A Fad-Dieter- The Last Supper

I'm done! I'm so relieved and so so happy to have finished. It was a long seven days to say the least, but now, at last, I can say I've done it- and without cheating too! (First attempt doesn't count!)

Day seven is hardley a spectacular way to end the week of misery. Eating only brown rice and vegetables with the cabbage soup was neither my favourite, nor least favourite day. I kind of wish it had been one or the other then I could have formed a stonger lasting opinion based on my the 'grande finale.'

I can't wait to have Weetabix for breakfast tomorrow. (Yes, Weetabix. Hardley a treat, but during a week of cabbage soup you'll be surprised what foods you miss!)

I'm going to jump on the scales tomorrow morning, so watch this space for the revelation of results! I don't actually feel thinner and haven't noticed any physical changes, which is unfortunate as some people online said that by mid-week they had noticed the difference. However, the truth in the dieting is in the weighing... (Like I say, watch this space!) 

So, next week's blog- 'A week in the life of a Binge Eater...!' No, I jest. Un-do all my hard work in the space of a seven days? No thanks!
I went food shopping today, and bought mostly healthy goods. I'm not going to be one of those people who pig out following a diet. After the week I've had, doing the basic 'healthy eating' thing should be a doddle.
I have the reciept to prove how well I did, avoided all the cake/biscuit isles and everything! (The 'luxury dessert' was a minor slip up, but it can act as a well deserved treat!) Also, no comments about the non-applicator tampons please- applicators may make life easier but they're considerably more expensive!

On that note, good night! 

A Fad-Dieter: Day Six = Misery

I'll let the video do the talking. Trust me, I feel as bad as I look today!

A Fad-Dieter: Desperate need of a fry up!

Yet another Carnage bar crawl took place in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, last night.  I arranged to hit the town with a group of close friends and acquaintances, all of whom were heading out to celebrate Ashleigh's twentieth birthday.

Although the diet plan suggests alcohol should not be consumed throughout the week, I had other ideas. I'm not enthusiastic enough about clubbing to the extent that I could have a brilliant time based solely on the atmosphere of the place and the company. That's not to say I can't enjoy myself without having a drink. Oh no, no, no, no, no. It's just that there are plenty of other ways I'd rather spend a sober evening. I hate having to try ridiculously hard just to have a coherent conversation with someone who's stood 2 feet away from me. In a club, you can literally be yelling at someone and they still can't make out what you're saying above the noise. Whilst if you're drunk in a club these issues tend not to be so important, and it doesn't matter that you have to queue out in the cold, or that someone is being sick in the corner, or that your toilet door has no lock and yet again there's no loo roll...

So, rather than endure the hardship of an alcohol free night club experience, I decided to devise a list of all the 'healthy' alcohol I could consume. Now, this isn't quite as stupid as it first may sound. A lot of alcoholic drinks have a very high calorie and sugar content, and these were to be avoided. Under normal circumstances I would order vodka and coke, but I wasn't about to un-do all my hard work by filling up on empty calories. There was to be no coke, just vodka!

Camera on the floor moment in 'Walkabout' club/bar Hanley

This logic resulted in me waking up this morning fully clothed with a fake eyelash stuck to my face, a mouth like the Sahara and a very very poorly head. The only plus point of awakening was the fact there was no evidence of any take away lying around. I'm assured I very firmly stuck to my guns, and refused to order a post-club kebab with the others. (Demonstrating self-control whilst drunk? That's new!)

So, having not eaten since tea the following evening, I had a lot of alcohol in my stomach that needed soaking up. A pre-lecture fried breakfast at Ember seemed the most appealing idea EVER, but unfortunately day four of the cabbage soup diet allows only the soup, bananas and skimmed milk. How on earth was that going to cure my hangover?!

It wasn't, basically. I still feel abysmal. The day has been an incredible struggle. I currently have the energy of a sloth and am ready to crawl into bed and rest my weary weary body. I know bananas are a slow release of energy, but surely they should've provided me with a little burst by now! I've been eating them all day! Even typing this post has felt a mammoth task.


Not much is fun whilst hungover, but the cabbage soup diet has to be the least fun thing ever. Under no circumstances would I repeat this day again. Not for love, money, or any amount of weight loss!

A Fad-Dieter: Ice Cream Weather

The second day of the diet allows you to eat all the vegetables you want, (although it recommends staying away from dry beans, peas, and sweet corn,) along side the cabbage soup. (Joy.) As a massive treat, the diet plan suggests you reward yourself with a baked potato with butter for dinner- which already makes the day ultimately better than yesterday!

The weather today was glorious, and my housemate Nelly suggested we have a picnic in the park, and went on to list all the lovely things we could pack up and take with us. Cold pastries, quiche, Doritos with salsa sauce, coke, chicken legs, breadsticks with homous, cake… the list goes on. You name anything unhealthy and I bet you, Nelly fancied it!

After making it clear that I had learned from Monday, and was not about to let her tempt me into breaking the rules again, she suggested we have a trip to Morrisons, where we could make use of their self-service cold salad counter.

Whilst she loaded coleslaw and potato salad, and various types of pasta, (all smothered in lovely mayo) into her box, and topped it off with a sprinkling of cheese and fried croutons for good measure, I was left with lettuce leaves, cucumber and a small amount of grated carrot. Fantastic.

The sunshine enabled me to salvage a pleasant picnic experience, although the food wasn’t a big factor in my enjoyment! I really started to get irritable when Nelly toddled off to get an ice cream from the shop, leaving me to wallow in my self-pity, and continually curse the stupid diet.



Even the Hanley Park ducks were getting fed more than me!



I cooked myself the biggest jacket potato I could get my hands on for dinner. I figured I wouldn’t be coming across carbohydrates again until day seven, so I may as well make the most of it.

Tomorrow I get to eat fruit AND vegetables… oh how will I cope with the sheer variety and choice…?!

Give me Weight Watchers points any day, at least they allow you to eat chocolate!

A Fad-dieter: Day One (Take two!)

Really regretting ordering Dominoes yesterday, especially since I crumbled so late in the day. My evening meal was my final hurdle, and yet I couldn’t bring myself to jump! Ahh well, they say “tomorrow’s another day,” and today has been.

Breakfast- Fruit Salad

Lunch- Soup

Snacks-4 Clementines and ¼ melon.

Dinner- More Soup.

Boring, but bearable. I’ve coped, and neither feel hungry, death like or drained.

I forgot to weigh myself before starting the challenge yesterday, but seeing as I failed anyway, I guess that doesn’t make a lot of difference. Jumped on the scales after guzzling down that pizza last night.  Probably should’ve done it this morning on an empty stomach, but a dramatic weight loss will look more impressive this way!




Apologies for the trampy looking feet. I'm aware a coat or nail varnish wouldn't go a miss!



A Fad-Dieter: Day one- EPIC Failure!

Day one of the cabbage soup diet should consist of eating all the soup and all the fruit you want (except bananas). And drinking only unsweetened teas, cranberry juice and water.


Well, I got off to a good start. I prepeared both a fruit salad and a batch of soup last night and had those for breakfast and lunch (respectively.) I tend to mainly drink water anyway, and have a real soft spot for peppermint tea- so with regards to liquid intake, it wasn't as if I had to fight against a fizzy drink craving or anything. Easy.

This evening I had to endure my usual Monday excercise bonanza, which involves hockey training from 5-6, then badminton from 6-8. I had a cheeky bowl of the fruit salad before I left, as I literally can not function if I haven't grazed readily enough throughout the day! Both sessions were fine. We combined our session with the lad's at hockey training, but that was nothing us gals couldn't handle!


The problem came when, after badminton, I just wasn't feeling eating the soup again. I wanted something tasty, and to be honest, felt as if I deserved it. I put 'forbidden foods' to the back of my mind, but still couldn't bring myself to eat the soup.


Then my gorgeous house mate, Nelly Tyanase returns home. Forgeting all about my challenge, she barges into my room and announces her own hunger! Her opening sentence didn't even begin with a 'Hello,' just "If only today was tomorrow, we could do Dominoes 'Two for Tuesday!!!" Well, I was quite glad that today was Monday, as half-price pizza would have been a rather appealing idea, diet or no diet! Nelly left, and once again, forbidden food (specifically Dominoes) went, rather reluctantly, to the back of my mind.


By this point in the evening (about 9.30) my tummy was rumbling, so I was begining to come round to the idea of eating a helping of the cabbage gunk. As I trundled through to the kitchen I became acutely aware of the Dominoes menu on our dining room notice board, as well as the 'Huge student savings' leaflet, which is full of Dominoes discount vouchers!

Stupid, diet ruining discounts!

Now, I was praying they were past their expiry date, because otherwise resisting picking up the phone to order was going to require all my psychological strength!
Great news for Nelly- the vouchers are valid until August. Not so great news for me, as within three minitues of opening the menu I had placed an order for two large pizzas! Not only that, when the kind man on the phone politely asked, 'Is that everything Madam?' I replied, 'No, chuck two cans of Coke on there too!' Rules were been broken here there and everywhere. NOT a great start to my week of maximum self-discipline.

A constant reminder of my failure...! :-(

And so, the diet starts again at breakfast time! Wonder if I can freeze my leftovers until my diet week is up... seriously, too good to waste, or give away!

Nom, nom, nom,. The remains of my 'Mighty Meaty!'



A Fad-Dieter

This week’s challenge is going to be a major struggle for me! I’m a big fan of eating- I just LOVE food! I tend to munch what I want, when I want, but unfortunately this is becoming visually apparent. Last time I went home my Mum took one look at me and said “Blooooody Hell. Have you put weight on!?” (Obviously not a big believer in diplomacy!) She didn’t just leave it there either. Oh no. Her next line was ‘What on earth have you been eating!?’

Given we’re approaching the Easter break soon, I’d like to be able to go home and not receive that reaction. I’d also like to be able to fit into my favourite pair of jeans. They were a pre-university purchase, and I used to have to wear them with a belt, but now I can’t even manage to squeeze my thighs into them! Sad times.

Now, I know as well as the next person that fad diets are stupid and the best way to lose weight is through eating sensibly and exercising. Well, I already do rather a lot of exercise as it is, and couldn’t really do much more, so limiting my food intake is the only way. A short term fad diet seems like a quick fix, and so I thought I’d put one to the test.

If there was a ‘Family Fortunes’ style survey done on Fad diets, the Cabbage Soup Diet would surely be the top answer. Because of its reputation, I've decided to give it a go!

This video pretty much explains the diet... and also highlights what I already know- that fad diets are not sensible. Oh well...!

I’ll let you know how/if I cope with having to exercise some form of self-discipline.

The diet starts tomorrow- literally!

A Tourist- My top travel tips

Following my week away I’ve devised a list of five top tips for all tourists. You may feel this post has been a long time coming, and yes, I know I’ve been back from tour a good few days now but I’ve literally been shattered since I returned. Which leads me nicely onto tip number one…

1.) Give yourself enough time 

Whilst you’re away you need to make sure you allow enough time to achieve the aim of  your trip, whether this be seeing all the sights, developing an in depth knowledge of the culture, or regaining your sanity after a hectic week at work.

You also need to consider how much time you will need either side of your trip. You may need a few days previous to pack and get organised, and, (if you’re anything like me) a few days to recover afterwards.

2.) Do some research.

Obviously the location of our tour was a secret, so I couldn’t do any ‘geeking up’ before jetting off.  However, if I was planning my own trip itinerary I would want to ensure I was getting the most I possibly could out of my visit. Therefore, checking out the best, and choosing your favourite touristy hot spots before travelling, is a must. A sly glance at the weather forecast never hurts either.

3.) Be financially savvy

It’s no good if, having chosen what you’d like to do, you don’t have the funds to support you. So unless money is no object, spend wisely and work to a budget. This is as important when booking flights, transport and accommodation, as it is when paying for activities or excursions. Some hotels often offer discount cards for local amenities, so check with hotel staff to see if they can get you any money off. Remember that quite often, if you don’t ask, you don’t get!

4.) Follow the law

Now this may sound like an obvious point, but you don’t want to go getting yourself into trouble, especially if you’re in a foreign country. Social norms vary greatly throughout different countries, and it’s important that you understand and follow laws/traditions. At best you’d appear ignorant, disrespectful of rude, but considerably worse than that, you could potentially find yourself under arrest. For example, marijuana use may be legalised in Amsterdam, but could get you into serious trouble in other countries.

Those of you who are ‘Sex and the City’ fans will remember the trouble Samantha got into whilst holidaying in the Middle East. As her date kindly points out, (1.03) what may be acceptable in Paris or Madrid, may not be in Abu Dhabi!

The video shows the actions which led to her arrest.

Finally, 5.) Learn some of the language

If you’re doing the touristy thing abroad, it’s always handy to know a little of the language- it’s unrealistic to suggest becoming fluent in a language for the purpose of a short break, but learning a few key words and phrases can help you get by. You can’t guarantee that there will always be someone around who speaks English, and even if there is, locals usually appreciate efforts made to speak their language- despite the fact they could probably more easily understand your English! 

So there you have it, my top tips. And if they weren't enough, I've included a slide show of pictures capturing some of my favourite tour moments- enjoy!


All Clip Art icons courtesy of http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/images/

A tourist: Greetings from Amsterdam!

[1] One of Van Gogh's most famous works

Today's itinery took us to the Van Gough museum. There was a vast and impressive range of his most famous works as well as a history of the artist. Vincent was deep, but his works weren't necessarily 'ear'y!

My friend and fellow hockey girl, Janine Hickie, studies Fine Art and I thought I'd get the most out of the experience if I shared it with someone who was passionate about the subject matter. She expanded on the information provided, and I'm now a transformed art enthusiast!

[2] Bols liquors

If you're begining to think that we are also transformed culturalists, you'd be wrong! 

This was followed by a visit to the 'House of Bols.' There, we were allowed to smell EVERY different flavour of their liquor. We were told to choose two favourites, and we were given a shot of each. THEN (and bear in mind this was all before 3pm) we were given free cocktails! YUM!

 Amsterdam looks beautiful in the sunshine and I can't wait to learn more about this wonderful city, its inhabitants and its heritage- whether this involves more alcohol or not!

Off for a steak soon- hopefully line my stomach appropriately for the bar crawl later!

'Dag' for now!

Pictures courtesy of
1. www.artec.org.uk/gallery/van_gogh_sunflower/
2. www.bolscorenwyn.nl/pages/view.php?page_id=124

A Tourist

This week I shall be living my life as a tourist! Now, this isn’t so much a challenge as a little holiday, BUT, there is a twist.

Those of you who have read any previous blog posts or know anything about me will be well aware that I’m a hockey player. Each year the club’s social secretaries arrange for members to spend a few days away from uni, giving us a chance to bond as a club, take a break from training, and do what the gals do best… DRINK! (Pretty sure that to pass University regulations we have to take part in some form of educational visit- I can only hope that this doesn’t interfere with my hangover!)




Picture courtesy of  eurobri.blogspot.com

  Now, about this twist. Because the club doesn’t like to do anything via conventional methods, (we’re a bit too kooky for that sort of behaviour) the location of the tour isn’t revealed until we arrive. Whether that be at an airport, a ferry terminal, or if we’re very unlucky, we may be dropped by bus at our final destination!

This surprise element is a major inconvenience for a number of reasons.

1.)    There can be no checking up on the weather before you pack, (if you take only beachwear and it snows, then you freeze, and will probably be made to drink whiskey as a punishment for your stupidity!)

2.)    You have no idea how much money to take as you can’t check how much things cost over there.

3.)    Well, the suspense is a killer!

We depart into the unknown tomorrow evening. I’ll try and make sure you’re the first to hear where we end up!

In the meantime, I need to get travel insurance, some form of currency, find my passport, and do a load of washing before I can even contemplate packing. So far, my week as a tourist is equating to completing chores- this best not be the case once we arrive!

An Environmentalist: Birthday Celebrations!

Yesterday was my birthday. (My teenage days are over!! *cries*) When I realised my big ‘two O’ was going to fall within my eco-week I emailed close friends and family who I thought were likely to send cards. I explained my situation and said as much as I’d appreciate the kind thought, I didn’t think the sending of cards was environmentally friendly.

Don’t get me wrong, I do keep extra special cards and those with lovely messages inside, but I can’t condone felling trees when I could just as easy archive a nice email/text message!


One in particular gave me a good giggle though. (My brother obviously a fan of Moonpig.com, and their satirical humour)

If only the caption were true... :-/

My friend Matt Payne bought me a lovely Thornton’s Chocolate cake instead of a card. (I think he was almost killed whilst buying it, but that’s another story!) I’ve never tasted birthday sentiment before, but phew, it sure is good!



Matt presenting me with the lovely cake!

 As part of my challenge this week I’ve been trying not to get cabs places. So far I’ve been walking as many places as possible, and getting around via car sharing, public busses and trains- all in aid of shrinking my carbon footprint. Last night however, after having a lovely meal out and one (or three) too many glasses of wine, I succumbed to getting into a cab. The gang and I did try walking back from Newcastle-Under- Lyme, but with a bad sense of direction, rather large heels and the additional general impairment that comes with drinking, a taxi was our only hope!

When you get to the point of spooning in the road, and thinking nothing of it, it's time to call a cab!

 Out in Hanley tonight and I’m afraid to say the same will no doubt apply. Don’t judge me on my lack of eco-principles- it’s my birthday!

An Environmentalist: "Milk, sugar and extra 'eco-points' please!"

This week has been so hectic. Between one thing and another I just haven’t had chance to keep you updated on my environmentalist experiences. You’ll be pleased to know I’ve not been neglecting the challenge though, which busts the myth that being eco-friendly is time consuming.

Because I’ve been on the go a lot this week, dashing between lectures, sports fixtures, socials and the like, I don’t think I’ve actually sat down with a meal or a drink. When you’re hungry and hurried or in desperate need of a cuppa, take away outlets become your best friend. But what this may save you in vital minitues, will cost you in eco-points.

Now, I work in a motorway service station and we serve vast amounts of take away drinks. Many people moan to me about the price of our coffee, but it's the paper cup that really costs the earth! I can imagine that cups that leave our premises sit in a vehicle drinks holder for an hour or two and 120 miles or so later are binned at the next service area. I doubt that very many if any, are recycled.

A Westmorland take-out coffee, in my car

When you consider how many take away drinks the large chain outlets must produce, it’s easy to imagine that collectively, we ‘take out’ Britons are cramming landfills faster than you can say "Cappuccino to go."

Not wanting to become part of the shocking statistics, this week I’ve been carrying my trusty flask mug. There’s not much available on the Starbucks menu that hasn’t found its way in there. It’s really done me proud!