My perceptions are WAY OFF....

As the Holidays near me, although I don't "celebrate", I attended a performance by Ailey, along with my adoring partner for that evening Rob (thanks Rob!) I always go see Ailey, its a ritual, tradition, a compulsion I must follow.  My family comes and we have a blast.  I make fun of my old school friend Glenn, who in fact in quite amazing in presence, he looks for me in the front and I snap illegal photos of these memories I make.  The last piece for me is ALWAYS Revelations and if it isn't as it was this time unfinished Ailey. We watched instead a piece I had never had the pleasure of peeking in on Nights in Lisbon.  Colorful, gorgeous, perfection in motion...I watched in awe and peeked over at my great nephew Julian to his jaw on the ground as the "girls with the colorfuls dresses that were puffy" came out.  One dancer stood out to me she was powerful, and the largest dancer I had ever seen in an Ailey production.  I was drawn to her and began to doubt her ability, judge her size, and compare her to the other dancers.  Let me talk about this...I need to. At some point a dancer has to be told "You are too big" " I am sorry you will never be a ballerina, or hmmm, maybe you should Teach?"  Hmmm, now I felt totally as if I didn't have faith in Ailey or his dream because she was there because she made it and was awesome and looked amazing.  I began to then analyze her hair and short it was.  A dark, heav(ier) Black woman with closely shaved hair.  An exception or the expectation?  A constant struggle for me, for me, for ME.

How Much Do You Weigh?

Please join us on the dreaded facebook...sign on to the revolution.

How Much Do You Weigh?

You don't have to post your weight, your thoughts, photos, and reactions are what we need.

Barbara Reiner

Met an amazing woman yesterday her name is Barbara Reiner.  We had an insightful conversation on hiring practices around weight and size.  Her speciality...well is a lot web design, management among a few.  I explained my approach to Sizism and that it is the last acceptable prejudice.  She asked me was I judged based on my size.  I of course answered in the affirmative.  I have realized something amazing.  When I was little people would say (which I still don't believe) "You have a beautiful face..." "You have beautiful skin..." and so I have realized at now a ripe old age of 30 something that the dot. dot. dot. was....if only you would:
1.  Lose weight
2. Were thinner
3.  Lost about 100 pounds
4. Take care of yourself

It took me quite a while but now I see, they were complimenting me.  Go figure.

A BOLD question!

Ladies and Gentleman....a bold question have you ever not had a relationship because you were overweight...meaning you thought or knew the relationship didn't happen because of your size?

Is it okay to say something about someone's weight?

Simply...is it okay to say something about someone's weight...such as:

1.  Wow!  You look great, you have lost some weight huh?

2.  Hmmm, what have you been doing you look thinner.

3.  from an older aunt...Are you putting on weight?

4.  I almost didn't notice you, you've....

Love AMOR's Femme Fatale

Check out AMOR on Sugar's Femme Fatale....absolutely love it...its all about networking.


Incidentally...

Where did you Go and what did you DO this summer?

I am interested readers in what activities you engaged in this summer that might benefit our readers...did you take a cruise and do an activity that has you jazzed and had a weight limitless...fill me in WHAT DI D YOU DO?

Are Latinos Different?

...well of course everyone is different in some way my curiosity needed information, solid experiences and facts not just "what I think" and so I asked a woman who has a new baby and husband who she adores about weight and Latinos.  The beautiful distinction that she made was that there are sub-sets of Latinos...Guatemalans, Venezuelans, El Salvadorian, Spanish (I say from Spain) Peruvian oh we could go on, but she is from Mexico and told me that while she was dating her husband (also from Mexico) her mother would sternly remind her and a friend (they were dating at the same time) to dress up when they were with their boyfriends (now both husbands) AND GET THIS that the other day after a year plus of marriage her mother told her she couldn't leave the house without makeup and getting a little dressed up hmmm I thought and dug deeper.  A Revelation Willis tried to convince me that Gourda (meaning fat) is not derogatory to woman in particular and it was me with the problem (me being militant about weight and acceptance) anyway what we discovered is that although this woman lovingly calls her husband Gourdo it means sweety in Spanish NOT FATTY and in Venezuela (Willis' first introduction to it) it was not meant as a compliment but meant to say plainly "She is fat. or He is Fat or worse You are fat.  Now with that all being said lovingly in this woman's family after she had her gorgeous baby girl her aunts gave her a few months and asked her "How is your weight coming?" Then later when she was the same size, they gave her a lovely gift...a girdle. My, My...another woman by the same name said her father didn't care if other kids were fat but she was not to be fat or for her face to break out her mother being petite too.  Thus the explanation for the type of clothing made/worn...belts that make you look curvier than you are but also bras that make your breast stick out and oh my high heeled shoes which finish the package...along with makeup and the right accessories well you understand.  Not only this but many of the woman I have spoken to have been groomed to give their not only their boyfriends and husbands a lot of attention but to be that way with men in general.  Deep down I think that is wrong for me and will not happen as long as I don't hit my head but we will see.  I tend to be very militant about weight and how people feel, I wish they or I could make the conversation welcoming so what they really want to say comes out....How might I do this?

Whoa...a Reaction.

Online on facebook (which by the way Denali was in HQ the other day and saw Zuckerberg) anyway...we are discussing the F word.  It is so telling because one of my brightest friends thought another friend was asking what I thought of the F word the curse word, well her knowing me since we were babies was a bit shocked because I don't use that word...anyway...the F word being Fat.  For about five comments back and forth noone used the F word...fat that is.  I told a story of a man who met Willis and I and was so excited to meet us (new place and all) He proudly said, "I am so and so, and I will be marrying the petite sister in less than a week...."  I stopped listening.  For weeks after and even now I wonder how he would have described me to the new people....
Option 1:  I am marrying the girl, you know, the new Black sister, she wears hippy type clothing..
Option 2:  I am getting married, to, uh the heavy set sister
Option 3:  I get married next week, to the, well do you know her she is plus sized...
Option 4:  I am getting married to the fat sister
Option 5:  I am marrying Amy
Option 6:  ....forget it I don't marry fat people.

my goodness this girl has a name, and I know her now and I could have put together who she was...he said petite...help me out what should I think?

Masters Class at Mac Gym

Please come out and support Cat, Jessica, Willis and others in the best Masters' Class since well, whenever it takes place on August 20th and I will dance with you if I am here.  Willis and I are a little rattled to the bone so getting motivated may have to start with a new hair style.  Who knows.

Confidence

I should be sleep or studying I can not seem to do either.  Owning the last entry on afterthoughts...I have been thinking.  Support is important no matter what form and maybe I am not as great as I imagine and the minute I think I can not learn which I have so much more to learn and share with you...means I should quit it all...so with that, I still stand by my decision to choose to teach rather than fall into something.  I can not wait for another opportunity to express my interest in getting and staying fit.  I feel so much better knowing if a person is an afterthought....a second thought it is really okay as long as in the persons' mind they are themselves...unique, amazing, and courageous.  I think of this as I am going through some training this week and the loving encouragement of every Zumba instructor who supported me in feeling like I could do it...love to Kathryn, Catherine, Tanya, Claudia, and my absolute fave instructor Ali Ramirez and her very wonderful husband who will only speak to me in Spanish Charlie.

  Gracias por todo.

WOW.....My thoughts on afterthoughts

...when you hear the word afterthought what comes to your mind?  Possibly, something you just recalled?  Something of less importance than your original thought?  Does this term leave a negative ring in your head or a positive one?

....well.  I was an afterthought when planning something I really want to be part of.  I categorically would not teach at certain gyms because they choose less experienced teachers than me...why?  Because they, in my opinion need their classes covered and ALWAYS ask Willis before me.  This process is upsetting.  I am a good instructor, a great one, I think and I am open to improvement.  However, simply because you want your instructors to look a certain way is EXACTLY the reason why they don't hire me...or maybe there is a reason...can you readers who have taken my class offer me feedback?  Getting back to an afterthought; me as an afterthought.  Someone offered Willis an opportunity in Zumba and said I can participate if I want to maybe they meant because I don't participate on stage with other instructors....maybe there are other reasons...but the word was Willis' afterthought...if I was not an afterthought he wouldn't have used that word.  I know this is a powerful entry but it is my intuition telling me this and interesting enough when Willis told me he had this opportunity I felt not included...then my intuition was confirmed when he said "....they said you could be involved if you wanted to..." His explanation is if I wanted to meaning my choice. Nope.  If you wanted someone included, even on the playground at 4 years of age you would pick them for your team...especially if you knew you wanted to see what they could add.  I suppose we will see. I would like to be part of this even even if its passing out water....and that may be all I can do.

Afraid to sweat?

A friend and educational mentor of mine brought up a wonderful point...is it reverse judgement to "hate" thin people who can exercise and look good sweating?  I thought...is is prejudice, is it wrong?  Well, I suppose to hate anyone is wrong, envy is too. ...and really who is looking.  I think she looks great and is doing all in her power at this moment to be healthy. I wonder though, like the discovery of one diversity expert "racism is only something that can be imposed upon a group that is disempowered" I would say the same is true for thinner people whether they be children, men, or women...or teenagers.  If you are thin the wind is at your back in many situations.  It isn't okay to "hate" them but really do they care?  A woman once said "soon you will be scanning the room to see how you rate among the woman in the room...are you the youngest, thinnest, what is everyone wearing?"  I am not sure that doesn't happen to all women especially those that are overweight, curvy, plus sized etc (still have not found the right word)...

When a woman is thin.  When a woman is the thinnest...she may act as if you are not competition if you are overweight.  Taking me back to my theory about homosexual men and heavy women (for another day)...oh well if you insist briefly; many gay men have overweight women as friends unless the gay male is high profile, wealthy in a sense untouchable then he possesses a confidence oh I don't know my theory was that a gay male or male that is coming out befriends an overweight woman because other men and women will know that he "couldn't be serious about actually liking her right?"  Everyone will know he is available.  This was my theory in my younger days and I still wonder.  I wonder if you have noticed these things...I am just self conscious always wondering always pondering thinking weight is everything.

Alvin Ailey...sigh

Number one this isn't a rant on Ailey...but I have to say...I am wondering why the five we must vote on were chosen maybe I wasn't inspirational enough, but the five Ailey has up as inspirations sort of left me wanting.  I really wanted to win that contest, tell my story and Ailey's place in it.  Not one person is overweight, I know you might say the lady, her name escapes me is I love this "a little chunky" but DAG, I drive 2 hours to take a class.  I might examine the possibility that I did not write enough, but you did have to send a photo....and why I wonder.  Ah the world of dance.  I certainly am not going for auditions for the American Ballet company but DAG.  Ailey?  Hmmmmmmm Check out the Fab Five they call them and WHAT SAY YOU?

Plus Size Black Female Archetypes

So sorry there was no post....for so long I have been thinking about what I should write...that word should. This topic is so close to my heart...being that I look like I look and have been actually called a Mammy by someone who thought they were complimenting me..can you imagine...then proceeded to share that I look like I should have 11 children, this was years ago and I will never forget it.  I just returned from a 4th of July picnic, well cook-out.  A typical "Black Cookout" with all of the characters to match...this is far from what I am used to growing up we ate all kinds of food and no one drank beers out of an outside fridge, no one played Lou Rawls in the background it was all so dignified hmmmm, but does that mean that if you are a plus sized dark skinned woman you are motherly, loud, bossy, lazy, on welfare, living ghetto fabulous?  No....what is the take on the characters Tyler Perry creates?  I had a talk with a friend a Black guy who works in a local city...he recounted a very touchy subject...this very one.  I am not sure but I know not all plus sized Black women are gospel singers and that they can be educated and speak like anyone....I know no one should be judged based on their size or skin color...but being plus sized and dark is a dangerous combination....what say you?

Wedding Gear

When you want to get married where do you go to get wedding gear?  Please don't send me to David's Bridal...they will put a bow on the back of a size 26 dress, which by the way if I was confident and inclusive would say..."That is just fine."  However, when you look through JCrew's new Bridal Boutique...it doesn't seem equitable that plus size women must look at alternatives for bridal gear.  What if you want a crinoline?  Or a full hoop skirt.  My challenge to you...send me websites I can use!

The Fitness Industry

I asked this question before...I really wonder...If the fitness industry is working on getting people healthy...why don't more instructor look like me?  Like they are on a journey to health?  What say you?

Fatbooth

Needing your opinion....check out the application fatbooth.com....its an ipod app.  I am offended but I could be wrong....

We Rocked IT!

Our first class at the Ridge Gym was amazing.  Of course Willis was well, late and I was steaming but I worked out and I am not angry anymore.  Micah showed up and took photos thank you soooooo much.  Genelle and Sienna for support.  And Alan, well Alan went all the way he was sweating so I knew I was working hard.  Many people were nervous, as we were but I had fun and want to continue teaching Zumba in whatever capacity I can.  I have not forgotten about six flags.....and incidentally if you are 22/24 with size DDD breasts or over you might want to think about NOT ordering the XXL tank I mean from Zumba....I am trying their clothes and the tanks are not forgiving.  We will have to do something about it doesn't fit me at all. rrrrgggghhhh.  Which means I will need to make my own Zumbawear no problemto till they see the need.   hee hee.

Followers...Readers?

As a teacher I had forgotten what is what like to be in a lecture hall...I forgot about the small seats and pull up trays to use as desks.  What if you need to take notes and you don't fit into the seats?  Lecture halls should have adjustable trays that go higher if you need them to.  How much more would that cost?  Not much.

What? What?

Our first class is May 21st at ta gym in Stone Ridge.  It is an experiment to see if we can get numbers up at the gym....a big task ahead of us.  We can do it though...please post a comment to let me know you are coming!  Family you are soooooooooooooo welcome.  Allyse you promised.  See you there.

Information:

The Ridge Gym
www.theridgegym.com

3555 Main Street


Stone Ridge, NY 12484

(845) 687-0000

ZUMBA ANYONE?

Okay, I think my friends and family think I am obsessed and that I spend more time on Zumba than anything else...not true, I spend more time....well anyway...my first Zumba class may just happen!  June 4th would be the start date so take off work, purchase your airline tickets, get in the car and put it on your calendar...its a Friday night I totally expect you ALL to be there.  I will know for sure on Tuesday...so hope for me.  This is it.

Lane Bryant v. TV?

Below is the hot topic link that Lane Bryant's commercial will not air during American Idol....of course this article is quite bias and since when do they NOT show Victoria's Secret commercials.....hmmm in the immortal words of Lassona Williams "I don't know something about this is sketchy"   I don't feel the need to rant and rave...read, research and tell me what you think.

http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7018489446


http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/dpp/news/lane-bryant-lingerie-ad-ashley-graham-america-idol-apr-28-2010

Pregnant?

...no I am not.  But, if you are and you are plus-sized FINALLY Old Navy has added Plus-Sized Maternity clothing...which are quite cute.  I still don't like the fact that you have to purchase all clothing online and return some online and some in store.  But check out the line at oldnavy.com if you are "in the family way."  That gives us hope doesn't it?  Now you "exceptionally sized" (in Great Adventures' words) can tip us off as to what you did before there were plus sized maternity clothing.  Hee Hee

A Brilliant Idea...Attention Great Adventure and all those who adore Jersey.

....from the time we were very little, those of born close to Jackson, New Jersey we visited Great Adventure.  We stayed all night, and for me the best times was riding the roller coaster Rolling Thunder with my very slim sisters...at that time Micah and Jennifer dragged me along and because I was "big" for my age; I was scared to death at the thought of strapping into one of those carts...but oh was it fun.  We stayed until the park closed and then Micah drove us home.  I remember seeing the wooden signs that said you had to be "this" tall to ride this ride.  I never had an issue with height so I never had to go to the kiddie rides until Ashley was born.  But, then something happened, years ago, probably more then 10 years ago.  I recall my last visit to Great Adventure and me being so excited to ride an old favorite "The Runaway Train" (thanks to Micah I really believed there were crocs in that murky water).  Anyway, I got on the ride and ready to go the machine kept making an unhooking noise, like it couldn't clamp down and move, anyway that happens sometimes and the "ride experts" run like heck to find the problem.  This time the problem was the size of my thighs.  He quickly picked me out of sixty people and told me I would have to lay my legs to the side.  He didn't make a big deal of it, after all the ride must go on after an hour wait time.  I did so, but even in my little mind I knew it was because of me the ride didn't operate right.  I was too fat to ride the way I used to.  I didn't say it then, but I vowed never to put myself in that position again.  So as my brother John excitedly talked about the batman ride and all these new additions, my tradition of going with my sisters and my friends was over.

I asked a girl once in Lane Bryant would she ever use a service like Travelwidth to plan her vacation.  She immediately said, "No" kindly and I went on to myself about why she wouldn't use it and was it a stupid idea.  As I was deciding on the clearance rack, she came over to me with red rimmed eyes and said...
"...maybe I would, you see I went to Great Adventure and I waited 2 hours to ride the Batman ride, I was...excited. Anyway, I got on the ride and the man told me I was too big to ride...so..yes...maybe I would use it, I don't know."  I didn't cry until I left the store, in my Rav, I cried for her, and for the buried memory of me and the Runaway train.  Then of course I began to get militant and say IF THEY AREN'T GOING TO ACCOMODATE ME I'M NOT GOING!  and then I thought how about giving people a choice, to let Amusement parks know...and to keep the power in your hand.

So here is a big message to Great Adventure.  Couldn't you invest a little of the millions you all make to leave a set of six or so seats with the pull down contraption and if it doesn't fit, then a person doesn't have to wait a trillion hours just to be turned away and embarassed?  Even if you could afford two "mock" seats behind a door or curtain to give people dignity...it would be not only a nice jesture but one that saves you from law suits (because your employee said the wrong thing) empowers and broadens your audience.  It is only ....fair, a word we don't hear so often.  It is pro-active and the right thing to do. 

So I say to Micah and Jen if she were here.  Thank you for giving me the confidence to keep riding the rides over and over, no matter how small or large I am.

New Website!

Hey faithful followers!  I am excited to announce the launch of my new website....please, please, please let me know what you think.  Sign on as a regular reader or visit on the wonderful (for some) and dreaded (for others) facebook.  Address and link below.

http://www.travelwidth.com/

Our surgeon general is overweight...

What do you all think of this?  I know I need to catch up with the goods on Mexico, SCUBA, para-sailing, horseback riding, swimming, etc but wow she is in the latest Essence magazine and she is working closely with Michelle Obama and her campaign for the problem of childhood obesity for me it came too late.  But Zumba could be a way, or hip hop dance...no idea.  I just know the Surgeon General has been criticized for her weight yet maintains that you can be healthy at any age and size.  I agree. What say you all?

Okay...Know Before You Go...Puerto Vallarta!

We can do this! Flew Delta they are very accommodating about size you can casually or very loudly, or in a normal voice ask for a belt extender...turns out on ANY flight USA flight you must not sit in an exit row with an extender...most times you are better off not in an exit row as the seats are fixed and can be quite uncomfortable. On my flight on home we were amazingly bumped to first class because Willis was in the first class cabin NICE. Drinks, hot food, belt extender nothing up there is a big deal to me, I would first try to fly Jet Blue because their seats are just comfortable, if that isn't possible before purchasing two coach tickets inquire about first class, if that price is just outlandish ( most are) book on a flight that doesn't have many passengers that way you are not paying for two seats...I say to the airlines how about a seat and 1/2, I think that is fair. Anyway you can always call the airline and at the kiosk before checking bags you can pick another seat that doesn't seem occupied by anyone...its a way to save money. OR you could ask at the gate during boarding "How much will it cost to upgrade to First Class?" It might just be worth it...or just sit uncomfortably for hours, oh another idea book with changing plans in mind this way you get a break from the WAY whack seats that aren't meant for the average person. Your thoughts... Whoa the day when I encounter a disgruntled passenger who believes I am too fat. Would it be fair for me to say "This woman is using a deodorant crystal and doesn't seem to be working I am sick to my stomach." or "This man has been drinking for the past 45 days and I can smell him, move me, or provide me with a lavender spray, or better yet Lemongrass to make my ride doable. It is only fair size, smell...let's not talk about "I wont sit by this man because he is a homosexual or is Jewish. It is the same. So subtle ways to prevent full-figured people from flying. Hmmm how do I take the train to Paris from Kingston?

Know Before You Go!

It would be nice if I could plan my trip around what I know will work. This blog will attempt to do that. If you have anything to add ...places you have been, experiences, warnings and recommendations hit me off. Mexico coming up.

Mexico

Full report hopefully daily on Mexico and the travel there. I plan on the Dolphin Adventure, horseback riding (def weight requirement) SCUBA, no plus size wet suits to be found, and shopping which is my specialty any readers want me to check on anything while I am there?

Zappos!

By error I came across a plus sized section on Zappos...it isn't just shoes, and with a 365 day return policy you can not lose...some links of note:

http://www.zappos.com/xcvi-side-pleat-skirt-cinder?zlfid=111

http://www.zappos.com/jwla-flora-tiered-dress-ruby-red

Unique pieces. Enjoy.

Did you all know?

That according to Delta regulations a person who must use a belt extender can not sit in an exit row? I discovered this one of last trips abroad. I actually copied by hand the law. I suppose the claim is a belt extender can impede those leaving the plane. Hmmm, I am thinking someone with a stylish scarf or belt could impose the same danger. What say you?

Finding my place in the sun

It seems we have been bombarded by websites that offer plus sized clothing but NOT quite. If you get my meaning. Yes I can find a pair of jeans and nice heels and even wear something that is strapless with the right bra but, and this is a big BUT I can't find what I need without a lot of work. I want, what I want when I want it and I want it to fit. I like reading other blogs that are devoted to fashion and fashion based on my square, circle, oblong, rectangle, triangle , pear , apple , peach, or mac shaped body. When I want to purchase work-out clothing, or a swimsuit for my trip to mexico its a big deal. Will I need to wear a bra with the swimsuit YES rrrgggghh that can be quite uncomfortable as I am swimming with the little angel fish and spying for some species of shark or an octopus in the great deep. I have to order it, hope it fits and hope it arrives in time for my trip. I just don't think that is fair, why can't I go to Target, Walmart, Macy's or a local Torrid (which is no longer) and have my swim wear ready to go. Not to mention that I can not find a plus sized wet suit with feminine colors ....which moves me once again to look in the mens department and online. Help!

Jessica Simpson

Hey Check out the Price of Beauty on vh1.com I know, I know, Jessica Simpson but it really is very good. She travels the world with Cacee and Ken and discovers what is beautiful around the world. The first episode is filmed in Thailand. She meets a woman who used creams to lighten her skin and suffered major consequences. And...of course its filled with Jessica's little touches. Oh I adore her.

Should I lose weight to be more appealing to those i teach

I LOVE ZUMBA and I think I am fairly good at it. May 1 is my Im ready date and I will be ready.

Just wanting to lose weight

I just want to lose more weight....any suggestions?

Go to Outfit

Hi readers what is your go to spring outfit for the summer and where did you get it?

Clothing Alert!

I am sure you all have found your way onto etsy.com looking for handmade scarves and mittens, a nice place to sell your wares without the strictness of ebay or my favorite craigslist...no commitments to be had. Etsy.com provides a right side link for plus sizes. This is is amazing you will pay for handmade or antique things in your size 12 and up! So for all of you, like me who love the anthropologie catalog but must skip past to shoes and bags because they only carry up to size 12 if that. Between etsy and eshakti you will be in business. Now if anyone out there sees plus sized activewear comparable to Nau.com....a dream. Oh on etsy they have retro swim suits. Now for you daring plus sized divas there is a wonderful site called loveyourpeaches.com...I have ordered from them for years and you will not be disappointed at the quality and shipping times. Strike out and get that bikini. Who's looking? Everyone and it is a glorious thing.

It suddenly struck me....

Who is my audience? What do YOU do for recreation?

Flightseeing-you can fly over your favorite beach...weigh in required?

The Coastal Living magazine which I adore as I envision my final resting place by the Ocean, easy to clean and oh yes an outdoor shower so that no one including family will track sand through my house. Okay back on topic Flightseeing, Flightseeing is going over a beach a being taken in by what you see. In the March 2010 article Flightseeing is featured and 4 areas are listed:

1) Key West, Florida

2)San Juan Islands Washington

3)Maine Coast

4)Kauai, Hawaii.

Thus far I have only researched the Key West which includes "The Shipwreck Tour over Key West's Fleming Key Channel lasts 18 minutes and costs $140 for two, plenty, of time to take in the string of islands and keys that drip down from Florida's tip Or, go for the eight-minute jaunt at$60 for two Your Pilot-Key West Biplane Tours 877/359/5397 or keywestairtours.com/tours.html-pg. 19 of Coastal Living March 2010

There is a weight requirement 500 lbs between the two passengers, so if you are 280 lbs and your husband brings you over the top one of you won't be going. A person also needs to be able walk up two steps to mount the plane...hmm Mrs. Marci Pavia stated that those with limited ability have taken the ride. I inquired about seating and did they have belt extenders. She ensured that the seat belts were long enough for anyone. This I doubt I would personally purchase a belt extender just so you have your own and you are never stuck somewhere without one if you are going to fly in a city, its nice to have your extender. You can simply google it but look for discounts instead of buying the first one you see. If any of you know of an inexpensive website that sells extender.

What Bra do I wear...Men read your wife will love you!

The worse thing for plus sized women besides not having all of the adorable matching outfits (maybe that is not so bad) is not having the right bra. Then again plus sized women all have different sized breast so I just say to those of you who are a DDD and above the Elomi plus sized sports bra...just google it. I found mine on Bare Neccesities and it was a whopping 60 something dollars but it was SO worth it. It transformed working out for me, jumping jacks, kicking, running, and walking. If anyone else has tried other bras for those size DDD and up please leave comment below. Ah, true freedom.

The REAL question is...

.....am I doomed to continue to learn Zumba, only to be shunned by fitness facilities because I am plus sized? Should a fitness instructor be the way you WANT to look after you have lost those pounds...or someone who is on the journey with you? Beardsley says you cannot stop Talent which she explains your students may want to continue...as hot as they are encourage them. I totally agree. What say you? Do you want to look at your fitness instructor and say I want abs, or thighs, or endurance like them? Or do you say, wow if they are doing I can to, I admire them. The fitness industry seems to be telling me the former. Be fit, then teach. I suppose that is an ideal model what you want your students to do...be the example. Even as a teacher of pre-K, special education, all the way up to At-Risk maximum security criminals I am learning from them and my mistakes, why can't it be the same in fitness? What say you?

Now that I have passed am I too big to teach Zumba?

So you should get a good nights' sleep, which they will send you in an email 7 to 10 days before. Be on time for registration and move into that room quickly Tanya Beardsley is on time, while she is drinking her protein shake (good idea). You begin the morning with a Master Class which is an hour long and you work! She rocks out. The Master Class incorporates moves you have probably done before if you have taken Zumba which for a plus sized person not used to group fitness is a great idea. Well, honestly Zumba classes will probably be your motivation for moving forward and getting certification. The movement is intense and the music amazing. After you break for 10-15 minutes (which I would then suggest if you are interested in teaching Zumba at all JOIN ZIN The Zumba Instructor Network) do it during this break so you don't have to wait in line for hours to sign up during lunch. After your break you sit for a lecture (bring a sweater or hoodie) on the History of Zumba, theory, and the magic that makes that one hour fly by when you are working out....you learn it here...so take notes and pay attention....good time to drink a protein shake and stay light on your feet. Lunch comes soon, warm-up review and step review...after lunch (which should again be light) you are moving all day long up until 6 or 6:30. This is what you sign on for, it is all worth it. At the end of the class you then take another Master Class, thirty minutes long....and it will push you until you don't think you can move. In fact I think I told the lady in line I was so tired I wasn't even hungry...temporary insanity. Tanya is very friendly and will pose for a picture with you. Being a part of ZIN is incredible because you get everything you will need online and you have access to so many workshops for a fraction of the price. I am now signed on to take Zumbatonic (Zumba for children) March 14th in Woodside. I will let you know how that goes. I am looking forward to it. I am tired already. If you would like more information on Zumba....please leave me comments. Off to practice my steps, by the way I am strangely less motivated to work out and I do wonder how I will be perceived as a Zumba Instructor...will people be motivated because they can move more freely then me? Or will they say Zumba is really working for her? I am not sure. I am afraid to apply for a job, although I know I can do it and do it in my own way and style. I am following all the things you are supposed to do when preparing for a class but the question is...

Clothing Alert!

I stopped at the Nike Outlet at Woodbury Commons. There I found cheer sneakers which I thought were a good choice for me. Freedom of movement, Cushioning built into the shoe, and support I need for someone of my size...they worked out well. I would say wear them before class though. They allow you spin and move freely. Nike Outlet also carries sizes 20-26W. Very rarely do you find a triple XL but when you do its worth the look. I ended up buying sneakers, Capri workout pants, loads of tops (some men's) and finally www.LOUD designs in Long Branch NJ hooked me up with some specialized fitness gear....will take photos and post soon. My favorite shirt was designed by Joey and Ashley everyone loved them and I gave out the website and number so expect some work from Zumba Instructors. Check out the Nike Outlet before ordering online, I saved around 200 dollars all in all. Questions just post em.

Zumba Certify...able

Well I did it. I am officially a Zumba Fitness Instructor and let me tell you it wasn't easy. Information on how to become a Zumba Instructor will be posted on my website www.travelwidth.com I am still sore from an entire day of movement. Can it be done by a plus sized person? Yes.

I got a good nights' sleep and awoke to arrive in Manalapan, NJ Elite Fitness at about 8:30am. Everyone was so excited and, well, fit. I was heaviest person there. I really doubted I could do it. At registration I received a bag of goodies, signed in, and boom into a gym full of enthusiastic Zumba trainees. My trainer was Tanya Beardsley a fit, 28 year old educational specialist for Zumba. She also trains ballroom dancers...but she is oh so down to earth. She doesn't mind her photo being taken in fact at the end of the class she said " I don't mind, in 10 years no one will want to take my photo." So until I figure out how to post photos on this blog check out the website and my pics on Facebook, sad I haven't figured this all out yet.

The training started out with a Master Class which is a hardcore high intensity class with Tanya...I was dying, I don't know about anyone else. Everyone else was hooting and hollering about how great they felt. Well I was sore and carrying extra weight doesn't help but it is possible. After the Master Class we sat for a while to learn about the formula of Zumba- a dance fitness program which incorporates mostly international music and a percentage of what You like...by the way Tanya could be a homegirl from "around the way" she ended with Today Was A Good Day by Ice Cube. Honestly I was beat so beat that at the end of the day I told a woman I was too tired to eat...hah. Then Willis was late picking me up and I ended up in a neighborhood Jersey bar almost close to ordering their special for Saturday a Miller Light...crazy. Good thing Willis came just in time...that is how tired I am I mean was.

More Later

Fear

...and so I arrive at my Accupuncuturist who by the way is fabulous Hillary Thing. I go to the table prepared for me, the table I always choose and I almost fall off the table, against a wall and could I end up on the street through the window? The fear of thinking that your weight is what caused the table to break, the fear of not wanting to go for a massage because....you should know everything has a weight limit...a law of physics right Alan?

So its that fear and empowerment at that moment where I almost knocked the beautiful Ganesh off the wall, where I thought...something is wrong with her equipment. It isn't me. That is the feeling people who are not obese feel all the time. How freeing. I am not sure if the Fat Acceptance Movement views this as their motto but it has to be the work I am doing that made me think...it isn't you. That fear drives me to keep blogging, get my cards made, and work on this website because although Carnegie Hall is selling 10 dollar tickets for this Sunday's performance if you sit any higher then the second tier you need to start thinking about what size you are because during a performance years ago...I wanted to see this badly and my buddy Marvin drove all the way with me. The entire night I thought my knees would disengage from my body, he was comfortable. It seemed everyone was. I couldn't wait to leave...and that isn't fair. Some might say lose weight and all these fears will be gone and maybe those that blog about how fat people should have their own section on the plane really believe it. I believe empowerment is the greatest gift, well besides empathy that a person can give. Don't you think? Anyway...on and looking to the day when I have to get an MRI and they don't ask me if I am over 300 pounds. It is possible.

YOLO

YOLO is a fairly "new" sport which involves using a type of surf board to paddle along on the water, people describe it as "walking on the Ocean"...I am anxious to try and so went right to the website that gives great in depth information....but I could not find the right size board and a certain weight limit. So for you out there who have traveled to Florida and beyond and have tried YOLO. Fill us in. After a quick email I was able to ascertain from a representative at YOLO that the weight limits for boards go up to 325 pounds. Any takers?

Quest for clothing

Okay, so in like 5 sleeps (as I would explain to my great nephew) I will be in the Zumba class. Of course I want the right gear, I would love to have ordered from balidog or nau but oh no cannot fit into their really nice Dharma wear anyway...thanks to Ashley and Joey working together I will have a custom Jersey Zumba shirt to wear, of course the shirt material I wanted to be perfect, like Nike for women, but oh no. The search to find, what I would like to be my signature turtleneck, black with capped sleeves cannot be found in any quality. Bravo to Athleta for going up to 2x but looking for dancewear, or workout gear is close to impossible. Nike does have a plus size line, but as you know active wear and especially dance clothing must be tried on. And of course no one can tell me where I can go to obtain this plus sized womens' line within 30 miles or even 50 miles of my home. I could take a chance and go to Woodbury Commons Nike Outlet and probably end up buying mens clothing. The women's clothing for Nike is so nice! Shaped, sturdy, lacking a bit in the styles they offer up to large which is really a 12. In my quest I came across a pair of mens Spyder snow pants only 60 bucks in my, well my man's size and I snatched them up....longingly passing the adorable pink snow pants for anyone size 12 and under. Sunk again. The leading plus sized stores do not carry real wear for active people. Is it not ironic that yes we all need to lose weight and possibly WE would like to look good while doing it? Now I am not suggesting a tennis skirt for a 26W unless you roll like that but I am suggesting a supportive bra that isn't 100 dollars, Snow Pants that are not 169 and low quality, a t-shirt for 60 bucks plus shipping, plus handling, plus I can't try it on. If you have solved this problem please let me know. In a few weeks I will be looking for a short wet suit...I will have to buy mens xxxxxxxxxl. Old Navy offers some great Yoga and workout wear (Yoga pants that can be used to do anything) however, taking plus sizes out of the store, puts you at the same disadvantage...you can not try it on. You order it on-line and hope for the best. Fill me in on some dance wear and workout clothing stores where I can try it on. Wouldn't that be a good idea: work out clothing for people who want to work out. SCUBA gear for people who want to SCUBA dive, bathing suits for people who love to swim, and skiing clothing for people who want to ski. Novel.

Conversation with a little boy....

When I was visiting very good friends in Florida, the son of the family, a child who by the way remembered that I told him I kept a grinder in my basement because bad children have to go somewhere...I will apologize in a big way one day, any way, we were on our way to the paradise like beach where he lives and I was thumbing through Seventeen. I love that mag! The section was on what jeans to wear and what to wear with them...accessorize I suppose the word is. Anyway, one section was on being Pear-Shaped actually they may use a new term for that now, being rail thin without hips, and finally the skinny pants to wear when you are Plus-Sized. His gorgeous sister was on his left, he in his booster seat (what a good mommy) and me plus-sized mind you on his right. He says, hmmm she's fat. What an opportunity! A seven year old telling me what he thought about the woman in the magazine. Beyonce was fat, Brittany Spears was too, the models some were fat based on their clothing. Zooey D, one of my favorite actresses was fat too. My. So I returned to page one and asked him about each girl, well not each but casually kept my cool and said What about her? and her? and her?...He then stated as we neared the end of the magazine that I had skipped the fat ones, which I didn't think I did. I was working on calming his mothers' fears (she is too plus-sized), his sisters' embarrassment ( no need to be I thrive on this objective info) and my excitement at his opinion, knowledge, and well who he might take to his first party. My what we view as fat. I wondered then how deep I could go? Would his mother mind if I asked him, Do kids make fun of mom when she picks you up? Do you wish I was thinner? What is wrong with being like this girl? Is she happier, sadder, smart, dumb? I am still excited to continue this conversation with good ole J.B. He is honest and because I did my best not to correct him he felt free to share his views with me, how often does that happen? Never.

It reminds me of my nephews' answer to his mother while living in Switzerland over 11 years ago, was he even 5? As they walked into the now de-funk (to me) H and M to check out the B and B line, he asked "Mom, what does B and B mean?" "Why son, it means Big is Beautiful!" He stated in the serious tone he uses today "...that's just an advertisement..." How right he was, How right he is.

Zumba Training

I will be going for Zumba training (Basics 1) with Tanya Beardsley on February 13th. I guess we will see what kind of shape you have to be in to do it. I will post details you will need to take the class yourself.