Sweet Valentine | Outfit
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Growing up, my parents gave all of us kids Valentines+chocolate, my cousins and I always had a Valentine’s tea party (which we do to this day!), and my brothers and I always exchanged Valentines. So I never really hated the day, even through the years of being single (and being one of the last single friends); to me, Valentine’s day has always been about showing everyone you care about that you love them. I am naturally a romantic, so of course I always wished I had a special someone, but to be honest, I’ve always looked forward more to the chocolate than anything else on Valentine’s day. So sue me, I have a sweet tooth.
This Valentine’s day is a little different. Nehemiah and I celebrated last night, and I secretly made yesterday my Valentine’s day because today I’m committing to a healthier lifestyle. I don’t talk about weight gain or loss a lot here any more (ever since someone mentioned anonymously that it seemed like I was always on-and-off again with Paleo and all that… which was totally true). I never want to make someone feel as though I think my health standards are universal (they aren’t! My standards are for myself only!). But last week I weighed in at the heaviest I’ve ever been while not pregnant, and only 8 lbs lighter than my heaviest pregnancy weight.
It was a sobering realization, and the wake-up call I needed to get my food priorities straight. From today on, I’m going to practice intuitive eating, as my biggest downfall by far is eating when I am not hungry. I am an emotional eater, and with some added stress lately (toddler sleep issues) I’ve let myself fall to food as a stress reliever.
I am not aspiring to get a super-skinny bod, because let’s face it: I am really not built that way. And I’m okay with the body type that I have — one that is fuller in the hips and thighs and belly. And, most importantly, skinny does not always equal healthy. But I do want to be strong and healthy, able to keep up with my kids or go on a hike, and I really want to wear some of my favorite clothes again.
 
I didn’t mean to make this post about weight, but hey. That’s how life is. Unexpected. Feel free to check in on how I am doing if you want to help keep me encouraged and on-track! I always appreciate people who are willing to help me along (and if you have any things that have helped you stay healthy, please do share!)
Cardigan, brooch, and shoes, thrifted | skirt, Modcloth | tights, Target | headband, gift from Hannah
Here’s to learning how to celebrate a day of love without chocolate.
It’s gonna be hard. (not.)
Happy Sunday!
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5 Comments
Jess Westphal
Kristina, I want to suggest TrimHealthyMama as an eating plan. It has a lot of similarities to Paleo, so I think you would transition perfectly. I LOVE it. It is truly about freedom and flexibility. I eat real pizza every week, but I make sure the majority of my meals are “on plan” and I am still able to lose those extra baby pounds! I believe in treating my cravings, just in moderation. Anyways, you do you. I love your honesty!
Kristina
Oh, thank you for the suggestion! I definitely believe in moderation as well — I don’t want to banish “junk” foods forever, I just need to find the sweet spot in healthy living! I have put the book on hold at my library, and I’m browsing their website right now! It’s also really helpful to hear people who are using a plan that works!
Mercy
Love the V-Day dress you’re sporting, very attractive.
http://www.busyandfab.com
Kadi
I have never been able to “diet.” Food is just so much a part of my life. I am always planning my next meal! I’m pregnant right now (and whoa…packing on the pounds), but have managed to maintain a healthy weight pre-pregnancy with exercise. I know how hard it is to find the time with the little ones around, so one big thing I recommend is a step tracker! You can use your phone if you have one (iphones can track them without an app, I’m not sure about other phones). Or get a fitbit. Find out how many steps you are taking typically and then set a new goal! This way, you don’t have to worry about a set exercise time or type. You just try to get in a few more steps everyday. After I started tracking my steps, I realized how much I was sitting during the day. Its really helped to make me more aware.
Lyndsey M
This also makes me realize that I never post about my weight online anymore as well. It’s just something that’s personal and I’d rather not have everything all out there for the world to marvel at what I struggle daily with (even though I spent years whining/posting about it online- which I def regret now). I have a mega addiction to CARBS. They are my worst enemy. But my health journey has taken a marvelous turn for the best and I feel better about myself, even though I’m heavier (thankfully not my heaviest) than I have been in 5 years. My best tip? Eat what makes you feel good longer than 5 mins (french fries taste good, but make you feel like crap later) and avoid the scale for weeks at a time. I can’t believe how much this has changed me!
I think you look so gorgeous in your sweet Valentines ensemble- I love your print mixing skills. Such a doll!