Is Taco Bell’s Meat REALLY That Bad?

As a child I ate a regular Crunchy Taco...as I matured, I matriculated to the Crunchy Taco Supreme lol

I’ll never forget my fifth birthday because it was quite possibly my best birthday as a child (ten was pretty good too, but as my father was sure to remind me back then, I was in “double digits” so I don’t include it).  What made my fifth birthday SO special is that I got to pick my birthday dinner from whatever restaurant I wanted.  I picked Taco Bell.  I got two hard tacos with mild sauce and my cinnamon sticks.  It was awesome.

Since then I’ve been a major supporter of the trashy, fake Mexican food better known as Taco Bell.  I know it’s not the healthiest thing but really, when have I ever been the “counting calories” and “healthy lifestyle” type anyway?  About a week or so ago, Veronika and I met up for a dinner date (yes, we’re corny like that and quit judging us) and while eating she shared, “Did you know Taco Bell’s meat is only 35% actual meat!?  Aaand, get this.  It’s rated grade F!!!  What!?  My professor told us in class yesterday.” She and I both shared an incredulous, hearty laugh because we both knew and understood that despite these disgusting facts, we were still going to be loyal to the brand.  Darn shame.

Over the next few days, I heard a few people talking about it, read a few tweets about it, but overall nothing too major.  Today out of curiosity I researched it and discovered that Beasley, Allen, Crow, Methvin, Portis & Miles, an Alabama-based law firm, is actually suing Taco Bell over this.  The suit is being popularly referred to as “Where’s The Beef?”  Their beef with Taco Bell (lol pun intended hahaha) is that “real beef” must be 70% beef with 30% fat at the BARE MINIMUM.  The firm didn’t reveal how they arrived at their conclusion, only saying that Taco Bell’s beef contains less than 35% beef-the other 65% is comprised of binders, extenders and fillers.  With numbers like that, it is quite evident a vegetarian could technically eat it and still be considered vegetarian, lol (I’m really cracking myself up today, but I digress).

Any truth to this? Ask me if I really care lol

As of Sunday, Taco Bell is considering countersuing.  Their point?  That their beef is actually 88% USDA-quality beef and that this lawfirm is slandering their name!  They published a huge advertisement this past Sunday in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times and USA Today (among others) that spells out the content of their meat mixture.  In addition, Taco Bell’s president, Greg Creed, uploaded a video on YouTube educating consumers about what all is included in the meat.  Among the ingredients Creed mentioned includes:

• 3-5% water which helps for moisture
• 3% to 5% oats, modified corn starch, sugar, yeast, citric acid,  silicon dioxide, maltodextrin and ‘other ingredients that contribute to the quality of our product’
• 88% USDA-quality beef
• 3% to 5% spices (including everything from salt, chili pepper, onion powder, tomato powder, sugar, garlic powder, cocoa powder, natural smoke flavor and a proprietary blend of Mexican spices and natural flavors).

Regardless of the outcome of this lawsuit and what the final findings are, I for one am not going anywhere.  I’ve been loyal to Taco Bell since I was five years old and nothing on earth compares to that Crunchy Taco Supreme after ending a late night full of entertainment.  As one patron of Taco Bell put it, “’I'm pretty sure you know what you’re paying for when you come to Taco Bell. If you want real beef you’d probably go somewhere else.”

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1351875/Taco-Bell-hits-Wheres-beef-lawsuit-online-statement-newspaper-ads.html#ixzz1Cdn8rtTS

What In The World Is Going On In Egypt Right Now?!

In case you're ever a contestant on "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?" you now know how to locate Egypt on a map

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past week, you are aware that Egypt has erupted into political turmoil, civil unrest and an overall fight for a true Democracy. 

It stems from Egypt’s current president, 82-year old President Hosni Mubarak, refusing to step down after spending 30 years in office.  While Mubarak represents the National Democratic Party, it is in fact democratic in name only.  The reality is that Mubarak has been leading autocratically (cue Kanye, “No one man should have all that power!”). 

“Protesters want President Hosni Mubarak, 82, to step down after 30 years in power. They say they are fed up after decades of poverty, repression, rigged elections, corruption, high unemployment and rampant abuse by police. They also want guarantees that – contrary to widespread speculation – President Mubarak’s son, Gamal, will not succeed him.”

-BBC News

In an attempt at compromise, Mubarak has fired his old cabinet and hired a new one, although he has not published the names of the new members.  He also named a new Vice President.  This all comes a little too late however.   He chose to make those progressive moves AFTER shutting down the Internet and cellular communication nationally in Egypt (they’ve since been restored), instituting curfews (that the protestors have not been honoring) and having Egyptian warplanes circling the protestors (think FBI’s helicoptors circling Compton…a shame)

At this point, many believe Mubarak needs to go ahead and step down fully and allow the country to run a TRUE Democratic government.  The USA has been allies with Egypt so this puts our Nation in a compromising position.  President Obama has all but said, “Step down please, you’re doin too much Mubarak.” 100+ people have been killed as a result of the protests and fighting and nothing is being accomplished.  Furthermore, with Egypt being such a major player within the Arab nations, there are obviously people in surrounding countries who are disatisfied with their own governments who may be planning protests and an overhaul of their own national governments as well. 

For more information, visit http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12324664 .  It offers an excellent overview of the current situation and what the possible next moves and outcomes are for Egypt in the next few days and weeks.  In the meantime, keep this country in your prayers. 

One slash Thirty slash Two-Thousand and Eleven

Things I am thankful for 1/30/2011

#1 Spring 2006 Greek life

• We all kicked it SOOO hard this weekend (us and their neo’s who are equally as fabulous), namely Friday night and Sunday afternoon…these girls mean so MUCH to me.  I miss them already.  They left late this afternoon back to the East Coast.  I’m kinda sad for real

#2 Waking up

• As much as life is throwing at me right now, I understand that there are people who are 6-ft underground who would love to be facing my life’s challenges right now instead of their (lack of) life as they now know it.

#3 Alone Time in Veronika’s Apartment

• It inspires me to get back to having my own.

#4 Miguel’s Debut Album, All I Want Is You

• The album is strongly motivated by love (ugh) but track #1, Sure Thing, keeps you optimistic about it, despite what life may have shown you in an attempt to prove otherwise.

#5 My Mom

• Once upon a time I thought I would never see/hear from her again and some mornings, like this morning, I wake up thanking God that she is no more than a room/call away from me.  Not too long ago, I truly believed that such a possibility would be nothing short of miraculous, i.e. it wasn’t happening.  Thank God for knowing better than me and working out impossible situations though.  Thank God.

Michelle Obama, Fashion Profile

If you were watching Tuesday night’s State of the Union Address, while President Obama seamlessly captivated his audience, it was our First Lady, who stood fearlessly in the audience, silently cheering her husband on.

Michelle Obama serves as a pillar, upholding her role as the matriarch and backbone to the Obama family legacy. In addition to this, she has also transformed the face of the American woman to the global community; one that is simultaneously domestically nurturing, intellectually savvy and fashionably chic. With such a tremendous undertaking, it is a wonder that she has successfully managed to impact American fashion by putting her own tasteful, yet unique spin on classic looks.

Many of our First Lady’s wardrobe choices pair traditional styles with her personal, modern day twists, usually accented by bright colors, popular textures and bold patterns. Oftentimes when out with President Obama she effortlessly accents his suit and tie combinations which helps present them as a united front. If you’re anything like me, you’ve been taking notes. Below are just a few fashion highlights from the past two years (courtesy of NY Magazine).

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Who’s Moving Again?

I’m moving folks.  Supposedly this weekend.  But if you look around absolutely NOTHING has been packed.  NOTHING.  I have so many things and am just thinking about how miserable I’m about to be this weekend moving and then later, unpacking.  On top of that, this is a big entertainment weekend for me since a sorority sister of mine is coming in from out of town.  We haven’t all hung out since this summer when we all went on a trip to Las Vegas (to say I had a ball would be quite the understatement) so this weekend is supposed to be EPIC.

Am I the only one like this when it comes to moving?  A lot of times when watching tv and people are moving they prepare for it days and weeks beforehand.  They have neatly organized boxes with labels on the outside that clearly identify which rooms they belong in.  People I actually know prepare for packing in similar ways.  They pack things up and have created logistics for moving day. 

Today is Thursday.  I have zero plans on packing today as my evening is already jampacked.  I guess that leaves Friday?  All day Saturday?  Then Sunday after church to unpack?  All this amidst eventful evening plans with my girls?  Eek!  Pray, please and thanks.

Pray For Antoine Folks!

I just visited www.LettersToOhio.com (yeah, I’m semi-obsessed lol…shut up and quit judging me) and saw where Antoine’s about to get a job.  If you’ve been reading his blog you understand how BADLY he needs to be blessed with this job.  Pray for him to get the position that is the right fit for him (right now it’s looking like a Team Lead or higher!).

I know I shouldn’t, but I worry about him yall.  To see him really having to apply himself like he never has had to before to acheive miniscule things that he previously took for granted makes me proud but I also find myself worrying a bit.  Of course Antoine does not approve of this and told me the other day, “Look at the birds we see everyday and God makes sure they eat everyday and are safe and out of harm’s way.  Are we/am I not more valuable to our Lord than the birds?”  Life man. 

So pray, pray, PRAY!  It is PHENOMENAL that the store has already decided to hire him.  Now we are praying that he get the best position possible that God see’s fit.  To read more about it, visit www.LettersToOhio.com and visit Letter #9.

What Are You Thankful For?

Panda-Monium Pink, my signature nail polish color!

Over at www.LettersToOhio.com Antoine frequently updates on what he’s thankful for that day.  It started as a challenge that a friend proposed to him-every day write down 7 things that you are thankful for and you are NOT allowed to repeat.

I didn’t even think about attempting to commit myself to such an undertaking because I knew that I’m not disciplined enough.  I am honestly amazed at the fact that I’ve managed to be so consistent when it comes to updating this blog.  It’s VERY difficult for me to commit myself to daily tasks/rituals.  Some great examples of this are that I don’t talk to my closest friends everyday and my routine varies from day to day-it’s never the same.

But for today I’ve decided to make a list (not quite 7 though) of things that I’m thankful for.  And then I’ve decided that tomorrow I will try to carry on that list, and so on and so forth.  I will have to take it one day at a time.  I’m wondering if perhaps I don’t give myself enough credit-maybe I am more disciplined than I realized?  Time will tell.

So for Wednesday, January 26, 2011 I am thankful for…

1)      Authors who will take the time out of their crazy book tour schedules to allow a rookie writer like myself to interview them

1. check back here for more details later this week or early next week…I’ve got something juicy in store for you all!)

2)      Frohawks

1. This morning my hair was an INSANE mass of shrunken curls that were not trying to cooperate.  After a few splashes of water, some hair gel and the security of bobby pins, I have a funky hairstyle that has saved the day!



3)      Panda-Monium Pink

1. This is quickly becoming my favorite OPI nail color (move over Thrill of Brazil) and makes me smile every time I glance down at my finger nails.



4)      MMS Text Messages

1. Sometimes the image that can be seen on that picture text message can get you through rough parts of a day



5)      Shelby Lynne

1. When I got the news about point #1 she was the first person I called…I love her more than this world will EVER know.



My New MUST-HAVE Item!

"I need it in my life, I want it in my life..." Juvenile voice lol

            This past holiday season when I went over my father’s house to greet the family I was temporarily distracted by Shelby’s new Christmas present.

            While yes, I was excited to see her and Mike, when I exclaimed, “It’s so good to see you, I’ve missed you so much!” all I was thinking about was one thing.  Where in the world did she get her fabulous wool, gray cape!?

            While it was phenomenal to see Shelby, it was also great to see that cape.  She explained hurriedly that Mike got it for her for Christmas as she went across the room saying hello to everyone else but I just could not take my eyes off of that cape.

While I have some knee/thigh high black leather boots, I'd love to wear my heeled oxford's (the one's pictured) with it as well...

            It’s been a month now and I’m still thinking about that cape.  I not only want it-I’ve convinced myself now that I need it and must have it.  It is an extreme situation and this one wool, cape would complete my winter shopping season before I begin gearing up for Spring. 

            After doing some research online I found a black cape that is screaming my name!  By mid-February I plan on being the proud owner, all thanks to my Mommy because she loves me and understands how much I need it.  Because really, I need it.  And yes, I’m copying my big cousin but really, after 20-some odd years of copying, is this really a surprise to anyone anymore?  I didn’t think so. 

Oh and P.S. to Shelby: Hey couso, is it okay if I kinda copy you and get a similar coat in black?  I love you love you love you!  I promise I won’t wear it if I know ahead of time you’re gonna wear yours.  Cool?  Cool.  Lol XOXO

Absolutely fabulous...

Followup to Two Weeks Ago…

The smile is sincere, I promise

            If you read this blog about two weeks ago, I was in a VERY dark place…my heart was broken, I couldn’t pick my head up, I felt helpless and I had temporarily lost sight of Ashley.  To put it shortly, it was a really tough time for me.  Since then all of the feedback, encouragement and talks that so many of my close friends and readers have given me via comments, texts, bbms and emails have done wonders.  All those prayers, thoughts and well wishes did not go in vain.

            At this time I have finally gotten the closure that was lacking back then.  Since then I’ve had a final talk with him on that chapter of our relationship which has helped me immensely when it comes to getting over it and moving along.  As a result of that, and all the support from those around me, I’ve been able to put a genuine smile on my face (no more fake ones) and look forward to a bright future. 

            Regarding my future, I’m still pursuing NYC.  I have to do it.  Summer 2011 is still solid although now Spring 2011 looks even better.  Who knows how it will all work out though.  I have to make sure I take care of home before I can up and leave.  It’s funny because last week I applied to a few Exec Asst positions and received immediate call backs.  I was SHOCKED!  These possible employers were ready for me to interview right then and there.  While I was anticipating a 3-month+ job search, it seems like it will only take a fraction of that. 

            So as I was saying, I have to get my current position covered and in addition to that, I have to secure my bail bond license-it’s up for renewal in March yet I won’t be able to actually use it until April…essentially it’s a complicated process for no reason.  And when I’m honest with myself I don’t feel comfortable being in NYC without that license.  But thanks for reading my random ramblings my loves and have a fabulous day!

I’ve Got the Spirit…Holy Spirit That Is!!!

Solid Rock Church (with our "King Of King's statue)

            Recently I was reading a blog that I’ve recently become a fan of, http://thiscannotbemylife.wordpress.com/, and one of the posts on there, “I Don’t Want Anything (Not Even Facebook & Twitter) Instead of God…” got me to thinking…a lot.   While reading it I realized how little my own blog focuses on my faith. 

            In my opinion, this is not okay.  It is not okay because in my personal life I believe that God is VERY present yet from reading this blog one would not know that.  Often I find myself having mini conversations with God throughout the day.  When I see/hear bad news my first thought is to God and it’s for Him to, “protect/heal/be with them Father.”  When I’m tweeting and thinking about posting something that may be slightly questionable I think, “Is this something a Christian should be doing?”  And when I’m having a phenomenal hair day (like today lol) I think, “Thank you God for blessing me with this head of hair.”  Seriously.  So in keeping with this message I figured I’d share with you all something I learned in church yesterday. 

            I attend Solid Rock Church (yes, Touchdown-Jesus-that-got-burned-down-off-I75) and have been going semi-faithfully since my first visit when I was 9-years old.  Since then I’ve attempted to finish the membership classes twice (this second time I believe I will finally finish lol).  At Solid Rock Church the pastors are BIG on sharing their personal testimonies and how we can all apply those lessons to our daily lives.  Because of this it is NOT often that I actually learn something brand new at church.  So yesterday when Pastor Darlene Bishop began her message with one about the Holy Spirit, why it’s so important and how to use it, I instantly became excited. 

            Up until yesterday all I knew of the Holy Spirit is that it is a part of the Trinity (God, Son and Holy Spirit) and that some people could get caught up in it (my mother is infamous for it) and start speaking in tongues!  Pastor Darlene taught us to view the Trinity as we would a major corporation with God being the owner, Jesus being the CEO and the Holy Spirit being the chief administrator.  How on Earth can we expect to talk to the CEO without having two words to share with the administrator?!  Hmm…great point!

            Next up Pastor Darlene elaborated on how the Holy Spirit can be used.  She was saying oftentimes we exert so much energy engaging our spirit in fighting the temptations of sin throughout the week.  By the time Sunday rolls around we’ll come into church, dragging our wounded spirits into the pews and pray that God fills us back up so that we can continue the good fight.  “God didn’t intend that for you!  He gave each of us the power of the Holy Spirit that lives inside us to fight those battles for us!”  She went on to explain that all we simply have to do is call on that Holy Spirit who is able to relieve that burden we carry.  In need of prayer and don’t know how to ask for help?  Pastor Darlene explained the Holy Spirit is there and will ask God for you, all you have to do is ask. 

            That message was so necessary for me!  I definitely plan on putting the Holy Spirit to work in my life this upcoming week and am so excited to see the results of His work in my life.  I will be calling on the Holy Spirit to fight feelings of depression, complacency and defeat in daily life.  These are the biggest obstacles I’ve been dealing with as of recently. 

            What about you?  What are areas that the Holy Spirit can go to work for on your behalf?  All you have to do is ask!  As Pastor Darlene let all of us know yesterday, the Holy Spirit is alive and well in all of us, all you have to do is ask.  My oh my, our God is so great!  Be blessed today Saints!