Hypertension!

Today is the day!

2011-06-27T19:28:00.000-04:00

That’s right today is the day. What day you may ask? The day I start back on the fight against hypertension aka high blood pressure. Today is the first day back to my exercising routine, dash diet, and taking control.

You may be asking what makes this first day different than any of the other first mentioned on this blog? Well for starters, I have more than just the support of a friend or two, but a whole host of family members, friends, and hopefully you. Yes you,; why not you. We are all in this together. Statistics show there is a direct correlation between people who workout and have a work out partner . There is power in numbers and I hope to gain work out partners, supporters, and even connect with individuals who I may not know in order to encourage, inspire, and learn together. The other factor in all of this is a matter of control. I feel more in control of my life, health, and body. I have incorporated several tools in this process that I feel will also aid me in keeping my goal. The goal to live a healthier lifestyle for life!

One of the tools I am using on this journey is the DASH diet. Do not be confused by the name DASH diet. I am not dieting, in the traditional sense of the word, but changing my eating habits for life. Here is my menu so far today:

breakfast:

8 oz of orange juice
¼ cup of bananas
¼ cup of strawberries
½ whole wheat bagel thin
6 oz cup of french vanilla yogurt
1 tsp pineapple cream cheese
8 oz of water with 2 tsp of apple cider vinegar

lunch:
turkey sandwich
Tomato
Lettuce
10 baby carrots
Apple sauce banana
16 oz of water

snack:
handful of almonds

Here’s to dashing to a healthier lifestyle! Won’t you join me?!

Still hanging in there

2011-04-29T01:27:00.000-04:00

I know I have not been giving this blog justice. So much chaos has been engulfing my life. From family and personal illness to financial hardships with our family business, you get the picture. But I would like to let you in on a few things that I have been doing.

First off, I went to the Earth Day celebration in my town. It was amazing. I got so much interesting information from how to order and pick up food from local food co ops, purchasing organic fruits and vegetables from local farmers, tasting soy based products, and even petted a snake and alligator. We had a wonderful and fulfilling experience that day.

Secondly, I've been getting into physical health and exercise all the while trying to encourage my husband to do the same. My children are very active with sports and other activities but I wanted to figure out how we could enjoy some physical activities together. My family and I have decided to incorporate physical activity into our family time. This week we walked together and I took the children bowling today. For free bowling go to http://freebowling.amf.com and sign your children up for free summer bowling.

Lastly, I have really been trying to focus more on things that have been of my interest. I feel the need to start some projects that I have been longing to do for quite some time now. I feel I have put myself on the back burner for far too long and now is the time for me to explore my inner artist and entrepreneurial spirit. I'm praying for guidance and focus to bring these dreams to fruition that have been deferred for far too long. Until next time.....

Oh I almost forgot, last but not least, I am still struggling with this thing called hypertension. More post to come with my lifestyle strategies to combat and soon hopefully ride my body of this disease. Peace, love, and joy.

I'm baaaccckkkk!

2011-03-11T21:57:00.000-05:00

It has been quite sometime since I have posted. So much has happened. I am still on my journey to better health and educating myself. So with my first post I would like to share with you my first visit to my new laundromat.

The Savannah Soap Company is an amazing state of the art laundromat that is green in design and offers natural and organic items. Everything from laundry detergent to tea is offered at this facility. Did I mention free wifi? It was only $5.99 to wash a load in the big washer and $0.49 to dry. It only took one cycle to dry my big comforter. Yes that's right the dryers actually work. The customer service was awesome! The owner Michael was so helpful and friendly. Manda, who is the clerk there, was very knowledgeable about all the product and services offered. I enjoyed this experience so much that I am going to make this my permanent location to do my laundry.

Ummmmm......

2010-11-13T19:19:00.000-05:00

a major post coming soon to explain my absence: the ugly, the bad, and the good!

I'm Backkkkkkkk!

2010-07-29T19:35:00.000-04:00

Ok so it has been awhile. Ok no it's been a real long time. So much is going on in my life right now, but I felt I have neglected this blog long enough! Currently I am still battling hypertension, back in school as a non traditional student, got accepted into my program of study, and I have been natural for over a year now. Everything has fallen into place and it feels right. That's all for now, but oh so much more to come!

A Pleasant Surprise!

2009-07-21T13:08:00.000-04:00

I am oh so happy to say that I have lost 3 pounds. On our last weigh in I was not so sure what to expect but I am so happy with my results. I am on track with my 90 day plan. So 60 down to 56 pounds left to loose. I am on a mission to a healthier lifestyle, body, mind, and spirit! I will keep you posted. I am presently experiencing computer issues so bare with me.

I almost forgot to mention I have been training everyday to reach my personal goal, running. Pray for me!

Day 7-90 Day Healthy Body Challenge

2009-07-12T21:53:00.000-04:00

I am so joyful today. I visited my friend Lucretia's church today. Her pastor is amazing. Her sermon was just what I needed to hear. The people were so welcoming.

Ok so on the weight loss front, I am happy to say I lost 1.1 pounds. My actual goal is 2 pounds per week. I figure 1.1 pound isn't bad but I have to get crackin'! Tara who is also doing the challenge lost 3.5 pounds. I am so proud of her. Go Tara!

Day 6-Alot is going on!

2009-07-11T22:21:00.000-04:00

I had a very eventful day. I had my very first jewelry booth at the Savannah Market Bazaar. It was a first for my daughter and I. She actually sold more items than I did. Go figure! On the 90 Day Challenge front I have so much to share. I checked my blood pressure and it was the lowest it has been ever! I am so excited. I can only attribute it to the le vive and my conscious effort to have a healthier lifestyle. I am loving my smoothies that I make for breakfast. I will post pic's and share recipes at a later time. I feel like I have more energy as well. Our group weighs in tomorrow at 4:00 pm. I am excited to see what the scale says!

Day 3-90 Day Healthy Body Challenge

2009-07-08T12:09:00.000-04:00

Ok so I have done very well for the first two days. Now the cravings are getting to me. But I must remain strong. A smoothie for breakfast, which was great! le vive and now I need to think about lunch. Water has been my friend. I'm thinking a nice salad with dressing on the side! Well that's it, a little Paul Newman's light honey mustard, red cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a tiny bit of feta cheese for me. Then I'm off to walk. Have a great day everyone!

90 Day Healthy Body Challenge

2009-07-07T12:03:00.000-04:00

I am participating in a challenge. The challenge date runs through July 6 through October 5, 2009. Some of the requirements are to keep a daily journal of meals, weekly weight, and sharing the information on any supplements or programs that are being used. My goal is to loose fifty pounds. I will be posting all my progress so keep checking in and giving my all the support that you can it will be greatly appreciated! It's not to late to join me!

As far as the tools that I will be using are www.sparkpeolpe.com and le vive. www.sparkpeople.com is a website that is very helpful in the aid to loose weight and living a healthier lifestyle.(It's similar to Weight Watcher's but it's FREE!) Thank you Danielle Langford for this information on www.sparkepeople.com. le vive is an antioxidant organic fruit juice that has mangosteen, noni, acai berry, goji, and ploegranate juices. le vive is said to neutralize free radicals responisibe for aging and it increases energy and strength. For any information on le vive please contact me. I will also work out daily .

As with any new health regimen, consult a physician.

On a journey to a healthier lifestyle and body!

So Much Going On!

2009-04-19T22:41:00.000-04:00

Hello anyone who may be choosing to read this?! So much has been going on. Let's see were do I begin? Well I have been fundraising and getting excited about my walk for autism. I have since signed up for a run. All the proceeds go to families who's family member,police officers, died in the line of duty. I started training last week and it has been a true test for me. But I made it through and I am ready for week 2. My daughter and I made several green purchases in honor of earth day! We purchased the Pur water filtration system and some seven generation products. I really like the pur. There are no floaters in the water and no smell. We can definitely cut down on all that plastic. There is also cool light that lets you know when to replace the filter. The seven generation products that we purchased were free and clear laundry detergent and natural dish liquid. These I really like as well. Clothes are clean as ever and dishes are as well.

Transitioinig to the BIG CHOP!

2009-03-31T13:46:00.000-04:00

Well I had been contemplating on whether or not to do the big chop. After I was told by my dermatologist to stop relaxing my hair I knew I had to stop. So the next question was I going to go natural. No relaxer, no texturizer, that was a scary thought. But after much research, talking about it with Sudan and Danielle, and with the inspiration from a lovely lady on YouTube, curly chronicles, I did it. THE BIG CHOP, March 24, 2009! So here is a pic. I'm loving the natural hair and I am excited about the new journey I am on with my hair!

I am thankful for all many blessing from the most high! Peace and blessings!

An Update: Trying Something New!

2009-03-22T13:54:00.000-04:00

My wonderful friend Danielle invited me to work out with her. I haven't had fun like this working out in a while! I learned some new things. I played racket ball for the first time in my life. Let me tell you, it looks oh so easy but it is a work out. I sweated my hind end off. Next it was off to the stretching room. She taught me a neat exercise that works out your mid section. You need two people for this. We used a three pound ball and passed it around each other. Sounds simple right? Well let's just say you can feel it! Working out with people who are as motivated as you are is great. I learned new things and we are planning to work out at least two or three times a week. I am thankful for the new friends I have been blessed with in my life!

Oh I almost forgot to mention, my blood pressure is down and I am getting closer to my goal of getting off med's. Pray for me!

One of those Hazards of Being a Mom!

2009-03-05T12:53:00.000-05:00

I was proud that I did not get sick when everyone else was sick. Making soup, bringing endless drinks and administering cough syrup. Well guess what I am sick. I don't feel much like doing anything. So that's all I have to say for now. Did I mention I love my family and would not trade them for the world!?

Wordle

2009-03-02T12:09:00.000-05:00

I decided to try Wordle after veiwing Ninja Studios Post today. So here is my verison of wordle:

A Walk in the Park

2009-03-02T09:53:00.000-05:00

(The duck below is the type of pet duck I had as a child)

(Does anyone know what type of bird this is? He/she seemed not to mind me being around to take pic's, actually quite a poser)

My weekend was amazing. It all started with a walk in the park. I have recently connected with an old High School friend, Lori. I have also made a new friend named Danielle. They both work at the library which has become my second home. We planned to meet at the park. Lake Mayor is the name. It's beautiful. Lori was unable to make it. She was ill. Danielle and I had a great time. We met an interesting group, Rev. James and Mrs. Janice. They are starting a Organic Farmer's Market. They are really into organics, giving back to the community, and educating the youth. Danielle and I signed up to get involved. My daughter is all about the green thing. So I am excited for her as well. They gave out sample of a new line of organic juice that will be selling at Sam's. It will remind you of vitamin water. The organic apples were delicious. Back to the walk, we saw so many animals. It was so great to just take in nature.

Another plus to my weekend was watching the belly dancers. My daughter and I are planning on taking classes. We will keep you posted on that. I went to church and had an awesome experience with a visiting family that are going to Mexico. They sang and their voices were amazing. Just simple pleasures in life. I have made a promise to myself that I will take in all and appreciate everything in every day.

I will share some pic's from this weekend. I hope you enjoy them.

The simplest of pleasures with family!

2009-02-22T23:33:00.000-05:00

It's baseball and softball season again. I planned for my daughter and I to practice softball again today. It turned out to be a family affair. We had a blast. It has been along time that we had that much fun together with such a simple game of ball. Usually its running off to games, rushing to the next event, scarfing down food, making it home and getting ready to do it all over again. Today was priceless. I cherished today. We didn't spend a dime and we really enjoyed each others company. The best things in life really are for free!

At it again!

2009-02-16T11:20:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I am not as sore as I once was. I am at it again. Off to walking and to my main goal to running. I was very active and somehow got lost in the shuffle and I ended up on the bottom. A dear friend has invited me to go on a run with her in Bermuda next year. So I have to gear up and get it together. Keep me in your prayers!

Oh the OGGI bottles are great. They kept the water very cold. I am going back out today to purchase more OGGI products.

I feel like I have been hit by a truck!

2009-02-13T17:01:00.000-05:00

Well actually I was. I walked away but now I think I need to go to the doctor. I have weird pains in my lower back. Oh well, as far as the walk for autism I am so excited. The children's school is giving a donation and several close friends are contributing as well. My goal is to raise $2500. My goal is a team of ten, so far I only have four. That's okay I am closer to ten then when I first started. I need to get busy though. I wrote to one of our local papers in hopes that they would do an article. I pray they will include the walk. Until next time hopefully with a pain free back.

For a cause that is close to my heart: Autism!

2009-02-05T22:05:00.001-05:00

I've been wondering for a while what I could do to help others. Yesterday I came up with the idea for walking for the March of Dimes again. Then suddenly it hit me. I have been wanting to do something for autism. Maybe they will have another walk this year. The previous year I already committed to the March of Dimes walk with both of my daughters. The autism walk was held on the same day.

So I called around to all the local agencies and looked on the Internet and I could not find anything local. So I am going to do the next best thing, something close to my home: Atlanta. I have found an organization, Autism Speaks, that has the nations largest autism walk program. The Walk Now For Autism that I am participating in will be held on May 3, 2009 at Atlantic Station in Atlanta Georgia. I am the team captain and I have named my Team Agape. If anyone would like to donate on my behalf go to www.walknowforautism.org/georgia/tamarahargrove or to join the team go to www.walknowforautism.org/georgia/teamagape .

You may be asking yourself why I chose to support autism. My brother and my niece have autism. I have several close friends who have children who have been diagnosed with autism and autism spectrum. Everyone wish me luck this is my first time doing something like this!

Green Purchase of The Day!

2009-01-31T14:13:00.001-05:00

I have decided to start posting my new finds, well things that are new to me, and eco friendly products. So here it go's:

Today, my daughter and I purchased OGGI aluminum sports bottles with screw-top loop bottle cap and carabiner clip. They come in silver, dark grey, black, red, purple, green, blue, and pink. My daughter chose green for going green and I chose silver. They will keep your cold drinks cold. You can put water, juice, and carbonated beverages inside.The manufacturer states that this type is not used for hot drinks or alcohol. Do not place them in the freezer. They are made out of non-toxic, light weight recycled aluminum. They are a great alternative to plastic bottles that are filing up our landfills. They are made by the OGGI Corporation which is located in Anaheim California and the model number is 5063.

I will do a follow up in a later post as to how well they kept our beverages cold.

Tasty Tueday!

2009-01-27T12:41:00.000-05:00

I decided to find a recipe from one of my favorite lunch time spots, Ruby Tuesday. I really like to get the White Bean Chicken Chili and the salad bar when it is oh so cold outside. This is actually a healthy choice for dining out. I found a recipe on Recipe Zarr that seems to mimic my fav. I will include the Nutrition facts that I found on rubytuesday.com. Enjoy!

Serves 6 to 8

Ingredients

6 cups of chicken stock
1 lp great northern beans (soaked in water overnight)

2 medium onions, chopped
6 cups chicken, diced cooked

2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
2 chili peppers, diced

1 1/2 teaspoons oregano
2 teaspoons cumin

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup salsa
1taglespoon vegetable oil
1pinch of salt (to taste)

Directions
1Simmer beans, half the onions, and half the garlic for 2 hours in the chicken stock or until the beans soften, stirring frequently. Add chicken and salsa.
2Saute pepper, spices, and the remaining onions and garlic in the oil and add to the chili.
3Simmer for one more hour.
4Garnish with sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese and fresh chopped cilantro.

For an even healthier version you can opt to use plain low fat yogurt in place of the sour cream and low fat Monterey Jack cheese.

White Bean Chicken Chili.......................... 318 calories/ 11 fat grams/ 29 net carb / 11 fiber gram

Tasty Tuesday!

2009-01-20T10:17:00.000-05:00

In honor of out 44th President, Barack Obama, I decided to share one of his favorite foods and in a healthier version.

Since I have been in the south for quite sometime now I had to mention that he likes shrimp and grits, a staple here in Savannah, Georgia.

Here is a healthier version of this Southern Favorite:

Spicy Shrimp and Grits

Ingredients
1/2 cup quick-cooking grits
1/4 cup chopped smoked sausage
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp old bay seasoning
4 scallions, sliced thin
1/2 tbsp canola oil
1/2 medium yellow onion, minced
1/2 medium green bell pepper, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
12 oz medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 plum tomatoes, chopped
Salt and pepper
hot sauce
Directions

Prepare the grits according to package directions, using chicken broth instead of water. When they're cooked, stir in the cheese, scallions, and some salt and pepper. Cover.

Heat the oil in a medium saute pan or cast-iron skillet on medium. Add the smoked sausage, onion, pepper, and garlic, and cook until lightly browned, 5 to 7 minutes. Add shrimp, tomatoes, and Old Bay seasoning, and cook until the shrimp are pink and firm. Add salt, pepper, and hot sauce to taste. Serve the shrimp over the hot grits and garnish with scallions. (You may omit the sausage I do)Makes 2 servings

Enjoy!

By the way, today is my 14th wedding anniversary!

Brighter Day

2009-01-19T23:02:00.000-05:00

After working out this evening, Lucretia and I went to one of my favorite health food stores named Brighter Day! I went in quest of a natural remedy for high blood pressure and information on cooking classes and just to see what was new. Lucretia wanted to inquire on something that would speed up her metabolism. We met a wonderful woman named Kat. She was so helpful. We learned so much. There is a book I am going back to purchase with a new twist on lowering your blood pressure. I will share the title with you later. Kat showed us around the store and discussed new products and even a little taste testing. My fav was a roasted tamari almond. We also discussed topics ranging from mad cow to free range birds. Oh the fresh herbs were amazing. Kat introduced Lucretia to an interesting natural derived product that can help in aid to her weight loss. I also met another interesting lady who told me about a cool place to take vegetarian cooking classes on Wednesday's. I had a good day today.

On another note, a distant cousin of mine found me and I got invited to a Choctaw Convention that is taking place this summer in my native Oklahoma. I have not mentioned this but genealogy is another passion of mine. I said I had a good day, what I actually should say is I had an awesome day!

Words cannot express......

2009-01-18T15:24:00.000-05:00

I am overjoyed and overwhelmed with a tremendous sense of pride. I am currently watching the Obama Inaugural Celebration. I feel so blessed to be a part and witness this historical event along with my family. Never have I seen such an outpouring of support and togetherness that I have seen today. This is the America I love to see: all colors, races, genders, religions, and sexual orientation together on one common bond: CHANGE! I am a member of a family who is filled with many colors, sexual orientations and religions. I am just so be side myself. I will let you know that I am crying. Crying for joy, pride, and with hope that all of the prejudices, bigotry, hurt and pain can be put aside for our nation to heal. I will end with one of my all time favorites, Bob Marley:

One Love!

One Love! One Heart!Let's get together and feel all right.

Hear the children cryin' (One Love!);

Hear the children cryin' (One Heart!),

Sayin': give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right;

Sayin': let's get together and feel all right. Wo wo-wo wo-wo!

Let them all pass all their dirty remarks (One Love!);

There is one question I'd really love to ask (One Heart!):Is there a place for the hopeless sinner,

Who has hurt all mankind just to save his own beliefs?

One Love!

What about the one heart?

One Heart!What about - ?

Let's get together and feel all rightAs it was in the beginning (One Love!);

So shall it be in the end (One Heart!),All right!

Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right;Let's get together and feel all right.

One more thing!

Let's get together to fight this Holy Armagiddyon (One Love!),

So when the Man comes there will be no, no doom (One Song!).

Have pity on those whose chances grows t'inner;

There ain't no hiding place from the Father of Creation.Sayin': One Love!

What about the One Heart? (One Heart!)

What about the - ?

Let's get together and feel all right.

I'm pleadin' to mankind! (One Love!);

Oh, Lord! (One Heart) Wo-ooh!

Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right;

Let's get together and feel all right.

Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right;

Let's get together and feel all right.

(pictured above are my husband and daughter and both of my children together)

HELP!

2009-01-17T10:26:00.000-05:00

Anyone out there, how do you deal with depression and stress?!

No more up chuck please!

2009-01-15T23:10:00.000-05:00

So my dear friend Marea came into town for a couple of days due to her uncle passing away. I met her this morning for coffee and breakfast with my favorite little side kick named Alijah! Everything was going well until Alijah becomes sleepy and wants to lay back in my arms. I'm thinking to myself, this is strange, ever since this child has been in existence he has never wanted to lay back. But I was like cool maybe this is something new. Just as I began to tell Marea this, Alijah raises his head, opens his mouth, and out comes a huge volumes of up chuck. My face, jacket, and all of Alijah were drenched with his morning breakfast. I made a mad dash for the door trying not to cause a chain reaction in the restaurant. I got him all cleaned up and then I focused on myself. Mare was a good sport about the whole thing. She came out and even modeled my earrings that I created for her. I never shared, that is one of my passions: JEWELRY MAKING! My other love is genealogy. It was so nice to see Marea and I didn't realize how much I missed her until it was time to go. I love you Marea. You are my sister from another mother.

OHHHHHHHH THE PAIN!

2009-01-14T23:05:00.000-05:00

First the good news, I have stayed motivated and today we weighed and I have lost 1.5 pounds my present weight is 205! The bad news, my blood pressure was toooo high today 175/112. I need to make a doctors appointment. Now to the PAIN, I worked out on the elliptical machine today and did 1.5 miles and I am in so much pain. I plan to conquer this machine. It is so difficult for me but I am going to keep at it. I know I am out of shape but my goodness. I could only do 2 miles on the bike after the experience with that machine.

Tasty Tuesday!

2009-01-13T18:27:00.001-05:00

Ok everyone I have been craving salad and chicken. One is a healthy version from the DASH diet and one of my personal favs:

Chicken Salad
Ingredients:3-1/4 cup chicken, cooked, cubed, skinless1/4 cup celery, chopped 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/8 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons light mayonnaise

Directions:In a large bowl combine all ingredients. Mix well.

I must admit I add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder as well. I love garlic.

Another fav of mine is a simple Chicken Salad
Ingredients"grilled chicken breast/iceberg lettuce/asiago chesse/ lowfat ranch dressing
Directions: In a large bowl layer one head of chopped iceberg lettuce, shredded chicken breast, and the asiago cheese. Don't forget the light ranch.

Enjoy!

Ok, I am at it again!

2009-01-12T06:53:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I had fallen off that horse and stopped exercising like I should. I was doing one day here one day there. Lucretia called me yesterday and asked if I wanted to start again. I told her I did not want to hold her back because I knew our schedule did not match. She had also stopped exercising and wanted to start again. She was willing to do the early morining thing. So ofcourse I said HECK YEAH! So this morning I woke up at 4:00 am, met Lucretia and we started working out at 5:00 am. I walked 1.5 miles on the tread mill and 5.12 miles on the bike. I checked my blood pressure it was a high: 165/108 with a pulse rate of 113. My weight I can painfully say is 206.5 pounds. I almost put all the weight back on. I started out at 215 pounds on Oct 24, 2008 and Nov 15 I was at 202.5 pounds. I have to get crackin!

Well I'm off to make breakfast and lunches for everyone and take the kids off to school. Everyone have a great day!

BSS Tourney!

2009-01-10T22:07:00.000-05:00

This is totally off subject but I had to share this. My daughter has been so dedicated and it payed off. Her Team won the BSS Christmas tournament and I just found out that she was in the newspaper. (Malise is number 3 back row on the right!) Here is part of the article:

St. James sixth-grade boys, girls win BSS tourney
By Savannah Morning News
Created 2009-01-08 00:30
The sixth-grade St. James Chargers girls and boys basketball teams weren't about to be outdone by their eighth-grade schoolmates.
The eighth-graders had earlier won St. Peter the Apostle School's Preseason Christmas Holiday Tournament.
The sixth-graders matched them by winning the second annual Tom Butler Preseason Christmas Holiday Basketball Tournament at Blessed Sacrament School.
Formally called the Blessed Sacrament Christmas Holiday Tournament, the tournament has become a tradition for well more than 20 years.
The BSS/Butler tournament for junior varsity teams gives a glimpse of the Savannah Parochial Athletic League's regular season, which opened this week.
The four-day BSS tourney ran Dec. 8-12. It was named in honor of the school's former athletic director, Thomas Butler.
Current Blessed Sacrament athletic director Mike Carbo called this year's tournament a huge success. Here are the results:
St. James girls
The Lady Chargers went 3-0 and defeated Savannah Christian 27-26 to win the title. Anne Scott led the Lady Chargers in scoring with 10 points. Teammate Kayla Taueg added nine.
The Lady Chargers advanced to the finals by defeating Hancock 16-14 and Blessed Sacrament 14-13. Scott led the Lady Chargers with 13 points in the win over the Lady Eagles. Taueg paced the Lady Chargers with six points in the victory over the Lady Irish.
Other Lady Charger team members were Malise Hargrove, Chauncey Harris, Sarah Anne Hranes, Stephanie McAllister, Catie Morris, Lauren Powers and Kayla Smokes.
Coaches were Patrick Kelly and Mike Scott.

Christmas Traditions!

2008-12-24T20:40:00.000-05:00

OK, so its been a while. Yes I am one of the ones who fell victim to the holiday food and fun. But I am getting back on the horse.

On another subject. I've always wondered what other peoples do on Christmas Eve. Well I am going to share my family's traditions. We start off the night by driving around looking at all of those marvelous Christmas Lights. Those lights just do something to me. We have a favorite house that we have been going to for about 19 years now and this house is legendary as far as I am concerned. The Roddenberry's! We found another one to add to our favorite route! We listened to Taylor Swift and a mixed Christmas CD with many old favorites, The Jackson Five Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Rocking Around the Christmas Tree, just to name a few. We were saddened to arrive home to see the police arresting someone in our neighborhood attempting to robe a neighbors house. Wow is all I can say. But they were caught in time. Now its time to watch that loooooooooooooooooooooooong marathon that we watch every year: A Christmas Story! We are going to enjoy this eggnog. By the way did I say how hot it is here, it's 65 degrees now and expected to be 78 degrees tomorrow. So much for my wish of at least a cold Christmas.

I have been blue and there are a lot of changes going on in my life. Change is good and I realized I need to welcome change, embrace it, and continue to enjoy this ride called life. I hope and pray that everyone remembers what's most important in life: health, the love from family and friends, and remembering Jesus and his never ending love and sacrifice. So Merry Christmas everybody!

Tasty Tuesday!

2008-12-09T22:04:00.000-05:00

Turkey Sloppy Joes

This is a family favorite. So I decided to try to make this in a healthier, tasty version. With Basketball season and tournaments going on, this is a quick meal for a busy night. This is for you Xavier and Malise.

For Turkey Sloppy Joes you will need:

2 tsp canola oil
1 cup chopped onions
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 pound lean ground turkey breast
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp brown sugar
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tsp red pepper flakes
2 tsp wine vinegar
1/4 tsp pepper

Heat oil in a large skillet and saute the onion and bell pepper until tender. Add the turkey and cook about 5 minutes. Drain off fat. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well. Simmer for 15 minutes and serve on buns. I like mine toasted. To reduce the sodium of this recipe, use salt free tomato sauce. (American Diabetes Association Soul Food Cookbook for People with Diabetes)

I also serve this with oven fried french fries! Enjoy!

Tasty Tuesday!

2008-12-02T21:02:00.000-05:00

In honor of Lisa's Cajun Salmon Pasta Recipe I am going to make Tuesday a day that I will share tasty low cal recipes. Hence the name Tasty Tuesday! Lisa, this was a very delicious recipe. It was hit with me and other members of my family; my mom and daughters. Thank you so much Lisa.

On another note, I have been keeping up with my daily walks every morning, getting up at 5 am and beginning my walk at 5:30 am. My daughter Tiffany has started walking with me this week. I am so excited for her as well.

Oh, I bumped into a dear friend from high school in the library. The library is my second home. I began discussing my goals and wanting to live a healthier life. As it turns out she has been dealing with some of the same issues that I have. I encouraged her to go to the doctor. I pray that she goes. She is such a warm sweet person. I hope she takes me up on my offer of walking and exercising together. Lori, if your reading this, I am thinking of you and praying for you as well.

Until next time!

Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T23:42:00.001-05:00

Well first off let me start off by saying Happy Thanksgiving! I wanted to share a few healthy tips for anyone who may be interested. For those of you who may like southern food or what some may call soul food, here are some helpful healthier options. In collard greens, instead of neck bones use smoke turkey and chicken stock. I have found that it is actually more tasty. Here is my recipe:

two bunches of collard green

chicken stock to cover the greens ( 3 15 ounce cans)

red pepper flakes

smoked turkey wings or you can use neckbone ( I perfer wings)

2 tbsp of oil

and 1tbsp of salt

Wash your collard greens, and then throw everything else in the pot. Cook over a nice simmer until the collard greens are tender. You can serve them by themselves or over rice as my husband prefers.

Opt for the mashed potato's instead of stuffing. Potato's have less calories. You can also make awesome pies with using Splenda. Lucretia makes an awesome apple pie using Splenda. I have a new recipe that I am going to try. What is Thanksgiving without pumpkin pie? So I am going to try this healthier version.

Pumpkin pie with Whipped Topping

1 9 inch pie 10 servings

1 9 inch deep dish pie shell prebaked

1/4 cup of Splenda ( sugar substitute)

Pinch of salt

1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

1 tsp cinnamon

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 15 ounce can Libby pumpkin

1 12 ounce can nonfat evaporated milk

1 1/4 cups of Cool Whip Lite whipped topping (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350

Combine the first four ingredients in a small mixing bowl. Beat together eggs and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Beat pumpkin into the eggs. Add the dry ingredients and mix to completely combine. Gradually add the evaporated milk. Mix to blend thoroughly. Place the pie shell on a cookie sheet and fill the shell with the pumpkin mixture. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. When done, the filling will feel firm to the touch. Cool, cut, and serve with whipped topping id desired.

(Recipe form The Diabetes Holiday Cookbook)

I want everyone to enjoy this holiday with there families and friends. But I have one request, please take time to acknowledge the gift of being THANKFUL.

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, wither well fed or hungry, whether living plenty or in want"

Philippians 4:4-12

Quite Frankly.

2008-11-25T11:15:00.000-05:00

Well let me just be straight up and honest. This week was a total disaster in the area of my exercise and weight loss. My exercise partner, Lucretia, has decided to take a hiatus from the gym for personal reasons. I intern have not taken any initiative to exercise, well walking that’s it, on my own. Well today I am going to work out on my own. I have to take control and use what I have. I have an exercise bench, jump rope, stairs, water jugs, and old, did I say very old, treadmill. So off to my garage I go, to get back into the groove and continue on my journey. I have also decided to wake up around 5:00 am to get started daily. I have not checked my pressure either. So I have to get crackin. The gym on post was so awesome. It was ultra modern with everything you can think of. If Lucretia decided to resume exercising and invite me again, I will be there with bells on!! I will keep you posted.

Ruby!

2008-11-18T16:56:00.000-05:00

Has anyone been watching the show about Ruby on the Style Network? She is a fellow Savannahian who has decided to take charge of her health to save her life. I was introduced to the show by my friend Lucretia. I was hooked on the first show. I watched the second show last night and I was so proud of Ruby. An old flame returned and Ruby decided that she would not rekindle the relationship. I was so touched when Ruby said, "I am falling in love with myself." We as women sometimes focus on everyone and everything but we forget to love and care for ourselves. Way to go Ruby! Check Ruby out on the Style Network. Well I'm off to my sons basketball practice and then to the gym to meet Lucretia.

P.S. My day was made when I saw that I had my first comment and follower! Thanks ladies!

Wow!

2008-11-15T08:33:00.000-05:00

Ok. These past couple of days, three to be exact, have been awful. Lucretia and I have not been to the gym. I got up early this morning and went walking at 6:00 am. I walked for an hour and a half. I intend to meet with Lucretia today. With job hunting and the usual daily life surprises, I have not been as dedicated as I would like to be. I have to get back on track!
Well I am back from the gym and I am so.. oh words can not describe what I am feeling. I now weigh 202.5 pounds. When I began this journey I was 215 pounds. (Progression of my weight loss: 215, 208.5, 207.6, 202.5) My blood pressure also went down, 148/88. (Progression of my pressure: 192/194, 150/100, 136/88, 151/100, 148/88)My blood pressure is not were it should be, but I am progressing very well. Lucretia is doing very well also. I will post her stats at a later date. I am focused, determined, and motivated. The lesson I learned is this: Just because you may get off course a little don't give up. Get right back to it! I'm glad I did. I have lost so far 12.5 pounds!

Motivated!

2008-11-10T23:31:00.001-05:00

Well today I returned the doctors office for a brief check up. Susan says she is very proud of me for my weight loss. When I began this journey I was 215 pounds and my pressure was 192/194. As of today my weight is 204.6 and my pressure is 151/100. We have set a goal for me to be rechecked in three months to check on my progress to see if I will need to be on the medications any further. She also instructed me to monitor my pressure. If it gets down to 130/80 to come in and they would decide if it is appropriate for me to stop taking the medication. Naturally that just motivated me even more. As far as the exercising, today is day four. I am so soar. This morning was horrible. My legs were so tight and soar. I had to take a very hot shower to get loosened up. I went in for my training session with Sudan. I did a mile on the bike first, stretched, and then I was off to see Sudan. Lucretia is very determined. She is like a machine. Guess what today was leg day. Oh my goodness, that's all I could think in my head! But I am going to press on. Press on that's what I'm telling myself. I absorbed everything Sudan taught me today. I actually felt better. I am so glad I did not stay home. I am going to post pic's of Lucretia and I. Lucretia is at the top of the page. I am the one at the bottom wearing my Obama it's time for change shirt. Isn't it fitting. I can't wait in about three months I plan to look, feel, and be a totally different person. Well I am going to make some bath salts, soak, and drift off in a peaceful slumber. Tomorrow is another day.

Hypertension

2008-11-08T20:09:00.000-05:00

Hello. My name is Tamara and I have decided to share my journey to help educate, motivate, and inspire others who have been diagnosed with Hypertension, better known as high blood pressure. I am a 34 year old married woman with five children. Here is the beginning of my journey:

I went to my doctors appointment on October 24, 2008. While going through the normal drill of height, weight, and blood pressure, I found out I have high blood pressure. My blood pressure was pretty high, 192/194. I knew I hadn't been feeling to well, I thought I 'm just over weight and I need to lose some pounds. The PA Kai decided to stay over and see me so I would not leave without having the proper medications for my condition. That was very generous for Kai to do. Well I was given two prescriptions, lisinopril and hdrochlorothiazide combo and clondine hydrochloride, and I was told under no conditions to stop taking them. The first couple of days were horrible for me. I struggled with them and then over the weekend after vomiting all night long I stopped taking them. I returned to the doctors office, the very nice PA Susan informed me about my med's and once again I went back on the medications. My pressure did go down to 150/100. I also discussed my concern with my family history of diabetes. Susan enrolled me in a diabetic healthy eating class. I am also to check in every Monday to see her so she can keep track of my pressure. I am very thankful to Susan and her kindness.

I no longer felt dizzy and woozy. I have adjusted to the meds very well. I went to the diabetes class and learned alot information. There were people there of all age groups and races. High blood pressure and diabetes seem to be conditions that the people attending the class were dealing with. It got me to thinking of my family history. I have a great aunt who had to go to dialysis every other day and eventually passed away due to the complications of high blood pressure and diabetes.

Late one night while flipping through the channels, I came across one of the talks shows with a woman saying, "Would you treat your children the way you treat yourself?" "Would you not take them to the doctor?" I thought oh my gosh, I never thought of it that way. I have totally been neglecting myself. It's no ones fault but my own. That night is when I decided enough is enough. No more excuses. High blood pressure and diabetes are diseases that I am not going just accept. I have high blood pressure, it does not have me. I know that with diet and exercise I can take control of my health, reclaim my body and be free from these diseases.

My dear friend Lucretia contacted me and wanted to know if I would like to go the gym with her. I accepted. This was such a blessing. She is such a great motivator and I knew we could keep each other motivated so we could both reach our goals. I was so excited and could not wait to go. The gym was amazing. It was state of the art. She had an appointment with her trainer. As she was going through the routine with her trainer and I was thinking this is so cool. Everything is so advanced. She was using a specialized scale that was giving out all kinds of information. Your metabolic age, weight, bone density, body fat and muscle mass.... When she was finished, she said its your turn. I was like really I was just expecting to work out. Again what a blessing. I took off my socks and anxiously awaited. I was so surprised to find out that I had actually lost 11 pounds, I have a lot of muscle mass, and basically there is still hope for me. Sudan, that is her name, was so motivating and inspirational. So much so that I began to cry. Not tears of sadness but tears of coming to terms with myself as a wife, mother, friend, sister, well so many titles sometimes that I realized that I had forgotten about myself. Sudan was right it's time and I'm going to do it. I am going to make my goal of losing weight and to once again to be able to run.

So here embarks my journey. My journey to eradicate high blood pressure and the onset of diabetes from my body. To become a more healthier woman so I can be the best I can be for myself , my husband, and my wonderful children. I want share my progress of Lucretia and I. I plan to post the beginning weight and loss, the blood pressure and so on. To Kai, Susan, and Sudan, thank you so very much for your kindness, understanding, and sincere concern for me and equipping me with the knowledge to help myself. To Lucretia, Marea, Iris, Sandy, Vannessa, Veronica, and the countless other shero's who motivate and inspire me to be the best, you are all a blessing from the most high GOD. Last but definitely not least, to my husband, children and my mother I love you and thank you for supporting me. I am blessed, determined, and thankful.