PhotobucketPhotobucketPhotobucketPhotobucket

Friday, December 30, 2011

Yearly Recap: 2011

I came across this yearly recap from All & Sundry, and thought I'd give it a try. This year's recap won't
be as detailed as I struggle at trying to remember certain things, just bear with me. So, here goes:


Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I did not make any new year’s resolutions in 2011. I plan to create a vision board for 2012.
Did anyone close to you give birth?Yes, my close college friend gave birth to a beautiful baby girl.
Did anyone close to you die?My great-aunt passed away.
What countries did you visit? Mexico, Egypt, Netherlands.
What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011? A mate.
What dates from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? August 20th – Date that Baby B. was born and September 2nd – When I found out a Lil’ Kim was making an appearance in 2012.
What was your biggest achievement of the year?I’m going to say adjusting to life in the concrete jungle and creating work/life balance.

What was your biggest failure? Not sticking to my healthy lifestyle plan
Did you suffer illness or injury? Thankfully no!
What was the best thing you bought? My iPod Touch.
Where did most of your money go? Rent, travel, food, et al.
What did you get really excited about? Traveling to Egypt for a second time, visiting the Red Light District in Amsterdam, and moving into my new place in Manhattan.

What song will always remind you of 2011?
When I Wake Up” from The Light of the Sun. Artist: Jill Scott
Compared to this time last year, are you:
– happier or sadder? Happier.
– thinner or fatter? Thinner.
– richer or poorer? Does financially stable count?
What do you wish you’d done more of?More blogging, tweeting, strength training.
What do you wish you’d done less of? Stressing the small stuff...
How did you spend Christmas? With family and friends.
What was your favorite TV program? Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice, and Glee.

What were your favorite books of the year?
“The Story of the Trapp Family Singers” – written by Maria Augusta Trapp.
What was your favorite music from this year?
Raheem Devaughn’s mixtapes for sure: Jackin’ for Beats Vol. I & II, and Heemy taught me.
What were your favorite films of the year? Bridesmaids, The Help, Crazy Stupid Love, New Years Eve
What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? I took a birthdaycation cruise to Progreso and Cancun, Mexico. I turned 32.

What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
I don’t know that I have an answer for this one, really. Gimme a minute -- or two. 
How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?
Fashion concept? lol. If anything, I opted for comfort over style.

What kept you sane? Traveling, fun conversations with my inner circle, the Sims 3, and later - running.


Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.
“Never make someone a priority, when you’re just their option.”

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Scenes from the Turkey Trot 5M

A Beautiful Thanksgiving morning


 





BLING!

The Haggertys


Run and DONE
 
 
 
Happy Thanksgiving!

Saturday, November 12, 2011

by the numbers

A couple of months back, I posted my weight and measurements. It's only fitting that I do an update.

So, here goes:

November 2011
weight - 281
waist - 44
hips - 49
thighs - 51
bust - 47.5

Black Girls RUN! NYC Saturday Group Run



We rolled DEEP this a.m. 6.2 miles complete!
 

Friday, November 11, 2011

It's my RUNversary!


Today, I celebrate my one month "RUNversary" with Black Girls Run! Tomorrow, I will run with the group in Central Park, and I can't wait. What a difference a month makes. Here's to many more days of asphalt kicking and preserving the sexy.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Black Girls RUN! Thursday


Jack Rabbit Sports NYC hosted a few marathon information sessions around the city, and tonight a few of us from BGR! took part. After the session, we took off for our weekly Thursday run.
Jack Rabbit Information Session with BGR!


4.5 miles complete!


Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Black Girls RUN! Tuesday

Ready to Run...and reflecting!

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Brrrr............

On cold days, I typically shy away from doing anything active. Sleeping in or lying in my warm bed is my usual way of spending a Saturday morning. But not today. I actually decided to go for my first Saturday BGR! group run in Central Park.

When I exited the train station, I stood there noticing the light shower of rain coming down. "What on EARTH was I thinking?" was the only thought I could muster.

I crossed the street heading into Central Park and waited for the other runners to arrive.

We joked about how cold it was...(further confirming that I need to step up my winter running gear) and took off into the park for our run. I noticed that despite the chill and the rain, I felt fine. My body warmed and it didn't bother me at all.

3.1 miles later I was headed home. I survived my first cold, rainy run.

Success!


BGR! even in the rain....


Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Behind the Gates: My Best Fave's Wedding

My mom and I traveled to California to celebrate the nuptials of my fave and his beautiful bride. Here are a few photos from the weekend. There's nothing better than LOVE!

Congrats, Fave.


Bridal Party - Photo Courtesy of Callaway Gable


Sunday, October 16, 2011

the misconception

I saw this photo on FB and chuckled immediately. Why? Because I know that this is my truth (for now). I've been running for a couple of months and after chatting it up with a fellow BGR mate during a group run, realized that I've been doing it all wrong.

Friday, October 14, 2011

out of the saddle

I made it to Spin this morning. Woo hoo!
The instructor took us on one helluva work out, and his playlist was incredible. I've added a few songs to my playlist including:




What a great way to start the day. TGIF!

Thursday, October 13, 2011

the domain name

Here's a lil' secret about me - I can be indecisive at times. Add a time constraint, and whoa nelly, it's not a pretty picture.

I contemplated on whether or not I'd purchase a domain name. On one hand, it would be great to have a place where I can house all of my thoughts and activities. But, isn't that what Facebook is for? I managed to email a few domain name ideas out to my inner circle. Even through all of that, I still couldn't decide.

I wanted a blog name that encompasses everything I love: family, friends, travel, food, life and natural hair, but could work well with the title of my blog "The Liberation of Lizzie".
I didn't want to stress the small stuff at all, but by my actions, one sure couldn't tell.

So, this morning I made the decision. I went with my first choice and chose http://www.lizzieonthespot.com/.

Don't forget to save it to your favorites!

welp...

I overslept.
No spin class.
Maybe Friday.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

the workout



Tonight's workout was amazing. It included:

- The W4D3 from the C25K app for cardio.
- Upper and Lower body strength training
- A Reggaeton dance workout. This definitely 
   appealed to my "inner" dancer.

I pray I make it to my 6:45am spin class in the morning. *fingers crossed*

the group run

I've taken a strong liking to running. As a matter of fact - I might be hooked. I notice that when I run, I am able to clear my head, process the day's events, or just be alone in my own thoughts. When I don't run, I feel sluggish, stressed, and blah.

I ran my first 5k a few months ago, and it was an amazing experience. I trained using the Couch to 5K app. I would like to now work towards a 10K and a half-marathon, but thought about training differently for both. I initally set out to find a group run on meet-up, but after some googling I came across "Black Girls RUN!".

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

the 'do part deux

Earlier I posted about the new hairstyle that I wanted to try. I found the style on youtube, and after watching a tutorial I went to work. Four hours and $15 dollars later, I was finished.


My friend, A and I have been in a protective style hair challenge for the past six months and this has been my 'do of choice. I can typically wear this style for up to two months at a time. My colleague says this should be my hairstyle for the rest of my life. LOL!

I gotta admit I'm truly a fan. :) 

the UPdate: i suck

The last time I posted was 4/2011. Talk about a mess - An extreme lack of follow-through on my part.

How dare I set a goal and not accomplish it? Easy. I just "do" something and not tell anyone. I've always thought that as long as my "lack of follow through" doesn't hinder anyone then I shouldn't feel bad. As long as no one knows my goals - there's no accountability. Well, that's where I'm sadly mistakened. The reality is I am hindering someone - ME! Not having accountabilty hurts who? ME! Funny how we can sell ourselves short sometime, right?

From my earlier posts, you'll see where I had set a goal to lose some weight by the time my Fave's wedding rolled around. (Mmm....the wedding is next week.) I struggled with setting a weekly meal plan (ask me about my "stocked" fridge). I even talked about maintaining this blog. (Remember my last post was dated April '11, right?)  The truth of the matter is I did it...half-assedly. (Is that even a word?)

Yes, I lost some weight and yes, I followed a meal plan when it was convenient. I even managed to draft a number of blog posts, yet, I never published them. SMH.

I can honestly admit that I'm disappointed in my behavior. I came up with a number of excuses. I TALKED BIG, but did little. I truly let myself down. That's SO hard to admit. (Did I mention that I have an issue with vulnerability?)

So in order to BE better - I have to DO better. Simple as that.

No more excuses. Only results from here on out.

(ps - I have intentionally refrained from posting my "I'm gonnas" and have decided to just do it. You will read about it eventually.)

LET'S GO!!!!!

Monday, October 10, 2011

To two of my favorite Minnesotans....

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!
10.10.10

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

the market

The Union Square Greenmarket is one of the best markets in NYC (so, I've heard). I decided to take a visit after work this afternoon, and see what was in store.


Upon my arrival, I noticed how busy the market was. They had everything from fresh herbs to homemade cheeses to fruits and veggies to flowers.
















I was impressed with the array of vendors on hand. After scoping out the place, I decided on fresh organic spicy lettuce (yes, I wondered what it was about also), two apples, two sweet potatoes, two regular potatoes, and a dozen organic eggs. Can't wait to taste my new purchases.


Saturday, April 9, 2011

the week: April 4th - 8th

This past week, I fully devoted myself to the notion of a healthier eating and a healthier life.

For starters, I stopped drinking sodas, eating Starbucks Iced Lemon Pound cake, eating fried foods (including fries) and incorporated more water, fruits, and vegetables into my eating regimen. Now, up until this moment, I haven't mentioned food because truth is - this is will be the hardest part for me.

I haven't found an eating plan that works well for me, but I've managed to read a few books with menus. Hopefully this will be a start in the right direction.

Walking played a major role this week as well. I walked for 90 minutes for three days and 30 minutes on the other two. My neighborhood has hills (which, btw, kicked my ass) but I managed.

Sleeping for 8 hours really felt great too!

This weekend, I plan to create my food menu and grocery shop.

See you on Monday!


Wednesday, April 6, 2011

the numbers

I bought a scale and some measuring tape today. So, here are the results:

weight - 293
waist - 53.2
hips - 50.5
thighs - 55

Lawd Jesus, give me 'skrenf'. lol

Monday, April 4, 2011

the moment of truth

Lizzie in November '10. #angrybirdsondeck
The last time I stepped on a scale was in November. It went a little something like this:

Nurse: "We need to get your weight. Please step on the scale."
Me: "Sure. Should I leave my shoes on?"
Nurse: "On is fine".

I step on the scale, staring at the 350 mark.
The Nurse slides the scale thingy over to 150.
I give her a side eye.

Me: "Ma'm, go ahead and move it up to 300. I won't get offended".
Nurse: "Surely not."

She slides the smaller bar over to 50, and nothing happens.
She then moves the larger bar over 250.
Nothing happens.
Yet another side eye.

Me: "Ma'm, I'm over 300lbs. This scale won't move until you place it accordingly."
Nurse: "Well, I didn't want you to think I thought you were that big".
Me: "Ma'm, I am THAT big. No offense taken. So how much do I weigh?"
Nurse: "320lbs."
Me: "Thank you."

Now, fast foward to April 2011.

I just finished Zumba, and spotted a scale in the changing room. I walked over to the scale and instantly moved the slider over to 300lbs. Nothing happened, and I was shocked. I'm used to the scale moving up. So, then I decreased the weight to 250 and slid the smaller bar over to 46. Say it ain't so! I weighed 296lbs. I couldn't believe it. I managed to lose 24lbs without even trying.

My motivation kicked into high gear!

Imagine how much I could lose if I actually applied myself.

I'm excited to see what the next six months will bring.

Sunday, April 3, 2011

the 'do

For the past year, I've participated in a natural hair braid challenge with some other women over at NaturallyCurly.com. With the challenge coming to an end on April 1st, I browsed the internet for my next protective style.

I think I found it.




Now, I just have to teach myself how to cornrow. I plan to buy the hair and crochet needle this week as well.

Pics and vlog coming soon!

the rhythm (or lack thereof)


I'm still contemplating whether or not to join a gym. Instead I'd like to find creative ways to lose the weight and not be bound to a contract. My first thought - TRY ZUMBA!

I've heard some awesome things about this class and many of my friends rave about it on Facebook and Twitter. So, I thought I'd give it a chance.

I arrived, stood in the front of the class knowing that this will be a piece of cake.

Not so much. 

As I stood in the middle of the class, attempting each move by the instructor, I honestly thought - "Where is my rhythm? I thought I had rhythm." Truth was - While I thought of myself as a good dancer, my stamina needed work and my body hasn't been that active in quite some time.

I inched my way towards the back of the class, and was prepared to eat a piece of humble pie later.

Zumba 1, Lizzie 0

Have you tried Zumba? What are your thoughts?




Friday, April 1, 2011

the realization

"bachelorette party"
"destination: vegas or miami"
"able to attend?"

Those were the phrases that were in an email that I received a couple of days ago. In past years, I would've been elated to get that type of message. I would've started checking for vacation days, researching flights, checking out my fave websites to start shopping, and even planning the new hair 'do for said event. But, not on this particular day.

Instead of elation, I felt trepidation.
Instead of vacation days, I counted down the months until the event.
Instead of researching flights, I researched diet plans.
Instead of online shopping, I checked out online weight loss resources and workout gear.

My reality was simple - "I could not go through another year...to another event...as The BIG GIRL."

I replied that I will be attending and got to work on a plan for my new journey. I have six months to make it happen, and I plan to do so. I even managed to find a new 'do that will work perfectly through my pending transition.

Wish me luck & stay tuned!

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Welcome to the Liberation of Lizzie

Hello and thanks for stopping by!  On the Spot, On the Run and On the Plan are areas of focus where you can read about specific parts of my journey.  Stay tuned and check back soon for some more posts!!