This post is sponsored by Moto X
I’m going to be completely honest with you – I am struggling a bit with my weight. Without flashing numbers about, I’ve been yo-yoing the same 5 pounds since Mazen’s birth. Well, technically since about 9 months after his birth : )
Before you start to think I am setting unrealistic goals or coveting a weight that isn’t within reach, let me clarify that I’ve been at that weight many times. And when I’m there I feel my absolute best – comfortable in clothes and bathing suits alike.
I go through periods of time when weight loss//healthy eating//putting my health first comes totally naturally and easily. And then I have other phases where it seems like I have a party to attend every other day and I just can’t say no to the delicious food, wine and desserts. While I don’t go totally overboard, I consume more than my body needs. I’m at a point in my life where I don’t want to say no to those things and in the moment convince myself that as a 32-year-old-mom I look pretty good and moderation is the name of the game. I’m very fit and healthy. Who cares!? And in those moments, amidst the Zinfandel and the buttercream, I gain 5 pounds, little by little.
The good news is that I know exactly where my weight gain comes from: social life. My daily meals are healthy and clean. I rarely snack or have dessert at home these days. My workouts are more challenging and diverse than ever, especially in the weight lifting and soccer arenas. It all comes down to parties.
I need to learn to “choose choice” and make better decisions in the moment.
You guys already know all the tips for social events – the holiday season is the peak of putting these to practice.
-Don’t go to a party starving
-Pick and choose the foods you want to try most
-Go easy on the alcohol, which can lead to overeating and lots of empty calories.
You guys know this. I know this! I’ve written posts about the topic. It’s just so hard to put it in practice!
One of my very favorite quotes is actually Caitlin’s blog tagline:
When you think about health as a bunch of choices you make all day, everyday, it seems more attainable. Maybe you don’t make the “best” choice every single time, but so long as the majority of your choices are good ones, you’re keeping up the momentum of your healthy tipping point. I just need to make a shift in my social life choices and remember that they add up – both ways.
My goal over the next few months is to continue going to social events, restaurants and parties (because that’s life!), but to keep in the front of my mind that every choice I make adds up. Let’s make it something amazing!
The “Choose Choice” concept is embraced by the new Moto X phone, which sponsored this post. The Moto X is completely customizable – from the back color, the frame style, trim choice, memory and engravings, you can choose everything. I designed my phone as navy blue – classic – with gold trim.
Every time my phone wakes up, I am reminded of my goals with “Most or Moment?” This is a phone that works for you. (And that’s why I love Android phones!) The Moto Voice feature that serves as a virtual secretary to the widgets that have me hooked on Android, this phone is really impressive. I love its feel too – the curved back and the screen vibrate upon touch is great.
Lastly, can you guess what I put as my engraving? Most appropriate : )
For more info, visit motomaker.com. Thanks to Moto X for sponsoring this post! #choosechoice #MotoX
Kaila @healthyhelperblog! says
I love the personal touches you added to your phone! Eat Real Food is perfect for you! LOL Also, did you use Rhonna Design App to make those quote images?! Love that app!
KathEats says
I did 🙂 thanks!
Philippa says
All too easy to succumb, particularly this time of year! I know how you feel Kath, I’ve been feeling the same. It’s such a fine balance to strike, particularly when you lost a lot of weight and have been keeping it off for many years as we have, between living a little but not letting yourself off the hook all the time either.
It is very easy to stay on track when you’re super motivated – it’s staying on track when you aren’t motivated where you start seeing results 🙂
All the best to you and your family for the holiday season xx
sam @ grapefruit & granola says
How do you like this phone compared to the galaxy? I switched from the iPhone to the s5 in April and so far I like it. It makes me wonder about other Android phones and how they compare.
KathEats says
They are very similar and since they’re both android they run very similarly. So far the MotoX voice and “feel”of the MotoX are my favorite parts.
Liz @ I Heart Vegetables says
I love your honesty here! And I’ve totally been in that same place. Regular meals and all that are fine… but it’s the parties! And I’m not willing to give up my social life, so it’s a matter of finding balance!
Maggie says
Kath, with all respect intended , as a long time reader these sponsored posts seem out of sync. Not only are they increasing in number but I’m unsure how they fit into kerf. I feel the number of sponsored posts are leaving a bad taste in my mouth. I’m unsure if you will even allow this comment as I also have recognized how you only allow positive comments/feedback to post. This also questions the authenticity/bilaws of a blog. I sincerely hope you do read this and digest it , as well as post it because it is a respectful comment.
Mixki says
I have to agree with this. I’ve loved some of your past sponsored posts, this one feels “off” somehow. KERF is a business, I get that, but this doesn’t “feel” like its a KERF post. It feels like a commercial break on KERF. I know you’ve had a lot of comments weighing in on this issue (this is my first comment on this subject) and wanted to add my opinion also. IN the past, you’ve mentioned sponsored posts being a part of the blog that you get paid for but would post either way. Would you have written this post about customizing your phone without the sponsorship? It doesn’t feel that way. I applaud your honesty about your fluctuating weight, that’s hard. Except the sponsored phone almost takes away from that. This would have been a sincere, eye-opening KERF post and now it doesn’t. Sorry if this upsets you, Kath.
KathEats says
No but I would have written abut taking control of making healthy choices. I try to fit sponsored post themes within the context of “KERF” topics like this one.
Elise says
I must agree. It specifically says in your bylaws about sponsored posts that you will only make sponsored deals with products and companies that relate to real food. This post, as well as a number of the posts you’ve done this year, do not in any way relate to real food. If you’re going to continue to take sponsorships that don’t relate to your blog, then perhaps it’s time to update the name and the bylaws.
KathEats says
I say “Products should always fit within my “eat real food’” (or pretty darn close to it) theme.” That means I won’t endorse products that I don’t consider to be real food. This post definitely speaks to my blog’s theme of living the healthy lifestyle.
Heather says
I’m going to add a comment here because this has been weighing in my mind lately. I agree with the above readers on these sponsored posts. I feel like kerf is becoming a “how can I make easy money” blog because many of the sponsored posts are in left field. And honestly kath, I used to read your blog by 830am everyday, now I check in once a week because of the excessive number of sponsored posts. It just doesn’t feel genuine and often I don’t understand why you are sponsoring the item that you are posting about. Can you consider doing sponsored posts as Saturday posts or bonus posts? Maybe that would be a happy medium? Can you comment back in your thoughts about that idea?
Ella says
I view sponsored posts on my favorite blogs much like I view the obvious product placements in some of my favorite TV shows. New Girl, for example, has the most annoying ones – really, you needed to work that forced dialogue about the new Ford whatever into that scene? However, I will still continue watching that show, and enjoying it 98% as much as I would have without the product placement. I understand that, hey, it’s business. Do I love it? No. But in limited quantities, it doesn’t affect my loyalty or interest in the show/blog. And, in my opinion, KERF has fewer sponsored posts as a percentage of posts overall than many other popular lifestyle/food blogs.
Linda @ The Fitty says
Interesting app, and I have to agree with you–a social life without food is not a social life, unfortunately in this society. I gain a lot of my weight from those times too.
Winding Spiral Case says
I too am carrying a few extra pounds that I know are directly related to baking and work treats…but I like your take on balance and am similarly going to say who cares! Also, the blue colour and customization of your phone are perfect.
Faith says
It’s interesting to me that you are “struggling with your weight” because I’ve honestly thought several times that you look the best I’ve ever seen you! Very healthy and trim and strong! I’m small and petite, though, so I do know how a few pounds can feel like just enough to make you uncomfortable in clothing. 🙂
KathEats says
🙂
Cathy says
I was thinking the same thing Kath as I was reading this post. 🙂 You look marvelous. Lol
jen says
So funny, Ive been thinking the same thing about all of kaths pics lately, “man, she looks great!” And I don’t know if it’s a hormone thing, or if it’s just so much harder to care “enough” about those last 5 lbs once your whole life has changed to embrace children, but I totally did the same thing on the same 5 lbs after my first. Then got pregnant when she was 15 months. Now my second is 18 months and I’m still “struggling” with those same 5 lbs from my first baby. It would be nice to lose them because I’m only 5 feet and they’re enough to keep me from being comfy in pre pregnancy clothes, but at the same time my life is so busy right now, and I’m so tired that it’s easy to indulge in extra coffee drinks and sweets and it’s hard to spend much time or energy on me. So yeah, I guess I’d like them gone, but preferably without any effort on my part 😉
Karen B. says
Agree! I’ve been noticing that you look very trim, fit and tiny. Where that extra 5 lbs are I’ll never guess. I do understand the feeling of being uncomfortable with a little extra weight and clothing just doesn’t fit right. Honestly, though, you look great!
Maggie says
I’ve been reading your blog regularly for the past 2 years or so and I was also thinking that you’ve never looked better! You always look healthy and even muscular. Keep up the good work.
Tracy R. says
I love all of the inspiration. I am not as young as you, but feel so much the same. I cook and eat for healthy for my regular meals, but socializing – wine – good meals at quality restaurants – can still do me in. I am going to continue to follow your blog for inspiration on getting my choices moving in the right direction!
(I have no problem with sponsored posts! You do not run this blog as a charity and I am sure you spend many hours writing and organizing information that is helpful to your blog followers. I would never get my husband to change from Apple products anyways!)
🙂
KathEats says
Thank you Tracy!
Brenda says
I echo Tracy! I’m also struggling with 5 lbs that I used to find no problem to keep off. This fall in particular has been a struggle after keeping 30+ lbs off for 3 years with no issues. And at 5’1″ 5lbs makes a big difference! I appreciate the motivation, even in the form of phone screen shots, and it’s nice to know I’m not alone.
And I have zero issues with this as a sponsored post. It was on topic and well done. 🙂
Mom says
Love the quotes!
Two party management techniques I’ve developed in recent years are not to eat a ton of cheese (I love it) and don’t do fast, last-minute cramming right before you leave (one more cookie/brownie). I’m actually the worst at my own parties. After the guests leave, I often go a bit nuts, usually in a festive but tired mood from a happy event.
Melissa @battleofmarathonblog says
Realizing that every little choice in a day adds up to overall health has really changed my whole perspective on living a healthy, balanced life. I used to get stuck in the mindset of “losing” a whole day because I made one “bad” food choice. Now I realize that even if I have a giant piece of cake, or a really huge lunch, that’s not a license to eat crap all day. It means I go for my normal walk, run, or bike, and eat a normal dinner. I’m with you that these “indulgent” moments have been happening really often this season and that they add up, but it’s only for a few weeks. Enjoy while it’s here is my motto right now (along with “put down the fourth cookie…”).
Kelli H (Made in Sonoma) says
I think it’s difficult for everyone this time of year. In October I did the Whole30 which was great and I’ve continued to eat almost Whole30 all week long except allowing myself an indulgent meal and some wine/drinks on the weekends. The hardest part for me is the holiday parties. I do make sure to not go hungry but it’s definitely hard. I’ve had an easier time lately saying no to desserts but dang! Cheese and wine is hard to resist! Good luck with your struggle (though you do look great!). I’m sure when the holidays are over you’ll have an easier time with it. Merry Christmas!
Jessica says
LOVE the Whole 30!!! Truly life-changing. I really like the idea of indulging just on the weekends.
eliza says
I feel ya, girl. Tis the season. Funny, though, because just this week you posted a pic of yourself post-workout and I thought “Whoa is she looking fit these days!” So I’m confident you’ll get to where you want to be in January after the constant parties wind down.
randy says
I think you should be a bit easier on yourself; you are doing great and you look great. What you do is in moderation and that is allowed.
Wishing you and all of your family a very Merry Christmas and the best of the New Year 2015.
Annie says
Appreciate the honesty here! For me, it’s not the parties that are hard (though those are, too!) but the visiting family. I’m at my in-laws for the week, and though I love spending time with them, they’re all about those cocktails, with very few vegetables in sight.
joelle (on a pink typewriter) says
I love that first quote, and gosh I can relate to what you’re saying… Thank you for your honesty.
Erin says
For me, life is too short to worry about 5 pounds. It’s the holidays! Having some extra drinks and sweets seems like a perfectly normal thing to do. I had 4 cookies this morning and will probably have something sweet tonight. No regrets!
Chrissy says
For me the most important thing to remember is that you can’t “out exercise” an unhealthy diet. A healthy diet is what leads to weight loss, the exercise is just a bonus. Also, I wonder if it would help you to track your snacks in your “lately” meal posts? I notice you mention a lot of ice cream and other treats in your weekend recaps, but they never seem to appear in your food logs. I bet there are a lot more calories sneaking in than you know!
Christine says
Have you considered the extra pounds might be from your weight lifting? Unless your feel your clothes aren’t fitting your comfortably, don’t let a number dictate your pleasures!
KathEats says
That’s a good point, and I do think there is some effect from my weight lifting, but my clothes are also a little snug too : )
Amanda says
I think this post was great. These kinds of things are hard to be honest about.
Lindsay says
I loved this post Kath! Thank you for your honesty! I’m feeling very much the same right now. 36 weeks pregnant and pretty confident, but sneaky holiday parties and treats are weighing me down, and I’m nervous about getting it all off AFTER baby! One day at a time, one choice at a time;)
Leslie says
First of all, I admire your overall commitment to your health and fitness! I totally understand where you’re coming from in terms of having a weight/size comfort zone. I also love indulging at social events! Here’s the thing for me: when I’m a few pounds away from my comfort zone and I’m not pleased with the number on the scale, or how my clothes fit, that is never the core issue. It is always, always a symptom of something else that is bothering me, but it is VERY well concealed by weight and size concerns. When do I usually enjoy food a little more? At social events. When do I want to feel and look my best? Social events! This means that my anxiety about looking my absolute best around lots of people or family(!) makes me MORE critical of myself than I would be normally. My weight does fluctuate, because my food intake and activity level fluctuates with the weekly, monthly and yearly changes in my life. What never seems to change is that I judge myself more harshly when the stakes feel higher – meeting my husband’s new colleagues, seeing family after a year apart, etc. It seems like losing a few pounds and feeling a little more confident in my clothes would make a world of difference, but honestly, even when I have felt like I’ve checked that box, there is always something that I feel I could improve upon. Long post, but here’s the thing – I admire your goals, but be kind to yourself, and maybe when the holidays are done and you can refocus, ask yourself if anything else could be influencing your feelings about your appearance.
KL says
I think you look great, first off Kath. I have found little meals work for me, when ever I am hungry, I listen to my body and eat.I dont so 3 meals day, my family Dr told me years ago, eat when your body tells you too. Often you post photos of huge plates of food, and I always wonder how you can eat that much at one sitting. I certainly do not mean to upset you but I wonder if making smaller plates might help. I love food too and gorge once in awhile but for the most part, I do not like that feeling like at thkgvg where you eat so much you feel sick and it’s not fun. I was at a party on Sunday and it was non stop food from 2-6pm. I was so sick…could not wait to get home on the couch, I vow not to do that anymore LOL I am not saying you do that either…. I have also found the more I eat , little meals , the more I lose, I just lost 7 pounds and I had no desire too. I sure hope I did not piss you off, that is NOT my intention Kathryn
KathEats says
I always think it’s funny when someone says my meals are “too big” or “too small” because I get comments on both all the time! I have found that bigger meals keep me full and from thinking about food all day long. I’ve tried both mini meals and bigger ones and when I do smaller meals I’m hungry all the time! I do think my struggles come from parties where I definitely do eat too much. Thanks for your suggestions!
Rainey says
KL I find this comment so funny! Most people comment on how little Kath eats. Guess its all in the eye of the beholder. Thanks Kath for being so honest about your struggles. I think you look great! Merry Christmas to you and your family.