Reading Detour

I am still reading Decision Points by George W. Bush but I had to take a temporary detour and read Patti Stanger's Become Your Own Matchmaker: 8 Easy Steps for Attracting Your Perfect Mate. The book recommend came from a very sweet high school friend that sent me a very thoughtful message. Anyway, it was a very good book. Most of it was obvious information, but it was helpful for getting me in the mindset of dating again.

The thing about dating after a divorce that I think will be weird is not bringing up the past. Granted, I know that it wouldn't be healthy or productive to dredge up old relationship issues and discuss those on the first (or second, or third) date. BUT, how do I let someone get to know me without occasionally mentioning the past 10 years of my life. Seems weird. I'm sure I'll figure it out. On a funny note, a co-worker told me the other day that I am a real catch. Wanna know why he thinks I am a catch? I come fully equipped with health insurance. ha! So, if my cheery personality doesn't reel them in I guess I have something else to sweeten the pot. Nice.

Still boycotting all things domestic, in a happy non-bitter way.

It's so weird that I still haven't cooked. I did fry an egg the other day and I'll make a piece of toast every few days, but that's as far as I've taken it. I have been following the Zone Diet (when not dining out, which I need to stop doing so much of) and my protein is usually deli meat, my carbs are fruits and veggies (uncooked), and my fat is almonds. Sounds kind of boring, but when I stick to it I end up feeling like a million bucks. It is by far the best way to eat...it's not really a diet, just how we all should be eating in the first place.

Even though I am watching what I eat, I am still getting excited about my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving (although I will be forced to make sweet potato casserole to take to our family dinner, which totally breaks my non-cooking trend). I am normally thinking about my Christmas shopping now, making my list and checking it twice. I am usually already itching to get my Christmas decor/tree up (which I have no interest in this year). I haven't really thought about it much. Funny though, I am not dreading the holidays like people may expect. Maybe this new single lifestyle that I am getting used to is helping me relax a little bit. My future is unknown and I can't really be the annoying list-making planner that I've always been. Plus, after Christmas is the best thing ever...a brand new year! I am definitely not wishing my holidays away but I am looking forward to an exciting 2011. Bring on the turkey and dressin', the Christmas music, and a festive cocktail to start the new year!

Now currently reading...

Decision Points by President George W. Bush. It is a really good read so far and I like the structure of the book. Whether or not you agree with his political decisions, he is a likable guy (and actually pretty funny). I think history will be kind to him.

The Blessings of Friendship

Sometimes when one is going through a major life change, it is easy to focus on the negative and scary aspects of transition. While I have my moments, it is really hard for me to have a pity party because I am surrounded by so many wonderful friends. Sometimes I wonder how I got so lucky.

Friendships come in varying degrees of closeness and purpose, but all are meaningful in their own way. Some friends are great if you need a good cry and want to show vulnerability. Some friends tell it like it is, force you to realize your worth (and even tell you when you are dead wrong). Some friends are great for a good time...when you don't really want to have a deep talk. Some come out of the woodwork to share a similar experience just so you know you aren't alone and offer some encouragement. Some just pray for you.

There are people in my life that represent the above descriptions. A few of my friends have many or all of these qualities. So, I am thankful for all of the dear friendships I share.

What am I reading?

Ok, since I now only have 2 hobbies (working out and reading), I thought I would post what I am currently reading and make updates every time I start a new book.

So, I am now reading Jen Lancaster's Bitter is the New Black : Confessions of a Condescending, Egomaniacal, Self-Centered Smartass,Or, Why You Should Never Carry A Prada Bag to the Unemployment Office. It is hilarious and I recommend Jen Lancaster to any girl wanting to read a funny chick-lit type book. I have also read Lancaster's My Fair Lazy: One Reality Television Addict's Attempt to Discover If Not Being A Dumb Ass Is the New Black, or, a Culture-Up Manifesto, which is my absolute favorite, and Bright Lights, Big Ass: A Self-Indulgent, Surly, Ex-Sorority Girl's Guide to Why it Often Sucks in the City, or Who are These Idiots and Why Do They All Live Next Door to Me? . I think this lady is my soul sister as I often read and wonder if I wrote the book myself.

You may be going through a divorce if....

This is all you buy on a shopping trip to Target.



These items in their individual form represent nothing, but when grouped together they scream divorce. Of all the things I left with my soon to be ex-husband, the scale shouldn't have been one of them. I am in the weight loss mindset so I need the scale to keep me on track. I needed the wine to help me unwind, and don't even get me started on the skin firming lotion...just know it's needed (and I am crazy enough right now to go get liposuction...I'm trying to stop the madness by buying some cheapie lotion). So, there you have it.

Happy Monday!