Uber-fast Update!

(How do you like the new title? I'm trying to find another 'U' word to match update...ya know...like 'Tip Tuesday', I have 'Uber-fast Updates' :-). I am accepting other suggestions, though.)

After two 5:30 am swims in a row, I am VERY tired, but also very excited. I LOVE when I am in a nice workout groove. It can be so hard to maintain, but I feel great about myself. I did yoga on Monday morning, swam Wednesday and today, and I am planning for yoga again tomorrow morning. My plan is to get in one final yoga workout for the week on Saturday, but if the weather is nice, then I might walk along the lake instead.

This week I was trying to workout every morning so that I wouldn't have to workout at all on the weekend. However, Monday was a long night, so I slept late (6 am ) on Tuesday. That just seems to be the way that it goes...something always pops up. I'll try again next week.

Lastly, I know you all are wondering what happened to my bike. Ok maybe this question hasn't been plaguing you relentlessly for the last several months, but here is the status. I got the seat lowered so that I can ride it comfortably...BUT the tires are somehow flat. I don't know how the hell it happened, but I sat on the thing and the tires were completely flat to the ground. I have a pump, and both my dad and I tried to re-fill the tires...BUT we don't know how to use the pump. It's weird...a little button on the top of the pump pops up and lets the air escape. So where am I now? I have to take the tire off and take both the tire and the pump into a bike store for a demo. So sad. I'm going to try to put that on this weekend's priority list.

(That update wasn't uber-fast at all.)

Today is Tip Day! (I should have done this yesterday, and then it would be Tip Tuesday, huh?)


Oh Well. I've been browsing the net, and I came across these tips that can hopefully improve your life. I hope that they are helpful!

I know that many of us travel pretty regularly, so here are some tips to keep your home safe, while away.

The Home How To Guide. Step by step instructions on just about every home project imaginable.

Four rules for getting out of debt.

Simple time management and organization techniques.

Five eco-friendly cleaning products.

10 oral sex tips.

How to eat right while dining out.

Build strong core muscles: For Men

Secrets to well toned abs: For Women

**singing** "Motivation! Haters get on ya job...haters get on ya job!"

Who needs a little motivation get off the couch and back into the gym? I've been pretty diligent about working out, but this past weekend I took off 3 days in a row. It felt great, but of course it was temporary. Now it's time to get back on the grind.

This morning as I began looking for tips and ways to motivate oneself, I came across several articles (linked below). However, my favorite mentioned two types of motivation...Positive Motivation and The Fear Factor. Need an example?

The Fear Factor!


Positive Motivation!


I think that you get the point. Either can be very effective at propelling you to the next level in your diet/workout routine. I like to think that I'm primarily driven by positive motivation, but I have to admit...from time to time the fear of 'what could be' is just the kick in the pants that I need. Regardless of what motivates you...use that motivation to set and achieve your goals. Eating right and working out are in your best interest. Not only will you look better, but you will feel better and be healthier.

Still not encouraged? Well here are a couple of articles to get you back in gear!

Get Moving: Top 7 Exercise Motivation Secrets

Tips on Finding and Maintaining the Motivation to Exercise

Top 7 Keys to Motivation for Exercise

CNN's Black in America...womp womp!

I don't have a moment to speak on this subject, but I did want to reference my girl Kismet's discussion of the show on her blog, Waiting 2 Speak. She goes into what the series could've...should've been. Enjoy!

Aaaannnnnd the winner is...




The Sony Cyber-shot 10.1 MP DSC-W170!!!! This will be my b-day gift. I just have to find it at the right price. I'll be keeping my eye out for a sale, but right now the runner's up are...

$270 at Amazon.com

$279 at CircuitCity.com

$269 at BestBuy.com

Hit me up if you come across any other coupons or sales!

Do you day dream?

I always hear folks (ministers, motivational speakers, etc) talk about dreaming big...bigger than your wildest dreams. For a long time it was very difficult for me to really understand this concept. I mean, I'm a pretty practical person, so most of my dreams are things that I really see myself accomplishing based upon where my life is today.

This isn't a bad thing as they say you should have very tangible goals. However, if you believe in God to take you beyond where you can get yourself, then you have to hope for the intangible too. So I've always kinda said "Yeah yeah that makes since.", but I never was able to really wrap my mind around believing in or hoping for something that seemed completely impossible.

Well this morning on my way to work I had a wonderfully elaborate day dream (I mean I was so into it by the time that I re-focused on traffic, I was several exits ahead. Seriously, but for the grace of God, I would not make it.) about making partner after only two years as a senior manager. I imagined myself getting the news, accepting, celebrating by dancing and drinking the night away, sharing the news w/my family, and then being announced to the office as a new partner. I even imagined myself attending new partner training and my 1st partner meeting. It was exciting, made me smile, and motivated me for the rest of the day. Now you may or may not realize this, but I have a VERY active imagination. I day dream about all kinds of things...including those that I am too embarrassed to share here.

Well it hit me that maybe this is dreaming big. Maybe imagining myself and my future far beyond where I am and hope to go is all that I need to do. Clearly you are going to focus your energies on those tangible dreams, but I honestly think that dreaming big helps you to reach just beyond your tangible goals. You exceed your expectations, and end up in a better place than where you expected.

All of this is to say, spend some time day dreaming. Enjoy imagining your life different, transformed, or on another level. Don't start slipping on your pimping and put day dreaming ahead of hard work and actions. However, don't be shy about letting your childlike imagination run wild and seeing yourself in a whole new place. Who knows...one day you just might end up there.

Afternoon funny:-)

This is too cute!!! Dads are the absolute best!

Reminder!!!

CNN's Black in America

July 23
CNN Presents: Black in America - Black Women and Family 9-11pm, 12-2am, 3-5am

July 24
CNN Presents: Black in America - Black Men - 9-11pm, 12-2am, 3-5am

Ok...sorry for my little outburst yesterday. It was driven by stress. STRESS, STRESS, STRESSSSSSSS! However, I recently stumbled across this lovely article discussing work place stress and ways to cope. A couple of the coping mechanisms are listed below. Enjoy!

Tips for coping with job-related stress include:

• Setting realistic goals and expectations at work. It is important to be aware of the available time in the day to accomplish all necessary tasks. Whenever possible, it is a good idea to delegate or schedule tasks in a manner that allows extra time for their completion.
  
  
• Planning ahead. Preparing to the best of one’s ability for stressful events, such as work presentations or job interviews. Not only will this go a long way in promoting peace of mind, but it can also help one excel in such situations.
  
  
• Being assertive. Keeping lines of communications open with supervisors and other colleagues, taking time to consider one’s goals and schedule before agreeing to take on additional work, and saying “no” to nonessential tasks are examples of appropriate assertiveness. It should be noted that this is not the same as being uncompromising or abrasive in the workplace.
  
  Another example is asking for a new challenge if work becomes monotonous. Not only will doing so help improve personal job satisfaction, but supervisors may be impressed by the initiative.
  
  
• Taking breaks when needed. It is impossible to work every single minute of the work day, which typically lasts anywhere from 8 to 12 hours. Going out to lunch, stretching or taking a short walk when necessary can not only help break up the day, but may also provide a much-needed energy boost. When necessary, take a day off from work to regroup and rest.
  
  
• Managing workplace tension. This can be accomplished by working to resolve conflicts with coworkers and/or supervisors in a positive way, such as by talking in an objective, non-accusative manner.
  
  
• Balancing one’s personal and work time. Achieving this balance is very important because being constantly focused on work can leave individuals with little time and energy to spend with significant others, family or friends. It can end up lowering workplace productivity due to burnout from overwork. Over time, it can also have a negative impact on personal relationships and lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  
  
• Incorporating a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet, getting proper sleep, and engaging in exercise as recommended by a physician. Also, avoid coping with job-related stress in unhealthy ways, such as by overeating, consuming too much caffeine and/or alcohol, smoking cigarettes or abusing drugs.
  
  
• Practicing relaxation techniques, such as biofeedback, massage therapy, meditation or yoga. These can help reduce stress and alleviate anxiety, insomnia and depression and physical manifestations of stress, including reduction of blood pressure.
  
  
• Maintaining a positive attitude. This can nurture self-confidence, which can empower an individual to deal with hardships such as being laid off. Other positive coping mechanisms include avoiding self-criticism, being proud of one’s accomplishments no matter how big or small and finding sources of humor (e.g., books, movies).

More Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck!!!!!!!!!!!!

:-(

I'm in the market for a new camera!

After having my camera completely put to shame at my good friend's wedding, I have decided to invest in a new one. I'm looking for really good, true-to-life pics at a reasonable price. Below are a couple of options, so let me know what you think. Also, if you have any other recommendations, then let me know!


Canon PowerShot 8.0 MP

Canon PowerShot 12.1 MP

Sony Cyber-Shot 10.1 MP

Sony Cyber-Shot 8.1 MP

Kodak EasyShare - 10.1 MP

Kodak EasyShare - 10.1 MP

Kodak EasyShare - 12.1 MP

Let's go full-steam ahead people!!!!!!

This past Sunday my pastor got to speaking about moving forward with a spirit of expectation. Check John 5:1-10 if you're looking for the verse. The sermon covered a couple of different topics, but a couple stood out to me.

The main lesson that I learned was to look forward to your future with excitement and the expectation of great things to occur. There are all kinds of road blocks that have stood (and perhaps still stand) in our way. However, we cannot let these things become a deterrent. There are great blessings in store for each and everyone of us in spite of whatever difficulties we face. Let's live our lives looking past our roadblocks to our bright and near future. Let's focus on the opportunities that we have to overcome our hurdles and the reward that is awaiting us, rather than the hurdles themselves. When you focus to closely on your present or past difficulties then you lose sight of God, who holds your solution. Instead focus on your faith, your blessings, and the Lord, and your outlook will instantly brighten.

Fav quote of the sermon: "Sometimes our biggest enemy is our inner-me."

So put a big smile on your face everyone! Great things await us all. No more holding back, making excuses, or waiting in someone else to take us to the next level. Release your fears and struggles of the past....whatever is meant for you, IT IS FOR YOU!!! Nevermind what is standing in your way. If it is meant to be, then there is nothing that can stop it :-D

CNN's Black in America - Don't forget to check it out!

Here's the Schedule:

July 19
CNN/Essence: Reclaiming the Dream - 8-9pm, 11pm-12am
Eyewitness to Murder: The King Assassination - 9-11pm, 12-2am

July 20
CNN/Essence: Reclaiming the Dream - 8-9pm, 11pm-12am
MLK: Words that Changed the Nation - 9-10pm, 12-1am (not part of the BiA series)

July 23
CNN Presents: Black in America - Black Women and Family 9-11pm, 12-2am, 3-5am

July 24
CNN Presents: Black in America - Black Men - 9-11pm, 12-2am, 3-5am

July 26
CNN Presents: Black in America - Black Women and Family - 8-10pm, 11pm-1am, 2-4am

July 27
CNN Presents: Black in America - Black Men - 8-10pm, 11pm-1am, 2-4am

All times ET and subject to change.

**singing** I'm so spa-licious!



Ok, I admit that I JUST made that up, but its no less true. I went in for my facial this morning, and it was heavenly. My esthetician was a bit sadistic (apparently her favorite services are waxing and extraction), but she was still awesome. She is pretty new in the business (under a year), but she was very professional and really seemed to know a lot. Right now I feel refreshed and relaxed. I got a few samples to try out this week, so we'll see how my skin reacts. She got me to make an appt for 4 weeks from now, but in my defense I had already decided that I wanted to come back b4 she made her pitch ;-)



ANNND the overall facility was very nice. Our People came through. Its definitely a beauty salon that offers spa services (i.e. one small back room operates as the 'spa'). However, its a natural hair salon, so its nice to be back in the 'salon environment' w/women who share my same hair interests. Although its not a super spacious, tricked out spa, I felt very comfortable there. If I decide to try more extensive services (like some sort of wrap or milk bath), then I'll have to go to a back up location. However, for my facial and massage needs...I think this might be a match!

Flintstones anyone?

At this point, I think that most of us are old enough that we are taking some sort of daily multi-vitamin or supplement. It may be one quick chewable or a whole pack of horse pills. Either way, here is a brief breakdown of the essential vitamins and supplements to aid you in your fitness goals.

For Women

For Men

I refuse to complain.

I think that this will be my new mantra.

I'm healthy.
I have a great family.
I have great friends.
I have a good job.
I have had wonderful experiences.
I am SURE that many more great things are to come.

Life isn't perfect, but I refuse to focus on anything other than the blessings that are flowing down all over me.

So decorating...my home needs it.

As I was cleaning up last Saturday, I began looking around at my furniture. Four years ago I thought that my look was great. Most of my furniture was handed down from my parent's old home, but I was really pleased with the items that I received. I still am very grateful for them, but looking around it is very clear to me that an upgrade is needed. I mean...to be honest...my bedroom set is the same one that I had in the 6th grade, and my couch and coffee table are at least 8 - 10 yrs old.

It's time to start investing in a face lift. I've already begun heading down this road by making updates to my kitchen and bathroom. However, these were updates that I was making solely with the goal of increasing my home's value to eventually sell it. This is still a long-term goal of mine, but why not make it an awesome place to live in the meantime?

So hear is what I need to do...

Within the next year I would like to replace my stove and refrigerator with stainless steel appliances. I actually can go ahead and do this just as soon as I find a decent sale. I will probably make this a Labor Day or Christmas gift to myself.

I also would like to replace my couch and coffee table, my desk, and my bedroom set. Honestly I want to get rid of almost all of my furniture, but I will have to pace myself.

I want to paint my bedroom, living room, and maybe kitchen. I may paint the entire rooms, but most likely I will just paint one or two accent walls. I just want something to spice up the space.

Really long-term...I would like to have hardwood floors installed. Carpet and a pets are a huge No-No.

After that, there are just a few other non-essential updates that I would like to make...like a new TV in the living room ;-)

I'm going to try to post updates here as I find items that I like and purchase. Until then here are just a few pics to give you an idea of the feel that I will be going for.

Soooo...I booked my appointment at the spa, and I am all set to get a calming/sensitive skin facial this Saturday. I made the appt with a local black owned salon in an effort to try to give our ppl business... annnnd b/c they were about $30 cheaper than my 2nd choice. Hopefully everyone will act right, and it can be a relaxing and therapeutic experience. If not...then it's game over. My 2nd choice is owned by a Latina, so I won't feel too guilty bringing her business instead.

Ok...so I'm back from a lovely weekend in the Bahamas. I hung out with old friends, made new friends, and most important I got to celebrate the union of two people who love one another immensly.

Sooo...I know that you all are wondering what are the results of the 'Get it right, Git it tight' work out plan. Well feast your eyes...

Not bad, huh?

However, I DEFINITELY took full advantage of the all-inclusive package, so tomorrow we are starting the 'Keep it right, Keep it tight' workout plan. I hit up the grocery store this evening, so now I can start packing breakfast and lunch again. This should help to keep my eating and snacking under control.

I need one full night of sleep, so I won't be doing a 5:30 workout tomorrow morning. However, I do plan to start back up on Wednesday. The plan is to do morning yoga for the rest of the week and swim this weekend. Whew...well I can confidently say that I have made this change a way of life.

I don't usually do politics on this blog but...


ABSOLUTE.BULLSHIT!!!

I really don't know which I hate more...the fact that this drawing was created and published or the fact that some idiots in this nation will be swayed by it. I mean really, I thought that we had squashed this non-sense. Here is a quick rundown of why the New Yorker is getting a serious cuss out in my head right now...

1. After the Trinity United Church of CHRIST scandal how can we possibly still be accusing Obama of being Muslim?

2. Being Muslim does not equate to being a terrorist.

3. Refusing to bend over and kiss America's ass does not equate to being un-patriotic, hating the nation, or disrespecting the flag.

4. Michelle Obama doesn't even have natural hair. Clearly this is how they will always see us. AND AND AND natural hair isn't a freakin' insult.

5. They totally stepped on my favorite shot of 'Team Barack and Michelle Obama'...the fist pound.

6. Most importantly...people in this nation are tooo STUPID and PREJUDICED to realize that electing a Black president is one of the best things that this nation can do for its global image. Barack Obama is the best (most non-threatening...unless of course you're looking for a Clarence Thomas) Black man for the job. It's time to take our heads out of our asses and realize that "Hey, the rest of the world (even our allies) don't think that we're big shit. Most of them despise our ignorance and arrogance. If we don't fall back, take a serious look at who we are and what we stand for, and stop trying to pimp the rest of the world for our own advancement, then we're going to end up broken and ruined like so many nations before us." Obama may not be the answer to all of our problems, but as long as we stay locked in this short-sighted, race-based, change adverse, the rest of the world owes us mindset, then our sustainability as a nation is limited.

That.Is.All!

On my to do list... a visit to Fleet Feet Sports!

I've been hearing a lot about this place, but have yet to check it out. According to their website (and the word on the street), they custom size your foot and assess your gait in order to provide the best shoe fit possible. Now this may not be important for everyone, but it sure is to me.

I usually don't tell people this but...I have flat feet. I mean really flat feet. Like my ankles brush against one another and the alignment btwn my feet and knees is just wrong. What's the result? Lots of knee problems. Now I don't do to much exercising in shoes anymore (hooray for swimming and yoga!), but when I DO get out on the treadmill or track I'd like to have the right amount of support. Well this store is geared towards giving you just that. Here is the process that makes it all happen:

Step One: Welcome and Explanation of our Fitting Process
Every process has a beginning point, fitting our customers begins with “hello” and an explanation of the steps we take to fit you for the best shoe for your needs.

Step Two: Getting to Know You
We take time to ask questions about your current activity, such as how often you run, how far and if you have a goal in mind. We also discuss any existing or past injuries and talk about the footwear you currently use.

Step Three: Measurement
Several measurements of each foot help us determine proper sizing. We record both unweighted (seated) and weighted (standing) measurements.

We aren't doctors and don't pretend to be, but we will take a look at your feet for signs that will help us fit you properly and determine any special needs.

Step Four: Gait Analysis
We'll bring out a neutral “test” shoe and observe as you run or walk a short distance. This helps us understand how you move and the biomechanics of your gait.

Step Five: Fitting and Recommendations
Based on our findings we will bring out the shoes that may work best for you. We'll carefully inspect the fit and watch as you run or walk in each shoe. We'll discuss the options, provide you with our recommendations and answer any questions.

Step Six: The Decision
This one is all you since you are the only person who knows how the shoes actually feel.

Step Seven: Ready to Go
Now that you've made a decision, we'll talk about how to properly break in your new shoes, help with any other product needs you may have and make sure you're ready to get the best results!

I have heard that the prices are pretty comparable with your average Foot Locker/Champs' store, so I think that I'm going to check them out. They have locations all over the country, so check their website for a store near you!

I'm baaaaaaaack! Here are a few more quick updates.

On the professional development front, I have been talked into signing up for Toast Masters. If you aren't familiar with the organization, then the general gist is that they are a group of people geared towards increasing their public speaking capabilities. You sign up with a group of people and are required to make 12 speeches over a one or two year time period. You present in front of others in the group and they provide feedback on your speech. After you have completed your 12 speeches, then you are Toast Master certified, and hopefully a better speaker. Now I didn't really want to sign up b/c I tend to think that I am already a very good public speaker. However, practice never hurt anyone, and its been a while since I spoke in front of a group of complete strangers. I don't want to lose my touch ;-) I think that one of my speeches will be about blogging.

On a different note...my 1st event as co-chair of the African American Affinity Group has been canceled :-( Our sponsor gave us the thumbs down, which sucks. I guess it is back to the drawing board. Maybe we can do a 'Lunch and Learn' instead. We could ask a black partner to come and share his/her experiences on progressing through the firm. Hmmm...we shall see.

As for taking time for Me...I didn't get to go to the spa this weekend. My schedule just filled up, and I wanted to spend time with friends b4 the weekend was over. However, I am determined to make an appointment for a facial this weekend. As soon as the spas open, I am calling and booking.

Pics and more updates to come later.

Suuuuuuper quick updates...

So today I'm rocking a black and white dress w/sexy red patent leather pumps. The hair is braided back and swooped to the side, and I am looking like a model. Why you ask? Because I was born this way? Well that's only partially correct. The bigger reason is that I'm going to be in a photo shoot today! Many of you know that I participated in a mentorship program this year, and the firm is going to be taking photos of the mentors to document the program. I don't know if I'll end up on some sort of company-wide brochure or anything, but I am certainly prepared.

Yesterday I got to visit a Hindu temple. My co-worker invited me, and it was very cool. She took me around to all of the statutes of the deities and explained their purpose. Then she took a moment for quiet reflection/prayer at each one, while I browsed. It was a beautiful space, and I learned a lot. I definitely encourage you to learn about other religions. It's not a matter of weakening in your own faith, but rather gaining a respect for someone else's. I may not be a convert, but I am always glad to see someone else enjoy a relationship with a higher power, which gives them a sense of right/wrong/hope/love/justice/faith.

Lastly, I am off to the Bahamas tomorrow. I have done my very best at hanging w/the workout plan. I got a work out in everyday w/the exception of Friday and Sunday. The diet wasn't great, but I think that the body is looking JUST RIGHT. Pics to come! Overall, I'm looking forward to what I hope will be a relaxing and memorable weekend. I'll blog more when I return.

Ciao!

How do I feel today?

Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! Double Fuck! Triple Fuck! Quadruple Fuuuuuuuuuuccccccck!!!!

That. Is. All.

Gardasil concerns.

Now I know that there are all kinds of adverse reactions to new drugs, but hearing these occurrences after this drug was pushed upon the public is certainly concerning. Hopefully no other major side-effects are found.

Random comment...I must get the full DVD sets of my four favorite sitcoms of all time:

The Cosby Show
A Different World
The Golden Girls
Designing Women

Aaah, I can watch those re-runs again and again and again.

Grown up act #1 - Specify what brand of alcohol you prefer when ordering drinks at the bar. A hang over after only 3 drinks makes NO sense!

Life begins today!

These words came to mind while I was cleaning my house today. I was moving a perpetual calendar that my mother gave me...you know the kind...they are made up of blocks with months and numbers, but not years. You can forever arrange it into the correct month and day combination. Sorry, I have digressed. As I was moving the calendar, I looked at the date...my birthday. I pretty much never advance this thing except for on my birthday (and maybe one or two other special days out of the year). Today was really no different at all. I just felt like "What's the point?"

Now on a side note...as I was cleaning I was also going through a mental goals check. A while ago, I blogged about wanting to take myself and my life to a whole other level over the next 18 months. I think that now my motivation is a bit different, but the goal and timeline is still very valid. I'm ready to begin my adult life. Don't get me wrong...I'm not a wreck or anything like that, but I can be (and I want to be) better.

So needless to say...I figured Today is the Day! Why continue to wait? I think that for a long time I was waiting for some milestone to happen in my life to begin adopting certain grown up characteristics...turning 30, getting married, making manager. These are definitely all milestones that I have said to myself "Well I'll do XYZ when I (fill in the blank)." That's no way to live. I think that sometimes you have to grow and advance as a person to even make it to those milestones (except for turning 30...in that case you just have to...you know...stay alive).

Now its a bit difficult for me to articulate what exactly I want to accomplish. There are some clear ways that I can improve (like paying bills on time w/o fail and maintaining a cleaner home). However, its really just a shift in mindset. It's getting away from procrastinating and really focusing on becoming the Me that I envision myself being. It may be a matter of continuing to develop my cooking skills. It may be a matter of remodeling my home (a topic that I will post on next). It may be a matter of honing my personal style or focusing on growing my finances. Sorry if this all sounds a bit scatter brained :-) I just envision my life differently, and I am ready to begin living the life that I envisioned TODAY!

So suffice it to say that I set my blocks to July 5th to signal a new start. Of course, its scary b/c I don't want to flake out on myself, so I'll be blogging about the challenges that I take on and concur. Fun times.

Workout tips and recommendations.

Hey all. I've been browsing the internet, and I came across some great articles for exercising and getting into shape. Check them out!

For Women!

For Men!

Thursday afternoon funny...Meet Remmington Wallace!

Do you have a purpose in life?

This is one of those deep philosophical questions that some people spend their entire lives trying to find the answer to. At the same time, there are other people who know their purpose very early on and spend the rest of their lives working towards it.

I can't say that I feel that I have a particular calling or distinct purpose...at least not one that I have discovered. Things like giving back to my community and being a good Christian are high on my priority list, so I guess that the activities involved with those two goals are how I feel that I am making my mark on this earth. However, what I ultimately believe is that everything happens for a reason, and everything we do has a purpose. I like to think that all of the things (good and bad) that happen to me in life are for a reason and fit into some greater plan of good.

At the end of the day I don't really need to be famous or immortalized or talked about for decades to come. I will feel pleased if I am successful at maintaining and building upon my strong relationship with God, honoring myself (mentally, physically, and spiritually), being a good person (daughter, friend, employee, maybe wife/mother), giving something back to both those who've helped me along the way and those who do not know how to help themselves, and truly appreciating and enjoying the journey. If I am lucky enough to say that I accomplished those things, then I can say that I fulfilled my purpose in life. Luckily that list doesn't actually look too long or difficult ;-)

**singing** "Summer, Summer, Summertime!"

Aaaah, Will Smith you know just how to get the season started. While driving to work in the mornings I usually listen to the Steve Harvey Morning Show. Well all of this week they are in beautiful St. Thomas (U.S.V.I)! Let me tell you...hearing them interview the various island representatives got me so HYPED for the Bahamas!!! The mention of rum cake and snorkeling had me smiling and yearning for the tropics.

Plus plus plus...I went bikini shopping last night. I must say that the situation was not bad a'tall. After 2 solid weeks of working out...the body is going to be bananas. They aren't even ready for what I'm about to be doing!

So let's recap...we're starting of w/uber fine ME! + 2 new hott bikinis + all the alcohol that I can consume (prepaid & you know that I don't have any hangups about what time of the day I can drink) + beautiful setting + great friends = 1 hell of an awesome getaway!