Happy Halfway Day

We’re exactly halfway through the challenge today. It definitely feels like an achievement. And I finally think my body has started to train itself to not become as hungry as before. However, I started to panic this morning when I realised that if I don’t set out a rigid plan, I’ll run out of food. So I’ve composed a Meal Plan to last me until Friday night. It’s pretty pitiful.

What really gets to me is when I hear my housemates clanking pans around and the smell of the feast they’re cooking creeps upstairs. Today was the worst. My housemate Guy was cooking a stuffed crust pizza in the oven. The smell of melted cheese was overwhelming. I WANT CHEESE. He then teased me even more by waving giant muffins in my face. Thanks Guy.

It’s ok though, my lunch was very yummy as well – caramelised apple on toast. It is scary how unbalanced a destitute diet is – so much fried food and carbs, so little fresh fruit and veg, protein and iron. So frying the goodness out of half of one of my few pieces of fruit is probably not the best idea but how can you make half an apple into a (sort of) substantial lunch otherwise? Safe to say, I am not looking forward to almost dry tuna pasta for dinner again…

Today’s Fun Fact: Many Brits believe that nearly half the financial support asylum seekers receive is blown on gold teeth! With drugs, weapons and leather jackets coming up the rear. The reality is that nearly half goes on phone calls, followed by bus fares, food and soap. You know, the general things you need to survive.

Source: Mobiles, Money and Mayhem: The Facts and Fibs About Asylum (Refugee Action)