Sheaves of Wheat

What I Ate While Watching Bad TV With an Old Friend:

• brown/white skirt (Target)
• brown V-neck shirt (George/Walmart)
• brown/tweed reversible belt (?)
• brown wedge boots (Cloudwalkers)
• goldtone sheaves of wheat brooch (borrowed from Maria)*
• gold earrings (vintage from when my Mom was in the Navy)
• goldtone teardrop necklace (Walmart)
• brown/white wooden bangle (Lane Bryant)
• pink/orange scarf (Banana Republic, thrifted from Goodwill)
• brown patent bag (Rafe for Target)

* brooch #4 in my stolen from Maria series

I added the scarf because I felt like the outfit needed a little pop of color since everything else was brown. And I am sad to report that this skirt is now too big. It's a beautiful skirt with a sateen finish. And I have the same skirt in black. Any plus size girls out there interested in a swap?

What I Ate While Blaming it on Lack of Groceries:

• breakfast - McDonalds sausage McMuffin & hasbrowns
• lunch - Chick-Fil-A sandwich & fries
• dinner - creamy chicken noodles, snap peas, peaches
• dessert - ice cream w/ granola & magic shell

Yikes. Man, I lose ten pounds and then try to gain it all back in 1 day. Smart.

Yellow Rose of Texas

I got caught in the rain today while walking from a training at the federal courts to my office building. And I left my umbrella in my car. Oops.

What I Wore While Running Down the Street in the Rain:

Rand couldn't get a pic in focus, so this will have to do. Sorry.

• aqua shortsleeve faux wrap T shirt (Target)
• brown slacks (Lane Bryant)
• brown/aqua/white/black tweed short sleeve jacket (Target)
• brown flats (Se Boutique)
• aqua purse (via Kohls)
• yellow rose brooch (borrowed from Maria)*
• key necklace (antique store in Austin)
• aqua earrings (??)
• brown belt (Ross?)

* brooch #3 in my "borrowed from Maria" series.

What I Ate While Out For $2 Margaritas:

• beef fajitas
• chips and queso
• $2 margaritas!
• 1 microwave smore

SPLURGE MEAL!

Blue Bird of Happiness

I was washing my face this morning and thinking to myself that my face looked really uneven. It took a few seconds of considering what I should try to even out my skin tone before I realized - duh, I was outside hiking this weekend. It's my freckles coming back from their winter hiatus. How silly do you have to be to forget you have freckles on your face?? I mean my arms are certainly still covered in them, so it's not like I don't have a daily reminder. Maybe it's Alzheimers? Can you get that at 34?

What I Wore After Remembering I Have Freckles:

• white wrap blouse (Lane Bryant) *
• pink tank (Old Navy)
• blue/coral/white skirt (George/Walmart)
• coral leather belt (Faded Glory/Walmart)
• blue/silver earrings (I've had them for ages, so I have no clue)
• pink/blue dodo brooch, worn as a necklace (borrowed from Maria)
• blue buckle heels (Rouge, which I think is from Dots)
• baby blue leatherette purse (thrifted, Goodwill)

* this is one of my shirts that was attacked by the sun. (I converted a room with lots of windows into a closet and origianlly I didn't have my racks in the right places and there was sun damage. On a white shirt that means it turned the sleeve facing the sun yellow. I thought it was ruined, but I used bluing in my load of whites and everything seems to be better. If you look really closely you can still see a faint difference in color, but not unless you really look for it. So I'm happy to report that I can wear this shirt again, which is good b/c I have a really hard time finding blouses that fit, and I'm losing weight so I'd rather wait to buy something until this one doesn't fit anymore.

What I Ate After Working a 12 Hour Day:

I missed dinner at home, so I ended up with jelly beans, graham crackers from Jason's Deli, and string cheese. Mmmm healthy.

Crafty Inspiration

My good friend Maria came over yesterday so we could have a crafty day together. We used to scrapbook together, but she recently started selling handmade pursehooks, so she worked on that while I scrapbooked. All day long I kept looking over at her and oohing and ahhing over what she was doing. She uses vintage jewelry to make her gorgeous hooks, so every once in a while I would say "You HAVE to wear that necklace before you take it apart" or "Pleeeeeeease let me wear that before you use it." Well finally I wore her down (nah, she just a great friend) and she agreed to let me snag 5-6 brooches to wear as long as I return them before she gets crafty again next weekend. So it's going to be a brooch intensive week for me!

Oh if you are interested in seeing her purse hooks, she has an Etsy shop. She should be adding more hooks soon, since I know she spent all weekend making new ones.

What I Wore While Battling a Downpour:

• cream/black embroidered mesh skirt (Lane Bryant)
• cream satin tank with attached black cardigan (Lane Bryant)
• black leather studded belt (thrifted, new stock @ Goodwill)
• cameo screwback earrings (vintage, antique store in Austin)
• camel bead multistrand necklace, modified with leather by me (Lane Bryant?)
• goldtone "medal" brooch w/ black beads (borrowed from Maria)
• black leather boots (Cloudwalkers)
• black crocodile leather clutch (thrifted, Goodwill)

I decided to go for a little "leather and lace" combo today by balancing the sweetness of the skirt and shirt with the toughness of the leather boots, belt, and modified necklace. I'm quite happy with the result.

What I Ate After Refusing to Go to the Grocery Store:

• 2 oz whole wheat pasta
• 3 oz longhorn meatballs
• 1 cup pasta sauce
• side salad
• 1 glass merlot

What I Did Not Do For Exercise:

Unfortunately I don't have any cute pics of Erin and I at hula hoop class tonight. The class was cancelled, but she and I made plans to go next Monday instead. So stay tuned for what I am sure will be a lot of fun.

Total for the Day:

I'm not sure, b/c I ate a couple small cookies at work today, but I'm pretty sure I'm under 1800 for the day, which is where I am supposed to be.

10 Pounds!

I finally did it! When I weighed myself Sunday morning, I had lost exactly 10 lbs since I started 2 months ago. I know I have a lot more weight to lose, but let's be honest - accomplishing small goals is such a good motivator, and every little bit helps! I'm so excited.

So of course it was time to take measurements too.



I didn't take new progress photos b/c I don't have a camera right now (I'm using my blackberry until May) and Rand wasn't around to take the pics. So I'll get new progress photos soon.

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If you are reading this post in a reader, the chart above probably is not showing up. So if you care to see my measurements, just head over to my blog. But if you don't care to see that I lost 3 inches in my hips (I don't blame you for not caring), then just go about your day.

Red Week Roundup

What I Wore Over the Week That Was Red:

To answer my own question from the beginning of the week, no one noticed that I wore red every day. Not even Rand who took all of these pictures. I actually felt the best on Friday with my suit on. Clearly I am a lawyer all the way down to my very core, if having a basic black suit on made me feel my best.

Do you have a favorite? Or one you think is a flop?

What I Did for Exercise While Being Thankful the Rain Stayed Away:

Rand and I went for a 3 mile hike at the Cedar Ridge Preserve. It was great. Some of it was actually quite difficult (and some was basically walking) but I huffed and puffed my way through it. I really enjoy using my body for activity so much more than exercising. I felt exhilerated (and sweaty) when we were done. We've already decided we will go again before it gets hot.

Webcams & Wrecks

Well casual Friday was a bust, which really made me sad since I had a super-cute outfit involving red suspenders ready to go. But I ended up have two appointments today that both required a suit, so the suspenders were put on hold.

At the second appointment I was asked to take a typing test, which I found hilarious. I'm an attorney, so it's not usually a required skill, but this employer had recently been burned by hiring several attorneys who were not computer saavy at all. Oh I also have to talk about myself on webcam for a few minutes. Awkward!

I stopped by Goodwill on my way home - you will be seeing lots more scarves from soon! And on my way back from Goodwill I ran into a ton of traffic. Here's why----------------------------------->


What I Wore While on Webcam:

• black suit (Lane Bryant)
• red silk ruffled shell (Max Studio)
• leopard pont hair pumps (Charles by Charles David)
• snake head garnet earrings (antique, gift)
• garnet ring (gift)
• camel colored stone multistrand necklace (Lane Bryant?)

What I Ate After Seeing a Very Scary Car Wreck:

• spinach & tomato pasta
• pesto pizza

We had our friend Maria over for dinner tonight and all three of us agreed that the pasta we made was really gross. So we gave in and ordered pizza.

Guest Blogger - Stacy IV

Please welcome photographer-extraordinaire a.k.a. Best Sister Ever a.k.a. Stacy for her final installment as a guest blogger. She gamely agreed to participate in Red Week.
_________________________

I don't normally wear a lot of red. I just don't own a lot of it, but I must look at least a little foxy in it because those high school boys at Menards were sure watching me come down the aisles. I felt pretty good about that on the inside, but of course, was trying to look like I didn't care!
I'm touching up and redecorating my home office, so I have been scouting for shelves, lamps, etc. for the past week.

Here was my best attempt to bring in some red for Tina's "Red Week". I have a quick photo tip for you girls. You'll notice this week's photo is taken from above. If you want to look a little slimmer, just have someone a little taller (or get them up on some stairs above you - like my crazy tall husband did) and take some shots from above. It is slimming and more flattering. ;)

What I Wore While Making My 4th Trip to Menards this Week:

• Red Earrings - Maurices
• Black Necklace - Bergners
• Red Henley Tank - Eddie Bauer
• Black 3/4 Sleeve Button Down - Express
• Belt - Kohls
• Black Pants - AB Studio via Kohls
• Black Ballet Flats - Clarks
• Bracelet - Kohls

I'm reusing the black belt and necklace this week. I guess I don't have a ton of accessories and this just proves the point that if you buy the right pieces, you really can mix and match.

Food Details - 29 pts

I sadly failed again to take photos of my meals. Sorry, Tina! I'll try harder next time.

I'm still counting points on WW. I just made it in and maxed out my 29 pt allowance. I use 'em all

Breakfast

• Diet Pepsi - 0 pts
• Yogurt - 2 pts

Lunch - I tried something new and really like it! Healthy Choice Cafe Steamers. Yum!

• Chicken Margherita Cafe Steamer - 6 pts
• Red delicious apple - 2 pts
• Diet Pepsi - 0 pts

Snack

• Nutrigrain Bar - 3 pts

Dinner

• (2) Turkey Burgers - 14 pts
• Pringles - 2 pts

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Thanks, Stacy! It's been great having you as a guest blogger for April. Since Rand is even taller than your super-tall husband, I'm going to have to have him start taking those high-angled, slimming pics.

7-11 Strikes Again

When I got to work today, I realized I was underdressed. Normally what I am wearing would be on the casual side of acceptable, but today the "big bosses" were here, so I would have felt more comfortable in something dressier.

We ran to 7-11 to get coffee this morning and this time my coworker was scalded by hot coffee that overflowed out of the machine and onto his hand, and then he was overcharged for his other items. This is the same 7-11 we were at when the hotel caught on fire. I'm starting to think that we shouldn't go there for coffee anymore. Yikes!

What I Wore While 7-11 Attacked My Coworker:

ignore my weird face - I only get one "take" when Rand is my photohrapher

• red graphic short-sleeve T (Lane Bryant)
• tan corduroy skirt (Ann Taylor Loft)
• cream bead belt (? via Ross)
• goldtone hoops (via Macy's)
• goldtone oval link necklace (via Macy's)
• goldtone wrap necklace (H&M)
• goldtone & faux pearl necklace (thrifted new stock @ Goodwill)
• red leather gold chain flats (?? it's worn off and I don't remember)

What I Ate That Was Healthy But Flavorless:

• 4 oz tilapia (we didn't put enough spices on it, so it was bland)
• 1 c. wild rice
• side salad w/ carrots, red bell pepper, yellow squash, and avocado

• dessert - grilled pineapple in a tiny graham cracker and chocolate pie shell

What I Did To Get Exercise While Running An Errand:

We returned the movie from last by walking to Blockbuster. It's about a mile from our house, so that's a 2 mile walk roundtrip. Not to bad for a little pre-dinner walk.

Total for the Day: 1278 calories, 2 mile walk

On a Ball

Today Maria, a good friend of mine and shopping cohort, sent me the following email "Guess where it's time to go again. http://www.vantageshoewarehouse.com/location.html " She's so evil. Last time we were there, I bought 6 pairs of shoes. Fabulous shoes, of course, but 6 pairs that I honestly didn't need. And I've been on a shoe-buying ban. I have broken that a few times, such as when I found knee high boots that fit (this takes me years to find that fit my calves, so I buy them when I find them) and when Kimberly pointed out a great sale. But my shoe shrine is full, which means I currently have about 90 pairs of shoes. That's got to be enough, right?

How many pairs of shoes do you have?

What I Wore While Wishing I Had More Shoes:

• red short sleeve blouse (Apt 9)
• black/white plaid slacks (Newport News)
• grey snakeskin belt (Dots)
• black leather heels (Nicole Miller)
• red multistrand necklace (Lane Bryant?)
• silver earrings (?)

What I Ate While Watching Frost/Nixon:

• Scallini's pesto pizza (I ate about 1/2 of what is pictured)

We were supposed to go out with friends tonight but they cancelled so we rented a movie and ordered in pizza. Yum. Don't worry, this was a scheduled splurge meal. It's splurge meal #1 of the week. My other splurge meal is scheduled for the weekend.

What I Did For Exercise That Was Uber Lame:

Karen Voight: Butt, Legs & Tummy On a Ball

I've had this DVD for a long time now. I haven't used it in years, so I dragged it out this morning for a little variety. It was really short and really quit lame. I didn't even get sweaty.



Total for the Day: approx 1000 calories before dinner (which is on track), 20 minutes "On a Ball" exercise

In a Jam?

This morning I had to run to the grocery store to exchange some preserves that had been opened and eaten (??) at the store. Eeewwww. Who does that? It made my PBJ for lunch yesterday quite bland since there was no J to speak of. Hence the need to get to the store first thing this morning so that today's lunch could be rescued.

What I Wore While Exchanging Jam at the Store:

• black/white sheer pintucked blouse (Newport News)
• black cardi (Target)
• peach/red/black/white A-line skirt (thrifted via Goodwill) - I know the pic makes the flowers look peach and pink, but they are actually peach and red
• black woven leather platform heels
• silver-tone/black enamel bracelet (Ross)
• red beaded necklace (so old I don't remember where I got it, extended with leather by me)
• red/aqua bead earrings (street vendor in Austin)
• black leather belt (?)

I tried a little pattern mixing today. It's okay, but not my favorite. What do you think? And I've decided it's a good thing that where I work is pretty casual about the business casual dress code, b/c this skirt is still really casual, even with the dress blouse. I think I'll stick to wearing it with cute Ts and flip flops on the weekends.

What I Ate While Wishing Pringles Were Calorie-free:

This week's breakfast: Smore's oatmeal (this seems to be happening all over the place this week)

• 1/2 c. regular oats
• tiny bit of skim milk in the cooking water
• 1 T chocolate chips
• 1/5 c. mini marshmallows
• strawberries on the side

This Week's Lunch:

• PBJ - today with J!! (mixture of Petter'n Peanut Butter & creamy PB, plus sugar free blueberry preserves)
• small gala apple
• 2 celery stalks
• 24 Bakes Cheese crackers (I had room for extra calories)
  

Dinner

• ceviche
• 4 corn tortillas
• approz 10 tortilla chips
• 2 glasses of sangria

What I am Super-Excited About Doing for Exercise Next Week:

Recently, Erin and I discovered that we only live a few blocks away, but we've never met. Today, she invited me to come to a hula hooping exercise class next Monday with her. I can't tell you how excited I am to swirl my hips inside a big (not bog as previously written) plastic hoop. But even better, I'll get to meet Erin in person.

Total for the Day: 1947 calories, no exercise

Fire Red

Today a coworker and I decided to run to 7-11 to grab coffee. I have never been to this 7-11 before, but it is right next to a hotel that is attached to my office tower. So usually if we're headed that direction we walk through the hotel. In fact, I used to park my car in the hotel parking garage. But today we walked around the building on the street. As we rounded the corner and started to cross the street, we had to step back up on the sidewalk b/c an ambulance was barreling our way. Then another. Then a fire engine. Then a fire truck. Then another and another. Wow! What was going on?

We crossed the street and walked along next to our building, and then we see smoke pouring out of the parking garage, and coming up out of the steam grates. Yikes! The hotel basement was on fire! So we're standing there and a fire truck (probably the 3rd at this point) pulls up. It's from a firestation where I have friends. So, I'm looking to see if I know the guys, but I don't so we turn around to go into the 7-11. Bam! I'm staring right at a friend in full gear, with oxygen on his back, carrying a fire ax as he runs into the building. Let's be honest; he looked yummy! I was hoping I would see a different fireman that I went out with a few times since they work together, but apparently he was on the truck where I said I didn't know anyone. So I missed an opportunity to ogle an "old flame" in a sexy setting. Oh well.

The fire was put out and everyone was safe. But I thought this was a very interesting tie-in to my week theme: RED! (red fire engines, red flames - okay it's cheesy, but it my theme, so let me be cheesy if I want). I was inspired by Kasmira's week of yellow and decided to try my own color week. I wonder if anyone will notice?

What I Wore While Watching a Burning Building:

• silk red/peach polka dot skirt (La Redoutte)
• cream sleeveless shell (Max Studio)
• yellow cardi (Target)
• red/yellow flower brooch (thrifted via Goodwill)
• red suede peep-toe wedges (Old Navy)
• yellow stone earrings (??)

I woud like to add that this outfit was smokin' (yes, another bad pun) before I put the cari on, but it wasn't very work appropriate so I had to layer the cardi on top to go to the office.

What I Ate After We Finally Remembered To Turn On the Crockpot:

sorry. out of focus and then my battery died

• 4 oz. crockpot mexican chicken
• 8 oz. white potato
• 1/4 c. fat free cheddar
• 2 T. fat free sour cream
• 4 oz red wine turned into sangria
• side salad w/ rd bell pepper, yellow squash, corn, carrots, and avodcado
• dessert - 1 chocolate crepe made from Fiber One pancake mix

What I Did For Exercise Disguised as Quality Time:

Since we forgot to start the crockpot until 4:30 today, we went for a pre-dinner walk to give it a little extra time to cook. We just took our glasses of sangria and strolled around our neighborhood. Most of the people here are pretty young and have young children, so there are lots of people out and about right after work. You get a lot of waves and hellos while you stroll.

Total for the Day: 1661 calories, 20 min walk

What Really Happens At the Ranch

What I Ate To Prepare For a Long Trek to Inspect the Animals:

• 1/2 dutch apple pancake
• 2 slices bacon
• 2 oz OJ

What I Really Wear When Out in the Mud and ... uh... "Ranch Muck"

• jeans (Walmart)
• athletic T (free from a bike race)
• University of Virginia sweatshirt (from approx 1989!)
• flip flops (Old Navy)
• chick (local feed & seed)

From Office to Ranch

We drove out to my family ranch on Friday. I went straight from the office, so I had to wear something that was office appropriate (casual Friday), comfortable for a few hours in the car, and appropriate for the ranch. I decided flats, jeans, a T worked well for the ranch, then I added a jacket and scarf to dress it up a little. I really like wearing a scarf like necklace.

What I Wore At the Office & at the Ranch:

• curvy jeans (Gap)
• orange short-sleeve v-neck T (Daisy Fuentes)
• black tweed distressed jacket (Old Navy)
• orange/white/blue/grey/black scarf (thrifted via Goodwill)
• black satin ballet flats (via Kohl's)

What I Ate That Was Fancy b/c My Mom Did the Cooking:


This was my second splurge meal of the week. That's it. All done. Thanks for the great meal, Mom!

• veal piccata
• fresh pasta
• ceasar salad
• red wine, lots and lots with lots of good convo to go with

Guest Blogger - Stacy, Part III

Stacy is back for the third Friday this month and she's been shopping! Like many of the saavy, fashionable ladies in the blogosphere, she hit up Target for some inexpensive and lovely goodies. This bright pink wrap sweater was one of her new finds. I love it!

Without further ado, here's Stacy...
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What I Wore While Nodding Off During A Meeting:


Sorry I look all in disarray. This photo was taken at the end of the day. I should have taken this photo with my umbrella because it just keeps raining here. It really is an accessory right now.Why won't it stop raining?!! Why?

• Pink Wrap Sweater - Target
• Smooth White Tank - Eddie Bauer
• Pants - AB Studio via Kolhs
• Striped socks - Eddie Bauer
• Shoes - Clarks
• Hoop Earrings - New York & Co.
• Necklace - Target

Food Details:

I am following the WW points system and should be eating 29 points each day. If you do tha math, today I had 33 points. (Over by 4 points and if you look close, it's because of the cookies...darn!)

Breakfast - 4 pts

• Yoplait light yogurt Banana Cream Pie - 2 pts
• Nutrigrain Mixed Berry Bar - 2 pts

Lunch - 11 pts

• Turkey Sandwich with fat free Miracle Whip and lettuce on wheat bread - 3 pts
• 2 servings of Fat Free Pringles - 2 pts
• 1 Golden Jonathan Apple - 2 pts
• 3 mini Toll House chocolate chip cookies - 4 pts

Mid Day Snack - 4 pts

• 1/2 cup of raisins and cherry Craisins

Dinner - 14 pts

• 2 Chicken & Couscous Wraps - 14 points - made with tortillas, couscous, canned chicken, olive oil, sour cream and tomato.... NOM YUMMY!

Exercise:

Did I work out? Um....well....see..does yawning and stretching during a meeting count? No? Well, what about intentionally using the 2nd floor restroom 3 times so as to use the stairs? Maybe? I even parked way way way out and the end of the lot so as to walk as far as possible from the building to my car.... =)

Pathetic I know. =(
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Well Stacy, I don't think that you are pathetic. I think we have all had days where our "exercise" was limited to reaching for the TV remote or walking to the kitchen to grab a snack. And while walking up the stairs to go to the bathroom on a different floor isn't going to make you skinny, I think it's always a good thing to do small little "tricks" rather than do nothing at all. And I happen to know that you rode your bike 34 miles over the weekend, so it looks like we just caught you on a non-exercise day.

Annoying Pink Shirt

There is a building of high rise lofts across from my office building and this one window has a small pink T-shirt stuck to the window. It's been there for at least a year. It drives me crazy. Why is it there? To block the sun? Privacy? (although we're on the 17th floor, so it's unlikely to be needed after business hours.) To prevent glare from the sun? Is there anything on the front? It looks tiny - is it a child's T? And why would there be a kid living there? I used to live downtown and I've never seen a child anywhere down here. ACK!! It's taunting me!!






What I Wore While Staring at a Pink Shirt Out the Window:

Today was another winner of an outfit as far as Rand is concerned. I got an unsolicited "You look hot. Aside from the pink skirt outfit, this is my favorite so far. Seriously, you look hot." Nothing like a little flattery to start your day off, right? While I don't dress "for Rand" it is important to me that he knows that I put effort into my appearance not only for me, but also because I want to look nice for him. I have a tendency to come home and immediately change into my comfy pants. Recently, I've tried to stop doing that b/c I think it shows that I am not taking him for granted. And he seems to appreciate that.

• brown/camel/white/blue abstract print wrap dress (NY&Co.)
• blue short sleeve blouse (Old Navy)
• bug ring (Dots)
• brown tweed kitten heels (Merona)
• taupe faux pearl necklaces (thrifted, local charity shop)
• faux pearl/gold tone stud earrings (Xmas gift from grandparents many years ago)
• goldtone starburst brooch (thirfted - it's hidden in the tie of my belt)

What I Ate While Wishing My Jaw Wasn't Still Sore From the Dentist:

• 3.5 oz of meatloaf made with longhorn beef (from our family ranch) and low cal bread crumbs
• 2 T ketchup
• 1 c. roasted broccoli - this was super delish!
• 1 cup of mashed potatoes made w/ russet potatoes, skim milk, garlic, and 1 T butter
• dessert - fresh mango

Totals for the Day: 1691 calories, 20 minutes neighborhood walk

Tax Day!

I had to wear pants today since I was going to be spending several hours in the dentist's chair. One of my old fillings wasn't done properly the first time around which meant I had a new cavity under it. Ugh. My face was numb and useless for hours. Result? Weird smile and a craving for mashed potatoes since they don't require chewing. ha!

What I Wore While the Dentist Had 6 Tools in My Mouth:

• maroon tweed pants (Lane Bryant)
• maroon satin tank (old Navy)
• camel cardigan (Kathie Lee, thrifted)
• brown leather belt (CK jeans via Ross)
• stone earrings & necklace (gifted)
• leopard pony hair punps (Charles by Charles David via scary shoe warehouse in downtown Dallas)
• pink/camel/brown/white fabric flower pin (Target)

What I Ate While I Still Had th Ability to Chew:


Breakfast for the Week:

• 2/3 cup cooked barley
• 2/3 small gala apple
• 3 dates, chopped
• ground cloves, cinnamon & splenda, and 1 T half & half

Lunch for the Week:

• seeduction bread
• mixture of 1 T Better'n Peanut Butter and 1/2 T regular peanut butter (in an attempt to cut calories and keep taste)
• 2 medium carrots
• 1 small grapefruit

• bangers & mash (I decided I needed mashed potatoes since I couldn't chew, and ended up with sausage too b/c I LOVE IT!)
• 3 Wild Blue lagers
• 3 1/2 Krispy Kreme donuts (uh...we've been talking about them for a week and finally gave in)

This is my weekday splurge meal, so I have a weekend splurge meal too. I just have to keep the rest of it in control.

ooohh Sparkles!

What I Wore While Wondering If I'm Related To Liberace:

I won't deny it, in certain ways I am really girly. I like lace, and embroidery, and ....ooooh look at that! It's shiny!...uh sequins and stuff. I try very hard not to let too many of them into my wardrobe and I certainly try not too get too many into one outfit. Until today.

I decided to embrace two embellished pieces out of my closet and wear them together. I've had this sequined T in my closet for over a year now and I've never worn it since it's a little clingy, and I've got a lot to cling to - and not all of it in the right places. But this cute little embroidered (and beaded!) cardi I picked up for $1 at Goodwill hides a lot of that. And I think it hides the flashiness of the sequins. Well, I thought that until I saw myself shimmering in the elevator mirrors.

I tried this outfit with a belt too (you know how I love a belted cardi) but I felt like it detracted rather than added. I will say, this doesn't look as boxy in person as it does in the photo. The T clings enough that you can still see curves. yay! I hate looking like a linebacker, although they do wear shiny pants...hmmm....

• black skirt (thrifted, George new at Goodwill)
• grey heather long sleeve V-neck T with major sequins (Newport News)
• grey embroidered cardi (thrifted, Goodwill)
• saint charm necklace (The Vatican)
• grey bead earrings (thrifted, Target new stock at Goodwill)
• black buckle pumps (Nicole Miller)

What I Ate While Watching Swordfighting In the Park Across the Street:

• oven baked crispy chicken sandwich (I didn't eat the bread. It was stale.)
• 1 oz oven baked fries
• 1 tsp ketchup
• 1 c. Zucchini with Edamame and Tomatoes
• 3 oz. red wine
• dessert: 2 blackbean brownies w/ 2 T. fate free Cool Whip

What I Did for Exercise While Rand Stared RIGHT AT ME:

Kath always talks about getting up and doing yoga every morning, and who doesn't want to be like Kath, right? So, I downloaded 20 minutes of free yoga.

I've tried yoga many times. It's usually not pretty. So why did Rand have to sit there on the couch while I was trying to do it? He's never going to think I am sexy again after watching me try to grab my ankles and pull them over my head while grunted like a pig wallow in a mud hole. (We occasionally have pigs at the family ranch, so trust me when I say this is what I sounded like.)

Oh Kath, your food suggestions are divine. You are so amazing! Why did my awe of you lead me into this pig grunt mess? I bet you sound and look divine while flowing through all these moves. But Kath being the great person I suspect she is, suggested a couple of diferent downloads for me to try. So, I am not giving up! I'll try again next week. Thanks, Kath!

Totals for the Day: 1672 calories, 20 minutes of yoga

It's Not Easy Being Green

If you are coming here from Kasmira's blog, welcome! I am so flattered that she not only reads my blog, but also thinks I am cool. Contrary to what she said, I'm pretty certain that she is way cooler than I. And I know for sure that she's one of the reasons I decided to do a fashion blog. I was so inspired by her website, that when I decided to track my food, I knew I needed to track my clothing too. So, thank you, Kasmira! I was totally blushing with a huge grin on my face when I read your blog post today. You made my day!

What I Wore While Blushing Like a School Girl:


Sorry for the squinty look today. The only place to take a pic that didn't have major shadows put me with the sun glaring down into my eyes. And just in case you wondered - yes, I am that pale. I reflect sunlight.

• cream cap sleeve shirt (Target)
• green wrap sweater (Target)
• green tweed tulip skirt (Lane Bryant)
• gold/cream T-strap heels (Santana)
• jade elephant necklace (via Ross)
• gold tone & pearl necklace (new stock via Goodwill)
• patina-ed lizard cuff (gift from Mom many many many years ago)
• gold earrings (via Macy's)

What I Ate While Telling Rand That I am Sure To Be Famous Now (ha!):

• parchment fish (from Kath Eats, we made it with salmon, soy, and ginger) - I only ate about 2/3 of this
• 1 artisan roll
• 1 T butter (mmm good - I consider this to be a major benefit to such an otherwise low calorie meal - room for butter calories!)
• 1 glass of sangria that I made from red wine, diet sprite, and grapefruit
• 2 black bean brownies

What I Did While Trying NOT To Get Sweaty:

I walked 10 flights of stairs today at work. I wasn't really doing it for a workout per se, but I had to go to the 7th floor and figured I shoud just walk back up to the 17th when I was done (I won't walk down stairs in heels any more and after falling down an entire flight of concrete stairs a few years ago). Since it was the middle of the day, I did not want to get gross, so I took my time. I was not sweaty, but man I was out of breath!

Total for the Day: 1581 calories, 5 glasses of water, 10 flights of stairs

Week 7 Weigh In & Goals

Starting Weight: 230.5 lbs
Week 1: 226.5 lbs
Week 2: 228.0 lbs
Week 3: 224.5 lbs
Week 4: 225.0 lbs
Week 5: 223.0 lbs
Week 6: 224.0 lbs
Week 7: 224.0 lbs

Change for the Week: none

Total Change: -6.5 lbs

Week 7 Goals:

• 1800 calories/day - only 3 days
• 6 glasses of water/day - 5 days
• only have 2 splurge meals over the weekend - I had 3
• 20 min workout during the week x 3, 60 min workout x 1 on the weekend - YES
• find a new curling iron or curlers the correct size for new hair cut - I figued out how to use something I already had

Week 8 Goals:

• only have 2 splurge meals over the week
• 20 min workout during the week x 3
• 60 min workout over the weekend
• get teeth cleaned
  

Guest Blogger - Stacy, Part II

Please welcome my sister Stacy, back for her second Friday of guest blogging!!

Outfit Details:

• Cardigan Sweater: Elle - Kohls
• Taupe Tank: Ann Taylor Loft
• Jeans: Eddie Bauer
• Belt: Kohls
• Necklace: New York & Company
• Earrings: Local Artist - Farmers Market
• "Voodoo" Shoes: Blink - Bargain Shoe Sale in Dallas, TX

This is what I wore while having lunch with a friend/upcoming bride and then later meeting another photographer friend and getting a tour of his awesome studio! I never got a chance to go home after all that and change. I went straight from work to the studio, then to dinner (Old Chicago pizza and beer) and then straight to a movie after that! My feet were killing me. It was worth it because the best part of that outfit was for sure the shoes! They were an awesome deal I found while visitingTina in Dallas! Rock!

Food Details:

This was a very naughty day. I didn't even bother counting points.I had lunch at a local dive bar called the "River Beach Pub" I ate a chicken finger wrap and fries.Then I had a Newcastle and a Fat Tire beer at the studio after workFor dinner I ate a salad with ranch dressing, and like 4 slices of 'double deckeroni' pepperoni pizza at Old Chicago along with 2 Sam Adams Light beers.Then (OMG, yeah there is more) a diet coke and a box of raisinettes at the movie theatre!!!

Naughty!!

___________

Thanks again, Stacy! You look amazing today!

I was with Stacy when she bought these shoes at the $9.99 shoe store in Dallas (which likes to change it's sign and prices anywhere between $4.99 and $9.99). I really wanted them for myself. They are rockin' just like Stacy, who in addition to being a photographer extraordinaire, is also in a rock band. So these seem like the perfect shoes for her. I'm still jealous, though.

Decorated Like An Easter Egg

What I Wore While Looking Like an Easter Egg:


I've mentioned before that I am not scared of looking like an Easter egg, and today really proves my point. I said something about that to a couple of my female coworkers who protested that I did not look at all like an Easter egg, but not 1/2 hour later a male coworker asked if I was getting ready to leave for an Easter egg hunt. So my point remains... :) I tried to tone it down a little with the black cardi, but once Spring really comes full force, I won't worry about toning it down at all. I've got bright plans for tomorrow too. (Yes, Maria, it's the fuschia pencil skirt!!)

I made this necklace today too. It's a combo of a necklace, some leather, and a brooch.

• lavender tweed skirt (Lane Bryant)
• magenta stripe shortsleeve blouse (Merona/Target)
• black cardigan (Merona/Target)
• teal suede peep-toe pumps (Style&Co.)
• white graffiti belt (via Kohl's)
• purple/silver earrings (?)
• silvertone/turquoise bead stretch bracelet (thrifted, Goodwill)
• white multi-strand necklace (H&M), extended with leather (by me)
• silver tone & grey crystal bow brooch (via Ross)

What I Ate While Looking Like an Easter Egg:

Okay, so this clearly wasn't what I was supposed to eat today. It was another attack of FreeFood-itis. But I worked it into my calories for the day.

Dinner was a spinach salad with feta, turkey bacon, and sliced almonds. And a slice of seeduction. Yummy.

What I Did to Get Sweaty While No One Was Looking:

Since Rand is in Houston, there is no one here to silently (or loudly) judge me for looking like and idiot flailing around the living room. I decided to take this opportunity to dance around to some great music. I decided to watch/follow Amy for my warm up and then to dance on my own. um...I wasn't inspired to do anything on my own for some reason (when usually I dance in my closet getting ready, so it should have been easy.) So I searced YouTube for "dance aerobics" and came upon some weird videos. I didn't have time to be picky. And I still got sweaty.

• Amy's Awesome Living Room Workout - Song: Right Round (awesomeness!!)
• Paul Eugene: Dance Fitness Deep Funk Groove (this was pretty pointless)
• Paul Eugene: Dance Dance Dance Fitness (basic but I got sweaty)

Total for the Day: 1824 calories, 6 glasses of water, 20 minutes of dance aerobics

Textures & Patterns Galore

What I Wore Without a Slip:


I "confessed" to my blog today to some coworkers, which came in handy when I needed one to take my picture later in the day. Rand is in Houston for a job interview, and I'm having to use my blackberry for taking pictures which I can't do by myself. So I had her take my pic at work. I'll be honest, it was a little embarassing.

And I would like to take this opportunity to point out that it is always important to wear a slip when wearing tights and a skirt or dress. As you can see I was having a "climbing" issue b/c I decided it was too warm to wear a slip. Oops. Lesson learned.

• black dress w/ cream circles (Target)
• black tank (NY & Co.)
• green tweed jacket (Lane Bryant)
• black belt (?)
• black patterned tights (Target)
• black kitten heels (Circa Joan & David)
• silver tone ball earrings (Target new stock from Goodwill)
• silver tone & black chain necklace, doubled (thrifted)

What I am Eating For Breakfast & Lunch This Week:

• 2/3 c. Greek Gods non-fat yogurt
• 2.5 oz blackberries
• 1 cup Fiber One
• 1/2 T. ground flax
• 3/4 T. honey

• 2 slices Seeduction bread (Whole Foods)
• 1 oz soft goat cheese w/ italian spices mixed in
• 20 grape tomatoes
• 1 small gala apple

I have a problem. I recognize that it's a proble, but I haven't managed to fully tame it yet. When left alone under circumstances where I would not normally be alone, I have the urge to "sneak" food. Today Rand is not home to watch what I eat for dinner. I was supposed to have a vegetarian taco salad. Instead I went to Taco Bell. And ate peanut butter with chocolate chips, straight from the jar. If I was still living alone I would not have felt the urge to do this. Ugh. I'm scared to count the calories, but let's see what The Daily Plate says the damage is...

Total for the Day: 3034 calories, 7 glasses of water, 20 minutes of Wii Step

Broken Cars and Cameras

I had to take my car to the shop today to get the ignition switch replaced and the doors rekeyed. Yuck. But at least I will be able to start my car again soon! And my vehicle is 8 1/2 years old and this is only the second thing I have ever had done to it (Toyotas are such good cars!!)

What I Wore While Taking My Car to the Shop:

Sorry about the bad pics. I dropped my camera as I was trying to get better ones. And it died. Now I have to go buy a new one.

This jacket was part of a suit that I got 4 years ago when I became a lawyer. Since my thighs rub together (boo!) the pants bit the dust before the jacket. And I've lost weight since then, so the jacket just doesn't get much action any more. I decided I really wanted to try to wear it, but I think maybe it should be removed from my closet. What do you think?

Today Rand really thought my outfit was odd. He said that the T looks weird under the blazer. I was going for a hip suit vibe, and I think it's good, but not great. But since I have a vision of what I want it to look like in my head, I might not be seeing the reality of how the result actually looks. Please let me know your honest opinion or suggestions.

• black/white plaid pants (Newport News)
• green 3/4 sleeve T, unseen (Target)
• yellow graphic short sleeve T (Rainbow)
• grey suit jacket (Lane Bryant)
• grey patent heels (Steve Madden)
• black belt (off some pants from years ago)
• grey purse (Dachs, thrifted from Goodwill last week)
• silver/grey earrings (Target new stock @ Goodwill)
• green bead choker (boutique in New Orleans)

What I Ate From the Office Kitchen:

Someone brought a 2 dozen kolaches in from The Czech Stop in West, TX. YUM! I used to eat those babies when I made drives between Austin and Dallas when I was in college at UT. Add that nostalgia to the fact that (1) I didn't bring breakfast, (2) I didn't bring lunch, and (3) I'm really tempted by free food since my income flow is subject to change at any time, so....you know what happened....

Kolaches x 4 (2 for breakfast, 2 for lunch)
3 somoa girl scout cookies that someone else brought in (my faves!!!)
3 rolos on someones desk (another fave of mine)

...and that brings me to 1396 calories already.

But then I had...HEALTHY HOMEMADE PIZZA!!! Delish!!!

Total for the Day: 2126 calories, 4 glasses of water, no exercise

Saturday Spin

I used to be very addicted to cycling. In fact, my entire family really enjoys the sport. We dubbed ourselves Team Potter, and even had a very active website where we posted ride reports, pictures, etc. During that time I was very fit, but still fat. Here's a picture of me in spandex for you to enjoy. Since then we have given up the website but there is still a blog so that we can get tabs on each other since we don't live in the same states. However, I never have anything to contribute. But I think I will cross post this entry since it is cycling related. My parents will probably weep with joy to know I have been back on a bike. Sadly, it was this type of bike:

Yep, that's right, I went to a spin class on Saturday.


It was a 60 minute class and I am sad to report that it kicked my ass. I made sure to tell the instructor that we (I went with Maria) were new, and he helped us get up. For the first 20 minutes I followed along all the way. The from 20-30 minutes I increased/decreased difficulty as instructed. By then it was clear to me that this was so much harder than riding my bike. And I used to ride 50 miles at one time no problem. Sadly, I am out of shape, and this was just harder. My legs could handle it, but my lungs and heart could not. So from 30-60 minutes of the class, I basically just spinned my wheels at the "easy" pace. I found that the temperature in the room and the lack of a breeze (I'm used to creating my own wind, ha!) really made me lightheaded and nauseous.

I wanted so badly to leave the class, but we both hung in there for the full 60 minutes. After class was over the instructor told us that he was really impressed with us. Apparently most newbies quit within the first 30 minutes. Well that made me feel pretty good.

Week 5 Weigh In & Goals

Starting Weight: 230.5 lbs
Week 1: 226.5 lbs
Week 2: 228.0 lbs
Week 3: 224.5 lbs
Week 4: 225.0 lbs
Week 5: 223.0 lbs
Week 6: 224.0 lbs

Change for the Week: +1.0 lbs

Total Change: -6.5 lbs


Week 6 Goals:

• 1800 calories/day - yes on the weekdays, no on the weekend
• 6 glasses water/day - yes on the weekdays, no on the weekend
• eat at least 1 healthy meal on splurge day - NO
• workout 15 minutes every morning M-F - YES: I did 15 min M-F, and then 1 hr of spin on Saturday

Week 7 Goals:

• 1800 calories/day
• 6 glasses of water/day
• only have 2 splurge meals over the weekend
• 20 min workout during the week x 3, 60 min workout x 1 on the weekend
• find a new curling iron or curlers the correct size for new hair cut
  

Guest Blogger - Stacy

Today we have a very special guest blogger: my sister Stacy! She has been following my blog (to keep me accountable on my food choices) and just yesterday commented that she never wears belts as fashion accessories. So of course she had to give it a try. Plus she's an amazing photographer, so I told her she had to take pics and do a guest post for me. Can you tell that her camera and her camera skills are better than mine? Sheesh. Way to put me to shame, Stacy.

And Now, Here's Stacy....

Outfit details:

• Shirt: Elle - Kohls
• Pants: AB Studio - Kolhs
• Belt: Kohls
• Shoes: Clarks
• Earrings: New York & Company
• Necklace: Bergners

I was so busy trying to take these photos in the morning, I forgot my watch (an everyday accessory for me).I also actually styled my hair and put effort into my makeup, which shamefully I leave the house without doing a lot of days.

Food Details:

I follow the Weight Watchers points system and I can have a total of 29 points/day. Today I am having 25 out of 29 points.

Breakfast - 2 points

• Diet Pepsi
• Yoplait Apple Crisp

Lunch - 6 points

• Hillshire Farms turkey sandwhich on wheat break with lettuce and light mayo
• 2 servings of Pringles BBQ chips
• 1 serving of red grapes

Snack - 3 points

• OR Fat Free Kettle Corn
• 1 serving of Ocean Spray craisins

Dinner - 14 points

• 2 Jennie O Turkey Bugers w/ lettuce, tomato, and light mayo
• 1 serving of apple sauce
• 1 serving of pretzels

Total for the Day: 25 WW points, no exercise

Thanks, Stacy! You look great!! If any of you are interested in checking out Stacy's amazing skills, she has a professional website and has a blog too, Snapshots By Stacy.