been encouraged to implement... Now for Month 2!

FOOD
Well, I started Weight Watchers, after being referred by P (my Lifestyle Coach) and have been following their 'Simple Start' and 'Filling and Healthy' guides.. Now, this may seem like rocket science, but basically it isn't. Its eating very sensible foods, having the odd treat and keeping track of it with the online tracking application. To be honest, I'm finding it sooo easy.. Knowing that if I like I can fill up on loads of foods and not worry about it, well, obviously within reason. I try to do things like have a drink before actually putting food in my face, just to be sure that I'm actually hungry. In fact the past few days I've been ravenous!! So, extra drinks have been had and even the odd extra bowl of fruit or shredded wheat! I've also been cooking much more.. something I'd got out of the habit of.. But I'm glad to say I'm enjoying that too, made a pretty mean mixed bean stew with wholewheat pasta.. which, with the addition of smoked paprika, is really tasty!

EXERCISE
So, there was my goal.. walk for 30-60 minutes twice a week and go to the WEA Exercise class... Great.. well, when I do it. I've found sometimes tying myself to a routine hard, so have modified it for myself now. I still go to my WEA class, which is still every bit as amusing as the first time and the ladies there are so lovely, but am not putting myself under pressure to complete the 2 x 30-60 minute walks, as sometimes I'm just so busy. However, what I am doing is generally being more active. I've made a start in the garden, so plan to put an hour or so in each week, but also do things like sorting out my cupboards, cutting hedges, whatever, to just generally be more active. Its amazing how much difference it has been making, just doing the simple things instead of sitting at the laptop! lol

The Media and Text 4 Change 
Well, so far so good. The media are leaving me to it, for the time being, which is nice, I'm not sure I could stand the scrutiny of the media spotlight all the time, heaven knows why people do it, to be honest. So, have settled down from all the media attention at the start of this journey. Text 4 Change texts have been arriving every day and do contain some very useful info, hints and tips.. rather like a 'Top Tips' section in newspapers. They're encouraging and positive, which is what everyone on this journey needs.. subtle, gentle, encouragement. I didn't realise that some of it was 'interactive', meaning I've had to send texts, which my phone informed me "You may be charged for this service", but this isn't the case, its definately free! I don't mind sending these texts as I get a nice response, again, usually something very positive. How I describe it, is its like having a friend who's full of good ideas and who is gently encouraging you.. so yes, still pleased I've signed up with it. L from the council media department has been sending encouraging emails too, which is also lovely.

Lifestyle Coach
Well, seeing as I have another 3-4 weeks before I see P again, I think I'm safe in just briefly mentioning this.. lol. So last time I met P my goals were:

- Go once per week to Weight Watchers.
- Carry on WEA class
- Increase water intake to at least 1 litre per day
- Maintain 2-3 30-60 min walks per week

So, how have I been doing.. well, I'm doing all of them.. Still staying on track and the evidence speaks for itself.

Round-up
So, you probably want to know how much I've lost, etc since day 1 and how well I'm doing now.. Here goes...

So, this was Day 1 (ish)

On Day 1 I weighed 15stone 12lbs

I lost a little through the Lifestyle Programme so that when
I started Weight Watchers I was 15stone 8lbs

My vitals at that time were around:

Bust: 47 inches

Waist: 42 inches

Hips: 47 inches

This is me today, 5 weeks after starting Weight Watchers

Weighing in at 14 stone 11lbs

Vitals:

Bust: 46 inches

Waist: 40 inches

Hips: 45 inches






I know the pics aren't brilliant, nor the clothing the most flattering, but its just to demonstrate how these changes can be made. I'm so pleased with the results so far. Never have I ever lost so much weight in such a short time.. I usually take ages and ages to lose weight, months and months to lose a stone. I've lost 11 pounds in 5 weeks.. which is a record for me!!! I know I still have a way to go, but I'm inspired to keep going and get to a healthy weight!

Until next time...

Take care