Monday, 8/26/2013

Day 238, 8/26/2013 - Eat, the usual during the day, a protein shake, coffee and protein bar. For dinner I enjoyed my left over cajun pasta from TGI Friday's. Great when you actually remember to use the left overs instead of disposing of them three weeks later when they become UFOs (unidentified food objects). Pray, my prayer was that I can get everything done this week at work prior to getting away for a long weekend. Joy, my joy was in treating myself to a mani/pedi. Nothing like the feel of your feet after a good pedicure!

Sunday, 8/25/2013

 

Day 237, 8/25/2013 - Eat, had lunch with friend, Sue, after church at Battuto Italian Kitchen. Their meat and cheese board did not disappoint. Since Sue is gluten intolerant, we chose the chicken pasta with gluten free pasta to share for our entrée. Gelato for dessert with three great flavors, chocolate, coconut and pistachio, delish! Pray, my prayer today was that I do well singing in the church choir after a couple of years off from singing. Anyone who sings knows that you definitely have to be in good shape to do so. I know that I can do it and I have taken the first "scary" step and that was to commit to regular rehearsals and singing with a new choir. I have felt very welcome so far. It is so hard to step outside of your comfort zone.

 

Joy, my joy was in being a part of the surprise party for friend, Michelle, who celebrated her 50th last week. Her children really pulled off a great surprise. Her oldest daughter, Jessica did so much work on it and it really paid off. It's been a tough year for their family with several losses. Good job kids and happy birthday, Michelle!

 

Saturday, 8/24/2013

 

Day 236, 8/24/2013 - Eat, had coffee in my Destin Flip Flop mug with my English muffin. I was transported back to the white sand beaches, ah. I want to live near the beach one day. I will continue to dream that dream until one day I can make it happen. Enjoyed seeing "The Butler" with friend, Michelle. What a reminder of our nation's recent history of racial inequality! We had dinner at TGI Friday's after. We chose Long Island Iced Tea to drink, and dumplings and flatbread pizza for appetizers. I chose Cajun Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp, could only eat 1/2, yay leftovers. Delicious! Pray, prayers of thanksgiving that my friend has been so supportive in helping me proceed through the settlement process in an insurance claim. No matter what happens in the settlement, I am blessed to have the support of my friends. Joy, my joy is in my friend, Kendra, who still does my hair regularly even though she is now working as a R.N. Love ya girl! My hair looks great!

 

Friday, 8/23/2013

 

Day 235, 8/23/2013 - Eat, my usual Friday stop at Starbucks was good for breakfast and lunch. My chocolate smoothie with two shots of espresso and the ham and New York cheddar sandwich to keep me going until dinner. Starbucks puts a "fortune like" sticker on every sandwich,  today's said "deliciously ever after." It's like a little extra treat with every sandwich, kinda cool. Dinner was with friends, Kari and Alys, Romano's Macaroni Grill. We enjoyed a 30% off coupon and chose appetizers,  wine and entrees well. The appetizer was Italian nachos with crispy light chips, Italian sausage, fried ravioli,  cheese, peppers, etc. Very different but very good. I chose lobster ravioli for my entrée and we shared chocolate gelato for dessert, yum! Pray, my prayers were for my friend, Angie, who had her port removed today in a day procedure. Exciting for her that she no longer needs the port. Prayers answered as she did well and went home as scheduled. Joy, my joy is in my saying yes to most invitations since my divorce. There was a time when I was very stuck in a rut and might just go home on a Friday night giving any number of  reasons or excuses. Then my life totally changed and turned on a dime. Life is short and I have decided to live in the moment and not ever be stuck in a rut. To never let anxiety of not knowing where I am going get in the way of going there. So, when people ask me to do something, I generally say yes and enjoy each new experience and the people I meet along the way.

 

Thursday, 8/22/2013

Day 234, 8/22/2013 - Eat, had my usual light eats during the day. Being right next to Potbelly Sandwich Shop after my 90 minute massage, I chose their Italian sandwich for my dinner. Salami, pepperoni, provolone cheese and other fresh veggies make for a delicious toasted sandwich. Of course I could not leave the shop without a Dream Bar. Oatmeal, coconut,  chocolate, caramel in a wonderful square bar of chewy goodness. Pray, prayers for patience today. I am learning that great patience is necessary when dealing with insurance companies. Joy, my joy was in my 90 minute massage. I will try not to let my shoulders creep back up to my ears. They get so tense what with working at a computer every day, driving and ringing hanbells several nights a week. Keep telling myself, R-E-L-A-X.

Wednesday, 8/21/2013

Day 233, 8/21/2013 - Eat, since I never know what or how much I will eat in the evening, I eat lightly during the days. Of course I was super hungry before going into four hours of rehearsals in the evening. I usually do not do fast food for dinner but stopped at a Taco Bell. I actually like some of their items. I know, they're loaded with fat. It was "Happier Hour" and certain items were only $1, such a deal. I got two Loaded Grillers and one Doritos Taco. Not bad for dinner on the run. Pray, I pray today for family and friends of our handy man, John Foster. He died unexpectedly this morning. He was a simple man. He lived and survived on less than I could ever imagine. Even though he had health issues, his death was very unexpected. Rest in peace our friend. Joy, my joy was in my decision to move ahead to new and different things. I was welcomed into a new church choir tonight with open arms. Sometimes the thing we put off for the longest is the best move you can make for your mental health and well being. I am proud of myself for making a commitment to a new group.

 

Tuesday, 8/20/2013

Day 232, 8/20/2013 - Eat,  meal replacements during the day. The Mac & Cheese (small portion) is not bad. It is more the portion size that I "should" eat on a daily basis. But "real" Mac & Cheese is so good, I can never resist. Met my Tuesday rehearsal buddies at Rosa's Cafe for Taco Tuesday. Such a good deal, for around $4 you get 3 tacos, rice & beans and 2 freshly made flour tortillas. I made my flour tortillas into dessert by adding butter and honey, yum! Pray, I prayed the serinity prayer today as there are a lot of things in my life that I must realize, I cannot change. There are so many things going on right now that are stressing me out. I should pray this prayer daily for awhile.

God grant me the
     SERINITY to accept the things I cannot change,
          COURAGE to change the things I can, and
               WISDOM to know the difference. 

Joy, I enjoy my Tuesday night dinner buddies. It is so nice to be able to decompress and vent to each other about our week or day's events before our rehearsal. I am blessed to know these ladies.

Monday, 8/19/2013

Day 231, 8/19/2013 - Eat, protein shakes and bars during the day so that I could celebrate with friends in the evening. Mother of Twins mom, Michelle celebrated her 50th today. We had a feast of grilled chicken, baked beans, corn casserole, fresh tomatoes & cucumbers, sausage cream cheese dip and Fritos. Top all that off with champagne mojitos and an awesome decadent chocolate cake and you have the makings of a great party. Pray, continued prayers for wisdom and clarity of thought as I deal with the settlement of an insurance claim. Joy, my joy is in the friends who all came together in celebration of our mutual friend and her special birthday. I love these women!

Sunday, 8/18/2013

Day 230, 8/18/2013 - Eat, had Kolaches, donuts and juice provided for breakfast. Had an 8 am call for playing handbells for both church services. It was nice to have breakfast provided. Met my son, James,  for lunch at Panera where I had my favorite spinach salad and their white cheddar mac & cheese. We shared a shortbread cookie for dessert. Yum! Pray, prayers of thanksgiving as the handbell choir rang well after only 1 hour of rehearsal on 2 pieces. Joy, my joy was in having lunch with my son, James and in enjoying a nice long Sunday afternoon nap. I love naps!

Saturday, 8/17/2013

Day 229, 8/17/2013 - Eat, had Starbuck's protein smoothie to start the day of recording handbell music. Concert Bells of Fort Worth had a productive recording session from 9 to 4. The tough part is standing for so many hours. It takes its toll on everyone but all persevered and we accomplished the task at hand. After a brief period of rest I met friends, Marilyn and Cindy, for dinner. We met at a new Italian restaurant,  Battuto. I had their House Drink to start, Hendrick's gin, St. Germain, grapefruit and lemon, very refreshing. We ordered the Meat & Cheese board and Mac & Cheese pizza for our appetizers. I had the Penne Battuto for my entrée. It was very good, penne pasta with a rosa type sauce. Pray, prayers of thanksgiving that our second recording session is behind us. Proud of all that came together to make it happen. I am only one of many who participates in these recordings twice a year.

 

Joy, my joy was in experiencing a new restaurant with friends. This particular place was opened by local radio personalities, Gene & Julie. They used to host the morning show on KVIL which I listened to for years. They seem so genuine when you meet them in person. You feel as if you know them after listening to their lives day in and day out on the radio for over 8 years. A great restaurant, I wish them every success in what can be a very brutal market to break into. You should check it out for yourself  www.battuto.com.

 

Friday, 8/16/2013

 

Day 228, 8/16/2013 - Eat, breakfast and lunch was provided by Starbucks and my friend, Jennifer who gave me a gift card as a thank you. I love their oatmeal and egg salad sandwich. For dinner I had the second half of my Main Street Bistro pork sandwich. Pray, my prayers are for patience. Patience with regard to dealing with the insurance company through the settlement phase. The auto accident and subsequent injuries have taken almost two years to recover from. I am ready for it to be over but also want to feel that I am justly compensated. Continued prayers for wisdom and clarity of thought as well. Joy, unexpected joy today in the form of an ice cream truck. Not the truck that plays goofy music and trolls the neighborhood. This truck is in the form of a trailer and called Gypsy Scoops. It was at the pre-school that leases space in the church where I work. They celebrated their 3 year anniversary by providing ice cream for all. You step inside, choose from about 25 flavors, choose cone or cup and exit via the second door. Free ice cream on a summer afternoon...childlike wonder and joy!

 

Thursday, 8/15/2013

Day 227, 8/15/2013 - Eat, met friends for dinner at Main Street Bistro. We enjoyed the spinach artichoke dip for our appetizer. I selected the pulled pork sandwich for my entrée. All was excellent. Pray, prayers for wisdom and clarity of thought as I move into the settlement phase of an insurance claim. Joy, my joy is in my supportive friends,  Scott and Yvonne. We had dinner and discussed my options regarding the insurance claim. It was very helpful. I am blessed to have such supportive friends.

Wednesday, 8/14/2013

Day 226, 8/14/2013 - Eat, ate lightly during the day. My stomach was upset, so no dining out with friends, went home right after work. Feeling better later in the evening, decided to have the left over "Meatasaurus" pizza from Goodfella's. Reheated it in the oven, the only way to reheat good pizza. Was apprehensive but glad that it did not re-upset by tummy. Pray, prayers of thanksgiving that my stomach felt better. I really felt that I would "toss my cookies" earlier in the day and was very thankful that I did not.

Joy, my joy was simple, I watched CBS. Perhaps it will be the Cable/Network Dispute of 2013. I am a Time Warner Cable and broadband subscriber. They are now at war with CBS and are enforcing a blackout saying that CBS is making "outrageous demands" in their pricing. Blackouts affect over 3 million subscribers in New York, Los Angeles and Dallas. CBS went even further to block TWC broadband users from viewing CBS programs online, outrageous! Thanks to the younger generation (my daughter) I now know of "free tv" websites where I can view my CBS episodes. And, thanks to the older generation (me),  I purchased a TV antenna and can watch all the major networks for FREE. I am not sure that I will stay with Time Warner Cable. I guess that depends on how long this dispute lasts. But for now, during the summer, these solutions are working. Take that TWC and CBS!

Tuesday, 8/13/2013

 

Day 225, 8/13/2013 - Eat, protein shake and bar during the day. Met my Tuesday rehearsal buddies at Chili's for dinner. Love their chips and salsa. It did not disappoint. Shared one of their new Triple Dipper items for my entrée. It had the new guacamole burger bites, southwest egg rolls and boneless buffalo wings. The new burger bites were yummy. Pray, continued prayers for my friend, Angie for health and wellbeing. Joy, my joy was in having a productive day at the office. I read once that Tuesday is the most productive day of the week in offices. Not always true for me, but today it certainly was. A good feeling!

Monday, 8/12/2013

Day 224, 8/12/2013 - Eat, had a Panera Breakfast Power Sandwich and coffee for breakfast. All natural egg, Vermont white cheddar and smoked lean ham. I had mine on an Asiago bagel. Had some granola with almond milk for a light dinner. Pray, prayed for my visit to the breast cancer surgeon.  I am blessed to be 8 years without reoccurrence of breast cancer. This visit is always an emotional roller coaster for me. My surgeon always informs me of the latest statistics regarding my particular cancer and reoccurrence. It is always surreal to hear each year. I am blessed! Joy, my joy was in getting a good night's sleep after a wild weekend of rest and recovery.

Saturday & Sunday, 8/10 & 8/11/2013

Day 223, 8/11/2013 - Eat, feeling better today, I prepared eggs and english muffin for brunch, a good comfort food to me. Marilyn and I went for pizza at one of our favorite pizza places, Goodfella's. We had Bruschetta and what we call the Meatasaurus, some good protein for my recovering body. Pray, prayer of thanksgiving to be feeling better after a complete down day of recovery. Feel really foolish for my overindulgence. Joy, glad to have friends who kept up with me through the weekend and got me out of the house after almost two days of seclusion.

Day 222, 8/10/2013 - Eat, today was spent in recovery. I was foolish and drank way too much on Friday. Ibuprofen, vitamins, water and enriched water, were the rations for the day. Boy, did my body pay for my overindulgence! Pray, again prayers of thanksgiving that my friends made sure that I was home safely before continuing their evening. Joy, my joy for the week was the bounty I received from the community garden. I look forward to preparing and using fresh cucumber (no cucumber martinis for awhile!), acorn and butternut squash. I am blessed to receive such gifts!

Friday, 8/9/2013

Day 221, 8/9/2013 - Eat, had one of my favorite scones and coffee from Starbucks for breakfast. Decided early on to meet friends, Marilyn and Michelle, at Ye Shire Tavern for drinks and dinner. I had a couple of cucumber martinis at home before my friend, Michelle picked me up. We had fried shrimp, cheese sticks and shrimp cocktail for appetizers. In hindsight,  I should not have had cocktails at home before going to the bar. We ordered dinner and more cocktails. I was "done for" early on in the evening. My friends took care of me and saw that I got home safely before continuing their evening. What went on after I left the bar stays at the bar, as they say. I think a good time was had by several. Pray, prayer of thanksgiving that I got home safe and sound so I could crash and burn in the comfort of my own home. Joy, glad to have friends that will look out for each other when things don't necessarily go as planned. My friends had my back!

 

Thursday, 8/8/2013

 

Day 220, 8/8/2013.- Eat, had meal replacement options again so that I could enjoy dinner with friends. They were a shake, chocolate chip cookie and chocolate pudding, not bad. Not often that you eat a chocolate chip cookie that has 11 grams of protein. Met friends at the Venetian Dinner Theater, love being able to eat dinner at a first run movie, such a cool concept. Shared a cheeseburger and pork tacos with my friend, Angie. Very good, we also enjoyed delicious cocktails. We saw "We're the Millers," very funny. No photos of movie food because,  "Hello, it's dark in the movies!" Pray, prayers of thanksgiving for my friend, Angie, who found out today that she is done with chemo treatments. I still pray for her health and wellbeing daily! Joy, my joy was in spending an evening with my Mothers of Multiples group. Eight of us were able to make it, that is about 100% for us these days. My friend, Rosemary shared coupons with us for the movie tickets and meals. Low cost, good friends, movie and food. A good day!

Wednesday, 8/7/2013

 

Day 219, 8/7/2013 – Eat, another day of low calorie bars and shakes until the evening meal. Wednesday, which means dinner at Chili’s with Maddie. An added bonus of meeting two friends rather than one, Lynn and Kathy joined me. We all have our “favorites” on the Chili’s menu and today my choice was Bacon Ranch Quesadillas. I broke down and got dessert of Molten Chocolate Cake. I was really glad to have someone to share it with and that I ate lightly until this meal!! It was great to sit and catch up with each other until after 9 pm; over three hours.  We touched on every topic under the sun. Pray, prayer of thanksgiving. I have prayed for will power with regard to eating and I have been able to eat lightly during the day so that I can enjoy an evening meal with friends. I am thankful for a few days of success. “A day at a time” as they say. Joy, my joy is in having good friends to call on to talk, have a meal, enjoy a movie, etc. Good friends are so important at any time during your life. I have come to appreciate them even more during the last two years following divorce. Vacations, earned. Dinner at Chili’s, $20. Friends to share them with, priceless!