So I work at a medical college in Houston (not where the Congresswoman is being treated - can we say HIPAA violations, not to mention security hassles). I don't have any interaction with med students (thank goodness), but I do interact with research labs, MD/PhD students, and of course residents/fellows.
So when I saw this, I thought - wow, what a waste of research $ and supplies. But on the other hand, it's totally hilarious and what I hear on an almost daily basis.
Enjoy....
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Monday, January 24, 2011
It's all about the hair
FYI - I was not paid for this review...
Yes, I am doing my very first product review because I've gotta let ya'll know how much I really really really love this thing.
But you're gonna have a wait a minute (or speed read, or skip to the bottom) because there's a mini background info that I must get through first.
Women and hair go together like coffee and cream, cupcakes and coffee, convertibles and sunny days. Black women and hair go together almost like oil and water. We're never very happy with our hair texture, length, color, thickness, style or just generally being on our heads. Thanks to weaves, braids and wigs we can do just about anything to our hair these days.
When I was younger I used to glue in my own weave tracks. I never could get down wearing wigs (my head heats up with all that brain power going on) and I've been doing my own relaxers since I was 16. I couldn't tell you the true texture of my hair except thick! I've had it cut Salt-n-Pepa sideways to Halle Berry bob from Boomerang to currently just grazing my shoulders. As of late, I have been contemplating cutting it all off.
Why? Why lose my crown and glory? Because I'm tired of relaxing my hair. I workout a lot (6 days/week) and I sweat A LOT!!! This leads to sweating out the chemical process and just leads to unnecessary damage to my hair.
Here's the good part...
Well this past Christmas, I struggled with what to give my mom for a present. We differ when it comes to taste in clothes, shoes and handbags (plus, she has 3 closets full of stuff). So she mentioned she wanted an Instyler. Ta-Da. Problem solved. I headed over to the wonderful bedding/bath store with coupon in hand and snatched one up.
Of course I was skeptical that it would even work on Black hair. Black women spend billions of $$$$ on hair care products, most of which don't work. How many flat irons do you have in your drawers (I have 2, and 1's a chi). So when my mom finally pulled it out the package and announced she was happy with it (just don't use it when your hair wet), I was still skeptical. Especially since her hair is fine (thanks to all the over processing, years of dye jobs, flat ironing, hot combing, and weaves).
Well, I used it last weekend prior to jetting off to Sacramento. Loved the results (minus burning my ear). No burnt hair smell, no need to keep applying oil so the ends aren't damaged. I had great volume and body (not like the old Blonde lady in the infomerical, but I was happy with the results).
I am itching to order my own Instyler (just can't swing the $99 at the moment). The one downfall is the whirling noise it makes. It caught me off guard the first few times. I used it again this weekend while visiting her house and you get used to the noise.
So if you've been thinking of getting one - go for it. Make sure you use your BBB coupon for 20%. And if the folks from Instyler are reading this, I'd gladly accept a freebie! Otherwise, I'm trolling eBay for 1.
Yes, I am doing my very first product review because I've gotta let ya'll know how much I really really really love this thing.
But you're gonna have a wait a minute (or speed read, or skip to the bottom) because there's a mini background info that I must get through first.
Women and hair go together like coffee and cream, cupcakes and coffee, convertibles and sunny days. Black women and hair go together almost like oil and water. We're never very happy with our hair texture, length, color, thickness, style or just generally being on our heads. Thanks to weaves, braids and wigs we can do just about anything to our hair these days.
When I was younger I used to glue in my own weave tracks. I never could get down wearing wigs (my head heats up with all that brain power going on) and I've been doing my own relaxers since I was 16. I couldn't tell you the true texture of my hair except thick! I've had it cut Salt-n-Pepa sideways to Halle Berry bob from Boomerang to currently just grazing my shoulders. As of late, I have been contemplating cutting it all off.
Why? Why lose my crown and glory? Because I'm tired of relaxing my hair. I workout a lot (6 days/week) and I sweat A LOT!!! This leads to sweating out the chemical process and just leads to unnecessary damage to my hair.
Here's the good part...
Well this past Christmas, I struggled with what to give my mom for a present. We differ when it comes to taste in clothes, shoes and handbags (plus, she has 3 closets full of stuff). So she mentioned she wanted an Instyler. Ta-Da. Problem solved. I headed over to the wonderful bedding/bath store with coupon in hand and snatched one up.
Of course I was skeptical that it would even work on Black hair. Black women spend billions of $$$$ on hair care products, most of which don't work. How many flat irons do you have in your drawers (I have 2, and 1's a chi). So when my mom finally pulled it out the package and announced she was happy with it (just don't use it when your hair wet), I was still skeptical. Especially since her hair is fine (thanks to all the over processing, years of dye jobs, flat ironing, hot combing, and weaves).
Well, I used it last weekend prior to jetting off to Sacramento. Loved the results (minus burning my ear). No burnt hair smell, no need to keep applying oil so the ends aren't damaged. I had great volume and body (not like the old Blonde lady in the infomerical, but I was happy with the results).
I am itching to order my own Instyler (just can't swing the $99 at the moment). The one downfall is the whirling noise it makes. It caught me off guard the first few times. I used it again this weekend while visiting her house and you get used to the noise.
So if you've been thinking of getting one - go for it. Make sure you use your BBB coupon for 20%. And if the folks from Instyler are reading this, I'd gladly accept a freebie! Otherwise, I'm trolling eBay for 1.
What's your fav hair care product?
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
The Gold Rush
I'm back from my exploratory trip to Sacramento. When most of us think of California, we think of San Diego, Hollywood or San Francisco. Sometimes Palm Springs, Napa/Sonoma, or even Yosemite. Rarely does anyone say "Hey, I'm heading to Sacramento for the weekend!"
Well, I did. It was foggy, cloudy, rainy and cold. Reminds me of Tacoma/Puyallup minus the elephant ears and the fair. Honestly, the area that we will be living in is very suburban so I am preparing myself for the adjustment. I've come the conclusion that I can do city dwelling or country living. The 'burbs is like a rash and there may not be enough caladryl.
The Fella and I spent a lot of "us" time which was just awesome. We did some exploring, even heading to the Wells Fargo History Museum in old Sacramento which is really a corner office packed full of information about Wells Fargo and the gold rush. On my to-do/visit list is definitely The Crocker and the State History Museum. And, I am looking forward to taking the Amtrak to San Jose. Yes, I am a total nerd.
My countdown at work is continuing. 2.5 weeks left and my position isn't posted, my boss hasn't selected a potential candidate from the pile he has already interviewed, and the work continues to pile up. But the best part is that I am no longer feeling guilty. I am no where close to making headway packing, I need to find a moving company and buy bubble wrap. Not to mention sell off the furniture. Luckily, a few items have been claimed but are still residing at Casa Ingomar for another few weeks.
Yes, I am sad to leave Houston. But I am excited for the new path I plan to take. On my horizon, I see school and travel.Oh yes, I guess I better fit some work in there too.
Onward, Ho!
Well, I did. It was foggy, cloudy, rainy and cold. Reminds me of Tacoma/Puyallup minus the elephant ears and the fair. Honestly, the area that we will be living in is very suburban so I am preparing myself for the adjustment. I've come the conclusion that I can do city dwelling or country living. The 'burbs is like a rash and there may not be enough caladryl.
The Fella and I spent a lot of "us" time which was just awesome. We did some exploring, even heading to the Wells Fargo History Museum in old Sacramento which is really a corner office packed full of information about Wells Fargo and the gold rush. On my to-do/visit list is definitely The Crocker and the State History Museum. And, I am looking forward to taking the Amtrak to San Jose. Yes, I am a total nerd.
My countdown at work is continuing. 2.5 weeks left and my position isn't posted, my boss hasn't selected a potential candidate from the pile he has already interviewed, and the work continues to pile up. But the best part is that I am no longer feeling guilty. I am no where close to making headway packing, I need to find a moving company and buy bubble wrap. Not to mention sell off the furniture. Luckily, a few items have been claimed but are still residing at Casa Ingomar for another few weeks.
Yes, I am sad to leave Houston. But I am excited for the new path I plan to take. On my horizon, I see school and travel.Oh yes, I guess I better fit some work in there too.
Onward, Ho!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Resolutions Suck
I can not wait for those folks without the gumption of stick-to-it-ness to leave my gym. Each January, throngs of people with good intentions decide to join the gym and come for the first few weeks. I wouldn't complain if these newbies weren't so rude: 1. chatting loudly as the instructor is going over cues and proper technique prior to class starting, 2. taking too long from the previous class to exit so the next class can begin, 3. loitering in front of/blocking the water fountain, 4. leaving their personal crap on a machine they aren't planning to use.
I realize that we all had to start somewhere, but it sure seems that the newbies are just plain rude and in the way. I am looking forward to the day when they realize that their desired effects aren't happening overnight and they quit coming to the gym. At that point, all will be right with the world. At least at my gym it will be.
I realize that we all had to start somewhere, but it sure seems that the newbies are just plain rude and in the way. I am looking forward to the day when they realize that their desired effects aren't happening overnight and they quit coming to the gym. At that point, all will be right with the world. At least at my gym it will be.
Monday, January 10, 2011
It's a new Weight Watchers
At least that what all the hype seems to be about.
As many of us on the weight-loss train can attest, we've tried WW in the past. For some, it works(ed) and for some...eh?!?! Well, I tried the At-Home version in 2004-2005 and lost 10 lbs. But I took issues with the apparent promotions of their products (frozen meals, frozen treats, protein bars, etc). This new WW program seems to take that into account and now pushes REAL food (fruits and veggies are 0 points) and working out. Sheila is a lifer, group leader, and provided a great review of the new program.
So, one final thing I am thinking of taking advantage of from my job before I depart is the deeply discounted WW program. I may be a group exercise class junkie, but I'm not sure how I feel about group weigh-ins so I'm leaning towards the online program. The other pitfall for me is that I know how revved up I get about new weight-loss endeavors (especially about tracking my food) and fall off part way through. So, do I spend the $$$ to track my points thinking I fall off mid-way or even early into the game? Or do I just keep plugging along with my paper journal (so far 1 week down) and new eating plan of a protein shake for breakfast and dinner, 2 snacks and a sensible lunch (sounds like a commercial, huh?)? Or should I put my $$$ into the fitbook?
I'll decide tomorrow after the on campus info-meeting.
As many of us on the weight-loss train can attest, we've tried WW in the past. For some, it works(ed) and for some...eh?!?! Well, I tried the At-Home version in 2004-2005 and lost 10 lbs. But I took issues with the apparent promotions of their products (frozen meals, frozen treats, protein bars, etc). This new WW program seems to take that into account and now pushes REAL food (fruits and veggies are 0 points) and working out. Sheila is a lifer, group leader, and provided a great review of the new program.
So, one final thing I am thinking of taking advantage of from my job before I depart is the deeply discounted WW program. I may be a group exercise class junkie, but I'm not sure how I feel about group weigh-ins so I'm leaning towards the online program. The other pitfall for me is that I know how revved up I get about new weight-loss endeavors (especially about tracking my food) and fall off part way through. So, do I spend the $$$ to track my points thinking I fall off mid-way or even early into the game? Or do I just keep plugging along with my paper journal (so far 1 week down) and new eating plan of a protein shake for breakfast and dinner, 2 snacks and a sensible lunch (sounds like a commercial, huh?)? Or should I put my $$$ into the fitbook?
I'll decide tomorrow after the on campus info-meeting.
Do you WW? Are you good with tracking points or counting calories? What other tools do you use (Calorie Count.com anyone?) to track your intake and exertion?
Friday, January 7, 2011
The date is set
Movers will take my stuff Feb 21, 2011 and head West!
A friend of mine and I were to go see Chin, the physic Buddhist, but I chickened out. Then, she offered me a chance to have my numbers read over the holiday break. The brief information I was given (he wanted to study my numbers further) on my past and past lives was disturbing to say the least, but it wasn't anything I didn't know. Um...hello...it's my past - I was there. I wrestled with that information up through Monday. But I do know that I am not trapped my past nor am I doomed to repeat it.
Up until a few days ago I was still unsettled as to whether the decision to move to Sacramento to be with The Fella was the right decision. Hence the reason that I hadn't decided on an actual move date. Yes, he gave up being in close proximity to his children and family. I am giving up a secure job, a home, and my family and friends. I was feeling guilty of leaving my family with an additional home that needs to be renter. I was feeling guilty of leaving a boss who has been so wonderful to me. I had to figure out what I am gaining by making this decision...
I am gaining the kick in the pants that will force me out of my comfort zone and work towards my next goal of being a RD.
I am gaining a greater connection with The Fella, a fresh start to a blossoming relationship.
I am gaining new adventures.
I am gaining a new perspective on me and what I can be and what we can be together.
I am no longer feeling guilty.
I know that if I don't go, I'll always wonder - what if...I'm not that type of person. I'm going because I want to go and I need to go. I am at peace with this decision and I look forward to Feb. 21!
A friend of mine and I were to go see Chin, the physic Buddhist, but I chickened out. Then, she offered me a chance to have my numbers read over the holiday break. The brief information I was given (he wanted to study my numbers further) on my past and past lives was disturbing to say the least, but it wasn't anything I didn't know. Um...hello...it's my past - I was there. I wrestled with that information up through Monday. But I do know that I am not trapped my past nor am I doomed to repeat it.
Up until a few days ago I was still unsettled as to whether the decision to move to Sacramento to be with The Fella was the right decision. Hence the reason that I hadn't decided on an actual move date. Yes, he gave up being in close proximity to his children and family. I am giving up a secure job, a home, and my family and friends. I was feeling guilty of leaving my family with an additional home that needs to be renter. I was feeling guilty of leaving a boss who has been so wonderful to me. I had to figure out what I am gaining by making this decision...
I am gaining the kick in the pants that will force me out of my comfort zone and work towards my next goal of being a RD.
I am gaining a greater connection with The Fella, a fresh start to a blossoming relationship.
I am gaining new adventures.
I am gaining a new perspective on me and what I can be and what we can be together.
I am no longer feeling guilty.
I know that if I don't go, I'll always wonder - what if...I'm not that type of person. I'm going because I want to go and I need to go. I am at peace with this decision and I look forward to Feb. 21!
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