Hello members new and old!

Your mods have been working on expanding and updating the community guidelines for FatVancouver, and they are posted on the userinfo page for all to see. Please take a moment to read them over. We expect all members to understand these guidelines, and we expect all applicants to have read them. When you apply to be a member here, you have agreed to abide by these guidelines. If you have questions, feel free to ask them in the comments of this post, or to DM one of the mods: undeconstructed, coco73, or zaftigvegan.

Thanks everyone!

So just two months ago my clinic doctor prescribed two inhalers for my asthma. After using them as prescribed, I realized my asthma not only didn't improve, but I started to have full-blown asthma attacks and coughing fits the likes of which I've never experienced before. After speaking with a lot of friends who are asthmatics, I realized the inhalers aren't doing me much good and it's time for me to look for alternative methods to keep my breathing under control; that's when I found out about yoga breathing techniques.
Does anyone here attend yoga classes/know of yoga classes that are body positive, fat-friendly and just awesome? Ones that teach these techniques? Reasonably priced, even better. Anything on commercial drive would be a plus.

Also while we're on the subject. Any naturopathic doctors you know of that are fat-friendly?

so i enjoyed seeing 2012 the other day (hollywood cheez aside), but did NOT enjoy what felt like even smaller seats than the last time i was there--and they were already not ok. But now they've installed drink holders on EVERY armrest (who needs one in every arm rest??). Fortunately i found one of the few coveted seats that was missing one holder. But damn VanEast Theatre, WTF???

I scored some great pieces and I managed to pass on some items that I'd been hanging on to for far too long. It was wonderful, as usual, to see familliar faces and to make the acquaintances of new people. I'd like to thank freakykitten for arranging and organizing last night's Fat Van clothing swap; it takes no small amount of effort to set these things up, and I, for one, really appreciate the trouble you went to in order to secure a large enough, accessible space and to provide us all with delicious snacks and beverages!

I would just like to mention, because I'm not sure if it's totally clear, that Fat Van clothing swaps should be considered gender neutral. Don't get me wrong, as a girly-girl I love how much choice I have at these things but it would be great if for the next one we mention it to ALL the local fat people we know regardless of how they identify. I really feel we could go a long way towards making this a much broader, even more vibrant community of fatties but it starts with each of us taking on some of the responsibility to communicate about it to all the fat folks we know and love about our events!

Just thought I'd mention that I went to the Rickshaw Theatre (on East Hastings at Main) for a show last night and was pleased to discover that there was a comfortable seating option (on the ground floor, at least) for a fatty like me. Most old theatre's seats are a real squeeze for me to get my ass into so I'm always nervous showing up at a new venue. The Rickshaw's entire back row is one long comfy cushioned bench, with an area right next to it at the end (near the aisle) where two wheelchairs or other chairs could fit. And even though we were right at the back, the floor is sloped (with small stairs down the aisles) so the view to the stage was still great.

Unfortunately, I didn't feel the need to use the washroom while I was there so I can't speak to the accessibility of those. Kicking myself now...that was a rooky mistake. Sorry, puddins. :(

I just learned about this through Fatshionista, so what I'm wondering is if anyone knows if anywhere in town carries it or do I have to order it online?

EDIT: Wanted to let everyone know I found some at Safeway!

Hi All,

On the weekend I bought a magazine for the fun of it. On the cover it looked good - called "Clean Eating", it talked about whole foods, less processed foods, eating cheaply, ways to slash your grocery budget, all things that I enjoy.


Unfortunately, it turns out that "Clean Eating" is just another trend diet - at least to this magazine. There were articles on cravings and how to not give in to them ("just change your routine! eat bananas instead!" etc), a "success story" about someone who'd lost weight, ways to make "low fat ice cream" and reminders that a cookie is still a cookie so you'll still gain weight if you eat too many of them even if they're made with whole grains, pseudo-science about good waist sizes and so much more.


After reading it, even skimming or avoiding altogether the articles and tidbits on weight loss, I felt dirty and a lot of body shame. AND I felt stupid for putting money into the pockets of the people who are putting that magazine out. I do NOT want to support the diet industry in any form.


So the only thing I could think to do was to tell you all about it. Don't make the same mistake I did! Stay away from "Clean Eating" magazine.

Hi all,
Clearing out my closet and thought I'd post this list:
http://www.list4all.com/clothes-stuff/
Maybe more to come!!

Hi Vancouver fats!

It's my birthday on Tuesday so I'm trying to decide what I want to do and I was thinking maybe next weekend I'd make my best friends take me to Playland 'cause I haven't been in years. I've grown quite a bit since last I was there and I was wondering if you could advise how fat friendly the rides are? I'm about 5'8", 270, size 18/20.

Thanks!

not sure if there are any other cbc radio nerds on here, but this morning i was listening while i did some work and was i ever surprised and excited to hear kate harding of shapely prose being interviewed. luckily you can catch the podcast on the cbc radio one q site:

http://www.cbc.ca/q/pastepisodes.html

mandy moore takes up about the first third of the show, then kate harding comes on. i doubt much of what any of us hears will be news, but it's great to have kate getting all this out into the mainstream media. go kate! and go cbc for actually having the chops to address the issue of fat positivity and fat rights.

are there any bike shops around town that deal with bikes for heavier people? either factory made or custom built?

i really want to start bicycling now that both my kids are mobile on two-wheelers and we can get around town together that way, but a regular bike is not only uncomfortable for me seat-wise, i'm worried about the frame/wheel weight limits.

i've found http://www.supersizedcycles.com/ (custom-built bikes for people who weigh over 200 lbs) already, and would consider ordering something from them as a last resort (though the thought of the exchange rate, plus shipping + duty are extremely daunting). i'd much rather find something to commission/buy locally.

thanks in advance.

A friend of mine is directing a production of 'Fat Pig' at Performance Works on Granville Island this month.



FAT PIG
By Neil LaBute

Cow. Slob. Pig. How many insults can you hear before you have to stand up and defend the woman you love? Tom faces just that question when he falls for Helen, a bright, funny, sexy young woman who happens to be plus sized-and then some. Forced to explain his new relationship to his shallow (although shockingly funny) friends. Neil LaBute's sharply drawn play not only critiques our slavish adherence to Hollywood ideals of beauty but boldly questions our own ability to change what we dislike about ourselves. This is a smart, telling drama with a splash of nervous hilarity.

“It’s theatre without novocaine…will make you squirm in your seat!”- The Journal News

Jesse nominated actor Michael Scholar Jr. takes the Director’s reigns for “Fat Pig”, with actors Aaron Craven (Carter), Lawrence Haegert (Tom), Kathryn Kirkpatrick (Helen) and Jennifer Mawhinney (Jeannie) giving compelling performances. “Fat Pig”also features designs by Itai Erdel (Lighting) and Naomi Sider (Costume and set Design) with poster design by Dion Johnstone and website design by Richard Johnson.

PERFORMANCE WORKS- 1218 Cartwright St. Granville Island- May 20 to May 30, 2009
PREVIEW: May 20TH @ 8PM all tickets half price
OPENING NIGHT: May 21
SPECIAL 2 For 1: Tuesday, May 26th
MATINEES: Saturday May 23rd and 30th at 2:00pm
Tuesday-Saturday: 8:00pm
Prices:
Tuesday-Thursday & Matinee: $21.50 (s/c included)
Friday-Saturday: $25.50 (s/c included)

ORDER BY PHONE: 604-684-2787
Additional $2.50 per ticket for phone orders
Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Saturday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Sunday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
MEDIA CONTACT: Geri Guemos 604-339-9759 gerigemos@gmail.com

I've been really excited to see this performed, ever since I read the play a few years ago, but never actually believed anyone would put it on here. I hope some of us will go! (Maybe with me?)

"Thank you for emailing us with your concern.

In regards to your inquiry Faith 21 will not be available in Canada. Your comments and suggestions to have this product available in Canada have been forwarded to the appropriate department for their information and review.

We apologize for any inconveniences.

If you have any further questions/concerns, please call our customer service line at (888) 494-3837 or by emailing us at online@forever21.com. Our representatives are available to take your calls and emails Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM Pacific Standard Time.

Sincerely,
Yadhira Sanchez
Forever 21 - Customer Service"


So Forever 21 is not carrying Faith 21, its brand new plus-size range, in Canada at all; and not in the brand new Forever 21 being built in Metrotown as we speak (despite the fact that it's supposedly a two-floor store with plenty of room). And to make matters worse, it isn't going to be carried in Washington state, and we Canadians won't be able to order it online.

If anyone thinks this is as rididculous as I do, please send comments to Forever 21's customer service HERE. Seriously, I think this line is going to be flying off the shelves, and they're idiots not to be stocking it in every store.

Hi! My name is Jane, I will be anchoring this wonderful topic! It will be a one hour session for POS (people of size) and their supporters. Please register and come and share your voice with other folks in our dynamic community.


I'm runnin the caucus on May 10th for People of Size @ 1:30 pm at the venue. If you are going just look at the activity board at the location. I believe there are very few spots available for this women only glorious weekend, if you are a kink kinda woman, this is the place for you so register now!

http://canadianmayhem.com/

Don't hesitate to drop me a line!
Cheers :)

So, I picked up my daily Metro today to find this lovely article. I thought I'd give everyon the heads up in case anyone wants to join me in sending this weight bigot an informative response. :)

Pursuant to my last post in the community I decided to head out to "Forever Yours Lingerie" in Langley in my search for the perfect summer robe. I figured since I knew there was one kind of utilitarian robe for sale at Penningtons I would check out the other for-sure spot in town to make sure I was aware of all my options.

First, you should be aware that it has moved locations. Still on the same street, but on the opposite side and a little more to the west. But more alarmingly, I am sad to report that "Forever Yours" is no longer forever ours. I was quite chagrined to see that more than half the store is now dedicated to standard-sized sleepwear, lingerie/intimates, and swim wear. There were many beautiful, silky, luxurious, lightweight sexy robes exactly like I wanted on display, but only sizes small to extra large. When the saleswoman saw the sad look on my face she tried to steer me to a clearance rack in the back of the store where there was one long-ish robe that was not my style at all, and at a 3X, probably wouldn't have fit that well anyway.

I WAS DISAPPOINTED TO SAY THE LEAST. Just what the world needs, another lingerie shop for sizes 0 - 12. I expressed my feelings quite clearly to the saleswoman who seemed genuinely sorry, and suggested I try calling ahead next time to see if what I was looking for was in stock, to which I replied that it seemed sort of pointless if they were phasing out their plus-sized items. She insisted they are not, but just from what I saw it seems to me very likely that is what is happening.

I ended up going to Penningtons after all, and found the robe that ravenhairedgurl linked me up to, so the day wasn't a complete bust. And the robe is quite nice, though maybe not quite as nice a combination of sexy + practical I was hoping for, it will do. I guess it's back to internet-only sexy fatty shopping for me, again. :(

My friend Claire from the store Planet Claire is looking for some volounteer models for her party and fashion show on April 9 ! No experience required, but you need to be a size 14- 22. FIRST DRESS REHEARSAL: Tuesday, March 31, 7p @ Aisle 45. Open call for
anyone interested in modeling. It's okay if you haven't gotten fitted yet,
there still lots o time for that. If you can't make it, there will be
another one, as well as one the day of.Show up at Planet Claire at 212 Abbott St
in Gas town! iF YOU JUST WANT TO COME TO THE PARTY AND CHECK OUT SOME NEW FASHION, IT'S ON APRIL 9 AT at Aisle 45 (45 West Hastings) NEAR SAVE ON MEATS AND MODEL EXPRESS.THE THEME IS OLD WORLD CARNIVALE , SO DRESS UP, i HOPE i'LL SEE SOME OF YOU THERE!! TIX $20!

Hey dolls.

Anybody know if/where I could find a movie theater with movable armrests? I get uncomfy fitting my butt in between stationary armrests and I am really missing the theater my ex took me to in Portland.

Like the title says, I'm seeking a fat friendly establishment for laser hair removal. Any help/advice is welcome! :)