Mid-Summer Crisis

As I get ready for my once-a-year vacation, it dawned on me... it's time to start a new diet! I know, just the terminology seems silly. Having grown up in a household that harped upon eating healthy, lots of exercise and the right cut outfit, you'd think I'd learned my lesson. But honestly, after high school and no more competitive cheerleading (allowing for maximum caloric burn), it seems that age and a busy schedule are all working against me. So, as I pack and determine what I'll wear in the sunny glow of a beach... it has finally dawned on me that I need to take this part of life a bit more seriously.

Of late, BF has really been working hard to try being a vegetarian. With the passing of his grandmother and the revelation of potential genetic heart problems, he's really trying to be healthier. His parents have been doing this for a few months now, and really like how it's effected their lives. There's even a vegan/vegetarian restaurant that BF is really into (and I'll admit, they do make a mean faux chicken taco), the Chicago Diner.BF has even gone so far as to supply veggie burgers in my freezer when he comes to grill out with me.

While I don't want to be without my occasional steak, and definitely not without at least chicken/fish, it does seem like a good direction. I and definitely pro-more vegetables in one's diet. However, I also feel that major step needs to be in portion control. I had mentioned in a previous entry that I had tried out this new restaurant with my friend. S.P. that had all items under 470 calories and stressed fresh vegetables. This place seems to have the right idea, albeit limiting total sodium intake as well. 

I think I'm going to try this though (AFTER MY VACA, cuz god knows booze is not calorie-free).

What do you think? How do you maintain a work/health balance (I feel like working long hours does nothing to motivate me to be healthier)? Do you have any special dietary restrictions?

PS: Lauren Conrad even submits Slim Tips on her blog! If you have any fun recipes/work-outs, please let me know!

Weekend Recap - Here comes the sun

This past weekend I was determined to be productive, what with the weather supposed to be so crappy. Especially, with being out of town the previous weekend I was hoping for some much needed down time. Ended up going out for drinks with a co-worker after work on Friday which led to sleeping till 11am on Saturday (something I have done in ages!) I then proceeded to try to motivate myself to be productive, which wasn't helped by the Harry Potter marathon on ABC Family....

As I started to pack for my move in a month (SO STOKED!), the sun started to come out, and I started to get texts from friends in the city enjoying cocktails in the beautiful weather.... and I caved. I wrapped up what I was working on, and made my way into the city. 

It was BF's best friend's birthday, so we made plans to head out on the town. After one lame dive bar, we ended up at Uncle Fattys. I happened to really like this place, as it's more chill, there's always dancing, and typically a live band; not to mention the fabulous fishbowl cocktails!

After much fun was had, we made our way back to chill on the patio in the beautiful spring weather! Overall, great night!

Sunday, I woke BF early for a breakfast at Nookies :) and a walk around Lincoln park, where there was apparently some sort of grilling festival, as we found a giant Weber grill and the Wiener mobile. (Pictures below):

My weak 'attempt' to 'steal' the weinermobile

After walking around a bit we went back to relax. BF's parents came in for the afternoon and wanted to see the new vegetarian documentary "Fork over Knife". After which we went to the Chicago Diner which offers vegetarian and vegan options. It was an overall interesting experience.

I made my way back to the Burbs just in time to miss driving through the crazy weather we got here in the midwest. I would vote this weekend a success for my social calendar, but a quasi-fail for my wallet ;).

What'd you do this weekend? Are you getting revved up for all the summer festivals coming up soon?