A is for Accomplished

Ok, so I know to most this might not be a "real" accomplishment BUT for me, it was on my list and it took me 3 hours last night so I'm calling it one.

I did it.

I updated my phone FINALLY to iSO5. Woop!

My phone has SO many pictures, all of which I treasure and it was a major issue of space when I went to update it months ago. And as we all know, procrastination at it's finest leads to time passing by and, well...here I am like 3 months later and still using the old software. So, now I can finally join the rest of the apple world and enjoy iMessage and iCloud. Ahhh, relief. 

That's about all I have going on right now. I was up late doing that last night, so I'm pretty beat today. I have been sticking with my calories today, and fingers crossed I don't go over at dinner. That's where I struggle. I can do just fine during my day at work (although I still need to up my water intake--4 cups is pathetic!) but then it's like I go home and make a nice meal and....overindulge. Or perhaps I just like Hamburger Helper more than I like sticking within my caloric range?? ;)

Mom and I have walked both Monday and Tuesday of this week, which is ramping me up for the April challenge I am participating in, which requires 30 mins of walking a day. Kind of nervous I will let myself down and talk myself out of it some nights, but so far, so good this week.  I'd really only be letting down myself, and that's what I have to remember.

I am having mini anxiety issues about how I will look for this wedding on Friday. I could not for the life of me find silver shoes for my dress (and I am really debating between 2 dresses) and so I bought a pair (that are cute but not exactly what I wanted?) at Payless just because I was there and was tired of searching. And I'm not exactly sure how they will pair with the dress. I think I convinced myself they'd look amazing but it was because I was short on time and options. I don't know. I don't wanna wear open toed shoes cuz I'd rather wear pantyhose, and yet all the shoes I have or found are open. So....no pantyhose. I HATE hate hate my legs, mainly due to my veins and cellulite and the one dress is a tad longer so hopefully it hides some of it. I don't know. I worry too much. I'm just a stickler for matching and looking nice and I hate when I have a vision of how I thought I'd look and it doesn't match up to what I really look like in the end. But...it's just a wedding. It's not MY wedding and I need to chill. I just also really wish I wasn't broke and could have afforded some Spanx for this event, but now that I know the (cheaper) kind to look for, I will be sure to grab them up for next time (which, coincidentally is in June for my cousin's wedding and I intend to look FAB!)

Anyway, that's all. Happy hump day. Hope all is well out there in the world!

ready to pitch a TENT!

April is almost here and for me and my family, that means one thing:
CAMPING season!!! 
(yes, I am a dork who gets uber excited to go camping).


This little fact seems to surprise many people. Why? you might ask. Well, to anyone who knows me, I appear to be a 'girly girl.' I love make-up and rarely ever leave the house without it ( NO, I am a Barbie who CAN'T go without it, I just don't like my skin and therefore choose to cover it up when at all possible..leave me alone). However, if I am being lazy or I am heading outside to walk, work-out, etc I can go without it. But let's just say at other times, I like to look presentable, if possible. And by that I just mean I slap some make-up on and my hair is straightened--nothing fancy.


So, knowing that about me, it shocks some people that I can camp and be outdoors in the typically make-up free world. Yes, the wilderness and I get along quite well, thank you! I can camp in a tent or camper, but if it's my mom and I going, we use the camper. I still have to trek it to the bathhouse or cop a squat in the woods (let's be real and say I prefer to use a toilet when at ALL possible), and I don't wear make-up. Or generally wash my hair for the 2 days we're there. Scary image? Maybe, but I love me some camping. There is something peaceful about having a campfire, being in sweats and reading your favorite book. We cook hot dogs and marshmallows over the fire, take walks, eat soup and RELAX. We might only be an hour or two from home, but it feels so far removed. It's peaceful. I thoroughly enjoy my time there because it's leisurely and carefree, both of which I crave. Not to mention I get some time with my momma, which is always the best! :)


I have been looking up new campgrounds to try, and actually found one in an area of PA we like that could be an option. My dad tends to get restless and can't fully 'relax' when he's there, so he likes to have a town nearby that he can explore..which means if he goes, Will will end up being his buddy and Mom and I can do our thing (we're both readers and have NO problem sitting by the fire all day). And with Memorial Day coming, a lot of campgrounds open up their pools and you can get a tan (not that I enjoy the prospect of being seen in a bathing suit anytime soon....*winces*). But anyway, I'm excited. We have a tentative trip planned for April and another in May with Will's family. YAY for this time of year!!


No other news to report at the moment. Still trying to get myself together for the wedding on Friday. I am also failing in my attempt to drink more water, but I'm trying to be more conscious of it today. We'll see how that goes...


Hope we're all having an awesome Tuesday. Wishing my twin a great trip this week! Have fun Jaim!


xxoo

Must...drink.....water....

I really fail at drinking my daily quota of water. I always start off strong, and then somewhere in the haze of the day, I stop drinking. I think I maybe get 6 cups a day? which is kind of pathetic. So, I plan to drink at least double that, no matter how tough it is (and really, how tough is it to drink water?! I just hate having to pee every 10 minutes!)


How was your weekend? Mine was good, if busy. Will took me to Stewarts drive-in Friday night, which for those of you who don't live in the area, it's a little drive-in where you eat in your car and cute boys come to take your order and bring you your tray, lol. They make Stewart's root beer and other varieties of soda, if you've ever seen the bottles. So that was delicious, and then we went to the mall and did some birthday shopping for his niece and sister. Saturday, we cleaned out all the window tracks so that I can open the windows and have fresh air come in, WITHOUT dirt and bugs being in the windowsill---so that was a relief. I also dusted my bedroom, ran the dishwasher and cleaned the kitchen floor...so I felt progress was made. All my spring decor is out, so I feel ready for spring finally :)


We had a family dinner at his sister's Saturday afternoon, which was nice. I enjoy the fact that I get along so well with his family, which is a first for me in a relationship. His parents are still married (ALL of my exes came from broken homes, many of which had estranged family members) and that makes a HUGE world of difference. I am glad we both come from loving families with happily married parents. He has 3 older sisters, all of which I adore, and a twin brother (fraternal, not identical) and it's just a nice, big family that I hope one day to be a part of.


That night, we had a surprise party for my cousin, who turned 30 this past week. It was fun to see her and other family members and friends from high school. She and I are close, and we share a lot of the same friends, which is cool. I overindulged on food/drinks/cake that night (including a late night stop at Wawa for a hoagie and Doritos...yikes) but plan to get back on track this week. 


We went bowling with my parents yesterday afternoon, which was awesome. Turns out I'm kind of a natural at bowling! It was amazing. I am SO not athletic and it was fun to actually be good at something without having to try! (And I beat Will 2 out of 3 games, hehe). 


So yeah, that was my wonderful weekend. I have a short week this week, because we have a wedding friday evening, so I took the day off from work to be able to get a mani/pedi done AND my mom is treating me to an updo (since I royally suck at doing anything remotely more challenging than straightening my hair..haha). So, I'm excited for that and I'm just hoping I don't feel extra chubby in my dress...I know I haven't been super diligent about working out, so I have no one to blame but myself. I AM going to do the Jillian Michaels DVD again tonight (dreeeeeading it) and start walking in preparation for the month of April! Going to do my twin's challenge of walking 3o mins a day for the whole month! I must admit, I'm kind of excited to accomplish something and know that I will make it a priority since I committed myself. 


Here's to a healthy start to spring!!
Now, if I can only force down this water.....  ;)

Slack Much?!

Yes, I'm a slacker.
Yes, I didn't feel like writing.
Yes, I'm in a mood.


I don't know what is up with me lately. I've been feeling high and low, happy and sad. I feel like I'm floating along, carefree and fun-loving and then WHACK! Reality brings me back to focus.


I don't really have anything 'wrong' per se....unless you count catching a reflection of your thunder thighs in the mirror and realizing they're worse than you thought they were...much, much worse. Or that there seems to be a stye forming on my left eyelid (or at the very least, a painful, sore pimple). My forehead is still dry and flakey, no matter how much moisturizer I put on and I can't get rid of the scars from my perfume incident (for those who don't know, back at Christmastime, I used a cheap, dollar store type perfume--in my defense, I was out of my Juicy perfume and needed to wait until I got some as a Christmas present, so poor Will thought he was helping and got me a knock-off of a Britney Spears perfume..hey, it smelled good!--but when I sprayed it on, anywhere it touched broke out, including the side of my face, and it took FOREVER and a day to heal and left me with scars, yay!)


So, let's just say, what I see in the mirror doesn't please me.


And yes, I am aware that it is ME and only ME that can make myself feel better. I can work out, I can make it a point to drink a lot more water than I do, etc etc..the list goes on and on. I just feel...gross. I hate my skin, I hate the problems I have with it (anyone know anything about verruca plana?), I hate how lumpy and bumpy my body has become...OH, and I have an ache in the back of my knee right where an extremely visible vein is and I think that's a sign that it will go vericose :( I probably sound like a hypochondriac or whatever, but with my luck, it's bound to happen. The vein is SUPER visible and travels from behind my knee up the back of my thigh. I know some people probably wouldn't notice it or point it out, but to me, I feel like everyone's eyes zoom right in to it. It makes me not want to wear dresses or shorts--things I used to (back in high school) wear with no problem! I was a stick back then...I didn't have VEIN issues at all!! Is this a sign I'm getting old?? Yes, Jaime, it is.


Sigh. Ok, pity kick is over. Sorry. I don't know why I let my own issues get the best of me. I think I'm just extra cranky from having to work late last night. I was here almost 2 hours late, we were so busy! I know it's overtime and all, but even that barely helps. Waaaaah. I know. I need to stop spending so much on clothes and shoes and start SAVING!


Things always sound better when you write them out. Now if only they would stick! :)


Hope everyone is having a fantastic Friday and that they enjoy their weekend. It's going to be rainy here, apparently. How fitting...

My twinny twin twin!

Morning bloggerworld!


Just wanted to write a quick post to my twin to say good luck with her wisdom teeth today! I know she is very nervous about the pain and sticking to her healthy eating, but I have utmost faith she will be just fine and manage to keep herself in line!! I'm here if you need anything Jaim <3


I'm sure I'll write more later, but just wanted to get that out before I forgot..


xxoo

Short Sleeves and Panic Attacks!

And so my friends, the warm weather season is upon us. 
Yes, that means baring arms and legs. And feet and toes. Which means I need to get my mangled feet in gear to look pretty for summer. I hate hate hate that I wear stupid shoes that hurt my feet in the winter just to look "pretty." Not only do the boots (and certain flats!) hurt my feet after awhile, they rub the tops of my toes creating corns. Barf. I know. I also feel like I'm going to get bunions from having shoes rub the sides of my feet. I looooove these flats I own (in 2 colors, no less) and while they aren't "tight", I feel like the elastic side rubs into the side of my foot, creating a blister, which in turn, I feel will eventually lead to a bunion since it makes it look like the side of my foot juts out. I probably should keep my unsightly feet problems to myself, but I am not really caring right now :) I did paint my toes last week, which is embarrassing to admit--I ALWAYS had my toenails painted, no matter what the season and I seriously slacked on that this winter. Could it be related to the fact that it was uncomfortable to bend over for a period of time? Yes. Stupid belly.


Warmer weather also means the baring of arms. I rarely bare my legs, unless I get some color on them first...and that won't happen until mid-summer anyway. But my arms are a different story. When it gets warm enough, who wants to suffer through the day in long sleeves? Not me...BUT, I also hate how fat my arms look (to me anyway) and I hate showing them. I know I say this every year and then somehow I get the confidence to wear tank tops on a daily basis BUT I have to suffer through this intimidation and self-critiquing first. My skin is dry, and I also tend to get "chicken bumps" on the backs of my upper arms, which I always hated. I know I need to exfoliate more in the shower, but it still sucks. In reality, I hate my thighs/legs wayyyyy more than I do my arms, but for right now, it's arm-baring weather and so that is what I shall focus on.


Oh, and to top it off (since I'm critiquing myself anyway), my side-bang that I got back last week gets greasy super fast and I hate that. I like washing my hair every other day (sometimes every 3 days) and these bangs don't allow me to do that without looking like a greaseball for a day. Sigh.


I was bad this weekend. Not so much food-wise but shopping-wise :( I have this horrible spending habit, and this weekend was no different. I cry and stress on a daily basis about the debt I'm in, and then I go out and put an exorbitant amount on my credit card. Shopping makes me feel better, it makes me happy...but I know that is no excuse. If I want to stop wasting hundreds of dollars a month in credit card payments, I need to LOCK up the card, asap. I can't wait for the day that we live together, because I know with us sharing bills, I'll have leftover money that I can splurge with every now and then. But because money is so tight for me on my own (and I know it's not an excuse but still), I use my credit card as a fall-back and get into trouble with it. I did buy some dresses and cute Easter decorations for my house though ;)
But, to avoid future panic attacks, I need to stop. Seriously.


Goals for the week/rest of month:
1) clean downstairs and put Easter decorations up (prob will do this tonight!)
2) update phone and get laptop up and running *dread this one*
3) begin cleaning out of closets! (This, for some reason, I WANT to do and maybe because it's daunting or I'm lazy, I just don't make the time for)
4) Donate clothing to a good cause, like a women's shelter
5) exercise more and take advantage of nice weather
6) clean windows so that I can open them and enjoy the breeze without worrying about bugs/dirt 
7) Figure out possible career path that would make me happy 


and yeah, I think that's it for now. Jaimi will be happy to see I am back on track with MFP and will continue to log my calories/exercise. I'm meeting Mom at another park tonight, so I'm excited! Then I'll make dinner and hopefully do my decorations/catch up on this weekend's TV shows. Despite mini panic attack/anxiety about money, I'm feeling good!

Chapped Lips & March Madness

Yep, my lips are chapped. I put chapstick on, I lather them up before bed, and still...they become dry and chapped. Thanks a lot, lips! You are my pride and joy and yet you rebel against me....sigh.


I'm having a craptastic Friday so far. That sounded snarky, I apologize. But when your day starts off with you forgetting your breakfast and dropping your sweater in a puddle, it's bound to happen! So..it is what it is. I am feeling slightly more chipper as the day goes on, but 1) I'm still at work for another 4 hours and 2) I'm hungry. I ate a pop-tart for breakfast, which I looooove but I limit myself to 1, since 2 of those suckers has a whopping 400 calories! (See, I am learning to control myself). Will offered me a heavenly red velvet cake muffin from Wawa this morning but ever since I discovered they have a horrific 700 calories to them, I try and steer clear (Key word is TRY). I might let myself indulge on a weekend, but not today. Especially since I am going to have a major calorie fest at my friend's tomorrow for St. Patty's, it's best I limit myself today. Baby steps, Jaim. Baby steps.


Every guy is going nuts over March Madness. Will even took off today to go out and watch the games! Must be nice. But, I get that it's a guy thing and they enjoy their games. I plan to enjoy mine come next weekend when I *hopefully* go and see the Hunger Games!! I hope it lives up to the books. Movies rarely do, but I still hold out hope.


I am feeling sassy today. I usually have some type of sass going on on a daily basis, but today I feel a smidgen extra. I also feel a bit down in the dumps, which is a weird combo. Not sure what I have to be down about, but nonetheless, the feeling is there. I think I am realizing I am a bit too sensitive sometimes, and I can completely take something to heart when it's nothing and I shouldn't. I feel let down by people a lot, and I hate that. I do my best not to let others down, but I'm realistic--I know it happens from time to time. I just hate when people do it to me. I canceled on a friend tonight because I'd rather have a pity party night in to myself (the plans were loosely made, but I still feel bad) and she probably feels let down by me but I justify it. Clearly I have issues. haha. I don't know what's going on with me. It's a friday, it's the beginning of a relaxing weekend, and yet I can't get rid of this nagging downer. 


It probably relates to my total lack of exercise this week. I walked with Mom last night but that was it ALL week. Pathetic. I want to look awesome come summertime and yet I make no effort. Only person I can blame is the one I see in the mirror!
But...I am logging my calories and trying my darndest to stay within range. I am also taking care of appointments that needed to be made, and having a list of things to accomplish helps. 


Anyway, I should go before this blog ends up even more depressing than it already sounds (to me). Hope everyone is having a fantastic Friday (without chapped lips!!)

Little things.

Not much to report on today. We had our pizza lunch here at work and I limited myself to 2 slices. Doesn't sound much like a limitation really since 2 is still a good amount of pizza, BUT I probably could have eaten a 3rd...or maybe even a 4th, haha. I work with all guys and watching them chow down and remembering I'm a lady helped to keep me line (hey, we care about what we look like eating, don't we?! I tried to be dainty and not smear grease all over my face). I think what they say about eating slower does help, though. I took small bites simply to avoid getting anything on me and it really helped me slow down how quickly I ate the slices..which in turn led me to eating less and realizing I was "full." And my little choice that makes a difference was bring my bottle of water into the room and NOT having Coke or Sprite like the others had. I reaalllly wanted some soda, but I thought of MFP and having to log the calories (even for a teensy, tiny glass) and it just wasn't worth it to me. I could have 2 cookies for those calories and I'd rather enjoy those later! So, like I said, it's the little things.


Haircut went well last night, for anyone wondering. Mandy did an awesome job, and I really liked the salon. It was small and cute and the people all were nice. Mandy was a little rough around the edges but she knew what she was doing and did as I asked, which I appreciate. Here's a pic. I like lots of layers in my hair, if you couldn't tell. 

Off to Mom's to cook dinner (chicken sausage!) and watch VAMPIRE DIARIES!! Woooooooo!

Boo hiss.

Well, I had my health screening today. Funny how I was most worried about my BMI and it turns out that was normal! It's my cholesterol and blood pressure that were high :( Ugh. Makes me sort of scared. I know I need to exercise daily and eat healthy, but I still worry something is wrong with me for my numbers to be elevated. My dad suffers from both, and I worry it's hereditary and I'll eventually have to go on meds, too :( Ugh. What a way to start a day I was already dreading, haha.


Haircut anxiety in full effect right now. I know it's dumb of me to worry about getting a bad haircut, but I LOVE my hair. I know it would take some effort for the girl to seriously screw it up, and I do plan on giving clear instructions but still. New salon, new worries I suppose. But, at least it's a bright, sunny day out there and after it's over, I'll get to enjoy the sunshine for a bit. I'm going to make the chicken sausage for dinner tonight, along with some pasta (I know, I know..small portions!) so I'll report back on how I like it. If it's tasty, I plan to pick up some of the flavored varieties my other grocery store sells. 


Not much else to report about right now. Mom finally booked our house at the lake for August, which is exciting! I'm still bummed that Will's family is taking vacation that same week ( I was REALLY looking forward to taking 2 vacations this year, one with each of our families but now it has to be squeezed into one). It just sucks because his family is going to New Hampshire, which is a long drive for us...whereas my fam is going to the Poconos, which is only 2 hours. I don't want to sacrifice time with either, it's sort of depressing. I feel lucky to even be able to take a vacation though. Hopefully, it will work itself out and we'll have a great time no matter where we are!


Excited for my salad at lunch. Which reminds me that I need to log into MFP for the day. I've been slacking!


Wish me luck later. xoxo.

Shadow Days are over...

So, my title is from the new John Mayer song (which I LOVE!) and it felt appropriate today. I love JM, and was devastated to find out he had to cancel his upcoming tour due to his throat condition worsening. I sincerely hope that he tours again one day and that I get to see him. I see him every time he comes to town and he is by far my favorite artist. His music brings me back to a different place and time, mainly college. It's almost like the soundtrack to that time in my life...I can hear a certain song and instantly be transported back to a certain feeling, a certain place, a certain mindset. It's amazing. I look forward to hearing his new music, and I suppose for now, I'll rejoice in the fact that his new CD will still be released in May. 


I know not everyone likes him but just wanted to share that since it was a downer in my day. If you look at the lyrics to the song, they're good :)


In other news, after I sent the Etsy woman ANOTHER message, I received an email that my necklace was shipped. FINALLY!


I was ravenous last night and ate more than I should have..and as a result, gained back the pound I lost since Sunday. I know I told myself I would only weigh every Monday but I couldn't help myself. I knew I overate (after the dentist no less!) and wanted proof of my stupidity. Not that I'm stupid, I know I'm not...but...I did what I did and I wanted to force myself to see the results. I didn't work out last night (no Jillian....) and today is all rainy so I don't know if I'll get to walk with Mom but I know I need to stay on the healthy path and just keep doing whatever I can do. I'm making smarter food choices, but I know I need to boost my exercise levels. I have that wedding at the end of the month, and I want to feel comfortable in my dress!


I have my health screening tomorrow. Kind of nervous to see the results and get my BMI but at least it's not going to be thrown in my face. I do the tests, get the results and leave. I hope it's quick and painless.


and yes, Twin, I get my hair cut tomorrow night! Here's hoping I like Mandy and the new salon!

2 Legit 2 Quit...

Haha, I don't even know why I made that my title. Today has been wacky so far. I did NOT want to get up this morning. The time change has really thrown me off. I slept in so late yesterday, and today, I really debated calling out of work to sleep more. But, I have a dentist appt tonight right after work and it's literally a short drive from where I work so I made myself come in. Of course, when I got to work, my computer would turn on but wouldn't connect to the server or internet, and I wasted an hour waiting for IT to fix the problem. So yeah, what a way to kick off Monday morning!

But, I have lost 2 pounds since I last weighed after my Poconos trip! woohoo. I still think my scale is funky, but I weighed in yesterday and I was down a pound from that this morning. I'll take it! We went out with friends on Saturday night, and I had that baby shower that afternoon, but I made smart choices (salad at the shower, with only a SMALL portion of pasta on the side and drank only water..I did have a slice of cake though but that was it) and at dinner, I indulged but since I was eating small portions at the shower, I think I balanced myself out. I always indulge more on the weekends, but I think it's a good sign I kept myself on track during the week! And Will being the sweet boyfriend that he is, took me grocery shopping yesterday, and I was able to stock back up on some produce and meats for the week to help keep our eating out at bay. I got some sweet chicken sausage, which I am excited to try. I saw different flavors of chicken sausage at Shoprite, but Acme only had the sweet variety so I suppose I'll start with this and see how I like it first. But I feel better and on track when I'm at work and steadily logging my calories, so here's hoping for a good week!

I am sort of nervous for my health screening here on Wednesday. I don't know what the results will reveal, but I am hoping for nothing bad or scary. I also get my hair cut that night and I always get stupid anxiety when going (AND trying a new salon). But I need to tell myself it's just hair, it does grow back, and if the girl follows my layers that I have now, it should be a breeze. Fingers crossed!

Not looking forward to the dentist tonight. I haven't been flossing, and I know he will give me crap for that. It always makes my gums very sore and bloody, and that is the WORST. But, I need to suck it up and get it over with. This is the year I am becoming healthy, and making appointments at the dentist/doctor are all on my list. I am even making an eye appointment, since it's been awhile since I've had my eyes checked and I don't want my vision declining without my being aware of it. I just want to be a happier, healthier version of myself and want to leave no area unchecked. I don't mind doctor's visits (except for the dentist, ugh) so it's not too hard for me to accomplish.

Has anyone ever ordered off Etsy before? Jaim, I know you are the only one who reads this but I'm asking anyway, haha. I ordered something back on Feb. 27th, and last week, I emailed the girl and she said it would ship last Monday. It's been a full week and nothing. I emailed her again yesterday (politely of course) and nothing yet...I just worry that she took my money and won't be shipping me the necklace! I don't mind if it's not ready or she didn't get a chance to ship it like she said she would, but I'd at least appreciate some honesty and communication!

That's all for now. Gonna suffer through this day and the dentist, and then RELAX! Season finale of the Bachelor tonight, too. Haha. 

Off the rails...

I'm miserable today. I'm going to state that right off the bat. I have cramps, I hate my job, I feel gross and down about myself...the list goes on and on. I haven't exercised like I should have this week, so my weight isn't any better....I just got paid and yet most of my money goes towards bills and I'm once again wondering how I will survive for the next 2 weeks...ugh. I'm sorry for being a downer. I know this mood will pass but right now it just feels like a black cloud is hanging over me. Not to mention I have something in my eye that I just can't get out! I have eye make-up on and it's the worst when you're trying to not mess that up but trying to get something out of your eye. Booooo. 
Anyway, maybe I will write more if I'm in a better mood later. I'm hanging with the friend I mentioned in a previous post tonight and I feel the need to brace myself and mentally prepare for that. She isn't the type that will make me feel better when I'm feeling bad about myself looks-wise, I'll just put it that way. And tomorrow I have that dreaded shower. Sigh.

Survey saysss..

Ok, I'm addicted to sharing info about myself. OH WELL!
Enjoy :)

A: is for Apple, what’s your favorite variety?

Honeycrisp

B: is for Bread, regardless of nutrition, calories, or whole grains what is your favorite type to have a nice big piece of?

Omg....I would every single kind. Sourdough, anything fresh baked? cheesy bread? i don't care :)

C: is for Cereal what is your favorite kind currently (just one!)

Hmmm...I eat certain cereals because they're better for me, but they aren't my "favorite" per se...but I guess my all-time would be Raisin Bran

D: is for Doughnuts, you might not currently be eating them but what kind do you fancy? 

Jelly

E: is for Eggs, how would you like yours prepared?

Over easy with salt and pepper, please!

F: is for Fat Free, what is your favorite fat free product?

Greek yogurt

G: is for Groceries, where do you purchase yours at?

Acme or Shoprite. Wish I was rich and could shop at an all-organic or Whole Foods.

H: is for Hot Beverages, what is your favorite hot drink?

Hot chocolate/coffee

I: is for Ice Cream, pick a favorite flavor and add a fun topping.

Rocky Road with chocolate syrup?

J: is for Jams or Jellies, do you eat them, and if so what kind and flavor?

Right now, loving my sugar-free apricot! But I love strawberry preserves and grape jam/jelly with PB!

K: is for Kashi, name your favorite Kashi product?

Go Lean Honey Almond Flax cereal

L: is for Lunch, what was yours today?

2 slices of tomato pie from my FAVE pizza place!

M: is for microwave, what is your favorite microwave meal/snack?

Popcorn...or Chef boyardee microwave meals, hahaha

N: is for nutrients, do you like carbs, fats, or proteins best?

Carbs for sure!

O: is for oil, what kind do you like to use?

Olive oil

P: is for protein, how do you get yours?

Chicken, eggs and greek yogurt

Q: is for Quaker, how do you like your oats?

Recently fell in love with steel cut oats! mmmmm. with some strawberries on top

R: is for roasting, what is your favorite thing to roast?

Marshmallows over a campfire!

S: is for sandwich, what’s your favorite kind?

Bologna and cheese..in love with Cooper Sharp American cheese lately

T: is for travel, how do you handle eating while traveling?

Sadly, I look at it as a time where I'm allowed to indulge. 

U: is for unique, what is one of your weirdest food combos?

I put ketchup on my potato chips, but that's not that weird. 

V: is for vitamins, what kind do you take?

When I remember to take them, I take a multi-vitamin and Vitamin C and sometimes echinacea and cranberry

W: is for wasabi, yay or nay?

NAY

X: is for XRAY. if we xrayed your belly right now, what food would we see?

My pizza and one peanut butter cookie...and my toast from this morning...and water.

Y: is for youth, what food reminds you of your childhood?

My mom-mom's creamed corn and my mom's gravy/biscuits and breaded steak

Z: is for zucchini, how do you prepare it?

Steamed? don't eat it much unless I'm out somewhere and they serve it.

Feelin' this Thursday!

Hello lovelies! What an amazing Thursday it has been so far. I might be at work, but I'm feeling good and that's what counts :)


I generally love Thursdays anyway. Will and I go to my parents house every week for dinner and then Mom and I watch Vampire Diaries. I was wrong in thinking it came back on tonight, but we're still going to go and hang out and relax with them, and that always makes me happy.


Speaking of my parents, my WONDERFUL and amazing father just rode his motorcycle here on his day off (yes, my parents BOTH ride motorcycles in warm weather and I am uber proud of that fact) and brought me my FAVORITE pizza in the whole world. It's like tomato pie, and for those who know me, I don't really like tomato sauce (don't like tomatoes actually) but I LOVE me some of this pie. YUM. I am super excited to have it and read my book on my lunch break. He also brought me cookies to share, which are peanut butter (one of my faves) and oatmeal raisin. I know what you're thinking because I'm thinking it, too--this doesn't exactly help with my diet. Sorry, lifestyle change because it is NOT just a temporary diet (wow, I am using a lot of words in caps--sorry!) But...it's a treat and he was nice enough to bring it to me, and even though I went out to the Olive Garden last night too (whoops), I am indulging. But, I am still logging into MFP and tryin to keep my calories in check for the rest of the day/night. I'll have cereal tonight if I have to to counter-balance the pizza!


I am just feeling happy overall. Which is awesome, considering work made me SO mad yesterday afternoon (I stayed late and came in early today for some OT) but even that isn't bringing me down. It's a gorgeous (but windy) day outside, the nicest of the week at almost 70 degrees! That's like spring here in NJ. I plan to walk tonight with Mom OR start the couch to 5k treadmill edition on their treadmill. It's something I've been wanting to do, and if I'm already there 2-3 times a week, why not take advantage of it and use their treadmill? This way, I don't have to rely on Mom to walk with me if she doesn't want to, I can put music on and make myself do the work. So, if we walk outside tonight because it's too nice to pass up, I will start this plan on Sunday at their house. Then I can do Sun, Tues, Thurs which works out perfectly since I am there Thursday nights anyway!


In other news, I sucked it up and scheduled a hair appointment. For those that know me, this is a big deal for me. I am not one of those people who lets her hair grow and grow and never cuts it--no way! It's not down to the floor or anything...but I am also not one of those people who follows the rules and gets it cut every 4-6 weeks either. I dont have the money for that AND i'm too lazy. Plus, around 6 weeks, I like how my hair looks. So, it's been several months. Since (gasp!) November I think? So it's overdue. I love the length of my hair/layers, but I am not loving how dry it feels or my split ends. And I have been on the hunt for a good salon to try out. My old one I wasn't feeling anymore (Mom had a coloring issue there and won't go back and i tended to make my appointments around when she'd go for hers). The stylist there was sweet, but sort of ditzy and never remembers what I liked done. Mom went to a BestCuts cuz she has short hair and didn't care to stop in there, but since I have longer hair (and layers) I wanted to place my trust in a salon that came recommended. I asked my cousin Shaina (who was longer hair like mine that's always cut nicely) where she goes, and lo and behold, she goes to a salon really close to my work. I figured, if I like her hair and she's been going to this woman for awhile, why not give it a shot? Plus, I can make the appt for 5 p.m. and go right from work, get it cut, and call it a night! So, I did it. Next Wednesday at 5. I'm nervous but extra anxious to have a nice, good cut done. AND the receptionist was super friendly, so that made me happy with my choice. I don't think it's super expensive either, which is good considering another friend recommended me to Ulta and I know they are pricey.


Wow, I really just went off about my hair appointment like it's hot news. Sorry, I get kind of neurotic about my hair apparently. I always worry I'll get some hack job done and hate it and cry...but I know if that happened it's just hair and it will grow back. And if I give clear instructions (it's really just a trim and reshaping), then how can she go wrong??


Next Wednesday is also the day I get my free health screening here at work. Another item on my list of positive health changes!! They will test my cholesterol, blood sugar for diabetes, blood pressure and BMI. I am nervous to have my finger pricked for it, but it's painless right? (you're talking to a girl who has never given blood because she's scared of needles). I'm just really anxious to get the results and know if I'm possibly in danger of having high blood sugar or cholesterol, and finding out what my BMI is (which is prob BAD). So it looks like Wednesday will be a day of new experiences for me!


Other than that, nothing else going on. I'm eager to eat my pizza and escape the reality of work for a little bit with my book (still on Beautiful Creatures, book 1).  I have another silly survey I am going to post, but probably a little bit later though. Gonna sign off for now and check up on some blogs and I'll be back in a little bit.


Hope everyone is having a nice Thursday :)

Hello, bloggers! I'm Jaime...

Before I head to lunch, just wanted to post this quick little survey about me that I saw on another blog. Thought it was cute and would give you guys (if there is more than 1 person who reads this) insight about me :) Enjoy!


Age: 28
Shoe size: 9...ugh
Chore You Hate: cleaning the bathroom!!!
Pets: even though when I moved out, he didn't move with me, he's still MINE lol--one dachshund, Sammy! :)
Essential Start of Your Day: to wake up feeling motivated
Favorite Color: red
Gold or Silver: hmm..used to be a silver girl, but I am loving gold lately! BUT i do want my engagement ring to be white gold/platinum :p
Height: 5'8"
Instruments I Play: played flute in high school, can sort of play keyboard? haha
Job Title: work flow coordinator. Lame.
Kids: none yet
Live: New Jersey!!
Mom's Name: Teana (pronounced like Tina)
Nicknames: Jaim, Jaimers
Overnight Hospital Stays: none
Pet Peeve: being late, waiting on people who are late
Right or Left Handed: right
Siblings: one brother, Ryan, who is 2 years younger than I am
Time You Wake Up: around 7/7:30
Veggie You Dislike: onions and mushrooms top the list.
What Makes You Run Late: wanting to sleep longer than I should.
X-Rays You Have Had: on my knee and teeth x-rays at the dentist!
Yummy Food You Make: macaroni and cheese, chicken fried chicken, beef tortellini soup
Zoo Animal You Like Best: love animals, but especially love seeing the tigers at the zoo!!


And that's it :) Cutesy, I know.


Oh, and since I forgot to post it when I got back this weekend, here is a pic of Will and I before we went snow tubing!

DONUTTTTTTT!

So, I'm going to start off by saying today will probably be a weak day for me. And by that I mean I'm going to be weak. I'm starting my day off with a Dunkin Donut for crying out loud, but when my boss buys them and plops them down next to me, I can't resist. WEAK! I looked it up and entered it into MFP, but I never know if it's actually legit and telling me the right amount of calories? I'm hoping it is, and because I'm eating this, I won't be having my toast or anything on top of it like I normally would have. I know we all deserve a treat once in awhile,  but Will and I were also talking about going to the Olive Garden tonight and using the gift certificate we have...which means pasta, which = more weakness. Sigh. BUT, it is supposed to be amazing and warm later so I told him if we do that, I want to come home after dinner, change into comfy clothes and head to a park near us for a GOOD walk. So I hope we make that happen!


Nothing else is really new or exciting to report. I sat around last night and watched a bunch of my TV shows (I am addicted to many of them) and I have more of them to catch up on at some point tonight as well. Jaim, if you haven't watched Being Human, you might wanna check it out. It's more adult than Vamp Diaries, but it's really good and another of my fave shows. It comes on Mondays on the Syfy network :) And I think VD is back tomorrow night?!! *fingers crossed* Can't wait to discuss that with you!


At least today means the work week is halfway over. I would like to say I'm looking forward to the weekend, but unfortunately, I have to CLEAN majorly AND I have a baby shower to go to that I'm not too excited about. I'm not close with the girl who is pregnant, but we grew up together. I think they invited my mom and I out of respect for that ( we lived across the street from each other and were neighbors for almost 20 years). i dont know, I just feel kind of awkward. At least I have my mom going with me! 
Any fun weekend plans for anyone else?


Well, I'm going to finish my coffee and donut and get some work done. We are "testing" our new system again since it's Wednesday and since I hate that, I'll be on here reading blogs for that hour! lol.


xoxo.

FOCUS, Jaime.

Where has the day gone? It totally got away from me; I meant to write a lot sooner. Not that I have anything pressing to share or anything exciting to report on, but I just like starting my day off with my thoughts. And here it is, 1:30 (Eastern time) and not one word!


I must admit, I got caught up reading Diaries of a Fat Girl. I discovered all kinds of new blogs today, thanks to those that I read on a daily basis. I added a bunch and intend to read their whole blog, no matter how long it takes me! I feel inspired by many of these women, and it's always uplifting to know you aren't alone in your struggles, big or small.


I'm in a bit of a funk today. I feel like so much of my energy is spent focusing on little things that are WRONG with me instead of appreciating what is RIGHT. I'm always worried about my eyebrows needing to be plucked, or my teeth needing to be whiter, those pounds I need to shed. It's a never-ending battle and it's draining to constantly have an issue with yourself. I know it might be trivial things and I'm not obsessing and making myself sick over them, but thinking about them takes energy and I DON'T WANT NEGATIVE ENERGY ANYMORE!!! lol. 


I need to look myself in the mirror and see that I have a pretty smile..that my hair might have split ends but it's layered nicely and it's long and shiny...that I don't have bad acne and my skin is relatively clear (except for those darn bumps the derm still hasn't figured out). I need to focus and be positive and infuse myself with good thoughts! I might be at a job I hate and too scared to approach the idea of going back to school (namely because I have NO idea what I want to invest time and money in that will make me happy on a daily basis) BUT I graduated college. I've been at a steady job going on 6 years. Those are both good, positive things. I'm a hard worker, even if the pay is crappy. There is a lot that I value about myself that just falls by the wayside when I get in one of my "poor me" moods. I have a little list of self-improvements, but for now, I need to focus on what doesn't need improving.


So, enough of that. I'm going to put a smile on my face and love myself! Small steps will help me achieve my goals, big and small, and all things take time. Gotta remember that.


Before I run to lunch, just wanted to ask--can anyone recommend the BEST peanut butter for you? i was contemplating buying a whipped version, but I have no idea what is the healthiest. I know it contains a lot of calories for only a little serving, but I'd like to enjoy it on my toast every now and then but knowing that I'm using a healthier option. I also wanted bread advice, but I am going to go out in search of Ezekiel bread soon. Also, is whipped butter the healthiest option? My fam has always used margarine or "I Can't Believe it's not Butter" and I have NO idea if those are good or bad or if real butter is actually the healthiest. I need help!


Ok, off to have some tuna and triscuits. Trying to switch up my lunches here and there while still staying low in calories ;)


xoxo

Award love

Sooooo Jaimi gave me the Liebster award :) I really had no idea what this was, until I read her blog (for those of you who don't know who she is or what I'm talking about, refer to JayMOO to JayME to check it out). I'm honored that she would mention me on her site, and in turn, I feel the need to spread the love I have for her to anyone who might read this. First of all, here is what the award looks like:

I thank her SOOOOOO much for it!! :) To quote her blog (and to quote Legally-Fit who originally gave it to Jaimi):

Liebster is German and means 'dearest' or 'beloved', but it can also mean 'favorite'.

The idea behind the Liebster Award is to bring attention to blogs with less than 200 followers.

Well, that would be me, seeing as I have ONE follower, hahahaha. But oh well, I'll take her any day over 100. 

Second, her blog is amaz-ing and you MUST check it out! I love her, and I haven't even met her. She inspires me on a daily basis, and I can't imagine not having her to help keep me on my path to a healthier me!

I know one of the stipulations is to give this award to 5 blogs I follow with less than 200 followers, but since I'm a newbie to the blog world, I don't follow many blogs? I follow Jaimi's, so of course I linked hers to this post, but besides her, I don't read anyone else's on a daily basis. I just started following her sister, and I do follow Legally-Fit, but I'd feel bad pretending that I follow them faithfully when I don't (yet!). So for now, I just want to thank Jaim for the award and post it here since it was so thoughtful of her. In time, I hope to award it to 5 other blogs that I do faithfully follow and show them some love in turn!

And so, I'm back.

Happy Monday!


Ok, so it's not really that happy. My mini-vaca is over, and I'm back here at work. Time sure does fly when you're having fun, but why doesn't it fly during the workday?!!


Our trip was great. The resort was nice, our villa was cute and very accommodating, and we were only a short drive to most places we wanted to visit. We checked out the Country Kettle, which was this awesome country store, with all kinds of souvenirs and in the back, they had all these barrels of loose candy that you could add and weigh. Heaven! Needless to say, I did not eat as planned this weekend :( I did try and watch what I ate, but as always on vacations, there are too many temptations to avoid. 


We went snow tubing on Friday at Shawnee Mountain, which was exciting. I saw all the people skiing and snowboarding and kind of wished  I was able to do all of that as well. Knowing me, I'd break a leg if I even attempted, so I guess it's best I didn't. We had a nice dinner out Friday night at some restaurant called Big A's, and then went to the local movie theater to see The Lorax! I really liked it, but I don't think Will did so much, haha. It was SO different from Jersey though, because it was opening night for the movie and we were the ONLY two in the whole theater seeing it! haha. In NJ, the theater would have been packed and noisy, etc. So even though the theater was kind of quiet and creepy, it was nice not to have company.


They also had some premium outlets out there, so Will took me to check those out. I cannot resist shopping! Ughhhh, I wanted to buy so much, especially when I saw the Forever 21 outlet! I just love looking in there. In the end, Will got me a shirt and 2 rings (I am obsessed with costume jewelry, especially rings) and I bought myself a shirt, necklace, ring and bracelet (all for $36, mind you). Not too shabby. I also conned him into getting me a cheap pair of Chuck's (converse sneakers). I don't normally wear sneakers unless I'm attempting to be athletic or exercise, but these were super cute and would be nice for casual wear. He's such a good bf :)


We didn't get to check out the indoor pool (mainly because we couldn't find where it was in the resort) and I didn't have time to use the whirlpool tub in our villa, but overall, it was a nice trip. I loooove being away and getting to see new places, so this satisfied my traveling bug for a little while. Next up is another trip to the Poconos in August, but to Lake Harmony with my fam. SUPER excited for that trip!!


It's kind of a chilly Monday here, so Mom and I are going to stay in and attempt the Jillian DVD again tonight. I am going into it with the mindset that it's ok to go at my own pace, and that I dont need to kill myself with the cardio and make myself sick like last week (I also think i need to eat or drink something beforehand to keep my blood sugar in check). I get winded doing 45 secs of cardio and this time, I want to pace myself so that it doesn't happen again and then I hopefully won't be struggling to even complete the whole 3 circuits. Even if I can only do 2, I want to do them completely so that's my goal for tonight. It's a struggle since I'm so out of shape, and I do admit I'm a little scared, but the effort is all I'm asking myself for. I know Audra did it every day last week and lost 4 pounds, but I can't compare myself to her or others because that's not me. I just want to make myself try and keep trying. 


I need to wait until I get paid this week to restock my fridge with healthy foods (I'm all out of salad stuff, etc) but I still have a few things to help keep me healthy until then. I am also really looking at serving sizes and trying to control my portions. AND my Nike+ band arrived, so I need to get my laptop up and running so I can sync that and start wearing it to help me with my mission. I think it counts calories burned and my mileage, so my little walks/jogs can help me build up endurance! I have a wedding at the end of the month that I'd like to feel semi-good for. I just want to feel comfortable in my dress and not feel "fat." I also want to learn how to do some kind of updo so that my hair isn't down and boring for it like always. I feel like I have a list of stuff that I want to do/accomplish/work on. That's a good thing, I guess!


Ta-ta for now. Guess I should so some work :-/