Free Printable I Love You Cards + Easy Ways To Make Your Spouse Feel Loved

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This year one of my resolutions was to get healthy. What a loaded statement! A few years ago, that would have meant I wanted to exercise more and eat better. Now, when I say I want to work on my health, it not only includes those things, but it also means that I want to work on my mental, emotional and relationship health. Trying to work on all of that at once has been overwhelming, but with small steps it has been an amazing journey! Far from perfect, but I am happy to report that focusing on small things has made a HUGE impact on my health in every aspect possible! It’s funny, but when you put effort into other avenues of health, it seems that it is easier to make those choices like picking more vegetables and going to the gym to exercise. I’ve also started to incorporate Nature Made® vitamins from Walmart in my daily routine. I have to admit something to you thought, I’m HORRIBLE at remembering to take my vitamins in the morning. HOR.RIB.LE. Dustin on the other hand, is really good at remembering. I was constantly telling him about 4 in the afternoon, ‘Aww man! I forgot to take my vitamins this morning!’ In the past three months or so, something awesome has happened. Every morning, he makes me a cup of coffee and brings me my vitamins. Y’all, that’s an act of love. I don’t think he knows how much that small act of kindness means (well, I tell him so, I hope he knows)! His one small act of kindness inspired me to do return the favor, but in a different way. I created these fun love notes that you can print here. Find a small act (or try one of our ideas below!), print off a card and fill in the blank of I Love… and leave it for your spouse to find. Even though this is an act of kindness to make your spouse feel loved, it will make you feel good too! Make a surprise breakfast. Take a tip from Dustin and include some vitamins too! Nature Made® Vitamin D3 Adult Gummies are a great one add to breakfast. Vitamin D3 helps support bone, teeth, muscles and immune health.† D3 is actually the body’s preferred form to get vitamin D.* Nature Made® Vitamin D3 Adult Gummies also provide 2000 IU of vitamin D3 per serving. As the saying goes, ‘A well-functioning immune system is foundational for your health.’



Compliment him. Make a honey-do list….and then do it. Hand him a list already checked off and tell him to enjoy himself.



Cook their favorite meal. Lasagna anyone? Fill up his gas tank. Silly? Yes. Practical? Totally. A nice, small gesture that makes someone smile? Absolutely!



Exercise together. Check out some fun couples workouts on Pinterest! Offer a massage. Without expecting one in return. If he offers, even consider saying no. Sometimes, it feels nice to just be spoiled every once in a while.



Frame something important. For Dustin’s first Father’s Day we celebrated together, I purchased a Grateful Dead poster for him and had it framed. He used to have the same poster and loved it, but life happens and it was colored on and torn. The story and meaning behind this silly poster was everything though. I even wrote a letter on the back of his frame. When I told him I had a gift for him (and he saw how large it was) you could tell he was definitely surprised! I don’t even think he remembered telling me about the poster! It now hangs in our bedroom (although it doesn’t match my modern farmhouse decorating scheme I have going on….but letting him win that one is an act of love in itself)! Let your spouse sleep in. Sleep is VITAL for everyone, especially me. Not just for my beauty sleep, but when I get a good night’s sleep, I feel SO much better. Nature Made® Melatonin Adult Gummies are perfect for me. I can be tired, laying in bed trying to go to sleep, but my brain’s goes over a zillion things I need to do or didn’t get done that day. Nature Made® Melatonin Adult Gummies provides 2.5 mg of melatonin, which helps support my sleep and it helps reset my body’s sleep/wake cycle.† Plus, they taste great! You can find Nature Made® Adult Gummies at your local Walmart. These vitamins are perfect for not only supplementing your health, but a great way to use in an act of love to support your loved ones too! Be sure to pin our ways to make your spouse feel loved, while using the free printable love notes!

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

*Vitamin D3 is more effective than vitamin D2 at raising and maintaining adequate levels of circulating vitamin D in the body.†

       

Healthy Habits Calendar – January 2017

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

I can’t believe 2017 is here. Are you ready? I’ve been working hard on getting things ready around here to help make sure that 2017 is the year that resolutions happen! I’m telling you….THIS.IS.THE.YEAR! 🙂

So if you are looking to get healthy in 2017 – I’ve totally got you covered! First, join our free Facebook group! Why?

  • Healthy challenges (small things you can do each day)
  • Monthly fitness challenges (January’s challenge is all about lunges)
  • Recipes
  • Tips, tricks, advice
  • Giveaways just for that group
  • Accountability
  • Support
  • Community
  • It’s fun. This is a safe place for people of all starting points – whether you have 100 pounds to lose, you are working on better nutrition, or you have been living a healthy lifestyle for a while now but just want like minded friends. Whatever your reason, welcome!

Second, print out our healthy living challenge! The point of our healthy living challenge is to give you one small thing that you can do to improve your health each day. Sometimes it is a reminder to get some exercise, sometimes it is about learning, sometimes it is an easy habit that you can start doing. The point is that there are so many small things that we can do that really add up! On my journey to get healthy, I have found sometimes I have gotten overwhelmed. There is so much change that I want to do that it can be daunting. Hopefully, this helps you not feel that way. Being healthy is meant to be a journey…and a fun one! This month we are focusing a lot on hydration so you will see several days that talk about water! 🙂

Here are some posts and free printables that will help you this month! (We will be adding more so be sure to check back or to join our Facebook group for more!)

  1. The Lunge Challenge
  2. How to take proper body measurements and a free printable tracker
  3. Test your current fitness level and a free printable
  4. Meal planning printable and free printable grocery list

Here we go! You’ve got 2017! Don’t forget to pin!

       

Fitness Level Printable: Track Your Progress!

I’ve been getting ready for 2017 and the new resolutions that come with it. Ok, well the same resolution, except this year….Y’all, this is the year that it get’s done! For me personally, it’s not about seeing a certain number on the scale or even about a particular pair of jeans. It’s about making progress, finding the joy that I used to find in working out (something I will be honest, lately, I have been dragging my feet dreading) and being able to say that I live a healthy lifestyle. And, if that number on the scale comes or those special jeans I’ve been saving in the back of my closet end up fitting, then that’s just a bonus.

So. Where to start right?

First, join our free Facebook group. No, it’s not a place to have someone try to sell you a workout or supplements. Instead:

  • Healthy challenges (small things you can do each day)
  • Monthly fitness challenges (January’s challenge is all about lunges)
  • Recipes
  • Tips, tricks, advice
  • Giveaways just for that group
  • Accountability
  • Support
  • Community
  • It’s fun. This is a safe place for people of all starting points – whether you have 100 pounds to lose, you are working on better nutrition, or you have been living a healthy lifestyle for a while now but just want like minded friends. Whatever your reason, welcome!

How To Take Your Body Measurements Free Printable Tracker

Now that we are all friends, let’s work on being able to see that progress. Remember, it’s not just about the scale. One other way to track progress is by measuring your body in inches. You can get our free printable tracker here as well as learn the proper way to take measurements.

Another way to track progress is by tracking your workouts. At first, working out is hard. But after a while, you get faster, stronger, more flexible. This is a great way to track that progress!

In the first column, you will write down the exercise you are tracking. In the second column, track where you are today. Then, in the following columns, when you retest yourself in one month, two, etc write down your new results.

Here is one with a few exercises written in that I plan on using. Before you start, decide how you are going to test yourself. For me, for exercises like crunches, burpees, push ups and the stairs, I plan on giving myself 2 minutes and I will record the number that I was able to get done. For the plank, I plan on timing how long I can keep it in proper form.

There are extra spaces – you can fill them with whatever you would like and to reflect whatever goals you have! Maybe you want to track how many laps you can swim at the pool. Or maybe you got a fitness dvd but you can’t quite make it through the whole thing yet. Why not write down how many minutes you were able to accomplish? Do you have a treadmill? Track how fast you can walk/run a mile.

Another way that this form can be useful is for weight training. Print off the blank version and take it to the gym. Write down how many reps or sets you did and at what weight.

The numbers at the top don’t have to reflect months! Maybe you are retesting and tracking weekly.

However it works for you and for your goals is exactly how you should use it!

To print, simply right click to save it to your computer and print!

fitness tracker

I hope to see you in our Facebook group! Don’t forget to pin!

Looking for more free printables?

       

How To Take Body Measurements + Free Printable

You’ve worked really hard at getting to the gym (or moving in your living room!); you resisted that cupcake at the office party; you avoided fast food even though your stomach is grumbling and eat something healthier when you get home. You are super proud of yourself this week. You checked off all of the boxes on your list. So when you step on the scale waiting for those numbers to reflect a job well done, you are disappointed that they stay the same. Or worse, go up.

It’s ok! It happens. And it’s not necessarily a bad sign. So don’t give up. While the numbers on the scale tell us a lot, when it comes to your weight loss journey there is something that can be a little more motivating than just the number on the scale. Do you know what it is?

How To Take Your Body Measurements Free Printable Tracker

The numbers on your measuring tape! You’ve heard that muscle weighs more than fat, so sometimes the scale may not change as much as you would like it to (or in the direction you would like it to), but you are in fact, getting smaller. (Or if you are trying to bulk up, getting bigger!) A measuring tape will show you your measurements in a way that the scale can’t.

If you are working on getting healthy this year or trying to lose a few pounds, this is in my opinion, the best way to track! (PS. Have you joined our free Facebook group? You will get monthly fitness challenges – for all levels, as well as monthly challenges, tips, tricks, accountability, giveaways, contests and a great community to talk about your goals of getting healthy!)

How To Take Your Body Measurements

  • When taking measurements, stand tall with your muscles relaxed and your feet together.
  • When measuring, apply constant pressure to the tape (so it doesn’t sag) without pinching the skin.
  • Use a flexible measuring tape, such as plastic or cloth. This one is my favorite!
  • Measure under the same conditions each time, such as wearing the same clothes (or none at all).
  • Measure yourself in front of a mirror to make sure the tape is positioned correctly. If possible, have someone else do the measuring for you.
  • The place to take some of these measurements will vary slightly from person to person. To ensure accuracy, just remember to take them in the same place on your body each time.
  • Track your measurements. Being able to write down your numbers and seeing the change is a huge motivation!

How To Take Your Body Measurements Free Printable Tracker

You can save our free printable tracker and print it from home! I like to measure 6 areas when I am tracking my weight loss: the upper arm, chest, waist, stomach, hips and upper thigh. I also do track my weight as well as inches. Some people like to track additional areas such as their neck or calf, but for me, these 6 areas are enough. I always start my sheet with my original starting point, no matter if I am 3 weeks in or 30 weeks. I think being able to see where you started from is important through your journey. At the end of the week, I total up how many inches I have lost. While it’s nice to see, 1/4 of an inch here or 1/2 of an inch there…it’s really nice to total up all of those lost inches at the end!

Here are some tips on how to take your body measurements:

  • Upper arm (1) – Measure around the largest part of your arm.
  • Chest (2) – Place your measuring tape right under your breasts/pecs and measure around the torso. If you are wanting to measure your bust, then the measuring tape will lay right across your nipples measuring the largest part of your chest. When the measuring tape wraps around your back make sure to keep it parallel to the floor.
  • Waist (3) – You measure your waist at it’s narrowest point about half an inch above your belly button. Everyone is different, so just look for where your body naturally narrows. Before you measure, exhale your breath. You will want to measure before you inhale again.
  • Stomach (4) – Many traditional trackers don’t have you measure your stomach. But for me, I’m working on losing weight and that includes the area in my stomach, so I track it. The stomach is between your waist and your hips.
  • Hips (5) – Place the measuring tip around your widest part of your hips and butt keeping it parallel to the ground.
  • Thigh (6) – Measure around the largest part of your upper thigh.

Don’t forget to join us on Facebook!

Looking for more free printables?

How To Take Your Body Measurements Free Printable TrackerAnd don’t forget to pin our Body Measurements Progress Tracker!

 



       

January 2017 Fitness Challenge – Lunge Challenge

While everyone else is busy hanging their stockings and singing Christmas carols, we are over here working on some really amazing and really BIG changes! We are still going to have our Facebook page (you have liked it right?) but we are breaking things down a little more to create some awesome communities. If you are on this post, then I know that you will absolutely love our It’s a Fabulous Healthy Life Facebook group!

This group is meant to encourage you and help support you on a healthy lifestyle journey. Living a healthy lifestyle is one of my goals (for 2017 and beyond!) I’m not an expert, but I wanted a place where we can all come to a safe place, join together and help support each other’s goals whether that is to lose weight, to eat healthier or just have an overall healthier lifestyle. It will be filled with fun challenges (no pressure to join!), tips, tricks, ideas, giveaways only for our group, a place to ask questions, find support in one another and for accountability if you need it. We would love to have you join! (It’s definitely free! This is not a group to sell you on a program or supplement! 😉 )

January 2017 Healthy Living Challenge

If you are in our group, then you’ve seen our January 2017 Healthy Living Challenge calendar! This calendar is full of small things you can do each day to live a healthier life. These are great things to try. I think, for me at least, saying I was going to start living a healthy lifestyle was kind of overwhelming. But really, it’s a lot of small changes that add up. If you follow the calendar, this is a great way to think about what small challenges you can make!

As you can see, Sunday January 1st the first thing on the list is to start the lunge challenge. That’s this! Each month not only will we have a healthy living challenge, but we will also have a fitness challenge.

January 2017 Healthy Living Challenge

For January, it’s all about the lunges. This isn’t meant to replace your workouts, but it’s a great way to supplement your workouts. Each day, you will see a number of lunges to do each day (per leg). There are lots of different lunges. I like to mix it up. So I am doing:

  • Forward lunges on Sunday
  • Side lunges on Monday
  • Lunge kicks on Tuesday
  • Reverse lunges on Wednesday
  • Jumping lunges on Thursday (These are the hardest for me!)
  • And lunges of my choice on Friday
  • Saturdays are the day off! WOOP WOOP!

If you need to make the lunges more challenging, try adding dumbbells.

If you are having trouble, you can try breaking up the number of lunges. While you should push yourself, keep in mind that you know your body best. Do your best and as many as you can, even if it isn’t the number on the calendar. Progress is progress. And if you are making progress than that is what is all about!!

Not sure how to do lunges? Here is a quick guide and how to videos:

How To Do A Forward Lunge

Stand with feet hip-width apart, engage core, and take a big step backward. Engage glutes as you bend front knee to lower body so back knee lightly taps floor while keeping upper body upright. Drive front heel into floor to return to starting position.

How To Do A Side Lunge

Stand with your feet and knees together. Take a large step with your right foot to the right side and lunge toward the floor. Make sure your right knee does not extend past your toes and keep your left leg relatively straight.

How To Do Lunge Kicks

Stand straight, face front, keep your core tight and your back flat. As you lunge, keep the front knee aligned with the ankle and keep your weight loaded in the front heel. Exhale as you kick, and then return to the starting position or go directly into a new lunge.

(To do a reverse lunge follow the instructions above, but omit the kick!)

How To Do Jumping Lunges

Start standing tall with your feet staggered, your left foot slightly in front of your right. Making sure you’re not too stiff, keep your stance active with your knees bent in a slight but not full lunge. Engage your core and push off the bottom of both feet into a jump, switching the position of your feet in midair, landing in a basic lunge with your right leg in front. Without rest, repeat this movement alternating which leg is in front. To prevent injury, make sure your back leg is bent directly underneath your body and your front leg is bent at 90 degrees at the knee and hip.

Be sure to join us on Facebook!

Looking for more free printables?

January Fitness Challenge: Lunges

Don’t forget to pin!

       

10 Vitamins Every Woman Needs

 

 

I’ve been trying REALLY hard to take better care of myself and putting my health first. After all, I’m not getting younger. So I’ve been trying to eat healthy. I’ve been trying to get more active. And I’ve been taking my SmartyPants vitamins. And I’ve been doing research about what I really need to live a healthy life.

Here is what I found. A list of 10 vitamins and minerals that every woman (regardless of their age) should make sure that they are getting enough of. (Just so you know – this list is in no particular order!) 🙂

Pumpkin seeds in spoon close up Magnesium
I admit – Magnesium is something that I knew nothing about! Turns out that it is some pretty important stuff!

Magnesium is necessary to help maintain normal muscle and nerve function. It also helps to regulate your blood sugar level, keep a normal blood pressure, regulate heart rhythm and support a healthy immune system. Oh and it helps to boost energy! It may also help prevent cardiovascular disease, diabetes and hypertension. A Hardvard University study found that a high magnesium intake cut the risk of diabetes by 33%. It’s also been shown by some studies to ward off depression and migraines. Pretty cool huh?

It’s recommended that you get 320 mg per day. magnesium is connected to other nutrients in the body such as calcium, vitamin K and vitamin D. You can find it naturally in foods such as green vegetables, some beans, nuts, seeds (like pumpkin seeds!), fish, avocado, bananas, and dark chocolate.

 

Vitamin A
Vitamin A

It’s recommended that you get 700 IU of Vitamin A. It will help to promote growth and development in your body, in particular your eyes, immune system and your skin. It can actually help to reduce acne! It also may prevent some types of cancer.

You can find vitamin A in lots of foods. Beta-Carotene (think orange, yellow and red fruits and veggies) will be converted to Vitamin A in your body. Sweet potatoes, carrots, red peppers, most fruits, tomatoes and broccoli are all good sources of Vitamin A.

tasty almonds nuts, isolated on white
Vitamin B

Vitamin B is an important and there are very many kinds of B vitamins such as B1, B2, B3 etc. The recommended amount varies for each B vitamin. I love SmartyPants Vitamins For Women because they contain good amounts of B12, B6 and B5!

Vitamin B is important to boost energy, support a healthy metabolism, and improve your hair, skin and nails. It’s also a key role in brain function.

You can get vitamin B in a variety of foods like avocado, bananas, oatmeal, almonds, cheese and eggs, just to name some.

Ripe avocado on a wooden board in the studio
 

Folic Acid

Folic Acid is actually a B Vitamin but it’s actually so important that it has it’s own category. 🙂 You should have a daily intake of Folic Acid (also known as Folate) of 400 mcg each day. If you are pregnant, or trying to get pregnant, it is recommended that you up that to 800 mcg. (Did you know if you are expecting or planning on expecting SmartyPants Vitamins have prenatal vitamins as well?)

Folic Acid can prevent up to 70% of some birth defects, can help to prevent some kinds of cancer, can help prevent heart disease and strokes, is a natural antidepressant and can improve your hair, skin and nail’s appearance. It also can help to reduce some effects of aging – including memory loss and help to improve brain functions. Folic Acid is really important!

You can find folic acid in avocados, spinach, asparagus, citrus fruits, strawberries, and eggs to name a few.

Fresh salmon fillet
Omega 3’s

You may have heard about Omega 3’s as fish oil and they have been in the news a lot. Omega 3’s can help to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer and arthritis. It also helps your brain with memory and performance. Many children’s vitamins are also adding Omega 3’s not only for brain function but because it can help with behavior.

(Tip: SmartyPants Vitamins use eco-friendly Omega 3 DHA & EPA! That’s super important to me!)

Some of the foods that you can get Omega 3’s in include: fish and nut oils. Salmon is what comes to most people’s minds when you talk about Omega 3’s!

Various types of cheese composition
Calcium

Did you know that bone loss starts to happen in women in their 20’s? Calcium helps keep teeth and bones strong and healthy. It also fights against bone loss and osteoporosis. Calcium also helps your body absorb iron.

You can get calcium in dairy products and dark green leafy vegetables. You should get at least 1,000 mg of calcium each day – 1,500 if you are over 50.

Raw skinless chicken breast fillets
Iron

You should be getting 8.1 mg of iron each day! Iron helps you to make red blood cells, is essential for proper cell growth and helps to prevent your body from being susceptible to infections.

You can get iron in chicken, lean red meat, turkey, fish, beans and green leafy vegetables.

Oranges Fruit with leaves over Wooden background
Vitamin C

I am one of those people who swears by Vitamin C. I take a Vitamin C supplement the second I feel a cold coming on and boom! It’s gone! Vitamin C is known to boost your immune system. It’s also known to help you be alert (which is another reason OJ is so good in the morning!) and improve concentration. It can also help improve conditions of your skin and hair as well as reduce some physical signs of aging.

You should get 60 mg of Vitamin C everyday. Luckily it is easy to get – it’s in all fruits and vegetables! Or in your morning SmartyPants vitamin!

Three fresh organic portabello mushroom on white background
Vitamin D

Do you wear sunscreen? The answer should be of course! 🙂 Sunshine is what helps our bodies make Vitamin D, but with sunscreen (which is good!!) many people are not making enough Vitamin D. To give yourself a little boost be sure to eat foods like portabella mushrooms, fish, and milk and orange juice that have been fortified with Vitamin D. You may also consider taking a supplement since this is a harder vitamin to easily get through food. An estimated 85% of US adults have a Vitamin D deficiency. Luckily SmartyPants Vitamins gives you 250% of your daily recommended Vitamin D.

Why? Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and can help prevent diseases like diabetes, some cancers, depression and heart disease.

Fresh spinach
Vitamin E

Vitamin is helps your body form red blood cells and may help to prevent some intestinal disorders. It also will slow down age related changes.

You should get 12 IU each day for the recommended intake of Vitamin E. You can find it in spinach (and leafy greens), hazelnuts, peanut butter and sunflower seeds – just to name a few sources!

It can be hard to get all of your recommended daily vitamins through food alone. That’s why you really need a great vitamin. Obviously SmartyPants vitamins are one that I highly recommend! They are really good. Like crazy good! And these yummy gummy vitamins pack a big punch!

  • Vitamin A – 30%
  • Vitamin C – 100%
  • Vitamin D – 250%
  • Vitamin E – 100%
  • Vitamin K – 40%
  • B1 – 5%
  • B3 – 20%
  • B6 – 100%
  • Folate (Folic Acid) – 100%
  • B12 – 1667%
  • Biotin – 100%
  • Calcium – 100%
  • Iodine – 100%

RIGHT?! Plus, there are a few more things I love about them.

While they contain a lot of good stuff, they don’t contain any bad stuff. And that’s something most vitamins can’t say! SmartyPants don’t contain:

  • GMO
  • Gluten
  • Synthetic Colors, Flavors, Preservatives
  • Yeast
  • Soy allergens (this is a big one with me!)
  • Wheat
  • Milk
  • Peanuts
  • Tree nuts
  • Fish allergens
  • Shellfish
  • Salicylates

They are also third party lab tested (actually they go through tons of testing to make sure they are consistently the best!) and use eco-friendly sources of Omega 3’s.

SmartyPants Vitamins has gummies for the whole family including women, men, children, and prenatal. And they are easily available at many stores and online!

This post has been sponsored by SmartyPants vitamins. All thoughts and opinions and Smarty Love are my own.

       

#SmartyRoutines Twitter Party

I am so excited about working with SmartyPants! We have been big fans of their gummy vitamins for a while now.

They are my absolute favorite! Why?

  1. They are gummy vitamins so they are easy to take. Even as an adult, I would rather eat a gummy vitamin than take a pill!
  2. They are delicious. Like super good!
  3. They use the BEST ingredients. Their vitamins are non-GMO and contain no high-fructose corn syrup. Plus they are gluten free and contain no yeast, wheat, milk, eggs, gluten, salt, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, synthetic colors, artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives.
  4. Even their Omega 3s are sourced from eco-friendly small fish populations.
  5. SmartyPants vitamins pack in your vitamin needs in a yummy gummy. Ok maybe, that one was mentioned twice, but it is important! (Find out more about what goes into their vitamins here!)

school routines 2

Join us Wednesday, August 31 at 9:00 PM (Eastern time!) to talk all about morning routines and SmartyPants Vitamins! We will be giving away tons of prizes including several bottles of vitamins, a Walgreen’s gift card and a Keurig coffee machine. Everything you need to start a morning routine of your own! (Want to see our tips for morning routine tips? Check them out here!)

How do you join a Twitter Party?

It’s easy! First you will need to be sure you are following your party hosts so you don’t miss anything!

Follow:

@MomsCheckIn


@SmartyHealth

@amandarfaulkner

@SpaceshipsLB

@SweetPennies

Next, click below on the tweet to tell us you are coming!

[Tweet “I can’t wait for the #SmartyRoutines Twitter Party! See you there @SmartyHealth @MomsCheckIn”]

Finally, fill in the RSVP form below with your Twitter information. We will use it to choose the winners for our prizes! On August 31st at 9:00 PM (Eastern Time) hop on Twitter and use the #SmartyRoutines to join in the fun. Be sure to use the hashtag on all of your tweets so they are seen! We will be giving out prizes throughout the hour! Remember you MUST RSVP to be eligible to win!



See you there!

This post has been sponsored by SmartyPants Vitamins.

       

Back To School Routines: Make This Your Best Year Yet!

School is in full swing now which means we are all getting back on a routine. There are only 24 hours in a day, but sometimes, well, most of the time I have about 36 hours worth of things I would like to get done. And it all starts with the morning.

We’ve all had one of those mornings. Where you wake up late, can’t find something, remember something last minute….you know, it’s just off. Being off your morning can really effect the rest of your day. That’s why it’s so important to build a great morning routine. Start your morning off right with a great back to school routine.

school routines

So we asked….

What are your best tips for back to school morning routines?

Jenni-Eaves1-213x300

“Honestly, mornings around here started out pretty rough when school started. Now that we’re 3 weeks in, things are smooth sailing. Setting the coffee pot timer the night before, is the FIRST thing I do! We also have clothes and backpacks laid out the night before. On the weekends, I use gallon sized bags to divy up lunch items for the days of the week. That way, all I have to do is grab the bag and put everything inside Eli’s lunchbox. It only takes a second, vs. 5 extra minutes out of the morning. Another thing I use that really helps us stick to our routine is cellphone timers. I have a timer for everything…and when the timer goes off, we do that task. Wash face and hands, brush teeth, get dressed, eat breakfast (and take our vitamins), grab backpack, say our morning prayer, watch for the bus. Works like a charm! Sounds a little OCD, right?! But hey — we get out the door on time and with less drama, each and every morning!! Plus, Eli thinks it’s fun and he likes to beat his time for each task. He looks at it as sort of a challenge!!”

– Jenni is the mom of one and the author of Sweet Pennies From Heaven. A hearth and homewebsite, Sweet Pennies From Heaven focuses on recipes, crafts and creating a comfortable home. Follow her on Twitter here!

“Mornings are always busy! This year, we have lots of new things to experience: we’re in a new city, a new house and a new school district. Plus, Mike is no longer working outside the home. I feel like we’re starting our school morning routines from scratch. Thankfully, some of our usual habits will continue to serve us well. In the evening, I have Sam help me prep his backpack and clothes for the next day — this makes our morning so much easier! Once we’re up and around, I make his lunch while he eats breakfast. We follow breakfast with vitamins and a good teeth brushing. After a few minutes of reading and cuddles together, it’s time for out the door. I love the fall and I’m excited that back to school season is finally here!”

Stephanie is the mom to Sam and the author of Spaceships and Laser Beams. If you ever need party ideas her site is the place to visit! Specializing in all things boy, it’s full of inspiration!Follow her on Twitter here!

Amanda-626x1024

“Mornings for us are pretty different than they were last year! This year we are homeschooling so we have eliminated a lot of the rush which feels so amazing! I’m all for calm and less stress! One change that I have added to my routine is that I spend a few minutes (usually only 5-7) doing some yoga. It may sound silly or that those few minutes can’t really make a difference, but they do! It gives me a few minutes to just wake up, stretch and get ready. I’ve also stopped the habit of waking up, grabbing my phone and checking my inbox in bed. Before, I was starting my day before I could even fully open my eyes! Then it’s breakfast, vitamins and beginning to get ready. Small, simple changes have helped make our mornings not only calmer but so much more enjoyable. And when you start your mornings off enjoyable it’s much easier to have an awesome day!”

Amanda is the mom to Joshua and owns It’s a Fabulous Life. If you are looking for a one stop place for all things mom, It’s a Fabulous Life is it! Full of recipes, fashion, DIY projects, recipes and parenting articles it’s the place for all of Mom’s favorites to come together! Follow her on Twitter here!

One thing that we all have in common is the fact that vitamins play an important part of our routines. Have you heard of SmartyPants vitamins? They are my absolute favorite! Why?

  1. They are gummy vitamins so they are easy to take. Even as an adult, I would rather eat a gummy vitamin than take a pill!
  2. They are delicious. Like super good!
  3. They use the BEST ingredients. Their vitamins are non-GMO and contain no high-fructose corn syrup. Plus they are gluten free and contain no yeast, wheat, milk, eggs, gluten, salt, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, synthetic colors, artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives.
  4. Even their Omega 3s are sourced from eco-friendly small fish populations.
  5. SmartyPants vitamins pack in your vitamin needs in a yummy gummy. Ok maybe, that one was mentioned twice, but it is important! (Find out more about what goes into their vitamins here!)

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Be sure to join us August 31 at 9:00 PM for a fun Twitter Party to talk all about morning routines and learn more about SmartyPants Vitamins!

We will be giving out lots of prizes including several bottles of SmartyPants vitamins, a Walgreen’s Gift Card and a new Keurig machine – everything you need for your own morning routine! Be sure you are following SmartyPants Vitamins on Twitter!

RSVP here!

This post was sponsored by SmartyPants Vitamins. All thoughts, ideas and opinions are my own.

       

35 Kitchen Gadgets You Shouldn’t Be Without

What’s in your kitchen? I hope it’s one of these 35 kitchen gadgets! They save space, make clean up easier, help in your cooking and sometimes, they are just really cute alternatives to things you have to buy anyways.

35 Kitchen Gadgets You Shouldnt Be Without

These kitchen must haves won’t break the bank either! Most are under $20 (with a lot under $10!) Your kitchen will be the best stocked and ready to go thanks to these helpful items!

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life...Under $10

There are tons of awesome kitchen gadgets that won’t break the bank. I have several of these and plan on ordering the ones I don’t have already. I use them all the time and they come in super handy. Here are some of my favorites, that you probably don’t have, but totally should!

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

This Folding Grater ($9.99) is perfect for people like me! I love gadgets (obviously), but I don’t like clutter. This folds down flat so it makes storing it no problem and it doesn’t take up much room.

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

I own a few sets of these and I absolutely love them. Whether you use them occasionally to help with leftovers or if you are getting into freezer cooking, these hands free bag holders come in crazy handy. They are a bargain too, only $9.99 for a set of two.

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

Another item that I have bought and can tell you personally about it’s amazingness, this Pineapple Corer (only $6.79) makes coring a pineapple only take seconds. Bonus: We’ve had a few luau parties and this not only helped with our fruit dishes, but the hollowed out pineapples made for perfect vases for flowers. You could also fill them back up with cut fruit.

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

I haven’t personally used these, but I did just order them on Amazon. These Silicone Bowls are called Pinch Bowls and you can gently pinch them to make pouring simple and ditch the mess. (Choose from quart size or half cup size!)

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

Confession. I love garlic, but I normally just buy the jars of already minced garlic. But this little garlic chopper is not only under $10, but it’s simple to use and allows you to use fresh garlic (yum) easily.

how hungry are you pasta measurer?

Ok, well, I kind of just thought this was hilarious. These pasta measurers make sure you get the right amount of pasta every time. Portions for kids, women, men and for those times that you are so hungry you could eat a … Horse, T-Rex, or Unicorn!

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

This Clip on Spout is only $9.95 and can attach to pots, pans or bowls. Whether you need to drain or pour it comes in handy, doesn’t take up much room and you will quickly start to wonder what you did without it!

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

Have you heard of Anti Soggy Bowls? They are divided bowls that keep your cereal from getting soggy. Genius right? But they are pretty handy. Chips on one side and dip on the other, fries on the left and ketchup on the right or soup and your crackers. They are also perfect for people that don’t like their food touching. My son wet through a phase that he didn’t like that, so these were perfect. Mac and cheese completely separate from the green beans. #MomWin $8.95

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

Here is another item that has really made things easier at our house! Dip trays! They snap on your plates. Perfect for dips and also sauces. Great for BBQ’s and you know, Wednesday night dinners. Get four of them for only $6.99! Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

We have been trying to be healthier at our house. One of those changes is eating more fish. I use this Citrus Sprayer (only $6.20!) all the time. But not just for fish, I spray it on veggies, a few sprays in my tea, and I would totally be lying if I didn’t admit that I first thought about doing a flashback of spraying lemon juice in my hair this summer. (Please, tell me someone else used to use Sun In back in the day!)

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

This is another one of those things that is just a cute upgrade to something you already have. This Pasta-saurus ($9.95) is a super fun way to serve up your pasta dinner.

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

Yes, yes, yes. Everyone needs two of these. Just clip it to the side of your pot and your spoon rests without making a drippy mess all over your stove. I’m all for anything to simplify clean up! Get the Pot Clip for only $8.95.

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

This is honestly one of my favorites! This flat whisk allows you to do your thing, turn the handle and it folds flat. Why is that amazing? Because it makes getting it ALL out of the bowl super easy. Not only that, but cleaning is simple. I always hated cleaning the whisks – food gets inside the middle and it’s hard to get, but not anymore. And finally for storage – it takes up less space! Oh, and yes, it’s under $10!

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

No, they aren’t staplers. These are bag re-sealers! For $15.99 you get a set of 2 (so only $8 each!) and they quickly will pay for themselves. Reseal bags of cereal, chips, or snacks in no time.

Kitchen Gadgets You Need In Your Life Under $10

These Grill Clips are a must have for grill masters! You get a set of 4 for $10 to help you make the perfect grilled veggies.

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

Ready for some more awesome items that you shouldn’t be without? Here are some that are under $20!

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

This little gadget ($11.95) comes in super handy during baking. Easily separate the egg yolks and egg whites for recipes. Or if you are wanting to eat a healthier breakfast, scramble up the egg whites.

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

I love a good cup of tea. Recently I started switching to dried tea leaves from tea bags. It is fresh and makes me able to customize my blends. While looking for a tea infuser, I came across this adorable Whale Tea Infuser for just $11.19. Not only is it super practical and easy to use (the water spout never gets hot!) but it’s adorable.

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

Have you seen those viral videos on Facebook where they make incredible pancakes in the shapes of famous characters, people, etc? This is how! With a Pancake Pen – $10.95 – you can create a fun breakfast. I haven’t graduated to pancake art, but my son thinks it’s pretty awesome for pancakes that spell out his name.

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

This Double Dish is genius. Perfect for snacking, the empty bowl on the bottom is ideal for discarding shells, seeds or pits of your favorite snack. For $15.15, it’s just what you need for binge watching on the couch with your snacks.

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

Speaking of genius products, this Rinse and Strain Bowl – $14.69 – is one of those things that make you say, “Why didn’t I think of that?” Quick and easy….music to my ears!

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

Ok, so I haven’t tried this yet, but I ordered it today. However, I’m totally late in the spiralizing game – this thing has been getting major buzz and awesome reviews. The Vegetable Spiralizer is only $15.84 and comes with everything you need to get started creating a healthier version of pasta or some super awesome veggie side dishes. A bonus recipe book is included.

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

In my dreams, I have a double oven. But meanwhile, I have an Oven Rack (only $17.49) that helps me to make the most out of space that I do have! Seriously a game changer for parties and holiday cooking!

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

I’m not entirely sure how it happened, but somehow I ended up with a full knife block on the counter and a drawer full of loose knives. This Knife Organizer was a cheap (just $13.53) way to organize my drawer. Not to mention it’s a lot safer than fishing around a drawer with them just loose!

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

These Chip/Cracker Holders are crazy handy to have in your pantry. Keep your food fresh longer. They will quickly pay for themselves!

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

I don’t use my flour and sugar that often, so I like to keep them in a Flour Keeper . For $16.78, I know it stays fresh and ready to use. The measuring level on the lid makes things easy getting the perfect cup full.

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $20

I got this cutting board before we moved into our current house. I was seriously slacking counter space, so the fact that this fit over the sink made it a great space saver. But now, we have plenty of counter space, but the built in strainer is so handy that I don’t think I can ever get rid of it! Over the sink cutting board – $19.99

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $50

Can you believe how many awesome things we have found so far? We are almost done with our list, but here are a few under $50 that you totally need.

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $50

This would be a great gift – for yourself or someone else! It’s great for small kitchens or for people who just love organized kitchens! Get the Compact Food Prep Set for $34.27.

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $50

Why dirty a second dish if you don’t need to? This lid eliminates the need to dirty a second one. It makes it super simple to drain and strain. I have this pot and use it all the time. The Pasta Pot was totally worth the $29.99!

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $50

This little Marinade Infuser and meat tenderizer is amazing. You won’t believe the difference that this $34.98 gadget makes as opposed to just marinating in a plastic bag. But don’t just take my word for it, this has great reviews!

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $50

Are you a hostess? Then you need this Party Tray with Ice for your next soiree! For only $27.95, you have a great serving dish with built in ice chamber to keep your dishes ready for guests to much on.

1 handle 5 tools - 35 Kitchen Gadgets You Are Missing Out On

This is brilliant. The Click N Cook is one handle that simply ‘clicks’ off and attaches to one of 5 different attachments. Buying the set makes each kitchen necessity cost less than $10 each!

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $50

This Cutlery cleaning attaches to your sink and makes cleaning your silverware a breeze. Just dip your spoon, fork, etc inside and everything easily scrubs off. If you hand wash your dishes or use a dishwasher, this makes sure you get super clean dishes the simple way!

Kitchen Gadgets Every Kitchen Needs...Under $50

I NEED this!! I have a serious ice cream love and this lets you make your own soft serve from fruit! How awesome is that? Fruit Soft Serve Maker – $41.27

Only 2 kitchen gadgets left! These two are both under $125 and worth every penny!

Kitchen Gadgets You Need

I bought this Food Saver ($79.99) a while ago and I LOVE it. It is worth every penny and so much more. Actually, it saves us money! I can make meals ahead of time, use it to package up our Zaycon orders (I save SO much money from ordering our meats from them!) and re-seal our open food. One tip is to use them for packing for trips! I have made ‘pouches’ for bringing dog food with us (SO much easier for car rides to have ‘single serve’ packs made up) and even vacuum sealed my necklaces to keep the chains from tangling.

Kitchen Gadgets You Need

I haven’t tried this…yet. Have you seen it before? It’s an Air Fryer – $109.95 – and makes your favorite fried foods a bit healthier. You can fry meat and veggies in here and it uses air to circulate and ‘fry’ instead of the traditional oil. I will be getting one ASAP! If you have one I would love to hear what you think of it!

35 Kitchen Gadgets You Shouldnt Be Without

Don’t forget to pin!

This post contains affiliate links.

       

Easy Tips For Your Fittest 2015

I have been making the same ‘get healthy’ resolution for probably the past 10 years. How horrible is that? But 2016 is my year to make some progress! I’m not getting any younger (I know, it’s sad right?) and my body doesn’t react to things the way it did when I was 20. (I know, that is a tearjerker for sure!)

So I’ve joined a gym, dusted off my tennis shoes, ordered another pair of tennis shoes when our dogs ate my first pair, broke out the protein shakes and have been trying to make better choices. It’s not always fun, but it’s getting easier. And more importantly, the impact is 150% worth it!

Easy Fitness Ideas for Busy Moms

Want some easy ideas?

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“I’ve decided that 2016 is going to be THE year that I get myself in better shape. I’ve been eating healthier and I find that instead of setting big goals for weight loss, I set smaller goals. They’re easier to reach, obviously, and honestly…..it’s a marathon, not a sprint. I’ll get where I need to be, eventually! Once the kiddo is on the bus, I use my 7 minute workout app on my phone. It’s free to use, and there are several 7 minute workout apps you can choose from. Just search Google Play or the Apple App store. I do these on my super busy days. On the days that I have more time, I’ll do Zumba or hop on the treadmill for 30+ minutes. It’s all about carving out just a little time each day!!

– Jenni is the mom of one and the author of Sweet Pennies From Heaven. A hearth and home website, Sweet Pennies From Heaven focuses on recipes, crafts and creating a comfortable home. Follow her on Twitter here!

“Increase your water intake each day – it’s amazing how much better I feel when I’m properly hydrated. I aim for at least eight glasses a day. I have also increased my rest each night. I feel my best with 7-8 hours of sleep. It sets the tone for each day for me. I also started using portion sized containers to help me eat the right amount of each food group. In the morning, I spend a few minutes on our elliptical machine which helps me jump start my calorie burn for the day. I’ve also started looking for healthier ways to make some of our family’s favorite recipes. Little changes aren’t hard to implement and add up to a big change!

Stephanie is the mom to Sam and the author of Spaceships and Laser Beams. If you ever need party ideas her site is the place to visit! Specializing in all things boy, it’s full of inspiration! Follow her on Twitter here!

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My tip is to get a step counter. It has really helped me keep myself accountable and to stay competitive. I find myself even roaming in my hallway and up and down our stairs if I’m short on steps! Also, try to do things together that are just more active. We’ve been playing a lot of laser tag this winter – it’s a great way to have fun and run around! We also like to do things like bowling, the indoor trampoline or bounce houses (talk about a workout! WHEW!) or just to the indoor pool at the YMCA.

Amanda is the mom to Joshua and owns It’s a Fabulous Life. If you are looking for a one stop place for all things mom, It’s a Fabulous Life is it! Full of recipes, fashion, DIY projects, recipes and parenting articles it’s the place for all of Mom’s favorites to come together! Follow her on Twitter here!

febreze

Whether you are counting steps, jogging on the treadmill or being a total rock star at Crossfit getting fit and healthy is on the minds of a LOT of moms. But the smell of it doesn’t have to be on your mind! Luckily there is this magic potion called Febreze In-Wash Odor Eliminator. Just a touch of this to my laundry and all of the toughest smells disappear. Even from my 13 year old’s PE uniform that comes home just once a week! (Well, it’s supposed to come home once a week anyways….)

But not just sweat smells. Febreze In-Wash takes out smells like mildew, smoke, pet odors and more! It’s seriously awesome. And if you don’t believe me you can check out the reviews from more than 500 people here. 5 stars! 500 people! It’s the real deal! (Pssst! You can also grab a $2 off coupon!)

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You’re welcome to come and party with us next Thursday, Feb. 4th from 1-2pm EST. During our #FitWithFebrezeInWash Twitter party, we’ll be chatting about fitness and keeping our workout clothes smelling fresh plus we’ll have 4 awesome prizes including Febreze In-Wash Fitness prize packs AND Walmart gift cards! Make sure to RSVP HERE to be eligible to win!

This post was sponsored by Febreze In-Wash Odor Eliminator. All thoughts and opinions are my own.