Love - Part 1

I have been thinking about love lately……a lot! Maybe it’s because I’m in my yearly reflective time. Sometime in the fourth quarter of the year, I’ll spend time reflecting on the year. So among other topics that I’ve been thinking about, I keep coming back to three different types of love. You have eros, or passionate love, phileo, or brotherly love, and agape, or unconditional love.

I’ve been thinking about all of these types, but wanted to write first about eros love. I’ve not been in a passionate love relationship for a while now. I’m patiently preparing for my great romance. In the meantime, I do find solace in romantic comedies. Here are some of my favorite quotes from some of my favorite romantic comedies. I know some of them are not realistic, but they bring a swoon, a chuckle and even a tear. Enjoy!!

When Harry Met Sally
Harry to Sally: I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.

Bridget Jones’s Diary
Mark: I like you, very much.
Bridget: Ah, apart from the smoking and the drinking, the vulgar mother and... ah, the verbal diarrhea.
Mark: No, I like you very much. Just as you are.

Diary of a Mad Black Woman
Helen: I love you!
Orlando: And how do you know that Helen?
Helen: I carry you in my spirit. I pray for you more than I pray for myself. And if you're away for more than an hour, I can't stop thinkin about you. And your smile, when you smile, my world is alright.

Boomerang
Angela to Marcus: What do you know about love? What could you possibly know about love. You know, I'm sick and tired of men using love as if it's some disease you just catch. Love should have brought your ass home last night.

West Side Story
Tony: [singing] There's a place for us, Somewhere a place for us.
Peace and quiet and open air wait for us, Somewhere.
Maria: There's a time for us, Some day a time for us.
Time together with time to spare, time to look, time to care, Someday.
Tony: Somewhere we'll find a new way of living.
Maria: We'll find a way of forgiving, Somewhere.

The Big Easy
Remy to Ann: If I can't have you, can I at least have my gator?

Remy to Ann: Just relax, darlin'. This is the Big Easy. Folks have a certain way o' doin' things down here.

13 Going On 30
Jenna: You want to know a secret?
Matt: Yeah.
Jenna: You're the sweetest guy I've ever met.

Moonstruck
Ronny: I love you.
Loretta: [slaps him twice] Snap out of it!

Shrek
Princess Fiona: No, it's destiny! You must know how it goes! The Knight rescues the Princess, and then they share true love's first kiss...
The Donkey: With Shrek? Whoa, whoa, whoa... you think, you think that Shrek is your true love?
Princess Fiona: Well, yes!
[Shrek and Donkey look at each other and burst into laughter]
Princess Fiona: What is so funny?
Shrek: Let's just say, I'm not your type, all right?

Say Anything
Diane: I love you.
Lloyd: What?
Diane: I love you. How many more times do I have to say it?
Lloyd: One more would be nice.
Diane: I love you... please. I love you.

Lloyd to Diane: One question: do you need... someone, or do you need me?... Forget it, I don't really care.

Sigh!

Kitten Heels

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

After Thanksgiving Exercise and Weight Loss

Now that the feasting has subsided for the next 20 or so days, it is possible to lose weight in between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

First, you have to go back to practicing a few things:

1) Exercise – at least three to four times a week. Cardio for at least 30 minutes a day and alternate days with strength training (not picking up a fork). Shopping and walking does count as exercise. Especially, marathon shopping sessions.

2) Portion control. I know that Mama’s and Grandmama’s food was good this past week. I was an eager participant, but I did swap out candied sweet potatoes for a baked sweet potato. For dessert, one piece of caramel pound cake over all the other desserts.

3) Journaling – this kept me honest during the weekend and I didn’t gain any weight. Yes, it was a struggle, but well worth the effort. Little tweaks go a long way.

4) Planning – really plan out your strategy for eating and exercising, help keep you honest. I really set a reminder in my Outlook Calendar for exercise and eating. It helps prevent mindless eating and forces me to go for that walk, go to the gym, etc.

5) Visualize – see yourself Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve in that slinky outfit and most importantly, not having packed on the dreaded holiday 20 pounds....

I wish everyone a lovely Holiday Season. If you have any good suggestions on keeping the weight off during the holidays, let me know.

Peace and Love,

Sandals

Remember The True Meaning of the Season

As the hustle and bustle of the season takes hold, let's try and remember to help those that are less fortunate than ourselves!!

The Homeless © By Valerie Bellefleur

Twas the night before Christmas
He sat near the street
With his dog in a blanket
Warming his feet

The sidewalk was cold
His windbreaker thin
He longed for a scarf
To cover his chin

He wished that his pants
Were free of the holes
And dreamed of new shoes
Without paper soles

He played his violin
With a melancholy ring
Like the sound of an angel
Which made the heart sing

Where once he had played
To whomever he choose
But his life took a turn
When he fell for the booze

The snowflakes fell softly
And peppered his hair
As he faintly heard carols
In the soft evening air

He counted his money
And wrapped up the dog
Shouldered his knapsack
And walked through the fog

Tomorrow was Christmas
To him one more day
To walk in the streets
With his violin to play

Stiletto
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

PPP's Tip of the Week

So did you over eat on Thanksgiving....are you still feeling the after math? This might help.......

Seven herbs for indigestion By Melissa Breyer courtesy of Yahoo!Green

Common causes for indigestion include overeating, eating too quickly, fatty or greasy foods, too much caffeine, too much alcohol, too much chocolate, nervousness, and emotional trauma. Translation: The holidays.

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a term used to describe one or more symptoms including a feeling of fullness during a meal, uncomfortable fullness after a meal, and burning or pain in the upper abdomen; it may cause bloating, belching, and nausea. One thing is certain, it's no fun!

If that last wafer-thin mint has you cowering on the couch, you may want to try one of these natural aids for indigestion. Herbs have been used for a millennium to treat any matter of ailments, and indigestion seems to be one woe that is well-suited for natural remedies.

Fennel / Fennel Seed
There is a reason Indian restaurants serve the fennel seed mix, Mukhwas, after dinner. Fennel seed has long been used to help fight gas, cramps, and acid indigestion, and to help ease spasms in the intestinal tract.

Fennel has a long history of use in both food and medicine. Traditionally, it is said to act as a carminative, which means that it helps the body expel gas and sooth indigestion. Fennel is also a common ingredient in "gripe water," a traditional (and very alcoholic, by the way) preparation used for treating infant colic.

Fennel leaves can be used to make tea. NYU Langone Medical Center says that a typical dose of fennel is 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons of seeds per day.

Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and has been a favorite since the Middle Ages for reducing stress and anxiety, abetting sleep, sparking appetite, and easing indigestion.

These days, lemon balm is commonly mixed with other calming herbs to help promote relaxation. Evidence suggests that lemon balm, in combination with other herbs, may help treat indigestion -- although just soothing the stress alone can sometimes help with dyspepsia.

To reduce indigestion, flatulence, or bloating, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends:
Capsules: Take 300 - 500 mg dried lemon balm, 3 times daily or as needed.
Tea: 1.5 - 4.5 grams (1/4 - 1 teaspoonful) of dried lemon balm herb in hot water. Steep and drink up to 4 times daily.
Tincture: 2 - 3 ml (40 - 90 drops), 3 times daily

Turmeric
Turmeric is the little minx of the spice drawer -- super bright, spicy, and boasting a broad array of health claims. You may know it as the main spice in curry and the one which imparts that intense golden glow, but turmeric is also used for health remedies.

In traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric has been used to aid digestion and liver function, relieve arthritis pain, and regulate menstruation. It has also traditionally been used for heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea, intestinal gas, and stomach bloating.

According to the NYU Langone Medical Center, turmeric's superpower comes in the form of the substance, curcumin, that, among other properties, may stimulate gallbladder contractions. One double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed that 87% percent of the curcumin group experienced full or partial symptom relief from dyspepsia as compared to 53% of the placebo group.

The National Institutes of Health recommends a dosage of 500 mg of turmeric four times daily for dyspepsia.

Ginger
Ginger has long been used as a medicine in Asian, Indian, and Arabic herbal traditions. In China, ginger has been used to aid all types of digestion disorders for more than 2,000 years. Fast-forward to modern medicine, and health care professionals still commonly recommend ginger to help prevent or treat nausea and vomiting. It is also used as a digestive aid for mild stomach upset.

Germany's Commission E has approved ginger as a treatment for indigestion and motion sickness. Curiously, while most anti-nausea drugs work on the brain and the inner ear, ginger seems to act directly on the stomach.

For most purposes, the standard dosage of powdered ginger is 1 to 4 g daily, divided into 2 to 4 doses per day. (To prevent motion sickness, you should aim to begin treatment 1 or 2 days before the trip and continue it throughout the period of travel.)

Artichoke Leaf
If you have ever wondered what in the world were those Italians thinking when they invented the artichoke aperitif liqueur, Cynar, here's you answer. In traditional European medicine, the leaves of the artichoke plant (not the leaves of the bud, which is the part that we eat) were used as a diuretic to stimulate the kidneys and as well as the flow of bile from the liver and gallbladder; which plays a starring role in digestion.

Over the past century, much research has been done looking into the traditional medicinal uses of the artichoke plant; conclusions suggest that the plant does indeed stimulate the kidney and gallbladder. In the mid-20th century, Italian scientists isolated a compound from artichoke leaf called cynarin, which appeared to duplicate many of the effects of whole artichoke. Salute!

In 2003, a large study evaluated artichoke leaf as a treatment for dyspepsia; artichoke leaf extract proved significantly more effective than placebo for alleviating symptoms of functional dyspepsia. Germany's Commission E has authorized the use of artichoke leaf use for "dyspeptic problems" -- they recommend 6 grams of the dried herb or its equivalent per day, usually divided into 3 doses. Artichoke leaf extracts should be taken according to label instructions.

Peppermint
Peppermint is often used to soothe an upset stomach or to aid in digestion. Because of its subtle numbing effect, it has been used to treat everything from headaches, skin irritations, and anxiety to nausea, diarrhea, menstrual cramps, and flatulence.

Peppermint oil seems to be helpful for a variety of conditions that involve spasm of the intestinal tract. Most studies have involved irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), for which peppermint oil has shown considerable promise.

Peppermint relaxes the muscles that struggle with digestive gas and improve the flow of bile, which the body uses to digest fats. In studies on using peppermint to treat IBS, there seems to be a trend indicating mild effectiveness in the reduction of some symptoms, especially flatulence and abdominal pain and distension. However, if your symptoms of indigestion are related to a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, peppermint should not be used.

Cayenne
OK, this one is confusing: Doesn't spicy food cause stomach aches? According to the folks at NYU, evidence suggests that oral use of cayenne can reduce the pain of dyspepsia! Counter-intuitive, at best, but apparently hot peppers don't actually inflame the tissues they contact; in fact, hot peppers aren't even harmful for ulcers. Rather, they merely produce sensations similar to those caused by actual damage.

Oral use of capsaicin seems to reduce discomfort in the stomach. In a double-blind study, individuals with dyspepsia were given either 2.5 g daily of red pepper powder (divided up and taken prior to meals) or placebo for 5 weeks. By the third week of treatment, individuals taking red pepper were experiencing significant improvements in pain, bloating, and nausea as compared to placebo, and these relative improvements lasted through the end of the study.

For treatment of dyspepsia, cayenne may be taken at a dosage of 0.5 to 1.0 g three times daily (prior to meals).

Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

The Truth - Author Unknown

I received this email the other day and wanted to share because many of the points that are suggested are the very reason that we started this blog.

The Truth - Author Unknown

I am sending this out to you not because I know you personally or that we are the closest or best of friends but simply because you and I share a similarity. We are women of color. But the things that bond us are so much deeper than that, however it all starts there.

When I first heard of the movie "For Colored Girls" I got so excited. I had the idea of getting as many women together that I could think of to go see this movie. I had visions of group discussions and moments shared with one another that would lead to healing and growth, I guess I kind of imagined a Women's Empowerment Conference type of setting.

Well after I shared my idea with a few women, reality set in and I realized that so many of us wouldn't be willing to participate for various reasons: You don't like me, you don't care for somebody I might invite, you only hang out with certain people, you don't understand the big deal about Tyler Perry making yet another movie about black people and our issues for all the world to see, you don't like crowds, so n so is too ghetto, such and such is too uppity etc... It has ALWAYS amazed me that we as black women are each others biggest critics. We are the quickest to bring each other down, find each others faults and nit pick at a sister until she has nothing left, nothing left to give and then we step over her and call her worthless. We take the prettiest women and tear them down for thinking "they are cute" but turn around and dog the average sista because "she know she should take better care of herself than that - can't believe she got a man!" We call strong women female dogs and accuse weaker women of riding somebody else's coat tails. We tell a big sista to put down her burger and turn around and criticize a skinny woman for not picking one up. We ride the loud mouth woman for "talking too darn much" and likewise torment the quiet woman for "Being too quiet and needing to take up for herself" Sad part is we don't discriminate, we talk about everybody!!!

I've watched women dog out everybody from Oprah for catering to white people and Halle Berry for not being able to keep a man to young Willow Smith for acting too darn grown in her recent video. All of these females are successful and there is something about each one of them to be proud of but a lot of us can't seem to see that. I have to wonder since we all share a common thread (whether we want to admit it or not) is there something about ourselves that we don't like, what has happened to us that we cannot seem to get along. Why is that we fight amongst ourselves, backstab & steal each others men(only to find out we should have left him where we found him). We cannot seem to be unified to support and stick up for one another. Everybody seems to be out for themselves while other groups unite against us but nobody else has to bring us down because we trample on the spirits of each other daily.

Even if you live in a mini mansion, drive a luxury car, have good credit, rich handsome husband etc, this does not mean that should look down your nose at the woman with 4 kids, no husband, living in income based housing struggling to keep her lights on. We ALWAYS think the grass is greener on the other side, I had a woman who's child father is MIA tell me that I should never complain because I receive a decent amount of child support and I laughed and let her know that I would gladly give every dime back if he would come relieve some of this overwhelming pressure of feeling inadequate as a parent. If I could get just one full night of sleep or not always be on the verge of losing my job because I'm the one that has to call off or leave work for one reason or another to accommodate my child - yeah he could DEFINITELY have his money if I could have some peace! Money alone doesn't make you happy (not true happiness), good credit doesn't keep you satisfied, beauty doesn't make you any less insecure, fame doesn't make you less vulnerable or cause you to be a good judge of character and being stuck up and mean doesn't keep you warm at night or prevent you from being lonely.

You don't know how the sista sitting right next to could have carefully put on her make up this morning to hide the beating from last night. The teacher you handed your child over to this morning could have sent her children off to school from a dark house with empty bellies. The teller you just got rude with at the bank could know that today is her last day on her job and have no idea how she is going to survive past next weekend. The sista at the office that appears so busy could be typing her goodbyes to all the people that she loves because she plans to blow her brains out tonight after she tucks her babies into bed. The woman you pass in the hallway could be on her way to have an abortion because she fears what others might think or how the woman that sent you this e-mail may drink an over abundance of alcohol every night to mask the nightmares of an abusive childhood.

Ladies we HAVE TO DO BETTER!!! I'm not suggesting that we all like each other and be phony, But I am asking that we all try to respect each other. You HAVE NO IDEA what the next woman is going through, you don't know what past or current hurt and pains have shaped her into who she is today. We spend so much time trying to be as strong and hard as we are expected to be that we end up cracking from the inside out piece by piece. If we would spend 1/3 of the time we spend tearing each other down to build someone up, encourage someone, show someone some love, we could truly make a difference and save someone's life. PLEASE don't be the straw that breaks another woman's back. Believe me when I tell you that there is a woman out there that needs your smile, your hug, your support, your prayer.

I hope that you read this and get something out of it other than a laugh and that you pass this on to as many women as you can to let someone know that you believe they are somebody special and that if need be you are available to listen. Nothing bad is going to happen if you don't forward this e-mail but I'd like to think that something positive will happen if you choose to pass it along. May favor be extended to each and everyone of your lives, keep your head up and know that someone somewhere cares!!!

Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Pumps, Purses & Positivity is wishing everyone a Happy, safe & blessed Thanksgiving!!

Weight Loss Wednesday

Thanksgiving
Article By: Leslie Fink, MS, RD - courtesy of Weight Watchers.com

For some of us, Thanksgiving is a simple turkey dinner and a time to give thanks. But for many, it's an eating orgy and a six-week countdown to the same lose-weight-and-get-back-in-shape New Year's resolution that we make year after year…after year.

Break the cycle this holiday season. Enjoy Thanksgiving but don't overindulge; head into the New Year feeling confident, slimmer and in control.

Make classic recipes light
If you're hosting dinner or bringing a dish to someone else's house, consider trimming the fat from your recipes. For instance:

•Make your mashed potatoes creamy with naturally low-fat buttermilk instead of butter
•Pour your turkey pan drippings into a large glass bowl (or you can use a gravy/fat separator) and allow it to sit for 5 minutes so you can skim off a layer of fat. Use some of the fat in your gravy, not all
•Slim down your pie by making a light cookie crumb layer instead of a traditional pie crust
•Leave off the top (or bottom) crust instead of using both. Or forget all about the crusts and bake your pie filling in small ramekins for mini soufflés instead
•Use whole-wheat bread, not white, for stuffing to increase the fiber not to mention upping its vitamin and mineral profile

Know your portions
To help you size up your servings, come armed with some visuals:

•1 cup of mashed potatoes is about the size of a tennis ball or your fist
•3 ounces of turkey equals a computer mouse or a checkbook
•1/2 cup of green bean casserole fits into a small cupcake wrapper or an ice cream scoop
•1/4 cup of gravy equals 4 tablespoons; measure out some water in your gravy ladle to see how many tablespoons one full ladle holds

Go for the two-for-one side dish special
Hopefully not all the vegetables are drenched in butter. Opt for doubling up on your vegetable side dishes for each starch-based one that you take (and no, potatoes are not a vegetable in this case).

Plan on eating leftovers
There are usually more than enough side dishes for a few meals. Whatever you don't taste today, you can taste tomorrow.

Seek satisfaction
Think about what's worth eating and what's not. You can make yourself a baked sweet potato anytime, but your Aunt's sweet potato pie is a once-a-year specialty.

Fend off food-pushing relatives
Don't eat something just because your mom wants you to. Compliment her outfit, ask for a recipe, enquire about an old friend — anything to change the topic from why you didn't touch both her pecan pie and pumpkin cheesecake.

The bottom line is please enjoy your Thanksgiving but try not to go overboard. When you are in control you will find that you will enjoy with no regrets!!

Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Hobo's Poem of the Day

A Strong Woman vs. A Woman of Strength



A strong woman
works out every day to keep her body in shape...
but


A woman of strength
kneels in prayer to keep her soul in shape...

A strong woman
isn't afraid of anything...
of Strength
but

A woman of strength
shows courage in the midst of her fear...

A strong woman
won't let anyone get the best of her...
but

A woman of strength
gives the best of her to everyone...

A strong woman
makes mistakes and avoids the same in the future...

A woman of strength
realizes life's mistakes can also be God's blessings

and capitalizes on them...

A strong woman
walks sure footedly...
but

A woman of strength
knows God will catch her when she falls...

A strong woman
wears the look of confidence on her face...
but

A woman of strength
wears grace...

A strong woman
has faith that she is strong enough for the journey...
but

A woman of strength
has faith that it is in the journey that she will become strong...


(Poem by Lavida Harris)

The Other Silent Killer

I have a friend that shared a story with me about a week ago, and I found it heart breaking. It was about a friend of his that seemed to be a "find" in today's society. This young lady seemed to have everything going for her. Her career was going well, she was a very active member of her sorority, fairly young with no baggage (kids or ex-husband), pretty and smart.

The next thing I will share about her surprised him and me as he told me the story. With all that going for her this young lady purposely took her own life about a week ago. When she came home the prior evening she had already made up her mind what she was going to do because that night she left her cell phone in her car. I share this for a couple of reasons. The first is that depression is alive and well even in the black communities. The second reason I decided to share this was in the hope that someone out there may need to hear what I am about to say.

I know that times are stressful for all right now, especially with the holidays approaching people reflect on their choices made in life, their surroundings and even their fears. I ask that if you are reading this and too are struggling with depression please seek help. You can't heal until you release. Please find someone that can hear you and reach out in your time of need. Many of us internalize things until we can't take it much more. I know because I too believe in self-checking. We have to have an outlet or someone who can listen to us and not judge.

Reach out to a stranger. Seek counseling where you can speak with someone who doesn't know you from “Adam” and will lend a non judgmental ear. Try not to be alone during the holidays. There are many organization and people who need additional help during this time of year. It does no good to be alone with self-pity. Provide some volunteer services for the less fortunate. You will be amazed how good it makes you feel and how purposeful your life can feel serving others.

Most of all seek a higher guidance. The most High is always listening; we just need to talk to him. The last thing is I wish my condolences to her family and may God Bless her. The people we leave behind suffer just as much if not more than the one who takes their life.

Much Love

Chanel

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

You Make Me Smile

This is the cool down song that plays after my step class. I smile as soon as I hear it because I know it means that I've made it through another vigorous workout but also because I really think it's a great song. Take a listen and let me know if you agree....




Keep Smiling!!
Stiletto,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

PPP's Tip of the Week

Christmas Shopping Tips - courtesy of Christmas Celebrations

'Tis the season to fight the crowds and do your Christmas shopping. If you're like most people, just the thought of this will probably make you cringe in fear. If you're not looking forward to hectic holiday shopping, relax, here are some practical tips to help you avoid common hassles.

Don't Wait Until the Last Minute

Are you one of those people who adds to your own stress level by doing last minute Christmas shopping? Do you know better, but it seems to happen anyway?

Look at it this way... When you shop on Christmas Eve you're going to have to fight the crowds, choose from limited merchandise, and wait in long lines. Buy your gifts little by little, beginning in November, and you can avoid last-minute shopping fiascos.

Shop in Off-Peak Hours

Most stores aren't very busy early in the morning or late at night. Shop at slow times and you can forgo the crowds and long lines. Better yet, find some stores that are open 24 hours.

My brother does his Christmas shopping into the wee hours of the night. He can often get most of his shopping done in a single trip because the aisles aren't blocked and there's much less stress involved.

Take a List

Start your Christmas list early in the season. When the holidays near, keep a pen and paper handy to write down all of your gift ideas. Always take that checklist with you when you go shopping This way, you'll know exactly what you need to buy and you'll be less likely to forget anything.

Set a Budget

Are you still paying for Christmas gifts in January and February? Work out a budget and stick to it. Buy only affordable gifts and you'll find it much easier to pay off your holiday credit card debt.

Look for Sales

Watch ads and Black Friday ads and be on the lookout for in-store holiday sales. You can save a pretty good chunk of money because almost anything you may want to buy eventually goes on sale. Still, there are some things that won't and you'll need to decide whether to get it while it's available. Sometimes, you have to pay more for things you really want.

If you're up to it, consider taking advantage of "After Christmas Sales" to get wrapping supplies and gifts for next year. You'll have to put up with the crowds, but it may be worth the money you'll be saving and the satisfying feeling it gives.

Happy Shopping!

Pumps, Purses & Positivity

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Living Social

It's awesome and if you haven't heard about it you gotta try it!! So, are you looking for great deals in your city? Well you need to log on to LivingSocial.com because there you will find deals that are 50% - 90% off. Things like spa treatments, restaurants, dance classes, plays.....you name it you got it. Check it out, sign up, you will get an email everyday that tells you the deal of the day. If you are not interested delete it. But....I guarantee there will be a deal that you like and you will purchase and save $$$$!

What’s the big deal?
Living Social offers one fantastic deal every day with discounts of up to 90% at local restaurants, bars, spas, theaters, and more.

The Daily Deal
Each day, we send you one deeply discounted deal to use at local businesses. Sign up to get our daily email.

Click to Buy
Purchase our daily deals with one easy click. You will receive a link to your voucher the next business day. It's that simple!

Share for a Free Deal
After you buy the deal, you'll get a unique link to share. If three people buy the deal using your link, then your deal is free.



Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

If I Had Super Powers - Part 1

As I sat trying earnestly to think of something positive to write about, I kept coming up empty. I ran over in my mind what was going on in my life right now, but I really didn’t feel like going there. I kept coming up with topics that I’ve written about already (i.e. weight-loss, conferences, recommendations) or emotionally charged topics (i.e. a letter to my deceased mother). I started looking around online for blog topics and one caught my eye, “If I Had a Super Power”. I thought yeah, that would be sweet. Then I decided to blog about having super powers, why settle for just one? I’d be able to get so much done. :) So here they are, some super powers that I desire and the things I’d do with them:

• FLYING – I’d fly EVERYWHERE. To take out the trash, pick up dinner, visit relatives, visit foreign lands. No traffic jams, no parking fees, it would be great!

• INVISIBILITY – I’d smack every person having a loud and/or annoying cell phone conversation. Yeah, I know that’s not nice, I guess I’d just hang up the call, but the smacking would be so satisfying!

• SUPER SPEED VISION – I would read ALL of the books that I bought this year (remember all those book sales I wrote about….) in like a weekend. I have bags and bags from the sales and also from conferences and library trips!

• SUPER STRENGTH – I’d haul out all of the clutter in the closets and in storage in one fell swoop! And then fly it to the trash of course!

That’s all for now, stay tuned for part 2.

Kitten Heels

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Weight Loss Wednesday

Dieter's Prayer

Lord, my soul is ripped with riot
incited by my wicked diet.
"We are what we eat," said a wise old man!
And, Lord, if that's true, I'm a garbage can !

I want to rise on Judgment Day, that's plain,
But, at my present weight, I'll need a crane.
So grant me strength, that I may not fall
Into the clutches of cholesterol !

At margarine I'll never mutter
For the road to hell is paved with butter.
And cream is cursed, and cake is awful,
And Satan lurks in every waffle !

Give me this day my daily slice,
But cut it thin and toast it twice.
I beg upon my dimpled knees,
Deliver me from jujubes please !

And when my days of dieting are done,
And my war with Snickers bars is won,
Let me stand with the heavenly throng,
In a shining robe...size seven, long !

I can do it, Lord, if You'll show to me,
The virtues of lettuce and celery.
Teach me the evil of mayonnaise...
Of pasta a la Milanaise, potatoes a la Lyonnaise...
And crisp-fried chicken from the south ...
Lord, if you love me... shut my mouth !

- Author Unknown

Pumps, Purses & Positivity,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Kitten Heels Recommends......

A little over a week ago, I had the pleasure to hear a dynamic speaker at the Joseph Center’s 2010 Economic Empowerment Summit. The speaker was Carla Harris. She is a successful Wall Street executive and also an accomplished gospel singer. Ms. Harris’ style was direct and funny, yet forceful and caused you to hang on every word. As a woman who has at times stumbled in the workplace, I welcomed her anecdotes and advice. In the book Expect to Win: Proven Strategies for Success from a Wall Street Vet, she has outlined ten strategies and ends each chapter with “pearls”. The attendees at the conference were blessed to hear about five of the strategies. One of my favorites was “Perception Is the Co-pilot to Reality”. Carla explained how you can train people to think about you the way you want them to think. Another favorite was “Authenticity”. I loved how she exclaimed that you are your own competitive advantage and when you bring that to the table, people will invest. The book covers eight more strategies. Another plus for the conference attendees, was Carla’s graciousness to answer questions on topics such as interviewing, deciding which business to go into and how to get a book published.

Here’s the Synopsis:
One of Wall Street's most powerful and lauded women shares her strategies for long-term success in any career

While climbing the corporate ladder, Carla Harris sought career advice from her mentors and superiors but found some of the counsel too nonspecific. As Carla's career advanced, she discovered the key survival tools to business success and vowed that when she reached senior management and people came to her for advice she would provide them with specific, play-by-play answers about what they needed to do to fulfill their career potential.

Each chapter in Expect to Win includes Carla's "pearls"— lessons Harris has acquired during her twenty years of working on Wall Street that can help contribute to career success by aiding readers in navigating the day-to-day complexities and challenges of the workplace.

Carla Harris is a Wall Street veteran. She executed the IPOs for UPS, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, and Redback, as well as the $3.2 billion common stock transaction for Immunex, one of the largest biotech common stock offerings in U.S. history. Expect to Win is a must-read for anyone seeking battle-tested tools to triumph over common career challenges and to achieve maximum success in any field.

I’m looking forward to reading about Carla’s missteps and triumphs and putting them into practice in my professional life.

Kitten Heels

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Mississippi Goddam: Free the Scott Sisters

by Dr. Pamela D. Reed November 14, 2010

Sharing for those of you that have not heard about the Scott sisters. Unjust is still alive and well.

Nina Simone called it in 1964 with her civil rights anthem. Apparently, not much has changed since. Today, Jamie and Gladys Scott sit in a Mississippi prison, sentenced to double consecutive life sentences for a crime they have denied committing. Neither had a previous criminal record.

And what was the alleged crime? Robbery. Was it a violent offense? No. How much was taken? Eleven dollars. When and where did this happen? In 1993, outside Forest, Miss.

On what basis were they convicted? Two of the three teenagers who committed the robbery testified that the sisters were involved in the robbery, claiming that they lured the two men to the scene, where they were robbed, after which the women left with the robbery victims. The two teens, who the Scotts knew beforehand, copped a plea — implicating the Scotts — and were released after two years in prison.

The two sisters, 21 and 19 at the time of the incident, have been in the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility for 16 years. In addition to losing her vision, 38 year-old Jamie has suffered renal failure and receives dialysis three times weekly. All requests to have her moved to a private hospital for life-sparing treatment have allegedly been denied. Reportedly, the state’s Department of Corrections will not allow for compatibility testing for a kidney transplant, without which Jamie Scott will die.

This case has attracted national attention. Blogs and Facebook pages have sprung up lobbying for their release. New York Times columnist Bob Herbert has written two columns on the case.

The NAACP made a formal appeal to Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour for a pardon or commutation. As well, the civil rights organization has launched a petition urging Barbour to act swiftly and judiciously. The petition also points out the sentencing judge’s history of racial impartiality.

“The presiding judge in their trial, Judge Marcus Gordon, has a history of racially biased rulings, including granting bail to the KKK murderer of the three civil rights workers: Chaney, Goodman and Schwerner,” states the petition.

I tell you, this thing has Jim Crow written all over it!

That is why there should be millions of signatures demanding the release of the Scott sisters. The mainstream media should put Barbour on blast and he should be subjected to questions about the Scott sisters during all of his media appearances.



To build a critical mass, all civil rights organizations should take to the streets, marching and sitting-in, as they did in the ’60s. Barbour should not be able to go anywhere without seeing picketers.

Along with the NAACP, Rainbow/PUSH is also involved.

The National Action Network is another story. To date, the Reverend Al Sharpton’s organization has not issued any statements or taken any action on behalf of the Scott sisters. This is surprising because this seems like a case tailor-made for Sharpton, with his mega bully pulpit. Certainly, it would have been for the pre-Obama Sharpton.

And speaking of President Barack Obama, he and his Justice Department should become involved in this case. After all, it is within the president’s powers to grant pardons.

As Herbert writes in his “So Utterly Inhumane” column, “This is a case that should be repugnant to anyone with the slightest interest in justice.”

It seems safe to assume that Barbour is not one of these people. I guess he is busy exploring his options regarding a presidential bid in 2012.

When asked about his presidential ambitions after the GOP’s sweeping wins in the midterm elections, Barbour said this on CNN: “I'm gonna sit down after tomorrow and see if there's anything to think about. But I don't feel any time pressure over the next few weeks or months."

Apparently, Barbour is not feeling any “time pressure” about the life of Jamie Scott or any shame about the draconian nature of consecutive life sentences in this case. This in spite of the fact that in 2008, according to several media reports, Barbour pardoned five brutal killers, in five separate cases. Yet he allows these two women to continue to sit in prison over $11?This is why it is so important that people who believe in freedom and equal treatment under the law sign the petition calling for Barbour to act ... or the Justice Department ... or Obama. Somebody needs to right this wrong.

In the words of Nina Simone, “Just try to do your very best, stand up be counted with all the rest, for everybody knows about Mississippi Goddam ...

Footnote to the story: Since this has all happened the man then a teenager that implicated the ladies came back and recanted his story saying that the ladies had no part in the robbery but yet they still sit behind bars.

Black Girls Rock!

BET premiered the Black Girls Rock! awards show and it was AWESOME!!! Nia Long hosted and I thought it was one of the best award shows that I have seen in a very long time.
Black Girls Rock! was created by Beverly Bond to empower and highlight the accomplishments of not only African American women but all women of color. If you get an opportunity to check this out please do because it's worth it!

Stiletto,

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

PPP's Tip of the Week

Credit reporting 101 - courtesy of True Credit by TransUnion

Let's take on the fundamentals of the credit reporting system. From the big three credit bureaus, TransUnion, Equifax and Experian, to your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, this article will help you navigate the credit report maze.

The credit reporting agencies - TransUnion, Equifax and Experian (formerly TRW) are the three national credit reporting agencies that keep records on consumers. The reporting agencies work with lenders, creditors, insurers and employers to update and distribute your information to the appropriate institutions. Here's an example of how the system works:

1. When you apply for a new credit card the creditor requests a copy of your financial history from the reporting agencies. This causes a "hard inquiry" to be recorded on your credit report.

2. The creditor uses your credit reports and scores along with income and debt information to determine what rates to offer.

3. You start to use the new credit card and the creditor reports your activities to the credit reporting agencies about every 30 days.

4. The credit reporting agencies update your credit report as they receive new information from creditors or lenders.

5. Your credit profile changes based on your financial activity. The next time you apply for a credit card or loan, the process repeats.

Your credit report - Your credit report is divided into six main sections: consumer information (address, birthday and employment), consumer statement, account histories, public records, inquiries and creditor contacts. When you open a new account, miss a payment or move, these sections are updated with new information. Old negative records will stay on your credit report for 7-10 years. Positive records can remain on your credit report longer. Not all creditors report to all three agencies and the agencies obtain their data independently so your reports from TransUnion, Equifax and Experian could be substantially different from each other. That's why it's important to check your three credit reports every 6-12 months to ensure that the information is accurate and up-to-date.

Correcting inaccuracies - Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, consumers are protected from having inaccurate information on their credit reports. If you find an inaccurate record on your report, try contacting the creditor or lender associated with the mark first. These companies can usually correct the mistake and send an update to the credit reporting agencies. If you can't make progress this way, you can also dispute the inaccuracy directly with the credit reporting agencies.

Working the system - Managing your credit and maintaining a good credit history can lead to better rates on major purchases. We recommend that you check your credit reports every 6-12 months or at least 3 months before a major purchase in order to guard against damaging inaccuracies and identity theft. Routine check-ups along with paying your bills on time, keeping your credit card balances below 35% of their limits and correcting any negative inaccuracies will help you maintain a healthy credit profile.

Pumps, Purses & Positivity

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Manage Blood Pressure

Hypertension is the single most significant risk factor for heart disease. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can injure or kill you. It's sometimes called "the silent killer" because it has no symptoms. One in three adults has high blood pressure, yet, about 21% don’t even know they have it. Of those with high blood pressure, 69% are receiving treatment, yet, only 45% have their blood pressure controlled.

What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a widely misunderstood medical condition.

The blood running through your arteries flows with too much force and puts pressure on your arteries, stretching them past their healthy limit and causing microscopic tears. Our body then kicks into injury-healing mode to repair these tears with scar tissue. But unfortunately, the scar tissue traps plaque and white blood cells which can form into blockages, blood clots, and hardened, weakened arteries.

Why High Blood Pressure Matters?
High blood pressure is the single most significant risk factor for heart disease. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can injure or kill you. It's sometimes called "the silent killer" because it has no symptoms.

Blockages and blood clots mean less blood can get to our vital organs, and without blood, the tissue dies. That’s why high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and even heart failure.

By keeping your blood pressure in the healthy range, you are:

1. Reducing your risk of your vascular walls becoming overstretched and injured,
2. Reducing your risk of your heart having to pump harder to compensate for blockages,
3. Protecting your entire body so that your tissue receives regular supplies of blood that is rich in the oxygen it needs.

What Influences High Blood Pressure and the Risk for Stroke?
By keeping your blood pressure in the healthy range, you are: Reducing your risk of your vascular walls becoming overstretched and injured, reducing your risk of your heart having to pump harder to compensate for blockages, protecting your entire body so that your tissue receives regular supplies of blood that is rich in the oxygen it needs.

American Heart Association Guidelines
While there is no cure, high blood pressure is manageable.
 Even if your blood pressure is normal (less than 120 mm Hg systolic AND less than 80 mm Hg diastolic) and your goal is prevention only, the lifestyle modifications provide a prescription for healthy living. These changes may reduce your blood pressure without the use of prescription medications: eating a heart-healthy diet, which may include reducing salt; enjoying regular physical activity; maintaining a healthy weight; managing stress; limiting alcohol; avoiding tobacco smoke.

This article is courtesy of the American Heart Association

Pumps, Purses & Positivity

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

The Serenity Prayer

God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.

--Reinhold Niebuhr

Sandals,
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Weight Loss Wednesday

5 Common Weight Loss Myths courtesy of the weightlosstipssite.com

Just like counterfeit products, at some point in our battle against obesity, we also encounter several weight loss blunders–misleading statements that may have the potential to ruin your efforts to shed pounds and do the exact opposite that you have been dreading of.

To bring light into this matter, here are the top 5 weight loss myths you should never believe again.

1. Cardio burns more fat than strength training

Any physical activity burns calories. However, the quantity consumed varies on the type of exercise you are performing.

Yes, aerobic exercise burns more calories. But according to a new study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins University, the body’s metabolism rapidly decreases back to pre-exercise levels within half an hour after cardio exercise. On the other hand, strength training, also known as resistance training, may result to a more extensive calorie burning for up to two hours following the workout. On top of that, regular weight lifting will increase muscle mass which will help boost a person’s metabolism.

Unfortunately, many abandon strength training as a means for losing weight because an increased muscle mass may also mean an increase in body weight. Aerobics, however, presents a lot of benefits. Aside from improving the cardiovascular status, aerobic exercise also results in an improved musculature, weight loss, reduces risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, and some types of cancer. Plus, research published in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed that regular cardio exercises also increases a person’s life span.

Hence, for optimum health and weight improvement, a combined cardio and strength training for as little as 30 to 60 minutes a day would be recommended.

2. Either dieting or exercise can sustain weight loss

A person gains weight if he eats more than what his body uses, has little physical activity, or has a low basal metabolic rate resulting in the accumulation of too much body fat. Decreasing your calorie intake may cause you to lose weight fast, but exercising will also help you keep it off for good. On the plus side, exercise has a number of benefits for your body.

3. Certain exercises can cause spot reduction

Spot reduction means losing fat at a certain spot in the body such as the belly. Contrary to common belief and commercials aired on media, spot reduction remains a myth. There is neither such exercise pattern nor a pill that can reduce fat on a particular region. Fat is lost from body areas in a pattern determined by genetics and has no relationship with exercising muscles underneath the layer of fat. If you are determined to have a spot reduction of fat, only liposuction or the surgical suctioning of adipose (fat) tissue can accomplish such.

4. Do not eat beyond 7:00 pm

There is no sense why you should not eat past seven or at night. Perhaps this is attributed to the decrease in metabolism when sleeping. But in fact, calories do not recognize time. What’s important is learning to know how much is too much, as well as your activity afterwards because this belief assumes that people will stay idle after dinner.

5. Do not eat in between meals

Snacks aren’t the reason why you gain weight. Blame it on the calories. In fact, most diet plans advocate eating in small but frequent feedings. This will keep you from going hungry and prevent you from overeating.

Here's to your health!!

Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Hobo’s poem of the Day

Here is a poem sent to me that stands as a reminder to appreciate the friends and loved ones in your life.

To My Sistas

Life is too short to wake up with regrets.

So love the people who treat you right.

Love the ones who don't, just because you can.

Believe everything happens for a reason.


If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands. If it changes your life, let it.


God never said life would be easy. He just promised it would be worth it.


To my Sistas
I am only as strong as the coffee I drink,
The hairspray I use and the friends I have.
To the cool women that have touched my life...

Here's to you!


(Author Unknown)

Keeping hope Alive in 2010 and Beyond

Good Day All!!!

Over the last few days I have spoken with a several people that have been hit by this economic situation. I'm no stranger to it and for sure am going day to day just holding on to my hopes in this ever changing corporate environment. I ask how do you keep pressing forward in this?

Times have been so hard lately and unfortunately the middle class worker is where the biggest hit is being felt. People who have made decent livings for their families are now forced to start over. At my company the CEO speaks about women being the future of economic growth but where does that leave the men we encounter? In my bracket the job market starts to get smaller and smaller unless you happen to be in executive management. What happens to the normal, everyday people that have made a living either with their brains or with their hands.

As a people how do we continue to encourage those that fall in this category? Something I learned a long time ago when I myself was out of work is that you have to stay focused. Not an easy task but a must. You have to "reinvent'' yourself. Take the time to find a passion or something that you feel passionate about. I know when you are trying to figure out how to pay Peter and Paul at the same time, the last thing on your mind is a passion, but it is a great place to start. With all the different programs going on right now it is a good time to look and see where the economic future is headed. Everyone is going green right now, so why not look to different types of eco-friendly jobs. I heard someone say not to long ago that there are jobs to be had but the problem is that we don't have skilled people to fill them.

So I say get a skill. This is surely a good time to take a new turn in life.

Just to recap here is my list:

Reinvent yourself

Stay focused on what you are after

Research opportunities outside of your current career opportunities - (You may be surprised that what you know now may fit in other areas of employment)

Talk to people (network)- Use all occasions to let people know you are searching

Get involved in your community -It is always good to have some connections


Stay blessed and stand firm in faith.

Much Love
Chanel

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

For Colored Girls

Tyler Perry's movie is based on Ntozake Shange's 1975 play For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf. Initially staged in California, it has been performed Off-Broadway and on Broadway, and adapted as a book, a television film, and a theatrical film. The 1977 Broadway production was nominated for a Tony Award for best play.

Each of the women portray one of the characters represented in the collection of twenty poems, revealing different issues that impact women in general and women of color in particular.

If you haven't seen the trailer check it out and then go see it. I know I am!!



Stiletto
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

PPP's Tip of the Week

Well as we get closer and closer to winter it's time to start thinking about the best way to heat our homes without going broke. The following are tips from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Winter

This winter, save money and stay warm. Keep your energy bill and your pollution output low this winter by taking a whole-house approach to heating.

•During the heating season, keep the draperies and shades on your south facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home and closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.

•Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable when home.

•By resetting your programmable thermostat from 72 degrees to 65 degrees for eight hours a day (for instance, while no one is home or while everyone is tucked in bed) you can cut your heating bill by up to 10 percent.

•Weatherize your home-caulk and weatherstrip any doors and windows that leak air.

•Properly maintain and clean heating equipment.

•Replace furnace filters regularly.

•Check the insulation in your attic, ceilings, exterior and basement walls, floors, and crawl spaces to see if it meets the levels recommended for your area.

Hopefully we won't be faced with a brutal winter but let's be prepared just in case!

Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

It's Time to "Fall Back", but why?

How Daylight Saving Time Works


During late Winter we move our clocks one hour ahead and "lose" an hour during the night and each Fall we move our clocks back one hour and "gain" an extra hour. But Daylight Saving Time (and not Daylight Savings Time with an "s") wasn't just created to confuse our schedules.

The phrase "Spring forward, Fall back" helps people remember how Daylight Saving Time affects their clocks. At 2 a.m. on the second Sunday in March, we set our clocks forward one hour ahead of Standard Time ("Spring forward," even though Spring doesn't begin until late March, several weeks after the start of Daylight Saving Time). We "Fall back" at 2 a.m. on the first Sunday in November by setting our clock back one hour and thus returning to Standard Time.

The change to Daylight Saving Time ostensibly allows us to use less energy in lighting our homes by taking advantage of the longer and later daylight hours. During the eight-month period of Daylight Saving Time, the names of time in each of the time zones in the U.S. (map) change as well. Eastern Standard Time (EST) becomes Eastern Daylight Time, Central Standard Time (CST) becomes Central Daylight Time (CDT), Mountain Standard Time (MST) becomes Mountain Daylight Time (MDT), Pacific Standard Time becomes Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), and so forth.

So remember, 2:00 a.m. Sunday, November 7th "Fall Back" 1 hour!!

Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Plateau

After a half year of progress in losing weight, I’ve reached the dreaded state of plateau. I’ll admit, I haven’t been watching what I each as much as I did from January to July but I’ve still managed to maintain my 29 pound weight loss. I’ve not gone completely overboard, but I’m right there on the edge playing with fire. In the last few weeks I’ve had some of my favorites that had been forbidden. It is like flipping a light switch in my mind. It is so amazing. I had an orange scone at Panera Bread a few weeks ago, and think about it at least once week since then. I know the deal though. I’ve been on this ride before. Lose, lose, lose half the year, gain, gain, gain the other half. Not this year.

I decided to look up the definition of plateau – v. to reach a state or level of little or no growth, or decline, esp. to stop increasing or progressing: remain at a stable level of achievement; level off. This doesn’t sound so bad, after all remaining at a stable level of achievement is great. But to stop progressing, now that bothers me. Like times before, after a few months, the thought of tracking calories or counting points is no longer appealing. But I’m encouraged. Why, you might ask? I’m encouraged because I really do know how and what to eat. Eating right is a choice, the same as choosing to be happy. Other posts on this blog have been so helpful in keeping me encouraged about my weight loss and living a healthy life. At the end of the day it’s all about health, not the number on the scale or the size of the clothing in the closet.

When it comes to losing weight, I have knowledge which is defined as - n. acquaintance with facts, truths, or principles, as from study or investigation. What I need now is action, discipline. That’s right the dreaded EXERCISE!! Sigh! Pray for me! :)


Kitten Heels

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Weight Loss Wednesday

7 Small Steps to a Healthy You
Article By: Sally Hammond courtesy of Weight Watchers.com


Making just one small lifestyle change a day, even one a week, can help you reach your weight-loss goals. Here are seven strategies to work on ... starting today!

You look in the mirror one day and everything is wrong. Your hair, your teeth, your skin, your shape. Especially your shape. So you write a long list, and you make a pact with yourself that tomorrow you'll start a new whiz-bang weight-loss and life-changing plan. According to your calculations, you will be trim, taut and irresistible in three months.

Three weeks down the road, things are worse. What went wrong? Basically, you fell victim to the "END" (Everything Now Dilemma).

With END you have so much on your mind at once that you get confused, you forget a thing or two, you get rattled and then you give up. When you take one thing at a time, your chances for success get much better. Here's a seven-step plan that will help you to take it day by day.

This is as simple as the days of the week because that's how it works: seven days, seven steps. Each day you add one thing, so that by the end of the week you are juggling seven balls without dropping one. Here's how:

Monday
Back to work or school. Resolve that all you will do differently today will be to make sure to eat two or more pieces of fresh fruit. Any time, any way.

Tuesday
Today you will set some goals. Plan where you would like to be by the end of the month, then the end of the year — both in your private and personal lives. Write these goals in your diary or stick them where you'll see them.

Wednesday
Water day. Eat that fruit, keep your goals in mind and drink six or more glasses of water. Add variety with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice. Or sip on herbal tea if you prefer.

Thursday
Add in some exercise. Go for a 20- to 30-minute walk. Walk in the park, around your neighborhood or head for the mall and do some fast-paced window shopping...but don't forget the fruit, the water and to review your goals.

Friday
Fruit, walk, water, goals ... it's getting easier. So this is the day you give your diet a spring cleaning. Eliminate foods that are not helping you stay trim and healthy. You know what they are.

Saturday
Play day. Well done! You're still drinking plenty of water, including fresh fruit in your diet, exercising, eating well and generally staying on track with your life. Spoil yourself with a special treat. Go on, you deserve it. Have some frozen yogurt for dessert, take in that new movie, or plan a weekend away.

Sunday
Traditionally a day of rest. And you can rest, too, since relaxation is key to maintaining control over your new healthy regimen. Take time to lie in a hammock and gaze at the clouds. Put on a facial mask, take a long, luxurious bubble bath, read a book or play with your pet.

Now that wasn't so hard, was it? By the end of just one week you are happier, brighter, healthier and ready to keep going — because you know it takes just three weeks to create a habit. Except you will have created seven by then.

Here's to your health!

Pumps, Purses & Positivity
Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Kitten Heels Recommends…..

Earlier this year (2010), I wrote about the theatre. Well, I was finally able to enjoy an awesome play. Although this was the third time, I was still blown away by Disney’s THE LION KING! I enjoyed it at the Cadillac Palace theatre in Chicago. It was just as beautiful and funny and thrilling as before. I went with several adult friends and the 8-year old daughter of one of them. It was the first time for everyone except me and one other lady. The seats were great – Row A in Dress Circle Left. I’ve always enjoyed music, especially live music. I’d forgotten how much I enjoyed the orchestra paired with two percussionists. And the voices of the ensemble performers were so pure. For some reason the songs have a different meaning for me every time I see this play. Guess I’m just maturing. “They Live In You”, “Circle of Life”, and even “Hakuna Matata” all filled me with joy and caused me to reflect. This is a play for the whole family. It runs through Saturday November 27th.
As we were leaving, I asked the 8-year old if she liked the play. She exclaimed, “I loved it!” You will too. For now, enjoy a clip from the Original London Cast of THE LION KING.



Kitten Heels

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women

Happy Monday!

There are so many wonderful things to be thankful for and I just want everyone to have a good day.

Having a good day starts by being healthy and eating correctly. As you know, I am always on the lookout for ways to be healthier.

By happenstance, this women started up a conversation with me while I was on the treadmill. Normally, I don't talk to anyone when I go to the health club. I put the Ipod on and take off running. For this particular day, I grabbed the wrong headphones and couldn't use my Ipod.

There were only 3 people on the 50+ treadmills and she picked the one next to me. I don't talk on airplanes and I couldn't figure out for the life of me, why she didn't pick one of the other 47 treadmills. Anyway, she started talking to me about the "Eat Clean Diet". She was going on and on, how it changed her life. She started out weighing 320 pounds and is now down to 200. She looked tight, healthy, clear skin and white eyes. By the time she finished, she had given me her book and insisted that I read it and try this diet. I was a little taken aback, as I think I am looking pretty good for 47. I exercise 6 days a week, eat healthy, but I do love sugar........

She didn't mean it as an insult, she thought I was already on the Eat Clean Diet and wanted to share and swap stories. It just had to be divine intervention, as I snuck to the health club before church and was late getting to church, from talking to her.

Anyway, I started reading this book and found some very valid points, especially about menopause, cellulite and just taking charge of your eating. I can't recommend the book yet, but stay tuned for next week.

If you have heard of this book and diet, please let me know.

Peace and Love,

Sandals,

Real Life, Real Talk, Real Women