A lifetime of awareness

This week on facebook you have either noticed and/or changed your picture to a cartoon figure(s) that you grew up watching and loved.

This is to spread awareness for child abuse. At first I thought people wouldn't think of this as an awareness but as a way to jump on any band wagon.

Last night I was looking at all the cartoons from before my time to now. The only thing I was thinking? Innocence.

When children are abused that is what's taken. Every time a child is beaten, belittled, or even scarred in any way we take away their youth and add fear.

This makes me angry, because giving life to a human being is a privilege. These are minds we mold into adults. Every child has the right to to be brought up by mature adults who embrace their innocence and helps them grow into the people we want them to become.

By that I don't mean what we want, but the hopes and dreams they clutch to as children.

Remember to embrace innocence and not just until December 6th, but always!

Toys R Us nailed it when they coined the phrase "I never want to grow up"

Conversations that make you go Hmmm...

Why do I love being a parent?

Because of the awesome conversations and/or phrases I get to hear come out of my Chick's mouths.

Last night while in the car, Chick 2 asked if it hurt when I had her.

I told her, "Oh yeah"

She then asks, "Does it hurt like when you have to poop but can't?"

I tell her, "It hurts a lot more than that"

Rooster then explains, "It's like trying to poop out a watermelon"

Baby Chick is in the stage of learning and repeating new words on a daily basis. Of course some words don't sound quite like the real thing.

While playing with her one day she says, "My horse is pissing"

I think I almost pissed myself when I heard this.

Then I realized what that truly meant...

"My horse is missing"

Oh and yes missing is still pissing in her vocabulary.

Aloha Friday #6

It is Aloha Friday once again! This means today is a day for taking it easy, therefore I will just ask one simple question. Click the picture to learn more.

Today's question:

Do you think you could survive without technology for a week?

Honestly, I would love to say oh yes just give me a book to read or supplies to make jewelry and I am set. However, I know I would go crazy without my phone, or computer. Just the thought makes me break out in a cold sweat! I know there are people out there a lot stronger than I am and to that I have mad R-E-S-P-E-C-T!

Monkey hear, Monkey say

We have officially entered the stage where what we say can and will be used against us.

That's right... baby chick has finally entered the repeat everything stage.

I am the winner in this area, because this momma chick; who is known for having a potty mouth; has taught her little chick a few not so cute phrases.

"Oh crap"
"Darn it"
"That sucks"

At least they are more PG-13 right? No rated R words thank goodness.

Rooster is the winner for more positive phrases learned:

"Awesome"
"Sweet"

Is it wrong that I still giggle when she says, "oh crap" just so she says it again?

Come on it's funny right?

The dreaded topic...

That topic would be death.

It is unfortunately going to happen.

The only thing keeping us from dying is the fountain of youth and finding it is a must for that to work.

To prepare for death *shudder* we have Wills in order to get our finances and burial requests in order.

Now what happens to our networking sites like Facebook? Do they get deleted? Do they stay in order for people to post well wishes?

There is now a site that takes care of this, Ortib.com. This site allows you to name an heir to your Facebook page.

Go to http://app.otrib.com/ to learn how to get your Facebook taken care of.

At first I thought it was a little morbid. I mean name an heir to my Facebook?

I mean I won't be able to see it once I'm gone.

However, when reading what the site has I thought it would be nice to know that people would have a page to do the following:

• A Life Status Indicator on your Facebook profile

• Real-time death notification to all connections

• Dedicated tribute page with memorial service, donation information and guestbook

It is hard to think about our untimely death, but it's always better to be ready for the unknown!

*This review was done as a campaign for BzzAgent.*

When the kid you becomes the adult you...

Scenario:

Child Version:

You go out to eat. You get your kids menu and crayons. You color and try and get into the adult talk. It's boring, so you get back to coloring. You get your food first. You are so hungry you shovel your food in your mouth. In five minutes you're done. You look up and see the adults have eaten only a bite of their food. They are spending more time talking than eating. You tell your parents, "I'm done. I want to go home. Can we go now? I'm done and bored. Please, can we go now?" Parents tell you to stop whining and that we will go when we are ready to go.

Adult Version:

You go out to eat. You make sure your kids have a menu and crayons to keep them busy, because you forgot to bring toys. They color, they are content and quiet, and you can finally engage yourself in adult talk. You enjoy the light-hearted conversation. You see your child get restless and are thankful the waiter brings out your child's food. Your food comes and resume talk as well. After five minutes of eating your child starts tugging your arm. They keep complaining they are bored and want to leave over and over. You now wish your babysitter had come through.

I have been the main star of both versions. When I was younger I always wondered why adults could just sit and talk for hours and not be bored. I thought, "Don't you just eat and leave restaurants?"

As an adult I do everything to keep the chicks entertained, so I can talk that little bit more. Adult interaction comes at a minimum when you become a parent. Of course my kids have become that ever dreaded child version and I have somehow become the adult version that wishes the chicks would be those who were okay with being seen and not heard at restaurants.

Aloha Friday!

It is Aloha Friday once again! This means today is a day for taking it easy, therefore I will just ask one simple question. Click the picture to learn more.

Today's Question:

What book are you reading right now?

I have Friday fluff brain and with only minutes till I have to be out the door I chose and easy one.

My book is Little Women By Louisa May Alcott. Chick 2 is reading it and I figured why not read it at the same time?

Click the picture above to learn more about Aloha Friday.

Fears of a Mother

All parents have fears, but I believe a mother has more.

Yes, I know fathers have fears, but we are women and we have hormones aka estrogen.

I fear many things with my chicks.

Here is my list:

Mean girls

Lack of self-esteem

Eating disorder

Pregnancy

Etc....

I would love love love to stick my chicks in a bubble to protect them from the real world.

Of course that is not realistic.

So for us momma chicks all we can do is teach and hope they learn from our lessons.

30 Blog Day Journal: Day 2

Ok I am a little behind and am on day 2.

Click the picture above and find out more!

Day 2's topic is...

Favorite Movie

Oh there are so many. I said this about my favorite song and when you ask for a favorite I will probably say the same thing.

Now for movie. I will name one that is more of a favorite for the inside jokes.... Ok there are 2 and the same person is involved.

That person would be my BFF Chick. (name to come soon)

The 2 movies are:

Speed starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock

The Sweet Thing starring Cameron Diaz, Christina Applegate, and Selma Blair

Wordless Wednesday: My Chick is growing too fast!

This Chick 2 on her first day of 5th grade! 5th GRADE!!!! Next year she will be a middle schooler! This momma chick is really going to have to try and contain herself this year.

Since I am needing a push into coming up with ideas I thought what better way then to take part in this 30 Day Blog Journal that is hosted by Legally Brunette.

I know most of you taking part in this is at day 27, or well close to the end. I figured it's better late than never right?

For those almost done lets take a trip back to day one. The topic for this first day is...

Your Favorite Song:

This is a hard one because there are many songs that are my favorite. They are all favorites for different stages in my life. Some remind me of good days and others remind me of bad days. For this installment I will choose the song that is dedicated to my wedding day. This song is We Can Last Forever by Chicago.

Baby Chicks new friend

See this picture?

Isn't that just the cutest potty you have ever seen?

It's a frog and a potty rolled into one! It would make any toddler want to potty in it right? Right?

Well not my baby chick.

Went to Target (my home away from home) and got baby Chick this potty.

I showed it to her and she LOVES it!

Well she loves it SO much that she will not go potty in it.

The first day we had it she tried to bring it in the bathtub with her. I guess she needed another friend to play with in there.

That night she picked it up and put it in bed with her. Yep in bed.

Now it is just sitting in our living room as another toy.

Lesson learned: Do not get a potty that looks fun. Always go boring!

Sundays are meant to kick back...

and relax!

This momma chick is really trying to get back into the swing of blogging more consistently. What better way than to take part in Relax and Surf Sundays. This is such an easy way to blog hop and meet new Chicks, and well maybe some Roosters who also take part in the blogging world. I am always up for browsing new blogs. How easier can it get than relaxing on a Sunday and surfing the blogging world? Fun right?!

More time to blog?

Hopefully, because....

I am once again going to boast the iPhone on my blog!

Either you are a iPhone fan and thinking "Yay!"

Or

You aren't and thinking "Get over yourself it is just a phone!"

Well if you aren't maybe this will help you become an iPhone fan...

At this moment I am writing a blog post from work ON MY PHONE!!!

I am just too busy to go on the computer at home. Once I get home from work my chicks want this momma chick's undivided attention.

Now I am hoping that this is the beginning to more frequent posts. Thank you iPhone for making this possible!

Wordless Wednesday

Soccer is back in this chicken coop and this is baby chicks shirt for the season. We are soccer fanatics!

Say it isn't so!!

SAY IT ISN'T SO!!!

My baby chick went to her first dentist appointment the other day. The mean man told Rooster and baby chick that the binky has to go.

This dentist must not care about a momma chick's sanity and mine is important to not only me but the whole chicken coop.

Yes yes her poor mouth is growing wrong because of it and blah blah blah, but my poor baby loves her binky. It is her blankies best friend.

Ok ok I knew this would have to happen. Was hoping my denial could last longer, but the time has come.

This means my baby chick is going through binky detox. We have put her on the patch... I mean she can only have it at bedtimes.

This is day one and we will see how it goes.

Until next time...

Life of a Working Mom

This Momma Chick is now a part of the work force. I finally found a place that would give this former substitute teacher a chance at something other than teaching. Funny enough it is a pretty widely know learning material company. I have wanted to work here for a while, and this is my foot in the door.

It has been 3 weeks since I have begun and trying to maintain this blog AND make time for the chicks is hard.

Honestly with working at a computer all day makes me kind of repulsed to look at another one when I get home.

Rooster is great at being Mr. Momma Chick. I am one lucky chick!

Aloha Friday #4

It is Aloha Friday once again! This means today is a day for taking it easy, therefore I will just ask one simple question. Click the picture to learn more.

Today's Question:

Most anticipated movies usually come out in the Summer. Are their any movies you are looking forward/or have already seen this summer in the theaters?

My Answer:
For me it was Toy Story 3. Haven't seen it yet, but have heard nothing but great things about it.

Now I did see Eclipse. Twice. Two days in a row. Now if you know me I wasn't a big fan of the books and see the movies to see how they play out. Well the third one? AWESOME! Ironically I hated the 3rd book, but love move. Weird!

Wordless Wednesday: Nature in the City

You would never guess but on all sides of this there are very busy streets and one of southern California's busiest freeways. Who would think that in a busy city you could go back to nature and amazingly not hear the sounds of traffic.

Starting Over

A few months ago I started this most wonderful running interval program called the C25K.

C25K means "couch to 5k". It boasts it can get any couch potato to running a 5k in 9 weeks. I was thisclose to being that couch potato turned runner.

I was at the gym 3 days a week running on the treadmill. I got to running 25 minutes straight. Yep. Me. Running for 25 minutes.

A few weeks later I participated in Weight Watchers walk-it challenge (you got a cool charm if you did and who doesn't like positive rewards for hard work?).

I was the over zealous participant who thought since I was a "runner" I could run this thing no problem.

Man was I one over zealous Chick. I ran. Then walked. Then ran again. Then decided to stick with walking.

Didn't I say this C25K program worked?

I am not wrong. It does work! My problem? I was a treadmill runner. Not a pavement/outdoorsy runner.

Treadmills=set pace you work with. Forgiving support while you run.

Pavement= setting your own pace, not so forgiving support while you run.

My cure? Starting the program over. I hate starting things over. This is why I only read books once. That is why I usually give up on projects and then just start new ones.

That was the old me and I want to become the new me. This new me means I need to stop giving up.

I am determined to become a C25K graduate. I am determined to run a 5K sometime in 2010. I will get there!

If you are interested in the C25K program click the link above to learn more. I know many who are doing it and can't believe that their once sedentary selves are active and running!

Cheat Sheet Mondays: Surviving the Parties!

Mondays I will post my cheats or healthy alternatives to those foods I can't live without. I will also add those foods I found that are great tasting but low in calories and fat. Some Monday's I may add healthy recipes.

This Sunday is the 4th of July, which means parties, parties, parties.

For those who are living the healthy life, these parties can be daunting. Seeing the tables and tables of yummy food always makes my mouth water with possibilities. At least that was the old me.

The new me looks at these tables as an obstacle course. To run past, to take a little dip, or to pile high.

*This information is what I have learned with Weight Watchers. Click the link above to learn more about the program.*

Foods I run past: Anything fried, desserts (ok not all desserts... I let myself have 1), or anything I know runs high in calories and fat (heavy in sauce or high fat ingredients).

Foods I let myself take a little dip in: Pasta salads (they are my favorite), dips and chips, meats.

* Little dips mean little servings*

Foods I pile high: Veggies and fruit galore. These are the foods that are going to fill you up. Fruits do have points with Weight Watchers, but fruit is healthy so I don't care if I spend them on fruit. Fruit is a healthy option.

*Word of advice: eat your fruits and veggies first. You will be surprised how full you will feel.*

This is my survival guide that I try to use at parties. Sometime my self control hitches a ride elsewhere when I see food. Sometimes I just take small servings of everything so I can have all the different tastes.

My utlra-tip? Bring something you made that you know you can eat. That way you know there is something "safe" to eat.

Kellogg's Cereal Recall!

A friend on facebook had a link to a article talking about Kellogg's recalling their certain cereals. I usually don't pay attention to recalls since I rarely buy the products being recalled.

Recently we bought some Kellogg's cereal for the chicks, because we are nice parents and appease their every breakfast food need. Plus my itty bitty chick LOVES Fruit Loops. Fruit Loops among other cereals are on the list. When I saw the side effect was vomiting and nausea I jumped up fast and was on a mission to make sure that tainted cereal was out of our house. Thank goodness ours was fine. Plus no nausea and vomiting in these parts.

Here is the recall information: (the article is here)

Kellogg's issues a massive ceral recall affecting 28 million of boxes of cereal. Initial reports indicate some people have experienced nauseau and vomiting. Kellogg's has issued the following statement on their website. Kellogg's is recalling the following cereal products packaged in white foil bags due to an off-flavor and smell coming from the bag.

Only products with the letters "KN" following the Better If Used Before Date are included in the recall.

Kellogg's Apple Jacks
UPC 3800039136
17 ounce package with Better if Used Before Dates between APR 10 2011 and JUN 22 2011

UPC 3800039132 3
8.7 ounce packages with Better if Used Before Dates between JUN 03 2011 and JUN 22 2011

Kellogg's Corn Pops
UPC 3800039109
12.5 ounce packages with Better if Used Before Dates between MAR 26 2011 and JUN 22 2011

UPC 3800039111
17.2 ounce packages with Better if Used Before Dates between MAR 26 2011 and JUN 22 2011

UPC 3800039116
9.2 ounce packages with Better if Used Before Dates between APR 05 2011 and JUN 22 2011

Kellogg's Froot Loops
UPC 3800039118
12.2 ounce packages with Better if Used Before Dates between MAR 26 2011 and JUN 22 2011

UPC 3800039120
17 ounce packages with Better if Used Before Dates between MAR 26 2011 and JUN 22 2011

UPC 3800039125
8.7 ounce packages with Better if Used Before Dates between MAR 26 2011 and JUN 22 2011

Kellogg'sHoney Smacks
UPC 3800039103
15.3 ounce packages with Better if Used Before Dates between MAR 26 2011 and JUN 22 2011

Again, only products with the letters "KN" following the Better If Used Before Date are included in the recall.http://consumeralert.kelloggs.com/consumeralert.aspx?id=3870

WHAT TO DO
If you have questions or you would like a replacement coupon, you may contact the Kellogg Consumer Response Center at 888-801-4163.
You should not eat the recalled products because they do not Kellogg's quality standards.

Small Talk 6: My Spoiled Chicks

Want to join in Small Talk Six? Click the picture for the details!

Calling my chicks spoiled would be an understatement! They have the best chicken coop on the block. Well not really but they are pretty darn spoiled in all areas!

1. Whenever I am out shopping for me usually I come home bearing gifts for them instead.

2. I think we own every dollar bin toy at Target known to man.

3. They say, "JUMP' I reply with "HOW HIGH"

4. Trips to bookstores= a book per person each trip.

5. Mommy/daughter nights with not so good for you treats.

6. My favorite way to indulge are all the hugs and kisses I give every chance I get. You may see them squirm, or wipe the slobber off their face, but this Momma Chick knows they're loved!

Aloha Friday #3

It is Aloha Friday once again! This means today is a day for taking it easy, therefore I will just ask one simple question. Click the picture to learn more.

Today's Question:

When seasons change, what do you do with the clothing your not using?

My answer:

I live in Southern California, so really we don't have seasons. In the middle of winter you may have an above normal warm day and wear a tank top. In the middle of summer I may need jeans and a sweater. I really do love Cali weather, but I would love to see the leaves change, or the grass that is trying so hard to push through the snow.

Ants on Purpose?

Yes we have ants ON PURPOSE!

No we didn't leave some sugar on the ground just hoping they would choose our house.

Chick 2, my little scientist in the making, is a proud owner of her own ant farm.


The Friday after school was out a little package came in the mail.

The package?

ANTS. Yep ants can be shipped.
That morning we put the farm together and now we have ants as pets.

Okay I may not love ants. I mean I squash the little boogers every chance I get, but ants are the easiest pets to have. Also, I will admit that they are cool to look at. They amaze me that they just know what to do in their new surroundings.

So, for now we are proud owners of ants!

This Momma Chick will do anything for my Chick to have fun with all things science (well almost).

Wordless Wednesday: Saying Good-bye

Yesterday my husbands parents had to say good-bye to the family dog. He was 18 and lived a long and happy life. The chicks had a lot of fun with him as well. He was the best pet, who let the chicks use him as their jungle gym. Even with the size he was he still thought he was a lap dog, which we all loved as well.

Chick 2 at 2 years old using Scout as her play dog.

Rest in Peace sweet Scout! We know you are no longer in pain and able to run after tennis balls, a past time you loved down here on Earth as well!

Foggy Brain Day

Chick 3 thinks she comes up with the best idea most nights.

This great idea is waking her sweet mother up in the middle of the night. This isn't a I am hungry and need a bottle, because I am an infant wake up. This is a I want to play and talk for 2 hours, because I am no longer a baby but a toddler kind of wake up.

It doesn't happen every day, but happens enough to give this Momma Chick fog brain and the lack of brain juice to come up with topics to write about. My creative side is gone (well I believe I have a creative side) and I am left staring and drooling into space, because all I can think about is the sleep I missed out on.

I would say this foggy brain is to coincide with the June gloom we have had, but today the sun is shining bright. Good thing tomorrow is Wordless Wednesday, because another night like the last 2 will definitely put me over the edge.

Cheat Sheet Mondays

Mondays I will post my cheats or healthy alternatives to those foods I can't live without. I will also add those foods I found that are great tasting but low in calories and fat. Some Monday's I may add healthy recipes.


I am usually a SAHM, but do substitute teach when requested. A couple months ago I signed up to work for 6 days. It was my first time working while on Weight Watchers.

I wanted to make sure I had enough fuel to get me through my day. If my breakfast is a good and healthy one, the rest of the day will follow suit. I researched all kinds of make ahead recipes so I could just heat up something when I got to work. (I am not an early eater)

I found this breakfast casserole through my Spark Recipe Application on my phone. It was quick and easy to make and so yummy to eat. I paired this with a banana.

Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients:

1 LB of frozen shredded potatoes, thawed
4 oz. of turkey sausage, cook and crumbled
1 C sliced mushrooms
1/2 C shredded cheddar cheese (I used reduced fat)
1 C Egg Beaters Egg Substitute
1/8 tsp Salt, or to taste
1/8 tsp black pepper, or to taste
1/8 C of red pepper, finely chopped
2 Tbsp onions, finely chopped

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a casserole dish with cooking spray. Spread potatoes around the bottom and press up the sides. Place in oven and cook for 10 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, mix egg substitute, salt, and pepper together.

3. Remove potatoes from oven and press potatoes down firmly with a spoon so they are spread out and cover the bottom and sides of the dish. Sprinkle the sausage, red pepper, cheese, mushroom, and onion in the bottom of the dish. Pour the egg mixture over it.

4. Return the dish to the oven and cook until potatoes are crisp and golden and the egg mixture is set, about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from oven and let sit about 5 minutes before serving.

Number of servings: 6

Nutritional facts:

Calories: 154
Total fat: 6g (less when using reduced fat cheese)
Dietary Fiber: 1

Small Talk 6:What my dad and I have in common

Want to join in Small Talk Six? Click the picture for the details!

1. Action Movies: He is the reason I love them so much.

2. Classic Rock

3. Classic Cars

4. Rival baseball games: Me DODGERS :) Him ANGELS :P

5. Camping

6. Belching in the woods when camping

The Big Bad Wolf who smokes

Smoking will rot your teeth, makes your voice sound horrible, ages you quickly, and oh yeah cause cancer.

This isn't news as much as known fact.

If your going to smoke your going to smoke and we all know the consequences.

I just think some need a lesson on smoking etiquette.

Why am I posting on this subject?

Let me tell you a story:

One warm and sunny day a group of kids are playing at a college stadium trying to beat the heat while a high school graduation is commencing.

These kids are laughing and running around. Innocence is rampant as they tag a shoulder and squeal with joyous laughter when they are caught as well.

The big bad wolf shows up, reaches into his pocket and pulls out a cigarette. He lights up and looks on.

Kids run by him running through the black smoke. Coughing ensues as another falls victim to the same black smoke.

Big bad wolf smokes on, inhaling as his lungs blacken a bit more.

Kids move over to fresh air. The laughter begins to envelope the area once more.

Big Bad Wolf finishes his cigarette and walks towards the entrance where his loved ones are sitting. He reaches the steps and flicks his butt to the ground with it almost hitting and innocent bystander.

Smoke fills the closed in area, because The Big Bad Wolf decides that putting it out on his shoe and going to the nearest trash receptacle is too much work.

A small chick's radar starts beeping. She is curious to what this burning piece of filter is. She reaches down and Momma Chick screams...

This little story is based on the events of today. There was no Big Bad Wolf, but there was this momma chick, Chick 3 and a rude smoker. This smoker flicked a burning cigarette butt to the ground as children were playing. Chick 3 saw and ran as fast as she could towards this new experience that I could have lived without.

If you smoke than smoke. It is a free world. What I do ask is please use common decency and follow a few rules of etiquette.

1. If children are around please go somewhere else to light up. If you can't find anywhere than please refrain at all costs. What is more important? Something that could kill you in the end, or a child's health?

2. If you find a safe place and a non smoker walks by please move cigarette behind you as to shield as much of the smoke as you can.

3. When you finish your cigarette please have the common decency to put the butt out using the sidewalk, but preferably your shoes as to not leave black marks visible. Please put said butt in a trash receptacle, or hold onto it until you find one. Your hand and clothes already smell. Isn't that better than adding to the litter that invades the streets?

I say please when I want or need something and I say thank you in return for something that has been done. I am using my manners and being respectful.

So to the smokers out there, Please do your best to practice smoking etiquette! Thank you!

Sincerely,

A momma chick who feels kids' safety is more important than a nasty habit.

Me? Nag? Nope!

A couple weeks ago when I subbed I met another sub. He was very old school in his ways as a teacher and a husband. He grew up and married around the "barefoot and pregnant and tied to the kitchen" era.

I am not in any ways a feminist, but to me that to was the extreme. I like the man to do the manly chores and I will do the female chores. Really it is because I do it better. That is as domestic as I get.

Well this teacher and I got to talking about our lives. We got on to the topic of sports. I told him my hubby watches all sports. I also told him that I don't care for them, but I don't pester if Rooster wants to watch them. He told me that I was a good wife.

What he doesn't realize that we live in the day and age of the DVR. It is the best invention ever! *has dreamy look on her face* I mean this genius invented something to make your shows revolve around your schedule!

This invention means we have a PAUSE button for TV!! This is why I don't nag. If I ask him something I know he can pause. Oh this doesn't mean he doesn't try to ignore my endless barrage of questions, but at least we can live harmoniously once again.

And in my own way I have conditioned him to wait till we are all asleep to watch his sports. This way he doesn't have to pretend not to hear me, and I can still go on living without the title of "nagging wife".

Wordless Wednesday: I don't wanna sleep!

Aren't most kids afraid of dark closets? Not mine! She will do anything to not go to bed. This means hiding in the closet.

Bloggy Blog Designz Giveaway!

Bloggy Blog Designz is having a Giveaway!!! They are giving away blog designs and all kinds of goodies. Plus ALL entrants will receive 20%off their purchase through the end of the month! Be sure to check out their website for more information, or to enter yourself. Take a look at their portfolio and packages to see what's right for you.

The first 5 entrants will receive a $15 giftcard. The giveaway will close on June 19th, so be sure to have your posts done and comments left by midnight! Good Luck to everyone!

CoverGirl Blast Review

I am a girl that loves make up so when I had the chance to take part in the CoverGirl Blast campaign I applied through BzzAgent.

I filled out the survey and chose my colors, Purple plume. It really isn't a color I tend to go for, but was the color that I kept leaning towards.

About the product:

"Getting sophisticated, colorful smoky eyes with little effort is what Smoky ShadowBlast is all about. Dramatic, sophisticated smoky eyes have never been this easy."

When I received my product I was skeptical, because it was a liquid type product, where I am used to using powder. I was up for the challenge. This shadow only takes 2 steps to apply and CoverGirl has a how-to video on their site that is easy to follow. See the video here below:



I followed these tips and got a new shadow look. I am not used to plums, but the product is easy to use. I did touch up once after applying to make sure my look was how I really wanted it. This was my ending result.


I would say that I really do like this product! I usually use 4 different shadows to get the look I want. Using this CoverGirl Blast Shadow I only needed 2 colors, so I did use little effort. I did not add any other colors of shadow or eyeliner to my look. I did use my own mascara.

Would I use it again?

Most definitely! Go to the CoverGirl site to learn more about their new Blast Collection!

Beating the Plateau

Plateaus, or "hitting brick walls" can be very frustrating when you are trying to loose weight! Especially when you think you are doing exactly what you are supposed to be doing.

About a month ago I hit a "brick wall" of my own. Each week I was loosing maybe .2 pounds a week. Yes it was a loss but I still thought I should be loosing more.

While weighing in at my Weight Watchers meeting the lady behind the counter told me, "Maybe you are hitting a plateau."

She gave me a book on plateaus and I decided to read through it.

The first thing I read that I know I should try was to look back and see if anything has changed with my eating and/or exercise.

I reflected and realized that during my weight loss weeks I was measuring everything I ate. I also consumed at least 5/6 servings of fruit and veggies a day.

During my "brick wall" weeks I was getting lackadaisical over measuring. I figured I could "eye" everything and it would be right.

I noticed that I was eating half the fruits and veggies I usually consumed.

The week after that meeting I made sure to do what I was successfully doing before and it worked.

I don't believe in the mantra that everyone hits plateaus and that you just have to deal with it. It is more of a time to reflect and make sure you aren't slacking in an area that was successful to your weight loss.

If you feel you have hit your "brick wall" make sure you reflect on what you are doing. Do you need to exercise more? Are your eating habits the same?

Change up your week with what you think you need more of and maybe that will work! Don't let this period stop you from pushing on! Persevere and you will be happy that you did.

Small Talk 6: 6 Signs of Stress

Click the picture to learn about Small Talk 6 and what it takes to join in!

This weeks installment is 6 Signs of Stress.

1. I forget even my name.

2. My skin starts to crawl.

3. My head starts feels like it is about to explode.

4. Nothing is ever clean enough.

5. Even my 22 month hold starts hiding out in rooms I am not in.

6. All I want to do is dig a dark hole and hide until the feeling goes away!

Aloha Friday #2 Guilty Pleasure

It is Aloha Friday once again! This means today is a day for taking it easy, therefore I will just ask one simple question. Click the picture to learn more.

What is your guilty pleasure on tv?

My guilty pleasure is Tori and Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood, and not one I always talk about. Not that I am embarrassed of watching (well maybe I am), but I am never sure if anyone else is a fan as well.

Impressionable Words

You would think in our day and age that we as parents have learned what words can break our children.

I hear stories where parents will tell their children, "not to act stupid" or "how dumb can you be?"

Adults think of these as just words, however children take everything you say to heart. They will think they are stupid and dumb if the people they love most tell them they are. In my household the words stupid and dumb are just as bad as your common curse words.

I am reading a book called "Me and Emma" and the parents say the most horrible things to the main characters in this book. Last night I gave my girls a harder hug than usual.

Chick 2 is going through different body changes and one of them is hormones. One little moment can turn on the mother of all meltdowns. Last night was over her eating all her dinner. She lashed out with her words, so as punishment she was sent to her room. She came out and dropped a letter to the floor. What struck me most wasn't the "You are ruining my life", but the "Send me somewhere. You would be better off without me."

As a parent I look back and wonder, "Did I ever do or say anything that would make her think that?"

When she calmed down I made sure to tell her that we would NEVER be better off without her.

Parents have lots of power. Some don't realize this and some use this power for bad. We have the privilege to shape and mold our children any way we want, so why would you crack their fragile beings with words that harm their inner self?

Remember that there are 3 words no matter how often said that can heal all wounds. Those words are "I Love You".

Wordless Wednesday: Where I plan to spend my summer

Summer is almost here and this is the place I plan on spending my summer days!

My Get Up and Go is Gone!

At last weeks Weight Watcher's meeting the leader said how as we get older we suck the fun out of exercising.

When I was a kid I couldn't wait to get out and ride a bike.

Running around and playing chase was the first thing I thought about when I woke up.

I look at my daughter and the highlight of her day is when her teacher takes them out for P.E.

At what age do we as adults take the fun out of exercise?

Is it the word "exercise" that does it in?

There are so many ways to get moving, but why is it so hard to just get up and do them?

Even though I have been running I still have a hard time getting excited over it. It feels more like a chore right up there with laundry and cleaning.

I think it is time to start thinking like a kid in order to make the thought of getting out and exercising more fun.

Work and blogging? How?

Working and finding time for blogging?

How oh how do those who work and have kids do this?

I subbed for 6 days in a row (M-F and T) and after spending time with the chicks, catching up on housework, and spending more time with the chicks I was EXTREMELY exhausted and as soon as Chick 3 was asleep I followed suit and was in bed by 9pm.

Today is my first day off, and actually had time to even go on the computer to check my blogging account. Even had to dust off the computer screen so I could even see what I was looking at.

I am still trying to find a full time job, so hopefully this Chick will learn how to fit in blogging into my day.

Small Talk Six: Most Useful Websites

Want to join in Small Talk Six? Go here to find out more!

Today's topic is "6 Most Useful Websites". Some of the sites I am about to list are useful to me, but I doubt useful to many others.

1. Google: I am always searching for something on google whether it be for info, pictures, or even just one little word I can't remember.

2. Facebook: This site keeps me up to date with the goings ons of the world. Yep my family has taken Facebook to our main way to communicate.

3. Goodreads: Goodreads has become almost as important as Facebook. This site is great for keeping track of books you are reading, have read, or want to read. I am always finding more books I want to read, so I just list them all on this great site made for the bookworms out there.

4. Cafemom: I signed up with Cafemom, because a friend sent me an email to try it out. I didn't go back for a couple years until I found out I was pregnant with Chick 3. I hadn't been pregnant for 7 years and thought this site could help me with what I had forgotten. I wound up finding a group with others pregnant and due around the same time. Who knew I would meet the most wonderful women, who have become lifelong friends!

5. IMDB: This site has become my new best friend. Remember the old days before internet when you would be watching a movie and couldn't place one of the actors/actresses? Well IMDB has alleviated that frustration. My guilty pleasure though is to read the trivia and quotes... You can never have too much useless information in your brain.

6. Blogger: I never thought I would ever start a blog. I am so glad I did. I have met some wonderful blog writers and found so many great and useful networking sites. Who knew how much power us mom bloggers had!

Aloha Friday #1 Favorite Kids Show

It is the end of the week and what better way than to take it easy and just ask my readers a simple question. This means it is time for Aloha Friday!

My question to is:

What is the one show your child/children watches that you can't help but love?

I have to confess that I love watching Wizards of Waverly Place. I just love how witty and funny Selena Gomez is! This show makes me laugh every time!

Security Risks and Copy Machines

This video opened up my eyes into the world of copy machines and the data that is stored. If you have ever photocopied your social security card, or any kind of private information you must watch!

C25K update: Week 6

I started week 6 a couple weeks ago and that week was my slump week. I just couldn't find the motivation to get to the gym those 3 days. I did the first 2 and then started over week 6 the following week as well.

Week 6 Day 1: This day I ran for 5 minutes, walked 3 minutes, ran 8 minutes, walked 3 minutes, ran 5 minutes.

For some reason these interval runs are really hard. Once you get a taste of straight running it is hard to go back.

Week 6 Day 2: This day I ran for 10 minutes, walked 3 minutes, ran 10 minutes.

Again this was hard for me. It is hard just to get into a groove, stop, and then have to get into that running groove once again.

Week 6 Day 3: Run a straight 25 minutes.

This was a great day! I got into my groove and stayed in my groove. I felt great after as well. It wasn't until 5 minutes left warning where I started to get a little antsy. I wonder if I would get that way if there were no warning. Something to think about.

Cheat Sheet Monday!

Summer is just around the corner and this is the time for some vibrant colored food. Best yet will be those dishes, whether main or side dishes, that are no cook recipes.

Here are a couple that I absolutely love and will be making a lot this summer!

Broccoli Slaw

(From Trader Joe’s)

1 12 oz package broccoli slaw

¼ cup raisins or cranberries

¼ cup walnuts or almonds

1 cup diced apples

½ cup of your favorite dressing. ( I used fat-free sun-dried tomato dressing. You can use up to 1 cup of dressing if you prefer more dressing.)

In a medium-sized bowl, combine dry ingredients. Add dressing and mix thoroughly.

Serving size 1 1/4 cup.

Serves 4

* I usually use this as a side dish and eat 1/2 a cup. In WW land that is a 1 point side. I get this 1 point though with using the fat free dressing above. Different dressing yields different points. *

Black Bean, Avocado, Tomato Salad

(From WW Hit The Spot cookbook)

1 (151/2 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed

12 grape tomatoes, halved

½ Hass avocado, halved, pitted, peeled, and cut into ½-inch pieces

2 tbsp lime juice

2 tsp olive oil

¼ tsp salt

2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (optional)

Toss together in a serving bowl.

Serving size ¾ cup.

Serves 4

*The 3/4 cup is about 1.5 points. I am sensitive to all things spicy so the jalapeno is omitted and still tastes yummy*

*** If you are a fellow WW always check point values yourself. These points are what I have figured out. ***

Searching Want Ads...

I am back at the daunting task of finding a job.

I don't mind working, however when going to school I chose the career that is being put through the ringer in California.

That's right I went to school in order to become a teacher. Well I got the bachelors, but never did finish my credential. As soon as I obtained my degree I did become a substitute teacher.

What I loved about subbing is that I didn't have all the stress actual teachers had. I got to teach, but I didn't have to correct papers, or worry about what parents thought of me. I did my teaching and at the end of the day I went home able to keep work at work.

Now there are many teachers being displaced, or let go. That means that as a sub there are less jobs available.

I am now looking for jobs not in the education field. Do I mind? Not really.

However, I only have experience in the education field. Since I was 18 I have worked in the classroom setting. This leaves me with little to no experience in anything else.

Because of this I have decided to look for jobs in the clerical/receptionist field. I am not doing this because I feel the job is "easy", but for the reason that I feel I can do this type of work.

I have taken computer classes, I have self taught myself, and I am a quick learner. I am hoping that when people meet me they see the same.

Job searching can be scary, and I hope I haven't lost my touch when it comes to interviewing.

I do have my first interview tomorrow and the guy I talked to felt he needed to remind me to dress in appropriate attire for interviews.

Umm isn't this common sense.

I guess he has had potential employees come in attire not acceptable. He told me their response was, "No one told me what to wear."

Yeah and that is that why you didn't get hired.

I think all high school students should have to take a course in the basics of life. Isn't this a basic we should all know?

I wonder how many people get texting lingo on resumes. How about a LOL here and a OMG there.

I just hope that employers look at the big picture of what a teacher is capable of. We are great multi-taskers. We can put out "fires" without breaking a sweat. We can help one child while another is calling your name. We have the ability to see things before they happen.

When it comes to working I give it my all every time. Hoping people take the time to see this.

No Phone Zone!!!

I was commenting on blogs and found that Oprah had the new Eclipse trailer. I watched it and then went to my Facebook page to share the link with my fellow Twilight Saga reader friends. As I began to type I hear a voice (I have my headphones on) talking about her child who was killed because he busy looking for his phone while driving. I clicked back to that tab and watched about 3 more stories. These stories were devastatingly sad and really painful to hear!

One lost her parents, because of the other driver texting. She too, was severely injured in this crash. It was her college graduation day.

Parents lost their daughter, because she was busy texting and lost control of her truck. She was really a beautiful girl, who had her whole life ahead of her. Not only did these parents lose their daughter, but she had a sibling that also has to deal with the loss of her sister.

I hear these stories and I really feel it should be common sense to not use your phone while driving. I live in California and the only way you can even be on your phone is if you have a hands free device. That means no texting or talking on the phone. That is not to say I never did this. I admit it. I used to. I never did it when I had my kids in the car though. I thought that since I was alone it didn't matter. How stupid was I?! I may not have had my own children in the car, but what would happen if I crashed into a car with children in it? What if they were killed? I would never be able to forgive myself.

Honestly, is there a call or text that is that important to put your life, your children's life, or even a complete stranger's life in jeopardy? Some may say, "What if this an emergency call?"
To that I reply with, "Well if you feel that in your gut then pull over, so you not only keep from being distracted and causing another emergency, but you can also give whoever is calling your undivided attention." Okay that is me being nice. What I really want to say is, "Well then call 911 not only for the emergency call you are taking, but also for the emergency you may cause while taking this emergency call."

When I am out and I see someone cut me off, or swerve a bit and they are on their phone I get extremely angry and would really like to yell at them. They are putting my kids in danger!!! They are putting themselves in danger! And all because of a call or text they had to take!!!

Please join Oprah and sign her "No Phone Zone" pledge by clicking the picture at the top of this post. If you do take the pledge please leave a comment and tell me you did so.

Always remember when you reach for your phone while driving, "Is this call or text worth my life, the life of my children, or even the life of the innocent ones out there?"

Small Talk Six: Last Few Things You Do At Night

Today’s topic is “The last 6 things you do before you close your eyes at night.” You can answer this with a list of 6 words, 6 phrases, 6 sentences, 6 paragraphs, 6 photos, 6 videos, etc . . .

Go to Mom Dot to learn more!

1. Put clothes over my girls and give them another good-night kiss.

2. Put on PJ's

3. Go pee

4. Set my alarm

5. Make sure I have my phone and book by my bed.

6. Read for at minimum for 30 minutes.

Food and working out

I am fans of many pages on Facebook and the C25K page linked up this article on Eating for Endurance.

What this article states is that when and what you are eating, or lack of eating can hinder your work out.

This got me curious, because some days I have more stamina and energy than others.

One quote struck me the most, "Some athletes consider food their reward at the end of the day; they save up their appetite for a huge feast at dinnertime."

I really don't consider myself an athlete, but I do think of food more of a reward than fuel. I don't save my appetite and I do eat when I should. However, what I chose to eat and how much I eat could hinder my work out performance. I eat less at certain meals like breakfast so I can eat more at dinner (reward for being good during the day). I work out after breakfast, so really may need to change my eating habits in the morning.

I never thought to think about my food as fuel for when I work out. I am more of a "make sure I eat something before" kind of person. What I should have been thinking is that I need to eat foods that will give me the stamina I need to work out and not feel winded over everything I do.

So now I am going to be a person that keeps this in mind, "Wiser athletes treat food as fuel; they knowledgeably fuel before, during and after exercise. They get more out of their workouts and prevent needless fatigue."

The one time I did not eat before working out I paid dearly.

To potty train or not to potty train...

That is now the question!

Chick 3 is almost 21 months. Not yet 2 years old.

I know some parents can't wait to potty train their children, and get rid of the expense and use of diapers.

I am not one of them. Chick 2 was 3 when I started the potty training process. It went extremely well and was potty trained in a couple days.

Then there is Chick 3. At almost 21 months she has learned a new catchphrase of, "I poo" in which she lifts up her shirt.

She has a 50/50 chance of being right with the whole poo in diaper thing.

Chick 2 never showed signs like this. At least non I was aware of.

I am so not ready to potty train, but what happens when they start to show the signs?

Do I rush out and get a potty and see what happens?

Do I just wait it out and see if this phase is short-termed and will come back at the age of 3?

I have a feeling I will end up waiting for a couple reasons:

1. She is a camel and drinks her cups filled with "flavored water" one right after another.
2. She leaks through her diapers, because of #1
3. She wakes up with a heavy 1 ton diaper, also because of #1.

The verdict is still in limbo on this one.

Cheat Sheet Mondays!

Today's Cheat Sheet Monday's will be 3 different, yet quick ideas for lunch. For lunch I try to include one veggie and one fruit. That way I can get my 5 servings of fruit and vegetables a day.

• Fat Free Hot Dog: (I prefer Ball Park, because they do taste pretty good). They are about 50 calories each and in WW land a fat free hot dog is 1 point. Pair it with a low calorie bread or bun and a bit of condiment, and you are all set!

• Sandwhich: For bread I use either a low calorie whole grain bread, or sandwich thin (they are extremly yummy... Here is what they look like --> Click). For lunch meat I use a lean meat. I prefer turkey, because they are low in fat and in WW land 0 points for one slice. I top this with Kraft 2% skim milk American cheese, tomato, lettuce, and a bit of avocado. I don't use mayo, because honestly not a big mayo fan. You can always use some hummus (new thing I have tried), or even some fat free Thousand Island. If you love mayo, just use some fat free mayo, or use the minimum that will give a bit of the taste.

• Veggie wrap/burrito: I have always been one on the search for a low calorie tortilla that was a nice size and tastes yummy. Smart and Delicious makes just that. A nice big tortilla for 100 calories. I am on a black bean kick, so I will heat up a 1/3 cup of black beans. Don't like black beans? Try some fat free refried beans. Once I heat up my tortilla and black beans the "hard work" is over. What I love to fill my wrap/burrito up with is about a pinch of shredded, low fat cheddar cheese (can use whatever kind you prefer, but I would stick with low fat), 1-2 tbsp of salsa (make sure fat free... I have heard there is non fat free out there), lettuce (which I pile as much as my tortilla will let me), and some avocado (just a bit, because even though it is a healthy fat, must be used in moderation). This wrap/burrito is high in fiber and filling foods, and paired with a fruit is a nice filling lunch!

Remember to add some fruit, like an apple, orange (I love the cutie oranges, because they are easy to peel), strawberries, berries, etc.

If I don't have a veggie that goes with the main attraction of my lunch I will add some baby carrots, a small side salad with fat free dressing, or some jicama. You can always add whatever veggie you prefer.

I Surrender

The white flag is up.

I surrender finally.

To who may I be surrendering to?

I am surrendering to the sleeping gods.

I do have selfish reasons, because I am hoping that by surrendering I may just get their sympathy and finally they will give me the sleep I so feel I deserve.

Sleeping gods please have mercy on this mommy, who would love to have 1 good nights sleep eventually.

Please?

I really would greatly appreciate it!

C25K Weeks 4 and 5

C25k means Couch to 5K. It is a running program to get us lazy couch potatoes to running a 5k. Don't be crazy it isn't meant to get there overnight. It is designed to build you up slowly over a 9 week period. Best yet it only takes 30 minutes. We all have 30 minutes right?

Last week I completed week 4. Well 2 of the days. I really did complete it... well let me explain.

Day 1: Today was the first day of running for 5 minutes. I was truly worried I would not be able to do it. I mean 5 minutes is a lot of running! At least they threw in 3 minutes of running in between. Accomplished this no problem.

Day 2: This was a repeat of day one. For some reason day 2 felt harder. Maybe it is that middle of the week slump we all feel.

Day 3: Ok, so today I was supposed to do day 3. Well silly me looked ahead to Week 5 Day 1 to see what I had in store for me next week. Smart me forgot to put it back to Week 4 day 3. Didn't figure it out till I was halfway done with my running. Whoops. Made it through and knew I at least could accomplise Week 5... um thought I knew what I had to look forward too, because well, I had no idea!

Week 5:

Day 1: I have tendencies of bouts with OCD and had to finish Week 4 today. Of course it was a piece of cake (mmm cake... nope let's not think about that).

Day 2: This day I ran 2, eight minute runs. I was very proud of myself and how easy it seemed to be. My high lasted a short while, because I knew what was coming up for Day 3. AHHH!

Day 3: TWENTY minutes!!! Yep, TWENTY minutes of straight running. I thought they were INSANE! I mean I JUST got to 8 minutes and now they want me to run TWENTY? I was tempted to go back to Week 5 Day 2, but I got my head out of the sand and figured they must know something I don't.

All I have to say is NEVER EVER underestimate your ability! Twenty minutes may seem like a lot, but I did it. The last 5 minutes were hard, because I knew that my running was coming to an end. I got in my zone, and made sure that if I felt thirsty I drank water. There is nothing better than the feeling of accomplishing something you never knew you could do!

STAY TUNED FOR WEEK 6!

*To Learn More about the C25K click the link I have posted at the top of this blog!*

Happy Earth Day!

Today I was the cool mom and let Chick 2 play hooky from school. Okay I am not that cool.

Chick 2 is a science buff and her dream is to be a Marine Biologist. Since today was Earth day I let stay home from school to do some Earth day activities. I got some little dollar grow kits from Target, so we could plant some flowers and such. I would have done a tree, but honestly there is no room and they are not cheap.

Her big Earth day present (also a learning experience) was to see Disney's Oceans. I have to say they really outdid themselves. My eyes were filled with tears the whole movie (could have been because I am one over tired mommy, but still...). The footage is amazing and to see the damage we are doing to this wonderful place God created is astounding. Seeing it from the ocean life's point of view really puts it all into perspective.

I give this movie 2 thumbs up!

To see learn more about the movie click ---> Here

Wordless Wednesday

Brought to you by Mom Dot...

In this picture: Chick 3

Caption: EGG DYE DOES NOT TASTE GOOD!

A part of life?

When it comes to news I sometimes live under a rock.

I don't watch the news (too depressing).

I don't read the newspaper (would rather be reading a book).

What I do see is from my Yahoo! home page when I click on my web browser, or from when I am at the grocery store and gaze at People Magazine.

People Magazine is exactly where I learned about Phoebe Prince who committed suicide, because she was being bullied.

When we think of people getting picked on in school, we think that it is a part of life.

Why should being bullied be a part of life?

When I was in junior high school I was bullied, and it was more of taunting because I was a little overweight, and didn't look the part of the "popular crowd". I would get things thrown at me, and when they walked by me in class I would get slaps on the back of my head.

Did my teachers know? Probably, but what teacher gets voluntarily involved. Plus this was circa '92, '93, '94.

I am glad I am not a bullied child these days. Now we have social networks, instant messaging, emails, and text messaging. I was just bullied at school. These days it never ends at school, it follows you home.

When I hear stories about Phoebe Prince and others who commit suicide because they are bullied my heart breaks yet again.

No child deserves to live like this. They should be able to go to school and go through their day, without worrying if they wore the right thing, or said the right thing. Bullying IS NOT a part of life. I am one of the lucky ones who got through it.

If you are a parent please make it a point to be more aware of your child and their moods. That can be a big indicator!

Cheat Sheet Mondays

Today's Cheat Sheet Monday is titled "Add some Pizazz to Oatmeal."

I know what your thinking when you hear oatmeal *yuck*. I was the same way. I thought it tasted like cardboard cereals that you know are healthy, but taste gross. And don't get me started on the flavored packs of oatmeal... that just made it worse!

Now plain oatmeal still is *yuck* to me. I need some pizazz, some flavor.

Why am I focusing on oatmeal?

To me I get a lot more food compared to cereals, or even an egg and whole grain toast. Plus it makes me full. I love feeling full after eating and know that I didn't just gorge myself on unhealthy foods. Feeling full without the guilt is just that much better!

Ways to "pizazz that oatmeal" (I use a canister of rolled oats: 1 cup of boiling water for 1/2 cup of oats = 1 cup of oatmeal)

Add 2 tsp of vanilla extract

1 tbsp of thinly sliced almonds

A few shakes of cinnamon

a handful of raisins

My favorite:

2 tsp of reduced fat peanut butter

1/2 of a banana sliced

Some like to add a little bit of milk to make it creamier.

Some add other fruits like any kind of berries, or even apples.

For those WW die-hards like me at most these bowls of oatmeal equal 3.5 points.

C25K update!

I may have slacked with the blog, but proudly I have not slacked with my attempt at the C25K program.

If you aren't familiar with this program and love to run, but don't know where to begin this is the program for you! This is a 9 week program to get you from being a couch potato to running a 5k or 3.1 miles.

Week 1:

I did finish week one, but did an extra day so I put in a total of 4 days instead of the 3 they suggest. I felt I wasn't ready enough for week 2. I never thought that 60 seconds of running would be as hard as it was at first. I guess I was more out of shape than I thought.

Week 2:

For week 2 I decided to use the gym, so I could work in some weights as well. Some people like being outside while they run. I on the other hand need a spot to focus on so I don't think about what I am doing or how much time I may have left. The gym is that perfect place for just that.

There are some negatives with the gym though. The treadmills seem to always be the most popular machine. If you go at the right time of day there is no problem with this. At my gym they put a 30 minute max on the machines. I have to make sure to time it just right to fit the run in.

At the end of week 2 I really wanted to run more than the program said to. That is the overachiever in me, but I stuck to the actual intervals instead of making up my own.

Week 3:

I was very scared about week 3, since I would be running for 3 minutes straight. Three minutes may not sound like a lot, but for those who don't run often it is a long time. What I really liked though is that at every 60 second mark the program told you how much time was left.

By the end of the week I felt so energized, because I knew that I really could do it and that this program was doing it's job of slowly getting your stamina where it needed to be. I also notice definition in my legs that wasn't there before. If that isn't motivating enough I don't know what is!

I am now onto Week 4, which means 5 minutes of running! AHH! I know I will be able to push through like always!

So far this program does not disappoint and I cannot wait to sign up for some 5k's in the near future.

Cheat Sheet Mondays

I know I know I have been slacking in the blogging department. The last few weeks I suffered from writer's block, and then spring break with the chicks. Trying to get back on track here and what better way than to start with a post on food!

Today's Cheat Sheet Monday is a dessert idea. I guess I like to write about tricks that involve dessert, because I always always need to end mine with a treat!

This was an idea given by my mom so I thought I would share.

You will need...

I used reduced fat graham crackers... even low fat/reduced fat cinnamon would work. I take a whole cracker and crush it into tiny crumbs. This goes at the bottom of the bowl.

I take one pudding snack. I prefer sugar free, but fat free works as well. I scoop out the pudding of one and put that on top of the graham crackers.

I am a whipped topping feign and put this on any dessert I can think of. In WW land this is 0 points for 2 tablespoons. I put that serving on top of the pudding.

This snack is low in calories and in fat. For me this is a 2 point snack and perfect for the end of my day!