Monday, July 30, 2012

Rock n Roll Hippie Chick

Boho Hippie Trippy Clothing and More

Hippie Chic - Photo prshots.com archives


Lately, I've been having a lot of fun writing about boho hippie clothing, music, and history.  If you like that sort of thing, and why wouldn't you, here are some links to my recent articles about boho clothing:

Boho Chic Hippie Clothes: Plus Size Maxi Dresses

Hippie Clothes: How Did Hippie Fashion Start?


I also love to write about music, and I like to have links that go to youtube videos.  That way, I can listen to my fave songs whenever I get bored or stressed.  Here is my latest music article:

Hippie Wedding Songs: Cool Music for Boho Baby Boomers

Do you miss the 60s yet?

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Graves Disease and Prednisone Moon Face

If you want to see what happens when you have Graves' Disease and take the steroid, prednisone, you've come to the right place.

Pink Hat Photo: How I looked just before I went hyperthyroid (with Graves' Disease).

Black & White Hat Photo: How I looked when I lost 20 pounds in one month from being hyperthyroid (due to Graves Disease), complete with bulging eyes and other fun stuff.

Blue Hat Photo: How I looked immediately after starting prednisone. 
This flattering look is called "prednisone moon face."
I Gained Over 30 Pounds

My course of prednisone caused a weight gain of 30 or 40 pounds in one month.  My facial swelling went back down after I stopped the meds...well...my face went closer to what I would consider normal, however my skin was immediately more saggy due to the deflation of my balloon face.  I was told by many people that I would lose the weight as soon as I stopped the drugs, but I was part of a small percentage of people whose body did not react according to the script.

Prednisone: The Evil Wonderful Drug

For the last few years, my weight has gone down and back up (with almost all of the extra fat going to my tummy).  It's as though the prednisone changed every cell in my body.  And, I'm close to giving up on ever losing the weight, but...I've decided to stash my skinny clothes in a box...just in case I luck out and my doctors find an alternate med so I can ditch one of my other horrid (but necessary) drugs that keeps me looking nice and plump.

In reality, I don't regret taking prednisone.  My alternative was to risk losing my vision.

Why Am I Talking About This?

The main reason I'm posting my story is that I want all of you apple-shaped women to understand where I'm coming from when I tell you my thoughts about styles and brands of clothing that work well with a tummy.  I am not just rewording shopworn advice from skinny, healthy fashion "experts."  I'm telling you what has worked for me.
 
Read From Frump to Fab in Five Minutes: Fashion for Apple Shapes