Every week in our fabulous Castlereagh groups, we crown a very special someone… our Slimmer of the Week – or as we lovingly call it, our greatest loser! 👏💪 And to celebrate their smashing achievement, we present them with our glorious, overflowing Slimmer of the Week Basket! 🎁 Yes, it’s real. Yes, it’s fabulous. And yes… it could be YOU! 😍 🏆 What is the Slimmer of the Week Basket? It’s a great big gift from our group to the person who’s had the biggest weight loss this week – but with a few little rules to keep it fair: ✅ You will have had the greatest loss this week in group ✅ You must’ve had a loss or a maintain the previous week 🚫 If it’s your very first weigh-in after joining last week, you’re not eligible just yet – but hang tight, your time will come! 🌟 🍇 What Goes Into the Basket? That’s where the magic of the group comes in! Members are welcome to pop an item or two into the basket — a little gift from you to the week’s superstar ✨ 💚 We love Free and Speed foods 🍎 Fresh fruit and veg, packets of rice or pasta, herbs, spices, tins, sugar-free drinks – they’re all perfect! 🧃 Even a small treat with a few Syns is more than welcome 🚫 Just skip anything that needs chilled (sorry yoghurt lovers – we don’t want a dairy disaster in the basket by the end of group! 🧀❌) You’ll find the basket at group beside the pay desk, right by where you tap your member card – it’s a sleek black basket labelled ‘Slimmer of the Week’ so you can’t miss it! 🤷 Do I Have to Bring Something? Nope! There’s absolutely no obligation to add anything to the basket – it’s totally voluntary. But if you do want to pop something in, thank you! 🙌 Just remember – this time it’s someone else’s moment to shine… next time, it could be YOURS! 🥳 🥁 And the Winner Is… At the end of Group, just after our raffle, we reveal the Slimmer of the Week! It’s such a special moment and we LOVE making a proper fuss 🎊💖 You’ll be presented with the basket and a special certificate 📜 (yes, we’re extra like that). Sometimes we have a joint SoW, and if that happens – they’ll both get certificates and can split the basket like the fabulous winners they are! So next time you see the Slimmer of the Week basket, give it a wee nod of appreciation… and maybe pop in a cheeky tin of chopped tomatoes 🍅😉 You never know – next week, you could be walking out with the lot! Let’s keep celebrating success and cheering each other on – because every single pound lost is a win, and every week brings a new chance to sparkle 💫

🍾 Coming soon to a store near you… our brand new Syn Free Slimming World White Wine! . . . sorry to break it to you, but this little dream isn’t real – and sadly, it never will be 😅 But wait! Before you click away and declare a lifetime of deprivation, let me reassure you – you can lose weight and still enjoy your favourite tipple. You absolutely can! With a few tweaks, a dash of awareness, and a pinch of control, the scales can still go down (even with a glass in hand 🥂). 🍸 The Truth About Booze and Weight Loss There’s never a moment when someone panics and says, “Oh no, I’ve eaten too many carrots!” or “Help! I can’t stop munching apples!” 😂 But when it comes to alcohol? That’s a different story. We often don’t associate drinks with weight gain because… well, they’re liquid! How bad can they be? Turns out – very. The issue isn’t just the alcohol itself, but: The volume we drink The type of alcohol we choose And the temptations that come with it – late-night nibbles, dodgy food choices, and next-day greasy cures. You may start out with a simple plan for one or two drinks… but suddenly it’s a bottle (or two), the takeaway menu is out, and the next morning you’re elbow-deep in a sausage roll. Sound familiar? 🥂 Wine, Fizz, and Glass Size Reality Checks Let’s talk wine – whether it’s white, red, rosé, Prosecco, Cava, or Champagne, it all counts. Sure, one glass might be around 6 syns … but let’s be honest, when’s the last time we stopped at one glass? That “just a wee bottle of wine” is actually 30 to 40 syns depending on strength. And here’s the kicker: A large glass of wine is 250ml – that’s a third of a bottle. Just 3 glasses = the whole bottle. 😳 And when you’re pouring at home – be honest – are you really measuring that 250ml, or is it more a case of “fill ‘er up and we’ll call it one glass”? 😆 🍻 Beer, Lager, and Cider – The Volume Game One pint of beer, lager, or cider can be 10+ syns . Now imagine four pints – that’s over 40 syns in liquid alone! Add in the usual suspects – pizza, crisps, kebabs – and the damage stacks up quicker than you can say “last orders”. 🍹 Cocktails & Shots – The Silent Syn Bombs Cocktails might look cute in their fancy glasses, but they’re little syn grenades. Most contain multiple spirits, liqueurs, fruit juice, syrups, and even cream – yikes! You could be sipping 15 syns without blinking. And that’s just your starter drink before moving onto wine or beer? Uh-oh… 🍸 Spirits – The Smarter Swap Not all drinks are created equal. A 35ml gin or vodka with diet mixer is a smarter choice at around 3.5/4 syns . If you keep it measured and stick to slimline mixers, you’re on the right track! 🙌 💡 Try a white wine spritzer with diet lemonade – doubles the volume, halves the trouble! 🧠 But Why Is Alcohol So Calorific? Alcohol is packed with empty calories – it offers no nutritional benefit, just sugar and ethanol, both of which are burned before fat. That means your body stops burning fat while it’s clearing the alcohol – a real metabolic queue jumper! And that’s before we even factor in mixers, cream, syrups, and food choices made under the influence 🫣 🤯 What About “Saving My Syns”? We all think we’re clever – “I’ll just save up my syns and go wild at the weekend!” But here’s the truth: Saving syns doesn’t work . Why? Because the second we give ourselves that permission slip, it’s game on – bottle of wine ✅, Indian takeaway ✅, slice of cake ✅. That’s your week’s syns… gone. And it’s only Friday. 🚗 Real Talk: It’s About Choice Yes, you’re an adult and you can do what you want. But here are a few ideas to help you drink smart and still see results: Be the designated driver (your mates will thank you and so will your waistline) Measure your drinks – no guessing! Choose lighter options – swap Cider/wine for Bacardi and Diet Coke or go for slimline mixers Make low-syn snacks for post-drinking munchies Decide before you go out what you’ll drink and how much Wine spritzer = smart spritzer 🍷➕🥤 Avoid rounds! They’re peer pressure with a price tag 😅 But I Love My Wine… Quote from Adrians: "So do many of us! I personally love an Aperol Spritz now and then 🍊 But I also lost 5 stone while still socialising every week. I swapped from cider to Bacardi and Diet Coke, and when my friends were queuing for cheesy chips at the chippy van, I was off to the 24-hour service station for some lean ham and cold chicken. Did I miss out? No. Did I lose weight? YES!" 🤯 The Slippery Slope of “One More” We never plan to drink too much. But one leads to another, and soon we’re saying “Oh, the bar’s closing, better get in a double round!” – sound familiar, Northern Ireland? 🙈 It’s a cultural thing, but also a learned behaviour. And what’s learned can be unlearned. 🦠 Blame It on the Pandemic? Many of us slipped into weeknight drinking during lockdown. No commute, no early alarms, just a glass to unwind. It became habit. But habits can change. You are in control of your choices now. 🧡 And Finally: It’s Not Your Fault If you’ve fallen into this spiral of drink ➡️ food ➡️ hangover ➡️ regret ➡️ repeat – please know, it’s not your fault. Forgive yourself. You’re human. The good news is: you can break the pattern . If nothing changes, nothing changes. But if you start with one small tweak this weekend… things will change 💪 You can absolutely still enjoy alcohol and lose weight – just not without awareness. Not without owning your choices. But with Slimming World, we have the support, the tools, and the freedom to choose! 🍷💃 So next time you’re planning your weekend drinks – think ahead, pour smart, snack smart, and most importantly – be kind to yourself. You’ve got this 💥

Let’s talk Countdowns — and not the telly kind ⏱️😉 We’re talking about Slimming World 6-week and 12-week countdowns — our powerful tool to help you make a real commitment to your weight loss journey. 💪💖 What is a Countdown? Think of a Countdown as your promise to yourself. You’re saying: 👉 “For the next 6 or 12 weeks, I’m showing up — no excuses, no detours!” You commit to attending group every single week and giving it your best shot to lose between 1 and 2lbs per week . That’s up to… 📉 12lbs in 6 weeks 📉 24lbs in 12 weeks Imagine how amazing you’d feel shedding that amount! 😍🎉 Why Buy a Countdown? Some people think it’s just a money-saver — and while YES, it does save you money (a week free with 6 weeks, two free with 12!), the real benefit is about commitment . 💥 Buying a countdown is you saying: ✨ “I’m putting myself first. I’m showing up. I’m doing this.” 💡And the statistics backs it up — members who buy countdowns lose more weight than those who don’t! It’s all about the mindset. What’s Included? Sometimes we throw in a juicy little bonus , like a free Slimming World recipe book ! 📖🍲 These books are packed with gorgeous, slimming-friendly meals to spice up your kitchen life and keep your weight loss fresh and tasty. 😋 But remember — Countdowns are always available , even if there’s no book offer at the time. ⛱️ What About Holidays? Great question! If you know you’ve a holiday coming up, just let us know when you buy the countdown. We’ll build in those weeks up front. BUT… once you commit, you can’t go back and change those dates. So double-check that calendar first! 📅 🤧 Feeling Poorly? If you’re under the weather (boo to colds & flu! 🤒), don’t panic. You’ve paid for that week and we want to help. Just have a wee chat with me before group starts — we can arrange a quick weigh-in or offer guidance to suit your situation. Your commitment still counts! 🛍️ Can I buy a countdown at another group? Unfortunately not, Countdowns are commitment to attending your home group during the countdown period as much as possible. If your visiting another group and your countdown has run out, you will need to pay a weekly fee and then purchase your next commitment countdown when you return to you home group. 🎁 What If I Earn a Club 10 Free Week While on a Countdown? You clever thing! 👏 Your Club 10 Free Week will be saved and waiting for you to use as soon as your countdown is finished. That’s another week of love from us to you 💚 🎁 What If I Earn a Club 10 Free Week While on a Countdown? You clever thing! 👏 Your Club 10 Free Week will be saved and waiting for you to use as soon as your countdown is finished. That’s another week of love from us to you 💚 👷‍♀️ Are Countdowns OK for Shift Workers? Here’s the truth: if your work pattern changes week to week, Countdowns might not be ideal . But… if you can attend any Slimming World group (not just your usual one), then go for it! Your commitment is to weigh in each week — and any group will do the job. Just don’t forget your membership card! 💳 🚗 Can I Attend a Different Group? Of course! If life gets in the way and you can’t make your home group one week, just pop along to another one. Countdowns travel with you — they’re valid at any group , so you don’t lose out. Again… just bring that all-important card with you 📇 So What Are You Waiting For? The Countdown is your accountability buddy , your motivator , and your commitment contract all rolled into one. 🧡 It’s not just about saving a few pennies — it’s about changing your life, one week at a time. 💬 Got questions? Ask me in group! 🎟️ Ready to commit? Let’s make this YOUR time. You’ve got this! 💥 Love, Adrian x #AdriansSlimmingWorld #CountdownToSuccess #OneWeekAtATime

Ingredients 4 Large Eggs Milk (from Healthy Extra Allowance Canned Potatoes (thick slices) 3 x Laughing Cow Extra Light Triangles 1/2 Onion (thinly sliced) 2 Chopped Tomatoes Mushrooms Spring Onions (Finely chopped)

Hey there, fabulous Target members! 🌟 First of all, MASSIVE congratulations on reaching your personal target weight – what an incredible achievement and one that you should be so proud of. 🎉💪 Whether you’re freshly at target or have been there a while, you’re an inspiration to so many, and your presence in group means the world to me and everyone around you. Let’s talk about what being a Target member really means and some friendly reminders around the Slimming World rules and your target journey. It’s not just about staying free – it’s about staying focused, honest, and proud. ❤️ 🎯 Your Personal Target – Set by YOU Your target weight is yours to set. It’s what you feel good and healthy at. You can change it any time, but here’s the important bit: ➡️ Any change must be at least 7lbs above or below your current target. This keeps the focus on meaningful, intentional change – not just a little tweak to dodge the rules! 📏 Your Target Range – A Bit of Wiggle Room You’ve got a lovely little cushion to live your life in – 3lbs either side of your target weight. That means: ✅ You can weigh up to 3lbs below or above your set target ✅ While in range, you remain FREE ✅ No need to book holidays if you’re in range ✅ You’re welcome to group as much or as little as suits you Enjoy the freedom – you’ve earned it! 😬 What If You Pop Outside That Range? We all have those weeks, and that’s okay! If your weight goes outside the 3lb range , you get one free grace week to gently guide yourself back on plan. That means: 📌 Week 1 (following week): No charge – if back into target range. If not I'm afraid you will need to return to the pay station. 📌 Week 2 (if still out of range): You’ll become a full paying member again until you’re back within target range 📌 You’ll also need to book holidays again while you’re out of range This isn’t a punishment – it’s simply helping you get back on track and stay in control. 🛤️ ✅ Do I Need to Weigh Every Week? You don’t have to weigh every week – it’s totally up to you. But here’s my top tip: 👉 In the early days of Target, regular weigh-ins (weekly, fortnightly, monthly) help you learn how to maintain your success. 👉 If you pop out of target , it’s essential to weigh in the following week – otherwise you may incur a back-fee if you’re still out and haven’t shown up. So be kind to yourself – keep that accountability and use the scales as your friend, not your enemy. ⚖️ 🏃‍♀️ Must I Weigh If I Come to Group? Yes – even as a Target member, if you’re physically in group , you’ll need to step on those scales. No sneaky exits! 😅 The scales are part of your journey – they help you maintain, not punish. And you never know who your weigh-in might inspire. ✨ 🙈 Can I ‘Fool the Scales’ Just This Once? Let’s talk honesty… kindly but clearly. 💬 Wearing your jumper, stuffing your pockets, or weighing in boots (during the summer) to stay “in range” might seem clever in the moment… But deep down, we both know that’s just tricking yourself. 🙃 Honesty is key. Be proud, be consistent, and be real. If you’re out of range, it’s okay – own it, pay your out of range fee, and get right back on plan. That’s what real success looks like. 💥 📲 Do I still have access to the Slimming World App? Absolutely, the App is yours to help keep you within your target range, long-term. However in order to keep the app live you will need to pop into group and get weighted a minimum of once every 6 weeks. After 6 weeks of non-attendance, your app will not let you log in. When you return to group again, the app will reactivate your account automatically. 💬 You’re SO Important to Group Target members aren’t just free – you’re vital. Your stories, your tips, your wisdom… they lift others up. That’s why we welcome you with open arms (and a free seat!) each and every week. Your journey helps others believe they can do it too. 💕 ✏️ Let’s Sum It Up: ✅ You are FREE while you’re within 3lbs either side of target ✅ You can change your target by 7lbs or more ✅ You must weigh in if you attend group ✅ You have 1 grace week if you’re out of range ✅ After grace week, you become a paying member again ✅ You must book holidays again while out of target ✅ You must weigh-in at least once every 6 weeks to keep your Slimming World App active ✅ No bending the rules – stay honest with your weigh-in ✅ Your advice and support is invaluable to the group Thank you for being part of this journey – your role in our group is priceless. 💖 Let’s keep those goals in check, stay honest, and continue being the shining example of what success looks like! Here’s to staying at target for life – and loving every second of it! 🥂🎯💕 Love, Adrian x 💚 #TargetAndProud #SlimmingWorldLife #YouDidIt #KeepOnTrack

Between January and June 2025, our incredible Castlereagh Slimming World members have shed a staggering 3,400lbs – that’s 242 stone ! 😲✨ To put that into perspective… that’s the weight of an entire Mini Cooper car ! 🚗💨 Or a fully grown African elephant ! 🐘 (We promise no animals or vehicles were harmed in the making of this success! 😄) That’s not just weight lost – that’s baggage dropped, confidence gained, wardrobes refreshed and lives transformed. 🥳💖 👏 Here’s why this is so worth celebrating: ✅ Thousands of pounds lost ✅ Dozens of members hitting their target weights ✅ Countless smiles, laughs and proud tears in group ✅ Every pound a step closer to better health and happiness Whether you’ve lost half a stone or part of a car – YOU are part of something special 💛. These numbers prove just how powerful our community really is when we support each other and stay focused week after week. 📅 Fancy being part of our next amazing stat? We meet every Tuesday at the Royal British Legion on Montgomery Road: 🕘 9am | 🕔 5pm | 🕡 6.30pm Come and see what all the joy is about – your future self will thank you 💕 Let’s keep going, Castlereagh – who’s ready to lose a giraffe next? 😉🦒💥 #SlimmingWorldSuccess #MiniCooperLost #GoldGroupGoals #CastlereaghSW

⭐️ Amazing Offers this Summer⭐️

🗞️ The New Slimming World Magazine Has Arrived! 🎉 Guess what’s landed in group this week? The brand-new edition of the Slimming World magazine – and it’s a total must-read! 😍 Brimming with real-life success stories 💃, summer-ready recipes 🍓🥗, expert tips 🧠, and oodles of motivation to keep you on track – this issue is bursting with inspiration from cover to cover! Whether you’re just getting started or smashing those milestones, there’s something in here for every slimmer. 💥 Available in group before it hits the shops – and at the bargain price of just £1.95 ! That’s cheaper than the newsagents AND you get first dibs! 🙌 Be quick though – they fly off the shelf faster than Hi-Fi bars on launch week! 😅 Come along this week and grab yours before they’re gone! ✨ See you in group, superstar! ✨

📝 Scribble as you Nibble - The Food Diary 📔