Hi Shape Shifters! I’m looking forward to getting to know you all a little better. I’m Patrice — I really value healthy eating and active engagement with the world but I haven’t been carrying out these values as well as I’d like to in the past year or two. I’m recommitting myself today!

In June 2021, I joined the F2F group at 135 pounds and I met my goal weight (125 pounds) by the end of September 2021. After maintaining my weight within my target range of 125-130 for a year, I went over that range in November 2022. My weight gradually creeps up as my life gets busier so finding balance is important to my success. When I have more tasks and responsibilities on my shoulders, I exercise less and eat more mindlessly. These hectic times are when I need to pay more attention - not less - to mindful eating and intentional daily movement.

Lately, I’ve been putting more time into caring for aging relatives and developing my business, which is dedicated to public engagement, and leading systems change with the people who are most able to make day-to-day improvements: practitioners on the ‘frontlines’ of the work, families, self-advocates and community members who benefit the most from the practice changes. We follow the worker and disability rights principle of “Nothing about us, without us,” which calls for people with lived experience to shape and lead efforts to improve results. People want to participate in solving the problems they face! I work primarily in the areas of child development, health, early learning, education, mental health and overall personal wellbeing (e.g., independent living, meaningful employment, social-emotional connection, civic engagement, etc.).

Ironically, I’m working harder right now so I can establish a more consistent work schedule. I’m creating a new website and setting up online courses so I can host interactive learning sessions at times that work well for me so my schedule isn’t as erratic. I’d like to record short, introductory videos about how to use the content and resources I am recommending for specific clients to use with their partners to address the problems they face. Since I’m designing the new business structure while still trying to meet the needs of my existing consulting clients, It’s taking time away from my self care — in terms of healthy eating and exercise.

I’ve decided that I may have to extend the timeline for growing my business so I can dedicate more attention to my health. In the end, we’re often more efficient and effective when we exercise, eat right, and get enough sleep. I guess it’s time to trust what the research, and my life’s work tells me about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, so I can refocus. In May, I will embody the values I promote, and live with more integrity across my professional, personal, and inter-personal beliefs and behaviors.

I live with my husband in Alexandria, Virginia (USA) and often visit Boston, Massachusetts to spend time with my older son, extended family, and friends. Our two adult sons will be staying with us more during the summer during the college break. So, I hope I can model healthy eating and plan some fun activities with them to get us all moving more. My older son likes hiking and my younger son enjoys tennis and does daily ab workouts with me when he’s home. I’m looking forward to seeing them!