Yay it's snack time! But wait...

So your kids just walked in the door and are asking for a snack. You have no idea what to serve them because you have been so busy and don't have anything on hand.

The best idea? Make a huge bag of this every Sunday and it will last you all week(maybe!):

*Low Fat Granola

*Sunflower seeds(just seeds, no shells)

*Dried cranberries(or apricots, mango, raisin-your choice)

Mix them all together in a large ziploc bag. Pour into a bowl, gather 'round the table, and talk about your kids' day. It's a surefire snack kids of all ages will love!

Need something sweet and salty? Try this combo:

*Mini pita chips

*Mini chocolate chips

*Soy nuts

Don't forget to make extra for yourself on that long day of errands!

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Bring on the soreness!

As I shut down the week and gear up for the weekend(which I LOVE) I prepare for another accomplishment. I am running a half marathon tomorrow with my girlfriend. 13.2 miles of movin', groovin', and laughin'! I have done 2 so far so know what to expect.
People ask me why I would run that far and for that long(about 2 hrs for me). I can't really explain it. Why do some people skydive? Why do some people climb mountains? Why do I run? Because I love it! It gives me a sense of accomplishment, keeps me in shape, and keeps me de-stressed. If I haven't run in a week-don't even try to reason with me! I'm a crab if I don't run, I know it; nothing to hide here.

If you are thinking if trying to get in shape or just get healthy, I totally recommend running! There are so many perks:
*Whole body workout
*Increases heart strength
*Increases bone strength(prevent osteoporosis)
*Decreased body fat
*Can increase good cholesterol(HDL)
*Reduce blood pressure

...Just to name a few

Personal perks:
*Beautiful scenery
*De-stress
*Sense of accomplishment
*Camaraderie
*Improved self-esteem

If you're thinking about starting to run here a few things to do first:
*Check with your doctor (make sure you have no health risks)
*Find a local running specific store(they can measure your foot and tell you which kind of shoes you need)
*Try some online training programs (Hal Higdon and Jeff Galloway have great beginner programs)

Good luck and happy running!

From the Farmer to Me!

As you probably know by now, my family loves to eat healthy! I am always on the lookout for healthy foods. We finally live in an area with farmers' markets. I can not get enough of them! We go as often as we can, at least twice a month. It is the best place to find fresh, local produce. Most vendors will let you taste the fruit before you buy, which can turn your "maybe" into a "for sure" or a "no way". I love it!

Why are farmers markets so great?

-You get to taste before you buy

-You support your local economy

-You know where it came from, 'cause you live there

-Same day freshness

-Better bang for your buck

-You can learn about new fruits and veggies

We discovered Israeli melon-like a canteloupe but white and sweeter.

With all the talk about global warming and keeping our planet green; a farmer's market is one easy and enjoyable way to do you part. The food doesn't travel far, so there's minimal pollution. Many farmers grow without pesticides, better for the environment and for you.

To find your local farmers' market check here and here.

Sneak in Those Veggies!

Ever had a hard time getting your kids to eat their veggies? I bet you did! We went to our local farmer's market last Thursday and watched the cooking demo. I learned how to "Take my Squash to the Next Level"! It was fabulous. Here is a recipe that was FABULOUS!!!

Zucchini-Cilantro Dip

You'll need:

1.5 lbs shredded zucchini (I used my food processor)

1 (8oz) can garbanzo beans

1 c cilantro leaves

1 clove garlic

3 tbs rice vinegar (I used balsamic and it was great)

3 tbs olive oil

1 tbs lime juice

1 jalapeno pepper(optional)

Here's what to do:

1. spread zucchini on dish towel and sprinkle 3/4 tsp salt. Let sit 5 min. Roll zucchini in towel and squeeze out liquid.

2. In food processor combine zucchini, garbanzo beans, cilantro and garlic; process until smooth. Add vinegar, oil, lime juice, and jalapeno. Pulse until mixed.

3. Serve with chips, baby carrots, cucumber slices, or pita chips.

We tried it last night over my baked fish....Delicious!

Need an extra workout? Have the kids help!

My daughter is right at that age where she wants to imitate everything I do, everything. From the way I push her grocery cart to how I exercise. Today was abs after our daily run. I usually do most of my ab work on the exercise ball. I was in the middle of my third set of crunches when my 18 month old daughter comes and lays right on my stomach. First I laughed, then I got an idea! I held her right there on my stomach and got an extra workout. It probably helped that I was laughing while crunching, adding more to the exercise.

Here are some other ways to involve your kids in your workout:

-Lie on your back and put her on your shins. Lift her up and down while making airplane noises.

-Have your toddler sit on your back or bum while doing push ups, beware this will wear you out!

-Lie on your back and hold her around the ribs. Lift up and down, again using airplane noises.

-Have him sit on your stomach while doing crunches.

Want to workout your toddler or preschooler's mind? Have her count your reps!

Whipped Strawberry Lemonade recipe

I just came across this recipe from my stash. I believe it's from Fitness magazine.
Whipped Straberry Lemonade:

8 large strawberries, stems and leaves removed
1 C sparkling mineral water(I bet Sprite would be great too!)
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tbs Honey
4 mint leaves

Combine all ingredients in blender and puree. Serve over ice if you prefer. ENJOY!!!

Here we go!

Hello to all tuning in. I hope you find this blog helpful. I am a stay at home mom of a beautiful 18 month old little girl. I'm also a military wife. Here you'll find a variety of topics from fitness to parenting to cooking to you name it! Check back often, as I will try to post every day. ENJOY!