Wordless Wednesday

Happy Mamavation Monday!

It's Monday, and I FINALLY have some great news for you! Though I've got to keep it short and sweet.

First off, Lil P is still sick, but gradually, and I mean gradually, getting better. BUT, I'm not eating myself happy over it anymore! Score!

AND, I'm back to taking my weight loss seriously! I've worked out for the past two days and ate well for the past two days as well. Double Score!

I look forward to posting a heck of a loss next week!

Mother Knows Best

Holy Cow! I blinked and April is already half over! And you know how the old adage, April showers bring May flowers, just in time for mother's day! Okay, okay, so it really doesn't quite go like that, but moms do like to get flowers for mother's day. 

 But sadly flowers die, and memories last a lifetime. I know that I would much prefer a keepsake or memento that I can keep for ever, to some flowers that will wilt and die, and stink up my house, because I enevitably won't change thier water until it's green. Whoops.

The reason I am so fond of mementos and keepsakes is because I don't have as many memories of my mother as most, she passed away when I was eight. But I always look at pictures of us together, and things she bought for me, and I know that she's still here, watching over me.

Though I was too young when my mother passed to ever have any parenting advice passed on from her, I've received copious amounts of advice from her. The kind of advice that can only been seen from an adult, and mother's perspective. For example, the biggest lesson on parenting that my mother instilled in me is to love your kids, but to always remind them that mother knows best.

To be honest, I never really took that piece of advice to heart, or even cared about it until I became a mother myself. In fact, I often found myself testing that sage piece of advice, and I assure you, I'm getting "paid back" for when my son tests me and my patience.

I often find myself telling him that if he would just listen to me, life would be much simpler. Less hard, and less horrible, especially when he's in the middle of a temper tantrum. That I love him, and that I wouldn't say the things I say, or do the things I do, if I didn't.

And as simple as that sounds, hearing those types of things from my mom when I was younger, let me know that she cared about me, and instilled in me a confidence and appreciation for her that I can only now see as an adult.

It's also fun to reflect back on, and to have those, "Ugh, I sound like my mother" moments. But, I always know that when I have those moments and reflections, they are filled with love.

So why not share a little love on mother's day with your mom, grandma, mother-in-law, godmother, or any other mother in your life. Tiny Prints offers a fabulous selection of mother's day cards, that aren't just cards, because they are customized with your photos, making them a keepsake as well! And what mom doesn't love a keepsake of her kids?!

While you're searching for the perfect Mother's Day card, browse the rest of Tiny Prints website. Tiny Prints provides simple, modern and unique stationery from Fathers Day Cards to personalized greeting cards to thank you cards, business cards, and even custom wedding invitations or photo birth announcements. Offering exclusive designs from the nation’s top designers, easy card personalization, a powerful preview engine and top-notch customer service and paper quality, their designs have been lauded by numerous television networks, publications and celebrities. With Tiny Prints by your side commemorating every holiday and momentous occasion is a cinch! They offer perfect party invitations for every occasion and memorable personalized photo-gifts like notebooks, photo books and calendars to commemorate the event.

 

This article was written for the Tiny Prints Mother's Day Campaign. I will be receiving compensation for this post. 

HAPPY MAMAVATION (Wait, what day of the week is it...)

Holy cow, I just realized that today is Wednesday! Where did Monday go? I'm pretty sure it didn't stop by my house this week!

For those of you that follow me on Twitter and on Facebook, you know that since about last Thursday, I've had one sick little boy. I took him to the doctor on Monday, (hey, looks like there was a Monday this week) to find out that he has the stomach flu. Dr. said that he should be on the up-swing, and although he isn't having liquid poo explosions any more, he's still oozing foulness from the bum.

I'm beginning to wonder if what he has really is the stomach flu, or if it's something else, like an allergy. Only time will tell I suppose.

Needless to say, I haven't had a very productive week. I've eaten like crap, since everything had to be fast, so I could continue taking care of my sickiepoo. But I got in a workout this morning, while the lil one is napping! A whole 40 mins of Yoga Booty Ballet (not to mention a shower!)  

Victory!

I hope I have better news for you next week!

Cleaning My Way Skinny

Whew! I'm dripping sweat! And you know what that means! Burning calories!

When maintaining a household we all have to clean. Love it or hate it, we've just got to do it. And with my weekends being jam packed, cleaning is how I get my workout in.

You may not realize it, but cleaning burns a TON of calories! If you're like me, you have a "cleaning day". One designated day of the week where all most of the cleaning gets gets done. For me, this can take anywhere from a 30 mins to 3 hours.

But the longer I'm at it, the more calories I burn! Which means I can eat more food! Whoo hooo!

Some of the most common household chores also have the biggest burn. For example:

Scrubbing the bathroom, 30 mins = 200 calories burned
Cleaning glass, windows, mirrors 30 mins = 125 calories burned
Vacuuming 30 mins = 90 calories burned
Dusting 30 mins = 50 calories burned

If you're curious, all those chores over the course of 2 hours, burns about 465 calories! That's equivalent to a Taco Bell Burrito Supreme with Steak!

You can also ramp up your chore's burn. Try incorporating exercises into your chores, like doing lunges while vacuuming. Or squats while doing laundry. You'll tone up, burn calories, and improve your balance!

With all of this talk about cleaning, I'm curious. What is your favorite chore? What is your least favorite chore?

A Giveaway Just In Time for The Ultimate Blog Party!

Spring has sprung, in some places more than others. But now that the weather is getting nicer, we have the perfect excuse to get outside and get moving! And what would be better than some new tunes on your iPod to carry you through those outdoor adventures!

That's why in honor of The Ultimate Blog Party 2011, hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom, I'll be giving away a $15 dollar iTunes Gift Card!

There's a couple different ways to earn entries into this drawing, so start racking up your entries. Final entries are due April 8 by 11:59pm EST!

Step One: Hit the Linky (Include your twitter name so I can contact you if you win)

Step Two: Earn Your Entries! (Make sure you leave a comment for each and the URL to your "proof of participation")

1. Follow me @LisaVFitness on Twitter (1 entry)
2. Follow my blog via Google Friend Connect (Follow button-it's on the right side) (1 entry)
3. Share this post on your Facebook (1 entry per day)
4. Tweet out this message (Up to 10 entries--DO NOT SPAM):

"Win a $15 iTunes gift card from @LisaVFitness! Enter here: http://bit.ly/gRH8J0"

Happy Winning!

It's Party Time!

Since I found out about The Ultimate Blog Party I've been on pins and needles waiting for it to begin! This is my first year participating and I'm super excited!

Let me welcome you to Mommy Vs. Fitness!

This blog is kind of new. And I'm still working to get it where I want it to be! I know you can all relate! So make sure to follow me, and watch me grow!

Mommy Vs. Fitness is a kind of hybrid site. I blog about all things fitness. But my definition of fitness is more than just talking about how to get rid of your muffin top. My take on fitness is that it's a whole body, whole life experience. Being "fit" is a general state of well-being. That's why I cover a whole range of topics, all relevant to mommyhood and womanhood; sanity savers, butt busters, money savers, and the occasional freebie!

I also do the occasional giveaway (I'm working on one for this week as we speak--it's up now, here!), but rest assured. As I grow, I'll be giving more and more away!

I also donated a prize to the prize pool! The Yoga Booty Ballet Classics collection! So make sure you check it out and add it to your list if you want it!

I love making new bloggie friends! So leave me a lil comment love and be sure to include a link to your blog, and I'll be sure to visit you!

Let's Party!!!

Get Ready To Bust A Move!

From time to time, I like a to take a little break from my health and fitness journey to introduce you to something that I think is truly great, and a great bargain! Remember, life is more than being physically fit, but also emotionally and financially fit as well! That is why, when it came to saving my sanity on my wedding day, I trusted Dramatic Dimensions Entertainment.

Way back, In October 2008, my husband and I had our Wedding Reception at a barn in Ann Arbor, MI. It was a spectacularly beautiful yet awkward venue. With 20ft vaulted ceilings and gymnasium lighting, it seemed that having appropriate lighting for a wedding was going to be impossible. But, Dramatic Dimensions had us covered. They were able to work within the awkward space and provided with us with ambient lighting during dinner, and festive "party" lighting complete with disco ball, during dancing. It was incredible!

And that was just the lighting!

The music was awesome too! Our guests kept going on and on about how our reception was the most danceable reception that they had been to in a long time. The song catalog that Dramatic Dimensions has is incredible. I swear, they have just about every song--EVER! You can browse the complete selection online and compose your own unique playlist, as well a specify what songs you DON'T want to hear on your special day. So if you hate the Macarena, you won't have to hear it!

But the real sanity savers of Dramatic Dimensions are the owners and DJs Mike and Joe.

These guys know their stuff. They are extremely professional, got back to us in a timely manner when we had questions, and devoted the time to our event that you just won't get from corporate chains.
They also know how to keep the party going, late in the evening, after most of our guests had already gone home, Mike and Joe kept pumpin' the jams and keeping the few of us that had stuck around entertained. With permission, they busted out the Limbo stick, and we had a blast!

I loved working with Dramatic Dimensions for my wedding, I would recommend them to anyone looking for a stellar DJ service! Chose them, you won't regret it. I don't!

These Feet Were Made For Walkin....

And that's just what they'll do!

I had an awesome week this week! Or so I thought! I GAINED another 0.8 this week. The most frustrating part is that I stayed on plan with Weight Watchers all week! This really has me fed up--and upset. Which has had me on an emotional eating bender.

I can't even remember how many pieces of left over birthday cake (Parker turned 1 this past weekend) I've eaten. And I'm disgusted with myself. Enter more sadness, enter more eating. It's a vicious freaking cycle. Ugh.

So I have a new plan (Funny, I seem to have one every week lately). My feet and I are going to start training for a 5k. I have NEVER ran for 3.11 miles, I'd be lucky if I could run for 3 minutes! I'm not planning on running some super serious race or anything, but a mapped out 3.11 miles around the neighborhood small steps. I love seeing the sights, and living near a lake and a downtown, it's a wonder why I haven't got my butt out to see it!

The biggest problem I have with trying to sneak in a workout is that I have a time-sucking infant. But I'm hopeful that fitting in some running and walking will be easy. I can put the baby in the stroller and just take off. And with the warmer weather coming hopefully, it's just a no-brainer to get my fat behind outside.

This small goal of running a 5k is going to help me with my 2 larger goals.

Goal 1
This summer, I intend on walking to my local farmer's market whenever I go. Then hoofin' my whole lot home. 10-25 lbs of produce strapped to my back is bound to burn some extra calories!

Goal 2
Those of you that know me know that I lost my mom at age 8 due to complications of Diabetes. I do the ADA's Walk for Diabetes every year in memory of my mom. This fall, I'm going to run it. The course is 6.8 miles. And I'm going to make my mom proud.

Maybe, I'll be sportin' a sweet new pair of Earth Footwear to all of these places my feet will be taking me!

Back at it! And feeling good!

Happy Monday Mamas! I'm having a good day, and I hope you are too! It's no secret that I haven't been "trying" particularly hard to see a drop on the scale lately. But I would like to report that I am officially back on track.

I had a victory yesterday! I tracked my food all day, watched my portions, and met my Points+ goals! Hooray! I can't even tell you how long it's been since I've done one of those things, let alone all three!

The best part about putting in the work yesterday was the reward. I actually feel proud of myself. And with that pride, I feel like I can keep moving forward.

I know this week will not be without challenges though. On Friday is my son's 1st birthday, followed by his party on Saturday. As if having tons of food around on Saturday isn't going to be challenge enough, I'm also kind of depressed. I can't believe my little baby is already a year old! I've been reflecting back a lot on the past year, and it makes me a little emotional. With all of these emotions flowing--I'm going to try my hardest to stay out of the sweets.

To answer the mamavation question of the week: Am I a sweet or savory snacker? What do I look for in a healthy snack?

I would say that my snacking tendencies change with my mood. If I'm sad or PMSing, I usually prefer sweet. If I'm angry, I prefer salty/savory. It's quite strange that I can decipher my mood by my emotional eating I think.

Lately, I've been trying to eat String cheese, fruit, or popcorn for my healthy snacks. I've been trying to stay away from 100 calorie packs of goodies, because they just perpetuate my sweet tooth. The others seem to kill it!

I wish everyone a wonderful week! Be strong! Be powerful! You can do it!

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Even if you aren't Irish, you're probably "Irish" today, or at least sportin' some green. At least I am.

St. Patrick's day is another holiday where we Americans INDULGE. We eat corned beef and cabbage, and DRINK. And some of us DRINK and DRINK and DRINK. Everyone celebrates in thier own way.

However, as I'm driving around town today, I can't help but be extra alert. I know people have been at the bar since the sun came up, throwing back beer after beer. And I can't help but wonder if one of those people have gotten behind the wheel of a car, particularly because I have my infant son in mine.

On St. Patrick’s Day 2009, 37 percent of the drivers and motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or above, according to statistics by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). That's more than a QUARTER of all traffic fatalities! A pretty sobering statistic if you ask me.

BUT, what's even more sobering, is that Drinking and Driving is completely preventable! If you are partaking this St. Patty's day, plan ahead. Designate a sober driver BEFORE you leave for your event. And always be ready to take alternate transportation, like a bus, taxi, or even a "designated driver" car service. The cost of these services are minimal compared to the cost of a DUI, or the cost of someone's life!

Even if you will not be celebrating this St. Patrick’s Day, keep in mind that in 2009, 1,119 occupants of other vehicles were killed in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers, so pay attention to others on the road. And remember, you don’t have to be “falling down drunk” to be too impaired to drive safely. Even a few drinks can impair driving…and a buzzed driving crash has the same consequences as a drunk driving crash.

Remember, buzzed driving IS drunk driving. Have a wonderful St. Patrick's Day and BE SAFE OUT THERE!

I'm a Cinch! Failure

It's time for me to come clean. I failed the Cinch! Five day fast forward the first night. I ate breakfast and lunch and I felt good! I was satisfied, wasn't hungry, felt "lighter" and had more energy. But by 4pm on Day 1, I was ravenous. I was so hungry that I was getting physically ill.

As instructed in the book, I ate another serving of yogurt, to try and make my hungry subside. But I think the psychological damage of being that hungry was already done. And I went on a MASSIVE binge. I couldn't get enough food!

So I'm a fast forward failure.

However, I am not giving up! Cinch! is not just the "cleanse" portion, and even in the book Cynthia explains that the 5 day 5 food fast forward plan is not for everyone. But you can still do the Cinch! primary program. And that's what I intend to do.

The Cinch! (Main) plan is based on 5 "puzzle pieces", that come together to create your meals. In the book, Cynthia provides the foods that fall into the 5 different categories and the proper serving sizes for the plan.

It seems like I'll need a lot less "willpower" to make it through the main portion of the plan.

As always, I'll keep you updated!

Mamavation Monday--When to work out.

To workout, or not to workout? That is the question. I think every mom on the planet has some part of their body that they are unhappy with and would like to change. The only problem, we know that in order to change it, we must get active and workout. Ugh! And who has time for that?!?

YOU DO! Schedule your time! That's what I have to do. It's the only way I'm able to guarentee that I get my workout in. My workout time is when my son is napping. I get an hour and a half to myself to get my sweat on.

When my son is napping is the best time for me. It may not be the best time for you. I like to workout in the mid-morning (that's his nap time). I've eaten breakfast. My food has had time to settle. The sun is out, well, most of the time. And usually, there's nothing on TV anyway, so my distractions are weeded out.

You know yourself better than anyone else, and you are the only one that knows what's best for you! I know that if I don't workout in the mid-morning during my son's naptime, that working out is just not going to happen that day. Sure, I might be able to take my son for a walk in the stroller, but my workout is not going to be anywhere near as intense as it would have been had I worked out by myself in the morning.

And who doesn't want to get maximum calorie incineration in minimum time!

What's funny, is I know these things. I know that I have to schedule my workout during my optimum time. But I haven't been as good as I could have been this past week. I didn't work as intensely as I should have and I ate some things that I know I shouldn't have. And I've maintained my weight this week. Which, is better than gaining but still unacceptible in my eyes.

And I can't preach finding your optimum workout time and scheduling it if I'm not doing it myself. So that is my goal for the coming week. Schedule my workouts, and when I'm doing them, DO THEM!

***This post was in response to the question:
What time of day works best for you to be active? How do you make sure you stick to those planned workouts?***

The Beginning of an Era...

Tomorrow is the big day. Tomorrow I commit to the Cinch! 5 day, 5 food, fast forward. And I must admit; I'm scared. I've really wanted to try this method of losing weight since I attended a Twitter party, and spoke with the author, Cynthia Sass.

Cynthia is AMAZING. I first learned of her when she was the "nutrition lady" on The Mike and Juliet show. I loved watching her do her segments that were similar to the "Eat This, Not That" series. And now she has authored her second book (her first was The Flat Belly Diet) called Cinch!.

But, I'm still scared. For the next 5 days, I will survive on 4 meals a day. Each of these four meals will consist of 5 ingredients.

Spinach
Eggs
Almonds
Raspberries
and
Yogurt

Every day I will eat the same meals, seasoned with "SASS" seasonings.

An Egg Scramble
A Parfait
A Salad
and
A Smoothie

As for fluids, I'll be drinking between 64 and 80oz of water and 8oz green tea factored into the water amount.

This "cleanse" is supposed to help detox my body, and re-train my tastebuds and thier eating habits to a healthier lifestyle. Which I deperatly need right now. Over the next 5 days I'll keep you posted on how I feel, and how much weight I lose.

Here's to losing weight and detoxing!

*DISCLAIMER: I AM DOING THIS DETOX OF MY OWN ACCORD, AND I AM NOT BEING COMPENSATED IN ANY WAY*