... bloggings of a FINALLY fitgirl!

I'm back... I need to fill you in!

2011-02-17T06:34:00.000-07:00

A LOT has happened since I wrote last...

-I got married on March 27th, 2010.
-My father in law passed away on April 23rd, 2010.
-I woke up with Bell's Palsy on April 28th, 2010!!!

- October 7th, 2010 - I discovered that my now husband has been leading a double life, conducting an extramarital affair since 8 months BEFORE we got married...
- October 17th, 2010 - I kicked his sorry ass out of my house.

2011 is the year that is going to be ALL ABOUT ME! Screw bringing others into my life to try to complete me! Let me be complete without other jack-asses fucking with MY plan!!!

Fitgirl is GETTING MARRIED!!!

2010-01-30T20:00:00.003-07:00

My fiance and I have been engage for a full year now
(he proposed to me in Maui last year)
We have decided to get married on March 27th, 2010 at the top of the Calgary Tower!!!
It's going to be such a memorable day for us!

Stressful for me (planning a wedding aint easy!) but memorable none the less!

Like I said in my header... 2010 is the year of new beginnings!!!

The diet we should all follow!

2009-12-10T22:00:00.004-07:00

The Slow-Carb Diet

I liked this link! Go read it and get healthy!

My shoot with Phil Crozier

2009-10-22T18:04:00.011-06:00

http://www.photophilcro.blogspot.com/

This was the BEST photoshoot yet!
PHIL... you rock!!!
Can't wait to work with you again!

I'm so forgetful

2009-05-22T18:43:00.002-06:00

I had to reset my Blogger password 3 times in the past 2 months...
what's my problem???

FAME PRAIRIES 2009

2009-05-01T10:12:00.001-06:00

I placed 4th in the 'Muscle Model (open)' category!
A great finish for my first show!

2nd show already scheduled for October 17th, 2009!

I've been gone for so long!

2009-04-08T21:52:00.003-06:00

And look at how much has changed!!!!

The first pull up!

2008-12-14T20:52:00.004-07:00

http://www.building-muscle101.com/under-grip-close-hand-chinup.html

During my last heavy workout (Friday afternoon) I attempted an unassisted chin up (something I've been dreaming about accomplishing for years) but it's something that I haven't been focused on AT ALL lately. (Preoccupied with getting STRONGER!!!)

Anyways, sometimes we do chin downs (where you jump up holding the bar and slowly lower yourself) I don't even attempt a true chin UP anymore... until I saw Candace (my friend who is also training for the April competition) do 2 in a row like nothing! BOOM, BOOM! I thought "WOW, she can do 2 in a row? I must be able to do at least one!" So I rearranged my grip so it was like hers (I've never even thought to try it underhanded before) and slowly attempted to lift myself. To my amazement, I was floating ABOVE THE BAR! OMG... I did it! Unassisted!!!! I tried for a seccond one, but no dice, at that point my muscles were spent! I can't wait to try again tomorrow for 2 in a row!

Wish me luck!!!

Crow, I finally GOT IT!

2008-11-10T09:40:00.011-07:00

I still can hardly believe it! That's me in this picture doing CROW pose!
I have been trying to figure this pose out for I'd say over a year now and I continued to fall flat on my face each time... until last night! Something in the words the woman who was leading the yoga session said made the light bulb go on for me and FINALLY I was UP in crow and balancing!

I still feel SO GOOD about myself for accomplishing this! It may seem like a small feat for some of you, but to me... this is HUGE! I feel like I've mentally grown so much, so quickly!

It's amazing how good yoga makes one feel!
(For more pics of my crow [and wheel] pose, check out my

FLICKR site!)

FAME Canadian Nationals 2008

2008-10-19T10:48:00.010-06:00

I spent quite a few hours this weekend watching the FAME 2008 Canadian Nationals Fitness, Muscle and Body Building comp. It was very exciting for me and I am even MORE excited to enter my OWN competition in April 2009 now!!! The girls made it look so easy up there on stage! ...but I think, if I was in the same shape as they are (meaning, a diet of cutting carbs and then cutting water for 2 days prior to showing) I would have been pretty confident out there too!

My friend Candace

(#747) did exceptionally well, considering this was her FIRST show! She placed 3rd (out of a field of 14 girls) in her Muscle Model category!!!

I was absolutely THRILLED for her! She wins a plaque with her placing, a professional photo from the event and the bragging rights that she placed 3rd in the 2008 Muscle Model Category! (And she has only been training for this for 3 months prior to the event! WOW!)

The next show is on April 25th, 2009, and I am planning to be in it... so that means I have 27 weeks to shape myself up to STAGE QUALITY! (Granted, I am going on a 2 week long vacation in January, so I really hope that I can make sure that does not screw up my progress!!!)

In ALL reality, I probably could have entered this competition in the body building category and placed pretty well... but next year, I'll be way more confident! WOOT!

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Getting all RIPPED up!

2008-09-24T21:10:00.003-06:00

I've come a long way since April... I've lost 25 pounds and check out all those mucsles! (And the abs!!! Finally, I have REAL abs!)

The next FAME fitness competition is on October 18th, 2009... I am not planning on being ready to for it but I have a few friends who are planning on competing. I am training with them but not following their VERY STRICT diet! (It's not worth it if I'm not even competing yet!)
Everyone is looking SO GOOD! We are getting more and more compliments as the training days progress! (3.5 weeks out, only 24 days left!)
I'm planning on attending the competition, not only as morale support, but to get some pointers on what to expect and to get some ideas for my own competition!

It's all so very exciting to me now!!!

Wedding photo shoot & my photo shoot!

2008-09-08T13:54:00.003-06:00

I went to a wedding this weekend, as my sister's caddy to help her with her gear, since she had been asked to shoot the photos for a friend's wedding. (She really wasn't looking forward to it but agreed as the bride asked her in desperation!)
The day was pretty rushed... we arrived to photograph the bride and her girls all getting their dressed on. Then it was off to the church for te ceremony! My sister was just snapping pictures off left and right! The ceremony was short and sweet. Finally we headed to the park that they choose to get their formals in. We lucked out and got great weather for this part! I thought we got quite a few really GREAT photos!

On our way home from the wedding, we stopped in a farmers field and Jenny took some photos of me on/amongst the hay bails. It was really fun! We both really enjoyed it!

When we got home Jenny ripped all the photos from the wedding onto a disk (for safety's sake) and then had a peak at them! OMG... the bride blinked in about 90% of the shots! 90%, seriously!!! I was quite dissapointed when saw the 900+ pictures from the wedding and most of them where disturbed in some way (out of focus, someone making a face, poor lighting, bride blinking!)
I think I have learned a valueable leasson on WHY people spend thousands of dollars to get their wedding professionally shot! (Not saying ANYHING bad about my sister's abilities... because she really is a great AMATEUR photographer!)

You get what you pay for... and unfortunatley in this case, if Jenny had MORE experience she wouldn't have accepted this job for the amount of money the Bride was willing to pay either!

OUT with the OLD. IN with the NEW

2008-08-15T21:58:00.004-06:00

I got me some NEW WHEELS!!! (the white pair in the photo are my NEW blades!)
I took them out for a short spin today and they ride SO NICE! I actually feel like they've bumped my skill level up a notch! Seriously... It's a weird (but wonderful) feeling! I am much MORE confident and care-free rollerblading in them!

Aren't the purdy???

Tomorrow, Collin and I are going to start RIPPING apart the wooden deck and start excavting and preparing the area to install a retaining walled patio. It will look something like this:
I am SOOO EXCITED about this project!!!

Muscle cramps meet "THE STICK"

2008-08-07T22:52:00.003-06:00

I have mentioned how I get MAJOR muscle cramp in my calves when I workout without eating a banana, right? Well, it's true! My body is weird, and needs the quickly avaliable potassium released in the banana in order to maintain proper muscle function. (or at least that's what I THINK is going on...)

I mentioned this to Wendy (my PT) and she suggested I get "the Stick"... has anyone ever heard of this massage tool? It looks AMAZING! I think it's EXACTLY what my freaky little calf muscles need to help break up all that lactic acid and what not from exercising. I got so excited when I found it on EBAY (for $25.00) that I bought one!!! The 17" travel Stick. I will definitely have a review once I get it and try it out a few times. My sore muscles can barely wait!!! PS... the website says it works GREAT for Fibromyalgia sufferers too!!! www.thestick.net/awards.htm#fms

I caught the bouquet!

2008-08-05T08:59:00.006-06:00

Yes! I finally caught a bouquet at a wedding!!!

(Albeit I caught it with my BOOBS but that is NOT against the rules, is it?)

... so I guess this means I'm getting married soon!?!
LOL

Amazing Opportunity... perhaps?

2008-07-30T12:04:00.010-06:00

I'm not sure if I should be talking about this since I haven't received ANY confirmation yet, but I'm so freaking excited about it I could almost puke! LOL
I have been contacted by Grant Miller from Spark People press relations... he asked me if I'd consider having my weight loss story featured in REDBOOK magazine's monthly weight loss success story feature!!!

---------------------O........M........G-----------------------

When I read the email, I actually got CHILLS down my spine! Me... I couldn't believe that they would even consider me? WOW, I feel absolutely BLESSED that I have even been contacted about this... let alone the fact that it COULD become a reality!!!
Of course I said I'd LOVE to have my story featured there and I'd LOVE to spread the Spark there! I am still in AWE of this! What a wonderful email to receive tonight... I never would have expected that!
I'll keep you posted on what he replies back!
*fingers crossed*
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Camping trip and all that stuff

2008-07-24T09:40:00.004-06:00

Collin and I went camping last weekend with his family. It was the FIRST annual event, planned on the weekend closest to his late Grandma Sabourin's Birthday. We spent the weekend playing, laughing, just in general loving life! (Camping will do that to you... reminds you of what's REALLY important!)

We need to do more camping... we both really loved it, and I found a new sport I know I could REALLY get into: KAYAKING!!!

For me it was the perfect mix of being in the water but not! LOL (I'm not much of a swimmer, but I love to be in the water on a flotation device... or a boat! LOL) Collin's Grandma left her kayak to his Aunty Nanette (her daughter) and she brought it to the lake to use during the ash spreading part of the weekend. I was a little apprehensive to use it at first... but once Nanette coaxed me enough, and I was in... no looking back! (You really don't use your legs much for this sport, but it's just a wonderful way to spend an afternoon on the water! I MUST buy my own kayak! MUST!
...but not this year, that will be my plan for NEXT summer!!!)
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A little weekly recap

2008-07-17T09:18:00.010-06:00

I FINALLY decided to wear my latest 'Le Chateau' purchase: this black jumper/pencil skirt and turquoise silk top! Don't you just love it? (I bought the exact same dress in Febuary in size LARGE... I am happy to say, I am wearing a size SMALL today!!!)

So... I was asked if I wanted to train for a fitness competition by a PT at the gym... she specifically came up to me and said "I'd LOVE to train you!" (This woman is a HUGE inspiration of mine... she has already competed in a couple fintess competitions that I know of for sure! (Fame 2007 and 2008) and won at both events!

(In this photo, she is the model wearing the BLACK bikini on the left)

I think this is a sign... I was JUST thinking "Maybe I should get a personal trainer to take me to the *next level*"... I mean, I have basically acheived my weight loss goal! (In record time, I might add!) And I'm READY to do even more!

Fitness competition???!!! BRING IT ON!!!!!
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Too Short!?!

2008-07-14T06:49:00.004-06:00

I kinda feel like a boy in this new hair do!!! I haven't had short hair like this is a really long time!!! I'm remembering WHY I don't cut my hair this short... because to look girlie, I have to wear so much MORE make-up to compensate for the lack of hair !!! Ahhhh....

Oh well, my hair grows fast, so it won't look like this for long!
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BMR Calculator

2008-07-09T09:30:00.004-06:00

If you are interested to find out how many calories your body ACTUALLY needs in a day, fill out this calculator with your info and get the result instantly!!!

Stampede can be over... ANYTIME now!

2008-07-09T08:55:00.007-06:00

LOL

Yes... I'm officially Stampede'd out! Yesterday was my corporate Rodeo event and again it was a hootin', hollerin' good time... but ohhhh does my head hurt from all this FUN! I'm not young enough to party like this anymore!!! ;) So I'm officially DONE with Stampede for the year! It's back on plan, back on track for me! I think I'll be going to bed EARLY tonight just to CATCH UP on the sleep I've been missing out on!
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Check out my Flickr for pictures of the parties! I have NOT posted my Rodeo pics/vids yet because last night I was in NO capacity to do much of anything... so maybe tonight or next week they will be up too!
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YAHOO! Stampede week is HERE!

2008-07-02T09:20:00.004-06:00

Happy day after Canada Day, ya'll! We didn't go out to any fireworks last night... I was pretty pooped and Collin was passed out by 10:00pm, as usual! (I'm glad I got to bed early for a change though... it makes waking up at 6:00am so much easier!!!)

For those of you that aren't aware of Calgary culture, Stampede week is starting this Friday! YAHOO! (Well, yahoo for eating and drinking... not yahoo for my weight loss goals!) I already have a double header cheat day planned for this weekend; friday night we are off to the Chuckwagon races and Saturday we have been invited to a Stampede Lunch at Ranchmans. I think I will just eat right and try NOT to cheat other then when I am actually at these events... otherwise I'm going to feel like a BIG SACK OF POOP by the time MY work rodeo function occurs (on Tuesday, July 8th). I want to be able to enjoy myself there!!!

I have been exercising like clock-work these days... It was great to have a 5 day weekend, it gave me time to come out of the fitness rut and into something new! I have started rollerblading again, and MAN it feels good! I strap on my HRM, my iPod and my pads and away I go! (I know I should be wearing a helmet too... I will put on my bike helmet next time I go... PROMISE :) I took Collin around the Glenmore Resevoir yesterday (despite the crappy weather looming) and we had a really great time! One of my wheels decided to pretty much STOP rolling so that made it a little more dificult returning to the car, but overall we had a good workout! I need to learn how to clean out my wheel bearings! (jenny... do you remember how?)

I'm pretty STOKED about todays weigh-in. This morning I'm feeling lighter then ever... I'll update you on that soon!
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Bison Burgers

2008-06-19T15:45:00.003-06:00

My company held it's Annual Aboriginal Relations Celebration today outside of one of our corporate office buildings. There was Native singing, native dancing, and bison burgers to be had! I wasn't supposed to have a burger, but couldn't refuse! I mean, when else am I going to get to try Bison???

It was actually REALLY tasty! (I don't know what I expected!) But I enjoyed it, bun and all! :) (I'm not going to sweat the extra calories... I mean, it was a one time deal for me!)

I'll post pictures of the dancers once I get them off my camera!
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Stripping Manequins

2008-06-18T14:07:00.011-06:00

That's what I did today at lunch... I went for a short shopping trip, and everything I wanted in my size was on the freaking manequin! What's up with that???
I got a black, jumper-style pencil skirt, 2 satin/silk tops (one in turquiose, one in samony pink) and a necklace with really cool beads that I'm planning on taking apart an revamping into a WAY COOL creation! I'll take before and after pictures, if I ever get to that project! LOL

For those of you that were wondering about Tuesday's weigh-in...
*~*~*~*~ 138.1 lbs! *~*~*~*~
WOOT! (1lb down from last week, 16.9 total lost!)
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It's finally really noticeable!

2008-06-16T15:56:00.004-06:00

First my Mom commented on it... today my colleague from the gym commented on it. The fact that I'm loosing weight is really beginning to get noticed! (Honestly, I really appreciate when someone comments on anything of mine really... because since the beginning of time I've been the middle child, and if you are a middle child you know exactly what I am talking about! We are [or feel like] the forgotten ones... invisible almost!) I feel like I'm not so forgotten anymore! :)

My Tuesday weigh-ins are always BETTER then my Monday weigh-ins, so I'll wait till tomorrow to post any numbers... so far it looks like I'm on track though. :) I tried really hard to stay with my program while I was in Edmonton for Father's Day weekend. I think for the most part I did well... no obvious cheats, no substantial bread or pasta... I stayed within my caloric range all 3 days and I even packed some healthy foods with me, so they wouldn't go bad in my fridge while I was gone! I was planning on making a trip to the gorcery store once I arrived but, my mom's fridge was LOADED so there was no room to put anything even if I wanted to! AHHH!

That's about it... back to work!
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First Weight Loss Goal REACHED!

2008-06-11T09:43:00.012-06:00

I DID IT!!! I reached my first weight loss goal (140lbs) ...And I did it in a mere 65 days (or 9 weeks)! I was dedicated, commited and disciplined... but it was (and IS) all worth it!!!
I weighed in yesterday at 139.1 lbs! WOO HOO! Good bye 150's & 140's, HELLO 130's!
(I haven't seen these numbers show up on the scale since 2003-2004!)
PS: when I started out 65 days ago, I weighed 155 lbs! I've currently lost 15.9 pounds!

Now, to set NEW, realistic goals. I'm thinking of setting every 5 pounds to be another goal... So at 135, 130 and 125... I haven't seen THAT number (125) since I WAS 25! 6 years ago!!! I'm not even sure if I am physically able to get down to that weight again, but since this time around I am doing it the healthy way I am definitely going to try!
Last night I was looking in the mirror and I even saw my 6 pack abs returning! (Not that I ever really had 6 pack abs!) but I can see them emerging! All that kick boxing is paying off dividends! WOO HOO!!!

TKO class today... I'm PUMPED!
FREE DAY tomorrow... I have totally earned this one :)
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Body FAT analysis

2008-06-05T14:38:00.006-06:00

Really, I wish they could call it a Body Mass analysis...
"Body Fat" just sounds bad!
I really am curious about my muscle mass to see where I stand amongst the general population. Am I considered "Average" or not? (Yes, my Enquiring mind wants to KNOW!") I need to schedule this for next week sometime.
(Last I checked on my hand-held device (which has a sketchy track record for reliable readings), I was 28.5% BF... I don't agree!)

Requirements before a Body Fat test for BEST results:
6 hours before test: No Alcohol, No Exercise
2 hours before test: No Eating, No Caffeine, No Smoking

Sounds easy enough to accomplish... Now just need to book the appointment!

PS... I weighed in at the gym today and I'm holding steady at 141.7 lbs... I only need to loose 0.9 pounds to fall in the healthy BMI range of 20-25! (I'll be 24.9 then!!!)
I can do it... I know I CAN!!!
And I still have 1.3 pounds to lose until I've hit my FIRST goal weight of 140 lbs! YAYAYA!
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GIGANTIC CANDY!

2008-06-04T23:17:00.004-06:00

(Large version in my hand, original size on the counter)

OK... what the hell are THEY trying to do to me? Didn't someone tell them I LOVE Rockets??? Why, then, did they find it necessary to create a GIGANTOR version of the tiny Halloween Sized treats??? Seriously, why? And WHY NOW??? My nutrition plan DOES NOT allow for me to fully enjoy these tastey buggers anymore, but THANK GOD for FREE days! (Like TODAY! :)
YAY! Candy Heaven!
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Good Bye, Gi-Gi!

2008-06-03T11:07:00.004-06:00

"Gi-Gi" is what Collin's cousin's 2 year old called his Grandma. Unfortunately she passed away on May 26th, 2008.

Yesterday we attended her funeral. It was very nice... A beautiful tribute to a special woman! I will remember her fondly! (Eventhough I only met her a few times, she was very different then most grandmothers I've known!) I know her kids and grand kids will miss her!

Good Bye, Gi-Gi! We love you!
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Another FIRST today!

2008-05-29T08:45:00.004-06:00

I woke up WITH Collin at 5:30am!!! My body was STARVING, and my metabolism WOULD NOT let me go back to bed until I ate something! (OH, I hate when I wake up in hunger pain like that!)

Today is my FREE day, and I'm planning on going to a Crawfish Boil for lunch... apparently there will be other things besides crawfish there, so hopefully I don't waste this FREE day by NOT eating something that tastes WAY TOO GOOD TO BE HEALTHY! I mean, that's what FREE days are for, RIGHT???

Cheerio Folks!
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Happy Birthday DADDY!

2008-05-26T09:39:00.004-06:00

My dad is 60 today! WOW!!! I can't believe he's that old already!!! (This is a self portrait he took of himself when he was working up North.) Yup, I got the camera bug from him! (that and a few other traits: saving money, cleanliness, talking alot to the point of being annoying... HAHAHA! Couldn't resist!)

Daddy, you really did teach me soo many great lessons in life that I can't even express how much I thank you!!! For being a great family supporter (even when you had to go up North, leaving your wife and kids back at home, you did what you had to to make sure we were housed, fed, clothed, nurtured, and loved!) for teaching me the value of money (I had a bank account as soon as I can remember, and my Dad would take us down to the Bank on the weekend and allow us to deposit our allowance into our account at a real bank teller!) for allowing us to play many different sports (My Dad allowed us to explore our athletic side. He always took us to the ponds to skate in the winter and then to the ball games we had in the summer! ... until I was able to ride my bike there myself :) and for your constant support and always believing in your children!

Dad, you are amazing! I love you... we all love you!!!

Have a wonderful BirthDay!!!

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Let the Unpacking begin!

2008-05-25T07:35:00.002-06:00

I will be helping my sister unpack her boxes from their recent move today (from Nanaimo, BC to Strathmore, AB) I am seriously THRILLED that she lives sooo freaking CLOSE to me again! Godness, I've missed her company! (not to mention her 2 little kidlets and Ken too!) I am really excited to hang out with her today, even though I am going to be put to work! lol (Work is like breathing to me, it's actually harder for me to sit and do nothing!!!) So, Jen, get ready to bond over unpacked boxes :) cause I've really missed you!!!

Last night I spend the evening with an old friend who has, just last year moved to Houston, Texas. She's back in town for the weekend since she has been planning her wedding for August and it's gonna be here. We met at Montana's for dinner, and I ended up ordering something completely not on my diet, and it tasted YUK! :( Luckily I was eating BANG ON yesterday so I wasn't so starving that I had to eat it anyways! Despite that screw up, I think I ate pretty well overall, and I still came home for some veggies and dip!!! (I don't like to be hungry ever, you know stomach growling)

My poor quads are still aching from my squats on Friday! Wow!!! I need to do MORE weight training!!!!

Still loosing... but A LOT SLOWER!

2008-05-21T09:06:00.002-06:00

The "rapid weight loss" phase of my diet is over, I think... Overall, I'm still loosing weight on my current nutrition plan but it's to the tune of 1 pound per week. (not 3 pounds like I WAS seeing during the first month!)
I expected this to happen though, and at least I haven't hit a PLATEAU yet! And this is also a really good wake-up call for me... NOw I understand why the daily weigh-ins are so silly! If you are loosing weight like a NORMAL person, seeing a ONE pound change over the week is normal... weighing-in more then that frequency just sets you up for the emotional rollercoaster of gaining and loosing due to so many factors (drinking more water then usual, workout factors, stress, what you ate the night before, etc...) NO MORE OF THAT!

I've also moved into the "vetran" stage of this phase of my diet (according to my colleague!), where I know exactly what to eat and when and am so much more relaxed about it! (However, this past weekend stressed me out, diet wise, because we spent it driving around Alberta and I found it tough to eat at my set times... I couldn't really plan my meals when I don't have my own kitchen at my disposal!) But I made it through, and I feel great!

Cheat Day gone WILD!

2008-05-12T08:50:00.003-06:00

OMG... This Saturday (my cheat day for the week) I ate like I've never seen food before! LOL
I literally went to bed 3-5 pounds heavier then I woke up!

UGH... I think Cheat days are there to remind you about how much BETTER you feel when you are eating healthy, nutritious foods... because BOY, did I feel like crapola Saturday night! (Granted, I must admit, I did eat MORE then I would have normally eaten even before I started this nutrition plan! I was a PIG! HAHA)
I didn't feel guilty about it though, which is something that I've been trying to tell myself NOT to feel on cheat days for the past month... so I am making progress. But I do see the damage that it's done on the scale this weekend... that kinda makes me miffed!
It was a MUCH easier transition from Cheat day back to Nutrition plan this time though. I didn't want to "cheat" once yesterday! I ate all of my healthy foods, and I'm starting to feel good again!

Next cheat day I am planning on eating healthier foods... not Taco Time, Arby's and Moxie's all in the same day! LOL

Finally feeling like the FIT GIRL!

2008-05-07T15:42:00.003-06:00

These photos were taken 18 days apart! And the one on the left isn't even where I actually started! (That had already at 5 pounds!)

This shows my progress to date: 10 pounds of weight loss the RIGHT, healthy way, with proper nutrition and exercise... no magic pills, no special packaged foods... just a balanced nutrition plan, and my own WILL POWER!

I feel GREAT about my progress so far!
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My home scale = crap!

2008-05-05T16:05:00.004-06:00

I need a new (or to garbage!?) my current bathroom scale. It's soo inacurate and it's making me doubt my progress. Today I weighed in at 147.4 at HOME... then I weighed in at the gym and it read 144.7! WTF???

I've decided no more home weigh-ins! Gym only! The scale is UBER plush and has a really huge platform to stand on! (like the one on the biggest loser. Well, sorta!)

This will keep my weigh-ins to about 3 per week. Monday, Tuesday and Friday. I can live with that!!!

Doing well with my nutrition today. I made Chili (what I just had for lunch, delish!) and babaganoush last night. I have to try the babaaganoush today... it might not be very good because I don't have a big enough food processor! I did try though!
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Ketones NEGATIVE!

2008-05-05T11:11:00.003-06:00

What is Ketosis?
My sister suggested I buy some Ketostix to enable me to forego the daily weigh-ins. (Ketosticks are these strips that you pee on, and they measure the amount of Ketones in your urine. Ketones are released when your body is using your fat stores for energy ie. weight loss mode)

My ketones this morning were negative, NADDA, NIL! The stick had not even a *hint* of ketones on it! :(
How bummed am I? So bummed, I forgot my weekly weigh-in today, and I already ate breakfast!

Stupid week, I hope it doesn't screw me up!

2008-05-02T22:33:00.004-06:00

Thursday was my 2nd Free/Cheat day on my plan. This one was an emotional day for me... like I didn' know how I felt about eating the sugar again! (everything is sooo much sweeter now... I had to water down my tea! What the??) So emotional that I almost cried twice. First my bank card wouldn't work at the coffee shop in the AM (and that was my only form of payment. Boo) And second... I was so excited for hamburgers for dinner and Collin forgot mine on the grill and burnted them pretty bad :( (And I HATE eating burnt anything! I WILL NOT!!! I cut off the charred parts, so my burgers were like really thin slices of meatloaf! LOL) It just seemed like nothing went smooth for me... Like someone was telling me "Ah, Ah Ah... don't be a cheater!" Stupid, guilty conscience! I guess overall, it's a good thing!

Tonight, I planned on working out, but still haven't! (And it's 10:30pm!) I might do 15 minutes of skipping and some pushups and sit ups... I'm just not in the mood to sweat anymore! But I did go for a tan today! That felt awesome! (First tan since my trip! Even out those tan lines finally! haha!)

Tomorrow is Collin's mom's Birthday dinner... I am going to TRY NOT to cheat... but I don't know if I can turn down BIRTHDAY CAKE!!! Maybe I will, but who knows! I'm not expecting to have a very positive diet day!!! I guess you only live once, right?
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Sugar Bugs!

2008-04-29T17:06:00.003-06:00

The other day (Friday of last week) I was trying out a new mouse on my work computer... I had to get down near the back of my desk to plug it in... well, when I got down under my desk, I noticed a candy that I must have dropped who knows when. (FYI it was a Malteser type of Easter egg candy) It looked like all the chocolate had been melted off (I assumed from the heat that the computer tower was throwing.) So, I went and picked it up... just as I did that, I noticed the pile of chocolate bits start to move!!!!
OMG, there are bugs eating this candy! Then I looked at the little piece of malt that I had in my hand, and it had what looked like tiny maggots in it also!
GRRROOSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I threw the candy on the floor and proceeded to freak out! LOL EWWWW.... my office has *Sugar BUGS* in it now!
I have since thrown out all the malted easter egg candies I had stashed in my cupboard... I mean, all I can think of when I see them now are *Sugar Bugs*!!! ... and with that, I think I've cured my *Sweet Tooth*!!!!

Not weighing myself is HARD!

2008-04-23T10:23:00.005-06:00

So, why do they tell you not to weigh in daily? I forget the logic to that!
I have been on SparkPeople for a while now, and they advocate a weekly weigh in. ...AWEEK??? WHA?!?.... You telling me, I gotta wait a whole 7 days to know if I am loosing??? HELLS NO!
That sounds silly to me, especially for me! I'm a numbers FREAK! And I love to chart out my success (and failure) in an Excel chart. (Yes, I'm a Spreadsheet geek! LOL) But for me it shows me how far I've come, and if in fact my efforts are paying off! (I first did this with a pencil and paper back in College when I first got back to working out. I managed to loose 10 pounds in 4 months (January to April 1997) just by adding regular exercise to my day and avoiding candy and chips! (Remember Jenny?... that was when we were hitting the NAIT gym! Oh those days!) For some reason I continued with the exercise, but my diet sure did go back to the way it was back then! Anyways, the nutrition plan I'm on seems to be kicking my body back into DRIVE and I am able to function on a lot fewer calories (without feeling hungry!) then I thought!!! :)
WHO KNEW???

I actually woke up EARLY (6:30) this morning to eat my breakfast at home, rather then pack it with me and eat it at work an hour or more later. My stomach was growling by 10 though... but I had packed a snack of minute oats, soy milk and berries. What a great pre-workout snack! :) I feel ready to hit the gym now... especially now that I know my body's running on almost 30 g of protein :)
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Pound 5

2008-04-18T22:18:00.002-06:00

My scale has been majorly schytzophrenic the past few days. I usually weigh myself 3 times, and take the average, or if one number comes up twice, I take that number... Well, the last time I weighed myself, the first number was super light, I was like "WHAT??? NO WAY! I didn't loose THAT much!" so I had to get a reading that was more believable to me (and the 2nd two readings were higher, as I expected!) Today, my first reading was actually an unexpected surprise, and I wasn't even going to do the 2nd and 3rd readings... but I figured I had to, just to be consistant... and the last 2 readings were WAY LOWER!!! WHAT???

Do digital scales do this when their batteries are low? Or is this kind of fluctuation in readings normal? (I know if I put the balls of my feet in different areas I can get the reading to go heavier or lighter. I don't think I'll ever be able to trust it.)

So, for today's weight, I actually took the higher reading as the truth, and it was still a 5 pound loss!!!
I'll soon be out of the 150's :) WOOT!!!!
Meeting with my nutritionist tomorrow to get some more pointers too! I'm looking forward to it!
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Fainted today

2008-04-17T12:14:00.002-06:00

I fainted this morning :( At work :(( In my collegues office :(((

Yeah, it was pretty stressful! I got all worked up about a stitch (pain) in my side, that just wouldn't go away! I called my mom, thought maybe she could diagnose me, but she only made it worse; "Maybe it's a blood clot!" She said! OMG... [freaking out ensues!] I run to my collegues office and proceed to tell her the story and I feel it... the blood, rushing out of my head. *1,2,3... down for the count! I had fainted! When I came to, my collegue and another co-worker we standing in front of me, just staring at me! They weren't sure what to do... but I did, and I just slunk too the floor and laid there taking deep breaths till I calmed down. (which actually took a while!)
(ASIDE: Yes, I am a fainter! I have fainted from the sight of my own blood. I will faint if I talk about a medical condition pertaining to blood. Even the word "clot" [shudders] is not a good one to use too many times around me! (I know... I'm weird! )

So back to the fainting story... I'm fine now, from the fainting. Honestly, that part didn't even phase me. My issue is that I still don't know why this side stitch persists? Is it fitness related? Do I actually have a blood clot??? Or just a spazming muscle? The pain reminds me of a *growing pain* like I used to get as a teenager, you know the ones where it sorta hurts to take really deep breaths?
I have a DR. appointment this afternoon. I hope she doesn't think I'm a freak, if it turns out to be nothing! :(

Loving the plan!

2008-04-14T11:01:00.003-06:00

I've been spending most of my on-line time at SparkPeople logging my fitness and nutrition goals for the day. I forgot how much I actually enjoy keeping a food journal, and how MUCH it really does help! (Seeing the calories get added of your total for the day is a real eye opener!) Lately I've been eating between 1600 and 1800 per day. Not sure what a normal range should be, but I'm happy with these numbers!

Yesterday Collin and I went for a walk around the Glenmore resevoir... I forgot how long that apth is when you are not on wheels! I don't think we've ever walked it before (we usually rollerblade it!) It turns out it's actually 14km long! It took us 3 1/4 hours (with one pit stop for water) to get back to the truck! Both of us were starving by the time we got to the truck, not to mention completely pooped out! It was a great though, because I knew that night we were just going to be sitting in front of the tube watching the Flames game. (We robbed them from that game!)
My poor feet, I need a hot bath tonight!
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My Dieting Personality

2008-04-10T11:58:00.005-06:00

I don't like to call it "dieting" it's more like "food budgeting", right? (Dieting has such a negative connotation these days!)
I had joined SparkPeople a while back, and decided to use their food journal to help track my daily intake during this initial stage of my nutrition plan.
They also had a quiz to determine what your dietting style is, and it hit the nail on the head for me... and gave me so many great tips on how to make sure I attain my goals. Have a look:

I'm the FAST FUELER:
Convenience is everything - and it's a problem. You tend to be on the go a lot and have a no-nonsense but inconsistent approach to health and fitness. The rational side knows about good nutrition and how it helps you get more done. But eating right all the time is a real hassle, especially when you just want to know what tastes good! Moreover, you prefer to eat when hungry but your busy schedule makes it difficult. Relatively speaking, it is also likely you have less weight to lose compared to most.
Fast Fuelers as a general rule tend to get caught up in what they're doing and sometimes forget to eat. A skipped breakfast or lunch is a recipe for trouble, usually ending up in an evening or late night calorie load-up. Fast Fuelers do not necessarily eat a lot of fast food, but your hectic day can lead to unhealthy food because a trip home or the grocery store just isn't convenient.

What can you do? Retake control of your diet with meal planning, convenience, and more consistency. Spacing out smaller, more frequent meals will keep your energy reserves stable and avoid the highs and lows of "grab and go" meals and late night snacking. You need to structure good nutrition into your day (like other appointments) to avoid the compromising situations that cause you to skip meals or hit the drive thru. You are likely an excellent do-it-yourselfer in other areas of your life. Plan and pack ahead. Use that advantage of discipline and determination to stick to a real plan!

How SparkPeople can help: SparkPeople's structured meal plans match your caloric needs and take the guesswork out of healthy food choices. Our searchable 10,000-food database makes it easy to plan ahead and keep track of calorie levels, overall nutrition and your weight loss progress. Choose from our plans or mix and match your own. Our food planning, tracking and calendar tools help you control your eating habits without using up a lot of valuable time or brainpower.

Great tips for FAST FUELERS:
-Bring stability to your diet, using your rational side to plan ahead and stay consistent.
-Pack your lunch or have someone pack for you so it's there when you need it.
-Have and use plenty of disposable resealable containers of different sizes.
-Batch-cook food on Sunday for the rest of the week
-Make a point to have more fresh fruit and vegetables within arm's reach.
-Try cutting the intake of coffee and soda in half or substituting with green tea.

Doesn't sound like you? Are you more likely an Emotional Eater, a Portion Distortioner, or just Carb and Calorie Crazed! Find out at SPARK!

If you want to join me in my weight loss journey, I would recommend getting started by checking out Spark! It's got so much information and other tools to use to make your goals become a reality! You will be very surprised how much you can accomplish in the right environment and support!!!
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Pound number 2

2008-04-09T08:45:00.006-06:00

So, since starting phase one of my new nutrition plan, I have already noticed a change on the scale! 2 pounds! (And I'm not even being super strict yet! ... it's amazing what eating a few meals of cheese curd and yogurt will do to your body! :) I know it's the bread and pasta that I need to avoid, and co far I've done a GREAT job at staying away from those carbolicious goodies!

Phase one of my nutrition plan is geared twards shocking my body, cutting out all of the processed sugars that I get way too much of normally! (Sweet tooth?!) It's been a bit of a slow process to get into this diet, but once I noticed that I was making progress, I was stoked! Yesterday I followed the diet to the letter, and I woke up today and lost another pound! YAHOO!

Trust me, eatting this diet is tough, but my saving grace is knowing that I only have to do it for a month! (...Then Phase two begins!)
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iPod tip for fitness instructors

2008-03-31T11:37:00.002-06:00

I've been looking for softeare to help edit songs... well I no longer have to... iTunes can do basic things like edit volumes, start and stop times, etc!
Yes!
In iTunes, right click on your music file and select the "Get Info" Tab. Another wndow pops up with 6 tabbed sections, choose the "options" tab and this is where all the magic can be done!

Yay! I love the internet!
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My Nutrition Plan - Part One

2008-03-31T09:15:00.002-06:00

I've gained a bit of weight (ok, 10 pounds) since I met Collin and I was a little concerned about it. It seems like since I turned 25, my body gains an average of 5 pounds per year... is this normal? So obviously I've been eating more then my body can burn off. :(
I decided to get a professional's help! I called up a fellow group exercise instructor whom I know has a nutritionist degree and enlisted her help.

Check out my new meal plan (keep in mind this is only phase one!):
Oatmeal 50gr (dry weight)
Chicken breast 4oz (cooked weight)
Skim milk 0.75 cup
Dry cottage cheese 125gr (I recommend mixing it with the yogurt)
Egg whites 3-4
Yogurt non-fat 125gr
Oriental vegetable mix 100gr
Rice (brown rice better choice) 1 cup cooked
Protein powder 1 scoop

This is all the food I'm allowed for a day! (Well, add in fresh veggies like lettuce, peppers, cucumbers, celery, cauliflower, cabbage, mushrooms, spinach, asparagus, green beans Brussels sprouts, comatose, onions, broccoli...) but basically that's all she wants me to eat for the next 4 weeks!

I'm going to get started on this tomorrow... I guess I'd better scarf down those CRAVE cupcakes I got on the weekend TONIGHT!!!
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Interactive LED Coffee Table Demo

2008-03-28T16:04:00.001-06:00

Too Cool!

No more condo stress

2008-03-28T11:38:00.002-06:00

Today I took the first step to getting some help with my condo situation. I met with a Property Management company representative to evaluate my condo and get the initial paperwork to set up our agreement. It feels *really good* not to have to stress about it anymore... seriously, I think it'll be worth every penny!
And I might even have a tenant lined up for them to screen... A previous neighbor of mine contacted me regarding his friend who's looking for a place . (He's a 60 year old gentleman, building a house in Calgary but it won't be ready for 10-12 months.) We'll see if that pans out though.
My track record with trying to rent this place out hasn't been the greatest... but I think it's cause I was putting the rent up too high!
I guess I've gotta give a little...
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I broke my shoe!

2008-03-26T13:13:00.006-06:00

Yesterday as I was teaching my spin class, I heard a loud *click* and thought I broke the pedal of the bike... but when my shoe didn't let go from the clip, I knew I hadn't!
After class I checked my cleat, and I actually broke the hard sole that the cleat is attached to! Now my shoe clicks as I walk. I don't think it's fixable... Booo!
The silver lining... New bike shoes, here I come, YAY :)
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Just an old Video to share

2008-03-22T22:47:00.002-06:00

I watched this Animoto short again today... still love it!

Easter Ham!

2008-03-22T21:53:00.011-06:00

My first real holiday gathering, and I think my meal went over
very well!
I decided to make a ham (actually, we got a couple of smaller black forest hams), roast potatoes, salad and corn.
It was yummy! And Ione (Collin's Mom) brought over fresh buns and dessert: Apple Crisp and ice cream! It was a perfect meal!

Enjoy the pictures of our evening here.
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OH, those taxes! They get me EVERY year!

2008-03-20T22:35:00.005-06:00

Doing taxes is pretty easy... I mean, it is just simple math: addition, subtraction kinda stuff. But what's NOT so simple is finding all the proper paperwork required to fill it out!
I really should seek professional help this year! I have way more items to deal with on my Income Tax now, and I'd really hate to miss some potential deductions, because lord knows, I need all that I can get!

(Yes, I have a rough life!)
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Music editing software?

2008-03-17T09:00:00.002-06:00

Does anyone do this, edit music? I really need to start! I have some fitness songs that are VERY LONG, and usually make me go overtime in my classes :( I want to start doing basic clips of music... you know, deleteing a minute from the end of a track. I'm sure it's very easy to do (and I even bet the MAC comes complete with these capabilities) unfortunately I'm still on a PC and don't think I have any software capable of such tasks.

I was googling this today and found Adobe Audition 2... it only comes with a free 30 day trial however. I only want to do *basic* edits though... so, could a free-ware type of this software do the job I'm trying to achieve?
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First time for everything!

2008-03-14T13:29:00.007-06:00

I finally sold not one but 2 items from my Etsy store yesterday!!!
(The Turquoise Beaded Drop necklace and the Asymetrical Heart Shell Y-Necklace.)
These are the first items I've sold from my Etsy store since I joined Etsy in October of 2007. I am so excited about this!

I think these two sales have inspired me to get back into my beading! (I need to get cracking though or this urge will pass! It always does!)

YAY for ETSY!
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Major pain!

2008-03-12T08:47:00.006-06:00

Since Monday night I can barely get out of a chair, or do a flight of stairs! It all started after the Squat track of my STRONG class at WSRC. I don't know what I did wrong (or right) but my thighs are in absolute PAIN since that class! I feel like I haven't worked out in years!!! (that or just raced in 24 hours of Adrenalin again!) It's been a long time since I've been this stiff from a workout... I wonder why? Was it because of the holiday? I don't know if I believe that, cause we did 2 long hikes while we were in Maui, it's not like I sat on the beach drinking Lava Flows* all day. And why is it just my thighs? The rest of my muscles feel great!
Why is my body turning on me???
And how can I get it to STOP?

* A Lava Flow, for those that have never had one, is a mixed cocktail: basically half strawberry daquiri, 1/2 pina colada... YUM!
A must to drink when in Maui, seriously!
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random hilarity: http://gofugyourself.typepad.com/go_fug_yourself/2008/03/fugtify-my-love.html
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New Yoga Clothes

2008-03-09T20:11:00.007-06:00

I have been feeling that none of my clothes fit right lately, and since I had Friday off I decided to check out some new stores that I've been meaning to check out: Body Things and LotusWear. (Body Things is mostly dance/fitness wear, and Lotus Wear is like Lululemon, all yoga wear)
I did very well! I found many cool tops from Body Things (all were on sale) and I I found a jacket that fit me! and pair of pants from LotusWear! Woot! I also forgot (DUHHH) that I get a 15% discount (because I am a fitness instructor) from Lululemon.... and I found out on Friday, that I also get 15% off at Body Things AND Lotus Wear!
(I guess being an instructor does have it's benefits!)
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Bitten by the Bug

2008-03-06T09:00:00.005-07:00

I think I have just been bitten by the travel bug!
All I can think about is "Where to go next?" It doesn't help the matter that I just got my raise and bonus, so when I returned from Maui I actually had more money in my bank account then I left with! (So in my mind, travelling MAKES you money ;) hehe!)

I'm surfing Flickr viewing other people's vacation photos, and WOW, our world is a beautiful place! Everywhere you go, has something beautiful to offer, seriously... you just have to LOOK to find it!
Like example, check out this picture I found today:
WOW! The water is so brilliant, it almost looks FAKE!

I think I want to do an African Safari someday... Oh my... that's a pretty BIG vacation compared to Maui!! Dream BIG :)

(and for more on my Maui trip, read my UPDATED post here!)
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Back, in full GLOW!

2008-03-04T14:24:00.005-07:00

I am back from my week in paradise (Maui) and it was absolutely fantastic! *Please check out my FLICKR page, as I am uploading more pics of Maui every night.* I had over 5GB of data(photos and videos) from my short 8 day vacation... can't even imagine what it would be like after a 2 week trip! ;)

Here's a little itinerary and commentary of what we spent out time doing for those 8 days:
Day 0 - Left Calgary and flew to Maui on Air Canada.. arrived in Maui at ~8pm loca time, got our rental car (convvertible Jeep with GPS navigation) and headed to our Hotel. Had a bit of an "Amazing Race" moment, when we couldn't find our room key (due to our late check in)... but in the end, my inquiring mind prevailed and we finally got into our room, plopped down our bags, and fell fast alsleep!
Day 1 - West Maui Drive/sight seeing - We decided to start our vacation off rather tame, with a drive around West Maui. Such cool sights, and a very interesting road also.
Day 2 - South Maui Hike - We drove south through Makena to the Makena State Park and to the Ahini-Kinau Natural Area Reserve. It was a scortching hot day, and we actually wanted to get to the Kings Highway, but only managed to complete half of the hike, due to the heat!
Day3 - Hana Highway - By far the BEST part of the trip for me!!! I loved this road, so narrow and curvy! I loved the scenery, so green and tropical! I loved the vendors on the side of the road (banana bread and fresh pinapple, YUM!) And when you actually get to Hana... you're in for a treat! Awesome day!
Day 4 - Haleakala Crater - We decided to hike into the crater... wow, what an impressive geological feature! This hike nearly killed us... the hitch-hiking at the end back to our Jeep was priceless!
Day 5 - Beach day and shopping - True relaxation and vacationing... we burnt ourselves pretty bad, was it worth it? Heck yes!
Day 6 - Lahaina and Iao Valley - This was another highlight of Maui for me... too bad Collin wasn't in the mood for any more walking around sight seeing, so I had to explore the valley on my lonesome. Very lush greenery, obviously one of the wetter areas of Maui. A must see!
Day 7 - Fly home to Calgary (Approximately 10 hours flight time). We sat in the airport lounge waiting for our 9:00pm flight, and wow, the Kahului airport has the WORST food avalible on the Island, hands down!!! I couldn't even drink my concerns away, because their Tropical drinks were equally as horrible!!! I DO NOT recommend spending any time at the airport pre-flight (also souveniers/duty free goods were lame there too... way better shopping at the markets around the Island!)

The Hat, and the Predicament

2008-02-22T17:08:00.004-07:00

Click here to see The Hat. I'll tell you the Predicament...
I found this wicked, funky hat on Etsy and which I had to get a second opinion on (should get it or not). I was in the middle of a conversation with the seller to BUY it, when another person snapped it up! I was saddned!
BUT, the seller offered to make me a custom order hat, but at a slightly higher cost! Chaching! I took her up on the offer, so now I get my hat! :)

What do you think of the hat?
Cool? Out there? Fun? Old-Lady?
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"What perfume are you wearing?"

2008-02-22T15:06:00.002-07:00

Is that really an appropriate question for the banking specialist to ask me, as he was assisting me with the paperwork required to make an RRSP contribution? It wouldn't have been so bad, if I wasn't wearing 2 perfumes with very provacotive names: "Pure Seduction" and "Baby Doll"... Once I said the answer, I all of the sudden felt all dirty! LOL I could tell it was a bit of an ackward moment! ...Collin told me "Next time lie and say you are wearing Cool Water for women!"
I think he's got a good point!
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Hiking and MAUI!

2008-02-19T14:06:00.011-07:00

Click on the map for more a better view of the hiking trails in Maui...
I am getting REALLY excited now! Only 1 FULL week left before we leave!
:-D
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The Blow-Off #2

2008-02-13T22:26:00.002-07:00

I had another potential renter just NOT SHOW up to our viewing tonight!
That's 2 no-shows in as many days!!!!

I'm not liking the attitude coming out of the people in this city! HOW RUDE!
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From now on, I only bend over backwards for my yoga instructor!

2008-02-12T16:21:00.000-07:00

How frustrating!
I made an appointment with a woman yesterday to view my condo (which I rent out) I told her I worked all day. Unfortunately she stated that she said she couldn't make it for an evening viewing... so I made an exception and took most of the afternoon off, for our 3:00pm showing.

She called at 1:50pm to cancel! Nice notice! She knew I was at work... and I just so happened to have had a lot of stuff to do at work before I could leave (since I was not going to be back for the afternoon) I didn't get her 1:50 cell phone message until I was already on the bus to meet her at the condo! ARGGGG!
What a piss off!

That's the last time I rearrange my schedule for someone I don't even know.
Live and learn, I guess.

This is what I dreaded about being a landlord.
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I heart green!

2008-02-11T14:28:00.000-07:00

I love the color green! My blog template is green, most of the clothes in my wardrobe is a shade of green (or matches with green), almost every eyeshadow I own is green... (ok, not really... those of you that know me, know that I own A LOT of eyeshadow! lol)

Speaking of which, I bought a NEW shade of green today... It's so new, it's not even on their website yet... It's a L'oreal HIP Bright Shadow Duo called riotous. (and for fun I also bought Reckless, 2 shades of purple*). They are just gorgeous colors! I think they give the colors of MAC a run for their money...
(But don't get me wrong, I **double heart** MAC!!!)

These pictures do the shades no justice!
They really are High Intensity Pigments!
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* purple is becoming the new green!!!

Stressful sleep

2008-02-08T08:58:00.000-07:00

I did not sleep well last night. My stomache was in knots and I went from too cold to too hot all night long! Even this morning, I woke up feeling nausious and just all around crappy! :(

I wish my body would just settle the heck down already... I'd love to go a whole week just feeling "normal"!
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Feeling MUCH better today!

2008-02-05T09:07:00.000-07:00

I felt like I was coming down with the flu yesterday. I woke up nausious, and by the end of the day my muscles were very sore and I had a massive headache! I took a hot bath last night, went to bed without a snack, and woke up this morning feeling as fresh as a daisy! Gotta love that feeling! (Unfortunately I didn't accomplish much last night :(

I am soo dieing to order some stuff off my favorite woman's fitness clothing website: Team Estrogen... but I'm so afraid of the extra fees (customs)!!! I hear they can almost be more then your actual order! Does anyone know how to avoid these fees?
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Scrabble, anyone?

2008-02-02T23:37:00.000-07:00

I have to thank my sister for my latest addiction. There is an application in Facebook that you can add called "Scrabulous" and my sister challenged me to a game (well, to be honest, she's been challenging me to games since we joined Facebook, but I've never entertained the idea until this weekend!)

I have three words: "So.Much.Fun!"
(yes, I'm a geek!)
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Allergies

2008-01-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

I'm allergic to cold temperatures.

No, it's true! My skin has an allergic reaction when it comes in contact with cold things and I break out in hives! This is not unheard of... In the medical world it goes by the term Cold Urticaria.

Well, today it flared up exceptionally bad! I had to wait for the bus for a good 20 minutes in -30oC (which feels like -38oC due to the wind chill) temperastures! The hair that was poping out of my scarf (that I was breathing) on literally turned into an icicle! I was scared to touch it, because I thought it might just SNAP off! My feet were popsicles when I got onto the bus, my fault for not wearing my Sorel's, I guess... And when I finally did get on the bus, the hives didn't let up... I was even hiving up underneth my jacket, on my shoulder where it was touching the bus window!!! (And let's not even talk about my hands! My joints are finally getting their mobility back now! 1 hour later!)

I kinda forgot how bad this condition can be when it's REALLY cold out... I'm glad it only flares up sporadically! If I felt like this everytime I went outside in cold weather, I'd have lost it by now! If that were the case, I'd definitely be moving to Hawaii! ;)
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Snow Day!

2008-01-29T11:37:00.001-07:00

I took a snow day today, I just don't think it's worth attempting to fight the snow drifts and freezing temperatures (-32oCelcius, but -44oC with the windchill!!!)
I don't have too much pressing work to do at work anyways... But I will check my email from home! (Working??)

I was given a book from my friend called "Maui Revealed" which is a guide book of the island of Maui written by the locals. It's great, and chock full of so much useful information (and maps!) This will be a great resource for planning our days activities!!!

(And trust me, with these temperatures I am SO ready to sit on a beach!!!)
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Facking Freezing!

2008-01-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

The temperature today is -31 degrees celcius
(but it feels like -48 degrees celcius with the windchill)

Why didn't I decide to work from home today?
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Snowboarding and SNOW!

2008-01-27T18:56:00.000-07:00

I had a pretty busy weekend!
Ken (my bother-in-law who will be staying with us for the next few months) arrived on Thursday night and my friend B. was in town and wanted to hang out this weekend. So, on Friday night, B. and I drank some vino (Fetzer Gewürztraminer, it's the BEST!) and had a really good visit. Saturday morning I had to teach my class in the AM (which I took B. to) and in the PM we'd planned to go snowboarding. (It was going to be Collin's first time on a snowboard!) We went to Nakiska, because it's only 30 minutes away from the west side of Calgary. The snow conditions weren't the best for learning to snowboard on though because it was fairly hard packed. (And Collin fell A LOT!) We only managed to get in 3 full runs before Collin threw in the towel and called it a day! (I was really proud that he managed to complete all 3 runs though without much complaining!!) And he will improve, we just need to go out to C.O.P. for a few evenings in February!
Today I went to GNC to pick up some Whey Protein powder, Active Woman's multi-vitamins and some Udo's 3-6-9 Oil. Hopefully, once my body get's used to all this goodness, I will start to loose some of my Christmas fluff. I just want to feel leaner for Maui. (I actually went in to GNC to buy a Fat Burner suppliment, but the lady who helped me, talked me into going this route instead. I do think it's probably the safer way to go, it's just a LOT more work!)
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Everyone's doing it, why can't we?

2008-01-25T09:34:00.000-07:00

So, I found out that an old friend of mine from Edmonton is going to be in Maui the same time as I am!?! And we are staying on the same side of the island!?!?! Seriously WEIRD!

I asked her what her plans were for her holiday... (they are going to be there for 2 weeks though... we are only going for 1!) It turns out we have very different itineraries for our holidays, but hopefully we can meet up one evening for a bite and drinks! (or maybe the Luau!)

Back to planning!.....

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Maui, it is!

2008-01-20T21:22:00.000-07:00

After doing a bit more research on flights and activities, I decided I really wanted to go to Maui! Nothing else seemed to have the activities we wanted to do (Our second choice was The Mayan Riveria but under the "Things to Do" section in the guide book it listed "club hopping, The Mayan Ruins, Shopping, swimming with the dolphins and the night life"... I mean the ruins and swimming with the dolphins sound like fun, but the rest I could live without. I don't plan on drinking or shopping my holiday away, that's for sure! (Ok, maybe a little bit of each ;)

Anyways, our trip is planned and MAUI, it is! I can't even believe it's true!
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Holiday! Celebrate!

2008-01-18T15:21:00.000-07:00

I am FREAKING OUT right now! Collin confirmed to me that he's allowed to take a week off of his holidays (paid) in February! So, we're going to MAUI!!! I'm so excited!!!
(OK, I thought we were going to Maui until I found out how much Maui costs! Holy crapola! The flight alone would be around $1700 per person! WTF? I had no idea Hawaii cost so much to get to! )

Currently, we have about a month to get all our shizz in order, so hopefully we figure out where we want to go and what we want to do by then... I'm thinking a Travel Agent is required for this trip, especially since neither Collin nor I has ever gone on an over-seas trip yet.
Anyone got any advice on travel agents?

Where ever we end up going, I know this is going to be a Bon Voyage!!!! :)
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Learn to love 'em!

2008-01-15T14:32:00.000-07:00

Diamonds, that is.
I was talking about my birthday gift to my friends at the gym today, explaining how diamonds aren't really my thing. One of the girls said "I used to be like you too thinking "Oh, Diamonds are too expensive! No Thanks!", but now I'm like "Bring it on! I love them now!" She then said "You'll learn to love them!"

I don't know. I think Diamonds are probably the most boring of the precious stones... I mean, they are clear... how b.o.r.i.n.g! I would much rather have a beautifully colored synthetic stone, one that I absolutely LOVE to look at on my finger... rather then a clear, boring diamond in my engagement ring!
Am I being naive here? What's the big deal about diamonds anyways???
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RELAX, people!

2008-01-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

I had to tell the people trying to get on the bus behind me today to "Relax!"... They were pushing to get on the bus like it was going to leave without them if they didn't. F*CK!!! I can't think of a worse way to start my day! ... well, at least I got a good seat once I was on.

I have to bring my car in for some minor body work tomorrow (remember the little fender bender I was in?). I was told the work should take 3 days to complete. So I get my car back on Thursday (or Friday) which is not a big deal since I don't have anything pressing to do this week anyways. (Except tonight, but that doesn't really matter.)

Collin and I are having a "2 and a Half Men" marathon these days. He bought me seasons 1 and 2 on DVD for my birthday. I really like that show... Not that I can relate to much of it, but it's just hilarious to watch! (Speaking of my birthday, Collin also got me a pendant similar to this one!) I'm spoiled! :)
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Beauty Blossoms

2008-01-11T21:46:00.000-07:00

Love him or hate him... Tom Cruise sure has a beautiful wife!!!

Katie sure has come a long way from her Dawson's Creek days!
(PS... I LOVE her hair in that bob! I think she stole the look from her daughter, Suri! Sooo cute!)

*UPDATE* January 14th, 2008... Katie was on "The David Letterman Show" tonight... and I've decided that she's only this pretty when she smiles without her teeth... They are a bit gangly in reality!! (Well, if you consider televison 'reality' LOL)
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busy beader

2008-01-10T10:53:00.000-07:00

I've been busy with my beads lately. I made a small drop pendant a few weeks back and decided I'd try to make it again, but BIGGER. This is what I came up with:

I used 6mm faceted pearl glass beads and size 8 seed beads.

I'm not sure what to hang it from yet... It's got 4 beads inside of it, so it's quite substantial!
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Math/Bead Geek? What's the connection?

2008-01-08T08:35:00.001-07:00

My mom found this website, that had me HOOKED for a long time Sunday night.
I am an avid beader and if any of you have seen my work, then you know I like to make small beaded bead type objects. Well, this website has taken making beaded beads and created a mathematical formula to making a beaded bead with a certain symmetry, or reflection about it's central axis. (I'm also a total science/rock geek, so this approach to my craft is very interesting to me! It actually reminds me of my University Mineralogy class, when we had to look at the crystalline internal structures of the different minerals we were studying.)

I am totally in LOVE with the pattern for what they call the "Double Rose Window" bead! (But I can't stomach paying $30 dollars for the pattern alone!) My mom and I think we've figured the patterns out, but we still have yet to apply what we think we have figured out! LOL
In due time.

Oh yeah, Sunday was my birthday, and I really wanted to get out Cross Country skiing... Collin and I finally made our way out to Kananaskis for our first ski of the year! (better late then never!) It was the perfect day for skiing... -3oC was the temperature. My wax worked perfectly! It was a really great day! (Anytime I can get Collin out moving is a great day! haha)
To view the pictures, click here!
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Sucking the teat!

2008-01-03T12:28:00.000-07:00

Collin and I rented the movie on New Years and I found the funniest scene ever!
If you want to understand my Title you might want to watch this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qJPs1_IAkw

Have you ever seen Ryan Seacrest so frazzled! Or swear so much??? OMG, now I can just see him once he cameras go to commercial on American Idol... all cute on camera, but off camera... straight up BITCH! :-P I love it!!!
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New Years Wishes!

2008-01-01T14:08:00.000-07:00

Sleeping with one nostril open

2007-12-28T08:03:00.000-07:00

I think I'm sick.
Last night I had the worst sleep ever! My right nostril would not stop running, to the point that I could not breathe out of it! And if I turned over onto my back, it would drain down my throat! YUK! I think I blew my nose about 10 times through the night!

After reading that.... YUP, I'm sick! :(

Damn you, BC weather!
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Nanaimo Time! Christmas Time!

2007-12-23T20:55:00.000-07:00

We finally made it to the island, after a very exciting winter journey along Higway 1 through Western Canada! We observed at least 8 cars in the ditch to some degree and at least 6 other vehicles completely flipped over! (I felt pretty fortunate that Collin's truck has 4x4 at that point!)

We left at 4:45am from Calgary and made it to the ferry terminal in Vancouver by 4:20 pm (I thought we made great time!) Unfortunately we missed the 5:00pm ferry sailing, and had to wait in the vehicle till 7:00 to board our ferry. (by that time, I had played way too much 'Parachute' on my iPod and my eyes were really blood-shot!)

When we finally got to Nanaimo, the kids were exstatic to see me (they wouldn't sleep till I arrived!) and I even heard Nolan exclaim "I missed you, Aunty!" (AWE!!!)

It's going to be a great 3 day visit, and I'm so glad we made the long trip to spend this time of year with my favorite island family! Unfortunately Collin has to return to work on Thursday so we have to make the 12 hour trip back home on Boxing Day. :( I'll be sad, but looking forward to my next opportunity to come back here! I know it will be sooner then I think :)

Merry Christmas to all! Hope you are all enjoying your family and friends!

Here's to a Happy New Year!
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"I don't want to work....

2007-12-19T14:23:00.000-07:00

...I just awant to bang on a drum all day!"
Well, really, I just want to be at home beading!!! I'm having withdrawl since my little frenzy of beading the other night! Oh well, maybe tonight while Collin is gone shopping!

PS. Last night I made this, and WOW, it was excellent! Collin ate it ALL up and I couldn't even finish my plate! Very filling, and great flavor! (Who doesn't love pasta and cheese???)
(My recipe mods: Rotini noodles instead of Fettucini I added fresh, crushed garlic to the sauce, and I also used 'Herb and Garlic' Creem Cheese instead of plain. Mmmmm!)
Also, check out how they cook the broccoli in this dish! They add it to the boiling pasta 2 minutes before it's done cooking, then drain... GENIUS! It worked out great, and was SO QUICK!!
If you make it, let me know how yours turns out! I gave this recipe 5 stars (out of 5!)
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4 more days!

2007-12-18T16:16:00.000-07:00

Only 4 more days till I'm in Nanaimo! Can you tell I'm pretty excited?

:)

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Beading Frenzy!

2007-12-16T21:17:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was really good, even despite my lingering cold.

Friday was my corporate Christmas party.
Here's a pic of Collin and I before the event got underway. (So cute! lol)

It was a good time, as always! Unfortunately Collin started not feeling very well after dinner, so we left earlier then I'd hoped... oh well, there's always next year! I was just stoked that I got to wear my new dress! It looked awesome!

Saturday I had to get up early (well, not really early, but early enough after drinking the night before) to teach Yoga. It was really tough, because when I woke up my cold was in full effect! Ugh! (It still hasn't really gone away. :( So much for my love affair with Echinachea! LOL) But Saturday night I had lots of time for beading, and I whipped up a few fun things! Have a look at my Flickr beading photo set for the photos.

Today, Collin and I went Christmas shopping. (Which I really wasn't looking forward to...) But to my surprise there were only a few stupid people out shopping today, and we got almost EVERYTHING we needed by 4:00PM! (WOOT! Power shopping!) And I absolutely LOVE the gift I got for my nephew... He's gonna love, love, LOVE it! (And well, if he doesn't love it, I'll surely keep it! hahaha)

T minus 6 days to Nanaimo!!! Can't wait to see my Island Family!
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Texas Donuts?!?

2007-12-12T13:14:00.000-07:00

Has anyone else heard of this? Apparently, the elementary schools in Calgary used to have a "Texas Donut day", where if the kids brought in some money, they could get a "Texas Donut" for lunch! (Think Texas Sized Donuts!!!!!...Wow, sounds like a super healthy and balanced meal!?! NOT!)
I remember having hot-dog days in Saskatchewan, but never donut days. What does that teach kids about proper nutrition? (Then again, do hot-dog days teach them much more?)
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BUSY Christmas Sunday

2007-12-10T08:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the busiest day of the weekend for me. Collin, his mom, sister and I all headed to Edmonton to meet up with all his aunts, uncles and cousins to decorate his Grandmother's Christmas tree and wish her a very Merry Christmas! (She has ALWAYS wanted the tree in the front of her house decorated for Christmas, so all the cousins banded together this christmas to make that dream become a reality!)
She was absolutely shocked when she saw the tree come to life in the front yard! (Pics to come!!!) She was brought to tears when she realized that all of her kids and grandkids were behind it!

It was awesome to be able to help be a part of something like that... She's a very strong and caring woman who deserves the best! We all support you and love you, Grandma Sabourin!
Have a very Merry Christmas!
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My First WHITE hair!!!

2007-12-05T08:37:00.001-07:00

Today as I was getting ready for work, I found (and quickly proceeded to PLUCK!) my first WHITE hair! I know what you are thinking, that's normal! OK, but it wasn't found on my head... try, below the belt!!! I was shocked! I had NO idea that THOSE hairs turned white as you age also!!!
OMG... I just got a mental picture of Santa Claus.... NAKED! Bwahahaha
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Echinacea, I think I love you!

2007-12-04T14:40:00.000-07:00

I have been taking Echinacea capsules with my cleanse pills for the past 2 weeks... I'm sure that's what kept me from getting that cold that was brewing! My body reacts really good to Echinacea! It must be a very powerful herb!

I've been on an Ebay tear lately. So far I've won 5 items in the past 10 days! (2 of them are Christmas gifts though, but the others are for me :) Ebay is great, I've decided I only like shopping when I'm in the mood for it. And lately I'm just not in the mood for it; the crowds, the line-ups, the crowds! Ugh... I'd much rather shop in the comfort of my own house! (Hence the rise (and fall) of the Shopping Channel. Now, we've got Ebay for that!)
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Car-Zilla!

2007-12-03T15:24:00.000-07:00

A picture I took of an art car got a shout out on another blog today...
Go have a read... well, if you can read German! HAHAHA!

Hello SNOW!

2007-12-03T11:49:00.000-07:00

Collin and I decided to head out to Banff last night to visit with my best friend and her husband who were staying at the Banff Springs Hotel for a weekend get-away! (I figured it was easier to drive an hour and a half to see her now then wait and have to drive 6.5 hours to Cold Lake to see her later!!!) I checked the weather reports and they said that the roads were good... only a few icy patches near Canmore. It seemed like a good report, so off we went.
Collin was driving my car. (I am very comfortable with his driving in winter conditions... he's got a lot of experience with it!) But wow... white out conditions (due to the snow plows ahead of you) is enough to make even Collin a bit uneasy! The snow started to fall as we hit Canmore, and we ended up stopped behind an accident near Canmore (where the icy patches were supposed to start) for almost an hour! We finally were let to pass and then proceeded to miss our Banff turn off! (It was just so dark and snowy out, you couldn't see signs or roads!!!) We even almost missed our turn off back to Banff! What a gong show!
We finally arrived in Banff and got to meet up with Rae and Damon. It was nice to see them and we decided to go to The Keg for dinner. We got stuffed!
But as we were talking and eating the snow kept falling, which made the drive home just as interesting as the drive out. Luckily there were no accidents on the way back to Calgary so we made it home by 11:00pm.
All I can say is that when I finally got home and let my head hit the pillow I had to say a prayer that we made it home alright and in one piece! I hate bad weather driving!!!
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Brother-in-Law

2007-11-29T08:53:00.000-07:00

We got a nice (but short) visit from my brother-in-law last night as he is in Calgary for a work related seminar. He has also never seen our new place, so this was his first visit! Unfortunately I didn't get to spend a tonne of time with him since I didn't get home till 7:15pm (I taught a class!) But it was alright; Because I wasn't home to cook we ordered in from BP's. :) (Yeah, I know! I'm not really following my cleanse diet anymore... oops!)

Speaking of the cleanse, has anyone ever tried Silk? (Soy Beverage, like milk?) OMG, it's very good! (Eventhough I've heard differing opinions about the health benefits of ingesting unformented soy products...) In small doses, it can't hurt?!? Seriously... try it for breakfast with puffed wheat/millet/rice and fresh strawberries... DEVINE!
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Recycling Scammer

2007-11-28T13:21:00.000-07:00

Since moving into my new house, I've been excited about the prospects of having community curbside recycling. Unfortunately, Calgary isn't installing a City Wide program like this till 2009 (rednecks much???) But there is a small local buisnesses within Calgary that do offer recycling services. (I googled to find it. Maybe that was my first mistake! I have too much faith in the internet!! I won't even post the link... that would be like Free advertising for them!) I looked over their list of items they recycle, and I was pleased that they took so many things (including Pizza Boxes, WOW!) Also, they accepted payments via Paypal! ("Sweet, I can pay now and have my recycling picked up next week!"... was my thinking.)
WRONG!
Apparently, I overlooked the "Areas that they service" and unfortunately my area does not fall in their jurisdiction. :(
So WHY didn't the company look at my address right off the bat, and realize I was out of their area of service and quickly rectify the situation and NOT accept my payment?

I have to go through this stupid rigamaroll now in order to get my money back, and they want to take all these service fees off the top! BOGUS! I really am mad about this. Last night I fired him off a rather lengthy email yesterday explaining my distaste for the situation and how it's been handled thus-far... I will be in contact with a higher power soon. Hopefully he's not such a d*ck...

No music!

2007-11-24T22:44:00.000-07:00

I am not a yoga instructor... I teach Breathe, which is a fusion class of Tai-Chi, Yoga, Pilates and Meditation. We use music to keep the beat, and to keep our choreography flowing.

I teach most every Saturday morning. This morning was no different. I walked into the studio (my class is after a TKO class) and the previous instructor tells me "The speakers aren't working... I don't think the stereo is working at all!"

OMG! Now, I'm a little freaked... what am I going to do?!?

What could I do?!? Send the members away? NO! ...I improvised without music!!! I felt like a true yoga instructor! I have never taught a class in silence before, the only sound was me talking... no wonder yoga instructors start sounding so monotone and repetitive.
"Inhale, reach up to extended mountain. Exhale, forward fold.
Inhale to lunge. Exhale, downdog."

I was pretty proud of myself for making it through the class without a hitch. I guess that just shows my many years of experience shining through. :)
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Burnt Nuts

2007-11-22T22:04:00.000-07:00

I went shopping for some more groceries to make another batch of Gypsy Soup, and I found a 1kg bag of almonds in the baking section for $12.99... such a good deal, so I bought it! When I got them home I opened the bag, and realized they were raw almonds (soft in the middle) so I figured I could dry roast them myself, in the oven! I googled how to roast almonds and found this great site. I followed the instructions but thought that cooking them only 10 minutes left the almonds still soft in the middle. I decided to put them back in... but for WAY TOO LONG, and ended up burning them! (...Probably 3 quarters of the bag! DUMB ME!)

Oh well... live and learn!

Maybe I should just stick to buying the dry roasted ones... (despite the fact that they cost twice as much!)

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Cleansing

2007-11-22T10:02:00.000-07:00

I started taking my cleanse pills a day early (on Sunday) because I ended up buying a different cleanse kit then my friends did. (Theirs is only a 12 day kit, mine is a 15 day one) The pills smell so repulsive that I gag everytime I take them! (No wonder they tell you to take them on an empty stomach!!!) I think that's the worst part of this cleansing thing... the diet really isn't that bad. I am still allowed to eat a lot of things I would normally eat anyways.

I had my yearly physical yesterday. :( I hate the weighing in part! My doctor humored me by starting off the weight on the scale very light... but unfortunately the big dial at the bottom had to be moved. :( *tear*.

This was the look on my face as I was weighed yesterday!

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Coughing Fits!

2007-11-20T09:05:00.000-07:00

I have not been getting to sleep very easily the past 2 nights. As soon as I lay down, I start getting a tickle in my throat and end up in a complete coughing fit! Last nigth Collin was ready to kill me, I'm sure... so I went downstairs and had a swig of cough medicine and layed on the couch till I was too tired to cough anymore.

But then I wake up in the morning with no cough (not even a sore throat really)... what is going on? I've started taking my multi-vitamin and Echinachia in hopes that it will help me fight whatever it is that I seem to have... but so far, it's happened 2 nights in a row. Let hope tonight won't be the same.
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Gypsy Soup

2007-11-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

I have had the items to make this soup for almost a month... so I decided, since I'm starting my cleanse tomorrow, I'd finally make it . Well, If I can make it, anyone can make it! And it turned out GOOD!!
I've even scanned the recipe for those of you who want to try it! (I actually used crushed tomatoes from a can, instead of Step 1)
Good Luck!!!
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