Mommy Needs Motivation!

So I was thinking, with Luke just turning three months (pictures to come!), I think it is time I head back to the gym! I still have some stubborn pregnancy pounds hanging on that I'm ready to be rid of but I don't think they are going anywhere on their own. And I have missed my gym time and me time very much these past few months. But I needed a little inspiration and motivation to get my butt in gear.

Enter these:

Aren't they cute!? They happen to match some of my work out clothes and we all know that dressing like we know what we are doing is half the battle! Bonus part is I got them on sale :) These are a cross training shoe which is perfect for me because I usually either do cardio on the elliptical or treadmill, weight training or group classes consisting of strength training & cardio combos. Unfortunately I can no longer run more than a few minutes due to plantar fasciitis I developed several years ago. No fun because running is the best thing to get in shape fast!

I tried out my new shoes last week and took Callie and Luke to the Kids Club at the gym while Keira was at VBS. I was afraid Callie would be reluctant to go since it has been a while. She did great and had a preschool buddy there to play with. Luke was happy chillin' in the swing when I picked them up and Callie didn't want to leave!!! Even though I had a short time there it was so worth it. I definitely felt invigorated after some time on the elliptical! Now the problem will be trying to go on a regular basis; my gym requires reservations for infants in the childcare center and they can be made up to 48 hours in advance. I will be darned if the last 2 times I have called they are already booked for the time slot I wanted! Its over 100 degrees here this week so I will NOT be exercising outdoors!

I'm hoping to get in a groove and have a good workout schedule down. In the meantime, at least I have cute shoes, right!? What motivates you to get moving?? I'd love to hear!

Summer Smoothie

It's definitely HOT here in Texas!!! Being July and all you know. To stay cool I love to make this healthy smoothie drink for me and the girls. It's a great alternative to the normally syrupy popsicles and sno-cones we indulge in a lot during the summer months. What's great about this recipe is that the only sugar in it is that occurring naturally from the fruit or milk/juice. My girls get very excited when I tell them we are making smoothies. They love to help and they think of it as a treat while I am happy they are getting in some good nutrients! It is full of vitamin C, fiber and protein.

You can change it up however you like and we often use most of the same ingredients but alternate a few things based on what we have on hand. Here is what is usually in our smoothie:

Summer Smoothie

- 1/4 cup OJ
- 1/4 cup milk
- Small container of greek yogurt, any flavor
- Handful of ice cubes, maybe 7-8
- One banana
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen rasberries
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 4-5 strawberries

For an extra healthy boost, add:
- 1-2 TBSP of ground flax seed

For a sweeter smoothie, add:
- 2 TBSP honey

I have to admit that I don't usually measure ingredients on this, just pour the liquids til it looks right and toss in handfuls of fruit. If the consistency is too thick, add a little more milk.

Pour everything into the blender and blend for 15-20 seconds or so depending on your blender. Serve it up in a fun or colorful cup, pop in a straw and enjoy!