Well what had happened was....

My gosh I can't believe I haven't blogged since September!!??!!! Where have I been? Can't tell yall! Well here are some quickie updates!

1. I am no longer single I met a realllly nice guy and things are going well! Really happy about that

2. I been AWOL from Weight Watchers too :0( What did that get me? All but 2 pounds away from my highest weight. Not cute.

3. I have had a whirlwind food blowout with a few workouts here and there. My clothing is sooo tight! B/c I had the foresight to get ride of my "old clothing" I have a very limited selection very frustrating.

4. The new job is going well I got an excellent performance evaluation for my 6 month review! I am very happy about that.

5. Back in say October I went to a weight loss surgery seminar to gather some information. It was eye opening and I pretty much said ok you need to try this as an option. I started watching V-blogs on YouTube and the common theme from the seminar to the V-blogs is this is still A LOT of work! I am shocked at how many people lose say 40 pounds and get stuck there b/c they still haven't worked on the reasons they use food the wrong way. That scares me I want to know I am learning and growing its the only way to really be successful.

6. I rejoined WW today I canceled my pre-op appointment mainly b/c its $200.00 and insurance will not cover it and I wasn't so wise with my money worst case I could have gotten the money but I think I need to try and refocus and get back on track with WW and my exercise and learn these mental lessons I need to learn before I do something drastic like surgery so when and if I decided to get it I can know I have the mental part in check and will not fail. I cooked this weekend and went to the gym to workout so I am slowly getting it back to where it was before!

Ok so that's the update I'll try and do better!

Tired...A week off...

I wanted a week off of cooking, packing lunches, counting guess-timate points, sorting,etc so I bought some Weight Watchers frozen meals. Do you know how free I felt to grab a box chuck it in my bag and jet out the door this morning? My goodness I can see why people like nurtisystem or Jenny Craig. Who wants to think all the time? Spend all day shopping, and then practically all day Sunday cooking? My goodness it’s exhausting! Just trying to plan a weeks worth of meals wears me out! But I think that is why WW and the like make these items you can’t always wanna make a feast for a week to stay on point. No wonder people get fed up between finding time for shopping for fresh food, cooking, going to the gym, going to the bathroom, God forbid you have a life with things like AKA and what not! So this is my week off...heck I may take month off. I dunno... I been thinking about Lapband again. I know I am sooo anti but I am also real so we'll see.

Dating & Dieting

Dating while dieting ha always been my downfall...Always... Well I am dating and trying to stay on track but it is sooo hard! I jsut wanna eat and drink what I want!!!! Why do I have to count points and workout and blah, blah, blah! As you cna see I am in a mood...

Oh well I missed last week at WW my home scale says I am wayyy up but its about that time and I think my salt has been up that is not to say I have not been eating out and drinking and going to the movies and having big fun... Gotta find some balance!

Three day weekend!

Well there is nothing like a 3 day weekend to get your butt back in gear! I went to he gym on Saturday did the elliptical (affectionately known as Lippy) for 60 mins, Sunday I did Body Pump and Body Combat and Monday I rested alll day long!

Saturday I am very proud of myself for making it to the gym b/c I was out late and had a late start I went to WW at 9:30 am and I am a 7 or 8:30am meeting person.

***Updates well never made it to get my hair or brows done and my Saturday date turned into Friday night. I was accused of being very organized even though he swore it was not a bad thing (lol) so in an effort to be spontaneous I invited him out to meet me for drinks after I hung out with my girlfriends! It was nice and instead of Saturday we went out on Sunday to see the movie Traitor with Don Cheadle. Great flick! I had a good time! Monday I stayed in and had a friend over and all in all it was great 3 day weekend.

I cooked a few meals for the week and I am pretty much set. I am staying on point b/c I lost 3.4 pounds on Saturday!!! I really don't know how!!! I missed 11 days at the gym and my food was far from perfect but I guess that's a good lesson its not about perfection. I was over in points but maybe I over estimated my points and maybe I was more active that I realized! Whatever the case it made for a good weigh in!

Hair, hair, hair

Well I have been soooo busy it doesn't make sense. I missed WI last Saturday :0( but I did WI at home I was up 1 pound but after losing 6 and its TOM that's par for the course. My food hasn't been stellar but I am doing better every day. I have not been to the gym in almost 2 weeks! I know right!?! Life has been crazy I was really tired all week with TOM and then Friday I went out with a girlfriend and then I went to that play on Saturday and stayed at a Sorors house, Sunday I got hom around 1pmish and just did laundry and chilled and then it was Monday and I skipped, Tuesday I am teaching a class, Weds. it took 3 hours to get home(!!!) and today is Thursday and I am teaching my class again. What is a WWer to do??!! I am going back early Saturday and then to get my do did for a hot date I have Saturday evening! *BIG SMILE*

One of the downsides to working out is keeping up with your hair. I can't lie I do a lot of slacking in that department especially when I am going full force in the gym. But I have to get mine done this weekend you gotta find time ladies!!! This a new spot near me, well it isn't all that new but I like it the trick is to go early I think b/c it can be busy but I will report back Sunday!

Top Dominican Hair Salon
104 Reisterstown RdPikesville, MD 21208
(410) 415-5448‎

While I am out there I may hit up my girl Neha Gupta the Threading wonder woman and get my brows in order too!

Neha Threading Salon and Spa
1430 Reisterstown RoadPikesville MD 21208
Phone 410-653-2769

Monday, again? Already?

Well I had a great weekend! I went out Friday night with a old co-worker/friend to a local hangout and we people watched all night! We had a good time! Saturday I went to see The Saartjie Project. It was so good! I really can't put it to words but I hope they find funding and a larger venue its a great, great show!!!

I didn't make it to the gym or to WW. I weighed in at home and I was up about 1 pound but TOM is here so I'll take it. Saturday I did eat out late and I really didn't have the points so I basically used all my flexies and the food wasn't even great :0(

Sunday I rested when I got in and did some cleaning up and cooking. I didn't go shopping till 8pm! I am so not a night person so that was a big deal for me. But I bought a rotisserie chicken thanks to the advice of my workout buddy and some other things.

I bought the WW oatmeal cookie its 1 point taste great to me! I ended up staying up wayyyyyyyyy to late for me talking to a new "friend" *blush* but now I am paying for it big time. I am sooo tired! Dating hasn't been all that fruitful over the past year or so but I am trying to be more open and more positive about people, places, and things so we will see.

My Day of Rest

Well Sunday was the best! Simply the best I tell you! My Mom was visiting from out of town and it was a nice trip. We stayed up late watching the Olympics Saturday night (Big-Ups to all massive & crew!!!) Jamaica was showing off man! Love it!

A/w I forced myself up to take Spinning class @ 8:30am on Sunday. I made it early and did 10 mins on lippy and then Spin for 45 mins, then Body Pump for 60 minutes and then I went swimming and the best part was I chilled in the hot tub for a few and just relaxed! It was great! I can't think of a better way to spend the day! A/w I felt good, strong and focused. I love swimming and not just b/c Mike Phelps went crazy over in China taking all the gold in sight but swimming allows me to feel weightless and free and the water is so calm and cool it really allows my mind to just be free. Its a great feeling. I need to do it more often way more often.

I went out to eat at Famous Dave's with my friend, Mom & Sister and I worked really hard at staying on point and I was proud of myself in terms of other behaviors ie,. I ate slowly (in fact I was the last to finish I am usually the first), I looked up the calories before hand (that was like a treasure hunt(!!!) but it let me know what I was eating the food had wayyyyy more points than I would have ever guessed but that helped to keep me on track and not over eat), I did not have soda or juice only water with lemon and I did not have desert even though my Mom & Sister split one.

I feel strong and focused.

On the man front... humm nothing much to report the last prospect turned out to be a dud or something I can't call it. An ex came around (calling me) for about a month but when I think about it he's not what I want and he's got too much baggage and issues I deserve more...There's a new prospect and we'll just have to see how that goes :0)

The Saartjie Project

Hi All

I wanted to pump up this local performance entitled The Saartjie Project. Please check out the webpage and consider attending the show this weekend tickets are $10.00!

Down Six!

Down 6 pounds this week!!!!!!!!!!! Eeeeewwwwwwwwwww --------->

It was a great week "Food as fuel" was a good mantra! I earned 30Aps which isn't a lot of me (lol) but it was enough for my body. Ahhh balance!

Crisps-It's A Revolution!

Well I was at work and jonesing for some chips I really wanted some cheddar sun chips but at 7 points for the 99 cent bag it wasn't worth it. Food is Fuel is my mantra! Well I went to the snack shop and figured I'd get some pretzels low cal, low fact, salt ehhhh but it would do. I saw a small package near the donuts (don't ask why I floated over there) and I saw this little bag called Crisps

it was low in calories 45 to be exact and 0 fat and they didn't use any oil, so none of that Olestra fat fat stuff either. I bought the onion and garlic hoping for a sour cream and onion-y taste. Welll I didn't get it. lol. It wasn't bad per se but it didn't taste the way I thought it would. I added some mustard and that made it better. It did however have a GREAT crunch and nice hint of sea salt. I will try the plain flavor tomorrow and report back. Its 1 point and it does hit the spot in terms of wanted an afternoon salt snack. So all in all not bad! I bought it for 85 cents but I can get them on line for cheaper plus S &H is free so not bad!

Up & Down

Ok so I bought a Weight Watchers scale like 2 weeks ago and I have been weighing in almost daily. A few years ago I had to throw my scale away because it drove me crazy I was on and off like 10 times in a day, up and down, it was a bad thing. Fast forward to 2 weeks ago my Mother made a good point that she weighs in often to keep on top of her weight gain. I never thought of it like that well it was working until Saturday and I gained 4 freaking pounds wth?? A/w I weighed in this morning and I was down 4 pounds. I am on blood pressure medication, or at least I am supposed to be and I stopped taking them months ago. When I was in Body Pump my right hand felt tight so I said let me take my medication I am more than likely retaining water because I am very sensitive to salt. This is how I know that...

Last year in the spring sometime I had a super week I stayed on point and worked out every day when I went to weigh in I gained 8 pounds! I almost died literally the Weight watcher's check in lady had to talk me down off the wall and she asked me how did my week go and I told her if anything I should have lost 8 pounds not gained it and she took the time to ask me if I did anything differently food wise and I looked in my journal and I had several frozen dinners that week. Now they were in my point range and all that but she suggested cutting them out completely the next week and see what happens when I weigh in. Well I didn't even weigh in a week later (it was like 5 days) and I lost 15 POUNDS! The WW lady thought the scale was broken! lol But I knew I had lost a huge amount I could feel it. Ever since then I rarely have frozen food (meals or veggies) b/c all of our bodies react differently to sodium. In fact I know someone who was about my size when she began and all she had was Weight watchers smart ones and she dropped 100 pounds in like a year... Lucky her if only I could rely on prepackage, pre-portioned, pre- point labeled boxed food ahhhh but alas I cannot and to be honest even if I could, I wouldn't because I want to be wife and a mother one day and what am I gonna do feed them lean cuisine every night? To me that is not a lifestyle I can live with.

So a/w I got to thinking last week I had sushi twice (with soy sauce most contain over 1000 mg of sodium per tablespoon) and a lean cuisine pizza and a few other processed treats. Not bad for most people but for me its the water retention kiss of death. I know it had to be something b/c my clothing is fitting so much better and I feel smaller and sure nuff that was it. Note to self do not take yourself off of medication your Doctor gives you without her ok and cut back on the high salt food items!

Getting ready for the week ahead

Well I made it to Body Pump this morning had a great workout. It was hard, Les Mills' new advertisement for Body Pump says "When your body screams...tell it to shut up." Well I had to tell my triceps, my chest, my quads, my calves all to shut up all class long. Whew. I went to the local produce market and bought about $30.00 worth of fruits and veggies which at this place is like 4 or 5 bags full!

I goal this week is to think of food as fuel rather than my usual thoughts about food (enjoyment, a way to relax, just to satisfy a sweet tooth, bored, frustrated, stressed, etc.) some of the items I bought were unsalted almonds ($3.99 -11 servings!), zucchini, fresh basil, mixed green, bananas, plums, red grapes, cherries, strawberries, blueberries($1.99), blackberries, sweet potatoes, and peaches.

I came home and literally cleaned out my fridge and threw out anything old or unhealthy that was lingering in there. I portioned out my baby carrots, cherries, grapes, nut, and trail mix. I am sure we have all done it from time to time because it is the right thing to do but we all slack up on the right things to do as well!

I think my weight gain in part was a result of poor planning, that is not to say I did not cook and take food to work, etc. but I took a spoon full of this a spoon full of that and a hand full of that. maybe my portions were distorted a bit. When I think about it I bought the 6 small Jiffy peanut butter containers each is 10 points I finished that in 1 week! That's 60 points? No wonder I
gained!



In the spirit of moving on I took the time to measure A CUP of grapes, A CUP of cherries, baby carrots, almonds, and trail mix.
<----I bought this set of measuring cups from the dollar store! If you do not owe a set pleasure buy one it is amazing what a cup of brown rice looks like or a 1/4 cup of trail mix looks like! I am not trying to be preachy just trying to show you the error of my ways and help you to stay on track!






Goal for Week: 1) Stay on point 2) Earn at least 28 Activity Points 3) Limit processed foods 4) Lose 2 pounds this week to equal 10 pounds loss

Affirmation for Week: Food is fuel, not my friend

My Scale & My Clothing

Well I gained 4 pounds at weigh-in today... How demoralizing... I had a really good week food wise and workout wise I soooo didn't expect that. What is a WWer to do? As part of my insurance coverage I can have a nutritionist and as soon as the card comes I am going to get one.

I am at a loss... but I went to Monte's workout anyway it was tough but I did it anyway. The group has a really positive energy and that helped a little... I am going to push forward this week and hope it was some water weight and a little muscle.

Ok so the title...why can't my scale and my colthing go to an understanding? My clothing is most defintely fitting better! Clothing that was tight last month has room! Shirts I couldnt wear b/c they were too tight on my arm so slip on with ease...



So we'll see.

Geico & Bank of America $$$ Tips

So in an effort to be more fiscally astute and share the knowledge I found out some good info by accident. I have Geico for my car insurance and they told me that if I enroll in the e-pay option with a bank of American checking account I can save $100 a year!!! That is great right? Saving $100 just b/c of the bank I use? Wonderful! So if you have Geico and use BOA there's a tip you can take to the bank!

Second tip is the "Keep the Change" program. If you are a BOA customer and you sign up for this program they will match you annual saving sup to $250.00...free money people! Free Money!

Italian Vouge Finalmente (Finally)

Well I FINALLY got a copy of Italian Vogue! My goodness what a task! The MD/DC/VA area sold out quickly and a good friend of mine in CT. sent me a copy & a Soror from Philly is also sending me one! The Barnes & Noble in Baltimore's Inner Harbor MAY get a shipment of the reprints. Most of the other locations in this area sold out on the first day and then sold out on the re-prints. My advice if you have a good friend out of state call in a favor and see if they can get you a copy but as a backup I put my name on the wait list with the Inner Harbor Location!

Well for the good and bad stuff... Oh the good side OH MY GOD they all look simply gorgeous! I mean stunning, glamorous, and breath taking! You can say what you want about Noami Campbell but she is a baddddddddddddddddd.... woman! She looks flawless in every shot! A nice surprise was "plus-size model" TOCCORA!!! from America's Next Top Model and later Celebrity Fit Club fame! She looked GREAT! She was in a 12 page spread for Champagne Furs. Steven Meisel shot her as well. She looked great...small but voluptuous which which is why I guess she is considered "plus size" she looks great though! My 2 fave shots here...

For the bad...well when I heard the buzz about an ALL BLACK VOGUE... See I thought that it would actually be ALL BLACK! LOL... The cover is great! The inside flap black and beautiful then I shift to the right and I see a very pale young lady in a Valentino ad...hummm...turn the page and there is another, turn again, yet another, then I see the light of PRADA but she's not black either...Turn again... ohhh ahhh Gucci (more to come on their new line they just sent me the email!) but there again and she's blonde...Turn page...Dolce & Gabbana...nope not black...Then Dior... yeahhh maybe Latina...but not Black... Turn again.... Chanel...*sigh* nope...not Black... Surely MCM would have a Black model... well no, no she wasn't... Well my salvation came in Page 50 where Michelle Obama was featured she is sooo classy!

Things pick up around page 74 then on page 94 Naomi's Pinko Ad begins and then things really take off towards the end. The shots are very beautiful, eye catching, alluring and encompass the beauty, passion, and essence of black women. Bene fatto, buono lavoro Vogue Italia! L'amo!

Its definitely a keepsake!

Chobani Greek Yogurt

This more than a product review! It is a product rave review! Chobani Greek Yogurt is the best tasting all natural non fat greek yogurt I have tried! I have reallly tried to like greek yogurt the Trader Joe brand aint bad but I was really impressed with the texture, flavor, and all around goodness of this brand! It's 3 points for my fellow WWer folks but it is well worth it. I had it yesterday on my way to Spin class and I did add a little Splenda but it was good and filling! Giant has it on sale this week 4 for $5.00!

Fleet Feet

So I made a run (phun intended) to my local Fleet Feet Store yesterday. I was on a mission to get some inserts for my Brooks running shoes because I had a bit of pain last Saturday at Monte's Boot Camp. I love the gang at Fleet Feet in Pikesville b/c they are so helpful! And it doesn't hurt that I went to law school with Jeremy! Well I left with these insoles called Super Feet. I tried on the Berry and then I tried on the Green. The Berry felt better and according to the website they are:

"Specifically engineered to address the unique qualities of women's feet and footwear, BERRY's new enhanced features are designed to improve shoe fit, comfort and shock absorption for women who run, walk or stand for extended periods of time."

I was going to Body Pump last night so I was warned not to wear them right away so I am going to put them in today at work and see how they feel and maybe wear them to Spinning tonight! They were a little over $40.00 which is pricey considering the sneakers were only $95.00 but I can feel the difference in the support already so they are a worth while investment!

Weight Loss

I been thinking long and hard about weight loss. Its been a constant companion in my life... seriously its always been there with me this idea that I should/need to/must/gotta lose weight. At different times in my life the desire or the intensity has changed but for the most part the goal has always been there with me like a long time ‘Friendenemy’ (Half friend, half enemy). I been thinking about weight loss surgery because this battle has been raging for at least 20 years and its has gotten progressively worst. I had some success in 2006-2007 when I lost 45.6 pounds but felt defeated when I regained a sizable portion of that. I have been arming my self with information (see post below) and it makes me feel ?better? to know its not all in my head that there is some science to the fact that weight loss is an uphill battle.

I went to the gym and did Body Flow last night at 7:30pm. I went home first b/c I was starving and then went... that was victory for me usually going home means staying home. The class was hard, so hard but I did it. Tonight I am going to do Body Pump last week I wanted to cry in Body Pump I felt so beat down but I am drawing a line in the sand I must pick a side Sida A) this as an actual LIFESTYLE and know I must eat right and exercise faithfully or Side B) get surgery go through that pain and cost and still have to eat right and exercise.

The choice is mine...

Why is it so hard to lose weight?

I am on mission to research as much as I can about weight loss. Here are some articles I found helpful.

http://www.heractivelife.com/women/comment/why-its-hard-to-lose-weight/

http://psychology.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_hunger_works

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/pacificnw09102006/2003248131_pacificploser10.html
http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-he-regain2-2008jun02,1,3711514.story

http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/focus-thinking-differently-lose-weight?page=3

http://www.nurturedsoul.com/drop-pounds-and-inches-with-a-positive-attitude/

http://www.nowloss.com/how-to-break-out-of-a-weight-loss-plateau.htm

In The End

A Soror shared this with me and it rings true so i wanted to post it.

1) What you SEE in your SPIRIT is what you SAY in your HEART.
2) What you SAY in your HEART is what you SOW in your SOUL.
3) What you SOW in your SOUL is what you REAP in your BODY.
4) What you REAP in your BODY is what you ARE in your MIND.
5) What you ARE in your MIND is what you GIVE in your STRENGTH.
6) What you GIVE in your STRENGTH is what you GET in your LIFE.
7) What you GET in your LIFE is what you DESERVE in the END.

Money & Movies

Ok sooooo I'm slacking on the 4-F premise of this blog! I've talked plenty about food, fashion, and even fitness but not so much on the finances. That may be b/c that is a struggle for me. I am working on not spending too much and saving as much a I can. When you are doing that every dime adds up.

The movies are a treat for me b/c I already pay an arm and a leg for On Demand and movies get on there mighty fast so I tend to wait well today I learned that the movies can be more affordable than I thought!

I am at that age when I remember when the movies were 3 bucks! Seriously, I remember my Dad paying that for me to see E.T.! Lately I've paid an average of $10.00 to go to the movies. So if I see a movie , a, meaning only one per month in a year I've spent $120.00!

But today my sister aka the cheapskate extraordinaire (ok fiscally savvy sister) informed me that the first show is only $5.00 in my area! Who knew?? Now I mention this b/c I have a good friend who is waiting for netflicks to see X-Files because of the cost. She is working on saving as much as possible now b/c she bought her first condo this fall after living at home for a number of years. That was eye opening for me b/c she is a HUGE X-files fan, like loves Mulder to death type fan. Now I'm no Michelle Singletarybut I think cutting my cost from $120 to $60 a year would even make her proud!

X-Files was GREAT!!!!

Make Me Better!!!!

Well today I had the Monte Sanders Experience! Well for those that do not know Monte is Ray Lewis' & Ed Reed's (of the NFL Baltimore Ravens) personal trainer. The bootcamp was off the hook! Check him out http://www.sandersoptimumfitness.com/

Last night!!!

I have a thang for Jay Z... I have for years... well last night he did not disappoint! He is a GREAT performer! He is funny, talented, and well Jigga. He performed for about an hour and a half. John Legend was wonderful. He has a new song coming out in October on his new album called "Good Morning" listen out for that its a sweeeeeeet song.

The Fashion was off the hook. Nigeria designer Fati Asibelua, showcased her work at the festival, she founded her boutique line Momo in 2000. Her 2009 line was amazing! I hope there is a way to see them in our area!


Another great designer was jeweler to the stars Chris Aire who showcased $450 million dollars worth of fashion & jewels!!! Off the chain!!!




Here is an article about the event~~> Africa Rising Brings Its Runway to DC & another ~~> Jay-Z, Alek Wek, John Legend And More
At the ThisDay Africa Rising concert in Washington D.C

I had a GREAT(!!!) time!!!

Music & Fashion

Well my sister with the keen eye got us tickets for the THIS-day Music and Fashion Festival. Another important element of Freston's book is that we must have fun! Its weird but in our busy lives we forget to make time for fun! There's work, school, gym, family, friends, and life is just so hectic so I am excited about tonight!

Jay-Z (love of my life!) and John Legend will headline a star-studded lineup from the world of music when THISDAY, Africa's leading daily newspaper and multi-media resource presents the Africa Rising Festival. "Africa Rising" was first launched in 2006 under the direction of THISDAY's Editor-in-Chief, Nduka Obaigbena. Its mission is not only to reflect the culture and positive attributes ofAfrica's social, political, and economic progress, but also to reach out to the continent'sdiverse population as well as the Diaspora and international communities.The show will also feature a major fashion element, as creations by such legendary internationaldesigners as Deola Sagoe, Chris Aire and Momo are showcased by top models Tyson Beckford, Alek Wek, Liya Kebede.

I am so glad I get to go I can't wait! Jay Z always makes everything alright! The event will be held at the Kennedy Center in Dc its not to late to get tickets for tonight! A great time and a good cause what more could you ask for!

1 Pound

The power of just one pound is amazing. I gained one pound today. I am in a foul mood b/c of it but in spite of being in a foul mood I considered the fact that I have not weighed in since 7-8-08 and a lot has happened since then Boule, etc. so I need to focus on what happens next. I bought the WW book Start Living, Start Losing it has inspirational stories about people who have lost weight with WW only $13.00. I also bough the pocket points calculator I get caught out there without the slide all the time and this is helpful only $10.00. I need to surround myself with positive stuff. I just finished chapter 2 of the Kathy Freston book Quantum Wellness and the topic was the 8 Pillars of Good Health two that I need to focus on big time are meditating and visualization. I used both a lot last year and I know it helps and lo and behold today’s WW meeting the topic was Mental Rehearsing.

I made up my mind to as one of my Sorors put it “Go back to basics” and get back on the right path. I know some of the basics were counting points, journaling BEFORE eating so I knew where I was point was, exercising, going to my Saturday morning meetings, and journaling. I’ve been feeling distracted the last year really self imposed distraction and I want to stop that foolishness.

I am going to WI again tomorrow at my "old" meeting and I need to be hoenst I am just embarassed that's why I stopped going. I need tog et over that and go back to what helped me reach my 45.6 last year.

Back tracking

I fell back to a scary place... My emotions got the best of me I'll blame it on TOM or PMS but I started feeling really down and just really bad about my weight. There was a run in with some old friends Krispy Kreme, Ben & Jerry, the pizza parlor and even the 7 11 carrot cake I have not had in over 2 years! What caused the back tracking I can't say...a blast from the past has been calling and I have been considering recycling this ex but in all honesty I know better...but I dabble and I get caught up and I get frustrated and well... I get down.



Last year I told myself in 12 months if I am not back to my lowest weight loss (45.6 pounds) I will look into weight loss surgery. A year of effort to get back on track was a safe bet well its July and at my last weigh in I was at 13 pounds loss... at least 10 more than last December. I HATE THE IDEA OF HAVING WLS!!!! But I hate being overweight more... so I posted this fact on a message board I've been on for at least 8 years and I was shocked at how encouraging most people were. Maybe shocked isn't the right sentiment... disappointed I think may be the most appropriate descriptive term. I know they were being supportive but it made me wonder where is that level of support when I post that I returned to the gym or had a good day food wise?


I did not post it to "test" them but it made me think about where I get support from and how that plays a role in this journey. Similarly, I have not been to the gym since last weekend and my workout buddy and I spoke today and she worked out and I was in bed all day and she didn't say "well think about doing 30 mins or something?"

Maybe I am not clear on what my wants and needs are and that isnt fair to others. I always work off the assumption people will give me what I would give to them. But in reality if I don't say it how can they know?

Anyway I went online looking up weight loss surgery info and ended up on you tube watching various videos and good lawd now I know the meaning of aversion therapy lol I went to the gym and did 60 mins on the elliptical after my research lol! I don't think I've ever done that before! Ever. I bought a new book by Kathy Freston called Quantum Wellness-A Practical & Spiritual Guide to Health & Happiness. Sounds right up my alley. I'll let you know how it goes!


I also bought Oxygen Magazine and my girl Alicia Marie had a great pic & quote!



"I can't
is a
state of mind
I won't
entertain"

2 Days in the life of a Core-ie

What is Core? Well WW has 2 Plans one is the tried and true Flex Points Plan and the other is the Weight Watchers Core Plan. On Core you can eat as much of the approved foods as you like as long as you eat only when you are hungry and stop eating when you are satisfied. There is no counting of calories or points involved in this plan unless you have foods not on the Core Food List. The way my old WW Leader described it is Core is anything you'd find in the Garden of Eden.
Here's some info on Core
Step1) Choose any vegetable and fruit to eat at any time of the day when you are hungry.
Step2) Eat non-creamy soup. The soup can be canned, frozen or homemade with Weight Watchers Core food item ingredients.
Step3) Consume whole wheat pasta, brown rice, potatoes and as many grain products as you choose. Eat as much high fiber cereal with no added sugar as you would like until you are satisfied.
Step4) Eat lean meats such as fish, poultry or eggs. Drink only fat-free milk.
Step5) Cook with healthy oils such as canola oil and olive oil. You can also have safflower, sunflower and flaxseed oils with the Weight Watchers Core diet plan.
Step6) Drink coffee or tea without added sugar or cream. Have as much of any sugar-free beverage as you desire.
Step7) Add condiments to your food such as capers, cocktail sauce, extracts, flavorings. spices, herbs, horseradish, hot sauce, ketchup, lemon or lime juice, mustard, fat free salsa, soy sauce, steak sauce, sugar substitutes, taco sauce, teriyaki sauce, vinegar and Worcestershire sauce.

If 0 is starving and 5 is full, you want to keep yourself in the 1 to 4 position in relation to hunger.
Stop eating when you are satisfied and no longer hungry, not when you are full.


I like Core b/c its a way to eat healthy and stay on track. With the Flex points most people tend to over indulge in processed foods which can stall weight loss as someone once said to me a point isnt always a point! Think about it an apple is 1 point while a lowfat ice cream bar can be 1 point too. Now that ice cream will no doubt have more fat, sugar, and unhealthy carbs vs the nutritious apple but they are both only 1 point. Core forces your to see how many points you can "waste" on things like 100 calorie packs of candy, chips, etc. those items are fine in moderation however I have learned that for consistent weight loss I can not have them every day what works best for me is to have them a few times a week max.

Day 1 back on Core
B- 2 eggs
3 slices Canadian bacon
salsa
strawberries w/ 1 pt vanilla yogurt *
S- peach
L-Ground beef w/ tomato sauce
ww pasta
S-Apple
D- baked salmon
boiled cabbage and carrots
WW ice cream toffee bar *2pts

S- Puffed Wheat cereal
ff milk
Activity = 5 Points for Body Pump -3 pts for non core

Day 2 on Core 7-21-08
B- 2 eggs
3 slice Ca bacon
1 laughing cow *1 pt
S- pear
banana
grapes
L- ground beef
ww/ pasta
mixed green salad

---
peach
apple
grapefruit
1 point yogurt
D-bbq spice pork chop
cabbage and carrots

No workout tonight...

Well the Post Boule "Tour"

I am not a big girl yet so I don't go on the Official Post Boule Tour rather I create my own post Boule adventure! So Saturday I went to the gym and did 40 mins on Lippy and Sunday I did Body Pump. My body was HURTING from all the walking I did last week. I think I forgot how much of a good workout commuting can be! My thighs were on fire for days! Well its Monday, already and I am back to my real life. Alpha Kappa Alpha, sweet AKA! I had such an amazing time being able to be apart of the number at a time like this to celebrate 100 years of sisterhood, sacrifice, style and most importantly service to all mankind is beautiful beyond measure! I am truly blessed to be a member and to be fortunate enough to be able to take part in the celebration!

But now its back to life...back to reality... The reality is I ate a lot of food I would not have normally had I am not there yet in terms of not considering every opportunity to eat out a celebration of some sort. I was low on veggies, on water, on sleep lol but I did what I could. I am proud that I jumped back into my routine a trip is a quick way to fall off track and stay off.

I decided to do Core Plan for Weight Watchers this week. I went out shopping dropped about $100 on lean meats, fresh fruits, fresh veggies, and canned beans. I also cooked a few items on Sunday ground chicken white bean chili, seasoned pork chops, lean ground beef w/ whole wheat pasta, fresh corn and cabbage and carrots. Whew! Variety is the spice of life right?

AKA Boule Check in!

Wellll unlike most of my Sorors I had to work this week. Granted I finagled a schedule that is...hummmm....unique...lol... so I can make it to everything. I am a delegate sooooo that is important. I missed the fireworks but I am sure they were spectacular! I have not even looked at the gym, to be honest I didn't even bring workout clothes because I I didn't need the added stress of trying to fit time in to workout then feeling guilty because I couldn't do it. I am mainly talking public transportation and my thighs are BURNING ME!!!!! I don't even think my thighs hurt like this when I did the Baltimore Half Marathon last year!!! Tonight is the formal and I can't wait I love my dress I will post pics! Its a cute black, baby doll style dress that is pleated at the bottom it looks really good on. I haven't found a moment to meditate. Well I guess I have been doing a lot of thinking about my ex who wants to be my next (lol) I see pros and cons but I am using Boule to distract me. He's called and texted everyday since we began speaking again and that's nice. A/w off to do some work!

AKA Boule!

Well its the official week of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Centennial Boule its a fashion mavens dream. My Sorors are soooo fly! I love it! The venue (the Dc Convention Center) has been transformed into AKA Land and I am loving it!

My workouts are on hold I am normally the Soror who keeps the gym thing going but I have to work and be a delegate and there is too much going on so I didn't even pack one pair of gym pants or tshirt. I maybe should have but I'll get a lot of walking in anyway.

I am at a relationship crossroads my second date didn't pan out :0( but a ex from the past has popped back up again... Ahhh choices, choices anyway gotta run I'll try and post pics and my WI update on Wednesday

Bummer :0(

Well I went back to WW I have not weighed in since 6/17/08 and I was pretty much off the wagon since then food wise and just got back to working out this week so I was up 0.4 I am not happy but I'll take it because in the long run if I did weigh in I am sure that would have been a loss. I feel bummed out anyway but I know I can't be a slave to the scale. On the positive side I made it back to the gym, I am cooking again, eating out less and feeling stronger and tighter. So my good thought for the day is "My future is brighter than my past!"

Oh and I did not do Pilates yesterday my house was too hot even at 10pm my AC needs to get fixed ASAP. I should have done at least 10 minutes but I was just too hot. I was also a bit sore from Body Pump my triceps are really sore doubt I could hold myself up even if I wanted to! lol I plan on going to the gym today and maybe I'll do the Pilates moves there.

Back to Body Pump

Well today was my first day back to Body Pump! Eekkk! I've never been a fan of weight lifting but I have learned a lot over the past 2 years and one of the biggest lessons I've learned is weight training is the best way to lose weight and inches. I read a great book called The Cardio Free Diet. The book basically explains the importance of doing weights in order to lose weight. The catch is cardio can be damaging on the body while weights are less harmful (if done properly) and it helps create more lean muscle mass and the more lean muscle mass you build the more fat you can burn even while sleeping! Furthermore, muscles takes up less space that fat which explains why two people who weigh the same weight can wear difference clothing sizes. This website has some great articles on the topic of women and weights be sure to check it out !http://www.stumptuous.com/cms/.

My issue is cardio is fun, its entertaining and engaging...Weight lifting is not so much fun but I have found that Body Pump is a good marriage of the two best aspects of each.

Here's some info on the class

BODYPUMP It's the fastest way to shape up and lose body fat.

BODYPUMP™ is a toning and conditioning class with weights and is for just about everybody. It's perfect for both males and females who want to add strength training into their aerobic workout. The simplicity of the class makes BODYPUMP™ a great starting point to develop strength and confidence. Hot sounds and compelling choreography keep you going through each 45-minute or 1-hour workout.
What will BODYPUMP do for me?
Burn up to 600 calories per class for fat loss
Improve your strength
Improve your general fitness
Shape and tone your muscles
Improve you bone density (helps ward off osteoporosis)
Give you a sense of achievement

Yeah it does ALL that and more! I came home and did 10 minutes of Pilates my own hodgepodge of moves from the dvd and Body Flow class and I was done! It was a great weekend!!!

Sister Act

What can I say BIG SISTERS RULE!!!!! I was at the gym on the treadmill watching the Williams' sisters it was a great (yet quick) match! Both sisters look great and really fit! Serena has slimmed down quite a bit and looks great! Venus defeated Serena 7:5, 6:4. Today's victory now makes Venus Williams a five-time Wimbledon champion. Congratulations to Venus Williams!



Not to be denied a win at Wimbledon Serena & Venus win the doubles final, defeating Raymond/Stosur 6:2, 6:2. This is now the sisters' 11th doubles title and seventh Grand Slam doubles title. They are 7-0 in Grand Slam doubles finals.




I like the Williams' sisters they are fit and stylist and really exemplify sisterly love!

Change that station!

Last night I found preacher Joel Osteen on the tube and his sermon was so on time. He was talking about the importance of controlling your thoughts. It was reminiscent of The Secret in that YOU control your thoughts and the more positive thoughts you have the more positivity you bring into your life. He explained that if you are tuned into the "Poor Me" station you need to RETRAIN YOUR MIND to reject those thoughts. The bottom line is a lot of us (who are overweight) got there because we accept the negative reports that seep into our minds. "Oh I can't lose weight," "Oh I only lost 5 pounds," "Oh I'll never be thin." A good point Joel made was that we sometimes wake up in the morning and start having negative thoughts and we passively accept those negative thoughts. He gave a good suggestion for combating that instead of accepting it he suggested that we counter that with "No thanks I'm not dwelling on the negative" then insert something positive such as "This is going to be a good day" or "My future is brighter than my past."

It was so on time for me because I slip back into old habit of negative thinking about my weight, my romantic relationship (oh lack thereof), and my finances and I find myself feeling bad which for an emotional eater is a welcome mat to bad habits so I am taking Joel's advice and paying closer attention to what station I am tuned into and being on the offensive and guarding my mind against the negative and latching on to the positive and the hopeful thoughts that remind me I can do anything I put my mind to because God is in control and I can have victory over any challenge I face!

Here are some examples of how I have begun starting my day please consider them!

I am strong
I am beautiful
I am caring
I am loved
I am secure
I am fearfully & wonderfully made
I am blessed
I am smart
I am treasured
I am healthy
I am happy

Gratitude Journals are another way to start the day off in the right state of mind

I am grateful for my family
I am grateful for my friends
I am grateful for my new job
I am grateful for my health
I am grateful for my home
I am grateful for my car
I am grateful for my ability to learn new things
I am grateful for my life



Today I did Body Flow which will get in my Day 5 of Pilates & meditation. I know it may be in my mind but I do feel tighter. My abs already feel stronger and I woke up this morning sore in several parts of my body like my back, arms, and of course the abs. That Pilates twist seemed easy but it was a good move I feel my obliques.

I took my "before pictures" today with my workout buddy I'll post both ( before & after) on or about Aug. 1st 2008!

Pilates Challenge Day 4

Well I made it through the Pilates Challenge Day 4~ God bless Dai b/c I am not a fan of Pilates however I've learn in the past 4 days to appreciate its benefits. The reason I was not a fan of Pilates is because it is hard as hell! But it is a serious workout and tons of stars swear by it
stars such as :
Jennifer Aniston
Kim Catrall
Courtney Cox
Cindy Crawford
Jamie Lee Curtis
Daisy Fuentes
Danny Glover
Hugh Grant
Lucy Lawless
Madonna
Gwyneth Paltrow
Sarah Jessica Parker
Martha Stewart
Rod Stewart
Sharon Stone
Patrick Swayze
Uma Therman
Charlize Theron
Tina Turner
Vanessa Williams Ok well you get the idea I mean all you have to do is look at recent photos of Tina, Vanessa,
SJP & Kim Catrell and know its at least worth a try, right?
But let me be clear...Pilates bodies are made and not born and your earn every inch of lean muscle you develop!

I've been doing the On Demand workouts but I remembered I had the Winsor Pilates DVDs! But I also remembered that was what turned me off from Pilates years ago lol then I found an unopened 2 disc set of Caribbean Workout Pilates! Now I can't tell you when I bought it but I can tell you it cost $5.50! lol so I opted to try it instead. It has 5 different Pilates workout and I decided to do the Stability and Posture workout. It was a great workout I still had to do a ton of modifications but I learned some new moves like the Pilates Twist. Some others I know from Body Flow so that was a nice suprise and I felt confident doing those moves but it was a great workout it was only 20 minutes but I worked up a sweat very quickly!

If you haven't tried Pilates I would say give it a try for at least a week and see how you feel. Don't feel pressured to do it perfectly or even do the entire workout just do what you can and set a goal of improving every time you do it again. Well all have to start somewhere! Another thing about Pilates is that even a 10 minute abs workout can be a great workout!

"Punish the body to perfect the soul"-Mark Twight

Whewwww today was a good day! I did a 75 minutes SPECIAL RMP (Spinning) Class at the gym today!!!!!


Talk about punishing the body! It was a RUSH I am glad I went! I love working out its hard to get back into the routine but when you do it feel soooooo good. Now for a nap! :0) Happy 4th!!!

Italian Vogue...Where are you???

Well with all the hoopla about the all Black July issue of Italian Vogue you would think someone would have told the local bookstores! I have searched high and low but who knew Italian Vogue is the least popular of all the editions in print, even German Vogue can be found at the Barnes & Noble in Owings Mills. Alas I found 2 stores that actually carry Italian Vogue but the July issue is not in yet... I will keep you posted! Here is a slideshow of some of the historic images.

http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2008/06/18/style/0619-BLACK_index.html

Hump Day

Well today feels like a Hump Day for real. My longggg commute yesterday took its toll on me I didn't get up until 6 am and I was going to catch the 6:18 bus (hummm 20 minutes south from where I live mind you lol). I somehow made it to the 6:48 am which got me to work in DC at 8am. My goal tonight is to catch either the 6:30 Spin class or the Body Combat class. I am really trying to get back into going to the gym at least 2 times a week. Since it is a 3 day weekend I have some cushion. Oh I changed my mind about going to New York so that allows me some "me time." I am hopefully going to catch a movie, workout, and have a second date with an interesting gentleman caller oh and most importantly relax!

Today is Day 2 of Dai's July Challenge I did mediate on the bus this morning and what was nice was the driver plays classical music so it helped me to really relax and focus on my breathing. As I did that I went through some Affirmations some examples are "I am strong, I am confident, I am healthy, I am smart, I am beautiful, I am a magnet and I attract healthy and happy people to me, and I am fearfully and wonderfully made." When I start my day with my I AMs I always feel better I got out of the habit of doing them but will work on that during this challenge as well.

The Pilates I will tackle when I get home from my cardio workout at the gym. The ab workout is hard! I was so tired yesterday I did not really talk about it but trust me that 10 minutes is a killer, a killer I tell you but I am looking forward to when I can do it with ease. I also have a Pilates DVD I may do that instead but we'll see either way it will get done!

July is here & so is the Pilates challenge!

Where did June go people?!? Who knows but here we are! Well today is the first day I wanted to make my weekday return to the gym butttt the best laid plans...I caught the wrong bus and the traffic was horrendous! It took me 3 hours to get home...I did do day 1 of Dai's July challenge I did some mediation throughout the day and did 10 mins of Pilates for abs on ON Demand. My workout buddy called me b/c she didn't see me at the gym and that gave me the push to do the exercise at 8pm. Glad I was able to follow though! Below is a lil info on Pilates taken from good 'ole Wikipedia.


History
Pilates was formed by Joseph Pilates during the First World War with the proposal to improve the rehabilitation program for the many returning veterans. Joseph Pilates believed mental and physical health are essential to one another. He recommended a few, precise movements emphasizing control and form to aid injured soldiers in regaining their health by strengthening, stretching,and stabilizing key muscles. Pilates created "The Pilates Principles" to condition the entire body: proper alignment, centering, concentration, control, precision, breathing, and flowing movement.

Mind over matter
According to practitioners, the central aim of Pilates is to create a fusion of mind and body, so that without thinking about it the body will move with economy, grace, and balance. The end goal is to produce an attention-free union of mind and body. Practitioners believe in using one's body to the greatest advantage, making the most of its strengths, counteracting its weaknesses, and correcting its imbalances. The method requires that one constantly pay attention to one's body while doing the movements. Paying attention to movement is so vital that it is more important than any other single aspect of the movements.

Breathing
Joseph Pilates believed in circulating the blood so that it could awaken all the cells in the body and carry away the wastes related to fatigue. For the blood to do its work properly, he maintained, it has to be charged with oxygen and purged of waste gases through proper breathing. Full and thorough inhalation and exhalation are part of every Pilates exercise. Pilates saw forced exhalation as the key to full inhalation. “Squeeze out the lungs as you would wring a wet towel dry,” he is reputed to have said. Breathing, too, should be done with concentration, control, and precision. Breathing, not only oxygenates the muscles, but proper breathing reduces tension in the upper neck and shoulders. Pilates breathing is a posterior lateral breathing, meaning when inhaling you breathe deep into the back and sides of your rib cage. At the same time as you exhale you feel the engagement of your deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles and maintain this engagement as you inhale. It should be properly coordinated with movement. Each exercise is accompanied by breathing instructions. Joseph Pilates stated, “Even if you follow no other instructions, learn to breathe correctly.”

Centering
Pilates called the very large group of muscles in the center of the body – encompassing the abdomen, lower back, hips, and buttocks – the “powerhouse.” All energy for Pilates exercises begins from the powerhouse and flows outward to the extremities. Physical energy exerted from the center coordinates one’s movements. Pilates felt that it was important to build a strong powerhouse in order to rely on it in daily living. Modern instructors call the powerhouse the “core”.

Concentration
Pilates demands intense focus. For instance, the inner thighs and pelvic floor may be assessed when doing a standing exercise that tones the triceps. Beginners learn to pay careful attention to their bodies, building on very small, delicate fundamental movements and controlled breathing.

Control
Joseph Pilates built his method on the idea of muscle control. That meant no sloppy, uncontrolled movements. Every Pilates exercise must be performed with the utmost control, including all body parts, to avoid injury and produce positive results. Pilates emphasizes not intensity or multiple repetitions of a movement, but proper form for safe, effective results.

Precision
Every movement in the Pilates method has a purpose. Every instruction is vitally important to the success of the whole. To leave out any detail is to forsake the intrinsic value of the exercise. The focus is on doing one precise and perfect movement, rather than many halfhearted ones. Eventually this precision becomes second nature, and carries over into everyday life as grace and economy of movement.

Flow or efficiency of movement
Movement should be kept continuous between exercises through the use of appropriate transitions. Once precision has been achieved, exercises should flow within and into each other in order to build strength and stamina.

Baltimore's Farmers Market

I am ashamed to say but I have been in the Baltimore area since 2000, when I began law school and this past Sunday was the first time I ever went to the Baltimore's Farmers Market. *GASP* As promised I want to make this blog about food, fitness, finances & fashion so this trip ties into all four! Under food, is the obvious one, its a farmer's market and there was fresh fruits and veggies as far as the eye could see! There were wonderful spices and flowers too! There was also cooked food from almost every part of the planet! My friends and I sampled some Lemon Jerk fried fish..deeeelish!


Under the finance heading the prices were unbelievable! My friend bought cherries, fresh corn, red potatoes, green beans, and onions for less than $10.00! You can't beat that. I bought a freshly popped bag of kettle corn for $3.00 it was a steal. As far as fitness, you can get a lot of walking in with this venue so its adds to your Activity Points! And lastly, under fashion you get to see some really unique jewelry there... head all the way to the back of the market! Also you may see a local celeb or two we spotted Tim Tooten from television's WBAL news and former Mayoral Candidate Kiefer Mitchell supporting the local ecomony! Kudos to them! Don't miss out here's the info!

Baltimore Farmers' MarketDowntown: Saratoga Street between Holliday and Gay Streets (under JFX Viaduct) Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to Noon (or sell out) May 4 - December 21Contact: Carole Simon 410-752-8632

ENJOY!

Back to Bizzznezzz

Well this weekend marked my great return to the gym. I am a recovering cardio-crackhead. I will post my old blog on the right so you can catch up! I am a huge fan of Les Mills Programs. You see last year around this time I was at a total loss of 45.6 pounds. At the time I was disappointed but now that I am at a total loss of 13.6 & I am yearning for the days of ole when I had "only" lost 40 pounds *insert gas face here* I have been bitter about it and I think I am finally over being bitter and ready to get back to the basics. A few things 1) I've already been successful at Weight Watchers 2) I know a lot more today than I did 2 years ago 3) I have more confidence in my ability to reach this goal because I have a true desire to lose the weight.





The first thing I did was call my old WW/workout buddy "A." I woke up around 7:30am on Saturday and called her and asked her what she was doing today and she said nothing so I said you want to go to Body Combat??!! (I am in love with that man onthe right even though that's hi s fiancee int he pic DAN is the Man!) She was quiet for a few seconds and said "Yes...I'll...go" Now A and I had a good buddy system going for awhile that kinda fell apart. I think our personalities are very different and what she took as me chastising her I meant as motivation. Also what I took as disinterest was her giving me room to grow and learn at my own pace. Along the way we fell out of each other's good graces and we went our separate ways. She got a personal trainer at a different gym and I kept going to our old gym and gaining a losing the same 5-10 pounds. We still kept in touch and at the time worked at the same job so we'd check in on each other from time to time but the funny things is when we were good, we were very good. I think a buddy is very important. Not only to help motivate you but to be a support system and a kick in the rear if need be. I get a lot out of helping people that's just my personality so I think kick-starting this partnerships will be a good move.





On Sunday I went to Body Step *whew* It had been a minute but I made my way through the class but I was really shocked at how my cardio level has gone down in such a short span of time! I planned to do Body Pump but that would have been too much! And to think a year ago I could do Body Step, Body Pump and then Body Flow like it was a walk in the park! Shame! But it will be just a matter of time before I get my stride back!

Its here!!!!! Well on July 11th anyway.

The new iPhone is here! Yeahhhh!!! I held out because I knew there would be bugs to work out on the first one plus I knew once the hype was all said and done the price would drop! I'm gonna check it out ! I really ahd my heart set on the Blackberry pearl buttttt we'll see!

http://tech.msn.com/products/articlepcw.aspx?cp-documentid=7964644&GT1=40000

Welcome

I enjoy blogs so much I said let me make (another) one! The other one I have is about my Weight Watchers journey I still post but my journey has evolved to more than just weight loss although weight loss is still very important to me. To kick things off I have 3 raves one is about Food: Newman's Own Lighten Up Low Fat Sesame Ginger Dressing

Of all the places I found this at McDonald's !!! They have a great Asian Chicken Salad and I really love this stuff!! Its only 1 point for 2 Tablespoons you can't beat that!

My second rave is about Fashion: In a word...Aldo! I was in a pinch and needed a fly red bag (yes AKAs look good in every color including reddddddd!) and I went there and I found THE bag its so cute I was stopped at least 5 times that day and about that bag! The online store has more options but I must say I really like their stuff good prices, good style, what more can a girl ask for? Aldo

Now everyone knows AKA's Boule is coming to DC and Aldo must be on the payroll! Check it out Sorors!

http://www.aldoshoes.com/eng/storeSection/redirect.cfm?sectionID=b2c/style/productDetails.cfm&itemID=68524855&&var=d&itemCategoryLevel1=321&ckey=US&colorid=55

http://www.aldoshoes.com/eng/storeSection/redirect.cfm?sectionID=b2c/style/productDetails.cfm&itemID=67002246&&var=d&ckey=US&colorid=55

http://www.aldoshoes.com/eng/storeSection/redirect.cfm?sectionID=b2c/style/productDetails.cfm&itemID=68827012&&var=d&ckey=US&colorid=70