Wednesday, December 29, 2010

FREE! Check it out...

So, I still have so much to update on, but I needed to take the time to share this with you guys...

My very good friend Candice is taking up photography and has a fellow photographer friend Amber Wood Photography who is having a FREE session give away [something you can't beat...FREE]. I think you guys should partake in the contest...what can it hurt?

Have a good one!

P.S. I just enterd myself...it's that easy!!

Sunday, December 26, 2010

Real Quick

I know it's been a while, but I am blogging to let you know I will be updating AND it will be a LONG one =)

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Where Have I Been?

Seriously, I have read people's blogs bout Etsy, but never knew anything of it... Finally, my curiosity got the best of me and now I am an addict... I love quotes and boy, oh boy do I need to share this one...ESPECIALLY for those who know me... I need to make this purchase when I get the money for sure!

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Trials

Life is full of them for sure. Currently, I am babysitting my niece, Krischna's [Will's sister] daughter Kaylyn [not biological, but my niece regardless]...She's teething =I  This is a big trial for sure. Some day I want children... and this is a true test...I've worked with kids before and babysat before, but not for as long as I have been with her. I love her to death and I see her often. Auntie Risha loves babysitting her because there's never a dull moment. But teething is NO JOKE! Poor baby doesn't sleep much. Today, has been different though... Thursday I watched her for like 3 hours, while her mom went to a meeting, of that she cried for half [so it seemed]... Friday, was great...minimal fussing and lots of laughs...Today, well I fed her and she was good but then started crying non-stop...no pacifier... I gave her some teething tablets and they seemed to do the trick, she slept for an hour and a half and woke up super fussy again, but still tired... I rocked her to sleep again... she's still napping so I decided to blog.

I am still jobless, but I have no doubt that it WILL get better soon. Last week I got a call from Office Team, a job agency. I figured I have been looking for a job long enough, maybe someone should help me. A woman, who I didn't like because of the way she carries herself, referred me to them. I went in that day and tested. I didn't do too bad. Now I just need to call in and let them know I am available for work.

On 9-7-2010, I celebebrated my 6 year anniversary with Will <3 Yeah I know, when's the wedding? HA HA... Let me just answer the question for you guys... I need to be asked to marry him first...and well I think the job factor needs to kick in...How else can we pay for a wedding? I am just saying... Although, being asked most certainly won't hurt anything =)

In the mean time, I still have Avon, which hopefully picks up. In all honesty, it is cheaper on people. I save so much more using their products. So if interested, www.youravon.com/arishapiper =) I also applied to work at Panera Bread by LAX; I can't work with Will at Torrance or Krischna at Carson. I am pretty much a shoe in for the job, but I most definitely will not take it for granted... being without a job SUCKS! Money is money. If this is what it takes to get me where I want, then bring it on!

I think I have babbled enough... have a great morning, day, night!

[Side note: sometimes it sucks getting hooked up with a job. All of the ones I have had, besides Miller Barondess, LLP., have been handed to me... hopefully, I get one soon regardless of what it is...I know, I know I am being redundant...SUE ME!]

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Cause we think like that...

First the reason for my title is because I keep telling myself I need to update my blog... I have been telling Jenalee that... Along with thinking it in my head, last night I got a text from Candice about blogging... LOL she beat me to it... I have been here thinking "man I have so much to type" and procrastinating, but doing that will only make me have to type more. I am going to update you guys in months =)

April
Not sure if I updated, but my sister was asked to move and we needed someone to come in and help with rent. Our friend Matt and his girlfriend Star, who's pregnant, moved in with us. More on that later....

May
I know I have an update in May, but I was so busy with the Census, that I didn't really update. The joy of making money. Hopefully, it turns around for me. I have been praying every day. We went to Vegas for sweeps and neither of us made money =( A week after coming back was Candice's Bridal Shower. It was BEAUTIFUL:



June
The job hunt was on... obviously I haven't gotten a job yet, but I am not giving up. This was the month I believe Jenalee announced she was pregnant and I am so happy for her! This was also the crunchtime month. After the bridal shower, time decided to fly... so much that I really don't remember what happened in June, just the end...on the 30th, I went over to Candice's house and helped her with last minute wedding details. I am a pro bottle cleaner and I am not complaining at all. You'll see what I mean after I post pics...

July
Brace yourself, this is the long one...The first was the wedding rehearsal/dinner. With the last minute running around. Because I helped so much, Candice's mom paid for me to get a manicure and pedicure. She made me feel soooo appreciated. The rehearsal made everything seem so real. Never have I been in a wedding and after the rehearsal, I have to admit I was SUPER nervous. Not to mention the fact that Candice had Ken and I walk out first... No pressure! Here's a pic from rehearsal:


The dinner was held and Candice's aunt and uncle's house. The food was delicious. July 2nd was her Bachelorette Party. You're probably thinking, "why the day before?" The answer is because the bride cares what her bridal party has planned. No weekend worked so it was either no party or day before. This was also my first Bachelorette Party... it was definitely a night full of laughs. We went to Maciel's, one of her bride's maids, house and partied there and then headed out for some dancing. That was fun and for those who know me, know that I am not much of a dancer, but I sure did have some fun:


As you can see, I am not to good at taking a pic [mine's on the left and her's is on the right]. The other pics, well they can't be seen., unless it was by someone who was at the party =) That night I stayed at Candice's house. I felt so special. The plan was for me to get dropped off and Will pick me up at the wedding. I think that went well. The thing about the Galvan house, they make you feel like family. I miss them so much. I only spent a week with them and they've definitely left an impression on my heart. So here it is, July 3rd, WEDDING DAY! Lots of getting ready for sure. Dercell came and did my makeup and Jadira [Candice's sister-in-law and bride's maid] did my hair, with the style done by her mom:


So the only pictures that I have from the wedding are behind the scenes and the reception. The ceremony was amazing. I started tearing up when Jared, sorry to say, started to cry. It was so sweet. So here's a couple of pics. I am so happy for the newlyweds <3



July 4th they had a gift opening day. I have pictures from that, but I won't post any. They got a lot of loot. I was glad I went because it was the last time I was gonna see her for a while. No text, no communicating. Honeymoon time...

On Wednesday July 14th, I was fortunate enough to get my hair done with Krischna. While at Jamie's we saw a post that said "We should continue the honeymoon in Vegas" from Jared. That would be awesome! They were seriously thinking about coming, but Candice had to go to the ER so I was in Vegas alone, going crazy. Not her fault though.

The next week, I had heard something that bothered me and really needed to talk to Candice. I needed to talk to her, not sure what she was doing, I texted her and asked her to call me when she wasn't busy. About 2 hours later I got a call from her HUSBAND saying she was in the ER again and I could go visit if I wanted. Something was wrong, but they didn't know what. Now if you know me again, I HATE the hospital...I think it's more of a fear. I told her when I got there that I don't want to have to come back, that she couldn't do this to us again. I stayed and visited for a while. They were running tests and it pained me to see her in pain and they had no answer for her. I went home thinking the next time I see her in the hospital, better be when she has a baby. Thursday morning I got a call that couldv'e changed my life FOREVER. Jared told me Candice's appendix ruptured. I was trying to get off the phone as quick as I could so that I could cry my eyes out. I almost lost my best friend [and Jared almost lost his wife]... I can deny it all I want, but Will and almost all the females he works with calls her that and I am really starting to believe it. I know Candice won't hurt me. Candice it's true. I consider you my best friend. I was visiting the hospital more frequently, but she was most definitely worth it. She's better now. She's home and getting stronger every day.

August
Still on the job hunt and going crazy in this house. I feel like a prisoner in my own home. We have a ps3 and Matt brought home some games to play. He's an addict! He ties up my living room TV and I am confined to my room. I seriously am going bonkers. I need a job badly. My tank is on E and I am not talking gas tank. This month I planned on enrolling in the Paralegal Certificate program at Cal State Dominguez Hills. I was struggling to get a loan though, so needless to say, that didn't happen. I will complete the program, I just need to get the funding.

September
It's already here! In 6 days it will be mine and Will's... and Jared and Candice's 6 year anniversary! Only they have an even better anniversary to share <3 6 years!! I can't believe we made it this far. Lord and Candice knows we've had our ups and downs, but we've made it this far =)

That's all for now. Hope you guys have been entertained enough... next time it won't be so long.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Avon eParty

Hey all!

I have so much to say, but for now, just this:

I'm hosting an Avon eParty from now until the end of July! Easy Online Shopping. Free Shipping on all Direct Delivery orders right to your door! Avon provides everything from skincare to cosmetics, from fashion to health and fitness. Order online 24/7!

Just be sure to accept ARISHA PIPER as your representative and put in the code LUV2HELP so that proper credit goes to the person. Thanks & Happy Shopping!

Here's the site: http://arishapiper.avonrepresentative.com/eparty/view.php?rep_spnsr_evnt_id=45343

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Pics from our flood...One's really gross...

I am not sure if you can see it well but this is our sink area in the bathroom, to the right is the entrance where the toilet area is and shower. It's the open part in our bedroom:


This is the spot I stepped in, in the hallway that made me go WTF? because it is pretty far from the wall and my dumb self, looked up ha ha to see if something was dripping. Then that's when I noticed the dampness along the walls in the livingroom and the hallway. It was not a pleasant step for sure.   


This is what the little puddle in front of the hall entrance escalated into, the darker area is all water:

Ok now it gets nasty... This is what our shower looked like. There's noodles, that look like worms to me, and corn...  a whole bunch of crap, to say the least and it SUPER SMELLS!: 


This is the entrance to the bathroom area in our room and you can see the water in the dark spots; that's what I first stepped in before seeing the mess. I didn't even want to see the shower:

So, the tile is off of our door to enter the apartment. You can see the way they cut the carpet, which the plumber says they're going to put back, I can't believer that. After about an hour and a half of jack-hammering you can see where this has gone. I sent Will a text and said they aren't even close to the whole. Plus, the dude was there alone digging all the concrete out and putting it outside:

This is what it was starting to look like after all the concrete was up. There's a hose, which I think is random, they had to dig the dirt out as well to get to the actual pole. The hole is a pretty decent size and you gotta hold the wall to get in the hallway, but the plumber put a huge piece of wood so we can walk on it...umm we aren't staying there in the stench! That's just too nasty and bad for all of our health, especially Star, Matt's girlfriend, whom is pregnant:

This is the view from my hallyway area, you can see the hole and the big area of carpet missing. I still cannot get over the fact that they are going to put the carpet back, especially since they piled the concrete AND dirt on it on the grass by our front door. The jack-hammer is chillin in the hallway:


They wanted to bring this back in the house because he said it was dry. EWW!! You can see the water stains. I made him put this in our patio area because there was no way it was going back:

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Man Oh Man

It's been a while since I posted on here and I only saw it fit to update with a venting... Yes venting! I must vent! Just a little background on the situation: In December of last year, Will was in Vegas and I was working at Miller Barondess, LLP.. One morning I saw that my shower was clogged, but thought nothing of it. I worked a 10 hour day and came home to a smelly apartment... Turns out my shower flooded my bathroom. I called the after hours number [which turned out to be the manager's cell phone #], finally got a hold of her and explained the situation, telling her it's an emergency and she told me it wasn't an emergency because we have 2 bathrooms with a shower in it. She said she would be sending a plumber out the next day; mind you the fumes were super bad and I was told by Candice that it's not healthy to be inhaling it. I had to work the next day, so I prayed they came early in the morning. The plumber said he'd come when I got off work...That wasn't working for me, it needed to be done first thing in the morning, and first thing it was. All was well...

HA HA HA!

Yesterday morning, I went to take a shower because my friend Matt was graduating. I noticed the shower was clogged and was knocked out, so I didn't know if Will had taken a shower before he left for work. I put that on my list of things to do: Call the management company to let them know what was happening, so that I could avoid what happened in December. So I took a shower in the other bathroom, since I knew she'd tell me it wasn't an emergency, plus it didn't kill me to take a shower in the other bathroom... I called the management company after we ate and the manager wasn't there, but the secretary said she'd relay the message and send someone out to check it out; she took my number and said she'd get back to me. Well I needed to go the mall and pick up a corsette type thing for my dress in Candice's wedding and I needed to get it done before today...being as they hadn't called me back I figured they just didn't care. There was a little problem at the mall and I needed to go to a different one. On my way to the other mall at 6:35PM a plumber called me, he didn't speak very good english and said he was on his way. I told him I wasn't home and he told me to give him my address and to call him back when I got home. Jeremy came with me, but was asleep most of the time. When we got home around 7:20PM, we smelled something really bad. I thought it was the trash...actually, I prayed it was the trash... I headed into my room and it smelled HORRIBLE! Like worse than DECEMBER did... Turns out my bathroom area was flooded onto our bedroom carpet. I couldn't believe it. Not again was all I could think. When I went in the living room to tell Jeremy what it was, I stepped in a puddle of water, THEN realized it was wet along the living room wall and along the hallway. Of course this was all happening with Will not home. I couldn't believe he didn't tell me anything about it. I called the after hours number once again and COULD NOT get a hold of her for over an hour and a half. This was a super emergency because the smell was 100 times worse than last time and it was more flooded than last time. Oh forgot to mention, I COULD NOT get a hold of the plumber that called me AND I couldn't leave him a message either. Seriusly, what plubmer doesn't have a voicemail????

Anywho, I told her that she always sends people who barely speak english to me and that's messed up and besides I couldn't get a hold of him. She told me another guy's number [the same guys that fixed it last time] and to give him a call in 10 minutes... Turns out he called me. I explained the situation to him and he says "Ok, I am not in my truck, but I'll come check it out and if it's bad, I'll go get my truck." ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?! He also said it was going to take him 30-40 minutes to get here, this was at 8:57PM... Will got home a little before 10 and the plumber was still NOT there. Will couldn't believe what he was seeing and said it smelled fowl, which it totally did. FINALLY, at 10:20 the plumber shows up. Lucky him, he couldn't smell exactly how bad it was because he said he was getting over a cold or something. He also couldn't figure out why everything was flooded, until coming to the conclusion that something must've burst under the living room area to make there be a puddle before the hall. Actually, it was a BIG puddle. He also noticed my closet was damp...Great I was thinking about Will's dresser and my boxes being on the floor. He said there was nothing he could do that night because he needed some assistance or something. We knew we couldn't stay in that smell and that we'd have to go get a hotel, on management of course. I called her back and explained a little what happened and she said ok and for me to call the carper place... OH YEAH, forgot to mention that too... We got our carpet cleaned on JUNE 7TH... Yeah seems like that was for nothing too...ESPECIALLY since it's damaged and stinky now... BUT it's also in the room now. Will was heated.

Back to what I was saying...I told her we needed to stay at a hotel and she said that's fine "but not too expensive!!" Once again ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?! I told her, "Well it's not gonna be cheap!" She said that's fine. Well, we're in a 2 bedroom 2 bath suite... YUP I said that. Matt and Star need a place to stay too...BUT she also had THE NERVE to ask me, "You don't have family you can stay with?" UMMMM NO!!! DO YOU FREAKIN' KNOW WHAT TIME IT IS??? LOL IT WAS AFTER 11PM!!! [Promise I didn't say that to her, but I sure was thinking it!!!]

So I had an appointment to get fitted for my dress today in Norwalk at 10 and told the plumber I wouldn't be available until after that. He said that wasn't a problem, to just call when I got home.  I made a small stop because it was down the street and it would make life easier on me. I headed home and called him when I got home, this was before 12PM. I also called the carpet cleaners and explained what happened and the guy told me he could send a guy out to do an estimate because there's no telling how much damage is done. He called back shortly after and said they were swamped and couldn't make it until Monday. I said ok and called the manager back. She didn't answer and I immediately called the plumber to find out where he was, he said he'd get to me in 30-40 minutes [he must love that number]. I talked to Will's mom for about a half an hour and still no plumber. He didn't show up until like 1:30PM. He came in with a huge snake and snaked out the shower and then came in with a jack hammer...yes jack hammer!! I was stuck bored while watching him cut up the carpet and make this GInormous hole in my living room. I kept thinking this can't be right. I called the manager once again and was finally able to get a hold of her. She told me she's been with the guy for 20 years and he knows what he's doing, not to worry about the mess they were making and that cost was being taken care of. GOOD because it's bad enough that we have to get 2 more nights here! There's no way we can stay in the fumes and everything SHOULD be done by TUESDAY...Yeah we'll see about that...

[A little note, I had something typed and it didn't save all the way. I wish you guys could have seen it, but this vent is good enough for now. I was trying to post pictures, but it's not allowing me... best believe you'll see them and think WTF? You'll be glad you can't smell it for sure!]

Have a good one...  more to come later!

Sunday, May 30, 2010

Well....

It most definitely has been a while. Apologies. I feel like I have been one busy girl, when in reality I haven't. Let's see... I got a job with the US Census, however, I was let go because I had an out of town function that was already paid for. The job was a temporary one anyway. I am back on the search and so far, I have heard back from one place... I have a job interview Tuesday at 12:30. Hope all goes well. So while I was out of town, the girls in Candice's wedding went shoe shopping. Myself and another bridesmaid still need shoes. I have some I can wear, but I would like to buy another pair just to have... since a girl can NEVER have too many shoes ;-)

On that note [Candice's wedding], her Bridal Shower was yesterday and I must say it was GORGEOUS! Her sister-in-law [bridesmaid], mom, and MOH [Maid of Honor] did an AMAZING job! I can't wait until the Bachelorette party!!!

I don't know what more to say. SO I think I will just end here =) Have a good one!

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

It's only "FITTING"

I know I haven't posted in a while, and I don't have much time now.... BUT....

I CAN FIT IN MY OLD PAIR OF DICKIES!!!



There needs to be a little explanation... So I had these Dickies when I worked at the bowling alley, only I couldn't wear them to work because of the color... I bought them because I had black ones and figured I could bowl in these for turnaments... Anywho, I think the last time I officially wore these were 2 weeks before Will and I became official...ALMOST 6 YEARS AGO!! After doing the 30 Day Shred, I tried to put them on, but they didn't fit... I couldn't button or zip them up...What was worse is that Will put them on with no problem, but reassured me I was losing because all his weight is in his belly... I was devastated... Candice didn't know why he put them on, but I think it was motivation...I feel a lot different after starting the 30 Day Jumpstart and the Biggest Loser Las Chance Workout... Now I know it's paying off for sure. The pants are a little snug, but you can bet your bottom dollar I am rocking these today! Can't wait until they fit me like before. OMG I could cry <3

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Another one...

So it has definitely been a while. I am still looking for a job, but I did get something with the Census. I am happy and grateful for it, but it is a temporary job. It will last for 6 weeks. But hey, 6 weeks is better than nothing. Especially since I will be getting a paycheck.

Lately, I have been unhappy with myself and confided in Jenalee about it. It's a mixture of things, but for the most part it's me not having a job and my weight. I can't say that I am not trying to find a job and the weight part, well she put it into the greatest word "you control your weight so do something about it." I have been working out but I felt highly unmotivated, EVEN with Candice's wedding being just around the corner. I was in Vegas last week and told myself to bring a DVD to workout. I decided to bring a DVD I hadn't opened since I got it for Christmas from my sister, The Biggest Loser 30-Day Jump Start. I was browsing and saw that it had a workout plan. I became really into it because it has it mapped out: Week 1- 10 minute workouts for 6 days a week [**ALL DAYS VARY**]; Week 2 - 20 minute workouts; Week 3 - 30 minute workouts; and Week 4 - 40 minute workouts. I even turned my boyfriend on to doing this with me. I got even more excited when looking at the cover "Lose up to 3 inches off your waist!" it also said for MAXIMUM results combine with The Biggest Loser Last Chance Workout. I bought the Last Chance workout on Sunday =) We started on Monday, but he is only doing the Jump Start with me, the Last Chance one is 6 weeks. I don't mind though because it's baby steps. If he likes it he should continue with me. He even is going to renew his membership with 24 Hour Fitness [BTW - I saw that if you go into 24 Hour Fitness and mention the Biggest Loser Special, your initiation fee is WAIVED!]. This is great. We made a plan to do this and to eat better; well be stricter than we were. I cook out of the Biggest Loser Cookbook and The Most Decadent Diet...Ever book. As you can tell I am excited. I had Candice measure me on Tuesday and I am a little more happy with the measurements. I think I lost a little since the fitting, which is good. Now I have until the end of May to go for another fitting with, hopefully, dramatic results =)

On a sad note. I received news on April 10th that a very close friend of the family had passed away. I was pretty broken up. I didn't show it, but I was. I could only hear him whistle for his daughter Jenni. They lived across the street from my mom's house and moved. But we all grew up together. His funeral was yesterday [since it's now after midnight]. It was a sad but good time. God wanted him home and took him from us; he was 55 years YOUNG! I know he is up there CANCER FREE, shining down on us =) RIP FRANK DIAZ.

The bad news keeps coming though... I found out Tuesday morning, someone my mom bowled with lost his battle with Cancer as well. He had a brain tumor and he is no longer suffering. May Daryl Evans Sr. RIP as well.

I believe that is all, I thought I would update you followers on what's going on in my life. I get sworn in TODAY and fingerprinted [standard procedure for a Federal job]. Next week I start training =) Goodnight/Morning!!

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Motivation

So I have been sick. Well trying to fight it, but it has been getting the best of me. On Monday I broke down and bought some NyQuil, since that morning I woke up coughing and my chest was burning. I also hadn't been able to sleep. What sucks is this all came from a stomach ache I had on Wednesday. Hopefully, I am at the end of that.

This past Saturday I was fitted for Candice's wedding. I was VERY disappointed in the measurements [It made me think of the fact that I didn't measure myself before doing the 30-Day Shred]. But the chest part is what's getting me the most. There's no way I am THAT big [sorry not sharing]. Anyway, that became my motivation. The woman making the dress said if we lose weight by the end of May to come back and be remeasured. I WILL make that number lower! HAHA. I also had an interview on Saturday. Actually, it was more of a waste of time if you ask me. It took me over an hour to get there. Parking was INSANE. I finally find a place across the street from the building and walk toward the lobby [at this point I am on time]. In the lobby there were at least 20 people, INCLUDING myself, who were waiting to go up to the 4th floor. Apparently, there was only ONE security guard to let people up. We finally just went in the elevator and prayed it would go up to the 4th floor. We get to the suite and there's AT LEAST 20 people in there! Seriously I was disappointed I rushed there. What made it worse, is that they weren't honoring our appointment times, they called us in the order we signed in... AND it gets worse...I paid $0.75 to park for an hour and I waited for over 40 mins...THEN when I got called into the room my "interview" lasted LESS THAN 2 minutes. It turns out there are 3 positions available and they were interviewing people in the same style from 9-3. My chances of getting that job aren't looking great. I wasn't too worried about that because I had an interview yesterday [Tuesday].

Mind you I took some NyQuil on Monday night. Tuesday morning I woke up feeling groggy as ever! Good thing the interview was scheduled for 4:45 AND it was near Miller Barondess =) So I was completely familiar with where it was. I showed up a little, ok an hour [when I parked] early. You can't chance LA traffic, I'm just saying. I met with 2 women and PERSONALLY I think the interview went well. Never have I felt this way about an interview, but as we were walking out she said they'll be calling for 2nd round interviews next week. I was pretty excited. Then I thought, I have been on one before and that didn't turn out too well. We will see.

Today was the day! I decided enough is enough. I got off my BUTT and headed to the gym. I took my phlemmy self to the gym. I did the elliptical for 45 minutes! I am so proud of myself. Man was I sweaty. I also weighed myself AND I have not lost OR gained anything. I guess you can say that's good because I did drop like a size and a half, so that's good INCH wise =)

My new plan is this: Mon-Fri Get up and go to the gym, rest and workout with Jillian or vice versa. When I get a job it will be gym first and Jillian after. I would like to lose 25 pounds by the end of May. The way I see it, that will be a good amount lost to get remeasured and then by the time Candice's wedding is here [July 3rd], well before then if it needs to be taken in, it won't be too drastic. I need this. Not only for the wedding, but for me. I am not too happy when I look in the mirror, but I am working on it =)

OOOOOOOOOOOOOH 1 last thing... I got a call int he last 5 minutes of my gym time on the elliptical I get a call from the Census. I got the job! I report on April 21st. The thing is, if I get anything before then I will call them and let them know. I am really crossing my fingers. The Census job will last for 6 weeks and I would have to work a minimum of 24 hours a week. That way if I have interviews, I can still make time for them. That's exciting if you ask me =)

That's all for now! Have a good one!

BTW - Congrats to Jenalee and her husband Joel, on moving into their NEW home! I am so happy for them =)

Monday, March 29, 2010

Today March 29th

My sister is 21! I feel old =( More to come later... If I remember

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Nothing

I feel a little BLAH today. I was texting Candice earlier and told her I feel good. I mean I do and I promise I wasn't lying. I need to work out and I am trying to find anything to do so I don't have to. LOL it's so not working though. It's only 20 minutes. What's my problem? I have no idea.

Just a little rant before I start my workout. I am on Level 2 this week. Saturday is closer. I cannot wait. Getting fitted for a dress <3

Oh and tomorrow I am going to AppleOne, an employment agency. I need all the help I can get right about now. I can't depend on Will for everything and I am bowling just to be able to bowl the next week. I don't know how much longer that's going to last though. Anywho, I am meeting with them tomorrow so they can assist me in finding a job. I applied for a legal assistant, or secretary [pretty much the same thing] position on Monster and I got a response to register and what not. Hopefully, they can help me. My fingers are crossed and I have Hebrews 11:1 to thank... also Candice's mom who turned me on to that.

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
-Hebrews 11:1

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

My laugh of the day!

I walked across the street to Vons to pick up some things for dinner. I get what I need and walk out. There's these 2 guys standing there. One says to me "Hey pretty lady, you dropped something." I turned to him and looked cause I knew I didn't drop anything. He then says "A conversation...Can we pick it up over here?"

The guy standing next to him started busting up. I even laughed. All I could think to say was "No, sorry, I have to go make dinner..." I walked away laughing.

Just to let you know, no boobs were showing [normally they would be showing lol]. I had on a green tank from Old Navy with a flower design, shorts, and flip flops.

What was I thinking?

Last week I didn't work out because I was having a MAJOR case of being a woman. Felt like I was hit by a train. I started on Level 1 again with Jillian and let me tell you, my arms HATE me! It's a good hate though I am sure. I also got an email from Miller Barondess, LLP. about needing me again, but then got another one stating that the numbers aren't what they were expecting so they may not need me [my luck just keeps getting better, I say sarcastically]. HOWEVER, I did get a letter of recommendation that I HOPE will help me. I PRAY it will help me. I applied to more places and I will be applying to more. I am not giving up. I can't.

On another note, a follower of mine suggested to her followers to try SwagBucks. I am loving this site because in the end I will be able to cash in my swagbucks for FREE gift cards. If you could do me a favor and search the widget I placed below. It's just like Google and Yahoo!




Hope you guys are wearing green! Have a good one!

Monday, March 15, 2010

Well...

It finally came. The dreaded email from MAK:

Dear Arisha:

We would like to thank you for showing interest and taking the time to interview for the legal assistant position with our firm. This letter will serve to inform you that the position you were interviewing for has been filled.
We wish you well in your future endeavors.
Thank you.

I know that no one likes rejection, but I don't want that to be the story of my life. I absolutely HATE not having a job. I mean people who have jobs complain about their jobs and envy people who sit around at home, let me assure you, it's NOT fun. There's only so much cleaning I can do AND nothing on TV. I just applied for over 30 jobs on Craigslist. I am still not giving up, but I am losing patience. I pray God can bless me with a job. I know if he's bringing this struggle to me that he knows I can handle it and I WILL get through it. I just hope it is sooner than later because my sister has until today to move out of Will and my place. She is on some other stuff right now [like a crazy bug hit her]. There's more detail but I don't think it's fair to talk about her in this blog; the only reason I am bringing this up is because I need to have some kind of income to make rent. The money I got from the previous job covered my rent through April [which is next month!]. Needless to say I am getting stressed. Thankfully this blog is allowing me to vent a bit.

Nothing too exciting has happened lately, worth sharing, LoL.

I need to start working out again. I took a week off due to some MAJOR feminine issues. I need to get back on the grind.

Have a good one!

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Third Time is NOT a Charm =(

So this morning I wake up and I am not even up long when I receive this email:

Dear Arisha,

Thank you for taking the time to come in to meet with me last week, I am not able to offer you a position at this time. Please understand that there were many applicants and it is a very difficult decision making process. I will be happy to keep your information on file in the event that other opportunities arise in the future. Again, thank you for all your efforts and best wishes.


Needless to say I was PRETTY bummed. But I figured that was ok because I felt I would get the job in Long Beach. I was invited back for a Second Round interview. I met with the attorney on Monday and it sounded beyond promising. He told me they would know by the end of the week. Well, it's the end of the week I guess because this afternoon I received this email:

Arisha:

Thank you for interviewing for the legal assistant position with our firm.
At this time, the position has been filled.
We will keep your resume on hand in case our hiring needs change in the near future.
We wish you much success in your future endeavors.

Double =(

2 rejections in 1 day? Really? Wow! I am sad. I thought the interviews went well. Especially the one in Long Beach because I was invited back. With the first one the lawyer was FASCINATED that I bowled and it lasted longer than 15 minutes [the time he alotted for the interviews]. I thought I would actually get both jobs and have to choose. Well guess that choice is easy because I don't have to choose. I still have been sending out resumes. But I need to focus more. I don't have long to find a job, that's for sure. I have bills that need to be paid and I am now starting to worry about my finances. I still haven't heard from MAK, but I am not holding my breath. The interviewer STILL hasn't emailed me back and she told me that's the best way to reach her. Yeah right!

I would just like to add that I am feeling Jenalee. On Monday she posted a song by Bryan White and I am feeling that way. I really do feel like I am wishing on someone else's star and someone else keeps getting what I'm wishing for! And why can't I be as lucky as those other people are? With the same respect, yesterday she posted this song that is so beautiful, it's called LOVE LIKE CRAZY <3 Look it up, it's by Lee Brice

Monday, March 8, 2010

Being a Woman

Sometimes sucks!

Friday, March 5, 2010

Third Time's a Charm?

Last year when I was on the job hunt, I was getting really discouraged because I was sending out a bunch of resumes and receiving no response. My good buddy candice told me that it takes time and that people don't respond right away. Well I am feeling like that now. Last week I was called in for an interview at a very prestigious law firm. I honestly thought the interview went well because the interviewer was talking to me like I already had the job. PLUS I was dreaming that I got the job there as well [I took that as a good sign]. I haven't heard back from them, when I was told they would let me know Monday or Tuesday. On Monday Yamo's brother Kevin said it was a good sign I didn't find out right away because if you get a quick response, it's typically a rejection. That helped me stay positive.

I got a call Wednesday [I believe] to interview at a small law firm on Friday at 12:30. I took the interview and I figured that if things changed, like if I got the job at MAK, I would just cancel the email. Still nothing from them. I am not going to pass up the opportunity to get a job. PLUS if I am meant to be there, then I will get there eventually.

So today I spent the day with Will, Krischna, and little Miss. Kaylyn. They practiced and I babysat. We came back to the house and Will left to get his hair braided. Krischna and I were taking care of Avon business. At 6:20 PM my phone rings and it's a (562) number. I am thinking it's a potential customer for Avon. NOPE! It was a law firm in Long Beach wanting to know if I was still interested in being their legal assistant. She gave me a mini phone interview and I guess she liked what she heard because she set up a meeting/interview with me for Friday as well. I like what I heard about the company as well. It's a good schedule and the way I see it, it's kind of close to the house =)

So YES, I have TWO interviews tomorrow, or should I say, later today!! One is at 12:30 and then the other is at 3. I hope I make it to the second one on time. The first one is in Los Angeles. I will call if I am running late. I am so excited! And it just goes to show that it does take time for people to respond to resumes sent out. I just hate waiting. Hopefully it pays off. Now off to try and get some sleep =)

Friday, February 26, 2010

MAK

Dear God,

I had my interview today. I think it went well. Hopefully, I am right. I should find out Monday or Tuesday because they are looking for 2 people I think immediately and then more after that. The way my interviewer was talking, it seemed as if I was handed the job. I think this is something I definitely want to do. I think I can handle it as well. It's VERY fact paced. This is what I went to college for. Please help me get this position.

Amen

P.S. Other prayers are welcomed.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Great News!

So the boxspring situation was straightened out, the best it possibly could. This morning a friend of mine was being down on himself on Facebook so I tried to offer words of encouragement:

This is what he put: "never has good luck with anything in life. everything that was good just be torn apart. for some reason."

My response: "You and me both... but you gotta keep looking up and staying positive. God doesn't make you go through anything you can't handle. I am slowly learning that. Don't worry things will get better and luck your luck will change :)" After he responded with a "thank you" I also replied "No problem. Oh and remember, someone out there is going through something worse. I am trying to have a new outlook on life so that good things will happen :)"

Apparently I was right. A good friend of ours car was broken into and important stuff was taken. My point was proven. THEN I was sitting here researching possible jobs because I had got an email from this one place and was checking if it was legit. All of a sudden my cell rings. It's someone from Milstein, Adelman & Kreger, LLP.. She was requesting me to come in for an interview on Friday at 2 for the position of a Legal Assistant! WOOOO WOOO!!! I am so excited.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Patience

A word that I am not. I am probably the most impatient person ever, well probably not, but am not very patient. Today, my patience was tested yet again. When Will and I moved in here in June 2009, I brought Queen sized bed because it's bigger than his [full] and it's new. I didn't even have it a year before my mom kicked me out and it went into storage. Anywho, I guess because the bed frame was taken apart it wouldn't be the same as it was. It's from Ikea and the frame is now weak. I cannot get in on my side, so I am stuck getting in either through the middle or before Will gets in on his side. My goal was to buy a bed with one of my checks from the firm I was working at, but those plans changed because other stuff had to be payed for. Our buddy Lee Lee told me about this place that sold mattresses for cheap. We just need a frame and a boxspring so I decided to give the place a call. They told me last week it would be $40 for the boxspring and $30 for the frame. A score if you ask me. Will found out he'd be getting his tax return this week and we agreed we could wait one more week to get the stuff. I called this afternoon and the guy told me I didn't have to go in and order it, I could just do it over the phone. He took my name, address and what not and told me it would be delivered between 6:30 and 7. Guess what! It's almost 10 PM and no boxspring or frame. Plus I called the place and the phone keeps ringing. Will came home after his first job and took the bed apart so that we could make room for the new and now we will be sleeping on the floor.

I guess I can't really complain because I can get in on whatever side I want and I will get it all taken care of tomorrow. I just hate waiting. Waiting is becoming the story of my life again. When we first moved in here and I lost my job at MySpace, I was waiting for the people to come fix what hadn't been done before we moved in. I was waiting almost everyday for someone to come and do a repair and then I was waiting to hear back from a job I had applied to. Seems like I am back in the same routine. The last time I got a good job out of it, hopefully the same thing will happen again. I will continue praying.

On another note. I started Level 2 this week again, this time with the weights, and wow are my arms sore. But I am loving the feeling of knowing that it is still working. I have been sweating so much it's crazy, but I know it's worth it =)

Monday, February 22, 2010

=(

I miss Candice.

That's all I wanted to say... oh and that I really need a job.

God please hear my prayer, Amen.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Chicken!

Ha ha ha! As you can see I had trouble with the title for this entry...I made some grilled chicken burgers on the George Foreman tonight, again [just in case I posted it already].

A little recap of my week. I did Level 1 last Tuesday and said I would do Level 2 on Wednesday and Level 3 on Thursday... Well that didn't happen. The boil on my thigh got the best of me. I was going to try and push through it, but it was bad [blood and all]. I decided to rest it.

Friday morning we headed to Laughlin. Crazy drive for sure! LoL Will cracked me up when he saw a sign reading "Last Chance Fuel 1/2 mile" He got all freaked out... Too funny! So we get to Laughlin and I notice it really isn't anything spectacular, sorry. Plus, we had THE worst reception ever! Like worse than where we live and let me tell you service is pretty crappy here. We had dinner with Krischna at IHOP in Arizona =) LoL Arizona is across the river. Thought I would share that. They bowled "Battle of the Sexes" and then we went to kick it with some friends.

We woke up late on Saturday. It was ok for me because I was just a spectator in Laughlin. Will was late and didn't get any practice in, but he bowled well. We also went to see Valentine's Day. It was so cute! I liked it. Will did too! If you haven't seen it, you should. Will and Krischna bowled a doubles tourney after the movie and then we just hung out the rest of the night [there's more details but I don't want to bore you].

We woke up Sunday and headed back to Cali. Man did it feel good to be coming home. On the trip home Krischna and Lee Lee [Jeremy's Aunt] came back with us [Krischna had to be at work at 3 and Lee Lee needed to make it back to league with Will and I]. That was a fun drive home. We napped before league. I thought we'd bowl pretty good, but the other team was carrying all kinds of BS! [sorry if you don't know any of this bowling lingo, but that's who I am...a bowler]. After league we [me, Will, Jerry and his girlfriend, and Will's mom] went to Chili's. I was a little uncomfortable having Will's mom with us, but it wasn't so bad. We all shared several laughs.

No workout on Monday. I figured Tuesday's a good day to workout. So today I worked out and did Level 1. I decided I am going to continue the 30-Day Shred Monday-Friday, taking the weekends off. I saw results and I think if I keep pushing that I can do it. I also need to start going back to the gym, since I am paying for it... It's just so hard going alone... Perhaps Candice can go with me? =) We shall see...

Ok I think I bored you all enough... Good night [or morning, afternoon]!

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Worth the "Weight(s)" ?

So like I said yesterday in my blog, I decided to work out with Jillian this week on Level 1, 2, & 3. I did Level 1 yesterday with the weights and man oh man do I feel accomplished! I did it without stopping. YES the Jumping Jacks and Jump Ropes WITHOUT stopping.

This morning... whole other story... haha I couldn't get out of bed. LoL. Well not funny. My back hurts. This isn't like the Day 1 though. No no. This is welcoming the weights. Oh and I have this boil like thing on my right thigh that is KILLING me. It hurts so bad. Making me walk like an old lady for sure. Speaking of being an old lady, the youngest girl I used to babysit, Sydney, is 9 today! I was 15 when she was born and now she is 9. What makes it worse is that her oldest sister is going to be 18 next Wednesday! Seriously where does the time go?

I figured out how to insert the pics. Candice your diections were confusing. Maybe I did it how you said, not sure. I can't believe I am posting these, here are my pics [as promised]:

Before

After:

The thing I liked most about this workout is that I have shape to my butt =) I have also found that my clothes are fitting a bit looser. I thing that's progress and because I am going to keep going on working out, I know these things will only get better. Hopefully you guys see the difference because there is.

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Vitamins

LoL So I couldn't think of anything to title this entry. I started taking vitamins again. I stopped taking them last year because they expired and never bought any more. I finally bought some more from Costco and I will be taking those every day.

I haven't worked out since Staturday [Day 30]. I decided I would take a break until Tuesday [that's today!] I think I am going to do Level 1 today, Level 2 tomorrow and Level 3 Thursday. We are going to Laughlin this weekend for Will's tournament club. I get to spend Valentine's Day on the road coming back home, but I will be with MY Valentine, so I am not complaining at all.

Next week I am going to do The Biggest Loser DVD my sister bought me. The DVD consists of five 10 minute Jump-Start workouts. I can either do the 10 minute 1 or combine them all or some. I think I will measure myself soon [probably next week], I have to get a measurer.

I decided this past weekend that I was going to start sending resumes out on Monday [yesterday]. I sent out a few, but today I sent a WHOLE bunch on Monster. Hopefully, I get a call for an interview. In the meantime I am staying POSITIVE because "the best things come to those who wait!"

P.S. Anything you guys think I should write about on here? Post it in a comment.
P.S.S :) I will be posting pictures TONIGHT or TOMORROW...I will be taking the pictures very shortly!

Sunday, February 7, 2010

30-Shred: Day 30

I AM DONE!

Well not really... LoL but I did finish day 30 last night! I was so excited. I thought I wouldn't finish. I thought I would give up. I will be posting pictures within the next few days. I also need to find someone with a scale I can use. I would like to know how much weight I lost. Sometimes when I look in the mirror I see a difference and other times I look and think it didn't pay off... BUT I have more of a curve look to my body =) And I have definition in my back =)

What I meant by not really is that I am going to alternate videos if I don't like the DVD my sister bought me [I have been reading reviews for it and people are complaining, I gotta see for myself though]. I would also like to try Levels 1 & 2 with the 5lb weights =) I feel majorly accomplished =)

Today, I ate horrible, but it was SO good =) <--LOL another reason I need to continue working with Jillian... Oh and I am going to try and go back to the gym [I need a buddy though], after all I am still paying for it!

P.S. Can someone tell me how to post pictures because I don't know how to? =)

Friday, February 5, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 28 & 29

Man blogging is not crossing my mind but I have to update you guys on what's going on.

Day 28 - I still struggled through the "scissor crunches." I also came to the conclusion that I can sleep easier when I workout and shower at night. I was super sweaty and was running aroungd ALL day yesterday. I went on a customer search, drove all over the place, made a delivery, went to Costco, took Krischna home, brought Lee Lee her phone because she left it in my livingroom, dropped off bill payments at the post office, well in the box, headed home, worked out, showered, and made a LATE dinner [pizza from Costco...delicious!]

Day 29 - The craziest workout. I was gone almost all day with Will. He had practice session and then after that we had to go with him to get his hair braided because traffic was so bad and it was raining [the biggest factor in the traffic]. When he was done there we went to eat at Red Robin, that was yummy. I was trying to figure out how to workout tonight because my sister didn't go out tonight and she's watching TV in the livingroom and Will was in our room watching the rest of the Lakers Game. I asked him if I would be a distraction if I worked out behind him. Sounds crazy but he was on one side of the bed so I was on my side. If you knew what my room looked like you'd see. But yeah I worked out WITH him in the room. Super weird. I think this is the most I have sweat during a Level 3 workout. I think that's partly because the heater's on because it's cold out and partly because I was pushing myself more hard than normal...I mean it is ONE DAY before my last. I don't think I am ready to be done with this workout, but I am VERY proud of myself.

Oh yeah, I did ALL the SCISSOR CRUNCHES!!! Go me! Day 30 tomorrow =)

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

30-day Shred: Day 26 & 27

Ok all I have to say is these "scissors" are KILLING me! I think those are the only thing I cannot do without stopping! 3 more days to get it right...

Nothing else really... oh that plank thing before the superman things... umm...I swear I am doing them wrong LOL.

That is all =)

Monday, February 1, 2010

30-Day SHred: Day 24 & 25

Ok so this is funny! Today I was chatting with a friend online and I was looking at the time. I like to work out when no one is here because I feel more comfortable [however if someone is here it's fine because I can work out in my room or in the livingroom and they stay in their rooms for about 25 mins]. Anyway, I told my friend be back in a bit because I was going to work out. Then I put an away message on my AIM saying: "Working out on Day 24!" The reason it's funny is because TODAY was DAY 25!! LOL. Am I liking it so much that I am trying to do it longer? LoL

Day 24 - Last night I completed Day 24 after a trip to Olive Garden. The food was yummy and the portion was smaller. I think I deserved a trip there because I have been really good about what I am eating. Not all health nutty but portion wise. Last night was also my first time using weights, 5 pound ones to be exact. I thought I was going to die at first, but then I actually did it and felt EVEN better. I wish I had the weights starting at Day 1. Now I know that when I finish this and do other workouts I can go back to this one and do ANY Level and feel AWESOME. I mean that's my opinion. I am talking this workout up so much that people want to burn it and I am already lending it to Candice after, who is by the way starting Chalene Extreme today and I wish her the best of luck with that =)

Day 25 - TODAY! 5 more days to go. I feel like it has went by fast and I am a little bummed I skipped 3 days. I would be done Wednesday if I didn't. I mean I really liked doing these workouts but I would be done LOL. But I am proud that I haven't quit and said screw it, I was just a tad busy on those days. I found myself getting tired a little quicker doing the "mountain thrusts" and the "scissor crunches" oh man I need to not stop on these. They feel so good to do, but are taking a toll. My goal for tomorrow's workout is to NOT stop!

On a little side note, I feel, in a way, getting let go from my the job has made it easier to get this done, but I need to look for a job ASAP in the mean time I am going to focus a little more on Avon, to help out my upline manager who is my boyfriend's sister. If any of you are interested in purchasing Avon, please visit my site: www.youravon.com/arishapiper you will be helping me out in a big way, this will be my only income until I find something, THANKS! Have a wonderful rest of day/night! <3

Saturday, January 30, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 22 & 23

Day 22 - was a good one! I sweat a lot and felt like I did nothing when I actually did. I love the sumo squat jump things. I also like the sit ups Anita style. I never thought I could do those again, thought wrong and that's a good thing.

Day 23 - another good one! I am feeling the Superman stretch =) You can actually feel it in your stomach. Jillian said this should be the 6-pack stage, but I am not that small so uh yeah. But I can feel it and I think that's all that matters. Rockstar jumps are a little difficult because I am scared I am jumping too hard. Other than that, sweat was good =)

Going to a going away/birthday dinner tonight at a buffet...don't worry, I'll be good =)

Thursday, January 28, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 21

WOOO HOO! Started Day 21 on Level 3 today! It was SOOOOOOO [I could put more O's on here LoL] much easier than Level 2...Maybe Level 1 as well. I guess it's a little award for making it this far. I know I could do better on it though, but I was watching the introduction to the moves. So tomorrow I will be ready. I also need to invest in weights or borrow some, because these pea cans [upgraded from the chili cans] won't hold up when I am doing the lifts with the weights and legs. I feel AMAZING though. Although, Level 3 didn't seem to be much work to me, best believe I sweat. Man did I sweat.

I can't do the mountain thrusts, I think that's what they're called. I do them like Anita, which still works if you ask me. I also did Anita style "walking push-ups" because I was watching how they're done. I totally think I can do them though =) [watch out now!] This level seemed to be the quickest as well. I think the 10, well 9 days now, should go quickly.

Happy Shredding =)

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 19 & 20

After posting yesterday, I worked out. I planned on working out early because Will was going to sub at Santa Clarita. But that didn't happen because he got off work later. Man I was hungry. We had WingStop last night...So delicious! I had Carrot sticks and 2 pieces of BBQ strips.

TODAY I COMPLETED DAY 20!!! I am DONE with Level 2! Thank you Jesus! I am graduating myself to Level 3. 10 more days to go. I made sure I pushed myself to finish with no breaks. The ab part at the end kills me. I pushed through but had to take that 5 second break like Jillian says we can take. I felt majorly accomplished today.

Right now I am making dinner, Chicken Parmesan, from The Biggest Loser Cookbook: Family Edition. Currently, I am making the sauce that takes at least an hour to make. It's almost done, but I had the chance to blog. I didn't want to forget to update you guys on my accomplishment.

I LOVE Candice! She makes it all worth it. I text her when I complete my workouts and she always has something positive to say. She's making it all worth it. Besides the fact that Jillian Michaels is making me feel great while kicking my butt. My knees are hurting a bit, but all is well.

Okie Dokie... Sauce is done! Until tomorrow [I start Level 3] =)

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 18

I am counting down the days to being done with this Level 2. I know I can advance myself anytime I want, but I set this standard for myself and I wouldl like to stick to it. Only 2 more days and I am done with this level. Honestly, I liked level 1 better.

My legs hurt a little, but have been after every workout. They feel a little crampy I guess.

I need to push myself a little more because there's only 2 days of this left and I don't know what to expect from Level 3. I think it's the plank positions that are killing me. I will survive. I just feel how Jillian wants us to feel "...like you're going to die!"

On that note...lol I am going to go live a little =)

Monday, January 25, 2010

30-Day Shred: 15/16/17

Ok so I haven't been on here for a while. A lot has happened. On Thursday, Day 15, we were told that they were going to be downsizing at work because we were coming to an end on the case [well our part of the Doc. Review]. I went home and completed Day 15!!! I am half way done =) I sweat so much. I showered and made the dinner I told you guys about. It was a hit again =)

So Friday I woke up and dreaded the email I would receive at the end of the day. We were told to work from home on Friday and Saturday because Selia [the Associate managing the Doc. Review] was going to be out of town and no one was going to sub for her. I worked from 10:15-2:30 and showered. I sat around for a bit and left my email up. At 5:01 I got the email saying I was let go. I wasn't as sad as I thought I would be. I am just disappointed I didn't get to say good-bye to my new friends. I completed Day-16 and had a great movie night with Will. We watched "Stomp the Yard."

Saturday I didn't work out =( I planned on it, but I was spending time with Will and then we had friends over and it became too late to work out.

Sunday I planned on waking up early and working out. Yeah well that didn't happen. Sleep felt too good. I woke up and dropped Will off at work and came back home with every intention of washing clothes and working out. Well I was going to sleep a bit longer and wake up at 8. Before I knew it I was sleeping a little too long. But that's what happens when you wake up early and go back to sleep. So then I knew I needed to work out after bowling league last night. It was perfect too because Will opened this morning so I knew I would have the livingroom to myself. My sister was home, but I told her I needed to workout, she didn't mind because she needed to get stuff ready for school.

So here's where I am. I have completed 17 days of the 30-Day Shred. I feel good and I am actually starting to notice a difference. It would be nice to hear it from someone though. I mean Will agrees, but I think he's just saying it to make me feel good. I can fit in my "skinny jeans" after they've been in the dryer. I want my stomach to show it a little more. I also wore the shirt I wore on my birthday, yesterday and it was a little loose =) I am really glad I have some blogs to read, that I can relate to and Candice as my motivator. I seriously don't know what I would do without her.

My foot's hurting. I don't know if it's my ankle or what, but I am determined to finish the workout and start my next one. I still cannot do the squat thrusts like Natalie, but the ones like Anita, well they do just fine LoL. Plank Jacks will NEVER be done by me! HA HA Anita's style is better. Lastly, I think I am doing the last part of abs on Level 2 wrong. But I am still trying to keep up. OH! I also can't do the double jumpropes, BUT I am able to COMPLETE the single ones from Level 1 [with Anita] all the way WITHOUT stopping. That's progress if you ask me =)

3 more days and I am done with Level 2 and on to Level 3! Dun dun dun! LOL. Alrighty, I think this is long enough... Until tomorrow and another day closer... Have a good one!

Thursday, January 21, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 14

1 more day and I am HALF WAY DONE!!

So after yesterday's wonderful day, I was able to workout at like 10:15. I headed to Target when I finished work to pick up something to make for dinner last night and for tonight's dinner. The stuff they sell there is cheaper than the store. I bought 2 cans of Hunts Crushed Tomatoes and they were priced $1.34 each. At Vons they are almost, if not over $3. Insane! I just thought I would share that Tuesday night I made Shrimp Quesadilla's courtesy of The Biggest Loser Cookbook- Family Edition. They were so yummy! Last night I just made some of the Pasta Barilla meals and the sauce for tonight's dinner...Pizza Bread [courtesy of The Most Decadent Diet Ever --Devin Alexander] =) I made it once and it was a hit, but with work I pre-made the sauce because it takes at least an hour to make.

Back to the workout....I am happy to say I have been sweating like no other. Dripping on the floor and in my eyes. Man it's insane, but I am totally loving it =) I HATE the plank squat things! I can't force myself to jump, so I have been following Anita...The same with the Plank Jacks. I am determined by the end of my 10th day doing Level 2, to do them "Natalie Style" <-- Well not so much the high knees, but the other plank stuff.

All and all it's been great. However, my left foot's been hurting. I think it's these boots I am wearing. But the cramp's back. Hopefully, it gets better.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 13

Man what a day. I always put an update up when I am at work, but not today. LoL. I woke up late and was lazy this morning. Then I wasn't thinking because I totally FORGOT my lap top, THE most important thing I need for work, besides myself. What sucks is my dumb self didn't realize it until I pulled into the structure and was getting out of my car. Anywho...

I am almost half way complete! I was so excited after Day 13's workout. I super pushed myself through it. I so can do a push up. Well kinda. I can't go down all the way but I am making progress. I was sooooooooooooo sweaty. I had a nice, relaxing, quick shower after.

I am really starting to notice a difference. The sad thing is my goal is to fit in 2 pairs of pants I have. Hopefully, that happens because when I was at Kohl's on Sunday, I tried on these shorts and they didn't fit. They were a size smaller than my "skinny jeans" that are becoming rather loose. I would like to think it's the material, actually it probably is. But ulitimately that's my goal. I'd like to fit in the pants but I would actually like them to be BIGGER =)

That's all for now!

[I am working from home now...I took a half day so that I can be with my notes and what not]

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 12

WOW is all I can say. After my previous post I realized how bad my legs were hurting and I still hadn't worked out. I pushed myself to work out and did FAR better than the first day on Level 2. I did more things. I still am having problems with the push up position things. LoL which is pretty much EVERYTHING. But like I said I did WAY better. I felt great after this workout and took a nice warm shower after. I am so not looking forward to going home tonight =( one reason being this workout. Until then....

Monday, January 18, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 10 & 11

After work on Friday, I came home, picked Will up, and we went to get the rental car. I was trying to wait to work out until he went to bed because my sister wasn't home and I knew we would have an early morning. Plus I had a load of clothes in the washer. Anywho, I completed Day 10 around 11:20 PM and I didn't feel really accomplished. I wasn't that sweaty and I gave it my all. I did however push through and was very proud of myself. I wanted to scream, but I didn't want to scare Will. LoL.

Saturday was supposed to be the start of Day 11. Notice how I said SUPPOSED. Like I said it was an early morning for us. We went to Vegas for Sweeps. I did pretty well. We had a great dinner that night as well. We left Vegas around 7:45 PM and headed back. Will slept almost the whole way home while I drove. We got back a little before 11:30 PM and unloaded our stuff for the day. My sister had just gotten home as well. I was so exhausted I didn't have the energy to work out. Plus by the time I would have started, it would have been past midnight.

I had made an appointment to get my eyebrows done at 11:40 AM on Sunday. I got up and took Will to work so I could use the rental car's gas and not my own. Came home and went back to sleep. LoL. He opened so this is before 6 AM. I woke up at like 9:30 and told myself you MUST work out. So I ended up starting at around 10. Sunday was Day 1 of Level 2....this one definitely was something. I can't even remember the moves. All that I know is I should be able to do a push up after this level and that I love the Oblique Jumping Things, the twists were good for my back. This level seemed to go a lot faster than Level 1, even though it's the same duration of time =) My left leg is a little sore today, but I feel ok.

On a little side note, I did something to my left foot. I feel like I have a cramp that will not go away. Yesterday it didn't hurt as bad, but Saturday was the worse. Hopefully, today's better. Have a good one guys!

Friday, January 15, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 9

I am so ready to move levels. I really need to get some weights. Too bad I am not sure if I will be getting paid today. I might have to splurge a little. Not quite sure.

My workout was wonderful though. I was sweating soooo much. Sweat's your friend when working out right? I was slow with the jumping jacks set, but I pulled through. Tonight, since it's my last day on Level 1 I am going to push myself to complete it all.

LoL I almost put Day 9 Complete and was going to call it a day, but I needed to type a bit more for motivation. Have a good day/night =)

Thursday, January 14, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 8

For some reason I think I sweated just as much as Day 1, it felt like more. I thought that was crazy because it was just dripping down. I have yet to master the jumping jacks/jump rope set. I think it's funny because I was struggling with the jump ropes and now I can do those but not the frickin jumping jacks. Of all things...JUMPING JACKS?? Ha ha. I have 2 more days left with Level 1 and then I am advancing myself to Level 2. I think I am ready for that challenge.

Today I am extra sleepy and have no clue as to why. When I got to work I slept for 20 minutes in my car and feel slightly revived. I also stopped at Starbucks downstairs and got a Mocha Frap. It was the best one I have had from there, so I know I won't be going there anymore. I don't want to be disappointed =)

We're going to Vegas on Saturday for Sweeps. Leaving at 6 in the morning and coming back or should I say leaving Vegas around 6 that night. I am praying I can squeeze the work out in. It will be a late one but I have to do it. I also will have to work out early on Sunday morning so that I can be sure not to skip that. Good thing I found out we don't have to come into the office on Monday so I can also work out early as well. I am loving this. I don't think I have ever been so determined to work out! I owe this all to Candice for giving me that extra push and motivation =) Thanks Candice <3

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

30-day Shred: Day 7

Got off work yesterday and was eager to work out. No one was home when I got home [I like it that way because I can work out in the living room without interruptions]. I changed clothes and got to it.

I did the workout ALMOST error free. The set where it's 2 minutes of jumping jacks/jump ropes is where I had a problem. HOWEVER, I did complete ALL jump ropes. SO proud of myself =) I am doing 3 more days of Level 1, then graduating myself to Level 2 on Day 11 =) I think I am ready now but I can wait.

I aboslutely LOVE the way I am feeling. I really am starting to see a difference. I feel more energized today, but I think that has to do with me getting sleep =)

Until tomorrow! Have a good morning, day, or night <3

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 6

So I was bad and didn't work out on Sunday =( That was supposed to be my Day 6. You see the ultimate goal was to wake uo early, work out for the 20 minutes, and get ready for my day. LoL the sleep felt too good. Sorry if I repeated myself.

Yesterday at work was beyond hot. We were sent hom to work. I thought that was pretty perfect because I had plans but didn't want to leave early to work out. I worked at home until 7:30 and fired up the ps3 =) I was ready for Jillian. I must say the work out went smoothly. I am still struggling with the push-ups [but Candice tells me I will be able to do them and to trust her], I got a tad tired on the second set of jumping jacks in the cardio [the set with jump ropes], and did ALL the jump rope sets WITHOUT stopping!! I was so excited. I felt AMAZING after this workout. I also feel like it's starting to work =) My "skinny jeans" are getting loose =)

After my workout I headed to Del Rio to watch my boys in the Ebonite Invitational league. Matt Jones' girlfriend Lana asked me to practice with her. I didn't think I could bowl as much as she wanted so I just got 2 games. My legs were a bit wobbly. But I ended up adding the 2 more games =) I did pretty well too!

After work tonight I will be on Day 7; supposed to be 8 but I treated myself. . . Just remember I was dedicated enough to workout on my birthday.

BTW --I cut my hair! More like chopped. Everyone LOVES it, except me... Go figure! It'll grow on me I guess [pun intended!] =)

Monday, January 11, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 5

So working out on my birthday was wonderful. I felt great. My left calf was still hurting a little, but all in all it was a good work out. I think I am progressing rather well. I decided to not measure myself. I figure you can see a difference and know it worked from the before and after pictures I will be posting when this video is done.

I made a mistake of not getting up early to do Day 6 yesterday [the 10th], I just loved the sleep I was missing out on. Needless to say, I didn't work out yeserday =/ I was going to do this 30 days straight! I am so sad, but still determined. I just ran out of time yesterday with all that was going on. So I will do Day 6 tonight for sure!

Hopefully, I can get through the jump ropes!

Saturday, January 9, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 4

Happy Birthday to me! Yup today's my Birthday =) I am going to do Day 5 a little earlier than I have been. I think that's dedication! Seriously though, it's only 20 minutes . . . I can spare that much of the day.

On to Day 4's workout. . . I feel great! I think I sweated more in this workout thant in Day 3. No complaints here though =) I am not sore at all. Well my left calf has been hurting, now not so much. I don't think I will ever be able to do the push-ups but I am still trying. I did the first set of jumpropes and screamed YES! I didn't care who heard me because I did it without stopping. But the second set is what got me. I slowed down so I didn't stop.

That's about it. Got a little bit of running around to do today before tonight and a workout to do before the running around. . . HAve a great day followers/whoever reads this!

Friday, January 8, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 3

Let me just say I was in SOOOO much pain yesterday after Day 2. I was literally walking like an old woman [HA HA]. I was frustrated at work because we hadn't got paid and I had said that when I got the check I would walk to the bank and deposit it. We got our checks. I was in pain and needed to walk over there. Good thing I walked over there because I sure loosened up my leg muscles. I felt a whole lot better and was looking forward to workout when I got home.

I get home and start the workout. Man my legs were burning, but I kept telling myself "you gotta take the pain in order for it to go away Arisha." That was a fast workout too. The only problems I am facing are the push-ups [but I feel I have improved on them since the first day] and the first set of jump ropes [I do better toward the end].

I think I am going to do 10-10-10 in respects to the levels; I haven't fully decided yet.

I have also come to the realization that a shower after a workout is your friend. I mean I knew that, but I should have taken a shower after Day 2, but I was so tired I had no energy to do so. Last night I took a shower an hour after I worked out and I layed down to watch the Keeping Up with the Kardashians [recorded from Sunday] with Will. I think I got half way through it and was knocked out. I woke up around 2 or 3 to turn the TV off. Then this morning, my alarm went off but I didn't hear it or so I thought. LoL the phone was in my hand and Will was up saying "Babe, you gotta get up." That was at 6:15 AM [I have 2 alarms set for 5:45 & 6]. What was funny is he didn't have to be up until after I left so I asked him why he was up and he said "I slept in my contacts, I had to take them out." WoW! We both knocked out! But let me tell you that was some well-deserved sleep! I feel so alive and NOT SO SORE! Yay! My stomach muscles are loosening up and my left calf muscle is a little tender, other than that, I feel great.

I think I am in love with Jillian Michaels! Not like that but you know what I mean. Pretty disappointed that I didn't buy the DVD sooner!

Thursday, January 7, 2010

30-Day Shred: Day 2

First off let me say that I was wrong! The pain set in yesterday at about 2 PM. I think it's because I sit at work and my muscles were tensing up. I was pretty much staring at the time thinking please hurry so I can go home and do day 2. I even told my friend Candice, a big supporter/motivator of what I am doing, the pain was starting to kick in. She told me it was going to burn when I worked out today. I figured doing day 2 would take some of the pain away. . .

I figured wrong!! Should have listened to Candice! Ha ha. . . I did the work out around 8 PM and I was able to do more than I did on the 1st day. It seemed as if the jumping jacks and the jump ropes were a bit easier than the night before. I was still sweating like no other, which is good in my opinion. It also seemed as if the 20 minutes went by faster, since I knew what was coming next. So day 2 is over and I sit down after stretching and walking around a bit. I turn on this thing I caught on Bravo of The Biggest Loser and that took place in 2006. It was a battle between 2 families losing weight. So I am sitting there and Candice texts me "did you do it yet?" I told her I did and my legs were burning. I was watching the show for about 20 minutes and the phone rang. . . "OH NO" [I thought to myself] "I HAVE TO GET UP!" I was in so much pain! The good pain though. I know I am doing it right because muscles I thought I knew I had from the walking videos I was doing before this were coming out of my body and definitely letting me know they were there. I texted Candice back and told her what happen. Her response "It will all be worth it =)"

I sure hope so because I couldn't sleep on my side. Trust me I can never sleep on my back, but last night I did. This morning I did not want to get up. I literally staggered out of bed and into the shower. I should have taken my rinse off shower last night after the work out but I was talking to Will's sister, then I called Candice, and then talked to Will when he got home. I had no energy to get in the shower, I figured sleep was more important. The hot shower felt wonderful and I didn't want to get out. Then on my way to work I hear there's an accident. Sitting in traffic made me feel uncomfortable. When I got out the car to walk to the building I work in I felt like I wasn't going to make it! But I did =)

Since walking into work, I feel a smidge [a little one] better. But I feel like I was beat up! In fact I was by Jillian Michaels!! Ha ha. But hey what doesn't kill me, will only make me stronger! Hopefully after tonight the feeling starts to go away.

P.S. I don't know how people do this workout and not go straight through. . .How do you take days off? I don't want to discourage people because the workout's AWESOME. It's just everybody's body's different. Mine just needs to get adjusted ;-)