SPOILER FREE REVIEW

**This book may potentially trigger those suffering or recovering from an eating disorder or disordered thoughts about eating. It does not talk about numbers but contains many behaviours and may affect you if you are not in the right mind to read this.

Title: Countless
Author: Karen Gregory
Publication date: 1st June 2017
RRP: $16.99

Synopsis:
When Hedda discovers she is pregnant, she doesn't believe she could ever look after a baby. The numbers just don't add ip. She is young, and still in the grip of an eating disorder that controls every aspect of how she goes about her daily life. She's even given her eating disorder a name - Nia. But as the days tick by, Hedda comes to a decision: she and Nia will call a truce, just until the baby is born.
17 weeks. 119 days. 357 meals.
Surely she can do it, if she takes one day at a time?

In many countries across the world, eating disorders have the highest mortality rate within the mental illness spectrum. You probably weren't expecting that.

Books that cover eating disorders can be very hard to write. Sometimes they come from real experiences and sometimes, completely fictional. They can also be very triggering for a reader; though as long as they come with a trigger warning it is up to the reader to decide whether to continue or not. I think this book really got it right.

I found Countless incredibly interesting in the sense that it was a good story but also perhaps a very real one. What readers need to keep in mind is that those suffering from an eating disorder go through it very differently to others. What you might read in one story will be very different to another however, both may be what sufferers actually go through - it is never a one specific way. Karen Gregory managed to write this novel in a way that could help those who don't know a lot about these mental illnesses have a better  understanding of how a sufferer thinks in a perhaps, more broad sense.


Our main character, Hedda, falls pregnant while in the grip of an eating disorder - something I've definitely never read about before. It follows her life through different types of relationships, but the one most important to her is her eating disorder. Hedda's character was written really well and I was constantly feeling empathetic with her as the story drew me in with each page. One of my favourite aspects of the book is that it sends a message of what is truly required for recovery - I don't want to mention my specific thoughts since it could be somewhat of a spoiler.
The writing flowed very nicely and I always in tune with what was happening, in fact, eagerly awaiting more.

The other different characters we meet were very important to the story and I felt that every single one of them was necessary and relevant. I enjoyed every single chapter no matter who the other characters around Hedda were. It was always intriguing to know what was happening and I was never bored.

I really enjoyed Countless and highly recommend it to those interested in picking it up. It's an emotional story and one that more people should know about. I feel like this will definitely be one of my favourite contemporaries of the year and I'd love to know your thoughts if you read this one as it comes out tomorrow.

4.5/5

That's all for now, I'll see you soon for another book review very soon!

xx


*This book was sent to me by Bloomsbury Australia in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.



WHERE YOU CAN FIND ME:
Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Instagram: @erenareads & @erena_b
Goodreads: @erenareads
Twitter: @erenareads
YouTube: Erena Reads or click here

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Hello everyone,

The beginning of the year always seems to be my better reading months. I feel motivated and focused and really into whatever I'm reading - it helps when you read great books! This month I read 8 books, woohoo!!! Majority of them were incredibly good, with my first read and the last read being my favourites of the month. If you want to watch the video version of my January Wrap Up, click here!
Otherwise keep reading...




BOOKS

1. Illuminae - Jay Kristoff & Amie Kaufman
I bought Illuminae almost a year ago and have just let it sit on my shelf with every means to read it but never picking it up. After talking with a couple of Bookstagram friends about it, I was easily convinced to pick it up soon. It can seem an intimidating book because it's so big but it's written in different formats where on some pages there's hardly any writing and there's lots of instant messaging and emails that you read. After the first 100 pages I was seriously addicted, it is so FREAKING GOOD and intense and written in a way I've never come across before. You 100% need to read this epic sci-fi ok? Ok.
 5/5

2. Kiss of Fire - Rebecca Ethington
I got this ebook free on Amazon (it might still be free!) and because it was on my kindle, I started reading it when I was in America. I had left it for a while and picked it back up again this month and was easily back into the story. This took a while to get into the actual interesting part of the story but I still found it easy to read and it's not a very big book. It's a fantasy YA about magical beings and there's good and evil and all that. When the main character knew what she was, I felt it wasn't explained enough and her learning the magic she has was really rushed. But overall it was still an enjoyable read and I've book two is better!
3/5

3. A Monster Calls - Patrick Ness
If you watched my December Book Haul you would have known I purchased this beautiful illustrated edition. I picked this up because the movie comes out soon and it was also a short book. I finished it really quickly and absolutely loved it. It was quite a unique story and really pulled on the heartstrings (perhaps wrenched them off?) If you want to buy this book, I strongly suggest purchasing the illustrated edition as the amazing pictures really added to the story. They're also illustrated by the same person who does the Harry Potter illustrated versions (Jim Kay).
5/5

4. Our Chemical Hearts - Krystal Sutherland
I wouldn't say I had high hopes for this one, but I'd heard it was really good from the Bookstagram community so I was thoroughly disappointed with this one. Overall, the story was kind of enjoyable though the relationship of it all was toxic and a let down. The two main characters, Henry and Grace were both interesting but it would've been better if it didn't involve one or the other as much, does that make sense? I didn't like them together in the story. I really liked Lola (one of Henry's best friends) but I also didn't like (actually - really hated) that for his other best friend who hails from Australia, the author overdid the commercial Australian thing. In parts it was meant to be some sort of joke but it was so overdone, it made me loathe anything that came out of his mouth. Also the author is Australian?! Anyways, I think this book would be better suited for a younger age group.
3/5 (maybe 2?)

5. Yellow - Megan Jacobson
Now here is an Australian author that got it done right. This is set in like the early 90's maybe?? and it was so on point with Australian culture in the story. This is about Kirra, who is going through a rough time in her life and ends up picking up a ringing phone to an old telephone box and when she answers, the person on the other end was actually murdered 20 years ago and is stuck in a sort of limbo until his murderer is caught. Interesting right? This was a phenomenal story and I highly recommend this book! The only thing that pissed me off was what happened in chapter 3, it was unnecessary.
4.5/5


6. The Diabolic - SJ Kincaid
Another sci-fi novel this month, is about a world where 'Diabolics' are created for the protection of the people who buy them. Nemesis is sent in her 'protectee's' place when she is summoned to the royal court and has to act as the royal heir she is seen to be. This book was fast paced and interesting and I enjoyed myself immensely. It was also very unpredictable and I had no idea what was going to end up happening - I had my theories and they were all wrong but in such a good way. I loved how this book ended up and I am looking forward to book two.
4.5/5

7. Sidekicks - Will Kostakis
Another YA Australian author brings you a story about three boys who all had the same best friend who died. It's told in three parts - one part for each boy, and goes through their grief process and what happens next. This was a really enjoyable read and I'm so, so glad that I finally got round to reading it. My favourite character was Harley, 'the rebel' of the story. He was such an interesting character and I enjoyed reading from his point of view. My least favourite was Miles, he wasn't very likeable but I think that was intended. Overall, a really great story and I'm looking forward to reading more from the author.
4/5


8. My Sister Rosa - Justine Larbalestier
Oh my lord. This book is insane. In the view of 17 year old Che, he and his family move around a lot and his main focus in life is keeping his sister Rosa under control. Rosa is a 10 year old psychopath and holy heck. I've never read anything like this before and it was absolutely incredible. Rosa is creepy and twisted and like no character I've read about before. It was a nice change to read from a different view to do with mental disorders. I seriously need to scope out more books like this as I may be addicted! The only downside to this story was that there was a bit of 'instalove' which I wasn't keen on, but other than that SO, SO GOOD!
4.5/5


What an incredible reading month! I hope to continue this 'incredibleness' into February before I go back to uni (YOU CAN DO THIS ERENA!).

FEBRUARY TBR

1. City of Glass - Cassandra Clare *I am trying to finish this one that I started over a year ago - oops!

2. Scarlet - Marissa Meyer *Buddy reading this one! Come join me @erenareads on IG

3. Anna Dressed in Blood - Kendare Blake

4. Gemina - Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff

5. Harry Potter & The Goblet of Fire - JK Rowling *This is constantly on my tbr but I'm trying to make a really dent in it this month.


And that's it! I hope you enjoyed reading about what I was reading and it inspires you to pick up one (or more) of these books. Make sure you check out my Instagram @erenareads for daily posts and chats and my YouTube channel for bookish videos and lifestyle vlogs.

See you soon!
xx


WHERE YOU CAN FIND ME:
Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Instagram: @erenareads & @erena_b
Goodreads: @erenareads
Twitter: @erenareads
YouTube: Erena Reads or click here

Follow my blog with Bloglovin'!

Nourish Me Well... I love the name, and it sounds delicious! When I was contacted if I wanted to review a box, I jumped onto their website here and was instantly in love (I then quickly followed them on Instagram @nourishmewell_box).


As of late, I've mainly been blogging about one of my true loves: books, but every now and then you'll see me post something about food and health/wellness - my other loves.

I received this box early in the morning before I went to work, so of course I ripped it open and had to know what I was getting into. The bad news - I had to only look and not take (eat) and head off to work, waiting for home time until I could race back, take some photos while there was still some natural lighting and then I could dig in, and dig in I did.

The Nourish Me Well box is the newest health food premium subscription service. This one is for Australian's only and contains some incredibly yummy goods. Each month contains 5-8 full size products delivered straight to your door, once a month for only $34.95. Now I know this seems quite a bit, but I did say premium. If you can forgo your daily coffee's and bring your lunch to work - this is totally affordable, especially when you're getting full sized goodies!

There are three options when subscribing: you can go month by month, 3 monthly (save $10) or 6 monthly (save $20) and you cancel anytime, no catch!

Now let's take a look inside the box:

1. Naturally Nood Bars: Cocoa Lamington Bars
These great little bars are packed with real food and none of that fake stuff. These are great for on the go, taking them to work or school, or just that 'I need a snack' moment. These are one of my favourite things in this box and would definitely buy them for my future 'I need a snack' moments.
RRP Single 35g bar $2.49, 4x35g bars $6.99

2. Kitz Living Foods: Coconut Dream Classic
I love me some coconut goodness and for there to be minimal and organic ingredients - yes please! Sweetened with brown rice syrup makes it not too sweet (therefore, perfect) and still gives that chewy goodness. My mum gave me a great idea to make my own bounty bars out of them (using the cacao powder later mentioned, I will be doing this!)
RRP 150g $11.60

3. Thinkfood: Pistachio Cranberry/Cashew Sesame Munch
I got the Pistachio Cranberry flavour and holy goodness, let us pray! This was my other favourite of this box and were the first thing I ripped open. A lot of products similar to this are too sweet, but this is the perfect amount mixed in with some salty to savour your taste buds. They come in bite size pieces and you can either eat this all at once or snack on during the day - I took them to work and made sure I didn't get them out in front of people so I didn't feel obligated to share. I will definitely be repurchasing these.
RRP 140g $5.50, 20g mini range $1

4. Byron Chai: Indian Spiced Tea
When I opened up the packet it was such an intense smell; chai will do that to you though. On my info card included in the box, there is a serving suggestion which I sort of followed and it was pretty good! I think it'll taste best with milk so I added almond milk - keeping it vegan and let it sit for a bit. This doesn't come in tea bags, so you need to be able to strain it if you don't have a tea infuser - these are really cheap though! Overall, not too bad - not my favourite but I'm a tea lover for sure.
RRP 100g $5.99


5. Power Superfoods: Raw Organic Cacao Powder
I haven't opened this, simply because I already have an opened one in my cupboard. But I'm very happy it's in this box and I now don't have to buy another one :) Want to know something interesting? This particular cacao powder has over 360% more antioxidants than regular cocoa; cool hey? I know I'll enjoy this as I use it a lot already!
RRP 125g $7.95

6. Sealand Birch: Birch Water
Birch tree sap tapped from the trees to the bottle. This one made me the most curious... When I first took a sip, I didn't really like it - I'm not really sure how to describe it but I know people will definitely like this! Especially the others flavours, which I'm also curious about. How I enjoyed my Birch Water, was putting about 1/4-1/3 of the bottle into my water bottle so it was a little diluted and I found it refreshing and delicious :)
RRP $4.95


Like mentioned earlier, you can find out all the information you need to know here and you should definitely give their Instagram a follow @nourishmewell_box because they are currently holding a GIVEAWAY for their February box! This box was not only delicious, but I love trying new things and I will seriously be purchasing some of these at my local grocery store soon.

If you have any questions, please comment down below or you can ask me on Instagram (see below) and I'll get back to you as soon as possible. Until next time, take care.
xx


Disclaimer: This subscription box was sent to me to review; all opinions are my own.



Where you can find me!

Contact: erenabennett@gmail.com
Instagram: @erena_b
Bookstagram: @erenareads
Goodreads: @erenareads
Twitter: @erena_bee

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Here for you today are my last Goodness Me box deliveries. I have combined them as I received my January box very late into the month, a week later came the February box. Both months boxes were definitely better than the previous two - in my opinion.

I have tried various items in both boxes and will let you know what I think below.

Hello everyone.

I know it hasn't been too long since my last post, but that's okay since this post should have been published a month ago!
As you may or may not have seen in November, I purchased a subscription box with 'Goodness Me'.
The Goodness Me Box is a health food box for $25 a month (free shipping).
In my November box I received an array of goodies, some of which I would repurchase, some which I will not. However, I love being able to try these food items and finding new health foods to continue to purchase in the future.



Here is what I got in my December box:

1. Higher Living: Vitality & Ginger Kick
I always love a good tea. The ingredients in all of Higher Living's teas are natural and certified organic herbs. Great for you're feeling a bit sick, or whenever else you want it!
15-20 bag pack RRP$3.69

2. Henry Jones & Co: Fruit & Chia - Mango, Passionfruit & Chia Seeds
I haven't tried this yet as I have other jams in the fridge, but I'm looking forward to it! This would go well on toast, muesli, smoothies, oatmeal and on cheese boards - yum!
290g RRP $4.99

3. Mayver's: Original Super Spread
I wanted to buy this a while back but didn't because I have a bunch of peanut butters I still need to get through - so I still haven't opened it yet but hope to soon. It looks super yummy and made up of (only) chia, sesame, almond and 4 'super nuts'. There's no added oils, salts or sugars and would be delicious on pretty much anything.
375g RRP $7.99



4. Lupin Foods: Lupin Flake
I never heard of this before it arrived in my Goodness Me Box. "Lupins are the world's richest natural source of combined protein and dietary fibre" (as said on the packaging). It can be used in salads, dips, muesli and protein balls (I'm also sure it can be used in many other recipes). I haven't used it myself yet as I'm still unsure what to use it with!
480g RRP $8.00

5. Jomei's Fine Foods: Balsamic Vinegar
I'm not the biggest fan of balsamic vinegar, unless it's on bruschetta. However, I have already opened this and let others use it and they loved it. I may be willing to try it out on other foods, but never the usual foods people have it on (salads, meats, etc) - I thoroughly dislike the taste.
50ml RRP $5.20

6. Crio Bru: Brewed Cocoa
Made form 100% roasted cocoa beans and nothing else. It is to be brewed like coffee - it has instructions on the packet. I haven't tried this yet as I am trying to find an easier way of brewing it. I definitely look forward to it though.
71g RRP $4.00

7. Naked Paleo: Cacao Almond Paleo Bar
I didn't finish this and gave the rest to my boyfriend. It was okay, very paleo-y (duh!) which I'm not the biggest fan of. If you like paleo bars you'll definitely like it and I love the packaging, but I wouldn't repurchase it for myself.
65g RRP $4.50

So that concludes this months box. Quite a few things in here that I'm happy about! And some, not fussed. I'm glad I got to try them though.

Next months box (January) will be my last box as I will cancel my subscription - I still have plenty of food in my cupboards! I will be posting next months box as well so stayed for that.
If you want to join up, click here.

Hope everyone is having a lovely start to 2015!



Email: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Instagram: erena_b
Twitter: erena_bee
Pinterest: erenabennett

Over a month ago I came across 'Goodness Me' - a subscription box filled with healthy food goodies. I didn't join up straight away as I wanted to make sure that $25 per box was worth it.
I signed up for their emails so I could get some insight into the product. After waiting a couple of weeks and browsing through their Instagram (@goodnessmebox) I decided to go ahead with it only to find they had sold out of their November box!
A couple of weeks later in mid-late October they sent out an email announcing more boxes available so I went ahead with it! The hard part: waiting.

I have since received my first Goodness Me box (November 4th).

1. Sam Mills: Gluten Free Fettucine
100% corn pasta. Free from gluten, GMO, dairy, egg, soy and cholesterol. Low in GI and low in fat.
I received the full size of this product.
500g RRP $2.99

2. Higher Living: Green Tea Chai, Cocoa & Chilli and Licorice
100% natural and certified organic herbs are used. I love most tea, so this is a winner.
In this box I got two of each of the above flavours (6 in total).
15 or 20 pack RRP $3.69

3. Mama Bickie's: Grain-o-la
Made from wheat free oats, locally harvested nuts, natural maple syrup and organic coconut.
I got a single serving pot of 75grams. Would be great for a snack or breakfast when milk or yoghurt is added. This product has more sugar than I would usually go for, but I can imagine it'll be yum!
420g RRP $15.20 - very pricey!

4. Nakula: Organic Coconut Water
No added anything; one ingredient: organic coconut water.
I'm not actually a fan of coconut water. I'm yet to try the flavoured ones which I could possibly like. I would use it mixed in smoothies, just not by itself. What is pretty cool is that the company (Nakula) donates money - not sure how much - to provide drinking water for children in schools and orphanages in Asia for every one can that is sold.
I received a full size 330ml can.
330ml RRP $3.95

5. Luv Sum: Chocolate, Chia & Nut Naked Energy Shot
Contains chocolate, chia and assorted nuts which means it's going to be delicious!
I received one full size ball (42g) and I have already eaten it, loved it and would repurchase.
42g RRP $3.50

6. Bioglan: Camu Powder
The Camu Camu fruit contains a naturally high content of vitamin C, and is the highest known content than any other food. It has 23 times more vitamin C than a small orange!
Reduced to a powder, you can add a teaspoon to water, smoothies, juices, cooking, baking and desserts.
I received the full size 100g - score!
100g RRP $26.95

7. Norbu: Natural Sweetener
100% natural sweetener derived from monk fruit. 96% less calories than sugar, low GI, fructose free and GMO free.
I received 4 2g sachets.
200g canister RRP $7.99 or 40 sachet box 80g RRP $4.99

8. Ceres Organics: Chopped Tomatoes in Tomato Juice
I wasn't really fussed about this product. What's great though is the combisafe packaging it's in as it keeps the product fresh without using additives or preservatives. I will definitely use this product as it's something I know I will like.
I received a full size.
390g RRP $3.15

9. Bite Smart: Paprika Dusted Organic Cashews
Free from preservatives and artificial additives.
I have already tasted these and wasn't fussed. There isn't much of a flavour, so I think an added herb or spice would make them tastier otherwise they don't have much of a market for me.
I received a 35g pack.
35g RRP $3.50 - you can get bigger packets that don't cost too much more.

So that was all the products in my first Goodness Me box. I am pretty impressed with it, however I have read on other consumers Instagram's that this box was not as good as previous boxes.
I definitely want to get the next box, and then I will decide from then whether I want to keep going with this box.
It also comes with two recipes each using one of the ingredients from the box, which is a good idea for those unsure on what to do with their products.
I am really glad I came across this subscription box. It gives you a chance to try a bunch of different 'clean' foods without having to buy full size products and for a discounted price.

If you're interested in signing up or just want to have a little look then click here!
I hope you enjoyed this post and see you soon!


Instagram: erena_b
Pinterest: erenabennett

This is a super quick post to let you all know what has been going on and why I haven't been posting.

As I may have mentioned in a previous post I had plans of moving out of home, well that went through and I've been living with Beau for over a month now. We have no internet!! I'm not sure yet whether we will get it, though I do really want it.
I've also started a new job and have recently resigned at my former workplace and am on the pathway to new things! My new job is 'Administration Officer' at the hospital, where I'm just at the reception desk, having a cruisey time (and I get paid well!)

So, that is pretty much it.
I have been trying to write a blog post on a certain topic that I have never covered before and am having trouble with it, trying to get it right.
I want to try and do more recipe ones and 'A Week in Photos'; among other things.

My number one thing is to try get a post up as soon as possible (not including this one), to keep you all interested.

I hope you are all well, and hope to keep you interested!

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Pinterest: erenabennett

Hello everyone, 
I had this post on my previous blog and I absolutely must have it on here. I have edited small bits, but nothing to vast.


I prefer to post healthier recipes, but they're are just some things you have to have - this is one of them.
I know you could use different ingredients for a healthier option, but I haven't quite worked up to that - though I will write up a recipe as soon as I perfect it!
This one is super quick, easy and delicious.

• Dark chocolate
• Peanut Butter
• Marshmellows - mini's or chopped

• Nuts - I chose pecans, but any is okay - chopped if too big

• Shredded coconut

Hello all,

This is a little post for you today about my new project I'm doing (pictures below!)
I was looking in the ALDI catalogue the other day and found this 'Grow Your Own Herbs' kind of thing - and it was reduced to $6.99! I thought it was a great idea and have just purchased a set this afternoon.

The pack includes:

• 6 different herbs (Basil, Chives, Coriander, Oregano, Parsley and Thyme)
• 3 ceramic glazed pots (with a blackboard area)
• Soil pellets
• Chalk
• Wooden tray

You read right.

When I first thought of this, I thought I was being original but then I thought about it and realised, no probably not. I then googled it and many images came up. But did they look as good as this?!?!?!





Super easy to make and with the right ingredients, not too bad for you!
*The ingredients I post will be what I used, however feel free to put on whatever you desire.

For one serve:

Ingredients:

• 1 wholemeal english muffin, halved
• Tomato paste
• 2-4 spinach leaves
• 4 cherry/grape tomatoes
• Dried basil
• Light mozzarella, grated
• Barbecue sauce

I actually posted a similar recipe (with blueberries) on my old blog, I was going to post it again but realised the pictures were rubbish. I wanted to make it again for both deliciousness and photos to repost however, I knew Beau (the boyfriend) would prefer apple over blueberries, so here is a healthy recipe for Apple Crumble... enjoy!

Fresh from the oven!

The perfect crumble-ness

Complete with (unhealthy) ice cream

Now before I start any of this, I just want to let you know what I am NOT a nutritionist or any kind of health professional, but my older sister is, so that's basically the same thing. No, I am kidding (she is though!). I just want to share with you parts of my experience when I started really getting into healthy eating.
Another note* I won't be telling you what to eat and such because, once again, I am not a health professional and also different things work for everyone. What I was eating might not work for someone else. I just want to give you tips!







1. The most important: Water. For some people, drinking a good amount of water was hard, because you just wouldn't feel thirsty and some people forget. I knew I wasn't drinking enough. I went a bought a pretty cool looking water bottle and it went everywhere with me. I found myself filling it up a few times throughout the day. I think the reason was actually because I really liked my super cool water bottle! Really inexpensive, and it worked well for me!

2. Before you really kick off your new eating habits, write down what you're eating and the times you're eating at for a week. After the week is over, look back at all things you ate and try to identify what you think is okay and not okay. If you want more help with it, go see a health professional and they can tell you exactly what you're putting into your body. Once you've changed your eating habits, you might find it helpful to record your new diet, whether it's to look over your changes and find things you might want to switch around or remove and replace, or to simply help you get back on track if you're having trouble.

3. Start reading nutrition labels on packaged items. If you don't know how to read them properly, just look it up, or ask a professional. Really easy to learn and remember. Some things will come across as healthy, or a product might be pretty good for you, but you might pick up a similar product that ends up being completely different. It's also really important to look at the serving size. You might pick up a product that looks like 1 serve, but nutrition details on the back might have '3 servings per package' or something similar. I know it seems a bit silly, but it happens.

4. 'Fat Free' products aren't necessarily good for you. A lot of products, such as yoghurt and muesli are low fat or fat free but are made up for it with sugar. This is where reading nutrition labels come in handy. I am definitely not saying "Don't eat yoghurt or muesli" because in the right size they make a healthy meal or snack. You just have to watch how much you eat and don't eat the same thing every day.

5. Prepare and Organise yourself. You don't have to "Meal Prep Sunday" and cook all your meals for the week. Just grab a notebook and write down what you'll eat and just make sure you have the necessary groceries. If you plan, you don't have to think about what to eat for dinner and wondering should you just stop off at a takeaway joint on the way home, because you know what's waiting for you at home. *A relevant note to add: If you do write down what you eat, make sure it's in a dedicated 'food only' or similar notebook. Don't have anything that isn't relevant in there. If it motivates you, buy a notebook you enjoy the look of, the inside seems better when the outside looks good.

6. Snacks are important! You've got to keep your metabolism going. You might have breakfast and not really feel hungry for a while and when lunch comes around, hours later, you might find you are incredibly hungry and just eat whatever is in sight (not everyone is the same, but is happens). Once again, for more information, seek a health professional, you have to find what works for you (keep reading).

7. Not everyone is the same. If you ate the same things I ate, the outcome might be different. You need to know what works for you and you only. You might need different amounts of protein, carbs and fats to someone else.

8. Treats are okay, every now and then. I like to say "Treats are good for the soul", and it's true! If you've been working hard and you're staying on track with everything, please know, that you deserve that chocolate chip cookie with your cup of tea tonight. Don't say no or feel guilty about it if you really want it and you know you've earned it. It might be your motivation! From personal experience, I have never cut out ice cream since I started eating a lot healthier - I love it too much! I just made sure I worked for it. Just remember not to feel guilty if you do eat unhealthy from time to time. It's not necessarily 'bad food', I guess you could say it would be unhealthy to be 'too healthy'. As long as you eat in moderation, you're aware and don't have it too often, there isn't really a problem.

9. Exercise! Not my most favourite word... From my own experience, exercise wasn't my top priority, it was a lot harder than changing my food choices. Though, I got to a point where I knew I wanted to tone up - and I have to exercise for that! I knew I wanted to stay motivated and keep going with it, so I started off small. If I went to see a fitness professional and they told me to do three half hour walks, and three strength workouts in a week, I would probably make it half way and not be interested in it anymore, because it was just too hard to start off with. I started off with small workouts and a walk around my suburb here and there, and now I find myself liking to exercise and doing it a lot more. It makes you feel good!

10. Finally... Don't give up. If you don't see or feel a difference in the first week, it's okay. Yeah, it's good to keep a note of your weight and body measurements, but don't do it so often. You've got to see what works best for you and keep at it. The most important thing is feeling good and being healthy about it. Find motivation that suits you, and reward yourself on your hard work. It isn't easy at first, but it is necessary and eventually becomes natural, and you'll love yourself for it.

YOU ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN YOUR LIFE

I hope this helps you if it what you are looking for. Once again, I am not a health professional of any kind, I am just sharing my thoughts and opinions with you on what helped me throughout my own experience.