Thru Michelle's Eyes....:-)

Im in LOVE with this song.... ;o)

2011-10-07T20:20:00.001-07:00

Do you really know how to LOVE a woman???

2011-10-04T16:33:00.000-07:00

Incredible tips on how to really love a woman..., and the truths I learned from being the object of a extraordinary love is with me today and my friends that complain about men ;o/..... I will be forever grateful to all those who taught me what I love and what I dislike about how a MAN treats a woman... I have set the bar incredibly high...

Here’s the List:

+ Share your feelings of love, devotion, and COMMITMENT with her..... Especially when the infatuation has faded....

+ Touch her: hold her hand,,, rub the back of her neck,,, kiss her in public,, rest your hand on the small of her back,,, guide her through a crowd,,, offer your hand when she’s getting out of the car, rub her legs,,, massage her feet...;o)

+ Look up at her every so often when you’re busy.... Let your eyes do the talking.... They should say, “I admire you....I'm proud of you... I’m so happy we’re together.... I love you.”

+ Always make sure she knows what you want to give her.... Speak and demonstrate the life she will have with you....

+ Be a TRUE man..... Have an old fashioned side to you....HONESTY!!!! number 1... Buck up when you have to.... Cultivate character because she needs to be able to TRUST your rock-solid values;.. be strong in your life,,,,especially your work and your self-respect..... Be confident.

+ Make her feel that,,, if it’s within your power,,, you will give her the things her heart desires... A good woman will never take advantage of this.... She will only become sweeter and she will shower you with appreciation and respect.....

+ Tell her you love her children and want to provide a great life for them..... Very important... Act loving and engaged when you are around them.... Remember that it’s on YOU to build the relationship with them,,,, not the other way around.

+ Love to have fun with her.... Go out,, see things,,, do things,,, exercise with her,,, dance with her, take her out to eat,,, squeeze her in public.... LAUGH A LOT!

+ Be a man of your word:.. Call when you say you will,,, show up on time,,, don’t cancel on her, don’t keep her guessing.... SHOW YOUR INTEREST in a loving,,, self-respecting way.

+ Tell her she’s the most beautiful woman you’ve ever seen and really mean it.....

+ Never point out her surface flaws....EVER.. She already knows them... She harbors the secret hope that you don’t notice them...;o)

+ Be patient if she takes a little longer to do her hair and make-up... She wants to be gorgeous for you.

+ Tell her that you think her calloused feet are beautiful.... Kiss them.... Then massage them... She will brag about this to all her friends and they will want to marry you too...

+ Be both a visualizer with huge goals,,, AND a man of action... Having both of these traits will set you worlds apart from most men.

+ Be a skillful and generous lover.... Take your time and adore her body.... Do what it takes to please her... Create the ideal environment for her to be fully adventurous with you.....

+ Do not sleep with everything in a skirt,,, Do not cheat... IF you wouldn't say it or do it around your wife or girl.. "It's CHEATING!!! We lose respect for you,, and the relationship is over.. Who wants a man you cant trust!!?? But someone who will LOVE,, Cherish her beyond anything or anyone... And is strong in heart and MIND that he would let nothing hurt or harm his relationship with you....That he would never wanna hurt or disappoint you...

+ Tell her you can’t wait to marry her (when you’ve gotten to that point) and let her know that you ache for the moment when you can live under the same roof with her.... ;o)

Last but MOST important be a man of god,, a spiritual soul.... You will connect on a much stronger deeper level....

FOR ALL THE GUYS READING THIS: ..There are incredible, loving, beautiful women out there who are looking for a guy JUST LIKE YOU.... Do not buy into the lie that there are “no good women” left, or even that they are in scarce supply.... BUT>>>If they will cheat with you they will cheat on you!!!! If what you’re REALLY AFTER is a quality woman with whom you can share your life with,,, keep your eyes OPEN and be intentional about choosing exactly that... And yes gentlemen, I think you should have a GORGEOUS woman who rocks your world:... Someone who can keep up with you intellectually AND with whom you have electrifying attraction....

Decide that you want BOTH beauty and quality.
Be a GOOD man, and on a MISSION in life.
Keep your eyes open.... Pray over the well-being of your future wife every day... Imagine what it’s like for her – out there without you.
Watch the magic happen.

FOR ALL MY GIRLS READING THIS: Do not buy into the horrible lie that you have to be elusive or “bitchy” to keep a man interested.... There is a crazy agreement in our generation that coldness is power.... That persona attracts IMMATURE jerks who’s EGO is fed by “the chase.”... Last I checked, none of us want those guys... No Bueno!!!

A lot of you are NOT wired to be elusive and bitchy.... (Thank God!) But as a result, I sense a REAL resignation that goes something like “Oh, well, I’m not good at playing games, so I’ll just have to settle with not getting the guy I REALLY want.... Or I’ll have to be more bitchy and withholding to keep his interest.” Screw that!!!

NO! NO! NO! You don’t!... There have been plenty of amazing, handsome, spiritual, strong men that have come into my path and I am TELLING YOU STRAIGHT UP,,,,the world is full of them....

Wishing you all BLISS,,, adventure,,, and a love that fills your heart beyond measure...... XOxo Michelle

Cauliflower Crust Pizza

2011-09-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

It may sound so wrong, but it’s just so right:... Cauliflower Crust Pizza. I found this recipe and am really excited to try it.... The entire crust is only 434 calories, which is just insane. Usually a single slice of pizza will cost you 400 calories alone. With this cauliflower version, one serving is just 109 calories. Crazy… Anyway, I have posted the recipe for you below. I’d love to hear what you think about it after giving it a try…

Serves 2

Ingredients

1 cup cooked, riced cauliflower
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon crushed garlic
½ teaspoon garlic salt
olive oil (optional)
pizza sauce, shredded cheese and choice of your toppings*

Instructions

To "rice" the Cauliflower: Take 1 large head of fresh cauliflower, remove stems and leaves, and chop the florets into chunks. Add to food processor and pulse until it looks like grain. Do not over-do pulse or you will puree it. (If you don't have a food processor, you can grate the whole head with a cheese grater). Place the riced cauliflower into a microwave safe bowl and microwave for 8 minutes. There is no need to add water, as the natural moisture in the cauliflower is enough to cook itself. One large head should produce approximately 3 cups of riced cauliflower. The remainder can be used to make additional pizza crusts immediately, or can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

To Make the Pizza Crust:

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, stir together 1 cup cauliflower, egg and mozzarella. Add oregano, crushed garlic and garlic salt, stir. Transfer to the cookie sheet, and using your hands, pat out into a 9" round. Optional: Brush olive oil over top of mixture to help with browning.
Bake at 450 degrees for 15 minutes.
Remove from oven.
To the crust, add sauce, toppings and cheese. Place under a broiler at high heat just until cheese is melted (approximately 3-4 minutes).

*Note: Toppings need to be precooked since you are only broiling for a few minutes.

Songs I relate too

2011-09-07T13:09:00.000-07:00

Song about myself....;o)

2011-09-07T13:07:00.001-07:00

Cute yummy cookies

2011-09-07T12:54:00.000-07:00

When a warm, gooey, delicious cookie calls, bring out your waffle iron. I was on Pinterest a few days ago (one of my newest obsessions) and I came across the cutest idea: bake a quick batch of cookies using a waffle maker! Genius. It’s the perfect solution when you don’t want a full batch of cookies or want cook a few up after dinner. I also think they would be adorable to serve to guests with small bowl of ice cream…

Simply mix up the batter and refrigerate or freeze it until you get a cookie craving. When that sweet tooth strikes, pull out the dough and your waffle iron and voila—you have toasty, melty cookies in a matter in seconds.

I made the waffle cookies and they were absolutely delicious, just as promised! I based my recipe on the a recipe from Fine Cooking (this will make about 12 cookies), but changed a few of the measurements:

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats (try not to use instant)
½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
Optional: Add a handful of walnuts (I did this and it was delicious!)

Cookie Dough Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the butter and brown sugar until smooth.
Mix in eggs and vanilla. Continue to whisk.
Add in flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir well.
Lastly, add in oats and chocolate chips (and walnuts, if you’re using them) and mix.

Cooking Directions

1. Heat waffle iron. (Note: I suggest waiting until you’ve mixed up the batter since waffle irons can get too hot if left heating for too long, which will burn the cookies!)

2. Coat griddle with cooking spray.

3. Using an ice cream scoop, scoop the dough onto each waffle square.

4. Close iron and cook until set for about 90 seconds. (The first batch took about 90 seconds, but as the griddle got hotter they needed less and less time!)

5. Using a pair of tongs, carefully remove the waffle cookie from the iron and transfer onto a wire rack to cool.

6. Repeat, let cool and enjoy! My roommates and I enjoyed a few while they were still warm in a bowl with vanilla ice cream… Let’s just say, they were divine.

The cookies will keep for about 2-3 days in an airtight container…

Next time I might try making them with a snicker doodle recipe and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top!

Happy Baking... Michelle

Favorite Summer Dessert

2011-09-07T12:45:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite desserts EVER.. . Great for summer ... or anytime ;). this recipe is like an english trifle but with greek yogurt instead, so just as delicious AND better for you. ENJOY :) p.s. use the low fat angel food cake in this recipe ! Add your own combo of fruits as well.

4 cup(s) of angel food cake
1 cup(s) of greek yogurt with honey
1 cup(s) of red rasberries
1/2 cup(s) of strawberries
1/4 cup(s) of blueberries

This makes me smile.... Sooo Sweet... I like to think the Beluga is dancing to their music!):

2011-09-07T12:44:00.000-07:00

Favorite Bedding (Urban Outfitters)

2011-09-07T12:39:00.000-07:00

Favorite Bedroom

2011-09-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

Favorite Dogs

2011-09-07T12:33:00.000-07:00

English Bulldog

Boxer
Bernese Mountain Dog
Siberian Husky

Wow... Wow.... Love this wedding gown

2011-09-07T12:32:00.000-07:00

Favorite Sparkly shoe.... ;o)

2011-09-07T12:29:00.000-07:00

Favorite Destinations.............

2011-09-06T21:22:00.001-07:00

Bora Bora.....;o)

Italy
Ireland

2011-09-06T21:19:00.000-07:00

Adele is Amazing.....

2011-09-06T18:01:00.000-07:00

2011-09-06T17:54:00.000-07:00

Cousin Wendell & Monica

Brooke, Papa, Me...;o)

Burgess Falls Family Reunion

2011-09-06T17:41:00.001-07:00

Such a beautiful Incredible Place I grew up and enjoyed many friends, family and special memories here....This is where we gather for our family reunion every year.... Time for kisses & hugs to Aunts, uncles, cousins and cute babies.... I always enjoy spending time with family that I haven't seen all year...

. They travel from as far as Florida to California.... Probably one of my favorites is enjoying the southern cooking from all my aunts... So So delicious!!!

Favorite Nail Paint

2011-09-06T15:53:00.001-07:00

Favorite casual weekend outfit

2011-09-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flowers

2011-09-06T15:45:00.000-07:00

In general the hydrangeastands for friendship, devotion, and understanding.

The hydrangea has magical properties as well. According to folklore, if a witch put a curse on an unlucky man or woman the hydrangea could be used to break the curse.....

Favorite Flowers

2011-09-06T15:37:00.000-07:00

Tiger Lily The Tiger Lily stands for wealth and prosperity.

Favorite Flowers

2011-09-06T15:21:00.000-07:00

Favorite Flowers...........

Peony

Peonies are known as the flower of riches and honor. With their lush, full, rounded bloom, peonies embody romance and prosperity and are regarded as an omen of good fortune and a happy marriage.

2011-09-06T15:14:00.001-07:00

2011-09-06T14:27:00.000-07:00

Cotton Candy Martini

Recipe

1 1/2 ounces vodka
1/2 ounce x-rated fusion liqueur
1 ounce cranberry juice
pink cotton candy

1. 1
  Put the cotton candy in the martini glass.
2. 2
  Put the rest of the ingredients in a shaker and shake well.
3. 3
  Pour cocktail over the cotton candy, it dissolves instantly so present the glass before pouring.
4. 4
  Enjoy!

Someday will never come... Time to grow

2011-09-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a great Labor Day
weekend!!!

I took this weekend to do some soul
searching and I want to share what
opened up out of that..

As I was walking in the neighborhood with no worries on
my mind I realized in that moment
that there was nothing else I needed
in life to be happy..... nothing outside
of myself was required for me to be
happy.

It became very clear to me that all the
things, accomplishments, money, fame
is not who we are. We can exist in
total bliss without any of it...and
in many cases we are actually happier
without it to begin with.... ironic, I know....

So the question is... what is everyone
really chasing after?

We all know that money will never
make us happy, yet look at the stress
we allow it to cause in our society. We
risk our health, our relationships, our
current happiness and time all in the
pursuit of money and the illusion that
once we get it then everything will
turn out just fine....

How do I know this? Because I have
been caught in the illusion most of my
life... It is only now that I am waking up
to the true beauty of life in this present
moment... rather than living for some
day.

Some day is never coming. Now is all
we got!

But money is not what brings happiness
at all. It is the contentment within ourselves
and the inner knowing and faith that we
will be okay that truly brings us the peace
we want. The real challenge and triumph
is to have that faith and peace even in the
face of no money or whatever challenges
we are facing in life.....

That is true power when you have faith
in the face of challenges and you continue
to take actions walking in faith.... powerful!

If you are facing any kind of challenge
including financial challenges take it on
as an opportunity to grow and expand
your capacity to trust and have faith.

That is why we are here... to grow!

So, where can you take action today to get
present to your life NOW and stop living
for someday?

What have you been putting off that is
important to you that you could start
today?

Today is the first day of the rest of your
life...

Play full out and follow your heart!

Love and Light

Michelle xoxoxo

Grammy Fowler's Chocolate Gravy

2011-01-25T21:12:00.000-08:00

When I was growing up in Tennessee, I lived with my Grammy Fowler until I was 8 years old... I loved Exploring the old barn behind the house,climbing trees, Running around the cool, dark basement filled with Pa's tools, Granny's canning supplies & my dad's workout & boxing equipment... Horsing around with my cousins & my friends on Highland Ave. in Cookeville, Tn.. Behind 1st Tennessee Bank, I miss that place...

But the best part was waking up to a house already filling with breakfast smells -- eggs, country ham -- and walking into the kitchen to find that Granny had made a batch of biscuits and her famous chocolate gravy.!!!! My Grammy was a fabulous cook.. Another favorite was her homemade Cherry Pie, the crust was flaky & beautiful basket weaved on top.... Maybe I will put that one on next... ;o)

To this day, I've never heard of chocolate gravy outside my family. I asked Granny why she ever started cooking it. She told me it was because my grandfather's mom had made it for him, and Granny wanted to make Pa something familiar -- yet special -- when they were newlyweds.

I can't think of anything better than this....;o)

Okay, let's get one thing out of the way: Yes, the notion of chocolate gravy for breakfast is ludicrous! I mean, it's basically a sort of chocolate pudding served on biscuits.

It's ridiculous. I don't care.

And neither will you.

I very much fuel my body with healthy foods.. But you are just not living if you don't reward yourself sometimes... This is a wonderful comfort food...(just not often) ;o)

The next time you want to make someone feel special (even if it's yourself!), make up a batch of buttermilk biscuits, douse them in this rich, gooey, chocolaty deliciousness, and watch the smiles light up around your table..... Enjoy... ;o)

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons cocoa powder

1/3 cup sugar

2 cups whole milk

1 tablespoon butter

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Mix dry ingredients well. Slowly add milk until mixture is smooth. Cook very slowly over low heat, stirring frequently. When it gets thick enough, remove from stove. Add vanilla and butter.

Enjoy over biscuits.

Refreshed

2010-03-31T05:26:00.000-07:00

Gday all
The turning of Seasons is the turning of time. It’s warmer now in Tennesse and I’m absolutely loving it, April is here can you believe it! 2010 is going so fast. Are you working towards your goals?…Have you achieved one of your New Years Resolutions yet?

The best way to stay inspired with yourself is to stay Motivated, keep your goals in sight. A good way that helps me to stay inspired is to write out your goals, short term and long term every single day so that you keep yourself aware of what you are reaching for.
I have many different goals that i wish to achieve and yes it is about conquering them one day at a time, step by step! Firstly you need to ask yourself are you working hard on your own to achieve your goals? It’s easy to make excuses or even blame someone else.

Remember that YOU are the only one that can make YOUR dreams come true. It all comes down to the hard work, perseverance and belief you have in yourself to accomplish anything you set your mind to. Yes you better bloody believe it, it comes down to YOU!

A good Start is on the way you look…because the way you act and feel all comes from your physical body and how comfortable you feel in your own skin. You need to love yourself! This sounds funny but thats what you need to do, you are beautiful and you are fabulous so LOVE YOURSELF.
A tip to this is to be FEARLESS about it. A good way to be fearless it to develop your talents as well as find something new that you have never done, maybe it could be a new hobby!!

I recently took up Spin and kickboxing Class which i have never ever done before, i ended up throughly enjoying it, it was challenging because firstly i had only been bike riding on a bike that actually moved and Spinning on a stationary bike is very different (you click your shoes into the pedals and everything) and also kickboxing where the teacher had me punching poses for soooo long which was really difficult. it was very very different to all the dance training i have had but it made me step out of what i know and become fearless and a tip that i will leave you with is: “You can’t underestimate the confidence that comes from trying something new”
Because when you try something new and then feel great about it, then it will allow you to see how easy it can be, to then conquer your own goals.
So Go get em……!!!

xoxo Michelle

Health, Diet & Exercise

2010-01-04T17:29:00.000-08:00

“I eat pretty clean. I focus on eating natural healthy food that’s valuable to my body and I also indulge here and there on sweets. I don’t like to poison myself with fake sugars in processed foods. I read everything I buy and pay special attention to the nutritional labels as well as the ingredient list. Reading the ingredient list let’s you find things you might miss or should avoid — things like artificial sweeteners or hydrogenated oils.”

“I also eat a lot of whole grains … oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa flakes, grits and wheat toast along with my veggies and lean meats.

I try to keep follow the guideline that if I can’t recognize it in it’s natural form from the Earth, then I don’t eat it. So I stay away from canned food, fast food and most things from a box that are overly-processed. ”

“If you take the time to look, research and explore, there are some really cool stores that have interesting, unique and healthy treats. I’m not talking about Atkins and low carb gimmicks. I’m talking about whole natural foods. “

I love Whey Protein... I have shake every day along with my vitamins. A shake when 30 min to an hour before workout... I take L-Glutamine after workouts to help with recovery and to keep my muscle and curves. And a lot.... I mean a lot of other ones that help with skin, fiber, mulit V., etc. You should check with your doc. before taking a wide range of vitamins...

Cheat Meals.....

“It really depends on my activity level and how I look, ”If I’m training really hard and I look great and I’m maintaining [my figure] I’ll splurge and indulge in whatever I fancy. But I won’t gorge on stuff.... If I’m looking a little sloppy, I monitor what I eat more closely and make adjustments.....”

“Fitness is about health – so your goal should be about improving your health and well-being. No steroids, and no dangerous supplements like fat burners or diet pills, especially caffeine pills!!!!!.This drives me insane... You are wanting a healthy body & you are putting all this bad stuff in your body...??? Doesn't make much since... Also, the silly practice of eliminating certain food groups is just counterproductive..... There’s nothing healthy about it. At its root, that type of extreme dieting probably indicates an emotional issue that needs to be worked out..... It’s less about diet, then about control. It’s the kind of behavior that can lead to eating disorders.”

“Some women get so focused on being thin..... How often do you hear men saying “Yeah, look at that girl, the one with no curves. She’s so hot and skinny.” In my opinion, it’s not attractive.”

“I think a woman is sexy when she has tone, muscle definition, curves and her body is tight from training, not starving. She looks strong and powerful and it shows in her personality and self-confidence.”

“Unfortunately, girls who fall in the trap of buying into the lie that ”skinny is better or more healthy” are probably struggling with a weakness or emotional issue on the inside that’s as dangerous as the outward, physical weakness that comes along with starving yourself. I have the same opinion on sloppy people, who don’t care about their health, allow themselves to become lazy and let themselves go.”

“Taking care of yourself is hard work and it takes commitment. There are definitely days that I don’t want to workout. But I push myself anyway, because it’s important. I always feel better that I did.” :)

My workout... Might not be for you... Check with your Trainer

“Typically I do three sets per exercise for 12-15 reps, using a weight that causes me to fatigue somewhere in that range. I usually do a four day split. So on one day I’ll do back, biceps, and abs. The next workout will be legs, calves and abs. The third workout will be shoulders, chest and triceps and the last workout I’ll go back to legs, calves and abs.

“I do a minimum of three different exercises per muscle group. For example, on back days I’ll do lat pull-downs at 100 lbs, bent-over dumbbell rows at 45 lbs and cable rows at 80 lbs. I then follow-up with two bicep exercises and three ab exercises. ”

“On my non-weight training days, I do a 30 minute cardio session. I usually prefer the Stepmill because it tones and tightens my glutes the best. I’ll also skip every-other step to hit a larger range of motion. I also will do the elliptical trainer at high-intensity and a slow-to-moderate pace. I like to use more resistance to keep my muscle hard....
“I try to change my routine up every two or three weeks.”

My Favorite:...“I love training legs because it’s where I need the most growth and it keeps my butt plump. I love doing deadlifts. I use a 80-90lb straight bar. My second favorite muscle group to train are shoulders. I like the definition it adds to my upper body.”

“Make it a priority and a habit — like brushing your teeth. You have to do it. Eventually, you will love it because the way it makes you look and feel. It takes a little time, but the results will come and they’ll motivate you to keep it up, no matter what your current fitness or experience level is.”

“Avoid taking long breaks from working out. It will make it even more difficult to get back in the groove again. Although you might not have the best workout of your life when you’re tired or lack motivation, just getting yourself in the gym will make you feel better when you’re done. More importantly, you’ll have kept up your routine, which is critical to long-term success.”

Keep the Faith.....

“Anything I’ve ever dreamed and imagined, I’ve been able to produce with my effort.. ..I don’t think I’m special in that regard — I think everyone has that potential... At the end of the day, effort counts more than talent, genetics, money, privilege and intelligence.”

“If you want to lose 200 lbs, you can....! If you want to change your lifestyle you can.... If you want to compete in a fitness competition, you can.... No one is holding you back except your own fears and lack of focus. You just have to concentrate and put 100 percent of your effort behind whatever goal you have. It’s not as hard as it seems, especially when you believe, and dream and imagine" :-)

Good Luck, Michelle

Getting to know a lil about me.....

2010-01-03T21:22:00.000-08:00

♥ ♥ Michelle rhymes with Bell... Call me.. Michelle my bell if you want.. Ha... My Dad did when I was a little girl.. And old Beatles song...he would sing the verse to me all the time... Michelle My Bell!!! Ha Ha.. Another nick name as a child was monkey.. I loved to climb and flip on everything...lol.. For most of my childhood I was a tomboy! I enjoy dancing around my house, sleeping in and good conversation with good friends. I LOVE MUSIC!!! Can't go a day without it...... I am guarded but I am a hopeless romantic. I Love to Smile...♥♥♥ My favorite color is purple.. I am truly a cancer sign, every trait good and bad, is me.... I was born In Michigan and raised in Tennessee. I am a sweet Southern Belle.. I love the sun & water and wish there was no such thing as UVA and UVB. I can throw a football like a dude (thanks for that dad). I broke my wrist in the 3rd grade and had to give up my aggressive rollerskating skills.. My dream was to be a professional Cheerleader, gymnast, iceskater champion, and a dentist..Yeah I know..LOL... That changed as I got older, I am very happy with what I have accomplished so far... I take a lot of vitamins everyday and think you should do the same. My biggest fear is failure in everything I do.

I love surprises but enjoy being the surpriser more than the surprisee. The first time I learned how to play poker-I won. I am very competitive. Most days I will take on any Challange and I will demolish you.lol.. I love a good Challange!!!! Monopoly on the other hand, stresses me out and I will most likely lose and not talk to you for a while. I've been known to dress up just because..even if I stay at home,because it makes me feel good...I stay cold alot in winter and summer in my house so I wear sweats...Burrrr...

I love garlic crablegs and a ice cold bud light anytime... Football is a favorite sport, nothing better than a Sunday at LP field watching my Favorite team...=) .. The lake and wakeboarding are on top of my list, it's truly the closest thing to heaven to me....besides my family.. I am into cars, don't know why I just love them, fast ones, big ones, small ones.. (Not slow ones).Ha.. An Aston Martin DBS Volante is like sex on wheels... It is gorgeous... I trade cars every couple years,I am ready after a year most of the time, they come out with something new and I have to have it....LOL...

When I get nervous or anxious I fidget.. I am obessed with teeth and flossing.. Did you know that flossing is essential to living a longer life?? Please floss...LOL... Guys... There is nothing worse than a man with bad dental hygiene, although body hygiene is just as important.. Just keep it all maintained... Please...When walking with someone I favor the right side, that's my right, your left... LOL.. Im a little OCD... My car has to be clean inside and out, but I can't stand for a drawer to be left partially open it drives me CRAZY!!!! I am a huge Dog lover!!! Horses too!!I believe that good attentions are great, but words are just words when they aren't backed up with action.. If I say it, I do it!!

I don't have a jealous bone in my body, I am comfortable with who I am and what I have, could careless what someone else has.. If I want it then I will do something about it... I believe there are 2 kinds of people in this world, WINNERS & LOSERS. Winners make the rules and losers live by them. Meaning.... I don't do anything I don't wanna do, The only things I'm tempted by is shopping, chocolate, and my love♥ and those are 3 pretty good things!!! I feel that a very important quality in someone is depth and I feel that I possess that... People, emotions, touch me to the very depths of my soul... I can't watch Extreme Makeover: Home Edition it makes me cry everytime...LOL.. I also can't watch shows where someone is being operated on.. I feel their pain...Ha.. I cringe at the site of it... I guess that blew the dentist dream, huh....... I am very strong but also very weak when It comes to something I love...But I def. Have a good balance at this time in my life...Im a very lucky Ladie, surrounded by love and a great life, I am truly blessed... = )....

I have made sacrifices in life... But you got to live your life to the fullest. This is a small description about me...Ha.. I know it dosen't look that way, but I have so many more layers... I used to think I was a lot more complicated than I am. But truthfully, we are all complicated. The key is figuring yourself out and the rest comes a bit easier.

I believe

That you get what you give. If you surround yourself with negative vibes & negative people you attract that into your life. I've realized I am in control of what happens TO me and around me. I thank my lucky stars I am happy, healthy and loved. For now that is enough for me. God Family Friends Career... Those four make me a VERY happy woman. I have a pretty decent list of accomplishments in my life that make me smile, but I am very humble. I appreciate them in my head and I don't like to brag or steal spotlight. I am a well rounded person who loves seeing others succeed as well.

I am myself and though not perfect, satisfied. So do not be afraid to talk to me. You're not weird, or wait, if you are so am I. Please tell me a funny joke. It will put a smile on my face. Life is beautiful and life is crazy. Life is hard and life really hurts sometimes. Life is indescribable, always. I have had my heart broken and I have been a heart breaker.. But one lesson I have learned, I will not keep my heart in a box.. I will be open and experience everything that I deserve, and I was not allowing it..But not anymore..So bring it on...Ha. I have had a tough year, but also amazing.. It's a little bitter sweet... But like always I will make it through and make it even more amazing!! :) Thank you to my Best Friend, you have always been there as long as I can remember.. Im so glad to have you in my life..:)

Thanks for reading my novel.. :)

What I know about Fitness...

2009-12-29T23:27:00.000-08:00

First, if you are a woman, you need to set aside your fears of getting too muscular and “bulking up” and start lifting weights. The bottom line is that most women — unless they have unusual genetics that cause them to put on gobs of muscle or are on anabolic steroids — will never build the kind of “freaky” muscle mass you see in professional female bodybuilders.

Most women, no matter how heavy they lifted or how frequently they performed resistance training, Most women just don’t have the hormonal environment for that kind of mass (most of the time Men don't either....) In fact, Some women pack on more muscle then men do.... But that is very few... So forget about bulking up!!!!

Stop worrying about ”bulking up” !!!! it’s probably keeping you from reaching your fitness goals and it’s inhibiting your ability to build that muscle definition and shape that you are likely looking for.

If you are currently performing 60 minutes or more of cardio a day and NOT dedicating at least three days a week to weight training, it’s going to keep you from getting a ”toned body.” You cannot run or stair-step your way to muscle (unless your are using some major resistance on the stair stepper or elliptical, and even then, your gains will be modest.)

If you are performing long-duration cardio on a daily basis along with your weight training, you are going to have difficulties adding much muscle. In fact, it may actually cause you to lose muscle, which can lead to the “fat skinny” syndrome, where you have low scale weight, but higher body-fat-to-lean-muscle ratios. This is not going to give you a tight, “toned” look.

There are exceptions, of course. For instance, if you are already carrying a large amount of muscle on your frame, you may be able to afford some muscle loss as part of an effort to strip off additional body fat with more cardio. But in general — especially among women — most people put too much emphasis on long duration cardio. Yes, it’s good for your heart, helps you burn calories and makes you feel good, but it needs to be kept in check. Besides, I would rather take a beating then get on the treadmill..Not unless Im upset then I love it! lol..It helps...

One approach that many people find effective is to limit their cardio to no more than 30 minutes, but increase the intensity by either adding resistance, speed, or in the case of a treadmill — incline — to work out harder, but for shorter periods of time.

This is known as High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and there is some research that indicates it may be more effective at burning fat — especially abdominal fat — while preserving lean tissue than solid-state long duration or distance cardio. Interval training has you literally alternating between high-intensity bursts of 1-2 minutes, followed by a recovery period of 2-3 minutes, and then another burst of higher intensity. You can accomplish a similar effect during running by increasing your speed to a sprint for a short period, or running 100 yard dashes at a local track or field.

If you aren’t including 45-60 minutes of weight or resistance training at least three times a week in your workout schedule, it’s time to change that. To get “toned” you need muscle — and the only way you will add muscle is by weight training.
Building muscle mass and size requires constantly challenging your muscles with increasing levels of resistance — this is also known as “progression” in weight training jargon. This applies to both men and women.

Thoughts

2009-12-29T23:11:00.000-08:00

Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind. Look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true. Think only of the best, work only for the best,and expect only the best. Forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future. Give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others. Live in the faith that the whole world is on your side so long as you are true to the best that is in you!'
WHAT IS LOVE ?
Love is passion. Obsession. Someone you can't live without. Someone you fall head over heels for. Find someone you can love like crazy, and will love you the same way back. Listen to your heart. No sense in life without this. To make the journey without falling deeply in love, you haven't lived a life at all. You have to try, because if you haven't tried, then you haven't lived.
WHAT IS PASSION ?
Passion is a gift of the spirit combined with the totality of all the experiences we've lived through. It endows each of us with the power to live and communicate with unbridled enthusiasm. Passion is most evident when the mind, body and spirit work together to create, develop and articulate or make manifest our feelings, ideas and most sacred values. Passion enables us to overcome obstacles (both real and imagined) and to see the world as a place of infinite potential. The passionate spirit looks at every occurrence and discovers the golden kernels of what can be, what should be and what will be.

For the Women who know they are Amazing...!

2009-12-29T22:54:00.000-08:00

Women are like apples on trees. The best ones are at the top of the tree. Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead, they sometimes take the apples from the ground that aren't as good, but easy. The apples at the top think something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're amazing. They just have to wait for the right person to come along, the one who is brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree. Now for Men. Men are like a fine wine. They begin as grapes, and it's up to women to stomp the shit out of them until they turn into something acceptable to have dinner with. :)

Spring Cleaning Advice for 2010... Gid rid of it.....

2009-12-29T22:12:00.000-08:00

Spring Cleaning:

I recently read some GREAT advice .. about cleaning.

When preparing for a seasonal shift, most women rely on the old advice: If you haven't worn it in a year, toss it. Everything else gets to stay or gets repaired/altered. Absolutely essential if you live in a house where closet space is pitifully limited. 3 closets is just not enough for me...":)

The new spin on the classic rule is: If you haven't worn it in a year, toss it OR if you wouldn't buy it today, toss it. Even more brilliant. If it doesn't suit who you are today, your lifestyle and how you envision yourself, there is simply no use for it and it no longer deserves the space it occupies.

This was eye-opening for me - a girl who has a bizarre disorder resulting in the personification of personal goods. Yes, I ascribe feelings to my clothes, my accessories, even my shoes. I actually feel bad if they've been neglected for too long and even if I have no desire, I may reluctantly dust them off, throw them on and plan an entire outfit around them just so they can get some play. Sick and twisted - but anyone who knows me, knows I have a thing about not being wasteful. If I don't give things away, I am compelled to reuse them, complete them, update them - in essence, give meaning to their being.

But this spring, with the help of a new clause on an old rule, I finally let go of my guilt.

I purged.

And it felt sooooooooo good.

I was able to 'save' some pieces that could be reworked in modern ways and that I could still get excited about, but otherwise I let loose.

I stuffed countless donation bags with apparel, belts, jewelry, unopened cosmetics. I made several piles of shoeboxes taller than… me. I cleansed.

Once I got going, I couldn't stop…

Some things I got rid of this Spring: this was 2009... But still applies to 2010..:)

1. My Lovely clothing - I donated lots.... - It will really help someone who needs it more than I do.

2. My Safe Suit - I finally realized it in no way reflected my personality and keeping it, for that one day I may just need it, was absurd… because on no day in my life do I want to play it safe.

3. Sporty, Preppy Beach Bags - I realize that they are cute… for a girl who's actually preppy.

4. Undergarments in good condition that I just don't like - as with other things intimate, why shouldn't they have to meet my picky standards?

5. Errand Jeans - Because my good jeans deserve to come out and play even when the task is mundane or routine… and having a caste system for denim suddenly seemed unethical and self-defeating. Rather than demoting pairs over time as styles and trends evolve, I say ditch them. (Note: If you happen to LOVE the actual denim, you can also alter the pair - I did this to flare jeans that are now straight-leg.)

Some other things all women should consider tossing this Spring:

1. Things that are bad for you: bad body image, bad men, bad energy, bad habits (really now, still smoking in 2009??!)

2. Anyone who makes you feel bad about yourself, particularly if with intent.

3. The past.

4. Resistance to change.

5. Self-doubt.

I love my Friends....

2009-12-26T17:08:00.000-08:00

When your senses meet mine it can be quite a journey whether short or long. Its not about the time when building a base for a friendship or a relationship...it is about the insenity of the connection the respect and the loyalty.

I love human connection and good energy. I have great friends,and family, that I have connections with very few...... I may not have more than a handful... But the ones I do have we stay connected. And with all of them I have a bond..... I tend to get attached very easy..... So if you are my friend..... You have me for life.... Im loyal to you... And will be there for you in good times and bad..... Sounds like a marriage....LOL....O goodness... I Love yall dearly......

Mr. Wrong

2009-12-26T17:07:00.000-08:00

Okay so it saddens me to go home for a few reasons....My mother for one. Actually that is first and foremost.She suffers from living a life of disrespect. The way she lives.. And the heartache and abuse that I know she sufferd growing up.. That has made her the person she is today... So many people have disrespected her.. my father...even I. Of course as a child this is typical but I realized that she is going to let me treat her badly so I had to stop because I love her.....its sad that she made it so easy...it was like I was conditioned by her to treat her like shit..I fought that and am one of the very few lights in her life.
Why do I mention her in such a way? To conclude that she is part of why the general assumption when meeting me is that I am with some amazing hot guy is wrong...oh the contrary my friend. I hate to say it but when keeping it real, my mother is in me; the good the bad the strong the weak. But I am fighting it all the way...

I constantly gave love to others, ran around frantic with errands and moved 100 miles away from anyone I knew to prove my independence....I think the day I sincerely realize my potential and true beauty and worth I am going to piss my pants. It gets me so angry to know that I am my worst enemy. I will not allow a man worth my time who sees my beauty to get close. I was too busy dating all the fucked up people. All the Mr. Wrongs. Now I'm sorry if I fit the category of the girl that digs the asshole...I didn't mean to at all!!!! They were safe....kindof like a really naughty vacation.....entertaining, temporary, dangerous if continued and unrealistic to have expectations with.

I grew up with my mother and father raising there only child ( that's me) .My mother and father never attending cheerleading events, pagents, or school functions that I had won many awards. My dad and mom worked full-time.. My dad was the man of the house.. And what he said we did... He was into weight training and boxing... Some of my favorite memory's was when I was around five, I would sit for hours and watch my dad train and lift weights.. As I grew up I kept busy working out and working and dated one guy serious almost married him.. Then jumped into a marriage that I was not ready for. My childrens father... Great guy... We are still friends till this day... Just wasnt for me... Started training again and was a personal trainer for 6 years ....I wanted to fix how I looked on the outside hoping that there would be a correlation on how I felt on the inside and to defend myself in case I was ever put in a physically vulnerable position with a man or stranger. And also I wanted to be like dad....

I figured out my pattern years ago with some deep self reflection .I even thought I broke the pattern for the first time by choosing a friend who accepted me, who I deeply adored. I broke a 10 year record with him. Whoa hooo...no this is a big deal for me. I didnt think after my marriage, I would want to be in a long term relationship again, he hurt me and I was very unhappy.. So this was great ...best friend.... was thinking about marriage again.... and what happen ..burnt me, I forgave him b/c I never had forgiven someone for something so deep... If you could think of the most creative way to hurt someone this person did it....He didn't have to work much for what I granted him. I didn't think that would matter when in love....obviously this wasn't the situation.... I can honestly say I've never really thought that I could find the right person for me... I hear of people finding their soul-mate all the time... Where is mine... Was it one of the Mr. Wrongs... And I messed it up? Its wrong that I can't grasp the thought of true love. But it is so right that I am willing to dig up my fruedian flaws with no shame and figure this puzzle called human history out. I refuse to be bitter and run away disguised as this strong girl who is actually weak by building a cold wall and hurting others with my own broken heart. Screw that. I just thank the Lord I am learning this now and not going home with some stranger in my thirty's : ) to end up with a pint of Hagen Daz and Sex and the City in my face.

I can't run with my emotions anymore I need to slowly create my emotions with logic and true good people. I'm not looking for a husband... I choke at the word boyfriend, but I would surely love to trust the hand that polishes the diamond I am. I had an amazing friend witness the hurt I went through with the last man and she said with such sympathy, "Aw you poor thing. Your this diamond that everyone sees shining but you." And I another friend that said and this too shall pass!..Thanks Tracey..... Last but not least.... Was very important to me...Thank you Stewart for calling and saying get out of bed now! Meet me at the park .. You need fresh air and sun! He walked with me everyday, just to let me talk and to hear the same things over, and over, and over.. You Helped sooo much...And you have always been a great friend...

Damn right....when did I become my own worst enemy jeopardizing intimacy in my life? I am determined to accept love from the right people (including myself) for many many days of my life. I can't live another day being the main reason why I am not accompanying my mouth with a smile inside. I'm going to figure this out. When did finding love involve the pathagorian formula?
Maybe I can't figure this out on my own maybe I'll need a study partner who understands my learning disability.....whoever this spirit ends up being let me just give you a name right now...............Mr. Fucking Superman.
I think the day I have a white dress on (whoa nellie jumping the gun,lol I just may have grey streaks in my hair then, not far from that right now...) When I find Mr. Right then I can finally let go of Mr. Wrong..... : )

A little about me....

2009-12-26T17:06:00.000-08:00

I'm a little complicated yet extraordinarily simple. I am very deep. Probably my greatest quality, (Loyalty) sometimes is my biggest disappointment. My life is about happiness, honesty, love and beauty and giving to others. But most of all my children are my world. I enjoy going out, hanging with groovy people, talking .. about...whatever! I LOVE to work . Just quit my job with a local High School… So I don't have a job right now, Looking…. But I am trying to figure out when the best time is to start my boutique… I will carry top of the line clothing…Men and women… Funky jewelry.. Look for it very soon.....
Called Brooke Taylor's….. After my daughter Brooke….

But also make the time to laugh and just be chill.. . Whether im at home with my fam or hanging out with my friends….I love to wake board, swimming ,lay in the sun, hike, boat riding with my friends and some bud light... Sounds great everyday.....and anything outdoors.... Winter I SHOP!!!!! I don't really like the cold... Some winter day's I want to hibernate and curl up in bed with some coco and movies....LOL
Always consistent, always reliable, I prefer to avoid unnecessary drama and those who thrive on negativity. A big pet peeve….
I am a sophisticated LADY and a total dork (to those of you who know me). I do have a little rocker chik in me and maybe a little Country girl at times…. I believe in the power of energy- positive and negative. Marcus Garvey said "without struggle there is no progress". I certainly agree. Had many obstacles but nothing holds me back for long.
People matter. I am a loyal friend and prefer to see the best in others. I have the blessing of being compassionate and empathetic and believe that "true love" doesn't use, manipulate, blame or hurt. True love gives you ups and downs, but end of the day it says "I got your back". And I have yet to find this… And am ok if I don't… I have very good friends… But crave that true, honest, loving person, that truly loves me for WHO I AM…..
I am a strong, smart, powerful lady which can be daunting to those who try to control me. I love my freedom! All in all I am proud of who I am, comfortable in my own skin and love being me! Anyone who tries to change that will be surely disappointed

Wake Up...

2009-12-26T17:02:00.000-08:00

Today I went that extra mile and it shifted something inside of me.

I decided to go for a hike this morning (as I often do). Hiking -like other exercise- is a little slice of heaven for me after a time in my life when I may not have had the ability to enjoy it again. I go to reconnect with my body and thoughts, to clear the mental cobwebs from my mortal being and get just a little closer to God.
My spiritual battery charger . It keeps me sane.... Trying to make more time for it.....

I was suddenly inspired to take an extra leg of the journey. It was a path I hadn't been before. I had no idea how long it was or where it would take me and the funny thing is: I didn't care! I relinquished control and let inspiration lead me.

I am so glad I did!

What I learned was that this vessel of mine is better pushed full throttle than intermittently. I was reminded that my only limitations are ones my ego imposes upon me. I WOKE UP. I listened only to me (my gut) and no one else.

Now, every extra crest, extra mile, extra bead of sweat down my back is a gift I give to myself for being alive. It's addictive and far more inspiring than the negative inner dialog we often harbor from outer forces (like other people and their insecurities).

So I am sharing this with my friends to- hopefully- inspire all of you as well.
Treat yourself!
Because you can.
Never fear or inhibit growth if there is opportunity to learn about yourself.
Listen to your inner voice. YOUR voice.
Find who YOU are, independent from the opinions of everyone else.
Push yourself.
You will never know if you never try.

I am a being of light and love. I have come to realize that I am not immune to the negativity of others and choose to spread my light and love freely (even where it is not necessarily noticed or appreciated) because that's WHO I AM.

Maybe I am the minority, but I believe we work better as a team than apart . Now - more than ever- is the perfect time to help and support eachother. But to be a true spiritual warrior means being solid- emotionally and spiritually. Do your work. And enjoy it!

I hope this resonates in some of you. I wish everyone great health and happiness in your lives now and always.
Your friend ~ Michelle ~

Life & the Things I Miss

2009-12-26T16:28:00.000-08:00

I am returning home to Cookeville like I do every week or two… I have constantly complained about Nashville seeing all there is for a humble person to complain
about .I began to see the light beyond the smog. My stay here in my home town is quit comforting. Everywhere I look I see and feel memories as I drive by my old Jr. High, Roller Skating Rink, the 13 yr old hot spot, the short walk home from my cousins house to mine that I would run all the way home under the moon and stars and the thru the hundreds of lightning bugs (that I never see anymore). L Scared to death that something was going to jump out of the woods to get me… LOL.. I know they would have thrown me back out really quick… Or the summer days of going hiking to Salt lake and Burgess Falls and swinging of the rope into the water hole called Salt Lake… We went on great adventures.. That was so much fun… I am sure my cousin Charlotte remembers the cows… O my gosh that was a close one… But to see her climb this little branch of a tree that was 10 times smaller than her! LOL .I will never get that memory out of my mind… I remember everything so crisp like it was yesterday… Do you ever smell memories? I do..

Like the peppermint candy my grandfather smelled of mixed with raw tobacco. Or the body powder my granny wore that I miss so much…My favorite the Mimosa tree that was outside the bedroom window of my granny's house that has sweet pink , fuzzy blossoms, that smelled so good… I used to pull them and stick them in my hair…. I miss those times…

The old road Oak Lane at Burgess Falls called the Bloody eighth (don't know why) has changed alot.....Not the same as I remember it once was…It is now… A place for… People that care nothing about life and keeping there land clean… It makes me very sad…. My Hometown Cookeville is still about the same… Teenagers still Crusin Jefferson Ave. On Friday and Saturday night looking for that hot guy or girl that they can call there girlfriend or boyfriend… Still sitting at the old Wal-Mart and Stock barn chillin watching the cars go by…. . So beautiful so predictable....not just the individuals occupying this small overpopulated society but even more so thier lives.

There has to be more to tomorrow and as comfortable as I am in this town I do not want to become too comfortable. I stress excessively but realize that stress is a positive thing. Our bodies experience stress during exercise when we bring it to a level where it physically hasn't gone before. Maybe my constant urge to be somewhere new or to be at another level so much that intellectual, spiritual and all those other aspects of my stress are absolutely beautiful.

If I can view stress as something to appreciate than I can look beyond the crowds of makeup....in Nashville and Hendersonville ,lol, the little doggies, and the traffic and realize that living in Nashville isn't such a bad thing. I miss my Family and friends..And that little town called Cook Vegas or Cookie-ville. All though their not so far away.. I could be there in a hop and a skip…what I'm saying is I'm not ready to stop stressing or being part of the pollution .

I have unfinished business J