We're Moving!

Ah, the time has finally come!  We're moving to a .com!  This blog has been a growing success, and I am eternally thankful for my loyal readers.  All of you are beautiful, fantastic creatures! I can't believe we are here, but all the hard work has been worth it. 

Just Trim The Ends  (justtrimtheends.com)

This blogger site will remain up for the time being, but all new posts and videos will be posted at the new site.  

Have a beautiful week!

A Hug or a Handshake?

This is part of a conversation told to me.  It really happened, but I won't reveal any names.  The woman initiated this conversation by calling the guy.  These two met online and had barely been chatting by phone over the course of a week.  The main mode of "talking" was done through text messages.

"Why haven't you asked me out yet?"  - Woman
"Oh, are you going to take me out?" - Man
"No, I was calling to ask you to ask me out.  Are you going to be a gentleman and ask me out?" - Woman
"You didn't let me be a gentleman and ask you." - Man

Animal Print Makeup - Go Curvy

There is a weekly online show that I watch, and love called Go Curvy.  The video below is a segment on doing animal print eyeshadow.  I thought it was so awesome, I had to share it with you all!  This would be great to try for a fun night out.  I love playing with makeup to get different colors or effects because why not, right?  

What is your favorite way to change your makeup style?

The Standard of Standards

"...I respect you, so I don't want to mislead you..."
This is part of an actual quote from someone I went out a few times, a couple of years ago. I like to be honest, and real with my readers because I appreciate your loyalty. The truth can be ugly, and can hurt regardless of how strong and confident we are.

 Take a break from watching Jerry Springer, or consuming endless amounts of booze pool or ocean side, and remember why we have the day off.  Service men AND women fight tirelessly to ensure our freedom!  Even the soldiers who are here suffering; let us not forget them either.   Go team America.

Product Review: Pantene "Repair and Protect"

I recently got a sample of Pantene's "Repair and Protect" in the mail.  I figured I would give it a shot because I love trying new products.  I know some who love Pantene too.

Did Louie Really Hit IT on the Head?

If you haven't heard, seen or watched the clip of Louis CK's show, "Louie," where the fat woman  voices her struggles with dating in great detail, you are missing an important conversation that is almost muted in our society.  The female character goes on about how her struggles encompass men almost living in fear of walking hand in hand with her, let alone dating her, because they are worried to be seen with her.  Louie's character gives off the usual physical and verbal reactions; looking around nervously, and spitting out the knee jerk reaction of, "No, you aren't fat" as a way to make the woman feel better about herself and almost convince himself that it is indeed okay and acceptable TO date her.  I don't necessarily agree with all of what the female character is saying, but I think it's important to start there.

Target's "Pure Energy" Plus Size Line Review

Target has a somewhat revamped plus size line called, "Pure Energy." Naturally, this line comes in items that are not cut well for a plus size shape (surprise).  I went to two (yes two) Target's in my area just to see if there was a variety of items for this line.  Not every store carries the same items, and both locations for me aren't far from each other.  Of course they have the usual suspects, dresses, tops, pants, jeans, blazers, blah blah blah.  Price points? When a top is almost as expensive as a dress, it's okay to skip on this collection.  I really miss the way Target used to be.

My favorite trick now at Target is waiting until their maternity clothes go on sale, and going on a small shopping spree.  My favorite time is when everything is $15 and under.  Their maternity clothes fit a lot better too, and the tops are longer.  Another gem of good news is they mark their stuff down a lot faster lately.  Take advantage of this!

Let me be clear:  not that I think plus size women are shaped like pregnant women, but until plus size retailers understand that just because a woman is plus size, she isn't built like a box, or she actually needs longer sleeves, not a wider midsection - plus size clothes will never fit well.  This also goes for some of those plus size boutiques that sell dresses that look like sausage casing.  Clothing should frame your shape, not squeeze you.

Have you tried this line from Target yet?

Every Day is Mother's Day

I hope you were all able to enjoy Mother's Day, spending it with those that meant the most to you.  Whether it was the woman who gave birth to you, adopted you, or raised you; each woman in your life is special and deserving of the title "Mother."  This, of course, extends to those newer Moms out there who are newly pregnant or  have young children.  Enjoy the ride, take too many pictures and spend as much time as you possibly can with them.  They grow up too fast, and you can't makeup for the lost time.

With all the special gifts we can exchange over any holiday, the best gift to give is self esteem.  Too many women of all ages are suffering, sometimes in silence due to not feeling adequate.  You are all capable, beautiful, smart, and worthy!  Remind yourself each day, and remind those wonderful women around you too.  Let's work hard to keep that gift going!  Fresh flowers are always a bonus too.

High Heels and High Expectations

When is it okay to make the first move?  I saw a statistic earlier about how the success rate of one dating site was shy of 40%, simply because the woman made the first move, and messaged the man first.  It prompted me to think, I wonder how often women actually do make the first move, in more situations than online dating, but also in life?  We are moving at a rapid pace in modern society where women may actually end up equal to men.  Does this also translate to the relationship world?  And, will this create new gender roles in relationships?  Will a trend of women proposing to men spike in the next twenty years?  It is entirely possible!

Remember Those Little Things

I often read articles about cleaning different items in your home and life.  It's the usual list on how to maintain the dirtiest areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and possibly the laundry room.  What about the items we use every day?  The computer keyboard, mouse, TV remotes, door knobs, handles around the house and at work, common areas?  Do we forget to clean them in our routines?  it happens to the best of us.  Don't forget about your phones and tablets either!  They are covered in bacteria, and possibly fecal matter (YEP!).  Even if you have the cleanest house, the bacteria on those surfaces can be transmitted to your body making you or loved ones sick, or sicker.  Not to mention, that acne breakout you are suffering through might actually be caused by using a dirty cell phone.  It's true.  Below is a quick guide on when and how to maintain cleaning the little things. 

Product Review: Dove "Purely Pampering" Shea Butter Body Wash

I bought this on a whim because my usual Dove product was out of stock.  I have to say it made my skin feel incredibly silly soft.  You know, "like buttah."  I have no clue if this is a seasonal item or a short term trial product, but I am glad it crossed my path.  After using it, I didn't feel the need to apply much lotion either.  I have been only using it a few days but out of 7 days, I will break up the routine with a body scrub body wash.  I wouldn't want all the shea butter to clog any pores, which does happen.  Body acne and blackheads are no joke! 

How often do you change from your usual routine?  

Which products do you like to throw in from time to time? 

Every Day Is Earth Day

Every day should be Earth Day.  We should always be aware of maintaining the world around us, and preserving it for the next generation.  Instead of just planting a tree today, donate throughout the year to plant trees and start your own garden.  It’s not just a trend, it is your way of making a positive impact on our vast earth.  We only have one, let’s protect it!

What are some of the things you do in your area to preserve and protect?

Try Something New: Kiyonna

Aren't we tired of shopping endless stores and racks looking for that perfect outfit for an upcoming event?  I know I get tired of it.  Spring is here and that means cleaning out closets and looking to freshen up your closet.  Kiyonna (sizes 10+) has  a nice selection of Spring styles for you or a loved one.  Don't forget they make great gifts! 

Whimsy Wrap Dress

This comes in 5 great colors that will show off your curves.  The ruffled edge makes it sexy, yet playful.  This is great for a wedding, shower, date night - whatever.  That deep V neckline is great for a statement necklace or bold earrings. 

Marie Mesh Top

This is a great item to dress up or dress down.  Jeans? No problem.  Under a blazer? No problem.  Have fun with it and it's 3 great colors!

Valentina Illusion Dress

I absolutely love this dress!  It's a definite WOW factor in all 4 colors they offer!  

 

 

How are you dressing your Spring? 

 

 

Weekend Adventures

I hope you had a great, safe, and adventurous weekend!  Saturday night I visited the restaurant Divan Turkish Grill.  It has a small intimate feel, hookah, great food, and drinks.  It's also a BYOB!  You can't beat that right? It's located right off 6th and South Street in South Philly.  If you're in the area traveling or live there and are tired of the usual, check them out.

Product Review: Suave Moroccan Infusion Body Lotion

I got a free sample of Suave’s Moroccan Infusion Body Lotion recently and I have to say it’s amazing.  It moisturizes very well, light weight on my skin, and you don’t have to use a lot to achieve results.  This winter has been harsh on my skin and my elbows and feet have suffered, but this product has made both areas, and all my curves  feel smooth again.  They also have this product in a body oil spray that I haven’t tried that yet.  I’m sure that would work just as well, especially for the price.

Just Another Fitness Fad?

I am tired of all the gimic-y fitness things going around lately.  Currently, there seems to be a market for owning your own fitness company, selling shakes, and promoting a “clean” lifestyle.  It’s all well and good but let’s look at the reality of the fitness movement – some of these folks use crash diets or various forms of starvation to achieve such results.  Where is the emphasis on being healthy?  Why is there so much  judgement on those who don’t “look” healthy?  I think it’s disgusting and disturbing that such hate is spewed out on women and men who don’t fit into a certain ideal or size.  It’s time to take back your voice, power, and your health.  It’s time to take back your time in the sun.  I think the first step is realizing the reality of your health and fitness level.  I will break down each section to open up the dialogue on what it means to have a realistic fitness plan.

Product Review: Eucerin "Professional Repair"

I received the sample in the mail of Eucerin’s Professional Repair lotion.  It’s marked for extremely dry skin, so I used my tiny sample on my elbows and what was left on my heels.  I did not find that it lived up to its name.  My skin on both areas was not any more repaired than when I use my Target store brand lotion that is geared toward dry skin.

The Eucerin product retails around $7 in both powerhouses of Target and Walmart for 6.8 fl oz.  That is just crazy really.  It’s not gold, it’s lotion.  My 32 fl oz bottle of lotion retails around $6, and I get it from Target.   I won’t be making a switch any time soon.  I found something that works great for my winter dry skin.

What are you using that works for your skin?

Those Two Magic Corners

With Winter finally coming to a dramatic close this past week, we are left with the memory of bitter temperatures, snow days, and potholes.  It can be a very frustrating season for some people for various reasons.  Not much sunlight, shorter days, very cold days, getting snowed in, running out of bread, milk, and eggs can contribute to forms of depression.  What about those who find this season emotionally draining?  For some, it’s hard to find happiness getting through the holidays, even with an army of family around.  Are you making time to exercise those important muscles?  I’m not talking about your quads or some latest fitness fad.  I’m talking about your smile.

Newest Cool Find

I found this ring  at this small flea market style sale earlier today.  It was the best $5 I have spent lately.  It just goes to show you never know where you will find unique items.  Meow.

On and Off Again?

It is a reality that in our modern age that meeting that special someone may require an internet connection.  So many people  are just too busy to get out there and meet people the old fashion way.  I know a lot are also tired of meeting people in the bar/club setting, and don’t feel you can easily meet someone at the grocery store.  I will agree that meeting someone in a bar is likely to not end well.  Drunk decisions tend to not be the best decisions.  That is why I feel there are a lot of positives and more possibilities to meeting people online.  You are able to get a feel of who they are, their interests and goals faster than meeting once and having intermittent phone conversations and endless text messages that seem to go nowhere.  But what happens when those online relationships never get off the ground?  They go in circles for a variety of reasons, and can sometimes go on for what feels like forever.

I do feel that with keeping that distance between two people, it is a safety net for one or both parties.  There is minimal risk in getting hurt if all you two are doing is trading words typed through a computer for what feels like ages.  I also feel that sitting behind a computer gives some a sense of confidence that they would never have in person.  They would never have the guts to talk to the woman of their dreams or the man of their dreams if they encountered them in a bookstore, grocery or a bar.  They would have missed that chance entirely over their own insecurities and fear.  Who wants to be rejected?  It’s not a nice feeling at all for anyone.

What about the other side of modern dating with this influx of online dating?  The disturbing amount of people who are either married or are already in committed relationships with other people that pretend to be single?  It can be very obvious when you encounter a married man or woman.  They usually aren’t looking to get serious in any way possible.  They want to meet up in areas that are not local to where they live, or where they may run into someone, or they only want to spend time at your place.  The flip side, they will only want you on their time and the “relationship” may not materialize in the real world.  They are always too busy for you, and refuse to make time. These people use all available dating sites, free or paid, trolling for whatever they can find.

Tips to avoid pitfalls:

• Utilize Google Search:  Most people are not crafty Bond villains and use the same screen name for just about everything  – even personal and professional emails.  If you have met someone who you think is the bee’s knees, check them out.  Empower yourself with knowledge so you aren’t just another notch on their belt.
• Is there really chemistry?:  Be mindful of who you are talking with.  If they immediately are demanding you send them endless pictures of yourself, some of which are semi nude, drop them.  It’s disrespectful and they are only after one thing – plus you aren’t the only one they are engaging with in that manner.  Look for that natural flow of conversation, even if you are only talking about something simple.  If you click, let it grow.
• Real Time Dating:  When you first meet someone, you should look to connect in person as soon as possible.  Let’s break this section down first.  If he or she is coming off as a creep, do not bother with them.  If he or she gives you a bad vibe, do not bother with them.  Are you getting the idea?  Use your better judgement.  People give neon sign like clues about who they are.  It is up to you to read them.  Learn to ask them questions about who they are and what they are looking for in the long run.  When I say connect in person as soon as possible it should be in a very public location and it should be very casual.  Why get stuck through an entire dinner with someone you don’t actually like?  Don’t get mixed up with someone who would rather waste your time than work to build a life with you.  You are important and your time is just as important.
• Practice safe sex:  I can not stress this enough!  Condoms are a lot cheaper than raising a child.  Plus, you won’t have to take a pack of condoms to court over child support or custody issues.
• Are you happy?:  It is a simple question.  Does this person make you happy?  Do you look forward to your conversations together or spending time together?  If yes, then great!  I wish you all the best.  If not, start preparing for an exit.  Life is just too short to continue going around and around again.

There is a lot of truth to the saying if someone is serious about you, they will make it known and they will make plans with you in both the long and short term.  This is true for any medium of where you can meet someone.  Remember to take care of yourself before you start losing it to someone else.  Be aware, be empowered and let love find you, not the other way around.

Lent Your Way?

This year is really flying by!  I can’t believe we are already in March and it’s time for Lent.  I am not Catholic in any way but I have always been fascinated by how Catholics and the, “I’m only Catholic on holidays” Catholics celebrate this religious process.  The basic concept is denying yourself something for 40 days in an effort to draw you closer to God.  It’s not Biblical but it is what they believe.  I have yet to meet someone who hasn’t broken Lent within a week or actually avoided eating meat on Friday.  I wanted to take this a step further to see if people can go without something important to them for any time period all in an effort to draw themselves closer to God?  There are so many things we do on a daily basis that are such a habit that we don’t even realize we are doing them.  Humans are ritualistic and forget to function on thought sometimes because it takes too long to break cycles.

What if we challenged ourselves to spend a few days trying something else?  Doing something new or letting go of a vice that may be killing us in an effort to pull closer to God?  And for those who don’t or refuse to believe in God, doing all the same just to find some peace of mind or clarity?  I am not saying to do this for 40 days at a time but start small.  If you smoke, go a full day without cigarettes.  If you are a heavy drinker, cut back to once a week.  If you have a gym membership that you barely use, make an effort to start going once a week.  There are very big and small ways in our lives that we can make changes to find balance.  It all comes down to if we are willing or not.  I have challenged myself to get a lot of the stuff done around the house that needs it before it gets too warm outside.  I like to do yard work in late Winter/early Spring versus trying to hump around all summer in the heat.  I want to fully enjoy Summer this year.  My smaller more personal goal, not just for 40 days, is to spend more time each day with God.  I have found myself doing too much other stuff and then realized it’s just stuff.  I felt empty.

What will you be inspired to do?  Maybe it is time to let go of those old pains, get that big final cry out?  Maybe it is time to try something new – almost anything new!  Cliff diving in Mexico might not be your thing but wearing a dress for the first time in years might be your start.  Going on that first date, deciding to take things to the next level, planning to get married or working toward making your relationship or marriage stronger versus throwing in the towel, or remembering why you have always loved that person no matter what and finally making your lives become one.  It is never too late for any of this.  You are the starting point.

Whether it is for Lent, one week or one day, you should strive to cut away the old bad habits.  That is the only way new and positive habits  will enter your life and stick around.  What will you try today?

Be a Mentor ?

When we hear this word, it usually sparks the idea of volunteering to help young kids who need it.  Whether it is emotional, spiritual, physical, or torturing, there are a lot of kids and adults out there who are struggling.  They find it hard to stop the feeling of  drowning in life’s issues.  Being a mentor can be a great benefit to just about anyone – age is not a determining factor.  I know a lot of adults who could benefit from having a mentor in their life.  Sometimes you lean on a parent or other family member,  but sometimes it is good to have a more objective person who will tell you the things you need to hear that you may not be ready to face.

There are a number of great organizations that are already in place such as the Boys and Girls Club of America   and Big Brothers Big Sisters – These are just two of many places that are a great starting point if you are interested in giving back to the community.  When you visit their sites you can explore the other connections they have.  Also, do not forget about your local seniors.  A lot of nursing homes welcome volunteers to read, spend time with them or initiate crafts.  There is a lot to learn from the elderly community, and a lot of them barely get visits from their own family.  You could be the reason they feel vibrant again.

What about those 20-somethings you know who are trying to start their adult life?  How about those 30-somethings who may have to start over?  The 40-somethings who have put off life and are rushing to begin again?  The 50-somethings who are finding love again in various new areas of their life?  The 60-somethings who are fighting the big R word (retirement)?  The 70-somethings who have finally found peace?  And the 80-somethings who have realized that living is the best part of life that gets lost over the years?  There are so many facets of life that we often struggle with and feel alone in even among the closest of friends.  It can be hard to ask for help but it can be the most rewarding, even life changing in some instances.

I invite you to consider something.  When we put our own swords down, it is then we realize the weight we were carrying.  When you are busy helping others through their struggles, you realize how to prioritize your own things.  This is not to say we should ignore ourselves,  but sometimes we often get too buried in our own crises that we don’t see how to crawl our way out.  It causes a shield of ignorance.  I feel that helping and inspiring others to make the most of what life has to offer gives me purpose.  I feel that the more we band together, the better we all will be in the long run.

If you know someone who need something, reach out to them.  It could be someone to vent to, someone in need of career advice or what kind of flowers are right for their wedding.  Don’t place limits on things that don’t require one.

Help others.  Encourage others.  Love others.

Winter Cute?

The hardest part about winter is looking cute.  The only benefit is the low humidity and cold air, so your hair style will last longer.  After that?  It’s not so grand.  We are constantly wrapped up in layers, gross snow boots, and hats.  I have found that when it comes to sweaters, whether it is a turtleneck or other various sweater styles, the best way to dress up the outfit is big, bold statement jewelry – especially bold necklaces!

My favorite place to buy jewelry is Burlington Coat Factory.  They have a very wide selection and low prices so you won’t feel guilty splurging.  If something breaks, gets lost or stolen it’s no big deal.  I have found some cute stuff at other stores but it’s so hit or miss that they aren’t worth mentioning.  I usually try to avoid those house party companies.  You know exactly what I’m talking about.  The items that cost an arm and a leg when the quality is no where to be found.  If you are going to spend a lot of money for jewelry, be sure that the price is on par with the quality, clarity and design.  I see a lot of women who claim their stuff is top notch but I can tell it’s just expensive costume jewelry.

These are some of the items I own that I break out from time to time.  They are big, bold and always start a conversation.

Great pearl necklace for all seasons.  Found at Burlington Coat Factory.

Turquoise necklace that can either be casual or dressy.  I love wearing it more in the Spring and Summer than other times in the year.  Also found at Burlington Coat Factory.

It’s not always you can find green jewelry.  It’s original and can work for a  dressy outfit or something more casual.   Another BCF find.

I love the tiger faces! I found this at Ashley Stewart but I don’t recommend their jewelry at all.  It breaks easily and is incredibly cheap.  I only bought this because I used it in part of a Halloween costume I created.  I know if I wore it all the time it would have fallen apart by now.

This necklace can be twisted and knotted in different ways to create something unique each time.  I got this from Torrid.  I don’t usually buy their stuff but this caught my eye.

 

I always suggest getting a long strand of pearls.  They can be worn a variety of ways, and it is such a classic piece. This was another BCF find.

How are you staying cute this winter?  What are you rocking this winter?

How Do You Make It Work ?

With all of our modern distractions, how is it possible to sustain a long term relationship?  This goes for any couple, married or otherwise.

I was in a supermarket recently and saw a young couple doing their shopping together.  They had a grocery cart filled with mutual home item needs, yet the woman seem more interested in the experience than the guy.  While I was grabbing the few items I needed, I noticed  he was quick to start walking away from her, not really giving her an explanation as to why he was walking away.  It was a bit awkward to be honest.  She quickly regained some dignity by telling him she was going to be in another department.  I would venture to say she was a bit hurt by the whole exchange, judging by her body language and tone in her voice.  It made me think about what I usually ask my coupled up friends – how do they make things work in their relationship?  Even in instances as small as grocery shopping together.   I am a firm believer in comparing and contrasting experiences with other people because it is one way to learn more about yourself and your situation.  I’m not saying that you should always compare yourself and your relationships to others because that isn’t healthy.  But hey, if couple X makes special time for adventure instead of the usual go-to Netflix weekends – why not make a consideration?

What does it mean to make time for adventure?  Adventure can be as grand as multiple vacations through out the year or as simple as date nights, dance lessons, wine tasting – whatever makes sense for the two of you.  Of course life and its complications can add reasons to make you say things like, “well, not this month” or “not this year” – that’s another unrealistic roadblock.  If it’s finances that are holding you back, look into where you are spending your money.  Plan a budget at the start of each year, quarter, month and week  – if you aren’t that anal, creating a budget each month helps in planning some fun.  You will be surprised at how much you can save when you maintain an accurate budget.   There are a lot of great local things to try in most areas, especially if you live close to a metropolitan area.  There are various sites that offer ideas and coupons; just be sure to check reviews and leave reviews.    If it’s children that hold you back, work with other families that you trust to swap out babysitting duties.  It is a great low cost (if not free) idea that works for short term.  Try to not take advantage of others’ time.  It’s not right and not fair.

What if your adventure is just making time for each other?  That genuine friendship between two people, the talking, sharing and emotionally giving time?  As much as I love to be out on the town, listening to live music and dancing, I do enjoy the more quiet types of adventure.  Walking along the beach together, quiet dinners for two in dimly lit restaurants – you know, all the super romantic stuff.  I love the intimacy and getting to know more about your partner.  There are things about them that don’t change but there are a lot of things that do change as time goes on and they go through different experiences,  and it is important to keep the dialogue open, constructive and positive.  You fell in love with him or her for a reason and in 60 years, you will want to be able to readily list those reasons as to why you are still together.  Plus it is always good to share those reasons with each other.

Whether you have been together, married, living together – whatever – for 5 minutes or 5 years find out your dynamic and feed it.  Don’t let the, “oh, we can do it next month” create gaps.  Life is too short waiting for tomorrow, next month or next year.  Appreciate the time you have together now, and make the most of every moment.  Technology has caused us to not appreciate spoken word, written language, and palpable emotions in others.  We are forever waiting for that next second impulse or tone from our handheld devices to alert us of how we should feel for that brief moment.  Take the time to turn things off, set the mood and get back to what’s important:  finding what makes things work.

What are some ways you build your relationship that actually works?  What are things that you have tried that ultimately failed?

What's Your Love Song?

It is that time of year again.  You know, worrying about what to do for Valentine's Day.  Should we go out?  Should we go away?  Will he finally propose?  Instead of the traditional ways to celebrate, why not change things and create a new tradition for you and your partner, or if you are single, for yourself?  There are so many ways to celebrate that don't have to include something that is overly sexual.

Married / Long term relationship:  You had better put some serious effort into whatever you are doing.  Whether it is a nice dinner out on the town, or a special candle lit dinner for just the two of you, it needs to be something personal and with thought behind it.  You should know your partner well enough to know what they will find memorable and special.  Don't forget the flowers either and a gift.  I suggest you two hire a babysitter (if you have kids) and cook together.  If you both aren't the cooking type, enroll in a class together.  Plan to start something that will help you two grow together and just have fun.

Somewhat serious dating:  This is when you have been with the person under a year and have only recently decided to become exclusive.  This doesn't require that much of a commitment on Valentine's Day but fresh flowers and a simple gift works best.  This does not require the big ta-do, even though a lot of you expect it.  It's not fair to expect all of that from someone you have a fresh commitment with.  Valentine's Day is not a competition.

Casual daters / Single people:  If you and your current other half haven't made plans yet for the big day, don't sweat it.  In fact, I'd suggest you and your single friends go out to a singles party that night or plan to have your own singles mixer.  This is a great way to meet other singles or just make a new friend.  It doesn't have to be overly done and can simply be a pizza, beer and Netflix night.  Break out your baking tools and create Valentine's Day cookies or a cake together.  It can turn very intimate if need be.

Family Valentine's Day Party:  It is a growing trend for kids to be part of the celebration.   I know some schools still have parties dedicated to handing out Valentine's Day cards, candy, cookies and other sweet treats.  Don't stress that all the food and desserts have to be red or pink in color - the fact that you are spending quality time together as a family means more and will have a lasting impression.

Get creative this year, and don't break the bank - unless you were planning on buying that $10k ring.  There are plenty of ways to make this romantic holiday special instead of handing out a coupon book for free hugs.  It is important to remember to give and share - love is more than expectations, pressure and jewelry.

What are you planning to do this year?  Like/Comment/Share

"Excuse me sir, your garbage bag is showing."

I try to hit the gym 5 times a week for at least 45 minutes.  I am determined to not only get in better shape but maintain a healthy weight and figure since I am now in my 30s.  It is no joke that everything starts to sag, slow down, and down right go soft around this age and later on.  Yesterday I was on the treadmill partially watching some crappy TV show they have one until something caught my eye.  At first I didn't think much of it because people will wear just about anything to the gym.  I have seen a woman working out in white linen pants.  No joke.  White.linen.pants.  *sigh*  Anyway.  There was a person on a bike in the row in front of me working hard until I noticed that toward the end of the work-out he was wearing a trash bag under his shirt.  I was very tempted to ask the person if they were okay because it was noticeable that their body was very overworked after 20 minutes on the bike.  This is so unhealthy and dangerous, and I hope no one else is trying this at home!
I understand that there is a current fitness obsession that a lot of people are undergoing in the US.  Look at the sudden surge of all these fitness employees who work from home selling workout DVDs, shakes, and wraps.  I see it all over facebook and beyond.  There is a healthy way to achieve weight loss and health and there are some very unhealthy ways that can do more harm than good, if not kill you.

• Clothing matters:  You do not have to own the latest and greatest fitness clothing but it has to be able to move and grove with you comfortably as you are having fun sweating it out.  Invest in good sneakers and socks.  Your feet need to be properly supported since they absorb some of the shock from all that moving and grooving.  Also, all that sweat need to be wicked away from your foot to avoid athletes foot.  Anyone can get this - from football players to grandma power walking in the park.

• Hydrate your heart out:  No matter who you are, how big or small you are, you need to stay hydrated.  Bring a water-bottle that's huge, take adequate breaks and drinks.  I don't advocate drinking any of those smoothies or whatever people do before or after a workout.  Your body is made of water, not a protein shake.  If you are into juicing, you should be juicing through your day, not around a workout.  Gatoraid is an okay substitute but only if you are doing a serious run or weight lifting session.  I'm talking those who run 2-3 miles a day or are weight training.  The rest of us just need to replenish with water and healthy foods.

• Leave the old school ways in the past:   Yes, there used to be a time where some would sit in a steam room or sauna in sweat pants, sweatshirt with a few layers underneath just to drop 10 pounds over the course of a few days.  I know of women who still do this too but with shape=wear as well as men who practice various athletics.  It's not healthy and your body does not deserve the punishment!

• Maintain Positivity:  This is the most important aspect.  Love yourself through the entire process, respect the skin you are in and that will help in reaching your desired goals.  The moment you go negative, you are headed toward a plateau that is hard to break.

Whether you are working in a group, with a buddy or going it alone, make sure you are taking the proper steps to stay safe as to not get discouraged.  Trust the process, give it time and you will see results.  Love yourself & drink up!