Let's go a-thrifting

<div style="text-align: justify;"> <i></i><br /> <h2 style="color: #2a2a2a; display: inline; font-family: noto_serif_devanagari, Merriweather, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 8px; padding: 4px 0px;"> <i> <span style="font-weight: bolder; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">thrifted</span></i></h2> <i> <span class="phoneticspelling" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 7px; padding: 0px;">/θrɪftid/</span> </i></div> <div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <i>an item, usually pre-loved or gently-used, bought for a cheap or cheaper than usual price at a thrift shop or market.</i></div> <div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Have you ever heard (or most likely read) a blogger or someone else say some item they own was thrifted? And that's it. Like, really? I follow a lot of them on IG and read blogs and when it's time to reveal deets on their outfit, all I get is thrifted. At this point I'm like, what does that even mean? Are you freaking kidding me? Is that all the information I get. Lol...you get my drift.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> The one that annoys my soul the most is in this country, you're sitting there telling me thrifted. That's fine, but can you just tell me where you got this thing and stop hiding behind thrifting? It really pains my heart.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Anyhow, today's post is me showing you guys a "thrifted" item. I was driving home one day and my straying eyes landed on this little purse hanging outside a stall, alongside many others, in Census market, Surulere. This was a Friday night. I mentally noted it in my head and promised myself I'd stop by the next day but life happened and I forgot. Fast forward to the next weekend, I was going home again and saw the same bag...I knew it was meant for me and wasted no time in buying it.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> The sweetest part? It cost me N1,500. And it's such a beautiful color too :)</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LYlpRDSt60E/WGAZvucBqjI/AAAAAAAAEcA/GzWQDp63c24rSSbE-huTD5nLj7lMKJBWgCLcB/s1600/DSC_5876.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LYlpRDSt60E/WGAZvucBqjI/AAAAAAAAEcA/GzWQDp63c24rSSbE-huTD5nLj7lMKJBWgCLcB/s1600/DSC_5876.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rg7rEkUrMbg/WGAZvyFuXBI/AAAAAAAAEcE/pUMOyFbXS_UdQMQ_ckHKtc-dbih5yDi_QCLcB/s1600/DSC_5866.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rg7rEkUrMbg/WGAZvyFuXBI/AAAAAAAAEcE/pUMOyFbXS_UdQMQ_ckHKtc-dbih5yDi_QCLcB/s1600/DSC_5866.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> You can buy vintage or pre-loved items from Tejuosho market, Lagos Island, and like me, some corner shops in your neighborhood.<br /> <br /> <br /> xxx<br /> <br /> Belinda.</div> <br /> <br /></div> </div> </div>

Let's go a-thrifting

thrifted /θrɪftid/   an item, usually pre-loved or gently-used, bought for a cheap or cheaper than usual price at a thrift shop ...

In the Spirit of Christmas

<div style="text-align: justify;"> Hey Hey Hey,</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> In the spirit of christmas, I pulled out my least obvious green and red outfit and came up with a Christmas look for you. Ok really, for me. Because I've kinda been searching for that something to put me in the Christmas mood, but it just wasn't happening. </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Hope you like this outfit.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Merry Christmas to you and yours.</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FL4hKRHEZ3I/WF9NpfycR2I/AAAAAAAAEbE/MJ9y70V_tacbflY8uiG5DUC3hleG4-L2ACLcB/s1600/DSC_5646.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FL4hKRHEZ3I/WF9NpfycR2I/AAAAAAAAEbE/MJ9y70V_tacbflY8uiG5DUC3hleG4-L2ACLcB/s1600/DSC_5646.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f36s5JvCIVs/WF9N0j3R-cI/AAAAAAAAEbQ/rxCNZ6z5e0QgrceBovJ8bywXaOGYtUEoQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5658.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f36s5JvCIVs/WF9N0j3R-cI/AAAAAAAAEbQ/rxCNZ6z5e0QgrceBovJ8bywXaOGYtUEoQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5658.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CD2Lo57dWKo/WF9NxNKjDuI/AAAAAAAAEbM/p_icsPfKawkejeIK0huG03ZHgegxu2ziQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5655.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CD2Lo57dWKo/WF9NxNKjDuI/AAAAAAAAEbM/p_icsPfKawkejeIK0huG03ZHgegxu2ziQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5655.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Blouse: <a href="http://www.debrasgrace.com/" target="_blank">Debra's Grace</a> // Skirt: Oasis // Shoes: Charlotte Russe</i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><br /></i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><br /></i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><br /></i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i>xxx</i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><br /></i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Belinda</i></div>

OOTD, SL

In the Spirit of Christmas

Hey Hey Hey, In the spirit of christmas, I pulled out my least obvious green and red outfit and came up with a Christmas look for you. ...

Pink Lady

<div style="text-align: justify;"> Hey Hey,</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> So...have you realized that more often than not, I begin my blog posts with the word "so"? Like, how random.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Anyways, this outfit holds a special place in my heart because it's a mix of all my favorite things to look for in a perfect outfit. Black, splash of color, circle skirt, structured bag, minimal accessories, very comfy shoes...if you had to describe Belinda with an outfit, this is it! I also especially love that I stuck to just 2 colors here, makes it easy to look at.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eCCxahsV9Lg/WFevhaerL_I/AAAAAAAAEYU/baQE29t2yjgB3mj2-tMehO0xNH0nGOjeACLcB/s1600/DSC_5741.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eCCxahsV9Lg/WFevhaerL_I/AAAAAAAAEYU/baQE29t2yjgB3mj2-tMehO0xNH0nGOjeACLcB/s1600/DSC_5741.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lTrfGt8h5fs/WFewpf20qzI/AAAAAAAAEYc/ofFORtcBgv4-t_O2LWDvTyOhytsE0VIjwCLcB/s1600/DSC_5745.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lTrfGt8h5fs/WFewpf20qzI/AAAAAAAAEYc/ofFORtcBgv4-t_O2LWDvTyOhytsE0VIjwCLcB/s1600/DSC_5745.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QrCOjH8YRBg/WFe0JSV0OkI/AAAAAAAAEYo/c6Wzcb4CVEotbbZWYBBA3S3H4yUltCJ7QCLcB/s1600/DSC_5746.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QrCOjH8YRBg/WFe0JSV0OkI/AAAAAAAAEYo/c6Wzcb4CVEotbbZWYBBA3S3H4yUltCJ7QCLcB/s1600/DSC_5746.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NJSf4ysy2Rw/WFe35pPl0eI/AAAAAAAAEY0/b_tRUmSFvq4oUmnhGO8K3lmnPxn6HLFoACLcB/s1600/DSC_5748.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NJSf4ysy2Rw/WFe35pPl0eI/AAAAAAAAEY0/b_tRUmSFvq4oUmnhGO8K3lmnPxn6HLFoACLcB/s1600/DSC_5748.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_BvXX6bQgds/WFe9fmSP9jI/AAAAAAAAEZE/8Jx-F-cLE7k5ZF2uPDBGpofL964jlUKNQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5759.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_BvXX6bQgds/WFe9fmSP9jI/AAAAAAAAEZE/8Jx-F-cLE7k5ZF2uPDBGpofL964jlUKNQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5759.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wnMq7Xg2u7M/WFe_2qjxsYI/AAAAAAAAEZU/DMDTb3LYf4wfKPQvK8PuB06g4Vrt78gZgCLcB/s1600/DSC_5776.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wnMq7Xg2u7M/WFe_2qjxsYI/AAAAAAAAEZU/DMDTb3LYf4wfKPQvK8PuB06g4Vrt78gZgCLcB/s1600/DSC_5776.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <em>Turtleneck: H&M // Skirt: F21 // Bag: Charles & Keith // Shoes: Primark</em> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">  </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">  </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> xxx</div> <div style="text-align: center;">  </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Belinda</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br />

fblogger, OOTD, SL

Pink Lady

Hey Hey, So...have you realized that more often than not, I begin my blog posts with the word "so"? Like, how random. Any...

Introducing...The Yard Sale

<div style="text-align: justify;"> Hi Guys!</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> If you're interested in buying pre-loved items that are still in great condition or you're just looking for a chill way to spend the weekend, I have news for you.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> The Yard Sale will be holding on Sunday, the 18th of December, 2016 at Lekki Suites 1a, Kayode Otitoju street, off Admiralty Road (the road that Tantalizer's is on), off Admiralty way.</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_7taAqIadsE/WFGH8JsZFpI/AAAAAAAAERQ/18iBnjFqhTwyvy-GzghpAPc8xyvRF9Y-ACLcB/s1600/FLIER.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_7taAqIadsE/WFGH8JsZFpI/AAAAAAAAERQ/18iBnjFqhTwyvy-GzghpAPc8xyvRF9Y-ACLcB/s1600/FLIER.png" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: justify;"> If you're into fashion as much as I think you are and you love bargain shopping, this event is one you need to attend because items will be sold for as little as N1,000!!! I kid you not...I'm talking dresses, tops, skirts, shoes, jewelry, all sorts...and a lot of these items are still brand new.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> If you want to take part in the event as a vendor by selling items that you don't wear/use any more but are in great condition, making a little money at the same time, it isn't too late. You can send an email to <a href="mailto:theyardsalelagos@gmail.com">theyardsalelagos</a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">@gmail.com</a> asap.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> See you there?</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> xxx</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Belinda</div> <br />

Introducing...The Yard Sale

Hi Guys!   If you're interested in buying pre-loved items that are still in great condition or you're just looking for a chill ...

The Silver Surfer & Other Stories

<div style="text-align: justify;"> Hey hey...</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> You're probably feeling well rested from the long weekend/holiday, but I could do with another one right now. Spent it running from one wedding to church to other events, I just need a day off to sleep. How did yours go? Do any fun stuff?</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> In other news, how're you bringing your year to a close? Writing new year resolutions and such? Want me to share mine with you? Maybe in another post. </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> If you'd asked me to describe the silver surfer to you, this is what I'd envision in my mind. I never knew I had a thing for silver, but it's so shiny and appealing, what's not to love? </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Can we discuss my love for pleats though? Ok maybe in another 'nother post. LOL (my sense of humor is wack, forgive).</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Anyhow, today's outfit was hurriedly thrown together. After trying it on, I almost took it off on account of my baby (food) bump but we thank God for this denim jacket shrug-style inspiration a la Kim K. It helped hide some of my imperfections.</div> <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MonmvPMfCAA/WE_1Dks1_PI/AAAAAAAAEQY/IWjFexDdRtk65wYMxCOl3T0KTo2sEFwYQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5679.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MonmvPMfCAA/WE_1Dks1_PI/AAAAAAAAEQY/IWjFexDdRtk65wYMxCOl3T0KTo2sEFwYQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5679.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L8y-UMbYfoM/WE_13i8XiVI/AAAAAAAAEQc/GOw4kaNqzrgEFa9KpCh4MdLoXF_ysgGAQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5686.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L8y-UMbYfoM/WE_13i8XiVI/AAAAAAAAEQc/GOw4kaNqzrgEFa9KpCh4MdLoXF_ysgGAQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5686.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PgyH5EvDIrE/WE_2LhHnbbI/AAAAAAAAEQk/mRRAbObPveAsVfaJe_OObWja9Wh-reyYQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5687.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PgyH5EvDIrE/WE_2LhHnbbI/AAAAAAAAEQk/mRRAbObPveAsVfaJe_OObWja9Wh-reyYQCLcB/s1600/DSC_5687.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07wct3Jfee0/WE_4NFA96bI/AAAAAAAAEQ0/lso5nQGXtt0coQJMU2MiXsSa0d37nk_xgCLcB/s1600/DSC_5694.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07wct3Jfee0/WE_4NFA96bI/AAAAAAAAEQ0/lso5nQGXtt0coQJMU2MiXsSa0d37nk_xgCLcB/s1600/DSC_5694.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gKtWv8talQs/WE_5ffi8hFI/AAAAAAAAERA/VSXLK5iXT7E_zEKNQqnmrmiEpc8aTKF5gCLcB/s1600/DSC_5691.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gKtWv8talQs/WE_5ffi8hFI/AAAAAAAAERA/VSXLK5iXT7E_zEKNQqnmrmiEpc8aTKF5gCLcB/s1600/DSC_5691.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-txYKWAC3AS0/WE_3tJzvSMI/AAAAAAAAEQw/2Oer8S2fNJoh9ejSmA3TZzgbTMapKUBzgCLcB/s1600/DSC_5693.NEF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-txYKWAC3AS0/WE_3tJzvSMI/AAAAAAAAEQw/2Oer8S2fNJoh9ejSmA3TZzgbTMapKUBzgCLcB/s1600/DSC_5693.NEF.jpg" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Denim Jacket: Dorothy Perkins // Funnel neck top & Silver Pleated Skirt: Primark // Block heel shoes: ASOS</i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><br /></i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><br /></i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><br /></i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><br /></i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><br /></i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i>xxx</i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i><br /></i></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Belinda</i></div>

OOTD

The Silver Surfer & Other Stories

Hey hey... You're probably feeling well rested from the long weekend/holiday, but I could do with another one right now. Spent it r...

MY WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY

<div style="text-align: justify;"> Hmmm.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> I have always struggled with my weight and weight loss in general, so this isn't me talking to you like an expert or nothing, it's me sharing with you what I've done so far, at the same time trying to keep myself accountable.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> If you ask some people, they'll say I'm not fat. Others look at me and ask how I added so much weight...and I don't blame them. I used to weigh about 75kg back in school and I never particularly had to watch my weight or pay attention to what I ate. I just ate whatever I wanted to whenever I wanted and I was fine. But I guess getting older considerably slowed down my metabolism, plus having a steady source of income. Now I get to choose how I spend my money (translation: I spend pretty much 70% of my money on food).</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> If you ask other people, they'll tell you I'm always on a diet. Which is true, but I start something today and stop tomorrow...I never really follow through. All of that changed this year. I was tired of the losing and adding weight cycle, I just wanted to lose and maintain a stable weight.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> In March 2016, I was at my highest weight of 91kg...I remember this because I track my weight with the MyFitnessPal App...and Lord knows I was depressed. I didn't look good in sleeveless tops/dresses...I felt like I was rolling around when I walked and I was so uncomfortable in my own skin. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m0ZIPm32c6s/WEq9vJawUUI/AAAAAAAAEPQ/uV0Z_XiCfpMQsTLLVnkp-AbXF948vhxggCLcB/s1600/fit.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m0ZIPm32c6s/WEq9vJawUUI/AAAAAAAAEPQ/uV0Z_XiCfpMQsTLLVnkp-AbXF948vhxggCLcB/s1600/fit.PNG" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><em>May 2016</em></strong></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">  </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"> Fast forward to the present...I currently weigh 81.6kg; in total, I've lost 9.4kg (20.7lbs) since March 2016 and I want to share with you a couple of things I did to get here. I still have a long way to go (I can't tell y'all 'cause you'll think I'm crazy) so if you're interested in this journey, please join me.</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">  <em><strong> </strong></em></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <em><strong>May/June/July 2016</strong></em></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RFtHyIC9vBs/WEq94cYxznI/AAAAAAAAEPY/UNn25aHOx_0sGHVbmI8kE89lkEIYtwqhQCEw/s1600/IMG_4420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RFtHyIC9vBs/WEq94cYxznI/AAAAAAAAEPY/UNn25aHOx_0sGHVbmI8kE89lkEIYtwqhQCEw/s1600/IMG_4420.JPG" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <strong><em></em></strong> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">  </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hdTwCjLu8F0/WErC6mQg00I/AAAAAAAAEPo/QvVbRdUkjpIYMVgHE60vt63nTaT5xD7mQCLcB/s1600/now%2Bfit.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hdTwCjLu8F0/WErC6mQg00I/AAAAAAAAEPo/QvVbRdUkjpIYMVgHE60vt63nTaT5xD7mQCLcB/s1600/now%2Bfit.PNG" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">  <strong><em>November 2016</em></strong> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>1. <u>Exercise</u></strong>: Not just for weight loss, but to look toned, strengthen your heart and build muscle. I won't lie, I started doing it for the weight loss alone, but it has become a part of me and I love the adrenaline rush I get from spending time in the gym in the mornings. Also, exercise helps firm up the skin especially for those who lose a whole lot of weight...nobody wants saggy loose skin; that ain't sexy. I joined a gym close to my office and resume there at least 3 to 4 times a week at 5:30am and workout until about 7/7:15am, shower, get dressed and head to work. A lot of people tend to go to the gym in the evening but I've found I'm very tired by then and just want my bed, so I'm a member of the AM crew. You don't need to join a gym, especially if it isn't budget-friendly or you don't have a job. You can run around your neighborhood and do cardio or HIIT in your room. Google up and you'll be surprised at how much you can get done without any equipment. </div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yeI3t9Zw4rw/WEq9fDNBBII/AAAAAAAAEPI/GAOCYvLCfgM1B2gotVKC5akcscm9zlSbQCLcB/s1600/polar%2Bft4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yeI3t9Zw4rw/WEq9fDNBBII/AAAAAAAAEPI/GAOCYvLCfgM1B2gotVKC5akcscm9zlSbQCLcB/s1600/polar%2Bft4.JPG" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>2.<u> Watch what you eat</u></strong>: I purposely didn't use the D word because a healthy lifestyle should be a part of you and not a 1 week or 2 week cycle but darlings I like to try a lot of things. I've done the Military diet, Egg fast, GM diet, low carb high protein...name it, I'm willing to try it. Not because I'm looking for quick fixes, I'm just really very inquisitive and want to see if things people talk so much about actually work. Also because sometimes, I hit a rut and stop losing weight...these diets help to jumpstart the process again. Regardless of where I'm at, I always eat as clean as possible...more veggies and protein and less carbs.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ghlX8MoGu04/WErDcjLc93I/AAAAAAAAEPs/YO6oow2eq-gLR_P8_7vqrKiVI-_vW_LuwCLcB/s1600/couscous.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ghlX8MoGu04/WErDcjLc93I/AAAAAAAAEPs/YO6oow2eq-gLR_P8_7vqrKiVI-_vW_LuwCLcB/s1600/couscous.JPG" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cSlOsfXL5t0/WErDdHmcGLI/AAAAAAAAEPw/UTnnDEHlUuoke4LBEjy4Tdn12Lgw1i0cQCLcB/s1600/food%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cSlOsfXL5t0/WErDdHmcGLI/AAAAAAAAEPw/UTnnDEHlUuoke4LBEjy4Tdn12Lgw1i0cQCLcB/s1600/food%2B1.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HYQrXfKtMqc/WErDmZMAg1I/AAAAAAAAEP0/NRmM9o2dBR8ala3fdIzqbqTEDPANBQVyQCLcB/s1600/food%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HYQrXfKtMqc/WErDmZMAg1I/AAAAAAAAEP0/NRmM9o2dBR8ala3fdIzqbqTEDPANBQVyQCLcB/s1600/food%2B2.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Sa7CVO5pHg/WErDnqQQGZI/AAAAAAAAEP4/cGxxTpCWufsM23pGsM2tvo4aWtQ5_mZ9wCLcB/s1600/food%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Sa7CVO5pHg/WErDnqQQGZI/AAAAAAAAEP4/cGxxTpCWufsM23pGsM2tvo4aWtQ5_mZ9wCLcB/s1600/food%2B3.jpg" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>3. <u>Drink a lot of water</u></strong>: Water helps boost weight loss, gives you great skin, flushes out toxins from the body, reduces headaches/dizziness/fatigue...so many benefits, so drink up.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>4. <u>Count Calories</u></strong>: Use a Calorie Calculator to determine how many calories you should consume in a day in order to meet your weight goal. This is determined by a lot of factors...your current weight, height, lifestyle...so don't just assume you know. There are a lot of these calculators on the internet. Once you're sure of your calorie intake, download a calorie counter on your phone and track everything you eat/drink so help ensure you stay within your calorie goals for the day. I use My Fitness Pal and it's literally my most used app; it has helped me a lot and shown me how much calories are in seemingly small foods and even spices that I thought were "safe".</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>5. <u>Meal Prep</u></strong>: Planning my meals help soooo much; I'm more likely to eat well when I pack my meals than when I just freestyle. When I don't, Í will easily eat jollof rice for lunch or toast for breakfast but if I do, I'm less likely to ditch my already packed meal and waste money in the process. Make a food time-table where you list out your meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) for the 7 days in the week. List out all the ingredients required to prepare those meals and then go shopping for those you don't already have.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>6. <u>Track Progress</u></strong>: When you decide to begin this weight loss journey, take a picture of your body in fitted clothes. As you progress, keep taking pictures. Sometimes, comparing these pictures will be the only thing that keeps you going on days you feel like giving up.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>7. <u>Be accountable</u></strong>: Speaking about giving up, trust me, you'll want to do that a looooot of times. Find ways to be accountable that work for you; drag a friend along on this journey (Lord knows I did this) or join fitness groups.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>8. <u>Allow yourself a cheat day:</u> </strong>I believe in cheat days. I've tried doing things other people do and they either didn't work for me or were unsustainable. So, to achieve a balance that works for me, I allow myself one day of the week, usually Saturdays, when I literally eat one cheat meal. It might be a burger, cheese fries, Ice-cream, Pizza...whatever I've been craving all week basically. The great part is, I don't even feel the tiniest bit bad when I'm eating it, it's like my reward for good behavior all week. Just don't turn your cheat meal into a cheat week. </div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>9.</strong> <u><strong>Believe in yourself:</strong></u> This should probably have been the first point. All you need to begin this journey is a little faith in yourself. Nothing is impossible, this definitely applies to weight loss. You can do it, other people have and they're not better or smarter than you are. It might be a bit hard, but it's such a fun journey, plus the end result will make it sooooo worth it.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Hope these tips helped; hope I've found an extra partner on this journey.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> If you have any questions, tips, get at me in the comments box.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> xxx</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Belinda.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;">  </div>

MY WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY

Hmmm. I have always struggled with my weight and weight loss in general, so this isn't me talking to you like an expert or nothing,...