L.I.C. Back Issues - January 2007

Add LargeInCharge to your MySpace Friend List CLICK HERE

Congratulations to our December Raffle Winner: Shumeeka Green from Wauchula Florida

Issue #34 - January 2007

Welcome to the Large In Charge Newsletter

In this Issue of L.I.C

Vote for our 2006 Cover Model - Pick who you want to be the LargeInCharge 2006 Cover Model of the Year.

Feature of the Month - Vuedis.com - The new company for the Big and/or Tall Man! Sportswear Casual and much more!

Enter our 2007 Cover Model Search - Be a LargeInCharge Cover Model, enter now!

Raqui's Spot - A New Year with a New Big way of Thinking!

Papi's Peace - I Resolve...NOW

Good 4 U Food - Savory Crab Stuffed Mushrooms - by Xander

Guest Spot - Free Seatbelt Extensions for People of Size -Muggs Bees

Fashion Furious - Fashion Finds from our readers. Submit your Find.

Product of the Month - Products for People of Size

Ask Raqui - Send Raqui your questions. Get some advice from one Big person to another.

FREE RAFFLE - Custom Designed MySpace Layout - URDesigns.net

Events & Pictures - L.I.C. Delivers Info. on the hottest BBW events, See what we are doing in the community.

LargeInChargeDating - Dating for the Large People who are going to be in Charge of their Love Lives!

LargeInCharge Friends - The Place for Big People to make Friends and maybe MUCH MORE!

Feature of the Month Vuedis The new Clothing Company for the Big and/or Tall Man!

	Vuedis The New Clothing Company who is making casual clothing in sizes up to 9XL comfortable. Men defiantly want to look good and feel good. Tired of the Magazines in which the only Tee Shirt in a 9XL is bored with a pocket? Tired of the Hot stuff only in sized up to 5XL? Tired when only corny wall street looking suites exist for the real BIG MAN? Maybe Vuedis is what you been looking for. Clothing well made to last. A look that you can take from day to night. Special occasion clothing, or something sporty and relax? See if Vuedis has what your looking for. www.vuedisbigandtall.com
Interview with Designer and Owner of Vuedis - Mr. K B Young
Designer and Owner of Vuedis - Mr. K B Young LargeInCharge.com: What is your name? Vuedis: K.B. Young LargeInCharge.com: Where are you from and what is your location? Vuedis: I was born in the South Bronx and live in the State of New York. LargeInCharge.com: Who is the owner of the company? Vuedis: K.B. Young LargeInCharge.com: Tell us about your company? Vuedis: We provide a unique style of menswear from sportswear to upscale designer casual wear for big and tall males. We’re starting to produce woman’s wear for spring 2007 in tops and a denim slack. LargeInCharge.com: How did your company begin? Vuedis: I designed a shirt collar for myself and a custom shirt maker produced the first shirt for me with my fabric. I wore it a few times got compliments then went to an attorney to see if it could be patented. It was patentable so I applied for that after I received the patent I looked into forming a corporation. LargeInCharge.com: How did your company get its name? Vuedis: I was so fond of my patent design of the shirt collar forming a “V” I just had to come up with a name starting with that letter. So I came up with variations of with view. The one that stuck was “Vuedis” pronounced view dis. LargeInCharge.com: Does your company have a motto or slogan; and what does it mean? Vuedis: Yes. “For the big and tall male who wants to dress down with an upscale flair”. Meaning: looking sharp in a casual outfit compared to a big or tall male in a dress suit and Vuedis is looking upscale without the tie on a shirt. LargeInCharge.com: How long have you been in business? Vuedis: 27 months LargeInCharge.com: Tell us about your clothing products? Vuedis: They are unique in design with a signature collar on all shirts. All slacks have no outside seam. I also design trademark mens wear from sports wear to denim wear. LargeInCharge.com: What made you decide to make clothing? Vuedis: I’ve been designing men’s slacks for myself since I was in high school and getting them made at a tailor shop. This led to a trend and have been doing it ever since. LargeInCharge.com: Who designs the clothing you sell? Vuedis: K.B. Young LargeInCharge.com: Are you currently looking for new designers? Vuedis: No LargeInCharge.com: What is the range on your clothing and do you do custom? Vuedis: 1XL-9XL, 1XLT-9XLT, yes, we do custom designing as well. LargeInCharge.com: Does your company do fashion shows, if so where? Vuedis: Yes. So far in N.Y.C. LargeInCharge.com: Do you have a website and hard copy catalogs; how do we obtain a hard copy catalog? Vuedis: You would go to one of these websites and request what you want by e-mail, fax, telephone or by mail. http://www.vuedisbigandtall.com http://www.vuedatwomanswear.com LargeInCharge.com: Tell us about latest fashions and any up & coming products? Vuedis: I designed Vuedis denim shorts and a nano ipod sleeve pocket crewneck t-shirt for upcoming spring 2007. I’m also introducing the woman’s line Vuedat with a signature lapel blouse as well as a “V” neck nano ipod sleeve pocket t-shirt. LargeInCharge.com: Overall, what are your best sellers? Vuedis: The cross collar shirt with matching slacks, trademark long and short sleeve t-shirts also beanies. LargeInCharge.com: Has your company or clothing ever been showcased on Television or in print? Vuedis: Yes, The Ronald Alexander cable TV show two times. Slam magazine March 2006 issue. Upcoming movie “Deceptive” coming to theaters by 2007. LargeInCharge.com: Do you feel the fashion industry is doing a good job providing quality clothing for big people? Vuedis: No LargeInCharge.com: What are the ordering options that customers have? Vuedis: Order online, by fax, by telephone, by mail, or come visit us at the showroom by appointment only or speak to a sales rep. LargeInCharge.com: How long does it take for a purchase to be received? Vuedis: Depending on a purchaser’s payment process. A retailer would have a scheduled delivery. An individual from time of purchase and and payment is complete the order will ship within 48 hrs from warehouse if in stock to arrive to consumer within 5 working days. LargeInCharge.com: What are the refund options? Vuedis: If the purchase was done by credit card the amount will be refunded minus shipping and handling fees when item is returned in same condition unless you want a replacement or a different item. LargeInCharge.com: How do you find your models? Vuedis: I forward an advertisement by e-mail to all as well as make up an ad on Craig list and also post flyers up in barbershops and gyms. LargeInCharge.com: How can someone apply to be a model for your website or catalog? Vuedis: Forward me a letter, e-mail, fax, or call me stating your interest and I would schedule an appointment to have one come in for a fitting and fill out a photo release form. LargeInCharge.com: What qualifications do you look for when choosing a model? Vuedis: Height, weight, facial features and flexibility with there schedule. LargeInCharge.com: Who does the photography on your website? Vuedis: Ms. Julianette Shears LargeInCharge.com: Did you construct the website with the release of your clothing or did it come after? Vuedis: I did it after I had the clothing. LargeInCharge.com: Was the site an automatic success or did it take time to kick off? Vuedis: It took time due to manufacturing issues. LargeInCharge.com: Name some designers and companies you admire? Vuedis: Designer “Handz” Bill Blass, Burberry and Mauri shoes. LargeInCharge.com: What are the most important elements to running a successful online clothing line company…quality; comfort…what is important/ what is not? Vuedis: Photographs, prices, giving options of colors and if they really want it then they’ll pay for it. LargeInCharge.com: Do you feel people of size have made progress in the last 10 years; do you think the internet is part of that progress? Vuedis: Clothing based on design and style, no. When it comes to fits big and tall men complain so that’s why they went to tailors. The internet shows looks of clothes on fit models for show so getting it into the marketplace still makes a difference and lets people know you’re all over so the internet is like a anytime television commercial. LargeInCharge.com: How has the internet helped your business? Vuedis: Letting the viewers know that a big men’s designer is online to get exposure, comments, orders and be known to all. LargeInCharge.com: What can the readers at www.largeincharge.com do the support your business? Vuedis: Give comments to whatever interest them in fashion or how designers should focus on better fits on big and tall males or how to get the products.

	Thank you for Reading The LargeInCharge Feature Please send thoughts and comments to articles@largeincharge.com

Cover Model of the Month

LargeInCharge Cover Model Search 2007 Want to be a LargeInCharge Cover Model?
It has been almost three years since LargeInCharge opened its online doors to the Big World. We started with 740 readers March 2004. We have built up to over 70,000 readers a month. We have continuously given the Big World article after article. Fashion tips and clothing companies. Hot events and self esteem advice. Interesting information and cool products. We have changed, grown and become better. Last year was our first Cover Model Search, here we are doing it again. The response was amazing. The entries plentiful. Yes we want to do it again. At the end of the year we will have a voting poll and the one Cover Model who receives the most votes will win Cash and or Prizes from some wonderful Big World companies. Being a LargeInCharge cover model can be a great add on to your comp card or resume. It can also be a feather in the cap of aspiring models. So many beautiful and handsome big men and women who are not professional models can now be featured where they will be appreciated. NO MORE SIZE 20 or 2XL ONLY MODELS. AGE DOESN'T MATTER. NO MORE FETISH ONLY PICTURES. We like them professional and in all sizes INCLUDING SUPER SIZED. There are no limits with us. REAL MEN... REAL WOMEN... REAL BODIES BE LARGE IN CHARGE... BE OUR COVER MODEL!
VOTE NOW TO PICK OUR COVER MODEL OF THE YEAR 2006 CLICK HERE TO VOTE!
How to Enter the Search
NOTICE - Follow the Directions carefully, if you have a question you can email me and ask before you send in your entry. Any Entries that are not sent in properly will be thrown out. Last year time was wasted because people did not ready the instructions. Take the time to send in your entry properly. Send In the following - You must send at least one of each. One or more Head shot Black & White / Color - in your modeling attire One or more Full body shot Black & White / Color - in your modeling attire Type of pictures Digital or scanned pictures only NO WEBCAM PICTURES, FUZZY, DISCOLORED, OLD The Picture must represent you in your Current State Pictures must be of one person, no group shots. Pictures of Big Males and Females only. Pictures must be clear with no watermarks. Pictures cannot be smaller than 5x7 Pictures must be tasteful and fully clothed - Swimsuit and tasteful lingerie is allowed. No Nude is not allowed unless it is artistic. No private areas shown. Picture Categories - You can send in pictures for any of the below categories Winter - Winter wear, coats etc. and Seasonal type of clothing, costumes and colors. Winter backgrounds scenes Spring - Spring wear, sweaters etc. bright, airy, wind blown. Spring backgrounds scenes Summer - Swimsuits, wraps, summer dresses. Summer background scenes Fall - Fall colors and sweaters. Earthy natural settings. Fall Colors. Ethnic - Ethnic prints and colors. Ethnic combinations of fabric and prints. Jewelry Business - Suite and tie. City backgrounds Sporty - Sports clothing of all types. participating in sports. Jogging, walking, basketball, football, Skating. Etc Exercise - In exercise outfits, gym scene etc. Gothic - Gothic clothing and costumes etc. Solid backgrounds are also acceptable in all categories. You can send in as many pictures of you in different categories as you desire. YOUR PICTURES MUST BE ATTACHED IN THE EMAIL. NOT INSERTED IN THE BODY OF THE EMAIL. When you send in your pictures include the following information: Name: Age; Height: Weight: Sex: Location: Email address: Contact phone number: Address: and the BELOW statement : By submitting my pictures to the www.LargeInCharge.com Cover Model Search. I am allowing LargeInCharge.com to use my images as they see fit. I reserve rights to my pictures. YOUR NAME AND DATE HERE What will I receive if I am picked You will receive a 8x10 printed copy of our Monthly Cover in which your featured. You will receive a free Comp Card made just for your professional use by URDesigns.net You will be interviewed for the Month you appear as our Cover Model and remain in our database. You will be entered in our Yearly Cover Model contest to win Cash and or Prizes at the end of the year. Ready to Enter? Send your information to raqui@largeincharge.com

VOTE NOW TO PICK OUR COVER MODEL OF THE YEAR 2006 CLICK HERE TO VOTE!
Our Sponsors for the 2006 Cover Model Search: www.Raqui.com & www.LargeInCharge.com - Free Web-design for your own website including two updates (does not include hosting) - Total Value 500.00 www.WilkesProductions.com - Free Entrance into the Wilkes BBW Philly Pageant plus Hotel Accommodations. - Total Value $300.00 www.BiggerAndBetterThangs.com - Free One Year Pass to all the BiggerAndBetterThangs Parties for the Winner & a Guest (Location NYC), A gift of the Winners choice from the BiggerAndBetterThangs Store. - Total Value $300.00 www.MaxxDaddy.com - New Monster Portable Chair Holds up to 1000 lbs. The Strongest Folding Chairs on the Planet - Total Value $110.00 www.URDesigns.net - Custom made MySpace layout. Total Value $100.00 www.RosaleeWomenSizeApparel.com - Two piece outfit including Animal print top with sheer sleeves and black capri pants - Total Value $95.00 www.MaryMonroe.org - Best Selling Author Mary Monroe's Most recent works "Borrowed Trouble" and "God Don't Play". Autographed Copies - Total Value $50.00 www.ChunkEBusiness.com - An Assortment of adorable small handbags perfect for clubbing - Total Value $40.00 www.BlissfulElegance.com - The Wedding Planners with Class and Elegance. A Gift Certificate to Spafiners. - Total Value $25.00 www.BBWPress.com - Cash Prize for our Winner - Total Value $25.00 www.LaraFrater.com - Author of "Fat Chicks Rule" a must have resource for all Fat Chicks. Autographed copy. Total Value $15.00

	Thank you for Finding out more about our Cover Model Please send thoughts and comments to articles@largeincharge.com

Raqui's Spot This months Subject: A New Year with a New Big Way of Thinking! Join Raqui in celebrating her 32nd Birthday @ www.BBWPartyCT.com BBW Party in Stamford CT! January 20th 2007

A New Year with a New Big Way of Thinking! It is a New Year. But for me it is not just another year. I truly believe, NO... I know this year is the year in which all my dreams will come true! Finally it will come together. Not only will I be celebrating my 32nd Birthday but I will be celebrating the end of my 3rd year with LargeInCharge. Going into my 4th year, you know it doesn't seem that long ago when I was excited that 740 people came to my site that first month. Now I see numbers above 70,000 hitting LargeInCharge monthly. Makes me a proud Mama you know. Giving Birth to this online newsletter and taking it to magazine with Cover Models and continued interesting articles. Dedicated readers, monthly raffles and loads of important information. I sit here and thinking about what is really important in my life. What I want, what my mantra will be this year. I am a big woman and I want to do things in a big way. Some of you may think that means fame and fortune. Well not necessarily, but it sure wont hurt will it? LOL I have come to the conclusion of what I truly want in life. What does my happy life set up contain. I want to LIVE not merely exist. Some of you may say just because you think you know what your happy life will have in it, doesn't mean you will get it. Well this is where I refuse to have a defeatist attitude. Not only do I know what will bring me happiness. But I know I WILL GET IT. In fact I am already thankful for it. I am so positive that it will happen for me that their is no if's, and's, or but's. I can hear the negativity already thought your minds. Someone out there is saying. Your setting yourself up for the fall. Be ready if it doesn't work out. Well I refuse to see it that way. I am so sure this year will be it that I know it will all come together for me. I have chosen to speak my mantra in my mind my heart and my soul. I have chosen to believe it with every fiber of my being. I am not just making a resolution to try a new way of life. I HAVE CHOSEN MY NEW LIFE! It will happen. I will not accept anything less. Raqui's Mantra - Each person should make there own but you can use mine if you want to. I will love more completely and beautifully than I ever have before. My love will be returned to me 100 fold and I will accept it because it is everything I deserve. Money will be abundant for me from here on out for the rest of my life. Big Giant 6 and 7 digit Checks will be filling my mail box and bank account weekly. I am so worth it! My child will finally settle down and make progress and work out her issues. She will be happy where she is and be able to be trusted. My family will have every dream come true. They will have success in all they do. In every thought and action. Every person will finally find a better way of life and be productive in every way. My daughter's father will have the negative attitude melt away from him. He will realize his actions and his wrongs in a way he never saw before. He is 100 times a better person than ever before. Dealing with him will be easy. Negative people will turn away from me and keep walking. My Friends will be filled with happiness. We will be closer than ever before. Everything they touch will turn to gold and they will receive more wonders than I can imagine. LargeInCharge will grow in leaps and bounds. It will be bigger than I ever thought. I will finally be able to start all the projects I wanted to. I will never die, I will live forever as a part of this bigger life. A Plus Sized one. Happy New Year! Raqui

	ANNOUNCEMENT - Raqui is a new writer to the www.BBWPress.com team Check out BBWPress for her monthly articles.
	Thank you for Reading Raqui's Spot Please send thoughts and comments to articles@largeincharge.com

Papi's Peace This month's Article: I Resolve...NOW

I Resolve...NOW Yes, Papi is back for 2007, and my head is bloodied, but unbowed. Why do I say that? Well, I have been (actually still am) sick. Been sick. Seems like I stay sick. Probably lack of sleep and too much running around with no regard to my health and well being. At least I know, and knowing is half the battle. I am trying to do something about it. Just let me get well. I even felt the sickness as it came on. Actually I usually do. I tried to nip it in the bud, to no avail. I got got! Started feeling it the Wednesday before Christmas. Sick my ENTIRE vacation. Now on the Friday after New Years I am still yuck! And those that know Papi know that Big Bad Papi is a BABY when he is sick. An absolute spoiled helpless child. I admit it. Hell. I am a rock for everyone all the time . . . I can't get a lil' TLC and special treatment when I get sick? Geesh. Well, I think I am going to urgent care if things don't get better. People are now filling my head with things like respiratory infection and walking pneumonia. And of course now it feels like my lungs are filled with fluid. Heavy Sigh. OK, enuff about me. One day I will finish off my “How to Mack” series with the How to Keep Her installment. Until then, please keep Papi in your thoughts and prayers and maybe I will get better sooner than later. I am tired of being sick! And here is a little motivation for my L.I.C. family. A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other. - Unknown May all your troubles last as long as your New Year's resolutions - Joey Adams New Year's Day - Now is the accepted time to make your regular annual good resolutions. Next week you can begin paving hell with them as usual. - Mark Twain A good resolution is like an old horse, which is often saddled but rarely ridden - Mexican Proverb Making resolutions is a cleansing ritual of self-assessment and repentance that demands personal honesty and, ultimately, reinforces humility. Breaking them is part of the cycle. - Eric Zorn I think in terms of the day's resolutions, not the years'. - Henry Moore Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed. - Cavett Robert Sudden resolutions, like the sudden rise of mercury in a barometer, indicate little else than the variability of the weather. - David Hare Necessity of action takes away the fear of the act, and makes bold resolution the favorite of fortune. - Francis Quarles Each sunrise gives hope to your dreams and light to your plans. - William Ngwako Maphoto If you can dream it, you can do it. Always remember this whole thing was started by a mouse. - Walt Disney If you're going to be thinking, you may as well think big. - Donald Trump I dreamed a thousand new paths. I woke and walked my old one. - Chinese Proverb Change is inevitable . . . adapting to change is unavoidable, it's how you do it that sets you together or apart. - William Ngwako Maphoto The mind has exactly the same power as the hands; not merely to grasp the world, but to change it. - Colin Wilson If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude. Don't complain. - Maya Angelou The world hates change, yet it is the only thing that has brought progress. - Charles F. Kettering Change is as inexorable as time, yet nothing meets with more resistance. - Benjamin Disraeli God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. - Reinhold Niebuhr It's not so much that we're afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it's that place in between that we fear . . . . It's like being between trapezes. It's Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There's nothing to hold on to. - Marilyn Ferguson Only the wisest and stupidest of men never change. - Confucius The person who takes a resolution and then works diligently towards it's fulfillment is helped and blessed by gods. He gets easy access to all the means necessary for success, growth and prosperity. - Atharva Veda "I'm a big fan of dreams. Unfortunately, dreams are our first casualty in life--people seem to give them up, quicker than anything, for a 'reality'." - Kevin Costner 5 Dynamite Ways to Live Your Dream NOW! - David Breslow Did you ever say to yourself, "Someday, I'm going to..." and yet "someday" never seems to arrive? Dreams really are the first casualty in life because we give them up based on some past "reality". What do you really want? Do you want to learn how to play a musical instrument, take an acting class, make more money, improve a skill or finish a book you've been putting off? We all have dreams, even if they seem buried within us and we don't notice the flame any more. Too often we allow our failures and near failures from the past to become our current reality and it seems our dreams are out of reach. They are not. We know we've allowed the past to dictate our present when we think or say things like, "I don't know if this will work" or "I can't really do this, I've tried before and it didn't work". These are the so-called past "realities" we've allowed to interfere with our present and our future. If Jim Carrey believed his past was the measuring stick, he would have never been paid $15 million to act in a film. If Sylvester Stallone believed in his past "reality", Rocky would have never been made. Look at anyone you believe is successful and you will find that their dreams were not based on some past "reality" or they would have been dropped long ago. Here are 5 great strategies to turn your dreams into a reality! 1. Be Clear - Any dream requires that we are crystal clear in our vision. What do you really want? Clear visions lead to clear choices and the majority of my clients are not clear about what they want. They think they are but soon discover they are not. "Make more money" or "Being happier" are not clear desires. Be clear on the amount of money you want, the type of business you want, how you will serve your clients, the specific actions that make you happy and so on. 2. See it as an established Fact - My clients find this step to be somewhat challenging. Their logical minds step in and think, "How can I see it as real if it hasn't happened yet?" Dreams are the ultimate use of human imagination at its best. See your dream as an established fact even though it has not materialized yet. The body does not know the difference between imagination and reality and if you imagine your dream as already accomplished, your body will experience it that way and it will propel you to think, say and do things in accordance with it. Jim Carrey wrote himself a 10 million dollar check for "acting services rendered" months before he was actually offered that amount. Jack Nicklaus saw every shot before he hit it and Donald Trump sees a casino on a plot of land before it actually exists. 3. Feel the Passion - This is a crucial element in the process. Feelings are stronger than the intellect and when you add "feeling power" to your images you add a tremendous force toward the accomplishment of your dream. Can you feel how good it feels to accomplish your dream? Imagine yourself earning the money you desire, running a successful business, seeing how your product or service helps customers, traveling, being healthy and happy, building relationships, etc. Generate the warm, powerful feelings that your dream triggers within you and feel it. 4. Bounce Forward - "Bad times have a scientific value. These are occasions a good learner would not miss." - Ralph Waldo Emerson It is inevitable that the path toward your dream will be filled with ups and downs. You will encounter disappointments and nay-sayers along the way. However, these are all opportunities to clarify and enhance your dream. As Emerson writes, "These are occasions a good learner would not miss". Use these moments as lessons and indicators that will help you bolster your dream even more. 5. Act Every Day - "My results today aren't as important as the seeds I cultivate for tomorrow" - Anon. Dreams require daily cultivation. Nurture your dream by paying attention to it and nourishing it every day. This means going through steps 1 - 4 each day and follow-up with action. Make contact with those who can help support your dream. Make the call, take the action and follow through every day. In addition, allow others to support you on your journey. As you envision and see your dream accomplished you will draw the people and situations to you who can support it. Papi's Peace I Resolve . . . NOW re•solve verb, -solved, -solv•ing, noun –verb (used with object) to come to a definite or earnest decision about; determine (to do something) Resolve and thou art free - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow You know what time of year this is. The NEW Year! Oh yes, that glorious time! Parties and hangovers. Remembering and regret. Should we just forget old friends and let them fade away like the passing years? And then the REAL reason the new year is so important . . . New Year's Resolutions!!! You know the drill. All year you complain about work, your mate, your finances, your friends. You say things like next year is going to be my year. Wait until next year and things are gonna change. I am not going to put up with that next year. Then we sit and we make a nice little list of all the things we are going to do this year. We place all our dreams and goals on paper. We eliminate our vices and bad habits on paper. We map out our future on paper. We erase our past on paper. We brag to our friends about what we are going to do now that the calendar has flipped its last page and we are resetting the year once again. OH THE POWER OF THE NEW YEAR!!!! Oh the change that comes from the three-hundredth and sixty-sixth day. Oh the power!! Oh the bullshit. What a crock. Oh how Papi hates New Year's resolutions? Let me count the ways . . . People feel obligated to make resolutions. Why? Because you are supposed to. So now where is the true motivation to even follow through? There is none. Only intrinsic motivation consistently and intensely drive people towards their goals. We don't reach them because everyone else does. The resolutions are procrastinated upon. So how seriously are you going to take them? How hard will you push yourself? You waited until the year turned before you got serious about this? And you expect to follow through? They are fluffy. Lack substance. Look good on paper. They are more about talking a good game than actually taking action. They are more style than substance. They are things U need to do but don't wanna do. They are suggested by others. I could go on and on. They don't work. Hardly ever do. Now, don't get me wrong. I applaud when someone makes New Year's Resolutions and actually follows through with them. I champion the fact that someone wants to make a change in their life. I love progression and advancement. My point is this . . . Why wait? Why wait for the New Year? Why wait to make a change? Why put it off? Why grandstand, show boat, and talk the talk? Why not walk the walk? Repeat after me: I Resolve . . . NOW! Do it now! Do it everyday! I love the quote that said to think about the day's resolutions. How smart. Change everyday. Adjust everyday. Reach for your dreams everyday. RIGHT NOW! Don't tell me what you plan to do on January 1st. Tell me what you did on December 31st. Tell me what you plan to do tomorrow. Tell me about your plans for next month. Make things happen NOW! Here is another quote that tickles me, but speaks VOLUMES of truth. I do think New Year's resolutions can't technically be expected to begin on New Year's Day, don't you? Since, because it's an extension of New Year's Eve, smokers are already on a smoking roll and cannot be expected to stop abruptly on the stroke of midnight with so much nicotine in the system. Also dieting on New Year's Day isn't a good idea as you can't eat rationally but really need to be free to consume whatever is necessary, moment by moment, in order to ease your hangover. I think it would be much more sensible if resolutions began generally on January the second - Helen Fielding Papi says, don't wait for January. 1st, 2nd, or 31st. Resolve to make a change RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW! You will be glad you did. I hope you have an Incredible and productive weekend. Please keep Papi in your prayers as you will be in mine. Remember that I love you! Peace

	Thank you for Reading Papi's Peace Please send thoughts and comments to articles@largeincharge.com

Good 4 U Food Recipes for Good... Healthy Food By: Xander - The Food Dude

A New Day A New Way The rain is a baptism. I am a new man. it is a new day. This is the New Deal. At least the movie says so. I this time of year we all seek to shed the old and replace it with the newer, better thing in our lives. In the regards to the new life we want to create there are others who have said it better and her they are on how to get set for new year. God Bless You All for the new and blessed year Xander Resolutions Did you resolve to "get organized" or to "study more effectively" in 2001? Here are some tips adapted from e-Day-Timers, the planner company, that may help you keep your goals for the new year. TIP #1 Be specific. "Study harder" is only a dream, not a quantifiable goal. Instead say, for example, "I'll study Sundays through Thursday evenings from 730 p.m. to 1130 p.m. And I'll use a planner." Make your goals real and reachable. TIP #2 Keep It Simple! Here's a simple test that Day-Timers suggest If you explained your goal to a very bright four-year-old, would the child understand? If you can answer yes, your goal is clear. TIP #3 Chunk It Down! Break your goal into tiny, ridiculously simple pieces. START NOW! Want to start using a planner? Go to the bookstore today to buy one. Then take the next tiny step... and then the next...and then the one after that. TIP #4 Don't Consider lapses as Failures (and excuses for quitting). Instead plan what you'll say to yourself and what you'll do if you should lapse...so you will get right back on track. TIP #5 Remind and Reward Yourself! Post your goals on stickies on your computer monitor, mirror, everywhere. And reward yourself regularly for successes. They say it takes 21 days to form new habits. Hang in there. You're worth it. The Daffodil Principle Jenny Medeiros, a tutor who graduated in 2002, contributed this story by Jaroldeen Asplund Edwards. In retelling it, I've shortened it considerably. Several times my daughter had telephoned, "Mother, you must come and see the daffodils before they are over." Finally, I promised, reluctantly. I'd driven only a few miles when the road was covered with wet, gray fog. As I slowly executed the hazardous mountain turns, I was praying to reach the turnoff. When I finally walked into Carolyn's house, I said, "Forget the daffodils, Carolyn! There is nothing that I want to see bad enough to drive another inch in this weather!" "I'll drive," Carolyn offered. In a few minutes, we were back on the Rim-of- the-World road heading over the top of the mountain. We parked in a small parking lot adjoining a little stone church. I saw a pine needle covered path, and an inconspicuous, hand lettered sign "Daffodil Garden." I followed Carolyn down the path. Then we turned a corner. It looked as though someone had taken a great vat of gold and poured it down every crevice and over every rise. Even in the mist, the mountainside was radiant, clothed in massive drifts and waterfalls of daffodils. A charming path wound through the garden with several resting stations, with Victorian wooden benches and great tubs of tulips. It didn't matter that the sun wasn't shining. Five acres of flowers! "But who?" I asked Carolyn. "Just one woman," Carolyn answered. "That's her home." On the patio we saw a poster. "Answers to the Questions I Know You Are Asking" was the headline. The first answer was simple. "50,000 bulbs." The second was, "One at a time, by one woman, two hands, two feet, and very little brain." The third was, "Began in 1958." There it was. The Daffodil Principle. For me it was a life changing experience. I thought of this woman, who, more than thirty five years before, had begun one bulb at a time to bring beauty and joy to an obscure mountain top. No shortcuts, loving the slow process of planting. She had changed her world. Her daffodil garden taught me about learning to move toward our goals and desires one step at a time, learning to love the doing, learning to use the accumulation of time. "It makes me sad in a way," I admitted. "What might I have accomplished if I had thought of a wonderful goal thirty-five years ago and worked away at it all those years. My wise daughter responded, "Start tomorrow." Jaroldeen Asplund Edwards Xander - The Food Dude
Xander's Recipe of the Month
Savory Crab Stuffed Mushrooms INGREDIENTS • 3 tablespoons butter, melted • 24 fresh mushrooms • 2 tablespoons butter • 2 tablespoons minced green onions • 1 teaspoon lemon juice • 1 cup diced cooked crabmeat • 1/2 cup soft bread crumbs • 1 egg, beaten • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed • 3/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided • 1/4 cup dry white wine DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish with 3 tablespoons butter. 2. Remove stems from mushrooms. Set aside caps. Finely chop stems. 3. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the chopped stems and green onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in lemon juice, crabmeat, soft bread crumbs, egg, dill weed and 1/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese. Thoroughly blend the mixture. 4. Place mushroom caps in the buttered pan, and stir until caps are coated with the butter. Arrange caps cavity side up, and stuff cavities generously with the green onion and crabmeat mixture. Top with remaining Monterey Jack cheese. Pour wine into the pan around the mushrooms. 5. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven 15 to 20 minutes, until cheese is melted and lightly browned. Serve warm. Servings Per Recipe: 8 Amount Per Serving Calories: 177 • Total Fat: 11.8g • Cholesterol: 68mg • Sodium: 263mg • Total Carbs: 7.7g • Dietary Fiber: 0.9g • Protein: 9.7g

	Thank you for Reading Good Food 4U By Xander the Food Dude Please send thoughts and comments to articles@largeincharge.com

Large In Charge Guest Spot

We want to hear and see your talents!

One of our favorite parts of the newsletter. The Guest Spot is for our readers to submit there talents to be viewed. We want to see all you wonderful supporters making moves of your own. If you write poetry, short stories, commentaries, or just thoughts in general, please submit them to us. If your a designer we want to see pictures of your clothing. We would love to include your talents in our newsletter. We hope you take an active part in the L.I.C. newsletter. Send in your article, poetry, comments to - articles@largeincharge.com

NOTE: The Opinion of the writer is not always the opinion of The Large in Charge Staff. We support the Right to all views. We do not Condemn or Approve writing based on our personal thoughts. We approve writing based on if the subject is a concern for the BBW / SSBBW / BHM Community. Thank you for your writing and please send in those articles! - The Large in Charge Staff

Free Seatbelt Extensions for People of Size!

My Story of Discovery and Safety

By: Muggs Bees

     One night while I was getting into my boyfriend’s truck, saying goodbye to our friend, she noticed that I was getting into my purse and arranging this soft piece of rope by looping it through the seatbelt in the truck and tucking the end bits under by bum, so it looked as if I was buckled in.

“Muggs, why are you doing that?” she asked with a baffled look on her face.

I began to tell her how I have always been a person-of-size, never really being able to buckle into other people’s cars or if I could buckle myself into their car, I needed to fuss around the seat by pushing and tilting the seat back, and still then I could hardly breathe due to the tightness of the belt across my chest. My mother suggested awhile back that I carry a soft piece of rope with me in my purse so I wouldn’t have to hold down the seatbelt across me while traveling in other people’s cars and to avoid the embarrassing situation of not fitting. Since then, that’s what I have been doing, jeopardizing my safety because I couldn’t fit and not knowing any other solutions on what to do to solve this problem.

     Our friend began to tell us that she once worked for the United States Postal Service (USPS) as a mail delivery driver and had to use her own automobile. In order to be proficient in driving and safety she needed to be sitting in the middle of her car to steer, accelerate, brake, and deliver mail out of the right side of her vehicle. She was told to call her local car dealership’s parts department to order her free seatbelt extension as per a new USA law safety belt law everyone must wear a seatbelt while driving. “Not wearing a seatbelt is either a primary offense or a secondary offense. Primary offense meaning a police officer can pull you over for the seatbelt law violation alone, and secondary offense meaning you can only be punished for the seatbelt law violation if you're already pulled over for another reason. As of July 2004, 21 states have primary seatbelt laws and 28 have secondary seatbelt laws. The exception being New Hampshire, which does not have a seatbelt law for persons aged 18 and over.” [Cited from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seat_belt_legislation]

     Thinking about what our friend had said about getting free seatbelt extensions was too good to be true; I pondered about if I really should test this and look into this. The worse thing that could happen is to be told “no.” I was feeling embarrassed and shamed about being a larger woman and not being able to buckle myself in, but I also thought that I had a right to be safe and might as well give it a try! My only other alternative I had considered was purchasing the $19.95 seatbelt kit (http://www.gotbelts.com/unsebeex.html) it was featured in LargeinCharge.com as a product of the month a few months back. [It works by unbolting the main bolt from the body of the car, piggy-backing the $19.95 belt onto the car’s main body frame, then fastening the other end of the seatbelt extension to the original seatbelt with another bolt. See website above for detailed pictures of how this works].
But, being tight on money; and the thought of having to buy one for my boyfriend’s truck, my parent’s new 2006 GMC Yukon [which I found out the kit would not work, due to the seatbelts are not bolted down to the body of the truck; the belt is enclosed inside of the seat], and my car, I was a little put off about how expensive that would be.

     The next business day I called the local GMC/Chevy dealership for my dad’s and my boyfriend’s truck and was transferred to the parts department. I told the sales clerk the make, model, and year of my father’s GMC Yukon, and was asked if I wanted them in six or twelve inch extensions. I explained that I was not the only person-of-size in my family, and he additionally ordered two more extensions for the front and two for the back in the twelve inch sizes! (There is no limit to how many you can have...)
When I ordered the extensions for my boyfriend’s truck which is an older model made in the 1990’s, the tongue (male end) of the extensions were too large to fit the slot inside the truck. It was suggested to me that I try a model a year or two earlier or later …I’m still working on this problem and might have to buy the $19.95 seatbelt kit for the truck for an easier wrapping up and security problem to keep from the belt un-buckling.

     Also, some of the people behind the counter were unsure to give me that “free” seatbelt and the clerk doubled checked on this transaction by asking a supervisor if they could just give me the free parts. In checking with his boss, they said it was free but he took my name, address, vehicle VIN, telephone, and license numbers (and I was never contacted.)

     Four days later the GMC parts department called and said they were ready for me to collect them. When I went in to obtain the parts he was friendly, courteous, and said if I needed more give them a call. (The truck holds seven passengers). I asked if I needed to pay for shipping and handling and he replied by saying,

“Nope, by law they’re free!”

I excitedly walked over to the truck, with my gleaming smile, plugged in the new extensions and discovered they worked wonderfully!! Now I can drive with ease, no ropes pretending to hold me in, or gasping for my breath! Most of all, as a person-of-size I am obeying the law, while feeling safe driving! I still carry my soft rope with me…you know, just in case! I’m wishing you good luck, success, and safety in your quest for a seatbelt extension for either others-of-size or for yourself!

Warmly,

Muggs Bees, MA

Northern California, USA,

LavenderBees@aol.com

Further reading for more information, here’s some websites to offer!
• Information for Seatbelts for Larger Passengers on Most Name Brands and Problem Solving on Hard to Fit Brands. This is a detailed list of car manufactures and some have footnotes on how people have solved problems finding seatbelt extensions for their cars: http://www.ifisher.com/getbelts.asp

• The Seatbelt Pro’s Kit sold for $19.95…Another choice…(that’s if the free seal belt extensions don’t work). This kit might take some money and time to install inside the body of the vehicle, but it ensures a perfect fit: http://www.gotbelts.com/unsebeex.html

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; US Department of Transportation. This is a list of rules and driving regulations with the law.: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/portal/site/nhtsa/menuitem.cda13865569778598fcb6010dba046a0/

• History of the Seatbelt. Interesting facts, history, & such about the seatbelt: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seat_belt

Send in your stories, poems, etc. to

articles@largeincharge.com

Ask Raqui

Ask your Questions and We will answer!

Send your question to Raqui - articles@largeincharge.com

NOTE: The Opinion of Raqui is just that. I do not claim to be professional or to solve your problems. I can however give you a real answer that may help you out.

Ask Raqui

Q: Raqui girl I am so mad. Just because I am fat everyone thinks that my New Years resolution is to lose weight. Why people always assumin shit!!! How do you feel about it. You always got some shit to say. What would you say?

MADD AS ALL HELLO

Raqui: Hey, I am Madd as all Hello from hearing this. Well knowing my smart mouth I would say something like. "No my resolution is not to lose weight! I was praying you would get a brain!"

LOL But no really I would ask people straight out. "Why do you think I would want to lose weight?" "Do you think all people think they are not good enough because they are fat?" "Do you think that my life is not as good as anyone else's because I am fat, and I need to resolve myself to being skinny?"

After that chances are they are either going to feel stupid and shut up or say sorry. Or try and explain themselves in an apologetic way. Just brush them off and say. I am happy with my size I have better things to make resolutions about than what people think the size of my ass should be.

Q: Hello Raqui, I am a big woman and wear a 50F bra. Do you know anywhere I can find bras in my size? I always see the same Goddess bra and hate it!

Betty needs a Bra

Raqui: Betty I know that bra and I hate it to. I wear a 56G, I wish I was your size. I would be able to wear all the cut bras they have in the Lady Grace catalog. Here is the Site. www.ladygrace.com and please send for the catalog so you can get the sale!

By the way look in the BIG Clothing Links page that is on the menu to the left for more great sites where you can find things.

Q: Valentine's Day is coming, I have a special Big lady in my life and I want to buy her chocolates but she is watching her intake. I want her to have a special treat on Valentine's Day but not feel like she breaking her diet.

Loving my Lady

Raqui: You know I have the perfect idea. I got a nice gift in the mail for Christmas. And it is great for those who want to watch there diet. It is a site called www.Berries.com they made chocolate covered gourmet Strawberries. Not just any kind but the most delicious ones I have ever had. They are a bit expensive but not to bad and so good I would spend money just to have them any time of the year.

A chocolate covered strawberry is about 30 calories. True some of these have some extras like nuts and extra chocolate on them. But even at 100 calories a berry (THEY ARE HUGE) They are so worth it and a healthy alternative that will hit that sweet spot and make you the man on Valentines.

P.S. - feed them to her while she is laying in bed and let her sip some champagne! Hey spring for a special nightie and do her right that NIGHT!! WHOO HOO!!!

Raqui

Thank you for Reading Ask Raqui

Please send thoughts, comments and questions to

articles@largeincharge.com

Large In Charge

Fashion Furious

BBW/BHM Fashion of the Month

We all hate how the Fashion Industry is just scratching the surface when it comes to Large Sized Fashion. But I have found out that many clothing stores and online companies are beginning to take up the slack. Creative BBW, SSBBW and BHM's are making there own clothing or mix matching and finding basic everyday wear and night club wear.

Making it affordable is what can be hard so showcase your wonderful finds here. If your a regular shopper, sew your own clothing or a designer showcase your clothing here by submitting a picture for Fashion Furious of the month.

Fashion Furious of the Month
How to send in your Fashion Find. Send a Clear Picture as an attachment and use the Format Below to describe your Fashion Furious picture. Email to Raqui: articles@largeincharge.com
	Fashion Find by: Rosalee Fashion Type: Two Piece Fashion Breakdown: I designed this suit for Pure Panache fashion show and our model strutted her stuff. This is one of the best suits I have ever designed. Elastic waist skirt has geometric angles that are topstitched. White fringe around hemline. Princess seamed jacket to give your upper body that curve appeal. Front separating zipper. Machine wash cold, tumble dry low. Skirt length available- 25, 28, and 32 inches long. Notes on our Participation in the Pure Panache Fashion Show, November 18th, Nashville TN. The Pure Panache 2006 fashion show is history now, it was a lot of work and stress, but when the Rosalee Signature models came down the runway it was thrilling, and worth all that we had to go thru. Description: $89.99 - 99.99 Colors: as seen http://www.rosaleewomensizeapparel.com/

Send in your Fashion Furious Picture and Details to

articles@largeincharge.com

Large In Charge

Product of the Month!

What is good for Big Sized Bodies

A very important and necessary part of LargeInCharge. Find out what is helpful for big bodies. Keep your self straight with some of our tips and tricks. Find out what other Big Sized people use to keep themselves smelling, feeling, looking, and living a proper life. What kind of products are allowed. Anything that deal with the body. From cleaning aids to soap, lotions, powder, healing aids etc. anything that can help a big body!

NOTE: The Opinion of those who submit items are not professional. They are everyday people who found something that worked for them. We are not held responsible for there opinion - The Large in Charge Staff

Send your favorite Item to be Product of the Month - Follow format below, include a picture of product (most can be found online) and Send to articles@largeincharge.com

Product of the Month

About the Product

Recommender: Raqui 


					
Name of Product: Big and Tall Beds


					
Type of Product: Mattress/Bed


					
Cost of Product: Varies depending on size and choice


					
Where Product can be found: www.bigandtallbeds.com 


					
Description: Ultimate Heavy Duty Standard Size And Extra Long Reinforced Premium Latex /Memory Foam Mattresses


					
Why I like this Product: A much needed product if you can afford it.  It will help the body and allow you to rest properly.

Send in your Produ

TIP #1 Be specific. "Study harder" is only a dream, not a quantifiable goal. Instead say, for example, "I'll study Sundays through Thursday evenings from 730 p.m. to 1130 p.m. And I'll use a planner." Make your goals real and reachable.

TIP #2 Keep It Simple! Here's a simple test that Day-Timers suggest If you explained your goal to a very bright four-year-old, would the child understand? If you can answer yes, your goal is clear.

TIP #3 Chunk It Down! Break your goal into tiny, ridiculously simple pieces. START NOW! Want to start using a planner? Go to the bookstore today to buy one. Then take the next tiny step... and then the next...and then the one after that.

TIP #4 Don't Consider lapses as Failures (and excuses for quitting). Instead plan what you'll say to yourself and what you'll do if you should lapse...so you will get right back on track.

"I'll drive," Carolyn offered. In a few minutes, we were back on the Rim-of- the-World road heading over the top of the mountain.

"It makes me sad in a way," I admitted. "What might I have accomplished if I had thought of a wonderful goal thirty-five years ago and worked away at it all those years. My wise daughter responded, "Start tomorrow."

Jaroldeen Asplund Edwards

Xander - The Food Dude