Why are most men AFRAID of dating FAT girls?

Happy Friday!

    A couple of days ago I was having a conversation with a dear friend who mentioned I was lucky to have found someone like my boyfriend who loved me before I lost the weight, that it was a way to know he truly cared for me. The conversation continued to it being some what of a testament to his character. It got me to thinking of the many times friends and I could hear negative commentary from the table next to us about our weight, by the same men, who later couldn't wait to try to get us to go on a "date", as long as his friends weren't looking. Then I asked myself the question, "Why are most men afraid of dating FAT girls??"

   Before I get into this subject I want to remind everyone these are MY opinions. The views I have come to understand and believe and think throughout my life and as a former FAT girl. They in no way encapsulate everyone, every FAT girls emotions or man's perspective. Ok, now that that's out of the way.

Why are most men AFRAID of dating FAT girls??

   I couldn't tell you the amount of times a man would be staring at me, smiling at me, secretly be interested in me, while I could hear the, oh so witty ridicule, that very guy's friends were cackling about my friend's and my weight at the table across from us; all this, while he joined along with the laughter and hurtful comments. Yet, somehow managed to "accidentally" bump into me by the bathroom and express how, "oh so beautiful", I was and how he would love to take me out on a "date". And by date, he meant somewhere private with minimal people and no chance in hell of running into his friends.

   You would be ASTONISHED by how many times this has happened and continues to happen to FAT girls!!

So again, I ask myself, WHY?

Why are most men AFRAID of dating FAT girls?

   It all, again in my opinion, is a giant circle fed by society and media. It starts... media depicts skinny as sexy and fat as ugly, society accepts it as the normal, it leads to shaming those who are 1. FAT and 2. Find FAT girls attractive. Then, we as society start living that normal, it feeds into everything we see and do, and pretty soon it becomes an embarrassment to date a FAT girl.

   Most men are just embarrassed. Not all, some just genuinely don't find fat girls attractive, which is fine. But there are so many men out there who are embarrassed to like fat girls or any girl who isn't the "normal" picture of beauty, because they are embarrassed and afraid to then be ridiculed.

    It gets me to wonder is it because we make it somewhat acceptable to make fun of people who are different?? ... I mean it may not be "pc" to do so. You wouldn't go up to complete strangers and use "Wow that girl is SO FAT" as a conversation starter; but I would be almost willing to bet money, that all of us, at some point, have made at least ONE derogatory joke in expense of someone being different than ourselves or laughed at one that took place. And there you have it... 

   That is the circle. We fuel it regardless if it's intentional or not, we feed the right for men to be embarrassed to date FAT girls, because they are afraid of being JUDGED and we don't provide them with the tools necessary they need to overcome it. And, well, since most everyone look for acceptance in our lives from others, they rather not take the chance on following their true feelings.

    And unfortunately we as a society, don't help make it any better. This is what we have done to ourselves. We congratulate our sons when they have a crush and the first question we ask them, "Is she pretty??" This is innocent and cute at the time, but also planting the seed to the problem in the first place and starting the circle all over again. Because why couldn't we ask if she is , " Smart, kind, funny",  all before, if she is pretty?"

   We as women feed into it as well, striving for skinny versus healthy, sexy versus smart, hot versus kind, and why??? So that we can be accepted and feel good about ourselves? And how can I even write these words when I so often have BELIEVED that myself???

We have to STOP feeding the monster!!!!

   Stop feeding the monster that is media and society norms, STOP looking for the world's approval of our butt, our hair and our nails, our smiles and our EVERYTHING; understand, once in for all, that we are WORTH so much more!

   Why is it so much EASIER SAID THAN DONE?

    This should be life; we should wake up LOVING ourselves not judging ourselves. We should strive to be better because it would make us feel better for OURSELVES, not for others. If we can make, loving yourself for YOU, become the normal.  THAT very concept our loving ourselves, could potentially slow down or even stop shaming, or bullying of any sort. If we were taught the tools needed as a human beings to just appreciate one another for what we are, and love ourselves selflessly, without need for approval from others, we could possibly change the world.  Imagine a world were we realize we are imperfect and find beauty in our differences, know those traits make us individuals, and unique and we shouldn't be EMBARRASSED by it. 

    Let's make it a trend to love ourselves and one another. For you see, this article wasn't really about Why some men are afraid to date fat girls? But about understanding that it isn't entirely their fault. They are a product of the environment and if we change the environment for the better, we would all be better.

     Regardless of how much Rob loved me when I was FAT, our relationship is healthier now than ever before. Through this journey, I found myself in my HEALTH and because of it I am a more confident, happy and a whole person. THAT is why our relationship is stronger. Does it help I look better; of course. But because I FEEL better is why my life has changed for the better!

   I hope one day to be able to wake up every morning and truly love myself completely. Throw away my scale and focus on looking HEALTHY and feeling HEALTHY. And that is the point of this blog. Not to fat shame but to promote health!
   I hope all of you have a wonderful weekend and are blessed. I hope you share this article in hope that it touches someone else enough to share and make positive changes in their life.


Love you for reading,
 Fatfreevee!

                                          PLEASE FOLLOW, SHARE AND COMMENT!

30 SMART SNACKS!

Happy Wed everyone!

   Middle of the week already! WOW! Hope your week is flying by in the best of ways! Today I wanted to add a long list of healthy snacks! You can use them as part of a meal plan or just a part of your healthy eating lifestyle! Hope you enjoy them!

 HEALTHY SNACK OPTIONS!

       (All around150 calories each)

1. 15 almonds and 1 cup apple slices
2. 15 almonds and 1 cup strawberries
3. 10 almonds and 1 mozzarella cheese stick
4. 10 almonds and 1 cup of grapes
5. 10 almonds and 3/4 cup blueberries
6. 10 almonds and 1 cup watermelon

7.  1 mozzarella stick and 1 cup grapes
8.  1 mozzarella stick and 1 large boiled egg
9.  1 mozzarella stick, 1/2 cup strawberries and 8 almonds

10. 1 boiled egg and 10 baby carrots and 1 tablespoon hummus
11. 1 medium green pepper, 1 boiled egg, and 1.5 tablespoon hummus
12. 10 baby carrots, 1 tablespoon hummus and 1 mozzarella string cheese stick

13. 6 celery stalks and 1 tablespoon almond or peanut  butter
14. 1 tablespoon almond or peanut butter and 1 cup apples 
15. 1 tablespoon almond or peanut butter and half a large banana
16. 1 multigrain rice cakes with 1 tablespoon nut butter and 1/2 cup apples
17.  2 multigrain rice snacks, 1 tablespoon hummus
18. 1 multigrain rice snack, .5 tablespoon hummus and 1 mozzarella string cheese stick 

 19. 2 multigrain rice snacks, 2 tablespoons tzatziki and 1 cup raspberries 
20. 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup blueberries and 8 almonds
21. 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup strawberries and 8 almonds
22. 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 square dark chocolate and 1 cup sliced strawberries
23. 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 square dark chocolate and and 8 almonds
24. 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 half banana and 1/2 cup blueberries
25. 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 8 almonds and 1/2 cup raspberries
26. 1/2 cup cottage cheese and 1 cup raspberries
27. 1/2 cup cottage cheese and 3/4 cup blueberries
28. 1/2 cup cottage cheese and 1 cup sliced strawberries
29. 6 cups light popcorn 
30. 2 cups light popcorn and 2 squares dark chocolate 

 

These are just some of the snacks I've made and eaten on my weight loss journey. They have really helped me stay on track, keep and meet my goals!  Hope you like them as much as me! 

Love you for reading, 

Fatfreevee

Please SHARE, comment and FOLLOW! 

Eat what I eat! Breakfast!

Hey Everyone!

     Hope you are having a great week so far. I am working on a new meal plan for a darling friend which is MUCH larger than the last meal plan I posted on the blog. My hopes is that this next meal plan will not only benefit my friend but all of you! And hopefully provide so many food options, that the meal plan could be used as long as you would like without it getting boring, or at least until I post yet another later on! lol.

    Today I am going to share the breakfast options with you in hopes this can get you started in the right direction until the snack, lunch and dinner options are available!

ENJOY!

Breakfast options are all 300 calories

 #1: Spinach and Feta Omelet

2 large eggs
1 large egg white
Nonstick cooking spray
2 cups Spinach
1/4 cup feta
1/8 cup green onions
1 mashed garlic piece
salt
pepper
oregano
1 piece of bread (50 calories or lower) (Could also be half an English muffin, bagel thin, or wrap as long as under 50 calories)

Directions:

1.Spray pan with nonstick cooking spray and add Spinach (chopped or whole) , mashed garlic and green onions and, saute for about a minute
2.Whisk eggs and add to pan
4. Add salt, pepper, oregano to taste
3. At this step you can choose to add the feta to the omelet and cook with eggs or wait till omelet is thoroughly cooked and then top with feta cheese.
4. Enjoy with whatever type of under 50 calorie bread you choose.

#2: Veggie Omelet

2 eggs
1 egg white
Nonstick cooking spray
2 cups Spinach chopped
1 mashed garlic piece
salt
pepper
basil 1 cup tomato chopped
1/2 cup green peppers chopped
1/4 cup mushrooms chopped
1/4 cup low fat cheddar cheese

Directions: 

1.  Spray pan with nonstick cooking spray and add all veggies and garlic until softened to your preference
2. Add salt, pepper, basil to taste
3. Whisk eggs and add to pan
4. Flip omelet to insure throughough cooking.
5. Top with cheese
6. Serve and enjoy


#3:  Spanish style eggs

1 large egg
2 large egg whites
Nonstick cooking spray
1 cup spinach
1 garlic piece mashed
 salt, pepper, oregano to taste 
1/3 cup cooked black beans
1 cup tomato chopped
1/2 cup onions chopped
1/8 cup cilantro chopped
1 corn tortilla

Directions: 

1.  Spray pan with nonstick cooking spray
2. Saute Spinach, tomato, onions, beans, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano and cilantro until softened (about 2 minutes)
3. Whisk and add eggs, cook throughoughly
4.Toast tortilla in oven or heat in microwave
5. Top all onto of toasted corn tortilla
6. Enjoy

#4: Nut butter and Banana oatmeal

1 cup almond milk
1/3 cup whole oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 banana
1 tablespoon Peanut butter or Almond butter

Directions: 

1. In pan add almond milk and whole oats, bring to a boil
2. Lower heat and simmer until oats are softened
3. Add cinnamon
4. Add banana
5. Top with nut butter
6. Enjoy

# 5: Fruity Oatmeal

1 cup Almond milk
1/2 cup whole oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup blueberries
1 cup strawberries
1/2 tablespoon honey

Directions: 

1. In pan add almond milk and whole oats, bring to a boil
2. Lower heat and simmer until oats are softened
3. Add cinnamon
4. Top with berries and honey
5. Enjoy


#6: Nutty Banana Greek yogurt

1 cup vanilla flavored greek yogurt (lite kind, should be 130 calories a cup no more)
1 small banana
1/4 cup nuts

Directions: 

1. Top Greek yogurt with banana and nuts
2. Enjoy

#7: Berrylicious Greek yogurt

1 cup vanilla flavored greek yogurt (lite kind, should be 130 calories a cup no more)
1/2 cup blueberries
1 cup strawberries
1/4 cup lite granola ( under 100 calories)

Directions: 

1. Top Greek yogurt with berries and granola
2. Enjoy

#8: Turkey melt English muffin

1 light calorie English muffin (100 calories)
1 sunny side up or 1 egg omelet
2 pieces of low sodium deli turkey
1 slice low sodium 2% cheese

Directions: 

1. Toast English muffin
2. Top with egg, turkey and cheese
3. Enjoy

#9: Ham melt English muffin

1 light calorie English muffin (100 calories)
1 sunny side up or 1 egg omelet
2 pieces low sodium deli ham
1 slice low sodium 2% cheese
1 thick tomato slice

Directions: 

1.Toast English muffin
2. Top with egg, ham, cheese, and tomato
3. Enjoy

#10: Nutty waffle

1 healthy waffle brand (nature's way, glutino, etc.) (100 calories)
1 tablespoon peanut or almond butter
1/2 banana or 1 cup strawberries
1/2 tablespoon honey

Directions: 

1.Toast waffle
2. Top with nut butter banana OR berries AND honey.
3. Enjoy


    Hope that some, if not all, of you will get a chance to enjoy this meal plan!!!! If you make any of the recipes please feel free to post pics and reviews!!!!

PLEASE SHARE, COMMENT AND FOLLOW!

 

Love you for reading, 

Fatfreevee

Do I miss being FAT?

    What in the world kind of title is that for a post??

   I know you are thinking to yourself, "What??? Does she miss being fat? Is that even a serious question?" But hear me out a minute!

    A couple of days ago someone asked me if I thought I would ever go back to being fat? Asking me if I was worried I would ever slip back into my old lifestyle? I, without hesitation, answered quick with a "no, of course not". That person, of course, expected to hear that and that, was left at that.

   It got me thinking though... What would have happened if I would have said, "YES?"

 What if I would of looked at that person and said, "Yes, actually, I CAN see myself being overweight again in the future?"

    Honesty time, being FAT, overweight, obese, although not pleasant to hear, is what I was, and it is just not healthy. It is a big reasons for premature deaths, sicknesses and so much more in our society. I mean we all know the risks that come with being overweight but beside the obvious health reasons,

 Why is it so BAD to be FAT?

  When you are overweight you are not any less of a person but for whatever reason it comes with too many stigmas.

                        Why and HOW did these stigmas get attached to the overweight community?

     I realize it has a lot to do with people's perceptions. Unfortunate, but they drive a lot of what we do and believe as a society. And in this day and age we believe FAT is BAD for more than just the health risks.

   Though I do admit, through these stigmas society gave the FAT community, I was able to grow.

    I worked so hard when I was overweight to be accepted into society and not be thought less of in everything I did. Work, socializing, friendships, relationships, beauty. I mean, I worked my butt off to be the most independent, intelligent, interesting girl you could meet!

   I was overweight for almost all of my life and due to being overweight I gained some of the most amazing  lessons, skills, traits, moments, memories...


I was overweight when my I met my best friends
I was overweight when growing up with my family
I was overweight when my daddy was alive 
I was overweight when I met the love of my life
I was overweight when I became a mother

   Being overweight made me be a better person in a lot of aspects of my life. It helped me empathize with others, love people's adversities, strive for the unattainable, work harder, be better and I carry all of that with me today as healthy Vee. 

   I gained the work ethic I have today through my adversities. And THANKS to that work ethic, I was able to achieve the very reason I have this blog today; weight loss! Gaining weight helped me gain the work ethic I needed to be in SHAPE! Go figure!

    But to answer the question, no, I will never allow myself to go back to that place, I have worked too hard to go back to being overweight. To being as unhealthy as I was. There really are SO many benefits I gained from being healthy that outweigh being FAT. And this weight loss journey has brought me SO much unimaginable JOY and treasures that I would never ever want to trade in for anything.

    That being said, I will from this day forth stop apologizing for what I used to look like because that old me was amazing... And as I continue to know the new me, I continue to grow and love and learn and just add more knowledge to the knowledge gained from my life as a FAT GIRL.

        I was WORTHY all along!!! I just couldn't see that until I stepped out of that FAT girl bubble!

    I wrote this for all the people struggling to love themselves because of their weight, looks, limitations. You are worthy and amazing and regardless what society tells you, you deserve to be treated and reveired for being equally as fantastic! I hope this helps you love yourself and continue the journey to HEALTH not vanity!

I am sharing with you one of my favorite pics of my family. I look at it and think LOVE... I hope to leave you with some love with this blog....

Love you for reading!
FATFREEVEE

PLEASE SHARE, COMMENT, RE POST AND FOLLOW!

 

Start NOW!.. Five EASY swaps!

Hey All!!

   I hope everyone is having a great day and happy week!

   If you are new to the weight loss or healthy living world, welcome! This is an exciting step to bettering your life and becoming the you, YOU feel you deserve to be! If you are new to this, then odds are that you might be overwhelmed with how much information there is out there in regard to healthy eating and weight loss! You are probably wondering, "What SHOULD I eat? What SHOULDN'T I eat? What is considered healthy?" There is SO much good information out there, and some bad that it can be hard to identify what is what? It can be intimidating to start but luckily you have me! HA!

    When I started my weight loss journey I ate SO many types of food that I assumed weren't "that bad" in smaller portions. As I grew in my journey I soon started switching WHAT on top of HOW much I ate and that is when I saw a real difference. BUT I didn't change my eating habits overnight. Lasting CHANGE is a gradual one! Don't scare yourself out of your healthy eating challenges, face them head on with HEALTHY SWAPS!

Here are five EASY swaps for foods you are most likely eating everyday!


1. Regular whole fat milk SWAPPED for unsweetened Almond Milk.

   There is a debate in the health community as to
what really is the healthiest milk! I am not here to solve that debate, only here to tell you a few reasons why I chose Almond milk versus whole fat Cow's Milk.

   Almond milk is much lower in calories at about 35 calories per 8oz versus 150 in 8oz of whole cow's milk. It is also low in fat, free of lactose, gluten, cholesterol, and saturated fats. It is full of vitamins and minerals your body needs! And did I mention it taste DELICIOUS?!

2. White rice SWAPPED for Brown rice.

  Did you know that white rice is just brown rice that has been MUCH more processed and basically striped of it's beneficial nutrients? There are really no health benefits to consuming white rice. On the contrary consuming Brown rice has many known health benefits.

Brown rice is full of nutrients the body needs, may help regulate blood glucose levels due to it's slow releasing sugars, it is considered a whole grain meaning it is minimally processed with almost all of it's nutritional value kept in tact. It can promote weight loss, it is easily digested and much more! And did I mention it taste DELICIOUS?!


3. Milk or White chocolate SWAPPED or Dark chocolate.

What?? CHOCOLATE! Yes, I said the word chocolate!

Although not white or milk chocolate. Even though yes it is still a form of chocolate processed from the cocoa bean it is heavily processed removing most of it 's beneficial nutrients.
  
Actually dark chocolate has been shown to be very good for you in providing many health benefits. It is a good source of bioflavonoids which are essentially just a super antioxidant. Antioxidants may help counteract essentially the effects of aging that take toll on your body. It doesn't eliminate them but may help keep you stronger longer. And did I mention it taste DELICIOUS??!

4. Iceburg lettuce SWAPPED for Spinach

  There is nothing wrong with Iceburg lettuce it is a good choice for some toppings and some salads but the reason why I choose Spinach over Iceburg is because it is a superfood; a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being, is the definition of a superfood. It has so many health benefits it deserves it's own article but on the short it is full of those antioxidants we spoke about already, so many vitamins, low on calories, full of iron! Make a it into a salad, add it to your omelet, pop it in your smoothie. And did I mention it taste DELICIOUS??!

5. Coffee SWAPPED for Tea

   The next one is a toss up! BOTH coffee and tea have antioxidants about the same amount of caffeine and are low in calories? So why choose tea?? The reason that I choose tea versus coffee is because it taste good on it's own as it's natural source. I like my coffee light and sweet! Causing me to add an unnecessary amount of artificial sugars and creamers into it, to make it taste, in my opionion, delicious. With most teas there really is no need to add so many fillers due to taste. Making it my drink of choice! Now don't get me wrong! I still have my coffee but have yet to love it black... I drink my tea straight up! And did I mention it taste DELICIOUS?!

  I am not a food professional and there is so much debate on what is good and what isn't but this list is based off of the healthy and happy body changes I have experienced by switching out the not so healthy foods with healthier versions! 

Before 2010 During 2014

TOTAL LOST 140LBS

Please share, comment and follow! 

Love you for reading, 

Fatfreevee

SWAP your SYRUP!

Hi all!!!

    I hope everyone is having a HAPPY Monday! I know sometimes that can be an oxymoron (haha) but let's try to make it a good one!

   Many of us might not have made the best choices this weekend and are looking for a fresh start to our lifestyle and what a perfect day to refocus and make it a great food week!

   I made a version of my easy healthy pancakes (1/2 cup oats, mashed banana, one egg, 1/4 cup almond milk, blend all together until smooth about three minutes.)  for Xavier (my three year old) this morning. He loves pancakes! And like most people he likes maple syrup on his pancakes! Until a little while ago, I was topping his pancakes with Aunt Jemima syrup.

Now, I grew up eating Aunt Jemima "maple" syrup like a lot of us did and many still do today, but after taking a closer look at the ingredients, I realized, this was no "maple" syrup at all and I couldn't even understand the ingredients. Here is the back of the Aunt Jemima lite syrup:

 

Where in there is there any maple? There are hardly any ingredients in there I recognize, let alone can pronounce. 

   Due to that, I took it upon myself to find a product low in calories, lower in artificial sugars and a bit healthier that STILL tasted GREAT!

Annnnnndddddddddd, I found IT! 

 http://www.amazon.com/Sohgave-Breakfast-Blueberry-17-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B0045H4NYS/ref=sr_1_1?s=grocery&ie=UTF8&qid=1408378960&sr=1-1&keywords=SOHGAVE+BLUEBERRY

   This syrup is so YUMMY! 

   Now, don't get me wrong, am I saying using this product will help you loose weight? That you can use it without limitations, that it is super healthy?? NO, I am not saying that! What I am saying is that this product is more natural and a bit more healthy than the traditional syrups we tend to use, with ingredients that we cannot even read. We should think about SWAPPING healthier alternatives over the "syrups" we are used to and Sohgave could be a good alternative to use. It taste great and makes kids (and adults) just as happy. 

   I also want you to take into consideration, agave although more natural is still a sugar and should be used in MODERATION. 

Other healthy options to top your pancakes:

1. Greek yogurt with a bit of organic cane sugar and vanilla extract

2. Fruit

3. Honey 

4. REAL maple syrup

PLEASE SHARE, COMMENT AND FOLLOW!!!

Love you for reading, 

FATFREEVEE

Italian stuffed zucchini boat recipe

Hey all!!!

    Sorry I have been missing in action for almost two weeks now! My grandfather became very ill and X (my son) and I went to Orlando for a week to be with him and my family. Thankfully he is much better and I am excited to be back and posting again!

   I am here today to share a big favorite around my house! Zucchini boats!!! YUM! Zuchinni boats are super easy, inexpensive, healthy and very versitile! You can stuff them with whatever you prefer! Today I will be sharing my Italian stuffed zucchini boat. They taste like spaghetti but without the guilt and carbs of pasta plus all of the added nutrion the zucchini brings! Another plus, they are easy to eat and a big hit with my little one! Toddler approved! Oh yeah!

Italian Stuffed Zucchini Boats: Makes 10 zucchini boats

INGREDIENTS:

Five zucchini
Salt (pinch)
Pepper (pinch)
Basil (dry)
1 cup raw onion
1 cup raw sweet red peppers
3 garlic cloves, mashed
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt (to taste)
Pepper (to taste)
Basil (fresh)
Oregano (dry)
Paprika
8 oz ground chicken
1 cup Prego light and smart traditional tomato sauce
1oz hard Parmesan cheese

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Pre heat oven to 350 degrees and grease(spray) a baking sheet.

2. Prep zucchini by chopping of head and bottom of the zucchini, cutting zucchini in half length wise (they should be long) and with a melon scoop or a small spoon, scoop out the middle of the zucchini into a seperate bowl. Leaving only the skin and a little "meat" of the zucchini so that you can fill the middle (looks like a canoe).

3. Line zucchini up in a row and add a pinch of salt, pepper, and dry basil to each individual zucchini boat, put in the oven for about five minutes. Set aside until chicken is prepared.

4. Heat olive oil on medium high heat in a deep pan and add the "meat" you scooped out of the zucchini earlier, onion, pepper, garlic and a pinch of salt for about 2 minutes.

5. Add ground chicken, salt, pepper, fresh basil, oregano, and paprika and cook throughly until chicken is well cooked.

6. Stuff zucchini with cooked meat and add a teaspoon or two of the pasta sauce then top with some cheese.

7. Bake for an additional two minutes or until cheese is melted.

8. Let cool

9. ENJOY!!!

NUTRIONAL INFORMATION: Per zucchini boat

Calories:109 Total fat: 4g Saturated fat: 1g Cholesterol: 20g Carbs: 11g Protein: 8g

   Hope you enjoy this yummy and nutricious recipe!!! Let me know what you think!!

                                    PLEASE SHARE, COMMENT AND FOLLOW! 

Love you for reading,
Fatfreevee

Are your portions controlling YOU???

Hey all!!

          QUESTION???

             Are your portions controlling YOU or are YOU controlling your portions??

    So I often say, portion control, watch how much you eat, drink... etc.. BUT do you even KNOW what an actual portion of something looks like? Odds are, probably NOT!

    You probably have somewhat of an idea of what a portion looks like but not to worry! It's actually not your fault that portion sizes are not intuitive to you! We aren't really ever taught growing up to measure our foods and restaurants and fast food places don't really give us much help in that department either. They usually pile on the food and you get about three times what a healthy portion actually is! NOT to worry! I am here to HELP!

   There are a couple of ways to measure your food. The most accurate is with a kitchen scale. This handy tool helps you know EXACTLY how much of everything you are consuming! And I highly recommend buying one! It will help you understand how much of something looks like and in the future make portioning second nature! This tool will help build the greatest tool we have, OUR BRAIN! It will help train your brain to just KNOW what a portion of something looks like!

Here are a few with great ratings from amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Ozeri-Digital-Multifunction-Kitchen-Elegant/dp/B004164SRA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406844532&sr=8-1&keywords=food+scale

http://www.amazon.com/EatSmart-Precision-Digital-Kitchen-Silver/dp/B001N07KUE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1406844586&sr=8-3&keywords=food+scale&dpPl=1

http://www.amazon.com/Weighmax-Electronic-Kitchen-Scale-2810-2KG/dp/B000P1PJL4/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1406844586&sr=8-4&keywords=food+scale&dpPl=1

  You can also use tools odds are you probably already have in your kitchen! Measuring cups and spoons! These tools are a healthy living and weight loss journey's BEST FRIEND!! So simple to use, chances are you use them to cook as it is! Now you just have to incorporate them into your plating before eating the food. Look at LABELS and see how much a serving is. A cup, A tablespoon? Whatever it may be, make sure you have your measuring cups and spoons handy!

   The link below is a SUPER nifty tool you could check out that makes measuring EASY!

http://www.amazon.com/Meal-Measure-Portion-Control-Tool/dp/B004Z0SDXC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406845184&sr=8-1&keywords=portion+control&dpPl=1

   For those of you who know that you WILL NOT measure your food with a food scale or measuring spoons and cups, wether too time consuming or just not wanting to, that is ok. Key here is to KNOW what a portion looks like. It will be a little harder and a bit less accurate measuring by sight and guessing how much is on your plate BUT it can be done and it is better than not trying to portion out at all!

   I found this awesome guide on portioning that I just love because it makes it easy to measure your food without actually having to bust out your kitchen scale! lol

http://www.pinterest.com/pin/277112183296306946/

Portion control is super important to healthy living and weight loss! It helps create healthy habits by showing you how much of something your body actually needs versus how much we want! Which can be very different! It helps us from over eating and under eating which can both be very dangerous. Many people ask me how I lost 140 pounds. Although, hard to reduce to just a few things, I always mention, clean eating, portion control and exercise. I directly contribute a big portion of my weight loss to portion control and even more MAINTAINING my weight loss which is equally as important! 

I really hope this helps!!

PLEASE SHARE, FOLLOW AND COMMENT!

Love you for reading,

FATFREEVEE!

(Fatfreevee in June of 2014)

EASY Meal Plan!!!!!!

Hey Everyone!!

   Happy Friday! I have been at this loosing weight and healthy eating/ lifestyle for about three years, knowing what foods to consume is really second nature now. I have no problem looking at a menu and choosing a healthy meal or creating my own healthy meals at home. I have no problem in calculating how many calories are in a meal and what to eat to maintain a balanced lifestyle and healthy weight. All that said, it DID NOT come over night!

   I have done so much research, experimented with so many recipes, some not so successful ! HAHA! I do not expect anyone starting this journey to just know what to eat initially and I cannot count the amount of times I have been asked for a guideline/meal plan that is actually achievable, to help kick start a healthy lifestyle!

   I took my knowledge on healthy eating to create a meal plan that I believe is achievable and yummy enough to stick to!

 In this MEAL PLAN you can choose one of three options for breakfast, lunch and dinner and choose one of five snack options! It is based on a 1200* calorie day! :) TADA!

MEAL PLAN #1! 

BREAKFAST, (choose one):

Breakfast option #1:

Oatmeal (300 calories)

1/2 cup rolled oats 

1 cup unsweetened almond milk 

1 large banana 120 

 (Tip : Cook oats in almond milk and add cinnamon for extra yummy flavor, top with banana)

Breakfast option #2:

Veggie Omelet (300 calories)

1 large egg (whisked)

2 large egg whites (whisked)

1 cup spinach

1/2 cup onion

1/2 cup green pepper

1 garlic clove

1 cup tomato

1/2 tablespoon olive oil

1 slice (any brand 45 calorie bread)

(Tip: Heat olive oil in pan, sauté all veggies for about three minutes, add whisked egg and egg whites over veggies, cook until eggs are set)

Breakfast option # 3:

Smoothie (300 calories)

1 cup Unsweetened Almond milk

1 cup Light and Fit Vanilla greek yogurt 

1 cup halved strawberries 

1/2 cup blueberries

1/2 cup large banana

1 cup spinach

(Tip: Blend all ingredients together, add sweetener of choice for extra sweetness, may affect caloric value) 

SNACK, (Choose one):

             (150 calories)

15 almonds and 1 cup apple slices

1 mozzarella stick and 1 cup grapes

1 boiled egg and 10 carrots and 1 tablespoon hummus

6 celery stalks and 1 tablespoons almond butter 

2 multigrain rice snacks, 2 tablespoons tahini and 1 cup raspberries 

LUNCH, (Choose one):

Lunch Option #1:

Lettuce Wraps (300 calories)

4 large romaine lettuce leaves

5 oz chicken

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 medium green onion

1/2 cup shredded carrots

1/2 cup brown rice

(Tip: Prepare brown rice as instructed, set aside, add chicken, soy sauce, green onion, and carrots in a pan and sauté until cooked, blend in rice, wrap with lettuce leaf)

Lunch Option #2: 

Mediterranean Pita (300 calories)

1 Low calorie pita (100 cal)

2 tbsp hummus

2 tbsp black olives

1 cup cucumbers

1/2 cup tomato

1/4 cup onion

1/4 cup feta cheese

2 tbsp tzatki  

(Tip: Spread hummus evenly on both sides of pita, add all veggies and feta into pita pocket, top with Tzatziki) 

Lunch Option #3: 

Salmon avocado tomato salad (300 calories)

1/4 medium avocado

1 medium tomato

5 oz Salmon (cooked)

1/2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

(Tip: Combine all ingredients, add salt and pepper to taste)

SNACK, (Choose one):

                (150 calories)

15 almonds and 1 cup apple slices

1 mozzarella stick and 1 cup grapes

1 boiled egg and 10 carrots and 1 tablespoon hummus

6 celery stalks and 1 tablespoons almond butter 

2 multigrain rice snacks, 2 tablespoons tahini and 1 cup raspberries 

DINNER, (Choose one):

Dinner Option #1:

Taco Salad (300 calories)

1 cup shredded romaine lettuce

1 cup spinach

6 oz grilled chicken breast

1/4 cup black beans

1/4 cup corn

1/2 cup onion

1 cup tomato

1/2 cup cilantro

(Tip: Combine all ingredients into a salad)

Dinner Option #2:

Lemon Baked Salmon (300 calories)

7 oz Salmon

1 lemon sliced

1/2 cup broccoli

1/2 cup cooked brown rice

(Tip: Lay lemon slices on top of a large sheet of aluminum foil, lay salmon and broccoli on top of lemon slices, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, wrap foil around fish as to create a dome around food, bake until fish is properly cooked, serve on top of brown rice)

Dinner Option #3:

Veggie Soup

1 cup onion

3 cloves smashed garlic

Basil (to taste)

Oregano (to taste)

1 cup zucchini

3 cups low sodium veggie broth

1 cup cooked green beans

1/4 cup cooked black beans

1/4 cup cooked chick peas

1/2 medium cooked sweet potato

(Tip: Sauté onion, smashed garlic, basil. oregano, and zucchini until tender about four minutes, add low sodium veggie broth and bring to boil, add in rest of ingredients and simmer for about ten to fifteen minutes insuring your soup does not dry out, add salt and pepper to taste) 

  *How many calories you should consume to keep a healthy weight or even lose weight per day, is different for every person. If you should be consuming more calories to meet your caloric minimum throughout the day please make sure you are doing so and not depriving your body the minimum nutrition and calories it needs to function properly and healthy. If you do not know how many calories you should be consuming please read http://fatfreevee.blogspot.com/2014/05/what-does-she-know-getting-started.html for a calorie calculator. 



 Dressing room shot during my weight loss 2012 and current weight 2014 an 80 pound difference!

          
LOVE YOU FOR READING,
FATFREEVEE

SHARE FOLLOW AND COMMENT!

Fatfreevee does VACATION!!!

Happy Wednesday!!

    We went to breakfast this weekend while on vacation. We are in the middle of the woods in the North, the restaurant we went to was a little down home cooking spot popular with the locals. The menu looked delicious, BUT not very nutritious. I was a little worried at first but decided to just ask if they could substitute the regular eggs of the omelet for egg whites, add more veggies and have an english muffin versus toast! And you know what??? They were MORE than happy to help me out and substitute those things!

   Was it hard not having the pancakes and stuffing my face with the DELICIOUS corn beef hash at the table! (YES, I did have a bite, oooo it was good!!) But you know what? My meal was very delicious as well, I didn't even focus on what I was eating due to the great conversation and people and afterword I felt great I stuck to my lifestyle!

It got me thinking and inspired me to write about STICKING TO HEALTHY choices and diet while on vacation!

WHAT???!!

I know, I know this can be so hard! But NOT impossible!

1. RELAX!

   So the first step is not to worry so much about what you are eating and just FOCUS on making better decisions versus completely not eating things you want to eat. The reason this is the first step is because you are on VACATION! It should be FUN not stressful! You shouldn't be worrying about every single thing you put in your mouth and what times you are eating and when and where! You should be focusing on having fun and creating memories!

    DON'T confuse this step with eating everything you want, whenever you want and completely forgetting about healthy choices. What I am saying is, DO NOT deprive yourself!! While still practicing moderation and healthy substitutions whenever you can. That way you give yourself the leeway to enjoy the atmosphere, and foods without completely shattering your diet and regressing on your progress.


2. THINK AHEAD!

   Try and PREPARE yourself for whatever food situation you are going to face. Before you go to a restaurant, check out their menus online, going somewhere with nothing but unhealthy snacking options? (grandma's house, haha)? Bring your OWN snacks! Staying somewhere that won't have foods you eat on a constant basis and not the best options?? Buy and bring your own foods and that way you have them available! Most of the time, people will not be offended that you are trying to live healthier and be HAPPY to help. If you are afraid someone will be offended, talk to them about before hand!

3. SUBSTITUTIONS!

   Make sure you are watching what is in your food... Ok, so you want to have a burger! The great thing is that MANY places will have no problem substituting certain ingredient! Don't be afraid to ask! Go head and ask if they have a leaner beef they can use or even a different type of meat (Buffalo is super lean and taste just like beef, better!) Ask if they have a whole wheat bun or only eat one of the buns! Instead of fries, see if they have sweet potato fries, and if they can bake them instead! TADA!!! You were STILL able to have the burger and fries, just on the healthier side without having to sacrifice in taste and the experience and without feeling deprived! Don't be afraid to ask for substitutions!

4. PORTION CONTROL!

   You are having a great time! And making smarter choices while still experiencing the sites, and taste, but don't forget to still practice PORTION CONTROL! While on vacation, we tend to eat out much more, which is great and so fun! Problem is that it is easy to forget that restaurant portions are not proper portions, they tend to be much bigger! WATCH out for how much of something you are eating! Try ordering half portions if available, ask them to box half of the order BEFORE they give you the plate (you won't miss the food that is boxed up) or ordering the smaller options. That way you don't feel deprived of not being able to eat it all because there isn't that much of it to begin with. The best part I like about this step is not having to have the, "OHHHhhhh I ate TOO MUCH," tired, groggy feeling. And it still keeps you motivated to keep having fun on your vacation versus needing a nap! haha

5. Don't fall victim to PEER PRESSURE!

   This is a HARD one... You see your friends, family, skinny cousin (who can eat anything and not gain weight because her metabolism is just that fast, that you are jealous of but DON'T be), and you start thinking, "well, they are eating it, I should eat it too!" DON'T LISTEN to that voice! hahah Just because they are eating something doesn't mean you have to as well! Remember, it's your body and you know it best. The CALORIES you eat on vacation are not FREE and they are still contribute to your diet! But again, don't feel so pressured to stick to your diet to where it makes you sad or overwhelmed and as if you are not having any fun! You don't want to have a healthy lifestyle be a miserable one! So if you do decide to eat something not so healthy just remember it is temporary decision and get back to your healthy habits!

6. Listen to your BRAIN not your GUT!

   Don't listen to your gut when it says you NEED that HUGE piece of cheesecake after dinner or your gut when it says you need to eat all the snacks at the table while playing board games with your family. Listen to your brain, because most of the time those decisions to eat are out of BOREDOM! Avoid this! Drink water and see if you still NEED it... if you do, practice moderation, again, just take enough to satisfy the itch of having some! Listen, to your gut when it says you are full. Stop eating then, don't overeat due to it tasting good. You brain is on your side, your gut, well, that can be a glutinous FOOL! hahah

7. Fall of the wagon? GET BACK ON!

   You ate something that isn't conducive to your diet or lifestyle, not the best choice??? Fall off your diet for a meal, a day???? WHO HASN'T! What is the difference between people who are successful and those that don't necessarily met their weight loss/healthy living goals??!!! THEY GOT BACK ON, their healthy lifestyle and weight loss journey! A bad meal, bad day, bad week, bad weigh in, doesn't mean you should give up and forget about your goals! It happens to all of us! If it did, guess what?? Get back ON that healthy lifestyle wagon and ride it till your goals! We all have bad days, sometimes days, and week! Key is to NOT GIVE UP!

8. HAVE FUN!

   It is a VACATION! Have FUN!!!! Don't stress so much about every little thing you eat, as long as you practice moderation and try to stick to healthier eating options you should be fine! Even IF you regress a little on your diet, they key is you had fun, built precious memories and you go back to LIVING healthy and making the best choices once your vacation is over! At the end of the day life is about memories, it is precious and wondrous, too busy and too short. Take the TIME to make happy memories and don't let being so worried about being "skinny" or overly healthy ruin your good time! Trust me, I have been working a long time to master this but just try to remember to relax and ENJOY!

Hope this helps!!!

I will be SO very busy working on relaxing! hahah I will post again next week!

I love you for reading!
Fatfreevee

FINALLY answered! " How DID I do it???"

Hi all!!

    I have so many things to talk about and so much to say about healthy living, weight loss, about the journey and steps it takes to get there, that I get overwhelmed when people ask me, "How DID you do it?"

   The reason I get so overwhelmed is because, although a simple answer could be given, there were also so many other things I did to get to get to where I am today, it makes it hard to sum up in just a few words, thus why I created a blog! haha

  Although, I started the blog, it did not alleviate the most popular question I get asked on a DAILY basis,

  "HOW DID YOU DO IT?"

   I am NOW going to ATTEMPT to answer this ever so popular question to the best of my ability, and as simply as possible...OK here we go...

What did I do to LOSE 140LBS??

Two things:

1. Eat right

2. Exercise

Is it really that simple?

 Well, yes, technically, that is all that it takes!

  BUT in all reality even though technically, those two steps are all it takes to lose weight and be healthy, there really is SO much to know about the way your body works, what is in food, how much you should consume, etc.

Ok, want a LITTLE more???... Here we go!

Many also often ask "How did you (fatfreevee) personally start your journey?? WHAT EXACTLY DID YOU (fatfreevee) DO?
 

  My diet is very regimented now BUT I started out small, taking my time on EACH step BEFORE moving to the next to ensure I understood what I was doing:

1. I started by getting rid of all drinks but WATER, LOTS of water!!!! That was literally my first step.

2. I learned how to read a FOOD LABEL, and how many servings are in foods!

3. I learned PORTION CONTROL, I started measuring ALL of my food, I bought a food scale and started watching my portions by using measuring cups and measuring spoons

4. I learned HOW many calories I should be eating to lose weight and stay healthy

5. I started a FOOD JOURNAL so that I could know HOW many calories certain foods had, it helped big time for portion control, keeping me motivated and keeping me accountable

6. I started eating five to six meals a day to help rev up my METABOLISM

AFTER I mastered THAT:
 
7. I started SWITCHING the BAD with the GOOD... for example good carbs versus bad carbs, good fats versus bad fats and so on.

8. I started cutting out foods that I knew were just BAD... so all fried foods, all fast foods, all SUGARY foods, super SALTY foods, etc. 

9. I then became an advocate for CLEAN EATING and basically not eating foods with labels, mostly eating fruits and veggies all day every day and only lean meats
10. Then I actually started learning about WHAT ingredients and other things are in my food have slowly gone mostly organic!

Exercise:
 

   I started REALLY slowly... 10 minutes of walking in the beginning progressed and became 20 minutes, which became 30 minutes and so on. One minute of jogging became two minute jogs then three minute jogs, next thing you know I am running three miles in 29 minutes, and I'm just getting WARMED up!

  You have probably heard that line about working out being a process that gets easier over time too often; it's the truth. It takes work but like with any skill, the more you practice the better and easier it gets for you! 

  I am going to keep it REAL with you... It is NOT an overnight process... You will have your ups and downs with your diet, lifestyle and exercise regimen. BUT whether you do it or not, time will pass anyway, why not pass it doing something WORTH while????!!

  If you stick to it, you WILL see results! It is easy to get discouraged but if you just focus on FEELING good and being positive and realizing ONE bad day doesn't mean you have to quit... that you can just get back on and keep moving forward.
  
  I didn't get my before and after overnight! But it was SO worth the struggles because it made me realize the amount of strength and perseverance I have! And made my weight loss victory THAT much sweeter!!

                                                  BEFORE                              AFTER

PLEASE FOLLOW, SHARE, AND COMMENT!!

LOVE YOU FOR READING,
FATFREEVEE

<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/12307797/?claim=wqafwhz4uzx">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>

FOUR on the FOURTH!! Easy exercise

Happy Friday and Happy July 4th!!

      For most of America it is a three day weekend!!! Yay!!! Full of fun in the sun, family and friend time, barbecues, beach and pool time!! Woohoo!! It's going to be an awesome weekend! I hope all of you enjoy and have a great time! 

     This week I got started on the topic of working out and I think it's a great time to introduce SIMPLE ways you can incorporate easy exercises into your life! Best part??? You won't even really realize you are working out! And what better time than this weekend to try these simple NO FUSS exercising tips; since you will probably be too busy with all the fourth of July activities to make it to the gym!

Four EASY ways to add some exercise in YOUR life! 

1. Pick a "GOOD" parking spot

 Most people go somewhere with a parking lot at least once a day, and most of us take the time to find a "good" parking spot. I know it's purely out of convenience and time but how about we change our perception of what a "good" parking spot actually is. How about parking (if safe) as far as you can from the store and walking. Take the time that it would of taken you to find a good parking spot and park further away, that time could be used getting to the store, rather than searching for a closer spot. It is a great way of getting your exercise in without even really having to break a sweat. 

2.  Stair MASTER baby!

    Again most of encounter a set of stairs on an almost daily basis! BUT we almost always chose the elevator! I understand the convenience aspect all too well, having a toddler makes the stairs a terrifying experience for me LOL! BUT if it possible, try to go ahead and take the stairs whenever you can! It really doesn't save that much time between waiting for the elevator to come down and up and actually just taking the stairs! It can make a dramatic difference in your calories burnt throughout the day! 

3. CLEANLINESS is SKINNINESS? 

   Most of us have to do some sort of cleaning throughout the week, if you have a child, most likely every day! haha! Did you realize doing some of the house work is actually burning a good amount of CALORIES? Hmm?? Things like vacuuming, moping, yard work (push mower) cleaning windows, cleaning that takes movement etc. all of these can add up to some pretty awesome calories burnt... usually over 100 in a matter of half of an hour, sometimes less time! It ALMOST makes cleaning fun!! haha 

4. DANCE PARTY!

    This is my FAVORITE way of exercising without even trying! Xavier (my three year old) and I have an almost daily DANCE PARTY!! Where we put on the music and shake out tooshies for about 10 minutes! Not only is it a BLAST and my son gets a kick out of it, BUT I am burning some pretty serious calories!!! Do you love to dance?? Have a daily DANCE PARTY or go out with some of your friends and shake it out on the dance floor! Dancing is awesome cardio and can definitely help you see FASTER progress in your weight loss journey! 

    Every single on of these tips are EASILY incorporated into daily routines and can make a big difference in achieving your goal! Try them out and see how they can HELP you in your journey! 

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY AMERICA! 

Love you for reading! 

FAT FREE VEE 

             This pic is of one half way through my journey and one taken about two weeks ago!

                                            SHARE, COMMENT, AND FOLLOW! 

Do you HAVE to exercise to lose weight????

Hi all!


     So, the ultimate question... Do you HAVE to exercise to lose weight??...

   Real answer... NO... Weight loss is about 80-90% what you eat and drink.

   You technically don't have to work out to lose weight. I wrote a post about calories that explains what a calorie is and how it works with your body http://fatfreevee.blogspot.com/2014/05/what-does-she-know-getting-started.html.

   In that post I state that in order to loose weight you have to do the following:  If you consume more calories (energy) than your body can burn off or use, it gets stored as FAT; You have to reduce how many calories you are consuming now so that it's less than the calories you burn... that way your body HAS to start burning the FAT it's storing for energy! 

    As long as the amount of calories you are eating or drinking in the day are less than the calories you burn, you will lose weight.

   BEFORE YOU START CELEBRATING, here are just a FEW of the reasons why you SHOULD definitely work out!

1. Paired with a healthy diet it will help you not only lose weight, maintain the weight loss, prevent weight gain or even help you achieve FASTER weight loss results.

2. Helps improves your chances of living longer

3. Helps you sleep better

4. Helps fight off symptoms of depression and anxiety

5. Helps prevent type 2 Diabetes

6. Helps to prevent some types of cancer

7. Helps prevent heart disease, high blood pressure

8. Helps prevent loss of bone

9. Helps improve circulation, which can lead to a better sex life

10. Gives you energy

11. Natural stress reliever

12. Helps improve your confidence

13. Helps improve your memory

14. Helps you look younger

15. Helps you boost your metabolism

   That's really just the TIP of the iceberg in the reasons why you should work out and why it is so important in your life! The key here people is better HEALTH and exercising is SUCH an important key to that!

   I wrote this post today because although I've LOST 140 pounds I still need motivation sometimes to get my exercise in, even though I know how amazing it is for you.

  Some of you may be intimidated or not even know where to start? Don't worry this week will be devoted to work out tips and advice! I hope you take the time to check it out!

  Keep reading and following so you too can have your before and after:

FAT FREE VEE'S BEFORE AND AFTER

FOLLOW, SHARE AND COMMENT!

Love you for reading!
Fat Free Vee

WHY AM I SAD?

Hi all,

     Today I am a bit down about my weight and, although candid, I'm going to write about it. Went to Orlando last week for about nine days to visit some family and got the opportunity to head out to a girls weekend in St. Augustine. It was awesome! I had so much fun reconnecting with my best friends just lounging, relaxing, laughing and did I mention eating?!  St. Augustine has some pretty amazing restaurants! 

 I didn't go CRAZY with food and still stuck to some of my rules for eating at a restaurant without curbing your progress http://fatfreevee.blogspot.com/2014/05/step-away-from-bread-basket-restaurants.html?m=1. CHECK it out. Very helpful.  Although, I did give into some things I normally wouldn't, I THOROUGHLY enjoyed them!!! But came home and of course was no longer 142 (weight I left to Orlando at), I weighed145 this morning!!!  I know you are probably saying, " SERIOUSLY??? What is the big deal??? SO what? You had a good time and you gained three pounds. Hardly anything!", Right? WRONG!

 Well? A combination of the two. I am not sad I let go and didn't go crazy with counting calories or watching all of the ingredients and I do not regret any of the choices food wise I made while away; but I am disappointed that I did gain the weight. I was hoping by some miracle I would stay the same. Hahah. 

  I am not defined by my weight. I am not a better person if I weigh 140 versus 145 but I FEEL better about myself when I do. Or do I????!!!!! Here is a question I asked my self after I weighed myself this morning?      WHY AM I SAD???  

   When I looked in the mirror BEFORE I weighed myself I was happy!  But after, I was sad..... so why am I sad? Before the scale told me I gained three pounds, I looked in the mirror and actually liked the way I looked, I was in a great mood and ready to start the day! But AFTER,  I was disappointed, sad, felt really gross, even put on some super baggy clothes to mask the three pounds. But WHY?  Why did this number upset me... THAT was the question?

I started thinking and it was a mix of a couple things. Call me crazy,  judge all you want. I guarantee you at some point of your life have gone through this. 

1. I was upset because LOOSING WEIGHT IS HARD... and I am very upset I now have to start a new five pound weight loss goal which will take at least two to three weeks.

 2. 140lb is A LOT closer to 139lb which is in the 130's!! Versus 145 which is rounded to 150 which would now be in the 150 's. Crazy?! I KNOW!  BUT it was a thought in my head!!

3. Lastly, I had a play date/group meeting scheduled and these ladies last saw me weighing in at 142... ahhhhhh???!!!

     WALA!!!!  THAT was it!! The real reason I was sad!!! Having someone see me heavier                         than before, even if JUST three pounds, is terrifying for me...

I know some of you are like what in the WORLD?  BUT when you grow up your entire life hearing," Oh you look heavier, fatter, bigger, than the last time I saw you," It AFFECTS YOU!!!

People don't understand the consequences of their comments and judgements upon other people. Those things hurt so much growing up that now, I am literally scared of gaining weight. I recognize this issue. I would never ever let it escalate to something greater. I DON'T let it stop me from eating, and it doesn't even cause me to yearn EXTREME dieting methods. It just keeps me aware of what my body is doing and always pushing me to improve.

In that aspect being OVERLY CRITICAL is really not that bad?! I kind of encourage being on your toes and recognizing your body BUT I do not condone negative self talk and being sad at the scale!  Which is something I am working very hard at!!!

 I love being a positive person,  I try to promote positivity in everything I do, expecially in weight loss and this journey! It should be about being HEALTHY versus skinny and we should focus on living happily, versus just caring about what we look like. 

BUT I would be a phony if I told you I didn't care about it somewhat!  I would be a phony if I told you that I didn't worry about what others thought and I would be a phony if I told you I didn't care about the scale!

 But I would also be lying if I told you I wasn't PROACTIVELY working on making all those things back ground noise to simply LIVING HEALTHY and being happy with myself! THAT for me is the WHOLE point of this journey! To FEEL good... to be a woman comfortable in her own skin...

I love this poster. It says exactly how I feel. I am obsessed with becoming a woman comfortable in her skin! And that obsession as long as it's a HEALTH Y balanced one that doesn't cause you harm or to have a disease is actually GREAT motovation. I hope that being this candid helps you get through your struggles because we all have them.

Love you for reading,
Fatfreevee

PLEASE SHARE, FOLLOW and COMMENT!