Musings of L. Michelle

Cobalt::By Katy Rose of Modly Chic

2012-01-27T13:46:00.001-06:00

Cobalt by katyrose1 featuring strap shoes

I absolutely LOVE every single thing on this page. Ya'll know BLUE is my color!!!

Getting Back Into the Swing of Things

2012-01-26T13:28:00.001-06:00

I am trying to get back on my A-game all the way around, meaning that I will blog more and plan out my posts and comment on other's posts and all that jazz. I have realized that I am not a superwoman and I can't do it all, but I do need to do better. This also means that I need to do better with my actual dressing. Currently the only time I actually TRY to dress up is when I have to go into the office or when I go to church. It almost feels WEIRD dressing up now, and I don't like that at all!! That's not ME!
I usually work from home, but I have committed to go in to the office at least twice a week. That will be very helpful because for the past seven months, I have been mainly working from home. Nothing like getting up in the morning, taking a shower and putting pajamas back on before the first conference call!

This past week, I have been training for my Project Management Professional certification (PMP) and it has been MIND BOGGLING, however I have made a conscious effort to dress very nicely this week, so much that one of the attendees of the class started calling me Princess LaTanya..I'll take it. LOL

My three fashion goals for the next few months:

1. Make a conscious effort to dress out of the box everytime I leave out of my house.
2. Find bold, bright, vibrant colors to wear for the spring/summer.
3. Find bold statement necklaces and get used to wearing them.
4. Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize!! Scarves, bracelets, flowers, oh my!

Have you set any fashion goals? What are they?

Finding Love Through Faith

2012-01-25T10:00:00.000-06:00

Source

When I first met my boyfriend, Q, I will admit I had some ~~millions of~~ trust issues.

Part of it is because the last real relationship that I had was horrible. I was stuck on stupid and no one could tell me anything bad about my ex. There was hurt and pain that I endured in that relationship that I don't think any of my friends fully realize, but with a lot of prayer and tears, I was able to move past that relationship...to the rebound guy.

The rebound guy was great but we put each other through a lot of unnecessary drama that neither of us deserved. The rebound guy was a good guy though and he was in my life when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, so as a result of this, he quickly became the best friend/confidant...homie lover friend, if you will. Enough about him though....that's the past.

I remember last year, wanting more for my life and not knowing how to go about getting it. You know the funny thing about life is that we always try to control so many aspects of our life...talk to our friends...they don't have an answer, talk to strangers, they don't have an answer, but finally at some point, the light bulb goes off and we (well ME) finally realize the power of prayer.

I am blessed to attend a great church with a great pastor that teaches in a way that all can understand. Many times, my pastor has told us to keep a prayer journal...a journal where you actually write out your prayers so that when God blesses you, you can go back and write the date that God answered your prayers so that when you are feeling down, you can go back through your prayers and blessings and know that God is on your side.

For the longest time, I fought doing that (letting the devil occupy my thoughts) and then I watched the movie "Letters to God." If you haven't seen the movie, be forewarned that it is a tear jerker but it is very well written. The synopsis is such, "A young boy fighting cancer writes letters to God, touching lives in his neighborhood and community and inspiring hope among everyone he comes in contact. An unsuspecting substitute postman, with a troubled life of his own, becomes entangled in the boy's journey and his family by reading the letters. They inspire him to seek a better life for himself and his own son he's lost through his alcohol addiction."

After watching this movie, I decided to give it a try, this writing my prayers down thing....and when I tell you, after I met Q and some things were confirmed to me...and I was one day going back through my journal and saw the prayer that I wrote to God two months before I met Q, I was amazed.

I thought about my prayer journal a few days ago when I was having my pity party and decided to pull it out tonight and look back over my prayers...and although they are few, they are great and God has answered them either in a way that was pleasing to me, or one that I didn't expect. I am filled right now.

Do you have a prayer/affirmation journal that you keep?

Sh*t Fashion Girls Say

2012-01-24T10:20:00.000-06:00

If you haven't heard one of the Sh*t....Girls/Boys/Gays Say, you've had to have been hiding under a rock!

There are literally hundreds of these videos popping up what seems to be daily!

My favorite by far was Chesaleigh's "Sh*t White Girls Say, to Black Girls" because hit home for me in a lot of ways. I read around the blogosphere that a lot of white folks were offended but it....but probably because it's mostly true. I will blog about that video at another time.

Today, a video popped up in my timeline that I hadn't seen, and it's fashion related! I chuckled a bit when I watched it and I immediately thought of one of my favorite movies, The Devil Wears Prada.

Yes, we fashion girls can be a bit stereotypical! I love it! Enjoy! *snaps*

The Look for Less::Convertible Dresses

2012-01-23T10:00:00.000-06:00

Ashley Stewart's 10-way Dress

One thing that I have noticed as I begin to explore this plus-sized fashion world is that clothes seem to be way more expensive!!

There are so very notable designers that have less than affordable pieces. I mean, I do understand about quality and how a small business is different from a large retailer, but what about the consumer?

There is one very well respected plus sized designer that has the most gorgeous pieces, but they are just a little too expensive for me to justify (to myself) paying for. As a result, even though a season late, I have found a very comparable piece at Ashley Stewart!

A good friend of mine has this dress in blue and it is GORGEOUS, I am trying to figure out which color I want, as it comes in seven great colors!

It is currently available on the Ashley Stewart website only for $59.99, a steal compared to being over $200 in other places! I so wish we had an Ashley Stewart here in Austin, or even in San Antonio, currently the closest one is in Houston!

Becoming a Fashionista

2012-01-22T10:00:00.000-06:00

Curvy Christmas Photoshoot 2011

In the last few years, I have really began to come into my own style. It's funny, because prior to this "new" me, I was a jeans, polo, and sneakers type...but now, I love my dresses and my heels.

I had a conversation a few days ago with an ex and he commented on how when we were together, I never wore heels even though he begged me. (That's another post for another day). I told him he should have been patient and waited! But he didn't and now someone else is reaping the benefits! Alas!

I don't know exactly when the change started happening but I think it had something to do with being diagnosed with breast cancer and losing my hair. When my hair started growing back, I felt the need to accessorize, wear makeup, and just try my hardest to look extra fly to make up for not having any or very little hair.

Now I have three closets full of clothes and shoes, I actually wear makeup, and I am slowly adding to my accessories. It's interesting seeing this transition, and I am excited about continuing to come into my fashion sense.

When you look good, you feel good, and I am challenging myself to look good each day!

RIP Etta James

2012-01-22T02:23:00.000-06:00

We have lost some iconic performers in the last few years, and it's always so sad...because with the current state of music..I don't know if my children's, children will even be able to appreciate what good, quality music is.

I still can't wait to dance to "At Last" at my wedding. RIP Etta James....your music transcended color lines.

"You smiled, you smiled...oh and then the spell was cast...and here we are in Heaven...for you are mine....AT LAST."

Another year older....

2012-01-21T21:12:00.000-06:00

Five days ago, I turned 35....I received a LOT of greetings on Facebook and a handful of text messages. Prior to my birthday, everyone kept asking what my plans were...my birthday is usually planned, themed, and full of fun...but this year, I just didn't have it in me. I didn't WANT to celebrate, but I made myself get dressed and met three dear friends for dinner at Maggiano's.
For a lot of people, it's hard to understand why I am not excited about turning 35. I try to verbalize it, but they still don't understand.
I am not happy with where I am in my life right now. That's the bottom line.
I should be in a different place and where I currently am is no one's fault but my own. All I can do is pray, and that's what I will do.

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I can not change.

Courage to change the things I can...and the Wisdom to know the difference.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

2012-01-19T23:38:00.001-06:00

Follow me on Pinterest

I LOVE Pinterest!!!! Where has it been all of my life? I go on there first before I google recipes. I am helping my sister to keep up with her wedding ideas. I am getting inspiration for how to organize my home!! I love it! Feel free to follow me!

Some of my current pinboards:

Life::Here I add pins that just make me feel some kind of way (good, bad, indifferent) when I see them.

Yummy::Recipes and food ideas

Ideas for my sister's wedding::She got engaged on 12/31/11 and she's turned into a Bridezilla already!

Home ideas::One day I will get the nerve and money to paint and make my house a home!

Plus Size Fashion::Fashion ideas that I like!

Inspiration 2012::My virtual inspiration board for 2012

Style Ideas::Accessories and other ideas other than clothes.

Healthy::Healthy food recipes and tips

Drink Ideas::Drink recipes! Alcoholic and non-alcoholic

Have you hopped on the Pinterest bandwagon yet? If so, what are your thoughts?

When a Blog Goes Private....

2012-01-02T20:42:00.000-06:00

Source

I have been around the blogosphere for a hot minute, so I have read about numerous marriages, divorces, deaths, births, weight loss, weight gain...I think you get the picture.
I won't say that I comment on all of these blogs, but I have when the feeling hit, whether to offer congratulations or condolences, or just to...you know...comment... LOL

So, a few weeks ago TWO blogs that I have followed for at least two years decided that it was time to go private. For some reason this pissed me off sooooo much. One of them was truly a lifestyle blog and she shared a lot of things about her life and her family. It was so interesting! I could relate with some things, and others I couldn't but just really enjoyed her updates on her life. Then one day, she posted a really vague post and them BAM, blog is private.

UGH!

In a way I feel betrayed because I think that the blogger should have given more consideration to her followers. Another blog that I follow, whenever she wants to post a private post, she just password protects it, and you have to request the password from her if you want to read it. I think that this is a great idea because if you want to say something that you don't want the masses to see, you don't have to.

Granted, each of our blogs are our own business and our own prerogative to do whatever we want to do with them, but I just think it's wrong to cut off people that have prayed for you, with you, and been your e-cheerleaders!

Okay, I'm done. LOL

Happy New Year!

The Look::Style Watch

2011-12-21T14:00:00.000-06:00

Shoe Dazzle::Maxella

This past weekend, I had a photoshoot...the photographer was outstanding!

If you are in or around the Austin area and need professional pictures done, check out Photos by Minh!

We had a great time! But the best part of the shoot...was at the end when he told me that he HAD to get a shot of the shoes :o)

Did you get glitter shoes this season?

Where I've Been....

2011-11-28T17:08:00.001-06:00

Source

Wow. I can't believe that I haven't blogged since August!!! See...what had happened was......I am so ashamed...because I said I would NEVER let a relationship take me away from the things that I love to do best...blog...cook...hang with friends...etc...but yes...ya girl got a man..ya heard?? Things ain't been right with me since June! LOL

Back in May, around Memorial Day weekend, one of friends, Andrea, was telling me about alllll of the dates she was getting from this online dating site, BBPeopleMeet, now I've tried SEVERAL sites...eHarmony (during free preview weekends), Match, and Black Singles just to name a few...and I would either meet the SAME sex-starved losers...or I would get hits from old, white, senior citizens...just no luck at all. So Andrea told me to let her dress up my profile greeting and she assured me that I would get hits. Here is what my profile greeting said:

A little about me...
I am a curvaceously round plus sized woman with a good self esteem and I love my curves, I know you do too. I need a man who wants me the way I am and knows how to treat me like a lady. I know how to keep you laughing, provide great conversation, and I am the woman who your friends and family will love. Please stop trying to control me, I will not change for you, treat me like a proper woman because I am looking for the right man, and not just someone who wants to keep me in the house. This doesn’t just mean someone to have sex with, that’ll happen in time if your game is tight enough. I am looking for a man that I can hang out with…you know?? I like to go to the movies, the park, church, and family outings.
I am a professional woman who has her stuff together, you should too, treat me like a lady and you’ll be happy with the results.
About the one I'm looking for...
I am looking for a man that exhibits qualities that compliment mine. The man that I am looking for knows what he wants and knows what it takes to get it. Are you that man?
I'd just like to add...
Are you ready for what a true woman has to offer? If so, hit me up, I will not let you down.
Please don't waste my time by contacting me if you are already in a relationship.
That was it...A little risque and truly out of my normal comfort zone..but get this..IT WORKED.....A few of my friends ask why did I choose BBPeopleMeet over any of the other sites...well I see it like this...I am a curvy, plus sized diva...and a LOT of men can't handle all that I have to give...but on a size specific site, at least that part is already outta the way...know what I mean?

Have you ever tried online dating?? What sites? Did it work??

A Few Recent Purchases

2011-08-05T00:18:00.000-05:00

My name is LaTanya and I am a shopaholic.

The following items will be delivered within the next few days and I can not WAIT.

Now...this is not all that I've purchased...I also went to Nordstrom Rack today and purchased four dresses...now I have some new items for The Look: Sunday's Best.

I have been wanting an animal print shoe for quite some time now, and the stars aligned and I was able to snag this beauty off of JustFabulous for half off the regular price!! #win

Janna -- JustFab

My new job requires that I have a laptop with me at all times, and as a result...as any diva would, I decided that I needed a wheeled laptop bag...but for L. Michelle...it couldn't be just any old boring, black bag...no way..no how..I wanted something that would professionally stand out and that's what I found in this adorable McKlein bag. This bag can be found online in a few different places, however I found the best deal on Overstock.

McKlein Blue Glen Ellyn

What recent purchases have you made??

Top 20 Brands for Curvy Girls

2011-07-26T09:52:00.001-05:00

Rani Zakhem

Checking my email this morning, I came across this list from Essence and decided to go through it see what it had to offer...you know, what clothing lines can I discover to wreak more havoc on my non-existent budget.

Curvy girls have been getting more recognition in the media and it seems that retailers are finally beginning to cater towards us. No more mu-mus!

Please make sure that you check sizing conversions if you choose to shop one of the stores that are outside of the US. There is a difference between a US 22 and a UK 22.

One thing that I found interesting about this list is that it didn't include IGIGI or Kiyonna, which I feel both changed the game for curvy figures here in the US...at least I know that it did for ME!

What do you think about these designers? Have you shopped at any of these stores? There were a lot of them that I was not familiar with that I will be perusing.

The italicized descriptions are from the article.

1. Forever21+ -- “Also known as Faith 21, this fast fashion label is all about trend-savvy, youthful clothes at a budget price point. Find this online and at Forever 21 stores nationwide. Pieces are available in XL to 3X.”

2. Carmakoma -- “This ‘rock-chic’ line is from Denmark. It is an edgy, small brand created by a design duo. It has affordable price points and is available in sizes 12-22. For now you can only buy this online.”

3. Svoboda Denim -- “This full size range collection offers higher rises and high end fabrics just for plus women’s bodies. They offer current denim trends in sizes 6 through 28, in petite average and tall.

4. Yours Clothing -- “This UK based clothing line offers trendy day to night pieces at budget price points. It ships internationally and is sold in sizes 12 to 30.”

5. Tadashi Shoji -- “This special occasion line offers fabulous gowns for important events in your life. Shoji offers luxe high end details at a high-end price point. It’s available at Saks, Bloomingdales and Nordstrom in sizes 14-24.”

6. Stefanie Bezaire -- “This Indie Plus designer produces eco friendly clothes out of sustainable fabrics. It has a great fit with a vintage vibe. Buy this online at contemporary price points. This Canada-based line comes in sizes 12-20.”

7. Hope & Harvest -- “Hope & Harvest is an Australian line. They are known for their young, modern designs which will take you ‘from desk to dinner.’ They inject a retro vibe at contemporary price points. Find them in size 14 through 26.”

8. Style 369 -- “This brand is owned by Arcadia group and is part of the Evans brand. You can consider it a junior plus line, which is more trendy than Evans. It offers fast fashion at a mid-range price. Celeb Haley Hasselhoff is the face of this label. You can buy it online only, and it comes in sizes 10-22.” (L. Michelle: Website states that this brand offers through size 26)

9. Inspire by New Look -- “This UK based collection offers chic finds at budget prices. It’s available online only and ships internationally. Find pieces in sizes 14 to 24.”

10. Rachel Pally -- “This line is sold at Bloomingdales and Saks and at RachelPally.com. Find strong, jersey dresses with bold prints in sizes 1X to 3X.”

11. Rani Zakhem -- “Zakhem offers high-end designs and fits for the curvy bodies. Her designs are elegant with a high-end feel. Buy Zakhem’s pieces in sizes 10 to 24 at luxury price points.” (L. Michelle: Designer is a male.)

12. Simply Be -- “This is one of Britain’s best loved plus size brands. They offer everything from easy dresses to wide-width boots to lingerie. Find pieces within the line from size 10 to 28.”

13. Anna Scholz -- “Sholtz’ collection is about strong fits, amazing prints and great price points. Find it online in sizes 8 to 24.” (L. Michelle: Website states that this brand begins at size 12)

14. ASOS Curve -- “This trend driven collection does a great job for the plus woman – all at affordable price points. Get sizes 16 through 22 with this collection at ASOS online.”

15. Damn You Alexis -- “This fashion forward line, based out of Sydney, Australia, is all about strong shapes and quality craftsmanship. They also offer luxe fabrics for style savvy clients who are sizes 14-22.”

16. Monif C. -- “Monif C. is known for the ‘Marilyn’ dress which is convertible and can be worn many ways. The label, which is based in NYC, also offers an amazing swim collection, vivid colors and bold prints. The designer incorporates lots of vintage details influenced by her growing up in Barbados. You can find this online for sizes 1X to 3X.”

17. Evans -- “Evans is a great collection of basics,accessories, shoes and lingerie. You can purchase this online and at retail stores throughout the UK. Sizes range from 10 to 28.”

18. Fashion to Figure -- “This line is designed by H&M and is currently available online and at H&M stores in the tri-state area. Find sizes 12 through 26 in this trendy, budget friendly line.”

19. Jibri -- “Jibri is a U.S. based label designed by Jasmine Elder. Its all about urban, sleek designs at a solid price point. You can get this online and at selected boutiques throughout the U.S. Get this in sizes 14 through 24.”

20. T-Bags -- “This popular contemporary designer just expanded into plus! Their plus collection is available at Saks and Bloomingdsles and pieces are available in sizes 14 through 24.”

A little bit of this and that!

2011-07-25T20:03:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone! I hope all is well. I am going to ease back into be a blogger. I have just been galavanting all across the US and its territories (Puerto Rico was a blast!!), got a new job and a new man and have just neglected BOTH of my blogs!!! For shame, for shame!!!!

I got my ear pulled today by a loyal follower that made me feel bad, so I wanted to come and at least post SOMETHING!

I will start with my meal for today since I am uber excited. Right this moment, and listening to the snap and crackle that only comes with something being FRIED!!! OMG. I have not had any substantial (read: home cooked) fried food since JANUARY!!! This trying to eat right thing, whew!! I have maintained though and tonight, I am going to indulge in a little fried chicken and turnip greens that I cooked yesterday.

I didn't mind giving up frying foods at home but it's been incredibly difficult trying to get back into doing it. The first time, I had flour and no grease. Then I had grease and no flour. Tonight I got it right and it was GOOD.

Have you ever given up a food that you loved and then when you went back to it it was better than ever? My chicken was so good that I burnt my lip. LOL!

The Look: First Day at Work

2011-06-27T22:28:00.000-05:00

I'm back, just as promised on yesterday!

Today, I started a new job as the Regional Planning Specialist for Connected Nation/Connected Texas.
Right now I am in Kentucky and learning all about my new role.

This morning I had to catch a 6:00 a.m. flight from Austin to Nashville, and I didn't know if I would have time to check into my hotel before reporting to work at 10:00, so I went ahead and dressed for work. It was awkward being in the airport with so many people that were clearly vacationing and I was dressed nicely.
But I got over it!

I am going to try to post my outfits for the next few days. *fingers crossed*

Here's what I chose to wear on my first day with Connected Nation.

The Look:
(excuse the bluetooth *eyeroll*)

Specs: Kam Dhillon Chocoholic -- CoastalContacts.com

Tunic: Purple Cowl Neck Lace Tunic -- Lane Bryant (can be found on eBay now)

Belt: ?? old

Pants: Right Fit -- Lane Bryant

Shoes: Olsenboye 'Union' Pump -- J.C. Penney

Sunday's Best: Friendship!

2011-06-26T22:42:00.001-05:00

I'm alive! Got a new job! Starts tomorrow! Will tell you more this week, I promise!! Gotta fly to Kentucky in the morning and I haven't packed a thing!

Today, I had the pleasure of dining with my childhood friend Kim!
Kim and I have been friends since KINDERGARTEN!! Can you believe it?? We haven't seen each other since 1995ish (Graduation), so it was really great to see her and catch up, even though I did most of the talking (sorry Kim!)

We had breakfast at a true Austin gem, Kerbey Lane Cafe! We ate at the original location that's actually on Kerbey Lane. The service was subpar, but the food was EXCELLENT! The Lemon Poppyseed Pancakes was off the chains! *Kicking myself now for not taking a picture of the pancakes*

But anyway, here's today's "Best"! Excuse the crazy look, the Texas Sun was in my eyes!

The Look

Cardigan: Target

Dress: Jessica Howard Woman (Dillard's) --OLD

Shoes: Madden Girl (DSW)

Sunday's Best: Curve Appeal

2011-06-12T19:47:00.001-05:00

Finally! A Sunday's Best!

For the past few Sunday's I have forgotten and left my camera at home, so I was unable to get someone to snap my picture after church and I just haven't learned how to use the timer and tripod to my liking.

But today's a new day!

While I didn't get a picture of the outfit that I wore to church (left the memory card at home, D'oh!), I did attend an open house event with Project Curve Appeal. I even got my hair semi blown out for the occasion. It's always amazing to me how much my hair has grown out in just a few short years!

Have a great week!

The Look:

Tunic: eci woman, New York::Dillard's. It's hand beaded and I love it!
Pants: Tanjay::Dillard's

Shoes: Carlos Santana, Curiosity in Pewter

Happy Wednesday!

2011-06-08T07:54:00.000-05:00

My #2 Favorite Flower, the Sunflower
Source

Hello everyone! I hope all is well in blogland! I have been soooo out of the loop! But I had a moment and I wanted to come through and give a quick update as to what has been going on in my life:
Work: I am in the process of looking for another job. I currently work for a state agency that will be doing a reduction in force (RIF) sometime in the next thirty days. Our current staffing level is over 900 and the cap that is placed on the agency by the most recent approved budget from the Texas Legislature is 795. That's a lot of people, and I don't like the waiting game. You know? I am being proactive in my search. I have had interviews with one company that I am waiting to hear back from. So, keep your fingers crossed!

Travel: I went to New Orleans this weekend for the very first time. I know, I know! Everyone can't believe that I had never been to "The Big Easy," but for some reason, when I was in college, I decided to go to the Freaknik in Atlanta instead of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. LOLOL But at any rate, I had a very good time in New Orleans. I was there for a Sorority conference and had to make sure to handle the business of Zeta first, but when it was time to unwind, I did! Next up is a quick trip to Dallas to see R. Kelly and Keisha Cole in concert and then the big one in July....PUERTO RICO!

Weight Loss/Exercise: Sadly, I haven't been back to the gym since my last trainer decided to bail on me! But that was because I was preparing for Memorial Day and then to go to New Orleans. So, I've only missed a week. This week is still young and I will make sure to get my three in before the week is over...*looking at the calendar* LOL This is the reason that I need a trainer...for accountability. I get off super early on Friday, so that'll probably be one of my days. To date, I have lost a total of 18 lbs. and boy does it show in the clothes that I wear.

Relationships: I don't think that I've talked much about my relationships on here, because in a few ways I am a private person. But I decided to do a little online dating just to see what was out there. I've conversed extensively with one guy. He's pretty cool and we will be meeting up this weekend, hopefully. So, we'll see where this goes.

Fashion: OMG I haven't shopped in so long. Partially because of all of these trips that I am taking back to back! But I have definitely been paying attention to fashion trends and what's hot and what's not. I have a $10.00 certificate to DSW that has to be used by 6/19, so I will definitely be going in for that. I have an idea of some sandals that I would like to buy. Maybe I will go by DSW on my way to/from the gym on Friday. LOL
Oh yeah, I almost forgot...have you all ever heard of Project Curve Appeal? Project Curve Appeal is an organization dedicated to correcting "the distorted perception of curvier women around the world, while empowering, educating and motivating them to celebrate their beauty, embrace their curves but also live a healthy lifestyle." Check out the website if this is something that interests you, check to see if there's a chapter in your city. I have filled out my application to join and I am just waiting on my next steps...one of which includes a model call on this Sunday...can you say NERVOUS? If you decide to look more into Curve Appeal and decide to join, please use my name as a referral (LaTanya Tatum).

So, I think that's about it...what's going on with YOU?

Disappointment

2011-05-26T07:25:00.000-05:00

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Hey everyone! Happy Thursday! One more day until a three day weekend!

I am angry. This has been an overall crappy week.
I had to curse somebody out via FB (totally out of my character), but it was much needed and I doubt she'll cross my path again soon. I can be the nicest person in the world until you cross that line...then I turn into something that I don't like becoming. LOL
I'm MS'n. *eyeroll* (think PMS, the after part LOL)
I'm tired of hearing about Oprah and Arnold "The Sperminator" Schwarznegger.
But most of all, I am tired of switching personal trainers!!!!!!!!!

Yesterday I went in for my weekly session with my trainer Brian, you remember him..the one that I really really liked. Really motivating and really pushed me to my full potential. I don't know if I told ya'll that...but Brian was absolutely AWESOME.

So, yesterday after a grueling session, when we get ready to schedule my next appointment, I tell him that I won't be in next week because I am going to New Orleans for a conference. So then he tells me that it'll be our last training session **screech** WTF? O_o
I was HOT. Before he even could get it out, I screamed, "YOU'RE LEAVING???" So he says, "Yes..." and I say, "Where are you going??" and he tells me that he has decided to go to graduate school to get his Masters' in Psychology. *sigh* As a person with three degrees, I can't knock education, so I tell him good luck.

I'm pissed though. So, now I have to get yet another trainer. GOOD GRIEF.

However, in other news, I have lost a total of 18 pounds. 7 more to go until I hit my short term goal of 25 pounds. Yay for small victories.

Funny

2011-05-23T10:02:00.001-05:00

It's always funny to me how many guys tell me that they come and view my blog just to see the pictures of what I am wearing.

I love it. LOL

Happy Monday!

The Look: Sunday's Best

2011-05-22T15:01:00.000-05:00

This is not the best picture, but I wanted to post it anyway because my puppy is in it. Cheesy, yes. But I forgot my camera at home so my usual photographer couldn't do it.
I wore my hair big today, which I usually don't do and I received a lot of compliments.

Dress: NY Collection Woman (purchased from Macy's a few years ago)

Shoes: ShoeDazzle (Moxie in Blue)

Clutch: COACH

Puppy: Madison Kaye, Miniature Schnauzer

Happy Sunday!

Sunday's Best

2011-05-16T07:32:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! It's been a while and I apologize. The perils of life are something else! But anyway! Here's my outfit from yesterday. I am going to attempt to start accessorizing more. This is something that I never do! But this also means that I will need to keep up with my jewelry that MATCHES. You can't really tell in this picture, but the earrings that I have on in this picture really do not match the necklace. The necklace has matching earrings that I couldn't find. Ugh! I've also lost a few pounds so some of my clothes are draping like they usually do. While weight loss is excellent, I have a LOT of clothes. This means that I need to become friends with a seamstress or tailor QUICK.

The Look:
Dress: Michael Kors, purchased from Dillard's

Shoes: Xhilaration (Target)

Weight Loss: My New Best Friend

2011-05-05T08:01:00.000-05:00

Source: Freemotion Incline Trainer

I am slowly acclimating myself to the different machines in the gym. When I first started working out, I would only warm up using the bike (7-10 minutes), then I would spend the rest of my time doing weights or using the ab machine. Kinda boring, yes.

Then I moved up to the elliptical and I actually liked the progress that I was seeing while on it. That's what I use now for my warm up, I put it on an interval setting. If you don't know about the interval setting, I encourage you to check it out!!! The interval setting on most machines is very helpful when you are trying to burn fat because this setting involves both high intensity intervals and lower intensity recovery periods. Most of the machines in bigger gyms (Gold's, 24 hour Fitness, etc.) have setting where the machines adjust automatically for you, so you don't even have to worry about trying to figure it out. Using the interval session during your workout will help you to burn more calories and build endurance more quickly.
After the elliptical, typically, I would then go and do weights...however, now that I am doing the indoor cardio triathlon, I have found a machine that pushes me that I really like!! I especially like the interval workout on this machine.

The Freemotion Incline Trainer looks like a treadmill but it does so much more! It adjusts automatically on the interval setting, so you don't have to worry about changing the settings to incline or decline, nope! It also has handlebars (that's what I call them) so that you can have support when you are on the 18.5 incline. Yes, that incline is SERIOUS. Like going up a steep hill. On the interval setting, this machines changes up the incline for however long you set it, or it's preset to do every 30 seconds. Talk about a workout! I LOVE IT! I can't believe that I am actually saying this about a treadmill, but move over Kimetre and Moniek, I have found my new best friend!!!!!

Does your gym have an incline trainer? Have you tried it out? Do you use/like the interval setting on the elliptical, stationary bike, or treadmill?

Must Have: I Want It!!

2011-04-28T21:32:00.000-05:00

I don't even have to talk about it. Just look. I shall have this soon.

Jacqueline Dress by IGIGI
$135.00

National Infertility Awareness Week & the RARE SOIL Project Website

2011-04-25T22:52:00.002-05:00

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This week, April 24-30, 2011 is National Infertility Awareness Week.

I didn't even know such a week existed until last night, and as soon as I found out, I knew that it was something that I wanted to showcase on my blogs. This is such an issue that is near and dear to me…there are so many myths surrounding infertility...I will tackle one of those myths in the next few days.

Today's post is about this great website that I was recently made aware of and had the opportunity to briefly visit.

The Rare Soil Project

For over two years, the RARE SOIL Project has been working with African-American women and communities teaching about the impact of infertility and involuntary childlessness. The RARE SOIL Project works with women to help them overcome the shame and isolation associated with infertility.

The mission of the RARE SOIL Project is to offer hope, support, and information to African American women who are living childlessness not by choice (CNBC) as a result of infertility, and raise public awareness about the impact of infertility and involuntary childlessness, through education and advocacy.

FROM THE RARE SOIL SITE:

7.3 million American women have had trouble conceiving a pregnancy or carrying a pregnancy to term
1 in 8 women and men are diagnosed with infertility

The RARE SOIL Project refers to infertility broadly, including all fertility impairments:

Infertility is a medical diagnosis given when a couple has not conceived a pregnancy despite trying for 12 months.
Impaired fecundity is medical term when a woman experiences difficulties conceiving or bringing a pregnancy to term during their lifetime (i.e., recurrent miscarriages)
Involuntary Childlessness is a chronic condition that occurs when a woman/couple desires to have genetic children, but cannot conceive, or maintain a pregnancy to birth.

Because I was just made aware of the site last night, I haven’t had an opportunity to through the site completely, but for what I have perused, I think it is an awesome tool. If you suffer from issues surrounding infertility, or know someone that does, please go to this website or pass it on. I know that I will definitely be going through it more in detail in the next few days, and passing it on to some very dear blogger friends that are battling issues with conception. You can also find the RARE SOIL Project on Facebook, please click the link and "Like" the page.

Be blessed everyone and let's unite for awareness surrounding infertility!

The Look: Sunday's Best

2011-04-24T18:07:00.000-05:00

Happy Resurrection Sunday to you all!!!

I've had a great day today...actually a great weekend overall. Back to reality tomorrow!

Today's look was posted a few weeks ago. I didn't find the hat that I wanted so I decided to get a cute necklace and earrings instead. Here ya go! Click the picture to enlarge!

The Look:

Dress: Dillards or Kohl's

Shoe: Carlos by Carlos Santana: Prestige in Silver

Purse: Nine West Fold Over Clutch

Sunglasses: Franco Sarto (won on Robyn's Nest Blog)

Jewelry: Compass Trading Company

Work Out Music

2011-04-22T09:35:00.000-05:00

Source

What do you listen to when you work out? I have to have music and I am always looking for different stuff to add to my workout playlist. I like fast music (for the most part) that keeps me pumped. Right now the playlist consists of (in order):

Is That Your Chick (Memphis Bleek featuring Missy Elliott & Jay Z) <--great on the Elliptical
Ride (Ciara featuring Ludacris)
Bia Bia (Lil Jon & the Eastside Boys)
Never Scared (Bone Crusher)
Make a Movie (Twista featuring Chris Brown)
Oh Let’s Do It (Lil Wayne)
Oh Let’s Do It (Waka Flocka Flame)
Deuces (Chris Brown)
Check It Out (Nicki Minaj)
Look At Me Now (Chris Brown featuring Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes)
A Milli (Lil Wayne) <--great for the bike or the leg press

What songs keep you pumped in the gym??

The Look: Color Blocking pt. 1

2011-04-20T21:06:00.001-05:00

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Soooo...if you pay any attention to fashion blogs or fashion trends, you may have seen the new trend called "Color Blocking." I will admit that I was clueless on the phrase until I read up on it. Then today I discussed it with a few co-workers and they told me that this type of dress was hot in the 80's. So, tonight I decided to come home and play a little dress up since Criminal Minds is a rerun! I am still learning to use my camera and tripod, so bear with me!

What is Color Blocking? Click the link if you're curious; the Houston Chronicle does a very good job of explaining it!

Here's my first attempt. It was a little difficult b/c I realized I have a lot of dark colors in my closet...not that you can't color block with dark colors, but the whole idea is COLOR and when I think color I think vibrant. I do have a lot of royal blue in my closet being the good Zeta that I am, but I don't have a lot of colored bottoms...maybe I can fit a trip to some thrift stores in soon...and while sitting here working on this post, I have another outfit in mind!! Coming soon!

Have you tried color blocking yet?

The Look:

Fishtail Skirt: Ashley Stewart (many years ago)

Peasant Blouse: Wal-Mart

Pointy Toe Pumps: Michael Antonio

Weight Loss: Nutrition Guidelines

2011-04-19T10:52:00.002-05:00

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Have you ever paid any attention to the announcement board at your gym?
At the Gold's Gym that I attend, they are always advertising new classes to attend or announcing upcoming fitness challenges. A few weeks ago, two of these announcements caught my eye. One was for Aqua Zumba and the other was for Nutritional Fitness sessions with the Sr. Fitness Manager. I signed up for both of them, but haven't been able to do Aqua Zumba because they have it on a Wednesday morning!! (Yes, I have complained because WHO can go on a Wednesday morning???) But anyway, I met with the Sr. Fitness Manager yesterday for my first nutritional fitness session. He gave me a homework assignment for when we meet next week and he also gave me some nutrition guidelines that I wanted to share with everyone. Shhh! Don't tell him. LOL, actually the stuff that he provided me with consisted of things that I've heard before, but it's always good to hear things repeatedly....that makes it stick..eventually.

NUTRITION GUIDELINES

1. Do low intensity cardio every morning upon waking. (I had an issue here because I never wake up in time for this, so he okayed me doing it in the evening (during the week) before I eat dinner. But he said it's best done as soon as you wake up).

2. Eat every three hours after you wake up. (3 meals - 3 snacks)

3. Each meal should consist of:
Complex Carbs
Lean Protein
Low Fat

4. Remember that your 3 snacks should always be fruit (if possible)

5. Eliminate sugar

6. No simple carbs

7. Do not skip meals/snacks

8. Hydrate -- Drink at least 64 oz. of water per day

9. Eat something after every workout (I keep almonds in my car)

10. Keep a food log (journal) that consists of:
What you eat
What time you eat
How often you hydrate
What time you go to bed/awake
How often you do cardio

And there you have it. He also gave me some homework questions, but instead of listing them all, I am going to make them into blog posts...I mean, what else can I do now that the "25 Days, 25 Songs" is over??

Have you changed your eating habits? How is that going?

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 25 - A Song That You Could Listen To All Day

2011-04-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

For the past 25 days, I have shared some of my most personal thoughts with the world. I've actually liked it. Today's song....the song that I could listen to over and over and over again....And of course, just as many of the other songs that I have shared, this one has a story.
Back in 1999, I was still living in Mississippi, where the blues goes HARD..(I so miss it). At that time..I had never heard of Syleena Johnson. But this song...this song would play everyone morning on Kixie: Jackson's Soft Soul radio station as I was getting ready for work. One morning in particular, I had company and I can remember laying there with the music on (if I didn't fall asleep with the radio on, I would wake up and immediately turn it on) and when this song came on, he was singing it in his sleep. Sooo cute.
Today's song and the final song of the "25 Days, 25 Songs" is from my SO SWEET SOROR Syleena Johnson, and the title of the song is "So Confused." This song was on her very first CD, Love Hangover (SN: WOW, this is a collector's item!! I am enamored that it's in my collection!!) but she redid it for Chapter 1: Love, Pain, and Forgiveness (yes, I own this too). I love this song. You hear me? LOVE IT. Maybe because its words have been my situation so many times. Syleena is truly one of those artists that does not get the credit she deserves. Enjoy and thanks so much for bearing with me as I have gone through my love of music...I think I am about to put a radio back in my bedroom! :o)

The Look: Sunday's Best

2011-04-19T07:56:00.000-05:00

The only thing that I hated about my Sunday outfit was my hair!! I didn't take the time to really do anything to it like I usually do on Sundays and it left much to be desired! I do like the outfit though! I was at Target later in the evening and I was still dressed (after two services at church) and a lady stopped me to ask me where I got my dress from. I ended up being able to recommend to her a couple of spots to get great looking curvaceous sized clothes. I need to order some blog business cards to hand out. I love to be able to help people find clothes at stores that they otherwise would have never considered going into!

The Look:

Dress: Sangria Brand (purchased from Dillard's years ago)

Bag: Thrifted XOXO Brand

Shoes: Carlos by Carlos Santana Believe 2

Car: Chrysler 300 (LOL)

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 24 - A Song That You Have Danced to With Your Best Friend

2011-04-18T10:00:00.002-05:00

This is going to be an old one! My best friend and I go back a LONG time...We went to college together and we used to go to the club quite often. One song that immediately comes to mind is, "When I Dip, You Dip, We Dip" (a really stupid song, LOL) by 2 Live Crew. Just remembering how we actually tried to do the dance is HEELARIOUS!

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 23 - A Song That You Cannot Stand To Listen To

2011-04-17T10:00:00.001-05:00

Imagine laying in your bed on a Sunday night, just listening to the radio in serious chill mode...and then the announcer comes on and it's a familiar voice...the person that you suspect you boyfriend is cheating on you with....yup she's the DJ. She starts talking about how she loves a particular movie that just came out and as a result, she wants to dedicate it to him....for taking her to see the movie...and calls his name...Just imagine that.

It took me a very long time to even WATCH the movie that this song was created for. I do love the movie, I will admit, but the song is just a little difficult to listen to.

Today's song is, "Love of My Life" by Erykah Badu from the "Brown Sugar" movie soundtrack.

Must Have: I Want It

2011-04-16T15:08:00.000-05:00

Yes, another edition of something that I want. Actually I am going to get this as soon as I get a 40 or 50% off coupon from the Avenue, or the dress goes on sale, whatever happens first. This dress is absolutely gorgeous...don't you think? I am thinking of different shoe combinations to wear with it. I am seriously considering a yellow shoe...that I don't have yet.

Actually let me take a moment and correct myself. I will only buy/order (and keep) this dress if it's a good quality and fit, because unfortunately the Avenue sometimes lacks on some of their items.

Has anyone seen this dress in person?

Avenue::Border Print Sheath Dress

Border Print Sheath Dress

A retro border print and flirty shape makes this plus size knit sheath dress an eye catcher.

Cap sleeves. Darts at bust. Knit. Stretch. Imported.
Polyester/Spandex. Machine wash.
Approx 40" long.
Women's Plus Sizes 14/16-26/28.

Item #: 0305-96565-1054

$64.90

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 22 - A Song that Someone Has Sang To You

2011-04-16T10:00:00.000-05:00

He lives overseas in Germany and when it's night there, it's morning here...he would call around 8:00 a.m. and as soon as I said, "Hello...", I can't even talk about it. Just listen.

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 21 - Your Favorite Song

2011-04-15T10:00:00.001-05:00

How can a lover of all things music have a favorite song? There is just no way. None at all. So, I am just going to pick one of the songs that I really like. Tony Terry...."With You" I once envisioned this being the song that I would dance with my husband to. I mean, yes it can still happen, just not with the person that I imagined. Doesn't that suck?

FBFF: Gratitude

2011-04-15T06:00:00.001-05:00

Fashion Beauty Friend Friday (FBFF): This is my second week participating and I actually like it. For more information, click here. Today we are focusing on Gratitude. I am truly a grateful person. I hope you enjoy what I have to say here :o)

Source

When it comes to me PERSONALLY – I owe a lot of who I am to: MY GRANDMOTHER. I was raised primarily by her and there are times that she went without so that I could have. I think that’s why I was so eager to vote for the President, because I remember him saying that his mother (or was it his grandmother) would go without getting a new dress just to make sure that he was able to participate in this or that. That's my story.
My grandmother has an enlarged heart and congestive heart failure. The way she found out was she caught the flu after being out with me at a Jingle Bell 5k Run when I was in Student Council. She always says, “Standing up there with you with that sleet falling on my head got me sick!” But she absolutely LOVED supporting me. No matter how far the band went, she was on the parent’s bus. No matter how much or how many leadership camps I wanted to go to with Student Council, she made sure I went. That’s who set me up to be the person that I am right now today. She used to say that she was scared that I would never get married because my expectations were too high for people because she has done so much for me…and she may be right, because I need him to take care of me the way she has and still does! For her, I am thankful. If you're a grandmama's baby, you understand just where I am coming from!

When it comes to me PROFESSIONALLY – I owe ~~a lot~~ ALL of who I am to: Refer to #1. LOL

When it comes to the art of BLOGGING, I’m grateful to these people for helping me through some rough spots: I am still working on being a great blogger and I have way too many blogs that I favor to just start naming them and I don't want to forget one, so I won't As well, I have two blogs that are two different genres! Check out My Hair.....Is Me in your spare time (shameless plug). I do want to thank my Sorority Sisters though...because they kept at me to start a blog, and I finally did.

One BLOGGING CHALLENGE I’m grateful happened because it made me STRONGER was…I realized that all of my followers weren't going to always agree with me. That was hard for me, because TO ME (keywords) I am always right! The first time it happened, I was pissed off, but then I realized...my blogs are my opinion and my opinion only....and as good as it sounds to me, may not be what another person is looking for! That's called growth, ya'll...and that's a life lesson!

TO MY READERS, I’d like to say…Thank you so much for following me. Each one of you has your own reason and whatever it is, I am grateful to you. You fuel me. I hope that I can continue to be interesting to you and if there’s ever any questions that you may have for me, please let me know!

In My Dreams: I WANT IT

2011-04-14T12:00:00.003-05:00

Dear God,
Please bless me with a good man that will love and take care of me and occasionally throw money my way to buy the gorgeous things that my heart desires...and let him have a great job that has company events that I can wear these nice things too.

Amen

Ya'll. When I opened my email and saw the sketching of this dress, my heart skipped a beat..but when I went to the IGIGI site and SAW the dress...I almost slipped out of my chair into a puddle on the floor.

Check it out. It's so beautiful. I don't even know WHERE I would wear it to...I just need it in my closet for when the occasion presents itself. An evening dinner in a posh restaurant? A visit to an upscale art gallery? I don't know, I don't care. I just know that. I WANT IT.

Stella Dress by IGIGI
$205.00

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 20 - The Last Song in Your iPod

2011-04-14T10:00:00.002-05:00

The last song in my Sansa Fuze is a banger. Hands down. I don't even have to talk about it, I'll just let you listen. "You" by Jesse Powell.

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 19 - The First Song in Your iPod

2011-04-13T20:13:00.000-05:00

First off, I don't have an iPod! I have a SanDisk Sansa Fuze mp3 player in HOT PINK. I love it. The first song in it is..."A Milli" by none other that Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr., better known as, "Lil Wayne". Yes, I do enjoy listening to this lyricist. Keeping in line with past songs, I am posting the clean version, but in the gym..best believe....try it out when you're on the elliptical and see how quickly those strides go up on the counter!! I put mine on repeat!

Must Have: I WANT IT

2011-04-13T08:00:00.002-05:00

This very moment, I am in love with the glitter pumps. So much that I see a pair in my immediate future!!! I put together a few and yes they all look alike for the most part, BUT they are different in their own respect! The top two are more affordable but the bottom two are soooo classy! The Louboutin on the bottom right actually made my heart skip a few beats.

Do you like the glitter shoe craze?

Glitter Shoe Craze by LMichelle featuring glitter pumps

Christian Louboutin peep toe heels
$895 - bergdorfgoodman.com

Miu Miu glitter pumps
$595 - barneys.com

Enzo Angiolini platform pump shoes
$95 - nordstrom.com

Enzo angiolini shoes
$89 - nordstrom.com

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 18 - A Song That You Love But Rarely Listen To

2011-04-12T13:00:00.003-05:00

How about an artist that I love but never listen to! Bilal definitely does not get the respect that he deserves. I really love this song, "Think It Over." He has such a soulful voice. One that I could listen to all the time. I will do better with listening to his works...

The Look: Pondering for Easter

2011-04-12T10:15:00.000-05:00

I am almost 95% sure that I will wear the two items below for Easter Sunday. I already have them both. I got the dress on a serious mega clearance at Dillard's, the one here is listed at Kohl's. Same dress, different store. I found the shoe at a clearance sale at Macy's a few days after I posted that I wanted it on my Facebook page, talk about knowing that it was for me! I am indecisive about the outfit though...because I really want to wear a hat this Easter. I am trying to figure out what kind of hat would look best with this ensemble.

What do ya'll think? Keep in mind that I have big hair that would need to be pulled back.

Easter Sunday by LMichelle

Dress

$100 - kohls.com

Carlos by Carlos Santana high heels

$90 - heels.com

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 17 - A Song That Makes You Want to Dance

2011-04-11T22:02:00.000-05:00

Okay, I missed the weekend with my songs! I had company and a lot going on, so soooorrryy!!!

Day 17 is a song that makes you want to dance. Anyone that knows me will tell you that I have absolutely no rhythm, but there are a few songs that will get me on the dance floor.
The main one is "Stanky Legg" by The GS Boyz. This is the video for the clean version (\o/)!
Favorite part: Hit the booty do, hit the booty do!

The Look: For Zeta

2011-04-11T00:26:00.000-05:00

Remember a few short weeks ago when I told ya'll I was gonna get this dress?

Oh you thought I was playing? Nope! I got it!

I took this picture on Sunday, April 10, 2011 after the neophyte presentation of the undergraduate chapter that I advise for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

What do you think?

The Look:

Hat: Zeta Phi Beta (of course!)

Sunglasses: COACH

Dress: Wet Seal

Shoes: Calvin Klein

Personal Trainer Issues

2011-04-09T14:32:00.000-05:00

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In keeping up with my “35 Things….” challenge to myself, I signed up for a trainer at Gold’s Gym earlier this year.

I’ve already gone through two. Kody was the first assigned to me. He apparently is the most popular trainer at the Tech Ridge Gold’s because he didn’t have enough time slots to accommodate me.

Then came Roger. I met with him once and worked out with him TWICE and fell in love with him…then in a horrible April Fool’s Day joke…he quit the gym, and so went our relationship. Roger has told me that he will continue to be my trainer, but I can’t pay him and pay Gold’s Gym, so…so much for that!

For anyone familiar with Austin, Texas and it’s gyms you know that the Tech Ridge Gold’s is one of the nicer gyms. It’s bright and airy and the machines are new, and there’s always some nice eye candy. However, for me to come from downtown Austin to the TechRidge location in the evening is a bit of a feat in Austin traffic. As a result, it’s easier to take IH-35 to Hwy. 290 and go HOME and skip the gym altogether, especially without a trainer to hold me accountable. Enter in the Lincoln Village Gold’s Gym...or as my friend Moniek likes to call it, the “Nursing Home.”

The Lincoln Village Gold’s Gym is a great location for me to work out, especially when I am just leaving work, so I decided to move my personal training sessions over there.

Who cares that the machines are old and most of the men in there should have portable air machines. Or that the machines are old. Oh, I already said that. I meet with a cute buzz cut blond named Brian this coming Tuesday at 5:00 p.m.

Wish me luck.

FBFF: Top 5 Spring Trends!

2011-04-08T13:15:00.000-05:00

Here are the Top Five Spring trends that I am looking forward to!

Colorful Dresses:
I love color and for some reason I only wear it in the warmer months...but when I wear it, I wear it!!!! It's nothing for me to wear a dress each day in the summer and I usually buy at least two dresses per month to support my habit. I love wearing a new dress to church on Sundays no matter the season. #confessionsofashopaholic

Dress Barn

Nordstrom

Shoes:
Ya'll already know that I have a shoe addiction. It's bad. This spring I can't wait to wear peep toes, platforms, and I *may* even consider a wedge heel like the one shown here. My friend S. Beth over at The Dressing Room Blog is always wearing the cutest wedge sandals and they are starting to grow on me...**shh! don't tell her**

COACH -- Jazlyn

Nine West

Purses:
Usually, if there is a purse on my shoulder, it's Signature COACH, but for the summer, I like to switch up a bit and carry different purses..more colorful...you know, eye catchers. Now of course that doesn't mean that I can't carry COACH, but for the most part, I'll pick up a more different bag for the summer...unless...there's a sale at the COACH Outlet that's really too close to my home.

Nine West

Floppy Hats:
Yes, I have some BIG HAIR, but I can finally pull it all they way back. So, this Spring (maybe as early as this weekend, I will be sporting the floppy hat and sunglasses!!! Chic!

Zappos

Jewelry:
I am typically an earrings only kind of girl, but one of my co-workers always wears the cutest earring, necklace, and rings that always match. She said that she's spent the last twenty years perfecting her jewelry collection, and it definitely shows. I would like to start purchasing higher end jewelry sets maybe every few months to began to build my collection! No better time to start than right now!

Spring Jewelry Set

There you have it! What are you looking forward to this Spring??

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 16 - A Song That Has Made You Cry

2011-04-08T10:00:00.002-05:00

When a person that loves music like I do…there will always be many songs that will touch you for different reasons.

I love music, I know I’ve said this many times before. But it’s an integral part of me.

Today’s song is a song that has made you cry. I didn’t even know where to start…well actually I did but the angel on my right shoulder was fighting with the devil on my right about which song to share for today. LOL. The angel won. Today’s song is “Now Behold the Lamb” by Kirk Franklin and Nu Nation. This song touches me each time I hear it. And it features one of my favorite singers, Tamala Mann, before people know just who “Tamala Mann” was!!! What’s funny is that I didn’t hear the song until long after it was released. A former boyfriend told me that it was his favorite gospel song and the first time I heard it, I was in tears. Funny thing about him is that I don’t think he was even that religious and if for no other reason than to introduce this song to me, I am thankful for our very brief relationship.

Favorite verse: “When I always didn’t do right. I went left, He told me to go right. But I’m standing right here in the midst of my tears. Lord I claim You to be the Lamb of God!” God is so good to me in SPITE of me. I would hear the old folks say that when I was little and I never understood it until I got older.

Be blessed ya’ll and have a Happy Friday!!!!

In the News: Living Simply

2011-04-08T07:21:00.002-05:00

As a person that lives with only 1/2 of another being (Madison) and occupies a three bedroom, two bathroom house and still feels that need for more space, I am always amazed at people that live in teeny spaces!! I would like to declutter my house, but I've been saying that for the almost five years that I have been there!! This video caught my eye this morning. The lady lives in a 90 square foot (I don't think you can even call that an apartment) space in New York City and it works for her! I always wonder how people that live so simple are socially? For example, I LOVE to entertain and my home. I have some Sorors coming this weekend to hang out and even though I know I'll be tired on Monday, I am looking forward to hanging out with them. As well, I have began a tradition of having Thanksgiving dinner at my house. Can't do that in 90 feet of space! Watch the video and then tell me.....What do ya'll think??

Life Lessons: Being Busted by the Doctor

2011-04-07T12:00:00.001-05:00

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Most of you here know that I am a breast cancer survivor.

November 10, 2011 will make five years since my diagnosis. This has not been a rocky five years. It’s actually been quite normal. To be honest, I never felt like I had cancer, even with hair loss.....especially after I finished chemo, radiation, and the additional year of Herceptin infusions ("Footprints in the Sand" moment, much?)…And now other than the fact that I have to go to the doctor every few months and every six months I have either a mammogram or a bilateral breast MRI (who even knew these existed?), I often forget that I had such a life threatening disease. I do have moments though when I hear of someone being diagnosed or re-diagnosed or I get a bad report at the doctor.

Initially, after my full treatment regimen was completed, I had to see my oncologist every three months, then four, now I am at five. Pretty soon it’ll be six (I hope) and then yearly. In addition to these visits, I also have to take a drug called Tamoxifen. According to WebMD, “Tamoxifen is a medication that blocks the action of the female hormone estrogen in the body. For more than 25 years, doctors have prescribed tamoxifen to fight tumor growth in women who have breast cancer with tumors that are fueled by estrogen. Tamoxifen is the first selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) to be approved by the FDA for both prevention and treatment of breast cancer in high-risk women.” My cancer formed as a result of my body producing too many hormones.

Tamoxifen is prescribed to be taken daily.

In addition to the Tamoxifen, I have also been told that I have a Vitamin D deficiency (possibly due to the Tamoxifen). I don’t know how Vitamin D is measured, but when my blood work is done, my Vitamin D which should measure at 30 has been consistently between 19 (at the lowest) and 24 (at the highest).

So now that all of that is out of the way. This is the reason for this post. I have not been taking the Tamoxifen and only scarcely taking the Vitamin D. Bad…I know. But how about this. My prescription insurance sent a LETTER to my ONCOLOGIST informing her that I had not refilled my prescription in quite some time! You can't get away with ANYTHING these days. I got a letter from them and I was wondering if they'd sent her one as well and I found out my answer last week. My doctor called me personally and she was mad. She didn't fuss but the way she worded what she had to say had me in tears. She said, "You have come a long way and as a person that has been successful to this point, I would hate for you to be careless and have a setback in a few years." This put it all into perspective. She asked me WHY I don't like taking Tamoxifen and let me just show you the side effects:

Hot flashes
Nausea
Hair thinning
Headache may occur.
A loss of sexual ability/interest may occur in men. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
Vision changes (e.g., blurred vision)/eye pain
Easy bruising/bleeding
Mental/mood changes
Swelling of ankles/feet
Unusual tiredness.

While I haven't experience ALL of these, I have experienced some and they are a nuisance, especially the hot flashes. With the hot flashes, I wake up in the middle of the night drenched and then have trouble going back to sleep. But yes, it's clear to me that my health and prevention of cancer is more important that sleeping restfully every night. I know this. It's hard. Ya'll pray for me. This week on my desk, I have a bottle of Tamoxifen and a bottle of Caltrate-D. We'll see how this goes. Lesson learned.

Did you get that “Footprints in the Sand” reference yet? :o)

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 15 - A Song You Love Singing Along To

2011-04-07T07:16:00.000-05:00

Whew. This is HARD. Why? Because I LOVE to sing. Like seriously. I LOVE to sing. Even though I may not do it WELL. I LOVE TO SING. I think back to days of my youth...my grandmother's house has a big picture window and I used to pretend that I was on stage giving a performance to a crowd of fans. It was so funny that people would pass by and slow down and look like, "What the hell is this child doing?" But I would just keep singing and wave! LOL. Today's song is one of those song's that I would sing in the picture window of my grandmother's house. Please know that there are several, but this is the most memorable one.
"I Don't Want To Do Anything" by Mary J. Blige featuring K-Ci (from Jodeci)
(yes, I only sang MJB's part, and pretended that K-Ci was singing to me!)

The Look: Wednesday 4.5.11

2011-04-06T10:00:00.002-05:00

I have to be at work at 7:00 a.m. now, and because I have to get up so much earlier, I hope to be able to take pics before I leave home. We'll see how that goes! I have to figure out better lighting so I won't look so dark!

The Look:

Dress: Chelsea Studio from Woman Within (this is an OLD dress, but I love the fit)

Shoes: Anne Klein iFlex "Sasha" in Gold

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 14 - A Song That Reminds You of Your Boyfriend

2011-04-06T07:02:00.000-05:00

WELL. This one is kind of hard seeing as how I am not involved in a relationship right now. So, I am going to give you a song that reminds me of the person that I WISH was my boyfriend. He's quite the awesome guy. I've referenced him before on Day 5 and I am sure he'll be referenced again. It's my music buddy! Today's song is one that he turned me on to (I told ya'll I feel like he communicates in the songs he sends me, at least that's what I pretend) and before listening to this song, I had never really paid this artist any attention...I know, I know. I am embarrassed to even admit that!!

This is such a great artist. Today's song is "Cross the Line" by John Legend.

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 13 - A Song That Reminds You of a Former Friend

2011-04-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

This was an interesting category, that strangely I do have a song for. A former GOOD friend and I parted ways last year. I actually don't know what happened. All I know is she unfriended me from Facebook one day and I didn't care enough to ask why. Today's song was one that we used to dance to when we were younger.

This song is, "Do the Jubilee All" by DJ Jubilee. Shake baby, shake baby, shake, shake, shake!

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 12 - The Last Song You Heard

2011-04-04T10:00:00.001-05:00

Even though this post is for Monday, April 4, I will be sharing the last song I heard on today (Sunday). At church today, the choir sang a well-known song that I absolutely LOVE. The day I made the decision to join St. James Baptist Church, back in 2000, the church sang this song that Sunday as well. I learned then that this song was my Pastor's favorite song as well, that was enough for me! If you've never heard it, it's word are a true testimony. "You are the source of my STRENGTH...You are the STRENGTH of my LIFE!" That's enough to shout on right there.

Today's song is "Total Praise" by Richard Smallwood.

The Look: Sunday's Best

2011-04-03T15:25:00.000-05:00

I would love to post what I wear daily, but sometimes that's not always easy because I get up late most of the time and some days I just don't feel picture cute. Today was different though. I was able to get my neighbor to take pics of me after church to share. This is something that I will definitely begin to do more of, especially once I ~~figure out a good spot~~ clean up my house. Nothing I hate worse than people taking pictures with a junky background! But at any rate here's today's look. I got this dress last week and couldn't wait to wear it to church today! I got a lot of compliments on it.

The Look

Sunglasses: COACH

Dress: Lennie for Nina Leonard

Shoes: Carlos by Carlos Santana: Believe 2

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 11 - A Song From the Soundtrack of Your Favorite Movie

2011-04-03T10:00:00.000-05:00

I hate that this one had to come on a Sunday, but Lord forgive me. My favorite movie of all times..the one that I can watch over and over and over again is....The Player's Club. I don't know WHY I like this movie so much...maybe it's the late great Bernie Mack, or Jamie Foxx...or even Lisa Raye! I don't know what it is..but I love it so quite naturally, my favorite song from the movie is the one that "Diamond" did her dance to, Seems Like You're Ready by R. Kelly. (Yes, I still love the R-Ruh). I won't tell ya'll how many times I've tried to do that dance....yeah. I decided not to post the dance since "Diamond" gets naked on it. LOL Now I am going to the church house to pray for myself! Have a Happy Sunday!

Diva Deep In Thought Giveaway!

2011-04-02T16:24:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite plus sized fashion blogs, Diva Deep In Thought has teamed up with one of my favorite online retailers, IGIGI to do a great giveaway!

Click HERE to be taken to the blog for the giveaway!

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 10 - A Song By Your Favorite Band

2011-04-02T10:00:00.001-05:00

I didn't began to appreciate my favorite band until a few years after they released their debut album. Now, they are one of my favorites. I can always tell what my favorite artists are based on whether or not I buy or burn their CD's (don't judge me). Today's song is "Gotta Be" by none other than Jagged Edge. Enjoy!

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 9 - A Song That Makes You Hopeful

2011-04-01T10:18:00.001-05:00

As a single woman, I often long for a stable relationship and family and all those things that I thought I would have by now!! I am a true 70's baby and I love old school ballads. It doesn't help that most of my friends like the same type of music. Today's song is by the late great Teddy Pendergrass, "Love 4/2". His words are exactly what I want! I know that one day, I WILL have this!!! I claim and receive it!

What's Your Workout Regimen?

2011-04-01T08:30:00.005-05:00

I get an email from Gold's Gym every weeks or so and I usually only skim over them, but a few weeks ago, this email came through and it was interesting to me because unless I am in the gym with my trainer, I often wonder if I am doing the right sets of workouts. Well below is the "Gold's Gym Indoor Cardio Triathlon," and it looks perfectly doable for those days that you need some variety in your workout. I am going to start incorporating this indoor triathlon into my workout (click the picture to make it bigger). Only prob is that I hate the treadmill. My trainer told me to start walking at a -3 decline instead of an incline to see how I would like that, and it was actually cool. So, we'll see.

What does your workout regimen consist of?

Introducing Madison!

2011-03-31T09:00:00.001-05:00

I just realized that I never introduced my puppy to the followers of this blog! Introducing Madison!

Name: Madison Kaye

Age: 1 year, 8 months

Breed: Miniature Schnauzer

This is my princess puppy! Yes, she is VERY spoiled!

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 8 - "First Love" Song

2011-03-31T08:25:00.001-05:00

He used to sing this to me all the time. We were from a small town with a local radio station that did nightly dedications. This song was dedicated to "Tanya from Kevan" so many times. My first love and I. I remember dancing with him at Top Teen parties that we held at Wiley College. Man the memories. Such a cute story that ended horribly (but don't they all?). We are Facebook friends now (he's married with kids) and I am still really close with his aunt and cousin.
Today's song is "Special Kind of Fool" by Basic Black.

Must Have: The Dress

2011-03-30T14:40:00.000-05:00

Donna Ricco Sleeveless Belted Sheath Dress::$138.00

Springtime is upon us and I am looking to update my dresses this year. Dresses and sandals are usually my staple, even for work. It's important to me that I select dresses that I can wear both to work and if I want to go to happy hour after work and still be cute. I came across this dress while perusing the Nordstrom site today and it screamed out to me! It would be great for work or even a summer Saturday date with some strappy brown sandals!

Have you started going through your closets and determining what you need for the upcoming warmer months?

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 7 - Song that reminds you of the past summer

2011-03-30T10:06:00.001-05:00

This past summer was spent going out on the weekends and dancing with friends. I did not do too much traveling, other than going to Dallas in both June and July for conferences. As I sat here trying to figure out what song to post, I couldn't come up with anything!! Everything was booty shake, but then I thought, "This is my blog..so I can post booty shake!!!" Then I thought back to the Rickey Smiley concert that I attended at the beginning of last summer...and I had an aha! moment. Today's song is the song that Rickey came out on the stage to "Oh Let's Do It" by Waka Flocka Flame. I posted the clean version, but know that when I listen to rap...it's almost never clean!!!!

Adventures in Weight Loss

2011-03-29T08:51:00.000-05:00

Source

So, as you all know, I am on a weight loss journey...I think that's what it is. I am signed up for a trainer at Gold's Gym and the first one that they gave me was consistently overbooked and unable to accommodate my sporadic schedule. No worries, he got me signed up with another trainer and I met with him yesterday. Right now I like him. My first training session with the new trainer is this evening, so we'll see how much I like him tomorrow!

We had a long discussion about nutrition and eating better. I told him that I have done pretty good since becoming committed to this weight loss thing. I admitted that there are times when I slip and he told me he understood because he loves Popeye’s Chicken. LOL. I told him I love my OWN chicken! I haven’t had any in a while, so I may switch that up this weekend. We’ll see. SN: Did you know that nutrition accounts for a whopping 85% of weight loss??

This morning was funny though. Traffic was HORRIBLE, and it took me an entire hour to get to work and I left home early. All the way to work, I was thinking. “I’m stressed about being late, so I am going to make myself feel better and get some Taquitos when I get to work!!!” I was ready ya’ll. So ready that I could TASTE them. So I get to work late, fill out the stupid, “I got to work late and this is how I will make up the time” form and then proceeded to go downstairs to the cafeteria for my Taquitos. I get in line and I don’t see them…O_o WTF? So I ask the chick on the serving line if they have Taquitos today and she goes, “We don’t sell them anymore.” I GLARED AT HER FOR THREE SECONDS. Then I laughed, because I knew durn well that I didn’t NEED any Taquitos! So instead I ordered one scoop of eggs, two slices of turkey sausage, and a whole grain bagel. Yay me. *eyeroll*

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 6 - Best Friend Song

2011-03-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

My best friend Kimetre and I have known each other since 2nd grade. I always joke and say that I didn't like her at first. She always had the best slumber parties and it was like pulling teeth to get my grandmother to let me go! It didn't help that the one time that she DID let me go, when my mom got there to pick me up the next morning I could find my pants and my bestie's male cousins were there. LOL Good times.

Kimetre is my lifeline. I could shed a tear at the mere THOUGHT of being without her in my life. I am about to cry right now just typing this *PMS*. That's just how much I love her. She has ALWAYS been there for me each and every single time that I have needed her to be. There are times that I am going through a storm, and she will call at that right moment, and be my encourager. Anytime something happens, my first thought is that I need to call her, because I know she will calm me down and offer encouraging words or the right advice. I just pray that I am at least HALF as good a friend to her as she is to me!!
WHEW. Lemme stop, before I have to explain why I am in tears at work!!! LOL

Today's song is, That's What Friends Are For by (Soror) Dionne Warwick and Friends. *Dionne is still good people even though she didn't make it on Celebrity Apprentice*

Wearing White BEFORE Easter.....

2011-03-28T13:17:00.000-05:00

Monif C "Marilyn" Ruched Convertible Dress

So, I've been thinking...this year...Easter is reallllly late....and you know "they say" you aren't supposed to wear white before Easter...but ummera...who wants to wait until Easter!?!?! So with that said, as soon as we are consistently above 80 for at least three days in a row, I am breaking out a few items that are mostly white. I will wait until after Easter for all white...but I don't want to! LOL

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 5 - A Song That Is Often Stuck In Your Head

2011-03-28T08:02:00.001-05:00

I have a friend..a very good friend and he always suggests music for me to listen to. Last week he told me that he talks in music. Sometimes I wonder if he is trying to tell me something *wishful* Today's song was suggested by a few weeks ago, when I him up on Yahoo! IM and told him to give me a song to get through they day...and now it keeps popping up on my Sirius radio when I am in the car.
It is, Share my Life by Kem.

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 4 - A Song That Calms You Down

2011-03-25T09:45:00.004-05:00

I really think that I am hyper...so this is a difficult one...and again, I LOVE MUSIC! But the one song that I can listen to without growing weary is a gospel song. Does that surprise you? Gospel music is there to uplift, encourage and show us mercifulness of the Lord. Judah, the Praise & Worship team at my church sing this song all the time and it really is moving....I marvel at how God continues to bless me inspite of me.
The song is You Deserve the Glory and is performed here by Juanita Bynum.

Weight Loss Motivation

2011-03-24T23:20:00.000-05:00

Source

So as you know, I am supposed to be on this weight loss kick, for Operation Puerto Rico. For the most part, I have been doing pretty good especially with my eating. ~~(I am saying this as I sit here burping sushi).~~

I have switched from mostly fried food to grilled chicken and shrimp, veggies, and fruit. I do well when I put my mind to it, but tonight, I got a little more motivation.I was talking to my bestie, doing our monthly catch up and she told me that she has lost 16 POUNDS!!!! OMG! I am so jealous!!!!! Well not really jealous, but dang! So, I am refocusing this commitment!! I am getting it together in my mind right now. But it starts RIGHT NOW!

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 3 - A Song That Reminds You of Your Parents

2011-03-24T09:45:00.016-05:00

My mother and stepfather have been married for almost 26 years. This was their song when they were dating. I play it occasionally so that they can get all googly eyed at each other. And how fitting that on this Day 3 of the 25 Songs, it's my stepdad's birthday!! Happy Birthday Earl!!!
The song is Real Love by Lakeside. Such a beautiful song...my desire is that when I get married, this will be the song that we'll dance on and I will have my parents and his parents dance too it also....Because without them there is no us....Now, I just need him to find me!!!!

Must Have: The Dress - Wet Seal

2011-03-23T15:28:00.000-05:00

Wet Seal

Wet Seal recently unleashed their Junior Plus Size line.

Now, ya'll know that I am far from junior age, but lookahere, some things, a girl just gotsta have!!!! This dress is one of them. Doesn't it just scream "I am a Finer Woman of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated???" I will be ordering this tonight!
Z-Phi!!!!!!!!!!

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 2 - A Song That Reminds You of Your Ex

2011-03-23T09:45:00.001-05:00

Ugh. He loved this song and the movie The Last American Virgin...The song is Just Once by James Ingram and was played near the end of the movie.
I don't know why he liked it so much because he really NEVER did his best. *eyeroll*

White Guys With Cornrows.....Just Take Me NOW!!!

2011-03-22T13:03:00.000-05:00

I don't even know what to say.

http://whiteguyswithcornrows.com/

25 Songs, 25 Days: Day 1 - A Song from Your Childhood

2011-03-22T09:45:00.002-05:00

We loved music in my house. So this is a difficult one for me. But since I have to pick one, it is Michael Jackson's Thriller. I loved this song just because of the video! I can remember watching the video for the first time with my little cousin and being scared! Shoot, I probably still get scared a little when I see it. RIP MJ!

25 Songs, 25 Days

2011-03-21T20:29:00.001-05:00

I saw this on the Trendy Socialite blog and thought it was a cute idea!!

I absolutely LOVE music because I feel that it tells a great and powerful story.

So, for the next 25 days, you got it. I hope you enjoy this as much as I think I will!!!!

I will start on tomorrow! :o)

I've Been Featured!

2011-03-21T10:30:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite blogs, Robyn's Nest featured me today! For those of you that don't know my story, I am a Breast Cancer survivor. Robyn gave me the chance to tell my story.

Please click the link below to be taken to her blog and my story of survival!

Robyn's Nest Blog

Giveaway on Big Beautyful Mess!

2011-03-11T18:56:00.000-06:00

Click the picture to enter a great giveaway on a great fashion blog, Big Beautyful Mess!

Rock the Red Pump: National Women & Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

2011-03-10T10:00:00.000-06:00

Today, in honor of National Women & Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, I am rocking my red pumps!

HIV/AIDS awareness is such an important cause, and it's something that definitely affects our community.

So, get involved, get tested, and rock your RED pump to show your support!

For more information, click the link: RED PUMP PROJECT

The Shoe: I Have It!

2011-02-20T20:49:00.000-06:00

I always post what I want, when my closet(s) are full of some of today's hottest fashions!

So I am going to start mixing in what I already have!

I wore this shoe to church today. It was very comfortable despite the 4" heel!

Click the link to order your own :o)

Carlos Santana -- Curiosity in Pewter

Update on my "35" List

2011-02-13T22:54:00.000-06:00

Okay, we are two months into the new year, let's see where I am with my list for this next year! I am only going to leave in the ones that I have been working on or that are supposed to be done on a regular, measurable basis. Let's see.

2. Increase tithes. The Lord has blessed me indeed. I owe Him. (I started doing better with my tithes towards the end of last year. I am still working on the increase.)
4. Blog at least 3x/week/blog. (FAIL, hopefully this will get better..welp)
6. Wear perfume daily. I love perfume and have many different scents...Elizabeth Arden's "Pretty," Marc Jacobs' "Daisy," Calvin Klein's "Euphoria," and Estee Lauder's "Beautiful," just to name a few. No sense in saving scents for Sunday! I am looking to add Armani's "Acqua di Giola" to the stash soon. (I have done okay with this. Most of my scents are springy and light, with the exception of Euphoria, so I haven't worn perfume EVERY day, but I do wear it more than I used to...I also smelled the Acqua di Giola and I didn't care for it much.)
9. Plan my meals weekly and use fresh vegetables as much as possible. (Doing a little better with this, baby steps)
10. Take my puppy to the dog park at least twice a month. (It's been a little cold. So we haven't gone to the dog park, but we have gone to a Mutts & Martinis event at a local dog store and she has really enjoyed herself.)
11. Cook breakfast more, rather than buying it. (Haven't been doing too well here. I don't get up on time.)
12. Eat out no more than 3x/month. I have it bad eating out Friday night, Saturday night, and then Sunday after church. This HAS to stop. (It's slowed down but I still eat out WAY too much)
13. Exercise at least 2x/week + 1 class minimum. (I am doing very well with this. I am proud of myself. I haven't been to any classes though...they just bore me.)
15. Take the meds and vitamins that have been prescribed by my doctor on a daily basis. (Doing horrible here.)
17. Plan monthly outings for my mentees. (What mentees? LOL I have failed here.)
19. Deep condition my hair weekly. (FAIL)
20. Be a better friend to my real friends. (I think this one is going great. I am also weeding out fake friends.)
23. Clean out my garage. Totally transform it. (I have started tackling this. Baby steps.)
26. Eliminate clutter in my home, one room at a time. As I get older, clutter annoys me. (FAIL, with the exception of the garage.)
28. Change purses weekly. I have too many purses to carry the same one for months. Just ridiculous. (Have done very well with this!!)
30. Pay all of my bills ON TIME. (This is getting better. I have most of my bills set on autopay.)
31. Decrease spending. (FAIL)
34. Go to the movies at least once a month. (I missed for January..I still have a few days left in this month. We'll see!!)
35. Buy and replace one bra per month. Don't laugh. I'm serious. LOL (See..what had happened was...I did miss January..BUT I went to Lane Bryant today and purchased three new bras!! Woot woot!! Now to figure out which ones to get rid of!)

Operation Puerto Rico: Gotta Have It!

2011-02-12T22:51:00.000-06:00

Old Navy

Travel: Puerto Rico!

2011-02-10T08:55:00.000-06:00

In a few short months, several friends and I will be taking a much needed vacation to beautiful San Juan, Puerto Rico!!! It has been difficult being the coordinator of such a trip. We didn't really have a destination in mind when we started planning. The purpose of the trip is to celebrate my bestie's emancipation!!! LOL
We knew that we wanted to go somewhere tropical and it was important that the spot be fun. I mean have you ever heard of tropical without fun? LOL We preferred that it be out of the United States, but some people in the group don't have passports...*eyeroll* Please people, get a passport...it's important these days. I haven't even used mine, but I have it..like, what if I woke up tomorrow morning and had a legit email that said, "You won a trip to Paris, but you can only go tomorrow!" All I have to do is pack a bag, whip my passport out, and get on a plane!
So anyway, with that said. I am sooooo excited!! Puerto Rico is a part of the U.S. Territories, so you don't have to have a passport to go. I am so ready for the beach, the casino, the drinks, and the fun! This trip was so inexpensive that I am considering going somewhere tropical at least twice a year!! We'll see how that works out.

What's your favorite destination?

Wordless Wednesday: Must have.

2011-02-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

eShakti.com

14 Things that I Love!

2011-02-06T19:36:00.000-06:00

As I catch up on my Google Reader while the Super Bowl is on, I came across The Curvy Girl's Guide to Style list of things that she loves in honor of Valentine's Day...and I thought that it'd be cute to show off my things :) Please know that this list is not all inclusive, and these are just things that are coming to my head...yes...they are mostly materialistic....and? LOL

1. HTC Evo. My phone. It's all that. Sure is.

2. Facebook. Which can be easily accessed via #1!

3. Macy's. I could spend a whole check there. Yup..sure could.

4. My puppy! I have told many dates...Madison and I are a package. LOL

5. My church!! The James is the best church to go to Heaven from.

6. SLEEP. Need I say more?

7. Music. If it holds my attention, more than likely it's in rotation on my mp3 player.

8. The Dallas Cowboys. Win or lose, they are still MY TEAM!

9. Traveling!!!!

10. Pina Coladas!!!!!

11. Candles. Lighting one really calms me down.

12. Shoes. My weakness. I buy them even if I can only wear them once.

13. COACH. This is more like an addiction. 95% of the time, I am carrying Coach.

14. Pappadeaux. I mean...who in their right mind doesn't love Pappadeaux?

What are your top 14?

Must Have: I Want It!

2011-01-11T09:26:00.001-06:00

My birthday is in five days....I'm just saying.....

Elle Faux Fur Vest

My Open Letter to @Marshalls...(or Why I Will Probably Never Shop at @Marshalls Again)

2011-01-05T23:00:00.001-06:00

I went to Marshalls here in Austin this evening and I had a horrible experience. I decided to blog about it because I am big on customer service...and this lady I dealt with tonight...whew wee....just read for yourself...this is what I sent through the Marshalls website. I am so angry that my lips are STILL tingling!!!! This is also posted on My Hair Is Me.

I had the unfortunate occurrence to visit the Mueller location of Marshalls around 8:00 p.m. this evening in Austin, Texas. While browsing in the store, I came across the "Clearance Rack" in the Women's Department and proceeded to look through it for a black sweater or cardigan. I found exactly what I was looking for in a black button-down sweater with ruffles down the front. The label on the inside of it said, "Red" (brand). This sweater, was still showing to be $29.99 (no red "Clearance" tag was on it). However, there was another Peach "Red" brand sweater that did have a clearance tag on it. There was also a gray ruffled “Red” brand sweater, just like the black one on the clearance rack also for $29.99. I proceeded to take both the Peach colored sweater and the Black button-down ruffled sweater to the customer service desk to ask if the associate (Debra) could scan the item so that I could see, if the $29.99 price was actually correct. However she refused to, and called over Janice to tell me that the item was not on clearance. I tried to explain to Janice that there were several items on the clearance rack that did not have the red "Clearance" sticker. I even took Janice to the clearance rack to show her that there were several items that did not have the red "Clearance" sticker. She told me that the store had just had inventory today and that there may be things out of place. This does not reconcile with me, as a person that has worked in retail before DURING an inventory, I am knowledgeable that a store's management team ensures that all things are in their correct locations, so that the inventory workers can properly assess the store's merchandise. I UNDERSTAND THIS...however, what I don't understand is her lack of customer service and piss poor attitude regarding this situation. On your website, it states that, "At Marshalls we put a high value on our customers, and we want to make sure you're satisfied." I AM NOT SATISFIED tonight. Initially all I asked was that the item be scanned to show me the price. If that associate (Debra) had scanned the item as I requested and shown me that it was indeed $29.99, it is quite possible that I would have just said, well it was on the clearance rack with several other items, and you all may need to check that out. But noooo…she refused to scan the item, then Janice refused to scan the item, and after I showed Janice that there were at least TWENTY items in various sizes on the rack with no red “Clearance” tags, she tried to insult my intelligence by telling me that just because items are on the clearance rack does not mean that they are on clearance, if they don’t have the red “Clearance” sticker. She further tried to insult my intelligence by telling me that she would give me $1.00 off, which would then make the item on clearance. Marshalls…is this what you mean by “we put a high value on our customers??” Because if it is, I will not frequent this or any other Marshall brand store EVER again. As an individual that holds a Masters’ degree in Organizational Leadership and Ethics, it is highly apparent to me that managerial and high regard for customers are skills that are lacking at the Mueller Regional location in Austin, Texas. As well you may need to check the inventory roll at this store, because it’s sure to be a mess.

Going to the gym...or getting pimped by Gold's...

2011-01-04T11:47:00.000-06:00

So, like most folks, I decided to go back to the gym for the New Year. If you have insurance through BlueCrossBlueShield, you can take advantage of their fitness program. With the fitness program, you can go to a entire network of gyms for the flat rate of $29.00/month + tax. Here in Austin, that means I have the choice of going to Gold's Gym, 24 Hour Fitness, or Curves. Great for me, because I actually like 24, but I have friends that have memberships to Gold's.
Yesterday, my friend Moniek, and I made plans to go to Gold's to workout. This would be my first time going in under the fitness program, so I was prepared for it to take some time....as well, I knew that they would try to sell me something...*sigh* Long story short. I now have 36 30-minute sessions with a trainer beginning next week. So..look here..I'ma lose weight, if it's the last thing I do. The 36 sessions will be spread out over the next year. So 3x/month for 12 months. This time next year...maybe I will be Jennifer Hudson's size O_o I keed. I just want to be a little slimmer. Back to my HS size if you will. The guy that signed me up told me that I should work out 5/7 days a week. EVEN on Sundays. He suggested a Pilates or Yoga class for those days...but ummm...I go to church...so we'll have to adjust that.
So, I have a gym membership and I am going to make the best of it. Will ya'll hold me accountable? LOL

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T16:20:00.000-06:00

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35 Things To Do Before Turning 35

2010-12-31T14:11:00.001-06:00

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My 34th birthday is less than a month away! Woot woot!

A long time ago, I decided that I would stop making New Years' Resolutions and to just live better overall! This year is pretty much the same, however, on my good friend and Sorority Sister Loi's blog, Thirty-Something Nothing, she listed 38 things that she would like to do before turning 39. Since my birthday is at the beginning of the year, I decided to piggyback and present you with the 35 things that I would like to do before I turn 35. I have a year and 17 days to go, so let's see what I can accomplish!

For my 11 Hair Goals for 2011, please visit my other blog, My Hair.....Is Me!

1. Learn to sew. I have the cutest sewing machine. I need to put that sucker to work!
2. Increase tithes. The Lord has blessed me indeed. I owe Him.
3. Take a photography class.
4. Blog at least 3x/week/blog.
5. Attend at least one blogger conference.
6. Wear perfume daily. I love perfume and have many different scents...Elizabeth Arden's "Pretty," Marc Jacobs' "Daisy," Calvin Klein's "Euphoria," and Estee Lauder's "Beautiful," just to name a few. No sense in saving scents for Sunday! I am looking to add Armani's "Acqua di Giola" to the stash soon.
7. Learn to create a blog button.
8. Create an inspiration/vision board.
9. Plan my meals weekly and use fresh vegetables as much as possible.
10. Take my puppy to the dog park at least twice a month.
11. Cook breakfast more, rather than buying it.
12. Eat out no more than 3x/month. I have it bad eating out Friday night, Saturday night, and then Sunday after church. This HAS to stop.
13. Exercise at least 2x/week + 1 class minimum.
14. Stop being afraid to paint the walls in my house.
15. Take the meds and vitamins that have been prescribed by my doctor on a daily basis.
16. Lose weight. <--won't put a number. Just lose SOMETHING! LOL
17. Plan monthly outings for my mentees.
18. Get hardwood floors (only after #14 is completed).
19. Deep condition my hair weekly.
20. Be a better friend to my real friends.
21. MAIL birthday cards to friends....on time!
22. Get a large piece of art for my living room wall (after #14 is completed).
23. Clean out my garage. Totally transform it.
24. Host quarterly dinners at my home. My grandmother gave me some very nice china, there's no sense in just letting it sit there. Look for your invite in the mail..(maybe)! LOL
25. Get debt under control. I am slowly working this one out. I have to have patience and understand that my debt did not occur overnight.
26. Eliminate clutter in my home, one room at a time. As I get older, clutter annoys me.
27. Learn the in and outs of Microsoft Excel.
28. Change purses weekly. I have too many purses to carry the same one for months. Just ridiculous.
29. Go out more! This does NOT mean to the club.
30. Pay all of my bills ON TIME.
31. Decrease spending.
32. Create a budget and STICK WITH IT.
33. RUN in a 5k before the end of the year. Austin is full of them. All I have to do is pick one and train for it.
34. Go to the movies at least once a month.
35. Buy and replace one bra per month. Don't laugh. I'm serious. LOL

Preparing for my 34th Birthday!

2010-12-30T09:10:00.000-06:00

The end of the Christmas holiday is always significant for me because it's time to get into high gear for my birthday!!! January 16th is special to me for two specific reasons. One being that it's my birthday, and second being that it's Founders' Day for my Sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Yes, I was born to be a Zeta!!

At any rate, every since I was diagnosed with cancer back in November 2006, my birthday is of uber importance to me (even more than before), because each birthday is another year that I am here. Because of this, my birthday celebrations have been known to be grandiose occasions that require thought, time, and effort on all parties involved. For my 30th birthday, in 2007, I was laying in the bed, feeling sorry for myself, because it was snowing, I was alone, jobless, and preparing to get chemo. Looking back, I know that God was carrying me at that time because there is no way that I would have made it through that on my own. But look at me now! LOL

Below are a few pictures that chronicle birthday number 31, 32 (which was the actual celebration of #30), and 33. What in the world am I going to do for #34??? It's stressing me out! This is what I am thinking...It's a Sunday, so I will definitely be going to church that morning. It's also MLK weekend, so most of my friends are off that Monday. For church, I will wear a red dress, I don't know where this dress is, it may already be in my closet, but I will wear a red dress. LOL.

#31 in Montego Bay, Jamaica with one of the locals...just look at my eyes..and how tight they are!!
LOL Also look at my hair...Approximately 8 months post chemo.

#32, which was actually the celebration of #30. This was Pearls and Pumps and this picture was taken courtesy of the Austin American Statesman. It was used in the Inauguration Edition because we were honoring Michelle Obama with the pearls.

#33, this year. Denim and Noire. We went to dinner at Pappasito's (Mexican sister of Pappadeaux).

So as you can see...this year...GOTSTA be good!!!!!!!!

It's Okay to Say, "Merry Christmas"

2010-12-27T22:59:00.000-06:00

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I know that Christmas 2010 is past us, but I had to come and post my thoughts on this topic. While I was visiting my family in East Texas, I was watching the news and they were referring to the, "It's Okay to Say, "Merry Christmas"" buttons. I wish that I had gotten to one before Christmas because I LOVE the concept. People try to be so "politically correct" these days that it's almost sickening. I was in the local Wal-Mart on Christmas Eve and a lady and I were talking about how they had sold out of eggs, and as I walked off I cheerfully told her, "Merry Christmas!!" and when she responded, "Happy Holidays!," it truly just rubbed me the wrong way!! I also can't stand when people write, "Xmas" instead of Christmas. I actually hid a GOOD friend on Facebook for continually using "Xmas" even after I (jokingly) asked her what "X-mas" was. She told me that she writes it that way because her husband is Jewish O_o
I don't know what this irks me so bad :( I guess because I LOVE the Lord and feel that He should get His propers on His day during His season!

Jumping right in...

2010-12-22T08:40:00.000-06:00

There are exactly three days until Christmas and I am trying to get excited about it. I have had some issues to come up in the last 24 hours that have me reeling, and at this point I just want to get home to my GRANDMAMA. Yes, I am a Grandmamas baby and she makes it all better.
My favorite uncle to ever exist in life was murdered in March of this year, and for me life hasn't been the same since. I think about him everyday, sometimes several times a day, which is weird because before he died, I only thought about him on occasion, or when I called my grandmother and he answered, or when I got home because he always had to give up his room (my old room) and he would always playfully tell me he was glad when it was time for me to come back home. I've only been home one other time (4th of July) since he's been gone, and the last time I saw him was last Christmas, so I expect tomorrow to be hard. Oh yeah. I am going home tomorrow. If God is willing and the creek don't rise (<--Love those old folks sayings.) My puppy and I will be on the road halfway there this time tomorrow morning. My great-uncle and great-cousins are coming to spend Christmas with us, so the comedy is inevitable. They'll be there on Friday afternoon. Lawd. Until I find my niche, most of my postings here will be random. But then again, isn't that what most blogs are for?? I initially started it when I was "teaching" myself to sew..but that fell by the wayside, I am planning to pick back up on it in 2011 though! We'll see :) If you want to read my topic specific blog, please visit My Hair.....Is Me.

Remember Me?

2010-12-21T12:54:00.000-06:00

I am revamping this blog, because I have stuff that I just want to talk about. I don't want to do it on my hair blog because I want to keep it separate, so for right now, I will build my readership on this blog and take over the world! LOL...or just a little piece of it. At any rate, L. Michelle...is BACK!

I'm here!

2009-09-08T09:32:00.003-05:00

I am alive. Just trying to figure out this thing called life and put up with all of it's ups and downs. In the past month, I:

Went on a cruise
Graduated
Decided that I want a puppy
Actually started watching "trash" TV (Franke & Neffe; Tiny & Toya)
Partied the last three weekends in a row
Kissed someone that I shouldn't have.

Talk about FUN. LOL. Happy Tuesday!

It's time!!!!

2009-08-06T00:30:00.001-05:00

The next two weekends are going to be so eventful for me!! Right now, I am burning the midnight oil because I have a 5:45 a.m. flight to catch to Tampa!! I am going on a cruise with my Sorors!!! Then when I get back on Monday, I will be preparing for GRADUATION on Saturday, August 15!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am soooooo excited!!! Can you tell? I am committing to becoming a better blogger since I won't have to worry about school anymore!!!

Ciao!!!

UGH!

2009-07-21T11:46:00.002-05:00

So...I have told all of my "friends" that my focus would be school until my paper for my project is turned in...so why does one of them get snippy when I told her that I would not be going to dinner after church on Sunday because I need to work on my paper, nor would I be hanging out on Friday night for the same reason?? Seriously??? How can you get mad because I am trying to further myself??? GTFOOH!!!!!!!

still here...

2009-07-19T01:14:00.004-05:00

i am still here, just in the lastttttt few weeks of school and trying to crank out a project!! the paper is due 7/27; mock presentation 8/3; public presentation 8/11. i really wish i had time to take off from work. one of my co-workers is taking off the entire month of august...JUST b/c. UGH. i don't think i will every have one month of time built up all at once. LOL i take too many mental health days for that!! at any rate, i do have a mini vaction...lemme stop...I AM GOING ON A CRUISE IS EXACTLY 2 WEEKS!!! yes...this means that i will be cruising AFTER my mock presentation and BEFORE my public presentation. 8/15 is graduation and my family will be here!

oh yeah...today is my baby sister's birthday!!! at 5:34 p.m. she will turn 24 years old. WOW. i am getting OLD!!!!! i have a story that i wrote a few years about about her, i will share it here today. enjoy :)

The day that she was born, I will never forget. It was a Friday, July 19, 1985, to be exact. My baby sister came into this world two weeks late with a full head of black curly hair, weighing 8 lbs. and 9 oz. Every since that day, she has been my joy. The summer that NaKeitha was born, I was nine years old. I’d been waiting for a little sister for a very long time. Like most “only children,” I too had tried the “imaginary friend” route. However, for me, “Penelope” just wasn’t fun to play with! I needed more. I needed someone that could run and jump and climb and play with me. I begged my parents for a sister, and when I say begged, I admit, I pleaded! Finally, somewhere around November 1984, my parents announced to the rest of the family that “we” were expecting. I was bubbling with joy! Maybe my little sister would finally be born. I went to school and bragged to all of my friends that my mother was going to have me a sister. Any place that I visited, people knew that there was going to be a new baby in the Tatum-Roberts household. My expectations of a baby sister, however was short-lived. Somewhere around April 1985, my mother came home from a doctor’s appointment and told my father that the doctor had told her that the baby she carried was going to be a little boy. I was so displeased. A yucky boy! I didn’t want a brother! I wanted a cute little sister. At that time, I staged a protest against my parents. They were happy that they were having a healthy baby boy. Not me! I told them that if they had a boy, I would have nothing to do with him. Oh, they laughed at me. They laughed long and hard. Looking back on that time now, I know that if I’d had a brother, eventually I would have grown to like him, but I was stubborn, and I wanted my way. As time progressed, my parents prepared for the new addition to our family. Everything that they purchased was for a boy and blue! I think I scowled each time a purchase was made! The day of my mother’s baby shower, one of my mother’s girlfriends, decided that she would buy a girl outfit, “just in case.” I can remember hearing my mother ask her if she kept the receipt because there was definitely going to be a boy born. As the date for my sister to be born came and went, my mother became more and more cranky (I think it had something to do with the Texas heat, and the stress of carrying a baby during the hottest month of the year!). Finally, the doctor decided that my mother’s labor would have to be induced. That morning, my mother had to be at the hospital at 6:00 a.m. to prepare for the delivery. I was not enthused…and being the brat that I was, decided that I would go to the hospital with my grandmother later that day. We were cooped up in the “Family Waiting Room” for what seemed like days, when it reality, it was only a few hours. At last, when I thought that I was going to lose my mind from boredom, the nurse came to tell us that my mother’s labor had begun. Everyone was excited. Everyone that is, except for me. I was still maintaining the, “I don’t want a brother” protest. Maybe an hour after the nurse came by, my mother’s doctor came into waiting room and told us that my mother had a great delivery and that she would be brought out soon. He spied me in the corner and told me to come with him because he had a surprise for me. He took me to the viewing window and told me to look through the glass. Standing on my tiptoes, to get a clear view through the glass, I could see the nurse holding a baby. The doctor said to me, “I heard that you were disappointed that you were going to have a brother.” “Yeah,” I answered, embarrassedly. “Well LaTanya,” he said, “say hello to your little baby sister!” I couldn’t believe it! I asked him what happened to my brother. He informed me and the rest of the family that he had made a mistake and hoped that we weren’t too put out by it. I don’t know how everyone else felt that day, but it was at that young age that I found out that God does answer prayers! He had given me the little sister that I so greatly desired! The day that my mother and sister came home from the hospital was a Sunday. I was well prepared to take on my role as big sister. I made big plans for us. I wanted her to play with me and listen to me talk, and basically, let me be a big sister. I was soon crushed because I found out that all little NaKeitha wanted to do was sleep! I have a vivid memory of biting her on her chubby cheeks to get her to wake up so that I could give her a bottle. That day, my mother had ran to the store and told me that if she woke up, to just give her a bottle. I wanted to show my mother that I was good at taking care of NaKeitha, but of course, all she would do is sleep, sleep, sleep. As the years quickly passed by, and my sister began to grow up, I made it my goal that she would always have someone to look up to. Someone that when everyone else had put her down, she would know that she could go to. I have been her protector and she knows that whenever she needs to call me, she can no matter what. Now, don’t get me wrong, we do fight, and sometimes, we let a few days go by before we speak. But for each time that we have had a fight, there have been fifty times that we have shared a ‘sisterly’ moment. I am thankful that God gave me a little sister, and I thank Him for her each time I get.