PreBabyJeans and Stroller Strides of Longmont

Consistency is key...

2011-03-02T21:53:00.000-08:00

Nope, not talking about consistent blogging... Because if that was the case I would be a big failure! The consistency I am talking about is the kind needed in parenting.

Monday I had a bad parenting day. Kaiden had thrown up the night before and I woke up feeling strange and dizzy. I went downstairs to cancel Stroller Strides which means posting in about four different locations on line. It is a little time consuming. So time consuming that in that time frame Ethan managed to put on his Toy Story slippers and let the cat out the back door. He also let himself out the back door. And he closed it.

So I am downstairs typing up a storm when Kaiden comes looking for me.

"Mommy, can I play XBox? And why is Ethan crying for you?"

Mommy intuition kicks in and I go running upstairs. I throw open the back door and there is Ethan, in his Thomas pajamas, crying and cold. I cuddled him close, ran upstairs and jumped under the covers to warm him up. Half my thoughts were on how cold his ears and hands were, the other half was wondering if the neighbors had heard him crying.

Am I really one of those parents? The one on the news closing the door to their messy house saying no comment as the reporter asks them if they knew their child was walking around in the cold morning with only their pajamas? How could that be me?

Terrible, yes, I know. It couldn't have been more than 3 minutes, but still.

My life as a mom is peppered with bad mom moments. The days when I let them watch more than 2 hours of TV a day (gasp), feed them candy to keep them happy, let their fingernails go uncut because I would rather not sit on them to cut them short and the list goes on. I like to think it is equally peppered with moments when I am a fantastic mother, truly the stuff only seen in movies (and not Mommy Dearest). Like when I crouched halfway in the MRI tube holding Kaiden's hand for his whole test. When I make almost every meal Kaiden eats to make sure it is gluten free (even though I never know if he will think it is gross). Even today when I shared Gummy Bears with Ethan (his first time) because sometimes kids just need to eat candy.

All those parenting books call for consistency. Consistency is key. But how can any parent be consistently fantastic. Is it possible. Should we even try for it. And if we fail?!? Oh the guilt!!! And does it ever end? Good mom, bad mom, angry mom, cuddly mom, crazy mom, lazy mom, up and down and up and down.

Ugh, is it just me? I guess I will just consistently try to do my best, something that shifts at every moment, and we'll have to leave it at that. Oh and put a top lock on the back door. Because I don't want to be on the news anytime soon.

LUNA MOMS CLUB: Personal care product companies are not required to test their products for safety prior to selling them... They would rather test it on YOU!

2010-08-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

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.

On this Mothers Day, I would like to thank... my sons!

2010-05-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

On Mother's Day families gather together to celebrate mothers and all they do for their families. As a mom, I know first hand the countless hours it takes to manage a family. I could use this whole post to catalog all the things I do- in fact sometimes I am up to my eyeballs in the stuff that I do, doo-doo, and to do's. But everything I do is tiny compared to what my children have done for me- or rather to me...

Just with their entrance into the world they have changed the very fiber of my being, they have moved the axis around which my world revolves, they have shifted the way I look at things profoundly that I cannot look at another suffering child or family without putting myself or my child in their place (and feeling utter heartbreak because of it). They have made me understand what it means to be proud, lost, overjoyed and in awe. They have made me felt a love that is beyond bounds and a worry that, even when unfounded, can consume your whole mind. What I do on a daily basis to care for my children is important, but what they have done for me is immeasurable. They have made me a Mother...

So this Mother's Day I celebrate all the mothers in the world. I celebrate their hard work, blood, sweat and tears. But I want to send a special thank you to Kaiden and Ethan. Since without them, I would never have become a Mother, and would never have been able to experience this amazing journey.

(And of course special big ups to my Mom too! Since without her I never would have been in the first place...)

Is Motherhood hard? Well, I wouldn't use that word...

2010-03-24T11:13:00.000-07:00

So I am sure I will have a lot of moms up in arms about the title of this post. I know that everyone loves to say being a mother is hard and I agree with the sentiment, but as I said above, I wouldn't use that word. Why? Because I am a person that believes in the power of words.

A yoga student went up to his teacher and asked him "Why do we have to chant "om" at the end of class?". The teacher replied, "The sound we make when saying OM helps us reach a deeper peace within us.". The student said, "Come on, just by saying the word I am supposed to become a more peaceful person? ". The teacher said, "You are being an asshole". The student got so angry he started yelling at his teacher. The teacher calmly said, "Do you still mistrust that saying just one word can change you?"
(totally paraphrased from my meditation teacher from many years ago)

When you are teaching your child something difficult and they are on the verge of giving up, what do they say? "I can't, it's TOO HARD!". If you have to choose between two equally awful decisions you are trapped between a rock and a HARD place. "Hard" is unyielding, unforgiving, unmalleable, and all it does is steal your power to be better in some way, even if it means changing how you think. After all, if it is hard, you have excuses to fail, to be late, to be unprepared, to be less than you could be.

Of course I know that being a mother is challenging. There are times that I want to crawl under a rock (when K, the oldest kid at a play date, is the worst sharer), retreat into a warm bath (when the house is a wreck and somehow does not have the ability to clean itself) or run away with my imaginary lover to tour some foreign land (when I am reading Eat, Pray, Love). But I can't say it is hard. I have to say difficult or problematic. I use a word that I know I can work with, something I can shape or form, something I can solve, plan around, prepare for... I cannot win against "hard" unless I smack up against it over and over, smashing it like a hammer against rock. And is that how we want to be mothers, or people for that matter?

So I am challenged daily... I am challenged to get out of the house on time with 2 (clean) children. I am working through the difficulty of providing healthy meals to a family of varied needs and tastes. I am having issues with communicating with my husband so that we can work together as a well oiled machine. I struggle through that extra mile on the treadmill, that one extra rep at Stroller Strides, no matter how exhausted.

I work with my challenges- I use my skills, my brain, my strength, my love, my heart and my patience to give it my best. And at the end, I use my forgiveness. Because I know that being a mother is ~~hard~~ a journey. And who doesn't love that word...

Take this job and shove it...

2010-03-19T22:37:00.000-07:00

Stay at home moms, don't you sometimes just want to quit. When the laundry is up to your eyeballs, nobody wants to eat the dinner you've slaved over, you are running 15 minutes late to everything and people are rolling their eyes at you as you give them 100 reasons you are late, the dog ate something it wasn't supposed to and now it is having "issues" and the list goes on and on...

Well too bad. You can't. Because it really isn't a job. You don't even have a job description. Salary? Nope, not that either. Performance evaluation? Well, unless you consider the word "gross" describing the dinner you made as a performance evaluation, you don't get one of those either. You don't even have a direct supervisor, unless you count your husband (as if!) or your kids (well I do call the older one "the little dictator").

So yes, I am venting. I am complaining. It seems to be something people do about their jobs, so I figured I would join in, even though technically I don't have a "job". But I suppose I do have the same gripes as people who work out in the "real world".

So let's break it down...

Common complaints from some one who has a "real job":
1. I don't know what my job entails, am I supposed to process the xxx data or is Joe?
So... As a stay at home mom, am I supposed to be in charge of the laundry, dishes, cleaning, shopping, dog walking, mail getting, bill paying, etc. Or am I just supposed to be entertaining, educating and enjoying my wonderful children? Because I feel like I should be doing all those things and when I don't I feel overwhelmed and a bit of a failure. (if I have time I will insert a picture of the pile of laundry sitting next to me)

2. I never feel appreciated, my boss never even says good job!
Do I even have to explain this one. I am supposing everyone who is reading this is a SAHM and you totally get this. I mean, have your kids ever said "thank you mom for doing the laundry so I have clean underwear"? And I mean without prompting.

3. To meet this deadline I have to work overtime! What happened to my weekends?
Weekends... As a SAHM do we even get these? There are still dishes, laundry, cleaning, shopping, dog walking, mail getting and bill paying to be done. (Are those part of my duties, I can't remember.) I thought weekends were supposed to be a respite from the drudgery of our work week. But since my hubby works out of the house all week all he wants to do is hang out at home. Since I am AT HOME all week all I want to do is GET OUT!!! So herein lies the rub. Don't get me wrong, my husband let's me (don't even get me started on the "let's me" part) have me-time on the weekends while he get to "be me", which I love. But when I return, the kids have not been fed, the laundry is not done, the dishes are still dirty, the mail is not fetched, and the house is a mess. Since at this time he is supposed to "be me", I am thinking that perhaps the above mentioned tasks are NOT part of my duties and I am once again being a workaholic (a label I got when I too worked in the "real world').

4. My salary sucks.
I allow myself $25 a week to spend on me and the kids and $400 to spend on groceries for the whole month. I know I am cheap, but my salary sucks. One mom friend posted on FB, "My daughter gets paid $10 an hour to babysit one kid. I have three kids and I take care of them everyday. Guess who makes more."

5. I have no possibility of promotion.
In nine years I will be promoted to the parent of a teenager. At this time I am sure to be awarded more attitude and given the bonus of increased requests for material possessions.

6. That B*^ch in accounting is always taking credit for my work.
I can't actually take credit for the wonderful things my children accomplish. They are truly wonderful, shining, funny, sweet, loving handfuls because that is who they were born to be. But I do like to credit for other things. Like when K pushes, or does not share. Or when E throws a tantrum, or was not walking at 18 months. Or when I found out that K is small because he is celiac and we have been feeding him wheat his whole life. Or that E can't sleep in his crib because I am constantly on the go so he is used to sleeping in the car.

Ugh, the list goes on. And so can I but this post has gotten too long already. So it has been established that I can't quit my non-job of SAHM. And I wouldn't want to. Laundry is not difficult, cleaning, although not my forte, is not rocket science, I like walking the dog and being responsible for the family finances. AND I do enjoy staying home with the kiddos. I also enjoy owning my own business (Stroller Strides) and having the flexibility to teach prenatal yoga.

So I guess I will stick with it... I mean who wouldn't when the job description entails a fuzzy list of duties, long hours, no weekends, no pay, no upward mobility, no sideways mobility, no bonuses, endless repetitive tasks a monkey could do, 100+ kisses a day from messy mouths, huge belly laughs, never ending noise, quiet moments of breathless beauty, countless opportunities to teach, even more opportunities to learn, and the possibility that once again the dog is having "issues".

LMC Weekly Tip: Breast Cancer Prevention Week #10

2010-03-15T21:42:00.000-07:00

PRECAUTIONARY PRINCIPLE:

There are over 100,000 synthetic chemicals approved for market use today, from preservatives in our lipstick to flame retardants in our sofas, from plasticizers in our water bottles to pesticides on our fruit and vegetables. Less than 10% of these chemicals have been tested for their effects on human health. The average American carries at least 116 chemicals in his or her body, yet scientists can tell us next to nothing about the lifetime effects of living with this toxic "cocktail" of chemicals. To learn more, visit www.TakingPrecaution.org.

The Breast Cancer Fund is a founding member of the Bay Area Precautionary Principle Working Group (BAWG), an innovative collaborative made up of leaders from the breast cancer, public health, environmental health and environmental justice communities, formed to promote the implementation of the precautionary principle in the Bay Area and assist other regions of the country in their efforts to do that same.

LMC Weekly Tip: Breast Cancer Prevention Week #10

2010-03-09T12:03:00.000-08:00

DISPROPORTIONATE IMPACT OF BREAST CANCER:
While more white women get breast cancer than African American women, more African American women will die of the disease. There are environmental exposures that are unique to African Americans like the more common use of hormone-containing personal care products. Please help us spread the word about the challenges for African American women. Request copies of and help distribute The Environmental Risks of Breast Cancer in African American Women.

While fewer Latinas get breast cancer than other groups, breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in Latina women in the United States. Experts say Latina breast cancer is understudied and that we simply do not have accurate data to know just how hard breast cancer is hitting these women. Read more about the Latina experience in BCF’s 2006 newsletter. To help distribute our print newsletter a few times a year, fill out a volunteer form.

Gotta love good daddies!

2010-02-09T21:05:00.000-08:00

Drew Brees and his son Baylen... You can't tell what he is saying to him, but you can just imagine the words he is sharing with his son on this special day. I am not a Saints fan (or a Colts fan) but I am a big fan of good daddies. And you can just tell how much Drew loves his little guy. So cute...

Luna Moms Weekly Tip- Breast Cancer Prevention

2010-02-03T20:56:00.000-08:00

Get Outside!

Exercise can help protect against breast cancer and many other negative health outcomes. Physical activity reduces your exposures to certain ovarian hormones. Exercise with weights helps build muscle and reduce body fat, lowering your level of circulating estrogen. Lower levels of ovarian hormones and circulating estrogen both decrease your breast cancer risk.

Through annual outdoor physical challenges, the Breast Cancer Fund enables breast cancer survivors and supporters to find strength through adversity and make strides to eliminate the environmental causes of breast cancer. For more information on this once in a lifetime experience go to Climb Against the Odds at www.breastcancerfund.org/climb.

Schedule for the Five Days of Fun, Fitness and Friends!

2010-01-24T16:34:00.000-08:00

WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY
27	28	29	30	31
6am- Reformer- with Move Pilates	6am- Boot camp- Fit Chicks Express	7:30- Mat Pilates with Move Pilates
7:30- Mat Pilates- with Move Pilates	9:10am- Stroller Strides	1am- Reformer with Move Pilates	9:10- Stroller Strides	11am- Vinyasa Yoga with Solar Yoga
- Nia- with Christina Stott	5:30pm- Gentle Yoga	12pm- Vinyasa Yoga with Solar Yoga	11:15- Zumba with Axis of Movement	Brunch at big daddy’s Bagels
6pm- Boot Camp-Fit Chicks Express	7pm- Vinyasa Yoga- Solar Yoga-
7pm- Hot Yoga Flow- Solar Yoga

Wednesday 6am reformer class actually starts at 6:30 and the schedule cut out the Sunday 11 am Vinyasa class at Solar Yoga...

Email elaine@moxie-moms.com to get on the list! Remember, the whole schedule is only $5 if you are not a Moxie Mom and FREE if you are!

Thanks to our awesome Moxie Mom partners!!!

Zooey, I had to post!!!

2010-01-21T20:36:00.001-08:00

This is my cousin in the Cash Cab!!! I love it!

The greatest gift you can give your children...

2010-01-20T16:44:00.000-08:00

The greatest gift you can give your children is to take care of yourself and to live your life as you hope they will live theirs...

Five Days of Fun, Fitness and Friends! (and all for free, or almost free!)

2010-01-19T14:06:00.000-08:00

Moxie Moms and Luna Moms are partnering up to offer 5 days of fitness classes with all our community partners! Moxie Moms- your 5 days of fitness is FREE! If you are not a Moxie Mom, for 10+ classes, you only have to pay $5!!! That is less than $.50 a class (a little more than a stamp!) and most of these classes start with a $15 drop in up to $60 for reformer classes! So this is a huge deal! If you decide to sign up for Moxie Moms let me know ASAP!

Every day there will be 2 (or more) options to choose from- one strenuous and one soothing. That means no matter your fitness level you can GET OUT THERE AND MOVE! There will be varying times to fit into our daily mom schedule and there may even be daycare options available.

Just in time for Valentine's Day- get svelte with boot camp classes, flexible with yoga, strong with pilates, sensual with Zumba and more!!!

So by now, everyone knows I teach Stroller Strides classes. So obviously, Stroller Strides will be a strenuous option. But here are some other fitness choices you have for the 5 days!

- pilates mat classes with Move Pilates
- Reformer classes with Move Pilates
- Boot Camp workouts
- Zumba with Axis of Movement
- Nia with Christina Stott
- Gentle Yoga
- Hot Yoga

To participate follow these steps!
1. RSVP to elaine@moxie-moms.com and you will get a schedule in your email on Friday by 9pm!
2. Once you receive the email RSVP for individual classes to me via email elaine@moxie-moms.com - the schedule will let you know how many spaces are available. Classes are first come first serve so sign up fast!
3. You can invite others to come with you as long as they RSVP and pay $5 to attend.
4. I will be at all the classes (collecting the $5 if it is your first class) and will be monitoring guest lists as well as handing out raffle tickets at each class
5. At the end of the FIVE DAYS OF FREE FITNESS I will select three raffle tickets for prizes, so the more classes you attend the better your chances of winning massages, Gift certificates for coffee, free meals, etc!
So RSVP NOW and get moving!!!

(These are intro classes which our partners are offering to give you a taste of what they do. If you love a class or teacher, please let them know. Sign up to take their class, return their support. Local businesses thrive only with our support so make sure you show them love! And of course, Moxie Moms get a 15% discount on classes at all these awesome partners if they choose to sign up!!!)

Breast Cancer Prevention Luna Moms Club Tip

2010-01-19T08:39:00.000-08:00

It's about prevention!

This weeks Luna Moms Club tip...

Studies have found potential links between pesticides and breast cancer risk. Pesticides and other synthetic chemicals are found in our food.

Read labels, ask your grocer to stock organic produce and hormone-free meats and dairy products, and look for organic food at your local farmers’ market. Look for natural alternatives to chemical weed and bug killers and take preventative measures such as mulching for weeds and using traps, barriers, fabric row covers, or plant-based repellents to get rid of pests.

The pesticides of greatest concern for breast cancer are used in the agricultural setting. To take a step further, visit the Pesticide Action Network website (www.panna.org) to clean up the environment beyond your home.

Fact: Did you know LUNA bars are made with 70% organic and 100% entirely natural ingredients?

Bra colors for Breast Cancer Awareness- Breast Cancer Prevention Week #2

2010-01-11T21:08:00.000-08:00

This week saw a slew of color posts on FB. Why? Well, it was color your status for Breast Cancer Awareness. What? It didn't make sense to me, but it did get a lot of people posting and talking about it. So perhaps it worked! Soon after the color postings, there were other posts calling for prayers for a cure for cancer.

I posted something similar to the prayers post, but I added a little sumpin sumpin extra- a call for more PREVENTION and EDUCATION on the products that we use EVERYDAY that are actually carcinogenic...

So to add on...

Here is my Luna Moms Tip of the Week

Breast Cancer Prevention Week #2

Create a Healthy Home

Make your home a chemical-free sanctuary. Many household items, including paper products and cleaning supplies, contain cancer-causing chemicals. These products can be replaced with safer, non-toxic alternatives available at your local supermarkets and health food stores. Plus, by making smart purchases you let manufacturers and retailers know that you won’t stand for toxic products.

Some plastics leach chemicals into the substances they touch, so you should try to choose non-plastic alternatives when possible.

Avoid microwaving your food in plastic containers or in plastic wrap. Choose ceramic or glass containers instead.
Swap plastic water bottles for stainless steel or aluminum options.
Choose non-toxic baby toys and shower curtains instead of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), plastic or vinyl.

Eat a banana today!

2010-01-10T07:53:00.000-08:00

Banana's are good for you because they are full of Potassium. Potassium plays an important role decreasing the risk of high blood pressure and stroke, it increases strength and helps reduce stress. Toss some in a blender with milk and yogurt for a tasty, filling and nutritious snack and get your calcium in there too!

My Top 10 ways to get fit after the holidays...

2010-01-06T22:05:00.000-08:00

Whew, the holidays are finally over, and just in time! During the holidays I managed to attend 2 cookie exchanges, 3 holiday dinners, 1 book club/MNO (heavy on the MNO, light on the book part) and ended up eating most of the cookies for Santa. Now in the midst of my new Years Resolutions, I can't seem to get my skinny jeans back on...

Thank goodness I have a pretty healthy base to return to and (of course) Stroller Strides!

Twittermoms asked moms to post our top 10 ways to get fit after the holidays and since there may be some of you in the same boat, I thought I would share mine, since I definitely will be using all 10 to get back into shape this month!

My Top 10 ways to get fit after the holidays
1. Throw out all your holiday sweets. Out with the old and in with the new. That's right, throw out all the holiday cookies, candy canes, peppermints and more. Anything with High Fructose Corn Syrup gets the boot. I am usually pretty vigilant about the no HFCS, but during the holidays, this tends to slip. So I toss out the sweets and bring in the fruits and veggies. A clementine is very sweet and a perfect substitute when you need a treat.

2. Commit to working out 5 times a week. Even if it is just a 20 minute walk, definitely get up and move at least 5 times a week.

3. Add weights to your workout. I know a lot of us give up on our workout routines during the winter holidays. This means a loss of muscle mass, which translates to less muscle burning less fat. Try to do a weight workout 2 out of the 5 times you work out. I suggest Stroller Strides for new moms with babies in the stroller since it is a complete workout, both cardio and weight bearing.

4. Suck it in... What do I mean? I mean the belly button! Engage your core during all movements. And do so with intent- picture your stomach muscles as a corset and try to bring both sides together. This will engage the transverse abdominus. A strong transverse abdominus helps support your spine which assists in balance and coordination in all of your daily movements. We can only engage our TA in movement so those that sit all day may have a weakened TA. When it weakens, it doesn't do a good job of holding your internal organs in place, which allows your belly to bulge. (insert very sad face here...)

5. Make a schedule. I am a schedule freak. For Christmas I asked for not one, but two planners. Scheduling helps me figure out the day, prepare and then execute. Not only does this mean I schedule in my time to work out, it also means that I am not screaming at my older son, "go, go, go!" as we run out the door 10 minutes late. Why does avoiding being a "screamer" help me get fit after the holidays? When I am the "screamer" I am stressed, and when I am stressed I tend to reach for unhealthy options to soothe my stressed self. Staying one step ahead of the game keeps me sane and away from the emergency cookies.

6. Remember to stretch! With all the running, lifting and what not I am doing to lose the pounds, I always need to remember to get a great yoga class in there somehow. Flexibility is very important in preventing injuries and the de-stress I get from yoga is irreplaceable!

7. Keep a glass of water by the bed. I am not a water drinker, one of my New Years Resolutions is to drink more water. So with a glass (16 oz) by the bed, I sit up, chug it and am done with half my daily quota! When a person is dehydrated their body compensates by retaining excess water as a protective measure (the dreaded water weight). Also, dehydration significantly lowers metabolism.

8. Brush your teeth with your kids. I swear by this tip. When you get your kids ready for bed brush your teeth with theirs. You will be reminded by your minty fresh breath that late night snacks are a no-no!

9. Laundry/grocery bag workouts... For some reason there is a lot of laundry in the winter and also more grocery shopping. Apparently we eat more to stay warm and wear lots of layers in my house... So #9 tip is a two parter. First is to be incredibly inefficient when doing the laundry. Run up and down the stairs with 5 separate piles, instead of just one. And before putting away all those groceries, remember to bust out as many bicep curls as possible.

10. Talk about your goals and find a workout buddy! Tell everyone you are on the road to health and wellness so they can support you. Schedule workout dates or better yet, go to a class with other women with the same goals(perhaps Stroller Strides?!?). Research shows that having a friend to share a weight loss or diet experience with can increase success, so don't be afraid to share.

I am hoping they pick my top 10 so I can win a Wii Sports EA SPORTS Active™ Personal Trainer! Wish me luck and feel free to share your tips too!

Working Moms- Stroller Strides has Saturday classes!

2009-12-28T21:32:00.000-08:00

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.

2009-12-28T21:02:00.000-08:00

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!

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

2009-12-23T14:56:00.000-08:00

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

Prenatal Yoga Starting January!

2009-12-22T13:56:00.000-08:00

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!!!

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

2009-12-20T20:55:00.001-08:00

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!

Wrapping gifts for the Holidays? Consider this...

2009-12-15T22:10:00.001-08:00

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.

More on Healthy Air for the Holidays

2009-11-25T13:58:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-25T13:53:00.000-08:00

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.

My First Year as a Stroller Strides Franchise Owner!

2009-11-01T20:31:00.000-08:00

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!

Sammy Sack blankets

2009-10-26T20:53:00.000-07:00

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!

The Fit Moms Challenge- Fall 2009

2009-10-13T22:29:00.000-07:00

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!)

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

2009-09-14T20:59:00.001-07:00

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.

What's in your water bottle?

2009-09-08T13:26:00.000-07:00

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...

2009-09-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

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.

Work for mom and not the man!

2009-08-19T14:46:00.000-07:00

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!

Shoes off!

2009-08-17T21:15:00.001-07:00

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.

Support for Motherhood- Thank Goodness for Friends!

2009-08-13T20:53:00.001-07:00

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!

Moms on a Mission

2009-08-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

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.

Snikiddy Snacks Contest for Stroller Strides participants!

2009-07-06T14:36:00.000-07:00

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 Snack s and print out a $1 off coupon!

Post Pregnancy- Small Changes Equal Big Success

2009-07-02T15:14:00.000-07:00

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!

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

2009-06-24T17:50:00.000-07:00

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!

Get your Strength For Motherhood...

2009-06-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to win a BOB Stroller?!?

2009-06-11T16:49:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-06-09T16:11:00.001-07:00

You've got to have good sneakers!

2009-05-18T22:46:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-05-12T21:43:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-12T16:20:00.001-07:00

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!

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

2009-05-11T14:43:00.000-07:00

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!

Working Moms- Stroller Strides has Saturday classes!

2009-05-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

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!

May is Pregnancy Awareness Month

2009-05-08T15:39:00.001-07:00

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"

2009-05-08T15:24:00.000-07:00

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.

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

2009-05-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

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!

Amazon discount on Earth's Best Foods

2009-05-02T15:45:00.001-07:00

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)

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

2009-04-14T07:35:00.001-07:00

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.

Eating for 2- tips for healthy eating while expecting!

2009-04-07T12:35:00.001-07:00

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!

Zebra Mix Contest for Fit Moms Challenge

2009-03-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

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!!!

The Breast Cancer Fund

2009-03-23T16:54:00.000-07:00

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.

I want an ERGO...

2009-03-12T16:27:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-12T16:08:00.001-07:00

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!

2009-03-12T14:27:00.000-07:00

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)

Mardi Gras at the Boulder Fairgrounds

2009-03-10T22:51:00.001-07:00

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!

Stroller Strides- what have you done for me lately?

2009-03-05T13:23:00.000-08:00

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...

2009-03-05T12:33:00.000-08:00

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.

Best test for fat loss...

2009-02-26T17:24:00.001-08:00

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.

Zebra Mix Giveaway

2009-02-25T21:20:00.000-08:00

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?

2009-02-25T20:58:00.000-08:00

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!

2009-02-25T20:26:00.000-08:00

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!

2009-02-25T15:18:00.000-08:00

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?

2009-02-25T14:29:00.000-08:00

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...

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

2009-02-20T15:35:00.000-08:00

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!

Self Discipline is the precursor to success.

2009-02-16T14:14:00.001-08:00

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...

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

2009-02-13T22:09:00.001-08:00

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!

2009-02-13T22:06:00.001-08:00

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!

2009-02-13T21:47:00.000-08:00

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!

Rice Krispy Treats for Vegans!

2009-02-10T08:09:00.000-08:00

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.

—————
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!

Write it down! To really see weight loss keep a food journal...

2009-02-08T11:39:00.000-08:00

The Stroller Strides Fit Moms Challenge entry fee includes many things- support, weekly emails and team motivation. But it also included a food journal. Why? Well the reason is simple! Read below from SparkPeople how writing down what you eat can help you make lasting healthy change.

from The Key to Weight Loss Success- It's Write In Front of You

"I feel the most important action one can take when trying to lose weight is to keep a food diary," says SparkPeople dietitian Becky Hand. "Yes, it takes time to write down everything consumed during the day, but this in itself can curtail overeating and be vital for self-assessment and monitoring"

Studies show that people who keep food journals lose more weight and keep more of that weight off in the long run. The National Weight Control Registry–an ongoing research project tracking more than 3,000 people who’ve lost an average of 66 pounds and kept it off for five years–found that keeping a food journal is the one strategy used by the majority of successful dieters. In fact, in a study of 685 dieters conducted by a health insurance company, the best predictor of weight loss throughout the first year was the number of food records kept per week. Another recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that dieters who tracked their food intake in a "food diary" lost twice as much weight as those who didn't track their food.

Why keep a food journal?

* Tracking the food we consume forces us to take responsibility for our food choices. It shows what we're really eating.
* An accurate food journal helps us see eating patterns, giving us insight into when and why we eat.
* Monitoring the foods we eat helps us estimate calorie intake, so we can make adjustments, by eating less or exercising more.

If you're beginning a program to change your habits, you may want to start with a baseline food journal that keeps track of a "typical" week of food choices and exercise. This way, you'll have a better handle on what you need to work on-- problem times or situations, circumstances that make it difficult to eat healthy, and so on. The level of detail you record depends on your goals, but some possible things to jot down include:

* What you eat and how much you eat: You can estimate portions, but be honest and be thorough-- don't forget items such as candy, condiments, etc. Record as you go to ensure accuracy.
* When and where you eat: Time of day, how long you were eating, if you ate in a fast-food restaurant or the company cafeteria, etc.
* Who you were with and any other activity you were involved in: Were you reading or watching TV, or having brunch with your best friend?
* Your mood while eating: Were you bored, frustrated, happy? This may tell you whether you engage in emotional eating—eating triggered by mood, not hunger.
* Any exercise you did, including the activity, length and intensity, and estimate of calories burned.
* Any special categories for which you want to monitor consumption, such as carbohydrates, fat, or fiber content.

Once you have a baseline journal, you can set priorities for what to work on. Do you eat well when eating by yourself, but go overboard when you're with friends? Does the routine of a workday keep you in line, while the freedom of the weekend weakens your willpower? Do you subsist on convenience foods that are heavy on processing but light on nutrients and real taste? Important things to consider include:

* What is your real motivation for eating? Are you truly hungry when you eat or are you eating for emotional reasons?
* Do you eat well-balanced meals with reasonable serving sizes? If not, map out the changes you’d like to make.
* Do you eat at appropriate intervals, or do you eat a little and then overindulge later? It may seem counterintuitive, but eating smaller amounts more often may keep your energy high, and prevent overeating.

A food journal allows you to compare your habits to the healthy habits recommended by experts: getting 25 grams of fiber a day, limiting fat intake to 35 percent of your total calorie intake, and consuming fewer calories than your body burns daily. You can then continue to track what’s important to you—whether it involves elaborate detail or very simple information.

Keeping a food journal can make us uncomfortable because doing so forces us to recall things we’d rather not take note of—that chocolate shake we had for lunch, or that extra mound of mashed potatoes we regretted as soon we inhaled it. In other words: no pain, no gain. When you see the foods you’ve eaten listed in black-and-white, you can’t wish them away. But pain, even metaphorical pain, can be the impetus for change—and if used consistently, a food journal can be the instrument of that change.

Originally posted on SparkPeople
-- By Rebecca Pratt, staff writer

If you don't want to write in a book and prefer the computer- check out SparkPeople's free online Food Tracker!

Don't join Stroller Strides or the Fit Moms Challenge to lose weight...

2009-02-07T17:58:00.000-08:00

What! But isn't that what will happen if you add exercise into your life? Well, yes. But I want you to consider some of the other things that may also come with adding Stroller Strides (or another daily exercise program) and healthy nutrition into your life.

1. More energy to chase your kids around making you a more interactive parent. Exercise strengthens your heart and lungs to work more efficiently. This means you'll have more energy to do the things you enjoy.

2. Your kids will see exercise as something that is fun, not something that you have to do or will get to later. Childhood obesity is so prevalent in today's society that making exercise fun will affect our kids in positive ways that we can only imagine!

3. Since the majority of moms do the cooking and grocery shopping, moms that make healthy food choices for themselves will also make healthy choices for their families. This will positively affect the health and energy of the family as a whole.

4. A better sex life... Yup, I said it. And not because of your fit body, but because exercise increases endorphins, sex drive and circulation. There have been studies to prove it!

5. A better outlook on life- see the above for endorphins! Exercise can put you in a better mood as well as reduce stress, depression and anxiety. And we all know the effects of a cranky mom on the whole family...

6. Exercise can also combat chronic disease... Like heart disease, osteoporosis, even high blood pressure. It has also been shown to prevent type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer.

7. Exercise promotes better sleep, and better sleep can improve your concentration, productivity and mood. Better sleep also translates into more energy during the day for the things you like to do.

8. Exercise can be a fun way to meet new people. Take a yoga class, take a salsa class, if you are a mom, take Stroller Strides and meet other moms for friendship and support. These new friends can also be your motivational support when you feel like jumping off the healthy bandwagon!

9. Exercise also strengthens and boosts your immune system. Got kids? Then you have germs- and really strong ones too. Exercise can boost your immune system to fight the super germs that kids like to bring home from daycare and school. Meaning you can get on with the business of being a mom.

10. And I guess the last things would be that yes, exercise will help you maintain a healthy weight.

Check out this video and learn why other moms are joining the Stroller Strides Fit Challenge. Each mom is so inspirational and they remind me why I became a franchise owner... The reason was to create a community that empowers and inspires moms to make healthy choices for themselves and their families.

And I love the kids doing the exercises at the end- just goes to show you they pick up things from us all the time. It's up to us to be healthy role models!

Consignment sale alerts!

2009-02-05T21:16:00.000-08:00

There are a couple of great consignment sales coming up in the Longmont area. If you are a frugal mom, aren't we all these days, you should check them out. The best part about these sales is that you can get clothes, toys, furniture, books and more all in one place. Yes, the prices are a little bit more than garage sale prices, but it is so much more convenient and the quality and cleanliness is much better. Some sales even discount the prices on the last day of the sale.

Your Little Ones Locker
GOING ON NOW!
Where:The American Legion in Firestone, CO.
870 First Street
Firestone, Colorado
Phone: 303-668-8004
Located Just Southeast of Safeway on WCR 13 (Colorado Blvd). Go east on Grant (WCR 18). Across the street from City Hall.

When:
Friday February 6, 2009 9:30 am-3 pm Open to Public
Saturday February 7, 2009 9:30 am – 3 pm Open to Public
Sunday February 8, 2009 12 Noon - 5 pm 1/2 price day* Open to Public

Shop Kids Consignment Event
Where: Imagine Charter School at Firestone
5753 Twilight Ave.
Firestone, CO
When:
Saturday, February 14, 2009- 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 15, 2009- 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
http://www.shopkids event.com

RMCC MOPS Consignment Sale
Where: Boulder County Fairgrounds - Longmont
Feb 20-21

Shop Kids Consignment Event
Where: Imagine! Center
1665 Coal Creek Drive
Lafayette, CO
When:
Saturday, March 28, 2009- 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Sunday, March 29, 2009- 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Boulder County Parents of Twins Spring Sale
Where: Boulder Valley Christian Church
7100 S. Boulder Rd.
www.boulder-twins.org
When:
Saturday, May 2, 9:00am - noon

Just Between Friends Sale
Where: Boulder County Fairgrounds
When:
May 8 - 11- Fri - Mon, 9am - 7pm
http://longmont. jbfsale.com/

Happy Saving and Happy Shopping!

Do you find yourself getting Mad at Dad?

2009-02-04T12:02:00.000-08:00

The Well Mom just posted a link to this fantastic article- Mad at Dad. I could completely relate! My husband is a great father and I admit he is not as bad as the examples (sometimes he is great) but transitioning into a SAHM role I feel the anger this article describes bubbling quite close to the surface. Perhaps I should send the link to my husband instead of posting it here!

Six O'clock Scramble Giveaway!

2009-02-03T19:02:00.000-08:00

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, and I am SO entering this contest! I hope someone from Longmont wins!

Boogie Wipes- A genius invention for little ones runny noses!

2009-02-03T18:48:00.000-08:00

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.

Have fun ladies and check back often for more fun stuff from Stroller Strides of Longmont!

Fit Moms Challenge- Moms get ready, get set, get fit!

2009-02-02T21:01:00.000-08:00

The New Year always brings resolutions. This is the year to keep them!

Pre Baby Jeans and Stroller Strides of Longmont is hoping that you will look at your total health – mind, body and spirit. Although a certain weight on the scale might be your desire, it is your strength and vitality that make you beautiful. For 2009 not only do we want you to commit to be active at some point EACH day, but we also want you to commit to strengthening your inner beauty and spirit.

If you are ready to make a commitment to your health than join The Fit Moms Challenge! This challenge is a way for moms to get in the best shape of their lives. It is being offered nationwide in conjunction with Stroller Strides.

Each week, you will get tips on nutrition, fitness, motivation and more! You will also be able to test your fitness throughout the challenge to see your progress. The best part is that you participate in the challenge as a team. This means you have a built in support network! And the support does not stop there! There is also a facebook page with participants nationwide sharing their stories, successes and challenges.

If you are really ready to take it to the next level and get in the best shape of your life, join the Fit Moms Challenge!

Clipping coupons for organic foods- it is possible!

2009-01-31T13:03:00.000-08:00

With food prices rising, you can pick up some of the slack with coupons. There may not be as many coupons for organics, but they are out there. You just have to do some leg work.

Make sure to look where you shop. At your local co-op and/or Whole Foods stores, you’ll find some coupons right in the stores. Since they focus on organic and natural foods, you can usually find coupons for the products you really use. Whole Foods usually has some store-only coupons in their brochures that advertise the specials of the month.

Don’t forget the free magazines at the registers either. Mambo Sprouts and Delicious Living often have great coupons in them that you can use at any store that accepts coupons. Sometimes you can find the product on sale and many regular grocery chains double coupons for an added bonus. Delicious Living also has a page on their Web site that links to printable coupons, so make sure to check there before you take your trip to the store.

Manufacturer Web sites are another place to find coupons. Some people also have luck emailing customer service with praise and asking for some coupons. Amy’s sent me some awesome coupons this way.

Here are a few links around the web that you should take a look at:

* Sign up for Muir Glen’s Tomato Connoisseurs Club and you can print out a coupon for $1.00 off any Muir Glen product.
* Organic Valley always has coupons to print out on their Web site. They have a great selection of coupons that usually include cheese, butter and milk.
* Organic Valley’s sister site, Organic Prairie, has some coupons to print out for their organic meat. Right now that includes deli meat, hot dogs, steak and more!
* Horizons Dairy has coupons for butter and Milk Plus DHA Omega-3.
* Turtle Mountain’s sign-up will get you some of their non-dairy frozen dessert coupons by mail.
* Stonyfield Farm also has some tons of yogurt coupons online for you to print out.
* And Brown Cow also has coupons on their site, if they are your favorite brand.
* Take Earthbound Farm’s quiz and they’ll send you a $1.00 off coupon for any Earthbound Farm product.

While Seventh Generation doesn’t make food, they do have great green cleaners and coupons. Another site to sign up with is HealthESavers. They change the coupons monthly, and right now they have a .75 off coupon for Tofurky.

Keep track of how much money you save and the amount of time that you put in. I think you’ll find it’s really worth your while.

Originally posted by Kathy Hester at Divine Caroline.

Join the Stroller Pushers Team as we March For Babies Everywhere!

2009-01-28T22:00:00.000-08:00

Join Ethan, Kaiden and Robert as we walk to support the March of Dimes.

One day... all babies will be born healthy

today... too many moms and families know the heartbreak of having a baby born fighting to survive

I've joined March for Babies because the March of Dimes champions the needs of moms and babies in our community and across the nation. The money we raise for March for Babies will help:

- support all-important research offering preventions and solutions for babies born too soon or with birth defects

- educate women on things they can do to increase their chances of having a healthy baby

- provide comfort and information to families with a newborn in intensive care

- push for newborn screening and health insurance for all pregnant women and children

Please help by donating today!

It's easy, safe and secure - just click the blog title to link to my personal page and make your donation there!

The mission of March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.

Got only 30 minutes?

2009-01-09T15:01:00.000-08:00

Your child has been asleep for 1 hour and naptime ends in 30 minutes. If only you hadn't "wasted" that one hour doing the laundry! Now you don't have any time to work out!

Don't relax on the sofa just yet because with these 4 tips you can turn those 30 minutes into a butt busting awesome workout!

1. Figure out what your goals are- weight loss, toning, endurance, etc. Target your workout to directly address these goals. If you only have 30 minutes and want to increase your endurance then focus more on sustaining exercises that are cardio in nature- stair sprints for example. If you are looking to burn fat, than use as much muscle as possible.

Keeping your goal in mind, create a program alternating cardio and weights. For weights do 10 - 15 repetitions per set then move into the cardio for 2-4 minutes. Do not rest in between instead go into the next set. Do two or three circuits. If your goal is endurance then strive towards 5 minute cardio bursts instead of the 2-4 range. If your goal is muscle building then use a slightly heavier weight and do 10 reps slowly (as opposed to 15 reps of a lighter weight).

Example- bicep curls (10), stair sprints (3 min), bicep curls, stairs, bicep curls, stairs

2. 2 is better than one! Do exercises that use 2 sets of muscles- one example is squats with bicep curls. You work upper and lower body at the same time!

Example- bicep curls with squats (10), stair sprints (3 min), bicep curls with squats, stairs, bicep curls with squats, stairs

3. Pair synergistic exercises-two moves that work the same muscles. Usually, the first is a compound move to work a lot of muscles, the second a single-joint exercise to focus on one large muscle. Superset your last of 3 sets with the single joint exercise to really feel the burn and see results quickly in muscle tone and growth.

bicep curls with squats (10), stair sprints (3 min), bicep curls with squats, stairs, bicep curls with squats, stairs, shoulder press with reverse lunge(5 reps then switch sides for 5 more reps), jumping jacks (3 minutes), shoulder press with reverse lunge, jumping jacks, shoulder press with reverse lunge, lateral raise (15 reps)

4. Work your whole body including your abs. Use synergistic and multi-muscle group moves to complete a total body workout. Working your whole body allows you to fatigue every muscle group to see results all over! Also, you won't over work or neglect any muscle groups preventing any training imbalances. Finish off your workout with abs- but make sure to cool down first before laying down to bring the heart rate down slowly and safely.

bicep curls with squats (10), stair sprints (3 min), bicep curls with squats, stairs, bicep curls with squats, stairs, shoulder press with reverse lunge(5 reps then switch sides for 5 more reps), jumping jacks (3 minutes), shoulder press with reverse lunge, jumping jacks, shoulder press with reverse lunge, lateral raise (15 reps), 1 minute cool down walk around the house picking up trash, crunches for 30 seconds, reverse crunches for 30 seconds, and then 2 minutes for stretches.

You have just busted out a total body workout in around 30 minutes! Now pat yourself on the back and wake up that baby!

Say no to sugary drinks!

2009-01-05T13:50:00.000-08:00

Sugary Beverage Consumption On The Rise

Over the past two decades, the number of adults consuming sugar-sweetened beverages such as soft drinks, fruit drinks and punches has increased dramatically, according to a study led by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

“More adults are drinking sugar-sweetened beverages and, among those drinkers, consumption has increased,” said Sara N. Bleich, PhD, lead author of the study. “From 1988 to 2004, the percentage of sugar-sweetened beverage drinkers increased five percent. Per capita consumption of energy from sugar-sweetened beverages increased 46 kilocalories (kcal) per day, and daily sugar-sweetened beverage consumption among drinkers increased 6 ounces per day.”

Sugar-sweetened beverage consumption was highest among young adults (231-289 kcal/day), who consumed roughly 20% of their sugar-sweetened beverage calories at work, and lowest among the elderly (68-83 kcal/day). Among race/ethnicity groups, the percentage of sugar-sweetened beverage drinkers and per capita consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages was highest among blacks followed by Mexican Americans. Overweight/obese adults who were trying to lose weight were less likely to drink sugar-sweetened beverages compared to those who were not, but they still consumed a considerable amount from 1999 to 2004 (278 kcal/day).

“Although this analysis does not attempt to estimate the effect of sugar-sweetened beverage intake on obesity incidence, a number of studies have linked sugar-sweetened beverage consumption to obesity and type 2 diabetes,” said coauthor Youfa Wang, MD, PhD. “Based on these nationally representative surveys, our study found higher sugar-sweetened beverage consumption also happened to be among populations at greater risk for obesity. There are few signs of improvement over the past decade and the situation seems to become worse among young adults aged 20 to 44.”

So say no to sugary drinks and instead drink water with a spritz of juice. Or if you feel like you need the fizz than add juice to seltzer water. You may crave the soda for a few days but this is only the withdrawal talking. Stay strong and your will see a difference in your energy, well being and waistline!

Happy New Years!

2008-12-31T18:59:00.001-08:00

Today I started class talking about goals and resolutions. Both ladies in class said they did not usually make resolutions since they never stick to them. I encouraged them to make change instead of resolutions. Once we make lasting change in our life we can achieve whatever we set out to do. Remember, you only have to do things 3 weeks in a row for it to become a new habit! On the reverse, you have to refrain from doing something for 2 weeks before you lose that habit!

If you are like many people you have had an idea of a 2009 resolution in the back of your mind. Amid the many holiday meals, you envision a slimmer, healthier you in the future. We make plans in 2009 to go running, take the dogs for walks or bike with our kids. By New Years Eve, you can almost see that healthier you trotting alongside your pups or kids.

As New Years Day arrives amid merriment, more holiday excess and your community of friends, you celebrate the arrival of this new YOU. The countdown begins, the ball drops and the new YOU is only seconds away. Out tomorrow is here and we will be so much better in 2009!

2009 starts and for a few weeks you move forward with a determination never before seen. Perhaps you wake up early, go for the run, head to the gym, refuse the muffins, etc. Nothing can stop you on your journey to the new YOU.

But then it happens, slowly but surely, you snooze the alarm, you have a scone, you make the sofa your permanent domain... Your resolve and your resolutions go down the tube.

BUT this does not have to be you! Follow these 10 tips to stay on track to lasting change!

1. Find Community Support.
When you have a community that supports you you are much more likely to succeed. Make an appointment to work out with someone- RSVP on Meetup.com to Stroller Strides. I won't hold you to it, but that commitment will increase the likelihood of attending and reaching your goals!

2. Don't give up.
Try and try again. Sometimes you will fail, but there is always next time. Ask others for support (see #1) and believe that next time will be your biggest success!

3. Find out what your true values are and live by those.
Discover what your true values are. Say your goal is to stop spending money frivolously. That is easier said than done- since everyone can think of reasons why they NEED that new little black dress. But, if you want to save money to provide for your family and save for their education, than stopping spending frivolously is much easier. All you need to envision is your commitment to your children instead of the item you want to purchase. Live by your values of loving your family and your wallet will remain much easier in your purse. So spend a few minutes as 2009 starts really discovering what your values are.

4. Find motivation in your current success.
One mother in Stroller Strides has had to purchase new clothing and we are only 3 weeks into the program. I say that is a pretty good indicator of success and she is more motivated than ever!

5. Write it down.
Put your goal everywhere. If you are focusing on eating healthier, than write it on a paper and put it on the fridge. Post it wherever you can see it daily. Remember, it is only a wish until you write it down. Once you write it down, it becomes a goal. Once it is visible to the world, than others can support you (and hold you accountable) in reaching it.

6. Surround yourself with others striving for the same goal.
If you are trying to refrain from something, why would you surround yourself with others that are doing that exact thing? Instead, surround yourself with positive people that are also striving for the same success.

7. Start with moderation
While it is great to dive headfirst into things, a program that starts moderately will have more success. Instead of diving in headfirst and smacking your head on the bottom, why don't you wade in and get used to the water. Don't grab the heaviest weight on the first day. Don't run 10 miles on your first run. Don't live on salad only. A crash course will only lead you to a crash and burn!

8. Set an inspiring Big Hairy Audacious Goal and make mini goals that lead to it.
Set one huge goal that really inspires you, but that is so big you almost don't want to say it aloud. Then create smaller goals that are more realistic but that will get you to this BHAG. Strive daily to reach your smaller goals and you may be happily surprised when you arrive at your BHAG. Then you can sit back and think- that wasn't really all that hard!

9. Journal.
Writing down your thoughts will keep you in touch with the values that matter. You will also be able to see the little successes along the way, the wins that are so easily forgotten in the face of struggle. Writing in a journal also allows you the quiet personal time needed to renew yourself in the face of change.

10. Teach and support others.
Encouraging others gives you the courage to triumph.

Remember that self discipline is the precursor to success.

I look forward to supporting everyone in their journey and Happy New Years!

Get rid of your but in 2009

2008-12-11T16:32:00.000-08:00

Haha, you think you know what I mean. After all I teach fitness classes. But that is not the but I was referring to. I mean the but that is keeping you from honoring your commitment to your health. I have heard (and given) lots of buts in my life time. It usually goes like this...

I would work out today BUT...
I have too much to do
My kids won't stay in the stroller
I need to clean the house
I am tired
I woke up too late

These excuses and reasons may range from great to ones you just made up to get out of exercise. Now consider this, you made ALL of them up to get out of exercise. There will always be reasons to justify why you don't work out. It is called LIFE.

To reach your goals you have to stay committed in the face of all your buts. And remember- self discipline is the precursor to success!

Waiting until January 1st to start your healthy habits?

2008-12-03T08:18:00.000-08:00

Stroller Strides is offering great deals for 2008 to get you on your way. Join with a friend and split the registration fee (a savings of $37.50), your first month free and 20% off package prices.

Your best chance for reaching your goals is to combine exercise (Stroller Strides!) and a change in diet. Notice I did not say to diet! You do not have to starve yourself to see results and you can start with small changes...
1. Cut back on processed sugar- if you are craving that sweet taste then eat a clementine!
2. Add one serving of fruit AND one serving of vegetable. Try to make your choices organic- see the previous post!
3. Do not eat chips or junk food. You know when you are giving in and eating "bad" foods. Stay strong and keep your goals in mind. Ask yourself why you want to eat that food. Is it emotional eating or do you really feel hungry. If you really feel hungry make another food choice. Ask yourself if the food choice is really worth it... If you decide YES! Then really enjoy it, sit down and savor your choice and then move on.

If the holidays have caused you to slack off on exercise and nutrition, then turn yourself around. Use the holidays as a way to be more strategic. If you know you are having a family meal on Saturday, plan healthy meals throughout the week! The holidays do not have to be a time of excess everyday, but definitely enjoy the time (and meals) that you have with your family!

Enjoy the holidays everyone and make it a healthy and fun one!

Is organic really worth it?

2008-12-01T22:59:00.000-08:00

Some organic foods may provide a nutrition boost. A research review of 41 studies conducted by the University of California at Davis found that, on average, organic produce contains as much as 27 percent more vitamin C, 21 percent more iron, and 29 percent more magnesium compared with traditionally grown foods. The kinds of packaged organic foods that now fuel the category's growth, such as cookies, baked goods, and boxed meals, also benefit from a similar perception of healthfulness.

Consuming fewer pesticides is better for you & your baby. Eating the 12 most contaminated fruits and vegetables each day, on average, exposes you to 20 pesticides each day - if you eat the 12 least contaminated (organic) it translates to 2 pesticides per day - according to the Environmental Working Group. By choosing organic food whenever possible, you are supporting sustainable agricultural methods that result in less pollution, nutrient rich soil, increase biodiversity, and animal habitat protection.

You're at the market trying to decide which apples to buy, if those apples were required to label the residues of all the pesticides, herbicides, hormones, antibiotics, and fertilizers in there, which would you choose for you, your baby, and your family?

Highest in Pesticides: These 12 popular fresh fruits and vegetables are consistently the most contaminated with pesticides - buy these organic whenever possible.
Apples
Bell Peppers
Celery
Cherries
Grapes (imported)
Nectarines
Peaches
Pears
Potatoes
Red Raspberries
Spinach
Strawberries

Lowest in Pesticides: These 12 popular fresh fruits and vegetables consistently have the lowest levels of pesticides.
Asparagus
Avocados
Bananas
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Corn (sweet)
Kiwi
Mangos
Onions
Papaya
Pineapples
Peas (sweet)

Americans are well aware of the health benefits of eating fruit and vegetables, but most people need to double the amount they currently consume in order to meet the latest dietary guidelines for Americans. All forms of fruits and veggies count - fresh, frozen, 100% juice, canned & dried.

Fish, Pregnancy, & DHA

2008-11-18T21:52:00.001-08:00

Just a few tips on eating fish during pregnancy as well as getting your DHA!

Many pregnant and nursing women become fearful of fish & shellfish because some types contain high levels of mercury. Mercury is a metal that can harm the brain of your unborn baby - even before it is conceived. Fish however is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. DHA is a fatty acid important to your baby's developing brain. Fish is one of the best sources of DHA. So don't cut fish out all together. Eat low mercury fish 2-3 times per week up to 12 oz total for the week. You may also want to consider taking an omega-3 fatty acid supplement that has been third party tested not to contain mercury (Nordic Naturals is a trusted brand). So how can you reap the benefits of eating fish without the dangers of mercury? Follow these tips.

Don't Eat:
- Swordfish
- Tilefish
- King mackerel
- Shark
- Raw or uncooked fish or shellfish (e.g. clams, oysters, scallops).
- Refrigerated uncooked smoked fish (labeled Nova-style, lox, kippered or jerky)

Eat Up to 1 Serving (6 ounces) per Week:
- Tuna Steaks
- Canned albacore or chunk white tuna
- Halibut
- Snapper

Eat Up to 2 Servings (12 ounces) Per Week:
- Shrimp, crab, clams, oysters, scallops
- Canned Light Tuna
- Salmon
- Mahi Mahi
- Pollock
- Catfish
- Cod

Check before Eating Fish caught in Local Waters
- State health departments have guidelines on fish from local waters. Or get local fish advisories at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Web Site.
- If you're unsure about the safety of a fish from local waters, only eat 6 ounces per week and don't eat any other fish that week.

Eat a variety of small, young non-fatty fish.
- Ask your fishmonger to recommend lean, small fish that are caught young.

Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration; Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition
Fitness Tip: Chart your fitness progress as a family and set goals. Post a chart in a common area, and give each other stickers for reaching goals.

Fit moms here is a great new local company!

2008-11-13T11:26:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to let you all know about a great new family business that recently opened in Louisville.

Solepepper Sports is owned by local U.S. Olympians Alan and Shayne Culpepper (and their three young sons:). It is a great place to get shoes, apparel, and accessories for your family's healthy, outdoor lifestyle. They have a great selection for adults and several great lines of kids shoes (over size 13). They offer a video gait analysis to ensure you get the right shoe for your foot type, structure, and history. They will be offering free injury assessments with Alta Physical Therapies starting the first and third Thursdays of every month, and they are doing Group Runs every Saturday a.m. at 8:00--all ability levels, with giveaways to participants. Check our their website www.solepepper. com for details...

This Saturday, Nov. 15th is their Grand Opening celebration- -there will be giveaways, athlete appearances, etc. Should be a fun, family event!!

They are located on the NW corner of McCaslin and Cherry--right next to Qdoba!

Solepepper Sports
459 S. McCaslin Blvd, Suite 2
Louisville
www.solepepper. com
303-926-SOLE

Be the Change

2008-11-12T22:12:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to share this tidbit from Farel, our head instructor at Stroller Strides...

"BE THE CHANGE" -Ghandi
By Farel Hruska, Stroller Strides National Fitness Director

As moms, we often look at our busy schedules and say things like; "If only I had more hours in the day" or "I wish I could fit more into my day". The reality is that we all have the same 24 hours to work with and to get done all the things we need to do...but what happens to those "things" that need to be done for ourselves? Those moments to take care of ourselves so that we then can care for our families? These are the items on the To Do Listthat get crossed off because there isn't enough time. This demotion of ourselves on the list of priorities can lead to two outcomes: 1) we neglect our health and either become sick and/or frustrated. 2) We lead by the example that "mom isn't that important". Would we ever want our children to start viewing themselves that way? Now, this isn't a time for guilt, it's a time for action! In order for change to happen in the lives of our children and families, we must BE THE CHANGE! We all know the influence MOM has on the family; for the most part, we make the decisions about the clothes our children wear, the food that is bought and the activities we all participate in. If our outlook towards fitting in fitness changed, imagine how the lives of our families would look? BE THE CHANGE: Make YOUR health and fitness a priority and watch how your family's wellbeing will follow suit!"

____________

So make the commitment to yourself and do it now! Make your health an important part of your life, just as important as gong to the grocery store or folding the laundry! It does not have to be a group fitness class, you can just take 10 minutes and go for a walk.

What is Stroller Strides?

2008-11-12T22:07:00.000-08:00

Stroller Strides is a total fitness program for new moms that they can do with their stroller aged children. It includes Power Walking and intervals of body toning using exercise tubing and the stroller. Taught by specially trained instructors, it's a great workout for any level of exerciser. Each class consists of a warm up, a power walk and "stations" where we do a variety of body toning exercises. We use exercise tubing (which we provide you with), the stroller and the environment to create our gym.

Values:
•We will help moms achieve their ultimate potential, both physically and emotionally.
•We will offer support and education for moms.
•We will inspire moms to reach optimal health and well being.
•We will inspire children to emulate their moms and make fitness a part of their lives.

Your first class is always free so come try it out.

Our first longmont class will be held at the Twin Peaks Mall on November 24th at 9am.

For more info on classes and pricing, please visit our website-

strollerstrides.net/longmont

http://www.meetup.com/strollerstrideslongmont/