Her.ie girls Amy and Patricia are nearing the end of their Weight Watchers challenge. With only one more week left to go, the girls have already reached goals, dropped dress sizes and learned a lot about their eating habits.

This week the girls are talking about the importance of staying for class, dealing with frustration and how life can somtimes get in the way of even the best made plans.

Twice a week, Amy and Patricia will be giving an in depth look at what it’s really like to live life while following the Weight Watchers plan. To keep up with the girls’ journey make sure you check out their previous diary entry by clicking here.

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Name: Amy Wall

Meeting: Carmelite Community Centre Whitefriar, 56 Auinger St., Dublin, Dublin 2

Starting Weight: 11 stone 9lbs

Current Weight: 10 stone 11.5lbs

I am glad I went to my Weight Watchers class this week. Yes, even though I’m up another pound, I’m glad. Even though I haven’t exactly been the best Weight Watcher these past two weeks, I’m glad. Even though I’m struggling and getting frustrated with my lifestyle changes at the minute, I’m glad.

Why am I glad? Well, because my class gave me a much-needed kick up the backside in terms of motivation this week. And also because just when I was about to give up on the entire thing, some kind words from my leader Mary helped me to realise that losing weight is about so much more than just what the scales say every week.

Sometimes all you need is someone else to tell you to stick with it and to keep on going, especially when you feel frustrated and I feel more motivated than ever thanks to Mary’s advice and encouragement.

In the meeting, Mary stressed that whether we lost weight or gained some, we should all be proud of ourselves because we showed up to class. She said that this illustrates our commitment to getting healthy and making positive commitments to ourselves and I think that definitely rings true. On tough weeks, even the simple act of showing up, sitting down and listening to some advice from someone who has been through it all before is exactly what you need to help you gain perspective and get back on track.

My goals for this week are simple. I’m heading away for the weekend again on Friday, and while eating may be an issue, I’m going to try to opt for the healthier option. I’m going to cut back on the alcohol a bit. I’m going to drink more water.

I’ll be in Galway, so I’m going to get out and about in the city and walk everywhere. I’m going to wear my Weight Watchers pedometer and clock up a few of those Activity ProPoints.

And most importantly, I’m going to draw a mental line under the past two weeks and start again.

Next week is my last weigh-in and while I’ll be aiming for a minus, given the weekend that’s in it, all I want is to stay the same.

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Name: Patricia Murphy

Meeting: Carmelite Community Centre, Whitefriar, 56. Aungier St. Dublin, Dublin 2

Starting Weight: 14 stone 11lbs

Current weight: 13 stone 13.5 lbs

Hi everyone! We’re coming up to the end of the Weight Watchers challenge and I’m really feeling good about it. This week I was down another pound finally bringing me below 14 stone. I am really delighted and committed to continuing the hard work.

Last week, I became trapped in the elevator of my apartment with a big bag of grocery shopping and although it has since been fixed I have taken to using the stairs a lot more. I have also been doing the stairs from the basement to the top floor and it is a great way to get your heart pumping when the weather is too crap to get outside for your walk. My neighbours might think I’m a little bit mad but I don’t really care.

My housemate is currently training for a 10km and hearing him get up at 6.30 the other morning really made me feel guilty. I’ve been trying to quicken my pace on my walks to earn those Activity ProPoints and I hope it pays off. My main barrier has always been exercise and although I believe I will never be one of those people who loves the gym or can’t wait to get out for a run I do feel better after it.

I’m heading home this weekend and I made sure to pack my runners. I think a change of scene is always nice and it’s important to stay interested.

I haven’t really had any major blows to my routine this week and really have managed to track quite well. I’ve stocked up my fridge with fruits as usual and have really been enjoying my sugar free jelly and my Weight Watchers yoghurts in the evening.

The terrible weather has done nothing but have me dreaming of summer and I hope that I’ll be more confident and happy with myself by the time the sun (hopefully) comes around. 

Do you want to join Amy and Trisha? Find your nearest Weight Watchers classes here. You can also get some great tips and recipes by joining the Weight Watchers Newsletter today!