Chicken Fried.

It’s FRIDAY!!! WOOHOO! I’m happy the weekend is finally here! This weekend I get to see Whitney and her crew and my family in Chattanooga. It should be a fun weekend. I don’t have too much going on tonight...we will just have to see.

I don’t really have too much today. I think I am just itching to for the weekend to “officially” start.

I will share what I thought about earlier though. Some people at work were going to City Café for lunch. If you don’t know, City Café is a Meat & Three kind of place. I love it. When I wasn’t dieting, my meal there consisted of a fried chicken breast (dunked in ranch of course), mashed potatoes & gravy, macaroni & cheese and fried green tomatoes. They also have rolls and cornbread. So, yah, not the healthiest meal ever. In the south there are a ton of these types of places with country cooking. Sometimes, it’s hard to get around. I have only been to City Café once in the past year probably and I went with EVERY intention of cheating...I don’t get it often. I was wondering earlier though how I would possibly survive if I had to go there with someone.

There is another place that my mom and I go to call Mr. Bill’s which is kind of similar. She loves their cornbread so we go sometimes. For some reason, it’s easier to eat there than City Café. When I go there, I get a smoked chicken breast, a baked potato and a double order of green beans. It’s usually pretty good...though they’ve recently done away with the baked potato at lunchtime. Anyway, places like that usually have either a smoked or grilled chicken breast. They almost always have green beans. The only problem with green beans is that if you are from the south, they are probably made with bacon grease. There is this place downtown and their green beans are LOADED with chunks of bacon. Trust me...you can tell...green beans don’t naturally taste like pork. I tend to choose them though and hope that it’s not that bad. Honestly, it sucks to eat at these places but you CAN make better choices. If they have a baked potato, corn on the cob, sliced tomatoes, tossed salad, or a fruit of some sort...that’s going to be better than piling your plate with nothing but fried food and starches. I know it’s tough...in fact they are probably some of the worst types of places to go to...but you can suffer through it if you need to. Gosh...I REALLY want some fried green tomatoes now. If you love them like I do...you could fry up some turkey bacon, then sauté thinly sliced green tomatoes in the same pan and then have a guilt free BLT...those things are pretty good.

As an aside, I looked up the points for the Double Down sandwich at KFC (for research purposes only of course) and it’s only 13 points. I mean I know it’s a lot but the Baconator is like 21 or something. In case you didn’t know, it’s the one that uses fried chicken as the bun and it has bacon and cheese and some sort of sauce in the middle. I might try it sometime...you know...just so I can be an efficient diet blogger. I’ll let you know what I think...I’m looking out for you.



Good luck out there.

I hope everyone has a great weekend. I might try to take some pictures but I wouldn’t get too excited considering my lack of picture taking these days.

“You know I like my chicken fried,
cold beer on a Friday night,
a pair of jeans that fit just right
and the radio up.” Chicken Fried-Zac Brown Band

FUN WITH PHOTO SHOP!

Today is going to be yet another day that I complain about food at work. I came in this morning and it smelled like pancakes and sausage...couldn’t have any. Someone told me they brought light syrup. Honestly, it was hard not to choke her. I realize that it was a very thoughtful gesture and so of course I was nice but sometimes I want to shake people and be like, “JUST BECAUSE THE SYRUP IS LIGHT DOES NOT MEAN I CAN NOW HAVE PANCAKES!!!” I of course did not say this... I just said...”Thanks anyway but if I’m going to participate in the BBQ LUNCH that they are ALSO having, I certainly can’t have any.” Thankfully, someone brought lettuce so I guess I can pile up some lettuce and put some chicken and a little BBQ sauce on top and it will be ok. I definitely have some diet rage going on today. I’m HAWNGRY and bitter and all my spare time today will be dedicated to exercise including but not limited to the elliptical, walking and softball.

In honor of my bad mood...I decided I wouldn’t say much but just post a few pictures that I Photo Shopped. These are always fun. I am definitely not an expert at manipulating pictures but I’m getting better and I have fun doing it.

I hope you enjoy.








There. I feel better now.

I hope you all have a great lunchtime, afternoon and evening.

One more thing...I just noticed I now have 20 followers! Welcome! YAY!

I’m gonna bust a move...

“Your best friend Harry has a brother Larry
In five days from now he's gonna marry
He's hopin you can make it there if you can
'Cause in the ceremony you'll be the best man
You say "neato"... check your libido
And roll to the church in your new tuxedo
The bride walks down just to start the wedding
And there's one more girl you won't be getting
So you start thinkin, then you start blinkin
A bride maid looks and thinks that you're winkin
She thinks you're kinda cute so she winks back
And now you're feelin really fine cus the girl is stacked
Reception's jumpin, bass is pumpin
Look at the girl and your heart starts thumpin
Says she wants to dance to a different groove
Now you know what to do g, bust a move.” Bust A Move-Young MC

“If You Drink, Don’t Drive, Do The Watermelon Crawl...”

For some reason, I haven’t gotten all my steps in the past few days and it is really annoying me. I like to get no less than 7700 steps a day and I am cutting it really short. It makes me feel lazy but what is funny is that Monday, I walked over 2 miles and yesterday I walked over a mile and played in a softball game and I still didn’t get enough steps either day! So, I know I’m not lazy but it still feels like I am. I am just going to have to push it today after work and the next few days. I can’t get in the habit of not getting enough steps or I won’t make it. I’m almost a quarter of the way through (to the million steps in 130 days in case you forgot) and I’m on track for now but I won’t be if I don’t...wait for it...get to steppin’.

Anyway, enough of that. Today...I am going to talk about DRANKIN’. Now, some of y’all may not drink and some of you are flat out opposed to it so I’m sorry if this doesn’t pertain to you. I am a believer that MOST things (illegal activities like drunk driving, crack smoking etc are excluded) are OK if done in moderation. If I only had 2 pieces of pizza instead of 8 when I ordered one...I wouldn’t have nearly the issues. I feel the same way about drinking. I mean listen...food is my vice. If you take that away and smoking is out and I don’t knit or anything like that and biting my nails can only go so far...I need something. SO I do like to wind down with a beer or a cocktail sometimes. Sue me. Because of Weight Watchers, I have to keep it to the bare minimum because alcohol is LOADED with sugar and fat.

So, if you didn’t know that alcohol isn’t just something that can get in the way of your judgment if you have too much, it’s also full of things that are bad for you.

Now that we all know that...I have a couple of suggestions.

1.) Much like the fact that abstinence is the only way to prevent pregnancy...NOT drinking is the only way to prevent weight gain from too much alcohol (not to mention embarrassing encounters with former preachers, being a little too honest with your friends and searching forever to get someone to drive you home just in case). Seriously people...don’t drink and drive...it’s bad news...I’m talking to myself too.

2.) If you’re like me, and sometimes adult beverages are a way to wind down (and not in that alcoholic kind of way) you can try having a screwdriver or a DIET soda and bourbon. One...ONE shot of liquor is two points. I usually spend 2 points on breakfast. It makes it hard to make room for those pesky well drinks. I definitely wouldn’t recommend getting anything that has the words daiquiri or martini or margarita. I know...I love margaritas too but I’m sorry...save it for cheat day. A little baby screwdriver is only 2 points so you get the juice and the shot...same with the Diet Coke and whatever dark liquor you want. But remember...they aren’t just 2 points a drink...they are 1 drink for 2 points, 2 drinks for 5, 2 drinks for 7 and so on. I still get quite a lot of points but for those of you out there that are pretty thin and you are dieting...it’s really hard to drink and eat...and I would never recommend choosing liquor over food. Not a good idea.

3.) If you are a beer drinker, the darker and fruitier the beer, the more points they are. I happen to like beer but I prefer the kinds that are lighter so that’s good for me. I think beers that are dark are usually gross...Guiness tastes like tar...so I am cool with light beers. You can try the Miller 64 and the Bud Select 55 (pictured below). These beers are 1 point a piece (the 55 is better because they are always 1 point a piece but the 64 is 2 for 3, 3 for 4 etc.)but if you are a real beer drinker...meh...they aren’t great...more like beer flavored water. If you want a GOOD tasting 2 point beer...I would recommend regular Bud Select...I think it’s only 99 calories.



The moral of the story is...if you are dieting...there is no question that drinking will not help but...if you don’t enjoy your life by eating and drinking things you want in MODERATION...it will be really hard to maintain it forever. Has it taken me a long time to lose weight the past few months? Yes, but I haven’t had it too bad and I’m good MOST of the time so I think it’s OK.

If you drink, please be careful and either save it for once a week...like on a Saturday or cheat day...or just have one glass of wine or beer a night and it shouldn’t affect your weight loss too much. I know it can be hard living in a drinking town with a football problem but you can do it!

If you never drink...kudos.

I kind of want a margarita now...lol...oh well...none for me tonight...I like food better!


Bye!

“Blame it on the goose
Got you feeling loose
Blame it on Patron
Got you in the zone
Blame it on the a a a a a alcohol
Blame it on the a a a a a alcohol
Blame it on the vodka
Blame it on the henny
Blame it on the blue top
Got you feeling dizzy
Blame it on the a a a a a alcohol
Blame it on the a a a a a a alcohol.” Alcohol-Jamie Foxx

Tuesday, I Get A Little Sideways...

This day has been a long one and I think it’s only because when I get off work...I’m not just going home...I gotta play softball tonight so I won’t be able to really relax until it’s time to go to bed. Also, I have stuff planned at all times every day this week and on into the weekend...busy, busy. Really I’m just stressed because I don’t see a lot of couch sitting and TV watching in my future. As you can see, my priorities are in order.

I have several random things.

One, my friend Whitney is MOVING BACK TO ALABAMA!!! I’m so excited. That is one of things on this weekend’s agenda is to visit with them and help them get settled in. I know that they have basically been wanting to move back since the moment they left but sometimes you gotta follow a job. That’s what they did but they have both found jobs here and they are coming down this weekend to stay so I hope that they are careful!

Two, I am going to Chattanooga this Sunday to visit my family so that’s always fun. I get to see my family...my new little cousin, my Grandma, Aunt Brenda & Aunt Allie (who has Alzheimer’s). Plus, I get to eat lunch at my Grandma’s house which has been a family tradition for years and years and since we moved to Alabama, we obviously don’t get to do that as much so I always enjoy that.

Three, even though I don’t get to see it live, Idol is on tonight which is exciting. It’s getting down to the wire. The best part about tonight is:



Shania Twain! I created that picture myself by the way (the idol symbol on top of the pic I mean). Anyway, while Shania may not be my favorite artist...she is DEFINITELY Jordan’s and I don’t think the word happy does his feelings for tonight justice. He couldn’t be more excited so because of that...I’m very excited for him. I feel as if none of the singers will do her songs justice (because for the most part the contestants suck)...I know he’ll be happy. I’ll definitely have to watch after the softball game.

I also included this pic below of BFF’s Shania & Jordan shopping one day...she LOVES hanging with Jordan on the weekends.



Fourth, some guy at just worked just asked if I was dieting. “Yes,” I replied. “What are you doing?” he asked. “Weight Watchers,” I said. “Oh, well is that working for you?” he asked. I mean...you know...this man sees me EVERY day. You’d think he could tell. I’m just saying...I’m not mad...mostly I just thought it was funny. I was like...yeah...it’s working for me pretty well.

Fifth and finally, I must counteract the above example of how you can lose 60 pounds and some people still don’t notice. This morning I went upstairs and one of the women there (who has recently lost 60 pounds in 4 months) pulled me aside and said, “I just wanted to tell you privately that you were my inspiration to lose weight. I saw how good you looked and wanted to feel that way too, so thank you.” I was SO TOUCHED. That is AMAZING to hear. I told her thank you so much for telling me that and that we can now inspire each other because it just keeps getting harder. It’s always nice to get those boosts. I’m lucky enough to have friends and family that will always support me but it’s always a special treat when someone that holds a more marginal place in your life says something like that.

Well, that’s pretty much it for today. I have a new casserole I want to try but I will wait until I actually make it before I tell you about it. I know I haven’t had very well rounded blogs lately. Maybe I can think of something knowledgeable or interesting to share with you tomorrow...maybe.

Have a great night!

The word inspiration reminded me of this song...lol...I’m not singing this about myself.

“You're the meaning in my life
you're the inspiration.
You bring feeling to my life
you're the inspiration.
Wanna have you near me
I wanna have you hear me sayin':
No one needs you more than I need you.” You’re The Inspiration-Chicago

Woot!

Well y’all...weigh in was good to me this week! I lost 2 pounds last week bringing my total loss to 61 pounds! I changed my picture (finally) and despite the fact that I think it outlines my large head, it’s a pretty decent one. I was looking at my weight tracker thing on Weight Watchers sight and I was at 50 pounds at the end of December so it took me 4 months to lose 10 pounds. That says to me that I need to have more weeks like the last one where I know I’m doing the right things. I don’t mean to say that to diminish the fact that I got to 60 because I’m very happy but I definitely am keeping that knowledge to use for the future.

For instance, as soon as I learned of my 2 pound loss...I proceeded to eat like I haven’t ever eaten before for 2 days. I don’t know if you all remember this or not but I used to only have ONE cheat day on the weekends...NOT TWO. My goal this Saturday is to be good. Even though it’s tempting to run and eat after the weigh in...I need to try to count all my points on Saturday’s and only cheat on Sundays. I know that this will be tough...Saturday’s are always the toughest days to count points but I know I will have better results if I only have one cheat day. All the food sure was good though. I think I remember telling you all that I felt like I was losing weight again...and I was right. I’m not feeling it so much right now though...I’m still recovering from the weekend.

Anyway, onward I suppose. I have to say I MISS those down 2 pound loss weigh ins...it felt good. This weekend was fun. The weather on Friday and Saturday was totally horrendous. There were tornados to the west, north & south of us and it rained like crazy. That ruined the Crawfish boil which I kind of felt bad about because of all the money that was invested. I did however get to enjoy the weekend with Jordan. We went to two poetry readings for the Slash Pine Poetry festival. I got to see a creative writing teacher I had in college and one of my mentors from grad school read...so that was fun. I also got to do a little karaoke Saturday night. It was overall a good weekend and the food included but was not limited to Jimmy Johns, BBQ, boneless wings, hamburgers, biscuits & gravy and other delicious and terrible things...yah...it was RIDICULOUS. I am surprised at my lack of picture taking these days but I didn’t really take any this weekend except for the “Down 60” pictures and one of me and Jordan so I posted those below.

I hope the rest of your Monday is grand!

THIS IS MY DREADED BEFORE PICTURE FIRST...YOU CAN COMPARE IT TO THE DOWN PICTURE AT THE TOP RIGHT OF THE BLOG AND THE ONE BELOW THIS ONE:







This was how I felt Saturday after I weighed:

“It was the perfect day
What I'd give if I could find a way to stay
Lost in this moment now
Ain't worried about tomorrow
When you're busy livin in a perfect day.” Perfect Day-Lady Antebellum

Today, my life is WITH [light] Ranch!

I realize that I shouldn’t be this excited about Light Ranch...but I am. I have another softball game tonight but before I go, I need to eat something so I’m not starving after the game and I don’t have time to go home SO I’m going to McAlister’s. I have recently discovered their “Choose Two” menu (which I may have already told you about) and you get to choose two from potatoes, sandwiches, salads & soups...you get half a serving and all the nutrition facts are on their site. The POINT is they have a grilled chicken salad that has chicken, bacon, cheese and light ranch AND I get a part of a baked potato. I’m pretty excited about it because their light ranch is actually pretty good.

Ok, now that I’ve officially gone overboard & fatted out over light ranch, I should probably move on. Honestly, there isn’t too much to move on to...I don’t have a whole lot going on and I don’t really have any new thoughts that I haven’t spoken or that pertain to weight loss in any way. This will probably be my last blog until Monday. I have a lot going on tomorrow and this weekend...so...I know...I’ll tell you my big weekend plans.

First, Jordan is coming down tomorrow. We are going to the Slash Pine Poetry Festival. If you aren’t a writer or poetry lover, you may not find this interesting. This festival is pretty cool though because it is over the course of a couple of days and they go to all of these different locations in town reading poems. Tomorrow night, the reading is at Kentuck and then on Saturday, there are some on campus, the Bama Theatre and Little Willie’s...just a bunch of cool little venues in Tuscaloosa. We won’t go to all of them BECAUSE there is ALSO a crawfish boil in Tuscaloosa this weekend and we may get to go to it for a little bit. This is the first year they are doing this in Tuscaloosa...there will be local bands, Clay Walker and lots of food and crafts.

Am I the biggest fan of Clay Walker? No. Though I did Google him today and aside from the hat, he’s SORT OF yummy looking.



Anyway, I just think that since Tuscaloosa is so small, and I along with most other people always complain that there is nothing to do here, that I should take up anything that Tuscaloosa has to offer. It’s not my ideal place as I am regularly hearing of things to do in Birmingham which is less than an hour away but I have to say that Tuscaloosa is constantly trying to add new shops and parks...and they are even building an amphitheatre so I have to give credit where credit is due. In addition to both of the festivals, Jordan’s little cousin Saylor Grace is having a birthday party on Saturday and I’m always game for those.

So-as you can see, it’s a packed weekend. Maybe I will take some pictures and post them on Monday.

I hope you all have a great weekend!

Before I go completely...I would like for you to keep my BFF’s Whitney & Xay in your thoughts & prayers! I am sending healthy thoughts!


“Thank you. That will be nice. Yes is being my answer. Easy question.” Aurelia-Love Actually

Working For The Weekend...Again.

I am rushing the crap out of this week. My spirit is already way into the weekend. Alas, it’s only Wednesday so I must be patient. Before I say too much, I have a few housekeeping things.

One, yesterday I mentioned my fave breakfast sandwich. While it would be delicious for breakfast, I would be much more likely to have it for lunch or dinner. Unfortunately, if I spent more than one or two points on breakfast...it would be hard to save for lunch or dinner or a snack. If you are counting points and thought the 5 points for breakfast seemed like a lot...it is...if you want a good one or two point breakfast...try the egg beaters and one piece of toast or a fiber bar...also very filling. I personally love breakfast for dinner so that’s why that sandwich is good.

Two, we had our first softball game last night...as I mentioned yesterday...we lost BUT I played catcher for two innings, made the ball back to the pitcher all but 2 or 3 times, AND I hit the ball. I didn’t technically get a hit because the ball only went about 15 feet so I got out at first but I made contact so...HOLLA!

Third, American Idol was boring last night. My dad LOVED Crystal...maybe he built it up too much because I didn’t think it was THAT awesome. I think she’s great (and the most talented) and probably my pick but honestly...it is starting to sound the same from her every week. Personally, I’m not real excited about any of them at this point. Glee was also great BUT the last few minutes got cut off and I, along with a few others, was totally disgusted...anyway...I can catch the last bit online later.

Fourth, this spring allergy thing is out of control. I woke up this morning feeling like a swarm of bees had dropped their pollen off in my throat. I think that explains at least some of my lethargy today...blech...I need a Benadryl and a two day nap.

Fifth, I think that’s it actually...I just do things in 5’s.

So, I don’t have much to say except that I really hope I lose that pound this week because I would love to share a new picture with you and I think 60 is a big landmark...literally big. Have you all ever seen on these weight loss shows where they make you run a race carrying weights that add up to the amount of weight that you’ve lost? I think it’d be pretty hard to run with 60 pounds of weights in my hands...so that kind of puts it into perspective. The good news is that even if I don’t lose the pound this week, I kind of feel like I’m on the downward slope again. It’s weird because I think my body sends me signals. It’s taken me 3 months to lose almost 10 pounds...that is a WAY slower progression than the first 50 but I am being good most of the time so I should be headed in the right direction now and I actually feel like my body is in weight loss mode again. It could be that I’m just hungry right now but hopefully, my feelings are right.

One other thing, I think I have talked about the show Parenthood before. It has Lauren Graham who I really like and it’s sort of like NBC’s version of Brothers & Sisters. While it isn’t quite on that level yet, it’s AWESOME. It’s funny, there are many tear jerker moments and it’s very relatable. I am really enjoying it. I think you can watch all of the episodes on hulu.com or nbc.com if you are interested. What’s even better is that I was just wondering yesterday if it would get a second season and Jordan saw online that it was being picked up!!! That’s great because I can’t stand when a show I like gets canceled right away.




OK-I think that was all. I am predicting that Siobhan or Aaron will get kicked off Idol tonight...I think that may be less of a prediction and more of a hope.

Have a good night!

“What if we stopped having a ball?
What if the paint chips from the wall?
What if there's always cups in the sink?
What if I'm not what you think I am?
What if I fall further than you?
What if you dream of somebody new?
What if I never let you win,
and
chase you with a rolling pin,
Well, what if I do?” Giving Up-Ingrid Michaelson

I'm Not Fakin', You Can Have Bacon!

It is much less hectic today thank goodness. Yesterday was a very busy day. The good news is that I had enough points to have McDonald’s for dinner and catch up on some TV. I managed to get my lazy butt out of bed this morning and work out. That was the first time I have gotten up and got on the treadmill in awhile. I’ve been walking at night because I think the morning was wearing me out. I did a couple miles and I just go so much faster on the treadmill so I’m pretty sore. My knees are what hurts today. I’m not sure if the hurt is because I worked out hard and it was beneficial or if the hurt is a warning sign...I don’t want my knees to go completely bad...I need them so I may slow down a little from now on if I’m on the treadmill. Either way, I don’t think it’s a bad thing to slow it down sometimes. I can mix it up. No matter what, I’m still moving and getting all of my steps in. I told myself I need to get up again tomorrow morning but we will see what happens.

It’s interesting because I’ve done a lot of thinking/talking about Egg Beaters this morning. I was going to tell you all about a sandwich I had yesterday with Egg Beaters and it just so happened that Nish texted me this morning asking me if I ate them because they were filling AND a girl from work asked me if I have eaten them before because she had some today...so I got egg beaters on the brain. I think I’ve talked about eating them before. Are they the world’s most delicious egg? No. Would I rather eat real scrambled eggs with cheese? Yes. Do they smell like a mixture of aluminum and sulfur while cooking? Yes. Do they make a good, filling substitute to have for breakfast? Yes. Nish said she eats a serving (which is about ¼ cup) and a piece of light wheat toast and it’s only 1 point. I have been getting the ones that have two servings. It comes in packs of three and each pack is about the size of a pudding cup. They say that each cup has 2 servings...this still only adds up to about 60 calories (one serving only has about 30) which is still only one point. So, that’s pretty good...you get a bowl of scrambled eggs for 1 point...throw some salt & pepper on them and it’s not too bad.

Anyway, the sandwich had bread...I know I’ve talked about Nature’s Own before...but it’s great and you get 2 pieces for 1 point if you get the 40 calorie, honey wheat kind.



Egg Beaters...which I talked about before.



Cheese. I can’t stand fake cheese. Sargento makes a reduced fat Colby Jack that is only 40 calories and one point per slice and it tastes REALLY good. I can only ever find it at Wal-Mart though.



Bacon. I think this is the right brand...You can just pop this bacon in the microwave for like 20 seconds and put it on the sandwich. The best part is you get 4 pieces for 70 calories which is only 2 points. Also, I’d like to apologize for the incredibly cheesy title...I like things that rhyme.



Basically, you can have a bacon, egg & cheese sandwich for 5 points and it’s pretty good. I think it might be my new thing.

Ok-today is the first softball game. If you will remember from my story...it should be interesting. I’m not even sure that I’ll play but I will be there to cheer Nichole & Cassandra on. I’m not too thrilled about missing Idol but there are more important things right?

Peace out.

“They say all's fair
In love and war
But I won't need to fight it
We'll get it right and we'll be united

And I know that we can be so amazing
And being in your life is gonna change me
And now I can see every single possibility

And someday I know it'll all turn out
And I'll work to work it out
Promise you, kid, I'll give more than I get
Than I get, than I get, than I get

Oh, you know it'll all turn out
And you'll make me work so we can work to work it out
And I promise you kid to give so much more than I get
Yeah, I just haven't met you yet.” Haven’t Met You Yet-Michael Buble

Does That Blue Moon Ever Shine On You?

Wow...what a Monday. I haven’t had time to do anything but get belligerent about the traffic, work and upload a few pictures below. I had a very fun weekend. I lost a pound on Saturday morning which means I am down 59! So, that was good...it was about time I lost a little weight. I went to tailgate for the A-Day game and surprisingly I got no pictures of that part of my day. I DID take pictures of my brother before prom and then I went out with some friends Saturday night. Sunday, I got to relax, lay by the pool, catch up on some TV and ate an awesome dinner.

The first picture below is of David and I about 8 years ago before my prom and then the one below that is of me and him before his prom this weekend. I can’t believe how tall he is and I am very happy to have him in my life...we are very close and look out for each other. I worry until I am sick about him but I know that he’s a good kid.

Anyway, like I said...it’s been a crazy day so enjoy the pictures and I will chat more tomorrow!













Have a great afternoon!

The lyrics below are funny to me...Jordan will understand. Since I’m talking about prom...this was the theme song and the theme as a whole to my senior prom...terrible.

“Day by day, we let love just walk away
And I'll be the first to say, I was glad to see it go
And day by day, ever since you went away
I find that I'm still missin' you, and I've just got to know

Does that blue moon ever shine on you
I want to hold you close to me, feel just like it used to be
And baby, if you feel like I do
You can come to me
Does that blue moon ever shine on you

On my mind, you were right there all the time
I could search and never find someone that does me like you do
Here's the part where I'm givin' you my heart
I was a fool to let you go, girl, I've just got to know

Does that blue moon ever shine on you
I want to hold you close to me, feel just like it used to be
And baby, if you feel like I do
You can come to me
Does that blue moon ever shine on you

Night after night, I look to the stars
Wonderin' where you might be
And I've thought to myself, is that very same moon
Shinin' on you, like it's shinin' on me

Does that blue moon ever shine on you
I want to hold you close to me, feel just like it used to be
And baby, if you feel like I do
You can come to me
Does that blue moon ever shine on you?” Does That Blue Moon Ever Shine On You-Toby Keith

"Oh I miss those days as the years go by..."

I made it to the weekend! I just want to thank God and Mother Nature for the progression of days, music on my iPod for making the daylight hours less miserable, people that I talk to on a regular basis: Jordan, Nish, Cassandra, Nichole, Mom, for making the time go by faster, and last but not least, my dearest readers...all 10’s of you...you helped me get to the weekend by reading all of my complaining...thanks to you the most.

As you can tell, I’m very excited to experience a much needed 2 days off. I have a very busy weekend ahead of me. Before, I discuss that...I was going to tell you about the Special K Fruit Crisps...remember me talking about them?



A week or so ago, I was talking about a commercial for these and how they weren’t here yet. Well, Nish was in Birmingham and they had them there so she brought me some. I tried the blueberry this morning and they were VERY good. They are small but you get 2, they have icing, they are only 100 calories (2 points) and they taste A LOT like Poptarts...so I was really excited. Thanks Nish!

Ok-so, in case you didn’t know (which I’m sure you do), tomorrow is A-Day. A-Day is a scrimmage football game that happens every spring with the Alabama players. It’s a chance for people to put a little football in the needle and shoot up so they can (barely) hold out until football season starts again in the fall. I’m going to tailgate and possibly go to the game. First though, I have lots going on. I have to weigh (ugh), take my car in for an oil change and find time for a little exercise. Plus, sometime after the game starts, I am going to take pictures of my brother and his girlfriend before his first prom. Wow...I almost cried typing that. It hadn’t really occurred to me that my brother is almost a grown up. Geez...I better take a nerve pill so I can hold it together in front of his friends. I just saw a picture the other day of me before my senior prom and David was standing beside me...he was only at my hip and now he’s going to prom. I wish I had a scanner so I could show you that picture. I may try to scan it so I can compare an old picture and one from tomorrow that I take. Either way, I will share pictures from this weekend on Monday’s blog.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend filled with great memories. I guess I should be happy that the week days go by slow...I shouldn’t wish my life away...but sometimes I can’t help it.

Bye!

“She grew up on a side of the road
Where the church bells ring and strong love grows
She grew up good
She grew up slow
Like American honey

Steady as a preacher
Free as a weed
Couldn't wait to get goin'
But wasn't quite ready to leave
So innocent, pure and sweet
American honey

There's a wild, wild whisper
Blowing in the wind
Calling out my name like a long lost friend
Oh I miss those days as the years go by
Oh nothing's sweeter than summer time
And American honey

Get caught in the race
Of this crazy life
Trying to be everything can make you lose your mind
I just wanna go back in time
To American honey, yea

There's a wild, wild whisper
Blowing in the wind
Calling out my name like a long lost friend
Oh I miss those days as the years go by
Oh nothing's sweeter than summer time
And American honey

Gone for so long now
I gotta get back to her somehow
To American honey

Ooh There's a wild, wild whisper
Blowing in the wind
Calling out my name like a long lost friend
Oh I miss those days as the years go by
Oh nothin's sweeter than summer time
And American honey
And American honey.” American Honey-Lady Antebellum

Irritable.

You guys...it’s almost Friday. Thank. The. Good. Lord. I have been looking forward to weekends more than usual lately. I think it’s because I know it will be awhile before my next day off. During the holidays, you have several off days to look forward to and then I had Paris...but now...I think the next holiday is Memorial day and that’s over a month away. So, I value the weekends...a LOT. I have a pretty busy Saturday...I’ll tell you more about it tomorrow but Sunday should be pretty relaxed...it should be a pretty nice weekend...it will be even nicer if I have a good weigh in. I’m kind of anxious about it honestly. We will see how it goes.

I hope all of you have turned in your taxes and I hope it wasn’t bad for you. I still get money back because I don’t make a lot or own anything so I filed my taxes before most of you even opened your W-2’s. Mine were done in February so I’m all good there. I wish I could file again to be honest...it was nice.

Do you ever want to just look someone in the face and go, “Please, just shut up and get a grip on your life?” I do. I never knew that becoming an adult would not spare me from the petty, ridiculous drama that I was surrounded by in high school. Grown adults can and often do act like complete morons. I just want to shake some people and be like, “What on EARTH makes you think that your problems are more important than anyone else’s?” Boo. I mean I realize that I pout and whine a lot but I do make an effort not to make every tiny annoyance in my life equivalent to slavery or the holocaust...I’m serious...I know people that literally think they have it worse than anyone on the planet. It’s kind of like the blog I wrote where people always respond, “Welcome to my world.” If you want to win in a “I have it worse” contest, that’s fine but I don’t want to hear about it. What’s funny is...typically...when people have that many problems that they blame on others...the common denominator is always them. How about you look at yourself for once? Perhaps you are the one that needs to be readjusted. I don’t know...I swear...people are so stupid and selfish and don’t have a grip on their own life but they have an opinion on how you should live yours.

Wow...honestly...I didn’t really expect that rant. It came out of nowhere. Actually, I know exactly where it came from. I have a couple people in my life that are what I like to call “toxic.” Normally, I remove these people but in some situations...you really can’t help it. The moral of the story is...if you are stuck with a friend, relative or coworker that is toxic and you can’t get out of it...well...I don’t know what to do about it. If you find the answer, would you mind sharing it with me? I tend to smart off at the mouth when I’m irritated or I get mean out of nowhere and honestly...who does that benefit? If you still have to deal with it or it makes the situation even worse...you are back at square 1.

Even though I got nothing solved and managed to rant aimlessly this whole time...I feel better...lol...I’m sorry if you don’t.

This is still sort of a fresh topic to me at this point...so I don’t have much else to say. I SWEAR I will be in a better, more chipper mood tomorrow. Have a good night! It’s trivia night!

“Don't call it a comeback
I been here for years
Rockin my peers and puttin suckas in fear
Makin the tears rain down like a MON-soon
Listen to the bass go BOOM
Explosion, overpowerin
Over the competition, I'm towerin
Wreckin shop, when I drop these lyrics that'll make you call the cops
Don't you dare stare, you betta move
Don't ever compare
Me to the rest that'll all get sliced and diced
Competition's payin the price

I'm gonna knock you out (HUUUH!!!)
Mama said knock you out (HUUUH!!!).” Mama Said Knock You Out-LL Cool J

Over The Hill

First, I watched Glee last night and it totally lived up to my expectations. Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch) is hilarious and I LOVE the music. They did a cover of Lionel Richie’s “Hello,” and I have always loved that song so I was happy. Second, I would like to give a shout out/apology to my roommate Cassandra for deleting Brothers & Sisters when she hadn’t finished it. I thought she was through but I should have made absolute sure because deleting someone’s show from the DVR is like saying, “I’m so sorry but I ran over your dog and then peed on your car.” So-I assured her I would be more careful. For the record, she was very cool about it. Third, I would like to give another shout out but this time it’s a big CONGRATS to my friend Nichole. She has accepted an offer to become a Grad/PHD student at CUNY in New York this fall. She’s real smart about history and all that junk. Just kidding...she totally deserves it and even though we will miss her...I’m so excited...I mean what a new and awesome journey! Not to mention the fact that I totally have a floor and/or couch to sleep on if I want to visit New York in the next 7 or so years.

Ok, so this is where you all start to roll your eyes at me. I’ve never been the type to care about my age...then again...I’ve never really needed to...I’m only 25 years old. I don’t have a problem telling people how old I am and I know there is only one alternative but I have to be honest...my 26th birthday is coming up in less than a month and I’m not excited about it. I know it’s stupid...I get it...but I will be closer to 30 than 20 and well...boo. I mean, I realize you can’t stay 22 forever and in theory, I’m on a decent track...I have the degrees I planned for and a job...but I am feeling sort of stagnant right now. When I was in high school, I looked forward to college. In college, I looked forward to grad school...and now...um...because of what society says...I guess I should be looking for a husband. I’ve never really done anything the easy way or what people think the natural order of things should be...that’s just not me. I know that eventually everyone has to grow up and settle into what they are going to be doing...I just didn’t realize it would come up this fast. Honestly, I’m not that stressed about the birthday...just not excited. I remember being a kid and thinking about my birthday months ahead. My brother started planning for his 16th birthday when he was 12. Now, I’m like...meh...I ask for practical stuff and look forward to cake I shouldn’t eat and move on.

Is there a particular birthday year that stressed any of you out? I hear that 30 is the worst...at least I have time before that but I guess the point is that I know it will FLY by. I kind of feel like this is my last chance to lose weight. The doctor will stop saying that I need to lose weight while I’m “still young,” and just be like...good luck with that metabolism thing. Anyway, I know I’m not old and everyone that I’ve told this to sort of scoffs and thinks it’s ridiculous but I should say that I’m not depressed about my age it just feels like something is looming and I can’t figure out what it is...30 can’t be that bad. I will just feel good to get there.

Speaking of feeling old...it’s like I’ve gone backwards in the soreness department after a walk or run. I was doing great and not really suffering but this week is pretty ridiculous...even my ribs hurt. I know I complained about this yesterday...I’m just wondering if I need to get a heating pad or something or if I injured myself. Whatever...I must push forward!

I hope you all have a fantastic night!

“Hey world
what you say
should I stick around for another day or two
don't give up on me,
I won't give up on you
just believe in me like I believe in you

Tell me why on the corner
all the kids that used to come to run here
load the guns here
and tell me why
it's okay
to kill in the name of the gods we pray.

Tell me who said it's okay
to die in the name of the lies we say.
Tell me why there's child soldiers.
Tell me why they closed the borders.
Tell me how to fight disease
and tell me now won't you please.

The only thing I want to do
is to be in the arms of someone who believes in me
like I believe in you
I try try try try
I try try try try for you
don't give up on me
and I cry cry cry cry
I cry cry cry cry for you
just believe in me
like I believe in you.” Hey World (Don’t Give Up Version)-Michael Franti & Spearhead

I'm In The Glee Club!

Hey y’all. You will be happy (or feel indifferent) to know that I dragged my butt out of the bed this morning to get on the treadmill...and it wasn’t for a lack of trying to convince myself to go back to sleep either. Now I can just go home and relax for the rest of the night...after I take a short walk at my apartment to make sure that I get all my steps in for the day. There are going to have to be some days where I walk 3 or 4 miles instead of 2 to keep up with my goal...I need to get on that...not today though. I’m sleepy and everything is still not feeling right...my knees hurt, my back hurts...I’m a hot mess for some reason. Maybe I need to bathe in some Bengay or something.

So-you know how I mentioned the parties we always have for people at work? There is another one on Friday. The guy we are bringing stuff for is anti-vegetable so everyone is chipping in on WINGS. Boo. I did offer to bring a side dish but I decided I might actually bring something healthy that I can eat that he will eat too. He hates all vegetables including things like corn and salsa that most people like...any recipe suggestions? I will probably do something from Weight Watchers and just see if I can deceive people...maybe they will not be able to tell that it’s healthy. We will see...people are pretty perceptive about food around here. I can’t tell you how excited I am to know that all day Friday I will be able to smell hot wings and cake that I can’t eat. It’s gonna be AWESOME.

Today is one of those days where I don’t really have a focus and I’m not going to yammer on forever. I will mention that tonight is Idol night AND Glee is finally back!



I know that there are many naysayers about this show but if you don’t like cheesy musicals then I would say you probably aren’t going to like Glee. I freaking love ALL musicals so I highly enjoy watching Glee so I am super excited that it’s back on. The music is awesome and it’s not one of those shows where it’s all death and drama...it’s fun...so...yes...I’m happy it’s coming back on. It should be a good night of TV. I still have a lot to catch up on but I’d rather watch that tonight instead of Parenthood which I love but makes me cry and/or the Brothers and Sisters from Sunday that I heard makes you want to jump from a high building.

I hope you all enjoy whatever you will be watching on TV tonight!

“We're planning on smacking them down like the hand of God.” Artie Abrams-Glee

“Sue, that is an orgy of evidence stacked against you!” Principal Figgins-Glee

“Get ready for the ride of your life Will Schuester. You're about to board the Sue Sylvester Express. Destination horror!” Sue Sylvester-Glee

“I'm so sorry. I fully understand if you want to beat me up. Just avoid my nose.” Rachel Berry-Glee

“I say we lock Rachel up until after sectionals. I volunteer my basement.” Kurt Hummel-Glee

Here Comes The WAAAAAMMMMBULANCE!

Today, I am still recovering from softball practice on Saturday. We went out there for a couple of hours and between the throwing and batting...my back and arms are KILLING me and have been since Sunday morning. It was decent exercise...I think I could definitely get more from walking or running but any activity is good. I’m not the best softball player but it breaks the exercise monotony and you all know how I like to have some variety.

I didn’t bother weighing in on Saturday. I weighed at my apartment Saturday morning and I had gained a pound. I have been working my behind off so I was VERY disappointed and was not willing to drive all the way across town for them to be able to put me down as gaining weight in black and white. I hope that Weight Watchers was wrong about gaining weight while you are on your cycle because that is the only justifiable reason I can think other than just plain bad luck. Yes, I cheat some on the weekends but I exercise to make up for that and I eat what I’m supposed to during the week so I don’t think it’s fair to give up any resemblance of good food. JEEZ. I will do my best to do better on the weekends but if I don’t have cheating opportunities...I’M GOING TO CRACK.

Because I was so bitter Saturday, I did the stupid thing and indulged myself in many ways so Sunday morning...I didn’t feel great. I got my act together, showered, picked myself up (after I stopped for breakfast) and walked 4 miles. I went by the river...it’s really nice down there if you ever get the chance. I normally like to go on the treadmill so I can get in and out of there and on with my day. Sunday, however, was a day that I needed to scold myself. So, I got out there and it was pretty, and I took my time (It took me an hour and a half) and honestly, the time flew by. Sometimes, I really like to be alone...not always...but when I walk...I prefer it. I know I’m weird but I don’t care. I can’t be responsible for anyone’s physical fitness but my own and I think it’s important to do what is comfortable to you. I don’t think I can go 4 miles every day but it really wasn’t that bad...especially since I was going kind of slow. Having said that, I couldn’t pull myself out of bed this morning so I will join my mom on her walk today...she likes to walk with other people so that’s always good if I don’t manage to get out of the bed in the morning.

I know that I should have a better attitude but when you get to a certain point, encouraging words are not helpful...when people tell you to be happy with what you’ve done and that I shouldn’t be upset...it doesn’t really help (not that I don’t appreciate the well wishes...I just can never be satisfied)...I know I’ve done well but I am nowhere near the finish line. I have always enjoyed life via good food and I know I’m not the only one. Having said that, it’s been really hard to find other ways to enjoy life other than eating and drinking...it ain’t easy. I like music and my family and friends but guess what...most of the best times we’ve had together involve food...so...I’m learning.

I think I’ll stop whining now. I don’t know why but I’ve always been a whiner. In high school, the teachers give out awards to all of the seniors and not one...but two teachers gave me whining awards. Say what you want...the whining may be annoying at times but if it weren’t for my whining (or what I like to call persistent opinion giving) I wouldn’t have passed Geology OR British Lit in college...so...don’t knock it until you try it. I think the difference between me and most whiners is that I mix the whining with action. I’m not a lazy whiner...I get things done and whine the whole way. I’m very stubborn and don’t like to be told what to do...I like to get things done my own way but I do tend to talk about them excessively as I do it...as you can see...I have a blog for goodness sakes. Perhaps I will tone down my obsession with this plateau I’ve hit...or at least I will try my best to tone it down...I’m obviously impatient.



Feel free to roll your eyes at me but if you made it this far...you might as well see what I’m whining about tomorrow.

Holla.


“Musics up
Listen hot stuff
I'm in love
With this song
So just hush
Baby shut up
Heard enough

Stop t-t-talkin' that
Blah blah blah.” Blah Blah Blah-Ke$ha

My Head & My Heart Have Been On The Dance Floor For Hours

I have been doing a mental “It’s Friday!” dance all day long. I am very ready for the weekend. I actually got up this morning and got on the treadmill. It’s been a very long time since I worked out on Friday but it wasn’t bad at all. In fact, I randomly decided to change it up a bit this morning...I decided instead of running at 4mph for a minute or 2 and then walking 3mph for a minute or 2 that I would increase more slowly so I started at 3, then went to 3.5, then walked at 4 instead of running and then ran at 4.5 and then I would come down and instead of instantly going from 4.5 to 3, I went 4.5, 4, 3.5 and 3. I did this and got my fastest mile ever (16:12)!!! I was so surprised. I looked down and I was like...hey...I might beat my own record here. The best part was that since I paced myself, I wasn’t completely worn out for the second mile so it didn’t take me much longer than the first...I did both miles in 32 minutes and 56 seconds. I felt pretty empowered when I got done...for some reason I thought that because I shaved a few minutes off my time that I could pace myself getting ready for work. Anyway, I was pleased.

So-My friend Whitney is in town y’all. I love it when she is here. Here is a picture of her Mya:



Mya is so cute and sweet. Hopefully she will start remembering me soon! See, I like the fact that Whitney and another friend of mine, Stacey, have kids because whenever I’m feeling maternal, I can borrow theirs. I love Mya and Alex and Alivia...oh yah...and my brother. See, I got kids of all ages. The best part is, they don’t live with me or leave backwash in my drink. I do worry about my brother as if he were my son though...and that is no fun. I think if I had to pick the number one reason I’m scared to have kids...that would be it. I’m a worrier and my brother is 16 and he scares me to death. He’s a good kid so I can only imagine how worried I would be if he weren’t.

Anyway, I’m glad Whitney and her husband Xay and Mya are here. I love to see them so hopefully we will get to hang out some this weekend...and way more in the future. The only other stuff I got going on this weekend is a weigh in, softball practice and some much needed TV time.

I know that there are a plethora of run-on sentences and punctuation errors in today’s blog...more than usual but I am no mood to be an editor today...besides...you all know by now that I write like I talk so hopefully you won’t have any problems reading it.

I hope you all have an awesome weekend!

“Not that I don't like you: I'm just at a party
And I am sick and tired of my phone ri-ringing
Sometimes I feel like I live in Grand Central Station
Tonight I'm not takin no calls 'cause I'll be dancin'
'Cause I'll be dancin'
'Cause I'll be dancin'
Tonight I'm not takin' no calls 'cause I'll be dancin!

Stop callin', stop callin'; I don't wanna think anymore!;
I got my head and my heart on the dance-floor
Stop callin', stop callin'; I don't wanna talk anymore!;
I got my head and my heart on the dance-floor

Stop callin', stop callin'; I don't wanna think anymore!;
I got my head and my heart on the dance-floor
Stop callin', stop callin'; I don't wanna talk anymore;
I got my head and my heart on the dance-floor.” Telephone-Lady Gaga (Featuring Beyonce Knowles)

"Eat This, Not That" - David Zinczenko

I got to bed late last night and did the thing where I couldn’t get to sleep until 11 and then woke up at 12:30 thinking it was time to get up. About 5 minutes after that, I heard a very big knock at my front door and then it sounded like someone was in the apartment...my roommate wasn’t there but I was SO freaked out that I called her and made her and her boyfriend come make sure no one was there. Luckily, everything was fine but there was no way I was going to get any sleep after that. I laid in bed wide awake for a long time. I finally got to sleep but when 5:30 came around there was no way that I could get up so now I have to walk after work...I DESPISE working out after work. Anyway, I gotta do what I gotta do right? I may even do it again tomorrow...I need a good night of sleep. I think I will skip trivia night tonight and lay low. Before I sleep though I HAVE to see Whitney! She is in town this weekend so I’m excited to see her.

The only thing I really wanted to show you today is some links and a book that I am loving (I don’t actually have it but I would love to read it). David Zinczenko, author of “Eat This, Not That!”, is always doing segments on the Today Show.



I really like him because even though we all know we could make better choices at restaurants, we don’t REALLY know the magnitude of some dishes. I especially love when he makes comparisons like...if you eat one of the chicken pasta dishes (not sure which one) from Cheesecake Factory (probably my favorite restaurant and one of the worst places to eat) it’s like eating 62 pieces of bacon. The Kid’s Alfredo dish there...you could eat 40 chicken nuggets. It’s comparisons like those that really make you think. Sure, a dinner that exceeds 2,000 calories sounds bad but if they tell you that you can eat 3 Big Macs instead...it’s kind of an eye opener. He also tells you the worst of the worst in side dishes and desserts (I included some links below, hopefully they will work...if not...google Eat This, Not That and you will find the same things I did). The worst food used to be Outback’s cheesy, bacony, ranchy fries but now they have topped themselves...a full rack of ribs there is 3,021 calories and I think over 200 grams of fat...I mean....wow.

Anyway, if you really think about what you are eating before you eat it...you may change your mind...or you may not...lol...I know it doesn’t matter what I know about the food sometimes...I still want it.

Here are the links:

This is one from the Today Show:

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/36134797/ns/today-today_health/

Some examples from that link:

Worst chicken appetizer

Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken Quesadilla
• 2,141 calories
• 133 g fat (61 g saturated fat)
• 3,477 mg sodium

Worst chicken entree in America

The Cheesecake Factory Farfalle with Chicken and Roasted Garlic
• 2,579 calories
• 62 g saturated fat
• 1,983 mg sodium

20 Best Restaurant Foods
http://eatthis.menshealth.com/slide/best-blended-coffee-drink?slideshow=98419#title

20 Worst Restaurant Foods
http://eatthis.menshealth.com/slide/worst-side-dish?slideshow=98441#title

Enjoy...mostly these just make you depressed and like Jordan said earlier...hungry.

Hopefully there will be no more weird instances this evening and I will sleep well...I hope the same for you all!

“Big girls need love too...” I Like The Way You Move-Outkast

Fat Days

This week is chugging right along. Miss Mullet Muffin Top stole my treadmill this morning but I am trying not to be dramatic about it...at least not in this forum...I’ve complained about it to Jordan and my Mom but they are very used to me going on and on about things. I had some crazy dreams last night about high school and shootings and witches...some days I think I should write all this down...I mean...witches...really? Maybe that is the Harry Potter revelation I’ve been waiting for...I need to write about witches.

I went to McAlister’s for lunch with my Mom today. Like a company should, McAlister’s posts their nutritional data...they have this “Choose 2” option where you can choose any two of either a sandwich, Panini, spud, soup or salad. It’s great...you go to that food item on their nutrition page and cut the nutrition facts in half because you only get half of each. You can figure out the points and they have lots of good stuff. You choose two of those (I got half a grilled chicken salad and a cup of vegetarian chili totaling 8 points) for $5.99. I was pleased...I will eat there more often.

I also watched Idol last night and thought I would give you a brief update. Three things to sum it up. 1.) Even though I know he isn’t always great and makes up notes sometimes that don’t really exist, I love Lee and would like for him to be my husband. 2.) Crystal is sort of not in the same league as the others. She’s not always perfect but she’s consistent and she is a true artist and 100 times better than at least 6 of the 7 other contestants. 3.) If I had to choose the order in which people left now starting with tonight, I would want Aaron Kelly to go, then Katie Stevens, Tim Urban, Siobhan Magnus (though her and Tim are about the same), Michael Lynche, Casey James, Andrew Garcia, Lee Dewyze & then Crystal Bowersox as the winner though I don’t think it matters for her...she’s getting a deal so secretly I hope Lee wins because they can sand down some of those sharp notes in the studio.

Now, to the point I had today. Sometimes it takes me awhile to get there. I was trying to do some research yesterday about whether or not you really have fat days. There are some days when no matter what, I feel fat. I could be at my lowest weight or have a new outfit but still feel fat. I always think if I gain weight while I’m on my “cycle” that it’s not my fault. Unfortunately, I read something on Weight Watchers that totally busted my bubble.

http://www.weightwatchers.com/util/art/index_art.aspx?tabnum=1&art_id=42321&sc=801

With that time of the month comes water retention, Weight Watchers says: “The most likely reason for a weight gain is water retention. While this is a common symptom that can be particularly discouraging when following a structured food plan, the weight gain is usually minor and temporary (that is, any weight that is gained is lost around the time of menstruation).” So- basically, it shouldn’t make much of a difference. Well, at least I know why I crave chocolate right? “Although food cravings are commonly reported during certain times of the menstrual cycle, the scientific evidence on the subjects is limited.” They do admit that there is a SMALL connection to the sweets but they aren’t really budging. I really don’t care what they say...I get crazy for chocolate. The most annoying quote: “While there may be minor changes in metabolism, food intake and cravings throughout the menstrual cycle in addition to possible water retention, these will not impact weight-loss success.” Whatever they say I guess.

Still, I know that some days...no matter what I do...I feel fat. I found the picture below on the internet and thought it was cute.



We have to remind ourselves sometimes that what we see isn’t what everyone else sees. Sometimes, I even see a caricature of myself...or at least I HOPE that’s what it is. The next time you think you are really bloated or that your cycle is making you fatter...remember it’s probably in your head...you actually look hot...at least that’s what I try to say to myself...sometimes it isn’t always convincing.

Talk with you all tomorrow.

“You can’t stop my happiness
Cause I like the way I am
And you just can't stop my knife and fork
When I see a Christmas ham,
so if you don't like the way I look
Well, I just don't give a damn!

Cause the world keeps spinning
Round and 'round
And my heart's keeping time
To the speed of sound
I was lost til I heard the drums
Then I found my way.” You Can’t Stop The Beat-Hairspray (The new movie/musical soundtrack)

Party Pooper

Hello everyone! I take it your Tuesday has been filled with good things...or at least I hope it has. Mine has been busy but OK. I haven’t done anything out of the ordinary today. I exercised, ran errands at lunch...the usual.

I wanted to use my space today to complain. It’s not really anyone’s fault but it’s still annoying. We celebrate birthdays at my workplace. Not only do we have like a once a month celebration or anything, we go all out for every birthday in the department. There are 16 people in my department so the birthday celebrations are a little excessive if you ask me. I do think it’s nice but it makes it REALLY difficult when you are trying to diet. There is a good chance I have blogged about this very thing and if I have I’m sorry but I’m not going to lie...with 16 of these extravagant office parties a year...I may have something to say about it every time. Today alone there are chips & dip, Rotel dip, corn dip, chicken salad dip, someone brought ham biscuits from a breakfast place around here, cookies, crackers & cake. That is all I could see but I didn’t go within 50 feet of the stupid table. Usually, I bring something like vegetables or fruit or baked chips but I’m the only one that ever eats them and I’m still using points I wouldn’t normally use so this time I decided I would just sit out. It’s too hard for me to say that I will just eat a little bit. I didn’t get this healthy figure by only eating one serving of food from a table wide open with treats. When I first started Weight Watchers I had a much better attitude about all of the eating going on around me. I would give myself pep talks and resist but now it just makes me angry. I mean, do you know what it’s like for someone like me to sit here all day with the smell of melted cheese filtering in my nose and not go try to physically bathe in the crock pot. It’s like putting a heroin needle in the peripheral vision of a heroin addict...it’s WRONG. Not only that but we are having softball practice Saturday and the email said there would be a cookout to follow. It’s like you can’t get people to go to work or work functions unless there is food involved. Then there is “Big Friday” when the WHOLE company brings a dish...and that is once a MONTH. I swear I work for the fattest company ever.

There. I feel better. I think the easiest way to avoid it is to not even try to assimilate. I think from now on I just won’t bring anything and just suffer through the smell because it’s too hard to try and only eat a little or eat apple slices while everyone else has pure fatty goodness. I did very well...I’m OK now...just ready to be at home so I can eat my Lean Cuisine in peace.

One other thing...there are these new things called Fruit Crisps from Special K. I’ve seen the commercial and Nish told me about them but I can’t find them anywhere. They are like little Pop Tarts and you get two and they are only 100 calories...they are 2 points on Weight Watchers. I would love to try them.




Have you seen them anywhere? They aren’t at Wal-Mart or Target that I could find...even online on the Special K site where it says “Buy on Amazon,” the link takes you to all the Special K products you can buy and they aren’t on there. Maybe they just aren’t in Alabama yet but if you have seen them let me know. Maybe I’m just not looking in the right place or something.

Ok-I think I have rambled on long enough today. Have a great evening! It’s Idol night!

“So tired that I couldn't even sleep
So many secrets I couldn't keep
Promised myself I wouldn't weep
One more promise I couldn't keep

It seems no one can help me now
I'm in too deep
There's no way out
This time I have really led myself astray

Runaway train never going back
Wrong way on a one way track
Seems like I should be getting somewhere
Somehow I'm neither here nor there

Can you help me remember how to smile
Make it somehow all seem worthwhile
How on earth did I get so jaded
Life's mystery seems so faded

I can go where no one else can go
I know what no one else knows
Here I am just drownin' in the rain
With a ticket for a runaway train

Everything is cut and dry
Day and night, earth and sky
Somehow I just don't believe it

Bought a ticket for a runaway train
Like a madman laughin' at the rain
Little out of touch, little insane
Just easier than dealing with the pain

Runaway train never comin' back
Runaway train tearin' up the track
Runaway train burnin' in my veins
Runaway but it always seems the same.” Runaway Train-Soul Asylum

Here Comes Another Week...

I hope that the Easter bunny was good to everyone. I got a gift card to Charming Charlie’s and some Weight Watchers appropriate snacks...and one bad snack that I made sure to eat on Sunday. It was a really good weekend. I got to hang with Jordan and Cassandra and my family. There was lots of good food that I shouldn’t have eaten. I was able to soak up some sun yesterday at the pool even though the water was FREEZING. I also walked quite a bit between Saturday and Sunday to keep up with my goal...so all in all it was a good weekend. I posted a few pictures below.







I am sleepy today but got right up to do my normal routine and I always feel like I can pat myself on the back when I get up at 5:30. I plan on going to Charming Charlie after work to find a new purse and that ALWAYS makes my mood better. I don’t have too much to say today. I weighed in on Saturday. I was up .8 pounds. I think that is pretty good considering I cheated for 2 weeks and had a beach weekend. Now, I did work really hard...especially exercise wise to only gain that much so I expect to lose this weekend. I’m down 58 pounds even now. If I don’t lose 2 this week that’s fine but I would like to lose at least a pound. I plan on being a good little girl this week so between the correct eating habits and all my exercise, that shouldn’t be a problem. I am hoping the pastries and seafood have completed their mark on my body and that it’s time to move on.

Anyway, I hope you all have a great afternoon and week! I will be back tomorrow with hopefully a little bit more to say.

“Mr. Jones and me staring at the video
When I look at the television, I want to see me staring right back at me
We all want to be big stars, but we don't know why and we don't know how
But when everybody loves me, I'm going to be just about as happy as can be
Mr. Jones and me, we're gonna be big stars...” Mr. Jones-Counting Crows