Why do people insist on smoking right next to me?! Ugh, what ever happened to people asking if you mind if they smoke? I could really care less if people smoke, just don't do it next to me, please. There's nothing about Cigarettes, Pipes, or Cigars that smell good. It stinks! I was walking around today and three people sparked a smoke. The smoke went right into my face. I turned to them and mean mugged the hell out of them. HA! Second hand smoke kills, man. There needs to be some sort of law to prevent people from being able to smoke in the presence of non-smokers. I'm just saying!
I just read this story and it's truly devastating. A Veterans hospital in Missouri may have exposed more than 1800 vets to the HIV virus and various other life threatening diseases. How did something like this happen? So sad! The hospital is taking measures to get former patients tested. Read the story below.
I had never heard of getting a shot in the G-Spot, and I thought that it was a joke when someone told me about it. The G Spot Shot is supposed to help improve the vaginal sensation in sexually active women.
The G-Shot® is a painless office procedure performed in your doctor’s office under local anesthesia. The actual injection usually takes less than 8 seconds and the total office visit time is usually less than 30 minutes. A specially designed speculum is used to assist in the deliver a specified amount of high molecular weight hyaluronan directly into the G-Spot after local anesthesia. The G-Shot® augments (enlarges) the G-Spot. This results in a G-Spot about the size of a quarter in width, and one fourth of an inch in height (meaning the projection into the vagina). Note that results do vary.
I heard that this painless procedure last anywhere from 4 to 12 months for about $1200. Also, it looks like there are doctors located all over that perform the painless, hormone-free procedure. Anyone curious enough to try this? I must admit that if I had the money, I would try it. Check out the link.
Today I watched Joy Behar's show which shares the same title as her name. I was really ticked off with her rude and ridiculous comments. Her segment had a panel of individuals talking about dieting methods. First off, none of her panelist were Doctors. She started by criticizing celebrities regarding their dieting choice. She talked about Jessica Simpson, Beyonce, and several others. Oh, and she mentioned Jennifer Hudson for choosing a popular weight loss endorser. If I'm not mistaken, didn't Joy once endorse Weight Watchers? Or maybe it was Jenny Craig, either way, how can she judge?
She started off by saying, "I want to talk about these alleged food allergies.
Joy decided to make a statement that, "some people are tricking themselves to make themselves think they have food allergies to lose weight." She went on to say that all of a sudden everyone has Celiac Disease, etc. First off, you can't fake a food allergy. When you go to the Doctor about food allergies they test you through blood or a skin test.
Her comments were insulting, unmerited, and ridiculous. She really shouldn't make comments like that without having research behind her comments.
I have suffered from food allergies for years, and it has NOTHING to do with losing weight. People with food allergies suffer on a daily basis. She's really starting to rub me the wrong way with her comments.
I wonder how her co-host of The View Elizabeth Hasselbeck feels, since she's a longtime suffer of Celiac. So, is Larry King still retiring?!?! I think there needs to be more shows like this on HLN and CNN. No time for Joy Behar all day long!
Yes, you read it correctly, I'm breaking my veginity. What's a veginity you ask? Well, it's me giving up being a vegetarian. I'm not going to say that this is a permanent situation because I'll probably flop again next month, who know's. What I've learned
I've learned so much about myself during this four month process of eating NO meat. I have learned that I don't have to eat meat everyday. I have also learned so many wonderful ways of eating, cooking, and loving my body more. Who knew that vegetables could be so wonderful! The reason that I am deciding to eat meat is simply because I miss it. I could probably go longer without meat, but I miss a juicy turkey burger, no lie. I still won't eat beef, though. I haven't had it in seven years or so, and I never look back. I figure that i'll continue the healthy lifestyle that I have learned while being a veg. I will continue to juice every once in a while, I will continue to have meatless Mondays, and I will continue to eat more vegetables, and limit the amount of dairy I eat. Also, I will continue to substitute things such as: mayo, milk, etc. Tonight, I'm going to eat some yummy asparagus and possibly baked chicken (hormone free). The benefits of being a Veg I seriously have the clearest skin because of my improved diet. I have the best bowl movements (yep, it's true), and I lost five pounds during my process. I'm actually the size that I'm supposed to be 124 about 5'4, however, I'm not going to lie I enjoy being a little bit thicker. So, that's my other reason for going back to meat. I don't eat a lot of sweats, so I can't gain weight that way. lol.
Are you a veg, or have you thought about it? I want to hear.
Don't you just hate when you're unable to fall asleep? For the past three days I've been up. I think part of it is due to the fact that I take naps in the afternoon. How can I not take a nap? lol. The best thing since Peach Cobbler. Another problem is the fact that sometimes I have a tendency to think I'm freaking Superwoman and so I strained my back. Aww, so much pain. I've tried heat, massager... I probably need a deep pressure massage.
I figure since I am a complete insomniac, I can finish some writing, or write on my blog. Btw, I've been so behind on my blog entries. It's that thing called, Life but I'll get better at blogging more often.
So now, I'm watching this infomercial on a facial treatment system called, Nu Brilliance. Has anyone heard of it? The last thing that I need is to watch this infomercial because I'll start believing that it works and want to purchase it. I am a beauty supply whore. lol. I've never met anyone with more beauty supplies than me. Hell, who needs Longs. The shit is like $300, though. I guess I won't be writing any checks to Nu Brilliance anytime soon 'cause it would definitely bounce. "DENIED!" Ok, now I'm rambling a bunch on non-sense.
Goodnight.
You may remember, I recently gave up meat... well, all except fish. I've definitely noticed several benefits to being a vegetarian, but I'm seriously running out of dinner ideas. Usually, I am adventurous and go all out but tonight was a different story. I made asparagus, brown rice w basil, and broccoli. Doesn't it sound boring? A part of me wants to break down and go back to eating chicken, turkey... oh, and my favorite lamb. I use to be obsessed with lamb. So, all you vegetarians out there--I'm trying to stay strong but I need help. What are some good recipes?
I always hear that Asparagus makes peoples pee smell like rotten eggs, but I swear I've never experienced this. Several people have told me that they avoid eating it all together because of the funky smell. I guess I should consider myself lucky that I don't have this problem, because I LOVE Asparagus.
According to MSNBC online,
Asparagus contains a sulfur compound called mercaptan. The same compound is found in onions, garlic, rotten eggs, and in the secretions of Skunks (now, that's some stank shit, wowzers!). The report also stated that, not all people experience the foul odor but that close to half do.
Found this funny comic strip online and couldn't resist posting.
[Comic Strip Image via waxturds.com]
I am completely obsessed with Aveda's acne skin care line, Outer Peace. For several years I have suffered from skin irritation and occasional break outs. This skin care line has definitely changed my life. In NO way is Aveda paying me for saying this... I just love blogging and why not blog about the things I love, right? I don't use the entire system, because my problem isn't severe, but I use the Foaming Cleanser and Acne Relief Lotion. The acne system is a bit on the pricey side, but works wonders and leaves skin clearer, brighter, and irritation free. The other bonus is that, there aren't any harsh chemicals. Don't you hate when you wash your face and you can smell the Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid? Yuck!
Out of all the skin care systems that I've used so far this is a winner! Have you used Aveda's products before, if so, what's your favorite?
Today, I saw this woman smoking a cigarette and she appeared to be at least six months pregnant. I seriously wanted to run up to her and snatch the cig out of her mouth. I watched her in disbelief as she continued to drag on the cigarette--she didn't even let up for air. Minutes later she put out the cigarette, and sat down next to me. I know she noticed the judgmental look on my face. I try not to judge but this time I couldn't hold back. The messed up thing is that this wasn't the first time I witnessed a pregnant woman smoking a cigarette.
Did she realize that the cigarette directly affects her unborn child? I guess she didn't care much. Such a pain in the ass. I wish I would have asked her reasons for smoking and purposely harming her child. Why not just use protection? I really don't see the point of bringing a child into this world and being so careless. I think I want to research this topic in more detail and this time find a pregnant woman who is willing to let me interview her. Interesting topic.
Today I went to the dentist for my annual cleaning, and I was reminded of why I HATE going. I sat in the chair--moving, kicking, making odd noises... a mess! The dentist kept saying to me, "raise your hand if you need a break." Although, it was an uncomfortable experience, to say the least--I refused to raise my damn hand. I just wanted it to be over! The time just couldn't go by any faster. It felt like I was in the chair for an hour, but truthfully it was only 20 minutes. What in the hell did our ancestors do to clean their teeth? Did they use bamboo sticks or some funky shit? haha. Just wondering! I guess after all is said and done, I have to deal with it. I must say, my teeth feel cleaner and fresher. Oh yeah babbbby!
I'm trying to figure out which I hate more, teeth cleaning or pap smear. Both occur annually, both are invasive procedures, in both cases you're opening wide literally, and in both situations you can get a cavity. HAHAHA!
I feel like in both situations I'm uncomfortable, exposed, and violated. However, by a small margin, I must admit I hate pap smears more. Do you ever notice that for both a pap smear and teeth cleaning the doctor tries to entertain you? The dentist did do a great job of making me laugh, though. I guess it's a little more difficult for the gyno to be funny when your legs are spread open. Ha, talk about awkward.
Do you have an interesting story about the Gyno or Dentist?
I'm sure when Gabourey Sidibe made her way into Hollywood she probably never expected for her weight to become such headline news. Everyone from Howard Stern to Nene from Real Housewives of Atlanta has an opinion. Howard Stern made a point that, because of her size she will not obtain many movie roles.
Here's my take on this situation:
Gabourey is an overweight young lady, we can all see that. Unfortunately, this society is obsessed with beauty and appearance. Do I agree with Howard Stern? I absolutely do! I'm almost sick of individuals saying that she's a beautiful young lady and looks great, because it's a lie. Yes, I think that she has a pretty face and beautiful spirit about her, but she's obese! Why sugarcoat the facts? Obesity is a silent topic in America, and it shouldn't be. If someone is too thin, we talk about it, but if someone is too fat we walk on egg shells--afraid to speak the truth. Afraid to hurt someone's feelings.
When I look at her and the scrutiny behind her weight, I'm reminded of when Star Jones first made her mark in Hollywood. Star wasn't an actress, but she was a talk show host and many people were uncomfortable with her obesity. Why? because once again, people want to admire a certain image. All people want to look at beauty, and not just Hollywood actors, media, or beautiful people. I'm even guilty of it. I once took a personality test in my Psychology class and it was concluded that I love beauty... actually, it said that I am obsessed with beauty and have to be around beautiful things and people to be happy. Was I surprised? Hell no! because, it's the truth. But, I'm not afraid to admit it! Neither was Howard Stern, as cruel as he can be.
For all we know, Gabourey could be losing weight, but until people begin to see a noticeable difference, she will be "the big girl from Precious." Yes, I know that's harsh, and trust me, I don't necessarily agree. I think she's a talented actress. Also, I think that she should be able to handle her weight issues in the privacy of her own home with close family and friends, but that's just not how the world works. I definitely think that she'll get offered movie roles, but lets be honest, how many roles are written for overweight women in Hollywood? Not many. Especially, if she is trying to become a full-time actress. Ok, lets take her weight out of the factor for a bit... Besides her weight, she has another strike against her, and that is the fact that she's a black woman. It has been widely discussed that unless you're Will Smith or Halle Berry, there aren't many roles for you. And, it took Will and Halle years to get such notoriety, btw. Maybe Gabourey will change Hollywood, who knows. We may all be wrong.
Another thing,
I've heard several people in the media compare her to Hattie McDaniel, Oprah, and Kathy Bates, in regards to weight. It's just not the same. And can I say, it's the silliest comparison ever. Are people really this off?
First off, when Hattie McDaniel started acting it was 1932. She began acting during a time when many black people were still considered second class citizens to white people. Also, Hollywood did not focus as much on weight than. Another thing, Hattie McDaniel often played a maid in movies and was often typecast. She was a woman who endured several unfortunate circumstances simply because of her color.
The comparison to Oprah...
This is another dumb comparison. Oprah began her career in broadcast, and I'm sure she encountered discrimination being a minority in the world of broadcast. When she began acting in 1982, as Sofia in The Color Purple, she had already established herself as a talk show host. Although, Oprah occasionally acts, she is not a full time actress.
Kathy Bates...
Once again, she began her career in the 70s. Yes, people were concerned with weight, but it was not an issue like it is today. And I'm willing to bet that when she began her career she was smaller.
Bottom line...
People shouldn't be so concerned about another persons weight, but the fact is, people are. I definitely think that it's unfortunate that Jessica Simpson gets scrutinized for her weight though. Jessica Simpson is not fat by any standards. However, Gabourey is obese and we can all see that. Obesity is a serious issue in America, and I hope that instead of everyone throwing darts at her and worrying about her "Hollywood roles" no pun intended! People talk about the real issue, and that is that, obesity is an epidemic in our country and needs to be properly addressed. She isn't the only one in America that is obese, but when you decide to become an actor that is the price you have to pay. No, she didn't ask to be famous... only an actor, but we all know that actor and fame are usually synonymous.
I said that it would take me two weeks before I converted to vegetarianism; however, I have started the process a little earlier. No meat and No dairy. Goodness, so far so good, but I'm nervous for the upcoming months. I'm nervous because I have a couple trips planned. I think that will be the real tester. How will I do under pressure? Especially if alcohol is involved. When I drink I have the urge to eat chicken wings. Haha.
I'm not going to say that I won't slip up, because there is a chance that I will. What I can say is that I am loving the transformation with my body and skin, thus far. Having clearer skin is definitely my main motivation. Also, I have not had stomach pains (something I suffered because of food allergies). Today, I went to Wholefoods and went crazy trying to find a meat-free and soy-free brand that I could enjoy. Well, I found the perfect brand. The brand is called Quron. O my God. I swear to you, I could not tell that there was NO meat in it. I give the person who created this brand props. I heart the chick'n patties. I also made scalloped red potatoes with fresh basil and carrots. Have you tried this brand before? Simply, the best!
I feel like I've made this claim before. I am two weeks away before I become a vegetarian. Well, not a complete veg because I will still eat fish from time to time. I love sushi!
I gave up beef about 5 years ago, and I swear I felt so much better when I stopped eating it. Right now, I eat poultry and fish. Ugh, it's going to be so difficult to give up chicken. I love chicken and pasta!
Are there any good vegetarian recipes that can replace chicken? I'm also giving up dairy. I probably sound crazy. Everyone has their own reason for taking such extreme measures. Foe me, it's simply a lifestyle change.
On top of eating better, I'm going to exercise more. Also, I want to see if my skin improves. I notice that when I eat certain things my skin breaks out, so I want to see if this vegetarian diet will do me some good.
I'm going to keep a diary that details my journey. HAHA. I'll probably be a cranky chick! I'm going to commit to 30 days starting March 1st of no meat (except fish), and no dairy. If I see improvement, I'll keep this lifestyle, but if there's no change... well, "how you doin' chicken? lol
For the first time ever, I will be running in a race. Not just any race, The Great Aloha Run. I'm not a trained runner or anything, but I decided to do it all in the name of charity. I'm racing on February 15, 2010 to raise money for the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN). It's a great organization that I support. Having been diagnosed with food allergies a while ago, this charity is close to my heart. 100 percent of money raised will go directly to the organization. You can read more about my story and donate at www.firstgiving.com/salathahelton. I hope my story inspires you.
Right now, I'm watching this movie on Lifetime called The Pregnancy Pact. Although, the movie is fictional, it is inspired by true events. Wow, this movie is making me think a lot about the unrealistic expectations that parents, churches, and society place on teens. It's a sad day when teens can't have open communication with their parents and ask for condoms. Beyond asking for condoms, teens should be able to have open dialogue with their parents, because that's the real issue. Condoms and birth control definitely help, but without education and open discussions, it ain't going to help!
I also watched Bristol Palin on Oprah. I listened as she confirmed her statement that, she will not have sex until marriage. Really?!?! Oprah even gave her an opportunity to retract her statement. Like Oprah said, who's to say that you'll meet that person, and even get married. There are No guarantees. That's definitely one way to look at it. Don't get me wrong, abstinence is a great thing. I use to say that I was going to abstain until marriage, but it didn't happen.
The odds of an already sexually active teen abstaining until marriage is kinda slim, lets face it! But, that's just my opinion.
The problem is, some parents worry so much about telling teens to wait 'til marriage until they have sex, and it's simply unrealistic. When parents place these standards on teens, in my opinion, it isn't practical. Yes, I grew up in a religious household, and I completely understand why parents and churches tell children to wait until marriage. Sex can be risky, it comes with serious consequences, and there are also emotional factors of having sex too early (psychologically, it can be damaging), but the truth of the matter is that, children today are different than the children in the 1940s, 50s, or 60s. The time period that our parents grew up in is not the same. When our parents were younger, most of them married young. Also, the ones that weren't married and having sex had a different level of responsibility. This is not to make light of the sexually charged children in todays society, but there is a difference.
Hell, I work in education, and the things that I hear children talk about is far more advanced from when I was in school. This is only my opinion, so don't chew me out for expressing it. I don't understand why parents get bent out of shape when schools recommend distributing condoms at school.
Condoms aren't the problem
The problem lies with children being misinformed, fearful to talk openly to parents, and the glorification of sex in the media. With that said, I don't see these underlying issues changing anytime soon. There is nothing wrong with saying to teens, "I would like for you to wait until marriage, but realistically speaking, it may not happen and in case you don't wait, here are condoms, please be safe, and talk to me if you have any questions."
I remember attending school and unfortunately, Sex Education didn't offer much insight into sex. Bottom line, I learned nothing in school about sex. This is pretty sad considering the fact that I had sex education in elementary, middle school, and high school. When I was in school, society was still in denial about children having sex so maybe that's why there wasn't a better platform.
Don't get me wrong, my parents were open with me about sex. However, I had friends who were far more advanced and were having sex. I recall being in 7th grade and my classmate having to leave school because it was discovered that she was 5 months pregnant. At the time, I didn't understand. It wasn't until high school when I realized that most of the kids were having sex and some were rather promiscuous. It was the secret in the community that no one wanted others to know. Whenever I go back home to visit it's no surprise to me that those same girls who I attended high school with are 28 years old and have 12 year old children.
What's my point?
Sex will not go away, and will not go away. The fact of the matter is, it can't be swept under a rug. Instead of constantly telling teens to NOT have sex until marriage, they should be told to ask questions, ask questions, and ask more questions. In my opinion, children shouldn't be told NO if they need condoms, because it is more important for them to be educated and protected than uneducated and scared.
I've never taken the flu shot.
1. I don't see the point
2. I keep hearing too many stories of horrible side effects
I really don't understand why so many people rush to the doctor all for the sake of a "flu shot." When you take the shot does it guarantee that an individual won't catch the flu? Doubt it!
Well, until someone can convince me otherwise, I'm good! Here's a clip below of a cheerleader who had a promising future. 10 days after taking the flu shot she developed Dystonia Disease... watch below.
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month I just wanted to send out a a little note. Many antiperspirant deodorants and deodorants contain Aluminum. Aluminum is now being researched as one possible causes of Breast Cancer.
Here is a snippet I found from Cancer.gov regarding aluminum and the breast:
What do scientists know about the ingredients in antiperspirants and deodorants?
Aluminum-based compounds are used as the active ingredient in antiperspirants. These compounds form a temporary plug within the sweat duct that stops the flow of sweat to the skin's surface. Some research suggests that aluminum-based compounds, which are applied frequently and left on the skin near the breast, may be absorbed by the skin and cause estrogen-like (hormonal) effects (3). Because estrogen has the ability to promote the growth of breast cancer cells, some scientists have suggested that the aluminum-based compounds in antiperspirants may contribute to the development of breast cancer (3).
For many years, I have been misinformed regarding deodorant. I was told that you need a fragrance-based deodorant and an antiperspirant if you sweat often. Well, it's just not true. I found a deodorant that is fragrance free, aluminum free, paraben free (which has also been found in women with breast cancer), and hypoallergenic. I promise you that I have not had any odors, unnecessary sweat, or irritation since using this deodorant. It's called Crystal Deodorant and made with mineral salt. The deodorant can be purchased at Walmart or any health food store. You can read more about Crystal Deodorant at www.thecrystal.com.
Please pass this information on to any woman you know
People make such a big deal about sex. I know so many people that are having sex but are
1. not enjoying it
2. can't receive an orgasm
3. are trying to please a man
4. sleeping with different men weekly
it's so ridic because at that rate a woman will probably have slept with over 10 men, unsatisfied, and still HAVE NOT reached an orgasm. What's the big deal about sex? Sure, it feels great and in that passion both people feel closer and more connected, but in the words of Bill Cosby "Come on People."
Don't get me wrong, I am not telling people to not have sex... I'd never do that! Sex is great and feels great!
But, I want us 20 something or 30 something women to really start looking at the person or people that we're sleeping with... are they worth it??? I just feel that this is the negative part of being a single woman. It's difficult to find men to sleep with that don't or won't cause drama in our lives. Another issue, if we do find a man to sleep with he's probably married, has a chick or few on the side or he's completely selfish. Not too many to chose from.
{Side note} What's up with all the married men getting at single girls? Seriously, if I have one more married man (wearing his ring) approach me, I'm going to title my next book, "I may be fly, but I don't allow married men to feel on my behind."
Get a grip!
If you sleep with someone and you're single there's a crap load of baggage (if you're not in a serious relationship). Don't believe me??? If you're single think of the person you last slept with that wasn't your BF. Did he make you feel exceptional? (and not just after the act), did he call you on time? You get my drift.
Why aren't women taught at an early age about control over our own bodies??? I know I'm ranting but an event today made me think about this (details in future blog).
Breast Cancer awareness is something that is very important and dear to my heart. My Nana is a breast cancer survivor and I know many other people who have experienced this first hand in their families. I have been reading many reports on deodorant and how the aluminum that is included in deodorant is harmful. Well I have found a deodorant that is hypoallergenic, aluminum free, and fragrance free. I know what you're thinking... "no fragrance?" But, trust! I have been using it for three weeks now and the results are great. The deodorant is called Crystal. It's made with mineral salt... Honestly, I have never felt better. Using this deodorant has been life changing. Even perspiration isn't as bad. I have posted the link to the deodorant sight below.
What's really the big deal about douching? I swear, every doctor that I ask this question to always gives me some generic answer about how it throws off a woman's PH balance. Seemingly, everything throws off the damn PH balance. I can understand how it's not healthy to do it every day or weekly for that matter, but what about monthly??? What harm can there be in douching monthly or bi-monthly??? Seriously!!! I have to admit that, I am one of those hard headed people that never seem to listen. Sorry DOC!
I douche at least every three months. I haven't noticed any PH balance issues. I even went so far as to research the ingredients on the back of the bottle. All it says is H20 (water) and vinegar... what's the harm??? The funny thing is, there's always a male doctor telling a woman what she should and shouldn't do with her body. It is a little ridic... don't you think? Women don't go around telling men about their anatomy. Another phrase that I keep hearing is that, "the vagina is like a self cleaning oven." Really??? I believe this to a certain extent, but on the other hand---even an oven needs oven cleaner at times.
There are definitely certain foods that I love. One of my addictions without a doubt is ranch dressing. I used to be so obsessed that I got most of my friends addicted to it. I put ranch on everything... no, I'm really serious. Fries, chicken, spaghetti, pizza, there is no limit to my crazy addiction. The only problem with eating ranch so much besides the fact that it's high in calories is that, it contains MSG and a dairy. Well, these are two things that bother my bowels, MSG and milk products. I started visiting health food stores to find replacements for all of my guilty pleasures and I found the Peerrrrfect solution to my ranch obsession. It's made by Organic Ville and it gets better. Non dairy, organic dressing and gluten free. Say what!!! No more bloating and no more headaches. Love it! do you have a guilty pleasure...and I'm talking about food. LOL. :)
For the past few weeks I have been having persistent headaches that last for about an hour, go away, and return. For the life of me I couldn't figure out why I was getting these headaches. I don't eat spicy foods so I ruled that out, I haven't had a migraine in years, so I ruled that out, and nothing in my daily lifestyle has changed.
One thing was consistent.
I work crazy hours and instead of cooking dinner when I get off of work, I have found myself conveniently running to the sandwich place or Greek restaurant up the street. Every time I eat from the restaurants I get a splitting headache... I didn't put two and two together until now.
I finally had an Ah ha moment! I have been a victim of too much MSG. Once I realized this I started paying more attention to the restaurant signs... I was right! I didn't see any sign saying that MSG wasn't used and generally restaurants display a sign to ease the minds of customers. MSG is so addictive, because the "food enhancer" is filled with delicious flavors that makes the brain believe it needs more.
I haven't done extensive research on MSG, but I will. My symptoms have been: severe headaches, nausea, dizziness, etc. so many more, but too many to list. Has anyone else experienced this???? I want to hear from you.
