tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81673726381616424012024-02-08T12:47:47.424-08:00Weight Loss SecretsHaohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.comBlogger3427125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-63594874055604740592013-12-09T07:25:00.000-08:002013-12-09T07:25:00.830-08:00My Thanksgiving Week Mantra… <IMG class="align center size-full wp-image-20039" alt=wycwyc_small src="/wycwycsmall.jpg" width=550 height=367><P>You guys are going to get tired of me saying it but…</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>W</STRONG>hat <STRONG>Y</STRONG>ou <STRONG>C</STRONG>an <STRONG>W</STRONG>hen <STRONG>Y</STRONG>ou <STRONG>C</STRONG>an!</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>Or as I now refer to as #wycwyc — pronounced “Wick Wick</EM>“</P><P>If you missed <A title="The #WYCWYC Challenge" href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/09/the-wycwyc-challenge.html">my original #wycwyc challenge, I posted it in September</A> and it has really stuck with me.</P><P>Actually, if I’m being honest, it has spread in my brain like a virus.</P><P>Yesterday I splurged on a giant cookie after my <A title="A 2-Word Sensational Sunday!" href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/11/a-2-word-sensational-sunday.html">gym’s fundraiser</A>. It was one of those M&M-topped monstrosities about the size of my head. I thought I’d be good with just a taste, but before I knew it, the cookie was gone</EM>.</P><P>About an hour later (probably the result of the sugar) I had an insatiable urge to just grab something</EM> out of the pantry. I was tired — NOT hungry — and the only thing that kept popping in my head were chips, crackers and pretzels.</P><P>As I walked past the pantry door I caught myself saying aloud, “Wick Wick</EM>” and walking away. Then I did what I do and <A href="https://www.facebook.com/RonisWeigh" target="_blank">posted about it on Facebook.</A></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P>My what I can when I can moment right now is NOT grabbing something out of the pantry just cause I ate a cookie the size of my head. <A href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/wycwyc">#wycwyc</A></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>And this is it, THIS is the power of #wycwyc. It’s a state of consciousnesses that can help stop the all or nothing mentality in its tracks.</P><P><STRONG>Don’t throw away the day because you ate a cookie. Do what you can when you can moving forward! Sitting all day at work? Take the stairs every chance you get! Eating out with friends? Order soup and see if someone wants to share an entree! And my current favorite… Can’t make it to the gym during the crazy holiday week? Do what you can when you can and get the family out <A href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/10/ronis-virtual-turkey-trot.html" target="_blank">for a walk on Thanksgiving</A>! :) </STRONG></P><P>The most satisfying and motivational part of the #wycwyc challenge is seeing other people adopting this mentality. My friend <A href="http://mizfitonline.com/" target="_blank">Carla, aka MizFitOnline</A>, is the one who sent me that shirt in the above photo. She also ordered one for herself.</P><IMG class="align center wp-image-20040" alt="carla wycwyc" src="/Screen-Shot-2013-11-25-at-120258-PM.png" width=550><P>Just today she said her and her 7-year-old daughter say it to each other now. How cool is that?!</P><P>And I’m seeing more and more folks <A href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23wycwyc" target="_blank">use it on Twitter</A> and <A href="http://web.stagram.com/tag/wycwyc/" target="_blank">Instagram</A> too!</P><P>I don’t want to get ahead of myself but do you remember when Carla and I wrote a <A title="The Hook is… There is no Hook! " href="http://ronisweigh.com/2012/05/the-hook-is-there-is-no-hook.html" target="_blank">book proposal and all the feedback we got was, you have no hook</A>! Well, maybe THIS is our hook. We’ve been working on a few ideas and I’m really excited about motivating people to make positive changes that help them reach their goals. I’m so over traditional “diet” books. We keep focusing on the what to eat and how to move, when really, most people know that stuff. It’s putting it into practice day in and day out that gets ignored and as a recovering yo-yo dieter #wycwyc is the best way I can sum up my change in attitude and approach.</P><P>Even though I need another site like I need a hole in my head, this geek already set up <A href="http://wycwyc.com/" target="_blank">wycwyc.com</A>. I’m thinking it could be a fun way to pull all the stuff people post on social media! We’ll see.</P><br /><p><a href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/11/my-thanksgiving-week-mantra.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-30948608035612012872013-12-09T03:52:00.000-08:002013-12-09T03:52:00.411-08:00Unapologetically Myself (musings on self-confidence). <A id=dd_start></A><IMG title="Unapologetically Myself (musings on self confidence)." class="size-medium wp-image-5309" alt="004 225x300 Unapologetically Myself (musings on self confidence)." src="/004-225x300.jpg" width=225 height=300> <STRONG>this is all I want for her</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Because I like to surround myself with the young-folk I have number of friends who turn forty this year.</STRONG></P><P>(it blows my mind <A title="Miz is FORTY!" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2009/07/17/first-person-friday-giveaway-post/" target="_blank">I had this blog when I turned forty</A>. please to take said disbelief as foreshadowing of shifts to MizFitCome.)</EM></P><P><STRONG>Because <A title="Ive declared INTROVERT status." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/07/08/ive-declared-introvert-status/" target="_blank">Im a semi-INTROVERT</A> who shuns the small talk– we’ve had myriad <A title="Is old talk the new fat talk?" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/07/31/is-old-talk-the-new-fat-talk/" target="_blank">conversations about aging</A>, changing life perspective & goals we have for time that’s left.<BR></STRONG></P><P>In all of these conversations Ive found myself in the role of Oprah.</P><P>I play annoying-Oprah. The Oprah who *repeatedly* shares how much better life is after 40.</P><P>(Im misfit enough to say this irritated me in my 30s</EM>. It felt condescending. Im certain, in my over-zealousness to convey the same sentiment, I potentially sound condescending. Im now such a fervent believer I cannot help myself.)</EM></P><IMG title="Unapologetically Myself (musings on self confidence)." class="size-medium wp-image-4727" alt="004 225x300 Unapologetically Myself (musings on self confidence)." src="/004-225x300.jpg" width=225 height=300> <STRONG>40 is not afraid to live this out loud.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>I also share with my friends a musing from <A title="Francis McDormand" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frances_McDormand" target="_blank">Francis McDormand </A></STRONG> (paraphrasing).</P><P>She (essentially) said <STRONG>40 was no longer being ‘checked out’ by the young boys & 40 rocked because she no longer saw herself through their eyes.</STRONG></P><IMG title="Unapologetically Myself (musings on self confidence)." class="size-medium wp-image-16708" alt="229399 10151437980389466 1722834571 n 300x300 Unapologetically Myself (musings on self confidence)." src="/229399101514379803894661722834571n-300x300.jpg" width=300 height=300> <STRONG>Only my eyes matter.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Im not sure if it is because life feels too short to fret about what others think</STRONG><STRONG>?</STRONG><STRONG><BR></STRONG></P><P>(I came to that early in life)</P><P><STRONG>Or because turning 40 is a nudge toward What are you waiting for?! If you dont embrace & love *you* how will anyone</EM> else?!</EM> </STRONG><STRONG></STRONG></P><P>(<A title="15 yrs ago. In the basement of a jail." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/01/10/15-yrs-ago-in-the-basement-of-a-jail/" target="_blank">I was late to marry</A>. I waited until I came to that notion.)<STRONG></STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Or just because it’s too damn exhausting to try & be anyone else other than who you are</STRONG><STRONG>?</STRONG></P><P>(Thats me. Thats why <A title="What’s your brand saying?" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/08/19/whats-your-brand-saying/" target="_blank">my online brand</A> wholly meshes with who I am offline, too.)<STRONG></STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Regardless, it was right before turning 40 <A title="what is UNAPOLOGETICALLY MYSELF" href="http://mizfitonline.com/unapologetically-myselfi-am-my-own-superhero/" target="_blank">I finally captured in two words</A> what I longed to convey to others.</STRONG></P><P><IMG title="Unapologetically Myself (musings on self confidence)." class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1800" alt="myself4 Unapologetically Myself (musings on self confidence)." src="/myself4.jpg" width=240 height=240></P><P><A title="Im Unapologetically Myself." href="http://mizfitonline.com/unapologetically-myselfi-am-my-own-superhero/" target="_blank">It’s what I am</A>.</P><P>It’s <A title="What I want for my child." href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g1xpI3GITg" target="_blank">what I want for my child</A>.</P><P><STRONG>It’s what Ive found myself repeatedly <STRONG>explaining</STRONG> recently to <A title="My social media love story." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/11/21/my-social-media-love-story/" target="_blank">friends online</A> and off.<BR></STRONG></P><STRONG>Being Unapologetically Myself is quiet.</STRONG> It’s neither boisterous nor showy. It’s an authentic, natural expression of whom Ive grown to become and what my gifts are.<STRONG></STRONG><STRONG>Being Unapologetially Myself is listening. </STRONG>It’s realizing I do not know everything. It’s knowing when to ask for help. It’s listening to my gut above all else.<STRONG>Being Unapologetically Myself is being willing to stand up. </STRONG> For myself. For others. Not fearing being alone in my beliefs or being wrong out loud<STRONG>.</STRONG><STRONG>Being Unapologetically Myself is being honest with myself. </STRONG> It’s admitting I have faults. It’s being candid with myself about who I am & what I need to work on.<P><STRONG>Being unapologetically myself means Im ever evolving, changing and growing…</STRONG></P><IMG title="Unapologetically Myself (musings on self confidence)." class="size-full wp-image-1797" alt="myself1 1 Unapologetically Myself (musings on self confidence)." src="/myself1-1.jpg" width=240 height=240> <STRONG>although not ‘sans-skull’ grown-up yet!<BR></STRONG></P><P><STRONG>and, for me, is about being comfortable enough in my own skin to realize there’s room enough for us *ALL* to rock.<BR></STRONG></P><P>Now you.</P><P><STRONG>Help me & spare my friends another TheGreatAndMighty O</EM> was right!!! rant:</STRONG></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>No matter your age–how do you define “unapologetically myself” or self-confidence?</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><A id=dd_end></A><br /><p><a href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/14/unapologetically-myself-musings-on-self-confidence/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-21599945349401228522013-12-09T00:21:00.000-08:002013-12-09T00:21:00.448-08:00The Living Plank Ab Workout <P>Just call me the Dr. Frankenstein of planking. I’m gonna make yo’ plank come ALIVE!</P><P>If you’re ready for it (and I know you are), grab a heavy weight and jump into the video. Let’s do The Living Plank together…</P><P>If you prefer to watch the video in Youtube, just <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/youtu.be/_CWbRzB-Zks');" href="http://youtu.be/_CWbRzB-Zks" target="_blank">click here</A>.</EM></P><P><A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe to Yum Yucky on YouTube for more Quickie workouts</A>.</P><P><STRONG>INSTRUCTIONS, PROPER FORM &</STRONG> <STRONG>MODIFICATIONS</STRONG></P><IMG title="The Living Plank Ab Workout " class="alignright size-full wp-image-24193" alt="face shot The Living Plank Ab Workout " src="/face-shot.jpg" width=221 height=173>You’ll need a heavy weight for this workout.In plank position (arms straight, not on elbows), with weight about 6-10 inches in front of you, grab the weight with your right hand, lift 2-3 inches off floor and move the weight to place under your hips.With left hand, grab weight from under hips and place back in starting position. Do not drag the weight along the floor. Be sure to lift it up to work your arms.Continue with the move with a slight side-to-side dip in your hips (as demonstrated in the video) to further activate your obliques.To modify, choose a light to medium weight.Continue with as many reps as possible with good form.<P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.facebook.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.facebook.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Like me on Facebook</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.twitter.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.twitter.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Follow me on Twitter</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe to YumYucky on YouTube</A></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.yumyucky.com/2013/11/plank-ab-workout.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-21680926897360360322013-12-08T20:03:00.000-08:002013-12-08T20:03:00.490-08:00Bee Pollen Benefits (yes! you can eat the stuff) <P>Raw honey smathered on a warm & toasty waffle, then sprinkled with bee pollen. Isn’t it beautiful? Darn tasty, too. But should we really be gnawing on bee pollen?</P><P><IMG title="Bee Pollen Benefits (yes! you can eat the stuff)" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24250" alt="eggo Bee Pollen Benefits (yes! you can eat the stuff)" src="/eggo.jpg" width=498 height=404></P><P>The answer is “no” for a select group of highly sensitive people. Bee pollen could amplify their allergies and cause a massive reaction of volcanic proportions. But for most of us, bee pollen is safe and can actually ward off allergies symptoms. I’ll explain more about that in a sec. But first, let’s gaze into the other magic things about bee pollen…</P><P><STRONG>WHAT IS BEE POLLEN?</STRONG></P><P>It all starts with the pollen from flowers and other pollen-producing plants. Worker bees take this pollen and pack it into balls, which also mixes with honey, nectar and even the saliva of the bee. This what makes it bee pollen. Each granule, or pellet, has it’s own unique “fingerprint”. No two are the same. Granules vary in color, size and shape.</P><P>Bee pollen cannot be reproduced in a lab. Synthesized bee pollen appears to be exactly the same as the real deal, but when bees are fed the man-made version, they die. There’s some kind of unknown, unidentifiable mystery ingredient in bee pollen that man cannot replicate.</P><P><STRONG>BEE POLLEN BENEFITS</STRONG></P><P>When I began consuming raw honey, this is when every single episode of seasonal allergy symptoms completely ceased. Raw honey is best, but a <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00014JNI0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00014JNI0&linkCode=as2&tag=yumyuc-20');" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00014JNI0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00014JNI0&linkCode=as2&tag=yumyuc-20" target="_blank">good organic raw honey</A><IMG title="Ultimate Guide of Gift Ideas For Any Time of Year " border=0 alt=" Bee Pollen Benefits (yes! you can eat the stuff)" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=yumyuc-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00014JNI0" width=1 height=1> will do you just fine if you can’t snag something local. Bee pollen just makes everything much more awesome. It’s been used for centuries – even during the time of the ancient Pharaohs.</P><P>“Beehive foods are superior food sources. Based on its research, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has stated that bee pollen is the most nutritious food we can eat. It contains every nutrient required to sustain and support life in a pure, raw and unaltered form. Bee products can provide support for almost any ailment or desired health enhancement.” ~ <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.envirobee.com/beepollen.htm');" href="http://www.envirobee.com/beepollen.htm" target="_blank">via Envirobee</EM></A></P><P>>> <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.envirobee.com/beepollen2.htm');" href="http://www.envirobee.com/beepollen2.htm" target="_blank">Composition of Pure Bee Pollen</A></P><P>Bee pollen is beneficial in treating allergies & asthma, contains anti-inflammatory, detox and immune-boosting properties. There’s also evidence that it may help chemotherapy patients in their recovery, while also aiding infertility & prostate problems.</P><P><STRONG>HOW EAT BEE POLLEN</STRONG></P><P>Take it slow — only a tiny nip at first to rule out the possibility of an allergic reaction. Try a few granules now and then over a period of time, then add more slowly. If you don’t have an adverse reaction, then by all means enjoy your been pollen. You can sprinkle it on your oatmeal, on salad or fruit, in smoothies, or on toast with peanut butter. Get creative! There really is no wrong way if you enjoy it.</P><P>>> <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.mercola.com/article/diet/bee_pollen.htm');" href="http://www.mercola.com/article/diet/bee_pollen.htm" target="_blank">How to Use Bee Pollen as a Superfood</A></P><P><IMG title="Bee Pollen Benefits (yes! you can eat the stuff)" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24253" alt="bee pollen granule Bee Pollen Benefits (yes! you can eat the stuff)" src="/bee-pollen-granule.jpg" width=498 height=364></P><P>Bee pollen granules appear hard and rocky, but actually have a soft, chalky texture when you bite into it. The taste is only slightly reminiscent of actual honey — it’s a little bit bitter. When added to hot foods the granules begin to melt, presenting with a tiny yellow smear where the granule has melted into the food.</P><P><STRONG>You oughta be trying the stuff!</STRONG> <STRONG>Have you ever? If not, <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000155MWU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000155MWU&linkCode=as2&tag=yumyuc-20');" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000155MWU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000155MWU&linkCode=as2&tag=yumyuc-20">seek some out</A><IMG title="Bee Pollen Benefits (yes! you can eat the stuff)" border=0 alt=" Bee Pollen Benefits (yes! you can eat the stuff)" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=yumyuc-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000155MWU" width=1 height=1> or at least give it a gnaw if the opportunity ever presents itself. It’s real magical ‘n stuff.<BR></STRONG></P><P>v <A href="http://www.yumyucky.com/natural-remedies" target="_blank">Directory of Natural Remedies</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.facebook.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.facebook.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Like me on Facebook</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.twitter.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.twitter.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Follow me on Twitter</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe to YumYucky on YouTube</A></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.yumyucky.com/2013/12/bee-pollen-benefits.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-27547966631824219192013-12-08T15:48:00.000-08:002013-12-08T15:48:00.189-08:00My Tummy Tuck Consultation: what to expect, the cost, and why it didn’t go well <P>The idea for a tummy tuck consultation started way before I mentioned it on <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.facebook.com/YumYucky');" href="https://www.facebook.com/YumYucky" target="_blank">my Facebook page</A>:</P><P><IMG title="My Tummy Tuck Consultation: what to expect, the cost, and why it didnt go well" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24208" alt="facebook consult My Tummy Tuck Consultation: what to expect, the cost, and why it didnt go well" src="/facebook-consult.jpg" width=473 height=222></P><P>Yep. I had the consult. But, ohhh my. It wasn’t all butterflies & unicorn dust. My crappy experience documented in the video may not be what you personally encounter, but you’ll still get the gist of what happens at a consult and find out about how much you’ll pay for a tummy tuck procedure. (click <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/youtu.be/0puAifDCBuk');" href="http://youtu.be/0puAifDCBuk" target="_blank">here</A> if you want to watch the vid in Youtube)</P><P><A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe on Youtube to follow my tummy tuck journey</A>.</P><P>If you’ve had a tummy tuck, are considering a tummy tuck, had a negative consult experience similar to mine, or have advice to offer to those considering a tummy tuck, please share in the comments. I’ll be sure to document any future steps taken towards a tummy tuck. Please check back for more updates. XO!</P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.facebook.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.facebook.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Like me on Facebook</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.twitter.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.twitter.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Follow me on Twitter</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe to YumYucky on YouTube</A></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.yumyucky.com/2013/11/tummy-tuck-consultation-what-to-expect.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-70826738328052076532013-12-08T12:12:00.000-08:002013-12-08T12:12:00.083-08:00Delicious Dairy-Free Cream of Mushroom Soup <P>You do not have to hijack a cow’s udder parts to make this tasty soup. No dairy required. Prep time is only 10 minutes. Cooking time is sensible, too. You can do this. I promise.</P><P><IMG title="Delicious Dairy Free Cream of Mushroom Soup " class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24204" alt="dairy free mushroom soup 2 Delicious Dairy Free Cream of Mushroom Soup " src="/dairy-free-mushroom-soup-2.jpg" width=500 height=417> <P>I made my Dairy Free Cream of Mushroom Soup AFTER making dinner.</P><P>“But Josie, ain’t nobody got time for makin’ soup from scratch. I’ll just open up me up a can of Campbell’s and keep on rollin’.”</EM></P><P>GAH! Please don’t talk like that. This recipe is so darn quick & easy; didn’t interfere with my couch-azzing time at all. You’ll be in & out of the kitchen in plenty of time to maximize (and in no way jeopardize) your much needed lazy time. M’kay?</P><P><STRONG>INGREDIENTS (makes about 4-5 servings)<BR></STRONG></P><P>Prep time: Approximately 10 minutes.</P>6 cups chicken or veggie broth (equal to three 14.5 ounce cans)1 can Goya coconut milk (15.5 ounce can)1 fresh package mushrooms (white, bella, or both — take your pick)2 large carrots, chopped3 celery ribs, sliced1 large onion, diced4-5 garlic cloves, sliced (not smashed)sprinklings of thyme, pepper, sea salt, garlic powder and onion powder1.5 teaspoons rosemary3 heaping tablespoons flour1 tablespoon olive oil1/4 to 1/2 cup white cooking wine<P>If you have reservations about using coconut milk, don’t worry. The union of delicious seasonings make the coconut barely noticeable, if at all.</P><P><STRONG>DIRECTIONS<BR></STRONG></P><P>Cooking time: 20-25 minutes.</P>Set mushrooms to the side and slice carrots, celery, onion & garlic.<IMG title="Delicious Dairy Free Cream of Mushroom Soup " class="alignright size-full wp-image-24210" alt="dairy free mushroom soup Delicious Dairy Free Cream of Mushroom Soup " src="/dairy-free-mushroom-soup.jpg" width=199 height=169>Add sliced veggies to large pot. Saute’ in olive oil & white wine until slightly soft.Add broth and coconut milk. Bring to a boil.Break up mushrooms into large pieces with your hands (or chop into thick pieces), then add to the pot. Feel free to add the stems to the pot if desired.Add sprinklings of thyme, pepper, sea salt, garlic powder and onion powder to the pot. As the soup cooks, add more seasonings to taste.Add the Rosemary. Try not to leave out this ingredient. It really brings out the flavor, along with the thyme.Continue to cook your brew on low to medium heat until all veggies are tender.To thicken your soup, add flour to the pot and whisk with a fork. Continue cooking until soup thickens. Add extra flour if you prefer your soup even thicker.<P><IMG title="Delicious Dairy Free Cream of Mushroom Soup " class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24205" alt="dairy free mushroom soup 1 Delicious Dairy Free Cream of Mushroom Soup " src="/dairy-free-mushroom-soup-1.jpg" width=500 height=344> <P><A href="http://www.yumyucky.com/greedy-recipes" target="_blank">more Greedy Recipes</A></P><P>Any kind of homemade soup is best when packed up to sit in the fridge overnight. All those flavors get to marinate even longer. But you can bet your hungry stomach’s lust for tastiness that this soup is wonderful and warming to the soul when you scoop yourself some fresh out the pot.</P><P>I’ve been packing my soup for lunch this week. Food like this is fantastic for helping you achieve or maintain flat abs. Now say it with me… “BOOM!”</P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.facebook.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.facebook.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Like me on Facebook</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.twitter.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.twitter.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Follow me on Twitter</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe to YumYucky on YouTube</A></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.yumyucky.com/2013/11/dairy-free-cream-of-mushroom-soup.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-86343991026068379202013-12-08T08:16:00.000-08:002013-12-08T08:16:00.112-08:00KLOUT & the power of a tiny tribe. <A id=dd_start></A><BLOCKQUOTE readability="7"><P><STRONG>Ahhh <A title="Klout" href="http://klout.com/" target="_blank">Klout</A>. Here’s where, <A title="Unapologetically Myself (a MISFIT definied)" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/14/unapologetically-myself-musings-on-self-confidence/" target="_blank">were I not a misfit</A>, you might find some sort of disclaimer proffered about varying circumstances etc. Ive got none such disclaimer. I do think KLOUT rocks as no other metric illuminates the power of a TINY TRIBE.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P><STRONG>To be a blogger is to be continually asked to prove your worth.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Each time we pitch/are approached by a brand</STRONG> (a post for a different day. if life is like dating—which I contend it is—I never ‘get’ why brands ask US out & then demand our numbers. It begs a response of: But wait. You wanted to date *me* I didnt as you out!).</EM><STRONG>w</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>We’re repeatedly asked about blog <A title="Google analytics" href="http://www.jeffalytics.com/google-analytics-for-bloggers-presentation/" target="_blank">analytics</A>.<BR></STRONG></P><P>How many visitors we receive daily.</EM></P><P>How many uniques we receive daily.</EM></P><P>How many page views we receive monthly.</EM></P><P>How many how many how many.</EM></P><P><STRONG>My first indication a <A title="Bloggers are storytellers!" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/05/01/we-are-storytellers/" target="_blank">brand partnership</A> is not for me is when they seek these specific numbers upon first encounter.</STRONG></P><IMG title="KLOUT & the power of a tiny tribe." class="size-medium wp-image-16736" alt="644120 10151397588749466 153067425 n1 300x300 KLOUT & the power of a tiny tribe." src="/64412010151397588749466153067425n1-300x300.jpg" width=300 height=300> <STRONG>lemmie check. nope. not a fit.</STRONG></P><P>Sure analytics are important</EM> (a semblance of them are publicly available places like <A title="Compete" href="http://compete.com/" target="_blank">compete.com</A>) yet </EM>they only tell a fraction of the story.</EM></P><P><STRONG>There’s power in a tiny tribe.</STRONG></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>Pause for a moment and consider to whom you look for recommendations or advice.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>If you’re anything like I am it’s someone who has consistently</EM> offered solid information, who’s earned your trust, and whom you see as remarkably similar to you.</P><P><STRONG>There’s power in a tiny tribe.</STRONG></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="7"><P><STRONG>Klout, for this blogger, is precisely like fitness.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>There are <A title="Staying fit is about consistency" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBZxM3Vmi_o" target="_blank">no shortcut</A>s.</P><P>There are no quick tricks.</P><P>The only way to get there (if by “there” you mean living a longer, healthier life which I do) </EM>is <STRONG><A title="The secrets to my weight-loss maintenance." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2011/06/23/the-secrets-to-my-weight-loss-maintenance-athleta-giftcard-giveaway/" target="_blank">consistency</A>.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>There’s power in a tiny tribe.</STRONG></P><P>The same is true with <A title="Why Klout may be the most appropriate marketing metric" href="http://www.businessesgrow.com/2013/11/18/why-a-klout-score-may-be-the-most-appropriate-marketing-metric/" target="_blank">Klout score</A>.</P><P><STRONG>My strong score is indicative of absolutely nothing</STRONG> (where are those <A title="Klout score is a game changer" href="http://www.wired.com/business/2012/04/ff_klout" target="_blank">hotel upgrades we were promised</A>?!) <STRONG>and of absolutely everything </STRONG>(engagement. continually. unseen in pageview numbers.)</EM></P><P>It’s an indicator of consistency across myriad social media platforms in life.</P><P>It’s an indicator of the fact I do a little bit, each day, on a regular basis—<A title="Life is my sport." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/10/11/life-is-my-sport/" target="_blank">precisely like fitness</A>. </EM></P><P><STRONG>And for <A title="What’s YOUR brand saying?" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/08/19/whats-your-brand-saying/" target="_blank">my misfit brand</A>—that’s everything.</STRONG></P><STRONG> Be you blogger or brand—whats your take on the hotly debated topic which is <A title="Klout" href="http://klout.com/" target="_blank">Klout</A>?<BR></STRONG><A id=dd_end></A><br /><p><a href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/22/klout-the-power-of-a-tiny-tribe/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-2298396161010671902013-12-08T04:05:00.000-08:002013-12-08T04:05:00.771-08:00National Adoption month. <A id=dd_start></A><BLOCKQUOTE readability="14"><P><STRONG>The essay below is from my 2012 appearance in <A title="Carla Birnberg LTYM Austin" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-D54U34Nrvs" target="_blank">Austin’s Listen To Your Mother Show</A>. </STRONG></P><P><STRONG>The entire experience was unforgettable–but nothing more so than seeing the pride on my child’s face as I shared our story. Recently, as we chatted about <A title="National Adoption Month" href="http://www.nationaladoptionday.org/" target="_blank">National Adoption Month</A>, she expressed her excitement for our *dear* friend <A title="Sarah Kay Hoffman" href="http://www.sarahkayhoffman.com/2013/11/15/but-by-the-grace-of-god/" target="_blank">Sarah</A> & how cool it is one of her new Oakland BFFs is adopted from Guatemala, too.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>We looked through pictures. We talked about adoption. We brainstormed/listed all the various ways families are created. We watched the <A title="Listen To Your Mother Show: Carla Birnberg" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-D54U34Nrvs" target="_blank">LTYM video</A> again.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Im sharing today. At her request. It’s her story. </STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><IMG title="National Adoption month." class="size-medium wp-image-18070" alt="1378883 10152302636934466 897558936 n 300x300 National Adoption month." src="/137888310152302636934466897558936n-300x300.jpg" width=300 height=300> <STRONG>Life in Guatemala</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>People frequently ask me if my daughter knows she’s adopted.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>They tend to ask in front of her using stage-whispers which make me long to point out she’s six, she’s not deaf.</EM></STRONG></P><P>It’s odd to even consider the notion that when I was young, parents decided when and how and whether to tell their children they were adopted. It’s baffling to me how common it was for children to have this news thrust upon them at age 5 or 8 or, if the rumblings I heard around junior high school were true, even as old as 13.</P><P>Thankfully things have changed.</EM></P><P>The majority of adopted children grow up having a sense of always “just knowing” their story.</P><P>Rather than being something silenced and secret it’s told over & over in the same fashion biological children ask to hear their birth story repeated.</P><P>Adopted children ask the same questions each time and find the same comfort in hearing the answers recited the exact.same.way. each time the story is re-told.</P><P>“<STRONG>I’ll never forget when we got your referral pictures…</STRONG>” our story begins. “<STRONG>Your dad was working late and I could not WAIT for him to get home so I could open the email. I *barely* waited till he came home. I sat on the couch, computer on lap, finger hovering over the word OPEN so the moment he walked in the door I could click and you’d be there INSTANTLY and forever a part of our family.</STRONG>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="6"><P>And then? Tell me about the necklace, Mama.</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>And then, after we’d sent everyone we knew your perfect picture and told them what we’d decided to name you, I had a necklace made. Right then. That night. Thank G-d for online shopping. I made a tiny charm with your picture on it and I vowed to wear it until you were home with us forever.</STRONG>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P>And the Buddha? Tell me how someone thought I was the Buddha. </P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>I wore the necklace from the moment it arrived and I never took it off. Not to shower. Not when I got “fancy.” Never. The days dragged and the red tape wrapped around your adoption file and the necklace remained around my neck. Most days I forgot I had it on even as I absentmindedly rubbed and fiddled with the piece of silver until the picture was there but it was smeary and fingerprinted.</STRONG>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="6"><P>And the Buddha, Mama? That part?</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>And one day I was waiting impatiently in a grocery line </STRONG>(rubbing and fiddling. Fiddling and rubbing.)<STRONG> when a woman turned to me and said: that’s the most lovely Buddha necklace I believe I have ever seen.</STRONG></EM>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="6"><P>And you didn’t wanna embarrass her did you, Mama?</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>I didn’t, BabyGirl. Your eyes were closed, the picture was tiny and I kept you with me for strength and calm. In a way you were *my* Buddha. I just smiled and said thank you.</STRONG>”</P><IMG title="National Adoption month." class="size-medium wp-image-18073" alt="Screen shot 2013 11 08 at 12.16.48 PM 227x300 National Adoption month." src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-08-at-121648-PM-227x300.png" width=227 height=300> <STRONG>The Buddha and the necklace</STRONG></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="7"><P>Tell me about Guatemala, Mama. Did you go there and look around and say I’ll take the girl with the black hair, mama?</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>Do you love movies as I do, BabyGirl?</STRONG>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="4"><P>Yes.</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>Are you afraid of thunder as I was when I was a girl?</STRONG>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="4"><P>Yes.</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>Do you love to dance and sing and write as I do, BabyGirl?</STRONG>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P>I do Mama I do.</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>You were meant to be my girl. And I was meant to be your mom.</STRONG>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="6"><P>Tell me about the first time we met, Mama. Tell me about the blankeys.</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>You were tiny, BabyGirl. Teeny tiny and your foster mom had you wrapped in more blankets and layers than I’d seen in a lifetime.</STRONG>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="6"><P>Tell me how excited you were , Mama. About how you held me.</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>With all the words in the world, BabyGirl there isn’t one that describes how excited I was. I unwrapped and unwrapped you and I held you. And I held you.</STRONG>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="6"><P>Tell me about how you had to leave me there, Mama. Tell me about crying and Texas and about coming back for me. Tell me how you came back for me.</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>I did, BabyGirl. I treasured our visits. I was grateful we could visit and I hated our goodbyes. I cried. I cried big deep sobs from the bottom of my belly from a place I didn’t know I had. From a place marked BabyGirl.</STRONG>”</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P>And then you came back…</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>And then I came back. I grew tired of the waiting and I longed to be with you. I brought my stuff and your stuff and I came back to stay. And we waited there together. And we counted the weeks. And we measured the months. And we unwound the red tape until finally—</STRONG>“</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P>Until finally I could come to Texas and be home.</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>“<STRONG>Yes, BabyGirl until you could finally come to Texas and be home.</STRONG>”</P><IMG title="National Adoption month." class="size-medium wp-image-18071" alt="Screen shot 2013 11 08 at 12.20.50 PM 300x223 National Adoption month." src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-08-at-122050-PM-300x223.png" width=300 height=223> <STRONG>Newly Texan.</STRONG></P><P>I live a public life. A very transparent life.</P><P>I’m a professional blogger and I let it all hang out online—the good and the bad— in a decidedly open fashion.</P><P>I don’t much mention my daughter’s adoption story online because I feel it is her story to tell.</P><P>Because of this fact people frequently ask *me* if my daughter knows she’s adopted.</P><P>She knows she’s adopted.</EM></P><P>She knows her story.</EM></P><P>And maybe, someday, if you’re very good and very patient and ask the right questions at the proper time she’ll share it with you, too.</EM></P><A id=dd_end></A><br /><p><a href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/20/national-adoption-month/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-45130149703659425192013-12-08T00:59:00.000-08:002013-12-08T00:59:00.072-08:00Pepperoni Pizza Trick That Saves on Calories <P>This trick is for pepperoni lovers… I don’t always want a slice of pizza with veggies on it. Gimme some meat on that thang! On average, a sliced piece of pepperoni is about 10 calories each. That meaty ingredient alone can rack up the calories, but the combination of meat & cheeses doesn’t need to be cause for alarm. This Pepperoni Pizza Trick will allow you to keep your hungry jaws gnashing with joy.</P><P>In the example right here, I’ll save 40 calories per slice while still getting the exhilarating taste of pepperoni. I’m about to get all scientific on you, so please observe…</P><P><STRONG>STEP 1:</STRONG> Go get yo’self a slice of pizza. It must be the pepperoni kind if this trick is going to work.</P><P><IMG title="Pepperoni Pizza Trick That Saves on Calories " class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24214" alt="pepperoni pizza 1 Pepperoni Pizza Trick That Saves on Calories " src="/pepperoni-pizza-1.jpg" width=499 height=415></P><P><STRONG>STEP 2:</STRONG> Peel off all pepperoni slices. This might seem weird but the trick is not over, so just do it.</P><P><IMG title="Pepperoni Pizza Trick That Saves on Calories " class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24215" alt="pepperoni pizza 2 Pepperoni Pizza Trick That Saves on Calories " src="/pepperoni-pizza-2.jpg" width=500 height=346></P><P><STRONG>STEP 3:</STRONG> Here’s where the trick comes to life: The tasty residue of the pepperoni (aka, the flavor-grease residue) lingers atop the pizza to deliver a pepperoni-ish experience. Although you won’t get full blown pepperoni taste (along with the extra calories), your taste buds will bask in a similar experience that is uber-satisfying and way more tasty than a plain slice of cheese.</P><P><IMG title="Pepperoni Pizza Trick That Saves on Calories " class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24216" alt="pepperoni pizza 3 Pepperoni Pizza Trick That Saves on Calories " src="/pepperoni-pizza-3.jpg" width=500 height=375>Some days takeout pizza is a complete no-no. Other days, a veggie pizza is best. But on those days when a splurge is on the menu, don’t settle for a boring plain slice of cheese. The Pepperoni Pizza Trick is real tasty ‘n stuff. Try it!</P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.facebook.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.facebook.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Like me on Facebook</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.twitter.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.twitter.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Follow me on Twitter</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe to YumYucky on YouTube</A></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.yumyucky.com/2013/11/pepperoni-pizza-calories.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-17560684799295363012013-12-07T20:27:00.000-08:002013-12-07T20:27:00.262-08:00Ultimate Guide of Gift Ideas For Any Time of Year <P>There’s close to <A href="http://www.yumyucky.com/ultimate-gift-guide" target="_blank">50 gift ideas in the Ultimate Guide</A> so far, and the list is still growing! In the pic are just a few examples from the guide that have been selected by yours truly.</P><P><IMG title="Ultimate Guide of Gift Ideas For Any Time of Year" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24236" alt="guide Ultimate Guide of Gift Ideas For Any Time of Year" src="/guide.jpg" width=500 height=280>Categories within the Guide all tie in to health, fitness & wellness, and include:</P>Fitness DVDsFitness Equipment & ToolsHungry FoodieKitchen & CookingNatural Health & BeautyBooksClothing & Accessories<P><STRONG>>> <A href="http://www.yumyucky.com/ultimate-gift-guide" target="_blank">Click Here</A> to view the entire Ultimate Guide.</STRONG></P><P>As I took time to consider what should be included, it was important for me to feature proven products that really work, provide comfort, build you up strong, or just gosh-darn make you happy. If you know of a fantastic gift idea (for giving or receiving) that should be included, let me know about it!</P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.facebook.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.facebook.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Like me on Facebook</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.twitter.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.twitter.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Follow me on Twitter</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe to YumYucky on YouTube</A></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.yumyucky.com/2013/11/gift-ideas-2013.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-24757564902902165572013-12-07T16:24:00.000-08:002013-12-07T16:24:00.578-08:00An I’m-SO-Sorry Wednesday Weigh-in AKA Busy Photo Shoot Day! <P>Hey guys, I’m SO sorry this is late. It makes it even worse that I’m on the West Coast considering it’s “tomorrow” already. Regardless, I’m sorry. I should have had it queued up knowing the day I had scheduled.</P><P>And Oh. My. What a day!</P><P>I would love to stay up all night telling you about it but honestly I’m exhausted so you are going to get the bullet list version, but before I start I have to ask you a favor. Please forget (or at least don’t mention) what magazine I told you I’ll be in and which show I’m shooting a segment for, OK? I, ummm</EM>, really wasn’t suppose to tell you but I did and now I’m doing damage control. So let’s just say I’m working with a major magazine and a national talk show. Mmmkay?</P><P>Now that we got that out of the way, this is pretty much how my day went.</P><P><STRONG>1. Morning run. </STRONG></P><P>I couldn’t help myself. I was up about an hour early and I just HAD to see a little of Hollywood so I snuck in about a mile and a half and caught a glimpse of the Hollywood sign!</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter wp-image-19977" alt=1425730_10151776319382876_293881740_n src="/142573010151776319382876293881740n.jpg" width=550></P><P><STRONG>2. My fellow bloggers. </STRONG></P><P>I met up with <A href="http://blackgirlsguidetoweightloss.com/" target="_blank">Erika</A> and <A href="http://diaryofanaspiringloser.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Michelle</A> and we become instant buddies. LOVE these women!</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter wp-image-19978" alt="Screen shot 2013-11-21 at 1.43.08 AM" src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-21-at-14308-AM.png" width=550></P><P><STRONG>3 . Interviews and B-roll</STRONG></P><P>We spent about 2 hours recording a little about our backgrounds and some footage for “the show.”</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter wp-image-19979" alt="Screen shot 2013-11-21 at 1.46.10 AM" src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-21-at-14610-AM.png" width=550></P><P><STRONG>4. Hair, makeup and wardrobe!!</STRONG></P><P>Boy, a girl can get used to being pampered.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter wp-image-19980" alt="Screen shot 2013-11-21 at 1.48.14 AM" src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-21-at-14814-AM.png" width=550></P><P>I’m wearing boots and skinny jeans! No, you don’t understand — I AM wearing BOOTS and SKINNY JEANS.</P><P>I don’t do boots and skinny jeans. I just don’t.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter wp-image-19983" alt="Screen shot 2013-11-21 at 1.51.14 AM" src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-21-at-15114-AM.png" width=550></P><P>I may have to change my policy. lol</P><P><STRONG>5. Photo shoot!</STRONG></P><P>We did shots in workouts clothes and dressed up, alone and in the group. They even had our before pictures to pose by!</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19984" alt="Screen shot 2013-11-21 at 1.52.59 AM" src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-21-at-15259-AM.png" width=577 height=547></P><P><STRONG>6. Interviews</STRONG></P><P>We sat down and talked for some time. Unfortunately, you will have to wait until February to get the details. :(</P><P><STRONG>7. Dinner</STRONG></P><P>I didn’t take any pictures but I had a wonderful meal at the hotel with all these amazing, inspirational women!</P><P><STRONG>8. CrossFit</STRONG></P><P>I know. I know. I’m crazy but hey, I’m only here for a couple of days and I’m sucking the marrow out of it. So when Paola reached out and told me she was so close, we just HAD to meet up for a workout.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-19985" alt="Screen shot 2013-11-21 at 1.57.34 AM" src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-21-at-15734-AM.png" width=559 height=384></P><P>It was an awesome partner workout, too, and we kicked A$$!</P><P><STRONG>9. BED! </STRONG></P><P>As in right now. I’m exhausted. I’ve been going non-stop since 6:30 this morning and right now it’s 11 p.m. Not to mention 2 a.m. my time. I know sleep is important but sometimes you just need to seize the day!</P><P><STRONG>Now, I realize I’m late but those who are weighing in with me please post your updates! Late is better than never. :) </STRONG></P><br /><p><a href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/11/an-im-so-sorry-wednesday-weigh-in-aka-busy-photo-shoot-day.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-69227708617952025072013-12-07T12:40:00.000-08:002013-12-07T12:40:00.187-08:00Accidental goal achievement. <A id=dd_start></A><IMG title="Accidental goal achievement." class="size-full wp-image-16806" alt="20130304 155148 Accidental goal achievement." src="/20130304-155148.jpg" width=225 height=300> <STRONG>these feet were made fer walkin’!</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Years ago. </STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Many. </STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Perhaps <A title="15 yrs ago. In the basement of a jail." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/01/10/15-yrs-ago-in-the-basement-of-a-jail/" target="_blank">around twenty</A>? </STRONG></P><P><STRONG>I had a conversation with my then-boyfriend/now-husband:<BR></STRONG></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>I long to be the individual people look at and wonder: Does she own a car? I always see her on her bike! Seriously. Does she own a car?!</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>I dont even know precisely why I longed for this (remnants of college Grateful Dead loving days? a sense of wanting the freedom I surmised a bike-only misfit would feel?) </EM>–but I did.</P><P>There simply seemed to exist a spontaneity in that girl I wanted to experience and which I did not possess.</P><P><STRONG>I was also self-aware enough–even then–to realize this would never happen.</STRONG></P><P>It wasnt so much I loved my car/cars in general (oh how I did not)</EM>.</P><P>It wasnt the fact I didnt need/want the exercise (biking places seemed an easy way to fit in fitness).</EM></P><P>I just knew myself.</P><P>Even then.</EM></P><P>The conversations would always end with:</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>…and I guess part of maturing is realizing when something you WANT to be a piece of <A title="Softening attachment to your self definitinon." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2009/02/09/monday-facetime-softening-the-self-definition/" target="_blank">your self-definition</A></STRONG> <STRONG>really will never be reality. That bike-women sounds free-spirited & interesting yet that will never be me.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>I recognized <A title="how do you FRAME yourself?" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/06/12/how-do-you-frame-yourself/" target="_blank">it was fantasy I needed to let go of</A>.</P><P>And <A title="Shedding notions which no longer serve us." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/10/21/shedding-habits-which-no-longer-serve-us/" target="_blank">shed I did</A>.</P><P><STRONG>Id completely forgotten those <A title="Is old talk the new fat talk?" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/07/31/is-old-talk-the-new-fat-talk/" target="_blank">youthful-conversations</A> until recently, too.</STRONG></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>Flash forward to life *today* in Oakland.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>After flashing back to my <A title="My broken window." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/05/28/my-broken-window/" target="_blank">broken window experiences.</A> </EM></P><P><STRONG>Oh, and flashing sideways to how <A title="My pedometer made me a better mother." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/07/29/my-pedometer-made-me-a-better-mother/" target="_blank">having a pedometer has changed my life and made me a better mother</A>.</STRONG></P><P>(Annnnnnd <A title="PLAYouts: Doing the sprinkler." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/07/19/playouts-doing-the-sprinkler/" target="_blank">do the *sprinkler*</A> as you dash UPSTAIRS because youre <A title="Deconveniencing our lives." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/09/17/deconveniencing-our-lives/" target="_blank">not allowed to pee on the first floor</A> these days…)</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>The lens through which I view Oakland-living has done a 180 by virtue of the fact I’ve chosen to view it as a walking community.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>It’s not really.</P><P>It’s a kind of a haul to my <A title="If we had coffee…" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/06/17/if-we-had-coffee-2/" target="_blank">coffee-shop office</A>.</P><P>I can only grab a few items at the grocery as the l-o-n-g walk back + said items on my back = awkward-cumbersome.</P><P>Yet I’ve chosen to view my ‘hood through the WALKING LENS none the less.</P><IMG title="Accidental goal achievement." class="size-medium wp-image-17582" alt="282350 10151487324514466 610444237 n 300x206 Accidental goal achievement." src="/28235010151487324514466610444237n-300x206.jpg" width=300 height=206> <STRONG>go carla go!</STRONG></P><P>Recently a neighbor I dont know approached me and asked:</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>Do you own a car? We see you walking everywhere and wondered.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>Over the course of the next few weeks I *other* strangers/neighbors/new friends made similar comments.</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>Do you and your husband share one car? I see you walking all the time–did you sell your car before you moved?</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>It was during those interactions it dawned on me I’d achieved a life-goal without noticing.</P><IMG title="Accidental goal achievement." class="size-full wp-image-18126" alt="20131120 111100 Accidental goal achievement." src="/20131120-111100.jpg" width=245 height=300> <STRONG>rain or shine: Id become a walker!</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Id done precisely what the ‘goal achieving gurus’ tell us not to do</STRONG> (Id taken my eyes completely off the prize!)</EM><STRONG> and only after I let my goal go did I accidentally achieve it</STRONG>.</P><P>And, because I am indeed the consummate misfit, this accidental-success has bolstered my confidence in arenas where Im actively seeking successes.</EM></P><P>I now think:</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="6"><P><STRONG>Well damn. If I can transform myself into the girl no one thinks owns a car (!!) then why could I NOT _______, too?</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P><STRONG>It feels empowering & it feels amazing.</STRONG></P><P><A title="I feel stoppable." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/06/03/i-never-felt-stoppable/" target="_blank">I feel unstoppable</A>.</P><P>And you?</P><STRONG>Have you ever been so busy LIVING youve not realized</STRONG>—either until someone points it out or with hindsight–<STRONG>youve achieved a goal?<BR></STRONG><A id=dd_end></A><br /><p><a href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/12/04/accidental-goal-achievement/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-73099368191384329242013-12-07T07:46:00.000-08:002013-12-07T07:46:00.271-08:0010 ‘Healthy’ Thanksgiving Comments from Facebook <P>Yesterday the Food Network <A href="https://www.facebook.com/FoodNetwork/posts/10151755756431727" target="_blank">posted this to its Facebook wal</A>l.</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P>How important is it that there be at least one healthy dish at your Thanksgiving meal?</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>My first thought when I read it was… ugh.</P><P><STRONG>Why can’t Thanksgiving be “healthy,” and what the crap does that mean anyway? </STRONG></P><P>I make a fairly traditional Thanksgiving dinner every year. At least I think so. I roast a HUGE turkey (20+ pounds,) mashed potatoes, stuffing (IN the bird,) sweet potatoes, corn, roasted brussels sprouts, and a fun <A href="http://greenlitebites.com/2010/11/26/thanksgiving-harvest-salad/" target="_blank">“Harvest” Salad</A>, as I like to call it. We have pumpkin roll and pies for dessert and during the day I make a big veggie tray for snacking. It’s all REAL, HEALTHY</EM> food. Geesh, if we ate these types of food more often we’d probably be better off. Sure, you can consume too much, but Thanksgiving may be one of the “healthiest” food days of the year!</P><P>I’m so tired of people manufacturing this battle between “healthy” and “unhealthy” foods. It’s just another way to say “good” and “bad.” We all do it. I’m guilty too but the sooner we stop demonizing (food), depriving (ourselves) and degrading (others’ choices) the better. Then maybe we can stop the crazy dieting cycles so many of us seem to be stuck in.</P><P>I was happy to see some of the comments agreed with my gut reaction. Here were a few of my favorites (of the ones I read — there were TONS.)</P><P>Note: I don’t know if I should credit these as they are Facebook accounts. This is one of those times I’m just unsure what the proper etiquette is.</P><STRONG>Define your own healthy.</STRONG> There will be white meat turkey, and that is low in fat and calories. There will be a salad, fresh healthy greens. I am making a cauliflower and fennel dish with no fat in the dressing, but I’m making it because it sounds good. Someone will make a quinoa tabbouleh, delicious and healthy. Sweet potatoes are high in fiber, even when they are soaked in syrup and topped with marshmallow. My family is great at making a large variety of foods so that everyone, be they calorie conscious, gluten free, vegetarian, low carb, high fiber or bacon lover can have something to be thankful for.Other than the pies this is the food we eat in our household all the time. Didn’t anyone else grow up eating pot roast dinner with gravy on Sundays? <STRONG>Depriving is the first step to diet failure.</STRONG><STRONG>Everything and anything is healthy in moderation</STRONG>. Ignoring all the rules for one meal isn’t gonna kill you. After years of adjusting my eating habits to lose 150+ pounds, I simply don’t even enjoy the foods that put me on life support for a week. I also don’t ignore my cravings during the holidays!!!You should always have something healthy but you don’t have to stress about calories and fat on Thanksgiving. <STRONG>Just eat and be happy!</STRONG>Most of the dishes at the table are fairly healthy.<STRONG> It isn’t the quality that makes it perhaps a bit unhealthy, it’s the sheer quantity.</STRONG>Depends on what you consider healthy. <STRONG>A good meal with friends and family is always healthy.</STRONG><STRONG>Everything is healthy if it feeds your soul.</STRONG><STRONG>Why can’t all the dishes be healthy? And even if they aren’t, no ones forcing you to eat them.</STRONG>Very important, as a matter of fact we make our entire Thanksgiving meal healthy except for the dessert. <STRONG>There’s nothing wrong with adjusting recipes to make them healthier.</STRONG> It’s easily done without sacrificing flavor or texture.<STRONG>Truth be known, if you’ve cooked it all fresh it’s healthier then 90% of the crap we eat at a normal lunch during work. So I say just enjoy that and be thankful you could have Thanksgiving dinner, in a warm house, with family and friends</STRONG><BR><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15463" alt=20121123_thanks3 src="/20121123thanks3.jpg" width=550 height=367>Last year’s Thanksgiving table. I can’t wait for everyone to join us again! </EM></P><P><STRONG>What’s your take on this whole “healthy” Thanksgiving thing?</STRONG></P><br /><p><a href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/11/10-healthy-thanksgiving-comments.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-35110099487483982282013-12-07T04:40:00.000-08:002013-12-07T04:40:00.064-08:00Comfort food. <A id=dd_start></A><P><STRONG>As much as Ive <A title="The transition is as important as the pose" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/11/01/im-moving/" target="_blank">struggled in my transition</A> to Oakland there are many facets of my new ‘hood which are better than the ATX!!! I really enjoy.<BR></STRONG></P><IMG title="Comfort food." class="size-medium wp-image-17140" alt="AdobePhotoshopExpress 2013 06 03 12 57 16 300x225 Comfort food." src="/AdobePhotoshopExpress20130603125716-300x225.jpg" width=300 height=225> <STRONG>OAKtown sidewalk surprise!</STRONG></P><IMG title="Comfort food." class="size-full wp-image-18000" alt="20131013 051423 Comfort food." src="/20131013-051423.jpg" width=225 height=300> <STRONG>The canines! The canines!</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>The lovely lake.</STRONG></P><IMG title="Comfort food." class="size-medium wp-image-18101" alt="Screen shot 2013 11 15 at 4.49.39 AM 300x287 Comfort food." src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-15-at-44939-AM-300x287.png" width=300 height=287> <STRONG>ahhh Lake Merritt.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>The <A title="Staycations ROCK in Oakland!" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/08/13/five-tips-for-planning-a-fitness-staycation/" target="_blank">farmer’s markets</A>.</STRONG></P><IMG title="Comfort food." class="size-full wp-image-17378" alt="20130727 152514 Comfort food." src="/20130727-152514.jpg" width=226 height=300> <STRONG>Edible FLOWERS?!</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Nothing has impacted me as profoundly, however, as our new synagogue </STRONG>(which surprised this <A title="Jewish Girls." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/10/11/jewish-girls/" target="_blank">Misfit Jew</A> as “non-traditional” doesnt begin to capture my religious approach)</EM><STRONG>.</STRONG></P><P>This year we’re participating in Family Sunday School</EM> pilot program.</P><IMG title="Comfort food." class="size-full wp-image-18104" alt="20131115 132654 Comfort food." src="/20131115-132654.jpg" width=225 height=300> <STRONG>our very serious Sunday School folder.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>A few Sundays ago our focus was on traditional foods </STRONG><STRONG>and <A title="Will drawing comfort food make us happy?" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/08/21/will-drawing-comfort-food-make-us-happy/" target="_blank">what we think of as comfort foods</A></STRONG> (it’s a misfit synagogue. there was lots of talk about secular Thanksgiving fare).</P><P>We went around the room and each had an opportunity to share what sprung to mind after heading the words COMFORT FOOD.</EM></P><P><STRONG>Everything was mentioned from lemon bars to <A title="A misfit Hanukkah" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2009/12/18/a-mizfit-hanukkah/" target="_blank">latkes</A>.</STRONG></P><IMG title="Comfort food." class="size-medium wp-image-18102" alt="Screen shot 2013 11 15 at 5.20.02 AM 300x207 Comfort food." src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-15-at-52002-AM-300x207.png" width=300 height=207> <STRONG>fried in OIL, Baby!</STRONG></P><P>As my turn approached (mercif</EM>ully slooooowed by reminiscing & <A title="In a food fantasy what would YOU eat?" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/03/18/in-a-food-fantasy-what-would-you-eat/" target="_blank">food-fantasizing</A></EM>) I began to panic.</P><P><STRONG>As <A title="Is BEEF JERKY a comfort food?" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/08/21/will-drawing-comfort-food-make-us-happy/" target="_blank">we’ve chatted about before</A> –</EM>I possess no foods of comfort.</STRONG></P><P>Which isnt to say I didnt eat many of the foods mentioned (except chopped liver. anyone love the chopped liver?)</EM>—<A title="Mindful eating." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/06/28/mindful-eating/" target="_blank">I just eat them when I crave them and Im done.</A></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>No real sense of comfort involved.</STRONG></EM></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P><STRONG>As I listened to the powerful memories the comfort foods evoked for my fellow misfit Jews classmates I wondered if we werent missing out?</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>If I werent “denying” the Tornado some sort of life-experience as she doesnt really have a comfort food (yet) & <A title="I am *not* a foodie." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/02/21/i-am-not-a-foodie/" target="_blank">not being a foodieMama</A></STRONG> <STRONG>theres little chance of us creating <A title="what are food memories" href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/17/food-memories_n_3612932.html" target="_blank">powerful food memories</A>.</STRONG></P><IMG title="Comfort food." class="size-medium wp-image-17541" alt="ca821714102911e3b60722000a9f09f0 7 300x300 Comfort food." src="/ca821714102911e3b60722000a9f09f07-300x300.jpg" width=300 height=300> <STRONG>plain plain plain is how I roll.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>We “bond” over food </STRONG>(in our own way)<STRONG> yet the majority of the time our bonding has little to do with the food at all.<BR></STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Id never thought too much about comfort foods.</STRONG></P><P>They arent how I</EM> lick my forearms–Im a <A title="Love Actually" href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0314331/?ref_=ttqt_qt_tt" target="_blank">comfort-MOVIE</A> person–yet that’s all it really seemed to me.</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>A different approach to <A title="How do you self-soothe?" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2010/01/05/how-do-you-lick-your-forearms/" target="_blank">self-soothing</A>.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P><STRONG>Hearing the powerful connection between comfort foods & family-ties/comfort food’s <A title="STUDY: comfort foods can lessen loneliness" href="http://www.psychologicalscience.org/index.php/news/releases/chicken-soup-for-the-soul-comfort-food-fights-loneliness.html" target="_blank">power to lessen feelings of loneliness</A> sparked me to wonder if the Tornado is missing out potentially never having fond food memories to reflect back on.</STRONG></P><P>So I look to you during this <A title="Thanksgivukkah" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thanksgivukkah" target="_blank">Thanksgivukkah</A> season of food & family & hit you up with my many queries:<BR></EM></P><STRONG>Am I really unique in having few memories which involve/center around food? </STRONG><STRONG>Do you feel–as I now do–comfort food isnt inherently “bad” just gotten a <A title="what does bad rap mean" href="http://onlineslangdictionary.com/meaning-definition-of/bad-rap" target="_blank">bad rap</A>?</STRONG><A id=dd_end></A><br /><p><a href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/25/comfort-food/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-79493727159052772702013-12-06T23:55:00.000-08:002013-12-06T23:55:01.573-08:00Who won the Quantum Scale? <P>Adrianne wins the <A href="http://www.yumyucky.com/2013/11/quantam-scale.html" target="_blank">Quantum Scale</A>!</P><P><IMG title="Who won the Quantum Scale?" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24246" alt="cheesy gift Who won the Quantum Scale?" src="/cheesy-gift.png" width=497 height=184></P><P>Thank you to everyone who participated. Your cheesy gift stories were hilarious. XO!</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.yumyucky.com/2013/12/won-quantum-scale.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-33665286071505059282013-12-06T18:59:00.000-08:002013-12-06T18:59:00.177-08:00I sleep like a toddler. <A id=dd_start></A><IMG title="I sleep like a toddler." class="size-medium wp-image-16461" alt="20121119 132634 225x300 I sleep like a toddler." src="/20121119-132634-225x300.jpg" width=225 height=300> <STRONG>Shocking! Im not here!</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>These days it </STRONG><STRONG>seems the most common question I receive is about sleep.</STRONG><STRONG> </EM></STRONG></P><P></EM>I get lots of <A title="Six steps to clean eating." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/08/06/six-steps-to-clean-eating/">what do you eat</A>?! </EM>or<A title="My workouts." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/06/11/my-workouts/"> will you share your workout routine?</EM></A> queries—but more than anything Im asked <STRONG>what time I plop my misfit-self in bed, how you can become an early riser & <A title="Are we sleep deprived?" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/07/11/am-i-sleep-deprived/" target="_blank">if I get enough rest</A></STRONG> (according to that test I *do*–you?!).<STRONG><BR></STRONG></EM></P><P>I completely understand.</EM></P><P>Given the time of day I comment on blogs, <A title="MizFit on Twitter" href="https://twitter.com/MizFitOnline" target="_blank">commence tweeting</A> & yammer on <A title="MizFit on the book of the face" href="https://www.facebook.com/MizFitOnline" target="_blank">Facebook</A> it makes sense you’re more intrigued with my bedtime than my <A title="Miz' bicep workout" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2008/07/16/viewer-mail-the-some-of-you-are-gonna-feel-ripped-off-edition/" target="_blank">biceps</A>.</P><P>I ADORE you for it.</EM></P><P>You may regret asking after this long snooze-sparking post*—yet, <STRONG>sleep</STRONG>, in my opinion,<STRONG> is the cornerstone to success in all facets of life.</STRONG><BR></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG><A title="Four steps to becoming an early bird." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/01/14/four-steps-to-becoming-an-early-bird/" target="_blank">Ive always been a lark</A>.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>Im energized by the promise of what the day might hold & the irrepressible feeling today! could! be! the! one!</EM></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>If you</STRONG><STRONG>re <A title="Night time exericsing works!" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/01/07/oooh-snap-a-night-exerciser-responds/" target="_blank">happily an owl</A>—dont change</STRONG>!</P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>While we can shift ourselves slightly either way—given my natural inclination & that of the Tornado, Im not certain we should try!<STRONG> </STRONG></P><IMG title="I sleep like a toddler." class="size-medium wp-image-16582" alt="photo20 300x193 I sleep like a toddler." src="/photo20-300x193.jpg" width=300 height=193> <STRONG>yes. yes I do.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Im </STRONG><STRONG>asleep by 10p & awake at 4 am.<BR></STRONG><BR><STRONG>I get up, snag ME-TIME</STRONG> (<A title="Meditation doesnt change things." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/07/02/meditation-doesnt-change-things/" target="_blank">meditate</A>/work) <STRONG>& squeeze a <A title="PLAYout" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2010/11/10/mizfit-on-tv-talkin-about-playouts/" target="_blank">PLAYout</A> in with the Tornado all before it’s time to walk to school.<BR></EM></STRONG></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>I also never set an alarm.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>My *firm* belief is if Im not awake & ready to go-go-go! then Im not meant to be awake. I must need more rest.</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>Im always awake & eager to wrangle my day by 4a.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>(Lest it sound as though Im bragging you should see me at 9p. It’s ugly. Im over my day & already longing for a new one. you’ll have that)</EM><STRONG></STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Personal proclivities aside–be you OWL or LARK–I believe we all need to treat ourselves like TODDLERS with regards to sleep.</STRONG></P><IMG title="I sleep like a toddler." class="size-medium wp-image-18079" alt="Screen shot 2013 11 10 at 5.37.27 AM 300x218 I sleep like a toddler." src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-10-at-53727-AM-300x218.png" width=300 height=218> <STRONG>this one taught me ALL about slumber…</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Three tips for sleeping creating a toddler-like sleep routine:</STRONG></P><STRONG>Set a routine and stick to it! </STRONG>This simple concept changed my life. As a freelance writer my days are unpredictable. It’s the nature of the job. <STRONG>Keeping my transition from awake to asleep *routine* helps immensely with turning off my work-brain.</STRONG> The more predictable my sleep schedule—the more easily I slip into slumber. <STRONG>I know <STRONG>this is a challenge with</STRONG> busy lives–yet the benefits of nightly rituals</STRONG> (from tea to journaling)<STRONG> are immeasurable.</STRONG><STRONG>Leave on a light to scare away monsters! </STRONG>I was plagued by the Cr*p Did I Forget To Do That?! </EM>monster & the Shoot I Need To Remember to XXX </EM>boogie-woman. <STRONG>My grown-up nightlight? A notebook</EM>.</STRONG> I always have pen & paper by my bed. If I start fretting/mental list-making I grab it, do a braindump so I can *SLEEP* & handle my list in the morning. This tactic works wonders in banishing nighttime fret-fears so my mind rest.<STRONG>Dont wait to unwind!</STRONG> We’d never summon a toddler from a game of freeze tag, plop her in bed and expect her to fall immediately asleep! We recognize the need for transition time. We adult-types forget that same fact about ourselves. <STRONG>Whatever time you go to sleep, ‘start the process’</STRONG> </EM><STRONG>early</STRONG>. Provide your mind a chance to s-l-o-w-l-y shed the day’s thoughts/worries & ready itself for rest. Studies say we ‘should’ unplug from screens long before bed time. MizFit says explore different options/find what works best to relax you. </EM>From Kindle to Chamomile discover what helps *your* mind unwind.Here is where, were we not chatting about TODDLERS I’d add a rant about <A title="Five healthy habits for beating energy VAMPIRES." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/04/five-healthy-habits-for-beating-energy-vampires/" target="_blank">caffeine consumption after noon</A> & keeping the bed for, uh, *BED STUFF* and not web surfing. Please to remind yourself of the benefits of these two notions.<P><STRONG>(*looks around to see if anyone is still awake & reading*)<BR></STRONG></P><P>I know.</P><P>More than you wanted to know about my thoughts on sleep—</EM>yet three steps which have tremendously helped me increase my slumber.</P><P><STRONG>Now I turn to you.</STRONG></P><STRONG>Whats your NUMBER ONE tip for falling, staying or making more time for sleep?</STRONG><STRONG>Do you believe we can shift from OWL to LARK?<BR></STRONG><P><STRONG>*which I guess would make this a winwin, huh?</STRONG></P><A id=dd_end></A><br /><p><a href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/18/i-sleep-like-a-toddler-2/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-57608485972659873292013-12-06T15:14:00.000-08:002013-12-06T15:14:00.244-08:00The ultimate couch potato workout (guest post) <A id=dd_start></A><P><IMG title="The ultimate couch potato workout (guest post)" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-17535" alt="theultimatecouchpotatoworkout 300x213 The ultimate couch potato workout (guest post)" src="/theultimatecouchpotatoworkout-300x213.jpg" width=300 height=213></P><P><STRONG>G’day! I’m Lauren. </STRONG></P><P><STRONG>I’m an Aussie personal trainer and strength coach who dabbles a little in Volleyball. </STRONG></P><P><STRONG>I blog over at <A href="http://laurensfitness.com/">LaurensFitness.com</A>.</STRONG></P><P>If the football or your favorite reality show has you glued to the TV, it doesn’t mean you need to make that bum groove any bigger.</EM></P><P>Try this couch potato workout that will challenge your inner athlete and make your couch time much more productive!</P><P>Strength training is ridiculously important and effective, but you don’t need to leave your living room to get it done.</P><P>If you want to grow, lose fat or get stronger you need to put some pressure on your muscles. To get the best result quickly we want to stay in a low repetition range.</P><P><STRONG>Couch Rules:</STRONG></P>Do the circuit 2 or 3 time depending on your level.Perform each exercise 8-12 times, if you can do 12 repetitions perform the harder version of the exercise.Rest for 1 minute in between each circuit.Drink water not beer.<P><STRONG>Squats</STRONG></P><P>The classic squat is functional, a great warm up for the circuit and will work your bum and legs. Stand in front of the couch and move backwards from your hips first, let your knees follow. When you tip the couch push back up again slowly.</P><P><STRONG>T Push Ups</STRONG></P><P>With an added twist to the push up this is great for your chest and core. Start with your hands on the couch just wider than shoulder width apart. Press up into a push up position and extend your body out to a T. If this is too easy, reverse it! Put your feet on the couch and your hands on the floor.</P><P><STRONG>Split Squats</STRONG></P><P>We are taking the squat one step further and really challenging your legs and stability. Place one leg on the couch and step out as far as you can. When you drop down into the lunge your knees shouldn’t go over your toes. If it’s too difficult just drop down and hold in an isometric position for as long as you can. Don’t worry, you will improve quickly!</P><P><STRONG>Upper Back Prone Lifts</STRONG></P><P>This will hit that core and get your upper back in shape. Start with your feet on the floor and forearms on the couch. Keep your body is a straight position and squeeze your bum. From here you want to drop your upper body down so your chest get’s closer to the couch. Press back up and round your upper body out. This should burn between your shoulder blades!</P><P><STRONG>Couch Hip Thrusts</STRONG></P><P>This is harder than it looks! Place your shoulders on the couch and your feet on the floor. Drop your bum to the floor and press back up through your heels until your body is level again. Too easy? Try it one leg!</P><P>Want more workouts you can do at home?</P><P>Luckily I have another 41 exercises you can do in your living room, <A href="http://www.laurensfitness.com/2013/09/04/at-home-workouts/">check them out here</A>!</P><A id=dd_end></A><br /><p><a href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/29/the-ultimate-couch-potato-workout-guest-post/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-51116634794043799002013-12-06T10:39:00.000-08:002013-12-06T10:39:00.407-08:00Weigh In: These are my feet … <P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20074" alt=20131127_weighin src="/20131127weighin.jpg" width=550 height=183></P><P>… and they aren’t on a scale — they haven’t been on one in a month!</P><P>If you missed it last month I decided it was time for me to <A title="Wednesday ‘Weigh In’ – This is my scale…" href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/10/wednesday-weigh-in-this-is-my-scale.html">ditch the scale for good. I’m not going to get all into it again — click here to see the post. </A></P><P>If I’m being honest, I thought about digging it out of the basement maybe twice</EM>. But that’s not too bad for a previous daily weigher! I kind of like this new state I’m in. I have no idea how much I weigh and I don’t care. I’m active! Running when I can, weight training and really enjoying learning Olympic lifts. I’m staying active with the kids. I walk whenever I can. I eat when I’m hungry and try to focus on unprocessed stuff as much as possible. There are times I still struggle with mindless and nighttime snacking but that’s just something I will always have to work on being conscious about.</P><P>My biggest lesson learned after this month is: nothing has changed. Nothing. Well, besides the fast that I don’t have some silly number in my head.</P><P>The scale was once a powerful tool for me but I think recognizing its irrelevance at this point is a huge step in my maintenance journey.</P><P><STRONG>That’s my story this week. How about you? Excited for Thanksgiving or fearing it?</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Just remember it’s one stinking day. Have fun and move on. I’ll be back tomorrow with some photos from our <A href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/10/ronis-virtual-turkey-trot.html" target="_blank">Turkey Trot</A>. PLEASE tag or send me photos if you are joining is. I’d love to see updates. I’ll post on <A href="http://instagram.com/Roninoone" target="_blank">Instagram</A> as well. No idea what I’m talking about? <A href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/10/ronis-virtual-turkey-trot.html" target="_blank">Click here! </A></STRONG></P><br /><p><a href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/11/weigh-in-these-are-my-feet.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-76589270661997345432013-12-06T05:55:00.000-08:002013-12-06T05:55:01.261-08:00Bollywood Hips and Abs <P>You ready to focus on your core and shake them hips? This is a freestyle, pre-workout warmup set to a Bollywood groove. Do it before your main workout, or anytime you feel like shaking ‘dat ass. hahaha!</P><P>If you prefer to watch the video in Youtube, just <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/youtu.be/ouWMQQGrooE');" href="http://youtu.be/ouWMQQGrooE" target="_blank">click here</A>.</EM></P><P>Have fun with it. If you’re not having fun with your workouts, then why even bother. ((winks))</P><P><A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe to Yum Yucky on YouTube for more Quickie workouts</A>.</P><P><STRONG>INSTRUCTIONS, PROPER FORM &</STRONG> <STRONG>MODIFICATIONS</STRONG></P>There is no right or wrong way when you’re feeling the groove.For best results, activate the core, drawing all movement from your center and out through your hips.Do this in a mirror while nobody’s looking, or go outside and perform for all your neighbors. Yes?<P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.facebook.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.facebook.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Like me on Facebook</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.twitter.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.twitter.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Follow me on Twitter</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe to YumYucky on YouTube</A></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.yumyucky.com/2013/12/bollywood-hips-abs-workout.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-28758618692167796192013-12-06T02:05:00.000-08:002013-12-06T02:05:00.588-08:00Eight mitzvahs. <A id=dd_start></A><IMG title="Eight mitzvahs." class="size-full wp-image-18105" alt="20131116 064031 Eight mitzvahs." src="/20131116-064031.jpg" width=300 height=297> <STRONG>eight good deeds.<BR></STRONG></P><P><STRONG>To my tremendous dismay shock the Tornado turns eight this weekend.</STRONG></P><P>Seriously. Shock could not be more fitting a word.</P><P><STRONG>When I launched this blog she looked something like this:</STRONG></P><IMG title="Eight mitzvahs." class="size-medium wp-image-17107" alt="753840 1000 300x199 Eight mitzvahs." src="/7538401000-300x199.jpg" width=300 height=199> <STRONG>Drooly canine sidekick.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Hovered around here for a while:</STRONG></P><IMG title="Eight mitzvahs." class="size-medium wp-image-14537" alt="2009 11 23 13.26.44 Austin Texas US 225x300 Eight mitzvahs." src="/2009-11-23-132644AustinTexasUS-225x300.jpg" width=225 height=300> <STRONG>black bean brownies? thumbs up!<BR></STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Started school and plateaued here for a bit:</STRONG></P><IMG title="Eight mitzvahs." class="size-medium wp-image-14309" alt="378900 10150702782994466 666074465 12011956 631453154 n 300x225 Eight mitzvahs." src="/3789001015070278299446666607446512011956631453154n-300x225.jpg" width=300 height=225> <STRONG>Im a climbing Tornado!</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>And then seemingly *suddenly* shotUPgrewUP to this:</STRONG></P><IMG title="Eight mitzvahs." class="size-full wp-image-16635" alt="20130115 050850 Eight mitzvahs." src="/20130115-050850.jpg" width=225 height=300> <STRONG>ahhh juicing pulp. we love ye.</STRONG></P><P>I recall feeling sad <A title="The Tornado is FIVE!" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2010/12/01/wordless-wednesdaybirthday-edition/" target="_blank">when she turned five</A> because it felt as if she werent little any more.</P><P><STRONG>Five *sounded* so grown up & I feared both the change</STRONG> (school! no more 24/7 sidekick!)</EM><STRONG> and the unknown of her getting older.</STRONG></P><P>I wasnt sure I’d like it. In fact I was fairly confident Id dislike it.</P><P>Three years later Im amazed how it’s only gotten better.</EM></P><P><STRONG>Gone are days of spontaneous, inexplicable tantrums and here are days of burgeoning ability to reason and emerging sense of ‘doing unto others.’</STRONG></P><IMG title="Eight mitzvahs." class="size-medium wp-image-18106" alt="1392615 10152302123944466 777074260 n 300x225 Eight mitzvahs." src="/139261510152302123944466777074260n-300x225.jpg" width=300 height=225> <STRONG><3 <3</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>We’re a family who strives to live the notion of <A title="Service is the rent we pay for living." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2010/05/18/service-is-the-rent-we-pay-for-living/" target="_blank">service being the rent we pay for living</A>.</STRONG></P><P>More than caring about the Tornado’s career-path, whether she marries or *any* of those things I care–tremendously–she’s grateful, giving and realizes “there but for the grace of G-d go I.</EM>”</P><P>After watching bloggy friends do good deeds in honor of birthdays I suggested to the Tornado she do the same to celebrate hers.</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>Eight <A title="What is a mitzvah?" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitzvah" target="_blank">mitzvahs</A> to celebrate turning eight.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P><STRONG>I completely abdicated to her what the deeds would be</STRONG> (which, like <A title="Gratitude boards & 5 year olds." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2011/07/11/gratitude-boards-5-year-olds/" target="_blank">letting her find her gratitude</A>, I found surprisingly challenging!).</P><P>S<STRONG>ome were easy & fun </STRONG>(play-dates/mom-time)<STRONG> while others forced her <STRONG>entirely</STRONG> out of her comfort-zone </STRONG>(interacting with the homeless & introducing herself to new people)<STRONG>.</STRONG></P><P>The whole process, from creation to checking off list, was an opportunity for me to watch and appreciate how <A title="We're moving!" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2012/11/01/im-moving/" target="_blank">she’s grown in the past year</A>.</P><P>Im aware the days of I want! I want! </EM>may be right around the proverbial corner–but celebrating eight with I give! I give! </EM>was a <A title="What is helpers high?" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helpers_high" target="_blank">Helper’s High</A>-filled experience we both learned from.</P><P>About ourselves and about each other.</EM></P><P>And yes.</P><P><STRONG>Ive committed, at her request, to 45 mitzvahs before I turn 45 culminating with a <A title="Take What You Need Day!" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/04/10/grab-laptop-fire-up-printer-join-me/" target="_blank">TAKE WHAT YOU NEED Day</A>!<BR></STRONG></P><P>Look out OAKtown.</EM></P><P>Later.</P><P>First?<STRONG></STRONG></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>It’s time to celebrate eight.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><IMG title="Eight mitzvahs." class="size-medium wp-image-18118" alt="534216 10152107623514466 693857108 n 300x300 Eight mitzvahs." src="/53421610152107623514466693857108n-300x300.jpg" width=300 height=300> <STRONG>unapologetically herself.</STRONG></P><A id=dd_end></A><br /><p><a href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/27/eight-mitzvahs/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-29759287665498344662013-12-05T23:00:00.000-08:002013-12-05T23:00:09.367-08:00Virtual Turkey Trot Update <P>Happy Thanksgiving!</P><P>I had the BEST day. Ever!</P><P>Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because we get to just… be. I don’t mind cooking all day if it means I get to enjoy a great meal with my family. It’s just a fun, relaxing holiday.</P><P>I was hoping to get everyone out for <A href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/10/ronis-virtual-turkey-trot.html" target="_blank">my first ever Virtual Turkey Trot</A> but with a temperature reading of 19 we decided it wasn’t a good idea for the kids. Instead I strapped on my shoes and got in a relaxing 5 miles. Sounds funny, I know, but it’s true. With a house full of family it was nice to have a few minutes to myself. Plus I actually enjoy running in the cold. I bundle up with my hat, gloves and scarf and after a few minutes I’m comfortable.</P><P>Here I am afterwards all sweaty.</P><IMG class="aligncenter wp-image-20081" alt="Screen shot 2013-11-28 at 8.16.15 PM" src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-28-at-81615-PM.png" width=550></P><P>When I got back I put out the veggie tray and cheese and crackers and we snacked and cooked. I don’t want to pat myself on the back but I will… my turkey came out AWESOME!</P><IMG class="aligncenter wp-image-20082" alt="Screen shot 2013-11-28 at 8.21.24 PM" src="/Screen-shot-2013-11-28-at-82124-PM.png" width=550></P><P>This is the sixth time I’ve hosted Thanksgiving and I think I finally have it down pat. Thankfully my mom and mother-in-law help clean up after me as I go because I am a MESSY cook.</P><P>I did add <A href="http://greenlitebites.com/2013/11/14/green-beans-and-bacon/" target="_blank">a new side dish</A> this year AND my very own cranberry sauce!</P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20086" alt=20131128_1454 src="/201311281454.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>Anyway, I’m sneaking a moment after dessert, movie watching and game time to announce the winners of <A href="http://www.razoo.com/story/Judy-S-4-Paws-For-Ability-Campaign#_=_" target="_blank">Judy’s 4 Paws for Ability fundraising Turkey Trot campaign</A>. Everyone who donated $50 or more was automatically entered. Note: I used random number generator to pick the winners.</P><STRONG>5 Vitalicious cases with your choice of their top-seller VitaTops or VitaCakes. Donated by Vitalicious!</STRONG><BR>- Megan B.<BR>- Shannon M.<BR>- Jeremy L.<BR>- Christina S.<BR>- Shannon S. <STRONG>3 prize packs that will include NEW Mini Babybel Mozzarella style, Light, Original and White Cheddar. Donated by The Laughing Cow</STRONG><BR>- Rene C F.<BR>- Susan S.<BR>- Jennifer R.2 <A href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BWYQ9YE/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BWYQ9YE&linkCode=as2&tag=roswewapas-20">Kindle Fire HDX 7?, HDX Display, Wi-Fi, 16 GB</A>. Donated by me.<BR>- Brenda K. S.<BR>- Hannah C.<P>I’ll be in direct contact with the winners next week. I can’t thank them and everyone enough. We were able to raise $4,660 toward our goal of $13,000 for my niece’s service dog. Even though we held the Turkey Trot fundraiser specifically to raise funds for the campaign we will be collecting donations until our goal is reached – <A href="http://www.razoo.com/story/Judy-S-4-Paws-For-Ability-Campaign" target="_blank">click here to help!</A></P><P>Thanks again and from my family to yours…</P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20087" alt=1484010_10151746087361456_1556930524_o src="/1484010101517460873614561556930524o.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P><STRONG>Happy Thanksgiving!</STRONG></P><br /><p><a href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/11/virtual-turkey-trot-update.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-83901622827174252392013-12-05T18:35:00.000-08:002013-12-05T18:35:01.553-08:00Food Find: Fuel for Fire: Fruit + Protein <P>Hey guys! I had a few hours to myself this morning so I decided to get a little workout in at a CrossFit gym just a few blocks from the hotel. It’s called <A href="http://www.crossfitsolcity.com/" target="_blank">SolCity</A> and they let me pop into their morning class.</P><P>They also had a really intriguing product for sale so I decided to pick up a few to review in a quick video this morning …</P><P>Please excuse the quality. Not that my other videos have high production values or anything but I recorded this one straight to YouTube. I’ve never done that before.</P><P><STRONG>Let me know in the comments what you think about Fuel For Fire or if you tried them before. I really like the idea of a protein-filled fruit pouch. Great for snacking on the go, or dorm rooms, or office drawers. Places where keeping fresh foods aren’t really an option. </STRONG></P><br /><p><a href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/11/food-find-fuel-for-fire-fruit-protein.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-16854809308963800862013-12-05T13:57:00.000-08:002013-12-05T13:57:01.670-08:00Happy December! <P>This Sensational Sunday was jam packed with holiday awesomeness! And it all started with a morning to myself.</P><P>I woke up a little before 7 to a quiet house giving me some time to set up my new Fitbit!</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20106" alt=20131201_AA src="/20131201AA.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>I couldn’t help myself when I saw <A href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=836572&b=286239&m=31379&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Efitbit%2Ecom%2Fforce" target="_blank">the Force</A> on Black Friday. So far I love it. It’s a little bigger than I anticipated but the display is great!</P><P>Before I knew it, this guy came wandering down to play Connect Four.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20105" alt=20131201_A src="/20131201A.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>Then this guy joined us and we did a few puzzles.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20107" alt=20131201_B src="/20131201B.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>Of course I had to put them to work. It was time to clean up the Thanksgiving mess and prepare for Christmas.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20108" alt=20131201_C src="/20131201C.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>A quick break for breakfast.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20109" alt=20131201_D src="/20131201D.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>That’s leftover Brussels sprouts and egg scramble with a half whole wheat English muffin topped with almond butter and strawberry jelly.</P><P>I’m trying to eat more balanced at meal times instead of just “light.” I’m training for my second CrossFit competition and have been working out a lot. To be honest, I’m loving it. Especially the Olympic lifting. This was me on Saturday.</P><P>TRYING to get better at the snatch. It’s really challenging for me in a good way.</P><P>Anyway, we prepared the living room for decorating.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20110" alt=20131201_E src="/20131201E.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>We went down to get the tree only to discover the disaster zone.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20111" alt=20131201_F src="/20131201F.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>I made the kids clean up before continuing with the decorating. It apparently wiped them out.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20112" alt=20131201_G src="/20131201G.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>Once we got upstairs everyone had a job. :)</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20113" alt=20131201_H src="/20131201H.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>It was so fun to decorate with the Christmas music blasting. We found the perfect spot for my new ornaments The Husband gave me last year.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20114" alt=20131201_I src="/20131201I.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>If you don’t know <A href="http://ronisweigh.com/2008/12/a-couples-history-in-ornaments.html" target="_blank">the ornament story, click here.</A></P><P>Lunch break!</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20115" alt=20131201_J src="/20131201J.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>I made a huge salad with <A href="http://greenlitebites.com/2010/09/19/simply-roasted-beets/" target="_blank">leftover beets</A>, smoked Cheddar and raspberry vinaigrette. It was delicious!</P><P>After nap and lunch I took the boys to Target to pick up a few supplies.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20117" alt=20131201_L src="/20131201L.jpg" width=550 height=539></P><P>They were driving me CRAZY but we had a good time.</P><P>When we got back, Dad had the Lego Winter Village set up!</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20118" alt=20131201_M src="/20131201M.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>We had some snacks and I helped the 8-year-old with a fun little project he came up with.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20119" alt=20131201_N src="/20131201N.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>My snack was yogurt with almonds, cocoa nibs, cinnamon and honey.</P><P>The project was a cover for his loom rubber band holder.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20120" alt=20131201_O src="/20131201O.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>The Husband called us out to see the lights.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20121" alt=20131201_P src="/20131201P.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>Perfect!<BR><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20122" alt=20131201_Q src="/20131201Q.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>The boys then cleaned up…</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20123" alt=20131201_R src="/20131201R.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>… and worked on some Legos while I prepared dinner.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20124" alt=20131201_S src="/20131201S.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>We had homemade turkey soup, which everyone devoured!</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20125" alt=20131201_T src="/20131201T.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>And leftovers of course.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20126" alt=20131201_U src="/20131201U.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>After dinner we cleaned, danced and ran around like maniacs.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20127" alt=20131201_V src="/20131201V.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>After The 2-year-old went to bed, I set up <A href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/11/fitbit-flex-vs-the-one.html" target="_blank">the Fitbit Flex</A> for The 8-year-old.</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-20128" alt=20131201_W src="/20131201W.jpg" width=550 height=367></P><P>He’s been fascinated by it ever since I got it so I let him wear it all day and the little bugger beat me by 2,000 steps!</P><P><IMG class="aligncenter wp-image-20129" alt="Screen shot 2013-12-01 at 9.38.16 PM" src="/Screen-shot-2013-12-01-at-93816-PM.png" width=550></P><P>I told him it was because he had shorter legs. ;)</P><P>I decided to take a rest day today so no run or workout but just by cleaning, decorating and playing I hit my 10,000-step goal. Not too shabby! (Note: see the spike around 6:30? That was our dance party.)</P><P>Once both kids where done I snacked on a banana with some cocoa powder. I didn’t take a photo but I’ll share on <A href="http://greenlitebites.com/" target="_blank">GreenLiteBites</A> this week. It’s my new snack obsession but it’s pretty weird. You’ll see.</P><P><STRONG>I’m off. I have a date at the gym tomorrow bright and early! Hope you had a great weekend!</STRONG></P><br /><p><a href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/12/happy-december.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-80486054377985024972013-12-05T09:25:00.000-08:002013-12-05T09:25:00.101-08:00Proven Methods to Avoid Stomach Flu <P>I do my best to activate ninja action moves when it comes to staying healthy and germ-free. I eat right, diligently research and <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.goldenglow.com.au/supplements');" href="http://www.goldenglow.com.au/supplements" target="_blank">shop for natural health supplements</A>, self-educate, gather healthy intel, apply what works, and share it with you all. But the stomach flu seems to be a whole ‘nother beast — a higher power of sickness that attacks anyone in its path… or does it?</P><P>I didn’t know it was possible to avoid the stomach bug. I thought we were all hopeless and at the mercy of a vomit-fest whenever it felt the whim to grip us. When Greedy Baby started barfing last week, I thought, “How can I avoid catching this? Is there a way, if at all possible, that I can fight back to protect the rest of my family from getting sick?”</P><P>It seemed like a lost cause, but after a half-day’s worth of research, what I learned successfully prevented the rest of my family from getting the stomach bug: The key is to keep your body in an alkaline state. There are particular tools to do this.</P><P>The stomach flu does NOT like alkaline. The virus thrives in an acidic environment. If you’ve already got the bug you’ll just have deal, but if you’ve been exposed and not yet showing symptoms, you need to get your body into an alkaline state immediately.</P><P><STRONG>WHAT IS ALKALINE VS. ACIDIC? </STRONG>In a nutshell, alkaline foods enable the body’s cell to take in more oxygen, whereas acidic foods do a bang-up job of depriving cells of oxygen, leading to sickness and disease. The key is to keep the body in the proper pH state. <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.naturallifeenergy.com/alkaline-foods-support-healthy-living/');" href="http://www.naturallifeenergy.com/alkaline-foods-support-healthy-living/" target="_blank">This key article</A> provides a thorough explanation of why alkaline is so important, and includes a helpful reference link to <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.naturallifeenergy.com/alkaline-vs-acidic-foods/');" href="http://www.naturallifeenergy.com/alkaline-vs-acidic-foods/" target="_blank">alkaline and acidic foods</A>.</P><P>When you maintain alkaline as a way of living, you decrease your chances of not only getting the bug, but you also become a heavy-hitter in successfully fighting back against diseases like cancer.</P><P><STRONG>Let’s touch on what to do immediately if you’re at risk for stomach bug. Although nothing in life is guaranteed, these methods are tried and proven by tons of people:</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>Welch’s 100% Grape Juice: </STRONG>This kept coming up in my Interwebs research — mostly in forums and on parenting websites where moms shared how this particular juice was effective at boosting their family’s resistance against the bug. I had an aha moment when I read this. Why? Because I drank 100% grape juice daily to combat extreme nausea when I was pregnant with Greedy Baby. This may give credence to the idea that keeping your body in an alkaline state also helps to combat morning sickness. >> <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/musthavemom.com/2012/01/stomp-out-stomach-flu-with-grape-juice.html');" href="http://musthavemom.com/2012/01/stomp-out-stomach-flu-with-grape-juice.html" target="_blank">How to Prevent Stomach Flu: Grape Juice is the Trick </A></P><P><STRONG>Apple Cider Vinegar:</STRONG> THIS is so important! While I didn’t have Welch’s on hand when Greedy Baby got sick, I did have Apple Cider Vinegar. The <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004CHQ1SM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004CHQ1SM&linkCode=as2&tag=yumyuc-20');" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004CHQ1SM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004CHQ1SM&linkCode=as2&tag=yumyuc-20" target="_blank">Bragg Organic Vinegar Apple Cider</A><IMG title="Proven Methods to Avoid Stomach Flu" border=0 alt=" Proven Methods to Avoid Stomach Flu" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=yumyuc-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B004CHQ1SM" width=1 height=1> is pretty much the most respected brand around, but use whatever you have on hand in a pinch. I gave the vinegar to my family: 2 teaspoons diluted in water for adults; 1 teaspoon diluted in water for the kids. Squeezes of fresh lemon juice in the water as well. It will be extremely bitter, but just do it. Not only does this vinegar promote the proper pH, it also helps control weight and removes toxins.</P><P><STRONG>Probiotics:</STRONG> This helps to put your digestive system into proper balance. There is sooo much info out on there probiotics to prevent stomach flu, so do your Google-ing, sit back and enjoy the educational reading saga. Look into <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&pageMinusResults=1&suo=1385346967754&tag=yumyuc-20&url=search-alias%3Daps#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_18?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=garden%20of%20life%20probiotics&sprefix=garden+of+life+pro%2Caps%2C258&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Agarden%20of%20life%20probiotics&sepatfbtf=true&tc=1385346970607');" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&pageMinusResults=1&suo=1385346967754&tag=yumyuc-20&url=search-alias%3Daps#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_18?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=garden%20of%20life%20probiotics&sprefix=garden+of+life+pro%2Caps%2C258&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Agarden%20of%20life%20probiotics&sepatfbtf=true&tc=1385346970607" target="_blank">Garden of Life probiotics</A>. Their product line is well-reviewed by consumers and includes probiotics for children.</P><P>I’m loving the way natural health alternatives release the choke hold of “no-mercy” and put the power of health back in our hands. We are not at the mercy of Big Pharma in every situation of sickness, nor are we sentenced to an automatic barf-fest just because we’re exposed to the stomach flu. Nature provides what we need to stay well. I encourage you to do your own research and decide what best for you and you family.</P><P>Stay well, my friends! Because the stomach flu?? Ain’t nobody got time fo’ that.</P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.facebook.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.facebook.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Like me on Facebook</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.twitter.com/yumyucky');" href="http://www.twitter.com/yumyucky" target="_blank">Follow me on Twitter</A></P><P>v <A onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY');" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=YUMYUCKY" target="_blank">Subscribe to YumYucky on YouTube</A></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.yumyucky.com/2013/11/avoid-stomach-flu-vomit.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8167372638161642401.post-23069542367063400922013-12-05T06:24:00.000-08:002013-12-05T06:24:00.704-08:00What are you GIFTING yourself? <A id=dd_start></A><P><IMG title=mizfit_gc2 class="size-medium wp-image-8757 aligncenter" alt="mizfit gc2 300x133 What are you GIFTING yourself?" src="/mizfitgc2-300x133.png" width=300 height=133></P><P>Ahhhh.</P><P><STRONG>If you live in the USA you may still be feeling the, uh, repercussions of the great Thanksgiving Stress-Out</STRONG>.</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="8"><P>Family, food, schedules thrown for a loop, routine replaced by mayhem.</EM></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P><STRONG>No matter where you reside or what you celebrate we’re all thisclose</EM> to being knee-deep in holiday frenzy.</STRONG></P><P>Ive shared my tips for <A title="Frighting Holiday Frazzle" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2010/11/15/holiday-e-a-t-s/" target="_blank">Fighting Holiday Frazzle</A>.</P><P>They were fantastic tips (according to my mom, anyway)</EM>, yet they were generalities.</P><P><STRONG>Vague What *I* do to stave off holiday stress </EM>musings in hopes they’d spark thoughts/insights for you.</STRONG></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>Today we’re about the concrete.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>About building a long & creative list of <STRONG>specific actions</STRONG> we can take to make these next 3 weeks as smooth as we can.</P><P>A list this misfit Jew can steal, print, hang on my fridge & use as a “go to” when at a loss for ways to lighten my holiday load.</P><P><STRONG>A list to make our Holiday Season 2013</EM> fun, frazzle-free and PRESENT so we can cruise into 2014 as our best & most healthy selves.</STRONG></P><P>I’ll start us off.</P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG><A title="A MizFit Hanukkah." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2009/12/18/a-mizfit-hanukkah/">Hanukkah ends</A> Thursday night.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>The thing is, a result of my being as busy as a <A title="RAWWWRRRRRRRR" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/07/im-not-supposed-to-write-this-post/" target="_blank">COUGAR</A> Hanukkah Harry,<STRONG> I realized only a few weeks ago <A title="Thanksgivukkah" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thanksgivukkah" target="_blank">Thanksgivukkah</A> was year.<BR></STRONG></P><P>Upon that realization, right in that moment</EM>, I bestowed upon myself the gift certificate pictured above.</P><P><STRONG>I immediately recognized how *crazy* card creation would make me </STRONG>(I love personalized photocards. I caint mail said-card without heartfelt note inside)</EM><STRONG> if I attempted to make/mail before 12.5.13.</STRONG></P><P><STRONG>I immediately acknowledged, while some things necessitate holiday hecticness </STRONG>(preparing for company, purchasing gifts on time, decorating before Hanukkah is OVER)</EM><STRONG>,</STRONG><STRONG> this was not one of those things.</STRONG></P><BLOCKQUOTE readability="5"><P><STRONG>I immediately gave myself the gift(certificate) of time.</STRONG></P></BLOCKQUOTE><P>It’s not an exaggeration to say, after releasing myself from that obligation, I felt as though <A title="BREATHING beats back energy VAMPIRES." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/11/04/five-healthy-habits-for-beating-energy-vampires/" target="_blank">I could b-r-e-a-t-h-e</A> again.</P><P><STRONG>I felt so *ENERGIZED* by the sweet, sweet gift of freedom I started us a list of stuffs we could gift ourselves these next few weeks.</STRONG></P><STRONG><A title="You’re not a priority right now." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/09/23/youre-not-a-priority-right-now/" target="_blank">Never say YES</A> when your heart & head is screaming NO.</STRONG><STRONG>If you have a vacation from work dont use *all* the time for others <A title="Creating a Personal First Aid kit." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/08/26/personal-first-aid-kits-bay-area-redo/" target="_blank">dedicate some to self-care</A>.</STRONG><STRONG>(should you be a weigh’er) Bestow upon yourself <A title="The Power of the Scale." href="http://mizfitonline.com/2009/04/08/1059/" target="_blank">a break from the scale</A>.</STRONG><STRONG>No! More! <A title="MUSTurbation" href="http://mizfitonline.com/2008/08/11/monday-facetime-musturbation-its-time-to-s-t-o-p/" target="_blank">MUSTurbation</A>. Do <A title="#WYCWYC " href="http://ronisweigh.com/2013/09/the-wycwyc-challenge.html" target="_blank">what you can when you can</A> & shed the shoulds & oughts.</STRONG><STRONG>Please to hit us all up with your number five below…</STRONG><BR></EM><A id=dd_end></A><br /><p><a href="http://mizfitonline.com/2013/12/02/what-are-you-gifting-yourself-2/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p>Haohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03986383770578589944noreply@blogger.com0