I always ask my kids to try their hardest....and most of the time, they do. We expect so much out of them and time and time again, they don't disappoint. Sometimes they do, but I have to give them so much credit. When I think about myself and trying to do my best I'm often disappointed. In my head I tell myself I'm trying my best but most of the time, I'm just not willing to try harder. How can I say that I truly want something without my actions proving that statement to be true. It makes me think of Heavenly Father listening to millions of prayers of people asking and asking for things that they want or need, and so many times, just minutes or hours later it's like they(including me) completely forgot what I said I'd do. The truth is, when the going gets to tough, I start to check out, stomp my feet and whine like a two year old that didn't get her way. Why is it that when I tell myself no I still want to be a toddler and throw a fit? When will I ever grow out of that? There are several things that I want to do or change in my life but even the thought almost gives me hives. lol. I guess that means, those are the things that I most need to change. I've been mentally making a list of things that I'd like to do better at, and I'd like to share it.
1. Reading my scriptures.
2. Praying on my knees in the morning.(I'm much better in the evening.)
3. Keep an organized weekly schedule
4. Eat healthy with more consistency
5. Drink more water
6. Eliminate most diet soda
Phew.....that #6 hurts. I really like it! But I'm drinking it too often which keeps me from drinking enough water some days.
I WILL MAKE IT 30 WITH NO SUGAR! I'm bigger than this goal......it will not defeat me. :) It's more of a mental challenge now. :)
Well I hope you all are well. Sorry it took me so long to post. Brinley's 5th birthday was yesterday and I've been up to my ears in party planning! (pics soon) Love you all.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
The Floor is Done
Work in the office is crazy busy now, with the launch of the 2012-13 season. It is a very exciting season, and initial sales are very strong. I have come home so thoroughly exhausted this week. Last night at the dinner table, I bowed my head and closed my eyes to say prayer...you know how I can immediately fall asleep? I think that started to happen, and instead of praying, out came "Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, this is N and stopped, thinking, "Where am I?" Now THAT is tired. And weird.
I missed exercising when the Hillmans were working on the floor. Just too much to do. I started up again this morning. I don't do much. Only about a half hour. But consistency is the key, hopefully...that is what the video says! I took a walk today also and it was SO nice to get out in the fresh air.
I checked our carrots in the garden that have been hiding under the piles of leaves all winter - they look fresh and just need to be dug up! I can't believe it worked!
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Add a new floor...
I anticipated painting our bathroom on Saturday but it didn't happen. Dad had to prime some more, added texture to the ceiling, then turned his attention to the toilet. Recently it has started "rocking" if you know what I mean. The bolt on the toilet broke when Dad tried to tighten it. With the help of some very nice friends, Bill Ettinger and Dennis Berzey, it was determined that the sub floor around the toilet was rotting. They cut out the entire sub flooring, and now it's clean with just plywood and ready for Brother and Sister Hillman, who have a tile business to put in a new sub floor and then lay tile this week. I am really grateful that we discovered NOW the floor needed to be replaced.
A life of DAY 1's
This past week has been a little frustrating. I've tried and tried to stick to my plan and was doing well until I had a girl night and I had a friend begging me to have dessert because "girl nights are just not the same without it. Their JUST NOT!" So....me being the people pleaser, I gave in. And dessert, I did have. Then two days later I had this same friend over for a movie and I had some snacks available for her because I didn't want a repeat and then she was chastising me for having these things out because she'd been good all day and was now trying not to eat it! Oh NO SHE DIDN'T! I was so instantly bugged because here I am trying to go out of my way to please her and not myself. I want to completely vow to never do that again! Unfortunately I'm sure through life I'll have to or will do something for someone that I don't particularly want to do but I can tell you this....these days I'm going to listen to myself a little bit more. I'm so annoyed.
So here's the deal. I don't know if a 30 day quest is a good thing or not. But I do know that eating it because someone else wants me too is not happening anytime soon!!!
I love hearing from you all. It's so wonderful and I feel a little more connected. Thanks for blogging. I find myself always excited to log on and see if anyone posted. :)
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Easy Taco Salad with Catalina Dressing
Do you guys remember this one? We ate this the other day and it was a blast from the past for me. Mom used to make this frequently while we were growing up. It's easy, fast, and pretty healthy...and tasty. It was a nice change from basic tacos and I like it because everyone can make their own according to their tastes.
- 1 lb hamburger, cooked and seasoned with taco seasoning
- Lettuce (or we like a lettuce and spinach mix)
- Tomatoes
- Kidney beans
- Cheese
- Green onions
- Olives (optional)
- Catalina salad dressing
Friday, March 16, 2012
Lynette
This week really has been one of reflection for me. I know we have posted a lot about weight and health....health. That's a very interesting thing. This week a dear friend passed away because of her health and nothing could have changed that. Just over three months ago she went to the dr. because she didn't feel good. She was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer and was told there was nothing that could be done. She is the kind of person that you really can't think of anything negative; the kind of person most of us strive to be like. She would say things plainly, but you never felt threatened or offended by what had been said because you knew she loved you. I have had so many thoughts this week about life, death, and health. And, of course, Matthew, and how hard it is to lose someone. I hope her family is at peace, if not now, then soon. I love you Lynette. Thank you for being a great example and friend. We'll talk again sometime!
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Water drip in the Ceiling!
One week ago I looked up in the bathroom and discovered a small bulge under the paint with a slow drip of water! On Saturday, Dad and Cory's thought that it was the upstairs toilet was dismissed when they removed it and checked the seal. So they cut into the ceiling and discovered a pinhole in the water line! It was fixed easily enough, but then we had a hole in our ceiling which had to dry out and be repaired. Of course part of that repair will involve painting, and one thing led to another...we have purchased a new vanity, sink, counter, faucet, lighting, and paint! Dad has repaired the hole in the ceiling, he's primed it and a portion of the wall, and we'll paint this week-end and get everything hooked up. I took a "before" picture so I can do a "before and after." I thought you might like to see it.
A couple of weeks ago I signed up to make 2 dozen cookies for refreshments after our ward's melodrama. I made the cookies tonight, and in the process I did not sample the cookie dough, or any cookies, or even crumbs! This is huge for me. You know how babies just have the urge to put everything in their mouth? I am sort of like that when baking cookies: I have try it to see what it tastes like when it's right out of the oven, I wonder what it tastes like when it has cooled a little? And on and on, sampling to satisfy all my hypothetical questions until I either get too full, or I get sick. I didn't even have the "urge" to do that, and maybe it's because I've exercised each morning. I feel more power to resist.
Jennie I read the blogs you posted. Wow. I am in awe of anyone who can run farther than 2 blocks! I know I can't. I fizzle out after about a half a block. There must be quite a thrill to be able to run a half marathon, or any race, really. Good job, Jennie!
A couple of weeks ago I signed up to make 2 dozen cookies for refreshments after our ward's melodrama. I made the cookies tonight, and in the process I did not sample the cookie dough, or any cookies, or even crumbs! This is huge for me. You know how babies just have the urge to put everything in their mouth? I am sort of like that when baking cookies: I have try it to see what it tastes like when it's right out of the oven, I wonder what it tastes like when it has cooled a little? And on and on, sampling to satisfy all my hypothetical questions until I either get too full, or I get sick. I didn't even have the "urge" to do that, and maybe it's because I've exercised each morning. I feel more power to resist.
Jennie I read the blogs you posted. Wow. I am in awe of anyone who can run farther than 2 blocks! I know I can't. I fizzle out after about a half a block. There must be quite a thrill to be able to run a half marathon, or any race, really. Good job, Jennie!
Blog Changes
You will notice that I added some links on the right side. They are different inspirational blogs and healthy ideas. Please feel free to add some too! I also added a label list. Please feel free to add labels to your post. I started the "healthy recipe" label so if you post one, put the label on it. It will allow us to search the blog better when we need to find something. Other labels could be, exercise, daily thoughts, gardening, whatever. Also PLEASE feel free to talk about other things and not just healthy living. Other "WEIGHTY issues" are important too. :)
Let's have dessert...no added sugar!
Vegan ice cream: a splash of almond milk, 1 1/2 frozen bananas, and a handful of organic berries in the food processor for a few minutes. Delicious, healthy, and super low calorie!
JOURNEY HAPPY....NOT DESTINATION HAPPY
Truly exercise is very POWERFUL. For the mind, as well as the body. I was trying to think about things that were different years ago, and how did I exactly get in this awful condition and one thing that is for sure is a lot less exercise. I was one of those people that always declared that exercise never really helped me much but you realize what it's doing for you when you stop. Since Kevin and I started our own business we wanted to cut back on a few expensive. Out went the gym membership and in came the chaffed thighs. Okay not really, but close. HAha I had great intentions thinking I'd just get up in the morning or exercise at night but its a whole lot harder than it sounds. And I know that you all know that. I feel bad for Lisa because I feel overwhelmed just listening to her talk about her schedule. I have been in a place before where I felt like I was being slowly swallowed by the monster called life. But Lisa....I've heard this before, "Six pack abs are made 80% in the kitchen and 20% in the gym". So as long as you keep track or your calories you are eating, you will lose weight. Exercise when you can but don't be hard on yourself and celebrate little victories. (PS-I'm sooo glad you're here!)
I have a tile in my bathroom that says, "Enjoy this moment, for this moment is your life." Its a good reminder to me that we need to find JOY in this journey and whatever else we are doing. Lets not fall under the category of, "I'll be happy when...." We need to stay positive and be happy now. Life has a way of sucking joy from us all sometimes but lets help each other and enjoy what we are doing. Hey....at least we are all in this together!
I have been doing MUCH better with my exercise. It helps that weather here has been 20-30 degrees above normal and amazingly beautiful. I woke up and ran 4 miles this morning and then Brinley, Piper and I went on another run. I'm rediscovering my jogging stroller! Its much harder than running alone so even if we don't go as far, it's a great work out. Brinley rides without training wheels and is extremely fast now so she'd go all day. It was really fun today. We went on the trails. We had a snack by the river, and rode back. Anyway, I'm exhausted and came home starving.
So all news cant be good news right? This morning I stepped on the scale and I was UP 1 pound! I was very disappointed but I'm moving on and looking forward to another great week next Thursday.
Love you all. I better run....Have a fabulous day.
Jen
Here are some KILLER home workouts to TONE UP. I'm doing these right now. You can run through as many times as you'd like but once is hard and I'm way sore! I'll start doing 2 times each next week.
This will also work your TUMMY!
I have a tile in my bathroom that says, "Enjoy this moment, for this moment is your life." Its a good reminder to me that we need to find JOY in this journey and whatever else we are doing. Lets not fall under the category of, "I'll be happy when...." We need to stay positive and be happy now. Life has a way of sucking joy from us all sometimes but lets help each other and enjoy what we are doing. Hey....at least we are all in this together!
I have been doing MUCH better with my exercise. It helps that weather here has been 20-30 degrees above normal and amazingly beautiful. I woke up and ran 4 miles this morning and then Brinley, Piper and I went on another run. I'm rediscovering my jogging stroller! Its much harder than running alone so even if we don't go as far, it's a great work out. Brinley rides without training wheels and is extremely fast now so she'd go all day. It was really fun today. We went on the trails. We had a snack by the river, and rode back. Anyway, I'm exhausted and came home starving.
So all news cant be good news right? This morning I stepped on the scale and I was UP 1 pound! I was very disappointed but I'm moving on and looking forward to another great week next Thursday.
Love you all. I better run....Have a fabulous day.
Jen
Here are some KILLER home workouts to TONE UP. I'm doing these right now. You can run through as many times as you'd like but once is hard and I'm way sore! I'll start doing 2 times each next week.
This will also work your TUMMY!
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Half way through the week!
Lisa I'm so glad you're here with us! I've been thinking about the struggles that we all are trying to overcome. Most of my thoughts are about my struggles, because those are the ones I have control over, but maybe my thoughts will be beneficial and help.
I think that the sum of who I am is made up of a million decisions that take place over the course of a lifetime. So it is important to take care of the important things now, this minute, and not wait until tomorrow. Part of those "important" things include eating properly and exercise, so we can feel great and have the strength and energy to live life to the fullest.
Do you remember Charlene Gambill? She is Steve Gambill's mom, Matt's friend. She wrote a book called, "Abundant Health, the Alkaline Way." Here are some of her tips to avoid sugar cravings:
Don't give in to temptation: If you start eating the sugar (or refined carbohydrates, since they digest as sugar), the cravings go on and on. In fact, they get worse. It's like a drug addict: once you get started, you are then hooked. So go "cold turkey"; don't go near the stuff. Keep it out of your house & home."
I think I'll share one tip a day. Time for bed so I can get up and exercise. Tomorrow will be 4 days in a row!
I think that the sum of who I am is made up of a million decisions that take place over the course of a lifetime. So it is important to take care of the important things now, this minute, and not wait until tomorrow. Part of those "important" things include eating properly and exercise, so we can feel great and have the strength and energy to live life to the fullest.
Do you remember Charlene Gambill? She is Steve Gambill's mom, Matt's friend. She wrote a book called, "Abundant Health, the Alkaline Way." Here are some of her tips to avoid sugar cravings:
Don't give in to temptation: If you start eating the sugar (or refined carbohydrates, since they digest as sugar), the cravings go on and on. In fact, they get worse. It's like a drug addict: once you get started, you are then hooked. So go "cold turkey"; don't go near the stuff. Keep it out of your house & home."
I think I'll share one tip a day. Time for bed so I can get up and exercise. Tomorrow will be 4 days in a row!
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Getting Started!
Well...I've finally made it to the blog! Yay! The truth is....I haven't even started a plan for loosing weight yet. I have been so caught up in taking care of my girls and making sure I talk with my hubby who is living in S.D. that I just plain forgot about me.
I have wanted to try and loose weight for a long time and I did about a a year and a half ago. I lost 10 pounds. I even was starting to fit in my size 8 jeans again. How did I do it? I wasn't working and could go workout whenever I wanted to. I had a friend teaching an exercise class at my church building. Now...I work for the school district here in Kennewick and by the time I get home I'm helping with homework, getting dinner and cleaning up the house because it always has to stay clean due to us selling it. I then call Hung and get my time in with him as well. He is two hours ahead of me and sometimes it's a challenge. By the time I get into bed its about 11:00pm. I might watch a show here or there to wind down or just go to bed. Then, I get up again and start all over. It's exhausting!
I envy my days when I stayed home with my kids. I miss it so much! So...this is me now trying to take a little more control of me. I'm not sure when I will fit my exercising in yet but I am going to do something at least three times a week. I am just going to take better care of me. I Do feel like I am six months pregnant. Dakota asked me a long time ago if I was pregnant. I know how that feels. It's just time to take charge of me!!! Pray for me! I will need it!
I have wanted to try and loose weight for a long time and I did about a a year and a half ago. I lost 10 pounds. I even was starting to fit in my size 8 jeans again. How did I do it? I wasn't working and could go workout whenever I wanted to. I had a friend teaching an exercise class at my church building. Now...I work for the school district here in Kennewick and by the time I get home I'm helping with homework, getting dinner and cleaning up the house because it always has to stay clean due to us selling it. I then call Hung and get my time in with him as well. He is two hours ahead of me and sometimes it's a challenge. By the time I get into bed its about 11:00pm. I might watch a show here or there to wind down or just go to bed. Then, I get up again and start all over. It's exhausting!
I envy my days when I stayed home with my kids. I miss it so much! So...this is me now trying to take a little more control of me. I'm not sure when I will fit my exercising in yet but I am going to do something at least three times a week. I am just going to take better care of me. I Do feel like I am six months pregnant. Dakota asked me a long time ago if I was pregnant. I know how that feels. It's just time to take charge of me!!! Pray for me! I will need it!
Monday, March 12, 2012
Sugar Cravings
Good to see Heather has joined our conversations!
I find that when I am slipping,, I pull out a couple of books I have and remind myself why I don't eat sugar when I need a little pep-talk. Or, I eat a dessert, and I'm absolutely miserable for the rest of the day. That happened today, as a matter of fact. And then I am rededicated to my cause. I won't be eating chocolate again for a
v-e-r-y long time. (No matter how pretty it looks!)
Breaking habits is SO very hard. I only worked out the one time last week. Even though it felt so good. Jennie, you mentioned the 8 minute workout. I thought "Huh?" I looked at my training videos, and sure enough, there it was! So this morning, I started with Day 1, and I love working out! - I really really want to do this everyday. I just need to want it bad enough not to let other things keep me from it.
I would love to write so much more, but I am going to exercise some discipline here, and go to bed so I can get up and you know what.
I find that when I am slipping,, I pull out a couple of books I have and remind myself why I don't eat sugar when I need a little pep-talk. Or, I eat a dessert, and I'm absolutely miserable for the rest of the day. That happened today, as a matter of fact. And then I am rededicated to my cause. I won't be eating chocolate again for a
v-e-r-y long time. (No matter how pretty it looks!)
Breaking habits is SO very hard. I only worked out the one time last week. Even though it felt so good. Jennie, you mentioned the 8 minute workout. I thought "Huh?" I looked at my training videos, and sure enough, there it was! So this morning, I started with Day 1, and I love working out! - I really really want to do this everyday. I just need to want it bad enough not to let other things keep me from it.
I would love to write so much more, but I am going to exercise some discipline here, and go to bed so I can get up and you know what.
If she can do it...so can I!
Alright, so I really DON'T want to commit to this but I do. No....no I don't. Yes I do. As I said before I wanted to completely eliminate sugar, tried last week but didn't. I was better, but still ate some. I know that I will eat it sparingly throughout my life.And by sparingly I don't mean before and after every meal like recently. But I do want to really change my lifestyle and make it the occasional treat. So, it takes 28 days to make a habit.....I'll commit to 30 and have 0...that's zero sugar. Starting today. When I was at my thinnest, I rarely ate it. I loved how I felt too. Jessica my friend and her family have not watched TV for two WHOLE weeks. TV is somewhat of an addiction for her so I'm SUPER impressed. If she can do it....so can I dangit! Besides...I'd like those 3 pounds I lost turn into 30. Yes.....uh huh, I said 30. I know, I know.....I've let my fat jiggly butt (myself) go. :)
Friday, March 9, 2012
And THAT folks is T minus 3 lbs!
Yep......I'm so excited! I just can't hide it! 3 whole pounds down in week 1! But you know what gets me more excited......Heather! YAY, I'm glad you found us! And as far as the poop candy goes...its seriously hard to not treat yourself every time your 2 year old earns poop candy or every time she doesn't. (one for you, one for Mom) I remember those days... and I'm sure they will be approaching AGAIN before we know with The Pipes. Oh, and its a big day when your kid is finally convinced that there's not a second baby in there. It took longer than desired with Piper for that blessed day to come.
Okay, so back to the 3 pounds.Hooray right? I am thrilled. I didn't eat perfectly but I tried to limit my "cheats" and I guess it paid off. I watched my calories daily(which isn't too fun) and I'm learning that a little consistency might just be what the doctor ordered. I only worked out 2 times but next week marks the 10 week countdown before the 20k so I'll be running 4 days, roughly 20 miles a week at least starting Monday. I'm not excited about the cold but I know soon it will warm up and wont be as painfully chilly.
Other than that..not much to report. Things are pretty darn good.
Jen
Okay, so back to the 3 pounds.Hooray right? I am thrilled. I didn't eat perfectly but I tried to limit my "cheats" and I guess it paid off. I watched my calories daily(which isn't too fun) and I'm learning that a little consistency might just be what the doctor ordered. I only worked out 2 times but next week marks the 10 week countdown before the 20k so I'll be running 4 days, roughly 20 miles a week at least starting Monday. I'm not excited about the cold but I know soon it will warm up and wont be as painfully chilly.
Other than that..not much to report. Things are pretty darn good.
Jen
Little encouraging moments
So I'm a little encouraged this morning. I was getting ready to take a shower and my daughter asked where the baby was that was in my tummy. Well, he was getting a diaper changed by daddy, which is awesome in and of itself, but the point here is that she noticed there was no baby! This is the same little person who keeps telling me that her cheeks look like mine when she has "poop candy" in her mouth.
I should probably explain her comment here: picture a toddler with a whole Lindt Lindor ball stuck in the side of her cheek. Lovely, I know and I'm sure my parenting skills could be questioned by some who are disgusted by me giving a child that much chocolate while potty training, but it worked and was a great motivator for her. She's a great little eater and if i give her too much chocolate for six months of her life, so be it.
Regardless, I choose to interpret the cheek comment to mean that i have adult-size cheeks. I have more work to do to feel healthier and leaner, but I'm encouraged - that's it.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
I'm finally Here!
Okay, so I have to admit, I've never actually blogged...anything! So, this is my first blog (thanks to Jennie for setting everything up) and we'll see how it goes.
I don't have a lot of time to write tonight, but here's a little about my current situation: mom of two young kids and currently feeling the 'effects' of the last child. It's time to get serious about health and fitness. My hubby is extremely busy right now, and I'm finding it very difficult to get to the gym. I need to try to find other ways to get rid of that "extra love" (thanks again Jennie). With the colder weather, that is my first challenge. My second is that I, like my sisters, get extremely sick when I'm pregnant. So, now that I'm not, I still find it difficult to not have that Lindt Lindor chocolate if I want it because, darn it, I wasn't able to eat it in the not so distant past. So, really what we have here is me making excuses for all the junk that I eat. I have to say that I do eat pretty healthily, but I cheat a lot. I heard one time that weightloss was 80% diet and 20% fitness, so I hope my healthy eating is counting for something.
So, here's the plan for now, I'm going to work harder to do some kind of workout, however small it may be. I will also limit the cheating that I do. I need to think more about my defined goals and will post them later, but for now, let me put a little more thought into it. As far as my current progress, I lost 30 lbs. of the post baby weight pretty quickly. I plateaued for a little bit but it seems I'm starting to lose weight again. Hopefully it will continue. I'm exicted to keep track of my progress, but I'm more excited to have a place where I can regularly connect with my sisters and mom. I love them so much more than I can possibly express!
Until next time....
I don't have a lot of time to write tonight, but here's a little about my current situation: mom of two young kids and currently feeling the 'effects' of the last child. It's time to get serious about health and fitness. My hubby is extremely busy right now, and I'm finding it very difficult to get to the gym. I need to try to find other ways to get rid of that "extra love" (thanks again Jennie). With the colder weather, that is my first challenge. My second is that I, like my sisters, get extremely sick when I'm pregnant. So, now that I'm not, I still find it difficult to not have that Lindt Lindor chocolate if I want it because, darn it, I wasn't able to eat it in the not so distant past. So, really what we have here is me making excuses for all the junk that I eat. I have to say that I do eat pretty healthily, but I cheat a lot. I heard one time that weightloss was 80% diet and 20% fitness, so I hope my healthy eating is counting for something.
So, here's the plan for now, I'm going to work harder to do some kind of workout, however small it may be. I will also limit the cheating that I do. I need to think more about my defined goals and will post them later, but for now, let me put a little more thought into it. As far as my current progress, I lost 30 lbs. of the post baby weight pretty quickly. I plateaued for a little bit but it seems I'm starting to lose weight again. Hopefully it will continue. I'm exicted to keep track of my progress, but I'm more excited to have a place where I can regularly connect with my sisters and mom. I love them so much more than I can possibly express!
Until next time....
Monday, March 5, 2012
My wallet
In my last post I explained that I lost my wallet on the bus last Friday. My first opportunity to go to the STA Bus plaza was this afternoon (Monday). My wallet WAS in lost and found! I am so GRATEFUL that I've got it back!
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Sisters....Where Art Thou?
Lisa and Heather....I keep waiting. :)
Well our company came and went. I ate well but regret to admit that I have a piece of Birthday Cake. Why? No idea...except that I seemed like the right thing to do at a birthday party. Hmmm.... I need to get over that. But I will say. I did so much better than usual. I'm going to be glad about that.
Good Job MOM! I didn't know that you had the total gym. Just 8 minutes a day right? And you'll be good as gold. :) Do you like it? I'm sure it's nice to have right there in the house.
I forgot to tell the family about fasting for Piper. Kevin and I are. I'm feeling pretty calm about the news that we received now. I know that we will do whatever we can for Piper how mild or severe this ends up being. (We were told that Piper has an undeveloped Optic Nerve. It can mean eye and vision problems but also brain development issues. It is one of the three most common causes of blind children. We go back to the dr in 1 1/2 months to recheck it. We are praying that if this is something that Piper will have to deal with that it will be mild. There is no cure.) I have learned that Optic Nerve Hypoplasia is a stable condition and most likely her health will not deteriorate over time. We are and will always do whats best for our sweet Piper.
I love you all. Thanks for being a support to me. I can't wait to see you this summer.
Jen
Well our company came and went. I ate well but regret to admit that I have a piece of Birthday Cake. Why? No idea...except that I seemed like the right thing to do at a birthday party. Hmmm.... I need to get over that. But I will say. I did so much better than usual. I'm going to be glad about that.
Good Job MOM! I didn't know that you had the total gym. Just 8 minutes a day right? And you'll be good as gold. :) Do you like it? I'm sure it's nice to have right there in the house.
I forgot to tell the family about fasting for Piper. Kevin and I are. I'm feeling pretty calm about the news that we received now. I know that we will do whatever we can for Piper how mild or severe this ends up being. (We were told that Piper has an undeveloped Optic Nerve. It can mean eye and vision problems but also brain development issues. It is one of the three most common causes of blind children. We go back to the dr in 1 1/2 months to recheck it. We are praying that if this is something that Piper will have to deal with that it will be mild. There is no cure.) I have learned that Optic Nerve Hypoplasia is a stable condition and most likely her health will not deteriorate over time. We are and will always do whats best for our sweet Piper.
I love you all. Thanks for being a support to me. I can't wait to see you this summer.
Jen
Friday, March 2, 2012
Feeling Good
Thank you, Jennie, for your wonderful praise. I think that eating the way I do has paid off some to keep pounds off and be healthy. And best of all, I feel great and have a lot of energy. I want to accomplish great things with my life, and I need my health and energy!
I started my exercise workout this morning! I am very jazzed about it but I'm sure if you could have been a fly on the wall observing, it would seem comical. I watched a "trainer" on video do an exercise on the "Total Gym" and then I'd pause it and I'd do the same. Sometimes I'd have to go back and watch it again to make sure I got it right, then try it again. For 13 sets, I think. It took me more than an hour to get through all of them, watching the video one by one, then doing it. But it felt so awesome!!! My body felt tighter immediately. I took a mini walk today mid-day, and I have eaten sensibly. That includes an apple, a large spinach salad for lunch, a couple of small pieces of artisan pizza, and stir fry for dinner. I think twice a week on the Total Gym won't be enough for me. It's fun and I'll probably do at least SOMETHING everyday.
Do you have your menu planned for your guests? I came across a recipe in this week's Spokesman Review's food Section that caught my eye. No sugar dessert! I am going to try it, and you may want to serve it for your guests!
Spiced Plum Crisp
For the crisp topping:
1/2 teas. cinnamon
1/4 teas. ground ginger
1/4 teas. nutmeg
1/8 teas. ground cloves
1/8 teas. allspice
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 tablespoon honey
3/4 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup sliced almonds
For the yogurt topping:
5.3 oz container plain fat-free Greek yogurt
1 teas. honey
Several drops of almond extract
For the plums:
6 plums, quartered and pitted
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons water
Pinch of salt
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Juice of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 orange
cornstarch
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl whisk together the spices, salt, oil, and honey. Add the oats and almonds, then toss to coat evenly. Spread the mixture evenly over the prepared baking sheet and bak for 10 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring once or twice.
Meanwhile make the yogurt topping. In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt, honey, and almond extract. Set aside.
In a large skillet, combine the plums, honey, water, salt, lemon zest, and orange zest. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the plums are just softened, about 10 minutes.
In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, orange juice, and cornstarch. Stir into the plums and bring up to a simmer for 1 minute, or until the juices are thickened.
Spoon the warm plums into individual bowls, topping each with some of the crisp topping and a spoonful of the yogurt topping. Serve immediately.
Yield: 6 servings
(Or, just eat the fresh plums, and forget about cooking. - That's not in the newspaper!)
When I got home tonight I discovered that my wallet was not in my purse! I used it to get on the bus, and I must have become distracted, and had it on my lap the entire ride. I suspect that when I stood up, it dropped to the floor and I didn't notice. I immediately called them, a dispatcher called the driver, and he said that he saw no wallet. I am hopeful that it fell under the seat and he just didn't notice it. But in the meantime I had to call my bank and cancel my debit cards. So that was not a good end to my day. Maybe I am too naive, but I know that there ARE good people who do the right thing. I hope whoever finds it will turn it in and it will be in lost and found for me. We'll see. That is what I would do.
I started my exercise workout this morning! I am very jazzed about it but I'm sure if you could have been a fly on the wall observing, it would seem comical. I watched a "trainer" on video do an exercise on the "Total Gym" and then I'd pause it and I'd do the same. Sometimes I'd have to go back and watch it again to make sure I got it right, then try it again. For 13 sets, I think. It took me more than an hour to get through all of them, watching the video one by one, then doing it. But it felt so awesome!!! My body felt tighter immediately. I took a mini walk today mid-day, and I have eaten sensibly. That includes an apple, a large spinach salad for lunch, a couple of small pieces of artisan pizza, and stir fry for dinner. I think twice a week on the Total Gym won't be enough for me. It's fun and I'll probably do at least SOMETHING everyday.
Do you have your menu planned for your guests? I came across a recipe in this week's Spokesman Review's food Section that caught my eye. No sugar dessert! I am going to try it, and you may want to serve it for your guests!
Spiced Plum Crisp
For the crisp topping:
1/2 teas. cinnamon
1/4 teas. ground ginger
1/4 teas. nutmeg
1/8 teas. ground cloves
1/8 teas. allspice
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 tablespoon honey
3/4 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup sliced almonds
For the yogurt topping:
5.3 oz container plain fat-free Greek yogurt
1 teas. honey
Several drops of almond extract
For the plums:
6 plums, quartered and pitted
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons water
Pinch of salt
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Juice of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 orange
cornstarch
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl whisk together the spices, salt, oil, and honey. Add the oats and almonds, then toss to coat evenly. Spread the mixture evenly over the prepared baking sheet and bak for 10 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring once or twice.
Meanwhile make the yogurt topping. In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt, honey, and almond extract. Set aside.
In a large skillet, combine the plums, honey, water, salt, lemon zest, and orange zest. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the plums are just softened, about 10 minutes.
In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, orange juice, and cornstarch. Stir into the plums and bring up to a simmer for 1 minute, or until the juices are thickened.
Spoon the warm plums into individual bowls, topping each with some of the crisp topping and a spoonful of the yogurt topping. Serve immediately.
Yield: 6 servings
(Or, just eat the fresh plums, and forget about cooking. - That's not in the newspaper!)
When I got home tonight I discovered that my wallet was not in my purse! I used it to get on the bus, and I must have become distracted, and had it on my lap the entire ride. I suspect that when I stood up, it dropped to the floor and I didn't notice. I immediately called them, a dispatcher called the driver, and he said that he saw no wallet. I am hopeful that it fell under the seat and he just didn't notice it. But in the meantime I had to call my bank and cancel my debit cards. So that was not a good end to my day. Maybe I am too naive, but I know that there ARE good people who do the right thing. I hope whoever finds it will turn it in and it will be in lost and found for me. We'll see. That is what I would do.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Mom...My Ultimate Example
I remember when I just had Addy and Mom was visiting to help....and she was GREAT help. She would make me the yummiest meals. Spinach, tomato, cucumber sandwiches on whole wheat bread. Stir fry with a million and one veggies...mmm, everything tastes better when Mom makes it. I love how she effortlessly eats healthy. Maybe its that she has no kids at home, thus less temptations. Or maybe she's older and wiser, or maybe she just doesn't want the consequences of eating poorly. My guess, its all three and probably more reasons than that. I'm so glad MOM'S in this too! We need you Mom! And great exercise goals...you can do it!
I totally forgot to share my exercise goals. Exercising is something that I LOVE to do and makes me a better Mom, wife and friend. I am running the same 20k(12.4 miles) in June that I run every year. I'm hoping to get my best time. This will be the 4th time in 5 years. I had to skip the year Piper was born three days earlier. I'm also planning on the same 1/2 marathon that I do here in DSM. That one is in October. So...anyway, realistically I'm shooting for 4-5days a week. Running and also resistance training.
On another note, my friend Jessica challenged her family to not watch TV for 30 days and they made a paper chain for the 30 days. I'm TOTALLY doing that. But for me....one link for every pound lost! I'm thrilled about it. I don't get out much. :)
Alrighty...it's 1:40 and I have officially given up sugar for over 12 hours!!! Go me, right? The real test will be this weekend when we have a BUNCH of Kevin's family here to celebrate birthdays. I can do it right? Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels. I'll be chanting.
Have a fabulous day! I need to figure out what deliciously unhealthy recipes I'm going to be making for my company. :)
Jen
I totally forgot to share my exercise goals. Exercising is something that I LOVE to do and makes me a better Mom, wife and friend. I am running the same 20k(12.4 miles) in June that I run every year. I'm hoping to get my best time. This will be the 4th time in 5 years. I had to skip the year Piper was born three days earlier. I'm also planning on the same 1/2 marathon that I do here in DSM. That one is in October. So...anyway, realistically I'm shooting for 4-5days a week. Running and also resistance training.
On another note, my friend Jessica challenged her family to not watch TV for 30 days and they made a paper chain for the 30 days. I'm TOTALLY doing that. But for me....one link for every pound lost! I'm thrilled about it. I don't get out much. :)
Alrighty...it's 1:40 and I have officially given up sugar for over 12 hours!!! Go me, right? The real test will be this weekend when we have a BUNCH of Kevin's family here to celebrate birthdays. I can do it right? Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels. I'll be chanting.
Have a fabulous day! I need to figure out what deliciously unhealthy recipes I'm going to be making for my company. :)
Jen
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