Step your game up, family!

Don't you love when you speak on a topic and then someone else comes and mentions the same topic in a different venue? You can't help but to say, "I was JUST saying that same thing." I don't know...there is a certain bit of validation to the whole thing.

Anyway, I was just mentioning to T that Barack Obama has set a whole new standard for Black Men in the US. I mean, who doesn't want a Barack of their own? He doesn't have to be President, but certainly that eloquence, that vision, that strength and yet tenderness are what every woman seeks in a man. Well...let me be real, some folks are looking for a brotha w/nothing less than a mouthful of gold teeth and a pocket full of rocks (which reminds me that I need to pick up Sister Souljah's sequel to The Coldest Winter Ever). However, most sistahs would like a Barack-Jason/Kyle/Dante of their own. T, of course, wisely reminded me that Michelle has also raised the bar for Black Women. I mean what man doesn't want a woman who is accomplished, beautiful, and supportive?

Soooo...while I'm driving to work this morning I hear "The Commentator" segment on the Tom Joyner Morning Show. Jeff Johnson was commenting that Barack (and Michelle) provides another positive example for our community, and in this case, one that must be followed and reported by the main stream media. Yes, we have had the Rev Run & Justines or even the Mariah Carey and Nick Cannons, but in all honesty...most married Black couples just fade to black when it comes to being shown on television. I mean if we aren't dancing, singing, or palming a basketball, then you simply don't see us. However, here is an example of a couple that is successful and focused, yet still make time for one another and their family.

Jeff commented that Barack had taken Michelle out on a date this past Saturday night, and then took the kids to school on Monday b4 heading off to the White House. Now, let's not make the man more than what he is...but certainly some ppl are starting to take note. Barack inspires other men to want to be like him. Guys who were happy to play house now wonder if it's time to seal the deal w/a ring. Guys who played the part-time dad role now wonder if they can carve out a few more hours/week to be more present in their child's life. Perhaps even sisters see a way to balance their roles both at home and in the work place...and see the love and dignity in the role of wife/help meet, rather than the 2nd class citizenry or dreams deferred that we've been pushing back against for the last few decades. Most ppl know that I am pro-marriage and pro-family, so its just good to see images of black husbands, wives, fathers, and mothers that our ppl can emulate.

Anywho...I could not find a link to the segment, but it was the 11/11/08 segment of The Commentator feat. Jeff Johnson on the Tom Joyner Morning Show, if you are interested in looking. Also, here is Jeff's website (he also hosts The Truth on BET), if you'd like to hear more from him.

This morning I got to thinking about the mental health crisis in the Black community, or maybe I should simply say the perception of mental disease within the Black community. This seems to be one of our most taboo topics...right up there with homosexuality and corrupt preachers. I mean, when was the last time that your mother, brother, sister, cousin, friend told you that they were heading out to their weekly therapy session? That has never been 'for us', right?

The thought process has always gone something like this..."We don't get depressed/bi-polar/OCD/etc. We sisters have been working hard (sometimes 2 and 3 jobs at a time) to provide for our families and make ends meet. We brothers have been hustling and suffering one indignity after another in order to put food on the table. This is what we do. We don't whine or cry about our situations. We are strong, and we survive." Right?

Well have we really been surviving, or have we just been ignoring rather than treating the symptoms of our suffering...alcoholism, drug abuse, sexual promiscuity, on-going sadness... If you think about it, there are many vices that we have come to accept and live with, but have never delved further into their root cause. Perhaps some of these burdens that we bear are rooted in the stifling rather than treatment of our personal demons.

While reading this article, I was struck by the role of the Church in all of this. This is something that I have questioned on my own, so it really stood out to me. As a 'good Christian' I believe that God can heal and deliver us from anything. Yet where is the barrier btwn something that is a normal human reaction/feeling and the 'Enemy trying to steal your joy/faith/hope'. I don't think that it is truly uncommon to hear the pastor say feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anger, and hurt are the tools of the devil. If that's what you're taught to believe, then how could you ever think to pursue help from the medical profession? No, you would simply pray harder and wait for deliverance. Anybody ever seen the Exorcism of Emily Rose?

In the end...I really believe that it comes down to a balance between the two worlds (medical and religious). Yes, I believe that ministers should counsel and pray for their congregation. However, I also believe that they should encourage individuals to seek professional help when/if their symptoms do not change. There is so much shame associated with seeking 'professional help', as if one is weak or faithless. As long as we keep re-enforcing these beliefs, then our community will continue to be disproportionately affected by mental disease.

Here is a panel discussion on this issue, to which I confess that I have not yet been able to listen. However, it seems to have some quality speakers, so I'm going to link it for future reference.

Part 1
Part 2

And now back to our regularly scheduled programming...

I found a new vitamin to try...it's essentially the same as the one above excepts it's the Vitamin World generic brand...also made by New Chapter Organics. It was still a bit more than I wanted to spend...about $40 for a 90 day supply. However, I decided to give it a go b/c as an organic blend it is supposed to break down easier and faster within your body.

So what's the report so far...? I don't know yet. I took the 1st one on Tuesday, but I was sooo hyped about the election that I was full of energy. On Wednesday I was exhausted from the 5 hours of sleep that I got, so that's also kind of a bust. Today I'm back to normal, and I do feel some fatigue. I worked out at 5 (my 3rd workout for the week...gotta finish strong tomorrow and Sat.). However, I'm not exhausted (i.e. thinking to myself 'I'm sooo tired' every 5 mins), so maybe it is doing me some good. I'm committed to taking one everyday for the next 90 days...3 months, and after that I'll make a determination on whether or not it is worthwhile to 're-up' or not.

I've posted the nutritional info below as an FYI:

Probiotic Nutrients *		%DV
Vitamin C *	60 mg	100%
Vitamin D *	400 IU	100%
Vitamin E *	30 IU	100%
Vitamin K *	80 mcg	100%
Thiamin-Vitamin B1 *	2 mg	100%
Riboflavin-Vitamin B2 *	2 mg	100%
Niacin *	20 mg	100%
Vitamin B6 *	2 mg	100%
Folate *	800 mcg	200%
Vitamin B12 *	12 mcg	200%
Biotin *	150 mcg	50%
Pantothenic Acid *	10 mg	100%
Calcium *	10 mg	1%
Iron *	3 mg	16%
Iodine *	75 mcg	50%
Zinc *	8 mg	53%
Selenium *	50 mcg	71%
Copper *	1.5 mg	75%
Manganese *	1 mg	50%
Chromium *	60 mcg	50%
Molybdenum *	40 mcg	53%
Potassium *	1 mg	<1%>

Yes We Did!

Yes We Did!

Yes We Did!

Today is the day. You know what to do. VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!

I'm sooooo happy right now! I don't know if it's election eve, the warmth of having my dad in town, this vitamin that I just chased with a glass of wine, the powerful Woman's Day sermon that I just heard, or the on-set of that special time of the month, but I am just so positive and enthusiastic for what lay ahead. I wish that I could inspire all of you with the hope and strength that I feel right now. Life is all about your state of mind. Are you going to let the hard times weigh and knock you down? Or will you press on with grace, dignity, faith, and a spirit of expectation of something better? I think that I will aim for the latter.

Let me, let me upgrade ya!!

I think I mentioned that my tv went out at the end of September. I finally got it replaced, and I'm sooooo excited. Check me out!

Soooo...I've been meaning to blog about vitamins for the last two days. However, the internet has not turned up the kind of info that I can easily use. I search for a bit, and then get busy with real work...search for a bit more, and then get busy once again.

However, the gist of it all is this...I'm tired A LOT of the time. It could be b/c I get up at 5 in the morning several days a week or that it's busy season. However, in reality I am tired at work quite often...even when I get more than enough sleep. Possibly it is boredom, but I am thinking that a good multi-vitamin would help. I was recently on a message board where a number of posters commented that when they were going through periods of heavy fatigue it was b/c they were lacking in iron. After getting on a regular vitamin schedule, then they were back in action. I'm going to give it a try.

In other news...I met w/my partner/mentor last night, and I have a pretty good plan for advancing my career in the short term.

Step A...Identify the 'priority' accounts and work with the scheduler and partners to get on them.

Step B...Schedule a lunch meeting w/my coordinating partner to discuss assisting him with some of his 'pet projects' w/a follow up discussion on my goals.

Step C...Build a relationship w/a key snr. manager who is quickly progressing through the ranks. That will prob kick off w/a lunch meeting next month.

Step D...Identify an area of specialty, which should arise from my conversations in steps B and C.

Sound good?

Goals Update!!

Just a quick update on how I've been doing on reaching my professional goals. Last week was quite a busy week for me, which was a good thing. Even though I was completely exhausted by Friday night...I was pleased to see that I am making headway in achieving the goals that I have set for myself.

On the prof. networking side, I've been actively attending NABA events. I participated in a resume critique workshop for our student chapters, a membership reception, and last week I went to a wine tasting. All were good events, and I am getting to know some of the 'regulars'. It was a bit uncomfortable at 1st b/c I didn't really know anyone...and it seemed like everyone else knew one another. However, I'm slowly but surely easing into the social circle. I am also now on the PR committee. Basically, I help update our website, which has a user-friendly GUI. However, I am also coming with ideas on how to enhance and revamp the website so that it is more useful to our members. I'll probably even tap Tea for some advice on how to send out press releases regarding our larger scale activities (community service, student relations, etc).

On the work side...there are two sides to this coin. On the one hand, I am making a lot of headway as the co-chair of our affinity group. We've been regularly sending out good communications to our members, so our name is getting out there. I've gotten ppl to volunteer for several of our firms initiatives with a local inner city high school, which means a great great deal to me (There are so few Black ppl at the firm that I really feel that our presence is invaluable in efforts to re-direct the lives/futures of Black children). We sent out welcome and congratulations packets to all of our new hires and promotees. Most important I hosted our 1st general meeting. There were about 25 attendees which made for an active discussion and an enjoyable happy hour. We weren't able to stay on the agenda, BUT the meeting had lots of interaction and great talking points. One thing that I need to continue to work on is making myself (and my co-chair) more visible to the office leadership. This is a great stepping stone, so ppl need to see our success.

On the other hand, things have been rough for folks in my actual practice. Several ppl were laid off last week, which wasn't an easy thing to deal handle. Thank God, I wasn't one of those ppl. However, I am still struggling with how to really distinguish myself as an invaluable member of the practice. I don't really have a particular area of expertise, which worries me. I think about this all the time, and I'm really hoping to come up with a clear strategy sooner rather than later. I am having dinner with a partner tomorrow night to discuss exactly this issue. Hopefully I will come away with an action plan in place.

So overall...not so bad. I think that I am on-track to advance my career, but I just need to find away to place myself in the 'fast lane'. In this economy...just 'on-track' isn't good enough.

How are things going for everyone else?

What do you do to stay relevant at your job?

Yesterday's Quote of the Day!

"We gonna start the bidding on this b!t@h at $2. Anybody wanna b!t@h? Anybody wanna b!t@h?"

- NeNe...Real Housewives of Atlanta

Barack Obama/Joe Biden...that's how the ballot read.

I went out and early voted this weekend, and I must admit...I was one of those ppl who welled up just a bit when I checked the box for the 1st Black Presidential Nominee. There was no real pomp and circumstance on the actual ballot...just a simple 'Obama/Biden'. However, I felt that I was performing one of the most important tasks in my life. I just feel so proud, and I can't explain it. I'm not his mom, nor his campaign manager, nor his wife. Certainly his success is not attributed to me. Yet, I am so proud to see him representing you and me with such grace and poise. I am excited, hopeful, and motivated for the next 8 years in this country's history. I can't wait for Nov 4th!!!! I am truly truly praying that his presidency is ground breaking, transformational, successful, and the start of a new direction for our nation.

If you haven't voted yet, then remember to cast your ballot by Tuesday, Nov 4th. If you've never believed in the political process, then this is the time to give it a try. Never before has there been so much promise for a presidency. Get involved! Make your voice heard! Something tells me that you will not regret this decision.

Go Obama/Biden 2008!!

Soooo...I'm going to be putting my cutie-pie kitty up for adoption soon. I love her, but she just can't live with me any more.

*Le sigh* Where to start? The biggest issue is that I simply don't have time for a pet right now. I work 10 or 11 hours/day, and with an hour commute each way this leaves me with only about 2 or 3 hours to spend with her each day...and much of that time is spent getting ready for the following day. If you know anything about cats, then you know experiences like this can lead to anxiety, which leads to...acting out. It's the acting out that is really driving me crazy. After two years of doing just about everything that I can think of to 'cat proof' my home, I realized yesterday evening that I am living in a prison. She has free reign, while my life and I are confined to the few safe havens that I have carved out. This cannot continue.

However, I just hate the thought of 'sending her away'. She was/is my responsibility, and the idea that I have failed her kills me. Plus she is always a friendly face to come home to. She's sweet and lovable...just a little too mischievous. Anywho, I will definitely miss her when she is gone, and if anyone is looking for a new best friend, then let me know. With the right amount of love and attention, she's an angel.

Shout out to my Girl!!

I love this post from my girl, Kismet. I am not a writer, no a historian...yet we all play a role in the story that will become the history of tomorrow and the day after.

In particular, this paragraph caught my attention the most:

"Ellison emphasizes the individual as an artist, the individual as a person (man) of color growing and creating in this world. As a woman of color that doesn't apply to me. It doesn't apply to the women I am researching, women who survived slavery not by standing alone in their unique experience but because they drew on networks and knowledge of their mothers, aunts, and sisters (and fathers, brothers, and lovers) before them. And alongside them. And passed those resources on, which were worth more than money, because a wealth in people* replenishes itself."

Check out the whole post and think for a moment on your 'role'. I hope that while I have no intentions of changing the world...I am surely changing the lives of those around me for the better.

Trade up to healthier treats

Women (and Men) cannot live on carrots alone. And why should we? Even the most dedicated dieters crave the occasional doughnut, burger or cookie. The truth is, you should indulge from time to time. Ignoring your urges will only set you up for overeating later. So swap your favorite high-calorie goodies for the bites below; they are equally tasty but better for you. Go on—give in without undoing your diet. No guilt!

Read the rest of the article by Heather Jones, RD here.

(Elsheba Khan at the grave of her son, Specialist Kareem Rashad Sultan Khan.)

Most of you know that Senator Barack Obama was recently endorsed to become the next POTUS by Gen. Colin Powell. The pic above was mentioned in his interview on Meet The Press, and it think that it is quite profound. I just wanted to share it with all of you.

It was the best of times...it was the worst of times...you know the rest.

I was reflecting on how the year 2008 has progressed, and that was the 1st sentence that came to mind. If nothing else, I can say that this year has been transformational. My life is different and so am I.

I started out the year by proving to myself that I can be disciplined and strong-willed during the Biggest Loser competition. Although I had previously lost weight, I showed myself that I could stand on my own, stick to my commitment, and push through a tough time. Moreso than the actual weightloss...the experience really changed me.

Then I visited a new country and continent, which was truly amazing. I once heard someone say that the world is like a book, and without traveling it is as though you never turn the pages. Well I turned to a new chapter with this trip. It was exciting, scary, educational, and of course tons of fun. I'll never forget it, and I've got a hunger for more! Go Paris 2009!

On the other hand...my personal life went in a whole new direction, and my car has given me never-ending problems. *Le Sigh* Q3 has been rough. However, I think that I have grown and gained a new level of inner strength, faith, and maturity. Besides, it's not good to think of a period in your life as 'all bad', so we'll just say that the last few months have provided me with a wonderful and exciting opportunity to develop into a better person...and I think that I have. Score one point for me!

Anyway...there are two months left in the year, and I'm confident that they will be great! We are going to elect the 1st Black President of the United States and then we can celebrate with the holidays (a time to give thanks and enjoy family...and of course, food). What could be better!

I say all of this to say...2008 is almost gone. Take a moment to reflect. Have you met your goals? Are you pleased with the progress? If not, then there are two months left to get it together. Don't wait until the new year to get things back on track. Get moving RIGHT NOW! There is no reason to not end every year with a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment :-)

WHAT THE FUCK IS HAPPENING IN MY LIFE!!!!!

How can the freaking car be vandalized twice in one month. I need deliverance!!!!!!!!!

I know there are only 16 days left, but if you need a mini-pick me up, then checkout one of the many spa services being offered at discounted prices for breast cancer awareness month. It won't be the 'full monty', but maybe a quick 30 mins is all that you need to re-set your clock. View deals taking place in your city here.

Today I am conflicted.

On the one hand I am my usual optimistic self. I smile when I think about how blessed I am right now...can we say Y'amen to having a job in this economy? I laugh when I think about some of the great memories and experiences that I've had. (I hear that memories and experiences are what really matter at the end of it all.) Most important, I hope when I think about the possibilities for my future. Who knows what lies ahead? I don't but it could be anything wonderful...better than you every hoped for, and that's exciting!

I focus on being a good person, living up to my beliefs/principles, and being able to love and be proud of who I am. Even when I fall short of this, I am happy that tomorrow is another day and a new opportunity to achieve my goals.

So here's the conflict...I am tired :-( Not just 'I need sleep' tired, though that is also true, but rather the 'stuck in a rut...not being fulfilled' tired. Yesterday I got up at 5 to work out (hated it!), spent 12 hours at work (hated it!), returned home/packed lunch/got ready for bed/asleep by 9:30...soooo that I could wake up at 5 this morning and begin the cycle again. At the end of yesterday, I felt that I had done nothing with my day to make me happy. I know this is partially due to busy season (normally I am home around 7 and can read or chat on the phone in the evening), however it was still disheartening to give every minute of your day to your 'obligations' rather than your pleasures.

I'm not sure what the solution is right now. I've made some adjustments (working out on Sat, so that I only have to get up early 3 days out of the week/ making a concerted effort to only work 10 hours at least 2 days a week), so I am waiting for those to pay off. Until then I guess I have to grit my teeth and bare it through the rest of the season. Busy season ends at Thanksgiving, so it'll be nice to have my schedule free up during a time of celebration. Plus, there's always shopping to make me happy (and bwoy does it make me happy!)...and planning vacation. Tea, what's good for your b-day? You might want to try something smaller (4 ppl max) to minimize planning efforts. On that note...I'm off to look up group trips to Paris!

Well, I weighed in this morning, and I'm still at 177lbs. Meh. I'm not really phased by this, though. I stayed on my exercise schedule and ate properly last week. There are some things that I can do better this week, but ultimately...I felt that last week was a good snapshot of how my life should be. Regular exercise, and smart food choices (not counting calories or longing for every sweet that passes me by).

PLUS, I read an advertisement over the weekend that said "Sexy is...liking who you are." I'd have to agree with that...we've all seen that completely WACK girl who has so much confidence, that she has tricked everyone else into thinking that she's fly. Well, I'm not into trickery, but I do think there is a bit of sensuousness about a woman who loves what she has going on and expects you to love it too. So, while I really felt that I 'had it going on' at 160 lbs, my main goal is to stay on an exercise schedule and eat wisely. After that, I'm cool with wherever my body takes me.


Now on to other things...vacation...where should I go this year? There is a chance that I will be traveling alone, so I don't really want to leave the country this go round. I want to do something fun and enjoyable (but not necessarily meant for two or more ppl). A friend took a trip along the California coast last year...that's an option. You can roll out solo, enjoy the beautiful scenery, visit some new cities, and use the experience as an opportunity for self-reflection. Not a bad get away.



I am also thinking of maybe trying to find a spa, but I have a feeling that trips like those are for the ballers. However, if I could afford it, then I could spend a couple of days in complete relaxation, self-reflection, meditation, and let's not forget SHOPPING. Any other ideas?

This is how I feel today, so I want to share the smile with all of you. It's a beautiful day, I discovered these amazing pics of my sister-friend, and the future (whatever it may hold) is shining brightly. Isn't that great!

Yes, I did just come back from celebrating a co-worker's birthday at Chuck E. Cheese. It was just as awesomely great as it ever was. I feel NO embarrassment at having to call ahead of time to confirm that there are no rules against 16 adults and no kids.

Ok...back on topic. I did yoga on Monday and swam on Tuesday. This has been a long week, causing me to sleep in on Wed and Thursday, so I will need to do yoga tomorrow and swim Saturday in order to finish strong. The eating has been right on track (except for Chuck E. Cheese)...I've stayed away from the snack box, only ate when I was actually hungry, and chose low-cal/low-fat options. If I can keep this up, then I will be back on the right path. I am grocery shopping on Sat, so I can begin preparing meals for lunch and dinner. I'm also going to try my raw food recipe below, but I must admit that I am not very excited about it. We will see how it goes.

Lastly, I came across this article on Work/Life Balance, that I wanted to share. As I noted, this has been a long week for me, so I'm going to try to utilize a few of the five tips discussed below.

1. Figure Out What Really Matters to You in Life

2. Drop Unnecessary Activities

3. Protect Your Private Time

4. Accept Help to Balance Your Life

5. Plan Fun and Relaxation

Check out the entire article on WebMD.com for further explanation.

Aaaahhhh, food...how I love thee!

But like all great love affairs...sometimes it's just not good for you. The trick is to be able to discern those high quality, healthy options that leave you feeling satisfied and guilt-free. Now, if you're like me, then you aren't really one for cooking...sorry, I keep trying, but it hasn't panned out yet. Therefore, I eat out or on the go quite often. This makes it even harder to find a good healthy meal. Here are some tips on what to avoid and what to order at your favorite restaurants.

CHINESE

What to avoid: Sweet-and-sour pork or chicken. Those dough boys are little more than tiny bits of meat encased in greasy gobs of fat and sugar. Moo shu pork and egg rolls are also alarmingly high in calories.

What to order: Anything sautèed, or in garlic or Szechwan sauce. Beef and broccoli and chicken chow mein are also clear winners. To make 'em better, order steamed veggies and mix them together.

GREEK

What to avoid: Stuffed grape leaves, spinach pie, and moussaka. Even a small serving of these dishes has more calories than your standard fast-food fare. Gyros aren't much better — most are drowned in mayonnaise-like sauce.

What to order: Meat and veggies on a skewer (souvlaki or kebabs, depending on the menu). Lamb or pork are decent choices, but in most cases chicken and steak are better (since the meat is grilled, most of the excess fat and calories drain away).

INDIAN

What to avoid: Foods with massala, pasanda, or korma in their name. All are types of fat-laden, super-spicy entrees. One serving of lamb pasanda, for example, contains nearly 1,000 calories, 56 grams of fat, and 4,800 mg of sodium.

What to order: Grilled or roasted dishes, such as tandoori chicken — marinated chicken cooked at a very high temperature. Or pick vegetable dishes, such as aloo gobi or vegetable curry, which are both high in fiber and vitamins.

ITALIAN

What to avoid: Fettuccine Alfredo, obviously. Say ciao, as well, to other calorie-dense chow like cheese ravioli, manicotti, and eggplant parmigiana. Sure, the last item is vegetable-based, but that eggplant soaks up oil and grease like a sponge, making it one of the very worst things on any Mom and Pop menu.

What to order: Spaghetti or ziti, with either marinara or clam sauce. To get your protein fix, order a meatball or two on the side, rather than "meat sauce," which has significantly less meat. If the portion is huge — covering more than half your plate — wrap it up and take it home for later.

JAPANESE

What to avoid: Turn up your chops to all batter-dipped and fried foods, especially tempura and spider rolls. High-fat foods, such as duck and eel, are also high-calorie no-nos.

What to order: Tuna, cucumber, and California sushi rolls all deliver the right nutritional punch. Plus, they come in set portions, so you don't have to worry about overeating.

MEXICAN

What to avoid: Chimichangas, enchiladas, or anything fried or drenched in sauce or cheese — which can more than triple your meal's calorie wallop. Also steer clear of jean-bursting sides, like refried beans, rice, or nacho with cheese.

What to order: Simple a la carte items made with whole ingredients, such as beans, chicken, steak, and salsa. Burritos, fajitas, and small taco salads are ideal picks. Choose guacamole over cheese or sour cream — it has more vitamins and heart-healthy fats.

Article from Men's Fitness.

Well I haven't had to hit the road in quite a while, but I know that there are many of you hopping on and off of planes each week. As I was checking out CNN's travel site, I came across this resource page that I hope might do some of you a bit of good. Hope that you find the info helpful.

Register to vote TODAY!!!

If you need info on how and where to register or vote, then check out www.voteforchange.com.

I have a confession. I knew that the snacking and unhealthy eating that I've been doing was having an effect on my body. My tummy has been poking and my slacks have been snugger. However, I had been avoiding the scale and promising to do better the next day. Well, this morning I decided to commit to a fresh start with my healthy life-style. In order to do this, then I had to face the music...or shall we say, the numbers. I climbed on and weighed in at 177lbs.

Now some of you may remember that this is only 2 lbs less than when we began the Biggest Loser challenge 10 months ago, and a far cry from the 153 lb at which I ended the competition 7 months ago. How do I feel about this? Of course, I'm sad and disappointed that I undid soooo much of my hard work. I really LOVED my body at the time, and I cannot say the same right now. However, I do feel a bit encouraged. Despite the weight gain my new clothes still fit (though a bit tighter) and my old clothes are still loose). Plus, I am already working out regularly, so I don't have to begin a new regimen. Most important, I already know that I can lose weight, so this doesn't seem like such an insurmountable challenge.

I guess I just wish that I had done a better job with maintaining my weight. I'm kinda tired of being on a 'weight-loss' campaign. I just want to be at my goal or 'happy weight' and stay there. I guess I'll be doing some research on how to maintain weight loss, so be on the lookout for that. In the mean-time, I am back off of sweets and greasy foods. The goal weight is 160 lbs, which is where I was most pleased during the biggest loser. I am mostly focused on losing weight consistently and healthily until I reach my goal weight. However, if I had to set a time line it would be 160 lbs by Christmas. I'll be posting weekly updates to keep myself in check.

Don't worry...the blog is not going back to all weight loss all the time. I kinda like the diversity that I've brought into it, so I'll keep trying to post info that betters us mentally, spiritually, and physically.

You know you want it raw...

LOL! Get your mind out of the gutter ppl. I DID NOT mean it like that. What I mean is you want to eat it raw...ummm...I mean food, you want to try a raw food diet. Whew!

I have heard quite a bit about individuals who only eat raw foods...uncooked, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and sprouted grains. I myself haven't really pursued this lifestyle myself...beyond a salad. However, a few months ago a good friend of mine posted that she was giving raw a try. I meant to speak on this here, but the topic slipped away from me.

I have found that this diet can be very healthful, and I wanted to share some of the facts. Allisa Cohen is a raw foods advocate, and here is some of the information that I found on her website:

-"When food is cooked at over 112 degrees (this temperature can be felt as warm to the touch) we destroy all of its enzymes. This is a problem because we need enzymes for every function in our body. To walk, to talk, to breathe and to move; life itself depends on them. As we age, our bodies natural source of enzymes becomes depleted and we need to replenish this source through the foods we eat. If we do not do this and we continue to eat cooked foods, then we eventually begin to use up our body’s enzyme reserves. Cooking makes it harder for our bodies to break up and digest the foods that we eat. This food then begins to get stored in our bodies as toxins; which can lead to all kinds of diseases and illness."

- "There are numerous benefits to eating a raw and living food diet. Some of these benefits include people healing themselves of diabetes, fibromyalgia, acne, migraines, back pain, neck and joint pain, asthma, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, hypoglycemia, colitis, diverticulitis, Candida, arthritis, serious allergies, depression, anxiety, mood swings, heartburn, gas, bloating, skin diseases, obesity, chronic fatigue, cancers and many more. Excess weight seems to just melt off your body when you eat a raw and living food diet! The raw and living food diet has helped many people feel better when nothing else has worked."

Sooo...in the spirit of giving things the old college try...I am going to prepare a raw meal. Here is what I have selected. Raw walnut tacos:

The shell will be a fresh leaf of romaine lettuce.

The 'meat' filling is as follows:

• 1½ cups raw walnuts, ground in food processor
• 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
• ¾ teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons Nama Shoyu or Braggs
• pinch cayenne

The cheese topping is as follows:

• 1 cup raw cashews, sunflower seeds or almonds
• ½ large red bell pepper
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon tahini
• 1½ teaspoons sea salt
• 1 clove garlic
• 2 teaspoons onion powder (or a small slice of onion or 1 Tbsp of green onion)

I'm going to top it with a bit of Pico de Gallo:

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quarterd - depending on size
• ½ small yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup cilantro, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
• ¾ teaspoon ground corriander
• ¾ teaspoon celtic sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne
• 1 tablespoon cold pressed olive oil (optional)

I'll let you know how it comes out. For more info on living raw.. try Alissa Cohen's website or Raw Food Talk.

Waking up feeling grateful and excited for living another year longer = a nice morning boost

Coming outside to find my car window broken and my vehicle vandalized = an unquantifiable blow

Dry cleaning for my white suit after my tears caused my make-up to run all over it = $30

Replacement window = $100

Value of the items stolen = $700

Car wash and vacuum = $19

My goofy azz driving down the expressway to the repair shop w/the heat blasting and mistakenly trying to roll the damn window up to keep in the warmth = PRICELESS

On a serious note: The value of loving parents to call, co-workers who are understanding, friends who have your back, dranking to look forward to, an impromptu day off, and a never-ending hope that tomorrow will be better = Priceless!

Life's interesting turn of events...


2 pm - Find out that my car needs $1100 worth of maintenance :-(

8 pm - Pay $1100 worth of maintenance fees and get to head home after 6 hours of waiting :-(

9 pm - Receive notification of stimulus check's impending arrival :-)

9:15 pm - Do the 'Glory Hallelujah' happy dance :-)

9:30 pm - Television screen turns green and goes blank...no more living room tv :-(


I guess its time for another 'positive' to happen, huh?

On a happy note...hooray for a possible new TV...time to upgrade. Plus in just a few more hours...HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MEEEEE!!!

TV Debut!!!

Ok - well not my TV debut, but my good friend Tiffany was recently featured on the Rachel Ray show. Check her out!!

Rach to the Rescue Hits Chicago

Sooo...this pretty much describes the way that I feel getting up on any given morning that I have to work. I know that I'm not the only one :-) However, in the spirit of keeping it positive I have been trying to smile and come up with ways to be more excited about the one activity that we spend the majority of our lives doing...working. Here is a quick list of ways to motivate yourself on the job. They may seem kinda corny, but if they save you from a) cussing someone out, b) slamming the door in someone's face, or c) openly drinking in the middle of the day, then they are probably worth it. Check it out..

Motivation At Work: How To Recharge Your Work Mojo

By Lyndsay Swinton

Austin Powers, the fictional movie spy said,

“I'll go back to the 60's, recharge my mojo to beat Dr. Evil and be back in time for tea."

If it was only that easy to regain your motivation at work! Sometimes your work mojo gets so low you think it’s abandoned you forever. Here are five ideas on how to recharge your work mojo and fire up your work motivation.

Five ways to max-up your motivation at work

(Definition – mojo (mowjow) – magic charm or spell.)

1. Keep your ambition in check

The desire to work hard is strong when the incentive to impress and prove yourself is high. However, mismanaged ambition will erode your passion to work hard and burn you out.

Manage your ambition by being smart about whom you impress and how you impress them. Balance effort with payback by making sure your actions are low effort to you and high value to them.

2. Find out how to get from A to B

Fuzzy, unclear goals are a major drain on work motivation. Force your boss to delegate not abdicate work. Get clarity on how to get from A to B, and when. What exactly is the expected end result? Is this achievable? Do you need help?

Planning your route in advance will keep your work juices flowing.

3. Get experience

Who do you aspire to be like? Do you think they know how to do everything themselves?

If you don’t know how to do something, find someone who does and copy him or her. Use all resources to hand – websites, books, colleagues, relations, friends, TV characters, and professionals. Save time and learn from their mistakes, not yours.

Or better still, get someone else to do it.

4. Set boundaries

If the work is taking too long, you’re either doing too much or not doing it right. And wait a minute – was it your job in the first place? Whether you take work upon yourself or have it dropped from a great height, set boundaries in your work life.

Be strict about when you arrive and when you leave work, and all the breaks your body needs in between. Be strict about time to build relationships and time to work and time for all the important stuff in your work life.

Be strict about what is and isn’t your job. We’re all one great big team at work, so make sure the ball is passed around ALL players. You can’t be player of the match every game.

5. Push your limits

Sometimes we get so busy nurturing and developing others, we forget to develop our own skills.

Treat your own development like you would treat your team's or friend’s or partner's. Take time to discover what you want to do with your life and plan your personal development.

Use these tips to regain your motivation at work - recharge your work mojo, beat Dr Evil and be home in time for tea!

By Lyndsay Swinton
Owner, Management for the Rest of Us
www.mftrou.com

P.S. If your motivation at work and mojo is just exhausted, check out these stress management techniques!

Quick mid-morning WTF?

Sooooo...one of my new staff...I mean one step above intern/breast milk still on your breath brand new...had the nerve to comment that we were wasting his time by having him to drive to the burbs when there isn't much work to do. Now mind you ...we all get paid by the mile, which for me comes out to about an add'l $130 per week, AND he still gets his salary and his utilization whether he is actually doing work or not. You already know that I am giving him the side-eye at this point.

I go ahead and intentionally assign him two add'l tasks to keep him busy...hopefully very busy, and this M*!her F*@ker re-assigns the work to another new staff w/o asking or telling. WTF!!!

**singing** "It's been a long time, I shouldn't a left you (left you) w/o a dope crunch to test you (test you...)"

Yeah I know that was really corny, but whatever. The point is that it's been a minute since, I've discussed health or fitness on my 'health and fitness' blog. Truth be told, I really don't have time to 'discuss' it right now. However I did spend a bit of time looking up newer and better workouts. I know that some of you are interested in toning and bulking up...so I've got a nice article on the 'get it right, get it tight' abs work out. On the other hand, there are some of you looking for more of an all around workout that you can do...in a short amount of time or perhaps at the house. I got you! Check 'em out, and let me know how it goes.

For Women
For Men

Ok - last post of the day...promise.

I just want to say that right now I feel like work is SPINNING OUT OF CONTROL. I MUST work this weekend b/c that is the only time that I can focus on 1 complete task at a time w/o a bazillion other tasks popping up and interrupting me...(emails, questions, status updates, etc). If I can just make it through the next 6 hours, then I am home free to get a better hold of the reins.

Whew!

In other less exciting news...this has been a loooong week. My spirits are lifted, but I'm not 100% sure how I will manage until Thanksgiving.

I missed today's AM workout b/c I was up until around mid-night trying to get some work completed before this morning. I'm hoping to get home by around 6 - 6:30, so that I can squeeze it in tonight and still have time to chill. I am doing a 5K AIDS walk tomorrow, so that will be my last bit of cardio for the week.

I found a cheap flight home to visit the fam next weekend, and I was able to finalize my plans for my b-day celebration the weekend following. Sooo...I've got quite a bit to look forward to!

Lastly, on the goals piece...I went to a NABA Membership Reception last night, and was asked to volunteer on the PR committee. They want me to help maintain the website, which I know nothing about. However, the lady who was previously responsible for this position knows even less that I do, and she was able to manage...I think I'll be alright. The important part is that I'm getting out more and expanding my professional network.

Also, I'm playing golf this weekend w/an old high school buddy. My game is weak weak weak, but we're going to a course that is usually pretty empty. Hopefully there won't be a team of ppl right behind us waiting to play each hole. The golf scramble that I attended last week showed that I have a long way to go. However, I haven't completely forgotten everything that I learned in college. We'll see how it goes :-)

Have a great Friday, everyone!

Let me, let me upgrade ya...upgrade ya!!!

A sistah finally placed the order for the new camera. I didn't get to use my Best Buy hookup, but I found the camera that I wanted for $100 less that the BB advertised price...from the vendor, which I always thought would be the most expensive. Anyway...check me out!

Man, I can't wait to get my new Black Sony Cyber-Shot T300 Digital Camera. Check out the specs! Holla, at'cha girl. My pic taking game is about to shoot through the roof. :BigSmile:

A sistah JUST got the call informing me of the 2009 pay raises...let the church say Y'amen!!! Boy, that's the type of news that you need to hear to lift your spirits on a Wednesday afternoon!

Did I really just KILL 2 red velvet cup cakes, an oatmeal cookie, and a rice crispy treat w/in the last 8 hours? :-( Damn.

Sorry for the lack of posts, guys. I really just haven't been motivated, but I am going to try to get back on my game.

I hit the gym this morning only to be told (15 mins into my swim) that the pool was being closed for about an hour. This would not have normally bothered me except that now I have to get up early 1 add'l day of the week in order to make up for the lost workout. :-( I'm tired.

On a happier note, I did get to go golfing last Thursday. The weather was beautiful, and my team tied for 2nd at 5 under par. Plus, I worked the check in table and was acknowledged as part of the team that pulled the event together. Not a bad look in front of the partners, eh?

Lastly, my b-day is two weeks away. Unfortunately I have kind of gotten into a habit of not being excited about my b-day anymore. I guess we were always looking for an excuse to party in college, so everyone's b-day was a big deal. Now I feel like we kind of do the 'same old, same old' every year...and all that it really does is cost everyone money. However, I'm trying to get excited and perked up. I've invited out some of my dearest friends, so I look forward to being able to spend an evening eating, drinking, dancing, and of course...drinking with them.

Tuesday afternoon smile.
The Obamas, Joe Biden, and HRC riding out the day after the election.

Get yo' note taking game up, son!

Ok, so this weekend I found myself in the stationary and office supplies section of my local Target and Staples stores. I was looking for material for a work/crafts project that I'm completing, and of course, I can't buy anything for someone else w/o making a purchase for myself. Soooo I got to looking at the latest and greatest in notebooks when I stumbled upon this little gem. The Red n' Black notebook. I saw a manager rocking one of these a few years ago, but I hadn't found anything comparable or for a decent price.

My biggest problems with my average wb is that pages fall out of the spiral bounds...the paper back covers get ripped and worn...and its tough to keep them in order. This beauty solves ALL of my problems. It is hardback, so it's built to withstand the beating that it will get in my laptop bag. The pages are bound (like those of a book), so they aren't meant to tear or fall out. Me likey! There is a read ribbon book marker attached, so it's easy for me to find my way back to the last notes that I took. AND the inner front cover has a complete 2007, 2008 and 2009 calendar, time zones for the entire globe, and a spot for important contact info. I love it. Now...it did cost about $7 (so more than your ave $3 notebook), but I really do think that it is worth it.

Did you really think that was all that I bought? Come on now.


I also feel in love with the Mead Five Star Advance Notebook. Now this one doesn't have nearly the features that the Red n' Black book had, but the cover is a durable plastic, it has a folder of sorts inside, and best of all...it has little plastic pockets to hold business cards. This is perfect. Do you know how often ppl give me business cards at a meeting that are lost or discarded at the bottom of my laptop bag by the end of the day? This is the solution.

Lastly, I grabbed a basic accordion file folder. It's pretty slim (folds to completely flat), so it doesn't take up much space within my bag. My biggest issue is that I constantly have papers, meeting agendas, policies/procedures, docs, etc that are collected during meetings. These typically get shoved (and eventually demolished) btwn the pages of my notebook. This is a simple/quick/easy way to compile all of those docs in one place, until they are ready to be discarded.

Soooo...I think that I made out pretty well on a Saturday morning :-) Plus, using these items is giving me a rare ray of sunshine in the middle of my workday...whatever works, right?

Life is Hard!!!!!!!

I think that it must be approaching 'that time of the month' b/c I'm just feeling down today.

Last night I met up w/some old friends at a 'downtown' martini bar. I had been to this particular spot a couple of times, but I guess never during 'primetime Saturday night'. It was packed and the doorman was on that bullshyt...anyone willing to throw extra cash his way or buy a couple of bottles can get in no prob...but us avg. Joes...nada. I stood in a line of about 10 ppl for at least 30 mins. Absolutely ridiculous! I would have left, but the ppl that I was meeting were already inside. THEN the azzhole at the door lets the 9 ppl in front of me enter and closes the rope on me. Grrrr! I asked him how long it would be and this mutha-flubber just shrugs w/o even looking at me. I was sooo sooo frustrated and just said..."Is it a capacity issue b/c its really only me." Finally he said, "It's just you? Come on." I was glad to get in (just b/c my peeps were there), and I let it go and had a great night as soon as I got in the door (I really must be growing). However, in retrospect I just hated the whole experience.

I felt...less than. I just felt like, as much as I love myself, he treated me like I wasn't wealthy enough, or popular enough, or pretty enough, or whatever. It really drives me up the wall when ppl of minimal importance/influence try to use that little bit of power to treat others badly. Meh...I'm just rambling, but looking back...my feelings were really hurt. I felt like I try really hard to be a good person and treat others well, and I really don't deserve to be disregarded. I guess that's just life though.

On a happy note...I SMASHED a 4 piece wing from Harold's in about 10 mins at 3 in the am. Delicious!! PLUS I discovered Shop Erotic on late night tv. Now I wasn't looking to make a purchase, but who even knew that HSN sold the goody goodies late a night? You learn something new everyday.

Ok, I know that I haven't been posting my recipe of the week lately, but just b/c I haven't been cooking DOES NOT mean that I haven't been eating. Oh I have.

This afternoon I had the pleasure of dining at Ja'Grill Restaurant & Lounge. A friend recommended it to me as an option for my upcoming b-day, so I decided to check it out this afternoon. Not bad if I do say so myself. I decided to dine at the bar, which was perfect b/c I got to chat it up w/the bar tender and chef. The food was delicious, though not the absolute best that I've ever tasted. I went w/a curry chicken, which was soooo tender that I can't even describe it and a bread pudding for dessert...lovely. However you know me...my favorite was the rum punch. Bwoy...let's just say that I left there w/a smile on my face.

Now that was just the restaurant section, but the basement converts to a lounge on Thurs, Fri, and Sat night. According to the bartender, the DJ (Andju) gets it going w/a mix of dancehall, reggae, r&b and hip-hop. I think that this might be a hit. I haven't made a final decision yet, but it looks like Ja'Grill has made my short list!

Somebody...anybody...please send some positive vibes this way. I'm super busy/stressed out this week AND AND AND I have a d!@k head at the client who is trying his best to make my life miserable.

**ls sigh** I think I'll go home and start reading my book on mental resilience this evening.

Uber-Fast Updates
(See what I did there? A pic of Usain Bolt, who's fast and whose name starts w/a 'U'. Ya, like it, don't ya?)

Ok, so I'm super, super, super, super, super busy, but I didn't want to neglect the blog for too long.

Last week I did succeed in getting in 4 workouts (one of which was at 5:30 am on my day off), so yay for dedication. I still feel like I'm packing on the pounds, though. I was weighed at the doctor's office last week, and let's just say that I was not pleased with the results. I'm just going to stay on my workout grind, and I have GOT to increase my discipline w/eating. The mid-day snacking has got to chill, if I'm going to stay in the clothes that I bought. The workout plan this week is Wed-Sat, so keep rooting for me.

Work is going well. I'm working on a project that I really hope will be rolled out area-wide (at least) and possibly nationally. I met w/my boss two weeks ago, who had some awesome feedback on the best way to make it to the next level. I'm always thinking on how to step my game up. Plus I have two golf outings coming up this fall, so the opportunities to network are definitely there. YAY ME! At the same time...there just always seems to be sooo sooo sooo much more work to be done, so I'm not drowning, but I'm also not floating either. I'm moreso doggy paddling...surviving and getting ahead...slowly.

I think I got a hook up on getting my new digital camera on the Best Buy 'friends and family' discount. Awesomeness!

Lastly, I really think that I am growing as a person. I don't have the energy to go into much detail, but I am constantly thinking about who I am and what I am offering to this world...on a level beyond what I have been before. I reflect on the post that I made a few months ago about having a purpose in life. I said that my purpose was just to be a good person and an asset in the lives of others. I still believe that, and I am consciously making an effort to live that type of life. This makes me happy!

Have a great day, everyone!

Shhhh, I have a secret...well maybe it's really a confession. I'm not really into politics. I mean, I'm young, educated, 'enlightened'...all of that, but still not reeeeally interested in the political goings ons.

It's like...I vote, but I don't spend a lot of time researching candidates. I watch CNN on a regular basis, but I feel more informed by The Daily Show. I watch pieces of the DNC speeches...while I'm on commercial break from Cartoon Network's Total Drama Island. It's just who I am.

I think that a huge part of it, is that I don't really 'believe' in our political process. Don't get me wrong, I think that there are some very well intentioned individuals and some good that comes out of their efforts. However, I just think that there are MORE individuals with their own agenda (or conflicting agendas) who stand in the way of most of the changes that we all want to see take place. At the end of the day, I guess I feel like the intentions and promises are great, but making those items a reality takes more that just the one individual...so maybe it'll get done, maybe not. Plus...everything that appears in the media is slanted, biased, twisted, bought and paid for...so I view all that rhetoric as a bunch of BS anyway.

For me politics is a necessary process to participate in, but I invest the majority of my time and efforts on the local grassroots projects where I can really SEE the changes take place. Does that make sense?

All of that being said, I am SOOOO Pro-Obama that it doesn't make any sense. Never before, have I really believed in the intentions and abilities of a candidate the way that I do right now. This man is the most accessible, ordinary, down-to-earth American that I have EVER seen run for office. He is SO REAL, and I have nothing but the highest hopes for his administration.

Go Obama-Biden 2008!!!

(P.S. I love this poster, and it on a t-shirt would make an AWESOME b-day gift...I'm just saying.)

I got in that early morning swim this morning, and I feel Grrrrreat!! Hopefully this will hold for the rest of the day. We shall see...now I'm off to be productive.

Have a great day, everyone!

Patience

Sooo, I was asked to speak on the topic of patience, which (to be perfectly honest) is a little tough for me. In truth, I'm not a particularly patient person. I want every good thing that can happen to happen RIGHT NOW. Seriously, the phrase "Faith w/o works is dead." is meant for me because if I have any power to make something great happen in my life, then I'm going to use it.

However, while I'm not a patient person...I am a faithful, believer. Sometimes, despite my best efforts, I just have to wait for some stuff. I wanna buy a new couch and bed for my home, but that's just not going to happen right now. I've had several other big expenditures this year, and I really need to let the budget recoup. Now waiting isn't fun...esp. when I'm reminded of my need for an upgrade every time that I walk in my living room...but it is what it is.

Should I be sad or depressed about this? Nada, life is too short for that. Instead I am constantly planning for the future. I KNOW that I'm going to get to make this purchase at some point within the next year. It may not be exactly when I wanted to, but it will happen...so I am making plans for that day. I guess this is how I merge my impatience with my faith...every time that a plan/hope/dream gets delayed or put on hold, I get the wheels in motion for my new target date. It's almost like a delayed flight at the airport (I know I have some travellers out there). When your flight is delayed, you may get annoyed, but you don't go home (like 'Forget it! I'm not flying today.'). Instead you estimate your new boarding time (back at the gate 30 mins b4 departure), grab a mag or a meal to kill the time, and stay close to the gate in case the departure gets moved up. You adjust and get busy looking forward to your new 'victory'.

Now...when faith doesn't work...I am also delusional :-) By that I mean...I'm just pretty good at putting some sort of a positive spin on stuff that happens in my life. I wanted to get a new camera in July, but I had to wait until later in the year. Perfect excuse...my BIRTHDAY. Now, instead of being bummed about not having a new camera already, I'm counting down until I get to treat myself in the near future. Hooray for me!

Bye Bye Summer!

So the summer is winding down, and some of you may be feeling like it's time to pack on your winter pounds and hibernate until next spring. Not so, my friends! The fall/winter seasons are no reason to lose all that you've accomplished these last few months. You can easily have your summer body all year long. Wouldn't it be great to be able to throw on your bikini or trunks at a moment's notice w/no worry about what the abs are doing? Well this season you are going to be able to do just that! Here are two total body workouts to keep you in shape all year round.

For Women
For Men