Cesar and I have lately been blogging, and IMing.
He is out on a business trip and I really have stuff I want to talk to him about, but he's not here to talk to. :( It's very sad. I need someone to talk to when I'm bored. Like today I am eating at my desk for no good reason, other than I don't want to go anywhere to eat. I am not swampped. So if he were here I could be IMing him!
Cesar! Hurry back to me!
Anyone else ever IM? Maybe you could keep me company?
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
I'm Wearing a Skirt, and Noone's Noticed
Today, I am wearing a skirt. This usually is not a big deal, because I used to wear them all the time, then I got fatter, and didn't fit into them. Plus it's cold out here, and who wants their poor little legs exposed to freezing temperatures?! The big deal is, I haven't wore a skirt in months. Literally, months! I have been wearing jeans to work. (My office is very casual, I could come in my Pj's if I wanted to, but I don't because I want to look professional and pretty. I'm not pretty in my Pj's. Unless they are sexy ones. Then I am. Of course!) So I am wearing a cute cordoroy skirt, and a cute top, and something other than boots, and no one has complimented me.
Which has gotten me thinking.... Maybe I look like crap? I mean, usually if a person looks nicer than normal, people notice. So maybe wearing a skirt doesn't make me look better? Oh well though. I want to start dressing nice to work again. So by golly! I'm going to do it!
Which has gotten me thinking.... Maybe I look like crap? I mean, usually if a person looks nicer than normal, people notice. So maybe wearing a skirt doesn't make me look better? Oh well though. I want to start dressing nice to work again. So by golly! I'm going to do it!
Someone Elses Bull Story
My friend just emailed me the funniest thing that happened to her today on the way to work. I had to share it because most of my friends that read my blog are from Texas, or at least down south and understand this somewhat common occurance. Well, maybe not this exact occurance, but at least my Texan friends will be able to relate to the common occurance of a random cow or bull running lose on the road.
"So a bull got loose from the stock yard this morning and was jogging
over to where I was walking so I had to run into the building this morning.
Guys from the stockyard were driving around yelling at it and trying to
catch it.
My boss forgot to warn me that this happens from time to time.
What a great way to start the day!"
Then later...
"My boss said that they shot the bull out in the open. Poor guy. I'll be
thinking of him when I eat my roast tonight! ...I'll have a moment of silence before I eat his cousin! ...I guess the cops came and shot him. As long as it wasn't by my car, I don't
care."
I am still laughing. My friend is Vietnamese. So I can see this cute little Vietnamese running for her life into the building! ha ha ha! I can see her now!
Poor Bull!
"So a bull got loose from the stock yard this morning and was jogging
over to where I was walking so I had to run into the building this morning.
Guys from the stockyard were driving around yelling at it and trying to
catch it.
My boss forgot to warn me that this happens from time to time.
What a great way to start the day!"
Then later...
"My boss said that they shot the bull out in the open. Poor guy. I'll be
thinking of him when I eat my roast tonight! ...I'll have a moment of silence before I eat his cousin! ...I guess the cops came and shot him. As long as it wasn't by my car, I don't
care."
I am still laughing. My friend is Vietnamese. So I can see this cute little Vietnamese running for her life into the building! ha ha ha! I can see her now!
Poor Bull!
Monday, January 30, 2006
Six HUNDRED Dollars Later!
What an expensive weekend I had!
Friday I dropped my car off at the dealer to get a my airconditioning switch fixed (It only worked on 3&4, not on 1&2), and my driver's side window put back on the track (I accidently took it off one day in the snow, when I tried to roll my window down at the drive through. Doesn't work very well in negative degree weather.) Two hours later I get a call telling me it's going to cost me $600. $470 of which go toward the window b/c they have to replace some window regulator. So we tell them no to the regulator thing, and have them just fix my switch. This cost us $250.
On Saturday, Darin and I headed out to Walmart for some neccessities. I heard some horrible noise, pull over, and walah! I have a drivers side rear tire flat. Flat as a pancake. So we put the donut on, and head off to tires plus to get it fixed. 3-4 hours later, Darin and I are still waiting for the guy to call us to tell us it's ready. I finally have D call, b/c I was on the phone with my mom. Turns out, that my tire it totally shot, and I need a new tire. So, since D and I had been shopping around for tires, and eventually (within the next two months) were going to get new tires for my car, we decided to have that done now. So an hour and a half and $360 later. I have new tires on my car.
Now for a little bit of complaining. These dudes at Tires Plus. They didn't even frickin' call us to tell us my tire was shot. WE had to call THEM! Now why wouldn't these people bother to call their customer to let them know that they couldnt' fix the tire the moment they realized the delema so they could figure out what to do with the car that is now taking up their garage???? It just makes me so mad. Here, Darin and I thought they were working on it, and they weren't doing crap! grrrrrr. It's enough to make a girl go postal!
So now I'm broke. Broker than I was last week. I really don't know how I'm going to get out of this hole. Darin told me he doesn't want me picking up another job. But he also doesn't like it when I want to go out, and he has to pay for whatever it is we do. So something has got to give! I want to work at like BBB or L&T or even P1 for 3 nights a week. I think I'm just going to do it anyway. I can't keep living like this!!!
Friday I dropped my car off at the dealer to get a my airconditioning switch fixed (It only worked on 3&4, not on 1&2), and my driver's side window put back on the track (I accidently took it off one day in the snow, when I tried to roll my window down at the drive through. Doesn't work very well in negative degree weather.) Two hours later I get a call telling me it's going to cost me $600. $470 of which go toward the window b/c they have to replace some window regulator. So we tell them no to the regulator thing, and have them just fix my switch. This cost us $250.
On Saturday, Darin and I headed out to Walmart for some neccessities. I heard some horrible noise, pull over, and walah! I have a drivers side rear tire flat. Flat as a pancake. So we put the donut on, and head off to tires plus to get it fixed. 3-4 hours later, Darin and I are still waiting for the guy to call us to tell us it's ready. I finally have D call, b/c I was on the phone with my mom. Turns out, that my tire it totally shot, and I need a new tire. So, since D and I had been shopping around for tires, and eventually (within the next two months) were going to get new tires for my car, we decided to have that done now. So an hour and a half and $360 later. I have new tires on my car.
Now for a little bit of complaining. These dudes at Tires Plus. They didn't even frickin' call us to tell us my tire was shot. WE had to call THEM! Now why wouldn't these people bother to call their customer to let them know that they couldnt' fix the tire the moment they realized the delema so they could figure out what to do with the car that is now taking up their garage???? It just makes me so mad. Here, Darin and I thought they were working on it, and they weren't doing crap! grrrrrr. It's enough to make a girl go postal!
So now I'm broke. Broker than I was last week. I really don't know how I'm going to get out of this hole. Darin told me he doesn't want me picking up another job. But he also doesn't like it when I want to go out, and he has to pay for whatever it is we do. So something has got to give! I want to work at like BBB or L&T or even P1 for 3 nights a week. I think I'm just going to do it anyway. I can't keep living like this!!!
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Shoes Like New!
I picked up my boots from the Cobbler! They look like bran new boots! I was so excited! Even though I had to throw away one pair, at least I saved myself two pairs! And saved myself some money too, because the only boots I like are $250, and that's the sale price. So I saved myself $216! I can't believe it! I'm bringing in all my shoes to this guy! I love it!
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Cookies
Are you aware of how many cookies are being installed on your computer as you serf the web? I am pretty shocked at the total amount. I recently set my security system to notify me of any cookies being installed so I can then have the choice to either accept, or deny them. It is crazy how many cookies I don't want on my computer try to attach themselves! Of course, if you don't have a security service that provides this information, I would highly recommend checking the cookies on your computer periodically, and deleting any that you would not like to be on there.
Home for Lunch
I went home to have lunch with my hubby today. It was quite nice. I got home, and made us my special grilled cheeze sandwiches. Then after eating, I decided to get a head start on my planned dinner. Swedish Meatballs. So I went ahead and mixed it up and put it into the fridge to chill until I got home. I think I might wind up coming home more often! It was quite productive!
Getting Ready to Shift
For those of you that do not pay attention to how the Retail World is going. Or for that matter, if you do pay attention, you probably aren't paying attention to my company. My company did not do well this year. We did not make our sales plan, and therefore we are not getting our bonus'. On top of all of this, there is a new direction in the company. In an attempt to become profitable, they are repositioning the focus onto Accessories. So people around the office are freaking out because people will be rearranged. This bites b/c the managers don't ask us what we would like to do, and we pretty much don't have an option as to where we are moving to.
I personally don't mind it, because I like the diversity. But I also don't want to work in Accessories again. Mainly because they are so scatterbrained over there, that you spend a lot of time running around trying to figure out what the heck it is you are supposed to be doing. Or else you spend a lot of time doing and redoing stuff that really is completely unneccessary.
Whereever I am moved to, I hope I keep my current manager. She and I think a lot a like, and she is great to work for! I could learn a lot from her. So I am mainly hoping for that. Whatever else happens I don't care too much. I figure if it's too crappy, I can easily find another job if I have to. Some people around here are totally freaking out. It makes me wonder if they think they can't find another job? I mean, this job here isn't the be all end all of jobs. There are millions of jobs similar to this, and all statistics say that the best way to get a raise in pay, is to start a new job. So I just dont' know why people freak out so bad? Either way they win. Here are the options:
1. You stay where you are - nothing changes
2. You get moved to another position and you like it
3. You get moved to another position and you don't like it - well, start looking, you'll find
something that pays better, and you just might be a little happier with your job.
4. You get laid off - You get a severance package, therefore you don't miss out on any pay, while
looking for a higher paying gig.
I personally don't mind it, because I like the diversity. But I also don't want to work in Accessories again. Mainly because they are so scatterbrained over there, that you spend a lot of time running around trying to figure out what the heck it is you are supposed to be doing. Or else you spend a lot of time doing and redoing stuff that really is completely unneccessary.
Whereever I am moved to, I hope I keep my current manager. She and I think a lot a like, and she is great to work for! I could learn a lot from her. So I am mainly hoping for that. Whatever else happens I don't care too much. I figure if it's too crappy, I can easily find another job if I have to. Some people around here are totally freaking out. It makes me wonder if they think they can't find another job? I mean, this job here isn't the be all end all of jobs. There are millions of jobs similar to this, and all statistics say that the best way to get a raise in pay, is to start a new job. So I just dont' know why people freak out so bad? Either way they win. Here are the options:
1. You stay where you are - nothing changes
2. You get moved to another position and you like it
3. You get moved to another position and you don't like it - well, start looking, you'll find
something that pays better, and you just might be a little happier with your job.
4. You get laid off - You get a severance package, therefore you don't miss out on any pay, while
looking for a higher paying gig.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Brrrrr
It is 6 degrees out. I didn't want to get out of my car to go into work this morning. I still am shivering. I've been here for an hour. Brrrrrr!!!!
Thursday, January 19, 2006
What are the Six Official Languages of the United Nations?
I got 5 out of the 6! I was very impressed with myself.
Answer:
Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish.
I guessed, German instead of Russian. :o(
Answer:
Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish.
I guessed, German instead of Russian. :o(
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Sex in the City
I totally had a Carrie moment (ironic aint it? That my name is already Kerry). I finally took in my 3 pairs of shoes to the Cobbler to get fixed. One pair, was my favorite pair, which I've only worn twice. TWICE! The guy told me he could make 2 pairs look just like new, but the BCBG shoes, my favorite pair, he said, "all done. nothing I can do, throw them out."
What? Throw them out? They are my favorite. I can't throw them out! But what I am I going to do with a pair of shoes with one broken stilletto? I can't wear them, but I just can't seem to throw them out. I think I'll look online and see if BCBG has some sort of policy to fix their shoes. That's what I did with my Kenneth Cole Handbag. They fixed it for me, and mailed it back to me!
What? Throw them out? They are my favorite. I can't throw them out! But what I am I going to do with a pair of shoes with one broken stilletto? I can't wear them, but I just can't seem to throw them out. I think I'll look online and see if BCBG has some sort of policy to fix their shoes. That's what I did with my Kenneth Cole Handbag. They fixed it for me, and mailed it back to me!
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Girl Scout Cookies
I love Girl Scout Cookies. Actually, I just love the Thin Mints! Every year I have to stock up so I can make it through the entire year. So far here is the tally of my addiction.
Thin Mints: 8
Samoas/Crml Dlts: 6
Thks alot: 4
Cafe Cookies: 1
Total of $66.00
I think I have a problem. I just looked over these totals, and I feel like I don't have enough cookies!!! I better order more.
Thin Mints: 8
Samoas/Crml Dlts: 6
Thks alot: 4
Cafe Cookies: 1
Total of $66.00
I think I have a problem. I just looked over these totals, and I feel like I don't have enough cookies!!! I better order more.
Can't Argue with A Fortune Cookie!
I can't really argue with a fortune cookie can I? I mean, they alway ring completely true right? I think I have to agree with this one. tee hee hee :o)I got the first one the first week I started at this job. The bottom one is the one I just got today. I believe the fortune cookie is very wise. Unagi!
Monday, January 16, 2006
Pedicures
I went with two of my girlfriends to get pedicures this weekend. I haven't gotten a pedicure since I got married. So a year and a half. So it was pretty imbarrassing when my lady took out the razor blade to scrape the dead skin off of my feet! My friends and I were talking, then all of a sudden the attention went to my feet. So I start yelling, "Don't look at my feet! I'm so ashamed!!!" ha ha ha! Now, my feet are very pretty, and I will now keep them looking that way. There is just something about having pretty feet that just makes you feel so much better about yourself!
Thursday, January 12, 2006
I Love it When NoOne Is Here!
I love working alone. No one is here because they are at a floorset. A floorset I am supposed to be at, but my team is in meetings so I am not. Which means I will have a late night. Which pisses me off. Thursday nights are the only good TV nights left!
Anyway. No one is here and I am doing what I want, getting things done, and enjoying myself!
I wish it would be like this all the time. This is what makes me think I might be alright with working from home somewhere. I think I need to look into my own business more closely and more seriously.
Anyway. No one is here and I am doing what I want, getting things done, and enjoying myself!
I wish it would be like this all the time. This is what makes me think I might be alright with working from home somewhere. I think I need to look into my own business more closely and more seriously.
Dangerous to Read Blogs
It's very VERY dangerous to read other people's blogs while at work.
I was bored and no one is blogging or IMing today, so I decided to read some other people's blogs. I picked one that sounded harmless. It wasn't like BigFreakyStud@blogger.com or anything. So the website comes up and it's pictures of naked men all bonded up and stuff!!!! I freaked out! (But wanted to look on at the same time.) So I had to quick find the X and close it out before any traitor coworkers or my boss walked by. It was freaky!!!! I'm not doing that again. I'll just sit here and be bored if I have to.
Want to know a secret? I sort of wish I new the blogger site, so I could look at home. teee hee.
I was bored and no one is blogging or IMing today, so I decided to read some other people's blogs. I picked one that sounded harmless. It wasn't like BigFreakyStud@blogger.com or anything. So the website comes up and it's pictures of naked men all bonded up and stuff!!!! I freaked out! (But wanted to look on at the same time.) So I had to quick find the X and close it out before any traitor coworkers or my boss walked by. It was freaky!!!! I'm not doing that again. I'll just sit here and be bored if I have to.
Want to know a secret? I sort of wish I new the blogger site, so I could look at home. teee hee.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Internet
I finally had the internet setup at my house. Did I tell this story already? Hmm... I just checked, I don't think I did. Basically, I was looking for internet service, and thinking about getting it, but it was like $60/mo. So I wasn't going to get it. I thought I'd just go use the library, or use it at work if that was the cheapest I could get it. So then, one night, the Comcast guy comes to my door, and says they are running a special for $19.99 for 6 months. No contract required. Free installation. So I said, "heck yeah! I'm interested!" So that night he gave me the equiptment, and I have been online ever since!
I totally am loving it. I am so glad I decided to to take the guy up on his offer, now if I am wondering what movies are showing, or how to get to the nearest Sams club, I can look it up! Yeah! How did people ever live without the internet?
I totally am loving it. I am so glad I decided to to take the guy up on his offer, now if I am wondering what movies are showing, or how to get to the nearest Sams club, I can look it up! Yeah! How did people ever live without the internet?
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
New Cabinets!
Two things. I figured out how to upload photos, and I GOT NEW CABINETS! Woo hoo!
My apartment complex is remodeling all the apartments, so I got these fancy new cabinets last week. The microwave is being replaced tomorrow. I got all new everything! Fridge, sink, dishwasher, stove, countertops, cabinets... You name it! I also got all new sink and cabinets in my bathroom. Thursday they are coming to lay down new Linolieum.
My apartment complex is remodeling all the apartments, so I got these fancy new cabinets last week. The microwave is being replaced tomorrow. I got all new everything! Fridge, sink, dishwasher, stove, countertops, cabinets... You name it! I also got all new sink and cabinets in my bathroom. Thursday they are coming to lay down new Linolieum.
Personality Test
I am a Type A- Personality
My friend Cesar has this personality test on his blog. I took it. I'm a A-.A-:You are one of the most balanced people around.Motivated and focused, you are good at getting what you want.You rule at success, but success doesn't rule you. When it's playtime, you really know how to kick back. Whether it's hanging out with friends or doing something you love! You live life to the fullest - incorporating the best of both worlds.I think I agree!
My friend Cesar has this personality test on his blog. I took it. I'm a A-.A-:You are one of the most balanced people around.Motivated and focused, you are good at getting what you want.You rule at success, but success doesn't rule you. When it's playtime, you really know how to kick back. Whether it's hanging out with friends or doing something you love! You live life to the fullest - incorporating the best of both worlds.I think I agree!
Trivia Question
In What War did Mary Edwards Walker
- The only woman ever awarded a Congressional Medal of Honor - serve?
I got this one right!
Civil War - The first female doctor in the US Army, she served on the front lines and crossed enemy lines to tend to the wounded. Captured by the Confederates, she was freed in a prisoner exchange.
- The only woman ever awarded a Congressional Medal of Honor - serve?
I got this one right!
Civil War - The first female doctor in the US Army, she served on the front lines and crossed enemy lines to tend to the wounded. Captured by the Confederates, she was freed in a prisoner exchange.
What CEOs Make in My Industry
WILSONS LEATHER: Mr. Michael M. Searles , 57 Chairman and Chief Exec. Officer $245M
PIER 1: Mr. Marvin J. Girouard , 66 Chairman, Chief Exec. Officer and Member of Exec. Committee $1.00M
TARGET: Mr. Robert J. Ulrich , 62 Chairman, Chief Exec. Officer, Chairman of Exec. Committee, Chairman of the Board -Target Stores and Chief Exec. Officer -Target Stores
$ 6.57M
PIER 1: Mr. Marvin J. Girouard , 66 Chairman, Chief Exec. Officer and Member of Exec. Committee $1.00M
TARGET: Mr. Robert J. Ulrich , 62 Chairman, Chief Exec. Officer, Chairman of Exec. Committee, Chairman of the Board -Target Stores and Chief Exec. Officer -Target Stores
$ 6.57M
The Dentist
I had a 7:00am apointment this morning to have two fillings replaced. I completely forgot what this entails. So the lady goes, I'll prep you for your novicaine. Then sticks two q tips in my mouth. So I think this is the novicaine. My face is going numb, so this is it right? WRONG. The dentist comes in shortly after, and brings out this HUGE needle. Then he stabs into me. Not once, not twice, not three time, but FOUR times! The stuff was leeking and it went down my throat, it tasted aweful!!! Now, I have never been one of those people that freak out at the dentist office. I have never really cared. But today, while he was doing this, I was having second thoughts. I was actually thinking I should have gone to one of those sedation dentistry dudes.
So after I'm quite well numbed, he says, "here we go!" (I guess that was supposed to be funny or something), and he starts carving away at my old filling. Once he gets my two old fillings out he says, "well, you've got a really big cavity developing under one of the fillings". Then he proceeds to dig the cavity out of my tooth. At one point, I made the mistake of touching my tongue to the area he was working on. EEEK!!! I swear I had no tooth left!!!!!!
One hour later, I had two new fillings in my mouth. Right now, I am trying to drink my Caribou Coffee, and hoping to God that I don't spill it everywhere. I have no ability to suck because I have no feeling in the sides of my mouth. I actually tried to rub my lips together, you know, how you do after you apply lipstick, and I think I now know how a stroke victim feels. I couldn't get them together, much less rub them if I ever got them together!!! It really bites. I can't wait until this shit wears off.
Now my fillings feel like sandpaper. I am hoping they don't really feel that way when my face come back to me. Otherwise, I'll be back at the dentist.
So after I'm quite well numbed, he says, "here we go!" (I guess that was supposed to be funny or something), and he starts carving away at my old filling. Once he gets my two old fillings out he says, "well, you've got a really big cavity developing under one of the fillings". Then he proceeds to dig the cavity out of my tooth. At one point, I made the mistake of touching my tongue to the area he was working on. EEEK!!! I swear I had no tooth left!!!!!!
One hour later, I had two new fillings in my mouth. Right now, I am trying to drink my Caribou Coffee, and hoping to God that I don't spill it everywhere. I have no ability to suck because I have no feeling in the sides of my mouth. I actually tried to rub my lips together, you know, how you do after you apply lipstick, and I think I now know how a stroke victim feels. I couldn't get them together, much less rub them if I ever got them together!!! It really bites. I can't wait until this shit wears off.
Now my fillings feel like sandpaper. I am hoping they don't really feel that way when my face come back to me. Otherwise, I'll be back at the dentist.
Monday, January 09, 2006
Qdoba Boy
For several months now my friend Katie and I have been going to Qdoba at least once a week (sometimes more, we love the stuff!) There is a guy there that is really cute and nice, whom we totally have a crush on. Every time we go in there, Katie is all giggly and we are retarded. So we decided that we were too stupid to do anything about our little crush (which by the way, would be to hook her up with him).
Which brings us to today. Darin came out to lunch with us. (He knows the whole saga.) So he decides to take the matter into his own hands. Mind you, this guy that we like, is also pretty friendly with us, so it is possible that he might be interested. It is also possible that he's just friendly too though. So Darin writes on a napkin, "Katie, phone#, call her." So when we are walking out. Katie and I bolt out the door. Inconspicuously of course. And Darin stays behind to give the napkin to this guy! It was so hilarious because I was nervous for Katie! She felt like a total dork too. We decided if this guy doesn't call her, or if he calls her to tell her that he has a girlfriend, then we have to stop going to Qdoba and start going to Chipotle (which would really suck because a. Chipotle isn't as good, and b. Chipotle doesn't have frequent shopper club). So now both Katie and I are a little nervous. I have a reputation to uphold. I can't be considered a nerd. I am cool, and cool to hang out with! So this guy better call her, so we can continue to eat there!
Which brings us to today. Darin came out to lunch with us. (He knows the whole saga.) So he decides to take the matter into his own hands. Mind you, this guy that we like, is also pretty friendly with us, so it is possible that he might be interested. It is also possible that he's just friendly too though. So Darin writes on a napkin, "Katie, phone#, call her." So when we are walking out. Katie and I bolt out the door. Inconspicuously of course. And Darin stays behind to give the napkin to this guy! It was so hilarious because I was nervous for Katie! She felt like a total dork too. We decided if this guy doesn't call her, or if he calls her to tell her that he has a girlfriend, then we have to stop going to Qdoba and start going to Chipotle (which would really suck because a. Chipotle isn't as good, and b. Chipotle doesn't have frequent shopper club). So now both Katie and I are a little nervous. I have a reputation to uphold. I can't be considered a nerd. I am cool, and cool to hang out with! So this guy better call her, so we can continue to eat there!
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Which is the Highest of the Seven Continents?
Antarctica. Because of it's thick ice cover, it has the highest average elevation of all the continents.
hmm.... who knew!?
hmm.... who knew!?
Favorite Foods for Losing Weight
by Susan Woodward for MSN Health & Fitness
Why does the concept of weight loss conjure up images of, frankly, unappetizing foods? Why do carrot sticks always spring to mind? The answer seems to lie in the common delusion that to pare pounds you have to barely eat, and the calories you do eat should be no more than required by a mouse. But researchers are repeatedly finding that food quality is more important than quantity when it comes to weight loss. Combined with adequate exercise, your meals can be regular serving sizes. The food just needs to be, well, wholesome.
“We’ve lost sight of that word—diet,” says Kristina Campbell, runner up in a recent weight-loss challenge held in Phoenix, Ariz. “Diet used to mean what your food is for the day, not losing weight.”
Below, Kristina and clinical nutritionist and author of Dare to Lose, Shari Lieberman, Ph.D., pinpoint some essential healthy foods for anyone who wants to lose weight and/or retain good health.
1. Yams and sweet potatoes.
Great diet foods because they’re low on the so-called glycemic index, says Dr. Lieberman. The glycemic index measures the values of various foods based on how quickly they break down and are absorbed into the bloodstream. The slower the digestion, the lower the score, the better the food is for regulating blood sugars, insulin, and overall metabolism—all of which affect fat deposition.
2. Oranges, apples and grapefruit.
Dr. Lieberman recommends these particular fruits because they contain high levels of the soluble fiber pectin. Fiber slows digestion, helps eliminate toxins stored in body fat, and gives you a feeling of fullness.
3. Killer sandwiches.
To lose 40 pounds in 21 weeks, Kristina relied on plenty of hearty sandwiches stacked with vegetables, such as tomato, cucumber, sprouts, lettuce and onion, as well as deli meats – but always oven-roasted turkey over anything vacuum-packed. For bread choice, Kristina suggests anything brown with lots of seeds and heavy grains you can actually see, because less-milled ingredients contain much more fiber.
4. Cereal.
They can be a little hard to find, but low-sugar cereals packed with protein and fiber are hitting the market. The Kashi brand is one of the best, says Kristina. “I eat my cereal with skim milk and blackberries or raspberries, which contain about 8g of fiber per cup. That’s like three or four slices of bread!”
5. Salad
“If you eat a salad, make it valuable,” suggests Kristina, also a former five-star chef from New York City. “Get field or Asian greens and add a yogurt dressing. Plus you need a ton of vegetables and some good lean protein, like grilled salmon.”
6. Quiche
Quiche made with egg whites and just a couple of yolks is one of Kristina’s favorite protein sources. She also tosses in a little low-fat cheese, broccoli and spinach.
7. Yogurt
And other dairy goods that come in great-tasting, low-fat products.
8. Almonds
Nuts are loaded with monounsaturated fats—the good fats that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, known to lower cholesterol. Fats are as necessary to a healthy diet as protein and carbohydrates. “I recommend that 20 percent of calories come from [healthy] fat,” Dr. Lieberman says. Small amounts of nuts are a good starting point.
9. Peanut butter
Likewise, nut butters are a great source of those healthy, monounsaturated fats. Kristina likes unsalted, all natural brands of peanut butter. But almond or cashew butter is considered an even healthier option (especially if you’re allergic to peanuts!). Enjoy your favorite, but in moderation
10. Hummus.
AKA pureed chickpeas, garlic, and a little lemon juice. Great with whole-wheat pita bread or organic corn chips.
11. Salsa.
Another favorite for dipping, and a homemade batch is easy to make. Fresh salsa is simply tomato, onion, jalapeno and cilantro. Now, tell me, what could possibly be unhealthy about that?
Why does the concept of weight loss conjure up images of, frankly, unappetizing foods? Why do carrot sticks always spring to mind? The answer seems to lie in the common delusion that to pare pounds you have to barely eat, and the calories you do eat should be no more than required by a mouse. But researchers are repeatedly finding that food quality is more important than quantity when it comes to weight loss. Combined with adequate exercise, your meals can be regular serving sizes. The food just needs to be, well, wholesome.
“We’ve lost sight of that word—diet,” says Kristina Campbell, runner up in a recent weight-loss challenge held in Phoenix, Ariz. “Diet used to mean what your food is for the day, not losing weight.”
Below, Kristina and clinical nutritionist and author of Dare to Lose, Shari Lieberman, Ph.D., pinpoint some essential healthy foods for anyone who wants to lose weight and/or retain good health.
1. Yams and sweet potatoes.
Great diet foods because they’re low on the so-called glycemic index, says Dr. Lieberman. The glycemic index measures the values of various foods based on how quickly they break down and are absorbed into the bloodstream. The slower the digestion, the lower the score, the better the food is for regulating blood sugars, insulin, and overall metabolism—all of which affect fat deposition.
2. Oranges, apples and grapefruit.
Dr. Lieberman recommends these particular fruits because they contain high levels of the soluble fiber pectin. Fiber slows digestion, helps eliminate toxins stored in body fat, and gives you a feeling of fullness.
3. Killer sandwiches.
To lose 40 pounds in 21 weeks, Kristina relied on plenty of hearty sandwiches stacked with vegetables, such as tomato, cucumber, sprouts, lettuce and onion, as well as deli meats – but always oven-roasted turkey over anything vacuum-packed. For bread choice, Kristina suggests anything brown with lots of seeds and heavy grains you can actually see, because less-milled ingredients contain much more fiber.
4. Cereal.
They can be a little hard to find, but low-sugar cereals packed with protein and fiber are hitting the market. The Kashi brand is one of the best, says Kristina. “I eat my cereal with skim milk and blackberries or raspberries, which contain about 8g of fiber per cup. That’s like three or four slices of bread!”
5. Salad
“If you eat a salad, make it valuable,” suggests Kristina, also a former five-star chef from New York City. “Get field or Asian greens and add a yogurt dressing. Plus you need a ton of vegetables and some good lean protein, like grilled salmon.”
6. Quiche
Quiche made with egg whites and just a couple of yolks is one of Kristina’s favorite protein sources. She also tosses in a little low-fat cheese, broccoli and spinach.
7. Yogurt
And other dairy goods that come in great-tasting, low-fat products.
8. Almonds
Nuts are loaded with monounsaturated fats—the good fats that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, known to lower cholesterol. Fats are as necessary to a healthy diet as protein and carbohydrates. “I recommend that 20 percent of calories come from [healthy] fat,” Dr. Lieberman says. Small amounts of nuts are a good starting point.
9. Peanut butter
Likewise, nut butters are a great source of those healthy, monounsaturated fats. Kristina likes unsalted, all natural brands of peanut butter. But almond or cashew butter is considered an even healthier option (especially if you’re allergic to peanuts!). Enjoy your favorite, but in moderation
10. Hummus.
AKA pureed chickpeas, garlic, and a little lemon juice. Great with whole-wheat pita bread or organic corn chips.
11. Salsa.
Another favorite for dipping, and a homemade batch is easy to make. Fresh salsa is simply tomato, onion, jalapeno and cilantro. Now, tell me, what could possibly be unhealthy about that?
Goals for 2006
Taking another page from Kai's Blog, here are my 2006 Goals as they stand so far:
Work Goals
- Go upstairs to the bathroom each time I need to go (More exercise)
- Walk on the treadmill for 10 minutes at least once a day
- Have more patience with stupid people in my office
- Improve on my “networking” skills
- Eat out only 2 times a week.
Personal Goals
- Find a living situation that is more cohesive to my life’s master plan
- Come up with a life’s master plan
- Eat better, work out at least 3 times a week (see game plan for workouts)
- Be a positive influence to married couples in trouble
- Keep better verbal contact with my friends far awayLearn to be more tactful, and less brutally honest
- Take care of my feet
Sickness
I think the sickness is finally catching up to me. I started to get a sore throat last night. Then I couldn't sleep because I kept snoring due to all the flem in my throat. At one point in time I woke up because I heard a clicking in my vent when the heater turned on. I then couldn't fall back asleep. Then! Then! I started to hear my next door neighbor snoring! snoring!!!!! So I had to put my ear plugs in.
When I woke up this morning, my whole body hurt. I'm having a feeling I'm not going to be feeling very well shortly. But I have tried to combat it. I took extra vitamen C, and brought some cough drops.
When I woke up this morning, my whole body hurt. I'm having a feeling I'm not going to be feeling very well shortly. But I have tried to combat it. I took extra vitamen C, and brought some cough drops.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Daily Trivia
My brother-in-law came me one of those trivia calendars for Christmas. I am sure I'll be tired of it in about a month, if I even make it that far. But right now I am in to it.
1/1/06: When it comes to champagne, waht is a punt? (Did you think something dirty like I did?)
1/2/06: To What family of animals do the Chinstrap, Macaroni, and Gentoo belong? (Again, did you think something dirty like me?)
1/3/06: What Hollywood actress, as an 11-month-old, was featured in a TV commercial for Gainesburger puppy food?
1/1: The dome shaped indentation in the bottom of the bottle.
1/2/06: Penguin. All three are Antarctic penguins.
1/3/06: Drew Barrymore. She made her feature film debut at age five in "Altered States" in 1980.
1/1/06: When it comes to champagne, waht is a punt? (Did you think something dirty like I did?)
1/2/06: To What family of animals do the Chinstrap, Macaroni, and Gentoo belong? (Again, did you think something dirty like me?)
1/3/06: What Hollywood actress, as an 11-month-old, was featured in a TV commercial for Gainesburger puppy food?
1/1: The dome shaped indentation in the bottom of the bottle.
1/2/06: Penguin. All three are Antarctic penguins.
1/3/06: Drew Barrymore. She made her feature film debut at age five in "Altered States" in 1980.
Dating & Relating - Are You Better Off Single?
After a string of horrible dates or a particularly bad breakup, it’s easy to think dating is for the birds. So, are you better off single? Take this quiz to find out!
1. Your last serious relationship was:
Excruciating. I couldn’t wait for it to end. (Score = -1)
Smothering. My partner cared much more than I did. (Score = 1)
Frustrating. I cared much more than my partner did. (Score = 2)
Decent. It was nice while it lasted, but I wasn’t devastated by the break-up. (Score = 3)
Fulfilling. I like being a couple. (Score = 4)
2. How would you describe your last three dates?
Bad. Why are losers so attracted to me? (Score = -1)
Boring. I’d rather stay home and watch Lost. (Score = 1)
One-sided. I liked them, they didn’t like me. (Score = 2)
Not bad... but not good either. (Score = 3)
Great. I had fun, even though no sparks flew. (Score = 4)
3. Which movie best describes your experience with love:
Singles. I can’t seem to find love at all. (Score = -1)
Fatal Attraction. I can be a freak magnet. (Score = 1)
The (Fru)st(r)ation Agent. I feel like a misfit of love. (Score = 2)
The Kids are Alright. I’ve been in relationships with a lot of nice people. (Score = 3)
High Fidelity. I keep learning from my previous relationship mistakes, and I know there’s someone out there for me. (Score = 4)
4. Your soul mate:
May not exist. (Score = -1)
Wouldn’t need a straightjacket. (Score = 1)
Is dating your best friend. (Score = 2)
Will take some work to find—but is out there. (Score = 3)
Hey, there may be more than one—and you can’t wait to meet ‘em! (Score = 4)
5. You think of true love as:
Something invented by Hollywood. (Score = -1)
A bed of nails. Maybe Nazareth was right when they sang, “Love hurts.” (Score = 1)
Very hard to find. (Score = 2)
Possible, but I’m not sure how to get it. (Score = 3)
Totally worth working for. (Score = 4)
SCORING: Less than 0: Ouch. You’ve been out of the love light for a long time and have a pessimistic view of the whole idea, so you need to do something to shake off the dust. Sign up for a class, a book group, or some other activity you enjoy. By getting out and living your life, you increase your chances of finding someone who’d like to live it with you!0-5: You’ve had some bad experiences with love, but blaming your dates isn’t going to change anything. Dating is a two-way street. Yes, oddballs might be attracted to you, but you’re choosing them, too. Take responsibility and take a look at why you’re choosing to date these people. Then take some steps to change the patterns you’re perpetuating.6-10: You’re unsure of your prospects. Start thinking positively—and take some concrete action to improve your chances. Ask friends to set you up. Post or update your online dating profile and start looking for love in all the right places.11-15: You’re keeping hope alive, and that’s very attractive. But you could do a little more to attract a mate. Ask friends to help you identify your strong points—and your weak ones. Then emphasize the positive and improve the negative.16-20: You’re a believer, baby! It’s only a matter of time till Cupid works his magic on you!
Margot Carmichael Lester is a North Carolina-based writer and author of The Real Life Guide to Life After College.
1. Your last serious relationship was:
Excruciating. I couldn’t wait for it to end. (Score = -1)
Smothering. My partner cared much more than I did. (Score = 1)
Frustrating. I cared much more than my partner did. (Score = 2)
Decent. It was nice while it lasted, but I wasn’t devastated by the break-up. (Score = 3)
Fulfilling. I like being a couple. (Score = 4)
2. How would you describe your last three dates?
Bad. Why are losers so attracted to me? (Score = -1)
Boring. I’d rather stay home and watch Lost. (Score = 1)
One-sided. I liked them, they didn’t like me. (Score = 2)
Not bad... but not good either. (Score = 3)
Great. I had fun, even though no sparks flew. (Score = 4)
3. Which movie best describes your experience with love:
Singles. I can’t seem to find love at all. (Score = -1)
Fatal Attraction. I can be a freak magnet. (Score = 1)
The (Fru)st(r)ation Agent. I feel like a misfit of love. (Score = 2)
The Kids are Alright. I’ve been in relationships with a lot of nice people. (Score = 3)
High Fidelity. I keep learning from my previous relationship mistakes, and I know there’s someone out there for me. (Score = 4)
4. Your soul mate:
May not exist. (Score = -1)
Wouldn’t need a straightjacket. (Score = 1)
Is dating your best friend. (Score = 2)
Will take some work to find—but is out there. (Score = 3)
Hey, there may be more than one—and you can’t wait to meet ‘em! (Score = 4)
5. You think of true love as:
Something invented by Hollywood. (Score = -1)
A bed of nails. Maybe Nazareth was right when they sang, “Love hurts.” (Score = 1)
Very hard to find. (Score = 2)
Possible, but I’m not sure how to get it. (Score = 3)
Totally worth working for. (Score = 4)
SCORING: Less than 0: Ouch. You’ve been out of the love light for a long time and have a pessimistic view of the whole idea, so you need to do something to shake off the dust. Sign up for a class, a book group, or some other activity you enjoy. By getting out and living your life, you increase your chances of finding someone who’d like to live it with you!0-5: You’ve had some bad experiences with love, but blaming your dates isn’t going to change anything. Dating is a two-way street. Yes, oddballs might be attracted to you, but you’re choosing them, too. Take responsibility and take a look at why you’re choosing to date these people. Then take some steps to change the patterns you’re perpetuating.6-10: You’re unsure of your prospects. Start thinking positively—and take some concrete action to improve your chances. Ask friends to set you up. Post or update your online dating profile and start looking for love in all the right places.11-15: You’re keeping hope alive, and that’s very attractive. But you could do a little more to attract a mate. Ask friends to help you identify your strong points—and your weak ones. Then emphasize the positive and improve the negative.16-20: You’re a believer, baby! It’s only a matter of time till Cupid works his magic on you!
Margot Carmichael Lester is a North Carolina-based writer and author of The Real Life Guide to Life After College.
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