The long and winding road...

5 weeks into 2013 and I've somehow managed to lose 5lb, with only one week showing a gain.

So far so good you say? Maybe, but it hasn't felt like that until today. There have been times when I've been ready to throw in the towel, stop worrying about trying to stick to the plan and just eat whatever I want.

Over the last year my weight has tended to yo-yo around the same level and it's got me down in the past, but it's time to draw a line. 2013 has started well in terms of weight loss - at the same rate of loss then I'd lose another 3 stone by the end of the year and therefore achieve my interim target.

I've discovered the wonders of our slow cooker and used it for a few meals this week. Preparing or planning meals in advance seems to be a big factor in achieving a loss, so I'm hoping to do more of that in future.

Another thing that helped was having such a supportive group - when I felt like giving up they played a part in persuading me not to and made me feel so welcome when I went to weigh in.

The other person who takes a lot of the credit is my amazing wife - without her I could often fall into a pit of despair and self loathing. She is my strength when I am down; my support when I cannot stand; my hope when I have none; and I love her more than words could ever say.

As an aside, I've not added to this blog since November, but still had over 300 hits in January (the second highest hit rate since I kicked the blog off just over a year ago. Thanks to all those who read this blog - I hope it helps you some way on your journeys.