Miss America 2010 Caressa Cameron on Childhood OBESITY ...

Congrats to Miss Virgina, Caressa Cameron for winning the crown of Miss America 2010. If not for her beauty, rendition of Bey's 'Listen' or that fabness of a yellow dress - I'm sure her candid reply in the interview portion regarding the obesity epidemic facing our youth ... won those judges:

Progresso Soups Review, Gift Pack Give-Away & NYC Makeover Contest!

A common theme in my "grocery store adventures" is soup, specifically Progresso. That's why I was totally game when asked to provide a review and make some exciting announcements!

VIDEO: Mo'Nique Wins Golden Globe for 'Precious' ...


After a compelling performance in Precious, Mo' was awarded 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role' ... during last night's 67th Annual Golden Globes. With brilliant role adaptation (come on, y'all know she's come a long way since Soul Plane and the The Parkers, lol) I felt it, immensely deserved. ~PC


Video Courtesy of @necolebitchie

Mme's Give-Away #6 Winners ...

Congrats to Tawana & Marliese - the 2 winners of the $100.00 NIKE Gift Card Give-Away! ~PC


1st Winner Entry #105 ~ Marliese J.

2nd Winner Entry #63 ~ Tawana R.

American Idol Fantasia Barrino ... WEIGHT LOSS + New Show


Tatted-up American Idol star (and my fav next to Daughtry) Fantasia Barrino has faced scrutiny over financial decisions, illiteracy rumors and even weight gain over the last few years. As she claims all began to fall apart, she's publicly ready to "rebuild her dynasty".

Via her VH1 reality show debut, 'Fantasia for Real' - she prepares for a new album, return to Broadway ... and getting fit! She has reportedly lost 20lbs, thus far. Do your thing 'Tasia! ~PC

Splendicity.com - Hot Mama Makeover Check out AI Fantasia
MTV.com - Fantasia Barrino's Going Back to School, Will Attend Grammy Awards
MissJia.com - Watch Episode 1 of Fantasia's New Reality Show (un-official release)

Grocery Trip FTW ... Snow Storm FML!!! ...

I recently learned what the e-cronyms entitled, meant. Now that I'm in the loop (possibly years later?), I felt it appropriate for this post, lol. Enjoy your weekend! ~PC

Delmonte Citrus Salad (Oranges, White & Pink Grapefruit) - $3.99
Kiwi & Strawberries - $3.23
Melon Salad (Honeydew & Water Melon, Cantaloupe) - $3.07
Berry Mix (Rasp, Blue, Black) - $3.84
Pineapples - $2.39
Artichoke - $1.88
Red Potatoes - 3.29
Red Pears - $1.53
Red & Green Globe Grapes - $2.66
Oikos Greek Yogurts - $1.00
Monterey Jack & Colby Cheese Snack Cubes - $2.49
Thomas English Muffins - $2.19
Mom's Best Natural Shredded Wheat - $2.29
Quaker Oatmeal - $2.49
Private Selection Organic Soy Milk - $2.29
Amy's Organic Pesto Basil &Tomato Pizza - $5.99
Chi-Chi's Whole Wheat Tortillas - $3.19
Classic Salad - $0.88
Carrots, Cauliflower, Broccoli - $5.06
Not Pictured:
Tiger Shrimp
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
Varied Lean Cuisine, SmartOnes Frozen Entrees
Eggs

... view from outside our bedroom window - we've been under a winter advisory for the past day ...

Mme's Links: The Taco Bell "DIET", V Magazine's SIZE Issue ...


1. 'Precious' star Gabby Sidibe highlighting "Big Love" and Dakota Fanning, "Little Lady" ... V Magazine sets out to diversely represent beautiful women of all statures, in it's February "Size Issue". [Source: The Savy Sista ]


2.  You may have seen the commercials and accompanied success story (I stress story, for singular purposes) of the "Drive-Thru Diet". Here's a realistic take on Taco Bell's insult to consumer intelligence ... [Source: The Black Girl's Guide to Weight Loss]

3. Actor Jason Alexander (better known as 'George' from Seinfeld) joins team Jenny Craig. [Source: New York Daily News] 


~PC

PHENTERMINE: "Fight or Flight" to Weight Loss ...


Phentermine … how does it work and better yet - is it worth it? Growing wide in diet consumer popularity, it’s "buy online without prescription/lose 10lbs a week" lure is looming. Added, being a common weight loss drug prescribed to clinically-obese patients by doctors.

You may recall (pun-intended) the deadly, Fen-Phen weight loss pill catastrophe years ago. After medical studies proved fatal heart and lung complications were derivative of the anorectic, Fenfluramine was banned by the FDA. Leaving it’s “less-threatening” accomplice Phentermine, on the market.

What is Phentermine?
Phentermine Hydrochloride ... or “Phen” is a stimulant drug, marketed as an appetite suppressant. It acts on the central nervous system/brain to release neurotransmitters called catecholamines. Catecholamines (dopamine, epinephrine, etc.) produce effects ... inducing a "fight or flight" adrenaline response within our bodies. Similar to street drugs, like ... "Speed".

Fight or Flight
... is a saying linked to the body being on heightened alert at most times. A biological response of animals/humans in stressful or fearful environments. Yes, they bottled and are trying to sell you fear and stress! :/ Hence the related symptoms:
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Dizziness
  • Sleeplessness/Insomnia
  • Nervousness and Irritability
  • Constipation
Think about it ... if your mind is situated in a manner to prepare for battle all day or handle heavy stress, desire for normal functions begin to weaken. Functions such as eating (cha-ching), paying attention and other physical necessities - like eliminating :/ Crazy example; should you be up against a bear in the woods, the last thing your body is going to focus on is food, taking a bathroom break, sleeping or maintaining adequate contemplation to finish your thesis. The drug's capabilities do lessen your mental will of nourishment (as boasted), but doesn't stop there ...

The Resistance and Addiction Balance
Symptoms and their intensity vary among users. Some report none but, the constant is "tolerance". The drug is technically intended for use, no longer than 12 weeks, with break periods in between. As users will form an immunity to the "beneficial" effects of the pill over time. Your previous appetite (prior to starting the medication) will return - even while taking the medication! In response, some require increased dosages or harsher substances. Phentermine is also proven to be addictive/habit-forming. When prescribed, there is a “weaning off” program, generally to reduce withdrawal complications ... (intervention, much?)

Success Rate and Re-Gain Reality
"Results not typical" well, long-term results are BARELY typical with this method. You can significantly eat less, and lose weight <- that's fact. But if you have not coupled better eating habits or an activity routine, the weight is destined to resurface. And even if you did follow the before-mentioned, re-gains are still highly likely.

Remember, your mind has been under this medicinal spell for so long, once it reverts back to your old appetite, it will recall what you put it through. With this, the urge to binge/overeat is going to naturally surge, as that big bear that was chasing you for 6 weeks might come back, so you'll need to store fat ... in preparation.

Where to Buy Phentermine
More often than not, people are taking advantage of the $70-$150 online offerings the pill has. No doctor supervision, warrants dangerous implications as unless you are in the medical profession - how will you know what (if at all) doses are suitable for you? See, the weight loss industry (hustle) as we know is a multi-billion dollar conglomerate. Do you really perceive some cheesy site (who probably runs an acai berry company too, lol) backed by fake doctors and testimonials to have your best interest at heart? (pun intended, once again) And do you really know what's in that pill, from that online overseas transaction? I'm juuuust saying ... you know the World doesn't like Americans right now ... lol

After 2 years of cycling 3 similar medications in my early 20's, I lost and gained, lost, gained and endangered myself in the process - to an extent that still troubles me. I do not suggest, condone, promote or believe in the “magical” powers of weight loss drugs. My theory, you can't sell effort, you can't capsulate a lifestyle and … you keep it off, how you lose it. ~PC

Sunday Re-Cap ... Are My Tears FROZEN?

Oh buddy, it felt like Ohio today, 7 degrees/defreeze! But we (RaShad in tow) were determined to hit our 4 miles. Mission: the "Winter Hike". Now the "Winter Hike" is nothing more than the woods trail I normally take, encompassed with snow and ice. But it was a challenge and pretty fun. When we got to the mid-marker, the wind started blowing profusely, followed by my involuntary tears (because gangstas like me don't cry on purpose). And, I promise - I felt one crystallize ... lol. Hope you all had a great weekend ... let's make it a great week! ~PC
View

"Mile Markers" since the stumps were covered in snow ... bootleg! lol

Half-Point/Turn Around!!! (or what? lol)

Random lady, she kept talking to us, and talking, and talking ... lol
B: Whole Wheat Tortilla, Scrambled Eggs w/ Broccoli, Asiago Cheese, Md. Orange

L: McDonald's Grilled Chicken Salad w/ Ranch Dressing

D: Rotisserie Chicken Breast, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans

S: 20 Mini Pretzels, Sm. Apple

Planned Eve. S: 2 Fruit Roll-Ups 'Simply Fruit'

Calories: 1,556
Water: 93oz
Fruit/Veg Svgs: 8.5
Exercise: 4 Miles Outdoors (Jog/Walk Interval - Time 57:09) ... last song playing on the MP3 ... "I Invented ..." (Remix) Trey Songz ft. Keri Hilson, Usher

Mme's GIVE-AWAY #6: (2) $100 NIKE® Giftcards ...

I'm excited about this one! I'm giving away (rendered through www.nike.com) two $100 digital gift cards for use at any Nike® retailer or website. The brand is self-explanatory, it's personal sport and fitness offerings ... unlimited.

For your chance at one, email: madamethejourney@gmail.com by Sunday, January 10th - 11:59pm

Rules: Participants will be assigned a # starting with 1, in the chronological order your email is received. Please include your first name, the item you are entering for to win, and if applicable; a link to your blog/site. Via www.random.org 's outcome, 2 winner's will be selected. Good luck! ~PC

CONTACT Info

Email: madamethejourney@gmail.com

ABOUT

Hi! I'm Paula ... a hip-hop loving professional on a journey to reach ultimate levels of personal health and fitness! In the midst of it all - living, learning, and divulging in some diet/fitness/health pop-culture ... on my way to GOAL!