Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Don't Cry Over No Milk!

<-I will miss thee!
Hey Ladies,
How is everyone doing this week? I'm doing ok although I've been going through some crazy stomach upset since integrating some dairy back into my life.  Remember a few weeks ago I mentioned cutting out dairy completely? Well I did that and then one day I wanted some cheese and then I wanted some Clemmy's (it's a sugar-free, low-carb  ice cream, they use chicory root for sweetness) BIG FAT MISTAKE!  Yeah so now I've spent a week paying for my bad decisions but what was I to do I NEED cheese in my life haha.  I'm really cutting back now though since my dairy sensitivity causes inflammation in my stomach and causes me to feel tired, sluggish, and bloated.  The only dairy product that does not effect me is half and half, I don't know why but the small amount I use for my morning coffee never leaves me feeling bad. Another thing that also has dairy is my protein powder.  Does anyone use egg white protein?  My mom said she likes it a lot and it is dairy free. Let's hope I can kick dairy to the curb, here's 21 days without so I can detox from it. My 21 days of quitting something always works so I just keep going back to it.

In other news, that is less depressing than not eating cheese, I finally got my pull up bar put up!! YAY! I used it yesterday and wow I can't do a single real pull up but I can do the modified chair pull ups my biceps, triceps, and back are killing me but in a good way.  I love the burn and pain of exercise.  I feel like I'm doing everything right and it is working.  Do you have that relationship with exercise soreness?

Any P90Xers laugh when you are in "Frog" and Tony says "Get sexy with it" I die laughing almost every time.  IF you have no idea what I am talking about thats ok too.  I couldn't find a clip or I would have posted the link.

Friday, March 22, 2013

It's Friday, Friday!

Hey Ladies,
How was your week? Mine has been good, just busy so I haven't been able to post as much.  In the Spring my business gets really busy with e-mails and clients.  Wedding Season is nearly upon  us and brides are looking for a makeup artist so there I am doing three consults on one weekend but really that is ok with me! I love working with lovely brides and ladies with their makeup.

Anyway, with this being week SIX of P90X I decided I needed to up my weights and go harder well you know mind over matter so that is what I did.  It actually helps so much to say by this week I want to be lifting two pounds more than before.  Even though two pounds more doesn't seem like a lot it is challenging and I think I needed that.  I love to challenge myself and give myself new goals my fitness journey is really never over.  I'm still finding ways of improving and challenging myself more plus I really want some nice arms, glamour muscles! Eventually, the warm weather will get here and I will want to wear all my sleeveless tops and not feel self-conscious.  To me it is completely worth the pain to get results, I hope the pain actually doesn't go away because it reassures me  that I am making progress and all the puddles of sweat say I'm burning calories.  ALSO this week I put up my pull up bar...YAY! I was using bands before but now I actually get to do real pull ups...with a chair (the modified way).  IF TONY doesn't care than neither do I.  I got some new kicks as well, maybe you don't know this but I am a huge thrift store junkie, and while I was looking around I stumbled across some shoes I thought would work for me.  They were new and never been used so I picked them up for $5.  They are great jumping shoes so plyo should be easier now.  We'll see how those work for me.

I hope you guys are getting your mind right, getting in your daily exercise and eating as planned.  I know I am really doing well and feeling great too! This goes for the preggos too, don't let yourself go completely just because you growing a baby hehe. I made that 80 pound mistake once and I will never do that again. <3 you all

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Pizza Crust *low carb, gluten free*

Hey Ladies,
Yesterday,  I was baking up some of my gluten free, low carb crackers, yummm! When I thought of an a great way to use this recipe instead of breaking them up why not make a thin crust pizza. Hmm and it totally worked.  I know this recipe is low carb, gluten free and if you you don't care about that stuff it's ok you can just skip this one or try it out and save you the calories that are in traditional pizza crust.

First of all I make my crackers on a pizza stone so that they come out crispy.  I think that you could make these on a regular baking sheet too but pizza stone works best. The "crust" may get a little stuck so I loosen it from the stone after it is done cooking and then leave it to cool on there. I think if you use parchment paper this will cure this issue though but since I didn't have any I just made it work.

Thin Curst Pizza Crust Recipe
3 TBSP Coconut Flour
1/4 tsp Celtic Sea Salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp Italian spice
1/8 tsp aluminum-free baking powder
2 TBSP unsalted butter (straight from the fridge)
1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup cold water

Preheat Oven to 400*F
In a medium bowl combine coconut flour, celtic sea salt, garlic powder, Italian spice, and baking powder. Mix until combined. Grate in butter and mix with fingers until crumbly.  Add cheese and water until dough forms. I use a food processor but if you do not have one then you can use your hands it works just the same.  Form the mixture into a ball and place between 2 sprayed pieces of parchment paper, I spray mine with olive oil cooking spray. Remove the top piece of parchment paper if using a baking sheet and both pieces of parchment if you are using a pizza stone.  You can brush an egg wash over top for even browning, but I didn't. Bake in oven for 12 minutes or until crust has set.  Let cool on pizza stone or baking sheet. If you are using a stone I suggest loosening the edges before the crust cools because it may get a little stuck.

After crust has cooled a little add pizza sauce (I make my own), cheese, and your favorite toppings. Then cut into squares and enjoy.  This is not a big pizza it is probably enough for 2 people maybe 1 really hungry one.  IF you want a bigger pizza just double the recipe. I really really like this crust out of all the ones I have tried for low carb, gluten free crust.

Let me know if you try this recipe and what you think.

Nutritional Info will vary depending on what you top your pizza with.
Nutritional Info for 1 serving (1/2 the pizza CRUST)
Cal: 116 Fat: 9.2 Carb: 4.2 Fiber:2.2 Protein: 4.3

Monday, March 18, 2013

Busy Weekend and Easy Chicken Recipe

Hey Ladies,
This passed weekend was so busy.  On Saturday I left my house at 11:30a.m. and returned home at 12:00a.m.  My awesome husband took care of our daughter which meant they want on a "date" to McDonald's. I'm a pretty big health nut but I'm ok with my family eating McDonald's every once in awhile, I have to keep it balanced though.  Sunday was also very busy but I managed to make a healthy lunch to keep us from eating out.  I made sure to have extra for leftovers at dinner time.  It was excellent both times and I want to share that recipe with you today.  This recipe came about when my sister-in-law came in town and made a similar or maybe it was this recipe but since I didn't have her recipe I just did the best I could at remembering what she did. ANYWAY it works for us so here it is.

Easy Chicken
4 Organic/Skinless/Boneless Chicken Breasts
2 TBSP Organic Dijon Mustard (optional)
2 TBSP Organic Tangy BBQ Sauce (optional)
1 can organic diced tomatoes
1 small diced jalapeño pepper  (take seeds out for less spice)
1/2 cup organic sliced fresh mushrooms
1 diced organic diced green pepper
1/4 cup organic diced onion
Enough cheese to cover the chicken (I try to avoid cheese as much as possible because I have a dairy sensitivity, so add as little or as much as you would like)

Preheat oven to 375.  Put 4 chicken breasts into a glass baking dish, brush Dijon Mustard and Tangy BBQ sauce onto chicken breasts which gives the chicken lots of flavor and keeps it juicy.  Dump 1 can of organic diced tomatoes, diced jalapeño pepper, diced green pepper, sliced mushrooms, and  diced onion all over the chicken. Cover chicken with foil, loosely and put in the oven for 30 minutes.  Check with a meat thermometer until chicken reaches 165*/F.  Add cheese over top return to oven uncovered and watch until cheese is melted.  Serve with Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes and broccoli or your favorite vegetable sides.

This meal takes me so little time to make it is my go to chicken dish when I'm limited on time.  
If you don't want to use BBQ or Dijon Mustard you could just use chicken broth but I really like the flavor with the sauce.  I try to use as much organic ingredients as possible but if you don't you can also use 1 can of Ro*tel in place of the diced tomatos and jalaepeno pepper. :)) If you try this dish out let me know if you liked it.


Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Abdominal Separation *Update*

Hey Ladies,
First off how are you getting along with this time change? I don't think I'm doing too well with it, I've been going to bed early but still feel exhausted when I wake up. Hopefully my body will adjust by next week:).

So last time I mentioned abdominal separation I had just started working on ways to correct it or at least make it a little better. I believe my separation occurred three years ago after my c-section and since then I had not done anything to correct it until January of this year. I tried using a belly wrap and simple abdominal exercises to force the muscles back together and that seemed to make a little difference. In the middle of February I got a little frustrated with the whole thing so I just did my workouts without the wrap for about a week and of course nothing changed. Last week I did notice my gap got smaller and I'm attributing this change to all the core work in yoga that doesn't involve crunches. I'm not the hugest yoga fan well now I'm starting to jump on the bandwagon though. My separation is not nearly as bad as it was in January and I felt the biggest change after incorporating yoga into my workouts. I recently have read that practicing prenatal yoga can ward off abdominal separation. I know it hasn't completely mended my separation but I've seen a huge improvement. I think if you are suffering from abdominal separation practicing yoga can really help. In yoga there is so much core work that works your entire core not just your abs that your entire body benefits too. I'm hoping to keep seeing the gap close and things to get more toned. We'll see what the next 3 months brings.
Let me know if you practice yoga or Pilates and what benefits you have seen from it.

*I do yoga in accordance with my P90X classic schedule, which usually breaks down to once a week but I have been adding it in twice a week for the benefits on my mind and abs lol*

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Pet Peeve /RANT

Hey Ladies,
Today as I was sitting with my daughter and reading a blog about a woman who was struggling with weight.  In her post she made every excuse under the sun to say why taking care of her health was just the last thing on her list and it was just more convient to buy frozen food, eat at fast food restaurants, and just eat whatever junk food was brought into work that day all because she was a single mother with no time or energy to do anything else. Lets just say by the end of the blog post I was really peeved with her.  I wanted to just say, "Hey Lady, if you put half as much energy into making simple healthy recipes at home as you do complaining about how hard it is to make your health a priority, you may have more time at the end of the day and be a lot healthier."  This is one of my biggest pet peeves with people, instead of saying lets just get it done lets make my lifestyle a little better they just complain about the cards they were delt.  If you really want something you will make it happen, you will stop complaining about being over weight, unhealthy, sick, and tired and just make the changes in your life.  If you are completely fine with being all of the above listed things then that's fine too just don't complain about it.  Not everyone can be health minded or McDonalds would be out of business.  I know I may not be on the other side of the fence where I'm single, work 2 jobs, and have a handful of kids to take care of but you know what even if that were my life I know that health is something so important to me that I would just get it done.  If I manage to make 7 days worth of healthy meals in 1 day, you can do it too.  :)))
OK END RANT!

Monday, March 4, 2013

In-love again ;)

Hey Ladies,
It's been awhile but since I'm confined to the couch with my daughter while she's sick I thought I would write a post.

For the past couple of weeks I've been suffering from skin issues which tends to happen when my skin gets dry. I usually just apply my coconut oil and that takes care of the extra moisture but after a couple of weeks with more blemishes coming to the surface I decided to check out my makeup. Just FYI I'm a makeup artist I try a lot of new foundations and products both from the drugstore and higher end. Recently, I have been loving the finish and coverage of Rimmel BB cream if you don't have any skin sensitivity try it out. However, I'm allergic to it and it breaks out my skin. I'm usually not allergic to the product itself, it is the fragrance they use in the products. Two months ago I had to change moisturizers after the fragrance in the product burned my face. It is hard finding products that will work with my sensitive skin but my one that I know will work is Bare Minerals. I worked for the company doing free lance artistry a couple of years ago and while I love their products I wanted to try something different. I noticed that my skin has been a lot more problematic since I stopped using it on a regular basis. On Saturday, I decided to go to Ulta and talk with their skin therapist and decided that since I knew it would probably be fine for my skin to go ahead and go back to it. I'm seriously in-love...again! I forgot how much I loved this stuff. Plus it takes me like 5 minutes to do my everyday makeup. I use the matte version that isn't formulated with bismuth oxide, I have a sensitivity to that as well. Do you have a cosmetic brand you can't live without? I feel like no matter what I've been going back to bare over the last 8 years.
To build back up my collection of Bare I think I'll get one item every time I want a "treat".
I have a little list going of things, I'm lucky to have worked for them and still have a lot of eyeshadows, blush, bronzer,and finishing powder. Unlike traditional makeup Bare Minerals powder products don't go bad, we used to call it dinosaur dirt.

I hope y'all don't mind these no fitness related posts. More to life then eating and burning cals especially in this Fit Mom's life. Hehe ;)

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Cravings



Originally I was going to write a post on my favorite things. I always love seeing what things and products others are loving. Then as I was drinking my morning coffee I realized I was craving the weirdest things for breakfast: Avocado? and Flaxseed Waffles?  not together and no there is no pregnancy in my foreseeable future.  My conclusion was I NEED Omega-3's in my life.  I used to eat a lot more flaxseed and then I got kinda tired of it so I hadn't eaten it for a month or so and I hadn't taken my Omega-3 fish oil vitamin either.  Unfortunately, I didn't have any avocado so I'll have to pick up a couple when I go to the store.  I did however make wonderful Flaxseed waffles that fulfilled my craving.  I also made some egg cups because I saw a picture of them on Pinterest and thought I needed to try them to see if they came out as delicious as they sounded.  They actually came out more amazing than I thought.  Next time I make them I'm going to top them with mushrooms, onion, green pepper, and diced tomato but today my fridge is kinda low on all the veggies.



Ramblings:
1. We had a busy weekend with Evelyn's birthday!
2. Constancy in working out makes the biggest difference.
3. Coconut Oil is healing my skin and making my eyelashes grow (I can't prove my eye lashes are longer and thicker but they sure look it.)
4. I never announced the Feb. giveaway still deciding if I am going to for this month.
5. Evelyn wants to show her favorite things too.

Friday, February 15, 2013

Happy *sad for mom* Birthday!

Today is a great day but also a little sad as I realize that my little girl is one year older.  I never really imagined myself as a mom or having a little girl that would completely be my life.  She is an amazing little person with such a big, bubbly personality and I am lucky to be her mom.  We get to know each other a little more everyday and she has gotten so independent but at the same time still needs her mommy and daddy!

You know the funny thing about babies is that they really aren't babies that long.  It's like they are born you take a nap and they are going to school. Then before you know it they are leaving you. Now I know my daughter is only turning 3 but seriously the last 3 years have gone by so fast.  In the newborn days when you have a hard day you think wow will this ever pass? Well it does and then the next phase starts.  This new phase, the "preschool phase" is going to be simply amazing.  I can't wait to see her grow over the next year.  
Happy Birthday Evelyn! I love you! 


Newborn, Feb 15, 2010 1:38P.M.  6lbs 5oz 
  

1 Year Old 

2 Years Old 


3 Years Old 


Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Last Week

Hey Everyone,
Sorry I have been a little MIA lately.  Last week was probably one of the worst weeks in our house in terms of sickness.  Since we have had Evelyn she has never really been all that sick until last week when she got the stomach virus! It was actually pretty bad for everyone since we all got it.  After taking a few days to recuperate, I started back to my P90X, it is addicting, no?  I think it is, I enjoy it so much and I think about it when I wake up in the morning and when I go to bed at night, ok maybe not that much but I do think about it a lot. I actually  have noticed some results in the nearly 3 weeks I have been doing it.  My waist is down another inch and I'm noticing way more muscle definition. My calves which tone up pretty fast are looking nice just in time for the warmer weather.  Do any of you notice you have one calf bigger than the other? My left calf is bigger than my right. Isn't that weird? I think so, I only notice it when I wear my tall boots though.

It's Sunday and you know what that means....THE WALKING DEAD is BACK!! I have mapped out my Sunday night TV schedule because Downton Abbey also comes on tonight.  I'm such a nerd but I feel like I must watch all my shows on the night they come out or it just isn't the same. Do you do this? or do you just stream everything later?  We do stream quite a few shows mainly ones that come on in the UK like Sherlock.  Have you seen Sherlock? It is really good I believe it is on Netflix if you have that.  We watch it on Amazon and it is good. I hear they are going to have a 3rd season YAY!

Oh I don't think I have mentioned this before but I have cut out a lot of dairy in my life and Oh it feels so good. My stomach just feels better all around but I do miss cheese.  I was having a lot of problems with my tummy when I consumed greek yogurt, cottage cheese, sour cream, and heavy whipping cream.  I have had a dairy intolerance for awhile but only to milk and ice cream other forms of dairy didn't seem to bother me but then last month when I was consuming a bit more than usual of the dairy products I started noticing my stomach hurting more and frequent headaches.  I decided to try to limit my dairy to only my teaspoon of half and half in my morning coffee that doesn't seem to bother me.  Anyway we shall see how it goes.

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!
<3

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

Sickness and in Health

Wow! To say I am ready for this week to be over is a complete understatement! This weekend we had family in town and unfortunately almost all of us got the stomach virus which I am sure I have talked about enough on my facebook page and today seems like it is just starting all over again with my daughter. However, after days of not doing P90X to recover I am determined to get it done today.  I went to Target yesterday to get  some birthday invitations for my daughter's birthday party and I found some really cute day planners for $3.98, Perfection!  I think it will be really good to keep track of what my P90X schedule because last week I got mixed up and did one of the workouts on the wrong day which I am sure doesn't matter TOO much but I just want to keep track of it.  Since the calendar days have ample space for writing I also wanted to keep my measurements in there for the month.  I think this will be the best way to track my progress.  In high school I was absolutely terrible with day planners, I wasn't that girl with all the cute binders and neatly organized papers.  I usually stuffed all my papers in my book and by 3 weeks into school I had stopped using that planner and it was in my backpack somewhere. I'm hoping since I am much more organized now that I can keep up with this new method of tracking workouts. We will see!

Also, while I was at Target I picked up some new tea.  Do you drink teas? I absolutely love them and I really think that if you can get supplements through a tea it limits how many vitamins you have to buy.  I am a huge supporter of vitamins and supplement timing,  getting the vitamins in at the right times to get maximum benefit, but also drinking an herbal wellness tea can be a great addition to your healthy lifestyle.  Yesterday, I bought Celestial Seasonings Sleepy-time Wellness Tea,  I had another brand of wellness tea but it wasn't combined with sleepy-time.  I wanted to try this tea to see if I liked it better than the previous one.  Drinking this tea about 30-45 minutes before bed was so relaxing.  During the day I will sip on green tea, sometimes a spicy chai tea (not a chai tea latte), and chamomile. I am always in search of new teas so if you have any recommendations let me know!

My new day planner I bought at Target for $3.98! They had a lot of different patterns but I love cream and gold together and of course stripes! 

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Thirstday

It's Thursday Thirstday! Drink your water ladies! Water is so vital to having a healthy body that I hope you all are getting your 8 glasses per day. I try to have a glass of water next to me all day to make sure I get it all in. What do you do to make sure you get your water?

I accidentally got confused this week on my P90X and did Stretch X on Tuesday instead of Kempo whoops!! Stretch X was super relaxing though it was what I thought the Yoga would have been like but I was wrong! I was terrible at the yoga so I'm going to have to try that one again and try to relax more.  The truth is, I'm not good at letting everything in my mind clear out.  If you are good at that give me some guidance because I have way too much on my brain for that.  I enjoyed Stretch X though I felt way more relaxed with that one besides relaxed my very sore, achy muscles felt amazingly better after it.  Wednesday I did the Kempo which was actually really fun and the workout seemed to go by really quick!  I didn't think I was going to be this addicted to these workouts but really I kinda am.

Another thing, I go through these weird phases with my body where sometimes I feel like I'm really hungry and then other weeks I don't eat much. Do you go through that? Here recently I've been eating just a tad more and I have also been super critical of myself, which I do not like one bit. Why do women have to be critical of their bodies? Oh but I am. I was actually doing really well for a few months being completely happy with everything and then after the holidays (which I did not over indulge, but I did not exercise as much as I was) I have gone back to thinking oh I wish this part was smaller and this was more toned. It's just a cycle with me and I'm not all that proud of it but I figure I should be truthful because maybe you are like that too? so I am not alone? bahh I really wonder if there will ever be a day when I just say I am happy, The End. OR if I will always be chasing something that is unattainable.  I don't know but since this is my blog and I'm a real woman I figured I would share.

I hope you all are having a wonderful day! Oh and please don't worry I don't have body dismorphia, I don't need counseling or anything like that it really is just how I am with most things in life. I critique everything including myself and my work. I'm sure most of you can relate.
*On to more positive thoughts now*

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Super Bowl Weekend

Hey All, Super Bowl is this weekend which means Super Bowl parties.  I hope you all are starting early on planning your method of attack on how to have a great time at these fun social gatherings and staying on track with your goals.  Usually, at these sort of events they are bring a dish to share and a drink.  I always bring something that is on my plan so I know there is at least one thing for me to eat.  I constantly have water with me too, but if you prefer an adult beverage or two just don't forget that they also contain calories and carbs additionally alcohol turns your fat burning abilities off and slows metabolism.  I'm a real party animal and usually stick to water because I'm working hard all week to achieve my goals and I don't want to get detailed by one day.  Also choose your food wisely or practice portion control. Personally, I prefer to eat a light meal that way I'm not so hungry that I'll eat just anything. 

Here are some practical steps to have a good time and keep the focus on your goals. 

1. If you are going to have a "cheat moment" try sampling.  Get one or two of each item. 
2. Having a beer or 2? have water with it.  This will help you from over indulging and keep you hydrated so you won't get hungover. 
3. Bring a dish you know is on your plan and that most people will also enjoy. 
4. Just want to snack? Eat the nuts and veggies. Plenty of protein and fiber. 
5. Be guilt free, if you mess up tomorrow is a different day. Get back up and try again. 

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Monday Funday

Yesterday was Monday and while cleaning the bathrooms I was desperately trying to think of why they call it Monday Funday? What is so fun about a Monday unless you are a hairstylist and you are off work that day. That would be fun, but alas I am not a hairstylist just a mom. I went on to do all my Monday cleaning schedule that way the house would be nice a tidy by 1p.m. when it was time to get my workout done. Do any of you find it so much easier to workout when you have a clean house? I do, I feel like if my house is cluttered then my brain in cluttered.
Do you have a cleaning schedule? I have certain items that I clean on a daily basis but then other things that I do on certain days one of the things I do on Monday is clean our bathrooms including showers. I HATE cleaning the shower, it is hard to do I mean really how dirty can a shower get in one week? Apparently, it can get pretty yucky! You see my husband goes mountain biking on Sunday mornings with his friend and then comes home all muddy and gross then washes it all off  in the shower, lovely right? Well, on Monday I get to clean the shower and make it look pretty again. My husband and I normally share the responsibility of the shower and most chores but seeing how I am home a lot more than he is I just take care of it when I'm already cleaning the rest of the bathroom.  Do you have any magical cleaning products or methods to cleaning your shower? I'll try just about anything.

On a Monday I like to make a meal that can practically make itself and then last awhile so it is usually a crockpot meal simple and easy. The dinner I chose was a pot roast with lots of veggies and cabbage noodles.  I just shred cabbage and add it to the pot and they become like noodles after they have been cooking a long time. Since my husband was working late and my daughter was at Nana's, I enjoyed a quiet dinner with a 2nd viewing of Downton Abbey? Are you a fan? I'm a huge fan, if you've never seen an episode you should, you'll love it. Too many shows on Sunday? PBS app for ipad and pbs.com has it streamable yay!

How was your Monday? All and all mine was good but far from FUN.  Later this week though my adorable nephews will be here and so will my sister-in-law! I'm excited! :)

Monday, January 28, 2013

Five Things

Five Things You Didn't Know About Me

1. I was born in Neptune. (New Jersey)
We only lived there about 6 months after I was born so I call Alabama my home.

2. When I was little I never knew I was Mexican.
When I was a kid the other kids would ask me why I was brown and not white like they were and I would say because I go outside a lot which may have been partly true but really I'm just Mexican.

3. My P.E. coach always said short kids couldn't run like tall kids? Hmm say what Mrs. P.E. teacher? So I never tried to be a runner. I opted for golf!

4. Growing up we had a cat named Lucky that I named after a dog and my cat wasn't very lucky after all.  He was chased down and bitten by my dog who tried to eat him but only got his foot. My kitty had to have surgery to repair his little foot but don't worry he lived to be 17 years old with all his feet intact.

5. Quick Math still gives me trouble. My husband is awesome with quick math but I say give me the calculator it's just not my thing. I'm ok with advanced math like calculus ha.

Well there is my 5 things I hope you'll share some things too!



Friday, January 25, 2013

P90X Week 1

Hey All, I'm nearing my first 5 days of P90x and I'm sore beyond any other workout I have ever done.  I'm sore in places I didn't even know I had and that's exciting. I feel like if I'm not feeling the burn then the workout isn't doing anything for me.  I have been working out consistently for a while now and it is so nice to feel that same excitement of a good workout and that old muscle pain that kept me coming back for more.  I felt like I was really pushing myself and I don't take the "water breaks" that they take because I know I wasn't going right at their level just yet so I would do jumping or "high knees" while they were watering.

 I do want to be clear that I am following the "classic" version there is also a "lean" version which just means you do more cardio and not as much weight training.  However, I truly believe that weight training has so many benefits that I wouldn't want to skimp on that.  I am also not following their nutritional plan or any of their supplement products.  I personally feel very balanced on my plan and wouldn't change that, my protein shake and supplements are all working for me as well so I'm not changing that either.  This week however I have been adding more cabbage into my meals to help with the sore muscles. Cabbage is high in l-glutamine which helps clear the lactic acid in the muscles.

I am really looking forward to my next week with the program, getting stronger and doing more reps.
If you are looking for a new challenge this program may be right for you, especially if you can get it at a good price.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

SIze 0, so Controversial

Size 0 too thin or just right for some? First I must say that a size 0 looks different on everyone. Just because you are a size 0 does't automatically mean you are skin and bones. Over the last 10 years there has been much debate about the infamous size 0 and even worse 00 mainly with the high fashion models being 5'10 and weighing 110lbs therefore being a 00 and entirely too thin. Here is my thing with the whole size 0 thing, if you are petite say 5'2-5'3 and under a size 0 is actually the size most appropriate for you, because for someone your height your target weight is about 115lbs or less*.  Yes that is small and it is ok if you are over that but if you look at any of the charts of height to weight you will see where I am getting my numbers.  I am 115lbs and a medium frame I wear a size 0 in almost all brands and I don't look anorexic at all. I simply look completely average because I am 5'2 and at a healthy *average* weight.

Here is my next point about size 0 and 00 as America has seemingly gotten bigger so have the measurements of women's clothes. A size 6 in the 1950's is more like what we now know as a size 2 today.  In UK sizing the lowest clothes size is a 2 or 4 and that is because the clothes are cut smaller.  Vanity Sizing particularly in high end clothing has become popular as American women have become bigger and companies want to sell more high priced jeans. Research shows when a woman tries on a size 0 pair of jeans she is more likely to buy them with that sweet little number on the tag.  The woman automatically feels more confident and thin in those jeans so you better believe they are going home with her.  Today's size 0 isn't truly the same as small as you think due to vanity sizing.

In following, size really shouldn't be your goal at all, your goal should fall on health. Whatever weight is healthy for your height and frame. Remember to keep your goals in proportion to reality what is really attainable for YOU!

Have comments or opinions on this controversial topic? Start the conversation in the comments below!



*Height to weight charts vary somewhat and some now include body frame measurements.

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

We're growing and it feels so good!

Our group has grown a lot in one month! I'm so happy that all of you are here to join me in my fitness adventure and I hope you're on an adventure of your own. If you are just starting out and need a little help let us know! We have so many accomplished women in our group to help you along the way. Looking for a new gym check out CHAMP GYM http://www.iamchamp.com/, they have so much to offer and have sponsored our 14-day challenge in the past. I must say they are awesome and also offering Cross Fit. Just need a few friends to talk to when you don't feel like eating right and working out? Well we are here for that too, feel free to leave a post on the group page and of course we will all encourage you along the way. If you want a little extra motivation sign up for our 14-day challenges and better yet try challenging yourself like I have done with my 21 days of fitness or sign up for a 5K and CONQUER! I think we have something for every woman even if your goal is to gain weight.  Our facebook group is a closed group for you to feel secure in sharing content and images. I hope that you find inspiration with us everyday and I know that I find inspiration with you all. 

One more thing...I'd like to have contributing blog posts so if you think you would like to write something or contribute to the blog please let me know!! I would love to hear your ideas and thoughts. 

Thanks so much for being here everyday! 
Amanda 

Monday, January 21, 2013

Active Weekends + French Fry Alternative


As I have been trying to keep more active weekends I have noticed that others seem to be doing the same. I notice more people working out, walking, running, and generally seem more active than I did even a year ago. I hope this is a sign that the people of the future plan on taking better care of themselves. I hope that we have had enough information about obesity that we are now changing the statistics. Additionally, when I go out to eat I also see more people eating healthier, subbing out fries for a vegetable or salad.
I feel like just because you are changing the way you eat doesn't mean you are confined to eating at home. We eat out on the weekends and I can pretty much low carb any restaurant so that it fits my plan. I feel like restaurant portions are always huge so when my meal arrives I usually cut everything in half and box up the second half for the next days lunch. Even though my meal may be "healthy" I don't want to stuff myself. What do you do to make your meals out more healthy?


Crispy Green Beans (Gluten Free, Low Carb) 
Ingredients: 
Peanut Oil (enough to cover the bottom of sauce pan) or cooking oil of choice
2 cups green beans (trimmed) 
3/4 cup almond flour 
1/4 cup flax meal 
1 TBS Cajun Seasoning or 1/2 tsp salt 1/2tsp pepper
1-2 eggs or 1/4th cup liquid egg substitute 

Directions:
Method 1: 
Heat a heavy bottomed sauce pan on medium-medium high heat (don't leave unattended). 
On a plate combine almond flour, flax meal, and cajun seasoning. On a second plate crack 1-2 eggs or pour egg substitute and combine with a fork.  Dip trimmed green beans in egg mixture and then into the almond flour mixture coating the green beans evenly.  Carefully place green beans into hot peanut oil and pan fry until golden brown.  Let green beans drain on paper towel until ready to eat. 

Method 2: 
Heat oven to 400 degrees.  Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with non-stick cooking spray and set aside. On a plate comine almond flour, flax meal, and cajun seasoning.  On second plate crack 1-2 eggs or pour liquid egg substitue and combine with fork.  Dip trimmed green beans in egg then into the almond flour mixture until evenly coated.  Place on prepared baking sheet and spray with Extra Virgin Olive Oil Spray place in oven for 15 minutes until golden brown.  Allow green beans to cool a little before eating. Dip in Ketchup or other sauce. 

I have given you 2 methods to cook these because my plan allows for pan frying in peanut oil while yours may not. Please try these out and let me know what you think, I make these quite often and even my kiddo will eat them. 

Saturday, January 19, 2013

P90x

On Friday, I picked up P90X from a lady that was selling the complete system for $10 on a Facebook yard sale page! It was a really great deal considering P90X retails for $140 on Amazon!! Whhhaaat?!? Anyway I'm so excited and I can't wait to try it. Since this series is notoriously very difficult I think I'll form my plan of attack over the weekend. I want to make sure I don't burn myself out but also get the quality workout that I'm used to. I read an article recently that explained how to incorporate P90x into your workout routine. It makes you go a little more slowly but you are more likely to stay with the program. I know I'll be updating all of you on my progress and probably be giving mini reviews as I get more into the workouts. If you have the series and want to do it with me please let me know. We'll stay motivated together!  Happy Saturday!

Peace, Love, and baked chicken?
(Wow! I'm a dork)

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Grandparents and Kids Healthy Lunch Box

Moms,
Do you have trouble disciplining your child when the Grandparents are around? My daughter tends to disobey a little more when she's around my parents because she knows my parents won't say anything to her and well to be honest they spoil her. I remember as a child these same parents were strict with us because they didn't want us to misbehave and become unmanageable.  I have explained many times to both my mom and dad that if I let my daughter do what she wants it will be a lot worse for her in school and later on in life and that is why she must be taught the proper ways to behave. My mom seems to get it but my dad insists on giving her treats even if she doesn't deserve them. It's kind of a hard situation because I know my parents don't mean any harm  but they just love to spoil her since she is the only grandchild. 

I don't necessarily need advice just wondered if anyone else goes through this with their parents? 


Healthy Kids Lunch Box Idea
Ingredients:
Divided Style kids plate or Bento Box Style covered plate
Whole Wheat or Gluten Free Bread 
Turkey 
Cheddar Cheese 
cherry or grape tomatoes 
to go unsweetened apple sauce (or fruit pouch of choice) 
drink of choice

1. Combine bread, turkey, and cheese into a sandwich. I like to use a cookie cutter to have fun shapes for my child. 
2. In one of the side pockets of your plates place cherry or grape tomatoes (these varieties of tomatoes are more kid friendly because they are small, and sweet. 
3. In another side part of your plate place  the unsweetened apple sauce pouch or fruit of choice. 
4. 1 small cowboy cookie will make these meal truly scrumptious. 

*This is my take on a healthy kids lunch box! I hope this helps* 


This is the plate I use and it is BPA-free :)

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

On the Arc

Here on the Arc we will be offering a variety of workouts, Yoga with the kitties, HIIT with the Hippos, and Running with the Gazelles.  Ha, if you aren't local to Alabama then you might be really confused but it has been raining cats and dogs here since Sunday.  All week I have either been pre making meals for the freezer or working out extra long just to burn off some energy since the weather has been so bad.  I'm looking forward to the weekend it is supposed to be clear and NOT raining. In the mean time here is a recipe for an easy breakfast on the go!


Omelet  in a Mug 

Cooking Spray or butter
1 TBS almond milk(non- flavored) or milk
1-2 eggs
dash pepper
dash salt
mushrooms diced
green pepper diced
onion diced
shredded cheese

1. Spray mug with cooking spray or butter the mug
2. Add in eggs, salt and pepper, mushrooms, green pepper, onion, and almond milk
3. Whip with a fork until scrambled and combined
4. Microwave mixture for 35-45 seconds for 1 egg and 1 min 25 sec.- 1 min 45 sec.  (depending on your microwave.  Eggs will be set when fully cooked. Let stand 1-2 minutes.
5. Use fork to break apart the eggs
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over top.
7. Enjoy!

This is a great way to get a good breakfast on the go. You can change the toppings for any other veggies you may like, I've used spinach and broccoli before but you can use whatever you have on hand.  This also works with egg whites.

Nutritional Info may vary according to toppings.
Serving Size: 1 egg mug
Nutritional Info: Calories:170 Sodium:334mg Carbs:1.1g Sugar:.1g Protein: 6.9g


Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Meal Plan


This is my meal plan in accordance with my lifestyle. Do you meal plan? I think it is super important to stay on track. 



Meal Plan January 14th-January 20th
Meats: Chicken, ground beef, fish
Premade: Waffles, chocolate, peanut butter cupcakes, and peanut butter blondies
Recipes Available at: Mariahealth.blogspot.com and yourlighterside.com
Lifestyle: Low carb, gluten free, sugar free, higher fat, higher calorie foods

Monday:
Breakfast: Maria’s Protein Waffle with bacon
Lunch: Protein Shake
Dinner: Date Night

Tuesday:
Breakfast: Waffle
Lunch: Protein Shake
Dinner: Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
Dessert: So Delicious Unsweetened Ice cream

Wednesday:
Breakfast: Maria’s Flappers (Maria’s take on pancakes)
Lunch: Protein Shake
Dinner: Meatloaf with broccoli and cauliflower mashed “faux” potatoes 

Thursday:
Breakfast: Eggs and Bacon
Lunch: Protein Shake
Dinner: Parmesan encrusted catfish pan fired in peanut oil 
Dessert: Candice’s peanut butter chocolate cupcake

Friday:
Breakfast: Waffle
Lunch: Protein Shake
Dinner: Cauliflower Crust Pizza or dinner out with the in-laws

Saturday:
Breakfast: Eggs and Bacon
Lunch: Lettuce Wrap Sandwich
Dinner: Hamburgers with crispy green beans
Dessert: Candice’s Peanut butter Blondie
 
Sunday:
Breakfast: Bacon, egg and cheese on Maria’s Bagel
Lunch: Tuna Salad
Dinner: Pot Roast 

About Me

My History:
I've been "dieting" most of my life since I was an over weight child. My dieting adventures began when I was 6. My pediatrician advised my parents to put me on a low fat, low calorie diet after I had gained a substantial amount of weight out of no where. I really never could stick with the dieting thing. I was so young and all my friends were eating so many yummy things that I couldn't have and it was so hard. When I was in 7th grade the Atkins diet hit the health world and I jumped on it. It turned out to really work for me and I stayed with it for a long time until I was about 16 and went out a lot with friends and had a job. The weight really never came back until pregnancy.  In my pregnancy I gained 70 pounds and it was a difficult pregnancy.  I was on bed rest for nearly 4 months and my blood pressure was stroke level. After the baby I turned again to low carb living. It was much harder to get the weight off the second time.  November 2011 I found Maria Emmerich a nutritionist and low carb, gluten free, sugar free food blogger and my next chapter in weight loss began. I'm so happy to be able to both share my thoughts, opinions and amateur knowledge of health and fitness.

I hope this new blog will add a new dynamic to FitMom. I felt like there is only so much you can share on a facebook group page.  Additionally, if you would like to contribute a blog post please let me know. I would love to have a few of you share your experiences, thoughts and opinions.