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LargeInCharge Magazine - Eight Years on the Net!

 Issue#95 - February 2012

Welcome to LargeInCharge Magazine

In this Issue of L.I.C.

 

 

Raqui-ism

Words of Wisdom from the Heart & Mind of Raqui

 

Good 4 U Food  ~ Xander

 

The Big GB My Gastric Bypass Memoirs 

Soyna Bennett and Angie Bee

 

From the Desk of NAAFA

National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance

 

Fashion & Products with The WebGirl ~ Lucia Roth

 

Fattitude - Its a Fat way of Life ~ Pat Llewellyn

 

The BIG - Beautiful Inspirational Girl  ~ Ms Suga

 

Big Girl, Small World - Gabriela Falarz

 

Dating Survival for Today's Woman

Kathy Hernandez

 

 

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!

 
LargeInCharge Writer's Search 
Have your own Column in
LargeInCharge Magazine!

Have your own Column in LargeInCharge Magazine APPLY NOW!

By: Raqui plus Online Sources

 

Looking for new Writers for 2012

 

 

About Our Writers Search:

     LargeInCharge is looking for Volunteer Writers for our Online Magazine.  We are looking for Males and Females who wants to write about issues that concern large people.  We need people who will be dedicated to writing columns/interview once a month in a timely manner.  You do not need to be a professional writer,  Good writing, typing skills, the ability to spell check, understand grammar and have your article sent in on time is what we are looking for.

 

     We want to bring the voice of the people to the people.  Give them something they can related to and enjoy on a monthly basis.

 

    LargeInCharge is a non-profit Online magazine which is why we are asking for Volunteer's.  This is a great opportunity to brush up on your writing skills, expand your writing experience and portfolio, or to learn different writing styles.

 

NOTICE:  This is not a responsibility to be taken lightly.  You must be able to hand in one article on time monthly for a period of at least 12 months.  You will be asked to give in three stand by articles for you column for emergency purposes.  If you wish to continue after 12 months then you may stay if your track record is good.

 

We are looking for writers for the following Positions.

  • A Big Man's World - a writer who will write about living life as a Big Man in this Society.

  • Make- up, Medicine and Body - External to internal make your body feel and look great!

  • All Natural - Natural Remedies that help the body be balanced. Catering to Plus Sized People

  • Loving my Big Lady - From a Man who loves big women... to the Big women of the world.

  • Fashion Find - Someone to search for and find Fashions and sales.

  • Inspiration - Inspirational stories, interviews and articles on loving yourself as is.

  • Plus Sized Entertainment - Interesting Plus Sized people on TV and in theater.

 

Would you like to be a writer? Apply following the directions below.

 

     Send in the information below along with a clear photograph of yourself and one complete article at least 500 words.  Please make sure your article is matching the position your applying for.  If you are a versatile writer and applying for more than one position send in one article for each position. If you have an idea for your column which doesn't fit the above categories please give details about your idea for the column along with your sample

 

     Any submissions maybe be used in the magazine as a guest article or other wise if you do not receive a position.  If you are picked for a position it will be used as a back up for your column in case of emergency.

 

I want to Apply for a Writers Position:

 

My Name is:

My email address is:

My Phone Number is:

My location/address is:

The position I am applying for is:

 

Here is my article:

 

I am allowing LargeInCharge to use my image and article as they see fit.  By typing my name and date I understand that I agree to the above.   NAME/DATE

 

Send to: raqui@largeincharge.com

 

Thank you
 
 
 
 
 
 

Thank you for Reading The LargeInCharge Feature

 

 

Announcing our Cover Model of the Year!

 Francisca Ramos!

 

Having entered many modeling contests in the past and with me getting older, I never thought it would ever happen, but it FINALLY did!  Being named model of the month for Large In Charge Magazine is an awesome feeling and now being named Cover Model of The Year is a feeling of accomplishment, pride and joy!

 

Thank you so VERY MUCH to everyone that took the time out to continuously vote for me.
 
This years competition was fierce with two ladies racking up well over 3800 votes a piece.  We here at LargeInCharge have to give a special acknowledgment to the family, friends, and loved ones of Sarah Cobb also known as Syrenne. Having sent in her application early in 2010 and passing before she got to see herself on the cover later 2011.  Sarah's supporters have show there love and admiration of her. 
Sarah will always have a special place in our hearts and to pay tribute we announce Sarah Cobb as our First LargeInCharge ANGEL!

 

2012 LargeInCharge Cover Model Sponsors:

  • www.IGIGI.com - Designer Plus Size Clothing sizes 12-31 by Yuliya Raquel - $100.00 Gift Certificate to purchase from the Igigi website.

  • StarBurstGlass. - a diachronic glass pendant - Value $30.00 - Visit the Facebook Group Buy BBW to see more Starburst Glass - CLICK HERE

  • Bubbles and Babbles Original Gift Basket - Value $30.00 - To see more CLICK HERE for the Facebook Page
  • www.BigWorldWear.com - an Original Tee Shirt Titled "BIG Girls Do It Better" Color Pink and White sizes up to 6xl - Value $27.00
 

APPLY NOW to be a LargeInCharge Cover Model for 2012!

 

 

HOW TO APPLY!

 

 It has been almost Eight years since LargeInCharge opened its online doors to the Big World.  We started with 740 readers March 2004.  We have built up to over 800,000 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.  Online Magazines are the big now, doing better than physical paper magazines.  Any successful magazine must have an online presence.  LargeInCharge has been leading the way for the Plus Sized Community.

 

     Now with our Seventh annual Cover Model Search taking place we are beaming with pride.  LargeInCharge keeps our entrance to be a cover model free by using photographs that the person submits for our covers. We don’t ask for an entry or submission fee from our models.  All we ask for is clear good photographs that would be considered portfolio type of pictures. At the end of the year we have a voting for the public and name one of them Cover Model of the Year he or she wins prizes and possibly money from our sponsors depending on what our sponsors give that year.

 

     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 18 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!

 

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. Take the time to send in your entry properly.

Raqui does not Guide, Help, Preview, Custom Pick Photos of any model or submission. It is unfair to all applicants. All Males and Females are free to enter and encouraged to submit according to guidelines. - Thank you

Send In the following - You must send at least two 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

NOTE: the more pictures you send it the better.

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. (EXCEPTION: photographers watermark)

·         Pictures cannot be smaller than 300 DPI, 800 x 600 pixels

·         Pictures must be tasteful and fully clothed - Swimsuit and tasteful lingerie is allowed.

·         Nude is not allowed unless it is artistic.  No private areas shown.

·         If your pictures are professionally done be sure to have permission from the photographer.

 

PICTURES WE DO NOT ACCEPT:

Cell Phone Camera Images

Pictures with distracting backgrounds  - example: clutter

Webcam pictures

Pictures with Multiple people or with multiple people in the background

Poor lighting or photo shopped edited images

Images that do not meet the size requirement.

 

 ACCEPTABLE:

Pictures are well lit, clear and centered, background is clear and natural, proper size.

You are free to browse our past cover models to get an idea of what we are looking for.

BACK ISSUES HERE

 

Picture Categories - You can send in pictures for any of the below categories

·         Professional - done by photographer

·         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.

 

YOUR PICTURES MUST BE ATTACHED TO THE EMAIL.

NOT INSERTED IN THE BODY OF THE EMAIL.

 

PLEASE NOTE: Cover Model Applications are only taken during the January to - March Months.  You are free to apply while the search is active.  By visiting the active part of LargeInCharge Magazine during the above months.  You cannot apply through the BACK ISSUES.

 

What will I receive if I am picked to be a 2012 Cover Model

·         You will be Showcased for the Month you appear as our Cover Model, appear on the cover and remain in our database.

·         You will be entered in our Yearly Cover Model contest to win a Trophy and Prizes at the end of the year. 

·         For the Cover Model of the Year - you will be featured as COVER MODEL OF THE YEAR for the New Years February edition. You will be required to update us with pictures and a statement.
 

Thanks for reading about our

Cover Model of the Month

 

 

     Raqui the Owner and Founder of LargeInCharge.com, Raqui's  "Tell it like it is" style of writing has brought thousands to her blogs and millions to LargeInCharge.com.  There is so much behind the woman who has brought this magazine into existence.  Being Internationally known as a wrestler/squasher lead the way to modeling for companies and being featured in magazines and documentaries from all over the world.  She has made a career out of her size and personality. Born, Raised and Residing in the Bronx NYC. This city girl is taking the world by storm.

 

     For the past 6 years Raqui officially moved into Size Acceptance and Empowerment.  With the creation of LargeInCharge she took what she said to individuals to a higher level and made it public to the internet world. She is a woman who doesn't let things get to her.  Knock her down for the moment but she will rise up stronger and better.  Being a speaker on behalf of many subjects and counseling Plus Sized people online her grace and style has made people love her.  Raqui continues to set an example of a powerful woman who will bend the world to fit her, her way.

 

     Raqui's appearances include, Uk Television, German TV, Japan, Europe, Sweden and the Spanish circuit.  Her many magazines appearances have been world wide.  She has hit American Television in 2006 with Good Morning American and since has appeared on The Cristina Show,  The Maury Show and The Tyra Banks Show.

To view her Online portfolio visit www.Raqui.com

Raqui's New Blog titled Raqui-ism "Soulfully Speaking! - http://raqui-ism.blogspot.com/

 Raqui Host's Super Sized Seminar at 15th Annual Vegas Bash 2011

go to www.Raqui.com Portfolio Section

Raqui-ism -  Climbing Out of the Hole - Having a Goal! - Back by Popular Demand

Written By: Raqui

Many times in life we feel as though nothing we do can go right. A sore spot turns into tragedy. Sometimes we are bombarded by negativity and we feel as though we are throwen into a deep hole. Repressed and suffocated, we don't see the way out. We want to wallow in the pain, wallow in the negative thinking. Feeling sorry for yourself is addictive. Being the victim a role that is played well because it gives you the attention you need at the moment.

It can be ok to wallow at times but you cant allow it to be a way of life. Difficulties in life while they are hard and unfair happen. They happen to make you a better stronger person, if you learn your lessons well you will be able to throw the positive up against the negative and battle it out for your own good.

Being plus sized often gives us multiple difficulties we have to face. Trying to keep yourself, mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually sane is a task that is daunting. Especially when the whole world is telling you "YOUR NOT GOOD ENOUGH". Societies message is constant and loud. Happiness is a picture and you don't fit the mold. Fat people cant be happy they say, because your fat. You don't fit into the picture of happiness. Happiness is only for the pretty, slim, young people. Not you, you could never be happy because your not good enough. You dont fit the picture that society posts on every bill board, commercial, tv show, magazine and advertisement. Conform, change yourself on the outside, and be like us then you will be happy.

The message is out there and it seems that most people believe it. Even those of us who are bigger in body. No wonder we cant see a way out of the hole. It is so bad that even those of us who are positive cant convince the hurt and humiliated.

I cant tell you how many people I have met in crossing. Some plus sized and some not who cant see there way out of the hole. Not only do they not see the way out but they have a defeatist attitude. No matter what you say, they refuse to try. Every excuse used to not have to face the fact that happiness depends on them. Your happiness depends on you and no cookie cut image will get you happiness. You can only achieve it from the inside out.

Well this month I am not accepting any excuses from anyone. I have heard them all, it is time to change. It is time to make yourself feel good about something. It is time to change your perception of yourself. By achieving you will notice that you feel better. By making yourself feel better you can make others feel better, and I am here to show you a way. Size will not stop you unless you let it. So today I am challenging you to set a goal and get out of your hole.

I have two sites I want to share with you:

www.43things.com - This website I found while searching and it is really great. You register and then type in something you want to do. It doesn't have to be big. You can share in the goals of others. If you see something listed that you have done, you can also click the option that says "I HAVE DONE THIS".

You can make a post of your goal and why you want to achieve it and share your progress with others who have the same goal. You can help each other achieve it. One of the best features I enjoy are CHEERS. You can click cheer and let someone know that you support there goal and even comment to give them support. It doesn't matter if what you want to do is big or small. A lot of these goals can be done at home. When you have completed one of the things on your list you click I HAVE DONE THIS and you can state if it was worth it or not.

Some of you may say, how does completing some little silly goals help me? It is the feeling of accomplishment. Start with small things and slowly you will advance to bigger things. The same way wallowing and feeling sorry for yourself is addictive. So is feeling good. If you can teach yourself to over come obstacles then you will see things differently. Instead of saying "DAMN, I cant do that!" You will begin to say "HMMMMM, I wonder how I can find a way to do this"? BIG DIFFERENCE!

Some of my 43 things I want to accomplish Some of the things I have accomplished

Pay it Forward 339 people W

get married 9520 people

www.HelpOthers.org - This site has helped me a great deal. The whole purpose is to give RAOK (Random Acts of Kindness). The small things you can do for complete strangers in which you receive nothing in return but the feeling that you did something good for someone else. This has such a positive affect. Most people often do Random Acts of Kindness for others with out thinking about it. But this site helps you have a purpose. A place to share your stories. Be inspired by others stories and try different ways to give RAOK. The best feature is Smile Cards. You can earn points for printed smile cards. People have donated money to print these wonderful Smile cards that you can use when your doing RAOK. You can also donate if you wish to help others get printed cards that help bring joy to others. Bringing a smile to someone can make you feel very good about yourself.

Giving RAOK gives you power in a proper way. The power to bring joy and happiness to others, and in return you feel so much better about yourself. Many times we feel as though we have no control in this world. Can you image now through a Random Act of Kindness to have a powerful positive affect on someone's life. Something they will remember for a long time to come. Maybe even inspiring them to show a Random Act of Kindness to another person. Even the smallest RAOK counts. Combat the negativity in your life by practicing and teaching others how to give Random Acts of Kindness.

Some ideas for RAOK:

  • Put some change into a meter that you see it is about to expire.

  • Send a smile card from the site above to a random person out of the phone book.

  • Buy a extra meal or cook an extra plate of food and give it to a homeless person.

  • Help someone bag there groceries at the super market.

  • Donate items for those in need.

  • Volunteer - at a clinic, hospital, nursing home or school.

  • SMILE - sometimes just smiling at people can make them feel better.

I hope that you all try to achieve your goals and do for others. It will chance your life.

Raqui

 


    

 

LargeInCharge Radio - Weekly Radio show discussing Plus Sized Issues.  Friday's 7-9 pm EST - Call in & Chat in our Chat Room.

Raqui's Cool Links

www.raqui.com  

Raqui's My Space Page

Raqui on Twitter

 

Thank you for Reading Raqui's Spot

Please send thoughts and comments to

articles@largeincharge.com
 
 

 

     Xander brings blend of life experience and culinary twist to his writing. From cooking on television and live demonstrations, to writing Xander cook’s like he feels. A former Chicago native transplanted to Tennessee, His goal has been to experience the fullness of food heritage. He believes that as a people and society, can learn a lot from what we eat. Combining a great life lesson and a easy recipe.  They go hand-in-hand to provide a tasty addition to your day. Xander has to confess that ingredients in a great meal are like the ingredients in a great life are never far apart.

 
   

Battles We Must Fight

by Xander The Food Dude

 

In mid-December my mother had one of two massive strokes.  These occurred about a week apart from each other.  They robbed her of her ability to use the right side of her body and she cannot speak.  In the seven weeks since the start of this journey I have often cursed the fates, tried to blame someone for what had happened, and given into the feeling of hopelessness and despair.  I have walked on the edge of giving up before this journey has even begun.  Even now after weeks of sleeping mere feet from my mother in the many hospital rooms, I worry if this is the night that I lose my mother. 

 

The night is the worst time, when very little distracts your focus from her breathing and how shallow it can become.  You watch and wait as each little part of you wonders “don’t let that be the last breath, please God !!, help her.  You spend your time in prayer that God should take my life before my mother’s.  You make every deal you can in your mind with whatever cosmic force will potentially listen to you in an effort to keep her alive a little longer.  Finally, resignation comes in the form of asking that she should not be in pain, you would do anything to at least stop her pain.  If she has to die at least don’t let her be in pain.

 

This would give you a good representation of what my last seven weeks have been like in the late evening and early morning.  My friends have done their best to reach out to me, but I can only isolate myself even more.  There are only two things in my universe right now, my mother and what I have to do to help her.  The exhaustion falls into place and in those times I finally find a few moments of rest.  I have given up the fight.  I have nothing left to do battle.  Through this all I have tried to be conscience about a “lesson”, any lesson I should be learning, but up until now it has escaped me.  I finally got it yesterday.

 

After  many days of illness and sickness, my mother is finally well enough to be involved with her physical therapy and speech therapy.  While progress has been very small, they can see some level of progress.  Over the last three weeks all the nurses and therapist constantly tell me what a sweet mother I have.  I see the way that she interacts with them, the waves and excitement on her face when she sees them in the morning and how they look at her when they get her into bed after therapy or other treatment.  These folks have taken care of and even fought for the care of my mother.  In a word, that have loved her like she was family.

 

For the most part my mother is a very sweet lady, good disposition, but the folks that work with her often say she will touch their hand, arm or shoulder in reassurance to them and simply say the one word she can say “Good”.  One night I heard a nurse tell my mother that she (my mother) made her job a joy.  The message finally hit me.

 

Despite the lack of words or ability to do many things that she once could, she still has the ability to reach out and touch people, not just physically but on a spiritual level as well.  I was reminded once a again that we are all more than the sum of our parts, that we too have the full ability to “touch” others in a positive way if we just use what God has given us to do just that.  I can tell you that in that particular moment I was washed in a sense of awe and shame.  The awe can from what I had forgotten about our mission in this life…to help others.  The shame was from coming close to giving up on one person I should never give up on.. my mother.

 

We al have our own battles.  Sometimes we admit defeat before we even start.  But we must continue to fight the necessary battle everyday, if not for ourselves then for someone else.  When we get week we need to seek the guidance and counsel of those we trust the most.  In that way, no matter the outcome, we can at least always fight the battles that need to be fought.  My mother and I have only begun the journey of her recovery.  Together we stand resolute in the eventual winning of the day.  To this end I pledge myself, because I owe nothing less than everything I am to my mother.

 

From this day forth, pledge yourself to fighting those battles that need to be fought.

 

God bless each of you until next time.

Xander

 

Xander's Recipe of the Month
   
Tailgate Superbowl of Chili

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef chuck
  • 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
  • 3 (15 ounce) cans chili beans, drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can chili beans in spicy sauce
  • 2 (28 ounce) cans diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 2 green chile peppers, seeded and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon bacon bits
  • 4 cubes beef bouillon
  • 1/2 cup beer
  • 1/4 cup chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce (e.g. Tabasco™)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 1 (10.5 ounce) bag corn chips such as Fritos®
  • 1 (8 ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese

 

Directions

 

  1. Heat a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Crumble the ground chuck and sausage into the hot pan, and cook until evenly browned. Drain off excess grease.
  2. Pour in the chili beans, spicy chili beans, diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Add the onion, celery, green and red bell peppers, chile peppers, bacon bits, bouillon, and beer. Season with chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, oregano, cumin, hot pepper sauce, basil, salt, pepper, cayenne, paprika, and sugar. Stir to blend, then cover and simmer over low heat for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  3. After 2 hours, taste, and adjust salt, pepper, and chili powder if necessary. The longer the chili simmers, the better it will taste. Remove from heat and serve, or refrigerate, and serve the next day.
  4. To serve, ladle into bowls, and top with corn chips and shredded Cheddar cheese

 
 
   
 
   
   
   
 

Thank you for Reading Good Food 4U

By Xander the Food Dude

Please send thoughts and comments to

articles@largeincharge.com

   

In 2007, Sonya was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes; a generational curse that she had prayed to avoid, but didn’t worry about while she piled butter pecan ice cream on her German Chocolate Cake.    Only a few months into this diagnosis, she woke up one morning unable to walk and in excruciating pain in her left foot.  Doctors finally diagnosed an acute tendonitis, exacerbated by uncontrolled diabetes. 

That was the wake-up call, She had suffered for years with high cholesterol and sleep apnea; all associated with her weight,  it wasn’t until this happened (wheelchair bound for a month and on crutches following that) did she tell herself "I have to do something about my weight."  On April 17, 2008, Sonya had the gastric bypass medical weight loss procedure and it was the best decision that she made for herself.  In these upcoming writings, Sonya invites you to learn the ups and downs of gastric bypass: through the eyes of one who lives it every day.

Now Sharing her story Angie Bee  (Sonya's Sister) is sharing her Similar but entirely Unique Story with LargeInCharge Readers through Sonya's Column.
 
Angie Bee - It Looks Good on Me!
with Sonya Bennett & Angie Bee

 

WOW!  That dress looks great on you!

Your hair looks good today!

What lipstick shade are you wearing?  It looks nice on you!

 

Compliments can really make us feel good.  Some compliments are constructive (don't you think those pants are a little too tight?) and some compliments are flattering (You smell so good!  What perfume are you wearing?) People deliver compliments freely sometimes and in most cases without remorse, but when was the last time you gave YOURSELF a compliment?  When was the last time you took charge of your own endorphins and gave yourself a boost of compliments?

 

On February 28th I celebrate the one year anniversary of my weight loss surgery.  During this past year I have received numerous compliments from those close to me and from those meeting me for the first time.  The comments that I have received have just been too kind, but what I am most proud of are the compliments I am now able to give to myself. 

 

"Wow!  I walked the entire 1.5 miles of this shopping mall!"

"Wow!  I did 15 laps in the swimming pool"

"Wow! my blood sugars are STILL normal"

 

It feels good to look in the mirror and to enjoy the face that is looking back at me!  It is a thrill to go to a doctor's visit and not receive a "gloom and doom" medical report! (your high blood pressure... your sleep apnea... your diabetes... yadda, yadda, doom and gloom)  It feels good to go shopping with your daughter and it feels good to be ME!  

 

"Are you sure this dress isn't too tight?", I asked my daughter as I pulled the dress down over my head.  "Mom, you have got to stop swimming in your clothes!  Everything you wear is too big!" she replied.  "But, the tag on this dress can't be right!  It says 14/16.  Go get a larger size!" - Then, the dress smoothed out over my hips and I looked at myself in the mirror.  All I could do was smile.  "It looks good on ME!"  I just couldn't believe it!  I know that I am a good-looking woman... but now I am a good-looking, excited, healthy and FABULOUS woman!

 

During this past year, I have launched a new concert tour and a brand new magazine for teens and young adults (www.PureMag.org).  My syndicated radio show added a new network and timeslot and I prayed while my daughter finished high school.  This past year I came off of 13 different daily prescriptions medications including injections and I saved my insurance company $1200 per month in prescription costs.  This past year I lost over 100 pounds and went from a size 26/28 to a 14/16 (I still think that tag on that dress was wrong...  lol) - During this past year I received compliments and I gave compliments.  I fell in love with a man that adores me and I am now completely off all depression and anxiety medication (Praise GOD!)  This past year I spoke at a funeral and rejoiced over a wedding.  This past year, I realized that I LOOK GOOD ON ME!

 

What's coming up this next year?  Only God knows for sure, but I have a pretty good idea.  I look forward to traveling with the tour that Angie BEE Presents (www.AngieBEEpresents.com) and I look forward to my daughter's graduation and the birth of my first niece.  This year I look forward to losing another 70 pounds and I am enjoying swimming at the YMCA.  This year I look forward to visiting with my family and taking pictures with each of them and I look forward to promoting my new book and speaking on how God saved me from three suicide attempts.  This year, I look forward to walking more and talking less (lol) and I look forward to coming back each month to offer updates to each one of you.  

 

Happy anniversary to all of you on your perspective dates of joy and celebration.  Keep me in your prayers this month and don't forget to complement one another.  

 

 Bee Blessed

 

 

Angie BEE

Author, Magazine Publisher, Producer, Promoter &

The Host of The Hottest Home Hotspot WORLDWIDE

Syndicated Holy Hip Hop Radio Show

www.AngieBEE.com

Last Week I wanted to Die!

NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE!

http://www.amazon.com/Last-Week-Wanted-Die-ebook/dp/B004ZLTM5O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1324757865&sr=8-1


 
   
 

Thanks for reading

The Big GB - My Gastric Bypass Memoirs

Sonya's Links:

www.SonyaBennett.com

Sonya Bennett on Facebook


     Founded in 1969, NAAFA is a non-profit civil rights organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for fat people. NAAFA works to eliminate discrimination based on body size and provide fat people with the tools for self-empowerment through public education, advocacy, and member support.

 

     This Column is dedicated to the tremendous work NAAFA has been doing for over four decades.  LargeInCharge wishes to support NAAFA in spreading the word of its work, and give the public more information into issues we as plus sized people should be aware of.  The fight for equality for people of all sizes is one we support.

    

     This Column will include News Releases and Calls to Action from NAAFA Directors.

 

This Column has been Approved by NAAFA.org
 

Obama Being Bullied!   - NAAFA Convention EARLY BIRD SPECIAL!

from: NAAFA.org

 

Obama Being Bullied!

As the civil rights organization working to end discrimination based on body size, NAAFA would like to remind our nation's right wing political leaders that hateful slurs and disparaging remarks about First Lady, Michelle Obama's body is bullying. 

One of our nation's lawmakers made a remark about the size of the posterior of the First Lady of the United States of America in a public place where it could be overheard and reported.  A former presidential hopeful, once a fat person himself, called the First Lady "Mooochelle" on public radio.  Taunting is a form of bullying.

Our nation is spending millions of taxpayer dollars on campaigns to end bullying in our schools while the leaders of our country openly and publicly bully our First Lady.  This has to stop!  If these individuals cannot set good examples for the children of our nation, they do not deserve to be leaders!

NAAFA calls upon these individuals to grow up.  Act like adults.  Apologize to First Lady, Michelle Obama, and to the people of this nation.  Tell our children NOT to follow your example but to learn to accept one another and treat everyone with respect and dignity without regard to body size or shape.

                                                ~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

NAAFA Convention EARLYBIRD SPECIAL!

NAAFA is pleased to announce that we will return to the San Francisco Bay Area for our 2012 fund-raising convention.  We have worked hard to keep the cost of this convention down and to move quickly in making our convention package available in time for you to give or receive a convention package for the holidays!  

NAAFA is once again offering a Early Bird Special price is $199.00 from January 1 through May 31, 2012.   Beginning June 1, 2012, full convention price will be $265.00. 

The 2012 NAAFA Convention Package would make a great holiday gift for you, your family and all your friends!  Can’t afford a convention package?  Why not give a one year contributing NAAFA membership for only $15.00? 

Make your reservations at the Westin San Francisco Airport Hotel. Room rates are $89 per night!   This group rate will be available until July 10, 2012.  Westin is prepared to receive your NAAFA convention reservations today at:  https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/StarGroupsWeb/booking/reservation?id=1112156171&key=A819C

We encourage you to register for the NAAFA convention package today and to fully participate in this life-changing event.  We made it easy for you to register for the convention as well as the hotel through our website at www.naafa.org.  Watch our website for more exciting details as they become available.

Founded in 1969, NAAFA is a non-profit human rights organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for fat people.  NAAFA works to eliminate discrimination based on body size and provide fat people with the tools for self-empowerment through public education, advocacy, and member support.

On the web:  http://www.naafa.org

 

 

Thanks for reading

From the Desk of NAAFA

Link

www.NAAFA.org

    

Our WebGirl Lucia Roth, was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. Graduated with a B. A. degree in Communication from Southeastern Louisiana University and is considering going back for her Masters degree. Lucia a people person and is always willing to help out a friend in need. She enjoys music, movies, poetry, and good book on a rainy day. Lucia has several mottos about life.


This is one: Knowledge talks, wisdom listens.

 

I just wanted to re- introduce myself, since I just joined Large In Charge magazine last year. My name is Lulu, and I am a fashion writer for largeincharge.com I am a fashion junkie:) I look forward to finding wonderful fashion find and product of the month for you. I also look forward to chatting with you all an reading some good fashion comments! Please let me know if you have a favorite. Web_girl1999@yahoo.com

 
 

The WebGirl Picks of the Month
Fashion Find Product of the Month

Fashion Find

Fashion Find:  Lane Bryant

Sale Price: Limited Time Offer 65% off clearance

 Link: http://www.lanebryant.com/plus-size-sale-clothing-initmate-apparel/4053/index.cat

65% off clearance! Hey ladies… greeting, from my sales closets. Did you know that every sale is a good sale, and if you’re looking to save some extra pennies Lane Bryant is the perfect place to find all the cutest items for your buck!

 

 

Product of the Month

Recommended by: Lucia

Name of Product: M&M'S (Personalize)

Type of Product: Candy

Where Product can be found: http://www.mymms.com/holidays/valentines_day.aspx

 

Description:  It’s that time again! Valentines’ Day, and what is the best way to show that special someone how you feel about them? Personalize M&M'S.  

 
 

Pat is a forty something woman living in Southern Ontario, Canada. She has a varied past and has worked teaching literacy and English as a second language to adults, as an environmental science technician and in the health and safety field. Currently she works in marketing.

Pat fiercely believes in human rights for all and has volunteered for organizations that raise funds and develop and implement programs to help impoverished people and educate women in third world countries. Although relatively new to the size acceptance movement, Pat believes with all her heart that people of size deserve equal treatment and respect.
In her spare time she likes to read fiction, go to bashes and spend time with friends.

Will you be my Valentine?

with Pat Llewellyn

 

Valentine’s Day is one of the holiday’s that single people dread.  I know so many women, who are smart, beautiful and who have great lives, get depressed at the thought of being alone on Feb 14th. I don’t get it. It’s only a day. They are single the rest of the year and they are perfectly fine with it. Why does it take a manufactured holiday to send them into a funk?

Most couples I know actually don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day and the few that do make sure it’s low key. 

My 16 year old niece was complaining to me that she didn’t have a boyfriend and she’d be alone on Valentine’s Day. I tried to explain to her that it didn’t really matter and that she shouldn’t worried about it.  It’s frustrating to see kids indoctrinated into this line of thinking.  We really need to stop basing our self-worth on our datability or relationship status.

We need to focus on our lives as a whole and start appreciating the things we have (a home, a job, etc…) the people we have in our lives and our positive qualities. These are the things that will bring us joy.

Don’t get me wrong, being in a relationship can enrich our lives. Sadly, many people are afraid of being alone, so they negate their own self-worth and date people who treat them poorly and stay in relationships that are unhealthy.

I challenge all of you single people out there to take control and realize that being single isn’t a bad thing. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to do it. I’ve told me niece that she and I will hang out on Valentine’s Day. You can do it too… Buy yourself flowers or chocolates. Find a single friend and hang out with them on the day. Have an anti-valentine’s day party and invite singles and couples. Take yourself out to dinner or order in. To those of you, who are in unhealthy relationships, break free.  Decide that you are worth more and that you can and have it all. Make the choice to have people who love and support you in your life and to let go of those who cause pain and drain your spirit.

You really don’t have to fear Feb, 14th. It is just a day…

 

Lots of love

xoxo

Lulu

P.S. I know the past few months my post had become very somber. I’m happy to report that my depression is lifting and I’m feeling better every day.


 

     Ms Suga is a plus size woman hailing from Sunny South Florida. She is a 24 year old recent recipient of a Bachelor in Arts degree in Communication Studies. Being plus size for the majority of her life she has overcome many obstacles to finally come to the point where she is fully content with herself and her life. This self love has also allowed Ms Suga the privilege of sharing her love with those around her. She is very passionate about life and loves to help others.

     Ms Suga likes to see herself as the one everyone can go to for positive, inspirational and truthful words of advice and/or support. She is the Beautiful Inspirational Girl that is blessed, intellectual, trustworthy, caring and hardworking.

     Ms Suga has had a passion for writing since she was a little girl when she used to think of short stories about what her life would be like as she got older. This is Ms Suga’s first opportunity for her thoughts to be public for the world to see. Excited about this column Ms Suga is also very optimistic of her future in writing and promoting self love and acceptance in the plus size community.

 

Be True to Yourself

with Ms Suga

 

 

Now that the New Year hype is over. it's time we get back to a topic that I can’t help but stress over and over again... self-love. If you don't love yourself how can you expect anyone else to love you too? When I say I love myself, i mean i love and accept me for the person that i am. I love every strand of hair, every mole and every flaw; I love every imperfection that puzzles together to make an imperfect me. But I didn't get this way over night. I have had many experiences that make me the woman i am today. Experiences can be heartbreak, death of a loved one, an accident, an illness, a screw up and a bad decision. All these things make me into the person I love...

 

 So consider your experiences as a whole both positive and negative...What life lessons came from those experiences? Did you truly take away the good the bad and the ugly? Or did you choose to ignore the lesson all together?

 

Cicely Tyson said during an interview with Oprah Winfrey

 "I am the sum total of my whole life's experience. I think i have profited more from the negative. I relish more and treasure the negative more because if i have been able to survive it and reach another level that has given me more growth, more strength, more confidence. It has enriched my life more... If you have a negative experience which you think will bring you to your knees and it doesn't and you survived that. You're that much stronger, you're richer, you’re fuller. You're more in touch with what God wants you to be."

 

Mrs Tyson's words bring me to my current mindset...Be true to yourself. Live your life the way you chose and open your mind and your heart to the lessons you receive. Every person you encounter and every problem you face is a blessing. Regardless how you handle them always know that the people and problems you encounter are put in your life for a reason. Some for a lifetime and others for just a season. I suggest we all take into account Mrs. Tyson's words and try applying them to our lives.

 

Take for instance that person who stole something from you, instead of hating them with everything in you. Forgive them and then take that lesson of trusting people too quickly and allow yourself to be more conscious of those in your inner circle. I'm not saying in anyway be a pushover however don't let one person ruin your future.

 

Ms. Suga

 

 

 

Gabriela Falarz lives in Toronto, Canada. She has been up and down the scale for most of her life (mostly up), and is proud to say that she loves herself no matter what her size, although it has definitely been an evolution.

 

She blogs about size acceptance in her blog, Celebreight Yourself (www.celebreightyourself.blogspot.com).  Gabriela discovered Large in Charge Radio about a year ago and has been hooked ever since. She is thrilled to be writing for Large in Charge and to be part of an organization that helps all large people realize how beautiful, special, and amazing they are.

 

Baby... You are So Beautiful! 

with Gabriela Falarz

 

I saw this question the other day, and I thought it was a great one:

Is it possible for a woman to have a satisfying sex life if she has a terrible body image?

Really think about that. Suppose you had a body like Marilyn Monroe, but for whatever reason, every time you looked at yourself, you thought you were hideous. How do you think that would affect your sex life? It’s pretty much a no-brainer … no matter how great you looked, you wouldn’t enjoy sex. You’d always be anxious, always be wondering if your partner was thinking you’re too fat/skinny/whatever.

On the other hand … if you have a less-than-perfect body (by society’s standards) but think you are the sexiest, hottest mama alive … do you think you’ll have a great sex life? Honey … you know the answer to that question!

Sex is important. It’s a vital part of life. However, people regard sex in as many different ways as you can imagine. I know people who think it isn’t important at all. I know other people who think it’s the only pleasure worth having. There are people who think that sex is sacred and others who think it’s meaningless—a mere physical interaction. There are as many different attitudes toward sex as there are people in the world. One truth is universal though: you will never truly enjoy sex unless you enjoy your body. 

It doesn’t matter if your partner thinks you are a god or goddess: if you don’t think so, he or she might as well be speaking a foreign language to you. I was with a guy once who was totally crazy about me, in every way. He told me repeatedly: You are so beautiful. You are so gorgeous. You are so sexy. Not only that, you’re smart. You have beauty and brains. I can’t believe how lucky I am. I have never been with a woman as beautiful as you. Every time I see you, you get more beautiful.

It was nice. Really nice. I would smile and look away, and he would look at me and say: You know this about yourself, right? You know that what I’m saying is true?

And I would say yes, but there was something … and he could see it. He said: You don’t give yourself enough credit. Why?

He was right. When he would say those wonderful things, I started thinking: Well, it’s great that he thinks so. But would most people agree with him? Probably not. They’d probably say he was nuts. They’d probably say he was just saying that to get laid.

All those negative thoughts started creeping in and overshadowing the wonderful things he said to me and I realized … I was giving  more credence to what other people thought than the person I was with. How crazy was that? I wasn’t going to bed with the majority! I was with him! He thought I was amazing … so why was I letting what other people thought intrude and interfere with what could have been an incredibly satisfying, romantic, intimate experience?

Just imagine … if I had been as crazy about myself as he was about me … how would that have translated in the bedroom? Do you think that if I would have been as in love with my body as he was that I would have fully enjoyed every kiss and caress? Believe me … I know I would have!  

It’s certainly important to have a partner who truly loves and respects you so that you can feel safe enough to open up with them and share yourself … but that’s only half the equation. Let’s face it—most women know how to fake orgasms. It’s pretty easy to fake your way through a sexual encounter and make your lover think you had a great time. But if you didn’t, what are you proving? Are you going to keep faking it through the whole relationship? Don’t you think that sooner or later your partner will be able to figure it out?

We really need to start falling in love with our bodies. We need to appreciate them, respect them, and value them. So what if we don’t look like the ideal? If there is even one person out there who thinks we are incredible, isn’t that enough?

If it’s not, the problem might not only be a sexual one. It might have more to do with your ego than anything else.


 

Kathy is originally from a small town in Michigan but has lived in San Diego County since she's been 18 years old.  Kathy graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelors in Finance in 1999.   She has a real estate broker’s license and works as a mortgage banker.  

 

Kathy also owns BBW Club Catalina in San Diego which has monthly night club parties and other fun events on a frequent basis.  Kathy has been an avid supporter of NAAFA, Vegas BBW Bash and San Diego BBW Bash and believes in size acceptance and health at every size.  

 

Kathy is a firm believer that people need to have a full life by going to the movies, dinner, bowling, dancing and anything that will make them a happier person and not wait til they are at the perfect size to start living their life to the fullest. 

 

Kathy is in her mid-40's and her children are grown and living productively on their own.   In her spare time she likes trying new restaurants, dancing, modeling, bowling and spending time with family and friends.

 
 

Are you Dating a Sociopath and how to tell the Warning Signs

with Kathy Hernandez

 

Have you dated the charming, handsome man who turned out to be a sociopath and it took you awhile to figure out that is who he was and discover that a sociopath just can't be changed?  

 

I'm not talking about a psychopath but a sociopath and the main difference is that the psychopath will physically hurt you and possibly kill you and the sociopath will most likely stick to emotionally hurting you.  What are the signs of a sociopath?

 

Sociopaths have superficial charm and they will tell you everything they think you want to hear so they sounds so romantic and caring, but it's all just a very well orchestrated act to get your attention.   Sociopaths and manipulative and very cunning, they will make you think that everything they think is the only way to think and the way that you should think also. 

 

They use this to dominate and humiliate you to make you submissive to them.  Sociopaths are pathological liars and can convince you that their lies are the truth and make up dramatic and extensive lies to make you think what they are telling you is the truth.   I have found that these pathological liars can't remember what they told who and this is when you will catch them in their elaborate lies.  

 

They have a grand sense of self and feel like they deserve anything and everything they want or see.   The true sociopath will have absolutely no remorse, guilt or shame in anything they do, you are not a person to the sociopath but a target and an opportunity to control you as long as your reactions are fun and interesting to the sociopath.  Sociopaths have shallow emotions and usually have never been in love because this is an emotion that they are incapable of.   They are very capable of lust but love is something that has always eluded them in their life.  They are typically very promiscuous, like living on the edge and doing dangerous things.  

 

They lack empathy and can't feel sorry for what you are going through in your life but they try to emulate empathy but they won't do a good job of it.  Sociopaths are known to fits of rage and then they will be there to lend a sympathetic ear and tell you what a great person you are, tell you how beautiful you are than the next minute they will bring you crashing down by insulting and belittling you.   This helps keep you exactly where they want you at which is wanting to earn their approval.   

 

Sociopaths tend to move around a lot and have a poor work ethic and don't have many goals of a productive career.    Sociopaths will change their appearance to avoid criminal persecution and changes their story about their lives when they move from city to city.   The sociopath is oblivious to the problems they will cause you and how they wreck the lives of the people they come into contact with and they don't care even if it's pointed out to them. 

 

I found this medical definition of a sociopath:   

 

Antisocial personality disorder is a psychiatric condition in which a person manipulates, exploits, or violates the rights of others. This behavior is often criminal. 

 

I feel I have dated two men whom I think are sociopaths and if I had known the warning signs than I wouldn't have dated them nearly as long as I did.   I think I have learned important things in every relationship I have been in whether it has been a good or bad relationship but I will pass on dating any more men who are sociopaths and look for the loving, caring man who can truly love me with his whole heart versus faking what he thinks love is.

 

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