Let it snow.

It's one of those days in Milwaukee. The day before a snow storm.

If you're from an area that gets a lot of snow, you probably know where I am coming from.

Look familiar?

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A 'WINTER STORM WARNING' has been issued for tomorrow, and the hype has officially begun. Tonight, all of the local news teams will compete for ratings by interrupting regular programming with the latest updates. There will be reporters broadcasting from street corners, bundled up from head to toe. Community closing notices will frame television screens for hours. These news stations exaggerate to the point of silliness.

For me, a snow day tomorrow will mean working from my living room instead of my office. No biggie. Perhaps it will be a good day to bake while working?

Anyway. Yesterday's mini-goal #2 of having a healthy lunch was a success, with a delicious meal from Louise's. It's a great, quick restaurant in the eastern part of Downtown, across from Cathedral Square Park.

I love the decor, it's modern and fresh. The kitchen is open to the restaurant, which is always cool to gaze at.

A highlight of dining at Louise's, is the heavenly tomato-rubbed bread that they serve with oil and balsamic vinegar. Divine.

For my meal, I chose a bowl of healthy lentil soup, and a salad with baby greens, walnuts and gorgonzola.

Today, I ventured out into the cold and walked to Shah Jee's for some crack, aka chana masala. No photos, it never photographs well! Let me assure you, it did not disappoint.

Back to work and then two more house showings. G'day!

New year, new workout gear

Happy 2010, blog friends!

Check it out - one of my favorite stores, Forever 21, now carries workout gear!

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Now we can all pick up acid-washed sweatpants and metallic plaid high-tops, and look the part of fashion victims at the gym :-)

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Seriously though, there are some cute duds available... I like this Heritage '81 sweatshirt and the criscross jumpsuit.

Don't really know if I'd wear the jumpsuit to anything but a dance class, but as it's impractical, it's still adorable and retro :-)

It has been pretty crazy at work, and Zak and I have scheduled to look at three homes tonight (!!!), however I started today with two simple goals:

1. Have two snacks this AM (instead of breakfast + snack): granola bar with a small banana, and almonds with a clementine.

2. Eat a healthy lunch. This will happen in about one hour, I am planning to get Pakistani (chana masala - mmmm) or a large salad.

I find that by setting mini-goals for myself at the beginning of the day, it's easier to stay focused and calm in the midst of an otherwise hectic schedule!

What are your goals for today?

Farewell, 2009!

I can't believe that it's New Year's Eve!

This year seemed to go by so quickly. It was packed with happy moments, some sad ones, some I'd never like to think about again. Some milestones were had:

- I graduated with my B.A. in Communication

- I traveled to Colorado Springs and Las Vegas for the first time, also visiting Boston and Nashville for the second time

- Zak and I celebrated our five year anniversary :-)

- I discovered a new fitness passion, horseback riding

- This blog was created in June! It's been an excellent creative outlet, and I just love being more involved within this excellent community of bloggers. Can't wait to do more!

Last year, I had one main New Year's resolution: to spend more time with family and friends, and I feel that I definitely did that! I took two trips to see my sister, visited with my parents more often, and feel closer to everyone as a result. I'd love to see my girlfriends more often, but in the meantime I love our dinners and occasional nights out.

Some resolutions that I have in mind for 2010:

Personal goals:

- Research and buy my first home (with Zak!)

- Put as much money as possible into savings

- Get engaged? :-D

Fitness goals:

- Continue to be as active as possible, each day

- Continue with horseback riding lessons, and start on the trails in the spring!

- Find a good yoga group and practice at least once per week

- Get back into running shape, and possibly do a race in the spring / summer

Healthy eating goals:

- Make at least 3 healthy dinners per week (planning for leftovers). For me, the big thing is dedicating the time to make this happen.

- For lunches at work, limit eating out to once per week

- STOP frequenting coffee shops, take advantage of the free espresso at work

What are your resolutions and goals for 2010?

Tonight's plans include a concert with Spoon and Jay Reatard at our largest venue, the Riverside Theater. I've spent every New Year's Eve for the past 6 years, at work! Luckily I am able to bring Zak and some friends along with to enjoy :-) What are you up to for NYE?