Taking Care of Yourself Tuesday: Feed Yourself Well

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This week’s idea is pretty simple.  Feed yourself well.

I was the queen of seeing to my family’s needs and neglecting my own and that included eating.  I would get up before everyone else in the morning and get laundry going and breakfast ready for my family to sit down and enjoy it. Then I would get busy making lunches or cleaning up and wouldn’t actually sit down to eat until 9 or 10.  Lunch would be the same story.  I ate last and would eat whatever was quick and easy.

Big mistake!

I started having health issues (adrenal fatigue, hormone issues and handling stress very poorly) and one of the first things I found out was effecting me was not eating well and eating to support my body.  This meant eating within an hour of waking, eating lots of protein and eating every few hours.  My poor eating was largely contributing to my poor health which took me months to overcome.

"chinese" chicken salad

It can seem like just another thing to add to your busy schedule to plan healthy meals for yourself and to make sure you always have snacks ready but it is worth it!  You will feel better, probably look better, and have energy to do what you need to get done in a day.

Do you have experience with the difference of eating healthy vs. unhealthy as a mom? Care to share your story in the comments? What’s your favorite healthy snack tip?

P.S. If you need some help on what to eat I came across this eBook recently and am planning to purchase it myself.  It’s called Real {Fast} Food and it’s all about eating healthy without spending too much time on it.

real {fast} food

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What Moms Love {Weekly}

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Can you believe the school year is almost over?  We are counting the days in my home!  Today was a taste of that for me since my older 3 kids had orthodontist appointments and I decided to surprise them by keeping them out of school the rest of the day (shhh…don’t tell on us).  I am really enjoying the tween/teen years in spite of the hormones.  It can be rocky but it’s also a lot of fun.

This week I am loving a toddler that is giddy as she rolls in the grass, the last cool breezes before it get’s really hot, random hugs from momma’s boy, seeing results from a workout and taking care of myself, and Mother’s Day celebration secrets whispered between children.

How about you? What makes your list of loves this week?  I’d love to hear them!!

Here are a few finds this week that I am excited about:

1. Din Din Smart™ Stainless Bus Platter– by InnoBaby- This fun platter is made of stainless steel is great for toddlers and kids! You won’t find any BPA here and, with 5 compartments, there’s plenty of room for lots of healthy options.

2. Ele Patemm Pad in Storm White Twill (a Sprout San Fransisco Exclusive)- I think this design is super cute and I’ve heard really good things about the Patemn Pad.  If you’ve ever tried to open a diaper bag, get out a diaper, wipes and unfold a changing pad all one handed, then you will appreciate the Patemn Pad that has no zippers, buttons, or straps.  It unfolds easily and holds your diapers, wipes and a change of clothes.  I love the large round shape that is perfect for the squirmiest of little ones.

3. Sally Hansen Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips– A friend told me about these nail polish strips and they are great!  If you want a quick manicure with some really cool designs then you should try these.  You can find them at Target or order them online.  They are easy to put on and last for up to 10 days with no drying time.

4. Springfree Trampolines– My family is getting one of these trampolines this coming week.  We went last week to their store in Plano Texas and my kids had a BLAST jumping on these SAFE trampolines.  It sounds strange to call a trampoline safe because of all of the ways there are to get hurt on a trampoline but Springfree trampolines have eliminated the major ways you can get hurt on traditional trampolines.  First of all there are no springs and the sides flex with you if you jump into them. Want to see more? Watch the video here of the safety features.  If your interested in learning more about Springfree trampolines visit their website here.  Check back with Mommy Kudos next week for a more detailed review and to enter to win a Springfree Trampoline for yourself!

 Enjoy your weekend and have a Happy Mother’s Day!

Filed Under: Uncategorized, What Moms Love Weekly Tagged With: ,

Taking Care of Yourself Tuesdays: Make Yourself Up

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Today I want to challenge you to make yourself up.  No, I’m not talking about pretending to be someone you are not but rather emphasizing your best features so that you feel good about yourself.

When was the last time that you got a new shade of eye color or lip gloss?  How about the last time you put it on in a different way to try something new?  Sometimes us moms need to shake things up a bit and take some time to do things that make us feel special.  If you aren’t putting much thought into your makeup then I’d like to challenge you to do just that…this week!

Go ahead, call a makeup counter at your favorite department store or a store like Sephora or Ulta and make an appointment (perhaps on the weekend when you can leave the kids at home or go ahead and get a babysitter.  It’s worth it!). These places will do make overs for free (they do hope that you purchase something and I encourage you to purchase an item or two that you like). Let them make you over in a new way.  Tell them which feature you want to emphasize.  Ever tried a smokey eye?  Go for it! Want to wear red lipstick.  Give it a shot! Just try something new that makes you feel good about the way you look.  Make sure you ask the person to show you the techniques.

Don’t have the opportunity to go to a makeup counter for a makeover?  Ask a friend that you are always admiring her look to show you how she does it.  Or grab a magazine, search online or get a makeup book (I really like Making Faces) and follow the instructions on your own to get the desired look.  It can take practice to get it right so don’t give up if you don’t get it right the first time!

I really want to encourage you to do this this week and keep doing it on a regular basis.  Yes it will take time and energy on your part but I promise you will be glad you did once you are done! I’m taking my own advise and working on a new look this week.  I’ll be sure to post a picture soon!

I’d love to hear from you! How are you going to Make yourself up this week?

 

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What Moms Love Weekly: Favorite Finds for Moms, Babies & Kids

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This week started out not so great for me because I was sick and my husband was really sick. The week is ending well though and we are both better.  This week I am loving being prepared for next time mom gets sick, vacation planning, a little girl who says “oh, mommy I’m so sorry.” after acting up {made me smile}, free time to do something fun, and sweet friends being vulnerable and real.

Here are a few of my favorite finds this week for moms, babies and kids:

1. Finn + Emma Toys- O how I love soft, sweet baby toys and these Finn + Emma toys are even better because they are 100% organic. They are too cute! You’ll want to check out all of the different rattles, teethers, play gyms and more!

2. Finn + Emma Baby Clothing- I am also loving the 100% organic baby clothing from Finn + Emma. You can be sure your little one’s clothing is chemical free by choosing organic. I am in love with the designs for boys as they are very boyish with modern colors.  The girls clothing is very sweet and feminine.  I don’t think you can go wrong with Finn +Emma for baby gifts or for your own little one.

3. Little Girls Rompers- I could outfit my 3 year old in these all Summer! I love these easy one piece rompers that are so popular now. In fact, I remember them being a big deal when I was a kid.  They are light for hot days and perfect for play! They even dress up well! The red paisley one is from Gap and the plum colored one is by Tea Collection.

4. Land’s End Canvas Dresses– Speaking of Summer coming, Land’s End Canvas has some great dresses that are perfect for warmer weather.  Have I ever mentioned how much I love Land’s End Canvas?  I’m pretty sure I have.  They have cute, fresh and modern dresses that will look great on you.  Psst…Mother’s Day is coming up!! Maybe you should get a new dress for the occssion?!

How about you? What are you loving this week?  In case you missed it be sure to check out my guide to finding mom the perfect gift for Mother’s Day {Pass it on to your husband or kids}

 

Disclosure: some affiliate links are used in this post. I only recommend what I use and enjoy.

Filed Under: What Moms Love Weekly Tagged With: , , , ,

Cravings-The Devotional {Enter to Win One}

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You know that feeling you get when you discover something really fantastic?  I felt that little tug in my heart as I opened up Cravings- The Devotional cards and read the first one as I slid it into place on its adorable cupcake shaped holder. “This,” I thought “is just what moms need!”

The adorable cupcake holder sits on your counter top and holds devotional cards that are PERFECT for moms.  They are just what you need to be refreshed and encouraged.  Each time I changed the card I felt like the devotion for that day spoke right to my heart.  They are simple, quick, include Bible verses.  I loved that I could go back to it throughout the day rereading and attempting to memorize the verses.

It would be silly for me to ask you if you are busy.  If you are a mom, of course you are busy.  That is why I love the idea of this devotional.  Finally there is a devotional that will not just sit on your bedside table unread.  Stick this Cravings devotional in a spot you see every day like near the kitchen sink or on your bathroom counter top and you will have a daily reminder to devote moments of your day to what God wants to speak to your heart.

Cravings- The Devotional is so perfect for new moms that are still trying to get a grip on a new reality.  I plan to give Cravings as a shower or baby gifts.  It would also make a great gift for any mom, at any stage, who could use encouragement throughout her day.

About Cravings:

Cravings is a collection of card-size devotionals based on the Psalms. They are written to help mothers develop their relationship with God in the midst of motherhood.
Each card contains a scripture for the day, a “thoughtlet,” and an action idea. As moms crave the sweet morsels from God’s Word, they can draw a card from a delectable Cravings holder—a pink cupcake!—that also displays the daily card for hands-free viewing. Versatile enough to fit with any feminine décor in a dining nook, a prayer closet, a kitchen–wherever you‘d want Scripture at your fingertips. If you find you need Cravings around the home, just one may not be enough!
Cravings can be a mom’s daily devotional, a supplement to her regular quiet time, or even doubled up during the day. The set of 40 cards offers over a month’s worth of Cravings in whatever way serves the spiritual needs of individual moms.

About the author:

Carey Bailey is a recovering perfectionist, wife, proud mama and Family Life director for her church in Surprise, Ariz. On the side she loves party planning, crafting, and pursuing her dream of writing. She has a degree in religion from Westminster College and writes at her blog at www.carebaileyonline.com.

“When I became a mom I lost my God time,” says Carey Bailey. “I couldn’t figure out how to fit it in, since everything but that time was a priority. So I made note cards that I set around my house with scriptures written on them. Even when my arms were too full of babies, laundry, and diapers to pick up a Bible, I could easily read God’s words of encouragement that I was starving for”

And Cravings–The Devotional was born. Celebrate with Carey by entering her Minute-for-Mom Giveaway!

One grand prize winner will receive:

  • $50 gift card to Erin Condren Shop (Your one-stop-shop for all things awesome!)
  • $50 gift card to Victoria’s Secret® (For something pretty.)
  • $25 gift card to Bath & Body Works® (For a little spa treatment.)
  • 2 Sets of Cravings – The Devotional (For you and a friend.)
  • Scentsy Plug In and 2 Bars (A lovely scent for your space.)

Hurry, the giveaway ends on 5/12/12. The winner will be announced 5/14/12 on Carey’s blog!

Just click one of the icons below to enter! Tell your friends about Carey’s giveaway on FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter
Want to find out what others are saying about Cravings- The Devotional? Check out the Blog Tour to read more about it!
Disclosure: I received Cravings- The Devotional for free to review. The opinions shared are my own.
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