Shelley's incoherent ramblings....

3 years...so long and yet it has gone by so fast.

2010-05-03T13:18:00.002-04:00

I know. It's been a while. Not shockingly, my life has become a lot about baseball and not a lot about anything else.

Tomorrow...is a day that for the past few years, three to be exact...is one of my least favorite. Tomorrow is the 3 year anniversary of my mom passing away. It's hard to contemplate that it's been 3 years....and that I've somehow figured out how to function in a world without my mom. I don't like it...but I'm a survivor, so I keep on, keeping on.

And let me tell you...having the anniversary of your mother's death the week before Mother's Day. Well, let's just say it's kind of mean. Seeing all the ads on tv, on the internet, in the stores, etc....just seems to be rubbing salt in the wound.

However, I don't like to let myself be in pity party land...at least not for long. I choose to remember my mom, his spirit and her amazing life...and not that she is no longer here. Tomorrow will suck. No doubt. The good side...is that tomorrow is an incredibly busy day for me, so I can just put my head down...and get through.

Still. Miss her. More than words can convey. Will smile and think of her often tomorrow.

My Report on Giving Up Everything for Lent

2010-04-08T10:26:00.000-04:00

Easter was the previous Sunday and the 6 weeks prior to that...was Lent. I always give up things for Lent and this year was no different. Here is the lovely run down on the million and a half things that Shelley gave up for Lent. Be warned...it's a long entry. Of course...no one is requiring you to read it. *winks*

Pizza: This is always the staple thing I give up for Lent. Pizza is my nemesis...with it's warm, cheesy goodness. I swear, I could eat pizza for breakfast, lunch and dinner every single day and never get sick of it. I kid you not. I used to always give up pizza for Lent as some kind of kick start to whatever diet I was working on at the time. For decades, I don't think I ever went close to 40 days without eating a slice or many slices of pizzas. Nowadays, it's less about that and more just about tradition. Of course, all the pizza places are having these $10 pizza specials...just to taunt. However, I am happy to report I was not even tempted to eat some pizza. Lent came and went..and I am still quite pizza free. I am sure I'll eat pizza again...but have no intense craving desire to do so.

Candy: This one...let's be honest...is all about the Cadbury Mini Eggs. Lent is the 6 weeks prior to Easter. This is also the same exact time that all the stores have their shelves stocked FULL of Easter candy. The day after Valentine's Day...the shelves are suddenly full of Peeps and jelly beans and yes..the Cadbury Mini Eggs. I love those suckers. I have not found a candy to date that can challenge the mini eggs on their smooth, chocolately goodness. They are THE AWESOME. So, if I don't give up candy for Lent...I'll spend a lot of time and calories from Feb 15th until whenever Easter happens to fall eating those mini eggs. I do buy a bag of them prior to Easter...hide them...and then proceed to enjoy them at my leisure sometime after Easter. One bag...doesn't break the calorie bank....many many bags..yeah, when that happens I suddenly no longer can fit into my pants. Just sayin... And I am happy to report that I didn't have a lick of candy this Lent. I did buy a bunch of discounted Easter candy on the Monday afterwards...but, I haven't eaten it yet. It's just sitting there...LOOKING AT ME.

That is usually it for me and Lent. However, this year I went a little Lent crazy. So...as time went on, I kept adding to the list of things I was giving up for Lent. Here is the rest.

Soda: I only drink diet soda. However, it's still not healthy. I find that if I am drinking soda...I drink less water. I used to drink one can a day...with dinner. I noticed, I was drinking more than that. I was having one with my lunch, one with dinner and often one after dinner. Crisis? No, but I didn't like it. Plus, soda is flippin expensive...and water...is free. So, for Lent...no soda...nada. The only beverage I was drinking was water. I had one day that was dragging tired and would have liked to have a soda, but all in all...very easy. I still think I am going to continue only having a soda on a rare occasion...like one a week, if that.

Fast Food: I rarely eat fast food anyways. I think it's been years since I have been in a McDonald's or a Taco Bell. I do though...eat at places like Subway. It's healthy, but it's still expensive fast food. I wanted the food I ate to be food I made at home. So, no fast food for me.

Bread and Bread-like Substances: This one was new for me. This one stemmed off my kind of cheats off the pizza give up in previous years. If I was giving up pizza...I would just replace it with something else. I would have breadsticks. Umm, that's just deconstructed pizza. However, my mind could justify...it's not pizza. I also...I was trying to kick a few pounds to the curb before Opening Day...so, I was going more low carb. Easy way to do that...no bread like things. No cookies, no bread, no tortillas, no chips, etc. You get the point. When Girl Scout cookies showed up on the scene....yeah, I was cursing this one, but within a few days...I was thankful for it. It's much easier to say no to the cookie pushers (at work mainly) when you can say you gave it up for Lent. Pulling the God card gets their food pushing tendencies to back off pretty quickly. The hardest was the night I went out to dinner at a Mexican food restaurant with two friends. Try getting a meal at an authentic Mexican restaurant...being a vegetarian and not eat tortillas or corn chips, etc. I did it though. I had a nice salad with salsa on top. So, go me!

Resentments: This one. My pastor has always said that Lent should not be about helping your diet...or getting you to lose some weight. She has said that all these things people give up for Lent is really using God. Let's be real...she's right. My example above just proves that. She has talked for the past few years about how Lent is about looking at yourself and your relationship with God. I agree with her. So, I do admit that I use God for dieting and health purposes...no doubt, but I also like to have something that fulfills the meaning of Lent. So, I gave up holding resentments. They aren't healthy and they aren't good for me. If I feel hurt by someone or feel they wronged me...being resentful about it, just continues to hurt me. If I can just let it go and move on, I am much more at peace a human being. It doesn't mean that I can't have emotions about things...it just means I deal with them and let them go. I can still choose to not have someone and their destructive behavior in my life, but if I hold onto resentments...then aren't I in essence keeping that person in my life? This ne...has PAID dividends for me. I'm a happier, more at peace person. I am also better at seeing the good in people...not judging people...forgiving people...and being the best version of Shelley I can be. If I hold onto resentments...no matter how big or small, I become a bitter, vengeful mean person. That is not who I am. I can remember years ago...having a falling out with a friend and I held anger and resentment for years. Being able to let it go...was the healthiest thing I ever did. I was able to grow and realize how beautiful that friendship was...even if it was strained at the time. That...is who I want Shelley to be.

So...there is my Lent report. I am always grateful I participate in Lent. I learn things about myself...and I also cement some really nice habits. And, thanks to my pastor...it's not just about diet and health.

Happy Easter and Happy Opening Day!!

2010-04-04T12:18:00.004-04:00

Hello world...well, isn't there a lot to celebrate today. It's Easter...and it's the first game of the 2010 Baseball Season...Red Sox...verses....Yankees.

Easter, ahh...I hate to break it to you, but well...I am pretty sure I am more excited about Opening Day or rather Opening Night this year. No offense Jesus, but well...there is Fenway Park, there is a mound, Joshie Beckett is on it. I can't contain my excitement...as I sit here in my Beckett Sox t-shirt.

All kidding aside...church was really cool this morning. Of course, church on Easter always is full of tons of people that never come to church any other time. They make their two visits a year...Easter and Christmas. For years, I never went on Easter...I got all wrapped up in the hypocrisy of it all. But, a couple of years ago...I went and realized I was missing out on a really beautiful service. Plus, I adoringly LOVE my church community...so spending the morning with them was really nice. It felt right and peaceful. Our pastor did a great activity during her sermon. In the community where my church is...there have been 4 deaths of teenagers in the past year. It's just been heartbreaking and devastating. So, she created an allegory that shared the sacrifice of Jesus, but instead putting it in a high school classroom. She had the teacher hand out donuts to each student...but before they could have the donut, a designated "troubled" student had to do 10 pushups. The student did the pushups whether or not the person accepted the donut....that gift was there for the taking at any time. I thought it was such a beautiful image of the unconditional love of Jesus.

And here is my Easter Basket of candy...I probably will not eat. And of course, it is slightly Sox related, as is most everything in my life.

And that brings us to BASEBALL. I cannot express how excited I am for Opening Day...and against the Yankees no less. I wish I could be there in person, but watching it on TV will have to do. Someday I'll make it to the park for Opening Day, but I can't really complain since I will at the park on Tuesday for Game 2.

OPENING DAY. Josh Beckett vs. CC Sabathia. It's gonna be LEGEN....wait for it...DARY! The game starts at 8:05pm...and the minutes are just inching along. Me want baseball. Me want it NOW.

And God...I know I might have said I am prioritizing Josh Beckett over your one and only son...the Jesus, but umm...if you don't mind, I would greatly appreciate the weather report to continue to say NO RAIN in Boston on Tuesday. Thanks in advance.

Does everyone hate bra shopping as much as I do?

2010-04-02T17:50:00.004-04:00

This week...I went shopping for new bras. Anytime this gets mentioned around anyone who is male...they always ooh and ahh like it is the sexiest thing ever. Let me tell you, it's not. AT ALL. It's one of my least favorite things to go. I hate every single second of it. Ugh. If I could pay someone else to do it for me, I would...but myself and my breasts kind of have to be there in order to get it done.

First, I don't like shopping in general. I am a cheap cheap bastard and I don't like parting with my money. Plus, the idea of looking through things and trying clothes on, etc...drive me batty. When I do go shopping, it's such a chore. I have a list...a plan...I go and GET IT DONE.

Bra shopping. The worst. But it had to be done. My current bras were just not cutting it. They were beat up and ragged. So, I headed up to the local outlets...and gave it a shot. I hoped they wouldn't be too badly priced and I could get a couple of new ones.

I was lucky...and found one that fit perfectly...and that never happens for me. So, instead of annoying myself trying on other bras, I was a smart cookie and just bought one in white, beige and black. There. Done. Easy. They weren't too badly priced...you know...for the over priced bras. They were originally like $45 a piece (you flippin' kidding me?), but since it was an outlet...they were marked $22. And..if you bought 3 of them...you got $15 off...so the bra was $17 a piece. Not too shabby.

And here is the thing that happens every single time I buy bras. I always wait to buy a new one until the old ones are in bad bad shape. I try on the new ones...all set to go. And then you have to put on your old bra to go home....and then it happens. Wearing a new, nice, actually fits bra...and then putting on my old, ratty, beat up bra...just reminds me of how badly I have needed them. The bra I was wearing seemed old, but perfectly fine earlier in the afternoon...and now that I've been in a new one that fits...my old bra is completely unacceptable. I always chuckle about it...and then remember that this happens every single time.

But seriously. Hate bra shopping. And trust me...it's SO NOT SEXY. Glad I got it out of the way...and knowing me, I won't do it again until these bras are literally falling apart.

To Be Sick or Not Be Sick, That Is The Question

2010-03-26T18:55:00.002-04:00

Since about Tuesday, I've been trying to figure out if I am coming down with a cold or not. I woke up on Wednesday at my usual 4:30am and decided not to go to my cardio class since I just felt exhausted. I figured that maybe I am coming down with a cold...my throat hurt a tiny little bit. I went back to bed, got up at 6am and then went to work. On Thursday, I didn't feel any worse...I had the day off work and felt ok, but not fantastic or anything. I went to the gym...worked out for an hour on the elliptical and I felt fine after the workout. However, my throat still hurts a little bit...just feels like it takes more effort to swallow.

I woke up this morning again at 4:30am...and felt exhausted...plus it was frick freaking cold outside, so I skipped cardio class again. My throat still hurt and my nose was running a little bit, but not stuffy at all...and nothing severe. I went to work...felt fine, except for the little sore throat. After work, I went to the gym and worked out again for another hour on the elliptical. I felt great when I was working out....I had tons of energy.

So...I just wish my body would decide if I am sick or not...and let me know. Pfft! And nope, I don't have allergies at all. I think I'll just try and get some extra sleep tonight and hope that I wake up all bright eyes and bushy tailed when I get up tomorrow...with no sore throat.

Stupid body. Figure it out and then let me know, mkay?

Stupid vampire movies...

2010-03-25T20:53:00.002-04:00

I often visit some of my favorite blogs daily...swinging through and seeing what new nuggets of info they might have for me. If they haven't updated in a few days...I get all annoyed and inpatient. While at the same time...I can easily go a week, if not longer without updating my blog. Ahh....

I had the day off work today. For not much of a reason at all. At work, we don't get overtime if we work over our allotted hours, we get comp time...but we can't accrue too much of it. Mine was getting up there...so I had to take some time. Today seemed like a good day.

Productive things I did today...

1. Went to the gym and rocked the elliptical for an hour.

2. Cleaned the kitty litter box...and this time, I didn't smash my finger in the door.

3. Organized some clothes in my closet...and found some clothes I forgot I had. Probably haven't even looked at them in years. They fit, which is awesome.

4. Bought some Red Sox tickets.

5. Got paid and immediately paid my bills...and have no money left over.

And on to non-productive things...Blockbuster sent me the silly Twilight New Moon movie. Yes, they sent it to me because I placed it on my Queue. I am not a fan of the first movie...and think they are dorky and way over-hyped, however...I still planned on watching it. I figured that everyone would want it, so I probably wouldn't get the movie until a few months after it was released, but nope...Blockbuster sent it to me this week.

So, since they sent it to me and all...and I can't get a new movie until I watch the movies they sent me, I sat down and watched it this afternoon.

Cliff Notes. The second movie is sillier than the first. I kept thinking how juvenile some things were, but then I also kept reminding myself that they are made for teenagers. And...the scene were Edward is breaking up with Bella and leaving her in the woods...that scene was totally stolen from Harry and the Hendersons. Just sayin...

Team Jakob? Team Edward? How about Team Rent Lost Boys if You Wanna See a Kick Arse Vampire Movie...

Wal-Mart aka Devil-Mart almost got me back!

2010-03-19T09:46:00.002-04:00

Happy Friday folks!

One of my many New Year's Commitments in 2010 was that I was giving up going to the Wal-Mart. It hasn't been easy...but I am happy to report that I have not purchased anything at the Wal-Mart since December of 2009. I also haven't stepped foot inside the house of evil...even though I can go there, just not purchase any goods from them.

Why all the hate for Wal-Mart??? Well..it's nothing new for me. I've always felt their policies towards the community and their policies were well...piss poor. I also think that having a Wal-Mart in the community hurts local, small businesses. Now, I don't think Wal-Mart is suffering too much from my lost business, but it's a step. I have spent a lot of hot air talking about what a horrible corporation they are...while at the same time going to the establishment on a weekly basis to get whatever I needed for the week. So, really...my New Year's Commitment was more about me being less of a hypocrite than about being about Wal-Mart.

Anyhoo...as my subject says...Wal-Mart almost wooed me back this week. My car needed an oil change...and I had a headlight out. My car can be a pain in the arse to change the headlights. One, the panel you have to remove...is always more persnickety than it needs to be. And two, the brackets that hold the lightbulbs in place are almost broken, so one false move and they will break completely.

Last time I had a headlight out, I bought them at the local auto parts store and the employee was able to put them in for me. So, awesome...I went there and asked the price and if they could install them for me. The woman working there...said, no...that is was their policy to not install them for people. She seemed shocked that someone did it for me last time. So, I didn't buy the bulbs there...I am still a diva and wanted to find some place where they would put them in for me. Serve me dammit!!!

I noticed the headlight was out on Monday....and I have plans to be out of town and on the road this weekend, so I didn't wanna wait on it. Plus, Wednesday was St. Patrick's Day...so the idea of giving every cop in the tri-county area a reason to pull me over while they were looking for drunks...seemed like a bad idea.

Since I needed an oil change anyways....and I knew that Wal-Mart would install the bulbs if I bought them from them. I begrudgingly thought..."Oh well, I didn't shop at Wal-Mart for 3 months...but I guess I'll go back there." I had planned on going to Devil-Mart after work on Tuesday and getting both things done.

I came into work on Wednesday...and had a flash of genius. I called around to the local all service shops...and low and behold, Wal-Mart isn't the only game in town. I made an appt that afternoon to go to Meineke and get all my needs taken care of...oil change...headlights...installed.

Awesome. Wal-Mart...you big bad evil...you tried, but you did not beat my spirit into submission.

Happy Belated St. Patty's Day!

2010-03-18T12:52:00.003-04:00

Yes, I know...yesterday was the Irish holiday and all...but a day late and a dollar short, Happy St. Patrick's Day anyways. I always love this holiday...not because it is an excuse for drunken debauchery, but because I am a red headed, pale faced Irish kid, so it just feels like my holiday.

What did I do for St. Patty's Day?? Well...I wore a cute little shamrock shirt to work. And...in a very non-Irish way went out to eat at a Mexican food restaurant.

Two of my friends had birthdays this week, so we went out for dinner to celebrate their being brought into the world. The restaurant is a good one...it's a real, authentic Mexican restaurant...not one of those generic americanized mexican restaurants. We've been there a few times...and always got a good meal and a good time.

I wasn't sure what I was going to eat there. I actually considered just not ordering anything and just hanging out with them. I did check out a menu we had from the restaurant at work. Being a vegetarian...who also gave up all bread like substances for Lent (I know...my list of things I am giving up for Lent grows every single day)...I didn't know if the mexican restaurant would be very diet friendly to Shelley. I took a quick look. At first, it didn't look good. But upon looking again, they had a nice, appetizer salad. The salad was supposed to have chicken on it, but I could easily get it sans chicken. So, I decided on that. I ordered the salad...it came with lettuce, veggies and some avocado. I also asked for no dressing...and just put some of the salsa on for dressing. The salsa was hot hot hot...so you couldn't eat a lot of it even if you wanted to.

We had a nice time at dinner. My friends...well, they don't mind the big deal being made about their birthdays...you know...the singing, the dancing, the banging of pots, etc. They eat that stuff up. So, I let the manager know (who might be one of the nicest human beings on the planet) that it was their birthday. They came out and sang happy birthday...AND...they also brought out huge sombreros for the ladies to wear. Oh...and ice cream. Sombreros. You heard me. My friend was disappointed they didn't sing Happy Birthday en espanol so I sang a verse of Feliz Cumpleanos to her...since it was for HER birthday and all.

It was adorable though...and we had a very nice time. The manager also offered us a free shot of tequila before we left. I said no...of course...but it was very nice of him. I'll definitely eat there again and recommend it to anyone who wants a good, real Mexican meal.

Cheating on Lent in my Dreams

2010-03-13T20:58:00.003-05:00

This year...like I've done many years in the past...at least the last 5 years, I've given up pizza and candy for Lent. It initially started as a good additional to whatever weight loss strategy I had going on and now it is basically just for tradition.

What's been interesting...is that not only once, but twice I've had dreams about the food I've given up for Lent. Actually, they were both about candy. First one, I ended up eating a mini candy bar...and didn't think twice about it. Then, I realized it was candy and I was giving it up for Lent...and immediately felt so horrible and plagued with guilt. I woke up with a phew feeling...knowing it was only a dream and I am not a big ol' Lent cheater.

Then last week...I had the "I cheated on Lent" dream take two. This time, I dreamt that I was hanging out in the living room...and suddenly candy was everywhere. There was a weird Christmas tree like tree in the living room and it was almost toppled over...filled with so much candy. I started eating the candy...piece after piece after piece. I can remember being so full of candy, I thought I was gonna burst.

I woke up...and just shook my head. Another candy dream. Sheesh.

I think that's a sign that it's a good thing that I gave up the candy for Lent. If not, I might be a bit of trouble...and probably a little heavier. Snickers. (pun intended)

#BoobieWed and a kick ass kid who says "I ♥ boobies"

2010-03-11T08:49:00.004-05:00

Look at me...I might be actually writing in my blog again. Who would have thought?

Today's topic...is some let's call it alternative or different ways of promoting Breast Cancer Awareness.

First one is something that is done on Twitter. It's called Boobie Wednesday. Many women...and even some men...on the twitter change their profile picture to a picture of breasts on Wednesday. The point...is to bring up the issue of Breast Cancer Awareness and early detection. It's been going on...actually, I don't know how long, but it's at least been a couple of months.

Last night, there got to be a little spat on my twitter feed of those who support and many participate in Boobie Wed and those who think it is inappropriate and that awareness about cancer should be done in a different way.

I can see many of their points of view....since not everyone wants to see pics of women in their bras on their twitter feed all day on Wednesday. And almost everyone (except one person aka King of Obnoxious...with a dash of hypocrit)...expressed their opinion with intelligence and respect. Some people expressed they thought it was less about the cause and more about attention seeking and self-expression.

And then there is a local story which has very similar tones. There is a kid at a school not far from me...where a 15 year old freshman was wearing one of the black, "I heart boobies" bracelets to school. The bracelets are sold by the organization, Keep-a-breast.org which is an anti-breast cancer group aimed at teenagers and young people. It's goal is to raise awareness and money in order to combat the disease. He has a great aunt who has breast cancer, so he bought the bracelet for her. He wore it to Science class...the teacher saw it, took offense to it and said that he had to take it off. He said he didn't want to take it off, but he would turn it inside out so that the saying was not visible to her. Not good enough...so she sent him out of the classroom and gave him detention. It made the local news...and since then, there has been a lot of discussion about it.

My take on both of these situations. I think anything that brings attention to the cause of Breast Cancer Awareness...or cancer of any kind, I support. I have participated in Boobie Wednesday for the past few weeks and each and every Wednesday, I end up having a discussion with someone about breast cancer and prevention. That's the point...in my opinion.

The first week, I posted a pic of my breasts...with a bra on. And yeah, I immediately felt uncomfortable. It didn't stay up very long. To me (and this is only my opinion), I felt like I wasn't sure if the pic was more about me or the cause. Now, I know some people probably post the boobies pics to promote themselves and get attention, but that is a HUGE MINORITY...at least of the people on my twitter feed. It's about the issue. This week, I decided to still participate, but instead I posted a pic that I snagged from a Breast Cancer Awareness site. It was a pic of someone else's breasts...and the pink ribbon in the middle. That to me...felt much much better.

And as for the local kid. Good for him. How many 15 year olds do we know who not only support a cause, but are willing to stand up for themselves and the cause when they face some resistance??? Not all that many that I know of. And...as a result in my community people are talking about breast cancer. All because of this kid and his controversial boobie loving bracelet. In my local newspaper there is an article about the event and in the online version there are 132 comments on the article.

If it isn't your cup of tea...well, the ignore button is real easy to use. I know many people on twitter who turned off their yesterday because they didn't want to see pics of women in their bras. However, they still heard the message. That teacher...she could have been a grown up and accepted the student turning his bracelet inside out, so that it was no longer visible to her. However, in both cases...the issue is out there. Words sometime..they are cheap. They are real easy to ignore or to completely miss. However, campaigns like this...well...just the past two examples, they work.

P.S. For any women reading this...wait...men too...because men DO get breast cancer. anyways...think back to the last time you did a breast self exam...if it was more than a month ago. You are overdue. If you are unsure how to do an exam correctly, this link should help you out.

Who ate my ^&%^&%^ yogurt?!?!?!

2010-03-09T21:05:00.002-05:00

I know...2 posts from me in one day.....I'm shocked too!

Everyday for lunch, I eat exactly the same thing...a small garden salad and a light yogurt. Sometimes a little granola or maybe frozen fruit. Every. Single. Day. I never eat anything different....I never order out....I never grab fast food. I do that two reasons. One, it's healthier....I know what I am eating and it is just enough food to get me until about 3pm when I eat again. Two, it's crazy cheap. There are some people I work with who eat out for lunch almost everyday, if not every single day. My lunch costs a little over a dollar a day...while they spend $20-30 on lunch each week, if not more. I'm not only trying to be healthy....but I am also what you would call cheap.

So, back to my yogurt...I packed my lunch this morning and had everything in it. I had my protein shakes, my salad, my yogurt and my bottle of water. All set. I get to work...and put my lunch in the fridge and get on with my work for the day.

At lunch time...I head to the fridge and go to get my salad and yogurt. I grab my salad...and...ummm...there is no yogurt in the fridge. What? No yogurt?? Where is my yogurt? I KNOW I packed it this morning and put it in my lunch bag. I can see myself doing it.

What is my first thought..."who eat my yogurt??" Which was immediately replaced by "Who STOLE my yogurt?" I thought of possible candidates...and tried to imagine that they ate my yogurt by MISTAKE...and not because they are thieving bastards.

I went to the possible candidates...and said the following statement, "Hey, did you happen to eat my apple yogurt by mistake? It's not in the fridge." Translation: "Did you STEAL my mother truckin' yogurt?" They all said no.

I became obsessed with my yogurt. I couldn't imagine where it could have gone. I ate my salad...and yes, continued to think about my yogurt.

Then, I had a flash of brilliance....and grabbed my keys. I headed out to my car...and low and behold, my yogurt is sitting on the passenger side seat in my car. I went back into work...and laughed at how I had recovered my STOLEN yogurt.

And yes...Officially...no one stole my yogurt. Case closed. But...if you did steal my yogurt, no doubt...I would have interrogated you Jack Bauer style...until you cracked. Just know this.

If I could be any zoo animal???

2010-03-09T18:37:00.004-05:00

So, in my last entry...I said if you had any question...I would answer it. Steve is the only one who had a question...and his question was:

If you could be any type of zoo animal, what would you be, and why?

Hmm. That's actually a more difficult question to answer for me....since I am actually quite anti-zoos. I don't like the way the treat the animals...and while I think it is important and valuable for people to see animals up close and personal, at what expense. I could go all political...and talk about the Sea World whale, but well...that wasn't the question asked.

I know I wouldn't want to be one of the animals that has to do shows... At first, I thought lion...since every time I've seen a lion, they look happy and content...walking around...yawning...eating and just being the king of their domain.

However....while being a lion might be fun, it's not the animal I am picking. I pick penguin. I think the last time I saw a penguin was at Sea World. They had a whole world chuck full of penguins. One, those penguins just look happy...swimming around in their little cold man made world. Two, they don't have to interact with the humans...we just watch them behind the glass...and ooh and ahh at how cute they are. And three...they mate for life, so I can spend my time finding another awesomesauce penguin and rocking it out in the zoo.

So...there ya go. I'd be a happy penguin.

Any other questions...don't hesitate to ask. And this time, I'll answer before a couple weeks go by.

You ask, I answer!

2010-02-23T21:27:00.002-05:00

So, I was going to write a blog entry tonight...but didn't feel like I had anything of consequence to say. I blame both Facebook and Twitter. When I have little silly things to say...I post them there. So, I feel like it has to be of more substance to post an actual blog.

So...I don't know who even reads this thing...but if you read. Ask me any questions or topics and I will write about them. you know you wanna.....ASK AWAY.

The little things...well...one...IT'S SNOWING! The weather man...person...no wait, he is actually male...the weatherman says that we could get up to a foot of snow. If you know me...you know...I like snow...and we have barely gotten any this winter, so it's ABOUT TIME.

And...I also got my belated Christmas gift in the mail today. It's a kick arse camera. My old camera was a nice one...it was a Kodak...12X zoom and had some nice features, however it was getting a little old and every once in a while it would just shut off for no reason. So, I decided to get a new one...and went out a researching. I like Kodak cameras...and saw they had a new digital one out that had 24X Zoom. (Just imagine how much more up close and personal I can get with my picture stalking of baseball players at Fenway this year...winks).

It's a Kodak EasyShare Z980. It's got lots of bells and whistles...that I need to figure out. It also came with an 8G memory card...so I can't wait to start filling it up. I got it for a STEAL off ebay....and I am always looking for a cheap deal.

Arguing...with myself on the way home form work.

2010-02-17T19:00:00.003-05:00

Yep, that's right. I was having an argument with myself...on the way home from work.

Wait...let me back up and start with the beginning of my day. I had my alarm set for 4:30am...so I could make it to my morning cardio step class. The alarm went off...and I was tired. I mean TIRED....EXHAUSTED. it felt like I had only been asleep for a few minutes...literally. I hit snooze...and it went off again. I got up, started to get my workout clothes together...and get ready to go.

TIRED. My body was just exhausted. All my limbs felt heavy. So, I decided to listen to said body...reset the alarm for 6am and went back to bed.

I got to work...and had a hectic, busy day. I got outta work...had my workout clothes in the car and headed on my way. I had planned on going to the gym after work since I wanted to get my workout in.

Here is how the conversation went in my head as I was driving home...

Good Shelley: Got out of work a half hour late, but I still have time for a workout before dinner.

Bad Shelley: I'm tired. Today has been stressful. I just wanna go home.

Good Shelley: Working out will help. I didn't go this morning. I should go. I'll feel better afterwards.

Bad Shelley: But I'm hungry...and missing a workout won't kill me. WAAAA!

Good Shelley: Just had a protein shake...suck it up. I brought my workout clothes for a reason. Go to the gym.

(passed the first road that heads to the gym...did not turn).

Bad Shelley: But I gave my hair tie to a client who needed it. I won't be able to put my hair out of my face. I'll go tomorrow. I'll have more energy.

Good Shelley: You gave your hair tie away? That is your excuse. So what...your hair gets sweaty. It's not a crime. And you'll go tomorrow? Liar.

Bad Shelley: Fine. Bitch.

(this time...took the turn and went to the gym...)

I rocked the elliptical...and yep, felt much better afterwards. I came home and had a nice dinner...hunkering in and watching some Lost on the DVR.

Happy Mardi Gras!!

2010-02-16T11:51:00.004-05:00

Doesn't Happy Mardi Gras just seem so much nicer than Happy FAT Tuesday even though they both mean the same thing???

It's that lovely last day before Lent. That day...when people are supposed to eat everything in excess before heading into the self-sacrifice period of Lent.

I've always given up something for Lent...since I was a little kid. It was something my mom would have us do. I don't think I even related it to having anything to do with church or God, but it's always been a part of my life.

Are people giving up something for Lent this year?? And if so...what are you doing???

Of course there is always a joker...who says they are giving up homework...or school...or brussel sprouts, etc. (FYI...I LOVE brussel sprouts).

I always give up the same 2 things....

CANDY

and

PIZZA.

Pizza is my main vice. I swear...pizza could be my undoing, no doubt. So, having a 40 day period with guaranteed no pizza in my life is good for me. All those pizza commercials will of course torture me, but alas...I'll resist like the good little girl I am. Now, usually...I order a big ol' cheesy pizza on Fat Tuesday...but this year, I don't think so. I haven't eaten pizza for about a month...so I am just going to continue that trend and head right into Lent, no looking back.

As for candy. Candy doesn't gripe me like pizza does...however, those pesky Cadbury Mini Eggs do. I love those suckers something fierce...and the fact that you can only get their yummy candy coated creamy chocolate goodness during Easter time...makes me want them even more. So, giving up candy for Lent...keeps me away from eating my body weight a few times over in Cadbury Mini Eggs. I usually buy ONE bag...hide it until after Easter and then eat it. Then...I only have access to that one bag...I can get my fix of the best chocolate in the world and be done with it.

I also thought of giving up weighing in on the scale...since I am one of the people who likes to weigh every single day (whether I am losing or gaining or staying the same). But...in the end, it's not something that messes with my mind...and I like a daily check in of how my weight is doing...so, I figured...no real need to give that up.

What are people giving up out there...and more importantly, why????

Happy Valentine's Day and all that jazz!!!

2010-02-14T13:50:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day Folks!!!

I've often had a conflicted relationship with Valentine's Day. I wanna think it's a great wonderful holiday chuck full of love....and appreciate those in your life who you are lucky enough to love...however, on most years...I felt this way:

Just like Christmas and Easter...and heck, most holidays around are so commercialized. Valentine's Day seems to be all about buying the candy, the chocolates, the jewelry, the flowers, etc.

Of course...it is only that way if we let it. It is just as easy to send someone a love filled email or make a hand made Valentine's Day card.

And...for someone who is chronically single, sometimes I think Valentine's Day is just mean. I know it is meant to be able celebrating love, but sometimes it also seems to point out those who aren't in relationships, etc. Valentine's Day is fantastic...unless you happen to be without a Valentine.

But, it's only that way...if you let it be. I know...that my single status, let's face it...is a conscience choice. There were times in my life that I was single and really wanted to be in a relationship. In those years, I think V Day stung a little bit more...it seemed like it was rubbing its nose in my lack of relationship.

These days...I am so cool with being single and on my own. So...Valentine's Day really doesn't hold that same sting. Instead, I see it as a day to truly cherish the love that is in your life.

Loves in my life...

1) My family. I swear, I am so blessed. I was raised by the best parents in the world. They met when they were teenagers...and they were always each other's love. That kind of example...I learned pretty early on, that most people don't get. And my brother...is pretty kick arse too. We used to fight like cats and dogs, but now I think he's one of the coolest people on the planet...and let's not forget that adorable nephew of mine. I never get to see him as much as I want to...but when I do, I can never get enough of him and his adorableness.

2) My friends. That's huge. I've been blessed with some great friends in my life. It started from that first best friend in grade school...you know....when your best friend was the friend who lived closest to you. And then in high school...find some awesome and like minded friends. I had no idea who I was back then and still had a group of people who liked me anyways. And those college friends...I thank god for those college friends. I think I was able to find myself in college...and made some friends for life. I haven't kept in touch with all of them as well as I would have liked... but I know they helped shape me as a person. And let's not forget my grad school friends...and friends around here since I've come back home. I've always had a small, but really fantastic group of friends. I'm grateful for all the friends I've had in my life...friends in the past, friends in the present...and friends I have yet to meet in the future.

3) Social work. I truly love my career. It gives me something so much more than a paycheck. I know that if my job was just punching in and punching out...I'd be miserable. Don't get me wrong...sometimes my job makes me wanna pull my hair out, but all in all...I find something in my day in and day out that energizes me and gets me ready to come back the next day. I feel so blessed I found social work...or more likely, social work found me.

4) Movies & Music. I like creative things...always have. I really enjoy someone taking a creative outlet and telling a great story. I've always been a movie buff...love sitting down and getting lost in whatever story they are telling. And, music too...love that music can get to the emotions of things in a way that nothing else can. I have a desire...to actually get out the guitar I have and learn how to use it.

5) Baseball & The Red Sox. Does this love shock anyone? I adoringly love baseball. I spend most of my spring and summer watching games...as many in person as possible. I've also met and reconnected with a bunch of friend through my love of baseball. I have no skills to actually play the game...and I might be afraid of the ball, but I love watching it being played. As spring training is right around the corner...I'm about to get my love of baseball back in my life.

6) My health and fitness. For so many years, I had this as a desire...something I longed for, but not something I could ever obtain. I feel so grateful that it finally clicked...and I finally figured it out...you know...kind of. It's something that is crucial in my life now and not just something I hope for. It is truly a love and something I am not willing to give up...ever!

7) My church. I adore my church and the people there. I used to go to church with my mom because it was important to her and because the people were nice there, but in the last few years it really has become something that fulfills something in me. I've become more connected and more involved...and it isn't just going for an obligation. I feel encouraged and refreshed after going to the service every Sunday...and feel ready for the week to come.

I think that's enough love for one day...especially on this Valentine's Day. I hope that people appreciate the love that is in their lives this year...the big ones and the silly little ones.

Happy Jeudi Gras!

2010-02-04T08:18:00.002-05:00

I know. You are thinking...huh? What?

Our county is having a fitness competition...stealing the popularity of Biggest Loser, we are having our own Biggest Loser competition. (BTW...thought this last week's episode of Biggest Loser was beyond ridiculous and well...dangerous, but that's a story for another day).

People can make teams of up to 4 people...and they weigh-in weekly. The team with the highest percentage body weight lost...they win...not sure what they win, but they win. And, we are also competing with a neighboring county. So, collectively...we want our county workers to be able to lose more weight than that county.

I'm not on a team...in reality, I only have about 10-15 lbs I want to lose, so I wouldn't really much of a help to a team winning anything. Plus, people have to weigh-in at work...and write it down. I love my co-workers, but not enough for them to know what number comes up when Shelley steps on a scale.

Our office does have a team though...3 of the men in our office have a team. They were all talking about it yesterday. I had a family conference and had doughnuts left over. So, I put the doughnuts out for people to munch on. All the members of our BL team...munched away.

Their first weigh-in is on Friday. So, we laughed and said that in the next couple days they need to fatten themselves up...you know...to help along the first weigh-in. We were kidding...until we got serious.

Today is officially...Fat Thursday or as the french would say Jeudi Gras! One of the women at work...made a yummy cake. There will be lots and lots of goodies to eat before the boys embark on 2 months of losing weight...and trying to kill the competition with their killer numbers.

Now, if that's not hilarious....I don't know what is.

P.S. As a gender study...it's also hilarious to me watching the men all talk about how they are going to lose weight...and what their goals are. I'm so used to women constantly talking about it. I told one co-worker yesterday...that he's totally turning into a girl.

Low Calorie Foods that Trick Your Brain!

2010-01-29T13:15:00.003-05:00

I've been doing my very best to live healthy...and for the most part, doing a pretty good job at it. I've stopping grazing on whatever food is in the house at night and went back to eating food I like that is also good for me.

I've been going more often than not to my cardio classes in the morning. I never thought I'd get used to working out at 5:15 in the morning, but it's amazing how your body adjusts. (Of course I say this while I skipped class this morning...it was way too cold, so I convinced myself to workout when I get outta work this afternoon).

My overall goal is to lose the 10-15 lbs I gained over the fall and winter...and am giving myself plenty of time to do it. I'd like to lose that chunk of change by Opening Day (baseball of course)...which is April 4th. Right now, it's January 29th...so, that means basically 9 weeks to lose 10-15 lbs. Definitely realistic and doable. And I'll be honest, if I never lose another pound again...I'd still be happy.

I was reading an article today during my lunch break and it talked about low calorie foods that satisfy your brain. I was pretty happy with myself that I eat a lot of these foods on a regular basis.

1. Eggs. I don't eat these often. I've never been much of an egg person and if I do eat eggs, I buy cage free, free range eggs...which cost an actual arm and leg per egg. I do eat the egg beaters from time to time...and they are pretty tasty. I probably wouldn't hurt me to eat more eggs...as long as I can afford them in my budget.

2. Protein. People always ask me if I eat enough protein since I am a vegetarian. I eat enough protein and then some. I drink a lot of whey protein shakes. I also eat cottage cheese which has protein and eat lots of beans, which are rich in protein. I figure...I am gonna make sure I don't make that mistake of eating only carbs just because I am a vegetarian and don't eat meat.

3. Broth Based Soup. Yep. Only kind I eat. I always have to check and check twice that the broth is veggie broth, not chicken or beef. I love a good minestrone or spicy soup. It's the great part of a dinner on a cold winter's night.

4. Complex Carbs. Fruits and veggies are my friends. I would eat myself our of house and home of them if I could. I always said if you offered me a bowl of chocolate or a bowl of fresh fruit...I'd take the fruit anydays.

5. Popcorn. One of my favorite snacks. At night, I often pop one of those mini bags of 94% fat free popcorn bags...and just munch away while I am watching tv or playing on the computer. You can eat so much popcorn..and it's just 100 calories. Me likey.

6. Beans. I love beans...I am constantly cooking with beans. I can make killer chilis and stews. Complete staple of my diet. If you told me I could never eat beans again...I might try to hurt you. Black beans, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, red beans...I could go on and on.

7. Salad. Me. Love. I eat at least one big garden salad a day...if not two. The crunchier and fresher, the better. I usually just put a little low fat or fat free italian dressing on it and I am good to go. It's my lunch every single day...ask any of my co-workers.

Now chocolate, ice cream and pizza did not make the list. That is highly disappointing...if only...if only.

Happy Friday ALL!

yawns....

2010-01-23T19:53:00.006-05:00

I actually slept in this morning. I didn't set my alarm...and when I woke up, it was 9am. Yep, I am that old that sleeping in...means 9am. On most days...Monday through Friday, I am either up at 4:30am or 6am...Saturday...no definite time and Sundays I have to be up to be at church at 8:30am.

So yeah...I might be a morning person.

Yesterday, I went to this little Red Sox event. It's called the Red Sox Road Trip. They basically go around and go to all different states in Red Sox Nation. Of course, they don't come to New York...but they did go to Vermont. They were at the mall in Rutland. It was worth the hour drive.

Highlights of the event:

1) This kid was walking around the mall and came upon the Red Sox event. Kid was wearing a Yankees shirt. As he turned the corner and saw hundreds of Red Sox fans, he nonchalantly zipped up his hoodie to cover his Yankee shirt. I literally laughed out loud.

2) I got a coupon to buy two more Red Sox tickets...I know, I know...like I need more. But of course, I always need more. I can buy them before they officially go on sale.

3) Wally was there. He's a mascot for the kids...but he's still all kinds of adorable. Word on the street is that I fist bumped him when he walked by. Cannot confirm or deny. Wally then...walked into the Sprint store and looked at phones. Hey...mascots need a cell phone plan too.

4) I got to hang out with the World Series trophies again. I touched the 2004 one when no one was looking...and also got to oogle a guy's world series ring. If I could have, I would have distracted him and totally stole it. I want that bling!

5) While in Vermont, I bought a couple of things. Who can go to the mall and not buy things? I bought a Paul Pierce Celtic t-shirt. I figure...I don't have any Celtics shirts and my fav current basketball player is Pierce, so seemed like a good choice. Also bought a pair of warm, comfy Red Sox pajama pants. P.S. Vermont does not have sales tax on their clothing...which is of course, awesomesauce!

Long Time Netflix Customer NO MORE...

2010-01-13T16:24:00.004-05:00

Hey all...most people who know me...know that I am a big ol' movie fan. I like watching them, talking about them. I worked at a video store....not for the paycheck, but for the free movies.

Anyways...I've been a Netflix customer since 2003. Even when I worked at the video store and got free rentals...I still kept my Netflix account. I like how their website works and the send movies really quickly.

However, I've been having problems with them lately. I mainly just use Netflix for their new releases since I've seen almost every older movie at least once...if not numerous times over. I make sure my movies are returned on the weekend, so that I can be waiting for those new movies to be sent to me that will be released on Tuesday. Well...for almost a month, Netflix was not sending me all, if any, or the new releases in my Queue. Movies would go from not released yet...to VERY LONG WAIT. I still have Up in my Queue and that movie was released on November 10th. A movie is still unavailable 2 months later? That seems like a system that is not working.

So, I got annoyed and called Netflix. I explained why I was frustrated...and that I hadn't been getting new releases. I explained that I only use the account for new releases, so it really is wasted money if I can't get the new movies more often than not, etc. The woman tried to explain that new releases were in high demand so sometimes people can't get them. She also explained that most people like old movies too...so I should add some of those. Then...when I continued to say that I was disappointed it took so long for movies to become available when you don't get them right away. She had no answer for that....other than new movies are popular. She also said Netflix chooses to not order more copies of new releases because then they will be overloaded when they are no longer new. While that might make sense for them as a company....it doesn't help their customers get the new releases they are looking for.

And then she said..."Well maybe Netflix isn't the right service for someone like you."

I kind of laughed. I said thank you, hung up and canceled my account at the end of the month period I had paid for. I don't mind not getting movies sometimes...since well, we can't always get the movies we want. I don't mind having to wait sometimes. What I do mind...is not getting good customer service. And...if you invite me to go somewhere else, that is exactly what I will do.

I am switching over to the Blockbuster Online plan. I know Blockbuster has issues of its own. I was with them for a short period of time when they first went with the online plan. However, I am giving them a shot. One, I can pay the same price as Netflix to get the same plan at Blockbuster, plus I can exchange 5 movies in at the store for another movie. Therefore, if I know I am not getting a new release...I can go to the store on Tuesday and exchange it out. Secondly, I have a store literally right around the corner...so, I can return the movies there and get the movies back just as quickly as I did with Netflix.

So...see yas Netflix...hello Blockbuster!!!

And lookie me...writing more!

2010-01-07T14:25:00.002-05:00

I said I would write more. Here is me writing more. Evidence. Ha! Ha!

It's only Thursday, that's not bad...eh?

This week I've been getting myself all caught up at work. Going on vacation is nice and all....but in reality, it just means you work your arse off double time both before you left and when you get back.

And...so far, I've held to my no Wal-Mart in 2010 goal. I have noticed things that you can only get at Wal-Mart...including one of my favorite flavors of yogurt. I am mourning the loss of them from my life.

Anyone out there in internet land a Celtics fan??? If so, umm...that OT win last night was the awesomesauce. I was watching and dead tired and thought I might head to bed. I was sure glad I didn't since that game was well worth staying up for. It was clearly the best game I've seen all season long.

As for working out, I am trucking along. I'm taking a step class on Mondays and Wednesdays. I have taken a step class since either 2004 or 2005. On Monday, that class kicked my arse...no lie. I was wondering if I was going to survive. Shockingly, on Wednesday it was hard, but not nearly as hard. So...I am looking forward to it again next Monday and the Wednesday after that.

And tomorrow...I am taking a class called...are you ready....

CARDIO EXPLOSION.

Giggles. That name both entertains me and terrifies me. I'll let you know exactly how much cardio explodes after class tomorrow.

CARDIO EXPLOSION Y'ALL!!!

Goodbye 2009, Hello 2010!!!

2010-01-01T10:39:00.002-05:00

In many ways, I can't believe it's 2010. It seems kind of surreal, but it's here...2009 was kicked to the curb.

Last year I said the same thing I am about to say this year...that I don't make new year's resolutions, but that I am going to be committed to things in the next year. (Yes, I realize they are the same thing...I am just calling it something different, but well...sometimes the words you use matter). Last year I said I wanted to be more organized. And yeah, my mass cleaning in the last few days...showed that I haven't been uber successful at that.

So, my commitments or goals for 2010.

1. I want to write in my blog more. I went for months without writing last year. I think I got busy and honestly, bored with it. I spent more time on Facebook and Twitter...and watching lots and lots of baseball. I still plan on doing those things...but also planning on writing here more. I figured I am either going to write or quit the blog...but I'm not ready to quit yet, so I had better get to writing.

2. I am giving up Wal-Mart. I've never been a fan of the company, what they do to the local community and small businesses...and in particular, how they treat their employees. For years, I didn't go there or didn't go there often. However, I started going back for the nice, sweet deals...and have been going at least once weekly for the past few years. At the same time, I've continued to really be anti Wal-Mart's policies....so, I am kicked Wal-Mart to the curb. Sometimes, it'll be fine and sometimes...I know it's gonna be hard. I'll know that I am paying more other places for something that I could get cheaper at Wal-Mart, but...I think it's worth. So Wal-Mart....see ya...don't let the door hit you on the way out.

3. Being organized and less messy. Yeah, I've spent the last 2 days cleaning...getting part of the house in order. There is still more to do. I am just someone who seems to natural be messy and like to clutter. But, I am going to commit to getting myself organized and neat. I've already done a bit of it...and there is more cleaning ahead of me for the weekend...and then the hard part, keeping it that way. I have a lot of stuff...and need to go through it and either keep it and have a place for it...or get rid of it. Here is to a neater, more organized Shelley in 2010.

4. I always like to have a fitness related goal. For the past few months, I've been hitting the gym at least 3-4 times per week. I've been going in the mornings before work and even though there are days I really don't want to get out of bed, it really is working for me. I want to continue doing that. I've got a great workout buddy and that makes it so much easier. Ideally, I'd like to bump it up to being at the gym 6 times per week...going some evenings after work to do the weight circuit system they have.

5. I'd like to cook more than I do. I often come home...and either make a can of soup for dinner or throw a veggie burger in the oven...or make a frozen meal. It's really just for convenience, but I'd like to spend more time making meals from scratch. I am really quite a good cook, but I don't do it very often. I'm gonna get out some of my vegetarian cookbooks and maybe purchase a few more...and just spend more time experimenting in the kitchen.

So those are my commitments for 2010...how about you????

An update and I AM ON VACATION!

2009-12-18T21:37:00.001-05:00

That's right, I am officially on vacation. Not for the next week, but the next TWO weeks. And to make it even better...I am heading to sunny, warm Florida on Sunday. We'll be spending the holiday with my brother and his family in FL..including my adorable little nephew which will be turning 5. I cannot wait to get down there and play with him.

Here are 5...err....7 interesting things about today...

1. It was negative 6 degrees when I woke up this morning. Seriously. I usually workout in the mornings on Friday, but I went back to sleep when for an hour...and figured I'd get my workout in later in the day (which I did btw).

2. I got the H1N1 flu vaccine today. They had a clinic at my work. I wasn't sure if I was going to get it since it's so new and all. But since I knew others who got it...and none of them grew a tail or anything, I decided to get it. Some tidbits about getting the vaccine...one of the nurses was a major b-i-t-c-h. She seemed to enjoy ruining people's day. Two, the nicer, but pushy male nurse...he really tried to convince me to get the nasal spray instead of the shot. I wanted the shot. I don't like that the spray is a live virus. So, I listened to his speech...and then demanded the shot.

3. Today was our work Christmas Party. It's always a good time. We eat a LOT of food...and then play a great game of Yankee Swap or Chinese Auction. I enjoy the stealing of other people's gifts. I ended up with lotion from Bath & Body Works...which of course, we know I love.

4. I was actually prepared for vacation this time around. Usually on my last day of work, I am running around like a chicken with my head cut off (nice phrase for the vegetarian to say, eh?). This year, by the time Friday rolled around...I was basically ready for my vacation to start, which was a good thing since most of my day involved food, the flu shot and a holiday work party.

5. I do go to the gym after work and rocked the elliptical...which is a good thing since I also rocked the buffet table at our party. Interesting side story...while at the gym, I saw a guy who looked familiar, but wasn't sure WHO he was. As I was walking around doing laps after working out...I saw him again, he said, "Hi, how are you?" I said "Good, and you?" etc. He's about my dad's age...so I figured he probably worked with my dad or something. About a minute later...I figured out who he was...he is our city's mayor. Yep. Good job on not recognizing your own mayor. Awesome.

6. Did I mention I am heading to Florida...where it is sunny. Of course, I hear we might be driving right during a snow storm. I am hoping we leave early enough that we miss it. *crosses fingers*

7. It's 9:30pm...on a Friday night...and I am exhausted. Yep, I am THAT old. Just sayin.

I hope everyone has a fantastic holiday....and I hope it doesn't snow TOO much in lovely Upstate NY/ New England while I am gone. *winks*

Thanksgiving Update: Family, Food and Fitness

2009-11-30T18:47:00.004-05:00

So, this past week was Thanksgiving and all. I had a nice holiday. My dad, brother and I went to spend the holiday with my cousin, her family, my aunt and uncle in Massachusetts. I hadn't seen that side of the family in a couple years, so it was nice to catch up...and just spend time chit chatting with them. Plus, my cousin's husband is a tremendous cook...so, it was a great meal. I could have eaten for days and still had yummy food to eat.

I made a couscous dish to share. I knew they had plenty of food and said we didn't need to bring anything, but I thought I should bring something. Plus, being a vegetarian and all...I always feel somewhat like a pain in the arse when going to big meals, etc...so bringing a dish makes it seem less so. The dish was couscous, sweet potato chunks, scallions, thyme and dried cranberries. I thought it was a pretty good dish...and healthy too.

And I haven't written or talked about fitness and health all that much on the blog lately. I gained a smidge of weight during the end of the summer, so I knew it was time to take it off. I was kind of stressed out and figured that chips and ice cream were a great solution. My pants were getting a little tight and all. 10 lbs or so...needed to be removed from my arse. I hadn't been good about going to the gym...and was just eating whatever I wanted to. Not the best plan, eh? So...for a few weeks...I've been watching what is going in my mouth and I have been going to the gym a few times per week.

So far...so good. This week...where most people gorge themselves with Thanksgiving food and gain weight, I stepped on the scale this Monday morning...and I am happy to report, I lost 3 lbs. I definitely kicked up the workouts...and enjoyed my Thanksgiving dinner, but didn't go overboard and didn't bring ANY leftovers home.

AWESOMESAUCE. That is all.

Happy Birthday Mom!

2009-11-21T10:19:00.003-05:00

Today is November 21st....it's would be my mom's 63rd birthday...truly the most amazing person who has ever touched my life.

Miss you Mom!