5 Healthy Foods that Help You Kick Cravings

When you're on a weight loss journey you will inevitably have cravings. Even if you're determined to meet your goals, sometimes it's hard to resist all the fatty and sugar filled foods that you used to eat. It is times like these that you need a safety net to keep you from slipping up and ruining all your hard work. Here's my list of five amazing foods that are full of vitamins and nutrients, but taste good enough to kill those nagging cravings.

1. Spaghetti & Meat Sauce
Yes, spaghetti! Don't get too excited...it's not the traditional spaghetti you're thinking about. My spaghetti and meat sauce is absolutely pasta free. Instead I use a lovely little veggie known as spaghetti squash. This gourd can be cut in half, seeds removed, and baked in the oven for about 45 minutes. Once taken out and cooled the squash can be separated with a fork and looks like little pasta ribbons. What's amazing about this squash is that the entire thing packs only 45 calories, not to mention tons of calcium and potassium as well. Pair this squash with your favorite meat sauce recipe like this one from Skinny Taste and you will be in pasta free heaven!

2. Sweet Potato Fries
French fries are the devil. A small size fry from any local fast food chain can have 400+ calories and tons of salt and fat. The best alternative that I have found is sweet potato fries. A medium sized sweet potato is only about 100 calories and is extremely nutritious since it contains vitamins A, B6, C, E, and K.

3. Iced Green Tea
If you're a Southern girl like I am, it's so hard giving up iced sweet tea. While it tastes amazing, it's nothing more than glorified sugar water. Indulging in a glass of sweet tea will send your blood sugar levels on a frenzy for the rest of the day and probably lead to even more intense sugar cravings. My favorite substitute is iced green tea. Not only is this tea full of antioxidants that support healthy hair, skin, and nail growth, but it also is a great metabolism booster. I prepare this tea using Stevia, a popular sugar substitute. What makes Stevia so great is that it has a glycemic index number of 0, meaning it has little to no effect on blood sugar. Now of course you could use Stevia to make regular iced sweet tea, but it won't have nearly as many benefits as green tea.

4. Salmon Burgers
Hamburgers seem to be a staple in American culture. While they can be oh so delicious, the calorie content can be catastrophic to any diet. Salmon burgers are a tasty solution to all burger craving woes. Salmon is a powerhouse packed with omega-3's, protein, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. Salmon is known to help cognitive function, improve eye health, and is connected to a decrease in cardiovascular problems. Try this amazing recipe from Cooking Light, but remember: buns can be deadly. Opt for whole wheat and low calorie bread.

5. Almond Breeze Chocolate Milk
This is my go to substitute when I need a chocolate fix. The unsweetened version is about 45 calories per serving and is chalk full of vitamins. It's a great go to when you are having cravings because you can have a nice tall glass and not feel bad about it. In those particularly desperate moments I suggest you try out the sweetened version. While you will get more sugars and about 120 calories per serving, it's pure chocolate deliciousness.

Hope this helps all you out there struggling with cravings. Remember, mind over stomach!

Love & Blessings,

- A

Plus Sized & Confident

I know so many people, both skinny and plus size, who lack self confidence. In this world polluted by the media telling us to look this way, act this way, or validate ourselves by how many Christian Louboutins are in our closet, we've lost sight of our own inner value. I won't stay that I have all the answers, or that I don't have any insecurities at all. Rather, what I will say is that I am absolutely in love with myself and no one can ever change that.

Sure, being overweight can be challenging. People look at you strangely if you decide to shop in certain stores. If you go out partying with a group of skinnier ladies you tend to feel like the "fat friend". However, life is challenging. If you're going to let weight stop you...what else is going to cause you to give up on yourself? Anyone can lose weight. There are real stories of people dropping 100+ pounds, doing it the right way, and keeping it off. The problem is that if you don't like yourself, the weight won't change that.The important thing to evaluate who you are and what you have to offer to this world. Everyone, I mean everyone, is valuable and important in their own way.

So maybe you're a little round in the stomach area or have lots and lots of junk in the trunk. WHO CARES? I am an intelligent, kind, creative, outgoing, amazing woman. I am not my dress size and neither are you. So the next time you feel down on yourself because of your size, remember it's just a number they sew on a label. The true you can never be defined by what section of the clothing store you shop in.

You are special. You are beautiful.

Love & Blessings,

- A

How To Choose A Plus Size Wedding Dress

Everyone knows that planning a wedding can be a nightmare, which eventually turns into one of the most special days of your life, but the planning is a nightmare nonetheless. You have 100 decisions to make about cakes, DJs, caterers, and venues. Everyone from your mother to your best friend's dog seems to have an opinion and all you want is to make your day memorable.While red velvet vs. marble swirl cake might seem like the end of the world, the best advice I can give any bride is to put most of the  focus on marrying the right man, snagging the right venue, and of course picking the right dress.

As plus size ladies we have to be  hyper aware of what type of  "assets" we are working with. For most of us that isn't a flat stomach, so wearing a tight fitting trumpet style dress probably isn't the best idea. I don't want to discourage anyone from purchasing their dream dress, but let's be honest...formal wear fabrics just aren't that forgiving.

The right silhouette will literally make or break your wedding look. An A line dress looks good on pretty much any plus sized diva. This silhouette is fitted at the chest, elongates your body, and opens to a full skirt at the bottom. It's great for hiding any tummy problems. 

 While model is not plus sized, the dress comes in plus sizes and can be purchased from Anya Bridal

Another great alternative is the ball gown. Some brides knock this look because they feel it can be a bit over the top, however, if you want that regal feel this is the dress for you. Ball gowns are fitted at the chest and have a dramatic flair at the bottom hiding all tummy/thigh/butt fat instantly. Warning: If you're petite (short) and plus sized a ball gown may swallow you whole

                                           Find this at David's Bridal (they are always having a sale)

If you have a small chest and a bigger bottom half, an empire waist dress may be the way to go. This silhouette will emphasize the smallest part of your waist and gracefully disguise your lower body. (Note: empires work especially well for pear shaped body types, but flatters lots of plus sized ladies).

Find this dress at Macy's for under $100 (It is BEAUTIFUL in person. I used it for my reception)

A huge debate in the world of plus size dresses are sleeves and straps. Some ladies aren't comfortable with their arms, and others have no problems showing it off. I personally feel a strapless dress can work on a plus sized bride as long as you have the confidence to rock it. However, some of us (*raises hand*) are extremely endowed in that region. For me, I preferred not to offend my ultra southern family with excess cleavage. While I didn't have full on sleeves, both my dresses had straps. Consider the season of your wedding. Full sleeves may not go for an outdoor summer wedding, but a nice halter would be perfect. Do whatever makes you feel beautiful because after all, you only get to do this once (hopefully).

Hope this helps! For more information on where to find plus size gowns check out my post here.

Love & Blessings,

- A

Where To Buy Plus Size Wedding Dresses

It's really difficult to find plus sized dresses.

When you watch shows like Say Yes To The Dress you see this idealized version of trying on all these beautiful dresses. What they rarely show is the horror that is bridal sample sizes. When you go into most bridal stores they do NOT have actual dresses for sale. They only have a sample for you to try on. They take all your measurements, and then a dress will be ordered for you in the appropriate size. This is the reason brides should order their dresses 9 - 12 months before their wedding date. It takes time to get the dress in, have fittings, alterations, etc. The thing that sucks most about this system? Sample sizes are TINY.

The average traditional bridal salon carries their samples in a size 8. If you're lucky, some bridal salons carry both an 8 and a 16. They believe that if you are bigger or smaller than these sizes, you can at least slip the dress on and determine if it's right for you. Let's say you are a size 16 in regular clothes, in the world of bridal gowns you will probably be a 20! I know this seems totally ridiculous, but bridal gown sizing is based off a European system which means they can run about 2 - 4 sizes small. The sad truth is that even a size 10 may not fit into the sample size 16. If you go in to your bridal fitting with this information, you won't be thrown off guard. No matter how shocking that size tag may be, all that matters is you make your fiance's heart stop when you come down the aisle.

The only way to avoid the sample size situation is to buy from an "off the rack" store. The most popular off the rack store is David's Bridal. They are known for having an array of plus sized dresses, but you buy the dress as is. Often many women have tried it on. I know some plus sized divas cringe at the thought of buying a dress from this type of chain, but just remember, it's all about the way YOU make the dress look. A little steaming, a beautiful veil, and the right shoes can make a dress go a long way. For instance, I tried on these two dresses in my search for the perfect attire for my special day.

Funny thing is....It's the same dress. I tucked the straps in to see if I would like it better as a strapless ensemble. In the end I kept the straps, but the point is that  with the right accessories and alternations, you can revamp any dress (and yes this dress came from David's Bridal).

 Department stores like Macy's and Nordstrom's tend to have bridal sections with fabulous dresses that come in plus sizes. I don't really advocate buying your dress online, however, if the department store in your area doesn't have a bridal section you can feel comfortable purchasing a dress online because it can be easily returned and your money refunded. When you order from random overseas warehouses there is no guarantee that your dress will fit, arrive on time, or be anything like what you saw online.

Check your local area for formal wear stores that sell pageant dresses. Often these dresses are extremely elaborate and can work for a wedding.

Make sure you do a thorough search on dress boutiques in your area. I know here in Atlanta there are some bridal salon's such as Anya Bridal and New Natalie's that have dresses in sizes 0 - 26 available for brides to try on.

Don't give up on traditional bridal salons. Even places like Kleinfeld's carry some plus size dresses. The key is to narrow down which designers carry plus sizes and then find bridal salons that carry those particular designers. At the end of the day, shopping for your dress is a great experience if you're prepared. Go in with a clear head and have an idea of what type of dress you are looking for.

Wherever you decide to try on dresses, make sure you wear appropriate shapewear. Taffetta, tulle, and the like just aren't very forgiving fabrics. The right shape wear will make your dress fit flawlessly. Don't be ashamed. Even the skinniest of brides wear corsets under their dresses. I rocked these flesh toned spanx with a great strapless bra and it worked perfectly.

Hope this helps!

Love & Blessings,

- A

Meatball and Lentil Soup

Here's another healthy recipe! Even though it's summer, I still love eating soup. They are easy one pot, no fuss meals that don't take too long. I came up with this soup on the fly with random ingredients I had around the house. Hopefully you'll love it just as much as I do :)

Ingredients:
6 cups of chicken broth (I used 99% fat free)
1 cup of lentils
1/2 an onion chopped
1 cup of carrots chopped
2 pieces of  yellow squash chopped
15 turkey meatballs (I used meatballs that I made fresh and then froze earlier in the week )
Half a bag of  fresh spinach
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp thyme
1 tbsp tumeric
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp salt

** Note: All my measurements for seasonings are ESTIMATES. I almost always eyeball my seasonings and adjust based on taste

1. Fill a large pot with 4 cups of chicken broth and bring to a boil

2. Add in onions and lentils and cook as directed on package

3. After lentils are thoroughly cooked add the rest of the chicken broth,  frozen turkey meatballs, carrots, squash 

4. Season the soup with cumin, thyme, tumeric, salt, and pepper and cook on medium heat for 15 - 20

5. Bring heat down to low and stir in spinach

6. ENJOY!

This soup is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants because of all the delicious vegetables inside. This recipe should easily yield enough for 4 people. We toasted up some fresh whole grain baguette and served it on the side. Let me know if you try it!

Love and Blessings,
- A

Wedding Bells

Hey lovelies!

I know I have been toootally MIA yet again, however, it was with good reason. I had my wedding ceremony on June 24, 2012. I planned the wedding ENTIRELY by myself so needless so say, I have been running around like a chicken with my head cut off. Everything turned out beautifully. My friends and family really came through for me and I was honestly astonished at the generosity of my wedding guests. My husband and I received so many gifts and we're so grateful!

Most of the wedding was DIY....I purchased lots of things from Hobby Lobby, Ebay, and SmartyHadAParty.com. I was able to hand make the following:

1. Bouquets
2. Boutonnieres
3. All centerpieces
4. Ceremony programs
5. My hair accessories
6. Bridesmaid sashes
7. Shoe clips

Many of these projects can be used for any type of event so I may do a few DIY posts in the future :)

It took lots of time and patience but the wedding turned out just the way I wanted. Here's a few snapshots...

                                                                     Entire Wedding Party

                                                                    Bride & Groom
                                                          

                                                                    

                                                Photo of table settings before guests arrived


I have tons of posts coming up. Thanks for being patient with me! In the meantime go check out my friend Olga's website. She has an amazing blog on food and recipes at discoveringotheroptions.blogspot.com

 Love & Blessings,
- A

Weight Loss Update

Hello Lovelies!

I know I have been completely MIA lately...but my life has been SO busy. I have been traveling for the past 3 weeks so everything has been sort of nuts.

I lost the last 10 lbs I was looking to lose by June 23 :) I really didn't take any "before" pictures however this is where I am currently

Totally in love with this dress! I am still an 20 pants, however some 18s fit. In shirts I wear a XL, L depending on where I purchase from. My body type is extremely bottom heavy. At my skinniest my thighs and butt have still been big so I think I will always be smaller on top.

I have tons more goals so follow me on this journey. I hope to just maintain where I am until June 23 and then between June 23 and July 23 I hope to be down another 15lbs. This equals to about 3lbs a week which is totally achievable. My dad just ordered Jillian Michaels Body Revolution for me so I will be using that in addition to just hitting the gym. I'll let you know how it goes

Love & Blessings,
- A

Review: CVS Facial Cleansing Power Brush

We've all seen various bloggers and vloggers talk about about the Clarisonic. While I fully believe that it is an amazing product, I just can't shell out $100+ dollars for a cleansing brush. While I do suffer from acne and breakouts from time to time, my skin isn't terrible so I just don't see the point.

Olay came out with a similar product called the Olay Pro-X Advanced Cleansing System. This is much more affordable than the Clarisonic ranging at around $30 depending on the retailer. While I toyed around with the idea of buying this product, I never seemed to get around to it. Lucky for me I was browsing around in my local CVS and noticed that they came out with their own version of the Olay Pro-X (for only $19.99 might I add).

The CVS Facial Cleansing Power Brush is really awesome for the price. It comes with the power brush, 2 brush heads, and 2 AA batteries. It is recommended that you use each brush head for about 3 months before discarding and getting a new one. You use this product by applying the facial cleanser of your choice to the skin. Next, moisten the brush head with water and turn it on. There are two speeds - high and low, as well as a button that allows for bi-directional spin. After using the brush on your face for about a minute, rinse your skin and pat it dry.

I've been using this tool for the last week and I actually see a noticeable difference in my skin. Now I must warn you, it isn't a miracle worker. If you are having really bad trouble with your skin, it's best that you rethink your diet and water intake, and perhaps see a dermatologist. In addition, the brush is only as good as the facial cleanser you use it with. Nevertheless, I can definitely tell my face is getting a much more thorough cleanse than it would with my fingers alone. I use the brush with my Clean & Clear Blackhead Clearing Scrub. Although it has some little exfoliating beads, it is gentle enough for daily use and I haven't had a problem combining it with my cleansing brush.

What's your favorite skin care product?

Love & Blessings
- A

Recipe of the Week: Shrimp Tacos

This is something new that I am starting so that I can share my healthy recipes with all you other lovely ladies who are on a journey to get fit. This week it's all about the shrimp tacos. As a girl who grew up on Florida's Gulf Coast, seafood has been a staple in my diet. Unfortunately, I now live in landlocked Georgia and the seafood just isn't the same *sigh*. Nevertheless, I sought to make a healthy meal with one of my favorite foods...even if I had to buy frozen instead of fresh shrimp.

What you will need...

1 pound of fresh or frozen shrimp

Cooking spray or olive oil

1 can of black beans

2 pieces of Flatout Multi-Grain Flatbread with Flax (100 calories)

1/2 container of Greek Yogurt (personal size)

1/2 onion finely chopped

1/2 green bell pepper chopped

1 tablespoon sugar or sugar substitute (stevia, splenda, etc.)

1 + 1/2 tablespoon of curry powder

1 teaspoon chili powder

Optional:

Cayenne Pepper (to taste)

Hot sauce (to taste)

(Recipe yields 4 shrimp tacos)

Instructions

Preparing the Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine half the container of greek yogurt (more if you like lots of sauce), sugar, curry powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper and hot sauce 

2. Make sure to combine mix very thoroughly

3. If you like a sweeter sauce add more sugar or if you like a more spicy sauce add more cayenne/hot sauce

Preparing Black Beans

1. Black beans can easily prepared by pouring the can into a small pot and heating until they boil. I generally don't add anything to my black beans, however, feel free to add any spices or herbs. This is an easy way to add calorie free flavor to your food :)

Preparing the Taco

**Make sure your shrimp is thawed prior to cooking if required

1. Finely chop 1/2 of an onion

2. Chop up 1/2 of a green bell pepper

3. Using a nonstick frying pan, lightly cover the bottom with olive oil or cooking spray and warm on medium high heat

4. Place onions and bell pepper into pan and saute until just about translucent

5. Add in shrimp and cook for about 3 - 5 minutes...be sure not to overcook or shrimp will become rubbery

6. Cut each slice of flatbread in half. They are very long pieces and one slice will yield two taco shells

7. Add one serving of shrimp/onions/bell peppers (about 3 - 4 oz) per taco shell and add sauce

Although I can't give you the EXACT calories for this meal, it is a low calorie option. Shrimp is usually about 80 - 100 calories per serving and the flatbread is only 100 calories for 2 tacos. Black beans are in the neighborhood of 115 calories for every 1/2 cup (depending on the brand).

Let me know if you try this and feel free to share any of your recipes with me.

Love & Blessings,

- A

Weight Loss Goals

As you all know, I am on a mission to take control of my health and waist line. So far has been so good, but I figured I would share my goals with you.

I think the number one key to success on weight loss journey is setting realistic goals. If you need to lose 100+ pounds, that can be extremely overwhelming to tackle at once. The best thing is to break it down into smaller, more manageable chunks so that you have the best possible chance of success.I honestly have no long term goals when it comes to an actual number on the scale.  However, I do have very specific goals when  it comes to pants size. Currently, I am a size 20 (eek!), but I would L-O-V-E to be back in a size 12. That is my main goal for the year 2012.  Of course that is not super small or thin by most people's standards, but a 12 looks really good on my body and is something that I comfortable with.

I have lost weight in the past but gained it back due to stress and convenience eating. This time I'm making total lifestyle changes in order to get the weight off and keep it off. I'm also not looking for miracle results. I know that in order to reach my goals, I HAVE TO PUT THE WORK IN.

My short term goal is to lose 20 lbs before June 22, 2012. I have already lost just under half and I don't think 10lbs (ish) is a lot to lose in a month's time. I know that they say 2lbs a week is healthy weight loss, however, if you are fat, weight drops off of you quickly when you're really putting in the time. It's much easier for a fat person to lose 30, 40 pounds than it is for a smaller person to lose even 15 lbs. I know this from personal experience. I lost 30 pounds in 5 weeks time in the past and I was not taking diet pills, shakes, or doing anything unhealthy. The first chunk of pounds usually melts off if you are dedicated. The last 30 or so pounds of a weight loss is generally what becomes the hardest to lose.

After I reach the goal of losing 20 lbs I will check in with you guys for before and after shots, as well as an update on my pants size.

Love & Blessings,

- A

Nails of the Day & Beauty Subscription Services

Spring/Summer is my favorite time of the year because of the bright and bold colors. I also like to get carried away with bright and crazy nail designs. Today I am sporting the Sally Hansen Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips in the color Animal Instinct (pink and black zebra). These strips were sent to me in my Influenster Vox Box. On my ring fingers I am wearing the Miss Beauty Nail Bling sent to me in my monthly MyGlam bag. The Sally Hansen strips were very easy to apply, seem to be holding up well, and are so darn adorable! I will definitely re-purchase these in the future. I am not as impressed with the Miss Beauty Nail Bling. They were sort of difficult to apply and they are already starting to peel off :(

Let's chat a little bit about Influenster & MyGlam... If you don't already know, Influenster is a completely FREE beauty tester program. You take several quizzes and earn badges based on your interests. Every few months Influenster comes out with a "Vox Box",or beauty box, full of several full size products. Recipients of the boxes are selected based upon prior participation and badges so you are not always guaranteed a box. However, there have only been 3 boxes since I became a member and I have received 2 of them. There is NO CATCH. It is totally free. They only ask that you review the products, share them on social networking sites if you like them, and take a survey once you're done trying everything out.

MyGlam is sort of similar to Influenster, except it is a monthly subscription service and there are no surveys to take. The price is $10 per month and you receive 4-5 samples and deluxe samples of beauty products in a cute little makeup bag. This company was started by Youtuber Michelle Phan and many of the stylists are Youtube Gurus (AndreasChoice, MissJessicaHarlow, etc).

So far I have LOVED both services, however, I prefer Influenster. MyGlam is nice, but I generally receive products that I wouldn't consider repurchasing. Influenster stocks their beauty boxes with affordable everyday products.

Love & Blessings,
- A

Oh My Peplum!

This spring being chic means bringing back a very feminine side to fashion. We have all seen the adorable pastels and sherbet colors rock the runway, and of course, the color blocking seems here to stay. Yet my favorite spring trend is most definitely peplum. What I love about this style is that it is so versatile. Pair a peplum piece with some neutral colors and you are totally office chic. Glam it up with accessories and a smokey eye and you will be sure to turn heads on a date or girl's night out.

Sometimes curvy girls shy away from this style, but all you need are a few key pieces of advice to pull this look off -

1. If you are concerned about the peplum making you look more "hippy" than you already are, pair it with something fitted at the bottom. A body con skirt, leggings, or anything in black will give you a more slender appearance and round out the extra curves peplum may give you

2. Statement piece necklace will draw the eye upward and there will be less focus on the wider frame peplum can give you

3.Spanx. Hey...everyone needs a little support now and then, right? Spanx or other body shapers will cinch you in and the extra curves won't be as bad. Don't be embarassed about wearing Spanx. There are different types, fits, sizes and even the skinniest of Hollywood beauties sport them.

4. Be confident!

Audrey Colorblock Dress with Peplum Tier 

Fashion to Figure

$45

Soprano Plus Size Dress, Sleeveless Peplum Sheath

Macy's

Sale: $53.99 (until 5/29/12)

Love & Blessings,
- A

Starbucks Is Not A Crime

Starbucks has been a serious addiction of mine since the 6th grade. Before the lectures about the health risks of coffee start rolling in, let me be clear...I have no desire to stop drinking coffee. I have cut down to drinking it a few times a week and the rest of the days I drink Earl Grey Tea. Everyone has their vice - that one thing that helps them cope. My vice just so happens to be coffee and I will happily accept any negative consequences that may or may not come along with it #YOLO

However, since I am on a weight loss journey, the sugar packed calorie filled drinks at Starbucks can put a damper on my goals. Every fitness blog and article tells you to stay away from lattes, but there are several ways to save on calories when it comes to Starbucks...

1. Don't get full fat milk. They have skim and soy (my fav) 

2. Get the "light" version. Most frapps and lattes come in a light version with sugar-free syrup. Yes, sugar free syrups are made with artificial sweeteners (which aren't the best for you), but you gotta start somewhere

3. Order a tall (starbucks version of a small). Smaller drink = less calories.

My current favorite is the Grande Mocha Coconut Light Frappuccino. At 16oz. and only 160 calories this is a great way to indulge and beat the heat!

You can always check the nutrition guide at www.starbucks.com

Love & Blessings,

- A

Here's To Change

First post (hopefully of many)!

Let me give you the low down on myself. My name is Alexa, I'm 23, and I LOVE clothes/shoes/beauty/fashion. I'm also a quite curvy girl. As many people know, being a curvy girl in a skinny world can be extremely challenging, but I take it all in stride. In my eyes fashion knows no size. It's all about finding fabulous pieces that fit and make you feel comfortable.

I have never been the type of girl with low self esteem. I love my curves! You don't need to be a size 00 to be beautiful, regardless of what the media may say. The point of this blog is to share my life and experiences with you guys. We will talk about beauty trends, hair, fashion, food, working out, and pretty much anything I think is worth a share. Feel free to follow me on this journey and share your thoughts, suggestions, blogs, and YT channels with me.

Love & Blessings,
- A