Celtics, Reality TV, ZUMBA, O MY!

Happy Monday Friends! Here to share my insight on things that matter most to me....Sports, Reality TV, Zumba and of course, an update on yours truly! 

First things first.... My Boys in Green.....

Celtics:

I can't say I'm surprised that my boys went out the way they did, but it didn't lessen the blow.  A very tough pill to digest for all us LOYAL Celtics fans.  We have concerns at this point.  Ray, KG, Pierce, our boys, our Glue, are getting up there to that age.  The minds of all Boston fans are wondering... Will they stay or will they go?  I have grown to absolutely LOVE these guys.  Their heart.. Their Emotion.... Their determination..... So hard to think about my boys gone.  No longer seeing #20 drain a 3, or KG beat on his chest.  It just doesn't seem right... And yet we were SO close!  But .... O Doc, and Danny, I have a few questions for you.

I really wish someone could explain to me why this trade happened, toward the end of the FREAKIN season.  We were on TOP... Rolling through the East.  We beat Miami 3 times, we were in it to WIN it.  Kendrick Perkins was back... And the chemistry was there.  After losing last year to the Lakers in the NBA Championship, so many wondered if we had Perkins, could we have pulled it off.  ABSOLUTELY.  Perkins was key.  He was our brother, teammate, and all the SUDDEN gone.  Why exactly is that?  We were the DOMINATE team in the NBA, the team to beat... Boston Fans loved Perkins, we all screamed with joy upon his return.  So... Why, again I ask?  Why remove such a critical piece to our team?  Knowing the emotion of our players... As soon as the trade occurred, our players hit the  bottom.  Rondo pulled away.  He lost his BEST FRIEND, and the others lost their teammate and also their brother.  I cannot seem to find one justified reason why this occurred.  Was it really necessary to throw everything out the window, suck all the air out of our players, and ripe the hearts of us, faithful fans???  HMMMM.... I didn't think so.


I welcome anyone to shed insight on this for me, because I'm devastated, and my boys lost... TO MIAMI! Like... REALLY?!!  Only time Miami beats us..... AFTER THE TRADE!!  Seems simple enough to me.  We got screwed by our Owner, President, and Coach, and that my friends... a TOUGH pill to swallow.


Reality T.V. Update:

Mob Wives:  I just started watching this show just a few weeks ago and all I can say is WOW.  This show is CRAZY!  But then again, what should I expect??  A reality show that goes around and follows Wives of Mobsters.  These gals are NUTS, especially Renee.  I find myself wanting to turn away, but for some reason, I just can't.  Very true when I say its just like a train wreck, and you can't look away, when you know you should.  New episode this evening on VH1.  I've already got the DVR ready to go, because (add it to the list) I'm hooked!


The Real Housewives of OC:  I've been a RHOOC fan from Day 1, as this was the original show.  I have watched season after season, and seen these ladies go from fake to even more fake.  Vicki is still just as crazy as ever, expecting her marriage to survive with her working 15 hours a day. I feel bad for Don. Tamra is going through some mid life crisis, and is acting like she is 21, dating Eddie, doing body shots, and basically soft core porn on this show, when she claims she doesn't want her kids to know about him.  GET OUTTA HERE!!  Alexis..... O my, SHE is a piece of work.  I cannot stand her or her husband Jim, who is the ruler, the King.  I mean look at this guy!!  Alexis come on, quit playing a part, we know your style, you married Jim because he's rich and funding your dress line.  All I can say, Good luck with that!!  Gretchen is hilarious.  She cracks me up with Slade and her mean humor.  She tends to say such rude things and then just has that evil laugh, like haha, I'm just playing... Why are you so fat Slade?!  Hahahaha.  Go get me coffee Slade.. Bahahaha.  Its like IS THIS GUY HE BOYFRIEND OR HER MAID?  Same situation here, another train wreck, yet I'm glued to the Bravo every Sunday at 10.  And tomorrow The Real Housewives of NJ starts up and I can't wait.  Looking forward to this one.  Very similar to Mobwives.  Add another show to the list!  ;)


American Idol:  I have watched this entire season, and haven't blogged about it yet.  I was a big Paul McDonald fan, and once he left, I vowed to not watch the show anymore.... Well you see how well that worked out.  I'm back..  And DISAPPOINTED again.  Although I've been a Haley fan all season, I feel James Durbin was ROBBED this week, when he was sent home. Haley doesn't have the voice.  She can't reach those notes, she can only strut her stuff across the stage.  Is this how she is getting millions of votes?  I don't get it, you're good, but not on the level of Scotty, Lauren, or James.  I'm interested to see how things pan out this week on Idol, when the final 3, head home.  If I were to predict what will happen, I say Haley goes home, and were left with the 2 most likable kids on the show.  Tune it Wed at 8 on Fox.

ZUMBA:




Normally Zumba is the very first thing I blog about, but this week it went on the back burner as our A/C went out.  I was able to ZUMBA on Monday, but that was it, and I have been so down. I have missed it so much, and cannot wait to get started again today.  I didn't want to go many days without ZUMBA for fear I wouldn't go back, but its true. I'm addicted and even with a week passing, I still can't wait  to get back to it.  I mean its Sunday, the one day I normally don't  work out and its all I can think about.  So this week I will push myself extra hard, add on some additional time, and I will get back into the groove and have plenty of workout pics when I update my blog later in the week.


Each of you doing ZUMBA, or any work out, I hope everyone is seeing results and continually pushing themselves harder each week.  Drink plenty of water, and keep motivating yourself.  Results are coming!! Doesn't happen overnight and also won't happen without dedication, so just KEEP going.  Have faith in yourself and know that YOU CAN DO anything you put your mind too. 


For those of you who haven't done ZUMBA, I encourage you to check it out.  If you enjoy dancing, or music, get it.  You can do it from the comfort of your own home, either on DVD or your own gaming system.  Its WORTH every penny, and you will LOVE it, I know.  I haven't talked to one person that isn't addicted!  So get up, and ZUMBA!


Update on Muah/Song for the Week:


This past week was extremely challenging, full of obstacles and troubles... BUT...I managed to make it.  After everything, I think back and know that LIFE isn't supposed to be easy, and that we all are dealt a tough deck at times. However we will always persevere, if we just weather the storm and know everything will be okay.

A/C is FINALLY fixed, now back to life. We can work out, we can cook, I can dry my hair, and even do laundry!!  No more sweaty nights, we can relax after 300 bucks!! LOL.  I tell ya what, if I was a younger guy, I'd be getting into HVAC. Seriously, money in the bank!  ;)


My song for this week and really every week, is Kirk Franklin's, I Smile (You can go to the bottom on my blog, and its on my playlist, if you want to listen) or CLICK HERE!!

Prayer for the Week Ahead:


Our Father in Heaven,

As we enter into this new week, I pray that you will 'hold up' those who need Your strength at this time.
Let them know that You are with them every step of the way shouldering their pain.

Surround them with Your eternal love and give them the reassurance that with You that there are brighter days ahead.

Place Your peace in their hearts and raise their spirits with the joy that You promise for all believers.

Bind us all together by Your Holy Spirit and help us to minister to each other's needs.

In Jesus name I pray,
Amen

Until next Time, One Love!

Jam of The Week- Looking for Love - Diddy- Dirty Money Ft. Usher

Devotional For 5/6/2011

Time is the most valuable commodity that we have in life. It’s more valuable than money. You can make more money, but you can’t make more time. When you woke up this morning, God gave you a present called “today.” And with that gift comes a responsibility. The Scripture tells us to redeem the time, to make the most of every opportunity. That simply means don’t let it go to waste. Don’t live this day unfocused, unhappy, negative or defeated. Make the most of every day. God has entrusted you with His life. He has breathed His very breath into you. He has put gifts and talents on the inside of you. You have seeds of greatness deposited in you. You’re a person of destiny, and you have an assignment and a purpose to fulfill!

I encourage you today to evaluate how you are spending your time. Refocus your life. Let go of any distractions. Shake off any self-pity, any discouragement, any disappointments of the past and run your race with purpose. Be careful how you live and redeem the time so that you can fulfill the destiny He has prepared for you.

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for the gift of today. I dedicate this day to You. I dedicate my mind, will and emotions to You. Use me this day for Your purposes and keep me on the path You have for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Blessings and Love,

BBN Stand UP!

A lil Bit of this.. & A lil Bit of that

I try to post a blog daily, whether it be something inspiring, or an item of the day, and I always try to blog once a week with a recap of what's been going on.  So..... since its been about a week, here's the latest!  :)

Zumba:

Going into my 5th WEEK!! I can't believe it.  Normally after a month at the gym, my motivation is GONE!!  Thank GAWD for Zumba.  I know I've said it before, but this is the absolute BEST workout ever.  Read a great article on it today.  They were talking about how it has become one of the biggest trends not only across the country, but also amongst several celebrities. Earlier this week, Jordan Sparks (LOVE HER)! put the pic above on Twitter.  I could not believe it. I have always loved her because she was full figured, but still looked amazing.  Just about 6 weeks ago I saw her on TV, and she still was carrying a few extra pounds, but non the less, looked great.  Well, can someone say DAMN?!!  Look at that pic.  She has ABS!!  I immediately wondered how much working out and training she had been doing and today found out, courtesy of this article, she is doing ZUMBA!!  It revealed in the article that while many claim to burn around 1000 calories, on average for every 45 minutes you do, you burn between 500-600.  I'm good with that.  I'm just amazed at the results I'm seeing on a daily basis. Its RIDICULOUS!  I don't dread the workout, I look forward to it actually.  And when its done, I feel A-MA-ZING!  Can't seem to get enough.  I see myself doing this for awhile, and if I keep up at this rate, with catching on so quickly, watch out now, I might just consider becoming a ZUMBA instructor.  Because its just that great. 

For those of you working out, or doing Zumba, keep going, keep pushing, don't give up.  I have done that a million times before, and finally I'm at a place where I can say, RESULTS will happen, as long as you put your mind and heart into it, and dedicate the time to get fitter and healthier.  Nothing better than being healthy, not to mention the FABULOUS cute clothes skinny/fit gals can rock.  I can't wait!! 

Zumba Classes are available all over Lexington, and if you aren't comfortable doing it in a classroom setting, than go and pick up the ZUMBA for the WII, or The Move, or if you don't have a gaming system, get the DVD. They have it at Walmart and Best Buy. Its 14.00 bucks.  So there are no excuses, if your looking for a fun, quick way to lose weight, get healthy, and actually see the results quickly.... then GET ZUMBA and GET BUSY!!  :)

Weekend Getaway:

This past weekend was AMAZING.  I actually this morning was reflecting on my drive to work about how wonderful it was to just get away from Lexington for the weekend. I get so caught up in the hussle and bustle of everyday life, that it takes me going to my Sister's in BFE, to realize how great it is to be out in the Country, with no drama, with no traffic, with no BULLSHIT.  My Bestie and I headed out Friday and hit the road. A good 2 hour drive, but so much fun.  We always have a blast wherever we go and manage to make it memorable.  We arrived in Germantown, KY later that evening and really enjoyed hanging out with my Sister and her Husband.  Caught the NFL draft, and at a great time, because I got to see UK's own Randall Cobb get drafted to the Green Bay Packers, my Fav NFC team.  So proud of him and wish him nothing but the best.  BBN!!  Also enjoyed seeing the twins nursery, looking at their already stocked closets, and just really took in the sites.  You can in the pics above, this place is so serene.  They are in the middle of no where, no one close. Just peace and quiet.  I really felt a sense of calmness, which is rare for me.  LOL. 

We woke up early Sat and headed to Westchester OH to the IKEA.  O-MA-GAWD, I so LOOOOOOVE that place.  We managed to just spend a couple of hours in there and I managed to do plenty of damage to the bank account, but well worth it.  We then headed up close to Columbus to the Outlet Mall. This place was bananas. They had every store you could image, and without a doubt, the best Outlet Mall I have been too (and believe you me, I have been to MANY).  We spent a good 5 hours here, shopping for the twins (My Sister is expecting anytime between late July and early Sept).  So exciting to get to shop for a boy and a girl. Finally a girl!  I bought them the most precious lil outfits and each a bibb that says "My Aunt Rocks"!  Hell yeah she does!  ;)  Worst damage of the day occured at the Gap Outlet but let me tell you, I got over 300 bucks worth of clothes for 120.  I was MECCA pumped. I mean loaded up, 3 pair of jeans, 1 pair of capris, yoga pants, 3 cardigans, and 2 tank tops.  I know am fully loaded for Spring/Summer and love what I got.  35 dollar cardigans and I paid 10.50.  Get the F outta here, it was RIDICULOUS!  I bought a few things a few sizes smaller, because I KNOW I'll get there.  Not doubting myself anymore!  After 9 hours of shopping, we headed back to Lexington. It was such a great lil trip.  The drive, the country, the quietness, the horses, the peace.  I really needed it and just being out there takes you away and allows you to actually THINK.  Best weekend in a long time.  Of course, after a 12 hour day, the Bestie and I are  champions, so we managed to head out on the town for a few drinks (we rocked it out)! Some things never change!  LOL. But believe me, we looked good going out with our new fits. 

Boston:

My Boys, o My Boys..... I don't even know how to begin.  This Playoff series against Miami is REALLY killing me. I know my boys are better, I know they are capable. For crying out loud, we beat Miami 3 of out 4 times in the regular season.  And you know what, the only time we lost was after the stupidest trade we have ever made.  I don't understand why when we were running in 1st, we would go and make a trade. My team is a team full of emotional players, who are best friends, brothers.  Trading Kendrick Perkins after he finally got healthy, and getting rid of Nate, our spark, killed our chemistry and from that point on, it was all downhill. We managed to drop several games, and fall into 3rd place, losing home court advantage and allowing Miami to creep into the #2 spot.  BIG mistake Danny Ainge. I love you, but what were you thinking?  We haven't been the same since and it kills me.  We were rolling, there was no stopping us, and now we are down 0-2 to the Heat (aka D.Wade and the Robot known as LeBron James).  Them having home court advantage is one big problem.  Paul Pierce was ejected, we have been getting screwed over on calls, and this is not me making up excuses, I call it like I see it, and have heard the commentators and even sports broadcasters saying the same thing.  We WON'T WIN IN MIAMI.  And if we can't stop James and Wade who are scoring around 65 combined, my boys in GREEN can pack it up.  I know this year isn't our year, and it worries me because my loves are gettin to that age, where you have to start wondering, is this it?  So sad that the trade occurred, and has completely ruined our chances of winning another Championship, which we are so deserving of and were capable of doing!  But no matter what, BOSTON CELTICS, I love you, and the only reason I'm so angry is because I'm hurt. I love my boys, and don't want to think about them being gone.  I'll continue to cheer, but guys, I think the Coach (sorry Doc, love you too) and President pretty much shut our chances down, and for me, that's a tough pill to swallow. 

Side Notes:

A few random items.

Tomorrow is Cinco De Mayo, a Holiday I celebrate just about EVERY year, however this year my old body can't take it. Last years festivities were enough for several years. However, if you plan on partying, drink some te-kill-ya for me, and be safe!! 

Still plan on blogging about the Royal Wedding, although it might be old news. But I must just say I adore Will and Kate and thought their wedding day was MAGICAL.  Truly an amazing moment, and I'm glad I got to watch it all.

Mothers Day:  This coming Sunday is Mother's Day, which is a VERY special day for me. My Mom is my all, my everything, and I can't wait to spend the day with her.  Be good to your Mom's, they won't always be here and they deserve it all.  Without them, no us!

Down to 5 on American Idol, and Haley, who is my fav is still hanging on.  I either want her or James Durbin to win, otherwise I probably won't be happy. Still not over Paul McDonald getting voted off. Someone sign this kid.  Too talented!

Tattoo Update:  Pretty sure within the next few weeks, I'll be freshly inked. I'm so excited and will take pics and share. 


Until Next Time.....

Linds

Daily Devotional 5/3/2011

Joel Osteen definitely has the best devotionals.  Always helps me to get my mind on track, and realize the beauty in each day!  When facing a challenge today, know that God is working in your favor and for the good in you.  And most importantly, When in Doubt, Just Pray. 

No matter what may be happening today, God has good things in store for your future! It may not be easy to see now, but God has already lined up a new beginning, new friendships and new opportunities for you.

Maybe you’ve experienced some setbacks, but don’t make the mistake of expecting the same for your future. Instead, accept God’s good plan for your life by declaring His truth. As believers, our attitude should be, “Even though the economy is down, I’m not worried. I know God is going before me, and He has promised He will make rivers in the desert.” Or, “The medical report may not look good, but I have another report that says God is restoring health unto me. I believe God has already released healing, health and victory in my future.” Or, you may have a child who is not on the right course. In the natural, it seems impossible. But our report should be, “I know God can do the impossible!”

Today, be encouraged and don’t give up on your tomorrows. Accept the good plan God has for you — a plan filled with hope, purpose, blessing and increase in every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for giving me hope and a future. Thank You for loving me. Thank You for choosing me. Thank You for delighting in me. I invite You to renew my heart and mind to the good plans You have for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

If interested in receiving daily devotionals from Joel, check it out!

Blessings to all!  

One Love-

Thoughts on this Historical Day

So as everyone is well aware at at this stage in the morning, last evening US Navy Seals conducted a combat mission on killing Osama Bin Liden and were successful.  Almost 10 years later, and the emotions for everyone here in the US are extremely bittersweet.  I myself am having a hard time trying to process everything. Thank God for justice being served, and for such an EVIL person to be gone.  I know how special this is to our Country, for those loved ones who lost family and friends on 9/11, and for everyone who has served in the Military to defend our freedom.  So very proud to be an American.  And let me just say one thing, and once again please know this is MY opinion. I have read several status updates and tweets of people congratulating George Bush.  People stop making this political, give respect, where respect is due.  Since April Obama had 5 separate meetings regarding these special operations and gave the okay on Friday for the Navy to proceed with the attack. If it were not for OUR Commander in Chief this would have never happened. Give the Man some credit.  What a great night for people to hopefully lay this to rest, and get the closure so many needed.  10 years later, but America, we a STRONG, we are united, and as Mr. Obama stated last night, Justice has been served.  

Let's not forget how many people are angry over Bin Laden's death.  We are in no way in the clear, so I have mixed emotions. I'm proud, happy, relieved, yet sad, and frightened by what will happen next.  But regardless last night will be another Historical night we will NEVER forgot.  I think its crazy, that 10 years ago, when 9/11 happened, we were all glued to our tvs and newpapers, and last night, most people found out VIA internet, whether it be Twitter, Facebook, or just websites.  Crazy how far we have come. I actually would not have known, had I not been on Twitter, and I will always remember last night.  What a happy time for the US.  I can say I'm very proud to be an American, got very emotional seeing the sights at Ground Zero and the White House, and will continue to pray for our safety in the coming months.  Obama, Thank you for doing what you do, and for making a great decision.  You did it, you did a job George W. Bush couldn't complete, and I'm proud of my President. Kudos to you.  

So let's get closure from this, and move on as a strong Country, united together.  let's bring our Troops home.  Let the War end, let us live in Peace.  

As always, One Love to all and Blessings.