Are you tired of putting your life on hold until you lose weight? Would you like to live life fully today in the body you have? The Abundia Retreat is a weekend getaway for women of size, held once a year in Northern Illinois.

In place of the formal retreat, this year will be a relaxing weekend for women of size who are beginning or continuing their journey of size-acceptance.

When: Friday-Sunday, November 4-6. A group of early arrivers will check in on Thursday. Join us!

Where: Illinois Beach Resort, Zion, IL. Our group will have a private conference room all weekend, as well as a large suite for socializing and fun.

Because the weekend is unstructured, there is no program fee this year.

The Abundia group room rate is $79 per night for a Standard Room. (The pool was recently damaged and is closed until 2012; but all other facilities will be available to us.) In-room refrigerators are available free of charge and are based on availability.

Meals will be handled by each individual. Choices include on-site restaurant and lounge, local delivery services, and local restaurants. As the weekend draws nearer, we hope to plan and announce the location of several group meals; and we welcome your suggestions too!

“Abundia is a tangible reminder that fat women defy stereotypes. I see amazing women with full lives, and I know mine can be full too.” Heidi -- Indianapolis, IN

“The Abundia Retreat is the only place where I have experienced life without weight being a factor. I can take my armor off and breathe.” Karen -- MI

“Abundia is the one place in my life where I have experienced complete acceptance and love.” Maryann -- Cicero, IL

“Abundia is a safe haven and a supportive experience where we, as big beautiful women, can laugh, cry, share, dream, explore and get to know ourselves and each other.” Cory -- Burr Ridge, IL

“I have made life-long friends at Abundia with whom I've shared things I've never told anyone else. It's liberating, and even the challenging feelings are met with amazing support. So much understanding, laughing, shared strength, and friendship.” Rebecca -- Milwaukee, WI

What do you do next? Book your room! Make your reservation directly with the Illinois Beach Resort, and ask for the Abundia rate: 866-452-3224, www.ilresorts.com. Please book your room before Friday, October 7. After booking, please contact: Jeani Habegger McAleer, jeanimcaleer@gmail.com. She’ll be keeping a count of the number of attendees. She can also answer any questions about the hotel.

We know exactly how you feel! We also had to overcome our worries and fears before we attended our first retreats. So, we sincerely know how you may feel. If we can answer any of your questions, please contact us:

Leeann Enright: lean13@sbcglobal.net
Jeani Habegger McAleer: jeanimcaleer@gmail.com
Durette Hauser: durette@aaemi.com