Hiatus Recap

I have been a bad, bad blogger and have taken a sort of 'hiatus' as the post is appropriately titled. Not purposely, its just that life itself has consumed me more than ever over the last week or so.  I've been hitting the gym - hard.  Working - hard.  Playing - hard. I had a bachelorette party in AC this past weekend for my friend Christine which proved to be a true girls fiasco! I've been avidly working with my trainer and attending my weekly fitness classes, proudly reporting. As we hear time and time again, summer is truly just around the corner. 

Which summer, I will be prepared for with my very cute new bathingsuit from Vicky's (as posted about here) - of course the bathinsuit arrived a la UPS 30 minutes after I left for AC so I couldn't even wear it on my trip (indoor pool)...but it looks great on and its very cute with the ruffles and fitting color!

I picked up a pair of shoes from Piperlime this past week and they arrived yesterday - very cute.  Although they are a bit uncomfortable and I'm just not sure yet if I'm going to keep them. I even bought them a 1/2 size larger because that's all that was available but my toes seem to squish quite a bit...I'm going to wear them around the house for a while to get the full feel of them. Thanks to E at Strawberry Swing and other things for the awesome coupon which led me to score these beauties for a measley $38 -- If I do return them, I'm going for a nude caged bootie, which I've been desperately lusting after for quite some time now. 

I haven't done much shopping otherwise...I'm trying to avoid the malls and actual stores because we are finalizing our bathroom renovation which has turned into an over budget, over timing project.  Hopefull WELL worth it when all is said and done.  I will post before and after pics when finalized, I can't bare to let the cat out of the bag before it complete.

I can't wait to post something so very exciting later on today...but I didn't want to overwhelm on one post.  I have great news about AH-MAZING products and even more ah-mazing opportunity that I'm overly excited to tell you all about. 

ta ta for now

xoxo

Happy Manday

I hope all my lovely readers had a great weekend.  Mine was pretty good.  Friday we had some friends over for drinks and Saturday I tried a new class at the gym...tried is the key word...because I thought I was showing up for Les Mills' Body Pump (which I've done a billion times) but in fact, it was quarterly launch and I was attending Les Milss' Body Attack...well it attacked me alright and needless to say I probably won't do that class again.  I'm not a fan of the overly choreographed fitness classes...I like pilates, strength training, yoga and kickboxing.  The basics and body attack was just about anything but basic.  I like Les Mills classes because they have something for everyone.  You can check out videos, descriptions and even find a club that offers the classes HERE

Saturday night, hubbs and I joined my cousin and his girlfriend (one of my best friends) who is super cute and pregnant for a night out and yesterday while hubbs finished sheetrocking the bathroom walls I shopped!! It was so nice to get some new things. 

Picked up the Old Navy belted trench on sale for $35 + 10% off
Peach lace cami paired with light brown fitted cardigan $8 and $11.99 respectively + 10% off
Sweetheart fit bootcut jeans on sale for $15.99 + 10% off and plain 3/4 sleeve shirt for $4.99!!!
Headed to Kohl's for some Lauren Conrad line but they were basically sold out ::wahh::: I did get 2 pairs of Daisy Fuentes crop capri's on sale for $27.99 each (for work) along with Levi's destroyed skinny's on sale for $29.99 and some really cute Candies & Vera Wang jewelry at 60% off (I showcase the Tiffany's version of the mesh earrings I got because I couldn't find the Vera Wang version) but they're basically the same ..here's a wrap up of what I got this weekend a la Shop Style - ooh and VS has their lace waist thong panties on sale 5 for $25 - they are very similar to 'The Lacie' if you like those but for a much better price

More Old Navy...

And no worries - I did not forget Manday - featuring the very (Mc)Steamy, Eric Dane

 Have a good one! xoxo

Health & Fitness - Recipe Share

I'm trying to get re-motivated at the gym through an aggressive workout program.  I figured if I promised myself I'd attend certain classes I would have a much better chance following through than if I was just promising to attend the gym at some point.  I like taking classes because they are on a set schedule and for me, it is a good way to keep it interesting.  It avoids wasted time trying to figure out what to do each day, you just show up/listen to someone and leave.  I find that you tend to make good gym friends at the classes as well and they're always great motivation! So here's my aggressive schedule for the next week:

• Thursday - Kickboxing from 5pm to 6pm
• Saturday - Body Pump from 9:15am-10:15amMonday - Body Pump from 5pm-6pm
• Tuesday - Pilates from 6:15-7:15pm
• Wednesday - Body Pump from 6:15-7:15pm

I'll follow this schedule week to week for the next 8 weeks which will bring us to Memorial Day weekend.  I know I will have a much more difficult time maintaining a 5 day/per week gym schedule in the summer since the booger will always want to play outside so I will more than likely go down to 2-3 days per week then. 

So on to the health side, I have decided to give up desserts.  This is an area that I struggle with consistantly.  I cannot seem to resist ice crea, tiramisu, brownies, you name it.  And I know this is reeking havoc on my midsection.  I have extreme difficulty refusing chocolate of any sort and any sweet for that matter so I have made a conscientious decision to give it up completely - as I did meat (which I'm still going strong).  We'll see how this goes.

disclaimer: Rita's Italian Ice does NOT count as a dessert - especially considering it is fat/trans fat/cholesterol free

And in the good spirit of health and fitness, I'm sharing a very yummy and VERY simple concotion that I personally L-O-V-E...mind you, this "recipe" is for 1 serving (because hubbs and booger do not eat fish I usually cook this for moi only)...again, sooooo easy

Ingredients:

--1 Fresh Mahi Mahi filet (or whichever white fish you have handy - mahi mahi is just really good)

--Birds Eye brand Steamfresh bag of Whole Grain Rice (10 oz.)

  

--Birds Eye brand Steamfresh bag of Peas (the package you want is the one that comes with 4 individual serving bags - use one bag for this "recipe")

--Fresh Salsa...like this (which is basically some chopped up tomatoes, jalapenos, red onions, lime juice, cilantro) luckily for me for $4.99 you can pick up a container of this already done for you it's called "Fresh Salsa" lol

--EVOO

--Balsamic Vinegarette (I highly recommend the Good Seasons 'make your own' version because it is beyond good and you can sub half the amount of oil for more water/more balsamic for a less fat version)

--this yummy delish perfection seasoning: McCormick's Perfect Pinch Lemon Pepper - or any Lemon Pepper seasoning (even the ones from the dollar store work great)

And for the easiness:

1. 
   
   Cook the rice as directed on the package (in the microwave...oh yeah)
2. 
   
   Cook one serving of the peas as directed on the package (in the microwave...oh yeah again) 
3. 
   
   Heat up a skillet so that its pretty damn hot and add a little EVOO
4. 
   
   While that's heating up, rub a little EVOO on the mahi mahi and sprinkle some of that yummy seasoning on it (rubbing it in) and do this on each side, coating it generously
5. 
   
   Put the filet on the heated skillet and cook on each side basically until its seared and cooked most of the way (approx 4 minutes on each side)
6. Add half the rice and the entire bag of peas and drizzle with the yummy bals vinegarette dressing (drizzle, DONT drench) and basically cut up the fish filet with a spatula so that's its flaky and combed through
7. Plate the dish and throw a few tablespoons of the fresh salsa mix on top -- VOILA!!!

There you go - a super yummy and ridiculously easy 'recipe' courtesy of Maria ;)

Just another manic Monday..er Thursday

Because you all definitely need to know my life updates, here goes:

1. NO, I have not been going to the gym in the mornings - why you may ask??? Because HUBBS GOT CALLED BACK TO WORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Woot Woot - shout it out - woot woot

So because hubbs is now full time actively working again I cannot ditch the sleeping booger in the AM to go to the gym because DYFS does, in fact, frown upon leaving your children unattended - so after next week (when god for saken class is over) I'll be hittin up the gym, evening style. 

2.  I am totally, ridiculously stressed about my real estate exam.  The pre-tests are ridiculous they ask the most off the wall nonsensical questions that you'll NEVER ever use in real life - why on Earth do you bog down my mind with uselessness. 
I  w i l l  p a s s  t h i s  t e s t  w i t h  f l y i n g  c o l o r s

3. Kohl's purchase - bust.  Nothing fit the way I hoped it would.  Everything was cute but ehh didn't look so hot.  I plan to try on some different sizes with different shoes, accessories etc. IN the store to achieve better success.  Lauren Conrad I have not given up on you my dear

4. I'm going strong without meat - feeling better than ever!! Not gonna lie, I was craving chicken yesterday but didn't do it.  I am enjoying this. 

5. Spring is almost (officially) here.  2 more days. Oh and guess what? I wore flip flops yesterday!!!! yay

Now I am very excited for this weather, but am prepared for much rain because according to the good ol' Farmer's Almanac its gonna be a wet one this year.  So in anticipation of same, I plan to purchase one of these lovlies:

First Pair - Aldo Ramirec currently on sale here for $59.98

Second pair - Aldo Sliney currently on sale here for $39.98

Use promo code VIPOFFER for free shipping :)

As enticing as the first pair is, I may just end up playing it safe with the cheaper shoe - who knows, maybe hubbs will let me splurge ;)

Of course, coupled with:

Old Navy Belted Trench can be found here for $49.50 and use your ON card and receive $10 off using the promo code THANK YOU

And topped off with this:

Aldo Zenon can be found here for $42 which is a STEAL for this uber cute bag in my opinion

On top of the free shipping promo code above for Aldo - sign up for their e-mail list and you'll receive a coupon for 10% off

Now tell me that wouldn't make rain look fabulous!

If I had it my way; however, I'd be rockin out in the rain like this:

More Be & D...

This stylebook makes my heart skip a beat, those Loubs are seriously orgasmic.  I need those in my life.

And I want to give a big shout out to my girl Dona (that's Doh-nya, hehehe) for passing her insurance exam, she is now officially licensed to do biz in the State of North Carolina - you go girl!!

If you need Aflac insurance, let me know - I'll hook ya up.

Questions, Comments?

Dressing Professionally...and an update

First I'll start with the update...I'm going 13 days strong without eating meat.  I must say, I can definitely feel a difference...I haven't experienced that "stuffed" feeling since I've given up meat and overally I just feel healthier.  Maybe it is all in my head and I'm just 'trying' to feel differently but either way it is working.  I must say, though, I do have a downside to not eating meat.  I subconsciously have convinced myself that since I don't eat meat I can substitute that absence with the presence of chocolate...umm, yeah no not a great idea.  I'm still working on this people.  I didn't make it to the gym this morning because the booger was up all night with the shits, yeah that was awesome.  I will, however, make it to the gym tomorrow night for the kickboxing class.  I missed pilates yesterday because I went to visit my new second cousin in law, Abigail and boy is she precious. My bestie is home now too which is also mucho exciting for moi. (like how I just used french and spanish in the same sentence).

Now that I've updated you on my life, because we all know that's what you were anxiously awaiting.  Today my focus is dressing for the office and what rules apply.  Let me preface by saying, I work in a business casual atmosphere and I am going to focus on that sort of environment. Congratulations to miss Jessica for getting her first 9-5er at Aflac :)

Business casual can be simply defined as clean, comfortable and easy.

1. Never, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever wear a bare leg.  I don't care if it's 300 degrees outside and you're sweating bullets.  In my opinion, a bare leg is not acceptable for work.  Always wear some sort of leg cover whether they're nude, black, whatever.  I prefer thigh highs because I do not fancy the over spill that pantyhose causes me in the midsection, but that's a preference.  Obviously, in the winter you would switch to tights. 

2. On that note, skirts.  I LOVE me a good pencil skirt and own about 8 of them in various designs. These are perfect for work wear. And whether you prefer a straight skirt or A line, the skirt length is important.  Around the knee length, not much longer and not much shorter either.  Take into account what length the skirt will be at when you are seated, legs crossed.  It my be appropriate while standing but if you sit and it scoots up to the coochie, that's a no go. 

3. Avoid sky high stilettos.  Honestly, I can hardly believe I'm saying this as I adore a 5" Louboutin pump (adore, not own it's a recession folks). Not only are they not practical but they're a bit overzealous for work.  You're not out on the town with your girls you're more than likely in a cubicle or office with mostly men who will certainly judge you like a street walker for wearing 'em.  I believe sticking to a 3" or lower heel is more than appropriate.  If you must take it to 3.5" that's ok.  And the higher the heel, the longer your bottoms should be (i.e stick to pants with real high heels or opt for a longer pencil skirt)

4. Tops. This, you would think, is obvious.  No, it is not okay to show your bubbies at work.  You are a career woman not a cocktail waitress and you should be taken seriously.  (I know, I sound like a fem bot) But it's true.  You can absolutely look gorge without showing the ta-ta's so just don't do it.  I, every single day, wear a tight fitting tank under every sweater, blouse, top, etc. just so that even if it is low cut the cleave is avoided and if you bend over and its a bit baggy, there's no peep show.

   Don't do it









5. Pants/Shorts. Here is where opinions may vary on what is acceptable.  Obviously, a clean cut dark pant is the easiest way to go (i.e. Express' Editor Pant) because it looks very professional and will match basically anything.  Khaki is great too but shouldn't be worn in the winter (imo) as it is a 3 season color if you ask me.  In the warmer months, shorten the pant to ankle or even calf and in the summer opt for a bermuda length short (shorts that reach the knee) don't ever wear your Jersey shore shorts to work, ever! Leggings - I think leggings are acceptable for work SO LONG AS THEY ARE BLACK and WORN WITH A TUNIC (oversized cardigan, etc)...don't show up at 9am with your leggings and waist length top.  That's not ok.

6. Dresses. I wear a lot of dresses, especially in the summer.  Get your hands on as many very cute, short sleeved boleros and cropped cardigans as you can.  These will take all of your summer dresses to work appropriate attire. You need to 'feel out' your own workplace and see what works because for me, I can wear a bare shoulder without a problem but in a more corporate setting that won't be acceptable.  Again, do not forget to cover the leg and don't forget to add a tank of some sort if the dress is v-neck.  The length rule above prevails.  You will know what's approprite.  If you can feel a breeze on your buttcrack its toooo short.  Its good to get a second opinion on length if you can because I know I've convinced myself that certain lengths were ok, when they weren't. 

7. Miscellaneous.  I do not agree with standardized opinions that you have keep your makeup boring and basic.  I've worn a smokey eye to work and I personally think that's fine.  Although I don't wear a lot of makeup to begin with, well I do, but it doesn't look like I do.  Obviously you need to avoid glitter at all costs and should stray from a bright red lip or statement falsies.  When it comes to accessories...I say it depends on the outfit.  If you're wearing a black dress, black pumps I think its more than fine to wear a statement necklace, but keep the earrings simple at that point.  It's all about balance.  Don't walk in with 20 bangles, hoops and an eleaborate necklace with a cocktail ring.
 
Headbands are more than fine so long as it is not overdone...this is acceptable

                                                        this is NOT acceptable

Balance, Balance, Balance my ladies.  It is important to be stylish, but comfortable.  It is important to look like a professional but keep your femininity.  The days of high end structured suits are gone.  You can look just as amazing at work as you would for a night out on the town...just don't choose the same outfit for both occassions.

If I missed something, let me know.  Share your opinions and ask me questions! Would love to hear the feedback.

Sweet...it's Manday

A loooonnng overhaul for me today followers, I was out of work on Friday due to the snow...yes snow, can you believe it, I was shocked too! not. I'm so over the winter its not even funny.  I'm sick of black and grey and I have really cute white pumps I want to rock, immediately but due to the whole "White Rule" I can't and it makes me angry.  For now I am dreaming of coral, yellow and pink but hopefully it will soon be reality. 

All that aside, Thursday night I took an AWESOME kickboxing class at my gym.  I absolutely love the instructor (whose pilates class I take on Tuesday's) and the class kicked my assss big time! I was dripping sweat 10 minutes into the class and that's what I call a workout.  I skipped the gym on Friday because I shoveled snow for a good 2 hours and that's what I call the suckiest part of my day a good core workout!  So my exercise over the weekend was pretty nice.  Unfortunately I couldn't get my lazy butt out of bed for 6:45am Saturday yoga (again)...maybe next weekend? Eh hem, although I was in fact at the gym this morn at 6am.

The weekend was well, mediocre.  We were basically 'snowed in' on Friday but we ventured out later in the day to hang with my bestie's mama dukes (heyyyy Joan) which turned into a whole entire night of eating Kashi pizza and drinking 2 magnums of red wine...yes you read that right, two magnums.  It was a good time. 

Mi mama's cumpleanos was Saturday so we had her over for dinner yesterday for a lovely seafood extravaganza and capped out the night with some good ol' closing ceremony action followed by Desperate Housewives! The only shopping I did this weekend was for groceries and new tires, unfortunately.  So no exciting purchases to share.

After today's man parade, I'm going to come back later and discuss an inspired topic....Workplace Fashion Rules so stay tuned :) .... I know, terribly cheesy but I couldn't resist.  And now back to our regularly scheduled program featuring the scrumptious Ryan Reynolds and if possibly there's some god for saken reason you don't know him - he's a gorgeous actor married to Scarlett Johansson who's been in some great movies...Smokin' Aces, Waiting, The Proposal, Xmen: Origins and some stints on SNL (he used to be engaged to Alanis Morrisette):

KWEENO, KICKBOXING AND ANN TAYLOR

Quinoa (pronounced kwee-no) -- a fabulous nutritional grain, cereal like.  Nutritionally MUCH better than even brown rice.  It's protein content is unusually high (12-18%) and unlike rice it contains a very balanced set of essential amino acids for humans which again, makes it a complete protein source.  A great source of dietary fiber, gluten free and easy to digest.  To make quinoa, you have to first soak the grains in hot water for a good 5 minutes in order to remove the bitter outer coating called saponins after soaking you will drain all the water (using a mesh strainer if you have one as the grains are very small) you then cook to a rolling boil and once boiling, cover with a tight lid and let simmer for 15 minutes.  After same, take the pot off the heat (still covered) for 5 minutes, fluff with fork after and you're set. 

I had this with my dinner last night and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised at both the taste and the texture.  Now, when I boiled it I substituted the water for chicken broth and there are TONS of tasty recipes online.  Try it.

This is what the uncooked quinoa looks like...similar to pastina if you've ever had that. 

I found THIS great recipe that I'm going to have for lunch today.



On to other news, SURPRISE its snowing again today! Shocker.  I mean, when is it going to stop already? I have 3 ready to pop pregnant friends and I don't believe that a blizzard is very good 'I'm on my way to the hospital' weather.  So enough already.

I'm taking a kickboxing class tonight at 5pm (will probably get my own butt kicked) but will let you know how it goes.  I cannot say enough how much I really loved that pilates class on Tuesday...my abs are still burning! I know if I continue to take the class each week I'll definitely see an improvement.  I'm hoping they add a 2nd convenient class that I can take.  I've decided that Mon, Wed, Fri I'll do the 6am gym and Tuesdays and Thursdays I'll take a class at night.  Will keep you updated on my progress!

I know this post hasn't been tooo exciting but I just had to share my excitement for this new food as well as the fitness updates!  For my fashion and beauty segment today, I'm going to share my rant about Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft.  Let me start by saying this is one store I always looked at as an 'older' store - I always thought it was a store that women in their late 30's and early 40's shopped at to look somewhat cute and on trend.  I was a very sadly mistaken young girl when I thought this.  The oh-so-adorable Chloe at Chloe's Conspiracy has me HOOKED on Ann Taylor. 

However, my dears, I very quickly came to shocking revelation #1 - I cannot afford to shop at this store, not even on sale I mean, some stuff has ok prices, $39.99 isn't bad for a nice cardigan but $128 for a statement necklace or $88 for a shell? 
They just have the most adorable, feminine, gorgeous pieces of everything - they have very cute jewelry and their ruffly, flowery, girly colored tops are to die for.  Here is my "want list" of Ann Taylor items that if anyone really loved me lots would get for me!! btw my B-diddy is 12/31, my Anniversary is 7/25,  Christmas is ALWAYS 12/25 and Easter this year is 4/4...K thanks, xoxo

C l u s t e r f r u c k

There are days when I log on to blogger and think "hmmm what shall I discuss today" then there are other days (today for example) that I log on and can't figure what it is that I'm going to discuss because I have SO much on my mind.  I'm a bit compulsive in the fact that if I blog it, then schedule it for another day I might not want to ever post it because I want it to come out right here, right now as I'm thinking it.  So this may be a   v  e  r  y   l o n g   post. 

First, I was greeted this morning with a rude, incompetent annoying man aka the service guy at my car dealership.  He's stupid and impossible.  The entire dealership sucks big you know what and I will never ever do business with them again - not to mention that I will spread the word like a plague so that no one I know will either.  Rant over.

I am one angry mama

Putting that nonsense by the way side,  I cannot say how FRICKIN EXCITED I AM....my bestie best best in the whole world is coming home to visit on Tuesday from her new temporary home in North Carolina; we're taking a trip to AC from Friday to Sunday and I took off work Thursday/Friday to cheeeel with her.  I can't wait, I haven't seen her since Christmas and miss her dearly; mind you we practically have been joined at the hip since we were 13 years old...this is a pictured scenario of what our weekend shall be like

Last night I took a pilates class and I must say it was AH-mazing...I've done pilates at home for about 4 or 5 weeks now and I certainly can see a difference in the toning and shape of my physique and it takes very little time to do so.  The thing with pilates is that its a TON of effort in a small amount of time, but that's allll me. I have limited time but am willing to work during my few moments.  I will continue the class regularly, no doubt.  And recommend any of you who want to shape and tone to take a class or pick up a video
(my fav is this one right here) which you can actually purchase, with the bands, for like $8!!!

I am definitely going to start focusing some of my posts of fitness, health & nutrition.  I have been very passionate about both of those issues for quite some time now and would like to share what I have learned and discovered.  I'm not saying I don't go off the deep end on a raging bing of chocolate of ice cream every once in a while, but for the most part I am dedicated and focused.  And bikini season is RIGHT around the corner ladies, believe it or not Memorial Day weekend is only 3 short months from Sunday..so we all need to get our arses in gear

And there's nothing like getting you motivated than seeing your favorite swimsuits in the flesh, literally.  I am a fan of the cut out one pieces because while sometimes I do have the balls to wear a 2 piece in the glory of my post baby :::cringe::: body I do prefer the one piece more and am very glad they made a stellar comeback more recently.  I'm definitely getting these 2 suits for summer.  Although hubbs will more than likely get rid of me if I buy one more bathingsuit (I must have at least 30)

Ruffle One Piece - Victoria's Secret  ................................ Plunge Neck One Piece - American Apparel

Which do you prefer...one piece cut outs, tankini, bikini, retro? what strikes your fancy?

Now that I've gone off on 3 separate tangents...let me regress back to the HFN (my new ackronym for health, fitness & nutrition)...I am doing well on my new, no-meat diet.  I actually feel really really great and I encourage any of you to try it out and see if you like it too.  I, personally, was encouraged by my dear friend Kori (who also doubled as my wedding planner at the time) who is now a vegan.  She briefed me on the industry standards for meat production which grossed me out terribly and told me to read the book "Skinny Bitch" which I ordered from Amazon yesterday.  So we'll see how that book goes. 

Separately, I must say that I have a much better appreciation of what goes into my body now in my 'older years' than I did when I was in my teen years and very early 20's.  I used to scarf down anything I could get my grubby little hands on and refused to basically eat any fish (besides shellfish), never ate beans or legumes of any kind and the only veggies I ever ate were the ones you could smother in ranch dressing; otherwise it was a no-go for me.  Now, I cannot get enough of raw (and cooked) vegetables, fish of every kind, beans, raw nuts, wheats and grains and steer clear of most things that are processed. I try not to eat anything that comes individually wrapped because 9 times out of 10 its probably not good for you. I've found that food tastes so much better when its fresh - from fish to vegetables and everything in between.  I also think that vegetables are one of those food items that you can mix a hodge podge of any of 'em and they taste incredible.

I'm really going on and on now so I will stop.  Comments, anyone?

Holy Bejesus Whirlwind

10:31am and already a shit storm of stuff going on today! Well I didn't get up for the gym this morning folks...and not because I'm lazy but because it was rainy and snowy and since I don't have class tonight I decided I'm going to take a 6pm pilates class tonight instead :::Jaime you know you want to come with me::: I do mediocre pilates at home and while I'm certainly no expert I'm not afraid to try a new class but having a little moral support helps in case I look like a total arse who doesn't know how to do it, I'll have company :)

That being said, on to my shit storm (and let me preface by saying none of it is really earth stoppingly exciting but more like "holy cow that's a lot of shit for 1 hour") -- so first my boss tells me that our next project is going to be opening up a burger and mexican joint - okay, I'm in - I don't eat meat anymore but I like me a good roasted vegetable fajita so that works for me.  Then my doll of a friend, Dana told me she started a blog today - YAYYY!!! Here's her masterpiece Then my other friend Jaime (same girl who will be joining me for pilates tonight, rigth Jaim?) told me she got a fabulous new job that pays well and has lots of opportunity so that's great news for her (and me, because now I'll make her buy the drinks when we go out)...my other friend told me she just did very well on an interview last week and quite possibly has the job (way to go Nic)...and last but not least I had one hell of a good breakfast this morning! So I've had a great 9am-10:30am day thus far, woot woot.

Speaking of that same breakfast -- let me share because it was heavenly.  It was this:

with a small handful of these:

and about 2 tablespoons of this:

Not even joking - it was a party in my mouth, tasted like a heavenly dessert.  And for less than 150 calories and repeat with me now, ZERO GRAMS OF FAT!!!! and repeat this part too FIFTEEN GRAMS OF PROTEIN.
I   a m   s o   s m a r t ,   s - m - r - t

I am going to post later with some shopping, product reviews and other F&B lovin but just wanted to say hi real quick

Catchin up!

Yes followers, today is Manday...and men shall come (later)...but I couldn't post Fri-Sun because I was supa busy so I'm going to try and do a catch all post first.

Gym has been going great for me, I've managed to get my lazy arse out of bed each and every day between 5:30-5:45am and jog to the gym. I was planning on going to a 6:45am yoga class Saturday but my stupid BB alarm was set to weekdays only by mistake so I never woke up in time! Anywho, the whole shabazz has made me feel so much better and I can already see a difference (or maybe its wishful thinking).  On top of that, I have also decided to give up meat.  Its a choice I made not because I'm a huge PETA follower or anything of that nature but just because I think what is done to meat, between how it is processed and the massive amounts of un-natural substances that go into the animals is just wretched.  Now, I've never really been a huge red meat fan but always had my hands on chicken and turkey so giving those 2 up will definitely be a challenge.  Although I have decided to keep eating fish because I can't really figure out how I'd accumulate the appropriate amount of protein needed daily without it.  That being said, I'm about 6 days strong so far and I can honestly say I do feel a bit different...I don't feel bloated or over fed, ever - even if I eat a HUGE plate of veggies I still just feel satisfied at the end; whereas, when I was eating meat I felt like I could binge for days on plates of food.  So we'll see how it goes, I'm going to test the waters for about 30 days and if I see an improvement in anything - my physique, my health, etc. I will stick with it.  If I don't see any difference I will probably take chicken and turkey back and just kill off red meat for good.  I must say, though, we always buy organic chicken so that makes a huge difference.

Thursday night I had a fun shopping trip after work with my friend Jaime...she's one of those people you love to shop with because she never tries to be the 'voice of reason' she proudly cheers on your every purchase and willingly justifies, along with you, why you have to have the item you're looking at! Great shopping partner, check - Great person to help you keep on your budget, check  I picked up a couple very cute cardigans on Old Navy's clearance rack - ALL their winter stuff is on clearance for next to nothing, because they already have out all sandals, maxi dresses, capris, etc.  I couldn't really bring myself to buy Spring items yet because I have a hard time letting things just sit in my closet.  I also picked up a few more pairs of Vicky's new lacie's - which are the BEST underwear I've ever bought, hands down.  :::update...dog ate on pair on Sunday::: and a very cute Chanel-ish scarf from H&M along with a black vest (which I have to exchange because its just a smidgen too small)

Friday we headed out for a fundraiser spaghetti dinner for my son's school.  I ate a stupid amount of dessert.  Oh well.

Saturday night, the hubbs and I got all purdy and headed out to a benefit dinner for my boss' foundation that I manage for him.  It was a very rewarding night for many organizations in my local community and I am proud to say I put a huge effort towards the fundraising efforts throughout the year, so to be "rewarded" with a nice dinner and cocktail party is great! I met a lot of really great people from my area who devote their lives to helping others.  it really takes a special person to do what a lot of those people do every day - putting their own lives aside for the good of others...I respect people like that a great deal and certainly try to do my part.  I can't really afford to do a lot of monetary donating so I try to spend as much actual time as possible lending a hand.
...oh and I finally had a place where I could wear my Manolo's - there's never anything fancy enough or worthwhile to break them out but I did at the dinner - and pretty much got a compliment from every single person so that was a plus :)

And then there's Sunday.  Besides the fact that I was violently ill all morning (because like I mentioned in a previous post...I just can't hang like I used to) I put my big girl panties on and tried my best to suck it up (which I did) and shoved out for a mini-mini baby shower for my dear friend Dana who's little lovely is set to pop out pretty soon! Can't wait :) Love little babies...especially girls.  Her clothes are to die for, she's going to be one well dressed infant!

Last but certainly not least at all....Sunday was the grand opening of the Shop Rite in my town.  Woot woot, I know what you're thinking - who gives a flying beeeeeep.  Well my dears, I DO!!! My boss is a big developer in my area and he owns the land that this particular shop rite was being built on (landlord-tenant) and it has been my job for the last 3.5 years to aid with the municipal, county and state governmental approvals to allow this massive grocery store to be operational.  We hit many snags along the way - being sued by a local competitor several times which cost us hundreds of thousands of dollars and many months of stop work orders so to see the doors finally open today was just AWESOME!!! And believe you me, that place was a freaking zoo yesterday I mean, you'd think these people hadn't been to a grocery store for 30 years the way they were consistently piling in for hours upon hours! It really is a very joyous time for my professional life

So I had a very eventful weekend.  Did you catch Keeping up with the Kardashians last night? or this past Monday which was part 1 of 2 of the seson finale?? I freaking love them and the show just keeps getting better and better. On last nights show Kourtney gave birth to her adorable little boy, Mason. (he was actually born back in December) "watching" her birth was just amazing - she was so calm and collected it was just unbelievable - her doctor even let her PULL HER OWN BABY OUT!!! it was so crazy I've never seen/heard anyone do that before, must have been such a surreal experience for her!  Oh and um, God - yeah Hi, its me Kristen...when I get pregnant again - can you please ensure that I look like this...thanks babe

For now, that's all

Well that caught me off guard

Well hello Wednesday...again this morning early riser to the gym, feeling good - my legs are so sore though, I may have put too much weight when squatting.  Oh well, I'll stretch later to some pilates. 

Nonetheless, last night I headed out to the wonderful world of Wally to get a few things so while I was there I picked up a couple pairs of pants for the gym (because I can't stand spending good money on clothes I'm just going to sweat in and wear for 45 minutes) anywho, while I was browsing the 'activewear' section I realized that the wretched Miley Cyrus has a clothing line at walmart...I'm sure this is old news, but I'm not making a breaking story about the fact that she has the line but that she teamed up with the great Max Azria and the clothes are actually, dare I say it, very cute!! And let's not fail to mention that I got each of these shirts for THREE FRIGGIN DOLLARS!!! Yes, $3.00 that's right.  So even if they are on the poorer quality side (eh hem F21) they're so darn cheap who would even care (eh hem F21).  I was just floored that they were $3 and couldn't resist (so much for my vow yesterday to shop more strategically) but what the heck isn't strategic about 3 bucks?

I got this shirt in both purple and black (although its offered as well, in a teal-ish color and cream) and its very adorable in person - form fitting (c'monnn pilates) but cute :  

 

I got this sweater-y vest in black and in cream (it was also offered in grey) - they're oversized, like that 'boyfriend' look - I'm actually wearing the black today with a dark purple v-neck longsleeve and leggings with black pointy toe flats - its very cute and comfy!!

Then I picked up these 3 t-shirts with plans for the gym, but I actually kinda like the butterfly one to wear on the weekends. Excuse the picture the only one I could find was from Ebay.   I'm not a big graphic Tee fan but I am diggin 'em for lazy days

And last but not least, I picked up this little lovely for again, $3.00.  I also got a purple going out type shirt that I couldn't find a picture of anywhere.  Its very rocker-chic the front is plain, sleeveless and it has a drapey neck then the back is racerback but the whole back is held together by a zipper which you can choose to keep all the way closed or completely open...will go perfect with my new black booties ;)

So my dears, head to your nearest Wally World and get yo self some cute little Miley Cyrus stuffs.  I also noted that they had these black skinny pants that look like leggings but they have pockets and belt loops, they were very cute.  But I was in a bit of a rush and didn't feel like trying them on - they were only $11...I guess Walmart is making a (weak) attempt at trying to up their par to the much better (fashion wise) Tar-jay.  Fine with me. I'll flourish in their efforts.

Another unexpected, delightful find...I certainly know that I raved beyond belief about CoverGirl's Lash Blast mascara a couple weeks ago and I'm not gonna lie - the shit is great...but I found something that is BETTER..yes, friends much much better...Let me introduce L'oreal Extra Volume with Collagen (Keep in mind that with some mascaras the waterproof version may differ slightly from the non waterproof versions - I have only tried the non waterproof version in Blackest Black)

This stuff is incredible.  I am attempting to webcam myself here and show you just how magnificent it looks and I am totally aware of how ridiculous I must appear and that I am utterly terrible at taking pictures but you can pretty much see the feathery-ness, separation and NO clumping what-so-ever, also note the up flip on the outer corners that I usually could only create with single falsies:

You can purchase the mascara at any drugstore but for your convenience, here too

That's all for now. Thanks for reading and enjoy hump day :)