So, here we go!

So, hello and here starts my blog.
I first became a weight watchers member when my eldest daughter was young. I had reached just over 12 stone and being only 5ft, you can imagine what I looked like. I didn't feel myself getting bigger. They say children can be brutally honest...what made me join? My friends children commenting on the fact I had a big bum...all the time! It made me feel really self conscious and unhappy. I thought it was time to do something about it. So I joined my local group with my mum. Didn't really like the leader much, needed inspiration and didn't really get it from her. Gave up a while later. Tried a few fad diets along the way, but weight watchers got me back...again! This time, my leader Emma was great. She was funny and encouraging. I lost a fair bit with her but didn't tend to stay to the talks. I was going with a friend at the time and it was always a bit of a rush. I gave up again because I always felt as though I was in competition. I really believe that you need to have the right kind of support. If you want to join with a friend or relative, make sure they will support you in losses and gains. No-one likes perfection! I always followed the points system as it kept me in control of portion sizes. The last time I joined was again with Emma, but at a different meeting. I had a stone to lose to reach my goal weight and I started helping in the meetings, weighing other members. This way, I managed to listen to the talk and hear from other members how they were doing and what they found hard. With 6lb to go, I was approached by my now ASM, Marie who asked me if I had thought about becoming a leader. I said that I wanted to get to goal before making the choice. I started training in other meetings and found it so interesting and knew that this was what I wanted to do. Marie was great, someone who listened and answered any questions however silly. Ireached my goal weight on 9th May 2007. I went to boot camp and was trained in the "arts of being a good leader" The night before my presentation, my Dad was taken into hospital ill. I worried all night, but still managed to do my presentation and pass. I then found out my Dad would be fine. I left my current job and took up 7 meetings. And here I am today...two years down the line, still loving what I do. My leader always said to me you will get out of it what you put in...I agree. I work really hard. In my first year as a leader, I achieved diamond leader status. I was so proud of myself. I always give 110%. Message to my members, I will always help if I can, but you have to tell me you need my help, I can't read minds! I believe to be successful with your weight watchers plan, you have to look at it as a way of life changes. I don't give things up, I shouldn't have to. Following this rather long post, I will add the things that work for me, how I overcome issues and get back on track after weight gain, the things that I encounter in my meetings and the fun I have. Thanks for reading...feel free to comment! Karen xx