Book Review: Real Girls Eat

I'm beginning to read book on health and fitness as that is where my passion is...currently. If you've been reading my blog, you will know about how fascinated I am with fitness and all things healthy. I really want to be a yoga teacher and hope that one day that dream will come true. But until then, the library is my classroom, and I am studying for knowledge.

I stumbled upon this book. I love the pictures and yes, I did judge a book by its cover. I ALWAYS DO!

and then I read the back or flip through a few pages.

What I was amazed by, besides the incredible photography, is the passion the author has about eating to be healthy and not skinny. I am wanting to start a campaign that focuses on health and not size.

This book really hones in on female's innate need to feel skinny and the lengths that we will go (starving, eating disorders, crash diets, etc)/

I feel like Paul really read my mine. I totally need to rework my brain to ENJOY food and not look at it as a monster.

Here are some of great quotes from the book:

"I would like to quesiton all girls and all women-as to what they think being thin will do for them."

"its basically a fake reaity cleverly packaged and relentlessly presented." (on models in magazines)

"The best way to eat any food is for energy and well being."

Here are a few tips I am going to incorporate more:

Eat breakfast before you go out

Carry nuts, seeds, raisins, fruit with you.

Read labels: if you can't pronounce it, don't ingest it.

I really really liked this book.

I give it 4 out of 5 hearts!!

It also contained some great recipes that I am definitely going to try.

You can also find more information here at Girlosophy

Non-Dairy (not Vegan)Berry Muffins

These are yummers...and super easy.

I used my 500 Cupcakes book I got from our wedding shower and decided to whip these up.

Ingredients:

2 1/2 cups berries

2 cups flour

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 T baking powder

4 T coconut oil

2 lightly beaten eggs.

Grease muffin pan if not using paper cups.

I blended the berries in the Vitamix.

I combined the melted coconut oil and eggs in a large bowl.

Combine all dry ingredients, then add to the wet ingredients.

Fold in and incorporate berries.

Use an ice cream scooper to divvy out the muffins into the pans.

Bake for about 18 minutes at 350 degrees

Yummy!!

Yoga: Things I'm Loving

On this edition of Things I'm Loving, I'm sharing my favorite Yoga-esque things :)

Tara Stiles

...umm she is phenomenal. I love her yoga, both challenging and simple. She has great clean eating tips to. Please check her out. You will love her yoga classes. This one is my favorite:

Check her out on You Tube and Twitter

Yoga Mat

Hot Yoga

Chair Pose

This pose is a killer thigh/leg workout. I love it because it BURNS so good! There are a few variations I like also. Chair Pose on tippy toes or Twisting Chair Pose.

This pose is great for strengthening hip flexors, legs, and thighs. 

Triangle Pose

When I first began yoga, I could do without this pose. All the yoga teachers repeated over and over how it was their favorite pose. WHAT?! It hurts and I really didn't believe I would ever enjoy it, but I do. I really do love any pose that works your hips, especially since giving birth :)

This pose is great for:

• Stretches legs, muscles around the knee, ankle joints, hips, groin muscles, hamstrings, calves, shoulders, chest and spine
• Strengthens legs, knees, ankles, abdominals, obliques and back
• Stimulates function of abdominal organs
• Relieves stress
• Improves digestion and constipation
• Helps to alleviate back pain and symptoms of menopause
• Used therapeutically for anxiety, infertility, neck pain and sciatica 

(compliments of active.com)

Yogis on Twitter:

Tara Stiles

Rainbeau Mars

Atoning Yoga

Corepower Yoga

Nut Tacos

Last week, I made some nut tacos and they were pretty good. I do need to work on it though. My friend mentioned making cashew cheese. I know pretty interesting

Ingredients:

2 cups walnuts, ground (I used the Vitamix)

Seasoning;

Soy sauce to taste

Cumin to taste

Pepper to taste

I combined and let marinade for at least 30 minutes. I cooked them just so they would have a toasted taste.

I served them with tomatoes, beans, and cheese on a romaine fillet.

Pretty yummers!!

The Duck Pond

Last Sunday we visited the duck pond by our house. Little miss was tired so she didn't show too much interest, but it meant so much to me.

Why?

Because we were doing things as a family.

I loved those things as a child. Fun, spontaneous activities that didn't cost anything, but were still fun.

What fun memories do you have from childhood?

Fitness Week 8

Where did all this chocolate come from?!!

Okay so this week, I've eaten just a little too much chocolate. 

But you know what. I haven't eaten too much.

I've been doing a lot of fitness and health reading and much of what I learned is to NOT be afraid of food.

If I view chocolate as an enemy, then I am really more likely to eat it. But if I enjoy it occasionally, I am less likely to overindulge. Now I know its not good for you, but I'm kinda at my wits end with my eating regiment.

Let me get a little real with you.... if I may.

I realize that I am a control freak. This presents itself in many ways. 

My weight

My looks

My parenting

My marriage

My friendships

My relationship with God

MY LIFE!!!

So here I am saying "Girl, give it up." or in the case of chocolate "Girl, eat it!!"

I really am a FIRM believer in clean eating, juicing, fruits and veggies, and fitness. 

But I'm not perfect and I gotta stop giving myself pats on the back when I think I am.

Okay enough about that already!!

I do want to say on Tuesday, Lauryn Evarts from The Skinny Confidential, shares her journey to fitness. I love her and think she is a great resource of living healthy.

Here is how my week in fitness went :)

Saturday: 90 minutes Bikram Hot Yoga 

Sunday: 14 mile run (I'm ready for that half marathon :)

Monday: 30 minute yoga, 30 minute yoga (I didn't finish it all)

Tuesday:

Wednesday: 4 mile run; Tone It Up/Blogilates/Sarah Dussault workout

Thursday: 7 mile run; Tone it Up Barre Workout

Friday: (planned) run and maybe some yoga

I've been trying to get as much info as I can about health and fitness. I will have a couple posts up about the books I'm reading. 

Are there any that you recommend?

Lent...My thoughts

Lent began this past Wednesday. I have participated in this tradition the past couple of years. I have given up several different things:

Sugar
Soda
Coffee
Facebook
TV
Talking on my phone while driving :) (glad this one has stuck)
Listening to the radio


There are so many distractions in this world that it can be so easy to just get caught up in STAYING BUSY!

That is definitely where I struggle.

Something ALWAYS has to be going on.

But this year I decided to give up something different.

I'm giving up my negative attitude.

Let me first say I have already messed up several times. And this is only the 8th day of Lent.

But I'm really trying to not be angry or snarky or sarcastic.

I want my words to be uplifting.

I want my time spent with others to be refreshing for them.


What I am, is a product of wanting to be the best. That is the firstborn girl in me. :)

I struggle with comparing myself to others.

To not being good enough.

To not deserving what I have, but also wanting what others have.

See its a tricky place to be.

And all this has created an inner hostility in me that causes stress.

I am that duck: trying to be cool, calm, and collected on the outside; and going mad under the water scrambling for perfection.

I have been reminded constantly in my time with God about how treasured and valued I am. Not just me but everyone.

So why don't I believe it?!

Years of building up walls, I'm afraid to let it come down.

Afraid I'll get buried and won't be able to see out.

Truth is I've already created that wall that prevents me from moving forward.

So here I am. Lent has just been over a week and although I've messed up, In committed to changing my attitude.

Did you give up anything for Lent? Share your thoughts below ;)

Cocoa Coconut Macaroons

I LOVE MACAROONS!!


Even though this is a low fat recipe...its totally full of sugar...sorry.

I used my Betty Crocker Recipe Book and made some adjustments.


Ingredients
2 egg whites
1/2 t of vanilla
2/3 cup Organic Coconut Sugar (Madhava is the brand I use)
2 T of Cocoa
2/3 cup shredded sweetened coconut

Preheat oven to 375. In a medium bowl, beat the egg whites and vanilla until soft peaks form (when you lift the beaters a peak should form, but fall, not stick straight up). Begin incorporating about a Tablesoppon of sugar at a time. Continue until all sugar is incorporated. Then add the cocoa 1 Tablespoon at a time. Continue till hard peaks form (when you lift the beater, it should stick straight up.) Fold in coconut. Use an ice cream scooper to measure out cookies. Place about 2 inches apart. Bake for about 20 minutes (please check as all ovens are different). I like mine gooey.


Enjoy!!!

Running: Things I'm Loving

Here are a few of my favorite running accessories i'm loving or would love to love:

Belaga Hidden Comfort Socks:

 My MIL got these for me at Christmas, and I LOVE THEM. They are super comfy. If you are a long distance runner, I'm sure you've experienced the pain of blisters on your heels. These are so soft and thick, but they don't cause sweaty feet.

Under Armour Compression Cold Gear Tights:

I also got these for Christmas. And I really think they make me run faster. I do! I've been averaging just under 9 min/mi while pushing the stroller. They are really tight and I do have a hard time getting them off sometimes, but its totally worth it. Especially since they keep me warm in the cool weather.

Nike Lunar Glide 4+

So I'm totally a Nike girl. I've tried New Balance and Aisiacs, but I keep coming back to Nike. Plus I love all their fun colors. I like that they are snug and provide extra comfort. Since I mostly run with the stroller, I had to abandon my Nike Free Runs because they didn't offer much support. I also like that on Nike's website you can take a test to help you find the right one. I switched the laces to match a pair that Lilly got for Christmas. hehe

Charity Miles App

This really keeps me motivated to run. I feel like people are counting on me. I am currently running for Autism as February is National Autism Awareness Month. 

Will you join me?

Lucy's Race Your Heart Out Long Sleeve

I have an obsession with cute running/workout clothes. I always tell my husband about how I saw a runner in cute clothes. He thinks I'm silly.

Maybe its the comfort or the fit, but I really do love feeling 'cute' when I go running.

It's motivating to get a new pair of shoes. I feel that way about new workout clothes.
Judge all you want :)

Blogs that I am fueling up with motivation

Mom's Little Running Buddy
The Skinny Runner
Mommy Run Fast

The Running Mom

What are some of your favorite running items?

Fitness week 7

This week was a lot easier than last week.

I've been trying to get back to eating healthier.

Valentines wasn't too bad.

I've consumed a lot of coconut macaroons.


I also stumbled upon organic coconut sugar and LOVE IT!!

It's got a toasted flavor too.

Thursday night I made nut tacos. I will post the recipe next week. They were delicious!!


Fitness
Saturday: 20 minute yoga and 5 mile walk
Sunday: 6.6 mile run
Monday: 10 mile run
Tuesday: yoga
Wednesday: 4 miles of Intervals; arms and abs Love Your Body by Tone it Up
Thursday: Love your booty and valentines workout by Tone it Up; 3 mile walk
Friday: (planned) walk and yoga

I'm going to hot yoga again on Saturday. This time it is Bikram.

Have you done Bikram? It is very difficult and a true challenge for me!!

I can't believe we are now in the middle of February!! How are your health resolutions going? If you got off track, that's okay!! You have a brand new day tomorrow to start again!!

Be encouraged

Just wanted to let you all know that you are WONDERFUL!!

Feel beautiful.


Take a walk.



Drink water and feel refreshed.



Enjoy coffee with good friends.


Life is short, but long enough to make a memory.


How will you be remembered?


Be encouraged moms, dads, friends, and readers!!


Today is a new day, paint it BOLDLY!!

Coconut: What I'm Loving

If you've been locked in a basement the past year, this information may be new to you. Coconut is totally IN!

Which probably means in 6 months it will be OUT, but it has so many benefits, I'm gonna ignore the FAD instinct our culture places on food ( Remember ACAI?!)

I first fell in love with coconut water and then it was all down hill from there. Coconut sugar is my new favorite and I am hoping to have some coconut flour recipes up soon :)

Coconut oil: What can't this  be used for. Hair, skin, cooking, baking, you name it, coconut oil has been suggested to use. I love the smell of this when used as a lotion.

Coconut flakes: I really like the organic unsweetened flakes, it makes me feel healthier when I eat it. I've added it to my homemade granola and its delicious. Great addition to smoothies.

Coconut sugar: Madhava is the brand I use. It's organic and just under 5 bucks at Walmart. It has a light toasted flavor. I use it in baking and in my morning cup o joe.

Coconut water: full of potassium and electrolytes, a wonderful post workout recovery drink. My favorite brand is Naked. It's super refreshing and best enjoyed chill. Not everyone enjoys its sweet taste, but it is a splendid treat.

Coconut flour: the texture of this flour is VERY unique. It smells like coconut but has a grainy, sandy texture, like brown rice flour. It is gluten free, which is a nice perk.

What is your favorite way to enjoy coconut?

She Reads Truth

This January, along with eating healthy, I really wanted to be reading my Bible more.
Our word for the year is Intentional and I feel like I need my time to be intentional.
Watching Lilly grow and realizing how quickly time does fly, makes me want to spend my time purposefully.

I been using the YouVersion app, I've mentioned before to do my Bible reading, although I try to use my bible as much as possible.

I really looks the Devotionals on YouVersion. They have Bible reading plans, topical, plans for different ages or lifestyles.

I just finished doing Made to Crave by Lysa Terkerset.
I am also doing She Reads Truth devotional.
This year I really wanted to read through the Bible.

I'm not saying those to uplift myself, but in case you want more input about my thoughts on them.

Since beginning this year, I've been hit with my insecurities, yet again!!
Do they ever go away?! ;)

I've learned:
1. That I'm not perfect and no one is expecting me to be
2. Taking time for myself is not selfish
3. We are all struggling with something (mine is #1)
4.Focus on what is true (Phillipians 4:8)
5. What my heart is desires that is where my heart is.


I'm really trying to focus on not letting my mind wander. Do you do that?
It gets me in trouble as once I start to think, I begin to over analyze and then I begin to obsess.

My mind creates issues that don't exist. I'm working in letting it go.

No one is expecting perfection of me. And if someone feels like I'm not good enough, then I need to be okay with how they feel whether they let me know or choose to share it with others.

I CANNOT CONTROL OTHER'S THOUGHTS OF ME.

So what can I do?

I can work on my thoughts. Making my efforts to focus on what is true.

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." (Philippians 4:8 NIV)

Look at all I have to be great-full for. I have a loving family, a wonderful husband, a beautiful daughter. I'm able to stay home and live in a nice neighborhood.

Once again, I'm not here to brag. I'm here to let you know that I too need to stop and smell the roses.

I need to be great-full.

God has blessed is so much and it's so easy to let Him know what he could do a better job at.

I hope this finds you and encourages you. Whether you believe in Christ or God or not, there is truth in this:

You are blessed. Be glad and rejoice!!

I know Christ's love will continue to full the cracks that have been made throughout my life. And to that I say:

Hallelujah!!

Have a wonderful week readers!!

Week 6 fitness

This week was HARD!!

I overindulged way too much on Sunday and wound up sick on Monday.

I definitely overexerted myself.


We are really trying to eat clean and a lot of the meals I make have no added oil. Hubby is getting all his greens with juicing, but I LOVE eating burgers and tacos sans bread and with romaine filets.

I really like the crunch!!

We are still loving being a part of the juicing club!! My favorite is apple, orange, carrot, and celery. That one does have a lot of sugar, but it's natural right?! :)


Saturday: 75 minute Hot Yoga
Sunday: 4.6 mile run, 4.3 mile run, commercial workout by Tone It Up ( only the first half)
Monday: too sick to move ;(
Tuesday: Love your Booty (2x); Love your Abs (1x); 50 minutes of P90x yoga
Wednesday: 4 mile run
Thursday: sunkissed abs (2x), Valentines workout
Friday: (planned) short run, love your body workouts (2x)

This weekend I'm hoping to get in a long run (11 miles).
I want to run 13 miles each month. I meant to do it in 2011, but we got pregnant (that's a legit excuse ;).

My half marathon is in 37 days!!! I'm so very excited!!

How was your week in health/fitness?

Chicken and avocado tacos

I've really been into Romaine fillets. I love that that is what they are called.

This recipe is super easy.

I grilled a chicken breast and cut it up.

Added half an avocado, chopped.

Squeezed a little lime over it.

Ate it like a taco ;)

Enjoy!!

Green Giant Juice

This green juice is packed full of vitamins, which is why I named it the Green Giant.

I've become so fascinated with juicing. Here is some info I've learned about each of the ingredients.

Cucumbers:
Spinach:
Kale: Vitamins A, C, and K
Apples

Ingredients:

1 cucumber
1 green apple
1cup kale
2 cup spinach

(Please follow your juicer's guide for speeds and ingredients)

Baby Go To Sleep Sleep

To sleep train or not? I feel like this is a question plaguing me for the past month.

Why can't I just have confidence in my our parenting?!

I know at some point Little Miss needs to be in her crib, but there is that one thought that keeps creeping back into my mind...

She just wants to be held.

And I have no problem with that.

A lot of the sleep training that I agree with has you go into the child's room and soothe them back to sleep even if that means 100 times a night.

That scares me.

Cosleeping has been so nice as once Little miss goes to sleep. She pretty much stays asleep (minus a night feeding and a few nursing to pacify moments).


I do think I need to create a bedtime routine.


Here is the plan:

6:00: bath
6:15: story and/or song
6:30: nurse
6:45: lay to sleep


I'm gonna be working on this and know that I do need to be flexible with her schedule as things come up.

What does your child's bedtime routine look like?

Oat Protein Pancakes

I've never been a breakfast eater. Food seems to upset my tummy in the morning. And I didn't even like breakfast type foods: pancakes, waffles, eggs, breakfast burritos, omelettes, none of it.

Until I had Lilly. Now I enjoy eggs and breakfast foods. So weird?!

Here is a recipe I found and tried to make a bit healthier:

1/2 cups white flour
1/2 cups wheat flour
2 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 1/2 t of baking powder
1/2 t of salt
2T of Turbinado sugar
3 heaping Tablespoons of Fage yogurt
2cups Almond milk
2 egg whites

Combine dry ingredients. Add milk, eggs, yogurt in that order, stirring/incorporating after each is added.

Set burner to 3-4 (or medium-low heat) cook for about 1 minute on each side ( a pancake is ready to flip when you can see holes)

Enjoy with fruit or jam!!

Each pancake is about 150 calories per 1/3 cup wet.