About 18 months ago, I made peace with myself. I decided that I wasn’t going to chase that elusive 9 1/2 stone, and that toned tummy. I had reached my happy weight.
And that was great! I was hitting 10 stone, and fitting into all the clothes I wanted, I felt good.
I’d tried extreme dieting, done various exercise regimes, like the 30 Day Shred… but it wasn’t possible to keep it up. I had even done daily weighted Hula Hooping!
Then teaching happened, and along with an extra 3 hours a day at work, my pressure levels rose, my stress levels were higher, there was no time for exercise, and my eating pattern went haywire.
I still ate three meals a day, I didn’t have time to snack at work, but I was drinking more tea. Instead of one cup, with one sugar, in the morning, and herbal teas during the day, I started saying yes whenever I was asked by my colleagues, and one cup turned into around 4. My evening meal got later and later, and sometimes I wasn’t eating until 9.3o or even 10pm! And the worst thing, we had resorted to more takeaways than I wanted.
I knew I was putting on weight. My clothes started to feel really tight, I was uncomfortable in whatever I usually wore. My lethargy was getting worse again, despite taking my Vitamin D supplements.
It was the straw that broke the camel’s back when we had the photo shoot in Finland. The pictures were beautiful, it’s just I had acquired a double chin! And my face was looking decidedly plump.
I was still in the middle of term, there were reports to be written, new children to visit, and all sorts so I made a decision that, come the summer holidays I would make a conscious effort to try and improve my lifestyle. On purpose, I didn’t weigh myself. I didn’t want to know!
Today I went for a routine check-up at the Dr’s surgery. BP was fine. Then he asked me to step on the scales… Had he taken my BP then, it would have been through the roof! I knew there would be bad news on that set of scales, I just didn’t want to have it confirmed.
And it was BAD! I am 72kg, which is over 11 stone! That is the heaviest I have ever been!
In fact, the Dr was concerned, as the last time I was officially weighed, I was 2 stone lighter! When the scales hit near that weight last time, I had literally just given birth to Lil Princess, so there was a good excuse.
I was ashamed! How could this have happened? Speaking to my Pops today, even he said that he didn’t want to mention it to me, but that I had looked more ‘cuddly’ last week…
So I made that decision. I had to do something.
I invested in some detox tea last week, and had started drinking it, causing a few headaches, and a day of dodgy tummies, but that was settled.
I had made a conscious effort to eat better and was cutting out excess carbs like white bread, chapattis and pasta. Eating lots of fruit, and healthier alternative snacks…Sorry Malteasers, I cannot look at you at the moment!
So, when I got back from the Dr’s I downloaded the My Fitness Pal app so I could log my food and (any!) exercise. Then I found the Map My Walk app too.
Right. According to the Fitness app, I should be aiming to consume 1200 calories daily to aid a steady 2lb a week weight loss. And after logging my food today, I was already over by 200 calories!
So, when I got home from my in-laws, I promptly took the kids to the Gurdwara playing fields and did this!
I went for a brisk (well, brisk for unfit me!) walk for half an hour, and nearly walked 3KM! Go Me!!!!
Hot and sticky, I showered, then got the kids ready for bed.
It felt pretty good, having that walk. I need to do that regularly.
Pops even gave me another one of his ayurvedic tips. When walking hold your ring finger down with your thumb on both hands. It activates various functions, like the liver and kidney, and helps promote the weight loss too!
Now I am fighting cravings… it’s the pull of the late night snacking that I have got into the bad habit of recently. Tomorrow I am having a fasting blood test first thing in the morning, so I can’t eat or drink anything other than water for 12 hours!
But I CAN DO IT!
I know I won’t get the toned tummy again, that would take a lot of work, but if I can get myself feeling slightly like myself again, that would be perfect.
Here’s to a healthier Ritu, and I hope to update you with good news in the near future!
Have a good week all!
noellovesfitness
Aug 16, 2016 @ 04:14:04
Keep on trying! Don’t give up! Just keep making steps in the right direction. Also, substitute fruit for your sweet cravings. That really helps me.
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Ritu
Aug 16, 2016 @ 09:00:54
Thank you! I do try to… Recently with decorating, I have been grabbing whatever void us around, rather than planning my meals, but I will get back to it!!! And the extra exercise helps too 😊
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stevetanham
Aug 04, 2016 @ 07:58:02
I have to do it every year, Ritu. I like my food too much, not to mention the ‘occasional’ red wine! But every year it does work, so at least I feel in control of it long-term. Stick with it, girl! x
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Ritu
Aug 04, 2016 @ 08:45:43
Thank you Steve! I shall try my damndest to cracking this!!!!
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stevetanham
Aug 04, 2016 @ 12:09:26
I’ve met you, Ritu, and I saw gentle determination in those eyes!
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Ritu
Aug 04, 2016 @ 12:18:07
Oh I can definitely be determined Steve… though my Hubby Dearest may call it stubbornness!!! Just completed another walk 😊
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willowdot21
Aug 03, 2016 @ 19:53:26
You can do it girl! Keeping a food diary helps but you must be honest it is hard. Smaller meals too, try using smaller plates. Snacking is bad so keep raw vegetables handy, and fruit melon is good as it is mostly water. Exercise is excellent walking is great or you could join gym . Weigh yourself once a week maybe post it and we could support you. Sending you hugs!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 20:01:54
Thank you Willow! I’m the My Fitness Pal app to log my food and staying away from the usual snacks. If I have a sweet need moment I bought some Weight Watchers cake…but that’s just in case. I’m drinking herbal teas and lots of water. And the walking is going to be my exercise!
I will post weekly about results I think…. maybe more if I feel the need, but it definitely helps, all the support of my blogily !
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willowdot21
Aug 03, 2016 @ 20:57:33
Rooting for you!!!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 20:59:15
😊😊😊
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🌐 'M.' 🌐
Aug 03, 2016 @ 17:37:36
😀✌
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 17:46:40
👍
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keen peach
Aug 03, 2016 @ 15:38:48
You still look beautiful in your photo though! Nevertheless, I know how good it feels to get back on track. You got this girl. Have you ever made a vision board? They actually really work! I made one and read/pray over it every morning. It really keeps you focused!
PS- How fun is hular hooping? I have one too! Love it!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 16:03:25
I look at some photos from 2 years back when I was at optimum weight and felt good!
And the hula hooping… when I was a kid I couldn’t hula for toffee! Then a nurse came to our work to do routine fitness checks. She said all was OK with me (then) but that I could stand to lose a couple of inches from my waist, and she recommended hula hooping. So I bought a weighted one (it’s huge!) And, aside from, a few bruises initially, I was hula-ing for 10 minutes a day! Loved it! I could hula and read blogs at the same time lol!!! I should start it again….
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keen peach
Aug 04, 2016 @ 00:24:56
That’s awesome! The weighted ones are the best. You should totally get back into it!
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Ritu
Aug 04, 2016 @ 01:24:42
I’m trying ! Thanks for the encouragement 😊
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syl65
Aug 03, 2016 @ 15:22:33
You can do it Sister!! Don’t let the malteasers tease you! 🙏🏽💪
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 15:35:52
Lol!!! I’ll try my hardest Brother! 😁
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syl65
Aug 03, 2016 @ 16:14:42
Haha, I know you can do it! 😊
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 16:18:17
😁 I need faith in me like that to keep me going!!!
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syl65
Aug 03, 2016 @ 16:58:11
It will be there when you need it!! 😊
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 17:11:11
Thank you 😆
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syl65
Aug 03, 2016 @ 20:34:56
You’re welcome Sister 😀
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Aimer Boyz
Aug 03, 2016 @ 15:04:39
I know how the weight can creep up 🙂 I just gave my daughter a bunch of clothes that are too small for me. I’m paying attention to what I eat again, even though cookies and chocolate (Malteasers!) are my idea of heaven.
Thanks for that ayurvedic tip!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 15:05:38
Good luck to you as well then!!! Malteasers are my true downfall!@!
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Tikeetha T
Aug 03, 2016 @ 13:49:14
Good luck! I know the feeling. I recently got diagnosed as diabetic and I’m struggling to. Exercise and healthier food choices and staying motivated are definitely a struggle but if you envision it and work towards it you can get there. LOL, at leas that is what I keep telling myself.
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 14:08:22
Well I’m busy telling myself that too lol! We’ll get there!
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Judy Martin
Aug 03, 2016 @ 12:47:08
I saw this last night Sis and was really sad for you. When I met you at the Blogger’s Bash I thought then and still do, that you looked lovely. I didn’t think you seemed overweight at all, but of course, it is all about the way that you feel yourself.
I too am struggling with my weight and despite trying desperately to cut the carbs and lose weight, I still seem to be fluctuating! Anyway, I am here to cheer you on and offer any support that I can, but remember you are still beautiful both outside and in!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 12:49:06
Sis, you are so lovely!
I think because I know what I can be and can see what I’ve become… I need to do something for me at least!!! Thank you xxx
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Judy Martin
Aug 03, 2016 @ 14:16:19
I know what you mean Sis and I have no doubt you will achieve it 🙂
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 14:36:02
Thank you for your faith! 😁
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Ruth
Aug 03, 2016 @ 11:46:17
I seriously need to do something about my weight – the older I get the more it worries me health-wise. Perhaps I should try blogging about it as I go along, to see if it helps me with motivation and moral support…? Good luck! 🙂 x
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 11:48:06
I think it will help! We can motivate each other!!
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eloquentparadise
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:45:07
I feel you because I have put on 4 kgs in the last 20 days, owing to a back muscle tear which doesn’t allow me to exercise. Ugh.
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:47:07
I’m really trying to sort this out though! Hope you’re feeling better soon!
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eloquentparadise
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:50:29
I hope, too. Best of luck with your weight loss, superwomaniya. 😀
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:52:58
I need all the luck I can get! Thank you! ✌💪🏃🍉🍎🍌
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eloquentparadise
Aug 03, 2016 @ 11:09:29
Haha. Try including lesser carbohydrates and more proteins in your diet. And you’re good to go!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 11:46:41
That’s part of the plan!
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Antonia Michele
Aug 03, 2016 @ 09:51:46
Good luck, sounds like you’re off to a flying start.
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:14:50
Let’s hope I don’t flag after a few days!!! Thank you!
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pranabaxom
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:10:12
If I could have been 72kgs.
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:18:03
It was an eye opener for me!
I guess I carry the weight well, so a lot of people don’t believe I’m overweight, but you know what, it’s worse when you know it yourself…
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Erika Kind
Aug 03, 2016 @ 07:25:01
I guess sometimes the motivation is really only back when you hit a point that scares you. I know for sure that you will succeed. You are having a strong will and when you set yourself a goal you will reach it. It is all about habits. Your body gets used to treats quickly but you will be surprised how quickly it gets used not to get it. A bit discipline, drinking lots of water, and regular sports do wonders. You can, Sis!!!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:16:26
Thank you sis!!! I’mma gonna try my bestest!!!!😍
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Erika Kind
Aug 03, 2016 @ 16:58:50
You are the bestest…. no other way but succeeding, Sis!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 17:11:50
I’ll walk my way to fit! (Hmm…may be a post title in there somewhere!!!)
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Erika Kind
Aug 03, 2016 @ 17:13:27
Sounds very good and very motivating!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 17:14:38
😍
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Erika Kind
Aug 03, 2016 @ 17:15:36
😘
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Diya
Aug 03, 2016 @ 06:16:46
Good for you Ritu for taking positive steps towards your dream You! 🙂 I’m sure this post will be an encouragement for many out there who are in the same boat. Thank you for sharing 🙂
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:14:56
Thank you Diya! If others out there want to share their journey too, I think it gives us all encouragement and motivation to try our best!
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amommasview
Aug 03, 2016 @ 06:07:21
I honestly believe if you manage to eat earlier again a lot will already be done! I totally know how life can throw you off, even if you had great intentions and kept on track for a long time. My weight shoots up as soon as I stop working out. I think that’s the price you pay after working out for years. Your body is just too used to it. So with a really bad back for over 3 weeks now, I will hopefully be able to start working out again next week and then it will all be better…
You can do it, Ritu! xoxoxoxo
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:14:09
Thank you Sandra!!! I know. The late eating is so not good, so I’m going to make a conscious effort to eat earlier now! 😘
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amommasview
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:01:57
See, for me is the wine. If I’m stressed I drink my glass or two of wine and that gets to me weight wise…
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:15:53
I’m not much of a drinker…thankfully! But it’s chocolate..!
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amommasview
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:33:03
I have my sweet tooth in check at the moment.. I think I need to turn it around again…
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:33:28
Uh oh! Lol!!
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Rajiv
Aug 03, 2016 @ 05:25:12
As we say in India, don’t worry. Be happy. Have a Charminar! Stop chasing stones, and you will be cool!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:13:19
Lol thanks Rajiv-ji!!
I’m not chasing them… They’re chasing me!!! I want to lose them!!!
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Rajiv
Aug 03, 2016 @ 11:17:28
Drop the stones. Tell Isaac to help you 😉
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 11:47:03
😁won’t that be cheating?!
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Rajiv
Aug 03, 2016 @ 11:58:10
Nope. Sir Isaac is an old friend from school. I can put in a good word for you….
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 11:58:49
Oh. Well, if it’s that simple!!! 😉
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Rajiv
Aug 03, 2016 @ 11:59:21
Yep… Shall I tell him, then?
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 12:04:52
I guess a little help is allowed!!!
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wwwpalfitness
Aug 03, 2016 @ 03:49:34
Reblogged this on wwwpalfitness.
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:12:33
Thank you Paul
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wwwpalfitness
Aug 03, 2016 @ 15:44:43
You’re welcome Ritu
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Julz.......artist, blogger, photographer, graphic designer
Aug 03, 2016 @ 02:29:22
good luck
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:12:23
Thank you Julz😊
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Shadeau
Aug 03, 2016 @ 01:48:50
I wish you all the best, always–but to me, you’re beautiful, and adorable too ❤
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:12:12
Aw!! You are so lovely! 😍 Thank you!
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Shadeau
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:16:12
You’re Most Welcome!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:16:37
😊
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Shadeau
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:23:50
🙂
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Dinata Misovec
Aug 03, 2016 @ 00:56:42
It is so easy to gain and so hard to lose. I lost about 15 pounds with this Clostridium Difficile bacteria in my gut. I stopped walking because I didn’t want to be too far away from a toilet! I was starving all the time and started snacking. Now the clothes are getting snug again. Just like that. Ugh. Now it’s back to the discipline for me too.
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:11:36
Well. Good luck to you too then!!! A little group motivation makes a helluva difference!! Thank you 😊
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Timelesslady
Aug 03, 2016 @ 00:54:13
Thanks for the tip about holding the ring finger down with my thumbs while walking. I’ll give it a try. 🙂 Keep walking…you can do it.
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:10:17
Thank you! I’m going to try my best!!! And I shall be trying the finger thing on my next walk too!!
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Timelesslady
Aug 03, 2016 @ 19:45:12
I will too!
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Lisa A.
Aug 03, 2016 @ 00:11:54
Just keep walking and cutting down on some snacks, Ritu. Try not to eat after 8 p.m. I know this is easier said than done but I’m sure you’ll get there! I want to lose a few pounds too so I quit drinking soda last week. I’ve lost 2 so far! I still want to lose 10-20 more if possible! I also want to start hitting the gym again. I got off track after my car accident.
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:09:15
Thanks Lisa. I know the snacking in the evening is bad, or eating late, so I’ll be trying to curb that. And I will try and walk as much as I can too! Good luck getting back on track too!
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Lisa A.
Aug 03, 2016 @ 11:18:24
You can do it! ❤🤗
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Meg Sorick
Aug 02, 2016 @ 23:25:32
Best of luck, Ritu!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:06:51
Thank you Meg! I’m motivated so far… Hope I stay on track!
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makingtimeforme
Aug 02, 2016 @ 23:21:59
Good luck friend. I’m struggling with extra weight too. Keep up the good work.
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makingtimeforme
Aug 02, 2016 @ 23:23:43
Oh and as it turns out, I too am 11 stones. I’m 5’7″ though, I shall go back to your graph now and see what that makes me.
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:06:26
You’re taller than me, so it’ll look better for you!!! I’m 5′ 4.5″
The 0.5″ is is always important lol!!!
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makingtimeforme
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:45:34
LOL. Well, you got this. Hard work and dedication. Though it sounds like you really want it, so I know that you can do it!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 10:48:07
I managed a similar feat a couple of years ago…but I was younger, I had more time and energy… still I’m not expecting miracles so slow and steady eh!!!
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:05:13
Thank you!!! I think I’m gonna need all the encouragement I can get!!
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Jim
Aug 02, 2016 @ 22:59:32
I’m here to help by eating those nasty foods that taunt you.
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:04:43
I’ll send you a package!!!
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Becky Ellis
Aug 02, 2016 @ 22:52:51
You will meet your goal…you are on the right track…your photo is beautiful!
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Ritu
Aug 02, 2016 @ 22:56:41
Aw that is sweet of you to say Becky!!! I need all the luck I can get to try and control myself now!!!
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swo8
Aug 02, 2016 @ 22:50:56
You look good in the hula hoop!
I find what helps with me is to cut out desserts. (except for special occasions) If you you brush your teeth right after eating you tend not to nibble later. Portion size makes a big difference too. Good luck Ritu. All for good health.
Leslie
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Ritu
Aug 02, 2016 @ 22:55:59
Thank you Leslie! My sweet tooth is my downfall so I will be trying really hard!!! All encouragement welcome!
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swo8
Aug 02, 2016 @ 23:55:28
Me too, Ritu. I’ve had to stop a lot of baking. If I make it I’ll eat it. Store bought is no temptation.
Leslie
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 08:07:54
I wish my tastebuds would make that distinction… But unfortunately all sweet stuff looks good!!
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swo8
Aug 03, 2016 @ 15:50:40
It may look good but most commercially prepared sweets really aren’t all that good.
Leslie
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 16:04:08
That’s what I’m telling myself now lol!
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swo8
Aug 03, 2016 @ 16:04:46
Now home made baking that’s another matter. Avoid at all costs!
Leslie
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Ritu
Aug 03, 2016 @ 16:17:49
Lol! But it smells soooo good!!!
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swo8
Aug 03, 2016 @ 17:07:01
It does!
Leslie
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pensitivity101
Aug 02, 2016 @ 22:31:15
Good luck with your weight loss. Finding something that works for the individual is half the battle.:)
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Ritu
Aug 02, 2016 @ 22:33:52
Thank you! I think I’ll be needing all the encouragement I can get!!! ☺
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