~I survived all things sugary and savoury...~

Our row of lights - Diwali - signifying the light over evil, a spiritual end to an auspicious day

Wow! Today was a true test in staying power and determination, the same determination that has kept me going for the past 3 and a half months.  As I type this I am reminded that it's all about choices, and that I can choose the lifestyle that I want to be mine! 

Growing up as a kid, our home was filled with the fanfare of Diwali for weeks on end.  My working mom would use the evenings and her weekends off to prepare the sweet treats and savouries for the auspicious celebration.  The morning of Diwali, the kitchen was declared a war zone, with my dad running around frantically cleaning behind my mom, who was in the throes of cooking all things delicious. I miss those days....But our home was no different to those days, this morning.  Hubby P got into the groove of frying the delicious samosas and springrolls and helped me get through the morning routine with minimal mess or fuss. For once he didn't ask me to taste any of the fried offerings - I think he's got used to how I manage my new way of life :)

 Lunch was at the home of my sister-in-law and a traditional Diwali meal of vegetable biryani (a rice dish), dhall (lentils) and soya prawn curry with salads was served.  Having been grain, dairy, processed foods free since July 18, 2013, I planned in advance and prepared my own meal of vegetables to take along with me and complimented it with a delightful green salad!  Thankfully our hosts were not offended that I didn't partake in the main meal and I think somewhat surprised that I had come prepared (although, they did offer to prepare something especially for me!).  Again, planning and preparation is instrumental in my journey and I was pleasantly surprised that given advance warning, any situation may be adapted to accommodate a healthy lifestyle!  Visiting relatives to exchange platters after lunch, was pretty much similar.  What encouraged me even further was the fact that my weight loss and energy is noticeable!  This was evident in the numerous compliments that were adorned onto me lol!  Some very shocked and startled folk too! :)


I enjoyed the family spirit that our little family got involved in today, from the morning prayer which our 8year old so enthusiastically initiated, to the all together packaging of the platters for family and friends and the lighting of the diyas (lamps) that signify the end of Diwali, which literally means 'a row of lights' meant to remove all obstacles.  For me this Diwali held special significance, in that I could blend my choice of a healthier lifestyle change with that of my family and friends, and still partake in the enjoyment of the day...it's all about choices.... Aluta Continua

Progress Pictures of my journey.  The two end pictures show me a week before embarking on my journey to health and weight loss utopia.  The in-betweeners are me currently.