My Life as Mrs. G.

Football Season is BACK!!!

2014-09-25T13:21:00.000-04:00

Oh Football Season how I've missed you; especially after visiting the Cowboys Stadium over the Labor Day weekend. (I promise, I'll eventually get around to posting about this visit)

I must say, I'm the suckiest blogger ever...I WANT to be able to blog more, I NEED about 12 extra hours in my day, but I WILL continue to attempt to be the blogger I want to be. For now, please be patient with me.

Although Football season is weeks in, I will complete this post on the Cowboys vs the 49ers game because my sister and I were rivals on this day!

If you're a fan of either team or just a Football junkie like me, this was one of the most stressful games I've ever watched. I seriously thought I was going to get an ulcer.

My sister had a field day sending me texts and pictures of my Dad (who knows nothing about the sport) wearing a 49ers hat. But as always my sweet Mama always supporting my football issues, saying at the end of the 3rd, the Cowboys still have a chance. Gotta love my Mom!

Here's my Pops sporting a 49ers hat (UGH) and saying 2 interceptions, and that the Cowboys SUCK! (Waaaahhhh) Whatever Pops!

Final:
Cowboys: 17
49ers: 28

On another note... the Hubs is also a huge Dolphins fan (says he just has to represent his city) and was very happy with the game against the Patriots. I must admit, I too was happy that they didn't let the Patriots beat them at home.

Final:
Dolphins: 33
Patriots: 20

Cowboys Week 2 and Week 3

☆ Cowboys beat the Titans 26-10
☆ Cowboys beat the Rams 34-31

Paint Nite

2014-09-08T16:31:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago the girls from work and I got together for some drinks and painting at Fado Irish Pub in Brickell Village and attempt a work of art that exceeds our elementary skills.

These classes are so much fun, you get to hang out with your girlfriends, have some wine, and show off your artistic skills while attempting to keep all the paint on your canvas and off your clothes.

If you haven't yet taken one of these classes, I recommend you grab a few of your Girlfriends, Sisters, Moms, Aunts, Grandmas, and even your significant others, everyone WILL have a great time, no experience needed. Be sure to check out Living Social and Groupon specials, they usually offer them in many cities. Some will allow you to bring your own bottle, and others you have to purchase your drinks. Be sure you read all the details before purchasing.

Here are some pictures from our Paint Nite:

"I paint objects as I think them, not as I see them." -Pablo Picasso

All ready to use my kindergarten finger painting skills...

My circle...

The Beautiful Ladies...

I introduce you to my journey "Around the World"

Seattle Space Needle, Eiffel Tower, Pyramids, Statue of Liberty, Sydney Opera House, the Arc de Triomphe, Gateway Arch, The Colloseum, and the Taj Mahal.

Our Masterpieces

I think we all did pretty Ahmaaaziiinnngggg!!!!

One advice I can give you, for those who are a bit clumsy like me, be sure to wear something you don't absolutely love, because if you get paint on your clothes, it won't come off.

You can read all about my first experience here: "A Painting Fiesta"

One Year of Marriage Bliss

2014-02-01T13:33:00.000-05:00

As I sit here and prepare this post, I think back to when I was a little girl and try to remember if I ever dreamed of getting married or if I ever played with my dolls and married them. Sadly, I don't think I ever have. I do however, recall running outside, playing football with the guys, jumping fences, rolling in the mud, climbing trees, catching bugs, and getting my knees scraped. Ha, I was such a boy.

I believe I was 21 or 22 when I first pictured myself getting married and subscribing to wedding magazines, websites and clipping out pictures of things that I just had to have on my wedding day. Of course nothing I imagined back then really became a reality today, in fact this time around I didn't subscribe to any magazines, or websites, or clip out any pictures, or jotted down any ideas. Sometimes things unplanned work out better than those planned.

On this day, one year ago at approximately 1:30pm I married the man I had always wished for, the one that makes me smile, laugh till my tummy hurts, loves me unconditionally, and spoils me rotten. He is my best friend, my confident, my companion, my lover, and my partner in crime. Everyone says that the first year of marriage is the hardest, yet I'm still waiting for the worst to come. If in this first year we've had more than 2 or 3 disagreements I'd say it was too much.

My Mom and I have a really great relationship, we can talk about anything and everything. When I lived at home we'd stay up talking till the wee hours of the night, even today that I'm married we speak everyday like if we haven't spoken in ages and on my weekend visits we're still up chatting away. Of all the conversations I've had with my Mom I will never forget the one I had a few nights before I got married. She said; "Remember "There's never a war without a Challenger". What she meant by that is, if he argues, yells, fusses, etc you stay quiet and let him calm down. If you argue, yell, and fuss, he shall stay quiet and let you calm down. When either of you have calmed down ONLY at that time you shall speak and work out your problems." I must say, we've both have followed this advice, and it works like a charm.

So today, I'd like to share with you all a few of the many memories we shared in our
First Year of Marriage.

I can't wait to look back 10 years from now and see how many more memories we've made!

As for our Anniversary Celebrations...

We decided to spend the weekend at my favorite place in the world, Disney World :) (Yes I'm super spoiled) The night before we left, we decided we'd exchange gifts. The hubby's Mom gave me a copy of a list with me of wedding anniversary themed gifts by year that she received the day she got married. The Hubs and I decided that it would be fun to follow this list till after we're old and wrinkly.
On the list for the theme for your first year is "PAPER"

I spent weeks researching and planning on what I can give him that's made of paper. I thought of a personalized newspaper article to have delivered on our anniversary morning, but it requires to submit your order like 60 days in advance, so I had to scratch that idea, and a million other thoughts came to mind but there was either not enough time to complete it, or it just seemed almost impossible. After weeks of planning I decided that I'd make him a scrapbook of our story out of construction paper. As I went through all the pictures and events we've attended, and movies we've watched, little notes of special moments we've shared the book was almost 30 pages. On the last page I created a formula of what our first year of marriage was worth based on our date of birth, our first email, first date, kiss, proposal, marriage, etc and totaled it up and then divided it up by 2 (because after you're married what belongs to him, is half mine) and whatever that total turned out to be, I gave it to him in a gift card that said "You Complete Me". Trust me when I say he loooooovvvveeeed it!

My Paper Gift from the Hubs was the sweetest thing I've ever received. So he printed out from google maps the locations of where we met, where we married, and where we live today and pinned them to this frame. The best part is that as you may know, I'm obsessed with Mickey, and finding all the hidden Mickeys in Disney. On my card he wrote; "enjoy finding all the hidden Mickeys". I was confused at first because as you may see there are no Mickey's in this frame. The hidden Mickeys are on the back side of these printed pictures. The paper he used was a scrapbook page of hundreds of tiny Mickeys.
I think he earned his A+. That's not all he spoiled me with, I got a Pandora Locket and Earring Set and a new MKors bag. I'm SPOILED ROTTEN, I know.

On our way to Orlando, he took me to breakfast at a little cafe in Deerfield Beach, where we enjoyed the most beautiful view of the ocean.

See what I mean? The weather was nice and you could hear the waves crashing... it was perfect. When we arrived in Orlando we did some shopping at the Outlet Malls.

The next day we spent the day at Epcot and had a nice romantic dinner at
Landry's Seafood House

Our table was off to a corner with low lighting and candles it was a perfect setting. The food there was yummy and the dessert was delicious. After dinner we hit Downtown Disney and enjoyed some of the live entertainment. Later we went on the Character in Flight Air Balloon and enjoy the views of Orlando from 400 feet in the air. We did this on our mini honeymoon trip during the day time and always said I wanted to go back and do it at night. The view at night is spectacular, everyone must definitely do this once.

Here's our souvenir picture :)

Later we planned to go to Magic Kingdom for the firework show, but it started raining so we called it a night. The next day we did the Character Breakfast at Cape May Cafe, this is one of my favorite Disney Dining Restaurants, the breakfast buffet is filled with all sorts of yummy stuff, from fruits to Mickey Waffles, to fresh salmon and a variety of pastries. While you're dining Goofy, Donald, and Minnie come by your table to greet and take pictures.

Here's our picture with Goofy.

I'm definitely looking forward to celebrating year 2 of our marriage.

Next Year's Theme is: "Cotton" can't wait to see what we both come up with.

Falling into Fall Swap {REVEAL}

2013-10-15T23:30:00.000-04:00

I love everything about FALL...although living in South Florida you don't really get to enjoy the seasons, I do however live vicariously through all those who do get to enjoy the cooler weather and the fall colored leaves.

This is the 2nd year I participate in the "Falling into Fall Swap" and this year I met Jessica over at Adventures in Ginger Mommyhood

After spending a few days stalking her blog I learned that she likes a lot of similar things that I do which made shopping for her a piece of cake. Be sure to head on over to her little spot and say hello and get to know her and her little prince Clay :)

Jessica totally spoiled me... Check out all my Fall Goodies

(1) Navy Blue Scarf

(2) Glade "Cashmere Wood" Candle

(3) Sleepy Time Tea

(4) Essie Nail Polish

(5) Yarn Garland made by Jessica

Jessica made me this garland and it looks great with my new Chubby Mickey & Minnie from the Hubs. :)

(6) Journal

(7) Caramel Chocolate

(8) Reusable totebag

I totally loved all my goodies! I own many scarfs but not one in navy blue... I can't wait till it cools down a little so I can wear it. I'm no longer a coffee drinker but I do love drinking teas...the Hubs and I enjoyed a cup of the "Sleepytime" tea and have now added it to our tea list. Simply delicious! Essie Mochacino nail polish, I'm totally showing my fresh mani off, the color is Perfect! I have yet to try the chocolate, caramel bar, I'm not a huge fan of chocolate, but will have a piece from time to time...saving it for a craving day. The garland is super cute very creative and I think it looks great above my Chubby Mickey & Minnie from the Hubs...and the candle is the perfect touch to make my house smell yummy.

Thanks again for all my fall goodies Jessica...It was fun getting to know you.

Can't wait till next year!

Scissor Using Hair Chopping Baby

2013-09-30T16:31:00.000-04:00

Scissors are hand-operated shearing instruments. They consist of a pair of metal blades pivoted so that the sharpened edges slide against each other when the handles opposite to the pivot are closed. Scissors are used for cutting various thin materials, such as paper, cardboard, metal foil, thin plastic, cloth, rope, and wire. Scissors can also be used to cut HAIR and food.

I as an adult know that scissors can be used to cut many things. I just can't figure out how a 4 yr old would know that she can use scissors to cut her hair? When I was a kid, I think I touched my first pair of scissors when I was like 5 or 6 and I sure enough did not know that I could my hair with it.

Well I'd like to introduce to you, my 4 year old niece who has discovered her passion for cutting hair, her own hair that is.

She chopped up all this hair a few days ago.

My Mom found the evidence in the trash bin.
And of course when we asked her who cut her hair, she said she didn't do it.

Here she is.

I asked her if the kids at school made fun of her, she said no Auntie, the kids actually liked my hair.

Now that I think of it, I believe my sister (her mom) cut her own hair when she was a kid. Like Mother/Like Daughter.

Have any of you Mommy's had your toddlers and not so toddlers become their very own barbers and/or hair stylists?
Or is my niece the only one who's chopped off their hair?

All About Me From A-Z Challenge: Letter G

2013-09-20T11:01:00.007-04:00

Here's this week's All About Me... Letter G

G is for:

Granda

My new last name... I still like my maiden name better ;)

Gingerbread House:

I've always wanted to attempt to build a gingerbread house.
I think I shall try it this year. Stay tuned.

Glitter:
I love anything and everything glitter!

Google:

I don't know about you, but I google everything. My last google search was: What size shoe does a 6 year old normally wear?

Do you remember what you used before google?

"I used to AskJeeves"

Great:

Check back in next week as the challenge continues and get to know more

All About Me with the "Letter "H".

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter A"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter B"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter C"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter D"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter E"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter F"

Getting Healthy ~ Week 4

2013-09-08T10:54:00.000-04:00

16 pounds in 4 weeks!

I'm speechless...As I look back at my chart to see where I started it's heartbreaking to see where I was, I even got a little teary-eyed. I remember telling my husband how badly I wanted to start eating healthy and working out and for whatever reason or another we always prolonged it. I promised myself that I would not allow the scale reach a certain number and when the scale was .2 ounces from reaching that number it hit me... and HARD! It feels great to have left that number so far behind. But this journey of mine does not end here...there's still another 49 pounds to go!

I leave you with another juice recipe till next week.

"Berry Tangy"

INGREDIENTS:

Kiwi

Strawberries

Oranges (peeled)

Blueberries
Blackberries
Raspberries

DIRECTIONS:

Process all ingredients in a juicer, shake or stir and serve.
I added 2 tablespoons of Chia seeds after juice was blended.

This is where I am today:

Weight Lost: 3 pounds

Total Lost:      16 pounds

Measurements:
Hips: 51"                        L Bicep: 13"                L Calf: 16"
Waist: 40"                    R Bicep: 13"                  R Calf: 16"
Neck: 14"                       L Thigh: 25"
Bust: 45"                      R Thigh: 26"

Getting Healthy~ Week 3

2013-09-01T16:44:00.000-04:00

This week I'm feeling super great! My clothes are starting to fit a little better, and I can even get into some of the clothes hidden in the bottom of my drawer, they're still a little tight, but atleast I can put them on.

Since Labor Day Weekend is around the corner and I'm having family over for a BBQ, I planned to be extra good this week so I can cheat a little on Sunday.

As we go into the new week, my body actually feels like it's been through some serious detox. I'm not feeling as bloated as I usually do, and I've also noticed that my migraines are not attacking me daily. Did I mention I was suffering from severe Migraines?

Also since I started having Chai & Flax Seeds with OJ before bed I've noticed I've been pooping alot more daily, which for me is great as I usually would only go 2-4 times a week. I know I know TMI. Sorry.

Exercise: The Hubs has made a little work out plan for us to do a few nights a week. This week we tried going up and down the stairs 10 times....that's 110 steps up and 110 steps down. Sounds exhausting, but it's doable. I was really proud of myself because I completed the 10 sets without quitting.

We didn't watch any documentaries this week, but I did pick up this TIME magazine the other day.

It has some pretty amazing articles. Here's one I really liked...

"Can Posture Change Your Mind?"Source: Time Magazine
Article by: Regina Nuzzo

Surprise: Standing tall or hunching over affects more than your appearance. To soothe an anxious mood and maybe drop a few pounds, move right this way.

The MIND-BODY CONNECTION has long been thought of as a rather simple affair. Picture it: a bossy mind orders around its servant body like an aristocrat issuing sniffy requests to a household staff downstairs. "Body, get out of bed. Arm, lift coffee mug. Mouth, we're feeling jolly. Let's have a smile." Research increasingly shows, your body downstairs has a surprising amount of influence over your mind up above.

Something as simple as your posture can affect what your brain thinks, feels and believes. Psychologists call this "embodied cognition" a term that pays homage to deep-seated wisdom hidden in our bodies. Their research is showing that how you move your muscles and where you place your limbs, head and torso all help control your mood, your behavior, and the way you think.

Postures:

Leaning In:
Makes you feel more interested in whatever you're gravitating toward. A tilt toward a tempting dessert, one study showed, is enough to light up a "gonna grab it" region of the brain.

Standing Tall:
Sparks feelings of confidence. It may make you more secure in your opinions, so you're easily less crowded.

Slouching:
Makes you feel stressed and unsure of yourself, scientists say there's a reason your mother always told you to stand up straight. Even when you do well, a hangdog posture leaves you more apt to throw in the towel.

Clutching yourself:
Signals to other people and yourself that you're low on the totem pole. Hugging yourself doesn't bring comfort; it increases stress, reduces your self-confidence, and makes you less assertive.

What is your Posture like?

This is where I am today:

Weight Lost: 3 pounds
Total Lost:     13 pounds

Measurements:
Hips: 51"                     L Bicep: 14"                L Calf: 18"
Waist: 41"                    R Bicep: 13"                  R Calf: 18"
Neck: 14"                  L Thigh: 28"
Bust: 45.5"                  R Thigh: 28"

Getting Healthy- Week 2

2013-08-25T15:00:00.000-04:00

This week was a little easier. I'm finally feeling a little more energy and I'm feeling great about being down 6 pounds!

I've continued to substitute 1-2 meals a day with either a shake or a juice. I've continued to snack throughout the day and still having my 8-10 glasses of water and I feel great!

This week we watched "Forks Over Knives" another Netflix documentary where Lee advocates how you can combat many diseases by eating a low fat plant based diet. You can read more about it HERE Yes, I'm a Netflix Junkie...I'm not sure how I ever survived without Netflix.

Over the weekend we juiced for Breakfast and Lunch since we had plans to go out for dinner. I was surprised to see that the juices and snacks had held me up throughout the day and I didn't feel hungry at all.

I love love love red meat...the Hubs keeps it out of our diet as much possible...but Kussifay has the yummiest parillada in town. Kussifay is an Argentinian Restaurant located in Downtown Hollywood. Whenever the Hubs and I get a chance to, we go there an order a parillada for 2. But this meal can probably feed up to 4 people. I only eat the skirt steakand the salad while the hubs likes to eat all the other stuff on the platter.

This week, we exercised lightly this week 3 days nothing too crazy. I've also started parking my car farther than usual. At work I park in the last spot on the other side of the building. At the supermarket or any other place we go we also park farther just to get in a little extra walking.

This is where I am today:
Weight Lost: 4 pounds

Total Weight Loss: 10 pounds

Measurements:
Hips: 51"                     L Bicep: 14.5"                L Calf: 18"
Waist: 44"                   R Bicep: 13.5"                  R Calf: 18"
Neck: 14.5"                   L Thigh: 29"
Bust: 46.5"                  R Thigh: 27"

JUICING

2013-08-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

I wanted to share with you some of the juices we've been having to substitute our meals.

First I'll share with you our groceries...

There's a little bit of everything in that pile... total costs for all you see $94.00
This should last us about 2 weeks or so.

"Fruity Punch with a Twist"

Recipe:

INGREDIENTS:

Apples - 2 medium (3" dia)

Kiwifruit - 4 fruit (2" dia)

Lemon (with rind) - 1/4 fruit (2-3/8" dia)

Lime (with rind) - 1/4 fruit (2" dia)

Oranges (peeled) - 2 fruit (2-5/8" dia)

Pineapple - 1 fruit

DIRECTIONS:
Process all ingredients in a juicer, shake or stir and serve.
I added 2 tablespoons of Chai seeds after juice was blended.

"Full of Kale-Cium"

Recipe:

INGREDIENTS:

Apple - 1 medium (3" dia)

Carrots - 3 medium

Cilantro - 1 handful

Collard Greens - 1 cup, chopped

Kale - 4 leaf (8-12")

Pepper (sweet red) - 1 medium (approx 2-3/4" long, 2-1/2 dia.)

DIRECTIONS:

Process all ingredients in a juicer, shake or stir and serve.

*Kale has a very strong taste, I had to eat an apple after drinking this juice to clear the taste afterwards.

Happy Juicing!

Getting Healthy ~ Week 1

2013-08-18T14:56:00.000-04:00

Last week I began my path to becoming healthy. It hasn't been easy, but it hasn't been impossible to do. I've started by reducing my portion sizes and adding 2-3 snacks in-between my meals, drinking 8-10 cups of water daily and exercising a few times a week.

I wake up around 6:40am every morning, I jump out of bed and get ready, prepare breakfast, clean up, pack lunch and out the door to play in traffic. Of course there are days where I hit the snooze button, later get up in a rush leaving me with no time for breakfast. Since the first week of any diet is a little stressful, the Hubs and I tried going to bed by 10pm so we're able to get enough rest and not feel so tired in the morning.

This week I thought I should try having a protein shake for breakfast just to get in the habit of having breakfast every morning. Let me tell you this has worked perfectly, even when I'm running late, I'm able to have my breakfast while I sit in traffic.

I've also started snacking. At 10:30am I have an apple, or a banana, or a 1/4 cup of almonds, or an orange, 1 cup of grapes. Since I started snacking this week, I find that I'm not as starving when lunch time comes around making me want to eat everything in sight.

Also drinking water throughout the day has kept me feeling full. By lunch time, this 33.8 fl oz bottle of water is gone.

I figure if you're supposed to drink 8 glasses of 8 oz of water daily, this bottle equals to a little over 4 glasses, so if I have 2 bottles that makes 8. And it's not stressful to see 3 empty bottles of bottles of water and think shoot I still have another 4 bottles to drink.

At lunch I usually have salads, or chicken and vegetables, some days I'll have tuna with 2 MultiGrain CrispBreads by Wasa. The Hubs say they taste like cardboard.

I'm also substituting my dinner with another shake. What ever was prepared for dinner that evening I have for lunch the next day.

Before bed time, I have a 4 oz glass of orange juice and mix 1 tablespoons of Chia & 1 tablespoon of Flax Seeds in it. Chia seeds is a great source of healthy Omega 3-fats and Fiber. Flaxseeds are also a great source of healthy Omega 3's, Fiber and Lignans. I gotta warn you...when you wake up in the morning, you'll poop like 10 lbs. TMI I know. :)
You can pick a bag of either for a few bucks at Whole Foods.

A few weeks before I started, The Hubs and I did a lot of research on healthy eating, exercising, and all kinds of healthy stuff. We came across this documentary on Netflix called "Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead". Where this guy named Joe started a juice fast for 60 days and lost 100 pounds. You can read more about it HERE In the past, the Hubs had always talked to me about juicing but we never really took it seriously and after watching this documentary we've included juicing into our meals. We substitute one or two meals with a juice, usually at dinner time. I've found a bunch of juicing recipes HERE.

I'm sure there are people like me who are very antsy and find it hard to wait to weigh in. For me weigh ins are on Sundays. There were times where I would weigh myself every 2 days, until it back fired on me. One day the number on the scale had increased and I freaked out! Thankfully when Sunday came around the number I was looking for was there.

I haven't done any exercising this week as I didn't want to push myself since I've reduced my portions and have replaced my meals with shakes or juicing.

Here's where I am today...

Weight Lost: 6 pounds

Measurements:
Hips: 53"                      L Bicep: 14.5"              L Calf: 17"
Waist: 42"                    R Bicep: 14.5"                R Calf: 18"
Neck: 14.5"                   L Thigh: 28"
Bust: 47"                       R Thigh: 30"

All About Me From A-Z Challenge: F is for "FAVORITE"

2013-08-14T15:44:00.000-04:00

Here's this week's All About Me... Letter F

these are a few of my FAVORITE people and things...

FAVORITE COLOR: Red

FAVORITE LITTLE PEOPLE: My Nieces and the Hubs little cousins

FAVORITE PERSON: The Hubs

FAVORITE FRUIT: Watermelon

FAVORITE FLOWER: Daisies

FAVORITE PLACE TO BE: Disney World

That's all I got for you this week.

What are something things with the letter F that you like or do?

Check back in next week as the challenge continues and get to know more

All About Me with the "Letter "G".

ReadAll About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter A"

ReadAll About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter B"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter C"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter D"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter E"

Getting Healthy

2013-08-12T19:00:00.000-04:00

Into my late teens I was always very thin. I'm 5'7 and the most I ever weighed was 115lbs wearing a size 0 until I turned 21. Sure, those are the years where you can eat everything and anything and your metabolism is running on overdrive and can burn every last calorie intake in your body. Those years quickly went by and before I knew it I had grown into a size 12 then with a blink of an eye into a size 22 and 100 lbs extra. If I recall correctly the increase of weight was between 2001 and 2006. A lot was going on in my life through those years and I counted on food to comfort me.

I'm one of those people who has read every health/workout book, tried about every single diet, workout video, in the market and failed. In 2006 I went to see an Endocrinologist who put me on a 1200 calorie diet, which was easy to do as I wasn't restricted to all my favorite foods. He taught me how to read my food labels, and how to eat the correct portions and included light exercise. On his program I lost 57 lbs in a little over than 8 months. Sadly, a year later I went through a small depression and gained the weight back and then some. In 2011 I went back to see him and he suggested I try the HCG diet. This diet became very popular in the last few years, where you ate 500 calories a day and the pounds would just shed away. Yea, I tried it too and lost about 40 lbs and when I later could not afford to continue the plan I put those 40 lbs back on and added another 20.

Throughout the past few years I've struggled with weight loss, my weight would come off and then right back on plus a few. I have no one else to blame but myself for putting on and keeping on the weight for all those years.

This weekend we went on our final Disney trip of the year and after reviewing our pictures, I was so disappointed at myself and decided that it was time to stop making excuses, and get with the program.

I'm in a place where my life is starting to make sense, my goals and dreams are starting to become a little more reachable, I'm happier than I've ever been, and I'm ready to take on the WORLD! Today I say my GOODBYES to my un-healthy WEIGHT, my FAT, and my BAD EATING HABITS forever! It's not going to be easy, "NOTHING GREAT IS EASY" but it's NOT impossible, plus I'm lucky to have the BEST support out there by my side, My Hubs!

This is where I am today...

Measurements:
Hips: 54"                      L Bicep: 15.5"              L Calf: 20"
Waist: 45"                     R Bicep: 15"                  R Calf: 19.5"
Neck: 16"                       L Thigh: 30"
Bust: 49"                        R Thigh: 31"

My goal weight loss: -65 pounds

August 2013

IRON MAN 3

2013-08-08T09:53:00.000-04:00

Wow! I know this post is a little late, but better late than never and I still wanted to share with you, my High of that day!

So anywho, I'm sure many of you Marvel, Tony Stark, Iron Man fans went out to see Iron Man 3, what you guys think of it?

Of all the movies, Iron Man is totally one of my favorites, and you know I couldn't miss out on the Iron Man Marathon AMC was hosting. 10 hours of Iron Man, I was definitely on a Tony Stark high.

The Marathon began with Iron Man, followed by Iron Man 2, The Avengers, and finishing with Iron Man 3. I can't say I can compare it to The Ultimate Marvel Marathon back in May of 2012. Where we sat through 6 movies, I was so exhausted that I fell asleep when The Avengers began; this time around it was a little easier and I got to enjoy all the films. And I got to wear my new cool Iron Man t-shirt the Huns got me. :)

My thoughts...I loved all the new suits...pretty cool how they all came out at the end. I also Looooveddd that Penny got to wear it for protection at the beginning.

My super cool Iron Man 3 t-shirt, compliments of the Hubs.

The Hubs went out and bought me the 3 lunch totes from Subway for my special event. And AMC gave us these cool lanyards and 3D glasses.

Did any of you watch the movie? How did you like it?

All About Me: A-Z Challenge- Letter "E"

2013-08-07T10:36:00.000-04:00

This week's letter is E...I couldn't think of many things that I do or like with the letter E.

Entertain
I love entertaining...I dream of one day owning a house with a huge dining area and yard so I can entertain my family and friends.

Eggs

I'll take my eggs scrambled with extra cheese any day everyday.

E.T.
From what I hear...
I am the ONLY person in the world that has not yet watched the movie ET.
::rolls my eyes at those who are thinking that I've been living under a rock::

My argument: As a kid I preferred to play outside in the dirt than sit in front of the tv.

That's all I got for you this week.

What are something things with the letter E that you like or do?

Check back in next week as the challenge continues and get to know more
All About Me with the "Letter "F".

ReadAll About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter A"

ReadAll About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter B"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter C"
Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter D"

All About Me: A-Z Challenge- Letter "D"

2013-07-26T15:00:00.000-04:00

Disney
If you've been following me around by now, you'd know that Disney World is one of my favorite places to be and that I visit atleast 4 times a year.

This is my Daddy!

Daisies
Daisies are my favorite flower.
Something about them just makes me happy all the time.

Dancing with the Stars
One of my favorite shows to watch is Dancing with the Stars.
It makes me want to learn ballroom dancing.

Dancing
From time to time, I like to hit the dance floor and show off my moves.

Desserts
Life would be so boring without these sugar filled loaded in extra calorie sins. These babies are my weakness. Who needs a meal, I say we just get right to dessert.

Check back in next week as the challenge continues and get to know more
All About Me with the "Letter E".

ReadAll About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter A"

ReadAll About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter B"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter C"

Happy 3rd Anniversary to My Little Ol' Space

2013-07-25T16:26:00.000-04:00

I AM BACK!!! Yea...I know...I should be sentenced to a LIFE in the absent blogger Box of Shame. I can't believe it's been a month since my last post. Go ahead, beat me up, I deserve it. My excuse is: Once You Get Married...Life Happens and time Flies when You're Having Fun! I promise you that I had scheduled a bunch of fun summer posts, just haven't had the extra time to finish them. But it's something to look forward to in the coming weeks. In the meantime I wanted to celebrate with you fine people this special day!

Today my little space is 3 years old!

This past year has been ahhhhmmaaazzzeeee balls! 132 posts, 116 new bloggy friends, 1 hubby, 40+ new family members, 4 new visits to Mickey and 2 more to go, turning 33, an extra 10 lbs, a fun-filled summer surrounded by those I love, and 1 family road trip to look forward to. That my friends is what has kept me away from you all. Waaaahhh I've missed you so much!

Now that I've rambled off about the last year...let's talk about First Blog Posts.

You know the one you posted to introduce yourself? I remember when I first started I had a million thoughts in my mind and knew exactly what I wanted to say. I mean c'mon how hard can it be to talk about yourself?

And then......when I sat in front of my screen my mind went blank_________.

I took a piece of paper and jotted down a few things about me, what I like to do, and what I want to write about and put it all together and came up with something short and sweet.

You can read my introduction first post HERE

Now it's your turn....

Tell me about your first blog post?

What helped you get all your thoughts together?

Happy First Day of Summer

2013-06-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

Today is the first day of summer although living in Miami it feels like it's summer all the time and everyone here practically wears flipflops all year long, the kids definately look forward to their time off from school to go out and play in the sun.

As I sat with my nieces over the past few weeks, and ~~sorta~~ interviewed them for this post. I asked them what were a few things they would like to do over the summer. Realistic and Affordable of course, I was afraid that one would ask me to take them to the moon. So here's what they've requested.

☀ Pool party

☀ Go to Disney World

☀ Go to the beach

☀ Go to the park

☀ Visit Samantha and Sabrina (my other 2 nieces)

☀ Bake cupcakes and cookies

☀ Go to the SpongeBob Hotel... (Nickelodeon Hotel)

☀ Get a facial, mani, pedi☀ Go to the Zoo

☀ Go to the Water Park

☀ Fly Kites

☀ Go to the Icecream store (Menchies)

☀ Have a sleepover

☀ Go to the movies
☀ Go to Jump A Roos

After their requests, I began doing some homework on some outdoor activities and putting together a spectacular pool party. Every year I have a Summer Bash for the girls, last year I took a break from it all, but this year's Bash is going out with a BAM.

Check back at the end of the summer to see what we've accomplished!

All About Me: A-Z Challenge- Letter "C"

2013-05-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

Here's this week's round of All About Me with the Letter C.

Country Music:

Country music is all that plays in my radio all day. I love Brad, Blake, Toby, Carrie, Jason, Keith, and Luke just to name a few.

Current Favorite: Jason Aldean's "She's Country"

Camping:

When we were kids, every summer my parents would take us to this campsite in Key West and we'd put up a tent and camp out there. We'd spend the weekend fishing on the 7 mile bridge, or on the beach, bbqing. We made some great childhood memories there.

Cabbage Patch Dolls:

When I was a kid maybe 7 or 8 I always wanted a Cabbage Patch doll. One day my Mom found one at a garage sale, she was filthy had no clothes or shoes, her hair was a mess, but she bought it anyway, cause it was probably all she could afford when we were growing. She brought the doll home cleaned her up sewed her an outfit and got her ready for me to get home from school. When I got home I was the happiest kid in the world. Sadly my happiness lasted a few months, my parents had to turn the family van in since they couldn't afford it anymore, and the night they took the van, I had left my doll in there. I was heart broken. 25 years later, for a mini moon trip I took with the Hubs to Georgia we visited Babyland General Hospital a.k.a Cabbage Patch Museum and after a little while of searching, there she was...the same exact doll I had when I was kid, only she was brand new in her box. She was so beautiful. The huns bought her for me, I literally had tears in my eyes. Here she is! Isn't she the prettiest?!

Carrot Cake:

Need I say more? Yumm...what I'd do to have piece of carrot cake.

Candy:

I'm not much of a candy eater, but when I do crave it these are my favorites.

- Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

- Cadbury's Caramel Egg (So sad I can only have these during Easter.)

-York Peppermint Patty
-Hershey's Candy Cane Kisses (I usually have an overload on these since they're only available during xmas time)

- Nerds

Check back in next week as the challenge continues and get to know more
All About Me with the "Letter D".

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter A"

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter B"

All About Me: A-Z Challenge- Letter "B"

2013-05-08T06:00:00.000-04:00

Last week I took the All About Me: A-Z Challenge where for the next 25 weeks,

I'll tell you all a little about me from A to Z.

This week you will learn All About Me with the "Letter B"

Bake Shop:

One of my biggest dreams, wish, goals, is to own a cute little pink and white bake shop where I can spend my days baking cute little cupcakes, cookies, and cakes.

One Day, I will have my own little shop!

Baking:

I love love love baking. After going through a million pictures to find some of the stuff I've baked, so sad to only have found these 4. I'm sure I can beg my friends for pictures of the other goodies I've made.

Butterflies:

I love anything and everything butterflies. In my many trips to Cozumel I got to visit the KeyWest Butterfly Conservatory and the Cozumel Butterfly Sanctuary Tour. Walking through their exotic gardens while the prettiest butterflies are freely flying around you makes you appreciate nature a little more.

I have yet to visit Butterfly World in Boca Raton, FL maybe one soon I'll get to see their beauties! ::hint hint::

Bucket Lists:

I think everyone should have atleast one, okay maybe two or three. I make lists for everything, and still like to write them down on paper as to where the Huns asks why do I have a notes app on my phone for. I have personal bucket lists, travel bucket lists, and am almost done with the Girl's summer bucket list.

If you have time visit My Someday List and see what I've checked off so far.

Beach:

Now that we've talked about buckets...let's talk about the beach.

Who doesn't love those nice hot sunny summer days, your feet in the sand, the waves breaking at your toes, a drink in your hand, and taking in the smell of the ocean.

Just typing this makes me want to be there.

Balloons:

Ever been to Disney World and as you walk in/out of the park there's this guy holding a gazillion balloons?

Just makes you want to take them all and fly away in the sky like in the movie UP.

How many balloons do you think he's holding?

How many do you think actually sell daily at the Disney parks?

I've yet to purchase one, yea, I know, the Mickey freak has not yet purchased a Mickey Balloon, but I just don't see myself spending $10 bucks for a balloon.

If I ever win the lottery, which will never happen as I don't play, but if I did I WOULD buy all those balloons, take a picture with them and then give them away.

There you have it.... All About Me with the Letter B.

Check back in next week as the challenge continues and get to know more
All About Me with the "Letter C".

Read All About Me: A-Z Challenge- "Letter A"

All About Me: A-Z Challenge- Letter "A"

2013-05-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I helped my niece with a homework assignment where weekly she had to draw things she likes to do, eat, play, etc. with the letter that they're learning that week.

I thought it was a pretty cool assignment and have decided to give it a twist and take a 26 week challenge where I share with you all a little bit of myself from A to Z.

Auntie.

I'm an auntie to 4 beautiful little girls!

L to R

Sabrina (8), Layla (4), Lydia (6), Samantha (11)

These little girls have taught me to really appreciate the little things in life, like riding the swing at the park or picking up tiny wild flowers. I love their expressions, creativity, the stuff they learn at school, and "the what do you mean you didn't think I knew about those things" comments. I'll never forget one day I was out with my Mom and Lydia and we were at a stop light and all of a sudden she starting singing Alicia Keys, "Girl on Fire". I'm like excuse me, where did you learn that? She replied, my friend Rhianna at school. *SMH*

Autumn:

Is my favorite Season. Something about the pretty colored leaves, is so breathtaking. I sometimes wish I lived in a state where I can enjoy the 4 seasons. I visited Virginia 2 years ago and remember driving through a road with tons of trees and pictured how beautiful it must look in the fall. Definately planning a trip back during autumn so I can experience it. How could anyone not want to live in a place that looks like this?

Accident:

I've been in 1 car accident in my entire life.

I'll never forget the day. It was October 31st, 2003.

My brother and I would always fight because he would always take my car whenever he would go out because either he was running late or was too lazy to pump gas. That night he sneaked out and took my car to meet up with his friends. Later that evening I needed to pick up something from the pharmacy and went in my brother's car. All I did was leave the house and drive down the block and BAM I ran the car into a 1980 Mambo Jambo Ford Bronco and smashed the front of my brother's car in, like when you crush a coke can. Well I hit the Bronco and the Bronco hit the car in front of him, and that car hit the car in front of it. Of course, I got the ticket, to make matters worse my brother's insurance had just expired on the 30th, and since we live in the same household my insurance wouldn't cover the accident...they suspended my license for a year, I had to use public transportation to get to places, and it took me 5 years exactly to pay that accident off. GREAT STUFF!

Alchoholic Beverage:

My favorite is: Chocolate Martinis

Strange cause I don't really like chocolate. But after having one of these babies a decade ago I fell in love! Everyone should definately try one of these in their lifetime. And if you want to get crazy, go ahead an order a White Chocolate Martini you won't regret it!

Apps:

My top 5 most used Apps on my iphone are?

Messages, Mail, Instagram, Words with Friends, and Shazam

And that folks...is the All About Me post with the "Letter A"

Check back in next week as the challenge continues and get to know more All About Me with the "Letter B".

Hugs!

My Weekend Shenanigans

2013-04-29T05:00:00.000-04:00

Linking up with Sami for this Weekend's Shenanigans...

I was really excited for this weekend to begin, this was the first time my nieces were sleeping over with me since I got hitched. Friday, just couldn't get here quick enough. Friday afternoon my sister dropped off my nieces at my office, and I was thrilled to see them. I ~~introduced them~~ ok showed them off to all my co-workers, because they are the cutest little girls in the world. Then I cleaned up my office and took off to get our weekend started.

When I got home they hugged their Uncle Ron, and just hung out on the couch

while I prepared something for them to eat. Then they both grabbed an Ipad and played their little fingers away.

1- Layla watching Uncle Ron play Wreck It Ralph

2- Layla teaching Uncle Ron what to do

3- Observing what he's learned.

After dinner we went to the grocery store to pick up some stuff for Saturday's BBQ. Then I gave the girl's mani/pedi's while Uncle Ron built them a

cool tent out of bed sheets so they could sleep under.

While the girls hid out under their tent, I caught up on some current events that the Huns recorded for me while at work. Donnie Wahlberg talks on the Attack in Boston.

Saturday morning, I attempted to make Mickey Pancakes,

with a Mickey pan my sister gifted me.
But I guess I put the stove on too high and the paint on the bottom of the pan started burning so I gave up and handed the stove to the Huns.

After breakfast I got the girls ready and we went to watch my Hunny's little cousin's Karate meet, where the 3 of them ranked up to Yellow Belts!

The oldest received a trophy for her great performance and for making no mistakes.
Those little girls will kick your butt!

Then we were off to celebrate with a BBQ and some Pool time with the Family!

Sunday was Spring Cleaning Day at the Granda's.
Got the Huns out of bed nice and early.

Finished a few little projects that were on our to-do list and

finally finished the last load of laundry at midnight!

I say overall it was a SUCCESSFUL weekend!

This weekend is going to be amazing, at least for me.
Iron Man 3 is coming out this weekend....and I'm super ready for their Marathon

and to wear my new Iron Man shirt.

Spending the weekend on Ft. Lauderdale beach getting some much needed R&R!

Tell you all about it next week!

What exciting stuff did you do this weekend?

Libby's Flowers

2013-04-28T12:00:00.000-04:00

I think Flowers are one of God's many beautiful creations.
It's amazing how they all differ in sizes, styles, scents, and colors.

My favorite flower are the daisies!

Something about them make them so free and friendly.
I've even purchased the supplies to plant my own garden of daisies, stay tuned for that post.

Below is a picture of the most recent Daisies the Huns got me.

After the company I work for, moved office locations, there's a nice little man that comes weekly selling roses. Those roses are one of the prettiest roses I've ever owned. The colors are amazing and they open so big and pretty and have lasted over 3 weeks.

Here are some of the ones I've purchased since we've moved here.

Did you know that there are over 100 species of roses?

Roses vary in size and shape and are usually large and showy, in colours ranging from white through yellows and reds. Most species are native to Asia, with smaller numbers native to Europe, North America, and northwest Africa. They are all widely grown for their beauty and often are fragrant. Rose plants range in size from compact, miniature roses, to climbers that can reach 7 meters in height.

What's your favorite flower?

Pain & Gain

2013-04-27T17:00:00.000-04:00

Last week I scored Free Advanced Screening passes to see Pain & Gain. I had no idea what the movie was about, all I knew I was going to enjoy double eye candy and a little bit of drooling for a few hours. Good thing the Huns is not jealous!

This action comedy movie is based on a true-story on a crime that was committed in South Florida back in the 90's...where I was probably too young to even remember or realize what was going on.

Movie begins where Mark Wahlberg is a trainer at a South Florida gym and believes that there's nothing better that having the perfect physical muscular body... (drooling over here) but later realizes that doesn't get him paid. He attends a motivational seminar where his motto is now to become a DOER and not a DON'T-ER. He puts together a scheme to kidnap one of his wealthy clients and drags Dwayne Johnson, and Anthony Mackey along with him. Their plan seemed simple, you know, kidnap the victim, get him to sign over his fortune, and then let him free. Sadly, their first attempt didn't go as planned and their attempt to kill him later was just as unsuccessful. This movie will surely have you laughing.

I won't spoil it anymore for you; just GO watch it!

If you like action and comedy and want something funny to watch this weekend, then you should definitely see this one.

Watch the trailer below:

Spring Sweets Swap ::REVEAL::

2013-04-26T06:00:00.000-04:00

I recently joined Casey and Shellsea for a Spring Sweets Blog Swap. I was partnered up with Heather over at "My Gurlee Girrl World" and let me tell you I had a blast getting to know her. She's a Nail polish addict, you should definitely check out her nail creativity when you get a chance, she's very talented! She loves Elvis, plays Bingo, and loves my favorite boyband... Yes, The NKOTB! I mean why wouldn't anyone love those guys!

Anywho, my package was definitely filled with lots of sweet goodies!

1- Starburst Candy

2- Gummie Bears

3- Extra Gum - Dessert Delights

4- Hershey's Chocolate Bar

5- HoneyMaid Grahamfuls

6- Raspberry M&M's

7-Mint Apple Nail Polish

8-Glittery Pink Nail File

9- Earrings

10- Blue blag

11- Palm tree stirrer sticks

Thank you Heather for all my goodies!

I've already gotten my mani/pedi done...I love love the color. It's so Springy! :)

The Huns has attacked the Starbursts candy...and I'm definitely going to put in good use all the other goodies for our Iron Man Marathon next week. :)

Also a BIG Thank You to Shellsea and Casey for putting together this Swap and Congrats on another Successful year on your Spring Swap! Can't wait for next years!

Make sure you stop by Heather's and check out the goodies she received!

My Life as Mrs. G.

Football Season is BACK!!!

Paint Nite

One Year of Marriage Bliss

Falling into Fall Swap {REVEAL}

Scissor Using Hair Chopping Baby

All About Me From A-Z Challenge: Letter G

Getting Healthy ~ Week 4

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:Process all ingredients in a juicer, shake or stir and serve. I added 2 tablespoons of Chia seeds after juice was blended.

Getting Healthy~ Week 3

Getting Healthy- Week 2

JUICING

Recipe:

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:Process all ingredients in a juicer, shake or stir and serve. I added 2 tablespoons of Chai seeds after juice was blended.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Getting Healthy ~ Week 1

All About Me From A-Z Challenge: F is for "FAVORITE"

Getting Healthy

IRON MAN 3

All About Me: A-Z Challenge- Letter "E"

All About Me: A-Z Challenge- Letter "D"

Happy 3rd Anniversary to My Little Ol' Space

Happy First Day of Summer

All About Me: A-Z Challenge- Letter "C"

All About Me: A-Z Challenge- Letter "B"

All About Me: A-Z Challenge- Letter "A"

My Weekend Shenanigans

Libby's Flowers

Pain & Gain

Spring Sweets Swap ::REVEAL::

DIRECTIONS:

Process all ingredients in a juicer, shake or stir and serve.
I added 2 tablespoons of Chia seeds after juice was blended.

DIRECTIONS:
Process all ingredients in a juicer, shake or stir and serve.
I added 2 tablespoons of Chai seeds after juice was blended.