Special Exposure Wednesday

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Seeing we had another doctor's appointment yesterday we decided to spend a little time at the zoo which is pretty much just around the corner.  Gotta thank my Mom and Dad for the zoo membership for Christmas.  It is nice to be able to go and pay nothing, especially seeing we are so close so often.  Even if it is just for a walk, its nice to get out. 

Here is Kennedy checking out the lion cubs.  It must have been nap time when we went, so many of the animals were napping. 

I wish I could have gotten a better picture or turned the video on....the chimp was adorable and was playing peek a boo for a while before grabbing mom for a grooming.

This view of the octopus was a rare one.  Typically the lights are off in the tank so you do not get a great view of the octopus.  Yesterday the lights were on and the octopus was pretty active.  I got to get a great view of it before the lights went out.  Wish the lights were on for just a bit longer as I watched it climb the wall all stretched out.  It was pretty cool.

Join the Klippie Klub and build a great hair clip collection (giveaway)

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Giveaway closed.  Congratulations Julie!

I love finding companies that have great products and a great reason for starting a business.  Michelle Ruesch, mother of twins really loved receiving a pair of Squeaky Shoes when her twins were learning to walk.  As she searched for more of these she found they were expensive and wanted more styles.  This lead Michelle to launch Itzy Bitzy, a line of adorable Squeaky Shoes for little ones.  What I loved about this company is Michelle, like myself is a mother of a child with a special need. 

As parents we all want to see when our children are born that they are "perfect".  One of Michelle's twins was born with Treacher Collins Syndrome, which is a genetic disorder that causes underdevelopment of the facial bones and structures.  Michelle has seen that her daughter is "perfect".  I love that through her personal life and her company, Itzy Bitzy, Michelle is able to educate others to become more aware and accepting of children with special needs.  I have always been very open with having children with special needs and love finding others as open.  I was drawn to Itzy Bitzy because of this openness.  While at the time I did not have a young one to use Sqeaky Shoes...I am just now waiting for Lauren to start walking so I can get her some cute Itzy Bitzy Squeaky Shoes. 

What I do love is that Itzy Bitzy sells other items now also like flip flops and accessaries.  Tomorrow they are launching Klippie Klub, which will be a great way to build your little ones collection of hair accessaries.  It gets pretty pricey buying each hair clip seperately...but as a mom of two young girls I know how it is when you want a cute flower, or bow to match their outfits.  I know I tend to buy many many hair clips for different holidays...one especially that is coming up soon, Easter. 

Klippie Klub is a great way to save and get some great themed collections.  Klippie Klub comes in two membership types:


1. Krazy Klub

Over 70% total savings

Free Klippie Klutch (value $25.00)

1st Kit Free (value $40.00) (only pay $4.99 S&H)

Free Shipping

$15.99 per month

Retail Value $40.00

Commitment: purchase 6 monthly kits

2. Kasual Klub

Over 50% total savings

$18.99 per month

Retail Value $40.00

Free Shipping

No Commitment

This first kit, and Klippie Klutch can be yours free (just pay $4.99 S&H) when joining the Krazy Klub(has commitment of purchasing 6 monthly kits).  For either klub joined you will get a themed kit each month valued at $40.  For more information you can visit Klippie Klub FAQs by clicking here.

We received this kit to try out and I really like them.  The clips have all kept their shape well and withheld being pulled at by my one year old.  She doesn't keep things in her hair for long so having the clips is a great way to accessarise for her.  We can put them in easily when she takes them out.    I know my little one takes them out and I have to put them away when she is napping or while I am not right there.  These may have small parts, so if you are a mother of a child that mouths items, you should always have these clips in your sight to be cautious of choking.

I loved the color theme of this first kit.  The pink and aqua colors are something that gets worn by both of my girls often.  The Klippie Klutch is a great item to help store the clips, especially when travelling. I think it is a great kit that would be perfect for Mom to stock up or would make a great gift for the hard to buy for girls.  I am going to have to sign up and get more kits for my girls.  I think they will be a great way to fill their Easter baskets, or make a great birthday gift.  I can even picture myself wearing some of these too.  I love the bluish one that came in the kit for myself!

Join the Klippie Klub List to be the first to receive special promotions and coupon codes. 

"Like" Klippie Klub on Facebook.  Once they reach 200 "likes" on facebook, one lucky member will receive a Klippie Klub subscription for free!

Win it!!!  One lucky reader can win a free Klippie Klub kit right here!  To enter:  Sign up for the Klippie Klub List and share this post on your facebook page. (You can use the share buttons at the top of the post to share this on facebook.)

For extra entries: 
Like Klippie Klub on facebook.
Like Itzy Bitzy on facebook.
Like Finding our way home on facebook.
Follow Itzy Bitzy Blog.
Follow Finding our way home.
Share this giveaway any other way (twitter, email, google+)

This giveaway is open to US only.  Please leave a seperate comment for each entry and include either the name you like/follow with or a link that you shared it with).    The giveaway will end on March 14 and the winner will be chosen by random.org.  The winner will be contacted by email, so be sure to leave a valid email in your comments.

Disclosure;  I received the free kit and klippie klutch for free to review.  These are my personal opinions.

Magic Marker Monday..... Legos

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One of Zach favorite things to do now is to build with his legos.  He especially loves making trains, numbers, words, and even his version of Wipe Out.  I need to get a bunch of smaller ones so he can use them to practice his spelling words. 

To participate in Magic Marker Monday please visit http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/

Win 250 Label Stickers from UPrinting #giveaway

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Giveaway closed.
Congratulations Shawn!

Do you have a business or blog you would love to promote?  Maybe a project in mind?  Let UPrinting help you by using their label stickers. 

These would be great for my husband's fish hatchery.  I can not wait to check these out and design some for his business.  Thanks to UPrinting one lucky reader can win these!
Prize:
250 pcs. Sticker Printing for One (1) Winner
2" x 3.5"
70lb Label Matte
Front Only Printing
4 Business Days Turnaround
*Free shipping

Restriction: Limited to *US residents 18 years old and above only.  To enter you must do the following three entries:

1. Like UPrinting homepage (http://www.uprinting.com/). 

2. Google Plus: Plus 1 (+1 ) UPrinting homepage.


3. Tweet how you will use the postcards if you win the giveaway and at the end of the message include the UPrinting Sticker Printing URL (http://www.uprinting.com/sticker-printing.html).

Tweet


Additional Optional Entries:
Like UPrinting on Facebook
Follow UPrinting on Twitter
Add UPrinting on your Circle on Google Plus
Like Finding Our Way Home on facebook
Like @colleen_mouse on twitter

Please leave a seperate comment for each entry (although the ones numbered 1-3 are mandatory). This giveaaway will end on March 2 and the winner will be chosen by random.org.

Disclosure:  You should assume that the owner of this blog will receive free print product in exchange for the post. Any and all reviews posted are based solely on my own experience and may be atypical. Please practice due diligence in making any related purchase decisions.

#mamavation monday - my need to deal with stress better

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BLOGGING CARNIVAL: This week’s blogging carnival is sponsored by Mamavation.

One blogging carnival participant will receive $50 VISA gift card. To be eligible answer the following blogging carnival question in your weekly Mamavation blog post and link back to Mamavation site.  You can participate too by writing a post answering this question and Link up your post here.

What steps have you made so far this year to improve your quality of life?

I have started to eat better, cut out the fast food and soda.  I have also started to exercise more.  One thing I think I still need to work on is dealing with stress.  I really noticed this weekend that stress really makes me moody, and then I end up eating worse and/ not exercising. 

In the past year my home has become much more noisy and chaotic.  We have a one year old that typically is still up once a night or is cranky teething.  My oldest daughter has been sick more lately, and then also my father in law that lives with us has been sick.  My once non verbal son, is now very verbal and also likes to make lots of noise playing on the computer.  Also my twin teenage stepdaughters have been living with us. 

I let all the noise and cammotion build up until my head feels like it is going to explode...and then I explode.  I get crabby with everyone.  Then I feel like when I settle down I need to grab food that I shouldn't (and haven't) eat.  Yesterday I did this and I actually did feel better after....but now I am realizing it wasn't the food that made me feel better....it was that the house was quieter and I got to sit and enjoy a movie. 

Later this week I will start another 21 day challenge....and I am going to start today and make it a bit longer.  The week off so far has not been good.  I need to keep myself focused, write goals, and menus.  I need to keep exercising.  One thing I am going to add that I didnt though is walking.  Walking is a stress reliever for me.  I even noticed that walking in the house to a dvd helps me.  I think this is because everyone knows that the exercise time is a time for me, so I have the livingroom and tv and they go into a different room (not necesarily for me, but because they want to do something else).  I however think now that it is staying light out a little longer, that I am going to try to get out and go for a walk by myself. 


You can join Mamavation tonight as they discuss detoxing.

MAMAVATION TV: Join us Monday night at 7pm PST/10pm EST on Mingle Media TV.

This post is sponsored by Mamavation – a community dedicated to obesity prevention & weight loss for women and I’m writing this to be entered into a giveaway.

Special exposure Wednesday

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This was a big week!  Lauren pulled herself up to stand all on her own for the first time...and I actually got a shot of it.

How I lost 8 pounds in 21 days

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Yesterday was the last day of my 21 Day Mommy Blogger Weight Loss Challenge, sponsored by Dustin Maher.  Dustin is a personal trainer in Madison, has many workout DVDs and is the author of Fit Moms For Life.  I have enjoyed this challenge and it was really what I needed to give me a kick in the butt to get moving. 

I have to say Ash Wednesday is probably the best day to have my first day off this challenge.  Having to fast/eat light really helps keep me from indulging after being much better than I was a month ago.  Also if I give up eating sweets, then I guess it will give me another reason to not reach for the Girl Scout cookies that arrived yesterday. 

This morning I redid my pictures and my measurements, stepped on the scale and looked back at my goals.  I had three goals for the month (which isn't necessarily over so I am going to keep working on them this week): lose 10 pounds, hold a plank for one minute, and to be able to do 10 pushups on my toes. So far I have met one of those goals and can do at least 15 pushups on my toes.  I am close to the weight loss, but really have to work on the plank.  So I am going to keep working on these this week.  Then when the next challenge starts March 1st I will make some new goals.  Another goal I had written in my journal, but not here was no fast food or soda.  I also met that goal!  This week I am going to reread Fit Moms For Life, and next challenge try to improve my diet, get all my workouts in, and really focus on writing daily goals for myself.  I did that more the first week, but then slacked off, and I noticed my diet was not quite as good when I slacked off on the goal writing. 

I am not going to post my after pictures.  I just dont really see much change in the pictures themselves.  I have them all saved though so that I can compare them down the road.  I do feel like some clothes are getting a little looser, especially my jacket zipped up and some shirts.  That is probably because my biggest loses were in my abs and bra.  Gotta love core workouts!

Here are my stats:
Starting   2/2:                    Ending 2/22:     Results:
weight:    214                     206                    -8lbs
Chest:      45 1/4"               44 1/2"               -3/4"
Bra:         40 1/2"                38                       -1 1/2"
Waist:      41 1/2"                40"                     -1 1/2"
Upper Abs: 44 1/2"             42"                    -2 1/2"
Arm:         15 3/4"               15 3/4"                same
Thigh;       25 1/2"               25 1/2"                same
Hips:         47"                      46 1/2"              - 1/2 "


No you do not see huge losses....but what I have learned over the last few years is that huge losses typically end up with gaining those back.  "Slow and steady wins the race".  No gimmicks here, no crazy machines, no meds....just thinking healthy, and moving.  The only thing needed was a stability ball and some dumbbells......and encouragement to keep going.  I got plenty of that with the private facebook group that is part of the challenge resources. 

Like I said another challenge is starting in about a week.  If you are a mommy blogger and would like to participate send me an email and I can get you more information.  Dustin Maher is looking for bloggers to participate for free....which you will receive the Fit Moms For Life ebook, nutrition guide with recipes, and workout DVD download.  I am looking forward to the next challenge!

Want to see how others did this challenge?  Here is a list of mommy bloggers that participated.  If you are not a blogger but want to try this out, or see what other programs Dustin offers please visit http://dustinmaherfitness.com/






Disclosure: Dustin Maher is currently looking for mommy bloggers to participate for free (like I am) in his 21 day weight loss challenge. He will be charging and the prices my vary in the future. So this is a limited time offer for mommy bloggers, who agree to blog about the program.

The Cracked Pot

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An elderly Chinese woman had two large pots, each hung on the ends of a pole which she carried across her neck.

One of the pots had a crack in it while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water.


At the end of the long walks from the stream to the house, the cracked pot arrived only half full.

For a full two years this went on daily, with the woman bringing home only one and a half pots of water.

Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments.
But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection, and miserable that it could only do half of what it had been made to do.
After two years of what it perceived to be bitter failure, it spoke to the woman one day by the stream.
'I am ashamed of myself, because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your house.'

The old woman smiled, 'Did you notice that there are flowers on your side of the path, but not on the other pot's side?'
'That's because I have always known about your flaw, so I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back, you water them.'

For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table.

Without you being just the way you are, there would not be this beauty to grace the house.'

I got this from an email...not sure where exactly it came from.

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge- Journal day 21 All done...sort of

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Well today concludes the Mommy Blogger 21 Day weight loss challenge sponsored by Dustin Maher, author of Fit Moms For Life.  I have enjoyed the challenged and feel it has really got me off to a good start.  So today was the last day for this challenge, but I plan on rereading Fit Moms For Life, and doing some other workouts.....and starting over again come March 1st. 

Tomorrow I will get my measurements and see where I am.  Hoping to see a couple inches gone!  I think although I definitely have room for improvement I have been pretty good these three weeks.  I have exercised 14 of the 21 days, have not drank any soda and have eaten a lot more veggies. 

So now I need to stay strong, especially seeing the Girl Scout cookies have arrived in the house!

Today's Journal:

• 7am: oatmeal w/ cranberries and chia seeds(soaked in milk).  16 oz water
• 11:30am: ham&cheese on whole wheat, carrots w/ hummus and 1/2 serv. sunchips. 16 oz water
• 3pm: cranberry/choc chip WG muffin, 16 oz water
• 5pm: 2 WG wraps: brown rice, black beans, little hamburger mixed with santa fe philly cream cheese, lettuce and salsa.  16 oz water
• 8pm:  string cheese
• 8:30pm: 10min Wii hula hoop, 10min Wii fit boxing

I had a lot of plans to exercise more today, but crabby babies and husbands don't make it easy.  So as the night went on I figured I only had a half hour to hurry up and get something in for the day. 

This has been my experiences participating in the challenge in which I received free resources from Dustin Maher to guide me.  If you are a blogger and would like to participate in the next challenge send me an email for more information and you could participate for free in exchange for blogging. 

Chicken Soup for the Soul~Find Your Happiness (giveaway)

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101 Stories about Finding Your Purpose, Passion, and Joy

Others share how they found their passion, purpose, and joy in life in these 101 personal and exciting stories that are sure to encourage readers to find their own happiness. Stories in this collection will inspire readers to pursue their dreams, find their passion and seek joy in their life. This book continues Chicken Soup for the Soul's focus on inspiration and hope, reminding readers that they can find their own happiness.

21 day weight loss challenge- Journal day 20 #21mbc

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I stuck with it today.  I promised my son McDonalds today for lunch so yesterday I made a goal to pack myself something so I would not want any.  I grabbed a couple pieces of cheese and a breakfast to go pack.  I ate the one piece of cheese and drank some water.  I was very hungry.  I broke into the second piece and started feeling better.  That was good because I was thinking about grabbing a burger.  I ordered his food, and drove away.  I ate the rest of my lunch and was good to go.  I felt good that I didn't grab anything.  Now tomorrow will be another test.....girl scout cookies.  My husband informed me about a week ago that he had ordered a bunch of girl scout cookies. Great!  I asked our friend to box up some will power for me too!

Today I felt like a change ...instead of the challenge workouts or wii I decided to break out one of my Leslie Sansone walking DVDs.  It felt good.  It was a great 5 mile workout, with some strength training and lots of different moves.  I was about to quit at the 3 miles, but stuck it out and did the whole 5 miles.  It takes around 70min.  to do it.  I feel really good now too. 

Tomorrow is my last day of the challenge.  I plan on bringing it in strong.  I am home all day, so I am going to do the whole challenge workout.  I think I am going to switch it around and do the workout backwards and break it up into the three sections.  I really want to try and hold that plank! 

Today's journal:

• 7am: miniwheats w/ 1% milk, 16 oz water
• 11am: 1 string cheese, one cheddar/mozz cheese stick, 1 breakfast to go packet, 16 oz water
• 2:30pm: red peppers with hummus, 16 oz water
• 5pm: roast beef, mixed veg. 16 oz water
• 7p-8:30pm Leslie Sansone 5 mile walk 16 oz water
• 8:30pm muscle milk light protein bar, 16 oz water

Tomorrow is the last day of this months mommy blogger challenge sponsored by Dustin Maher.  He plans on having another challenge starting March 1st.  If any mommy bloggers would like to participate please send me an email.  He is offering the Fit Moms For Life(ebook), nutrition guide and workout dvd(download) free for bloggers.  This journal is my personal experience doing this free challenge. 

#Mamavation Monday

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BLOGGING CARNIVAL: This week’s blogging carnival is sponsored by Eden Fantasys.

 

What would make you feel sexier?

Honestly...a flat stomach would make me feel sexier.  Before I got pregnant this last time I was feeling so much better and felt sexier.  I finally felt like I was losing the stomach and it felt good.  Not feeling embarrassed around my own husband helps too. 

So saying that I am hoping I am on my way back to that flatter stomach.  I know it takes a lot of work.  It seems so much easier to get the rolls that to flatten the dough!  I will stick with it that time.

I have been posting the past almost 3 weeks whileI am participating in a 21 day challenge by Dustin Maher.  I am feeling better and have been better about what I am eating and about exercising.  Tomorrow is my last day of the challenge.  So it is time to really keep myself good about journaling and setting goals.  You can read more on my other blog posts about this challenge. 

I love having groups like mamavation to show support.  Even at times when I haven't been doing so well reading others posts would help get me motivated. 

MAMAVATION TV: Join us Monday night at 7pm PST/10pm EST on Mingle Media TV.

This post is sponsored by Eden Fantasys and I’m writing this to be entered into a giveaway hosted by Mamavation.

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge- Journal day 19 #21mbc

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Wow I can't believe we only have 2 more days of this challenge left.  I feel like I have started to slack a bit, but am actually looking forward to the next challenge March 1st. to start.  I hope to see more mommy bloggers participating and look forward to seeing the regulars again too!  I like the support from the private facebook group. 

I am going to really push myself these last two days...especially after today's cheat meal.  I had french fries....blah.  Tomorrow I have to run my son for an appointment and promised he could get McDonald's for lunch.  My goal is to stop for only him, and to make sure to pack myself a healthy snack and get lunch/a snack when I get back home. 

Today I did the whole challenge workout by Dustin Maher.  I was using 20lbs for most except 8lbs for one of the arm workouts that I think I can go higher on.  So today I lowered it down to 15lbs and used those for my overhead lifts.  This was much tougher, but I did it.  I think I am going to stick with this setup for a while.  I noticed that when I use the 20lbs my elbow area is a little sore but I'm good at 15lbs.  I really need to work on planks.  I think I need to start a workout trying the planks instead of middle-end of workouts.  I just feel wiped out by the time I get to them that I have a very hard time doing them.  I do not remember having such a hard time when I used to do them at other workouts. 

Today's journal:

• 8am egg, sausage, cheese on WG bagel, 16 oz water
• 12pm chili, cranberry/choc chip WG muffin 16 oz water
• 2pm strength, cardio, core workout 16 oz water
• 3pm breakfast to go packet (nuts, granola, dried fruit) 6 oz milk (1 scoop nesquik)
• 5pm roast beef, french fries (it was a sandwich but was just way too much bread so I ended up eating just a little of the bread and then ate just the roast beef) 16 oz water
• 7pm 16 oz water
• 8pm smoothie

I am participating in the mommy blogger challenge sponsored by Dustin Maher, author of Fit Moms For Life.  He has provided the ebook, a nutrition guide, and workout downloads for free to mommy bloggers.  If you would like to participate in the next challenge send me an email at colleenmouse at gmail.com and I can send you more information. 

The similarities of my daughters

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Lauren

Kennedy

Last week I just put away some pictures of Kennedy and Lauren where they looked so much alike, either making the same face or wearing the same outfit.  Over the past few weeks I have been very concerned and stressed because it seems Lauren may be heading down the same path, medically, as Kennedy.  I feel so bad that Kennedy has gone through so much, and now it is heart breaking to think another child may go through so many struggles as well. 

Then last night I was reminded of the smiles that we have had over the years.  Lauren was up on the couch laughing away.  I peek over and the cat is on the back of the couch and Lauren is reaching up grabbing the cat, so that the cat swats her.  We used to laugh so hard because Kennedy used to do this to our old cat too.  She would just sit there and poke and grab the cat until it bit her, and then she would giggle and giggle.

 Kennedy

Lauren

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge- Journal Day 18 #21mbc

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Well just doing a quick check in today.  I have stayed pretty busy today.  I decided to repaint my half bath today.  Between cleaning it really well, painting and cleaning other stuff I really have not had time to workout.  Well I probably could have actually worked out, but I felt like doing other things.  Oh well, I actually have more cleaning to do, so will just do a quick journal.

Today's Journal:

• 8am miniwheats w/ blueberries in milk, 16 oz water
• 10am broccoli slaw, string cheese 16 oz water
• 12pm tuna fish, pickle, miracle whip on triscuit crackers, 8oz water, cranberry/choc chip muffin
• 5pm salad, muscle milk lite bar 16 oz water
• 7pm lasagna 16 oz water

Disclosure:  I am participating in Dustin Maher's challenge in which he provided resources to me for free in exchange for blogging.

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge- Journal day 17 #21mbc

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I had another craving day....I am trying to figure out when it is that I really start craving the junk food and I think it is days when I am tired and not very active.  The last couple times were pretty quiet days at my house and I was tired.  I guess this is why journalling really helps.  I normally write a little about my day, like how active I am or my mood.  I noticed today that I was tired and just seemed like I wanted that "full" feeling and lunch didn't quite do it.  While I did still eat more than necessary, I did at least stop myself from eating a bunch of chips.  I grabbed a couple sunchips and quickly put the bag back knowing that wasn't what I was craving anyways.  I was craving sweets.  I did end up grabbing a blowpop out of my sons Valentines candy...and then I was good.  Wondering what are others peoples thoughts....I was thinking of grabbing a bag of hard candies like life savers or jolly ranchers...so that if I get in the sweet mood I can suck on one piece of sweet candy.  Do you think this is ok, or would it harm things.  Should I just try to totally avoid the sweet cravings? 

I wasn't very active today either.  Kennedy wasn't feeling good again.  She woke up a lot during the night stuffy, sneezing and coughing some.  Then she was sleepy.  It was so quiet around lunch time and that is when I felt the urges to eat.  I was also tired, and it was so nice and quiet that I just ended up playing a couple shows that I had DVR'd. 

I tried making up for it some this evening.  I made sure not to eat anything after dinner...definitely didn't need anymore calories.  I did some housework and got in a cardio workout.  Hoping to stay busy tomorrow, although it will probably be quiet.  Seeing I know it should be a quiet day, I think I am going to try to do the whole Challenge workout, but break it up and do half in the morning and half later. 

Today's journal:

• 7am frosted mini wheats cereal, 1% milk, 16 oz water
• 10am 1/2 WG bagel with peanut butter, 16 oz water
• 12pm cheese quesadilla (whole wheat) with salsa, broccoli slaw, cranberry choc. chip muffin (whole wheat), 16 oz water
• 1pm 3 sunchips, blowpop
• 2:30pm whole grain bagel with honey nut cream cheese, 16 oz water
• 5pm chili w/ 1 serving tortilla chips, 16 oz water
• 7pm 16 oz water
• 8pm 30 min Wii boxing and hula hoop
• 8:30pm 16 oz water

Disclosure:  I am participating in this challenge sponsored by Dustin Maher.  I was provided free resources to participate.  These are my personal experiences.

American Idol

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Thanks for the post from Barney Crosby

I have watched American Idol on and off since it first premiered. It amazes me that it has been on the air for so many seasons. I begged my husband to get satellite TV so we could watch it this season. He searched online for “direct tv Birmingham” and set up our satellite TV just in time for me to watch the season premiere. It is hard for me to believe that Simon is not a judge on the show anymore. While he was on the show I never really liked him. I thought he was arrogant and rarely had anything uplifting to say to the contestants. Now that he is not a judge anymore, I miss his comments and humor. I do like that Steven Tyler is now a judge on the show. His comments always seem so sincere and because he is a singer himself, I feel that his input is professional and usually correct. I also like Jennifer Lopez as a judge. She has a sweet personality and usually is uplifting to the contestants. I think that the show has a good balance of judges that give an appropriate amount of constructive feedback to the contestants. I am looking forward to seeing who the top 12 contestants are.

21 Day weight loss challenge- Journal day 16 #21mbc

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Ok so this may not look like such a great dish...but boy oh boy was it delicious!  Another challenger mentioned making spaghetti squash last week and I wanted to try it.  I had leftover homemade meat/veggie spaghetti sauce so I decided to cook up a spaghetti squash and some more mushrooms and mixed them all together.  I absolutely LOVED it!  I may never eat spaghetti again.

I love finding all these vegetables to use to replace other foods.  Squash types seem to be a big one that I have really been adding.  Guess next I will have to buy some butternut or acorn squash and try it.  I can't remember actually eating either of those since I was a kid.  For the spaghetti squash I had to google how to cook it, because I had no clue.  I would love some suggestions for some other new foods...fruits, veggies, whole grains...anything would be great.  I just finished making cranberry chocolate chip muffins made with whole grain flour and only 1/4 cup of sugar.  I know they have chocolate, but for the whole batch it only has 1/4 cup of mini choc. chips.  They sound like a great alternative ...now to go try one...be back in a second!

MMMM yummy!  Still a little warm!  I think I would like a bit less chocolate and bit more cranberries...or maybe even some dried cherries.  Next time!

Today Lauren was being good so I decided to try working out in the morning.  She however thought I looked more interesting and was under my feet quite a bit...luckily I was doing the weight training so it was a bit easier than some other workouts.  I was happy that I was able to do all my push ups on my toes again!  Tomorrow I am going to try to master the plank!!!

Today's journal:

• 6am: 8 oz water
• 7am: 16 oz water, oatmeal topped with 1 packet of apple cinnamon breakfast on the go
• 9am: strength training, 16 oz water
• 10am: string cheese
• 12pm: spaghetti squash with homemade sauce (tomatoes, peppers, onions, mushrooms, ground beef), 16 oz water
• 4pm:  2 eggs with 1 sausage patty, little potato, peppers, mushrooms scrambled together. Broccoli slaw. 16 oz water.
• 8pm: 1/4cup trail mix, 1 WG cranberry choc chip muffin, 16 oz water. 

Got to send  a big thank you out to Dustin Maher for the free resources to participate in this challenge.  You can find him at www.dustinmaherfitness.com .  If you are a mommy blogger and want to do the challenge for free send me an email at colleenmouse at gmail.com 

Want to see how others are doing?  You can check out the others participating with the links below:

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge - Journal day 15 #21mbc

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Well started the first day of the last week kind of low key.  I should have taken advantage of the little one sleeping in to workout, but I figured she would wake up at any time.  Go figure...right.  She slept in and then tonight when I planned to workout she was up my butt the whole night.  I finally pawned her off to her big sister while she is goofing around on facebook.  Hoping she will finally settle down and fall to sleep.  So I guess I will take today as my one rest day....guess I got a busy week ahead of me, as I set a goal to workout 6 days this week!

This morning I looked back at my journal to see where I could improve.  Definitely need to make sure I am getting my meals/snacks in on certain days...and limiting them on other days.  It is coming along though.  Overall I am doing way better than I did three weeks ago.  Today I went out with the little one for the afternoon.  I needed to get lunch while I was out.  I decided to stop at a sub shop in the mall.  I got a 6" turkey sub on whole wheat bun....and loaded it with all the veggies possible!  It had more veggies on it that anything.  Tasted good and to top it off I got a plain bottle of water!  NO SODA FOR 15 DAYS!!! 

So this week I am looking to get in some good workouts and get even better with my portions and late night snacking.  I even looked at my schedule for appointments and planned out a workout for the days off from the challenge, as I am already planning on starting the next challenge March 1st.  I am going to switch it up that 8 days off from the challenge.  I plan on using my Biggest Loser DVD and My Wii Active2 for strength training, and using my Wii Golds Gym, Wii fit, Leslie Sansone, and Biggest Loser DVDs for my cardio and core workouts, and have 2 scheduled rest days.  So if I can stick with it I will be feeling good!

For weights I have been using 8lb dumbbells for overhead lifts and another arm one that I can't think of the name.  I have been using 20lbs for squats, lunges, and other stuff.  I am going to push the pause button this week and switch my 20lber to 15lbers for overhead lifts.  I feel the 8 are too easy....but know I am going to struggle with 15...but I want to push myself.  For now I am sticking with no higher than 20lbs because I can really feel the pull in my elbow area.  I think sticking with this through the next challenge is a good idea, and then maybe I can find some higher weights for the spring challenges. 

Today's Journal:
6:30am 1/2 whole grain bagel topped with fresh baby spinach and two fried eggs. 16 oz water
10am 1/2 cup trail mix, 16 oz water.
1pm 6 " turkey on whole wheat subroll with lettuce, pickles, green peppers, hot peppers, cucumbers, onions, 16 oz water
5pm chili with half serving tortilla chips, 1/2 baked potato, 24 oz water
6pm 16 oz water (guess I was pretty thirsty)
7pm string cheese

By the way....I weighed myself this morning and am down around 2 pounds this week.  I am now down a total of 6.5lbs.  I will do measurements after next week. 

For more information on this program or others offered by Dustin Maher you can visit his site at www.dustinmaherfitness.com .  I am participating in this challenge and was provided the resources for free.  This is my personal experience.  If you are a mommy blogger and want to join the next challenge send me an email or message on facebook/twitter and I can get you the information to particpate for free.

Special Exposure/ Wordless Wednesday

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Daddy decided to let Lauren taste some frosting...of course she was on my lap at the time!  This next month will be busy for her.  She went to Kennedy's genetics appointment and they ordered more tests for her, suspecting possible mitochondrial disease.  She currently is delayed having a weak trunk/core.  She also is having some issues with her eyes.  So we have appointments for vision, MRI and EEG all before seeing one of Kennedy's nuerologists in April. 

For today we are going to bring Kennedy to school shortly and have a day out.  I think I am going to take her to the mall and look around.  Noticed Zach's sneakers have some holes starting so time to check out Kohl's seeing we have a 30% off coupon!  It will be good to just get out and wander around without having to rush for anything.

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge...Journal Day 14 #21mbc

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Well yesterday I did ok during the day, but was pretty tired and didn't do my workout.  Then last night I should have gone to bed because there was a lot of cravings.  Many people were eating chips in the house, and it made me crave them.  I did a healthier choice for chips, having sunchips...but grabbed the bag and probably had 2-3 servings after 9pm instead of just grabbing one.  Time to get stronger and not give in.  I wish I could just get rid of the chips, but everyone else gets mad if I do.  Oh well I gotta get used to being in situations where I make better choices.

So today I woke up earlier than normal thanks to the little one.  She was up at 5am.  I was ok with that seeing I was actually awake too.  I ended up eating a quick breakfast of just honey nut cheerios though instead of making a breakfast.  Its hard to cook in the morning when the little one is up already.  She is a bit clingy.  It snowed last night so I decided to go out and shovel the snow.  I could have let my husband plow or wait for it to melt more, but I thought it would be a good workout.  The fresh stuff was pretty easy, but there was a lot of packed down snow from a few days ago that had drifted and didn't get plowed.  That took a lot of work and I felt like I was getting a workout.  It took me about an hour and a half to shovel the driveway(Its quite a bit of area).

I did ok eating today, but could have used to get more veggies in I think.  I guess I could actually go make myself a snack still and get more in.  I went to the grocery store today also and got some more.  My husband doesn't realize that fresh stuff doesn't last that long and I have to go at least once a week or more for that stuff.  So I made sure to buy some frozen veggies too.  I like the steamer ones.  I had some mixed veggies tonight with dinner. 

I am kind of proud of myself tonight too.  I say kind of because I only did the strength training even though I was going to do the whole workout.  I am proud that during the strength training I did every pushup on my toes!  That is the first....this includes 15 first round, 12 second round and 10 third round.  I even felt like I could have done more on the third round.  I was pretty happy with this, especially after watching who could do more pushups Ellen, or Michelle Obama. 

Today wraps up the second week of the third week challenge.  I am ready to be strong and really push myself this third week.  Tomorrow I will weigh in and see where I am at.  Seeing I was out shovelling I forgot to weigh myself this morning.  I am thinking I will see good results again.  I am going to go make myself a smoothie to help cool off after the sweat inducing workout I just did...and think about this weeks goals and see where I can do better. 

Today's journal:
6am: honey nut cheerios, 16 oz water
7am:  shovelled snow
9am: cottage cheese 16 oz water
11;30 am: whole grain pancakes (with sweet potatoes in them) topped with a little agave nectar, 16oz water
3:00pm: 1 hershey kiss (stole from the kids valentines)16 oz water
5:00pm: steak and onion stuffed baked potato, mixed veggies, 16 oz water
7:30pm: warm up and strength training 16 oz water
8:30pm: Off to make a smoothie!  See you tomorrow!

Check out others on the links below:


If you want to join next month...got a special free offer for other mommy bloggers.  Just shoot me an email or message on facebook. 

dislosure:  This is my personal experience with the program offered to me for free by Dustin Maher. 

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge- Journal day 13 #21mbc

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Sponsored by Dustin Maher Fitness



I woke up really early this morning and remembered that I had to take Kennedy for a doctors appointment.  Well I knew it was today, but I had forgot that I needed to leave fairly early for it, and hadn't gotten anything together the night before like normal.  So I got up about 6am to make sure I ate a healthy breakfast, and packed a lunch.  There was not going to be any fast food for me!  I did well.  I actually wasn't even hungry for snacks today until tonight seeing we ate dinner early. 

On the other hand, I ended up tired too.  It most likely was due to me waking up early and laying in bed until I finally got up at 6am.  Plus it was a dreary day and the drives to the hospital make me tired.  They are so boring.  Then when I got home my little Lauren was cranky because we woke her up coming home.  So between me being tired and needing to keep the little one on my nap I did not get a workout in today.  So now I am looking back at my journals to see where I am at for exercise.  So I am only at 3 days out of 6(1 cardio, 1 strength and 1 both).  I really wanted to get 5 days in, but I mostly want to get 3 days of each cardio and strength in...so I am rearranging my workout schedule again.  While I was totally pooped yesterday doing all the strength, cardio and core workout, that will be my goal for tomorrow again.  Maybe I can space it out and do half in the am and half in the pm.  I gotta push myself for my last day of week 2!

I think overall I am doing well.  I know I need to work on things...but I think I am taking big steps in the right direction!  There is just 8 more days of this challenge, but am already gearing myself up for next months challenge!  If any mommy bloggers want to join me send me a quick email for a free code to participate next month.  You can start early and read Fit Moms for Life and even get a head start and do the workouts many of us are doing this month. ( I think next months might be different workouts).  So just email me at colleenmouse at gmail.com. 

Today's journal:

• 7am: 2 scrambled eggs with 2 slices of bacon and asparagus (way to use my leftovers and get my veggies in).
• 12N: muscle milk bar, string cheese, 1/2 banana sliced with strawberry slices
• 4pm: tuna fish w/ 1tbsp miracle whip with pickle, triscuit crackers, sweet potato fries w/ 2tbsp natural applesauce
• 7:30pm old fashioned oatmeal w/ cranberries, chia seeds and 1tbsp brown sugar.

disclosure:  I am participating in the free challenge sponsored by Dustin Maher.  These are my personal experiences.

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge- Journal day 12 #21mbc

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bacon wrapped asparagus

Sorry I didn't post yesterday.  I started to not feel well in the evening and went to bed early.  Yesterday I took as a rest day.  It was pretty quiet here.  I felt hungry during the day a lot yesterday.  We ended up grabbing Chinese food for dinner.  I have to say I thought the egg roll was disgusting and was felt it was so greasy I threw half of it away!  Yesterday I made whole grain pancakes with sweet potatoes in them.  They were so good.  Even my son who doesn't eat many veggies ate them.  Guess I gotta figure out more ways to hide veggies in his dishes.

Today I woke up much more motivated.  I did a lot of cleaning.  I actually need to go when I am done here and finish putting laundry away.  I got every piece of laundry done today, scrubbed some walls, and spent a couple hours reorganizing down in my basement. 

Today I tried something I do not recall eating (at least in the past 20 years).... asparagus.  I have a goal to eat 2 new foods this week.  I made spaghetti earlier in the week and wanted to try spaghetti squash but I couldn't find it.  Maybe I can get out shopping tomorrow and find something else new to try. 

Today's journal:

7am cheerios (1%milk) with strawberries, 16 oz water

10am leftover Chinese (1 cup fried rice, 2 cups chicken and broccoli) 16 oz water

1pm 2 sweet potato WG pancakes, 2 sausage links, 2 tsp agave nectar 8oz water

4:30pm 1/2 chicken breast, 3slices bacon wrapped around 9 asparagus spears, 1/2 sweet potato baked with cinnamon and dipped in 2 tbsp natural applesauce 16 oz. water

6:30pm warm up, strength training, cardio, core dvd 16oz water

7:30 1/2 cup trail mix, 16 oz water

Check out all the other participants in the links below.  If you are a mommy blogger and want to check out this challenge please email me at colleenmouse at gmail.com to find out more information and to try it free.  I received the resources to participate free from the sponsor Dustin Maher.  For more information you can also visit www.mommybloggerweightlosschallenge.com .  You can also see other products and classes Dustin offers by visiting www.dustinmaherfitness.com

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge- Journal Day 10 #21mbc

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(stole from facebook today...my nickname is mouse and I thought it was fitting today)

That is right....this mouse is not getting caught in the trap.  I may struggle with my weight, but I will win!  I did however increase my weights today from 15lbs to 20lbs.  I can not believe how adding 10 pounds really makes a difference.  I am so much more tired today.  I finished about 15 minutes ago and still feel a bit shakey.  Phew!!!

So today was cold and snowy which made me not want to do a lot.  The younger kids didnt have any school either, so I felt like I was going around picking up after my kid....or tripping over his toys!  Today I did do a first and made spaghetti sauce completely from scratch!  Typically I buy Preggo and add tomatoes and other veggies.  We got some canned tomatoes from a friend a couple months ago and have been using them a lot more.  My husband is liking it so much I think I have him talked into planting a garden this year and giving it a try. 

Todays journal:

• 8:00 2 fried eggs, 4 slices deli ham, 1 slice cheese, green peppers and romain lettuce in a whole grain tortilla. 16 oz water.
• 12:30 Salad w/ 1/2 grilled chicken breast, 1 tbsp italian dressing. 16 oz water
• 4:00 whole wheat spaghetti with homemade meatsauce (ground beef, tomatoes, onions, peppers, mushrooms, spices).  16 oz water.
• 6:30 smoothie(orange, strawberries, blueberries, cottage cheese, V8 fusion, milk), muscle milk light bar.
• 7:30 Warm up and strength training. 16 oz water.
• 8:00 off to grab more water!  See you tomorrow.

Reminder...If you are a mommy blogger and would like to do this challenge next month email me, or send me a message on facebook or twitter for more information.  For more information you can also visit www.mommybloggerweightlosschallenge.com

To check out the other challengers you can visit their blogs below:

disclosure:  This challenge is sponsored by Dustin Maher.  I was provided free resources to participate.  This is my personal experience.

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge- journal day 9 #21mbc

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So I have a confession....I kind of binged last night.  BUT  I was at a least smart about it.  As you may have noticed I did not post a journal for yesterday.  I got pretty busy through out the day and then before I knew it the kids needed to go to bed.  By then I was hungry and tired, but not ready for bed.  The teens and I watched a show and all had a snack.  At first we had a hard boiled egg and a pickle.  Got my protein and a veggie.  I was still hungry....and I guess in the mood where typically I would grab the bag of chips and eat away.  I did grab more to eat, but I grabbed one serving of the special K chips that are 110 calories, and piece of string cheese.  So it was a higher calorie snack all together being around 300 calories, but I guess it is still a lot better than I would have done two weeks ago.

 

This morning I felt bad because I skipped my strength training workout I was going to do last night.  I decided to rearrange my weekly workouts and had yesterday as my rest day.  Then I made up for it today.  Around 9:30 I started up the Wii and did 30 minutes Wii fit (hula hoop, steps and boxing).  Then I went on with my day, did some shopping, and came home to the teens playing Just Dance 3.  I turned on my 21 Day Challenge workout dvd by Dustin Maher....I let it play through the strength training and during that time danced with the girls for around 20 minutes.  I then immediately went into the cardio and core workout!  So today I got in about an hour and fifteen minutes of exercise!  I am feeling good!

 

Today I also was making beef stew for dinner.  I wanted to make this a bit healthier, so I turned it into lentil stew with a little bit of beef for myself....and packed away three servings in the freezer for another time! 

Lentil stew I had tonight.

Here is todays journal:

• 7:00 Left over Veggie Pizza with whole grain crust (and only had a little cheese to drop the fat down), 16 oz. water.
• 9:30 Wii 30 minutes . 16 oz water
• 10:30 Smoothie=1/2c cottage cheese, 2 cups berries, 1/2 banana, 1/2 c 1% milk, 1/4 OJ (baby ate some of this too)
• 1:00 Mini Grilled ham and cheese (on 1 slice Udi's gluten free whole grain bread), 1 tbsp hummus and red peppers. 16 oz. water
• 3:30 early dinner- lentil stew=cooked 1 cup dry lentils in 3 cups beef stock, one cooked diced potatoe, one cooked diced carrot, about 6 pieces of stew beef I stole from the crock pot while I made beef stew, 1/8 cup corn, 1/4 cup sting beans.  This made 4 servings, which I had 1 of tonight.  Also had 1 small piece of veggie pizza. 8 oz water
• 7:00 20 min wii just dance, 25 min. cardio/core workout
• 8:30 I am off right now to find a protein snack before I am too cool from my workout!

 

 

If you are a mommy blogger and  interested in trying out this challenge next month, give me an email, tweet or message on facebook for a code to try this for free.  If you want to check out the others participating check out these blogs:

 

 

 

 

Disclosure:  I recieved the 21 day challenge products for free in exchange for blogging about the program.  These are my personal experiences during this challenge.

Udi's Gluten Free foods....Snickerdoodles are my favorite!

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We are not a gluten free household, but having a child with autism I wanted to check these out.  Several of my children's classmates and some relatives are now gluten free either because they are on the spectrum or have food sensitivities.  I recently was asked to try out Udi's gluten free pizza crusts, but was actually sent much more.  My absolute favorite were the gluten free snickerdoodles!  They tasted better than ANY snickerdoodle cookie I have ever eaten before!  I am going to get some of these and send them to school, so that hopefully some of the classmates that are on a gluten free diet can have this yummy treat! 

I did try out the pizza crusts too.  They come in a 2 pack of 9 inch size.  These are a great size for the family.  I made a regular pizza and a breakfast pizza with these.  They taste pretty good.  They pretty much stay much like they are when baked.  I didn't have to worry about rising, or over cooking really.  Once my toppings were cooked, the crusts were warm and ready to eat.  I really liked it with the breakfast pizza. 

I also tried out Udi's Cinnamon Raisin bagels and blueberry muffins.  I really did not care for the bagels.  They seemed much drier than gluten full bagels.  They also did not have much flavor.  The blueberry muffins were good.  When they were room temperature they were kind of crumbly, but a good flavor.  I heated one a few seconds in the microwave and it then had a much moister texture. 

The last product I tried was Udi's whole grain bread.  This is a denser bread which reminds me of homemade bread.   It is great toasted.  It lasts a long time also.  I have had it for a few weeks actually and it is still quite fresh.  I do not eat a lot of bread and like whole grain bread when I do.  This is nice because it has stayed fresh the whole time while I have just finished the loaf.  I had a nice "Elvis" style treat the other night.  I toasted a couple slices, then topped with natural peanut butter and fried banana.  It was pretty yummy! 

Udi's products are now available at select Walmart stores, as well as Kroger, Whole Foods and more.  You can also purchase these and other Udi products from their website.  www.udisglutenfree.com

disclosure:  I received free products from Udi's.  These are my personal opinions.

Wordless Wednesday/ Special Exposure Wed.

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Ahhh finally wordless!  She was supposed to be settling down for bed, but she was just jibber jabbering and playing with her feet.  Finally we had quiet and this was Lauren!

21 Day Weight Loss Challenge- Journal day 7 #21mbc First week down and loving it!

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Well today finishes the first week of Dustin Maher's 21 Day Mommy Bloggers Weight Loss Challenge.  If you haven't been following along Dustin, author of Fit Moms For Life and trainer to thousands of Moms, has challenged mommy bloggers to lose weight by following his suggestions.  He provided us with a free copy of his ebook, dvd workouts, and nutrition guide.

 

I have not really been using the nutrition guide book, but have been going by his suggestions in the Fit Moms For Life book.  I have been eating 5-6 smaller meals a day, thinking about how nutritious they are when I am making them.  I have avoided all soda, sweets and junk food all week, with the exception of a low calorie snack today. 

 

I love the workouts!  They are quick and simple...yet strenuous and tough!  They make you sweat and get the heart pumping.  This has been a great month to start this challenge, being heart healthy month.  For those Mommy Bloggers out there that would like to try this out next month, give me an email for a special code to try it free.  Dustin is trying to get 5,000 mommy bloggers to get this going! 

 

I did a pre-start weigh in, measurements and pictures and shared them.  I am journaling my diet and exercise for the complete 21 days.  This has kept me very accountable and love the facebook group for lots of support.  The other challengers have been great....you can check them out here:

 

 

I have written daily, weekly, monthly and longterm goals to help me out.  This past week my weekly goals were to have no soda and no fast food...which I accomplished.  Another goal was to try a plank for as long as I could every day.  I kept forgetting about this one so I am going to carry it on to this week.  I wasn't sure what to do for a goal today but decide to really look at my journals from this week and see what more I can do.  I did that today and made some new goals and a workout schedule for the week.  Here is my plans:

1. Plank everyday, as long as I can hold it.
2. Try 2 new foods this week.

Exercise Routine:

• Wed: strength training dvd(S), plank(P), Wii hula hoop (HH)
• Thur: Cardio 2times, core dvd (CC)
• Fri: S, P, HH plus an extra workout on my Wii at a seperate time
• Sat: Rest day
• Sun: S, CC
• Mon: CC
• Tue: P, HH, Wii

Now for todays journal:

• 7:00 16oz water, 2 scrambled eggs with black beans, peppers, onions, mushrooms and spinach and an orange.
• 9:00 16oz water
• 11:30 16 oz water, 2 cups salad with 6 slices deli ham and 1 piece string cheese, 1 tbsp ranch dressing.  1 serving Special K chips (100cal.)
• 2:00  16 oz water, 1/2 cup trail mix (pumpkin and sunflower seeds, deluxe mixed nuts, raisins and dried cherries)
• 4:00 homemade turkey noodle soup (used whole wheat noodles, turkey breast, chicken stock, corn, string beans, tomatoes, and spinach)
• 5:30 16 oz. water.  Wii fit 10 min hula hoop and Wii golds gym cardio workout (boxing) on advanced level 20 min.
• 6:30 2 slices Udi's Gluten free whole grain bread (toasted) with 2 tbsp natural peanut butter and 1/2 fried banana(1/2 tbsp butter), 16 oz water

Today I was proud that while I had what I consider junk food, the Special K cracker chips, that I only had one serving and that they are only 110 calories per serving....unfortunately they are not whole grain so I get to deduct a point for my challenge.  Oh well..I wanted a salty crunchy snack and thought it was a much better alternative to potatoe chips. 

I used to wake up every morning with a very achy back.  I was thinking my bed was the culprit...but obviously it is more core strength.  Since starting this challenge, I have been doing much better.  I think after about 4 days I started waking up and not really being stiff at all!  I love the workouts!  I started the strength training off with 8lb weights, then the second one went to 15lbs.  Tomorrow I am going to up them again to 20lbs. 

I have not done my measurements yet...will probably just wait until the end....but I am very happy to say that I weighed myself and have lost 4 pounds in just a week!!!!  I am excited and ready for the next two weeks! 

Thanks Dustin Maher for providing me with the free products to participate in your 21 Day Weight loss Challenge! For more information on other products or classes he offers please visit www.dustinmaherfitness.com

Betty Crockers coupons

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Betty Crocker Molasses Cookie Mix.

Disclosure: I  received this information and the coupon offer from Betty Crocker through
MyBlogSpark.

Picasso Hair Feathers have been a hit!

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Back at Christmas time I mentioned that I what I was adding in my kids stockings.  For my ten year old daughter that loves girly things I was adding a set of Picasso hair feathers.  These have been used a lot, and she still has one in her hair right now!

We were offered to check these out, and chose the Candyland style.  These come in a mix of pink, turquoise and gray colors.  This collection works great for Kennedy as she wears tons of pink and turquoise.

I first had to watch the video on how to apply them, and after a little testing for the first one it was really simple to apply.  They also stay in really well.  Kennedy has worn then a few times, twice she wore a couple of them for a full week, and one feather she has had in for about three weeks.  It looks so cute, so we just left it in.  You can have them in and style your hair just as you typically would.  I just take a little more caution while I am brushing to not catch the end where it is attached.  Otherwise it brushes just like your hair.  If you want you can cut them to your desired length, or style them by straightening them, curling them (no heat over 180 degrees...so use low temp) or putting up in a pony tail or braid.  You can wash your hair and the feathers during your regular showers....no need to take them out every time you wash your hair!

Kennedy has gotten tons of compliments from adults and other children.  Everyone that sees them in her hair has mentioned how good they look.  They are thinner, so you can put them in multiple spots, or just one for a subtle style...or put the set close together for a more dramatic style. We think they are great...and I want to get a color that I wear more of too.  I think they are great for children and adults! 

You can purchase Picasso Hair Feathers by visiting picassohairfeathers.com. They come in several different color collections and in 5, 12, and 25 packs.  They are a great way to add some style to any wardrobe....and you do not have to worry no animals were harmed. 


disclosure;  I received a free 5 pack of my choice from Picasso Hair Feathers for review.  These are my personal opinions.

21 Day Challenge- Journal day 6 #21mbc

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Today seemed like a long day that went quickly.  Today isn't a full week on the challenge by Dustin Maher, but it is a week since I started thinking healthier.  So today I weighed myself for my mamavation monday update...and while I was there I decided to get in a quick 10 min hula hoop.  I use the balance board to weight myself on my Wii fit.  Anyone else still use the Wii Fit?  I like many other games too, but still rely on the Wii fit, especially the hula hoop....and that darn obstacle course tires me out! 

Todays goal was to do the complete workout....and while it was late, I did it!  I did the strength training at 6:40...finished up at 7:10.  I was pooped today doing it...so I did take a break for about 15 minutes and grab a little protein to give me a boost....and I drank a full cup of water.  I finished up the cardio and core.  I got a little better this time around, and was able to do the first set of pushups on my toes, did the first set of side planks on my toes too.  I however still could only do about 1/2 the plank on my toes. 

I'm tired tonight...so I am going to think about my new goals tomorrow.  Here is my journal for today:

6:30 miniwheats/1% milk, banana, 16oz water
9:00 10 minute hula hoop
10:00 4 slices deli ham, 1 slice cheese, 1 pickle, mustard Wrap.  16 oz. water
11:30 16 oz. water
1:30 left overs of my healthier mac n cheese, and 4 homemade white chicken nuggets w/ hot sauce
5:00 hot italian sausage, tomatoes and sauce, sauteed veggies: yellow squash, peppers, onions, mushroom...made into a casserole and sprinkled with parm cheese.  16 oz water
6:40 Warm up and strength training 16 oz water
7:15 string cheese 16 oz water
7:30 cardio/core/stretching
8:30 Toss salad w/ tiny bit of italian dressing and vinegar
9:00 still hungry so I had 1/2 cup trail mix: sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, deluxe mixed nuts, dried cherries and raisins. 16 oz. water

Im of to bed....hoping to get a good nights sleep cause last nights sucked!  Have a good night!