Weight Watchers Here I Come!

I've had it! Today is the day that I finally get back on track. After losing more than 30 pounds on Weight Watchers in high school, I am convinced that the program works and is maintainable!

After getting a little lax with my eating around the holidays, and using my illness/medications as excuses for weight gain and not working out... I'M BACK!

I don't particularly care for my jeans being a bit more snug or seeing myself in unflattering photos. Not to mention I am a bridesmaid in my best friend's upcomign wedding, so enough is enough! Hello motivation!

Last night, I wrote out my weight loss goals and taped them to my bathroom mirror. Every single goal has a realistic date next to it. When each goal is conquered I get a wonderful non-food, indulgent reward.



Don't I look happy shopping for new clothes? ;)

While I was at it, I also dug out my old Weight Watchers point slider and packed my lunch ahead of time. I threw out any candy and junk food and am ready to do this thing for real... I want my cute little body back!

I am not exactly sure where this motivation is coming from (perhaps that AMAZING photo of Jennifer Hudson?? Wow!), but I am going to do it. I was well on my way this summer and then I let life and excuses get in the way.

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So here I am standing before you, blog friends, declaring my ultimate goal. I will be 34 lbs. lighter by June 17th.

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Yes, that felt good to say. Finally, I feel like I have accountability in place and now I'm just excited to finally get to my goal! With the help of a few close girlfriends - Thanks Karen & Linds! - I know I can do this!


Are any of you gals out there Weight Watchers veterans? Anyone had a successful weight loss? Please let me know and offer some great tips!


I may even start featuring a weight loss success story each week and it could be YOU! Looking to join me in my efforts? Stay tuned for weigh-in Wednesday next week and we can do this together! Also, scroll down at the bottom of the post for a 25% off coupon for Weight Watchers :)


Bring on the bikini bod!





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PS- Interested in joining Weight Watchers? There is NO ENROLLMENT FEE right now, so you're only paying the cheap weekly dues!

PPS- Even better? Click HERE to get 25% off your first month of dues... that's only $7/week to get your weight loss started!! :)

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Gorgeous Valentine's Date Updo

It looks like I finally found some gorgeous hair inspiration for my super fancy Valentine's date this Friday! BF won't even know what hit him with a gorgeous do like this!

This how-to makes mastering a fancy side chignon look not as scary! I can handle this right?





Easy how-to directions HERE!


PS- Details and attire to be posted soon!

Mingle Monday - Blog Hop!

Greetings gorgeous gals!
It has been quite the delightful morning here in the office, but I need a quick mental break! I thought you would too, which is why Mingle Monday is here to save the day!


{ Hurray Mingle Monday! }

Whether you are a Mingle vetran or a wonderful newbie, let me personally welcome you to Mingle Monday, my weekly hosted blog hop. I couldn't be more happy that you stopped by to hang out on this fabulous Monday morning!

Who's excited to Mingle it up? Let's get YOUR blog growing!

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Let's let everyone know how much fun we're having! Please pay it forward by using the button below in one of your posts today. I can't tell you how much it MAKES MY DAY when I see posts with the Mingle Monday button in it... you guys are seriously the BEST!



<center><a href="http://megnificentlife.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/LifeofMeg/MingleMonday2.jpg" border="0" alt="Mingle 240"/></a></center>
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How To Mingle:


1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit 2 other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Feel free to answer the weekly question...

** What is your favorite sweet treat? **

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** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **






** Open until Wednesday at midnight (CST) **
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Wishing You Warm Monday Fuzzies!

Can I Get a Woop Woop?!

Happy Friday, loves!
Who's excited?? Ha, that's funny, I didn't see anyone with their hand NOT raised... time to celebrate!!

I'm pretty excited about my mellow weekend for oh-so-many reasons!



.:: MMMmmm... Ello Weekend! ::..





FRIDAY

pay day + mid-day work party + friday double date + cooking + playing board games + great company


SATURDAY

room 39 saturday brunch w/BF + trying a new workout class + vegging out + blogging + browsing Etsy + catching up on DVR + girl time + working on valentine's day secret projects (shhh!)

SUNDAY

playing with my pup + coffee date + possibly an improv dance party in my jammies + new crochet projects + baking/cooking + superbowl party with friends

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You could say I'm a little excited... is it 5 o'clock yet?? What are your fabulous weekend pallooza plans? Wishing you the BEST of the best!


Cheers to a fabulous weekend!

Let the Magic Begin!

Why Good Mornin'!!
I woke up so unbelievably happy this morning. Why you ask? Well my alarm went off and I reached my hand out of my super cozy bed, grabbed my phone, and found a message from my super sweet co-worker friend that read:


"No work... SNOW DAY!! :)"




Instant smile.

So naturally I sent a text to BF, Mom and Dad, and all my fave friends. This girl has a snow day and I am ready to do something FUN to celebrate! WOOP WOOP!

With a predicted 15-20 inches of snow, I might be here awhile! I thought I would share my snow day plans with you via these fabulous photos.










.:: Right now I am... ::.

+ in my PJs
+ snuggling with Bella Beast
+ getting ready to watch The Bachelor (Go DVR!)



.:: I am looking forward to... ::.

+ trekking to BF's house
+ making cinnamon rolls for him and his roomies
+ hanging with my friends all day
+ watching movies



.:: Today I want to... ::.

+ start my new crochet project
(did you see those headwraps up there? ;) yay!)
+ drink yummy hot chocolate
+ play in the snow
+ relax
+ enjoy my magical snow day


I am even so excited right now I can't go back to sleep, which make my little puppy monster happy! Just snuggling together in my bed!


{ Did anyone else get a snow day?! }


Have a Magical Day!





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PS- Looking for new followers or fun new blogs? Don't forget that the Mingle Monday blog hop is open until Wednesday at midnight.
Stop by and get your blog some exposure!
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Mingle Monday - Blog Hop!

Hey there, girlfriends!
Sending you the warmest of wishes from lovely KC. As I was driving in to work this morning, I heard that we are predicted to get up to 20 inches of standing snow here in the metro area... CRAZY!


{ Moving on to Mingle Monday! }

Whether you are a Mingle vetran or a wonderful newbie, lety me personally welcome you to Mingle Monday, my weekly hosted blog hop. I couldn't be more happy that you stopped by to hang out on this fabulous Monday morning!

Who's excited to Mingle it up? Let's get YOUR blog growing!

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Let's let everyone know how much fun we're having! Please pay it forward by using the button below in one of your posts today. I can't tell you how much it MAKES MY DAY when I see posts with the Mingle Monday button in it... you guys are seriously the BEST!



<center><a href="http://megnificentlife.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/LifeofMeg/MingleMonday2.jpg" border="0" alt="Mingle 240"/></a></center>
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How To Mingle:


1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit 2 other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Feel free to answer the weekly question...

** What is your ideal Valentine's Day? **

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** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **






** Open until Wednesday at midnight (CST) **
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Wishing you a beautiful week!

Date Night... Guess Who's Excited!

I seriously cannot contain myself any longer!
Why you ask? Well because the most handsome man in all the world is taking me out on the town tonight, of course!

I love date nights with BF. Whether we stay in and watch a movie in sweats, or he picks me up for a night out, any time with him is always fun!


Well tonight we plan to go see this...




Have any of you seen it yet? I know my dear friend Rachel @ Simple Little Joys said it was too funny and had a wonderfully sappy ending {my fave!}.


...and before the movie I could really go for one of these...





...and perhaps a post-movie healthy treat?





Well, one thing is for sure, he spoils me in every sense of the word. When BF and I spend time together he can make me laugh so hard my sides hurt for days. FOR DAYS.

And I love that after all this time I still get the butterfly feeling right before he comes to pick me up. And of course I am all about getting prettied up just for him - yay for a great excuse to dress up!

Now I am daydreaming about what outfit to wear... HELP!


Cheers to a fun evening!






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Don't forget to sign up for the Be My Valentine gift swap! I don't want you to miss out on all the lovey dovey, ooey gooey girly fun!

Be My Valentine - Blog Gift Swap!

Get ready for some fun, gal pals!
After hosting the super awesome Mitten Mixer mitten swap in December, I figured it was time for us to have a little Valentine's Day fun! Who wants to join me for my Be My Valentine blog gift swap? I knew you would be excited!!




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.:: About Be My Valentine ::.

Sign-up, get matched w/ a buddy, shop for a valentine care package, and swap via mail!


1) Interested? Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to be elligible.


2) Leave a comment below that includes your first name and e-mail address.


3) Also in your comment leave at least 5-10 "favorites" of yours.


Example: Meg's Faves

- Candy/Snacks:
Dark chocolate anything, Clif or Luna Bars, healthy snacks

- Magazines:
InStyle, Cooking Light, Glamour, Real Simple, Martha Stewart

- Colors:
YELLOW!, green, pink

- Hobbies:
Baking, cooking, working out, dancing, crocheting

- Girly things:
Nail polish, lip gloss, lip balm, home decor, face masks


4) I will send your buddy's e-mail address to you via your provided e-mail address. You then can exchange mailing address information once you're in contact.


5) Shop for your valentine goodies {price max: $15} and send your buddy's valentine by February 7th.


Sign-up closes on Monday, January 31st @ Noon (CST)!

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.:: Pretty Please ::.

Spread the word about the [Life of Meg] Be My Valentine gift swap! We want as many people as possible to join us in spreading the love! The picture above or the button below is for your use in a post or on your sidebar. Please add a link directly to this blog post so that your friends can easily join us in the fun!



<center><a href="http://megnificentlife.blogspot.com/2011/01/be-my-valentine-blog-gift-swap.html"><img src="http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/LifeofMeg/ValentineBlogSwap_Small.jpg"/></a></center>
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So who's totally excited?!
I know I am! I already have a vision of the super cute valentine gift that I want to buy/send to the buddy I get matched up with! Valentine's Day isn't just for significant others! My prayer is that the Be My Valentine blog gift swap helps spread love to anyone and everyone!


Lots o' Love!

I Promise This Will Make Your Day

Mornin' sleeping beauties!
I woke up to find a Facebook message from one of my closest friends that included the world's cutest YouTube video. Her message simple read:


"Without a doubt this will one day be YOUR child... enjoy! :)"

I couldn't imagine why on earth she thought of me until I clicked on the video. I almost peed my pants laughing. 100% made my morning already and I hadn't even rolled out of bed. Thank God for funny friends and awesome YouTube. May this make your day as well!

Hint: You have to watch it all the way til the end to get the full awesomeness!




Yes, that will totally be my child. So stinking cute!


As for those of you who helped me when I was in utter Valentine's idea need yesterday... a HUGE thank you! With your guidance, I think I have come up with the perfect plan!





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PS- Looking for new followers or fun new blogs? Don't forget that the Mingle Monday blog hop is open until tonight (Wednesday) at midnight.
Stop by and get your blog some exposure!
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Valentine's... HELP!

Ello loves! I hope your Tuesday is going super well so far. I had an extremely early oncology board meeting, so I have been up since 5 a.m. and have consumed 2.5 cups of coffee! Woo!

Okay, as most of you know February is waiting for us right around the corner. I cannot tell you how much I love this holiday {or all holidays in general?}.

BF and I have consciously chosen to show each other how much we love each other in sweet little and big ways throughout the year, so I am not in it for all the fuss and hub bub {don't get me wrong... this girl does like a surprise bouquet of fresh flowers or yummy chocolates}, it's just not our focus.




So... we would rather spend quality time together making a new and super sweet memory than get caught up in stressful expectations. At the end of the day I just want to spend the day enjoying life with him by my side. But this year, I need help!


{ Dear BF, I am beyond flattered that you read my blog every single day, however, this is where you need to please stop reading, Mmmkay? I sure love you though!}


I am seriously the luckiest gal, ya'll... *siggghhh*. Okay enough mushy gushy. So BF is an awesome planner and we are going to be spending our Valentine's Day celebration at one of my favorite upscale KC eateries, Cafe Trio.

He also knows that i have been eyeing these beauties for awhile and strongly hinted that i would be receiving these from Cupid :)





So my question is... what do I get him?? He is seriously so ridiculously good at present purchasing... and I love it, but I want to have a good, fresh idea too! Being the sappy girl I am, I've already done the cutesy/artsy memory book, framed photos, etc., so I need major help! Please send any ideas my way!


Thanks friends! You're seriously a lifesaver!






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PS- Looking for new followers or fun new blogs? Don't forget that the Mingle Monday blog hop is open until Wednesday at midnight.
Stop by and get your blog some exposure!
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Mingle Monday is HERE!!!

Why hello friends!
As most of your Mingle Monday veterans know, this is a little later than usual... oops! But don't worry, I have a good excuse! As most of you know I work for one of the nation's largest cancer non-profits, so I was tied up with a wig appointment for one of the world's sweetest cancer patients! She found the sassiest red wig we have, found out it was free, and is now a super happy camper! :)

{ Made my day.. life is so sweet! }

So anyway, if you are new to [Life of Meg] or Mingle Monday, may I personally say thank you for taking the time to visit! I love that you are here!

Who's excited to Mingle it up? Let's get YOUR blog growing!

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Let's let everyone know how much fun we're having! Please pay it forward by using the button below in one of your posts today. I can't tell you how much it MAKES MY DAY when I see posts with the Mingle Monday button in it... you guys are seriously the BEST!



<center><a href="http://megnificentlife.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/LifeofMeg/MingleMonday2.jpg" border="0" alt="Mingle 240"/></a></center>
_________________________________________________



How To Mingle:


1) Must be a [Life of Meg] follower to participate.

2) Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on the link to enter your blog.

3) Go visit 2 other blogs saying hello from Mingle Monday!

4) Come back to [Life of Meg] and leave an encouraging review of the blogs you visited!!

5) Feel free to answer the weekly question...

** What was the best highlight of your weekend? **

_________________________________________________

** MINGLE FAIR -- all blog & runs (not commenting) will be removed. **






** Open until Wednesday at midnight (CST) **
_________________________________________________



Have a sunshine and puppy dogs kind of day!

So Thankful... I'm a Lucky Girl

Wowzaaa my friends!
Let me just tell you that it has been a particularly rough morning for sure. As most of you have read about my recent medical issues, I was called in to the neurologist this morning to do a particularly painful EMG test. For those of you who aren't familiar with this specific kind of torture, feel free to click HERE.

Anyway, my doctor basically shocked me and stabbed my arm and leg muscles with needles for a half hour. As much as it was painful, I am glad to finally have a better view of what I am facing.

As for a possible Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, I think we've finally ruled that one out. I am being referred to a rheumatologist to continue diagnostics for Lupus or another auto-immune or blood disease. Thank you for all the messages and prayers, I love you guys so much!

Despite the rough morning, I was lucky enough to have BF by my side through the whole thing. I am not quite sure how I won the affection and love of such an amazing man, but I am so very thankful for him.




He offered a compassionate smile through the tears of the test, gave me a big hug and kiss on the forehead when it was over, and even treated me to a Starbucks {He loves me :)}.




So anyway, now I am back in the office and excited that it's finally Friday!! After having the day off to honor MLK Jr. and a snow day yesterday, I am thinking I could get use to these 3-day work weeks!

Lucky for me, Mom, Dad and Sis are driving up to visit me in good ol' KC for the weekend! Mom's birthday is on Sunday, so I can't wait for all of us + BF to go out for dinner, big girl furniture shop {wooo! More on this later...}, relax, and just have a good ol' time!


{ What fun plans do you have going on this weekend? }


From the bottom of my heart,
have a beautiful weekend!