Turban Tied

Fact: Using a microfiber cloth to towel dry wet hair decreases blow-dry time; thereby decreasing potential damage to hair and saving you time and money in the process.

Myth: In order to experience these benefits you must purchase one of the popular microfiber towel brands currently being marketed on infomercials and in beauty store chains like ULTA and Sephora.

Mommy Did You Know: … that the same fabric that comprises the microfiber Turbie Twist® and DevaTowel® also makes up all those burpie cloths and old t-shirts you’ve got lying around? And if you’ve considered spending $18 on the Aquis® Waffle Weave Hair Towel, you could just as easily purchase a thermal (i.e. waffle-weave) t-shirt from Wal-Mart for only $7! You’ll get equal performance and save a whopping 61%!!!

So grab a waffle weave t-shirt or an old burpie cloth before your next shampoo and shave a few minutes off your next blow out, Pretty Mommy.

WHOLE30 Day #21- 2nd Day Dinner…Done!

WHOLE30 Day #21 – So last night for our main course protein, we had rotisserie chicken, AKA “the go-to fast food meal of Paleos.” It was delicious, and perhaps more important, it was convenient. But as is always the case in our household, we had more than half the chicken leftover afterwards. I suspect you’ve had a similar experience with whole chickens unless you’re serving a family of 6+ in which case my heart goes out to you! In the old (pre-WHOLE30) days, I would have easily used the leftovers to generate some sort of chicken and rice dish, but alas rice is no longer an option. So when my mother suggested I make a stir-fry for the second-day meal, my initial thought was: Ugh, impossible without rice! Then my next thoughts were of all the ways to mimic rice; how I should run to the store; purchase some cauliflower and try out that cool ricing technique I’d seen on so many Paleo blogs recently. But Hubs detests cauliflower and he’d surely see through that trick, I reasoned. Plus, I’d already pushed my luck with him only a few days ago with the fried sprouts adventure. Probably best not to force him into eating two such dreaded veggies in close succession.

After too many minutes spent pondering the issue, I went to refrigerator and stumbled upon my first tip for success when “doing” the WHOLE30.
Are you ready? Here it is:
Keep as much fresh produce in your house as you can (or have room for), even if you don’t know how you’re going to use them (that is, even if you have no particular recipe in mind for them).

Having spare fruits and veggies in the house has saved me on multiple occasions when trying to figure out dinner (see Turkey Cabbage Skillet as but one example). In this case, I rummaged through the fridge and found some fresh ginger root, extra celery, a couple of bell peppers and some colorful baby carrots (listed in the recipe as just carrots), etc. And I keep unsweetened pineapple juice on hand for making my WHOLE30-ish popsicles (see recipe here) as well as various forms of coconut – oil, aminos, etc. because I’ve become so fond of cooking with coconut (as I discussed in this post). So I decided to just give it my best shot with creating a stir-fry that would be satisfying on its own without rice.

WHOLE30 Rotisserie Chicken Stir-fry – Delicious 2nd Day Dinner Option

The result garnered rave reviews from the family and is pictured below. I’d encourage you to experiment with other veggies that may be favorites around your house. I think zucchini or broccoli would be terrific. But we had no zucchini on hand, and Hubs abhors broccoli (noticing a trend here?). One word of caution, don’t tempted to skimp on the veggies or to omit the eggs. You need the fiber, texture and crunch provided by the variety of vegetables, and the eggs provide additional protein and bulk to the mixture. Lastly, I did add a half packet of stevia to mimic the sweet and sour flavor of take-out stir-fry, which is not strictly WHOLE30 approved. You can omit it if you are a perfectionist. I think it’s better with it, but that’s your call.

Ingredients:
• 1 Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
• 2 Tbsp. liquid coconut oil (I used Carrington’s brand)
• ¼ cup unsweetened pineapple or orange juice
• ½ tsp. salt
• ¼ tsp. garlic powder
• 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh, peeled ginger
• 1 whole red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 whole green bell pepper, sliced
• 5 large carrots, peeled and cut in large chunks or thick slices
• 5 ribs celery, cut into large chunks
• 2 whole eggs, beaten
• ½ cup pineapple chunks
• 1 Tbsp. dark sesame oil
• 1 Tbsp. rice vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. coconut aminos (e.g. Coconut Secret)
• ½ packet stevia sweetener (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped cashews or sunflower seeds

Process:
1. Remove chicken meat (be sure to get both white and dark meat) from the bone and try to remove any visible fat and skin. Set meat aside.
2. Place a large skillet or wok over MEDIUM-HIGH heat and add coconut oil and pineapple juice, then add salt, garlic powder and fresh ginger. Stir to combine and allow to sauté briefly.
3. Next add peppers, carrots and celery. Cook for 3-5 minutes while stirring continuously.
4. Add chicken and eggs to the pan, again stirring continuously. You want to scramble the eggs and make sure the whole mixture is combined and the eggs coat the mixture evenly.
5. When the eggs are cooked, turn off the heat. Stir in the pineapple and the next 3 ingredients. Toss lightly to ensure even distribution of oils and seasonings.
6. Cover the mixture for a few minutes (5 minutes should do the trick).
7. Just before serving, sprinkle with sweetener (if using) and stir to combine. Then sprinkle with nuts.
Serve & Enjoy. Makes about 5 generous portions

Verse of the Day:
Because of your little faith,” He told them. “For I assure you: If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.
Matthew 17:20 (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
Read more here.

Resource for the Day:
Bible Gateway Plus

The Marvelous Magnificence of MUTU

My Results in Only 12 Weeks with MUTU

I’m a control freak. I admit it. Big changes and major life events tend to make me anxious. I generally try to cope by doing lots of research, making plans and taking steps to feel prepared, safe, like I have a sense of control over what’s happening. So when I got pregnant, I spent a lot of time researching various health issues that may affect pregnant women. Early in my first trimester, I stumbled upon a condition called Diastasis Recti (DR) and was fascinated. It was like I finally had an answer for why so many women in my family had what they affectionately referred to as “mummy tummys” despite being relatively thin after childbirth. My own mother always carried a bubble of bloat just below her waist despite dropping to only 97 pounds after I was born. She always said it was because she never did any ab exercises. I assumed she was correct and swore it would never happen to me.

I became obsessed with avoiding DR. When I read that doing crunches later into pregnancy could cause my abdominal muscles to separate and create the very condition I desperately wanted to avoid, I stopped crunching cold turkey. I insisted on getting out of bed sideways each and every time (even in the middle of the night). I fanatically avoided any movement that would strain my abdominals. I used supportive belly bands while exercising. I counted calories throughout my pregnancy so as not to gain too much weight (because I’d read that contributed to post-pregnancy belly bulge). I drank at least a gallon of pure, filtered water every day and gave up anything that might lead to bloat like dairy or diet sodas. I took tons of supplements. By my third trimester, I had a daily workout routine of at least 300 squats (guaranteed to make labor a breeze according to multiple websites) and walking at least 5 miles. I scoured the internet for “the best” postpartum compression girdle and had that bad boy delivered and packed in my hospital bag weeks before my due date. Yep, I had it all under control…that is until I went into labor.

When the Labor & Delivery began monitoring our daughter, they estimated her size as between 8.5 and 10 pounds. I knew at that point that I was not going to have the easy breezy labor I’d planned for (I’m a small person with narrow hips not designed to push out a large baby). I’ll spare you the details of my labor. In summary I was in labor for about 20 hours after my water broke. I pushed for about 2 hours. And though I dilated fully, my daughter just never “arrived.” Her head was stuck, and I needed an emergency C-Section. There were several moments during that 20 hours where I remember saying to the doctor, “just go get her (e.g. do the C Section now)” because I was concerned about my daughter’s safety and all my planning and vanity ceased to matter. When they wheeled me in for the surgery, I remember thinking, “I’m so glad we are doing this!” Ironically, when the doctor cut me open he also pulled my abdominal muscles apart just like you’d pull open a pair of curtains. He did exactly what I’d tried to avoid all those months, and I ended up with a great big split in my abdominals. And I’m happy he did it because I have a beautiful, healthy baby girl. Of course, I was left with not only bulging abdominals but a big surgical incision so I wasn’t even able to use the expensive compression girdles I’d purchased. Isn’t it funny how we think we are planning our steps, but God determines the ways we truly will go (Proverbs 16:9)?

Anyway, after about 2 months of recovery from major surgery and the even bigger life adjustment of having a newborn, I got the go-ahead from my doc to begin some physical activity. So I began searching for a program to rehab from DR and a C Section, and I found several articles recommending the MUTU system. After more research, I decided MUTU would be the best program for me, and Hubs generously offered to purchase for me as a Christmas gift. I started the program at 3 months postpartum and have posted my BEFORE and AFTER pics below. The results are really incredible. I am sharing my story because DR affects more that 65% of all mamas, and it is incredibly frustrating and may include some very problematic other symptoms. But recovery is possible even if your children are 5, 10 even 15 years old. Also, I think it’s important for us all to remember that as humans we can only control so much in life but there is comfort and peace in knowing the God who is in control of everything and in trusting that He has a good and perfect plan for each one of us (Jeremiah 29:11).

I hope my story and pictures provide you with encouragement. I have also included the direct link to the MUTU online store below a couple more of my before & after pictures so you can directly access this awesome resource, my fellow Pretty Mommies. I pray for peace, health and joy for each of you all!

Thought for the Day:
Look here, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit.” How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. What you ought to say is, “If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that.” Otherwise you are boasting about your own pretentious plans, and all such boasting is evil.
~James 4:13-16 (NLT)
Read more here.

Resource of the Day:

WHOLE30 Day #8 – One Week Down!!!

Well, we’ve completed a full week of our WHOLE30 journey. Seven days down and 23 more to go. As I pause to take stock and savor this accomplishment, I am struck by one overwhelming realization – I am completely and totally exhausted. I mean I’m tired like down into my bones. I’m so tired sometimes it feels like extra work to sit in the chair and breathe.

My primary job every day is taking care of our nearly 6-month old baby, cook and take care of the home, etc. I’m also blessed to have the help of my mother who lives with us. Her assistance is especially wonderful these days with my energy waning. I find myself craving a nap every day and trying to power through with alternate nostril breathing and coffee. It takes all the strength I’ve got to complete my daily yoga sessions, and I seem be more sore afterwards. Luckily, I’m still able to do my MUTU Core Exercises every day which is extremely important to me because I’ve seen such amazing results in reversing my diastase recti (AKA the “mummy tummy”) I developed during my pregnancy.

I can’t imagine how Hubs is managing his work load. I am grateful for his attitude. He continues to encourage me through the process and reminds me that according to the WHOLE30 authors, this fatigue has arrived right on scheduled and is expected part of the 30-day timeline.

Wisdom for the Day:
Behold, God is my helper; The Lord is the sustainer of my soul.
~Psalm 54:4 (NASB)
Read more here.

WHOLE30 Day #2 – Busted!

So our WHOLE30 adventure continues. I’m embarrassed to admit that it only took 2 days to reveal some rather ugly aspects of my character. I woke up to the baby crying and fantasies of chemical-laced coffee creamer and artificial sweetener. So I “generously” offered to let Hubs sleep in while I got up to take care of our baby. Even as I prepped her bottle, I knew what I was going to do and planned to very quietly retrieve the sweeteners out of the corner of the pantry where I’d hidden them just days before.

A few minutes later, Baby Girl changed, fed, burped and happy, I sprung into action. I brewed up my coffee and stirred in that delicious white “creamer” powder full of mystery and unpronounceable chemicals. Yum! I paused. “Hmm, better at least try to use fewer packets of sweetener. I’ll go with half.” I then experienced momentary guilt for cheating on our commitment, but I tell myself Hubs will understand. Didn’t he describe black coffee with no creamer and no sweetener as “like drinking a cup of fresh brewed hatred”? Yeah, he’d understand. Besides, he won’t know.

I’d just sat and taken my first sip when Hubs came out of the bedroom. He took one look at my cup and launched into a lecture about all the reasons we chose to do the WHOLE30; how we want to be healthier for our daughter; how the current discomfort is only temporary and will result in long term benefits. He reminded me of all the things we had discussed before we decided to take this journey. And I felt guilty. But I also felt uncertain. Perhaps I was never really committed to this process; otherwise I would not have kept those items so readily accessible. This reminded me of the scripture below. As a result of this lesson, I’ve had to rethink my commitment. I’ve also realized that we need to be willing to totally dispense with those items or habits we wish to get rid of. It’s not enough to kind of commit to stopping while still permitting easy access to those things, while still keeping them around. Too bad for me it took a little shaming to learn that lesson.

“…and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.”
~Romans 13:14 (NASB)
Read more here.

WHOLE30 Meal of the Day (dinner)
Simple Roasted Chicken with Caribbean Roasted Root Veggies & Salad

Recommended Resources:
Functional Dad
MUTU System to Lose Your Mummy Tummy

WHOLE30 Day#1 – What Was I Thinking?

It’s 7:30 on a Friday, and I’m not happy. I have a splitting headache, a pretty wicked case of PMS (or whatever it’s called when your period has actually started) as well as a really weird taste in my mouth, and I’m not all that interested in dinner.

Ordinarily, this is my favorite day of the week. Hubs comes home early from work and helps with baby care. We have “breakfast for dinner,” and we watch a movie. The weekend stretches out before us with the promise of extra sleep and free time as a family. But tonight it’s different because Hubs and I have undertaken the WHOLE30 challenge for the month of April 2016. Neither one of us is in a very good mood, and neither one of us is terribly excited about breakfast for dinner without buttery toast with jelly or pancakes. We’re both having cravings. Hubs is seriously craving sugar. I’m seriously craving artificial sweeteners which I’ll admit to having consumed in ever-increasing quantities over the years – sprinkling those little packets over everything from coffee to fruit to salad (Don’t judge! A little Stevia mixed with dijon makes a mighty fine low-cal honey mustard dressing, but I digress). I’m also yearning for my beloved sugar-free “tropical” flavored popsicles with their neon (artificial) colors and bizarrely satisfying chemically concocted tartness.

As I sit here, pondering my suffering and feeling terribly sorry for myself I happen to glance at my daughter happily playing beside me in her little infant chair. She giggles spontaneously as she tosses her beloved butterfly toy and it makes a noise that delights her. Suddenly, I am reminded by my daughter’s laughter as to why we committed to the WHOLE30, what we were thinking in the first place. We wanted to invest 30 days of effort and discomfort in order to feel better in the long run, in order to build ourselves up and equip ourselves for the long haul of parents. That’s my motivation. That is my intention. I want to be a healthier, more energetic mother. I am willing to do without some things for 30 days. I am willing to do the work to prune away the bad habits and unhealthy junk that I’ve accumulated in order to become a better mom in the long term.

The wise woman builds her house. But the foolish tears it down with her own hands.
~ Proverbs 14:1 (NASB)
Read more here.

For more information on the WHOLE30 plan, check out this link: The WHOLE30

Recommended Resource:
Daily Audio Bible

Top 10 Aging Accelerators

When it comes to aging healthfully and beautiful, it’s all about controlling the controllables. Review this quick list of the most aging habits. I’ll bet you find at least one habit that hits close to home. For me, that’s habits #6, 8 listed below. In fairness, it’s pretty easy to convince yourself that you are or would classified as “an active person” when you work out a few times per week. But working out 4 or 5 times per week and spend the remainder of your time sitting or reclining, you do NOT qualify as an active person. I was not active. Even now, I usually vacillate somewhere between sedentary and lightly active. I don’t have an active job or do heavy labor like a construction worker or an environmental services worker.

Bad Habits that Are Aging You

1. You’re a Couch Potato – Sure, sometimes you can’t make it to the gym. But if you find excuses to avoid exercise on a regular basis, you’re sure to add years to your RealAge. “Burning less than 500 calories a day through some sort of exercise makes your risk for death from any cause extraordinarily high,” says Keith Roach, MD, Sharecare’s chief medical officer. Getting little to no exercise directly increases the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and other health problems. The good news: You’re never too old or out of shape to start exercising. One way to get started: Walk 10 minutes a day and gradually build up to 10,000 steps.

2. You Overdo Happy Hour – According to Dr. Roach, there is an association between moderate alcohol consumption and decreased risk of heart disease. But downing more than two drinks daily (for men; more than one drink for women) puts pressure on your vital organs and can cause health problems like liver disease, high blood pressure and weight gain. Binge drinking (more than four or five drinks at a time) is even worse. If you don’t drink, there’s no need to start. “You’re not giving things up by not being a drinker,” says Roach. “And you’re avoiding problems of excess alcohol, which are much greater than the potential benefits.”

3. You Eat Like You’re Still in College – If burgers, pizza and ice cream are a regular part of your diet, you’re headed for major agers like high cholesterol or high blood pressure. That’s because saturated and trans fats raise LDL cholesterol – the “bad” kind that builds up in arteries, blocking blood flow, damaging blood vessels and causing inflammation. Do your heart a favor by chowing down on more lean protein (like chicken or fish), fruits and veggies. MyPlate recommends that most people get four to five cups of fruits and veggies a day. And don’t forget the whole grains. A diet rich in whole grains can help you avoid diabetes, heart disease and gum disease – not to mention belly fat.

4. You Light Up – We probably don’t have to tell you that smoking cigarettes is one of the worst things you can do for your health. “Smoking has a detrimental effect on almost every cell in the body,” says Mehmet Oz, MD. Smoking increases your risk for heart disease and stroke, as well as lung, blood, bladder, esophageal, kidney, mouth, throat, stomach and uterine cancer. The good news: The health benefits of quitting smoking are almost immediate. Within just 20 minutes after quitting the American Cancer Society says your heart rate and blood pressure drop. As more time goes by you also lower your risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.

5. You Stress Over Everything – We all get stressed out from time to time. But if your stress level is through the roof on a regular basis, — whether from work, family problems or financial troubles — you can bet your health will take a serious hit. Memory loss, high blood pressure, weight gain and a weakened immune system are just some of the ways your body responds to high, chronic stress. Your skin suffers, too. Stress causes free radicals to run wild, breaking down collagen and creating wrinkles. The solution: Find ways to stress less. Regular exercise and relaxing with yoga or meditation can help. But if you find it’s not enough, you may want to consult with a professional counselor.

6. You Sit More than You Stand – Long hours with your butt planted on a chair at work and later on the couch at home can add up to big health problems. Research has linked prolonged sitting to cancer, obesity and type 2 diabetes. Spending time on your bum also negatively affects your blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure and appetite hormone leptin, all of which are biomarkers for obesity and cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, moderate exercise to counteract the effects of sitting all day long doesn’t work. Even if you spend an hour a day exercising, spending just five to six hours a day sitting with few to no breaks may be as bad as smoking an entire pack of cigarettes.

7. You’re UN-happily Married – Wedded bliss can keep you happy and healthy, including lowering your risk of heart disease, cancer and high blood pressure. “It likely has to do with less stress, from the emotional support of a partner to sharing affection and intimacy,” says Roach. But a marriage on the rocks can send stress levels sky high. Who suffers most? A study reported in the journal Health Psychology found that women in unsatisfying marriages have higher blood pressure, cholesterol and BMI. Plus, they suffer more from depression, anxiety and anger.

8. You Mainly See Your Friends Online – You may have a lot of Facebook friends, but if you don’t have close friends or family to connect with in real life, your RealAge will suffer. Not having people to turn to in times of trouble has been associated with poor health. “The worst thing is to feel alone with no one to talk to,” says Roach. On the other hand, a strong social network nurtured by face time with family and friends has been shown to boost your mood, improve your ability to cope with adversity and can strengthen your immune system. If your circle of friends is lacking, consider ways to forge new connections, whether it’s volunteering in your community, joining a book club or teaming up with a group of walkers.

9. You Skimp on Sleep – Are you a chronic sleep skipper? If you get less than six to nine hours a night, your body will let you know it’s not a happy camper. For starters, it throws off your appetite-regulating hormones in ways that make you eat more and gain weight. It’s also been linked to heart disease and stroke. Too little sleep doesn’t do your noggin any favors, either. General brain fog means you’re more forgetful, less alert and apt to make poor decisions.

10. You Neglect Your Smile – Brushing and flossing may not be your favorite activities, but showing your teeth regular love is a RealAge must! Neglecting your pearly whites can lead to gum disease and tooth loss, factors that can lead to inflammation. “Chemicals, bacteria and inflammation in your mouth can predispose you to developing heart disease,” says Roach. Good oral care (brushing and flossing daily and getting regular dental checkups) can boost health – and keep your smile bright.

Grain-free Chocolate Chip Coconut Cookie Bars

Grain-free Chocolate Chip Coconut Cookie Bars

This recipe evolved out of my 2016 New Year’s resolution to decrease our consumption of processed grains, flour and sugar. But just because I’m trying to eat healthier carbs does NOT mean I’m willing to stop eating cookies! I strongly recommend you check out the brilliant recipe blog Chocolate Covered Katie . Katie’s recipes are fun and delicious. Her Sugar Free Deep Dish Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie inspired this recipe.

INGREDIENTS:
1/2 pitted dates
2/3 cup dried plums

2 cans organic garbanzo beans (about 3 cups), drained and rinsed very well
6 oz. unsweetened coconut flakes (about 3/4 cup)
1 cup liquid egg whites
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (preferably organic)
4 tsp. Stevia in the Raw (optional)
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup good quality miniature semi-sweet chocolate chips (at least 70% chocolate)

PROCEDURE:
1. Begin by placing dates and dried plums in a bowl and covering with filtered water. Soak for at least 2 hours.
2. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray 9X13″ pan with nonstick spray (I like nonstick coconut oil spray)
3. Drain water from dried fruits but reserve at least 2 Tbsp. of soaking liquid. Drain garbanzo beans and rinse very well.
4. Place soaked fruits, beans, applesauce, egg whites and 2 Tbsp. soaking liquid in food processor. Pulse on low speed until roughly smooth and combined.
5. Add the next 4 ingredients and process again on low until very smooth.
6. Scoop the mixture into prepared pan then sprinkle the chocolate chips over top the mixture. Gentle stir to spread the ships throughout the batter. Spread the
batter evening throughout pan and place in middle of preheated oven.
7. Bake for about 20 minutes or until edges are browned and middle is set. Allow to cool before cutting.

NUTRITION CONTENT
(per bar, 1/20 recipe)
Calories: 136 calories
Fat: 5 grams fat
Fiber: 3.7 grams fiber
Digestible Carbs: 17.6 grams
Sodium: 263 mg. sodium
Protein: 4.24 grams protein

(Recipe Total)
Calories: 2719
Fat: 100.8 grams
Fiber: 73.4 grams
Digestible Carbs: 351.5 grams
Sodium: 5,261.8 mg
Protein: 84.7 grams

Wishing you and your family a beautifully wise 2016!

5 Morning Habits for Happier, Healthier Days & Nights

5 Habits for a Healthier You

Habit #1: Mark Your Wakeup Time to Determine Your Bedtime
All healthy adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. Do not kid yourself into believing you need less than 7 hours. I personally need 8.5 hours or I feel really crappy the next day. That doesn’t make me weak or less of a person. It just means I have to plan to get sufficient shut-eye in order to be productive, especially with a newborn in the house. If you’re getting less than 7 hours sleep now or you just feel tired all the time, here’s how you begin:
determine when you absolutely must wakeup. Count backwards 7 hours from that time and go to bed at that time. If you must, DVR your fav TV programs that you’ll miss in order to go to bed earlier. Trust me. You will enjoy them more binge-watching anyway. If you still feel tired, go to bed 15-30 minutes earlier each night until you feel refreshed. That’s the amount of sleep you need per night.

Habit #2: Coffee, Glorious Coffee – Okay to me, this is a no-brainer. I’ve been drinking coffee since I was 16 years-old. Thank God for all the recent research touting Coffee’s health benefits(since I plan to keep right on drinking it). Of course, green tea is even healthier if you happen to be so inclined. Me, I’ll stick with my beloved java.

Habit #3: A Breath of Fresh Air – Consider a short (3-5 minute) walk first thing in the morning while you coffee brews (or while that Keurig warms up). Enjoy your cup of coffee onto the porch, patio or balcony (or if you read ahead, you’ll see that taking a quick walk outside while your coffee brews is the best plan).

Habit #4: Get Some AM Physical Activity
Probably the best thing you can do in the morning is take a short walk outside. If you happen to have dogs, they will definitely appreciate a a quick AM stroll.
If at all possible, walk with another person, especially if it’s dark in the mornings where you live. Here are a few more tips to keep you walking safely: Safe Walking Tips

I find it’s easiest to squeeze in a few short bouts of exercise (especially strength training) spread throughout the day. There are a few things that are easily completed before breakfast or before that first cup of coffee. For me, the most effective strategy is to try to do 3 bursts before leaving the bathroom area in the morning (oh c’mon! I know your first out-of-bed pitstop in the morning is the bathroom).
Here are a few of my favorite quick strength bursts that can be accomplished standing in front of the bathroom sink:
– 50 Squats
– 10-25 Biceps Curls (stash some free weights under your sink or on a shelf in the linen closet)
– 10-25 Military Press or Clean-and-Press. Here’s a how-to video:

– 10-25 Overhead Triceps Extension with Free Weights. Video link:

Be sure to keep those elbows close to your head and tighten your core muscles to support your tummy and back!

– 25 Lunges per Leg
– 25 Reverse Lunges per Leg
– 10-50 Push-ups (if doing modified “knee” push-ups, be sure to put those knees on a bath mat or rug for support)

Habit #5: Eat Some Walnuts
Here are a few yummy recipes using walnuts:
Raw Date + Nut Balls (gluten-free, vegan, raw)
No-bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Bars (vegan, gluten-free)
Crunchy Walnut-crusted Salmon (paleo, gluten-free)
Fresh Broccoli & Apple Salad with Walnuts (just plain yummy!)

Quick Hitter of the Day – Love This, Try That

Cream Eyeshadow Switch Out

I love cream eyeshadows. They really work well on my dry skin. And, for some reason I seem to be able to create prettier looks and to blend and smooth the colors better when using my fingertips. Guess my brush application techniques need some work. The current crop of cream/gel shadows offers some tremendous choices in all price ranges.

One of my all-time favorite cream shadows is MAKE UP FOREVER’s Aqua Cream. This is the first such shadow I ever tried. The Taupe color is among the most gorgeous neutral shades I’ve ever encountered. It works create for a single, all-over look and is flattering on most if not all skin tones.

Taupe

MUF’s Taupe Aqua Cream

Alas, this favorite is fairly pricey at $23 for 0.21oz. And, surprisingly, it’s kinda hard to find – often sold out online and in Sephora stores. (I say surprisingly because Sephora owns MUF’s line and should, to my mind, be able to keep their products in stock. But I digress….).

Enter today’s standout duplicate – Maybelline EYESTUDIO Color Tattoo 24HR Cream Gel Shadow in “Bad to the Bronze.” What an awesome drugstore product! Nearly identical cushy, squishy texture as the MUF product and the same sheer-out capabilities. Neither product tends to migrate under eyes or to crease, especially when applied over a standard shadow primer. And neither the Maybelline nor the MUF offerings include too much glitter, trending more toward a flattering shimmer versus disco sparkle.

Color = Bad to the Bronze

Maybelline Color Tattoo 24HR Cream Gel Shadow

Incidentally, the Color Tattoo comes with 0.14oz. of product (roughly 2/3 the amount you get from the MUF product) and retails for $5.29 at both Target and Wal-Mart. CVS, Walgreens and ULTA currently list product prices at $6.99 each. And all of the retailers often offer buy one, get one 50% off Maybelline products (basically resulting in a 25% discount on each if you buy two products at once for a cost of roughly $5.24 each). That means, if you purchase two Color Tattoo shadows at once, you’d get about 1 & 1/3 the amount of product at a savings of $12.50. Keep in mind too that buying in this way may actually result in better product performance because these types of shadows tend to dry up with usage and exposure to air. So having a new and unopened pot of shadow can actually mean longer product life than if you had a larger pot of 0.28oz. I’ve actually experienced that drying with the MUF product but never with Maybelline’s version. I believe that’s why.

Hope you find this helpful. Happy finger painting!

KarenHD

Daily Beauty Wisdom

Walk in wisdom : grow in beauty: live in love

Beauty Product Reviews