Putting Weight Loss Into Perspective - What Have You Lost?

Many of you have been following my weight loss journey, and some of you are on a weight loss journey of your own.  Part of losing weight and getting fit is putting things and life into perspective.  Am I right?  Well, have you ever  wondered what your weight loss could be compared to?

 I got this from another forum and thought it was fun and perfect for my current Get Fit Guide.

1 pound = a Guinea Pig
1.5 pounds = a dozen Krispy Kreme glazed donuts
2 pounds = a rack of baby back ribs
3 pounds = an average human brain
4 pounds = an ostrich egg
5 pounds = a Chihuahua
6 pounds = a human skin
7.5 pounds = an average newborn
8 pounds = a human head
10 pounds= chemical additives an American consumes each year
11 pounds = an average house cat
12 pounds = a Bald Eagle
15 pounds = 10 dozen large eggs
16 pounds = a sperm whale's brain
20 pounds = an automobile tire
23 pounds = amount of pizza an average American eats in a year
24 pounds = a 3-gallon tub of super premium ice cream
25 pounds = an average 2 year old
30 pounds = amount of cheese an average American eats in a year

Purex Crystals for Baby (Review & Giveaway)

I want to know that the clothes that I put on my baby and children are clean and fresh.

The newest member of the Purex Crystals family was made specifically with babies’ gentle skin in mind.

 With Purex Crystals for Baby, I am confident that I am getting those results.  Not only do they preserve the flame retardant benefits of your children’s clothes, they leave baby clothes (and towels) smelling fresh and clean, soft and static-free!

 The first thing I noticed (almost immediately) was the scent. Purex Crystals for Baby smell  light, fragrant and calming... making them perfect for baby and their delicate skin.  Safe, gentle and effective - exactly what mom ordered!

Purex Crystals for Baby work the same way in both top loaders and HE washers. Simply pour the crystals directly onto your laundry in the washer’s drum and then start the load of laundry. The crystals do not go into the fabric softener dispenser!

Purex Crystals for Baby are safe for all laundry and will not harm, wear down or discolor your fabrics like oil-based softeners. They are also hypoallergenic, dye free and 87% natural!

The product won’t harm your clothes and is safe and convenient for the entire family, not only the little ones!

Giveaway Ending Tonight: WIN a FREE WEEK of Nutrisystem!

Don't miss the opportunity to "try it before you buy it!"  Nutrisystem really works, I lost 56 pounds in just 7 months and the food tastes amazing!

Be sure to enter for your chance to WIN a Nutrisystem 7 Day Trial!

Set the Perfect Party Table: Birthday Express Party Pack (Review & Giveaway)

Planning the perfect birthday party for my kids has always been one of my favorite things.  It is a special day that I look forward to each and every year.  When they were younger, choosing the perfect party theme and party supplies was simple. But as they get older the choice becomes a little more difficult, no more cute and sweet birthday party themes.

My daughter turned 9 this year, and she chose to have a slumber party with a tie dye theme!  I love to coordinate every aspect of their birthday parties, so my top priority was finding invitations, decorations, party favors and tableware.

The Tie Dye Fun deluxe party pack included all the essentials for the perfect party.   Invitations, dinner plates, cups, forks, spoons, activity placemats, napkins, centerpiece, tablecloth, mylar balloon, 18 balloons (3 different colors), curling ribbon (3 colors), crepe paper (3 colors), confetti and cake candles.

The colors were bright and vivid, and I was highly impressed with the quality and durability of each product!  They aren't your ordinary "throw-away" items that rip or tear with the slightest of use.  In fact, the children used their paper cups all evening, refill and refill and the tablecloth has been on our kitchen table for over a month now.

A New Stage in my Weight Loss Journey has Begun!

Today is the beginning of a new stage in my weight loss journey.  In recent weeks the number on the scale hasn't moved, but I have noticed that my clothes are getting loose in certain areas.  I know that getting fit and losing weight isn't only about the number on the scale, but also about the way you feel and what you have been able to accomplish in the process.



My new Smooth Fitness treadmill has arrived and I'm hopeful that by switching up my morning exercise routine that the number on the scale will start to drop again!  These last 10 pounds don't seem to want to come off - but I confident that I am going to win this battle!

IHOP Launches NEW Griddle Melt Breakfast Sandwiches!

My favorite meal has always been breakfast.  French toast, omelettes, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches...  Did you know that breakfast sandwiches are the largest selling breakfast items out of the home, with more than 55 billion servings consumed each year? 

 IHOP has recently added new, mouth-watering Griddle Melts breakfast sandwiches to their menu, and I can't wait to try them.  "Bursting with flavor, Griddle Melts are a meal in themselves, a hearty breakfast sandwich that our guests will want to sit down and savor." - Franco   

While others may offer guests breakfast sandwiches that are pre-made in advance, every single Griddle Melt sandwich is custom made for freshness and maximum flavor!    

Spinach, Roasted Pepper & Cheese:  Sautéed spinach in a fluffy egg omelet topped with roasted red peppers, onions, melted Provolone, Parmesan and Pepper Jack cheeses on grilled artisan sourdough bread. Served with your choice of hash browns, French fries or seasonal fruit.

Spring into Fitness - BeFit in 90‏: Free Fitness Programs!

Summer is just a few short months away and now is the perfect time to start getting in shape.  Lionsgate BeFit, a free workout channel on YouTube, features "BeFit in 90" a free fitness program that provides a unique daily 35-minute workout for 90 days.  Blending strength, cardio, flexibility, yoga and high intensity drills to boost metabolism, "BeFit in 90" helps people get the most out of a short workout.

With a variety of workout programs available, you can target your "trouble areas" to maximize results!

BeFit in 90

BeFit in 90 is a 90-day Workout System that includes total body circuit and cross-training workout systems such as strength, cardio, flexibility, yoga and high intensity drills. Taking just 35 minutes each day, the "BeFit in 90" playlist has a video for each of the 90 days, hosted by fitness trainers Samantha Clayton and Garret Amerine.

30 Day 6-Pack Abs

Are You Red Carpet Ready? Wholly Guacamole & Daily's Cocktails Giveaway!

Are you ready to watch all of your favorite movie stars walk down the red carpet? I'm gearing up for the Oscar's with Wholly Guacamole and Daily's Cocktails! 

No matter who is attending your party, Wholly Guacamole is sure to have something to satisfy even the pickiest critic!   Wholly has a wide variety of guacamole and salsa flavors that will spice things up!  From classic and spicy guacamole, to red pepper mango salsa!

Which variety is my favorite?  I honestly do not think that I can declare one flavor victorious over the others.  

Each one is  bursting with flavor, and perfect for dipping and topping your favorite foods.  They are all mouth-watering... in dips, on chips, burgers and even sandwiches... simply DELICIOUS! 

What could be better than cuddling up on the couch, watching a chick flick and enjoying snacks and a fruity frozen drink?  Daily's Cocktails require no mixing of ingredients, ice or blenders. Simply place the liquid pouch in the freezer for five hours (or until frozen), gently massage, tear open the top, squeeze to pour into a glass and enjoy a smooth frozen wine cocktail!

Improve Your Diet by Using Portion Control

Serving sizes are really a magical and mysterious thing. They don't seem like they'd be all that hidden to the majority of us, but they are! In fact, just by learning to pay attention to portion sizes and serving sizes, you could easily lose weight without really trying all that hard! Seriously: before you purchase anything or put it into your shopping cart, flip the packaging over and look at the serving size. You'd be surprised by how things will trick you. 

That small bag of chips near the checkout counter? I bet you'd be surprised to know that a lot of those contain two or three servings in just one bag. Most grab-and-go soda bottles? Those sometimes contain two servings in just the one bottle. Those quick-and-easy Mac and Cheese boxed dinners? Those usually have four to six servings in them. 

For example, did you know that ONE (yes, JUST ONE) Triple Double Stuffed Oreo Cookie is 100 calories? How many people eat JUST one? Eat just ten of those in a sitting, and you've now eaten about half of the calories you're supposed to have in a day. Did you eat them with milk? Well, now there's even LESS calories for the rest of your meals. Just by being an observant person about your food choices, you can avoid making accidental mistakes like that. (I honestly haven't touched Oreo cookies since I saw the astounding nutritional facts - I could easily have much more delicious food, such as my favorite diet Starbucks drink, for the same amount of calories as just ONE cookie. It just doesn't seem worth it anymore.) 

Kohl's Children's Clothing Clearance Deals: Spent $113 - Saved $500

Anytime I go children's clothes shopping, I head straight to the clearance section.  This allows me to get the most for my money, while dressing both of my children in the latest styles and fashions.  I always get excited to see (and share) just how much money I can save by shopping clearance and stacking it with coupon savings.

I my most recent trip to Kohl's, I was able to get both of my kids some new clothes, and I ended up saving a whopping $500! 

My Kohl’s Children's Clothing Clearance Deals:

For my daughter:  

Red long sleeve shirt on clearance at Kohl’s for $3.60 (Regular price $18)

Long sleeve shirt w/matching hat on clearance for $3.80 (Regular price $32) 
Reversible fleece jacket on clearance for $8.00 (Regular price $40)

Sweater dress/pant set on clearance at Kohl’s for $13.20 (Regular price $62)

short sleeve shirt/pant set on clearance for $11.20 (Regular price $56) 
 Long sleeve shirt/pant set on clearance for $12.40 (Regular price $66)

For my son:

You're Never Too Young to Exercise & Workout!

Did you know that childhood obesity currently affects 17% of all children and adolescents in the United States?  As a mom, these statistics are very concerning!

My nephew on a mini treadmill at his Mommy's gym!

 As a parent of two young children (ages 9 and 12), it has always been a priority to keep them both active in sports and after-school activities.  My oldest started playing soccer when he was 3 years old, and my youngest started dance class when she was just 2 1/2 years old.

Currently, my son is in wrestling.  He has practices 2 - 3 days per week and tournaments on Saturdays.  My daughter is in a Zumba class on Tuesdays, and a swim class on Thursdays.   Cross country will be starting mid-March and they are both signed up for that already.

We also love to go for walks, ride bikes, and other fun outdoor activities.  We walk several local fun runs every Spring, including the MS Walk, Spring Dash, and Bloomsday.  

Boogie Wipes Keep Sore Noses Away - Review & Giveaway

Cold and flu season is upon us and with that comes runny noses! We all know that boogies, runny and stuffy noses aren't much fun, but no matter how hard we try to keep our kids healthy, they are bound to catch a cold and get a runny nose (or two). Even as adults, we know how sore noses can get from constant wiping.

For all of those sore little noses, Boogie Wipes come to the rescue! Boogie Wipes are made with natural saline to dissolve boogies (mucus) caused by the common cold, allergies or all of those other booger-filled kid moments.  

Boogie Wipes are super soft and moist. They contain both Aloe and Vitamin E. They cool and soothe noses with each use. Making it easy and painless to wipe those runny and boogie dried little noses. No need to pinch and squish, causing your children to squirm and fuss wiping their noses.

Boogie Wipes are available in Great Grape, Fresh Scent, Magic Menthol and Simply Unscented. Our favorite is hands down, Great Grape! My 9 year old daughter says... "I could sniff these all day long, it smells soooooooo good!"

Negative Calorie Foods - Burn More Calories

Apples, broccoli, carrots, celery, and oranges...  What do they all have in common?  They are among those wonderful negative calorie foods!  Also known as zero calorie foods, these fruits and vegetables take more energy to digest than they contain in calories.  Your body actually burns off more calories in consumption than the foods supply.

For healthy weight loss and a little extra boost, add some of these foods to your diet each day.  You'll be glad you did!

$20 Kohl’s Cash - Clearance Deals: Spent $0.84 - Saved $64

Today I did something that I haven't done in a very long time... I bought some new clothes for myself!  That's right!  I don't know what came over me, but I actually managed to get out of the store without putting them back and buying something for the kids instead!  I'm actually pretty proud of myself.

My $20 Kohl’s Cash Shopping Trip:

Workout Tee on clearance at Kohl’s for $6.99 (Regular price $14)

Knit Long Sleeve Tee on clearance for $6.00 (Regular price $20)
Sportswear Tee on clearance for $3.00 (Regular price $15)
Knit Long Sleeve Tee on clearance for $4.80 (Regular price $16) 

- $20 Kohl’s cash

Tax $0.05

Total out of pocket $0.84

Total saved $64.21

Just $0.21 EACH!

In addition, I also purchased myself a pair of workout pants at JCP.  I had a $10 off $10 purchase coupon, and wanted to combine that with an item that was on clearance to maximize my savings.

2013 Get Fit Guide: Health & Fitness Reviews & Giveaways

Check out the 2013 Get Fit Guide at Being Frugal and Making it Work --- Lots of great health and fitness products are being featured, and you can win some too! Product features from brands including Nutrisystem, Lean Pockets, Celsius, Zaggora, EatSmart, Crystal Light, Nuvia Trim, Nectresse, and so many more...

Celsius Negative Calorie Drink (Review and Giveaway)

I was first introduced to Celsius negative calorie drink at Costco.  It happened to be one of their sample products on one of our many visits.  I really liked the taste and loved the benefits that it promoted.  The thing that instantly captured my attention was that is is suppose to help burn up to 100 calories with each can. 

I am a stay-at-home mother of two children and lets just say that I need all the "extra" energy that I can possibly get.  I find that when I drink a Celsius first thing in the morning I feel energized and ready to face whatever the day may bring. 

Celsius helps you get fit and stay fit. Celsius is your partner whether you walk the dog or workout at the gym. Studies show that drinking a great tasting Celsius before you exercise may help you burn calories, raise metabolism and provide lasting energy to power you through your routine and beyond.

Even better, studies show Celsius may reduce body fat, increase endurance and provide greater resistance to fatigue (increased energy). 

• No Sugar
• Low Calorie
• No Aspartame
• Low Sodium
• No Artificial Preservatives
• No High Fructose Corn Syrup
• No Artificial Flavors or Colors

I've never been one to follow weight loss fads or use products that promised miracle results. I think that losing weight takes much more than a magical pill or drink.  I believe that it takes determination, dedication and an overall lifestyle change in order to see direct results.

Do I think that Celsius has helped me on my weight loss journey?  Absolutely!  I like to think of it as my little secret weapon.  It seems to give me that added boost of energy to help keep me focused on my goal.

The flavors are wonderful, and I love the fact that there is enough variety that I'm not going to get tired of drinking the same flavor over and over again.  Too much of one thing can cause a person to get bored and/or give up.  I don't have to worry about that at all.  

I also love the convenient Celsius on-the-go packets.  I keep a few in my purse, so I always have them with me.  I just add them to a bottle of water and I'm ready to go!

Celsius comes in a variety of delicious and satisfying flavors:

Heart Pounding Family Fun: Monster Jam 2013

Last night we spent a heart pounding evening  of family fun watching monster trucks tear up the Spokane Arena.  Monster Jam is in town, along with a few fan favorites: Grave Digger, Team Hot Wheels and Batman!

My kids are 9 and 12, and they couldn't wait for the show to begin.  When the first monster truck fired up its engine and roared around the Arena, their faces lit up with excitement and their hearts were pounding from the force... literally!

The roar of the crowd, the feel of your seat rumbling, your heart pounding as the trucks roared past... everything about Monster Jam screams fun and excitement!  We couldn't believe how much "AIR" these big monster trucks were getting as they jumped over the smashed cars!

 

Of course, there was more exciting action to put you on the edge of your seat... quad races and the Sphere of Fear! 

Simple Changes for A Better You!

With every new year comes new goals.  I don't make New Year resolutions, I simply promise myself to make simple life changes.  I think life changes are easier to maintain than resolutions are.  Although, it might simply be just mind over matter.  Call it what you wish, but making better choices will make for a better year.

  
My main focus this year is to lose weight, another 10 - 15 pounds is my goal.  In the last 7 months I've lost 56 pounds.  Simply by cutting back on my portion sizes, exercising 3 days a week and snacking better.  It really is the little things that make the biggest difference.  For example: instead of eating 3 pieces of pizza, I'm eating 1 piece of pizza and a small salad.  Instead of drinking a large soda, I'm drinking water with a slice of lemon. 

I know the new year has only just begun, but I already feel better.  I feel better about how I look and it shows through my actions.  My clothes fit the best they have in years and I'm not covering myself up with baggy t-shirts and sweatshirts anymore.

I have so much more energy that it makes my life better in so many other areas.  I'm able to be more active and do more things with my two young children.  I'm not as tired throughout the day and am able to get so many more things done around the house.

What is the motivation behind my weight loss goal? It's not about the number on the scale.  My motivating factor is my children.  I want to be able to keep up with them and everything that they do.  I want to be around to watch them grow up and have children of their own. 

Listerine 21 Day Challenge: Midway Post

Two weeks ago I shared a post about the Listerine 21 Day Challenge that I was participating in, and how you could join.  

 

I can't believe how quickly this oral care challenge is flying by, but I'm thrilled to report that I've stayed on top of my game and can really feel the difference!  I've stuck to my goals of brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and rinsing every night before going to bed.

Valentines Day Gift Ideas from the Heart!

As a wife and a mom, Valentine's Day is about spending quality time with the ones I love the most - my husband and two children.  We always have a nice dinner at home, no crowds or long lines to wait in, no reservations, no worries.

Everyone loves getting flowers from their sweetheart, and if you are going to send Valentine's Day flowers, it's not too late!  To sweeten the deal, use coupon code '10save' at check-out for $10off your order!



Here are some other sweet Valentine's Day gift ideas that are sure to please: 

How about something a little sweet and a little healthy... HANDMADE CHOCOLATE DIPPED STRAWBERRIES. It's something that can easily be done at home for a fraction of what it costs to purchase them at a chocolate store. ANYTHING dipped in chocolate would be just as perfect, pick their favorite. How about CHOCOLATE DIPPED OREOS.

How about something from the heart... a HANDMADE CARD. You can be very creative, let your heart lead the way! Glitter adds the perfect touch!

Something that my husband and I have done in the past are LOVE LETTERS to one another. I have all of mine saved in a special envelope, I love to read them from time to time.

How about baking a HEART SHAPED CAKE. You don't have to have a heart shaped pan to make one, it's very easy! Bake one square cake and round round cake. Cut the round cake in half, place each half of the round layer against one upper side of the square layer to form a heart. Frost and decorate.

My Son Has a Secret Admirer for Valentine's Day!

My son is in 6th grade, and will be twelve years old next month.  Girls have always liked him, and he's always been friends with them but never interested.  He still thinks girls are "gross" and doesn't ever think he will have a girlfriend.  As a mom, I'll take that for as long as I can!

A couple days ago, my son found this love poem in the bottom of his backpack after school.

Roses are red

Violets are blue

And when I dream...

I think of you!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Your Secret Admirer  

 

Yesterday, after recess he found another cut-out heart and a bag of M&M's in his backpack.  I wonder what he's going to come home with today?

Cafe Press: Get Fit & Stay Hydrated With Motivational Fitness Gifts!

What comes to mind when you think of diet and exercise? Do you think of comfortable workout gear, water bottles and motivational artwork? 

CafePress has a wide variety of fitness items to keep you focused, comfortable and hydrated as you live your healthy, fit lifestyle.  Everything from motivational t-shirts, gym bags, and water bottles.

One of the things I love most about CafePress is their variety of items for every occasion.  Personalized clothing, photo gifts, accessories, and stationary for everyone and every room of your home.  The products have special meaning, and can really put your feelings, emotions, and goals into perspective.

Every CafePress purchase comes with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Simply return it within 30 days for a full refund (which should give you plenty of time to make sure it's the right color or right size). Just contact their Customer Service team and you're done. Plain and simple.

The only issue I have when shopping for an item(s), is choosing which one to order.  With so many wonderful options that always seem perfect, it's difficult to know which ones to choose.  

If only I could order them all - then everything would be smooth sailing!  

See's Candies: Valentine's Day Giveaway

See's Candies has a great selection of assorted chocolates, truffles and fudge perfect for Valentine's Day!  I've had the pleasure of sampling several of their products and they are all delicious!  My children absolutely love their lollypops!  They always have a difficult time choosing a flavor, but know that on our next visit they can choose a different one!

See's Candies was founded in 1921 and currently offers over 100 varieties of mouth-watering candies!  They also offer sugar free and Kosher options.

I'm a Smooth Fitness Ambassador

  I am thrilled to announce that I am an official Smooth Fitness Ambassador, and that my treadmill will be arriving this week.  I already have an elliptical machine, but I have been wanting a treadmill for a very long time! I am actually not sure who is more excited for our new treadmill to arrive, myself or my two children.

Over the next four months, I will be posting about my family's experiences using our new treadmill.  I have already lost 56 pounds, and am pushing to lose another 10 pounds.  I also want to be able to run a 12K with my son for the very first time this year.  My son is excited to change up his morning workouts that keep him conditioned and in shape for sports, and my daughter simply thinks it will be fun (she's 9)!

Here is what my new folding treadmill will look like... 

The Jungle Book: Rumble in the Jungle - Family Movie Night

We do our best to enjoy a family movie night once a week, typically on Friday or Saturday night. Last night my son, daughter, husband and I had our weekly family movie night with The Jungle Book: Rumble in the Jungle.  To add to the fun, the movie comes with two cute collectible figures, Mowgli and Baloo.

I loved Jungle Book as a kid, so I was excited to watch Rumble in the Jungle and so were the kids.  And who doesn't love and remember the bare necessities...

 Look for the bare necessities 
The simple bare necessities 
Forget about your worries and your strife 
I mean the bare necessities Old Mother Nature's recipes 
That brings the bare necessities of life 

We loved The Jungle Book: Rumble in the Jungle, and my daughter asked if she could take it to school for their Valentine's Day party so her entire class can watch it!