Hello Apples and Pears. I had no idea this lovely thread existed until it popped up on the active thingy a few days ago. Then it disappeared again and I couldnāt find it so googled for it, as search not working. As I type, I am sitting on cushions because Iāve had terrible back pain for two weeks. The doctor thinks itās an inflamed sciatic nerve (I blame childbirth and the fact that my third baby was lying awkwardly on my sciatic nerve for what felt like ages!) Itās a recurring problem but never been as bad or as long lasting as this. Anyway, I have strong painkillers and am trying not to worry. I usually walk a couple of miles a day but of course have not been able to for a couple of weeks. I walked out to the gate today just to feel the fun and fresh air on my face. Anyway, top and bottom of it is, I made myself a promise the other day that if I can get back to normal again, I will lose this dreadful bulge at the front, which Iām told is throwing my spine out. I lost weight last year for a lovely cruise and have since naturally put it all back on again. Iām going to the physio on Thursday so Iām hoping she will sort me out. That was another promise to myself, that I would do stretching exercises and make myself more flexible and less prone to back pain. Anyway, sorry to ramble on, but I just wanted to say that you all sound so lovely and would you mind if I joined in your group, please. It would really help to have support and advice. Iām going to send for that carbs and calories book you mentioned, Nankate.