Monday, December 28, 2009

Working Moms- Stroller Strides has Saturday classes!


Are you a mom that works out of the house during the week? Do you relish your weekends with your little one but still want to get a workout in? Or perhaps the rec center is out of the question since your little one is too little?

Then come to Saturday Stroller Strides classes!

Stroller Strides wants to help working moms keep those New Years Resolutions- so we have put together a 5 week Saturday Session for just $25 ($5 a class). It is perfect for working moms and moms/kiddos with other weekday commitments. Not only do you get a great workout but you get it without sacrificing family time!

The session begins January 16th and runs until February 13th. We will meet at 9:05 at the play area at the Twin Peaks Mall for playtime and class starts at 9:15. Please email me at prebabyjeans@strollerstrides.net for more info or to sign up.

So keep those resolutions and get fit just in time for Valentine's Day!

The key is not to prioritize what's on the schedule, but to schedule your priorities.


Love this quote from Stephen Covey. And it is so true. As a mom it is so hard to fit everything in. I always say (and hear from other moms) "If only I had a few extra hours in the day I could do xxx or yyy". And I hear this from stay at home moms and working moms alike (I am not one to pick sides on who is busier than the other since I have been both and have been busy either way). But there are only 24 hours in a day, and you should sleep for 7-8 of them in order to let your body recover. So that leaves only 16 hours to complete the to do list.

So what are you going to put on your list?

As Stephen so eloquently put- "The key is not to prioritize what's on the schedule, but to schedule your priorities." Meaning, with the limited time you have (and we all get the same amount of hours in a day), schedule what you believe is important.

During the holidays I hear many reasons why the ladies aren't making it into class. Whether it is family in town, the kids slept badly, too many cookies to make for the exchange, too cold, too tired, etc. And believe me, I don't take it personally since I know how it is as a mom during the holidays with the kids home from school... So I get it. BUT, if being healthy and getting a good workout is important to you and one of your priorities- than you need to schedule it in and commit to going! After all, working out provides these great benefits...
• Mental & Emotional health
• Better sleep
• Fewer health problems
• Improved coordination, balance and mental awareness
• Prevents obesity and other disease
• Fights PPD. PPD affects up to 20% of new mothers anytime in the first year after delivery.

And you get to spend one blissful hour sweating along side wonderful me... haha, just kidding. But seriously, consider this a virtual kick in the pants to get off your butt and get to class. You deserve it!

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

A holiday sweater with a bear on it! I love it...


I hope everyone is staying nice and warm while enjoying our Longmont White Christmas!

Just wanted to pop in online and share our Luna Moms Tip of the week!

Did you receive a gift that isn't quite "you"? Do you need to find homes for some of those holiday gifts that are duplicates of things you already have?

Organize a neighborhood pick-up from a local charity just after the holidays. Rally your neighbors to pitch in too, so all those unwanted gifts can go to good homes.


Enjoy the holidays and remember to squeeze in some fitness in between the servings of pie! Perhaps lunge walk from the kitchen to the dining room, do squats in the kitchen while stirring the gravy or just do some calf raises in time with your Christmas caroling. Give your family some extra hugs from me and I will see you back at Stroller Strides on Monday!

Happy Holidays!

From Elaine, Ethan, Kaiden and Robert

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Prenatal Yoga Starting January!

I am so excited to return to teaching Yoga! I am starting Prenatal Yoga classes in January at the Longmont United Hospital!

Classes will be every Tuesday and Thursday at 5:30pm and the cost is only $6 a class! I taught Prenatal Yoga all through my first pregnancy and was a student through my second- Prenatal Yoga is such a blessing! Not only did it give me more energy but it also was a time to connect with my baby while taking "me" time in the presence of other mom's in a safe and nurturing environment.

The classes will be a combination of gentle poses/stretches perfect for you & your growing baby as well as strengthening poses to prepare you for the marathon of birth. You will learn how to de-stress your body from the natural changes that progress with each term while learning breathing & meditation techniques for birth. With tools such as balance balls, bolsters, wedges, weights, resistance bands, chairs and more, we will strengthen and stretch muscles, release tension and maintain good posture. Prenatal yoga also teaches you to keep a positive outlook while clearing the mind of the stresses associated with pregnancy and motherhood.

Beginners are welcome, no previous yoga experience is required. Please check with your doctor before starting this program.


Just a little info on me... Elaine Waterman has been a dedicated yoga practitioner for almost twenty years. A certified yoga instructor since 2002, Elaine started teaching power vinyasa yoga in Vail, CO and then at om time in Boulder, CO. In 2003, Elaine began preparing for the birth of her first child. Her focus in teaching moved from strenuous power vinyasa yoga to nurturing prenatal yoga. She loved sharing the experience with her students and continues to enjoy supporting women in the process of preparing for birth and motherhood with yoga. Now a mother to two boys she teaches prenatal, postnatal and kids yoga as well as Stroller Strides classes in Longmont.

Please let me know if you need any information about the classes. And please let all your expecting mom friends know!!!

Sunday, December 20, 2009

share this with everyone you know- our children deserve a world to pass on to their children!



Thanks to Waylon at elephant magazine for posting this. Short, scary, clearly presented and hard to deny...

“What’s the Worst That Could Happen? A Rational Response to the Climate Change Debate”

Now pass it on!

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Wrapping gifts for the Holidays? Consider this...


Luna Moms Club tip of the week!

The average consumer wraps 20 gifts during the holidays. If just 3 of those gift were wrapped in reused paper or a paper alternative, the paper saved could cover 45,000 football fields!

* Use decorative newspaper ads, colorful pages from magazines, old book pages, music sheets, old maps, calendars, or Sunday comics to wrap with.
* Use children's drawings and paintings that you don't want to throw away for wrapping paper.
* Cut wrapping paper or children's art to fit the top and bottom of a gift box and permanently attach it, so it may be reused.
* Reuse old ribbons and wrapping paper (if wrinkled, press with a warm iron)
* Use flowers, evergreen sprigs, rosemary, pinecones, yarn or reusable hair ribbons instead of plastic bows.
* Use the fronts of old holiday cards as name tags for this year's gifts.
* Create a scavenger hunt in your home by hiding unwrapped gifts and giving each of your family members clues to find them.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

More on Healthy Air for the Holidays


If you are lucky enough to have a wood burning fireplace...

Remember to
1. Only burn dry seasoned hardwoods like oak, hickory, and ash.
2. Avoid soft woods like pine and cedar.
3. Avoid wet wood and any treated or painted wood.
4. Never burn plastics, cardboard, garbage, magazines, etc.
This will minimize the effects of toxic chemicals from your wood burning fireplaces this holiday season.

For those of you without a fireplace you can still enjoy the beauty of candles! Get several large pillar candles of varying heights and place them on a flat surface. Make sure to burn soy or beeswax candles- they are cleaner and gentler on the environment, but are every bit as beautiful and fragrant. Plus, they last longer!

Enjoy Healthier Air During the Holidays


From Healthy Child, Healthy World

To perfume the air with a holiday fragrance, simmer spices such as cinnamon sticks and whole cloves - Special scents create a festive holiday mood. However, scented candles, incense, air fresheners and other fragrance products are filled with chemical cocktails that can pollute indoor air, causing headaches, fatigue and other symptoms.

Fresh air helps keep the holidays healthy - Even though it may be cold outside, remember to crack the windows a bit each day to let fresh air in and polluted air out. Chemicals, smoke and soot build up indoors if there's no place for them to go. Healthier Indoor Air has more tips on keeping your air "fresh" for the holidays

As you cozy up to the fireplace this winter, remember that particles and gases from fires can make breathing difficult, especially for asthmatics. Make sure you ventilate well. Dry wood burns hotter and cleaner than "green" wood and hardwoods are better than coniferous trees, or evergreens. (That includes your Christmas tree, which is better off recycled.) For more tips, see How To Build a Safer Fire. Note: Fires also emit carcinogens, so keep fires to a minimum.

Learn more about how you can have a healthier holiday season at Healthy Child Healthy World.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

My First Year as a Stroller Strides Franchise Owner!


November marks my 1 yr anniversary as a Stroller Strides franchise owner! When I started going to class, my 2nd was 8 wks old, I was on leave and was struggling with being at home. I needed to get out of the house but there were so many reasons to stay in. I was feeling overwhelmed and alone. Through Stroller Strides, I found friends that could relate and a great workout my kids and I loved! I returned to work after 3 months but childcare for 2 kids was so expensive we couldn't make ends meet. And I missed my little guys! When I heard that Karen, the current owner, was selling the franchise I jumped on the opportunity. It was the best decision I could have made! Now I can focus on my kids while contributing to the household, I am passing on a love of health to my children and I am making a difference in other mom’s lives, just as Karen had made a difference in mine when Ethan was 8 weeks old. With the support and the education given by Stroller Strides, I have become a leader in my mom community, so different from the lonely mom that existed just 1 year ago. I now have such a sense of accomplishment, confidence, peace and purpose! Thanks Stroller Strides for this wonderful opportunity- I can’t wait to see what year 2 has to offer!

Monday, October 26, 2009

Sammy Sack blankets


Hello everyone! Just a quick note to let you all know about a fantastic discount just for you on the best stroller blankets ever!

Stroller Strides Moms Save 30% on orders placed at SammySack.com.

These blankets are perfect for active moms who need to keep strolling/rolling and running smoothly without blankets falling off strollers.

To take advantage of the 30% Savings, order at www.sammysack.com, apply coupon code 1FITMOM during checkout!

Enjoy! Hope to see you all in class soon!

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

The Fit Moms Challenge- Fall 2009


Whew! I am right in the middle of the Stroller Strides of Longmont Fit Moms Challenge and the ladies are kicking my butt. In the challenge, teams of 2 moms accumulate points in the areas of Mind, Body and Spirit according to their daily activities. You can get points for attending Stroller Strides classes, exercising on your own, taking time for yourself, spending time meditating/praying, keeping a personal journal, eating fruits and vegetables, and more. The team to collect the most points wins PRIZES!! The prizes are awesome and I am determined to win! (Well everyone actually wins a prize, but higher points mean you get an earlier pick).

Since I run Stroller Strides in Longmont you would think that I am a shoo-in to win. Well, to be fair, I made my SS class time not count for me. And because of it I have to find a way to squeeze a workout in other than Stroller Strides and it is so hard to find the time! Stroller Strides really is a blessing for moms trying to find time to work out without having to get a babysitter, or having to worry if their little one is freaking out in the gym daycare.

Anyway, more about the challenge...

For me the challenge is not about working out until I fall over, it isn't about eating only carrots, it isn't even about getting the most points. For me, the challenge is about awareness. When I sit down nightly and count up my points it gives me time to reflect on how much or how little I cared about my own total body/mind/spirit fitness. Did I make a healthy breakfast for everyone and then run out of the door with butter toast to eat in the car? Did I slow down for 15 minutes to be thankful for my blessings? Did I enrich my mind with a good book instead of watching mindless TV?

The challenge reminds me of what my goals are and whether or not that day I chose to make decisions that got me closer or whether I need to try better tomorrow.

But the last reason I love the challenge is that it is FUN!!!

So thanks ladies for being a part of the challenge and part of a community that supports healthy moms creating happy families!

(and if you are a Fit Mom, let me know what your favorite part of the challenge has been so far!)

Monday, September 14, 2009

Pregnant Mommies- you can eat fish! Don't be afraid- just be aware!

Moms on a Mission Fact for the week!

Fact: One in seven newborns could be at risk for brain damage and learning difficulties due to mercury exposure in the womb. Women and children are exposed to dangerous levels of mercury when they eat certain fish.

Action: Eat small fish and use the mercury calculator at www.gotmercury.org to find out how much is safe for you.

What is Moms on a Mission?

Women, especially moms, are invaluable change agents. LUNA Moms Club harnesses this power through its “Moms with a Mission” mantra. Our goal is to provide a platform for moms to help better the community where we and our families live and play by sharing information and participating in activities focused on giving back to children, families and the environment.

Not only do we as moms make a huge impact in your community, but through our actions we teach and inspire the next generation to do so as well.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

What's in your water bottle?


TIP- Bottled water is less regulated than tap water and can contain chemicals leached from the plastic. Bottle your own water and use a stainless steel or aluminum reusable water bottle.

But before you grab any metal bottle from the shelf take a look at this article...

The article is on the scandal regarding Sigg aluminum bottles containing BPA in their liners.

The article states that "Bisphenol A is a chemical that has been found to mimic the female hormone estrogen. It appears in polycarbonate bottles and the epoxy lining of canned food."

"BPA has been linked to breast cancer, prostate cancer, change in brain function and behaviour, and the merging of the sexes in animals."

So be mindful of the chemicals used in the metal bottles you choose, but definitely stay away from bottled water. After all, what are we going to do with all those plastic bottles after we are done with them!

(Tips about “Creating a Healthy Environment for Children”are provided for eco-conscious moms and are in collaboration from Stroller Strides, LUNA Moms Club and Healthy Child Healthy World.)

Go retro with your toys...


Moms on a Mission Fact for the week!

Fact: Toys made our of PVC plastics or vinyl often contain additives, such as lead, phthalates, and cadmium, which leech out increasing your child's risk for brain damage, cancer, and hormone disruption.

Action: Purchase toys made out of wood or cloth.

What is Moms on a Mission?

Women, especially moms, are invaluable change agents. LUNA Moms Club harnesses this power through its “Moms with a Mission” mantra. Our goal is to provide a platform for moms to help better the community where we and our families live and play by sharing information and participating in activities focused on giving back to children, families and the environment.

Not only do we as moms make a huge impact in your community, but through our actions we teach and inspire the next generation to do so as well.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Work for mom and not the man!



I remember the rat race... When my husband and I had to have endless conversations on who was going to drop off or pick up. When I was racing home in traffic to beat the 5:30pm pick up time. When my first born's first word was "bye" and as one mom put it, "the drive to work and home is for crying". I remember the grind, not just the grind of getting up super early since we both worked four 10 hour shifts so that K would only have day care for 3 days instead of 5, but also the grind it put on our marriage. So when Ethan was born I knew we couldn't do the rat race thing with two little ones. So I researched what else was out there...

I knew I wanted something that was flexible, that I could do from home and I could bring my children with me. I also wanted it to fit in with my healthy lifestyle. So what to do???

So many moms are faced with this question after returning to the workforce. With their new role as mother, their old career just doesn't seem to fit anymore. But maybe they still need to (and want to) provide an income for their family.

If you are one of these moms, check out this great article on Momlogic about starting your own company. Lisa Druxman, founder of Stroller Strides is profiled along with other mompreneurs.

And I encourage any mom looking for a flexible, fun, kid friendly job to look into becoming a Stroller Strides franchise owner. I love "working" everyday and my kids love it too!

Monday, August 17, 2009

Shoes off!



What is “Moms with a Mission”?

Women, especially moms, are invaluable change agents. LUNA Moms Club harnesses this power through its “Moms with a Mission” mantra. Our goal is to provide a platform for moms to help better the community where we and our families live and play by sharing information and participating in activities focused on giving back to children, families and the environment.


Not only do we as moms make a huge impact in your community, but through our actions we teach and inspire the next generation to do so as well. The little guys above are my reason I am on a mission!


Moms on a Mission Fact for the week!

Fact: In a recent warning about lead exposure, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) specifically recommends that shoes remain outside the house. According to a report called the Door Mat Study, lead-contaminated soil from the outside causes almost all the lead dust inside homes and it notes that wiping shoes on a mat and removing them at the door cuts lead dust by 60 percent.

Action: Leave the dirt at the door. Wiping our shoes off and leaving them at the door reduces the amount of contaminated dirt tracked in. Think about this, your babies and kids are the ones who spend the most time on the floor of your home.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Support for Motherhood- Thank Goodness for Friends!


When I started as a Stroller Strides franchise owner 9 months ago I had a 4 year old and a 4 month old. I had just recently left my full time job and had few friends that were mothers. It was lonely during the 3 months of maternity leave as I maneuvered through my new Stay At Home life.

Then I started going to Stroller Strides! After my first class I loved it, I loved that I could work out again without worrying about day care, or worrying that I still had my baby weight, or worrying that my child was acting up... I also loved that I had found a support group that was active, happy and so friendly! I loved it so much that I jumped at the chance to buy the franchise when the current owner decided to focus more on their South Denver franchise (Thanks, Karen!).

Now I have a full calendar of playdates, moms nights outs, coffee dates, bike rides, hikes and more! Recently a couple of us moms got together on Friendship Day for Sunday Brunch and a Pedicure. We had a free day away from the kids to talk, laugh and pamper ourselves. This is a picture of our wonderful toes!

I don't know if I would have found these wonderful women without Stroller Strides and Luna Moms Club coming into my life. But thank goodness I found that Stroller Strides flyer when I did, and thanks to all the wonderful new friends in my life!

Monday, August 10, 2009

Moms on a Mission


What is “Moms with a Mission”?

Women, especially moms, are invaluable change agents. LUNA Moms Club harnesses this power through its “Moms with a Mission” mantra. Our goal is to provide a platform for moms to help better the community where we and our families live and play by sharing information and participating in activities focused on giving back to children, families and the environment.


Not only do we as moms make a huge impact in your community, but through our actions we teach and inspire the next generation to do so as well.


Moms on a Mission Fact for the week!


Fact: Personal care product companies are not required to test their products for safety prior to selling them and can put in virtually anything they want. Not surprisingly, there are many ingredients that have been found to be harmful.

Action: To reduce exposure to carcinogens, neurotoxicants, and reproductive toxicants, purchase products that do not contain:

* Parabens
* Formaldehyde
* Triethanolamine and cocamide DEA
* PEGs
* Isopropanol
* 2-phenoxyethanol
* Benzethonium chloride
* Talc
* Phthalates
* Fragrance

Skin Deep safety guide to cosmetics and personal care products (brought to you by researchers at the Environmental Working Group) is a great resource for what type of chemicals are in over 25,000 products – you can search by product type, by brand etc. Find out more at www.cosmeticsdatabase.com.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Snikiddy Snacks Contest for Stroller Strides participants!


Snikiddy Snacks is an awesome line of snacks for kids that is tasty and healthy. They offer sweet snacks like cookies as well as savory snacks such as cheese puffs. Mmmm. Healthy cheese puffs and cookies- how can that be? Well, Snikiddy Kids uses natural and wholesome ingredients. For the Baked Puffs (choose from nacho, mac and cheese, grilled cheese and more) they use real cheese (no cheez here) while leaving out the trans fats, hydrogenated oils and preservatives. The cookies are made from whole wheat flour, real butter and unrefined cane sugar.

Even those that are gluten free (like my little one) can enjoy the Baked Puffs since they are gluten/wheat free and made of corn.

Snikkidy Kids is running a great contest this month for all Stroller Strides participants. You can win a free Jamis Bike!

Enter to win here. The winner will be announced on December 1st, 2009.

In the meantime, check out Snikiddy Snacks and print out a $1 off coupon!

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Post Pregnancy- Small Changes Equal Big Success


As a Stroller Strides franchise owner I know many moms that struggle with post pregnancy weight. I was one of them! After my first child I tried all the fad diets out there. For a few months I only ate raw foods, then I was vegan, then a zone dieter, then gluten free, then dairy free and the list goes on! I knew all the things I needed to do to lose weight and be healthier, but somehow I couldn't commit to doing them. And after 2 years I still had the baby weight.

After Ethan I made the commitment to health. I now exercise daily, eat healthy (with sweets in moderation) and my yo-yo dieting habits are gone. I have lost the baby weight, gained a lot of muscle and feel energized through the whole day. But I did not do it overnight- there was no quick fix diet or solution. I did it through little changes and a lot of help from my food and fitness diary.

According to Stroller Strides's founder Lisa Druxman's book, Lean Mommy, small changes add up to make a big difference. Many people dive into weight loss by focusing on a strict diet or intense workouts. But because they have not changed their mental patterns, they drop the program soon after they start. In Lean Mommy, Lisa suggests that you start with monitoring your eating habits, identifying and controlling the stimuli that trigger you to crave and eat food, modifying how and when you eat, rethinking self-defeating attitudes and learning more about exercise and good nutrition. In short, paying attention to your daily habits and tweaking them in small ways towards health.

Lean Mommy even comes with a Food and Fitness Diary to get you started in tracking your daily eating and exercise habits. The diary's purpose is not to turn you into a crazy calorie counting machine, it is more to help you notice your patterns of choice... It kind of acts like a 3 year old inside your head- always asking you "why?". For example, why did you eat the whole box of donuts? Was it because you were stressed, was it because you didn't have breakfast and were overly hungry, was it because you were with a certain person, or it was at 3pm when you just need something sweet... Knowing the answers to these questions can help you prepare with healthy options when you need them most.

I did the Food and Fitness Diary for a week and found out some pretty interesting things. Like I eat an insane amount of calories while preparing dinner- then I sit down and eat (another) dinner with the family! My small change- I don't nibble pre-dinner and only eat once we sit down. So much easier than a fad diet!

I encourage all mommies to check out Lean Mommy (your can purchase it on Amazon.com or on the Stroller Strides website) and especially the Food and Fitness Diary. It is very eye opening and a great way to begin your journey to health and wellness!

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Re-live a classic at Red Rocks- The Princess Bride Tailgate Party- Tuesday, June 30th


Come celebrate the start of summer with Vitamin Water, Qdoba, Stroller Strides!

Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Time: 5:30pm - 10:30pm
Location: Red Rocks Ampitheater
Street: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy
City/Town: Morrison, CO

You are invited to a Vitamin Water10 special screening of "The Princess Bride" at Red Rocks. The tailgate party starts at 5:30 pm with the movie starting around dusk (8pm). The Tailgate party is in the Upper South Lot- use entrance #1 and follow the signs.

Food, beverages, admittance to tailgate, admittance to film and special vitamin water gift bags are included!

Dinner will be provided by Qdoba Mexican Grill, vitaminwater10 and smartwater provided by Glacéau, music and fun provided by KBCO 97.3 fm, beer will also be provided. But please RSVP in the comments to get on the list!

Bring the whole family and I hope to see you there!

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Are you ready to win a BOB Stroller?!?



In my opinion, BOB Strollers are the best strollers out there. They handle great (love that revolving front wheel!) and with its awesome suspension sometimes I want to climb in for the ride... But as with all good things- you get what you pay for... Unless you win one for FREE!

Here is your chance to win a brand new BOB Stroller Strides Fitness Stroller! To enter, click here and submit a photo of you in your super sweet workout duds, the most creative submission will win!

Show BOB how you rock your walk and have fun on your run! Are you a spandex queen? Do you and baby match outfits? Pull together your funkiest fashion, custom creation, or silly styling's and show BOB how you roll on your way to getting fit!

Based on the BOB Revolution, this stroller comes with a Stroller Strides Fitness Kit (handlebar console, exercise tubing and a fitness manual to provide exercise suggestions and help you keep track of your workouts) and is a perfect companion for Stroller Strides class. The whole package would usually be $399 so get your submission in soon!!!

The contest ends June 29th!

Monday, May 18, 2009

You've got to have good sneakers!

Don't you hate it when you go for a run and you start getting hot feet? And I don't mean temperature- I mean the heat that signals a blister is starting. That is the worst! I am not a runner, but I do run. I do not LOVE it but I hope to get there. There is nothing that stops the love short faster than bad sneakers.

I have been running in New Balances for a while and they have been great! Look What Mom Found is giving away a pair of New Balances this month to a lucky winner. I hope it is me! If running is to become my new love I need some new sneakers!

Tuesday, May 12, 2009


Did you miss the JBF sale last weekend? Didn't find what you were looking for?

Then come to the SHOP KIDS EVENT this weekend in Loveland!
www.shopkidsevent.com

Come shop our event for a huge selection of gently used clothing and equipment!
You don’t want to miss this sale!!!

General Public Shopping
Friday May 15th 6:00pm-8:00pm
Sat May 16th, 9:00am-5pm
Sunday May 17th, 9:00 am-12:00 pm ½ price sale

Where
The Ranch at the Budweiser Event Center
I-25 and Crossroads in Loveland

Mindful Eating


How many times a day do you eat a meal standing up? Do you snack in front of the tv? Or do you savor each bite when you eat?

Life is busy. Sometimes I feel like every second of my day has been scheduled in 15 minute portions. Eating is crammed in there somewhere. Sometimes it is in the car, sometimes in front of the tv watching our favorite show or sports team. It is easy to feel like a bystander with your life whizzing by... It is hard to feel satisfied by a meal that just speeds past your taste buds on the way to your belly.

I have come to terms with my nature of enjoying a full schedule, for myself and my family. But in terms of healthy eating, I have made a commitment to be more intentional and aware of what we eat and where. To do so, I am changing my attitude on food... Meals are no longer another stop on the speedway that is the Waterman calendar!

Here is my plan to make meals more mindful in our house...
* Say thanks before each meal- We are vegetarians (with a little fish sometimes) so this means thanking the farmers and the food for the nourishment it offers us. This also helps the kids realize where their food comes from so there is less waste.
* Set the table- And this does not mean the TV tray. Meals are to be eaten as a family at the table. This also creates an environment of sharing and community.
* Use your five senses - Experience your meal with all five senses. Look at your food, taste it, touch it and feel for texture, smell the aroma, and listen - is there are crunch when you eat it? With the farmers market opening last week it is much easier to get farm fresh veggies with a wonderful array of colors. Enjoy it!
* Be mindful of your fullness- Sometimes people eat when they are really thirsty. Or people eat beyond fullness. Pause frequently while eating to see if you are full. It is hard to sense fullness when you are shoveling food into your mouth on the way out the door.
* Check the source- Are you craving food because you are hungry or because of another emotion (boredom/sadness/control issues). Be mindful of the emotions behind your cravings.

I am excited to really savor my foods mindfully starting with dinner tonight- I am off to cook!

Monday, May 11, 2009

Breakfast- a must for mommies (to be and otherwise)


I never have enough time in the morning. Between sending Robert off to work, getting the dogs fed and in the dog run, dressing the the kids, changing diapers, making breakfast for a 4 year old and a 1 year old (one that is healthy and will actually get eaten), supervising potty time and teeth brushing and more, there are just never enough minutes before we have to run out the door for Stroller Strides. This being the case I still manage to squeeze in a healthy breakfast for me. Why?

Because breakfast kick starts your metabolism and your day. Skipping out on breakfast can rob you of so much energy you feel it into the next day. Don't miss out on this stamina-building morning eating occasion!

Think of your needs while meeting those of your baby. For example, as you fill your baby’s sippy cup, pour a glass of milk for yourself. Or, if you don't like milk, try a drinkable yogurt or flavored milk to get the calcium you need.

Because you can't get by on yogurt and milk alone, instead of grabbing that pastry at the coffee shop or while running errands, reach for whole-grain foods such as instant oatmeal, LUNA bars, or slice of peanut-buttered whole-grain toast to compliment your morning dairy selection.

Right now I am on a steel cut oats kick. While it does take a bit longer to cook than those instant (sugar high) packets I just make a bunch on Monday and stick the rest in the fridge for the week. While I am making Kaiden's breakfast I heat up a bowl for me. I add a little milk (so it doesn't get too thick) and some vanilla whey protein. For a little sweetness I add organic maple syrup or agave. If I am lucky enough to have berries in the fridge I add those on top. Yummy!

I know that as moms we are lucky to make it out of the house, much less out of the house on time with clean clothes on everyone. But try to take the time to have a healthy breakfast. Your body will thank you for it in many ways!

Saturday, May 9, 2009

Working Moms- Stroller Strides has Saturday classes!


Are you a mom that works out of the house during the week? Do you relish your weekends with your little one but still want to get a workout in? Or perhaps the rec center is out of the question since your little one is too little?

Then come to Saturday Stroller Strides classes!

Stroller Strides of Longmont/Firestone offers a Saturdays only membership for only $25. It is perfect for working moms and moms/kiddos with other weekday commitments. Not only do you get a great workout but you get it without sacrificing family time!

There is a one time registration fee of $25 and monthly membership is $25. Membership includes Saturday classes only ($6.25 each).

Also, to celebrate Pregnancy Awareness Month new moms can try out classes for free from May 10th through May 16th! And your first class is ALWAYS FREE!

Visit strollerstrides.net/longmont for more information!

Friday, May 8, 2009

May is Pregnancy Awareness Month

And for those moms to be...

May is Pregnancy Awareness Month!


Declared and founded by holistic lifestyle expert Anna Getty, May 2009 marks the 2nd year of Pregnancy Awareness Month (PAM). Through PAM, Anna aims to empower pregnant women with information, “how to” ideas and inspiration to incorporate PAM’s four key initiatives – education, exercise, nutrition & wellness and nurture – into their life routines and to show women how easy it can be to make healthy changes in their lives for themselves and their children.

“My life was altered not only by the birth of my daughter, but by the experience and choices I made as I prepared my body, mind and spirit to become pregnant and the incredible inward journey of pregnancy itself. In PAM we have adopted the tagline: “Motherhood begins now,” and I really believe that. I took that message to heart before I actually became pregnant as a way to prepare my mind, body and household for this fabulous moment of creativity, and my life literally turned upside down, for the better."

Visit the PAM website for more info!

To celebrate PAM, Stroller Strides is offering FREE classes from May 10th to May 16th. Click the coupon for more info!

Happy Mothers Day- to those with little ones, big ones and ones still in the "oven"


Happy Mother Day from Stroller Strides of Longmont/Firestone!

Start the day off right with easy recipes for your family to cook!

Mothers Day Breakfast in Bed...
by Ann Bender and Karen Hutcherson
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY from Relish!

[A] Café Mocha
[B] Seasonal Berries w/ Whipped Cream
[C] Maple Sausage
[D] Banana Macadamia Pancakes

Here's a deliciously simple breakfast menu with banana macadamia pancakes that are to die for. The grocery list is included so send Dad and the kids to the store and stretch out on the couch and watch Beaches, Pretty Woman or any Meg Ryan movie.
Enjoy!

CAFÉ MOCHA [A]
Freshly brewed coffee
2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
Dollop of fresh whipping cream*
Cinnamon

1. Pour hot coffee into a mug, mix in the chocolate syrup, and place a dollop of whipped cream on top with a dash of cinnamon.

*FRESH WHIPPED CREAM
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon sugar

1. Using an electric mixer, mix the whipping cream and sugar until stiff peaks form. Use the cream in the coffee and on the berries.

SEASONAL BERRIES WITH WHIPPED CREAM [B]
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 pint blueberries
1 pint blackberries

1. Mix all of the washed berries in a bowl. Transfer to individual bowls and top with fresh whipped cream.

MAPLE SAUSAGE [C]
1 package link sausage
¼ cup maple syrup

1. Prepare sausage in skillet over medium heat for 10-12 minutes. When the sausage is cooked, brush with maple syrup and let cook another minute.

BANANA MACADAMIA PANCAKES [D]

1¾ cups flour
3 tablespoons sugar
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1½ cups buttermilk, well shaken
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ripe large banana
½ cup macadamia nuts, chopped
Maple Syrup
Butter
½ cup coconut, toasted (optional)
Cooking spray

1. Spread the coconut on a small baking sheet and broil for 2 minutes until lightly browned, stirring occasionally. BE CAREFUL NOT TO BURN!
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs and vanilla until smooth. Add the flour mixture and whisk until just combined. Cut the banana into bits and fold into batter along with the nuts.
3. Spray a nonstick skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Working in batches of 3, pour 1⁄4 cup batter per pancake into the hot skillet and cook until the bubbles appear on the surface and the underside is golden.
4. Flip the pancakes with a spatula and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a large plate and tent with foil. Spray the skillet before each new batch.
5. Heat maple syrup in the microwave. Top the pancakes with toasted coconut and serve


MOTHER’S DAY SHOPPING LIST

Each recipe and side is coded with an A, B, C, D, or E that corresponds to the shopping list. If you’re unable to make a particular item, simply cross off everything on the grocery list with that code.

WHAT YOU NEED BUT MAY ALREADY HAVE
Baking powder
Baking soda
Butter
Chocolate syrup
Cinnamon
Coffee
Cooking spray
Eggs, large
Flour
Salt
Sugar
Vanilla extract


MEAT, FISH, POULTRY
1 package maple-flavored link
sausages [C]

PRODUCE
1 pint strawberries [B]
1 pint blueberries [B]
1 pint blackberries [B]
1 large banana [D]


DAIRY
1 pint heavy whipping cream [A,B]
1 pint buttermilk [D]


SYRUP
1 12 ounce jar of real maple syrup (the good stuff) [D]


BAKING
1 7 ounce bag shredded coconut [D]


NUTS
2 2.25 ounce packages of chopped Macadamia Nuts [D]



Relish! was founded by Ann Bender and Karen Hutcherson, two busy Colorado mothers who found themselves in the over-scheduled, eat-in-the-car trap. Both women love to cook but didn't have time to sift through cookbooks and magazines for evening meals. Healthy, good-tasting dinner shouldn't be out of reach and this is where the Relish! story begins. www.relishrelish.com.

Sunday, May 3, 2009

Celebrate Mother's Day with Great Deals from Stroller Strides!

As a mom of two energetic boys, I am all about celebrating Mother's Day!

As the fastest growing workout for moms with their kids in the stroller, Stroller Strides is all celebrating moms too- by offering all kinds of sweet deals!

Doce Vida Fitness is a new line of fitness attire that is very slimming and great to workout in! It's very stylish workout apparel. They say that it’s made with a unique ultra soft, super moisture wicking 12% stretch fabric that instantly slims. How can you not love that? Doce Vida Fitness Wear is perfect for everything from working out to lounging. The folks at Doce Vida were so glad we liked it at Stroller Strides that they wanted to share a gift for our readers. Get 20% off your purchase. Use the code "SSTRIDES09" at checkout.

We're not finished yet! As a gift to you Stroller Strides is offering a FREE copy of Lisa Druxman's book Lean Mommy to the first 200 people to visit the retail store at www.strollerstrides.com. Lean Mommy is an inspirational book providing tips on staying fit during and after pregnancy, how to be a "opti" mom and eating healthy!


And with the weather finally getting nice maybe you are in the market for a jogging stroller. If so, visit Joggermom! With the purchase of any BOB stroller, you will receive a FREE console attachment for your stroller using the voucher code "4mommy." Now wouldn't that be an awesome Mother's Day gift!

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Amazon discount on Earth's Best Foods


Great promo going on in May from Amazon! You can Save 30% On Earth's Best Foods! Add eligible items to your cart, choose SUBSCRIBE AND SAVE to save 15% (this can be canceled at any time with the click of your mouse from "My Account" page) and enter code: EBEST545 at checkout.

A case of Earth's Best 2nd Foods, which includes 12 jars, was just over $8 or roughly $.67 a piece. Use this to your advantage and stock pile your baby food this month!

(Thanks Candace from Deal-ectible Mommies)

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Some more tips on prenatal nutrition- more to follow- stay tuned!

Here are some nutrients you will need even more now that you are directly responsible for the nutritional needs of your baby, whether you’re pregnant or a new mom: calcium, protein, folic acid, fiber, iron and fluids. In the next few weeks, we’ll review the importance of each of these and how you can incorporate more of it into your diet.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Eating for 2- tips for healthy eating while expecting!

Do you double your portions because you’re now “eating for two”? Not so fast. The recommended weight gain for the average pregnant woman is 25-35 pounds. It only takes approximately 300 extra calories a day to meet this recommended weight goal. Great, extra calories, you say? A snack equivalent to 300 calories is an 6-ounce container of yogurt and a 1/4-cup of raisins. So you can see while you are eating for two, you are not eating for two adults. You are eating for one adult and a fetus that starts off the size of a grain of rice!

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Zebra Mix Contest for Fit Moms Challenge

I am always on the lookout for fun to be had with your kids. Since K and I have been on a cooking spree I wanted to find some fun cooking/baking kits where he could participate. I found Zebra Mix on a mommy blog site and tried to win the giveaway. I didn't end up winning (bummer) but the company checked out my website and decided to let me review the product and also sent me boxes to giveaway myself. YAY!

(from the Zebra Mix Website) You will love eating our Chocolate Chip Cookies. But, we think the best part is in the process of making these cookies.

Each baking mix has on oversized Safari Baking Map with two levels of learning. Level 1 (age 4-9) is for non-readers, beginning readers and experienced readers. Level 2 is for ages 9 and up. Each level has aspirational learning and appeals to a variety of learning styles.

Using pictures, colorful illustrations and icons, kids learn math, science, practice critical thinking and they even learn how to write a scientific formula - all while they are Stirring Up Fun!®

It is the perfect kid-sized project for one, or set it up as a fun activity with family and friends.

Since I had such a great time I decided to let the moms in the Fit Moms Challenge try the kits as well. Comment here ladies and happy baking!

P.S. These kits have organic ingredients- so thumbs up! No High Fructose Corn Syrup!!!

Monday, March 23, 2009

The Breast Cancer Fund

HELP SPREAD THE WORD!

The Breast Cancer Fund depends on its community to be a driving force in helping to create awareness and change around eliminating the environmental causes of breast cancer. One great way to help spread the word is to send your friends and family a Breast Cancer Fund E-Postcard.



Become an advocate: The Strong Voices Leadership Development Program is a nationwide network of women and men who share their personal stories while inspiring the public to take action to end the breast cancer epidemic. The Strong Voices Leadership Development Program was envisioned when the Breast Cancer Fund founder, Andrea Ravinett Martin, first spoke out on behalf of the environmental links to breast cancer. As a leader and strong voice in the breast cancer advocacy movement, Andrea created the path for the Breast Cancer Fund to take issue with the single most compelling public health issue of this century – environmental health.


To become a Strong Voice, please fill the Volunteer Form and indicate that you are interested in additional advocacy training.


Visit the Strong Voices website to learn more about the program, access tools and resources and find opportunities for involvement in your region.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

I want an ERGO...

If you do too, check out this giveaway and while you are at it, click on the bloggy baby bash button to the left and see what other goodies you can win!

Seventh Generation Giveaway on Katydid and Kid

I just found a great mommy blog that is doing a giveaway of Seventh Generation products. I love SG and use a lot of their products. Our household is pretty green. We recycle whatever we can and try to reuse what we can't. SG's philosophy says it best... "In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations."

Their products are Non-toxic & biodegradable, Hypo-allergenic, don't create harsh fumes, aren't tested on animals, and are Kosher-certified. They disclose all of their ingredients and their paper products are made with 100% recycled paper, with a minimum 80% post-consumer content.

I also follow SG on twitter and subscribe to their blog. Something I recommend to all green families. You can even register on the site to receive emails and coupons!

Anyways, back to the giveaway... Click here to see how to win!

Last day (March 15th) to skate in Longmont!

March 15th is the final day of the Ice Pavilion's 2008-2009 sesason and the rink will feature its annual March Meltdown event. The event will feature skating, ice painting, and ice cream. Regular admission and skate rental prices apply. Come out the Longmont Ice Pavilion and celebrate the completion of a tremendous year at the rink!

Sunday, March 15
1:00 - 5:00pm

Located at Roosevelt Park, the Longmont Ice Pavilion is a seasonal ice rink, offering public ice skating, hockey, skating lessons and party facilities throughout the winter, weather permitting. Come enjoy the ice, get some exercise, and have a great time in the facility.

Longmont Ice Pavilion
Roosevelt Park, 725 8th Avenue
(303) 774-4777
(Skating Rink)

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Mardi Gras at the Boulder Fairgrounds


Hey Longmont moms, I just wanted to let you know of a fun event at the Fairgounds geared to 3-10 year olds.

Admission is free and tickets can be purchased for food or carnival games.

The theme this year is Mardi Gras and you can get to the flyer here!

Check it out!

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Stroller Strides- what have you done for me lately?

A quick list of why I love Stroller Strides...
1. I have biceps, not just bumps where my biceps should be
2. I can run without getting winded!
3. I am back in my pre-baby jeans after only 8 months- actually I am in better shape than before having baby!
4. I have friends that love sharing about their kids and love to hear me share.
5. I have friends that gripe about their kids and allow me to gripe.
6. I have friends that talk about other things than their kids. We are people too, not just moms!
7. Owning a franchise has allowed me to offer this to others. This makes me feel so great about myself and not in a scary narcissistic way, but in a caring, generous and all over glowing way.
8. I have the great feeling of being my own boss!
9. I can be creative in my job but still get support from Stroller Strides when I need it.
10. I can combine the satisfaction of being a Stay at home mom with the satisfaction of being a business owner.
11. My kids see that I make fitness fun and a priority in my life. They will be less likely to be couch potatoes as they grow older.
12. I have had the blessing of surrounding myself with wonderful women that value health, their children, the world and themselves.

Stroller Strides is a great company and each franchise is owned by a woman, and more specifically, each is owned by a mother. Most moms start their franchise with no business experience, just the love of fitness and their children. There is a contest on line for the top businesses created by women and Stroller Strides is in the running! Your vote is very important and you can VOTE EVERYDAY! Click here and vote!

Thanks for checking it out and I hope to see you in class soon!
E

10 out of 10 experts agree we are in a recession...

Okay I made up that statistic, but I don't think anyone can contest it at this point. Times are tough for everyone and we all know someone that has lost their job or taken a paycut to stay in a job. Perhaps it is a friend, a friend of a friend, your loved ones or even yourself. Just thinking about my husband losing his job gives me heart palpitations. I am a "what if" person by nature, someone who is always thinking of worst case scenario. But in this climate, worst case could indeed be what happens. So, the control freak that I am, I am preparing for the worst even though I do not think it will happen. But then again, you just never know...

Here are some tips if you are also trying to save "just in case".

1. Choose activities that are fun and free. There are so many activities for families that are free. The park, playdates, the museum, storytime, etc. Not that I will not pay for fun things for me and the kids to do. It's just that they are young enough that going for a walk and trying to find a birds nest is just as exciting to them as going to the museum. And I know the free days at the zoo and museum are packed, but I guess I am less affected by it since I am from the city...

2. Surround yourself with frugal friends. I think everyone I know right now qualifies. When you have a family it is easier to make frugal choices since your priorities change. But even so, I am choosing to hang out with my more frugal friends. Spendy friends tend to make you spendy. Frugal friends will be as creative as you are to find the deals, and the good deals at that (meaning products that are worth it, and not just cheap). Share tips with each other to save!

3. Use hand me downs and consignment stores... I think we have bought only $100 worth of new clothes in the 5 years we have been parents. Granted I have boys, and if I had a girl I might be broke... Consignment stores are awesome. My favorites- Once Upon A Child on Ken Pratt and Childish Things in Boulder. For me, Rags to Riches on 28th in Boulder.

4. Think about wants versus needs... And be thankful for what you have. There is a buddhist saying- desire is the cause of all unhappiness. When I think about it, I really have everything I need. Of course it would be nice to have a larger car (even a van!) and it would be great to eat out more. The list of wants is large. But do we really need these things? And on the flip side of that, instead of desiring things and being miserable about not being able to get them, when do we ever sit down and really experience the gratitude for what we do have. Perhaps Thanksgiving? My sister was in town recently and her daughter said grace before we ate. Since we don't really have a religion we practice, K wanted to participate but didn't know how to. So I told him to share what he was thankful for. He said the sweetest things- thankful for mom, dad, baby, family, his blankie and for the dinner we were about to eat. It made me realize that even though most everything I "want" is for my family, they are actually happy with what we have already.

5. Put away a bit of money at the beginning of the month. If you wait till the end of the month to put away money in your emergency fund it will already be spent. This is amazingly true. And when I try to find where we spent the "extra" it is almost always on things we didn't really need (see tip #4).

6. Reuse- Good old #2 in Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Find new uses for things you already have. Or fix things that you have instead of buying new. But make sure whatever you reuse is still safe!

7. Be creative on new ways to make money... Think about skills you have! Do you know how to sew (I do- perhaps I can do custom draperies???) or are you creative (yes! Perhaps I can start doing nursery murals again). Think about your skills and see if there is a niche or need you can fill. Perhaps you can watch a few kids at home with your children. Or even provide a Moms Day Out service. Someone just told me they buy clipped coupons on ebay. People will pay for convenience, and you can be the person they pay!

Sometimes the world does collapse on top of you and there is sacrifice and loss. But whatever happens, just breathe and return to tip #4. Think about what you already have. It will not solve all your problems, but it may give you the direction you need to act in difficult situations.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Best test for fat loss...

I just read on Women's Health the best way to test for fat loss. And if you are having a hard time committing to a healthy diet, this one will give you the motivation.

Basically it says that weighing yourself is not a good indicator of fat loss since the scale measures water and muscles as well as fat. A better way is to "place your fingers on your belly and inhale deeply so that it expands. As you exhale, contract your abdominal muscles and push your fingertips against your hard abdominal wall. Now pinch.

"You're holding pure fat," says Tom Seabourne, Ph.D., author of Athletic Abs. Do this every day, 30 minutes before your workout, and you'll find that you rarely decide to skip a session."

Ouch. I did the test and I am now even more committed to making healthy choices in my diet. Check out the whole site for great tips on health and wellness.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Zebra Mix Giveaway

I am always on the lookout for fun to be had with your kids. Since K and I have been on a cooking spree I found Zebra Mix and I am so excited to try these kits out with K. We are going to get the chocolate chip cookie bag!

(from the Zebra Mix Website) You will love eating our Chocolate Chip Cookies. But, we think the best part is in the process of making these cookies.

Each baking mix has on oversized Safari Baking Map with two levels of learning. Level 1 (age 4-9) is for non-readers, beginning readers and experienced readers. Level 2 is for ages 9 and up. Each level has aspirational learning and appeals to a variety of learning styles.

Using pictures, colorful illustrations and icons, kids learn math, science, practice critical thinking and they even learn how to write a scientific formula - all while they are Stirring Up Fun!®

It is the perfect kid-sized project for one, or set it up as a fun activity with family and friends.

I found the kit on Mammalicious Finds. They have great things for moms and kids. Visit their site to learn how to win a kit for yourself!

Toffee Anyone?

Hey Ladies, I know we are in the middle of a Fit Moms Challenge. But I am a firm believer in moderation and also happiness. One of the things that brings me happiness is good toffee. Click here to learn about a toffee giveaway from Funky Monkey and English Toffee Anytime. Good luck and if you win, you better share!

Moms Most Wanted Contest- Hot Mommy Next Door!



Visit Moms Most Wanted and see how to win The Hot Mommy Next Door book! Everyone knows I love talking about ways to get into your Pre Baby Jeans, and here is another helpful motivational tool...

(from Moms Most Wanted)
"At one point or another we all ask ourselves, "who am I?" When I first became a mom, this question took on a new level of importance for me. Before my son was born three and a half years ago, I could not answer it. But his birth put my life into perspective. In some regards, it was like undergoing my own rebirth. Finally I was able to define my own idenity and my goals to my own satisfaction. I was the happiest I'd ever been. Subsequently, after the birth of my daughter two years later, I gained more clarity and fine combed my answer. Unfortunately, I also gained weight. The good news was that the experience of two pregnancies and the resulting weight gain inspired me to take charge of my life and my fitness, and ultimately it inspired me to write this book. Everything I learned from my role as a mom about taking care of my body and health is in this book."

Alison takes you through an easy and effective way to loose the "baby weight" and to help you take charge of your life. This book is really easy to read and layed out well. You can easily use it as a second Bible for regaining your life and your weight.

Alison M. Fadoul is a certified Spinning® instructor and founder of The Hot Mommy Next Door, a web source and consulting service for mothers of newborns and young children. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and a Master of Science degree from Nova Southeastern University.

Click here to find out how to win! Good luck!

Sensa, now that looks easy!

I am not usually a supporter of diet "assistance". I am more of a believer that if you eat right and exercise than you can reach your goals. But since I read about this product on Bookie Boo (you should check out this site!) I am very intrigued.

Apparently you just sprinkle it on your food and you get full faster. As a breastfeeding mommy who sometimes feels like she can eat all three meals at once (I am ravenous...), I think I may have to look into it. And they are giving away 6 months to 2 lucky winners... Check it out and see what you think!

BPA- what is it and why should we care?


If you haven't heard yet, BPA is bad for you. What is BPA?

Bisphenol A, commonly abbreviated as BPA, is an organic compound that is an important monomer in the production of polycarbonate. Suspected of being hazardous to humans since the 1930s, concerns about the use of bisphenol A in consumer products grabbed headlines in 2008 when several governments issued reports questioning its safety, and some retailers pulled products made from it off their shelves. (from Wikipedia)

As an employee of a retailer that sold water bottles I was first made aware of BPA by a frantic email from corporate telling us to pull all our water bottles. I later learned that BPA can leach out of the product that contains it and enter the human body. When inside the body, it mimics hormones (such as estrogen). This "estrogenicity" has been linked to Breast Cancer in several studies.

So I thought, great, I will switch to a stainless steel water bottle (or my Stroller strides bottle which is BPA free). But I forgot about the baby! Here I was giving the little one a bottle filled with BPA (and milk). So soon after switching out the BPA for me, I found BPA free bottles for Ethan. I strongly suggest you mommies do the same, especially since the earlier the exposure to BPA, the higher the risks! Here is a list of BPA free baby bottles. I use the medela ones since they match up to my pump.

Read more about BPA on Seventh Generation's blog, the Biography of BPA...

Friday, February 20, 2009

You are what you eat, and your kids are watching you eat it...

Our culture is filled with immediate gratification- fast food, microwave meals, TV, video games, fast forward buttons and more. Long gone are the nights when families would eat together at the table and then get together for a board game. Or even (heaven forbid) read a book. Now it is scarf down some food in front of the TV and then some more TV. It is awful... No wonder childhood obesity is nearing epidemic proportions.

Eating healthy has always been one of my struggles. My husband and I have been blessed with fast metabolism, something I am assuming our children will also have. This means that self discipline is a skill I am still working on. But I am working on it... I have removed all the microwave meals from our freezer, cut our High Fructose Corn Syrup intake (studies show HFCS may contain mercury), increased the amount of fresh veggies and fruits we eat and we no longer have soda in the house. All good first steps...

I was recently reading on Kids Health a post about childhood obesity and it really opened my eyes as to how we are responsible as parents for passing on both good and bad eating habits to our children. We cannot just talk about what is healthy, we have to "practice what we preach" and make healthy eating and exercise a family affair.

As a Stroller Strides instructor I try to be a good role model to my moms and their children. Not perfect, but trying my best to make healthy choices about nutrition and exercise. It is wonderful in class seeing the children imitate our workout and I hope they continue to view exercise as something fun. But I also have to remember when I hang up the exercise bands and put the stroller away, I am still a role model to my own kids. So no more computer today! It's time to go on a bike ride with the kids and do something active together!

Monday, February 16, 2009

Self Discipline is the precursor to success.

Just remember this phrase as you start receiving your girl scout cookies this week. You do not have to eat the whole box at once. Although I know from experience that you really, really want to...

Friday, February 13, 2009

Six O'Clock Scramble- you only have until February 28th to win!



Ever feel like a chicken with your head cut off- running around trying to do 5 things at once. I do... Right now I am blogging, warming up food for Ethan and trying to clean the kitchen while moderating Kaiden brushing his teeth... Yikes. And with the Fit Moms Challenge I am also committed to making all home made meals.

But I have found an awesome tool to keep my mom sanity intact. It is The Six O'Clock Scramble. They offer inspiring ideas for quick and healthy dinners. They help you with menu planning, grocery lists and recipes. And Stroller Strides is giving away 5 1-month FREE memberships. Click here to get the rules.

This giveaway will end February 28 at 11:59 PM EST. 5 winners will be randomly selected and notified by email. US entries only, please.

Boogie Wipes- last chance to win!


Hey Moms, this is cold season and runny noses are a given in the Colorado cold. Even with the softest tissues our little ones noses can get a little raw. I recently tried Boogie Wipes instead of kleenex and they are awesome! They even come in travel packs for moms and kids on the go.

Boogie Wipes are the latest innovation in a moist wipe product for busy moms, dads & kids. With added saline, they offer quick, gentle, effective relief of stuck on Boogies (mucus) caused by the common cold & allergies.

How are Boogie Wipes different than a regular baby wipe?

* Made with Natural Saline to Dissolve Mucus
* Hypoallergenic
* Alcohol Free
* Moisturize with Vitamin E, Aloe and Chamomile

* Lightly Scented
* Gentle Enough for All Ages
* Phthalate & Paraben Free

The coolest part about boogie wipes is they come in kids approved scents... Like grape. Grape scented wipes, it's genius!

To give you a chance to try this great product, Stroller Strides is running a fun giveaway contest. Click here for the contest rules and check your February Stroller Strides newsletter for an amazing coupon code.

This giveaway will end February 15 at 11:59 PM EST. Winner will be randomly selected and notified by email. US entries only, please.

Love yourself this Valentines Day!

Hey Moms,
I just wanted to send out a note. On Valentines Day remember to give yourself a little love. Being a mom is a hard job, there are no how-to lists, only to-do lists. So pat yourself on the back and know that on this day, love really is enough.

Have a great Valentine's Day and spread love to all you meet!

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Rice Krispy Treats for Vegans!

So I made rice krispy treats last night without marshmallows or butter. Why would I take out the yummiest part of the treat? Well, hubby is a vegetarian and marshmallows have all sorts of yummy things in them like pigs hooves. Since he turned veg. 12 years ago he has not had a rice krispy treat. Every time I would eat a normal RK treat I would have to eat it for both of us. So sad...

So I decided to make some vegan treats for valentines. It was really just on a whim. Most recipes suggest using vegan marshmallows but I couldn't find any at the store. I could order them online though... But I wanted to make the RK treat right away!

I looked online and found this recipe...

Classic Rice Krispies Treats
Recipe By: Lisa Bennett, adapted from VegWeb.com
Serves 12
Preparation Time: 30 minutes, plus cooling time

1 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup brown rice syrup
1/2 cup sugar (white or unbleached)
1 tablespoon Earth Balance “Buttery Spread”
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6 cups Rice Krispies®

1. Spray a 9X13 pan with non-stick spray.

2. Add corn syrup, brown rice syrup, and sugar to a small, heavy-bottomed pot. Stir continuously and bring the mixture to a slow boil over medium heat. (If it gets frothy, turn down the heat.)

3. When the sugar is dissolved and the mixture has reached a slow boil, add margarine.
Stir until margarine is melted.

4. Remove from heat and add vanilla, still stirring.

5. While cooking the syrup, pour 5 cups of the cereal into a very large bowl.

6. Pour the heated syrup over the cereal and begin stirring with a heat-proof spoon (silicone, wood, metal) to combine the ingredients. Add another cup of cereal if your mixture looks too wet. (Some people like more candy, I like more cereal.)

7. Spread mixture into pan. Press flat with “buttered” hands or spray a piece of plastic wrap or disposable gloves with non-stick spray and use that to flatten out the mixture.

8. Let sit at room temperature for about 1 hour for best cohesion, but it’s perfectly OK to sample the warm Krispies if you can’t wait.

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Notes: For a healthier version - substitute brown rice syrup for the corn syrup, unbleached sugar for the white, and brown rice crispy cereal for the Rice Krispies.

They turned out pretty great and even better this morning for breakfast! Our son had no idea they were vegan and I am serving them at a playdate this AM. We will see if they pass the test!

Enjoy!