Day 122: My girl and Baggy Trousers weekend

Hi everyone. Well its Wednesday which means its weigh in and blog day!

Firstly, thanks for all the positive comments people keep giving me... either in person, on twitter and FB .  It still feels odd when people say - you look great. On Sunday, I lead an action song and also did the talk at our church's all age service. It was interesting to here so many people say that they could notice the difference in my weight. It was also noticeable that I felt much fitter doing the song.

Secondly, its official - including gift aid, I have managed to now raise over £2000 for the bridge project. Feel so humbled by this, so thanks to everyone who has given money to that. I know the Bridge are amazed by the support

Its been a mixed bag this week. People have asked how and if the way I'm feeling at the moment has effected my diet. Well... up and down to be honest. I go from not eating at all and feeling quite down, to comfort eating when I'm sat at home thinking about things. I guess I need to move on from that but just need to get into Christmas and everything going on at Church and work things out from there in January - I just guess the Jellytots are off which is the hard bit and wish it was different.  I did tweet yesterday that I'm sorry if people are finding me a bit introvert at the moment, but thats me and where I am at the present - and probably you'll learn more about me from here than talking to me. But just need to stay focused on this diet now... I want that next 3 or 4 stone!!!

I had a good day and half away from Friday - Saturday at my good friend and his wife, Rich and Rach Ocone (And their son Joshua). We had a great time and went to see Madness in concert at the Metropoint (hence the My girl and Baggy Trousers title). A great evening, and we went to Pizza Express which was a welcome treat (Pizza and Garlic Bread) - then Saturday it was some great home cooked food by Rach - but also I don't think I've drunk so many cups of tea in such a long time..... I miss the good old cup of english breakfast tea and got carried away I think! LOL! But the one thing that I chatted to Rich about was going on a Rollercoaster fest next year... now I will be able to get back in them! I really cant wait, and so want April/May to be here! I've missed doing theme parks and will be an emotional moment when i get to do all the rides I have missed since being built!

Anyway, weigh in today was always going to be a challenge - but I maintained my weight (so I'm still 18 stone 1 lb). I think psychologically I want to get into the 17's in the next 7 days - so will be trying as hard as I can this week, before the Christmas events and parties start!

Anyway, thanks for all your encouragement, prayers and support!

Blessings

Simon

Day 115: A little wait for the weight

Its been eleven days since I've updated my Slim-a-thon blog.... amazing what can happen in that short time!

I'm not sure really what to say that hasn't already been said by good friends in their wisdom about all my facebook changes and tweet updates, so I'll press on with why you are reading this - my diet - not to hear about what else is happening in my wild and wonderful life. All I will say here is Jellytots and I mean that!

My diet has been interesting in the past few weeks, as much as slimming world has been interesting.

Over the past 2 weeks I have lost 3 lbs - however that been done the hard way (he chuckles). The week before last I decided to have a mega blow out week and boy it was good! KFC (which I wrote about before)... a couple of lunches and dinners out... and I managed to put on 2 lbs. The consultant and slimming world was concerned until I said it was fairly deliberate! 

Then tonight at weigh in I had lost 5 lbs. I think its great to show that actually I have the discipline now to have a bad week and enjoy myself a bit.. and then go back to focus. Think that shows I have made the lifestyle changes. I am seeing more difference in my trousers.... my recent new jeans (the mistake from a couple years ago) are actually becoming looser! January sales may be a calling I think.

I won Slimmer of the month for November with a 9lb loss - thats 3 out of the last 4 monthly awards.

However, over the past couple of weeks at slimming world we were told there has been a problem with the scales that has been identified and has been weighing people lighter than they should have (by about 2 lbs) - and this has been going on since the group began (Jan 2011). Now, your wondering what that means... well in simple:-

*My original weight should have been 21stone 5 lbs

*My correct weight now is 18 stone 1 lb

*So i've still lost 3 stone 4lbs (nearly 21KG)

I'm back in exercise routine now that the ankle is better. I've been to the gym once, played 5-a-side twice, played badminton 1 (thanks Toby for letting me win again). So all good.

The only issue, I guess, is that my appetite has disappeared in past couple of days, but I expect it will return soon!

I had a nice feeling today... that I am so looking forward to going to Thorpe park and Alton towers early next year... who's up for coming?

Well thats it for now. Thank you for your support. The bridge is nearly £2000 better off with Gift Aid recovered - and I'm feeling much better health wise.

Be Blessed and be a blessing.

Simon

Day 104: The week after the week before

Hi Everyone. I haven't dropped off the planet. I am here. 

In honesty - this is the first chance I have had to sit down and blog since this weeks weigh in.  So apologies. Work life is really busy as we approach the 'reason for the season' as they say! Jesus and Christmas!

Firstly - Thanks for all your kind comments on achieving my charity goal of 3 stone and also for the additional money you have given. The total I have raised now is nearly £2000 including gift aid. I just can't believe how kind you have all been. At an exec meeting of the charity I am raising which took place on Wednesday I said to them I couldn't believe how much has come in. I thought I'd do well to raise a few hundred quid, but then realised I could raise that target to £1000.... and you have all surpassed it! Thank you - and thank you on behalf of the charity too!

Also, thanks to those who missed the blog this week and messaged me - Emma, thanks for your words of support!

So whats been happening the past 10 days. Well, I admit, I have been a little less focused on the diet, I must confess. This week I only lost 1 lb. It was a relief in someways.... after losing 7 lbs the previous week I was hoping I didn't put any weight on...and suddenly realise the scales were wrong.... and thank goodness I didn't.

However, this 10 days has been a bit of relax of everything. Yes, on the whole I'm still going for it... I want to lose another 4 stone. But it has been nice to take things a bit easier without the pressure of the charity work. Thursday lunch time I had a burger, chips and salad at Harvester. Last night we went bowling with the youth group and then ended up in KFC afterwards for a supercharger and fries! Today at our Alpha course day, I had a piece of quiche and a cocktail sausage. But I now what I have to deliver the rest of the week to lose a pound or two... so it will be total focus again. 

My ankle is feeling better and I managed to find time to beat my old pal Toby at Badminton again.... I'm going to give football a miss again this week, as it still feels sore, but I am hoping to do a couple of shifts back at the gym.

A couple of people have asked, 'Am I doing the next 4 stone for sponsorship'. Well the answer at the moment is... no. I think I'd feel a bit guilty taking more money. I will have another think later this week. If I do, I think it will probably be for my youth group who have just been given a brand new youth lounge - but need to kit it out, so we can open it up to the community... But as I said, maybe watch this space. Or if you would like to sponsor me a bit more for this charity, let me know and I will then confirm once I decide.

Anyway, thats it for now! Hope to blog next week again.

Take care, blessings and prayers.

Simon

Day 94: IMPORTANT - Shock, horror and lots more

Has that got you looking.... oh good. Well here is the weekly blog and I think its a monster one this week.

A monster one... "why's that" I hear you cry. Well, the bets are all off! "What he's so close and he's lost the plot?"

Nope.........

The bets are off because its time to pay up. It is official! As of weigh in today (5.43pm) I have lost 3 stones in weight in 14 weeks of diet and exercise.  I have to say it was a complete shock today. I've been really busy this week with lots of work things going on: we took handover for our new hall which has taken up a lot of time in sorting intruder alarm stuff, helping with keys, codes, etc (back to my old world again and enjoyed being able to use my JS skills for something worthwhile).

Also, because of my ankle injury (which is getting better - just still a bit sore) I have not been able to exercise much (although I still managed to just about beat my girlfriend Jo at a little game of Table Tennis on Saturday evening at a friends house :-) Sorry love, had to put that in!!). No exercise is usually not helpful in achieving a bit more loss.

So, off to SW today.... and I popped onto the scales - and I have lost 7 lbs this week - Taking me to 18 stone 3 lbs. I was in shock. I misread it to start with..... I thought it said 18 stone 13, and I was thinking... oh! no - whats gone wrong. 

I think as I sit here now, it is just sinking in.  I have gone from 21 stone 3 lbs to 18 stone 3 lbs. I am also in a new pair of trousers which are a size smaller than I had....and are already getting loose (I didn't buy the trousers in the past couple of weeks... they have been sitting in the cupboard for 3 years as I bought the wrong size and didn't take them back.

I feel fitter, quicker, less lethargic and loving life. People can see the difference and are telling me, and for that I am eternally grateful. 

Its a lifestyle change and I would encourage anyone who is thinking about it that if you're not prepared to make that lifestyle change, you will never win. Its about will power, having good supporting friends, enjoying treats, prayer (well I would include Jesus in this), exercise - but ultimately if you keep the same lifestyle and expect to lose lots of weight... forget it.

I am now the lightest I have been for about 7 or 8 years - and its great!

Tonight, I know that I have raised £1700 in money (including gift aid) for The Bridge Project (See my Virgin Money site for details). If you were one of those who don't pay up until someone has done something, or promised extra monies when I succeeded - well this is the time to act. I won't chase anyone, I'm not like that. But I thank each and everyone of you for your support.

Here is the link to the Virgin Money site! Please go there to give, or see me in person. The Bridge Project really value your support as much as I do.

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher

And so to the future, what now? Well this is the beginning? Jo said to me on the phone tonight in an ecstatic way.... well what could you lose up to Christmas now? Well personally I think I could lose another stone. At 2 lbs a week that is possible. I think the key time will be after Christmas... and getting through the hardest time of the year! But we shall see.

I'm a bit more relaxed about this now... with the 3 stone done the pressure is a bit off. But ultimately I want to lose another 4 stone minimum, 5 as a possible in 2013. I'm not going to pick your pockets anymore. But I am learning how to treat myself as well as be determined. Sunday evening was our Youth group bonfire and I had a couple of sausages, but kept within my bread allowance and ignored the crisps, hot chocolate... and Lynn Taylor made a great Slimming lentil soup! 

Anyway, I will continue to blog. Who knows, it may be useful if I stay in SW and end up going for slimmer of the year LOL! (He chuckles!)

Thank you to everyone again. 

Blessings

Simon

PS. If Keith Barnes reads this...... I've done it mate - lets see if you can keep going!!!!!

Day 88: Pow! Bam! Superheroes & Super weight loss

Hi everyone. Well the Title of the post is because I'm still in Superhero mode from last night, where we held a party for 30 kids in our church as an alternative to Halloween! (And if you want a laugh here's the photo of me - I trained hard for this LOL!)

But yesterday was also weigh in day, and in a mad rush I did make the weigh in - but didn't stay for image 'chuck me a sardine' therapy.

But all I can say that my first mini target is very much on the horizon - the 3 stone by New Year! Yesterday's weigh in was a 2lb loss which is now........

......2 and half stone lost (or 35lbs, or nearly 16kg's to anyone in metric). I now weigh 18 stone 10 lbs and its just 7 pounds until I achieve the target.

That 2 lbs could have been more, however I was tempted to IKEA on Saturday (see Twitter, Instagram or Facebook for more details of that) and had a nice plate of meatballs and chips, followed by a strawberry tart ! A nice treat from my lovely girlfriend (NB. The tart is no reference to Jo in anyway, shape or form before anyone tries to make a manufactured comment!)

Things will be a bit harder exercise wise as on Monday evening I popped/tore my ligaments in my left ankle (old war wound from Highbury School that hasn't played up in a couple of years!). 

This is a picture of my ankle at present, and its the same on both sides and also on the front at the top! Typical that it was the best game I was having in ages, and typically after I'd done a little trick that even left me surprised!


Anyway, enough of my injury woes! Here's to the couple 7 lbs to get to the first 3 stone loss.

Have a great week! Thanks for your support. 

Blessings

SImon

Day 81: Celebrations of Life = not as much weight loss

Morning everyone (or Afternoon, Evening if you are reading this later in the day. It was a chaotic day from one event to the next yesterday so this is the first chance I have had to Blog about weigh in....

.....And today it will be short and sweet, as I have lots of work to do.


After a week where it has been difficult to balance the diet with seeing friends and celebrating all week, I didn't really know where the weight loss would be going when I stepped on the scales.

Last Wednesday I ended up enjoying a bottle of wine with friends over a slimming world dinner (thanks Bridewells for the fantastic meal - a great Pork, Cider and Mustard Casserole from the all in one recipe book) - I wasn't driving for a change, so it was nice to relax with friends; Then Thursday the temptation was too great to not have a piece of the chocolate cake I made for the coffee and prayer morning - and I had a small slice; 

Friday was the great celebration of Graduation (I hope you may have seen the photos of me on Facebook - great day and great friends). The afternoon buffet was Beef Casserole and rice and a piece of cake. Jo and I had agreed we were going out for something to eat after the ceremony - which ended up at 9.30pm. So as a one off treat we went to the good old KFC in Christchurch, which I happen to know was there.... don't know how! LOL!

Then Tuesday evening was a fantastic Chicken Casserole with roast potatoes at our weekly Alpha dinner. Alas, these were not slimming world roasties, but were very nice.

So as you can guess, getting to the scales was a concern for me yesterday.

However, I weighed in and lost a pound! So I'm now 18st 12lbs and have lost 33lbs (2 stone 5 lbs!) - 9 lbs away from everyone paying out! Looks like that will be end of November, beginning of December. That was my 12th week at Slimming World - the end of my NHS freebie. I've decided to continue for now, but need to ensure I have the pennies to pay for it at £4.95 a session (or £4.13 if you pay for 12 sessions in advance)

In case you are worried...... KFC was fantastic for a treat, and it was good to be able to relax. It also shows that if you exercise and play fair with your self, your lifestyle and treat yourself on occasions, its ok!

Anyway, time to sign off. Thanks for reading my blog - I am always amazed and humbled by the stats to show how many people read it! 

God Bless

Day 73: 10% in 10 weeks.

10% in 10 weeks. Officially, that is the weight I have lost - 10% of my body weight in 10 weeks.

Apologies for the late blog this week. Was really busy yesterday following weigh in at Slimming World, so thought I'd blog early this morning (its 6.30am as I start to blog).

I think today is a bit of a review really. A chance to step back and look at what I have currently achieved.... So first of all - weigh in this week.

Well, I lost 3 pounds this week, which actually surprised me in a way because I've had meals out in the past 7 days (A very mean roast cooked by Jo's friend Pauline which was superb, but I could count the syns going on and then the Alpha meal on Tuesday night) - although didn't in others as I know its been a busy week. 

So that means that I have now lost 32lbs in weight, or 2 stones 4 lbs, or for those who like metric thats just over 14kg's. 

Or if you want it a bit easier thats 56 of these........

Or, interesting fact of the day... is actually is the same as this, the NHL Stanley Cup..... 

So here are some other stats to bore you over your cornflakes.....

My BMI has gone from 42.61 to 38.02! Over 4 and half points.

I'm now losing an average of 3.2llbs a week, or 1.4kg.

The other thing I am really chuffed about is that yesterday I weighed less that 19 stone.... at 18 stone 13! Must be about 6 or 7 years since I weighed anything like this. T-shirts are becoming baggier - and I can even fit in pairs of Jeans I have not worn for a while!

The area I'm stuggling with is the Gym! Just been too busy, and to be honest not motivated. My normal regime of footy on Monday and Badminton on a Tuesday are still in place, but not been on the machines in the gym for about 10 days. Hoping to get their on Friday.

Anyway, so the big title was 10% in 10 weeks. Its amazing to think how these last 10 weeks have flown by and actually have been ok to deal with. The mind set is there and focus that this is now my lifestyle. Yes, I have the odd treat which doesn't seem to be doing hard - and I can now even make food for other people and things and not worry (See my pic I took yesterday of 3 cakes for an event I'm going to today... 1 lemon drizzle, 1 victoria sponge and 1 chocolate fudge cake!). But the reason S/W have the 10% is because its the point you start to feel the benefit - and indeed I am. I'm not getting so breathless - and can run a bit faster too - and my reactions have quickened up!

But 10% of 21 stone 3lbs is a huge achievement - and its thanks to the people who follow my blog, who are encouraging me and, in my Christian circles, are praying for me. The sponsorship is still amazing and humbling (At near £1500 including gift aid has either been given or pledged!). Possible those who sponsored me on paper will be paying out by end of November, maybe even before!). A bigger thanks to my girlfriend Jo, who is more than supportive at me fading away - but thinking of my food choices as much as I am when we are out, or at friends.

But people have asked, does it stop with the 3 stone.... well, no is the answer to that - as my overall target will be 7 stone! Which as I said to the consultant at SW yesterday is a way off. However I have made this lifestyle change to prolong my life and health.

Anyway, its time to go and do some other things. Once again, thanks for your support... if you haven't sponsored me yet then please do. I even see John Glen (MP for Salisbury) has mentioned the charity I am raising funds for in today's Salisbury Journal!! They are doing great work and would love your sponsorship of me.

So please go and sponsor me here......    http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher

Have a great day and week!

Blessings

Simon

Day 66: 2/3rds of the way there. 2 stone down, 1 to go!!!!!!!!

66 Days!! And tonight its official - I have now lost 2 stone (and 1 lb).

Really pleased tonight as I sit here and blog! In 9 weeks I have lost 2 stone and 1 lb - that is a really big achievement. 

I actually lost 2 and 1/2 pound this week, bring the total up to the magic to 29lbs! I'm actually a pound off of the Club 10 mark of 10% of weight being lost - which will be one now for this week. But I'm losing now about 2 and 1/2 lbs a  week - which seems to be the regular loss figure now!

So it now means that my initial goal of 3 stone by New Year is in sight! There are 11 weeks to that date - so should smash it with 4 or 5 weeks to spare if I keep going at the same rate.

Some people say.... do you notice the difference? Well the answer is yes. Whilst I played like a donkey at football on Monday evening I played like a more mobile donkey. My aches and pains in joints and muscles seem to have disappeared - so yes. People have also said they can see my face is thinner..... I guess its not something I notice... but appreciate the nice comments!

So if you agreed to sponsor me by the stone, then its now time to please give. Or if you haven't had a chance to sponsor me yet..... then here is the chance.

Here is my virgin giving page.....   http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher


Thank you everyone for your support, encouragement, prayers - they are much appreciated. And the finish line of the first target is now over the hill!!! Lets see how this goes!

Blessings

Simon

Day 59: All quiet on the Western front.....

Hi everyone...

Its a quick blog today folks.... I've got a few deadlines to meet - including sorting a question pack out for the youth group's quiz night on Saturday (Quizaid).

Not been back long from Slimming World..... but for a change I came home empty handed. No Slimmer of the week, no raffle - quite relieved actually - only from the point of being the same person winning everything.

So this week was 2 and half pounds.... so that's 1 stone 12 and half pounds..... so hoping it will be a big blog next week as I may well make 2 stones and then also make club 10 in the same week.... we shall see. FOCUS Simon, FOCUS!!!

All else just really busy at present, although still keeping fitness up as well through Football, Gym and Badminton!

Anyway, thats it for now.... here is to a big week this week coming! ;-)

Day 52: Repeat Champ! Feeling Good, looking great!

Hi everyone! Thanks for all your support after last weeks blog. I think I made it over that wall I hit and today I feel really good!

After last week I think I managed to look at myself a bit differently - and this change in lifestyle is becoming a permanent feature in my life. 

I  haven't been to the gym since last Wednesday... I felt I just needed to have a break from it. However on Monday I enjoyed a good kick around with the guys i play with at 5-a-side football - and for the first time I could notice a difference in my fitness - and could run alongside some of the younger lads! 

Then Tuesday I started playing badminton with Toby - as a part of him giving me a bit of a fun, competitive run around (instead of being in the gym) and also to give us a bit of team bonding time together for an hour, before we go off and do a serious meeting. I know he reads this, so thanks for your support Toby. I know he would also not like me to tell you how the 1 hour match turned out. But being the humble and not proud in anyway, shape or form Christian that I am...... I won 4-0 (first time I have played in 8 years!) - there is life in the old dog yet! LOL - well I'm sure you'll get some revenge when you start playing Toby and I know, you let me win! ;-)

Today of course, is weigh in day. I was back to the 5.30pm group which is much bigger - many more claps from the performing seals (couple of fish tossed my way this week). I hope that none of them read this or I may get chucked out LOL!

And so to the scales.... well I lost 3 lbs this week! Very happy. I also won slimmer of the week and picked up 24 pieces of fruit in the process including 2 pears, 3 oranges, 2 miniolas, 3 satsumas, 2 kiwis (my offering), a pink grapefruit, a nectarine, 2 bananas and 8 apples.

I also, as in the picture above,  picked up slimmer of the month again (hence the title of repeat champ - August and September now)..... (can feel a new title of most unpopular slimming world member being awarded soon! LOL)

So here is some stats..... 

Firstly, heres my progress chart from the start of 21 stone 3 lbs in August to now!

The red line is my weight loss, the blue line is predicted (a prediction of 2 weeks time until Club 10, which is 10% of my body weight lost - which is the green line).

Some other stats...... 

• In 7 weeks I have lost 24 lbs
• I now weigh 19 stone 7 lbs.
• In the past month I have lost 15lbs (which was why I won slimmer of the month)
• On average at the moment I am losing 3 1/2 lbs a week
• My body mass index has gone from 42.5 to 39.1
• I am now just 4lbs away from the 2nd stone loss and....
• just 18 lbs from my first target of 3 stone.

I have 4 weigh in's left of my NHS referral at slimming world before I have to decide whether I will stay and pay weekly. I would like to stay, but need to check the pennies really as at £5 a week it is quite expensive... but I do enjoy the proper weigh in! So we shall see!

Well thats all for this week - except to say (as I haven't put the links in the past couple of weeks), I'd love to have a few more sponsors if you haven't already given. I'm nearly at £1500 including gift aid, which will help the Bridge so much.

So here is the link........... http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher

God bless. Thanks for all your words, support and prayers.

Simon

Day 45: A tough week.... but as Bon Jovi said 'Wooooooo we're half way there'

Well, I should be really happy....... but actually I've been feeling a bit down the last few days. Its been a tough week in one way or another.....

Probably my tweets have shown it, and also I've been quite quiet... well, quieter than usual! I felt it on Monday night after moaning at the Governments new education plan for eBacc's (which, as a youth worker I just don't agree with....but thats for another blog)... I felt depressed and quite miserable (Some would say 'so whats new' LOL!) and still feel it a bit now.

I think it stemmed from a weekend of seeing my old faithful friend... good food, and thinking 'I just can't do it any more'. 

Sunday's youth work was the best I've ever been involved in at St Francis (my workplace) - but both involved food. The morning group had a tea and toast morning with toppings. The evening group made their own pizza's. Then l went to a meeting last night where one of the group had made a fantastic looking fruit cake...... AAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!! Inside I was screaming a bit as they munch... it smelt soooooo good.

Then I went to the gym this morning, and really didn't feel motivated to go. I really didn't enjoy it. Felt quite lethargic...short of energy, tired. 

I even went to Slimming World late this afternoon...... and found out I'd lost 2 lbs! Now most the woman there are like... 'WOW, wish I could lose 2lbs', where as I just didn't feel excited. 

It did mean I have now hit 1 1/2 stone....... half way there - and if I lose a pound a week up to Christmas I will hit the 3 stone on Christmas week! Which will be pretty impressive - although it doesn't feel like it tonight!

Now I think this is whats called 'the wall' - that time where the body is thinking, 'ok - this is now for good.... its just you don't have fun anymore SImon'.

And I guess I don't now with Food. This is where the change in diet becomes more than a fad...... but a lifestyle for good!!!!

But got to get myself out of this rutt....... so would value your encouragement and prayers. I'm still losing weight which is a real positive... just all the other stuff!

Thats it for today, I'm off to see Jo (my girlfriend) in a little while who is having a day in day surgery on her knee.... I'm sure that will take my mind off of feeling sorry for myself.

Life is full of temptations, but its how we get through them that makes us better people!!!

Take care, thanks for reading - and you know the usual.... please sponsor me if you can and haven't already done so.

Day 38: Just so much good news!

Well its a week of good news.... and I know I put on Twitter earlier that it was a good news day..... Well it is weigh in Day of course.

Yes, whilst some of my friends think I'm happy because Apple are about to launch the iPhone 5 at 6.00pm tonight..... there are more things than that to make me happy. Although I'd love someone to text me all the details tonight as I'm out at a meeting!

Just come back from Slimming World after the latest weigh in....

So is the good news that I won.........

No! Its not that (although I was pretty chuffed, as much as the others in the group I think are a bit fed up of me winning things LOL!..... I even won the 3.30pm session raffle again (only 3rd time in 5 weeks))

So is it that I lost 3 and 1/2 pounds this week?.....

Well, no - although I am so chuffed by it. I have now lost 19 lbs in 5 weeks (1 stone 4 pounds!). 19lbs is equivalent to 8.6kg, or 34 packets of 250g lard/butter!! 

I can notice the difference (I need a new belt as my trousers and shorts keep slipping and I'm on the last notch!) and other people have said they can notice the difference. One quote to my girlfriend Jo was 'He's fading away before my eyes'. Well I wouldn't go that far... but I'm greatful for the comments.

So what is that has made me so chuffed..... Well I am now under 20 stones... 19 stone 12llbs. Probably the lightest I've been in about 4 years. To me its a significant goal past... quite a psychological figure for me!

With 14 weeks of the challenge left I have 23lbs to lose (so about 1lb and half a week to lose!). If you haven't sponsored me yet, then you know where to go to by now I expect.....

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher

I'm now up to £1200!!! But I know the charity I'm collecting for would love more.... more information on my just giving page about them!

Well thats it for now... have a good few days! 

Blessings

Simon

DAY 32: Most humbled and amazed

A quick blog.... as I log into my Mac this morning, I am amazed to see that I am now going to raise over £1000 for my chosen charity  'the bridge' by completing this challenge.

That is just inspirational to me. In around 40 days each and every one of you has supported me, sponsored me in this challenge - and I am just gobsmacked in your generosity and encouragement. 

Yesterday, saw me reach 1/3rd of the way with my first stone. Today I reach £1000.... unbelievable. Words cannot express how humbled and grateful I feel.

If you have sponsored me anonymously - then a bigger personal thank you, as I can't see you in person to say thanks, or write you a message.

If you haven't had a chance to sponsor me yet... then please feel free to still do that. I have another 2 stone to lose by New Year.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher

Day 31: A month has now gone and here's the result

Weigh in day!! I can't believe that I've now been doing this for over 4 weeks. But I honestly think I'm in the zone.

I know that most people read my blog to see how I'm doing on a weekly basis, so thanks for that. It is so encouraging to know the number of people who are supporting me and who have sponsored me.

Well, the results are in and I am truly amazed this evening as I write this.....

Yes, this is my first 1st achievement award.... this week I lost an incredible 6 1/2 lbs!! The first stone is off... Wooo hoooo!!!!!!!! In total I have now lost 1 stone 1 1/2 lbs in 4 weeks!! I also won slimmer of the week for the 3rd week in a row!

I have to say I really am enjoying this challenge and loving some of the food I am now cooking. For example you may have seen the photo I posted of the slimming world Lasagne..... absolutely divine.

This weight loss was even more impressive to me as I had a nice meal out with Jo last Wednesday and we also went to a wedding reception BBQ on Friday......

My only thing at the moment is.... I need a new belt to keep my trousers up LOL! Thats how much I am losing now....

Anyway, if you said you were going to sponsor me by the stone, well its time to cough up (in a nice way)

And as I always say, its not too late to sponsor me for the other 2 stone I am trying to lose by Christmas. Just go to 

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher

Blessings to you all!

Day 27: 7 days worth of Syns in a couple of days makes one week!

Well, its been an interesting few days, and I had 5 mins so thought I'd update you.

I have to say that its been a hectic week. I've really missed the time in the gym this week (does that sound sad!) but I'm pretty sure I haven't needed it. For those who don't know I've been leading a children's holiday club this week and its constant exercise.... probably 4 or 5 hours a day of walking, action songs, messing around. By the end of day 1 I needed a new set of calves (not not a heard of cattle before anyone retorts)... by the end of yesterday it was calves, thighs, feet, back, arms, etc.

So after my tremendous weight loss on Wednesday, it has been a few harder days. I worked out that I have used virtually a weeks sins in 3 days! Yesterday Jo and I were blessed to be able to go to one of my college friends (Chris and Heather) wedding reception. It was a great occasion - but how difficult it becomes to stay on the diet. It was a good BBQ, with plenty of salad..... but I do love a good burger and a roll.

That tied in with my Wednesday evening celebration of losing my first half stone with Jo, at the V&A means that for the rest of the week now up to Wednesday, it will be a very strict diet and no special treats or syns to try and ensure I lose something this week. That even meant a bit of a change to our church 'mens breakfast' this morning where Chef Stu was more than happy to cut the fat off the bacon and leave some mushrooms separate so I could stay to the diet!

 I'll be back at the gym on Monday - probably every day this week. I am even considering doing a bit of swimming towards the end of the week when kids are back at school, and I get a chance to warn the coastguard that whaling season hasn't just opened in Salisbury - and harpoons are not necessary!

Well, thats it for me - except to say a big thank you to those who have added to the sponsorship monies in the past few days.... very encouraging. I feel very blessed to all those who have given - and I hope I am not letting you down so far. Thanks also for the positive comments about the blog. At the moment, about 50 people read each one... very positive indeed!

As usual, if you haven't sponsored me yet... please feel free to go to 

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher

and add your name and number. Its very secure and an easy way for the Bridge to claim the 
gift aid as well.



I am nearly now at the magical £1000 which would be just awesome...... so thank you everyone.

Until the next blog


Simon

Day 24: Slimming World - Better than doing a weeks shopping (Well Nearly)

Just come back from slimming world as I decided to go to the early session this week because I am going out with Jo (my girlfriend) this evening.

Its a much quieter group (less numbers) which means less time to get through everyone. 

Anyway down to business. Well this week saw me reach a 1/6th of my first target (which tied in with my sponsor target). I have now lost over half-a-stone. I lost 3 lbs this week (good in someways as I had a very late dinner because of holiday club!) which now means i have lost 9 llbs in 3 official weeks or just over 4kg in new money!!)

That is equivalent to just over what an average head weighs - their you go, you even learn things through this blog. Now please don't go and try and see if your head weights 9 lbs! - it could get messy. Its also equivalent to 16 blocks of butter!

But the other news, well - I was slimmer of the week again for the second time (which means I won the fruitbowl contents again) 

Here is a picture with my half stone and slimmer of the week awards!!!

So 3 awards (and I can see why the Kids work love stickers now! LOL) and to top it all... I won the raffle again - winning the ingredients for veg chilli and rice!

As the title said, it seems that being at Slimming World can be cheaper than going to do the weeks shopping! LOL

And so my appeal and plee. If you have not sponsored my yet... then please do - it will mean so much to me and the charity I am raising money more. Encouraging me to go that extra mile to lose this weight!

Please go to:

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher

And sponsor me. 

Thanks for reading, God Bless

Simon

Day 17: Don't know how but.......

Well, you probably thought from the title you are going to see that I've put weight on...... 

Well its ok! I didn't, but it really was a crazy session at the 'performing seals' club (AKA Slimming world. I was hopeful that I'd be writing tonight to that I'd lost another 5 lbs. After all I've kept to the diet and also been to the gym for 5 x 40min workouts AND a 45 min game of football - since the last weigh in.

However, this week was a 1 lb loss (6 lb in total from first weigh in). I guess I was a bit gutted that it wasn't more. But talking to the consultant there are several reasons - and I'm not doing anything wrong.

Firstly, if you've not really done any exercise for years and suddenly you start doing lots your body goes into a strange defensive mode - and stores water... a lot of water. This is to keep the un-used muscles safe and help them recover. Over a couple of weeks, as the muscles start to tone and build up they don't need the water - and release it out the body again. 

Secondly, if you are exercising you are burning off fat, but you are also putting weight on muscles. They have suggested actually putting a tape measure around myself weekly as it may well be I'm losing cm's, just not losing weight at the moment.

Finally, I need to ensure I keep to 2/3rds free food and 1/3 super free food to ensure the weight loss programme is 'optimised'. I am pretty much doing that, but need to be rigid!

In all 3 situations, the weight loss will come in quite a way once the body gets used to the exercise.

But then the unexpected bit.... I was actually.......

It was an encouragement I wasn't expecting, especially as I only lost a pound. I had to look on the internet afterwards to understand how i works, and pretty much its:

• You can't win on the first week
• Any loss has to be followed or preceded by a loss or maintain
• The largest who loses over these rules wins.

The prize... Sticker and Certificate (as above) and then a bag of fruit (everyone brings a piece of fruit with them every week for this)... put it this way, I don't need to buy much fruit over the remainder of the week!

So there we go, the ups and downs of Slimming world, diets, exercise and weight loss.

Thanks for all the encouragement that has been given in words or sponsorship. I'm near £800 - which is fantastic. But its not too late to sponsor me if you haven't. Please go to

 http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher

Busy few days ahead, so I'll probably blog on Sunday evening at some stage.... holiday club approaches... don't think I'll need much gym! 

Every blessing

Simon

Day 16: Cravings and Urges

Who can believe its day 16..... and things are going well still - although it is still tough.

Apologies for the lack of blog. I think I said in my last one that I'm really busy at work at present, as I have a holiday club I am preparing for next week! All great fun, but lots to do!

Well, I went back to the gym yesterday for an hour, and actually pushed myself a bit harder with levels. In approximates yesterday I:

• Cycled 3km
• Ran (on the cross trainer) over 1km - and those who know me will know that this is the hardest part!
• Hill Climbed 100m
• Rowed 1.3km

Thats not bad! I'm trying to diarise an hour a day to go the gym around my schedule - time to relax a bit when things are busy - and also keep fit.

I also played my regular 5-a-side last night. Very hot in Chaffyn Grove sports hall last night and the sweat was pouring off of me. But after 3/4hr I felt a twinge in my ankle and decided to go in goal for the rest of the evening. Doesn't feel too bad this morning, and won't get in the way of Gym which is quite low impact on my body.

Sunday was the toughest day of the diet so far!! I had so many cravings during the day. We had roast chicken for dinner and the bit I always enjoyed is the skin (which I'm not allowed anymore because it has all the fat in it!)... oh, to be able to chomp on a bit of skin would have been heaven - but I had to throw it away for temptation caught the better of me. I actually love the Slimming World diet because roast is encouraged... with lean meat and as much veg and dry roast potatoes as you like - and then you can have a bouillon based gravy using water. Now the gravy isn't gravy really - its like veg broth, but it tastes ok.

Sunday evening.... I could have murdered for a packet of crisps..... McCoys to be precise! fortunately there were none in the house and I chomped on fruit to shut my cravings up.

Also seem to be drinking lots of water now... which is great... Good for my old wrinkly skin! LOL.

Anyway, I resisted the urges, and seem to be doing well! As I write, its 36 hours to the 3rd weigh in. If its a couple of pounds I'll be chuffed, but we shall see. Excercise and Diet should equal WIN - but the body is a funny old thing isn't it!

Thanks for all the donations and sponsorship monies that are coming in! If you still haven't had a chance - its not too late; go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonFutcher and add your support. 

It is so humbling and a real driver to see that support and know how much the Bridge can do.

Until tomorrow evening! God Bless

Simon