Ancient Chinese Proverb

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step...

Christmas Cheer

Tis the season to be jolly and joyful of all those wonderful things that make this holiday great.  Well, some days are not so jolly but I must say they are getting easier and more enjoyable day after day.  I try each morning to rise and read aloud one good comment of the inspirational cards my girlfriend Cheryl has given to me.  Thus far they are working.  Today I read "I am Loveable".  Now I must be off to wrap some gifts and groom my new loveable self, for this week is filled with holiday parties and get togethers with my most precious friends who have been so understanding and supportive.  With love...

Good Bye my Love....

I would have to say that all relationships experience their share of trials and tribulations, mine however, is in over abundance.  I've come to realize that what was once my driving force is now what holds me back.  The person that once made me strong is now my biggest weekness.  Something that was broken many moons ago has never been properly mended and can only be fixed by saying goodbye.  I once wrote that romance starts by loving yourself, and I take my words seriously.  I have to love myself and stand on my own so that I can be a better person.  I am not proud of what I've been feeling inside, the bad thoughts and the many insecurities that go along with a bad relationship, so I've decided to end what has been an 11 year battle with myself.  I could easily point the finger at you, and you know who you are, but I realize you only did what I allowed you to do.  I tried to imagine a world were we could just be, but you didn't share that same image.  I believe it came at too great a cost to you, and for this I cannot blame you and maybe I'll find the strength to forgive you....someday.  So begins something new, a road that has been untravelled, something that is frightening and yet exciting.  I wish you love and happiness, and I'm certain you hold the same regard for me.  You will forever be in my thoughts, and I hope in time only good thoughts remain.

A New Day

Well, now that all in life is back to normal, I must begin again and make up for the damage I did during my tavels.  In the month of October I visited Stratford, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and lastly Hawaii.  I ate and drank wine in abundance, and since we reep what we sow, I'm reeping an extra 10 pounds.  Now its time to hit the grindstone and get fit in time for Christmas.  I have a beautiful gown (size 14) that I would love to fit into by New Years Eve, which is also my birthday.  This means I would have to drop 2 dress sizes in 2 months.  I believe it can be done with proper nutrition and exercise.  Wish me luck.

Happy Halloween!!

Happy Halloween to all.  I'm going to enjoy going out tonight to see all the costumes, but before I do I'll be giving out tricks or treats to all the little goblins that come calling. 

Halloween is near!!

Halloween is and has always been, in the duration of my life anyway, the funnest day of the year.  The season is my favourite with its crisp air, russelling leaves, and all the beautiful colours and fall mums.  I'm excited to see all the children's energy, probably from sugar, and the decorations that reflect all those things that go bump in the night.

Giving Thanks

Many people take time to celebrate our holidays, but do they actually appreciate the true meaning of them.  Today, being the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday, I would like to acknowledge that I am happy and grateful to have such amazing people in my life.  Everything is not always a bowl of cherries, however there is valuable time spent, and many lessons learned from each interaction I have encountered.  I've learned that people don't always meet your expectations, but sometimes when you least expect it and most desperately need it they exceed them.  I've learned that behind every tough exterior lurks a pure and forgiving soul that desires to be needed and loved.  I've also learned that everything you want in life is achievable, all you have to do is set forth the desire, ask it of the universe, and surround yourself with those who love you, accept you, and support you.  The most valuable lesson I've learned is that you cannot receive what you do not give.  So, I choose to give love, respect, thanks and support to those people who are in my life.  With all the love in my heart, Happy Thanksgiving, Yvette.

Promises to Me

Three of my very good friends, and myself of course, have formed a group to battle the few unwanted pounds we so desire to loose.  Although, I don't like to admit it I am a huge procrastinator.  I start off my day eating right, and as the day wears on my will power weakens and the cravings start, for things like cake and cookies or ice-cream.  Yikes.  Of course, being the procrastinator that I am, I always say, well I'll eat better tomorrow, and of course, tomorrow never comes.  It just remains one excuse after another.  So, today, it STOPS!!!  I really want to fit into my size 14 clothes that are just sitting in my closet, too tight for re-entry into my plus fashion world.  I'm very content at that size and wish to get back to it.  So, my journey begins with a promise to myself.  I promise to be consistant in all things regarding my health.  I promise to remain focused and excited about my body.  I promise to remain concious of the food that I consume, and to record it for accountability.  Lastly, I promise to be honest with myself, and my support group.

A Lovely Weekend

Wow, spent a lovely weekend in two of my absolute favourite places.  Niagara-on-the-Lake and Stratford.  Both are quaint towns filled with unique shops, great dining, and enough art and live theatre to please all who visit.  We spent one full day in each spot and enjoyed shopping, walking, and walking, and walking.  This was a good thing because we certainly ate well.  Now that I have de-stressed and absolutely enjoyed the beauty of these two incredable places, I can hit the grindstone and get back into focus, but only for a few weeks.  Next trip.....Hawaii.....yippie!!

A New Season Around the Corner

Is it too premature to be getting excited about fall.  It is my favorite season and I can feel it in the air, I can just smell the crispness setting in.  Ahhhh! How beautiful, God truely blessed this earth.

What Everyone But You Sees About Your Body Sex, Love & Life: glamour.com

What Everyone But You Sees About Your Body Sex, Love & Life: glamour.com

Shared via AddThis

Dress and Address your Body Type - The Apple

Many plus sized models are shaped much like an apple. Generally larger breasted, a thick waist line, a wide back span, smaller hips and bottom, and thinner legs and arms. This is my body type and by far the most challenging to work with.

In regards to health, the apple physique is of some concern. Women with a thicker mid-section are at risk of heart problems, diabetes, and inflammation. So, in order to keep any health concerns in check, do some tests with your physician, follow a healthy eating lifestyle, and engage in some activity like walking or swimming.

I recently had a consultation with a nutritionist, who put me on a low glycemic eating plan, and within days I feel more energy and my skin is more vibrant. I do not feel deprived of food in any way, I love to eat, however I'm just a lot more conscious of what I consume.

The Fashion Challenge.




Casual Comfort. Simple and fashionable tops that fit loosely yet still flatter your bust line and arms. Pair your casual tops with a pair of boot cut jeans and a some lovely wedge shoes. Keep your tops simple and in solid flattering colours.



Cut and Colour. When you wear the right clothes and colours you can look slim. Wear clothes that are not tight around you mid-section, go for the empire waist or anything that has it's gathering just under the breast line. When you desire to draw the eye away from a wide middle you can draw it vertically by wearing a deep v-neck, and be sure your tops are not over sized and fit properly in the shoulders.

When choosing slacks or skirts, full is better, this creates balance. Please do not wear skinny jeans or low riders, you will only look like a muffin. I've tried this, with no success. Follow your natural waistline, and choose a fuller leg or boot leg pant.

Models with an apple shaped figure generally opt for a darker solid coloured top (to minimize) and a lighter coloured bottom (to maximize).




The Evening. Flaunt it with an empire waist dress that has a lower cut bust line, just because you can! If you accessorize remember elegant not bulky, and because you have fabulous legs you can pull off those killer shoes you've been dying to wear.




The fall jacket. Any nice mid length or longer jacket will be suitable. Remember to keep your lines clean meaning no fur on the collar or heavy layering around the collar or chest, this will add extra volume. Clean simple lines will appear slimming and add a little extra elegance to your outfit. Remember the fashion goal is to draw the eye upwards or vertical.




Pictures compliments of http://www.sarafashion.co.nz/

Road Trip

Every so often I start to feel restless due to the same old routine. You wake up, go to work, come home, work out, watch some TV or play on the computer (which I love) and go to bed, and start all over again tomorrow. I actually love the life I live because I have the freedom to get up and go for the weekend when ever I choose. I think that time has come, everything is starting to feel monotonous. So, off I go. Where to? I really don't know, but I do know I'm going to have a wonderful time!

And Then There was Man...

A very talented and great friend of mine once said to me, "you will find exactly what you're looking for when you open yourself up to receiving it, you must set forth the intention". Well, at the time she said this she may as well have been uttering it in another language because I really didn't understand it. I thought, I'm open to love, and isn't that every one's intention? I guess I wasn't ready to hear what she actually said, it took a couple of months of pondering and reading and learning before the light actually went on. Cheryl (author of My Ideal Husband) obviously knew me well and could offer some enlightened guidance in this area. Through her teachings I have learned that you must become what it is you seek in a partner and you really must be comfortable and secure with yourself before you can give and receive healthy love.

It's nice to know that at the end of a long road of discovering and healing one's soul there is that glimmer of light at the end of that journey that is hopefully the perfect man for me.

Love Scents * The Nose Knows *

Smells can trigger memories and can subconsciously set the stage for romantic and desired conditions. Men and women throughout the ages have used plant and herbs to assist them in the art of seduction. People today still practice the use of scents in sexual and spiritual rituals, like the art of massage or using incense with meditation. They evoke pleasure and are used to court the opposite sex so that one may gain access to the splendor of romance and unity.

Many people utilize the ambiance of scents through the purchase of perfumes, room sprays and plug in fresheners. These are easy and ready-made, but may contain chemicals and could be costly. Many people prefer the use of essential oils because, although you may initially spend a bit on your favourite smells, they actually last a long time because the are extremely concentrated, and have a shelf life of several years if stored in a cool dark spot.

Essential oils are complex and highly fragrant substances that are extracted from fruit, flowers, spice plants, roots of plants, woods, and leaves of all sorts. Essential oils should be kept in a dark, air tight container because they vaporize when exposed to air and may spoil when left in sunlight. Oils should never be consumed, but should be applied topically. They may cause a reaction if applied directly to skin, so diluting is best. Essential oils are most commonly diluted in carrier oils which are fatty or vegetable oils like jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, almond oil etc. These oils (fatty and essential) compliment each other synergistically and are easily absorbed into the skin, and eventually penetrate the tissues and making its way to the blood stream. Absorption can take anywhere from half an hour to two hours.

Considering the absorption factor, you may want to put some research into the essential oils you are using, because some may have a positive or even medicinal effect on specific issues such as stress, or inflammation.

Take a Much Needed Time Out

What a way to say goodbye to stress. Lay back and relax in a wonderful bath filled with all the beautiful smells of nature. We all have our favourite smells, I like lavender for a nice relaxing bath. Use a bubble bath, or a bath bomb, or even scented Epsom salts. Its not important what you use, its important that you take the time you need in a busy day to unwind a stressed body and mind and treat yourself to luxurious solitude.

O LA LA CHOCOLAT !!

Despite popular belief, chocolate is not an aphrodisiac, however it contains phenylethylamine (PEA) which is a natural substance that stimulates the same reaction as falling in love. This is essentially why chocolate has become our #1 gift giving product for valentines day and many other special occasions where love and union are recognized.

We all know that solid chocolate is high in fat, just over 1/2 the calories in bittersweet, semisweet and milk chocolate come from fat, and even though cocoa butter, which is contained in chocolate, is mostly saturated fat, studies show that it does not appear to raise blood cholesterol.

This little tid bit of good news is by no means a licence to gorge yourself with chocolate, but it is comforting to know that entirely banishing this decadent treat isn't necessary. Just a reminder to me - moderation is key and dark is better!

A Note to God

Every day brings a new beginning. Dear God, even though my days may end in turmoil, I have faith and am grateful that each day begins a fresh and new birth. I am thankful that I am given the ability to change the things that no longer serve me. Each and every day, and in every way, things are getting better.

Chick Flick

THE UGLY TRUTH

A romantic comedy where morning show producer Abby Richter ( Katherine Heigl ) is searching for Mr. Right and finds an arrogant Mike Chadway ( Gerard Butler ) who is a hard core TV personality hosting "The Ugly Truth".

I watched this movie a few nights back and am contemplating seeing it again. I found it hilarious and very entertaining. I am a huge Gerard Butler fan, and found is performance great in this comedy.

Modelling 101 - The Interview

Consider this: You've sent some regular snapshots into an agency. One full face shot and one full body shot, along with all of your contact information. They show some interest and call you to set up an interview, now what? To be interview ready, take focus of these things.


* Your Hair. It is important to keep hair healthy looking, meaning a good cut and a style that is current and classy, not too trendy. Remember they need to be able to work with your hair. Interview time is not the time to try out a new colour, they hired you based on the photos you sent in not on the new redhead you want to become.

* Your Body. Agents are expecting plus girls to look healthy, curvy, and toned. They key word is toned, not skinny. Be sure to look your best. If you wax, do it at least 3 days prior, in case of breakout. If you shave, do it the night before. Keep nails shorter and with a nude polish or french manicure, and be sure to do your toe nails as well. Have a professional manicure and pedicure, you've got this far, you may as well spend a few extra dollars to make sure you look great. Water, water, water, drink plenty of it, for at least a week before the interview. Proper hydration will keep the skin free from blemishes, and keep you from appearing bloated.

* Your Face. To ensure glowing, healthy looking skin, follow a solid skincare regime, and as stated above, drink plenty of water. To the interview, wear make-up that is neutral, and flattering to your best features. Don't go for dark, heavy colours, agents can recognize great features without the need for make-up. Don't use a self tanner or go for any extreme tanning sprays before an interview, and be sure to avoid tanning beds at all costs. They cause pre-mature aging!

* Your Style. Wear clothes that are stylish, flattering, and have simple lines and with simple colours. Don't wear anything too busy, too trendy, or over the top. Remember dress with class and style, this is a professional trade with a ton of competition.

* Your Diet. Eat, and eat food that is nourishing for your body. Do not follow extreme diets, or starve yourself. If you struggle with nutrition, or don't know what you should be eating to look your best, seek out the advice of a professional. Remember, good nutrition shows in your skin, hair, and nails. So to look your best, eat foods that are high in vitamins and antioxidants, avoid too many sweets and processed foods, and drink water, water, water.

* Your Mind. Make sure you have realistic goals. Do you fit the criteria of a plus model? Ask, yourself this question, and be sure you want to model for the right reasons. If you are entering the field of modelling to prove to yourself or the world that you are pretty, or for acceptance, you're in it for the wrong reasons. That should be something you already have. Modelling should be done because you feel you have something to give to the industry. Having a positive and self loving mindset is important during the interview process. Agents don't want to deal with individuals who are completely self absorbed, negative, or unrealistic.

* Ask Questions. If you don't know anything about the industry, ask the agent to run through it with you. They are there to help you succeed, and in turn they succeed, so don't be afraid to ask anything that is of concern to you. Most important, don't lie to your agent about your weight, size, measurements, or anything else. This will only hurt your credibility, and your future.

* Sleep. Make sure you get enough sleep, so you can be energetic and alert for your interview.

A note to God

God please grant me the strength to love and accept myself for the person that I am and everything that I am striving to become. Each and every day, and in every way, I am getting better.

5 Promises To Me

*I promise myself to focus on eating healthy. In my high school days I longed to be one of those very svelte beauties that graced the cover of every fashion magazine, however as I aged my desire to be thin diminished. I would be most content at a Phat and fit size 12 or 14. I'm not incredibly far off from this now, but I do have some weight I would like to loose and some toning that is absolutely needed. I believe feeling good in your skin, and being satisfied in your mind brings forth a great amount of sex appeal.




*I promise to allow myself time each day to read at least 10 pages of the many books I have recently purchased and not set aside time to read. Reading is comforting to my soul, and it stimulates thoughts and feelings that I find very gratifying.



*I promise to share one afternoon each week alone with my mother. She has sometimes been overbearing in my life, however she has always stood by my side even when I didn't want her there. I don't believe I ever took the time to acknowledge and thank her for that, and do believe I should start.



*I promise to allow myself the freedom to just be me. I am a thinker, a little awkward, and probably a little more nerdy, as I was growing up, than I care to admit. I still deep down enjoy those silly things that people associate with the un-cool, but as you get older it stops being un-cool.

*I promise to allow myself to cry and heal my soul. I have always, throughout my life, been an emotional eater, and would rather smother my feelings with food than have a complete melt down. At this juncture in my life, I'm feeling overwhelmed and need to deal with things head on.

Girl Talk

** A Lovely Quote **

...The companions of our childhood always possess a certain power over our minds which hardly any later friend can obtain. - MARY SHELLEY

Cool Idea - The Old Shoes

You know all those old shoes your about to throw out, or are having a problem parting with, here is a really cool and different alternative you may want to endeavour. Put them on a shelf or ledge, fill them with dirt and some really appealing annuals. Voila - you have art! When the summer is over, you can discard them, just as you would have in the first place, however you got to enjoy them for a few more months.

Recipe - Hoisin Glazed Salmon

2 Tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce

1 1/2 Tablespoons hoisin sauce

1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce

2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger root

1/3 clove garlic, pressed

2 teaspoons olive oil

2 (6 oz ) salmon fillets

* Whisk together all ingredients in bowl. In small baking dish place salmon fillets. Pour marinade

on top of salmon and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

* Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) Remove plastic wrap and with spoon, drizzle

marinade over salmon. Bake on middle rack of preheated oven approx. 30 min. or until

salmon flakes easily with fork.

* Serve with some julienne cut veggies and rice.

* Calories: 382 Total Fat: 23.1g Cholesterol: 99mg Sodium: 848 mg Carbs: 6.9g Protein: 34.6g

* Serving size is 1 (6 oz) fillet.

NOTE: This recipe is fantastic, it is sweet and spicy - just the way I like it - with an Asian flair.

The Mammogram

Well, today I had my first mammogram, and I must say it was quite an awkward event. I never knew my breast could be mashed up in the manner that they were. I'm quite surprised they bounced back considering the aggressive pancake making process they went through. It was like being man-handled, but from a woman and a machine. Actually, in all reality, it is a very necessary procedure that women approaching middle age must go through. The woman taking the x-rays and groping my breast was actually very professional and understanding of just how embarrassing this procedure can be for some, and although I was uncomfortable I did it, and I would do it again if needed. Breast cancer is serious, and better caught early on. So ladies, examine your breasts! If your somewhere close to 40, schedule a mammogram or speak to your doctor.

Feeling Lonely

Just a beautiful picture I came across, and it made me feel kind of sad, yet peaceful. Not all days are happy ones, but taking note of something beautiful makes pain a little more tolerable.

Gotta Get My Move On!!!

I'm sincerely hoping this posting will motivate me, first with a visual, with taking a really nice brisk walk in the morning. Exercise is important at any size and any age, so it's time for me to get in motion. Hopefully everyone reading this will find some inspiration as well.

Flowers, Flowers, Everywhere

There is nothing better than looking at a fresh field of flowers. It reminds me of when I was a kid and my sisters and I would play hooky and spend the day in the park, and down along the river. We would just hang out for hours, running free, playing together and talking. I remember the smell of the wind gently blowing through the flowers and of the park's fresh cut grass. I love those smells, now, just as much as I did then. I wish I could still spend some of my days like that.

Scrub a Dub, Dub...

Do you want to exfoliate your skin, and create a more lovable, soft, kissable you? You don't have to buy expensive store bought body scrubs. You may have some ingredients you can use in your home. I use sugar, grape seed oil, and essential oil to make my own scrub. For example, I put about 1/2 cup of sugar in a bowl and I cover it with the grape seed oil so that the oil pools slightly around the top of the sugar, then I add some drops of essential oil like lavender and rosemary, just until it reaches the smell I prefer. You can play with different essential oils to achieve different smells. If you don't like using sugar, substitute it with sea salt. If you don't like grape seed oil, use any carrier oil such as almond oil. I like using this because it's environmentally friendly, cost efficient and relationship savvy, meaning it smells great and is delectable when kissed. Just rub this on your skin and gently massage in small circles to exfoliate, and rinse off in the shower. Also when using this you will find no need to use body lotions, your skin will feel smooth and soft for hours.

Treat Yourself

Take a much needed time out. Treat yourself to a relaxing picnic in your favorite spot. Take a loved one, a friend, or a lover. Or, you can spend the afternoon alone, laying on a blanket under a tree reading a good book. Let the sun warm your face, and run barefoot through the grass. Life's too short, play a little, or learn to relax a little - which ever you are forgetting to do.

Plus Modelling 101

Are you interested in becoming a plus size model? Well, we thought we would throw you some helpful hints about the business. Preparation and Grooming is everything when it comes to plus size modelling. Physical appearance and a well proportioned, toned body is vital even at a plus size. So keep a daily exercise routine in place like walking or yoga. Keep your finger and toenails manicured and with light neutral colours or french polished. Your hair should be stylish, trendy and well kept, and skin should be clear, smooth and hydrated. So be sure to eat healthy and get plenty of rest. Straight white teeth are a must, and make-up should be subtle and flattering. A plus models style should be trendy and current but not extreme. For example, no extreme hair design, piercings, or tattoos.

Some Agency Requirements

Height should range from 5'8'' to 6'0''
Beautiful face and bone structure
clear, healthy skin
toned body
age ranging from teens to middle aged
average dress size is between 12 and 16
high fashion plus is usually size 8 to 10

Submission of Photos

A good modelling agency will never ask you for money. If a modelling agency asks for money to obtain photos, a portfolio or modelling classes, you need to find another agency!! Good agencies will never charge you anything directly. If they feel you need guidance they will suggest a good photographer. They will only advise you, not charge you.
When submitting photos to an agency you can simply use the camera that you currently have, they do not need to be professional photos. Take a clear shot of your face, wearing subtle or little make-up, and keeping hair simple, and take a photo of your entire body. Wear clothing that is fitted and clean lined, to show your figure. Do not pose nude!! These pictures will be disposed of immediately. Keep your attire classy and trendy, and if you have great legs you may want to wear a classy short skirt or shorts. Remember, the people looking at these pictures are skilled professionals. They know what you will look like after a make-up artist and stylist get done with you. They judge your bone structure, features and body proportions.
If an agency turns you down, try another. Several plus size supermodels were turned down by an agency or two. If you don't fit the criteria of what agencies are looking for, and feel you still have that beautiful something try submitting photos for a commercial model. Commercial models come in all shapes, sizes and from many cultural backgrounds. Never stop following your dream.

Two Model Agencies in Ontario Canada With Plus Divisions

b&m Models
web: http://www.bnmmodels.com/
e-mail: info@bnmmodels.com

Ford Model Management
web: http://www.fordmodels.com/
e-mail: JPLYLEY@FORDMODELS.COM

Post: written by Yvette Atkinson for Phat Girl Fanclub.

Romance Starts with Loving Yourself

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  Romance is a colourful array of unforgettable interactions that define what truly make a relationship prosper. It can be depicted as a state of splendor which, with great imagination, can create the music of life. It is an essential part of a relationship and it is those little messages of gratitude and true appreciation for one another that make a world of difference. Love is that zest that we sprinkle on top, and most importantly, what we all strive to achieve. It is that feeling and knowledge that you are unique and have found yourself in another. Knowing that in unity, every task becomes easier and that every growing moment strengthens those bonds.
  
  Since we all strive for love and acceptance it is imperative to acknowledge that this all starts at home, meaning you. You cannot give what you do not have, and you also cannot fully receive what you do not possess. In short, if you do not love and accept yourself, you cannot give love or acceptance nor can you receive it from another. If you are angry, insecure, or depressed these feelings will dominate your relationship and inhibit romance entirely. Loving and accepting yourself does not come easy to all of us, sometimes it is a simple learning process. There are five steps to learning: Writing - this causes thinking : Thinking - this creates an image : Image - this causes feeling : Feelings - these control our actions : and Actions - actions create results. So you may write that you love and accept yourself in every way, and eventually those words will snowball through the learning process and create a more lovable you. Make this part of your daily routine and take time to make note of the good you do, and the beauty you create. It will make a world of difference in the development of self.
  
  The five steps of learning are taken from LELAND VANDEWALL.
  
  Post written by Yvette Atkinson for Phat Girl Fanclub.
  

Clothes - Pear Shape

Plus Size Dress; by Baby Phat.

Clothes - Pear Shape

Alfani Plus Ruffled Neckline Drop-Waist top from Macy's.

Michael Kors plus Flare Jean from Macy's.

What to Wear when your a Pear

The average women's body is shaped like a pear meaning that your shoulders and bust line are smaller than you hips and bottom. This is a very feminine body type and can be accentuated beautifully with the proper clothing. The goal is to create balance. In order to do this brighter, or pattern type tops can be worn, or those which add volume like cowl necks or ruffles. For the lower half of the body, which is the larger portion, darker solid colours should be worn as the will minimize and slim out the hips, bottom, and legs. Avoid trousers or jeans that are too tight in the leg as they will only make legs look larger. Stick to a straight cut or boot leg and if you are relatively short stay away from a cuff at the bottom of your pants. This will make your legs appear shorter. For dresses and skirts stick to smooth lines that are slightly loose to keep it clean lined and slimming. Avoid bold patterns on lower half, ruffles or too much volume, or very snug skirts. A good choice that also elongates the body is a wrap dress. The most important thing you want to remember is flatter your assets. If you have beautiful shoulders, choose a top that shows off this feature, and because you have a smaller waist, you can dress this asset with a variety of belts, chains, or wraps. To polish off your ensemble you want to keep your shoes slim and sleek. Avoid chunky shoes, this will shorten legs and may look frumpy depending on the outfit. I've developed a taste for name brand fashion, however I have had some problems finding them in plus sizes as I am sure you have as well. My solution is Macy's. Some of the name brands in plus sizes are: Calvin Klein; Inc International Concepts; Jones New York; Lauren by Ralph Lauren; MICHAEL Michael Kors; Tommy Hilfiger; Style & co; Apple Bottoms, and many more.

Quick Beauty Tip

Having a date night and noticed you also have a new friend on your chin. To banish the redness in blemishes use a drop of visine, yes the eye drops. It not only cures red eyes it also cures the redness in blemishes.

Recipe - Summer Fresh

Don't feel like cooking over a hot stove. Beat the summer heat by keeping it cool, fun and fresh. Try an Arugula & Strawberry Salad..

4 Handfuls of Arugula, 2 cups sliced strawberries, 1/2 cup toasted almonds, and 1 cup goat cheese crumbles.

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  For the Dressing: 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp honey, 2 tsp water, 2 tsp lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix together using a wisk and pour over salad. If this dressing doesn't do it for you try Kraft poppyseed dressing it compliments this salad well. This salad can be nicely served up with a bowl of soup and a stick of french bread with cheese.

Plus Model Magazine

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Click on the above link to learn about plus size modelling or subscribing to plus magazine

The Beginning

I would like to welcome everyone to Phat Girl Fanclub. This blog is all about being a real, averaged sized women. Lets face it, the average women these days is not a size 2,3,4,5, or 6, she is most likely to be a size 10-12, and a large percentage of today's women are size 14+. So to all those women who don't look like a vogue model, I'm telling you, your just perfect the way you are. I am a plus size woman and consider myself Phat and fit!! I love fashion, make-up, healthy living and eating, minus the chocolate addiction, and all that is girlish. I'm always searching for new and refreshing information and motivation on the web, as well as information on plus modelling. I will be sharing this information and my thoughts with any followers, and would love for you to post any ideas, pictures or stories.