Book Review: The Secrets of Skinny Chicks

     This book actually came out in 2006, but I just noticed it at the book store last week.  I was immediately drawn to it because the author, Karen Bridson, profiles real women who work hard to look good and be healthy.  I began my own weight loss journey more than three years ago, on my 25th birthday.  I have since lost 50 pounds to reach my goal.  I have often heard people say things (about other women) like "Oh, she's so lucky to be so thin."  Even worse is "She must be able to eat whatever she wants."  Luck has absolutely nothing to do with it!  Losing that weight and keeping it off has been one of the most challenging things I've ever done, and one of the most rewarding.  It didn't get much easier when I got to the goal either, but I am learning to adjust my expectations.  I used to think there were people out there who could eat almost anything and not gain an ounce, but now I'm pretty sure if they do exist, there might be two people on the whole planet like that.  Everyone who sets a high standard for nutrition and exercise has to work at it, and if they tell you they don't, then they're probably lying.  I think when people say they can eat whatever they want it means that their appetites are probably in line with their needs.  They have perfectly reasonable expectations for the amount and type of food they need to eat, and how much exercise they need to do to look a certain way.

     What I really like about this book is the realistic view of what you have to do to look like the women (models, actresses, athletes) you've always envied.  Even if you don't want to take it to that extreme, this book is full of tips everyone can use to inspire them along their fitness journey.  Almost everything in this book is stuff I already knew, but we all need reminding of what we can do to be successful.  One of my favorite quotes from the book is "This is not about dieting, this is about changing the way you look at food and your perception of how much you need."(page 137)  This was one of the hardest things for me; changing my perception and expectations of how much food I could eat, particularly once I reached my goal.  It's really important to make the kinds of changes you can live with for the rest of your life, rather than going on a diet so extreme you'll never be able to stick with it.

     The author of The Secrets of Skinny Chicks is realistic and encouraging about what women need to do to reach their goals.  I would recommend this book to anyone who is just starting a diet and exercise program, and anyone who's been at it for a while and needs inspiration.  It is easy to read and something I will definitely refer to again for inspiration and when I need reminding of what I should be doing!  The book covers all the good habits of women who stay thin and healthy all the time.  Don't sell yourself short!  If you are willing to do the work, you can look and feel fabulous!

Knitting Project - Mohair Poncho

I recently taught myself to knit using the book shown in this picture. I learned to crochet a long time ago, although not very well, and I have been using the Knifty Knitter Looms for a while now, but I felt like that was cheating a little bit and I wanted to learn to knit the "real" way. I thought I would have to take a class or beg someone to show me until I found this book at my local library. I have never been good at teaching myself to do things from books, but this book (Never Too Old to Knit: Beautiful Basics for Baby Boomers) has very clear, easy to follow instructions and pictures. It includes easy beginner projects from simple scarves and hats to sweaters, cardigans and socks. Of course I am far from being a baby boomer, but I certainly won't overlook a good book just because it was directed at a different audience. A couple of important points - this book is not for people who already know how to knit. Also it seems to be written by someone who is younger than baby boomer age and while doing research for this post, I read some reviews from people who thought the book was written in a way that was condescending to those of a certain age. I did not sense any of this, but it would be hard to insult me considering I knew next to nothing about the subject when I started. Another thing to consider is the book is sponsored by Lion Brand Yarn so all of the projects use their yarn. I have no problem with this since I actually like their yarn. You could certainly use whatever yarn you prefer as long as it is of the same weight/type called for. I think it is a good book! I checked it out of the library so many times I eventually bought my own at my local Hancock Fabrics. Anyone who is interested in the Knifty Knitter Looms, I still use them and like them and they are easily found at your local Michael's or Wal-mart for the same price as Amazon and you don't have to pay shipping! I will be sure to show you all the finished project when I get it done.