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Tuesday, May 31, 2011

5K Success and more races...

On Memorial Day, my friend and I ran the Astros Race for the Pennant 5K and it went great! Great weather, thousands of participants and we kicked butt! 32:31! I am still waiting for the official race photos and if they aren't too terrible, I'll post 'em!
I love the atmosphere at races...people of all shapes and sizes with one common goal, to finish! Well, some are there to win which is great...but I am there to FINISH! Ha! The music, the family and friends cheering for their loved ones, children running the entire race alongside their parents, I LOVE ALL OF IT! It pushes me to push on, set new goals and continue to try my very best, always!
Now, let me tell you... this race had some hills! And here in Texas, I am not familiar with hills! Well, not really hills-overpasses, but still! I have never run a 5K going uphill! My booty was killing me and my legs felt the burn for most of the race! And although it encouraged me to sign up for a 10K in TWO WEEKS(not far away, so wish me luck and pray that I survive!), that race also left me sore and feeling it the next day...but thankfully, Water Jel sent me their Muscle Jel, Pain Relieving Spray to try out! I wanted to see if it would help my sore muscles...

My gosh, it WORKS! I LOVE this stuff...hubby and I have been using it for weeks and I'm officially addicted! What I love best? No yucky smell and NO mess!!! Does it work? OH YES...as soon as you spray on, you can feel it. The non-greasy spray starts to work immediately and my muscles totally felt relief. Thank goodness!! We received two bottles and my husband keeps telling me that we need to buy more! Ha! I am going to ask if they're feeling generous and want to be a Independence 5K sponsor, so maybe you'll win some of your very own??!


Don't forget about the ProSpeed Skechers giveaway, ending 6/3/11!

And the Independence 5K is July 3rd-9th!

**If you spread the word through blogger, facebook or twitter and email me with the link to that post, I will add an extra entry into the virtual 5K for each that you do! So, more chances to win products from some of our great sponsors!


*As for the 10K, it is June 11th! 6.2 miles? Really?! Oh geez, last week when I ran 5.37 I thought I was going to die. I have to tell myself to stay positive and believe in myself that I CAN and WILL finish that race!!!

*As for the Houston Half Marathon...sign up is tomorrow morning at 8:00 am!!! Although it is lottery, my hubby and I are signing up as a group so that we either both get in or both get the boot! Wish us luck! The Livestrong Half Marathon sign up is also tomorrow at 8:00 am but that one shouldn't fill up as fast...hopefully?

SERIOUSLY, who would have ever thought I'd be a runner! Am I a runner? I think so. I LOVE IT and now that I have set these goals, I'll be reaching out to my bloggy friends (pssst, that's YOU) for support!!

Friday, May 27, 2011

Introducing the ProSpeed by Skechers GIVEAWAY!!

Skechers has pulled out all of the stops when creating the new ProSpeed running shoe! Seriously, how cool are these? Although I have not tried them, I love a good lightweight running shoe, so I'd sure like to give them a try...HOW ABOUT YOU??! Personally, I think I am liking this pink one, but the men's blue is pretty cool too :)























*June 1st is National Running Day
Celebrate America’s Passion for Fitness withBold
ProSpeed from SKECHERS
Across the country running enthusiasts will be lacing up their sneakers and hitting the pavement
in celebration of the 3rd annual National Running Day. This June 1st from coast to coast there will
be events, races and most importantly people just doing what they love most – running and
staying fit.
According to the National Running Day website, “On this day, runners everywhere share their
passion for a lifestyle that is one of the best, and simplest, ways to stay fit—and so much more.
You can head out solo to clear your mind, gab with your regular running buddies, or turn an
unsuspecting friend into a running fiend. This day is for us!”
What better way to celebrate National Running Day than with a new technical running shoe from
SKECHERS Fitness Group. Built from the ground up, the innovative series is a highly
sophisticated line that incorporates Smart Shoe™ technology, which allows you to run as nature
intended. The proprietary design enables a mid-foot strike, helping your foot get off the ground
faster and minimizing injury.
ProSpeed, $100
“When the training ends, all you need is speed.”
The ProSpeed is the flagship style of the Pro Series and allows you to
train like a pro. This revolutionary design changes the way you run by
simulating barefoot running. Incorporating the Smart Shoe™
technology to optimize each stride, it is a great training and racing shoe
as it’s very lightweight.


How would you like to win a pair of these ProSpeed's($100 value) to try out for yourself??!


Mandatory Entry:

You must be a follower of my blog and leave a comment telling me

(1 Entry)

Tell me why you'd like to try the ProSpeed running shoe by Skechers?

(1 Entry)


Extra Entries:

Sign up for my virtual Independence 5K, email me telling me that you'll sign up rissarose80@yahoo.com

(2 entries)


Blog about this giveaway on your blog and leave the link to the post

(2 entries)


**Make sure you leave a valid email address so that I may contact you if you win! Giveaway Ends Friday, June 3rd at midnight! GOOD LUCK!

These will ship from retailer so when/if you win, I will need your size and men's or women's preference!

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Baked Salmon with Cucumber Dill Sauce

Does this recipe look yummy, or what?! When I received this one, I knew I had to try it immediately and I'm sure happy that I did...SUPER YUMMY!!! Now it's your turn to give it a try...




Baked Salmon with Cucumber Dill Sauce

Ingredients
1 pound salmon, raw
2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons water
1 cup nonfat sour cream
2 teaspoons dried dill or 2 tbsp fresh dill
1/2 cup diced cucumbers
1/4 cup minced green onion

Preparation:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Rinse salmon fillets under cold, running water and place them in a large baking pan.
3. Sprinkle the lemon juice and water over the salmon and place the pan in the center of the oven. Bake until done, or when the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, about 20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, mix remaining ingredients for sauce in a small bowl.
5. Serve fish fillets hot with the sauce on the side.

Nutrition Information
Calories 220
Calories from Fat 45
Total Fat 5g
Saturated Fat 1g
Cholesterol 70mg
Sodium 170mg
Total Carbohydrate 10g
Dietary Fiber 0g
Sugars 7g
Protein 31g
Vitamin A 10%
Vitamin C 10%
Calcium 20%
Iron 6%



Summer is nearly upon us and with it comes seafood season! But did you know that the type of fish you’re eating and how it’s cooked matters, and can even impact your risk of heart failure?

A new study published in the journal of the American Heart Association (see below) found that the risk of developing heart failure was lower for older women who frequently ate baked or broiled fish and higher for those who ate more fried fish. Additionally, dark fish like salmon were found to be healthier for the heart than tuna or white fish, such as sole.

Heart-healthy eating is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for the nearly 26 million people in the U.S. who have type 2 diabetes, and who are 2 to 4 times more likely to have heart disease and stroke than people without the disease.

The recipe for Baked Salmon with Cucumber Dill Sauce is delicious, heart-healthy and diabetes-friendly! There are also more than 100 healthy recipes and other simple tips for leading a healthier lifestyle at MerckDiabetes.com, or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TheDiabetesDish.

*Running Update: I know I've said it 100 times now but I love running! I have now lost 11lbs., my body feels great and looks better too! I could not be happier with this change of exercise in my life...and I'm also happy that my husband and I have found the same passion and we can reach our goals together! If you haven't found that certain workout that gets you going, gets you fired up, motivates you...keep searching! It's out there! You WILL find the one that's right for YOU!

We will be running the Astros Race for the Pennant 5K on Memorial Day, so wish us luck! Hope your exercise is going great too :)

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Wednesday Workout Hop and sponsor update!









Welcome to the Wednesday Workout Blog Hop!



Hosted by Let's Move It Momma's, My Fitness World and Living Smart Girl!



We are so happy that you've stopped by and decided to link up! So, just have fun, meet some new blog buddies and don't forget to follow your hostesses!



Independence 5K Update: If you take a look below, you'll see that I've been doing my homework, working at getting some fabulous sponsors for this virtual event...take a look!
























have you signed up yet? Are you helping spread the word? Email me that you've posted my Independence 5K race on your blog with the link and I'll add an extra entry for you, on race week! Yep, that means you would have more chances to win...and that's not all folks, I've got more sponsors headed this way soon :) Email me at rissarose80@yahoo.com to sign up NOW!!! If you have a chance, check out our sponsors websites, they have some great products that you might be interested in...I know I sure am!!!






Tuesday, May 24, 2011

"Kids Eat Right"

This program was brought to my attention and I'm SO happy that it was. I did not know about it, but immediately I am ALL FOR IT! Any program that is geared to keeping our kids healthy, is a program I will fully support! I'm off to read more about this program and I hope you take a look too...



Kids Eat Right, a joint effort of the American Dietetic Association and its Foundation designed to help end childhood obesity, provides you and your family with valuable tools to learn the basics of shopping smart, cooking healthy and eating right.

“For many families, the summer break can lead to a disruption of the normal routine and a diversion from the eating habits established during the school year. It is important to maintain regularity with your family over the summer months, ensuring everyone is eating the foods they need when they need them,” says registered dietitian, Katie Brown, ADA Foundation’s national education director. “Kids Eat Right provides families with the tools they need to maintain a healthy eating plan all year long.”

Centered on a “SHOP, COOK, EAT” principle, Kids Eat Right is designed to bring families together for nutritious meals each day by providing simple, easily accomplished tasks. With age-specific content developed by registered dietitians—the nation’s food and nutrition experts—the Kids Eat Right website gives parents a one-stop-shop for finding the most nutritious foods, preparing them in a way your kids will love, and helping the whole family understand the fundamentals of eating right.

Parents are encouraged to visit the Kids Eat Right website (www.KidsEatRight.org) to find practical tips, articles, videos and recipes from registered dietitians, posted each week to help families enjoy summer break without breaking their healthy eating plan. The campaign also features social media outreach through Facebook and Twitter encouraging healthy eating and healthy lives.

“One of the best ways to teach your kids about eating healthfully is to involve them in every step of the process, and Kids Eat Right is your tool for learning how to do this,” says registered dietitian and American Dietetic Association Spokesperson Amy Jamieson-Petonic. She offers tips to involve the entire family:

· Bring your kids shopping with you, and let them pick out the healthy foods they like, especially the bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables available during summer months.
· Have them help in the kitchen when preparing meals with age-appropriate tasks, letting the older kids chop and cook foods and the younger kids mix ingredients and set the table.
· And most importantly, sit down as a family and eat together. According to a recent study in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, eating together as a family during adolescence is associated with lasting positive effects on nutritional quality in young adulthood.

“And don’t forget about one of the most important parts of living a healthy lifestyle—physical activity,” says Jamieson-Petonic. “Your kids should be getting at least 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. So, don't let them spend the summer sitting on the couch.”

Jamieson-Petonic says you should encourage them to get out and enjoy the benefits of being physically active with these tips:

· Sign kids up for local sports leagues or camps.
· Participate in family activities like swimming, tennis or biking.
· Organize neighborhood events like kickball or softball games.

In conjunction with Kids Eat Right, and with support from MetLife Foundation, the ADA Foundation launched the RD-Parent Empowerment Program in select schools in the Chicago, New York and Houston areas. The RD-Parent Empowerment Program brings registered dietitians into the schools and communities to provide the knowledge and skills that will empower families to make positive, sustainable changes in eating and activity patterns of their children.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

What's Up

I think I've finally found the courage for...


Do I see a half marathon in my future? YES! My hubby and I were asked by our very good friends to complete this along with them, I have recruited my running buddy, Christine and we're ready to go! Hmmm, now where do we begin? Ha! Remember I've NEVER done this before...yikes! Do I even have a clue as to what I'm in for??!




I finally bought a new pair of running shoes, Mizuno Wave Rider and so far, so good! I had an amazing experience with our local running store, Runner's Link! They took their time and we didn't stop until we found the perfect shoe for me...oh and we totally had a great time talking, exercise! Is it just me, or is running THE best feeling in the world? I have been working out for over 10 years and although I enjoyed teaching aerobics, going to the gym and other workout programs...running gives me a feeling like NO other! I have lost almost 6 lbs. and although I should not focus on weight, my clothes fit better and I feel as though my body is taking a different shape :)

Oh yes, what a lovely picture of me telling the world, "I run like a girl" and I'm darn proud of it!!! That's right, BondiBand review is coming soon and they are one of the Independence 5K sponsors...send me an email to sign up NOW, rissarose80@yahoo.com


Friday, May 20, 2011

Toys VS. McDonald's

As a child, I remember being so excited when a "cool" toy was going to be in my Happy Meal, but I did also grow up overweight and inactive...is that McDonald's fault? Hmmm...I think I had a choice, my parents had a choice and McDonald's had NOTHING to do with those choices...I did NOT eat a Happy Meal based upon the toy, I wanted that greasy stuff with or without the toy and that is why, as a Health teacher, I wanted children to LEARN about healthy foods, so they were educated to make healthy choices when they are eating fast food.
I received this article and thought it was interesting, what do you think?!


McDonald’s is under attack again today! A group called Corporate Accountability International is proposing a resolution to ban Ronald McDonald and other popular kid’s toys from the fast food giant, because they say this type of marketing is what’s making kids obese. http://money.cnn.com/2011/05/18/news/companies/mcdonalds_retire_ronald/index.htm?hpt=T2
The introduction of the resolution is scheduled for today.

Weight loss expert Steve Siebold, author of the book Die Fat or Get Tough; 101 Differences in Thinking Between Fat People and Fit People (www.diefatbook.com), strongly disagrees! Siebold says McDonald’s isn’t to blame, but rather parents of obese children are.

Here are a few of his thoughts:

· It’s not the restaurants, food manufacturers, portion sizes or anything else that is making Americans and children fat. If you’re fat it’s your own fault. If your kids are fat it’s the parents fault.
· Take away Happy Meal toys and Ronald McDonald and obese kids are still going to talk their parents into giving them something else unhealthy. Are we going to ban Halloween next?
· Ronald McDonald and Happy Meal toys are an American institution and the accusations being brought on by this organization are preposterous and a waste of time.
· American’s are free to make their own choices when it comes to what they eat. If they want to eat Happy Meals, drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes or whatever, the fundamental rights of living in this country allow people to make their own choices.
If you don’t know that fast food is bad for you by now than you must be from another planet. What it comes down to is mental toughness and choices. America needs to grow up and make a commitment to lose weight and get healthy once and for all. Targeting McDonald’s is not the answer to the obesity epidemic.

So, what do you think? Should they ban toys from McDonald's? Do you think the toys in the Happy Meals are making children obese?

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Camping with the kiddos!

it was our first time BUT definitely not our last...

This was our first, family camping trip and we will be doing this A LOT! The boys did not want to leave and neither did we! We went fishing, went on long walks around the lakes, watched movies at the outdoor theatre, went swimming and did water slides for HOURS, built a fire and cooked on the fire pit! Such a blast! We decided to bring NO toys, so they were forced to play with rocks, sticks and pine cones...no fighting and it was WONDERFUL :) Ha! Since it's not the peak of summer just yet, the place was pretty empty and totally quiet! In the evenings, we sat outside and let the boys explore the campgrounds and find bugs, birds and even a beaver! There are more pics on http://mcclellenmemories.blogspot.com, our family blog if you'd like to check them out!!


*I had received some samples of Paper Shower and decided to bring them along on our trip! How perfect! If I didn't feel like showering (how can you blame me, we were roughing it!), I pulled out a Paper Shower and ALL CLEAN!! Just to tell ya a little about them, because I totally think I'll buy them in the future. They are a wet/dry towelette used as a refreshing wash up without soap and water! Great for travelers, campers, athletes and parents too! And after using one, I actually felt refreshed...crazy, right? But it's true! I felt like a true "camper" with these towelettes and if you and your family are planning a trip soon, you should try them too! They retail at a $1 each, which I think is reasonable so go to www.papershower.com and
order yours today!

Monday, May 16, 2011

interesting article AND my new, favorite workout song!

I wanted to share this article with all of you...thought it was pretty interesting and keep scrolling for my new, favorite workout song...whew, be warned-it's ADDICTING!!



· PERIODIZE TO OPTIMIZE—Weight training is crucial to any fitness plan as it improves performance, strengthens bone and increases metabolism. The most efficient way to weight train is to utilize periodization, the practice of changing repetitions and sets two times a week. Switching up which muscles are worked results in reduced body fat and increased muscle definition.
· TIME YOUR SNACKING—Nutrition is almost equally as important as physical training. 30-60 minutes before a workout, eat a small snack consisting of protein and carbohydrates; if your workout lasts more than one hour, consume sports drinks to optimize performance. After exercising, eat a snack consisting of carbohydrates and protein as soon as possible and eat a full meal within one hour.
· HYDRATE TO PERFORM—Fluids help to prevent dehydration, fatigue and performance drag. While specific needs vary based on the person and the activity being performed, some general guidelines can be followed. Active people should consume 10-12 cups of water each day and consume 4-8 ounces of water every 15-20 minutes while exercising.
· BE SMART ABOUT SUPPLEMENTS—Creatine, protein, and beta-hydroxy-methylbuyrate (HMB) are generally recognized as the most effective sport supplements. Creatine has been shown to increase the size of muscle fibers and has been proven safe for long-term use. Protein isolates increase muscle while not raising glucose levels. HMB prevents the breakdown of muscle and may positively affect metabolism speed. Be smart while shopping for supplements -- listen to medical advice instead of marketing ploys.
Please let me know if you are interested in additional information including an interview with ChicagoHealers.com Practitioner Valery Early, RD.

About ChicagoHealers.com
Chicago Healers (www.ChicagoHealers.com) is the nation’s pioneer prescreened integrative health care network, offering a comprehensive understanding of each practitioner’s services, approach, and philosophy. Our holistic health experts teach and advocate natural and empowered health and life choices through their practices, the media, educational events, and our website. With close to 200 practitioners and over 300 treatment services, Chicago Healers has provided nearly 400 free educational events for Chicagoans and has been featured in 300+ TV news programs and print publications. For more information, visit www.ChicagoHealers.com.


My workouts: Wow, I've really been working hard at improving my distance and speed when it comes to running! I've also re-introduced GSP RUSHFIT back into my workouts twice a week (Yep, I missed it!!) I need new running shoes, so we're going to go looking today! And my FAVORITE new workout song:
"I Am Woman" by Jordin Sparks! Holy cow, I downloaded it, added to my playlist and I think I listened to it 15 times on my run yesterday! I was screaming the words as I ran!!! AWESOME, WORKOUT SONG...I PROMISE!!!
What's your workout jam on your playlist right now?! Ya know the one you can scream at the top of your lungs while you are running to the beat??! Yea, you know the one!!!

Friday, May 13, 2011

hard to say goodbye...to a stroller! and some b-day celebrating too!

Yep, our littlest man right here turned 2 this week and we've been celebrating like crazy! Happy Birthday, sweet boy...we love you BEYOND words! I am a bit sad because today we said goodbye to my BOB Revolution DOUBLE jogging stroller! Yes, it was hard to go our seperate ways but our oldest son will be 5 years old in November and he's just getting TOO big for me to push that darn thing on my runs :( So, it was sold to a friend of mine and the good news? I will take the money we made on my double and go find me a single BOB to push little man and our oldest son will ride his bike while Mommy runs...now, that means it's time to get him riding his bike withOUT training wheels??! Wish us luck...and here's a b-day picture of our youngest before we went swimming for his birthday this week! and if you haven't signed up for this virtual 5K race...what are you waitin' for??!!





I've got some great sponsors for the race with some awesome giveaways...and remember, it's not your time that qualifies you for prizes, it's that you email me with your finishing time and you are entered to win...it's that simple! So, sign up, go out and have fun while you exercise and maybe even sport your 4th of July attire for some extra entries...








Some sponsors and giveaways from this Independence 5K race include-









GU Energy Gel

Inperspire - if you haven't heard of them, you MUST check them out!

...and more to come, so SIGN UP NOW! It's easy, send me an email, rissarose80@yahoo.com letting me know you're ready to take part in the virtual race, run/walk the week of July 3rd-9th, send me your finishing time and that's it..you are entered to win some GREAT prizes, as you can see from our sponsors and remember, pictures in your festive attire will get you extra entries, so prepare those fun 4th of July outfits SOON!
Look for the sponsors exciting reviews coming VERY soon!

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Wednesday Workout Blog Hop! Sign up for the 5K!











This week, just join in and hop around!! We'd love to increase our followers and participants in this blog hop, so spread the word and HAVE FUN!!



Hosted by My Fitness World, The Move It Momma(me!) and Living Smart Girl!



...and if you haven't signed up for my Independence 5K virtual run, you totally should right NOW! It may be your first run, or just a little stepping stone toward your big marathon goals...whatever it may be, you should join in! I have some great sponsors with some great giveaways headed your way, so sign up HERE and get ready to have some 5K fun!



how do YOU choose?

sounds so serious, right? But I'm only talking about shoes :)

We have local running stores dedicated to helping people find that "perfect" shoe and while I trust their judgement, I question why certain stores only carry specific brands? One local store sells only Mizuno's? Another local store carries all other brands, except for mizuno...hmmm? What if that shoe is not right for me? Right now, I run in Asics gel nimbus and they are great, but pretty worn out and it's almost time to buy a new pair. Which brings me to my question...what shoe brand is right for YOU? I know I love Nike Shox, but only because they come in cool colors and are totally fun to wear, but although I have over 8 pairs of them, they are NOT exercise shoes...for me! They are just too heavy and don't give me the support I need, anywhere! But they sure are cute :)

Ohhh I can't wait to see your responses, then it's time to shoe shop!!!
**Thank you to all of you that have signed up for the Independence 5K...I will be sending you a confirmation email soon and I'm happy to report that we've got about 3-4 sponsors already on board such as BondiBand, Shaklee, GU and more...If you haven't signed up yet, what are you waiting for?? Keep spreading the word!!! and SIGN UP HERE!**

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Independence 5K









What is a virtual race? running a specific distance without being present in the actual race location. This may be your first race or just another goal you can crush..either way, have FUN!





Date: The week of July 3rd-9th...to celebrate 4th of July!





Location: 3.1 miles on your local route or on a treadmill!





RESULTS: Results will be accepted no later than July 11th at midnight! And this race is done on the honor system...it doesn't matter your time, because you will qualify for giveaways based upon your entries, not time!*upon completion, email your time and photo(optional) to rissarose80@yahoo.com





REGISTRATION: To register, you must be a public follower of http://letsmoveitmommas.blogspot.com/ and email me your name, email address and I will add you to the registry(you will receive email confirmation)





ENTRIES: One entry for emailing your finishing time, and TWO extra entries for sending a photo of you dressed in your favorite Independence Day attire!










*I am currently seeking sponsors for this virtual race, please email me ASAP if you are interested! I will post new giveaways/sponsors as they are added!










HELP SPREAD THE WORD AND SIGN UP NOW!!!

Friday, May 6, 2011

Wrappin' gone WILD!

Enter my giveaway for Van's Natural Foods HERE, ends 5/11/11!! As you know, I love to create fun wraps that our whole family will enjoy! This newest creation might be my favorite, because the slaw gives it a nice crunch with every bite...plus, with all these veggies, it sure is filling and tastes great too :)


Move It Momma's Turkey Slaw Wrap

You'll Need:

carb balance tortillas

Boars Head oven roasted turkey breast

1 slice 2% mozzarella

1/2 c broccoli slaw without dressing

1/2 small avocado-sliced

romaine lettuce


Wrap it up and ENJOY! The slaw gives it a great crunch, while the avocado gives it a creamy texture without added fat/calories from having to use dressing! I made these yesterday and I think I'm eating one again today...Yep folks, it's that good :)



Today's Workout: A nice morning run on the water! Ahhh so nice! I woke the boys up super early, so we could head out before the heat really set in! It was perfect, a nice breeze and I was able to go 4.01 miles instead of my normal 5K route! Yay! I've really improved, but there are days where I wish I could up my pace/distance! I'll get there, it'll take time and I must be patient! I have also decided to have friends join me in a little running group...hopefully it takes off and we'll be running and reaching our goals together as a group?! It will be nice to have that added motivation from friends and running buddies!!

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Van's Natural Foods review and GIVEAWAY!!

Have you heard of Van's Natural Foods? We were so excited to try these because of the wide variety of flavors and their commitment to creating healthy foods that taste great! Here's the label on the 8 whole grain, Maple! (these were THE family favorite!) Oh my goodness, we all tried the 8 Grain Maple for breakfast with scrambled egg whites and turkey sausage and we were TOTALLY impressed! SO yummy! The boys said they tasted great too and asked for them the next day :) Guess that says something about these waffles??! 100% Kid-approved!! The price is reasonable for the product and the minimally processed products, which is what I love about them! The wheat and gluten-free flax were great too, and the blueberry had good flavor, but a little sweet for our liking! Since we sampled these waffles, we've been buying the 8 Whole Grain Maple each time we go to the store. It's a great breakfast choice for my family when we're on the go and I don't have time to prepare something from scratch! They offer wheat and gluten free, Organic, lite, and whole grain products...lots of healthy choices, right?!
How would you and your family like to give Van's Natural Foods a try?!
I have coupons for THREE of my lovely followers! I'd love to send you some and let you try the flavors that sounds the best to you :) These were super easy to find in our local grocery store and if you have trouble finding them in your area, just check out their website HERE and click on the store locator section of the site!

Win FREE waffles, pancakes or french toast:
Mandatory Entry- Visit Van's Natural Foods and tell me which flavor you'd like to try?
Extra Entries-
Follow my blog via GFC and leave a comment telling me that you do! (1 entry)
Follow my family blog, McClellen Memories and leave a comment telling me that you do! (1 entry)
Blog about this giveaway on your blog and leave a comment with the link to your post! (2 entries)

Good Luck-Giveaway ends 5/11/11!! Don't forget to leave a valid email address along with your comments, so that I may contact you when you win :)

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

22 Days REVIEW!













Recently I had the privilege to sample 22 Days Nutritional Products and I'd love to share my experience with all of you! First of all, I love that these products are vegan and vegetarian made using raw and organic superfoods...what's not to love, right?!










If you haven't seen these products or heard about them, let me give you some important information about why these products are different from the well-known nutrition products on the market today. This company believes that if you eat well, you live well and I could not agree more :) Their bars are lightly sweetened with organic ingredients, they are gluten and soy free.





*You might be training for a marathon, triathlon or other athletic event, or you might be at the start of your workout journey...either way, these bars are worth a try!





My personal favorite: The Fruit Nut Karma, with the mix of fruity and nutty...so yummy!
Why 22 Days: They are committed to helping people live a healthier life and they want to provide the proper tools to make a positive difference everyday!

For more information about 22Days Nutrition, please visit www.22daysnutrition.com











Monday, May 2, 2011

March of Dimes-March for Babies 2011

left: my mom(aka MeMe), my boys and I, and our buddies Jenny and Parker!

Just wanted to share our professional, post-race pic :) Whew I'm lookin' pretty sweaty and my boys are too!! I still cannot believe I ran the full 5 miles...it may not sound like much, but for me...it's a HUGE accomplishment! Now I'm ready to take on more mileage, so we'll see!! Ha and we had to photograph my 'ol stroller too, it's got a lot of miles on it as well!!!

Sunday, May 1, 2011

wheat germ, flaxseed or BOTH?!

If you read my blog, you'll know that I pretty much add flaxseed meal to almost every dish that I prepare! I figure what's the harm in adding omega-3's and fiber to my family's diet, right? :) I have shared that I'll add flaxseed to cereal, oatmeal, breads, pancakes, pasta dishes, sauces, soups and MORE! On the other hand, I have not tried it but I know that there are some benefits to adding wheat germ to your diet as well, and it can be added to most dishes as well!





Source


Benefits of flaxseed:


Omega 3's are the good fats, each tablespoon provides 1.8 grams of plant omega 3's. Fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Flax has been labeled as one of the most powerful plant foods on Earth! Studies have shown by adding flaxseed to your diet, it will reduce your risk for heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes. I'm all for that, aren't you?!







Benefits of wheat germ:


Made from a wheat kernel, you can buy wheat germ raw or toasted. Adding wheat germ to your diet, you will be adding iron and calcium, zinc and potassium among other essential nutrients! Wheat germ is a great source of Vitamin B and also contains one of the richest forms of Vitamin E. I think I'd like some added vitamins and minerals to my diet, don't you?!














So, with your cooking...do you use flaxseed, wheat germ or BOTH?? I am thinking now that I know the added benefits of wheat germ, I may try adding to our family diet as well!!