My mission has begun! I found the most AMAZING, BESTEST, INSPIRING & INFORMATIVE blog today and I am HOOKED!!! 100 Days of Real Food is a blog that a lady did with her family back in 2010. The challenged themselves to eat REAL food (no preservatives, additives, fake crap, PERIOD) for 100 days. The blog has recipes, tips, tricks, ideas and inspiration for anyone who may even be interested in changing their eating habits. After the 100 days was up, they decided to do the same thing but 100 Days of Real Food on a Budget. I am floored that I found this today! You have to check it out. It is shocking how much food is out there that is marketed as "good for you" but it's actually horrible! That's why we need to start eating more REAL food!
I was already planning on doing a "real food cleanse" that I wrote about yesterday and today I started. I stayed on track of the meal plan for the week except for one thing: I didn't pay attention to the time and didn't have enough time to cook the chicken that was needed for my lunch today. So instead, I had 1/2 cup cottage cheese, 1 apple, 1 oz cheese, 1 celery stick w/ 1 tbl natural peanut butter and water. Our dinner tonight was delicious! A creamy asparagus soup. It was soooo easy and really tasty.
I went to Zumba tonight and man, what a great workout! I was dripping sweat on the floor. Sweat was hanging from my eyelashes! My ARMS were dripping sweat! AMAZING!!! Michelle, our instructor for the evening, took a moment before class started to give a "pep" talk to the class. She reminded me of a really excited preacher giving a really exciting sermon to a flock of willing followers. She spoke about setting goals and having obstacles getting in your way. Instead of getting discouraged and giving up, look at those obstacles and get excited! Get excited by the fact that the enemy is taking all the shots he can at you and will do whatever he can to get you off course. If the enemy is trying soooo hard to get you off course, that means you're on the right path! So jump that hurdle, climb that mountain and keep on trudging...you have a GOAL to reach! I needed to hear those words today. It's amazing how those messages come right at the right time. :-) AMAZING!
Funny story time: Tonight, while we were eating dinner, Ross (who's 1) was chowing down and all of a sudden, he burped. A loud, powerful burp! One Mommy would be proud of. Then, he said "WHOA!!!" and his eyes were really big because it shocked him. It was sooo funny and Phil and I just laughed and laughed.
Disturbing story time: How often do you clean your makeup brushes? Once a week? Once a month? Clean makeup brushes? What? Why would I do that, you ask? Well let me be honest here: I have NEVER fully cleaned my makeup brushes. Ewwww is right! But last night, as I was complaining about my skin being so bad, I had a thought. "Maybe it's your makeup brushes?" So, I went straight to my bathroom, grabbed some baby wash and was horrified (or terrified, as Addy would say)! My entire sink was a brownish/pinkish mess. There was rivers of color coming out of the brushes. AHHHHH!!! So, after much time spent washing and rinsing and washing and rinsing again, the water ran clear. I shook them out and laid them down wondering if this would help. This morning, when I went to apply my face, I noticed a HUGE difference!!! Not in my skin, but in the light, feathery, soft feel of the bristles brushing my makeup on. I was happy and grossed out at the same time! YUCK! All those YEARS of makeup, facial oil, moisturizer, blah, blah, blah...getting spread around my face every day! So...here's my lesson for today: Go and wash your makeup brushes NOW!!! Baby wash, a gentle shampoo, or Cetaphil should do the trick just fine. Just be sure to rinse well and don't disturb the bristles too much (especially if they are natural). Shake out the excess water and lay w/ the bristled end off the counter (I placed mine on a comb). I'm assuming now, after this experiment, that this is part of my breakout problems. So, hoping to report back soon that I see a difference. :-)
Off for a snack I go. Please, go check out the 100 Days of Real Food blog. It's inspiring and a great challenge! Love to all!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
Reflections...
Sorry friends that I have been MIA a lot lately. I just haven't felt like keeping you updated on my fizzling enthusiasm for my journey. I don't know what it was, but I'm sure it has a lot to do with the word "diet." Diets, to me, mean temporary, harsh, un-bending, no fun! So, yes, I did well while on the South Beach Diet...but after that initial 2 weeks was up and my weight loss slowed and then stopped and then went up by 3 lbs..ugh!...I was at a stand still. Mentally, I'm frustrated and disappointed with myself. Physically, I'm good. My elbow doesn't hurt anymore, but I can tell I need to hit the gym more. Spiritually, I'm flat. I feel partially defeated.
This past week and a half I've really been studying and researching "clean eating." I don't want to diet, but I HAVE to change the way my family and I eat. I came across a really great magazine called, go figure, Clean Eating. I read it till 12:30 this morning and it lit a fire in me! There are shopping lists, brands, tips, tricks, and even a fantastic list from Kashi that shows us a breakdown of what to avoid when reading ingredients lists. It's called the Kashi Ingredient Decoder. Go check it out! Anyways, I am determined to break my habit (or addiction) to processed foods. I went to Trader Joes today and purchased all sorts of "clean" food and I've got my weekly menu all set up for this week, starting tomorrow. Wanna see what I'll be eating? I got it from the Clean Eating magazine but made a few minor changes (mostly having to do with nuts...I'm still not ok with eating walnuts & sesame seeds...yuck!).
This past week and a half I've really been studying and researching "clean eating." I don't want to diet, but I HAVE to change the way my family and I eat. I came across a really great magazine called, go figure, Clean Eating. I read it till 12:30 this morning and it lit a fire in me! There are shopping lists, brands, tips, tricks, and even a fantastic list from Kashi that shows us a breakdown of what to avoid when reading ingredients lists. It's called the Kashi Ingredient Decoder. Go check it out! Anyways, I am determined to break my habit (or addiction) to processed foods. I went to Trader Joes today and purchased all sorts of "clean" food and I've got my weekly menu all set up for this week, starting tomorrow. Wanna see what I'll be eating? I got it from the Clean Eating magazine but made a few minor changes (mostly having to do with nuts...I'm still not ok with eating walnuts & sesame seeds...yuck!).
Tuesday:
AM: ¾ C Granola w/ ½ c low fat yogurt & 1 sliced banana. ½ c low fat milk
Snack: 1 c Greek yogurt w/ 1 c frozen raspberries, blended
Lunch: Almond Butter Chicken Salad - & 1 granola bar 4 oz. chopped broiled chicken breast, 15 halved grapes, ½ c chopped celery, 1 tbls chopped almonds tossed with 2 tbl almond butter, 1 tbl water, 2 tsp. apple cider vinegar & ½ tsp. maple syrup. .
Snack: 5 carrot sticks, 5 celery sticks, 2 oz. Swiss cheese
Dinner: 1 serving Creamy Asparagus Soup (pg. 82) & 1 med baked sweet potato
Wednesday:
AM: 1 cup cooked oatmeal with ½ c milk, 1 chopped pear & 1 tsp. maple syrup
Snack: 1 sliced kiwi & 1 oz. almonds
Lunch: Turkey Asparagus Roll-ups – 4 – 1oz slices turkey breast, each rolled up with 1 oz. Swiss cheese & 1 small cooked asparagus spear & 1 banana.
Snack: 1 sliced apple with 2 tbl almond butter & 1 c milk.
Dinner: 1 serving steak salad (pg. 78)
Thursday:
AM: 1 serving Choco Raspberry Vanilla smoothie –Puree 1 cup frozen raspberries, ½ tsp. vanilla, ½ c Greek yogurt, 1 ½ c milk & 2 oz. chocolate protein powder.
Snack: ½ c cottage cheese, ½ c frozen mixed fruit, 1 tsp. maple syrup, 1tbl almonds; 1 banana
Lunch: Crab Waldorf Salad: 2 oz. crab mixed with ½ c Greek yogurt, ½ c chopped apple, ¼ c chopped celery & ¼ c chopped almonds. With ½ c sliced cucumber on the side.
Snack: 15 grapes & 2 Laughing Cow Light Blue Cheese wedges
Dinner: 4 oz. broiled chicken breast topped with 1 tbl Arugula Pesto (puree 2 cups arugula w/ 7 almonds, 1 clove garlic, 1 tbl EVOO & 1 tbl water), ½ oz. peeled & sliced avocado & squeeze of lemon. 1 medium baked sweet potato. 1 cup cooked, chopped broccoli.
Friday:
AM: 1 poached egg topped with 1 oz. crab meat & 1 cup sautéed arugula, served on 1 slice of multigrain bread w/ 1 slice of lemon.
Snack: 1 granola bar & 6 celery sticks
Lunch: 2 cups leftover creamy asparagus soup, topped with 2 oz. shredded Swiss cheese & 1 cup cooked chickpeas. 1 slice multigrain bread.
Snack: 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce w/ ½ c sliced cucumber, 3 halved cherry tomatoes, 10 almonds, 1 tsp. EVOO & 2 tbl apple cider vinegar.
Dinner: Pepper Steak: 4 oz. beef tenderloin sautéed w/ 1 tsp. olive oil & 1 cup sliced red bell pepper & 1 cup sliced onion. 15 grapes
Saturday:
AM: ¾ c granola w/ ½ c yogurt & 1 sliced banana
Snack: 1 serving Choco Raspberry Vanilla Smoothie (leftovers)
Lunch: 4 oz. turkey slices; 1 laughing cow blue cheese wedge, 6 carrot sticks, 6 celery sticks, 1 oz. almonds.
Snack: Chickpea Salad: 2 cups chopped iceberg, ½ c avocado, and ½ c chickpeas w/ black peppercorn yogurt dressing (leftovers from steak salad).
Dinner: 4 oz. broiled tilapia w/ a squeeze of lemon, 1 med baked white potato topped w/ 2 tbl arugula pesto (leftovers), 1 cup cooked, chopped broccoli, 6 chopped asparagus spears, 1 tsp. EVOO & 1 tsp. lemon juice
Sunday:
AM: 1 cup cooked oatmeal w/ 1 tbl almond butter & ½ c mixed frozen fruit, thawed
Snack: ½ mashed banana, ½ c Greek yogurt, 2 tbl almonds
Lunch: Cheesesteaks: 3 oz. beef tenderloin sautéed in 1 tsp. olive oil & ½ c sliced onion. Top with 1 oz. Swiss cheese and place between 2 slices of multigrain bread. 1 apple
Snack: 1 granola bar & 6 carrot sticks
Dinner: 2 cups cooked penne pasta sautéed w/ 1 tsp. olive oil, 1 c sliced mushrooms & 3 oz. ground pork tenderloin. Top w/ ¾ cup creamy asparagus soup & 1 tsp. Parmesan.
Monday:
AM: 2 egg whites scrambled w/ 1 tsp. olive oil, ½ cup sliced mushrooms, ¼ cup chopped onion & 4 cherry tomatoes; 2 slices of toasted multigrain bread
Snack: 15 grapes, 1 oz. almonds
Lunch: 1 black bean veggie burger topped w/ ½ cup avocado , 2 tbl black peppercorn dressing, & 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce.
Snack: 2 oz. Swiss cheese, sliced kiwi & ½ banana
Dinner: 4 oz. broiled chicken breast, cubed, mixed w/ 1 cup chopped cooked broccoli, 1 cup cooked brown rice, ½ cup cooked chickpeas, ½ tsp. dried oregano & squeeze of ½ lemon
This is a partial "cleanse" for the purpose of getting all preservatives and additives out of your body. All foods are natural or "clean" and organic. I'm really excited to start this and hoping I can focus and change my brain. I'm really looking forward to getting my new books any day this week from Michael Pollan. So, if you pray, please pray for me to have the strength, guidance, and perseverance to keep on this path to be healthy and clean!
I also purchased new facial cleanser from Burt's Bees today. I've been having some really bad skin issues lately. For years, I've been using Neutrogena facial cleanser and just recently I started using their night cream and daily moisturizer and I've noticed a huge change in my skin. And not in a good way! Breaking out really badly, dry, & red blotches. I'm sure part of that is my diet but I really noticed a difference when I changed moisturizer. So I purchased new cleanser, toner, daily & nightly moisturizer from Burt's Bees. Hoping that helps!
Off to Zumba I go!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Tuesday...Spring has SPRUNG!!!
Spring is here!!!!!
Woo hoo!!! Today was amazing! Sun shining, cleaning done, fast pitch game watched (sorry Highclimbers...), headache gone and Zumba danced!
I also ordered 3 new books today. All from Michael Pollan. He is an amazing author and food advocate. I can't wait to get these books (The Omnivores Dilemma, Food Rules & In Defense of Food) and dive into them to get more insight on our crappy food industry and how to learn to eat better. I really like how he is not a vegan, he still enjoys meat, but chooses to eat meat that he KNOWS is "farmed" responsibly and respectfully. Will be talking about these books more as I get them and read them. Just warning you! :-)
Zumba class was outstanding tonight! Sweaty is an understatement! I have rivulets of sweat dripping off my forehead and down my chest; YES! I am really excited to go walking tomorrow w/ Gretch before going to Zumba. Thankful for my Mom who is taking my kids for a couple hours.
I had more stuff I wanted to write about, but those thoughts have escaped my brain for the evening. Biggest Loser is on right now and I'm going to go watch it. Tomorrow is another busy day starting off at the hospital getting more X-Rays for Ross. Gotta check that collarbone to see how it's coming together. He seems to be doing really well.
As a side note, this morning, Ross said "NanaPleMama!" He loves his bananas! :-)
Monday, April 18, 2011
Monday...here we go!
Yay! Monday is coming to a close, but it was a good day! Woke up to a bright & shining sun with crystal clear blue skies! It was very much needed to wake up to that dose of happiness. Took the kiddos to the park and played on the swings, tossed some gravel, and taught Ross how to jump on the bouncy bridge. We had a blast! Ross also learned how to say "Woohoo!" while swinging on Mom's lap. :-) It was really cute!
While the kids took a nap, I took some time to watch a movie on Hulu. If you've never used Hulu before, it's a free service that lets you watch TV episodes and movies. It's amazing!!! I ended up watching "Super Size Me." I will NEVER feed my children fast food again! Now, let me point out, I very rarely did take them there anyways. But never again! It is now banned from our household. The cycle will be broken. Our human population is getting sicker and sicker every day and we have got to do something about it. It blows my mind how a box of processed food can be so much cheaper than fresh fruit and veggies. I understand why it's that way, but our government needs to make that change NOW! We cannot keep eating like this! Our school systems are failing our children by feeding them crap for lunch (and sometimes breakfast). We have to do something about this. But what? What can we do? I know what I'm going to do. I will strictly limit processed food in my house from here on out. I'm a good cook, love to do it, have the time and my family's health is WORTH the effort. I'm going to ask you to see where you can help your family. Cook dinner every night for a week. Make your hubby and/or kids lunch to take to work/school. Don't buy into the packaged sugar crap! I'm on a mission to also stop using Ziploc bags! Use re-usable containers. Carrots, strawberries, leftover dinner, sandwiches, hummus, bell peppers, yogurt, homemade cookies (what a concept!), hard boiled eggs,...I could keep going. There are some options for lunches where you don't have to buy little bags of chips or cookies. We are killing ourselves people!
It really pisses me off that these massive food companies are making billions upon billions of dollars to poison us. I also, 100 %, agree that we are CHOOSING to let these companies ruin our lives. WE are the ones that buy the food, overeat, become addicted and fail to change. WE are the ones who allow this crap into our homes. WE are the ones who are killing ourselves. But I also think that the companies need to be responsible enough to show how bad this food is for us. There are a lot of stupid people out there who think they can eat whatever they want and will be fine. Unfortunately, this attitude is taking it's toll on us as a society.
I am rambling and I'm on a huge soapbox. But I'm also really angry with myself for falling prey to horrible eating habits and not caring about myself enough to choose a better option. I'm done!
Any who...stepping off my soapbox...I went to Zumba tonight and had a great class! I plan to go every night this week.
Addy and I also got Easter eggs colored this evening. She is waiting, as patiently as a 3 year old can, for them to dry so she can cover them in stickers.
Tomorrow is going to be a busy day but I just hope the sun is out when I wake up! Have a great Tuesday everyone.
While the kids took a nap, I took some time to watch a movie on Hulu. If you've never used Hulu before, it's a free service that lets you watch TV episodes and movies. It's amazing!!! I ended up watching "Super Size Me." I will NEVER feed my children fast food again! Now, let me point out, I very rarely did take them there anyways. But never again! It is now banned from our household. The cycle will be broken. Our human population is getting sicker and sicker every day and we have got to do something about it. It blows my mind how a box of processed food can be so much cheaper than fresh fruit and veggies. I understand why it's that way, but our government needs to make that change NOW! We cannot keep eating like this! Our school systems are failing our children by feeding them crap for lunch (and sometimes breakfast). We have to do something about this. But what? What can we do? I know what I'm going to do. I will strictly limit processed food in my house from here on out. I'm a good cook, love to do it, have the time and my family's health is WORTH the effort. I'm going to ask you to see where you can help your family. Cook dinner every night for a week. Make your hubby and/or kids lunch to take to work/school. Don't buy into the packaged sugar crap! I'm on a mission to also stop using Ziploc bags! Use re-usable containers. Carrots, strawberries, leftover dinner, sandwiches, hummus, bell peppers, yogurt, homemade cookies (what a concept!), hard boiled eggs,...I could keep going. There are some options for lunches where you don't have to buy little bags of chips or cookies. We are killing ourselves people!
It really pisses me off that these massive food companies are making billions upon billions of dollars to poison us. I also, 100 %, agree that we are CHOOSING to let these companies ruin our lives. WE are the ones that buy the food, overeat, become addicted and fail to change. WE are the ones who allow this crap into our homes. WE are the ones who are killing ourselves. But I also think that the companies need to be responsible enough to show how bad this food is for us. There are a lot of stupid people out there who think they can eat whatever they want and will be fine. Unfortunately, this attitude is taking it's toll on us as a society.
I am rambling and I'm on a huge soapbox. But I'm also really angry with myself for falling prey to horrible eating habits and not caring about myself enough to choose a better option. I'm done!
Any who...stepping off my soapbox...I went to Zumba tonight and had a great class! I plan to go every night this week.
Addy and I also got Easter eggs colored this evening. She is waiting, as patiently as a 3 year old can, for them to dry so she can cover them in stickers.
Tomorrow is going to be a busy day but I just hope the sun is out when I wake up! Have a great Tuesday everyone.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Zumba...ay Papi!
Yes!!! I made it to Zumba tonight and oh how I missed it! It's amazing how you can get lost for 1 hour dancing to fun music and dripping sweat the whole time. I LOVE IT!!! If you ever want to try Zumba...come on a Thursday night. It's not crowded, a little slower paced and super fun! Do it!
Today we had our buddy Blake here. He and Addy butted heads ALLLLLLL DAYYYY LONGGGGG!!!! And then you add Ross in there screaming and trying to hit them...oy vey! Needless to say today was LOUD!!! But, I was so thankful for the dinner delivery from the M.O.P.S ladies! They're doing a fundraiser for a trip to Nashville. I was more than happy to "donate" to these wonderful women and was ever so grateful to receive some delicious chicken enchiladas for dinner. :-) So at least I didn't have to worry about dinner tonight.
Time to hop in the shower before "Grey's Anatomy" starts in 1/2 hr! Hope everyone has a fantastic Friday!!!
Today we had our buddy Blake here. He and Addy butted heads ALLLLLLL DAYYYY LONGGGGG!!!! And then you add Ross in there screaming and trying to hit them...oy vey! Needless to say today was LOUD!!! But, I was so thankful for the dinner delivery from the M.O.P.S ladies! They're doing a fundraiser for a trip to Nashville. I was more than happy to "donate" to these wonderful women and was ever so grateful to receive some delicious chicken enchiladas for dinner. :-) So at least I didn't have to worry about dinner tonight.
Time to hop in the shower before "Grey's Anatomy" starts in 1/2 hr! Hope everyone has a fantastic Friday!!!
Thursday weigh in day! ****Inches lost have been added!****
Good morning! I'm sitting here, eating my eggs & turkey sausage, wondering what to write about today. Oh yes, it's weigh in day! I am absolutely shocked at what the scale told me! Now...let me back up a little....
This past week has been a drag. I don't know if I'm depressed/stressed/sick or what, but I have had no motivation plus major stomach issues (I won't go into details). I haven't been to the gym all week and have been feeling really crummy. Haven't been eating well (if at all) and just plain feeling down. I've decided it's time for a detox. I need to go away for a weekend, have some "me" time and detox from everything in my body. I've been reading up on "weekend" detox programs and the general rule is: be by yourself, lots of peace and quiet, and eat a vegetarian & organic diet. Now, I just need to find a place where I can go away for a weekend by myself! :-/
Ok, back to the weigh in. I stepped on the scale this morning, dreading the "truth." And at first, I was dumbfounded! Shocked! Appalled! I thought it read *up 7 lbs!*...but once I really looked at the number and counted correctly, I'm down 3 lbs! THREE POUNDS!!! How did this happen? I didn't even work out? I ate crap! But then I remembered, I really hadn't eaten much of anything all week because I had been feeling sick. Hmmm...
So, yes, I'm down 3 lbs this week and I'm "happy" but not happy at the same time. Yes, 3 lbs is great! But I didn't work for those 3 lbs. Oh well, I gotta take it! 19 lbs down, 11 to go for my first goal of 30 lbs!
********************
I almost forgot!!! I measured myself this morning! In one month I have lost the following:
2 inches in my belly!
1 inch on my hips
1 inch from each thigh
1 inch from each bicep
1 inch from each calf
*my bust...I wore a "boob smoosher" when measuring the first time...but if I were to guess, I'd say I've lost 1 inch.
I am super excited about these losses!!!
This past week has been a drag. I don't know if I'm depressed/stressed/sick or what, but I have had no motivation plus major stomach issues (I won't go into details). I haven't been to the gym all week and have been feeling really crummy. Haven't been eating well (if at all) and just plain feeling down. I've decided it's time for a detox. I need to go away for a weekend, have some "me" time and detox from everything in my body. I've been reading up on "weekend" detox programs and the general rule is: be by yourself, lots of peace and quiet, and eat a vegetarian & organic diet. Now, I just need to find a place where I can go away for a weekend by myself! :-/
Ok, back to the weigh in. I stepped on the scale this morning, dreading the "truth." And at first, I was dumbfounded! Shocked! Appalled! I thought it read *up 7 lbs!*...but once I really looked at the number and counted correctly, I'm down 3 lbs! THREE POUNDS!!! How did this happen? I didn't even work out? I ate crap! But then I remembered, I really hadn't eaten much of anything all week because I had been feeling sick. Hmmm...
So, yes, I'm down 3 lbs this week and I'm "happy" but not happy at the same time. Yes, 3 lbs is great! But I didn't work for those 3 lbs. Oh well, I gotta take it! 19 lbs down, 11 to go for my first goal of 30 lbs!
********************
I almost forgot!!! I measured myself this morning! In one month I have lost the following:
2 inches in my belly!
1 inch on my hips
1 inch from each thigh
1 inch from each bicep
1 inch from each calf
*my bust...I wore a "boob smoosher" when measuring the first time...but if I were to guess, I'd say I've lost 1 inch.
I am super excited about these losses!!!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
I'm back!
Flip, flop. Flip, flop. That's been the way my mind is going these past few days. '
I'm going to the gym tonight for both body cut & zumba and can't wait. I'm a little nervous about my elbow because it's still a little sore, but I have to get back out there.
Last night for dinner, we had turkey burgers and salad. It makes me laugh (in my head) that my hubby thinks he's eating pork chops! HAHAHA I am so not going to tell him! But I'm sure he'll read it in this post! Sorry Phil! But you know you love 'em. :-)
This morning, I had eggs w/ Ross. Addy doesn't like eggs, so she had some of my Kashi cereal. I need to figure out lunch...probably some salad w/ hard boiled eggs. Dinner will be pork loin strips with veggies (stir fry style). Have to make it early enough so I can go to the gym at 5:30. Eating dinner at 4:30 is not "normal" for me...so I probably will eat more when I get home from the gym.
I've started a new "system" for keeping up on my household chores. I joined an online club (FREE!) called The Fly Lady. I read about her a few years ago and she's got some great info and support to "learn" how to clean your house. I know how to clean my house, I just get overwhelmed, discouraged and frustrated so then I let it go for a bit then get mad all over again. The Fly Lady gives you daily routines to keep up with the mess. Every night before you go to bed, you clean your sink. Now, this may sound simple and maybe even strange, but if you've never done it, try it and see how wonderful it is to wake up to a bright, shiny, empty sink! It's magical!!! Little things like that that make a huge impact.
Ross Man is taking a nap and as soon as he wakes up, we're off to the grocery store. Gotta get workin' on our weekly menu. Hope everyone has a great day! More tonight after class!
I'm going to the gym tonight for both body cut & zumba and can't wait. I'm a little nervous about my elbow because it's still a little sore, but I have to get back out there.
Last night for dinner, we had turkey burgers and salad. It makes me laugh (in my head) that my hubby thinks he's eating pork chops! HAHAHA I am so not going to tell him! But I'm sure he'll read it in this post! Sorry Phil! But you know you love 'em. :-)
This morning, I had eggs w/ Ross. Addy doesn't like eggs, so she had some of my Kashi cereal. I need to figure out lunch...probably some salad w/ hard boiled eggs. Dinner will be pork loin strips with veggies (stir fry style). Have to make it early enough so I can go to the gym at 5:30. Eating dinner at 4:30 is not "normal" for me...so I probably will eat more when I get home from the gym.
I've started a new "system" for keeping up on my household chores. I joined an online club (FREE!) called The Fly Lady. I read about her a few years ago and she's got some great info and support to "learn" how to clean your house. I know how to clean my house, I just get overwhelmed, discouraged and frustrated so then I let it go for a bit then get mad all over again. The Fly Lady gives you daily routines to keep up with the mess. Every night before you go to bed, you clean your sink. Now, this may sound simple and maybe even strange, but if you've never done it, try it and see how wonderful it is to wake up to a bright, shiny, empty sink! It's magical!!! Little things like that that make a huge impact.
Ross Man is taking a nap and as soon as he wakes up, we're off to the grocery store. Gotta get workin' on our weekly menu. Hope everyone has a great day! More tonight after class!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
La-de-dah-de-dahhhhhh
Ok, so I have to be honest. I'm not doing too hot. Physically, I'm fine. Emotionally, I'm ok. But the fire under my butt has burnt out and I feel lost. I just want to eat crap all the time and I don't care. Why? Why do I do this after I was doing sooooo amazingly well? Do you have the answers? Fill me in if you do.
I really want to get back on track but keep coming up w/ "excuses."
Tomorrow is Sunday and I'm going to start it as a new day. My goal for tomorrow: Drink 3 bottles of water (work out bottles). I've really been slacking on the "agua-purificada" (Shrek 4, Rumpelstiltskin anyone???) lately and definitely need to be drinking more. I drink it mostly when at the gym, but I know I need to be drinking it throughout the day.
My elbow is still bothering me. I can't extend my arm all the way without it hurting. Feels like a hot poker being forced into the end of my bicep and forearm. I'm wondering what I should do???
Ross is doing well with his collarbone injury. You can definitely see that it hurts him, especially when he tries to use it. And if he's not wearing his sling, he holds his arm closely to his side. It's amazing how a baby instinctively knows how to try and shield their body from pain. But then will run and jump around like a crazy person. :-)
Addy woke up from her nap today, complaining about her legs hurting. I told her it's because she's growing. She said "I don't want to grow anymore!" Poor baby. I'm sure that is part of the reason her legs hurt, but she also went for a very long walk today w/ my sister, Mom, and cousins. She was exhausted and took a 3 hour nap.
We had some wonderful friends over for dinner tonight. I made Shredded Beef Tacos and they were delicious! Check out the recipe; I promise you'll love them! I went to the tortilla factory downtown and bought fresh flour tortillas. They were nummy!
Speaking of "nummy," I have to wake up and go bake tomorrow. Time to go to bed!
Here's to me, getting back on track! *Cheers!*
I really want to get back on track but keep coming up w/ "excuses."
Tomorrow is Sunday and I'm going to start it as a new day. My goal for tomorrow: Drink 3 bottles of water (work out bottles). I've really been slacking on the "agua-purificada" (Shrek 4, Rumpelstiltskin anyone???) lately and definitely need to be drinking more. I drink it mostly when at the gym, but I know I need to be drinking it throughout the day.
My elbow is still bothering me. I can't extend my arm all the way without it hurting. Feels like a hot poker being forced into the end of my bicep and forearm. I'm wondering what I should do???
Ross is doing well with his collarbone injury. You can definitely see that it hurts him, especially when he tries to use it. And if he's not wearing his sling, he holds his arm closely to his side. It's amazing how a baby instinctively knows how to try and shield their body from pain. But then will run and jump around like a crazy person. :-)
Addy woke up from her nap today, complaining about her legs hurting. I told her it's because she's growing. She said "I don't want to grow anymore!" Poor baby. I'm sure that is part of the reason her legs hurt, but she also went for a very long walk today w/ my sister, Mom, and cousins. She was exhausted and took a 3 hour nap.
We had some wonderful friends over for dinner tonight. I made Shredded Beef Tacos and they were delicious! Check out the recipe; I promise you'll love them! I went to the tortilla factory downtown and bought fresh flour tortillas. They were nummy!
Speaking of "nummy," I have to wake up and go bake tomorrow. Time to go to bed!
Here's to me, getting back on track! *Cheers!*
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Big projects...
Ok, so Thursday's are my weigh in days. I was dreading the scale this morning because I knew how horrible I'd been this week. I was honestly surprised to see a 1lb gain. Not the fact that it was a gain, but the fact that it was only 1 lb! eeek! I was expecting more to be honest. :-/ I can't say I'm "happy" about it...but I guess not as disappointed as I could have been? Does this make sense?
Ross is doing pretty well today. He's still "learning" that it hurts when he uses that arm to push himself up, but he's handling it well. Took 2 good naps after his horrible night of sleep. Hoping tonight is better for him. He definitely needs his rest.
Got 2 coats of primer on the wood paneling in my dining room this afternoon. Tomorrow I'll do the paint. It's looking soooo different! I love it! Now I can't wait to do the other "matching" wall in the living room.
We had some amazing....AMAZING (I must emphasize this) sunshine today!!! Stunning! Spectacular! I had my sliding glass door open to the cool breeze. When Phil got home from work, we decided we needed to get some yard work done. I didn't go to the gym. But we got dog poop picked up (gag), the grass mowed (mmmmm), and he even got the frame of our raised bed garden moved to the opposite corner of the yard! YESSS! So now the painstaking job of moving all that dirt begins! It's supposed to be nice till Saturday night...so hoping we can get it moved in little spurts so I can get our garden going.
I can't wait to get pictures up of all the changes we have going on! I haven't been to the bookstore all week. Tomorrow is going to come all too early but I need to get my butt in gear and get down there EARLY!!!
Hoping Phil and I get to go see "Hanna" tomorrow while the babes stay w/ Gramma & Papa! Date night! Woo hoo!
Ross is doing pretty well today. He's still "learning" that it hurts when he uses that arm to push himself up, but he's handling it well. Took 2 good naps after his horrible night of sleep. Hoping tonight is better for him. He definitely needs his rest.
Got 2 coats of primer on the wood paneling in my dining room this afternoon. Tomorrow I'll do the paint. It's looking soooo different! I love it! Now I can't wait to do the other "matching" wall in the living room.
We had some amazing....AMAZING (I must emphasize this) sunshine today!!! Stunning! Spectacular! I had my sliding glass door open to the cool breeze. When Phil got home from work, we decided we needed to get some yard work done. I didn't go to the gym. But we got dog poop picked up (gag), the grass mowed (mmmmm), and he even got the frame of our raised bed garden moved to the opposite corner of the yard! YESSS! So now the painstaking job of moving all that dirt begins! It's supposed to be nice till Saturday night...so hoping we can get it moved in little spurts so I can get our garden going.
I can't wait to get pictures up of all the changes we have going on! I haven't been to the bookstore all week. Tomorrow is going to come all too early but I need to get my butt in gear and get down there EARLY!!!
Hoping Phil and I get to go see "Hanna" tomorrow while the babes stay w/ Gramma & Papa! Date night! Woo hoo!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Ouchie #2...
Today, we had an extremely rough day!
We started off great going to Grandma's house for lunch w/ my sister and her kids. Everything was going great until Ross decided it was time to take a fabulous tumble down the full flight of stairs. I ran to the base and found him face down, screaming into the carpeted landing. For a mili-second, my mind thought "should I move him?" but the my instincts just took over and I scooped him up. He was screaming, kicking his legs, sweating and sobbing. I was sick to my stomach. My head kept telling me, "he's ok, he's ok..." So I sat with him and rocked back and forth till he calmed down for a little bit. I thought he was fine, so I figured I'd try to feed him lunch. He started screaming when I picked him up. I rocked with him a little more, got him calmed down enough to doze off. Laid him on the chair to sleep, he woke up screaming! Then that little voice said "maybe he needs to go to the hospital?" Yep, off to the ER we go.
So thankful for friends and family who do what they can to help. My sister kept my niece then my best friend met her at work to take her for the rest of the day. Also thankful that kids falling down a flight of stairs and not having any "visible" injuries is a priority in the ER! There were soooo many people in the ER I was figuring we'd be in there all day. Nope, we got right in. The doctor came in a few minutes later. I thought, at first, it was his arm/wrist. Then while picking him up, I thought it was his ribs. When the Dr. checked him out, he thought it was his shoulder. After X-rays, it was determined that he fractured his collarbone! My poor baby!
There is really nothing they can do for him but give him Motrin and a sling (if he'll wear it). I couldn't help but take pictures of him with the sling. I think it's pretty darn cute!
He was a trooper wearing it today, but wasn't using it to it's full potential. He also didn't figure out that if he uses that arm to push him self up, it's going to hurt! He spent a LOT of time cuddling with me today and that never happens! I loved it!
All in all, it was a stressful day, but I am so thankful that the only thing wrong was a broken collarbone. It could have been so much worse!!!
Also, thankful for the blankey!
We started off great going to Grandma's house for lunch w/ my sister and her kids. Everything was going great until Ross decided it was time to take a fabulous tumble down the full flight of stairs. I ran to the base and found him face down, screaming into the carpeted landing. For a mili-second, my mind thought "should I move him?" but the my instincts just took over and I scooped him up. He was screaming, kicking his legs, sweating and sobbing. I was sick to my stomach. My head kept telling me, "he's ok, he's ok..." So I sat with him and rocked back and forth till he calmed down for a little bit. I thought he was fine, so I figured I'd try to feed him lunch. He started screaming when I picked him up. I rocked with him a little more, got him calmed down enough to doze off. Laid him on the chair to sleep, he woke up screaming! Then that little voice said "maybe he needs to go to the hospital?" Yep, off to the ER we go.
So thankful for friends and family who do what they can to help. My sister kept my niece then my best friend met her at work to take her for the rest of the day. Also thankful that kids falling down a flight of stairs and not having any "visible" injuries is a priority in the ER! There were soooo many people in the ER I was figuring we'd be in there all day. Nope, we got right in. The doctor came in a few minutes later. I thought, at first, it was his arm/wrist. Then while picking him up, I thought it was his ribs. When the Dr. checked him out, he thought it was his shoulder. After X-rays, it was determined that he fractured his collarbone! My poor baby!
There is really nothing they can do for him but give him Motrin and a sling (if he'll wear it). I couldn't help but take pictures of him with the sling. I think it's pretty darn cute!
All in all, it was a stressful day, but I am so thankful that the only thing wrong was a broken collarbone. It could have been so much worse!!!
Monday, April 4, 2011
Ouchie!
Well, I'm embarrassed to say this, but I hurt my elbow doing Zumba this morning. I think I over-extended it? It hurts so bad when I pinch my fingers together and/or try and grab something. For example: picking a wedgie! hehe Maybe TMI, but that's the best way to describe when it hurts the worst! haha Or, picking up Ross. But it also just aches. Bummer!
I did go to Zumba class tonight and had a great time. It was much needed! I was also lucky enough to have my picture taken AFTER class tonight for my membership photo! BOOOOO!!! I wish he would have warned me and I would have at least come in early and not covered in sweat! Oh well...I'm sure there's worse pics out there...*fingers crossed*
I'm sooooo excited because I started to paint my dining room today! I forgot to take a "before" picture, but I'll be sure to document the process so you can see the difference. I can't wait to have it finished and get on to the next project: cupboards! YAY! I also can't wait for my Dad to have some extra time so he can finish my counter tops. :-) We've lived here for almost 5 years and it's finally starting get some work done. :-)
Off to take some Tylenol. And maybe an ice pack? Ugh!
I did go to Zumba class tonight and had a great time. It was much needed! I was also lucky enough to have my picture taken AFTER class tonight for my membership photo! BOOOOO!!! I wish he would have warned me and I would have at least come in early and not covered in sweat! Oh well...I'm sure there's worse pics out there...*fingers crossed*
I'm sooooo excited because I started to paint my dining room today! I forgot to take a "before" picture, but I'll be sure to document the process so you can see the difference. I can't wait to have it finished and get on to the next project: cupboards! YAY! I also can't wait for my Dad to have some extra time so he can finish my counter tops. :-) We've lived here for almost 5 years and it's finally starting get some work done. :-)
Off to take some Tylenol. And maybe an ice pack? Ugh!
I'm back!
Good Monday morning! We spent the weekend up in Birch Bay, WA and got home late yesterday evening. I wish we could have stayed one more day, but oh well! We had a fantastic time and it was so very much needed for us to get away just the 4 of us. We left later than we wanted to on Friday. Phil's work schedule changed and we ended up leaving at 2:30pm to head north. Needless to say, Seattle traffic was a b*tch! Friday afternoon, pouring rain, blah, blah, blah...it "normally" should take a person about 4 hrs or so to get to our destination. This trip took us over 6! OUCH! The kids were troopers though and we only had to stop once to eat dinner! This is a view of what it took for Ross to not scream:
He loves his big sis! :-)
We stayed at a great condo right across the road from the bay. Our balcony had a wonderful view (from a distance, but still there).
The kids were really excited to be there. They had never been to a "hotel" or anything of the sort, so it was all new. Addy thought it was weird that there was a TV in our bedroom. haha
On Saturday, we made breakfast then we went for a drive around Birch Bay. We saw some amazing houses with spectacular views! We also went and explored the beach for a little bit. Unfortunately, I didn't come prepared and Addy was the only one w/ rubber boots, so we weren't able to explore as much as we wanted to. Plus, it was extremely windy and cold!
Besides being windy and cold, it was absolutely gorgeous on Saturday! The clouds drifted off around noon and we had sunshine!
After exploring got to be too cold, we went and had lunch then went back to our condo, changed into swimming suits (yes, I said SWIMMING suits!) and went down to the pool! We were so thankful that the pools were heated to bathtub temps! It was wonderful!
We had so much fun swimming and Ross was even brave enough to jump off the edge into the pool. He LOVED it!! This makes me really anxious for summer to be here for more swimming with the kids.
We tried to stay down at the beach after dinner for the sunset, but it was just too windy and cold. So I was able to get a couple of good shots, but the sky turned pink and we enjoyed it from our condo.
We had a great time this weekend and we are looking forward to more mini vacations this summer.
Now, on to my confessional time:
Oh boy did I fall off the bandwagon this weekend! I'm pretty sure I gained 5 lbs back and I'm not even joking. We did not eat well (healthy) this weekend at all. Snacks, treats, etc...and I'm a little sad about that fact, but it's ok. I'm back on today and will work really hard so that by Thursday, I should see some loss!
I woke up this morning and did Zumba in my living room. I purchased the Zumba DVD set awhile back and I hope to get started using it again. Do you think doing Zumba twice a day will be bad? Ehhh...I'll do it this week and see where it gets me. I also figure that if I can't make it to the gym at night, at least I've got some sweat time in.
I'm going to start back onto the first 2 week program of South Beach. I went crazy this weekend and need to get back on track. So this morning, I made a yummy omelet with asparagus and lite cream cheese. It was delicious!!!
The rain is really starting to wear on me. I got a dose of sunshine this weekend, but it wasn't around for long enough. I need a FULL weekend of dry, sunny weather!!! I'm in desperate need to get my garden in order. We need to get it moved to the other corner of the yard and get it planted. I'm going to get my seeds started this week. Produce prices are killing me so I will be extra thankful for a nice garden this year! Last year was horrible!
Ok, I think this post is long enough. I hope everyone has a great day!
We stayed at a great condo right across the road from the bay. Our balcony had a wonderful view (from a distance, but still there).
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| Oh boy...what did they find? |
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| A tiny crab!!! |
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| Family photo! |
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| Being out of the pool was COLD! |
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| She loves Daddy's shoes. |
Now, on to my confessional time:
Oh boy did I fall off the bandwagon this weekend! I'm pretty sure I gained 5 lbs back and I'm not even joking. We did not eat well (healthy) this weekend at all. Snacks, treats, etc...and I'm a little sad about that fact, but it's ok. I'm back on today and will work really hard so that by Thursday, I should see some loss!
I woke up this morning and did Zumba in my living room. I purchased the Zumba DVD set awhile back and I hope to get started using it again. Do you think doing Zumba twice a day will be bad? Ehhh...I'll do it this week and see where it gets me. I also figure that if I can't make it to the gym at night, at least I've got some sweat time in.
I'm going to start back onto the first 2 week program of South Beach. I went crazy this weekend and need to get back on track. So this morning, I made a yummy omelet with asparagus and lite cream cheese. It was delicious!!!
The rain is really starting to wear on me. I got a dose of sunshine this weekend, but it wasn't around for long enough. I need a FULL weekend of dry, sunny weather!!! I'm in desperate need to get my garden in order. We need to get it moved to the other corner of the yard and get it planted. I'm going to get my seeds started this week. Produce prices are killing me so I will be extra thankful for a nice garden this year! Last year was horrible!
Ok, I think this post is long enough. I hope everyone has a great day!
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