Who is kiwithetattooedlady?

Hi. My name is Karen. And I am a lot of things.

I am a student of the Dr Sears Wellness Institute to become a certified health coach!💪🏻🥝🥗🍕💕

I got to marry my best friend in December 2016 and we have two amazing rescue dogs. Those three are my world. We moved cross country from Massachusetts to Portland, Oregon on Christmas night 2016 and so far we’re having the time of our lives!

Having made this decision to reclaim my health through weight loss surgery (as well as healthy eating and regular exercise) has been the driving force behind my career path. I truly enjoy finding new ways of treating my body through tasty foods and finding new and fun ways to MOVE it. Being able to find a professional career that enhances my personal life and health is something I’ve tried desperately to achieve. I believe I’ve found my calling in nutrition and fitness; and I can’t wait to see what else I can do.

I’ve been making YouTube videos off and on for a few years now and I’ve decided I’d like to explore the world of blogging to supplement my yummy Instagram posts.

I love sci-fi, vintage and alternative professorial fashion (I think just made up that category), yoga, fitness and trying to find balance in all aspects of my life through mindful eating, treating’ yo-self and finding new things to fall in love with on a daily basis. And changing my hair colour.

I have a lot of ups and downs, but that’s what balance is all about…right?

I’ve decided to start up this blog to share my love of food, mindful eating (and treating!) with the world. Since having weight loss surgery (in the form of a vertical sleeve gastrectomy or VSG) in June of 2014, I’ve started to truly understand the relationship between my nutrition and how it affects my body. I’ve lost somewhere in the ballpark of 140lbs from my highest known weight and I’ve gained back the life I deserve to have.

Follow my journey and we can help each other stay inspired. Say HI! Ask questions.. and let’s eat (:
It should be noted that I am still learning what my body is capable of and I’m still trying to figure out what works best for ME. I honestly believe that it will be a lifelong learning experience. Any opinions or thoughts that I may have about how I am losing/gaining/maintaining weight is through my own observations of my personal dietary/exercise habits. What works for me might not work the same way for you! Please remember that I am only here to help you see what I’m doing for myself.. if your surgeon/nutritionist has other opinions, remember that each practice is different and I’m not a doctor! But I play one on TV!!