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Friday, December 28, 2012

Rest in Peace, Grandma

The holidays will never be the same.

 
 

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Merry Christmas 2012

Saturday, December 22, 2012

#Visionboard2012 Revisit: Items 15 - 24

In a few hours, I'm driving my family up to NYC for the holidays, so to save time I'm combining the last items from my visionboard in one post.

So, let's get to it.

Live in the moment: I have a tendency to focus on the destination instead of enjoying the journey. This year I was more conscious of being present in my day to day activities, conversations, and experiences. I must say that arriving at the 'destination' was wonderful, but the 'journey' to get there was much sweeter.

Be more active in the Social Mediaverse: Facebook is been my social media go-to site. I've been on twitter (@lizzieonthespot) for years, but I wasn't as active as I should be. The strange thing is I enjoy Twitter ALOT more than Facebook -- when I'm actually on. I also posted more photos on Instagram. Next year, I want to Vlog. Look for my Youtube channel in early January.

Lose 100lbs: I lost 69 instead. I'm still pleased. :)

Take a Pole Dancing Class:  Maybe next year.

Friday, December 21, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: Hair Challenge

I've been natural since 2006, and it's been fun.
I have to admit that I do get bored at times, and look for different ways to style my hair. Earlier this year, I found a stylist and wore braids for a few months. Then I opted to wear my hair in two strands, twist outs, and in an afro. You know  -- same ol' same ol'.

Then in November, I did it again.

I big chopped.

 

Thursday, December 20, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: $ave Money

{Sigh}
Maybe next year.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: Be Healthy!

Still in progress, but I'm trying.
Working out more is definitely easier for me.
My struggle is (and has always been) the food.
Why does food have to be so DAMN good?!?!?

Check you later -- Off to a work luncheon.

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: No Stress

It's almost 4:00am, and I'm waking up in Dallas, TX feeling quite blessed.

Here's why.

During 2010-2011, stress could've been my middle name. I spent a lot of time being frustrated over the smallest things, moaning about what was going wrong, and dealing with grief of my father's passing. I wasn't in a good headspace.

Stress took a toll on my life. I was grouchy, ate ALOT, and even suffered hair loss. (Definitely not a good look.) lol.

As I reflect over the past year, I'm so grateful to have experienced "good" stress moments. Sure, there were the occasional WTH moments but overall I'm glad that I was able to keep the negative stress at bay.

 

Monday, December 17, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: #OperationRena

This is still in progress.
Sweat, gumption, and inspiration are on deck.
Here's to 2013. 
 

Sunday, December 16, 2012

Saturday, December 15, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: Maybe next year

"Start the Doula Certification process."
I didn't start on this process at all. I did, however, print off the needed documents a few days ago, and will plan for 2013. *fingers crossed*

Friday, December 14, 2012

#visionboard Revisit: Blog More

In 2011, I had 26 posts.
In 2012, I have 126 posts to date.
Yeaaaaaaaah Buddy.
 "Hi, I'm Lizzie and I'm a blogger." lol.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: Volunteer

Done!

Discovering Girls on the Run was definitely a highlight of my year. I enjoyed my time with the girls...so much that I went back for the winter season and ran as a running buddy with my favorite 8 year old.

 

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: 9 + 1

"Qualify for guaranteed entry into the ING New York City Marathon via the 9 + 1 requirement."

I'm IN for 2013!


Volunteering at the Manhattan Half-Marathon


Gridiron Classic + My Birthday
Al Gordon
AHA! Wall Street Run
More/Fitness Half-Marathon



NY Mini 10K
 
 
 



Bronx 10 Miler
Back to NFL Run
Poland Spring

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: Maybe next year!

"Meet Lamman Rucker for a third time."

Yes, I did. Yes, I made Lamman Rucker a part of my vision board this year. If you know me, then you understand how much love I have for this actor. So, this goal makes perfect sense.

In my mind, it was quite simple -- I would go see the Off-Broadway play "Black Angels over Tuskeegee" a second time. The cast comes out after the finale, takes photos, and chats with the fans. It's was a win-win.

Lamman was set to star in the September 9th show, but for the life of me I could not bring myself to purchase tickets.  For one, I knew I wanted to see the show with my mom later this year, and secondly, I didn't want to come across as being 'stalkerish'. lol.

So, I didn't go through with it. Instead, I sent a "Happy Birthday" instagram tweet on October 6th using the photo below.

FYI - if you've not had a chance to check out "Black Angels Over Tuskeegee", you must. It's great!
 

Monday, December 10, 2012

To my epitome of greatness...

 

I miss and love you dearly.
Continue to rest in peace.
xoxo, your oldest girl


#vision2012 Revisit: Maintain/Connect


 
"Maintain relationships with friends and loved ones. Make new connections."
 
Looking back on this particular goal, I'm pretty sure I used "maintain" as a euphemism. I probably thought that cut off, release, end sounded way too harsh and negative.
 
Even as I re-read the sentence, I think I subconsciously knew that I needed to rid myself of stagnant relationships. How do I know this? I wrote make new connections and I often found myself feeling {insert emotion here} when:
  1. there was a lack of (or no) communication
  2. I only heard from a person when something was needed 
  3. I called, left a voicemail and received a "What's up/How are you?" text after hanging up. {blank stare} 
  4. I receive a message asking if everything is okay, because I haven't updated my FB status lately. {side eye}

Sunday, December 9, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: "Aspire to Inspire"

"Aspire to inspire" came about after a conversation I had with a dear friend. She told me "Liz, you don't inspire me by what you're saying. You inspire me by what you're doing."

This exchange only confirmed what I already knew about myself: "I aspire to be a "be about it" person. I don't want to sit back and talk about what I could be doing. I want to actually do it. If this inspires, someone -- great! Let's connect and inspire each other."

Over the course of the year, I've connected with some amazing people! It's definitely an "iron-sharpens-iron" situation, and I'm so happy about that. :)

Saturday, December 8, 2012

#visionboard2012 Revisit: "Learn how to swim"

Looking back at my previous post about my first swim lesson, I laughed after reading the following:
"Now to be quite honest with you -- I'm a fan of the water. I love being in the pool. However, I begin to feel some sort of way when my feet can't touch the bottom of the pool. I hope to overcome this fear during the next 8 weeks of lessons."  
This was quite funny because here I am ten months later and I STILL feel the same way.

Friday, December 7, 2012

#vision2012: Revisited

As this year comes to an end, I've started brainstorming for my 2013 Vision Board. I'd be remiss; however, if I didn't revisit my #visionboard2012.

For each day leading up to the end of the year, I'll provide an update on a goal I set for myself this year. Did I succeed? Did I fail? You will soon know.

My new #visionboard2013 will be revealed on January 1st. In the meantime, get ready for my first revisit -- Learning to swim. It's coming up tomorrow.

Good night, All!

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

#picstitch


M the Superstar!

5:00am comes early.

Luckily, I managed to get up before my alarm went off. 

Today was the BIG day. I was headed to Washington, DC to serve as M's run buddy. Now, if you recall, I posted my sheer excitement about this event, and in just a few hours, it was about to ON like popcorn.

I decided to take the 7:30am Bolt Bus to DC. The fare was reasonable ($48 r/t) and the ride was  comfy. We arrived at Union Station around 11:45am. M and her mom picked me up and we headed to Anacostia Park for the race.
  
It's wonderful to see all of the young runners getting ready for their event. From the tattoos, face painting, Happy Hair, and sign making areas - Girls on the Run knows how to make the girls feel special.

M's team had so much energy and personality. They were chosen by Olympian Julie Culley to go on stage and present a cheer. M was TOO excited about that.


Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Instagram Round-up

Joined @TheBigGirlBlog for #CurvyCardioNYC

It's okay -- I ran.

Tiff and I after our morning run.

State Championship - CHECK!




Monday, December 3, 2012

Hello Denver!


I can finally check Denver off of my travel list. 
I traveled there last month for work and had a grand time.
Below are a few photos from my visit. 
Enjoy!
 

An LGA Breakfast


 
First stop - Chick-fil-A

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas

Dinner at Tamayo with the Henfields

Sunday, December 2, 2012

Funny Ish

I ♥ Youtube. #thatisall



Elevator Prank in Brazil


Dog fetches Cat

Saturday, December 1, 2012

It's December Already?!?!

 
 
Only 31 days until the New Year! Let's make 'em count. :)
 

Friday, November 30, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 30

"With the 5th anniversary of my dad's death approaching, I can't help but to reflect and thank God for blessing me with two amazing parents. They are a constant source of encouragement, love, and inspiration. They provided me with a strong foundation of love, stability, and a few whoopings here and there. :)  I'm forever grateful for to be a product of M & T."

Thursday, November 29, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 29

"I am thankful for my three loves Lola, Roman, Jonas. They bring so much joy into my life."

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 28

"I'm thankful for good health."

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 27

"I'm thankful for discipline, strong work ethic, and consistency."

Monday, November 26, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 26

 "I'm thankful for a close relationship with God."

Sunday, November 25, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 25

"I'm thankful for the Holiday season. Bring on the music and decorations."

'Tis the Season: My take on visiting NYC during the Holidays

Since I live in the city that never sleeps, I'm often contacted by friends and family who are visiting during the holidays. It is my goal to help them plan a great trip to the city. (It's the concierge in me!)

At any rate, I wanted to share with you the information that I pass along to them. In a future post, I will talk about scoring great hotels and airline tickets via Priceline, as well as other options you can use when traveling.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Things to Do


Saturday, November 24, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 24

"I'm thankful for discernment and gut instinct. When I try to see the best in a situation or someone and overlook a red flag or two, I'm 'checked' instantly."

Past/Present

                      November 24, 2011                              September 14, 2012                     
 
A year ago today, I was in Brooklyn to take part in my first ever Turkey Trot 5 mile race. It would be my first official Black Girls Run! group race, and my second race in 2011. 
 
A year ago, I was at a 17-18 minute run/walk pace. I was able to do at least 2 miles in the weekly group run, and now I was aiming for five?!?! I've always been a sucker for a challenge. 
 
A year ago, although I'd came down from 320, I was still heavy -- 293lbs. My diet was in shambles and I was in desperate need of change. 

A year ago, my evenings consisted of late bed times and inactivity. Simply put: I was lazy as hell.

What a difference a year makes!

Today, I'm in training for my next two half-marathons coming up at the beginning of next year.

Today, I'm down 69 lbs, and I have 31lbs to go until I reach goal weight.

To date, I've completed two 5Ks, three 4-milers, one 5-miler, one 8k, four 10Ks, one 10-miler, and a half-marathon.

To date, I have ran 432 miles. Only 68 miles to go before I reach my goal of 500 miles in 2012. My pace ranges from a 12:30 to a 13:30 minute mile.

Over the course of a year, I incorporated strength training, cross fit, swimming, bikram yoga, and dance to my workout regimen. I even managed to pull my eating habits together (somewhat). lol. This has been quite the journey, and I can't wait to see what the next 365 days have in store for me.

Friday, November 23, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 23

"I'm thankful for my extended family. They've helped mold me into the person I am today."

Thursday, November 22, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 22


HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 21

"I'm thankful for half days."

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 20

"I'm thankful for my inner circle. They keep me on my toes."

Monday, November 19, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 19

"I'm thankful for camaraderie and teamwork. I have the best.colleagues.ever."

Sunday, November 18, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 18

"I'm thankful for progress. A year ago today, I was gearing up for my first race. I've come a looooooooooooong way."

Saturday, November 17, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 17

"I'm thankful for the opportunity to travel often. Travel: It's my anti-drug."

Big Chop 2.0


First Big Chop 2009

"I liked it so much the first time, I had to do it again."



Friday, November 16, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 16

"I'm thankful for a night out on a the town. Whether I'm with my girls, on a date, or hanging solo -- I'm still in awe that it's taking place in NYC. Love this place."

Thursday, November 15, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 15

"I'm thankful for friends with a generous heart and an accountable spirit."

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 14

"I'm thankful for the unexpected phone call from a dear friend -- definitely a pleasant way to end the day."

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 13

"I'm thankful for the quiet moments. It provides a time of reflection, meditation, and comfort."

Monday, November 12, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 12

"I'm thankful for the opportunity to work my dream job."

Sunday, November 11, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 11

"I'm thankful for the Veterans who serve and protect our country, both past and present."

Saturday, November 10, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 10

"I'm thankful for rest."

Friday, November 9, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 9

"I'm thankful for laughter. It's truly the best medicine."

Thursday, November 8, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 8

"I'm thankful for the opportunity to give back."

#truth


Wednesday, November 7, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 7

"I am thankful for the pavement. It's free therapy."

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 6

"I'm thankful for the right to vote."

Monday, November 5, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 5

"I'm thankful for a smooth groove and a two step. It was just one of those days."

Sunday, November 4, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 4

"I'm thankful for 'the calm' after the storm."

Saturday, November 3, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 3


"I'm thankful for past hurts, failures, and loss. For without them, I wouldn't experience (and be able to relish in) growth, happiness, and success."

Don't forget...

Friday, November 2, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 2


"I'm thankful for the opportunity to live in one of the greatest cities in the world."
 

A 5K with my favorite girl


M and I at her baptism in '04
In 30 days, I'll be traveling to Washington, DC to run with M in the Girls on the Run 5K. I can not begin to tell you how much this race means to me.

I first met M when she was six months old. Twice a week I'd travel to Stockbridge, GA to babysit M. while her mom taught class at a nearby college. I initially planned to work temporarily, but after spending one evening with that special baby girl I knew I'd do whatever I need to do to help out.

Thursday, November 1, 2012

30 Days of Thanks - Day 1


  "As this week comes to an end, I'm thankful for resiliency."
 
 

Cancelled? Say it ain't so!

It's official - The NYRR Dash to the Finish has been cancelled.
 
I need a moment.

I was looking forward to this race because it was my last one to qualify for guaranteed entry through the 9+1 program. Secondly, it's the day before the marathon, and I'd have the opportunity to run a part of the route. Call me crazy, but I LOVE that type of stuff.

Wednesday, October 31, 2012


Monday, October 29, 2012

Weathering the storm


Red Hook Brooklyn
It looks like Hurricane Sandy is making her way to the concrete jungle. Last night Gov. Cuomo suspended MTA transit at 7pm for subways and 9pm for buses. On my commute home, there were a number of riders with suitcases, backpacks, duffle bags, and groceries.

I have to admit that I've been in denial for the past day and a half. After seeing the evacuees and reading reports, I had a change a heart. My immediate thought? "Uh oh, sh*t just got real."
 

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Meeting Khalil Kain

Good morning, Wonderful People! I had to write a quick post about my dream come to life moment last night.

So, here goes....

It's Friday evening and my work day has ended. I phone my friend Brandi to see if she wants to meet for dinner. We decided on Cilantro on the Upper West Side. (The Tamarind margaritas and freshly made salsa are top notch!)

After catching up on each other lives and sharing many laughs, we pay the bill and head out. We're walking up Columbus Avenue and when Brandi places her hand on my arm and says "Isn't that the actor...?" I look over to my right. There he is sitting alone and working on his iPad.

Friday, October 26, 2012

Guess what....

photo courtesy of TomKat Studios


HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND, YA'LL!!

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Instagram Round Up

Running Runyon Canyon - Check
 
Day/Night at the @hyatt_OC. One of my favorite places to stay.


 
 #CurvyConvoNYC with @thebiggirlblog
 

Monday, October 22, 2012

Happy Anniversary, Dr. & Mrs. H!

Lizzie and the Henfields 10.22.11

Friday, October 19, 2012

I made it to Friday!



"Make it to Friday."
That's what I've been telling myself for the past two and a half weeks.
Going to work some days at 4:30am and sometimes leaving around 8 or 9 was starting to take a toll. The hardwork paid off and the event is done.
Now, I need some shut eye.
Check you later.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Where have I been?


I'm pretty sure I'm late to the party, but I definitely want to share an album that I've been listening to during my commute and work day.


Artist - Frank Ocean

Sunday, October 14, 2012

Half - Crazy!!

With 2013 right around the corner, I've started to think about the races I'd like to tackle next year.

When I created my 2012 race schedule, my only goal was to complete the 9+1 requirements for the 2013 NYC Marathon. I'm two races away from making that dream a reality, and want to set my sights on a more challenging goal for next year.

...enter in the year of the Half-Marathons!

Thursday, October 11, 2012

It's my One Year RUNversary!



 
 
 
 

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Happy Anniversary Mr. & Mrs. K!

Lizzie and the Kims 10.10.10

Thursday, October 4, 2012

BGR! Drives to End Hunger

Just landed in the ATL


Step/Repeat
BGR! NYC reppin' in the ATL

Monday, October 1, 2012

Friend Makin' Mondays: Uniquely YOU!


If you’ve taken part in FMM then you know the rules. If you’re new, please take a moment to answer this week’s question on your own blog then add your link in the comments section here at: www.alltheweigh.com so we can all see your FMM questions and answers. Please invite your blog readers to add their links here too so everyone has to opportunity to be seen. The idea is to connect with other awesome bloggers so take a moment to post your own FMM post and comment on a couple of other posts. Now it’s time for this week’s topic!


Foodie Penpal Reveal: Taralyn from Utah

 
Nothing says Hello Monday like a #foodiepenpal box! I learned of the Foodie Penpal exchange by reading @cherielianne's post on Cherie Runs This.  This great idea was created by The Lean Green Blog!
 

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

#runnerdphotoaday

Today's word is INSPIRE!


A few blogs that #inspire me. #fashion #psplife #running