5 Things

1. Brandon and I decided we need to attend the temple more often so our new goal is once a month. On Saturday night, we got a babysitter and went with another couple from our ward. We went out to eat afterwards. Can I just say how nice it is to dine out without a toddler?

2. Watching The Biggest Loser has inspired me to take getting into shape more seriously. Since New Year's, I've been working out religiously 4 times a week, even getting up early to go to the gym. I've even surprised myself! Who knew? Also, we moved our treadmill into our bedroom a while ago and I've used it more in the last month that I did in the previous three years. Maybe I'll finally lose that baby weight after all (never mind that my baby is 15 months old today!).

I wish I looked like this girl.

3. Since starting to teach preschool, I seem to be constantly sick with a cold. It's odd to me because I wash my hands so much they are usually raw. Anyway, the last few days I've been totally stuffed up and miserable. How come I never appreciate breathing through my nose until I can't?

4. Other than the germs, I really love my job. It's so rewarding. I have four year olds who are already reading, which is so exciting. (It's more of a reflection of the curriculum than anything I've done, but still.)

Some of my class making wreaths in December

5. I made chicken pot pie from scratch the other day and boy, was it good. Total comfort food. If you want the recipe I used, click here. (I replaced the celery with potatoes because I hate celery.)

Happy Happy Joy Joy!

These last few days I have had three reasons to do a happy dance.

First, I booked a flight for Addyson and me to SLC to visit my family! We are going in less than three weeks and are staying for almost a week.

Next, I received some fantastic good mail yesterday from my friend Kelly in Arizona. She's going to start a blog soon. (Right, Kel?) She sent me this adorable pink dress for Addy and a Target gift card. It was so nice and thoughtful..and even better because it was unexpected! Thanks, Kel! (I'll post a picture later.)

And the grand finale...

Remember this post? Well, I tried on some of my pre-pregnancy jeans today and THEY DID UP! Woo hoo! I am thrilled to report that I have been doing great in this area. I have been working out faithfully and not eating sugar, and just eating less in general. It seems that eating sugar only fuels your appetite to eat more...and not eating it helps you eat less and make better food choices. I still have a ways to go but this progress has remotivated me! I have been starting to run again...today I went out jogging/walking and I did 4.2 miles (I clocked it in the car). I would say that I ran 3/4 of the time. I am just loving being active again! It feels great.

And on that note...I'm off to a fondue party. Hey, I'm only human!

The Battle of the Bulge

I'll just come out and admit it: I'm pleasantly plump (although, is plump ever pleasant?). I gained WAY too much weight when I was pregnant with Addyson (I'm ashamed to admit: 45 lbs.). So far, I have not tried very hard to lose it. I naturally lost 25 and I was HOPING that nursing would take off the other 20. HA! Whoever said that nursing helps you lose weight is a liar. (Or perhaps it has something to do with me eating massive amounts of chocolate daily.) Either way, about 2 weeks ago I decided SOMETHING had to change when Brandon and I had this conversation (notice the quotation marks):

Brandon: "WE" should start eating healthier.

ME: "WE?" Since when do you care about health? (Brandon has NEVER shown any interest in nutrition or fitness.)

Brandon: I just think "WE" should start eating better. "LET'S" cut out all sugar until June.

It was blatantly obvious that he just wants me to lose weight. Maybe I'm reading too much into it, but my husband ADORES candy. We usually have an entire cupboard full of sugary treats. So for him to suggest this is crazy talk. We just found out that his sister Emily is getting married in June, so this gives "US" a goal to shoot for. So it's official: "WE" are cutting out all sweets until her wedding. This includes candy, ice cream, cookies, cake, pie, and yes, chocolate. I've been doing this for 2 weeks now and it's not so bad! The first few days were brutal, but once the cravings stop, it's cake. (MMM, CAKE.....oops, back on track.)

So I am now actively trying to lose the weight. Here's my game plan:

1. Continue the no sugar thing as discussed.

2. Exercise at least 4 times a week.

3. Eat one apple every day. (Have you tried this? It's a great tip. It satisfies the sweet tooth, and fills you up.)

Last week, I achieved the exercise goal and the sugar goal. I haven't yet exercised this week, but the week is young.

I would love to hear your weight loss tips! Here's to a more svelte me!