A Fresh Start

Happy Halloween!!

I have decided to try to refocus on my WW program. I've been having trouble for about a month now, and soI am recommitting myself. I opted to not weigh in this week to give myself a fresh start. So I am probably going to need some encouragement from you, my friends. I've lost 77.5 pounds and I refuse to quit now. So I am absolutely going to do it right this week! :)

I had a pretty good weekend. Went out with Joseph and Dima Saturday night. I enjoy their company so much! :) I got to have dinner and catch up with Angela and Tom last night. It's always such a treat to spend time with them! I've felt a little worn out with stress, but I got a good night's sleep last night and feel much better today.

Tomorrow night is an All Saints service at church, where everyone in the congregation who passed away over the last year is remembered by name, so my Gran will be remembered. I'm going to that tomorrow night. The choir is singing Faure's Requiem which is a beautiful piece of music and I cannot wait to get lost in the sounds of the choir. It will be a wonderful evening.

Also, a big shout out to my cousin Jen. I'm thinking of you, girl!

For all my other friends who stop in to read my daily ramblings, have a good Monday!! I'm glad you dropped by! :)

It Has Arrived!

Friday!! It's been a long time coming!! This week has been so challenging for me...I am looking forward to running with Jacqueline tonight to get rid of some of this stress!

I want to just relax and enjoy myself this weekend. Saturday night I am going to Joseph's to hang out and watch movies and relax. That's just what I need! :) His friend who works at a french bistro is going to bring a fabulous dessert for us to share, so movies, good company, and creme brulee...is there anything more wonderful than that? :)

So I am going to relax and have fun this weekend and try to imrpove my attitude. It's going to be a good day! :)

Darn Allergies!

So today I am stuffy and my eyes are watery (don't worry...not another breakdown, just allergies!). I want to stay home and sleep so badly, but there is just too much to do right now at work. Ugh!

I had dinner with Grampa and Mom last night. After the day I had, Grampa made me a martini when I got to his house and that was a big help! :) We went to Mimi's Cafe for dinner and then went back to the house to visit. It just feels so good to spend time with him, and especially yesterday.

When I got home, I took a hot bubble bath to help me relax, and then I went to bed around 9pm. I needed the sleep desperately. I was just so worn out. I have decided that today will be a much better day. No crying episodes at work.

So that's it for now. I'm still not very awake, so I am going to get some coffee. Have a great day everyone! :)

It Finally Happened.

As many of you well know, I've been going around for the last month talking about how I kept waiting for the big sobbing breakdown over losing my Gran. I don't have to wait anymore. It happened today. Here. At work. I hate that. I don't cry at work.

Except today I did. And it sucks.

I wasn't having a stellar morning to start with, but then around 9am, I just lost it. And wouldn't you know it would happen with a bunch of people in my cube. And they're all wonderful people who wanted to hug me and comfort me, but all I could think about was running out of my office and out the door and never looking back. One woman even kissed my head. Yeah, I don't want some crazy woman with red lipstick kissing my forehead. That didn't help anything. But I thanked them anyhow. They all understood why I was so broken right then, and after a few minutes they finally left me alone to sob. I couldn't go to the ladies' room because I wasn't about to let anyone see me like that. So I sat and cried off my mascara. By the way, I look like shit now. Even 4 hours later, I still look like I cried recently. Mostly because of my makeup. I will not be leaving the house again without my makeup bag. I just had powder and gloss with me. Doesn't really help right now, huh?

So anyhow, that explains my morning mood in my earlier post. I'm better now, but still feeling quiet and a little sad. I guess this is just part of the process. I miss Gran.

Blah.

That pretty much sums it up. Blah. I am having allergy trouble this morning, so I feel stuffy and sleepy. I didn't sleep very well last night, which always surprises me after a leg workout. After the workout I ran out to Kev's to pick up my laptop. We grabbed some dinner and I hung out for a bit but I kept falling asleep on the couch so I came home. I figured I would go right to sleep when I got in bed, but no. And when I did finally fall asleep, I feel like I kept waking up throughout the night. This is driving me nuts. So today I am a little grumpy and pretty much would love to have just stayed home by myself. I promise to try and get over myself.

I don't have any real news, just the usual stuff. I am going to perk myself up and have dinner with Grampa tonight. That's always a good thing. :) I know that if nothing else, that will make my day!

I hope everyone is starting their day out better than me! Have a good one!

Late Night Coffee Run

So around 8:30 last night Joseph called and we chatted for a bit and then decided to meet for coffee. I love spontaneous plans! I threw on my jeans and headed out. We hung out at Starbucks for a while until a friend of his met us out there, and then we went to a place called Jasmine's for tea. We spent some time just being silly and laughing and it was a great time.

I am a little tired today, but I don't mind. I will eat a good lunch and then be ready to run this afternoon with Jacqueline. She's doing so well after her breakup! Her ex is still acting rather childishly, but it's all proving to her that calling off the wedding was the right thing to do.

I am determined to stay on track with WW this week. I am working really hard to stay focused and get back on my losing streak. I absolutely will have 85 pounds off by Thanksgiving!

Tomorrow night I am having dinner with Grampa. I missed last week because I wasn't feeling good. I come from a family of germophobes, and whenever you're sick, you don't bring the germs around. You stay home!! (Which is fine, because who wants to spread germs and either get sick or make someone else sick?)

So other than that, I have zero news. Nothing big going on, just the usual stuff. I am loving the cooler weather! I am finally getting to wear some of the scarves I bought in Paris last June, and I have gotten more compliments on my scarves! I love it when people say "where did you get that?" Then I get to reply, "I got it in Paris!" I love saying that!!

Have a wonderful day everyone!

Castles ARE Allowed!!

So while I was out hiking at the lake this weekend, I saw a very odd sign. Well, the sign itself might not have been so odd, but a part of it struck me as very strange. Here's the sign...

The sign itself is just a sign with the name of the hiking trail on it. Here's the odd part...

It appears that hiking is ok, horses are not ok, but castles are permitted? What does this mean? I never once saw a castle while hiking. I was slightly disappointed about that. But perhaps next time I go hiking I will bring my own. Very strange!

So my WW was definitely NOT a success. I had a very small gain. I'm just having a hard time right now. One of the big keys to WW success is writing everything you eat in a "journal". I haven't been very good about that for the last month, and I think that is part of my problem. I don't know why I've been so resistant about doing it. It's not a pain, it's not hard or time consuming. So in an effort to really get myself back on track, my mother and I are going to fax each other copies of our journals every afternoon. This makes me accountable and will hopefully really keep me in line with that. I'll let you know how it's going. I'm going to have 85 pounds off my Thanksgiving no matter what! (Because I want 100 pounds off by January 1st!)

Jaqueline and I worked out at my complex Friday night. We went running, did lunges, and step-ups and I was worn out afterwards! I like having my sessions outside when the weather is that lovely! I am wondering about this week...I sure would love to run outside again!

So really other than that, there's not any big news. I did see Elizabethtown Friday night. It was good, but a couple of places were hard for me because of recent family events. But it was a good movie...even Kevin liked it. :)

So that's about it. Hope you all have a great Monday!!

A Very Long Week

Finally it's Friday! I shouldn't complain since I was off Wednesday, but I wasn't feeling good. But I am loving the weather today and wish I didn't have to come back from lunch! It would be nice to have a fireplace on nights like tonight, but I don't have one. :( I'll just snuggle with my kitty and bask in the warm glow of the TV.

I got invited to a Halloween party for tomorrow night, but I am going to pass. Not feeling the Halloween vibe...and I don't have a costume, so no biggie for me. Halloween hasn't ever been a big deal to me. I used to participate in a haunted house that my friend Kevin always took great pride in, and that was ALWAYS fun! We don't really do that anymore, and since then Halloween just seems like another day. I even bought candy for trick-or-treaters last year and didn't get a single knock on my door. Bummer! I'll probably go to my parent's house for dinner this year. Which is a happy alterntive to sitting home waiting for nothing! :)

It's a slow and quiet day here at work. I am going to see a movie with Kevin tonight and I don't know what we're going to see. There are a few things out that interest me, but I think they're mostly chick-flicks. Although I do want to see Flightplan (Jodi Foster). We'll see what else is showing, though.

I hope all of you have a great weekend! Too everyone in Hurricane Wilma's path, please be careful and go somewhere safe! (Thanks for reminding me of the correct name, Dad!)

One more quick prayer...I got news from my mom that my cousin Jen's mom has cancer and has been given a negative prognosis. Please keep her in your prayers/good thoughts!

Hugs to all of you and have a wonderful weekend!

A Day of Rest

I was in the office for about an hour yesterday and then decided I felt crummy so I headed home. I slept for most of the day and was glad I was feeling better, but I make a lousy patient and felt very cooped up so I took myself to a movie last night. I saw In Her Shoes. I love this movie. It moved me in a lot of ways and there was a lot I found that I could identify with. Some of it was hard because parts of it take place in a nursing/assisted living home and I found myself tearful and missing my Gran, but I thought it was a very good movie. It may be a little "chick-flicky" for you guys, so I would recommend it for the ladies. Just go alone and experience the movie.

So after the movie I stopped by Mom and Dad's for a bit. I am finding that I am really missing my Gran right now and was getting a little bit teary, but I'm ok. I just miss her. I think Mom does, too.

Tonight I am going to my friend Michelle's for dinner. Michelle and I go way back to elementary school! She's married with two kiddos now and it's always a treat to catch up with her. We laugh and have such a great time!

So that's about it for me today. I still feel kind of blah, but better than yesterday. I hope it's not a reaction to my stupid old flu shot!

Everyone have a great day! :)

I Don't Enjoy Getting Shots

So I got my flu shot yesterday...OW! The shot itself wasn't so bad, but my arm hurt a bit for the rest of the evening. I hate shots more than I can say. I know it's a small needle, etc, but I just really despise getting them. (My parents can certainly attest to that!)

Tonight it leg night with Jacqueline. I am really looking forward to burning some calories! I'm going to get there about 30 minutes early to spend time on the treadmill and try and burn off a few more. Then after I am done and showered, I am going to Joseph's for a bit. We're going to hang out and relax. I love going over there, but dang! Having to take the tollway eats up my change and I hate scrounging. I have resisted the temptation for years to purchase a TollTag, but I broke down yesterday and ordered one online. So in just a few days I won't have to worry about that any more. It will be nice to just zip through the tollgates and not have to stop and throw change in the basket-like thing. I was coming home on the tollway last night and felt like I had to stop way too often. Ugh! (Wow...I can complain about something for DAYS, can't I?)

Work is dragging today. I feel a little tired, but I shouldn't. I got a decent night's sleep last night, so I guess it must be the weather. It's supposed to get chilly again this weekend!! I love wearing jackets, and I bought a bunch of scarves in Paris back last June, so I can't wait to wear them! I also ordered a bunch of stuff from The Gap and Old Navy, so they should be in soon and maybe I can wear some of the new sweaters this weekend!

Obviously I have no real news to discuss today. I'm feeling rather cheerful and happy today...and very chatty, apparently. I'll put a stop to the nonsense now. I hope everyone has a great day!

Good News at WW

I had a good weigh in yesterday at WW! Now, last week I used my No Weigh In Pass, but I got on the scale anyhow and the news was not good at all...throughout everything that had happened over the two weeks prior to that, I had eaten a bunch of food at that was really bad for me, and it showed up on the scale. (to the tune of 7 pounds....I'm not proud of that at all.) HOWEVER...I got on the scale yesterday and lose 5 of that, so I was very pleased! (2 more to go and I'll have gotten all of that awfulness off of my body!) So I am feeling good about that.

It was a quiet day yesterday, but I needed that. I got to bed nice and early and slept well, but I am not feeling great today. Whatever it is I'm sure will pass quickly. I don't feel sick, just don't feel great.

I get my flu shot today and as much as I hate getting shots, I'll be glad to get it. I get one every year (except last year) and I generally don't have any problems with the flu.

Here's a great quote for the day...

In every soul there is locked away an adventure. It may be as small as a walk in the park or as grand as climbing a mountain. The key to happiness is unlocking that adventure and bringing it into the light. Go take that walk in the park or climb that Everest and see what joy and further adventures it brings. A life void of adventure is an empty existence and one full of regrets.

Have a good Monday!

It's Friday and I Couldn't Be Happier!

TGIF! Seriously!

First things first: It's Denim for Dollars day at my office. We're wearing jeans for a $5 contribution to fight breast cancer. Be sure to donate this month to help find the cure!

Last night I had dinner with Grampa (his night to buy!). We went to Applebee's and had cocktails and dinner. I love that he recognizes the importance of a good drink before dinner! He theorizes that after 15, 500 martinis you become immortal. I love this man! After dinner we went back to his house and watched some tv and visited. When I was leaving, he told me how much he enjoys our weekly night together. For my Grampa to say this, he must really mean it. He is very loving, but not a big "huggy kissy" kind of man, so this meant the world to me. I'll break my neck to get there and spend the evening with him for the rest of both of our lives!

On the way home I stopped at Target to get a few groceries and then came on home. I have been a tired girl, and I am still sore from my Wednesday workout. I am working out again tonight with Jacqueline and I just might die. Seriously, if she super-sets me and then we sprint in between, it might be the death of me. It's been a long week and I am worn out!

Tomorrow, Mom and I are planning to hit a couple of resale shops. I really need some fall clothes but don't really have the $$ to spend on a lot of new stuff, especially since I seem to change sizes (going in the smaller direction!!) with a good deal of regularity. This is exciting, and a pain in the pocketbook. What I really need to do is buy a belt!

Also, Mom told me that they got a shoe catalog from Nordstrom's for me at their house. She saw some shoes that would be perfect for my Salsa dancing, so I may need to take a look. Heck, it's a shoe catalog from Nordstrom's...of course I need to take a look! I actually need a couple of pairs of shoes for fall/winter, as I have been the queen of flip-flops this past summer. I need some really great fall shoes. I am really wanting to buy more feminine shoes (certainly my foot-loving friend will be happy to read that!)...I catch myself leaning towards Dr. Martens and some of the more chunky Mary-Jane styles, and I am ready for a change. I bought a great pair of Steve Madden Mary-Janes, but they're not the chunky ones...they're very feminine and sexy! :)

I did a little online shopping this morning and bought a few things from the Gap and Old Navy, so I am looking forward to some new fall things. I know I am needing to save money, but I had a $75 gift card to The Gap and Old Navy was having a sale. What can I say...I am a shopaholic! Now I need a littel bit of fall makeup and I'll be happy! (Hey, I haven't bought any MAC recently, so I am long overdue!)

I think that's it for now. Have a fabulous Friday!

It's All Greek To Me!

I had dinner with Christy last night and we met at a little Mediterranean cafe on highway 26 in Hurst. I had never eaten that kind of food before, but I have to tell you that is some GOOD STUFF! We got a few appetizers and shared and she brought a bottle of wine (it's BYOB) and it was fantastick! Dolmas, hummus, calamari, falafel...everything good all on one table! And then we had what was essentially baklava with cashews for dessert. We've decided that we may have to make that our every other week treat! It was so much fun catching up with her and laughing and just having a great time.

Before dinner, though, I worked with Jacqueline. My legs are sore today, let me tell you! I was a bit fatigued from all the outside work I had done the day before, so I wasn't up to par yesterday but I still got one heck of a workout in! We lunged outside and I did probably about 65 lunges. That in addition on all the squats and leg presses...man, I am tired today! But I have a very special dinner date tonight. I am going to have dinner with Grampa, and he insists it's his turn to buy. Who am I to argue, right?

So that's the news for today. Have a good Thursday!!

Community Day in Review

So yesterday was our Community Day. I spent my time sanding, painting, and hauling branches to a dumpster and let me tell you, it was hard work! The rain helpd off until the end of the day, so we managed to get most everything finished. We were a very tired and sweaty bunch when it was finished! I wish they would have our appreciation dinner the next day so we could all look nice, but no...we have to go to the Omni looking like the last rose of summer! And Holly really is right...it would be nice if they could do a little better than hamburgers or grilled chicken for us!

When I got home I was happy to get out of my sweaty clothes and clean up! I went over to Mom and Dads for a bit, and then Mom and I ran a bunch of stuff up to Goodwill. Then on to Walgreens and then home. I got back in time to watch my favorite show...Law&Order: SVU. I love that show!

Tonight is leg night, so I am preparing for a beating! After my workout I am having dinner with Christy, whom I have not seen in forever it feels like, so I am excited about seeing her. :)

So that's about it for now. Have a good Wednesday!

Seriously, No News!

I got home from work yesterday, chatted on the phone for a bit, sat down to decide on dinner, and woke up in my chair at 9pm. So yeah, I didn't get anything done last night! Shame on me! I had planned to make dinner and go work out, but didn't do either.

Today is Community Service Day at work. I'll be out of the office for the day working at the Salvation Army doing all kinds of stuff, but mostly sanding so that another team can follow behind and paint. (We're refurbishing the outside of the building) And then when all is said and done, we're having a company wide dinner at the Omni Mandalay Hotel close to the office. I don't mind...it's nice to get away from the office for the day!

So that's it for now. Have a good day everyone!

Back on Track

So I made it to my WW yesterday. I used my "No Weigh In Pass" which means I went to the meeting but chose not to step on the scale. I do know for a fact I have gained a couple pounds, but I know why and I am getting myself back on track now. I am absolutely going to have a good week and get those pounds off of me. My short-term goal is to have a total of 85 pounds off by Thanksgiving, and I think I can do that. That's only about 7.5 pounds in 6 weeks, so this is totally do-able. My biggest problem has been that I haven't written everything down that I've eaten, which makes me lose track and then it all goes downhill from there. In my meeting yesterday we talked about the things that keep us anchored and focused, and a handful of women in my group said that I was their anchor/inspiration. I swear I thought I would cry! I don't think I've ever felt like an inspiration, but I guess we never know how our actions influence other people, do we?

In other news, I got to see Andy and Melissa's new baby yesterday. She is so tiny and precious! Her name is Kaylee Jane and she is so quiet and sweet! However, Andy has some serious bags under his eyes! Melissa should be in the hospital for another day or two, and then it's home they go. Very exciting for them!

That's about it for my news. Everyone have a good Monday...hugs to you all!

The Beauty of a Lazy Day

It's been so nice today...just being lazy and doing the things I want to do. I had brunch with Grampa and had a lovely morning. Mia and I were going to go see Joseph play rugby today, but it turned out he wasn't going to be playing so she and I opted to hang out and wander around Target and marvel at the fun fall clothes. Both of us had plans that fell through at the last minute, so we're going to go out to dinner and hang out for a bit. (I'm waiting for her to get ready as I write this)

Tomorrow I am having brunch with Joseph and Eric and then off to WW. I know, I haven't gone to a meeting in two weeks, but I am for sure going tomorrow. I've had a hard time lately, so thank God for the workouts! (I ran/walked for 4 miles yesterday!! I'm so proud!) My jeans are fitting a bit loose, so that's encouraging. :)

Joseph and Eric came over for dinner last night and then we went to the gay bar and Jen and Craig met us out there. We had a really fun time, but I had a bit of a realization that I may be getting a little tired of the bar scene. Joseph and I both are feeling the same way about that.

So anyhow, everyone have a fun Saturday night!

Welcome to the World!

Just a quick congratulatory note to Andrew and Melissa Hsia!! They (well, Melissa did all the work!) just had a baby girl today, and mother and baby girl and doing wonderfully!



Just had to share happy news!

Yes, I'm a Liar.

I didn't get my pictures uploaded as promised. Please do not pelt me with rotten fruit if you see me out and about anywhere. I am going to shoot for Saturday to get that done. I went to support local music last night...Saints and Sinners played an awesome set at the Ardvark Bar in Ft. Worth. Pretty cool venue, I might add. The band before them was a beating for me to listen to, though. Actually the band was fine, the lead singer was terrible! They did a cover of Kelly Clarkson's "Since You've Been Gone" and I thought I would die. I should have stepped up on stage and offered to finish the song for them. Man, the suck-o-meter was off the charts! But all was good in the world when my Saints and Sinners boys got on stage! (And big thank you to Brian for putting me on the list!!)

Tonight I am having Joseph and some of his friends over for dinner and then we're going out for a bit. Tomorrow Joseph has a rugby game and I am going to go cheer for him. I've never been to a rugby game so this should be fun. I love hockey and from what I've seen on TV, rugby looks like hockey on steroids. Should be interesting!

Saturday night is looking pretty laid back. I'm waiting to hear back from Christy to see if she wants to have a little dinner, but if that doesn't work out I may just stay in and veg. It's been a long week! The idea of making dinner for myself and eating on the patio just seems like something nice to do for myself.

What is everyone else doing this weekend? Whatever you do, have fun!

Hugs to everyone!!

Wednesdays with Grampa

So I took my Grampa to dinner last night, and we had such a good time! We went to Mimi's Cafe and just talked and laughed and really enjoyed ourselves. My Grampa was instrumental in the aviation/engineering field back when everything was new. He helped to invent the predecessor to the "little black box" that is in all the cockpits now, and he even flew to Palm Springs with Howard Hughes for a milkshake! This man has great stories to share! We went back to the house and watched some TV, and talked a little more. He's doing well, but he says that mid-afternoons he starts to feel a little lost. But he's doing ok and is trying to figure out his new routine. I know he'll be fine. He let me take him to dinner on the condition that he buy next Wednesday, so I told him it was a date! I'm glad we're getting to spend time together like this.

I got my "Wow!" award at work yesterday and managed not to slip and fall on the CEO. I have pictures but didn't get them uploaded, so I will do that tomorrow. Besides, I haven't posted any recent pics and I need to do a side by side of my before picture and a current picture. I know I keep saying I'll do it...it's hard to look at the before picture now. But I am looking better these days, so I'll try and do that tonight so you can all see my progress.

Tomorrow Jacqueline and I are going running outside for my session, and with the weather as nice as it's getting, this should be great! I say that now...tomorrow may be a different story!

I talked to my cousin Jen last night. She's getting hit left and right with tough news. This past weekend, her father's house burned down (everyone is ok, thank God!) and then yesterday she got the news that her mother has cancer. Her mother is a breast cancer survivor and a very strong woman, so we are all praying for her to continue to be strong. Apparently the breast cancer came back and has spread to her lungs. She is having more tests done today, so we are hoping for a plan of action very soon. So when you say your prayers or send good thoughts out, please think of my cousin Jen's mom. (And Jen, too...she needs strength!)

So that's it for me for today. I hope everyone has a great day, and hugs to you all!

What Have I Gotten Myself Into?

So when I told my trainer I wanted her to work me harder, apparently I was smoking crack that day. Oh my gosh, I am about as useful as spaghetti today! We worked legs last night, and I am one sore girl! And when we work out on Friday, she's meeting me at my apartment and we're going running on the trail in my complex. I think I have some sort of disease where I can't shut up, so I just keep blurting out these great ideas about how we should work me out harder! Seriously, I'm glad we're going it, but I spent a majority of my week with sore arms/legs. At least it feels like progress!

I was so proud of myself last night...I got a lot done around the apartment. I still have some stuff to take to the Salvation Army or Goodwill, but other than that the place looks good! I am having some friends over for dinner friday night and would like for things to look decent. I think it's time to clear off some of the plants on the patio. I don't always do well with plants, even though I love them. Christy is wonderful with plants! I wish I had her green thumb!

Other than all that silliness, no news. I am having dinner with Grampa tonight, so I am really looking forward to spending some quiet time with him.

Have a good Wednesday!

Dragging a Little Today

I had some trouble sleeping last night, so I am dragging a bit today. I need to get it together because it's leg night tonight!

It's been a very busy day today with work. Spent most of my day in a training class, so I feel like I can't seem to catch up and am constantly interrupted. I think I need to lay low tonight and soak in a hot bubble bath after I work out. Maybe a manicure/pedicure/facial will be in order. Tonight is Law&Order SVU, so you all know where I will be at 9pm! (Parked in front of my TV!)

I am getting some crazy award tomorrow at work for going above and beyond for one of our member hospitals. It's funny to me because (and I'll spare you the silly details) the whole thing is just part of my job. I didn't think I did anything out of the ordinary, but apparently our employee recognition committee thinks so, and now I get to accept an award from the CEO and a $50 gift certificate to the place of my choice. Honestly, I'd rather not have to walk down the grand staircase to accept an award, as I am a bit clumsy and will probably fall on the CEO and make an enormous ass of myself. Nice, huh? I guess this means I need to do some laundry and ironing tonight. Wow...I sound so domestic!

I am having dinner with Grampa tomorrow night and I am looking forward to it. Mom had lunch with him today and says that he is really looking forward to it as well. Tomorrow will be the first Wednesday I haven't spent with Gran in a long long time, so I need this time with Grampa. I'm still waiting for all the reality to hit me and to have this huge tearful breakdown, but it hasn't happened yet. I get weepy over little reminders, though. Sometimes when I look at my watch (which used to be Gran's watch) I just stare at it for a moment and miss her. I hope I make her proud.

I am having some trouble with my diet right now. I think it's all the stress I've been under, so I am working like crazy to get back on track. I've missed my last 2 WW meetings, so I absolutely cannot miss this week. Thank goodness I've been working out!

One more important reminder...it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month. One of my favorite blogs is chock full of wonderful ways to support breast cancer research (Blonde, you are awesome for sharing all the info that you do!!). I'll try and borrow some of her links and if you are in a position to help, I hope you choose to do so. It's such a worthy cause!

Have a wonderful day and hugs to everyone!

Ah, Mondays!

So I'm back at work today. When I came in, there was a lovely sympathy card signed by my entire team and filled with beautiful sentiments. I truly love the people I work with! It made my eyes well up just a little, but it also made me smile. I miss Gran, but I know she is happy and well now. :)

It was really tough when the alarm went off this morning. I haven't been on a very consistent schedule for the last week. In a way, it's good for me to get back to work. I need to get to the gym tonight, and I need to do laundry and clean the apartment. Everything seems to have been neglected for the last week. I am having dinner with Grampa on Wednesdays now, so I am looking forward to that.

I had brunch with Joseph and some of his friends yesterday and we had a very good time. It was fun to get out and laugh like that, and I needed it!

My WW meeting leader, Sally, is moving to Michigan. This makes me very sad for many reasons, because she has been such an inspiration and a cheerleader for me. However, her husband has become very ill and they are moving to be near their family. I'm really going to miss her!

I think that's all the news for today. Its good to be back with some regularity! Have a good Monday!

Back in the Swing of Things

It's been a tough week with WW...people have been bringing lots of food by, but none of it is anything healthy, so tomorrow I am going to the meeting, but not weighing in. I've had enough bad news for a while! But I have been working out and I am trying to get back on track.

I sold my old car today...YAY! I have a friend whose son will get his license in January, and my old Civic will be perfect for him. I cleaned it out this morning and thought of all theplaces I have been in that car. Mostly I thought of driving all over Seattle in that baby. And then the long, LONG drive home from Seattle! I'll miss her, but I am happy to send her to a loving home. And I can still visit her from time to time. :)

I don't have any big news today. I am feeling good and have a real sense of peace about everything. I miss my Gran, but I know she's with me in spirit, and that makes me smile.

I hope everyone is having a great weekend! Hugs to you all!

A Sense of Normal

Today was the day we laid my beautiful Gran to rest. I was waiting all day for this to be when I just broke down and lost it, but that hasn't happened yet. The funeral was lovely, and I am sure that my Gran would have been pleased, but would have told us we were all foolish to make such a fuss over her. (and she would have most definitely used the word foolish!) We were so pleasantly surprised at the turnout of people. And three of my dearest and most special friends came out to offer their support, so a very special thank you to Mia, Joseph and Kevin. Words simply cannot express how much it meant to have you share this day with me. My Grampa summed it up perfectly: It was a sad and happy day today. My Gran always used to say that if we felt a breeze on the back of our necks at the funeral it was her. When we stood in the sweltering heat at the grave, Joseph lifted my hair off my neck as my cousin, Jen, asked me if I could feel it...a strong breeze came from nowhere, and I know it was my Gran doing just as she promised me. It was a small sign I had been hoping for all week, so it was a special moment for me. I feel peaceful right now, but I have my ups and downs. I am looking forward to getting back to some sense of normal. My Wednesdays were always spent with my Gran, but my Grampa and I are going to start having dinner every week. He's a great man and I love him so much.

It was good for me to sit down and read all my friends' blogs and see that there are other things going on in the world. I miss my daily interactions with so many of you. Don't be surprised to hear from me in the next few days as I start to re-enter the real world again. Everything has been such a blur. My cousin and I are going to get together when he gets off work tomorrow night and hang out. His wife is out of town and I think he may be feeling lost like me. It's a strange feeling when you truly don't know what to do with yourself and you don't know what you need.

So forgive me if I digress from time to time and talk about my Gran. I really like to keep things silly and fun here, but she is such an important part of my life. I know my last few posts have been downers, but things are looking up. I also want to say thanks to everyone who has so kindly offered condolences. I appreciate every kind word and thought more than I can ever say. Please know that I thank God for you all. You have helped me through a very painful time for me. And Blonde, I appreciate so much the connection we share. Thank you again for your support.

Tomorrow Mom and I are making cookies to take to the nursing home staff as a thank you. If you could see the love and respect with which they treated my Gran, you would love them as much as I do. :) How nice to know there are people like that in the world!

Have a wonderful day and hugs to each and every one of you out there!

Remembering My Gran

Edwina Christian Moller
1919 - 2005


Edwina Christian Moller, 86, passed away peacefully Friday, Sept. 23, 2005, in Fort Worth with her family at her side.

Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army.

Edwina was born Sept. 22, 1919, in Stambaugh, Mich., to John Christian and Eleanor Kelly. She trained as a pediatric nurse in Chicago, where she met her husband, Robert. They were married for 64 years. Together, they traveled extensively throughout the United States and many foreign countries. She loved travel, reading, needlework and, especially, her beloved kitty, Cozy.

Survivors: Husband, Robert Moller; daughters, Gail Moller Stewart and her husband, Frank of Bedford, Ann Moller Hungerford of Fort Worth; son, Robert Moller and his wife, Goldie of Cedar Park; grandchildren, Jennifer Stewart of Bedford, Darren Hungerford, Craig Hungerford and his wife, Jennifer of Arlington; great-granddaughter, Ashley Hungerford of Arlington.

Published in the Star-Telegram from 9/26/2005 - 9/27/2005.

A Prayer Request

I lost my Gran tonight. I feel a little lost and so oddly enough, this is what I chose to do. I need to write about her just a little.

She was a smart, independant woman. She traveled the world and saw things most of us could only hope to see in our lifetime. And she was warm and loving. Her last words were "I love you", and they were to me. I held her hand when she passed, and it was a peacful, beautiful moment. I am very lucky to have shared that with her.

So please, when you say your next prayers, thank God for his mercy. She isn't suffering any more.

I think I won't be blogging for a few days. I'll write again next week. Thank you to all of you who have kept my family in your thoughts for so long. I love you all.

Enjoying the Day, In Spite of the News

I got to sleep in this morning, and it was wonderful! (This means I didn't wake up until7!) I turned on the news and was greeting with all the info on that terrible bus crash. For those readers not in the DFW area, that crash was just a few miles south of Dallas. Top it off with the doom and gloom reporting of the the hurricane looming and the irrational craziness of everyone rushing to buy gas and water, it's like a madhouse here. I even got info on what to do in an emergency from my apartment complex. People, I think we'll be ok. I picked up some food last night but only because there's a chance if we get any storms we might lose power, but I doubt it would be for very long. I am ready to get on with fall!!

I am going to the gym in 30 minutes. This is the one I am dreading: Jacqueline promised me one heck of a workout. I'm scared! I'll let you know what that means if I can move later.

Tonight is Salsa dancing night!! I'm excited about that! I can test out my new moves and see how it goes! Hopefully I will get some pictures and then you all can laugh along with me!

That's it for now. Everyone have a great Friday!

My Friday

I am taking the day off tomorrow, so this is like Friday for me here in the office. I was originally going to go to the ACL Music Festival, but the tickets sold out and finances dictated that it was better to stay home. But I am ok with that! I am looking forward to taking it easy.

Tomorrow I am sleeping in a little bit, but I am seeing my trainer at 1pm tomorrow. I have been fairly warned that she is going to work me very hard, so I am to eat a good lunch. I hope I don't die! I am salsa dancing tomorrow night and I am really looking forward to that!! Still planning my wardrobe...I want to look festive. I have a great pair of (smaller) black pants and a great top that are the best candidates so far. I think I'll put my hair up to keep my neck cool...this salsa dancing makes me very hot! (It's one heck of a workout!)

I've been going to bed at 9 every night, and it's been a good thing. I am finally catching up on my sleep and feeling more energized. (Jacqueline could tell on Tuesday that I wasn't in my best condition!) It's amazing how not getting enough sleep can affect you! I'm going to work out tonight...my hamstrings are sore and I need to get them moving!

Have a good Thursday everyone!

Pointless and Silly

Saw this on another blog and thought it would be interesting to share:

7 Things I Plan to do Before I Die
1) Visit the Isle of Man (where my family is from)
2) Learn to play acoustic guitar
3) Be down to my ideal weight
4) Finish school
5) Own a BMW
6) Get good at Salsa dancing
7) Learn to walk gracefully in heels

7 Things I Can Do
1) Sing
2) Name all the states alphabetically
3) Tie a knot in a cherry stem with my tongue
4) I can multi-task like a pro
5) Make phenomenal chocolate chip cookies (mom's recipe-YUM!)
6) Make friends in any situation - I'm very outgoing!
7) Run for 2.5 minutes on the treadmill. Not a lot for most people, but an accomplishment for me right now!

7 Things I Cannot Do
1) Draw
2) Tolerate closed minded people
3) Say no to chocolate
4) Find my way around a foreign country...I seem to get lost a lot!
5) Pass by a MAC counter without stopping to look
6) Bunjee jump. I don't even want to try it!
7) Keep my plants alive. Those poor babies, I am bad luck for plants!

7 Things I Say Most Often
1) "Right on" or "Right"
2) "However"
3) "Perhaps"
4) "Fabulous!"
5) "Jacked up" (as in "that is so jacked up!")
6) "Whatever"
7) "Hello, friend!"

7 Celebrity Crushes
1) Adrian Brody
2) Johnathan Rhys-Myers
3) Benicio del Toro
4) Andersen Cooper
5) Jason Lewis
6) Trent Reznor
7) Joe Niewendyk

7 Things That Annoy Me
1) Slow drivers in the left lane
2) People who don't keep their promises
3) Constant lateness
4) Lack of consideration for others
5) Bad grammar/spelling
6) People who have to "keep up with the Joneses"
7) Bad service in restaurants

This was harder to do than I thought it would be!

SATC is the Most Truthful Show Ever

I am, and will always be, a very big fan of Sex and the City (SATC). I think this show provided a good insight into what it's like for us single gals. I say this because over the last week, there have been two incidences in which life has imitated art very closely. The most recent one involving my trainer. She was telling me last night that she and her fiancee have officially broken up. But it's how he did it that really hurt her. She was in the middle of training a client on Monday and she went up to the front of the gym for something and he puller her aside and told her he needed to come by and pick up his stuff from her house because they were over. Now really, is this how you would want someone to treat you? This reminded me of the SATC episode where Berger breaks up with Carrie on a post-it note. She then runs into his friends at a club and says a few regretful things, and his friends tell her that guys do things like that because women cry about breakups. And then Carrie makes the most important point: A woman wants an ending to a relationship to honor what they had together. So for my trainer, a two year relationship that was headed towards a wedding was ended with a two minute conversation about picking up his stuff from her garage. As you can well imagine, it was hell for her to try and get through the day. And as if it needed to be more insulting, Doug (her ex-boyfriend) told everyone at the gym before she even got there. So she was the last to know. Classy.

So this brought to mind some of my biggest relationship concerns, which can pretty well be summed up as a fear of the unexpected. Guys, when you date someone, if you need to break up or have a concern, talk to your girlfriend. Be open about things. Yes, she might cry and feel sad, but have enough respect for what you had to tell her in a private moment when you can talk about it. You can feel better about yourself down the line when you realize you did it the best way you could.

So onto a far less serious topic...I watched Dancing with the Stars last night, and I just LOVE John O'Hurley! (Who wouldn't love Mr. Peterman from Seinfeld?) I love the dancing and I really think John got shafted when they didn't win the original competition. I tried to call in my vote, but the phones were tied up and I couldn't get through. I never watch this kind of stuff, but I really enjoyed this show immensely! (What a dork, right?)

I worked out last night (leg night) and I am sore today! I bet tomorrow will be worse! I am taking the day off on Friday and we are going to work out at 1pm. I have been warned to be ready because we're going to push me very hard...interval training and super sets. I wonder if I'll be able to move Friday evening? I'm going salsa dancing with the class, and I hope I'll be able to get my groove on!

That's it for today. Have a great day. Sorry I started out a little preachy, but my trainer has become a friend and I hate when my friends are hurting.

Not Much to Report

It's Tuesday and it's not an exciting day. It's been busy at work and I didn't sleep well last night so I am tired.

I've just been overwhelmed at work with my regular job duties and then adding on the fact that I am heading up the Katrina Relief stuff for my division, I am swamped! We've managed for secure and deliver beds to 19 people who were sleeping on the floor of their new homes. We've also collected tons of housewares and we're still trying to get more for the families we've "adopted". It's good feeling to do this for others. Hopefully if I am ever in that position, people would be willing to help me, too.

Friday night is Salsa dancing! My class is going to a restaurant for dancing, and the instructors will be there to dance with us and have a great time. I've been really enjoying the classes and it's great exercise. My last class as a level one beginner is Saturday, and then I am moving up to level two. If I end up staying with this for a while, I'm going to buy some super fun salsa dancing shoes. They also have a competitive dance team and that might be fun to think about in the future. I'm not anywhere near that level right now...I'm just tying to learn the steps!

I think that's it for today. There's not much going on besides work. Tonight is leg night with my trainer. I really like her. She was engaged to the owner of the gym, but the recently called off the wedding because of some issues they wanted to work on. It looks more and more like they're going to break up, and she promised me that she'll continue to work at the gym. I hope so! If she goes anywhere else, I will too! This woman gets results out of me! But I really admire how she made such a hard decision (calling off her wedding). I think it might have been the best thing. I like the owner of the gym a lot, but no matter how wonderful someone is, if it's not going to work, you can't force it.

So NOW that's it for today. Have a good Tuesday everyone!

Monday Always Comes Too Soon

I'm never ready for Mondays to roll around! Hope everyone had a good weekend. My parents made it back from the coast and they had a lovely time.

Friday night I went out with Joseph for dinner and we met Mia. Her husband's band (Saints and Sinners) was playing later that night, so we went out to hear them and had a great time. Saturday was Salsa lessons (always a good time and a hard workout!), and then Saturday night Angela and I went to dinner. We went to Ama Lur at the Gaylord Resort. Good food! We ran into a coworker and had a glass of wine with them and really enjoyed ourselves. I got her the 2nd Bridget Jones movie as a birthday gift so we watched most of that.

Sunday I went to go see Gran, and she isn't doing great. She is just feeling yucky and not motivated to do her therapy at all. I am starting to think that she may not walk again, but I am hoping that isn't the case.

Also, great day at WW! I lost 2.5 more pounds for a total of 77.5 now!! I'm so excited about that!!

So that's it in a nutshell. Michael had to work Saturday night, so I am hoping to hear from him today.

Have a good Monday everyone!

The Morning After

I had the best date I've ever had last night! Here's the recap:

Michael and I had a great time last night! We met up at Sherlock's and had drinks (I got there a little early to have a drink to take the edge off...he was running a little late so I had two. I no longer had an edge at all, but that's a good thing since you guys know how worked up about this I was!) We talked non-stop for quite a while. I have no concept of time since I don't wear a watch so I am not sure how long we sat there, but after a while there was a band getting ready to play and we couldn't hear each other any more. So we decided to walk over to TGIFridays. As he was closing out the tab, the unthinkable happened: I was touching up my lipstick (MAC of course) and dropped my lipstick tube. So I start looking around for it on the floor, and he turns to see me searching and wants to know if I'm ok. So I explain casually (trying to hide my utter panic that I have just lost my MAC lipstick) what happened, and before I know it he's down on the floor looking for it! He was so sweet about trying to help me find it. We never did and I was very dismissive about it...but I liked the fact that he was such a gentleman about it!

So we walked over to Fridays and it was good because we could hear one another again. He was hungry so he got an appetizer, and we sat there for a while longer. After a while he excused himself to the men's room, and when he came back he walked up behind me and started rubbing my shoulders. He then proceeds to find the one area in my shoulder that no one ever manages to massage correctly (until now!) and the muscle is just in knots, so he suggests maybe if I wanted to go back to my place he would be happy to massage my shoulders. I am never one to turn down a massage! So back we went to my apartment. (When we left I was laughing and said I couldn't believe I lost my lipstick, and he offered to go back and find it for me! I said not to worry about it, but isn't that sweet?) So we're sitting on the couch at my place and we're still talking about anything and everything as he's really working my shoulders. (He has the strongest hands!) Both us of soon realize it's now 1:45am and we both go to work early. However, he has asked me out again, and he also invited me to go see Styx and Kansas with him and his friends - don't know when that show is but I told him we'd see and that it sounded like a lot of fun.

So that's it in a nutshell...probably the most fun I've had in forever. We never had a lull in the conversation. I can't wait to see him again!

A Day Like Any Other Day...

Except that I am having drinks with HotGuy tonight! I am taking off a half day to do some personal maintenance. (Eyebrow wax, touching up my haircolor, etc.) I wonder, do men realize the money and effort that goes into preparing for a date? I actually enjoy the process of getting ready to go out. I'm a makeup junkie (anyone who knows me realizes the understatement there) so putting my makeup on is my very favorite part. I get the most stressed out about what to wear...it's hard to look good without looking like you're trying. Well, it is for me, anyhow.

So there's my drama for the day. I am leaving work at 11 so I can go spend time with my Gran today. She was doing okay last night, but she's still feeling down. If I had to live in a nursing home I'd be depressed, too.

I am going to pick up a new pair of shoes for tonight as well. I need something strappy with a heel that will go well with my super awesome jeans.

I'll report in tomorrow with the details!!!

Tired Tuesday

I learned a very important lesson last night: don't work out so darn late!! I went to the gym later than I usually do last night, and found myself unable to go to sleep at a normal time. Since Mom and Dad are out of town ths week, I have been going over there to feed their cat and check the mail, etc. I went by last night to check on the cat again and sat down to check my email. I ended up surfing the net until 11:30 over there! So now I am sleepy this morning, and getting up was definitely a chore!

No big news last night. I had a great workout last night. I'm really able to push myself a lot harder thn I used to. However, I tried not to totally fatigue myself, as tonight is "Leg Night" and we all know the drill...I'll be sore and tired tomorrow. :) (Funny, but I really look forward to that!)

So after such an eventful weekend, today's post is a little empty. Nothing spectacular to report. There is shoe shopping in the works this week because I need new shoes for my salsa dancing class. (Feetman, I should make you go with me...I want something strappy and sexy!) I always like it when I actually NEED to go shopping! I am thinking I probably need a new shirt or something too. I do try to find ways to justify my shopping habits.

So that's it for now. Hope you all have a great Tuesday!

Superfabulous Weekend!!

I hated for Monday come! I ended up having a really good weekend! Friday night, Joseph came over and we went out to a gay bar in Ft. Worth and had a really good time! I don't know what it is about me, but I attract gay men like some kind of magnet. (I got offers from a couple of them to plan lunch and a trip to Sephora together!) But the best part of the evening for me was finding the one straight guy there...he's one of the dancers and this guy is incredibly hot! So hot, in fact, that I kept wondering if it was too dark and maybe he wasn't getting a good look at me! But we talked for a long time and then he had to get back to work (I wasn't going to be tipping him), but he came back again later and we talked more and then we traded email addresses - I don't just throw my phone number around to every hot guy I talk to, you know! And when I left he gave me a really nice hug. :D So I figured he was being nice to the one girl in the whole place, but he's already emailed me twice and apparently we're going to set up a coffee date. (He now actually does have my number, so we'll see if he actually calls) But even if he doesn't call, it was fun just talking to him. He lived in Switzerland for a while so we traded Europe stories, and he says he wants to hear all about Paris. I'm trying not to get too hopeful, as my dating track record isn't so promising, but we'll just see how it goes! :)

So then I went to salsa class on Saturday, and Blonde, you are so right! That was more fun than I imagined it would be, and I am thinking this is going to be something I'll be doing for a while! It was more exercise than I thought, and when our instructors demonstrated some dancing at the end, that was the clincher for me...I really need to find a partner and get good at this!

I didn't do much after that on Saturday. I took a nice long nap and then went to my parents for the evening. They left on vacation Sunday morning and headed down to the beach house on the coast, so I wanted to make sure I got to see them before they left.

Sunday I went to see Gran, and she's doing about the same. We visited for a while, and then I had to head on because I had Weight Watchers at 2:30, where I had some VERY good news:

I've lost 75 pounds now!!!

Yes, I have managed to hit the 75 mark only a week after I hoped I would! My next goal is to hit the 100 pound mark by January 1st. I work out enough, I should be able to do it but as I have learned, my body is going to do things at it's own pace. But I am one happy girl!

After that, I had a bunch of things to do, and after I got all that done, I ran my last errand, which was to take a dryer over to Joseph. So I did that and then we had dinner and went for a nice long walk. He is really getting in very good shape and is now playing rugby for a local team. I can't wait to go to one of his games and watch him play!

So that was my weekend in a nutshell. Hope all of you had a good one, too. Happy Monday!

Spicing Things Up

I am starting Salsa dancing lessons tomorrow and I am really looking forward to it! I've been needing something new and interesting, and I am thinking this will not only be fun, but good exercise as well. Now if only I had a dance partner!

Why does it always seem that when we have a short week at work, it inevitably feels really long? It's been a beating this week, but I think most of it has been the funk I've been in. (which I am coming out of. There are reasons for it, but I won't get into them here.) I'm just really glad it's Friday and that the weekend is here. I am looking forward to working out with Jacqueline tonight. It's arms night, and sometimes that's harder for me because I don't feel as strong in my upper body as I do in my legs. All the more reason to work my arms harder, right? I was going to have dinner with Christy tonight, but my girl is having allergy trouble and needs to lay low for the evening, which I totally understand. Maybe I'll just veg tonight. Starbucks has been hot guy central lately, but not so much the last couple of times I've been. Probably because I told several people and now I scared the hot guys away. That figures. I was thinking I might go up there and read and have coffee, but I'm not sure what I feel like doing just yet. I was up there last night and read the paper and had coffee, so I don't want to look like I have no life. Not that the barristas care what I'm up to, but I don't want to be THAT much of a regular.

So my weekend is now officially wide open. I'm going to find something FUN for me to do! Not sure what it is yet, but darn it, I'm going to have a good time!

The War on Spam

In an effort to reduce the number of annoying spam comments I get, I now have a word verification when you post a comment. It's pretty self explanatory, but just in case you wondered why I did it, now you know. Stupid old spammers!

Working My Way Back to "Normal"

Thanks to everyone who either posted or called me yesterday to check on me. I really appreciate it, and it made me feel very loved. :) I am doing better today. I got a good night's sleep, and Mom and Dad brought me dinner last night (and treated me to a tank of gas...THANK YOU!). I really am ok, just needed to have a little down time, you know?

I went to see Gran last night, and when I got there she'd had her hair done and put a little makeup on...she looked good! Her long time friend, Leigh, had come to visit so the three of us chatted it up like schoolgirls and I think it did Gran a world of good. After Leigh left, we watched some TV and just chatted about the news of the day. We had a very good visit, so I am thankful for one more good day with her.

Tonight I am going to workout after work and then go home and relax. For a short week, it's been a very busy one! We're still coordinating hurricane relief efforts here at work. We're trying to get our "Adopt-a-Family" program up and going so that we can start helping these families. I'll keep posting details about that here in case anyone has anything they'd like to donate.

I hope everyone has a wonderful day. Remember, tomorrow is FRIDAY!!

A Little Blue

Ever just go through a period of feeling really blah? I'm experiencing a little of that these days, and it's tough to shake. Some of it stems from having been on WW for so long and right now I am at a bit of a plateau, so it feels a bit frustrating. I know, I know...it's not about the scales, and really it's not that right now. I just feel like I'm not making any progress, which can't be true because I work out so hard and eat so carefully. I was talking to my trainer last night and she said that this is so very normal, and everyone goes through this. Somehow, though, it feels like it's just me going through this, and it's hard. I know it will pass, and I'm not giving up or anything, just contending with a speed bump right now.

Last night was quiet. Mom came by and we went for coffee. Starbucks was uneventful. (I sure am glad they built one by my apartment!) My workout was really good, and tonight I am going to go see Gran. She's really not doing very well. Mom saw her last night and said that she seems to be a little out of it, and just not feeling very well. My grandfather feels like perhaps it may be time to look into homecare options so that my Gran can just come home. She isn't able to do her PT, and the only thing she wants is to be home. I think it's going to be really hard for my grandfather to have her home, but it's something he really wants to do for her. I admire the way he takes care of her. I hope I'm lucky enough to find someone who loves me half that much.

So that's about it for today. Sorry to be a little less sparkly and upbeat, but I'll be more cheery tomorrow. :)

One very important thing I need to mention...

Happy Birthday Kevin!

I can't let one of my very best friends get by without a shout out! Have a good one, Kev!

Coming Back After a Long Weekend is Tough!

It's always nice to have time off, but it sure is hard to get back in the groove! It was a good weekend, but far too short to get everything done.

After getting off work at 11am Friday, I went home and did a few things around the apartment. Then I went off to meet Mia for lunch and we wandered the mall for a while. Then I met up with the family for dinner and then met Christy for a drink later on. It was so good to get caught up with her! We've both been so busy that we've not had time to get together. We called it an early night since we were both pretty tired! When I got home, I watched the news only to hear that there was a big need to get Pedialyte to the littlest hurricane evacuees, so first thing Saturday morning Mom and I get a bunch and took it to a relief center in Ft. Worth. They had lots of stuff, but are a little short on volunteers, so if you have the time, they need some helping hands!

Then we took my grandfather to breakfast, then on to see Gran. She's just still not doing so well. Her motivation has waned some, and she's very down. I don't blame her, but we don't know what to do to help her. It's a tough situation.

Saturday night, Joseph came over and we went out to Ft. Worth for the evening and had a blast!

Sunday morning included coffee at Starbucks, but apparently all the eye candy doesn't come out until later in the day. (Oh well!) Sunday was interesting. Kevin and I went to the roller derby. Yes, I now know where the local trash hangs out! It was really...interesting! But hey, now I can say I've been!

Monday was spent resting and I saw Angela and Kim Williams for a while. It's always nice to go to Angela's house. It's like a mini-vacation. :)

I didn't go to WW this weekend. I just needed a little break but I'm ok and on track, so please no lectures about don't give up. I'm not. I just needed a small break form the routine, but everything is fine. I am working out with Jacqueline tonight and it will be good to go work my legs tonight. I walked for an hour yesterday, so I haven't been slacking off.

Hope everyone had a good weekend!

Rolling Up My Sleeves and Getting Involved

I found the way to make a difference for Katrina victims. I am heading up my division's hurricane relief efforts at my office. We are about 65 people strong, and we're going to "adopt" several displaced families in the area. I am waiting to hear back from our CEO, but I can't wait to get this in gear and really help some people. I hate the helpless feeling I get from just watching the news, and now I can do something about it!!

Let's see...other exciting news...oh yeah! I get a new car last night! (Well, new to me) It's a 2002 Honda Civic, and I am one happy girl! It drives so nice, but more importantly, it gets very good gas mileage!! (Just in time!) I paid $2.99/gal last night and it made me sick to do it. I like what our president says..."Don't buy gas unless you need it". Okay...duh! Thank God for W's words of "wisdom"! (I'm going to end this political diatribe before it goes any further and I just get mad at him again!)

So tonight I am having dinner with the family and then meeting Christy for a drink. I am so looking forward to seeing her! We've not gotten together in a while so I am looking forward to getting caught up! Tomorrow night I am going out with Joseph. We've found a place in Ft. Worth he is interested in checking out, so I get to be the little straight girl at the gay bar! (It's going to be a lot of fun, and I don't mind one bit!)

So everyone have a safe holiday weekend!

Acts of Generosity

It warms my heart to see so many people doing things for others right now. My company is matching donations made to Red Cross, I hear about people in my company taking in refugees and helping them...it restores my faith in humanity. I have a ton of clothes to get rid of so I am trying to locate a local shelter to give them to so that people can have something clean and dry to wear. I was talking with a friend last night about how it's so hard to feel helpless...just watching the news is so hard because I can't just drive over there and help. So I am going to find ways to do what I can. If you can donate money to the red cross, please do it! Brian's band, Saints and Sinners, is trying to put together a fundraising show. As soon as I have details I will post it here and beg you all to come out and have a good time for a great cause.

Speaking of the band, they'll be having a show at the Lone Star Bar in Valley Ranch fairly soon. I need to get the dates from Mia, and I'll post that here as well. They're so much fun and I really like their music. They were awesome at Club Clearview last week!

On yet another note, important shoe sale alert:

Stockroom Sale
What: Shoes from Michael Kors, Anne Klein, Donald Pliner, United Nude, and more $29-$59.
Why: If the shoe fits …
When: Thurs.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Steven Spodek, 5600 West Lovers Ln., Pavilion at Lovers Lane, University Park (214-350-3883).

This ought to be a great sale! With names like that and good prices, I suggest stocking up. I am guessing they are clearing out their summer shoes, but we can wear those into October here! I get off at 11am tomorrow, so I may need to check that out!

I am working out with Jacqueline tonight...it's arms night! (Woo-hoo!) We're working out tonight because she is going out of town tomorrow. I think I am starting to see more changes in my arms, so I am looking forward to pushing myself a little further tonight.

That's all of my rambling for today. Have a good Thursday!

Rude Awakening

I was just stunned on my way to work this morning. In Bedford, the gas has already risen to $2.79, and in Las Colinas it's $3.05 (for premium, but still!). It's just unreal! I'm so glad I am not living on the west coast anymore! I don't think I could afford it! I was listening to commentary on NPR and the guy is right...we have no recourse. Our public transportation sucks, so we have no real alternative. So we just have to pay it, and my income isn't rising to match the cost of living. What's a single income girl to do?

On another note, I have decided to take a break from the news. It's breaking my heart to see what's happening on the gulf coast and I feel so helpless. I've been in tears watching all that footage on TV, so in order to keep my sanity, I am just going to get updates online and that's it. I have a bunch of clothes I can donate to local shelters that are housing hurricane refugees, and my company is doing a fundraiser next week and they will match all employee donations dollar for dollar, so I'll give money then.

On a less civic-minded note, I worked out my legs last night. HARD. I was able to run on the treadmill a lot longer, and I did 105 lunges! (I'm really proud of that!) I'm not feeling the pain yet this morning, but I typically feel it by mid day after I've been sitting for so long. My poor co-workers that have to listen to me groan!!

I stopped at Starbucks last night and got checked out by two hot guys...nice little ego boost for me, but also a good reminder why I should always look my best when I leave the house. (Last time I went to Blockbuster with Angela, there was a very attractive man there and I looked AWFUL!) So that's my advice for the day...just always look your best. You never know!

That's all for now. Have a good Wednesday!

Interesting Blog for Hurricane Info

I found a blog being updated by a woman in Baton Rouge. She's not in the thick of it all, but has documented interesting experiences. She at www.hurricaneupdate.blogspot.com. She's definitely worth checking out.

An Evening to Myself

After working myself out hard at the gym, I went home last night and just completely relaxed, and it was WONDERFUL! I made myself dinner and took it easy. However, I took it a little too easy, so I am glad Mom called last night and woke me up. (I fell asleep on the couch) It was a pretty uneventful night, but that's a nice change for me. I am trying to have more nights like this...it keeps me balanced.

I worked out hard at the gym. Between running on the treadmill and making myself lift some weights, I was pretty worn out last night, but it's such a feeling of accomplishment! Tonight we work out my legs, and I am looking forward to that. I usually end up sore, but it's a good kind of sore. :) Who ever thought that this would be something I enjoy as much as I do?

I'm feeling rather blah today. I wish I would win the lottery so I could do something besides work. I'd actually like to go to nursing school. I'm still trying to figure out how to make that happen. I'd also buy a condo if I won the lottery. I even have it picked out! It's not huge, and it's close to where I live now. They've just built some brand new ones and I love the outsides. Just for fun, I may have to go take a tour and see the insides. I'd also buy a BMW 325i. That's my car. So I have it all figured out. I guess I actually need to just buy a ticket now. I never remember to do that.

So that's about it. I am looking forward to a three day weekend coming up. No plans, just need to rest.

The Most Fun I've Had in a While

Starting with last Thursday, this weekend has been the most fun I've had in a while! (You all can read about Thursday night, so I'll start with Friday...)

Friday night, I went with the two Kims to the Greenville Bar & Grill, and it was a ton of fun! As usual, Elvis T Busboy was awesome! We stayed there until last call, and Kevin even came up and joined us for the night! (He had to stay a little longer to be sure he was ok to drive.)

Saturday was great. Gran is doing ok, but she's still a bit down. Hopefully she will make it to her PT today. Saturday night was my "Cooking Class for Singles" at Central Market in Ft. Worth. It was fun, but not quite what I expected. There were absolutely no men to be found there. I also got a glimpse into my life if I am still single at about 45. It was a little scary, but Kevin reminded me that it really is better to be single than married to some jerk and be miserable. (He's very right!) But it was fun and the food was really good. I may need to make a few things and have everyone over for dinner sometime soon.

Sunday was relaxing. Got up and went to the gym, then went to Weight Watchers. I gained .5 pound, but I am really not worried about it. I am chalking it up to the heavy meal Saturday night, so that .5 will be gone by next week. :)

Hope everyone else had a good weekend! Please say prayers for all our friends on the Gulf Coast...they're in for a rough day.

The Morning After

I had such a great time last night! First, I met Joseph for dinner at Deep Sushi (great food, BAD service!). It was fantastic getting caught up with him. We laughed and had a marvelous time! Then we caught up with Mia and Brian since they were pretty much across the street from where we had eaten. Brian had to get back to Club Clearview, but Mia and Joseph and I went to the Velvet Hookah and had a few martinis. Me, who just about never drinks anymore because I don't want the calories had a couple of chocolate martinis, and let me tell you they were so worth it!! The three of us had such a great time. Joseph looks happier than I have ever seen him and it seems that his life is really going very well. Mia and I are so happy for him! The three of us are going to plan to go dancing sometime in the near future. :)

So Saints and Sinners played last night and it was another great show! They sound fantastic!



The drummer's friend, Robin, has a boutique and does monthly trunk shows and she is going to put Mia and I on her list to be invited to one. (That's so right up our alley!)

So after a very late night, I am pretty tired this morning. I am working out with Jacqueline at 5:30, and I am hoping to have a second wind by then! Afterwards I am going to take a shower and a quick nap, and then off to Mia's so that we can go see Elvis T Busboy tonight. I think it's not going to be too late of an evening for me, though. I have my cooking class at CM tomorrow night, and that ought to be fun as well.

So everyone have a good Friday!

Such a Lovely Problem!

So I went to go buy a new pair of jeans last night after visiting with my Gran. I found a great pair of Levi's low rise slim fit jeans. I never try anything on in the store, so I just paid for them (and 2 great fall sweaters) and headed home. I decided to try everything on, and nothing fit...everything was TOO BIG!!! I did a very comical version of the happy dance all over my apartment!! However, I now have to take everything back and exchange it...for a SMALLER SIZE! (woo-hoo!) So that totally made my day. (I didn't even have to unbutton the jeans to take them off!)

Other than that, no big news. Gran is feeling really down about still being unable to walk. It's so hard for her, and it's hard for us all to see her so sad. She continues to try and do her therapy, but some days are just harder than others. They put her back on O2 yesterday because her levels dropped a bit. I am hoping it won't be for long because she just hates that O2 tube so much.

I'm having dinner with my long not-so-lost friend tonight, and I am looking forward to seeing him. It's been forever! Brian's band is also playing at Club Clearview later tonight, so I may head over there after dinner. Maybe JDM will come along and make a night of it? We'll see. It's nice to reconnect with friends. And if anyone is in the neighborhood, you should totally check out the band tonight! (Saints and Sinners) They're really good, and it will be a good time.

So that's it for now. Have a good Thursday!

Out of the Blue

I had the best surprise yesterday! I got an email from a friend I had not heard from in months, and it was really great! Lots of things going on for this friend, and I am happy they would email me to say hello. So hello to my long lost friend, who is no longer lost! :)

Worked out with Jacqueline last night. Just when I thought I had mastered the lunges, she throws me a curve...I am now working on backwards lunges. Those are HARD! I thought I was coordinated, but these are proving me wrong. Man, these things are going to take some work!

I am going to a cooking class at CM Saturday night. It's a cooking class for singles, and I am going to learn to make a Tuscan feast. I think this means there may need to be a dinner party in my future. I used to hostess them all the time in Seattle, but I haven't done it much here. I need to do that more, because I really do enjoy entertaining. It's nice to spend an evening with friends like that.

Tonight I am going to see Gran. Mom saw her last night and she wasn't doing that well. She's a little more depressed and isn't doing as well in therapy as she would like. She apparently was rather quiet and didn't seem as interested in things as usual. I am going to take her some flowers tonight and hopefully that might help cheer her up. As much as she has been through it would be hard for me to feel very cheerful, too. If only she could get strong enough to walk so that she could get out of that nursing home.

So that's about it for today. Hope everyone has a great day. Remember, the week is halfway over now!!

Back on the Treadmill

I got back to the gym last night, and it was great! My back is feeling much better, so I got in a good workout. I can tell I hadn't been to the gym in a few days, so training tonight should leave me a bit sore. However, my muscles are rested and ready to go!

I went to Target last night to pick up a couple of things and found a shirt I liked...in a SMALLER SIZE!! (I am one happy girl!) I didn't wear it today because I thought I had a meeting and want to look a little dressier, so I am saving it for a more casual day.

It's a little stressful today as we have several people out, but it's going to be ok. But needless to say, I am keeping this short so I can get back to things. Hope everyone has a good day! :)

Back to the Grind

Well, it's a Monday and I am back after a long weekend. I would love to have had a few more days off to relax! It appears we had some system trouble here at work on Friday...glad I wasn't here for that!

Nothing new to report, really. Still feeling good about my 4.5 pound loss yesterday. :) Big thanks to Holly and her mother-in-law for fixing my glasses for me! (I don't wear them much but I hate not having them in case I need them!)

My back is MUCH better today so I am planning to hit the gym after work today. I haven't been since Thursday since I jacked up my back, but I am feeling good and want to get back to the routine. It's funny how much I have missed it!

So that's it for today. Have a good Monday!

The Scale is My Friend Today

So after a few weeks of struggling with muscle gain, I lost 4.5 pounds this week for a total al 70.5 now! I feel like I am floating on a cloud! :) It's been a great day, but mostly because of my friends at my WW meeting. What an amazing group of friends I have there! It's nice to be supported and give support to others!

Friday was a great day. Mom and I got manicures and went to a cooking class at Central Market. We visited with Gran for a bit and then wandered around the University Drive shopping area. It's fun to just wander around. It was very relaxing! At some point during the day I managed to turn wrong and I pulled some muscle in my side so I haven't worked out in a couple of days, but I am ready to hit the treadmill tomorrow.

Friday night was very musical. My friend Kevin and I went to go see one of our favorite local artists, Robin Hackett, who was playing in Dallas, and then we drove up to Denton to catch Mia's husband's band, Saints and Sinners. They were really good! They're playing at Club Clearview this Thursday night, and I think I am going to try and go up there if they don't go on stage too terribly late. If you can, you should check them out!


















This Friday is Elvis T Busboy at Greenville Bar & Grill, and as always, that should be an awesome show. I am all about the local music these days!

It's been a good weekend. Not quite ready to go back to work, but we'll have another 3 day in a couple weeks for Labor Day. I want to really do something fun, but I have plenty of time to plan. There's a cooking class for singles at CM this coming weekend, and I am thinking of checking that out. Might be a nice way to meet other singles! :)

Everyone have a great day!

My Equivalent of Friday

I am taking the day off tomorrow, so this is like a Friday for me here at work. (Yay!) My mother and I are going to get manicures and go to a cooking class tomorrow, and I am really looking forward to that. Then tomorrow night, I'm going to see one of my favorite local musicians, Robin Hackett. She's incredible! And after that, I'm heading up to Denton to see Mia's husband's band (Saints and Sinners) play. They're really good! I'm going to take the digital camera so I will have some new pics to post. (Both of the bands and of me!)

I conducted my first team meeting as the Team Lead. It went well, but I wasn't expecting any problems. I get a little nervous speaking in front to people, which is odd because I started out in college as a vocal performance major and have sung in front of lots of people and it never bothered me. But I was pleased with the meeting and the team seems to respond well to me, so I am feeling good. I'll feel even better when my raise shows up on my next check (It will be retro to August 1st, so it's going to be a nice check).

I am working out with Jacqueline tonight instead of tomorrow since tomorrow is my day to play. I've been printing her wedding invitations for her, and I am pleased. They look really nice. I got everything done and will be able to hand it off to her tonight. I know she's excited. (She is engaged to the owner of the gym)

That's it for today! Thanks to everyone who submits supportive comments here. It's really nice and sometimes reading your "pep talks" really does help me keep going.

Have a wonderful day!

It's Really NOT About What the Scale Says!

So I worked out with Jacqueline last night and we decided to take my measurements since it had been a month since we'd done that. I've lost a bunch of inches!! So all of you wonderful people who took the time to remind me that it's not just about what the scale says were exactly right! And thank you for reminding me of that. It's so easy to get caught up in a number, and although I want to see the pounds coming off, it's so nice to see the inches going away, too! :)

I'm trying to find a copy of this month's Vanity Fair magazine, because I would like to read the Jennifer Anniston interview. I went to 3 grocery stores and Barnes and Noble last night and was unable to find a single copy! If any of you have that magazine or see a copy somewhere, please pick it up for me and I will be more than happy to reimburse you for it! I'm tired of looking for it! (I had no idea it would be so popular!)

In other news, I am wanting to go back to Paris so bad! Kim mentioned it to me yesterday and really made me want to go! We're taking a girl's trip to NYC next May, so it might be hard to do. However, my friend Wendy found a good deal to Paris a few Januarys ago just looking through the paper, so maybe I'll set money back and keep my eye out for a trip over there. I'm really wanting to go back. There is still so much to see and do, and I would love to just go walk around Paris for a few days. I'd want to stay at the same hotel and go visit some of the places in the neighborhood. Maybe check out some of the more bohemian neighborhoods and watch some of the artists on the streets. *sigh* Kim, we have GOT to go back!

Enough daydreaming. I have a bunch to do today, so that's all the blogging for now. Have a good Wednesday!

Stuck in the Rain

Last night I did my grocery shopping. When I got to the store, it wasn't raining. However, as soon as I finished up, I was checking out and I thought I could hear it raining but I never expected it to be raining so hard! I couldn't get out to my car! I had to stand under the awning with everyone else and wait for it to let up. After about 15 minutes it let up, but just a little. I decided I was really ready to get home, so I rolled up my pants and took off my flip flops and made a dash for it. In just the minute it took me to get to my car, I got completely soaked! Which led me to think that there needs to be some sort of service that roams the parking lots in bad weather taking people to their cars! (I would totally have shelled out a few bucks for a ride to my car!) Good job idea for high schoolers, I thought!

This morning when I woke up, I hopped out of bed to turn off the alarm clock, when I heard a small crunch sound. Apparently I fell asleep with my glasses on, and at some point last night I took them off and they didn't make it to the nightstand. Yep. I stepped on my glasses. So now I have to budget that in as well. I was really wanting to buy new shoes this pay period, but that may have to wait a little longer. I don't wear them too often, but I like having them in case my contacts aren't doing well for me. (like yesterday...my eyes were burning with all the stuff in the air, so I had to wear the glasses) It's always something, isn't it?

So that's about it for today. Hope everyone has a good day!

Things to Not Ask Me About Today

My weigh in didn't go well yesterday. I gained a pound, and again, it came as a surprise. Everyone keeps telling me it's muscle, and I know it's not what I'm eating, but damn! So I am hoping to get through the day with as few people as possible asking me about how WW is going.

I had a relatively uneventful weekend. The ice cream festival Saturday was a bust...they ran out before any of my group got any, which is just as well for me! But it was a long day of driving around and that got old for me. I think I'll pass next time they invite me to go. But I did get to go see Elvis T Busboy Friday night and that was great!

So that's my weekend pretty much. Hope everyone has a good Monday!

Big News For Me!

Just a quick update...I just found out I got a promotion! :) I'ts not a huge one, but it comes with a pay increase, so I am a happy gal!

Just had to shout it from the rooftop! Have a great Friday!

TGIF!!

I am so glad it's Friday! It's been a very long week, and I'm ready for a break. I saw March of the Penguins last night, and it was too cute! (Who doesn't love penguins?) I had no idea that penguins court one another and cuddle! And the baby penguins are so precious! Anyhow...it's a good documentary and I really enjoyed it. It was a nice diversion from the stress of the workday.

I got a good workout in last night as well, so I am a little tight in the hamstrings today. However, it's arms night tonight so it shouldn't be too bad. After that I am going to go home and clean up and head over to Kevin's. We're going to go see Elvis T Busboy tonight!! I am very excited about getting and relaxing this evening.

Tomorrow I am going with the family to "Crankfest". It's a home-made ice cream festival. I am going along for the free lunch, but am skipping the ice cream. It's going to be tough, but I am determined to have a good weigh in this week. :)

So that's the scoop. Sorry for the lack of posting yesterday, but I figured you've had enough of "Nothing new with me" so I thought I would take a day off from posting. One more thing....Gran is doing really well! They've had her up and using a walker to get around, so she is making big progress! I am hoping she will be home before the holidays!

So have a good Friday!

Halfway to the Weekend!

It's been a long week, and it's only halfway done! (Ugh!) I am so sleepy today and I can't seem to get going. I think a cup of coffee may be in order. I worked out hard last night, so I am a little sore today, but nothing like last week!

This week has been pretty uneventful for me. Got my car back from the shop, and it's doing great. Tonight I am going to go see Gran. She's doing really well! She is making big improvements in her therapy and she wants to be home before football season gets too far along. (I didn't know she was such a fan!) Tomorrow night I am going to go see March of the Penguins. I can't resist it! The commercials are too cute, and I always like things Morgan Freeman has anything to do with, so I bet it will be good. (And penguins are SOOOO cute!)

I am getting Anchorman on DVD (thru Netflix) today, so I am saving it to watch Friday night. Now everyone that keeps telling me to see it can leave me alone. And if it sucks, I am sending an email to all of them to thank them for recommending a crummy movie! (But I do like Will Farrell)

So that's it for today. Have a good Wednesday!

Welcome Home, Discovery!

It's nice to start the day with good news! Space shuttle Discovery and the entire crew are home safe, and it was wonderful to watch! I found myself feeling anxious as I watched and waited for them to make it through re-entry, and part of me wanted to jump up and cheer when we heard Commander Eileen Collins' transmission that the shuttle had come to a complete stop. What good news that they're home safe!

In less important news, my car is in the shop. :( It started hemorrhaging coolant, so I am have some hoses replaced. (Big fun!) It's also leg night, so rest assured I will be a bit sore tomorrow. I need a good workout tonight! (I took last night off)

No big news for me personally. I'm just happy our space shuttle crew is home!

A Peaceful Weekend

It was a nice weekend. I got to relax on Friday night with Kim and Mia while we watched a little Sex and the City and got caught up on the latest gossip. Saturday morning, went to see Gran (who wasn't feeling just great, but is doing better), and then spent the afternoon lounging at Angela's pool. Then she took me to dinner at Mi Cocina's in Southlake where they were having "National Night Out" and the Southlake firemen and paramedics were out showing off their trucks. Naturally, Angela and I had to go take a look! We chatted with a fireman, but he had a ring on so we did a little more window shopping but it appears that all the Southlake boys are married! So off to dinner we went. Mi Cocina's makes very good grilled chicken and veggies, for those of you watching what you eat. After that we wandered around and looked in the store windows and then Angela brought me home. It was a nice evening and it felt good to get out.

And then there was Sunday. I worked out for 45 minutes on the treadmill, doing 60 seconds of running and then two minutes of walking and alternating back and forth. I was looking forward to my weigh in since I had been so good this week and got in 6 nights of exercise. So you can only imagine my shock and dismay when I got on the scales to find that I had gained .5 pound. This was so disappointing! I'm so close to the 75 pound mark, and my body went the other way! I know it's probably because I am gaining muscle, but come on!! It's just frustrating. I know many of you might suggest I get over myself and it's only a half pound, but as hard as I work out and as careful as I try to be about what I eat, this was a big disappointment for me. So after WW I went home and changed clothes and walked/jogged to mom and dad's for dinner. After that we visited for a while and then I went home to get a good night's sleep.

So that was my weekend. I got to relax, and this week will hopefully feel less stressful. Have a good Monday!

Finally! I Feel More Relaxed!

I managed to get some rest last night and I feel so much better! After work, I decided to go home and rest for a bit. I made dinner for myself (something I haven't had time to do in forever!) and soaked my feet in a rejuvinating, bubbling foot bath. Afterwards, I cleaned the kitchen and enjoyed some quiet time watching a little tv. Then I decided to go work out, and it felt good! My legs have been so sore and it felt good to stretch those muscles out.

After that, I stopped by my parents' house to visit, but at 9:12pm they were fast asleep! So I dropped by to visit my friend Cindy and her family and stayed a little late, but it was good to laugh and visit with them. I got home around 11:00 and went right to bed and slept to so well! I've been in a much better mood today, and am looking forward to working out tonight. After the workout I am going to Mia's to hang out with her and Kim, and I am really excited about that! We need a girl's night!!

It's a bit crazy here at work today, but I have comfort in the knowledge that I am out of here at 4pm.

Have a good day everyone!

Being Refreshed

Lately it seems that I can't find a way to really unwind. I've been stressed and tired and not sleeping as well as I would like. It's hard for me to find a way to refresh myself, so I am going to spend time tonight indulging myself. My plan is to (and I HAVE to do this today) stop and get my oil changed and then go to the gym. After the gym begins the real relaxation (I hope). I am going to pick up my favorite WW friendly dinner from Chili's (the Guiltless Grill Black Bean Burger) and then head home. I"m borrowing my mother's foot bath and soaking my oh so tired toes in this wonderful minty-fizzy stuff from Angela as I enjoy dinner. I have a paraffin dip, so I am doing my hands and feet, and then giving my toes a good polishing. I'm also going to give my skin a good toning and cleansing. I just need to de-escalate from the week and I think this will help me feel better. I would go shopping, but the budget is a little snug until the 15th, and I hate to window shop. :)

What do you do when you are stressed out and need to unwind? I really would love some suggestions!

What People Say When They Think You Can't Hear

Ever wondered what people say about you when they don't know you're listening? I found out yesterday. I went to the gym after work, and I went into the ladies' locker room to change clothes. The locker rooms are designed so that there isn't a door but no one can see into the room, which means you can hear people talking in the hallway. I had finished changing and sat down to put my shoes on, when I hear Doug, the owner (and my trainer's fiancee), talking about one of Jackie's clients who has lost a significant amount of weight. This piqued my interest, as I am always interested in other people's success stories, so I listened a little closer. He went on to say that he knew this girl was going to reach her goal, because he had never seen anyone with this kind of drive and determination. Again, I found myself thinking how great this girl must be doing! So I get ready to work out and walk around the corner, and there's Doug and two of his clients. Doug looks at me and says "speak of the devil!" Me! He was talking about ME!!! So the guys were very interested in how I had lost weight and how long I had been working out. I answered questions and then went on to go work with Jackie. A little later, Doug came by and thanked me for "lighting a fire" under his clients, and he had hoped he didn't embarrass me. Embarass me? Who wouldn't love a pat on the back like that? That made me feel like a million dollars. So now I know what some people say about me behind my back. And it makes me feel good!

Back to the Usual

Yesterday I left work because of a headache, but I'm back to "normal" now and feeling good. I mostly slept yesterday and when I started feeling better, I went to the gym and worked out. It's amazing how much better I feel after working out! Went to dinner with the folks for their anniversary last night. (Man, I love the grilled shrimp at Saltgrass!) Other than all that, I don't have much news.

If anything exciting happens to me today, I will certainly update the site. Otherwise, have a good Tuesday!

Getting Closer

It was a busy weekend, but the big news first...I lost another 2.5 pounds for a total of 68! This means only 7 more until I hit my next goal of 75 pounds gone! This was very exciting for me! :)

In other news, Saturday was insanely busy. I went to see Gran, whose spirits are great and she is really ready to get back into her PT. She starts that again today, so I am excited for her and cannot wait to hear how it went. After I saw Gran, I went to go see my friend Anne, she was having a good day and not having a headache. We watched Legally Blonde and had lunch, and then I had to head on. I needed to stop and get a birthday gift for Christy and a housewarming gift for Jessica and Joe. After getting that done, I ran home and got ready to hit the party circuit. You know, I don't have that many parties to go to, so why the two I had this month ended up on the same night is beyond me!

So off to the party. Jessica's housewarming was first. Her house is gorgeous! Our little work clique was there, so we laughed our heads off until about 8:30, and then those of us from the office all had to head our separate directions. I went on to Christy's birthday gathering at The Pour House. Kevin went with me, and we got there around 9pm. Rich had taken Christy to a nice dinner at Del Friscos, and he got a room at The Worthington for them as well. We got there and hung out until about midnight, when my head had really started to pound, so I needed to go home. We said the goodbyes and Kevin dropped me off at the apartment. I was so tired that I just crashed out when I got home.

Sunday was uneventful. Got up, cleaned house, worked out, went to WW, did the grocery shopping, took a much needed nap, and then got some dinner. It was late when I ran up to Subway, but I didn't mean to take such a long nap. I pretty much ate and then went to bed. I have got to manage my schedule better!

I have a slight headache today...residual from the weekend I think, but hopefully it will pass.

Oh, Happy 36th Anniversary Mom and Dad!

Here's a picture of me from Saturday night. It's not the best, but here it is...



That's it for now. Have a good day!