Connect the Dots Ginger | Becky Allen

Tuesday, April 12, 2016

When Is It Ok to Ask If A Woman Is Pregnant

As a plus size lady, many people really don't know/can't tell that I am pregnant. It is the whole "Is she pregnant or fat and getting fatter?" mindset. Which really sucks. Because honestly I really want to scream it from the rooftop that "HEY, I'M PREGNANT! YAY! Celebrate with me people!" (And I personally don't think I am fat at all. I am fit and healthy and doing what I need to do to keep my weight gain in check! I am proudly showing off my bump with form fitting tops!)

But there is a rule of thumb. Honestly, there is! I am hosting a FREE Healthy and Fit Mama's group and many of the ladies, haven't said one peep about being pregnant. (I don't know how they do that because I can not keep a secret like this quiet for long!)

So...have you ever asked a lady if she was pregnant? Then found out that she wasn't. (she is probably feeling pretty hurt and you are equally embarrassed!) I have a pretty good pregnant eye, and can spot when someone is, but I have learned my lesson to not ask that dreaded question. You never know what someone is going through.

So here is the rule of thumb:

DON'T ASK!

Most women are very insecure about their weight when it comes to being pregnant due to the rapid weight gain and their changing body. Some find themselves in a state of shock or panic to see the numbers rise and their midsection growing, so always be aware and sensitive to this fact.

When a woman is pregnant and is ready to tell you, she will. But don't go asking.

Want more daily motivation and inspiration? Click here get free advice, support and encouragement + a free copy of my Clean Eating guide to help you get started on your health and fitness journey! 

Monday, April 11, 2016

Find Your Tribe

Talk about a fun and exciting weekend away! So for those of you not following me on FACEBOOK or INSTAGRAM, I had the amazing opportunity to go to Miami for the weekend with 17 other fabulous ladies in our Pure Synergy Team. 16 of us qualified for the Synergy Diamond Retreat to be spoiled rotten by our amazing leaders Julie and Tatiana. That means out of 1700+ coaches, we were the the top 16 coaches by the end of 2015. All through first working on our selves with betting our health and fitness, then by sharing our stories and experiences with others who decided they wanted to do the same.
(Tatiana & Julie)
I arrived Friday afternoon. We stayed in a gorgeous house in Miami Beach with plenty of room and beds for all of us! We spent the afternoon talking and getting to know each other. That night we all joined in the living room and shared our story about what got us to where we are now. And it was quite an amazing experience because each of the stories all had a common theme. We never quite felt like we fit in growing up. Outsiders in a way. Struggling to find our way. We all went through some of the same trough stuff too growing up. But in the end. We found a healthy way to work on ourselves. To learn how to fit in healthy eating and an active fitness routine. Which led us to where we were.

During the night we heard some devastating news about a fellow coach who would have been there with us but she had just had her baby.  Her baby was born with a heart condition and had surgery that day, but sadly the procedure they had to do to help fix his heart wasn't able to work and the baby passed away. It was the most emotional thing, all 18 of us sobbing together. We wanted to just give our friend a hug and hold on to her tightly. But what we learned that night is how much of a community we are together. That this "coaching thing" is not just about us, or those we help, but we are here together. We have a community of support and love and friendships to lean on and what a beautiful blessing that is. I am no longer feeling alone. I have a community of people who have my back and it is an amazing feeling.


Saturday we gathered together for some training to better ourselves and in turn to help better the people that we work with. It was amazing hearing from our leaders and getting their help and advice. After training we all got ready to go to the BEACH. So you all know me, I BURN SO EASILY! I was terrified to go to the beach and honestly I thought that I would go for a bit then go back to the house. But I didn't need to. We got chairs, beds and umbrellas and I got the full shade package basically. I had quite the little shady retreat! I did go out in the water and sun for a bit and still got a little burn, but not as bad as I had in the past. Just a little color!



After the beach we all went back to the house to get ready for our PHOTO SHOOT! Wow, how awesome is that. Then went back down to the beach area and had an amazing time getting amazing pictures taken.

After the photo shoot we went back and decided to go out and get some dinner. I went to my first all vegan restaurant and enjoyed it. Apparently it is on the 25 MUST eat at vegan restaurants before you die list. I definitely got all my veggies in for the day, plus about 2 extra cups. I ate a lot of veggies! We didn't get home from dinner until 1am (it was a full dining experience) Some of the gals went out to go to local clubs and some of us went home. I was exhausted. Well past my bedtime.





Yesterday morning I had to pack and say my goodbyes because it was time to go before I knew it. What an amazing inspiring and motivating weekend. Not only do I believe in more in what I am doing, because I see how helping others has helped so many, but I love the ladies I met and am so excited to see them again! I still can't believe that I got to go on this amazing trip. When I first started coaching I thought only special and lucky people got to go on these trips. But all it takes is for you to believe in yourself. If you believe it can happen, it will. But you just have to work for it and do it!

I'd love for you to have this kind of love and support. Come join my team and become a part of our family. We are ready to welcome you with open arms, EMAIL ME today or COMMENT BELOW!!!
(To make Beachbody happy) Beachbody does not guarantee any level of success or income from the Team Beachbody Coach Opportunity. Each Coach’s income depends on his or her own efforts, diligence, and skill.

Want more daily motivation and inspiration? Click here get free advice, support and encouragement + a free copy of my Clean Eating guide to help you get started on your health and fitness journey! 

Saturday, April 9, 2016

Overcoming Fear


Yesterday morning I woke up with so much apprehension about my upcoming trip. Seriously, real fear. I had to talk to Matt for 30 minutes to calm me down. "What if they don't like me" "what if I get super shy" "what if I don't fit in" among other concerns. I felt like I was back in high school going back into my shell to protect myself. But Matt, he always says the right things. I love him for that!

We will all face moments in our lives where we have to trust who we are and just be us because you are amazing. You are remarkable! You make a difference! No matter what your old self says. Ignore it and be better than how you used to be. Shine on my sisters!

Friday, April 8, 2016

Friday's 5 Pregnancy Favorites


1) MAXI DRESSES: Strapless (but straps can included) Babydoll Maternity Maxi Dress. I don't know why but I am definitely becoming quite the girly girl! And dresses are all I really want to wear right now and I think are going to be my staple for this hot, hot, hot summer! I already have 2 maxi dresses! (Testing them out while in Miami this weekend!) 


2) COMFY PJ'S: Embraceable Cool Night Crop Bottoms from Soma. I get so hot when I sleep and I need comfy pj's! These amazing embraceable cool night crops keep me cool, almost feels like I am not wearing anything, because they are so comfy! I love Soma and have many items from them, including my nursing bras which are AMAZING! Check them out!


3) CALMING BATHS: Peace and Calm Young Living Essential Oil. Wednesday nights is my calming night where I light some tea candles around my huge bathtub, add in some peace and calm essential oil to the hot water and listen to my hypnobirthing CD's. I often fall asleep because I get so relaxed but always wake up 1 minute to the end. It is pretty amazing!




4) FUN PREGNANCY PICTURES: Photofy App pregnancy stickers. I am getting asked EVERY SINGLE WEEK on Instagram and Facebook where I got the pregnancy tracking stickers for my photos. PHOTFY app on my phone! Super easy to use, super fun stickers, like stickers for everything! And super cute! Great way to help family and friends know how far along you are and what size the baby actually is!


5) FUN PREGNANCY WORKOUT SHIRTS: For Two Fitness. Who doesn't love cute tops, but tops that are just for pregnancy are so much fun! They are everywhere, but I love For Two Fitness. They are long, they are comfy and they grow with your belly! Here is me at 14 weeks in this pregnancy and 39 weeks with Collin. See how much they expand! LOVE THEM!

What are your favorite finds right now? Comment below! I would love to hear from ya! 

(Pin for later!) 


Want more daily motivation and inspiration? Click here get free advice, support and encouragement + a free copy of my Clean Eating guide to help you get started on your health and fitness journey! 

Thursday, April 7, 2016

8 Tips To A Healthy and FIT Plus Size Pregnancy

Have you been trying to lose weight and then BAM!!!! You find out you are PREGNANT! First of all, CONGRATS! Getting pregnant is an amazing miracle each and every time. First, or sixth pregnancy, it is a miracle and a blessing. 

I was right in the middle of losing weight. I lost 20 pounds in 5 months (gained a couple back with the holidays) all thanks to finally getting my own coy of 21 Day Fix and following the nutrition plan! Then in January, we found out I was pregnant. At 237 pounds. I was so scared, because I worked so hard to lose the weight in the first place, but I did not want to gain all of it back in one month! And I am terrified of gaining too much weight while pregnant. I had to come up with a plan to keep my weight gain slow and steady so that I can have a healthy pregnancy and labor for both me and the baby. 

If you're overweight, pregnancy can be challenging because you're prone to complications such as gestational diabetes -- especially if you gain too much, have more aches and pains, and that desire to get up and exercise just is on the back burner. But don't fear! Here are simple and easy ideas to help keep you on track and have a healthy and fit plus size pregnancy. I am currently 16 weeks pregnant and have only gained 4 pounds. And you guys, I EAT! I eat all day long. I am just sticking with what I learned in the 21 Day Fix Program, my soulmate program, and following all these tips to keep me as healthy and fit as possible.

1) Eat Regular Meals

Stick to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and two snacks. Erratic eating habits or over eating often contribute to weight gain. Gone are the days of eating for two, sorry, but if you listen to that old adage then you will gain way too much while pregnant. Eating healthy, well balanced meals in the right portions is your best bet to keep a steady weight gain during your 9 months! For more you can check out HOW TO CONTROL WEIGHT GAIN WHILE PREGNANT
2) Keep a Food Diary
If you are having a hard time with what to eat, or how much you have been eating, keep a food diary to keep track. You can consult the diary, along with your doctor or nutritionist, to see what modifications to make (such as reducing portion size) if you're gaining too much or not gaining enough. This works best so you can actually see what you are eating. Every little nibble or bite, write it down, and be honest about it.

3) Avoid Juices & Sweet Beverages
These are packed with calories and often times will even taste too sweet while pregnant. (thank you hormones!) You really only need water. I love fruit infused water to keep things interesting. You can drink a glass of milk daily too. But just cut out pop and other over sugared beverages. Save them for date nights, or special occasions. 

4) Target Your Weight Gain Accordingly

Keep in mind that weight gain doesn't have to start until the second trimester. Then you should gain only two to three pounds a month -- 15 to 20 pounds total. While it is possible to lose weight while pregnant (especially if you have adopted a healthier diet) it is not recommended that you actually "diet" while pregnant. Your body, and baby need the calories to help each other. So no skipping meals or using any diet pills. Always consult your doctor with any supplements you want to add. 

5) Get Some Exercise

Even just walking, for at least 15 minutes a day, can make a difference. Aim for at least 30 minutes to keep your heart rate up and into the aerobic activity. The key is just to MOVE! You don't have to do crazy things to stay fit like hours and hours of cardio. You can still lift weights, do Zumba or even 21 Day Fix, but listen to your body and get the all clear from your doc first! For great pregnancy workout videos check out Diary Of A Fit Mommy over on YouTube 

6) Avoid Simple Sugars
Choose complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain breads and cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Just ditch the fast food, and junk food as much as you can. Go for what you know you should be eating no necessary what you want to be eating. In MODERATION you can enjoy sweets and treats but save them for special occasions or date night! 
7) Drink half Your Body Weight in Water Daily
Staying hydrated will curb your appetite and help you eat less. Plus it will help you stay healthy. It is so easy, especially over summer months, to get dehydrated. Which can bring on contractions and even early labor. The biggest key is to carry a water bottle around with you wherever you go. If you are out and about, have it with you. Around the house, keep a full cup of water ready for you to drink.

8) Don't Forget To Eat Your Veggies! 
Eat veggies! Lots of veggies have calcium and even fiber and minerals in them. And it will help to keep your plumbing working best so that you can avoid constipation. Best to keep half your plate full of veggies to make sure you are getting enough. In general, we are not eating enough veggies, raw veggies, or lightly sautéed veggies. A ton of the veggies the US consumes is in the form of fried or just not at all. Chicken and veggie stir-fry is AMAZING and will fill you up. It is one of my pregnancy go to dinner nights! 

BONUS! 
Remember that your body is going to go through changes. As long as you are eating right and exercising your body will do what it needs to do. Remember to LOVE YOUR BODY, or you can click here to  learn to love your body. Which can be difficult at times when you see the scale going up. You are doing this for you and your baby. It is worth it! Congrats momma! 
(always talk with your doctor first and foremost about your concerns during pregnancy. They will be able to best direct you to your individual health needs!)

----Do you have your Glucose Tolerance Test coming up? Check out my Plus Size Pregnancy Guide To Surviving The Glucose Tolerance Test

Want more daily motivation and inspiration? Click here get free advice, support and encouragement + a free copy of my Clean Eating guide to help you get started on your health and fitness journey! 

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Bump Update: 16 Weeks


Not much has really happened this past week. I have been on Spring break for a week now, so I have just been working and updating some things with my Beachbody business! I do have my energy back and I am getting in my workouts now which has been amazing. So thankful for the second trimester! 



Total Weight Gain: 4 pounds. Lost .5 pounds this week. Back at my 241.

Symptoms: Morning sickness is gone! ENERGY is BACK! YAY! Starting to get lower back pain at the end of the night.
Baby’s Size: Avocado
Maternity Clothes: Yes, bottoms need to wear maternity or stretchy pants. Tops still good to go on regular shirts! 
Stretch Marks: I already have a ton that I got when I gained weight years ago. So nothing new.
Gender: ??? It was too hard to tell. Hoping at my next ultrasound in 2 weeks we will be able to see! 
Sleep: I am only waking up once a night to go to the bathroom. 
Miss Anything: Sleeping comfortably flat on my belly or back! Sleeping through the night.
Cravings: Veggies and egg salad sandwiches
Aversions: nothing yet
Excited About: Feeling the baby move a ton! My upcoming trip to Miami is THIS WEEKEND! I am so excited! 
Workouts: Graduated to the 2nd trimester workouts with Fit for Two and the Active Maternity! Kicking my butt but loving it! I'm getting out of breath so easily. I will be adding in some PiYo to help alleviate some lower back pain that I am starting to feel at the end of the night.

Want more daily motivation and inspiration? Click here get free advice, support and encouragement + a free copy of my Clean Eating guide to help you get started on your health and fitness journey! 

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

21 Day Fix Approved Spinach and Tomato Frittata


Who likes BREAKFAST FOR DINNER??? I do, check out this 21 Day fix approved Spinach Tomato Frittata!

21 Day Fix Approved Spinach and Tomato Frittata

Ingredients:
12 large egg whites (1 1/3 cups)
6 large eggs
Sea salt and ground black pepper (to taste; optional)
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 Tbsp. 
coconut oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups chopped Swiss chard
Nonstick cooking spray (for the pan, again I use coconut oil spray)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half


Directions:
Preheat oven to 350° F.

Combine egg whites, eggs, salt (if desired), pepper (if desired), and nutmeg in a medium bowl; whisk to blend. Set aside.

Heat oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and chard; cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until tender. Turn off heat.

Lightly coat sides of skillet with spray.

Add tomatoes and egg mixture to skillet.

Place skillet in oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until puffy and set.

Cut into 8 even pieces (like a pizza)

*Tip: You can use swiss chard, kale, or other favorite greens instead of the spinach You can also mix the greens for a total of 2 cups.

Serving size: 1 slice
21 Day Fix Containers: 1 1/2 Green, 1 Red, 1 teaspoon if using coconut oil

Want more daily motivation and inspiration? Click here get free advice, support and encouragement + a free copy of my Clean Eating guide to help you get started on your health and fitness journey! 

Monday, April 4, 2016

Don't Change Your Goals, Change Your Method


How many of you have set goals but haven't quite gotten there yet? Setting goals is the easy part. But reaching them, not so much. If you haven't reached your goal, DON'T CHANGE YOUR GOAL, change your method. Look at what you were doing each and every day. Were you doing your daily workout? Were you eating on point every single day or did a little temptation make it into your diet more often than you wanted it to? What about Shakeology? Did you drink that every single day?
There are so many reason why we don't reach our goals, a holiday happens, or we overindulge too much and then it is so hard to want to go back. You can reach your goals, it just takes time to hone in on the right method that works for you!

Ready to join me and finally get to your goals? 

Summer Slim Down To Success 60 Day Program
What's included in the program: 

Daily Motivation
Daily Accountability
1 year unlimited streaming membership with over 500 workouts to choose from
1st month supply of Shakeology
7 color coded containers and a shaker cup to learn portion control and guide
Nutrition guides from over 32 programs
2 Different 30 day guides to help you stay on track
Tools and tips to help you stay focused
Recipe collections
7 Day Meal Plan
Weekly LIVE chats
ME as your motivator and supporter!

It is not too late to join my program. If you are ready to work on you from the inside out the time is now!
FACEBOOK Message me with any questions or ready to order? Click the link and I'll contact you! 


I want you to feel comfortable in your shorts, tanks, and your swim suit this year. For so long I never did! But not this year. I may still be super white legged but I will do everything I can now, to work on toning up my legs and arms, even while pregnant. If you are ready to get back into it and change your method and really make strides to your goal. EMAIL ME! Let's chat, get you started and in the group!

Want more daily motivation and inspiration? Click here get free advice, support and encouragement + a free copy of my Clean Eating guide to help you get started on your health and fitness journey! 

Saturday, April 2, 2016

Amazing Abs in April

Summertime is right around the corner. Now is the time to start working on your summer body. Check out this no-nonsense killer ab challenge, thanks to Glamour.com.

Get your friends involved in the challenge with you. Share this on Facebook and Instagram, and post your before and after selfies. Be sure to tag me @SunKissedBecky #CTDGAbsChallenge. See you in six-pack-ville.



Want more daily motivation and inspiration? Click here get free advice, support and encouragement + a free copy of my Clean Eating guide to help you get started on your health and fitness journey! 

Friday, April 1, 2016

How To Bounce Back After Baby


Are you nervous with how your body is going to look after baby? Start NOW, while pregnant, to help your body bounce back even faster. Not gonna lie. Not everyone will lose weight with breastfeeding. I didn't lose 1 pound from just breastfeed. Not everyone will breastfeed. It takes hard work and dedication to get your body back after baby, but check out this awesome article found at bodybuilding.com on what you can do NOW to help your body bounce back after baby! 
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Diet

Good pregnancy nutrition is vital to delivering a healthy baby. Your child is totally dependent on you for nourishment, so eating well for two is of utmost importance. It is worth the time and effort to plan a well rounded, balanced diet, which will help insure that your baby is getting adequate nutrients during pregnancy, and which will also provide you the needed energy to get you through the day.

Try not to worry about gaining weight. Pregnancy isn't the time to be cutting back on calories. In fact, a gradual, steady weight gain is a good sign, in making sure your baby is gaining the necessary weight. Cutting calories not only robs your baby's delicate growing organs, but it robs your body of needed nutrition, and has the potential to slow your metabolism, the very thing you do not want.

Remember when choosing your diet, quality is more important than quantity. Most pregnant women need about 300 additional calories per day. Daily calories should consist of grains, fruits, veggies, meat, poultry, fish, nuts and dairy products.

Serving size recommendations for the average, healthy pregnant woman include 6-11 servings of breads and grains, two-four servings of fruit, four or more servings of vegetables, four servings of dairy products, and three servings of protein sources (meat, poultry, fish, eggs or nuts).

There is no reason to avoid foods you crave as long as you eat in moderation to avoid excessive weight gain, so limit saturated fats and sweets. Eat 5-6 small meals every two to three hours. Even if you're not hungry, your developing baby needs regular sustenance, and high frequency eating ensures proper blood glucose levels inhibiting the dreaded insulin spike, which causes that afternoon energy crash. 

As a pregnant mom, you don't need anything else to rob yourself of energy, so avoid skipping meals.Prenatal vitamins and mineral supplements are usually recommended by most prenatal care providers, but should not be used in place of eating a balanced diet, however.

Always consult with your health care provider before taking vitamins or supplements. Most importantly, avoid alcohol, smoking and harmful drugs. Try to avoid caffeine as much as possible. If you need a cup, go decaffeinated. Always keep it safe for baby.

Exercise

Exercise is also very important, despite the changes in your growing belly. It may seem like a perfect time to sit back and relax, but in fact, pregnancy can be a great time to stay active.
A good pregnancy workout has several benefits for the mom-to-be. It will help increase circulation, improve your posture, help with sleeplessness and help to control your weight while toning your muscles, making it easier to get back into shape after you deliver.

Exercise also helps you stay flexible, which will benefit you during labor and delivery. Make sure you do not over do it. Hormones occur during pregnancy, which soften ligaments and connective tissues to prepare your body for labor. Stay away from fast, jerky movements at all costs because it could easily lead to injury.

Focus on moving at a slow and controlled rate. Moderate repetition incorporating low weight or light resistance during this time in your life, will insure an injury-free and healthy pregnancy. Remember, this is not the time to train, but to maintain.

First, be sure to talk with your doctor to make sure it is safe to continue your exercise routine, to identify such conditions as preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy). This time spent with the doctor can help identify any specific risk factors to your individual situation.


An excellent form of cardiovascular exercise for moms-to-be, is low-impact aerobics. This involves no jumping or hopping movements, or stepping upon any type of platform, putting you at risk of jarred joints, but includes rhythmic movements that keep one foot on the floor at all times. You can find these kinds of classes at your local gym or YMCA. If you prefer working out in the privacy of your own home, pregnancy DVDs/videos are available at most stores.


An ideal aerobic exercise for pregnant women is swimming. Due to the buoyancy of the water it eliminates any stress on your joints and provides gentle resistance for maintaining muscle tone. The same goes for pool walking or a water aerobics class, typically done waist deep.

Walking is one of the best and safest ways to get exercise and is easily worked into almost any daily routine. Taking a brisk walk through the mall, around a neighborhood park with a friend, or an after dinner, sunset stroll with your husband, can be a fun and convenient way to stay in shape with little or no cost to you.

Stretching is just as important as exercises because it helps you maintain flexibility. Your joints become very loose during pregnancy, due to hormonal changes, so make sure you stretch before and after your workouts, moving slowly and gently without any bouncy, jerky movements.

Don't Forget Your Kegels!

Kegel exercises help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder, uterus and bowels. You have the ability to relax and control these muscles in preparation for labor and birth. They are also encouraged during the postpartum period to promote healing of perineal tissues, increase urinary control and help these muscles return to their healthy state after giving birth.

Kegels should be done every day, by imagining you are trying to stop the flow of urine or trying not to pass gas. Contract and hold for a count of five and then relax. Repeat this contraction ten times each set, for about five sets. At first, it may be difficult to do, so start out with a couple of sets and work your way up.

Sleep

Sleep is very important for the mom-to-be. During the first trimester, your body works to protect and nurture the developing baby. Your body makes more blood for the forming placenta (the organ that nourishes the fetus until birth), making your heart pump faster. As the baby grows, you may find it difficult or uncomfortable to lie down as before. Taking catnaps throughout the day can be a great way to get that extra needed sleep, you may be lacking during the night. Once the baby comes, it will be very difficult to even find time to rest, so get it in while you can 
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(13 miles and almost done with my first half marathon. Still standing. And 29 weeks pregnant. How's that for a fit pregnancy!) 

The main thing is to listen to get approval from your doctor to exercise or continue exercising. Then listen to your body. As you are pregnant things are different. And do what makes you feel comfortable. Do not listen to others that put you down for wanting to exercise or actually exercise while pregnant. It used to be a taboo to exercise while pregnant but no more. It has been found by doctors to be much more beneficial to exercise. Women told me, just minutes before I ran my half marathon at 29 weeks that I was crazy, stupid, and just selfish for training and running in a half marathon so far into my pregnancy. But I did it. I even passed many of them by 5 miles in because I was healthy, fit and I didn't let their negative attitude get me down, and neither should you! Exercise. Be fit. Eat healthy. It is the best thing for you and your baby! 

Want more daily motivation and inspiration? Click here get free advice, support and encouragement + a free copy of my Clean Eating guide to help you get started on your health and fitness journey! 
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