Article by Ian Kerner
I came across this article on CNN’s website. Let me first start off by saying I completely trust Tony and he completely trusts me. We have a wonderful marriage. While Tony and I do not have the emotional affair issues outlined in this article, the article does bring up some very good points. I do think everyone with a facebook account should read this article.
Topics of this article are: don’t romanticize the past at the expense of the present, don’t keep secrets, emotional affairs, facebook friends more powerful than internet porn, and disconnecting your facebook account.
Kerner: “Until the advent of Facebook, though, most of us were compelled to leave the past in the past and move on. But now exes of all stripes - high school sweethearts, college lovers, former hookups - are popping up on Facebook. When two people strike up an online friendship, it’s easy to idealize each other and blur the line between fantasy and reality. An intense sense of intimacy is quickly fostered, particularly if intimacy was once shared in the past.”
When it comes to exes on facebook Tony and I made a decision a few years ago they do not belong as friends. Even though we are not worried about each other getting a bit too friendly when it comes to messaging an ex through facebook, we just prefer to not even have it as an option. I’ve had a few try to friend me and decline all the invites. I don’t even want those memories!
Even though we may not be friends with exes on facebook it does not prevent non-friends from sending emails unless we block that ability in our settings. Another agreement we made is to be open about who contacts us. Just as it says in the article if you are open about it you have nothing to hide. Even though we trust each other it is better for the relationship to have all the cards on the table. I’m sure you can imagine how I would react if I found an email from an ex-girlfriend. Even if innocent…you don’t tell me there will be hell to pay.
Kerner: “And in those rare instances where I have accepted an ex as a Facebook friend, or written back, I’ve informed my wife and let her read every correspondence. Not because she doesn’t trust me, but because we have nothing to hide. Once you have something to hide, that’s where the trouble begins. So if an old flame is on your case, just say, ‘I’m in a relationship now. I wish you all the best.’”
A few weeks ago I cleaned out my facebook friends. I deleted over 80 people. My friends list built to people I went to high school with but never talked to, former coworkers, and people I hardly knew. I kept good friends from high school, current friends, and relatives. My list is still over 200 people and would have to guess almost half of them are relatives in my side and Tony’s side. I decided I did not want my information shared with people I rarely know. I locked down my account so if you are not a friend the only thing you can see is my picture and name. I would delete it if it was not for me living so far away from my family. I will admit it was hard being that person to delete others for fear of hurting other people’s feelings but I had a fuck it moment and started deleting away and it felt GOOD! I wish Tony would do the same to his account for the people he does not know very well since my pictures are on his profile. Looking at it now it really is creepy to have people you hardly know have access to personal details of your life. Facebook is not a popularity contest. Out of respect for each other Tony and I have deleted friends the other did not like. Respecting your spouse is more important than hurting the feelings of someone you hardly know.
I really hope you read this article. It is short but some good points.
Read the full article: http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2011/03/03/e-motional-affairs-how-facebook-leads-to-infidelity/?hpt=C2
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
A Small Furry Prayer - Book Review
A Small Furry Prayer
By Steven Kotler
This book is about a husband and wife that left their life in California and took off to New Mexico to start a dog rescue program. These two are truly amazing human beings for giving up their life to dog rescue. Month to month they did not know if they would have enough money to pay their bills but always made it through. I laughed at the humor about the goofy things his dogs do and teared up when they would lose a dog. I learned Willow Tree branches have a form of Aspirin in them that animal eat in the wild. Interesting since I caught my dogs eating them before.
This book also provided an education just like The Lost Dogs. It also touched on the connection humans have with animals. “Archeologists have fourteen-thousand year old skeletons of humans and dogs sharing the same grave sites and so adopted 12,000 BCE as the start date for our cohabitation.” AMAZING!
In previous postings you probably read about me recognizing the pack in my dogs. Having three is very different than having two when it comes to the pack. I can’t stand people that leave their dogs outside in the cold. What is the point in having a dog if you never let them inside? This brings me to another interesting part of the book. “Because dogs live in dens, they never willingly sleep along. Since most people only have one dog, sleeping outside means sleeping alone, and learning to do so requires a difficult psychological adjustment on the dog’s part that frequently leads to later difficulties in pack integration.”
When reading this book I recognized so many things my dogs do and was able to make sense of them. Like when Jack only uses one paw to play with Oscar. He has 70 pounds on Oscar and yet when they play disables himself to only using one paw. Giving himself a personal handicap to even out the fight. I found the following research fascinating. The research below was performed by University of Colorado biologist Marc Bekoff and University of Idaho animal behaviorist John Bayers.
“They reexamed forty years of research on play fighting in squirrel monkeys. Almost immediately they noticed what should have been long obvious: during actual combat squirrel monkeys bite each other, but this rarely happens during play. This is a problem because only the repetition of exact patterns of movement can produce muscle memory and only with muscle memory does practice make perfect. There were other problems as well. The monkeys who played the most as children didn’t win the most fights as adults, and the monkeys who won the most play fights when they were younger didn’t win the most real fights when they were grown up. They found no correlation between play fighting and real fighting. They examined the data in other species and found the same results. If play fighting wasn’t training for real fighting, then what purpose could it possibly serve? Turns out the purpose is moral. The fact that all animals self-handicap might mean the purpose of play fighting isn’t to teach animals how to win, but teach them how to win and lose. All animals probably need to know both the dominant and the subordinate role, because no animal starts out on top, and no animal who lives to old age ends on the top either."
One thing I found really disturbing is in 1800’s dog catchers in New York City were taking stray dogs, putting them into cages and throwing them into the East River. Dog catchers were paid by the dog; as a result pets were missing as well. In 1897 the ASPA got involved to take care of animal control duties and found more humane ways to euthanize dogs.
Towards the end of the book Kotler addresses if animals believe in God and fear death. There is a lot to write about in this section; more than I should put in a blog post. I found this section of the book extremely interesting. Animals do grieve. I witnessed Sydney grieve for Otis when he died. You must buy the book even to just read this section. Really moving not just about dogs but about other mammals that grieve over loss of their mates and pack and the things they do to find comfort.
Another great book! I wish I could be as brave as these two and devote my life to animal rescue. If only I could win the lottery and quit my job. Two truly amazing people I admire. This book provides so much more history and learning than what I describe here. I really encourage you to buy this book and read more about Steve and Joy, their dogs, their cause, and and all the other interesting facts Steve provides. Love it!
By Steven Kotler
This book is about a husband and wife that left their life in California and took off to New Mexico to start a dog rescue program. These two are truly amazing human beings for giving up their life to dog rescue. Month to month they did not know if they would have enough money to pay their bills but always made it through. I laughed at the humor about the goofy things his dogs do and teared up when they would lose a dog. I learned Willow Tree branches have a form of Aspirin in them that animal eat in the wild. Interesting since I caught my dogs eating them before.
This book also provided an education just like The Lost Dogs. It also touched on the connection humans have with animals. “Archeologists have fourteen-thousand year old skeletons of humans and dogs sharing the same grave sites and so adopted 12,000 BCE as the start date for our cohabitation.” AMAZING!
In previous postings you probably read about me recognizing the pack in my dogs. Having three is very different than having two when it comes to the pack. I can’t stand people that leave their dogs outside in the cold. What is the point in having a dog if you never let them inside? This brings me to another interesting part of the book. “Because dogs live in dens, they never willingly sleep along. Since most people only have one dog, sleeping outside means sleeping alone, and learning to do so requires a difficult psychological adjustment on the dog’s part that frequently leads to later difficulties in pack integration.”
When reading this book I recognized so many things my dogs do and was able to make sense of them. Like when Jack only uses one paw to play with Oscar. He has 70 pounds on Oscar and yet when they play disables himself to only using one paw. Giving himself a personal handicap to even out the fight. I found the following research fascinating. The research below was performed by University of Colorado biologist Marc Bekoff and University of Idaho animal behaviorist John Bayers.
“They reexamed forty years of research on play fighting in squirrel monkeys. Almost immediately they noticed what should have been long obvious: during actual combat squirrel monkeys bite each other, but this rarely happens during play. This is a problem because only the repetition of exact patterns of movement can produce muscle memory and only with muscle memory does practice make perfect. There were other problems as well. The monkeys who played the most as children didn’t win the most fights as adults, and the monkeys who won the most play fights when they were younger didn’t win the most real fights when they were grown up. They found no correlation between play fighting and real fighting. They examined the data in other species and found the same results. If play fighting wasn’t training for real fighting, then what purpose could it possibly serve? Turns out the purpose is moral. The fact that all animals self-handicap might mean the purpose of play fighting isn’t to teach animals how to win, but teach them how to win and lose. All animals probably need to know both the dominant and the subordinate role, because no animal starts out on top, and no animal who lives to old age ends on the top either."
One thing I found really disturbing is in 1800’s dog catchers in New York City were taking stray dogs, putting them into cages and throwing them into the East River. Dog catchers were paid by the dog; as a result pets were missing as well. In 1897 the ASPA got involved to take care of animal control duties and found more humane ways to euthanize dogs.
Towards the end of the book Kotler addresses if animals believe in God and fear death. There is a lot to write about in this section; more than I should put in a blog post. I found this section of the book extremely interesting. Animals do grieve. I witnessed Sydney grieve for Otis when he died. You must buy the book even to just read this section. Really moving not just about dogs but about other mammals that grieve over loss of their mates and pack and the things they do to find comfort.
Another great book! I wish I could be as brave as these two and devote my life to animal rescue. If only I could win the lottery and quit my job. Two truly amazing people I admire. This book provides so much more history and learning than what I describe here. I really encourage you to buy this book and read more about Steve and Joy, their dogs, their cause, and and all the other interesting facts Steve provides. Love it!
Check out their rescue organization: http://www.ranchodechihuahua.org/.
My Good Day and Bad Day in Karate
Yesterday in karate I had a good time and a bad time. In line drill I performed the best I have since before my knee surgery. I still need to work on turning to the side better but that will come with time once my knee is fully healed. Right now the twisting can be a bit too hard on my knee. If you do not know what line drill is I think the best way to describe it is one person stands facing a line of people. The people come one at a time either punching or kicking and you have to defend against them. The line moves pretty fast when we go full speed. You and probably You Tube it to see what it looks like. It felt great. I was able to get most of my confidence back in line drill.
In the next class we did kick drills and worked on katas. My kicks still need to get a bit higher but doing well considering. I worked with one of the master instructors on my bo kata and he said I was doing really well. Just a few things I need to fix.
The last class we sparred and did another line drill. I used to love to spar, which is fighting. When I fractured my toes in November 2009 I stopped sparring. I am defensive so sparring is not something I am tested on but still need to be good at for the promotion ceremony. I hadn’t sparred in a while and quite frankly suck at it. The people in class were really great with helping relearn some of the basic techniques when really they could have taken advantage of the situation and kicked the crap out of me. I can not use kicks in sparring…well I could but I would not be able to get them up high enough or fast enough to make them effective at this point and probably would have injured myself. Not being able to kick in sparring creates a huge disadvantage but also makes me work harder on my hand movements which still suck right now. I was hit in the face a few times and have a nice mark above my eyebrow today but it does not hurt. Can’t win them all and need to take the beating to learn how to defend.
When we did the line drill in the last class I told everyone no take downs for me. People do forget and it does happen when you get in the moment. I can’t be taken down hard until my knee is healed. Well, one person forgot and I was not prepared. I went flat down on my back and neck. I could not see their faces but hear the noises the people in line made and I knew it did not look good. It hurt so badly it took everything I had not to cry. That teaches me I need to be prepared at all times because I cannot rely on other people to remember. Today at work I look rather interesting. My face is not looking good from the back and neck pain and stomach pain since I took Advil on an empty stomach last night. I have a heating pad on me. Ice would be nice but there is not an ice pack large enough for my neck and back. Heat is the next best thing. During line drill I kept trying to keep going after that slam and then my toe bent funny and tripped over it. Instructor had me sit aside after that. It does not feel like I fractured it again but hurts today. Same toe I dropped my handheld blender on last week.
In the next class we did kick drills and worked on katas. My kicks still need to get a bit higher but doing well considering. I worked with one of the master instructors on my bo kata and he said I was doing really well. Just a few things I need to fix.
The last class we sparred and did another line drill. I used to love to spar, which is fighting. When I fractured my toes in November 2009 I stopped sparring. I am defensive so sparring is not something I am tested on but still need to be good at for the promotion ceremony. I hadn’t sparred in a while and quite frankly suck at it. The people in class were really great with helping relearn some of the basic techniques when really they could have taken advantage of the situation and kicked the crap out of me. I can not use kicks in sparring…well I could but I would not be able to get them up high enough or fast enough to make them effective at this point and probably would have injured myself. Not being able to kick in sparring creates a huge disadvantage but also makes me work harder on my hand movements which still suck right now. I was hit in the face a few times and have a nice mark above my eyebrow today but it does not hurt. Can’t win them all and need to take the beating to learn how to defend.
When we did the line drill in the last class I told everyone no take downs for me. People do forget and it does happen when you get in the moment. I can’t be taken down hard until my knee is healed. Well, one person forgot and I was not prepared. I went flat down on my back and neck. I could not see their faces but hear the noises the people in line made and I knew it did not look good. It hurt so badly it took everything I had not to cry. That teaches me I need to be prepared at all times because I cannot rely on other people to remember. Today at work I look rather interesting. My face is not looking good from the back and neck pain and stomach pain since I took Advil on an empty stomach last night. I have a heating pad on me. Ice would be nice but there is not an ice pack large enough for my neck and back. Heat is the next best thing. During line drill I kept trying to keep going after that slam and then my toe bent funny and tripped over it. Instructor had me sit aside after that. It does not feel like I fractured it again but hurts today. Same toe I dropped my handheld blender on last week.
Thirty-One Is Awesome!
http://www.mythirtyone.com/Lbrantley3/
Last fall I was introduced to Thirty-One products. Honestly when I first looked at their catalog I thought to myself, this stuff is just not my style. At a party I ordered their large utility tote. Once the consultant told me about using it for trips to BJ’s or Costco I was sold on it. I also ordered a large make up bag that looked like it would be great for traveling and a lunch bag for Tony; just the right size to fit in his saddle bag and large enough to hold all the food he takes to work.
My show was $500 and here are my rewards. $100 in free product, purchase the Cindy Tote for $20 (a $68 value), one hostess exclusive item, three items half off, free shipping, and 10% off anything else I ordered. Now what did I all buy recently? Here it all is.
- Cindy Tote: This is a great bag for taking to work.
- Apron: Gift for mom, I really want this as well for myself but am going to wait to see mom’s before buying one. Very cute but not sure about how it ties.
- 2 nail files: their nail files are awesome, not too hard and not too soft.
- Skirt Purse w/ two skirts: These are awesome. You buy different skirts and change up the look. Nice size purse too.
- Large Thermal Cooler: Great for keeping food cold in your car when grocery shopping. It is square so also great for stacking.
- Thermal Tote: Bought this one for myself. Zebra print – Fun!
- About a Town Blanket: Gift for sister in law. Bottom is waterproof. Perfect for picnics and concerts.
- Rolling Tote: Carry on size for traveling.
- Organizing Utility Tote: I am going to use this for my Tastefully Simple parties to keep organized…if I ever get someone to host a party for me.
- 2 luggage tags
- Flat Iron Case: Also fits curling irons. You would not believe how many Marriott hand towels I have because I had to curl and go when checking out.
- Rosetta clips: For dolling up my purse.
- Jewelry Pouches: I am adding these to my jewelry roll bag to store extra earrings and rings.
- Coin Purse Wallet: Have not seen this one in person yet but it looks nice.
- Card tote with 30 cards: You will not find a better deal than this. It comes with 30 cards and the tote to store your other cards in. Since when do you pay a $1 for a card any more and get a small tote?
- City Weekender Tote
I am so excited about my Cindy Tote, City Weekender Tote, and Rolling Tote. These three pieces are going to be so nice for weekend get aways, which Tony and I take every few months. Along with my other travel pieces, Flat Iron Case, Jewelry Roll Pouch, Cosmetic Bag, and Large Zipper Pouches it is the perfect traveling set!
Even after listing all of those items there are still more I want to get but I had to stop somewhere. Other items I see a huge use for are:
- Collapsible Cube: I really could use this in my car. I have CD’s and other things laying everywhere.
- Fold and Go Organizer: Very cute for writing down grocery lists or anything that comes to your mind. They have a large and small one. Unsure which one I would want.
- Manicure Kit: When my manicure items need to be replaced this is top on my list.
- Laptop Case: I love this for traveling but the pattern out this season is not my style.
- Square Utility Tote: Perfect size for when I do not have enough to fill the large utility tote.
- Garment Bag: This is another hostess exclusive item. I would have to host another party to be able to earn this item. Would be perfect to finish my traveling set.
There are two items I would like to see them make; a passport holder and a holder for vehicle documents so my glove box would not be such a mess.
To top all of this off I have the most awesome Thirty-One Consultant. She is such a fun person and as sweet as can be. If you live in the Raleigh area and want to host a party look her up. For all my friends outside of the area please visit her website for shopping. You can access their PDF catalog as well online. I honestly never thought I would be so obsessed with their products. If they can convert the Tattooed Modern Wife – they can convert you!
http://www.mythirtyone.com/Lbrantley3/
March’s special is for every $31 you spend get a purse half off!
April’s special is for every $31 you spend get the All-in-One Organizer half off.
Last fall I was introduced to Thirty-One products. Honestly when I first looked at their catalog I thought to myself, this stuff is just not my style. At a party I ordered their large utility tote. Once the consultant told me about using it for trips to BJ’s or Costco I was sold on it. I also ordered a large make up bag that looked like it would be great for traveling and a lunch bag for Tony; just the right size to fit in his saddle bag and large enough to hold all the food he takes to work.
After I received my order I was very pleased with what I bought. My friend who hosted the previous party decided to become a consultant. At the next party I bought the jewelry pouch for traveling (which as you all know I do a lot of), another utility tote, nail file, and received three free large zipper pouches for my purchases. Which I also use for traveling. I just cannot get over how useful their stuff is. They really put thought behind the design of each item. You also can get items embroidered.
Once I saw the Spring/Summer catalog in January I had to host a party to earn free stuff. I held the party last Saturday and made out pretty well. I also placed an order at a friend’s party. Their February special was for every $31 spent you get one item 31% off. Even though I was having my own party I just think it is the right thing to do to place an order at your friends. It is a way of helping friends out. Anytime I am invited to a party, no matter what type, I always try to go and if I cannot I will at least place an order. It is friends helping friends out and it is fun to get together with a group of girls and chat.
Once I saw the Spring/Summer catalog in January I had to host a party to earn free stuff. I held the party last Saturday and made out pretty well. I also placed an order at a friend’s party. Their February special was for every $31 spent you get one item 31% off. Even though I was having my own party I just think it is the right thing to do to place an order at your friends. It is a way of helping friends out. Anytime I am invited to a party, no matter what type, I always try to go and if I cannot I will at least place an order. It is friends helping friends out and it is fun to get together with a group of girls and chat.
My show was $500 and here are my rewards. $100 in free product, purchase the Cindy Tote for $20 (a $68 value), one hostess exclusive item, three items half off, free shipping, and 10% off anything else I ordered. Now what did I all buy recently? Here it all is.
- Cindy Tote: This is a great bag for taking to work.
- Apron: Gift for mom, I really want this as well for myself but am going to wait to see mom’s before buying one. Very cute but not sure about how it ties.
- 2 nail files: their nail files are awesome, not too hard and not too soft.
- Skirt Purse w/ two skirts: These are awesome. You buy different skirts and change up the look. Nice size purse too.
- Large Thermal Cooler: Great for keeping food cold in your car when grocery shopping. It is square so also great for stacking.
- Thermal Tote: Bought this one for myself. Zebra print – Fun!
- About a Town Blanket: Gift for sister in law. Bottom is waterproof. Perfect for picnics and concerts.
- Rolling Tote: Carry on size for traveling.
- Organizing Utility Tote: I am going to use this for my Tastefully Simple parties to keep organized…if I ever get someone to host a party for me.
- 2 luggage tags
- Flat Iron Case: Also fits curling irons. You would not believe how many Marriott hand towels I have because I had to curl and go when checking out.
- Rosetta clips: For dolling up my purse.
- Jewelry Pouches: I am adding these to my jewelry roll bag to store extra earrings and rings.
- Coin Purse Wallet: Have not seen this one in person yet but it looks nice.
- Card tote with 30 cards: You will not find a better deal than this. It comes with 30 cards and the tote to store your other cards in. Since when do you pay a $1 for a card any more and get a small tote?
- City Weekender Tote
I am so excited about my Cindy Tote, City Weekender Tote, and Rolling Tote. These three pieces are going to be so nice for weekend get aways, which Tony and I take every few months. Along with my other travel pieces, Flat Iron Case, Jewelry Roll Pouch, Cosmetic Bag, and Large Zipper Pouches it is the perfect traveling set!
Even after listing all of those items there are still more I want to get but I had to stop somewhere. Other items I see a huge use for are:
- Collapsible Cube: I really could use this in my car. I have CD’s and other things laying everywhere.
- Fold and Go Organizer: Very cute for writing down grocery lists or anything that comes to your mind. They have a large and small one. Unsure which one I would want.
- Manicure Kit: When my manicure items need to be replaced this is top on my list.
- Laptop Case: I love this for traveling but the pattern out this season is not my style.
- Square Utility Tote: Perfect size for when I do not have enough to fill the large utility tote.
- Garment Bag: This is another hostess exclusive item. I would have to host another party to be able to earn this item. Would be perfect to finish my traveling set.
There are two items I would like to see them make; a passport holder and a holder for vehicle documents so my glove box would not be such a mess.
To top all of this off I have the most awesome Thirty-One Consultant. She is such a fun person and as sweet as can be. If you live in the Raleigh area and want to host a party look her up. For all my friends outside of the area please visit her website for shopping. You can access their PDF catalog as well online. I honestly never thought I would be so obsessed with their products. If they can convert the Tattooed Modern Wife – they can convert you!
http://www.mythirtyone.com/Lbrantley3/
March’s special is for every $31 you spend get a purse half off!
April’s special is for every $31 you spend get the All-in-One Organizer half off.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Olay Has Been Removed from the Suck It List
Olay responded to my email yesterday about my disappointment with the Olay Pro-X Cleansing System. Even though I did not save my receipt they are still going to send me a check for the full value of the system. Since they took the right steps to correct the problem they are not removed from the SUCK IT list. They really went above and beyond what other companies do. Weight Watchers did nothing when I complained about my disappointment with the points plus system and said I was switching back to the old system on my own. Maybe I need to add Points Plus to my SUCK IT list.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Tony: I Learned Not to Ask Why
Tony witnessed my rolling pin cellulite routine for the first time this morning. Our conversation went something like this.
I get out the rolling pin.
Tony: You are actually going to do that in front of me?
Me: [laughing] Yeah. [I begin rolling in my cellulite cream]
Tony: You know, I've always questioned why women do certain things to make themselves look beautiful; like when they put the cucumbers on their eyes. But after witnessing that, I learned not to ask why any more.
I get out the rolling pin.
Tony: You are actually going to do that in front of me?
Me: [laughing] Yeah. [I begin rolling in my cellulite cream]
Tony: You know, I've always questioned why women do certain things to make themselves look beautiful; like when they put the cucumbers on their eyes. But after witnessing that, I learned not to ask why any more.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Turkey Cutlets
I found this recipe on Gina's Skinny Recipes. She is a great food blogger with low fat recipes.
I ended up eating mine with pasta sauce and Tony at his with BBQ sauce. Another recipe Tony wants again. I served it with Parmesan Pasta Roni, beans, and rye bread but next time I think I am going to serve it with angel hair pasta and marinara sauce.
http://www.skinnytaste.com/2009/11/turkey-cutlets-with-parmesan-crust.html.
Turkey Cutlets with Parmesan Bread-Crumb Crust
Gina's Weight Watcher Recipes
Servings: 8 • Serving Size: 1 cutlet • Old Points: 4 pts • Points+: 5 pts
Calories: 184 • Fat: 6.2 g • Carb: 5.8 g • Fiber: 0.9 g • Protein: 25.9 g
•8 (4 oz) turkey breast cutlets
•4 egg whites, beat
•3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
•1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
•salt and fresh pepper
•2 tbsp butter
•2 tsp olive oil
•lemon wedges for serving
Heat oven to 250°.
Season cutlets with salt and pepper. Combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese in a medium bowl. In another bowl beat egg whites. Dip turkey cutlets in egg whites, then breadcrumb mixture, shaking off excess.
Heat a large nonstick frying pan on medium heat. Add half of the butter and olive oil. When butter melts, add 4 cutlets and cook a few minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside on a baking sheet and keep warm in oven. Add remaining butter and oil to frying pan. Cook remaining cutlets. Serve with lemon wedges.
Turkey Cutlets with Parmesan Bread-Crumb Crust
Gina's Weight Watcher Recipes
Servings: 8 • Serving Size: 1 cutlet • Old Points: 4 pts • Points+: 5 pts
Calories: 184 • Fat: 6.2 g • Carb: 5.8 g • Fiber: 0.9 g • Protein: 25.9 g
•8 (4 oz) turkey breast cutlets
•4 egg whites, beat
•3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
•1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
•salt and fresh pepper
•2 tbsp butter
•2 tsp olive oil
•lemon wedges for serving
Heat oven to 250°.
Season cutlets with salt and pepper. Combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese in a medium bowl. In another bowl beat egg whites. Dip turkey cutlets in egg whites, then breadcrumb mixture, shaking off excess.
Heat a large nonstick frying pan on medium heat. Add half of the butter and olive oil. When butter melts, add 4 cutlets and cook a few minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside on a baking sheet and keep warm in oven. Add remaining butter and oil to frying pan. Cook remaining cutlets. Serve with lemon wedges.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Product Review - Olay Pro-X Cleansing System
About a week and a half ago I bought the Olay Pro-X Cleansing System hoping it would reduce the wrinkles I have. Well it did not reduce my wrinkles (did not expect it to in less than two weeks) but it did break my skin out. I have six huge red pimples on my face. I do battle with break outs from stress but NOTHING like this. It is clearly from using this tool. The bristles dig into the pours and aggravate them. I am so incredibly disappointed and I spent $30 on this miracle kit! I emailed my complaint to Olay and doubt they will even respond to it. They are now on my SUCK IT list.
My review: Product is crap if your skin is sensitive to pimples.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
My New Cellulite Routine
Last week I read a new cellulite trick. For the last few years I have been using cellulite cream to help make my skin puffy to reduce the dimples of my cellulite. St. Ives seems to work the best for me and was rated number one about two years ago. Now I am adding one more step onto this routine...a rolling pin. Yes, you read that right. In the article I read they said to use a rolling pin to help break up the cellulite; which makes sense to me since massaging the areas helps reduce the appearance of cellulite. I started this late last week and can already see a small difference. Tony has yet to catch me doing this. It really must look funny when I am rolling my butt. For those that eat my cut out cookies at Christmas time, don't worry, I will buy a new rolling pin.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Valentine's Day
I like to relax on Valentine’s Day with Tony. It is nothing I ever really made a big deal over. This year I told him not to get me flowers or chocolate. I do not like spending money on flowers when we grow them in our yard. I do not need chocolate since I am trying to lose weight.
This year I prepared lasagna on Sunday night. Since Tony gets home about two hours before I do now all he had to do was put it in the oven before I came home on Monday. I also made Hungry Girl Red Velvet cup cakes as our desert. Prepared those on Sunday as well. When I came home yesterday Tony had the lasagna ready along with garlic bread and beans.
Now normally I would post a picture of my amazing lasagna however, this is one of those meals that does not require a picture or directions. If you cannot make lasagna there is no hope for you. All you need to do is throw in some noodles, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, meal, some Italian seasonings, and some spinach if you like. You do not have to measure; just do what looks good. I only measured out what I was using this time around to I could calculate the weight watcher points.
Back to our evening. We rented a movie from Netflix called Play the Game with Andy Griffith. Half of the move was about his character trying to get women at the retirement home. It started out slow. The guy that plays his grandson is not that great of an actor but the movie gets better. We laughed through most of it. I really was surprised there were no romantic movies on any of the TV stations last night. Last year there were a few to choose from.
So now you may be wondering what did I get for Valentine’s Day. I asked Tony to clean my car. Now many of you may think that is not that big of a deal but if you saw or even smelt the inside of my car you would understand. I hate cleaning my car. Tony wanted a new Ford emblem for his truck since his is deteriorating. He bought it on Ebay.
When it comes to gift giving I prefer to be surprised. Tony does not do this very often at all. Ever few years if that but I also think that is what makes surprise gifts so special. I am not talking about when we are in a store and I see something I like and he tells me to buy it. It is when he finds something he knows I will like or buys something just because he was thinking of me. That is what counts. The last time he surprised me was about three years ago. He used money he won in safety bingo at work to buy me a necklace I liked at Kohls. I was so shocked. He never bought me jewelry for no reason. Even small gifts like a Hershey teddy bear he found at the airport on his way home from a work trip. That was about 4 years ago and it still sits on my dresser. A few years back while he had to get a few things at Walmart he came home with a tank top for me that was on clearance. It is a cute shirt and even funnier it came from Walmart. I cannot wear it because it is white and completely see through. My nipples say hello to the world. But I still keep it. Probably the first and last time he will ever surprise me with a piece of clothing. However, every year when I get out my summer clothes I pull out that white tank top, try it on and remember why I do not wear, and put it back with a smile on my face because he bought it for me.
So for me, I do not care to get gifts from Tony because of a holiday or birthday. I do not want him to feel obligated. I prefer to be surprised with random gifts. Even if they are cheap and every few years. Those are the ones I remember.
This year I prepared lasagna on Sunday night. Since Tony gets home about two hours before I do now all he had to do was put it in the oven before I came home on Monday. I also made Hungry Girl Red Velvet cup cakes as our desert. Prepared those on Sunday as well. When I came home yesterday Tony had the lasagna ready along with garlic bread and beans.
Now normally I would post a picture of my amazing lasagna however, this is one of those meals that does not require a picture or directions. If you cannot make lasagna there is no hope for you. All you need to do is throw in some noodles, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, meal, some Italian seasonings, and some spinach if you like. You do not have to measure; just do what looks good. I only measured out what I was using this time around to I could calculate the weight watcher points.
Back to our evening. We rented a movie from Netflix called Play the Game with Andy Griffith. Half of the move was about his character trying to get women at the retirement home. It started out slow. The guy that plays his grandson is not that great of an actor but the movie gets better. We laughed through most of it. I really was surprised there were no romantic movies on any of the TV stations last night. Last year there were a few to choose from.
So now you may be wondering what did I get for Valentine’s Day. I asked Tony to clean my car. Now many of you may think that is not that big of a deal but if you saw or even smelt the inside of my car you would understand. I hate cleaning my car. Tony wanted a new Ford emblem for his truck since his is deteriorating. He bought it on Ebay.
When it comes to gift giving I prefer to be surprised. Tony does not do this very often at all. Ever few years if that but I also think that is what makes surprise gifts so special. I am not talking about when we are in a store and I see something I like and he tells me to buy it. It is when he finds something he knows I will like or buys something just because he was thinking of me. That is what counts. The last time he surprised me was about three years ago. He used money he won in safety bingo at work to buy me a necklace I liked at Kohls. I was so shocked. He never bought me jewelry for no reason. Even small gifts like a Hershey teddy bear he found at the airport on his way home from a work trip. That was about 4 years ago and it still sits on my dresser. A few years back while he had to get a few things at Walmart he came home with a tank top for me that was on clearance. It is a cute shirt and even funnier it came from Walmart. I cannot wear it because it is white and completely see through. My nipples say hello to the world. But I still keep it. Probably the first and last time he will ever surprise me with a piece of clothing. However, every year when I get out my summer clothes I pull out that white tank top, try it on and remember why I do not wear, and put it back with a smile on my face because he bought it for me.
So for me, I do not care to get gifts from Tony because of a holiday or birthday. I do not want him to feel obligated. I prefer to be surprised with random gifts. Even if they are cheap and every few years. Those are the ones I remember.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Valentine's Day Email
Email Communication between Tony and Me about Valentine’s Day. Enjoy.
Tony: Next year, I would like to get you something delivered at your work. It is just nice to do little things even though you don’t need them.
Me: It is just hard for me to justify $80 worth of flowers when we can cut them out of our back yard in a month.
Tony: Balloons and a card delivered would be cheaper option.
Me: You ever have balloons sent to me I will kick you in the nuts.
Tony: That is nice to know.
Tony: Next year, I would like to get you something delivered at your work. It is just nice to do little things even though you don’t need them.
Me: It is just hard for me to justify $80 worth of flowers when we can cut them out of our back yard in a month.
Tony: Balloons and a card delivered would be cheaper option.
Me: You ever have balloons sent to me I will kick you in the nuts.
Tony: That is nice to know.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
My Babies
Jack turned three years old this week. He is still such an active dog.
Last week we found out Sydney has early kidney disease. She is going to be 8 years old in July. I am glad it was caught early but not looking forward to the years ahead as she ages. This coming Saturday I take her in for a blood pressure check. We are going to start off with special diet food for her and also feed her fish oil pills. That is about all we can do for now until it worsens.
Milo had his yearly appointment on Saturday. He also turns 8 this year. He is a very healthy cat. Just needs a teeth cleaning and already scheduled in two weeks.
Oscar turns 6 next month. His yearly vet appointment is next month and he also needs a teeth cleaning. They are not cheap but it is cheaper than having to remove their teeth because they are not taken care of. They only need it every few years.
Short video of Sydney and Jack playing. Probably about a year and a half old.
Last week we found out Sydney has early kidney disease. She is going to be 8 years old in July. I am glad it was caught early but not looking forward to the years ahead as she ages. This coming Saturday I take her in for a blood pressure check. We are going to start off with special diet food for her and also feed her fish oil pills. That is about all we can do for now until it worsens.
Milo had his yearly appointment on Saturday. He also turns 8 this year. He is a very healthy cat. Just needs a teeth cleaning and already scheduled in two weeks.
Oscar turns 6 next month. His yearly vet appointment is next month and he also needs a teeth cleaning. They are not cheap but it is cheaper than having to remove their teeth because they are not taken care of. They only need it every few years.
Short video of Sydney and Jack playing. Probably about a year and a half old.
Greek Turkey Burgers
These were super yummy. I found this recipe from All You Magazine, Health and Fitness Special.
The recipe calls for fresh mint and I could not justify spending $4 on a small package of mint so I used other seasoning in my pantry. I sprinkled 1/2 tsp onion salt, 3/4 tsp garlic salt, and 1/2 tsp seasoned salt to give it some more flavor. If you are one of those people that buys bread crumbs in a container STOP now. Just put a piece of bread in the toaster and then crumble it up.
Greek Turkey Burgers
Ingredients:
1 lb 93% lean ground turkey
1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 large egg (I used egg beaters)
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp pepper
Directions:
1. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and use your fingers to mix gently but thoroughly. Divide mixture into 4 balls. Flatten balls into disks with your hand and press your thumb in center of each to keep meat from rising too high as it cooks. Warm a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and mist with cooking spray (or use your grill).
2. Cook burgers, turning over once, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into burger reads 165 degrees, 10 to 15 minutes.
Per serving: 207 Cal; 5 g Fat; 87 mg Chol; 0 Fiber; 32 g Pro; 3 g Carb; 328 mg Sod.
5 Weight Watcher Points under old system.
Slow-Cooker Salsa Chicken
I made this yesterday for dinner. It is so good and low in fat. I ate mine with low fat tortilla chip and Tony made his into a chicken taco. The best thing was I used ingredients I already had in my pantry and fridge.
Black beans were not on the ingredient list but I added them in. When the meal was about ready it still looked a little watery to me so I filled that in by using the black beans. The recipe calls for salsa but does not say if it is chunky or pureed. I used pureed which is why I think it was more watery. My suggestion would be if you are using the pureed salsa do not add the 1/2 cup of water the recipe calls for. If you are using chunky salsa then add the 1/2 cup water. I loved it with the black beans added to it. Also I did not think it had that much of a taco flavor. I ran out of taco seasoning so I added Tastefully Simples Fiesta Party Dip Mix to give it more spice. If you do not have that I suggest adding another 1 - 2 tbs of taco seasoning.
Slow-Cooker Salsa Chicken
Prep: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 - 8 hrs
Serves: 8
Cost per serving: $1.33
Ingredients:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbs taco seasoning
1 cup canned petite diced tomatoes
1 small onion diced (about a cup)
1/2 cup finely diced celery
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1 cup salsa
3 tbsp reduced fat sour cream
Directions:
1. Spray slow cooker with cooking spray. Place chicken in slow cooker. Sprinkle with taco seasoning. Spread tomatoes, onion, celery, and carrots over the top then cover with salsa. Pour 1/2 cup water over mixture. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
2. Shred chicken with 2 forks. Stir in sour cream and serve.
Per serving: 140 Cal; 2 g Fat; 63 mg Chol, 1 g Fiber, 24 g Pro; 7 g Carbs; 560 mg Sod.
Old Weight Watcher Points: 3 per serving
I am guessing a serving is about 3/4 cup.
Black beans were not on the ingredient list but I added them in. When the meal was about ready it still looked a little watery to me so I filled that in by using the black beans. The recipe calls for salsa but does not say if it is chunky or pureed. I used pureed which is why I think it was more watery. My suggestion would be if you are using the pureed salsa do not add the 1/2 cup of water the recipe calls for. If you are using chunky salsa then add the 1/2 cup water. I loved it with the black beans added to it. Also I did not think it had that much of a taco flavor. I ran out of taco seasoning so I added Tastefully Simples Fiesta Party Dip Mix to give it more spice. If you do not have that I suggest adding another 1 - 2 tbs of taco seasoning.
Slow-Cooker Salsa Chicken
Prep: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 - 8 hrs
Serves: 8
Cost per serving: $1.33
Ingredients:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbs taco seasoning
1 cup canned petite diced tomatoes
1 small onion diced (about a cup)
1/2 cup finely diced celery
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1 cup salsa
3 tbsp reduced fat sour cream
Directions:
1. Spray slow cooker with cooking spray. Place chicken in slow cooker. Sprinkle with taco seasoning. Spread tomatoes, onion, celery, and carrots over the top then cover with salsa. Pour 1/2 cup water over mixture. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
2. Shred chicken with 2 forks. Stir in sour cream and serve.
Per serving: 140 Cal; 2 g Fat; 63 mg Chol, 1 g Fiber, 24 g Pro; 7 g Carbs; 560 mg Sod.
Old Weight Watcher Points: 3 per serving
I am guessing a serving is about 3/4 cup.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Someone has been eating my plant
Thought for the Day
I heard this on my soap today.
"God laughs at people that make plans."
While I plan out what I can within reason you can never plan for the unexpected. Love this quote for that.
"God laughs at people that make plans."
While I plan out what I can within reason you can never plan for the unexpected. Love this quote for that.
Dog Training
Last week Tony and I watched a video on facebook from Rescue Ink. In the video he is feeding about 10 dogs all at the same time and they all are waiting for their dinner. I never thought this would have been possible with my dogs. They jump up and down and freak out as soon as they see food. Saturday morning Tony decided to give it a try. He made the dogs eggs. To our surprise it worked!
Here is the original video provided by Rescue Ink. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6j-v1R8fAM&feature=player_embedded
Here is Tony feeding the dogs. Really funny watching them wait. For those of you that know my dogs you would never think this is possible.
Here is the original video provided by Rescue Ink. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6j-v1R8fAM&feature=player_embedded
Here is Tony feeding the dogs. Really funny watching them wait. For those of you that know my dogs you would never think this is possible.
Hate Points Plus
I was shrinking but am not any more on the Weight Watchers Points Plus plan. My weigh in last week at 135 was a fluke. My Tuesday weigh in (the one that counts) only had me at 138.2. I am now in week 4 of the plan and by now on the old plan I would have lost at least 5 pounds. I emailed Weight Watchers because I want a refund for the three month membership I paid and the cost of new books and calculator. Go figure no response back. I spent around $90 on the new plan when all I want to do is switch back to the old plan. It really makes me angry all the money I spent and really with no results. I could have lost those two pounds on my own. No way I am going to lose another 8 on this plan by August. I feel like I've stabilized myself instead of losing.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Deputy Black Belt
Today in karate we warmed up with kick drills. For the first time in a long time I was able to move around the floor with very little pain. I was so excited when I did a crescent kick into a spinning side kick with no pain. I was practically jumping for joy. My knees were finally cooperating with me. Then, my night got even better. I was given my deputy black belt! What does this mean? I am still technically a first degree brown belt but now I can start testing for my black belt. I am so excited. I cannot believe how far I have come.
Day 2 in My New Job
I just love what I am doing in my new job. So much of it is new but I am learning. I am going to be a project manager on multiple projects coming up in the capital and regulation area of the bank. It is so interesting! It is also nice to be in a bank again that has structure and follows rules. I wish I could erase the last job from my life but then I would not have met a few really nice people that will continue to be my friends for years to come.
Also funny today I received an email from the big bank I contracted at before the shitty job I had at the small venture bank. They have an opportunity for me to come back for another contract. Makes me feel good they wanted me again and I would have taken it if I did not get this new position.
I have this wonderful feeling the job I have is the one I am meant to be in. I see a very bright future for me. Yeah the pay is not exactly what I expected but I will be there in a few years. It makes a difference having a nice boss that is very down to earth.
Also funny today I received an email from the big bank I contracted at before the shitty job I had at the small venture bank. They have an opportunity for me to come back for another contract. Makes me feel good they wanted me again and I would have taken it if I did not get this new position.
I have this wonderful feeling the job I have is the one I am meant to be in. I see a very bright future for me. Yeah the pay is not exactly what I expected but I will be there in a few years. It makes a difference having a nice boss that is very down to earth.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Ending One Job and Starting Another
This past Friday was my last day at Square 1 Bank. The team I worked with took me out to lunch. I have to say I was surprised they took me out to lunch given I was only there for about 7 months. I will miss how funny many of the people on my team were. The job was just not the one for me.
Saturday morning I woke up to breakfast in bed. Tony made me egg whites, turkey bacon, and hash browns to celebrate my new job. He brought it in on a tray. It was so sweet. Huge brownie points for him. We watched The American with George Clooney. It was not good at all. It had some suspenseful moments but the movie really left us confused. I do not understand why it was even nominated for awards. Last weekend we saw The A-Team. It was good but jumped around a bit too much for me.
Today I started my job with the new bank. I work in a trading area where we keep track of the market. MSNBC is on two flat screen TVs. Our desk really are not desks but rather long tables and we each have our own section. I am not used to this type of environment but it will do. Behind me the wall is all windows that over looks Raleigh. I am on the 14th floor out of 21. Floors 23 - 33 are condos. Pretty neat area to sit in. I love being up this high for work. Now the hours are not what I wanted but it works for now. I normally like working early in the morning so I get done early and avoid traffic. I like working 7:30 to 4:00 and now am working 8:30 to 5:30. Hopefully once I am comfortable in my position the hours can be adjusted. My job is in the treasury area managing the capital of the bank. This function of the bank is very new to me which I am fortunate enough to have a manager that understands and will teach me. In my last job I frequently heard from my manager "there is too much of a learning curve for you." She took all that confidence I built over the years and crushed it. I know this job will give it back to me. The work environment reminds me a lot of job I had contracting with the largest bank. I love it!
I have not had a Tastefully Simple Party since the beginning of December and no leads even after I offered a $50 gift card to Target for the first person to book a party. No takers. If I do not get a show next quarter I am going to have to close the chapter on Tastefully Simple. I have enough sales for this quarter but if there are no shows next quarter that is it for me.
Saturday morning I woke up to breakfast in bed. Tony made me egg whites, turkey bacon, and hash browns to celebrate my new job. He brought it in on a tray. It was so sweet. Huge brownie points for him. We watched The American with George Clooney. It was not good at all. It had some suspenseful moments but the movie really left us confused. I do not understand why it was even nominated for awards. Last weekend we saw The A-Team. It was good but jumped around a bit too much for me.
Today I started my job with the new bank. I work in a trading area where we keep track of the market. MSNBC is on two flat screen TVs. Our desk really are not desks but rather long tables and we each have our own section. I am not used to this type of environment but it will do. Behind me the wall is all windows that over looks Raleigh. I am on the 14th floor out of 21. Floors 23 - 33 are condos. Pretty neat area to sit in. I love being up this high for work. Now the hours are not what I wanted but it works for now. I normally like working early in the morning so I get done early and avoid traffic. I like working 7:30 to 4:00 and now am working 8:30 to 5:30. Hopefully once I am comfortable in my position the hours can be adjusted. My job is in the treasury area managing the capital of the bank. This function of the bank is very new to me which I am fortunate enough to have a manager that understands and will teach me. In my last job I frequently heard from my manager "there is too much of a learning curve for you." She took all that confidence I built over the years and crushed it. I know this job will give it back to me. The work environment reminds me a lot of job I had contracting with the largest bank. I love it!
I have not had a Tastefully Simple Party since the beginning of December and no leads even after I offered a $50 gift card to Target for the first person to book a party. No takers. If I do not get a show next quarter I am going to have to close the chapter on Tastefully Simple. I have enough sales for this quarter but if there are no shows next quarter that is it for me.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Thought for the Day
Found this quote on the internet. Loved it!
Whoever dies thinking, "I wish I had spent more time at my job?"
Whoever dies thinking, "I wish I had spent more time at my job?"
Thursday, February 3, 2011
6 Mistakes Men Make on Valentine’s Day – From Shine
I just finished reading the 6 Mistakes Men Make on Valentine’s Day from Shine via yahoo. http://shine.yahoo.com/event/valentinesday/6-mistakes-men-make-on-valentines-day-2446085/. Some of the crap in here has to be the worst advice ever…at least when it comes to me.
Mistake 1 – Getting your card from the store. The article says 75 percent of women want a heart-felt love letter over a store bought card. I do not agree with this one bit. I want my man to have balls and not have to pick them back up off the floor after he wrote some sappy love letter that will make me want to vomit. Just get me a funny card.
Mistake 2 – Letting a Bear do Your Bidding. The article states not to buy women a teddy bear, flowers, chocolates, or anything else stamped with Valentine’s Day. So this I agree with a little bit. Tony bought me a stuffed dog a year or two ago. I actually think it is pretty cute because it looks like Jack but I do not need a stuffed toy every year. As for flowers, they are nice to get once a year or so but I am not a rose person. I also do not like the thought of spending over $50 on flowers when in a month he can cut them out of the back yard. Flowers are a nice to have but if I do get them just one rose is enough. As for chocolates…my fat ass does not need them this time of year. I will make some Hungry Girl cupcakes for us.
Mistake 3 – Declaring Valentines’ Day a ploy for Consumers. I do agree with this mistake. No matter how many years a couple has been together they should celebrate Valentine’s Day. How extravagant you go is completely up to the couple. Tony and I do not usually go out to dinner on Valentine’s Day because the prices are outrageous and the food is shit. We prefer a quiet night together and possibly a romantic movie. There will be plenty on TV so no need to even plan ahead with Netflix.
Mistake 4 – Sharing the day with your Blackberry. We do not have blackberries so not an issue for us. This mistake is men texting love message or writing an email. The fix is to make your own card and if you are not a wordy person make a mixed CD…again makes me vomit. Buy the funny card and it is OK to facebook me Happy Valentine’s Day.
Mistake 5 – Expecting Her to Make Plans. 30 percent of women expect men to map out the entire evening. The article suggests men should make plans but I feel differently. If you have a needy bitch like this toss her out. Make plans together is the best route to go. That way you both can set the expectations and no one is left disappointed.
Mistake 6 – Under Dressing. The article says men should not wear jeans. In my opinion if Tony and I were going out to a nice dinner I would expect some nice pants or a nice pair of jeans but being at home jeans are fine. Heck we can eat dinner in our PJ’s if he really wants. And no honey, I am not talking about naughty PJ’s. Flannel will do.
Mistake 1 – Getting your card from the store. The article says 75 percent of women want a heart-felt love letter over a store bought card. I do not agree with this one bit. I want my man to have balls and not have to pick them back up off the floor after he wrote some sappy love letter that will make me want to vomit. Just get me a funny card.
Mistake 2 – Letting a Bear do Your Bidding. The article states not to buy women a teddy bear, flowers, chocolates, or anything else stamped with Valentine’s Day. So this I agree with a little bit. Tony bought me a stuffed dog a year or two ago. I actually think it is pretty cute because it looks like Jack but I do not need a stuffed toy every year. As for flowers, they are nice to get once a year or so but I am not a rose person. I also do not like the thought of spending over $50 on flowers when in a month he can cut them out of the back yard. Flowers are a nice to have but if I do get them just one rose is enough. As for chocolates…my fat ass does not need them this time of year. I will make some Hungry Girl cupcakes for us.
Mistake 3 – Declaring Valentines’ Day a ploy for Consumers. I do agree with this mistake. No matter how many years a couple has been together they should celebrate Valentine’s Day. How extravagant you go is completely up to the couple. Tony and I do not usually go out to dinner on Valentine’s Day because the prices are outrageous and the food is shit. We prefer a quiet night together and possibly a romantic movie. There will be plenty on TV so no need to even plan ahead with Netflix.
Mistake 4 – Sharing the day with your Blackberry. We do not have blackberries so not an issue for us. This mistake is men texting love message or writing an email. The fix is to make your own card and if you are not a wordy person make a mixed CD…again makes me vomit. Buy the funny card and it is OK to facebook me Happy Valentine’s Day.
Mistake 5 – Expecting Her to Make Plans. 30 percent of women expect men to map out the entire evening. The article suggests men should make plans but I feel differently. If you have a needy bitch like this toss her out. Make plans together is the best route to go. That way you both can set the expectations and no one is left disappointed.
Mistake 6 – Under Dressing. The article says men should not wear jeans. In my opinion if Tony and I were going out to a nice dinner I would expect some nice pants or a nice pair of jeans but being at home jeans are fine. Heck we can eat dinner in our PJ’s if he really wants. And no honey, I am not talking about naughty PJ’s. Flannel will do.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
The Race Against Cancer - Supporting Sarah Guilfoy
Everyone out there knows a close friend or family member that has battled cancer. For me my great-grandmother had colon cancer, my grandmother had ovarian cancer, my aunt has kidney cancer, my friend survived Hodgkin’s, even I had precancerous cells discovered and removed.
Yesterday my Aunt Nancy had surgery to freeze the cancer on her kidney. She has a blood clotting disorder so any surgery for her is very risky. She made it through but developed a hematoma which will go away with time. She is now cancer free.
Yesterday my Aunt Nancy had surgery to freeze the cancer on her kidney. She has a blood clotting disorder so any surgery for her is very risky. She made it through but developed a hematoma which will go away with time. She is now cancer free.
My second cousin Sarah recently supported her mother through lung cancer treatment about 2,000 miles apart from each other. (Picture of Sarah and her Mom many years ago) When her mother’s lung cancer was first caught it was one nearly invisible spot on her lung. By the time she was approved for treatment through her insurance company there were four cancer spots and in her glands. It is very sad in our country a person with health insurance still has to fight to get approved for treatment and while fighting the cancer worsens. What is wrong with our country?
In honor of Sarah’s mother she is running in the Big Sur Mud Run in California to raise money for the American Cancer Society and for her mother’s medical bills. Sarah’s goal is $6,500 by March 26th. Ever little bit helps. Donations for Sarah’s run can be made at this website: http://www.gofundme.com/race-against-cancer.
I am sure many people wonder where their money goes when donating to the American Cancer Society. I took it upon myself to call the American Cancer Society.
15% Research
17% Prevention
27% Patient Support
13% Detection and Treatment
22% Fundraising
6% Employee Salary
The big campaigns out there right now for the American Cancer Society are Healthcare Reform, More Funding for Cancer Research, National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Programs, Take Out Colon Cancer, Pain and Palliative Care, and Protecting Kids from Big Tobacco.
For those of you that criticize Healthcare Reform you need to know some important facts about this bill. The bill supports prevention and early detection for cancer. Sarah’s mom’s cancer was found early but insurance fought treatment. Under Healthcare Reform her outcome could have been very different. Rather than fighting the insurance while her cancer worsened it may have been treated right away. The bill eliminates lifetime limits on coverage, prohibits insurance companies from rescinding coverage, provides access to insurance for uninsured Americans with pre-existing conditions, and many more wonderful benefits you can find here: http://www.healthcare.gov/law/timeline/index.html. Why would you want to get rid of this bill? True there are some parts of the bill I do not agree with such as the sales tax when you sell your home but this is NOT a reason to get rid of the entire bill. Congress should pick apart the pieces that do not work and fight to get those removed but not the entire bill. I find it appalling we can spend well over a trillion dollars on the war in Iraq without problems but when it comes to spend money to help our own country and better our healthcare system people are in an uproar.
The other important campaign that is relevant to this post is the More Funding for Cancer Research. The procedure my Aunt Nancy had done to freeze the tumor on her kidney is a relatively new procedure. Without funding for research my aunt may still be living every day waiting for the tumor to take over her body. Given her blood clot disorder all the other treatments made it far too dangerous to operate until this one became available. This treatment option came just in time for my aunt but for many others that lost their lives from kidney cancer it came too late.
More information on the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network can be found here. http://acscan.org/. You can look up federal and state campaigns and if you have time also check into volunteering in your area. Please take a moment to donate to Sarah’s run.
In honor of Sarah’s mother she is running in the Big Sur Mud Run in California to raise money for the American Cancer Society and for her mother’s medical bills. Sarah’s goal is $6,500 by March 26th. Ever little bit helps. Donations for Sarah’s run can be made at this website: http://www.gofundme.com/race-against-cancer.
I am sure many people wonder where their money goes when donating to the American Cancer Society. I took it upon myself to call the American Cancer Society.
15% Research
17% Prevention
27% Patient Support
13% Detection and Treatment
22% Fundraising
6% Employee Salary
The big campaigns out there right now for the American Cancer Society are Healthcare Reform, More Funding for Cancer Research, National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Programs, Take Out Colon Cancer, Pain and Palliative Care, and Protecting Kids from Big Tobacco.
For those of you that criticize Healthcare Reform you need to know some important facts about this bill. The bill supports prevention and early detection for cancer. Sarah’s mom’s cancer was found early but insurance fought treatment. Under Healthcare Reform her outcome could have been very different. Rather than fighting the insurance while her cancer worsened it may have been treated right away. The bill eliminates lifetime limits on coverage, prohibits insurance companies from rescinding coverage, provides access to insurance for uninsured Americans with pre-existing conditions, and many more wonderful benefits you can find here: http://www.healthcare.gov/law/timeline/index.html. Why would you want to get rid of this bill? True there are some parts of the bill I do not agree with such as the sales tax when you sell your home but this is NOT a reason to get rid of the entire bill. Congress should pick apart the pieces that do not work and fight to get those removed but not the entire bill. I find it appalling we can spend well over a trillion dollars on the war in Iraq without problems but when it comes to spend money to help our own country and better our healthcare system people are in an uproar.
The other important campaign that is relevant to this post is the More Funding for Cancer Research. The procedure my Aunt Nancy had done to freeze the tumor on her kidney is a relatively new procedure. Without funding for research my aunt may still be living every day waiting for the tumor to take over her body. Given her blood clot disorder all the other treatments made it far too dangerous to operate until this one became available. This treatment option came just in time for my aunt but for many others that lost their lives from kidney cancer it came too late.
More information on the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network can be found here. http://acscan.org/. You can look up federal and state campaigns and if you have time also check into volunteering in your area. Please take a moment to donate to Sarah’s run.
Half Bath Redecorating
I redecorated my half bath. It used to have a brown mirror and a picture of a palm tree in it. I gave it more of a beach feel. I love it.
Love my new mirror. Only $40 at Home Goods.
Picture $25 at Kohls. Now you know why Tony says it feels like he is pissing in the ocean.
Vase was a wedding gift. The coral and shells are from Curacao. The sand traveled back with me from Curacao in my purse. Could not believe all of that was in there.
New towel and decoration. Paid about $15 for it at Kohls.
New rug also from Kohls, $35.
Love my new mirror. Only $40 at Home Goods.
Picture $25 at Kohls. Now you know why Tony says it feels like he is pissing in the ocean.
Vase was a wedding gift. The coral and shells are from Curacao. The sand traveled back with me from Curacao in my purse. Could not believe all of that was in there.
New towel and decoration. Paid about $15 for it at Kohls.
New rug also from Kohls, $35.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Can't Trust a Woman that Does Not Fart
I love this. P. Diddy says you cannot trust a woman that does not fart in front of you. Tony has no reason not to trust me...on a daily or even hourly basis.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yysOnOtxhQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yysOnOtxhQ
Monday, January 31, 2011
Botox or Bangs?
I really hate my forehead wrinkles and Tony is tired of hearing about them. I was watching The Lost Valentine last night on CBS. Good movie for those of you that did not see it. I love Jennifer Love Hewitt's hair. She can pull of bangs but am worried I will not be able to. Botox is out of the question for me because it is just way too expensive to keep up. I know my wrinkles are not that bad right now to give myself bangs. It is funny when I called my mom a few weeks back and asked how old she was when she started getting forehead wrinkles. Her response was: "why do you think I have bangs?"
I'm Shrinking
I was so skeptical of the new weight watcher plan. I about passed out when I got on the scale Sunday morning. I weighed in at 135.8. Down 4.4 since starting the plan almost two weeks ago. I love that I get to eat all the fruit I want for no points. Tuesday is my weekly weigh in and that is the one that counts. Hopefully I am still around 136. I can already tell my jeans are fitting much better. Back to where I was before my surgery.
I started going to karate again two weeks ago. So far it has been going well. I cannot spar or do line drill for probably another month. I need to take it slow getting back into things. I can fell my other knee is having issues. They are not as bad as my knee I had surgery on but with six months of over compensating for the bad knee the other one's issues came out. Both my knees were damaged in the car accident I was in back in 1998.
I started going to karate again two weeks ago. So far it has been going well. I cannot spar or do line drill for probably another month. I need to take it slow getting back into things. I can fell my other knee is having issues. They are not as bad as my knee I had surgery on but with six months of over compensating for the bad knee the other one's issues came out. Both my knees were damaged in the car accident I was in back in 1998.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Beautiful Sunday!
Today was an absolutely beautiful day. We hit nearly 70 degrees today. Tony and I rode on the Harley for a while, did some yard work, even had lunch on our patio! The dogs loved it today. They spent most of the time outside. My peach tree is already budding. I am really looking forward to spring which for us is right around the corner.
For dinner I made Turkey Breast Stuffed Spinach-Feta, wild rice stuffing, rice, and broccoli. This meal was so filling. I found the Turkey Breast recipe in my Cooking Light magazine. I am so glad they had this recipe online because I really did not want to type the entire thing. I did not have one full turkey breast like it calls for but did have a 4 back of smaller breasts from Shady Brook Farms. I made four smaller turkeys rather than one larger one. I think it was nicer than having a large breast because it came out into perfect portions.
For dinner I made Turkey Breast Stuffed Spinach-Feta, wild rice stuffing, rice, and broccoli. This meal was so filling. I found the Turkey Breast recipe in my Cooking Light magazine. I am so glad they had this recipe online because I really did not want to type the entire thing. I did not have one full turkey breast like it calls for but did have a 4 back of smaller breasts from Shady Brook Farms. I made four smaller turkeys rather than one larger one. I think it was nicer than having a large breast because it came out into perfect portions.
The stuffing is the Tastefully Simple Recipe I made for Christmas Eve. Recipe found here:
http://tattooedmodernwife.blogspot.com/2010/12/christmas-eve-dinner.html
Turkey - 4 points
Stuffing - 5 points
Rice - 6 points (bird's eye steamer)
Broccoli - 0 points
Weight Watchers Baked Ziti
I made Tony and me baked ziti for dinner Saturday night. The recipe is for a full lasagna pan so I cut the recipe in half. It went from 12 servings to 6. Since I made it in a 9x9 pan I just made it 4 servings. Points value went from 7 to 11 for a larger serving. Now I do have to say for as long as I count weight watcher points I will not make this meal again. It was not satisfying at all even with the larger serving size. It was good but just not filling. I can have a nice plate of angel hair pasta for 6 points and be satisfied.
Baked Ziti
Course: main meals
PointsPlus™ Value: 7
Servings: 12
Preparation Time: 10 min
Cooking Time: 40 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Here’s a tasty, healthy version of the Italian classic. For more robust flavor, add crushed fennel seeds. For a meaty version, add lean ground beef to the sauce.*
Ingredients
3 spray(s) cooking spray
1 pound(s) uncooked pasta, rigatoni or penne
3/4 pound(s) part-skim ricotta cheese
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, or more to taste
1/4 cup(s) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
4 cup(s) marinara sauce, store-bought, divided**
1/2 pound(s) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheeses
1/4 cup(s) basil, cut into ribbons, for garnish***
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Coat bottom and sides of a lasagna pan with cooking spray.
Cook pasta according to package directions; rinse with cool water and drain.
While pasta is cooking, in a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, red pepper flakes, 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese and 1/3 cup marinara sauce.
To assemble ziti, spoon 1/2 cup sauce on bottom of prepared pan; top with half of pasta in an even layer. Evenly spread pasta with ricotta mixture; cover with half of remaining sauce. Top with remaining pasta and spoon remaining sauce over top; sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining tablespoon Parmesan. Bake until cheese melts and is browned, about 20 to 30 minutes. Allow ziti to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing into 12 pieces. Yields 1 piece per serving.
Baked Ziti
Course: main meals
PointsPlus™ Value: 7
Servings: 12
Preparation Time: 10 min
Cooking Time: 40 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Here’s a tasty, healthy version of the Italian classic. For more robust flavor, add crushed fennel seeds. For a meaty version, add lean ground beef to the sauce.*
Ingredients
3 spray(s) cooking spray
1 pound(s) uncooked pasta, rigatoni or penne
3/4 pound(s) part-skim ricotta cheese
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, or more to taste
1/4 cup(s) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
4 cup(s) marinara sauce, store-bought, divided**
1/2 pound(s) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheeses
1/4 cup(s) basil, cut into ribbons, for garnish***
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Coat bottom and sides of a lasagna pan with cooking spray.
Cook pasta according to package directions; rinse with cool water and drain.
While pasta is cooking, in a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, red pepper flakes, 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese and 1/3 cup marinara sauce.
To assemble ziti, spoon 1/2 cup sauce on bottom of prepared pan; top with half of pasta in an even layer. Evenly spread pasta with ricotta mixture; cover with half of remaining sauce. Top with remaining pasta and spoon remaining sauce over top; sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining tablespoon Parmesan. Bake until cheese melts and is browned, about 20 to 30 minutes. Allow ziti to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing into 12 pieces. Yields 1 piece per serving.
Notes
*Could affect PointsPlus value.
**If you don’t have a store-bought sauce on hand, you can use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead (could affect PointsPlus value).
*** To watch a video of this technique, click here.
*Could affect PointsPlus value.
**If you don’t have a store-bought sauce on hand, you can use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead (could affect PointsPlus value).
*** To watch a video of this technique, click here.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Mexican Chicken Casserole
I pulled this recipe from All You Magazine. My picture does not do it justice. The magazine picture looks better but mine is not as thick since I went with lower fat ingredients. Really tastes much better than it looks.
Things I changed up in this recipe were to make it lower in fat and more convenient. I used a 12 oz can of chicken instead of cutting one up. I used fat free cream cheese and 2% Mexican cheese. A can of chopped tomatoes instead of a fresh tomato. The tortilla was a low carb tortilla. I took it down to 7 weight watcher points under the points plus program. This serves 4 people and they are pretty large servings.
Mexican Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
Things I changed up in this recipe were to make it lower in fat and more convenient. I used a 12 oz can of chicken instead of cutting one up. I used fat free cream cheese and 2% Mexican cheese. A can of chopped tomatoes instead of a fresh tomato. The tortilla was a low carb tortilla. I took it down to 7 weight watcher points under the points plus program. This serves 4 people and they are pretty large servings.
Mexican Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
12 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite size pieces
1 tsp. taco seasoning
1 red or green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 ½ cup salsa
2 oz cream cheese
1 – 15 oz can of black bean
1 tomato chopped
2 – 6inch whole-wheat tortillas
½ cup shredded Mexican cheese
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Warm large nonstick skillet over medium heat; mist with cooking spray. Add chicken and taco seasoning. Cook stirring for 2 minutes.
2. Add bell peppers and cook for 2 minutes; stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in salsa and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add cream cheese. Cook, stirring constantly until melted and blended; about 2 minutes.
5. Stir in beans and tomatoes.
6. Spoon 1/3 of mixture into an 8 inch square baking dish. Cover with 1 tortilla, then spoon in ½ of remaining chicken mixture and ½ of cheese. Top with remaining tortilla and chicken mixture.
7. Cover and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes. Uncover and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake uncovered until cheese is melted. About five minutes longer.
Per Serving: 377 cal. 12g fat. 77mg Chol. 11g fiber. 34g Protein. 34g Carbs. 1364mg Sod.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
I'm So Tired!
This past week I've been so exhausted. I fall asleep as soon as I hit the bed which is not normal for me and am pretty sleepy through out the day. Really puts a damper on the love life. I think I figured out why I am so tired. This new Weight Watchers diet. As I posted before they are focusing on lowering the carb intake. I live off of carbs. They provide your body energy to get through the day. I am having a horrible time adjusting to not eating the amount I used to. I hope this changes soon.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Tattoos
Well since I changed the URL on my blog to tattooed modern wife you all probably want to see my tattoos.
The first one I got on my 18th birthday. It is hard to see in the pictures but these are all I have for good photos. It is the head of a panther and one of its claws. The panther is holding a rose in its mouth. My mom's not so favorite part - the panther looks like it is ripping out of my skin. Claw marks and all. The panther to me symbolizes mystery, beauty, and strength. When I get my black belt this year I get to pick out an animal to embroider on my belt. I am going to pick the panther.
The second tattoo I got in December of 2009. I designed the tattoo and had an amazing tattoo artist add to it. The snake on the stake is from the paramedic symbol. The wings represent an angel flying to heaven. The tattoo is in memory of my brother Bill.
The first one I got on my 18th birthday. It is hard to see in the pictures but these are all I have for good photos. It is the head of a panther and one of its claws. The panther is holding a rose in its mouth. My mom's not so favorite part - the panther looks like it is ripping out of my skin. Claw marks and all. The panther to me symbolizes mystery, beauty, and strength. When I get my black belt this year I get to pick out an animal to embroider on my belt. I am going to pick the panther.
The second tattoo I got in December of 2009. I designed the tattoo and had an amazing tattoo artist add to it. The snake on the stake is from the paramedic symbol. The wings represent an angel flying to heaven. The tattoo is in memory of my brother Bill.
I would like to do something to symbolize the my marriage but have not decided on anything yet. I am sure many people out there would say don't do it because of how many marriages end in divorce. I do not see divorce as an option in my marriage. If you contently have one foot out the door with that type of thinking aren't you doomed for divorce? It has not always been this way for me. After 10 years you do go through ups and downs but Tony and I are in a wonderful place now and have been for a couple of years. We got married so young and really did a lot of growning together through the years. What we have today really is forever.
Movie Week
This past week Tony and I saw four movies. A lot for us in one week. We watched Case 39, Law Abiding Citizen, Food Inc., and The Other Guys.
Case 39 is with Renee Zellweger and Bradley Cooper. Renee plays a social worker that is trying to help a troubled child. The first 30 minutes of this movie were really good and then it turned into absolute shit. The child is all the sudden a demon and all this weird crap starts happening. Completely lost interest in it and the end was way too predictable. Don't waste your time renting this.
Law Abiding Citizen with Jamie Fox and Gerard Butler was OK. It was suspenseful and provided some intense moments. Good watch if nothing else is on.
Food Inc. is a documentary about the food industry and where our meat comes from. Tony’s cousin recommended the movie to us. She now only eats fish. I still am going to eat meat after watching the movie but am definitely going to switch to natural and organic meat. The chicken I buy is already natural with no steroids and antibiotics. I am definitely switching to free range beef with no added steroids or antibiotics. Tony and I do not eat a lot of beef so the extra cost in our budget will not be major. We do like Hormel pork loins and those do not come without additives. Something we are going to have to look at changing once we finish off what is in the freezer. It was very disturbing to see the lives of the chickens, cows, and pigs before they are slaughtered. Even if they are part of our food chain no animal should live like that under those conditions. Rent it if you want to see what I am talking about.
We watched The Other Guys last night and it stars Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell. Tony and I both really like these actors but the two of them together created a stupid movie. Still had funny parts but stupid. If you like these actors you will still laugh and enjoy the movie. If you do not like them don't waste your time.
Case 39 is with Renee Zellweger and Bradley Cooper. Renee plays a social worker that is trying to help a troubled child. The first 30 minutes of this movie were really good and then it turned into absolute shit. The child is all the sudden a demon and all this weird crap starts happening. Completely lost interest in it and the end was way too predictable. Don't waste your time renting this.
Law Abiding Citizen with Jamie Fox and Gerard Butler was OK. It was suspenseful and provided some intense moments. Good watch if nothing else is on.
Food Inc. is a documentary about the food industry and where our meat comes from. Tony’s cousin recommended the movie to us. She now only eats fish. I still am going to eat meat after watching the movie but am definitely going to switch to natural and organic meat. The chicken I buy is already natural with no steroids and antibiotics. I am definitely switching to free range beef with no added steroids or antibiotics. Tony and I do not eat a lot of beef so the extra cost in our budget will not be major. We do like Hormel pork loins and those do not come without additives. Something we are going to have to look at changing once we finish off what is in the freezer. It was very disturbing to see the lives of the chickens, cows, and pigs before they are slaughtered. Even if they are part of our food chain no animal should live like that under those conditions. Rent it if you want to see what I am talking about.
We watched The Other Guys last night and it stars Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell. Tony and I both really like these actors but the two of them together created a stupid movie. Still had funny parts but stupid. If you like these actors you will still laugh and enjoy the movie. If you do not like them don't waste your time.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
My Fat Ass....Is Getting Smaller
Week one is over with on the new Weight Watcher plan and I am down to 137.8 so I lost 2.4 pounds in the first week. The plan is working but I wonder how long until I reach a plateau. I am glad I am just about to my happy weight which is 135-136. However, since Tony and I will be in Aruba in August I want to have a smoking body for the beach. I am targeting 125; the lowest I ever targeted in my weight loss. I do not think I've weighed that since about 2005. In 2007 when I was on Weight Watchers I got down to 128 but that only lasted about two weeks. I was 131 in Curacao and would be satisfied with that weight again in Aruba. At that weight I still have nice curves but am a bit worried any less and I may start looking like a boy...minus the implants.
Arizona Pictures
Tony's cousin Nichol, Katherine's boyfriend, Katherine, and Tony
Our friends we met in Curacao - Lisa and Ross
Foutain in Old Scottsdale
Of course Tony had to stop at the local Harley Davidson
Judging by that smile our stop to HD made his day
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Oogy - Book Review
I finished the book Oogy last week. It is a book about a pit bull that was found when police invaded a fighting operation. He was only a few months old when they found him and half of his face was torn off. The little boy survived and was adopted by a wonderful family. It really is a heartwarming book about his survival and the amazing love and compassion one family gave him. Yes, he only has one year in the picture. :(
GREAT NEWS!!!
I interviewed with a bank last Wednesday and I was just offered the job! It is not much more money than what I make right now but it is a stable company with wonderful retirement benefits and yearly bonuses that can be up to 9% of my salary. More vacation too. I am not looking forward to the drive downtown and I have to work later hours but at least I am not losing my skills and moving into a company where I can grow. I am going to be working in a skyscraper downtown on the 14th floor. Once my notice is put in at work I am going to unlock my blog and change the URL address. Look for a new link soon.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Trip to Arizona and My Fat Ass
Tony and I were on vacation in Arizona Thursday through Monday. We were visiting his cousin Nichol and Katharine. We had such a great time with them. It really makes me wish we lived near them. We were even able to meet up with some friends we met in Curacao. The weather was amazing. It was in the 70’s most of the time we were there. I am not sure if I could live in a place that is so brown. There is very little grass. They even paint the buildings brown! That place is dying for some color. I only took a few photos. There really was nothing pretty to take a picture of. I will get them posted soon.
I dyed my hair before we went on vacation. Just some low lights. The gray is gone. Tony could not even tell I colored my hair but I did tell the stylist I did not want it to look like I dye my hair. He did buy me a new Michael Kors purse that I just love.
After we returned home from our vacation I was dreading getting on the scale. We ate so much food. My weight spiked to 140.2. I nearly put on all the weight I lost last year. Gained 5 pounds in the last month alone which is the most I ever gained in one month. I signed back up for weight watchers yesterday. This will be my first time on their new points systems. So far….I f*ck*ng hate it. They basically went from a low fat low cal diet to low carb. I hate low carb diets. Just about everything that was my go to food before is out of my points range. Right now it is just before lunch and I have been starving for an hour. I am doing the online program for three months. Since they revamped the points system I had to buy all new books and a calculator. Have I mentioned this diet blows?
I dyed my hair before we went on vacation. Just some low lights. The gray is gone. Tony could not even tell I colored my hair but I did tell the stylist I did not want it to look like I dye my hair. He did buy me a new Michael Kors purse that I just love.
After we returned home from our vacation I was dreading getting on the scale. We ate so much food. My weight spiked to 140.2. I nearly put on all the weight I lost last year. Gained 5 pounds in the last month alone which is the most I ever gained in one month. I signed back up for weight watchers yesterday. This will be my first time on their new points systems. So far….I f*ck*ng hate it. They basically went from a low fat low cal diet to low carb. I hate low carb diets. Just about everything that was my go to food before is out of my points range. Right now it is just before lunch and I have been starving for an hour. I am doing the online program for three months. Since they revamped the points system I had to buy all new books and a calculator. Have I mentioned this diet blows?
Monday, January 10, 2011
Enough Gray Already!
This past year I’ve been having a fight with a few white hairs that showed up. I pull them out and move on with my day. Last week I pulled out a few and then this morning I found more. I finally realized this is more than the two stubborn hairs that would come through. If I keep pulling them out I am going to give myself a bald spot. I can tell they are white hair versus a different shade of blonde because they have a slight curl to them and are coarse compared to my other hair. Maybe the reason I notice them this young compared to other people is because I never dye my hair. Well that is all about to change. When I get back from Arizona I am going to find a stylist. For me this will be very hard to do. I am not one that likes spending money on being pampered and yes I consider a haircut being pampered. Tony cuts my hair. I love how my hair gets different highlights from the sun in the summer. I am going to have to say good bye to those days.
I found a picture of Jennifer Aniston’s hair color when it was between blonde and brown. I think I might go with something like that. The last thing I want is to go more blonde because I might end up looking like a playboy bunny. I know I do need a professional haircut. While Tony does a good job on my hair I can tell I need an inch or two cut off to make it look healthy again.
I found a picture of Jennifer Aniston’s hair color when it was between blonde and brown. I think I might go with something like that. The last thing I want is to go more blonde because I might end up looking like a playboy bunny. I know I do need a professional haircut. While Tony does a good job on my hair I can tell I need an inch or two cut off to make it look healthy again.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
My Wonderful Husband
Tony was awesome this weekend. I know I complained a bit in the past when there was lack of help but after a conversation we had last week I think things really are going to change. Not like he wasn't great before, more so than most husbands, but in this marriage I like to have a partnership and now what each other do is appreciated.
He worked on Saturday for half a day. The extra money will help us with our up coming vacation. When he was working I was doing my grocery shopping. When he got home I did not expect anything from him as far as house work since he did put in extra hours at work. However, he got right to it with cleaning the floors and folding laundry.
Then after we cleaned the house he helped out my friend by picking up a TV she bought and setting it up in her house. No complaints at all. He was happy to do it and play with her dogs. Now my friend and I are something else. We met at the job I have right now. There is about a 30 year age difference between us but we could not be more alike. Tony even sees it. It is amazing how the two of us has an instant connection like we were sisters in a past life.
Our trip to Arizona is coming up so soon. I can't wait for the mini vacation and to see Tony's cousins.
He worked on Saturday for half a day. The extra money will help us with our up coming vacation. When he was working I was doing my grocery shopping. When he got home I did not expect anything from him as far as house work since he did put in extra hours at work. However, he got right to it with cleaning the floors and folding laundry.
Then after we cleaned the house he helped out my friend by picking up a TV she bought and setting it up in her house. No complaints at all. He was happy to do it and play with her dogs. Now my friend and I are something else. We met at the job I have right now. There is about a 30 year age difference between us but we could not be more alike. Tony even sees it. It is amazing how the two of us has an instant connection like we were sisters in a past life.
Our trip to Arizona is coming up so soon. I can't wait for the mini vacation and to see Tony's cousins.
Job Interviews
So now that my blog is locked down I can talk about my job interviews.
There was a company I was supposed to interview this week with but they were not paying enough for the amount of travel that is involved. As much as I really would like a different job they only way I am leaving is if I can see myself in the job and company for the long haul. I want to find that perfect job and settle down there.
I do have another interview coming up at a bank. I am a perfect fit for the job and can see myself there. My friend is also trying to get me into her company. They have not decided to fill the position yet but if they do I think it is an even better fit for me than the bank. Either way, two great potentials.
There was a company I was supposed to interview this week with but they were not paying enough for the amount of travel that is involved. As much as I really would like a different job they only way I am leaving is if I can see myself in the job and company for the long haul. I want to find that perfect job and settle down there.
I do have another interview coming up at a bank. I am a perfect fit for the job and can see myself there. My friend is also trying to get me into her company. They have not decided to fill the position yet but if they do I think it is an even better fit for me than the bank. Either way, two great potentials.
Stuffed Chicken
I tried something different and stuffed chicken breasts with goat cheese, arugula, and tomato. I rolled it Parmesan cheeses, salt, and pepper. Baked at 400 degrees for 30 minutes.
I think I over did it on the goat cheese. If you like this idea you can do this with any type of cheese. Mozzarella would be pretty good in this too topped with pasta sauce.
I flattened out the chicken by placing it between parchment paper and pounded it out. Then put the stuffing in the middle and secured it with toothpicks. Lastly I rolled it in the Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Cuddle Time
Is there anything cuter than dogs and cats cuddling?
Jack and Oscar changed beds
Jack watching AFV with me. He thinks he is a lap dog.
Jack and Milo getting warm by the fire
Oscar staying warm by the pillows
Sydney cuddled up with her blanket
Jack and Oscar changed beds
Jack watching AFV with me. He thinks he is a lap dog.
Jack and Milo getting warm by the fire
Oscar staying warm by the pillows
Sydney cuddled up with her blanket
Saturday, January 8, 2011
My FAVORITE Diet Food is Back!!!!
Nearly two years ago my favorite diet food was discontinued. I love MorningStar Farms Veggie Corn Dogs. They have an amazing taste for not being meat and on the old Weight Watcher point system they were two points each. I was so mad when I found out they were discontinued that I wrote a letter to MorningStar begging them to bring these back. I only found one substitute from Trader Joes but they were not nearly as good and also higher points.
Today I was at Kroger and there they were. My heart skipped a beat. I grabbed three boxes and quickly threw them in my cart. I even called Tony to tell him what I found. Never have I been so excited about a food.
I made them for dinner tonight with french fries baked them in the oven. Tony does like the MorningStar brand. He always gave me crap for eating fake meat until he tried it. As I was putting the corn dogs on the plate I said out loud, "oooohhhh, how I've missed you." Tony laughed at me and for a brief moment thought his wife went crazy. They were just as good as I remembered and ate two of them in probably under two minutes. Now I have a stomach ache.
Just when I was about ready to type this blog post up I went to MorningStar's website to see if there was a press release or some other information about the return of the beloved corn dog. They do not even list the corn dog as a product! WTF? I ran to the box to check the expiration date. I was praying this was not something Kroger found in their back room. Date was OK. So again, I wrote MorningStar wonder what is up. Tomorrow I am going back to Kroger to buy out their stock.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Message from Heaven
I have a Facebook group called In Loving Memory of William Robert Steigerwaldt. Most people in the group are family and close friends. I had to lock the group down since there are trolls on the internet that spam the wall. Now you can only access by request for new people. Yesterday I received a request from someone I did not know to join the group. I accidentally clicked ignore request instead of confirm. I emailed the lady and told her what I did and asked her to send a new request. Out of curiosity I asked how she knew my brother. Turns out they met on a dating site years ago and used to email back and forth. She searched for him on facebook and came across the group. I am not sure if she knew Bill died. My guess would be not if she searched for him. It is amazing after how many years have gone by she was searching for him.
It may not be a message from Heaven but I can at least dream.
It may not be a message from Heaven but I can at least dream.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
There Goes My Weight Again!
I was so thrilled last week when my holiday weight started coming off. I was feeling confident. Then this morning weight myself and I went from 137 to 138.2. Okay, okay...it may not seem like a big deal to you all to put on a bit of weight but this is hard for me. My new treadmill does not arrive until January 24 and as mentioned earlier walking outside in my development is out of the picture. Even if I could with my knee I need to be in a place I can get back home or to my car easily if I have problems. Once my knee is healed and I am fully active again I am giving myself a month to drop 5 pounds. If I cannot I think it will be back on weight watchers for me. I want to look great for our trip to Aruba. Not sure when my knee will be fully healed. I hope by March.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Broken Treadmill
Yesterday our treadmill broke. We had it for five years and really got the most out of it since we only paid about $500 for it. Unfortunately for Tony he was on it when it happened. I was downstairs in the kitchen when I heard a loud thud, the grinding of belt, and the motor screeching. I ran upstairs to see if Tony was OK. All I could picture in my mind is the treadmill sent him flying and half of his body went through the wall. I got up there and luckily he was fine. I do not know how it happened but one side practically fell off and the belt went the other direction.
On the plus side treadmills are on sale this time of year and I bought one through HSN. Really not an expense we needed right now with my medical bills from my surgery but I also need the treadmill for my recovery. Tony and I do not live in a neighborhood that is made for walking. There are less than 40 homes in my neighborhood and not paths or crosswalks to other areas for walking. The road outside our house is pretty busy too.
On the plus side treadmills are on sale this time of year and I bought one through HSN. Really not an expense we needed right now with my medical bills from my surgery but I also need the treadmill for my recovery. Tony and I do not live in a neighborhood that is made for walking. There are less than 40 homes in my neighborhood and not paths or crosswalks to other areas for walking. The road outside our house is pretty busy too.
Monday, January 3, 2011
New Year's
Tony and I ended up at the Duck and Dumpling for our New Year’s Eve dinner. The restaurant has a very neat city feel to it. It is located in an old building downtown. Tony enjoyed his meal but mine was not what I expected. It was OK but nothing special. I finally was able to wear my Michael Kors black and silver stiletto heels I bought earlier this year. I was not able to wear them all summer because the fractures in my toes were still healing. I had on a black Michael Kors dress too that I scored from Ross for only $40. The outfit looked amazing!
When it comes to hot places to go for drinks and dancing Tony and I are clueless. We had no idea where to go after dinner. We stopped at a restaurant by our house for a drink and then were home by 9 PM. Wow, aren’t we a wild bunch. I made some appetizers for us to snack on since our dinner was small. I got out of my dress and into flannel PJs. Tony was just thrilled about that but he put on flannel pants too. Staying up to watch the ball drop was pretty hard. We are not used to staying up late and probably should have grabbed a coffee at Starbucks instead of another drink at the Leesville Tap Room. We laid in bed to watch the ball drop. A big mistake since we both fell asleep for a bit before the ball dropped. We both woke up when the ball was going down. Gave each other a kiss at midnight and then turned off the TV and fell asleep.
I love when Kathy Griffin and Anderson Cooper work together. No one makes Anderson Cooper more nervous and uncomfortable as Kathy Griffin. They had their own New Year’s Eve show on CNN. Here is a small clip from it.
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2011/01/01/natpkg.ac.cooper.griffin.nye.cnn?iref=allsearch
When it comes to hot places to go for drinks and dancing Tony and I are clueless. We had no idea where to go after dinner. We stopped at a restaurant by our house for a drink and then were home by 9 PM. Wow, aren’t we a wild bunch. I made some appetizers for us to snack on since our dinner was small. I got out of my dress and into flannel PJs. Tony was just thrilled about that but he put on flannel pants too. Staying up to watch the ball drop was pretty hard. We are not used to staying up late and probably should have grabbed a coffee at Starbucks instead of another drink at the Leesville Tap Room. We laid in bed to watch the ball drop. A big mistake since we both fell asleep for a bit before the ball dropped. We both woke up when the ball was going down. Gave each other a kiss at midnight and then turned off the TV and fell asleep.
I love when Kathy Griffin and Anderson Cooper work together. No one makes Anderson Cooper more nervous and uncomfortable as Kathy Griffin. They had their own New Year’s Eve show on CNN. Here is a small clip from it.
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2011/01/01/natpkg.ac.cooper.griffin.nye.cnn?iref=allsearch
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