Gaining Weight – Cute, Confident & Fat

Hello, is it me you’re looking for?!

Long-time, no chat, and I miss it here.  So let’s work on fixing that, shall we.  More often than not, you can find me on my Instagram stories.  That’s where I tend to hang out and engage the most now, so be sure to join me over there (@pharr_away) if you haven’t already.  But, in this space, I wanted to share a few details about my gradual weight gain, how I feel about it, and what I’m doing now to get back on track.

Backstory

Back in December 2017, I started going to a Zumba class pretty regularly at least 2-3 times per week. I enjoyed it, I had time and I made it a priority (that last one is a major key).  I was doing well for a few months and could see and feel the difference, but in May 2018, a debilitating event occurred that caused me to spiral a bit.  My weight went downhill from there.  Fast-forward to January 2019, I started a new, intense role at work and I started working from 8-6: 30 pm most days.  To this day, I continue to work those hours the majority of the time.  So, working out has not been a priority with time being a big factor as to why.

Weight Gain

My eating habits have been subpar over the past year.  In college, when I used to become upset or depressed I’d actually stop eating.  Now, when I’m down and out, or if work is stressful, which is basically all the time,  I want comfort food — ice cream being the main comforter of choice.  At one point, I was eating it every single week.  Hello, gut!  At that same time, I wasn’t working out at all. So, it’s no surprise that I’ve gained a few, make that several, pounds since 2018.  Before children, I typically weighed between 150 – 160 pounds, and it’s the range I like to stay within.  When pregnant with both girls I got up to weights between 200 and 210 pounds.  My current weight – 195.4 pounds. *gasps* And no, my friends, your sis ‘ain’t’ pregnant.

Cute & Confident

I wanted to mention that in spite of the weight gain, I still feel so very cute, pretty and confident.  In the words of Lil Naz X, “can’t nobody tell me nothing“, I’ve still got it. Okay?!  I think one of the mistakes women make when they’ve gained weight is to start to think that they aren’t as beautiful, and desirable as before.  But we are and should treat ourselves as such, and ensure we’re treated by others as such, regardless of size.  Also, when we struggle to get the weight off (I’ve tried a few times since all of this started and failed), we don’t adjust our wardrobe to ensure we continue to remain comfortable and confident and I think that’s one of our biggest mistakes.  No, I have no intention of staying this size.  No, I’m not at all happy with this weight gain, yet and still, I bought myself a few outfits so that I can continue to look my best at this size.  If you saw me in real life, you’d never guess that I weigh nearly 200 lbs, and that’s the intent.  I feel like I’m carrying the weight well and adjusting my wardrobe is a part of that perception.  Regardless of all that, changes are afoot.

Just so we’re clear, I’m not mad at all at these new thighs, and I’ll be working to protect them at all costs during this season of slim down.  Also of note, my husband, Mario, has been the sweetest and so encouraging as I’ve complained about this (yet continued down the same path) the past few months.  This has helped a lot, and I’m certain it’s part of the reason why I’ve been able to maintain my confidence.

What’s Next

Cleaning up my eating habits is first on the list.  Mario always tells me that eating right is 80% of the battle. I doubt that statistic is accurate, but I agree that it’s the most important (at least in my case).  When I eat poorly, it shows in my skin, my energy and obviously in my body.  I’m cutting out ice cream, soda, chips, etc., things we warded off and said we wouldn’t bring into our home years ago any way, but I’ve been breaking all of those rules as of late.

ALSO READ:  Process of Elimination | Foods You Should No Longer Bring Into Your Home

I’ve also committed to doing 10-minute exercises every single morning as soon as I get up that consist of planks, crunches, leg lifts, and push-ups.  I had to remove squats due to a knee issue (more to come on that at a later date).  A complete bummer.  In addition to that, I’m trying to do Zumba at least once per week and the gym at least once per week.  It’s a lot all at once but I’d like to get down to at least 180 by the end of September and down to my goal weight of 160 by December.

Y’all, ya girl will lose a total of 35lbs in the next 5 months.  It’s more than possible, but only if I remain consistent and disciplined.  Root for me and hold me accountable.  Seriously.  The food temptations are real.

Like I said, still cute :).

And, shoutout to my 7yo, Madison, for taking these photos!

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As always, Live Fully
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