Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Surfing the Event Horizon...

OYE, what a day!! It being the last day of the month and quarter almost killed me at work today. I'm convinced of it! I could feel my mind melting into the deep abyss of never ending emails. My computer screen was like a joy sucking massive black hole. Somehow I managed to swirl around in the event horizon without slipping into the blackness. I guess Lady Luck was on my side today. If you can call my close encounter with a mental breakdown, luck. Anyways, I'm rambling. SHOCKING I know!

I promise to stop now. Let's move on now so I can BLOW YOUR MIND with my healthy meals.

BREAKFAST (meal #1) at 9:00am.

I had my daily fix of creamy goodness. Naturally! What else were you expecting?
  • 1/2 cup of old fashioned oats
  • 1/4 cup wheat bran
  • 1 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • dash pumpkin pie spice
  • pinch salt
  • Splenda to taste
  • (Microwaved and topped it with 1 tbs ground flax, 2 tbs cherry preserves which I microwaved for 20 seconds to make it syrupy and 1 tbs of Better N' Peanut Butter)


Oatmeal makes the world go round! Plain and simple!

I juggled work in-between bites. What can I say. I have the rare multitasking gene. I jug-jug-juggled clear through till lunchtime. Weeeeeeeeeeeeee!

LUNCH (meal #2) at 12:30pm.

I had a very messy wrap today. I stuffed a honey wheat FlatOut with spinach, roasted garlic hummus, red bell peppers and warm pinto beans. It was super tasty but fell apart as I was eating it. Don't worry, not a morsel was left behind! I also had two fuzzy little kiwis. Tasty, tasty.


How I managed to leave the office today for a quick 30 minute break is beyond explanation and all human comprehension. Yet I pulled it off. I ran to Target and picked up a lovely new BRIGHT orange purse and a new water bottle. I was in desperate need of BOTH!


Shopping makes me happy. I INSTANTLY felt better. Sadly though, I had to go back to work. THE HORROR!

SNACK (meal #3) at 4:50pm.


I lost complete track of time and almost ended up skipping my pre-workout snack. I sort of wish I had because it left me feeling full and "off" during most of my workout. Sigh. It was tasty though!
  • Plain Dannon Greek yogurt
  • Crispy Pink apple
  • Udi's vanilla granola


WORKOUT!

I arrived at the gym feeling full and 20 minutes later than usual. Not a good start! Somehow I managed to work through it though and by the time I was done I felt amazing. The stress was gone and so was that nasty "off" feeling in my stomach. I love sweat therapy!!!

Elliptical Cross Trainer
45 minutes, 3.82 miles,
Hill Climb, Levels 6-18

The Elliptical WHOOPED my but today!!!

Ab workouts, 20 minutes
I did a mix of crunches, alternate heel touches, dumbbell side bend (with 10lb dumbbell), sit-ups, scissor kicks, oblique twists, reverse crunches and a 1 min. plank.

Total time at the gym = 1:05
Max HR = 172
Average HR = 144
Total Calories Burned = 559

I wasn't craving a smoothie when I came home. What I was craving was coffee. Yeah, I did the UNTHINKABLE and loaded up the French Press. I know my goal is to only have 1 cup a day but I DON'T EVEN CARE! It's been a rough day! I needed caffeine therapy!


And look what was waiting for me from the AMAZING people at Stonyfield!!! They sent me the most adorable box of Oikos Greek yogurt to try. Isn't it the cutest?


I received two of their caramel flavor and two of their chocolate flavor.


LOOK, they had each yogurt cup tucked inside a cupcake liner. ADORABLE!


I'll probably try the caramel one tomorrow!! They also sent me some lovely coupons. Thank's Stoneyfield! You know I love you! Oikos is by far my favorite Greek yogurt! Hands down.

DINNER (meal #4) at 10:00pm (I only had 4 meals today. :-o )

I ate dinner way later than I wanted to. Sort of lost track of time when I got home. It just felt so good to sit down and do NOTHING for a while. We watched an episode of Mad Men while I sipped on my coffee. Before I knew it, it was 9:00 and I still smelled like the gym (not good) so I cleaned up before dinner.

I was having serious cravings for taco salad tonight. MM, I love it! I made the usual recipe (found ***HERE***) but I used pinto beans instead of black beans. This hit the spot!


I think we're about to watch more Mad Men. We just started watching it today. I guess it got great reviews? Not bad so far. The Mr. ordered it on NetFlix. Gotta go. Time to relax and do nothing for a bit. My favorite! :)

XOXO
Ildie

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Romantic dinner for Moi

Happy Tuesday Lovelies! I only had two things on the brain this morning, food and fashion. Let me explain. My soupy dinner was not as substantial as usual and I woke up starving. This is never a good thing! Then there was my annoying fashion dilemma rearing its ugly face again. It's getting nicer out and I have NO Spring clothes that fit. As in fit right without being either an over sized trash bag or a snug tube sock. I find neither of these looks to be aesthetically pleasing!! I will clearly need to go shopping soon! SIGH!

I found myself humming, smiling and singing all the way to work today. Visions of beaches, cocktails and sunshine were running rampant in my head. I'm clearly still enjoying the afterglow of our successful vacation planning. I'm currently happier than a pig in --it! ;)

BREAKFAST (meal #1) at 9:00am.

I NEEDED oatmeal and I needed it BAD! My stomach felt like it was eating itself from the inside out.
  • 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
  • 1/4 wheat bran
  • 1 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • dash apple pie spice
  • pinch salt
  • Splenda to taste
  • 1 tbs unsweetened dark cocoa
  • (Microwaved and topped with 1 tbs ground flax, 2 tbs sugar free cherry preserves and 1 tbs Better N' Peanut Butter.)


Oh....so....good....

Work was... well it was quiet today. SO STRANGE! The last few days of the month (and in this instance, the quarter too) are usually riddled with insane demands, temper tantrums, whining and threats. All was well in florescent paradise though. I got a lot of filing done and cleaned my office up a bit. I think the sunshine was fueling my inner workaholic!

LUNCH (meal #2) at 12:30pm.

I present to you a tasty salad, served in my new office bowl. I was sick of eating large salads off of a plate so I picked this up the other day for less than $2. Not bad right?
  • Spinach
  • Tomato
  • Carrots
  • Broccoli
  • Morning Star Farms Asian burger
  • Kaia Foods Garlic & Sea Salt sesame seeds
  • Spray Butter


We left with ambitions of enjoying some fresh air and sunshine on our break today but somehow found ourselves roaming around Pier1 like a bunch of drooling babies. I could just go crazy up in there if money were no option. I managed to refrain and left with nothing though. Nothing except refurnishing and redecorating dreams that were crushed by those little annoying things called "price tags". :)

SNACK (meal #3) at 4:00.

A plain cup of Yoplait Greek yogurt livingly accompanied by a juicy Fuji apple, cinnamon and a sprinkle of Udi's vanilla granola. YUM!


DILEMMA - I am STILL struggling with my water intake. No idea what the hot heck is going on. I used to drink way more, no problem. Lately I struggle to get in over 60oz. Not good! You would think that with the nicer weather, it would be easier. NOPE! I need to work on this some more! I just wanted to vent. All done now...

After work we went straight to the gym for Chest, Back and Cardio day.

WORKOUT!

Advanced Chest Press (plate loaded)
40lb x 15 (3 sets)
Row Machine (plate loaded)
50lb x 15 (3 sets)
Seated Chest Press (plate loaded)
70lb x 15
60lb x 15
50lb x 11
High Row Machine (plate loaded)
100lb x 15 (3 sets)
Seated Chest Press (cable)
75lb x 15 (2 sets)
60lb x 15
Face Pull with rope grip (cable)
90lb x 15 (3 sets)
Lat Pulldown with V-Bar (cable)
70lb x 15
60lb x 15
50lb x 15
Elliptical Cross Trainer
30 minutes, 2.64 miles, intervals at level 6-10

Total time at the gym = 1:18
Max HR = 169
Average HR = 139
Total Calories Burned = 638


I was a sweaty mess of a human being by the time we were done. GROSS!

SNACK (meal #4) at 7:15pm.

I rushed home and made a quick recovery shake with 1 scoop of chocolate peanut butter whey protein powder, 1/2 unsweetened vanilla Almond Breeze and 1/2 cup water. Shaken, not stirred, thank you very much!


I was all by my lonesome tonight, unless you count the cat. He is my forever and always there, in your face, by your feet staring at you while you pee companion. HAHAHA! He's such a little pervert! Nick was at his Mama's having some sort of an unhealthy FEAST per the usual.

DINNER (meal #5) at 9:00pm.

I set the mood for a romantic dinner for one this evening. I lit some candles, placed the remote within reach for some girlie DVR lovin and grabbed the necessities for a pedicure/manicure. Sometimes I love being home alone!

I actually felt like making something special just for me tonight. I had no plan but somehow managed to come up with the most amazing dish. A bowl bursting with healthy mexican style goodness. It couldn't have been simpler.

Into a saucepan I added the following...
  • 1 serving of Morning Star Farms grounds
  • 1 tbs Taco seasoning
  • 1/4 cup pinto beans
  • 1/2 cup cooked Arborio rice
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • Sauteed and chopped onions, mushrooms and red bell pepper (which I cooked up with Pam & S+P right before adding it to the mix)
The entire meal was done in a less than 15 minutes and that includes sauteing all of the veggies first.


Topped with sour cream and enjoyed with a few low fat blue corn chips on the side.


The only thing it was missing was corn but I didn't have any at home. It was still insanely delicious though. And filling! Good grief! I will definitely be making it again.

Time to get my cry on and turn on one of my recorded episodes of What Not To Wear. I always cry when I watch that show. I just can't help myself! I bet it will only fuel my desire to go shopping even more... OYE! I wish someone would hand me $5,000 and tell me to spend it in New York. OH NO! PLEASE! YOU'RE REALLY BENDING MY ARM HERE! Pshhh, I would be ALL over that card baby! All over it!

Stay Sassy!
XOXO
Ildie

Monday, March 29, 2010

Booked Baby!

No, the title of today's post does not mean that I'm writing a book. In no way does it mean that I was offered a book deal because some brilliant publisher realized that I was a priceless little gem. I wish!!! BUT NO!

What it DOES mean is that WE DID IT! It's official. We booked an amazing vacation house on Ocracoke Island, NC and we leave in mid May for a week long getaway from life, stress, work and drama. I AM SERIOUSLY INCAPABLE OF CONTAINING MY JOY RIGHT NOW! I already requested the time off at work. I'm giddy! The insane list writing already commenced last night. There was no stopping me. The numerous (yes, numerous) lists cover many, MANY exciting topics. Such as...
  1. What to buy before hand,
  2. What to buy there (food wise),
  3. What to pack for the car ride,
  4. What to pack period.
  5. What to do while there.
I love making lists! Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Here's a sneak peek from the rental property website.... (juuuust a mini teaser...) This is the view from the deck. AHHHHHHHH! I'm going to LIVE out there! So gorgeous!


Okay, please excuse my uncontrollable enthusiasm. We can now focus on some edible goodies.

BREAKFAST (meal #1) at 9:15am.

I had the usual "at work" morning feast.
  • 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
  • 1/4 wheat bran
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp apple pie spice
  • pinch salt
  • Splenda to taste
  • (Microwaved to creamy perfection and topped with 1 tbs Better N' Peanut Butter, 2 tbs sugar free cherry preserves, 1 tbs ground flax)


I started making more lists for vacation in between bites. You know, just in case I lose the ones at home. (My list problem runs deep...)

LUNCH (meal #2) at 12:30pm.

I made a tasty little wrap in a honey wheat FlatOut with spinach, tomato, orange bell pepper and smoked turkey. On the side I had more peppers, tomato and a very ripe kiwi. Twas tasty.


Ann and I escaped Cubicle Shangri-La today and went to Target on our break. She needed a few items for her new apartment and I just needed a break away from my nagging computer screen. Mental breaks are so lovely.

SNACK (meal #3) at 4:15pm.

I enjoyed a blueberry Dannon Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of Udi's vanilla granola.


Alright people, it's official. I am in love with Udi's. I love the chewiness of their granola. The fresh scent of honey and vanilla in this mix was amazing.


The second I opened the bag it was like being slapped in the face with a vanilla infused honeycomb. Intense aroma, great flavor and perfect texture. LOVE!

After work we hit them gym hard. I was in the groove today. It was Bicep, Tricep, Shoulders and Cardio day. My favorite. ;)

WORKOUT!

Tricep Pushdown (cable)
80lb x 15
70lb x 15 (2 sets)
Bicep Curl (barbell)
40lb x 15
35lb x 15 (2 sets)
Front Shoulder Raise (barbell)
25lb x 15
20lb x 15 (2 sets)
Tricep Overhead Extension (Cable)
50lb x 15 (3 sets)
21's (barbell)
25lb x 21 (3 sets)

SUPERSET (3 sets)
Military Press (barbell)

35lb x 12
Upright Row (barbell)
35lb x 12

Skull Crusher (barbell)
25lb x 15 (3 sets)
Bicep Curls (barbell)
45lb x 9 ( :-0 )
Elliptical Cross Trainer
30 minutes, Uphill Challenge, Levels 6-18 (18 is insanity!)

Total time at gym = 1:12
Max HR = 178
Average HR = 147
Total Calories Burned = 650


SNACK (meal #4) at 7:15pm.

I refueled with a green monster smoothie as soon as I got home. It has been to long my beloved green beast. Far too long!
  • 1 cup unsweetened vanilla Almond Breeze
  • 1 scoop chocolate whey protein powder
  • 1 banana
  • 1 tbs sugar free Irish Cream Torani syrup
  • 2 cups ice
  • 2 cups spinach leaves


So good, but so cold. It almost hurt to finish it. ALMOST! Of course I managed because it was absolutely delicious! I just wrapped up in a blanket until I was done and then warmed up in a nice hot bath.

DINNER (meal #5) at 9:30pm.

I've been craving a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup for quite some time now. I finally gave in and had it tonight, seasoned with black pepper and cayenne.


On the side I had a grilled cheese sandwich. I made it with rye bread and fat free cheddar cheese. I like using rye. It adds so much flavor to this typical sandwich. It was delicious!


Time to go snuggle with the Mr. now. He's wrapped in a blanket and looks really comfortable. I want in on that comfort.

Lids are getting heavy. I think it will be bedtime soon.....
XOXO
Ildie

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Lazy BUM!

HELOOOOOO there. I somehow managed to get ten (YES, 10!!) hours of sleep last night. Good grief it felt fantastic! I didn't wake up during the night either. A rare occurrence indeed! Now then, where did we leave off last night? Ahh, yes, my friends Birthday dinner. Let's recap shall we?

We arrived at Aladdin's Eatery right on time and promptly sat down to feast. I was FAMISHED! Seriously! I was completely and utterly starving by the time I opened the menu.


Drool and food fantasies ensued as soon as I started reading over my options. They have great choices for vegetarians and meat lovers and everything is delicious. It's why I love the place so much! I decided on the Ali Baba Pitza. (From their site: A fresh pita topped with pureed eggplant, sliced tomatoes, feta cheese, char-grilled slices of eggplant, slivered calamata olives all sprinkled with oregano.)


I also enjoyed two cups of green tea and a small side salad with their delicious almond nut dressing but I forgot to take a picture. I love their almond nut dressing!!! It's to DIE for!

After dinner I pulled out my LAME card and decided to call it a night. I was physically exhausted from my busy day! Everyone else moved the party to a friends house to enjoy some homemade cake. Sadly I didn't have the energy to join in the decadence. I passed out less than an hour after we got home and stayed in bed for 10 hours straight. I clearly needed it!
______________________________________________________
SUNDAY....

I woke up feeling refreshed and ready to go! The best part was that I had nothing to do and nowhere to go. GLORIOUS! A whole day ALL to myself! YAY! I loaded up the French Press with vanilla biscotti flavored coffee and enjoyed a cup while perusing blog land. So lovely!


BREAKFAST (meal #1) at 11:00am.

Breakfast was WAY later than usual today. I sort of lost track of time with all of the magnificent blogs I was catching up on. ;)

Here we have an egg white scramble made with 4 eggs (seasoned with S+P), a fruit salad (1/2 banana, 1/2 fuji apple, 1 kiwi, lime juice and Splenda), and a wheat bagel thin with Better N' Peanut Butter on one side and sugar free strawberry jam on the other. Perfection!


After breakfast I did some amazingly boring and unexciting things around the house. I made the bed, emptied the dishwasher, cleaned my makeup drawer and organized the medicine cabinet. WHOAH! FUN I KNOW! ;)

I then proceeded to do some SERIOUS vacation destination investigation (I like rhyming) online. Somehow I managed to get lost in my deeply focused research for nearly two hours. BUT, I do think we decided on a destination. I'm excited!

LUNCH (meal #2) at 4:00pm.

Once again, lunch was WAY later than usual because of my super late breakfast. I wasn't very hungry so I decided to make a small salad.
  • Spinach
  • Orange bell pepper
  • Tomato
  • Carrots
  • Chick peas
  • Morning Star Farms black bean burger
  • Sea salt & garlic sunflower seeds
  • Spray Butter
  • Light honey mustard dressing


SNACK (meal #3) at 6:00pm.

I was craving yogurt like MAD so I made a delicious little treat with plain Yoplait Greek yogurt, a Fuji apple and a sprinkle of Udi's original granola.


OMG. This granola is amazing. Jam packed with raisins, banana chips, walnuts, cashews, almonds and pistachios. The flavor and texture is incredible. I'm seriously in love with this flavor. Though the Au Naturel variety is tasty, I like this one EVEN more. I gladly rate this one a 10 out of 10. NO! WAIT! 11 out of 10. Yeah, that sounds better! :)


After my snack attack, Nick and I dove head first into vacation planning again. We're driven damn it! We're DYING to pick a place already. We have officially decided on Ocracoke Island, NC. We've narrowed it down to 3 rental properties and plan to call them up (hopefully tomorrow) with some questions. Details to follow once we make it official. SOOOOOOO EXITED!

DINNER (meal #4) at 9:30pm.

Nick's brother Dan just showed up for another MANLY SESSION of Rally race watching. The two of them decided to have a classy dinner together. Breaded fish sandwiches, hot fries and Red Stripe beer. I don't get men sometimes!! HA! I, being the responsible (and lazy) one, decided to have cereal instead (without beer of course). :)


Easy peasy. I just didn't feel like cooking. I've been a LAZY BUM all day and I loved every single second of it. I didn't even get dressed until 10 minutes before Dan showed up. Classy I know! ;)

I think I'll go hibernate in my bedroom now. The boys are hootin, hollerin and getting all PUMPED UP over some crazy Subaru's going 100 mph on winding snow covered roads (that's like my worst nightmare by the way...). Again, I'm baffled at their excitement. I think I'll go watch some of the Travel Channel or HGTV instead. To each their own I guess. ;)

Be back tomorrow!
XOXO
Ildie
 

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