Old Habits Die Hard

I've managed to keep up with tracking my calories and activity on the calorie count app this week.  No doubt, there are tough days where I want to slink back into old habits and eat lots of sugar and things that taste good but aren't so good for me.  Then I remind myself of how much better I feel!  I think it's also nice to have a good support system to help you reach your goals.  I have started following some people on Instagram who are looking to eat healthy and become healthier.

Last night we went to MABES PIZZA for supper, one of my favorites! I didn't go overboard but the temptation was sure there. Then it was off to the Whippy Dip for dessert. Did I get ice cream---YES!  Did I over do it? NOPE:)

This morning I went on my long run for the week, 10 miles.  I always look forward to those Saturday long runs.  It's quiet and peaceful, gives me time to focus on the things in life that really matter.  I love the Map My Run app and use it anytime I am walking or running outside.  Feel free to follow me at CathyS183.

I am still on the lookout for a half marathon to do yet this year, probably in August or September.  Keep reaching those goals!


Happy Trails!

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

One of the many great things about this time of year is the start of all the fresh produce available.  One of them being rhubarb.  Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is one of Randy's favorites, and on the agenda for today.  After a morning of buzzing around Amish Blvd and picking up some great deals (half off veggie plants for the garden, fresh wheat bread and a gallon of coconut oil at a stellar price) we returned home to get some things crossed off that to do list.

I'll admit, I am not a great pie maker. That's one thing I wish I would have spent more time learning from my grandma's when I was young.  I cheated this time and used a store bought crust.  My other work around was that this recipe called for fresh strawberries, which I forgot to get at the store this week and my go-to-store Huber's didn't have any either!  So, I used frozen.  I think it turned out just as good, just a bit runny.  Thanks to Pinterest I keep finding some yummy recipes!  Here's the link.  Enjoy!

http://www.pinterest.com/pin/237283474091729268/

Softball Debut

Eryn had her first softball game ever this week. Yes...first ever. Just this year she decided to make a go of it and try softball.  We've never been the parents that make their child participate in sports they don't want to so it was all her decision. We had a good time watching her, and Grandpa and grandma were there to cheer her on as well.  Looking forward to the month ahead with lots of games!

7.5

We celebrated Nolan's half birthday today with his choice for supper. ...tacos!  We finished the day with cake and his favorite candy bar...A milky way! This boy loves his chocolate!

Memorial Day weekend 2014 in pictures

Summer Slim Down/Tone Up

As warm weather approaches so does swimsuit season.  Not that I wear one very often, but it is a good time to start some new habits. With warmer weather, longer days, and fresh fruits and veggies all around, its a great time to get motivated!  Here are some tips I've been using/implementing into my schedule the past couple of weeks. Keep in mind that different things work for different people and I am definitely not an expert in this area, just thought I would share my journey.  I've been learning alot from other people via Instagram.  It's forward progress, learning something new each and every day.

It may be "easier" to put your money down on some weight loss pills, or other "fad" diets that seem to be in the headlines these days.  Those of you who know me well know that I am not a fan of those at all (and could go on and on about them:)) but have learned through my own trials to stick to the basics of eating right and working out.  I know, boring right?!  It's hard work, but I am up for the challenge, are you??

So... here's what I've been doing, and I've seen some favorable results.  I'm not looking to lose weight, just want to be stronger and healthier! 

1. Calorie counting: I use a calorie count app on my phone to log water consumed, as well as a food and exercise log.  Keeps me honest and not guessing as to what I've been eating and the activity levels I am at each day.

2. We invested in a scale that keeps track of more than just your weight. Remember it's not a number but how your clothes fit.  It also tracks body water weight %, body fat % and BMI.  All good things to keep in check to be healthier and stronger!

3. IT'S NOT A DIET!  I still have cake, pop, and all the foods I love.  I just keep it in check by counting the calories.  The goal is always to expend more calories than you consume.  Easy, right?  I also allow myself a "free" day each week where I don't use calorie count AT ALL.  After a day I'm ready to get back at it. It's amazing how eating right makes you feel SO.MUCH.BETTER!

4. Activity/Exercise: I make time to workout at least once a day.  Anything from the elliptical, to running, HIIT workouts (Benderfitness.com is a great on) or make up your own.  Push mowing the lawn counts too!!

5. No BODY is perfect! Sometimes the biggest battle is in your mind....with yourself!  Don't compare yourself to others, you are unique and that is OK!  You have to do what makes you feel comfortable in your own skin.  Own it!

OBS

A few weeks ago I participated in an online bible study entitled "Living So That" through Proverbs 31 Ministries.  It was free of charge, unless you purchsed the book "Living So That" by Wendy Blight.  I bought my book at Amazon.com which was a little less then they were charging on the proverbs31.org website.

The course was 5 weeks long, set at our own pace each week.  It was a great way to learn more about yourself, set aside time in your day to focus on the Word, and apply it to your life. They have more studies going on all the time so take a peek and see if one sparks your interest!

Playing Catch (Up)

It's been another busy week at our house....and it's the weekend again! YEAH!  And a 3 day one at that.  The weather has turned more summerlike, we are sleeping with the windows open and playing until dusk. 

The rhubarb is ready so I made some strawberry rhubarb cobbler this past weekend!  YUM!  A simple recipe with oatmeal, brown sugar, butter and of course your fruits!  I'm hoping to get my hands on some more rhubarb to put in the freezer!

Last weekend we did some projects around the house and ran kids to swimming lessons and ball practice. On Sunday Eryn and I ventured to do some shopping with my sister and niece.  We had a great time and found some good deals! 

This week we've kept busy with little league committee duties and gearing up for the little boys/girls practices that start tomorrow.  We've got one SUPER excited Nolan that is ready to play some ball!  He's been playing catch outside every night and will grab whomever he can to play with him!  With the warm weather his allergies have also spiked, but we are trying to keep ahead of it with some peppermint and lavender essential oils which have worked remarkably well!  It's a healthier alternative to some of his other medication options and it doesn't make him as sleepy either. 

 

I'm off to get this weekend started with a run.  We don't have too much planned but I am hoping to spend  most of it outside soaking up the sun and fresh air.  Hoping you also have a wonderful holiday weekend....and pay tribute to the real meaning of the weekend!  Stay tuned for posts about the online bible  study I finished up recently and my summer slimdown/tone up tips.  I'm on week 2 and feeling great!  Cheers!

Mother's Day weekend!

It's already Sunday night and I am asking myself where the weekend went to??!!  Getting geared up for another week!  16 days and counting for the kids to be out of school for the summer!

This weekend we celebrated Mother's Day with both of our mom's. On Saturday we went to my parent's house and had lunch.   Then us girls were off to get some flowers and veggie plants for the garden.  We found a "new" Mennonite place and I love it!  Great variety and good prices. We had the car overflowing with pretty flowers!

We got back home just in time to get ready to have supper with Randy's family.  We had a great time visiting with family!

Today we were up bright and early getting our flowers planted around the house.  All of the plants we landscaped last summer seem to be popping right up.  It's so nice that everything is looking so green and lush.

Randy cooked a nice breakfast for all of us then we headed to the garden and got busy planting.  In no time at all we had things in order and plants in the ground.  Just in time for the rain to begin!!!

Later in the afternoon we headed to Decorah for Derek's second swimming lesson. This one was a bit tougher for him (getting his head under water) and he needed a little bit of persuasion (AKA the Whippy Dip) to dunk his head.  We ran some errands, got more seedlings for the garden and waited in line at the Whippy Dip for ice cream.  It was sure worth it!  I think I found a new love for their cookie dough tornado!!

Hope all you mom's out there enjoyed your special day.  I know I did!  I'm so thankful I was chosen to be a mom to 3 wonderful kids.  It's the best gift ever!  Have a great week!

Derek ' s half birthday!

Today we celebrate 3 1/2. I know I say this a lot......but really where does the time go?
All Derek wanted was a blue supercar:) He chose a supper of hamburgers and French fries complete with a half birthday cake!

10k stats

The cool thing about running a BIG race in the city I'd all the neat gadgets. Click on the link below for my stats. I also got an email today with see pictures if me crossing the finish line...for a fee of course!

http://www.mtecresults.com/runner/show? rid=10294&race=2208