Weigh-in Day {Week 2}

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Today marks the completion of my 2nd week on Weight Watchers. This week I lost...

Weight Lost This Week: -1 lb

Total Weight Loss: -3 lbs

Not gonna lie, I'm a little disappointed in myself. See, up until Saturday, I was doing great. And then we decided to bring the Halloween candy in from it's safely hidden spot outside in the car "because it could freeze out there". "I'll just have one" soon turned into "I'll just have five" and the rest is pretty much history. I, apparently, have no self-control when it comes to fun size candy bars. Who knew?! This upsets me because I'm pretty sure had I not gone ape shit on the candy, like I did, I would've lost more weight. I mean, let's be real, three pounds every two weeks isn't going to cut it.

Also, you know how I said I would work out at least twice during the week? Didn't happen. Yeah, it's been cold out, but I still could've shredded with Jillian. Shame, shame.

Anyway, here are my goals for the coming week:

• Steer clear of the candy (I will make sure it's all given out tonight, come hell or high water)
• Exercise at least 2x (but, like, actually DO IT!)
• Drink more water, even when I'm not thirsty (lately I haven't been drinking nearly enough fluids)

I'm hoping that doing these things will help to pick up the pace. This week I'm shooting for three pounds, which should we totes attainable for me. If I lose more, awesome, but I'd be cool with three.

Mmmkay, enough with the food/poundage talk! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

(Sidenote: My mom didn't make it out here after all, but we're still gonna make the most of it. Be back tomorrow with pics!)

Friday Favorites {10.28.11}

This past week has flown by, yet, somehow, I'm still super ready for the weekend to begin! Isn't this always the case, though? All I hafta say is...TGIF! Like, for realsies.

On Sunday, my mom's coming out here to spend Halloween with us and I cannot wait! She came out to San Diego (where we were stationed before VA) last year to go trick-or-treating with Nico and I (who was incredibly preggo, btw) while Dan was deployed, so it is kind of becoming a tradition to spend it with her. (Aren't creating traditions with your little ones just the best?)

Anyway, here are my faves from around the interwebs this week...

1. Isn't this teapot collection amazing? So pretty!

2. Being that I'm still a relatively new blogger, I am really digging these tips for finding your place on the internet. So much good advice!

3. This BYO picnic is too cute!

4. How sweet is this gender announcement? I just love this family!

5. Mandy's gone and done again with her easy Crock-Pot recipes! I'll definitely be making this over the weekend. NOM!

6. I am loving all things ombre right now. These nails are no exception.

7. This is too funny! I totally do this!!

8. Aren't these pillows just adorable? And a portion of the proceeds go to charity!

9. I recently made a sweet new blog friend, Jordan! Check out her blog!

10. Need a last minute idea for Halloween? Then check out this awesome rag doll costume tutorial!

With my mom coming in town, it'll be quiet around here for the next few days. I'm going to take a much needed blog break to focus on what matters most: my family. I'll leave you now with the promise of Halloween photos upon my return (which may or may not include the hubs dresses in a far too small Mario costume). So be on the lookout for those!

Happy Halloween, everyone!

What's Cookin'? - Crock-Pot Zucchini Ziti

Last night for dinner, I made a light version of zucchini ziti. In where else? The crock-pot, of course! If you're craving carbs, but don't wanna pack on the pounds, then this recipe's for you. At just 6 points per serving, this may very well be my new go to pasta!

Ingredients:

• 1 jar marinara sauce (no sugar added)
• 3 cups whole-wheat penne shells (dry)
• 2 cups fat free cottage cheese
• 2 cups part-skim mozzarella, shredded
• 1 large zucchini, sliced
• 2 tsp dry oregano
• 2 tsp dry basil
• 1 tsp cracked black pepper

Directions:

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella, oregano, basil and black pepper.
2. Next, spoon 1/4 of marinara sauce onto the bottom of the Crock-Pot. Then add 1 cup pasta shells (placing them 1/4 inch from the sides of the Crock-Pot to prevent burning), 1/3 of zucchini slices and top with 1/3 of cheese mixture. Repeat until you have three layers. Top with remaining marinara and 1/2 cup of mozzarella.
3. Cover and cook on low for approximately 2 hours, or until pasta is al dente (firm but not hard).
4. Let cool 15 minutes before serving. 

We paired this with a romaine salad, but it would also be good with a chicken breast and/or a side of veggies.

Enjoy!

*Original recipe & nutrition facts found here (via Pinterest).

Lola Grace - 11 Months

Our little Lola turned 11 months old on the 16th. This month she's been crazy active! She's into everything and, therefore, pretty close to giving me a heart attack on the regular. But I wouldn't have it any other way!

Likes: giving high fives, talking, standing, cruising, wearing tutus, Yo Gabba Gabba, music, all kinds of fruit, feeding herself, "bubba's" (brother's) toys, meowing, shoes

Dislikes: the dark, nap time, her car seat, diaper changes, getting dressed, sleeping in her crib, her bouncer (all things she hasn't liked for quite some time)

Right now, she's super into music. She loves listening to music, "singing" along and especially dancing to it. Seeing her dance is just about the cutest thing ever! She'll balance against something and shake her little hips back and forth while wiggling the rest of her body parts. It kills me DEAD. every. single. time.

Ninety-five percent of the time she is the happiest baby ever, which I'm so very thankful for...BUT that other 5% of the time when she does get upset, she's going to make sure you know it! Homegirl's got the temper tantrum down pat. She's very spirited, to say the least.

She is talking up a storm these days! Every time she says something new, Dan and I will give each other this look, like, "did she really just say that?". When we ask her if she wants something, if she does, she'll say, "yeah". Other words currently in rotation are "yay" (along with a clap), "uh oh", "hi", "mama", "dada", "bubba" and of course, "nana" (milk). She's becoming quite the little talker, just like her big brother!

She's finally figured out how to pull herself up to a stand, meaning you'll rarely find her sitting down these days. She's constantly on the go. Also, she's started cruising along things, which she is so very proud of. I'm sure it won't be long before she's taking steps without holding onto anything. She's a brave one!

We're unsure how tall she is right now, but she got weighed recently at the doctor and was 18 lb. 15 oz. This surprised me somewhat because she was 17 lb. 5 oz. at her 6 month check-up, which means she's only gained a pound and a half in 5 months! I'm guessing it's because she's more active now and, therefore, burning more calories. She seems pretty tiny for her age, but she's healthy, and that's what matters!

I just love this baby girl to pieces! She's constantly learning new and different things, and I feel so lucky to be a part of it!

Blog Love

I'm featured over at Holding On to the Little Things! You can check it out here.

Also, would you mind sending a vote my way over at Top Baby Blogs? Just click the link below, and then again on the owl to the left. Thanks!

Weigh-in Day {Week 1}

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Today is my first official weigh-in day for Weight Watchers. After one week of strictly following my plan and sticking to my points allowance, I am happy to report that I'm down...

Weight Lost This Week: -2 lbs

While it might not seem like much, I'm quite proud of this. I have yet to incorporate exercise into my routine, so this is two pounds I lost simply by eating healthy (as I should be). Probably the best thing about Weight Watchers is that I don't feel like I'm on a diet. I'm just choosing healthier options and eating smaller portions. And I feel great about these choices! So good, in fact, that I feel like I finally "get" this saying:

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Not that I'm saying I'm skinny, by any means (hi, I lost two pounds). It's just now I think I understand what they're talking about. Basically, that there is nothing you could consume that's worth sacrificing your health for. And I couldn't agree more! I feel like the hardest part of dieting is getting over the hump of craving bad food. And I'm there. I can honestly say that I don't miss it. Not even a little bit. This may sound crazy, but it's like my body was ready for this change and embraced it with open arms. 

This week, I am hoping to incorporate at least 2 days of exercise into my routine. I don't have a lot of "free time" but think I can swing this. Even if it means going for a walk with Lola while Nico is at preschool. 

Here's to another week of becoming a healthier me!

Friday Favorites {10.21.11}

It's supposed to be in the 60's all weekend and I couldn't be more excited! Don't cha just love the fall? I know I sure do. The breezy weather and falling leaves make me all kinds of swoony.

Since we don't have anything planned this weekend, I asked Dan what he wanted to do and his response was, "absolutely nothing". Well, alrighty then! Though my guess is by Saturday afternoon, we'll all have a bad case of cabin fever. We shall see.

Now on to my favorite things!

1. All you mama's with boys out there, how true is this? (sorry, I can't seem to find the original source)

2. These little pumpkin pincushions are killing me with the cute! DEAD.

3. If, like me, you're not big into carving pumpkins, why not paint them instead?

4. I've been on a mission to find the perfect pair of boots and right now these are topping my list.

5. I can't wait to see this film! Such an important message.

6. After reading this post, I immediately added oats to my grocery list. YUM.

7. Tattling isn't a problem in our house just yet (knock on wood), but I still think these guys would be super fun to make with Nico.

8. How cute is this DIY manicure?! If only I had the patience, lol!

9. If you have an iPhone + little ones, then check out this awesome list of math and reading apps! Can't wait to download some of these for my little guy!

10. I am loving these tips for staying creative! I need to print this out and stick it on the fridge a-sap!

Okay, that's all I've got fer now. Have a great weekend, everyone!

First Birthday Party Planning

My little lady's first birthday is less than a month away and I've just now decided on a theme. Can you guess what it is? It's going to be a super, fun (drumroll, please) RAINBOW party!

Now that we've finally got the theme nailed down, it's time to kick it into high gear! On the agenda: order party invites & get 'em out, procure all of the party supplies (favors, decor, etc.), decide on cake(s) and pretty much everything else that is involved in planning a party. This should be a bit of a challenge for me because? A party planner, I am not. Luckily, she's too young to really know the difference.

Being that we don't have family nearby and only moved here a few short months ago, our guest list will be fairly short. I would say we'll probably only invite around 12-15 people. For this reason, I'd like to keep it somewhat simple. Nothing too over the top, ya feel me?

I've been gathering inspiration from all over the internet, and couldn't be more excited!

Here are some of my favorite party set ups...

source: one. two. three.

Some ideas I'm loving for the decor...

source: one. two. three. four. five. six.

And last but certainly not least, the cakes...

source: one. two. three.

To see more of my favorite party ideas, follow me on Pinterest. Now I'm off to plan a party!

Real Talk: Being Healthy (Because I'm Worth It!)

So I want to talk about something I don't like to talk about a lot: my weight. If you've been reading since I first started blogging back in June (unless you're my mom, you probably haven't), then you might remember this post. Basically, it was my (failed) attempt at losing 50 pounds by Christmas. At this point, I'm pretty sure this isn't going to happen. I could sit here all day and make excuses as to why it isn't, but I won't.

I've spent a lot of time over the past couple of weeks trying to figure out why it is that I'm having such a hard time dieting. I mean, I'm not really a "foodie" or addicted to food or anything (despite what Pinterest might indicate). I think, more than anything, the reason I haven't been losing weight is because I'm not putting enough thought into what it is that I'm consuming. During the day, I'm always the last one to get fed. By the time I do eat, it's usually something quick with little to no nutritional value. Then by the time dinner rolls around, I'm starving and, therefore, tend to overeat.

Growing up, I was never small. I've always had weight to lose. It wasn't until the summer before my senior year that I finally dropped this extra weight that I'd been carrying around for so long. After this, I vowed to keep it off, and did so for many years.

Then, around the time I was 23, I noticed the weight begin to creep back on. I'm sure many things contributed to my weight gain (long work hours, poor diet, etc.), but probably the biggest factor was my newfound relationship with Jack Daniels (thinking about this now makes me want to puke).

I assumed when I got pregnant that my weight would stop climbing because I was no longer drinking. Unfortunately, this wasn't the case. All of a sudden, I was hungry...like the wolf! I pretty much ate everything in sight for all 9 months of my pregnancy. I mean, it'll all fall off once I give birth, right? Wrong.

After having Nico, I did lose some of the weight immediately, but there was a lot of weight that didn't come off. This is where Weight Watchers came in. I joined the summer after he was born and dropped about 30 pounds. I found it to be pretty easy because Dan was deployed and Nico was just a baby, so I didn't have to worry about cooking for him yet. But then Dan came home and there was more than myself to consider. This isn't to say that he wasn't supportive, because he was. But for some reason, I have a much harder time sticking to my diet when I'm living with someone who isn't dieting.

This seesaw of losing and gaining continued on for quite awhile, directly in relation to when my hubby was home. Then I got pregnant with Lola. Around this time, something clicked. I realized I needed to be healthy for my baby. And so I was (as much as I could be anyway). I joined the Y and began walking on the days I wasn't at the gym. I also began eating much better. I believe this combo of exercise and healthy eating made for a much easier pregnancy this go round. I only gained 27 pounds the entire pregnancy and lost it almost immediately after she was born.

After dropping the baby weight, I knew I had much more to lose and now had the motivation to do so. I started seriously following my Weight Watchers plan at the beginning of the year and lost about 12 more pounds. But then I got all sorts of messed up on our cross-county move back in March. After a couple months of eating like shit, I'd finally had enough and decided to try and lose 50 lbs. by Christmas (see post above). This probably would've been possible if I had followed my diet, but I didn't.

It's been obvious to me for a while now that I haven't been making myself and my health a priority. But why? Why is it that my family is well taken care of and my home (usually) looks immaculate, but I'm just not putting this same level of effort into myself? Maybe it's because it's easier to worry about everyone and everything else. Who knows? But what I do know is that I want to be healthy. And more than wanting to be healthy, I need to be healthy. It is time that I put myself in the same regard as the other things that matter in my life.

I started doing Weight Watchers again yesterday and feel really good about it this time. A big part of the problem was calculating my points at dinner, since I was unable to figure out exactly how much I was eating. This should no longer be an issue since the dinners I've planned for the next two weeks are all low calorie, low fat and easy to count (a couple are even from my new Weight Watchers cookbook).

I've decided not to set any public goals this time, but will be posting my weekly progress here each Monday. I'm not going to be giving out my starting weight because, quite frankly, it's nobody's business. I will say this though, I have quite a bit to lose, and know it's not going to happen overnight. But I will lose it. This is my vow to myself.

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Party at the Park!

On Saturday we went to a birthday party for our neighbor's little girl, Jay, who was turning two. It was at a park near our house and other than it being a bit windy, the weather was perfect. Here are some photos from our day...

I really like the idea of having a party at the park. If it wasn't going to be so cold, I would definitely consider having Lola's first birthday there next month. So much fun!

Friday Favorites {10.14.11}

Welp, I'm officially sick...again. Jelly? Didn't think so. I woke up yesterday morning feeling awful. Unfortunately, I couldn't get in to see a doctor (surprise, surprise), so it was off to the ER I went! Three hours later, I was diagnosed with a severe sinus and ear infection. Lucky for me, it's nothing a Z-Pak and nasal spray can't fix. I'm just looking forward to the day when I'm no longer feeling icky. I swear, I am never this sick! I'm gonna go ahead and blame it on the season change. Maybe it's because we're now living in a place that has actual seasons? Who knows?! Whatever it is, I'm hoping I wake up tomorrow feeling back to normal. Mainly because we have a birthday party to attend and I don't wanna have to tell my 3-year old that we're skipping it because Mommy isn't feeling well. No, thank you! I'm just keeping my fingers crossed that these meds work their magic.

Okay, on to this week's faves. I hope you likey!

1. Being that I'm an unmedicated adult with ADD, I'm pretty sure I need to try this "Handy Tip For the Easily Distracted" by Miranda July. Originally found here.

2. This post has me wanting to go all out with the Halloween decor this year!

3. I'm pretty sure this milkshake is not diet-friendly, but darn it, it looks delicious!

4. I've always wanted to know how to transfer a photo to fabric. Now I do!

5. Isn't this calendar just the cutest? Meow.

6. Now that it's getting cooler out, I need a way to keep Lola's legs warm. I'm thinking these tights may be just the thing!

7. Check out this shop! I'm especially loving the little origami pins.

8. How sweet is this little DIY memory game? I'll definitely be saving this for when Lola is older!

9. Does anyone else watch this show? I just love it! This week's episode was especially good.

10. After seeing the 3 Ingredient BBQ Chicken both here and here, I know what I'll be making this weekend! NOM.

If you wouldn't mind, could you spare a quick second to send a vote my way? Just click the link below, and then again on the owl to the left. Thank you, and have a great weekend!

Our Day at the Apple Orchard & Fall Festival

Since Dan was off work this past Monday (Columbus Day), we decided to make the most of it and plan a little local adventure. On the agenda: apple picking and a pumpkin patch. A tall order with two little ones in tow, but we were totes up for it!

First, we met up with our dear friends and started the day off right with a trip to Cracker Barrel (somewhere I had, surprisingly, never eaten before). The pancakes were delish and, man, was this place charming! Take a seat outside in a rocking chair while waiting for your table? Don't mind if I do.

Lola patiently waiting for my food to arrive.

Once our bellies were full, we made a trip out to Hartland Orchard to get our apple pick on. Sadly, our trip here was cut short because most of the apples had fallen from the tree and were rotten. Luckily, I managed to snap a few quick shots! Isn't it pretty?

After deciding we'd rather not be eaten by bugs, we were off to our next destination: Cox Farms Fall Festival. If you live in the area and have kids, I highly recommend checking it out! We're talking corn mazes, hay rides, super awesome slides, farm animals...the works! It was, by far, the coolest pumpkin patch I've ever been to. And I'm pretty sure the kiddos would concur.

Here are some photos from our afternoon:

Update: Go here to see more from our day at the Pumpkin Patch.