Dec 19, 2012

One Month in Heaven

It is hard to believe that it has been one month.  One month since my dad went to heaven.  As i sit at work today, i think of how fast this month went, how it feels like i just hugged him goodbye before he left for his fishing trip at Portsmouth.  The trip that took his life.

I want to write about the accident and my feelings and emotions towards it, but today, on the one month anniversary, i would rather talk about something a little more happy, his life.

My dad was one of a kind, i know a lot of people always say that about their loved ones or friends, but he really was.  There wasn't anyone that i had ever met that was like my dad, he could make me mad and laugh all at the same time.  He was/is the smartest person i have ever met.  From before i was born, my dad strived to be the best person and businessman he could be.  I can remember when i was little thinking my dad was so cool because he owned his own business, something many kids couldn't say.  My dad was a business owner, he built something from the ground up.  It meant so much to him.  He had great success in that business, but he always looked for more.  He had passion, the kind of passion that kept his mind busy and his heart full.  I've never seen my dad so excited as i did with the invention and start up of Safe-T-Shade.  He   poured every ounce of himself into this work.  He was so dedicated to this and had so much passion for it-  i loved this about him.  He was the truest example of passion.  I light of all that has happened, i have really looked at my life.  I have realized that i have changes to make in myself.  

I promise him that i will start living with as much passion as i can.  I promise to stop worrying about the small things, in the end they don't matter.  I promise to live each day to the fullest, you really don't know when it will be your last.  I promise to always show my family and friends how much i appreciate and love them.

I hope my dad is enjoying his time in heaven, i cant wait until i see him again.    

Dec 4, 2012

November 19, 2012

This is the day that forever changed my life, it is the day that my sweet dad went to Heaven.  I still cannot believe that i have to live the rest of my life without my dad, I absolutely cannot wait until i see him again.

He is the smartest person i have ever met- and i know there was so much more life he could have lived, there was more that he wanted to do.  Although his life was cut much too short- the 56 years he was on earth were not wasted.  He lived life to the absolute fullest and was passionate about so many things.

The things i will miss the most are:  his ice blue eyes, his goofy smile, his love for having fun, his culinary concoctions he would come up with, his smell of old spice and cigars, his encouragement in everything i did, and his passion for life.

The next couple of posts will be dedicated to the life of my father.

Oct 31, 2012

WLW- Week 12


Weight Loss Wednesday- Week 12

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs
Week 12 loss:  1.5 lbs
Total loss:  15.5 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:    Gym
- 45 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.4 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Thursday:  Gym
- 40 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.5 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Friday:  None

Saturday:  None

Sunday:  None

Monday: None

Tuesday:   Gym

- 45 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.6 miles
- 15 Min with weights


Reflections:
* Good thing my weigh in day was today and not tomorrow!  It is HARD to be around all of these sweets!
* Happy Halloween!

Oct 24, 2012

WLW- Week 11



Weight Loss Wednesday- Week 11

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs
Week 11 loss:  1.5 lbs
Total loss:  14 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:    Gym
- 35 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.5 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Thursday:  Gym
- 35 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.5 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Friday:  Gym
- 40 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.5 miles
- 15 Min with weights

Saturday:  None- Out of Town

Sunday:  None- Out of Town

Monday: Gym
- 45 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.6 miles
- 15 Min with weights

Tuesday:   None


Reflections:
*  I broke even again with my weight loss- last week i had a gain of 1.5 and this week i lost the 1.5.  I'm still not sure what the gain from last week was from, all food and exercise was the usual.  Oh well, i am not going to think too much into it.

* I ran this morning and put in 3 miles on the treadmill.  Most of it was walking on a steep incline, but i did get some running in and it felt really good.  I am so ready to just be able to run run run run!  Baby steps.... :)

*  I think i will do another recipe review this week.  I've tried some yummy and healthy stuff lately and want to share!

Oct 18, 2012

WLW- Week 10

I didn't post yesterday because i forgot to get on the scale first thing in the morning....maybe it was a forewarning to this week...because as of this morning i am up 1.5 lbs from last week.

So, I am not doing a regular post this week....instead i am going to get my butt in gear!

Oct 10, 2012

WLW- Week 9



Weight Loss Wednesday- Week 9

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs
Week 9 loss:  1 lb
Total loss:  13 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:    Gym
- 35 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.5 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Thursday:  Gym
- 35 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.5 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Friday:  None

Saturday:  Gym
- 35 minutes on elliptical
- 25 Min with weights 

Sunday:  None

Monday: Gym
- 35 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.25 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Tuesday:   None


Reflections:
* Nothing in particular this week....just ready for the weekend! :)

Oct 3, 2012

WLW- Week 8



Weight Loss Wednesday- Week 8

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs
Week 8 loss:  1.5 lbs
Total loss:  12 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:  None

Thursday:  Gym
- 35 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.5 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Friday:  None

Saturday:  Gym
- 35 minutes on elliptical
- 25 Min with weights 

Sunday:  None

Monday: Gym

- 35 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.25 miles

- 25 Min with weights

Tuesday:   Gym
- 35 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.25 miles
- 25 Min with weights


Reflections:
* My feet/knees are still having a hard time with running.  But i do what i can.  Hopefully over time i will be able to run more and more each week.
* Anyone have good recipes they can pass along that are healthy?  I always like to get new ideas to switch it up!
*  We have no plans (well other than homework Chris has) this weekend.  I cannot wait to just relax!  We have been so busy lately!

Sep 26, 2012

WLW- Week 7



Weight Loss Wednesday- Week 7

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs
Week 7 loss:  1 lb
Total loss:  10.5 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:  Gym
- 35 minutes on elliptical
- 25 Min with weights

Thursday:  Gym
- 35 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.5 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Friday:  None

Saturday:  None (none officially but we were in ATL and i probably walked 3 miles)

Sunday:  None

Monday: Gym
- 35 minutes on elliptical
- 25 Min with weights

Tuesday:   Gym
- 35 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.25 miles
- 25 Min with weights


Reflections:
*I am finally in the freaking double digits!!
* I am pretty content with the weight loss this week.  Of course i would love for it to be more.  However, considering we were out of town all weekend i thought it was pretty good.  I did bring my shake mix to ATL with me and had it for breakfast.  I wasn't able to make it any other time- and the food options that were available weren't the best.  I tried my best when it came to eating and drinking over the weekend.  When i got home i weighed myself just to see the damage from the weekend and i was up 2 lbs from last Wednesday.  I almost cried, so i worked super hard Monday and Tuesday and came in with -1 from last week.  So I am happy with it- a loss is a loss.
*  I haven't really been able to tell a difference in my clothes from a size perspective yet.  My clothes do fit better but i haven't had to go down a size yet.  I am hoping that will change very soon!  

Sep 25, 2012

Healthy Swaps


I thought i would document some of the fun healthier versions of things I have found that are really tasty!

Jello Grapes or Glitter Grapes
These are probably my favorite treat right now.  I eat some of these as dessert every night.  I use green grapes and usually cherry/lime/or strawberry jello (powdered).  Put your grapes (pulled off the vine) in a colander and rinse with cold water. Do not dry them.  Place in a zip lock bag and sprinkle over your favorite jello.  I usually add about 1 tsp - 1 tbs depending on how many grapes i have in the bag.  Close the bag and shake to coat all grapes.  Place in the freezer.  I usually only keep mine in the freezer for 1-3 hours- i prefer them really cold slightly frozen to frozen solid.  These are so good and are a good option for when i have a sweet tooth!

Cauliflower mashed potatoes
Since starting our weightloss journey Chris and i have tried to find healthier options of foods that we love.  I mean who doesn't love mashed potatoes?  I replace the potatoes with cooked cauliflower (I use a modified version of this recipe).  I boil a head of cauliflower until it is tender (usually 6-8 minutes).  I transfer the cooked cauliflower to my blender.  I add about 2 tbs of water, 1/4 cup of sour cream, 2 tbs of shredded cheese, salt and pepper, and 3 tsp of Low Carb - Thick'n potato mix (you can order the mix here).  I just blend until creamy and serve.  The LC mix will thicken up the cauliflower mixture- it gives it the consistency of mashed potatoes.  I have been making these for a while, but just recently discovered the LC mix.  It makes all the difference!  These are delicious!

Cauliflower pizza crust
One thing i have really missed lately is pizza.  So i went on a quest to find a lighter healthier version.  This one  requires you to cook cauliflower (boil again) but pull it out of the pot right as it is fork tender.  You don't want it to get too soft.  Let it cool for a couple of minutes.  Once it is cool grate the cauliflower on the finest part of the grater.  I usually do this over a tea towel.  Once you are finished grating, right out the excess water from the cauliflower.  Add 1 cup of cauliflower to a bowl, 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, and salt and pepper.  Mix to combine.  On a cookie sheet that is sprayed with pam press out the mixture evenly.  I usually make 2-4 small circles with my mixture.  This way while it is baking i can flip it easily.  Bake at 450 degrees for about 12 minutes.  I usually flip mine about 6 minutes in.  Take it out of the oven and top with your favorite things.  Put it under the broiler for a couple of minutes until toppings are heated through. (Recipe source here).  Yall, this is so yummy.  I was skeptical about this, but i was thoroughly impressed.  It is a little labor intensive but very much worth it.

Beet Salad
If you don't like beets you will not like these.  I happen to LOVE beets and like them as a side dish.  I start by roasting mine.  I cut the tops and bottoms off of my beets and wrap each one in aluminum foil.  Then i place them on a cookie sheet and into a 350 degree oven to bake for 1 hour.  Once they are fork tender- i open up the aluminum foil to let them cool.  To remove the skin i just rub them between a paper towel- the skin should come off very easily.  It will be a little messy.  I usually serve these with a Dijon vinaigrette.  To make the vinaigrette i whisk together  1 Tbs of canola or vegetable oil, 1-2 Tbs of dijon mustard, and 1 tsp of vinegar.  

What are some good swaps you have found?!?



Sep 19, 2012

WLW- Week 6


Weight Loss Wednesday- Week 6

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs
Week 6 loss:  1.5 lbs
Total loss:  9.5 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:  None

Thursday:  Gym
- 35 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.5 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Friday:  None

Saturday:  Gym
- 35 minutes on treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.5 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Sunday:  None

Monday: Home workout
-15 Min on Elliptical
-10 Min with weights

Tuesday:   Gym
- 35 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.25 miles
- 25 Min with weights


Reflections:
* Just happy to have a loss this week, hoping for a bigger one next week!

Sep 12, 2012

WLW- Week 5



Weight Loss Wednesday- Week 5

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs
Week 4 loss:  0 lbs
Total loss:  8 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:  Home sick = day of rest

Thursday:  Gym
- 20 Min on Elliptical
*Run/Walk- 2 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Friday:  None

Saturday:  40 minute walk with the dogs

Sunday:  None

Monday:  Gym
- 40 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.75 miles
- 15 Min with weights

Tuesday:   Gym
- 35 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 2.25 miles
- 15 Min with weights


Reflections:
*No loss this week, its hard not to get discouraged.  Chris and I can both see a difference in my body this week even with no loss- so, im going to just push forward and hope for a good loss next week!  I just changed up my bbv program so hopefully that will help some too.
* Knees are feeling good again.  I took 2 weeks off of running and eased back into it on Monday.  I felt great monday so i tried running again tuesday- i could tell i was starting to get sore so i took it kind of easy.  Im going to back off some again so that i dont over do it.  I cant wait until i can just run some without my knees and legs hurting!




Sep 7, 2012

Recipe Review


Chris and I have tried some excellent recipes lately and i thought i would share!
By the time dinner comes around- both of us are ready for a good meal.  Not that our bbv shakes are bad, but i definitely look forward to a flavorful and satisfying dinner.

Below are some of the recipes we have tried recently that we have really liked.  I've also included the links to the recipes in case you want to try them! :)


Raspberry Chipotle BBQ Baked Chicken
Personal Rating5/10
Recipe Linkhttp://budgetbytes.blogspot.com/2011/02/raspberry-chipotle-bbq-chicken-995.html
Thoughts:  The recipe called for chicken thighs, which i normally like.  However, this was not my favorite.  I thought the raspberry sauce was very good- it had excellent flavor.  There was just something i didn't love about the recipe.  I may try it again with chicken breasts.  Chris on the other hand thought it was so good.  He had leftovers the next day for lunch and said they were even better than the day before.

Spicy Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork
Personal Rating: 8.5/10
Recipe Link: http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/03/spicy-dr-pepper-shredded-pork/
Thoughts:  This recipe is really great for a couple of reasons.  It is tasty and it is so easy.  I literally just threw everything in the crock pot and let it cook on low for 8+ hours.  I make this probably once a month.  My only complaint is that the 'sauce' isn't really sauce.  The last time i made this i wanted some thicker red sauce to go with it so i made this sauce to go with it and it was a huge hit!  I usually serve this with homemade cole slaw and a veggie.

Eggplant Parmesan
Personal Rating: 10/10
Recipe Link:  I didn't follow a recipe for this- i kind of just went with what i thought would be good.  See bottom of the post for the recipe i used.
Thoughts:  This is one of my favorite meals ever.  I have to say Chris was less than thrilled when i told him we were going to be having Eggplant Parmesan.  Once he tasted it- he immediately told me that he changed his mind, he loved it and so did I.  We try to eat vegetarian at least 1-2 times a week, this will for sure be in the rotation!

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Sriracha Mayo
Personal Rating: 10/10
Recipe Linkhttp://budgetbytes.blogspot.com/2011/09/teriyaki-salmon-w-sriracha-mayo-1394.html
Thoughts:  Delicious!  I have been trying to incorporate more seafood into our diet, so when i saw this recipe i knew i wanted to try it.  Chris and i both love asian flavors (as you can tell from most of the recipes listed).  This salmon did not dissapoint.  My only warning is- since the marinade has some sugar and cornstarch in it- be prepared for the glaze to get a bit sticky when it is cooking.  Don't let that freak you out, it is very good.  I served this with spinach pasta.

Hawaiian Grilled Chicken
Personal Rating: 10/10
Recipe Linkhttp://www.chef-in-training.com/2012/06/hawaiian-grilled-chicken/
Thoughts:  We made this recipe while we were spending the weekend at Barkwells for our Anniversary.  I marinated the chicken overnight and Chris then grilled it on a charcoal grill.  This was a treat for us- since we arent able to actually grill at home.  The chicken was so tender and was the perfect flavor!  I served this with spinach pasta and broccoli.  We will be making this again very soon!

Sweet and Spicy Honey Grilled Shrimp
Personal Rating: 10/10
Recipe Link: http://www.ourbestbites.com/2008/08/sweet-and-spicy-honey-grilled-shrimp/
Thoughts:  This was another recipe that we made while on our Anniversary trip.  I marinated the shrimp for a couple of hours.  I then skewered them right before we put them on the charcoal grill.  Again, this was a treat as normally we would cook these inside in a pan.  These were also very very good.  They were sweet and spicy at the same time!  I served these with asian noodles.  Yum!

Sriracha Baked Chicken Fingers
Personal Rating: 9.5/10
Recipe Link: http://budgetbytes.blogspot.com/2010/04/sriracha-chicken-strips-455-recipe-114.html
Thoughts:  If you like spice you will love these!  I was worried these would be too spicy for me to eat- but i was surprised, they were great.  I followed the recipe - however, i only let my chicken marinate for 20 minutes.  Both chris and i were very pleased with how these turned out.  I served these with broccoli and corn on the cob.

Teriyaki Meatball Bowls
Personal Rating: 8/10
Recipe Link: http://budgetbytes.blogspot.com/2012/01/teriyaki-meatball-bowls-789-recipe-132.html
Thoughts: These were a bit time consuming to make, but i thought worth the extra effort.  These will freeze well, so if you have too many, you can always stash leftovers in the freezer.  This was probably Chris' least favorite- only due to the fact that he thought the meatballs had too much ginger in them.  He is not a huge fan of ginger.  Next time i make these i will either omit the ginger or add less.  I served this with jasmine rice.

Chorizo and Sweet Potato Enchiladas
Personal Rating: 7.5/10
Recipe Link: http://budgetbytes.blogspot.com/2011/02/chorizo-sweet-potato-enchiladas-908.html
Thoughts:  This was a surprisingly tasty combination.  If you haven't had chorizo before it is a spiced sausage.  The sweet potato was the perfect pair with the spicy sausage.  These were a hit.  I didn't serve these with anything as i thought they were enough on their own.

Zuchinni Pizza
Personal Rating:  10/10
Recipe Link:  Again, i didn't have a recipe to go by.  I just kind of winged this- see below for my recipe.
Thoughts:  This is a good recipe if you are looking for something quick and easy!  I had some zucchini left over that i needed to use, but wanted to do something different with it.  Chris and I love making mini pizzas.  We use the soft tortilla's (you can get low carb/ whole wheat/ etc) and just add whatever we want.  They take about 6 minutes in a really hot oven.  Easy and delicious.


Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Ingredient List:
1 medium eggplant
Marinara Sauce- i would say appx 4-6 cups
Plain Breadcrumbs
1 egg
Mozarella Cheese

Basic Marinara:
Ingredient List:
1 Medium Onion
2 Cloves of garlic, minced
2 Tbs of sugar
2 Tbs of red wine vinegar
1 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes (give or take depending on your heat preference)
1 small can of tomato paste
1 regular sized can of tomato sauce
1 regular sized can of diced tomatoes
1 regular sized can of crushed tomatoes
salt and pepper to taste
*You can bypass the crushed tomatoes and just use sauce and diced.  Or you can just use sauce.  This is typically what i have in my pantry so this is what i use.  It is very forgiving, so just add what you have.

- Chop up an onion and saute in a tbs of olive oil (or whatever oil you have on hand) on medium heat.
- Once the onion is soft add the minced garlic, let cook for another minute or two
- Add the can of tomato paste.  Stir to combine.
- Once you can smell the tomato paste add the other cans of tomatoes (sauce/crushed/diced).
- Add the sugar, s/p, red wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes
- I let this continue to cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes.
- I use my immersion (or stick) blender to get this to the consitancy that i like.
- Put a lid on this and turn the heat down to med- low.  Let simmer until you are ready to use.


1- Peel the eggplant and slice thin.  I usually slice my thin- thinner than i would slice a cucumber.  Place in a collander and sprinkle with a tsp of salt.  Mix up and let sit while you prepare the marinara.  *This is to extract some of the moisture from the eggplant- which will prevent your dish from being too watery.  This is optional, but i typically do this while i fix the sauce.

2- I get my marinara sauce on the stove, you could use canned or jarred sauce, but i usually keep the ingredients to make my own on hand.  It is really easy to make marinara- so i usually make a batch and freeze what i don't use for later. (See recipe above)

3- Remove eggplant from collander.  Prepare the dredging assembly line.  For the egg- crack into a bowl and add 1-2 Tbs of water (whisk together).  

4- Dip each piece of eggplant into the egg mix and then dredge in plain breadcrumbs.

5- Add to a hot skillet and brown on both sides.  

6- Assemble the casserole.  I always add a spoonful or two of marinara sauce to the bottom of my casserole dish.  I then add a layer of the eggplant, then a layer of marinara, and then a sprinkle of mozarella cheese.  Repeat this until your eggplant is gone.  

7- I usually sprinkle the top with a little bit of cheese.

8- Bake in a 360 degree oven for 25 minutes.



Zucchini Pizza
Ingredient List:
Flour Tortilla
2 Tbs of part milk ricotta
2 Tbs of mozarella cheese
1 Small Zucchini, grated
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

1- Combine the ricotta and mozarella.  Spread evenly over the tortilla.

2- Add the grated zucchini on top.  

3- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes 

4- Bake  in a 425 degree oven until brown on the edges- usually 6-7 minutes.


If you try these- I hope you enjoy them as much as we did! :)






Sep 6, 2012

WLW- Week 4 (A day late)

I was not able to get this posted yesterday- but i did weigh in!  Here are my updates for the week...



Weight Loss Wednesday- Week 4

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs
Week 4 loss:  1.5 lbs
Total loss:  8 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:  Gym
- 20 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 1.25 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Thursday:  Gym
- 20 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 1.25 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Friday:  None

Saturday:  40 minute walk with the dogs

Sunday:  None

Monday:  None

Tuesday:  Gym
-10 Min on eliptical
* 1.25 miles
-10 Min on Treadmill
*walk- 1.0 miles
- 25 Min with weights


Reflections:
* Knees are still hurting me to run....ugh.  It is not my shoes- i've tried 2 different pair of running shoes and my knees still hurt.  Any advice???
*Chris can lose 4-5 lbs in a week- why is it so easy for guys to drop weight.  It makes me so mad!
*Chris and I are still shaking - in fact i will be ordering more mix today!  His favorite shakes are:  chocolate peanut butter or chocolate banana.  I like to mix mine up- usually i go for:  choclate peanut butter, plain chocolate, strawberry banana, or coffee.
*Happy to have week 4 down!  Cheers to week 5!

My favorite recipes post coming tomorrow....

Aug 29, 2012

WLW- Week 3



Weight Loss Wednesday- Week 3

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs
Week 3 loss:  2.5 lbs
Total loss:  6.5 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:  None

Thursday:  Gym
- 20 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 1.25 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Friday:  None

Saturday:  Gym
-20 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 1.20 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Sunday:  40 minute walk with the dogs

Monday:  Gym
-10 Min on eliptical
* 1.25 miles
-10 Min on Treadmill
*walk- 1.0 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Tuesday:  None


Reflections:
* I gave my knees a break this week- they had been hurting a bit from running.  So, i backed off and put in some time on the elliptical.  I still like running better- i just feel like I'm doing more- maybe it is because i can feel everything moving, haha.
*I continued with my BBV shakes for breakfast/lunch with an occasional snack in between.
*I feel really good lately and I'm starting to notice a little bit of difference in how my clothes fit.
*I haven't had any alcohol in 10 days- i really don't miss it at all.  To be honest this wasn't really intentional- i would just much rather eat my calories than drink them! :)
*I wish i had taken my measurements- i know that there is a good chance there will be a loss in inches even if there isn't much of a lb loss for the week.  I may take my measurements this weekend just to track that way too.
*Happy to have week 3 down!  Cheers to week 4!

Aug 27, 2012

Things I am currently loving...

Life is good right now, here are some things i am currently loving....

1- That i can finally say.....I am going to be an Aunt!  Lora and Matt are expecting a precious little baby at the end of Feb.  To say i am excited is an understatement.  Their journey to this point has been a long one and i couldn't be more thrilled for them.  I am very much looking forward to having another niece or nephew!

2- That i got a call from the doctor today about my recent blood work.  Everything looks normal, while this doesn't resolve my issues, it is definitely a relief to hear this news.

3- My new ear buds that i recently got.  My mom gave me a pair- she uses them and loves them.  If you haven't tried yurbuds, i would highly recommend them.  They are so comfortable and stay put while i work out.  They are a little pricey- but in my opinion worth the extra money!

4- For the last week and a half- i have been back on the body by vi shakes for breakfast and lunch.  My favorite is the iced coffee.  SO GOOD.  Here is how i make mine...

4 ounces (1/2 cup) of silk soy lite
4 ounces (1/2 cup) of water
2 scoops of bbv shake mix
1 teaspoon of instant coffee
1 single serving pack of Maxwell House International Iced Coffee Mix- Iced French Vanilla
Ice

If you like iced coffee, you will love this!  You really don't need to add the instant coffee- but i like the extra coffee flavor it adds.

5- That i made my first trip to Whole Foods this weekend.  It was so fun- what can i say, it doesn't take much to entertain me!  Chris and I have been trying to eat as clean as possible- so far WF has not dissapointed.

6- That i have tried so many new recipes for dinner lately.  Like i said, we are trying to eat as clean and natural as possible.  Since i am 'shaking' for breakfast and lunch- i have spent some time in the kitchen making some new recipes for dinner.  I found a site that i really like- it is :  budgetbytes(dot)com.  She has a lot of good, budget conscious recipes.  Our favorite so far is - a chorizo and sweet potato enchilada recipe.  I made them over the weekend and 1 small enchilada was enough to fill me up.  We will be trying a couple other recipes from her site this week- i will probably do a recipe review next week.

7- My Chris man- he is just a sweet one.  He has been really supportive in my weight loss journey- he gets up with me every morning that i work out and goes to the gym with me.  It has been really nice to have him by my side in all of this.  I am also loving that he is back in school- i helped him with some homework last night, and whew i am a little rusty with the whole school thing.  I ended the night of homework with a headache....haha.  But it really makes me proud that he is back in school- i am really excited for him.


We have a lot going on this week- I cannot believe August is almost over!
      

Aug 22, 2012

WLW- Week 2


Weight Loss Wednesday- Week 2

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs
Week 2 loss:  1 lb
Total loss:  4 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:  Gym

- 20 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 1.20 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Thursday:  Gym
- 20 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 1.25 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Friday:  None

Saturday:  None

Sunday:  None

Monday:  None

Tuesday:  Gym

- 20 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 1.25 miles
- 25 Min with weights


Reflections:
*My lack of exercise this week was due to the fact that we were out of town all weekend.
*I am still happy with a 1 lb loss considering I ate cake twice this weekend (once for my anniversary and once for my birthday).
*Chris and I are back on track for this week.  Looking forward to better results next week.
*I also had my blood work done Monday, hopefully we will get some results this week from that.
*New running shoes really make you feel better :)

Aug 16, 2012

WLW- Week 1 (a day late)

Weight Loss Wednesdays.  Catchy huh? :)

How i track my progress will probably evolve over time- but for now, im just going to list goals, progress, and anything else related.

Weight loss Goal:  70 lbs

Week 1 loss:  3 lbs

Total loss:  3 lbs

Weekly workout details

Wednesday:  Gym
- 20 Min on elliptical (don't know stats)
- 25 Min with weights

Thursday:  took the dogs for a 40 minute walk

Friday:  Gym

- 20 Min on Treadmill (don't know stats)
- 25 Min with weights


Saturday:  day of rest

Sunday:  took the dogs for a 40 minute walk

Monday:  Gym

- 20 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 1.20 miles
- 25 Min with weights

Tuesday:  Gym
-20 Min on Treadmill
*Run/Walk- 1.40 miles
- 25 Min with weights


Week 1 down....many more to go!  


Aug 15, 2012

A new journey

I mentioned in my new years post that i wanted to get healthy this year- which includes losing weight.  I have to be honest that i haven't done much about this so far this year.  My weight was never really a struggle for me until i quit playing tennis.  I guess when you play tennis 4-5 times a week year round, you really don't have to worry about your weight.  However, when i quit playing (college)- i gained weight- not a ton, but probably 20- 25 pounds.  I maintained this weight through college, it was not my ideal weight, but it was one that i got comfortable with.  About 3 years ago, i quit smoking (best decision ever) and i proceeded to put on another 30+ pounds over time.  

None of these are excuses as to why i gained weight- it has been all me.  I completely take responsibility for it- it happened because i made bad decisions regarding my health.  It has really been a source of struggle for me the last couple of years.


Recently Chris and i have started to have the children talk.  While we would love to get pregnant right now- we know deep down that i need to get healthy (or healthier) first.  I have recently had some health issues that could be a result of my weight- the doctors are not sure yet.  Do you know how hard that was to hear- it makes me emotional just typing it out.  It was a huge wake up call to me- that changes need to be made now.  Not tomorrow, or next week, but now.  So Chris and i have set out on our weight loss journey.  We are still very much in the beginning stages of this- but have committed to each other that we will hold each other accountable.  


We have vowed to exercise and eat healthier- right now we are a week in and it is going well.  It is not easy at all- but i know it will eventually get easier.

I want to use this space to record my progress as a way to keep track of how i'm doing, to hold myself accountable.  I want to be able to look back and see what progress i have made.

I have to go to the doctors on Monday to have some blood work done (on my birthday, boooo!).  We will hopefully have some answers after that about my issue.  (I'm not dying or anything- its not a huge problem, but one that will impact us trying to have children when we are ready).

So here is to this new journey- a recap of my first week coming up!



Aug 6, 2012

Hello August!

I cannot believe it is already august.  Where in the world did summer go?!?  Our summers are full of parties, weddings, birthdays, and vacations.  It seems like the summer months are just a blur.

August is such a special month for us- it is the month when we got engaged, the month we got married, and its my birthday month!  We sure do have a lot to celebrate this month.

It is so crazy to think that this time last year we were on our way to Florida to tie the knot.  There were so many 'obstacles' that we hit right before the wedding-  we were just happy to be on our way to the Sunshine State.

I wish we could get married all over again- we had so much fun during the wedding and on our honeymoon.  We hope to go back to Florida very soon!

In honor of our upcoming (1st) anniversary, here are some pictures of the special day...





















Jun 21, 2012

Thursday Randoms...

- Our condo is officially on the market.  I like to be optimistic and think that the process of actually selling it wont take forever.....keeping my fingers crossed.

- I got a new car!  Long story short- chris and i needed money for a down payment for our next home so we sold my car.  It put what we needed into our pocket and we leased a car for me.  It came down to the fact that we would rather have a house than a car :) As sad as i was to see the Acura go, i was just as happy to welcome a 2012 Honda CRV- i'm thoroughly enjoying it!

- I have vacation coming up- an entire week off of work.  I.cannnot.wait.

- Going back to the condo situation- keeping a house up to par for showings is not fun.  It is a lot of work when you actually live in the house you are selling and have 2 dogs.  Sheesh.

- I need the following things terribly:  my hair dyed, my nails done, and a tan.  All things that i wish i could just snap my fingers and have done.

- We have SO many weddings this year- i think 7 to be exact.  We have already been to 2- it is definitely wedding season!  Between weddings, showers, and vacations i am pretty much booked this summer!

- I am ready to move (like yesterday).  We are busting at the seams in the condo.  Selling our place and buying a house cannot happen fast enough.

- Ever feel like you constantly give to people in your life and don't receive anything in return?  Yeah, that's how Chris and I feel lately. I'm just really thankful for my sweet hubby and our 2 pups.  

- I cannot believe our 1 year anniversary is quickly approaching.  Time is going so fast.  We have some fun stuff planned - i am very much looking forward to it!


Jun 19, 2012

Las Vegas

Again, i have been terrible with keeping things updated here.  There has been a lot going on between work, vacation, weddings, and parties!

A couple of weeks ago i had the opportunity to represent my company in Las Vegas for a week and attend the HP Discover convention (nerds unite!).  I was particularly excited because its been about 13 years since i had been to Vegas- and i was pumped that I would be of age to do some gambling this time.  I was also excited to attend the convention- this is the biggest IT/QA convention of its kind.  It is held each year as a technology showcase for all IT business/customers.  It is a way to learn about new technology as well as network with many people.  

Our flight left RDU at 6am on a Monday morning- we landed in Vegas at 8 am....ah the joys of a time change! :)  We caught a cab to our hotel, The Venetian.  What a beautiful place- it was so big you didn't even need to leave to do anything.  It had 2 pools, 25 + restaurants, 3 casinos, 2 theaters, and so much more.

We quickly got settled into our rooms and headed to the pool.  The heat out west is so different from the heat in the east- it was SO warm.  We relaxed at the pool for about 2 hours and i managed to get burnt!  Later that evening we attended a Welcome banquet that HP put on- it was a nice way to kick off the week.  That evening was spent at one of the restaurant/bars in the hotel, The Public House.  Way too many drinks were consumed and a lot of fun was had that night!  To say that i was not 100% the next day is an understatement.  There may have been some bad decisions made that night- i think i forgot how old i was! :)

To give an idea of how big this event is-- there was an estimated 10,000 people that attended.  With 1,000 sessions available (in a 3 day span) to attend.  Day 2 was spent in sessions- i tried to pick ones that would most benefit my position- however, when there are that many to choose from its tough.  Later that night my company hosted a cocktail party at one of the restaurants in the Venetian.  We invited all of our current customers that were also attending the conference.  It was a really nice event!

After the cocktail party a couple of my coworkers and myself headed to a club at the Mirage, which was across the street.  That was the first club I've been in since i left college, i really don't know how i did that for 5 years, whew.  

By day 3 my poor feet were killing me.  You do so much walking in Vegas.  Even though the convention was in our hotel, you still walk so much.  I seriously had to take Advil to help alleviate some of the pain in my legs.

Going out 2 nights in a row and then having to get up and sit in sessions all day wore me out- by Wednesday night i was dead tired.  The day was spent in sessions again, trying to retain as much knowledge as we could.  My roommate and i had dinner at B & B, Mario Batali's restaurant.  The food in Vegas is so fancy, and yummy too!  We both stayed in that night and watched a movie after dinner.  We needed a little break from the Vegas crowd!  

The last day was again spent in sessions.  That evening HP put together a farewell party for the entire convention that included a private screening of Madagascar 3 and then a concert with Sheryl Crow and Don Henley (from the Eagles).  We went to dinner at a place called 'Delmonico's'- it is Emeril Lagasse's restaurant.  Delish!  Instead of going to the movie and concert a couple of us opted to see 'The Phantom of the Opera' which was playing in our hotel.  It was awesome- we had really great seats.  That was my first time to a show like that, i loved it.

The next morning we got up early and flew back home.  It was such a fun trip, i really hope i get to go again next year.

My company also won an award at the convention- we won HP's support partner of the Year- Commercial.  It is a huge accomplishment and says a ton about the level/quality of work that we do.  

A few pictures from the trip...

 (In the lobby of the Venetian)

 (View from our room)

 (View from our room)

 (Room in the Venezia- a tower in the Venetian)

 (Room again)

 (Inside the Phantom theater)

 (The fire show at the Mirage)

(Coworker and room mate)






Mar 30, 2012

Friday Randoms...

Some Friday randoms...and a catch up post

- I traveled to Atlanta for a week in February for work.  I don't usually like travelling for work, but this trip was fun.  I was with a couple of co- workers so we enjoyed the week soaking up ATL, trying new restaurants, and working hard!  Atlanta always makes me think of my engagement- it was nice to reminisce. :)

- I missed Valentines with Chris, as that was the week i was in ATL.  So, we celebrated early (Valentines and our 6 month anniversary) with a nice dinner to Print Works. It was delicious!
A sweet from my sweet


- The stomach bug hit the Collins house in full force this year.  I've never had the stomach bug before- after experiencing it in early March, i can confirm that it is just as terrible as it sounds .  It took both Chris and I a good week to fully recover....we were quite the pair for a while!  Thank goodness the dogs couldn't catch it!



- I had a couple of days of vacation to use up, so i spent the first couple of days in March spring cleaning.  (I know, spending your vacation cleaning should be illegal).  I got a lot accomplished- the spare closet/room cleaned out and organized and i moved a lot of things to our storage unit.  One step closer to getting our condo on the Market!

- My babe started a new job!  He is now working in Crop Insurance, yes, crop like farmers crops.  :)  I wonder if there are any chances of farmers market discounts....probably not! :)

- My parents and Chris and I made a trip to Richmond to visit Lora and Matt.  We were there St. Patty's weekend.  It was nice, as always, visiting Lora and Matt.  It was a beautiful weekend- we did a little shopping and had a nice dinner on the water at The Boathouse.
(Lora and Ding Dong Duncan)


- Chris celebrated his 29th birthday late March!  We kicked off the celebration in Richmond and finished it up with a special dinner at one of our favorite places in Greensboro, Steak Street.  


- Wedding season will officially begin for Chris and I in the next couple of weeks.  We have 4 weddings to attend this year, with Chris as a groomsman in one!  Lots or parties/showers to look forward to.  

- I just booked a cabin at Barkwells for our 1 year anniversary in August!  Chris and I and the dogs are very much looking forward to it!  We love it there.



Jan 4, 2012

New Year!

I am having a really hard time coming to terms with the fact that a new year has started.  Is this the case with anyone else?  I mean- didn't i just get engaged and married????  I had so much to look forward to with 2011- birthdays, showers, photog sessions, wedding planning, and of course the WEDDING!  I remember thinking when January 2011 came our wedding seemed so far away.  I didn't know how we would survive passing the long days until August.  Well August came and went and now we are reflecting back on that time- unreal! 

I thought i would do just a short list of the highlights of 2011 as well as go through some of my hopes for 2012.  I prefer to call them hopes rather than goals :)

2011- Year in Review
- 2 year mark of when Chris and I met....what a wonderful 2 years it has been.
- Buying my wedding dress
- Wonderful trip to Pinehurst with the family
- Chris' 28th Birthday!
- Wedding planning!
- We attended 3 lovely weddings
- I hosted a baby shower for a dear friend
- My nephew turned 1!
- I watched my dear friends welcome their baby boy into this world
- Chris celebrated 1 year of work with his current company
- Showers, Showers, Showers
- Engagement Photos
- Bachelorette Party :)
- Bridal Portrait
- Wedding!
- Honeymoon
- Reception
- Lots of trips scattered throughout this list too- Richmond, Atlanta, Boone, Carolina Beach

2011 was really the year of the wedding- that was by far the main focus.  I am so grateful for all of the people that were a part of all of the events surrounding our wedding- it really meant so much to Chris and I.

I have many hopes for 2012- i think it is going to be a great year.  So in no particular order.....

2012 Hopes
- Be debt free (minus a mortgage/car pmts). 
Chris and I signed up for Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace Class.  It starts the end of this month and is held every Sunday evening for 13 weeks.  I have heard really good things about this program.  We don't have huge amounts of debt, we don't even have student loans.  However, anyone that has some debt knows how easy it is to feel like your making no progress in paying it off.  I want to start living debt free now, before kids, before a new house, before everything else.  We are excited to get started!

- Get Healthy and Stay healthy. 
This is a must- I want to lose weight and keep it off.  It is time.

- Get organized.
This is a general statement, but there are so many aspects in life i feel a little disorganized about.  Bill, Money, Home, Work.  Get things really organized and keep them that way.

- Get my condo on the market (and SOLD). 
I would love to move into a house this year (whether it is buying or renting)- but in order to do this i need to sell my place first.  Chris and I have made some updates recently to the condo- i really hope to have it on the market and sold by early spring.

-Grow in my relationship.
This is Chris and mines first year of marriage.  While we have been together for a couple of years- i think this first year of marriage is so exciting.  I want to really grow in our relationship this year- make tons of memories.  I want to be able to look back at this time and reflect on how fun it is.

All in all I am really looking forward to what 2012 has to bring!