Who's The Phat Girl

"Size Friendly"?

2011-04-01T05:43:00.000-07:00

Is there such thing as "size friendly?" Well apparently there is. I went to the gym to warm up before kick-boxing last night and on the window were the words "size friendly." Whatever happened to just being "friendly"? I would hope that regardless of my "size" any fitness business/organization/institution would welcome me with open arms (1. I'm paying for it; 2. Word of mouth is the best referral; and 3. That's what they are there for right? To promote healthy living?). At first I didn't think anything of the "size friendly" statement, but now after seeing it every time that I go to the gym, I'm taking a little offense to it. Maybe all sorts of places should just start putting that on their windows, like retail stores ...it would help me to detect and avoid stores where I'm likely to receive dirty looks, or bars where I should be prepared to deal with people who find it funny to put others on blast who are just out to have fun with their friends.

So I decided to do some research on the phrase "size friendly." To my surprise there are many businesses and services that market themselves as being "size friendly." I found everything from Amish furniture, yellow pages, a website promoting the success of curvy women, and doctors. I even found a site that promotes "fat friendly" physicians. When I think of it, there are probably lots of places that market themselves to a particular type of "group." This "size friendly" category is just one of many.

I guess, growing up, I never really noticed differences, nor did I segregate myself, run with a certain crowd, or dress a certain way. However, I'm sure others probably gave me a label. So the question becomes, are we a society that has become too dependent on face value and labels? Has individuality and uniqueness been replaced by conformity and labels? Let's take Susan Boyle for example (I only mention her because my sister, mom and I were talking about her this weekend). Susan Boyle was not heard of until the last couple of years. It took a reality TV show appearance for her to present her great talent and personality. Until that point, people only took her at face value, seeing a frumpy, middle-aged woman who sang in her church choir. Now don't get me wrong, I know it's a two way street. You have to be willing to take a risk and open yourself up to others, and others need to be willing to see and accept you even though you are different from them and unique in your own right.

Being on this healthy lifestyle journey has really opened my eyes (and ears) to the overwhelming response to the nation's obsession with obesity, and how desensitized society has become to various topics of discussion. As a nation, do you think we have become desensitized?

I will leave you with this quote I found...
“When you're a beautiful person on the inside, there is nothing in the world that can change that about you. Jealousy is the result of one's lack of self-confidence, self-worth, and self-acceptance. The Lesson: If you can't accept yourself, then certainly no one else will.”

- Sasha Azevedo

Back to the Grind

2011-01-04T05:47:00.000-08:00

Ahh routine...how I missed thee...let me count the ways...

I do love the holidays. A time to catch up, a time to give, a time to eat, drink and be merry, and a time for excuses. I admit it, I did a lot of excusing over the holidays...I can't work out because I have to holiday shop...I can't work out because I have x,y and z party to go to...I can't work out because I'm too tired. I call B.S. on myself. I've come to realize I have to have accountability for my fitness (or sometimes lack there of) actions.

People always ask me how I'm so motivated to do this and how can I motivate them. Well I'd be lying to you if I say motivation is easy, and that I stay motivated 24/7. I have my days, we all do. I have days where all I want to do is go home from work, veg out, put on my PJ's and rock out to some hulu.com. I have days were I'm kicking and screaming all the way to the gym. In all honesty, you have to ask yourself, "Do I really want to get healthy? Do I really want to feel better, mentally, emotionally and physically? Am I ready to put myself and my health first?" If you answered yes to these questions then what are you waiting for, jump on it! You're only going to get out of something what you put in. It's easy to get demotivated especially when you have a bad day or a week. Don't let that get you down...just remember this is a process, and you're the one in control. If I can do this you can do this. It's easy to fall into the ugly pit of temptation, and if you do, pick yourself up, dust your shoulder off, and keep moving forward.

Digging in the Pantry
So today I didn't do as well as I expected:
Breakfast: Some cinnamon thingy they had at work
Lunch: Healthy Choice Chicken noodle soup, cashews, pretzels and diet root beer
Snack: Granola Bar
Dinner: Dewey's side salad and split a Bronx Bomber pizza with friend and 2 glasses of ice tea

I feel into the left over candy at work trap and had two mini snack size candy bars.
Water drank: 84.5 oz

The Workout
Workout was tough. I joined a kickboxing class and it was a little different than usual. They do more partner work than they do bag work. All in all it was a good workout...I'm feeling it today. The class is 50 minutes long and teaches you self defense on top of working core muscle groups. After that I did 35 minutes on the elliptical. Crazy...I think so.

What are some of your healthy new years goals?

I Didn't Lose 50 Pounds Sitting on My Butt...Right?

2010-12-30T13:53:00.000-08:00

Well, well look who's back blogging. I apologize to my readers ... unacceptable I know, but in good old excuse fashion things have been busy. I can point the blame at all sorts of things but the problem is there are three fingers pointing back at me! Where to begin...let's recap the past five months...

I moved back to my hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio
I took a position with a company I use to work for
I've immersed myself back into a schedule that is just as busy as an A-list celebrity on a movie junket
Oh and the fun part...I've gained back 10 of the 50 pounds I lost

Where does this leave me you ask. It leaves me with a feeling of failure. Failure in letting old habits creep back in; Failure in resisting temptation; Failure in my own free-will of this journey I'm on. Falling off the wagon isn't easy...I take that back it is. All it takes is one damn Reese's Tree and that leads to the whole damn forest (not that I would know that or anything). Falling off wagon also hurts...not that I would personally know what actually falling off a wagon would be like, but I'm sure it would hurt like hell...especially on a gravel road. Ouch. Falling off the weight loss wagon sucks...it's the worst feeling in the world, right up there with a power outage right in the middle of the 24 hours of A Christmas Story. I can look at it as only 10 pounds...but that's 10 POUNDS! 10 pounds of blood, sweat, tears, blisters, swollen ankles, sore muscles, bruises, and cutting calories that for what...for what! To think I can just sit back and be OK with that...hell no.

So right here, right now is my pledge to make it through this journey. Not only to lose the 10 lbs I gained, but also to drop another 50 by September 2011 (which would make my grand total donated to Susan G. Komen $100).

I'm not waiting for the new year to start to declare my war on weight ... I actually started this week. I've worked out every single day this week, replaced my carbonated beverages with water and tea, upped the ante on eating breakfast in the morning and packing balanced lunches instead of running through the drive thru. I've also signed up for kick boxing again which starts January 3, and welcome back with open arms (OK maybe not so much) the 30 Day Shred. You maybe exhausted just reading this, hell I'm exhausted just typing this, but it is necessary that I commit to this promise, not only for myself, but a better and healthier life. I'm not as young as I use to be!

Who's with me in 2011!?

Welcome Back...

2010-09-15T12:12:00.000-07:00

Wow no post since June...I really suck at this blogging thing. Life has taken many twist and turns since the last post....

I've relocated back to my hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio (very exciting I must say :) ), with that means moving back in with the rents (very exciting I must say...), starting new but old jobs, picking up bad (eating) habits, joined a gym...oh the joys of life. When it rains it pours I guess. Why is it that we are always so hard on ourselves. I've criticized myself more over the past month and half for not getting totally back on my game when I've not only been settling back in but taking on more responsibility. Sometimes I wish I wasn't my own worst critic...but then again it's better than being up against the panel on American Idol. But currently that panel just consists of Randy, so he would totally be my dawg and give me criticism followed by props. Once can dream right?

I must admit I've fallen off the band wagon of healthy eating and working out ... temporarily. For one, I have a full pantry at my expense for the first time in 2 years. Moving back in with the 'rent's for the past couple of months has not only help me save in some areas, but gain in others (like my waist line!). I guess when you are just one, single serving gal you never have a full pantry. The one thing I have noticed that I've been consuming a lot if is diet pop. I gave up pop over a year ago, and I use to have every once and a while, but since moving back home I drink it like it's going out of style...like it's air. Seriously. So this week I'm back on my no pop drinking rule, protein shakes, yogurt, fruit and mini snack kicks.

I think sometimes I need to remind myself how far I've come...I don't even give myself credit for that. Another bad habit I've picked up ... fast food. I admit it ... I suck at getting up early, packing a delicious and nutritious lunch and snacks. It only takes one day of poor decision making for me to ruin the next four. Sometimes I wish I could just walk around in the part of my brain that thinks about food. Is there a round table of chemicals and food sitting around in my brain betting on what will be the next thing I eat? And do they gang up with my hormones and emotions to cause an overabundance of feeling like I'm going to die with out pretzel m&m's?

How is everyone else doing out there!? Everyone surviving!? I'm glad fall is here...I love fall. Bring on the apple picking!

Can You Focus on This Article?

2010-06-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

So I was reading this article on MSN where they interviewed Jillian Michael's about her new show where she lives with families, flips their world up-side-down and helps show them the "healthy" way. Seriously...can you really focus on the article with DiGiorno Deep Dish Pizza surrounding an interview about healthy eating and transforming the dietary lives of people? I gained 5 pounds just looking at the screen...

Happy Wednesday.

Fat Tuesday Recap ... Emotional vs. Physical Hunger

2010-06-23T07:20:00.000-07:00

It was a bad day folks in the soup de jour department but a break through in the emotional eating department. Yesterday was a good and bad day. Good because there is a lot going on in my life right now I am excited about, bad because I feel like I can do better and haven't when it comes to this weight loss journey (I know so vague). One thing I never really thought about until recently is the disaster that can happen when food and emotions mix. I got to thinking that we eat when we are happy, we eat when we are sad, we eat when we feel nothing at all, we eat when we are stressed and why is that? In my quest to feed my need for knowledge I came across an article in Today's Diet and Nutrition about emotional hunger vs. physical hunger.

I've noticed I do two things when emotions come into play in my diet: I either eat or I don't eat. Weird right? Most emotions and celebrations involve food - a graduation, a party, showers, funerals. Even rewards can be centered around food when we do well and excel at something. When we are kids and we get hurt sometimes we are given a Popsicle or ice cream to sooth in our comforting. How do we break a learned behavior such as emotional eating?

As I've learned throughout this journey so far you have choices. Choices for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Choices for exercising. Choices for if today you will put off what you should've done yesterday. Choice to eat balance meals or skip a meal here and there. I wish I had a new word for choices, and options really isn't that much better! These choices are at times dependent on the situations we find ourselves in daily. For example, if we have a bad day at work we have a choice to take that day home with us or leave it in the office. How we deal with that bad day is when emotions come into play. I don't know about you but when I use to have a bad day in the office I would eat, go home and site on my couch and let that day fester until I decided I was ready for bed. Most times I was so busy at work I wouldn't eat and when I got home I would eat whatever I could, and eat to the point where it would hurt. Yup hurt. Not emotionally but physically. It's not the best feeling in the world folks, I don't recommend it!

Now the question becomes what is the solution to these learned emotional behaviors that have lasted all these years, that have been there through thick and thin and that I've relied on so much through good and bad times? For one, it's finding other ways to deal with these emotions instead of dealing with them through the use of food. For example, instead of taking out your bad day in the office out on your fridge, take it out in the gym, the sidewalk, reading...the list is endless. I've been making a list of all the things I CAN do: go for a walk, create a piece of artwork, sketch up a new jewelry design. And while this is going to take some time to get use to, it's necessary to. I can't let my emotions get the best of me because I worked too damn hard to be where I'm at today. I don't want to walk down that path again, so something has to change!

Sorry for the one way ticket to Debbie Downerville. It's all part of this journey I suppose, and whether or not I like it, I'm going to have to deal with it. Hope all is well with everyone! Keep fighting the good fight everyone...WE ARE IN IT TO WIN IT!

Jackie Knows Fat the Best?

2010-06-18T08:34:00.000-07:00

So Jackie Warner, celebrity trainer and star of the Bravo (non-hit) series "Workout," just dropped this book. Apparently she knows why I'm fat and she will teach me the ways of getting thin for life. I like Jackie Warner, I've seen her show, I've seen the results she has helped people achieve, and from what I've read this book has gotten mixed reviews. Not only for the content inside, which apparently it doesn't tell you anything different than anything us weight watchers don't know, but it's also getting flack for using the "F" word.
(side note: I should probably read the book for my own assessment and I plan to do that after pay day next week...book review to follow).

My fellow bloggers over Fit Bottom Girls posted this about the book. I have to agree with Jenn on some of her points. The use of the word "fat" is definitely sensationalized on this cover, and many will buy this book and be forever changed by Jackie and her fitness knowledge. After reading the article I started thinking about the "F" word, how I use it and how I hear it used around me. Back in the day the word use to make me uncomfortable, so much I would feel sick at the sound of hearing it. No one wants to be called names, especially the "F" word. The "F" word is like an elephant in the room ... everybody sees it, everybody is thinking it, and some may even say it. Some how over the years I suppose I've embraced the word to the point it doesn't bother me. Maybe I've become desensitized by it, maybe I see it for it is, or maybe it's just always "there."

I will admit, I jokingly use that word when I talk about myself, and I probably shouldn't do that, but I'm fat so I can, right? Probably not, but it comes with the territory of being the funny, fat girl I suppose. But does the fact that I use that word referring to myself reflect poorly on me? Some say it might, but I never viewed it like that because that's what I do but maybe I should start viewing it as a poor reflection on my views of myself. The way I talk about myself sometimes I would never talk to a best friend, my sister, or family member like that.

From this point on I vow not to use the "F" word when I talk about myself, because in all honesty I don't view myself as that word and the negative connotations that can come with it. So good bye fat...HELLO phat :)

The Evolution of Weight Loss (and gain)

2010-06-17T03:57:00.000-07:00

I've been slacking lately...not only on my blogging, and my accountability, but on my healthy eating. No excuse I know because slacking is partly the cause of my demise a year ago. My workouts lately have been sporadic. I've only been averaging three workouts a week versus the six that I was doing, and with summer travel and meetings it is getting harder to fit it in. I find myself consuming empty calories of coffee and an occasional carbonated beverage, which I haven't drank consistently in over a year, but somehow over the past month they've crept their sneaky way back into my life. I know that this is just a tiny, minuet bump in the road, but I don't feel very good about it. How can the one thing that I have control over suddenly go out of control? While I encourage those on their wellness journey, I sometimes forget that I too need to encourage myself, and keep up with all the blood, sweat and tears that got me to this very point.

So in order to remind myself that, baby, I've come along way I would like to present to you the Evolution of Weight Loss and Weight Gain (aka The Evolution from fat to phat). This starts all the way back my first summer in Cleveland in 2008 up to May 2010. As you can see my butt wasn't the only thing that was expanding...look at that hair!?

To my readers, supporters and fellow weight loss aficionados:

How do you fit in your healthy life style when life goes hay wire? What are your secrets to your success?

The Exception to the Rule

2010-06-15T11:13:00.000-07:00

Rules: some say they were meant to be broken, others follow them religiously and some are the "exception" to it. When it comes to weight loss is there the exception to the rule? This all started a couple weeks ago when I was watching "he's just not that into you" and I started thinking about exceptions to rules. For example, you can wear white except for white shoes after Labor Day; The 'i before e' except when after 'c' rule when writing; at my job we have casual Fridays for the three summer months where you can wear what you wear during the week with the exception that you can wear khaki's but you can't wear anything "casual" (no jeans, no tank tops, no casual business shorts...); when you think about all the exceptions to rules you might as well have a handbook about them and throw colored little flags if you are causing any offense to them.

I started thinking about all the rules that "are a given" when losing weight:

Eat fruits and veggies
8 glasses of water a day
Adding more fiber to your diet
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day for three days
Wheat and whole grains
Limited quantities of complex sugars and carbs
Incorporating additional protein to diet
Eliminating soda beverages or replacing them with "diet" ones
Limiting sodium and fat intake
Limit intake of alcohol
Portion control and moderation

I started thinking of all the "exceptions to the rules" to losing weight:

Food restriction
Dietary supplements
Diet/Fad programs
Water pills and Laxatives
Over-excessive Steam Room/Sauna
Over-excessive Exercise
Certain kinds of Cosmetic Surgery

I've come to the conclusion that when it comes to weight loss there are no exceptions to the rule. The rule is to eat right, exercise, portion control and moderation. Unfortunately, I've learned my lessons the hard way...more than once, but no more I say! I use to think there were exceptions to the rules of losing weight; and it got me back to where I was and then some. Not proud of it, but I learned from it, and I hope to educate others about the dangers of the exceptions because of the unhealthy consequences that happen from our weight loss choices.

Lesson Learned: Work smarter not harder is what someone told me once; and I plan to apply this to my weight loss goals but I will have to work hard to get to them. It's not how I get there, but the journey that I embark on when I finally do get there!

Half-Way to the Finish Line!

2010-05-12T06:32:00.000-07:00

So I haven't updated this thing in a week...but I have to tell all my fans, readers and supporters! I'M DOWN 50 LBS.! More to come...I should probably get back to work or something...

Girl Get Yo Mind Right!?

2010-05-03T21:10:00.000-07:00

Ahhh...Monday...how I don't love thee, let me count the ways...Why are Mondays one of the most dreaded days of the week? What if Monday's were actually Friday's and Friday's were Monday's? There's the deep thought for the day. I dread Monday's for two reasons: a) 9:00 a.m. meetings and b) Monday's usually set the tone for the week. Right now, it's hot in the dungeon (I work in a basement of a 151 year old building that doesn't have central air), and my ion standing fan has just bit the dust. Guess this is what it was like 151 years ago, minus the computer, CS5, scanner and printer ... and overhead lighting ... email ... 9:00 a.m. meetings ... man they had it made back then. All they had to worry about was who was churning the butter and piano lessons.

This week I think will be a breaking point for me. I'm six pounds away from losing 50 pounds. In retrospect I'm six pounds away from losing a 1st/2nd grader. That's mind to the blown. That sounds kind of sci-fi like I'm The Fly or The Blob...some crazy scientific experiment that went haywire. Part of me KNOWS I'm going to take it to the house and drop these six pounds like Ali vs. Foreman. But there is a part of me that is uncertain of it. Part of me is ready for what is about to come after this half-way point and part of me is scared sh*tless. I know that sounds stupid right? I should be ecstatic that I've lost as much as I have over the last 7-8 months. While I am happy with progress, I'm still not satisfied with it to a degree. I feel like I've not lost enough over the last 7-8 months. While I've maintained over the holidays, and have minor 3 or 4 pound set backs, maybe I'm still salty at myself for having to go through this all over again and then some. Maybe I'm not ready to let go of who "Emilie" use to be and who she has become throughout this process. It's not like I'm this drastically different person. I'm still the same ol' G as the kids would say. It's easy to get stuck in that "safe" place, but I've never been one to just settle or play it safe (OK to a degree like when it comes to diving off cliffs or something), and I think going through this journey a second time has really showed me that settling is never an option. I should always want better for myself, and by darn it I'm worth it! We are all worth the opportunity for something better!

So this week it's on like donkey kong. Mario vs. Luigi. Nas vs. Jay-Z. Obama vs. Palin. East vs. West...you get the picture. I've signed up for a month of fitness kickboxing and added an additional weight circuit to my normal workout. It's time to do work son!!! The big five-ohhh won't know what hit it!

By the way...fitness kickboxing was the best $50 I've ever spent. It was intense but hitting and kicking that punching bag and imagining certain people's faces on it...PRICELESS! It was loaded with kicks, punches, ab work, weight work and a ton of cardio. I highly recommend it if you are looking to add a roundhouse workout to the mix. I can only imagine what I'm going to feel like in the morning (because on top of 45 minutes of kickboxing I did an hour of cardio before that...crazy...I think so). Sorry Chuck Norris...you ain't got nothing on E NERL!

In the ring, right corner...weighing in at...(wait don't ask a lady that!)...is THE BEAST OF THE EAST!
The challenger ... holdin' on to water, fat and free radicals is ... 6 pounds from 50!

READY...LETS GET IT ON! LET'S FIGHT FAT!
(ding, ding!)

My Humps...My Humps...My Lovely Lady Lumps

2010-04-30T03:50:00.000-07:00

I'm sure there are some ladies out there that can agree with me on this, but why do our lovely lady lumps always get in the way! Seriously, sometimes trying to do crunches or even push ups is like trying to bench press bowling or boccie balls on your chest. I'm lucky when I'm on the treadmill that I don't leave the gym with a black eye. Thick Chick was telling me she knows people that wear like three sports bras to work out in. That's like a human breast band aid. I mean, three sports bras? Really? Is that necessary? So I took the liberty of snapping the snap with one hand and doing some research on some over the shoulder boulder holders. My good friends over at sparkpeople.com had these things to say when it comes getting the proper sports bra.

Studies have shown that between 70% and 80% of women are wearing the wrong size sports bra, and therefore, they may not be getting the benefits of support and comfort from their fitness wardrobe. Keep in mind most department stores will do a fitting for you (or your boyfriend, hubby, or significant probably wouldn't mind subbing in to help with the measurement either.). But if modesty is a concern, you can take your own measurements before leaving home. Measuring can save you lots of time and aggravation when choosing the right bra.

Take your own measurements

Use a tailor’s tape or cloth measuring tape when taking your measurements.
Stand up straight, preferably in front of a mirror.
Wear a normal (non-padded) bra, not a sports bra, when taking your measurements.
Find your bust measurement. Measure the fullest part of your chest by loosely wrapping the tape measure around your chest, making sure the tape is straight in the back and front. Once you get a number, round to the nearest whole number to get your bust measurement. (For example, if your bust measured 38.5 inches, round that up to 39 inches.)
Find your band measurement. Measure your ribcage just under your breasts, making sure the tape is snug (not tight) and not lower in the back than in the front. To get obtain your band measurement, take the actual number of your ribcage measurement and add 3 inches. If this number is odd, you need to add 1 inch to make it an even number. (For example, if your band measured 32 inches, you'd add 3 to get 35 inches; because it's an odd number, you'd add a 1 to get 36 inches.)
Find your cup size. Subtract your band measurement (step 5) from your bust measurement (step 4). Use the chart below to determine which letter is your cup size. (Using the same example above, you'd subtract 39-36 to get 3 inches, which is a C cup, according to the chart.)

Types of Sports Bras

Compression Sports Bras (the one piece style that you pull on over your head) are by far the most popular sports bra construction. This bra compresses both breasts against your chest allowing for minimal or no-bounce movement. These bras are generally a pullover style without fasteners. This style is most suited for women with small to medium sized breasts (A-B cups). These tend to come in general sizes, such as small, medium and large vs. band/cup sizes. Most major manufacturers, including Champion, Moving Comfort, Under Armour, Reebok and Nike, carry a wide variety of compression sports bras from which to choose.
Encapsulated or Natural-Shaping Sports Bras are best suited for larger breasted women, usually a C-cup or larger. These bras look more like a normal bra with fasteners in the front or back, and may come with or without the underwire. This style encapsulates each breast in an individual cup instead of compressing both breasts together as in the previous example. The encapsulated sports bra is the best choice for larger-breasted women (C-cup and up) or plus sized women. One of the most popular manufacturers of this style is Enell. Their bras have received rave reviews from women who require greater support and control. But other manufacturers, including Moving Comfort and CW-X, also provide a nice selection in these sizes.
Compression/Encapsulation Sports Bras are a combination of the previous two bras. They encapsulate each breast and compress the breast tissue against the chest. They can be pulled over the head or closed with fasteners. This style is ideal for women with medium to large breasts, usually C through DD cups.

Now you probably have a good idea about the construction style that is best for you. Now comes the fun part—considering the individual features (including colors, styles and design details) of your sports bra. While fit should always trump style, here are some construction details to look for:
Moisture-wicking fabrics, such as Dri-FIT and CoolMax, pull sweat away from your skin to help keep you cool and dry (and minimize chafing). Avoid all-cotton bras—especially if you sweat heavily or exercise in hot, humid conditions—because this fabric tends to remain wet and saturated even after your workout is over.
Minimal seams or covered seams, especially in the cups, to prevent chafing and irritation. Every seam on a sports bra could rub against your skin, so the fewer seams the better.

Wide straps that do not dig into your shoulders. Many women, especially runners, prefer the popular razorback style since this design allows for greater arm movement and provides greater support. However, a traditional scoop style is a readily available alternative for women who find the razorback style uncomfortable.

A snug fit around the rib cage allows for minimal movement, but the band should not be so snug as to keep you from getting good lung expansion during your activity. Your sports bra should feel snug—not tight.

Deep armholes to minimize chafing yet allow for good range of motion.

Finding the Right Fit

It is very important to try on a sports bra before you buy it. Most experts recommend that you take a minimum of three sports bras with you when heading to the fitting room. You should bring the size you measured, along with the next size up and the next size down. Because sizes can vary between manufacturers, it is important to try on many different brands and styles in order to find the optimal fit. You know you've got the right size, style and fit when:

The straps fit snug against the skin, but aren't so tight that they dig in to your shoulders. You should be able to slide two fingers underneath the straps—from the front to the back of the straps with ease.

The band lies snug and flat against around the front, sides, and back of your ribcage. It should not ride up. You should be able to slide one finger easily under the band.

Your breasts fit within the cups. In other words, any bulging from the top or sides is an indication that the cup size is too small.

The fabric does not "gather" in the cup, especially on top. Excess fabric bunches are usually an indication that the cup is too big and will not provide adequate support and comfort. This can also cause chafing during activity.

Once you've tried on a bra that fits your requirements, test it out in the fitting room! Do some movement drills such as jumping jacks, running in place, and raising your arms overhead to make certain the bra provides the control, support, and comfort you are looking for without rubbing you the wrong way. But remember, a good sports bra will fit more snugly than a regular bra—just not so snug that you cannot get one finger under the band and slide it easily.

While most experts suggest trying a sports bra on for the first time, some women may have a difficult time finding their true size on the store rack. Luckily, there are a few Websites to guide you along. Many of the sites provide instructions for how to find the right bra for you as well as customer service phone numbers you can call for assistance. The following sites provide a wide variety of sport bra apparel for women of all shapes and sizes:

HerRoom - www.herroom.com

Just My Size - www.JMS.com
title nine - www.titlenine.com
Road Runner Sports - RoadRunnerSports.com

Old Navy - www.oldnavy.com

Weight Loss Expectations + Reality + Roadblocks + Detours = Frustrations

2010-04-29T21:07:00.000-07:00

It's no secret...weight loss can be an added pain in the arse. What your expectations of what you think you are capable of doing or losing and to what the reality of those expectations are sometimes, well a bit skewed. I went into this thinking I'm going to drop weight like Brody Jenner drops girlfriends, and that's far from the case. While I make healthy food choices and get in a daily workout, I often wonder why the weight isn't dripping off me like diamonds off Liz Taylor. For starters I know I have unrealistic weight loss goals. Thinking that I could drop 100 lbs in less than a year (particularly by my 30th birthday, which is only a month and a half away!), was pretty ambitious (so instead I hope to lose 100 by September 25, the day of the Susan G. Komen Race in Cincinnati). I must've been smoking the peace pipe when I came up with that goal, but I have to take what I can get. Also, watching Biggest Loser doesn't help either. While they are an inspiration to people who are slugging it out with their weight loss journey, losing that much weight at one time puts everyone in a tizzy.

So what should realistic goals be? Anyone, anyone? Bueller, Bueller? And what are good goals to strive for?
Various research bodies—including the American Dietetic Association, the American Heart Association, and the National Institutes of Health, with its national obesity guidelines—recommend aiming for conservative weight loss of 5 percent to 10 percent of your current body weight. Not only is this achievable, overweight and obese people who can lose up to 10 percent of their body weight can see significant improvements in their health risks. For example, the American Heart Association 2006 Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations point out that even modest weight loss of just 5 percent to 10 percent can have a positive impact in diabetes risk and management.

Check out the charts below for examples of what it means to lose 5 percent to 10 percent of your current body weight:

How does this relate to how fast you can drop it like it's hot? How fast can you drop pounds? Most guidelines recommend that you take up to six months to reach a 10 percent weight loss goal. That’s because, even if you can lose it fast, it’s easy to gain back once you go off your program. It’s better to lose a small amount and maintain it, than to lose and gain large amounts yo-yo style. When a person frequently loses and gains, each new dieting attempt takes longer to lose the same amount of weight, and it is more quickly regained. This may be the body’s way of preserving energy during what it senses as an energy-deficient state.

The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend aiming for slow weight loss by eating fewer calories while maintaining an adequate nutrient intake and increasing physical activity. So aim to lose from one-half to two pounds a week—or, more commonly, one to two pounds a week—by reducing calories by 500 to 1,000 per day.

(figures and stats were brought to you by MSN health article)

Until that miracle pill that you can take with an 8 oz. glass of water comes along, keep fightin' the good fit fight with portion control, moderation and exercise!

SHAMELESS PRODUCT PLUG

My fellow blogger, Tiff , over at the 365 Project was talking about Naked Juice's Green Machine and since I had to hit up the grocery store I thought I get a couple and see how naked juice can be. I got the Red Machine and Green Machine (they were on sale 2 for $5!). At first I was kind of skeptical about how they would taste (so far I've only had the Red Machine), and how they fit a pound, yes a pound, of fruit into a 16 oz. bottle! To my surprise, it was very tasty, and filling. I actually supplemented my breakfast with it this morning (Red Machine was 170 calories and 4.5 grams of fat per serving and there are two servings per bottle). The great thing about Naked Juice is that it allows you to get in your fruit and veggie serving for the day. Every bottle has over three servings! So in this case when in Rome...go get naked people!

PHAT SHOUT OUTS
I would like to give a shout out to all my readers! Thanks for the comments and the continuous support! I also want to give a Phat shout out to Jen C.! Jen C. has put me to the challenge! She will match me minute for minute, work out for work out! She's been doing great, so keep up the good work Jen C.!

Fat Tuesday: What's up Chicken Butt?

2010-04-27T06:49:00.000-07:00

Gooooooodddddd Mooooooorrrrrrning Blogggggies!!! Welcome to this edition of Fat Tuesday. I'm fighting Fat Tuesday with a 3 mile jaunt around campus, followed by 15 minutes worth of weights and crunches this morning (this isn't even including my evening workout!). Time to bring back two-a-days. I will admit, I've slacked off the past three days, and while I can blame it on traveling, which I did a impromptu trip to the Queen City, doesn't mean I should've fallen into the deep valley of laziness. While I digress, today is a brand new day, and it's time to saddle up ol' blue and get back up in dis cut as the kids say.

Let's take a look at the latest cluck to hit the coop. KFC's Double Down Sandwich. I don't know if you've seen this monsterwich but it's the big chick in town.

KFC's Double Down Sandwich, an double fisted collection of bacon, cheese and Colonel's Sauce snuggled between two fried chicken "buns." Granted from our friends over at Thirty Five Eight: Politics Done Right's recent article it's not the unhealthiest sandwich but it sure is holding its own right next to the Triple Baconator from Wendy's, Hardee's Thick Burger and Burger King's Whooper with cheese.

Let's take a more in depth look at the Double Down...

KFC Original Recipe® Double Down
540 calories, 32 grams of fat and 1,380 milligrams of sodium

KFC Grilled Double Down
460 calories, 23 grams of fat and 1,430 milligrams of sodium

While both versions aren't as bad as other choices on several menus (some would call this lite!), those 540 calories contain 145 milligrams of cholesterol (more than twice that of the Big Mac and about half of the USDA's daily allowance) - along with 1,380 milligrams of sodium (the USDA recommends no more than 2,400 per day) and 32 grams of fat (65 will keep you slim, says the government). So, for getting only about one-quarter of the calories that you need in a day, you're exhausting about half your budget of "bad stuff".

Who wants to exhaust your food intake budget on this!? Think twice before you bite!

Purrrrfect Zen...

2010-04-26T06:48:00.000-07:00

"I meditate, I do yoga, I chant.. and I still want to smack someone!"

My mom sent me this card, and I found it to be phat girl blog worthy! Thanks Mom!

Happy Monday :)

Have you tried Zumba?

2010-04-21T06:08:00.000-07:00

For the past few weeks, I have been attending Zumba class two times a week. I can't rave enough about it!

I would define Zumba as a type of dance, using Latin inspired moves set to upbeat music. The class uses intervals, pairing certian moves with slower beats to warm you up and then kicking it up a notch using faster music and more difficult combinations.

While you may think you are just jumping around and having a good time, the different steps and combinations target specific areas of the body. The best part is, you may hate doing ab work, but there are moves in every combination that work your abs without you really knowing it. I just took a class last night that apparently targeted arms because my arms are a little sore today, like I lifted weights last night instead of Zumba-ing.

If you are interested in checking out Zumba, visit the official website, http://www.zumba.com/. The website has a list of locations where Zumba is offered. Zumba is a great way to mix up your workout. Try it - I promise you won't be able to stop moving!

These are the days of Phat Girl's life...Before meets After

2010-04-20T21:10:00.000-07:00

OK so I've been thinking (and promising) that I need to show progression pictures. This isn't a full body shot...sorry fellas, I know I'm just a tease...but the next best thing...(no) double chin pictures!

This was me on one of my visits home right after moving to Cleveland...

This is me today, right after I walked 60 minutes on the treadmill,
20 minutes on the elliptical and Level 1 of the 30 Day Shred
(sorry for the crazy eyes...that's what walking for 60 minutes listening to B.E.P's will do to you)

Still have a long ways to go, but so far have come along way :)

Fat Tuesday - GOT BEEF?

2010-04-20T06:33:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the first edition of Fat Tuesday. I will be your hostess today...minus the hurricanes, elaborate parade with beads and king cake! In this edition of Fat Tuesday, brought to you by Eat This, Not That, we are going to delve into the meaty goodness of the good ol' hamburger. Let's take a meaty look at the top 15 worst burgers.

Worst Burger Kids Meal - Burger King Cheeseburger and French Fries (small)
680 calories, 33 g fat (10.5 g saturated, 0.5 g trans), 1,360 mg sodium

Worst Cheeseburger with Everything - Wendy’s Double with Everything and Cheese
700 calories, 40 g fat (17 g saturated, 2 g trans), 1,440 mg sodium

Worst Burger and Fries - In-N-Out Burger Hamburger and French Fries
790 calories, 37 g fat (10 g saturated), 895 mg sodium

Worst Plain Burger - Five Guys Cheeseburger (plain)
840 calories, 55 g fat (22.5 g saturated), 1,050 mg sodium

Worst Double Meat Burger - Whataburger Double Meat Whataburger
870 calories, 49 g fat (18 g saturated, 1 g trans), 1,510 mg sodium

Worst Burger Breed - Carl’s Jr. Six Dollar Burger
890 calories, 54 g fat (20 g saturated, 2 g trans), 2,040 mg sodium

Worst Thick Burger - Hardee’s Original Thickburger (1/3 lb)
910 calories, 64 g fat (21 g saturated), 1,560 mg sodium

Worst Chicken Burger - Red Robin California Chicken Burger
946 calories, 57 g fat, 2,002 mg sodium

Worst Turkey Minis - Ruby Tuesday Turkey Minis (4)
1,058 calories, 58 g fat, 79 g carbohydrates

Trans-Fattest Burger Combo - Jack in the Box Bonus Jack with Small Fries and Small Coke
1,061 calories, 48 g fat (17 g saturated, 5 g trans), 1,609 mg sodium

Worst BBQ Burger - Red Robin Whiskey River BBQ Burger
1,114 calories, 69 g fat, 1,805 mg sodium

Worst "Healthy" Burger - Ruby Tuesday Avocado Turkey Burger
1,130 calories, 68 g fat, 62 g carbohydrates

Worst Fast Food Cheeseburger - Burger King Triple Whopper Sandwich with Cheese and Mayo
1,250 calories, 84 g fat (32 g saturated, 3.5 g trans), 1,600 mg sodium

Worst Mini Burgers - Chili’s Big Mouth Burger Bites (4)
1,580 calories, 97 g fat (28 g saturated), 2,930 mg sodium

Worst Burger in America - Chili’s Smokehouse Bacon Triple Cheese Big Mouth Burger with Jalapeno Ranch Dressing
1,901 calories, 138 g fat (947 g saturated), 4,201 mg sodium

Now what makes most of these beefy beauties "worst" is the fat and sodium content (and for some calories). Keep in mind for a woman who consumes 1,500 calories the recommended fat intake is 50 g, and for a man who consumes 2,500 calories the recommended fat intake is around 70-80 g. As you can see MOST of these burgers are either at or well over the recommended fat intake per day. Even those labeled "turkey" or "healthy" still have red flags that fly high above the pretentious patties! I will admit, ain't no shame in my game, but I have eaten a couple of these monstrous mammoths before. And while they are tantalizing tasty to the taste buds I never knew the evil that lurked below that secret sauce.

When you are thinking about beef for dinner just keep in mind that making simple swaps with sides, condiments, buns and toppings could make a world of difference!

Happy Fat Tuesday!

No Pain ... 4 Pound Weight Gain

2010-04-19T19:25:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I gained back four pounds. UGH! I hate seeing that number go back up on the scale, and even more getting discourage over how much I've busted my butt over the last two weeks only to be given four pounds slapped right back on. I am so close to a 50 pound weight loss I can taste it! Now instead of 5 pounds to lose to 50 I now have 9 pounds to lose to 50! Now I have to bust it twice as hard this week to shed those pesky four pounds. Even though it feels quite the set back (which I shouldn't be crying over but its a low blow), I'm not going to let it get to me. Just means it's a last chance work out every single day this week. Once mother nature makes some weather decisions I'm thinking about picking back up two-a-days with walking. Three miles in the morning, and three in the evening. I've now decided to work in more of an incline with my treadmill walking. Now I go from a 6% incline for 10 minutes, to a 7% incline for 10 minutes and then a 8% incline for 10 minutes, all at varying speeds. Let me tell you...that 8% is brutal. I'm waiting for the treadmill to throw me off of it one day. I bet it gets tired of being walked all over...ha ha...OK bad joke.

Five new goals for the month of May. Let's see if I can keep these goals on track...

Try one new recipe a week - I think this is do-able...Rachel Ray eat your heart out.
Incorporate more strength training into weekly workouts - I suck at this right now. For some reason I'm cardio driven and lack the need for strength training. I need to incorporate this to boost optimal caloric bad ass burning.
No purchasing of goldfish or any other chip like product (unless I have company) - I've come to realize that those damn Goldfish crackers and Baked potato chips are a trigger for what I like to call "one more servingitis." Anything chip related is just a bad news bear for me. All I want to do is eat them till they are all gone. No joke, I totally took down the gigantic milk carton of Goldfish crackers my mom bought me...two weeks ago. Not good, not good...and now I know how I gained back those four pounds.
Eating fruits and veggies twice a day - I'm sure that this is less than what a person should be doing, but I've noticed lately I haven't even been eating enough fruits or veggies a day.
Start a weight loss support group - I keep reading that it's better if you have a work out buddy or a group of people who are in support of your efforts, and while I have friends and family who root me on, I want to do the same for others.

While I've had a minor set back, I'm enjoying the fruits of work out labor by purchasing smaller clothing. Nothing beats the feeling of dropping two to three sizes. I can't wait to buy a pair of Gap jeans...it gives me chills ... just like the premier of the Ricky Martin "La Vida Loca" video... ey papi!

While at the grocery store...
I will never go grocery shopping on a Sunday again...I barely made it out alive let alone with all my fingers and toes. People are ruthless! I about had a throw down with Grandma Jenkins over some 100 calorie Jell-o Pudding cups. That's right...I will fight a Grandma for some pudding cups...pinkies up bitches!

I decided to try out the new Yoplait Smoothie packet. Haven't made it yet, but plan to wake up everyone in my apartment building sometime this week when I hook that bad boy up and serve up some fantastic fruity smoothie sensations! So far reviews have been pretty good about this, but I was disappoint on the price. You only get two servings and it cost damn near $4 bucks.

Also new to the E NERL Pantry is Wheatable Nut Crisps crackers. I have a feeling...that these will be just as addicting as Goldfish crackers. I had some with roasted red pepper hummus the other night...nut crisps take me away!

BETTY'S BUSTY BUDDIES! Walk, Run, Support for a cure!
Update on the Breast Cancer front...many of you know I started this healthy life style change not only for my own general good health, but also to support a very dear cause. For every pound I lost I donate a dollar to the Susan G. Komen Cincinnati foundation. If you are interested in walking, running or supporting this cause please visit.... I would like to give a very special thanks to all my family and friends who have and are supporting this great cause! It means a lot!

Question of the day to my readers...how do overcome minor setbacks? Any strategies?

Who's Bad!?

2010-04-04T07:25:00.000-07:00

I've had one of those weeks were it's a face off between me and my enemy in a dark garage and we are about to rumble into a dark, wet ally way with my extremely tight red leather coat, black tapered pants, white socks with black shoes and a glistening coif of curls. My enemy is something evil...evil yet delicious and totally semi-bad for me...so bad for me I will be guilt ridden for days even though it is "baked". My nemesis...meet baked Cheetos. As of yesterday I vow not to buy these things anymore. I can't have them in the mansion. They beacon to me like a college party beacons to Michael Phelps. I grow weak at the knees when I see that cute cheesy cheetah and his too cool for school sunglasses. No more I say to the crispy, abstracted puffed corn! I don't care if you're baked, delicious and half the fat and calories of regular potato chips.

I've been really slacking on the food journal lately. I need to get back into that. It really helps to see where I'm lacking and what I'm not getting enough of. I'm also trying to think of five different things I can swap to help with my battle of the bulge. The top contenders fighting for the top five spots:

Baked Cheetos (obviously) - I think I'm going to replace this with carrots. They are still orange, maybe not as tasty, but can be paired with a variety of dips (hummus, fat free ranch..) to tantalize the taste buds.

Eating out - I probably go out to eat two to three times a week. Most of the time, and I emphasize "most," I do eat sensible when I go out. But occasionally there is a Mexican restaurant involved and I might as well as say gracias to sensible eating that day. I plan on buying with my amazon gift card the Biggest Loser Calorie Counter book (which came in the mail yesterday!). That way I can make sensible swaps and have the hard facts staring back at me.

Clothing/Jeans - I need to get rid of my old jeans and clothing and get super hot new ones. I'm reluctant because I've had these jeans for the past year and a half and they fit me like a glove...well now they fit like an old, worn out glove. The crotch is down to my knees and I think it's time to retire them. I think it is important to find good jeans that fit so that way I can see and feel the difference of the new vs. the old.

Workout - Even though I think my workout is working out, I think it needs a little sumpin' sumpin'. Next month I'm going to start fitness kickboxing. It's a 45 minute workout which consists of kickboxing on punching bags, light weight training for strength, and calisthenics for conditioning and toning. My plan is to do this three times a week and the other three to four days at the gym doing my usual treadmill, elliptical, stationary bike, weights and 30 day shred routine.

(last but probably not least...)

Cooking - my idea of cooking is throwing a lean frozen meal in the microwave and then dressing it up a little with additional veggies and light toppings. I need to turn up the heat in the kitchen and start making fresh, healthy meals. I just got my copy of the Biggest Loser's "6 Weeks to a Healthier You" in the mail and they have some kick-ass recipes in there that I can't wait to try. It's time to put the frozen meals back in the freezer and start sharpening my Cutco knives! Watch out Emeril!

What are sensible swaps you have made or are making to keep you on the straight and narrow healthy road?

The Point of No Return

2010-03-23T08:39:00.001-07:00

Losing weight was so much easier when I was younger. Oh how I miss my kick-ass metabolism. I got to thinking about this whole life style change process and the fears behind it that fuel me (and others) to keep doing this day in and day out. I've been reading in many of my other "get fit bloggers," talking with others about fears of life style changes and the point of no return that set the wheels of healthiness in motion. As I've learned over the past few months there is a fine line between point of no return and obsession. The point of no return has become my new obsession. How does one not obsess over calories consumed, calories burned, miles walked, steps taken, strides per minute, number of fruit and veggies consumed, good choices versus bad...the list is endless. While my new obsession maybe a healthy one, it can become unhealthy. Right now I can honestly say I'm bordering a healthy yet unhealthy obsession with the healthy life style change.

I can say without a shadow of a doubt that my point of no return was the horrid scary number that I saw on the scale, and not to mention that I was pre-diabetic...two things that put the fear of God in me (or that 5th grade nun I had as a teacher in elementary school). I know that pounds aren't going to melt off over night no matter how hard I work out, nor will any amount over 8 glasses of water help speed the need to rid calories, but why can't I stop thinking about pushing myself even harder than I am. Is it the competitive side of me vs. me coming out? Is it the "number" I'm focusing on too much? I'm seriously trying to wrap my shrinking head around it, and all the while still trying to keep my eye on the prize (which by the way is NOT a Reese's PB Egg...). Some days are harder than others I will admit, but who doesn't have days when someone in the office doesn't bring in those sugary delights with holes in the middle of them. Who doesn't have days when they are faced with a chocolate mousse shooter from Applebee's and feels the pressure that "well I had a under 550 calorie meal and everyone else can, why can't I?"

At the end of the day it's how you react to "unhealthy" situations and turn them into manageable healthy situations. It's OK to have things in moderation and to have a cheat day, because with out them you are more likely to rob a 7-11, or ransack the Easter candy aisle. Even though a "cheat day" is such a light bulb concept, why do I still feel bad doing it! It's like getting caught stealing condiments from a fast food joint. As one of my fellow fit bloggers Jack Sh*t, Gettin' Fit said this whole process is mental, and if we can get that under control, the power of weight loss is ours (btw, check his mind games to ponder on successfully dropping some lbs!).

READERS...What is your "point of no return?" How do you stay focused and motivated in your journey to a healthier lifestyle?

Break-ups to Make-ups

2010-03-16T21:29:00.001-07:00

Well me and my current love interest, the Treadmill, decided to take a break from each other for a few days. I think he was feeling that I wasn't giving it all that I had, and I felt he was pushing me too hard. So we took a couple days to get our bearings back, think things through, and we both realized, in the words of Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock that "it takes two to make a thing go right...it takes two to make it out of site." Honestly, I'm glad we are back together...he brings the best out of me, and though some days I love to hate him and his calories per hour, he pushes me on word and up word at an incline of 7.0%, in the end he has my best interest at heart (literally). I'm happy to say that I've reached one of my goals...that is I can walk a mile in 17 minutes at a 3.5 mph.

GIRL SCOUT COOKIES ARE THE DEVIL

Not only do I have to be worried about being attacked by Reese's Eggs, Peeps and the Cadbury Bunny, but I have to see those cute little girl scouts with puppy dog eyes asking me to buy their devilishly good treats so they can win a iPod at the front of the grocery store. My neighbor informed me to stay away from the grocery store because they were representing...in numbers...of cookies and brownies that is. All last week that's all I had visions of dancing in my head was boxes of Somoas, Peanut Butter Patties and Thin Mints. You'll be happy to know that I didn't fall trap to the sad puppy dog eyes and the delectably coconut and chocolate drizzled delicacies. I plan on trying to devise a plan to get into the grocery store by a secret co-op mission that doesn't include walking by that table. If I do me and some Shortbreads will Do-Si-Do.

SUBLIMINAL FORTUNES...what does it all mean?

On Sunday, I was paying for my Saturday night of fun at the Irish American Club of the East Side of Cleveland. Saturday night alone I blew my work out on Saturday...but it was well worth it. Then on Sunday I paid the price for the Irish fun I had on Saturday. On Sunday, I decided I'd get some Chinese food. I haven't had this for like a year...and well to be honest, Sunday's are hard days for me. Sunday's are usually spent with family, and since I live about 4.5 hours away from mine, I usually spend my Sundays doing miscellaneous things and working out. Any who, I digress...when I got back to the Mansion I decided to see what my fortune was, and over the past few weeks I've had a lot to think about and reevaluate in different aspects of my life ... but what this tiny high-fructose cookie had in store was definitely a subliminal message (that about 8,000 other people probably got too) and that was "Believe it can be done." I know it's foolish to look for answers in fortune cookies, and not that this was an answer I was looking for, but more something I needed to see and be reminded of. For all those reading going through hard times or needing that extra push just remember "Believe it can be done!"

SHAKE WHAT YOUR MAMA GAVE YA

Songs to make part of your next work-out routine:

La Roux - Bulletproof (Foamo Dubstep Remix)

Lady GaGa feat. Beyonce - Telephone (Crooker's Remix)
Ludacris - Bad Chick

Black Eyed Peas - Rock that Body

T.I. - I'm Back

Jay-Z - On to the Next

Three-Six-Mafia feat. Sean Kingston - Feel It

Pitbull feat. Akon - Shut it Down

Flo ri da feat. Nelly Furtado - Jump

What songs do you listen to to get that workout going?

The Weekend

2010-03-07T18:17:00.000-08:00

I had a kick ass weekend and can't believe it is already coming to an end. I hate Mondays. I never despise Mondays more than I do now. I don't know if it's because I'm getting older and I know I have PLENTY of Mondays left in my working life, or if it's the 9 a.m. meetings I have every Monday, or if it's the fact that I have to face that wretched bitch of a scale to see what havoc ended up on my thighs from the oh sweet treats from Lil Italy. But none the less I'm already coming on with a case of the Mondays.

Lets reminisce for a minute shall we? I had one of the best weekends ever so far for 2010. One of my bestys came in town, and we had a ball. It was nice to have a little piece of home for a couple days I must say. Friday night we chilled at the Mansion, ordered pizza and caught up over the past couple of weeks. Saturday we got up, ate some diet pop cake (recipe and review below) and got ready. We did what every girl on a girl's weekend must do...we got beautified. We decided to go over to Regency Beauty Institute and get our nails and brows done. As always nothing but shenanigans ensued as we had supervised students training in cosmetology working on our precious piggies. Overall I had a great experience, and not to mention we were helping out someone in their dream of becoming the next Sheer Genius. Heightened levels of fear began to overcome us as we were getting closer to the brow portion of our Regency experience. But we were relieved to find out that a certified educator of cosmetology was going to shape our brows. Watch out ANTM...we are back...and the runway ain't ready for this! Grrrr...

After spending 2 hours at the beauty institute we mozied on down to Coventry for an early supper at Winking Lizard, followed by drooling at all the delectable pastries in Lil Italy. Then we headed to Beachwood Mall for a little shopping with our final stop at Harry Buffalo for a night cap. It was really nice to have a piece of home for the weekend. I haven't been back to Cincinnati since the end of December. You never realize how much you miss and appreciate your hometown until you've been away from it for some time.

Sunday I decided to get out and enjoy the nice weather with a five mile walk around Painesville and snap some pictures of some of the crown jewels of the town. I was never a picture person up until this year, and I might as well as submit for my paparazzi license. Hopefully over the course of this year I can save for a really sweet ass camera like they use for National Geographic pictures.

DIET POP CAKE REVIEW

As most of you know, I decided to make diet pop cake. You are probably wondering what is in diet pop cake...hence diet pop. All you do is buy cake mix, your choice of diet pop, and fat free cool whip for icing and wha la! Diet pop cake! I used devil's food cake mix and Diet Pepsi. Some recipes say you can use an egg white to help hold the cake together more, but that's optional. I how ever did use an egg white. At first I was pretty skeptical about how this would turn out...seriously, diet pop and cake mix? The verdict...deliciously moist and fluffy! You could taste a hint of the Diet Pepsi, but it wasn't over powering, and the cool whip made a nice frosting! I do advise that if you are making this, it won't last more than a day. The cake did start to dry out after we cut into it. I think the next one I make will be something fruity and I will deck the top out with strawberries for a light, cool springy treat. Nutritional info...roughly 180 calories a slice and under 5 grams of fat!

MARCH GOALS

I probably should start posting my monthly goals on here...I should probably keep them on a piece of paper and cross them off.

Goal 1: Lost 20 pounds for a total weight lose of 50 pounds. I know this is going to be somewhat ambitious, but my goal is to be down another 20 before I visit home in April. Which means I have to lose about 4 to 5 pounds over the course of the next 5 weeks.

Goal 2: Increase veggie and fruit intake by one a day. This will be a huge challenge. I eat a fair enough veggies and fruits during the week but I could really amp that up a bit. My goal this week is to eat at least 5 salads...in the long run, this might be a bad idea...

Goal 3: Step up to Level 2 of the 30 Day Shred. I've gotten so use to Level 1 that I fear what Level 2 will have me do. Level 1 was no walk in the park, but I'm getting into my groove with it. My goal is to alternate Level 1 and 2 every other day. Lord, pass the icy hot...

Goal 4: Take a new class. I've been tossing around the idea of doing kickboxing over the last month. I inquired with a couple karate places. I think I need to start mixing it up some because my attention span is starting to shorten.

Goal 5: Finish Mindless Eating book. I'm terrible when it comes to finishing reading books. I'm bound and determined to finish reading this book. So far it's kept my attention span for 63 pages.

I think five goals is enough to start with. I'm sure I will be adding to this list as the month goes on.

Food...Now and Then

2010-03-04T12:30:00.000-08:00

Over at Allison's blog Doublechinned, she was discussing foods she use to love and foods she now loves. I thought this was a good idea, so I stole her post idea that she stole from someone else.

FIVE FOODS I USE TO LOVE

Doritos - who could resist that crunch...those zesty flavors...and all that...powdered cheese! I must admit...I had a love affair with a triangle...not that kind people...the Doritos kind. Alas, our love has faded into a mere memory. I'm not sad about it...but I'm sure the manufacturer probably is.

Carbonated, caffeinated beverages - I use to start everyday out with a bottle of regular pop. The thought of it now makes my teeth (and kidneys) hurt. I once read that if you replace one 12 oz sugared beverage a day with water you trim 50,000+ calories a year from your diet. I'm lucky if I even drink one diet soda a week...or month now. Empty calories say what?

Fast food - meals of champions, especially when you work crazy hours and are always on the go. I probably use to eat fast food at least two to three times a week. The thought of it makes me want to grab an Activia! I'm not saying I've totally given this up, but I probably only have fast food once a month if that and that's usually if I'm hitting' the road back to the nasti 'nati. My old staples of chicken nuggets and fries are now replaced with grilled chicken wraps and side salads.

Bread - I don't discriminate, I regulate...especially when it came to the carbs. Oh bread...how I loved thee, let me count the ways...garlic, toasted, buttered and jammed...

Ice cream - I think if I was ever reincarnated into anything it would be a connoisseur of ice cream. I would have to say out of the entire realm of all things that are sweetness this is my weakness. Nothing beats a two scoop raspberry chocolate chip dish from Graeters, or a Cookies and Cream chocolate milkshake from UDF. As the hot summer months approach one thing other than staying cool is on my mind...and that's staying cool in moderation!

FIVE FOODS I NOW LOVE

Veggies - who would ever have thunk that soy beans would taste so good? Not me. I remember when my grandmother use to make me eat asparagus...it wasn't going to move off my plate and the only reaction she was going to get out of me was a gag as I tried to force every stalk down. Now I can't get enough of veggies!

Crystal Light - I use to never like this stuff. I use to think it tasted like a lame version of Kool-Aid. I must say, Crystal Light has made some tantalizing changes to their array of powdered 5 calorie goodness and I no longer keep anything BUT this in the Mansion.

Boca burgers - some might consider this a mystery meatless item, but I heart them! Veggie burgers have come a long way, and now with an array of flavors they are better than ever. Viva la Boca burgers!

English Muffins - how can one resist the nooks and crannies? It makes me feel British just thinking about them! Even though they are smaller (and just as filling as two slices of bread), I've started replacing sliced bread with 100 calorie English Muffins. Not only are you cutting carbs, but calories!

Smoothies - I can't live with out my smoothies! Smoothies make great meal supplements when you're in a jam, or trying to get in your fruits and veggies for the day. Smoothies, smoothies all the way!

Wednesday Morning Breakfast...brought to you by VitaTops

2010-03-03T07:21:00.000-08:00

I know you are all anxious to hear how my Deep Chocolate VitaTop breakfast went. At first I was a bit skeptical of this so called delicious vitamin treat...

On first bite I wasn't thrilled. It reminded me of something that my grandmother made me eat at one time or another...you know that "health" food that is suppose to taste bad for you good but it just taste...healthy... and the undertones of oat bran and fiber are more prevalent than the so called "chocolate" goodness that awaits...
Then the more I made my way into the center of the VitaTop I finally got to the chocolate morsels and it hit me why they call this DEEP CHOCOLATE!

Overall...WHO'S THE PHAT GIRL APPROVED! First bite wasn't that great but once you get past the outside the chocolaty center makes up for it. Maybe I will give the other flavors a chance.

DAAAAMMMMMMNNNN!

2010-03-02T19:21:00.000-08:00

Tonight is the first time, in a LOOOONNNNGGGG time that I walked past the mirror and said "DAMN GIRL!" I lost 2 more pounds since last Wednesday making the total to 35 (which I can't believe even after THIS past weekend...USA! USA!). If I can lose 2 more this week I will be a happy camper and right on track to be down 50 by the time I go home to Cincy to visit in April. I've also joined the Reading Rainbow club and now have a library card. Honestly, I haven't had a library card since like the summer of '84 (OK more like 2002). I'm in the midst of reading Mindless Eating and it has opened me up the world of how I use to eat and how easy it is to mindless eat in certain situation. I'm looking forward to getting my psychology food science on.

I plan on getting before and after pictures up this week. Oye vey...before and after pictures. I cringe at the thought, but it's good to see progress. It will be a good reminder of how far I've come in this journey to beat obesity! I just sounded like Oprah...

JEANS...AND NOT THE ONES MY MAMA GAVE ME

So as I observe the world that turns...or the world that doesn't turn as fast as it so happens that the quake rocked the earth so hard it's off it's axis ... I often wonder why plus size clothes makers want to put plus size women in the most obnoxious patterns ever. The last time I checked plus size women need trendy clothing love too...we don't want to look like the "other" Brady Bunch kids. I'm quite peeved I must say...Lane Bryant is discontinuing my FAVORITE jeans. This is like throwing me two big ol' birdies and telling me to suck it! From what I hear they are "re-branding" the line and going back to their original size chart and more "slimmer" fits. Now, I don't know if Lane Bryant, THE plus size powerhouse of clothing for the large and in charge know this, but most women who have junk in the trunk and treasure in the chest don't necessarily want to have to feel like they are wearing wearable bondage. I'm not a "slim" jean type of gal...because if it ain't gettin' over Mt. Everest then it ain't for the rest of us.

HI HO HI HO IT'S OFF TO THE GROCERY STORE WE GO

Why are people always in a hurry at the grocery store? And what the heck is up with Aldi charging people for a cart? I've never paid a quarter to get a cart to go grocery shopping. WTF is the purpose? This was my first experience at Aldi's and I'm not sure how I feel about it yet. While I felt their selection was pretty good for only having off brands, I'm not sure overall how I feel about my shopping experience. I'm still stuck on the quarter for a cart thing...do they really think I'm going to run down Mentor Ave with a grocery cart? I guess anything is possible, but you wouldn't see my sorry ass rollin' down the street with my grocery cart...unless of course I was dared to and there were margarita's involved.

Hungry Girl has been promoting the crap out of VitaTops. I'm eager to try these since they've been promoting them hard core over the past couple of weeks. I got the Deep Chocolate flavor ....get your mind out of the gutter...DON'T even think of going there because I just did...! From what I've read they only have 100 calories, high in fiber and contain 15 minerals, vitamins, soy and oat bran. I will let you know how this goes. Fiber and oat bran don't normally mix well but maybe the fact that it is masked by this Deep Chocolate flavor will help ;)

I was also saddened to see that all the Jell-o Temptations Mousse was sold out! Word must have spread fast or everyone saw my glowing review of this heavenly treat.

So apparently college's have spring break, and ours happened to be this week, which brings sweat to my forehead because I only get to do half my workout in the gym! UGH! Way to set me back LEC! Just when I'm hitting my stride you go and throw a spring break in there, and close the gym at 6 p.m. every day. Looks like I'm doing the 30 day shred extra this week to make up for an hour lost at the gym.

I'm officially four months away from a milestone birthday...the one...the only...the big...THREE-OH! I'm not sure how I feel about turning 30. Everyone is saying 30 is the new 20 and if that's the case then I'm in for a rude awakening! Any other 30 somethings or 30 somethings of yesteryear's have anything to say about this...words of wisdom? Thoughts to live by? Your expertise advice is needed...

Books without Pictures

2010-02-23T11:09:00.000-08:00

I was never a reader. When I was younger I was but the older I get the more I depend on publications that are nothing but pictures. Sad isn't it? Some might be thinking it is the poor eye sight I might of inherited. I got that corrected with Lasik, so all I can chalk it up to is my mild case of adult ADHD with a pinch of laziness. I thought the older I got the more I'd enjoy reading. I don't even enjoy reading the washing instructions on my clothes. I think Communication Law and HTML 1 turned me off to reading. Those two particular classes took me to far away "I don't understand WTF this is saying" world. But times are a changin' and I've decided to once again try to overcome my lack of patience with reading.

As the book turns...
As the page turns, I've decided to give this particular literary goodness a hearty go... Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink, Ph.D. It explores the psychological aspects of overeating to explain why we do in fact consume more than we believe we do. I'm game for expanding my cranium and not my waist line. Apparently this book and it's scientific findings have helped pave the way to a "less is more" campaign with the likes of the 100 calorie packs and the use of taller, etched glasses for alcoholic beverages. I sure hope I can channel some patience and make it through this!

Dropping pounds like Vanilla Ice burning MC's like a pound of bacon
On a lighter bite, I've dropped 3 lbs this week so far! Pretty stoked about that considering I took the weekend off from my work out routine and Wednesday I won't be able to work out because I have a photo shoot to attend to and dinner with a friend. I'm hoping by Friday I can drop 2 more for a total of 5 lbs this week. That would rock because next week I'm sure I will gain it all back when "mother nature" turns it's evil head. I wish guys had to put up with all the "womanly" things us ladies have to. The only thing they get to experience is a sympathy belly used to show what it's like to be pregnant, and I'm sure that's not what it's like to be pregnant.

Gonna make ya sweat till ya bleed!
I'm still plowing through a pretty intense workout of 1 hour on the treadmill, 15 on the elliptical, 20 on the bike, rotating weights and 30 day shred every other day. I'm thinking about taking karate kickboxing class. I need to get ready for 5K season. It's definitely nipping at my heels, and I would like to eventually walk a 17 or less minute mile. I'm almost there! I can walk a mile in 17:38. My treadmill routine is pretty grueling I must say, but it's definitely helping with my stamina. I start out with a 2.5% incline at 3.2 mph for 10 minutes, then move to a 6.0% incline at 2.9 mph, then to a 6.0% incline at 3.2 mph for 10 minutes, then back to 6.0% at 2.9 mph for 10 minutes, then back to a 6.0% at 3.2 mph for 5 minutes and finish it off at a 0% incline at 3.4 mph for 15 minutes. Did you follow all that? The only thing missing is lap around the mulberry bush and a mad dash to grandma's house.

Diet Pop Cake experiment
So next week my friend Candy (minus the suga) will be visiting! I'm so excited I can hardly stand it! I'm planning on making Diet Pop Cake. Has anyone ever made this before? Word on the streets is it is very tasty, moist, low in fat and calories. If you've ever made this give me the 411. I would love some feedback before Cookin' with Phat Girl burns down the kitchen...and the mansion!

I Don't Wanna...

2010-02-18T12:51:00.000-08:00

Honestly, I'm not in the mood for it today - not in the mood to eat healthy and not in the mood for my rigorous work out. For a brief moment today I was swimming in a pool of sugary awesomeness and had to literally throw myself a life preserver. For a week now all I can think about is sweets, and today my prayers were answered. My besty sent me a late valentine's day present :) Oh and you know it was filled with some sweet thangs from the nasti 'nati. There was two busken cookies (which equates to frosted happiness), a 6 pack of Reese Hearts (which I like just like my men...chocolate, rich and delicious!) and Heart Peeps! Well, you already know how this story is going to end ... the busken cookies...gone...Reese Hearts...I ate 2...and now I wish I would've just either had one or the other or just one of either the cookies or the hearts. My body is rejecting itself right now. That's what I get I guess, and I've officially have learned my lesson (for now ;) ) We all have minor set backs, and we all have our days. I guess I can chuck it up to being human.

Since last Thursday I've been going hard core at the gym, working out roughly two hours a day. Yesterday I didn't go. I just felt like I got out of the ring with Mike Tyson, but the exception was my ears were still intact. So I took an off day yesterday, and I want to take another "no gym" pass today, but I can't let myself do that. I know you're wondering if I made it to the gym...well I did the usual routine ... 1 hour on the treadmill, 15 on the elliptical, and 20 on the bike.

Here's proof that I did...

I don't know if it is the winter weather, where I am in my life, the lack of sunshine, the fact that I can't drink at work ... I just can't pinpoint it. I've been reading in many of my fellow weight loss bloggers that they are looking for a change, even beyond the obvious. I'm a notorious change lover. I love change. I welcome it with gift baskets, lean cuisines and open arms. Now I'm starting to wonder how good is too much change? There has to be something wrong when you are constantly changing something, right? Over the last, I'd say 15 years, I would have to say I've had about 50 odd some different hair cuts and colors, have already gone through a career change, moved to a different city, experienced the quarter life crisis, am ready for another career change, and some how still don't feel satisfied with life. I haven't experienced that Jerry McGuire "complete me" moment. It's like I have this urge, this burning (and no not THAT one), to try every single thing on the planet. Like one day I will want to start a village and the next open my own shop. I'm starting to think I have ADHD for adults.

Check it out...

So tonight on campus in celebration of BHM (black history month) I heard the sweet pipes of Darnell Levine. He has one of the best voices I've heard in a long time, and the fact that he got to play in a venue like Morley was icing on the lyrical cake. Levine did a musical journey through the decades. His rendition of Stevie Wonder's My Cherie Amour and Seal's Kiss from a Rose was phenomenal. This is someone you will want to keep your eye on...and well, he's easy on the eyes so it's not that hard too.

Damn you Dolly (and not the Madison kind)!

2010-02-10T09:01:00.000-08:00

I wish they never ever tried cloning. And why try it on a sheep first? Why not use me? As long as I get a paid for participating in a break-through science measure I don't mind. Plus, I could put my clone to work. I bet scientist can clone people out of play dough now. If God can make people out of clay and earth elements, then I know scientist can make people out of play dough and touch of glitter.

I can't ever say it enough, there isn't enough time in the day (seriously...time!). I have so much I want to accomplish in 365 days that there is no way I can accomplish what I want in that time frame...I need a new word for time. It's like it is haunting this blog entry from the last one.

GOT LENT?

Oh and did you know...LENT is next Wednesday! A big WTF for that! It crept up on me like Mike "The Situation" in Karma on the Jersey Shore. I'm no where ready for Lent. I have no idea what I want to give up, especially since I gave up everything that is remotely tasty (just kidding, though some days it feels like it...just being honest!). Last year I didn't give up anything. Instead I vowed to do one nice thing a day (depending on the person...again just kidding...but not really). It worked out OK, but when you've been participating in Lent for 20 odd some years of your life what else can you do!? What are you giving up for Lent (if you practice)? Thoughts, comments and concerns are welcomed...

Wha Wha...
So yesterday I was a slacker and didn't work out. I know, I know, BUT it was mist snowing like mad outside, and I didn't want to play Monster Truck trying to get my car out of the Mansion driveway. Our drive way is what I like to call a little log flume minus the splash going down the hill.

BUT today on the other hand was last chance work out ENERL style. 1 hour on the treadmill (420 calories burned), 15 minutes on the elliptical (120 calories burned), 20 minutes on the stationary bike (130 calories burned), 20 minutes of various weight machines (not sure what I should assume calories burned is), and lastly 30 Day Shred DVD for 20 minutes (safely say 200 calories burned). Total calories burned today was probably near 900-1000. I know, ridiculous right, but 5K season is right around the corner. It's time to get the party started!

As far as the soup de jour today...

Breakfast: Bowl of honey nut Cheerios w/ skim milk

Lunch: 2 boca burgers (120 calories each) with organic mustard (50) and ketchup (15) and a cheese slice (cut in half; 80); 15 baked lays chips (140) and a glass of water

Snack: Banana (100) and a granola bar (90) and a bottled water

Dinner: It's like 9:17, so I will probably grab a bowl of cereal.

Work Hard. Work Out Harder.

2010-02-08T20:11:00.000-08:00

I've been hitting the gym like it's nobody's biznass, and I think it is finally paying off! I weighed myself tonight after a rigorous work out of 1 hour on the treadmill (burned 417 calories), 15 minutes on the elliptical (burned 125 calories), 20 minutes on the stationary bike (burned 125 calories) and 20 minutes of Level 1 of the 30 Day Shred (I'm going to assume at least 100, probably more calories). Total calories burned 800 (give or take a few).

I got on the scale, and I'm now 2 pounds away from losing 30 pounds! I know it's early in the week and things may fluctuate, but I'm so ecstatic. I think I'm finally over this plateau I've been on for weeks now. Over Christmas I kept it steady and didn't gain nor lose any, but just maintained, which is a miracle in itself if you ask me.

As I'm going through this healthy life style transformation, part of myself is pissed that this is the second time I'm losing all this weight ... the first time I lost a lot of weight (I lost 70 pounds) was when I was 14 years old going into the 9th grade. I dropped 70 pounds in 6 months. Yeah mind blowing isn't it. At 14, I was years beyond my age, and yet I digressed (and then some, which I'm not proud of believe me). I can put the blame on everything under the sun, but the only person I can blame is myself. What can I say ... life happened, and boy did it happen. When you're 14 the only things you should worry about is what you are wearing to the mall on Friday night, who may ask you to dance at the middle school dance and whether or not the Aqua Net is going to hold your mile high bangs. BUT I was worried about counting calories, dropping 5 pounds a week, running a steady mile and purchasing the new MTV Party-to-Go for getting down and dirty on my stepper. Seriously ... no joke.

I have learned valuable lessons from the first time to now the second round. Eat right, exercise, portion control and moderation. These friendly reminders often get tossed to the side when consumed by "the number." The number is what haunts every person losing weight, and as I know all too well, the number is the only thing to focus on, which I soon became obsessed with. I don't want to do that again. Obsessing over the number caused me to lose sight of what it's all about, and caused unhealthy habits of binging, binge exercising and not eating for weeks which in essence took a toll on me and my body. The thought of doing that makes me sick to my stomach, but it's the reality of what young girls do to get to "that number."

I've learned that you have to make the time. Time is a funny thing. It's always there but why does it feel like it's never on your side? Everything takes time ... damn that time! It gets you every time ... okay 'nuff with time, because now it's time to sign off. But not before a small recap of what was on the menu today...

Breakfast
Small banana (100 calories) and a Special K protein shake (190 calories)
A bottle of water

Lunch
Pita Nachos with chicken, tomato's, garlic spread and cheese (these were probably arty clogging and totally bad for me, but I couldn't resist. My cheat for the week)
Two glasses of tea with sweetener

Snack
60 calorie Jello Mousse
A bottle of water
Hot tea (with a splash of skim, sweetener and a dash of honey)

Dinner
Wasn't hungry for dinner so skipped it (bad I know, especially after the sermon I just gave)

Happy New Year!

2010-01-11T19:00:00.000-08:00

A new year is upon us, and with every new year comes a brand new (or recycled) batch of resolutions. My first resolution is to update this thing regularly. I've been slackin' on my bloggin' so all apologies to my lovely readers.

Last year ended kinda rough, and this new year started kinda rough. Maybe I'm due for some luck here in the near future. Putting all negatives aside, as I vow to be annoyingly positive this year, I am, however looking forward to the new endeavors that are on the horizon. If you think I mean new endeavors as the hot bartender on girls night you're sorely mistaken, though while tempting and on the back burner, I'm ready to close some chapters that have been open for a long time. One being my Graphic Design degree. I'm trying to find an on-line campus that has a decent program and won't send me into Chapter 11. If you know of any, please shoot them my way, as I'm looking to get my schooling on and finish this second degree for good!

Secondly, I've been pretty faithful to the 30 day shred DVD I got. I've only been at it for two weeks and I play on staying on level one for another two weeks. I hope by the end of this week I can get to the 30 pound mark. I'm four pounds away! It's killing me! I've also decided to try the Special K diet for two weeks. I pretty much don't eat that much anyways but I don't know how one will ever stay full on this diet. What better way than to find out than to try it. Spectators beware...keep your popcorn and your hot dogs to yourself!

And now we've come to one of my favorite portions of my blog...

SHAMELESS PRODUCT PLUGS

So in my quest to make dieting, or I should say healthy life style eating more appetizing, I have found the following that I quite enjoy...

Jello Mousse Temptations - these things are deadly. 60 calories and sugar free. Indulge I say...Indulge.

Special K multi-grain crackers - love these. sweet and salty, and delicious with hummus. mmmm...hummus.

FREE Biggest Loser and Subway work out mix - great music for a awesome workout. Artists include Danity Kane, Flo rid a, Leona Lewis and many more. Click here for the download!

Applebee's under 550 menu - OMG! Loved the Grilled Dijon Chicken and Portobellos. The veggies were flavorful and the chicken was cooked perfect and was juicy! On a scale of 1 to 10 I give it a 11.

Well I vow to update daily. I know I know I've been MIA on here for some time, but in my commitment to this weight loss journey is to document every step, and while I've missed documenting two months of those steps, I'm back on my blog game. Game face on...check ... typing speed 40 wpm ...check ... water bottle in hand ... check. Watch out...SHE'S BACK!!!

Healthful Hints to Help Navigate the Holidays

2009-11-24T06:29:00.000-08:00

My mom sent this to me and I thought I'd share the Mama Nerl lovin'. Thanks Mom!

Surviving and Enjoying the Holiday Buffet without Gaining Weight

Yes it is possible to enjoy the holiday - to have your cake and eat it too. It is important to keep in mind to use a small plate and eat slowly, while eating only the foods that you want to eat. As well, Brian Wansink, Author of Mindless Eating, suggests that you keep in mind the "Rule of Two." This rule says you can have anything you want at the buffet, but you are not allowed to have more than 2 items on your plate at one time. He claims that his works so well because:

You tend to take the two types of food you want most. People who love desserts don't work their way up to desserts. They'll start with the desserts and then stop.
You tend to not overfill your plate. Putting only two things on our plate helps keep our serving sizes somewhat small because we psychologically don't want to overload on a particular item.
You tend not to go back more than two times. In one study they did on the "Rule of Two," 83 percent of people only made one or two additional returns to the buffet.

The Top 10 Tips for Eating Healthy During the Holiday Season

Focus on weight maintenance not weight loss during this time. Maintaining your current weight during the holidays is a big enough challenge so don't stress yourself by trying to lose weight instead.

Do not plan on dieting after the New Year because then you wind up eating everything in sight and not setting restrictions. Wait until after the New Year to plan a diet plan for you, without setting restrictions and depriving yourself of certain items you like.

it is important to keep in mind to be physically active everyday to relieve stress, regulate appetite, as well as burning extra calories during the holiday season.

Remember to eat a light snack before going to a holiday party. It is important not to starve yourself because then you will only wind up eating more at the party.

Make a plan to think about where you will be and who you will be with as well as the food available for you. Once you have planned for the social event, it will be much easier to deal with a difficult social eating situation if you encounter one.

And as mentioned above, take steps to avoid recreational eating by consciously making a plate of food that you really want and eat slowly.

Keep in mind to trim back the trimmings when it comes to food. To cut calories, be sure to go light on the nuts, cheese, gravy and butter. It is important to remember that you want to leave the party leaving satisfied, not stuffed.

When it comes to choosing a drink, choose wisely. Some alcoholic beverages can have between 150-450 calories per glass. Choose to have 1 to 2 light alcoholic beverages and then make water or sparkling water with a lemon. Watch out for the eggnog that can have almost 350 calories for 1 cup!

Always keep in mind to have fun and enjoy family and friends. Share laughter and cheer, reminiscing about the years passed. Relax and enjoy the holiday season.

Lastly, maintain perspective. If you happen to overeat one day, don't feel guilty. Just go back to your normal eating habits the next day.

Monday's are for Sucka's

2009-11-23T20:28:00.000-08:00

So needless to say this Monday sucked a big one. If you are friends with me on facebook you may have gotten a chuckle from my status update. Chuck Norris would be proud. A swift roundhouse to the face will shut anyone up! Normally I don't talk shop on here, but I can't help it today. I'm kinda having a Jerry Maguire "Mission Statement" kind of day. I will apologize before hand for giving you a one way ticket to negative town with this posting.

It was my department's first day with out our fearless leader, and as the stars and planets align, and as the forces that be, I'm the only person in the PR and MKT department with seniority (mind you, I've only been at my current job for a year and eight months, at least that is what linkedin.com tells me based on my profile). I honestly can't believe I've lasted in Cleveland that long. I've always wanted to move to a different city in a Whitney from "The City" type of way and make it big and become a bad ass designer. Well in some way I guess I have made a design dent in this so called thing called work and well, I guess I can go on the record and say I'm kinda a big deal ... at least in Painesville, Ohio. I find it amazing how much can change in a year, especially with in a organization. I often wonder how long it takes an established organization to realize that the decisions that they make create a domino effect that has lasting impressions on it, not only with the people that work for it, but the people it serves, it's identity, and mission.

I had a meeting today, ok like five meetings today, but my last one of the day really put a sour taste in my mouth ... an no I wasn't eating sour patch kids during it so we can rule that out as a factor. So, I'm in this meeting, go over the project at hand, changes, concerns, time lines, blah, blah, blah. Well to make a long story short, I have tomorrow off, and the lady heading up the project was concerned I wasn't going to be checking my email and forwarding the proper information on to the outside designer if she got it to me by tomorrow, which I will be on the road most of the day. She said she would be checking her email through the holiday because she checks her email all the time. My question is ... when do people stop working? I tried to convey to the lady that I can't guarantee that the printer will even be in service over the holiday ... and why you ask ... BECAUSE IT'S A HOLIDAY AND PEOPLE ARE ENTITLED TO TIME OFF FROM WORKING ON OTHER PEOPLE'S WORK! I love how everyone thinks their project is more important than the next, and that I should sacrifice time with my family and friends, who I sacrificed for a job that is 4.5 hours away from them and only get to see every so often, to do more work for them. Um hello, the last time I checked that is what vacation days and floating holidays are for ... vacation from projects, deadlines, e-mails, questions....

Now I know what it is like to work over the holidays. I'm a veteran of the Broadcasting world and have worked Thanksgiving, New Years and New Years Eve, July 4, Labor Day, Christmas, Christmas Eve, Columbus Day, Grandparent's Day, Mother's Day, Father's day, Flag Day, Pirate Day...the list is endless. I'm no stranger to hard work, putting in a little extra time when needed along with a side of elbow grease, to go above the call of duty with the tasks at hand, but I'm only one person, two hands and eight hours a day. My "concern" with all this is when is enough, enough. When do people step back and look at their life and realize that this thing called work, isn't what life is about.

I will say by far, this year has been a trying year for me. Between finding out my Grandma had breast cancer (and is now in remission), starting up my side business (Emilie Nerl Graphic Design - launches in December 2009), love life woes, work drama, new additions to the family, new friends and reconnecting with old ones, developing a vintageish jewelry line ... I will say there is never a dull moment, and I must commend myself on still standing after all this with a smile on my face (ok maybe one of my eyebrows is raised and I have the "oh no you didn't" head tilt going on).

So this crappy day not only blew out any positivity that I had going this morning but it always reflected in my poor choices of meal options, well at least for dinner it did.

Breakfast

Bowl of honey nut cheerios

Lunch

Everything Bagel with light butter and the remaining pasta from last night's dinner and a glass of Crystal Light ice tea

Snacks

nada

Dinner

Here's the heart attack waiting to happen ... Chicken McNuggets (6 piece) and a medium fry with a coke. Yeah not proud of it, but hey at least they love to see me smile.

Workout

Nada...I worked out Monday thru Sunday (anywhere between an hour and 1.5 hours), and plan on getting up at the ass crack tomorrow to work out before hitting the road. I'm entitled to my off day!

Wishing you a Happy (skinny) Thanksgiving

2009-11-23T19:45:00.000-08:00

I never use to be one to think about not binging on a holiday eating. Why is it that the best things are made on the holidays? Seriously, why can't every day be buckeye day or pumpkin pie day. In the light of this "healthy lifestyle" journey I decided to take my holiday cooking (which by the way is as rare as a blue moon ... or a frozen intact woolly mammoth) to the "skinnier" side of things.

I'm giving this recipe a whirl for Turkey Day, Low-Fat Pumpkin Mousse Pie or Low-Fat FROZEN Pumpkin Mousse Pie. A nice addition to the array of Frich's pumpkin pie, Cheesecake Factory Pumpkin Pie cheesecake, pecan pie and other delectable fruit (or veggie) filled pies adoring the holiday spreads this season.

Low-Fat Pumpkin Mousse pie
(serves 8; ready in 2 hours and 10 minutes including fridge time)

Ingredients

1 READY CRUST Reduced Fat Graham Cracker Pie Crust
2 cups skim milk
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 (1 ounce) package Sugar Free Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 (8 ounce) container fat-free or lite whipped topping, thawed, divided (half for pie mixture the rest for the topping)

Directions

Combine milk, pumpkin, pudding mix and spice in a mixing bowl. Beat with electric mixer until smooth.
Fold in one half of the whipped topping. Spoon into pie rust. Top with remaining whipped topping.
Freeze or refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutritional Info: Calories per serving 199; Total Fat: 7 g; Cholesterol 1 mg.

FROZEN Low-Fat Pumpkin Mousse Pie
(10 servings; 2 hours and 20 minutes including freezing time)

Ingredients

1 READY CRUST Reduced Fat Graham Cracker Pie Crust
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1/3 packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
2 pints (4 cups) frozen low-fat vanilla ice cream, softened

Directions

Combine pumpkin, sugar, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg in a large bowl.
Add ice cream and stir until blended. Spoon the mixture into pie crust.
Freeze until firm or at least 2 hours. Let the pie soften slightly in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Info: Calories per serving 230; 5 grams of fat; 4 mg cholesterol

Cookin' with the Neighbors ... Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs With Edamame and Snow Peas

2009-11-22T15:21:00.000-08:00

My neighbor, Andrea, has introduced me to a whole new world of healthy eating by using a stove (novel idea I know...).

She made this one night before we hit the gym and I have to tell you it's a taste bud pleaser! A healthy, tasty asian inspired meal made with fresh or frozen veggies of your liking. This meal takes less than 30 minutes to cook! Enjoy!

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups long-grain rice

1 1/4 pounds ground chicken (or turkey)

2 scallions, chopped (optional)

(1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional))

2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger

2 tablespoons canola oil

1 cup frozen shelled edamame, thawed

1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce

2 tablespoons brown sugar

baby carrots, sliced in halves or quarters

snow pea pods

Directions

Cook the rice according to the directions on the package.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine chicken or turkey, cilantro, scallions and ginger. Shape into 16 meatballs.

Heat 1 tablespoon of hte oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the meatballs, turning until cooked through, roughly 10 to 12 minutes.

Combine the veggies with meatballs and then in a small bowl mix the soy sauce and brown sugar. Add to skillet, toss the meatballs and veggies and simmer until saus is slightly thickened.

Serve over the rice.

Nutritional Info
Calories per serving: 431; Fat 17 g

Guess Who's Back and 25 LBs less???

2009-11-22T14:58:00.000-08:00

Hello my lovely readers! Sorry I've been MIA for the past few weeks. A lot has been going on, and on the weightloss front, I've loss 25 pounds! I know I've been bad about keeping my food journal on here up-to-date, but I plan to get that back on track this coming week. I've still been watching what I eat and working out like it's a last chance workout every freakin' day. I've just been slammed with work lately. As most, or some of you know, I'm a graphic designer by day, exercise maniac by night. Not that this is any excuse for not keep up with my blogging, but every day I work my normal shift, work out for two hours and then do side work for about five hours. Fun huh?

Anyways, enough shop talk right, lets get down to the nitty gritty. 25 pounds ... I'm still kinda in shock. I hope that when I got home to the nasti 'nati this week before stuffing myself on sweet potato casserole I will have lost another 5 pounds (or maybe even more). I've had a lot of people asking me about my motivation or how I do this day in and day out. Well it's easy, and I'm about to share a secret with all of you ... I do it because I want and need to. Crazy huh? Who would in their right mind would push themselves when their legs are about to collapse when doing a 6% incline on the treadmill for almost 40 minutes, and then proceed to feel like they could puke all over the elliptical after the first 30 minutes. Doesn't that sound like fun!? Well it is for me! I'm making the commitment to myself that being fat is NOT an option anymore.

I was talking to a friend of mine who is about to embark on her own business as a career coach (believe me, she is the best, and I'm not just saying that as a plug for her I mean it!) but she also serves as a 15 year veteran as a weightloss coach for Weight Watchers, and she said something that turned the light bulb on and changed the way I think about a lot of things I want and need to do with my life. She said, that we all have the answer with in ourselves but sometimes we don't know how to get there. It was like Christmas when she said that. You're telling me I spent money on "The Secret" and all along I had the answer!? Pure genius I say. As corny as this is going to sound, it is true ... you can do anything you put your mind to. I don't have any gimmicks, tricks or magic. I eat less and fresh then write it down, work out 1.5 to 2 hours a day, cut out soda and upped the water, cut back on the junk food and allow between 1 to 2 cheats a week. Harmless right? I would be lying if I said I didn't have my days because I do. I have my bad days, but I don't let them get to me because if they do then I become consumed with what I ate and focus on it like a zit on my cheek.

While on this weightloss journey I've rediscovered the girl I use to be ... a motivated, positive, hard working, over-achiever who sees the good in most situations. I can focus on the negative all day, and well to be honest, in the environment and society we live in now that's easy to do because it's in our face like that bite size snicker that sits on our desk, BUT we can choose what to do with it. We can take it for face value and let it get us down, OR take it, run with it, and do something positive in the light of it. New Years is right around the corner folks...

Enough of my yoda smoda talk grasshoppers. I'm back like NKOTB so get ready for some new posts because they are coming at ya like Cleopatra!

It's a Hip-Hop Dance Party!

2009-11-09T16:06:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but there are times when I just don't want to travel to the gym. It's raining...it's cold...I'd rather be at home than working out.

I've decided to still get some cardio in on those lazy days, and I now have a pretty extensive collection of workout DVD's. Pilates, step aerobics, kickboxing...you name it and I have it. I recently purchased Jennifer Gilardi's Dance Off the Inches Hip-Hop Party. I know the name sounds a little cheesy, but this is a great workout DVD. I usually get bored with a workout DVD after watching the second time, and the fact that I can workout to this DVD a few times a week tells me that this is a great workout and DVD.

The workout is all dancing, so if you don't like to bust a move, don't waste your time reading the rest of this post. There is a seperate section of the DVD that teaches the dance moves in detail, so no time is wasted during the actual workout section. The workout is fast paced and makes you sweat. The routines are themed-based: one is a basic hip-hop routine, the second a "sexy" routine and the third is what I like to call the "world rhythms" routine which is full of Latin and Bollywood moves. Also, Jennifer is not one of those really cheesy "You can do it!" workout DVD instructors, so the annoynance level is pretty low. The best thing about this DVD, though, is that it keeps you moving for 45 minutes straight. Wether it's the warmup, the routines, or cool down, you are always moving your body.

So, check it out. You can purchase the DVD on Amazon for less than $10.

Snack Time!

2009-10-13T08:19:00.001-07:00

Fitting in a morning and afternoon snack can be cumbersome. Check these 15 Best and Worst Snacks 100 Calories or Less ideas from my Men's Health "Eat This. Not That." Click here for the scoop!

No Use In Crying Over Spilt Milk

2009-10-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

Or is there ... when you drop the gallon of milk you just bought and it hits the hardwood flooring and busts in the entrance to your apartment. Awesome, right? Not so much, but that's kinda how my week is going. Thank goodness I'm gonna make it to Friday... or BUST!

So I've been pretty hardcore this week with my workouts. Monday I was feeling under the weather, and I hurt myself pretty good over the weekend. I was sober, mind you, and I some how still managed to whip out and do the splits while crossing the street. Some might say it's a talent, I call it a tragedy. Why you ask? Well for those who had to witness it, it was probably pretty funny ... hell I was due for a fall ... but bad for me because I totally scraped the shit out of my knee, pulled several muscles in my right leg, and scraped up a great pair of leather flats that I completely adore. Guess that's another tragedy ... oh darn got to spend money on new flats :)

Tuesday I did 40 minutes of cardio and 15 minutes of weights, and Wednesday I did 35 minutes of cardio and an hour of water aerobics, which by the way, my stamina is increasing and I'm giving the "mature" ladies in the class a run for money. This week we were introduced to flippers. I've never ever worn flippers, not even as a kid, but they do make you swim faster which is pretty cool; downside is insane cramps in your feet. What I like about the class is that every week we are focusing on a different part of the body and using different things to work those different parts. As a kid I didn't really like swim lessons because I could never get pass the intermediate level at the swim club in Fairfax, Ohio because I couldn't get my damn legs to do the breast stroke kick right. But I will say it's paying off in my water aerobics class. Since the College is on fall break the gym closes at 5 today and tomorrow, so I took it to the streets in the wind, rain and cold and busted out 3.6 miles like the good ol' days of summer. I really pushed myself walking today and made some record time - 47 minutes!

Shameless Product Plug Alert!

So I told my friend, Candy, I would promote some new products she found while grocery shopping. I have yet to try either of these, but she claims they are very tasty! She says that the chocolate syrup can be found in the organic/gluten free section of your grocery store and tastes just like the real thing. She suggests adding it to your milk in the morning for a little something extra. The Fudge Brownie mix is Weight Watchers approved, and you can have a 2" x 2" brownie for 120 calories and 0, that's right 0 fat. Check out their site here. Also, Hungry Girl gives the No Pudge review here for their Ice Cream products and here for the brownies!

So what have I been chewing on lately...

Breakfast: nada (bad I know ... but in my defense I didn't do grocery shopping until tonight)

Snack: took it to the vending machine ... Chex Mix (210 calories, 6 grams of fat)

Lunch: in celebration of fall break we did it up Mexican style at the Donner's. I had a fajita salad, and really didn't eat the rice and beans, but did indulge in chips and salsa (guesstimating on this, 700 calories, 25 grams of fat)

Dinner: Honey Nut Cheerios (I had more than the normal person should probably have, but I was hungry and as you can see I didn't have breakfast or other snacks today, 300 calories and 3 grams of fat)

4 glasses of water, 2 diet cokes

Exercise: 3.6 miles walked and then another 1.5 miles walking around the grocery store

So something I want to ask all my readers, what is your guiltless snack? The one thing I find challenging about dieting or healthy life style changes is becoming creative with food. I always get stuck in a rut with the same old foods. Thoughts? Do share!!!

Best of Cleveland @ the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame!

2009-10-02T10:13:00.001-07:00

Looks like fun! You can even sign up to win free tickets! Click below for more!

http://clevelandmagazine.com/bestof/index.html

Shared via AddThis

Got Burnout?

2009-10-01T11:31:00.000-07:00

I got this article from a friend... thought it had some interesting points about creative professionals and how we get burned out. Click here for more!

Is Happiness Overrated? Thoughts?

2009-09-30T08:55:00.000-07:00

Check this out... do you think happiness is overrated? What are your thoughts about this article? Click here for the story!

Busy Is No Excuse

2009-09-22T11:27:00.000-07:00

Every day is like ground hog day anymore. I don't know if that is what happens when you are on the cusp of turning 30 in 8 months (not that I'm counting), or if that is what happens when life become too hectic and/or routine, or when you just feel like you constantly get the short end of the stick. What a sh*tty couple of weeks. It's like the same old sh*t just keeps getting bigger and bigger by the hour, and unfortunately I don't have a pooper scooper that can handle it all in two scoops.

So lately things have been going down the sh*tter. Over the past two weeks I have been occasionally eating sh*tty, have gotten sh*tty news, my horoscope is sh*tty, got a flat tire, sh*t, and got something sh*tty all over one of my favorite shirts. I don't know if you got the memo but this is going to be one sh*tty blog entry ...lol.

So my traveling from Cleveland to Cincinnati has come to an end until Thanksgiving. While I've enjoyed my frequent trips to the southern part of Ohio, I'm glad that I'm not driving that much for a while. Driving just takes it out of you, and when you are doing it alone, there is only so much to talk about with yourself, only so many songs on your iPod to sing, and only so many rest areas you can visit in a four hour time span. The occasional Prime Outlet stop is in order to see what kind of deals the Coach and Gap outlets have, and I have yet to still stop at Grandpa's Cheesebarn, which I may just take some leisure time on the weekend and drive down to Ashland, where the world's friendliest people live, and see it... though I'm convinced that the world's friendliest people don't live in Ashland.

The one thing I've noticed when I make trips to the nasti 'nati is that people tend to meet up for lunch or dinner, and I got to thinking about how often that takes place. Granted, it's easier to work in a meal here and there and catch up with people, but many of my trips to Cincinnati have every meal consumed with getting together with people, catching up, and we part our ways until the next time. Now not that I'm against that because I love fine Cincinnati cuisine, especially when it has anything to do with a three way and/or some Montgomery Inn ribs, but I wonder what it is about food that makes people gather. I plan to ponder more on this question. The trips were so much fun and I'm sad they have come to an end for the time being. I got to catch up with a ton of people!

So after being away for five days it's back to the routine. It rained every single day in Cincy, and then what do you know, I came back to more rain. I love fall but hate it at the same time. I love the fall clothes, shoes, accessories, crisp weather, apple cider, hot chocolate and tea, but hate how most days are cold, rainy and dreary. It just sets you in that Debbie Downer mood. With that comes being unmotivated to work out and get stuff done. BUT I haven't let the somber weather seep in to my bones! Work outs have gotten a little more intense. I now do 20 minutes on the bike, 20-30 minutes on the treadmill, 10 minutes on the elliptical, and then 10-15 minutes of weight machines. Now that I have gotten paid for the month (Woo Hoo!) I'm going to get my copy of the Jillian Michael's 30-day Shred! I'm quite excited about this as I've heard many, many good things about this DVD. I've also been doing water aerobics with my neighbor Andrea, and we've been hitting the gym daily. We are beasts of the east! On Wednesday alone we did 2 hours of activity - 1 hour in the gym and 1 hour of water aerobics... what you got to say about that Jillian Michael's!!!!

Water aerobics is quite the work out. I'm getting my ass served to me on a platter by people who are probably older than my mother. Some of these ladies have been doing this for like 6+ years. They are water warriors! Water aerobics is more physical than people think. You're using body parts and doing exercises you don't think you could do in the water. When you get out of the water you feel like you've enter the Strong Man competition... your arms, legs, shoulders, abs all feel the burn. Next up on the training circuit is Zumba... Thick Chick has highly recommended this and use to be an avid Zumba'er.

So on my quest to skinniness does anyone else have any suggestions on DVD's, classes, work outs, routines, and/or exercises?

The New Kid in Town

2009-09-16T11:43:00.001-07:00

Hey, everyone! I am a new guest blogger here on "Who's The Phat Girl." Just call me Thick Chick.

Some info on me...I am a 25-year-old gal looking to get into shape and start living a healthier life. Since graduating college a few years back, I have consistently gained weight and now am about 40 pounds overweight. I danced and played sports throughout my childhood, highschool, and even college, keeping me in a healthy weight range and allowing me to eat just about anything I wanted. Well, not anymore, hence here I am, telling you all my lifestory.

I thought I would start my time here on this blog with an article I read this morning. Like Em, I have been feeling really sluggish and tired lately. Studies show that a lack of sleep and being tired can make weight loss harder and some people even experience weight gain - no fun. The article discusses some of the most popular sleep issues and how to deal with them. Hopefully the info here helps some people recognize any sleep issues they may be having and the solution to them, aiding in a better night's rest and thus, a healthier them.

http://health.msn.com/health-topics/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100244255&gt1=31036

Multivitamins: How to Pick the Right Supplement

2009-09-16T09:03:00.001-07:00

I don't know about anyone else, but I'm feeling pretty sluggish these days, even with all the healthy lifestyle changes I've been making. I never thought that a multivitamin could help maintain my engergy. I found this article from fitness about picking the right one for you. Thought it was a good read for anyone looking to add a multivitamin in the mix if they already don't.

Multivitamins: How to Pick the Right Supplement

Shared via AddThis

Losin' Big

2009-09-15T21:13:00.000-07:00

I can't go to bed till I blog about the Biggest Loser... what a premier! First off, Tom and Jillian are beasts and I don't think I've heard the "f" word bleeped so much since a Dr. Dre and Snoop Dog video. If I had them yelling at me daily to shut the **** up and get up the ladder there would be no questions asked! Secondly, I hope everything is OK with Tracy. That was some scary sh*t. I couldn't imagine (well sort of) if I lost all total body function like she did. Some of these people have the most compelling stories. If this season doesn't kick some people into high gear then I don't know what will. Abby should be a poet or book writer... she has the best lines ever. More than ever this season really hits a nerve with how we as individuals can lose touch with ourselves, and how we sometimes are quick to blame situations or experiences on why we are the way we are. Granted, it's those situations that do help to define us, but it's not what we are. People are so much more than a story and appearances, and that is one reason why I like this show. It really shows people that if you put your mind, heart and soul into something that you really, really want that it can happen.

Enough of my "making you feel all warm and tingly" inside talk. I'm off to bed. Got to prepare to bust out graphics like I've never busted them out before.

I Wish The Clock Had A Fast Forward Button

2009-09-15T11:13:00.000-07:00

This day is dragging butt. I felt like I got hit up side the head with a mack truck this morning. I thought eating healthy and exercising was suppose to give you more energy... is there a Surgeon's General Warning or advisory about this?

Tonight starts The Biggest Loser, and I can't wait to watch. The only thing that bothers me is I wish this was under normal circumstances (i.e. the people are actually living their own lives...). I would kill to have all day to do nothing but focus on working out like a feen and getting my butt kicked by Bob or Jillian.

Fall shopping is fast approaching and I don't want to buy myself anything new till I've lost 20-30 pounds. My goal this week is to drop 5 lbs. like its my job. That way I can reward myself big time by the end of the month and won't feel bad about adding to my already extensive wardrobe. I already have the items picked out I want to buy... sad I know... I must admit I do have a minor shopping problem with clothing and accessories. Since moving to Cleveland I've given away, no joke, roughly 12 bags of shoes, clothes and accessories. There are some snazzy dressing ladies out there now! I should just open my own second hand shop.

I need to get back on to my crafting soap box. I really enjoy designing jewelry and knitted items. I'm working on some skeleton key necklaces that are all vintage inspired (and use vintage beads, chains, etc.), and am working on the "Emilie Scarf." I have this cream chunky scarf I wear with anything cream I own, and people always ask if I made it, but I didn't, but now I know how to make it! Pictures to come soon!

I'm kinda getting sick of eating the same ol' same ol'. I need to get Emerilized with some BAMmin' recipes. Anyone have any healthy recipes they would like to share that are delicious and nutritious!?

So far today I've indulged in...

Breakfast: Special K protein drink in chocolate (190 calories and 5 grams of fat)

Snack: nada

Lunch: Fajita Nachos with onions, chicken and cheese. Ate most of the topping, and about half the chips with some salsa. Didn't even touch the rice or beans (guesstimating 700 calories and 20 grams of fat)

Snack: Banana (100 calories)

Dinner: nada

Snack: Kemp's individual serving of fro yo strawberry 'n cream parfait
(160 Calories and 1.5 grams of fat)

Water: 6 glasses

Exercise: 3 miles (6152 steps according to the pedometer)

Go PINK!

2009-09-14T17:34:00.000-07:00

The Race of the Cure has come and gone. I'm totally looking forward to this becoming a yearly thing for me to do. What a great event. Betty's Busty Buddies were a hit. It was quite amazing to see all the people who came out and ran/walked/supported this cause. You can never know the magnitude of something of this nature (or cancer in general) until you see all the "In Memory" of signs on peoples backs. It just breaks my heart to see multiple people on the "In Memory" bib sheets on people's shirts. I think sometimes we think "oh it can't happen to me...," but it can. One can not underestimate the big bad monster called cancer. That is why it is important to take all precautions that are necessary. That is why I'm encouraging women to use the buddy system in their monthly self-breast exams. I'm sure I'm not the first one to think of this, but I think using the buddy system would make the exams more fun.

Check out the pictures from the Race for the Cure on my facebook page.

After the race on Saturday, we went out for my friend's 30th birthday. Part two of Break yo'self Dancing took place. I have no idea why I think it is a good idea to drop my entire body as low as I can go. My legs burned the whole day on Sunday, and I'm sure it showed at family breakfast the next morning. At least I got one hell of a work out all day on Saturday. But of course that was followed by a little late night munching on pizza... my splurge for the weekend compliments of the adult beverages.

Today I walked with my neighbor Andrea. We walked about 3 miles all over P-ville and then I came home and did a ton of different arm and leg exercises with my weights. Oh and I only lost 1 lb. this past week. I'm kicking it in super gear this week for sure. Today I didn't eat too terrible, but here we go:

Breakfast: nada, bad I know...

Snack: nada

Lunch: we went to Bravo! for a lunch meeting and I got Pesto Tortellini with Roma tomatoes, onions and sun dried tomatoes with spinach and cheese tortellini in a pesto sauce. Since Bravo! doesn't have any nutritional facts anywhere, I'm going to have to guesstimate this. It was a smaller portion than the dinner portion, so I'm going to guess like 800 calories and 25 grams of fat (I have no idea though)

Dinner: 1/2 cup of Edemame and a California Roll (total, 500 Calories and 10 grams of fat)

Water: 5 glasses

Exercise: walked 3 miles and reps of various arm and leg exercises with 8 lb. weights

Running in Jeans

2009-09-10T20:02:00.000-07:00

I know I've been on a sporadic blogging schedule the past two weeks, and I promise to get back to blogging once a day starting next week. Tonight I did my usual 3.6 mile walk, and as I'm walking I notice this guy jogging in jeans... that's like riding a water ride, getting soaked, and having to walk around in jeans in like 100 degree humid weather. I wouldn't think jeans are the most flexible yet breathable fabric to jog in... especially for a guy. I would think in someway that would be equivalent to chestnuts roasting on an open fire (yup... I went there...).

So I'm really excited for the Race for the Cure in Cincinnati on Saturday. My sister, her two friends, my grandmother (a breast cancer survivor) and I will be walking in it. In honor of my grandma's struggle and journey with Breast Cancer, I designed a t-shirt for the event (see left). In a way it's kind of surreal to go to something like this. You never get the full affect of a disease that affects thousands of people a year until you do an event like this. It's quite overwhelming to say the least. With all the research I've been doing lately, and preparing for this race it makes me wonder... if I got tested to see if I was a carrier for the BRCA breast cancer gene, and found out that I was a carrier for it, would I be able to face the options that lie ahead. Let's be honest, no one wants to bear the thought of losing a body part, especially "those" body parts. How would I live without Thelma and Louis?

I guess guys would ACTUALLY have to look at my eyes then. This is one reason I'm on this healthy lifestyle journey.

My shameless product plug for the week are Boca Burgers... I LOVE these things. I bought the tomato/pizza burger and the spicy black bean (which by the way, isn't spicy but still tasty). They range around the 120 calorie mark and 4-6 grams of fat. I know what you're thinking... how can that be any where nearly remotely good. Well I'm living proof that they are. They are quite flavorful, juicy, and they will get you a serving of your fruit and veggies for the day. What else could you ask for!

Drum roll please... today's chef specials were as follows:

Breakfast: Nada (I know bad...)

Snack: low-fat granola bar

Lunch: Spicy Bean boca burger (120 calories and 4 grams of fat) with a 1/2 cup of Edamame (100 calories, 3 grams of fat), a slice of Colby Jack cheese (80 calories, 7 grams of fat), whole wheat English muffin (110 calories, 1 gram of fat) and a small banana (70 calories),

Lunch Damage: 480 calories and 15 grams of fat

Snack: Kemp's frozen yogurt parfait (230 calories, 9 grams of fat)

Dinner: went to the Donner's and had Fajita Nachos (guesstimating 800 calories and 20 grams of fat)

Total Damage: 1,600 calories and 44 grams of fat (little high on the calorie intake but low on the fat intake)

Exercise: walked 3.6 miles

Water: 5 glasses

Challenger for my readers...

What do you eat? What are your favorite foods or meals. Show me what you're working with and upload your picture comments with some of your favorites!

Cute Boys are Like Dove Candies...

2009-09-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

as good as they may seem they always end up being bad for you! First and foremost I want to apologize to my readers for being MIA the past several days. I've been traveling, getting my promotional materials done, and a bunch of other things I will not bore you with. BUT on a side note, I did lose 10 pounds! CHICKA CHICKA! I'm pretty stoked, because the scale initially lied to me and said I only lost 5, and then the next day it said I lost 10. Any who back to my thought...

This weekend I rolled back to the 'nasti for a hot minute, and to my surprise (and dismay) my mom had bought Dove candies. Up until this past weekend I haven't had any candy. I was trying to come up with logic thinking as to how cute boys and Dove candies are similar. Here are my thoughts. Feel free to add your comments or add to the list.

Both can be pretty good looking, smooth, and have nice things to say. It's all in the packaging if you ask me. At least with the Dove promise messages on the inside of the wrapper you won't be waiting for an answer or a telephone call.

Both are quite enjoyable, until you realize how bad they actually are for your well being.

Both, in some way, can add baggage to your life. Moderation is the key.

Both create some sort of chemical release in your body.

Both can make you feel good and bad at the same time. That's why its good to practice will power.

I'm sure you're wondering if I indulged in some Dove candy... the answer is yes. It was my cheat for the weekend, but I only like 4 over the course of 3 days. I did eat really well though which I'm giving myself props for. I had grilled chicken and veggies one night for dinner and the other night I had two mini-turkey sliders and a salad. Lately I've been notorious for eating like one meal a day, which I'm going to blame on my schedule last week. I didn't go to bed until 2 a.m. practically every night, and was running errands until dusk so that left no time for walking. This week I have to make up my walking for what I missed out on over the past 4 days or so.

Today consisted of:

Breakfast: Yogurt parfait with strawberries and granola

Snack: n/a

Lunch: we went to the donner's for lunch... I'm going to have to guesstimate on this again... I had a half of a quesadilla with sour cream and guac, rice and some chips and salsa (700 calories, 20 grams of fat)

Snack: n/a

Dinner: Veggie burrito bowl with black beans, corn, tomato, and less rice, sour cream, cheese and guac. I have to go grocery shopping so it was this or a 100 calorie pack of Oreos. I'm going to guess that this was mucho calories... and we will leave it at that.

Exercise: walked 2 miles and rode the stationary bike for 5 miles

To My Readers...

2009-09-01T06:31:00.000-07:00

I promise to update tonight... I've been so busy that busy can't even keep up with how busy I've been, but of course that's no excuse to not keep this updated. BUT I will say I've lost 10 pounds in a little over two weeks! Totally stoked about that!

Ain't No Rest for the Wicked

2009-08-24T20:17:00.001-07:00

O.M.G. I have so much to do and such little time to do it in. I think I basically live off of stress, adrenaline and procrastination. It's not like I put things off to the last minute it's that the last minute creeps up so fast that procrastination just sets in. I didn't leave work till after 6:30 tonight, came home ate waffles for dinner, caught up on some reading and then headed out walking at 7:45 till 9:00. Made a few phone calls, responded to some emails and had to get my reality fashion fix with The Rachel Zoe Project, which by the way was bananas. Now I'm making a list of all sorts of projects I need to get together. To boot, I haven't finalize my mini portfolio and that is still in limbo. UGH! The life of a designer.

Today, I worked it. I got up 10 minutes before I had to be at work, which is 8:30, and had a 9:00 IA meeting. Awesome. I got ready with 5 minutes to spare. Shower, hair done, make-up on, clothes ironed all with in 25 minutes. That's a miracle in my book. I guess it helps living right across the street from your employer.

So the soup de jour today was the following. Don't hate, I didn't really eat very well, and when I mean well I guess I mean how I've been eating. I'm still under calorie consumption for the day, but I really didn't eat balanced meals, which kinda makes me mad since I was doing so well with getting in all sorts of fruits, veggies and proteins.

Breakfast: nada

Snacks: Diet Coke

Lunch: Don Tequila special # 8 (chicken soft taco, rice and small quesadilla with chicken and veggies) Damage: 800 calories, 25 grams of fat (guesstimating)

Dinner: 2 Eggo Nutri-Grain Strawberry filled waffles (130 cal. ea, 3.5 grams of fat ea; total - 260 calories and 7 grams of fat) with light butter spread (50 calories, 5 grams of fat)
Dinner Damage: 310 calories and 10.5 grams of fat

Exercise: 4 miles walked

Water: 4 glasses

Total Damage: 1,210 calories and 35.5 grams of fat

I Love the Nightlife

2009-08-23T19:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend was pretty entertaining. The Eastside Crew and myself decided we needed a well deserved night on the town before we start the "gasp" dreaded work week. Now, I've come to realize that a 29 year old body doesn't recover like a 28 year old body, and if a song ever has the words "Get Low" in the chorus, do not, I repeat, do not try to get low unless you have the following: 1) extra hands to get your butt up off the floor; 2) any sort of railing assistance; and last but definitely not least 3) a make-shift limbo bar. I haven't danced that hard since 'nam, but I definitely made up for the two days of not walking that's for sure. Then today I helped Cuz finish packing her apartment for like 3 hours (she lives on the second floor), so I'm pretty sure I burned enough calories between droppin' it like it's hot and running up and down stairs. My thighs will be feeling it till Tuesday. Another thing, why do women continually torture their feet with high heels? Granted, I'm guilty as charged when it comes to wearing heels and cute high shoes to the point I can't feel my toes, but why can't shoe designers make cute heels and wedges that are like a sexy and chic orthopedic shoe? It has to be do-able. Where there's a will there's a way.

This week starts "back to school." I can't believe how fast this academic year has gone, and I can't believe I've lived in Cleveland for a year and a half now. It's amazing how fast time flies any more. How come time could never fly this fast when I was sitting in algebra class or communication law? I only have three weeks left till the 5k. It's time to get down and dirty just like Mose days. I have to get focused the next three weeks, and HAVE to walk at least twice a day. This past week I've been not so good about walking twice a day, so the next three I have to get my game face on and my laces tight!

I'm Ready for My Close Up Mr. Deville

2009-08-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

The past three days have been a whirlwind, and not to crash and burn, but I haven't ate the greatest. I'm pretty sure I haven't gone over my maxium allotted of calories (1500), but I haven't ate very balanced meals, or was able to walk two days this week due to weather and feeling under the weather, which really bummed me out. But I did redeem myself today with all the running around we did for the photo shoot from 7:30 a.m. to noon. It was hella fun, and my boss, the grad assistant and I did a kick ass job - and I have to give MAJOR props to the students for being the stars of the show. Not to mention Russell Lee photography. Talk about some phenomenal work. I don't know what this guy has in his camera (magic pixie dust or photo mojo), but we are going to have some pretty frickin cool shots to choose from. Can't wait to start designing the new street banners, ads, and other collateral for the campus.

The one thing I've learned this year is my ability to push my endurance. Just when I think I've had enough, I haven't, in some sick and twisted way. My problem is I set the bar higher than I can reach, but some way, some how I always end up reaching it; maybe with a little help from a step ladder every now and then. I got to thinking over this past week, is there ever a point where enough is enough? I've had plenty of occasions where enough is enough, but somehow it just keeps piling on. What is that? Do I have a sign that says, "I'm tough, keep it coming," or "NO, that isn't in my vocabulary!," or "Go ahead, just don't leave foot prints on me." I think I've gotten better in becoming more asserting in all aspects of life. I never realized what I was made of until I was put in situations where I had to "Make it Work!," Tim Gunn style (minus the Macy's accessory wall and the chance to win a $100,000 dollars toward my own line). I guess that's one of the fun parts of this journey called life, no matter what road you end up taking, there is always a detour, fork or cal-de-sac of changes awaiting - all you have to do is decide which way you want to go.

Working for da man...

2009-08-20T06:23:00.001-07:00

Regulators... MOUNT UP!

2009-08-18T19:12:00.000-07:00

I've found with walking every night that there are small mafias of rug rats on bikes. They roll like 20 deep, no joke. They cycle in stealth mode - it's like they come out of the bushes or something with no warning. I practically lost a finger tonight truckin' it up Levan.

I'm like already at that point with my walking that I HAVE to do it everyday. It's like I go into zombie Thriller mode at 7:30 p.m. every night with "must walk at least 3.6 miles" (insert blank stare, stiffen appendages, and exit the mansion to W. Washington Street). I'm kinda like Bette Midler in "Ruthless People" when after she gets kidnapped, who decides that to make the best use of being locked up in a posh '80's basement is to work out like a maniac. Except I'm minus the posh '80's basement and I'm not being held for ransom by a shy, wanna-be fashion designer and A/V sales guy. I can dream I suppose...

On with Monday's menu, which was far from exciting I must say. I need to switch it up a bit. I plan on purchasing Jillian Michael's "30 Day Shred" this week and add that to my walking routine. We'll see if I'm still standing by next week!

Breakfast: 2 Eggo Nutri-Grain Strawberry filled waffles(130 calories ea, 3.5 grams of fat ea; total - 260 calories and 7 grams of fat) with a smear of peanut butter (200 calories and 16 grams of fat) Breakfast Damage: 460 calories and 21 grams of fat

Lunch: Santa Fe Rice and Beans Lean Gourmet meal (310 calories, 8 grams of fat); Yoplait Fat Free Cherry Cobbler yogurt (100 calories); Apple (70 calories); Crystal Light Lemonade (5 Calories)
Lunch Damage: 485 calories and 8 grams of fat

Snack: Fiber One Chocolate and Oats bar (140 calories and 4 grams of fat)

Dinner: 100 calorie (1 gram of fat) Thomas English Muffin with Turkey (50 calories, .5 grams of fat), 2 slices of Pepper Jack cheese (80 calories, 7 grams of fat; total 160 calories 14 grams of fat), 1 serving of Low-Fat Kettle Chips (130 calories, 5 grams of fat), 6 apple slices (30 calories)Dinner Damage: 470 calories, 20.5 grams of fat

Total Damage: 1555 total calories consumed and 53.5 total grams of fat consumed (again a little high today, but the average calorie intake for women looking to lose weight is 1500, fat is 50 grams, so all in all not too bad)

Water consumption: 6 glasses

Exercise: 3.6 miles walked

Shake it don't break it...

2009-08-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

Well another weekend has passed us by... why do weekends go so fast? It's like the older you get the fast time goes. I really think there should be 3-day weekends. I would be hella productive in four days. This weekend was pretty laid back, just what the doctor ordered. I watched one of my favorite movies "He's just not that into you" and it gave me some food for thought in this vicious dating world, and how everything comes down to communication. But that's for the next post... I'm going to resurrect my good ole blog about dating.

I did pretty good this weekend except for the s'more I ate on Saturday night at the bonfire, so I guess that was my cheat day, and that's what I decided to cheat on it with. Which, at the bonfire, I saw three shooting stars from the meteor shower. One was really vibrant, like it lit up the sky.

So on with today. Today I don't even think I breathed at work. I was engrossed from the time I walked in to the time I cntrl alt deleted at the end of the day. I think IT is going to have to replace my keyboard I was pounding the keys so hard today! Thank God Apple came up with iPods and iTunes. Nothing like blasting a little Warren G and Nate Dogg to get you through a sluggish afternoon of formatting and converting text into tables.

What was cooking today? I didn't really eat today, nor have much substantial. Kinda bad but I really wasn't hungry. I've been trying to do small meals, but just wasn't feeling it today I suppose. Which is weird because since I've changed my eating habits I have felt fuller with eating the small proportionate meals and healthy proportionate small snacks in between.

Breakfast: 1.5 cups of Honey Bunches of Oats (200 calories and 2 grams of fat)

Snack: Nada

Lunch: Fajita nachos (700 calories and 20 grams of fat... guesstimating, it was just chicken, cheese and onions on tortilla chips; I only ate the topping and a few chips. Didn't even touch the rice or beans)

Snack: Eddy's real fruit bar in Lime (80 calories)

Dinner: 1.5 cups of Honey Bunches of Oats (200 calories and 2 grams of fat)

Water: 6 glasses

Exercise: 5.4 miles walked

Thursday... blows oboes

2009-08-13T16:59:00.000-07:00

Well today reallyl blew. Do you ever have those days where you just want to scream obscenities at the top of you lungs... I suffer from cursing tourettes. I'll admit it, I enjoy making up my own curse words like "jackhole" or "ass monkey." I sometimes scratch my head and wonder what kind of kool-aid people are drinking these days. Do people sneak shrooms into the office and pop them throughout the day? REALLY...

So today I totally didn't feel like working out, but I tore up the asphalt again tonight, walking another solid 3.6 miles. Sometimes work is just exhausting that the thought of "working out" even exhausts me more. But I'm glad I did it, no doubt about that. I had no idea when deciding on a profession at the tender age of 16, 17 and 18 years old that this is what I would have to look forward to... being drained, stressed, and sometimes creatively stifled. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE what I do, but sometimes you just hit a road block. I guess if I really did go to meterology school I would hit more than just a road block... I'd probably hit straight into a F3 tornado or Hurricane whatever name.

Today's menu consisted of:

Breakfast:
2 Eggo Nutri-Grain Strawberry filled waffles (130 cal. ea, 3.5 grams of fat ea; total - 260 calories and 7 grams of fat) with light butter spread (50 calories, 5 grams of fat)

Breakfast Damage: 310 calories and 10.5 grams of fat

Snack: Banana (100 calories)

Lunch:

2 cups of store bought salad (15 calories, 0 grams of fat); 1/4 cup of cheese (110 calories and 9 grams of fat); 1-oz Tyson diced chicken (110 calories and 2.5 grams of fat); 2 tbsp Light Honey Mustard Dressing (70 calories and 4 grams of fat); Salad toppings (1/3 tbsp; 35 calories and 1 gram of fat); Craisins (80 calories and 0 grams of fat); Fat Free chocolate pudding (80 calories)

Lunch Damage: 500 calories and 16.5 grams of fat

Snack: Fiber One Chocolate and Oats bar (140 calories and 4 grams of fat)

Dinner:
Weight Watchers Smart One Lasagna (300 calories and 6 grams of fat); 2 cup side salad (15 calories and 0 grams of fat) with light Italian dressing (45 calories and 4 grams of fat) with cheese (less than a 1/4 cup >110 calories and 9 grams of fat) and salad toppings (35 calories and 1 gram of fat); Crystal Light Lemonade (5 calories)

Dinner Damage: 495 calories and 20 grams of fat

Total Damage: 1545 calories and 51 grams of fat (a little high today, but the average calorie intake for women looking to lose weight is 1500, fat is 50 grams, so all in all not too bad considering this is my highest calorie intake for the week)

Water: 5 glasses

Exercise: walked 3.6 miles

One Sweet Giveaway

2009-08-12T16:14:00.001-07:00

Daily Candy 100 Day Giveaway

If you don't subscribe to dailycandy.com you should. Tons of sweet deals and steals for the ladies! Check out the link above to see if you can win some cool loot. They are giving away 100 items for 100 days. In a way it's like the lottery... except with designer prizes.

Shared via AddThis

Food/Exercise Journal for Tuesday and Wednesday

2009-08-12T14:08:00.000-07:00

Wednesday

Breakfast: 1 cup Honey Bunches of Oats (160 calories, 1.5 grams of fat)

Snack: Bananna (100 calories, 0 grams of fat)

Lunch: 100 calorie (1 gram of fat) Thomas English Muffin with Turkey (50 calories, .5 grams of fat), 1 slice of Pepper Jack cheese (80 calories, 7 grams of fat), 1 serving of Low-Fat Kettle Chips (130 calories, 5 grams of fat), 6 apple slices (30 calories)
Lunch Damage: 390 calories, 13.5 grams of fat

Snack: Chocolate and Oats Fiber One bar (140 calories, 4 grams of fat)

Dinner: 1 cup Steamfresh light saused pasta with veggies (260 calories, 8 grams of fat), Tyson diced chicken (1 oz., 110 calories, 2.5 grams of fat); Kemps Straberry Single Serving Yogurt Parfait (160 calories, 1.5 grams of fat)
Dinner Damage: 310 calories, 12 grams of fat

Exercise: walked 3.6 miles

Total damage: 1100 calories, 31 grams of fat

Tuesday

Breakfast: Yoplait Blackberry Harvest Yogurt (170 calories, 3 grams of fat)

Snack: Bananna (100 calories, 0 grams of fat)

Lunch: Don Tiqulia special # 8 (chicken soft taco, rice and small quesodilla with chicken and veggies) Damage: 800 calories, 25 grams of fat (guestimating)

Snack: no afternoon snack

Dinner: 1 cup of Honey Bunches of Oats Cereal (160 calories, 1.5 grams of fat)

Water: 6 glasses

Exercise: walked 3.6 miles

Total Damage: 1230 calories, 30 grams of fat

Tastebud Tuesday

2009-08-11T16:25:00.000-07:00

So once a week I'm going to try a new "healthy" product and give it my two cents worth. Drum roll please...

Last night I tried the Kemps Yogurt Parfaits (single serving of vanilla fro yo and granola; 230 cal., 9 grams of fat), and I now have my new fix! It was tangy/citrusy and sweet at the same time, which not only made my taste buds jump for joy, but the texture was so smooth and creamy, not gritty like some fro yo's I've had. They run about $1.50 a pop (at Giant Eagle), which isn't too bad, but I've been reading that many stores run specials on these (10 for $10 kinda deal). Plus it has all that live and active culture stuff in it to keep your digestive track on the up and up... and when you get close to 30 like me, you gotta keep those things in consideration.

Verdict: I give it two thumbs up and a string of pearls. Tantalizes my taste buds, as well as not breaking my pocket book, and gives you the sweet fix that you need, all while keeping your insides rocking'!

Manic Monday

2009-08-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

So today started off pretty rough. Totally didn't hear my alarm so I missed my morning work out and with that it was hotter than balls in my apartment. Why you ask? Because I'm living it up 19Th century style with no a/c. I live in a gorgeous mansion that was built in 1908, and has been converted to apartments. I love my apartment... the charm, the character, the history - except no a/c. I know you are probably saying, "stop your bitchin' and complainin'!" but I hope all this sweatin' it out has a good affect!

I managed to get walking in after work. Why I thought it would be a good idea to walk right after I got out of work at 5 p.m. Considering it was 85+ degrees out and I chose to wear gym pants... that was a bad decision. I got in 2.4 miles. Not to shabby, minus almost getting attacked by a dog.

Whats cookin' for today?

Breakfast: I was bad and didn't eat breakfast... I know, I know send me to shakles

Lunch: Subway (6" sweet onion chicken teriyaki with 2 cheese triangles, lettuce and banana peppers with Sour Cream and Cheddar Baked Lays and a water) Damage: 560 Calories, 13.5 grams of fat.

Snack: string cheese

Dinner: Gordon Fisherman grilled tilapia fillet (100 Calories, 3 grams of fat), Jolly Green Giant Health Blends Healthy Weight mixed veggies (180 calories, 5 grams of fat), Kemps single Yogurt Parfait (280 calories, 9 grams of fat) Damage: 510 calories, 17 grams of fat

Exercise: 2.4 miles walking outside

Water Consumed: 8 glasses

So the journey begins...

2009-08-10T19:12:00.000-07:00

Well last night I had a serious discussion with myself and said no more... no more putting off the "healthy lifestyle change." I've talked about for some time now, and more than ever I'm ready to make it happen. I've made it my goal to lose 100 pounds in 12 months, and while this maybe a little much you think I think it is just the tip of the iceburg. Some would say I'm an over acheiver, and with that I've done it all... Weight Watchers, binge exercising, restrictive dieting... you name it I've done it. I can honestly say I've probably been on a diet since I was in the 4th grade. Awesome right!? Not so much. What 4th grader goes to Weight Watcher weigh ins? Aren't they usually doing something... constructive or destructive? The most weight I've lost is 65 pounds when I was 14 and that was with working out every single day and writing down everything I ate. So that's what I'm going to do. It worked the first time, so lets see what happens this 100th time. Hope you all enjoy "the journey."

29 is like pre-30

2009-06-16T10:10:00.000-07:00

So I'm at lunch with Cuz and Web Joe and the hottest topic around came up... my birthday. As we were talking, Cuz says, "Well at least your not 30!," and that made me think... really 29 is PRE-30... it's kinda like Pre-Nursing... you know you're really not a nurse but almost there, so you kinda feel like you are... well at least Pre-Nursing sounds better than Pre-30. I guess I can view age like wine... it only gets better with age.

Portfolio, proportions and parties

2009-06-15T20:02:00.000-07:00

So I'm working on some new ideas for my portfolio, and thinking about doing mini portfolios for any perspective employers that may stumble upon my awesome resume and need a little something, something to refer back to after I blow them away with my awesome interviewing skills... that is if I can land some. I'd say I'm a seasoned graphic designer these days; almost 5 years in the game, and still holding strong. Though there is always this need to evolve in your craft, kinda like Madonna. For some reason, she could sing kid's songs and still hit the top of the charts. I, in essence, want to be the Madonna of graphic design. It may take a little time, a little more sacrificing than I've already done, and a lot of patience but I think I could do it. I guess all I need now is the time... damn that time. It's always on your side, but at the same time there is just not enough of it.

Another thing I've noticed lately, as I've been trying to do a lot of "changing of my ways" is proportion size. I never really noticed what I SHOULD be eating when it comes to proportion size. I had a Lean Cuisine the other day, and stood there in amazement of what proportions I should be eating. Not that I eat these huge ass proportions, but I'm sure there are times when my eyes are bigger than my stomach. The past few weeks I've given almost everything I got to give to a healthier life style. I walk practically twice a day, eat tons of fruits and veggies, given up on the 100 calorie packs, cut carbs, drinking 8+ glasses of water a day, no pop for the last 8 months... I mean practically anything that tastes good I've given up. Now I just need to invest in a scale... or not.

So the big two-nine is coming up... yup I'm officially old. Twenty-nine is kinda like turning twenty-four... you're still in your twenties, but close to a really BIG birthday that can be life changing and mood altering. This is totally the girl coming out in me, but WTF happened to the timeline, and girls, if you're reading this you know what I mean. Seriously, I think I was lied to when I was younger and the fairy tails should be renamed to reality bites tails. I guess in away it's not when you get there, it's how you get there, right? Or vice verse?

Bargain of the Week

2009-05-13T05:41:00.000-07:00

As you already know, I've been working on sprucing up the mansion, and have been looking for wall quotes to cover bare walls. Kohls has buy one, get one free on their artwork, wall quotes, frames, as well as clothing. Expect great things... at Kohls.

There's beauty in the breakdown

2009-05-12T07:46:00.000-07:00

What a couple of crazy weeks it has been. I've officially moved into the masion. The apartment is awesome, and can't wait to get it all decorated! I'm almost there but there are touches that are needed. Look for pictures to come next week. I've got some new art projects on the horizon that I'm pretty stoked about, and am seriously contemplating making my own note cards. I was assigned a photography project in my multidisciplinary class, and I must give myself a pat on the back for my amatur attempt at kick ass photography.

A lot has been going on. For starters, I just don't understand the opposite sex. I think this is a subject that has perplexed me since I started dating at the tender age of 15. Even before the tender age of 15. I will never forget the first time I knew I was destined to be pursued by "the" older men. I was in third grade, and at that time the third graders lined up at the lower level of the school. The fourth graders lined up at the upper level of the school by the flag pool. It was then that the "holla'n" started. It doesn't matter what age they are they "holla" no matter what. As always, and even in third grade, I was always particular about my style. I will never forget that I was obessed with the movie "The Secret of My Success" staring Michael J. Fox. I got my hair cut just like the blonde he went after. I'm sure that's what started it all.

In an era that is we are consumed by "he's just not that into me," what dictates how a guy is into you? I feel like I need to keep a dic(k)tionary for men or flirty flash cards on hand to know the signs. It's almost like the signs contradict themselves anymore. This miscommunication when it comes to dating is enough to even cause the best player to stay in retirement. What happened to the good old days of check "yes, no, or maybe?" in your favorite crayola crayon, and then taking a restroom break only to slip it into your crush's wooden cubby hole by the coat room. Ah if it was only that easy, right?

This is totally off topic, but I must share a site I came across and am pretty excited to look into it more. It's called 20somethingfinance.com and I came across it the other day as I was rummaging the wide world web for money saving ideas. It has some good advice for us 20 somethings that are tightening our belts during these dire economic times. I, myself, have stepped up my cost saving measures with bargain finds, coupon clipping, thrifty thrills and goods.

Well it is way past my bed time, and it's been awhile since I posted anything. Hopefully you find my ramblings somewhat amusing, or at least something to pass the time!

I've been bad...very very bad

2009-04-21T08:27:00.000-07:00

So I've been pretty bad about updating this thing. A MASSIVE update is coming and I promise to do better on keeping it updated.

Life, bargins, and random thoughts

2009-03-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

So I totally haven't kept up my end of the bargin for starting a blog. Just to recap on what I've been up to... I had a heck of a couple of weekends! One of my best friends came in town a few weeks ago and we had a "dude weekend." We did the girly stuff of shopping, getting our nails done, site seeing, etc. At night, we let loose and let the good times roll! It was good to see that some of the Clevelanders came out for it! High five for dude weekend '09! Then a week later I had "Dude Weekend Part Deux." Equally as fun, and equally as scandelous. It's always good to be surround with good friends from home. Keeps you grounded I think. I got to catch up with my family, friends and some of my clients - overall a much needed weekend.

I also found some freaking ridiculous great deals over the past few weeks. Right now, Macy's has a huge clearance sale - 65% off clearance. Not to mention urbanoutfitters.com, I found some fantastic bargins for the new mansion I'm moving into.

So I found a great apartment (compliments of Cuz), and it's the type of apartment I've always wanted. Hardwood flooring, charm, awesome fireplace, and features you just don't find very often any more. It even has a secret passage way! I can't wait to use that line on some innocent fella... "Hey want to see my secret passage way...?" Oh that makes me laugh.

Lately I've been presented with multiple obstacles, and sometimes I wonder if we are faced with obstacles to 1) not only over come them, but to find opportunity from them; and 2) to face things we don't necessarily want to face. There's always things you don't want to do, but what if there is no way around them? Then you're forced to do them. I like to think things happen for a reason, but why can't that reason be as previlent as the happenings for them. This is too deep for a Tuesday night, I know. I should be watching The Real Housewives of New York City or something...

Weekly Bargins

2009-03-12T13:26:00.000-07:00

In an effort to be more thirfty in these dire economic conditions, I am dedicating one day to weekly bargins.

Old Navy, Gap, Bananna Republic - They are offering 30% off your purchase in store and online until March 15. Email me if you'd like me to send you the email.

BigLots, Echo point furniture and lamps - 50% off of fine furnishings and lamps. I really like this line because it matches everything in my mansion.

World Market - great price on Adirondack Chairs ($99) and Wicker all weather chairs ($79). Great for a not-your-average piece of furniture.

Amazon.com - 20% off shoes already marked down.