My food struggles at the moment and how I plan to overcome them.

[@sarahhartlandofficial]

I totally can relate to this Rebecca, I expect that you feel quite anxious and with time you will make a new routine, just be kind to yourself & take it a day at a time, brilliant advice from Jane, such courage to be so open about your feelings/life, sending much love 💗 & strength xx

[@Octotunities88]

Thank you so much for your kind words. It is tough when life gets tricky but you are right a new routine will slip into place and new ways to just make the most of the money and food will kick into place. I am certainly not destitute so for that I am grateful, just have to put a slightly different head on my shoulders to find a new way through the next chapter in my life. Xxxxxxx

[@JaneDay]

Oh my dear friend. I can relate to just about everything you are saying. I look back now from the grand old age of 61 and I can see the times in my life that were financially difficult. Let me assure you that you are making wise decisions as a couple and you will benefit, ot least from having peace of mind around your finances. Getting rid of debt is a brave move but, it is the best move. Making a budget for groceries is good but can I suggest you trial the sum you have chosen and be willing to increase it if you really feel like you are rationing foods or depriving yourselves. Food, even on a budget, needs to be enjoyable or those old feelings find an open door and I think this is what is happening for you at the moment. There is a big difference between wise budgeting and war time rationing. I know fruit and veg can be expensive but the key is to buy what is in season. We are fortunate in that we can source a lot of locally grown veg as in Notts and Lincolnshire, they specialise in growing good vegetables. Fruit is pricey but what I tend to do is choose 2/3 portions of fruit a day. As a vegetarian, you will likely use more fruit but, can I suggest you decide on a satisfactory number of pieces of fruit, say 7 or 8 maybe and stick within that. Banana are cheap currently, melons are beginning to come down. A huge water melon in Sainsburys yesterday was £2.50. That goes quite some way. Please don’t skimp on your nuts! The healthy fat is good on your plan. I empathise with the caffeinated coffee. We drink de car but there is always a jar in the cupboard for visitors. That is going as soon as it is empty, not to be replaced. I reach for it like you do and I don’t need to do that. I find it’s because it’s there that it tempts me. Have you tried Aldi’s de caf. We have it at group and it is good. I use Clipper organic but this is creeping toward £5 for a 00g jar. Bit too much. Keep going Rebecca. Your journey is inspiring and educational. You have taught me a lot and you always leave me looking further into things. Sending big love to you all. Happy Easter Jane x

[@Octotunities88]

I think that is a wise choice to increase the budget if we need it. Because like slimming world, this will be our lifestyle now for a long time coming so we have to be practical about it. I agree with you that bananas are very cheap, pretty much the cheapest fruit. I will be better on knowing what is the right season for fruits so I can get them cheaper. And you are right about sometimes a bit payout for a watermelon can provide a lot of fruit for the money. Lots of love to you. Xxxxxxx

[@holly_yasmin]

So glad I found your channel.. your voice is so calming and you are such a kind, thoughtful person. I hope I can find strength like you. I am in a bit of a rut. Great idea to write everything down. Xxx

[@Octotunities88]

Thanks Holly for your kind words. It is very tough I do agree with you, and life can get very tough as well. But I know that I can make things easier for myself if I take things slowly, don't beat myself up about bad choices and keep looking for the next path out of the trickinesses that might come my way. We have to look after ourselves and be kind to ourselves I think. Xxxxxxx :)

[@clareginn5419]

Great vlog Rebecca, i totally understand where your coming from with the budgeting. I no longer have my car as cannot afford to run it so i walk to work and back everyday, its great to blow away the cobwebs and good body magic. Have a lovely easter xx

[@Octotunities88]

I think you are right. Having no car is a great way to get extra body magic! And walking does give more time to calm your body. All I think it will take is just a bit more organisation and attention to detail. Thank you for your support. Xxxxx