My Weight loss journey

Steve and I

2008-05-13T05:52:00.003+01:00

Thank you for your lovely comments on my last entry. It is good to be back and I am getting back on track with my weightloss too. Today I have tracked and planned all my food and I am hoping that I'll find some energy and inspiration to go the gym after work tonight.

I have had another fantastic weekend, most of it spent with Steve. I caught the train straight to him after work on Friday (he lives near Bognor Regis) and stayed the night then on Saturday we just relaxed before coming back to Southampton and going to a friends party. He met lots of my friends on Saturday evening which was really nice and it was lovely that they just accepted him and he fitted in straight away. Then on Sunday we just nursed our hangovers before he went home mid afternoon as it was his nan's birthday.

I don't mind telling you all (and Steve if you are reading this) that I love him loads. I am very very very happy at the moment and he has captured my heart in such a big way. I can't imagine life without him at the moment and I hope I never do. We have so much in common and I am so glad I have a man who I can cuddle up to at night and actually sleep in his arms because that is my favourite thing in the world.

I've posted some pics of us at my friends party on Saturday night. I hope you like them. I realised when I saw them just how much he does really love me. You only have to look at the way he is looking at me etc to see that and it's the best feeling in the world ever.

Vicky xxx

Update

2008-05-07T05:23:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone,

You have probably noticed that a lot of my posts from this year have been deleted. Please do not worry, there is no other reason for this than I don't want them here anymore for various reasons which I am about to share with you all.

As this blog is about my weightloss I bring you news on that first. I put a few pounds on with everything going on in my life but I've had a couple of good losses and am back on track now although still struggling. However, I realised a long time ago that I am much happier with myself these days and that the weight will come off one day so I don't worry about it that much anymore.

So, the reasons for deleting my posts then. Well, I've realised what an idiot I made of myself and what an idiot certain people made of me. My life was not a good place with Mikey passing away and struggling with WW and then I admit that Alan came along and hurt me at a time when I could not deal with it. I don't want to go into details of what happened with him but I used it as an excuse to go off the rails a bit and then I gave myself a bit of a talking too and pulled it back.

I'd also like to tell you I have a wonderful new man in my life. His name is Steve (hunni if you are reading this I love you spades - oh my god I'm learning to speak Steve already) and I won't bore you with all the details but 3 weeks and 3 days after we met I'm feeling things I never thought it was possible to feel and my heart does things it never did before.

Enough from me...I'll post again soon.

Vicky xxxx

Yesterday was...

2008-02-06T05:53:00.000Z

My best day for a long long time. I needed to prove to myself that I can still do this and that is what I did. I did not snack, I drunk two litres of water, I stayed under points, hell I even managed to bank some and I had a walk as I walked to football (England under 21s played Ireland in Southampton). I'm feeling loads better for my good day and I am hoping today will be just as good.

I have been telling myself lately that this is too hard, that I can't do it, that I am hungry etc. Well they are just excuses and I am fed up of making excuses. I know I can do it and at the end of the day I either have two choices, success or failure. I can either put on weight (which I am capable of doing very quickly) or I can get to goal and feel so much better about myself. I know what I choose and it's not failure.

You see, I just needed to get tough with myself for a bit. I am glad I have

Vicky xx

Lent

2008-02-05T05:46:00.000Z

Now I'm not overly religious but I am aware that tomorrow sees the start of Lent. I see this as a good time to give up something that is bad for me and has been causing me problems in my fight of the flag.

I've been struggling with snacks recently. I've been eating too many, i.e. too many packets of quavers, too many rich toffee bars, too many skinny cow ice creams etc. God it is no wonder I have put on weight (yes I had a sneak at the scales last night at meeting and it was not pleasant).

So from now until Easter not a snack is going to pass my lips. I will stick with breakfast, lunch and dinner and hope that makes a difference to me. I've got to stop making excuses and get on top of this.

I've also decided to try and give up alcohol but that could prove difficult...I really am going to try though.

Vicky xxx

I'm not weighing in this evening

2008-02-04T05:40:00.000Z

To be honest, I have been bad this week and know that I'd have a big gain. For this reason, I am not weighing in this evening. I decided yesterday when I woke up today I would start again and that is exactly what I am going to do. I know I can do this so from today I am being really really and hope I can pull it back for next week.

I've been really struggling lately and I don't know why but I do know I need to rein it in as I really want to get to goal and I certainly do not want to put my weight back on again, ever!!! I think you'll be seeing me on 5+ again soon.

Vicky xx

My WI Result

2008-01-28T22:07:00.000Z

I am totally gutted. I have been perfect this week. Done lots of exercise, drunk lots of water, eaten healthily and within points and guess what....

I STAYED THE SAME!!!

Not much more to say really. This is hard but I shall keep plodding along. It has to come off sooner or later doesn't it?

Vicky xxx

The Look

2008-01-27T00:12:00.000Z

Tonight (Saturday) I went with my mother, stepfather and some friends to see a 70s glamrock style tribute band at our local club. If you read further down my blog you will see that I have seen them before and am a big fan of them. You can find out more on their website at www.lookglam.co.uk

My reasons for writing this entry are that I wore a dress this evening and it was the first time I had worn it. I brought it from Dorothy Perkins in the sales and was not sure if it suited me but judging by all the lovely comments I got this evening I must have looked ok. I've added a few of the pictures here. Please note, I was sober and did not have a drink all evening and yes I did take my shoes off to dance as I can dance better without heels on, weird I know but then I am weird.

Girls, I'll need some advice later so I'll post again soon.

Hope everyone is well.

Vicky xxx

Before and "so far" pictures

2008-01-25T17:39:00.000Z

Someone asked for these to save people having to scroll through the endless rubbish on here so here they are. Enjoy.

Vicky xx

Move move move!!!

2008-01-24T05:59:00.000Z

I've found my mojo. I'm loving exercise at the moment that even the thighs that are throbbing right now are worth it. They are not so bad to be fair in any case but I've decided no pain, no gain.

I want to tone up and have a nice figure so I've decided to concentrate on toning and cardio and to forget the fat burning for a bit. The fat burning will happen anyway through the exercise and if I do Weightwatchers properly. That means I've really cut down on the gym and have been going to lots of exercise classes which I really love. I even went to circuit training last night, for the first time since very late in November.

Tonight I am going out with a friend after work so no exercise for me but tomorrow I have the day off. Am hoping to go out in the evening but I am going to get up early, go for a run and then come home to do my exercise/dance dvd. I was going to go to the gym but a friend is coming round in the afternoon for a pc lesson so I have a busy day.

I've had some lovely comments on my blog lately which I thank you all for. I've recently told my friends and family about it as I'd kept it a bit of a secret before. You see, stupid as it sounds I'm embarrassed by how much I used to weigh and just want to be "normal" and do things that people my age do. I am certainly getting A LOT more sociable now than I used to be which is great and, despite a little setback with my confidence over Christmas, I've realised that I am a much more confident person. I've just got to convince myself of that. I'm getting there.

Vicky xxx

p.s. I've been practising walking in those high heels at home and at work. Not sure I can carry off the dancing in them next Saturday night but a promise is a promise so I'll give it a try.

WI Result

2008-01-21T22:00:00.000Z

Lost 1.5lbs this week which I am happy with as again I was out eating and drinking on Thursday night and eating on Friday so it just proves I can be normal and lose weight. So, I now weigh exactly 12 stone and have lost 189lbs in total. I feel better now.

This week I am going to drop my points to what they would be at 11 stone 13 and hope that does the trick. I am desperate to get to goal and although I know it will take time, I am determined to help myself along the way.

I've booked in for quite a few classes this week. Today I did ab crunch and LBT which were both good. Not sure I will that way in the morning though. Tomorrow I am going to a Total NRG class and Wednesday I am going to Circuits. As I am also off on Friday and not going to Liverpool now I am going to go to the gym and to a Yoga class. I will also try and fit a session in at the gym on Saturday although I have a busy day so surely all this has to help in my quest.

Anyway, had my hair done today and everyone has commented on how nice it is so here are some pictures.

Hope everyone is well. You can safely say I am back to my old self again now and raring to go.

Vicky xx

Yoga and Pilates

2008-01-20T11:41:00.000Z

I decided a few weeks ago that I need to get some flexibility and relaxation into my workouts so two weeks ago, Tash (my WW buddy) and I went to Pilates. Now, I never thought I would enjoy it for one moment but I loved it!!! I realised that I spent the whole time holding my stomach in so surely that has to be good for the abs etc doesn't it and I hurt the next day which I am also guessing is a good thing.

Well, fresh from my attempt at Pilates, this morning I went to a yoga class. I was very unsure of what to expect here but again it was great. I did not enjoy it as much as Pilates but it was still good and I have decided to make these classes a regular occurrence now. That means that on a Sunday morning I will be going to Yoga and Sunday evenings I will be going to Pilates. There is also a Pilates class on a Tuesday evening which I may at some stage consider going to but I may take Tuesdays off and keep going to circuit training on a Wednesday instead.

I am off work tomorrow so I am going to a couple of classes at the gym too. Core conditioning in the morning and LBT before WI! I must be mad but I feel the time has come to get that figure I so badly want. One day I might even do something about the little bit of excess skin I have but I'll let time, exercise, water and creams do its bit for now.

Vicky xxx

My WI result

2008-01-14T21:55:00.000Z

I was really really dreading WI this evening as I had a curry and beer night on Thursday and went out for dinner again on Saturday (although I was good) and yet to my surprise I lost 0.5lbs!!! It all helps doesn't it? So I'm back to 187.5lbs lost in total and now I am 12 stone 1.5lbs and as motivated as ever to get back into those 11stones, get my 200lb certificate and get to goal!!! Hopefully next week I'll be back into those 11s at least.

At meeting this evening I took my "fat" trousers to show everyone. The said trousers are a size 30 and even they were too small for me. Now I am wearing size 14s and my head is finally beginning to catch up with my body. I've added a photo here for you to see.

After work today I went into town to have a browse before meeting Marie for our meeting. I brought a skirt and top and I am loving it. I am hoping that a nice young man will perhaps appreciate it and take me out but I doubt that so I'll enjoy wearing it and the confidence it gives me when I do. Would you like to see a picture? Oh ok then as it's you ;-)

Vicky xx

So much for my good week!

2008-01-13T08:44:00.000Z

I had every good intention of being superb this week. Lots of exercise, lots of healthy eating, lots of staying within points and lots of water. All was going well until Thursday (apart from the exercise cos I had not done any) and then I went for dinner and to the cinema with a work colleague and an account customer of ours.

You know how these things work. I had decided I was going to have salad and drink diet coke but when I got there the vodka won. It was after a couple that we ordered dinner. Now, that was a mistake because it was also curry night where you get a curry and a drink for £6 something and as the two guys I was with decided "curry it was", so did I.

Now, I know on Weightwatchers you have to have treats etc now and again but I did not have the points for it. Then when I woke up on Friday morning I had a bad stomach and felt really guilty for what I had eaten. It really was not worth that feeling and now I really regret eating it.

Anyway, yesterday I made a big pot of vegetable soup which I had for lunch and will have today too. It is lovely. Last night I went out with Marie (leader) and her daughter Lucie to see PS I love you at the cinema. Before hand we went to a restaurant called Banana Wharf in Ocean Village for something to eat. I was very good and had king prawns with a salad, dressing on the side and only a couple of pieces of popcorn in the cinema. PS I love you was a great film and I would say that if you are thinking of going to see it, do!

So today, apart from the housework I need to do I am going to the gym and either to pilates or circuits. I have not decided which yet and after WI tomorrow night I am going to have a fantastic week and do lots of exercise. I really want to get back into those 11 stones and I really want to get to goal as soon as possible to make me feel good. It might not seem it to all of you but I really am struggling with this a bit at the moment.

Vicky xx

The next step to a new me...

2008-01-12T13:49:00.000Z

is to find a new job. Don't get me wrong, I like my current job as operations supervisor for a very busy taxi company and am comfortable with it but probably a bit too comfortable if the truth be known.

The only real chance of promotion for me would be as operations manager as any other position will always be filled by a share holder or director. However, unfortunately my operations manager has just been made redundant as the position is no longer viable (mainly because us supervisors do such a good job). This means there is no scope for career progression at all and although I thought I'd work for Radio Taxi's forever, the time has come to start looking for another position, hopefully a managerial one.

I do actually have a job I am very interested in applying for but I don't want to jinx things by talking about it. Let's just say, you might have seen it "advertised!" However, I'm not going to put my eggs into one basket and I am sure I'll apply for several jobs before I find the one for me.

Before I lost weight I would never have had the confidence to apply for another position so thanks Weightwatchers, that is something else I am grateful for.

Vicky xx

My Post Christmas and New Year WI

2008-01-07T22:35:00.000Z

Well it could have been a lot worse. Last Thursday I went to help Marie at her other meeting and when I sneakily had a look I had gained 6lbs!!! Ouch...Anyway, that made me determined and since then I have been perfect. Tonight I was 12 stone 2lbs which meant a gain of just 3lbs over the festive season which, considering how much I have eaten I can more than handle and I know I'll get back into those 11 stones in the next couple of weeeks. After all, I have targets to reach and 200lb certificates to get!!!

So this week I am doing it by the book. Wish me luck

Vicky xx

I feel fat!!!

2008-01-06T07:57:00.000Z

How stupid is that? I've lost over 13 stone and I feel fat!!! Now, don't get me wrong, I can look in the mirror and see that I have lost loads and loads of weight and compared to how I looked 2 years ago I look great but I still look fat.

I've been feeling this way for a few weeks now and I think it is because I am more aware of my weight now. At 25 and a half stone I had lost all self respect and did not care what I looked like or what people thought of me but now I do. It is not helped that people keep saying to me "You look great" or "You don't need to lose anymore weight" or "you are not fat" or "don't go over the top" etc. Ok I know I can look great when I make an effort but I do need to lose more weight, I am still fat and I'll never go OTT!!!

I think I am also feeling this way because I know I have gained weight over Christmas and New Year and although I am now firmly back on the wagon I know how easy it would be to go back to old ways and I don't want to do that EVER, none of you reading this can ever let me do and nor can I. I hate that feeling.

So maybe feeling fat is a good thing because it keeps me in check and back on the wagon. I will beat this, I will I will I will!!!

Vicky xx

It's so cold!!!

2008-01-04T06:07:00.000Z

I think I am going to go and live with the polar bears or penguins somewhere. Infact, the North pole sounds good right now. I could go sledging and clubbing (not that kind of clubbing you fool ;-) ) and live in an igloo. It can't be any colder than it is here!!! Of course I maybe exaggerating a bit but I've never been so cold as I have been recently.

I've always been a warm person and most of the time my body is still warm to the touch. However, I don't feel warm. I never thought about it before but I suppose when you consider I've lost 190lbs of far then I've lost one hell of a lot of padding and insulation that used to keep me warm.

So if this cold snap hits us like it is supposed to and temperatures do plummet I'll be the one with about 10 layers on. It's a good job I've brought some thick jumpers recently to wrap up in. Some thermals sound good too right now but hardly adds to my new look does it? Haha. At least my zippy hotwater bottle keeps me warm at night!!!

A year ago today...

2008-01-03T20:32:00.000Z

I gave up smoking and I feel so much better for it.

Nothing else to say on that matter, just thought I would share

Vicky xx

I'm so glad Christmas and New Year is over

2008-01-03T07:52:00.000Z

Putting it bluntly, Christmas was a bit shit this year. This was for various reasons but the main one being I worked 12 hours on both Christmas day and boxing day. Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining, it was my choice and it's pay day today so I'm going to meet a friend for lunch (like I need to eat food) and go shopping with the extra money but all work and no play gets a bit dull.

I had some cracking nights out in December. On New Years Eve I went out with some friends (an old school friend amongst others) to a casino. I went out on the town with my good drinking buddy Sarah (what a night that was, I don't even remember the names ;)), I had a few dates (least said sooner mended I think), I went out with Sam (from work and we drank doubles through a straw and got very drunk) and I met one of our taxi drivers for a few drinks and high antics. We also had our works Xmas party and I met the girls from school for lunch. However, Christmas was very quiet and I am feeling a bit deflated at the moment.

I just think it is a big work up and lots of stress just for a few hours. It's nice nice to catch up with friends and family but it always brings home the people you miss, like my dad who lives in Spain and my good friend Jo who died in the Summer. It was her kids first Christmas without her and that makes me sad, although Jo would hate anyone feeling sad. Bless her, may she forever rest in peace.

It's also an excuse to eat too much. Last year I managed to control this but I've not managed to this year. I am really trying to get back on track but finding it hard at the moment. Perhaps I'll have more success after Weigh In, talking of which that is where I am going now, to a WW meeting but not to WI, just to help.

Vicky xx

I've cracked this!

2008-01-01T20:54:00.000Z

I really have. It's taken me a long long time to admit it but

I HAVE A WEIGHT PROBLEM!!!

Always have had, always will but that weight problem is under control and will stay that way forever.

You see, I've realised how much of life I've missed out on being fat. Despite how much people say they don't, they treat you differently and as much as that is a said state of affairs, this has affected my life so much. I don't want to go back to being that social outcast that everyone stares at because I'm so fat and it is for this reason that I know I'll never put weight back on (unless I ever have a baby of course), as well as knowing this this is my time and I much prefer me now to when I was fat.

The reason I know I've cracked this is that I can fall off the wagon now and yet manage to get back on it again. In the past, a bad day or week would mean I'd give up but why? I have no idea. However, I've realised that my weight problem does not have to and will not rule my life anymore. That is the big breakthrough I've needed for years and I'm going to grab every moment and take each and every opportunity that comes my way.

Vicky xx

What a year 2007 was, what will 2008 bring?

2008-01-01T20:43:00.001Z

Where did that year go? It is amazing to think that this time last year I was sat feeling sorry for myself weighing 22 and a half stone and here I am a year later still here feeling sorry for myself....Ha ha not really I've not been happier and in a better place for years.

If someone had said to me this time last year that I'd be starting 2008 10.5 stone lighter than I'd started 2007 I would have had them committed. I never in a million years thought I'd come so far but I am so happy that I have.

I set myself 3 resolutions for 2007. To lose weight, to get fit and to give up smoking and I managed to keep these going for the whole of the year. Normally my resolutions last for 5 minutes.

My life has changed so much this year. I started it as this quiet, unconfident, shy person who was also very lonely because I hid away from friends and family as I was embarrassed at how big I'd become. Now, I'll talk to anyone. Infact it's difficult to shut me up. I've been making a real effort to catch up with old friends and it has been great. I've also starting dating again although I've not been as successful at that - a failed attempt at a relationship, a few (ok several) drunken kissed in a nightclub and a few dates hardly constitutes success does it? - I've had my fingers burnt and my confidence knocked a little on that just recently but I'm working on it.

My biggest goal for 2008 is to get to goal. I hope to have a healthy BMI by the end of February and be at my personal goal by my birthday on 4th June. Other goals include to seriously take up running - I love the gym and it has been great for the fat burn but now I want to concentrate on fitness and toning so am going to start a running program as well as going to circuit training twice a week - , and to carry on being this nicer person with a "life" because I much more prefer the more outgoing confident me to the person I used to be.

Vicky xxx

Happy New Year to you all

2008-01-01T20:38:00.000Z

This will hopefully be the first of many posts in 2008 so Happy New Year to all of you and I hope all your wished for 2008 are granted.

Vicky xx

By the end of February...

2007-12-29T23:08:00.000Z

I intend to have a healthy BMI. It's a very bold statement to make but I've decided to do this.

Now, I've not been great since WI last Sunday. Infact, I've been quite bad and before today was feeling bloated and yuk so this is a good statement to make as it will make me climb back on the wagon.

I've realised over the past few days how easy it would be to get back into old eating habits but I never want to do that because I much prefer this person I am these days to the person I used to be.

So, today I've stepped back onto the wagon and I am staying firmly on it now. It's been nice to have a bit of a break but the feeling of a healthy BMI will be even better. I have 21lbs to get there and in that time I'll also get my 200lb certificate. When I achieve these goals, you'll hear the screams from wherever you are.

Vicky xx

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T21:45:00.000Z

I hope each and everyone of you reading this has had the most fantastic Christmas and managed to spend time with family and loved ones. I've been at work for a 12 hour shift but the £25 an hour makes it all worthwhile, especially when I can go and buy some more clothes next week (pay day).

I did manage to spend a couple of hours with my family this evening and work was not actually that bad. It was very quiet and Gary and Sam, the two people I worked with were good company and made the time go quickly which is always good. I am working 12 hours tomorrow too. No rest for the wicked eh?

Anyway, here are some pictures taken today. I've included one from last year too so you can see what a difference a year makes.

Vicky xxx

WI Result

2007-12-23T18:10:00.000Z

We just had a WI only this week and a day early so that people could make the most of their monthly passes and I managed to lose 3lbs!!!

I am very happy with that as it gave me another silver seven , have lost 190lbs (13 stone 8lbs) in total and am into the 11 stones for the first time since 1991. I also now only have 21lbs to go to get to the top end of my healthy BMI range.

What a great Christmas present. I wonder what the New Year will bring.

Vicky xx

Brown haired girl

2007-12-23T14:25:00.001Z

Well these pictures are a lot more flattering of me and show my hair off better. I wore this top out on a last night with some leggings and flat shoes which was a shock as I have been trying to get used to walking in high heels.

My new hair colour

2007-12-22T12:40:00.000Z

Not the greatest picture as I am getting over a cold and sore throat and don't have a scrap of make up on but here is a picture of my new hair colour. Will get some more later when I am dolled up ready to go out.

Let me know what you think. It took a while but I love it now and everyone else seems to share that opinion too.

Vicky xx

WI Result (17th Dec 2007)

2007-12-17T21:11:00.000Z

Well I managed another 2.5lbs off this week. I am again surprised because I was out drinking on Friday and Saturday evening and had a big meal yesterday but when I sit and think about it, I realise that automatically in my head I am thinking about what I need to cut down during the week when I had things like this weekend coming up and that can only be a good thing surely?

Anyway, I now weigh 12 stone 2 and I am going to try to get into those 11s for the New Year. I have lost 187lbs in total so that 200lb certificate is also within my sights. Wish me luck getting there.

This week I have our works Xmas do on Thursday evening and am going out with some work colleagues and clients of ours for a night of drink and high antics. It should be a good night.

Vicky x

P.S. This picture was taken because I can't believe how my legs look. Are they really my legs?

Some new pictures of me

2007-12-16T22:48:00.000Z

Not much to say really but here are some pictures taking today. I am wearing a size 16 top and size 14 trousers. I could not tell you the last time I did that.

Vicky xxx

Meeting up with old friends

2007-12-16T21:16:00.000Z

Today I went for lunch with some friends from school. It was great to see them as we've been a bit hopeless at all keeping in touch. Now, I was always the frumpy one at school so I thought I'd share these pictures with you so you can see how things change. I'm sure you know which one is me by now.

Vicky xxx

WI Result (10th December 2007)

2007-12-10T22:46:00.001Z

So many good things come out of my good loss this week. I lost 6.5lbs amazingly which I put down to a combination of end of TOTM and not eating enough at the weekend (naughty me but it was hangover related).

Anyway, as you may recall I needed to lost 1/2lb to be able to say I've lost 50% of my body weight and 1lb to say I've lost more than I weigh. Those were my two aims for this year and obviously I have achieved them but I am also happy because I've smashed all my other mini goals for the next few weeks. I got my 26th silver seven (13 stone, 2.5lbs lost in total), I've not weighed this little since 1992 when I was 16 years of age, I have less than 2 stone to go to a healthy BMI and , most importantly of all I AM NO LONGER OBESE!!! That means more to me than anything else as I am not just overweight and I can live with that for the time being. I am sure you will agree these are a great set of mini goals and I am very happy to have achieved them all.

Now, two more WI's until Christmas, can I get into those 11's? Mind you, with two Christmas dinners coming up I won't be disappointed if I don't but I shall give it a try. Wish me luck.

Vicky xxx

WI Result (3rd December 2007)

2007-12-03T21:47:00.000Z

I am very pleased to report a 2lb loss this week. I am very very happy with that. It means I have lost 178lbs in total now (12 stone, 10lbs) and am 33lbs away from achieving a healthy BMI.

This week I am going to try and lose anything. 1/2lb will mean I have lost 50% of my bodyweight and 1lb will mean I have lost more than I weigh. What an achievement that will be.

Hope everyone is well and getting sorted for Christmas. Only 3 weeks to go and Santa Claus will be on his way to the UK.

Vicky xxx

Bring on Christmas...

2007-12-02T08:56:00.000Z

Before yesterday I was not looking forward to Christmas one bit. I did not have 1 single present or card. Now, after two very successful shopping trips I have everything I need (and a lot more).

Sometime this week I am going to wrap up my presents and write out my cards. Then I'll really be scared as I am never this organised so early.

I'm working Christmas and Boxing day but I do not mind. I get paid well and I've not worked for the past few years. I'll enjoy the shopping trip on pay day that is for certain although I'll have mum's birthday presents to buy then too. Have absolutely no idea what to get her but I'm not worrying about that until nearer the time.

Vicky xxx

December's here...

2007-12-01T03:02:00.000Z

which means only 25 days until Christmas. Wonderful! I really have no idea where it went but didn't November go quickly? It flew by.

I can't believe that 11 months into 2007 and I'm still sticking to my New Year resolutions. In the past, I'd be lucky to have stuck to them for 11 minutes.

Giving up smoking on 3rd January was one of the best things I ever did. It is almost as good as losing weight. It's hard to believe I put it off for so long because I thought I could not do it. If only I knew what a difference it would make. I've not really noticed a difference financially but I have the noticed the smell on my clothes even when I've been around someone who smokes just for a few minutes so I must have smelt like that the whole time. Disgusting.

My Weightloss slowed down a little in November but that is to be expected as I creep closer to goal. I lost 7.5lbs in total so I am very happy. I'm out of the teens now and with 35lbs to go until I reach the top end of my goal weight, I'm beginning to feel good and judging by all the lovely comments I got last weekend when I wore my frock, I must be looking good too.

My fitness levels continue to improve despite me having been a bit lazy this week. I think everyone deserves a break now and again though. I've started going to circuits twice a week and that is really making a difference to my shape. Need to work a bit harder to shape up my tummy and other problem areas now though.

For December my mini goals will be to get to 12 stone 7lbs. That will not only mean I've lost 10 stone this year but will be the least I have weighed since 1992. Other goals will be be to not gain weight over Christmas and also to try and do some exercise. Work will be very busy now until Christmas and I'll be tired after work so it'll be a struggle to get to the gym. I'll try and maintain my fitness though to keep it ticking over and in January, the running begins.

Until next time.

Vicky xx

WI Result (26th November)

2007-11-26T21:38:00.000Z

I'm so so happy. As you all by no doubt know I've felt plagued by the 13s for ages and without realising it, they have been battling the demons in my head.

Well I am very pleased to announce that the only thing I have to worry about now is not going back into them EVER because I lost a whopping 5lbs this week.

I'm delighted because it means that not only am I out the 13s but it means I have lost 12 stone 8lbs (176lbs) in total and got my 25th silver seven. I've also completed my seasons challenge of getting to 27lbs with a couple of weeks spare.

So onwards (and downwards) I go and now I'm going to set another mini goal for 2.5lbs time as that will mean I've lost 50% of my bodyweight and really will be half the woman I used to be. Wish me luck.

Vicky xxx

A few more pictures from last night

2007-11-25T22:26:00.000Z

Not that different from the ones I have already posted but there is a couple from the back and I thought you might like to see them. I really do look "normal" from the back don't I?

Thank you for all your lovely comments on this blog, via email and also on the boards. They do all really mean a lot to me and I could not have done this without all the support I get from all of you.

Vicky xx

Me in my frock

2007-11-25T12:06:00.000Z

OK I know you are all waiting for these so here they are. I have posted up a few pictures of me in my dress last night. As I've previously stated it is is the first time I have worn a dress in over 11 years and that was only for a few hours to my grandmothers funeral so it was lovely to put my glad rags on and make an effort to look nice last night.

I got lots of lovely compliments last night. There were people that I have not seen in over a year, in cases a lot longer so it was a surprise for many of them. I also got told how much confident and happy I am now, which is probably very true. I certainly found that walking in high heels was actually quite easy (I was always scared I would fall over when I was heavier) and also that I was able to do the moves more easier on the dance floor.

One other thing that was really nice (in a strange way) for me was that in the past, I've always been the biggest person at these presentations. Last night, I was by no means the biggest and I felt like "one of the crowd". Stupid I know but it truly felt like an achievement.

I hope you all enjoy the pictures. When I look in the mirror at the moment I still see this "fat" person (I'm still classed as obese remember) but when I look at these pictures, I think I look almost "normal", little things please little minds eh?

Vicky xxx

p.s. I will try to add more later.

The Village idiots

2007-11-25T10:47:00.000Z

Well as you know, last night was Mum's dart presentation. To present the trophies she managed to persuade some friends to dress up as the Village People. It was fantastic. I did the make up and we had bras and knickers to chuck at them as they were doing the YMCA. All of them were such good sports. Mum introduced them as the Village idiots and I have never heard people cheer and join in as much as they did last night.

Anyway, I thought you might like to see some pictures of them. I am sure you will agree that Pete, Gary, Simon, Gary (another Gary) and Trev were brilliant and deserve all the praise they got.

Vicky xxx

Previous presentation pictures

2007-11-24T10:46:00.000Z

Tonight is mum's dart presentation. If you have been following my blog you will know that these are twice yearly events and that I used to play for and be captain of a side until giving up a couple of years ago to concentrate on my Open University studies.

Tonight, I'll be wearing a dress for the first time in 11 years and that was open to my grandmothers funeral, before that I last wore a dress when I was about 6 or 7. It's a very bold move for me and if you check back here tomorrow there will be pictures for you to see.

Anyhow, since the last presentation in very early June I have lost just under 5 stone (wow is it really that much) and since the one this time last year I have lost just over 10 stone. There will be a lot of people there tonight who have not seen me since then so imagine the surprise they are going to have.

What I've done is included here some pictures of me taking at the presentation last June (2006), which also acted as my 30th birthday party and the presentation this June (2007). I don't like them but when you see the ones taken of me tonight you will see why I no longer mind showing off old pictures as they show how far I have come.

Don't forget to check back tomorrow.

Vicky xxx

As much as I love it:

2007-11-23T05:59:00.000Z

I'm giving up all things chocolate. I have been thinking about doing this for ages but I do enjoy the odd rich toffee bar or a bite of someone else's chocolate now and again. I have however been craving the best food in the world ever a lot recently and Christmas will be hard with chocolate everywhere. You know how it is, I work for a taxi company and I can guarantee that someone will buy me a 1kg tin of chocolates for Christmas and you know who will eat them all! Well, it won't be me. I am going to donate them to the old folks home across the road (did you know a whole tin of chocolates works out at about 89 points?)

So I have a few toffee bars left but when they are gone, I'm giving up chocolate. This will help with the problems I'll face over Christmas and it will give me a sense of achievement and hopefully get me back on the straight and narrow.

I'm having a good week this week. The scales are showing a move downwards (yes I had a sneak) and I am feeling good. My boss is on holiday at work and we are getting busy in the run up to Christmas so I don't think I'll be around much until after that but if you are reading this, I hope you are well and you can always leave me a message here. I'll try and reply if I get time.

Check back on Sunday if you want to see a photo of me in a dress, it'll be a shock to the system I can tell you.

Vicky xxx

The week ahead

2007-11-21T05:57:00.000Z

After my initial disappointment at a stay the same during my "good week" I've realised that this was probably related to the week before. I was not great that week and amazingly lost 1lb so I think it just caught up with me. Also, I went to an extra circuits class which involved a fair bit of work with weights so maybe some of it was muscle and toning related.

However, I really do want a good loss this week as I desperately want to get into the 12s. I don't know why but 12 stone to me sounds so much less than 13 stone and I feel like I have been stuck in them forever.

I've been trying to think of ways I can ensure that I do have a good week and to be honest I've concluded that I simply need to carry on as I did last week. Having said that, I shall not be doing quite as much exercise as I did last week as last night I needed a break and on Thursday I am going to aqua aerobics instead of the gym.

On Saturday evening It's mums dart presentation and I'm wearing that dress so I've decided that on Friday and Saturday I'm going to try and eat core foods and drink only water so that I don't look and feel bloated. I'm driving on Saturday evening so it will be easy for me to not drink and to resist temptation. Let's hope that this week my hard work really is repaid.

Vicky xxx

Meeting up with old friends

2007-11-20T05:53:00.000Z

On Saturday I met up with an old friend from school. We went to play, infant, junior and senior school together. I have only seen her once since we were 18 because she started to go out with a man who was very controlling and did not like her having friends. We fell out in the end over him and the only time I've seen her since was in the supermarket a few years ago and I went back to hers for a cuppa. It was really strange though and I had to leave before "Wayne" got back from from a friends.

Anyhow, we've got back in touch recently and have been talking via email and text for a while. It turns out that her and Wayne split up around 4 years ago (he now has a relationship with her mother, NICE!) and she has two children. Wayne had the children this weekend so we decided to meet to have a catch up.

I picked Marie up around 1745 and after going to the cash point we went to a little village called Hamble to a pub there called King and Queen. It was very quiet but that was good as it meant we had a chance to natter and get all each others news.

I would not normally be mentioning something like this on my blog but the reason I am is that Marie was always the skinny one at school and if she did gain a few pounds she would very quickly lose it again. I was shocked on Saturday that she weighs about 5 stone more than me. It is strange through because it looked like someone had just got a pump and blown her up. I don't think I ever looked like that.

This may sound a but horrible but as great as it was to see her, put our differences to bed and be friends again I do remember her making a big thing about my weight when we were younger. However, as satisfying as it may be for me that she is a lot bigger than me, i'm not being nasty because she is my friend and it is so good to be in touch with her again. I've even promised her that she can borrow my WW books and that I'll help her as she wants to lose weight and can't afford to join a slimming club. I hope she can do it and I'll never let a man or anything else ever come between us again.

Vicky xxx

WI Result (19th November)

2007-11-19T21:51:00.000Z

Well I stayed the same this week. I was at first a bit disappointed at this as I've been very good this week but then I remembered I went to an extra circuits class so maybe toned a little more and added more muscle and also, I had a loss last week when I really did not deserve it. So I'll be grateful and move on, knowing that with 4 more WI's until Christmas that if I am good, I can still lose enough to at least get me into those 12s.

Hope everyone is having a good week. I am a bit busy at the moment but hopefully soon I'll have more time to post both here and on the 5+ forum.

Vicky xxx

So far so good

2007-11-15T22:00:00.001Z

I'm having a good week so far. If you've been following my blog over the past week or so you will know that I was determined to lose a good few pounds before next Saturday (24th) so that my stomach did not feel and look so bloated in my new dress.

Tasha, my friend, Weightwatcher and circuits buddy decided at WI on Monday that she was going to beat me this week. That's an incentive if ever I needed one because I know how good Tasha can be when she puts her mind to it so I've had to be extra good.

I'm having a snack fast up until my works Christmas party on the 20th December and although I am still following points, I'm trying to eat mainly core foods and am finding it fairly easy. This has to help with my quest surely.

I've already done extra exercise this week. I normally have a rest on a Tuesday evening but this week I went to the gym. On Wednesday I went to a circuits class when normally I would try and get to the gym and tonight (Thursday) I've been to the gym. I've also been going for walks during my lunch break and am drinking as much water as I can.

So, for the rest of the week I'm going to continue in the same manner. Tomorrow night I am going swimming and on Saturday and Sunday I will go to the gym as well as to my normal circuits class on Sunday evening. I'm also going to keep up the eating mainly core food and being positive. Let's hope my hard work is rewarded with a good result on Monday night eh?

Vicky xxx

I think I am obsessed...

2007-11-14T21:48:00.001Z

With all things Weightwatchers. Mind you, that is probably not a bad thing because in the past I would have lost motivation and will power and given up a long long time ago.

Everything I do now though is based around Weightwatchers or has in some way incorporated Weightwatchers into it. For example, I'd never have considered going to a circuits class or to the gym before. Now I'm well that this aids my weightloss and if I don't go, I get "cabin fever" and "withdrawal symptoms!" Also, before I joined Weightwatchers I used to sit at work and eat crisps, chocolates, pies etc from the vending machine and shop on top of my lunch. Now I take my breakfast and lunch to work with me and don't eat anything else so I've incorporated Weightwachers into my life that way.

I've noticed a fair bit recently how much my outlook to eating and food in general has changed since I joined Weightwatchers this time. When I have been out to various places or on holiday with others I have noted that everything stops at or revolves around lunch and/or dinnertime and this has began to annoy me. There was a time when I'd be one of the first asking what was for / when is lunch / dinner, now I'm one of the last.

I think that all these things together, along with other changes I have made to my life all combine to keep me on track and focused. Weightwatchers has not completely taken over my life but it is a very big part of it and I know this is my way of doing it. The way I see it now is I have a weight problem. At the moment I am in control of this problem but at anytime that could change and I need to be prepared for that. Right now I know that when I get to goal I'm going to stay there FOREVER!!!

I've got quite a few mini goals coming up:

2007-11-14T05:54:00.000Z

So I thought I would share them with you.

4 more pounds will not only take me to 13 stone exactly but it will also mean I have lost 12.5 stone (175lbs) and bring along my 25th silver 7. Wonderful mini goals all in one go. I'm hoping I can achieve this within the next couple of weeks.

After that, another 1lb will take me into the 12s. The last time I was in the 12s was in 1996 and then I gave up so this will be a good little barrier passed for me.

Then getting to 12 stone 10.5lbs will be my next aim as that means I have lost 50% of my body weight. To say I have lost half of what I used to weigh will be incredible.

Another 3.5lbs after that will take me to 12 stone 7lbs, 13 stone lost (182lbs) and will bring about my 26th silver 7. How amazing!

My biggest mini goal yet will come at 12 stone 3lbs. My BMI will be 29! When I started Weightwatchers it was 61 so not only is this great in itself but also, as you probably know a BMI of over 30 is obese, 29-25 is just overweight. Sounds so much better than being obese doesn't it?

I'm hoping these mini goals keep me focused up to, over and after Christmas and into the New Year. Of course I will let you know how they go and I will set some more once I met them but a major one will be getting into the 11 stones. I have not weighed 11 stone anything since 1992 when I was 16 years of age so you can imagine how amazing that mini goal will be.

Vicky xxx

WI Result (12th November 2007)

2007-11-12T21:36:00.000Z

It has been a hectic week this week with birthdays, people staying over, dinner (and lunch) out so despite my frantic trips to the gym and to circuits this weekend I was expecting a gain. For that reason I am very very pleased to announce that I have lost 1lb this week!!! That now takes me to 13 stone 4lbs and 171lbs (12 stone 3lbs) lost in total.

This week I am going to have a super duper good week. As I mentioned in my previous post I feel that the dress I brought would be better after a few pounds have been lost so this week I am going to try my hardest.

I am also having a snack fast from now until Christmas. I will not snack between meals (except on my orange) and I will eat core foods as much as possible and I am giving up alcohol until the 20th December (works Christmas party) so all this could help in my quest to get into the 12s within the next two weeks.

Vicky xxx

2 weeks until the presentation....

2007-11-10T21:00:00.000Z

and I have an outfit.

Today we went to Winchester. Whilst we were there I went shopping for something to wear to Mum's dart presentation and for our works Christmas party as the top I had in mind is never going to fit by then (If it is a 16 I am a 32 still).

Anyway, being brave I bypassed Evans and went to Debenhams. I found "THE THING" almost as soon as we walked in the door and (here comes the shock) IT IS A DRESS!!! So, two things there to be proud of. 1 - I brought something in a "normal" shop and 2 - I brought a dress. I have never brought a dress before. The last dress I had my Mum actually brought for me.

I did have to buy something to cover my arms though as due to my weightloss, as well as an accident with a twin tub when I was young I have bad arms. The staff in Debenhams were very helpful though and went out of their way to help me find something suitable. The two pictures with this entry are ones I have found online of what I brought today. Of course I shall post some pictures when I wear the said items. I also brought some silver shoes, a silver hand bag and some silver jewellery to accessorize my outfit.

I can't wait to wear the outfit. However, after buying it we all went for dinner and when we got back I tried on the dress to show everyone. I noticed my tummy was a bit bloated and sticking out ever so slightly so for the next two weeks I am going to be perfect in the hope that losing a few pounds may help solve the problem.

I shall of course let you know how the evening goes. There will be a lot of people there I have not seen since I have lost weight so I am going for the WOW factor in a big way!!! Wish me luck.

Vicky xx

WI Result - 5th November 2007

2007-11-05T21:49:00.000Z

I am very pleased to report a 1.5lb loss this week. That means I have lost 170lbs in total (12 stone 2 lbs) and have less than 3 stone to go to goal. Saying "I only need to lose a couple of stone" sounds great doesn't it? It also means that in 6lbs I will have completed my Autumn seasons challenge and also be in the 12 stones. It has been a very very long time since I said that believe me.

So this week I aim to do a little more exercise than last week and beat Tasha, my WW and circuits buddy as she beat me this week. I also need to buy something nice to wear to Mums dart presentation as what I was planning to wear is now too big.

Can I also tag on that on the way from work to WW this evening I stopped and brought a pair of black trousers for work in Bon Marche, IN A SIZE 14 and they fit!!! How cool is that?

Vicky xxx

Last night...

2007-11-04T10:10:00.000Z

We went to see a Beatles tribute band and they were bad!!! About the only good thing about them was that at least we knew all the songs and could sing along!!! It is a shame because I'd heard good things about them and was looking forward to seeing them but never mind, we still had a good night out. You can look the tribute band up by going to the Beetles one website.

Anyway, someone took this picture of me and I thought I'd share it with you. The top I had on was really expensive. £3.50 from Sainsburys and is great because I'll be able to wear it with loads of things. I look skinny in this picture lol!!!

I was in the local paper.

2007-11-04T00:36:00.000Z

Marie and I both contacted the Daily Echo, Southampton's local paper last week to tell them about our meeting having a Halloween themed meeting and also to tell them about me. On Monday I had a call at work from Melanie, a reporter and a photographer turned up at our meeting on Monday evening to take photos of me and the group.

I was a bit disappointed as Halloween came and went and our meeting was not featured, despite the photographer taking a group picture which I was sure they would use. Then on Friday morning one of our taxi drivers at work called over on the radio and told me he had just seen a sign outside a shop on an A board with the Daily Echo headline "How I lost 12 stone in a year!" That person was me. It turns out I had not only made the paper but there was a link to me on the front page and my story was on page 3!!! Who thought I would ever be a page 3 girl eh? LOL!!!!

I've included the link here for you to see the article yourself. I have had nothing but positive feed back about it and I cannot tell you how much that means to me. I also had a call from a national paper but we have agreed to talk again when I get to goal. It will give me the incentive that I need to get there.

Let me know what you think of the article.

Vicky xx

Where did October go?

2007-11-03T23:59:00.000Z

It feels like just the other day that I was writing my entry for the end of September and here we are at the beginning of November already.

October was a brilliant month for me. I had 5 weigh Ins and I managed to lose a whole 14lbs. I was very focused because I celebrated 1 year of following the plan on the 19th and I wanted to get to 14 stone 3lbs by then so that I could say I weighed than 200lbs. I managed this. Also, Tash and I have been going to circuits on a Sunday (more about that in a minute) and that really helps. In total I have now lost 168.5lbs and weigh 13 stone 6.5lbs.

I have changed my exercise routine slightly over the past month. I did try lots of different classes but I found the only one I really enjoy is circuits, which is the hardest one. As a result of this I have been going to the gym again and doing a fair amount of work there. I've already mentioned that Tash and I are regularly going to circuits now and I've decided that anything that causes you to sweat that much on the day before WI has to be good for you.

I've really noticed a change in my shape in the past few weeks. I now have lumps and bumps in the right places and I can feel bones that I never knew I ha d. It's all great for the confidence and motivation isn't it?

My aims for November are to get into the 12s, which would also bring in my 175lb mark and complete my autumn seasons challenge target, which was to also get into the 12s. This was something I I'd originally planned to do by Christmas so I will be very happy to get there. I'm also going to really try and start running again. My circuits class involves running and this has to help but I want to be able to run for a while relatively comfortably at a reasonable pace.

Wish me luck.

Vicky xx

I used to be...

2007-11-02T21:52:00.000Z

This person that I did not like and now I've realised why. It is because I was fat, lonely and had no life! Don't get me wrong, I had friends but my life was boring and I did not have any self respect.

It has taken me a lot to think I could write this entry but I've come to see that I can only move on with my life if I embrace my demons and apologise to those that I've hurt along the way. Of course, that is not something I can do on a blog entry but it is something I will get around to doing in time.

Society as a whole frowns upon those of us that are unfortunate to be obese and not a perfect size 10 and I used to think that was the main reason that I never had friends, because I was "fat" and who wants to be friends with a fat girl? However, I was wrong and kidding myself. I would not have wanted to be friends with me as I was then. I was rude, selfish, boring and like I said, did not even like me.

Since I have lost weight I have realised that a lot of my problems come from two very personal things that happened to me in my late teens and early 20s. I won't go into them but they are both related to men and both led me to gaining a lot of weight. It took me a long long time to move over them but I am over them and it is time to move on.

I've also come to realise that I do not like my job anymore which leads me to probably not performing the best I can at it. I have decided that I will really make an effort at work now but also I shall begin searching for another job, but I shall not leave my current one until I find the right one for me.

I have a life now and it is one I do not intend to ruin, sit back and let pass me by again. Life is for living and that is exactly what I am going to do. THE TIME IS NOW!!!

Vicky xx

WI Result (29th October 2007) and meeting

2007-10-29T22:16:00.000Z

Well first things first, I lost 3lbs. That means I have now lost 12 stone and half a pound so my mini goal this week was beaten by half a pound. I'm not setting any mini goals for next week. I simply want to get to the 12s by the end of November. I can do that I think.

As you know we had a Halloween themed meeting this week. It was a great success. The hall looked really good with all our pumpkins and decorations and everyone made an effort to dress up.
I know you are dying to know who our special guest was. Well, it was Karen (Madgranny) from the WW forums. I have got to know Karen very well through emails etc and it was wonderful to meet her and her husband in person this evening, even though it was very frantic at the meeting. Karen's husband very kindly read her speech out to the class as she has lost her voice.

We had pumpkin soup, pumpkin pies, witches broomsticks and Halloween cup cakes at meeting as well as a raffle and a fun quiz on the tables for people to do. I think everyone had a good time. I have posted a couple of pictures here for you to see (thanks Deb and Lucie for taking them).

The other news I have is that local paper is going to run my story so far within the next day or so. I am SO nervous!!! The photographer came along tonight to take my picture and I have emailed them before pictures and spoke to someone about my journey so far.

Vicky xx

A typical day!!! (menu plans)

2007-10-28T09:47:00.000Z

As Weightwatchers goes, yesterday was pretty much a perfect day for me so I thought I'd finally get round to doing a post on what I eat. OK, here goes:

This is my menu for yesterday:

Breakfast:

30g of rice crispies with skimmed milk - 2.5 points

Mid Morning snack:

1 medium sized banana - 2 points

Lunch:

Tuna and mayo sandwich on WW bread , no spread - 3.5 points
WW black cherry yoghurt - 1 point

Mid Afternoon snack:

Half a tin of pears and half a tin of peaches in natural juice - 2 points

Dinner:

Cheese and spinach lasagne from Simply Autumn cookbook (serves 2 at 5.5 points per serving but added an extra point for extra cheese) - 6.5 points
WW Chocolate and raspberry fusion - 3.5 points (not worth the points though as did not like it)

Total points: 21 (my points are 21)

My days are simply variations on this. I do like sandwiches and so tend to have these for work most days although if I want to save points for dinner, I will have soup. Sometimes breakfast will be cornflakes, weetabix or oats so simple instead of rice crispies but I do try and stick to 2.5 - 3 points for breakfast. I've been trying to cook recently so have been doing WW cookbook recipes for dinner although sometimes if I am in a rush I do confess to cheating and having a readymeal. I also do simply things such as chicken, potatoes and vegetables or salad. I am lucky in that I like most foods so am pretty adaptable. Of course, normally I do not have desert so the 3.5 points I wasted on the horrible fusion would be used for potatoes and vegetables. I do point my veg as I know what it does to me if I don't.

I am also lucky in that I don't drink much alcohol so do not waste points on this.

I think the biggest thing that helps me is that I do a lot of exercise and although I must earn lots of bonus points, I do not count them or use them. Also, I make sure I drink plenty of water during the course of a day.

I hope this helps you.

Vicky xxx

I'm very excited...

2007-10-27T10:32:00.000+01:00

About my meeting this Monday night. We are having a Halloween themed meeting. Fancy dress is optional but I have the things to dress up as a witch and I know Marie and a few of the others are dressing up as well. We are doing food from Weightwatcher recipes such as pumpkin soup, pumpkin pies, witches broomsticks and Halloween cupcakes and there will also be some spooky music and decorations, including pumpkins.

However, what I am most looking forward to is the fact that we have a very special guest coming to our meeting to tell her story. She is known to many of you reading this, especially those that post on 5+. I won't ruin the surprise by telling you who but it will be wonderful to meet her. We are also hoping that the local press will be interested in our "witching hour!"

Hopefully I will be able to get some pictures of the evening. I do know that this week I have been really good in the hope of having a 2.5lb loss to take me to that 12 stone off mark. After all, our special guest will need to know my WI result!!! However, TOTM has arrived and with those 3 good losses I am not sure it can be done. Still, I'm still going to have a great weekend in the hope that it can.

Vicky xxx

My goals this week...

2007-10-23T20:48:00.001+01:00

Are very simple. They are:

To not be lazy, and
To try all I can to lose 2.5lbs so I have lost 12 stone.

Although I've have 3 really good losses in a row now (3lbs, 3.5lbs and 4lbs), I've become a bit complacent in the gym recently, i.e. I've not been very much. I went to the actual gym gym once last week and once the week before although last week I did manage to go swimming on Friday night and to circuits on Sunday with Tasha. Circuits is probably the best exercise I do as, although it is very hard, I sweat so much so surely that has to be good for fat burning right? I think the darker evenings have made me just want to go straight home from work ans snuggle up in my PJ's but I can't afford to do that every night, not only because exercise helps my weightloss but also because I am trying very hard to get fit and if I don't exercise even just for a few days, I do notice the difference. So this week I will go the gym Wednesday and Thursday evening after work as well as Saturday and Sunday morning and also to swimming on Friday evening and circuit training again on Sunday.

I've also become a bit lazy with walking and have been taking the car when I can or getting a lift or the bus. This week I pledge to go for a walk around the block every lunch time and, if I get time I will also try to go for a walk at the weekend, even if it is just walking to and from the gym.

All this exercise this week will hopefully help towards my other goal of losing 2.5lbs. I'm not sure I can do it after the previous 3 weeks but I've had my treat this week (plum and almond square) and if I watch my sugar intake for the rest of the week, I should be able to give it a really good shot.

Wish me luck.

Vicky xxx

The plum and almond squares

2007-10-23T05:51:00.000+01:00

For those of you that go to meetings I am sure you will have seen the plum and almond square recipe towards the back of the irresistible magazine. I brought the ingredients to make them last week and my parents and everyone at work loved them.

At the weekend I went and brought enough stuff to make 48 of them to take to meeting this week. It was an expensive shopping trip though as on the back from Tesco I hit a deer and there is a £200 excess on the insurance. However, the important this is I am ok and was not hurt and on Saturday evening I made the squares.

The squares went down very well at meeting last night and if you are thinking of making them, I would really recommend it. If you don't go to meeting but would like a copy of the recipe email me at vicky@weightlosschallenges.co.uk and I'll send you a copy by email. It won't be for a couple of days or maybe until the weekend though.

I have a few squares left and rather than eat them, I am going to take them to work! They will eat them!!!!

Vicky xxx

My WI result (22nd October 2007)

2007-10-22T21:48:00.000+01:00

Lost 3lbs this week. I really am very surprised as I have had two great losses (3.5lbs last week and 4lbs the week before) and I was expecting a 0.5lb this week. Anyway, of course I will happily accept it. Another 2.5lbs will see me having lost 12 stone in total. I hope to get there next week or the week after.

Will post more later in the week. Hope everyone is well.

Vicky xx

Sizes matters!!!

2007-10-21T21:17:00.000+01:00

I'm talking about clothes here. When I started WW I was a size 32. Actually, I was probably more like a 34 or 36 but Evans or my catalogue do not go up to that size so I squeezed into size 32 and even size 30.

I have no idea what size I am at the moment. What I mean is I'm around about a size 18 but that depends on the shop, make, style and all the rest. In Evans I am a size 20, 18 and 16! Infact, a couple of t-shirts that I brought in Evans in a size 20 ages ago still do not quite fit (they will do in another half a stone). However, I'm writing this in a size 16 smock style top from Evans which fits perfectly so where is the sense in that?

I've spoken about my size 18 "skinny" jeans already. I brought them from Bon Marche along with two pairs of black trousers (different styles). The trousers fit well despite the legs maybe getting a bit loose now. The size 16 black and grey trousers I brought in Evans last week are also a perfect fit.

Years ago I brought a black dress. I was on the verge of "giving up" at my attempt of Weightwatchers that time. I wore it for the first and last time to my nan's funeral. That was early December 1996 and it was a little too tight so I hang it up and never wore it again. Last weekend I tried it on and it fitted ok. This weekend I tried it on with some accessories as I planned to wear it to the dart presentation at the end of November and now IT IS TOO BIG!! It is a size 22! Where is the sense in that?

Who wants to be a bigger size then they actually are though? I really do believe that clothes manufacturers should think about that and standardise their sizes. It would make us all feel so much better about the size we are. What do you think?

A year ago today....

2007-10-19T21:23:00.000+01:00

I made a decision that changed my life forever. I decided to rejoin Weightwatchers yet again.

I stood outside the hall and smoked a cigarette before going in to join and I was shaking so much as I filled in the forms, paid my money and got weighed. Fiona, the leader was lovely and put me at ease straightaway. Despite having done Weightwatchers countless times before I stayed for the new member talk at the end and when I got home I threw away all the unhealthy food. I was however very surprised to lose 13lbs in the first week but it just goes to show how much rubbish I was eating before.

Fiona left after I had been going for a few weeks and Diane, the next leader did not stay very long.

I reached my 10% milestone in December (36lbs) and in January not only did I give up smoking but I also received my 50lb certificate from Elaine, who stood in as leader for a couple of weeks. Then at the beginning of February Marie took over the meetings and my weightloss continued at a steady speed. I achieved my 75lb target in March and shortly after that I did something I have not done since late 1998, I weighed less than 20 stone. In March I also joined the gym and not only that, I enjoyed it.

In May I became a helper at my meeting and also achieved my 100lb certificate. In June I went on holiday and managed to maintain. I've never not put on weight on holiday before.

Marie gave up our Sholing meeting in August but I moved to another meeting run by her. It was at this meeting that I recorded my 10 stone loss. However, I only attended this class for 2 weeks before transferring to a busier meeting, also run by Marie.

Since then I've achieved my 150lb certificate and got to know Marie fairly well. I've helped at other meetings too. I've lost 162.5lbs in total to date and am finally feeling that I've cracked this and will not only get to goal, but stay there.

My life is completely different to how it used to be. I first walked into Weightwatchers with my head down and did not speak to anyone. On Wednesday of this week I stood up in front of a Weightwatcher meeting and told my story. I could never have done that before. This time last year I could barely walk but now I walk as much as possible. I'm feeling fit and I am able to buy clothes from "normal" shops for the first time in many years.

Weightwatchers has become a way of life for me now and I hope that the next 12 months will see me get to goal. I certainly won't ever get back to the weight I was this time last year that is for sure.

Vicky xxx

The tale of my skinny jeans!!!

2007-10-17T06:01:00.000+01:00

I don't know if I am happy or sad at the moment. A few entries ago I spoke of my straight waisted "skinny" jeans and even had the picture to show. I think I lived in these jeans when they fitted, which incidentally was for 2 weeks 6 days.

It struck me on Wednesday of last week that the legs were getting a bit long and by Thursday I worked out why. BECAUSE THEY ARE GETTING TOO BIG!!!

I've washed these jeans in the hope that they will shrink and be wearable for a few more weeks but on Monday I went and brought some size 16s. They are a bit tight but I suspect I'll be wearing them sooner than I thought.

My WI result (15th October 2007)

2007-10-15T22:14:00.000+01:00

I was determined to have a good week this week. I really wanted to lose 2.5lbs to get me into the next stone and so I could say I had less than 50lbs to go to get to goal.

Despite having a roast turkey dinner with all the trimmings and fruit crumble with custard for pudding yesterday I managed a 3.5lb loss this week. That makes me to 13 stone 12.5lbs, to my 23rd silver seven and also means I have only 48.5lbs to go to a healthy BMI, which is my first goal.

This week I am going to make sure I do some exercise and try and be good as possible after two good losses. I'm not going to set the world alight this week but if I can lose 1lb I'll be very happy. After all, my next little target is my 12 stone loss, 5.5lbs to go and it all helps along the way doesn't it?

Vicky xxx

Mum and I

2007-10-14T20:20:00.000+01:00

Every year my family all go on holiday to Devon, although this year was probably our last year of all going together. My stepfather always insists on taking loads of pictures and in years past, I'd have deleted them or just hidden from the camera in the first place. This year when we went in June was probably the first year ever that I have not hidden from the camera.

Today, we took a day trip to Devon as Mum wanted to buy something in a particular shop in Dawlish and I wanted to go to Brixham on a special mission (it is top secret). I actually asked my stepfather to take a picture today.

I added some pictures here. One was taken on holiday last year, one was taken on holiday this year (In June) and one was taken today. I think you will be able to work out which was taken when. I've also added a side by side comparison and all I can say to that is OH MY GOD!!!!

I'll be back with my WI result tomorrow. Hope you have all had a great weekend.

Vicky xxx

It's been 13 lbs...

2007-10-13T16:40:00.000+01:00

Since I showed any last comparison pictures so I got some more taken today. WOW! I never realised that 13lbs would make such a difference.

So in the first picture (from the back) I've added the comparisons from last time. I was 15 stone 13 in the first shot, 15 stone in the second shot and I'm 14 stone 2 this week (although if the scales are to be believed in the gym this morning I've lost a great amount this week). Infact, the same can be said for all these pictures.

I'm so happy with my weightloss now. Today I tried on a black dress that I wore once in December 1996 and that was to my nan's funeral so I wore it for a few hours only. It looks great and when I lose a few more lbs it will look even better so I'm going to try and wear it to mum's dart presentation at the end of November. I hope it is not too big by then.

Let me know what you think of the pictures.

Vicky xxx

My Christmas target

2007-10-12T05:54:00.000+01:00

I've decided that I need an ambitious target to get me though to Christmas. I am going to take a deep breath and aim for 12 stone 7lbs. This will take me to within 4lbs of being simply "overweight" so I would be absolutely delighted with this. 11 years ago I got to roughly this weight before I gave up so I'd be delighted to get here as I know I was looking good.

I am trying very hard to lose 2.5lbs this week as I know it will take me to the 13s. Also, it will take me to less than 50lbs to go until a healthy BMI. A healthy BMI is something I have only ever dreamed off and have never had, although I did get to within a couple of pounds of it in 1992.

After I get past 13 stone 13.5lbs I'll be aiming for 13 stone 7 as this will mean I have lost 12 stone. Then I'll aim for 12 stone 13lbs to get me into the 12s and 12 stone 9lbs which will see me having lost 50% of my body weight. WOW!!!

On 20th December we are having our works Christmas party at the Jury's Inn hotel. I am determined that I'll be looking good for then. My boss told me yesterday I should buy a "frock" (who uses that word anymore?) to wear. I've never worn a "frock" in my life so I don't think so!!! However, I have got a top in mind that I would love to wear. I'll keep you posted.

Vicky xxx

My WI Result (8th October)

2007-10-08T21:45:00.000+01:00

Very pleased to say I lost 4lb this week. I am delighted as it takes me to 14 stone 2lbs AND (stop press) I now weigh less than 200lbs so I have completed my little target of getting to less than 200lbs by 19th October 2007, my Weightwatching anniversary.

I've now lost 159lbs in total (11 stone 5lbs) and it strikes me that there are lots of people who join WW's who weigh less than this. This all helps me to feel good.

Right everyone, after a good week just recently I have found I slack a bit and loss 0.5lb or similar the following week. Not sure I will get into the 13s for next week but I'm going to try.

I'll set some new mini goals for later on in the week. For now I am going to enjoy my dinner and the WW choc and orange biscuits I brought at meeting tonight.

Vicky xx

7 more Weigh In's...

2007-10-07T16:57:00.001+01:00

If you have been following my blog throughout you may recall that I used to play for and be captain of a darts team in a league run by my mum. I stopped playing about three years ago to concentrate on my Open University degree. However, I still keep in contact with that team and one of them works with me now (I got her the job).

I saw the rest of the team for the first time in ages at a presentation in early June. I'd lost 7.5 stone since they had last seen me. Then early in August I went to a match to have my picture taken with Helen, who weighed what I had then lost.

Since then I've lost another 17lbs and I'm avoiding all of them as on 24th November the league has another presentation and I want them to all be surprised at how much more I have lost.

My aim is to get to as close to 12 stone 13lbs by then as possible. I know I won't get there as with 21lbs to lose, it is too much but if I could get into the low 13s I will be very happy.

There are a lot of people in the dart league that I know and at the last presentation in June I got a lot of nice comments so it would be very nice to get lots more. No doubt I'll have to buy something new to wear as all my clothes will be too big. Whoever said losing weight does not have to be expensive eh?

4 stone to go...

2007-10-07T16:47:00.000+01:00

Until I have a healthy BMI!! Who would have thought when I stood on those scales for the first time I would ever be saying that? Back then I had 15 stone and 1lb to lose but that was then and things have definitely changed since then.

Last Thursday I helped Marie at a different meeting as he usual helpers were on holiday. It was a very nice meeting. I'd taken my book with me which has some before pictures in and you can imagine everyone's surprise when they were told how much I had lost and then saw the pictures. I realised that I'm loving people's reactions now and I can't imagine having ever been that big anymore. One thing I do know is that I'll never be that big again. Infact, I'll never let myself get even to the size I am now although any future pregnancies might have a say in that.

I've drawn myself a chart so I can cross off the lbs on my way down to a healthy BMI. Infact I have drawn two as I have one to my personal goal as well although this might change when I get there.

My WI Result (1st October 2007)

2007-10-01T22:13:00.000+01:00

0.5lbs off for me this week. I expect many would be disappointed with that but I am actually very happy as it is TOTM and it arrived very rudely and has left me feeling very bloated and "fat" which is quite funny really. I know I am fat (I really do hate that word) but I am sure you all know what I mean.

Anyway, I now have exactly 4 stone to go to get to a healthy BMI. WOW, just 56lbs! That sounds so good.

Only a short entry for me tonight as I am off to bed so goodnight and I'll post more soon.

Vicky xxx

Wake me up when September ends!!!

2007-09-30T06:42:00.000+01:00

Ok so it is all but over and there is a more autumn like feel all around now. The mornings are getting darker which makes it very hard to get up in the mornings.

I set out in September to complete my Summer seasons challenge target of 28lbs which I did and more as I lost 35.5lbs, to get my 150lb certificate which I also did and to lose as much weight as possible which I managed 14lbs due to a combination of not having sugar cravings and changing my exercise routines ever so slightly.

In September I decided to try some different exercise classes and I tried circuits, total workout and g cycle. I enjoyed all of them and will be going to them all on a regular basis now. I believe it is important to change routines and give your body a shock from time to time and doing this has certainly helped. This was brought about mainly because I was getting bored of the gym and was finding aqua aerobics is getting a little bit easy now. I've didn't go to an aqua class last week and I won't be able to this week because of "lady reasons" so I'll probably give it a miss for a few weeks / months now and see how I get on.

I also decided that I need to learn to cook and so I invested in the new Simply Autumn cookbook last week. So far I have only done spinach and cheese lasagne from it which was very nice and today I am doing the soothing chicken soup. I also baked some cookies for my WW meeting from an online recipe and the chicken and sweetcorn pie from the fast and fab cookbook.

My ongoing New Year resolutions and goals for 2007 of giving up smoking, getting fit and losing as much weight as possible are all going very well and I've now been a non smoker for 4 days short of 9 months which I am very happy with.

For October, as well as start the Christmas shopping, not that there is much point as it is my turn to work all day Christmas day - I'm not complaining, had the last 3 off) I am going to first of all get to 14 stone 3 (I am currently 14 6.5) which will take me to weighing less than 200lbs and then I am going to get to 13 stone 13, hopefully by my WW anniversary on 19th October. I will also carry on trying different fitness classes , learning to cook and generally changing my life for the better.

Enjoy October and try not to think about Christmas too much.

Vicky xxx

WI result 24th September 2007

2007-09-24T21:56:00.000+01:00

This week I managed to lose 4.5lbs. I am so happy with this because I have been good and I was very good last week and lost 1lb. It now means I have lost 154.5lbs in total which in real terms is 11 stone and 1/2lb. I would also like to add that to get to a goal of 9 stone 7 which I might settle for as my ultimate goal I now have less than 5 stone to lose.

Tonight I've just had a treat after dinner and on Wednesday I am out for dinner after work so I'm being good the rest of the week. I'll be happy with any loss this week.

Anyway that's it from me for this evening. I keep promising I'll write a tracker to post on here and I will try and do that next week. It certainly won't be this week though as I forgot to get one at meeting so I'll use my journal and hope for the best.

Vicky xx

Skinny Jeans

2007-09-22T19:07:00.000+01:00

I thought I'd post these two pictures as today I wore a pair of size 18 bootleg jeans. Two very big NSV's involved here. Last Saturday they were too small for me and today they fit so hopefully a good WI result is coming my way on Monday. Also they make my legs look almost skinny! I had to get pictures taken and post them for you all to see. Get this as well, the jeans are straight waist and the size 20 part elasticated ones that I brought 4 weeks ago are falling down on me! It all helps make us feel good doesn't it?

14 weeks til Christmas

2007-09-19T06:02:00.000+01:00

How scary is that thought! I guess it's time to think about presents and getting organised soon. Still, at least if anyone asks what I want this year I can just say clothes. I think I'll be needing them.

If someone had said to me this time last year that I'd be trying to get into the 12s for Christmas 2007 I'd have suggested they get help!!!! However, I've decided that is exactly what I am aiming for, 12 stone 7 to be exact, 32lbs!!!! I'm not sure if it is possible but I'm certainly going to give it a good try.

On my shopping trip on Saturday I brought a top in Evans for £5. I had the top in a size 26 before (I am wearing it in the picture) and I paid £32 for it. The problem is it is a size 16 and I can barely barely get it over my boobs! However, our works Christmas do is 20th December so I am really going to try and get into it by then.

My WI Result (17th September 2007)

2007-09-17T22:24:00.000+01:00

Well I did it. I lost 1lb this week which means I have now lost 150lbs in total and weigh 14 stone 11lbs. It was hard work this week but it was worth it in the end to get the certificate for having lost 150lbs. Onwards and downwards I go and my next certificate will come at 200lbs, 50lbs to go then (11 stone 3).

However I am not going to think about that for now. I am going to concentrate on getting the 4lbs off that I need to get 11 stone gone, then the 4lbs I need after that to get 3/4s of the way to a healthy BMI and to weigh under 200lbs.

This week it looks like I am going to a circuits class on Sunday with two of the others from my meeting if there are spaces left that is. That will make up for aqua which I have to miss on Wednesday evening. I'm going to be really really good this week and see if I can lose a couple of lbs towards my mini goals. Wish me luck.

Vicky xxx

14 stone 3...

2007-09-17T16:51:00.000+01:00

Is my next mini goal. Before tonight's WI I have 9lbs to go so I am going to try my hardest to do this by my WI on 8th October. This means I have 4 WI's including tonight to do it.

The reason this is a big milestone for me is not only because will I weigh less than 200lbs for the first time since 1996 but I will also have lost 3/4s of the weight I needed to lose to get to a healthy BMI.

I'll have another mini goal at 14 stone as this will mean I have 50lbs to go to a healthy BMI, after that I'll be aiming for the 13s and then I'll work out some more mini goals to keep me going up to Christmas, which is only 14 weeks away you will be horrified to hear!!! Scary!!!!

62lbs until I get to a healthy BMI!!!

2007-09-17T16:33:00.000+01:00

It might sound so much to you but trust me, to me it sounds so little.

When I started Weightwatchers I needed to lose 211lbs to get to a healthy BMI. I've currently lost 149lbs although with Weigh In tonight, I'm confident I can get my 150lb loss up tonight and hence have 61lbs to lose.

I know I'm still "fat" and with a BMI of 36 I am still classed as obese but just recently I have been able to look at myself in the mirror again and admit I have lost a lot of weight and that is really showing and yes, I look so much better for it. I can even look at pictures now of myself without hating them and from behind I look almost "normal!"

I think there are two or three major things that are making me feel good about things at the moment. One of these is that I am no longer the biggest person I know. I know there are lots of people who weigh more than me but I was 8 stone more than mum at one stage and in pictures taken of us together last year I look massive next to her. On holiday in June I look the same size but in pictures taken the other night I can see that I look smaller than her and I could not remember the last time I can say that. I've added the pictures here for you all to see.

Another thing that is making me feel good is clothes size. I'm now buying trousers in an 18, again something I could only dream about this time last year. It is such a big step to not to have to buy a 20 something top and it feels great, especially considering that size 32s were too tight for me when I joined Weightwatchers.

What makes me the happiest most of all though is knowing I can do this and I WILL DO IT!!! For so long I have battled my weight and lost the fight. Not this time though, the finishing line may not yet me in sight but it is not all that far away and the day that I cross it will be a great day in so many ways.

Vicky xxx

Last night!!

2007-09-16T11:38:00.000+01:00

Last night I went out to my parents local social club with them and some friends to watch a 70s glamrock band called The Look. They were brilliant. If you want to read more about them go to www.lookglam.com

Anyway, I went out especially to buy a top to wear as I had nothing to wear. I'm buying tops for evenings out as I need them as I don't see the point in buying clothes just for the sake of it that will only fit me for a few weeks at the most. I also took my camera to get some photos of people making fools of themselves as I was driving and was sober enough to do you.

You know how it is on some evenings out when you are sober, totally boring and sometimes you just "don't get it!" Well not last night. It was great and I had a brilliant time and as you can see from the pictures, got into the spirit of things.

My friend called just now to say thanks for a great evening. Unfortunately he is in trouble with his girlfriend for getting very drunk and he apparently banged his head which he does not remember doing. A good time had by all I am sure you will agree.

Enjoy the pictures.

Vicky xxx

My WI Result (10th September 2007)

2007-09-10T22:34:00.000+01:00

Another 2lb loss this week so I've now lost 149lbs in total and am 5lbs away from 11 stone lost in total to date.

However a major thing has dawned on me this evening...

"I WEIGH 14 STONE SOMETHING!!!"

That sounds so much less to me than 15 stone something, stupid I know but I am so happy.

This is a short entry as I am off to bed but just wanted to share my result with you all. Next week it is all out for 150lb certificate. Wish me luck and hope all your WIs went/go well.

Vicky xxxx

New Pictures and comparisions

2007-09-09T14:39:00.000+01:00

Below are some pictures of me. please can you give your opinions on them.

The ones with me in the England shirt were all taken yesterday.

The one where I am in the white trousers was taken when I was at my heaviest, approx 3 months before I joined Weightwatchers. Of course I know there is a BIG difference from these two pictures.
The other two are taken 1 stone apart and it would be interesting to see how many of you think there is a difference. I think there is a slight difference but what do you think?

Thanks in advance for the comments.

Vicky xxx

New to Weightwatchers? Here are my hints and tips.

2007-09-09T13:56:00.000+01:00

There have been a lot of new people reading my blog lately and posting on the Weightwatchers forum. I imagine this is due to the monthly pass which allows you to find the forums. Welcome to you and thank you to EVERYONE for reading my blog.

A lot of new people regularly ask for hints and tips on the forums and a lot of people (old and new) ask how I have so far managed to lose 10 and a half stone. For that reason I have decided to write an entry on here with all my hints and tips on. If anyone reading this thinks it might help someone else in the future, please do not be afraid to pass on the link or my email address (vicky_radford@hotmail.co.uk). OK, here goes...

It is not easy - So many times in the past I've thought that signing up to Weightwatchers is enough to make it happen. It is not, you have to work at it and it takes time.
Take time to read the information available to you - Whether it is in the form of booklets from your meeting or electronically take time to familiarise yourself with it and learn the programme.
If there is anything you are not sure about do not hesitate to ask - Whether it is at your meeting, through your leader or other members, Weightwatcher customer service or on the forums do ask any questions. They may seem silly to you but someone else may benefit too and there is always someone who knows the answer.
If you can, make the most of the Weightwatcher forums -I find so much support, inspiration, encouragement, hints & tips not mention friendship from everyone on the forums, especially on 5+.
Take the advice from the programme - i.e. cut down and/or limit sugary snacks or food. I have an anti sugar thing going on at the moment but I do find if I eat too much sugar that I lose less weight that week. This does include too much fruit so do try to have veg as the majority of your 5 a day.
Drink plenty of water - I make sure I drink 2 litres of water a day on top of tea, coffee and other drinks. Not only does this aid weight loss but it flushes out the toxins in your body and my skin has felt so much better since I have been drinking it.
Get moving - It does not have to be a lot but every little helps. It may be walking the kids to school instead of taking the car or going swimming. I have taken it a bit to the extreme because I love exercise but you do not have to do that. Do the amount that is right for you and try to gradually build it up over time.
If you are worried about excess skin there is lots you can do to fight it. Every one's skin texture is different so what works for one may not work for another but I've lost 10 and a half stone to date and apart from a little on my arms and tops of my legs, I do not have much, although there is still time for this to happen. I am terrified that one day I'll need surgery to remove the skin so I think I'd rather have a bit of excess skin than be "fat", In the meantime though there are things we can all do to help the skin shrink. These include exercise, drinking water, using a body brush, using a firming lotion and eating a healthy balanced diet. Finally on the subject of excess skin I would say don't panic. It can take up to 2 years for skin to realise it needs to catch up so be prepared to give it time.
Be wary of veg - Not a major thing but although veg is free food, it does have some calories in it. A friend of mine stayed the same recently and when she worked out the points of all her veg that week she was having 3.5points extra a day. Just something to be aware of.
If you have a bad day/week/month/whatever learn to draw a line under it and move on ________________________________________________________________ There, it's easy really. If you go over points what is the point in giving up? I find it helps me to physically draw the line and learn from what has happened. Then put it down to experience and move on. What is the point in beating yourself up over it?
Finally remember this - If you give up this time, in 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 1 year or whenever you will only want/have to lose weight again. The longer you leave it, the more weight you will have put on and have to lose again. Is there any point? Surely it is better to have a bad day, draw that line and get back into things? Last time I "gave up" I put on over 5 stone, as per the before. In fact, I can't remember how many times I've lost and gained that 5 stone. Why? Because I wanted something nice to eat or because I could not be bothered. We all owe ourselves more respect from that. BY CHEATING THE ONLY PERSON WE ARE CHEATING IS OURSELVES!!!

I really do hope this helps you, whether you are first timers or old handers to my blog. Of course not everything works for everyone but these are just somethings that have helped me and that I thought I would share with you.

If we stop making excuses and follow the programme we can achieve our goals and think how proud we'll all be of ourselves and each other when we get there.

Good luck with your journey. Please let me know how you are doing and whether this helps you. I look forward to hearing from you.

Vicky xxx

My WI Result (3rd September 2007)

2007-09-03T21:54:00.000+01:00

Another week , another meeting. The Bursledon meeting is lovely and I'm looking forward to Tasha, my partner in crime being back next week.

Anyway after TOTM and my STS last week I'm very pleased to report an excellent 6.5lb loss this week. That takes me to 147lbs lost in total so far, just 3lb away from my 150lb certificate and I weigh exactly 15 stone, WOW!!!

Not much else I can say really is there? I knew I'd been good but I never expected that. I'm still smiling so much!!!

Vicky xxx

10 reasons....

2007-09-03T18:26:00.001+01:00

For losing weight:

To look and feel good.
To improve my health and fitness.
To regain my confidence.
To be able to buy clothes anywhere.
For sense of achievement.
To stop people staring at me.
To not feel embarrassed when going out.
To be able to sit in seats comfortably again (ie garden seats, airplane seats etc).
To be happy.
To enjoy life.

I need help

2007-09-03T17:53:00.000+01:00

I've always had a weight problem and as you will will have read (if you have been following my blog throughout) I've "dieted" many times before with various degrees of success. Although I've weighed less in the past, this has been the most I have ever lost in one go before. It has also been the most successful I have ever been.

However, this is the crucial time for me because I'm having a bit of a wobble. I know many of you reading this will be saying "Vic, what are you on about, you've done so well!" but I've not been feeling mentally strong just lately for various reasons (that I won't go into at the moment). I think this, combined with TOTM led to my STS last week which for me is a bad result because I really needed a loss as I was feeling a bit down in the dumps.

Anyhow, in the past I would have carried on being down in the dumps after WI and this in turn would have led to me letting things spiral and to eventually giving up. It sounds a bit over the top I know but that is the way I am. I knew I had to do something to stop this happening because I really want to do this this time.

Straight after the meeting last Wednesday evening I could have gone home and wallowed in my own self pity but when I got into the car I had a little word with myself and decided not to become a failure but to become a success story. I pointed the car in the direction of the Leisure Centre and went to aqua aerobics , showing anyone who wanted to see them my before pictures whilst we were getting ready.

It's been a strange week because as I mentioned before my meetings are changing to a Monday from today so I've effectively only had 5 days to turn things around and banking points has been a bit weird. However, I have banked points which I will scrap straight after WI in a little while. I've also earned lots of bonus points through exercise and, if the scales at the gym and at home are to be believed, I should be in a good result so I am keeping everything crossed.

I titled this entry I need help because I do. I am petrified at being 25 stone 7lbs again. I'm terrified of even weighing more than I weigh now again. I get a lot of help from myself by purely looking at pictures at what I used to look like and remembering what I used to look like and from my family who understand that I need to do this now. Marie, my leader also gives me a lot of help and support by believing in me and allowing me to be a helper at her meetings. It has enabled me to meet lots of great people and make some good friends. Without knowing it Wendy, my aqua aerobics instructor, Hazel, Vera and lots of others from my aqua classes have helped me too by asking me how I get on and congratulations me each week. Everyone who reads this blogs and leaves comments helps me because it is nice to know others are in the same situation as me and the lovely people off the Weightwatcher forums help me with all the friendship, support, motivation and encouragement that is around. The 5+ forum is a major factor in why I have done so well .

So if you see me about on the boards a lot at the moment, it's because I need "help". So say hello and stop for a chat. I don't get lots and lots of spare time but I do try and post whenever i can. You can also add me to msn. Just email me your address to vicky@weightlosschallenges.co.uk and I will add you to my msn account and if I can help anyone in anyway, please do not be afraid to ask.

Vicky xxx

The Summer is over, another month gone

2007-09-01T13:36:00.000+01:00

Ok I was being generous when I said the summer is over. Did it ever start? Next year I am definitely going somewhere hot and sunny on holiday as I really feel like I need some sun for a week or so, I'll probably go and visit my dad in Benidorm!

8 months of the year down already. Where does the time go? Not much has changed in August really, I'm still a non smoker, I'm still enjoying the gym and I'm still losing weight.

I did set out to get my 10 stone lost in August which I did. However, I also set out to go to a Pilate's class but I did not get there as I decided that I would give it a miss for a bit. I also changed meetings which I have spoken about in other posts on this blog. However, from next week I am changing again to a Monday as my leader cannot do the Wednesday evening class anymore and I don't want to change leaders really at the moment. Marie picked me up off the floor after the "horrible leader incident" (read December 2006 and January 2007 for more details) and I'd love to repay her by getting to goal with her.

For September my goals will be to get my 150lb certificate, to complete my Summer seasons target (hopefully this week) and to generally lose as much as I can towards my Weightwatching anniversary target of the 13s by October 19th. Wish me luck, I'll give it a go.

Vicky xxx

My WI result (29th August 2007)

2007-08-29T22:07:00.000+01:00

A combination of "time of the month" and a little celebrating after last weeks result, not to mention sugar cravings meant I recorded a stay the same this week. I am not disappointed because we all know how nasty time of the month can be but it has made me determined to get firmly back on that wagon and have a good result next week.

Talking of next week, I'm changing meetings again and from next week I'll be weighing in on a Monday which suits me better anyway as it means I'll hopefully stay on the straight and narrow over the weekends, something I normally suffer with. I'll still be a helper at a meeting held by Marie, just on a different day of the week.

Anyway, its short and sweet as I've been to aqua aerobics after WI and now it is time for bed.

Tomorrow I am taking all my WeightWatcher books to work for a re-read to hopefully get my head back into things properly.

Hope everyone is well.

Vicky xxx

P.S, this horrible before picture has been put here to show myself what I do not want to go back to again!!!

My 5 week challenge

2007-08-28T05:59:00.000+01:00

I must be mad but I am giving myself just 5 weeks to lose 1 stone.

I normally average 1 stone every 5 weeks and I feel I need a little challenge to keep me on track over the next few weeks as sweet things are starting to be introduced back into my diet and I know how dangerous this could be for me. So from now my only treat each day will be a Weightwatcher rich toffee bar or similiar.

I do not expect to have a great Weigh In this week and will be happy with 1 lb but after that I will have to be very good to reach my stone lost. This will be mean that I have until the 28th September to do this, it is tough but I shall give it a good try. Keep checking back for my progress.

Vicky xxx

Ten Stone pictures

2007-08-26T08:43:00.000+01:00

Here are some pictures that were taken yesterday. They are not the most flattering pictures but I do like the one taken from the side. I think it really shows my weightloss and I am now getting to a stage where I am almost happy to pose for pictures. Trust me, it has been a long time since I was able to say that.

It has been weird adjusting to a new WI day for me over the past couple of weeks. I love my new meeting so much but it is weird doing things the wrong way round such as going to Aqua aerobics the day after WI and not the day before. Still, a change is as good as a rest and I'm as motivated as ever to get the rest of the weight off, even more so at the moment as I am so close to my 150lb target.

Anyway I'm enjoying the peace and quiet of the bank holiday weekend. I hope you are too.

Vicky xxx

edit: I've added a before picture for those of you that have not seen one of me before. I was at my heaviest in that picture.

My WI Result (22nd August 2007)

2007-08-22T22:09:00.000+01:00

Well as you all know I needed to lose 2lbs this week to have lost ten stone in total. I lost 2.5lbs. This means I have lost 10 stone and half a pound now and I am very happy with this.

Now I am going for my next little mini goal of losing 40% of my bodyweight which is in 3.5lbs time, followed by 150lb certificate which is obviously 9.5lbs time. Fingers crossed I can do these soon.

Tonight was my first time at my new meeting (the meeting itself is not new but you know what I mean). It was fantastic. Everyone is so nice there and I am so glad I moved with Marie. I'm not say everyone at my old meeting was horrible but I am sure you know what I mean.

Hope everyone is well. I think I need to sleep.

Vicky xxx

Sugar and Spice

2007-08-20T13:13:00.000+01:00

I love WeightWatchers and I follow the points plan because a) I don't have the time to or like cooking that much and b) I like being able to eat what I like as long as I count it in my points allowance.

I was on 33 points when I started in October last year. Now I'm on 23 officially although I have always found (on previous attempts too) that I need to eat between 1 and 2 points a day less to maximise my loss. This is not something I'd recommend however as you could reach the point of starvation mode when your points drop low enough.

There are a few observations I have made along my weight loss journey and I hope they maybe of help to you. However I'd like to add they are not aimed at anyone in particular, they are just things that I have noticed or have helped me along the way.

1) I always used to think I could eat what I wanted as long as I stayed within my points allowance. However, I've noticed a trend when I eat more sugary or fattening foods and that is I lose less weight compared to "back to basic" weeks where I stick to the "core foods". This is despite staying within my points allowance. I try to find a healthy balance now where I do treat myself occasionally but I do try to do so at the start of my Weight watching week.

2) I was never a water fan until I gave up smoking really. I now drink much more than the recommended two litres a day. Not only does this flush through all the toxins in your body and aid weight loss but I have also found my skin is now smooth and soft and I am sure the water has helped this.

3) Exercise: It does not matter how little or how much you do, exercise really does help your weight loss. The best benefit for me though is my improved fitness and the new lease of life this has given me.

4) Do not count veg as free, at least not all of it. For example, on all prepacked salad/veg there is nutritional values. The reason for this is I am told they pump it full of "whatever" and sat fat to give it a longer shelf life. A little will of course not hurt but this is definitely something to be aware of.

5) I couldn't do this on my own. I find my meetings a great source of encouragement, even more so since I've been a clerk and so in theory have been attending two meetings a week. I've made lots of friends at my meeting and I'm sure I will at my new meeting too. Likewise, the 5+ forum is great and I find lots of motivation, inspiration, hints and tips there.

I hope some of these will be of use to you.

Vicky xxx

Mini Goals

2007-08-18T20:31:00.000+01:00

I need some new mini goals now that I am only 2lbs away from reaching my 10 stone goal (I said I wanted to be here by 6th September) and only 3.5lbs away from completing my summer seasons target of losing 2 stone (by 13th September).

Getting to 15 stone 3lbs will see be having lost 40% of my bodyweight. It's 6lbs away so I'll try and do this by my WI on 5th September.

After that I shall go for my 150lb certificate. I need to get to 14 stone 11lbs to get this. I'm going to aim for this by 19th September.

My next little mini goal will be to weigh under 200lbs. 14 stone 3lbs will see me weighing 199lbs. That means losing 8lbs after I achieve my 150lb certificate. I would like to do this by 3rd October.

Finally I'll be celebrating my Weightwatcher anniversary on the 19th October and by then I'd like to be in the 13s, which would mean over 11 1/2 stone lost. I'll certainly give this , and all my other mini goals a good try. Keep checking back to see my progress.

Vicky xxx

In October 2002:

2007-08-18T19:57:00.000+01:00

When I joined Weightwatchers for the 999th time (ok I lie, it was the 9th or 10th but you get the picture) I weighed 25 stone 10lbs. This was the most I've ever weighed. I gave up when I got to about 20 stone 4lbs.

At my WI this week I weighed 15 stone 9lbs. This makes me 10 stone 1lb less than I was in 2002. This is unbelievable and I am very happy that I have finally been able to get my weight problem under control and do something about it.

As I mentioned in my previous couple of posts, this time with Weightwatchers I have lost 9 stone 12lbs so another 2lbs will take me to 10 stone lost.

I'm really going to try very hard to lose that 2lb this week to take me to 10 stone lost. It would be a great start to the new meeting.

I am really going to miss some of the people from the Thursday meeting. There are a few who I won't really miss but you get that anywhere don't you? However, I've got to know a lot of the people at my meeting and lots of people chat to me which is nice. However, I am sure I'll get to know the people at St Denys really well. What is really nice is that Nicky, one of the ladies who goes on a Thursday evening is coming to the meetings at St Denys instead and one of the girls from work is considering joining so I will know someone there at least.

Moving meetings from Thursdays to Wednesdays does mean that I'll be able to go to aqua aerobics on a Thursday night now after work.The instructor there is the same as the Monday night class. I've not been to aqua on a Monday since April so I'm sure she will really notice the difference.

I hope everyone is enjoying the weekend.

Vicky xxx

I've lost her:

2007-08-16T21:32:00.000+01:00

In this picture is my mate Helen who plays in the dart team I used to captain up until a couple of years ago. I still see a lot of them because my mum actually runs the dart league and I help her out when I can as well as going to presentations but the last time I saw my old team was almost 3 months ago at the last presentation. Since then I have lost 2 more stone and tonight everyone said they could really see the difference in though 2 stone.

Anyway Helen, one of the ladies in the time weighs 9 stone 12lbs, the amount I have lost so tonight I went and had my picture taken with her. I've posted the picture here for you to see and to also see what 9 stone 12lbs looks like in terms of a person.

Here is to the 10 stone.

Vicky xxx

My WI Result (16th August 2007)

2007-08-16T21:23:00.000+01:00

Well that is another 2.5lbs gone forever. I've now lost 138lbs (9 stone 12lbs) and so the race is really on for ten stone next week.

From next week I shall be attending the new meeting I have talked about earlier in my blog. I'm looking forward to this as one of the girls at the meeting is coming as well and it will be good to stay in touch with her. Tonight at my meeting I took some before pictures and everyone was very shocked at them.

Anyway I hope everyone is having a good week.

Vicky xxx

This does not look like me!!!

2007-08-12T08:03:00.000+01:00

At least I do not think it does. This picture was taken last night at my hairdressers leaving party. Despite not knowing anyone there really we had a good night.

I'm desperate to get these 4 and a half pounds off now so that I can say I have lost ten stone. I was really good yesterday, I even drank diet coke when we were out and today I am going to be really good too. I have prawn stir fry lined up for dinner and I'll probably have a tuna sandwich or something for lunch. I'm going to bank a few points as I went over on Friday. I also went to the gym yesterday where I did double everything and I'm feeling really proud of myself for that. Today will involve another trip to the gym I think.

Vicky xxx

My WI result - 9th August 2007

2007-08-09T21:40:00.000+01:00

This week I lost 1.5lbs. I am very happy with this, especially after my brilliant results of the past few weeks. It means I am on 135.5lbs and just another 4.5lbs will take me to 10 stone lost, something I could only have dreamed about before I started Weightwatchers.

Not much else to talk about really this week. Tomorrow is Jo's funeral and I am not looking to it but at least we all get a chance to say goodbye.

On Saturday I am going out so I'll get some pictures taken and post them up as soon as I can.

Vicky xxx

My hairdresser is emigrating (so I went for it)

2007-08-03T23:00:00.000+01:00

Sally, my hairdresser, friend and one time Weightwatcher buddy is moving down under in less than two weeks. Tonight was the last time she did my hair before packing all her stuff and shipping out to Perth. I decided to go for it tonight and got her to do a "Victoria" to it.

I got some photos taken as soon as she left so I could see what I looked like. One of the things I do notice from these pictures is that my tops are getting very baggy on me. However, the next size down from Evans does not quite fit yet (I have them ready to wear when they do). I was pleasantly surprised to see how "small" I look from the side. I never realised I'd "lost THAT much weight".

Anyway that's about it from me at the moment. Thanks to everyone for reading this. Let me know what you think of the hair.

Vicky xxx

My WI Result (2nd August 2007)

2007-08-02T21:29:00.000+01:00

I am so pleased to announce a 5lb loss this week. I will say that I think the stand in leaders scales were very kind but I'll take 5lb any day of the week.

I have now lost 134lbs in total. That is 9 stone 8lbs in total. I now weigh 15 stone 13lbs so I have also dropped down into the next stone AND I am no longer morbidly obese, I am just obese. It also means I have reached my target of being 15 13 by 9th August and also my mini goal of losing 1 stone between my holiday and the start of the football season and there is still 1 week to go. So far I have lost 16lbs.

I am now going to ten stone lost as my next target. I am hoping to reach this in three weeks, which will be my first WI at my new meeting. What a start that will be eh?

I'm having my hair done tomorrow and I am hoping to have it cut a bit like Victoria Beckham has hers. I'll of course put some pictures up as soon as I have them.

Vicky xxx

Thank you

2007-08-01T05:55:00.000+01:00

Thank you to everyone for all your lovely comments on my blog. It does make writing it all the more worthwhile and I do enjoy hearing from you.

I have set the preferences so that anyone can leave a comment now. Please could anyone reading this leave a comment (a simple hello will be fine if that is all you want to write) after this entry so that I can get a rough idea of how many people are reading this. I have something in the pipeline but it is only worth doing if enough people read this blog.

Thanks again and I hope you continue to enjoy my blog.

Vicky xxx

July is over

2007-07-31T21:06:00.000+01:00

In the month I returned from holiday a lot has happened regarding my weightloss.

I was so pleased to stay the same weight on my holiday. This was what I set out to do but before I started "getting into this weightloss lark" I would have been happy to "only" gain half a stone. To stay the same was no mean feat believe me and I worked hard at the gym before and after I went to stay the same.

Since I have been back from holiday I have lost 11lbs and everyone is commenting that it is really showing now. I know every few pounds will make a difference from now. One of my biggest NSV's so far is buying clothes in size 18s and 20s on Saturday last weekend. Before I joined Weightwatchers I was struggling to fit into size 32 trousers and size 32 tops barely fitted. You can imagine how I am feeling now can't you?

I am enjoying exercise a lot more now. I did start a running programme at the gym but I have decided that I do not enjoy running all that much at the moment so I am working on other things such as hill walking. I can burn 150 calories very quickly if I set the treadmill to a steep hill and walk at 6kms an hour. I also started rowing last month and am currently doing 2000k a time, not a great deal but again something I will build up. My work on the cross trainer is 10 times better than it was and I love this bit the most. I can tell how much my fitness has improved on the cross trainer. As for aqua aerobics, last week Wendy, the instructor asked if we had any special requests and I asked for arms. She worked us really hard but it was fantastic and I really enjoyed it. I hope I'll still be able to get to aerobics on time when I change Weightwatcher classes.

I have not had a cigarette for 7 months now and I think this smoking ban is great. It is wonderful to go to the pub or to talk to friends on the concourse at football and not come out smelling of stale cigarette smoke. It does annoy me at work that everyone gets 5 minutes every two hours for a cigarette break and yet if I said I was going for a walk around the car park I would get frowned at. Of course the bosses say I would not but we all know that is not true. I worked it out that over the course of a year a smoker gets 58 hours more off of work than I get. I'm being vicitimised for not smoking but at the end of the day I'll be the healthy one.

In August I will do the following:

1. Get to 10 stone lost (11lbs to go)
2. Pluck up the courage to go to a pilates class
3. Attend one of my closest friends funeral

My friend Jo passed away last night from cervical cancer. It is very sad as she was not even 31 yet and has three children. She was in my crowd at school and we stayed in touch afterwards, having some fantastic times. I shall miss her so much.

I hope everyone reading is well and happy Weightwatching.

Vicky xxx