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.