03/27/2026
Hi Buddies!
Let’s Lighten Things Up
In many parts of the country, heavy winter coats are starting to come off. And whether we feel completely ready or not… here we are. Let’s feel good about ourselves.
This time of year—when we start reaching for lighter clothes—can feel a little stressful. I’ve discovered that many online stores have terrific return policies. I can try items on at home, at my leisure, no stress. I might try something on the day it arrives and then give it another try the next morning. I love that. No pressure. It’s all about how I feel in it. If it’s not working, back it goes.
Bottom line—clothes that are too tight or too loose aren’t what we’re going for. A few pieces that fit you right now, that feel comfortable and a little more like you, can make a bigger difference than we think.
And here’s something interesting. People who feel a little better about themselves tend to stay more consistent, recover faster from slip-ups, and stick with things longer. Not because they’re more disciplined, but because they’re not constantly being hard on themselves.
Being a little kinder to yourself—not beating yourself up, not going into that “I blew it, so forget it” mindset—actually helps you keep going. There’s even research showing that this kind of self-compassion supports better long-term progress.
We’ll be spending more time outside, with longer days and more light. Let’s bring a little of that light within. We are all works in progress, but that doesn’t mean we can’t feel a little better along the way.
6 Tips for Hosting a Spring Brunch
Keep the menu simple. No need to overdo it.
Make what you can ahead of time—breakfast casseroles and baked items freeze well and make things easier.
Set the table the day before and add some fresh flowers.
Highlight fresh seasonal produce with a simple, colorful spread.
Don’t be afraid to accept (or ask for) help.
Most important—have fun.
If you’re interested in the research:
Self Compassion in Weight Management Matters
https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../abs/pii/S0022399921002622
Can Practicing Self-Compassion Help People Achieve Weight Loss Goals
https://drexel.edu/.../Can-Practicing-Self-Compassion...
ICYMI…..
FITforHealth – posting lots of valuable info (check out his profile)
sjwestie – shared progress pic..looking great!!
Liz4 – doing an amazing job!
Runningupth@thill – asked to count calories or not?
tbanonte1 – celebrating that Spring is finally here!
Leaderboard
#1 Liz4
#2 ludita
#3 mtn_kitten
Thanks for being an important part of our community.
Congratulations to JennsJourney on your success and best wishes as you continue toward your goals.
Jenn said:
“Obesity runs heavily in my family, and my weight has always gone up and down over the years. Last year I didn’t realize how out of control things had gotten until I stepped on the scale in late December and saw around 230-ish pounds, and by January I was 238 pounds. The heaviest I've been in 15 years. That was definitely a wake-up call for me.
Over the last three months I’ve really been focusing on eating healthier and being more active. I decided not to post publicly about my weight loss at first because in the past I’ve struggled with consistency and didn’t know if this time would be different. I wanted to make sure I was truly committed before sharing it.
I’ve been working hard on staying consistent, holding myself accountable, and watching my carbs, kind of like a dirty keto approach. I’m proud to say I’m now 25 pounds down and currently sitting at 212 pounds. My goal is to reach 185 pounds by the summer, and I’m determined to keep pushing forward.”
Have a great week.
Stay close. Post often.
Your buddy,
Tea
