Introduction

This is my first post here on Vocal so I thought I would take this opportunity to write a little about myself in case you have stumbled across this post or my profile and are curious about what you might read as I tend to write what I know... which is from my own experiences.

I am 44 years old, married for 24 years, no children but 2 fur babies, currently living in Ottawa Canada. Both my husband and I are in the military - I outrank him, hahaha! These are topics I typically don't write about, though every now and then, I will write about relationships - after all, we've been together for 28 years so we must be doing something right!

So what do I write about?

I have struggled with body image issues for most of my life. I am recovering from eating disorders and substance abuse - even though I'm over 2 years sober I have to remain diligent, especially with my new rank and position being so stressful. Prior to joining the military, I was a Personal Trainer and Holistic Nutritionist and I competed in Physique competitions - I traded one eating disorder for another. Now that I've been in the military for a while (8 years Oct 2020) I'm focusing on recovering from years of abusing my body and mind so I write a lot about body image, body positivity, lifestyle, and mental health as I find it therapeutic and hope I can help others.

I am now a plus-sized model so I have been starting to write a lot more about fashion as I believe clothing can really set a mood... or, better yet, an attitude! When I was younger, I wanted to be a fashion designer... obviously that never happened. However, lately that passion for fashion has been reignited! Quite likely, part of it has to do with the fact that my new office I can wear civilian clothing, not a uniform, so I can actually wear nice clothes and express myself through what I wear. Being plus size can be a little frustrating so I like to share where I shop and what I wear.

I am also vegan but don't worry - I'm not a "bible thumping" vegan. I really don't care if you eat meat if you're mindful about how commercial farming damages the environment and the animal cruelty involved in those institutions. I am also aware that not everyone can afford ethically sustainable meat and animal by-products - and that's okay! My husband isn't vegan and we can't afford it, either! However, his meat consumption has drastically reduced and I know a lot of other people are also trying to reduce meat consumption so that's what I write about. I try recipes and rate them as easy process and simple ingredients are a must! I feel that many people think poorly of a vegan lifestyle as it's seen as complicated and restrictive. Not to mention, a lot of the readily available vegan substitute "convenience foods" in the stores are, frankly, disgusting! I write about easy vegan recipes that are carnivore approved!

Health and wellness will always be a part of my life and I tend to write about all aspects of it; diet (not to be confused with diet culture), physical fitness, yoga, Reiki, meditation, mental health, body image, fashion... and maybe a little smut. ;)

If you've made it to the end, thank you! If you think my writings might interest you, I invite you to give me a follow!