Weightloss with an Iron Deficiency

Earlier this year I decided to get a physical since it has been years since I have had one. So after everything is done and I get blood work done I get a call from my doctor to come back in. She starts asking me questions about am I always tired and other things. Now I start to get nervous because I'm like Oh God something is wrong with me. I tell her being a single mom of 3, working full time, and running two businesses would have anyone tired. I was truly tired though. Extremely exhausted almost everyday, but when your as busy as me you don't think twice about it.

Turns out I am severely anemic to the point she was very concerned and even asked me about my menstrual cycle which coincidently was horribly heavy beyond words can describe (sorry for the TMI). So she puts me on iron pills which I have to take three times a day and sends me to my OBGYN to get checked out. My doc there put me on birth control to help out. But, here's the thing....I am a horrible pill taker. The only time I have taken pills consistently is when I was pregnant. Definitely not good and this time was no different. I have completely stopped taking my birth control because I kept missing days and I take my iron pills sporadically. I may do good for a whole week and then I may not take them for a whole month.

The Battle of the Binge

When I tell y'all I am so happy the holidays are over.... I am so done with it! In the last post I did about hitting the reset button, I said it wouldn't be difficult to get back on track, but I was wrong. It actually got worse over the weekend. I wasn't that I didn't prep the right foods, it was that my body was still craving sugar and salt. So I gave in and started to eat more foods I shouldn't have.

Saturday wasn't so bad and the beginning of Sunday started out great. For this whole Christmas week I barely drank water and never had any vegetables. That was my first mistake! Not only do I hold on to water weight like it's going out of style but not having ANY vegetables messed up my digestive system. Its crazy how your body will alert you when you are eating the wrong things but after a while it will just adapt be it in a healthy or unhealthy way.

The Holiday Reset

Soooooo I am sad......Not really! I started out strong with maintaining my indulgences through December, but I caved. Not the whole month, just this past week. It started with my companies second holiday feast which was way better than the first. We had so much food it lasted for days and we eventually shared it with the other company here. That day was fine, but I found that the busier I became the worst I ate.

It was hard to food prep, but I did a little. It was very hard to eat the food I prepped though because I was always on the go. I started to eat out, which in the beginning I was making good choices but the closer it got to Christmas the good choices became not so good choices. While this was not planned and I have been working out when I had the time, I decided to enjoy this holiday, sweet and all.

First Week Down...My First Impression of P90

I have completed my first week of the Beachbody's new P90 workout and I am not completely sold on it yet. I chose the Sweat Schedule which will have you doing more cardio than strength workouts since I need a good amount of cardio to help with my weight loss. So for one day you will do Sweat A and Ab Ripper and the next day you will do Sculpt A. These days will be rotated until Saturday which you will do the Saturday Special workout and Sunday is a rest day.

The first day I started I did get my sweat on and my abs did feel it but I was surprised the Sweat A session isn't a full 30 minutes and the Ab Ripper isn't even at least 10 minutes. Now day two for Sculpt A I was feeling muscles I have never worked before and I was definitely sore the next day, but this workout isn't a full 30 minutes either. the Saturday Special is the most intense workout of the week, but once again it isn't a full 30 minute workout.

My Beachbody Shakeology Review

When I ordered P90, they gave a few things I could add to my order for free. One of those things was a 7 day supply of Shakeology. I've heard a lot of great things about Shakeology from people who drink it. Some people even live by it and the benefits from it. According to Beachbody, Shakeology will help you lose weight, gain energy, reduce cravings, and help with digestion. It also claims that the nutrients you get out of one serving is more than you would be able to eat in one sitting. So I said sure why not give it a try.

On the directions it says to add 2 scoops into 8-10 ounces of water and add ice for you desired consistency. A card came with it with recipes to try different smoothies combinations. It also suggested to replace either breakfast or lunch everyday with a smoothie.

Ok so here is what I did with it:

I never tried any of the recipes mainly because I wanted to try it by itself. I wanted to compare it to other protein smoothies I have made before. I never replaced my breakfasts or lunches with it. Dinner time is the busiest time for me so making a shake instead of a meal worked out better for me. I also never added ice for two reasons, the first is I don't use ice trays or have an ice maker lol. My fridge keeps my water cold enough for me. And second I wanted to compare it to other drinks I've had like I said previously.

Wednesday Workout Mix Playlist

Enjoy!

My First Fitness Challenge P90

I will be starting my first fitness challenge. I ordered the new P90 (released this past September) and it is finally here. P90 is supposed to be a less intense version of the P90x series and I thought I would be a great option since I have an issue with my right knee. I figured it can ease me into higher intense challenges. I also wanted a switch up in my workout routine. I usually do Zumba, but will do Tae Bo from time to time. I want to incorporate more strength related exercises also. Toady I will starting and I will keep you posted along the way. Below are my starting numbers and pics. I will update my numbers at the 30, 60, and 90 day mark as well.....

My Stomach Betrayed Me

The holiday season is hated by many due to the never ending foods that are shuffled from house to house and we can not forget all the people bringing things into work. I work in an office that houses two companies and each year they both have a holiday feast. Everyone cooks a dish and we enjoy it for the whole day. I'm not talking about no finger food tray, I'm talking about ribs, fried turkey, mac-n-cheese, rice dishes and so much more. This does not even include all of the desserts, soda, and wine that is also in attendance.

This year was the first time have been able to control my food intake around the holidays. Thanksgiving was a breeze and I'm sure Christmas will be a cake walk too. To stay on track I do not and I mean DO NOT EAT OFF TRACK. I don't have a cheat anything simply because I know I am going to indulge on a later date and I don't want to keep eating junk which will make me fall off the wagon. Even though this is the most I have ever been disciplined with my eating, I did not think what happened at the first company's holiday feast would happen.

You Are The Most Important Person In Your Life

I received an email yesterday and at the bottom of it that is exactly what it said. "You are the most important person in your life." I read it again and again.....and again. When I think about 2014, I am not pleased with a lot of things. I repeat all of the should've, could've, would've and you know what? I don't get upset like I used to. There are a ton of things I could have changed or avoided this year but then would I be this strong right now?

I firmly believe in what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. I am strong because I remember where I came from and what I went through. As 2015 is approaching quickly (Xmas is 14 days away...yay), I am excited to start a new and fresh year, but I am also scared of the unknowns. We never know what will happen in our lives until it happens. Should we worry about though?????

Wednesday Workout Mix Playlist

It's that time again! I hope you enjoy this week's workout mix and as a reminder some songs does have explicit lyrics.

Dealing with Temptation While My Children Indulge

Quick Update: My 2 week bootcamp to get right for my job's Christmas party was excellent. I was able to buckle down on my food and incorporate weight training into my workout routine. I am actually seeing faster results now that I have added weights. My starting weight was 292 (see post here) and on Friday I weighed in at 286, but I am more focused on seeing the changes in my body and boy are they happening! The picture on the left is from Friday.

Now back to the topic! I have three little nuggets that I have to chase around everyday and while I am incorporating this healthy lifestyle into the whole house, I don't want to deprive my daughters from things kids should have. I think all children should be able to have snacks, chips, and other goodies in moderation, but I definitely cannot have them in moderation.

Wednesday Workout Mix Playlist

I am designating Wednesday to share with you guys the music I like to listen to while working out. I think my playlists are a little weird lol. You know how they say the music you listen to while effect the intensity of workout? Well that's not me! I like some of everything. Majority of my playlist will consist of what I call twerk music lol. That's where there's a nice beat with a lot of bass. I also love to include some sexy slower paced songs because they have me wanting to be sexy and what is more motivation than wanting to look and feel sexy. Lastly I like a lot of rap music. I always have to some thought provoking lyrics to get my mind focused.

Why I am Giving Up Love to Be Healthy

I have shared many times my up and down relationship with my daughter's father and how our last break up was just horrible. This was almost eight years of stress and hurt that I couldn't take anymore. After the break up earlier this year, it took me a long time to get myself together. You spend so many years with someone who at some point did make you happy to having to let that person go because the relationship has become toxic. It was very hard to accept that I was better off without him even though I still loved him.

After finally collecting myself and picking up the pieces I was more than ready to get out there and begin dating again and I really didn't have an issue meeting men. My issue was more so of the men I had met. Now after all these years of drama I have a pretty clear cut picture of what I want in my future mate and what I will and will not put up with. Needless to say I found I had to cut more men off than I thought I would do to many reasons that I did not want to deal with.

My Personal 2 Week Bootcamp

The holidays are here and I am a little nervous but more determined than ever to stay on track. Everywhere I turn there is someone cooking or baking a holiday treat or meal and lets not even talk about Thanksgiving.

This year I have another plan though. See my company's Christmas party is on Dec. 5 and after looking through my closet of what I will be wearing I decided to finally wear this leather bodycon dress I purchased from my own boutique (shop our holiday sale here). This is a faux leather, hug all your curves type of dress. While I will definitely will be wearing shape wear under it and I like it on me I want to put my best look forward and kill the room with this dress.

Why I Have to Be Strict With Eating

I always hear about people having cheat meals or even days. I learned the hard way that I am not one those people that can partake in a cheat anything. I have been battling binge eating since I can remember and it is something that I know can not be taken lightly. I have to focus and be very strict with what I can eat because if I have something (mainly sugar related items) it is all over for me. And I am not talking about sweets and candy. Any type of sauce (other than tomato based), greasy foods, and grain products like bread will do me in.

Being strict actually leaves me with limited options of what I can eat, which is why eating clean has always worked out best for me to maintain eating right and losing weight. I recently, at the beginning of October, gave myself a cheat meal. That eventually lead to a cheat day and then to a cheat month. I fell completely off and I am just now getting back on track. Sugar addiction is alive and well when it comes to me and once I get a taste it takes a while to get it under control.

There are a few things I have to do down to the T in order to keep myself on tract:

What Putting in That Work Can Do

It has been a while since I have checked in with you guys about my healthy journey. So I am giving you all the deets today in my progress.

So in August my sister who owns a fitness company (Trophy Wife Fitness... check her out) told me about a weight loss group she and her friends are doing. It is basically an accountability group. Every month we state our goals and at the end of the month we state our progress at that point. In between we give each other tips and what not to help each other along our journeys. So the starting date was August 10 and for some reason this was just the push I needed.

Say Yes to Mesh!!!!!

Mesh is VERY big this fall season. You will find it on everything from dresses to tops and even on pants. And whats not to love about it? It adds a bit of sass and edge to any look so mesh gets a big thumbs up from Size Fabulous. Check out these different looks for a little inspirations when putting your mesh looks together.

Maxi Skirt in The Fall?????....OH YEA

In Syracuse, fall is legit borderline winter lol. The heat must come on in the house and you have to have a coat near by. For the most part you have to dress winter ready but on the slight occasion we might hit 60 degrees I am ready with my maxi skirt lol.

Another Day, Another Childhood Obesity Study that Doesn't Make Sense!!!

Ok............

I can't even begin where I want to begin.........

I am so over it.....

On Yahoo today, I came across an article titled "Can Antibiotics Early in Life Put Your Child at Risk for Obesity?" First thing that comes to my mind is why people are still trying to find things to blame obesity on. This is my problem....

While I do feel there is a problem with obesity, I also feel we (as in the individual/parent) is responsible for it in most cases. Those who suffer from medical conditions that lead to weight gain do no fall in that category due to it being out of their control. But for those, myself included, our weight issues are a result of our own choices.

8 Must Have Fall Boots Under $75

My Favorite Pieces From Girl with Curves New Collection

I have followed the Girl with Curves Blog for many years now and was overly excited when she announced she would be creating a fashion line. After first seeing her few pieces here and there (that sold out before you could even read through a whole blog post lol) I new whatever she created would be beautiful and needed for our community. Several update emails later She is announcing it's release. Here are a few (although I love them all) that I truly adore. Shop these looks!

The Top 6 Misconceptions of Plus Size Women

Have you ever had a conversation with someone and shared things you have done or wore and they seemed surprised. Although we live normal lives, there are some people that believe our lives are anything but like theirs. I have complied the top 6 misconceptions of plus size women. Do you relate????

#1 Plus size women are lazy....

Most plus size women are not lazy. We enjoy getting out of the house and doing activities. Just because we are overweight does not mean we sit on the couch all day.

Bring in Fall with Style

Top 5 Mistakes Plus Size Women Make in Fashion

Being a proclaimed fashionista is awesome as style sees no size and every one's type of style varies by the individual. When looking for that killer look that will turn heads or get tons of like on social media sometimes these fabulous curvy ladies can go a little too far to the left. Find out the top 5 mistakes women make and how to improve on it.

1. Not buying the right size
   
This is a very common mistake women make. It is tough to find trendy clothing in larger sizes specially women over a size 2x or 22. Always make sure to check for a few things: make sure your buttons are not pulling the material. Your fabric should lad flat and smooth. If the waist of your pants is digging into you stomach, they are to small. If your fabric stretches to the point it becomes see through, than it is too small.

2. Do not always dress age appropriate

Majority of trendy plus size fashions in stores are junior plus sizes. We must remember that even thought that top and leggings are cute, you may be a little to old to wear it. It is nice to find and wear cool prints, but just make sure they are appropriate for the occasion.

3. Believe a girdle(spanx) will fix everything

Girdles are made to smooth your rolls and pull you in a little, however, they are not miracle workers. Having a foundation piece is great for wearing bodycon dresses and to just smooth you out and enhance your curves.

4. Not mix and matching prints and colors properly

There is a right and wrong way to mix and match prints and colors. Sometimes women can do too much and end up looking like a Christmas tree. Understand that less is more and although mixing and matching can be show stopping when done properly, there is fine line when you can go to far.

5. Being too insecure to wear fabulous fashions

Body image issues keeps many women from dressing to their highest potential. They follow too many fashion rules which hinders the possibility of truly looking your best. Not all fashion rules are meant to be followed. Your style should tell what type of person you are without you having to speak.

The only fashion rules you should follow are ones that will bring out your inner fabulousness. Remember not everything is meant for everyone so be aware of how you look in certain items to make sure you look your best!

#Boycottingtarget Has Taken Off, but Will it Bring Change

Target has done many fabulous collaborations with designers and they usually sell out quickly. There is just one problem.... They never feature sizes above 16. The topic of designers not wanting to include lager size has been disputed for years now and yet we are still finding ourselves fighting for equal rights in the fashion world. I have a love hate relationship with Targets plus size section.

One minute they might have some very cute items and then the next month they have a terrible selection. Not to mention our section is pushed back in a corner near the dressing room while their straight sizes take up almost the whole side of the women's clothing area. Like many other retailers, the straight sizes has a great variety of cute and fashionable clothing. On the other hand you have the very and I do mean very basic selections of the plus size section. Jeans, a few tops, and your basic tees. All I can do is shake my head while I right this. I can say every once in a while they will have some cute items, but that is very few and far between.

I am not alone in my feelings toward Target. Last week plus size blogger Chastity of Garner Style wrote an open letter to Target about her feelings toward their plus size section and their designer collaborations. She has stated what many of are thinking and she gave very valid points. She announce she would no longer be a customer of Target. Not only will she not shop their plus section, she cut them off all together. Her blog post had lead many other plus size beauties to follow in suit and boycott Target as well.

Hearing about the Target boycott, Target has released a statement via Refinery29 saying,

“We never want our guests to feel disappointed, and if we’ve let them down, we apologize. We appreciate the opportunity to hear directly from our guests. We’ll take this feedback into consideration as we move forward. In the meantime, we offer a variety of plus options. We’ll also be introducing a new plus line in the near future that features a focus on the latest styles, all at great prices.”

His statement sounds like crap to me. It's basically saying we are sorry you feel this way but you can continue to shop the great plus size section we don't have. And when are these new plus size selections coming. They have been promising us that for the longest and even cleared out the plus size section not that long ago only refill it with the same selections they had before. I am hoping they release another statement or at least make changes in their plus size department.

I do feel that the more we stand up and express what we want to see will eventually bring change. It might not start tomorrow but as long as our voices are heard we will see change.

What are your thoughts??

Nene Leakes Slays the Cover of Pose Magazine

Nene has been on a roll lately and she doesn't seem to be slowing down. With the success of her clothing line through HSN, Nene has yet to take a break of the fast life and I love it. Nene has always been my favorite on The Real Housewives of Atlanta for being the take no crap tell it like it is sista. Although this is not her first magazine cover, it is definitely one of my favorites of her. She is making sure she stays "Very Rich Bitch" as she would say lol. I love it Nene!!!!!!!! You can check her out in Pose Magazine this September.

Recycling Relationships....Should You Give an Old Boo Another Chance

We all have that one boo that we give multiple chances before we cut him off for good. That's even if we end up cutting him off for good. I have had an off and on again relationship but not really a relationship with this guy for almost ten years. In all honesty I don't even know why it lasted that long.

I pretty much used him as a void to fill space and time while I was in between more serious relationships. I met him when he starting working at my job in about 2005 and I was 19. We were instantly friends but nothing more since he was married at the time. Fast forward to 2008 after I returned back to my home town from living in another state and the birth of my daughter. Me and my daughter's dad was broken up and one night at the club guess who I run into....My old buddy. We instantly hit if off like I never left and since he was no longer married I had no problem with our friendship moving to the next level.

That next level was us just having a good time with each other, nothing too serious, but he definitely had my attention. That was until I was wooed by my daughter's dad and dropped my little boo like a bad habit LOL. Now lets fast forward another year or so to the birth of my twins and eventually ended the relationship with my kids father AGAIN...(smh I know). Who did I run back too...my old boo. He was my rebound guy, my I'm bored guy, my I need love and affection guy, my I just want a serious and good relationship guy. I thought because we never had issues that he could possibly be the man I need to be with. So over the course of I don't know how long he was my boo and I wasn't until I had a serious conversation with him that I learned he may not be the one for me.

As I noticed my feelings were getting stronger for him, I also noticed how certain things started to bother me. I was over the waiting for text and calls back. I was annoying with the priority level I was on. I was highly upset at the things we did for "quality time spent together". And I started to feel nothing but more than a booty call of sorts. It was all fun and games until feelings get involved so I sat him down for a talk. Turns how he didn't want what I did. but he didn't want to lose me (guys kill me with that). So I had a decision to make and after talking to my sister about it and my kids dad wooing me again...smh, I dropped my tender-roni like a hot potato.

So years go by and after my horrible breakup with my kids father (definitely for good this time lol) I randomly and unexpectantly get poked on Facebook and guess who it is...my boo thang lol. I was flooded back with fun memories and cue our cute little convo of how its been so long and how he missed me. So when he asked about my relationship  and I give him the it just didn't work out line, he hits me back with the I should have just stayed with him. But wasn't you the one that didn't want a relationship????? Here we go again, but this time was it was different and that was because I was different. The last break up with my kids dad gave me a different view on what I want out of my next relationship and it definitely didn't include someone who is giving mixed vibes on what they wanted. We are to old for that and sure enough he started his flakiness straight out the gate. I knew it was a wrap and I'm happy I didn't really pursue anything with him this time around.

Things will never change unless we demand change and even then is it even worth it. Some relationships need to stay buried and be gone forever. Remember why it didn't work in the first place and evaluate if it's worth being a part of your life again. Can me and dude be friends....absolutely, but as far as a relationship....nah I'm good. It was fun while it lasted.

NeNe Leakes Clothing Line Sells Out on HSN!!!

 

I have been sharing the progress of actress and reality star Nene Leakes new clothing line for HSN which includes sizes up to 24. She debuted her line on HSN on 7/28 and it sold out!!! Can we get a bloop bloop for NeNe. I love me some Nene and I am happy her line is not only successful but her clothes are very on trend, cute, and stylish. You can view her entire collection here. You can also check out videos of Nene on HSN on their YouTube channel here. And being that items are selling quickly you don't want to take your time because you may miss out! Take a look at a few of my favorites below!!!!!!!

 

 

Check out one of her videos....

Are You Sabotaging Your Relationships?????

Being single I am excited to go on a new journey of dating and hopefully finding "The One". This got me thinking about a time when I was so worried if a guy would like me even though I'm fat. What would I have to change or do to make him like me? Will I have to do something I don't want to do to keep him? and so on. Through my years of finding myself I can say I have grown in regards to what I will accept in a mate and what I will do to please him without losing myself in the process.

I think it gets easier to date when you build confidence. Being confident with who you are will lead to how you will act in the dating world. Low self-esteem and confidence usually will land you in a unhappy relationship or alone. If you do things like avoiding social settings, introducing yourself to new people, dressing for the occasion or even turning men away that are interested, these are signs you need to work on your confidence and self-esteem and goes way beyond being shy.

Men can also see a lack of confidence in a woman. I hear men saying there's nothing sexier than the confidence in a woman and when its lacking it's definitely a turn off. Why get in your own way when finding love? If you are confident in yourself the men will be confident in you too. So what you are fat, who cares??????? If a man truly loves you, he will accept you for you and wouldn't want you to compromise who you are as a woman to make him happy. Embrace your body, be you and be fabulous.

It took me years to build the confidence I have and there isn't anything or anyone that can break it. I have not met a man that didn't love how confident I was. My motto is "I can get in line with the best of them." Being over weight has no limitations. I was the largest one in my dance group back in college but my weight never stopped me from learning and performing almost every dance.

Don't get in your way of finding love. How can a man love you if you don't love yourself. Confidence is key. It may take time but just know with confidence and a high self-esteem comes with a happier you.

20 Ways to Love Your Body

1. Think of your body as the vehicle to your dreams. Honor it. Respect it. Fuel it.

2. Create a list of all the things your body lets you do. Read it and add to it often.

3. Become aware of what your body can do each day. Remember it is the instrument of your life, not just an ornament.

4. Create a list of people you admire: people who have contributed to your life, your community, or the world. Consider whether their appearance was important to their success and accomplishments.

5. Walk with your head held high, supported by pride and confidence in yourself as a person.

6. Don’t let your weight or shape keep you from activities that you enjoy.

7. Wear comfortable clothes that you like, that express your personal style, and that feel good to your

body.

8. Count your blessings, not your blemishes.

9. Think about all the things you could accomplish with the time and energy you currently spend

worrying about your body and appearance. Try one!

10. Be your body’s friend and supporter, not its enemy.

11. Consider this: your skin replaces itself once a month, your stomach lining every five days, your liver every six weeks, and your skeleton every three months. Your body is extraordinary--begin to respect and appreciate it.

12. Every morning when you wake up, thank your body for resting and rejuvenating itself so you can

enjoy the day.

13. Every evening when you go to bed, tell your body how much you appreciate what it has allowed you to do throughout the day.

14. Find a method of exercise that you enjoy and do it regularly. Don’t exercise to lose weight or to fight your body. Do it to make your body healthy and strong and because it makes you feel good. Exercise for the Three F’s: Fun, Fitness, and Friendship.

15. Think back to a time in your life when you felt good about your body. Tell yourself you can feel like that again, even in this body at this age.

16. Keep a list of 10 positive things about yourself--without mentioning your appearance. Add to it!

17. Put a sign on each of your mirrors saying, “I’m beautiful inside and out.”

18. Choose to find the beauty in the world and in yourself.

19. Start saying to yourself, “Life is too short to waste my time hating my body this way.”

20. Eat when you are hungry. Rest when you are tired. Surround yourself with people that remind you of your inner strength and beauty.

Don’t Weigh Your Self-Esteem. It’s What’s Inside That Counts!

Compiled by Margo Maine, Ph.D.

Sit Those Puppies Up

I am not talking about actual puppies!!!! 8 out of 10 women are wearing the wrong size bra...crazy right!!! It is very common for women to think they are a certain size when they are not. Usually as long as it buckles you may think it fit. I recommend you get bra fittings at least one a year, especially if you have just had a child. If you are not able to get a fitting anytime soon, there are a lot of key factors that lets you know your bra is too small.

1. You have spillage. Your breast should not spill out of your bra in any area unless you bought a massive push up bra.

2. Your straps dig into your shoulders. That is a sign your breast is to large and heavy for that bra.

3. The band (sides) of your bra rolls up. If that happens your band is not long enough to properly fit your body.

4. The back rides up (looks like an arch). Again your band is not long enough to properly fit around your body.

5. Your breast still sag with a bra on. Your breast should always sit up (perky like). If they still sag you have on the wrong bra.

6. You have a lot of room in your bra. Gaps are a sign that your bra cup size is too big.

The best way to find out your correct bra size is to go to a lingerie store and have them measure it for you. You can also look at the chart below to help you figure out your bra size.

Courtesy of Platex

 

Challenge Accepted....100 Days of Happiness

I can not tell you guys how crazy my life has been since May. Although this year started off  in more amazing ways than I can describe, my life took a drastic change going into May. Since then I have been slowly picking up the pieces of my life but I can't lie; it has been extremely difficult.

I love to share my life journey with you guys to show you I am not immune to life struggles and to reach those who are in need of someone to help them through theirs. Constantly telling myself what I need to do but never executing it is a big thing for me. Lately I have found myself doing that a lot due to the stress and other factors in my life.

At some point you have to grab life by the horns and get into gear to achieve the life you want to have. That is what I am doing starting today. There are a few things I am putting in place to help me along my journey. The major things I want to focus on is handling my stress/frustration/anger, my weight/overall health, and certain areas in my business.

There a few things I plan to do to that. I plan to write in a journal, update my vision boards in my room, pray and read my bible, and the last thing is something I thought can be fun is taking the 100happydays challenge. I have a few friends that are currently doing it and I wanted to see if it cant help me get out of this funk I am in.

I think something like this is great for people who want to improve on the way they think about certain aspects in their lives. So if you have body image issues, financial issues, relationship issues or any other thing you might be going through, you should give this challenge a try. You can sign up HERE and get started which ever day you chose. I hope this will help you on your journey. Follow my instagram @sizefabulous to see my daily challenge post.

Let me know if you sign up and we can stay in touch throughout the journey!!!!!

How to Create the Perfect Photoshoot

I get a lot of messages from women who are plus size models or would like to become a plus size model. Although Size Fabulous does not do anything as far as managing models, I do like to send these fabulous ladies to the right people or provide them with any information I know. Since it can be difficult to become successful as a plus size model, I want to give you a few tips that can help you take the best photos for your portfolio, blog post, website and etc. if you are in charge of your shoot.

• Plan your outfits out in advance. Lay everything out and try things on to make sure all of your items compliment each other and look amazing on your body. Take a picture if you need to remember planned looks, especially if you are shooting more than one look.
• Steam or iron your clothes. There is nothing worse than wrinkle clothes in pictures. If you are taking clothes to a location, it is best to invest in a portable steamer.
• Make-up is up to you, however, if you are going to go full glam and you are a newbie to it get some one who is experienced to help you. If you don't want to go that route a great lipstick will do.
• You hair should be neat. Even if the hair is meant to be a little crazy it should still look well put together.
• LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!! Your outfit will look best where there is the most natural light. Outside is a great choice, but if you want to do it inside make sure you have proper lighting so your clothing true colors will show.
• Your CAMERA is very important. You should invest in a camera that is capable of high quality/high resolution photos. Also invest in a tripod if you have to take the photos yourself.

As much as we would all like to pay for a bomb photoshoot, a lot of us can't. These tips will help you create your own bomb photos for whatever you need. Now smile for the camera!

MLB Star Prince Fielder Nude...Que The Outrage

Now y'all know anytime a big person does something out of the ordinary (of small minded people) the outrage rings in heavy, even for Texas Ranger's star Prince Fielder.

ESPN is releasing their annual Body Issue and they have seemed to feature people they usually would not. While we are used to seeing the industry standard chiseled and toned athlete, this year we are getting everything from the 77 year old golfer Gary Player to the pregnant volleyball player Kerri Walsh Jennings. However it's the 275 pound Fielder that is causing the uproar.

You would think that a PRO ATHELTE that brings in multi-million dollar contracts would no have need to defend himself to the critics. After all, if he wasn't in good enough shape how would he be able to preform on a daily basis for a professional team. Yet he is still left with negative comments because of his body type...SMH

Knowing that he is not the average size of a MLB player he told ESPN:

"You don’t have to look like an Under Armour mannequin to be an athlete. A lot of people probably think I'm not athletic or don't even try to work out or whatever, but I do. Just because you're big doesn't mean you can't be an athlete. And just because you work out doesn't mean you're going to have a 12-pack. I work out to make sure I can do my job to the best of my ability. Other than that, I'm not going up there trying to be a fitness model."

It kills me that something that is so positive is torn down just because it is not the ideal image of some. So instead of congratulating him on his confidence and amazing career, not to mention how fine he is LOL, people take one look at his naked body and share their hurtful words. What a shame!

I have to applaud Prince and ESPN for stepping out side the box and showing love to those who don't fit the industry mold.  I totally encourage more outlets to feature more individuals which will then lead to a change in what many see as normal.

Meanwhile lets take another look at his amazing shoot!

You're in a Relationship......BUT He's Not!

Listening to the radio this morning, a woman calls in for advise about her relationship. She is seeing a man and just had a baby but technically/kind of/sort of/not really but really in a relationship with him. He wants her to be committed and faithful to him yet they don't have an official or titled relationship. So basically she's in a relationship but he is not. SMH!

I can however relate to her story. I have been where she is but ladies this is not a place where you want to be. We are often settling for a bullshit type of relationship just to be in a relationship and for what???? To say we have a man while behind closed doors you really don't. Men will only do to us what we allow. So while we sitting here staying faithful to a man that isn't doing the same, you are setting yourself up for heart break. If we don't put our initial needs on the table in the beginning, men will try and get away with everything they can.

It's crazy because through my own rollercoaster relationship with my children father, whom I've shared with you guys a few times before, I can say I am finally free from the stress, drama and frustration it caused. I allowed so many things throughout the 7 1/2 years that when I was finally done he couldn't believe it and I still can't believe that he doesn't understand why I cut all ties (besides the children). My sister had to remind me that I allowed so much throughout years that he wouldn't think this time would be any different and I can't blame him.

I understand what it is like to love a man and will just accept any piece of him he offers just to be with him. But what positive things are we really gaining from doing this???? There are none! When you hear someone saying "Know Your Worth" we really have to listen. We deserve nothing but respect, love, and everything you bring to the relationship the man should bring too. Think about it.... what will make you happy in your situation??????

 

KNOW YOUR WORTH LADIES!!!!!!!!! 

Stop Avoiding the Dressing Room

How often do we go to the dressing room to try on that uber cute pair of jeans only to be disappointed that they don't fit. For many women it's no problem they don't fit but for some it can be a devastating and confidence killing moment. Either you gained weight or the designer cut of the item does not fit you properly and you feel like it's all your fault you can't find cute clothes. Situations like these have kept many women from going into physical store locations and enjoying the shopping experience. I feel everyone should enjoy the sopping experience so I have listed a few things you can do to be a more confident shopper specially when you have to go to the dressing room.

~ GET YOUR SIZE!!!!!!!! I can not tell you how much this is important. Many women try to squeeze into items that is just not their size only to get upset when it doesn't fit.

~ Get additional sizes of the same item. Certain designer cuts run very different so if possible get a few sizes of the same item to see which one will fit you best.

~ Bring a few options in just in case. Just in case if that item doesn't fit have some alternatives to try on.

~ Know what fabrics will work best with the sizes you choose. You should be aware of what will give you more stretch when you need it and vice versa.

~ Have a back up store. Always have a store you can go to that you know will have things you can find in your correct size for whatever occasion you are shopping for.

These are few rules I go by when I shop and it helps me avoid the dressing room meltdown.

Hopefully they will help you to!!!!!!

Follow The Signs #OOTD

Nothing like a curve hugging dress!!!!! Many women are a little uncomfortable wearing a bodycon dress because of their size. I feel where you are coming from and if it wasn't for shapewear I wouldn't be wearing one either. Ladies you have to find the proper fitting foundation pieces to get the best support. I got mine from Catherine's but there are many other places you can get great pieces from. Check out this great bodycon dress from Size Fabulous Boutique!

Side Note: Get this dress and others with 50% Off using code: JULY50 in our 4th of July Sale Here!

Shoes are from ShoeDazzle

True Life: My Boyfriend is Fed Up with My Weight.....Womp Womp

I love watching MTV's True Life and more often than not many people can relate to what the people are going through in their episode. True Life has been flying under the radar lately, probably because of ratings, so I've found that new episodes come on very randomly and very late. Well that's the only time I tend to catch them. Last night's episode featured two couples in which the women are facing weight loss battles to save their relationship and each couple got me upset in different ways.

The first couple consisted of a very fit man and an overweight woman. The man was very into fitness and healthy eating and the woman wasn't. She was like the average big girl who enjoyed her food and did little physical activity. With her boyfriend constantly on her case about loosing weight she obliged but it didn't come without added relationship issues. This is when I started to give my major side eye... I was all for encouraging her to live a healthier lifestyle but it was the way he went about it. Like many (for reasons I will never understand since it never works) thought by calling her names, giving her ultimatums, and damn near forcing her to workout and eat the way he did would give her the motivation to lose weight. Why, Why, Why do people do this!!!!!!! It never works and usually brings on negative results. My whole thought during the show was why is he with her if he wants a smaller framed woman and why is she with him when he talks to her that way. I absolutely can not deal with women regardless of size that stays in a relationship when someone puts you down constantly. That is not and will NEVER be love. This young lady deserves better and hopefully in time she will and if SHE wants to lose weight for HERSELF I am more than proud she is making it happen. We just have to remember why we are doing things and it should always be because we want to do it for ourselves and through our own journey.

Now on to the other couple.....Major side eye from the beginning. There is a slightly over weight guy and a severely obese woman. What got me upset about this couple is that the man simply wanted his girlfriend to become healthier. He didn't want her to be a size two, he just wanted her to get down to a healthier weight due to the medical conditions she has and she was straight up being lazy and not seeing the severity of her situation. After miscarriages due to her size and other medical problems she still did not take her weight seriously. Now as much as I preach to love your body I also preach living a healthy lifestyle regardless of your size. It wasn't until she became pregnant AGAIN and her boyfriend left her (because of the burden she became due to her constant weight gain and unwillingness to do better) that she understood she had to take her weight seriously and do something about it. It killed me to see her killing herself. I thought her confidence was awesome but regardless of your size you should always work towards making healthy life choices to live a long life. There was no doubt that had she not gotten pregnant and her boyfriend stayed she would still be gaining weight and that's sad. He had to help her put her shoes on and tie them for her and she told him  he would be doing more for her in the near future. Now how selfish is that!!!!! By the end of the show she had a healthy baby and was embracing eating better and exercising and looking into getting weight loss surgery.

This episode hit many spots with me and my own weight loss journey/struggle LOL. Everyone has a choice of how they see their life and what they would like to do in it. First and foremost always focus on your health and secondly make sure your choices are for you. You have to love yourself before you make your changes or your changes will mean nothing.

Thanks for letting me vent LOL.....

Retailer City Chic to Open 6 New Stores in California

In great plus size news!!!! Plus size retailer City Chic will be opening 6 new stores in California. If you are not familiar with City Chic, they carry uber cute and trendy clothing. Their prices are similar to Lane Bryant and they usually have great sales. The only down side for me is that all the stores will be in California. Hopefully that will change and eventually we will get stores all over the US. For those of you like me that are not in CA, you can check out Nordstrom stores. City Chic is now available in select Nordstroms, but if you do not have a Nordstrom, like me lol, you can continue to shop online with ease. Check out the new City Chic locations and the Nordstrom locations.

 

City Chic Culver City	Westfield Culver City Shop 294,6000 Sepulveda Boulevard Culver City, CALIFORNIA,90230	Coming Soon 8/01/2014
City Chic Brea	Brea Mall Shop 167, 1065 Brea Mall Brea, CALIFORNIA, 92821	Coming Soon 08/08/2014
City Chic Tyler	Galleria At Tyler Shop 205, 1299 Galleria AT Tyler Riverside, CALIFORNIA, 92503	Coming Soon Mid August 2014
City Chic Mission Valley	Westifeld Mission Valley Shop 141, 1640 Camino Del Rio N San Diego, CALIFORNIA, 92108	Coming Soon End August 2014
City Chic Northridge	Northridge Fashion Center Shop 183, 9301 Tampa Avenue Northridge, CALIFORNIA, 91324	Coming Soon End August 2014
City Chic Glendale	Glendale Galleria 100 West Broadway, Suite 700 Glendale, CALIFORNIA, 91210	Coming Soon September 2014

Limited Range now available in select Nordstrom Stores! Call store for details
Nordstrom Downtown Seattle	500 Pine Street Seattle, WASHINGTON 98101 206.628.2111	Store Information Map
Nordstrom Michigan Avenue	55 East Grand Avenue Chicago, ILLINOIS 60611 312.464.1515	Store Information Map
Nordstrom Old Orchard Center	4937 Old Orchard Center Skokie, ILLINOIS 60077 847.677.2121	Store Information Map
Nordstrom Fashion Valley	6997 Friars Road San Diego, CALIFORNIA 92108 619.295.4441	Store Information Map
Nordstrom Fashion Show	3200 Las Vegas Boulevard South Las Vegas, NEVADA 89109 702.862.2525	Store Information Map
Nordstrom Valley Fair	2400 Forest Avenue San Jose, CALIFORNIA 95128 408.248.2180	Store Information Map
Nordstrom The Plaza at King of Prussia	190 North Gulph Road King of Prussia, PENNSYLVANIA 19406 610.265.6111	Store Information Map
Nordstrom Houston Galleria	5192 Hidalgo Street Houston, TEXAS 77056 832.201.2700	Store Information Map
Nordstrom Online		shop.nordstrom.com