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Confession time... this is probably my last post for the year 2015. I am having a small NYE gathering and tonight I will be party cleaning my house and making a few appetizers. Party cleaning is basically half assed cleaning and shoving things in closets and drawers because cleaning before a New Years party is just dumb. #drunkpeopledontcare #dimthelightsherewego


Does anyone remember how much I typically hate NYE? It's sooooo couple-y I just typically, for the last many years or so, have dreaded it. I am hoping that this year will be at least a little bit better. Although I would not say I am in any way coupled up in the traditional sense. But this year there will be another single guy person at the party with me... does that count? #thisisprogress #stillwaitingformymoviemoment


My last NYE sucked ass. Anyone remember my blind date that proceeded to psuedo stalk me afterward because I didn't invite him to spend the entire night with me and my friends? I would direct you to the post I wrote about it but I had to delete it because he found my blog and started blasting me via text which completely freaked me out. #justsayno #newyearsblinddatesarebad

 

I had dinner last night with a friend I don't get to see very often. She called on the spur of the moment and 15 minutes later we were at a local Mexican restaurant eating chips, laughing and drinking beers. It was such a nice surprise and great to catch up. #girlfriendsarethebest #andshescomingtomyparty


Since all we have had for like 10 days is rain I have also had curly hair for dayzzzz. So, last weekend I burned the shit out of my arm with the curling wand whilst trying to make my curls more perfect. It legit looks like someone put a cigarette out on me. #narrowlymissedatattoo #beautyhurts #couldhavebeenworse


Happy Humpday Folks! And if I don't make it back here before the New Year... party like a rockstar for me on NYE. #youllbeingoodcompany #snapchatittoo

Who doesn't love #drunksanta?


I wonder how long they let her beat the wall?



I love that my friends are all getting married again... for this reason.


#ouch



#icanteven



Do not google the word #wasted.


Seriously folks, be safe! See ya on the flip side!

Linking up with Kathy and Nadine,

More Coffee Less Talky

Lolo and Lauren!

#Hashtaghumpday @ Genuinely Lauren

Humpday Confessions & #HASHTAG Humpday

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Confession time... this is probably my last post for the year 2015. I am having a small NYE gathering and tonight I will be party cleaning my house and making a few appetizers. Party cleaning is basically half assed cleaning and shoving things in closets and drawers because cleaning before a New Years party is just dumb. #drunkpeopledontcare #dimthelightsherewego


Does anyone remember how much I typically hate NYE? It's sooooo couple-y I just typically, for the last many years or so, have dreaded it. I am hoping that this year will be at least a little bit better. Although I would not say I am in any way coupled up in the traditional sense. But this year there will be another single guy person at the party with me... does that count? #thisisprogress #stillwaitingformymoviemoment


My last NYE sucked ass. Anyone remember my blind date that proceeded to psuedo stalk me afterward because I didn't invite him to spend the entire night with me and my friends? I would direct you to the post I wrote about it but I had to delete it because he found my blog and started blasting me via text which completely freaked me out. #justsayno #newyearsblinddatesarebad

 

I had dinner last night with a friend I don't get to see very often. She called on the spur of the moment and 15 minutes later we were at a local Mexican restaurant eating chips, laughing and drinking beers. It was such a nice surprise and great to catch up. #girlfriendsarethebest #andshescomingtomyparty


Since all we have had for like 10 days is rain I have also had curly hair for dayzzzz. So, last weekend I burned the shit out of my arm with the curling wand whilst trying to make my curls more perfect. It legit looks like someone put a cigarette out on me. #narrowlymissedatattoo #beautyhurts #couldhavebeenworse


Happy Humpday Folks! And if I don't make it back here before the New Year... party like a rockstar for me on NYE. #youllbeingoodcompany #snapchatittoo

Who doesn't love #drunksanta?


I wonder how long they let her beat the wall?



I love that my friends are all getting married again... for this reason.


#ouch



#icanteven



Do not google the word #wasted.


Seriously folks, be safe! See ya on the flip side!

Linking up with Kathy and Nadine,

More Coffee Less Talky

Lolo and Lauren!

#Hashtaghumpday @ Genuinely Lauren


Hey!!! The Break Up Challenge starts on Jan. 4th with my good buddy Laura in case ya didn't know, check it out here if you want the deets. So... Whole30 is on my mind big time.  My life was sooooo different last year when I first took this on. I was  an unemployed, somewhat depressed, single Mom. The bonus was I had a lot of time on my hands and a lot of motivation to just control any part of my life that I could and food/diet was the most obvious choice as it was the new year.  I thought today I would take a minute to do a little stream of consciousness exercise and try to put into words the first things I could think of that helped me be successful the first time around, and try to figure out how I can adapt them to the way my life is now.

Let me just say first and foremost... don't cheat. Don't try to "adapt" it because you need dairy or peanut butter because yeah... you don't. Just do it the way they say to do it. Suck it up. Or it's not a Whole30. Sorry. You can do this, really. If I can, trust me you can! Do you hate me now? Umm... I don't care.

Planning Is Key - Even though last time I was at home and had all the time in the world to cook I was broke so I had to plan to eat well on a budget. This time I have a little more money but a lot less time. Not sure which is more of a challenge but I am going to go with less time. Less time often leads to bad choices. Right now I am planning in my planner, in my brain, in my pantry, shopping lists, meal prepping, upcoming challenges, work lunches/breakfasts and everything in between. In my opinion the first week really sets the tone for your next 30 days so whatever you do... don't fuck it up!!! Be ready to hit the ground running.

Pick up a prep day the Saturday or Sunday before you start and stick with it every week thereafter. Cook the things you know you will like and that will satisfy you for the first week/subsequent weeks. I was hangry 24/7 last time during the first 7 days. So for me this means cooking protein, fat and precooked veggies. I will be grilling up lean chicken, beef, chicken sausage, fish, making my Whole 30 Mayo, hardboiled eggs for deviled eggs, bacon, egg muffins, white potatoes and sweet potatoes for breakfasts and lunches.

Make some nut butters or buy some super clean almond, macadamia, walnut or cashew butter from your local market (ground nuts only). Seriously, this was my saving grace because it was somewhat like a treat for me, super satisfying because... fat... and truly delicious. (walnut is tricky so google it, very good if you do it right but takes extra work since they have such a strong flavor) I can not tell you how many times I reached for a spoonful just to keep myself from going crazy. This does get better as the 30 days goes on though and I found I needed it less. Yes, it's a lot of fat and calories. Yes, you will still lose weight. Just don't eat a tub a day!

If you like drinking you better think about this because you are going to be shit out of luck if you don't. Obvs booze and soda are off limits but who the hell can drink water for 30 days? I can easily make the switch to black coffee but teas were also my saving grace. Not to beat a dead horse but I love Teami Blends and I will be using their 30 Day Detox teas again for this round of my Whole 30. You can read about all the ups and downs of that here and if you want to order some use code CWW17 until Dec. 30th for 17% off your order or code ROSE for 10% off anytime. Hot drinks are satisfying and I loved the both the Skinny and Colon Teas for all of their other benefits as well. I also loved Kombucha, read your labels and make sure there is no added sugar. I like GT's Kombucha the best! 

Whole30 Mayo - Make it!!! Yes it has raw eggs, no you will not get food poisoning. You can adapt it with seasonings to make compliant salad dressings, dipping sauces and the like. I could not have survived without it! I put that shit on errythang!

Buy Coconut Aminos and Sriracha... both awesome flavor enhancers. I put that shit on everything too. 

Lettuce wrap your turkey burgers, sirloin burgers, salmon burgers, chicken salad... don't give up your burgers and sandwich/wrap type things. It sounds weird but even a burger wrapped in lettuce makes you feel like you are still eating  a real burger with a bun.

FYI - Here is a look at what I ate last time. I know I don't have links but pics are all on my IG you just have to scroll back a lil bit or hit me up! Highlights are... spinach, berries, zoodles, avocado, chicken sausage, eggs, turkey bacon, cauliflower rice, spaghetti squash, bananas, unsweetened coconut, potato waffles, onions... lots of onions!

That's just a little bit more for today to think about, or what I'm thinking about anyway. More to come! So, so ready to get back to some really clean eating!

Who's with me???



Your favorite fatty,

Gearing Up For Whole30 Round 2 - Planning For Success

Tuesday, December 29, 2015


Hey!!! The Break Up Challenge starts on Jan. 4th with my good buddy Laura in case ya didn't know, check it out here if you want the deets. So... Whole30 is on my mind big time.  My life was sooooo different last year when I first took this on. I was  an unemployed, somewhat depressed, single Mom. The bonus was I had a lot of time on my hands and a lot of motivation to just control any part of my life that I could and food/diet was the most obvious choice as it was the new year.  I thought today I would take a minute to do a little stream of consciousness exercise and try to put into words the first things I could think of that helped me be successful the first time around, and try to figure out how I can adapt them to the way my life is now.

Let me just say first and foremost... don't cheat. Don't try to "adapt" it because you need dairy or peanut butter because yeah... you don't. Just do it the way they say to do it. Suck it up. Or it's not a Whole30. Sorry. You can do this, really. If I can, trust me you can! Do you hate me now? Umm... I don't care.

Planning Is Key - Even though last time I was at home and had all the time in the world to cook I was broke so I had to plan to eat well on a budget. This time I have a little more money but a lot less time. Not sure which is more of a challenge but I am going to go with less time. Less time often leads to bad choices. Right now I am planning in my planner, in my brain, in my pantry, shopping lists, meal prepping, upcoming challenges, work lunches/breakfasts and everything in between. In my opinion the first week really sets the tone for your next 30 days so whatever you do... don't fuck it up!!! Be ready to hit the ground running.

Pick up a prep day the Saturday or Sunday before you start and stick with it every week thereafter. Cook the things you know you will like and that will satisfy you for the first week/subsequent weeks. I was hangry 24/7 last time during the first 7 days. So for me this means cooking protein, fat and precooked veggies. I will be grilling up lean chicken, beef, chicken sausage, fish, making my Whole 30 Mayo, hardboiled eggs for deviled eggs, bacon, egg muffins, white potatoes and sweet potatoes for breakfasts and lunches.

Make some nut butters or buy some super clean almond, macadamia, walnut or cashew butter from your local market (ground nuts only). Seriously, this was my saving grace because it was somewhat like a treat for me, super satisfying because... fat... and truly delicious. (walnut is tricky so google it, very good if you do it right but takes extra work since they have such a strong flavor) I can not tell you how many times I reached for a spoonful just to keep myself from going crazy. This does get better as the 30 days goes on though and I found I needed it less. Yes, it's a lot of fat and calories. Yes, you will still lose weight. Just don't eat a tub a day!

If you like drinking you better think about this because you are going to be shit out of luck if you don't. Obvs booze and soda are off limits but who the hell can drink water for 30 days? I can easily make the switch to black coffee but teas were also my saving grace. Not to beat a dead horse but I love Teami Blends and I will be using their 30 Day Detox teas again for this round of my Whole 30. You can read about all the ups and downs of that here and if you want to order some use code CWW17 until Dec. 30th for 17% off your order or code ROSE for 10% off anytime. Hot drinks are satisfying and I loved the both the Skinny and Colon Teas for all of their other benefits as well. I also loved Kombucha, read your labels and make sure there is no added sugar. I like GT's Kombucha the best! 

Whole30 Mayo - Make it!!! Yes it has raw eggs, no you will not get food poisoning. You can adapt it with seasonings to make compliant salad dressings, dipping sauces and the like. I could not have survived without it! I put that shit on errythang!

Buy Coconut Aminos and Sriracha... both awesome flavor enhancers. I put that shit on everything too. 

Lettuce wrap your turkey burgers, sirloin burgers, salmon burgers, chicken salad... don't give up your burgers and sandwich/wrap type things. It sounds weird but even a burger wrapped in lettuce makes you feel like you are still eating  a real burger with a bun.

FYI - Here is a look at what I ate last time. I know I don't have links but pics are all on my IG you just have to scroll back a lil bit or hit me up! Highlights are... spinach, berries, zoodles, avocado, chicken sausage, eggs, turkey bacon, cauliflower rice, spaghetti squash, bananas, unsweetened coconut, potato waffles, onions... lots of onions!

That's just a little bit more for today to think about, or what I'm thinking about anyway. More to come! So, so ready to get back to some really clean eating!

Who's with me???



Your favorite fatty,


I... had a really great Christmas. This year was different, that seems to be a recurring theme in my life, everything changes now, all the time. I don't know why that is but it's ok. I had four days off work which I thoroughly enjoyed but being a contractor that's not really all it's cracked up to be. I don't work, I don't get paid so two days off is kind of a bittersweet vacay for me. Next weeks paycheck won't be so great but... you know what? It's ok. I came home from work on Wednesday night and didn't leave my house again until Saturday afternoon. I enjoyed 2 whole glorious days with my children, cooking, eating, opening gifts and just generally having "a big time" as they say here in the South. Thursday was spent mostly making sweet stuff with the kids and a killer prime rib dinner, our tradition. We had a wedge salad, twice baked potato casserole, prime rib with horseradish cream and cookies from the neighbors for dessert. My 16 year old and I wrapped all of the gifts on Christmas Eve and I finally shut it down around 2 a.m. exhausted and content. It was not one of those years that I felt really motivated to get it done early and that was fine. It has been my thing for years to be the last one standing on Christmas Eve, listening to some music and enjoying the tree full of beautifully wrapped gifts. It's very satisfying to me.

Christmas morning got going shorty after 8:00 which was not too turrible. It was over pretty quickly too...The kids were all really happy with the things they got from Santa and Mom. It makes me feel so good to see them excited about every little thing under the tree. This year I was able to do more but we still have a modest Christmas in comparison to most of our friends. I don't have the luxury of spending a grand per kid.  My son got his first phone which, considering he is 13, is really pretty late but he was super excited. It cost me 99 cents and an additional $20 a month on my bill, my boy deserves it! My girls also got some of the things they really wanted and they were surprised too. All in all it was a great Christmas for the kids and that's what it's all about!



Christmas night the kids were gone and it was time for some adult fun and no pictures! I treated myself to Cards Against Humanity and holy shit that game is fun! The man friend came over along with one of my BFF's and her hubby and we drank some wine and laughed our asses off over really horrible fill in the blank questions. Perfect end to a long couple of days.

The rest of the weekend was a flurry of Netflix, slobbin, post Christmas partying, and a first ever trip to the gun range. I shot guns at targets and I really liked it! What a huge adrenaline rush!!! I didn't totally suck either. I have dated several guys who have carry permits, are hunters, ex military, etc. but this was the first time I've actually been shooting at a gun range. It was pretty cool, very crowded, loud and hot... as in sweaty hot. I think it was the adrenaline thing, that and spent shells flying around which actually are pretty freaking hot when they hit you.  Sorry no pics of me actually firing, I was more concerned with not accidentally shooting something I wasn't supposed too. It was really fun...then we went to the bar for Bloody Mary's, beers and football. Sunday funday over!


Hope everyone had a great holiday!!!

Linking up with Biana!

Christmas Weekending - The Most Wonderful Time

Monday, December 28, 2015


I... had a really great Christmas. This year was different, that seems to be a recurring theme in my life, everything changes now, all the time. I don't know why that is but it's ok. I had four days off work which I thoroughly enjoyed but being a contractor that's not really all it's cracked up to be. I don't work, I don't get paid so two days off is kind of a bittersweet vacay for me. Next weeks paycheck won't be so great but... you know what? It's ok. I came home from work on Wednesday night and didn't leave my house again until Saturday afternoon. I enjoyed 2 whole glorious days with my children, cooking, eating, opening gifts and just generally having "a big time" as they say here in the South. Thursday was spent mostly making sweet stuff with the kids and a killer prime rib dinner, our tradition. We had a wedge salad, twice baked potato casserole, prime rib with horseradish cream and cookies from the neighbors for dessert. My 16 year old and I wrapped all of the gifts on Christmas Eve and I finally shut it down around 2 a.m. exhausted and content. It was not one of those years that I felt really motivated to get it done early and that was fine. It has been my thing for years to be the last one standing on Christmas Eve, listening to some music and enjoying the tree full of beautifully wrapped gifts. It's very satisfying to me.

Christmas morning got going shorty after 8:00 which was not too turrible. It was over pretty quickly too...The kids were all really happy with the things they got from Santa and Mom. It makes me feel so good to see them excited about every little thing under the tree. This year I was able to do more but we still have a modest Christmas in comparison to most of our friends. I don't have the luxury of spending a grand per kid.  My son got his first phone which, considering he is 13, is really pretty late but he was super excited. It cost me 99 cents and an additional $20 a month on my bill, my boy deserves it! My girls also got some of the things they really wanted and they were surprised too. All in all it was a great Christmas for the kids and that's what it's all about!



Christmas night the kids were gone and it was time for some adult fun and no pictures! I treated myself to Cards Against Humanity and holy shit that game is fun! The man friend came over along with one of my BFF's and her hubby and we drank some wine and laughed our asses off over really horrible fill in the blank questions. Perfect end to a long couple of days.

The rest of the weekend was a flurry of Netflix, slobbin, post Christmas partying, and a first ever trip to the gun range. I shot guns at targets and I really liked it! What a huge adrenaline rush!!! I didn't totally suck either. I have dated several guys who have carry permits, are hunters, ex military, etc. but this was the first time I've actually been shooting at a gun range. It was pretty cool, very crowded, loud and hot... as in sweaty hot. I think it was the adrenaline thing, that and spent shells flying around which actually are pretty freaking hot when they hit you.  Sorry no pics of me actually firing, I was more concerned with not accidentally shooting something I wasn't supposed too. It was really fun...then we went to the bar for Bloody Mary's, beers and football. Sunday funday over!


Hope everyone had a great holiday!!!

Linking up with Biana!


Just a quick reminder as the year draws to a close! If you are thinking about a detox to kick off the New Year because... who couldn't use that, Teami Blends has extended their 17% off sale until the 30th. Seriously folks I do love their teas and especially their 30 Day Detox. I will be incorporating this into The Break Up Challenge I'm hosting with Laura from  Life With Lolo that kicks off on Jan. 4th. I did the detox last year in conjunction with my first Whole 30 and had amazing results! 20 lbs and 11 inches lost over all. If you would like to give it a try this is a great opportunity to get it for a great price! Use code CWW17 at checkout!

Oh and if you don't know about The Breakup Challenge check it out here and join us to kick off the new year in a healthy way and pick one of your bad habits to break up with!


Teami Blends Sale Extended

Sunday, December 27, 2015


Just a quick reminder as the year draws to a close! If you are thinking about a detox to kick off the New Year because... who couldn't use that, Teami Blends has extended their 17% off sale until the 30th. Seriously folks I do love their teas and especially their 30 Day Detox. I will be incorporating this into The Break Up Challenge I'm hosting with Laura from  Life With Lolo that kicks off on Jan. 4th. I did the detox last year in conjunction with my first Whole 30 and had amazing results! 20 lbs and 11 inches lost over all. If you would like to give it a try this is a great opportunity to get it for a great price! Use code CWW17 at checkout!

Oh and if you don't know about The Breakup Challenge check it out here and join us to kick off the new year in a healthy way and pick one of your bad habits to break up with!






Wishing all of you a very merry and blessed Christmas and peace in the coming New Year!


Merry Christmas!

Friday, December 25, 2015





Wishing all of you a very merry and blessed Christmas and peace in the coming New Year!


Happy Christmas Eve Eve my friends! Today is my last workday for the week and as luck would have it it's going to be a busy one. How in the holy hell does that happen??? I have some weeks that things are relatively slow but it never fails... holiday weeks kick my ass! so this might be short and sweet but I felt that I really wanted to post something today because my mood is... well, I kinda feel like I am already on holiday. So here we go...

I think this is going to be one of the best Christmases I have had in a very long time. I have successfully spent the last 2 weeks shopping carefully and thoughtfully and I think I have managed to procure things for each kid that are going to make them so, so happy without breaking the bank! I'm feeling so accomplished. Like the best gifts they have had post divorce/single income family! If it wasn't for family and friends and their love & support none of  this would be possible. Oh and I work my ass off too.  #momoftheyear #ballinonabudget #popsometags


So I stepped on the scale the other day just because I have not in awhile and I have been a lil O.O.C. I though better to know now than be devastated on Jan. 4th when the #breakupchallenge2016 commences. So.... I gained a few lbs but not horrible. I deserve it. But it's been fun and now the party is almost over but not for a few more days!! #youknowwhatthatmeans #cookiesandeggnog #tonitewedrinkandeat


My kids are leaving on Christmas afternoon to go be with their Dad and I think, for once I won't be alone on Christmas or #thirdwheeling it. #waitwhaaaaaat #imightnotbealoserafterall #andthatsallihavetosayaboutthat



The weather forecast for Atlanta on Christmas day is 73 with an 80% chance of thunderstorms. I have cute winter outfits with boots and scarves FFS!!!! #fuckyoumothernature


Does anyone else think the Miss Universe debacle was completely staged by the management? I do. #youcantbethatdumb #everyonestalkinaboutit #ratings


I have a four day weekend coming up and hellz yeah... sleep, eat, Netflix, slob and drink with my favorite peoples. #thisismyliferightnow #icantwait #wintervacay #fact


Happy Christmas Eve Eve!

Linking up with the usual suspects Kathy and Nadine for confessions and Lolo and Lauren for #hashtags.

More Coffee Less Talky

#Hashtaghumpday @ Genuinely Lauren


Humpday Confessions & Hashtags

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Happy Christmas Eve Eve my friends! Today is my last workday for the week and as luck would have it it's going to be a busy one. How in the holy hell does that happen??? I have some weeks that things are relatively slow but it never fails... holiday weeks kick my ass! so this might be short and sweet but I felt that I really wanted to post something today because my mood is... well, I kinda feel like I am already on holiday. So here we go...

I think this is going to be one of the best Christmases I have had in a very long time. I have successfully spent the last 2 weeks shopping carefully and thoughtfully and I think I have managed to procure things for each kid that are going to make them so, so happy without breaking the bank! I'm feeling so accomplished. Like the best gifts they have had post divorce/single income family! If it wasn't for family and friends and their love & support none of  this would be possible. Oh and I work my ass off too.  #momoftheyear #ballinonabudget #popsometags


So I stepped on the scale the other day just because I have not in awhile and I have been a lil O.O.C. I though better to know now than be devastated on Jan. 4th when the #breakupchallenge2016 commences. So.... I gained a few lbs but not horrible. I deserve it. But it's been fun and now the party is almost over but not for a few more days!! #youknowwhatthatmeans #cookiesandeggnog #tonitewedrinkandeat


My kids are leaving on Christmas afternoon to go be with their Dad and I think, for once I won't be alone on Christmas or #thirdwheeling it. #waitwhaaaaaat #imightnotbealoserafterall #andthatsallihavetosayaboutthat



The weather forecast for Atlanta on Christmas day is 73 with an 80% chance of thunderstorms. I have cute winter outfits with boots and scarves FFS!!!! #fuckyoumothernature


Does anyone else think the Miss Universe debacle was completely staged by the management? I do. #youcantbethatdumb #everyonestalkinaboutit #ratings


I have a four day weekend coming up and hellz yeah... sleep, eat, Netflix, slob and drink with my favorite peoples. #thisismyliferightnow #icantwait #wintervacay #fact


Happy Christmas Eve Eve!

Linking up with the usual suspects Kathy and Nadine for confessions and Lolo and Lauren for #hashtags.

More Coffee Less Talky

#Hashtaghumpday @ Genuinely Lauren



Hey guess what?



This time, because everything is better with friends, Laura from Life With Lolo and I are going to Whole30 our asses off together. Aaaand... if you're reading this we are challenging you to join us. Hang on, keep your pants on. I know a Whole30 may not be for everyone so we will make it your choice. You pick what you want to breakup with for the next 30 days and beyond... shitty processed food, booze, sugar... whatever the vice is that you want to ditch now is your chance! Support is a huge factor in getting thru any big breakup... I KNOW!!! So let's do this! 

So, our Whole30 Round 2/Breakup Challenge kicks off on Jan. 4th, 2016. We would love for some of you to try it with us. It is life changing. If there is enough interest we may turn it into a link up and you can grab this lovely image and report back. Laura and I will be updating and recapping our weeks every Tuesday so you can see how we are doing, how we are feeling, what we are eating, how we are handling challenges, etc. Anyone in?

If you are so inclined here is what Whole30 means in a nut shell... 30 days:


Oh and you can't weigh yourself until it's over either. This is not about a number on the scale. 

I have been hemming and hawing for weeks over this and as much as I really don't want to, I'm going to do it. I guess I really do want to feel that feeling again... the Tiger Blood... more than I really don't want to give up beer, wine, pizza, bread and cheese for 30 days straight. Tiger Blood is what they call it, the Whole30 people, and it basically means you get to the point in the 30 where you hit your stride, it clicks, you feel amazing and you can start to tell that what you are doing is actually having a tangible affect on the way you feel every minute of the day. No exaggerating here.

Days 16-27: Tiger Blood. Goodbye cravings, hello Tiger Blood! This must be what everyone is talking about. You’ve hit the downhill slope of your Whole30 and life is beautiful. Your energy is through the roof, you’ve kicked the cravings, you’re experimenting with new, delicious food, and you’ve finally got the time to notice that your clothes fit better, your workouts are stronger, and you are generally more awesome.

That... it really does happen in just 16 days give or take. You can begin the process of undoing the bad choices pretty quickly.

I have been pretty off my game here lately. I've just basically gone from 90/10 to 80/20 and for the last month or 6 weeks 50/50. And I feel it, in every part of my being, my clothes, my energy levels, my sleep patterns, skin, attitude... you name it. Eating shit makes me feel like shit. I am ready to be done. I need to finish what I started in the first half of the year, or at least pick up where I left off and keep going.

If you want to do the Whole30 here are some of my thoughts and advice:

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare - Start cleaning out your pantry and stocking it with Whole30 friendly stuff now. This also eases the cost burden of buying a whole bunch of pantry items all at once.

Look at your calendar and see when your challenges will be popping up. Do you have a birthday, concert, vacation, business trip??? Think ahead and research what good options are available to you in advance. You will go in confident if you know what to expect and have a plan.

Weigh yourself and take your measurements the day before or the day you start and then hide that paper and don't think about it until you are done. At the end of my first Whole30 I was down 20 lbs. and 11 inches total. Big Surprise!!!

Get the Book - I highly recommend you buy the book  if you're like me... I like to have a "bible" with me for comfort I guess but... if you don't want to the website has every freaking tidbit of Whole30 info on it. It is the bomb and the online bible.

If you don't think you can do it you can. Yes, you have to give up alcohol, sugar, dairy, grains and legumes and not weigh yourself for 30 days. You will not die.

Please no angry comments about how it's dumb or too strict or not realistic. You do you, I'll do me.

Is it hard? Maybe, but so what. How many bodies do you have? And like Melissa Hartwig says in the book "Beating cancer is hard. Drinking your coffee black is not hard."

Avoid really difficult situations for the first 10 days or so if you can. Don't go to your favorite pizza joint with the fam and torture yourself. Just skip it if you are not sure if you can handle it.

Be prepared for people to tell you that it's crazy, not healthy, not realistic, not maintainable, too strict, weird and whatever else they can think of. You don't know until you know, and I am guessing you will know long before they ever will.

Be prepared to feel better than you ever have before.

What do you need to break up with? We hope that you pick something and join us for 30 days!

The Break Up Challenge - Whole 30 Round 2

Tuesday, December 22, 2015


Hey guess what?



This time, because everything is better with friends, Laura from Life With Lolo and I are going to Whole30 our asses off together. Aaaand... if you're reading this we are challenging you to join us. Hang on, keep your pants on. I know a Whole30 may not be for everyone so we will make it your choice. You pick what you want to breakup with for the next 30 days and beyond... shitty processed food, booze, sugar... whatever the vice is that you want to ditch now is your chance! Support is a huge factor in getting thru any big breakup... I KNOW!!! So let's do this! 

So, our Whole30 Round 2/Breakup Challenge kicks off on Jan. 4th, 2016. We would love for some of you to try it with us. It is life changing. If there is enough interest we may turn it into a link up and you can grab this lovely image and report back. Laura and I will be updating and recapping our weeks every Tuesday so you can see how we are doing, how we are feeling, what we are eating, how we are handling challenges, etc. Anyone in?

If you are so inclined here is what Whole30 means in a nut shell... 30 days:


Oh and you can't weigh yourself until it's over either. This is not about a number on the scale. 

I have been hemming and hawing for weeks over this and as much as I really don't want to, I'm going to do it. I guess I really do want to feel that feeling again... the Tiger Blood... more than I really don't want to give up beer, wine, pizza, bread and cheese for 30 days straight. Tiger Blood is what they call it, the Whole30 people, and it basically means you get to the point in the 30 where you hit your stride, it clicks, you feel amazing and you can start to tell that what you are doing is actually having a tangible affect on the way you feel every minute of the day. No exaggerating here.

Days 16-27: Tiger Blood. Goodbye cravings, hello Tiger Blood! This must be what everyone is talking about. You’ve hit the downhill slope of your Whole30 and life is beautiful. Your energy is through the roof, you’ve kicked the cravings, you’re experimenting with new, delicious food, and you’ve finally got the time to notice that your clothes fit better, your workouts are stronger, and you are generally more awesome.

That... it really does happen in just 16 days give or take. You can begin the process of undoing the bad choices pretty quickly.

I have been pretty off my game here lately. I've just basically gone from 90/10 to 80/20 and for the last month or 6 weeks 50/50. And I feel it, in every part of my being, my clothes, my energy levels, my sleep patterns, skin, attitude... you name it. Eating shit makes me feel like shit. I am ready to be done. I need to finish what I started in the first half of the year, or at least pick up where I left off and keep going.

If you want to do the Whole30 here are some of my thoughts and advice:

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare - Start cleaning out your pantry and stocking it with Whole30 friendly stuff now. This also eases the cost burden of buying a whole bunch of pantry items all at once.

Look at your calendar and see when your challenges will be popping up. Do you have a birthday, concert, vacation, business trip??? Think ahead and research what good options are available to you in advance. You will go in confident if you know what to expect and have a plan.

Weigh yourself and take your measurements the day before or the day you start and then hide that paper and don't think about it until you are done. At the end of my first Whole30 I was down 20 lbs. and 11 inches total. Big Surprise!!!

Get the Book - I highly recommend you buy the book  if you're like me... I like to have a "bible" with me for comfort I guess but... if you don't want to the website has every freaking tidbit of Whole30 info on it. It is the bomb and the online bible.

If you don't think you can do it you can. Yes, you have to give up alcohol, sugar, dairy, grains and legumes and not weigh yourself for 30 days. You will not die.

Please no angry comments about how it's dumb or too strict or not realistic. You do you, I'll do me.

Is it hard? Maybe, but so what. How many bodies do you have? And like Melissa Hartwig says in the book "Beating cancer is hard. Drinking your coffee black is not hard."

Avoid really difficult situations for the first 10 days or so if you can. Don't go to your favorite pizza joint with the fam and torture yourself. Just skip it if you are not sure if you can handle it.

Be prepared for people to tell you that it's crazy, not healthy, not realistic, not maintainable, too strict, weird and whatever else they can think of. You don't know until you know, and I am guessing you will know long before they ever will.

Be prepared to feel better than you ever have before.

What do you need to break up with? We hope that you pick something and join us for 30 days!

28 Festive Star Wars Christmas Cards:

Hallo.... I guess there is some kind of insanely popular movie coming out today so I figured I might as well put some Christmas Darth Vader up in here. I don't have a ticket yet but I'll see it eventually. I am actually thinking Xmas night after my kiddoes head off to Dad's. So what is up?? We are one week out people until the big day!!! Can you believe it? I am feeling remarkably good about the whole deal. I made the executive decision to sign up for Amazon Prime this week and literally buy myself some more shopping time. I have packages arriving daily and I am loving it!! I am actually shopping while blogging... who knew? Well... I am sure you did but whatever. Let's get to the weekly faves round up with Amanda shall we?



CHRISTMAS SONG

Steph reminded me of this the other day, how much I love this song even though it's a little dated. I remember it from when I was a kid and always thought it was romantic. Although it's about being alone technically. I love her voice and those outfits... groovy. Bring back the harem pants!!!!



TATTOO

Always thinking of ways to add to my rose shoulder piece. Love this. Chunking away a 5 dollar bill here and there for something new. Habit I got into after I quit smoking  since I used to burn up $5 a day on the regular. 

60 Awesome Arm Tattoo Designs | Cuded:

TV SHOW

Married At First Sight is back and I am already sucked in after 2 episodes. Anyone else? I personally don't see any of these couples making it. Sorry. Why are people doing this? I mean I know it's tough out there but is it for 15 seconds of fame? Real love? I just can't even imagine an arranged marriage. But it's great reality TV! Anyone watching?


HOLIDAY FOOD

Bacon Appetizer Crescents - I have been making these for years!!! Since before I had kids even, that's a long damn time. It's a never fail, always a big hit recipe! Many sources for this one but this pin had the best picture and made me straight up want to lick the screen. Looka here...

Bacon Appetizer Crescents great for tailgating, parties, holidays or just a snack:

WORKOUT

No time to work out during the holidays? I hear ya... this is one I always go back to. Torture by 10's... Easy peezy and done. No excuses. I bet you could even do it drunk. Not sure but maybe. Hey @workoutroutine I love your tattoos!!!!



Torture by 10's.:

WHOLE 30 RECIPE

Paleo Buffalo Chicken Pasta - So, someone is gearing up for a second Whole 30. Someone might be me or maybe possibly another blogger you all know and love. Maybe a whole bunch of people are getting ready to eat clean in a few weeks! I'm just putting it out there now, if I can eat Buffalo Chicken anything I'm in. Are you? Stay tuned!

Paleo Buffalo Chicken "Pasta":

DETOX

Ugh... it's almost that time of year again. If you are getting ready to get back on the wagon like yours truly, Teami Blends has a great Xmas deal going on right now!!! 

What does the Teami Holiday Detox Pack include? 

1) Teami 30 Day Detox Pack
2) Green Teami Tumbler
3) Teami Santa Infuser
4) Teami Tumbler Sock 

Package Value: $94.00 Your Price: $79.99! 

Enjoy all of your daily Teami essentials in the Christmas themed colors! And use code 

CWW17 for 17% off 


this or any Teami product until the 25th!
I really do love these products folks and they work!!


FUNNY STUFF

I am always looking for holiday decor short cuts. Winner.

grinchfully decorated.....I need to do this outside one year. Bet Shawn wouldn't complain about putting these lights up:

This guy truly gets the concept of the #TBT. Rock on.

This dad who totally gets Throwback Thursday.

Dads that save the day...



Another way cool Dad...

28 Dads Who Are Unquestionably Winning At Parenthood

The babies are killing it this week... wait for it...

28 Dads Who Are Unquestionably Winning At Parenthood


And look at Dave Grohl...how stinkin cute is he???

28 Dads Who Are Unquestionably Winning At Parenthood


Yeah well that's about it for me and it just hit me that this is likely my last Friday Favorites post of 2015. Nope... it actually is since next Friday is Christmas Eve and I will be having my big little family fancy dinner. And the next week is NYE and I am having all my closest drinking buddies over for adult fun. So I will say it's been a sweet ride of fabulous Fridays this year with all of you. Hopefully many more to come! Have a great weekend!

Cheers bitches!

Friday Favorites

Friday, December 18, 2015

28 Festive Star Wars Christmas Cards:

Hallo.... I guess there is some kind of insanely popular movie coming out today so I figured I might as well put some Christmas Darth Vader up in here. I don't have a ticket yet but I'll see it eventually. I am actually thinking Xmas night after my kiddoes head off to Dad's. So what is up?? We are one week out people until the big day!!! Can you believe it? I am feeling remarkably good about the whole deal. I made the executive decision to sign up for Amazon Prime this week and literally buy myself some more shopping time. I have packages arriving daily and I am loving it!! I am actually shopping while blogging... who knew? Well... I am sure you did but whatever. Let's get to the weekly faves round up with Amanda shall we?



CHRISTMAS SONG

Steph reminded me of this the other day, how much I love this song even though it's a little dated. I remember it from when I was a kid and always thought it was romantic. Although it's about being alone technically. I love her voice and those outfits... groovy. Bring back the harem pants!!!!



TATTOO

Always thinking of ways to add to my rose shoulder piece. Love this. Chunking away a 5 dollar bill here and there for something new. Habit I got into after I quit smoking  since I used to burn up $5 a day on the regular. 

60 Awesome Arm Tattoo Designs | Cuded:

TV SHOW

Married At First Sight is back and I am already sucked in after 2 episodes. Anyone else? I personally don't see any of these couples making it. Sorry. Why are people doing this? I mean I know it's tough out there but is it for 15 seconds of fame? Real love? I just can't even imagine an arranged marriage. But it's great reality TV! Anyone watching?


HOLIDAY FOOD

Bacon Appetizer Crescents - I have been making these for years!!! Since before I had kids even, that's a long damn time. It's a never fail, always a big hit recipe! Many sources for this one but this pin had the best picture and made me straight up want to lick the screen. Looka here...

Bacon Appetizer Crescents great for tailgating, parties, holidays or just a snack:

WORKOUT

No time to work out during the holidays? I hear ya... this is one I always go back to. Torture by 10's... Easy peezy and done. No excuses. I bet you could even do it drunk. Not sure but maybe. Hey @workoutroutine I love your tattoos!!!!



Torture by 10's.:

WHOLE 30 RECIPE

Paleo Buffalo Chicken Pasta - So, someone is gearing up for a second Whole 30. Someone might be me or maybe possibly another blogger you all know and love. Maybe a whole bunch of people are getting ready to eat clean in a few weeks! I'm just putting it out there now, if I can eat Buffalo Chicken anything I'm in. Are you? Stay tuned!

Paleo Buffalo Chicken "Pasta":

DETOX

Ugh... it's almost that time of year again. If you are getting ready to get back on the wagon like yours truly, Teami Blends has a great Xmas deal going on right now!!! 

What does the Teami Holiday Detox Pack include? 

1) Teami 30 Day Detox Pack
2) Green Teami Tumbler
3) Teami Santa Infuser
4) Teami Tumbler Sock 

Package Value: $94.00 Your Price: $79.99! 

Enjoy all of your daily Teami essentials in the Christmas themed colors! And use code 

CWW17 for 17% off 


this or any Teami product until the 25th!
I really do love these products folks and they work!!


FUNNY STUFF

I am always looking for holiday decor short cuts. Winner.

grinchfully decorated.....I need to do this outside one year. Bet Shawn wouldn't complain about putting these lights up:

This guy truly gets the concept of the #TBT. Rock on.

This dad who totally gets Throwback Thursday.

Dads that save the day...



Another way cool Dad...

28 Dads Who Are Unquestionably Winning At Parenthood

The babies are killing it this week... wait for it...

28 Dads Who Are Unquestionably Winning At Parenthood


And look at Dave Grohl...how stinkin cute is he???

28 Dads Who Are Unquestionably Winning At Parenthood


Yeah well that's about it for me and it just hit me that this is likely my last Friday Favorites post of 2015. Nope... it actually is since next Friday is Christmas Eve and I will be having my big little family fancy dinner. And the next week is NYE and I am having all my closest drinking buddies over for adult fun. So I will say it's been a sweet ride of fabulous Fridays this year with all of you. Hopefully many more to come! Have a great weekend!

Cheers bitches!

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