Most of you have read my weight loss story and are aware of my success, and struggles. Today, I hit a bump in the road and found myself stuck in another body image slump. When I started this blog, I wanted to be honest with my readers and share my story, tips, recipes, struggles, and frustrations, so today I will share with you what I have been struggling with for the past few months.

Got a tres chic “Eat Rabbit Food” bracelet made from a street vendor at Fisherman’s Wharf when I was in San Francisco this weekend!

 I feel like I have been “dieting” for so long that losing weight is extremely easy for me. To my surprise, maintaining my weight is the real challenge. I know exactly what it takes to consistently lose weight, but maintaining is a whole different story. After I had lost a substantial amount of weight and wanted to start toning, I began to research, and read so many different theories about gaining muscle that it was enough to make my head spin. I had no idea which solution would work for me, weather it was a high protein low fat or low carb diet, weight training, resistance training… ahhh! I started adding more protein into my diet, but along with the protein came extra calories, which quickly turned into too many. I really struggled with finding a perfect balance to keep my weight stable while gaining muscle. Although I finally figured out what combination worked for me, it was a frustrating battle. During this time, I gained 5lbs, which was extremely discouraging for me. This was the first time I saw my weight go up since the start of my weight loss. Even though it was a small amount of weight, my obsession with the number on the scale was still present. I became depressed and stressed, not wanting to go out with friends or see anyone in fear of them noticing my “weight gain.” I was disappointed in myself for working so hard for so long and then “slipping up.” Even with the praise and encouragement of others, I could not be happy or content with my weight; it was purely mental. This was around the same time that I started to severely restrict my diet before turning my habits around.

Knowing how obsessive I can get about dieting, I wanted to let myself indulge and enjoy the holidays this past year. Over Christmas, Sam came to visit for a couple of weeks and I allowed myself to go out to dinner with him and actually enjoy food. It was still an uncomfortable struggle to eat a normal meal at a restaurant and not feel guilty or restrict afterwards. After Sam returned to Texas, I got back to my regular routine of healthy home cooked meals and felt very proud of myself for getting back on track and not having one ounce of guilt from the food I had consumed over the holidays. A week later I went to Texas to spend new years with Sam, and then flew to Denver with him and his family to go skiing. I had so much anxiety on this ski trip because of my eating habits. I didn’t want to look like the crazy girl with food issues, but I’m sure it was showing full force. I can’t eat like my 6’5 friend or his 6’6 brother and other tall athletic family members. I tried so hard to enjoy the vacation, but I was constantly thinking about food and counting ever calorie in my head. It was exhausting, but I couldn’t let go of it and enjoy myself in fear of gaining weight during the trip. After I returned home to Los Angeles, I could not get back to my regular routine. I was angry, and annoyed with myself that I could not get back to my healthy eating and exercise routine, and then I was even more upset with myself for letting this whole thing get to me. It was a terrible few weeks of self-hatred and disappointment, and it was all caused by food. After I finally got back on track and felt my clothes fitting again, along came a whirl of celebrations and events. My grandpa’s birthday, sister’s birthday, Valentine’s day, mom’s birthday, launch of my blog, trip to Japan, and trip to San Francisco all happened from January to April. It seemed like every week I had a commitment and I had no time for myself. I became stressed beyond belief, but was working on allowing myself to indulge without regret or anxiety at every affair. I noticed my weight starting to rise, but continued to exercise when I was home, and tried my hardest to cook balanced healthy meals. I wanted to be at peace with food and allow myself to celebrate and enjoy.

How cute are these veggies phone charms that I got from Japan? The Japanese never fail to make healthy foods cute.

When I arrived home from Japan , I noticed that my clothes were much tighter and I was uncomfortable, even in my favorite outfits. I stepped on the scale and noticed a significant weight gain. Once again my obsession with the number came back. If you remember how depressed and angry I felt after the first 5lbs I gained after my weight loss, you could only imagine how I felt at this time. I became ashamed of myself, embarrassed, and most of all; sad. I spent a majority of my days looking at myself in the mirror and thinking about how much I hated myself and my body. I was angry and started snapping at my friends, family all because I felt unhappy with my body. I hate that this has so much control over me. I don’t want my weight to affect my happiness anymore. I am not being fair to myself by letting food, weight, and body image get to me the way it does.

After an impromptu trip to San Francisco last week, I decided it was time for a change because “if you do not change, you will remain the same,” and I cannot sit around and be depressed about my body anymore. There are so many other things to be excited and happy about. After eating our way through San Francisco, my friend Erica, her sister Cece, and I watched the documentary Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead together. The film is about an Australian man who juices for 60 days to reboot his system, heal the inside of his body, and lose weight. If you haven’t seen this movie already, you should definitely check it out. I have actually watched it twice before, but this time (third time is a charm, right?) it really struck something in me. Since I love a challenge and love to prove others and even myself wrong, so I am taking the juice challenge to cleanse my system of toxins, refresh my palette, and give my body the vitamins and minerals that it has been craving after months of celebrating. I am not sure how long I will juice, but I am excited to try different recipes and document/share my honest emotions and thoughts each day of the challenge. Since many people think that healthy eating is expensive, I’ll try to find the most affordable way to get the tastiest juices possible!

Last night I went to whole foods and found  a bunch of bottled juices on sale for 2 for $5, so I bought 6 of them, and then emptied the contents, removed the labels, and cleaned the bottles in preparation for my homemade juices.

Tonight, I am going to Erica’s house to create my first round of juices, and then starting tomorrow, Rabbit Food For My Bunny Teeth is going allllll liquid! Of course I will transition back to my fun Rabbit Food Pyramid meals after the challenge, but for right now, I need to take some time for myself to get back to where I was when I started this blog. If anyone else is interested in joining in on the juicing challenge, leave me a comment! Even swapping out one snack/meal per day with juice could be a great healthy start!

To prepare for my juice challenge, I am drinking Green Monsters and tons of water all day today! This recipe is based off of my original green smoothie with the addition of pineapple and more mint!

Green Monster:
makes 3 servings

1 cup fresh orange juice
1 cup almond milk
1 bunch kale
1 frozen ripe banana (peel and freeze beforehand)
1 cup frozen mango
1 cup frozen pineapple
1 cup of mint leaves (I use one small package from Whole Foods)

Start off by combing orange juice and almond milk with kale and blend until smooth. Then add the frozen banana, mango, pineapple, and mint leaves. Blend until thick and smooth, pour into 3 glass jars and enjoy. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.


Question:
What do you do when you are having a bad day? How do you get re-inspired to get healthy and stay on track?

58 Comments on Frustration

  1. Leanne T
    April 30, 2012 at 3:45 pm (12 years ago)

    Hi Catherine,
    Your candid honesty is so heartfelt, I couldn’t help but send you a comment of encouragement! I love your blog and think you are doing an amazing job, your recipies are great and I have started incorporating some of them into my diet! I am excited for you and look forward to trying some your juicing recipies too:) Please don’t be too hard on yourself and know that you are doing all of the right things to take care of yourself.
    Leanne

    Reply
    • Catherine
      April 30, 2012 at 3:53 pm (12 years ago)

      Thank you so much Leanne! I really appreciate the encouragement 🙂 It mean a lot to me!
      I really focused on taking a step back and not being too hard on myself over the Holidays, which was going great! Unfortunately I have bad days, but I am working to get through my hurdles in a healthy way and with the help of my readers and this blog! Thank you so much for reading. I am so happy that you have been enjoying the recipes! xoxo

      Reply
  2. Vanessa G
    April 30, 2012 at 3:51 pm (12 years ago)

    I totally understand how you feel. Running usually does the trick, but sometimes its not enough. Many times I have to turn on my radio and listen to my music, or read my Bible, or just pray. Its then I realize that my bad day is nothing compared to a real bad day. No # should make me angry or sad. However, it can and does. But when I see myself through Gods eyes, he sees my heart, not my weight ; I then turn my frown around.

    Reply
    • Catherine
      April 30, 2012 at 3:56 pm (12 years ago)

      Hi Vanessa! Running is a great way to release frustration/negative energy and free your mind. Sometimes I forget how calming music can be as well. It’s nice to turn on a great playlist and just relax! I think I am going to do that tonight, actually! And I definitely agree, my bad day is nothing! Thank you for your tips on how to get through it all! xo

      Reply
  3. Margo
    April 30, 2012 at 4:48 pm (12 years ago)

    On bad days I try to just think about how tomorrow is a new day and a fresh start to turn things around. It like getting a blank slate every morning, and even thinking that your next meal you can do better is encouraging. Making a great, healthy lunch or dinner and working out can make all the difference in a day.

    And music. And writing out how you feel 🙂

    Reply
    • Catherine
      April 30, 2012 at 11:37 pm (12 years ago)

      Thank you so much for your support and input Margo! I have been trying really hard to move past the bad days and think about the next day as a new beginning. And I agree, healthy meals and exercise make a huge difference! xo

      Reply
  4. Ximena Orozco
    April 30, 2012 at 5:13 pm (12 years ago)

    Hola Dear Catherine, I think all women can relate to your story. I remember being 20 pounds heavier than today.. I kept that weight for around 10 year until finally 6 years ago I decided enough was enough. Once I lost the weight I was feeling just like you.. every time I had a normal meal I felt I had gained the whole 20 pounds again… I knew how to get back on track it’s just that sometimes it is hard to keep up.
    What worked out for me was throwing absolutely all my old clothes.. so my parameter was different, this time when my clothes felt tight I was 3 sizes down from before, but it kept me motivating myself to keep the weight off!!.. I met a girl who actually became a great friend and she tough me how to be friends with food and exercise.. today I don’t obsess anymore.. just a little bit hahahah!! love you, you are brave, you are beautiful, and you will totally meet the challenge, no doubt in my mind!!

    Reply
    • Catherine
      April 30, 2012 at 11:44 pm (12 years ago)

      Hola Ximena! Congratulations on getting fit and healthy and maintaining! I have a whole new respect for people who can maintain a steady weight, because I had no idea how challenging it could be. I couldn’t agree with you more, every time I eat a large meal or out at a restaurant, my mind goes crazy and I assume that I am going to gain all of the weight back. It has been a constant struggle, but like you said enough is enough, time to change that! I am so happy that you have found a way to become friends with food and exercise, I am focusing on building the same healthy relationship! Besos! xoxo

      Reply
  5. Autism United
    May 1, 2012 at 8:43 am (12 years ago)

    As always great post. Keep up the hard work and good luck!

    Reply
    • Catherine
      May 1, 2012 at 12:03 pm (12 years ago)

      Thank you! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  6. Grisel
    May 1, 2012 at 3:57 pm (12 years ago)

    I totally understand you, and it is really difficult to keep your weight goal in check when you are trying to have fun and be social. On my bad days I do Zumba twice a day, it makes me feel in control and because I am not at the weight I try to keep my heart rate around 170 for about 30 minutes making my calorie burn almost 800 in one hour 🙂
    I will try your green smoothie for breakfast and see if I can accelerate my weight lost. I think I will accept the challenge to go liquid with you (I have never done it) but it will be fun to do it if you post more smoothie recipes 🙂
    So be strong and healthy!!!

    Ciao

    Reply
    • Catherine
      May 1, 2012 at 10:59 pm (12 years ago)

      I haven’t tried Zumba but I need to! I heard it is so much fun! Let me know how you like the green smoothie! Day 1 of juicing was a success, but my recipes were definitely trial and error, so I’ll be perfecting them! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  7. Grisel
    May 3, 2012 at 9:52 am (12 years ago)

    OK I try the green monster minus the banana and it was delicious!!! even my husband try it and approved. I will try another one for dinner.

    Reply
    • Catherine
      May 3, 2012 at 11:01 am (12 years ago)

      That’s fabulous! I can’t believe you got your hubby to try too! How exciting 🙂 Keep up the healthy eating! xo

      Reply
  8. Hanna
    June 17, 2012 at 10:20 am (12 years ago)

    Catherine, I absolutely love your blog. I was in search of inspiration, and that is exactly what you provided. I have been on a roller coaster of healthy eating, fitness, and then completely falling off the wagon. I’m excited to start fresh, and I am definitely going to give juicing a try.

    Reply
    • Catherine
      June 17, 2012 at 12:17 pm (12 years ago)

      Awww thank you so much, Hanna! Never give up and already remember that everyday is a new day and you are one step closer than you were yesterday! You are not alone on your journey and I’m so happy that I could inspire you. I cannot wait to hear about all of your accomplishments 🙂 Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  9. Katherine
    June 25, 2012 at 2:49 pm (12 years ago)

    Hey Catherine! I just found your blog today and I’m IN LOVE. I’ve been unhappy about my weight and my body for a long time and I have decided to make a change. I just don’t have much motivation. 🙁 but your blog has definitely inspired me to want to be healthy and get in shape. You’re beautiful and I thank you for creating this amazing blog. Sincerely, Katherine.

    P.S. i LOVE you’re name. 😉

    Reply
    • Catherine
      June 25, 2012 at 4:53 pm (12 years ago)

      Awww I am so happy that you found my blog Katherine! And I love that you said “P.S. i LOVE your name” because I say that to every other Catherine/Katherine/Kathryn that I meet! hahaha that totally made my day, you’re adorable! I am so glad that you have four inspiration and motivation from my blog! Keep up your positive attitude and mindset, and I am confident you will meet your goal! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  10. Kirstie
    June 28, 2012 at 8:00 pm (12 years ago)

    I LOVE your blog!!! i am at the very start of my weight loss journey. (less than a week in) Ive read your weight loss story and my numbers are almost exact with your except im shorter.=) Im going to try your thin mint shake, im very excited about it. Ive been drying my own fruit as well. My question is how do you balance your life with being fit and thin? I know i want it more than anything is too look in the mirror and feel good, but i remeber when i was younger and skinny, and wouldnt eat hardly anything, i was smaller but i never felt small, i feel like food is always on my mind and had to feel depressed to get skinny. do you have any advice to be able to remain happy and lose weight with out going to the depressed state?

    Reply
    • Catherine
      June 28, 2012 at 9:08 pm (12 years ago)

      Thank you so much, Kirstie! I am so happy you found my blog! Thats so awesome that you are drying your own fruit! I really want to start doing that 🙂 Like you, I am always really hard on myself when it comes to weight and body image, but when I am having bad days, I try to focus on parts of my body that I love, and sometimes I will even write a list of things that I am grateful for to remember how lucky I am to be healthy in the first place. While you are losing weight, think of it as a lifestyle change and not a diet. If you think of it as a diet you will only want what you “can’t have” and end up depriving yourself. Make your kitchen your favorite new restaurant and make cooking healthy meals fun! Try new foods and enjoy yourself! Losing weight can be really hard at times, but it should make you feel proud and healthy! Enjoy the journey with a positive mindset and remember that you’re one step closer than you were yesterday! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  11. Lindsey
    June 29, 2012 at 4:50 am (12 years ago)

    I have never been a blog reader bit you have me hooked!
    Well-designed blog with priceless information and encouragement. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Catherine
      June 29, 2012 at 10:09 am (12 years ago)

      Thank you so much Lindsay, that means so much to me 🙂 Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  12. missy
    June 29, 2012 at 8:49 am (12 years ago)

    Catherine,

    Hope you’re feeling better and happier. I just found your blog too, and love it. I have been a vegetarian for 15 years but now, married and an “adult”, feel like I have just found an unprocessed inspiration in your rabbit food pyramid and plan. Thanks for all the recipes, inspiration, and sharing your story. We all have bad image days, but it’s helpful to hear all these positive comments, and try to focus on that instead. 🙂

    Reply
    • Catherine
      June 29, 2012 at 10:25 am (12 years ago)

      Hi Missy! I am so happy you found my blog! That’s amazing that you have been vegetarian for 15 years! I can’t wait for you to try some new veggie recipes 🙂 Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  13. Laura
    July 1, 2012 at 7:54 am (12 years ago)

    Thank you for the honesty in this blog. I can relate to you and enjoy reading your posts. About 5 years ago I went from 140lbs to 120lbs (over about 6 months time). I keept that weight off for about 4 years. Now, over the past year I have gained back almost all of it (up to 136 lbs). I am pretty sure it was because of “stress eating.” I always feel like people are looking at me and thinking I am fat!!! I also find myself getting short and snappy with people I love (because ultimately I think that I am upset with myself). I have been reading your posts for easy vegetarian recipes. Thanks for being an inspiration.

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 1, 2012 at 10:25 am (12 years ago)

      HI Laura! I am so happy that you found my blog! Keep a positive mindset and focus on your goals! Always remember that you;re one step closer than you were yesterday and it only gets better from here! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  14. Livia
    July 2, 2012 at 5:51 pm (12 years ago)

    Hi, Catherine! You’re so sweet and I’m very glad I found your blog, it’s sooo inspiring.
    I’ve never had weight problems growing up, but it seems that all of it is catching up with me now 🙂 It’s been a year now since I first started eating healthy and exercising with pleasure – it’s wonderful when we get to see the changes in our bodies, right?
    I really love food and I allow myself to enjoy it, even if it means some extra pounds on the scale after the weekend. Of course I get angry with myself afterwards, haha, but what the heck. Monday morning I’ll always be at the gym, sweating everything out 🙂
    To re-inspire myself, I like to buy some new gym clothes (when i can, haha), find new recipes, and – my newest pleasure – look at blogs/tumblrs like yours. Those things really get me going.
    So thank you for sharing all of this amazing things with us!
    Lots of luck on this healthy path you’re on. As long as you love yourself, everything will be just fine:)
    Greetings aaall the way from Brazil!

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 2, 2012 at 6:09 pm (12 years ago)

      Hi Livia! I am so happy that you found my blog, you are so sweet! Your positive mindset will bring you so much success 🙂 Keep up the amazing work, you’re amazing! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  15. Taylor
    July 3, 2012 at 11:16 am (12 years ago)

    Hey Catherine,

    Thank you so much for finally posting REAL food-related problems and showing positive ways to solve and live with them. I suffer from a vicious cycle of anorexia athletica, so eating healthy is a huge part of my life. I struggle to maintain a weight of 120 for an athletic 5’6” frame, but have managed to stay the same weight for almost 6 months now. I also know how difficult maintaining is and i just want you to know you’re not alone even in the slightest. I’m stoked to see real people sharing such amazing stories! You’re fantastic! Thanks!

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 3, 2012 at 12:05 pm (12 years ago)

      Hi Taylor! Thank you so much for the kind words, I really appreciate it! WeightLoss/BodyImage/EDs are such universal subjects yet so personal and different at at the same time. I hope that my blog can help others on their way to recovery and for the rest of their journey! Here are a couple of ED related blogs that I found very helpful and inspiring Healthy Happy Whole and ED Bites. I am so proud of you for maintaining your weight for 6 months, that is a huge accomplishment! Although it’s not a fun struggle, I am glad to know that I am not alone! I have great days where something just clicks and I feel fantastic but then I also have my very bad days that feel like a black hole. It’s something that I live with and know I can get through with the support of my family, friends, and amazing readers like you! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  16. Emily
    July 3, 2012 at 8:21 pm (12 years ago)

    I know this is an old post, but I couldn’t help but comment and say how much I appreciate you writing this. I feel like I could have written every single word! It’s nice to know that I’m not the only one who feels this way, and that it isn’t so easy for everyone else.

    I just finished a 10 day fast after watching Joe Cross’ movie. Unfortunately, I didn’t come off it so well since the first day off was a 4th of July BBQ full of unhealthy food. Bad timing! So I decided to do another 4 days this week, just to refresh.

    Thanks again for this post and your entire blog. I have really enjoyed reading it!

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 3, 2012 at 11:41 pm (12 years ago)

      Hi Emily! I am so happy that you found my blog and that you can relate to my story and post! I really appreciate the kind words 🙂
      That’s amazing that you did a 10 day juice fast! I would love to do it for longer, I felt so healthy and energized after I did my juice fast/cleanse! Thank you so much for reading my blog! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  17. Bailey
    July 4, 2012 at 11:20 pm (12 years ago)

    Hi Catherine! I just spent the past couple hours reading through your blog and found it so refreshing. You are raw and real about your emotions and feelings and more girls need to be open about these struggles. It is a passion of mine to reach out to girls who battle with body image/insecurity issues (as I have (and do) struggled with them myself). I believe that if women were more open about these issues that we could all fight together against these pressures the media puts on us. I have actually refused to buy a scale because I don’t want to be consumed with numbers any more. Everytime I do weigh myself I just get depressed and feel silly. It’s not about the numbers it’s about how you feel. Anyway – just wanted to say I appreciate you’re vulnerability and will continues to keep reading your blog.

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 5, 2012 at 2:25 pm (12 years ago)

      Hi Bailey! Thank you so much for your comment and kind words. It can be so scary or embarrassing to share struggles with body image and weight, but this is the reason I share my story for millions of others to read. I am so glad that my blog has made a positive impact on other girls who are going through similar things. Thank you for reading, I’m so happy you found my blog! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  18. Jen
    July 5, 2012 at 7:25 am (12 years ago)

    Hey Catherine. I just found your blog on Pinterest. I am currently in the “Im still unhappy with my body and obsessing about my calories”. I have lost over 50 lbs and kept it off for 2 years now, but I still see the fat girl. Its a daily process and I am trying to get to a point where I enjoy my food and my body. It is a relief to know that someone else struggles with the same thing, and is HONEST about it. Thank you for your open-ness and inspiration. Jen

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 5, 2012 at 2:19 pm (12 years ago)

      Hi Jen, thank you so much for sharing your story with me! Although it’s not a fun struggle it’s nice to know that we are not alone and that there are so many others who struggle with the exact same thing. I am not perfect and still working on having a positive body image and relationship with food, but I always try to think that I have more good days than bad! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  19. Jen
    July 5, 2012 at 7:58 am (12 years ago)

    Hi!

    I just stumbled upon your website in my quest to start eating “clean.” Over the past year I have lost 20 pounds by running and “watching” what I eat- but I feel as if I have hit a plateau and would like to lose another 5 to reach my goal and as you eluded to – MAINTAIN my weight and not obsess over it. Thank you for all the wonderful recipes, I am really looking forward to eating healthier and getting my husband and 3 year old son to as well (and maybe not even telling them about the switch!)

    Thanks again for your inspiration and guidance through sharing your journey! Keep these recipes coming!!

    Jen

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 5, 2012 at 2:16 pm (12 years ago)

      Thank you so much for your sweet comment Jenn! I am so happy you found my blog! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  20. Kelly Ann~
    July 5, 2012 at 8:15 am (12 years ago)

    Love that bracelet- by chance did you get his card- or email address. I would LOVE to order a bracelet with my daughter name–

    Let me know-Love your blog btw–

    Kel

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 5, 2012 at 2:15 pm (12 years ago)

      Hi Kel! So funny, someone just asked me the same question on Facebook! You are in luck because I snapped a picture of the man’s information on his vendor cart when I was in SF! He was located near Ghirardelli Square and makes rings, bracelets, etc. He had a couple different styles of bracelets, so it could help to email a photo of mine (and the size of your wrist). I hope that his contact information hasn’t changed i the past couple of months! P.S. I did not catch his name 🙁
      xo

      Email: shmily880219@hotmail.com
      Phone: (415) 987-4892

      Reply
  21. Celia
    July 7, 2012 at 12:36 pm (12 years ago)

    Hey Catherine, I just wanted to say thank you for running this blog. You seem like a really beautiful person inside and out, and you’re such an inspiration to me! I just recently lost 30 lbs and am about 8 lbs away from my goal of 130. However I’m worried about maintaining too and I don’t want to get too scale obsessed, especially since I’m getting ready to study in Sweden next semester. New country, new culture, and I don’t want to miss out on their cuisine (not to mention I’m not sure what my food options will be like) but I don’t want to gain the weight back either! It’s tough for us girls who actually have to work to be skinny and fit! But I’m so glad that I started getting healthy, and I often look to your blog for tips and inspiration. So, again, thank you! You are helping me change my life. 🙂

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 7, 2012 at 1:14 pm (12 years ago)

      Hi Celia! First of all congratulations on losing 30lbs!!! OMG That is amazing! Thank you so much for sharing your story with me! Just know that you are not the only one who worries about these types of things! It can be really confusing and hard to figure out what the right amount of meals, snacks, and calories are to maintain your new physique. Keep doing what you’re doing and when you are abroad, pay close attention to portion sizes 🙂 Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  22. Andy
    July 10, 2012 at 8:24 am (12 years ago)

    Hi Catherine! I just found your blog and I have really enjoyed reading it. You have so many wonderful recipes – I can’t wait to try them all. I can totally relate to the weight struggles you described above – especially with regards to trying to gain muscle. I’m sure you have heard this before, but in case other readers have not, I wanted to remind everyone that muscle does weigh more than fat. So when you start trying to increase your muscle mass (which will provide that awesome toned look), of course the scale is going to go up. Instead of focusing on how the scale is changing, I would encourage anyone trying to buil muscle to just throw out the scale for a month and just focus on how you feel and observe the changes in your body. I know that is easier said than done though! If you haven’t already checked out LittleB’s blog, you totally should! She has a lot of helpful advice for how to put muscle mass on. Here is the link: http://www.littlebshealthyhabits.com/ Hope you are still succeeding in your fitness journey and thanks so much for making this amazing blog 🙂 xo

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 10, 2012 at 1:31 pm (12 years ago)

      Hi Andy! Thank you SO much for your wonderful comment and tips about gaining muscle! You mentioned some really important points about muscle and the scale that everyone could benefit from 🙂 I have not seen Little B’s blog but I am going to check it out right now! Thank you so much for reading! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  23. Caroline
    July 10, 2012 at 6:30 pm (12 years ago)

    You have the Cartier love bracelet! So jealous! Always wanted one of those.

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 10, 2012 at 11:46 pm (12 years ago)

      Yesss I love my bracelet 🙂 It’s very special to me!

      Reply
  24. Devin
    July 13, 2012 at 1:46 pm (12 years ago)

    I’ve spent the past hour and a half on your blog here reading your stories and feeling inspired. I have also had weight problems throughout my life. From school pictures I have drawn the conclusion that my weight started becoming an issue sometime between fourth and fifth grade. I would say that I was overweight, but not ever obese. After going to college (and sometimes being too poor to eat like I did at home) I actually lost about 10 lbs. I was on the track to weight loss when I discovered I was pregnant with my daughter. That was in February of 2008. Three years later, after having two babies, both cecearian births, I found that I had gained a substantial amount of weight. When I weighed the same amount that I did when I was full-term prego with my kids, I decided it was time to make a serious change. My New Year’s Resolution this year was to become healthier … and I have definitely achieved that! I have quit smoking cigarettes, stopped drinking soda and sugary beverages, and started eating better (portion control and some self-control concerning sugary snacks). I’m not much into exercising, but I do try to be active on a daily basis. So far I have lost over 45lbs and have gone from BMI 29.4 (borderline OBESE!) to BMI 22.7, well within my healthy weight range! Now, my success is judged more by what I see in the mirror rather than what I see when I step on the scale … though stepping on the scale is something I enjoy, now, too! 🙂 Thanks for sharing your story and your struggles – you are not alone!! <3

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 13, 2012 at 3:38 pm (12 years ago)

      WOW Devin that is AMAZING! Congratulations on losing 45lbs, that is amazing and you should be so proud of yourself! I am so happy that you found my blog! Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  25. Salena
    July 13, 2012 at 5:46 pm (12 years ago)

    I knew I’d find the right blog for what I’m feeling. Thank you!! After trying (which I know “trying” is an excuse to fail), your cleanse for the past two days I learned that eating badly makes me feel badly and that when I feel stressed I turn to the first carb-packed food I can find. So here I am on my third try (a charm, right?) and I feel great. There’s only one problem….I’m really not enjoying the Greek yogurt and felt deprived at lunch. I thought about a burger but instead added some tuna and a ton of fresh spinach (with some whole wheat bread and a lil mayo) to my lunch. I figured it was a “better” choice and a step in the right direction. So I broke the cleanse…What are your thoughts about this and any instances where we are tempted and might experience moments of failure? If only you knew how much your blog and experiences are getting me through these first steps to a healthier me. 🙂

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 13, 2012 at 6:17 pm (12 years ago)

      Hi Salena! I am so proud of your for taking the hardest step towards a healthier you: deciding it’s time for change! Weight loss is different for everyone and everyone struggles with different things! My cleanse is a great way to get on track, but it’s also not for everyone. If you can’t stick with the cleanse, don’t beat yourself up about it! For me, I am better at getting back on track from an indulgent vacation with a very specific eating plan or cleanse, but others do better slowly easing into a new diet and gradually swapping certain meals for smoothies or healthier options one day at a time. I love that you mentioned making a salad loaded with spinach and tuna! That was an amazing choice and I am so very proud of you! It’s really easy to give in to cravings and quick fixes that only satisfy us for a few minutes and leave us feeling awful later on, but you made a decision to choose something healthy! It may not have been part of the cleanse, but look at a “usual” day of meals that you used to eat compared to a day of cleanse/tuna salad! It’s probably a much healthier difference! Try slowly easing into your new healthy lifestyle by swapping one meal with a green smoothie or clean salad and gradually start trading all of your regular meals for healthier ones! Failure is such an awful feeling, but when you look at the big picture, you didn’t fail! You might not have eaten exactly how you planned for the day, but if you take a step back and look at the meals that you ate today, you ate pretty darn healthy! Keep up the great work and keep making healthy decisions! You are so strong and I am so proud of you!

      Health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  26. Emily
    July 13, 2012 at 6:32 pm (12 years ago)

    Can I ask where the instructions for your cleanse are? I didn’t see it on the site and I am totally looking for something like that to jump start my healthy eating again!

    Reply
  27. Alyssa
    July 17, 2012 at 6:01 am (12 years ago)

    Hi Catherine! This post really touched me, because I have been in this state of mind since I had my daughter..two years ago! I hated the way my body looked and the way I felt. I read a leadership book not too long ago when I was really in a funk and he had the quote “Not realizing what you want is a problem of knowledge. Not pursuing what you want is a problem of motivation. Not achieving what you want is a problem of persistence.” I think of that quote every day. I know what I want, I have found the motivation and I am learning the tools to achieve. This blog has been very helpful for me, thank you so much!

    Reply
    • Catherine
      July 17, 2012 at 9:37 am (12 years ago)

      Hi Alyssa! Thank you so much for sharing that quote with me! That is really wonderful 🙂 I am so happy you have found motivation and are on your way to achieving your goal! health & Happiness xo

      Reply
  28. Carolyn
    August 29, 2012 at 10:37 am (12 years ago)

    Hello Miss Catherine!

    I know this post is a little old, but somehow I just came across it today (and I stalk your website regularly!)

    This is exactly what I needed to read today. I, too, have been struggling with some weigh gain recently. I went vegan last year and in doing so, ended up losing about 15 pounds, which was amazing. I was working out quite a bit and being really concious of my food intake to egt the right amount of fiber, protein, etc.

    Then…I was like, hey, I miss dairy! Maybe I’ll just slide on over to the vegetarian camp instead and enjoy the finer things in life, because we all know greek yogurt makes everything better! Suddenly, and no joke, I have gained 20 pounds in the last year. Now, to be fair, I have been struggling with workout motivation and trying to find something that will recharge me and make me excited about working out again…and still haven’t found a new fitness love.

    So, after beating myself up the last three months and hating that none of my clothes fit right and the that I just feel…heavy…I found this post. And I am so glad to not be alone. You are always so inspirational and gracious to all of your readers. Thank you for being open and making me feel like I’m not a crazy person!

    I’m starting your Skinny Bunny Cleanse tomorrow and then resuming with full force a search for fun fitness. You are the greatest! Thanks, again. 🙂

    Reply
  29. Jackie
    August 30, 2012 at 3:18 pm (12 years ago)

    Catherine, you are beautiful. You have always been beautiful. Don’t let your self get sucked into another cycle of deprivation. You know what to do to be and stay healthy. Weight fluctuates along with life. Don’t let it ruin your happiness. You are an inspiring person. I hope you never feel the need to go back to that dark place again.

    PS. I know this is an old entry, I just felt like it still needed to be said. Everyone needs some encouragement sometimes. 🙂

    Reply
  30. Jill
    September 8, 2012 at 7:57 am (12 years ago)

    Hi there,
    Your blog is so interesting, I found myself reading post after post. I just showed my husband your ‘about page’ and we were so sad to find that your incredible weight loss turned into an obsession. Satan tries so hard to defeat people who are doing great things! We are both proud of you for fighting for your health- and most of all, for fighting for your happiness. You will be in my prayers. Remember that you are beautiful and capable of so much more than you think- don’t let anything steal your joy! xo, God Bless, Jill.

    Reply
  31. Rebecca
    September 14, 2012 at 11:54 am (12 years ago)

    Hi Catherine! I’m so glad I stumbled upon your site while going crazy on Pinterest. Your story about your weight loss journey is very inspiring and your recent post entitled “Frustration” hits really close to home. I’ve lost about 20 lbs. and have maintained it for about 5 years. For the past year, I’ve noticed that I’ve become obsessed with food, calorie counting, and having lots of ups and downs in terms of eating what I enjoy and restricting my intake when I feel I’ve been bad. I can definitely tell that I am in a vicious cycle of eating and restricting to the point where it has had an effect on my relationship with my significant other and my family. I am so fearful of gaining weight that I have made myself purge if I felt I’ve been bad. It gives me some hope to know that I’m not the only one who’s felt this way. I know I need to change, but it is so hard to get rid of the negative self image. How are you turning things around for yourself? How do you keep yourself from slipping back into being super restrictive and super hard on yourself?

    Reply

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