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Lauren, there is a kindle book on Amazon called Satisfying Eats by Melissa Monroe McGehee and I love it. It's low carb, sugar free. Today I made raisin cinnamon bread from it, it's great! I also have The Low Carb Gourmet from Amazon, it's also good. Had a lovely time catching up with my...

Oh pineapple, that's interesting Susie. Another good day here, much cooler. Ended up repainting the kitchen. Menu B - 1 sausage, fried parma, mushrooms Throughout evening - nuts, berries and cream, Ham and egg salad. Not much else to report today.

OMG! How amazing is that? ?? Well done, all your hard work is paying off. Hope you got something for the Park issue x

Hey Lauren, Another good day, thanks crunchie it's Friday tho - wowee it's been warm at work. Dh came to meet me for lunch today, that was really nice. We sat by the river and it felt great. The plasterer finished today, but two weeks to wait before painting. Tomorrow I am off to meet a...

Hi G, my chicken curry was an onion puréed in the blender (leave out if you want lower carb), fried for ten mins in butter and or coconut oil. Then fry the chicken off in with onion, add some curry powder, spices, or Pataks Balti paste (as I did), add chilli and some water and single cream, plus...

Ms Goldi, you do know how to write an inspiring post! Do you think it's he extra greens that are helping you along? I've bought frozen spinach today in the hope for the same results. Btw how do you reply to a post on ipad? My only option is to quote then delete the quote and just type my answer....

Busy, what on earth did they snub you for? Are they too posh for tradition? Hmmm, good on you for doing what you wanted and wearing what you feel comfortable in x

That's nice Susie, duck egg Blue is pretty. My menu today has been: B - 2 cream cheese pancakes, 1 tbsp cream L - cold cheese omelette (couldn't find the microwave! ) D - small chicken curry, sugar free jelly with 1 tbsp cream. I have felt full all day so must be getting the Atkins edge...

Well done Lauren, you're doing so well. Good luck with CD. I've got loads of exante porridge if you want it? I don't like it and can't be bothered with vlcd anymore!

Oh, also I heard from Diem. She's fine, not using the forum anymore but we're staying in touch by Email.

I would love that! !

Awwww, Thanks everyone! I love doing the interior decorating for this place. I dreamed about it for months! The spare room is next. Plastering this week, then decorating in two weeks. It's all sloped in there from the eaves and it adds character. The headboard wall will be a kind of...

Thanks coffee, yes I'm pleased with the colour too x

Thanks busy x

Newly decorated dining room

So, as I mentioned above, the work situation got sooo much better. The people became friendlier, and I realised I was lucky to be working fairly close to home, with free parking and work that's interesting. Yesterday was a nice day; we went to Leeds Castle for the open air classical concert...

Thanks busy. It did get better thank goodness!

Hi Lauren, how have you been ( or indeed have you actually been?!!). I've had a few times on vlcd where I didnt go for days, I had to resort to glycerin suppositories from tesco. Not nice, but better than not going for so long. I've had a look on YouTube, I remember you!! I'm not too sure which...

Thanks lovely. Have tried to reply on your diary but it won't let me. I've caught up with your last few days. Hilarious antics with the gel bra!!

Hi lovely, just caught up your diary - hilarious antics with the bra! Well done on your loss, you've motivated me to stop quaffing cherries (thanks ML for reminding me).

Hi lovely, just caught up with your diary. Haaaaa, you are funny with your gel bra incidents! Well done on your loss though, very motivating.

Thanks everyone, you're all lovely. The new job has meant I've been out of play for long hours everyday and unable to check diaries. The jury is still out on the job, found the people really Unfriendly on day 1, but each day has got better. Have an interview tomorrow for something else, but...

Hi all, hope you've all been well. Had an emotional few days; a friend died (expected, but awful nonetheless) and my darling other mummy left for Luton. Saying goodbye was just awful and I got really upset. Anyway, I've taken it easy today; cooked up some meals for the week, bathed and walked...

Thanks Mrs, sorry you've been suffering with the headaches. Yes, I'm pleased with the new job. It's two months temporary work then likely to become permanent. Can't wait for a down day food wise tomorrow, eaten waaaaay too much today!

I've got a new job, start Monday - Hurrah!

I've been having a similar dilemma, Lauren. I want the last two stone gone, but with what I'm doing currently I'm just maintaining. I've done vlcd on and off for years and frankly can't face going back on one (even though I've got 30 porridge sachets sitting in a cupboard). For now I've...

Hi all, have had a good couple of headache free days which enabled me to crack on at home. Yesterday the plasterers finished, God that's a messy old business! I've been painting and sorting. Today has been a bit quieter, doing odd jobs out and about; been dropping things off, picking...

Oh you poor thing, sounds really awful. Is it something to do with low sodium levels. Do you have much salt? Try drinking a Bouillon before bed. I think if you're low in sodium it can affect adrenalin which could give you sweats?

Yaaaaaaaay! !

A woman after my own heart ~ I'm really into make up. Last year I worked for clarins for a while, I loved them, just really disliked the store I worked in. I did a make up course too, along with Indian Head massage. It doesn't look like you eat that much, from reading your food diaries. Do...

Hmmmm, sounds like you're starting to think the same way as me, time to get a bit more serious! Your goal sounds perfectly achievable (says she who has yo yo'd with the same stone for soooo long!!). What is the career opportunity?

Hi Lauren, yes I'll still visit of course and there's so much communication these days, it just feels like end of an era. She was the last person left for me in my home town. Anyway, it's all ok today, I feel good. Luckily no migraine, not too sure what's causing them, but I've generally feeling...

Oh Hun, I am sorry. I'm so glad it hasn't put you off buying, the right one is defo out there (feels like de ja vu, I've said that so many times to you). Yes, get the wine out, you deserve it x

Morning all, another flippin migraine today. That's 3 mornings in a row and I can't even blame totm. It's a beautiful day here, had a nice walk with the dog and done a few jobs. We're going to my surrogate mum for lunch. She lives in the next town, but next week is moving to Luton (about 3...

Ah Lauren, nothing to judge you for there. Some might say it's better to have kids young, I think it's when we were designed to do that - much more energy etc. Can't wait to see the pic though. How old is your son now? Hope you're feeling a bit better today.

Hi Jaxkar, I usually try to stick to meat/fish with salad when eating out. I don't drink alcohol, or have any sugar at all so no desserts unless I can make my own. I know that sounds very limited, but it works for me. Hope that helps?

Morning Susie, How's it going today?

Hurrah! That's great Lauren. Well done you. It's the bp coffees, they are fab. What are you up to today?

Morning Lauren, Haven't made many plans for today, but I'm thinking the day might involve a tip run, food shopping and finding a suit that fits ( I'm bound to have an interview soon, right?). For a little while now my jeans have been feeling tight, and I'm generally feeling that I'm over...

Hi Livvy, Bulletproof coffee is a fab thing I learned about through Goldilukes. See this link http://www.bulletproofexec.com/how-to-make-your-coffee-bulletproof-and-your-morning-too/ It sounds foul, but tastes divine. It gets lots of good fat into your system, and means that your body will...

Today I've only needed one bulletproof coffee and half a bag of pork scratchings so far. We took mum to an ice cream parlour where she and dh had ice cream sundaes, I didn't want one cos falling off the wagon really makes me feel rubbish. I had a coffee and a couple of spoons of cream off...

Hey Lauren, the puppies sound such fun and really rewarding. One day, one day. ...I'm working on it! I couldn't see the dish on your pic. Every time I tried to get it to rotate correctly, it turned again. Do you think you would ever be able to weigh weekly, or do you really need to see a...

Thanks Giggles, hubby is fine. He will just have the cancer patch dug out a bit deeper. They do that with skin cancer to stop it recurring in later years. It won't kill him, or spread anywhere else. :o

Morning girls, I would have room for chickens, but my oh is absolutely not keen so it's not even worth asking! Overnight I did some fruit leather in the oven really low. Ooh it's lovely! Just a pound of strawberries whizzed up with black pepper, poured onto baking paper on a baking tray and...

Ha, that's hilarious! I think a cow would be very useful on Atkins. I don't know how long the growing my own will last, but today I planted tomatoes, courgettes, coriander, basil, baby leaves, rocket and sweet peppers!

Thanks Lauren:) Another productive day in the bag. Had one bp coffee for breakfast and not needed anything til now. Dinner is bolognese with courgetti spaghetti and lots of grated Cheddar. Work wise I've cleared the greenhouse of all the jungle of weeds, and put the staging back together. I'm...

Morning Lauren (I've started reading your diary from the beginning so now I know your name! ), oh the poor pup. I love dogs and have a cocker spaniel girl who's my surrogate child! I so wish we hadn't had her spayed and had let her have pups. One day our dream is to have a small holding with...

Oh phew, gosh you could do without all this emotional upheaval. I do hope the rest is plain sailing x

FFS. I just cannot believe it. You poor, poor thing. This is beyond a flippin joke Susie. I'm here if you need to chat. In the meantime, big hugs from me xx

Hi busy, it was a gggggreat day thanks. In the evening we popped over to Canterbury quickly (to buy blinds! ), then came home and had cheese and Apple for tea and watched tv. I fell asleep on the sofa by 10.30. Very relaxed. The sun is shining here, I've watered the plants and put some washing...

Thanks Giggles, have rallied a bit now. It's such a beautiful evening here, sunny and bright.

Ooh that's good Susie, fifty quid a month more to spend on cat treats!

Eeek, so much for the low carb carrot cake - the two tiny slices I've had have floored me! I have zero energy, am tired and have a headache. I am very sensitive to carb, and this has served as a good reminder of how I used to feel BA (before Atkins).

Hi all, it's my birthday today My friends from London came to visit for lunch. We had low carb pizza, then the low carb carrot cake and low carb Strawberry cheesecake. I am stuffed! Not sure what else is planned today, but maybe a film as I got Les Mis dvd and a sound bar for the tv as gifts.

Awwww,Thanks everyone for your kind words. I've felt much better today. Lots more diy, lots of baking ready for my birthday tomorrow (low carb baked cheesecake and low carb carrotcake), met a friend for coffee at a pub on the beach and just had lovely tea. I had one bp coffee for breakfast...

Thanks G. So, all going well in the smiley house. Spent yesterday painting doors, dh made a lovely cupboard door for the under stairs bit where the meters are. Numerous trips to DIY stores. Made a lovely chicken korma with Cauli rice for tea. Had only needed 2 bulletproof coffees all day...

I've never done my bp coffee with salted butter, I read the article you posted a few days ago and remember the fella saying not to use it as it doesn't taste good. It's gorgeous and creamy with the unsalted. I've only had one this morning as I'm having my cousin over for roast pork at lunch...

Morning Goldi, my name is Caroline. What does today hold for you? I'm just enjoying a bp coffee, always makes me think of you!

Ooh, high on life, what a lovely thing to read (and be feeling! ). When we got married on a beach in the wilds of NZ, the staff of the hotel built a bonfire in the evening, the six of us in our wedding party toasted marshmallows on it and took in the ambience. Great memories. :)

Well therein lies the problem - I don't weigh, it'll really bother me if I've put on. I used to weigh every day, but have now gone to the other extreme! I'll let you know when my jeans are loose tho. ...

Yes, maybe. Can see how the novelty would wear off for you too.

That's great to hear. Gosh, getting asked for ID at 31 - I wish!

What a great day! I love it when I learn something new and useful. Well, today I learned that Goldi's bulletproof coffee recipe is a fab way to start the day. The fat content contained within held me for the whole day. I had low carb pizza for tea, but really I could have gone without! I...

That's the spirit Goldi. I'm loving the bulletproof coffee. Still not hungry - amazing!

Hi Goldi, thanks for the link. I'm at here drinking my first bulletproof coffee, it's gorgeous. So pleased I know about this one! Have a great day.

Hi ladies, the sun is coming out, a friend is coming for lunch, things are looking up. Goldi - the facial hair was causing me embarrassment, although I didn't realise it contains steroids I think the risk would be worth it. I've got lots more confidence now.

Thanks Susie. Rather enjoying the freedom at the moment, got lots done yesterday - a bit in the garden and getting the lounge finished. I'm really pleased with it. The weather is hot, rainy, thundery and humid. I must get up from in front of the tv and start the job hunting!

I am officially redundant. I feel relieved, so much uncertainty for so long. At least I know where I am now. Looking forward to having some time between job hunting to sort the jungle of a garden out, and do the spare room up. Maybe my next job could last longer than six months?

Thanks both, unfortunately it's still not looking good for the job. I'm dreading tomorrow, the boss is coming to see me. Just me.

Struggling at the mo with the company I work for teetering on the edge of going under, so trying desperately to find another job AGAIN! Also suffering with PMT, and had a small glass of red wine last night. Because I'm so carb sensitive today I have a banging headache, am ravenous and oh so...

Here we are -

I agree, already very happy here - it's so light :) Ask away on decorating; I researched all the colours for so long! The entrance lobby is sail white by Crown, just very slightly grey. Will try to attach another pic. ....

So pleased to hear that your purchase is rattling along so fast, Susie. You'll soon be living and breathing decorating plans like me! Here are some pics of the living room -

Oh no, the weekend is nearly over again! Why's it going so damn fast when I've got so much to do? Ah, I know; it's because I've just wasted 3 hours trying to put together 2 tiny side tables! I've finally admitted defeat, they'll have to wait til the husband wakes up after nights. I've...

Re: Susie, Lisa and Orbit's daily dribble Yep, that's the one Susie. It looks great, well done for finding it!

What a fab post to read Goldi, well done! Ooh, I forgot to quote - I had been reading the post where you'd been in Warehouse changing room, trying on size 12 clothes, what a fantastic feeling.

Re: Susie, Lisa and Orbit's daily dribble Well done Susie, that's good going. Sorry the sex machine's still around!

It's called Vaniqa. You use it morning and night and after a while it incredibly reduces the hair growth. Brilliant stuff and it's given me my confidence back. I didn't have laser treatment, so I'm glad I found it.

I had irregular, and for a long time no periods, could eat constantly all day, never felt full. Could not lose weight for love nor money, and had the hirsutism. All fairly settled now, got excellent cream for the facial hair which has now pretty much gone.

I agree. As you know, I've stopped myself from weighing daily as it was seriously effecting/controlling my mood each day. Have a good day. :)

Hi Susie, yes we're in. Been here 10 days and love the house and all we have achieved in that short amount of time. It's so light and bright here! How are you doing?

I'm right with you on the PCOS. I've had it since I was 17 (20 years), but this is the only woe I've tried that's enabled me to lose when I really try hard. I'm happy staying the same for now, but I don't think it'll be long before I'm trying to lose some more.

Yep, that used to be me, but it was governing my whole day - scales down, good day, scales up, bad day. I had to stop, so now I go by how my clothes feel - not very scientific, but I feel more settled.

Yes, I'm like you - once I've made all the changes I want I start thinking of new projects! Weight wise I'm just maintaining for now I think, although I haven't weighed this year. My clothes fit the same, so that's a good sign. I've got at least a stone or so that I would like to lose.

Great, another Atkins buddy! I love this way of eating. Yes , a good day - painted the stairs and landing (2 more coats to go!), went food shopping, took the dog for a hair cut, went for a drink with hubby and a friend. The electrician has been and hubby is putting up kitchen blinds. Tomorrow...

Hi Goldi, thanks for popping by. Yes, the move has been tiring, but I've wanted it for so long and been planning all the work I'm now doing for months. It's starting to take shape, and will be lovely when it's done. When I'm back to work next week I'll be resting in comparison to this week...

Wowee, who knew it was possible to ache so much??!! I surely must be burning millions of calories every day what with painting, lugging boxes upstairs, dog walking, cleaning etc? Still been eating low carb during the move, although it's like camping getting used to a new oven and burning lots of...

Thanks DK. Yes, it's gone well. We're in, and actually now have space to move around! Today we need to clean the rental place we've just left, do yet another tip run and start stripping wallpaper in the hall. Busy, busy but happy, happy.

Thanks lady, it's all going well. Fingers crossed for tomorrow, hope the keys are ours asap.

Ooh great, so glad you enjoyed your hols. Chop, chop with those pics!

Ok, I'll check the date on them. Yup, great to have the bank hol, but actually not back to work til the 3rd June, which is nice. Praying for good weather Fri, at the moment it's forecast heavy rain....

Stick with it, let me know how you get on. We will have such bright white teeth we'll be able to see each other in the dark!! 2 sleeps til I move!

Seems to be many health benefits to it. I've been doing it with organic sunflower oil these past few days, as the coconut oil is too precious to spit out! Some articles say that the sunflower oil is able to retain more toxins than the coconut oil, but I suspect they're all much of a muchness.

It's just fab, ml. I'm up to 3 tbsp a day approx and feeling really, really good. I'm also oil pulling daily, interestingly my sinuses have stopped playing me up since....

Hi petal, so glad you're still about. Is your health any better now?

Thanks moonwatcher, it all feels ok so far. This time next week! This week has been good for me. 2 people separately have said I look like I've lost weight. My Jeans are falling off me, so they're probably right (even though my first reaction was to say the material had somehow just...

We have exchanged! Hurrah! We are moving on 24th May. All excitement amid a wall of boxes.... I read a very interesting book on my kindle last night called Coconut Cures. Coconut oil, milk etc can do some amazing things and I have subscribed to a monthly delivery of 800g tubs for £13 on Amazon...

Aaaaagh, hideous migraine since yesterday evening, vomiting, disturbed vision - the works. Not had such a debilitating attack for a long time. The trip to whitstable is off, it's all I can do to sit on the sofa.

Busy, busy in the smiley house. The contract and all associated paperwork is bundled together and ready to go off in the post on Tuesday. Went out yesterday and got some summer skinny jeans in red, bright blue and aqua along with a couple of plain coloured v neck t shirts. Today I'm off to...

Ffs, I'm almost speechless. There's something exciting though, about not knowing what the future holds (look, I'm trying to be positive!) X

No, the contract is here but they need a letter from MIL to say she is gifting the deposit. She's just about to go on holiday, so dh is driving to Leicester and back tomorrow to get the letter signed!

No problem Miss B, I would be interested to hear what you think of it.

Basic Almond Crust 180g ground almonds 2 tbsp Splenda 1/4 tsp salt 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted 1 large egg white Preheat oven to 180, line a spring form baking dish or pie dish with baking paper. In a bowl mix the almonds, sweetener and salt. Add butter and mix well. In a small bowl...

Oh Susie, how awful and unsettling to be where you are with all that going on. Am so pleased you have another m in p arranged. Our searches came back today, so hopefully not too long for us. Have a good week.

So another week over. Things I have learned this week: 1) We may be exchanging on 1st May, with a view to moving in around mid May. Watch this space...... 2) It IS possible for me to get the Atkins Edge. I have hardly wanted to eat anything for the whole week and it is has felt soooooooo...

Yes, well done for being strong.

WTF? My goodness that really is dreadful. I'm so sorry for you, Susie. You'll get there in the end, but lady luck really needs to come your way, eh x

Lovely, I've been to Garda and thoroughly enjoyed it. I was there when 9/11 happened, we had to stay an extra 4 days as couldn't get home for some reason due to flights. It was a lovely place to get stuck!

Hi Susie, any updates on the flat yet? Just waiting on searches at our end, due back by the 1st of may so maybe we'll get a move date then?

Hi stubbsey, fantastic on the size 12 Next top, I find Next stuff to be quite small! Did you suffer any nasty side effects after your binge? I find I can't get away with any sugar at all, get horrid headaches and nausea. For cauli cheese I do cream cheese, single cream, cheddar and a bit of...

Nice menu Sammy. Good luck with the pre holiday clean & green. Where are you thinking of for your hols?

Full steaming of veg ahead!!

Atkins reading from the beeb today BBC News - Atkins and the never-ending battle over carbs

Oh really well done Sammy. It's interesting that you've had a good loss since you upped the carbs.

Well done for getting back on the wagon, my dear x

: Chocolate pecan cookies 96g ground almonds 85g finely chopped pecans 1/2 tsp baking soda 4 tbsp Splenda 1 egg 1/2 tsp pure vanilla essence 113g butter at room temperature 56g frozen dark chocolate chunks Chopped pecans (optional) Preheat oven 180 degrees C In medium bowl, mix dry ingredients...

Hmmmm, Exante is just not happening this week. The baking bug has hit again in time for DH's birthday this coming weds. Have made LC cookies and brownies! In other news I have decided to start a business with my 2 colleagues, offering virtual admin support. We all work well together, but the...

Hi giggles, no I'm on Exante breakfast and lunch, then a not very small dinner! The labyrinthitis was the perfect excuse to fall off the wagon!

Morning, thanks for that, much better result.

Yes, I agree, that does sound sensible. Which site did you use to calculate and get the 1800 cals per day? The ones I'm finding are showing 1300-1500??

Yes just been back to Dr, it's labyrinthitis :0( I'm also missing diem, I'm wondering if her counselling is taking her 'diet brain' and putting it to other tasks for now. Will post on her diary incase she checks it.

All going well, day 9 Exante. Fighting an inner ear infection after using Hopi ear candles, but not suffering too much. Mortgage now sorted in full (not just in principal), survey done and fine, all proceeding nicely just waiting for searches now. I'm really enjoying the light evenings now.

Hurrah! I reckon this is the one then x

Thanks Sammy. Day 4 of Exante completed. Firmly in ketosis, breath foul! Just been to pilates and feeling great.

Oh Sammy, you poor thing. Be kind to yourself, it takes a while to get over. X

You will be very welcome to visit, but I'm a long way from Hastings, prob about 1.5 hours. The roads are rubbish on that coastal route, I think it's quicker driving to M25 and down! We are waaaay closer where you are now. Well done on the weight loss, what an amazing amount to lose in a month...

We're reckoning mid may. Could be sooner, but hoping for a little extra time to get sorted!

Hi ML, thanks for the sciency info re calories, rather interesting. Also pleased to hear the addition of alpro made the mim lighter, I do find them rather dense.

Susie, you made the right choice in not going to the coast - very heavy snow here!

Wow, the end of another week already. House stuff proceeding well. Was working in London today, a very uncomfortable day spent in Pall Mall in tight fitting trousers and underwear! Am starting Exante tomorrow, feel mentally ready and the clothes being tight made up my mind to start early. Feel...

Really? Snow on the south coast too? I thought we were going to escape this time!

wow, that's a bargain! Nice kitchen, lovely little garden too. I like it.

Oh I am sorry. What a gut wrenching disappointment. I agree though that things happen for a reason, you are destined for better things.

Blimey, things really do get held up, eh? Keeping my fingers crossed for you x

Yes, the kitchen/diner is lovely. It needs a window adding as it's a bit dark without, but really that's about all the structural stuff. How's your purchase going, Susie?

Yes, I'm really happy with it. The light is important as it's dark where we are now. No parking, it's on street, but we can put a car port in when we get some money together.

Here we are ladies, it needs work but I've got plenty of vision! http://m.rightmove.co.uk/quickPage.html;jsessionid=94D26EE3BC76495B1AA760162A951FFD?page=8&cc=html5%2Fhomepage.html%3Fpid%3D37424585%26goto%3DRESALE_PROPERTY_DETAILS#details

Hello all, it's been a busy week - found a house we like and had an offer accepted on it! We could be home owners very soon, no chain on either side so fingers crossed. It's a 2 bedroom semi in the village we're in now, built in the 30's. It needs alot of cosmetic work doing, but we're looking...

The end of a good week. Next week I'm working full time, and hope it will become permanent. Really enjoying my work still, and come home feeling like I've achieved. I really look forward to weekends now too. My cold is still hanging about and I've struggled with migraines, but hope that's just...

That sounds really interesting ml. I will watch with interest.

Really glad you're enjoying it Susie. Well done x

Eek, sounds like the reason I stopped drinking all those years ago!!

Sounds lovely, Susie

Dear diary, Life is still good, work is going very well indeed. I really enjoy the variety, and my colleagues, who are very similar in outlook to me. House buying is on hold until I have 3 wage slips, and that feels right. No need to rush anything. Diet wise, well I do feel chubby at the...

Hope SW goes well, Susie. My mum had lost about half a stone on it in the past few weeks so it def works for some. The Turkey trip sounds great, I had a very enjoyable time there about 8 years ago.

Thanks Susie, how lovely. Enjoy the gorgeous, sunny day xx

All going well here. Work is great, viewed a few houses before half the deposit fell through. So a year or so saving now before we're ready (unless we have a little lottery win!). The house I love (not the one I posted recently) will be lost, crrrrrry!! Sticking nicely to low carb, but not...

Yes, I love it! People are great too. I cracked on with stuff from the minute I got there, and am doing really well.

Got to my first day with no problems, despite a couple of inches of snow. I had an excellent time, got straight into booking conference and flights via the Barbados office, and feel like I did fairly well for my first day.

Thanks Sammy, I'll give the belly pork another try sometime.

Jealous of the Ronnie Scott's stuff for sure!

Aaaaaaaggghh, there's so much snow here and it's falling heavily still. Will I make it into the countryside for my first day tomorrow?!

You're welcome B!

Yes, I know what you mean. I'll figure it out sometime. For now, there is far too much going on to consider any more change. Had a great day spring cleaning the house. Heavy snow falling now, and settling!

Yaaaaaaaaay, well done!

Lean and green all week, husband lost 4lbs and I sts - grrrrr. Did have totm, but finished yesterday so should be back to normal now surely? Bugger, this means that only Exante works for weight loss with me and Atkins for maintenance. I started Atkins at 11.08 I think in about August, I don't...

Ah yes, I have black forest. In my opinion, strawberry doesn't work as well as black forest or summer fruit as they're not tart enough.

Where did you find those then? Do they have them in Tesco?

http://m.rightmove.co.uk/quickPage.html;jsessionid=4C57EC2BB7C9E7220D632743372B04CF?page=8&cc=html5%2Fhomepage.html%3Fpid%3D22760649%26goto%3DRESALE_PROPERTY_DETAILS#details

Were they frozen blackberries?

Brilliant!!

Ooh, yum Susie. Wish you were closer to share..... Found a lovely bungalow, just need a decision from MIL now!

Thanks my dear.

A very productive day indeed: we have been to a mortgage broker and now have a mortgage in principal. We don't have a deposit yet, but are awaiting a decision from MIL as to whether she'll lend it to us. We are still 3 months away from being able to get a mortgage as they'll need 3 months wage...

Food today (since 6pm yesterday): Home made chicken madras curry with cauli rice.

I reckon it could be down to the pork belly. I have tried cooking the stuff, but just can't get it anything like crispy. It's all rubbery when I do it, how do you do yours? How's the fast day going? Mine's nearly over - hurrah!

Ok, no work clothes found. I looked hideous in all the trousers. They are either huge like clown trousers, or make my stomach look awful, or if side fasteners, well just hideous! However, lovely glasses found and ordered. Hair cut, dog walked. Tomorrow viewing a house in a local village. Have...

Yes it does sound nice.

Oh flipping 'eck. One day you'll find your Shangri la.

Happy Friday! Yes, smiley is smiley again. It's my last working day off before starting my new job on Monday. I'm going off to the local outlet centre to look for some work clothes, then having my hair cut. Once DH is up this afternoon we're off to look at new glasses for me. All things I've...

Heeeeeeee! Love it.... Dear Nick, thank you so much for approaching me at work to offer me a managerial role in your business, watching me leave my original job in order to have an enforced 6 month break because you had poached me and during that time withdraw your offer of what you then termed...

Hope you feel much better soon. Wrap up warm xx

Lovely food today: B 3 egg omelette made with gorgeous eggs from husband's colleague's chickens, with 15g cheddar. L Courgette & chicken soup D king prawns marinated in chilli, lime, garlic & coriander, fried in coconut oil, with rocket, spinach & watercress, hard boiled egg & mayo.

Great, you're No.2 in the queue!

Thanks ML, yes I think I'll take a different one of my mini's friends each time. Form an orderly queue! Thoughts of real mortgage possibilities are filling my head now. Can't wait to tell Mr Me when he wakes from his sleep after nights.

Yaaaaaaaaay!

Thanks, yes I'm very relieved. I don't think I'll be in the Caribbean too often, but even so the job is fascinating and even the odd working jaunt over there will be lovely.

Also, have a look at femforte tablets online. They have saved my marriage many times!

Well done losing it!

I got the caribbean job, start monday!

Oh, and I've done a fast day today despite having had a 24 hour migraine. It's gone now, and all in the world is well.

Hi, just got back. He's had it scraped for analysis, he has to wait to hear whether it will require a minor operation in 2-3 months time. So, yes all ok. They reiterated that it is extremely low grade and does not spread. Relieved.

No, sorry no pic, but it was incredibly tasty. Sounds odd, tastes grrrrreat!!

Totals today, 10g carb, 1507 cals. This afternoon I was invited to interview for a job with the NHS on Fri. It's given me a bit more hope, but again only part time. However, I am qualified for it and hope to be able to change it to full time (apparently this is a possibility). Will ask on Fri.

No, ok but the carb fest was in the name of science, so how else will you know?

Would be interesting to see what happened on the scales tomorrow?

Well done ML for putting the basket down, I can hear the voices in your head now "WALK AWAY FROM THE CARBS!" So sorry the sleep is still evading you, hope your luck changes soon, then I'll call you Moonluck...

Yes, it feels a bit better. Hopefully will feel a whole lot better after DH's hospital thing tomorrow. There's a whole lot of worry incase it's not simple skin cancer (nothing to indicate that, just me over worrying). Also, of course it'll be completely A-OK if I get the job!

Made a lovely few spoonfuls of something sweet (pmt issue) - half avocado whizzed up with 5g cocoa powder, 1 tsp butter, a drop of vanilla & liquid Hermy. God knows if legal, but made me feel better. Was a gorgeous chocolate mousse.

Eeeeeek! Ok, I suppose I was really just poking my nose into why you went for carbs, but actually that's none of my beeswax so I'm taking my nose back out...

Oh dear, it's finally come and bitten me on the bum. Got upset to tears about having no work, feel embarrassed by it and finding it hard to see a way through. It will pass i know, but the feelings of uselessness I have been trying to ward off, combined with being pre menstrual are making me feel...

Omg, why? Are you going to juddd? Don't go!

Great, thanks. Cauli curry sounds nice.

Susie, could you give me your Courgette soup recipe pls?

Exhilarated was just the word. Lunch was 2 lettuce cups (60g total), filled with a slice of smoked Bavarian ham in each, and egg mayo made with 1.5 eggs, 20g mayo & 15g butter. After, 50g cream cheese with 1 capful Da Vinci egg nog. I am weighing everything today, instead of hazarding a guess...

Yes, I will keep posting B. I'll need the ongoing support to stay on the straight & narrow, plus I love the feeling that I've got a group of friends around me.

I'll be interested to see how that goes, Sammy. I really hope you manage to find your Atkins mojo soon!

I'm fasting tomorrow too. We can grumble together!

Had a gorgeous walk along the cliff top with DH & the dog. It's a lovely crisp, sunny day - the sort that gives you a real glow in your cheeks. Clocked up a few thousand steps too.

Yaaaaaaaaay! Well done Susie, it'll be great to have another on the low carb/ IF combo.

Thanks Susie, sometimes I end up feeling silly on here because of course i pour everything out, lunging from one new 'great idea' for weight loss to another, only ever going back to the original plan anyway! So, big hugs are welcome here!

ML, that's lovely thank you, I like straight talkers and appreciate your post, all based on experience I know. Today, since reading your post, I have actually portioned out cheese & cream and this will help to control things, whilst 'allowing' myself to eat them. I had a 3 egg omelette with 15g...

Thanks B, I think I'm in the zone now. Monday total calories 1094 Total carb 9g

Thanks Susie. Just pan frying a pork chop to have for dinner, then sf jelly.

Oh what a shame you've found it hard. Nearly dinner time, eh?

Hi Susie, how's the fast day gone? x

Hi de hi, yes all true of course. I have just started part deux, and will continue reading now....

------------------------------------------------- There, I've drawn a line under the witterings and ramblings of the indecisive fool I have been for the last few days. I cannot sustain a fat fast, and must be sensible about this. It's an up & down week emotionally waiting to hear re jobs...

Well, that's a good argument of reason & logic. Will get my head in order now, lean & green it is. Thanks, it's good to have the voice of reason out there and on my side.

Thanks for posting about your fat fast losingit, I am starting a 5 day fat fast today. Scales just haven't budged for a month. Fingers crossed. Well done on the loss so far.

Good luck Susie, I find once you're into the day it feels quite easy. Especially as we can still plan meals on a fast day.

Sticking to 1000 cals daily, 90% from fat. I've chopped and changed my mind daily this week about what to do next. My plan (today anyway!) is 5 day fat fast, then to what you've, been doing (no nuts, cheese, cream etc), then onwards. I just need to see some movement on the scales. Will be having...

I'm going all out on the fasting. Had my 500 cals yesterday, in fact between 6.30pm sat til this morning. From today I'm fat fasting, hoping to keep that going for 5 days. I've been 11.11 on the scales for a month, still there today. I'm gonna get that down this week.

Thank you

Yes, there's one temp to perm that I've got an interview for next week. But, until it's permanent (if) then I won't be considered for a mortgage. Also, due to hear re the Caribbean one next week.

Spurred on by the success of diem, I am changing my strategy. Today is a fast day (nothing consumed since 6pm last night). Then I'll be going without cream, cheese, nuts this week and sticking to very clean & green. Will weigh tomorrow once the fast is done. Then fast tues & thurs. Right, I...

T'was nice to go out with my friend to the psychic night. In all the times I've been, they've never come to me but I live in hope! It's interesting to hear what's said to the others though. Husband came home from his night out and threw up nearly all night. Apparently he's not drinking again...

Yup, I agree my lovely, Monsieur le B'tard had his chance, eh! Like you, I would always rather just be told the truth though.

Oh I am a confused soul, I thought Steve was your other half, doh! So sorry about Steve's dog, I can't imagine how I'll feel when it's my lovely dogs turn. I hope somehow he'll get through it. Re the French man, in similar situations in my past, unfortunately my gut instinct has always been...

That sounds interesting. Have just had dinner, cauli rice, a small amount of pepper, chilli, mushroom and broccoli as stir fry veg, and salmon. Didn't eat it all as I was full, am pleased with myself as it was so scrummy I would previously have carried on ploughing through it. Off to a psychic...

Let's hope it gets knotted (!) and everything else runs smoothly.

That's great, thanks my dear.

Very well done ml. May I pick your brain on your menu's? It looks on paper like you don't eat much, but in reality do you have reasonably ample portions? I'm trying to gauge how much roughly to have for good weight loss, like you.

Am gradually steering away from Exante. I'm reading about tactics to keep my blood sugar low with real food, just reinforcing the low carb life we're all living. I just need to stop being pessimistic and get on with it ! I'm going to crack this last stone, or so... B brie & nuts L home made...

Having a reading day today, whilst listening to the rain fall outside. I'm loving the reading....

Thursday, a bit grey & mishog today outside. The sunshine really was a mood improver yesterday. No big deal today, I'll be walking the dog and then pootling off about an hour along the coast (nearly into Sussex) to meet my best friend at her sisters place for a girly day. They're having a French...

What a great day! My head is in a good place, I have achieved loads, Exante has gone well, 4 litres of water downed and I'm now freezing cold, leading me to think ketosis could be on its way - hurrah!

It was rather negative, ml. They were showing the difference between the ww brand foods and their cost in comparison to normal brands. Also, how they have paid for their own research into the success of the diet, which is the blurb used to promote its success etc.

I think my DH is a bit like that now with the diet stuff, although he is pretty good about it really. The room colours sound lovely. We did ours in shades of grey ( sounds a bit dodgy after that rubbish book!), it looks a bit New Englandy, and I'm pleased with it.

Ooo, that sounds nice.

Sammy, that's quite exciting. I love it when I've redecorated and got new bedding & bits to go in it. We did ours last year, what colours are you going for? The weight watchers documentary was really interesting.

Just tried my new shaker, it's fab. Completely lump free and didn't leak. Highly recommended http://www.argos.co.uk/m/static/Product/partNumber/9091869.htm Off to watch a recording of dispatches about weight watchers.

It's turned into a great day. Quilt bought, along with a shake shaker. This one has a screw in compartment at the bottom to store the powder, and fits an Exante sachet, folded up, in it nicely. A bargain at £3.99, and I'll need it when I'm out as I don't want to keep buying ultraslim bars. Have...

I second that, really don't know how you do it. Fingers crossed for tonight.

Phew, that's grrrrreat then. Have a day eating as you want to.

So, here's Wednesday. I'm off to buy a new quilt, we've been sleeping badly for a few nights now and one of the issues is a quilt that is far too hot. We have the windows open overnight, but even so I was awake for hours last night. Back to Exante today, feeling good, not hungry yet but I'm...

How was your night, Susie?

I have a friend like this, and to get round it I either tell her I'll take my own food, so as not to give her the option, or cater for both of us or I only ever arrange to see her for coffee. Over the years I've got really fed up with people trying to sabotage my efforts because our diet...

Chocolate shake in a bowl mixed til sloppy with water and a drop of liquid Hermy. Nuke for about a minute until warm, hey presto!

Everything crossed! It's been a good day Exante-wise. I've had a strawberry shake and a chocolate custard and am on my 4th litre of water.

Really good interview. The job is varied and interesting and does involve Caribbean travel - result! Just need to get the job now, they'll let me know next week.

Sitting outside the place for the interview. It's quite rural, but only took me 17 mins to get here. It's blowing a hooley, and raining, you couldn't get much further from the Caribbean in any sense! I've got half an hour to wait, and because I've already had two litres of water and a shake, I...

Sorry to hear you had a rubbish night. Hope you get through the day with relative ease.

Fanks! I'm nearly ready...

Good morning Tuesday! Up early today, I like a while to wake up in the mornings with a coffee & the news, then we're off mattress shopping. We haven't been happy with a memory foam one since we got it nearly 4 years ago. Then I'm off for an interview at 2pm. I will probably start Exante today...

Yum, we had pork roast too....

Yup, it was the thorntons stuff and i should know better!

The husband & I have learned a lesson today - if you eat a load of sugar free chocolate because you're being a greedy pig, you will end up feeling very sick, with nasty stomach ache and the squits. Not nice. Won't be doing that again.

I've been in 'last supper' mode today, prior to starting Exante. I have pigged out rather on diabetic chocolate! Ah well, at least I'm not in full free fall, I know I'm starting on weds so there is a plan in place. I must not continue the pig-out tomorrow.

Hmmm, I have to say it was a long 2.5 hours!