Weight - To - Date

Two ladies exploring how the worlds of weight loss and dating are intertwined

[weight2date-blog]

L.et's O.pen V.arious E.motions

He turned me on. I'm talking about having to go to the bathroom to cool off and get myself together, mid first date. His broad shoulders, bald head, and big eyes? Even his smooth, chocolate skin and anyone that knows me understands my lust of caramel. We ended the date with a kiss, one that electrified my spine... Made me shiver throughout my body. His kisses gave me earthquakes.

After that kiss, our relationship was put on the fast-track. My time alone became FaceTime with him, my "me" became our "we", text messages from pals became video messages from lovers. The intensity of us shone as if we were the midday sun. But, there was always the thought that maybe this guy just wasn't for me.

Little things that he did grew more and more unappetizing. But, the feast that we shared in the bedroom served as blinders to his lackluster personality. Example? I planned a sexy night for us. Went to the local market, picked up fresh veggies, juicy cuts of meat, and exotic Basmati rice. In my overnight bag was a sexy outfit to cook in, and a sexier outfit for the dessert I had prepared for him. He had been looking forward to it all week. When I arrived his crib, his best friend was there. He greeted me with a smile saying, "Oh, I heard you're cooking tonight for M. and I'm starving as hell too!" My heart dropped. I  commenced making dinner, but the original plan was thwarted.

Everything really changed when I injured my foot, and he made every excuse to not come visit me. In my heart, I was finished. I held on to a prospect of a relationship that in my heart I knew would never work. I ended up taking the trip to PR on the same weekend of his birthday. We did get into an argument right before I left, but I felt the time away would help us smooth things out. When I returned back to NY, he give me the Slapchop. It was over and he wanted to be "friends". I opted out of the friendship, in the nick of time.

I was hurt, but after the pain came relief. I realized that no matter how many romantic things he did that I wasn't used to, I just didn't like him. He wasn't the yin to my yang, the bench to my batty.

I must thank him, though. I know I'm worth breakfast in bed and sexy dinners. I'm worth foot massages and kisses on my toes. I'm worth being told I'm beautiful, sexy, and being asked "why am I so lucky?" So thank you, M. But, don't let me see you... You'll get smacked silly.

[weight2date-blog]

Your Short-Term Goal is Showing ;)

Any weight loss mag, website, or expert will tell you that you need short-term goals before you hit your target. Achieving the small will make the finish line look all the more closer. Compare yourself to a track star in the 100m hurdle race; each leap being one less before the ultimate stretch. Even the ones that accidentally knock over a hurdle or two still push forth.

Weight-2-Date isn't just about weight loss, though. We both are still single women that want to change that status to "taken". So, we’re sharing our goals with you! We both have separate goals, tailored to our personal needs; and, we have goals for us as a conglomerate. Check them out, use them, or let them inspire you!

Tiffany's Short Term Goals 1. Approaching a guy first 2. Snacking smarter 3. Completing Insanity Workout (hardest thing I've ever tried but I won't let myself down nor do I want to let MY FANS down)

Nakiella's Short Term Goals 1. Fit into my H&M hot pink dress 2. Having 6 glasses of water per day 3. Having an open mind when it comes to dating guys I typically wouldn't date

FFD Short Term Goals 1. Drop 2 dress sizes 2. Have dates that are so good that we want to have a second/third date 3. Increase readership/followers/fans

We want to know your "gol!" Leave a comment and tell us all about it.

[weight2date-blog]

"Estamos en Puerto Rico, Mami"

*singing* We've been gone for a minute, now we're back with the Jump-off!

First of all, the Fabulously Fierce Duo would like to provide resounding apologies. I mean, we gave you guys a lil taste and then fell off drastically! Please forgive us. So, let us re-introduce ourselves by filling you in to some memorable experiences that we have gone through in the last few months, with posts everyday this week! From jetsetting, to lounges, to love, we've got it all.

*Bing* The "fasten seatbelt sign” has just lit up, so let us take you for a ride.

Puerto Rico

FFD has never gotten the opportunity to travel together because I (Nakiella) was Tiffany's assistant. Now that this is no longer the case, we booked the first flight to get the hell out of dodge; Puerto Rico. The flight and hotel was about $400 round trip, though the hotel does charge about $50 per day as a resort fee. We stayed at the Carib Hilton, located in San Juan. The lobby was vibrant with colors and shopping opportunities. Parrots squawked cheerfully, with turquoise, crimson, and lemon feathers that shouted "Estamos en el Carib, Mamis!" And then there was the view of the pools, palm trees, and lagoon. It really makes you want to throw on your bathing suit and dive right into bliss. The rooms were recently renovated and were gorgeous. Modern white linens laced the beds, and a gorgeous painting of vibrant purple and yellow flowers hung on the wall. There is a liquor store adjacent to the hotel, but we would recommend going to a pharmacy or supermarket for huge bottles for a fraction of the cost. Drink of choice? Bacardi Coconut and Jugo de Piña.

We would recommend visiting La Placita, which is a hot spot for locals.  There's live bands in dive bars, and is perfect for bar-hopping gurus like the FFD. You must have pastelles from the couple with the cart next to a great, cozy restaurant called Jose Enrique. They are juicy, buttery, and jam-packed with flavor. You also must try Jose Enrique's fish fritters, a fresh delicate treat, coupled with a kick from the chipotle aioli.

Old San Juan is gorgeous. Located right next to the water, this small town has an immense amount of charm. The streets are cobblestone, the stores are abundant, and the citizens are friendly. We had to check out Señor Frogs, where we indulged in frozen cocktails and loaded nachos. It's a staple in PR because of the funky decor and wonderfully priced happy hour. You'll know you're there when you see the green amphibian smiling, inviting you in. There are plenty of souvenir shops located throughout the town, where you can buy shot glasses, t-shirts, and trinkets for your loved ones.

For a mere $1, you can buy a round trip ferry ticket to Catano. Once there, hop in a cab that's $3 per person and the cab will take you to the Bacardi factory. You'll be given two tickets that can be redeemed for a Bacardi cocktail of your choice. The tour was not what we expected, as it was only three predetermined rooms where we stood as large groups while the tour guides gave us background on Bacardi. We would still say go, as it was a nice experience, nonetheless.

For those of you who want to work out during your vaycay, we would recommend a good walk or swim. PR has some luscious hills and it was sweat city while we walked, especially with the sun beaming upon us. Swimming is also good whether it is in the ocean or pool. It's a full body workout, just remember to drink plenty of water after both forms of exercise. Although you don't feel it, you do sweat while you swim.

[Click Here for a Taste]

We hope you enjoyed this PR recap, and visit us tomorrow for more of our Fabulously Fierce Adventures whilst we were away!

[weight2date-blog]

Cirque du Solame: Bad Girls Edition

It's no secret that "The Duo" likes to party. Maybe that was one of the things that drew us close together. We both love to get fabulous, put on some fierce make-up, and go to a lounge and have drinks and sway our hips to bumping beats and trembling treble tones. Also, the prospect of meeting a hottie or a homegirl to network with is thoroughly enticing. We love deals, so when Tiff got an email from DEG Productions about a Bad Girls Club hosted event at K Lounge (formerly known as Kamasutra Lounge) that was free for ladies all night, we knew it was a must. We're both fans of the hit Oxygen series, and we're pretty thrifty so it was an all-around win. When we arrived, we thought we had ended up at a Zarkana practice hall.

Located on the second level of the Indian restaurant Bombay Palace, K Lounge is gaudy. Shimmering gold and rich crimson were prevalent; seizure-inducing strobe lights vividly flashed its well-timed rainbow. It was as if we had travelled to Aladdin's kingdom, via the West Side Highway. The decor fit the establishment's name. There were even Persian men donned in royal blue and silver Versace silk shirts, winking and smiling from afar. Then came the Bad Girls and paparazzi, or were they?

As stated, FFD (Fabulously Fierce Duo) are avid viewers of the ratchet series. We know the cool bad girls as if they were our high school chums. So who the hell were these long-limbed losers at whom the paps and resident soccer mom (trust us, the blond chin-length blow out, Northface fleece jacket, and kangaroo-pouch Jordache jeans were a dead giveaway) fervently snapped their oversized cameras? And why were they taking pics of these same four dorks all night? Who the heck was the little guy in the bedazzled white suit, white fitted, and white shades?!? Why was there a slim chocolate chick in an all-black witch costume?!? And what the heck was one camera man doing taking pics of his sclong??? Better yet, why was an inebriated woman being offered for $100 or the highest bidder???? It was a circus! One thing we can say about our night at K Lounge? It was a pure sit-and-watch entertainment. You can find info for Kamasutra below, but The Duo would have much rather been in a whole new world.

K Lounge (Kamasutra Lounge)

30 West 52nd Street

New York

[phone]

[weight2date-blog]

Adding 6lbs to Lose 6lbs

The Fabulously Fierce Duo are no strangers to the gym. Together we have spent hundreds, maybe thousands throughout the years, on memberships upon memberships. It's easy to get roped in by the promise of shiny machines, discounted bottled water, fat booty-kicking boot camp classes, and huge scales to measure each ounce of fat (we DO get to take off five lbs for these overpriced gym clothes though, right?) Wait, wait, wait, this is not a gym-bashing post, just one suggesting alternatives. At least four days a week, we walk.

Nakiella gets up at 5:20 am, laces up her Reebok zigs, throws on a scarf if the morning air is too brisk, and heads out into the hilly borough of the Bronx, which neighbors her city. As added protection on those BX streets, she sometimes brings along Reese, her lab/pit bull mixed-breed bodyguard. On other days when the mutt proves to be more of a hindrance than a help, she adds 6lbs.By adding two 3-pound weights, an ordinary walk gets a bit of a kick in the chubby cheeks. 3-lbs may seem like peanuts, but when used during arm combos while speed walking up hilly streets, the sweat pours and the heart-rate quickens. And, if you live in an area that you think is a bit shady, a three pound weight would sure hurt if used solely for self-defense. (The Fabulously Fierce Duo does NOT condone violence, we do, however, believe that everyone has the right to protect themselves when caught in a harmful situation and no immediate help is present.)

Tiffany gets gets up around 5:15/5:30a, stretches and drinks a cold glass of water to wake up the body. Luckily for her she lives near Central Park, which is a beautiful escape within the city. She currently does a run/walk combination for about 20+ blocks, but her goal is to run from 106th to Columbus Circle (baby steps, baby steps).  For our Fabulously Fierce fans who do not live in NYC, that’s about a 50 block walk! Until then, she brings along her 6 lb weights to increase the intensity of her workout (they say the best workouts are when you are working on every muscle throughout your body). Another great feature of the park is that she can utilize the hilly terrain and steps to add diversity to her workout. It is key to push yourself to your max without overworking your body, but you also need to switch up workouts because you do not want your body getting into a set routine.

Below you will find a link about working your arms while exercising.  Also, 3lbs is only a suggestion; if you feel that you can do more, by all means go ahead. Don't overdo it and always consult your physician before beginning any exercise regimen. We obviously aren't professionals, so make sure to take proper caution.

We want to hear from you! Tell us about the fun you had when you stepped outside of the (sweat)box.

http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/fitness/cardio/walking-workout-tone-your-arms.html

[weight2date-blog]

Keston Karter - Caramel Eye Candy of the Week

[weight2date-blog]

Restaurant Review: Bartaco

Bartaco in Port Chester, NY

  This weekend, the Fabulously Fierce Duo reunited after a week of vacation. We knew we had to do something that we both would enjoy, so we gassed up Big Bird and set out for what promised to be a delight for the senses.

  Our culinary expedition brought us to Bartaco in Port Chester, NY. The name says it all; they are known for their bar and tacos. Located on the Port Chester Harbor, with views of neighboring Greenwich, CT, guests have a choice of sitting either inside on couches or traditional tables or venturing onto the harbor-side patio, which also housed comfy couches, columns of bright, burning flame heaters to produce warmth, and full, shady umbrellas to protect from the sun's rays. Since we went in the evening hours, the heaters were a perfect touch. There were also fresh, fluffy blankets available, if the chill was unbearable. Blue and white decor was prevalent, and servers were easily spotted, donned in blue and white plaid shirts. The colors were reminiscent of a sunny sky chased with fluffy, cumulus clouds, and trust us, the food and drinks weren't far from heavenly.

  Food was served family style in crisp white bowls and tin trays. We decided on three tacos each (2.50 for one taco and 7 for three) and three sides to share (same price combination as tacos). The tacos are soft, corn tortillas, your choice of protein, and chopped, sweet Spanish onions and cilantro. Wedges of fresh lime are served for the squeezing. Our choices of tacos included plump shrimp seasoned Thai style, grilled red snapper fillet, and our favorite, a juicy, pulled lamb that was simmered in tomato broth until fork tender. Our sides were buttery-soft red kidney beans that were stewed with chunks of salted pork, sweet plantains dusted with sea salt, and a charred cactus salad. It was our first time trying cactus and it tasted as if a green pepper and okra had a baby. There was a hint of sweet spice, with a slippery finish. Slivers of grilled, red onion added an earthy finish to the complex new taste.  Tacos and sides were heightened with the choice of three sauces—spicy habanero (scotch bonnet), mild tomatillo, or a medium blend of smoked chilies and the spicy and mild sauces; we suggest to try a bit of all three!  Our drinks were refreshing margaritas and mojitos. The mojito could have had more mint, but it was thirst-quenching nonetheless (mixed-drink prices ranges from about $8-$12). To wrap up an already orgasmic meal, we ordered cinnamon-sugar churros served with melted dark chocolate. The sweetness of the churros blended perfectly with the creamy, slightly bitter cocoa.

  The service was on point. Our server, Connor, was charming and helpful. He explained the ordering system and was reassuring when we made our choices. It is our belief that a restaurant with good food is nothing without great service, and Bartaco satisfies on all levels.

  We would recommend Bartaco as a great date location and spot for you and some friends. It is about a 35min drive from NYC with an awesome, scenic drive. It definitely gets the Fabulously Fierce stamp of approval.

Bartaco

1 Willett Avenue  Port Chester, NY 10573

[phone]

[weight2date-blog]

Georgia State of Mind

This weekend, with carry-on, oversized nude handbag, and make-up kit in tow, I, Nakiella, boarded an American Airlines flight to Georgia.  It’s not my first time going to the Peach State, but this time was different.  I was going as a single adult with my eyes on the prize, and a new diet plan embedded in my brain.  I knew that visiting my childhood bestie would mean “Food, Fun, and Laughter.”   Indulgence was an understatement.  I sampled sweet, maple syrup doused pancakes;  crunched the crispy skin of fried chicken breast, while moaning with delight as juices flowed from the tender, white meat; and sipped fruity cocktails of blue curacao and rum (the lime and cherry garnishes DO count as a fruit serving, right?).  You know what, though?  I felt guilt-free the whole time!  One major thing I have learned as food lover who is trying to lose weight is that you can’t shun all of the foods you love.  Also, I made sure I countered the fattening delights by drinking tons of water, subbing whole wheat bread for its bleached-white cousin, and keeping up with my daily walks.  My walks were much more strenuous in Georgia, as well, as the typical Bronx hills I’m used to were a joke compared to the mountainous terrain in Snellville.  I would return to the house looking like I got drenched in a deluge after those walks, and I loved it! One thing I had to do was check out the nightlife in GA.  I’m not really a party girl like I used to be, but I definitely enjoy a refreshing cocktail and some good tunes.  It’s always been fun for me to get ready with my bestie.  We throw on the tunes, some sex-kitten heels, and of course we “beat our faces” with hot-red lipsticks and bronze eyeshadows.  We ended up going to a spot that had a Dancehall and Reggae night and, being Jamaican, our standards were set high.  The club we went to is called Club 426, located at 5469 Memorial Drive in Stone Mountain, GA.  The drinks? On point.  The music? Dead on.  The men?  Eh...  We realized when we arrived that it was an 18+ club.  We still had a good time, but it was hard to not feel like a grandma when half the guys in the club couldn’t even purchase drinks.  Highlight?  There were two strippers on hand who gladly clapped their booties for some ones.   I had an incredible time in GA, even though I missed the other half of this Fabulously Fierce Duo.  Here are some must-do’s if you happen to be in the Snellville/Atlanta area.

Get out and walk/jog/run!  Even if you have a gym membership to a national fitness center, I would suggest doing some outdoor cardio.  The terrain is perfect for a challenging workout.

Visit the Yellow River Game Ranch located at 4525 U.S. 78  Lilburn, GA 30047.  Not only is it a nice leisurely stroll, you get to be hands on with the animals and there’s even free-roaming deer who love eating carrots from your hand!

Check out the Nightlife!  No, I didn’t meet anyone worth mentioning on my trip, but how can you possibly meet a new guy if you don’t get out?  Plus, I know I burned some calories with my dancing.

Eat Soul Food!  And, enjoy every sinful calorie, just watch your portion sizes.

[weight2date-blog]

Turning negatives into positives!

Let me paint you a picture. The location is Union Square, the sun is commencing to set, wind speeds are moderate, it is approximately 72-74 degrees outside. People are gathered from all walks of life reading books, singing songs, strolling through the park. I (Tiffany) am wearing this super cute, bubble gum dress I bought from Forever 21 which I paired with neon blue flats [color blocking at it’s finest]. My hair is straight, no makeup on, lips drenched in clear lip gloss [I feel so naked without my gloss] and a pair of brown/gold aviator glasses. Now, this would be the perfect scenario for a single girl like myself to go out on a date. And that is what I did, although, the date wasn't as mesmerizing as the picture I just painted. There were so many things I could pick apart from to explain why I unfortunately [for him], will not see him again. We met on Okcupid which is a free social networking/dating site. I normally do not like to admit to this but I have come to the realization that in 2012, you have to exacerbate all your options because there is no ONE specific place to meet the “right” guy [and or girl if that is your cup of tea]. His profile seemed decent enough for me to respond to his message and we conversed for a week or so until we finally exchanged numbers. Our conversations were actually pretty good, so that lead us to finally trying to meet in person -- we both figured we might as well see if the “chemistry” is the same in person as it is over the phone. We finally set a date for two days ago 4/17 to meet up after I got out of work. Normally, meeting up after work entails drinks and food [the food could be tapas for all I care, I just need something in my belly because most likely I haven’t eaten since 12/1 pm. We met at the upside down Elephant in Union Square. As he greets me with a hug and a side cheek kiss, I notice he has a McDonald’s Strawberry Banana smoothie in his hand. WHY? Good question -- well according to him he doesn't eat much when it’s nice outside, he prefers to drink a lot of liquids. In my head I am giving him all the eye rolls and sucking/kissing of the teeth as possible. I mean even if that was the case at least wait for me so we can grab something together; first negative of the night. As we start walking and talking I can’t help but notice his bottom lip was EXTREMELY dry. I kept putting on my lip gloss and as if to get him to realize what I was doing and hope he would copy. [You know it’s like when someone has funky breath, you take out a piece of gum knowing damn well you never really wanted a piece but you have to take it because if you don’t then it’s just going to seem as if you are this rude insensitive person telling them their breath stinks by offering them gum -- as I digress]. I couldn't look at him throughout the conversation; luckily I kept my shades on the whole time so he couldn't see my eyes wonder or doze off. Second negative of the night! I mean the list goes on but after that I just knew that this wasn't going to go anywhere. I wasn’t rude about the situation though, we continued the conversation a little longer. We ended up at Washington Square Park and talked and talked and talked. I did notice while he was talking I was drifting off and thinking of what I wanted to say next. LOL. I am not sure why I stayed there other than the fact that I was just trying to be polite and it was a beautiful day to people watch. I will say, the only benefit to this date, I found a cute little Italian gelato place called Armorino on 60 University Place. They have THE BEST PASSION FRUIT GELATO I have ever had in my life. I recommend everyone go out and try that place RIGHT NOW. Okay, well maybe not right now, but when you have time on the weekend or after work and you’re just looking to wind down. The moral of this story is although I did not find my prince charming, I am one step closer. I know what I like and I reserve the right to be “picky”. Plus I have a new favorite gelato store, I might even try to go again this week with Keelee Keelz (Nakiella) since she is finally back from Atlanta now. :) Turning negatives into positives. -1/2 of the Fabulously Fierce Duo <3 Tiffany

[weight2date-blog]

Momma Long Legs #FabulouslyFierceFridays

[weight2date-blog]

The Fabulously Fierce Duo

Hello World, 

We are two women who are currently struggling with weight as well as dating in NYC. After many failed dates, and attempts to lose weight individually, we figured why not join forces. We can help motive each other to become healthier versions of ourselves, as well as share tips, tricks, and advice on dating in general. 

First off, allow me to introduce myself.  My name is Nakiella, and I am 27 years-young.  I studied English Lit at SUNY Plattsburgh, and obviously, have a passion for writing.  My friends would describe me as a hilarious, generous, Leo with a palette for all things delicious.  I like my food like I like my men, hot and spicy ;) (I mean, what would you expect from a Fire sign?)  I have been single for almost two years and am currently weighing in at a whopping 199lbs.  (I must state, however, that I have been making healthier eating choices and walking daily for about 3 weeks now, and my original starting weight was 207lbs.)  My goal at the end of this journey?  To be a healthy Nakiella in an even healthier relationship.

The other voice of this blog is my good friend Tiffany. She is 25 years old and has an Advertising Marketing Communications degree from FIT. -- Hi [waving frantically], let me bring you into my world ^_^. (Clearly I'm the creative one, hehe) I currently live in Harlem with my two spunky pups; Cali & Apache. I've been single for about two years as well, shortly after moving back from California. I like to consider myself a foodie with an eclectic taste in music. I love spontaneous moments and have an affinity for travel. Ultimately, my goal is to lose a few extra pounds and find the elusive “good man” in NYC.  

We met at work, where Tiffany was in charge of training me.  We quickly realized that we shared much in common. Our main objective is to be healthy.  We also are working on the hypothesis that weight-loss will help in the dating world.  

Look forward to:

- Weekly Healthy Weigh-ins

- Gym and Fitness Updates

- Restaurant and Recipe Reviews

- Events and Venues, Nightlife and Beyond

- Excursions and Adventures

- Local Business Features

- Eye Candy 

- Dating Triumphs and Failures

Hope you enjoy our many journeys, as we look forward to sharing them with you.

Fabulously Fierce<3,

Nakiella & Tiffany

[weight2date-blog]

Meet the Fabulously Fierce Duo <3

(Tiffany, left. Nakiella, right.)

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She is working that leopard bathing suit #fierce