@Minnie888 I wasn't going to follow a plan as such, as they've never suited
me, and i've always struggled with the structure of them.
I'm trying to be more intuitive, and simply approaching it as, one meal at a time, and making a good choice at each meal, cutting down on snacks, being more active in the day while I look for the type of workouts I like to do. I do find that eating more protein/good fat satisfies me more than eating a lot of carbohydrates.
I also haven't set myself a time limit or goal as such, I obviously bought that dress, but as I already own it in my current size, it'll be waiting for me when I get there! I suppose another reason behind the lack of plan, is to be a good role model to my kids, I'd hate it if they felt like they saw me dieting in the way I did in my 20s and felt that was normal (it wasn't, it was extreme). I also recognise now that it is a life long change and I want it to be sustainable, even if it takes longer, I also want to be gentle with myself and build my confidence.
Welldone! Running is a huge achievement. Those non scale victories
are such incredible motivators. I think I cried the first time I ran any distance, as it was such a big thing for me.
I think with Christmas, I'll indulge but still practice moderation. I'm not good at stopping when I'm full, I grew up in a "finish your plate or your not leaving the table household", and I'll tell you, that mindset sticks with you! So I will be trying to listen to my hunger cues, stopping when full, and saying no more.