Seven.

October of 2007 I wore this lovely little dress to a friend’s wedding:

I was feeling all nice and healthy and fit. But, then Winter came and I ate a lot because it snows here and when it’s snowing you’re supposed to stay warm by eating. The only problem with that is that Winter moved on and left Spring in it’s place. And, then we packed up and jumped on a jet plane to Mexico and on our “dressy” night on the cruise I was excited to pull my stylish, little dress out from it’s 6-month hiatus. But, then the excitement was quickly vanquished.

I honestly thought I wasn’t going to make it to dinner. You see the dress didn’t fit. At all. I had to do the whole hands in the air, suck-in as much as possible, don’t breathe and say a quick prayer as Corey broke a sweat trying to get it zipped. But, alas it zipped and I was able to spend a rather miserable few hours trying to eat while I sat in my dress that was literally busting at the seams. Right after dinner I ran to our room to take it off (2 hours of not breathing is a loooong time!) and there was a giant impression down the left side of my body from the zipper.

I hate to admit it, but this year is no different. Add a few hearty months of fertility meds, a winter that’s left me with a diet made up of sugar and a gym that I don’t mind visiting if it’s only for 15-30 minutes and I’m left with a little extra love that I’m not lovin’. Is it a big deal? No. Is it a pain when your clothes are too tight? Heck yes! And, that’s why, my friends, I am on a mission to lose seven pounds before vacation. (Seven pounds because that’s how much I’ve gained this winter. Eeek!) Since Mexico happily won us over last year we thought it’d only make sense to revisit it again this year. Our vacay is in six short weeks and I need some major help, Blog Friends!

You see, I have a very special relationship with these guys:

But, I know that I must say goodbye to their negative influence and start spending more time with my make-your-mama-proud friends:

I’m all about a plate of colorful fruit, don’t get me wrong, but my Girl Scouts…well they’re just so darn friendly. Look at how happy they are! So, here’s where I need you. I need some new recipe ideas that will help me get through this very difficult break-up. Good meals I can look forward to making in the evenings. Meals that are hearty, but healthy. You know what I mean? And, I know that all my Blog Friends are where the money’s at! Will you guys help my mid-section out by sending me a recipe you know is healthy and delicious? Send it to jessica@503photography and then this weekend I’ll compile them in an updated post for everyone else to enjoy, too! Oh, and don’t forget to give me your name - if I don’t already know it - so that I can give credit where credit’s due!

Thank you so much!

xoxo,

jc