tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38937591946232788292024-03-13T06:15:33.367-07:00Dear Curvy...Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-69501961313111951242012-08-10T09:08:00.002-07:002012-08-10T09:08:45.579-07:00Mani Mania!I've kind of become obsessed with nail art recently, and I wanted to start a new blog feature showing off my manicures each week. To do this, I figured I'd start with a bigger post of the manicures I have pictures of, and keep in mind these are taken before I cleaned up the edges (which I will be doing for all my manis before I share pictures from now on). So, allons-y!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Colorblocked with some star stickers</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.imgur.com/oc3CE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://i.imgur.com/oc3CE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fishtail accent nail</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.imgur.com/mtdyK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i.imgur.com/mtdyK.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Meownicure made with temporary tattoos</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.imgur.com/V7VE2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://i.imgur.com/V7VE2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So there we are, my most recent nail art triumphs! I think I'll be posting these on Mani Monday every week. Thanks for reading!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
-Andi</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-31610890949078302272012-07-21T17:30:00.001-07:002012-07-21T17:30:33.407-07:00"It's been a very volatile year!" "...In the stock market?" "Yeah, sure."Wow, so this month has been insane. So much good and so much bad happening around me all at once. My grandmother and step-uncle passed away. My grandmother's death is still really devastating to me at times. I'm so confused about it, it's hard to believe that someone who was once so vital, can quickly turn into a delusional shell, and then just...fade away. Her passing was beautiful, mom laid pansies on her chest. They were her favorite flower, and the last thing she planted in her garden before she got really sick. It looked way too much like she was just sleeping. I named my doula business after her, I think she'd like that.<br />
<br />
Speaking of my doula stuff, I had an interview with a local hospital about a new volunteer doula program they're starting! It sounds like a great opportunity, I'm actually going there again tomorrow to do some orientation stuff. I also started a <a href="http://franklinbirth.blogspot.com/">blog</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/franklinbirth">facebook</a> page for my business, so check them out!<br />
<br />
Iris started walking and has two teeth now! She's too big, I want her to be this age forever.<br />
<br />
We'll be moving soon, mid-August. I'm 90% sure I know where, but who knows what Nate has to say about that. He keeps changing his mind. The place I like has a pool, playground, tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts and a fitness center with a sauna! I'd love to be able to start exercising, but that way even if I don't I can sit in the sauna and relax and come back all sweaty and say I did (just kidding!)<br />
<br />
I learned how to crochet, it's a lot easier than knitting, but knitting is prettier. I'm not sure which I like more because of that, it's almost a toss-up.<br />
<br />
I started playing <a href="http://www.amnesiagame.com/">Amnesia: The Dark Descent</a>, and then just....nope. Too scary without Nate here! So I started playing <a href="http://www.swordandsworcery.com/">Sword and Sworcery</a> instead. Wow! Amazing game! Try it out, it's available on just about every system except the Virtual Boy! Also I purchased both games in the <a href="http://www.humblebundle.com/">Humble Bundle</a>, which I've talked about <a href="http://dearcurvy.blogspot.com/2012/06/hey-just-some-quick-indie-developer.html">before</a>. They're worth watching as well.<br />
<br />
I'm going to try and push my limits as far as blogging goes, because I feel I've been unreliable. I'm going to try to actually use my social media accounts (twitter, tumblr etc) and blog here or on <a href="http://franklinbirth.blogspot.com/">Franklin Birth and Prenatal</a> every day, alternating days. Keep up with me, won't you?Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-40007251386055748552012-06-24T14:24:00.000-07:002012-06-24T14:24:22.915-07:00It's Allliiiiivvvveeeeeee!!!!I swear I haven't left you all, my laptop screen has begun malfunctioning so posts may be infrequent for a while until we get at least one of our home computers functioning. Just a quick update as far as that goes! Hope to write more soon!Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-69145583446940073662012-06-06T11:16:00.000-07:002012-06-06T11:16:53.335-07:00Big Fat Summer ChallengeI'm thinking I'll do Jasifer's Lions Club's <a href="http://www.jasiferlionsclub.com/2012/06/big-fat-summer-challenge.html">Big Fat Summer Challenge</a>, just to push my comfort level a bit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://oi46.tinypic.com/fxx7vl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="http://oi46.tinypic.com/fxx7vl.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image via-<a href="http://www.jasiferlionsclub.com/2012/06/big-fat-summer-challenge.html">Jasifer's Lions Club</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The challenge runs through July 31st, and she's running a contest on her blog (visit <a href="http://www.jasiferlionsclub.com/2012/06/big-fat-summer-challenge.html">here</a> for details) for who has the best outfits. Go join in the fun! I'm excited for some like the "Hi-Lo" challenge, but I won't lie, some of these sound really daunting to me. I'm 4' 11" so the "maxi skirt or dress" makes me think I'll be swimming in fabric, and don't even get me started on the cropped top! However, I will persevere (and maybe the cropped top challenge will motivate me to finally get off the couch!) How about you guys? Which challenge seems the scariest? Which would you enjoy tackling the most?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-84389929945412262622012-06-04T15:05:00.000-07:002012-06-04T15:05:00.969-07:00Fatkini or No?GabiFresh has brought a lot of attention to the fatkini lately, and it's a welcome change! I feel like for so long the public opinion on the whole has been that bikinis are a thin person commodity, but the reality is that different bodies wear clothes differently. Does different mean any less attractive? Realistically it shouldn't. Some bikinis (and other items of clothing) that have been designed for plus-sized women would look awful on a lot of straight sized women, so why would we expect a woman with an ample bosom to feel comfortable in a string bikini top? That's what this trend comes down to honestly, comfort. By all means, if you do not feel comfortable exposing that much of your body in a bikini, then don't. Modesty is not a "fat person only" emotion.However, if you have the courage to feel confident in one of the most revolutionary modern swimwear designs available then do it! Why? Because if we desexualize our own bodies, media will continue to. Being plus doesn't make you less of a woman, so why should you hide your assets while others flaunt theirs? Personally, I wear a swimdress (which I recently noticed is much longer now that I'm not pregnant.)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/535721_10150916191042235_547806453_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/535721_10150916191042235_547806453_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I purchased it at walmart, when I was in a much lower place with my self-esteem. I don't plan on replacing it anytime soon, due to lack of cash, but when I do replace it, I believe I will be making the move to a "fatkini". I love my curves, and so does my husband, and those are really the only two opinions that matter. My final word: if a bikini, or slinky club dress, or tube top, or sheer blouse is what makes you feel sexy, then wear it! Confidence is the best accessory!</div>Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-67385695166337379522012-06-03T08:49:00.000-07:002012-06-03T08:49:21.408-07:00PinterestAre you on Pinterest yet? Why not? It is eye-candy galore! Check out these neat Pinterest finds.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://media-cache8.pinterest.com/upload/210472982555461905_cAjqPPCK_f.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="133" /><a href="http://media-cache4.pinterest.com/upload/21603273182885544_3ZotYahD_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://media-cache4.pinterest.com/upload/21603273182885544_3ZotYahD_f.jpg" width="154" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/46302702389106690_4sR6bjMw_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/46302702389106690_4sR6bjMw_f.jpg" width="160" /></a> <a href="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/246642517062806633_Q5PDKqs0_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/246642517062806633_Q5PDKqs0_f.jpg" width="297" /></a><a href="http://media-cache1.pinterest.com/upload/8796161742290734_q0ILllYZ_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache1.pinterest.com/upload/8796161742290734_q0ILllYZ_f.jpg" width="252" /></a><a href="http://media-cache8.pinterest.com/upload/16395986113973088_FtTGsPTw_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache8.pinterest.com/upload/16395986113973088_FtTGsPTw_f.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<a href="http://media-cache8.pinterest.com/upload/210261876322356373_uBtxjSe9_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache8.pinterest.com/upload/210261876322356373_uBtxjSe9_f.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/219972763019485569_QqDGyIKC_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/219972763019485569_QqDGyIKC_f.jpg" width="213" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i><br /></i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>1. Pineapple Flowers-<a href="http://annies-eats.com/2011/02/28/how-to-make-dried-pineapple-flowers/">Annie's Eats</a> / 2. Almond and Berry Floral Cake-<a href="http://www.lisahubbard.com/photos/portfolio/food/#119">Lisa Hubbard Photography</a> / 3. Braided Bun- <a href="http://thebeautydepartment.com/2011/06/pin-it-up-girl/">The Beauty Department</a> / 4. Sock Bun- <a href="http://www.mythirtyspot.com/2011/12/sock-bun-and-sock-bun-curls-tutorial.html">My Thirty Spot</a> / 5. Weekday Brunch Bag- <a href="https://www.obaz.com/game/product/9369/9168">Obaz.com</a> / 6. Ombre Tights- <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/95154981/bzr-ombre-tights-in-fuschian-violet?ref=v1_other_2">BZRshop</a> / 7. Cute Outfit Idea-<a href="http://whatwouldanerdwear.blogspot.com/2011/05/mind-over-mesh-shorts.html">What Would a Nerd Wear</a> / 8. Sweet Cardi- <a href="http://www.francescascollections.com/product/sorbet+cardi.do?sortby=ourPicks">Francesca's Collections</a></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
See what I mean? So many beautiful things to pin until I have the millions I need to buy them. Not only that but wonderful recipe ideas, and practical life suggestions. Follow me, won't you?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/andrealeeanne/"><img alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" height="28" src="https://a248.e.akamai.net/passets.pinterest.com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/about/buttons/follow-me-on-pinterest-button.png" width="169" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>All pins referenced here can be found on my boards.</i></div>Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-1124068823131021032012-06-01T15:13:00.002-07:002012-06-01T15:14:19.246-07:00The Humble Bundle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/zwANFc7D1ac?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hey, just some quick indie developer love here guys. It seems the creators of<span style="background-color: white;"> <em style="line-height: 21px; zoom: 1;"><a href="http://www.amnesiagame.com/">Amnesia: The Dark Descent</a></em><span style="line-height: 21px; zoom: 1;">, </span><em style="line-height: 21px; zoom: 1;"><a href="http://limbogame.org/">LIMBO</a></em><span style="line-height: 21px;">, </span><em style="line-height: 21px; zoom: 1;"><a href="http://www.psychonauts.com/">Psychonauts</a></em><span style="line-height: 21px;">, </span><em style="line-height: 21px; zoom: 1;"><a href="http://www.swordandsworcery.com/">Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP</a></em><span style="line-height: 21px;">; and </span><em style="line-height: 21px; zoom: 1;"><a href="http://supergiantgames.com/?page_id=242">Bastion</a> </em><span style="line-height: 21px; zoom: 1;">have teamed up with <a href="http://www.childsplaycharity.org/">Child's Play</a> (an amazing charity run by the guys of <a href="http://www.penny-arcade.com/">Penny Arcade</a>) to sell their games (and game soundtracks) in a "Name-Your-Price-Bundle</span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">" format, and you decide what portion of that goes to charity! On top of all that, the games are available for Mac, Windows and Linux!! Any price over a cent is accepted, but we should show the guys some love right? <a href="https://www.humblebundle.com/">Go there now and pick it all up!</a></span></span>Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-83487064616397646712012-06-01T00:00:00.000-07:002012-06-01T19:12:20.932-07:00Where I Came From<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvKa8ItOx4WRt0PJU7M23obJY7Npb6rfoChcH6KXfWB-DqmA0V-87XfhI0rh3NPBpqQtzcRtZIQ84FePHD2kTKh3i4X3JczvUWFcxs_kLptrphMsio9pNGGL-moWhOjeOLd40zjJSR7c/s1600/SavedPicture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvKa8ItOx4WRt0PJU7M23obJY7Npb6rfoChcH6KXfWB-DqmA0V-87XfhI0rh3NPBpqQtzcRtZIQ84FePHD2kTKh3i4X3JczvUWFcxs_kLptrphMsio9pNGGL-moWhOjeOLd40zjJSR7c/s400/SavedPicture.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's important to remember where you come from. The above picture is what made me who I am today. When I was ten, I was in a car accident. We were on our way home to Iowa from vacation in Oklahoma, visiting my Aunt and Uncle. My step-dad's boss told him he needed to either be back the following day or find a new job. My parents had taken turns driving, but my mom handled most of it due to my dad needing to be "work ready". We made it to Kansas, at sometime after six in the morning, and my mom fell asleep after driving all night. We crossed a bridge, and she started driving toward the outside edge. My step-dad woke up and swerved the wheel toward the middle railing. My memory of the many retellings is a bit fuzzy at this point, but basically the van ran into a guard rail which sliced through the right side of the vehicle. On the left side of the van sat my mom, six-month-old sister, and four-year-old brother. On the right, my step-dad, grandma, and I. Nobody on the left side of the vehicle was harmed physically, however my brother soon after talked to my grandma about the desire to become superman and lift the rubble off me and I'm sure in deeper talks you could find he was more deeply affected than that.<br />
<br />
My mother still feels a plethora of emotions based on that day. It's hard to tell what she's thinking, but the main two I've seen are guilt, and gratefulness. This is understandable, but wholly unnecessary. The day the accident happened, is the day I began my unending journey to being the best I can be. Everyday is another step, sometimes forwards and sometimes backwards, but whichever direction I go I know it's what I need in the long run. My journey began when I was told I wouldn't be able to walk again, and I decided that I would. After months of therapy, and years of practice, I returned to a normal life free of crutches and stair-climbers. I blossomed, and participated in cheerleading, and school plays, and even tennis. Despite my moanings soon after the wreck that nobody would love me because of how my leg looked, I fell "in love" time and time again, and actually just got married.<br />
<br />
I promise myself everyday now that this is the body I have, and I need to love it. As long as I'm eating well and exercising, then this is the best I can be. I didn't used to feel this way, in my past I've battled with various eating disorders and compulsions, but I still remember the first body-promise I made to myself. After the accident I promised myself I was never allowed to dislike my legs, because I should be lucky to have them at all. I've never once broken this promise. I could spend all day listing the imperfections in my body, but my legs would never be mentioned. Why? Firstly, ten-year-old me was right. I am lucky to still have my legs. Yes, my condition has impaired me in more than one way. I spent a year and a half battling a bone infection, which resulted in my pinkie toe being amputated. I have severe mobility issues which affect my ability to exercise. My severed nerve causes spazms frequently, and I have to wear a brace which does not allow for much choice in foot wear. All that being said, I can still go on a walk with my husband, chase my son around the park, and dance with my daughter. Even more than that, the accident provided me with strength and endurance. I've had a lot of rough patches in my life, but because of going through my recovery I have an ingrained understanding of the phrase "this too, shall pass." It also led me to the belief that beauty has broader definitions than "tall, thin, and tan".<br />
<br />
My scar my not be what I came into the world with, but it will definitely be there when I leave. Honestly, I don't want it to go. It's a constant reminder that I am different, and because of that I am strong. The pain I went through because of the accident motivated me to push through my daughter's birth as I repeated to myself "Hey you, we've been through worse." I try my hardest to apply how I feel about my leg to how I feel about the rest of me. Sometimes it doesn't work, but usually it does. My hair will always be frizzy, but it will also always be mine. As will my butt, and back, and stomach and arms, so why not roll with it. Not everyone agrees with this, but once everyone else has to wear my skin then I'll start counting their votes. You are you. Be beautiful, however you need to be, and rock what you got!<br />
<br />Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-83340767608151139182012-05-30T10:40:00.000-07:002012-05-30T10:40:59.366-07:00And The World Keeps Turning<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey followers, it's been a while. I've had some big changes too. See you again soon!
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLj5Irv7Esru4tEoOhSeqXatKdDjWHXFGrDrBeUUzwWb6x_jD-1IxKYRK5q5C4H6M2CgGiSZT3QS6u_tqVY8OQsebcVsQq4r3G3No7jyQp19P0VpPULOk6XnVCYj7K9dwrQ5kZxdhj_fg/s1600/SavedPicture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLj5Irv7Esru4tEoOhSeqXatKdDjWHXFGrDrBeUUzwWb6x_jD-1IxKYRK5q5C4H6M2CgGiSZT3QS6u_tqVY8OQsebcVsQq4r3G3No7jyQp19P0VpPULOk6XnVCYj7K9dwrQ5kZxdhj_fg/s200/SavedPicture.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQaU2BAP9nMOf0s869BJwzYi5PF10cgjABWMVyHcbmaDL2aSA1cbdzEOzh72DFeuRmXcUfKX0sWgwIkzESav7wVAsXG__ngOeIbrfBw1VEdi2u1QcTl_02ay9i4zfRJ5ae0lyAuCIFtc/s1600/165827_10150908710687235_508992234_9744125_1229244839_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQaU2BAP9nMOf0s869BJwzYi5PF10cgjABWMVyHcbmaDL2aSA1cbdzEOzh72DFeuRmXcUfKX0sWgwIkzESav7wVAsXG__ngOeIbrfBw1VEdi2u1QcTl_02ay9i4zfRJ5ae0lyAuCIFtc/s200/165827_10150908710687235_508992234_9744125_1229244839_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Iris Sakura, our newest addition</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/536048_10150908775532235_508992234_9744404_1388878573_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/536048_10150908775532235_508992234_9744404_1388878573_n.jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash2/156232_10150908779532235_884343243_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash2/156232_10150908779532235_884343243_n.jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/564273_10150908778492235_508992234_9744432_614240795_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/564273_10150908778492235_508992234_9744432_614240795_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/550576_10150908779607235_2125995044_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/550576_10150908779607235_2125995044_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>A beautiful union.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/535721_10150916191042235_547806453_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/535721_10150916191042235_547806453_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/292275_10150913244677235_812450442_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/292275_10150913244677235_812450442_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fzfmW4XgricIE0rijKGXHQOPWHgZkwahQnPyR1kXBiSYJMx-nMlUXSW3tBZnw2fXAkwDiDZCjxcB24mYhwhkaG38JIF-olNRkgIBQx1Z40EWZWlLfs4u9msBG771sjDqKLtBSeuBZQc/s1600/mypic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fzfmW4XgricIE0rijKGXHQOPWHgZkwahQnPyR1kXBiSYJMx-nMlUXSW3tBZnw2fXAkwDiDZCjxcB24mYhwhkaG38JIF-olNRkgIBQx1Z40EWZWlLfs4u9msBG771sjDqKLtBSeuBZQc/s200/mypic.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>A big brother.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/555412_10150916191097235_508992234_9772241_1018204560_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/555412_10150916191097235_508992234_9772241_1018204560_n.jpg" width="150" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>And a bright, new outlook.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'll be able to post more often now, do try to keep up <3</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-36139026050085786482011-01-16T12:02:00.001-08:002011-01-16T12:02:57.760-08:00Short HiatusI haven't been feeling good so Dear Curvy will be taking a short break until I'm doing better, no longer than a week though I promise!!Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-11078849894218529482011-01-08T12:20:00.000-08:002011-01-08T21:49:42.794-08:00Who I Will BecomeI made a list today of what words I would use to describe my ideal self, and I wanted to share them with you. I'm going to fit all these words by the end of this year, and hopefully before then. The only person that can make me a better person is me, I know that now and I'm on my way to doing that. So here is the real me, the hidden me, the me that's going to shine out from the darkness and rise from the ashes.<br /><br />-Athletic (Runner, biker, yogi)<br />-Healthy food eater<br />-Voluptuous, not obese<br />-Organized<br />-A great mom<br />-Clean<br />-Fashionably dressed<br />-Educated<br />-Responsible<br /><br />That is my list, and that is who I will become.Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-33951730956206113662011-01-08T12:14:00.000-08:002011-01-08T12:19:36.057-08:00Easy Breakfast SmoothieThis smoothie is such a great way to start the day, and the yogurt will help your digestion all day long! It only takes a minute to prepare, and it's such a yummy drink!<br /><br />Ingredients<br />1 peeled whole orange<br />1 peeled banana, broken into pieces<br />As much yogurt as you like (Any flavor, but I went with vanilla)<br /><br />Dump them all in you blender and turn it on to the "Liquefy" setting until you like the consistency.<br /><br />That's it! That's all there is, barely any work at all for a great healthy start to your day!Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-89529456766758291092011-01-07T21:19:00.000-08:002011-01-07T21:30:13.851-08:00Out of a Size 14 and Into the GraveI've posted recently about my surprise weight gain, and it's increasingly difficult for me to resist the urges to slip into old habits. Every time I feel my shirt tug tighter than it used to, I want to skip a few days of eating, every time I eat a meal I want to hunch over my toilet bowl. I don't even need to use my fingers to throw up anymore, I can just flex my stomach muscles and my years of practice spew out the offending calories. One thing hasn't changed. I'm binging. I can't avoid it. I love good food, and it's in the house everywhere. It's not good for me, it's just good tasting. <br /><br />My binging is getting worse and worse with the discovery of my actual weight. I've eaten 3 bags of chips by myself this week. It's disgusting, and it's wrong, and it's so easy. One serving become two, two becomes lunch, lunch becomes a shopping trip for more chips. I wasn't lying about the purpose of this blog. I love real women, and curvy bodies, and that's how I want my body to be. However, I want my body to be that way at a healthy weight for me. 184 pounds is not that weight. This blog is about confidence at any size, and beauty in every shape, but it is not about promoting unhealthy lifestyles or obesity. Everyone should exercise, every day if they can. Everyone should eat healthfully, with big piles of veggies, and lean proteins, and whole grains. I need to do this, and I'm scared for what will happen if I don't.<br /><br />My years of eating disorders have instilled a primal fear in me. If I hit 200 lbs, I might have a break down. I don't know what I would do. It's not reasonable for me to be scared of that number, anything above 160 lbs is not good for me. I have asthma that set on severely when I hit 160 lbs. Before then, it was under control and only affected me in extreme heat or cold while I was exercising. Now it's so bad that I don't even know if I *can* exercise anymore. I need to change. I need to change for myself and my future. The pressure is on. Tonight is the night that I make my change.Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-73879613176042272982011-01-05T17:59:00.000-08:002011-01-05T18:17:03.701-08:00184I suffered from a lot of eating disorders, for a lot of years, and now I'm done. I've dealt with anorexia, bulimia, a combination of both, binging, purging, chew spit, monitoring calories, monitoring fat, eating everything, and not eating anything, all because of my weight. Even when I was 105 lbs, I was too fat.I'm finally making myself end this cycle. Today, at Wal-mart, there was a scale out on the floor. "I haven't weighed myself in a while, maybe I should." I thought to myself. I tapped the scale with my foot, and I remembered the days not so long ago when I would weigh myself between bites of food, then every 10 minutes or so when I wasn't eating (this is why we don't have a scale in the house). <br /><br />I stepped on lightly with one foot, then all the way on with the other. Tenetively, I waited, wonder what the magical square would determine my worth was. How confident would I be today? Would I regret the chips I had for breakfast? The little black bars blinked on the screen. "--", "--", "--", like it was deciding if I deserved it's blessing, "Thinking. Thinking. Thinking." Finally they formed a number, a number I didn't like. 184. That means I've gained back all the weight I worked so hard to lose, plus 5 lbs. Here at Dear Curvy, we love all women in all sizes. We do not like a lack of health because of pure laziness. That's how I've been living. My first thought, when I saw the dread "184", was to vomit. Then and there, in the Wal-mart bathroom, then try again. This was the old me, the me who had (and still hasn't deleted) over 400 "thinspo" images on her laptop. <br /><br />Then "N" came up to me, and smiled, and saw that I was weighing myself. "What is it? You look like you've been losing weight!" he said happily and genuinely excited. I explained the situation to him, and what urges I'd felt. He frowned. I knew what I wanted to do was wrong, and it made me sad inside to know I'd worried him. I won't puke, I will eat like normal, and try to add healthier items into my menu, I will exercise every day, but I won't fall into the old destructive cycle I had. Today is the change, where I care about being healthy, not thin. I know 184 is not my number, I think 148 is a closer guess. My dream number used to be 82. 82 was the number because I was underweight for my height, but not emaciated. I wanted to be so light that I could walk on snow and not ruin it's beauty with my footprints, like the pro-ana saying goes. <br /><br />Today, I'm not gross, morbidly obese, or damaged. Today I am taking control of a situation, before it becomes a problem because that's what's best for me and my family. Today, I won, and the monster from the past retreated to it's lair. Hopefully, next time I have the opportunity to step on a scale, it won't return.Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-58310675901232461072011-01-02T12:09:00.000-08:002011-01-02T12:30:03.074-08:00Things I Love-MauricesFor this week's "Things I Love" we're going to focus on what's trendy now. I see black, grays, and silvers, along with quirky pairings of girly and masculine touches. I'm also featuing a store that's a favorite of mine, Maurices, which provides cute and fashionable items, in a variety of sizes and prices.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">1. Burnout Cardiwrap</span><br />In vest or cardigan form, light airy wraps are a must have right now. I love this gray, it's moody, but still bright, and the pointed hem will look amazing on a pear shaped body.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://maur.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMAUR1-8744089v275.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 370px; height: 535px;" src="http://maur.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMAUR1-8744089v275.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.maurices.com/product/index.jsp?productId=10752875">Available for $32.00 from Maurices</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">2. Lace and Studd Tank Top</span><br /><br />This tank elegantly flaunts feminine lace alongside manly brushstorkes of heather gray, and the swipe of studs glam up the shoulder, which is to die for.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://maur.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMAUR1-9000874v275.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 370px; height: 535px;" src="http://maur.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMAUR1-9000874v275.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.maurices.com/product/index.jsp?productId=10918974#">$30.00 from Maurices</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">3.Ruched Black Skinny Pants</span><br /><br />The black completes our color scheme, while the slim silhouette of the jeans adds a sexy edge to the look. I love the ruched ankles, they seem like they would accent a great heel.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://maur.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMAUR1-9119944v275.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 370px; height: 535px;" src="http://maur.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMAUR1-9119944v275.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.maurices.com/product/index.jsp?productId=10979608">$39.00 from Maurices</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">4. Peep Toe Ruffled Bootie</span><br /><br />Okay so I couldn't resist. This outfit needed a pop of color, but could you resist these heels? I absolutely adore them! I, myself, can't wear heels, but I greatly envy those who can. I have such a shoe fetish, it's entirely unfair. You though, you buy these amazing heels!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://maur.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMAUR1-9059420v275.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 370px; height: 535px;" src="http://maur.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMAUR1-9059420v275.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.maurices.com/product/index.jsp?productId=10955130">$39.00 from Maurices</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">5. Mixed Bangle Bracelets</span><br /><br />There are a ton of wonderful bracelet sets on Maurices' website, in a variety of colors, but these were my favorite. I love the size contrast, so color pizazz takes a backseat to this classic black and silver set.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://maur.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMAUR1-8247779v275.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 370px; height: 535px;" src="http://maur.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMAUR1-8247779v275.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.maurices.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4334678">$16.00 from Maurices</a>Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-69515780902842062442011-01-02T11:35:00.000-08:002011-01-02T11:55:01.098-08:00Curvy LoveAs a curvy woman, I have self esteem issues. I am aware that this is not uncommon, but I wanted to share mine. I know my fiance, "N", loves me entirely, at whatever weight I am. I know this because when I was pregnant I gained 30 lbs. Many curvy women have beautifully shaped bodies, with wide hips, gracious thighs, and the slightest hint of a belly. Me? I have a short, stout, snowball of a body. I have stubby legs, a big belly, a small waist, and a bouquet of backrolls. It's difficult for me to feel sexy without hiding under clothes that accentuate my shape. I've learned that if you shirt is the exact right balance of loose and clingy, with stiff fabric, I can pull it off like I'm just well endowed with a perfect hourglass, but when there's no curtain of patterned polyester and distracting accessories it's hard for me to not feel like a slug. My fiance is the cure for that. <br /><br />It's so refreshing to be with a guy who doesn't pressure me into being someone I'm not. I've had some bad boyfriends before. One past baddie hit on a slim friend of mine while I was walking 5 feet in front of him! His excuse later on was that he thought I couldn't hear him. I had another nefarious beau tell me that I should continue my years of bulimia without worry, because dentists could fix about anything that happened to my teeth and it was "just working so great". So you can see, dear readers, why "N" is such a welcome change. Last night, we in bed cuddling before going to sleep, and he was doing the unimaginable. Try, dear readers, not to freak out. He was...caressing my back fat. <br /><br />What? No freak out? Okay well it was positively earthshattering to me. I asked him "Why are you doing that?" and he replied "Because your curves are sexy." My curves? Did you hear that? He called one of my rolls a "curve". It's not a curve! It's disgusting! It's a marshmallow deposit under my skin. It's a thing which just doesn't belong on a female body! A curve, the nerve of him, mocking me like that! So I replied "No, it's back fat, it's gross." and pushed his hand away. In that second I realized, by hating myself, I had rejected his love. How awful our self hate can be, yeah? I'd always thought it was emotion I suffered through alone, but no. This was something that had in that second, cut into both of us. So I put his hand back, and apologized, and followed with "Why do you like it?"<br /><br />He smiled, and slid his hand up and down the side of my body, and said "Because it's soft, and it defines your waist, and it's kind of...elegant." I couldn't believe the words he was saying. Elegant? I've never heard any of the tell tale signs of obesity described like that. The rest of the night, until we fell asleep proceeded like that. He put his hand on my stomach, and said that it was "cute" and "kissable", he touched an area of my arm I'm not fond of and called it "delicate". As I fell asleep in his arms I realized: My body will always have problem areas to me, but it will never have any blemishes to those who truly love me.Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-23195177819906175722010-11-23T18:04:00.000-08:002010-11-23T19:03:45.582-08:00Things I LoveSometimes, you see something you just adore. Something you need in your life, almost more than breath itself. The things listed in this post...are not quite that important. They're still pretty great though, so it's time to share them with you!<br /><br />1. Glitter Unicorn Necklace<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://shanalogic.com/item_images/large/4961_cla_unicorn_full.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 350px; height: 350px;" src="https://shanalogic.com/item_images/large/4961_cla_unicorn_full.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a href="http://shanalogic.com/item.php?item_id=3217&page=2&category_id=126">$12 from shanalogic.com</a><br />Check out this total cutie pegacorn! I have a soft spot for ponies of all kinds, rainbows, and glitter and this guy fits all three so perfectly!!<br /><br /><br />2. Blue Sequin Tank Top<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://img.hottopic.com/is/image/HotTopic/575754_hi?wid=500&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90&op_sharpen=1&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 750px;" src="http://img.hottopic.com/is/image/HotTopic/575754_hi?wid=500&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90&op_sharpen=1&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.0,0.0,0,0&iccEmbed=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.torrid.com/torrid/NewArrivals/Tops/Blue-Sequin-Tank-Top-575754.jsp">$29.99 from Torrid.com</a><br />Glitter again guys, I know! What can I say? I love sparkles! I love all the hues in this tank, and the shape is sublime! Can you imagine the light catching perfectly on all those sequins on a snowy night? Of course you'd need a sweater too, so....<br /><br />3. Drapeneck Cozy Cardi<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7PopfnHa4TvI4y6FId4vaPVwwyHDLdXdMKa-mW1uQzZvIBdjvCcZ30wIA3KRDpEE5JL-tTzLi-2uufAIbcTUKDuFMWeuEeK3f4uw2D2uCws5n_-CrhUFsj9ypcWcvodlWK-JS_FwKgg/s1600/dnbpi.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 246px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7PopfnHa4TvI4y6FId4vaPVwwyHDLdXdMKa-mW1uQzZvIBdjvCcZ30wIA3KRDpEE5JL-tTzLi-2uufAIbcTUKDuFMWeuEeK3f4uw2D2uCws5n_-CrhUFsj9ypcWcvodlWK-JS_FwKgg/s320/dnbpi.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542940588630633858" /></a><br /><a href="http://fashionbug.lanebryant.com/tops/sweaters/drapeneck-cozy-cardigan/15148c15224p72490/index.pro?Mpper=16&Mrsavf=Brand&Mrsavf=Size&Mrsavf=Color&Mpos=1&pageSize=16&Mrnam=Special+sizes&Mrval=Plus&Mreft=1&Mstor=1&Mpg=SEARCH%2BNAV&Mrsaa=*&Mcatn=Sweaters&Mcatpn=Tops&Mcatg=category_root&Mcatp=cat_15148%401&Mcat=15224%401">$24.99 from fashionbug.com</a><br />This cardigan looks snuggly, swingy, and soft! Those are all the things a stylish sweater should be!! It would look lovely over the sequin tank above or even just a cozy t-shirt! Put a skinny belt over the top? Tres chic!<br /><br />4. You Never Forget Your First Doctor<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/images/products/zoom/your_first_doctor.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 520px;" src="http://www.thinkgeek.com/images/products/zoom/your_first_doctor.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/tshirts-apparel/unisex/popculture/988c/">$15.99-18.99 from thinkgeek.com</a><br />I would wear it over this comfy t-shirt. The ninth doctor was my first, but 10 is sublime. **nerdgasm** Any doctor's companion would be proud to wear this amazing tee!<br /><br />5. Twilight Woods Fragrance Set<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bbw.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pBBW1-6082139v194.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 194px; height: 261px;" src="http://bbw.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pBBW1-6082139v194.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=4264665&cp=2484525">Currently $10.50-29.50 at bathandbodyworks.com</a><br />I'm not a huge Twilight fan, and I'm pretty sure based on the product design this was meant to appeal to fans of the genre. I'm still in love with this cozy, fall scent! It makes me feel like wrapping myself up in a fuzzy blanket and sipping chai tea. This scent comes in a variety of products and luckily this store always has sales.<br /><br />So go out and stimulate our economy while looking smokin hot!!<br /><br />Disclaimer: This was supposed to happen on Sunday but I lost track, so just an fyi the next posting this style will appear on Sunday.Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-20094341518619212102010-11-21T08:34:00.000-08:002010-11-23T19:35:58.599-08:00Confi-DanceI love to dance. When I dance, I feel sexy, and talented, and beautiful, and confident. Confidence is a huge deal for me, because for so long I've worn ill fitting clothes, sports bras that don't really do anything, and skipped make-up and styling my hair on a daily basis because I didn't think it would make me look any better. I assumed people would look at my body and think I'm disgusting no matter what, so why would I put make-up on a pig? When I decided I didn't want to feel this way anymore, I needed something to force me into being proud of how I look. <br /><br /> I used to always put music on while I prepared for the day, and that's what started it. I straightened my bangs, put on the best sports bra I had (note: buy a normal bra), a black tank top with glittery rhinestone clasps, a pair of jeans that hugged my butt, and <a href="http://www.dancewearsolutions.com/shoes/sneakers/WL6029.aspx?utm_source=googlebase&utm_medium=datafeed">the best shoes in the world</a>. I made a quick playlist of my favorite girly, pop songs with a great beat, and I pushed play. For maybe 20 minutes I just danced around the house, and sang. And it was silly. It was ridiculous. It was entirely humiliating, or it would've been if anyone were watching. It was just me though, and it made me realize that I am a pretty great dancer. Could I be that excited to shake my butt in public yet? I don't know, but I think that now, I would try. I can shake my tush just as well as any of the size four girls I see when I go out, I just have more to shake. And really, have you ever heard anybody say a little more booty is a bad thing? <br /><br /> So, get up right now, style your hair, put on a smoky eyeshadow and enough lip gloss to make glass look dull, and just dance. You are beautiful, and sexy, and when you move the joy stays with you after the playlist is over. Every step you take after that will be a catwalk strut to a sexy rhythm if you remind yourself of what you did. Because you are a superstar. You deserve to be that confident. Throw on a sassy scarf on your trip to Wal-mart! Find a pair of red tennis shoes to wear to the gym. Get an extra long super fashionable necklace and wear it to work. Find one item that you absolutely love, but have always been scared to wear, that makes you feel amazing, and buy it! Wear it when you dance every morning right after you wake up, and then slip it into your outfit somehow. Every time you see it, or touch it you'll be reminded of your fabulous moves from earlier, and then the strut starts. <br /><br /> If you're a stay-at-home mom, maybe you've fallen into the pattern I did. I'd shower if I needed to go somewhere, and wear the same shirt until it got spit up on. I'd stay in my pajamas until I needed to get the mail and I didn't care at all, then my mom told me something. It was something her grandmother told her. She said "Get up, shower, get dressed, do your make-up and hair, and make yourself look like you're going to leave the house for something important at least five days a week, and you'll feel so much better." I haven't always done it five days a week, but it does make me feel SO much more like an actual human being, and not just Mom-bot 500 Series. <br /><br /> So go dance! Go get gussied up, find your confidence item, and put on your 5 favorite songs and dance like you've never danced before. Dance with emotion, and style, and grace, and be the best, absolutely best you that you can be! Don't be embarrassed either, because someone, somewhere in the world is I'm sure at that exact moment dancing alone in their house too.Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893759194623278829.post-29687096826349212892010-11-20T18:13:00.000-08:002010-11-23T19:36:57.861-08:00Big WordsThere are a lot of big words for big girls. There are a million ways to describe us. Chunky, curvy, buxom, rubenesque, voluptuous, plus sized, big...and then there's fat. Fat is such an ugly word. What I have on my stomach? THAT is fat. Fat is what's on my arms, and my thighs, and my butt, and on the same places on every other normal person in this world. I might have a little more than other people, but I still get called beautiful. It might be in different places than it is on others, but that doesn't stop my fiance from loving me. <br /><br />I've been called fat before, and it used to hurt, but I've realized something. I am not fat, the stored calories in my body are. I am not fat. I am Andrea. It's time for me, and everyone else who's felt this way, to realize that and start to live like themselves, not how other people tell them they look. C.S. Lewis said "You don't have a soul. You have a body. You are a soul." and I entirely agree with this. <br /><br />I want to be defined by my mind, my words, how I treat others, and how I treat myself, not by the shape of my body. Yes, I am "curvy", but I'm also intelligent, caring, a great mother, sister, and friend, and an entire plethora of other word. Most of all, I am Andrea, and I'm opening my eyes every morning so proud to be who I am.Andihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10773725321741887671noreply@blogger.com0