like big sis...

if you know a little sister (or have ever been one), you know that the younger sister never lets the older sister take in all the fun.  from the moment we're born, the sibling rivalry is on, particularly with two girls.  yeah, you have your "that's-my-sister-can't-nobody-come-between-us!-me-and-you-is-half-a-heart" moments, but your sibling is the first true competitor you come into the world with - fighting over who uses the bathroom first, who has to wash dishes that night, who wore who's shirt (and tried to act like they didn't!).  in the spirit of competition, we believe from an early age that whatever my big sis can do, i can do too.  what's mine is mine (cuz you're the baby of the family) and what's her's is mine (hand-me-down's, etc.).  we [younger sisters] don't believe in the older sister having something that we don't  have or letting the older sibling bask in all of the limelight, if nothing more than out of fear of being left out or left behind.  yes, NYE, this may be a surprise to you, but everything from me reading "big girl" books and dancing at the Rink was a reflection of me making my equality known.  unfortunately, this attitude was also reflected in my eating habits as a child.  though my sister is 4 years older than me, I was practically the same size (if not bigger) as my sister from the time I was a pre-teen.  we ate most of the same foods (through high school, anyway) and I never really questioned whether i should or not.....now my sister has embarked on her own weight loss journey.  and just as i followed her footsteps in the past, im going to follow her footsteps now and take control of my weight.  i CANNOT continue to allow this phd program to slowly take my health away.  i have approx 4 months before my birthday, and the best gift i could give to myself is the gift of longevity and good health.  and it doesnt start tomorrow.  it starts NOW in this very moment. im not going to pretend that i plan to do everything perfectly and in order (if i could, i'd already be where i want to be), but looking at my family members battle with different obesity-related problems lets me know that i need to make changes ASAP!  and to top it off, i can't let my sister look cute by herself :) she needs some company in that spotlight :)

Spring break 2012

My bday trip to Las Vegas

Not bad for a birthday gift! Happy birthday to me :)

Old School House Party - Chicago, IL

Common is back at it again!

Common - Ghetto Dreams feat NAS by Nasir Jones

puerto vallarta june 4-9

night out with the girls

mini HS reunion

day 5

I promise to gain wealth and financial stability by making smart investments, budgeting, and paying off student debt over the next 12 months. I also promise to lose 80 lbs in the next 12 months by exercising regularly and maintaining healthy eating habits…

why is it so difficult to make this promise to the one person i feel will be impacted by this goal the most?

day 4

my major push goal is financial, but my secondary goal is health-related. my major goal feels a little out of reach right now, but im trying to be optimistic…the point of the challenge is to help get me there, right

i love my hair! video :)

nuff said!

CJ 30 day PUSH challenge: day 3

day 3 mission accomplished...not sure how all my goals linked together, but i think my push goal will be gaining wealth through smart investments...this will give me the leverage to manifest other set goals...

CJ 30 day PUSH challenge: day 2

Top three priorities: 1) fulfilling life 2) family/loved ones 3) health My number one priority is to lead a fulfilling life by being loving and supportive toward my family and working hard on my degree program to impact the lives of African Americans every where, and creating time to honor my health and sanity through laughter, proper diet/exercise, and relaxation.

CJ 30 day PUSH challenge: day 1

starting today...sharing thoughts about my values....i value human life. i believe that health is a right for EVERYONE regardless of financial status, geographic location, race/ethnicity, or creed. i want to be known for saving lives, both in the intensive care unit and before my patients get there. i want to lead research and provide direct care to help people prevent and manage chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, etc. but to help others, i must first help myself. thus, i welcome this challenge with open arms

i love my hair!

loose curls, about 4 weeks after 1st curled with rods oh my gosh! i'm finally becoming someone who other locked folks envy! i never imagined being the one that others look at and say, "wow, i love your hair! wish mine was like yours!" truly, i'm honored :o) and am thoroughly enjoying the attention i'm getting from straight, natural, and locked heads alike!

fresh spring curls!