Smokin' Momma

How to Find the Perfect Shoes!

2010-10-25T13:32:00.000-05:00

Find the perfect pair of shoes, effortlessly with your personal shoe shoppers at Shoe Dazzle! If you don't like your selections, you can request new selections and you never have to buy if you don't want to. My sister is one of those women who is always rockin' a pair of fabulouse shoes with every outfit and she is the one who turned me on to Shoe Dazzle.

Get a Free a Beachbody Workout DVD!!!!

2010-09-20T21:37:00.000-05:00

Would you like to get a free Beachbody DVD? Well, I am currently hosting a giveaway in which the winner will recieve a free copy of Power Half Hour with Tony Horton!

For a chance to win this great giveaway, come on over and enter to win HERE!

Cosmetics are More than Skin Deep

2010-08-27T23:22:00.000-05:00

Tuesday, August 24, 2010 by: Heidi Fagley, citizen journalist

...Our skin is the largest organ of our body. It has the distinction of being the first line of defense for our immune system. And since what we place on our skin is absorbed into our blood stream, doesn't it make sense that what we use topically could be affecting our health?

Cosmetics are big business. Numerous products for men, women, children, and even babies have us spending millions of dollars every year. Yet what exactly are we paying for?

The fact is that less than 20% of the chemicals in products we slather and spray on our bodies have been assessed for safety by the industry's safety panel. Since 1938, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned only eight from the nearly 12,000 ingredients used in cosmetics, while our neighboring European nations have banned over 1,100....

Read Full Article Here.

That's why I love Tropical Traditions! I just received my order of face cream and am so happy to be using it again!!!! For the kids...it's Burts Bee's body wash and shampoo, and for my hair..well...I need to find something better than what I have right now. I've tried a natural shampoo and conditioner before that was supposed to be free of any chemicals...but it made my hair really dry and unmanageable. I need an extra moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Around the house I currently use Theives, by Young Living and I've tried their toothpaste as well and my mouth always feels SO clean after using it, cleaner than with any other toothpaste.

Mary Kay Microdermabrasion Set Review

2010-08-09T16:45:00.003-05:00

Don't ya just love genetics? They can be nice but it seems like often we inherit some not so nice genetic traits. I inherited "lovely" skin from my Dad's side of the family...one key identifying feature being large pores. Over time, I've learned that the only way to prevent your pores from getting bigger is by cleaning them out REALLY good. If you don't clean your pores really well, the dirt and oil builds up and stretches the pores, causing your pores to continue to get bigger and bigger. I found one product that I LOVE that really helps get my skin super clean and helps refine pores. It's the Mary Kay Microdermabrasion Set. It's a 2-step process that starts with the exfoliator that uses the same professional grade exfoliating crystals used by dermatologists. You have to be careful not to rub it into your skin too vigorously because it is pretty rough and could irritate your skin. After washing off the pore refining exfoliator, you apply the "Replenish" serum. This serum contains vitamins, antioxidants and anti-irritants and sets the smooth, refined skin you achieved after using Refine (the exfoliator).

I have really loved this product, but I do think it is a little pricey. However, as I near the end of my bottle and looking for a bargain (without becoming a Mary Kay Consultant just to get products at a 50% discount) I found that there are consultants on Amazon, selling Mary Kay Products at a discount. I got my microdermabrasion kit because a Mary Kay consultant had a drawing at our Gym and I won it. Normally I wouldn't have spent $55 on something like that, however I have found it to really help soften my skin, clean out my pores and give me overall nicer, brighter more supple looking skin.

Now, if you don't have $30-$55 to spend on a microdermabrasion kit like the one by Mary Kay, I have also learned a number of ways to shrink your pores, including much cheaper alternatives that you can concoct at home with ingredients from the kitchen to help clean and tighten pores.

I use St. Ives Apricot Scrub (can be used daily) to keep my skin (and pores) squeaky clean. After using the face scrub, follow up with a pore minimizing toner like witch hazel or Homemade Skin Toner, followed by your favorite moisturizing cream.

The apricot scrub doesn't do as good a job refining as the Mary Kay Refine exfoliator, but if you want to be frugal, it's a MUCH cheaper alternative.

You could also make your own exfoliating scrub with sugar and olive oil, but when making it for your face, opt for brown sugar over granulated because it is less course and be careful not to scrub vigorously as the sugar can be rather abrasive.

How to Make Sugar Scrub

How to Make Skin Toner

How to Make Rose Water Skin Toner

Drinking Lemon Water

2010-07-28T10:47:00.005-05:00

So yesterday I mentioned that I have started drinking a glass of water with half a lemon squeezed in and I thought I'd elaborate a bit more on that! First off, I only drink water purified by Reverse Osmosis (Culligan water refill at the grocery store works!) because the chlorine and flouride in tap water should be avoided if you have thyroid problems (I have Hashimotos). It also tastes better! I also place a strainer over my glass to catch the seeds when I squeeze the lemon.

Some of the benefits of lemon water are:

Good for stomach

Lemon can help relieve many digestion problems when mixed with hot water. These include nausea, heartburn and parasites. Due to the digestive qualities of lemon juice, symptoms of indigestion such as heartburn, bloating and belching are relieved. By drinking lemon juice regularly, the bowels are aided in eliminating waste more efficiently. Lemon acts as a blood purifier and as a cleansing agent. The intake of lemon juice can cure constipation. It is even known to help relieve hiccups when consumed as a juice. Lemon juice acts as a liver tonic and helps you digest your food by helping your liver produce more bile. It decreases the amount of phlegm produced by your body. It is also thought to help dissolve gallstones.
Excellent for Skin Care

Lemon, being a natural antiseptic medicine, can participate to cure problems related to skin. Lemon is a vitamin C rich citrus fruit that enhances your beauty, by rejuvenating skin from within and thus bringing a glow on your face. Daily consumption of lemon water can make a huge difference in the appearance of your skin. It acts as an anti-aging remedy and can remove wrinkles and blackheads. Lemon water if applied on the areas of burns can fade the scars. As lemon is a cooling agent, it reduces the burning sensation on the skin.
Aids in Dental Care

Lemon water is used in dental care also. If fresh lemon juice is applied on the areas of toothache, it can assist in getting rid of the pain. The massages of lemon juice on gums can stop gum bleeding. It gives relief from bad smell and other problems related to gums.
Cures Throat Infections

Lemon is an excellent fruit that aids in fighting problems related to throat infections, sore throat and tonsillitis as it has an antibacterial property. For sore throat, dilute one-half lemon juice with one-half water and gargle frequently.
Good for Weight Loss

One of the major health benefits of drinking lemon water is that it paves way for losing weight faster, thus acting as a great weight loss remedy. If a person takes lemon juice mixed with lukewarm water and honey, it can reduce the body weight as well.
Controls High Blood Pressure

Lemon water works wonders for people having heart problem, owing to its high potassium content. It controls high blood pressure, dizziness, nausea as well as provides relaxation to mind and body. It also reduces mental stress and depression.
Assist in curing Respiratory Disorders
Lemon water assists in curing respiratory problems, along with breathing problems and revives a person suffering from asthma.
Good for treating Rheumatism

Lemon is also a diuretic and hence lemon water can treat rheumatism and arthritis. It helps to flush out bacteria and toxins out of the body.
Reduces Fever

Lemon water can treat a person who is suffering from cold, flu or fever. It helps to break fever by increasing perspiration.
Acts as a blood purifier

The diseases like cholera or malaria can be treated with lemon water as it can act as a blood purifier.

I don't think I could ever have the discipline to do the popular master cleanse detox, but drinking a bit of lemon water everyday is a SUPER easy alternative! It's not ever something I have to force down, it's very refreshing, like lemonade without the sicky sweet flavor. Although lemons are acidic, they are very alkalizing in your body.

Start your engine everyday by drinking a glass of room temperature, lukewarm to warm, lemon water first thing every morning! This is a tip from Traditional Chinese Medicine. It's important to start your day with water everyday because of the time lapse inbetween going to bed and arising. Water hydrates your body naturally. Caffeine found in coffee, dehydrates your body. *

To get the most juice out of your lemons, have them at room temperature, then roll them around on the counter to soften them up to help the juices release when you squeeze it into your water. If you don't have lemons on hand or want something handy for when you are on the go, try N True Lemon! It's a small packet of dehydrated real lemon juice.

Quick Fixes! Sliming the Waistline Fast!

2010-07-28T01:33:00.001-05:00

Since having my second baby almost 4 months ago (already!!!) I have had a slower recovery than I had expected. I was hoping to whip myself back into shape ASAP and blog about it more motivation (to keep me accountable) BUT it hasn't really gone that way. The Pubis Symphisis Seperation (the feeling of having an axe thrown into your pubic bone) did not go away right away. Just this last week I finally gave the gym a try which felt AMAZING to work out again, just doing a basic interval workout on the elliptical. 5 minutes into my first workout, I had a HUGE smile on my face. I was in the Cardio Cinema at Golds Gym, watching a CHICKFLICK (I never get to pick those at home) and no whining or crying was to be heard...and I just felt this amazing sense of freedom and enjoyment as I began to break out into a sweat...I started to really feel alive and excited. Having Pubis Symphisis is awful, I couldn't even walk to check the mail, if I needed groceries but couldn't find a close parking spot, I would just leave and do without. At night when I had to go wee-wee while pregnant, I would have to hold onto the bed and then the walls because I felt like I could't support my own weight and it was SO painful. So being able to sweat on the elliptical felt truly amazing after being basically disabled for months.

SO, between having the baby and now, I've just had to cheat a little to slim down my midsection quickly. After the baby was born, I wore a $10 Waist Trimmers to help support my midsection and pull things back together. I really felt like it helped shrink my uterus down faster than when I had my first child because of the compression. At first I was totally skeptical about Post Pregnancy Belly Wraps But after asking around a lot, I decided it was worth a shot.

Wearing a Post Pregnancy Belly Wraps / Waist Trimmers not only helped push things back into place faster, slimming my waistline a lot faster, it gave my back some added support which felt so great and I didn't feel so self-conscious about my deflating water balloon-like post baby pooch, because it gave me a waist that I didn't really have!

Now that I'm past the stage of needing to wear a waist belt, I am onto following some of my handy tips in my eHow article How to Slim Your Waist Without Losing Weight in Other Areas.

Step 3 in the article suggests using Spanx or Lipo in a Box to Slim the Waist Fast. I recently went to Target and bought an awesome cami that does the job of sucking things in and smoothing me out really well! It's called Suddenly Skinney and was only around $16. I love that is is longer than most slimmers so you don't end up with a cut off bulge around your hips...and it also doesn't cut in around your arms and make any back fat stick out either...it's just awesome.

And I'm not going to try any cleanses while breastfeeding, but I have started drinking a full glass of water with half a lemon squeezed into it first thing every morning, then waiting about 30 minutes before eating.

Anyways...so those are my cheats for now...wearing a waist trimmer, and now the Suddenly Skinney cami for a quick fix. I'll keep you posted about how the workouts and getting back in shape are going. I only worked out 3 times last week and was already starting to have some pain come back which is super annoying, I just need it to be gone so I can do Turbo Jam or Power 90...I haven't decided which to do first! Probably Turbo Jam though...I LOVE Chalene!

Celebrity Arms!

2010-06-13T22:25:00.000-05:00

I remember growing up when I used to go to church with my parents, the women all went to what they call "relief society"...and from that is where I learned the term "relief society arms" which is when the moms and other women there pick up the arms and have that underarm jiggle. This video has a great move to target that! I know there are other terms for it, so whatever you call that saggy underarm jiggle, prevent it with some of these awesome arm toning moves!

Get the Best Legs in Hollywood!

2010-06-12T22:07:00.002-05:00

Found this little gem today! Can't wait to try these out!

Beauty Secrets from Around the World

2010-06-11T19:52:00.003-05:00

Well I was bummed recently when I needed to get a foil and a trim. The foil came out but the chick cut 6 inches off my hair when I just wanted a trim...I've been sour ever since! I can't wait to try some of these tips that include helping hair grow faster and stronger as well as the natural highlights, then maybe I can avoid paying so much to get some highlights and then end up losing my length. The worst part is, with my thyroid condition, my hair grows REALLY slow. Check out these beauty secrets, I'm printing them out so I always have them on hand!!!

Beauty Secrets from Around the World

By Amanda Greene

When it comes to beauty routines, the grass is always greener. Japanese women have it made with their long, glossy hair and Greek women’s olive-toned complexions are always luminous. But how do they do it? Put down your passport—you won’t need to go anywhere to find out. We got insider beauty information from experts on how women across the globe stay gorgeous. Read on to find out their secrets, and learn how you can recreate them at home.

Australia

Australian makeup artist Napoleon Perdis says yarrow extract is used by Australian Aboriginal women to prevent stretch marks, thanks to its moisturizing and hydrating properties. “Yarrow root is also an anti-inflammatory, which soothes the skin.” Calm your complexion with his Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Primer , which contains the extract as a key ingredient.

Chile

Chilean women credit the antioxidant powers of red grapes for their luminous skin. They create a paste by mashing up a handful of the fruit and adding 2 tablespoons of white flour. They then apply the mask to their face and leave it on for 10 minutes before washing it off. “It wakes up the appearance of tired and fatigued skin to give you an amazing glow,” says Shalini Vadhera, author of Passport to Beauty

Dominican Republic

“If you ever meet a Dominican woman, look at her nails––chances are they’re super-strong,” says Vadhera. What’s their secret? Women in the Dominican Republic swear by garlic to keep their nails tough as…well, nails. They chop up fresh garlic, add it to a bottle of clear nail polish and let it stew for 7 to 10 days. “There will be an initial smell, so if you want to ward off vampires this is a great way to do it,” jokes Vadhera. “But the scent goes away. Garlic has so many strengthening properties and is naturally antibacterial as well.”

Egypt

According to Vadhera, Cleopatra’s beauty secret was taking milk baths to soften her skin and remove dead cells. To try the treatment at home, Vadhera recommends adding 2 cups of powdered milk to your bath. “It will make your skin look absolutely gorgeous and feel so smooth, silky and soft.”

France

“The French woman sticks to a scrupulous and preventive skin and body care routine,” says Shannon Gallogly, lead aesthetician for French beauty brands Decleor and Carita. “This means she has weekly facials, regular massages and religiously takes her makeup off each night.” Gallogly’s recipe for an at-home facial without the price tag of a spa version: Mash up cherries and pomegranate seeds and apply as a mask to the skin for about 6 minutes. “This mask will help brighten skin with natural enzymes while firming at the same time.” Remove the mixture with a warm towel to help boost circulation.

Greece

“Greek women are blessed with Mediterranean skin, which is light in color but has enough melanin to shield and absorb harmful UV rays,” says New York City dermatologist Macrene Alexiades, MD, PhD, who is half Greek. But even if you aren’t genetically blessed, you can still take a cue from the women of Greece. “There are other factors that contribute to their glowing complexion: They eat a Mediterranean diet high in fish, which provides skin-rejuvenating omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as fruits and vegetables, which provide antioxidants and vitamins. They also believe their intake of olive oil contributes to their great skin." So, start reaching for the olive oil instead of butter for better skin.

Israel

Cygalle Dias, owner of New York City’s Cygalle Healing Spa, was born in Israel and believes in the healing powers of sea salt. “When you swim in the Dead Sea, all of the salt helps your body rid itself of toxins, and it has also been known to help cure skin diseases.” To get the detoxifying benefits of sea salt at home, Dias shares her spa’s Lavender Sea Salt Scrub recipe: Mix together ¼ cup sea salt, 1 pinch seaweed powder, ½ cup massage oil and 10 to 15 drops lavender oil. Apply to skin to gently exfoliate.

Italy

How do Italian women maintain their glossy locks? According to Fabio Scalia, Italian hairstylist and owner of Fabio Scalia salon in Brooklyn, New York, the answer is right in your kitchen. Italian women keep their hair shiny by combining yogurt and olive oil and using the mixture as a conditioner. “The protein in the yogurt gently nourishes and conditions.” To whip up the rich treatment at home, Scalia recommends mixing 1 cup of plain whole-milk yogurt with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Then apply the mixture to washed hair, let it sit for 5 minutes and rinse with cool water.

Japan

Titi Branch, the half-Japanese cofounder of Miss Jessie’s hair care line, credits seaweed for Japanese women’s long, silky hair. Nori is a rich source of the trace mineral iodine, which is essential for healthy hair growth. (According to Branch, the iodine added to table salt isn’t the right kind to nourish your hair because your body doesn’t easily absorb it.) Seaweed is also a rich source of other mane-strengthening minerals—including iron, zinc, selenium and copper. “Japanese women either eat nori seaweed or boil it and apply it to dry hair as a nourishing paste.” Head to your local Asian grocer or health food store to pick up sheets of nori. “It’s traditionally used to wrap sushi, but you can use it like a tortilla to wrap up veggies with a dash of soy sauce, or crumble the sheets and sprinkle them on a salad, rice or stir-fry,” advises Branch.

Spain

Spanish women bring out natural, subtle highlights in their hair by rinsing it with cranberry juice, says Vadhera. Try mixing ¼ cup pure juice (not cocktail blends) with ¼ cup water and doing a final rinse with it in the shower. “If you’re going to be in the sun, the cranberry juice brings out the rich hues in your hair,” she says. “It works amazingly on brunettes, but if you’re blonde you’ll want to use lemon juice instead to avoid ending up with pink hair.”

Sweden

Swedish women attribute their glowing, healthy skin to their diet of antioxidant-packed fresh berries and grilled fish, says Petra Strand, Swedish makeup artist and creator of makeup line Pixi, now available at Target. Give yourself a hit of antioxidants by trying Strand’s at-home treatment: Boil mineral water with a green tea or white tea bag, let the tea infuse the water and then freeze it into ice cubes to use instead of a toner. “Saunas are also a big part of Swedish culture,” says Strand. “The dry, clean heat rids your body of toxins.” To get the effect of a sauna at home, Strand says to take a handful of rock salt and add a dash of olive oil and about 10 drops of pure eucalyptus oil. Rub it all over your body and rinse with a blast of cold water.

All photos by Shutterstock.

Sip Your Way to a Flat Belly

2010-06-10T14:16:00.004-05:00

I got really excited when I saw this article on Yahoo News yesterday! I LOVE smoothies...if you do..you'll love step 3! I'm heading to the store tonight to stock up on a variety of frozen fruits and some greek yogurt for all my smoothie making!
I'm 9 weeks postpartum and it's time for me to start TRYING to lose those last 6 pounds! The rest all just fell off on it's own within the first 6 weeks (I think breastfeeding helped a lot). So I've got 5-6 pounds to go...ideally, I should probably lose at least 15 though. According to step 3, using smoothies, I can lose 10 of those pounds right there!

Sip Your Way to a Flat Belly

Buzz up!980 votes

Eat This, Not That

by David Zinczenko

There is a potion that magically strips away pounds from your body, improves your overall health, lengthens your life, makes you more attractive to the opposite sex, and keeps you lean forever. Even better, you can have as much of this magic weight-loss potion as you want, for free, and start stripping away pounds—perhaps even several dozen pounds this year alone—without exercise, without dieting, without visiting the set of Nip/Tuck.

What is this magical elixir? It’s water.

Really? Really. You don't even need to mix in that fancy fat-burning stuff from the vitamin store. In fact, the less you supplement your food and beverage intake, the more weight you’ll lose (and the more money you’ll save). Keep reading this five-point plan from the new book Drink This, Not That! and begin your no diet weight-loss goals today. You'll sip your way to a flat belly in record time--and keep it well beyond summer.

Step 1: Swear Off the Soda and Iced Tea
(Annual Weight Loss: 18 Pounds!)

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey measured where most of our calories come from. Researchers broke up America’s food intake into 143 different categories and discovered, to their horror, that the category making up the largest percentage of our calorie intake—7.1 percent, to be exact—was not a food at all. It was soda. (Vegetables, on the other hand, accounted for only 6.5 percent of our intake. Chicken and fish together only added up to 5.7 percent.) To put that into perspective, if you ate an average of 2,500 calories a day, and you cut 7 percent of your calories, you’d automatically drop down to 2,325, a difference that would save you 1.5 pounds per month. You could be 9 pounds lighter in 6 months by going cold-turkey today! Another thing to remember: You're far better off eating your vitamins than drinking them. Here are 40 foods with scientifically proven superpowers.

Step 2: Drink 8 Cups of Water Every Day
(Annual Weight Loss: 26 Pounds!)

Yes, the magic elixir really does have amazing powers. In one study, a group of 173 overweight women were put through diet and nutrition training using mainstream diet programs. Researchers then followed them for 10 months, with dietary and body composition being recorded up to 12 months after the classes. All women in the program lost weight, but those drinking more water lost more weight. Drinking more than 1 liter of water per day (nearly 4½ cups) was associated with an extra 5.07 pounds lost in 12 months.

And researchers from the University of Utah found that people who drink the most water have higher metabolisms. In a study, subjects drank 4, 8, or 12 cups of water each day. Those who drank at least 8 cups reported better concentration and higher energy levels, and tests showed that they were burning more calories than the 4-cups-a-day group.

Of course, if you're looking to lose weight, diet is only half the equation. For the other half, check out our list of the 100 best fitness tips ever written. Your best beach body awaits!

Step 3: Enjoy One, Two, or Even Three Yogurt-Based Smoothies a Day
(Annual Weight Loss: 10 Pounds!)

I love the sound of a cranking blender. But a combination of ice, dairy, and fruit does more than just make a teeth-rattling cacophony in your kitchen. It also helps strip pounds from your body.

There are three simple reasons why: Smoothies take little time to make (so you can quash your hunger pangs quickly), they’re packed with nutrition (especially if you start with Greek yogurt and add berries, whey protein, and some flax), and their thickness takes up a lot of space in your stomach, crowding out the Doritos. In fact, researchers at Purdue University found that people stayed fuller longer when they drank thick drinks than when they drank thin ones, and a study at Penn State found that people who drank yogurt shakes that had been blended until they doubled in volume ate 96 fewer calories a day than those consuming thinner drinks.

And speaking of deceptively unhealthy foods, check our must-know roundup of 30 “Health” Foods That Aren’t. You'll be shocked to learn how smoothies, salads and veggie wraps--among other seemingly healthful fare--might be sabotaging your weight-loss goals thanks to deceptive marketing practices.

Step 4: Avoid Juice Drinks
(Annual Weight Loss: 19 Pounds!)

Imagine a world in which we called products what they really were: Hungry Man Dinners would be called Lonely Man Dinners. ESPN would be called the Fat Nerds Yap about Jocks Channel. And SunnyD would be called Obesi-D because there’s nothing sunny about a drink marketed to kids that looks and tastes like juice, but is 95 percent water and corn syrup.

While even 100 percent juice has its problems, juice drinks and their ilk are the worse offenders. One 16-ounce bottle of SunnyD Smooth packs a whopping 180 straight-up empty calories and 40 grams of sugar. If you drink one a day, cut it out. You’ll lose 19 pounds in a year!

And SunnyD is just the beginning. See the worst beverages in the supermarket for a complete list of jaw-dropping drinks--and their healthier alternatives.

Step 5: Drink Coffee, Not Coffee Drinks
(Annual Weight Loss: 18 Pounds!)

Researchers studied coffee habits in New York and found that two-thirds of Starbucks’ customers opted for blended coffee drinks over regular brewed coffee or tea. The average caloric impact of the blended drinks was 239 calories. The regular coffee or tea, by comparison, was only 63 calories after factoring in added cream and sugar. So even if you like your coffee sweet and light, you can strip away 176 calories every day, just by making this one swap.

Now, budding mathematicians among you may notice that all this adds up to a whopping 91 pounds lost in a single year. This is not good news if you weigh 125. (However, travel just got a lot cheaper because now you can mail yourself all over the world.) Fact is, unless you're currently engaging in all of the bad habits above, you probably don't have 91 pounds to lose.

But this five-point plan illustrates how extraordinarily easy it is to shed extra weight—a lot of weight—just by watching what we drink. And that, my friends, is something worth raising a glass to.

And while I'm on the subject, here are 10 more simple weight loss secrets. Read them now and start melting pounds by tonight.

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FOLLOW DAVE ZINCZENKO ON TWITTER and get FREE live-better secrets every day!

Baby Bump Fitness Review and Giveaway

2010-03-05T14:58:00.001-06:00

I just came across this program by a fellow Canadian who is the creator of Baby Bump Fitness. The focus is for soon-to-be moms and new moms. Jacqueline provides safe, quick & effective fitness solutions that really work, including workouts, rehab exercises and nutrition tips.

Recently, Jacqueline published two new E-books for sale on her site. They are Pregnancy Fitness Program and Busy Moms Fitness Program. Each E-book sells for $29.99, but three lucky winners will have a chance to win the E-book of their choice. Here is a summary of each E-book in more detail:

Jacqueline takes moms through those first post-pregnancy weeks to really focusing on getting that pre-pregnancy body back. The six-week program provides slow and steady pacing that is essential to proper progression and injury prevention. Similar to the Pregnancy workout, excellent step-by-step instructions and photos are provided. This is a great workout for travel as well. It’s super easy to just print a copy for your purse or suitcase and your workouts will always be on hand.

I'm hoping to win free copies of these ebooks to kick start my fitness and build my strength in those first few weeks post-pregnancy. You can enter to win too!

WIN FREE E-BOOKS! – To enter for a chance to win your choice of Baby Bump Pregnancy Fitness System or Baby Bump Busy Moms Fitness Program.

Visit Coach Jen at Personal Fit Coach for her review and details on how to WIN.

Hairstyles to Flatter your Face Shape

2010-03-01T17:42:00.002-06:00

The Thread, Does Your Hairstyle Flatter Your Face Shape? @ Yahoo! Video

Superfoods for Incredible Hair

2010-02-24T15:25:00.001-06:00

By Lucy Danziger, SELF Editor-in-Chief -

Iron
Iron helps bolster hair growth. Find it in meat, shellfish, fortified grains and leafy greens.

Protein
Protein is the building block of every strand, but it can be high in fat. To keep your saturated fat intake low, opt for lean cuts of meat, mix light meat with dark, or choose seafood.

Biotin, B6 and B12
Biotin, B6 and B12 promote new growth within the follicles. Good sources include whole-grain breads, oatmeal, skim milk, lowfat cheese, eggs, salmon, nuts and nut butters.

Zinc
Zinc strengthens natural oils that coat the hair shaft, creating shine. Feast on meat, nuts, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds and yogurt.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps promote cell renewal in the scalp. Get your fill in the form of brightly colored fruits and veggies. Strawberries and kiwis are surprising super sources, as are raspberries, mangoes, oranges and red bell peppers.

Vitamin A
Vitamin A is also a hair helper; look for it in apples, apricots and sweet potatoes.

Antioxidants
Antioxidants found in herbs, dark chocolate and fresh berries promote a healthy scalp by sparking cell turnover.

Want easy ways to weave these superfoods into your diet? Follow this sample menu by Lona Sandon, R.D., a spokeswoman in Dallas for the American Dietetic Association.

Breakfast:
Make your first meal rich in biotin and protein, hair’s primary components.
• Option 1: Whole-grain tortilla [BIOTIN] with 1 slice lowfat cheese [BIOTIN]; 2 scrambled eggs [BIOTIN]; 3 slices mango
• Option 2: 1 cup oatmeal [BIOTIN] with skim milk [BIOTIN] and a small handful of walnuts [BIOTIN] and dried apricots; 1/2 grapefruit

Lunch:
Munch on foods containing growth-promoting iron midday.
• Option 1: 3 oz roast beef [IRON] or turkey [IRON] on whole-wheat toast [IRON] with 1 slice lowfat cheese and 1/2 avocado (instead of mayo)
• Option 2: 3 oz grilled chicken breast; small baked sweet potato; salad of 4 cups romaine [IRON], 1/2 cup each red bell pepper and chickpeas; 1 tbsp olive oil and lemon juice to taste

Snack:
Antioxidant-rich bites between meals make for a healthy scalp.
• Option 1: 1/2 cup unsalted edamame [ANTIOXIDANTS] sprinkled with chili powder
• Option 2: 1 oz dark chocolate [ANTIOXIDANTS]; 1/2 cup raspberries [ANTIOXIDANTS AND BIOTIN]

Dinner:
Protein for your final meal boosts hair and your energy levels.
• Option 1: 2 1/2 cups veggie chili consisting of 1/2 cup each red kidney beans [PROTEIN], carrots, potato, peas [PROTEIN] and tomatoes
• Option 2: 6 oz grilled wild salmon [PROTEIN AND BIOTIN] or steak [PROTEIN]; a salad of 4 cups spinach, 1/2 cup orange slices, 1 oz goat cheese, a handful each of pumpkin seeds and raisins; 1 tbsp olive oil and lemon juice to taste

Cutesy name: Beach Hippie, 17 Hairstyles That Take Less Than 10 Minutes

2010-02-05T10:25:00.001-06:00

Cutesy name: Beach Hippie, 17 Hairstyles That Take Less Than 10 Minutes

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Maternity Jeans

2009-10-27T00:29:00.006-05:00

I must admit maternity clothes have come a long ways since our moms were pregnant with us, so I should be grateful. I finally realized I needed to pick up some maternity jeans last week when even using a rubber band to hold my pants up, they still felt so tight I started feeling faint and ended up sick in the bathroom. I tried on the pair of maternity jeans I had picked up during my previous pregnancy and could not have felt more disgusted. They made my butt and hips look incredibly wide and droopy and were not quite long enough in the inseam (a big pet peeve) no wonder I felt so self conscious during my last pregnancy. That weekend, I took the opportunity to go shopping on my own in search of some kind of maternity jeans that did not make me look like I was wearing high-waters, or a diaper. I'll admit there was a pretty decent selection of maternity jeans that look OK on the shelf. I tried on a few pairs, but quickly grew more and more depressed with my choices. They all had the same problems, they were totally unflattering, all of them were just 1/2 inch or so too short in the inseam, I didn't like the maternity band, or the denim felt more like paper than denim. Finally I decided to try on some of the expensive designer jeans just to compare and see if all maternity jeans had to be this way. Man on man was there a difference! I tried on Citizens, Sevens and Joes and they all looked so cute...and did not scream Pregnant pants! They looked just as cute as jeans should look when you aren't pregnant. I was so excited when I could turn around to check out my rear and see that it still looked like it's supposed to. And did I mention they all have like a 34 inch inseam so length is not a problem, if you need them shortened then having them hemmed to perfection is no big deal. So, after browsing the tops and seeing what a rip off they all were, I decided I would splurge on a nice pair of jeans for my pregnancy. I'm a jeans girl so this felt like a definite must have item. And based on the current fashion, you can get the rest of your tops a stores like forever 21 for cheap since most of the tops there are long and flowy and meant to go with leggings...they make perfect tops for a pregnant woman.

I decided to go with the Joe's Jeans, they looked the best and were on sale. I am loving them and I really enjoy the new secret belly fit, it is so comfortable and does not create seams or lines like my old maternity jeans did. My piece of advice after going through this is to just find the pair of jeans you like the best, try them on a figure out what size you need, then try buying them on ebay if you aren't in a rush, you could save yourself a lot of money or get them on sale through Amazon. I've posted a link below to the same pair I just purchased.

Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

2009-10-27T00:13:00.002-05:00

What's going on? That is the question poised on the safe cosmetics website, which includes EWG's Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database. You would assume your body lotion or your baby's shampoo would be safe right? Well, now you can find out just how safe many of the cosmetic products you have in your home really are. Go into the Skin Deep: Cosmetic Safety Database and look up some of the products you regularly use in your household.

I randomly searched Jergen's Moisturizing Body wash, which came up with a hazard score of 8 (out of 10) and informs you that ingredients in the product are related to cancer, developmental/reproductive toxicity, allergies and immunotoxicity, Other concerns for ingredients used in this product:
Neurotoxicity, Endocrine disruption, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Miscellaneous, Multiple, additive exposure sources, Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Enhanced skin absorption, Contamination concerns, Occupational hazards, Biochemical or cellular level changes

The report goes on with more in depth information. However, this website is not to freak you and out depress you about all the products we have access to being hazardous to our health, you can use this website to find better products. For another website that lists some links to more great natural cosmetics, click HERE.

The Makeup Face Lift

2009-08-27T18:38:00.002-05:00

Sherri Hubner, Education Executive with Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and my best friend's mom shares the secrets of the Bobbie Brown 5 step process called "The Makeup Face Lift".

Bobbi's Five Instant Look Lifters

1. Plump
Layer skincare formulas (a wet, hydrating cream under a rich dense balm) to give skin a plumped-up, cushiony look.

*Hydrating Eye Cream
*Intensive Skin Supplement
*Extra Moisturizing Balm
*Extra Soothing Balm (press into skin over foundation to give a glow to dehydrated skin)
*Extra Face Oil

2. Brighten
Lighten the under-eye area and draw your attention up with a pink or peach toned corrective concealer paired with a yellow toned concealer. Be sure to apply concealer close to the lashes and to the inner corner of the eye as well.

*Tinted Eye Brightener can be worn alone, or used before corrector and concealer if extremely dark under the eye (skip eye cream if needed)
*Suggest Tinted Eye Brightener as an option for your day off, going the gym, or to be worn with Tinted Moisture Balm

Foundation Tips:
• Focus on plumpness and illumination of the skin
• Luminous Moisturizing Foundation (Super-moisturizing with anti-aging benefits. Luminous Moisturizing Foundation is formulated with a natural collagen boosting, skin firming blend of Hexapeptides and Milk Thistle Extract. Instantly moisturizes and keeps skin hydrated all day. Softens fine lines and imperfections. Skin looks and feels refreshed, renewed and beautifully luminous. Buildable formula offers medium-to-full coverage. For Normal to Dry Skins).
• Tinted Moisturizing Balm
• Teach your customer to apply foundation like a lotion or cream, and buff it out with the Foundation Brush
• Use your hands to press foundation into skin
• Put effort into covering spots and concerns

Powder Tips:
• Powder only where needed (usually avoiding the cheeks)
• Powder around the mouth (above the lip) for those who sweat

3. Pop
Dust blush high on the apples of your cheeks

*Use multifunctional colors (Pot Rouge can be worn on cheeks and lips)
*Teach your customer to blend Pot Rouge above and below the cheek bone to give a flushed appearance to the skin
*When using Shimmer Brick, apply to the smoothest part of the skin

4. Define
When lining eyes, extend the liner ever so slightly at the outer corner of the eye. Make sure the liner is thick enough and visible when your eyes are open

*Black Gel Eyeliner (no skin should be showing along lash line)
*Use Eye Shadow to line along and slightly above Gel Eyeliner to blend out a harsh line

Eye Shadow Tips
• Highlight the brow bone (Bone, White)
• Brow bone should be the lightest part of the skin
• If doing a crease color, the height of the shadow should be at the arch of the brow bone
• Non shimmer shades are less intimidating to your "mature" customer

Mascara Tips
• Cream mascara (Everything Mascara) dries matte
• Gel Mascara (No Smudge and Lash Glamour) hold curl
• Sell two mascaras by layering a gel over a cream to get lashes that create an impact (use Everything Mascara as a lash primer)

5. Finish
After applying lipstick and pencil, layer a light shade of light reflecting, high shine lip gloss

*Concentrate lip liner on the outer corners of the mouth to give a fuller appearance
*Brightening Lip Gloss is infused with brightening pearls giving lips a luminous, glowing sheen. The effect immediately brightens and lifts your look

"I've learned that it's not about looking young for your age - it's about looking great for your age."
- Bobbi Brown

Inspired by Chapter 3 in "Living Beauty" by Bobbi Brown.

How to dress Like you Have Money

2009-08-27T18:35:00.001-05:00

Great Deals

2009-08-11T17:13:00.002-05:00

Save up to 75% off your favorite brands on Hautelook.com!

CLICK HERE to sign up for your free account and start shopping!

You know you're a MOM when....

2009-07-27T01:49:00.002-05:00

So what can I say? I'm frazzled in general I guess! I've never felt so stupid, seriously! In the last month I've driven my husbands new car over a curb in a parking lot, now the steering makes a funny noise, I left the laptop on the couch where my 2 year old was able to send it flying to it's doom, I washed and dried my husband's work phone...totally fried....he doesn't know how he's going to be able to work tomarrow since all his contacts were on that, and I almost wrecked his work computer tonight (not telling him!) looking up toddler charts when some virus thing popped up and long story short, the computer would not work until God answered my begging and pleading prayer, which ended finally with "I promise I'll volunteer for AWANA if you make the computer go back to normal!" BINGO...magically the computer went back to normal, when Windows wouldn't even start before... I think that's what motherhood will do to you. When you have kids...if you ever can't find the milk in the fridge, it's probably in the cupboard, your keys are probably still in the front door, your missing purse is on your arm and you have forgotten to put on shoes when you left the house at least once...oh and when your husband comes home and tries to kiss you, suddenly you remember that you forgot to brush your teeth that day! lol....well, at least I managed to shave my legs and throw on some mascara before church today.

(I don't even really know what AWANA is...I just saw a thing about volunteers in the bulletin at a church we visited today.....but, I guess I'm doing it! Considering that I couldn't get windows to work, or get much more than error messages in dos for 10 minutes, it all ended and worked instantly when the word's 'I promis to volunteer for AWANA' left my lips. hmmmm.....)

eHow, My Daughter and I on the Dallas Evening News

2009-07-23T22:56:00.001-05:00

View more news videos at: http://www.nbcdfw.com/video.

Fun Easy Project

2009-07-10T22:44:00.003-05:00

I just made this tutu as a birthday gift for a party we are going to in the morning. I didn't want to spend a lot of money, but I also didn't want to just give a cheap toy that would add clutter, then I remembered this eHow article I found called How to Make a Boutique Style Tutu. This took maybe an hour from start to finish and probably cost $5 at the most. I found the spool of tulle in the wedding section at JoAnns Fabric Store. (The last place in the store I looked!) I also just used an elastic headband for the waistband. This was super easy and fun, I'll be making more of these for sure! Save money and give a great gift!
(the wand in the picture was in the $1 bin by the checkout...)

A Few of My Favorite Things...

2009-06-09T13:58:00.016-05:00

Well, I had a great month of earnings last month on eHow and decided to spend a little of it on myself guilt free! I had a fun trip to the mall and picked up some summer essentials!

Number 1 item on my summer essentials list is this black Maxi Dress. I found one I LOVE at Old Navy on sale for $15. I got it in a chic black as pictured to the left (from the Old Navy website). However, any color/style of Maxi Dress this summer is a major "DO"!

Next item was the braided-Trim Camis. These are WONDERFUL! The have a slightly loose fit, giving you room to breath, while being slimming at the same time. I can wear my capris that normally give me a muffin top, but this top camoflauges any extra lumps around the middle. YAY. It is also very chic and casual. I've worn this one a lot already. Also at Old Navy. I got mine in black but am thinking of going back for more.

Mix and Match Tankini/Bikini's at Old Navy are another must have. They have an awesome selection of cute affordable swimwear!

Stripped Slub Tank from Forever 21. I picked up a couple of these in different colors. This is the perfect light weight casual tank that you will live in this summer. I'm so exicted about mine! And even more exciting? only $5.50 each!

My other favorite new item this year are my Seven for All Mankind Dojo Short (Capris). These can vary in price and are one of the more spendy items. I found a pair that was slightly damaged on eBay for $40. They are like the ones pictured here (in a slightly darker wash), that are going for $171 on Zappos.

A youthful glow or greasy goop?

2009-06-05T20:50:00.000-05:00

Some people use lips gloss on their lips, other's apparently use it on their legs! Check out Gwenyth Paltrow's overly shiney legs. It looks like she oiled them up to go sun bathing. Although it's helpful to look to celeb moms for style and beauty tips, this one is a fashion DON'T.

HOWEVER, it IS okay to dust your body with a shimmery body bronzer to add subtle sheen and definition, giving your legs, arms, shoulders and chest a more youthful glow. My favorite product for this is Bobbie Brown Beach shimmer body powder. I think it comes with a fluffy applicator. I have this myself, however, their Shimmer Brick for Body looks great too.
Visit the Bobbie Brown Website to learn how to create a beautiful, effortless looking Illuminating Bronze Look .

Fake Tan = Hot Mom

2009-06-04T22:16:00.001-05:00

Everyone looks better with a tan. I forgot how much of a difference it can make! I pulled out a bottle of self tanner today that I must have bought 2 or 3 years ago because I really don't remember having ever taken the time and effort to apply self tanner since I became a mom 2 years ago. Well, my husband was on a road trip for work and I wanted to look extra good when he came home so I pulled out the tanning lotion. I had to do it during nap time and it was a big pain to have to stand around in my room in my birthday suit for 30-40 minutes careful to not touch anything for fear of staining anything or messing up the tan. I stood and read a book (The "Hug and a Kiss and a Kick in the Pants" book actually). Anyways, Finally it dried and I was very pleased with the results. It was maybe the best application I'd ever done...minus my right ankle and the white spot in the middle of my back that I couldn't reach.

Anyways, when I looked in the mirror with my new tan, I felt like a younger version of myself again. My hair looked lighter and my teeth looked whiter. When my husband got home, he instant commented on how great I looked and he was like, "what did you do? Something is different! Did you get your hair highlighted while I was gone? It looks lighter".

Later that evening we went out to the pool and my husband and daughter played in the water while I lounged. It was so exciting looking down at tan legs rather than being BLINDED BY THE LIGHT!

It was worth the trouble and the stupid looking spot on my ankle. However, I called my sister and apparently she was applying a fake tan at the exact same time that I was (we're in sync like that), however, it only took her 10 minutes and she didn't miss or mess up any spots. Next time I'm going to use what she uses, it's called Loreal Sublime Bronze Airbrush, a tanning spray. She says it dries almost instantly, has a great color and has no smell.

YAY for fake tans!

As for indoor tanning lotion tips, I came across some solutions after the fact:

*Rub lotion around ankles and tops of feet to blend with legs.

*Use a sponge paintbrush, available at any hardware store, to apply self tanner to your back. Look for one that is from two to three inches in size. Wash before use and let it air dry. The brushes with wooden handles are better, as the plastic handles can scratch skin.

Mom Jeans

2009-06-04T22:04:00.001-05:00

Funny Mom Jeans Spoof
Funny Video! This is a spoof on how some women start wearing those high waisted pants after they get to be a certain age. You know this is true because you see women wearing them all the time.

So how do you find the PERFECT pair of jeans for your body? Well, depends on your body type, however, the muffin top and the bend over to pick-up kid butt crack show seems to be a common problem for most moms as we try to avoid the awful high waisted jeans, but then it's hard to find jeans that aren't too low cut.

The most flattering style is probably a midrise bootcut jean. But with so many stores and so many brands, how do you find the right pair for you? Easy! Here is How To Find the Perfect Jeans for your Body.

Postpartum Thyroiditis

2009-06-03T23:57:00.000-05:00

We've all heard of the Baby Blues and Post Partum Depression as well as fatigue, anemia and pain as problems new moms can face. When those symptoms don't clear up by around 3 months, however, one lesser known problem that could be keeping the mother from returning to normal health is called Postpartum Thryroiditis. It is due to inflamation of the thyroid gland cause by anitbodies which work against the thyroid. The antibodies seem to reach their highest concentration around 5-7 months postpartum and can take up to a year to level off. These are some of the symptoms a woman may face as a result:

Common Symptoms of Thyroid Disfunction

Hyperactive (overactive)

Anxiousness
Tremousness
Rapid Heartbeat
A feeling of warmth
Difficulty Concentrating
Muscle weakness
Weight Loss

Hypoactive (underactive)

Fatigue
Weakness
Weight Gain
Constipation
Memory Impairment
Sensitivity to Cold
Muscle Cramps

After this happens, a woman can eventually level off and go back to normal with or without treatment depending on severity, or they may become permanently hypothyroid after this due to the damage on their thyroid.

Some women who experience fatique or depression 3-6 months after giving birth might really have a thyroid problem. This can improve with simple thyroid treatment, usually taking one pill a day of prescribed thyroid medication if you are hypothryroid. Your dr. can diagnose you through a blood test and physical examination.

Postpartum thyroiditis is a common dissorder which often goes unrecognized. Mainly because women assume these feelings are a normal part of the recovery from childbirth, or they assume they have postpartum depression, but do not report it to their Dr.
Treatment is painless and simple. If you are hypothyroid, even just temporarily after giving birth, you can safely take levothyroxine synthroid while breastfeeding.

If you have or suspect you have a thyroid problem, I would highly suggest (from personal experience) that you see a thyroid specialise. Many dr.'s are not informed about the details of Thyroid problems. If you feel you have anxiety or depression symptoms from it, they will give you an anti depressant, if you can concentrate, you might get ADD medication. A thyroid Dr will know that you need more Thyroid medicine and NOT a generic as they are NOT the same when it comes to Thyroid medicine.

If you didn't seem to bounce back from pregnancy the same as most women do, this may have been the reason. If you had a long slow recovery from your last childbirth and are planning on having more, go to an endocrinologist/Thyroid Dr during your pregnancy.

Just a quick note

2009-06-03T23:36:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to make a note about this parenting book I'm reading. My daughter is 2 and all the sudden, my hubby and I had to really figure out how to properly discipline our daughter in a loving and effective way. Anyways, my mother-in-law was visiting and gave me this old book that she had called A Hug and a Kiss and a Kick in the Pants. I'm about 1/3 through it and I just think every parent should have a copy. This isn't my first book on the topic, but so far it's the best. Instead of having a hundred rules of don't this and don't that....you have 3 rules.
No hurting yourself
No hurting others
No hurting things
It also teaches about logical consequences rather than spanking or time out for every infraction. My favorite examples were about a 4-yr old who didn't clean his room in the allotted time. His mom couldn't think of a good consequence and she had warned him there would be a consequence if he didn't do what she asked, but she wasn't prepared to follow through. Then she had an idea, she said "bye, I'm going for ice cream". Her boy said "wait I'm coming with you!" Mom replies "no you're not, you didn't clean your room" so she left him home with dad and went for ice cream. She came home with a quadruple scoop ice cream and ate it in front of him. The next time she asked him to clean his room, he did it in 5 minutes. There were other funny stories too. This book actually makes me laugh a lot!

I've already found the info I've learned from this book so helpful in correcting my daughter's behavior. Honestly, since I started reading it and getting new ideas, I haven't really had any tantrums or issues with my daughter, I'm finding her to be a lot more compliant! And I haven't had turn into the "monster mommy".

Anyways, so this is just a shout out for that book! Look up the book "A Hug and a Kiss and a Kick in the Pants" by Kay Kuzma on Amazon to find a copy.

2009-05-29T15:01:00.001-05:00

I have to tell you about one of my nearest and dearest friends. She is not yet a mom, but is a superwomen who I know will become one of those Super Moms. Anyways, aside from her day job (at an engineering firm) she is really an entrepreneur at heart. It must run in the Family as her grandparents run the oldest, most popular drive-in joint back in our high school town. Anyways, She spent quite a bit of time living in Mexico so she could become a fluent speaker. While there, she came in contact with the owner of the Vieri purse factory. The purses are sold in upscale stores in Cancun and Mexico City, not available in the US. However, she has started her own small business through her relationships with the Factory owners. She is the only supplier of these high quality designer bags in the United States. Here is a picture of me with one of her tote bags that doubles as a great alternative to the vinyl whinnie the pooh diaper bag!

I will post a link to her website soon. But if you are interested in finding out more, you can always contact me as I help her out a lot since I have time during the day while she is at the Engineering firm. You can also email moonmadnesspurses@yahoo.com for more info.

BONUS! I'm so excited, she also recently got in contact with the factory that makes BKE jeans that you find at The Buckle! One of my faveorites along with Citizens and Sevens. Those will be sold at a nice discount as well. It's crazy how much they are marked up!

Is your Thyroid Making you Fat?

2009-05-28T01:09:00.000-05:00

Could you be suffering from Hypothyroidism? The symptoms are subtle and often mistaken for depression. If left untreated, it can cause anemia, low body temp and heart failure.

I was diagnosed while in high school. I was always cold and lethargic. I was dead tired no matter how much sleep I got and getting out of bed felt impossible at times. I often got detention for having so many tardies and would fall asleep in some of my classes that had teachers that didn't care. My mom was the one who finally suspected low thyroid. We then did the Basal body temp test for about 3 weeks and it was pretty obvious, with my average temperature some where around 96 whereas the average persons resting body temp should be around 98.

Hypothyroidism is a lot more common than people think and it often goes misdiagnosed. The basic blood testing might show someone on the low end, however, if it's within the normal range, most doctors will tell you that you are fine. However, even being on the low end can mean you need treatment.

To determine if you may be gaining weight or just feeling exhausted at all times due to a hypothyroidism, check out the symptoms here!
If you do come back positive for Hypothyroidism, never fear, there are certain things you can do to help you lose weight when you are hypothyroid. Learn more from my article How to Lose Weight when your are Hypothyroid.

And for those who are interested, you can see my article on treating hypothroidism naturally here!

I'm Not a Skinny B!tch

2009-04-24T14:31:00.000-05:00

Looking great is not about becoming a waif like the models we see in all the media around us. You can be a hot momma by putting your best face forward....taking a bit of time to look in the mirror and get ready, to make sure you are wearing clothes that flatter your figure, and exercise for health, well-being, and to get a break from your job as a mom/wife! I'm not super skinny, I haven't been "skinny" since before I was 15. I guess I consider myself medium size. Not big, not small....not the size of Montreal (That just came out! Memories from Childhood...I don't even remember the original rhyme).
Anyways, whatever your SIZE is, don't obsess. Be the best you can be, love yourself and tell yourself that you are sexy and attractive. Your attitude and how you feel about yourself radiates and others pick up on it. If you are always thinking negative things about yourself, it will show in your demeanor and others will pick up on it. So put on a smile, enjoy your life and your family and embrace the skin you are in....just remember to exfoliate and moisturize! (and maybe add a little bronzer:)

A Few Fitness Myths

2009-04-24T14:14:00.000-05:00

Don't lift weights otherwise you'll get huge arms or too big of muscles. MYTH!
It takes so much work to build that kind of muscle bulk in your arms. Lifting weights can help slim and tone your body and help you burn more fat!

Working out while still nursing will cause your breast milk to go sour and the baby won't like it. MYTH!
Some women think they can't work out after having a baby if they are nursing mothers for fear of spoiling their milk. This isn't true. If your doctor has given you the green light to work out and you feel up to it, then by all means, get some exercise!

You can spot reduce fat. IE-get flat abs from merely doing crunches. MYTH!
In order to get a smaller waist or flat abs, you have to burn fat. This means working up a sweat from doing cardiovascular exercise. Creating a routine combined of cardio and strength training will help reduce overall body fat. You can do all the sit-ups that you want, but without burning off the fat, you'll just have mud on rocks.

No Pain No Gain! MYTH!
We've all heard the saying "no pain no gain" when it comes to fitness but it's just not true. If you are in pain while working out, you are either doing it wrong or have an injury. To make gains in your workout, you may work yourself to the point of fatigue or exhaustion, but remember, muscle fatigue and pain are not the same thing. Pain in the form of soreness a day or two after working out is normal, but pain during your workout is not.

Stylish Moms

2009-04-24T14:07:00.000-05:00

When trying to find a style for yourself as a mom that doesn't scream "MOM", look to stylish celeb moms for ideas. Not all celeb moms are model style icons....I don't see myself walking my daughter to school when she's 5 wearing booty shorts like Kate Moss. After looking at a few pictures of each celeb mom, you will start to notice a preference for certain celeb moms, as their style seems to mesh with your own, or is at least something you could see yourself emulating.

Check out PHOTOS of Stylish Moms on the go! Click Here.

Hot Momma's can indulge their chocolate cravings without the guilt!

2009-04-17T15:28:00.000-05:00

So I've been trying to eat less junk food lately, but I'm a sucker for anything crunchy or chocolaty. (who isn't!). I've been on a good workout regime, going to Yoga class and working out at Gold's Gym and doing Abs of Steel or Turbo Jam at home, but I haven't wanted to give up my treats! I walked by the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory at the mall the other day and ever since I couldn't shed the craving for chocolate covered almonds, which I LOVE! Well, I kept thinking about it and decided to make my own. Using raw, unsalted almonds and dark chocolate from the baking section, I've recreated one of my favorite treats, but now I consider it "superfood". lol. Maybe the experts wouldn't include it, but after all the articles I've read about superfoods, it is clear to me that raw almonds and dark chocolate are on that list. So, I gave it a try and they turned out great or as Rachel Ray would say "Yum-O!"

Just because you want to try to maintain your figure or even loose a bit of it doesn't mean you have to deprive yourself completely. I consider this a healthy snack...as long as I don't eat too many at once. Check out my recipe and enjoy!

A Smokin' Pregnancy

2009-03-17T15:35:00.000-05:00

Being a hot mama doesn't mean you have to have a flat stomach (although it doesn't mean we all want one anyway!) Even when you're stomach is the size of 3 watermelons during pregnancy you can still look great. To look great and feel attractive during pregnancy, buy a few maternity clothes. It's tempting to just wear our husband's baggy shirts and that's okay when you are lounging around the house needing to be comfortable, but you should invest in at least a few cute maternity clothes for when you do leave the house, or just even when you want to look nice when your man comes home.
You should shop around for the following items:
Start out with some cute maternity panties. Wearing cute new panties can add a little spring into your step and I'm pretty sure your hubby won't complain! I had a hard time finding any cute undergarments while I was preggo, but here is where you can find a 4-pack of these cute little panties.

Citizens Maternity Jeans will make you look and feel stylish a great. Designer jeans are a little pricey, but well worth the splurge, esspecially if you are planning on having multiple pregnancies. If not, you can re-sell your used Citizens on Craigslist or eBay! Buy you new pair HERE.
This feminine little summer dress looks so comfortable for easy, effortless style on the go. Plus, a dress like this is great post pregnancy too giving you extra room and camouflaging your post-baby belly. I found this dress at a fun webstore called Hot Mama Maternity.

Another MUST HAVE item for pregnancy is a Bella Band. You will be able to wear all your favorite pants a little longer as you can unbutton them and hold them up with the bella band, available in an assortment of colors and they add a stylish layered effect. Get a couple in a few basic colors HERE.

Think about getting at least one nice maternity blouse and then the rest can just be empire waist tops or stretchy long tanks and t-shirts that can be layered. I like this top a lot! Find it HERE.

Now to really feel great and have a beautiful smokin' pregnancy, is to stay healthy and fit in a safe and appropriate way. When I was pregnant, I was broke but I did splurge on a prenatal yoga DVD and it was so worth it. Doing Yoga during pregnancy energizes you, aids digestion and helps relieve back pressure and physical and emotional stressed caused by pregnancy. When doing Yoga during pregnancy you have to be very careful as some exercises are dangerous during pregnancy, which is why it is safer to just buy a DVD specifically for Prenatal Yoga. I enjoyed this DVD by Gaiam.

Easy Weight Loss Tips After Having a Baby

2009-01-29T17:33:00.001-06:00

* Breastfeeding burns up to 500 calories a day!
* Drink Green Tea as it helps give your metabolism a boost and is a great antioxidant. The caffeine will also give you the little extra umpf you need as a mom.
* Drink dairy, and if you drink 1% or 2%, switch to fat free milk and instantly cut out calories without changing anything else.
* Hold your baby in front of you rather than on your hip. When you hold your baby on your hip, you tent to push out your stomach muscles, which doesn't help with the pounch factor. Hold your baby in front of you and remember to keep your abs in.
* Eat plenty of whole grains and fiber.
* Drink lots of water. Especially of you are nursing.
* Eat an apple 30 minutes before your next meal to curb your appetite.
* Dance with your baby, or dance around the house while your baby watches from her swing. It will entertain your baby and get your heart rate up.
* Get in on with your man. Once the doctor gives the okay, get all the baby stuff out of the room and get intimate with your man. Being on top is a great way to work your muscles and start getting back in shape. And it's fun and relieves stress...something moms know a lot about!!! (And stress can make it harder to lose weight or even cause you to gain weight.)

Embrace your Face!

2009-01-29T17:04:00.000-06:00

Do your make-up, even if it’s a quick job. Even if you are not big on make-up, you can brighten up and freshen your look with some under eye concealer and a swipe of mascara on top eyelashes to look brighter and more awake. I recently discovered Bare Escentuals Mineral Make-up and I will NEVER go without it again. It goes on so light you don’t even feel like you are wearing make-up plus it is fast and easy to apply.No special beauty skills required. I apply some powder under and around my eyes and use the warm powder to add a natural looking glow to my face and I instantly look and feel 10 times better! I can literally change my complexion from blah to aw in 1 minute. The powders have been lasting me a long time too and I can honestly say I haven't been more impressed with any other kind of coverage make-up, OH and it also has built in SPF coverage too! Seriously, I can't live without this stuff! I don't understand how it can be so light, yet cover up all my blemishes so perfectly at the same time.
Bare Escentuals Mineral Make-Up starter kit
Bare Escentuals Bare Minerals Starter kit (Medium)
Bare Escentuals Sephora Exclusive Get Started Kit - Fair ($174 VALUE for $60)

It's all in the hair!

2009-01-29T16:33:00.000-06:00

Even if you can't attain your ideal body, it's nothing to get too depressed about. Seeing pictures of celebrity moms can either make you feel worse about yourself or inspire you to look your personal best. Some people hang pictures around their house and on the fridge of celebrities with nice bodies for inspiration...however, you might want to consider putting up pictures of you in your prime. It's a more realistic goal to look forward too, since you know you are capable of looking like that again.
Aside for physical fitness and body shape, there are other ways to embrace your beauty and femininity as a mom. Do your hair. Part of what contributes to the dreaded "mom" look is not the size of pants you wear, but they way you cut and style your hair....or if you do anything with it at all! Having your hair look nice can transform your entire look and take your from "tired" looking to "WHOA SEXY MAMA!"
Are you now thinking "but I don't have time to do my hair in the morning, it's a mad rush!" well, all it takes is some preparation at night after the kids are in bed. Check out my article on How to Wake Up With Nice Hair.
Invest in a few good hairstyling tools such as the Ted Gibson Professional Flat Iron or the CHI
I tried an imitation CHI ceramic hair flattener at first, but it didn't really do a great job of getting my hair straight, smooth and silky. After spending FOREVER straightening my wavy, crazy hair with not good results with the imitator, I got online and bought a CHI. It was the best investment ever! Even on days when I wake up in a rush and my hair is kind of frizzy and fro-y, I can quickly smooth it out with my CHI. It heats up incredibly fast too. If I straighten my hair at night and go to bed without a pony-tail, It looks great in the morning when I wake up. I would pretty much tell anyone that a high quality Ceramic hair straightener is essential, even if you have shorter hair.

Celeb Mom Beach Bods

2009-01-29T16:06:00.000-06:00

Denise Richards, although I've never been a fan of hers, looks good. She has some curves and looks real and natural.
Courtney Cox looks stunning in a bikini. She looks long, lean and firm and you gotta love the tan! Makes me want to go do some yoga and pilates right now!
Can you believe Jessica Alba had a baby so recently??? She is smokin' in that bikini.
Demi Moore, the cougar. Geeze, she looks almost too good, it kind of pisses me off! haha. This is an example of someone who is obviously blessed with great genetics!
Heather Locklear looking great in a tankini. She looks real too, not too perfect, but still hot.

Make Money so you Can Shop!

2009-01-21T17:12:00.000-06:00

When your a busy mom, how can you make some extra cash so you can have some frivolous spending money to pamper yourself with a nice haircut and highlights or a new outfit?
There are plenty of ways to make extra money from home, but what I've found most successful is writing articles on the web for eHow. You can see me on the homepage banner! :)
I tell every mom I meet about eHow because it is so much fun and it actually makes you money! It just requires an investment of time and effort on your part in the beginning.
I was invited among 17 eHow users to the eHow headquarters in Oct 2008 in Santa Monica, Ca. It is such a cool website and they treat their users so well! I learned a lot there about writing better articles and tips for becoming more successful with eHow. While I was there, I made a friend with another stay at home mom who won an award for the highest earnings. She is a super smart gal and you can find her on eHow as Writergig. She wrote a super helpful ebook that will give you all the info you need to get off to a great start and maximize your earning potential! I highly reccommend it!
Click here to view more details

Smokin' Hot Celebrity Moms

2009-01-11T04:36:00.000-06:00

I'll never be as skinny as Nichole Richie, but she has great style!
Jennifer Garner comes across as such a natural mother. She's smokin' too!
Heidi Klum is so perfect I hate her! (jk!)
Another celebrity rocking her killer abs post baby.
Well, it's no secret that Angelina Jolie is a hot momma!
I've never been a huge fan of Christina Agulera, but I must say she looks fantastic!

See Mommy Run

2009-01-11T03:56:00.000-06:00

Sheryl Crow walks with her son

Ready to get motivated and feel good about yourself? Want to make friends with common interests in walking or running?

Stay fit. Stay healthy. Join other moms in your area to run or walk or to share health, fitness, and everyday living tips. We invite you to join an existing group in your area or start your own.

seeMOMMYrun is a free site to locate or start your own running or walking group in .

Here is how it works:

1. Register
2. Join a group.
3. OR start a group.
4. Communicate with other members.

I've met with moms through this website to have someone to walk and talk with while getting fit. It's SUCH a great resource, especially if you don't have any mom friends yet. This site is a must try. Look for groups in your area or start your own group. The only bad thing about starting your own group is that it can take a while before anyone joins it.
You don't have to be a runner, you can join a walker's group.

If you want to start running, here is a video you might find helpful:

How to Start Running for Beginners

Stubbly Prickly Legs Aren't Smokin'

2009-01-11T03:08:00.000-06:00

Do you ever climb into bed at night, snuggle up next to your man and as you graze your leg against him to get his attention, hear him say "Ouch!"? That's not how you wanted to get his attention! Even as we get comfortable with each other and having perfectly smooth legs becomes less of a priority, it's still nice to surprise your love with silky smooth legs that he can caress rather than feel like he's in love with a porcupine. Even though he won't love you less for being a little prickly at times, you might want to check out these tips on How to Shave your Legs Perfectly!
Speaking of hair removal and grooming, one way to put a little spring into your step and really catch your man's attention is to pay some careful attention to grooming and shaping down there. So even if you were home all day, your hair not styled, dressed in scrubs, your house is cluttered with toys, at least you know something is tidy! And at the end of the day, when the kids are fast asleep, you can show it off and strut your stuff. You're husband/partner will totally think you're smokin'. (Just don't tell him you borrowed his beard trimmer! lol)

Another Smokin' Mom to Look Up To

2009-01-11T02:54:00.000-06:00

Trista Sutter, famous from the Bachelor and Bachelorette is a poster girl for getting her body back after having her first baby. Check out those flat abs, My daughter is a lot older than that baby and I still have a ways to go! I have to admit, I've had this picture hanging on my fridge for a long time now as inspiration, along with a sample of her diet. This is how she lost her baby weight: How to Loose Baby Weight Like Trista Sutter. I think she is a great example of a mom who got her body back in shape and seemed to do it in a healthy way and is a good model for other moms out there.

Trista Sutters Diet that I saved from my US Weekly magazine:

Trista Sutter’s sample diet menu (2,000 calories daily) While Breastfeeding

Day 1:

Breakfast A bowl of Frosted Mini-Wheats with skim milk.

Snack Sambazon Supergreens Revolution Organic Acai Smoothie; Muscle Milk Light shake.

Lunch Turkey sandwich with light mayo on Oroweat Whole Grain & Flax Bread; handful of Honey Graham Sunchips; an Uncle Eddies Vegan Cookie

Snack French Vanilla Crisp Pria Bar

Dinner Three slices of Amy’s organic Spinach Pizza and a mixed salad

Snack Six Nestle Crunch Dibs

Day 2:

Breakfast Two LifeStream Flax Plus Waffles with 2 tbsp Horizon Organic butter and 2 tbsp syrup.

Snack Chocolate Peanut Crunch Pria Bar.

Lunch Peanut Butter and jelly sandwich on Oroweat bread; Sambazon Original Acai Juice; two Oreos.

Snack Muscle Milk Light snake

Dinner Red beans and rice burrito; spinach salad

Snack Six Dibs

Day 3:

Breakfast Two wholewheat pancakes with Smart Balance spread and syrup.

Snack Mix 1 Tangerine drink.

Lunch Grilled cheese on whole wheat; bowl of tomato soup.

Snack One apple and 2 tbsp peanut butter; Muscle Milk Light shake.

Dinner Grilled Chicken, broccoli and a sweet potato.

Snack A few bites of Ben & Jerry’s Lighten Up ice cream.

I'll admit, I did go to Costco and buy a big box of mini-wheats after reading the interview. I'd count them out and have a bowl for any meal of the day.

Think Your too Busy? Think Again!

2009-01-11T02:41:00.000-06:00

Among moms there is a common dilemma...When are we supposed to have time to stay in shape? We're busy taking care of our kids, our home our partner and maybe even a job, there is just not enough hours in the day to do everything we need to do, let alone the things we "should" do, like taking care of ourselves.
Well, next time you are at the playground with your kids, if they are old enough that you can just keep an eye on them while doing this playground workout, you can totally multitask. Check out the video below for the playground workout to trim down, tone your body or at least just keep from losing your body completely. For other easy ways to squueze in exercise while taking care of kids, check out this article: How to Exercise While Taking Care of Kids.

Smokin' Sculpted Abs!!!

2009-01-11T02:28:00.000-06:00

WOW. I just saw this pic of Jenny McCarthy and her AMAZING abs. I don't know if that is a realistic goal for me, especially since I'm hoping to get preggers again, but it sure is inspiring. I tried to search and find out if there was any info on her diet and work-out routine, but all I came up with is that she did Weight Watchers after her pregnancy and lost all the weight without exercise. But that was a few years ago now and obviously she does something to get that sculpted.

Here is a really great ab workout that can help whittle your waistline.

Smokin' Momma Begins

2009-01-11T01:48:00.000-06:00

What mom out there doesn't want to be considered smokin hot, at least by her husband, friends, family and most importantly, herself? As a mom determined to never wear "mom jeans" or get a "mom haircut" and constantly looking up tips and ways to maintain and embrace some of that beauty from the pre-baby life, I wanted to share the journey with you.
Together, we can vow to NOT LET OURSELVES GO!
This is my first blogging attempt and I think it should be fun :)