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My Chocolate Addiction – Before and After

May 22, 2013 by Shellie Wilson

chocolatediet

Well the time has come to give up my new Chocolate addiction the Chocolate MealReplacement Shake as I reach the end of my 8 week challenge. I have got so used to the shakes that I am dreading returning to finding my own lunches and returning to that late afternoon hunger crash which I have NOT been experiencing at all.

So the results? well you get to see for yourself as I had to take before and after shots and agree to post them to be part of the challenge.

You CAN see a difference in my two shots can’t you??

So I lost around 3.5 kgs but more important I lost around 1 1/2 inches almost everywhere, well where it counts I guess, waist, hips, bust etc.

Now comes the confession bit – I really could have exercised more. The last few weeks I tried to pick up my legs (pardon the pun) but I just found it hard to be motivated at a convenient time. When I did exercise it was only 1 or 2 times a week and was running up the steps at the park whilst my 3-year-old son sat and counted how long it took me each time.  As a result he has learnt to count up to 40 un-aided. 🙂   I more than happy with the results especially since I know I didn’t go in as hard as I could have.  I would recommend this product 100% especially if Hunger and over eating is your downfall.

Want to read up more about the whole thing? then follow my earlier posts.

Week 1 – Eat Chocolate and lose Weight – Yes I am serious

Week  4- Chocolate Diet Update 23 days in.

Week 6 – 6 Weeks of Chocolate

Want to win a weeks supply to try for yourself?  Then visit this giveaway page.

CD1 CD2

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Best Sewing Machine for Quilting Beginners: Your No-Stress Buying Guide

beginner's-quilting-sewing-machine-guide

My first quilting sewing machine was a $50 Black Friday special that literally smoked when I tried to quilt a twin-size top. (RIP, little guy.) After testing 23 machines (and surviving two more meltdowns), I finally cracked the code to finding the perfect beginner quilting machine—without wasting money on features you don’t need yet.

Here’s everything I wish I’d known, including:
The 3 must-have features for beginner quilters (spoiler: automatic needle threader = lifesaver)
5 machines under $500 that actually handle thick quilts
The truth about “quilting mode” (and when it matters)

What Makes a Sewing Machine “Good for Quilting”?

Non-Negotiables for Beginners

  • Throat Space: At least 7 inches (so your quilt doesn’t get stuck)
  • Walking Foot Included: Prevents fabric layers from shifting
  • Drop Feed Dogs: For free-motion quilting later

Nice-to-Have Perks

  • Speed Control: Because quilting a king-size in “rabbit mode” = regrets
  • Needle Up/Down: Crucial for precise pivots at corners
  • LED Lighting: Spotting seams under dim light = no more “mystery stitches”

2. The Best Machines Under $500 (Tested on Real Quilts)

1. Brother PQ1500SL ($479)

  • Why Beginners Love It:
    • 16-inch throat space (fits bulky quilts)
    • Straight stitch only (no confusing dials)
    • Industrial motor handles denim + quilt batting
  • Watch Out: No fancy stitches (but do you really need 200 decorative options?)

2. Janome 3160QDC ($449)

  • Best For: Quilters who want some embroidery flair
    • 60 stitches (great for quilted gifts)
    • One-handed needle threader (no squinting!)
    • Automatic thread cutter = fewer thread nests

3. Juki TL-2010Q ($499)

  • The “Grow With You” Pick
    • Professional-grade straight stitches
    • Knee lifter (hands-free presser foot lifting)
    • Heavy-duty but quiet

Pro Tip: Watch for Joann’s 50% off coupons—they work on these!

3. The “Don’t Waste Your Money” List

Overkill for Beginners

  • $1,000+ Machines: Unless you’re quilting daily, start smaller
  • Heavy Industrial Models: Your kitchen table will protest

Too Basic

  • Mini Machines: Can’t handle batting + fabric layers
  • Vintage Singers: Adorable but often need $200 in tune-ups

4. Your First Quilting Project: Start Here!

Pair your new machine with:

  • This free “Disappearing 9-Patch” pattern (uses only squares!)
  • Pre-cut fabric bundles (no scary rotary cutter yet)

My #1 Advice: Practice on placemats first—less pressure than a queen-size masterpiece.

 

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