News for today's 2018

When Getting a Paycheck Means Taking a Pay Cut

3:48 PM Anonymous 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/sm/ar5b1x66czd0c8x1n4sm.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/sm/ar5b1x66czd0c8x1n4sm.gif" vt="true" /></a></div>From Harvey Mackay, author of "Use Your Head to Get Your Foot in the Door: Job Search Secrets No One Else Will Tell You" All the stars are aligning. You've been offered a great opportunity, maybe even your dream job: the company you've admired, top-notch staff, terrific benefits, ideal location. You've aced the interview, and you know you'd be a perfect fit. What more could you ask for? Maybe that's the wrong question. Maybe you should be asking, what less would you be willing to take? A 2009 CNN Money report says, "With more than three job seekers for every opening, more workers are having to take significant pay cuts to find employment." Many are out of work through no fault of their own and can't afford to wait for the dream job to open. Others discover the jobs they had weren't right for them -- too much responsibility, too many hours, burnout or philosophical differences. Whatever the reason, plenty of qualified people who are looking for jobs have real challenges convincing interviewers that they can work for less and be content. What motivates hiring decisions Shrinking company budgets force managers to get maximum bang for the buck while finding ways to maintain or grow business. Hiring decisions have greater impact when fewer employees must carry the load. A bad hire can be disastrous. Try to explain to a hiring manager that you are interested in taking a job that includes a pay cut and a number of questions pop up: Were you overpaid at your last job? Will you jump ship the minute a more lucrative opportunity is presented? Will you be able to survive on a smaller salary? If you are such a bargain, why hasn't someone else hired you already? Do you have some ulterior motive? Hiring managers look for competent people who are confident in their abilities. Your biggest selling point, surprisingly, isn't your price tag. You have demonstrated that you are flexible, willing to take on a new challenge, bring great experience with you and can't wait to get started. You are prepared to work as hard as you can to advance the company's goals. The interviewer is starting to wonder why any company would have let you slip away. Being up front As an astute candidate, you know that salary negotiations come much later, after you have convinced the interviewer that you are the best candidate for the position. Be honest when you are asked why you are willing to work for less. "I know that the market can't support my previous salary, but I have much to offer and can make a positive contribution to this company's success." "I love my work and I was sorry when my former company eliminated our department. I am willing to prove my commitment by working for free for 60 days." "My company relocated to another state. My wife's job is here, and we chose not to move our family even though it meant giving up my job." "I know that times are tough everywhere, and I am willing to help the company move to profitability knowing that the employee contributions will be rewarded at a later time." Stating your reasons in direct, honest terms will mitigate fears that you are looking for a glorified temp job until something better comes along. Few companies have been exempt from downsizing or budget reductions. Relating that reality to your personal situation can reassure the interviewer that your expectations are reasonable. One cautionary note: Don't apologize for showing interest in a lower-paying job. Your worth can't be measured only in dollars. A pay cut may mean a better job or the path to one. Keep your options open! Mackay's Moral: You can move from survive to thrive. By Harvey Mackay author of the new book "Use Your Head to Get Your Foot in the Door: Job Search Secrets No One Else Will Tell You," as well as the New York Times No. 1 bestsellers "Swim With The Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive" and "Beware the Naked Man Who Offers You His Shirt." Mackay is a nationally syndicated columnist for United Feature Syndicate, whose weekly articles appear in 52 newspapers around the country, including the Chicago Sun Times, Rocky Mountain News, Orange County Register, Minneapolis Star Tribune and Arizona Republic. <a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&username=rockfordlink"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="125" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#username=rockfordlink" type="text/javascript"></script>

When Getting a Paycheck Means Taking a Pay Cut

From Harvey Mackay, author of "Use Your Head to Get Your Foot in the Door: Job Search Secrets No One Else Will Tell You" All the s...

The little train that could

3:46 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfkVUtRTLubXLDPSsrl1tRWBz-xInEKa_3ohjIWyuCiCFYptUmnm23d7c8hQlVcFHNCI8S03qzFjcRU-3cbo38LMz5SwHrw0P_TWBGWTXk1R9MQzCu2DbpdJBv9z94DxWPKtO6pywsdvSj/s1600-h/Weight+March+20_2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfkVUtRTLubXLDPSsrl1tRWBz-xInEKa_3ohjIWyuCiCFYptUmnm23d7c8hQlVcFHNCI8S03qzFjcRU-3cbo38LMz5SwHrw0P_TWBGWTXk1R9MQzCu2DbpdJBv9z94DxWPKtO6pywsdvSj/s320/Weight+March+20_2010.jpg" vt="true" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>I managed to get showered, dressed and drive to my Weight Watchers 11 a.m. meeting today. Even though I still feel stuffed up with a runny nose I wanted to see the results of a week of really trying to stay on plan. I'm one of the unfortunates that when I'm sick I'm more hungry than when I'm not sick. Instead of my usual, "poor me, I'm sick, eat whatever I want" attitude". . I really worked on re-wiring my head this past week (thanks Roxie!). I decided just because I didn't feel good, it didn't mean I had to eat whatever and whenever I wanted. I tried to eat mostly filling foods (the green diamond foods) and cut out as much processed food as possible. For example, no Weight Watchers junk food...ice cream bars, since it seems it's impossible for me to eat just one of any of their products (more on this later). I also ate every three hours and really tried to make every snack a "complete" snack of a protein and a carb. The snacks are never over two Points. Something small, just to take the edge off the hunger. The other thing I did this week that I haven't done in months is that I allowed myself to feel a little hungry. Not the starving to death hunger, but a little bit hungry. I have to accept that it's normal to get hungry between meals. It's not a bad thing, in fact, it means my body is probably digging into its stored fat for energy. It won't kill me to have a few hunger pains. I just need to accept it as part of life. I'm pretty happy about this week's results. It just proves that I still know how to do this, I know what it takes to get to where I want to go. A few tweaks here and there and I'm back on track. My husband reminded me today that we're going to Denver the first part of May for our niece's graduation from college. She completed her Master's in five years which is cause for celebration. All of my husband's family will be there so I really need to get back down below 160 by May 8. As the little train that could said...I think I can, I think I can...

The little train that could

I managed to get showered, dressed and drive to my Weight Watchers 11 a.m. meeting today. Even though I still feel stuffed up with a runny n...

What Jobs in Security Pay

3:45 PM Anonymous 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/ns/ar5b7xm6t0qb3z1cczns.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://emj.icbdr.com/artieimages/ns/ar5b7xm6t0qb3z1cczns.gif" vt="true" /></a></div> To say modern culture is obsessed with security is an understatement. No politician runs for office without assuring voters that security is a top priority. Financial institutions and the government spent the last two years vowing that your money is safe and secure. Local news commercials constantly ask if your children are safe. (How secure is your child's school? Find out at 11.) Walk through an airport and you'll hear an announcement about security concerns every 10 minutes. Yes, we're surrounded by talk of security everywhere we go, but do you ever think about the people who have these jobs that are providing us security in some form or another? With the word "security" floating around all the time, you can become numb to the whole topic. Yet, you probably are secure as you go about your day, which means the people in charge of your safety are doing a good job. To give workers in the security field their fair due, here are 10 jobs in various industries that help keep us safe: 1. Air Force pilots What they do: As part of the armed forces, Air Force pilots have several responsibilities, which range from combat missions to providing support to those in combat to conducting training. What they earn: $122,388* 2. Airport security screeners What they do: Before airline passengers can get to their gates, they and their belongings have to pass through security. Using metal detectors, scanners and other tools, screeners ensure that no dangerous items make it into the airport or onto a plane. What they earn: $54,938 3. Armored car guards What they do: Armored car guards either transport valuable goods (such as currency) or drive people who are transporting valuable goods from one location to another. They keep the passengers and items safe while in transit, preventing any attacks or robberies that could occur. What they earn: $32,955 4. Bouncers What they do: Clubs, bars and concert venues rely on bouncers to check IDs of patrons entering the establishments. They also monitor the crowd throughout the night in order to remove any person who is rowdy or disturbing other patrons. What they earn: $32,532 5. Computer security specialists What they do: Working for an organization, computer security specialists are responsible for identifying and addressing potential security threats. One of their primary responsibilities (and greatest tools against threats) is educating users about dangers and security hazards. What they earn: $46,370 6. Gaming surveillance officers What they do: Working in casinos, gaming surveillance officers monitor customers and employees to ensure that neither are stealing or cheating. What they earn: $31,550 7. Police officers What they do: Police officers keep cities, its neighborhoods and citizens safe. One of their many responsibilities is to respond to emergency calls, ranging from home intrusion to violent crimes. What they earn: $52,810 8. Secret Service special agents What they do: Under the Department of Homeland Security, Secret Service agents protect the president, vice president, their families and other politicians. They also investigate certain fraudulent financial transactions.| What they earn: $50,787** 9. Security and fire alarm systems installers What they do: They install equipment for security systems and fire alarms for organizations and private residences. They also perform maintenance and attend to any wiring needs specifically related to these systems. What they earn: $38,630 10. Security guards What they do: Security guard duties vary depending on place of employment, which includes stores, businesses, office buildings and more. For example, in retail stores, they monitor customers to prevent shoplifting, while at banks they prevent robberies. What they earn: $25,840 *Salary information based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and CBSalary.com. **Secret Service special agents salary based on starting salary, according to the United States Secret Service Web site. By Anthony Balderrama writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/abalderrama. <a class="addthis_button" href="http://addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&username=rockfordlink"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="125" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#username=rockfordlink" type="text/javascript"></script>

What Jobs in Security Pay

To say modern culture is obsessed with security is an understatement. No politician runs for office without assuring voters that security is...

Day 1 in Florida!

6:57 AM Tukiyooo 0

Thursday we made it to Florida by 3pm local time! Can you see the excitement in our faces?!?!? <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxqlOd2CzzkqKTMmjw9sZLLGvDZZzuAnxLdOEwIbCeFsF5RGwXq3hHttc5m8DP1K6LaLtK_xomOEhMexv9_WR0OppnEXrq2m2XD9Lm20iru_lGE5NY-AH6UareMgGIhRwT8Iu9406dbm8O/s1600-h/DSC06445%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06445" border="0" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPEHdxUdI4Bbt_VpfUG7u06shMf_8rhA7wt_jokSLHmbcqxJzD2ZTeQQgwIJkpx8e_STm6Ve2dqs2lX9ATzn9uPDV0TQCaU5DpoJsTwStD9MaJxDSBNVMy-3HbWYQkcyxEQxSXH7gqiKYC/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06445" width="354" /></a>  My little sister, Wendi, picked us up from the airport and we headed to Clearwater Beach! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipirlkX5IH2Q0Bz9aNtPNPeOCFtnc7RAr6x3VF1JepR_GXPYwUI04Lnc_sBlUUt_aKlsdju7y2rCSh2vjyb3F5mhgaQsm3uU6XxtQEfULe3v4qO5Z6n5qg4EhC8pQaLJvWe3lgZnPPaF1b/s1600-h/DSC06451%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06451" border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSe8mHRtgkrxTfB3uo-hyhyphenhyphenSZGHpa4uk2WBmNkPm0RmHtAzvGvaUmotMleSquLEbdKTQtGflRyalzcw9cVo5o74BltiEk-e532JtcPy6Xtts4b-r9BHuW0QuIE96b4l0OSe9TsO2dnssrO/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06451" width="404" /></a>  This place holds a special place in our hearts, Kyle and I spent our first 6 days of married life here…AKA our honeymoon!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2eWWYvKfUFTCHE8oNfjAZ2G9m3mD6U1qegsu1EQ5nGg2_zYCiBcdQiwjzgvKapMNWWORLKx9lnHptEGtHyjOXxHjhFy2AcJUtjy0huOnljKyYFqOoz-Dao_fPsc_NqWN5ReexuuGxKd4e/s1600-h/DSC06467%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06467" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTmsAsf6oPJgrJqs4F-0w5kMnWO4S_KVXdBUA9U5HHCmAoDyTlfcSZ45z22IChxdhJuboVcMtFd-jeSws9yRy0j4rn9L-Q0_LlZSMptHZCp7TomcCpuJe-EmwPJt9IiITxbLoab1I9Qo5/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06467" width="404" /></a> It was windy and only about 60 degrees, which is quite nice compared to Iowa..but I think on the water it makes it much colder! We still wanted to at least get our toes wet!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIjf6PsuUzRG1NiC5nS8BUaJpRSvZ5s6v-UzyXDPPS_AiUjY5LSUan_5l9SFOouH2Ve1ZqzhbHC9LGzbXHe7ISwpQq6Q_y-1BSnZ279oG4b1qmrkX6mXOViJk07W_HYrjcGaRDhMos2Ehc/s1600-h/DSC06455%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06455" border="0" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVK0SK1UURwceGvN3M8rsqEuXtA3JOHTNhwdGI8NJ7uQbNjbWXDXp9vyM44hl2ntwznAkf5MVV3wx1KjlZsk0aLUScXl_FFs8zjWCzWdCRiJ7alUKAbhz-iaiZP2gp4N_1rZsOQrzGlrT/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06455" width="354" /></a>  Kyle says it’s a “little” cold! ;)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnrTomC2c4_yN16gAhWgN9CZwUjTx7-nZAslP7NB47TirUei1E6P8iZSrWSsZ8dfi0j1tT-iQA1vesJoFOm3QgO8F2EKpwfVolPdgJzkISf1TA37UWLs722XfkmamNm2GI2UotSc52ewD3/s1600-h/DSC06457%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06457" border="0" height="558" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtK8_ZFkpVRlJu9xxDaevPmN1FgmAod62a2dEfeBtgC12k_8kBifks8LfUdYgZqfckqNpviCckV_l8CtLaSDijJXNVkTaaE5Ztp18yNfgkBZZBXfAiQpoxledTouVWkafGk6pgcxLqhamc/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06457" width="299" /></a>      Defiantly brought back LOTS of memories being in our honeymoon spot…it’s been almost 5 years! I sure do love this guy!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj12WkIi__oUTRdza6ioJb8wM1UGg7zr_MxEzki-nhGLSJMZSirRIVADOrtbe9K9IWHqKFw9QH1uZa_v9TBNBAxsiBt3Uo3ekva1WF44TPDayr90yXB07cgkI7CQUhTS5sJ5dpNKQGaVEZL/s1600-h/DSC06463%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06463" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0qlS75F281G3ADOBbpnHek8nSzeYjgsOGRUff-hsR598lOHLUWY3et0zngB7goiQ2FX7L4ADVe7B-NKTekHrWNPaXu5YCv6boYe7BJyfwl2aZGAJbQDH3DE8O_MJkZ5FuktNA6ak26Vt/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06463" width="404" /></a>  After getting out feet wet we walked around for a little bit. This guy was doing some street entertainment…he was actually really quite good!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfxO88A5eVi39MyRFgV2hqF1qB56WajFMvjbdqu3RPRLGiQPrLE-jvHZXpBhOJ-HIuW0Lq6CHHEa2yeuNS3K2cBzmaVLyUYpftHaMfWnB0aJtPLadKZ_-wiE2yU1QESEYi5ahzotK6rvc8/s1600-h/DSC06465%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06465" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieKlZ_W-wbEFMVNok_ywCCjOz5dRXhrX5O4CmhcJ1bP66_CfJikrqLCO6pxRkHAgTpwqVwpONGlTUj3eMwzNJjg0FUSJXvsS2OGU3Eb_dkJj7PFrpOqRg3s31lVQwzVdxtPd5Ve3xMEWt0/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06465" width="404" /></a>    We walked down Pier 60! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoRSbHI6nlPjZGHzAb3HGREjPQdveuLy2GJyDC-zCl1v3ZRBdeUyEitlcZxzK-YUxODmZsus9a_pPaPI4xR-4Hs3wI2OHYQBgFhNRjAsCSwNQ_IAyoSigYaaN1YWIACfbgACCgMZVcBH0/s1600-h/DSC06470%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06470" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrR6DlUGVEDumFyq7glyoLpOJtXys6Ikibg4hBbpE0JSngO5xsihL8qZaz7na0d-yKnwgTlVzQSatjn1zkKFkRs9KwVR3MibSJ1CHOkRLrhDWqzduVkdHkM1soUW-hMUadseltzAcEt17_/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06470" width="404" /></a>  Live statue! He was funny…a kid walked up to him and then he moved and it scared the kid! I’m sure I would have jumped too!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZfGk9L9cpqy_EHiTM1ja5tY2AgyrL-e91Ld0Qi68UbJYRDF2kOKoHDX56lkjO41ZhXuEZAZf5jMn3CfmbJEQtCy3dG6-nm7ChOcHlDBjCOPEwhjCiEsXHjUc_K3oSCK7i_Q9KSkdTVKw5/s1600-h/DSC06471%5B8%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06471" border="0" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIGCDdV63dFC8KGEtn0xcAEoBfu9L3Phs4WKuAbK9gJx_Y9MN2NU_ol-pFuOPNZA6-KyhkuBBPYz-jpHY0BKynD_zbxe9wl48R0uxcvtSvgSNBM0Bc5H4x5Avk0nYxDptgz_bIDfgwU-f/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06471" width="304" /></a>  We walked down and shopped in all the fun little souvenir shops! Ever seen “tubeflops” before? lol<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbiz47Ct5bTEANxs99qMXR31tlCQy7U30UbvZqQW9wGsM3fx2xUgVzf484wcrkhCX9nIlfL-obGvsxtzdWuhGWpHP5bOPqLYWTnBQvNRo2f3aCW0yMEPr0Qys8RQ5z_hpYbfYDOekT0Qc/s1600-h/DSC06473%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06473" border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7nQUgKvHxlp6uqUlD1BxZ9XMmsfCSHw997kDoI-VQA3PegIIm1Av5Xn4wPxBUAxa3-X7tjyalhzOHIqIl6Ee_F5w7fyTJN0aBtyEwgHyQHs5p7cjKOYUNcDEqNVHggnRO4z0Rs1BilQQ/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06473" width="304" /></a>  Ha ha, not sure they are quite my style!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrnrSgcB3cwS8eQej8MZ4Ihcyw7G1Ee5RzaTdaqGhtFm4Bo16mldjYwOnnU6zfLXpIUSIfl-3NGKVZXGruJHclYgyKP0vq371ftfVEaLmeXgmo7QPbxqv7583Sx5JIqd8iwhn0VSuxfrdt/s1600-h/DSC06474%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06474" border="0" height="505" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj81L5QDVYFOotybkaMj8bjzZmbL3TlVcvS0IaWoOYAa8f8dqEo4MLs7M1eM135Lzalgi9V8smAJwUIpU4z0O5GPsJ9uloxhI0CoZm__O5zxxk8C_JXurAf0gQiXX91tuK_naPscgjd9psB/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06474" width="330" /></a>  After Clearwater we drove through Tampa and stopped at a Fro-Yo place…berryism!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7hDatktJIn2g8I7800AloQOruQAU6NPfwRPg7nIt3N3Wps28nkgwMwTc3_JCdzgPkBtfltViFXp2cRXjT6gvtGgLLrCJnEUVKhEeLksDBnmJpJfhGIH4qATpqwntapFJufHK1-J54GnP/s1600-h/DSC06475%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06475" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaepqurQm0DP7KCu2lAOQ6IvqAIbCf1Veildi9b04kFYQUa8tV_yVMuOhqbfve97i8nNpAqx1HjI9MLGr17vOKc0HUiTg05aLxjdPXcZQ0yzwS7xgbyPIruozqUaNJXUBBOSFKWlMzxVkw/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06475" width="404" /></a>  Happiness in a cap is right!! :)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGh7UpYYwDa7Oc00i0PmgDcqizJbba95e7qNAi8CJKxwxAJsknQa7SBNSyzAxD9D-T-bxOyIBMHVdV-zzpXjI2tEZ3u6QOS1FxKBgCFMtEAciKq_vZuhhHt1_KGqJEwLPm7WLyoi1PfSc/s1600-h/DSC06476%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06476" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKTDQ4h2i7fF9kS0dF2IbIuOB3MAVLPAsYPcf71vX2ajUsFVuaM9c2yHQspnk8MaFx8br8IGp6a0E8_GAYxtMdLT8wJRSE4JO1YMv5Hr-iAjxKJUyqRmhswb1l-98XVmTe5MSjpk7y_BLq/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06476" width="404" /></a>  I got peanut butter chocolate fro-yo and topped it with green M&Ms , mini chocolate chips, Oreo pieces, and green & white sprinkles! MMMMmmm good!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAuppmSTlWPuy2hGoUBBHjxTWZuC1EaBDB6_Os3SjOGTY8etg7Ey9rM2N5PFK3A8P_6ges9fL8hRNF7cGd34kfQibQQniRqG9t-fTxBeGZHWVbAoY__C7YNovXvx1mXf-QqxTk_LCSNsE/s1600-h/DSC06478%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06478" border="0" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6q9U4f-hHOXxUPVC-nocto6o02v_-pZU58PwXIhXTeFF4STXXB6OwX7sCcwUrHjM3YPXiwNODeJOoBmM7GBaUE9a7wux0jf408yhTUilUHQxSzN1DE_NpF7dzoOtOkMJ6khSH6qHRWRRd/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06478" width="354" /></a>  Wendi loved it too!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKDhKVAFTtG6wEtO1h7klI0F-ypQklIebH_xAmbMxSSh0PVd41AO4QrzBw1ISKz-53RPMUD5B1355agBJ0dgq1rSfj16_oIlpb_OmCAJiEltYvXZac0XDQzU7rBa8zWy9lV7NYZr2zyz0/s1600-h/DSC06479%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06479" border="0" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72svz5TFmkeEyFAnzXOFN1xf5keS7B4d538pwzNqx0VzfIm8Art-CNXQW4Et4ag3ZzrrINH1LMX3EUXKCDpMyRckWfj0Pq-t5SD1iRBThBR4_Gshw4xuCoP_q7XpIDEl7cEvn28MqBQFU/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06479" width="354" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcfqLBTGVycq-4WfHN_M3IhxM_jiECWLl3uiULpf3x2sohiVameDjuLhFRejjWSxWFthns2a-i9jnxWopfRtqXV-7HrGDu-7NqBbUdrHbc9WNjZCKcxq-GNnVTnAGhnEGCuYSseSUQ6H0g/s1600-h/DSC06480%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06480" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCu6fFhQZ2BT7Ydgn1BiPBscgge-tN7jz-cOzudQ9ZBacNp2FtV1hTbKaWM3Vu87dKa0TQ7RloLtF4_LiBovyN3YA4PuhK469k3TordCYWtx1S9UHTvtQQ_9d-yQOk7QWXx8uqqXMce68R/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06480" width="404" /></a>  After our Fro-Yo stop Wendi drove us around Tampa. We say the Bay and LOTS of SUPER nice houses. Then she remembered her friend of hers told her about Derek Jeter building a house on Davis Island in Tampa. So I looked it up on my phone and we drove by it….all 30,800 sq ft!! Sheesh!! It was so big I couldn’t get it all in the shot! Kyle made it though! ;)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFh_Rb04yLeA6DjA2o5DGY8igJe4YEXKIOP3350NH8bhYQ62UNOfrgVSe6HVJskLRc876s4Fs4FTE58vcMbl8JrJPPUUULlvpWutlxbvfxrK2BhSgiERvKh7RIn3O47M33nNAAZhOMrZEj/s1600-h/DSC06482%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06482" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgelyZPXq-hR8aQPUrsEPRGR4xlunETBckTsPMqz7C7MGI8teRIY5JOK2ZRArpCz7dH1GV4ZZrbhky-Cm9M3e4lnpATEs7O-kObv316kJ5U8HL4hGYxGIkXYSmhRJiuluvV63lrCh4oj66l/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06482" width="404" /></a> Here is a picture I found on the internet…this place is HUGE!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbgPBqQHiIgUKcSbKjUK89mScZIygQTVre6hM7J2Tf7QK11BdgO0jJbHk5ELGGG-91wtbPDPJRp5LFY_c2OTWKKjtZ6GrYKE4P-3QsLB_M-x7LFwQKEAVCchg3p7HSBkWiTUVDpoDW_P7/s1600-h/6830_derek-jeter-aerial%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="6830_derek-jeter-aerial" border="0" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCZvCrV5e6CYUTHUGDJtzYf9H-d3zy3fNuwIws93Y_lLhddTTujC-NCFCvCir6GuY1ma3HmD3IEv77mGZHuerf5z79KTdhyNQk8Brji8mEG9FxvCWxNfvDDhYdyzEzOmZCuKV-bneq214X/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="6830_derek-jeter-aerial" width="404" /></a>  Wendi drove us through downtown and we saw where Kyle and I will be boarding our cruise ship for our November “Thanksgiving cruise”!!! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJrD09WSkDfVwJWfNF89UXlxu3tjOqxB_joTAkIgpikE-_1bEYSuRlGz33bqqXDruuKl_yDVrBwVWYoHl5nZ1Sj0TiixKe1p5jABTTedlUzpuBzf9418i7VoNvA9gK64QPfqC79QV-ULMG/s1600-h/DSC06489%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06489" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheK7xljo5oVa_qU485DofeJn4iXxHYXXwVWBBPnH6ibBKRqz2eHHV6DO0Gfxz9ILGexlGUKGjH2X-aEOMqAnxAGO9-QYBaqyZNMr5uYj0b6wNBNPwtdL9JgTD06AFAcWI3B7O7Cr8P3eXn/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06489" width="404" /></a>    We headed back to Lakeland and went out to eat at Olive Garden. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6puynuwnMJ7zoLuBtxtrdRO4b0B2YowbYlwxoYgLMth11Bmr3LFxTcckCvEjs2Ul7TNfp3kci1wASfCdc4fkYKepcqL1Mknf1u-I6jFgH6dCR7pitZ26rVEre2vJ_QqJikmY0Wz8fx5s4/s1600-h/DSC06490%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06490" border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3PVx9MyWD5jVxXS_-bHvrFnpFgms_xJoxwq0a500gOrLN4kWi5pc_8ec7mKtnGEiu9YFtycAkUGJIfA7lxj18Q3pYTu6kvA5YARcquArEuHhW3Z0j_2pyLK60Iz-hGFItPst2GxCciqFY/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06490" width="404" /></a>  It was extra fun because this is where Wendi spends about 30+ hours/week…AKA her job! ;)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5cFzoYzlVXFWzCSjhzMgejgl0mFpXihRuH_ehwI1TxcsxH1ieor1yhKoP3oaAJHp3AxppOCgCXp0ZcQxf8ln_gHa42eVrDmy2G83F9iZWxFZ66ZpxVjtphy5X9oLw7bxxliSTijufcwTn/s1600-h/DSC06491%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06491" border="0" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzHfTFJ5IsDgDEjqyvMpjKCrBQzj4PA6MOMriMzFn-5c43ppUF7tGsykZF2z3LeYqVLoLBaPCbrnH1gfnTpWt51zdMkJ6ghzIn1aH5QACSxieWyLD-l71nQwy6fNRp3JyWyTliVvLUwjBj/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06491" width="354" /></a>  I tried the free sample of wine. I’m not much of a wine-o, but I did like this, it was called Moscato. It was a sweet wine. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvk4ew_Y_mc7GR2liwi1lgBJ4wCHudioDOOK7uReiGVqe89vzLsm04uG_Q0GgiVTCqfrlIIQEBhlhdGEdwqZ7jhUeYH32SVi7mwNfuFfI0uQfNmofrHNb9u7l5O7h-SxWpxjH54kWYBmEv/s1600-h/DSC06493%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06493" border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicWR7vJ3xiC2nnnYCnCDPJirVCmxn44dgX6i6b4di1JVzpoP6AoGuaLi2Ju0WFKMolu6kw9Gs6wBqxAJS-6FcUvpI6X9KkaHlKN0p5rFezAQGMIn7dzYzrdW3Nfywf510BDQu-QXoIPoUw/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06493" width="304" /></a>   Wendi knew just the appetizer, Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta - Oven-baked smoked mozzarella, provolone, parmesan and romano cheese. Served with Tuscan bread. I just think it’s fun to say fonduta! ;)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7jddLtw-pWLkRkTm-3s6g0APSByqf5PtTTmsUZ6TJ49NY1xTOEfPtvzrmBbYxaeh0iULOm0wq14BYUwRn9liMiPOp4SI4JEvdeA7skdP8Q5dupJUHIQdN4kEXxSqsjNun_ylRnfeUpk8/s1600-h/DSC06496%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06496" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6tADt7O40fgWJaDAAPpvYT5Orn0MFcBGEDaCv8Mp7gjPnyPZY3US4iHQidXtFaF4j_MBs7uHen0i0GCWGWJH1H8UrD_1Qh1tGpI40iKRrBCEqWQABnnaN5KMk0WI9tDhHdP_wwnCy1WPA/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06496" width="404" /></a>  Kyle and Wendi both got salad, but I opted for soup. I got Chicken & Gnocchi which is a creamy soup with chicken and dumplings. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Y5luqCH6_4VTBNy4HhuUmcRjeI4FnD6PJJUbtxUPDFXatybRRllQ6D_PFwPqQehN42ZBfT0gDsKC9TyQupLfcYAfXi7NFnzJPqDa7uhxc6NgiR-_hODczE2gDWAkTu3S55-uUxZsJPyt/s1600-h/DSC06497%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06497" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHp8HReHpIblWbiPva-ES2q90aYj2Jbv5xRZuL6EuZsDBqet9azHL4uxWujVi0HGoogqZVWVqHlihz6Gw1ejY-kKo3ldAr20Vn4dHbJ_PeHnN64RKpkktfj46Pf_mdwoyjEA03Nm-gWR0E/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06497" width="404" /></a>  By this time I was about FULL! But we still had our entrees coming! I ordered the Tour of Italy! A little bit of everything. Homemade lasagna, lightly breaded chicken parmesan and creamy fettuccine alfredo. The majority of this ended up in a to-go box! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha7O46RNR9Yq6JElpRAU7cIzBkoREfGYAAXUeE-0xE2MSEZjYMkDsyuckV9tbEUOCCVdna1IPp1QST09cY1TR-L2XYtad71FCu-qT92aLoq6GCy57tODDqyS5Kp-9Wh2_8zaJn-2_1pfZD/s1600-h/DSC06498%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06498" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg22DqhL7-_jDUHZ1qAJzttsT_PDNa-gedwEyld2To2GROJ8lrrnUfhmG1D-A6bttbt4XPCdzV0BcVjmK3Zucazf77tR4dh_AAlwvHFTSuvbPB8-5aMhTekhV3M_mWKms1FfN6L-phZm58v/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06498" width="404" /></a> Everything was SUPER good and it was fun that Wendi had the “DL” on everything!! And the other bonus is that we got a discount too!! After our late supper we went back to Wendi’s apartment, chatted a bit, and hit the hay! It was a long, but fun first day in Florida! note: you can obviously tell from all these food pictures I’m not staying OP while I’m down here. But I do plan on getting some running in. I’m not going to stress over the food. I’m going to enjoy myself while I”m here and get right back to work when I get home. Oh and I didn’t win the sister challenge before I left. I was stuck around 161 all week. Once again, not going to let it get me down. Later friends! :)

Day 1 in Florida!

Thursday we made it to Florida by 3pm local time! Can you see the excitement in our faces?!?!? My little sister, Wendi, picked us up fro...

Still under the weather

8:41 PM Tukiyooo 0

I still have my cold, but it's just a cold. It's not like I'm going to die from it or anything. I did manage to sit upright for a couple hours today. I'm feeling better but not great. Two days in a row not exercising. That seems very strange. In order to combat my never-ending hunger I made a feeding schedule for myself today (I know, babies and old people). I allowed myself to eat something every three and a half hours. At least I knew I had a snack in my future so it helped me calm down a little about being so hungry. Then I fell asleep at 1pm and slept until 7pm so kind of messed up my schedule. Since I didn't exercise or barely move yesterday or today I had to keep my Points down to the bare minimum of 21 the last couple days. Which really sucked big time because that's not very much food. I managed to read a few blogs earlier. I really love Bitch Cakes:Neurotic Glamour Girl's Weight Watchers Experience and Fitness Adventures. I enjoy her writing, especially her enthusiasm for life and her very unique style. You have to read her Tuesday's <a href="http://msbitchcakes.blogspot.com/2010/03/confessions-from-and-recovery-from.html" target="blank">post</a>, recovering from a binge. She  has a great attitude and we could all learn from it.

Still under the weather

I still have my cold, but it's just a cold. It's not like I'm going to die from it or anything. I did manage to sit upright for ...

Feed a cold, feed a fever

4:55 PM Tukiyooo 0

Feed a cold, feed a fever

I've started about five posts today and deleted every single one of them. I have a cold. My nose is like a faucet that I can't turn ...

And I’m off!!!

8:49 AM Tukiyooo 0

Wednesday morning I hopped right out of bed. It's so much easier knowing you only have a 4 1/2 day ahead of you! Oh and I made sure to wear my green! I don't own very much green, in fact this is 60% of my green wardrobe/accessories!! I need to get some more green!! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig8iV7rgfV5ihjbY6XHeoIUMHMddDlVPzOA94Q93l2tfjnBzn8KRmd2EFufqHxZIKop93YnCsLWa1zJvmiaCwmeLSkZFGnEHa8RxLH__nTsv671YmCMoH5GyPa_InAIVkAKIRjTCZpNhBD/s1600-h/DSC06420%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06420" border="0" height="461" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBv2sv0JDmfJTEybFoxcX9hLruMVj2R-agms0I8ycXlnyUjJPY5yDFBUZ2DCiPbTWCCwieeoe-PQg9CP2BLGvmq_a2CafvsTVuxLVbWv2Q52GAMJc5qpjGaJOb8OabhMtyEFRzPe9H_7_n/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06420" width="361" /></a> Wednesday was a good day! I ate some food:<img alt="DSC06413" border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWX_8HFDHkyfyOmPekvrRm8rdKuhN0HJSqgQ9B5ODLJg-h76160L4aZs9R4gytCokhU2tjYM348OCJSOf9TKgYGYhYyvPr3suLdVCt2E3FtK1z7IvISyyJRh2lrcxdAPlS1x29ovw0IxVj/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC06413" width="264" /><img alt="DSC06414" border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-ftNTE9NQndt37Ry3HnH688UV3OT2CJEY9lMDSVb1CMDTnCm_9N-36khQElabZ-n-KNGpHzlnQjDwPrgksfp2sd_QaQKw0IlT3IsR1GC77dVBZbFJOPZYOrXIIITGm-kZZhDoz7TuojJ/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC06414" width="264" /><img alt="DSC06416" border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq5WIyRlqOkO-bBMYYDBlfD7sRZ2xJRwWcjK4kFqWFX_26xxqFNrAWcAdJwuVHtZfE3OAqE3RLrAWTCXcfrXEm7gzwO2G534Nnh0l2b3CKO5ZzTEW9FItAwgvM5EAMqCXLBmE6_p0F1hYW/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC06416" width="264" /><img alt="DSC06418" border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0F0Nkg0kMYkXnHEqHJuyPlc3ltgf1EeHW5LBxLpiHCKegDJ42MHaUwYNLpDGkULm_KBj2DB04PuzNEqE1mAX4qmZTOAmvpN-JkbYplqenHnWK4C00ZRu0OKPwn_Og5m0LdbvnpChFQWTA/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC06418" width="264" /><img alt="DSC06428" border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5gfUpGRFt06AhW3UIt1C3sIUyhHE2hR6HI28EkifmiIvBUEWtFHvMlGaZ90I4jNRpl4rOlk7GaxalJYtsMhGSW1TePNNEPIfViNG42MvNDBBbqD1EKmSuKfoZ7rfkxJz_S_0BQNvJ4rwE/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC06428" width="264" /> I only worked 1/2 day! Gave myself a pedi!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKMLYi2ovl1qAzOgOEZB0B7tdPn7p5EBnWK-BgUAkepvZ8nA4YU0z0aYBDzXEqfeHNIYEpBq-JBK1zLtWiG8bVMWNsWnG8DyvtErniDjFkal4rNQ80eyZt9_KUvHEv6T3NqGLS7DF5tM-G/s1600-h/DSC06424%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06424" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdSBjEixkF_eooUXECMbN_gjThad1X8J_CnRVWIfrB5jE7VziywRW-FPZgntgUahDaORM_XRuIh9Gb-Z4NRLPECJ5rmkqTirL-ZgnfUu4dB3lx-NclJEdMH41I_EKtgtWuC5IltYTh0xg/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06424" width="404" /></a> And packed my bags for Florida!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Lu5Ekwh7zRBXJnrCv54uMGClcywUguT8ev_DbAgNzcENhvAZuQw_3JAs4CKSw7SXJoQKhPeyOhGc7w1ZK2cKh9IVeIPoUUUccMLuqOicNohM8jHgrh3hayCYXGyXcEpqXXoZGVTFPa6n/s1600-h/DSC06423%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06423" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Up1yeD5VCimU92C6eLUgGxN3MPxv7UBArQGwCbr6p1jnOUQcrsjnr4IogG_Y86ZH-vdS4fxZSFxlovbb8RmKTvi4mzuMxo9bExnv78oyhyK6sLw9p2SAM07JIMuCYdIYCfCkJgpuJDvs/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06423" width="404" /></a> After my afternoon of packing & pampering, Kyle and I headed to a friends house for pizza & green beer! It was a fun night! This is my friend’s little boy…he is SUPER smiley!<img alt="DSC06425" border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgodm1mUJqti9cD8WX5zRPrM4m56TeLb315pBr7nkiptD0VGrK5NbFkGiw4FuYKSEOpHzD32jFl96ol242tkACoWdH-ZFo3G35UFfXoXWFYeHxtJjaVfQDZRPllf1iWIs3_WOcHN8FsAfw7/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC06425" width="262" /> I made a special St Patty’s day treat!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBdG_MYheCmOxeK1AHKmWt3BCV2BvI5zaWMUsoC0OSml7oUkSP7cYHZpvDxE9ku3PBuUECAb2rxNhKiyD2a4obL-W3enSaE3rRPiMJNuJz5xIsT-4wA52FFyz_18lqwIDvIpjV_9AAuKn/s1600-h/DSC06430%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06430" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr2QQa2d3o689CjQmRxoxIqRgFBDpaETAiUCs6ynfnqAHa6xXVQFxLZ_bFcqZLnlAotMK51L-jdGy007fCVLe3tIhFl4un3H1roNHr2LoyY8P9wqcGg6rBgNfMT1L4yvkm3evOVA_Pc6CQ/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06430" width="404" /></a> And we totally rocked out! ;)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQnotetgCLHZhWiJCefv8JeY3FQfZ-Q50ZiKpucoUal0FKe2iImopVUAFsMpTt7AdolBBdtDuHYJa-OdI6qqSLJpuGqlwc70YgmKlL_5ccPWNKaCMUxFNEwgwxHnVOmStfu-Rn9SqehDxs/s1600-h/DSC06442%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06442" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIZK-plJhugLHs3RLSb9C0h2XF075-PDIp6HcNviJX0Kr-QXLZETZEFOxkBs6rWQfxlpEBCct1VagkG0VvFa_LXo8aXEERs93W8C6NRL4ixGlxURcowTf3hN3No57CKK7Ji2fN9M220p-u/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06442" width="404" /></a> So unless this is the first post you've ever read of mine, you know that I'm headed to Florida tomorrow so I won't be posting much, if anything at all. :( Sad, I know...but I don't want you guys to forget about me! I've lined up a few special "guest posts" from a few people that are VERY SPECIAL to me that I know you'll love and will inspire you! I’m typing this from the airport…only 20 minutes till we board!! And check out my super husband!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxsJfgcmjP7oQkZosD8ZKOUtI4NKod-nlEMQ7Fa3F2OGLx4iIZ6n-09u8pcs_Lc4sKsXQaKDSo81yTcv1qttxjvGfUFROdBCZhCl1cLVVZ3xUv47aKyEz0o2EmCaDhpgyCi9tuI3AAKjtW/s1600-h/DSC06443%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06443" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwqNgmo4gEzMXBjO6owvqDqiiSbUSpnHuy5jhEdmdzt_WCbzbhbDoLjW9W5JbaQaYLGwoZmHZTo1guuR6UuHFcCtrJFVRYUYDR-AAeIFA-rXsha2vGjQjQ7gmbq-Q_smuyXnGEMifJl7-/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06443" width="354" /></a>    Hope everyone has a GREAT week…I know I sure will!

And I’m off!!!

Wednesday morning I hopped right out of bed. It's so much easier knowing you only have a 4 1/2 day ahead of you! Oh and I made sure to w...

Eight hours

12:47 PM Tukiyooo 0

I simply can't believe the difference eight hours of sleep a night, every night, is making in my life. Why didn't I do this thirty years ago? For as long as I can remember I've been a night person, and stayed up as late as possible. Every morning was torture for me as I'd drag myself out of bed, feeling more tired than when I'd gone to bed five, four and sometimes even three hours earlier. In the last two years I've been a night AND a morning person, going to bed at 11pm or midnight or even 1am and getting up at 4:30-5am to hit the gym, almost every week day. Weekends I'd try to "catch up" on sleep. Just for the record, you can't catch up on sleep. It's something you need on a daily basis. I've literally been walking around in a sleep-deprived state for years. It's a wonder I've even been able to function. It feels so good not being in a physical and mental fog all the time. The best side effect of eight hours of sleep is how I feel about food. It's not that I don't get hungry, because I certainly get hunger pains and sometimes even get that feeling of "if I don't eat right now I'm going to perish off this earth from starvation". The difference is that I feel mentally stronger to fight the compulsion to overeat. I feel like I actually have some control over what I put in my mouth. My mind is stronger, and I can reason with myself. Who knew? The only downside of sleeping eight hours every night is there aren't as many hours left to read blogs. I'm falling behind, and I'm not commenting as much these days. That bothers me. I love my readers' comments. They lift me, encourage me, and make me feel like I'm not in this alone. I want to return the favor. Somehow I need to find more hours in the day. Any suggestions?

Eight hours

I simply can't believe the difference eight hours of sleep a night, every night, is making in my life. Why didn't I do this thirty y...

tuesday = thursday

8:09 PM Tukiyooo 0

Happy "Thursday" everyone...oh wait, it was only "Thursday" at work for me! Sorry guys! ;) Tomorrow is my Friday...if you haven't noticed, I'm excited for my little upcoming vaca! Only a 1/2 day of work left!!! Since I ate light last night I was pretty hungry this morning, which I figured I would be! I snacked on a serving of girl scout cookies while getting ready for 2 points. Since that was a pretty light breakfast I got my morning snack out a little early. Today I mixed in 1/2 a sample box of Fiber One Honey Clusters. The honey clusters were MUCH smaller than what they made it look like on the box, but still was a nice added crunch that I like with my yogurt/strawberry combo. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolqGhXrLMFsx7R1udomf_XETeqpeIQxV1GL8wNb3Le91RAC5vbkHWev8U2LgHNrrWfJzmleDx9oJNODSUbwbmWv9u6yMnFH6Yju5RuCey2o0WfYZzdSrCuMPa9g9K_vchQA43u2OIA85E/s1600-h/DSC06404%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06404" border="0" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPzFjLn_LrZNM-lgoYL8wnOs01KLFbMGKqzigfyibCdDD7WfMl9M8SclfknUVtsQAKKYP_B4-Usk06rGu3mAI0yGlisO7rPAHpEPXZjbd667lS0nJU428qpNhxMCOe2KA2FfIdyzMutSU/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06404" width="354" /></a> The total mix of vanilla yogurt, 1 c strawberries, and 1/2 sample box of Fiber One was 3 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd3FF8YX3mKBwtvp9oMqimw5NooC5yOkAkRQlZAObLzauipQ35ofT5p6dDjkUFfacmCdqwwc5grspKJorlBQbQXisSI_tZz9jZ645ljsQQk__ccHOnE_FZoQiJnL1eEAMfPaNKKOlvrn-7/s1600-h/DSC06405_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06405_thumb" border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFIG9-wFp-cNb4zqTpf5y1MtL5QzyI75pTUMZYeRLsVUg6jqueKpXmwhQ6-uBb7R7MAtRc_0RMJjFMVAalDUQE9Ft3SJjoWPpDLZHwh7MfpVUT5nzCRKWiPiTtxFeu5LiKBuLhe5B750wa/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06405_thumb" width="404" /></a>   I was still feeling “snacky” so I grabbed some grapes from my fridge for 1 point. Mmm love the crispness!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAXhLv2IC_MpICcuj7w5zYRh1I-sdki5Fg_Zbc7uTjB3GX1PuQdw20l2qFfCmxnIX9d5Hwsqz988EBWcz-hQppasR8JsbHbdLeTk_aB7ehGECNehT1qyGleaBb47D0yXMXKhOlGCdaEEfq/s1600-h/DSC06407%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06407" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivg84_BhDa4hAHuwN09XEBfMiuYOQclH4SzYrkX9vLOkv8OLexqKNsAbDnMppERJe8Nq0TqJTeKdPcw1kooPOdcl-LT6Hfud0cf2QlzxYcNBEQ_XnVqOSDsIGTGb2MymSaKzv2qWgOypbZ/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06407" width="404" /></a>  I didn’t go to lunch until later than normal so I had another serving of girl scout cookies for 2 points. I made a quick stop at the bank and then headed home to make my lunch. I made a broccoli & cheese baked potato for 3 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoNCVy98Z0ZdFaGrNnjjZxsGHRJIfDMVQ8z7HIKnSPQzkL76vYLX04ULE9etrWqPVacMSxQuPW9a-1MyXzq_Z6rHvjFrnAbvU0Q6QOMwSNkVlRZlKgAUtLOwWpSsjjC2RFT7VGi1m8AtYW/s1600-h/DSC06408%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06408" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvMuzQtMtNbNXB9dLaOMWRG7VEpfAxqFRRN28DbgdLN1xS9mswy2mKDkmE5y6sGfC_zlY3T6lYnyQnpWWEsyQR6O20cpPQDpiP23z5f__mQVuDev-S8yBpyJiAcsyUoePWrdRMPrsI4-7/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06408" width="404" /></a>  Since I took a late lunch I only had 2 hours left of my afternoon and it FLEW!! :) We had a fun filled family evening planned! Kyle’s sister and brother came over for subs and a movie! Kyle & his brother picked everyone up $5 footlongs. I only ate half & saved the other half for lunch tomorrow. My plate was filled with a 6 inch turkey &  ham on wheat, fresh sliced pineapple, and a serving of sun chips for 9 points. And I ate another serving of chips during the movie for another 3 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEkFcuxshJvRNSG7QTLdeNSglh0t7JeO7IBujP2c3Zr3GFJ9R0zmKrWp-4HfimXjqhMNlToTHK-f6_iyar2L8UyxF7vikwMm94C84sqA5jvskmhSk10j7KuxmmbTXTYC-ojn3eBAp_gb5q/s1600-h/DSC06409%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06409" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCUawP-Ylyjeavr1X7obPuDZRVuM8ps7yEyWRnD5tZIFOJEvHVHpqap7jld8IQKKuiog5zh4qyJnwBi8Eutcml9lGVCRaCJb205joJ4gf0CBeUdcrkKCeAlHIuYdFsprzW1vvK4bm8r9Fg/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06409" width="404" /></a> Thanks for the ideas for Florida everyone! Obviously we are going to be basking in the sun on the beach and SHOPPING! I go to see my Grandpa every year for spring break so I’ve pretty much done all the tourist-y things! Kyle wants to go deep sea fishing. I’m looking forward to some relaxation and time with my family! TUESDAY’S STATS POINTS = 23/23 WATER =  52 oz EXERCISE = none

tuesday = thursday

Happy " Thursday " everyone...oh wait, it was only "Thursday" at work for me! Sorry guys! ;) Tomorrow is my Friday...if ...

Putting the binge monster to sleep

4:45 AM Tukiyooo 0

I haven't had a binge for five nights in a row. The solution, which many of you suggested, was so simple that I can hardly believe it worked. I've changed a few things, but the one thing I think is the key is I'm in bed and asleep by 8:30 to 9pm every night. I know that sounds insane because it's so early, but it works, and I feel about a hundred times better. I think it's a combination of getting eight hours of sleep that makes me emotionally stronger, and the mere fact that I'm asleep during my peak eating hours. I thought this wouldn't matter, and I'd just choose some other time of day to stuff my face, but I don't. In fact, it's actually changed how I look at food. I feel like I'm in control of my food, not that my food is in control of me. A few other changes recently that are helping, in addition to the sleep: 1. Water - I'm back to guzzling the water. Sure, it's inconvenient, more trips to the kitchen at work for water and more trips to the bathroom, but it's my health and that's a priority. 2. Healthy oils - I'm getting at least two teaspoons a day. I've always thought it seemed like a waste of Points but it's necessary. 3. Dairy - I'm drinking two cups of milk a day. It should be three because I'm over 50, but I take a calcium pill so I think I'm covered. 4. Snacks - this one is big and I think has really made a difference. I'm been following Lyn's blog, <a href="http://escapefromobesity.blogspot.com/" target="blank">Escape from Obesity</a>, as she writes about MediFast. First of all, I'm not an advocate of using MediFast long term. However, I think what Lyn is doing is perfect for her. What's even better is she's sharing tips on what she's eating. For example, the snacks should be a combination of a carb and a protein. I've known this for years (from a nutritionist friend), but I chose to ignore it. It makes a huge difference in how satisfied I feel with my snacks being a "complete snack". Instead of just blueberries or just an orange, I'll have half the portion of fruit I use to have and add some protein, like 1/4 cup of cottage cheese or some yogurt, or even a couple ounces of sliced turkey. 5. My lunch and dinners are smaller, but I eat more snacks and eat more often. I think this one is huge too. If you're following Lyn's MediFast diary, she eats often. Usually every three hours she eats something. Always something low in calories, but high in nutrition and fiber. All the food has added fiber. I've found about three hours after eating I'm feeling hungry. After four hours I'm starving. If I get to the starving mode, all bets are off and I lose control. The key is to not get to that "I'm starving to death and am going to chew off my own arm" stage. Eat something for God's sake! I can't believe the difference in how this makes me feel less out of control. 6. Cutting out the crap - this one was tough for me, really tough. When I say "crap" I don't mean cakes and cookies and candy, I mean "diet" crap. Like diet sodas. I may only have a couple a week, but I cut them out totally. Weight Watchers ice cream bars are banned from this house. Sugar-free Coffeemate, I poured it down the drain. I like my sweets but I switched from Splenda to Stevia. I don't know if that's really better for me, but at least taste a lot better. I only have a packet once or twice a day in my tea and it seems to satisfy my sweet tooth. So far, so good! The giant monster called my out-of-control hunger is resting peacefully. Exercise None yesterday! My gym was burglarized (all TVs stolen) and vandalized. It was closed for a police investigation when I got there at 5am. Then my iPod that's three years old completely died. Not a dead battery, it's just frozen and I can't reset it (I think my sweat finally destroyed it). I can't workout without music so no evening workout either. I'm now the proud owner  of a new 5th generation pink iPod that I bought last night. It makes movies, has a built-in pedometer and an FM radio. Now if it only worked out for me. :) No wonder when I tried to buy a new armband for my old iPod last week the guy at Best Buy laughed at me, saying, wow, they don't even make those anymore! It was "only" three years old. In technology world that's like 20 years. Anyway, love the new iPod! Have a totally awesome day everyone. And tonight, get to bed early so you're not so darn tired tomorrow. :) ~Diana

Putting the binge monster to sleep

I haven't had a binge for five nights in a row. The solution, which many of you suggested, was so simple that I can hardly believe it wo...

S’ouvrir les portes des métiers de l'imprimerie : visite d'entreprise le 26 mars 2010

12:49 AM Anonymous 0

La Maison de l'Emploi du Bassin d'Orléans organise une visite d'entreprise pour découvrir les métiers de l’imprimerie<ul> <li>le vendredi 26 mars 2010 <li>dans les locaux de l'entreprise Imprimerie Nouvelle.</ul> Le transport est pris en charge par la Maison de l'Emploi avec l'appui du PLIE. Le nombre de places est limité. Pour s'inscrire, contacter la Maison de l'Emploi du bassin d'Orléans : 02 38 24 18 03 ou <a href="mailto:accueil@news-these-days.fr">accueil@news-these-days.fr</a>. Départ : PLIE, Espace Saint Marc, 5 place du 6 juin 44, 45 000 Orléans (dans l'espace d'accueil), à 09h00 (<a href="http://maps.google.fr/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=fr&geocode=&q=Espace+Saint+Marc,+5+place+du+6+juin+44,+45+000&sll=47.905526,1.937199&sspn=0.040851,0.077162&ie=UTF8&radius=1.79&split=1&filter=0&rq=1&ev=zi&hq=Espace+Saint+Marc,+5+place+du+6+juin+44,+45+000&hnear=&ll=47.906217,1.937199&spn=0.039412,0.077162&z=14" target="_blank">Plan</a>)

S’ouvrir les portes des métiers de l'imprimerie : visite d'entreprise le 26 mars 2010

La Maison de l'Emploi du Bassin d'Orléans organise une visite d'entreprise pour découvrir les métiers de l’imprimerie le vendred...

Counting down the days!!

6:50 PM Tukiyooo 0

Happy Monday everyone!! I'm so excited that this week is FINALLY here!! I only work 1 1/2 days left, then on Thursday Kyle & I are off to Florida!! I got up this morning with great intentions of hitting the gym. I stretched while Kyle was eating his breakfast and when he went to work I went back to bed. We ended up staying up way too late last night and I regretted it this morning. I ended up over sleeping and barely made it to work on time! Once there I whipped up my usual oatmeal breakfast (oatmeal, small sliced banana, & PB2) for 4 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4DZ7zNpIYIKebHMFUhdqa1twaBCG-tC66lSKNHPs046XrdAHqE8VlogJH9GcbMHEFQq0vLQFLCeoIMzRow_rSMilrTmS8cyCKWx6FM8wxwSFW53Bks41OL0iq63l6WbErMusyFbR7lNnz/s1600-h/DSC06395%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06395" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONfu0zQyscoAFUil_ThtU6ghwpm6LI8QAPkah3vx91Dt4KOU7ZPP5rvgWFmHV1ZENe1kHXcAPvHn5Gd__EudP5my1ntyiFDAjarlBeGoKMq_03l_rz1xBEkHapOVnA5B8ur0nB21J4UOP/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06395" width="404" /></a> I have a feeling these next few days at work are going to c.r.a.w.l!! I can only think about FLORIDA!! I had my morning snack, but doesn't it looks wrong? I didn't have any cereal or granola. :( It was still yummy though! Strawberry ww yogurt & 1 c strawberries for 2 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-GXOlTc_suky3XgJlc9uiq9vPGhsgBh0rq4zttYmWtV1U1kg-uVinWWGVxq9BZMmHqrZ4HgnSiVwkb1r-wnswwuBd3RQ6hezT3NRr9kq7gFjsZCGVWxWkJzKU_HJ-tWEdDZhRNCEOj0S/s1600-h/DSC06396%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06396" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLo05x3dMGPPBijf_or7XaPuEn_Zr_yJiXJTVhkNzeA8j990IEgcC4XPgxRYgR5VXhzgkJWaHk74M-iRyPMyse7Gdpt1SZZbpM_GG0zfk21rKrB8-nkYzVwZkxd9JbrqV9ieNSEAv5JnxF/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06396" width="404" /></a> I picked up a free Redbox on the way home for lunch. I've been getting coupon codes in my email a lot lately! They must miss us since we haven't watched a movie in a while! Before leaving my office I had a small appetizer of baby carrots & ff ranch for 1 point.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3JFljMQdNuhEoPsvUQ0PzFDbPoYq2dbXZe-g-7Ei2Q4OzCyDk7s1T5EYn03JMXIk3ewDTjyhbDugVPEl_3xk3v7k2cRchyM-Af4Dkw7KIUADgo3bozc97wcalFaXbkjh9_KvnemIYQHK/s1600-h/DSC06397%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06397" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-dKpdlfudFtRq6a67YwrIr722Ftizh0YMKYMLOcQpa1oyFFP4UJvDrqki50KmaLcJhyphenhyphenGQs0yPzLqf50s-YfLr7DeWMFb8qMnQwZGfJm4TCH3Flvw8XPDff5LmDc-C2ICUuDzWHvbp7C9/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06397" width="404" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4tTmpFzYtlMqeM4UjQxUEz-0DakmFXdfB9r2yS8KNlyMo2JPpwp8I72WqBC-xSoY112q3yX6gw6QFacVsVMGVTP3-o301M3WI9a9nKTxZxwvlF0vu71NU8Ax5J9ZzrIacU-yI6QWAoaK2/s1600-h/DSC06398%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06398" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVlzSitSu-rzuODcQs6OtG5oE1nOwGPXhW-ZNJTBohMSDNlT8ib3ZMbNHRc3gxluc7OzeE47iojP8c4KfIEN-ptH6tAjeaIqtFWkQ_wnxRxAbyQQ6tUxWM3V9hh75CqzvzKX4cMsrssjNp/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06398" width="404" /></a>   Lunch was a <a href="http://weightloss-stories.blogspot.com/2010/03/priceless.html">copy cat</a> of last week! But just made by me, not my hubby! I had 1/2c cottage cheese w/cantaloupe and an egg white & cheese sandwich for 5 points.    <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4s_divHuZPMY94NaeWyFHF4hrzWwMJU1wG8x8msFl7InZZk-Kwgjb7YdqKhXAStcqRi-kV_eJFodU_JV3ruCQ3y-NhpRR_pLIYg2hY9MuHXIZmMwfKnZ1cE1l87wMF8c_etQmII_rab_/s1600-h/DSC06399%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06399" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5JVskYpzljobj0kZQ1Y6u-P_t78YRchNQjq0v9W946-KBwDC0EvxL_baVjuiKbaxpWEN0Cw8iDGMwc-lacIpiwVCZe1A6hJhrc7PT1V175YnlUkGvYS8C1SROA3UMg7vx8xWfVBM9C65R/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06399" width="404" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfuzZMWlX6F5Mp8iGZsyYIJvSU6VQfBY9m_D_giqGJGC6sbKqqgzc0rI2WLqjrT-kaZnqFWbVmVrAazYNUgpvV47WR6Mv9xiUt7oaa4aJjFA70sxgK-QjQgXDq5s5tHEcjCNPtq-rTIXSW/s1600-h/DSC06400%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06400" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM7rZU_hIjy8LexJCu_hKR6uDLChmRPnys5_S7cHF5xDNivTMvsBBQHn3agaPgrWwynQbt8qM_01PZ_qWZxAFfqp6TJsSwoDk27bJ7qqsykQ4I_lkJ9T9g_MbdIqOw7yvsb3ApKPbMZGqe/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06400" width="404" /></a> My afternoon went relatively fast and I was home free for the evening! We brought some treats to a few of our neighbors and chatted for a while. Gotta love good neighbors! By the time we got home it was about 8pm and I wasn’t really hungry. I decided to make a smoothie. Tonight it contained 1 small frozen banana, 1 1/2c strawberries, strawberry yogurt, and 1/2 scoop vanilla protein powder for 4 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisto2uMv1hgqVy4g5ALjsJUOqP7J3ZZ3651lHr3S4osFsMPhyphenhypheno4w-gY9CFIV1W_3Z3szbKQTQ5E7V9BWmDjWkts-KHoEBq_rR0uxZuobRHzwadOBGJtCuagJgHhjV_xBGNLO2q3wMyVYCW/s1600-h/DSC06401%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06401" border="0" height="467" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPOzsdr_xBDfbGbbFqL3x1zNHzDayfExeo94BCcrGSbeOSTGgjKIL2J9KS5rDxtJkhI1lZOjFpoaxqy4HcNma0zNVJEyxhVEM0NWBJqB93xYtai5x7So2ewxMC5pww5XnuRuBV0MqR4jL/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06401" width="357" /></a> I was still a little hungry after my smoothie, but wasn’t feeling 100% “right” so I had a slice of toast with a little strawberry jelly for 1 point. Like my Easter egg plate? Pottery Barn clearance a few years ago!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ju3qMWBT9Ga-L8bxRVKve_6Bshz47mllmYvrq00TKcG1X-T2rXdDrn5lcqtrIonraT6RGNk9vuPdx72fRRJLLEEs8YGaCITRNOobLsJL4oFeUWZWchlBaoiAnQRDAYRZ6keZ4vDDo797/s1600-h/DSC06402%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC06402" border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-D7XXNZbIIFlqu1za0Yp9AnoSYHWIZzdsTD2MsFxXe2yiHPHNBlLbeN4H5BqkwEaIGl_1zRsgwelX6vWedVt1XdWNAEkCjwasDYLYgNZvzyZdex9uLExss7G652L45DsfX3t6sfdvthvU/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC06402" width="304" /></a> Kyle and I are now snuggled in enjoyed our free Redbox! Crossing my fingers that the scale shows a loss tomorrow…need to get those lbs gone before Thursday!! MONDAY'S STATS POINTS = 17/23 WATER =  80 oz EXERCISE = none Does anyone have anything fabulous & fun they recommend we do while we are in Florida? We usually just kick back & relax…but we can always squeeze in a few things! We will be in the Tampa area and then also the West Palm Beach area.

Counting down the days!!

Happy Monday everyone!! I'm so excited that this week is FINALLY here!! I only work 1 1/2 days left , then on Thursday Kyle & I are...