I've been going to Weight Watchers since April and I'm losing weight, albeit slowly at times. I feel good about my choices. I'm making small, yet livable sacrifices to lose weight and now I just want to show this blog a new weight. It's coming! I'm hoping by the end of summer.
I've also been taking thyroid hormone replacements consistently for a month and a half and while I'm not sure if these aid weight loss I am noticing that my weight is not piling on as fast as it used to. My whole life, while I do have binge eating disorder, it has always seemed that my body puts on weight and holds onto it more eagerly. Just looking at food would make me gain weight. And now, it's easier not to gain. Who knows what it is, but I welcome it.
And this blog. Lord, I have a back log of photos to share, mostly food. There are days when I eat very lightly all day and then eat a large dinner and there are days when I eat dark chocolate for breakfast and days when I eat a half of a large pizza (like last night) and I want to share, but...
I've struggled with this blog. Let's be honest, I've struggled with blogging for well over a year now. I even toyed with the idea of not blogging here anymore. And at the sake of seeming full of myself/ungrateful/crazy the attention that this blog generates makes me want to hide under a rock. I didn't know this about myself, well I did, but I like to pretend I'm not as sensitive as I am. Words sting me, and they sting deep. Back when I first starting blogging, I just did it, I represented who I was becoming and I wanted to share my journey. Very few people were reading. No one expected me to be something else.
And then the readers came, more than I ever thought would stop by. And then the companies came too. My inbox filled to the gills- the product reviews, the advice, the appreciation emails and it became too much for me. This blog is not the most popular blog on the internet- that title is usually given to blogs that actually update and have a sense of humor. But, that attention and sometimes negative comments has made me want to hide away and without knowing, that is exactly what I've done.
If I don't blog, no one can comment or criticize what I eat, or how I live my life. Eventually the emails will slow down, and I the back-log of product reviews will fade away into my distant past. The truth is, is that I want to share. The good, the bad, and the ugly, but I need to develop a tougher skin in this process. I'm still learning just like everyone else and for some reason my web address "my all natural weight loss" lends to make folks think I'm some sort of nutrition expert. I have no idea what I'm doing on most subjects, most of the time. I just do. I'm okay with mistakes and learning from them and moving forward.
I've addressed my sensitivity to others and they said "just turn off the comments" but there are those who are here too, in the journey, learning and sharing and discussing in this wonderful community who I am thankful for. Those who don't send me emails saying "it is not responsible to eat vegan cookies and pretend that they are healthy" what? Are you kidding me? How did I become the surgeon general of healthful living?
What I really think is this: I think most women have eating disorders. I think most women fear food. I don't think all skinny people are healthy (a lot of them eat crap and rarely exercise). I think that the desire to overeat is a strong beast that is hard to overcome. I believe that food should not be feared, that health can be obtained with beautiful freshly made, sustainable foods even if they have full-fat cheese, butter or olive oil in them. I think that too many women think that low calorie= healthy and eat shitty tasteless food as a result. Embrace olive oil. If I avoid sugar and flour in excess, olive oil does not make me gain weight. Even if I put it on everything. I believe that counting calories is degrading. I believe that no one should eat less than 1,500 calories a day. I believe exercise is the key to happiness.
This is my blog and I'm taking it back. I do not owe anyone a reason for not updating, I do not owe anyone daily calories or my current weight (which changes as often as I change my underwear), I do not owe anyone common sense on eating cookies or sweets, I do not owe companies product reviews if their products sucked or timely reviews if it did not. This blog does not pay may bills on a regular basis, but the ads sure have helped and I am very grateful for those folks.
Thank you for reading, commenting, emailing and being lovely and supportive. This blog has given me a lot over time and I'm not giving up on it.
Wow. I am glad to hear that you are taking back your blog:) I am just an itty bitty blogger with no companies knocking on my door and, fortunately, no critical comments. For me, the readers and the comments are still a big part of my enjoyment – the community. But I firmly believe in blogging for oneself. (Unless you are indeed doing it for the money.) Why do it if it doesn’t give you something? So I love that you are getting back to doing it for you:) That said, I did wonder as I read if you would consider starting a new blog, that allowed you to get out from under the whole company following thing.
YOU GO GIRL!
I cannot tell you how closely your words reflect me and my veiwpoints and my life. Thank you for putting into words how I feel. I don’t care how often you post or what you post about, I just read your blog because I enjoy you and how you write.
welcome back! Your thoughts and opinions are something I really do enjoy reading, and its nice to know there is someone out there with the same feelings about food. Margarine? uck. Butter? Hell yes.
There is another blog I read for inspiration, 344pounds.com. Have fun with your experience and life!
Good for you!
Girl, you rock! Kudos to you for taking back your blog!!! Let the ney-sayers just say away. Poo on them! I always look forward to seeing your updates, but understand that I failed at blogging, so live your life! Share what you want, when you want!
Rock on,
georgia girl
Your entire “I Believe paragraph” is spot on with what I believe, too! And I am so happy you are taking back your blog and not listening to any negativity from haters. You are wonderful and I support you 100% in whatever you decide, but I really do enjoy your updates.
I have a little blog thing I do on the side. I do get some request from companies and even more request from people for me to link to their product. The intention was for me to have something to look back on, but if someone feels encouraged then that’s a bonus. But it’s really for ME. Glad to see you’re taking yours back, especially if it helps you in the long run.
You. Are. Awesome. Forget the haters (easier said than done) and know that there are people who are pulling for you and taking the journey with you:)
This is the first blogpost I have read of yours, and all I can say is GOOD FOR YOU!
Woooooohoooo! Go you, Lorrie!
yay yay yay yay yay yay. thank you
running out of the lurking closet to say GREAT FOR YOU.
all of it.
and to remind you that there are people cheering you on that you dont even realize….
That post was great! Thanks for sharing. I am also very sensitive but as of right now, I have very few readers on my blog. I keep wondering how it will affect me to have people notice me more.
and a great looking blog is is too! I love the photos, especially the photos of food!
Good for you! This is your blog and you can say whatever you want!! I’ve just found your blog and been reading it for a month or so and reading some old entries too. I hope that you will continue to post, despite what nay sayers may say!
I’ve been reading your blog for well over a year now, and I can totally relate to a lot of what you write about. It’s hard to eat according to everyone else’s standards. I ate a whole small pizza on July 4th! But I also eat brussel sprouts and lots of veggies and whole grains and am getting fitter by the day. I think you need to do what works for you and not let other people and what works for “them” affect you badly. It’s your blog and your body. From reading your blog I know you eat very healthy, organic local foods. So you eat pizza once in a while! If you can fit into your plan somehow and still see positive results, don’t let the haters get you down!
I just have to say, good for you!
I am a fairly new reader of yours, but you’re blog is an inspiration for me, and I am so glad you’re taking it back.
Haters will hate, but as long as you are doing what makes YOU happy, then let ‘em hate. Because at the end of the day, you’ll have won.
Damn straight- take back your blog! Screw the haters. There are lots of us here who do support you, no matter what!
Woohoo!!! You go girl! I fully agree with you! I too am sick of so many women who act as though they hate their bodies and therefore hurt their health. For a long time, I struggled with my self image. I’d starve myself, and no matter how I looked, I was never satisfied. But now I am learning to love my body, and though I make many mistakes, I’m trying my best. Food should be natural, not just under 100 calories with no fat. I think this is something we all need to realize. You’re words and blog inspire me to live a healthier life. Keep writing…….
Good for you! I just found your blog, just started my own blog since I have started a vegetarian diet. I have lost 7 lbs already. I am afraid that I may not be able to stick to it, but so far so good. I will be following your progress and cheering you on
I have been on Weight Watchers before, and it did help, but I was not able to stick to it. Yet everyone has to do what works best for them, that is why there are so many diets out there.
That’s a shame, if people have been critical about what you eat. I like your blog as it’s honest. No one should say you shouldn’t eat this or that if you’re trying to lose weight. You’re doing what you can when you can. You struggle, but you keep going, which I think is the key thing. Even little changes help. Totally agree with you about eating butter, olive oil instead of low fat rubbish.
I just found your blog today and this is the only post I’ve read so far. I just have to say, BRAVO! Be who you are, do what you do, do it when you want to and forget about what others think about it.
Well said! I’ve always loved your blog for its honesty, and this post is no different! I completely agree with you that most women have some kind of eating disorder. With a world full of people telling us what to and not to eat, how much to weigh, etc., it’s very hard not to get down if we have a seemingly “bad” day of eating or don’t make it to the gym 24/7. I know I’ve wasted a lot of time feeling guilty about stuff like that. But I’m getting better about it!
I’m so glad that you are going to continue blogging, and that you don’t let stupid people get you down. There’s always going to be someone that wants to be nasty — but really it just shows a lack of confidence in themself. Keep up the great job in all you do!
Sing it sister! I’ve been reading for a while but have never commented before. I love reading about your struggles and triumphs because I walk a similar road. Own this blog and don’t let anyone tell you how to do your stuff!
You go, girl! Take back your blog. Write whatever you want and own it. If people don’t like what you have to say, they shouldn’t read. I will continue to be a faithful reader and supporter of token fat girl!
I’m so glad you’re back! I don’t blog or read very many, but I always check yours and love your openness and honesty and unwillingness to not be any one but yourself.
An appreciative reader,
Katie
I love this. So authentic and real. Keep writing when and what you want. You really are reaching people.
I am enjoying your blog very much! I think the last commenter has good advice about narrowing down your main goals and finding mini goals to accomplish along the way. Although this is great in theory it’s easy to get sidetracked by the latest article about this and that which can get you focused on other food or exercise related topics that may not be as important to you but seem to be the “hot topic” at the moment. There are days when I just want to lose weight and will want to use every diet product to get the job done, then other days I’ll just want to eat organic and whole foods and not mind if they don’t get me the skinny body I want as long as I’m putting healthy foods in it. Then you hear that organic doesn’t really mean the foods better and back and forth until you don’t know what to think and all you want is a hamburger and french fries with a regular coke.
Keep going on your blogging journey and I’ll be right there with you!
Go girl that’s the right attitude. Many can put you down but the reality is they are jelous of your archivements. Many would like to be like you but don’t have the guts. So share who you are. Good thing you are losing weight sometimes the fast weight loss programs are harmful. Do it youer way eventually you will archieve your goal.
i love your blog and i think because its your blog you are allowed to update it whenever you want, respond to email whenever you want and ignore all the negativity because that is just bull. its your life and what ever works for you is what you need to do. congrats on taking charge and i agree no one should eat 1500 calories a day and not eat sweets. life with out desert is not life.
I think you are adorable. Your inspiring in so many ways. I just wish you would blog more. Take this as a learning lesson and try not to let negative comments bother you. Use them to make yourself stronger..
I just came across your blog yesterday, and I just wanted to let you know that I really enjoy it! I think it’s great that you are blogging about your progress and your feelings–you are reaching out to so many people and helping others with their journeys as well! Amazing work
I know the process (of weight loss AND blogging) can be hard, but keep it up! I know you can do it!
Woo hoo! Keep up the hard work and keep us updated! Way to go!!
Loving your blog, ignore bad emails just jelousy. I feel inspired. Not sure how the comments bit works this is my thrid attempt. Fingers crossed
I understand what it’s like when blogging gets tough. I’ve blogged since 2003, and there are times that I want to quit. I get frustrated with no comments, or a barrage of spam comments, or sometimes a bunch of nasty abusive ones all because I’ve taken my space to express myself. If it helps you in any way, stick with it. I find its worth it, even if just to clarify my thoughts and have a sounding board.
Good to hear you are slowly losing the pounds. I unfortunately seem to have hit a plateau as soon as I got below the 200 pound mark. Feeling a little discouraged but I am so close to my goal now- only 30 pounds left.
Hang in there, and keep writing. I stop by once a week or so to look for new posts.
Good for you! Have to say as someone thats been in the same place as you for a long time, there is definitely light at the end of the tunnel (as long as you really want it).
Food is such a comfort and is always their when you need it, but that feeling of not needing it – amazing. Its all in the way we think about it. More power to you x
J
Blogging has changed my life….Literally!
At times, my writing can be affected by others and I have to recenter and remind myself that this is my journey and I have invited them along for the ride…as support, not judges or experts.
Wishing you continued success!
Many Blessings~
Charli
aka Extant Woman
Keep it up, and more power to your weight loss. Take pictures every week and post it here…and see what they have to say…
You’re inspirational. And gorgeous! I wish you every success with your weight loss and I hope I can emulate your dedication.
Keep focusing on yourself and your goals. Trying to eat right, let alone lose weight, AND sharing your journey is hard. I hope you keep blogging. You inspire me.
Lorrie!
I am so happy that I found your blog today because I really needed to start reading a fitness/weight loss blog that’s from a real person’s perspective. You definitely described how I’ve been feeling these last few weeks in my own weight loss quest, and thank you for saying it way more eloquently than I ever could. Your integrity is wonderful, and you are definitely NOT a flake, no matter what anyone says. I might not know you, but flakes can’t possibly be this heartwarming and honest.
Take care! I’ll be around your blog quite frequently
-Shasta
Thanks for sharing your experience, It will inspire many people to achive their goals, whatever their are. In this case, isn’t an easy thing to decide to lose weight, considering how much unhealthy food is out there, but show your perseverance and your wishes to make a difference. Congratulations and keep us informed of your progress. Sorry If Im grammatically wrong..Always am I
Hi there,
I’m am reaching out to you because I have struggled forever. Hoping for your help and support with my public pledge to get fit; My goal is to be fit and healthy.
I’ve had a long journey of battling weight and after my baby, it has been hard. I’m putting a lid on the “Junk in My Trunk”. I want to be a healthy and active mom and for my little one to grow up with healthy diet and exercise habits but, it starts with me. You will see my video shows I am called to do this pledge and am for real about reaching my goal. With massive amounts of votes I can win the prize for the services of a trainer & nutritionist.
My video is, “Do the Jane Fonda”. Please click the link to vote for me: http://www.bragadoo.com/braganaire/vote/
I hope you will choose to follow my story. Please help me get the word out to and am so greatful. Also, my twitter name for you to follow my progress is @Sparkling101.
Thanks so much for your support of this!
Kristina
Thank you for continuing to write. Be sensitive , too many people in life are not. Feel the pain of negative comments and rejoice in the positive ones. That is the true being of life, the true you. YOU are learning everyday about what food means to you and that will teach others.
I have struggled with my weight all my life. I am 45 years old now and have been taking thyroid meds for about a year now. I have finally lost 50 pounds. I have changed my diet, and am walking two miles a day and doing some strenth exersize. I look much better and am off my blood presure meds now, but i have ti say my energy level is way down. you would think it would be off the charts but its not. Im wondering if my thyroid meds could be the reason for that.
I came across your blog and just wanted to let you know that you have conquered whatever eating problems you think you had.
Any woman with attitude, and you definitely have it is someone to be admired. I bet you have great friends because there is no way you could be the Diva you are with whimps in your corner.
It may be “old school” but – You Go Girl!
Please keep going!!! I began WW in Feb 2010 and I am still going strong on it and it has its ups and downs but I have lost 43lbs so far and I am aiming to become a lifetime member.
I love your blog just had to comment!
Wow, you really hit home with this one. Handling criticism is tough. One of my mentors told me, “You have to develop a soft heart and tough skin.” You are right on!
Blogging is something that I have recently started getting more involved in myself. However, I didn’t start one for my weight loss, journey, though I could, it is about my experiences and the lessons learned along the way.
Stay strong girl and keep blogging. Whether you realize it or not, you are making a difference. Keep being a blessing!
Good for you! Keep up the good work and don’t let anyone get you down.
I completely agree, especially about eating healthy. We should be able to live healthy lifestyles eating whole, fresh, wonderful food. Not this low calorie, sugar substitute crap! Keep doing what your doing