Sabotage

on May 8, 2010
in All Posts

It’s been quite a busy day.  I think I need a nap!

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So far, we’ve spent the day sunbathing, swimming, eating, and strolling on the beach.  The Husband said he’s having a perfect birthday!

 

The pool was a little chilly when the Husband initially jumped in…

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So Maggie and I just laid on the towel for a while (but eventually we both got in, too.  Maggie loves the pool!).

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I have a dachshund tan line on my stomach!  🙂

 

For lunch, we went to our favorite beachside cafe, the Java Joint.  Java Joint is right next to the coast so we always walk on the beach after eating.  The Husband actually proposed to me on this very beach three years ago this June!

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At Java Joint, I got the veggie burger sans cheese with a side salad.  The Husband is suddenly turning against dairy (not eggs, though) and it’s inspiring me to cut out unnecessary dairy, too (my doctor recommended I reduce my intake).  It’s so much easier to make healthier choices in general when someone else is doing it, too.

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I love how the Java Joint adds fresh grilled mushrooms and onions to the top of their burgers.  So favorful and delicious!

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The Husband was a pretty serious meat-eater before we both went vegetarian, and I never thought he’d be the one heading in the vegan direction first.  It’s interesting to see the process unfold in front of me!  Guess I’ll need to learn how to make more vegan meals ASAP!

 

I’ve written about the influence we can have on others before:

 

 

Recently, I’ve gotten so many emails from people who struggle with bosses, friends, or significant others who disapprove or disagree with their healthy choices and ‘push’ junk food or make fun of exercise (and you know… this wisdom is usually dispensed by armchair quarterbacks – people who sit on the couch all day and admonish you for exercise.  They say, “Running ruins your knees!” as they munch on junk food).

 

I always feel that people who try to sabotage your healthy habits are just projecting their own feelings onto you.  When people do it to me (and it happens all the time, especially about being a vegetarian), I just smile sweetly, make a joke, and change the subject.  It’s not about me, it’s really about THEM.

 

Have you ever had someone push junk food on you or try to sabotage your healthy habits?  How did you handle it?

{ 99 comments }

 

  • Jaya May 8, 2010, 4:07 pm

    I think that is a very graceful and admirable approach to handling those situations! I don’t really have them anymore. I think most people are just trying to do the best they can in the manner that constitutes “healthy” and a good laugh is always just that!

  • Georgina May 8, 2010, 4:13 pm

    Hi Caitlin,
    You may find the compassionate cooks website useful, I’ve tried out a couple of the recipes and they have turned out really well. I found the site via iTunes, Colleens podcasts are really informative too particulary regarding the issues surrounding calcium and B12 for vegetarians.

  • Diana May 8, 2010, 4:14 pm

    Yeah, sometimes my family doesn’t make my life easier (buying food that isnt exactly the healthiest, etc), but they have actually started being much more careful with what they eat (never junk food, less processed stuff) and they encourage me to exercise more all the time, it’s actually great. So I guess it worked the other way around in this case! 🙂

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs May 8, 2010, 4:14 pm

    I used to get friends try and push junk food on me aaalll the time, and a lot of my not-immediate family do too. I just politely decline!
    Are you thinking about going vegan by the way? What are your thoughts on it?
    Have a good rest of the day 🙂

    • caitlin May 8, 2010, 4:24 pm

      I kind of consider myself a part time vegan now… I try to make some vegan choices but I will never go all the way (I doubt it).

  • Morgan @ Healthy Happy Place May 8, 2010, 4:14 pm

    that picture of Maggie is so adorable!!!!

  • Jessica @ The Process of Healing May 8, 2010, 4:15 pm

    That veggie burger looks seriously GREAT! I think caramelized onions and mushrooms push anything from good to great.

    Oh yes, my ex-boyfriend pushed junk/meat/etc. on me all the time and put me down for my healthy choices. Needless to say, he’s my EX! No one should have to put up with that.

  • Laine @ Beets, Butter & Moutaintops May 8, 2010, 4:16 pm

    Veganomicon is a great vegan cookbook. I’m not vegan but my brother is so I bought it so I could cook things for him when we have family get togethers. Their Leek and Bean Cassoulet is a great cold weather dish, and the chickpea cutlets with mushroom gravy are awesome.

    I thankfully don’t have people trying to sabotage – my family loves healthy food (and our dad’s homemade ice cream, which has spoiled me against any other kind.)

  • genesis May 8, 2010, 4:17 pm

    my coworkers make fun of me because they say i run so slow and one of my post race pictures was of me wearing ice bags on my shins (shin splints)…i just smile too and say, hey at least I can run and i ran a race,they cant say the same. and they always make fun of the green monsters i take to work, since then i never bring it to work

    • Steph May 8, 2010, 5:48 pm

      That is so sad about the green monsters! Those things are so delicious, they just look a little scary to people that may be unfamiliar. You could always try bringing it in a non see through cup?

    • Mastering Public Health May 9, 2010, 12:17 am

      As an old friend once said, “screw ’em!”

    • genesis May 9, 2010, 12:24 am

      I actually started drinking them in coffee cups so no one would see it, but then I hated using so many dishes, so I just drank them at home….

      but i have taken that approach – screw them – when it comes to the mocking.

  • Tonyne @ Unlikely Success Story May 8, 2010, 4:18 pm

    I love that picture of Maggie. I LOL’ed at work!

    People at work constantly try to sabotage me, I don’t think they mean to. I think they do it to make themselves feel better about the poor food choices they are making. Like, I pack a healthy lunch, they order Chinese and tell me “You really should allow yourself to eat what you want once in awhile” or “You can’t eat healthy all the time”. I wish they’d realize that I don’t care what they eat. I eat what I want to eat. Period. Ok, sorry, I guess I needed to vent. 🙂

  • Kelly May 8, 2010, 4:19 pm

    Ugh! I can’t stand people who try to sabotage. Luckily I don’t have to deal with it that often because I have IBS and people are relatively understanding that it will hurt my stomach to eat unhealthy (and sometimes healthy) foods.

    Is that an indoor pool with all glass windows? SO cool!

    • caitlin May 8, 2010, 4:25 pm

      it’s screened in 🙂 but its gorgeous.

  • giordin May 8, 2010, 4:22 pm

    Love that first picture of your doggy!

    I can’t say that I’ve had any delibrately sabotage my attempts at health. However, my boyfriend sometimes forgets that I’m on a mission when he’s trying to decide what to cook. He’s an aspiring chef so I have a really hard time saying “no” when he gets really excited about something he wants to make that’s either meaty or not super healthy. Fortunately, right now he’s joined me on a healthy food kick! Now if I can just get him aligned to my exercise schedule, I’ll be all set.

  • Kilee May 8, 2010, 4:24 pm

    What a fun day! I haven’t experienced people trying to “sabotage” my healthy lifestyle. If anything, I think that people are intrigued and just curious as to why/how I eat/exercise the way I do. If it works for them too, great, if not, no big deal. I really want everyone to do what works best for them and not to compare themselves to others.

  • Jenny May 8, 2010, 4:27 pm

    I have people who push three huge meals a day on me, I’m much more of a grazer! And I hate when people push food on you and say you “need to eat” tons more because you exercise! I eat PLENTY, believe me:) But if I’m not hungry, I’m not going to stuff myself! I think food choices are up to each individual, for sure!

  • Morgan May 8, 2010, 4:30 pm

    I actually have a really big problem with this. My husband comes from a family with strong obesity genes. Some, like him and his brother have been able to take really good care of themselves with diet and exercise. But my mother in law, sister in law and brother in law have all had weight loss surgery, which hasn’t been so successful because they didn’t really change their ways. They are always commenting how skinny I am, which actually makes me feel worse! They also try to give me more food, don’t understand my vegetarianism, and don’t understand why I CHOOSE to workout (they do it b/c they absolutely have to). I’ve just accepted it and moved on. Aside from that they are all wonderful people, I just hate having to defend my lifestyle!

    • Betsy May 8, 2010, 4:37 pm

      I have co-workers who do the same to me! Compliment me on my weight, which makes me so uncomfortable, and then tell me that I don’t need to work out because I’m already so skinny. They don’t believe me that I enjoy and look forward to my workouts, that’s it’s a hobby of mine. It’s always such a weird feeling having to defend your lifestyle choices.

      • caitlin May 8, 2010, 8:55 pm

        it is my personal pet peeve when people say to me “you are so skinny, you don’t need to work out.” #1, i don’t work out to be skinny, and #2, even if you are a healthy weight, you still need to work out!

        • Mastering Public Health May 9, 2010, 12:21 am

          I agree. Those situations are awkward. And Caitlin is right; everyone does need exercise. But I also can’t help thinking in those situations, “has this person considered that perhaps their exercise routine is part of the reason why the person is slim?” :/

  • Cassie @ A Very Busy Mind May 8, 2010, 4:32 pm

    OMG the “running ruins your knees” thing kills me. The person saying it is ALWAYS a couch potato.

    And you’re totally right – the comments about the way a person eats or works out are really just about the commenter’s own insecurities. We should think of them as expressions of admiration. 😉

  • Betsy May 8, 2010, 4:35 pm

    Luckily I’ve never had anyone try to sabotage me, just a snide comment here and there. I think many people confuse those of us who eat healthy to be on some kind of miserable diet. It’s hard for some to understand that there are people who enjoy eating veggies and fruits instead of chips and cookies as snacks. A lot of people have this misconception about healthy foods; that people who eat healthy are choking down their meals, but that just isn’t true! I love my healthy eats!

  • lisa May 8, 2010, 4:39 pm

    I think people do it to make sure that I’m part of the group, like if there are sweets out. I usually have some to appease others, even if I don’t want any. I always ponder whether I should have or not, and then realize a little piece of dessert is no big deal. I love my dessert usually, but don’t like it as much when I feel pressure to eat it.

  • Susan May 8, 2010, 4:41 pm

    That is by far the cutest photo of Maggie I’ve seen! And I’m cutting waaay back on my dairy too. So far I feel pretty good without it. Definitely not giving up eggs though. I still can’t make the connection between cow and goat milk and chicken eggs…

    I used to have people give me a hard time all the time about my “healthy ways.” But it doesn’t happen nearly a often now that I’ve eased up. That only ever really happened when I was overly strict with my diet. If anything I’ve noticed more people asking me for lifestyle advice 🙂

  • D May 8, 2010, 4:49 pm

    this happens to me all the time, but what you said is true, its almost always said by people who have less than stellar health habits. my (thin but sedentary) friends say i exercise too much, my (formerly disordered) housemate says i should eat more carbs, my (overweight…but working on it) boyfriend says im too strict, my (unhealthy, sedentary and dangerously health clueless) grandparents criticise my veganism…and so on. my boyfriend, who is often critical of my “strictness” even noted that, in his process of getting healthier, his own family have been less than supportive. he ran his first 10k with me recently (as i commented about) and his parents were extremely doubtful and unsupportive. i think that 99% of these comments come from a place of insecurity and self-doubt, so i try not to let them bother me. we all do it to an extent, and its something i try to work on in other areas. when i find myself thinking “ugh she studies WAY too much”, i know i need to look at my OWN study habits, because my negativity is just coming from within. its the same with weight/health – it can be hard, especially if its something you want to achieve yourself but havent managed it yet. i handle it by thinking about how id feel in the other persons shoes and just being super positive and excited about my own health choices and hoping that the genuine enthusiasm shines through. no one wants to feel preached to!

  • Anna @ Newlywed, Newly Veg May 8, 2010, 4:50 pm

    Some of my favorite cookbooks are vegan! We probably eat vegan about 60% of the time, without even trying really! I love The Vegan Table, by Colleen Patrick Goudreau. Veganomicon and Eat, Drink, Be Vegan are awesome too!

  • Evan Thomas May 8, 2010, 4:50 pm

    Glad to hear he’s having the perfect day!
    My mom’s definitely not the perfect eater, but thankfully she’s understanding of my healthy habits and doesn’t try to influence me anyway. And I’m proud to say the ways that she’s turning around, like loving lentils!

  • Heather May 8, 2010, 4:54 pm

    I am almost 37 weeks pregnant and still going to the gym and walking about 3 times a week. It’s amazing how many people are surprised and make comments about me working out, during pregnancy and especially this late into my pregnancy. Although, it might be a generation thing, because a lot of younger people I work with are supportive. I agree with you..it’s about them not me.

    • caitlin May 8, 2010, 8:57 pm

      i fear people will be all over me when i exercise when i’m pregnant! but labor is the hardest physical thing you’ll ever need to endure! so shouldnt it be commended to stay fit and healthy? go you for sticking with your healthy habits.

      • Heather May 8, 2010, 9:02 pm

        Sometimes I get a little paranoid that people are staring..but again, it’s about me and the baby being healthy, not some random people judging.

  • Julie @ Pickley Pear May 8, 2010, 4:56 pm

    Great post – lots to think about. I’ve never had anyone say anything negative about my eating – though I am not a vegetarian, I don’t eat a TON of meat anyway. I have had people (sort of) make fun of me for working out everyday (or nearly). I think they are jealous and wish they could have that discipline (or time…excuse).

    On the subject of cheese, I’ve really gotten away from eating cheese on burgers and sandwiches – you can’t taste it anyway!! Cheese is good with crackers and apples, IMO!!

  • Jenn (Jenn's Menu and Lifestyle Blog) May 8, 2010, 5:08 pm

    Those pool pictures are priceless. So cute. 🙂

    That veggie burger looks deeeeeelish. I could never give up dairy, I just love cheese too much. 😳

    I read something interesting once: When people try to influence you to go back to your old ways, be it a vice or other trait, it’s because they are trying to change you back to the “you” that they know you as, because your change is unfamiliar and awkward. They don’t always do it to be cruel or rude, it’s like a natural instinct. I’m sure it’s not like that in every situation, but it makes a lot of sense. 🙂

    Jenn

  • Katheryn May 8, 2010, 5:10 pm

    My family is always trying to push junk food on me and telling me I am too thin. By family I mean my parents and siblings. Hubby totally supports me though.

  • steph-exercise physiologist and artist! May 8, 2010, 5:15 pm

    Oh my goodness I wrote a commenter on Kath’s blog about this very subject!
    She was having issues with negative comments from co-workers b/c she wasn’t eating candy/cake/ice cream or all the other office “goodies”
    I have had soooo many people do that to me. Not so long ago someone who hadn’t seen me since I weighted 60lbs more asked in a really concerned way “are you okay?”

    Btw- that pic of Maggie is soooooo awesome! Too cute 🙂

  • Nicole, RD May 8, 2010, 5:15 pm

    I hate that people try and sabotage healthy living, but I, too, have experienced it! A lot!

  • Jess May 8, 2010, 5:29 pm

    See, I respect vegans and vegetarians for the food choices. Though I personally would not find myself in that boat, ever, simply because I really really do love meat, I think that people deserve to enjoy food however they want. Food is a loving thing, and if somebody wants to eat a certain way, more power to them!

    I try to push the sabotagers out of my life. I have enough crap to deal with as it is, I don’t need them. And if it’s somebody close to me who’s being negative (which is usually REALLY rare), I acknowledge their opinion, and then dismiss it because what they say doesn’t affect my actions. I’m still training for a triathlon whether they like it or not.

    As far as healthy habits go, well, I cook a lot and instead of wanting to sabotage me, most people want to invite themselves over for dinner, which I find brilliant because what do I love more than cooking for myself? Cooking for others!

    I think if you stick with things for a long time and continue with your habits, people will become inspired to change their own lives because they absorb your energy by being around you. My mom walks more because I walk more. My friend wants to start cycling because I don’t shut up about getting a road bike. I have a friend who wants to start training for a marathon because I’m going to do one in November. I think instead of absorbing the negative energy, if we keep radiating the positive, the negative will eventually transform into positive. Both attitudes are contagious.

  • Melissa @ For the Love of Health May 8, 2010, 5:40 pm

    my goodness- I love the puppy photo! haha classic
    I think when people insist on junk and make fun of exercise, it is literally just jealousy at its finest. People cannot handle when someone is taking great care. I feel like ignoring it is generally the best option or sometimes fight fire with fire by saying that you prefer to be healthy.

  • Mama Pea May 8, 2010, 5:43 pm

    Go hubby!!! (& happy birthday). Sounds like you guys need a good vegan cookbook stat 🙂 And how gorgeous are you both?!? Enjoy your weekend.

  • jen trinque @ recipes for creativity May 8, 2010, 5:52 pm

    I can’t say I’ve had people try to sabotage my healthy eating efforts, but I have been made fun of for my vegetarian (and now mostly vegan) way of eating ever since I stopped eating meat 17 years ago! I don’t even normally tell people in every day life I don’t eat meat unless it specifically comes up. Some people seem genuinely worried about my health, and I think some people think that I might be judging their eating habits, so make fun of me first.

  • Casey May 8, 2010, 5:55 pm

    Hi Caitlin!
    I’m a long time reader but this is my first time commenting.
    Your question is very timely for me. The fact that people can take jabs at you for doing something admirable that is your own choice like living healthy still astounds me. Between family members who always say ‘one piece of chicken wont kill you’. And friends who aren’t satisfied until I eat junk food with them.
    I know I’m happiest when I put good and healthy food into my body, exercise regularly, and treat it well. And I’m glad I have so many wonderful blogs like yours to read to know I’m not alone!

    • caitlin May 8, 2010, 8:57 pm

      thank you for reading my blog!!!

  • Ro May 8, 2010, 5:57 pm

    Just curious– what is your husband’s reason for reducing dairy (if you don’t mind sharing)? I’m sort of thinking about transitioning from dairy-heaving vegetarianism to a more vegan diet, and I’d be very interested!

  • eatingRD May 8, 2010, 6:03 pm

    I’m actually so blessed that Chris also enjoys being active and loves everything I cook! It’s so nice to have someone so close that shares your same ideas and love for overall health. I have seen many instances with others when that is not the case, and it’s very hard on the other who is trying very hard to lose weight/be healthier. Very tough.
    Maggie is so freakin’ cute and funny! lol made me smile 🙂 I got in 77 miles today, eee!

  • Maura May 8, 2010, 6:14 pm

    Just this afternoon while watchig a game at the bar, after I told someone that I was training for a marathon, they laughed at me and said, “Do you know how bad that is for your body? It destroys it.” My response: “So, kinda like that plate of fried food in front of you?”

    • caitlin May 8, 2010, 8:57 pm

      hahahah BURN.

  • Diana(mymarblerye) May 8, 2010, 6:17 pm

    I’m currently out of town and facing this problem! I ate a veggie burger at a burger house and blackened fish at a catfish fry restaurant. I ate some fries at bothplaces and I got sh!t from everyone but I don’t even have a gym access here!

  • kate May 8, 2010, 6:19 pm

    First of all, that photo of Maggie is amazing! I do get a few comments from people about my eating habits but I approach it the same way you do. I tend to get more snide comments when I eat things that may not fit into the healthy category, though. Like oh youre going to eat ice cream? And Im like hell yes Im going to eat ice cream!

  • runnerforever May 8, 2010, 6:27 pm

    First off, that grilled banana sandwich…ummm drool!
    I am so glad your husband is enjoy his B-day, you sure do treat him right 🙂
    I get all kinds of comments trying to suggest that I should eat differently and for the most part I just try to shake them off because a lot of time it is out of jealousy.

  • Carole May 8, 2010, 6:29 pm

    I love love love the dress you are wearing in that beach pic! I know your sis-in-law gave it to you for your birthday, but do you have any idea where I could find it?

    • caitlin May 8, 2010, 6:38 pm

      TJ Maxx 🙂 Thanks!

  • erin May 8, 2010, 6:31 pm

    my boss usually is the one who’s bringingg in sweets. and she’s the one who also buys all the little snacks for us to have at work. I’d much rather not have that! I almost always bring my own stash of food in. there’s another co worker that makes comments about my eating habits. especially when I RARELY eat out, every now and then i’ll pick up something from the cafe and i get all sorts of comments. It’s not that i consider eating out bad, I just actually don’t like eating out all that much. I like to think of it as a special thing!

    The friends that I have — they are pretty nice about it. My family tries to support me, like if i prefer to eat fish instead of meat, my mom will be sure to have it ready for me. i think they’re finally understanding where i’m coming from! I get ecstatic whenever someone I know, a friend or family starts becoming more active, and i try to support them as much as I can because I want them to enjoy being healthy!

    a coworker last week, wants me to help her with her eating habits… and I just say do one thing at a time. I hope she’ll eventually get the hang of it….my favorite piece of advice, don’t treat each meal as it’s your last ever, I think that’s a lot of people’s problems!

  • Cynthia (It All Changes) May 8, 2010, 6:34 pm

    Since I recently made the decision to go vegetarian for my health people have made fun and I just laugh it off. I have other digestive issues for things I can’t eat so some people think I’m joking. But I am doing it for me and I feel healthier.

    People always tell me that my facebook status about going to the gym pushes them to go and it make me feel good.

  • Michelle @ Give Me the Almond Butter May 8, 2010, 6:38 pm

    People give me crap for running because it will hurt your joints. They don’t believe that bones becomes stronger from the running. And recently my roommate said that whether or not you put sunscreen on, you’ll get skin cancer, so I shouldn’t waste my time. I was seriously appalled.

  • Sarah for Real May 8, 2010, 6:52 pm

    LOL!!! I freakin’ love that first picture. I cracked UP laughing.

  • kalin (eating machine) May 8, 2010, 7:00 pm

    ahh your husband and my fiance have the same birthday! happy birthday to your man! 🙂

  • Nicole May 8, 2010, 7:01 pm

    All the time. Not so much for exercising or running too much, but mostly for what I eat. I’ve been an athlete my whole life so most of the people I hang out with play sports too, but my eating habits seem to annoy the crap out of them. Co-workers too. I hate going out to eat with people that don’t really know me because I end up having to explain myself. And those who do know me–they expect me to order something “weird” or “super healthy” but they still make comments about it.
    I usually do one of two things: I mention that my boyfriend has Ulcerative Colitis and that we’ve learned how to eat differently for health reasons. And this might sound weird but I have a picture of myself at my heaviest that I keep on hand to remind me of what I looked like when I didn’t care about health. I remember how I felt: I was sluggish, I couldn’t run nearly as far/fast as I can now, and I never felt comfortable in anything I wore, my knees hurt, etc. I was simply overweight. The picture helps remind me of how much better I feel, and it gives others a real understanding of why I live the way I live today.

  • Kelsey May 8, 2010, 7:02 pm

    Hey Caitlin, I just wanted to say how much I enjoy reading your site. I love waking up and checking for your morning update because seeing you make such healthy and positive choices gives me the inspiration to do the same myself. Not only have I been eating much healthier since reading your site but I also am feeling so much happier about life. It is amazing how a few positive changes really can change your whole perspective!

    • caitlin May 8, 2010, 7:22 pm

      thank you so much and way to go with the healthier choices!

  • Jael May 8, 2010, 7:03 pm

    That picture of Maggie is hilarious!!!!!! I looove your dogs, ans mine, and everyones LOL

    I don’t exercise at all…and i should, but i encourage everyone who does. One of my BFF runs periodically and i’m her biggest cheerlearder!!!

    I love healthy living, although i don’t live one just because i’m lazy

    Happy Birthday to your DH

  • Kellie May 8, 2010, 7:04 pm

    People make comments on my weight or me being too thin. Thanks goodness I have a fantastic husband who stands up for me. It bothers me that people can be so critical. I take care of myself, eat right (and lots of good food) and excercise. I don’t see why people feel they have the right to judge you. If I don’t want to eat a french fry, then so be it. I have no problem with what others eat so I am not sure why they should care what I eat.

  • Merry May 8, 2010, 7:07 pm

    Holy cow that’s an awesome picture of your pup! The amazing teeth aside I love her paws! They look like turtle feet!

    • caitlin May 8, 2010, 7:23 pm

      i;m telling margaret you said that about her feet!! LOL

  • Sarah (Running to Slow Things Down) May 8, 2010, 7:23 pm

    I couldn’t stop laughing at the picture of your daschund…too cute! 😀

  • Wei-Wei May 8, 2010, 7:32 pm

    That burger looks amazing! I love grilled mushrooms and onions. (I would have it sans ketchup, though!)

    People (especially my family) nudge me for being too thin, and when I visited my sister during my ED, she practically force-fed me food just to get me to eat. Looking back, it probably wasn’t the best way to “cure” me from my ED, but I guess it’s just hard to understand how recovery from ED works; just because I’m eating and gaining the weight back, doesn’t mean I’m healthy in my mind.

    Maybe it was part of the healing process, but I really don’t appreciate other people telling me what I should or shouldn’t eat. Personally, I think it’s a little rude.

    Have a great night! Looks like it’s been an awesome day… 😀

    Wei-Wei

  • Sarah May 8, 2010, 7:34 pm

    I had someone (who is probably medically considered obese) make fun of my salad at lunch one time … while she ate McDonalds. I couldn’t believe it!

  • megan May 8, 2010, 7:35 pm

    Thanks for posting about this…I have this problem all the time, mostly at work and with family. They are always making comments, but you are right, it tends to be the people that are less active, or not living a very healthy lifestyle. It was helpful to read all the other comments, along with your thoughts on the topic!!

  • Angharad May 8, 2010, 7:35 pm

    Ok I just need to back-track for a second because I just read your fun facts about the husband: I AM FROM READING!! Did he grow up there too?! Because we are the same age and that is too weird for words. I was born in London but lived in Reading from the age of 3 to 18. Crazy.

    Ok, sorry for the outburst! Looks like you’re having an amazing day!

    • caitlin May 8, 2010, 7:41 pm

      that is exciting! yes he grew up there. how fun 🙂

  • Raya @ Raya Runs May 8, 2010, 7:36 pm

    It used to happen to me all the time at work. They would “joke” and tell me I eat like a rabbit (this is simply because I eat vegetables) and if we’re having cake or donuts or something they would wave it in front of my face and either try reeeally hard to get me to eat it or tell me “oh so you’re too good for this donut?” And they said it all in jest but it gets old. Now that I’ve been there a while people are used to my eating habits, I just had to stand by them! (Them being my eating habits and not my co-workers haha)

  • Lisa @ Early Morning Run May 8, 2010, 7:50 pm

    Sounds like a wonderful day!
    I’ve had this happen to me many times as well. Thankfully I have several friends and a husband who enjoy healthy lifestyles, but it’s difficult when people push you or encourage you to indulge when you really don’t want to. The hardest part is when it involves good chocolate, because I love it so much. I just try to concentrate on why I’m eating healthfully and being active, what my ultimate goal is and let them do what they want.

  • Babs May 8, 2010, 7:52 pm

    Yippy 🙂 Congrats on all the effort to cut out dairy!!!

  • Nicole of Raspberry Stethoscope May 8, 2010, 8:17 pm

    whoa, your husband walks on water

  • Andrea @ Run, Eat, Date, Sleep May 8, 2010, 8:20 pm

    I’ve had people tell me to stop posting the Earthlings and Food Inc. videos on my Facebook because they don’t want to see what happens to the animals before they eat them. I’ve had a few people ask me “why do you even want to run a marathon? Why can’t you just run 5Ks and be happy with that? You’re going to get injured.” Well, first, I can get injured walking a mile and twisting my ankle on the sidewalk or something.

    I find people put down my accomplishments and goals only because they’re too lazy to try it themselves.

  • Lisa of Lisa at Home May 8, 2010, 8:37 pm

    I love the picture of your dog! So cute!
    And you really have a good approach to handling those situations. I have the most trouble with people when I say “I’m trying to keep a mostly plant based diet’ or something like that… People will just say “why” or “you’ll never keep that up”. It’s definitely hurtful.

  • Gabriela @ Fro-Yo Lover May 8, 2010, 8:48 pm

    Such lovely pics, Caitlin!
    I think it´s so sweet of you to give us all such amazing advices. Thank you, love!
    Wish you a great weekend 🙂
    Brazilian XOXO´s,
    Gabriela

  • Gracie @ Girl Meets Health May 8, 2010, 9:01 pm

    “It’s not about me, it’s really about THEM.” <— So, so true. But you know what? I still fall victim to people who try to sabotage. I think what bothers me the most is that so many people assume/make comments insinuating that I'm on a constant "diet." I can't STAND that! I feel so lame for admitting that I will sometimes actually eat something "unhealthy" just to avoid comments from others. I'm really trying to stop doing that, though, because I hate being a people-pleaser, you know? I eat/live the way I choose to please *myself* and no one else.

  • John May 8, 2010, 10:57 pm

    I had a friend who would always offer me something I was avoiding even though he knew about it. His comeback when I said no was “come on one won’t hurt”. I told him off each time! No more being nice after trying a couple times with him.

    So basically it’s the same with everyone now. Try and politely tell them no and if need be why. Tell them off if that doesn’t work. That usually will and if it doesn’t it still makes me feel better as I got to vent 🙂

  • Amber K @ sparkpeople May 8, 2010, 11:37 pm

    I actually have had to deal with a lot of comments about 1. what I eat 2. what I don’t eat and 3. my weight in general.

    Even after losing over 90 pounds (and now maintaining that loss for almost two years!) I had a relative who gave me a hug, pinched my side and said “I thought you went to the gym?”

    I try and just ignore any snide comments, the food pushers, and anything else that comes my way. I will answer any genuine questions and try not to give in to the cravings that strike when people are getting down on me.

  • Kim May 9, 2010, 12:01 am

    That’s an awesome picture of the dog!

    I have a hard time with family (both mine and my future in-laws) understanding my vegetarian lifestyle. It’s hard because they’re so used to grilling out regular burgers, making a turkey at holidays, bacon for Sunday breakfast… that they groan when we ask them to modify the menu for us. We’ve even thought about bringing our own – veggie burgers, etc.

    At work, people tease me because I eat the same mid-morning snack every day: plain yogurt, strawberries or banana, flax, and oats – it’s filling and gets me thru to lunch! But the teasing goes both ways – I’m always giving my coworkers a hard time about their single-serving yogurt containers (“you do know that you can buy that in a big container & it’s cheaper…”).

  • Nicci May 9, 2010, 1:52 am

    I’ve got coworkers who like to eat out constantly,everyday for work and buy candy bars and bring doughnuts every Friday. I get laughed at for bringing green monsters and eating hummus. Now,everyone is dieting and now they are asking the ”health nut” a.k.a me for advice on fitness, eating and calories.lol

  • Alice May 9, 2010, 1:58 am

    All the time – pretty much 90% of my friends are overweight smokers with crappy nutrition and they don’t exercise (but err, they’re really funny?? 🙂 )

    One friend in particular always sort of sneers when I mention something exercise-related that I do…I once got a verbal beating for talking about protein powder. Right…

    It sucks!

  • Kim@EatandBe May 9, 2010, 4:52 am

    This may sound silly, but sometimes after a tennis match my partners want to go up to the lounge for a “drink” which is all good, except they always order beer or wine and if I order an herbal tea or something “non-alcoholic” they look at me like I am a crazy person! I don’t know, sometimes I just want a tea, ya know? Who cares what your friend is having, it’s the company that matters, right?

  • Lynne May 9, 2010, 6:11 am

    Thanks for the wonderful picture of Maggie! It made me smile! 🙂

  • Helen May 9, 2010, 9:05 am

    That is such a good response to have to people. I can’t believe the number of people who think they know better and don’t actually care about their health. As I’m quite slim all of my work colleagues think that I can eat crap and get away with it so when I say I’m going to the gym / going for a run / trying to eat healthily they scoff and say oh you don’t need to worry about getting fat. Thats NOT why I’m doing it, I’m doing it to lead a healthy lifestyle. I could go on for hours about this topic (but I won’t) Enjoy the rest of your husband’s LONG birthday!

  • Miriam May 9, 2010, 11:03 am

    Love the pic! You guys are looking georgous by the beach!!! 🙂

  • Ivy May 9, 2010, 1:30 pm

    What is the reason behind the Husband wanting to go vegan? I’m just asking because I might learn something about dairy I didn’t know 🙂

    • caitlin May 10, 2010, 3:18 pm

      he’s going vegan for ethical reasons… most of the dairy industry is just as bad as factory farming.

  • Susan @ Journey for Health May 9, 2010, 2:43 pm

    Yeah, I totally agree with you on the sabotage by the unhealthy people around us. I mean, I’m not at my healthiest by any means, but I am trying really hard to lose weight and I feel like people don’t understand that. They assume that because I’m overweight that I am a lazy person who munches on fried foods and junk food 24/7. Yes, I have been sedentary in the past, but it was from several sit-down jobs. I finally realized that I was being unhealthy with my food choices and started a change.

    What I find most interesting (and kinda sad) is that when I go through the grocery line and I put tons of veggies, fruits, healthy frozen lunches (for my boyfriend, mostly), and other things like beans, etc, I get weird looks. They look at the daikon, chinese cabbage, and sweet potatoes like they’re a new discovery from Mars. Then they ask what it is and they’re surprised. I get all these weird looks and comments like, “That’s a lot of veggies,” but I find it saddest when I never hear “That’s a lot of junk food” to the guy ahead of me with a cart full of crap. It’s just a little observation I’ve noticed as I have chosen healthier things…I laugh it off and feel better that I will be eating something that I’m proud to eat, not something that will make me feel bloated and mad at myself for eating.

    Anyway, thanks for a great post. And I totally LOVE the opening pic of Maggie.

  • Lisa May 9, 2010, 4:53 pm

    I had an ex who tried to sabotage my weight loss journey many times. Sometimes sneaky ways, sometimes blatant. What did I do? I dumped him. He was a jerk anyways 🙂

  • Charlsie May 9, 2010, 8:32 pm

    Great blog!! I’m going to try to get in to cycling so I will be stalking your site for some info on that! About those unhealthy food pushers/ judgers. I am vegetarian and one person on my staff is vegan, there are 8 of us and the other 6 are diehard meat eaters and would probably freak out if someone suggested they not eat meat. Its even harder because I’ll say ” I can’t eat that” and my boss will say, “Thats false, you can, you just choose not to.” This is true because I don’t have an allergy I just choose not to eat meat but its frustrating nonetheless!

  • Nancy May 9, 2010, 8:51 pm

    Hi Caitlin–
    Don’t know how I happened on your blog, but now I read it religiously and try your recipes often–delish, esp. the baked sweet potato/baked beans combo. Anyhoo, I am 55 years old and my dream o’dreams has been to run a marathon (I’ve run and walked 20 minis over the years. For my last mini I neglected to train, and really wrecked my knees. My spouse, who is great, says I shouldn’t attempt a marathon or even a mini comeback becaue “your best days are behind you,” but I saw that you came back and did a whole marathon with bad knees. True, you’re mucho younger than me, but tell me any words of advice you might have, if and when you have a minute. I hate to think I’m really over the hill…

  • Stephanie May 9, 2010, 10:54 pm

    That happens to me a lot! It’s rough, especially with my family. My whole family is very technology savy and like to sit and relax (read, do things on the computer, etc) which is completely fine with me! I don’t know where I came from though because I’ve always been really athletic. I like to exercise a lot and every time they ask me where I’m going and then they say “Your going running AGAIN?!” I also get junk food pushed on me a lot too. I try to stay as positive as I can and remember that it’s my personal life choice and if other people don’t agree with it thats fine! It’s all worth it =)

  • Jordan @ Live a Little Better May 9, 2010, 11:07 pm

    Aaagggh..the sabotage. I have a friend that did tell me, “Running is SO bad for you. Don’t do it.” She didn’t have any alternatives for me though.

  • Laurie May 10, 2010, 1:57 pm

    Love the picture of Maggie! Happy belated birthday to your wonderful hubby!

  • Erin May 11, 2010, 1:35 pm

    That’s the funniest picture of Maggie!!! So cute 🙂

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