Connect the Dots Ginger

Friday, April 15, 2016

My First Pregnancy Stitch Fix Keepers!

Ok! The other day, I got my FIRST PREGNANCY STITCH FIX! I have finally decided and thank so much to my FACEBOOK friends who all helped me realize that I was making the right choice! I am keeping...

What do you think??? Did I make the right choice???

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!

Amazing Abs in April: Ab Workout Variation

Want to spice up your AMAZING ABS in APRIL ab workout for the month? Check out this 6 move circuit!

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 14, 2016

My First Pregnancy Stitch Fix

(Click the image or here to get your first fix!)

Have you heard of Stitch Fix? It is a service where when you sign up, a stylist chooses 5 items of clothing for you, based on your very descriptive profile that you fill out, sends it to you and you have a choice to get any of the items you were sent. From the reviews, sometimes a fix is either on point or they knock it out of the ball park! And on top of that they offer PREGNANCY CLOTHING!

Ok backing up just a little bit. I have known about Stitch Fix for many years. I have a lot of friends that use the service. But when I first looked into it they only go up to a size 16, and a lot of it was boutique style stuff, so I assumed that the sizes actually ran small. The big word there is ASSUMED! I figured that I was too big to fit any of there stuff, and that I had to lose weight before I even tried their services. While at a party last month. I talked to some ladies and more than half of them were wearing outfits by Stitch Fix. I was like, dude, I have lost weight, and if doesn't work then I am out $20. It's just $20! I can do that. So I filled out my extensive profile, left major notes on my modesty requirements for my religion and that I really only wanted tops and maxi dresses as I already had 2 pairs of modest shorts for the summer. And low and behold. My package arrived YESTERDAY!

Lesson learned! Do not let your fears hold you back because you never know what might be waiting for you on the other side. And you might even be a little pleasantly surprised by the outcome! Have faith and believe in yourself!

So...I need your help! I have 3 days to get back to them and return any items I do not want to keep. Which items do you like best? Can you help me??? COMMENT BELOW WITH YOUR TOP PICKS!

Item A: Stripped top with blue lace on the shoulders. It is a thin material and would still work in the summertime. Plenty of room for the belly to grow!

Item B: Love the teal color on this henley. Super thin and comfy material. However the shoulder area, is crochet and shows my undergarments that I need to cover up.

Item C: Navy blue maxi dress with a beautiful crochet back on it.

Item D: Floral crossover shirt with tons of room for the belly to go. Super thin and comfy material!

Are you ready for your first fix? CLICK HERE to get scheduled today!

Is It Safe To Do Planks While Pregnant

I have been getting asked this question A LOT lately! Is it safe to do Planks or ab work while pregnant? Yes, but you have to listen to your body and be very careful! During pregnancy you are more prone to develop diastasis recti, which is a separation of the abdominal muscles. Diastasis recti results from the growing uterus pushing against the abdominal wall, which is susceptible to separating because of a hormonally-induced softening of the fibrous band that connects the recti muscles.

You are more prone to diastasis recti if you are over 35, have poor abdominal muscle tone, have had multiple pregnancies, delivered a baby with a high birth weight, and engaging in aggressive abdominal exercises, especially crunches, during pregnancy.

Be sure to talk with your doctor first and ask him how to monitor your belly for the signs of diastasis recti. I personally do not do any standard crunches or standard planks during pregnancy for this very reason. I modify them and really listen to my body.

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Bump Update: 17 Weeks

This week has been amazing. I seriously feel like a totally different person now that I have my energy back! And on top of that I had an amazing weekend with my gals down in MIAMI for the 2016 Pure Synergy Diamond Retreat! Such great memories and friendship were made there. You can read more about it HERE!

Also this week, yesterday, I got my first STITCH FIX EVER! And it was with PREGNANCY CLOTHING! YAY! Oh and I fit in all of them! For a long time I put off doing Stitch Fix because I didn't think I would fit in anything, but I did and DO! YAY for hard work to change my lifestyle and make healthy choices so that I can naturally lose weight!

Matt has said he wanted me to show off my belly and wants to get me cute pregnancy clothing. So why not have a stylists pick something for me. I really love all the pieces. She did a great job, but I think for practicality we are only going to keep 1 or two of the pieces. I will have a post up about it before I send anything back! But the stylist totally listened to my requests and only sent me shirts, a cardigan and a maxi skirt (THAT I LOVE!)

Total Weight Gain: 4-5 pounds. 242-243. Yesterday I was at 242 and today I was at 243. I am still trying to regulate after my amazing weekend!

Symptoms: None. Full of energy!

Baby’s Size: Onion/Pomegranate/Turnip

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. But started having some crazy weird dreams!

Miss Anything: Sleeping comfortably flat on my belly or back! Sleeping through the night.

Cravings: MEAT. On my weekend away we ate mostly vegan, as more than half of us were vegan. I had 1 meal with meat in it. So since being home I have been like, "MEAT! GIVE ME MEAT!"

Aversions: nothing yet

Excited About: Feeling the baby move a ton! Getting to hear the baby's heartbeat tomorrow at my monthly check up. And getting my first Stitch Fix pregnancy clothing!

Workouts: Getting in my workouts 5 days a week, which is awesome! My right shoulder has been hurting me, no idea why but getting lots of massages from Matt for that. I have been doing 21 Day Fix yoga, Cize, Diary Of A Fit Mommy's Fit For Two 2nd Trimester and the Beachbody On Demand Active Maternity 2nd Trimester workouts.

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.

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!)

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!

WELCOME! If you are new CLICK HERE!

Hi! I'm Becky, the FIT GINGER! Are you having a hard time losing weight after having kids? Or do you struggle trying to find time to exercise daily and be the best version of you? I used to be a Yo-Yo dieter who struggled to lose weight and keep it off. Who put her kids first and didn't make the time to work on myself. I was uncomfortable in my own skin because of my shape and size. But not any more! Check out my site for info, tips, motivation and to learn about the tools that I use plus more to help you get the results you really want. Be sure to subscribe above for more tips right in your inbox!