I Did It!

I managed to lose all of the ATL bloat.  LOL  Carry on!

I was supposed to get my hair done today, but I am going to cancel that appointment because of snow.  Also, I really want to get into SHREDding for the next two weeks.  I have an event on the 23rd and I want to make sure that I look good for it.

I think that exercise is only 25 percent of the equation.  *I* get better results when I watch what I eat.  That means...No/Minimally processed foods, high quality grains and such, water (no soda), lots of green vegetables, and Omega-3s.

I started cleaning up my eating on Monday.  I am on day number three of a cleaner diet.  I feel good and I am not biting heads off.  Today is my mother's birthday, so I am going to split a cupcake with her.  But after that...Back to the salmon and brown rice.

Booby Protector Holders

This is about bras.  Sport bras to be exact.

OK.  My number one pet peeve is a bad bra.  My number two pet peeve is a bad bra while exercising.  Sometimes, I will see a plentiful woman bob bob bobbing along in boot camp or step class.  I just want to pull her aside and advise her of other bra options.

The truth of the matter is that these do not work.  *thinking*  Well, I guess it depends on how much boobage you have.  I suspect that if you are over an "A-cup" you can't get away with the simple sports bras.  IMHO, those are more for decoration and modesty.  Those things cover your REAL bra.   But that's only my opinion.

Everyone and my their mothers raved about the Enell bra. I never used it, but I think that if you are over a DD, then you should definitely check that out.


I wear the Goddess Soft Cup Sports Bra. I wear it for kickboxing, boot camp, weight lifting, and sometimes...Just around the house.  My large Cs don't move at all.  It doesn't ride up.  It doesn't shift.  It gives nice projection.  You won't have the dreaded uniboob or the flat as pancakes boobs.   I have only found it in white and gray.  I never really checked if it comes in other colors.  It isn't very pretty, but it works.  Hmmm...That would be the perfect motto for this bra. 

As you may or may not be aware, I have had a breast reduction (search the archives for the ordeal).  I bought a bunch of pretty Design Veronique recovery bras.  The lace irritated me and I RAN to a local bra shop.  The sales lady recommended the Goddess bra and I pretty much wore it through recovery.

I buy them from Just My Size.com and I rarely pay more than $20 a bra ('cause my size is always on sale).  I am sure that you can find them in other places, but JMS was the cheapest I could find them.

Do you have any good recommendations for booby protector holders?

The 60 Day Shred

Today I said something that I think should be my personal motto.  Hell, I should print it out and post it all over the house.  Here it is....

I only want to be around folks that are looking for positive growth and mature relationships.  If that is what you are in for, then you can flow with me.  If not, I still want you to be a part of my journey, but know that you will be observing from the sidelines and will be eventually left behind.  I am not going to be held back by emotional freeloaders.  Plain and simple.

I mean it.  But alas...Some folks are comfortable where they are.  I understand.

I just finished a Jillian Michaels' workout - 30 Day Shred.  I have had this video for a while.  I didn't do it because I thought that it would be crazy.  For real...Check this link out.  I thought that Jillian was on some crazy ass blue-leotard Billy Blanks bullshi+ in order to get results like that.

On Sunday, I decided that I would start the shred and supplement with additional cardio.  This wasn't something that I took lightly.  Well, see what had happened was...The Firm basically kicked my butt and told me to hold it so that it could kick it some more.  I couldn't even make it through half of a Firm video. It was a humbling experience to say the least.  So, I figured that there had to be something that I could do while I regain my stamina.  But I didn't want to do a bullshit workout 'cause I have social activities planned for the Spring.  I need quick results.

I know...Slow and steady.  But Vegas awaits.  Who wants to go to Vegas looking a hot mess?

Of course, it will be a 60 Day Shred for me.  I have issues with doing the same workout every single day.  I just think that you are more susceptible to injury and boredom.  So, I'll do it 3 times a week and run with the Wii on my off days.  That reminds me!  I need to talk about booby protectors!

Here are the heart rate monitor results from my first Shred workout:
28 Minutes
6:45 Minutes in the HR Zone (I would like at least 15)
271 Calories Burned (35% Fat Calories)
Max Heart Rate - 170
Average - 142

All in all, it wasn't that bad.  I was able to complete the entire workout with a couple of modifications (jumping jacks are nothing but the devil for busty girls).  I was sweaty (not that it means anything).  I feel it in my shoulders and calves.  I suspect that I will really feel it after a good night's sleep.  I liked it because it is short and sweet and not a lot of choreography.

I have pulled out The World's Biggest Lunch Kit (mine is monogrammed!).  LOL!  I am taking a lunch to work - Homemade Black Bean soup, Lettuce Wraps with Tuna Salad (Celery, Onion, Egg, a little bit of Mayo, and cracked black pepper), Mint Green Tea and a Honey Crisp Apple.

*SIGH*

It is 4:54 a.m.  I have to go to work today.  Man, I had a wonderful time off and I could totally do this 24/7/365.  Here's my post-holiday back to work song (Gotta Get Up - Jill Scott). 

I don't want to go to work today

I rather stay home and play video games

I rather chill for real

I don't know how you feel but sometimes I feel like I'm

Workin' for nuthin' tryin' to get sumthin'

Every where I turn there's a bill standing out 

Swim the river climb the hill

Complacency you ain't gone get me no no no no

I'd rather be in my space 

I'd rather chill in my place

So I can go out and play all day I

I'd rather chill at home

I'd rather lay alone

True, but I got to work

I don't wanna go

I wanna play today

But what can I say

Bills to pay

I just can't get comfortable doing (doing) nuthin'(nuthin')

I hope that 2010 is better in terms of my job.  I have a feeling that there is a reorg coming down.  I am not sure if it will affect me, but I definitely think that the Senior Project Manager that I report to (and I use that term very loosely) is going to be affected.  He may be going to work for "the business" and I will stay in IT.  At least that is the way that I hope it goes down.  *fingers crossed*

Oh yeah.  I also have this prominently and strategically placed in my workspace.  Sometimes the only thing you can do is pray.  LOL

Going back to sleep for another hour.  

Weekly Results

I gained 3 pounds! WTF?

UGH! Oh well. I did have *fun* so ultimately that is what had to happen. I am not new to this weight loss thing so I know that I can drink a lot of water and totally pee it out. LOL

So, the goal for this week is:

• recommit to journaling and stay within my calorie ranges
• log three hours of working out
• breakfast at home - every day, no exceptions
• dinner at home - every day, no exceptions

I feel so much better today than I did on New Year's Day.  Usually when I go through a mood it is because I am feeling overwhelmed and stressed.  So, I spent time working on what was overwhelming and stressing me out.  I spent Friday afternoon/night cleaning and organizing.  I also did a closet cleaning job that would have made Joan Crawford proud.

I am going to get my workout on and then go to church.  

Speaking of church - I need to find another church.  I have known this for a while, but I have been kinda lazy about researching a new church.  It is HARD WORK to find a new church home.  PLUS it is the church that my mother, aunt and cousin attend.  I got baptized at that church.  So, there are several key reasons why this is difficult.  I know that if I go then my family goes.  LOL

Here's what I need for a potential church home:

1. A variety of service times...8, 10, 12, and possibly a 5 oclock.
2. 1/2 a hour for praise and worship.  1 hour for "the word".  Anything longer than that and you lose my attention.
3. A preacher that actually understands the bible and uses it as the foundation for his sermons.  *side eye*  I have attended churches where you don't even have to bring a bible.  LOL
4. Minimal pulpit pagentry and foolishness.  I visited a church where the preacher sent the offering plates back and said, "I can't buy deodorant with this.  Y'all see me up here sweating."  He was working his behind off.  He also added a lot of "ha"s, "mmmmm-hmmmmmm"s, and repeated key points repeatedly.  He also peppered the sermon with Luther Vandross.  It was my Daddy's church.  Said Preacher eulogized my father.  LOL
5. Minimal congregation foolishness.  I can't control how someone gets their praise on, BUT if you are always rolling around in the aisle, then...um. er.
6. Come as you are.  I usually dress very appropriately for church - conservatively colored suit, dress, skirt and jacket, pumps, hair, makeup, etc. But sometimes...I want to wear slacks and a sweater or something.  Heck, I may want to wear jeans.  In some churches casual attire is frowned upon. In some churches, there have been sermons on women wearing pants to church.

Have a great day!

Mid Winter Blahs!

I didn't make any New Year's Resolutions, but I am still looking over my life - evaluating friends, relationships, and goals.

I realize that I am coming down from my holiday season high. I had such a wonderful holiday season. I traveled. I partied. I dined. I reacquainted with old friends and strengthened new ones. I have positive relationships with family members. I am truly blessed.

I am sitting here with tears in my eyes. These ain't happy tears. Throughout the holiday season, I went out with friends and had such fun. Now on New Year's Day and I don't have that and I feel absolutely alone. I hope that this isn't a foreshadowing for the next couple of months. If so, then I am in for total dullsville.

I have learned that I am responsible for my happiness. My happiness is a choice that I have to make. My solution is that I should totally immerse myself into myself (weight loss, fitness and well-being goals) and my personal growth. I have a ton of things to do. I could sit here and feel sorry for myself or I could spend the remainder of the day organizing. At least my surroundings will be comfortable.

I bought myself these vases from Z Gallerie. I guess turquoise is out and purple is in. *shrugs*



I also need to watch my pockets, because I like to make myself happy by buying things.

The First Day Of The New Year

Happy New Year! Happy New Decade!!!

I didn't do anything last night. Well, I watched All About Steve. LOL I had a wonderful dinner and went to bed before midnight. Who does that?

I weighed myself yesterday and I was up .8 of a pound. I guess I'll just drink a ton of water today.

I have worked out and am preparing my first meal of the year.

This morning's workout will be The Firm's Body Sculpt.

Now I am going to make breakfast - potatoes, eggs, bacon, and toast. I wish I had champagne and Grand Marnier for Mimosas. But maybe that is a good thing 'cause I LURVE mimosas!

Peace Out 00s.

I am definitely one of the people that believes that the first decade of the new millennium sucked.

Loss of Parent, Terrorism, 2nd Great Depression, The Bush Years...LOL

We are swiftly approaching a new decade. My wish is that it isn't 1/2 as sucky as the 00's.

I am marinating a NY Strip Steak (I'm having steak, potatoes, pretty salad, and garlic bread)...The wine is chillin'. The movies are downloaded - The Hangover and Night At the Museum. The doggie is all rested up. Oh yeah. The snuggie is in full effect. I don't want to talk to anyone. I am not going to text. I am going to bring in the new year with a nice fuzzy dog.

Happy New Year!

Ten Years Ago...

I had the most boring New Year's Eve evah! I was on call for work - Y2K. No drinks. No party. No booty call.

I was at home alone. Waiting for my job to call me to tell me that all hell had broken loose.

No dice.

Yes. I am still mad!

The ATL

Hi!!!!!

I am in Atlanta! I arrived on Sunday morning. I am having a great time. Here's the recap.

I had to be at the airport at 5:00 am. Ungodly hour!!! Not to mention the flight was oversold and I didnt have a seat assignment. I had to ride near the engine. I saw my seat and thought, "For real son?". The flight was uneventful. I was two seconds from taking a fool down for the slightest move.

I arrived in time for breakfast and church. After that we chillaxed and caught up.

Monday - we hit the first showing of Avatar 3-d. That was a good movie....long but good. We did some shopping in Atlantic station. That evening I met my friend (who is newly divorced). I was soooooo happy to see her. She looked good. It is amazing that we Have so much in common. We are going to Vegas!

I saw Tyrese. No comment.

Tuesday - went to the premium outlet with my sister. Kenneth Cole and nine west was my downfall. I am mailing a box to st. Louis!!!!

I had dinner with my other sister (they aren't speaking *sigh*) for dinner at Red lobster. We had fun. I got to see my nephews and greAt nieces and nephews.

My flight leaves tonight. The plan for the day is to have sushi and wine. Drop my box at Fedex and make my way to the airport.

I had a great time. I love Atlanta. But there is no place like home. I miss my boy Rooney and my mama.

No plans for NYE. I tried to make solo reservations, but there were none to be found. I'll prepare a nice meal and a cocktail. I'll watch movies and have a moment of prayer.

Exit, Christmas. Enter, New Year.

Here's my Christmas recap.

I gave really good gifts. I bought my mother a 3.5 inch television and she screamed and cried. Um. I didn't expect that. I will admit that I was very impressed with it. The picture is AMAZING. Who knew? I tried to talk her out of getting it but she pulled the guilt on me..."I can watch television while takin' your little ol' dog for a walk." LOL

Rooney got a lot of gifts. He will be nicely dressed and smelling good until next Christmas.

I got a lot of gifts. Some were nice. Some were naughty. But the biggest gift was to spend time with my family and all of the text messages and calls from friends.

The most interesting gift was a photo of my family at Disney World about five years ago. I couldn't believe how fit I was. I also couldn't believe that I had shoulder length hair! I was pretty hot shit. Why didn't I see the positive attributes? I was too focused on my flaws and trying to lose the last 10 pounds and trying to lose this or that. If When I get back to weight, I'm wearing a damn bikini! Hopefully that will be this summer.

So, let's talk about the eating and such. Well, I didn't eat nearly as much as I thought that I would. I ate a light breakfast (considering all of the food that I cooked - biscuits, eggs, potatoes, bacon/sausage) and one plate of dinner (ham, dressing, bread, greens, sweet potatoes, and a spoonful of potato salad). I ate one small cupcake. No sweet potato pie. No ice cream. I didn't even have a glass of wine...I drank far too much on Christmas Eve.

I wasn't trying to be "good". I just ate what I was in the mood to eat.

I guess that is a good way to be.

My Favorite Scene In Boomerang!!!!

LOL! I feel the need to watch Boomerang!

6:50 is funny!



Here's another good scene. *moving hands like Martin Lawrence*



I also like this part...Start at 3:23 Cutie Pie. 4:29 is also a good part. You got to coo-oor-di-nate. But my favorite part is 6:21...Reverse it...Don't be...

Another 1.5 Pounds

I am down 7.5 pounds! Yay. I am 2.5 pounds to my first key. It will be sterling silver!

I know...I know. I usually weigh myself on Saturday, but considering the food and family based activities that I am about to engage in, I weighed myself today.

Oh yeah. How about I am leaving for Atlanta in a few days? How about I am afraid that I am going to come back heavy, with a serious carb face (this is a new term I learned)? So, I am packing some Mick approved snacks - trail mix for my oatmeal, light popcorn...I also found a purse-sized food journal, so I am going to take that. No excuses!

My goal for today - don't overdo the cookies and pies.
My goal for the Atlanta trip - don't drink a lot! Watch my consumption of chicken and waffles. Shopping will be my cardio!

Have a wonderful Christmas! I love all three of ya! :)

I Need To Go Back To Sleep...

I had a late night and an early morning. Get your dirty mind out the gutter!

I should go to sleep, wrap presents, walk my dog or something. I have a 2:00 hair appointment. I'll laze around all day and won't get nothing done!

Here's what I accomplished this morning...

• I did a blog entry on burlesque dancing. LOL
• I had a wonderful breakfast of Oatmeal with brown sugar, nuts, raisins and Almond Milk
• I friended Shawn Stockman on Facebook. LOL I *heart* him.
• Downloaded a song by Boyz II Men - Makin' Love

Speaking of Boyz II Men.  I know that they caught a lot of flack and lost fans because of their heavy emphasis on ballads and love songs.  But that's the reason that I like them!!!  Plus their voices are perfect.   

5. 50 Candles (my favorite part is 2:04)

4. Please Don't Go (3:40 is my favorite part)

3. Right On Time - I know...I know...This song is about cheating (shout out to Tiger Woods and the Tiger lites), but really...You know that this is a hot song.

2. Motown Philly

1. Uhh Ahh - The Sequel

Notice that I didn't include "End Of The Road" or I'll Make Love To You. Overplayed.  Overdone.  Over it!

Have a wonderful Christmas Eve.

Burlesque...

On January 5, I am going to start Burlesque Bump N Grind workouts.  *looking around nervously*

Not like R. Kelly Bump N Grind. Umph.

I am talking about sequins (sequences *rolling eyes*), feathers, gloves, fans, and tassles.

I have always been intrigued by it.  I love anything related to burlesque dancers and 50s pinups.  I have been to a couple of burlesque shows (one in Vegas and one here).  Fun.  Fun. Fun.  It isn't like stripping or anything.  It is always about the teeeeease, the costumes, fifties pop culture, glamour and the dance.  Plus, the cocktails...

I have a theory...I think that Burlesque Dancing would be very good to promote positive self-esteem. One of the key tenets of being a successful burlesque dancer is about loving yourself AND the image that you see in the mirror. It has nothing to do with pleasing men. Um. Have I mentioned the costumes?

I am so there! Well, I am supposed to wear something "sexy". Seriously? I have NOTHING sexy. All of my sexy stuff is deliberately sexy. *sigh* I'll just wear Nike Shorts and a pink Tank. Control yourselves. I kinda wish I had a tank with sequins or something. I am going to look for thin tennis shoes or something.

Aside - Speaking of sexy...I received a Victoria's Secret box. LOL!!!! I'm scared to open it! If you are aware of my dating situation, you know that I have good reason to be afraid!!!

The Bad Girls Club - Portia Vs. Natalie

Again...I loves me a trashy reality show.  I am surprised that Natalie got her ass whooped. She obviously didn't learn that you don't talk shit about someone and think that they can't hear you. Who does that?

That said.  I have been waiting for Natalie to get beat down.  I know...I know...Violence is never the answer.  However, sometimes it is completely acceptable for certain questions.

My theory?  Sometimes you have to box it out.

In eighth grade, I had my first and only real fight.  Her name was Michele, but everyone called her Meechie.  She was a frenemy.  To paraphrase President Bush - She was jealous of my way of life.  Maybe she just didn't like me?  Well, at any rate, she thought that I was the one.  I am a lover, not a fighter. I didn't have beef with anybody and I sure didn't want to fight. Anywhoo, Meechie thought that she could take me.  I didn't want to fight her.  Her family owned a "tavern" and she lived over the tavern.  I wasn't going to fight a Tavern dweller!!!

One day we were cool and the next day she was talking shit.  She had me scared to walk my block.  My mother knew something was up.  One day she said, "You can fight your brother like a damn banshee.  You better fight her back.  You bet' not come up in here crying and not hit back."  Who says that?  I remember thinking, "Nooooo!  I don't want to fight.  I have too much to lose!!!  I like my face!" 

But sometimes a girl has to do what she has to do.

I walked the block to visit my friend to play Atari LOL.  Meechie saw me and immediately started loud talking in front of boys.  The next thing I know she is in my face.  She put her finger in my face.  So, I mushed* her (one hand...completely in her face).  That's what got it cracking.

I completely wilded out on that girl.  I busted her nose.  Damn near pulled her shirt off.  LOL  Kicked her in the coo-coo.  The next thing I know my hands are around her neck.  The boys had to pull me off of her.




I had blood on my hands and completely lost it.  I thought that *I* was bleeding.  I started bawling.  The ugly cry.  Loud sobbing.  Then that bitch started talking shit with a bloody ass nose and my hand prints on her neck.  Talking about she won.  Really?  I had no marks on me and everything was intact.  The boys pretty much told her to sit down somewhere.  It was big talk in my neighborhood.  Micki beat the hell out of Meechie.

My friend's mother pulled me in the house and congratulated me.  Apparently she watched the entire scene from her window. Um. She didn't see me about to get into a fight? She should have stopped it!   She cleaned my hands and looked me over.  But she called my mother.  I stayed there and played video games.  And then my PARENTS picked me up.  LOL

So, I started walking the block again.  LOL  A couple of weeks later, that bitch spoke to me.  *umph*  We ended up going to the same high school and she was actually in my circle.  We used to walk home from school together.  I never completely trusted her and was always two seconds away from stomping her down.

I saw her a few years ago.  She came over to talk to me.  I sat there thinking, "If this ho makes one swift move, I am going to snatch her eyes out."

In high school, there was another situation where I should have boxed it out.  Again...More loud talking.  I was smart because she had a crew that resembled the Gross Sisters (Proud Family - big ashy broads).  It was one of me and three of them.  So, I took the smart route and walked away.  That girl is in my facebook.  PLUS I saw her a few years ago when I was in Baltimore.  LOL  I was amazed that she hugged me.  I sat there thinking, "If she even looks like she is going get smart, I'mma snatch the rest of her hair out right chere in BWI airport."  LOL

Who does that?




* Courtesy of Urban Dictionary - a forceful pressing motion to the forehead, used to show dominance (usually from a man to woman, or woman to woman) and confrontation

ThisClose

I went to Tiffany and Company today.  I was thisclose to purchasing a key pendant.  Who does that?  I specifically said that I would get one when I hit my weight loss goal.  It was very difficult, but I walked out the door emptyhanded.  I felt empowered.  I felt proud.  I felt committed.  I felt like walking back in that store and buying it.

 

So, I decided that I would buy the 18K yellow gold for 25 pounds ($10 per pound).  I would buy two silver ones for the goal weight ($10 per pound).  I am going to put all of them on the same pendant.  It is going to be fabulous!  Simply gorgeous darling.  I'll need a chain.  LOL

 

The only gold chain that I have is a herringbone necklace.  LOL!!!

 

Aside - who remembers Add A Bead necklaces?  LOL

New Year, New Plan?

 

I have some level of success with the journaling.  I think that it is time for me to kick things up.  I need to figure out a workout plan.  I won gift certificates to take three Strip Tease classes!  Woo-hoo!  But a couple of strip tease classes is not an exercise program make.

 

I am thinking about doing a personal trainer.  One of my classmates is a trainer.  His body is sick.  But to be quite honest, I am afraid that he is going to push me too much.  Plus he is very talky.  Also, am I the only person that is leery of male personal trainers?  I had one.  The whole stretching thing was weird.  *wide stare*  I never felt right when he spotted me from behind.  *side eye*  Also it was interesting when he took my measurements and told me how good I looked.  *gasp*  He was a consummate professional, but I recently saw him on match.com.  LOL

 

So, there is a trainer that does free boot camps in the park.  No I am not talking about King James.  I am talking about free bootcamps in a local park.  There is no cursing or calling folks out of their names.  The trainer also does small group training and the results are phenomenal.  I have heard good things about her, so I am contacted her.  She invited me to her "New Year's Exercise Boot Camp".  I am going to go.

 

Also, I should really work on getting my eating together.  I think that I should concentrate more on whole foods.  I have been eating really healthy breakfast and dinner.  I think it offsets the lunches that I eat.  If the lunch is too much, I will have a nice salad for dinner.  But I want to be more consistent.

Congratulations Miss Heidi!!!!

Miss Heidi won the giveaway!!!!  Please send me your address and such to mickmicki2002 (at) yahoo (dot) com.  :)

If I don't get Heidi's information, then....I'm am going to give the pedometer to Vanessa...

The goal is to do a good sweaty workout tonight, Tuesday night, and Wednesday morning.  I am going to get my hair done on Wednesday.  After that I fully intend on sitting my behind down somewhere so that I don't sweat out my 'do.  LOL  I won't work out again until New Year's Eve.  *looking around nervously*

It's Official

I am going to the ATL.  I found a much cheaper ticket.  Then I used Skymiles and my AMEX (double points), so I am ok with the bottom line price.  Of course, I had to search and search and search because I REFUSE to fly on a commuter plane (thinking of the plane scene in The Proposal).  I did find a MD-88, so I am cool with that.  Exit row seats only...

OK.  Let's talk about social networking sites....

There are a lot of folks that I have been reintroduced to via social networking sites (ning.com, facebook.com, myspace.com, yuku.com etc). *cough*SomeIregret*cough* ...Some I don't.  Also, a lot of my friendships have been strengthened as a result.  I don't like to keep a phone to my ear.  IMO, telephone conversations are a waste of time.  So, I read status updates and boom...I'm caught up.



I just got an email from a long-lost friend.  I haven't seen her in years.  I am so happy that she emailed me!  She was one of my best friends.  I was wrapped up in a relationship and didn't know how to mix my man and my friends.  So, I wasn't the "best of friends".  Ultimately it is something that I really regret.  She emailed me on Facebook and we are going to meet for lunch this week!

The Champagne Martini

I have been all over the 'net.  I am searching for a Champagne Bellini Martini recipe.  I went to the restaurant's website and got the ingredients from their menu.

I'll need to use:
Vodka
Champagne
Peach Schnapps (I wonder if Grand Marnier will be better)
Orange Juice

I don't know the exact formulation, soooooo...I'll have to experiment to figure it out!  *claps wildly*

I am thisclose to biting the bullet and paying $300 for tickets to Atlanta.  I think that price includes car rental.

Holiday Celebration

As I stated, I had a holiday celebration on Saturday night.  We ended up going to a tapas restaurant.  I had a great time.  I had a champagne martini.  Actually, I had two.  My word.  They were the bomb and I was a little bit twisted!!  I am going to replicate the recipe and definitely make those to celebrate the new year.

I didn't take my camera out the entire time.  I was so busy running my mouth and laughing...and drinking...and eating.  I had a great time.

I DID however take loads and loads of bathroom self portraits.  Who does that?  Here's one of the photos.  I totally forgot that I had this sequined tank.  If my arms were somewhat toned, I would have worn it alone.  I wore with a black velvet blazer and tuxedo pants.  You can't see it, but I wore a jeweled barrette.  Oh yeah.  I'mma need your people to stop saying sequences.  One of the fellas said that my teeth and sequences blinded him.  LOL

New Years Eve...I was invited to a party.  In Kansas City *boo*.  I really would like to go to Atlanta, but the plane tickets are astronomical.  I don't really feel like driving.  I might end up going to Kansas City.  It is not the same, but it is closer and cheaper and it IS an invitation.

I think that I am going to join a dating forum (is that what they are called)?  I am thinking Match.com or something.  Not necessarily for a romantic situation, but more for dating adventures.  Someone has to take Babs' place :( .

Living Well...

I had dinner with a blast from the past.  He looked like shit...Stir fried shit.  His skin looked gray.  His eyes were dull - grayish.  His hair...Gray.  If he had on a gray shirt, I wouldn't have been able to tell what was what.  LOL  Just a little joke to add a little bit of levity.  He looks really unhappy and stressed.  I know that he has health issues and I also know that he isn't taking care of himself - mentally or physically.  I know that he isn't eating well.  I know that he isn't taking vitamins.  I know that he is in a fucked up relationship.  All of that shows and it ain't a good look.  To say that I am worried is an understatement.  Especially given the severity and riskiness of his health issues.  I hope that he gets it straight.

For me, my weight loss is purely based on vanity.  I know...I know.  But hell.  Everyone has to have a reason.  If I had health issues, then it would be based on my health.  LOL  But I just believe that there is a look to those that are living well - vibrant skin and hair, genuine smiles, and an overall happy and pleasant demeanor. 

I want to make sure that I stay as youthful as possible for as long as possible.  I want to look and feel happy.  I am a subscriber to Real Age .

My real age is younger than my chronological age, but not by much.  Hell, I used to be 7 years younger.  But now...Not so much.

If you haven't done it, then I highly recommend that you take your real age test and read the results. You may find something that you can improve upon.  What is your real age?

Also, I am going to do the drawing for the pedometer again.  I haven't heard from the winner.   Their loss.  Your gain.  I'll do it again on Sunday.

Laters!

6 pounds!!!

I am down six pounds.  I have a spreadsheet where I track my weight.  I do the actual and I also forecast *looking around for other Project Managers*.  I thought that I would have been thin overnight lost more weight by now.  But nevertheless, I am happy.  I hope that I get my glow back.

It is 7:12 am and I have got today's workout out of the way.  I did The Firm - Body Sculpt.  I love Jen Carman.  Her arms are amazing!!  Anyway, I always do half the repetitions in the section you climb the tall box 'cause I don't like what it does to my booty.  LOL  But I do everything else.

I burned 450 calories.

Today's Menu
Breakfast - 1/2c Scrambled Egg Whites with Spinach *sigh* - 88 calories
Snack - Protein Shake - 1 scoop of Whey Protein, Frozen Mixed Berries, 1 cup of 1% milk - 200 calories
Late Lunch - Tilapia,  Brown Rice, Vegetables - 300 calories
Late Snack - Oatmeal - 150calories
Dinner - Chicken Breast, 1/2 baked sweet potato, and some sort of veggie - 350 calories

Later ;) - 2 Champagne Cocktails (!!!) - 300, chocolate covered strawberries (?) - 200, small plate - 200

Total calories? - 1788 calories
Calories burned - 450 calories

I should probably add some flaxseeds to my oatmeal.

Due Yue Fondue?

I rarely stay out late on week nights.  Last night, I met a few friends at the Melting Pot.  I had a great time!

 

We started off with Godiva Chocolate Cappucino martinis.  After about an hour of chatting at the bar, we went to our tables and ate fondue.

 

We were there for four hours.  We talked about men, relationships, fashion, makeup, dogs, and laughed.  I had a great time.

 

I also gave my friend Tammy her stuff for her dog and even helped her name him!  I suggested Jett.  She is thinking about it.  I hope that's the name.

 

This weekend, I am going to a vodka and champagne bar.  The "gimmick" is that the room is an ice locker and furniture is blocks of ice.  Everyone wears a parka and gloves.  Yes, girls.  St. Louis.

 

I fully plan on partaking in champagne and strawberries.  I also fully intend on snuggling next to a man to keep warm.  I also plan on having a warm mixture of hot chocolate and Godiva liqueur AND a nice warm man to heat me up.

 

;)

 

Fa-La-La-La-La.

La-La-La-La!

The Worst Christmas Song Evah!

The Cat Song

 

My co-worker, Lena, and I went to lunch.  She wanted me to hear a Christmas song that made her cry.  Why she wanted to share that with me?  I don't know.  Mind you she has listened to this song at least fifteen times and she cries every single time.

 

So, I listened.  Jeez Louise.

 

I listened and the next thing I know tears are streaming down my face.  Here are the lyrics...

 

 The cat wanted in to the warm warm house,
but no one would let the cat in
It was cold outside on Christmas Eve,
She meowed and meowed by the door.

The cat was not let in the warm warm house,
And her tiny cries were ignored.
'twas a blizzard now, the worst of the year,
There was no place for her to hide.

Just then a poor little mouse crept by,
He had lost his way in the snow.
He was on his last legs and was almost froze,
The cat lifted him with her paw.

She said "Poor mouse do not be afraid,
because this is Christmas Eve.
"On this freezing night we both need a friend,
"I won't hurt you - stay by my side."

She dug a small hole in an icy drift,
This is where they would spent the night.
She curled herself 'round her helpless friend,
Protecting him from the cold.

Oooooo

When Santa came by near the end of the night,
the reindeer started to cry.
They found the cat lying there in the snow,
and they could see that she had died.

They lifted her up from the frozen ground,
and placed her into the sleigh.
It was then they saw the little mouse wrapped up,
she had kept him warm in her fur.

"Oh thank you Santa for finding us!
"Dear cat wake up we are saved!"
..."I'm sorry mouse but your friend has died,
there's nothing more we can do.

"On Christmas Eve she gave you her life,
the greatest gift of them all."
Santa lifted her up into the night sky,
and laid her to rest among the stars.

"Dear mouse don't cry you are not alone,
you will see your friend every year.
"Each Christmas a Cat Constellation will shine,
to remind us that her love's still here."

Oooooooo

 

My word.  The reindeer cried!!!  The little mouse didn't know that the dear cat was dead.  I cried when the cat died, but grew optimistic because I thought that Santa would perform a Christmas miracle.  No dice!

 

So I googled to find out about this song.  I read other bloggers and they all thought that this song is depressing.  Then I found a picture that a little girl drew...It was Dear Cat snuggled around the mouse.  I started crying...again.  Who does that?

 

I was so disturbed by this and had so many questions....

 

Why was the cat outside?  Who would let their cat outside and not let them in?  Why didn't the mouse burrow in the ground or eat through some insulation and burrow in someone's basement? Why didn't Santa bring the dear cat back to life?!?!?! 

 

Damn The Cat Carol!  I'll stick to listening to the Temptations rendition of Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer or Stephen Colbert's Another Christmas Song.

Why Am I Excited?

My friend, Tammy, bought a Shih Tzu puppy.  He is her Christmas gift :).  He won't "come home" until Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.  Why am *I* excited?  She sent me photos and he is sooo cute.  He is all black with a white belly.

 

I have bundled up a bunch of things - old crates, dog training books and treats to give to her doggy. 

 

I have invited myself over to see the puppy.  Ain't that a damn shame?  Come over to see the dog?  Really?  LOL  I also bought him a Christmas sweater. I will wrap it in my doggy Christmas paper.  :)

 

My Rooney.  *sigh*  He is going through a barking phase.  He rarely barks in the house.  He only barks when he goes outside.  As soon as I walk outside, he starts barking.  Like he is alerting all of the dogs in the neighborhood that he is outside.  When you hear him bark, he sounds sooo ferocious.  His little growl is scary too.  LOL  He is always underfoot.  He didn't use to be that way.  He was very independent.  Now he follows behind me or is always looking to see what I am doing.

 

When it is something that he wants from me - fill his water bowl or take him outside...He lets me know by pulling my pant leg.  I tell ya.  My dog is a genius!

Merry Christmas From Bloomingdale's

I'm racking up on the free shit.  LOL

 

Thanks Babs for hooking me up with the Sephora gift card.  :)

 

Today I received a $50(!!!) certificate from Bloomingdales - check your emails!  I used it to buy a newsboy cap and a MAC palette that I really wanted.

 

I don't recall buying a lot from them.  I wonder why they did that?  I also checked my other emails to make sure that there were no other gift certificates sitting around in the inbox.

 

Oh yeah.  I am definitely planning on gifting people and making their day.  I am putting together my surprise boxes. :)

 

I cleaned the house yesterday.  I am going to do a tree tonight (hopefully).  Fa-la-la-la-la!

The Results Are In - Week #2

Hmmm...I almost forgot to update!

 

My knee is better, but I had to pull out my compression thingamajig.  Ahhhh. Relief.

 

I weighed myself today.  I am disappointed to say the least...I am down a measly .4.  I assume that is a 1/4 of a pound.  I am horrible with converting numbers to metrics, how many tsps in a cup, and other measurements.

 

Here's what I did well....

 

 

 

 

 

Yep.  Absolutely nothing.  I have misplaced my handy dandy journal.  Oh well.  At least I didn't gain weight.  But I keep on trekking. 

 

Yesterday I had on a tank top.  It is very evident that I need to hit the weights.  Hard, slow and very heavy.  I had a totally inappropriate joke, but I will save that for another audience.

 

I think that the next week will be interesting.  I have a variety of social events and such.  I have a work thing, two holiday outings with friends, and Sunday brunch with my mother.  I usually do well with work food functions, 'cause I don't eat everybody's food.  I know who does and who does not wash their hands so I don't freely sample.  Plus...I know one person that is a crotch scratcher.  She is not even discreet with it.  Always wants to bring in chicken salad.  Um.  Nothanks.  I don't want fish with my chicken salad.  But I digress...The most exciting thing is that I am going to the Melting Pot on Wednesday night.  I fully intend on having a cocktail, dessert, and lots of cheese and bread.

 

So, my goals for the week are:

1.  Journal bites, licks and tastes

2.  Workout.

3.  Don't go crazy at the buffet.

4.  Water, Water, Water.

It's Official! Erica won!

It is official!  Erica won the pedometer!  Yay!

Erica please email your address!  Mickmicki2002@yahoo.com

Thank you and congrats!

P.S.  I am not sure how I got on Lifestyle Crafts either.  Ohhhhh....The cupcake flags.  I wanted to learn how to do cupcake flags and stuff.  LOL

Saturday Nights Are For Suckas

This has been a miserable day! I got my car fixed and cleaned *yay!*. I went out to lunch.

All week I have been having issues with my left leg. I have an excruciating pain when I move it, apply any pressure, or breathe on it. I yell out in pain when I do a squat. I can't isolate where the pain is. It is around my knee. Not the top, but the back and side of my knee.

I *should* go to the doctor, but...I'm skerred. I have managed to scare the hell out of myself by Googling. I am definitely going to go next week.

So, now I am sitting here with Nino Brown and Ice T. UGH Some Saturday.

I am sitting at home. Bored as hell. I really need a new life.

*cue the world's smallest violin*

I feel like I am stuck in the same ol' life and everone else is moving forward. Ultimately I realize that it is up to me to change my life. I can't imagine going into another decade with this same ol' boring ass life.

I guess I can't really complain because I have a really good life, but I would have thought that I would have got the love thing right by now. It used to be fun, but now it isn't. I can't point my finger at anyone but myself.

*pity party over*

Hey. Chris Rock stand up is on!

Later!