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	<title>Say What You Need to Say</title>
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		<title>FAT Tuesday Talk {Why I Don&#8217;t Count Calories}</title>
		<link>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/21/fat-tuesday-talk-why-i-dont-count-calories/</link>
		<comments>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/21/fat-tuesday-talk-why-i-dont-count-calories/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:26:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/?p=11241</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I never really understood the concept of Fat Tuesday or why the world seems to go ape wild over doughnuts on this particular day. &#160;After a quick Google search, I then realized that today signifies the last hurray before the solemnity of Lent.&#160;Fasnachts were made as a way to empty the pantry of lard, sugar, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I never really understood the concept of Fat Tuesday or why the world seems to go ape wild over doughnuts on this particular day. &nbsp;After a quick Google search, I then realized that today signifies the last hurray before the solemnity of Lent.&nbsp;Fasnachts were made as a way to empty the pantry of lard, sugar, fat, and butter, which were traditionally fasted from during Lent. Interesting concept really.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">&nbsp;I did not partake in any doughnuts today. &nbsp;Actually, I don&#39;t even remember the last time I had a doughnut, not because I don&#39;t like them but because I just never really would think to have one. &nbsp;If I was going to choose something to binge on before a long purge, it would probably be fro-yo&nbsp;but doughnuts, I can take or leave. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Either way, I do appreciate&nbsp;a good food tradition.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Speaking of traditional food eating, I was thinking today about my meal eating habits and realized that they are rather traditional. &nbsp;Breakfast is almost always cereal, oatmeal or yogurt, lunches are big salads loaded with protein and fats, and dinner is usually vegetable based. &nbsp;This conceptional eating pattern seems to work for me. &nbsp;I don&#39;t really follow any set plan or ever count calories. &nbsp;I listen to my body and try to give it exactly what it&#39;s asking for. &nbsp;I want to stress that this took me a very long time to achieve. &nbsp;I once obsessed far too much about portions, measurements, numbers, etc. and frankly, it was awful. &nbsp;I honestly don&#39;t think I could ever go back to counting and if I were being 100% honest, there have been a few times when I attempted just to see if I could. &nbsp;That lasted all about 2 hours. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size:22px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Breakfast&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/21/fat-tuesday-talk-why-i-dont-count-calories/img_1486/" rel="attachment wp-att-11242"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11242" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1486-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1486" width="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center; "><em>Peach Chobani, Berries, 1/2 Banana, Kashi Go Lean Crunch, Chia, Almond Butter&nbsp;</em></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Even though I don&#39;t measure things out, I still have a good idea of how much I am putting into my bowl each morning. &nbsp;There is about a 1/4 cup of cereal in here and this amount, paired with the yogurt, fruit and almond butter keeps me full and satisfied until lunch.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; ">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:20px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Lunch&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; ">&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/21/fat-tuesday-talk-why-i-dont-count-calories/img_1490/" rel="attachment wp-att-11245"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11245" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1490-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1490" width="600" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I&#39;ve had one lonely <a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2000/09/12/sweet-potato-black-bean-burgers/">Sweet Potato Black Bean Burger</a> in my freezer for ages that I&#39;ve been meaning to eat. &nbsp;I finally move it up to the front so that I would actually remember and today when I opened the freezer door, there it was! &nbsp;I suddenly got hungry for it. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/21/fat-tuesday-talk-why-i-dont-count-calories/img_1489/" rel="attachment wp-att-11244"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11244" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1489-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1489" width="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I made a salad of massaged kale with tahini and balsamic, roasted brussels sprouts, beets and avocado. &nbsp;The burger went on top with a small dollop of edamame hummus.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/21/fat-tuesday-talk-why-i-dont-count-calories/img_1488/" rel="attachment wp-att-11243"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11243" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1488-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1488" width="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">These burgers are so delicious. &nbsp;I will need to make more seeing as this was the last one. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; ">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:20px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Dinner&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/21/fat-tuesday-talk-why-i-dont-count-calories/img_1494/" rel="attachment wp-att-11247"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11247" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1494-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1494" width="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left; ">A<span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">nd here is where the big veggie consumption comes in. &nbsp; I can&#39;t seem to help myself when making stir fries but to add just about every single vegetable in my fridge. &nbsp;It just seems so natural.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/21/fat-tuesday-talk-why-i-dont-count-calories/img_1493/" rel="attachment wp-att-11246"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11246" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1493-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1493" width="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I realized that even when cooking, I never measure anything out. &nbsp;This dish consisted of chopped vegetables (carrots, zucchini, broccoli, peppers and mushrooms) with edamame and chicken potstickers. &nbsp;The sauce was a little soy, ginger and garlic all mixed together until I felt it was the right consistency. &nbsp;I could probably give you a good guess as to how much, but nothing is ever exact with my cooking. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">So the point of this entire post being that feeling freed from the constraint of measuring and counting has changed my life. &nbsp;I guess it&#39;s fitting being that toady is the national day of splurging to say that I no longer live my life in deprivation. &nbsp;If I want a doughnut, I&#39;ll eat a doughnut but most days, I just want to know that my body is getting what it needs. &nbsp;And maybe an extra spoonful of almond butter or two. &nbsp;<img alt="wink" height="20" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/plugins/ckeditor-for-wordpress/ckeditor/plugins/smiley/images/wink_smile.gif" title="wink" width="20" /></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; ">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><em><strong><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Hungry for dessert? &nbsp;Go check out my latest on NAG featuring my recipe of <a href="http://www.nutsaboutgranola.com/blog/2012/02/granola-baked-apples/">Granola Baked Apples!</a>!&nbsp;</span></span></strong></em></p>
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		<item>
		<title>The Last Holiday</title>
		<link>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/the-last-holiday/</link>
		<comments>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/the-last-holiday/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:49:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/?p=11226</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Happy President&#39;s Day!&#160; While I do enjoy a federal holiday (working for a financial institution does have its perks), I&#39;m always bummed by this holiday because it marks the beginning of a long drought without work holidays. &#160;I believe the next one isn&#39;t until Memorial Day which seems far too long from now. &#160; Regardless, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Happy President&#39;s Day!&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">While I do enjoy a federal holiday (working for a financial institution does have its perks), I&#39;m always bummed by this holiday because it marks the beginning of a long drought without work holidays. &nbsp;I believe the next one isn&#39;t until Memorial Day which seems far too long from now. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Regardless, it didn&#39;t stop me from enjoying every moment of this one. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Toly works for the government so he also is lucky enough to get these days off. &nbsp;Since we accomplished all of our work and chores yesterday, today was a complete &quot;play&quot; day for the both of us. &nbsp;We started it off with breakfast at one of our favorite spots, <a href="http://www.thehersheypantry.com">The Pantry</a>.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Unfortunately, when we arrived, we noticed a sign outside that indicated the restaurant was undergoing renovations this week and was closed but they had rented out a space across the street and was still serving from a select menu. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Not quite the same quaint and quirky atmosphere but still the same amazing food.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/the-last-holiday/sam_5906/" rel="attachment wp-att-11233"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11233" height="450" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SAM_5906-600x450.jpg" title="SAM_5906" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I was really feeling pancakes this morning but also wanted some protein so I did the logical thing and ordered both. &nbsp;Proteins and carbs &nbsp;is the way to go with any breakfast right?&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/the-last-holiday/sam_5905/" rel="attachment wp-att-11232"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11232" height="450" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SAM_5905-600x450.jpg" title="SAM_5905" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">These pancakes are HUGE! &nbsp;It came with 2 but I gave one to Toly and happily ate one for myself.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/the-last-holiday/sam_5907/" rel="attachment wp-att-11234"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11234" height="450" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SAM_5907-600x450.jpg" title="SAM_5907" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">One delicious blueberry pancake for taste, three scrambled egg whites for health. &nbsp;A wonderful balance!&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">After breakfast, Toly and I did some outlet shopping (his idea, shocking!) and then ran a few more errands before coming home. &nbsp;We were actually out all morning and didn&#39;t get home until later in the afternoon. &nbsp;Since we both weren&#39;t terribly hungry for a big lunch and dinner wasn&#39;t too far off, I made us a light lunch of smoothies.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/the-last-holiday/img_1465/" rel="attachment wp-att-11228"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11228" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1465-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1465" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">My smoothie contained 1/2 a banana, spinach, almond milk, almond butter and ice. &nbsp;It was quite delicious as were the side of roasted Brussels sprouts I had with it.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/the-last-holiday/img_1463/" rel="attachment wp-att-11227"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11227" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1463-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1463" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Topped with hummus and hot sauce&#8230;.incredible!&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I did a bit of work to finish up the afternoon and called it quits once hunger rolled around again in time for dinner.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">On the menu tonight was fish tacos! &nbsp;Definitely a favorite in our house but I usually save this meal for the summer. &nbsp;I always think they taste better with grille fish but these were equally as good cooked in a skillet.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/the-last-holiday/img_1478/" rel="attachment wp-att-11229"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11229" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1478-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1478" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I sauteed Tilapia with a spicy seasoning mix of salt, pepper, chili power, cumin, red pepper, and oregano. &nbsp;Once the fish was cooked, piled it on a whole wheat tortilla with black beans, corn salsa, tomatoes, plain yogurt and homemade guac.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/the-last-holiday/img_1481/" rel="attachment wp-att-11230"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11230" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1481-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1481" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">On the side was roasted broccoli (slightly burnt) and some greens. &nbsp;I loved everything about this meal. &nbsp;Why don&#39;t I make these more often?&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Well this concludes the end of a very enjoyable weekend. &nbsp;Hoping you all had the same!&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Something to do: &nbsp;I&#39;m selling a few of my designer handbags. &nbsp;You can check them out <a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/">here</a>. &nbsp;They&#39;re going fast so be sure to email me if you are interested in purchasing any of them.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Handbags Hand-Me-Down Sale</title>
		<link>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/</link>
		<comments>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:59:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/?p=11206</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Over the years, I&#39;ve seemed to accumulate quite the purse collection and now I find that I have a closet full of well maintained, slightly used handbags that I&#39;ve been meaning to sell.&#160; Before I put them on Ebay, I wanted to see if any of you (my wonderful readers) would be interested. &#160;Below is [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Over the years, I&#39;ve seemed to accumulate quite the purse collection and now I find that I have a closet full of well maintained, slightly used handbags that I&#39;ve been meaning to sell.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Before I put them on Ebay, I wanted to see if any of you (my wonderful readers) would be interested. &nbsp;Below is a collection of what I am selling but if you have any specific questions on them, please don&#39;t hesitate to email me. &nbsp;If you see something that you would like, please send me an email &nbsp;to <strong>lpodolsky410@gmail.com </strong>with the subject <em>&quot;Handbags Hand-Me-Down Sale&quot;</em> indicating that you would like to purchase. &nbsp;I&#39;ll accept paypal payments and will ship immediately upon receiving payment. &nbsp;Also, if you are not a US resident but still interested, please let me know and I will look into the shipping costs to see if it&#39;s fesable to ship. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I wil leave the auction open until <u><strong>Monday, March 5th</strong></u> (2 weeks) and these will go on a first come first serve basis. I will also update the page as they are sold. &nbsp;Again, if you have any questions, please let me know.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Hope you enjoy!&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size:20px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">1. Coach Signautre Satchel (Beige with dark brown accent)&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/img_1468/" rel="attachment wp-att-11209"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11209" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1468-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1468" width="600" /></a></p>
<p><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Details: 12 x 8, slightly used, in excellent condiiton. &nbsp;Light purple interior, one zipper pocket, two small comparmental pockets &nbsp;Retailed at $298. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/img_1469/" rel="attachment wp-att-11210"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11210" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1469-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1469" width="600" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><font class="Apple-style-span" face="georgia, serif">Optional: Matching wallet and cell phone holder&nbsp;</font></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/img_1470/" rel="attachment wp-att-11211"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11211" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1470-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1470" width="600" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><strong><span style="font-size:16px;">Asking Price: &nbsp;</span></strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><strong><span style="font-size:16px;"><strike>Purse only &#8211; $75</strike> &nbsp; <span style="color:#ff0000;">SOLD&nbsp;</span></span></strong></span></li>
<li><strike><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><strong><span style="font-size:16px;">(Seperate) Wallet and&nbsp;cell phone holder &#8211; $25</span></strong></span></strike><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><strong><span style="font-size:16px;"> &nbsp;<span style="color:#ff0000;">SOLD</span></span></strong></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size:20px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">&nbsp; &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:20px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">2. Guess Signature Mesh Black Top Handle &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/img_1466/" rel="attachment wp-att-11207"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11207" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1466-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1466" width="600" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left; ">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/img_1467/" rel="attachment wp-att-11208"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11208" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1467-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1467" width="600" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left; ">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:20px;"><span style="font-size: 12px; "><font class="Apple-style-span" face="georgia, serif">Details- 9 x 9. &nbsp;Mesh material with signature logo, black leather handles, bottom, top accent. &nbsp;Detachable leather small insert bag. &nbsp;Condition &#8211; good, very light ware with minimual freaying in some of the stitching. Reatiled at $64.99.&nbsp;</font></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><strong><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><font class="Apple-style-span">Asking Price &#8211; $25&nbsp;</font></span></span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left; ">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:20px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><font class="Apple-style-span">3. Guess Black Small Hobo&nbsp;</font></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; ">&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/img_1474/" rel="attachment wp-att-11215"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11215" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1474-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1474" width="600" /></a></p>
<p>Details: 12 x 5. Top zipper closer, leather buckel, logo on front. &nbsp;Black&nbsp;polyurethane material. &nbsp;Moderate use but still good condition. &nbsp;Gold interior (please note there is a small stain on the interior) one zipper pocket. Reatiled at $48.99.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/img_1477/" rel="attachment wp-att-11218"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11218" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1477-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1477" width="600" /></a></p>
<p>Optional: Matching wallet&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/img_1475/" rel="attachment wp-att-11216"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11216" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1475-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1475" width="600" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/img_1476/" rel="attachment wp-att-11217"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11217" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1476-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1476" width="600" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size:16px;"><strong><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Asking price:</span></strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size:16px;"><strong><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Purse only &#8211; $20</span></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:16px;"><strong><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Purse and wallet &#8211; $30&nbsp;</span></strong></span></li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size:20px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">4. Replica Coach Inspired Black Hobo&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/20/handbags-hand-me-down-sale/img_1472/" rel="attachment wp-att-11213"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11213" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1472-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1472" width="600" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Details: 11 x 5.5. &nbsp;Black with leather handle and leather buckel. &nbsp;Interior all black, one zipper pocket, two small conpartmental pockets. &nbsp;Excellent condition, slightly used. Reatiled at ??? (I honestly do not know)&nbsp;</p>
<p><strike><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><strong><span style="font-size:16px;">Asking Price: $15&nbsp;</span></strong></span></strike><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><strong><span style="font-size:16px;"> <span style="color:#ff0000;">SOLD</span></span></strong></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-size:12px;">Again, if you have any questions or would like to see more pictures, please email me. &nbsp;</span></span></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Me Myself and I Weekend</title>
		<link>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/</link>
		<comments>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Feb 2012 01:38:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/?p=11187</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I needed this kind of weekend. &#160;I needed a weekend to unwind, relax, and be disconnected from most of the world. &#160;After two glorious days of this, I now feel recharged and ready for anything. &#160;Amazing what a little R&#38;R and some quality time with yourself can do for your spirit. &#160; Saturday&#160; I contemplated [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I needed this kind of weekend. &nbsp;I needed a weekend to unwind, relax, and be disconnected from most of the world. &nbsp;After two glorious days of this, I now feel recharged and ready for anything. &nbsp;Amazing what a little R&amp;R and some quality time with yourself can do for your spirit. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<h2><span style="font-size:20px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><span style="color:#33cc66;">Saturday&nbsp;</span></span></span></h2>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I contemplated waking up early and going to the gym but I was really into the idea of just spending the entire day with myself. &nbsp;I&#39;m usually a social butterfly so it was completely out of character for me but like I said, exactly what I needed. &nbsp;I woke up a little later and went downstairs to my homegym for a nice workout while catching up on Gossip Girl. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">And then the pampering began. &nbsp;Starting with breakfast of course. &nbsp;I figured it this day was going to be about me, I might as well start it with a fantastic pancake breakfast.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/img_1435/" rel="attachment wp-att-11189"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11189" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1435-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1435" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">These Pumpkin Protein Pancakes came out to perfection topped with half of a banna, sunflower nut butter, and a touch of <a href="http://www.nutsaboutgranola.com/products-page/products/e-town-carrot-cake-granola/">NAG Carrot Cake Granola</a>. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/img_1438/" rel="attachment wp-att-11190"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11190" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1438-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1438" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">With the day off to a great start, it only got better. &nbsp;I was able to use some of my Christmas gifts and booked a nail appointment and a massage. &nbsp;Quite the spa day!&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">After my massage, I was going to head to the mall but hunger strike so I came home instead and put together something to refuel.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/img_1392/" rel="attachment wp-att-11188"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11188" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1392-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1392" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">You&#39;ve seen this before but I can&#39;t get enough of this salad lately. Spinach and radichio, roasted butternut squash and broccoli, cucumber, black beans, grilled chicken, ff feta cheese, balsamic and hunnus.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Retail therapy came next. &nbsp;I am blown away by the spring collections this year. &nbsp;For one, it makes me entirely anxious for warm weather and I seem to want every single flirty bright colored dress that I can find. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I did come home with this little number for our date night later on.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/img_1439/" rel="attachment wp-att-11191"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11191" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1439-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1439" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">LOVE the dresses at Express right now. &nbsp;I did some damage but in my defense, scored some major deals.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/img_1441/" rel="attachment wp-att-11193"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11193" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1441-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1441" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Buy one get one half off left me with two dresses and four tops all under $100. &nbsp;Not bad.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Okay, back to the date night. &nbsp;Toly and I decided to save our Valentines Day date for the weekend since neither of us really love the idea of going out on the actual day. &nbsp;We&#39;ve had bad experiences in the past so we&#39;d much rather stay at home and celebrate with a nice dinner out a few days later.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">He made reservations at one of our favorite celebratory restaurants, The Melting Pot. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">It all started with our 5 year dating anniversary when we had our first fondue experience. &nbsp;We had such an incredible time that we now go back for almost every &quot;romantic&quot; occasison.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/sam_5900/" rel="attachment wp-att-11197"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11197" height="450" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SAM_5900-600x450.jpg" title="SAM_5900" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Let&#39;s be honest, the meal was good&#8230;it always is. &nbsp;But the real reason I keep coming back&#8230;..</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/sam_5903/" rel="attachment wp-att-11198"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11198" height="450" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SAM_5903-600x450.jpg" title="SAM_5903" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Dark chocolate and bailies dipped strawberries&#8230;.come to ma&#39;ma!&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">As usual, we rolled ourselves out of there and fell into a food coma. &nbsp;Pure bliss.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<h2><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><span style="color:#33cc99;">Sunday</span></span></strong></span></h2>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Surprsingly, I woke up still full from dinner. &nbsp;This doesn&#39;t happen often as I&#39;m usually hungry for breakfast every single day. &nbsp;I let myself work up an appetite before starting breakfast.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/img_1444/" rel="attachment wp-att-11194"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11194" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1444-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1444" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><em>Scrambled eggs, whole wheat english muffin (pumpkin butter and sunflower butter), 1/2 an orange</em></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I wasn&#39;t starving but this all tasted so good and I knew I needed the protein for the body pump class I would be heading up afterwards. &nbsp;So glad I listened because I ended up at the gym for almost two hours and this combination of carbohydrates, fats and proteins was perfect for the workout. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I then did our weekly grocery haul which lead right into the afternoon. &nbsp;After it was all put away, I finally put together lunch.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/img_1448-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11195"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11195" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1448-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1448" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">(I realize now that this photo is a bit overexposed&#8230;but I was too hungry to mess with it at the time). &nbsp;Anyways, this salad was spinach and radichio, cucumber, tomatoes, roasted broccoli, eddamame, radish, avocado, Amy&#39;s California Bistro Burger (closest to Sunshine burgers and much cheaper) hummus and balsamic.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I also did a little &quot;no-baking&quot; if you will. &nbsp;This was intended to be my <a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2011/10/02/not-according-to-plan/">no-bake apricot almond granola bars</a> but as you can see, it didn&#39;t exactly turn out that way. &nbsp;But the granola form is just as good.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/img_1449/" rel="attachment wp-att-11199"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11199" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1449-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1449" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I&#39;ll post the recipe shortly.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I left the rest of the day for cleaning the house and doing laundry. &nbsp;Chores always seem to get done on Sunday&#39;s and I knew I wanted to get them all done today so that I can leave my day off tomorrow for nothing but fun.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Dinner was based off a random craving for crab cakes.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left; "><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/img_1457/" rel="attachment wp-att-11200"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11200" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1457-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1457" width="600" /></a></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">My crab cake recipe is pretty simple&#8230;.1 lb lump crab, 1 T dijon, 1 egg white, 1/4 C bread crumbs, parsely, lemon juice, salt and pepper. I also added some diced red pepper to liven things up.&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/19/11187/img_1462/" rel="attachment wp-att-11201"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11201" height="400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1462-600x400.jpg" title="IMG_1462" width="600" /></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">I had two small cakes served over kale with tahini and roasted asparagus. &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Now I&#39;m basking in the thought that tomorrow I have another day off with nothing to do. &nbsp;Wow this really was the best weekend and it just keeps getting bettter.&nbsp;<img alt="smiley" height="20" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/plugins/ckeditor-for-wordpress/ckeditor/plugins/smiley/images/regular_smile.gif" title="smiley" width="20" /></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:georgia,serif;">Wishing you all had the same! &nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p><em><strong>What is your favorite &quot;me-time&quot; activity?&nbsp;</strong></em></p>
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		<item>
		<title>My Week In Pins</title>
		<link>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/</link>
		<comments>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 18 Feb 2012 01:15:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/?p=11169</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Happy Friday everyone!  In case you weren&#8217;t able to pick up on it from my the depth of my posts, it was a rough week.  I&#8217;m almost always a very positive person. I always see the glass half full, I look on the bright side, and I inspire others to find the good in the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Happy Friday everyone!  In case you weren&#8217;t able to pick up on it from my the depth of my posts, it was a rough week.  I&#8217;m almost always a very positive person. I always see the glass half full, I look on the bright side, and I inspire others to find the good in the world.  But I&#8217;m still human and unfortunately, that makes me fully incapable of never feeling hurt.</p>
<p>But this week is over and therefore, I am over it.  I&#8217;m ready for tomorrow and a fresh start.  Sometimes, when life gets overwhelming, I literally have to step back and take a deep breath.  I&#8217;ve taken a few deep breaths this week and now I&#8217;m exhaling.  It&#8217;s time to move on….</p>
<p>I thought I would  try and lighten the mood by sharing my pin selections this week.  I&#8217;ve selected my top picks from each of my boards and I hope you find them just as enjoyable.</p>
<h2>My Style</h2>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/65935582014366184_rbrqwoz0_f/" rel="attachment wp-att-11182"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11182" title="65935582014366184_RBRqwoz0_f" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/65935582014366184_RBRqwoz0_f.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="585" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tittysandpancakes.com/post/12526019369">source</a></p>
<p>I used to hate gold but this year, I am all about it.  I want this sweater, I want this purse, I want her hair!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/j-sidebar-mediterranean-salmon-salad-7/" rel="attachment wp-att-11181"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11181" title="j-sidebar-mediterranean-salmon-salad" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/j-sidebar-mediterranean-salmon-salad1.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/123989795960922014/">source</a></p>
<p>Every woman needs a pair of black stilettos.  They will automatically make you more powerful.  That&#8217;s a fact.</p>
<h2>For The Home</h2>
<h2><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/177962622744979406_j5nzt8mc_f/" rel="attachment wp-att-11180"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11180" title="177962622744979406_j5NZT8Mc_f" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/177962622744979406_j5NZT8Mc_f.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="460" /></a></h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thedailygreen.com/green-homes/latest/oatmeal-uses-skin-460809">source</a></p>
<p>What do you do with your leftover oatmeal canisters?  I know what I&#8217;ll be doing from now on!  Toilet paper holders…this is genius!</p>
<h2>Work It Out</h2>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/69031806758180842_zazewjsx_f/" rel="attachment wp-att-11177"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11177" title="69031806758180842_zAZeWjSx_f" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/69031806758180842_zAZeWjSx_f.jpg" alt="" width="366" height="482" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/123989795960922031/">source</a></p>
<p>My runs are shorter these days so I&#8217;m usually looking for ones that give me a good bang for my buck.</p>
<h2>Recipe Box</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/148196643958013744_gwuagyqz_f/" rel="attachment wp-att-11178"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11178" title="148196643958013744_GWuAgYQZ_f" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/148196643958013744_GWuAgYQZ_f.jpg" alt="" width="564" height="376" /></a> <a href="http://kblog.lunchboxbunch.com/2012/02/easy-sweet-potato-veggie-burgers-with.html">source</a></p>
<p>Sweet potato veggie burgers with tahini.  I just bought some tahini and need a reason to use it.  I think I found it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/174796029257183981_i8yejk99_f/" rel="attachment wp-att-11179"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11179" title="174796029257183981_i8YEJk99_f" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/174796029257183981_i8YEJk99_f.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://chocolateandcarrots.com/2012/02/whole-grain-cookie-dough-bars">source </a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Whole Grain Cookie Dough Bars.  These remind me of the Kongo bars my mom would make every summer but these are healthy…whole grain cancels out any amount of butter and sugar these might have right?</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Quote</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/202802789439938676_mzi3vhnr_f/" rel="attachment wp-att-11183"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11183" title="202802789439938676_mZI3VHNR_f" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/202802789439938676_mZI3VHNR_f-421x600.jpg" alt="" width="421" height="600" /></a><a href="http://turquoisetulipsandbliss.tumblr.com/">source</a></p>
<p>Yes, yes it is!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>I was thrilled it was Friday even before I really got started with my day today.  Just knowing there was a 3 day weekend following made things a bit easier.</p>
<h2>Breakfast</h2>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/img_1419/" rel="attachment wp-att-11170"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11170" title="IMG_1419" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1419-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li>1/4 C Kashi Go Lean</li>
<li>1/4 C Flax Flakes</li>
<li>1/2 Banana</li>
<li>Raspberries</li>
<li>Flax</li>
<li>Sunflower Seed Butter</li>
<li>2 T Kashi Go Lean Crunch</li>
<li>Almond Milk</li>
</ul>
<div>I never usually show you all of the components of breakfast, mainly because it doesn&#8217;t really photograph well, but I had someone ask me so here is the whole deal….</div>
<div><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/img_1420/" rel="attachment wp-att-11171"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11171" title="IMG_1420" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1420-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></div>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Cereal, 1/2 a grapefruit, coffee, and AVC and lemon water</em></p>
<div>These things go along with my oatmeal or cereal almost every day.  Just in case you were wondering….</div>
<h2>Lunch</h2>
<p>Things got all out of whack this afternoon at work and my original schedule was turned around.  I suddenly had an hour free for lunch before heading out to an appointment and I was originally going to grab something at home but I ended up needing a friend to talk to.  Good luck one of my best friend&#8217;s sits beside me every day and came to my rescue.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/sam_5897/" rel="attachment wp-att-11176"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11176" title="SAM_5897" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SAM_5897-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>And she came with sushi. Exactly what I needed!</p>
<p>I ordered the Ichiban Roll which had spicy salmon, cucumber and mango.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/sam_5895/" rel="attachment wp-att-11174"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11174" title="SAM_5895" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SAM_5895-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>Audi&#8217;s roll was almost too pretty to eat.  The Pretty in Pink which had shrimp tempura, avocado and lettuce.</p>
<div><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/sam_5896/" rel="attachment wp-att-11175"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11175" title="SAM_5896" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SAM_5896-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a></div>
<p>Both rolls were outstanding!  For not really being that hungry, I did a fine job at almost finishing my plate.  There is always lots of room in my stomach for sushi.</p>
<h2>Dinner</h2>
<p>A few days ago, Toly mentioned how he couldn&#8217;t wait until it got warmer out so that we could grill and make cobb salads.  I thought…why wait?  Since this winter has been unseasonably warm there was no reason why the grill shouldn&#8217;t be utilized, especially tonight.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/img_1426-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11173"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11173" title="IMG_1426" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1426-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a><em>Romaine, Cucumber, Radish, Corn, Black Beans, Egg Whites, FF Feta, Avocado, Grilled Chicken, Turkey Bacon </em></p>
<div>He finished up grilling just moments before it got dark and our cobb salads were authentically created with the tough of fresh grilled chicken.</div>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/17/my-week-in-pins/img_1424/" rel="attachment wp-att-11172"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11172" title="IMG_1424" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1424-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p>We almost considered eating outside but figured that would be pushing it.  Spring is near but we&#8217;ll take what we can get right now.</p>
<p>Well I&#8217;m officially saying &#8220;the end&#8221; on this week.  Tomorrow I have a massage booked and am planning to fully melt away my stress. We also have  our Valentines Day Date night tomorrow night where I plan on drowning my sorrows in a bowl of chocolate fondue.  Sounds like the perfect remedy if you ask me.</p>
<p>Wishing you all the best weekend!</p>
<p><em><strong>What was the best thing thing for you about this week? </strong></em></p>
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		<title>Words From an Idealist</title>
		<link>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/16/words-from-an-idealist/</link>
		<comments>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/16/words-from-an-idealist/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:00:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/?p=11162</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I realize the majority of my posts this week have been heavy and forgive me for throwing another one out there but when I have these things to say, I feel as though it&#8217;s worth sharing.  After all, this blog is called, &#8220;Say What You Need to Say&#8221; so I&#8217;m going to eat my own [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>I realize the majority of my posts this week have been heavy and forgive me for throwing another one out there but when I have these things to say, I feel as though it&#8217;s worth sharing.  After all, this blog is called, &#8220;Say What You Need to Say&#8221; so I&#8217;m going to eat my own words.</p>
<p>In my bi-weekly department meeting, our team all participated in the <a href="http://www.keirsey.com/personalityzone/wz21.asp">Keirsey Personality Zone Test</a> which examines 5 different personality types and evaluates your personal traits and work ethic.  I&#8217;ve heard of these tests before but this was my first time taking part in one and I was quite surprised at how accurate it really was.</p>
<p>According to the test, I am an idealist.  I really could have told you this. The idealist are most attuned to values and seeking great good in other people and in the world. All Idealists seek to have a life of meaning, to help themselves and others grow to be the best that they can be. They do not want to be a copycat of someone else, but want to be seen as a unique and valuable individual.</p>
<p>It&#8217;s ironic that this came up because this topic is one that I have with my husband often.  We constantly discuss our differences in that I am a dreamer and he is a realist.  He needs facts, evidence, real answers and logic.  I live off of the unknown, the &#8220;what if&#8221; and the faith.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/16/words-from-an-idealist/j-sidebar-mediterranean-salmon-salad-6/" rel="attachment wp-att-11165"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11165" title="j-sidebar-mediterranean-salmon-salad" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/j-sidebar-mediterranean-salmon-salad-600x600.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="480" /></a>Yes, we are different in many ways but I believe that is why we work together.  If someone were to ask me how I know that I am in love, my answer is always simple…it&#8217;s not complicated with him.  Life just makes sense because we are together.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">My point is not to relay a love story with this but rather to emphasize that the difference in people is often times what brings them together.  I&#8217;ve often been quick to judge others for who they are but fail to step back and take a look at who I really.  The entire test was enlightening and I believe the best way to understand others is to first understand yourself.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Breakfast</h2>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/16/words-from-an-idealist/img_1213-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11164"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11164" title="IMG_1213" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1213-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Today was a teaching day at the gym so I made my breakfast last night so that I could grab them on my way to work.  Pumpkin Overnight Oats with blackberries, sunflower butter, and crumbled pumpkin protein bar made for a great portable meal.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">After our team meeting, we followed it with our monthly department luncheon which happened to be BFL (breakfast for lunch), my idea!  Are you surprised?  I prepped a few casseroles for the event (french toast and vegetable egg) but failed to take any photos.  My bad.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Dinner</h2>
<p style="text-align: left;">Dinner came together in a snap.  I bought Trader Joe&#8217;s Turkey Bolognese Sauce last weekend on a whim. They were sampling it and I thought it was actually pretty decent so I picked one up.  Strategic food marketing at its finest.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/16/words-from-an-idealist/img_1414-3/" rel="attachment wp-att-11163"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11163" title="IMG_1414" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1414-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I added some mushrooms to the sauce and served it over spaghetti squash, spinach and roasted broccoli.  Delicious!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I would buy this again although I do love <a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2011/12/25/its-christmas/">my vegetable bolognese sauce</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">So glad tomorrow is Friday and a three day weekend at that.  Have a wonderful night!!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Out of the 4 Personality Types, what would you place yourself as? &#8211; <a href="http://www.keirsey.com/personalityzone/wz19.asp">Guardian</a>, <a href="http://www.keirsey.com/personalityzone/wz21.asp">Idealist</a>,  <a href="http://www.keirsey.com/personalityzone/wz20.asp">Artisan,</a> <a href="http://www.keirsey.com/personalityzone/wz22.asp">Realist </a>?</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">
<p style="text-align: left;"><em><strong>Something to do</strong></em>: Check out <a href="http://www.nutsaboutgranola.com/blog/2012/02/nuts-about-granolakeystone-velo-team-gearing-up-for-race-season/">my latest post </a>on NAG.</p>
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		<title>Chasing Pavements</title>
		<link>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/15/chasing-pavements/</link>
		<comments>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/15/chasing-pavements/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:59:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/?p=11156</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Tonight, I&#8217;m sitting in front of my computer trying to think of the words to write.  Nothing is coming to me.  Adele&#8217;s &#8220;Chasing Pavements&#8221; comes on my Pandora and I begin to stop and really listen to the words…. &#8220;Should I give up or should I just keep chasing pavements, even if it leads nowhere.&#8221; [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Tonight, I&#8217;m sitting in front of my computer trying to think of the words to write.  Nothing is coming to me.  Adele&#8217;s &#8220;Chasing Pavements&#8221; comes on my Pandora and I begin to stop and really listen to the words….</p>
<p>&#8220;Should I give up or should I just keep chasing pavements, even if it leads nowhere.&#8221;</p>
<p>I always find it incredibly ironic when a song comes on that completely illustrates my feelings at that moment.  It happens to me a lot actually.</p>
<p>Anyways, back to the song.  I seem to have a lot on my mind this week and a lot of decisions to make.  I have been talking to a few friends about how there often seems to come times in our lives when things just don&#8217;t make sense.  We don&#8217;t have the answers and all we really want is some clarity and peace of mind.  I realized today that I&#8217;ve been counseling my friends on this, telling them that we only usually find our answers when we stop asking why and just let things happen, when I am at the exact same position.  I would absolutely love to know what my tomorrow holds but tomorrow may not come.  Living in the here and now is all we can really do.  And I honestly believe that if we all stopped and looked at our current state of who we are and where we are in life and actually appreciated it, we would all be better off.</p>
<p>I&#8217;m going to try and practice what I preach.  I&#8217;m going to take a deep breath and just let life happen.  I&#8217;m going to thank God for what I do have and wait to see what He has in store for me.  I&#8217;m going to stop searching for answers that I can&#8217;t determine.  I&#8217;m going to live right here and now and take each moment as it comes, &#8220;even if it leads nowhere.&#8221;</p>
<h2>Breakfast</h2>
<h2><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/15/chasing-pavements/img_1402/" rel="attachment wp-att-11157"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11157" title="IMG_1402" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1402-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></h2>
<ul>
<li>1/4 C Kashi Go Lean</li>
<li>1/4 C Flax Flakes</li>
<li>1/2 Banana</li>
<li>Blueberries</li>
<li>1/2 scoop vanilla protein powder</li>
<li>Almond Milk</li>
<li>Sunflower Seed Butter</li>
<li>Almonds</li>
</ul>
<p>I know you&#8217;ve been seeing this combo for a few weeks but I really do love it.  And if I haven&#8217;t said it before (which I&#8217;m pretty sure I have) protein powder in cereal is a brilliant idea.</p>
<h2>Lunch</h2>
<p>I had a presentation at a school this afternoon which happened to be located close to a Chipotle.  Can you guess what I had for lunch?</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/15/chasing-pavements/sam_5894/" rel="attachment wp-att-11159"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11159" title="SAM_5894" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/SAM_5894-600x450.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /></a><em>Salad with brown rice, veggies, chicken, tomato salsa, and guac </em></p>
<p>This was my first time eating chicken here and I must say, it was delicious!!  A welcome addition to my usual salad bowl.</p>
<h2>Dinner</h2>
<p>I had a ton of things to get done after work and not much time to think about preparing dinner.  Since I already had the eggs out for a few recipes I was working on for a work party tomorrow, eggs was the sensible decision for dinner.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/15/chasing-pavements/img_1407-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11158"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11158" title="IMG_1407" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1407-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p>Back to my egg salad kick.  This one was a mix of romaine and spinach, radish, edamame, one slice of turkey bacon, goat cheese, and scrambled egg whites and a bit of edamame hummus.</p>
<p>Well more work is calling.</p>
<p>Goodnight!</p>
<p><em><strong>What is one thing you are grateful for in your life right now?</strong></em></p>
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		<title>Lucky I&#8217;m In Love</title>
		<link>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/14/lucky-im-in-love/</link>
		<comments>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/14/lucky-im-in-love/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2012 01:01:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/?p=11147</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Happy Valentines Day to you all! I realize that most of the world either loves or hates this &#8220;holiday&#8221; but for me, I&#8217;ve never had reason to not like it.  This is the 9th Valentine&#8217;s Day that I&#8217;ve spent with Toly and honestly, I can&#8217;t really remember any of them before that, so I&#8217;ve always [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Happy Valentines Day to you all!</p>
<p>I realize that most of the world either loves or hates this &#8220;holiday&#8221; but for me, I&#8217;ve never had reason to not like it.  This is the 9th Valentine&#8217;s Day that I&#8217;ve spent with Toly and honestly, I can&#8217;t really remember any of them before that, so I&#8217;ve always been lucky to celebrate with my valentine.</p>
<p>Just a quick background on our story:  We met in junior high, became best friends our sophomore year of high school, started dating our junior year and never broke up.  It&#8217;s one of those idealistic high school romances that makes most people sick.  Again, I&#8217;m just very lucky to have married my best friend.</p>
<h2><strong>Breakfast </strong></h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/14/lucky-im-in-love/img_0759-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11148"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11148" title="IMG_0759" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_0759-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a><em>Peach Chobani, Berries, 1/2 Banana, Chia, Granola</em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I&#8217;ve actually been straying from the flavored yogurts because they are just too sweet for my liking so I usually stick with plain, but I do love the peach.  For some reason it&#8217;s not as sweet as the others to me.  Anyone else?</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">After being pleasantly surprised at work with a dozen roses this morning, my day was quite delightful.  I ran home for lunch and filled up on what is my new favorite salad obsession this week.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Lunch</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/14/lucky-im-in-love/img_1390/" rel="attachment wp-att-11149"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11149" title="IMG_1390" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1390-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a><em>Romaine, Grilled Chicken, Black Beans, Avocado, Roasted BN Squash, Cucumbers, Roasted Broccoli, FF feta, Balsamic and Hummus  </em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">I seem to go through phases on my lunch salads and I&#8217;m not really sure how I come up with them but they are always nothing less than spectacular.  I mentioned last week that I&#8217;ve been craving grilled chicken salads for weeks and apparently, that hasn&#8217;t gone away.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">After work, I was told to stay away from the kitchen and not to come home until 6:30pm.  This is a rare demand so rather than question, I just went with it and took the opportunity to take a Body Pump class at the gym.  It&#8217;s been weeks since I&#8217;ve been able to take Pump thanks to all of my doctor&#8217;s appointments.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">When I got home, my handsome valentine was waiting with a feast that he so affectionately prepared.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/14/lucky-im-in-love/img_1397/" rel="attachment wp-att-11151"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11151" title="IMG_1397" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1397-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Haha, okay, two of my valentines were waiting…..</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Dinner</h2>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/14/lucky-im-in-love/img_1395/" rel="attachment wp-att-11150"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11150" title="IMG_1395" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1395-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Toly made the most INCREDIBLE dinner.  Pan seared sea bass (the king of all fish), roasted brussels sprouts and asparagus.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">One of my favorite meals by far!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">And for dessert….</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/14/lucky-im-in-love/img_1400/" rel="attachment wp-att-11152"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11152" title="IMG_1400" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1400-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Speaking of chocolate covered strawberries….head on over to the <a href="http://www.nutsaboutgranola.com/blog/2012/02/happy-valentines-day-from-nag/">NAG blog</a> and check a quick recipe for chocolate covered granola berries. The winner of the V-Day Chocolate Granola gift box is also announced today!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">No matter how you spent today, I hope you all were able to give a little love, take a little love and just feel loved.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">&lt;3 you all!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">
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		<title>The Lesson of Letting Go</title>
		<link>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/13/the-lesson-of-letting-go/</link>
		<comments>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/13/the-lesson-of-letting-go/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:40:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/?p=11140</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[On My Mind:  I often write about control.  I guess because it&#8217;s something that I continually battle day in and day out.  You see, I&#8217;m what they call a type A person.  I need my life to be organized, planned out and I need to be in control.  Now don&#8217;t get me wrong, I&#8217;ve made [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p><strong>On My Mind: </strong></p>
<p>I often write about control.  I guess because it&#8217;s something that I continually battle day in and day out.  You see, I&#8217;m what they call a type A person.  I need my life to be organized, planned out and I need to be in control.  Now don&#8217;t get me wrong, I&#8217;ve made tremendous strides towards letting go and even in this past year but I feel like there are significant points where I am tested just how &#8220;okay&#8221; I really am with taking the back seat.</p>
<p>One thing I vowed to do this year (and which I publicly announced to you <a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2011/10/19/my-confession-the-objective-part-3/">here</a>) was to let go of the things in my life that I felt were unhealthy obsessions. Over these past few months, I feel as though I&#8217;ve reached a much healthier place with the things I once held on so closely to and I can honestly say I feel at peace with everything.  I&#8217;m running less, I&#8217;m eating meat and I&#8217;m feeling great.  So yes, on a whole, I&#8217;ve learned to let go and even though I still struggle with these things from time to time, I know that my life is better off because of the decisions I made.</p>
<p>But sometimes, letting go is much more than we think.  It goes beyond the surface and requires us to really shed our exterior shell and trust that the voice we are listening to is the right one.  Today, I was tested in my strength and as easy as it would be for me to say, &#8220;I give up&#8221;, I realize that doing so only brings me right back to the same dark place I once was.  So even though letting go may feel like a one time occurrence, we will continue to fall along the journey.  I choose not to hold on to the past but to trust that there will be something or someone at the bottom to catch me.</p>
<p><strong>On My Plate: </strong></p>
<h2>Breakfast</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/13/the-lesson-of-letting-go/img_1152-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11143"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11143" title="IMG_1152" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1152-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a><em>Oats, Plain Greek Yogurt, Berries, Crumbled TJ&#8217;s Berry Muffin </em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Lunch</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/13/the-lesson-of-letting-go/img_1384/" rel="attachment wp-att-11141"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11141" title="IMG_1384" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1384-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a><em> Romaine, Edamame, Avocado, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Egg Whites, Goat Cheese, Edamame Hummus </em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Dinner</h2>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/13/the-lesson-of-letting-go/img_1387/" rel="attachment wp-att-11142"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11142" title="IMG_1387" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1387-600x375.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="375" /></a><em>Butternut Squash, Black Beans, Chicken Sausage, Kale, Corn Salsa</em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>On Tap for Tomorrow: </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">The WINNER of the V-Day &#8220;Chocolate&#8221; Granola Gift Box will be announced.  If you haven&#8217;t entered, <a href="http://www.nutsaboutgranola.com/blog/2012/02/v-day-box-of-chocolate-granola-giveaway/">here</a> is your last chance!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">
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		<title>The Weekender</title>
		<link>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/</link>
		<comments>http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:07:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lauren</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/?p=11121</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Another weekend wrapping up already.  Where does the time go? I had another busy weekend but tried to balance it out with some fun, relaxing, and of course being a little productive.  Let&#8217;s do a quick recap, shall we…. FUN  Getting dressed up for a girls night. Dinner out with two very good friends. Me [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Another weekend wrapping up already.  Where does the time go?</p>
<p>I had another busy weekend but tried to balance it out with some fun, relaxing, and of course being a little productive.  Let&#8217;s do a quick recap, shall we….</p>
<p><strong>FUN </strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Getting dressed up for a girls night.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/img_1358-3/" rel="attachment wp-att-11125"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11125" title="IMG_1358" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1358-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li>Dinner out with two very good friends.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/img_1368/" rel="attachment wp-att-11129"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11129" title="IMG_1368" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1368-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a>Me and <a href="http://healthy-happy-whole.com/">CJ</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/img_1369-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11130"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11130" title="IMG_1369" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1369-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a>Me and Jen</p>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li>Dinner at <a href="http://www.thehotelhershey.com/dining/harvest.php">Harvest </a></li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/img_1367-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11128"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11128" title="IMG_1367" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1367-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a><em>Wild Rice, Wheat berry, Spinach Salad with Roasted Winter Vegetables </em></p>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">Saturday night, Me, CJ, and Jen planned a long awaited girls night.  I&#8217;ve been so excited to to introduce these two and knew we would all have so much in common.  They both had never been to Harvest and were thrilled to try one of my favorite restaurants. We spent over 3 hours chatting away well into the night.  It was so wonderful to spend time with these ladies.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li>A trip to Trader Joe&#8217;s!  Toly completely surprised me today and asked if I wanted to go to Trader Joe&#8217;s.  Perhaps this was an early V-Day present, but I didn&#8217;t question it.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>NOTABLE EATS </strong></p>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li>Creamy banana spinach avocado smoothie.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/img_1351-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11122"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11122" title="IMG_1351" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_13511-400x600.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="600" /></a>This baby was delicious!  I started with 2 cups of spinach, 1/2 of a banana, 1/5 of an avocado, almond milk, and xanthan gum.  The avocado was a first for me and I have to admit, I&#8217;m hooked.  This was my idea of pure health in a glass.</p>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Roasted brussels sprouts.</li>
</ul>
<div><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/img_1353-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11123"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11123" title="IMG_1353" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1353-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></div>
<p>Lightly salted and roasted to perfection.  So delicious!</p>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Cara Cara oranges, an old favorite brought back!</li>
</ul>
<div><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/img_1374-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11133"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11133" title="IMG_1374" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1374-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Outstanding salads.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/img_1372-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-11131"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11131" title="IMG_1372" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1372-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a><em>Romaine and Spinach, Cucumber, Avocado, Roasted Butternut Squash, Black Beans, Nutritional Yeast, Grilled Chicken, Balsamic, and Hummus </em></p>
</div>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/2012/02/12/the-weekender/img_1377/" rel="attachment wp-att-11134"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11134" title="IMG_1377" src="http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_1377-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a><em>Spinach, Radish, Cucumber, Red Quinoa, Edamame, Feta Cheese, Roasted Broccoli, Sliced Almonds, Roasted Salmon </em></p>
<div style="text-align: left;"><strong>GOOD READS </strong></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/How-Healthier-During-Week-21710609?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+fitsugar+%28FitSugar+-+Healthy%2C+happy+you.%29">10 Health Choices to Make This Week</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2012/feb/12/whitney-houston-dies-aged-48?newsfeed=true">Death of a Legacy</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/02/10/valentines-day-gift-ideas_n_821157.html#s237508&amp;title=Outgoing_Classes">20 Valentine&#8217;s Day Gift Ideas</a></li>
</ul>
<div>It was a good weekend, albeit fast, but overall good.  Hope your&#8217;s was the same!</div>
<p><em><strong>If you haven&#8217;t done so yet, please head over to the <a href="http://www.nutsaboutgranola.com/blog/">NAG site</a> and enter in <a href="http://www.nutsaboutgranola.com/blog/2012/02/v-day-box-of-chocolate-granola-giveaway/">my giveaway</a> for a very special V-Day box of &#8220;chocolate&#8221; granola.  You definitely don&#8217;t want to miss this one! <img src='http://www.saywhatyouneedtosayblog.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' />  </strong></em></p>
</div>
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