I wanted to tackle a problem that my own family suffers from. I have two children with a weight problem, and one close to it. Their ages range from 8 years old to 16 years old. I have one child in the middle someplace that is skinny as a rail, go figure. I myself am included in the weight problem category. I seem to be growing in ways only a balloon should. So with this blog, I intend to learn as I go and share different recipes and tips I find working for my own family. My husband asked me what did I know about this subject and I answered "NOTHING! That's the problem". Maybe we can work together, and you all can share your tips and tricks with comments. We can learn as we go, a work in progress.

Raisins.netI know my children will not respond to the word diet, or noticeable limitations and restrictions. So I intend to make healthy changes that might not be so noticeable. I am going to start by removing all the junk foods and goodies around here. They will still be allowed a treat here and there, like any diet suggests. I already started by buying fruits and vegetables to use as snacks for those "between meals" hunger pangs. My 8 year old is responding very well to this. He loves apples and oranges. He even likes carrots and broccoli. I do have to limit this with him also, he doesn't know when to stop. If I let him, he will eat three oranges.

I have heard so many stories about soft drinks. They say cut them out and you will lose weight quickly. My children have a very limited amount of soft drinks in their routine already. They really enjoy water. I find if I buy the water bottles, they really like to drink it. That can be a bit costly, but I buy it by the case at Sam's Club, the Deer Park brand. It only costs about $4.88 a case of 36. I make them write their name on the bottle too. That way there is less waste.

I try not to say anything negative about their weight. I know it's a problem and so do they. They don't need to be insulted or made to feel bad about themselves. I just say things like, "Mommy is trying something new." or "Here, have some fruit instead." When the weather gets a little bit nicer, I will suggest going for a family walk or a bike ride. I can even take them bowling for some fun exercise. They wouldn't even have a clue it was good for them.


The importance of eating healthy is my main goal. I am going to record our weights and see what kind of difference this will make for all of us. I know it will be hard for me because I know what I am up to. The kids won't have a clue. My husband is a meat and potato kind of guy, carb city. I see I will be having to make two different meals everyday. He doesn't like change to much. It will be an accomplishment if I can get him to eat healthier too. This year, for Christmas, I hardly even baked. I wanted to make the transition easier next week. I myself love all the goodies that come with this time of year. I also hate to waste, so I tend to eat everything until it is gone.

I am going to begin by researching some diets and nutritional information. I will definitely stay away from the fads. I know this is going to be an awesome adventure with great results. Maybe I will even post some pictures of our progress. Have a wonderful and Healthy New Year!