I had a blast tonight with my sister and cousin. We went down to Whole Foods in Buckhead to shop and we ate at the food bar in the store. AMAZING healthy food! I want to go back already! We have so much fun together. I enjoy the close bond that has developed between us. Family is everything to me, the true family that doesn't back stab and create constant drama.
I am reinventing myself into the person I've be longing to be for quite some time. It's time to live the life that I want. So, if that means choosing who I want to be around, well it's being done for a reason. Not too worried about whose feelings are being hurt because mine have never been considered in the past. I have learned the hard way who can be trusted and who can't.
ANYWAY....back on subject....Went drove around Buckhead.....thru the redlight district. I always get a kick out of seeing that area. :) Then, we topped the night off with Starbucks! You can't go wrong with Starbucks venti hot chocolate. A nice treat every once is a while is ok.....I guess! LOL
Until next time, have a great night! <3 br="br">
Friday, January 4, 2013
Fitness Diary: Days 1-3
The fitness log has moved to a page on the side ------->
Ok, my intentions are to make a separate page to log my fitness activity BUT my desktop computer decided that it wanted to crash again. *sigh*
So, I'm using the iPhone app to update until I can switch things around. :)
Day 1 (1/2/13): It was my first day and first time ever going to a gym. So I just kind of hopped around to figure out which machine I liked. I did walk 1.5 miles on the treadmill, and laid in the tanning bed.
Day 2 (1/3/13): I wanted to focus on cardio so I walked/ran a 5k on the treadmill.
Day 3 (1/4/13): I decided to take a day off to let my back rest. I see a surgical procedure in the near future so I can't over do it.
Ok, my intentions are to make a separate page to log my fitness activity BUT my desktop computer decided that it wanted to crash again. *sigh*
So, I'm using the iPhone app to update until I can switch things around. :)
Day 1 (1/2/13): It was my first day and first time ever going to a gym. So I just kind of hopped around to figure out which machine I liked. I did walk 1.5 miles on the treadmill, and laid in the tanning bed.
Day 2 (1/3/13): I wanted to focus on cardio so I walked/ran a 5k on the treadmill.
Day 3 (1/4/13): I decided to take a day off to let my back rest. I see a surgical procedure in the near future so I can't over do it.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Results Pending.....
I received a phone call today from Myriad, the genetics laboratory that processes the BRCAnalysis test. I was told that there was a delay due to the holidays. Really? Thanks for keeping me on pins and needles!
Well, the purpose of the call was to inform me that the lab is continuing onto Phase 2 of the test, and also to update me on the health insurance status as far as coverage goes. After the Phase 2 testing has begun Myriad is no longer allowed to contact me. I was told that my insurance provider will pay 90-100% of the cost! That's HUGE savings considering the full panel test averages at $3000! So, the most I will have to pay, if I have to pay anything, will be only $345. On top of that, Myriad offers payment plan options that will allow me to pay as little as $15/month if I choose to not pay in full. Awesome, right?
If I test positive in Phase 2, then no further testing will be needed. Either way my doctor will have the results next week sometime. The plan is to give my doctor all of next week to receive and review the results. If I don't hear from the office by Monday, January 14 then I will call them......and call everyday until she reviews the results and is ready to see me.
The waiting game continues. My nerves are shot! I'm keeping myself busy the best I can with exercise and other activities.
Many prayers are needed! I'm counting on my Prayer Warrior friends, and the select few that have been by my side through all of this. You know who you are! Love you all so much!
Well, the purpose of the call was to inform me that the lab is continuing onto Phase 2 of the test, and also to update me on the health insurance status as far as coverage goes. After the Phase 2 testing has begun Myriad is no longer allowed to contact me. I was told that my insurance provider will pay 90-100% of the cost! That's HUGE savings considering the full panel test averages at $3000! So, the most I will have to pay, if I have to pay anything, will be only $345. On top of that, Myriad offers payment plan options that will allow me to pay as little as $15/month if I choose to not pay in full. Awesome, right?
If I test positive in Phase 2, then no further testing will be needed. Either way my doctor will have the results next week sometime. The plan is to give my doctor all of next week to receive and review the results. If I don't hear from the office by Monday, January 14 then I will call them......and call everyday until she reviews the results and is ready to see me.
The waiting game continues. My nerves are shot! I'm keeping myself busy the best I can with exercise and other activities.
Many prayers are needed! I'm counting on my Prayer Warrior friends, and the select few that have been by my side through all of this. You know who you are! Love you all so much!
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
New Years Day
It all started at midnight when the ball dropped. I put the black-eyed peas into the crock pot. I managed to get about 5 hours of sleep once the excited from the new year wore down.
I always say that when we're going to have company over that I will get everything clean a few days ahead of time to reduce the stress level the day of. Nope. As usual I was frantically cleaning the kitchen while trying to cook at the same time. Thank goodness my dad smoked the pork loin the day before, and the peas were in the crock pot. The only things left to cook were the collards, boil the potatoes to smash them, and fry the okra. Those didn't take long at all to cook. While doing all of that, I managed to shower myself and Katie. WHEW! I'm completely worn out! Of course stuffing my face with all of that amazing food didn't help the energy level, along with the rainy weather. I see a nap in the very near future!
My mother-in-law came over for a visit, and to eat New Years dinner with us. I think she enjoyed herself. Thomas came over for the day as well. We chatted, watched football, and played games with the kids, and ate ice cream sundaes. It was nice.
What a great start to 2013! I'm looking forward to many more family gatherings at our home. Hey that's something I need to add to the resolutions list, entertain more often. :)
I always say that when we're going to have company over that I will get everything clean a few days ahead of time to reduce the stress level the day of. Nope. As usual I was frantically cleaning the kitchen while trying to cook at the same time. Thank goodness my dad smoked the pork loin the day before, and the peas were in the crock pot. The only things left to cook were the collards, boil the potatoes to smash them, and fry the okra. Those didn't take long at all to cook. While doing all of that, I managed to shower myself and Katie. WHEW! I'm completely worn out! Of course stuffing my face with all of that amazing food didn't help the energy level, along with the rainy weather. I see a nap in the very near future!
My mother-in-law came over for a visit, and to eat New Years dinner with us. I think she enjoyed herself. Thomas came over for the day as well. We chatted, watched football, and played games with the kids, and ate ice cream sundaes. It was nice.
What a great start to 2013! I'm looking forward to many more family gatherings at our home. Hey that's something I need to add to the resolutions list, entertain more often. :)
New Years Resolutions
Happy New Year! 2013 is going to be my best year yet! Of course it can't be New Years with the list of resolutions. I know what you're thinking, that its pretty much a list of things that I'll never do. Well guess what, I have 3 already accomplished/ currently working on! So there! :)
My 2013 New Years Resolutions:
1. Go back to school. (I'm already signed up and ready to go.)
2. Volunteer. (I'm all signed up and ready to go with the Red Cross.)
3. Run at least one 5K. (I'm registered for one in February.)
4. Walk and exercise regularly.
5. Eat sugar free and low carb.
6. Drop at least two pant sizes by December 2013.
7. Attend church with the kids on a regular basis.
8. Have a positive attitude about everything.
9. Let go of past issues. Keep a distance from people that cause them and keep drama going. I simply don't want to hear it anymore.
10. Take the time to expand my craft business.
11. Get financially stable.
12. Visit as many historical sites as possible.
13. Finish my family ancestry scrapbook.
Well, this is a start. I have a lot more I would like to add, but these are the most important. I'm wishing you all a healthy and prosperous 2013!
My 2013 New Years Resolutions:
1. Go back to school. (I'm already signed up and ready to go.)
2. Volunteer. (I'm all signed up and ready to go with the Red Cross.)
3. Run at least one 5K. (I'm registered for one in February.)
4. Walk and exercise regularly.
5. Eat sugar free and low carb.
6. Drop at least two pant sizes by December 2013.
7. Attend church with the kids on a regular basis.
8. Have a positive attitude about everything.
9. Let go of past issues. Keep a distance from people that cause them and keep drama going. I simply don't want to hear it anymore.
10. Take the time to expand my craft business.
11. Get financially stable.
12. Visit as many historical sites as possible.
13. Finish my family ancestry scrapbook.
Well, this is a start. I have a lot more I would like to add, but these are the most important. I'm wishing you all a healthy and prosperous 2013!
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Christmas 2012
We were all very Blessed this Christmas! Taylor and Katie both got everything on their wish list. I am very thankful for a loving husband who worked extra long hours to make it happen. He is truly and awesome and devoted father and husband.
Although Ian had to work on Christmas Eve, our family gathering was timed late enough for him to enjoy the fun with us. I was so glad he got off work in time. The holidays are no fun unless your whole family is there! ;)
Christmas Day was a different story. We all had to wake up at 3am to enjoy what Santa brought everyone because Ian had to leave for work at 6am. Man, that was a long day but I managed to take a nap for a few hours so it helped a little.
The girls and I went over to my aunts house around noon to have Christmas dinner. That was the best food I have eaten the entire holiday season!
We are very fortunate to be surrounded by such loving, honest, caring family. I thank God every day for my family!
Now it's time to think about the New Year. I wonder what it will have in store for me and my family? Good things I hope. :)
Although Ian had to work on Christmas Eve, our family gathering was timed late enough for him to enjoy the fun with us. I was so glad he got off work in time. The holidays are no fun unless your whole family is there! ;)
Christmas Day was a different story. We all had to wake up at 3am to enjoy what Santa brought everyone because Ian had to leave for work at 6am. Man, that was a long day but I managed to take a nap for a few hours so it helped a little.
The girls and I went over to my aunts house around noon to have Christmas dinner. That was the best food I have eaten the entire holiday season!
We are very fortunate to be surrounded by such loving, honest, caring family. I thank God every day for my family!
Now it's time to think about the New Year. I wonder what it will have in store for me and my family? Good things I hope. :)
Friday, December 21, 2012
Oh, Christmas Goodies
We've been busy making all kinds of goodies to hand out on Christmas! Red velvet cake balls, super cute Hershey kiss jars, slow cooker chocolate candy, snowman poop, and peanut brittle. YUM-O!!
I found these adorable Hershey Kiss jars on Pinterest. I love Pinterest because it helps us "idea-challenged" folks look extra crafty! :)
Anyway, here's the LINK to the original website to get the printables used. I used jelly size mason jars, but any size can be used depending on how much candy you want to buy. Three regular sized bags of kisses filled these four jars.
The peanut brittle was an epic fail. HAHA! When the recipe suggests a food thermometer, GET ONE! Thank goodness I only wasted about $4.00. I won't be trying that one again. It just wasn't a "fun" recipe to make.
This recipe is so good and so easy to make! This is a recipe by Trisha Yearwood. Here's a few tips: 1. Ignore the bad reviews. These people are morons. 2. Three hours and 25 minutes is way too long. I suggest checking it every 30 minutes. When it can be easily stirred and all of the chocolate is melted, then it's done.
My batch was ready in an hour. I spooned mine in mini cupcake liners, but you can also just spoon "globs" onto wax paper. Either way works just fine! Then put in the refrigerator to cool and harden.
I bought a pack of 100 mini cupcake liners and used all of them with a little left over for about 5 more, so it makes a lot but it's so worth it! :)
Hershey Kiss Jars
Anyway, here's the LINK to the original website to get the printables used. I used jelly size mason jars, but any size can be used depending on how much candy you want to buy. Three regular sized bags of kisses filled these four jars.
The peanut brittle was an epic fail. HAHA! When the recipe suggests a food thermometer, GET ONE! Thank goodness I only wasted about $4.00. I won't be trying that one again. It just wasn't a "fun" recipe to make.
Slow Cooker Chocolate Candy
My batch was ready in an hour. I spooned mine in mini cupcake liners, but you can also just spoon "globs" onto wax paper. Either way works just fine! Then put in the refrigerator to cool and harden.
I bought a pack of 100 mini cupcake liners and used all of them with a little left over for about 5 more, so it makes a lot but it's so worth it! :)
Snowman Poop
This one is a simple as it looks, and the kids (as well as some adults) will get a kick out it too! Put mini marshmallows in bags and make a cute bag topper. That's it! Super easy!
Cake balls will be posted tomorrow....I'm saving the best for last! :)
Here's the cake pops! So I got busy with the holiday madness and forgot to take a picture of the finished product. Grrr! Oh well, I'm making more for Valentine's Day so I will be sure to get a picture then.
Cake Pops
Here's the cake pops! So I got busy with the holiday madness and forgot to take a picture of the finished product. Grrr! Oh well, I'm making more for Valentine's Day so I will be sure to get a picture then.
Cake Pops
I hope everyone had a fabulous Christmas! We did! :)
Friday, December 7, 2012
BRCA
Today I went back to the doctor for the BRCA test. EASIEST TEST EVER! The test doesn't require blood anymore, so all I had to do was swish some mouthwash around in my mouth and spit it out into this tube. I'm not scared of needles, but it was still a relief.
So here's a little information about the testing that will be done for those of you that aren't familiar with BRCA. It's called Comprehensive BRACAnalysis Testing. It's a genetic test that confirms the presence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation which is responsible for most of the hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. The comprehensive test is done if no one else in the family have been tested. They look at everything since there is nothing to compare it too. But now that I have been tested, my family can be tested without needing the full panel because there will be something to compare.
So, what does it mean if I test positive? Well one of two things can be done. I can choose to have mastectomies, or I can choose to just monitor myself with frequent mammograms and ultrasounds.
If my results are negative then the surgeries won't be necessary, but I will still need to closely monitor myself with frequent exams. Even though tests results are negative, I will always be at a high risk of developing cancer due to my family history of breast cancer.
Like I said before, the waiting game is on. It will take approximately 4-6 weeks to get the results back. Praying for negative!!
I will keep you all updated! :)
So here's a little information about the testing that will be done for those of you that aren't familiar with BRCA. It's called Comprehensive BRACAnalysis Testing. It's a genetic test that confirms the presence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation which is responsible for most of the hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. The comprehensive test is done if no one else in the family have been tested. They look at everything since there is nothing to compare it too. But now that I have been tested, my family can be tested without needing the full panel because there will be something to compare.
So, what does it mean if I test positive? Well one of two things can be done. I can choose to have mastectomies, or I can choose to just monitor myself with frequent mammograms and ultrasounds.
If my results are negative then the surgeries won't be necessary, but I will still need to closely monitor myself with frequent exams. Even though tests results are negative, I will always be at a high risk of developing cancer due to my family history of breast cancer.
Like I said before, the waiting game is on. It will take approximately 4-6 weeks to get the results back. Praying for negative!!
I will keep you all updated! :)
Monday, December 3, 2012
Doctors, and More Doctors
Today, I went in for the annual exam (You know, the one all women dread.) except I haven't been in 4 years so I got a good lecture. Ok, Ok....I deserved it....moving on!
Well the topic of this visit is breast pain and testing for the BRCA gene.
I have been so concerned here lately with some pain and discomfort that I've been feeling. Of course my immediate thought jumps to "OMG, it's cancer!", but more than likely (after being reassured by my doctor, who by the way is AMAZING!) it's more than likely due to the fluctuating hormones. Praying that it is! Plus with my family history of breast cancer, I am scheduled for my very first mammogram in mid January to make sure everything is ok. Then I will need an ultrasound of my breasts since I have a lot of scar tissue from breast reduction surgery many years ago.
Then coming up on Friday I have to come back for the BRCA test.Which that in itself is a whole other stress level for me. I have a close friend who tested positive and had surgeries, so my thoughts are "what if I have to go through all of that?". Yes, I am scared almost to the point to where I can't eat because my nerves are so bad. I just have to keep telling myself that everything will be ok.
I have also been referred to an Endocrinologist to get some help controlling the hormonal issues due to PCOS. Hair loss, unwanted hair, abdominal weight gain...yes, it's fabulous! NOT! So, it appears that I will be busy hopping from one doc to another over the next few months.
As always, I will update when I have something worth sharing. In the meantime, please send a little prayer up for me. :)
Well the topic of this visit is breast pain and testing for the BRCA gene.
I have been so concerned here lately with some pain and discomfort that I've been feeling. Of course my immediate thought jumps to "OMG, it's cancer!", but more than likely (after being reassured by my doctor, who by the way is AMAZING!) it's more than likely due to the fluctuating hormones. Praying that it is! Plus with my family history of breast cancer, I am scheduled for my very first mammogram in mid January to make sure everything is ok. Then I will need an ultrasound of my breasts since I have a lot of scar tissue from breast reduction surgery many years ago.
Then coming up on Friday I have to come back for the BRCA test.Which that in itself is a whole other stress level for me. I have a close friend who tested positive and had surgeries, so my thoughts are "what if I have to go through all of that?". Yes, I am scared almost to the point to where I can't eat because my nerves are so bad. I just have to keep telling myself that everything will be ok.
I have also been referred to an Endocrinologist to get some help controlling the hormonal issues due to PCOS. Hair loss, unwanted hair, abdominal weight gain...yes, it's fabulous! NOT! So, it appears that I will be busy hopping from one doc to another over the next few months.
As always, I will update when I have something worth sharing. In the meantime, please send a little prayer up for me. :)
Thursday, September 20, 2012
The Journey Continues....
The road to a healthier me just got a major jump start.
After trying different foods for the last few weeks, I have decided to go gluten free, sugar free, and eat only complex carbs for a little while. It was hard at first, but its all about training your brain to say no to all of the unhealthy foods.
For me, it's basically just cutting out bread and the processed foods. Oh yeah, and the chips when I go to the Mexican restaurant! That's going to be the real test!
My goal is to be below or at least a few pounds from 200 before October. I only have 15 to lose to reach that goal, but for some reason I seem to be stuck at the 212-215 range. So, I think this strict way of eating, combined with the 4-6 mile walks will do the trick! I know what your thinking. You can't believe that mentioned my actual weight. Well, you know what? It's just a number! I have come a long way to reach number I'm currently at and I'm damn proud of it! :)
What I have learned over the last six months, you have to exercise AND eat healthy if you want to see results. I didn't jump in cold turkey and I think that has helped a lot. Start out slow with new foods and recipes. Stop making excuses to exercise. You don't need a fancy gym to workout or those expensive weight loss and calorie counting gadgets that are worthless and a waste of money. If you really want to do it, you will make it happen at home or wherever you're at! I suggest downloading the free app for iPhone/Android called MapMyWalk and just start out walking around your neighborhood. You will be surprised how just walking 2 miles everyday or every other day will quickly bring in results!
Subscribe to my blog for updated results!
If you're thinking about changing your eating habits, go for it! It's not going to be easy at first, but just think about how good you will feel and look!
Good luck! :)
After trying different foods for the last few weeks, I have decided to go gluten free, sugar free, and eat only complex carbs for a little while. It was hard at first, but its all about training your brain to say no to all of the unhealthy foods.
For me, it's basically just cutting out bread and the processed foods. Oh yeah, and the chips when I go to the Mexican restaurant! That's going to be the real test!
My goal is to be below or at least a few pounds from 200 before October. I only have 15 to lose to reach that goal, but for some reason I seem to be stuck at the 212-215 range. So, I think this strict way of eating, combined with the 4-6 mile walks will do the trick! I know what your thinking. You can't believe that mentioned my actual weight. Well, you know what? It's just a number! I have come a long way to reach number I'm currently at and I'm damn proud of it! :)
What I have learned over the last six months, you have to exercise AND eat healthy if you want to see results. I didn't jump in cold turkey and I think that has helped a lot. Start out slow with new foods and recipes. Stop making excuses to exercise. You don't need a fancy gym to workout or those expensive weight loss and calorie counting gadgets that are worthless and a waste of money. If you really want to do it, you will make it happen at home or wherever you're at! I suggest downloading the free app for iPhone/Android called MapMyWalk and just start out walking around your neighborhood. You will be surprised how just walking 2 miles everyday or every other day will quickly bring in results!
Subscribe to my blog for updated results!
If you're thinking about changing your eating habits, go for it! It's not going to be easy at first, but just think about how good you will feel and look!
Good luck! :)
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Good Morning Tuesday
Good morning! I thought I would take advantage of this free time to blog a little. It's been a few weeks since my last post. :)
It's a rainy day here in Georgia. That can either be a good thing or a bad thing. Good because I won't be out and about, and bad because I'll be tempted sleep all day.
So, it's good so far. I'm sitting at my friends kitchen table with the hot glue gum fired up and ready to make some beach sand ornaments. I'm hoping to avoid the urge to take a nap. After staying in bed all day yesterday with body aches and a fever, I'm pretty sure I am well rested and will stay awake. I feel so guilty when I'm sick in bed. It makes me feel like a bad mom. I was to sick to even cook dinner. Ian had to go buy McDonalds for dinner. That was totally against my healthy eating rules, but I was so sick I didn't care. That's how bad I felt. Anyway, today is a new day and I can start off the day right!
Well, the glue is dripping out of the hot glue gun. That means that it's ready to go! Time to get crafty!
Have a fabulous Tuesday! <3
Brandy
It's a rainy day here in Georgia. That can either be a good thing or a bad thing. Good because I won't be out and about, and bad because I'll be tempted sleep all day.
So, it's good so far. I'm sitting at my friends kitchen table with the hot glue gum fired up and ready to make some beach sand ornaments. I'm hoping to avoid the urge to take a nap. After staying in bed all day yesterday with body aches and a fever, I'm pretty sure I am well rested and will stay awake. I feel so guilty when I'm sick in bed. It makes me feel like a bad mom. I was to sick to even cook dinner. Ian had to go buy McDonalds for dinner. That was totally against my healthy eating rules, but I was so sick I didn't care. That's how bad I felt. Anyway, today is a new day and I can start off the day right!
Well, the glue is dripping out of the hot glue gun. That means that it's ready to go! Time to get crafty!
Have a fabulous Tuesday! <3
Brandy
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
First Week of School
Yay! We survived the first week of school! :) We're still getting adjusted to the early schedule after sleeping in all summer, but everyone seems to be doing ok. Only one "crabby patty" incident so far. :)
Katie loves her teacher and being in the second grade. She's a little nervous about adding in spelling and vocabulary words, but she's a smart cookie. I know she will be just fine. :)
Taylor has jumped right into FFA activities. Taylor is an officer in training, which means that she will be involved with everything in FFA. She is pleased with her classes and teachers, which is a huge relief!
I hope and pray both of my babies have a great year of school! I love them so much!
Katie loves her teacher and being in the second grade. She's a little nervous about adding in spelling and vocabulary words, but she's a smart cookie. I know she will be just fine. :)
Taylor has jumped right into FFA activities. Taylor is an officer in training, which means that she will be involved with everything in FFA. She is pleased with her classes and teachers, which is a huge relief!
I hope and pray both of my babies have a great year of school! I love them so much!
Thursday, August 2, 2012
KISS & Mötley Crüe
KISS and Mötley Crüe totally kicked ass! Best concert I've seen on a long time!!
Tommy Lee spinning around upside down while playing the drums was cool! Gene Simmons with the blood capsules in his mouth shaking his tongue and head making the blood go everywhere. That was pretty gross, but cool at the same time. Paul Stanley has an annoying yankee voice. Sorry, but that's just my opinion. Overall, KISS put on a fantastic show. The lights and pyro were awesome!
It makes it even better when you have awesome concert buddies! :) Thanks girls, for the crazy night!
Tommy Lee spinning around upside down while playing the drums was cool! Gene Simmons with the blood capsules in his mouth shaking his tongue and head making the blood go everywhere. That was pretty gross, but cool at the same time. Paul Stanley has an annoying yankee voice. Sorry, but that's just my opinion. Overall, KISS put on a fantastic show. The lights and pyro were awesome!
It makes it even better when you have awesome concert buddies! :) Thanks girls, for the crazy night!
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
50 Shades of......OMG!
I have finally jumped on the 50 Shades bandwagon and it is fabulous! My brain has never been so consumed by a book like this. Ever. I can't put the book down. I'm so hooked on Christian Grey. His mysterious, sexual ways intrigue me. Now, Dom/Sub isn't my cup of tea, and I can't imagine letting a man take control of me like that, but a little voice deep down inside wonders "hmmm, what if...?". I can't wait to read the next book to hopefully learn more about Christian. I can't get enough of this man!
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