Sunday, October 19, 2008
A New Blog, Yo
Hello kids! I have reconnected with 3 of my high school friends and we have created a blog (based mostly on politics for now but I also see religion coming into play in the future). The address is elpisian.wordpress.com As of right now I have not posted yet since we just got up and running today. Its a very cool idea as we all went to the same Christian School, where we were all traumatized so badly that all of us questioned our beliefs to such a degree that at least one of us now categorizes herself as agnostic/atheist. We all have common political views (for the most part) which are all left leaning. We are finally finding our own beliefs and own voices after being raised in the "religious right" by "values voters" whom we find ourselves arguing with on a common basis (when they aren't busy hearing "the truth" from FOX News- Hi Mom and Dad) The reason I now hold the political view I do is because I was forced to figure out (at the age of 17) exactly what I believed, what I didn't and why (so I guess I am a little bit thankful for having to go to that school, maybe). And also because I believe and strive to follow different parts of the Bible than the right winged conservative christian may. I believe that Jesus meant it when he said give up all you have and come follow me. I believe that we are to love our enemies and, I could be wrong, but I think that going to war and killing your enemies doesn't really go along with the whole "loving them" thing. I believe that any sin we commit is just as wrong as the other girl's. So being homosexual is no different than cheating on your taxes, or looking lustfully at another man's wife. I believe that life is precious both before and after birth. I believe that, yeah, taxes suck. But isn't it nice to be able to call the police when you have been robbed, or the fire dept. if your house is burning down, or having sidewalks and streets to walk on instead of having to hike through rough terrain to get anywhere, or that however crappy they are (and in Milwaukee they are crappy), that every child has the opportunity to go to school? I believe that yeah, some people take advantage of welfare but for the single mom who works to pay her rent and bills, she still needs to feed her family and 1. being single 2. being a woman and 3. raising children with irresponsible fathers makes everything that much harder. Do you want to be the one to tell her, "Sorry lady, but since some other scumbags have been scamming me out of some of my taxes so you either have to shut off the heat or leave your kids at home alone (because, by the way, we are not paying for your child care either) in order to continue to provide your children with the food they need?" I, for one, do not. The Bible tells us that (Im paraphrasing) whatever you do for the least of you (poor, sick, etc) you are doing for me. So yes it sucks to pay taxes for things like new baseball stadiums and ridiculous pension plans for city officials, taxes are necessary and as Jesus tells us "Give unto Ceaser (the gov't) what belongs to Ceaser" . So anyways, check out our new blog. I am super excited about it and will probably be up all night writing something. And for those who don't appreciate my political rantings (don't worry-nothin but love!) then fret not, because you don't have to read them anymore. Anything having to do with politics will now appear only on the wordpress blog I contribute to.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
More Miscellaneous Ramblings
Ok, yes I know that it has been forever since I posted anything and I am sorry to disappoint you but I have nothing big and exciting to report. Lately, I have been trying to keep myself busy especially because its getting cold and winter is fricken coming. Usually in winter I just hunker down in my house, stay in my pjs 24/7, snuggle with the dogs, drink coffee or hot cider, and watch tv or movies. I usually gain about 10 lbs every winter. I hate driving in the snow. I hate walking on ice (especially in heels), I hate that when I let the dogs back inside their paws are wet and muddy (or the fact that one member of our family who shall remain nameless is too much of a diva to walk on the cold ground or the snow so just pees on the floor...and no it is not John). So I pretty much do nothing all winter, which in my opinion is really lovely.
But, I digress. Back to being busy. I am working on a reasonable family budget that I can actually stick to. Usually John tries to make the budget and all of our money after bills go into savings and I get like 10 bucks to do what I want to do for the week. Which is ridiculous because I would have to save up for weeks to do anything- shop, get a haircut, go tanning, go out on the weekends, go out to dinner. I can hardly buy a chai latte with that! So I think mine is more reasonable. I am reading a book that has some good budget strategies and money saving tips. It is by this couple who has 5 kids and only spent 350$ a month on groceries. And they paid off their house in 9 years. Crazy! But they only shopped for groceries once a month, so now I am up to shopping for 2 weeks at a time, but we have still had 1 or 2 of those "quick trips for one thing" to the grocery store that end up costing $15. And looking over our debit card statement, we've been going to the grocery like 5-6 times a week every week. So, pretty much, Pick N Save is raping us of our savings account hard core. So anyways, about being busy, trying to get that implemented is time consuming. And I also have a home cooked dinner ready everynight. I take like 2 nights a week and make a few dinners and freeze them, so then we just eat leftovers of it. And since there is just two of us, it lasts about 3 nights! So, since I am not a huge fan of cooking sometimes, that feels like it sucks up my time.
Ohh! And, I also got a job. I am probably going to be working only 1 or 2 nights a week, but on weekends, I guess you make at least $100 night for like 5 hours. So not too shabby. Im waitressing at O'Donoghue's, which is an irish bar in Elm Grove. Well, its technically a pub cuz there's food and stuff. But on weekend nights, its mostly booze.
And I joined "Curves" last week. I really like it. If you don't know what it is, its a fitness place for women. You go in and all of the machines are in a circle, and it goes machine, mat, machine, mat...all the way around. So you jump in wherever you want in the circle and there is music playing and every 30 secs. it tells you to switch stations. So you move the the station next to you. On the mats, you just do something that keeps your heart rate up (jogging in place, jumping jacks, etc) Oh, and if you don't go in for a week or something, they start calling and stalking you to come in which for me is great!
Well I think I am going to go to bed. I have dialysis at 12 but I think I better go to Curves in the am before I find one of the coaches peering through my windows!
But, I digress. Back to being busy. I am working on a reasonable family budget that I can actually stick to. Usually John tries to make the budget and all of our money after bills go into savings and I get like 10 bucks to do what I want to do for the week. Which is ridiculous because I would have to save up for weeks to do anything- shop, get a haircut, go tanning, go out on the weekends, go out to dinner. I can hardly buy a chai latte with that! So I think mine is more reasonable. I am reading a book that has some good budget strategies and money saving tips. It is by this couple who has 5 kids and only spent 350$ a month on groceries. And they paid off their house in 9 years. Crazy! But they only shopped for groceries once a month, so now I am up to shopping for 2 weeks at a time, but we have still had 1 or 2 of those "quick trips for one thing" to the grocery store that end up costing $15. And looking over our debit card statement, we've been going to the grocery like 5-6 times a week every week. So, pretty much, Pick N Save is raping us of our savings account hard core. So anyways, about being busy, trying to get that implemented is time consuming. And I also have a home cooked dinner ready everynight. I take like 2 nights a week and make a few dinners and freeze them, so then we just eat leftovers of it. And since there is just two of us, it lasts about 3 nights! So, since I am not a huge fan of cooking sometimes, that feels like it sucks up my time.
Ohh! And, I also got a job. I am probably going to be working only 1 or 2 nights a week, but on weekends, I guess you make at least $100 night for like 5 hours. So not too shabby. Im waitressing at O'Donoghue's, which is an irish bar in Elm Grove. Well, its technically a pub cuz there's food and stuff. But on weekend nights, its mostly booze.
And I joined "Curves" last week. I really like it. If you don't know what it is, its a fitness place for women. You go in and all of the machines are in a circle, and it goes machine, mat, machine, mat...all the way around. So you jump in wherever you want in the circle and there is music playing and every 30 secs. it tells you to switch stations. So you move the the station next to you. On the mats, you just do something that keeps your heart rate up (jogging in place, jumping jacks, etc) Oh, and if you don't go in for a week or something, they start calling and stalking you to come in which for me is great!
Well I think I am going to go to bed. I have dialysis at 12 but I think I better go to Curves in the am before I find one of the coaches peering through my windows!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Warning!!! If you are my mother, stop reading now!!!
Ok, so allegedly, my parents do not read my blog, but I think they are lying and actually do read it to snoop on what I am up to. They found out about my scooter and I didn't tell them, so unless my brother is the snitch, there is no other explanation. So, Mom, if you are reading this, first, I am proud that you figured out how to do things online besides email, but for your own good, quickly go back to hgtv.com and do not read any further...
Alright, now that that's taken care of, I have been thinking about getting a tattoo. I have been contemplating it for a few months now but I had a little bit of trouble deciding what to get. I am not asking for ideas, because I did figure out a few options, but I am not disclosing them until I actually get inked. One of them is about the size of a half dollar and would be on the back of my neck. I like that idea because if I didn't want it to show, I would just wear my hair down. The other idea that I had is having a quotation done, but I am not sure where that would go. I think it would look good on my lower back, but I don't want it to end up looking like I wanted a trendy tattoo so just went with a tramp stamp. I may go with it on my shoulder blade. We will see. So, if anyone has any recommendations for a good tattoo shop, I could use the tip! I spent a while looking at different tattoos at checkoutmyink.com and while I didn't find an exact one that I want, I got some good inspiration. And yes, I know it will hurt, but I get two giant needles poked in my arm 3 times a week, so I might as well get needles shoved in me for a reason that I want, right? That was the philosophy behind getting my nose pierced....twice. The first time, I had to take it out for an unexpected ct scan and then I got it redone and it fell out while I was sleeping. I was pretty mad about that, since it isn't like the worst pain ever, but its not exactly like getting licked by kittens. Anyways, back to the tattoo thing, Ive been watching LA Ink whenever I can catch it and the people getting theirs done on tv don't look like it hurts too bad. And I have heard that it hurts alot on your foot or hand or right on a bone. Listen to me, can anyone else tell that I am rambling on trying to convince myself that it won't hurt? Haha. Well, I've had my share of pain so I don't mind it when the pain is for a reason that I choose instead of some sadist doctor. Thats a good enough reason to get ink pumped into my body forever, right?!?
Alright, now that that's taken care of, I have been thinking about getting a tattoo. I have been contemplating it for a few months now but I had a little bit of trouble deciding what to get. I am not asking for ideas, because I did figure out a few options, but I am not disclosing them until I actually get inked. One of them is about the size of a half dollar and would be on the back of my neck. I like that idea because if I didn't want it to show, I would just wear my hair down. The other idea that I had is having a quotation done, but I am not sure where that would go. I think it would look good on my lower back, but I don't want it to end up looking like I wanted a trendy tattoo so just went with a tramp stamp. I may go with it on my shoulder blade. We will see. So, if anyone has any recommendations for a good tattoo shop, I could use the tip! I spent a while looking at different tattoos at checkoutmyink.com and while I didn't find an exact one that I want, I got some good inspiration. And yes, I know it will hurt, but I get two giant needles poked in my arm 3 times a week, so I might as well get needles shoved in me for a reason that I want, right? That was the philosophy behind getting my nose pierced....twice. The first time, I had to take it out for an unexpected ct scan and then I got it redone and it fell out while I was sleeping. I was pretty mad about that, since it isn't like the worst pain ever, but its not exactly like getting licked by kittens. Anyways, back to the tattoo thing, Ive been watching LA Ink whenever I can catch it and the people getting theirs done on tv don't look like it hurts too bad. And I have heard that it hurts alot on your foot or hand or right on a bone. Listen to me, can anyone else tell that I am rambling on trying to convince myself that it won't hurt? Haha. Well, I've had my share of pain so I don't mind it when the pain is for a reason that I choose instead of some sadist doctor. Thats a good enough reason to get ink pumped into my body forever, right?!?
Saturday, September 06, 2008
PICTURES AS PROMISED!!!
This is a picture of baby Nora from my trip to North Carolina. My little Goddaughter. awwww
Me and baby Nora.....she is so precious. In these pictures she was about 3 weeks old.
This is Nora and the Baby Mamma, melissa!
This is Melissa's dog, Charlie, who I also miss! He just needs a monocle and a top hat, because he is a total old gentleman!
Well, this is a long one...
Hi Everyone...
I don't have anything super exciting to say today, I am just writing because I am super bored. I have had kind of a rough week as my allergies have started up with a vengeance. It got really bad last weekend on Monday night. It was really hot out, but at about 8:30 pm, John and I decided to go up to Hart Park and play a little bit of tennis (I have not played tennis in years, and by years I mean probably 10 years). After about 10 minutes, I was soaked with sweat from the humidity and had a headache, runny nose, sore throat, and was sneezing up a storm. We still stayed for another half hour or so, but I was miserable. Luckily, I had a scheduled doctor appointment the next day so I got some new medication, because I was all doped up on Benadryl and not feeling any better.
I have been feeling better, although it is only because my house is totally closed with the air on and I am only outside when necessary, which is not fun. But I am hoping that with my medicine I should be able to be outside a little more this weekend. We would like to go to Tosa Fest tonight, which is outside, so we will see.
Speaking of being at the doctor on Tuesday, I walked into the hospital and got a call on my cell phone from one of the Transplant Nurses, asking me to come in to get my blood drawn for a crossmatch as they had a potential kidney for me. Well, I was pretty much blown away because I was not aware that I was even anywhere close to the top of the list for receiving a cadaverous kidney. But, of course I took this information with a grain of salt since I have been through 2 false alarms for my liver transplant, and 3 possible donors for the kidney. I went upstairs and met the nurse who started looking at me with this weird happy/confused face going "THIS IS SO EXCITING, ISN'T IT?!!?!?! WHY AREN'T YOU EXCITED? THIS IS SO GREAT, ISN'T IT GREAT! AREN'T YOU EXCITED?" and other miscellaneous crazy person exclamations. Well, my reply went something like (*token mean/annoyed look*) "umm, not really since I have been through this like SIX times before" (*disgusted scoff) So, needless to say, that kidney didn't work out. Oh well, I am kind of getting used to it. Although, it would be nice to not have to go to dialysis anymore.
Hmmm, I know I had other things to add today....oh a few words about the election. It has been a few days now since the Republican VP candidate has been announced. And at first, I had mostly pleasant thoughts about a strong, outspoken, woman being nominated. But after listening to Sarah Palin speak and learning more about her, she comes off as more of a mean-spirited bitch than anything else. (pardon my language, but if there was ever a time for that word, it is now) Now I admit that I did not watch her whole speech. I was at my parents house, who are both ridiculously staunch Republicans and I was getting a little bit annoyed by both their hooting and cheering along with the speech itself. But I digress. My first thought was how interesting it was that the day before Palin spoke at the RNC, Cindy McCain got on television and was whining and crying about how Obama was being mean to her husband. And then Palin gets on television and spent more of her time making quick one-liners about her opponents than she did discussing policy. I also noticed that concerning the issues with her family, (her young Downs Syndrome son and her daughter's pregnancy and upcoming marriage (!) ) republicans were surprisingly tolerant. It brought back thoughts of the revelation that Dick Cheney had a lesbian daughter. Had the tables been turned and these issues were tied to a Liberal candidate, we all know that their values and dedication would be brought into question by many, especially the religious right. So while I suppose I am relieved to see a bit of compassion (and I do agree that these issues do not have a place in a candidates qualifications), I can't help but believe that the right is not being caring, as much as they are just on the defensive.
So enough about the rnc, what about the democratic convention? I was only able to watch the speeches of Michelle and Barack Obama, but hopefully, I will be able to catch a youtube version of the others soon. I thought that Michelle proved intelligent, classy, and confident. She is someone whom I could trust and respect, and feel comfortable that she may be whispering into the ear of our nation's leader. Barack's speech in Denver was nothing short of inspiring and powerful. I, along with others I have spoken to, was moved to tears listening to his passion for our country, the world's people, and for change. I have only been able to vote for 6 years (and have been following politics for about 8) and it was so refreshing to hear someone speak about our country and its people with hope and promise and passion. It feels so different than the last election where I felt as though I had to pick the lesser of two evils, and that I was voting against someone instead of for someone. I am proud to be part of the election promise and excited for what 4 (or maybe 8) years of an Obama administration could bring to not only our country, but to the world.
Ok, moving on from politics, well, I don't really have a ton to say, but I do have some pictures that I will post for you all to see, so be excited!!!
TaTa
I don't have anything super exciting to say today, I am just writing because I am super bored. I have had kind of a rough week as my allergies have started up with a vengeance. It got really bad last weekend on Monday night. It was really hot out, but at about 8:30 pm, John and I decided to go up to Hart Park and play a little bit of tennis (I have not played tennis in years, and by years I mean probably 10 years). After about 10 minutes, I was soaked with sweat from the humidity and had a headache, runny nose, sore throat, and was sneezing up a storm. We still stayed for another half hour or so, but I was miserable. Luckily, I had a scheduled doctor appointment the next day so I got some new medication, because I was all doped up on Benadryl and not feeling any better.
I have been feeling better, although it is only because my house is totally closed with the air on and I am only outside when necessary, which is not fun. But I am hoping that with my medicine I should be able to be outside a little more this weekend. We would like to go to Tosa Fest tonight, which is outside, so we will see.
Speaking of being at the doctor on Tuesday, I walked into the hospital and got a call on my cell phone from one of the Transplant Nurses, asking me to come in to get my blood drawn for a crossmatch as they had a potential kidney for me. Well, I was pretty much blown away because I was not aware that I was even anywhere close to the top of the list for receiving a cadaverous kidney. But, of course I took this information with a grain of salt since I have been through 2 false alarms for my liver transplant, and 3 possible donors for the kidney. I went upstairs and met the nurse who started looking at me with this weird happy/confused face going "THIS IS SO EXCITING, ISN'T IT?!!?!?! WHY AREN'T YOU EXCITED? THIS IS SO GREAT, ISN'T IT GREAT! AREN'T YOU EXCITED?" and other miscellaneous crazy person exclamations. Well, my reply went something like (*token mean/annoyed look*) "umm, not really since I have been through this like SIX times before" (*disgusted scoff) So, needless to say, that kidney didn't work out. Oh well, I am kind of getting used to it. Although, it would be nice to not have to go to dialysis anymore.
Hmmm, I know I had other things to add today....oh a few words about the election. It has been a few days now since the Republican VP candidate has been announced. And at first, I had mostly pleasant thoughts about a strong, outspoken, woman being nominated. But after listening to Sarah Palin speak and learning more about her, she comes off as more of a mean-spirited bitch than anything else. (pardon my language, but if there was ever a time for that word, it is now) Now I admit that I did not watch her whole speech. I was at my parents house, who are both ridiculously staunch Republicans and I was getting a little bit annoyed by both their hooting and cheering along with the speech itself. But I digress. My first thought was how interesting it was that the day before Palin spoke at the RNC, Cindy McCain got on television and was whining and crying about how Obama was being mean to her husband. And then Palin gets on television and spent more of her time making quick one-liners about her opponents than she did discussing policy. I also noticed that concerning the issues with her family, (her young Downs Syndrome son and her daughter's pregnancy and upcoming marriage (!) ) republicans were surprisingly tolerant. It brought back thoughts of the revelation that Dick Cheney had a lesbian daughter. Had the tables been turned and these issues were tied to a Liberal candidate, we all know that their values and dedication would be brought into question by many, especially the religious right. So while I suppose I am relieved to see a bit of compassion (and I do agree that these issues do not have a place in a candidates qualifications), I can't help but believe that the right is not being caring, as much as they are just on the defensive.
So enough about the rnc, what about the democratic convention? I was only able to watch the speeches of Michelle and Barack Obama, but hopefully, I will be able to catch a youtube version of the others soon. I thought that Michelle proved intelligent, classy, and confident. She is someone whom I could trust and respect, and feel comfortable that she may be whispering into the ear of our nation's leader. Barack's speech in Denver was nothing short of inspiring and powerful. I, along with others I have spoken to, was moved to tears listening to his passion for our country, the world's people, and for change. I have only been able to vote for 6 years (and have been following politics for about 8) and it was so refreshing to hear someone speak about our country and its people with hope and promise and passion. It feels so different than the last election where I felt as though I had to pick the lesser of two evils, and that I was voting against someone instead of for someone. I am proud to be part of the election promise and excited for what 4 (or maybe 8) years of an Obama administration could bring to not only our country, but to the world.
Ok, moving on from politics, well, I don't really have a ton to say, but I do have some pictures that I will post for you all to see, so be excited!!!
TaTa
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Good news, a new addition, and same old, same old.
I know I know, its been a really long time since I posted and I am really sorry. I had a great time in North Carolina. It was really great to see my friend and her house and new life there. And of course it was FABULOUS to meet her new little daughter (and my Goddaughter), Eleanor (Nora) Larsen Brummond. She is just the cutest little bugger! We had a nice time just lounging around with the baby (well, I lounged, she fed, changed, and burped the baby....but I helped!), and spent one day out shopping and stuff in Wilmington (where Dawson's Creek and One Tree Hill are filmed). I was sad to leave and hopefully I can get back kind of soon. Although, I really did not enjoy driving from D.C. to her house alone and sleeping in my car. I also got a speeding ticket which didn't go over too well upon my arrival back in Milwaukee.
My friend, her husband, Nora, and their puppies will be coming for Christmas so I will definitely get to see them then. I took a bunch of pictures, I just have to find the cord to transfer them to my computer and then I will share them with everyone.
Speaking of puppies (kinda), yesterday, we added a new member to our family. Yes, we have another fur child! She is a 3 month old Labrador Retriever. She weighs about 20 lbs now and is just the prettiest little thing. We have not settled on a name yet, but I have been calling her Stella (and I have been suggesting Hilary to John, but he hasn't taken the bait! hehehe). She was one of 3 in a litter that, before being transferred from a shelter in Indiana, was a group of strays. She is VERY shy and kind of skiddish, but we are working on it. Mostly she has just been sleeping, but she did snatch Johns socks, the container of fish food, and on of my sandals, so I think she is coming around.
I found out today that the person who was being worked up to be a kidney donor is not going to work out (again), so now we are down to 1-2 people left. I am not really surprised or upset about it, because I have just come to expect it, but I am getting frustrated that we just keep going through people and no one works out. So, not a whole lot to say on that point right now I guess.
Tonight I have dialysis, and I think I may go a little earlier so I can get settled in by 9 so I can watch Obama's speech without interruptions from the staff. I am excited to hear what he has to say. As most of you know, I cut John's hair during the summer with a buzzer. This time when he needs it cut I am going to shave a big O in the back for Obama! Do you think he will notice and do you think he would get revenge by shaving a W into the back of my head? Feedback appreciated! Ta Ta
My friend, her husband, Nora, and their puppies will be coming for Christmas so I will definitely get to see them then. I took a bunch of pictures, I just have to find the cord to transfer them to my computer and then I will share them with everyone.
Speaking of puppies (kinda), yesterday, we added a new member to our family. Yes, we have another fur child! She is a 3 month old Labrador Retriever. She weighs about 20 lbs now and is just the prettiest little thing. We have not settled on a name yet, but I have been calling her Stella (and I have been suggesting Hilary to John, but he hasn't taken the bait! hehehe). She was one of 3 in a litter that, before being transferred from a shelter in Indiana, was a group of strays. She is VERY shy and kind of skiddish, but we are working on it. Mostly she has just been sleeping, but she did snatch Johns socks, the container of fish food, and on of my sandals, so I think she is coming around.
I found out today that the person who was being worked up to be a kidney donor is not going to work out (again), so now we are down to 1-2 people left. I am not really surprised or upset about it, because I have just come to expect it, but I am getting frustrated that we just keep going through people and no one works out. So, not a whole lot to say on that point right now I guess.
Tonight I have dialysis, and I think I may go a little earlier so I can get settled in by 9 so I can watch Obama's speech without interruptions from the staff. I am excited to hear what he has to say. As most of you know, I cut John's hair during the summer with a buzzer. This time when he needs it cut I am going to shave a big O in the back for Obama! Do you think he will notice and do you think he would get revenge by shaving a W into the back of my head? Feedback appreciated! Ta Ta
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Don't get excited, this isn't an actual post...well, kinda
Hello all of my dear readers!
It is now 2:20 a.m. and in 6 hours and 50 minutes I will be leavin on a jet plane! Whoo hoo! I am flying out to D.C. and then very early (like dark out early) on Monday I am going to be driving to North Carolina to visit my dear Melissa and new baby Nora! I am super excited! I will be there until Thursday afternoon, when I will be driving back up to D.C. and then returning to Milwaukee on Friday afternoon. I will miss you all, but if you are nice and leave me comments, I will post pictures. And I can't guarantee you anything, but I might post on location! I have a few good ideas to blog about soon, but I need to organize my thoughts. I am thinking maybe a book review, a post about women's/equal rights and how far we've (allegedly) come, or maybe something about friendship and the difference between having male and female friends. We shall see. Anyways, I talk to you when I talk to you. Oh, and for those of you who know me personally, please make sure my husband doesn't starve to death without me! Thanks! TaTa for Now!
It is now 2:20 a.m. and in 6 hours and 50 minutes I will be leavin on a jet plane! Whoo hoo! I am flying out to D.C. and then very early (like dark out early) on Monday I am going to be driving to North Carolina to visit my dear Melissa and new baby Nora! I am super excited! I will be there until Thursday afternoon, when I will be driving back up to D.C. and then returning to Milwaukee on Friday afternoon. I will miss you all, but if you are nice and leave me comments, I will post pictures. And I can't guarantee you anything, but I might post on location! I have a few good ideas to blog about soon, but I need to organize my thoughts. I am thinking maybe a book review, a post about women's/equal rights and how far we've (allegedly) come, or maybe something about friendship and the difference between having male and female friends. We shall see. Anyways, I talk to you when I talk to you. Oh, and for those of you who know me personally, please make sure my husband doesn't starve to death without me! Thanks! TaTa for Now!
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Eat Right....and other ramblings
Hello all!
Again, sorry that it has been so long since I have posted. No good ideas. First, an update! My birthday was Thursday, and it was a pretty good day!
I went to lunch with a friend down at Beans and Barley which I had never been to, but love! All of their menu options look totally healthy and they have a huge selection of tasty vegetarian things. So I highly recommend it and will be visiting back often! John came home from work and I got my present from him which was a gift certificate from Azana spa. So, I think I have narrowed it down to getting a facial and a massage- yum. We went to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, which was tasty. I am not a huge fan of this place because I generally do not like chain restaurants (if I never see the inside of an Applebee's, I can die a happy woman!) but they have pretty good food and we don't go there that often. I had a tasty chopped salad with corn, apples, eggs, tomatoes, etc along with an appetizer of crab wontons. Well, the "side salad" I ordered was GIANT so I couldn't finish all of it, but I did finish the wontons. That is another reason I don't like chains: they give you astronomically sized portions. Anyways, a good time was had by all.
The real purpose of this post is to tell you about my weight loss/get healthy plan. Well, its kind of a plan, but not really. You all know that I am not organized enough to have a plan! Anyways, I have been wanting to loose about 30 lbs that I gained since I started dialysis, due to me being wiped out and crashing on the couch and doing nothing usually. So, me becoming a vegetarian was the first step to this "plan". I do eat fish occasionally, because my dietician wanted to make sure I ate enough protein. But no beef, pork, poultry, or any other weird animal meat. I also do not eat any white flour. I eat whole grain bread, cereal, pasta, etc. I have been doing this for a few months, actually, and have noticed a small difference. With the "no white flour" you are also supposed to do "no white sugar" but I can't do that. I have really cut down the sugar I eat, but once and a while, you need a little kick. Lately, though, I have been eating tons of fruit, which gives you the natural sugar, so I have been able to eat less processed sugar. One other big change I have made is that I do not drink soda anymore at all. It is just plain bad for you. Period.
Next I wanted to share what my normal meals look like. My meals are pretty varied especially in the summer when I am just not as hungry as normal. Its just to hot to eat sometimes! But, here goes:
Breakfast:
Whole wheat bagel with margarine or fat-free cream cheese
Scrambled egg on whole grain toast
Small bowl of organic rice krispies with skim milk
FRUIT!
Lunch:
Tuna Salad (made with low sodium tuna in water and low fat mayo- I add celery and green onions also)
Apple with organic peanut butter, cheese wedges, and whole grain dinner roll
Egg Scrambler (Scrambled eggs with veggies and cheese)
Fresh fruit
Veggies and dip
Dinner:
Veggie burgers, or Soy "chicken" patties
Salad with cheese and eggs for protein
Tilapia fillet (they sell them frozen and flavored at Pick N Save for cheap!) with steamed veggies
Whole wheat pasta with marinara sauce
Fish Tacos (made with wheat or corn taco shells/tortillas)
Snacks:
Kettle Chips (they actually have less sodium than you may think)
Nuts (Sorry, no honey roasted peanuts)
100 % fruit popsicles
Yoplait "Whips" Yogurt
String Cheese (Low fat Mozzarella)
Fresh Fruit
Beverages:
100% fruit juice (I love Juicy Juice juiceboxes)
Iced tea (Usually a good bet at restaurants or vending machines)
Ice water!
Yeah, so thats pretty much what I eat. Although, I did come across a blog that I would love for you to visit. In my "Favorite Blogs" list, there is a blog called ConfessionsofaCFHusband that you should definately check out. It is basically about his experience stemming from his wife, Tricia's struggle with Cystic Fibrosis. One of the readers of that blog decided that he wanted to loose weight, but also do something to further the cause of curing CF . So he has decided that he wants to loose 65 pounds. He is raising money for his efforts and all donations will be sent to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in Tricia's name. His blog has TONS of awesome ideas and tips and whatnot, so you should really read over some of his past posts. Go there NOW.
And now, this is a ridiculously long post, but now you all have to help hold me accountable for eating healthy. Next post will be about exercise. Anybody have suggestions? Please send them ASAP! Thanks.
Again, sorry that it has been so long since I have posted. No good ideas. First, an update! My birthday was Thursday, and it was a pretty good day!
I went to lunch with a friend down at Beans and Barley which I had never been to, but love! All of their menu options look totally healthy and they have a huge selection of tasty vegetarian things. So I highly recommend it and will be visiting back often! John came home from work and I got my present from him which was a gift certificate from Azana spa. So, I think I have narrowed it down to getting a facial and a massage- yum. We went to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, which was tasty. I am not a huge fan of this place because I generally do not like chain restaurants (if I never see the inside of an Applebee's, I can die a happy woman!) but they have pretty good food and we don't go there that often. I had a tasty chopped salad with corn, apples, eggs, tomatoes, etc along with an appetizer of crab wontons. Well, the "side salad" I ordered was GIANT so I couldn't finish all of it, but I did finish the wontons. That is another reason I don't like chains: they give you astronomically sized portions. Anyways, a good time was had by all.
The real purpose of this post is to tell you about my weight loss/get healthy plan. Well, its kind of a plan, but not really. You all know that I am not organized enough to have a plan! Anyways, I have been wanting to loose about 30 lbs that I gained since I started dialysis, due to me being wiped out and crashing on the couch and doing nothing usually. So, me becoming a vegetarian was the first step to this "plan". I do eat fish occasionally, because my dietician wanted to make sure I ate enough protein. But no beef, pork, poultry, or any other weird animal meat. I also do not eat any white flour. I eat whole grain bread, cereal, pasta, etc. I have been doing this for a few months, actually, and have noticed a small difference. With the "no white flour" you are also supposed to do "no white sugar" but I can't do that. I have really cut down the sugar I eat, but once and a while, you need a little kick. Lately, though, I have been eating tons of fruit, which gives you the natural sugar, so I have been able to eat less processed sugar. One other big change I have made is that I do not drink soda anymore at all. It is just plain bad for you. Period.
Next I wanted to share what my normal meals look like. My meals are pretty varied especially in the summer when I am just not as hungry as normal. Its just to hot to eat sometimes! But, here goes:
Breakfast:
Whole wheat bagel with margarine or fat-free cream cheese
Scrambled egg on whole grain toast
Small bowl of organic rice krispies with skim milk
FRUIT!
Lunch:
Tuna Salad (made with low sodium tuna in water and low fat mayo- I add celery and green onions also)
Apple with organic peanut butter, cheese wedges, and whole grain dinner roll
Egg Scrambler (Scrambled eggs with veggies and cheese)
Fresh fruit
Veggies and dip
Dinner:
Veggie burgers, or Soy "chicken" patties
Salad with cheese and eggs for protein
Tilapia fillet (they sell them frozen and flavored at Pick N Save for cheap!) with steamed veggies
Whole wheat pasta with marinara sauce
Fish Tacos (made with wheat or corn taco shells/tortillas)
Snacks:
Kettle Chips (they actually have less sodium than you may think)
Nuts (Sorry, no honey roasted peanuts)
100 % fruit popsicles
Yoplait "Whips" Yogurt
String Cheese (Low fat Mozzarella)
Fresh Fruit
Beverages:
100% fruit juice (I love Juicy Juice juiceboxes)
Iced tea (Usually a good bet at restaurants or vending machines)
Ice water!
Yeah, so thats pretty much what I eat. Although, I did come across a blog that I would love for you to visit. In my "Favorite Blogs" list, there is a blog called ConfessionsofaCFHusband that you should definately check out. It is basically about his experience stemming from his wife, Tricia's struggle with Cystic Fibrosis. One of the readers of that blog decided that he wanted to loose weight, but also do something to further the cause of curing CF . So he has decided that he wants to loose 65 pounds. He is raising money for his efforts and all donations will be sent to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in Tricia's name. His blog has TONS of awesome ideas and tips and whatnot, so you should really read over some of his past posts. Go there NOW.
And now, this is a ridiculously long post, but now you all have to help hold me accountable for eating healthy. Next post will be about exercise. Anybody have suggestions? Please send them ASAP! Thanks.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
