As I fill the empty space beside the “weight” portion of the questionnaire on www.wholesaleinsurance.net, I feel like surrendering to the fact that I will maintain this weight forever.  And I feel sad.  I’ve gone through two weeks of the South Beach Diet — twice and lost just 6-8 lbs in total .  I’ve worked my *ss off by attending aerobic classes and strength training sessions (okay this may be a tad bit exaggerated, but still!!!).  Despite these, the scale still tells me that I weigh one hundred ____  freakin’ pounds!  Tell me, what on earth do I have to do to lose weight?  Help!!!

I know that my son’s 7th birthday is still a couple of years from now, but I can’t help but “mentally” (not to mention financially)  prepare for a big birthday bash   One of the things I want to  prepare for are  the invitations.  Invitations set the mood of the entire party so I want these, as much as possible, to be perfect.  I don’t want to spend a fortune on print invitations though, so I’m planning to trek the digital route.  Good thing I have two years to prepare for this as I don’t want to end up with mediocre party invites

Our major project for the year – convert the spare room into a kiddie room.  We’ve been planning this since last year, and we think we’ve delayed long enough since Manu has long been ready to sleep in a room of his own.  We’ve made a list of things to make/buy to outfit a room for a growing boy.  Items need: space server bed and cabinets, laminate flooring and a fresh coat of paint.

I have been window shopping online at Saks.com for just a few minutes, and my shopping cart is already filled with shoes!  And these womens sandals are just a few of them

Alexander McQueen Metallic Leather Flats
$345.99 (from $495)

Gucci Inga Python T-strap Platform Sandals
$832.99 (from $1190)

Vena Cava Ankle-Tie Platform Sandals
$228.99 (from $328)

Alice + Olivia Juliet Polka Dot Canvas Platform Sandals
$170.99 (from $245)

Miu Miu Tri-Color Double-Buckle Mary Jane Sandals
$594.99 (from $850)

I know I have to edit my shopping list because I cannot afford all of them, obviously   In fact, I can only afford one!

Hmmm I didn’t know that motorhome repairs cost a lot.  Not that I own one or am planning of owning one.  A relative of mine is, and I am helping her decide on it.

According to Good Sam, Motorhomes break down or need major repairs after eight years (which is true even to a regular vehicle).  Meanwhile, typical costs of repairs range from $400 up to $3800!  It looks costly, basing on these figures, but we have yet to research further.  It is in fact a home, and a lot has to be considered.  I just hope we get all our figures (and facts) straight soon!

I’ve been taking Plana Forma for about two months now, and I’m thinking of taking a couple of months break from the barre, playground ball, and yoga mats.  The workout is putting a strain on my wrist and back, not to mention, my wallet   I will still workout though.  I’d probably just spend more time  doing aerobic activities like hi-lo, running, and boxing.  Hopefully, I can return to Forma by August.

As you head out to the beach this summer, don’t forget that skin care is very important. With the change in season your skin also went through a lot of changes. It’s time to say goodbye to heavy moisturizers and trade it in with sunscreen lotions. A lot of people are now aware of the damaging effects of prolonged sun exposure which is why protecting your skin this season should be a top priority.

Start by allowing your skin to breathe. One thing to avoid during summer season is wearing too much makeup. Using heavy liquid foundation can easily make your face looking all caked up. Apply as less makeup as possible during the day. Switch to a tinted moisturizer and a light blush to finish that fresh and effortless look.

Unless you want to get toasted while out in the sun, better stock up on sunscreen lotion since you’ll need it. Know more about SPF or Sun Protection Factor and go for a sunscreen that offers with SPF of at least 0 or 40. Remember that the higher the SPF, the more protection it will provide on your skin. It will be better to consult your dermatologist to find the right one especially if you have sensitive skin.

Don’t forget to stay hydrated the entire time especially when outdoors. Drinking water regularly will help in replenishing your body’s lost nutrients and moisture while at the same time it cleans your system.

Mia currently works as a freelance writer and uses her free time traveling and exploring places as she enjoys the adventure and adrenaline rush. Her current project with Amazing News has provided her with an opportunity to share her love for writing hoping that it could inspire other people to make a positive difference.

Deal Grocer has just released a super 3D/2N Discovery Shores deal for two, priced at only Php 24,500!  This comes with daily buffet breakfast, a Passport to Indulgence (a booklet containing partner restaurants with corresponding discounts) for all in-house guests, and roundtrip land and boat transfers from Caticlan to the resort.

This offer is just too good to pass up, that’s why I am keeping it in my shopping cart for the next few days (or hours depending how fast it gets purchased ).  While I dream of the powdery white sand, palatable buffet meals, free spa apparel gift baskets (i wish!), and superb customer service, I hope to grab sweet airfare deals.  There’s nothing from the airlines yet, but I’m crossing my fingers!

A lot of women feel disheartened about the post-partum belly that seems to remain even after the baby is out. Losing the tummy definitely takes quite some time. Remember that it took nine months for it to gradually expand to its size before you gave birth so do not expect it to magically disappear after giving birth. However, do not schedule an appointment for a liposuction yet. There are some things you can do to help your body go back to its pre-pregnancy form.

• Breastfeeding. Not only is it the best nourishment for your baby but it will also help you lose post-partum fat faster because your body has to burn more calories to make milk. Also, nursing will help your uterus contract and shrink.
• Light exercise. Once you have your doctor’s go signal, start with light exercises like walking and stretching. Once your body is up for it, you may try rigorous exercises that target the abdominal area.
• Tummy control. Use tummy wraps or tummy control underwear to help tuck in your tummy. Aside from this, you will also feel more confident knowing that your tummy is not bulging out.
• Low calorie diet. Go on a low calorie diet to help you burn the extra fat. However, you cannot do this if you are breastfeeding because losing weight too fast will release toxins into your breast milk.

Guest Post from Aggie Aviso

And I thought my request will not be approved.  Look at what I am getting next week! *woohoo*

No more cluttered workspace.

No more tiny displays.

No more low resolution screens.

No more noisy components.

No more discount desktops.

Just a spacious work station.

Just a big, beautiful display.

Just a high resolution screen with LED backlighting.

Just an all-in-one, simple desktop with cool and quiet components.

Just an iMac.