my #fitafterfitbloggin update

(was this pic really taken a month ago?!)

Again with the thumbs

Im Phoneblogger McGee.

Id planned me no post

on this Monday you see.

I got up in the dark

FICTIONthoughts in my head.

Stories to write.

Could NOT stay in bed.

Now Tornado’s awake.

It’s still crack of dawn.

Im plopped on the couch.

The TV is on.

It’s tempting indeed.

To think: Man I wiped.

I’ve accomplished some stuff!

Lottsa PAGES I typed!

So I turn to all YOU.

With a check-in of sorts.

Tell me what yer up to

be it solo or sports.

Im committing today.

To hang with the Yee!

(Rodney I mean

It’s YOGA for me.)

Please hit me up

In the comments below.

You still keeping fit?

HOW? LET US KNOW!!

View the original article here

The End of Overeating: Taking Control of the Insatiable American Appetite

Most of us know what it feels like to fall under the spell of food when one slice of pizza turns into half a pie, or a handful of chips leads to an empty bag. But it s harder to understand why we can't seem to stop eating even when we know better. When we want so badly to say "no," why do we continue to reach for food?

 

Dr. David Kessler, the dynamic former FDA commissioner who reinvented the food label and tackled the tobacco industry, now reveals how the food industry has hijacked the brains of millions of Americans. The result? America s number-one public health issue. Dr. Kessler cracks the code of overeating by explaining how our bodies and minds are changed when we consume foods that contain sugar, fat, and salt. Food manufacturers create products by manipulating these ingredients to stimulate our appetites, setting in motion a cycle of desire and consumption that ends with a nation of overeaters. The End of Overeating explains for the first time why it is exceptionally difficult to resist certain foods and why it s so easy to overindulge.

 

Dr. Kessler met with top scientists, physicians, and food industry insiders. The End of Overeating uncovers the shocking facts about how we lost control over our eating habits and how we can get it back. Dr. Kessler presents groundbreaking research, along with what is sure to be a controversial view inside the industry that continues to feed a nation of overeaters from popular brand manufacturers to advertisers, chain restaurants, and fast food franchises.

 

For the millions of people struggling with weight as well as for those of us who simply don't understand why we can't seem to stop eating our favorite foods, Dr. Kessler s cutting-edge investigation offers new insights and helpful tools to help us find a solution.

 

There has never been a more thorough, compelling, or in-depth analysis of why we eat the way we do.

Price: $15.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Greedy Kid #2 Models the Garmin Forerunner 305

Last workout, 6/27/11: 30-min. of upper body strength with plyometric burst intervals. Gah! It was HARD!!! Click here to view my daily training log and list of recommended fitness products.

Product Spotlight: Garmin Forerunner 305

Stupid Diet Tip #409

—————————————-

Grab some Shakeology in my Beachbody shop.

Shakeology is a complete meal (shake) developed by Beachbody, the makers of P90X. It contains 16-18 grams of protein and 140 calories per serving. The shake will help you lose weight, reduce cravings, improve digestion, and lower cholesterol. It can also improve stamina and libido, alleviate hormonal issues (including menopause-related), aid memory, support immune function and boost serotonin levels to improve mood and symptoms of depression, while also reducing the symptoms of high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis.

Shakeology 30-Day Recipe Calendars

Chocolate and Greenberry nutrition labels.

90 Days of Shakeology: My Experiment

Shakeology money back guarantee.

If you’re passionate about helping people achieve their fitness goals and you’re committed to achieving financial independence, contact me now about becoming a Beachbody Coach.
—————————————-

Sponsored YUM! & Partners

Strengthen your core for the summer with a new exercise ball.

Get the facts on Slimfast weight loss.

My Lifestyle Diet

Florida Drug Treatment

Become a Sponsor .

—————————————-

Full Disclosure regarding paid advertisements, affiliate links and product reviews. .

.

View the original article here

The winner of the Zensah tank top:

DENISE!

Email me (mizfit08 at yahoo dot com) and I shall connect you and yer daughter with your prize!

View the original article here

Honest Tea Heavenly Lemon Tulsi Iced Tea Review

Have you heard of the herb "Tulsi" before? I confess that I had not until I saw it on the Honest Tea Heavenly Lemon Tulsi Iced Tea label. Turns out, "Tulsi" is also known as "holy basil", a naturally caffeine-free herb. Honest Tea says, we infuse organic tulsi with aromatic lemon peel, lemon myrtle and lemon grass for a soothing blend that transcends ordinary herbal tea.

NUTRITION FACTS
Serving Size: 8 ounces
Calories: 30
Total Fat: 0%
Saturated Fat: 0%
Sodium: 5 mg, 0%
Carbohydrates: 8 grams
Fiber: 0%
Sugars: 8 grams
Protein: 0 grams

I received samples of this tea to review recently, and I found there to that there was a strong presence of the herb & tea flavor - a taste I can't quite describe, but it wasn't too overpowering and it was rather pleasant. The tea was also a bit tangy and minty, and lightly sweetened. I think this might take some getting used to, especially if you're used to having more heavily sweetened tea drinks, but what I love about this Lemon Tulsi Tea is that I can taste the ingredients - the tea, the lemon & the basil.

Each 8 ounce serving of Honest Tea Heavenly Lemon Tulsi Iced Tea provides 30 calories and 8 grams of sugars. The ingredients are purified water, organic cane sugar, organic herbal blend (organic green roobios, organic lemongrass, organic tulsi, organic lemon peel, organic lemon myrtle), organic lemon juice concentrate, organic lemon extract.

As I mentioned, I received samples of this for review, but I regularly see this (and other Honest Tea products) at my local grocery store for around $1.70 for a 16 ounce bottle. And I would buy this flavor in the future - it's light and refreshing and ... different. Just remember, it's lightly sweetened!

{Website: Honest Tea}

View the original article here

Blue Diamond Almonds (Garden Herb) Review

I love how Blue Diamond took nuts to another level by adding spices - the Blue Diamond Almonds (Lime 'n Chili) and the Vanilla Bean Natural Roasted Almonds are ridiculously good, so when I saw Blue Diamond Almonds (Garden Herb) on sale, I decided to try it.

NUTRITION FACTS
Serving Size: 28 grams (about 28 nuts)
Calories: 170
Total Fat: 15 grams, 24%
Saturated Fat: 1 gram, 6%
Sodium: 125 mg, 5%
Carbohydrates: 5 grams
Fiber: 3 grams, 11%
Sugars: 1 gram
Protein: 6 grams

I didn't like this one (the Garden Herb) as much as the other two, but flavor-wise it was spot on - a little salt combined with a herb mix (and it's a wee bit garlicky too). I think not everyone will appreciate this flavor, but I liked it. The problem is that some of this powdery mix would come off on my fingers, and when it's combined with moisture after eating a few nuts, it gets "tacky" or sticky (like glue) and comes off on any surface touched.

Now, as usual with nuts - you have to be really careful about portion control, because natural or not, they are high in fat for just a small amount. A 28 gram serving of Blue Diamond Almonds (Garden Herb) (about 28 nuts) provides 170 calories, 15 grams of total fat (24% of the daily value), only 1 gram of which is saturated (6% of the DV). There is 125 mg sodium (5% of the DV), 3 grams of fiber (11% of the DV), 1 gram of sugars and 6 grams of protein.

The ingredients in Blue Diamond Almonds (Garden Herb) are almond, vegetable oil (canola, safflower and/or sunflower), corn, maltodextrin, sea salt, rice flour, garlic powder, spice, sugar, citric acid and spice extracts (including thyme, oregano, rosemary). I bought a 6 ounce container for $2.99 on sale (regular $3.99).

This is not one of my favorite flavors though, and I certainly wouldn't buy it again at regular price, however, I am intrigued enough to try some more of the Bold Blue Diamond Nuts.

{Website: Blue Diamond Almonds}

View the original article here

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Fit Stanley UPDATE! (pls. read if you want a visit)

(The little FitMan’s first foray into adventure with the Austin Holy Rollers)

Please to know I initially wrote this as a traditional blog post.

Nary a bullet in sight and filled with rambling stories (why I named Fit Stella what I did), musings of love (so so excited you are all on board with this) and stunned admissions of how expensive this has all gotten (color copies, laminating, mailing–who knew?).

I plopped the post away, yanked out, reread and nearly fell asleep when doing do.

Indeed.

It was that FIT’citing.

As a result I give you the short version.   Bulleted for her pleasure:

So many of us wanted a Fit Stanley I’ve created/laminated a bunch.  In addition, I had myriad requests for a female version, so Fit Stella was created by the Tornado born:

Right now we have 20 Stanleys and 20 Stellas  & own FitStanleyProject, FitStanley & FitStella dot com (I told you I was nuts).For now while Ren Man my team of high-powered lawyers double check we arent breaking any Flat Stanley trademarks with our homage we will be using this blog.I will be picking 40 names at random (from todays comments/ the comments on this post), tapping into the Child’s college fund (we dont need no stinkin’ education!) & mailing Stanley & Stella out this weekend.On each laminated figure is an email address.  Please snap one picture, write an 100 word post about your FIT’venture**, send to the email  and mail your FIT BUDDY onward.Yes (obviously) it’s up to YOU what you do with Stella & Stanley and how you pass him/her onward.  All I ask is you dont let them languish in your home like review items on a busy bloggers desk (ohnoshediint.  ohyesshedid.).Yes. Someday I shall be compelled to bore you with the Stella story.  Sadly it’s my blog and that’s the forced audience (until you clickclick) way I roll.  It’s an important one to me.

That’s it!

Comment here if you didnt before and would like a Fit Friend visit.

Comment here if you’re completely perplexed and long for clarification.

Comment here if you commented before and just wanna reiterate your desire.

Comment here if you wanna volunteer to pretty up the wordpress site for this misfit who’s more words than aesthetics.

I shall meet up with you in the comments below.

**Want a longer post to go with your FIT’venture? More pics to illustrate the excursion?  Feel free to link to your blog & continue the FIT’musings there!

View the original article here

Stonyfield Organic Non-Fat Frozen Yogurt Bar (After Dark Chocolate) Review

There are days when I absolutely love writing food product reviews - when I get to sample delicious, tasty treats such as Stonyfield Organic After Dark Chocolate Non-Fat Frozen Yogurt Bars ... and of course, there are the days when the kids love that I write about food products like these, because they are the ones who get to finish off the box!

NUTRITION FACTS
Serving Size: 1 bar (70 grams)
Calories: 170 calories
Total Fat: 8 grams, 12%
Saturated Fat: 1 gram, 5%
Sodium: 35 mg, 1%
Carbohydrates: 21 grams
Fiber: 1 gram, 4%
Sugars: 18 grams
Protein: 3 grams

You should know from our Stonyfield Farm reviews, that they make some of the best tasting organic yogurt around! And these frozen yogurt bars continue that tradition. They are so rich and creamy; so delicious - like lick your lips to make sure you get every crumb good! It actually tastes similar to ice cream, though after a few bites, the fro-yo taste comes out a little bit more. There's a nice, subtle dark chocolately flavor and the coating is absolutely perfect - in taste and it's crispy crunchy texture. It's hard to stop at one, but you better because it really is a perfect sized snack and you're only being greedy if you go back for more.

Each 70 gram Stonyfield Organic After Dark Chocolate Non-Fat Frozen Yogurt Bar provides 170 calories, 8 grams of total fat (8% of the daily value), 1 gram of which is saturated (5% of the DV), 18 grams of sugars, 1 gram of fiber and 3 grams of protein. The bars are organic and the ingredients list is not too long and complex.

I'm actually not sure how much these bars cost since I was sent samples to review, and I haven't seen them in my neighborhood stores yet - anyone know the price? I really like this as a summertime treat - a sweet tooth fix that won't hurt your diet too badly, but also satisfy your craving. Of course, Weight Watchers Giant Chocolate Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Bar is still my go to - will a little less calories, fat & sugar, but the Stonyfield Organic After Dark Chocolate Non-Fat Frozen Yogurt Bar has less ... complicated ingredients.

View the original article here

I Can Make You Thin: The Revolutionary System Used by More Than 3 Million People (Book and CD)

Would you like to eat whatever you want and still lose weight? Would you like to feel really happy with your body? Are you unable to lose those last 10 pounds? Do you find it difficult to say no to second helpings? Do you get disheartened about your eating habits and your weight? Then this amazing book and CD can help you! Welcome to a revolutionary way to stop overeating, control cravings and feel totally motivated to take exercise. Paul McKenna has developed a breakthrough weight-loss system that re-patterns your thoughts, attitudes and beliefs about yourself, your health and food to help you easily take control of your diet and lose weight permanently. As you use Paul's amazing system, the latest psychological techniques will automatically help you to start losing weight straight away! You can use it again and again to make you feel happier about yourself as you go all the way to your ideal shape, size and weight.

Price: $22.95

Click here to buy from Amazon

The secrets to my weight-loss maintenance (Athleta gift card giveaway).

(MizBeerThruStraw to MizAlmostRunsLikeWind.)

The longer I write about health & fitness the more I realize losing weight/getting healthy is, indeed, the easy part.

Sure it’s challenging to get started.

Yes it can be daunting to stay on our fit-paths & not veer off onto Slacker Lane or Poptarts Place.

Yet the number of emails I receive** from people (fingerquotes) at goal (unFQ) and filled with panic because they’re terrified they wont be able to maintain the loss is staggering.

Do I have all the answers? No.

Do I know what worked for me to shed 35ish pounds & keep it at bay for 17+ years? Yes.

I ate Breakfast. I began my trudge down this path never eating a morning meal, 35 pounds heavier and possessed zero muscle tone.  I started down this path approximately 17 years ago.  In 17 years Ive never once skipped breakfast.  Ever.  ‘Nuff said.It was NOT about the vessel. Before I get all it was about the inside! it was about how I felt!! on you allow me to clarify: it was initially about the outside.  It was about the fact I couldn’t fit into my interview suits and I was too damn cheap & poor to procure new ones.  That incentive, however, quickly waned.  I realized to sustain my commitment to healthful living I needed more motivation than my snazzy red skirt suit. Which led me to…I created a Fitness Mission Statement®. Simply put: this phrase captures why I do what I do in the realm of health. Precisely what I’m doing at any given time may change (from karate to kettle bells) but why has remained fairly static over the almost two decades.  Make time to sit, think, and write down exactly why you want to lose weight/maintain your weight-loss.  Specifics beyond skinny jeans or bikini-season.  If you’re stuck perhaps consider how this endeavor impacts all facets of your life and not just what’s in your closet.I chose to be healthy. I still do.  I wake each morning and recommit to the path I’ve chosen.  I take personal responsibility for the decisions I make throughout my day.  Sure they’re not always the best (Howdy aforementioned Poptart Place! Greetings Skipped Workout Blvd!) but I accept responsibility, acknowledge, & decide to choose more wisely next time.I was consistent. I am consistent.  I also consistently do less than my body is capable of doing.  I started off like a misfit a’fire and quickly overtrained.  I fell head-over-heels in love with my emerging muscles and lifted so frequently they began to grow *smaller* (go me!). It was then I realized unless I was training to compete I responded better to shorter workouts.  Brief, intense sessions leave my body craving MORE the next day—not so wrecked & sore I dread exercising again.  This consistency, and ZERO FITS & STARTS, has changed my life.  More than staying physically fit I’ve avoided the emotional beating starting & stopping healthy living does to us all.I recognized I had worth even if nothing changed. I was already enough. Whether this translated to treating myself better and helped me stay on my path is debatable, but the fact this realization has permeated & impacted every facet of my life is not. From my world of work to my inter-personal relationships I *know* I am worthy.

So there you have it.

The six tips I credit for helping me maintain my loss for 17 years without a slip or sliiiiiiiide back into old habits.

Ever.

Now you.

Whether you’ve been on your journey for one day or a thousand I’m confident you’ve picked up a trick or three.

What’s the biggest!thing! you’ve learned thus far?

You may be entered to win an 100.00 gift card to Athleta for the lowlow cost of your best healthy living tip below.

I know I cheered when Athleta was founded (five long years into my healthy living journey) as I adored both the apparel they sold and the fit, *strong*, powerful looking women represented in their catalog’s pages.

USA only. Winner announced 6.27.11

**And interview requests. Here’s where I unapologetically link my snippet on Yahoo! homepage as unless I tweet my privates or get me a reality show I may never make it there again.

View the original article here

In Memory of Sgt. Joseph Garrison, Whom I Never Met, But I Owe

I hated someone once. The feeling was so deep and raw that it threatened to incinerate my heart and leave it in ashes just above my belly button. The feeling lasted for a moment, no longer, because it was so heavy and difficult to hang on to that if I’d surrendered to the pain, it would have left a scar so deep that plastic surgery couldn’t have fixed my heart to the way it was before.

The gift within that moment of burning clarity was the knowledge that the pain was my own damn fault.

Not God’s.

I never met Marine Sgt. Joseph Garrison, but on Thursday I stood outside the church in which his funeral was held, ready as best I could to make sure hate didn’t permeate the walls of the stone structure in which his family and friends mourned in the way we all deserve to mourn: in peace.

Garrison, 27, died June 6 when a road-side bomb went off near his vehicle in Helmend, Afghanistan. He was a local boy, the friend of a friend of my daughter’s, and the son of parents I knew remotely through this connection and that. Western Pennsylvania, like all the other parts of this county, raises up some mighty compassionate, dedicated children. The kind who wake us up to what’s really important.

The folks at Westboro Baptist Church threatened to bring their cardboard signs of hate to Joey Garrison’s funeral Thursday. They wanted to use his death to forward their message that God hates homosexuals and therefore kills those who serve in the military in defense of our homosexual-tolerating country…or at least that’s what I’ve been able to cull from their convoluted postings on their website.

I grew up Lutheran. Went to a Lutheran grade school, and graduated from a Lutheran college with a minor in theology. While I’m not a practicing Lutheran right now, I know Lutherans make the best church coffee ever AND they know the Bible. Individual Lutherans might not always interpret the scriptures the same, but we’re usually in the same theological boat. God’s cool, he’s mellowed with age, and while he created us in all our messiness, we still believe (yes, even me, despite my spiritual meandering the last 15 years) he loves us just the same.

There are many instances in the Bible in which God got mad. Really mad. He threw a LOT of tantrums. Flood, anyone? And while I’m pretty sure surging water wasn’t the best solution to his problem at that moment, God's anger personifies real feelings we all experience at some point in our lives. God knows mad. But he also knows tolerance. That’s in the Bible, too.
There was an undercurrent of apprehension, volatility, anger, incomprehensiveness, sorrow, tolerance and genuine love at Joey Garrison’s funeral. The feelings were there in the counter protestors' signs, in the flags held by the veterans – young and old – and in the hearts of the Patriot Guard Riders, who stood ready to defend against anyone who got in the way of Joey Garrison’s ride from church to cemetery.

I was at the funeral in Distant, PA, with friends; one who knew Joey and one whose son wants more than anything to be in the Air Force. Her niece was there, too. She stood quiet and alone much of the time, pondering, no doubt, the fact that her husband is in the military, training in California for what will most likely be a tour to a war zone.

We’ve not, as a nation, been asked to sacrifice much except our military personnel to the wars we’ve been fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. It’s not like World War II when citizens bought war bonds and planted victory gardens and collected steel and rubber and asked its women to work in factories dominated by a male work force but who were now fighting a war. We are disconnected in so many ways, living these wars through reports that we can ignore simply by muting the TV or turning the page of our newspapers and magazines.

But attending a military funeral – even if it’s to stand outside ready to deny access to someone who wants to disrupt mourning with hate – is something every American citizen should do. We should all listen to the bagpipes and watch as a soldier’s casket is lowered into the hearse by pall bearers dressed in their uniforms, knowing it could be them being buried that day. We should all feel the weight of the grief of the families and hear, through the looks in everyone’s eyes, the burning question, “Why?”

I've never felt as connected to my citizenship as I did last week. I didn’t realize how the gravity of the responsibility of our citizenship is so often lost in the very freedoms in which we move.

I am sorry for the folks at WBC who harbor, cling to and profess such hatred and anger. I can’t imagine what it’s like to live with a yolk of cement tied to my heart every day.

But more than sorrow, I am proud to be a citizen of the United States of America. And I thank God – the very God who I’m sure still rolls his eyes and wonders what the heck this world is doing to itself – that there are folks like Joey Garrison who work every day to defend me and my sorry ass views.

Thank you, all of you, who serve and have served our country in the military and as civilians. We might not always have our crap together, but I refuse to believe we are forsaken by hate.

Peace. Namaste.

View the original article here

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Phenom Mega V Coconut Water (Orange Guava Passion) Review

The 2 other flavors of Phenom Coconut Water that I've tried have been a lot less than phenomenal, in fact Phenom Mega V Pineapple Punch Coconut Water and Phenom Energy Acai Peach Coconut Water have tasted pretty awful. BUT, I had another flavor left to try, the Orange Guava Passion, and I was hoping that this would be the one to redeem the Phenom name.

NUTRITION FACTS
Serving Size: 8 ounces
Calories: 45
Total Fat: 0%
Saturated Fat: 0%
Sodium: 150 mg, 6%
Carbohydrates: 10 grams
Fiber: 0%
Sugars: 7 grams
Protein: 0 grams

What I found that wouldn't exactly classify this as fantastic, it was ... okay, pleasant even - at least I finished the entire bottle which is more than I can say with the other 2 varieties that I tried. The coconut water flavor is very dominant, with a hint of the other flavors coming through more in the aroma, and it's not too sweet.

Each 8 ounce serving of the vitamin and mineral fortified Phenom Mega V Orange Guava Passion Coconut Water provides 45 calories and 7 grams of sugars. There is also 100% of the daily value for vitamin C, 50% for manganese and 10% of the DV for quite a few other vitamins & minerals. The ingredient list starts with water and coconut water concentrate, and it also includes the sweetener reb A (also known as stevia).

View the original article here

Snow Natural Soda + Vitamins (Cranberry Pomraz) Review

I was looking around the grocery store the other day, when I came across Snow Natural Soda + Vitamins. I was fascinated by the marketing as I hadn't come across this before, so I took home the Cranberry Pomraz flavor. From the website ... Snow Natural Soda + Vitamins - all the fun, exuberance and delicious indulgence of soda without any of the unhealthy ingredients.

NUTRITION FACTS
Serving Size: 1 container (12 ounces)
Calories: 115
Total Fat: 0%
Saturated Fat: 0%
Sodium: 0%
Carbohydrates: 31 grams
Fiber: 0%
Sugars: 31 grams
Protein: 0 grams

Each 12 ounce container provides 115 calories from 31 grams of sugars. There is also 15% of the daily value for vitamins B3, B5, B6 and B12 ... need I say that you really don't need to be drinking this for the vitamins?! But the taste is pretty good - it's like a sweet, fruity soda.

The ingredients list includes pure filtered and lightly carbonated water, natural cane sugar, natural cranberry flavor, natural pomegranate flavor, natural raspberry flavor, other natural flavors, citric acid, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), sodium citrate, niacin (vitamin B3), pantthenic acid (B5), pyridoxine hydrochloride (B6) and cyanocobalamin (B12).

View the original article here

Lightlife Smart Cutlets (Original) Review

I received a few samples of Lightlife Smart Cutlets (which are vegetarian - faux meat if you will), for review, and they have been making it easier to have Meatless Mondays for the family. I've already reviewed the LightLife Spicy Sweet & Sour Smart Cutlets was pretty decent, so let me tell you about the Original Lightlife Smart Cutlets.

NUTRITION FACTS
Serving Size: 1 cutlet (85 grams)
Calories: 110
Total Fat: 0.5 gram, 1%
Saturated Fat: 0%
Sodium: 360 mg, 15%
Carbohydrates: 8 grams
Fiber: 3 grams, 12%
Sugars: < 1 gram
Protein: 17 grams

I followed the directions for doing it on the stove-top, but then got impatient and finished it up in the microwave - I was really hungry! First, I tried it as it - without any condiment enhancement. The texture was thick and ... meaty ... but without the meaty taste. In fact, the taste is sort of wheaty/ soy-ish - not really something I would eat by itself. I made a sandwich with it however, and doused in ketchup and Annie's Naturals Organic Honey Mustard - it was delicious. A pretty good way to get 17 grams of protein with very little fat.

Each of the Lightlife Smart Cutlets (Original) (85 grams) provides 110 calories, 0.5 grams of total fat, 360 mg of sodium (15% of the daily value), 3 grams of fiber (12% of the DV), 17 grams of protein and less than 1 gram of sugars. The ingredients are, water, textured soy protein concentrate, wheat gluten, wheat starch, egg white powder, less than 2% of: yeast extract, cellulose gum, tapioca starch, potato starch, sea salt, natural flavor, salt, canola oil, sunflower oil.

A box with 2 cutlets costs $3.99 at my local grocery store, and I would buy this in the future - not to eat by itself - it definitely needs some seasoning, spices or condiments to enhance the flavor.

{Website: Lightlife}

View the original article here

Sex and the City - The Complete Second Season [VHS]

A smart and savvy (albeit highly stylized) look at the single lives of four thirtysomething Manhattan women, Sex and the City: The Complete Second Season builds on the foundation of its first season with plot arcs that are both hilarious and heartfelt, taking the show from breakout hit to true pop-culture phenomenon. Relationship epiphanies coexist happily alongside farcical plots and zingy one-liners, resulting in emotionally satisfying episodes that feature the sharp kind of character-defining dialogue that seems to have disappeared from the rest of TV long ago. When last we left the NYC gals, Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) had just broken up with a commitment-phobic Mr. Big (Chris Noth), but fans of Noth's seductive-yet-distant rake didn't have to wait long until he was back in the picture, as he and Carrie tried to make another go of it. Their relationship evolution, from reunion to second breakup, provides the core of the second season. The fittingly titled and keenly observed episode "Evolution" found Carrie trying to leave a few feminine belongings at Mr. Big's apartment with little success, charting the challenges and limits of intimacy. And the season's finale, "Ex and the City," was a melancholy goodbye for Carrie and Big that took its cue from The Way We Were. It wasn't all angst, though: among other adventures, Charlotte (Kristin Davis) puzzles over whether one of her beaus was "gay-straight" or "straight-gay"; Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) tries to date a guy who insists on having sex only in places where they might get caught; and Samantha (the exquisite Kim Cattrall) copes with dates who range from, um, not big enough to far too big--with numerous stops in between. Through it all, the four actresses cohered into a solid ensemble that played on their complex relationships among themselves as well as with men; in two short years, Parker and company became one of the best TV casts in over a decade. And to top it all off, the second season offers 18 episodes, six more than the first. Sometimes size really can make a difference! --Mark Englehart

Price: $49.98

Click here to buy from Amazon

Onkyo HT-S7400 5.1-Channel Network A/V Receiver/Speaker Package

Onkyo's HT-S7400 includes everything you need to get started on a great home theater setup. An impressive receiver supports the latest audio and video standards for a much better movie experience than you'll get from most all-in-one systems. It's even network-ready! Meanwhile, the 5.1-channel included speaker setup offers seriously impressive sound. If it's quality you're after, this is the HTIB for you!

Price: $799.00

Click here to buy from Amazon

Zen and the Art of Bicycle Maintenance

“Like those in the valley behind us, most people stand in sight of the spiritual mountains all their lives and never enter them, being content to listen to others who have been there and thus avoid the hardships.” From Zen and the Art Of Motorcycle Maintenance Biking is a “spiritual mountain” to me, but I’m not content, as the quote above contends, to merely stand in the sight of that mountain. I understand the importance of listening to others who’ve been there to learn how I might avoid some of the hardships. It occurred to me while riding the last leg of the Butler-Freeport Trail alone last week – having ridden six miles more than I planned and being very hungry but having no food with me and still nine miles from my car when I ran over a rock that I thought punctured my tire but didn’t – that perhaps…perhaps…I should learn something about bike maintenance.

Lori (whom many of you know from Finding Radiance) is an avid biker and is my go-to guru with all things biking. I asked her recently what she takes along with her when she rides and how I might go about seeking advice on bicycle maintenance.

“First off, if you are by yourself the one thing you should do is tell someone where you are going – or at least close to the general vicinity. (Note from Lynn: I always text a friend or my daughter when I start and let them know my ETA from the trailhead back to the Jeep. They know if they don’t hear from me within 20 minutes of that ETA to come find me.)

“I have a bike bag on the back of my bike. I always take:

“Cell phone; spare tube; small hand pump (or CO2 cartridge inflaters); tire lifters (small plastic wedges to remove tires); something like hard candy in case I am out too long; water. For long rides, I also include: a bike lock; food; sunscreen; anti-chafing cream; hand sanitizer; chain lube.

“I would also practice taking off your tire at home so that if it happens in the field, it won't be the first time. Most bike shops will have free classes on tire changing and maintenance, so definitely check them out!

I Googled bike shops in my area and found Michael’s Cycles: “Independent shop on the outskirts of town… We are a small, family-run business that treats everyone to courteous service. One of the biggest complaints we hear about bike shops is that if you aren't wearing spandex, you get ignored. Well, not here.” I knew this was a place I wanted to check out, so after a sweaty 2-mile hike in 88-degree heat through horse- and deer-fly infested woods, I went to Michael’s Cycles. A good sweat makes me more confident, and I knew that I needed all the confidence I could muster because whenever I set out to do this kind of thing alone, my FFG (former fat girl) comes along for the ride, keeping me just off balance enough that I feel a nagging sense of self-doubt.
It was just my luck that when I pulled into the parking lot, a young man was putting a bike rack on the top of a male customer’s car. I like men, but their Y chromosome makes me nervous. It’s one of those self-instilled FFG reactions/assumptions I fight all the time: I’ll be judged/stared at/laughed at/ignored.
The customer was sweaty, like he'd just been on a ride. He was about my age and, of course, nice looking. But I bucked up and walked across the lot. ‘I am responsible for how I allow myself to be treated,’ I told myself. ‘You are a woman who bikes, not a woman with baggage.’
As I approached them, the young man looked down from the bike rack and smiled. “Hi! What can I help you with?”
“Well,” I said. “I used to bike with someone but I don’t anymore. I need to know some things about bike maintenance. Do you guys do that kind of thing?”
“Oh heck, yeah!” he said. “I’m Kyle. If you’ve got some time right now, I’ll show you how to change your tire when I’m done here.”
“I have an appointment this afternoon, but are you around tomorrow?” I asked.
“Yeah, after 12,” he said, jumping off the top of the customer’s car. “I’ll get you a card.”
As he walked into the shop, I turned to the customer and apologized for taking Kyle away from his bike rack installation. The man smiled and said it was no problem and asked if I’d heard of the Butler-Freeport Trail. ‘Yay!’ I thought. ‘Common ground!’ Any insecurities I had melted away as he talked to me as a person who bikes, not a person who was formerly overweight or even who had sweaty gross hair. I felt on equal ground. That hasn’t happened very often in my obese or even in my formerly obese life. It’s not because of other people; it’s because of me and how I allow my FFG to throw me off balance.
The next day, I took my bike to the shop and Kyle showed me how to change a tube and gave me tips on maintenance. I am now the proud owner of a 700 x 35-40 inner tube, 3 tire levers, a portable air pump (which Kyle mounted on my bike) and a primo pressure gauge that works with both Schrader and Presta valves (and I know what each of them is…*grin*).
"In a car you're always in a compartment, and because you're used to it you don't realize that through that car window everything you see is just more TV. You're a passive observer and it is all moving by you boringly in a frame. On a cycle the frame is gone. You're completely in contact with it all. You're in the scene, not just watching it anymore, and the sense of presence is overwhelming."
I’ve spent too much time avoiding that which scares me. Moving forward in spite of my fears and not waiting for them to dissolve, I’ve discovered the beauty of self-empowerment. Not only do I learn something – a concrete skill or something about myself – I change something about myself. Not a bad way to spend a life. In what ways are you “in the scene” and not “just watching it anymore”?  

View the original article here

It's DVD Giveaway Time Again! (another Cassie review inside :))

I’m giving over the blog today to daughter Cassie, who reviews Tracey Mallett’s “Pilates Super Sculpt” and her friend Jessica, who reviews Patricia Friberg’s “Belly Beautiful Workout: Prenatal/Pregnancy.”
You know the routine. If you want to throw your name in the hat to win one of these DVDs, leave a comment below or shoot me an email at lynn.haraldson@gmail.com. I’ll draw a winner on Wednesday, June 15.

Belly Beautiful Workout with Patricia Friberg

Reviewer Jessica is a 26-year-old new mother living in Shreveport, Louisiana. Her daughter, Sarah, is two months old. Getting back into shape post-baby means taking long morning strolls with her little girl and doing some regular light strength training to get her arms and legs in baby lifting shape! She documents-her family life and travels at http://www.leelafish.com/.

"Belly Beautiful" is a post-natal DVD has several short workouts, each designed for different stages of post-partum strength. It took me a while to complete this DVD because I thought I had to have an exercise ball, and let’s face it, a new mom doesn’t have much time to go exercise equipment shopping. However, after watching a bit I discovered that a pillow works in its place just fine.

Abdominal Rehab: This workout is great for easing back into exercise. It focuses on basic, controlled movements to boost strength and help repair your pelvic floor. This short workout helps prepare for other, more challenging workouts on the DVD.
Baby and Me Workout: This is similar to the abdominal rehab, but requires more strength. While it touts that it is a workout you can do “with your baby,” only the first five minutes or so actually involve baby, the rest of the time she kind of lets the baby play around her while she works out. I personally found that my two-month-old got tired of it rather quickly, so I put her down for a nap and finished the routine. This particular routine really focuses on your glutes with a little bit of arm and ab toning.

Toning Workout: This was by far my favorite workout. It was one of the longer ones. Using your exercise ball (or pillow) for support, Patricia takes you through toning exercises for the hips, glutes, abs, calves and arms that build in intensity as the workout goes on. She gives options for different strength levels, which makes this one great for about 6 weeks+ post partum.

Busy Mom Bootcamp: You need to be feeling stronger when you attempt this one. As Patricia says, “this is good for when you’re sleeping through the night.” Lots of short cardio bursts and lots and lots of different lunges. I was winded after several minutes into it, but felt great (and sore!) afterward.

Rejuvenation Stretch: These stretches allude to yoga and slowly allow you to stretch each muscle of your body, allowing for a great cool down.

Diastasis Recti: This short segment explains what happens to your ab muscles during and after pregnancy and how to tell if your muscles are still separated. She gives you a few tips on exercises to avoid or modify if your abs are still recovering.

What I loved: Workout leader Patricia Friberg is real. You can tell by looking at her that she has had a baby, but she is still in great shape! Each workout is short, about 10-15 minutes, so you can get a quick one in while baby naps, or you can string several together to get in a long, tough workout. It really focuses on repairing the areas that are weak after childbirth (abs, pelvic floor) and strengthening the muscles you need to take care of baby now (arms and legs).

What I wasn’t crazy about: The “baby and me” title is a bit misleading, and your baby needs to be just the right age for this workout to be effective (between 3 and 6 months).

Overall, I think this was a great video for easing back into exercise and toning those muscles weak from pregnancy. It definitely helps rebuild strength and made me feel good after I completed it!
----------------------------------

Tracey Mallett "Pilates Super Sculpt"

To say I loved this DVD would be an understatement. I actually had a dream about it the night after I first did it, and when I woke up the next morning, I promptly did the video again.
The DVD is about an hour long, but it is so seamless, it just flew by. The instructor, Tracey Mallett, is very calm and relaxing. She also has a killer accent.

It's broken down into six segments, all about 10 minutes long, give or take a few seconds. There's a warm up, a classic Pilates ab segment, oblique and buns sculpt, legs and thigh burn, total body challenge and a flexibility segment all while using a ball. I loved them all.

My favorite, however, would be the legs and thigh burn. In it, there's a frog movement in which you lay on your back with the ball placed under your tailbone. Flexing both legs outward, you bring both feet together, simulating frog legs. It is an amazing stretch. Just make sure your blinds are pulled, because otherwise it'd get the neighbors talking.
Most of the work is done laying on the ground, so I'd suggest you use a mat. I relied on my carpet as a buffer and now I have a bruised tailbone. Also, you need a ball for this routine. I used my daughter's playground ball, but this lead to a tantrum. So I'd suggest that you buy one of your own. Something like you'd see at the grocery store in those large wire bins. You also need to be able to grip it with one hand, so make sure that it's not over inflated and not incredibly smooth.

It is recommended on the site that it's for advanced beginners and up, but what is an advanced beginner anyway? We all have to start somewhere. Might as well be here and now with this DVD. (I'm seriously not getting paid to say any of this.) In my opinion it is perfect for people of all fitness levels and joint ability. There's only one part that puts heavy strain on your wrists, and that's in the Total Body Challenge in which you do walk out pushups. That's the only bit of upper body training you'll get in this DVD, however. That's fine with me, because I do most of my arm work at the gym, but I know a lot of people rely on that in a workout DVD. So please note that.

Now, don't get me wrong, this is tough. There are several simple moves, but every so often she'll throw in one that'll have your muscles shaking. At least mine were. There are a lot of classic Pilates moves thrown in, such as the teaser sequence, but then there's a lot of original moves as well that specifically targeted all the problem areas I have. And if I'm like most women, that would include saddlebags, love handles and lower belly pooch. It hits them all.

Best part of all, the next morning I wasn't the slightest bit sore. I felt stretched and strong. That's the beauty of Pilates. It works you out, makes you tired and leaves you more beautiful than before you started.

You want to win this. I want you to win this. And if you don't win it, I want you to go out with your hard earned money and buy it. I'm serious. It's amazing. In fact, it's in my Amazon.com shopping cart as we speak. (Because I'm seriously not getting paid to say this.) This workout just blew me away with how it was both challenging and efficient. I don't like to waste my time with lame workouts, and with three kids that's not an option. I want to get the most out of my workout and I did with this one. Truly.

View the original article here

Monday, June 27, 2011

5 Steps I took towards Re-Prioritizing Today

As I said yesterday, it’s time to refocus. I’m tired of feeling stressed and overwhelmed, so today I took a few steps in the right direction.

Step 1: I Went for a Run

At 6 AM I was lying awake in bed, trying to sleep but failing miserably. I just knew the baby would be up within the hour to eat, and my brain wouldn’t shut down. Then it hit me–I could RUN! Why not? It would be a great way to start the day. All I needed was 20 minutes. If the baby woke up, the Husband could handle it.

So I strapped on my sneaks and headed out. It. was. AWESOME. I ran 2 miles in about 23 minutes. When I got back the baby was just starting to stir. I doubt I’ll be able to do this every day but I can react to the baby’s schedule and find time for myself. Running is something I like to do. It’s something I want to do. I need to find time for it, for me.

Step 2: Reduced my workload

I recently took on some additional blogging responsibilities for babble. I’ve been having fun sharing Little Bean on Baby’s First Year, and the company asked if I’d be willing to write more for them. I said yes, but it was simply too much. This morning I wrote them and said I would have to walk away from the other opportunity.

It felt good to relieve myself of a responsibility. I need to learn to say "no" more.

Step 3: Focus on healthy food and having fun in the kitchen

I’ve been eating mindlessly too much. Trying new foods and having fun in the kitchen helps me refocus on the food front. Today I scanned the pantry and took advantage of my herb garden, making Chickpea and Tomato Salad with Fresh Basil. It was DIVINE! I need to remember this the next time the husband temps me with an eating out request.

Step 4: Sleep IS Important.

Today I took a nap when the baby was napping. It was hard for me to do with an overflowing inbox and a messy kitchen, but I did it. It’s not healthy to live on 4-5 hours of sleep a day. Sleep is just as important as eating right and staying active. I need to respect it more.

Step 5: I Kept a Food Journal

Food journaling has helped me in so many ways. It’s an easy way for me to be more conscious of my choices, as I do have a habit of mindlessness munching. I’m committing to it for at least a week.

Here’s today’s journal.

Uncle Sams with almond milk and blueberriesFUN snack. Will post video of us making tomorrowHad fun with lunch! Wanting something fun and filling. I had a request from the little guy for more fruit. I had to comply. :)Burger on a whole wheat with all the fixins except cheese, a side of Spiced Sweet Potato and some cut raw veggies2 mile run + a walk to the library with the kidswater could have been better. Taking my vitamins now before bed.

View the original article here

Thursday, June 16, 2011

A 4 Picture Word-less Wednesday

I saw this at the grocery store today. Seriously? The only thing I can say is at least they are calling a spade a spade.

That’s me and the boys this Mother’s Day. I had a bit of a meltdown this morning and wrote this. I feel better and pretty much took the day off trying to catch up on sleep.

That’s a shot from a new recipe I’m working on for GreenLiteBites. I’m not ready to post it yet. Should be up by tomorrow night. Delish!

And finally. My EVIL cat. I posted the full picture on PoopButterflies. Just look at her.. it’s like she’s plotting the destruction of the universe.

I just didn’t have it in me to keep the food journal. I need sleep. Now.

View the original article here

Truckload Pie Sale? Yes, For Real

Frivolous Demands:
*Subscribe to the blog
*Follow me on Twittah
*Like me on Facebook
*YouTube my videos

Last workout, 6/9/11: Legs and abs (morning), 1.5 mile speed walk (on lunch break). Click here to view my daily training log, plus workout tips and fitness product recommendations.

—————————————-

Grab some Shakeology in my Beachbody shop.

Shakeology is a complete meal (shake) developed by Beachbody, the makers of P90X. It contains 16-18 grams of protein and 140 calories per serving. The shake will help you lose weight, reduce cravings, improve digestion, and lower cholesterol. It can also improve stamina and libido, alleviate hormonal issues (including menopause-related), aid memory, support immune function and boost serotonin levels to improve mood and symptoms of depression, while also reducing the symptoms of high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis.

Shakeology 30-Day Recipe Calendars

Chocolate and Greenberry nutrition labels.

90 Days of Shakeology: My Experiment

Shakeology money back guarantee.

If you’re passionate about helping people achieve their fitness goals and you’re committed to achieving financial independence, contact me now about becoming a Beachbody Coach.
—————————————-

Sponsored YUM! & Partners

Strengthen your core for the summer with a new exercise ball.

Get the facts on Slimfast weight loss.

My Lifestyle Diet

Florida Drug Treatment

Become a Sponsor .

—————————————-

Full Disclosure regarding paid advertisements, affiliate links and product reviews. .

.

View the original article here

Chocolate Honey Cakes! (My Toast Ambassador Contest Entry)

Why slave in the kitchen with mixing bowls, a hot oven, impatient baking times and a ton of dirty dishes when you can make “cake” in about 5 minutes from prep time to chewing time with minimal kitchen duty. This is a Toast-Off, baby!

Chocolate Honey Cakes is my recipe contest entry.

The I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter!® peeps invited me to participate in their Toast-Off to become their Toast Ambassador and score all the winner’s swag that comes with it, including $5,000 cash [insert jaw drop to floor here]! Now let your eyeballs read on to find out why I chose this recipe for the Toast-Off and learn how to “bake” it yourself.

The Inside Story Behind Chocolate Honey Cakes

I struggle in the kitchen. This is no secret, yet I have no shame in admitting my hungry shortcomings.

But wait!

Every once in a while when the pigs are outside flying, I hit a recipe home run that makes me want to back twist and belly flip from one end of the kitchen to the other (but please, people, do not try that at home).

Cake has always been a soft spot of my greedy-in-moderation joy. I happen to be the only person I know to participate in a one woman, cake-eating competition (eh-em, which I won, of course). And as for toast? Growing up, my nickname was “Bread”, so my intrigue with loaves and toasts smathered in buttery-tasting goodness is not some mythical folklore, okay?

Chocolate Honey Cakes is my tribute to the things that I love: Cake, toasty bread and buttery-tasting goodness. But there’s one other thing that I adore. It’s the reaction of my husband and our 4 child-spawns as their dessert-craving jaws chomp down on this delectable treat. Their faces become contorted with happy joy as they savor the feast and finally compliment me on my cooking.

Whew! I’m really lovin’ it.

CHOCOLATE HONEY CAKES: THE RECIPE

Utensils/Equipment Needed: Toaster, cutting board, butter knife, Chef’s knife (or substitute butter knife), measuring spoons, serving plate, and fork(s) – to help you feed your food trap this delectable creation.

INGREDIENTS (serving size: 2)

3 slices cinnamon-raisin bread (such as Pepperidge Farms)3 teaspoons honey1.5 teaspoons I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter!® Whipped and Creamy1.5 tablespoons milk chocolate morsels3 pinches cocoa powder (1 pinch = approx. 1/8 teaspoon)

DIRECTIONS

Toast bread on medium setting (please do not use “crispy-charred” toaster setting).Stack toasted slices and cut off all 4 edges using Chef’s knife or butter knife.Spread 1/2 teaspoon of I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter!® Whipped and Creamy onto each toasted slice. Whipped and Creamy is preferred because of its creamy, fluffy texture. It definitely enhances the complete dish.

*Now it’s time to “bake” your cake made of toasted, buttery-tastin’ bread slices (aka, the “cake layers”)

Transfer first “cake layer” to your serving plate.Sprinkle with 1 pinch of cocoa powder.Now drizzle on 1 tsp. honey.Add second cake layer and repeat process of 1 pinch cocoa powder and 1 tsp. honey.Add final cake layer. Repeat once more with 1 pinch cocoa powder and 1 tsp. honey.Finally, top with chocolate morsels.Cut into your finished cake with a fork and being to chew.

IMPORTANT NOTES

As you sprinkle the cocoa and drizzle the honey, be artistic about it – allow some of the cocoa and honey to be disbursed onto the plate itself to enhance your presentation AND for sopping the toasted bread around the plate once it’s on your fork. Mmmmm!It’s highly recommended that you build your cake layers immediately while the toast is still warm so the chocolate morsels will melt nicely on top.

[click on image to enlarge and activate mouth-watering delight]

Disclosure: This post was required as part of my I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter!® Toast Ambassador contest entry. But contest or not, go on and make this at home so your own face can contort with happy joy, too. I’m so glad to share this recipe with you all. Enjoy!

View the original article here

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)