A Different Me

Oh Dear!!! I'm Busted!

2011-11-29T14:04:00.000-08:00

Ok, confession time.
I was doing so good before Turkey Day (Thanksgiving). I actually lost 9lbs which brought me down to 150lbs. I was so happy because I was not far from being in the 140's again. Well, well, well! That dang turkey and fixins' really fixed my tail, lol. I'm embrassed to say that I gained it all back. So now I'm 159 again. Sniff, sniff! Dang stuffing, potote salad, rice, yams, greens, gravy, turkey!!! Oh and let's not forget about my dessert plate, sniff, sniff, whaahaaaa!!!! What was I thinking?! It is what it is. Then of course you know the next day I still was eating as if I missed Thanksgiving, ugh! Double UGH!!!
EXHALE!
I need to take a pic of my 159 self and post it. I will. Now I'm going to go and do what I need to do. My doctors will not be disappointed in my weight. I will be happy and so will they.

When I did drop the 9 pounds, these size 10 were so huge on me. I was getting excited because I knew I could be in a size 6 in no time. Now I need more time, lol, lol! Oh dear!

Yesterday and today I ate horribly. Today I had cheese curls, peanut butter jelly sandwich, candy, a juicy burger, and a sprite soda. Not used to drinking sodas, so when I did, I nearly choked. So back to pure water, my good friend.

I will try and find a recent pic. I did cut my hair. It's very low and I like it. I will show in the next post if not tonight. It's in a mohawk now.

So I'm starting my renal diet (again, lol) tommorrow. As I am typing, I am eating this coconut pie that is so darn good. I will wash it down with a cup of cold milk.

Thanks for reading!!!

Just Angela!

Start Weight Again

2011-11-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

I believe I started my weight @ 163lbs. I was too scared to weigh myself when I did that last post because I didn't want to face the music. Ugh! Plus I was feeling down in the dumps from the weight gain.

Progress Report

So far I have been doing well, but I know it can be better. Instead of eating raw cabbage, I steam it just a bit and add a little butter for taste. Where all before I wouldn't add butter or steam it. I know I lost a couple of pounds because I feel and see how my stomach is getting smaller. I will be weighing myself Monday so stay tuned. Yes, I will take a picture of the scale w/my weight. Since I have been eating better, I have been feeling better. I drink strictly water (not in the beginning, lol). My skin looks brighter and healthier too.

Before I got serious, my weakness was eating homemade raw cookie dough. Mmm hmm good! Nothing like some tasty cookie dough. What is wrong with me, lol. Then I went through the phase of wanting a slice of chocolate cake from a local bakery. Oh lawd! Don't get me started! I would make visits to the bakery at least once a week. Shame, shame. So then later I started eating little pieces of candy. Ie, skittles, werthers, whoppers, starburst, etc...then finally I stopped. I notice when I consume sweets I start to break out in a heavy sweat.

Then finally I got the sweet tooth munchies out of my mouth. However, I started craving SALTY SNACKS! Doritos buffalo ranch, regular, chips, pretzels, heavy butter popcorn, etc...yes, I went in for the kill. Of course I paid for it. Ankles were swollen as ever! Legs tight and mouth dry. It took a while. Baby steps, right?! Cuz if I cold turkey the snacks then it will back fire and I will go on a binge.

Needles to say I have been doing a light workout. Stretching, squats, light weights and crunches when I watching t.v. I do look forward to Monday's weigh in.

Ok, stay encourage and I wish everyone the best in everything!

Thanks for reading lovely people

Lady A

Back on the Grind/ Weight Loss Operation Starts Now

2011-11-01T17:37:00.000-07:00

I need to lose a good 15-20lbs! Yes I gained due to salty and fatty foods. When I first gained 5 pounds I thought nothing of it. No big deal, right? I can easily get that off. Well 5 pounds turned into 10 pounds and then it went to 15lbs. Oh brother!!! Arms are big, stomach hanging over, can barely get in my size 6 without using my oxygen tank and my joints are so stiff. Not good!

I know what to do, but it seems like certain foods and sweets set me back. I miss being skinny and fitting into a 4. I miss my thighs not touching. I think that is so sexy. I miss putting on anything in my closet not worrying if it's gonna fit or not. I miss having small boobs. I'm tired of pushing my big boobs into this little bra. Not a smooth look.

Arruuuggghhhh!!!! How did I let this happen :0( I know how I did.

It's ok because I will get back on my grind with it all. I haven't even weighed myself because I was too scared. However I can comfortably fit into a size 8/10. My doctors told me to get back on the renal diet because I have gained weight. So the next time I go back to the office, I would like to be very close to 130's.

Then I will reveal the before pic, lol. Ok?

Just know that I have been eating everything I should not be eating. Now it stops (after I guzzle down this root beer and see what else I can have b4 2morrow). Sad huh? Well, it is what it is. I have set my goal and I will reach it by the end of this year.

I should reward myself with a mini shopping spree. Better yet a new fragrance and a pair of shoes will do just fine.

Ok readers, keep me in your prayers as I drop the excess weight off...again.

New Addition To the Family. Congrats To Me! It's a Boy!!!!

2011-10-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

Hello lovely people! Let's welcome Toby!!! Oh he is the best thing ever that has happened to me. Some of you all know about my health condition. If not, well it's lung, heart, and kidney disease along with rheumatoid arthritis and LUPUS, yuck!

So I have been (before I got the puppy) down, sad, discouraged, bummed, confused, suicidal, and distant from reality. I would take pain meds to numb myself. I looked at my life as a nightmare so therefore I always wanted to sleep. With the help of percocet, diladuad, tramadol and vicodine I would be SLEEPY!!! Then I started not to care about important things/people.

I am no longer on oxygen, but I'm on flolan, which is a cather in my chest (never comes out) and a lung pump machine that gives my med around the clock. It's complicated but I manage. I can't take baths, swim, and other things.

Off of that...too much...

I needed something to live for (until I get out of this slump). Most of my doctors advise me to get a puppy. It will help me out. My hubby discouraged me from getting it, but I was determine. My husband didn't know how bad off I was mentally because I put on a front and made it seem like everything is ok. Finally, after a 10 month search, I found the right pooch for me.

He's a shih tzu and is now 4 months old. All black with a little white under his chest. He came potty trained! I'm so happy to have him. It took me a while to warm up to him, but as time went on I became more confident. Toby keeps me laughing. So innocent. Getting into things. Chewing on shoes, etc. I love him. I am so happy and so are my children. Even my hubby is enjoying him. Toby is my baby. I said I wouldn't put clothes on a dog, well guess what, lol. Yup, I sure did. Brought him this pajama from Target, lol.

They say pets help the sick. I agree. Toby keeps me on my toes. I was watching a program on tv and they said that a chemical is released in your body when you rub/pet an animal and it help heal the body or something like that. Pet are very therapeutic. If you want one, please do get one.

I think I'm ready to blog again...it took a while but I'm here.

Thanks for the comments. I will update my weight, etc....but I will say I did gain, lol...stay tuned!

Just Angela!

2010 Pics! Size 4/6

2010-12-18T18:59:00.000-08:00

I'll be updating again in Jan. 2011! This years has been trying time in my life due to health issues, but by God's grace I'm here! Hope everyone had a great year. Love you all and stay tuned! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Breakfast and Dinner

2010-04-14T05:11:00.000-07:00

Simple breakfast:

-1/2 English muffin

-1/2 cup of pineapples (I put several dashes of cinnamon on it)

-1/2 cup of blueberries

-1 teaspoon of unsalted butter

-4 shrimp (1 0z.)

-1/2 cup of lettuce (no dressing but I use apple vinegar)

-5 steamed asparagus

-1/2 cup of blueberries

-1 apple

water

Weigh In Monday!

2010-04-12T05:02:00.000-07:00

Can you believe this? My jaw dropped when I saw this number. 129lbs? Are you serious? I stepped on the scale several times thinking something was wrong with it. Never in my life or I can't really recall seeing this number! So the last time I weighed in I was 135lbs. I lost 6lbs. I'm still eating the same way.

I am no longer a size 20, 18, 16, 14, 12, or a 10! When I put on my size 8 jeans, they were baggy! I asked my daughter could I try on her size 6 jeans. The size 6 jeans fit me wonderfully! I can't believe I'm in a size 6! CRAZY! You can really slim down just by eating the right portion size and 3 meals a day with no snack.

This picture was taken Saturday. I was going to a wedding.

I was on Spring Break all last week and forgot to tell you all. I apologize if you thought I was MIA. I trust and hope everyone had a Happy Easter/Resurrection Day and Spring Break.

~Angela~

Weigh In/I hurt my foot!

2010-04-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

I'm making this quick cuz I'm sleepy from pain medicine.

I got an x ray done on my foot cuz I thought it was broken, but it wasn't. Dr. said I bruised it up badly and to ice it. I weighed myself on Friday morning because I wanted to see where I was at. Scale said 135.8! I didn't weigh myself today because of my foot (I had to sleep on the couch).

So 135 it is! 2 weeks, 8 pounds lost! Remember I said I wasn't going to be eating meat for dinner, well I see the results! Lovely ones, I am doing this naturally. No pills, or supplements. Au natural!

tata

Angela

Weigh It!

2010-03-30T14:10:00.000-07:00

This is the weighing scale I brought from Walmart for $5. It's really great. I have to weigh my meats and make sure that it's 1 oz. I remember the first time I weighed my fish. I cheated and added more then what I was supposed to. Ok, actually I whined because it was such little meat, but actually all we need is the serving size of a deck of cards.

Anywho....this scale is very helpful and good to have in the kitchen. I use the scale for veggies and fruit as well. Very nice.

Ok lovely people, this is what I have been doing. I have cut out my meat intake for dinner. Eventually I will be going meatless. I lie not, I'm tired of chowing down on meat. I still love my shrimp and salmon. That is what I will be mostly eating until I completely go vegetarian. So step by step, bit by bit, that's how I'm doing it.

I didn't weigh in Monday, but I will next Monday for you all. I am officially a size 8 and very content with it, however I still want to lose a couple more pounds. Eight will do it. I don't want to have any fat rolls over my jeans. As of now I just have a little pouch and just a little pug on the side. I want to be solid.

Ok, lovely people thanks for stopping by!

Dinner Time!

2010-03-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

-7 Scallops (1 oz.)

-1/2 cup collard greens

-1/2 cup of raw shredded cabbage

-1/2 cup of applesauce (I put a lot of cinnamon in it)

-1/2 cup of pineapples (I sprinkled cinnamon on top)

Nothing complicated, just simple basic food. The seasoning I used was apple vinegar for my greens and cabbage. Meat, I think I used garlic and onion powder and pepper.

Dinner time is my favorite because I feel like I'm eating a lot. I get to have 2 fruits, so I look at that as my dessert. Don't forget, if you try this eating style only 1 ounce of meat!

Tata!

Weigh In Stat!/Purchase From Forever 21

2010-03-22T15:20:00.000-07:00

Here It Is!

I was 146lbs last week and now I'm 143.6lbs! I lost 3lbs, for whatever reason I thought I was going to lose more but that's a good amount. I'm still eating in 3 small meal portions and no snack. Guys, it's not easy (sometimes)! There are times I have my days where I just want to pull my hair out or go order or eat the foods that I miss. I crave peanut butter!!! I want it so bad! What do I have to do to have a peanut butter jelly sandwich! Ginger snap cookies with a TALL cold glass of milk I cry for! I whine, I plead, I want! But I know this is for my good health and self-discipline and self-control. Remember my cheat days? HA! No more cheat days, there is no such, so do you all feel my pain? I have my kidneys to remind me of why I have to eat the way I do. I have my dietitian to remind me why I have to eat the way I do. I still have discomfort and pain from the kidney biopsy to remind me of why I have to eat the why I do. Talk about need a relief!!!! Talk about deprived!!!!! Whaaaaaa, sniff, sniff! Oh well, get over it! Lol!

What keeps me going? This is the best I have looked in decades! My skin glows like crazy! I have gotten so many compliments on my face! Smooth, silky, soft, glowy. Eating natural (no processed foods, no chicken, red meat) really does show in your skin. Remember, all I drink is water and I may have cranberry juice which is water down 2x a week. I don't know my exact size yet, but hopefully I'll go to a store and try on some jeans. ALL the pants I had I can no longer wear because they are too big! I had to get rid of the 12, and 10! I'm loving my mystery size, lol!

RING IT!

Big rings! If you like these rings you can get them from Forever21.com

My favorite one is the flower ring. Usually I would have gone for a more subtle color, but you know I need to live more and go for a louder color, so I did red! I love it too!

Black and white ring cost $6.80 each and the red flower, I forgot, but it wasn't more then $6.

Now bargin shoppers as myself, guess what? The blk and white ring I first saw at Bebe.com and they wanted close to $30 for those rings. Then Traci Lynn was selling those same rings for $24! Then I went to Forever21 (always check F21 they have stuff cheaper) and viola $6 bucks! Holla!!!!!!

I had a Dr.'s appt. today in Baltimore this morning, that's why there was a in delay posting. I was thinking about you all...I wasn't going to stand yall up for weigh in.

~Angela~

Check new pic on right, it was taken last week. Size 10 pants were sagging.

6 Seasonings I Use...So Far.....

2010-03-19T08:28:00.000-07:00

From left to right:

-Apple Cider Vinegar

-Onion powder

-Ground Cinnamon

-Garlic Powder

-Salt Free All Purpose Seasoning

-Black Pepper

So there you have it. Pretty boring but that's what it is. You all can use salt, but for my current health condition I have to refrain from salt for a while.

I use the vinegar for mostly salads, collard greens, cabbage, and sometimes carrots. So good! I put lots of cinnamon on my fruit too, especially the applesauce and pineapples. Or I'll put cinnamon in my cream of wheat. Kinda weird, but the taste is ok.

I love the salt free all purpose seasoning in my pasta, and rice, mmmmm, so many flavors on my tongue. It's like a burst of herbs dancing in my mouth!

I do like some spiciness and that's of course the black pepper. I prefer the hot crushed peppers, but the dietitian recommend not too. Sad face. I have to keep it simple for now, but as time goes on I know I will be able to have more seasonings.

Ok lovely people, thanks for stopping by! Weigh in Monday so stay tuned, ok.....

Enjoy your weekend and be safe!

Muah! Thanks for the support!

This Is What My Breakfast Looks Like

2010-03-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

This is my breakfast:

-1/2 grapefruit

-1/2 cup of blueberries

-1 cup of slim milk

-1/2 cup of plain corn flakes

Not every morning I eat cereal, but you better believe I have 2 pieces of fruit with a 1/2 of serving of something else, ie, cream of wheat, grits, toast...and not all the time I have milk. I have to watch my dairy intake. I try to milk 1-3 servings a week.

So here is a sample written out menu of how I eat:

Breakfast: -1/3 cup of cooked oatmeal (I also have to watch my phosphorus intake)

-2 tbsp. of raisins

-1/2 cup of cherries (fresh or frozen)

Lunch: -1 oz. (yes ONE OUNCE!) of salmon and that's with every meat

-1/2 cup of applesauce

-1/2 cup of cucumbers (5 slices)

Dinner: -1 oz. of fresh fish/frozen not breaded or processed

-1/2 cup of blueberries

-1/2 cup of pineapples

-1/2 cup of raw cabbage

-1/2 cup of broccoli

Applesauce has been my best friend, lol. That's what they gave me all the time in the hospital and now I pretty much eat it with every meal. The key is to eat 1/2 cup of everything, that's what I am instructed to do for this season. So it's portion control. It can be very frustrating in the beginning but as time goes on you get used to it.

Keep in mind all your meats are only 1 ounce!!!! Ohhhh how I cried when I heard that, but if you all wanted to know how I lost, this is it. I don't eat red meat, or chicken. I only eat shrimp (4), fresh fish (1 oz.), scallops (7), crab meat (1 oz.), lobster, oysters, and clams (3 medium). However, I mainly eat fresh fish, shrimp, and scallops, that's it. Eventually, I will be going vegetarian.

I have gotten so many compliments on my face of how clear and it glows. I drink only water and cranberry juice (which is a 1/2cup plus I add water to it).

Oh, before I forget! NO SALT!!!!!!!!!!!! OMG, I forgot and that's the main reason! Well almost. I DO NOT PUT SALT ON ANY OF MY FOOD, NONE!!!!!! It took forever for me to adjust. I'm not allowed too, but for you all you can. I will post later about the seasonings I use.

So there you have it! Any questions, please feel free to leave it in the comments. I have no problem telling.

Stay tuned Bloggers......

BODIES IN MOTION

2010-03-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

Don't laugh, but this is who I work out with. No it's not Billy Blanks, Bollywood Bodies, All Star Work Outs, Brazilian Butt Lift, Insanity, or some fancy high gear overrated die hard workout, but it's good ole Gilad from Hawaii! No, he doesn't have all the glist and glamour but the brother gets the job done. Since I'm still recovering from the kidney biopsy, he's the best for me during this season. Small simple moves have tone and slim me down tremendously! Its amazing how I don't have to go at a high extreme heart busting movement to get the heart rate up. With Gilad, all you have to do is focus on the muscle and make it burn! Heart rate will go up and you will slim down with basic moves. Confession, when I first started the workouts, I couldn't keep up at all, but as I did it everyday I was able to go a little further. Even now as I type, I still may not be able to keep up, but I keep going.

Gilad's workout time is a total of 30 minutes too. Such a plus for me. I remember when I used to workout with Billy Blanks or other hot workout gurus it would be 45 minutes to a whole whopping hour or even more! I don't have time for all of that now. A good 20-30 minute workout is good enough. It's what you put in your mouth that really counts!

Find a workout that fits your lifestyle and make sure you have a variety too! I do like Bollywood Bodies and others, but Gilad gives me those real results. If you are a gym rat, continue to have fun with it. Whatever you do, just keep your body moving. Try something different like during a commercial break, do stomach crunches, squats or a simple stretch. You will feel good and want to do more.

I will be weighing in Monday! Remember the "Target Goal Size 12" clothes I was trying to get into? They are too big! I did put them on and was going to take pics but they were to big and falling off me! Wooooo Whoooo!!!! I was so happy! I thought I would never see this day! I feel so free and light. So just stay tuned......there's more.

I OWE IT TO YALL!

2010-03-11T17:20:00.000-08:00

Ok, so this is a before pic when I was in the 200lbs......I didn't realize how swollen I was, DANG!

AFTER, BAM!

I didn't even plan on doing this tonight, but I was bored from Facebook and decided to check out my blogroll to see who's writing what. After reading my fav blogs, I realized how much I miss blogging. I have to give you all an update of my weight loss, but please don't be mad at me.

After the being in the hospital for a month, they put me on a STRICK eating regimen and fluid restriction. Btw, it was my kidney function....so my dietitian has me on a low protein, lots of fruit diet and strictly water. When I went in the hospital, I was 221 due to fluid.....remember the last time I weight in I w

as 181....yup, I cried....right YNC, because I gained that weight and work so hard for it. Well to God be the Glory, I am 152 lbs and that's with jeans on. Check this out! I'm a not a size 12.... and size 10 are falling off on me......so I must be a tight eight!!

OMG, God is good, He gave me double for my trouble! Everyone was so amazed!!!!! And so was I and still can't believe it. I have a whole new eating habit lifestyle and will be going vegetarian very soon. You see I had too much protein, and potassium in my kidneys and they were being over worked. Along with the sodium, which is a killer! I'm not allow to have my fav food....we all know it's PIZZA. But you know, I'm getting used to it. Enough of chatting, will show pics! I will give a sample menu of what I'm allow to eat, etc...bare with me for now.

Love you all so much and thanks for the love.

That's me on the left! I need to lose several more

to be in a comfortable 8! Maybe 5-7lbs! I will be

updating again cuz your girl is back and I will do more recipes of what/how I'm eating...no lie...lol.

As you can see, I love Bebe!

I will do a full body shot later, but I had too hook yall up. Muah, muah! Thanks for being patience with me!

The New Lady A!

Thank You Everyone For the Love!!

2010-02-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

My dear readers (if I have any left). I was out sick and ended up in the hospital the whole month of January! I am still recuperating and taking it one day at a time. I am here and we will continue A Different Me because it is my passion and goal to get on the right track eating healthy. However I need to take this time to heal properly and focus on my health.

Please bare with me. I miss you all like crazy! Welcome new followers and silent readers!

I can't give a time when I will be back, but please know we will be up and running again asap.

I love you all and God bless you all.

Thanks for the well wishes!

*Angela*

Happy New Year Everyone!/I'm sick but will be back!

2010-01-06T11:48:00.000-08:00

I know I said I will be back posting in Jan.2010, but who knew I would be sick with the H1N1! Yup, thought it wouldn't happen to me but it did. Worst thing ever. So I just wanted to let you all know I'll be back when I'm over it. Had it since Dec.24 and got worst. I haven't moderated any comments yet, but I will soon. So if you sent a comment, it will be posted. Give me time please.

I miss you all and love you all. Thanks for understanding.

Lady A

Weigh In Week 15/Closing this blog Til Jan.2010

2009-12-14T10:47:00.001-08:00

To my surprise, when I got on the scale, I am still 181lbs! I could have sworn I lost weight. I must say I think I lost some inches though. So I didn't gain or lose. I just maintained what I have lost which is good.

I so appreciate the love, encouragement, support from all of you. From the silent readers, to my followers, THANK YOU!

I was going to keep this blog open so I can give you all an update, but I'm going to go on and close it temporary til Jan. 2010. I need some R&R!!!!!! I manage 5 blogs and it is work! But I love it. I will be condensing my blogs down to 2 for the year of 2010.

But I have good news! I'm on Youtube and I will be giving my weigh in update once a week. So if you wanted to check me out you are more then welcome. Bare with me on the youtube. I'm still trying to tweak somethings on there and I'm still trying to get used to talking in a camera.

http://www.youtube.com/user/LadyA1Speaks

Ok, I want you all to have a Wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

MUAH!

Weigh In Week 14/Lemon & Lime

2009-12-07T08:37:00.001-08:00

Last time I weighed in I was 184lbs. To my surprise after doing absolutely nothing I lost 3lbs. So I am now exactly 181 lbs. I can't even see how that happened. I didn't do any type of excerise nor a whole bunch of fruits and veggies. I must say I didn't eat much and my job had me hustling so I guess that was my cardio. Check this out, the night before I weighed in, I had intentions of doing 50 stomach crunches, but only did 10 crunches. I was thinking to myself as I was doing the crunches, "I am so silly, do I really think that these crunches are going to flat out my stomach in one night?!" So I stopped, that's why it was just 10 crunches, lol.

I must say I'm proud of myself. I did drop the 3lbs that I gained. So now I'm extra excited to see 170's on the scale. Btw, sorry, no pic of scale. I didn't get any batteries yet so bare with me.

This week I'm just going to do the darn thing and not give a list of do's and don'ts to myself. It's almost like a mental game when losing weight. When you don't think it you lose it, but when you think it, dream it, vision it, it seems like it may take longer.

What I will do this week is add lemon or lime to my water. Rumor has it (from good resources, ie health sites/tv shows) that by doing that it cuts the fat. Don't ask, I just do, lol. I must say it is quite refreshing. I do add a little bit of honey or sugar, but not much.

Ohhh guysss! I feel so relieved! I'm back at 181! It's going to feel good changing the Progress Status on the blog. So close to the 50lb weight loss! That's a lot of weight! Especially on the knees. Oh gosh, no wonder I was a hot tired mess.

What I look forward to the most is wearing new clothes and shoes I brought years ago in a size 9/10 and some 11/12. I can't wait for my doctors to see me either. I just hope they can reduce some of those medications I'm on. That would be great!

I want to do another makeup color for you all, but I have to wait on my camera. Also, I'll be busy again so I hope to make several entries on here.

Til then, be bless and stay wonderful!

Chocolatey Delight Cereal

2009-12-02T11:31:00.000-08:00

I brought Special K Chocolatey Delight Cereal last week. I'm not really a chocolate lover where I "must have" chocolate, but I got it because I was thinking this will help take the edge off of my sweet tooth since I have awakened it from the holiday.

This cereal is really good! The crazy thing is that you really can not taste the chocolate bits in the cereal. I just taste the crunchy flakes and cold milk. I did try the chocolate bit on it's own and it was really good. Not sweet, but had a little kick.

Now I usually get the Vanilla Almond Cereal from Special K. I say to you all to try it. So good and fullfilling. More importantly it's healthy, so you feel even better.

If you stomach gets the growling and you want a not so heavy, low calorie snack, then a healthy cereal is good. With or without milk, it's an excellent snack.

I confess, I did have this cereal for dinner one time, lol. It was a bowl and a half.

I can't believe the week is almost over. I still haven't worked out like I planned this week. This is terrible! I feel fat. Doesn't look like I lost anything. I think I'm still trying to get over the holiday. I need to shake myself and get with the program. I predict that I probably lost 1 pound this week, lol. Speaking of shake, I have been craving a strawberry shake from McDonalds. Ohhhhhh.....helppppp...... For the record, I'm not going too, I hope not, I better not, besides, we are celebrating my daughter's 8th birthday and if we get ice cream, then I might, might have a little. Does that make sense? Adding fuel to the fire? Adding more calories to the weight gain? Mmm, not! I'm not making any promises, but I think I might have to pull out my killer workout dvd....BILLY BLANKS BOOTCAMP! After that workout, I don't wanna do ANYTHING!

http://www.specialk.com/cereals

Weigh In Week 13

2009-11-30T09:06:00.000-08:00

Hello lovely readers! No picture of the scale with my weight. Batteries totally died and there was not chance of getting any juice out of them. However, remember my last weigh in was @ 181. Well after taking a 2 week break plus Thanksgiving (inhaling all of the food you can eat day), I am proud to say that I am currently 184! I only gained 3lbs. Talk about happy and relieved! LOL! So happy! So happy! So happy! Yipeeeee!!!!!

See, you guys must understand. In the past, every time this year I gain about 7-12lbs. I can clearly remember times where I would beg and pray to God to only gain 5lbs when we would visit SC for Thanksgiving. However, often stops at Bojangles, all you can eat buffets at Ryan's or Quincy's Family Resturant, Shoney's endless breakfast bar, hitting up Krispy Kreme Doughnuts with the "Hot Now" sign on and visiting family that have cooked up all the down south favorite foods would have me swollen and fat in all the wrong places.

Then after our trip, I would get on the scale and cry. This year we stayed in Delaware which was good for my eating habits.

So only 3lbs! Oh please, I can probably lose that this week and be back in the game. I have no regret eating a little more then usual. What I do regret is the no exercise part. Lol, and I do mean NO EXERCISE. I bet if I walked at least 3o mins a day, I probably would have lost or maintained the weight. Oh well, it's all good.

I think I found my goal outfit in a size 9/10. Not sure yet, but you guys will know.

BTW: I did try on some size 12 clothing and can you believe that I can fit into some (although I was gasping for air.....does that count?) So almost into the size 12 and when I am, then I only have ONE more size to go....wooooooo hooooooo!

Thanksgiving is Over!/ Weigh In Is Monday

2009-11-27T12:54:00.000-08:00

I didn't do bad this year for Thanksgiving. Although I ate more then usual, I still think I did farely well. After all, it is Thanksgiving, right? I had ONE plate with just about everything on it. Then I later got a slice of chocolate cake with ice cream and I didn't even eat it all.

I know I gained. No need to sugar coat it, I have! I'm quite alright with it because I know I will lose it. So whatever we see on the scale Monday then I will accept it. I'll be embarrassed but I know you guys will still be supportive *wink*. Hopefully I wouldn't have gained more then 3lbs, remember that my last weigh in was 181 lbs. So we shall see!

Enjoy the weekend everyone. I took a mini break from all of my blogs for the holiday, but I will be back on the grind Monday. I trust all enjoyed Thanksgiving, if not I trust that next year will be better!

Tata

Update

2009-11-23T05:09:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not I will be really focusing on the whole 'getting it together'. Quite honestly I feel relieved as if a burden has been lifted off of me since I will be weighing in Nov. 30th. I can focus on other things. Thanks guys for bearing with me on this. I just need this time not to report my weight. No, I'm not hiding. Matter of fact, remember when I said I did put some weight on, well, I gained 6lbs. Most of it was water weight because two days later I weighed myself and I was 4lbs lighter. I'm not even sweating it, nor am I thinking about Thanksgiving.

I did try on these size 12 jeans and I was able to zip it up! Yahhh, but I had a serious muffin top. Alright, I was just checking in with you all. My earrings did come in a while back and I'm loving them. Haven't worn them yet, but when I do, I will take pics.....

*Angela*

Weigh In Postponed

2009-11-20T13:10:00.000-08:00

This week started off a bit rocky. From work, not getting enough sleep, children, husband, life, trying to lose weight, and holiday preparation, I don't know if I'm coming or going. I'm tired! My good eating habits have been tainted from all the stress.

I found myself retreating into my old bad eating habit which is being an emotional eater. I did get on the scale and sure enough, oh no!

I found myself grabbing whatever and eating unconscionably. I was hoping I wouldn't revert back to emotional eating. See, when I get frustrated, discouraged, or feeling blue, I find myself going to food to make me feel better. Not only I may feel good, but I won't stop. I will try to find something else to eat. I'll even go to the grocery store picking up unhealthy snacks. The comfort, and taste, it's like all my problems go away with each bite I take. I thought the cycle was over, but it's not. I'm sorta glad this happened because now I know what I need to do.

So I am postponing my weigh in until Nov 30th. So that gives me 1 week to "get it together!" During this time I am going to refocus, take vitamins, and eat junk food, just kidding.....eat healthy snacks. The key for me is to have the healthy snack ready made. So when the hunger pain hit, I can grab a ready made healthy snack.

The last time I reported my weight I was 181. Hopefully the next time I weigh in I'll would have lost a couple of pounds. Oh dear, Thanksgiving is around the corner. I'm not going to stress it, I'm just going to do my best and try to increase my cardio.

I will still be updating my post.

Ciao!

Don't Like the Hair, Then Use Nair!

2009-11-18T15:15:00.000-08:00

Nair is one of my favorite products for hair removal. I forgot to take a picture of the facial Nair creme, but you can find it with the other Nair products.

I have been using Nair for many years. Removing hair from legs, under arms, chin, upper lip, jawline, and even private area is so easy. Just do it before taking a shower or a bath!

Whatever you Nair will feel so soft and smooth.

During the summer, I like to use the microwave wax for my legs. This product does wonders. Your legs will be hairless for up to 3-4 weeks, depending on how fast the hair grows back. If/when I shave my legs, I notice I get hair stubs in just a couple of days. It doesn't give me that fresh silky sexy look. Not cool!

There is nothing worse then for me to see a woman's hairy underarms. Yeck! Me seeing that takes me over the edge. If you are wearing sleeveless shirts, please keep your underarms clean. Looking at hairy pits with deodorant stuck in the hairs (looks like a cotton field) is so not the answer.

I Naired my underarms a couple of days ago. I try not to shave because it will have your underarms looking darker. I forgot the proper name of what cosmologist call it, but I'm sure you have seen the dark cloud (as I call it) under female arms. So I try and not shave, but when I'm in a rush, I do shave.

Oh, before I forget, the only thing I don't like about Nair body lotion is the smell of it. It smells funny, that's why I like to take a hot shower when I have used it.

So there are some of my products I use for hair removal: Nair Microwave Wax and Nair Body Lotion. Don't exceed 10 minutes. Enjoy the radiant smooth skin!

Bush Baby/Blue M.A.C. Makeup

2009-11-16T11:56:00.000-08:00

Got my hair done and I'm somewhat pleased. This isn't the best hair style, but it sure does beat disappointed. First of all, this wasn't the curl weave I wanted to get. I wanted the cork screw, but this is the tight spiral. She sewed it all up and viola! When I first saw the weave, I was a little nervous, but after playing with it and putting mousse in, it worked out ok with me.
Not the first time I had the bush look. It's cute and I do like. There's my bush baby look!

So I decided to spruce it up for you guys. As you can see, I got my contacts in. I also have on makeup. My camera does it absolutely no justice. It makes my eyes look watery and makeup funny, so I can't wait to invest in the Cannon camera. Crystal clear! Off that....
The colors of the eye shadow clockwise: Fresh water, Deep truth, SKETCH, and Patina.
I used Lancome's lipstick called Couture Chocolate and lancome's juicy top lip gloss, Toffee Pop.

My hair is really big and bushy but why does it look so small in the picture! Hair is puffy but it will lay down flatter after I wear it for a while.
I don't know how long I will be wearing this doo. I guess until it looks a hot mess. So there you have it. I will update this picture on the right side of my blog. Thanks for stopping by!

Tata!

Weigh In Week 11/Getting Hair Done

2009-11-16T06:26:00.000-08:00

Lovely people I hope all is well!!!! Ok, so last weigh in I was 183 lbs. As you can see, the scale says 181 lbs. I lost 2 lbs, again. Honestly I just knew I was going to drop 3 lbs with the whole soup thing. But it's all good. I was getting tired of the soup anyway, lol. This week I won't eat as much soup. Maybe 3x this week. I am content. I rather lose at a steady pace and not rush it, then to drop the weight fast just to gain it back later like I did in the past.

My body looks so good. I can really see my waistline, jawline, collar bone, form and just a overall nice shapely body. Size 16 is now officially too big for me. I had to get a trash bag and bag up all the size 16 pants and large tops! It felt liberating! I did try on these other pair of size 14 jeans that are cut a little small (they feel like a size 12). I was able to pull them up, zip up and move in them. They look so freakin good, I'm so excited. Heck, 3 more pounds and it will be a perfect fit! I tried them on with a black top and wow, I can't wait to take a pic so you all can see.

I"m getting my hair done today @ 10am. The sew in weave. I didn't get the weave I wanted because she didn't have it, so I got this tight spiral which looks ok. So no more afro puff. I'm going more for a bush look, which I love.

Thanks guys for the encouragement and the support! I really appreciate it. You all don't know how much it helps. Especially when I want to cheat, I think about you all. Whether if you are a follower or not, thanks!!!!!

Big Kissy Kiss *MUAH*

Cheat Day!

2009-11-13T10:21:00.000-08:00

I just got finish devouring two slices of cheese pizza and boy was it good. What happen to the soup and other healthy food choices one might be asking. Ha! Today is my cheat day! This is were I pick one day out of the week and eat whatever I want. I do keep in mind how much of it I eat. I didn't have a cheat day last week because I pigged out on carbs. Remember my Carb Mania Day?

Cheat days are great for me because after working hard with the eating healthy, I do feel like I deprive myself of my foods I crave for throughout the diet. When I feel like I'm depriving myself, I later go on a feeding frenzy, eating everything in sight. I know me. I have done this in the past. When I have done this, I could possibly gain 2-5 pounds. Yes, it's that serious. So I had to create a cheat/break day. Only ONE day out the week. I'll eat whatever my taste buds have been screaming for. From cake, cookies, chips, hot dogs, cheeseburger, pizza, or eating at a restaurant, I will enjoy this day. So if there is a special event on a Saturday then I will save my cheat day for that day. If it's Friday, Sunday, etc....then I'm mindful to save that day for being a Cheat Day.

For the last two weeks, I had a craving for pizza. So that's what I went for. Later today I'll probably eat a light salad and a piece of fruit. I'm hoping this didn't set me back. I shouldn't since all I had was the pizza today. I'm so full and don't want to think of eating anything else...

Weigh in is around the corner. I'm feeling good and curious to know how I did. I know you all are too. I don't expect to lose a lot like I did when I was in the hospital eating soup. I wouldn't want to drop that much anyway. But if I could lose at least 3 pounds this week then I'm happy. Hope I did ok this week. We'll see!

What is it about pizza that makes it so good? The most basic food with all the food groups. Bread, sauce, and cheese. That's it! Yet it's the best thing ever!

The Secret Is In The Soup!

2009-11-11T13:10:00.001-08:00

It's really no secret, but the key to this whole weight loss is what you are putting in your mouth. When I signed up at Gold's Gym last year, my personal trainer said that food consumption plays 80% of your weight loss. That's a lot but true. You can bust your tail and workout all you want, but if you are guzzling sugary drinks, loads of carbs, greasy and fatty foods, then you won't get the results you want.

When I was hospitalized they had me on a strict diet. Low sodium, low fat and low taste. But I got used to it. Even the Saltine crackers they gave me had no salt. It tasted like paste, yeck! The trick was they gave me low sodium soup everyday with an open face sandwich for lunch. I dropped 25 lbs in one week! No exercise, no walking (I could barely walk to the bathroom), and again, NO EXERCISE! So what does that tell you?

Last week I brought several soups that I enjoy. I like tomato, minestrone, chicken noodle, vegetable, chicken gumbo, and vegetable orzo. I love putting parseaman cheese in my soup too. Soup fills me up to the point where I feel like I ate a 5 course meal. I'm satisfied and content after eating a hot bowl of soup with crackers. If I want more soup, I have no guilt. I can go back for a second helping knowing it's healthy.

Yesterday I had a bowl of Minestrone soup, hearty sandwich, and a salad for lunch. I tried to take a picture, but the camera battery is extra

low and kept shutting off. So this is the only pic I got.

Looks like a blob of mayo on my sandwich, but that is not the case. I'm trying to figure out what that yellow stuff is, lol...see it? Not mustard. What the heck? Needless to say, the turkey sandwich was good.

For lunch I had a turkey sandwich with one slice of hard cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, with two slices of wheat bread. Oh, I also had a cup of hot chocolate. I had a banana and grapefruit for snack. For dinner, I can't remember, but it was something....ohhh, it was baked chicken and peas.

I am trying to recreate what they served me in the hospital. I will do this until I get tired of it.

If I keep up the soup, then I might lose more then I did last week. We will see!

Reward For 50 Pound Weight Loss Mark

2009-11-11T06:27:00.000-08:00

I love big earrings. If you can't see my earrings 50 ft. away then they are too small for me. I have been wearing big earrings since I was in the 7th grade. Remember that song L.L. Cool J did, "I like a girl with extenstions in her hair, bamboo earrings, at least two pairs." Yup, that was me, I did have the largest pair of Bamboo earrings in school, lol. I had to sneak and wear them. My parents thought they were too big. Friends and classmates would ask did it hurt wearing them or were the earrings too heavy. Not really, and I got used to them.

I do wear small earrings from time to time, but for the most part, it's big. That's what I like.

God has blessed me with thick earlobes for my oversized earrings. See, God knew my style before He formed me in my mother's womb. My ear holes are not split or busted from wearing oversized due to my thick earlobes. Thanks God, I appreciate that, love you much, muah!

So here are the earrings I brought. They caught my eye and I had to get them.

I told myself this is my gift to me when I hit my 50 lbs weight loss mark. So I only have 4 more pounds to go. I know some of you all maybe laughing at me. I know, I know, I can find any excuse to buy something. My dad says, "you can talk yourself in or out of anything." So true.

I ordered these earrings from aldoshoes.com. They have some of the best accessories. I have brought earrings from there before and was well pleased with the quality. They look a little pricey. You wouldn't believe how much I paid for them! Ha! Check it out yourself!

I will let you all know when the earrings come in. Looking forward to it!

Next Hair Style

2009-11-10T09:52:00.000-08:00

I had absolutely no clue on how I'm going to have my hair.

Don't want a wig. So tired of those, that's all I wore for months and it made my edges thin out. Don't want micro braids. I did those for 2 years. I wanted the Senegalese twist. Loving them! Never had it done before, but then I realized I'm still job hunting. Yeah, I'm old fashion. I want to have a not so 'sista sista' look. Where I live, they are even hard on the ones who wear dreadlocks and big braids, so I need to be careful.

Actually, after I get the job, then I will get the Senegalese twist done.

My hair is natural and I want to keep it like that for a while. So no perms! I don't even want to hot press my hair yet. I might do that in January.

After thinking long and hard. I believe I'm going to get a sew in weave. It protects my real hair since I don't want it out. All I have to do is shake and go'. Low maintaince too. Oil sheen and some hair jam and I'm good to go.

This would be perfect since I'm working out, sweating, working in a factory and with this doo I don't have to wrap my hair.

I plan on getting the deep wave synthetic hair.

This hair brand is from Outre, the deep wave. It doesn't have to be this long, but whatever is cheaper for me to get then that's what it is. I want to get my hair done before Thanksgiving. So that's the plan.

Hey, I realized that when I lose 4 more pounds, then I will be at my 50lbs mark. A total of 50lbs lost. Wow! That's a lot of weight. No wonder my knees and back was hurting. When my hair is done, I will post pics.

*Muah*

Weigh In Week 10

2009-11-09T04:51:00.001-08:00

Last time I weighed in I was at 185 lbs. My goal was to lose 3lbs that week. However I did have some set backs, but low and behold I have surprised myself and lost 2lbs. So now I'm down to 183lbs. Not bad. I did try and make up for the cheating days the last several days. I'm almost out of the 180's!

Someone at work tonight/last night said I lost a lot of weight. When they did say that, I was like, "finally, someone notices!" Then they kept saying it too. It felt good.

Oh guess what. Those size 14 jeans I was wearing in the pic that's labeled 'Size 14 Jeans.' Well, in the picture, they were really tight, but now they are loose. I can even pinch at least an inch of extra jean on my behind. Whoooo hooooo!

So the goal for this week is to continue to eat healthy and give you all some recipes. No particular weight lost number, just do regular exercise, 50+ crunches, 4 sets of squats, and 5 sets of 10lb weights on arms. I need to incorporate more stretching.

I only got one vote for 'what color contacts, grey or green?' So I will later do it again. Hopefully then there will be more participants. But this time, I will show other colors. The plan is to take my camera to my optometrist appt, try on every color contacts and take pictures in them. Then you will be able to vote on the best natural looking pair of contacts. Whatever color contacts has the most votes, then that is the one I'll probably pick for the new year 2010.

Lovely peoples, thanks for reading and taking the time out. God bless you all and have a wonderful day! Remember, God will give you the desires of your heart, somethings may take a little longer, but just know that it's coming. Don't give up. Stay encourage for He has not forgotten about you!

Did I Eat the Cake?: Follow up from birthday party

2009-11-06T16:41:00.000-08:00

So remember I wanted cake at the party tonight? I'm proud of myself. After I posted the last entry, I got a banana. Then later I ate a very green leafy salad with all the right fixings. Tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, boiled egg, red onions and a couple of other things. I also had several crackers to go with the salad. It was good. Yet cake was still on my mind.

We went to Chuckie Cheese and the smell of pizza hit me hard. Mmmm, mmm good! Because I was bad this week, I wasn't even tempted. I was looking for the cake (am I crazy or what?) but didn't see it. All I saw were cupcakes. Cupcakes? Oh heck no, I will not cheat over some whack box cake mix cupcakes, lol! Oh please, don't even worry bout a sista. So needless to say, I didn't have any cupcakes. I was relieved that it was what it was!

So there you have it. I made the right decision. I ate healthy. So that is my high point for this week even though I didn't do to well over the week.
Weigh in is around the corner. Regardless what the scale will say, I am still proud of myself because I made the right choice tonight.

I Want Cake!

2009-11-06T12:35:00.000-08:00

Today we will be celebrating my nephew's birthday at Chuckie Cheese and all I can think about is the cake.

I haven't had a slice of moist delicious cake in months and I really want some. I told myself if the cake is brought from Food Lion or Sam's Club then I will not have any. Their cakes taste like any other cake. Nothing special, I call those 'taste one tasted them all cakes'. But if my sister brought the cake from one of the local bakery then, uh ohh...I just might.

However, remember all that smack I was talking how I was going to go hard this week (again). Well I slipped up and the crazy thing was that I really didn't even want what I ate. Why do I do that? If you are going to indulge, then dang it, do it with something you have been craving, right? Actually I did, it was pizza, but I didn't get it from my usual place which is Pat's. I got my two slices from Roma's which wasn't all that great, but I still ate it. Why? So now those are calories wasted.

I think I gained for this week. I was doing so good but after Wednesday I just misbehaved. I'm sad. If I maintained for this week, then I'm happy. So if I stay 185, then I'm good.

Lovely peoples, enjoy your weekend and be safe. Please wish me well going to this bday party, lol. Pray, pray, prayyyyyyyy!

Grey Or Green Eye Contacts?

2009-11-03T10:32:00.000-08:00

I have been wearing contacts since sophomore year of college. It all started because I wanted a total different look. I believe the eyes

say it all and I wanted my eyes to say a lot of good things. Having brown eyes wasn't doing it anymore for me. Seems like everyone has brown eyes. I wanted my eyes to pop like Stacey Dash. Her's are gorgeous.I'm happy in the skin I'm in but I am a firm believer of enhancing one's beauty.

I have worn hazel, grey, and green contacts for over 10 yrs and each of them looked natural. So natural to the point where people would ask are those my real eyes.

No longer a hazel contact wearer. That color is too popular. So then I did green for a while. It was cute, but later I fell in love with the grey.

I have tried other colors which I looked crazy in. Blue, purple (as if!), amber, light brown, and another color I can't recall at this time.

So there you have it. Grey or green? I'm forever leaning towards the grey contacts but the green are just as cute. I like that exotic look. I feel as though the grey's are the best choice for that. I'm wearing green in the pic below. And the first pic I'm wearing grey.

Lately I haven't been wearing my contacts by the way, they do have medicine in them,

due to work and I only have one pair left. So I wear my glasses.

That's me and my sisters. The one in the middle is wearing grey contacts. I think she always pulls off the look very well. I wasn't wearing any that day.

Next year on my 2010 beauty list, I want to wear my contact religiously like I used to. So I'm debating to do grey or green. Whatever color I pick this go round, I will stick with it for a very, very, long time. Keep in mind my hair will be jet black. I think grey with jet black hair goes so very well. Let me know!

Weigh In Week 9 Different Me

2009-11-02T09:27:00.000-08:00

Last weigh in I was 186lbs. Now as promise with a picture, I'm 185lbs. So I'm down 1 whole pound. Hey, something is better then nothing, right? I did splurge this week. Remember my carb mania day? I didn't tell you all but later that evening I had 2 hot dogs with buns and a bowl of baked macaroni and cheese. Rinsed it all down with a cold sugary drink. Then Halloween candy! I did treat myself to (was it really treating or hurting?) 3 mini pcs. of chocolate candy, then Sunday, I had a couple more pcs. So that was the set back. I don't know what came over me, but I'm over it now. I tell you what, I'm going target for 3lbs weight lost this week. That's my goal.

I'm at the mid mark of the 180's and so close to being in the 170's, besides I really want that shirt from Dereon! I wear a size medium and we all know that's a popular size.

Another thing! I mentioned it before, but yesterday when getting ready for church. I had nothing to wear. Better yet, nothing to fit me. The size 16 is really wayyy to bigggg, but I had to wear it because I don't have any size 14 dress pants BUT I have plenty of size 12 dress pants with tags still on them! So there is my extra motivation. I don't want to go another Sunday with my pants leg dragging on the ground, sagging off the butt and thighs looking like I can put helium in them to fly away.

I think I'll be adding more soup to my healthy eating. It's amazing how soup will fill you up. Love it! Hopefully I will be pleased with the results.

Tata!

Found My Reward For When I Lose 10 More Pounds

2009-10-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

I already decided on my 'reward' for when I lose 10lbs. I have a list of rewards on the bottom right of the blog for every 10lbs I lose. That's also my motivation. When I do, I will be 176 lbs. So saying that, I have found this really cute top from Dereon. Sometimes they have a nice collection. I see Beyonce have stepped up her clothing line. Now she has real accessories. All before it was just a hat, that was it.

So here is the shirt that I want in black. I don't have a ruffled black top and this will go well with anything. Jeans, pants/slacks, shorts, and skirts will be perfect. I love clothing pieces that will work with anything. The top is $44, too much, but it's now on sale for $35. I can work with that. I wanted you all to see the back of the shirt but I was unable to copy. Very cute. It has the logo, 'Dereon' in gold on the back collar and pleats on the side and c

ollar. I'm all about details, so this shirt is so me. So feminine, sexy, and cute!

Also, I found this dress. OMG. At my job, someone brought in this Victoria's Secret catalog. I wanted just about everything I saw! We were pointing out lingerie that we did or didn't like. Then we ran across this sweater dress. OMG. We all were saying "OMG, OMG, that dress is HOT!" We were drooling over it. Yes, it was that serious. Then one of the girls said, "Angela, you would kill that dress, you got that shape." I was blushing and was flattered. Then the rest of the girls were like, "yeah Angela, you would!" I was thinking, "but my stomach, my thighs, my arms, my this, my that! If I'm going to wear a dress like that, then My God! It needs

to be correct! No half stepin in that dress and it's not forgiving. We all agreed on a hot pair of boots go with it and

I would need a show stopper bag too (if I got the dress). Bunny, you would look HOT in this dress too. We both have that shape to compliment this dress.

I checked the price and my heart dropped, lol. Too expensive. I really can't afford it BUT it is on sale for $79, still too much for me. However, if they still have this dress the end of Nov. then maybe I can get it. I doubt if they will have my size by then. Who knows, right?

Here are other sweater dresses that I like as well. YNC, you would rock that cream dress like crazy. I couldn't pull that off. Also YNC, it's on sale for $39, now that's a deal! I also like the gray dress with the pleats. For whatever reason it caught my eye, but I don't know the right accessories for it yet.

Carb Mania

2009-10-27T12:55:00.000-07:00

Today I have been chowing down on the carbs today! From club crackers to onion bagels with cream cheese. I don't even want to know what set back I have done. Why is bread so good? Buttery crackers so tasty? Oh and don't even think about adding cheese to your bread or crackers. That's a meal itself. Let's not even go there with the regular bread n' butter. Mmmmm, especially when it's warm and you add honey. Ooooooo....ok, that's enough lusting after food.

I'll redeem myself with only 1-2 carb serving tomorrow.

Honestly, I need to add more veggies while I'm at it. I guess tonight at work I will throw wipes. I know I'll burn mega calories which will make up for my carb mania day. That's one thing I like about this job. I have lost some weight from working there. People were telling me I'll lose more if I throw wipes for 2 weeks. This one lady, Mary, was a plump 14 and now she's a size 3! Tight and tone too. I'm not trying to get down that size, but it was encouraging when she told me.

Yuppers, that's me inhaling an onion bagel with cream cheese. Boy was it good too! No regrets. I haven't had one in so long.

I know I look a mess. Actually, I just woke up. See, didn't I say I was going to reveal myself more. Lol!

Wish me well. I will be doing a serious workout. I might have another cracker too....sorry, but it was so GOOD!

Weigh in is around the corner!

BTW: Remember I couldn't show you all the pic of what the scale reported from the last weigh in. Guess what happened....my hubby deleted the picture and he also deleted a pic of a breakfast meal that I created. Nothing special, it was bagel with scramble egg and 2 slices of tomato with crushed peppers and parmesan cheese. See I knew I wasn't going crazy, because I knew the camera stored the pic! No worries, I got yall next time with the proof!

*SMOOCHIES*

Weigh In Week 8/ The Bra

2009-10-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

Today is the day I report! I could have done a little better, but I'm not complaining too much. Last weigh in was at 189 lbs. On the scale Sunday it said 186 lbs. So I'm down 3 lbs. I rather be down then up!

Where's the pic?! I know, I know, stupid camera AGAIN! I did take the picture, but the camera kept going out again. The batteries our camera need are so expensive! However, I thought it did catch it, matter of fact, I reviewed the pic. Then after work this morning, here I am about to post the pic, why isn't it on the memory card? Strange? I'm not going to let it frustrate me again because you all will mos def get a pic for the next weigh in.

I'm feeling really good. Light on my feet. I can see a difference with the 3 lbs lost too. My 'tight' size 14 jeans aren't really tight anymore! Wow, all from 3 lbs! Arms slimming and my boobs! Let me tell you about my boobs! I got it from my mom, the busty top, heavy top, big tatas or whatever you call your girls. I started out as a 44DD. I was probably bigger then that. I was wearing my mom's bras. She was giving them to me and I needed it because I couldn't buy them at the time due to low in funds. Then I inched my way down to a 42 DD. Over time and I'm speaking for today, my boobs are much smaller. I am so happy. I brought a Victoria Secrets bra when it was on sale several months ago. They really didn't have my size, but I still wanted to get a bra because they were dirt cheap. Besides, it's VS! So I got the largest they had which was a 38 C. My slim original size was always a 34 or 36 C. Guess what. I can almost fit the bra perfectly. I just have a little and I do mean little spillage or bubble popping out the cup that can be fix. Wow almost a C cup! Man! Feels good looking down at the girls and able to see my stomach again. Wooooo hooooo!

Tomorrow I Report My Weight!

2009-10-25T17:49:00.000-07:00

I am feeling pretty good. I did well this weekend. For the most part, I stayed on task. If anything, I could have drank more water. I was enjoying the grape Kool Aid a little too much Sunday, since that day is my break day.

I didn't make myself clear of my overall goal with the whole weight loss in my welcome/introduction post. My goal is to be wearing a comfortable size 9/10. As of now, I am in a tight 14. I can still wear one or two pants that are a size 16, but they are still too big, Yahh!

This week I'm going to have to hump it more then ever. Why? I'm in between sizes and I have absolutely no clothes to really wear. It's either a BIG 16 which makes me look like I'm wearing someone's hand me downs. The 14's are just a bit too tight but I can still pull it off with a large shirt that covers the fat hanging over my jeans....muffin top. So if I lose a good 5 lbs then I should be wearing the size 14 comfortably.

After I fit into the size 12 target outfits then I will pick out another set of 3 outfits but it will be a size 9/10 and I will post a pic of them on the right side of the blog.

I haven't been working out like I want to, but I did some type of cardio. If not cardio, then light toning. But this week, I will mos def increase it. There is no excuse because we have a home gym in our basement, lol.

Ok lovely peoples, stay tuned with my results. Tomorrow I shall report!

2009-10-23T17:54:00.000-07:00

I have been on a diet roller coaster for 10yrs. Lose, gain, lose, gain more, lose some and cycle seemed like it didn't stop. I would take diet pills for the quick weight loss. Yes, it did work, but unfortunately 2yrs ago, it affected my heart where I had to get surgery. Now I'm doing it the natural way. The healthier and realistic way. I have cut out a lot of sweets and started eating fruits to fix my sweet tooth. Fresh vegetables, lean meat and good carbs are now a main part of my diet. Water plays a big part of my diet, but when I'm tired of water, I add Crystal Light. I do have a 'free day' where I eat whatever I like, but I don't over do it. Pizza is the main thing I eat on my 'free day'. This way I'm not depriving myself and I feel content.
In this blog, I will be revealing who I am. So you get to take a personal journey of Lady A's life in the healthy eating world. Here, I'm not Lady A....I'm still a lady, but since you all will be on a more intimate level in my world, I'm just Angela. This is the new different me. I want to embrace the beauty that was always within me since life challenges hid it over the years. On the right side of the blog are a list some characteristics that I would like to carry on this journey for life, so I will be working on this as well as my weight. In the process of the weight loss, I will be giving myself a complete MAKEOVER from head to toe. I will be sharing with everyone what I am doing with nails, hair, make-up, clothes, perfume and whatever else. Here I will be sharing my transformation of me losing the weight. I will be weighing in every Sunday morning, but I will not post it until Monday.
To see pictures of me at my heaviest, please scroll down to the very first post. I will be posting more pictures of me when I was slim.

Butt Like Jello

2009-10-22T12:24:00.000-07:00

Last night at work my buddies and I were playing around like always. Mersey (Cameroon) and Esther (Haiti) and I were trying to hit each other. We are just plain silly. Esther was hitting Mersey like crazy (all fun and games) and then I joined in and started hitting her as well on her side. We were all laughing and then Mersey slapped my butt (no not gay, it's a shame we females can't cut up because now everything is 'so gay'). When she did, she jumped back as if something grossed her out. She told Esther to touch my butt (like the side part, you know the saddle bag). Mersey was steadying laughing and I kind of figured what the deal was. Esther touched my side butt and said, "Ewww! wow, you are mushy! Like a sponge!" Mersey fell out laughing. I was embarrassed, but I played it off and said, "yeah, I know, it's like jello!" We all laughed, but deep down inside I my feelings were hurt.

So then I touched Mersey's saddle bags/side butt and mind you she not slim, not even close, BUT she is solid. Nothing jiggling, mushy, soft or spongy. I remember that's how I used to be, solid and tight. I took it granted.

My upper body is much tighter then my bottom. Even my torso is tighter then my thighs/butt area even though I have two rolls. Mmmm, I wonder does my husband complain or grossed out when he touches my butt? He likes slapping it and see jiggle (that's what he says).

After that scenario at work, it just made me more aware and determine to slim down and tone up. It's really awake up call. It's on now!

Next Goal Outfits Size 12

2009-10-21T15:27:00.000-07:00

These pictures do not give the clothes any justice, but it's the best my little camera can do. So here are my 3 target goal outfits. All of the bottoms are a size 12 and tops are medium/large.

The first outfit on the left is a white ruffle Bebe blouse that I brought years ago and tags are still on! The bottom is a grey skirt with an oversize silver belt that I brought from J.C. Penny's.
The middle outfit which I love so much is a basic, chic, yet makes a loud statement when worn with the right accessories! The ruffle fine line plaid jacket is from Charlotte Russe and the button down blue jeans are from Value City.
Third outfit is a killer. I brought the blouse from Arden B. It's a light pink off shoulder top that has lace running down the side of the arm and on the front of the blouse. There are two tassels that hang in the front. Now the sailor pants are from T.J.Maxx and you wouldn't believe how much I paid for them. How I came up with this look was from Arden B. @ the VA mall. They matched up the blouse with sailor pants and I couldn't keep my eyes off of the mannequin. It was just so gorgeous and glam. Who would have thought to match those two together?! I remembered that I had a pair of sailor pants at home so now I'm really debating. Then this guy comes in the store with his girlfriend and his eyes went straight to the mannequin and said, "wow, wow, that top is hot, man, that's beautiful!" Needless to say, my debate was over. I quickly power walked (didn't want to run and look desperate) where the shirts were and found my size, the popular MEDUIM. I exhaled.

All of the outfits still have tags on them. It's like a new wardrobe, well it is. So I need all the prayers in the world to pull off this size 12. Remember, after I reach 12, then I just have one more size left. I thought this day would never come. I am so mindful of what I put in mouth too. However I do need to increase my workouts which I really haven't been doing. I work 3rd shift and it's a killer. By the time I get off work, I don't want to do any type of excerise. I'm just going to have to push myself.

Guacamole In The Making

2009-10-21T10:18:00.000-07:00

I love good guacamole! This is a very simple dish to make. I enjoy it with 3 pieces jerk chicken wings and a serving size of brown rice. The guacamole gives a nice cool soft taste since the jerk chicken is spicy and hot. I think guacamole is best with spicy foods. Sorry, no picture of the jerk chicken wings, I was so hungry that I scoffed down the wings. Avocado is a healthy fruit, vegtable, what the heck is it, lol! It's good healthy eating, that's what it is!

Recipe For Guacamole:

1 avocado
1 small tomato chopped
1 small slice of red onion or less or none
1 lime, lemon or lemon juice
3-4 dashes of salt (to your taste)

Assemble:

Cut the avocado in half and take out the seed
Keep the avocado skin for later, will be used to put the guacamole in
spoon out the avocado into a bowl

I put all the ingredients in a bowl as shown above. Then you will mix it all together. Don't make it too mushy unless that is how you want it. Then put in fridge for it to chill.

Caution! It's best to not have the guacamole in the fridge too long because it will brown. So eat as soon as possible! Or add a little more lemon/lime so the browning process won't be bad.

This is what it should look like after you mix all of your ingredients. Might look gross but it's good!
You will later take the avocado skin that you cut in half and scoop out the guacamole and place it in the avocado skin. I do this to make the presentation look good. It's creative and cute too. Too bad I didn't have any white corn chips, mmmm....

Hope you try and enjoy!

Weigh In Week 7 To A Different Me!

2009-10-20T15:41:00.000-07:00

Lol, check out my chip polish. I know, I know....shhhhh....be nice, lol.
Man! You guys probably thought I fell off the wagon with this whole losing weight thing right?! Not! Playtime is over. Ok! Remember my last weigh in? It was exactly 200.lbs. Remember how I was whining and crying about being out of the 200's...it seem like I was stuck for a while. Readers, followers, commenter's, anonymous people, heheeeee, I'm now 188.8! I lost 12lbs!

Wait, wait. I know the scale says 189. Here is the deal. When I weighed myself first thing Sunday morning, the scale said 187.8, then I did it again but the next time it said 188.8. I was like, "Nooooo!" So I hopped on the scale again and it said 189.8! I hate digital scales sometimes! Each time I had the camera in my hand ready to take a pic, but because the camera is low on batteries, it kept shutting off!!!! So I was unable to take the pic of the scale saying 187! So when I tried again, the same thing happened, but the scale now said 188 and I was HOT! So why now I did it the third time, the stupid camera finally kept a little bit of juice and I took the pic, but only for the scale to say 189! I'm thinking that my readers are going to think I'm lying if I told them 187 with no proof, lol. So you know what, out of all those 3 different readings, I'm picking 188lbs although it says 189lbs.

You lovely people do see that I'm out of the 200's FINALLY!
I can fit into my size 14 jeans! They are a little tight, but it's appropriate to still wear.

Check out the pic on the right side of my blog. I'm in a pair of size 14 JEANS!

Taking A Break

2009-10-20T15:39:00.001-07:00

I will still be watching what I am eating, however I'll start posting the weigh in numbers after summer.
Yes, I will still be mindful of what I'm putting in my mouth. So I will be updating with you all after summer.

Weigh In Week 6

2009-10-20T15:35:00.000-07:00

I didn't forget. I weighed in Monday morning but because I already posted a post I wanted to wait. I'm down 5lbs! Yahhh! Wow you guys are really praying HARD for me. Kisses and hugs to all! Thanks everyone for the encouragement, means a lot and I don't take it lightly. So now I need to be OUT the 200's. I need to see 19...... I'm shooting for 195, heck I'll take 196 or 7. Do you know what this means. If I could lose close to 10lbs, then I will be able to fit into a size 14!!!! I haven't been a 14 since baby Jesus was a baby....ok, did that make sense? I have been a whopping size 18-20 for the longest. Now I can wear a size 16. Trying to fit into these size 14 jeans by the end of the month. We shall see! Check out my white toe nails, lol. That's my favorite summer color that I rock often. My signature look. So YNC, I painted the toes myself. I know you can tell, lol. Cool, I just noticed the date is on the scale, so now that's really confirmation for you guys that it was MONDAY, lol. I know yall trust me.

Til next weigh in,

Weigh In Week 5

2009-10-20T15:32:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you all read the last post. If not then don't be alarmed that I have gained. Not happy, but not sad because it was worst a couple of days ago. So when I got on the scale this morning and saw that I gained 5lbs, I didn't feel so bad. Why? Several days ago, I was 210lbs, lol. I think it was water and salt.So now I'm more for real then ever and will knock this out the park. I had my last apple fritter from Wawa, I have tasted enough chocolate glazed doughnuts, and I don't need to see McD's, Burger King, or Dairy Queen anymore. I have cut my ties with them and said good- bye til futher notice.I received a call yesterday for a baby shower invite this weekend. This is not the same baby shower I mentioned in the last post. When I see the mother-to-be for the 6th time, lol, yes, 6, I wanna be 5lbs lighter when what I am now.Why is it during the summer, all these events pop out of no where?! I'm enjoying them, but goodness, it's always something going on !Ok, so that's it for now. Til then I'll still be on there rambling. Remember, Golden Wives Club blog is open to the public for the summer. So enjoy your week!

Sorry, No Pic/ Weigh In week 4

2009-10-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

Hey guys. Sorry, no pic this time, but please believe me when I say I'm now 200lbs. So I'm down 3lbs. Yahhh, could be better, but I can't complain. I'm almost out of the 200's! We need to have a party, cake, ice cream, pizza, hot wings, see that's what got my butt in this situation now, lol! I really haven't updated my other blogs. Please be patience. Life is getting a bit rough and busy.

However, trust and believe God with all your heart that He's working everything out on your behalf no matter how bad it may seem. You will get through this in Christ Jesus.Til then, one love!

Weigh In Week 3

2009-10-20T15:25:00.000-07:00

So sorry guys. Life has been extremely busy and a lil hectic but not in a bad way. Internet is down, so I'm over parents place to say "hi" to you all.
All is well over here. Just doing the wifey, mommy thing. Trying to bring in extra money with this new job I have. I worked 3rd shift. Didn't want to but that's all they had. A lot of Haitians work there and the Haitian men are sooo flirtatious that it is ridiculous! I told them that I was married, but they just don't care. Come to find out one of them has a wife back in Haiti! Oh come on!!! I told my hubby several stories and we both be bagging up laughing. Saying things what I should have done or said. But honestly, one guy took it a little too far. But this one is Puerto Rican has been all in my face since I started. He tried to hug me and I kinda sorta hug, but my arms never did touch him. You know those kind of hugs where you don't embrace. Well we were walking and he tried to hug and as he did, his hand nonaccidently embraced my butt with a light squeeze. Now I'm pissed. I pushed him in his chest. He begged for my forgiveness the best he could since he barley spoke English. I told him next time I will slap him hard and report it.

Well, my weigh in for this week..Monday morning is 203. So I'm down a good 6lbs thanks to my job. I'm almost out of the 200's!

Weigh In Week 2

2009-10-20T15:22:00.000-07:00

Look at that! I lost a whole whopping pound! I better slow down, I'll be wearing a 9/10 in a wink of an eye! Honestly, that's good. Your girl over here was pigging out after I declared the Fatbusters program on blog. Ate so much that I was up to 215lbs. When I saw that, I panicked. How could I face blog world with the 5lbs gained?! So the last several days I cut out a lot (no too much). Went walking and drank water. So this morning I was scared and anxious about the weigh in. To my surprise I lost a pound from my start weight. I'm ok, hey I went down, right? Again, I will be doing the 3 day diet. Hopefully that will shed some pounds off quick b4 the wedding.Sorry it took long posting. I had a job interview. It went well.Enjoy your day!

2009-10-20T15:19:00.000-07:00

Weigh in tommorrow.I'm so not ready. I didn't even post a pic...I'm sure you know how I'm feeling.Why did I start this foolishness?! I could back out, but I can't. When I start something, I finish it. DANG!!!!! Alright, I'll confess now. Did pretty bad. Been overwhelmed because I care for my 90yr. old grandmother. It's not a glamorous job at all! Basically I'm the nurse. I bet you guys are saying, "what does that has to do with her losing weight." You are right, it has nothing to do with it.However, lol, hubby and I have a wedding go to in NY. There is this blouse I want to fit in and I pray that I do. It's very pretty. So I'm going to do the 3 day diet 2morrow. I wanna look nice for this event.I'll be back in 8-9 hours to report what the scale says, ohhhh noooooo!

Different Me 1st Week

2009-10-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

Ok so this is my start weight ladies and gents 210.4. I apologize for the glare but it does say what it says, lol.
This weekend I have been munching since I knew I'll be doing the whole eating right, but I did lose 2lbs from last week.
I'm thinking about doing the jump start of the 3 day diet (read last post) but I'm not sure. It's a bit strict.
Again, I'll be weighing in every Monday. So this week I will try and kick butt! I will push myself to exercise very day for at least 30 mins. No sweets/sodas for me! Straight water or Crystal Light. I will try and do more fruits and veggies then usual. May the games begin!

Past & Present Pictures

2009-10-20T13:04:00.000-07:00

Small Me Size 9/10 & 11/12

Oh no, at my largest ever! I was HUGE! Size 20!

I could have passed as baby elephant since I was standing next to those animals.

Everyone is small but me!

Size 18 jeans

Summer 2009

Size 16, still look big

My sisters and I. Growing up, I was always the biggest one and they were the skinny ones. Sis on the left was 7months preggers.

Me on my 33rd birthday. Aug. 6, 2009. I was 195lb