Lol guys, with regard to the question about christmas it wasn't actually that bad as i had so much support and courtesy from my extended family, bless them, and i think that can make the world of difference! It feels amazing to have lost over 5 and 1/2 stone - to go from a size 22 to a 16 is just incredible. Don't think i've ever been a size 16! I tell ya what's interesting is all the newfound attention - definitely something i'm not used to. I feel like i'm starting to uncover the real me, the one that's been hibernating. Even yesterday i bought some intense red hair dye because i want to be noticed now! I'll have to take some pics and post the before's and now's for u all as i look through them periodically and just can't believe the transformation. Thank u all so much for all for your lovely comments and support. We can ALL achieve anything if we want it badly enough! Xx