Women in the Scriptures. The Beginning of a Profound Journey.

In my heart I have felt a stirring. I have been bothered by the small, seemingly insignificant, mention of women in the scriptures. In my heart I know there is more than what I currently "see". I know that in some ways I am being led astray by the adversary by the sometimes bitter thoughts and feelings that enter my heart. Knowing that this is not a sign from God, but the pure opposite, I have been searching deeper. I realized that I must work harder; that the adversary is working incredibly hard on me to prove that, as a woman, I am nothing. I know by the spirit this is NOT true, and yet I have allowed the adversary to beguile me, to stir my heart to anger, frustration, and rebellion. I don't have anything to prove, but I do have a desire to know my personal significance to my Father in Heaven. Who am I? What is my purpose? What is my mission here upon the earth as a woman, mother, daughter, and wife?

I have no desire for more leadership, to have the priesthood, or to have worldly recognition or praise. I just want to know what I personally mean to the Lord, perhaps learn to embrace and love my role as a woman. I need a personal witness and testimony of my mission and my role. What does it mean to be a woman?

By no coincidence I have stumbled upon a blog that has touched my heart (www.womeninthescriptures.com). It has begun to enlighten my mind of what I have been searching for, and perhaps what I can share by personal, honest, heartfelt testimony. I do not know what is ahead, or why I am being led in this direction, but I know it is the way I must go to calm my troubled heart.

My challenge that I am accepting for the next year is to find all references to women in the scriptures. Any mention of womb, breast, or anything relating to the functioning of a woman's body, plus any names unknown or known I wish to study and ponder to find what women mean to God.

I hope through this experience I can gain insight, truth, and peace in my life. I want to be able to give a more sincere effort to my life as a mother and wife. Here is to the beginning of a profound journey.

God Answers Our Prayers

I felt like writing. Everyone is in bed, the house is silent and I am alone. I relish these moments. I'm not even sure what to talk about. My days are pretty mundane to be completely honest. I gave up a lot of things. No more business, no more Facebook...okay maybe not a lot of things, but two very big things that took over my thoughts and my life.

I used to go to seminars to understand the ins and outs of creating a thriving business. Facebook was a big part of that, it seems to be where everyone is, and when you're a stay-at-home Mom social hour revolves around kids, and church. So that meant that Facebook was where the action was. If I wanted to find people I socialized there. I was obsessed! My business was an excuse to get on there and waste a lot of time. And my excuse seemed legit too. I convinced myself it was all okay. I was still getting everything done that needed to be, right?

It was actually at one of these seminars that the spirit spoke a powerful message to me...I need you to focus on being a Mother. Stop your business, and just be present. I felt so warm, and so loved by that simple message so I knew it was from Heavenly Father. I was a little confused at the message though. I had spent so much time trying to make this business work, and now I was to let it all go...so I did. It was actually a relief. I was so relieved to be able to take all the pressure off and just BE. Then came the second message Get off Facebook. That one had me asking all kinds of questions and justifying all the reasons why I needed to be on there, but the message was clear Get off Facebook. I will show you how it will bless your life. So I did. And I haven't looked back since.

Little did I know the reasons would become crystal clear why I received those two simple, but powerful messages, BUT an entire year later. It was during that period of time that I did some spiritual upgrading. I had been reading in the scriptures about powerful messages given to prophets, apostles, and even sinners, and I wondered how I could become one of those lucky people. I had also been reading a book my Mom gave me about a man who had received incredible visions. I knew I had received inspiration, and insight so I know God speaks to His children because He's spoken to me. But He can only speak to us to the amount that we prepare for. So I was seeking, studying, praying harder than I ever have. It was during this time that I had some incredibly powerful and spiritual experiences that I continue to look upon with wonder. "Experiment on my words," is so true. I am a witness of it.

During this time of being spiritually uplifted, I had no idea that Heavenly Father was preparing me for some difficult things ahead. I went from being on top of the world, to wondering why I felt like I was scrambling to fill my spiritual cup. I felt distance from Him that I couldn't explain. Instead of having strong, meaningful prayers that left me feeling enlightened and uplifted, they became empty, slow, and hard to come by. It seemed He was giving me just enough to thirst for more. When Heavenly Father had something to share with me I would feel this swelling in my heart. It would start to beat faster and I would have to really search for what He wanted to tell me. Two very distinct answers came with all of this searching of conference talks, scriptures, praying,...repeat.

One such answer came as inspiration to have an informal Family Home Evening with my children one Monday. I felt a powerful impression that I needed to share some scriptures that I had been reading that's all, no music or conducting, just those scriptures. This one significant moment changed the course of the next several months and probably the rest of our lives. I felt completely inadequate to face what came from that evening. I was left reeling. I felt weaker than I have ever felt. I leaned on my Savior in only small moments because I felt so lost. I wasn't sure how to tap into the Atonement, or if this was worthy of it. I felt like I had failed in some way as a Mother.

The next answer came in a way that made me incredibly uncomfortable. Again, I felt the swelling in my heart, but I couldn't figure out what He was trying to tell me. It stayed with me all day. We happened to be at my Mom's house that evening and I was explaining what was happening, how I was feeling. I suddenly had a recollection of this feeling I was getting in my house so I started to explain it to my mom. As I was sharing I felt the spirit confirm that what I was sharing with my mom was exactly what Heavenly Father was helping me see. My Mom gave me some advice. That evening I spoke to Kelcey, and He had the same impression my mom did without me explaining what she had said.

I want to bare my testimony that I know God lives. I know He is aware of our needs and our lives. He wants us to have joy. He wants to share His mysteries, but we must be ever vigilant in following His commandments, in studying the scriptures, and in having meaningful prayer if we want to receive such sacred things. I know that with every good thing there is it's opposite. We need the Atonement to overcome temptations, weaknesses, and to overcome the adversary. It is impossible to do it alone.

Looking back I can see why Heavenly Father has done things the way He has. Though I don't want to share the very personal details of what has gone on these last several months, I do want to say that without My Heavenly Father I would not have been blessed to have recognized the things that needed to change in my home. In order to truly be the Mother God wants me to be I accept His grace, His love, and yes, even His trials because they are ultimately for my good.

By Small and Simple

I'm averaging about a once or twice a year post. Not great...never-the-less, life happens and I've found the more we roll with it willingly the happier we are.

Have you noticed how looking back years seem like minutes? Every year I start out thinking how I want to change something dramatically. I want to write a book, become insanely fit, be patient, more loving, more compassionate, play more, read more, be closer to God, be more organized, manage my money, eat out less, etc., etc. My list is literally endless. There are a bazillion things I want to accomplish and I want them NOW! And every year seems like THE year for it to happen. However, I easily lose sight of the prize. Not because I don't want it, but because it's too much all at once. The scripture is true, "By small and simple things, great things shall come to pass." For some reason I have in my head By setting ridiculously high expectations and goals and taking huge, giant steps great things come to pass. It really is a silly notion, but for whatever reason I think I can do it. And then when I inevitably fail I blame it on my weaknesses, my easily broken will, my inferiority to anyone and everyone else who seems to have it all together. The truth is, I can have any of those things. I just have to take small, simple steps. So how do you decide what is small, which one to tackle, or what makes it simple? The simple thing is, I just pray. I pray for guidance. I pray for comfort. I pray that I can be who God sees me as. I pray that I can get through the day. I pray that I can feel like I'm doing something that matters. I just pray...

From the moment I had my first child I've been frustrated. Mostly because I have no idea what I'm doing. And every child after I get more confused. They get older and new problems and concerns emerge. How in the world does one figure it all out? I've been on my knees from day one, praying that somehow, someway, Heavenly Father could help me. I pray that I don't screw up horribly. I wonder and ask why He inspires me to have more. I feel inadequate, and I don't trust my ability. After every child I plead with God to let this be the last one. It's okay to just have one...okay two...well definitely just three...four, REALLY are you sure??!...NO WAY, NOT five??! and yes...even six. What does God see in me that I do not see? I'm not patient enough, strong enough, smart enough, loving enough. I don't have what it takes. I can't handle this...what about my goals, my dreams, my ambitions..... and then the fear quiets down as I kneel. And I feel Heavenly Father wrap the warmth of His spirit around me. I feel Him look into my soul and say..."I love you, I believe in you, I trust you, you are exactly what I need for these children, you are enough, and you don't have to do this alone because I am with you." And then I feel the burden lift, and that simple prayer with all my fears jumbled in a mess, God sees through it, and answers me EXACTLY as I need. Then I feel that I can do it again, because He walks beside me. He is in the details of my life. When I open my eyes I can see Him through it all. He's in it all. That is how we decide what to tackle, or what makes it simple. God is what makes my life. IF I let Him. All the other stuff is just stuff because it is God who sees through it and He knows me. He knows ME. He knows Lyenna, what troubles her, what fills her soul, what makes her laugh, cry, sing, dance, scream. He knows and that's all I need. HE is all I need.

Of Infinite Worth

I now have a 1 week old little girl. She is beautiful, and perfect, and sweet, and I could not be more thrilled to have the opportunity and honor to raise her. As she is my 5th child, and my last, I am savoring every precious moment. She is already growing, and I don't want to miss or take for granted one moment. She brought me to tears as I talked with her in the quiet of our home. My other children were in bed, and Kelcey was not home yet. She focused directly on me, not the typical restlessness of a newborn, but as if she were intently listening to my every word. I felt the spirit warm my heart as I could feel her love radiate into my spirit. There was gratitude, and unconditional love in that precious moment. So profound was my experience, I couldn't help but shed tears because of the joy, peace, and comfort that swelled my heart. Upon reflection I am reminded of how beautiful that moment was. It happened again as I was watching the funeral services of our prophet President Thomas S. Monson's wife yesterday. One of his great grandchildren sang "My Heavenly Father Loves Me." My precious little girl was rooting and trying to eat her hands prior to the song. As soon as the song began, she went completely still, turned her head towards the music, and listened. Again the spirit filled my heart. My baby girl is remarkable, sent here to teach me a great deal. One being to savor every moment, take time to listen, and love unconditionally. She is only one week and I feel her influence. I wish I had more moments like that. I wish they lasted longer, or that the distractions of life would come less often. The call of the "world" is enticing. Always beckoning me about what I "need" what I "deserve" what I should "want." It plays a toll on my heart much to often. The negative voices in my head get louder and drown out the spirit, and take away my focus. I can feel myself being pulled towards things that aren't important. And I become extremely hard on myself trying to live up to impossible expectations. I quote an article from LDS.org "Sweet serenity is found in fervent prayer. Then, we forget ourselves and remember the reaching hands of the Savior, who said, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matt. 11:28.) As our burdens are shared with Him, they do become lighter. Feelings of worth come when a woman follows the example of the Master. Her sense of infinite worth comes from her own Christlike yearning to reach out with love, as He does." http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1989/10/woman-of-infinite-worth?lang=eng It is the perfect answer isn't it?? We all labour and are heavy laden. No matter what the issue, BIG or small, our Savior can give us rest. I would like to rest from my burdens. I would like to stop worrying. I don't mean to say to stop trying, but to put my efforts towards things that are of more infinite worth. I think the more I focus on the Savior, the less I will worry, and the more naturally things will come to me, or perhaps more inspiration on how to make things better will come to me. My focus just needs to change. Then perhaps I will become more like my sweet baby girl, and have influence the way she has already influenced me.

Day 1 of Blogging...AGAIN

I'm doing this for me this time around. I feel that I've gone through several transformations. I've stretched, grown, and gotten really uncomfortable. Most of it has been because I've had to. I've let go of a lot of things that fill my life with "stuff" and it's "stuff" I really don't need. I've left the Facebook world, cut off Instagram, in fact Pinterest may be on it's way out as well. I am refocusing my life on things that matter. I want to blog because I love to write and I need a format that will allow me to get my thoughts out uncensored. Maybe it will touch you, make you angry, cry, laugh, whatever...but I want my voice out there. Some days I feel I've got it, and other days not so much, but either way you'll probably hear about it. So a new chapter is ready to commence...stay tuned.

Coming through to the other side. I never see it til I finally step through.

One of the biggest influences in my life is Chalene Johnson. I guess I just see myself in her, or something about her makes me want to be better than I am. Whatever it is, there are a lot of things that I've learned lately that I'd like to share.

1. Be who YOU are!- I've never thought of myself as someone trying to be someone else, but this took on a new meaning for me. I went through this period of Woe-is-Me, and I'm not saying it won't happen again, but recently I've changed my tune. I realized that the only way I can truly be happy is by just being myself. I say silly things, I get too excited, I dream of things that are bigger than me, but that I have a FULL intention of achieving, I am ambitious, goal driven, competitive, and kind of a motor mouth, BUT I don't want to change any that! When I talk to people I genuinely want to get to know them. I love to have fun, and sure, I have a gazillion weaknesses, but those are my quirks, and for today I embrace them. I admire LOTS of people, but I don't want to BE them, I want to LEARN from them. So I am truly happy to be myself, because I don't know how to be anyone else.
2. YOU only live once!- Life is so FUN!!! Even when it totally stinks...although I HATE when it stinks, but when that part ends I've come out the other side feeling like a different, better person. Dance because you feel like it, laugh because it feels good, play because it's fun, be in the moment because that's where JOY, PEACE, and CONTENTMENT reside. Don't wait for tomorrow, do it NOW and be proud of it!
3. HAVE a diet, but don't BE ON a diet!- I have thrown away ALL my fitness magazines. I don't want to be, or look like anyone else. My stretch marks are my trophy, my fitness is my peace. I do what I love to do! I play sports, right now it's soccer, and volleyball, I run around with my kids, I teach Turbo Kick, I workout at home with bands, weights, or my own body weight, I clean the house, I go for walks, I chase Teagen up an down the stairs, etc. I am ACTIVE because I WANT to be, not because someone told me I should. I drink Shakeology because it tastes good, it's soooooo Good for me, and I don't have to think about it. I have a treat EVERY NIGHT be it ice cream, a doughnut, buttered popcorn, or a handful of chocolate. I LOVE those things and I WILL have them. I stopped counting, analyzing, configuring, and obsessing about what I eat. I eat healthy 80% of the time, but the other 20% I eat whatever I want. Food is pleasure, and fun, and delicious, and I refuse to live in a bubble of such and such calories. I am OVER IT! And it has paid off. I feel HAPPY, SATISFIED, and my ENERGY is through the roof! I appreciate food for what it does for me. Right now it allows me to FLY and I love this feeling of clarity....
4. Find YOUR spirit!- This could mean a lot of things, but for me it is my relationship with God, whom I lovingly refer to as Heavenly Father. I've begun to be more obedient to His teachings. I've taken things for granted and it left me weak. As I've followed His commandments I have felt His hand in my life, in ALL things. I have been lead, course corrected, chastised, and completely loved. I open my scriptures now because I don't want to miss a thing. I want to understand the mysteries of God! I want to be like Him. I want more compassion, love, sincerity, and charity. If I do not read His words, or learn His ways I can NEVER achieve greatness. It is impossible to do it on my own. I may be a child of God, but I am no where near His perfection. I can only strive for it, and I can only get closer by learning and understanding Him. I have felt Him walk beside me, hold my hand, embrace me, and love me because He knows me. He has brought people into my life that have blessed my life. They have rekindled my belief in things that seem impossible. They have pushed me when I need pushing, and stood beside me when I felt like not moving. How grateful I am for His influence!
5. Write!- This one comes from experience, not necessarily from Chalene. The written word has power. It puts things in perspective for me. It allows me to go back and reflect. Writing frees my mind calming my fast and furious thoughts just like physical exercise. It is one of my outlets, and I love doing it.

 I feel content today, and I am so grateful for it! It seems like a rare thing sometimes. To be great we must look to those who are great! Do the exact opposite of what  98% of the world does. Be interested in other people, smile more, have a conversation where you just listen, slow down. I have a whole list of new things to learn and practice, but practice is where new habits are formed. Thanks for reading, and allowing me to share a little bit of myself.

Failure VS Course Correction

I have decided to finally find my way back to my blog. No agendas just pure passion for life, fitness, and becoming the best me. As I reflect back on the past year I have learned a lot. I had this vision of what my life would be and look like and I realize there is a different plan. I wanted to create this amazing career, believing that abundance meant money, and temporal well-being, and if it was going to happen I had to be the one to get it. I had to create it all by myself. It's just not true. Nothing is all by myself. Why I have this notion that is has to be is silly!

I've talked about balance before, but what I've come to understand is that balance is created with a LARGE amount of faith, prayer, and scripture study. Relying on Heavenly Father is #1 and just because the picture in my head doesn't match up to reality doesn't mean I failed, it just means my course was corrected.

I am so excited about this year! I don't have resolutions, but I do have goals, and this year they're aligned with my priorities. So 2012...BRING IT!!!

A Surprisingly Good Day

I don't know why I get so restless when I'm pregnant, but I can't seem to sit still for more than a few minutes at a time, or focus for that matter. Kelcey took the kids fishing, but I opted out, it's not my favorite thing in the world. He says I deceived him when we were dating because I used to ALWAYS go with him. For the record it doesn't mean I liked fishing, it was him I was after...anyway, what was I saying? Oh that's right, I'm extremely restless. I decided while everyone was gone I would just go do whatever came to mind. Without dragging kids around this is unheard of, so I wanted to take advantage. I thought I could get some good meditation in, maybe read some inspirational books, possibly walk around the temple, or window shop. So I headed to Barnes and Noble. I could not sit still, or get comfortable, or relax, or even comprehend what I was reading...grrr. Why is it when I have free time the things I usually love to do become, I don't know, not as appealing? So needless to say I left. I then thought I would go catch a movie, but right now there is nothing I have a desire to see, at least not without Kelcey. So then I had to go get all practical and run some errands. All those who wanted Shakeology samples they are finally on their way...HURRAY! I get so distracted sometimes...sorry. Where was I?

Oh ya, so I did get me a movie from Redbox, but I folded laundry while I watched it. The movie was long and boring...I'm on a real bad streak with movies right now. And finally the family returned hungry and wanting my attention...sigh.

I think it's all kind of funny actually. I realized as I was doing things alone that the kids really do make my life more exciting. They definitely keep my energy focused, or at least keep me distracted enough that I don't notice when I'm restless. And honestly, they are my focus. I probably could have been more productive today, or gotten more things done with my business, but my head just wasn't in it. Have you ever had a time when you didn't really know what you wanted when you had the chance to get it? That was me today... until this moment. I'm writing this and my kids are under my feet, being silly, giggling, and asking a million questions. So what I know I want at the moment is this, my family, my kids laughing, needing my attention... and even my husband asking what's for dinner? Lol...it's been a good day.

Exercise, Food, and Nesting

I am in month 6 and it is cruising! I love the 2nd trimester. I'm not huge, I feel movement, I still sleep comfortably, and only occasionally need to get up to pee. And then there's the surge of energy. My workouts are a little harder to do, but not much. It's mostly the belly that gets in the way and makes some of the moves a little difficult, but I feel FANTASTIC! I still drink my Shakeology every day, and I eat pretty clean, with an occasional indulgence;) Honestly nothing sounds better than a big salad, or a huge bowl of fruit. Also is it just me, or are hamburgers just DELICIOUS, stacked with tons of lettuce, tomato, onion, and a pickle, with a side of home-baked sweet potato fries, and fresh sliced watermelon? YUUUUMMMM! It's on our menu at least once a week. And then there's the BBQ'd chicken. Kelcey cooked a ton of it the other day. We portioned it and threw it in the freezer. We since have used it for fajitas, grilled chicken salad, chicken quesadillas, etc. It makes dinner prep less than a half hour. So good too! We make our own Cafe Rio salads. We run there and grab 2 of the house dressings and then stack the vegies. The kids gobble it up:) I'm happy cuz they get good nutrition, they're satisfied, and it tastes WONDERFUL. It's a great trick. Eating healthy doesn't need to be boring people. Believe me...I love food, and who wants to eat bland boring crap? Add flavor using ingredients like fresh herbs, which we have planted in herb boxes on our deck;), garden tomatoes, lemon, vinegar, a little BBQ sauce goes a long way. You can use ranch, but just go easy on the the portion. For example, 2 Tbs. of ranch goes a long way if you toss it with a salad. I don't know about you, but I like to taste my vegies. Go for the reduced fat kind cuz it tastes the same. The fat free is disgusting, but that's just my opinion. There's lots of tricks that make food taste awesome, but also cut the fat and calories. Just experiment. Most of the time I take recipes that were part of our old diet, and just see where I can tweak it to make it more healthy. It never tastes any different either, just has less fat, calories, and preservatives. I use fresh stuff instead of canned, or buy freezer vegies. They sometimes have more nutrients than fresh vegies at the store because they freeze dry them at their peak, which means they hold in the nutrients as if they were picked from your garden. Plus, they're fast, and make meal prep easy. When they go on sale I stock up. The other day they were on sale for 58 cents a bag at Ream's. That is a great deal, add a coupon, and you can almost get them free:). Anyway...

Another perk of the 2nd trimester...nesting! I've got it bad this time around. Almost every closet has been cleaned out, which is saying a lot. The clutter had me going out of my mind. Not to mention the kids need to be rotated so we had to figure out how to make the small space work. Kody slept on a big boy bed, and did great. I like to start them early so they don't feel like they're being replaced once the baby comes. Both the kids rooms look awesome. I'm still working on Kody and Tanner's, but I'm pleased with the results so far. Keira and the baby will share. She's got a princess bed, a small pink dresser, and a princess lamp. The other side of the room will be all boy...baseball everything. I plan on painting some baseball pics and have them framed. The dresser has moved into the closet, and we took down the sliding closet doors and will put up a curtain instead. It has to be generic, but match both sides of the room. I'm still working on that. I'm just so grateful everything has a place. For a while nothing was organized and was just tossed in the closets all willy nilly. It's hard working with small spaces, but we've worked it out. When I'm done I'll post some pics.

Just Bouncing Around Some Thoughts

Life is busy to say the least. I am steadily getting bigger, and have noticed that trudging up the stairs has me winded. You would think I hadn't exercised for quite some time, but if you know me, you know that is not even close to the truth. It is, however, very frustrating. I hate feeling weak at any capacity. I am not okay with this, but I don't think I have a choice in the matter. I think it only gets worse? That shouldn't even be a question since this is baby #4, but every pregnancy has me wondering, is this normal, is that normal, etc.?

My central air is WONDERFUL! I am sooo glad we did it. Every time I walk in the house and feel the non-moistness, but cooling refreshment I am so happy. Definitely a good call on our part:) With that said, though, my house is feeling smaller and smaller. With 3 boys and 1 girl who will share what rooms? I feel like the clutter will overtake me at any moment. I am storing baby clothes, and toddler clothes (for both boys and girls), and toys, and bedding, coats, and shoes, and miscellaneous items I feel like I should keep, but that we never touch! Not to mention when I decide to take on a project, and throw stuff out, I move in slow motion. And then I feel I need a break after 30 minutes, and then I never get back to it.

I am a hopeless case I'm afraid. Perhaps it is adult A.D.D. In any case I feel like I can't focus on any one thing for too long. Kelcey says, "take one thing to focus on and become a master of it." That is very practical and good advice, but when you have more than one thing calling for your attention, how does one focus long enough to become a master? I'm not so sure I have what it takes. I love the idea of a new adventure or idea. I get excited about ALL the things I could do, then when I get involved I suddenly realize it takes a whole lot more effort than I had anticipated in my mind. And then once again my focus is dragged elsewhere...it's an endless cycle. So this whole "mastery" thing has me stumped. I wonder how people do it honestly.

Take my husband for example. He is good at anything he does, and is definitely not afraid of hard work. He could work all day, be exhausted, and because I asked him to mow the lawn, he'll do it! No complaining. He'll give me a wink and off he goes. Right now he's working on finishing his Master's Degree. The man has a mind that can focus on one thing get her done, and then move on to the next, get that done, and the next, and so on, and he does it superbly well I might add. He's a straight A student. What is up with that?! How do you have a mind like that? I'd like one:)

We were talking about super powers the other day when Jim, my brother, and his family came up for Memorial Day weekend. Jim asked me if there was one thing in sports that I could be phenomenal at, I would keep all other abilities I had, but I could pick one thing that would be my super power talent in sports, what would it be? Pretty loaded question, so I picked jumping. I would be able to jump high, long, whatever. I asked Kelcey, my husband, that same question because he wasn't there when we talked about this. Without missing a step he says, his mental game. The reason? Success in athletics is 10% ability, 90% mental. He is sooo dead on too! I was suddenly wishing I had said that. If my mental game were perfect everything else would fall into place. And that is why he's a coach. A GREAT one I might add. If only those kids realized what they had....they have no idea...It's also why he'll be a GREAT administrator too.

Anyway, I didn't mean for this to turn into an Ode To My Husband, but when I find a quality that is admirable I want to find out how to get it. How do I perfect my mental game? All super powers aside, I would just like a smidgin of mental toughness, just so I can focus longer than a kindergartener. I know you're all thinking it's pregnancy, but it's something I struggle with pregnant or no pregnant. Pregnancy just has a tendency to magnify what's already a challenge in my life.

I'm not really sure why my thoughts went in that direction, but there you go. Oi...maybe I share too much, and maybe not, but you get whatcha get when it comes to me. Random, random, random.

I Didn't See That Coming!

Things have been a little...different. I went to get my ultrasound on May 14 to find out the news of boy or girl. Now when I say I was convinced it was a girl... I'm talkin' there was no other way around it. It had to be a girl for reasons I have explained to a number of people that I won't go into here:)...Anyway, the news spun me around a little. "It couldn't possibly be a boy! There must be some mistake. Nope I definitely know that boy part, there is no way around it. It's a boy." Now as a side note, I LOVE boys! They aren't as emotional, a little rough and tumble, but so am I so it's no big deal, rough and tumble I mean; being emotional just comes with being a woman so don't judge me:) Just having a girl meant I could be done, which belongs to a story that once again will not be addressed here...sheesh.

Okay so I admit I cried, and started feeling sorry for myself. Will I ever be done having children? What if I have to have 20! My life won't be mine FOREVER! I'm never gonna be done raising children, etc., etc. Just pathetic really. So as I'm crying I suddenly just stop mid-sob...no joke. And I thought you know what, I'm okay. And that was that. So maybe I'll have 5 kids, or whatever. It just goes to show you I'm not the one in charge. And it took me a while to realize I was actually okay with that. That sounds funny, but it's the truth. And then I took a me moment that lasted about a week, to just be still for a while, and take a good look at what was around me. I didn't actually have a conscious thought I'm going to take a week to ponder and be still. It just sort of happened. But this has been the BEST week I've had in a very long time. It's like I finally realized that being a mom is the best thing I've done. Aside from marrying my husband of course. It's challenging, competitive, fun, boring, exhausting, enlivening, peaceful, comfortable, uncomfortable, loud, quiet, busy, silly, crazy, joyful, painful...I bet you could throw any word in there and it could fit. All of these things have brought me joy in some way. I look around and my house is a mess...cluttered. The dishes and laundry are never done. My bed isn't made. The house is lucky to be vacuumed once a month, or mopped for that matter. We only have one bathroom to share with 5 people. Toys are ALWAYS on the floor. The kids have to share a room and because of that they NEVER go to bed on time. The carpet needs to be shampooed desperately. I have a GIANT coffee stain on my carpet, and no I don't drink coffee people. It was a home remedy to get throw-up smell out gone terribly, terribly wrong. That's a story for another time. I could go on and on because the "oh-look-how-bad-I-have-it" list never ends.

So in my week of taking a look I realized my mind is always racing. I put undo stress on myself by the minute. I want to be this or that. And I've gotta be here and be this kind of person by this time. Or I'm failing! I can't, I can't, I can't whatever. It gets exhausting and it sends my emotions on a roller coaster. "Stay out of her way, cuz you never know what mood she'll be in." It's nuts. I realized I am so worried about being wrong about everything. What will "they" think? Will I be liked? Am I doing this right? Do I say too much? Am I too loud, or disruptive, or irreverent, or opinionated, or, or, or, or? It's a lot, and for whatever reason discovering that it was a boy calmed me down considerably. It gave me a reason to be still, and have faith in who I am and my purpose. Why is that? Hmmm

Life's a funny thing. A little unpredictable...

I don't know.

I'm having a boy. And I'm doing a little dance. And I know I'll be fine, even when I'm not. And I smile at my mess, at my kids, and at myself. I'm having a boy, and I'm thrilled:)

California Summit

This is us all done up for the awesome dinner and reward show for the Million Dollar Body Game. The guy on the left is Todd. He was a loner too, so we took him under our wings:)

My awesome roomies, minus one, she wasn't there yet. This is just before we were dripping like we jumped into a swimming pool. That's Connie, and Jean.
CEO and Founder of Beachbody Carl Daikeler. They don't get any more genuine than this guy. Without him I wouldn't have a transformation story. He is fantastic!

Man oh Man did I have fun! I met some of the greatest people on earth, and I got to exercise with the best trainers on earth:)

My favorite part was group exercise. We were all packed in a room like sardines and every trainer that Beachbody has took us through 10-15 minutes of hard core work. Don't worry I didn't disappoint...I BROUGHT IT PEOPLE!!!! Pregnant or no pregnant I wasn't pooping out. I gotta say though, by the time Tony Horton came around...it was time to take my camera out for pics:) The whole workout was 1:30. And it was tough, but EXTREMELY exhilarating. I don't think I've ever been so happy! The energy in that room is hard to put into words, but if you've ever been somewhere where everyone felt the exact same way at the exact same time, there's nothing like it. And even after all is said and done and we were dripping in sweat, and I mean dripping...we still had smiles on our faces and couldn't wait for the next workout. So fun!!!

I had no idea who my roommates were, or how we were going to get along, but now we are life-long friends. In fact, I made a lot of friends. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

And the best part:) I got pictures with the man himself and P90X mastermind Tony Horton, the Turbo Queen Chalene Johnson, and CEO and founder of Beachbody Carl Daikeler. Oh and Tanya, I told Chalene what her program did for you, and she is as great in person as she is in her videos, she was so thrilled for you. Get ready cuz she's got a new one coming out called Turbo Fire. We got a taste of it and it is a BLAST!

Anyway...

Chalene just Rocks. I think we're kindred spirit's. Love her!

Yep that's Tony standing by 2 prego's. Just cuz we're pregnant doesn't mean we can't Bring It!

So who's with me for next year's Summit, in LA on June 16-19?! I think I found a yearly tradition. SUCH A BLAST!!! More pictures later.

I think it goes without saying, but I'll say it anyway...it's been a while...I'm blaming it on pregnancy. So here's the 4-1-1 on my life so far. I've been exercising less enthusiastically, but regularly. I eat when I'm hungry and I don't care so much what it is. That's not to say I eat junk. It just means if I want a bagel and cream cheese I eat it. If I want another portion of spaghetti I have it, and if I want a treat at the end of every day I don't drink a glass of water instead.

I have to say it's been hard to see the scale slowly move up. I know it's supposed to, but it's more that I realize how hard I have to work when all is said and done. The good news is I have all the tools and knowledge I need to get back to P90X and Insanity shape. And you better believe as soon as I'm able I'm hitting it HARD!!! For now though, I'm not going to worry about it so much.

I was able to attend the temple while my long time friend Steph received her endowment. It was awesome to see it happen so Congrats again to her. So glad I was able to be there.

I was watching a triathalon the other day and actually got teary eyed when I saw them cross the finish line, again I blame it on pregnancy. But it made me really want to do one. However, I should probably start with a marathon. I stink at swimming, and just doing a marathon intimidates the crap out of me. So baby steps, but they're both on my list. So a little shout out to Tanya who did a half marathon recently. I wish I were running next to you! You have definitely made some VERY positive changes in your life. It's very inspirational. When I'm done nursing I plan on training for one, a marathon, that is. If I'm gonna do it, It's gotta be the BIG one, mostly because it's the one that has me "walking" the other way. I would love some buddies because I need the motivation. Like I said I'm intimidated. So Tanya, Robyn, Tina, Becky, Brinley, anyone....?! I'm just sayin'...It'll be a few summers from now, but still.

On another note I'm heading to Los Angeles at the end of the month to meet Shaun T (Insanity), Tony Horton (P90X), Chalene Johnson (Turbo Jam), and work out with them. I'm headed down by myself, but no worries I'll be surrounded by thousands of Beachbody enthusiasts. I CAN'T WAIT!!! No kids, and pure fun for 3 days:) WHOO HOOO!

Tanner has started coach pitch baseball and he LOVES it sooo much! He is following in the footsteps of his father. I love to watch him out there, so cute:)

Last but not least we finally have central air. HURRAY! It took a lot of haggling, but I'm very pleased with who we chose. Honest and REASONABLE. Everyone else was clear out of the ball park. It was all said and done yesterday and I'm thrilled we no longer have to climb on the roof, fix whatever's wrong with the swamp this year, and suffer through the miserable wet, sticky, hot anyway, summer. The timing had nothing to do with pregnancy through the whole summer, either;) (yes, yes it did)

So there you go. My life thus far. Also we get to find out boy or girl May 14, so I'll be sure to let you know.

Good News!

So now it's time to let the cat out of the bag. I am PREGNANT!!! I am 12 weeks as of this Saturday, which makes my due date October 2, 2010. I know many of you probably suspected, but now you have confirmation. I have been exhausted, but I'm happy to report that I have kept up my exercise routine. It is a little less intense, and usually is always followed up with a nap mid afternoon, but at least I can check it off my list. My diet however, is STILL a complete disaster. NOTHING sounds good, well actually that's not entirely true. Junk sounds good...lol. And because I'm pregnant I feel entitled. Which is ridiculous because I always feel sick after. As for preparing meals, since it's baseball season, I'm tired, and Kelcey doesn't get home til late, I never feel like preparing ANYTHING. The kids have had ramen noodles, hot dogs, canned chicken noodle soup, bean burritos, frozen pizza:( I'm sad to say for the last 12 weeks their diets have been awful. I have eaten cold cereal, an apple and cottage cheese, bean burritos, pasta, etc. Basically anything that can be prepared quickly and with very little fuss. The worst part is I won't eat what I've been feeding the kids, but it's okay for them to eat it?!  It has not been pretty. This is so not like me. 

I know I'm pregnant and all that, but I feel like I'm in someone else's body. I start burning after one rep of whatever. I can barely do half the push-ups I was doing before, and my endurance is pathetic. It is very frustrating! That's pregnancy for ya I guess.

I am very excited about it though. And so are the kids. I'm a little freaked out on where to put 4 children, but I've got 9 months to stew about. Life is good, and it will only get better. I just gotta get through this first trimester...

Confessions and Epiphanies

So something you should probably know about me. I make a zillion goals and then I hit about 2 or 3. Which means that my once a week recipe, is more likely going to be whenever I get around to it or think about it. I have been a major slacker lately, which I have a perfectly good explanation for, but I'm not sharing until later. Now...

Some more things you should know. I go through slumps. Sometimes they are long and sometimes very brief. This one lately has been a long one. I've fallen off the wagon for 3 or 4 weeks. I LOVE FOOD! I always have. And I could probably eat anyone under the table, especially if the food is good. But the problem with this crappy eating lately, is that I'm not putting good quality food in my body. And I am feeling the difference. I'm more moody, tired, sluggish, and sloppy, plus I feel gross, and yet I still eat crappy. My workouts have been sub-par to say the least, and my motivation has gone down. It has started a rough cycle for me. Which has been followed by negative thoughts, attitude, and feelings. So my question is WHY? When I know that the food I've been eating has a direct effect on the way I feel physically, emotionally, and spiritually why do I continue to do it? Hmmm...now I'm not a scientist, or a nutritionist so you can take what I say and do what you want with it, but I really think that this food I've been eating has been messing with my brain. I truly think it's addictive. For starters, I love the feeling of biting into an ice cream smothered brownie, and I will probably never stop eating them, and in the moment there is nothing better. It is heaven, but about an hour or two after I feel sluggish, and bloated. The same thing applies with eating a burger and fries. It tastes good at first, and in the moment it's blissful, but after I ALWAYS feel horrible...ALWAYS! I'm not talking about guilt either. I'm talking about physically. I just feel sick. And I find myself in a food coma, NOT a good place to be.

On the flip side, when I eat healthy foods. I ALWAYS feel amazing. I have energy. I feel happy, motivated, positive, excited about life, and I look forward to my workouts. I feel like I can do anything! 

Today was the last straw for me. I took the kids to a fast food restaurant today. I got a burger and then ate whatever the kids didn't, fries, chicken rings, corn dog. My kids wanted to play on the toys and I sat in my chair and watched them play. I was thinking to myself, I have no desire to move, or run around. I don't want to do anything but take a nap. What have I been doing the last several weeks? This is crazy!

To all of you that have stayed with me so far and my ramblings. Food is energy, life, health, vitality! Food is wholesome and good, delicious and enjoyable. Food is being with family, celebration, and fun. There is no reason why we can't indulge once in a while, but my only wish is that we feed our bodies wholesome foods more often than not. I am recommitting! It's back on the wagon for me. I'm getting out of this slump, and I am putting good food in my body so that when my kids play I want to play with them! I commit to having a treat when it suits me, but not more than is satisfying. I commit to being positive and happy! I commit to myself for the 3,000th time. Who's with me?!

I CHOPPED IT:)!!!!!

So as you can see I chopped my hair. I love, love, love it. And man is it fast to do, which makes it that much better. And the cherry on the top is the hubs is so happy I went for it. It was with his encouragement that I got the guts. I was scared to death though. A women's hair is not something to be trifled with. A bad haircut is much more than a bad hair cut! But I've always thought that short hair suited me. Long hair makes me look 18. I could have enrolled in high school again and started all over if I wanted to. So I was done with that. People always tell Kelcey he robbed the cradle with me, so it was inevitable that my hair would come off at some point. There is no turning back, nor do I want to. I think short hair is here to stay. 

Random thoughts

So today is going to be a good old fashioned just blog about whatever kind of day. It's been a while since I've had one of those. And I'm wondering, if perhaps, that all of you are getting bored with my endless talk on health and fitness. So I'm just gonna ramble, are you ready?

I'm not a big gamer. I play here and there, but it's not the first thing I would do given the chance. However, we got WII Sports Resort for christmas, and though I don't love all the games, there are a few that I can get lost in. There's the 3-point shooting contest, and ping pong. I think I like them because I own Kelcey...most of the time. It rarely happens so I have to gloat when I get the chance. I also love good old fashioned Mario Bros. Those games are classic. They will be great games til forever because they are simple, and fun. Remember the first time Nintendo came out? I still remember playing it in Texas with my family. Jaaromy beat the entire Super Mario Bros. game before anyone, and I remember thinking he was AMAZING!

Okay so enough of that. 

So more things I like sleeping children, not because it's finally quiet in the house, though I LOVE that too, but because they sleep so soundly. They do not have a care in the world. The things my kids get most excited about when waking up is "special" cereal, or Saturday morning cartoons. So simple, and yet so exciting. I remember being a kid. Life was just easy, and I never doubted who I was, or where I was going. My dreams were a reality for me. And I could care less what anyone thought about them because they were mine. And I KNEW who I was!(just reiterating)  Somewhere in my life things started to get harder. It wasn't my environment that changed, but me. When was it that the opinions of others started to matter so much? Or that great things could only be accomplished by "those" people. I'm thinking the shift happened somewhere around 5th-6th grade. Suddenly what I looked like, or what I had wasn't good enough. That girl had better hair, that girl had straighter teeth, that person has more money, that person has more talent, that person is going places that I'll never go, etc. When did those ugly voices start to get so LOUD?! I guess none of that really matters, the "when" stuff anyway. Honestly, I have complete control of my attitude, and whether or not I listen to those negative thoughts. I can still have my dreams, regardless of who or what tells me I can't. And I can still sleep soundly at night and wake up excited about "special" cereal, or a tv show. I can still be a kid, not childish, mind you, but get excited about the simple stuff. I think I do:) I get a little passionate about things, okay maybe more than a little, but that's me. I've always been that way. And I've always been driven, where to always depends on what I listen to (good or bad thoughts), but driven none-the-less. And a dreamer always and forever a dreamer. And sometimes I yell at my kids, and can be a little over the top, but I LOVE them fiercely. I LOVE being a mom. I can be pretty crappy at it. I'm not sure I ever say the right thing, or act the right way, but I love doing it. I love that I can deal with puke and poop, even if it gets on me. I love being able to laugh at myself, or think that farting is funny, and gross, but funny still. And I love being silly and speaking my mind. So ya I am still a kid sometimes, and I stick my foot in my mouth a lot, but I still KNOW who I am, even when I think I don't. 

Life is full of random stuff and this is probably the most random blog, but it was just what I was thinking about. Do you know who you are? Just checkin...

 

Better late than never Recipe of the week...And a little forgetfulness

Okay first things first. My marinara recipe. I don't have exact measurements once again so bare with me, and I don't have pictures, sorry I know it makes it more fun. Also I don't know the calories on this, but marinara sauce of any kind is very low in calories, usually...unless you add fatty meats and things. Anyway...

1 can tomato sauce

1 can tomato paste

1 can Stewed Italian Style Tomatoes

1 packet spaghetti seasoning (look at the labels) get the least amount of sugar as possible. You don't even really need the packet, but if your culinary skills aren't that great than it's perfect for this. If you don't want to use the spaghetti seasoning packet, and you want to avoid sugar all together, then throw in a little basil, italian seasoning, a little oregano, salt, pepper, granulated garlic, and/or minced garlic. It works like a charm. Don't be afraid of adding spices. It's actually quite fun to experiment. Start with a little, and you can add more as you go. And if you want to get really sneaky, puree some zuchinni or yellow squash, or both, and toss it in. You can't taste it at all, and the kids don't know they're eating vegies, great trick:)

For the packet people this is the rest of the ingredients. Salt, pepper, granulated garlic, and Italian Seasoning to taste. I always guess, you decide what tastes good.

• Combine everything in a crockpot. You may need to add 2 tomato paste cans filled with water, if it's too thick, but if you like it thick then leave it the way it is. It just won't go as far. Set on low, and simmer all day. So so so easy. Double the recipe and put the left-overs in 1 cup containers and freeze. You can use it for last minute dinners (which happen at our house ALL the time) pizza, or dipping sauce for whole wheat bread sticks:) or whatever you can come up with.

I'll do homemade protein bars next. It involves real peanut butter, or almond butter, NO SUGAR!!! banana, granola, and protein powder. No cooking required, but if you want it more firm you roll it in wax paper and freeze it. I love it, and so do the kids actually. I'll work out the amounts of everything, and I'll have pictures to post so you can see it. Hopefully I can work out the calorie total as well:) But if you're feeling adventurous and want to experiment with the amounts GO FOR IT!!! It's really fun, and you learn your own tastes. Also I have some friends that make their own granola. I want to get their recipe because some granola can be riddled with sugar, and the unsweetened kind can get really expensive. So I'm working on that.

My next thing I wanted to talk about is forgetfulness! I am notorious for this. At first it was kind of funny, but lately things that I have every intention of doing, and actually WANT to do I am forgetting about. And it's not just things that don't matter. It's things that are very important! Even when I write them down or post them places I forget. The excuse "I forgot" sounds so LAME and pathetic. I can see the look on their faces "uh-huh, sure I believe you." So what is the deal?! Can it be fixed? What's wrong with me?! Do any of you suffer from this? Seriously I've gotta get a grip. Help...

P-I-Z-Z-A!!! And yes even this can be good for you:)

Okay time for another recipe:) Kelcey and I had this before our date last week and it turned out so beautifully I took a picture and decided to post about it. We ate at the counter with the lights dimmed and a vase of flowers. Another one of our goals is to eat out less for dates, well...just eat out less in general. It was actually really fun to cook together and not worry about the kids. I would highly recommend it. This recipe serves 4 

There are a few variations with this recipe. I used my homemade spaghetti sauce that was leftover. The key is to make a lot and then freeze it in 1 cup tupperware, the ones I use are in the rectangle shape with the purple lid. You can just buy your own marinara sauce, just be sure to get the kind without sugar, if they make it:) We usually do a pizza Friday, I need to give a shout-out to Kourtney (my sister-in-law) who does this at her house. My kids love it so thanks!  Now I also make my own 100% whole wheat pizza dough. It's so fast and cheap so it's the only way to go for us. One cup of whole wheat flour =400ish calories. That is the amount of flour I used to make this crust so 1/4 of this pizza, just with the dough, is 200 calories. If you want to go less buy a 100% whole wheat pita bread, the flat round ones. I think pita bread is only 75 calories per serving. In other words you could eat more, or add more toppings, your choice. I, however, am not a fan of pita bread so I stick to my pizza dough. I continue to try it though;) You never know, maybe one day I'll like it.

100% Whole Wheat Pizza Dough:

1 c. whole wheat flour (buy it in bulk and you'll save$)

1/3 c. 80 degree water

1 tsp. yeast

1/8 tsp. salt, or just guess (you don't need a lot)

• pour yeast into water
• mix flour and salt
• when yeast is dissolved add to flour. I sometimes don't like to wait so I get a spoon and mix it. I know, that's a culinary no no, but I just want to get it done, and you know what, my dough ALWAYS turns out. 
• You may need to add a little more flour or water. You want the dough to come off your hands, but have it moist enough that it's soft and sticks together.
• Kneed the dough into a ball (I use a kitchen aid) and when it's done kneed just a little longer and place it back in the bowl. Cover with cling wrap, and a dish towel. If you're in a big hurry pre-heat your oven, turn it off, open the door, and slide the bowl in there. It'll rise very quickly without cooking it, just watch the kids and pets, since the door needs to remain open.

I know I have a lot of cheats, but I don't like sitting around all day. You could start early, but I never do, so this is the way it is:)

Toppings:

1 c. marinara sauce

1/4 c. mozzarella cheese

1/2 yellow bell pepper

1/2 red bell pepper

1 green onion chopped

1/2 c. broccoli

1/2 c. grilled chicken. (Mine was pre-made and frozen, so just defrost it)

• spread sauce over raw rolled out dough
• Top with veggies, and then the cheese
• cook at 400 degrees for 20 minutes, or until cheese bubbles
• Slice into quarters and enjoy!

On the side add 1 cup of salad with olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and granulated garlic. This is our favorite salad. We have one every night. And a big glass of ice water with a squeeze of lemon or lime. This meal equals around 350 calories, give or take a few. My totals are never exact. They are always ball park. 

As you can see I pre-make a lot of my foods. If I make spaghetti, I ALWAYS make extra sauce because we always use it. That's with any sauce. I make my own enchilada sauce too, and always double the recipe. If I make chicken I'll grill a lot of it, slice it up and freeze it, or put it in the refrigerator for a chicken wrap for lunch the next day. It makes dinners fast and easy. And I never have to wonder what I'm going to eat for lunch because it's always ready. That's the trick really. Eating healthy just takes a little more planning. Remember to start small. Start with eating a very healthy breakfast in the morning. For example a regular breakfast for me is 1/2 cup dry whole oats (oatmeal) cooked in the microwave, then add 1/4 cup frozen blueberries (190 calories), and 1 whole egg with 2 whites(110 calories). I make sure to have protein with my breakfast because it reduces sugar cravings. Which I struggle with A LOT. It's always worse if I don't get my protein fix in the morning.

You could also increase your water consumption. I drink a gallon a day. What you'll find is when you "think" you're hungry, you're actually thirsty. A good way get your water in is drink 1 cup before and after every meal (if you're eating 5-6 meals that is). Try to get a half gallon down before noon every day. You'll have to pee a TON at first, but your body will regulate. If you just started here you would feel very different.

Give me a shout out if you would like to know anything in particular...here's to healthy eating:)

 

Recipe of the Week

I have been thinking a great deal about how I can help my readers of this blog to not only exercise, but eat right as well. Because losing weight, getting fit, and feeling great is about 20% exercise and 80% food. The things we put in our mouth determine our results. Nutrition is not easy, especially if you have grown accustomed to your regular diet, but with small changes you can be eating better and FEELING better and LOOKING better than ever. And those workouts that COMPLETELY wipe you out will have their reward because you are eating the proper foods in the proper amounts. I am always tweaking and fixing because eating healthy takes practice and I am ALWAYS and FOREVER  a work in progress. However, I want to share the things I use and have used to get me there. My body rewards me when I eat well. And THAT is worth it! 

Now I want to dispel a myth. Eating well is NOT starving yourself. What I will share with you are solid, healthy foods. I eat between 2200-2400 calories a day depending on how I feel. I eat that much because I am very active. I NEVER EVER go hungry! It's not good for you and it defeats the purpose of living a healthy, fit life.  Nor will your body let go of fat if you are in starvation mode, not a good place to be, and the fastest way to hit a plateau. I eat 5-6 small nutritious meals a day, and I DON'T spend hours in the kitchen. I have 3 kids for heavens sake so I don't have time for that, nor do I think many people do. So I use protein powder, protein bars (which I make:), and buy, it just depends), left overs from the night before, and Shakeology (it's my supplement and meal and I don't go a day without it SERIOUSLY!) Okay with that said...

We are going to go over portion size. On the left is one of my dinner plates. On the right is a salad plate. We use the salad plates for the kids and for myself. I haven't converted Kelcey yet, but I'm working on it. And those little hands are Kody's. He had to be involved. Now I use a salad plate whenever I can. It keeps me honest, and it fools your brain into thinking you have a ton of food on your plate. For those of you just starting I would recommend starting here. Try portion sizing everything at first.

This was my lunch today and the first meal I am featuring. Before you start calling "FIBBER" on me with my "easy meal talk" earlier, these are left-overs from last nights meal. I just added steamed vegies instead of salad. So this meal took me 10 minutes maybe to throw together. And it's on my salad plate, so see it totally looks like a TON of food. What you're looking at is 3/4 C whole wheat pasta, 1 ground turkey meatball sliced in half, and 1_1/4 C. steamed vegies, with a pinch of salt and pepper. This meal equals about 350 calories. I make my own sauce so there is no sugar and that recipe will be for another day. Today I am going to tell you how to make the ground turkey meatballs. 

This is what I use. It is ground turkey breast, no dark meat or skin in there. You can get this at Winco for $3.19/lb. It's the cheapest I've found ground turkey breast EVER, but it's worth it. I rarely use ground beef anymore. I like to cut corners on fat and especially saturated fat. My kids love it and so do I soooo yummy.

1lb. ground turkey breast

10 saltine crackers

2-3Tbs. grated parmesan cheese

Salt, pepper, and granulated garlic. (I just guess with this so I'm not sure on the measurements, so take a good guess on what would taste good for you and go for it, but careful on the salt:) Next time I'll add a little hot red pepper for some spice, and some Italian seasoning. I'll let you know how it turns out. I like to experiment:) 

• Blend all together like a meat loaf
• roll into 8 meat balls or do 4 LARGE meat balls (1 serving= 4 oz or 120 calories. There are 4 servings in one 1lb package, so you decide what works for you)
• spray broiler pan with non-stick spray
• place in the oven on High Broil a few inches from the heat
• It cooks for about 6 minutes, turn meat balls over, cook another 6 minutes, or until completely done (no pink)
• Place meat balls in prepared sauce and simmer in the crock pot all day until dinner

So there you have it. I haven't always been a fan of whole wheat pasta, but if I don't like something I try it until I do. I don't like being picky because it limits what I can eat. Anyway I made both kinds of pasta white and whole wheat, just to reduce the shock factor in the house, and you know what...my kids preferred the whole wheat! AWESOME! It actually wasn't that bad this time. I got the whole wheat spaghetti in the bulk foods section at Winco, and it's the best whole wheat pasta I've tried. Kelcey didn't even mind it, which is saying a lot. He still prefers white, but I'll get him converted don't you worry:) He'll have to because that's all I will buy now. You gotta go with what the kids will eat, right? Perhaps next time I will go over making your own spaghetti sauce. Until next time...Here's to healthy eating