The Verdict

Hello all,

I have been gone for a little over a week. I was battling the stomach fle and I have just been going through a struggle. My eating has not been all that good; you know stress, bottled up with TOM and the holidays I have been trying to make it through. So, my company moved to a new office building (2miles from the old building). We have a wonderful new space, underground parking, great views, and a really super nice modern space. The gym has expanded and we have tons of new machines, as well as trainers in the building to help with your weight loss and Pilates and yoga classes. It’s something to do for everyone so, there is no excuse if you really want to lose it, its there for you(Open at 6am and closes at 7pm. I have been taking full advantage of that. Monday,, I decided that I would follow-up with the manager regarding the position that I interviewed for. I was supposed to hear back from her by the end of last week, but due to the move to the new building, everyone was getting settled in and I thought the best thing was for me to wait until after the date she initially gave me so I wouldn’t come off pushy. She's presently out of the office until New Year. I was so upset because I really wanted to hear something, but my mom said something that made a lot of sense. She said if you have not heard no, then you are still in the running. I did have a meeting with my direct manager today and he told me that the hiring manager did meet with him to ask about me as a worker and an overall person and he told me that he told her nothing but good things, because his words, "he would never trash me to keep me:). So, I don't know the result just yet, but I am staying positive. I will keep you posted, for sure! Thanks for all of the happy, positive and motivating thoughts and prayers. You gals ROCK!

On a side note: The only downfall of moving to the new building is that all of my blogspots have been blocked:( I will no longer be able to catch up with blogging during my lunch hour, which sucks because the evenings are family time during the week. The upside to that is...I have 1 more day in the office after today and I am out of this joint until 2011!!!!

Weight: I weighed in today and I am so please to say that I am 5lbs away from ONDERLAND! I have lost 3lbs this week. This is the last weigh in for WW for this year. Our company will start it back up second week in January. My ultimate goal is to be in on ONEDERLAND by the the beginning of the next session(January 11th or sooner).

Now, I'm about to catch up on my blogging buddies:)

Confidence:)

So, I have been presently working for the same company for the past 7 years. For the past 5 years, I have been in the same role but, I am not fulfilled, it's just day to day getting in here. Well, I decided that I was going to step out of my comfort zone and apply for a new position that was posted within the company. Usually, that would never happen. I would feel like I was uncomfortable in my skin and the clothes that I'm wearing and not have the confidence to basically brag on my accomplishments. Think about it, that's basically what an interview is....a brag fest! Well, I just finished my interview and let me say, I ROCKED IT! I know I rocked it, I was so super confident, the questions were answered, they shook their head, they kept looking at each othe with the impressed look and I felt soo good afterward! If I got this position it would double my salary, do you know what that would do for my family!? It will be awesome! I deserve it for sure. It's not bad that it would something new for me to do...I'm sort of a computer geek so the job is just that. I am so glad that I applied and I should know something next week if not earlier, and I am well looking forward to letting you know that I got the job! I won't be totally devastated if I don't get it, but I believe I will have it!

Weigh In

Hey,

Let me start off by saying that I stayed the same at weigh in this week. I'm having one of those days. I felt like I worked very hard last week. I am constantly focused on losing this weight, being healthy, living a healthier lifestyle. I have put myself out there with this blog for sure, joining WW and keeping everyone around me in the loop to keep me accountable. But, today after working so hard last week...I stayed the same. I was so frustrated after weigh in today. I'm not going to beat myself up and I know as long as I continue to make healthy decisions, move more I will be successful in this journey. It's just tough to see the scale stay the same when you know you have been working hard prior to weigh in and not just one day but a full week of on plan eating. I debated about even posting that's how irritated I was, but it's not fair to me and to those people who I love to read comments from rooting me on! So, this week I didn't lose and I didn't gain. I am still on track to be in ONEderland by the year end, just bummed that I couldn't see a loss on the scale.

My goals for this week are:
Wednesday-Day 2 of Couch to 5K
Thursday-Cardio Circuit Training
Friday-Zumba
Saturday-Cardio/weight training

I'm really trying my best to focus on the journey but the weight loss is my motivation to stay on it.

Addiction?!

Did I tell you I was a reality TV junkie? No, really, I love alot of the worst "reality" shows. I had to place that word in quotes because, let's be honest, most of it is scripted. Anywho, last night I was watching Celebrity Rehab and during the 1 on 1 sessions with Dr. Drew, the 'celebs' had conversations regarding their addiction. As I listened to a few of them discuss their problems and life issues and their drug of choice I had an 'Aha Moment'. When I am angry, I eat. When I am frustrated, I eat. When I want to get lost in the challenges of life, I eat. And, I don't just eat to feed a hungry belly, I eat until I am sick. I eat until I can no longer think about my problem, but think of the pain in my stomach(like getting high). It's crazy right!? This has been a long journey coming...I once cared about my body and the way I looked. After my grandmother passed, I just ate. She meant everything to me, I didn't live with my mom due to family issues and I felt like a pariah and food was my comfort. I ate to feel comfort. I start addressing my childhood abuse by eating. Man, I feel so many emotions right now, because, although I have been through therapy, my grandmothers death is what triggered my change in eating. It took a while for me to get a better understanding of my relationship with food. I have a love/hate relationship with it. Currently, I am addressing those issues head on. I now know that I need to pay attention to my body. I should eat 3 healthy meals a day using my PointsPlus Plan and pay attention to my body when I am hungry and make good decisions while eating. So far, this has worked. I have been journaling alot and I love having this platform. I love that I can place my inner most feelings out here and feel like I got something off of my chest. Thanks for taking the time to let me get a few things off of my chest. I have an addiction and I'm presently in "rehab" addressing my life choices and this love/hate relationship I have with food.

Goals for the weekend: Kickboxing tonight, Spin tomorrow am and weight training and Sunday Couch to 5K, week 3 begins! It's really not as bad as I initially thought, I like to run!
Weight Watcher PointsPlus Plan has been wonderful. I have been on plan and eating good and I love these two blogs: www.danicasdaily.com and www.hungrygirl.com They have been so helpful with nutrition information as well as yummy recipes, so I can be successful.

Weigh In/Goals/My 2 Cents

Hello!!

Today, I weighed in at -.2 and I'm very pleased. Quite honestly, I thought I would gain, I was on my cycle and Thanksgiving was here and I was craving every bad thing under the sun. Good thing, I didn't have it all, but I did have a few things. I didn't work out on my lunch hour today, and I think I will take today off, but I will get back to it come tomorrow. Who knows...I may do it tonight. Anyway, I have wonderful goals for the month of December. I have dinners, parties, concerts, plays and the such this month and it will be a challenge, but my ultimate goal is to be in 1derland December 31st! I will give myself the entire month this is my personal goal and I am so determined to meet this goal. I have some motivational treats for myself I have been rounding up all of my pictures from last year around this time and the past recent months and I will post them in a couple weeks or so, they will be on a series of Flashback Friday's to keep myself on track and motivated. I also decided that it would be very wise to take my measurements. I was very bummed, when I took them just recently I probably won't post those until the 31st of December as well, just to see where I am on that date to start my new year off fresh.

NSV: I am very pleased to say that I have dropped out of my size 18 pants, as well as my size 16s. I am presently wearing a size 14 and I am very excited about that! I have not worn a size 14 jean in about 4 years! That's huge for me. I also went through my closet trying on clothing and looked silly in my 2x and 1x shirts. I gave them to the Salvation Army. I was in deep denial in between pregnancies and purchased XL pea coats. Very nice coats, if I wore them I couldn't button them or I had to wear a t-shirt and honey it would be cold outside. Well, this past Sunday I wore my pea coat, buttoned, and tied around the waist for the first time ever! Mind you the coats are basically new. I have worn them once or twice before. My husband said, did you go out and buy some new stuff for yourself! I am very pleased where this journey is taking me. I have alot to be thankful for. Maybe the last 1,519,324,619 times that I started this journey really wasn't the time for me to mentally to do this, but this time...is the right time.

My 2 Cents PointsPlus Weight Watchers: I have read so many boards and I have read tons of blogs and alot of people are not giving it a chance at all. I will say this, it is good to try something new. I'm big on change! I will give my review of the program after I have followed it for a week. Today, started the new program and all I can say is YAY for 0 point fruit!

Monday!!!!

Welp, back from the holiday and feeling good. My weekend was wonderful. I absolutely love Thanksgiving! I think its the laid back, chill time to relax and enjoy your family. I'm very blessed and I had time to reflect even more so when my hubby is putting up the tree or my daughter is so excited to pull up the decorations for Christmas or my son is pulling all of those decorations that my daughter and I worked so hard putting up... down. Life's great, we all have our share of ups and downs and honey I am no stranger to it, but I have had the opportunity to reflect, relax and relate with my wonderful hubby and 2 beautiful healthy babies! I love my life!

Anyway, Thanksgiving went very well. I cooked a few things, picked up a few things from my mom and I will say I did very well. I had my cornbread stuffing and I was so happy! I also made for the first time collard greens and those bad boys were the bomb!!! I used greens that were already cleaned(I didn't want to get anyone sick). My daughter helped me make cupcakes and my son made sure to eat as much as he could! We had a blast. The tree is up and the decorations are out around the house. I have a couple things to put up outside of my house and we will be ready to go.

Now, I didn't get any workouts in this weekend, busy chilling with the family, shopping and watching movies. I did, however, decide to hit up the gym last night while the kids spent some time with their daddy. I am on Week 2 of Couch to 5K. It is getting easier, my shins hurt and sometimes my back, but the showers after the workouts are the best! I'm gearing up for my 11am workout with my co-workers. We have Weight Watchers come to work on Tuesdays and tomorrow we will find out about the new program that was rolled out today, hearing alot of rumblings and kind of bummed because I have all of these cool apps on my phone to work with the old points value. Oh well, such is life. I have less than a month to lose 7lbs, to reach my first goal. I will focus on what I eat, plan ahead, work out at least 5 days a week, take the stairs and drink my water! I will keep you posted.

Love Thanksgiving!

I absolutely LOVE Thanksgiving! I spend time with my family, eat good, shop the next day...all day and chill the entire weekend watching movies! Now, that I have decided to change my lifestyle Thanksgiving is still by far my favorite holiday, however, my eating will definitely be different. I am looking forward to one thing, seriously...my mom's cornbread dressing! I know its like 8 points for a cup, but that's one thing I'm not giving up on. I will eat lots of veggies and a little turkey, but I want the dressing she makes it twice a year, Thanksgiving and Christmas and gosh darn it, I will not miss out on it! Dessert is not a big deal for me, I don't care about sweet potato pie and pumpkin rolls and such, so I will enjoy my dressing for dessert later jello with whipped cream.

Weigh In: So, I have been sick the past few days and I have not been eating because it comes back up some way some how. I am determined to feel better by tomorrow, but my belly is still aching today. I had to drop in a WW office yesterday, just to weigh in because I was not feeling it and I was down 2lbs. I'm excited about the loss, and I am trying my best to reach my 1st goal under 200 by Christmas and at this point it's totally doable.

30 Day Shred Update: I was Shredding for about a week and I start talking to co-workers about it and they want to join in. We are moving to a new building for work and in the new workout facility, there will be an aerobic class and we will go in there to do the DVD's there are quite a few on the list, so I will be sure to add that back in but, right now I'm doing the Couch to 5K, Zumba and a Circuit Training class. I want to stay as active as I can during this cold winter season, because come spring, I want to look and feel great in my NEW clothes!

I'm so grateful for my family and many people that I have met while on this journey in the blogging community. I can't say it enough I love having virtual support it makes me want to push myself harder.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!

5 Days

I worked out 5 days last week! 4 during the week and my husband encouraged me to go to the gym on Saturday morning. I did a circuit class and ran for about 20 minutes. I felt great! I had on my sweat suit and I was soaking wet(listen I don't sweat but the obvious places and in my hair) so, the sweat suit makes me feel really good. I was so excited I did so well with my workouts last week. I decided that I wanted Red Lobster for dinner, crab cakes and a salad and some of those biscuits...do you hear what I hear, SABOTAGE! What the hell is wrong with me? I worked out last week. I was so determined that when my workout crew at work didn't workout for 2 days, I did it alone and I had the nerve to go to Red Lobster, nothing on that menu is working with what I have going on right now, but I wanted those biscuits(kept telling my hubby crab cakes). Anyway, I had 5, yes I said FIVE of those damn biscuits and to top it off this cookie desert looked so good I got it and shared with the kids. I got home about 6 pm and I was so mad at myself because my stomach was aching so bad.... Why do I feel the need to do this to myself? I want to lose the weight, I have imagined myself at goal weight, running miles and miles, doing fun stuff with the kiddies, going on family vacations, looking oh so fly in this freakum dress for my 30th next August. Why, the sabotage? Anyway, going to the gym in an hour or so, and picking myself back up. I won't beat myself up anymore. By the way, I was still sick yesterday, so I beat myself up Saturday evening and all day yesterday. I got to get it together.

Really...

My new found love is...running. I know. I know. I can't believe it myself but, I know that I need to step it up and really move and get a good workout in. I hate working out, but the hardest thing is to lace up those shoes and make it up in your mind that you will do it. I don't enjoy it while I'm doing it, but my Playlist on Pandora is always jumping! The hot shower afterwards is what I look forward to and I have so much energy in the evening to do fun stuff with the kiddies and the smiles on their faces makes it all worthwhile. In past Novembers(10 years), I have been sitting on the couch eating oreo cookies, butter pecan ice cream, Fritos, Doritos and every carb I could think of. It's cold outside, let me just enjoy this cold weather and all of the carbs my little heart can hold and so....I eat. But Easter rolls around and spring, then summer and I am so mad at myself that I have not lost any weight so I can wear really cute clothes, or I don't want to show my arms because they are so big. This journey has taught me so much about myself. I've learned that I can start something and see it to it's finish. I am strong and I am human. If I stumble, I dust myself off and get back up the same day to start over. Today, will be workout #4 this week and my goal is to get one more in this weekend. I am determined to get at least 4 in a week at 30 minutes to an hour. I'm still eating as clean as ever, I really don't have a desire for any other meat. I'm loving the variety of fish that I've been cooking and I'm definitely learning something new about myself, this is my journey. I will reach my goal this time.

Weight Watchers Meeting

I weighed in today....I was a bit discouraged last night and had a few things I should not have, but I went HARD in the gym today right before my meeting to make up for it. I made my mini goal and that was to be under 210 and I did it! Slow and steady wins the race. I have to keep telling myself I didn't gain this weight in a short period of time. My goal is to be well under 200 and I am on my way. I will walk this evening in an 8k to open our Lightfest for the holidays and I'm excited about that. I will meet up with some work folks to do so. I just found out today that my work will be bringing in women instructors for Zumba class, starting the new year!!! I'm excited! I would love to do that! I would like to be as active as I can, so I can not get back to this weight again. My daughter will start Tae-Kwon Do and Gymnastics in January, she wants to play soccer in the spring. I have to be active and healthy for my babies, that's the most important thing to me. I believe I can and will do it. I may have some setbacks but, getting back in the game is all that matters in the long run.

Shred Update/Clean Eating

Happy Monday!

So, I have been working out with my trainer, Jillian for the past 5 days and she has been kicking my butt! My knees ache and so does my arms but, I feel good after the workout. I think I will take the day off today, I also workout on my lunch hour while at work. It's great to have a gym at work and I'm silly for after 7.5 years of using it every now and then. But, such is life and now I'm taking full advantage of it and I can't complain! I can't wait to weigh in tomorrow. I have been eating on plan and decided last week that I needed to eat "clean". I have been eating lots of veggies, fruits, tofu, fish and I feel good and I think I will keep this up!

Yesterday, I went to a baby shower for one of my cousins. I ate about 2 hours before I went to the shower. Let me just say what was on the menu, un freaking believable: spaghetti, mac and cheese, baked beans with ground beef and ham, dinner rolls, fried chicken and cakes. There was not a piece of fruit or vegetable on the tables! I don't get together with my entire family(there are lots of us (15 aunts, 3 uncles)) that often, but from now on and in order for me to be successful, I will have to bring my own food. They need some darn vegetables in their lives anyway!

My husband and I went to this huge mall on Saturday with the kiddies. I know it might sound strange but I want to lose weight so I can shop at Forever 21! Its true, it's true, but so what they have adorable clothing. The best part about this store is they have the Love 21, Faith 21, Heritage 21 and Forever 21 clothing in the store. I got to get up close and personal with the clothes that I drool online about. That motivated me even more to drop this weight, stay on plan and workout. Trying to stay motivated, I want out of the 200's, ONEderland I'm coming, give me a few more weeks!

Blog Hop

30 Day Shred - Day 1

I ordered this DVD about a month ago. As I sat at my desk today thinking of my weight loss goals for November I thought...I need to step it up! I love reading other women's weight loss blogs, reading their stories and getting motivation. Today, while at home with my kids, I pulled this DVD out of my gym bag(I originally brought it for my co-worker workout group) but, I didn't get a workout in with them today and decided that it's time for me to try it out, and believe it or not, this DVD is a 20 minute workout but, baby, GET READY! It is a true WORKOUT! Jillian kicks your butt for the full 20 minutes non-stop. The DVD has 3 levels and you will do each level for 10 days. My body aches but you know what? I feel good about taking my weight loss to another level! I'll let you know what's up on Day 5! I believe in order to reach my end of the month goal of dropped lbs. I have to step it up....we shall see what happens!

Official

Ok, so today was my official weigh in. I am down 1 lb. That's fine, because I lost. It's not how much you lose as long as you lose. My goal for next week is to be 209. My goal for the end of the month is 200lbs. I am busy planning Thanksgiving. Our family has 2 stops to make inlaws and my family and that will, indeed, be a busy day. From Thanksgiving past, my family doesn't do the whole veggie thing or salads, aside from collard greens. I have to come up with a plan, the dinner is mostly carbs. We have mashed potatoes, yams, mac and cheese, greens, cornbread dressing, dinner rolls, ham, turkey and dessert. I'm in the process to make this Thanksgiving a successful day. My co-worker used to weigh 240lbs., she has lost 87lbs in a year on Weight Watchers. She rocks! I'm excited about the possibilities. I was told by my Weight Watchers instructor that the program will be changing the week after Thanksgiving. But, my class will run until December 21st, and she won't introduce it until the new year....it should be interesting.

Unofficial

So, today I'm back in the office after being in my home office for about three and a half weeks. Listen, it was very nice to be cozy in jammies all day, washing clothes, cleaning house. The bad part about it was....my routine. I worked out maybe twice. I didn't get much weight off, in fact, I gained 2 lbs. I was bummed because I was working and staying around the house and forgot my plan. And then I would weigh in and have the nerve to get mad. Listen, if you don't move, you don't lose! Get up and do something! So, today I worked out with my work crew and it was a good one, they killed me! My legs feel like jelly, my butt hurts and so does my abs but I feel good! I'm also going to a hip hop cardio class tonight at the gym. I think it's time to do something fun while working out, that way I will have something to look forward to.

Tomorrow is my weigh in. But, today, I unofficially weighed in and I'm not up from last week, but I'm only down a .5 lb. My goal is to be in the low 200's by the end of this month. I have decided to set small goals for my self each week, and I think that will hold me accountable to lose weight.

I meet up with my college girlfriends every blue moon. The 5 of us got together for dinner and a movie Saturday. I was so pleased that everyone was on some sort of weight loss plan!! We all ate good food, but healthy, and had good conversation. I'm happy to see that my girlfriends are changing their lifestyle as well.

My goal for tomorrow's weigh in is to be at last week weight or a pound loss. I'll keep you posted.

Week 7

So, I had a gain again this week of 0.8. Bummed out, because I was not even on plan like I needed to. I'm mad at myself because I was eating that candy from Halloween like a lunatic. I'm mad at myself because I had the nerve to buy my kid some chips and I ate them. Anyway, I fell off the boat and I am presently trying to get back on board. I worked out at the gym today and my husband asked me to do the Shred DVD with him this evening. I have to reach this goal of being under 200 by the end of the year, I was on track to getting it done before then. I'm going to continue this journey, I think I got a little ahead of myself, but I'm back I have a problem and I have to take it day by day.

Week 6

I had a gain of 0.6lbs this week. I'm on my cycle and I was thinking of how I had a pretty good weight loss last week. I'm not at all bummed, I would have loved to have a loss this week, but I would like to stay focused, pay attention, plan ahead to stay on track. I am very focused and this is truly the first time that I have stayed on plan to lose weight. This is a lifestyle change for me and I have to lose this weight. So, here goes, Halloween is right around the corner and all of the holidays, parties, dinners and get together's. I have to come up with a game plan to plan ahead and still enjoy the holidays. As I find some really good tips to make it through, I will post. You know, this time of the year, is when I usually make all of the comfort foods I love(all carb and sweets), I am looking for alternatives and I'm looking forward to continue to face this food issue head on.

Weigh In

I can truly say that my weight loss journey is different this time. I have temptation, who doesn't? But, one of the major changes I've made has been addressing what's going on with me instead of drowning my emotions in food. I have learned so much about myself in doing that. I used to be so outspoken. I think as I gained weight I began to hide behind it. I used to be so confident, outspoken and witty. I think I've lost me...but, in this process I have to address everything in my life full on. Listen, we live it everyday, life is no cake walk(although, somedays I wish it were). I didn't need a reason to eat happy, sad, angry, grieving, 8am, 10pm, it didn't matter. There's a power of writing things down and holding myself accountable for it and I am very pleased that I am starting to see a different woman rise to the surface after 10 years. I'm pleased to say that my weigh in results were -5.2! This was a heck of a week. I am so excited! I have to stay focused, continue to journal and PLAN PLAN PLAN. I will be a healthier me for me, but most importantly, my babies.

Is she your daughter...

While going through my weight loss journey, instead of me drowning my sorrow in food I am addressing what's going on in my life. There are so many things going on in my life as many other people. I have been struggling with not eating to make it better, or so I think. While I was in church last night, one of the women who I sit near saw my 19 year old sister and asked if she was my daughter? I smiled and laughed it off, but it bothered me so much. I'm TWENTY NINE YEARS OLD. I was mortified! So, what was I 10?! Or do I look older? Another unfortunate issue of gaining all of this weight is...you look much older. I'm so bummed that someone would think that, but this is not the first time. Have you ever been in a store to shop and you hear the salesperson call you ma'am, but a younger looking woman(who is probably your age) miss? Come on. I'm so over this weight! Over it. The way I dealt with the situation food wise was. eat right. POW! I'm going to drop this weight! This winter will start my transformation, because this spring I'm coming out a new person! Please believe me.

I just wanna see my collarbone again!

This morning, I woke up and decided that its time to set some weight loss goals. As I contemplated on what I wanted: wear a freakum dress to both weddings I'm going to next summer, look super hot while cruising next fall, buy a whole wardrobe this time next year or once I've reached goal or be the hottest thang at my surprise 30th birthday party next year! Yes, I said SURPRISE. I then came to the conclusion that I want the simple things. I want to see my curves again. I want to see my hips again. I want to see that hot booty again. I just wanna see my collarbone again. So, today, I have decided my ultimate goal is to wear a size 10 jean and have a million strapless tops and dresses in my wardrobe to show of my collarbone, great arms and nice shoulders. In the meanwhile, I am sitting mini goals:

Current weight: 215
Under 200, at 199: Buy charm necklace and bracelet I have been eyeing.
180: Mani Pedi twice a month
170: Take a trip to Chicago with the hubby
160: Get a massage
150: (Presently my ultimate goal!) Buy a wardrobe!

As this journey progress, my ultimate goal weight could possibly, be smaller But, I will worry about that when I get there.

Big Weight Loss!

Courtesy of Weightwatchers.com

1. Good things come in small packages.
Here's a trick for staying satisfied without consuming large portions: Chop high-calorie foods like cheese and chocolate into smaller pieces. It will seem like you're getting more than you actually are.



2. Get "water-wise."
Make a habit of reaching for a glass of water instead of a high-fat snack. It will help your overall health as well as your waistline. So drink up! Add some zest to your six to eight glasses a day with a twist of lemon or lime.



3. Herb it up.
Stock up your spice rack, and start growing a small herb garden in your kitchen window. Spices and herbs add fantastic flavor to foods without adding fat or calories.



4. Slim down your soup.
Make a big batch of soup and refrigerate it before you eat it. As it cools, the fat will rise to the top and can be skimmed off the surface.



5. Doggie-bag that dinner.
At restaurants that you know serve large portions, ask the waiter to put half of your main course in a take-home box before bringing it to your table. Putting the food away before you start your meal will help you practice portion control.



6. Listen to your cravings.
If you're craving something sweet, eat something sweet—just opt for a healthier nosh (like fruit) instead of a high-calorie one like ice cream. The same goes for crunchy cravings—for example, try air-popped popcorn instead of high-fat chips. It's just smart substitution!



7. Ease your way into produce.
If you're new to eating lots of fruits and vegetables, start slowly. Just add them to the foods you already enjoy. Pile salad veggies into your sandwiches, or add fruit to your cereal.



8. Look for high-fat hints.
Want an easy way to identify high-calorie meals? Keep an eye out for these words: au gratin, parmigiana, tempura, alfredo, creamy and carbonara, and enjoy them in moderation.



9. Don't multi-task while you eat.
If you're working, reading or watching TV while you eat, you won't be paying attention to what's going into your mouth—and you won't be enjoying every bite. Today, every time you have a meal, sit down. Chew slowly and pay attention to flavors and textures. You'll enjoy your food more and eat less.



10. Taste something new.
Broaden your food repertoire—you may find you like more healthy foods than you knew. Try a new fruit or vegetable (ever had plantain, pak choi, starfruit or papaya?).



11. Leave something on your plate at every meal.
One bite of bagel, half your sandwich, the bun from your burger. See if you still feel satisfied eating just a bit less.



12. Get to know your portion sizes.
It's easy to underestimate how much you're eating. Today, don't just estimate things—make sure. Ask how much is in a serving, read the fine print on labels, measure your food. And learn portion equivalents: One serving of pasta, for instance, should be around the size of a tennis ball.



13. Don't give up dips.
If you love creamy dips and sauces, don't cut them out of your food plan completely. Just use low-fat soft cheese and mayo instead of the full fat stuff.



14. Make a healthy substitution.
Learn to swap healthier foods for their less-healthy counterparts. Today, find a substitution that works for you: Use skim or low-fat milk instead of whole milk; try whole-wheat bread instead of white.



15. Bring lunch to work tomorrow.
Packing lunch will help you control your portion sizes. It also provides a good alternative to restaurants and takeaways, where making healthy choices every day can be challenging (not to mention expensive).



16. Have some dessert.
You don't have to deny yourself all the time. Have a treat that brings you pleasure, but this time enjoy it guilt-free be—sure you're practicing portion control, and compensate for your indulgence by exercising a little more or by skipping your afternoon snack.



17. Ask for what you need.
Tell your mother-in-law you don't want seconds. Ask your other half to stop bringing you chocolates. Speak up for the place with great salads when your co-workers are picking a restaurant for lunch. Whatever you need to do to succeed at weight loss, ask for it—make yourself a priority and assert yourself.

18. Improve your treadmill technique.
When walking on a treadmill, don't grip the rails. It's fine to touch them for balance, but you shouldn't have to hold on. If you do, that might be a signal you should lower the intensity level.



19. Simon says... get fit.
Here's an easy way to fit in exercise with your kids: Buy a set of 1 lb weights and play a round of Simon Says—you do it with the weights, they do it without. They'll love it!



20. Make the most of your walks.
If your walking routine has become too easy, increase your effort by finding hills. Just be sure to tackle them at the beginning of your walk, when you have energy to spare.



21. Shop 'til you drop...pounds!
Add a workout to your shopping sessions by walking around the mall before your start spending. And try walking up the escalator—getting to your destination faster will be an added bonus.



22. Walk an extra 100 steps at work.
Adding even a little extra exercise to your daily routine can boost your weight loss. Today, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or stroll down the hall to talk to a co-worker instead of sending an email or calling.

23. Brush your teeth after every meal and snack.
This will be a signal to your mouth—and your mind—that it's time to stop eating. Brushing will also give your mouth a nice fresh taste that you'll be disinclined to ruin with a random chip. At work, keep a toothbrush with a cover and toothpaste in your desk drawer.



24. Clean your closet.
First, it's great exercise. Second, it's an important step in changing your attitude. Get rid of all the clothes that make you look or feel bad. Throw out anything that's too big—don't give yourself the option of ever fitting into those clothes again. Move the smaller clothes up to the front to help motivate you. Soon, you'll be fitting into those too-tight jeans you couldn't bear to part with.



25. Take your measurements.
You might not like your stats now, but you'll be glad you wrote them down when you see how many inches you've lost. It's also another way to measure your success, instead of just looking at the scale. Sometimes even when the numbers on the scale aren't going down, the measurements on your body are.

Weigh In

Despite, my drama last week, I am so happy to report a loss of 2 lbs this week! I am very pleased with the plan.

Years ago, I joined Weight Watchers and I was really disappointed...because I wanted to continue eating my old way, but because I paid to be apart of the program I some how thought I was supposed to lose the weight. Silly me. I've learned that if you log what you are eating daily, you are holding yourself accountable to continue to stay on the right track.

I use myfitnesspal.com this website is fabulous! Many boards, success stories, recipe ideas and you get all of the calories for your foods. I have been logging now as long as I've been on WW. I have it downloaded on my phone and once I eat something it goes in my phone, it holds me accountable.

I will be out of my work office for for about 4 weeks, and I will be working in my home office which will be kind of tough because there is no workout equipment and I need to continue to get that activity time in. I will be sure to make it my priority to do so for the next 4 weeks...I have to stay focused.

Pumpkin Patch!

This weekend was great. I was still stewing Saturday, over this unfortunate set back, so I stayed in the house all day. Yesterday, was 10.10.10, I went to church had a blast! And decided I would not let my mood be filled with negativity any longer. My mom in law, sis in law and my kiddies decided to hit up a pumpkin patch, we had a hay ride, walked for about 45 minutes, and let the kids play and feed the lamb. Toward the end of the visit, we stopped for cider and the kids had cinnamon sugar donuts. I was sooo good, I didn't have one, because sugar and bread of any kind is definitely a trigger food for me. This was my kiddies first time at a Pumpkin Patch and they had a good time.

In other news, tomorrow is weigh in day and I have had some downs this week, and I am hoping that I will have a loss this week. It's very important for me to stay on this path to the new me. I will definitely post and update you as soon as I know.

BAD DAY!

Without getting into what's going on my personal life, I had a really bad day. I cried a few times and I was feeling really sorry for myself. I had 4 Oatmeal Creme Pies by Little Debbie. I was so upset and that was the only bad thing in the house. I drove around for about a half hour and kept talking myself out of McDonald's and every other freaking fast food place. But, yeah I had the little debbie's and I don't feel bad about it because hey, it was a tough day. I wish I could be one of those people who when they were stressed out can go to the gym and workout. Nonetheless, I will move forward today...God will work it out. Stay encouraged my friends

Weigh In

Before I talk about my weigh in today, let me tell you I was craving chips on Sunday, went out and picked up some Fritos, yes, Fritos. And as I sat in the bed watching all of the crime stories my heart could take...I had one, two, three, 30! WTH! I was so mad at myself that I decided not to have anything but 0 point soup for dinner. I wasted a good 'cheat' on FRITOS! Girl, bye! Anyway, so, I weighed in today and I am down 2lbs! I'm so excited! This is the first time that I've gone more than a week on a weight plan and stuck to it! Its sad but, true. I learned today that you have to have commitment, and I am committed to losing this weight for my babies, I want them to know that their mom will be there to run with them and go to the park and play and be at basketball games and soccer games(my little girl wants to play soccer and she wants to a gymnast), but this is my goal. I'm doing this for the loves of my life. Anyway, happy eating! Watch what you are eating, be conscious of what you put in your mouth and get up and walk, you will thank yourself later! and so will your family!

My MOJO

So....I had an epiphany. Last night while winding down watching my homegirl Oprah, I had an epiphany. She was interviewing Jenny McCarthy and she was discussing her breakup with Jim Carey. She said 'you lose who you are when you are in a relationship'.

*Light Bulb came on*

I thought to myself ever since my daughter(she's 3), I've lost my mojo! No will to learn, no drive to succeed and that led to me eating more, being lazy, just blah at work and not willing to push past it...I was always building someone else up, yet remaining stagnant. When I turned off my television, I thought: my husband is in school working on another degree(full on support on my part). I'm teaching my daughter how to recognize letters of the alphabet, numbers, matching, memory games, how to write and my son is 1 and he's all over the place, so we are not sitting down learning much, so when is there time for me?

Stuck in the routine of life, up, kids, work, kids, cook, baths, bed. My daily routine...I'm still alive right! No, date night with the hubby...no hanging out with girlfriends...just routine and a boring one at that.

So, as I previously stated I am in Graduate School working on my Master Degree(1st week). This was my first step to get me to understand...I matter. I joined Weight Watchers and made an effort to change my life. I used to make excuses about not wanting to be apart of it, but I am learning so much about myself in the 2nd week o__O and I have been working out while at work, and walking in the afternoon after dinner. Ladies, don't get lost in your relationship(being a mom, wife and daughter)as women we lose who we are to give to the ones we love...there's nothing wrong with that but, if there is no you, how can you love on your family.

Slowly getting re-acquainted with my mojo.

Workout Day 1

It's official, I have started to work out and let me tell you this was the toughest workout ever. Lunges, curls, planks and sit ups and all of it was timed circuit training. There are a group of people who workout during their lunch at my work and one of the girls(whose lost about 70lbs or so) invited me to work out with them last week. Well, I finally got up the nerve to put myself out there and I feel so good that I did it. But, honey, I was in so much pain, out of breath, out of shape, so fat...but, I will keep doing this. Its really no excuse. I'm so freaking excited about it. I don't know what to do! I hope I can keep this excitement up...you know how that goes.

Anyway, my Weight Watchers at work person is on vacation this week and I found a meeting in my area and went last night and let me just tell you I will not continue to go to this meeting spot(lots of old people) and I couldn't like get with them cause they were kind of clickish too. Oh well, I was -1 and I had to recalculate my points. I'm happy to be down 1, but I have a goal to meet and I will make that goal by December 14th! 198, here I come.

PLAN AHEAD!

I had to stop in and vent. I will not beat myself up, but in order to be successful in losing this weight you have to PLAN AHEAD. Now, I have been doing well and I have been trying to stay on track, but why the hell did I not bring my lunch today. Thank God for rain! As I left work today(to go and pick up something for lunch, because I was tired of eating salad and did not make a lunch)I was driving around in the rain and pulled into a Thai restaurant, my fave Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup and a chinese food place, it was WAAAY TO FAR OF A PARKING SPOT, seeing that is was rainy and I found myself falling into my old habits. I wanted to just go on impulse and have the foods that I wanted, but THANK GOD for the rain! I politely kept driving until I got back to work and had a cup of split pea soup and a sugar free vanilla chai latte...lunch only cost me 6 points. Getting ready to plan my lunch and dinner for tomorrow. I have to lose this weight and I have to weigh in tonight.


In what area of your life, do you feel like you need to plan ahead!?

Weekend Upsets and Wins

This was my first weekend on Weight Watchers and let me tell you:

I went to visit my god-sister(BFF) and her little kiddies we had a blast, did a little shopping and I had no problem staying on plan, getting a little exercise in all of the walking at the outlet malls felt good.
Yesterday, I had a baby shower and my aunts cooked and do you know there was not but, 1 vegetable there! green beans, ummmm, somebody help! I had the green beans, but everyone was razzing me because of it. With the holidays coming up and the changes that I think we need to make and when I say we, My hubby decided to follow WW's plan as well, that will be a very good thing for us, as we will both have the same plan to get in gear and lose the weight togehter. My hubby weighs 344lbs. He wants to lose and look good in his clothes, he's well proportioned, but losing this weight will be great in getting him to be healthy and more active. My upset(prior to him telling me that he will participate in WW) he had Popeye's chicken, I had the red beans and rice and that was not apart of plan. I was bummed at first, but I have to realize that there will be temptation and if I give in, I have to move along and not beat myself up for it. So, today, I am fully on plan, keeping track of my points drinking my water and staying focused.

It's Official!!!

Today, began my first day on Weight Watchers. There are a total of 15 people in the class and some of these people are Lifetime folks and others have been doing this for a little under a year with great results. Our class touched on some pretty good subjects and I was weighed in today and I am down 1.8lbs from last week! I measured by waist and bust last week and I was pretty upset with myself. Bust is 42 inches and my waist is 46 inches...come on. I'm looking forward to this journey, I CANNOT wait to take it all in. I know there will be ups and downs and I will have some issues throughout but, I am looking forward to changing my lifestyle and in turn helping my family as well.

Weight Watchers

So, I spoke to my co-workers...you know the hot ones I was telling you about and they did it on Weight Watchers. My company has Weight Watchers come in 3 months and we only pay 50% of the price, and get this they work out for an hour before lunch and have lunch at their desk while working! Can you believe that? All I had to do was open my mouth and ask...smh at myself. It's ok, I'm feeling really good this week, I have been eating better and being active and just feel all around good. Weight Watchers will begin this Tuesday and I am so excited! We have a lot of supportive people and this is for sure a lifestyle change and I can't wait to be the new me, mentally and physically!

SN: I had to post this picture of JHud. I adore her!

OH GOD...

This is my moment of truth. It took me a while to finally make a decision on this and today I am down right upset with myself and if I put this out here then I am held accountable and my goals have to be met. I'm so upset with myself I have been telling myself that I am going to do this and that and blah and blah, but today, I decided to use the digital scale in my gym at work(YES, I have a freaking gym, fully equipped with treadmills, eliptical, step machines, weight training, resistance balls and free weights). My husband got me a Bally's membership at the beginning of the year and I can't believe that I am not taking advantage of this stuff. It's like while I was eating everyone around me was losing weight! I was the smallest fat girl in the company...now everyone and I mean EVERYONE who was bigger than me, looks freaking HOT! They are on a journey of a healthier lifestyle and I'm on the couch eating carbs! Listen here, I am stuck in a rut. I get up, shower, get kids dressed, off to work, work for 8 hours, go get kids, (grocery store or run errands some time), back home, cook dinner, give baths and watch tv. It's bad. My classes for the fall will begin on the 22nd of this month and my day to day will change, but I need to add workouts and eating right into this equation. I have decided to take this one step further. I am disgusted with what I have done to myself, but now I have to be honest with myself. I am morbidly obese. I went to the Toledo Zoo with my kids over the past weekend and my feet and back ached afterwards(I'm 29), my kids are 1 and 3 I need to be here for them. I haven't had any medical issues per my doctor...I'm healthy(but I'm morbidly obese). I know that I need to change my life and so, I have decided to log my journey, and all honesty I'm very uncomfortable with posting these pictures, but I have to...so here starts the journey. Pray for me. I have to be around for the LOVES OF MY LIFE.
I weighed myself today...
Starting weight: 221.8
Pants size:14/16
Height: 5'2
Shirt Size: XL, 1x
BMI: 40.6

Blog Identity

When I first decided to blog, I wanted to talk about the people I adored the most...my family! But, as time has progressed I have decided that I want my blog to be about all things me! Family, love, weight loss, new journey's and I have decided to take you all along on the paths with me.

Emotional Eating

Its so funny how you can ask God for things and he just gives it to you. I have been struggling with my weight since late 2010. My grandmother passed away that year and it was really hard on me, she had a bout with cancer and she got really sick. I ate to cope with her sickness. My grandmother helped my mom raise me, she put me in private schools and took care of me while my mom worked. She was always there to guide me, give me advice or just cook me some of my favorite meals. When she fell ill I was living in GA doing an internship that summer and when I found out I was devastated, welp I ate myself better and 20lbs later, I was sad at the way I looked, but then life continued to happen and I gained more and more weight. I thought while in high school I was not a big eater, I worked 2 jobs and wore a size 5/6 at my smallest. I know that's a different time, however, my goal is to lose this weight. I said all that to say, I have been struggling this past week with getting into the eating right habits and having my water and getting in activity time and while sitting in church yesterday listening to the announcements, one of our members(whose a doctor), start discussing emotional eating, what causes it and how to cope with. Well, you know what causes it...how to cope with it is another issue. It's basically asking God what is His will for your life and start addressing it. You can also, put together a vision board and I thought that's a great idea, lets start addressing these issues. Pray for me.

Update

It feels like winter out! What the heck, it seems like yesterday it was 83...oh my bad, it was! What the heck!? Anyway, back on my grind with work and goals that I have set for myself. My first goal is to lose 15lbs by Halloween and it's totally doable. I just need to stay focused and work on knocking it out the park. In order to reach this goal, I will:

Follow Weight Watchers Core Plan
Workout while at Work 4 days a week
Drink Lots of water

If I follow that plan, I believe I can reach my goal. And for reaching that goal I will get myself a really cute top from Faith21. I won't weigh myself until Monday, this week started today for me, back at work since Thursday last week.

Once I've reached this goal and I will reach it. I will post before and after pictures and set my second goal. My goal is to lose 50+ lbs. I will keep you posted! Keep me in your prayers and I will do the same for you.

Good One!

I stumbled upon this letter online and decided to share:
Dear Fat,
This is to inform you that your lease is coming to an end and that it is time for you to vacate the premises. We’ve had a long-term arrangement, you and I, even friendly at times, but all good things must come to an end, and it is now time for this working relationship to end.

You have brought neighborhood property values down, and have polluted the neighborhood for the last time! You are no longer wanted here and must leave.

Please pack up your bags and prepare to be evicted.
Sincerely Yours,
Management

I LOVE IT!

Summer's Gone!

I haven't been posting in a while because I was in a rut, with weight loss, progress and death, its been a tough couple weeks. Anywho, I'm back and I am so happy to say that Weight Watchers Core is working for me! I have lost 5 lbs. my first week! Yay Me! I'm so excited and I have little mini goals and keeping a food journal and I'm actually not hungry at all. This is working out well for me and I couldn't be happier. I am adding cardio to my new lifestyle this week. I will be sure to post on that and let you know how I'm doing. I can't believe the summer's almost gone. I have a few fun things lined up for me and the kiddies over the next few weeks, but then we have to get ready for Halloween and then the holidays. It's crazy, can't believe it.

Sister Friends

God gave me some really good girlfriends in my life. 2 of which have had tragedy it has not been a week and these women have both lost their mothers. I love these girls and I wish I could take the pain away. I just pray that God can help me to be the best comfort that I can in the trying time for my girls.

TRUE BLOOD:)

Meanwhile, back at the ranch this is my favorite show! I love True Blood! If you are not a fan, you should totally check it out. Its sexy, funny, entertaining, suspenseful and will keep you on the edge of your seat. The writing on this show is awesome! Team Eric all the way!

:(

EPIC DISAPPOINTMENT!
I hyped myself up for this change in my life and now I'm beating myself up. My 29th bday was the 6th of this month and instead of me being smart about my decision making, I was wrong for the past 2 weeks. I'm back on track now(day 2), but I fell off, cake, treats, pasta. Here I am telling myself that I am need of a new and there is no way I can meet my goals that I have set for myself if I don't follow what's needed to. Presently, I'm thinking of doing Weight Watchers. I think this will be the best for me, the last time I did it...it was all about the point system. There are different alternatives now and I am intrigued, I have a few buddies who have done it and look smoking now! I will let you know. My work, has the meetings for its employees or I will go on Ebay and order a packet to get started.

My first LOVE!

Welp, she's 3! Wonderful little lady! She has a big personality. She likes to read, dance and sing. She's very outspoken, she gives the biggest hugs and kisses, she's nurtuting and she's a daddy's girl! She loves her little brother, he's her best bud and she protects him with all she has! I love my girl and couldn't have asked God for a better little girl! I love you P, you are, indeed, Perfect:)

The Color Purple

So, I took my hand at cornrows for P's hair again this weekend and I did a pretty good job, but my husband was soooo upset with her hair. He hated it! So, as I was taking her braids out, I thought her hair looked like Celie from the Color Purple. Anyway, here are pictures, practice makes better....

Weigh-In

Mondays are my weigh in days, today I am pleased to say I am down 2.4lbs! I'm very excited as this is a big deal for me, this is the first time I have been absolutely dedicated to my weight loss. Before, I didn't take it seriously, off one day on 2 days...this time I have not swayed. I have been journaling my food and my feelings to address issues instead of drowning them in food. There are so many things that came with this weight gain. I have had so many self esteem issues and body issues and I want to have this under control before my daughter understands. I want her to be proud of who she is and how she looks. I don't want her to go through the constant teasing and embarassment as I did as a child and I definitely don't want her to go through her entire 20's overweight. There are so many things I want for my babies, but P as a woman will have to deal with so much more when it comes to being body conscious. I realized I'm not only losing this weight for me, but for her as well. Stay tuned...

Wedding/Museum

What a weekend?! I can't say it was good, bad or indifferent! I will say, however, I had a great time at my cousin's wedding this weekend, she was absolutely beautiful and the family did a great job by having the wedding in such a historic place here in Detroit. Charles H. Wright Museum and although the bride and groom took forever to make it to the reception(I did the same thing, now I know how it felt) at least there was something for us to do. My mom, sisters, an aunt and cousin took a tour of 3 exhibits! We toured the Slave exhibits and it was so emotional, we laughed in some respects and cried in others. We had a great time. I've been wanting to tour this facility for quite some time and I am so glad I had the opportunity to do so.

AWARE, ALERT, AWAKE

I'm so mad at myself. I have been keeping this food journal and watching what I eat, but why is this so hard?! It feels like this weight just crept up on me(10 years). I never ate as a teen to feel good about myself or when I was stressed. I got older and that's what I started to do. Here I am 28 years old(29 in August). I am determined to lose this weight and be healthy by my 30th bday. I have been overweight all of my 20's and I be damned if I am this way for the rest of my life. I am just so mad that when I get in a crunch, I revert to these bad decisions. I won't beat myself up, but this has to stop. As I am learning, this is what I've found:

1.) Plan the night before
2.) Plan the night before
3.) Plan the night before

It's not good to procrastinate, I'm still learning, its hasn't been that long. The pictures in the food diary is a good idea, that's been working and I have also added, some of my favorite people, Beyonce, Ciara, J. LO, in really cute, everyday outfits...that keeps me motivated as well. I will update weekly, this has become a true task for me.

Rainforest Cafe

I have tried to get to this restaurant for years now, but our little cousin was having a bday party and invited us. The kids had a blast. There is a thunderstorm every half hour and the animals make noises and move every 10 minutes! I thought the kids were going to spazz out, after the first time, they were good to go! We had a great time! Can't wait to do NEW things with my kiddies:)

HOT SUMMER DAYS

We have been posted up in the house for the past 4 days or so, the hubby and I decided to take the kids downtown for a walk and a carousel ride, welp, we forgot their was a waterfall for them to play in and let me tell you, my daughter was the happiest child! She enjoyed herself, so much so that when the water was turned off, she had a fit. M, had a great time as well, he was so fascinated with the water!

Asthma, go AWAY!

My 1 year old has asthma, its a bummer, because when he gets sick, he GETS SICK! We went to Urgent Care last Tuesday afternoon(13th), that visit turned into an overnight hospital stay. He's doing well and had a blast flirting with each nurse who came to visit him. I took 3 days off of work to stay with my sick baby. Alot of his time was spent sleeping, breathing treatments, flirting and taking meds, believe it or not he had a great appetite as well. I couldn't wait to get out of the hospital. His breathing is back to normal now, THANK GOD!

Weight Loss Motivation

So, while purusing through Youtube this past weekend, I realized I need motivation something that will keep me on track while on this journey to lose 50+lbs. I stumbled upon a weight loss journey, this young girl who talked a little too much, but she had a good idea. She took pictures of herself at her starting weight in her panties and bra and every 30 days she took another picture. She taped those pictures in her food diary and it helped her. So, guess what your girl did....YES, I took pictures of myself and the thought of printing them alone made me want to stop eating, however, I picked up a notebook today and I took my pictures, posted them in my notebook, along with my starting weight, BMI, and measurements as well as pants and shirt sizes. The mere thought of those pictures are enough for me to stop binge eating. Aunt Flo is getting ready to visit and I find myself wanting to have all of the bad things I would normally eat, so I needed to take drastic measures. I will keep you posted as to what happens with my notebook....will I keep it or burn it?Stay tuned.

Things kids say..

P has been calling me "Your Majesty" lately! She says it alot or she will call me "Queen" as well. Last night, we were having a conversation and she started it with "Your Majesty can I have a puppy"?" It caught me off guard, but I smiled big and said YES! She summed up our conversation with thank you Queen! I will see if I can get the hubby to follow her lead?!

Mom's One Line a Day Memory Book

My son had a playdate last night in the pool with little Kaleb across the street from my house. Perfect had to go because dad had to work late. Gab loved the pool, which makes me think I really need to invest in a swimming pool, my backyard is big enough for it. Anywho, there are so many cute, cool things my kids do that I enjoy and I get kicks out of and I've decided I need to journal some of those things, so when they get older they can read some of my thoughts. I stumbled upon this journal on Amazon. I'm going to the bookstore to get it today on my lunch. It's so cute! I will let you know how I like it.

Landscaping

We have been in our home now for about 2 years now and I wanted to get my landscaping done for a while. I went on craigslist because I wanted a retaining wall and have been looking for quite some time, I hit a lick! A woman was selling 74 blocks for $25!!!! Can you believe that!? It's unbelievable! Anywho, I picked those up and my uncle came over and put it up for me! I woke up on July 4th and guess who was out putting in all of my landscaping!!! I am so pleased at what he did, my house is starting to look like a home!!! My deck is a work in progress, it will be done before summer's end.

Holiday Weekend

We had a nice weekend! I relaxed, ate and enjoyed time with my family! It's always nice to have that time. It has been so flipping hot lately and my mom has no air at her house, the kids were so hot when I went to pick them up yesterday, that I had no choice but to pick up a swimming pool for the kids, its not much, but a few popsicles and some water, they were happy!

Weight Loss Journey

I swear, I start this journey and fall off so much. I have about 60 lbs to lose, more than that, but I will be happy with that. I decided, for the 1,234,567th time that I am going to focus on losing weight. I'm not joking this is so important. I used my webcam over the weekend(as if I didn't know how big I was) and I was disgusted with myself. I went to the grocer and I picked up fruits and vegetables, vowed that I would not have any fast food and drink more water. Its time to get active as well. If I can just stay on track, I will be very proud of myself. When I lose my first 20lbs I will let you know. I will also post when I am stressed and can't take it anymore!

Back to School

Today is my first day back to school! I have been giving all of me to my husband and kiddies and now I've decided to take the time to do something for myself. When I got prego with Money, I was going to school and I was so overwhelmed that I had to 'drop out', welp here we go! I'm working on my Masters of Management in Human Resources!

Summer Fun!

We decided to pick up and go on Father's Day to Michigan Adventure! The kiddies loved it...my son, didn't care for the water. My daugher on the other hand LOVED it! She loved it so much that on a daily basis, maybe 15 times a day she asks if she can go to the waterpark!!! We have another trip coming up, so I will be able to give her what she's asking for!

Family!

It's what life is made of!
The family and I went out to do a few interactive things over the weekend, we really enjoyed ourselves. We also met up with M & M! They came down to visit, they live about 3 hours away from us in MI. We see each other from time to time and the kiddies really enjoy the visits.

Protective Styling

Currently, I'm trying to learn how to cornrow...let's just say Practice Makes Better!I'm a pretty busy mom and I want my child's hair to be protected as well as properly maintained. I called my sis in law over to take care of her hair as well as teach me to braid(this is best), I'm currently trying to learn as much as I can, here are a few pictures of what I've done thus far and how my sis took care of my babies hair!