Swell and Not So Swell

Making the transition from ChicoMichelle to MontagueMichelle has been interesting, but not very post-worthy when it comes to matters of beauty or style. I spend much of my days wearing a uniform in the market where I'm working - black pants, black shine-able shoes, and a polyester shirt  in maroon and off-white. It's not cute, but on the plus side, I work my butt off in that outfit and in the time that I've worked at the market (2 months), I've lost 30 lbs.

Losing weight is not easy when you are in your 40s. It requires a bit more effort, a tweaking of your work out schedule, etc. Unless, like me, you are in a business that requires constant motion. Want to lose weight?  I suggest getting a job as a bagger. (Unless you find it necessary to pay bills - in that case, you are pretty much screwed.).

I highlighted my hair a little yesterday. I feel the need to do that as soon as the weather starts warming up. Sun equals highlights in my brain, apparently. I also have some fun new products to review for you - Nexxus's new Pro-Mend anti-split-end line and Lily B's botanical skin care. Watch for those reviews later in the week.

For now, here's a photo of my cute puppy, Katmandu. I think he's swell....

Swell Talk: Jaime Pressly & Jessica Rabbit

While watching the CMT Top 20 Countdown with my girls today, it occurred to me that Jaime Pressly is like a real life version of the cartoon character Jessica Rabbit. She's blond, not a red head, and usually wearing jeans, but she's all exaggerated features and curves. Such a pretty lady. Plus, very funny.


What do you think? Here's the song, "Pray For You," by Jaron and the Long Road. I think it was #7 on the Countdown.


Image credit: All Posters.com

Swell Talk: Losing Weight, Meeting Goals, and Free Stuff!

Just a quick update..... Summer with the kids is a little distracting. Sorry!


*Due to sticking to my weekly running goal, I am now down 27 lbs. I started running in earnest (again) after barely completing what should have been a simple/easy/breezy 5K with my sister, Robin. I couldn't make myself run for very long - it was alarming. I checked my blood pressure, at the request of my good friend Scarlett, and found that I was edging into dangerous territory.

I made some easy changes to my diet and started with my 20 mile a week goal. I walked it until both my weight and blood pressure started dropping. Then, I stepped it up to 20 miles of running, which  is my current weekly goal. The running will never be easy for me, although some runs are easier than others, but I've found that it's really the only type of exercise that works this well for me.

I still have  a way to go, although skinny-mini is in no way my goal. I'm adding in a Pilates workout a few times a week and I lift weights 3 times a week.

*Losing weight has allowed me to dress in a wider variety of outfits - my clothes fit again. WooHoo! I enjoy dressing to make myself feel happy, but it does feel wonderful to hear compliments again.

*Today is the last day to take advantage of Victoria's Secret Free panty offer. The free panty is your choice of one of Lacie Thongs or one of the Pink All Lace Thongs. To qualify for the free offer, you need to purchase one of their push-up bras. 

*Big Beautyful Mess is running a giveaway. Do you like jewelry? Do you like diamond jewelry? You do? Then, this is the giveaway for you. Click here for full giveaway details. And good luck!

I hope you are enjoying your Summer, too!

Image credit: Chase Your Bliss Photography