tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36890792036734292412024-02-09T07:02:42.969-08:00THRIVING WIVESPassion Creates Strength. Strength is Beauty. Strive to Thrive.thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.comBlogger200125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-40999386149298479202021-04-09T09:30:00.001-07:002021-04-09T09:30:00.236-07:00Recipe - Mexican Corn on the Cob<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7oDxPTONXEfoLagizT9bqP28Uioy-3d69zuRZCcazQaIM4kO_G7d4WkaIWzenzJhoeg7MSPfD1NiKXfB56Q9YLDlKJEuf6SgIvPWlnKe09RUNeA-JUxvOQYd6VTHbf2u7gqQ4Uv5UiI/s640/Title+Corn.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<br />
Corn on the cob is one of my favorite warm weather treats. I love it on the BBQ, in the oven, buttery or spicy. As long as I have my floss at the ready, I really could eat it all the time. When I <a href="http://damndelicious.net/2014/04/18/mexican-corn-cob/#comment-101668" target="_blank">found this super easy recipe for Mexican corn on the cob,</a> I decided to try it for myself , thank you <a href="http://damndelicious.net/" target="_blank">Damn Delicious</a>, you've done it again!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3BxDNuAx3o943BkbFNt7fRlM1Cc8kO_PAeW-sXuheNkt7psdKv_wTIogN_mOInbA8efU8UmfWhLT1nwB2B5cepbbfHtMVvauWeyQiv270O4H7ZkPVPaDJBoiY6NY3TXisilN0soAN65I/s640/Mexican+Corn+Title.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To get started, keep preheat your oven to 350 degrees and throw your corn in, husks and all. Cook for about 45 minutes or until tender.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Once cooked, take out your roasted corn and prepare to take off the hot husks. I recommend doing this outside or over a paper bag...it is messy.<br />
<br />
With the husks and weird stringy things husks leave behind all removed, it is time to get your assembly line ready: butter, chili powder, cilantro, cheese and lime juice.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzSkgCJX5ylAQJOhkBmw_B3aj_E4bEqyR6Pka81Q6igqcQRHA_yfze0MXjVZZU2vjFm30M4ZuQXHFNUppKCiPGsUF4D9SFl7qYC87p_KOY-LlKVjXcmO96VTQXeANVZFl_wrKi9phIIc/s1600/P1060690.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Rub on as much butter as your little heart desires. I like to rub it on and let it pool on my plate for good measure.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL6O69cH4QBEEXhTSj699w9Ua4INYUmyKP_aA0fok7RsX3DO6zRgxwaVNBmoEPfQaeLrXfeTCf7oCe1LyQVT4Uq9iWByWr_75Tocdxd0n9Mo1NRFKoMy792lD_dBTNFO_BJzmNSadjx80/s640/P1060697.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
With the butter sinking in to each kernel, go ahead and sprinkle on the chili powder to your taste and sprinkle on some cilantro...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMWK_Z8EAjK-_SPLrSEqjNzgwCjPUbmgch74w886Fq6fzXeSfobNvAzwhcqU7z6e3-uR3OtpCvKcaupAKxy8FbAmi06lGTnHjblBmhPO8xHJjgyhGtTR4GgxZT7oTAMrdWxsoqC4z0czs/s1600/P1060698.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
The grated cheese...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_CLM8tYvFbU7sX34Lx-ilIJbs5h_JN1zY-X_XTRnhQJE5Z6giuqRO1W6NMmC78K_hy0P5U98dZNkHb72T-wFG6PB6ahFXzZIEHfUImsYlq_UKbMlt5BSHCh398Ed9MesGiDGkUbG2sU/s1600/P1060702.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Then pour on the fresh lime juice...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm_fOEEjEBbuSMSghJB3I4fOvtggf4urGz5MBjeC8EgCzkfDs30ihyphenhyphenGED_pqDDHS7vk8M45FBocvC2XSdBeZyV2Au1RDZzvdYtbpEfCwo6COOzO4nYNk9QO2wEvLuKz45ZO6TgELS2Z4E/s320/P1060686.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Serve and eat immediately. The hot, tangy, cheesy flavors are too much, each bite leaves you wanting more!!! Serve as a side for your favorite Mexican meal or eat it as the main event. Either way, it is sure to please.<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlKoCxoIRFpZ2oSln12wWXQTy5lrWup6hfy1vQx6TAU3YBrvMbuvlART0Vh6y3hzYb4ShNDLc6RiVc14Vgi05WAyV2blGIIhXVE0UhG3tLYbgoArh_Vd08poUkZXQysJu6Z4CLbi7ZcA0/s640/P1060703.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
What are your favorite corn on the cob recipes? Have any that are worth trying this summer?<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
</div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-8108354592786605312020-07-01T09:00:00.001-07:002020-07-01T09:00:10.737-07:00Let's HIIT It!<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2KeMYbmTZLvsMr-WQUACJvxcLu4-08IYHoKGEmKVhjaO35sMC3MHtlKR5iJEdirEMaX3VgEKjKM9Dv_GJvDQ_o16F2zXf6aqqu0OzS3AQFD4quogi2ckOPTy8J0dwBY1UyHS43QAM-BQ/s640/HIIT+title.png" width="640" /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: black;">I </span></span><span style="color: black;">welcome<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.thriving-wives.com/2013/05/cardio-circuit.html">cardio</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>with wiiiide open arms. The harder the
better. The sweatier the better. The more intense...the better. While I know
some Thriving Wives out there may shy away from all that, I just can't seem to
grasp why. I mean, I know I am a bit "loco", but I still think we all
should want some sort of intense workout that leaves us completely
dead/rejuvenated all at the same time...no?<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">Well, helping
people fall in love with fitness all the while motivating and inspiring is exactly why
I became a fitness instructor and personal trainer in the first place. I take
great joy in sharing the latest research and trends of a healthy, active
lifestyle with anyone who will listen. I have seen incredibly results from
those who have taken my advice and have truly accepted that to be "fit"
is not to jump on the latest diet fad, but to change your entire outlook on
life and how you live it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">As a busy mommy of
four little boys, I am constantly on the move. We run, climb and
play most of our days and I make sure to close ALL my rings on my Apple Watch daily, but for me, that still isn't enough. I need more. So, I always make sure to get in my own crazy sweat session each morning. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_PwbXn1LOsHWw1PecnqqxJa7TUo1Vop64OR9xrW-qeqDbCzsshtElYTsy_IMHUv-FU8BoGVfimyAidvQjZJxkzD5LJTxkcBRNmL5-abdhyJqPtNGCCY7mCNqWYzSW_UUoCLqAb_QwA0/s1600/HIIT+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_PwbXn1LOsHWw1PecnqqxJa7TUo1Vop64OR9xrW-qeqDbCzsshtElYTsy_IMHUv-FU8BoGVfimyAidvQjZJxkzD5LJTxkcBRNmL5-abdhyJqPtNGCCY7mCNqWYzSW_UUoCLqAb_QwA0/s640/HIIT+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: black;">I strive to get at least 20-60 minutes of (high intensity) aerobic
exercise <b>at least</b> 3-4 times a week. I also include strength training on
alternating days to ensure I am maintaining a complete physical activity
program for both muscular and cardiorespiratory health. While that seems like
a lot, once you make this routine a part of your life it seems like nothing.
Especially when you can knock out a serious sweat session in 20 minutes!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">Slightly
intrigued? Well, read on..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span style="color: black;">Where should
you start?</span></b><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">Before beginning
any new training, you of course want to make sure you are in good health and
have been cleared by a doctor for any preexisting conditions. Also, before you
take on any<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>serious<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></i>new workouts with high levels of
intensity (like HIIT), I, as a professional, would suggest establishing a base
level of fitness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span style="color: black;">What is a base
level of fitness?</span></b><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">A base fitness
level is<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>consistent</b> (yes,
that means regular) aerobic training at least 3-5 days a week at a moderate
level of intensity. If that means a brisk walk with the stroller, great. A jog,
hike, bike ride or fitness class will all do. You know you have reached level
by taking a simple "talk test", trying to carry on a conversation
during exercise...with difficulty. That is key. You do not want to be chatting
it up easily, that means you aren't quite there. In an effort to avoid any
injuries, you always want to make sure your body is ready to take on a new
workout....Safety first as they say...<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bvbWyMgtZJlYlKt7OdjAhbUmAxVjG_z1cbPgUUkZoIpGiEIaOcmYBJAsfpHWZupBAGla_EFABbROqzNdP7CGXu6JRn-9P4dYCyqKIU0khM3sGztVcQx3_PQLQd7PEi6z9YzL9qBjlNQ/s640/HIIT+5.jpg" width="426" /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: black;">What would a HIIT workout look like?</span></b><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">These workouts are
super easy to do, with just about any exercise as they are all about time
intervals. The whole goal of the workout is to push it HARD, then recover. Push
it HARD again, recover. On and on until the time is up. Yes, you will be out of
breath. Yes, you may feel like you are can't go on. But I assure you, the more
you do it, the sooner you will see results. And as soon as you start feeling
the amazing benefits of this exercise routine you too will be hooked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">For your
intervals, I suggest the intense work periods range from 30 seconds to 2
minutes and are performed at 80% to 95% of a your estimated maximal heart rate
(the maximum number of times your heart will beat in a minute without
overexerting yourself).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">The recovery
periods may last equally as long as the work periods (but can be less) and are
usually performed at 40% to 50% of a person’s estimated maximal heart
rate. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">The workout
continues with the alternating work and totaling 20-60 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">I typically stick to one
minute on, one minute off or 30 seconds on 10 seconds off. Really depends
on my mood. I can always adjust to ensure I am still pushing myself but not
overexerting. For example, high knees for a minute (concentrating on good
form and a tight tummy) then straight into plank for one minute, which I would
consider the recovery. You could also just sprint down your driveway for one
minute then slowly walk/jog back for recovery ten times...the possibilities are
endless!<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; orphans: 2; text-align: center; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvUmRT9mpSGwhgDIC0QNVh3R9LLGCcnWnyzz5B2HG1MlWKitoybiQkVfPET1chEzvZz276uqzTSA_yLkOg1PdL2KEdnHaM8pZYFdMReogpb1fuHQnO8ULfDU-0tTHl9m5Djjnr41OfWc/s640/HIIT+4.png" width="366" /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span style="color: black;">Why would I (or
anyone for that matter) want to do this rather than a 30 minute jog?</span></b><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">Well, because this
is going to work you harder....<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: center; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<i><span style="color: black;">"HIIT workouts can be performed on all exercise modes,
including cycling, walking, swimming, aqua training, elliptical cross-training,
and in many group exercise classes. HIIT workouts provide similar fitness
benefits as continuous endurance workouts, but in shorter periods of time. This
is because HIIT workouts tend to burn more calories than traditional workouts,
especially after the workout."</span></i><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: center; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: center; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<i><span style="color: black;">"The post-exercise period is called “EPOC”, which
stands for excess post-exercise oxygen consumption. This is generally about a
2-hour period after an exercise bout where the body is restoring itself to
pre-exercise levels, and thus using more energy. Because of the vigorous
contractile nature of HIIT workouts, the EPOC generally tends to be modestly
greater, adding about 6 to 15% more calories to the overall workout energy
expenditure". - <a href="https://www.acsm.org/docs/brochures/high-intensity-interval-training.pdf">ACSM</a></span></i><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: center; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"> And, #boom,
there you have it.<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; orphans: 2; text-align: center; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKNx74dP47pfItmVAIkmSiNK07za5suTg3K_5Y-SNEby6AHLtcIWhZBYB6PdVGDfpQ3Oa9L3Fre533BQHOmK25D1M1N3F0YQoKHMPyVB2Msnpdr3BZqrpXTReAMcEc9ntoezH7UZRd1U/s640/HIIT+3.jpg" width="640" /> </o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: black;">Hmmmm, it sounds worth it, but I think I will die...will I die?</span></b><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">Well, that depends
on your definition of "death". If yours includes thoughts of
quitting, being out of breath, muscles burning, wanting to scream out as you
force yourself to push through...then yes. You will die. But what a sweet
death it will be. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">If you want to
make the most of your workout, see results and feel amazing...then HIIT is defs
worth a shot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">Want more
information or help on developing an introductory HIIT workout for yourself?
Please do not hesitate to email thrivingwives@gmail.com. I am always happy to
assist any TW in getting motivated to take on a fit and healthy life!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;">Have you tried the
HIIT craze or are you not feeling anything with the word "intense"
included in it?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: center; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<i><span style="color: black;">Strive to thrive, </span></i><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: center; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<i><span style="color: black;">Em</span></i><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-47864609987388136502020-06-10T09:00:00.000-07:002020-06-10T09:00:08.971-07:00Recipe - Oh So Easy Ice Cream Sammies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKohGozz7gj5oeMwT949hqE3r8NZWClhJOjsUgmbgOIHmVplgTm1ErqCR1D0mCH-yhatK9pykweDuNJFTVwZ7vSwqqkEuRjrp7nkwaGcy51r5cDeWf8j99qXXfvQCx6zNCXAUf7ZvC9wE/s640/Ice+Cream+Sammie+Title.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Summer is here! And for me, summer is a time to eat ice cream. Well, who am I kidding...any season is a time to eat ice cream. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="542" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA75DnLrc1ZMzJiKF18SSCjG-oHliXyVOr7zaKzm8Gpzl0EwJ70GpeqU-QOuuduHOj4_3LpIjikwH7Ljgds9JnxgrG92UfL329ur3KQ9Fxlr7GuiRlzarSTgTc5Bdvusop-3lDCxbgLB0/s640/P1060731.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Since our house... A) Loves summer B) Loves ice cream and C) Loves cookies...the boys asked if we could make our very own ice cream cookie sandwiches. My answer, of course!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3al7ISn_epmY3TR8JTU9SLqr8G2tnK_p866GTxeQc-UVstVWRAQAVU7rywyoPNiqpLJ-1RT0rTFgbzZkPiCQB8fI8VMLmZpPFf1BLYOJQF0LSWenxf4uJOGC6cg24C44LdnhGTtXd5Us/s640/P1060730.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
We baked some cookies the day before, made some ice cream using one of my favorite <a href="http://www.thriving-wives.com/2016/05/7-appliances-that-changed-my-life.html" target="_blank">appliances</a> and set up our work space. Cookies, ice cream and of course, assorted sprinkles!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6yie1mhqsYJ_xmXez9Lv5vY48aHIxhqB6M_ewrwb6uZ64W580zXuNlA0xPwD85sXFV3PubZNatkns1LfKJWeOicmiLryQUKUYTHby9t9K_BGg3XSOqRcxcf4YV4AoyfJFaekpGxeQd8/s640/P1060732.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I laid down some wax paper so after the boys put them together, they could roll in sprinkles and then wrap them up in wax paper to be stored for later.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG12OQM_ow9bp0sRBGz6dzoBbGwSrp3VJW5ZVz78d6hILZio5jdD8eW8k9IZb6IaZZcFq9zzO4w6p6cu_UzKvvyDeP7iADdiWVZZ1-kUzXO2aktjHXz1eJ5MjrMx7QM-eSihNR7QNcdiI/s640/P1060733.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
I scooped out some fresh ice cream, placed on the top cookie and the boys squished it down to perfection. The goal was to have a slight ice cream ooze...all the better to sprinkle with!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQEzG48YrVwwLzPd0sgCng4uu3cif5s_hMags2WMS6qxjk0_q8z5LO23rODwvnnxjvcu99lRX8tVKvRmo5syWLLP79FUsKB8SJhMSY9HOntGR5GGTgfL2ZJiV4mSxd1zY6T3huN7weS6s/s640/P1060734.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Next up, they choose a sprinkle and just rolled the ice cream ooze to make sure each part was evenly blasted with a pop of sugary color!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX5okCd1NqGAb4ayiHyd-f6uQzdQl2qSzkt8AKSBBJCiNwIJX9q1QAnk1N0SS8N3HpDfodXWLOlGwzZG8VHmHSIcOem9O9MAZB6lwj1ou9L0nOQrJpOsR8twL4MPgqj6XKRBng1lJaTB8/s640/P1060735.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXy9UeV_eIisGr02QCpRTb5Vl8oKXksEMVHHXTjNWY54h2mW7D6Q26nJKaQv54OksbKUCDPk-ZTHqPCmMsYoB7z6m5ThIMiVAQKYa6g8-5FzxkOXqY74dsfOiz2UmhGfo8s7flA4lR-34/s640/P1060736.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Next, wrap the wax paper around the cookie, secured with a colorful sticker and stored away in the freezer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaUSkQRfxEMbmenejcxSRJWCSJaZdCIs7_hVY6Tdr9G3AjuwlsN5A8I0DdeVwjBAIXfsicam5xsYBtAvX2LsnrXKTVeh-3JjxigLoh1RnCDjeEsFvv4XoTDI_GCGnCvFHEQhxWRiLIuDs/s640/P1060737.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
So easy and SO fun! Cookie, ice cream, sprinkle, WRAP!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmjo5PPLluXMj87ukrkHtSUNCf-LZPkUMiKx9WiKLydytnMy3rlcWtGylgKyJEoQrf0RyB6EMwMMNXZZu4EAfbE19S71e-HfSBirkiffXxt-2n03sbRFnDQ88kNcxQPw_58pLavOULVH4/s640/P1060738.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdhyphenhyphenHw5Q9kgqlyjXHwizO16aWam_KE8rnOGS-4tpgjiAMLf513aLPQggnJFkPOllVgh-byGUahfMKSwCI0ymvSuANXG4zkbQKFkn6P7hDSVx4HoN3r2YvZTYmxMZrg1gs7ECiFxDHhPs/s640/P1060739.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
We now have sweet desserts for those late summer nights by the pool!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAlZ0YDpIYegS0S85B16AkjrfF01PbGX2gPHSXoz4V75PinW3OUlX4XhlLeG8axf8ZtjJDb3_3NRpdOWf2UxNPUJyVF93Wi2V7fYau9tKm9Ae-aTBQ9m1_NUt_-sX-OlzY-r-_QmO3UtM/s640/P1060740.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Now all I want to do is make all sorts of different kinds! I am thinking a chocolate, chocolate chip cookie with Mexican chocolate ice cream? Who's with me?!<br />
<br />
What suggestions do you have? Any sammies you wish you could eat..like now?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to Thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-13584263950780038422020-05-02T09:00:00.000-07:002020-05-02T09:00:00.853-07:007 Ways to Keep the Marital THRIVE ALIVE in an Ever Changing World <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTKM1ilu1ADB1bIPObo2eZ7zQkKWP066IsQnk8OoSSuDqcnQciKu7qTDLCXknGZj6mHAhNfnhYY98p_-uA4ChHDJCw-nA5dfNfWwke-CSBohOgBl87Ee1Cgm_yassy0OhLSJ0sni3POk/s640/Thrive+live.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
It is a crazy time and one filled with a looooooooooot of family time.<br />
<br />
Not only during a global pandemic, but life in general is constantly changing, so it should come as no surprise that your relationships would change as well. From meeting someone, to dating, becoming exclusive and hopefully committing to that person, you change all along the way and you may not even realize it.<br />
<br />
The b*$!& slap that a marriage takes after having kids can often make or break couples. Pregnancy makes a usual rock-star of a Thriving Wife sometimes limited (the exhaustion alone is deadly) which only ends with the addition of a (wonderful and perfect) human joining the family dynamic. Don't even get me started on quarantine.<br />
<br />
Amongst the confusion, frustration and uncertainty, It is important that we take a moment to observe our life in slow motion so that we can keep the THRIVE alive.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7l2_b4Jt2gs79QmJzfqtl41rDmlOAcXvhK6KqAnZvz3203wKMBZJvNvaE6ZW0UEPmeRA8CCWg3nvcWWp1b2_WBRFCPInChGcdD3B01oHTWXl2HqUAsATFjW39nnp8PmiKsIr18ilL27w/s640/I+DO.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Easier said then done? Yes. But here are 7 tips to keep your relationship honest, open and to help you along the way.</div>
<br />
<b>1. Communicate:</b> First and foremost, talk to each other and talk A LOT. Don't let the other one get off the hook with the whole, "Nothing's wrong" bit, that is a bunch of crap. You know it, I know it, so cut it. It's obvious something is wrong, so either come out with it or get over it. Discuss what you are feeling in the moment, hear each other, validate each other and make an effort to address the others feelings/improve in the future.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Know when to give space.</b> If the other person refuses to discuss what's on their mind, then leave it and them alone. I know my patience runs very thin when my TH wants to pretend nothing is wrong when it is so totally clear that something is up. So, I just say, "Ok, well I am getting a different vibe from you which is telling me something is wrong, so when you are ready to talk I will be ________" and peace out. Sometimes no attention and some space is what the other person needs.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3coxit19RD18SF0jjJoZ8Y7xtf42jxZ384dVb_YBb8ke6Z9aMWogZmGoGJiDOcW47UqBbgjTCAPbQiQJQYsX0ePP9oWOy2MVSGYf9k2B8_KsNeCiMMP3Xpt83cPzuKIlO4D0ACmEXWM/s1600/propose.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<b>3. Be patient and understanding. </b> Allow the other person to work it out in their own way. I know my coping strategies are much different from my TH. I like to work out until I can't move, he likes to sit and drink a beer in peace. We know that about each other and honor what the other needs. We help each other with the kids so we can have that "alone time" to reset and regroup.<br />
<br />
<b>4. Welcome changes and go with the flow. </b>With change comes adaptation. Learn to adapt to the changes life throws you. My TH and I have gotten to know and appreciate each other so much more now that we have a house full of little boys. Our lives have changed dramatically but we have always been on the same page and see each other as our biggest supporter and teammate. We definitely have our moments of weakness where the world seems to be ending (ok, that is more my take as a I am a serious drama queen), but we always end up working together and working through everything we encounter...together.<br />
<br />
<b>5. Make time for each other.</b> This is a BIGGIE. Once you have kids you lose a sense of who you are and start to be seen only as mommy or daddy. It is incredibly important to remember how it all started and how those precious little people came to be...you two. Even if it is a small hug in the kitchen while making dinner, or a taking a moment to collapse in laughter together as your kids have full blown melt downs over fruit snacks, stay connected. Spend some time each evening talking about something besides kid stuff after everyone is in bed and make plans to go out alone at least once a month (at least). Don't stop being each other's best friend no matter how crazy life gets.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcUzCPxjN6_YdCXXvEzJ8uCY2Ukz2IK-Mu1KrxwnIF8sQNWYQ55B9B16rCnCYwUiKg94_8MTraNQZEVPe78ryIhj5qi6gLcbpv-pGol_3HFZJ1CeGKUl-Jwb5s0tykn8fHECbueNwkYhI/s1600/Grass.jpg" /></div>
<b>6. Never stop trying. </b> I love my TH more than is possible to express, but I never stop trying. Even though I have more than my fair share of crazy moments, I always remember to thank him for letting me have them and supporting me along the way. I never give up on working to make our relationship stronger and welcome any challenges knowing we will get through it together.<br />
<br />
<b>7. Remember why you fell in love</b>. When the stressful times come (weddings, homes, job changes, financial struggles, babies, babies and more babies) take a moment to step back from it all and remember who you are in this with and why. You chose your best friend, your partner and (hopefully) the love of your life. You can do anything if you work together, acknowledge the problem, and focus on a solution. Remember why you fell in love with this person and why you chose to share your life with them.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Marriage is constantly changing and will continue to do so. Instead of growing and changing alone, grow and change together.<br />
<br />
A very wise Thriving Wife once told me, "We had to remember the "me" mattered as much as the "us" and always work to keep balance"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Keep staying safe (and sane)!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-58534680164940222302020-02-19T09:00:00.000-08:002020-02-19T09:00:00.532-08:005 Tips to Thrive at Legoland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcglHflqmkiGbNRxnVEvzW4H3m2lmH9AuXgDqrNETtI-S-ERR-F3K0Wuds2HvIxQ75JajgDKAyXyl9qS-6OsSJYHk6Vq3H0c2C8VQJ2xENAiSyBZ7GrK1WR0LtAtijjihdZpCntz9t_0U/s640/LL.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Heading to any amusement park tends to be super overwhelming. The crowds, the lines and soon-to-be exhausted/constant borderline tantrum throwing kids often leaves many of us wondering...why am I here again?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, we all know why we are really there. Watching our kids light up at every turn, giggle with glee and experience every magical moment for the first time makes all that chaos worth it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Disneyland for us is a annual treat as the preparation and recovery are enough to last the rest of the year. Our go-to amusement park of choice as So-Cal residents is <a href="https://www.legoland.com/california/">Legoland!</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyGONopocwigLyJ9oTjmDuuW5jcNV1tDUHrNb-5cyrNLwqIkS4E9sHloNkDp_X83r7tE5FMOp5FfhQBZOIOXO_LN7Umfg1MVF-omHP3Xl0yZIoZIHldhVm1vkUvOshkTeCAE2r2MezVs/s640/IMG_1035.jpg" width="358" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A mere 45 minutes from our house and full of exciting things for my little boys to do. From water, to rides, lego stations to play structures, it really is perfect for small kids. It is actually probably better for smaller kids as it seems the "big kid" stuff is pretty limited. Since my guys are the PRIME age to enjoy such a heavenly spot it only made sense that we be season ticket holders so we could enjoy all that fun and dodge the crowds vowing ONLY to go on non busy weekdays. Why wait in any lines if you don't have to?</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Not only does Legoland have the main park but it also has a full water park (beyond the super cool features within the park) and an impressively interactive aquarium (the food court there is quite good too). While it is great for kids, it is also great for the family budget as well. <a href="https://www.legoland.com/california/legoland-california/buy-tickets/tickets/">Season tickets </a> (Gold Annual) are only $199, which is a lot of money, don't get me wrong. BUT, that price includes, parking ($20 per trip), access to the main park, water park AND aquarium...ALL YEAR! Not to mention 20% off on all food and merchandise. You can guess what the boys got this year for Christmas from Mommy & Daddy! Plus they are ALWAYS running deals, we snagged ours this year for only $99 each!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We bought a play pass the year before (pay for a day get the rest of the year free, which equated to about 6 months) but it was only for the park and didn't include parking. I mean, honestly the upgrade pays for itself just with parking costs alone! ANNNNDD ( I know, it doesn't stop) you get all sorts of perks too, like a free hotel stay, free one day passes for a guest of your choice for all pass holders and so much more! Man...maybe I should work in their sales department. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, now that I have you hooked and you want to go..let me share my top five tips. While these were created specifically for Legoland, they really apply to ALL amusement parks in general. As long as you are prepared for anything you are sure to THRIVE!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlxQdapMJEnCSzU9nlTEWXY1-3FcdeNtB8I2Yqv-MjRoKXeoBbLP6jpuZGA86wqaMzIzmnfwH9Yde-XOz2wMz6jjNT35h8VG06n4l7XfrkcmpcZdOjvpZ07ip_d5_l5Nd8RQDf9y_TmU/s640/IMG_0682.jpg" width="358" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>1. PREPARATION IS KEY.</b> I know, it seems super annoying to bring all that "crap", but being left in a pickle without what you need, to me, is way worse. Pack more than you think (an additional pair of shorts, an extra pair of shoes...screaming about ouchie feet sucks, an extra shirt for you, hats, sweatshirts, sunscreen, wipes....the list goes on)...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqcCBX4FGQn4shpptdecbZfW_9OOhXd_t5v9V7UZjAPtgfMNHyyJU26JqZP_GP51rlqiCyYCOLvenYSF3ibY4ifTvEsQ6vWPSFbHBcIwyi9DiHeLlCU53diwIdUHRGJ7u_n_v9Hc7Mtko/s640/IMG_0693.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>2. BRING YOUR WHEELS.</b> Even if you think your kids are too old to ride in a stroller (my big boys often refuse) at least you have a "locker on wheels" (Thanks Mrs. A). Since these kid friendly parks have stroller parking everywhere, it is great to be able to stash all you need and wheel it wherever you go. Throw that diaper bag, backpack, snack bag and extra clothes bag on that thing and roll out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLU8TlzkMyB6nf6eA2BP39ylUCbW5KvnAoMADrVefZ0TGb08CPthoFIzeLUQWFBz69fDGrNX58zhplmj6K7ioJaDIwirm-LFMJTBcpgnx0npnGCjURpBDBWDfT_GswW4ngAtwkc_FLBhE/s640/P1060301.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFE-J4zVg3VYqZjiIhDQ2KtOlkcTyLDECAGlPGpc6nCzY0VHR0_HCTKeZDPK45WHYYQmVfW5YILy1VOQrc7OuiGLWZhGGPkS3BPkt06asE0H1hRQLhJPLLaV9TtoppqzMTE4ZndHtGzUE/s640/IMG_1068.JPG" width="358" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RJK6nFijud5AmpWqZTVcjSRDAWQchBro19sHjU2wtiJ00mPFB1RpOuPZ1AYWdtvfBPdy0qKwp1PdoZXj5ji6DepWxF4s6h0W_9eZ7kVuRp_OtQcn2kWBbpdo-kmefl4BDnjAWhy4ZeM/s640/IMG_1069.JPG" width="358" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>3. SNACK CENTRAL.</b> My kids eat literally every second of every day. It is imperative that I have snacks to last at least a week...yes for one day. They know they get a "treat" when they are there, but I would rather be prepared with their favorite go-to foods for snacks and lunch. Not only am I saving money, but I can toss them a snack-stacker while in line, no problemo. While coolers are checked upon entry, they only thing they are looking for is "outside food"...like Del Taco.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenp9ZMf_7VJe6e7Mi5PxSyrUetxaskD05ZicfrRc1dQtFR9AGvu6BibNOblsX9G1ARXVMjRe_hRmw5LiYRDJRdIIHzqhYR1BOaj5ZzRXaf7u0bpjESt6x5qcUC92Uhsn42zqUfeF46XY/s640/IMG_0684.jpg" width="358" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHfWBoAVwaa80cn3s-VGJJG-DFvqlsAl65n22M3mxGYG-AviE9OyL1jix-hME8t5_0p8IvBA-d24qvXApbdz3Y9oFWastX7scKBomYe4s7rGJ97l0tcn0de7vpWqQqpruBugXSRTFvtSk/s640/IMG_1479.jpg" width="358" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhTmS_wD-nGjNFqU1AuOL2qo3xiZRzda_EAd5giEX4_XiZteO-vKpxkMcr_pIRg2KDn4p1lmyHOJvIDG7BBUrt7DFIKqOySeUSp9R5XcdLULDhX9-oh5x0Xhcq4VIlshy-SxB6g7Aal8/s640/IMG_1482.jpg" width="358" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>4. WET & DIRTY IS THE NEW BLACK.</b> One of my favorite things about Legoland is all the water features. With two awesome splash pads and an entire play structure filled with water fun, you might as well just have your kids wear their swim suits to the park; I know I do. Between the water play, fossil station (huge sandbox filled with Dino bones...perfect for my scoop loving boys) and about a million other lego building stations, your kids are going to be filthy, soaked and oh so happy. I bring a change of clothes for after their water play/digging is over, but for most of the day they are running wild in their swim trunks!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF86hu1vWgRTZrpvRvF_FxNiWFdv7uPEOrcFDDMgugPvyoTyXrvpEgHrfRjTO865Y-0O-h6UzVqQSu9k7HEjMNX6xXUF61TUg0Fd-JPFQar2PZA3r8uxnOoiH1Hz0235QWpS0o2S_ZApk/s640/P1060303.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>5. KEEP THE GOODS CLOSE TO THE HIP.</b> Since my stroller is bogged down with my daily essentials for all three kids, myself and usually my own Thriving Mommy (she of course never misses a trip as she is an essential part to our Lego crew...), I do not suggest leaving anything of real value on your stroller when you go on rides and park it. Sure, if someone wants to wheel off with my expensive stroller, Vera Bradley collection of bags filled with goodies...go for it. But my credit cards, ID, keys and phone? No way sucker, that is always on me. With my pouch snug on my hip I am always ready for hands free fun with the most essential items closely monitored at all times. I even stash a small sunscreen in there for safe keeping!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you are looking for any secrets or insider information, I am most likely your girl.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Feel free to leave a comment asking for more and I will do my best to help you out. Now get planning your next trip and look for me while you are there!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-74063851014293913872019-12-20T09:00:00.000-08:002019-12-20T09:00:04.177-08:00How to Gift Experiences vs Toys This Year<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUMRUhR3B5sxvc8NhlO9ZBR6mdj2burmZ1vR4Hj_KFFhsIbqdTAXAfXCVuDrcUvTzGnFDl5F-hp4ZFKbEO4XvwV6HZQUz5E8P5j9k6QgXWxqcLdpzZblAV0qqy-d4Ex4Mx9j0nPkhPrcU/s640/The+GIFT+of+experiences.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
This is it. Christmas crunch time.<br />
<br />
The time when everyone is running around trying to get those last minute gifts, frantically wrap them up and nestle them under that glorious tree.<br />
<br />
While I tend to be a "shop all year round" kind of gal, like my own Thring Mommy (always listening, grabbing things people want but then forget they want therefore making it more thrilling), I have started to noticed with my own kids, that all that shopping, wrapping, opening is well... really a waste.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4Mru15yotmZyr66M-L8n-TFVnZmfP2RJSIp8rh1TZ__SxH7fSwf3k4Q5mAUjh5LGloxStrm0BsfEMz7GFSyNHxbwnTM2iBWbBjF_zN9LJxz4TzTXzQN6V5RPt4vXhTESZ9J_p_MxFpw/s640/IMG_0889.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
It seems kids these days have so much that they cannot even really enjoy it all. I see this all too much with my own spoiled angelic boys. They live amongst toy overload. Thanks to me, they have everything they could ever want, and then some...it is just too much.<br />
<br />
I had intended to do a "no gifts" clause at their last birthday party, but forgot to mention it on their invitations (a mistake I am still sick about) and it was rather nauseating to watch them open a seemingly endless amount of gifts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGTmow8la1gmeL5tGnGpz8eGqxDJm59sk8OSmniLykHvMZPaFkmIdj376Jx71v-7mu3Y06cmKjU5zaKAL9oMb-I_ISTsv7ES41epbQj7XaBWJ_flmGEJAgZEREi12bl-MYdxBVA4Va7aM/s640/IMG_1515.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
They tore through one thing and on to the next without appreciating the thought and generosity of the person who purchased the gift. While everything was exciting at first, they soon moved on to the next until it was over...then went back to playing with their favorite old toys. I was heartbroken. Something had to change.<br />
<br />
After a "too much" Christmas last year, a "too much" Easter, a "too much" birthday, my Thriving Husband and I decided that was it. We are done with the toys, the stuff the will forget about in one minute. Now we are focusing on experiences and as Ralphie from<a href="https://www.instagram.com/simplyonpurpose/?hl=en"> @simplyonpurpose</a> would say, "Gifts of Togetherness".<br />
<br />
This year we decided to spend all that Christmas money on things that matter, living life with our boys and making memories that will last far beyond Christmas morning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3fpN0pxWsKhgic3SOX6UCaS6HFlqIpw8mtlG7Q976Hjil5KVrqHl1-Lv0iph2GGB11P5BrzGnrpQQ8l_DGUSCnp2T_J_aT51k_oQ0mbTSw7y4PJlUyTaIBpNj2vjhf2fzHY6zGivAO0/s640/IMG_0338.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Instead of loading the living room with stuff, this year we invested in <a href="https://www.legoland.com/california/legoland-california/buy-tickets/annual-passes/annual-pass-pricing/">Legoland</a> season passes (best money ever spent for SURE), a few days at <a href="https://disneyland.disney.go.com/tickets/">Disneyland</a> with family and friends and ONE big toy for Daddy and his boys to do TOGETHER (what it is however, will have to remain a secret...)<br />
<br />
Not only do we want to give them gifts of togetherness, but we also want to teach them to be appreciative and grateful for all they do have and cherish their things. As I slowly weed out old, broken or misused toys I look forward to not replacing them. Rather we talk about how to care for our toys (no smashing into walls, no walking on books...ect) to show that we love them. We want them to learn how to be responsible for their things while also showing gratitude for what they have and what they receive.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg50CVcsmnFDsLNJ9ZlnRtWjHWaY6e-QZm-RiszfeagbkpmEWetVTyIaAyd17sznelEfkh8u0eCi3O7yk5wCU1BE7zVjgcuZPdYEZN1xMd_eUqWJhJix4HnIr8nH9HHbnsSbo8kLxaaPqc/s640/IMG_0317.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Well, we this year and every year here after are dedicating ourselves to teaching our children what Christmas is really about. Magic, <a href="http://www.thriving-wives.com/2017/11/10-christmas-traditions.html">family traditions</a> and the exciting experiences that come all year long...together.<br />
<br />
And don't worry....they will still absolutely have things to open on Christmas morning....geez, I am not monster!<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What are your thoughts on Christmas gifts? Gotten out of control or bring it on, you love a loaded tree?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-72384201555980613142019-12-16T09:00:00.000-08:002019-12-16T09:00:03.060-08:00DIY Washi Tape Christmas Cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijQasmmYzEAqISZkT1lCIN9MW33obkDnAYIYZJV9VqajtlGRFP9pHenoT_YQWWUfUHKOxbJQ8_KH1n1Jv0RFOK541nlJyN9KvAXMOF9uV3cFlx7Yp8_cL_n-1Wav-zP3jO-KoVZ8iPbS8/s640/DIY.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I just cannot get enough of this whole Washi Tape thing. I mean, there is just SO much you can do with that stuff! With seemingly endless patterns, colors and designs I am constantly whipping up things left and right. With my growing collection of holiday Washi (thank you amazing mother-in-law), it was pretty obvi that I had to do something with it this year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While gift cards used to be an impersonal gift, I personally feel that is not (and to be honest, never has) been the case. I can't think of anything I love more than someone giving me money I HAVE to spend. You can't put a gift card in savings. You can't pay a bill with a gift card. You MUST spend it...on something you want...ummmm, yeah, that is the best gift ever! Not that I don't try to find thoughtful gifts for family and friends, I do, but for most, the gift card seems the way to go.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQNsma9UN49qp3_i2fbSH4N92Mp3z9SN88t2yQE71L4AaP_HXKvHHLcTR9D2kuFdAesvn0hgHh0R8EPZ_iOdugcgvjUePSzLkAa9xqo4_z22dJ-zWI600NpezXT5jtN35Owjum7dCBiY/s640/IMG_0298.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rather than throw the card in the standard store provided envelope, I decided to show my love this season through my Washi work. I grabbed some random opaque paper (I know, who has that around? my original plan was my trusty index card, but I happened upon the more festive paper), envelopes, metallic marker and my Christmas Washi selection.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6BWaOF2xFFZXyHP5KK3ISjmGMF3q-U5jBnxWAdE2NCci51n5mwMyNiDXv9hT-9mXpD60lHMwqilYZVhFThOMQHNxchqt2VGJZoD7dG2foMCb14qsjoghPTo8pa3qG1ucwY5BkD72INMo/s640/IMG_0269.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBuFFlr8W4v7gzgGJzDFfZY3xBysLBqCmU5k2188IjVneqmk1i9Wq70_xdvdA7xb-hYhfz2UQjsb6tkRv5zkYGvuAJzPR3LYTITRrmRiOHBFvSFz0Srupw3Q8TITGFzF9yNTB2JxqbLNE/s640/IMG_0268.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I assessed my stash and decided to mix and match patterns. I went with one wordy one graphic and tried to choose two that contrasted yet complimented each other.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlf27ljfAkRDOm3pk9BaViPftc8NC746HHLBK7KamUkd8RqaakaPJLSXmxyy_-Wkz26hydH2jkK1anR3XNS_8wXtqagzywG_vmoni9fmk1mRe18PZ_Zi0ZxMaPbHPsQfYeS_uHvPBjNTQ/s640/IMG_0297.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpm-9-Az3_24r8eNh-x5tHCSGXN_dEw5G28AzRJKPETAEzN6MsSq-qviNerfCIIsUIa1gDO1PLBy1Z23QwM9kkyGtk5TmdiJgDXlTfItPeiB05vIyhyphenhyphennNE4J4uj0AFWvH8RpoRZSqFJw/s640/IMG_0295.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Once the cards were assembled, I reached into my stack of gift cards and matched the chosen "must spend money" to the loved on in mind.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcUVTidbBLgcHy4NKZy4eIlTIQY_lpDBAEzR2Mwp9R5HWX0hq84I0BQZ2WHiDYRWkyxjhX8IEZ-tT13SO948Z9pDZCjzu0uyIy0Q27E1zApw-n588aJg8rpC5H2KLxcK5ROhZtd2zSzu0/s640/IMG_0273.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
A few more tears tape and I was done! Using my metallic pen I added the "to" and "love" and started stuffing into envelopes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTBPhijFlJSxL7OeuPGTWT7NoWZHsyVHibwKfkzWFyCbazZIlBaPAD7UWELsOl-yVjCaxkcZsmmVDatn_8poQQ3GLM-FRRL_d8y54tTA1CM2pMYQ4cs3R1VzoauKzz6cmpYDYSBU7HuUM/s640/IMG_0271.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuHeGZhCggAFLEwI93p4ql6fHG_lxr3I3c2vBsap4x8Sc22G9_bBR6oS42P8kaAuMWNBH0keQTtkbBIH97TEF6RmH8AAt5QCSkaMOaZ9fEoVYWkC4EKo9dngPDSlHJyj9HPnlOFBTjnZc/s640/IMG_0272.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And just like that I was done. No major wrapping, no boring envelope, just a little DIY Washi-ing. I swear, Washi tape is the gift that NEVER stops giving! It adds a pizazz to any and everything. God...I am obsessed!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What is your vote on gift cards? Hell yes or No way? Washi lover or hater?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-46599979460310452852019-10-22T09:00:00.000-07:002019-10-22T09:00:00.961-07:00DIY Handprint Spiders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHCnpMeqNBWSNCEtxHcdoEm-FlrEtVJW5AfrYMR1QrKubx8LKXeJxn9tkDeubV-WHizwHjyzDlFuRPuz9phXYKeM9Lh1qVfVrortB8QTXlXBe-oxHPlMIaPxXoA_OgofMhMaRCx_KEnsE/s640/DIY+Handprint+spiders.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love to get the boys outside and letting them play and get creative. This is one of the easiest craft projects and as you all know, anything with a hand print is a win!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is an easy way to make some fun & spooky spiders!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-wVKH0S_n9yfcxo2XctyJ9K4hJYR4BBk3IwF8YB1mcY6f01AscBBKY1tbZ0QisYCgmnpRUoEQ5cmX58i-Z8JuL5IxLlX73cnJtT4CWJwgDPDn41LVa4OjvOQXZEJXYPmrCxO0Ez5dNw/s1600/dots.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I first gave the boys a half sheet of paper and let them go nutty with my favorite, <a href="http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/product/productDet.jsp?productItemID=1689949371896597&utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=PLA&CAWELAID=520011010000001767&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=20421090537&CATCI=pla-197675825097&catargetid=520011010000055792&cadevice=c&gclid=Cj0KEQjw4rbABRD_gfPA2-uQqroBEiQA58MNdEK_A77awDMvQ5q6YhEBM2ptvkqXxokzwE6ctFGdk_MaAlDu8P8HAQ">dot art painters</a>. I thought orange and purple would be appropriate for a background pallet, so the boys got on to slamming down dots.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once those dried, out came the black, non-toxic, waterproof paint. My goal was to have each little hand (no thumb) be part of the spider body in hopes of getting those little eight fingers to look like spider legs. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflsUPpVh_nMHubknHWehjlzKqyWjtAFJGDI_-JcaBbyor-gx_DY1acxjbrfeLmvqaemlQIUv6im9q8iP17mUNmGsoaSG4biUg9tvRN45kJCk2-DA7gKU6VSNdLiJP4BrJxHgYTi4h5JM/s640/IMG_9772.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_EzuuYjZEn8HIAS1TIy3mxTpiPGXMqZPQCTD3KqlZNCTQsRgC90k4PqLR_THWH-6LzWJGzF7RYt3Psxe4OHYdUxkWVoJx7TziTpwggDkuMF0t7fhWPaHjnhyphenhyphenPWW_gaAETS-TAa9Njd-c/s640/IMG_9773.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
The spiders were a big smudgy but that is to be expected with busy boys. Hey, it could be a tarantula right?!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8awmO6ruSGPXhhx0MN8kxFir0nkSV_oKJdjpMKGzYi7wnK02XjqXbbossKhkpdfMH5O6ZJCuCuSKXiKurFGIaW4_s66Td1wy8kHXi-QVIlYLVtgUxQfkjHLql-e9K07P_CbTs4JBBM2o/s640/IMG_9774.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Next up, the cobweb. The boys helped me squeeze the black glitter glue in the corner of the paper in a perfect webbed fashion. This is the only glitter I allow, it must be in glue form. A black sharpe would work too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5edmxJv9D1LtqSH1ZEg5zZ93kgeuo9_RBxJnDOyTCByVscpZ1hMcwX9PbOEM6NgFtC2Pe9Zd7e4gJHMoFbf2zx4hzBp5_11DkIR24kRDLGbF1QsCbVe_IHJ6PHA6I8vpe09Wg9CtRTs/s640/IMG_9775.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They loved the squiggly line going down from the web to their spider and squealed with delight! Two eyes and our spiders were complete.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBVUfS1RvGSgcgfjvPW4IlZpYmHq1imvdC9zynZksr26m1_CdftYXGUKYWky5dsEP5GK5bkFJy7_wiNgg-SRVaxSSMJL94R8Lthn0uZh1VDIbl6TGHp-srgHSyKsFDYMleivSSakH48w/s640/IMG_9776.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Once that glitter dried we were done! I showed the boys how to write Happy Halloween and we all stood back to admire our oh-so spooky spiders!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB0xInh6sedQ5SKc7K8SawSWhEegUMG7q-1P1aDHn3grQH7NT9d_eQv7X6H3x_0H2nzM90wDv7jtRlh_ckhgtcrpPNhW7NVLwOAF6PjwIGO26I3lYxGvhf-Z40So3icRVlzer4ja0laf4/s640/IMG_9791.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
This craft was easy, fun and fa great way to add a personal touch to your Halloween Decor!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-35741347159742592312019-09-19T14:00:00.000-07:002019-09-19T14:00:15.751-07:00Peanut Butter Frosting<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWfsvjxyR60pG6hRu8xWkh4sURTb8evwqsPD18t84xQjxDdNrmYhezDNEQ2e_x2k3q7fttdStTfQSkN11vhK_pOc0jwg3ZnPm1OATadX0F4jlgyhZPMZrymnw-rmx6bQHPjctHOH2Qm0/s640/PB+Title.png" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I am rather selective when it comes to my peanut butter consumption. I am not your eat a spoonful type of girl, nor would I ever choose peanut butter ice cream, cookies, ect. I more like it with green apples and jelly. That's about it.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My Thriving Husband on the other hand...obsessed. So, naturally, I whip up his favorite chocolate cake whenever there is cause to celebrate...and even when I am just feeling extra nice.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5tzdb5d55QFs-U1lVv0DhHjy2MR06vjpCiEb7BY-cWSgMh0OvjchJtPkXL1F_wmY8tl9UkaS328ij2DOVDRgq6_FaDyPJ6m3EKw61XOIiBrGjSTo12qpYGwzXwr1xA9M7pqQLtvswBnc/s640/PB+Frosting.png" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Please forgive me for not making the chocolate cakes from scratch, I can only do so much. But frosting? Now, that I can bust out on the regular.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I typically like to do double decker chocolate rounds. If you too are into that, then get those cakes cooked and cooling before whipping up this easy frosting.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_TWDIVsxcZ6LXXJjyq3tEH6Dg4xD_T-yEEGp0IkoTRdkftto3eGaPFK6S8wVnFc5q0KFiZ6iO0bqnod45GIVsvLfXb2KgFAY-c4O40Z2F_98HCJIT4gTZWCbpaARWvwNCRte3JDkA4u4/s640/P1060891.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As they cool, you can get started. Gather your ingredients and mix the cream cheese, butter and peanut butter.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNK3kRLkjng2QBnFfS6PcDgiWQqxTVQHiEiD03_9ztTbxHrgfAwWsmftRMs9qVw6X__YsMWjdAfUdA7Uh4MsI6DqIXpPUBCFgn-oCQappg_XbULG5GwiBDecRhXNR_VPwXuOoftiRfi_Q/s640/P1060887.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Once those three are whipped smooth, add in the sugar (I would recommend one cup at a time to avoid a sugar cloud taking over your kitchen) and vanilla. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje39-rcxaVOzSYWuGXPrNL0aauXBNEMI2n2m7lfhjrIkJIR11_GVqY3RoUClK0AzrbuHdqioCteZlC7eqQmVZ5WSKQWi780XIAhIWivpEhmhWJE5IErj1GlRN8-lLvxM4j9lFIjHLzLcc/s640/P1060888.JPG" width="480" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3acnZRf_FiM6Mj1R1A-IS-jhdySgEHgwfWwe3rZZ0Q6Kw_dfVjwU8Blu6AUsxRrQF5K1dPYA0qz7S9mLs4sAZdlbaefGB1XSFuphuKxEHkw0mV9AqPsNTJqu6NGOLaNxPVBuBOoOT-LE/s640/P1060889.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Once you are mixed the only thing left to do besides frost your cake is to exercise restraint. Even me, a non-peanut butter lover has a hard time...it must be the massive amounts of added sugar that hooks me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4U506K1K1Ba4Xawb4SPiWEqH9NYb7yVnP2-jWiGmv15LEdxp5YGK7RdT8TfiFKzUtXSZr2FgeS88oqBK22YsZn8hoB7x9bC51s4RLe4mYuhRELYG3_aOgxefb595rS7Zs2RY0jCaiMM/s640/P1060890.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
With your cakes cooled, set the bottom layer on your cake stand (or plate) and frost the top.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSIvrHtnYukDCqGZ4xrIc91zrBTDZLAEhWi0LwxyLM6mW7EHIpGJNlyF4JvdJVtRT9pjYzk8qKqd1jQ67IYzxjusqqcUiQ8iU49opryI9nHSN55gd8hosZQ_zZxrQ2SZS1cOlCh-oJl8/s640/P1060893.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Add the second layer and frost the top again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8gt2hSx0j4UcVVYXsBcMe7f00s4uNUZzCnLGjQWZP4-_eqkkB6eXYW9369tRj-L5HTuYnZHiqXDYTmLjp2kx3PPhKN8bnz8apjFYt-Jg2x0RKDzGsmLWogE6NjWhI_yMk2ZQqNJhVZTg/s640/P1060894.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Lastly, frost the sides and BOOM, you are done!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnWbKYIzgdr9KJVoO03Bp5naRyQxUpNHGvcjPWRCQfahMM6HOBzXc3WI16RtpaKMwiOrTBPyp3mOt-NpJY1QQOQvKP9QkByDo4HNBOYAinibwKgms-jbF41bhDMVmlWNR7V1SxVrN3pk/s640/P1060895.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
All that is left to do is cut into that beauty and enjoy! And trust, enjoy you will. Peanut butter obsessed or not.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjeEfjqPQ42iBB-ZadszaRUdf4LbR8wyHE7opdZPd3RAiMCc6HQBhG1MEAtZU10rwehzF8FxdpNkbl4mFE_4qf8d9dEciTpBSrvhMxJh8HZSGTExGpTuAF5qDqYUHEfKYjJiQmDWAqzDQ/s640/Cake.JPG" width="480" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Have you ever seen anything so easy?! What is your favorite frosting recipe?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-60519593627001326632019-06-12T09:00:00.000-07:002019-06-12T09:00:00.795-07:00How to Sneak in Veggies to your Littles - Smoothie Pops!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXZkTr7OrkrS5wVIE6pdWIHUDoQRJm6v2180w2NlIKOxVMGOcIKirT2FV5rpLY0NrSc_Ba3lvfG_bRpDEEuL9vzmTWQ-V7SxGlf6ZS_R5hHcKyw88E5_YKwqnDMt6r8XfzpH72uCqmUk/s640/Green+Goodness+Smoothie+Pops.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When the boys were younger they ate <b style="font-style: italic;">everything.</b> Broccoli by the bushel, spinach scrambles, zucchini tacos; I mean allll the veggies. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then that sassy toddler switch went on and they got annoyingly picky. These days it seems as though they have a sixth sense of my veggie sneaking and can locate exactly where I hid it...yes they even found the ninja'ed broccoli hidden in their pesto sauce..ugh!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As a veggie lover myself I always worry that they aren't getting enough of that colorful, healthy goodness. They will eat almost all fruit, but something about vegetables they just will. not. do. RUDE!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course, I will not tolerate this and I knew a sure fire way to sneak in loads of greens was in a tasty smoothie. I loaded them each up with some green goodness, hid it in an aluminum cup and I was in business! My smoothing game was strong for what seemed like forever...and then that Clarkey-Puss started to boycott those as well. What the heck was I going to do now?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi17L0XNe-Rteu1ekwRvIIkRQH9njpCRSo0rhxPMVVHgjwxGDJPmm6BqZQUUj8DTs91KuIUDD7cOifrKJneSQ4WczlCTo8cCOpxHD3-lhgZP5yBTJmVhWR_m1q-kNvjD1TaSBRg6-HNngA/s640/IMG_0078.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="480" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The picky Puss himself enjoying his smoothie pop poolside!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br />
Then it dawned on me, popsicles! These fun treats are always welcomed by the boys and since So Cal is basically an endless summer, they are the perfect post-rest time, afternoon snack. I can load them up with greens, fruit, protein powder and they are so elated to be getting a popsicle they woof that thing down and beg for more...now that is a #mommywin for sho!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I knew I needed some molds and grabbed these BPA free, drip catching, large <i><a href="http://mamasicles.com/">Mamasicle</a></i> popsicle molds from <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Popsicle-Tupperware-Quality-Pieces-Clearance/dp/B00WJZVPEE/ref=lp_11737843011_1_1?srs=11737843011&ie=UTF8&qid=1497236085&sr=8-1">Amazon</a> and am truly obsessed. Plus, their website has gaggles of recipes for the whole family to enjoy...even wine pops for mommy...YES!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While you can pretty much add whatever you want to sneak past your littles tastebuds, my daily recipe is easy and welcomed each and every day. HORRAY!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicihbMBFdc8iDotfcUKioqwpUhJxZrWfqxkkne0pqdZzmhRZDMakTVfyMijtUFUzRUA_mQNK0Jpbl65aSygcA6oL9NsjtAxu59vqE7WGN0OWSG_mogI7zjtUAdTybjFuKOUouK62Q5RbU/s640/Sneaky+Green+Smoothie+Pop.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's so easy, it's too easy. Grab your ingredients (whatever they may be), blend, pour and freeze!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6mo7ci7vgxjPMLn2yhCdqVyCwYZzU98wgzu4_2Tx_y0kP0gD2QbUsYkWsugjjTLW_oLJz3x8guWV9QlTWXL4OZRyvJhSjpA2cKDb3Vgo8MVojYBu41ttwI1jk12SgJIEIziM9Angvurw/s640/P1070543.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
SO many nutrients, SO much plant based protein (if you too have vegetarian babies, these are insanely loaded with the greens/powder/yogurt combo) and SO tasty!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwa_yzPTHcRrPT06kX4yXijse_x1RQmfp6z7Okj26E8YT9o3KCh1eS4i1Fcxy5BfpP2enMuXupjspYGkBdwsRxT8dzh1x_x6MHMyxR-UIlrAZII3YayYs_6KPcDrwbq-2C0_iMsocyv8/s640/P1070544.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greens first...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VkjaIy2D-7JaIjUCizx6xCRVgU4yp4JkeFjuCv1Fgbzaso7w1pJUEq6rpsB4VyOJDpubsGZc5Xgwg8gr0p0NqO_0w6SbGkKSQ8tTC1DWUIcOckZ_I4rDmZ5ybXmyDFor2OIl49KJyc0/s640/P1070545.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blueberries are great to add as they hide ALL the green color and are full of antioxidants...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSnsJ0M55Tu3nmq2V9rBj3_9SpWlmajXZuwXWPtt4ZWkIGikMMAo-h4ymDxgQx-iC-sq_opBWo6cMOTgoQRfsOPuVcN1JkihCFgB3qyEdszOdP1TYnMxWkyh84Yw2j77uS9U9CvUTA_c/s640/P1070546.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sweet fruit completely hides those bitter greens...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijQXT9BnkDgOImNsCor0PQgPsx71m2M8-EYniM2IOt0zkpQo7WIU2RkT0lSMYGPCXAc9pOljqndbpB1iiOQMuZfiGmw5xqU0d1x-qqzWijIWHREuyHqd23xenIM7wrnG2NyPcOkCQHv3I/s640/P1070549.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Extra boost of protein...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1220" data-original-width="1600" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijLM9I8BeUbe70r4v6GiYYJYa3rH6N5AKMPHC6SyZCIIBjHTIublhpL11HSnBpgsuwIO1Xw95ccHEK_bEjbvR9RxOcnTqrkfTNX2cyxi4OgWAIBm37FJOhR6KTFx4LHALIjWO1oUuPO_E/s640/P1070550.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DONE!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Mamasicle molds come with a handy tray to make pouring and storing as enjoyable as a summer breeze!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PkBDjgagjtboYwuDASvQuGJ5pJPkkwzaTnAOJ0xWkDfxC_R-MStX0OXvUCh5LYKjpNf05rpcdM6NETInFfmqHIuw55hwhPT8Gm_4XC0UreyEWnd81olz-na866nFkLJPh8w4zpacE2A/s640/P1070551.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Fill them up, pop on the top and that is it. You have made a super healthy, super tasty, kid friendly snack you can feel good about giving your littles...especially when they demand seconds.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTesBKmZ2OmJwKC70_FOQjCxAlolbLRT3WagoD1S6ojsfSwAbtXsEgtsuhyphenhyphens5RqFdrF26JsnPTnp6VkzBwM3Yx0GjU-yJJBolkOZkpbRUTmXClFc4HBpvMHEEdqJHOdYfz0zUd5n4hHg/s640/P1070552.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM25Uc5OK5pcZtPK_lHweQiWEyaeKImzRfhTOiKt-Fe6u0PfN14QftBlFTwSxN_hy-3n6T7qbm9DwZnWhrr7GE9a3SB8WP5a4S7h305AFwVgTPADn6KHNpXq0pUtfJtZAk1pNDifQLQLQ/s640/P1070553.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Summer is in full swing Thrivers, so let's get popsiclin' and sneakin' in those greens...ha, and those littles thought they couldn't be outsmarted...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-18096229577739326422019-06-05T09:00:00.000-07:002019-06-05T09:00:01.195-07:00Recipe Review - Blueberry Rosé Lemonade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNUyhu6UoCp2Jw8NOgmux9gGsCF3paVNzFpHrhdqZtRSAverVzqQWiG7Tc2MKjd4go2dsN5mosGre-qyV5TnZzcEhGvHmlJ0i-nkN3vXnpJuSUax3JQph6V2k2y156K7zVBd0W9tn8F64/s640/Blueberry+Rose%25CC%2581+Lemonade.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
I have many a blog crush, and one of my most steady ladies is, <a href="https://thecollegehousewife.com/">The College Housewife</a>. As a lover of Rosé, lemonade and blueberries, what could go wrong? Nothing I tell you, nothing. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Summer has officially started now, hasn't it?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8AiN56tvEZlm_lPNCscTeOP33lR0JnxnJ5oyAfNFhh_lncSzCmwCbzHHLwMVvlu1USEk7dYkFn1VabxWT6jGssd9Ll5brp57Ly92dNV8zb9IJOPtqZvy4DGkvEc1chLiBcyyc6_AmkAI/s640/P1070591.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVNMuxOnE7tbWIbQfQ8AdoSAZ9ANHi0ZdNzxNNwnA2B8C-6RI73uFK2_RHZLn1kSBUuyB16NU5eIF034S6Tz9ACiRkFd0LNOrdZIVRbFT-zWQpQO_PDrWafa4bxEetqvMftT7fX28cFU/s640/Blueberry+Rose+Lemonade+%25282%2529.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
In a small sauce pan, combine ONE cup of the berries, sugar and water on high until boiling. You will be able to see the berries start to soften.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIy3B77tSqGdIWtpnMWobxgNE9BJ179Pwt7Tdw3IXf5Yn_NFKG6Alc_qdDKB5-ArREzzisNaGTjiCHsMNNn9x4F3hZzmOrqiih9FIvrBw5JMBUwuXcVdrt7PeN7f3X7CnXoeVl-uSkQU/s640/P1070592.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
In a pitcher, add rosé and prepare to add the other ingredients to the mixture.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpAZ7t8JhpYZAvzjh3KqGQ779g-OfhLxS0g1VgzNJsTxjlqXx9BwkZWc49IkcWMpd4OZEJQoht6KenNTUn2J3Snc6D-0ZX9yVPPBtRywU7l3MmpQcnl9hHkkuJVZMrq9ISw4hEFXXaUQU/s640/P1070593.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Strain the berries from the juice and add into pitcher.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYys2SKhZf2RrUp04JgCmAz-ikj_OGoLC8M5mmXnT8maqBdMRNLBJsK2nH7jEHU31sulqz7iP_P353E1CnwbSiuAPbNRbZzLL5OgowxtFBi45ioBFS4_UEw5ggpRuky2Ty5TbF_VFX6p0/s640/P1070595.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizGfMEPKGQYVpigJpbp4jgAK-DdvAfZA1vnqQ-12ZNwpuE9xZLxLdCeT9ITi19JBjHDykVNPcBMS_ck-DyDpwdk8K0rPB8rd7lLrVtwMaDnUMPy07NGBv1JehKGoz1gvS67-Bue9V2-Ec/s640/P1070596.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Add in the lemonade.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju37rEQHOoe7PjR9SFwQKgoEVZVMm8sxPWJsADKD1h0vWGnmiVpUKWHx0pR9EPI1be-1VxBJkMarzv26V9FeQfc_aGZhIK_D_xHgvX41K13Ok1QsZta-gSnBbZRS4lH_SXOlHNZh68a8c/s640/P1070598.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
The vodka.<br />
<br />
The lemon slices and additional cup of berries.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_MNQP3AN026PY6Zub3UcPdhM93d8EaulgGvfXVidWNbx3_Kntlz5HI4rjIT1u1wsQzZJVse7nYAxVwnaZxiEc54DMpB6QzKfwY37Ie9nhv_QmD5Kk5ocHzHi2lx9XiUiiDz_CLa9nrR4/s640/P1070599.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stir it up and refrigerate for 2-4 hours before serving over ice. Get ready to have your mind BLOWN! Thank you College Housewife for my new favorite cocktail!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgat1pkVSeAK0hOJvjh6b-jSk2DZt7fegTUGq5ND4aUcj48ai-b-VRyLrh_qh7vZl2O40lsDZegRMqOeW0nx_kpVk84WHZCXHlM94n-OTSSb_qhS7ocE1iuBUVLKvX8LwS6CJ8TJKLY2dM/s640/P1070602.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What are some of your favorite summer drinks?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-62089331098738023862019-05-28T09:00:00.001-07:002019-05-28T09:00:02.725-07:0012 Tricks to Prep for Summer<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvHnbB0DDsI-46p7hBY7QFLqytAK7JJ8IhYn9UDT2GTo8GeVYn2uI-SgWwnWlUGeQT-VUv4js10gLw26w64iF4vj0CTgG2Wlgvy0ExjyHHXpVDrewCQrtMLxbuqOOQdywnaSk8ol9uGd0/s640/summer1.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
It's officially summer...are you ready? If not, try incorporating some of these tips to help you get ready for a fit and fabulous summer!<br />
<ul>
<li><b>REST.</b> Ideally eight to ten hours is what you should shoot for. <i>Shoot for.</i> If that means winding down early (with your kids or without), then do it. I keep a notepad by my bed so I can jot down things on my mind that might keep me awake. I also try to get to bed early enough to read/meditate to make sure I fall into that deep sleep I love so much. Staying well rested will keep your brain in check when those nasty cravings set in.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>INTENSIFY YOUR WORKOUT.</b> Work out smarter, not harder. Don't waste precious time jogging along when you can speed it up with sprints or a Tabata session (20 seconds high intensity, 10 seconds recovery for eight rounds). Whether you are jumping rope, squatting, lunging or high knee-ing, push yourself through intervals and make 20 minutes count for an hour.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOt45_SnMnnoWQqeM8F12L_QhciiLRyyi7xLZApcbtSedLeDQxqNe4Ko4W7wioMHkyQA2gKoPgjwj6M2Il4HztiFBFVNB65PVc26AtcHdgAXcn1m3iOqksTy5iHc_9XDgA2NQce1epbk4/s640/Health+Run.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><b>CUT BACK ON COCKTAILS.</b> I know, I know, WTH...but if you want to lose weight, one of the first things that needs to go is that nightly drinky drink. Try to limit it to one or two drinks per week...if that. Once you get to your ideal weight, then you can enjoy a cocktail poolside...with that rockin' body of yours! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>FIBER-FULL MORNINGS</b>. Fiber keeps you fuller longer, and who doesn't want that? With the recommendation being 25-35 grams per day, it seems nearly impossible to full up on that many berries, cups of beans and whole grains. Start off strong and get as much as you can in the AM (think steel-cut oatmeal, fiber cereal with fruit).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>HYDRATE. </b>There is one true liquid of the Gods and it is that quality H20. Ditch the soda and juice (packed with sugar and calories) and flush that body right with nothing but fresh, delicious water.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivIz8jKCw_JhBn3IatmiSIEvICd0APDr3IWPTkY9ReUQ5T2-3GPgqVikAtckeWjgVvWZnhgtVI9kLzTqwCGojReNJWVjxDgFIy2u73lGg52ukevIn3hx9-sKSPIBip6cHywhNbm3qyAls/s640/water.jpg" width="452" /></div>
<ul>
<li><b>MAKE IT A GROUP THANG.</b> Whether you hit an exercise class with a friend, run with a neighbor or take on virtual challenges, force yourself to be accountable. Get in a group and expect each other to show up. It is not nearly as easy to dodge a workout when people are waiting for you and are happy to lay on the guilt.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>KEEP TRACK</b>. With so many apps and gadgets out there these days it is easier than ever to keep track of what goes in and out of your body. Food gets written down (the in) as do your daily workouts (the out). I use <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">MyFitnessPal</a> for food/workouts which is great as it syncs to my <a href="https://www.fitbit.com/blaze" target="_blank">FitBit Blaze</a> to give me all the information I need to ensure I meet my daily goals. I also keep a small desk calendar with my workouts to make sure I get in at least five a week. Nothing is more depressing than seeing empty little squares...</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>LIVE ACTIVE</b>. I know how hard it is to try and make time for fitness when you have little ones at home, but what if your life just <i>was </i>fitness? Get in the habit of always doing some activity for YOU. One that makes you sweat, kicks up that heart rate and lets your body do what it wants to do...MOVE! Running around outside, dancing, riding bikes, jumping on the trampoline, teach yourself (and your littles) that being active IS life.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisUmA0uAmS6vMa5GVruXe4ku13lfcumEMYwaAodjGfftcyrHAyI2W5AS_XZc3c-F6ph29r9OOndjb97bduN5VudtLD5xdkLWk9YtOHgdPTSLWZKarrgNaDQ28MI33ropk62oSXPuDe-QM/s640/Heallthy+Food.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>EAT CLEAN(-ISH)</b>. I try to eat as healthy as possible, but I also don't deny myself anything I want. So, yes, if that means I need a day of chemical s#% storm, so be it. I accept my poor choices and make better ones the next time around. As long as most of your diet is whole and healthy than you are off to a good start. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>CHECK OUT</b>. Taking a small amount of time each day to mentally cleanse through meditation can reduce stress and also get your mind in check. When your have a clear head you are less likely to go digging make poor eating choices and dodge a workout.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>SET SOME ASIDE</b>. When you make/order food, train yourself to see multiple servings. If you are out, ask for a box. If you are home, make a small plate and save the rest. Don't gorge yourself at each meal. Keep it small, enjoy it and set the rest aside for later.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_znE_yZ25pRk4N0k8qd-Q8jcIYzPoWKtrnYJhyzUuSd2jttCSZRQDOpbRFvhwQ9IPlUz_daOaTlFdcfh9F5trPD0o41kKbSuFNA81R8j4I0Cia-aXP-gQS1L0Ump6hOPQ-nzY5KteQpU/s640/Healthy+Mind.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<ul>
<li><b>GET STARTED</b>. Make an effort to get healthy. Even as little as five minutes of cardio a day will have you feeling better than zero. Jumping jacks while dinner is cooking or a dance party with your kids will work. The goal here, get your endorphins pumping and teach your brain to crave the feeling. Cutting out soda, your daily McDonalds breakfast or even just slowing down on that burrito is a good start. Take it one day at a time and do your best.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Do you have any favorite tricks stashed away to help you ready for summer?<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-21623623766157320192019-04-09T09:00:00.000-07:002019-04-09T09:00:03.040-07:00Recipe: Banana Bread<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGb9jgJGNZB7eCnlOarI1pPYyRPfbD0hwpHqnrPqYmFaNJd4J5knGZ_umIDaPuuMS48brmdrJcy3qNdv6K0BNRPu1imtcW65csGTxiUUF4iiMlubXx4fvK1gghnCfSFNI_zJxUiau8r2A/s640/Title.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
I have a pretty serious obsession with my Geena. She is the most beautiful angel on the planet and the mother to my mommy which by default makes her the mother of a Saint.<br />
<br />
My earliest and best memories are being saddled up to the bar of her kitchen. With my bestie right next to me, (my Poppa) we would watch as this stunning creature with white hair made our food to order at, as I like to call it, the "Geena Cafe".<br />
<br />
Aside from her world renowned chocolate chip pancakes, she has never made a batch of banana bread I didn't like... well, she did once put nuts in it, which was exactly what she did, NUTS!<br />
<br />
Since forever, I have stolen her recipe and now make <i>at least </i>at batch a week for my brood. I have adjusted the recipe over the years using vegan butter or cutting part of the sugar, it always ends up being the same amount of delicious. Whether loaf or muffins, this recipe is must have for the busy and treat loving Thriving Wife/Mommy.<br />
<br />
So since you Thrivers keep asking for it...here it is!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZl2Ge-Z1H-Nfu4wY6FsFp7E_7PhgN1gW3J4EDwb4hX8KMIaS-s1v7YfCNELC6JxzAZqOs6lSyXlRT239ojl3oHuobJKe_Ui9Azr9sPIQENnEmdZK9am_BfCUL5GyDwJRxDgfIGdcWiyk/s640/The+Weekly+Loaf+Banana+Bread.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Mix together the first four ingredients, "the wets".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWpHVbgs_Gocf75OTTX5muBX9brYrqF4jEkPfSrqkkfc1OarJzsIEsliDm2Lp8Sf9MZdY8Qms5cA3OcXNGnk9DZrD7tqxl-6FACDiagzICKwXjq1vCrs0GuL3Y2nFEPBgaPwS9yP8l6yw/s640/IMG_5436.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Then add "the drys", one cup of flour at a time and the baking soda of course.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV14T0cH7fwkSh14EWiSxJUW24E9l-JNFTLBRviXw6rLlmIbn4bLqOax0VCn2TlhJ93jIh3-bujai9E-ywPtfxhc6BuzAEBX05g6RotI-RZTr6IANMz1UJKepE7-PEcAiLUsR7YH-tWjA/s640/IMG_5438.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Throw in your chocolate chips and mix one last time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7puODA_22QjMcW38_pl0XC3t-J4c_r653rgBp_y7XJWmgyggAFNpbvzYtT1ATOo4EVKdUPtvMdHktcC9i4hN6c0CvyM5EdXPQeJJfUp102Y3teuw4PxyY0fBEltwpmC8J4ju4lJmPoMk/s640/IMG_5439.jpg" style="text-align: center;" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Using a greased loaf pan or muffin liners and transfer the mixture. We have been doing A LOT of muffins lately.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDo-tN0dzhwy2RcxjWnXvlHLfNEZ_g2oqaSBldM66ErBz6X_r5EnmfNWuC_M5MypkKdAVb_j_K0VqAcuax4zpDb1iZBVACVka1vxO0WzKH6d6_c0zsoHx-CeTHme7D86epue2u2EnDD0c/s640/IMG_5440.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Bake at 350 for 30-ish minutes for muffins or 1-1.5 hours for a loaf.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunahr7r0Yci4UnlKzTHpAWTiHa0FLE3zAY7GuH8EjobAYztMLPopclWxADZ0fZrwvhEYJOWq1Ij-CKTtqOmGXJMn-35P9rLT56G0BZ3u98y0YAyIwYOXnMSrQpmvq1g9vH80VCDvXNnI/s640/IMG_5441.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
When the edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out smooth, remove and cool. Trust me, you will smell it when it is ready. YUMMMMO!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-kkItCroVrAXWVnMAocQbb44gdShWSL0xMA12_VM0EvtPjyrh74b3YtSWXQyKvhb4Q1zqWzShCaGmU3U-WfHTX7TrNENqrCyS6c6PGecMfqemA4EU8yPvyXySQ31LqRYVGfzQ_8uR-c/s640/IMG_5442.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Quietly eat one before your kids come in demanding to try one as you politely lie and say they aren't cool yet, which is actually kinda true since you did just burn your tongue woofing one down.<br />
<br />
Share with everyone else the next morning and know you won't get your hard working hands on another one until the next batch which will be in a few days anyway.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicxlC90xWZSvmAmHjcd3UuHJSQ7XZ5RTy30VYMl67pcvzyZx6fR70Yk_jfPit4yke_KtVyE1gZf1lTibMb2LZwehXi683idEXkc1jPVaYCZd7BfmJd4vP_qqpHQ4GfPriR17Rp_NmZSiQ/s640/IMG_5443.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, there you have it! So easy, so tasty and so worth making weekly!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What is your favorite muffin/loaf recipe?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-13132373429541850732019-03-20T12:00:00.000-07:002019-03-20T12:00:17.441-07:005 Ways to Spruce Up Your Laundry Room<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-8NpiAnu5wZHqWbywnoG9u4ZJ4DMvIkl-yTZ22sDVAm7slFgHUhr6q3YkFCZe6Ye8bvkWu04CxfRNbNgJ28mzPDx_KibLuEFvi8XI_LMlbza6aj5DpK-9pwhGObQw7yTBtWt-5x9bgg/s640/5+ways+to+spruce+up+your.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The laundry room is what I call a "high traffic area". It is the entry way from the garage (where I have my Costco overflow fridge) and where I do loads upon loads upon loads of laundry each day. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While I would love to completely renovate this space to meet all my clothes washing/folding dreams, that isn't going to happen anytime soon, if ever. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, instead I opted for little changes to make the room feel a bit more thriving for my taste. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Because, I'm in there constantly. I do A LOT of laundry.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidcIhQ7QxrVboBzofX9ze5m_EtF03axIptsPYFmu3_wv-OQACuBNWsCbJFLFrdSUTq5XjJR3TWpVz2bumbcospntHatnGxsut4ZeDzN0WKw0kHdTDUWia07kr_RlfUfs8_KNvbNyHHWM/s640/IMG_5940.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>1. PAINT.</b> Before we moved into our home we had it painted. Since the laundry room is really "my room" I wanted it to be more feminine feeling than the rest of my "Smoke Grey" house. I opted for a soft coral and accented it with floral patterns. One thing I do regret looking back is not having the cabinets painted when we did everything else. I would much prefer a bright white...but I am surely not going to do that myself #ihatepainting. So, for now, Classic Oak it is (trying to make it sound nicer/fancier).</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqjxsDwdMqSBHJuQ281h74E7AAJhEMzP0xE5ffRPs2JP0AQYDHOEOBHIOs7kvo1p3JMioPhFjpo8tVctfnzdwvLEAjaskHQHTZRpmQP5FUF5WlogGeSBXxvIIUIcOcY97VI54A2nhevDk/s640/IMG_5786.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>2. CEATE A CURTAIN.</b> That dead space above the washer and dryer where cords try and hang out drives me crazy. Since I have the cabinets to store my washing supplies, I opted against installing some nice shelving (which I would have done if the cabinets were not there) and decided to add some floral flare. All you need is a shower curtain rod and a vintage sheet of your choosing. Fold and drape and done!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8cgLcWTtflMoK7VpPJBptaavlRg91dYIwyPxuIF9qU5MeqqwBb5H4_YEK42bqBS7dHfz_RVTFxABGOALLCm-VfatmyThpmY6X7Ic4gmy-B3mAB99a8VGn9JIzaC1rtvIOtI6G1RXI2k/s640/P1070577.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"> </span><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCqrUxQNrwoaOoRDUKF_XMYz3_IkP_HVz07Xoq41HEsx-FtF6QNvU4gcuf8zSq5GL0S2poyuNs4c4AsPC7OZD8QFbJNEnpuK_DBun3JmH4SY3psXw1p-5dUhazBwA3bXtC_0TLyQsn-ng/s640/P1070578.jpg" style="text-align: left;" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<b>3. ADD CARPETS. </b>Since I am a total clean freak, I hate the thought of my fresh laundry accidentally landing on the floor when transferring to the basket. Granted, my floors are also clean, but still. I added a little pop of color carpet in front of both the washer and dryer to warm up the space and keep my clothes safe from the (clean) floor.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilL2ACedFGIX_mf6A8c3dq1vYfT2ZpAtvrebBVfBbIcYpx-kOkivI6RX5eehW2vbSVnCmpH0fm-aekg6A94q57FNmLTXfeGr8tM1SGgT88paPlFoJa14NT-NpNMLk0FnfLXlpVKMWLsmU/s640/IMG_5912.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
<b>4. CART CADDY. </b> I have a small corner in my laundry room that needed to be utilized. Thankfully, I already had the perfect sized cart for the job. Sitting pretty in baby blue, this three level cart quickly transformed into a laundry caddy. Supplies on the top, step stool in the center and baskets at the bottom. Functional for daily use and made the space just a bit sweeter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIS1X-A1BRxvojGVbv1ugJxw4rER1dUszNvB5-p6U4Gp2rhzSotAfTllm0pLWbQJ-lq0IWWgYJaqEO0U1MqLpsVNVT4g6MQeuKAAnsKKxOxBbVcpbwTxk4DZqhGOdjVUtFvH_-yTcL3IU/s640/IMG_5913.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1225" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXIRq2cjBJBeDWJe3JTexcOBACsTKkCgWEdjKGYIDKstGAO7zhG-E284vBDqcwgfb91jUX4yl8TTojUk3UsASWGPxJ59riCwKCHXtVoFbQh1xBu-A62R6m1i6gJTLSXFHzqjGKzqvYc1Q/s640/IMG_5800.jpg" width="488" /></div>
<br />
<b>5. SASS UP SUPPLIES.</b> Since I had my cart, I figured I might as well make my go-to supplies look a little sassier too. I used a large silver platter underneath my box of pods (I use those for my towels), jar of detergent along with a jar of baking soda. Complete with chalk labels to match! I threw my wool laundry balls in a large glass vase and just like that, I was done.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvo04zB-j_17x8b0VowTM4mSK9ZnG-kzVy-Ono60YSnDpeUnOYetaPeV8hlszhOc6WnJIDjnzoaUenA89KRur3nYm8r_CQYmjCwlp1graOAHN4BMBh4MyIzFLAN_f8Zk_VOhvQ9VbPts/s640/IMG_5914.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With a few touches I feel like my laundry room isn't just a dumping ground for dirty, stinky boy clothes. Now, back to folding....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="294" data-original-width="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFfj_VU01FTmwx7mmo928XD_3WTPHUFZtCX99iloQB2haNAtT8rChxuLt_V4UqhMYo81cTSGUCmbC8iu8iO1OU_W3pUsYIkS18afAIHFOoZs4w6h-D87nDF7Ufl8zhglY4PDz3j15COQQ/s1600/laundry.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How is your laundry room space set up? Is it a little retreat or a headache?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-21088222029644709052019-02-20T09:00:00.000-08:002019-02-20T09:00:05.074-08:00Recipe - Sweet Honey Cornbread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhip2weeCOfMOcWL6XOL02jr-5emxPQRZIvn4zNXszicDoYPNubYaIU5cBg7ZpzHNjnoF3TlPG54dMKRo1MWStCK9Ir76FqqHVkDw3lc2DyZPh1X6HcZIeKuvgaZuKZVUS-3DuSYxwaP30/s640/+cornbread+title.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></div>
Whoa man, these storms have been straight cray! Thank goodness I've been whipping up batches of delicious vegetarian chili on the regular . But, what goes better with spicy chili than sweet honey cornbread? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. So, let's complete that dinner menu with the second piece of this tasty dinner puzzle!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Grab your ingredients...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3FcImPB6lHDBg9OyhN3_0x8Cw2Od23h5qvaJNOlchHMjmm9K7pVFMug6a9GZc7z_bwI05T57Alkw8HGoYBWmUzTH2ivf8Wwf5_bTcXk54eoQ08sAnPFRj0Tj-8eMNBH-Mw4QFigh8h8/s640/Sweet+Honey+Cornbread.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and spray down an 8-inch pan with cooking spray.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melt your butter in a large bowl and prepare to add your "wet" ingredients (milk and egg)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1itB4UuONJsvEmJZ7zDgtrhFzFOzFWQ7IgE3ZQaVOqg78byxIZt5LIaoytqOflDCEAbVXB5K66xX0khSs5z2ZsY2wrkRCUfn5_98I79y_Kvvs6oRAr1Z343kEaUCt6ZL5BkpFIaMNcE/s640/P1070226.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Whisk all the "wets" until well mixed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBI6p4-9SdWOlz6JLaf7nrMiwqSOxt45hZjjRys_cDLa62OTfdKuEAJNNejGXsfIottt-6ej_nPPTy9hVSyinV7HQPBS2k4o6jdt0iwyYzX_djUAjc5wT69NmXIlfENI0SE5kRG-dNiM/s640/P1070228.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Next up, gather all your "dry" ingredients (cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder and salt) and mix together.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CTRTIOEBdVQd4fk5uKyPKBg4kH8oe4lJhPegTUcZoh3sqr31Bz7Ytoppq6QtmmlgWI2KdgJXQhExhQuJ3mLuaYWyKXg2pX2YUiYYaTC5QgBx5QUoAVeqftx9nYb4_EEodyFQ7qm_1ks/s640/P1070230.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Take that lumpy batter and pour it into the pan.<br />
<br />
Next up, heat that honey so it is ready to pour.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigLxK-Y3zjoDudv5u7gjL3aQdDghnyX6UDlSM6B4Z1yiZnS8d3_rd4zBv40B1JYqa4Y8FvLuDiwH0lUtagQgOKnfvjojGSRC9ynS_neu9zUpmOs_EJmepVrqjoDhC-oFgoieAWv-QYiB4/s640/P1070232.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Cover the top of your bread with the sweet, sweet honey.<br />
<br />
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick comes out smooth.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFsp5lBvtXV1bVwuWd-biv5U5nqnNNU1F8obqM-IbwtrMBkV33KD3jEtXiGaLHONlpklRBhgBcMjSGtz7l8whbslwipyrQbwfTu5eGlWOwvrPeAnhU_suvVXu9p3QseWs5md4DVN46ryQ/s640/P1070236.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Now, it is time to enjoy! Serve next to a steaming cup of chili with all the fixins' and you are sure to stay warm this storm season!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1eCYYhD9u6A4AUrae1VJwQpnuPrbGaDhCPj9LjncIIdfH4r3LVL7xtpAUF8GYbZ2RNQmN7bCrKBJeqnK_f6qwtYneN4apZZaY5FNbBNhUuPyHUksBQYVQ1qe2mVfU37lYO0D6ebGG5I/s640/P1070238.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Want to make it even sassier?<br />
<br />
Throw in some jalapeños or green chilis!<br />
<br />
What are your favorite rainy weather dishes?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-1519578167793268942019-02-18T09:00:00.000-08:002019-02-18T09:00:08.458-08:00Recipe - Vegetarian Chili<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigNuTjZDbgfc5S9unC41vGYMzhrVFz8OxUNUpKPwuqlg7of1bOOraDPu8eSRjj6fji5uP-o1yvfOCODGM8yMvCucrDfnfrm6hLb2Vg0PT84X62gUyoijkcaw5nq9jrmb5yDMmDHcJ6BeU/s640/RECIPE+chili.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I absolutely love a piping hot bowl of chili with a side of cornbread on a cold day. With all the storms finally bringing some winter weather to So Cal, I knew the time had arrived to whip up a batch for the fam. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While most chili recipes call for all sorts of meaty ingredients, I of course skip all that and stick with veggies and lots and lots of beans. I also add in a spicy SOY-rizo to give trick my carnivore husband and not lose any of that yummy chili-ness.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb0Yj9U1wCI4Ehhv8BGTUDHft_RQixlENwVT7qeQMDEXZxCaHeVg0ALr5_muVLC560RppRuo6aXV24dLhwR3s4YnvmQzkRQeT1tcmAPb8ECFM58GQYSilXFHIQQaZy9pothiVPzZtXCTI/s640/P1070028.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FWekeY3ll35rmanRK0j_SUgFFV58DeikK2LDjK2hLhqw2V2lFUpJrCKOiu-VZQDnnZMjPqii_KrBcAx8SPMs582ySzCPK021WbV_McvAqBaiJOFHLab5w3tuP50-IEQqSHb44qCIjfw/s640/Vegetarian+Chili+1.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I tend to like my chili with an even ratio of saucy to chunky. If you prefer one over the other just adjust your beans/tomato sauce ratio and you will be good to go.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, to get started, dice the bell peppers and onions and sauté in a large pan or skillet over medium heat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYV6guDqUbb2ZhV9gD5bo1mPOM5NkES76sTE72K7TVXPAHt8fd1XCNTPafesfiOrmv3W1AUOeIzgCs6EPqP9qd-GzWK3JbXkyZT2J8_X5koZACoelZHyKyFv9DhHc97LBRKi_yRxmNt28/s640/P1070031.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Allow those to cook 5 to 10 minutes, stirring often.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi42whX-PnW3-05wDXnheI1tSz6myi97r2wQPmHS33HT9BW_GRkaNK4gohE_MSOb7VFC8sch94Yh2FGKmjKBucc0mysgSN4OPudGuSOCuHhVnSKYTU43MnpKB-8qARJxsX-ZiWZHs02Cvo/s640/P1060457.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Once they have cooked for a bit add the green chiles.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7BYYE66-sRvF8GiLBXc68iHz6d8qsB5sPaTrYZjxmMVbLLFvCqR2J4JAi1kOsTHhTiWPni2aR1i09NQt8B6Cyap8Lh5pCPnB_-HFVJcLiosO-Xc4O6DD100Pl2ByJJyH4D0ygFPTQMw/s640/P1060458.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Let those tasty flavors meld together for an additional 5-10 minutes, then add the SOY-rizo.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzwhyOBD_fhVQaTUDRITU4YgAQI_1HzNFPzJGl_WF1m7WjjmTWN1TruEbCQD_k05dyf8rZ04a9TyzM11y4yBTj7ZfYoZtk3zilXCSQf1aFDU9RUU_ne_nAWw01Pb1sNFweGeNMlqcE31k/s640/P1070034.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, SOY-rizo tends to stick together, so do your best to break it up and move it around the pan to cook evenly, another 5-10 minutes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once your veggies and 'rizo are cooked evenly, take them off the heat and set aside.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Meanwhile, drain and rinse your beans, dump them in a large pot over medium-low heat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOYiEzFOLH1_9oyYpx8DAg3XgiaGHsb_GYk2J7Q0TdiTeXcojPSJSBJWyencTAJ5Qk47xCVP1p0pmnhJ0m3fNmtD-AnnA1ULAuQXdBSPqHvR1_faVHkMKbqdLLGfql2RAmTXYzG1ZPrQ8/s640/P1070037.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Next, add in the tomato sauce.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljm-a9hMrIB6N7WpRN3gacUrmGB6HW_flPFO3GEYJIifilnfePDgn9q2E9TXw1kuvARkOJlBYr0KD_qBGMkoSfXih8ZlQPxBdHwhD5eiC_6K8FMcrkhB17apzXFsHmAp2vNjExBWY0tI/s640/P1070038.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Then, take your pan of bell pepper, onion, green chile and SOY-rizo and add it to the beans and sauce.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJZefLgLsQvQ9Juva__UegwoeiRfNpF0uZKFSIWSCleVa7EdkvgyNphV9z0JMGytyeAPj32QKlH-Zp2BARmCY7GXdhHoAM7TaWK9DS4XL0nD3hTTPDoG9AouHv09CmTVLPi1XzFpmMpoc/s640/P1070040.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Lastly, add your chili seasoning. If you are using a pre-packaged one, great. If you are making your own ( I use the seasoning my<i> Magical Aunt B makes - 2 parts McCormick Taco Seasoning, 1 part Aromatica Organic Garlic Pepper, 1 part Kirkland Organic No-Salt Seasoning) </i>add 1/4 cup or more depending on what you like.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1hR2sXauKvipnL369p_BqT9ay9Qnydqjd8e9bQ4buS35BWAwQMW8qDWhyphenhyphen9dW8uKJKMbRqxa9WYBtSpi326pTHHhfYX8BJMguAQvfZoEjLbooLAXImmEoTgFr32OZjMjHt8mQBPXD9eE/s640/P1070042.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Give all your ingredients a good stir and let cook for 15 minutes on medium-low heat. Then, switch it over to low (simmer) and let it continue to cook, stirring every ten minutes or so.<br />
<br />
As with most tasty pot recipes, the longer they cook, the better they taste. I typically let mine cook at least two hours so all those delicious flavors have time to emerge and blend together.<br />
<br />
When it is eatin' time, grab some of your favorite homemade cornbread (recipe on that to come soon), scoop up a bowl and top with cheese and sour cream. <br />
<br />
Is there anything better on a cold day?! I think not.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqsN3cDFQh51sCx0gH05vatPQUbNmEEhhyEdWWNx8GXKotbbf8Ir_44AuUDlcFqNBYUh9qLZiz_slUTcE_ulHgobEn5wZes5IdZxBgFutojX1kRXkkZT8ajiXI4zQ9k0DPu0Hn0jI2RQ/s640/P1070076.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
What are some of your favorite winter recipes?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-61323637861179889722019-02-07T09:00:00.000-08:002019-02-07T09:00:10.136-08:00DIY Valentine Cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4WB-UEm8LhUG4hM-HyreWaNs39L1Jru9C2-dGn-bpH8vXHNQSh_nzc2pLE0OXqJfieY3dTzBqMDOZLNjdLEqT_GBiMz8Qbkzi0JaX6E_x2Tmz-iWfCsKNyCOXrjgaTop3yBS3om1WNME/s640/V+card.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
It is nearly Valentine's Day which means it's time to get those classroom Valentine's on LOCK. Last year, I took it upon myself to lead the charge on busting out 33 handmade Valentine cards for Clarke & J.R.'s classroom. I know it would have been much easier to buy them, but being the Thriving Mommy I am, I just felt they needed to be handmade. Lucky for the boys they cannot quite write or cut on their own...so I did the work...they helped sort candy and do the tape. The love tape.<br />
<br />
Now I am no craft-ista, but I can cut out a heart. And throw candy on it. Using Washi tape. BAM! There you have it. Watch out Martha Stewart (yeah right).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAD8z6hU2EPxp_dXpa0Zx7CluT4CKsWdxZrE9YeKj1LX26sjnKZcQVO7jL2-XVWRaLvAwt0th06dJOFZkMN-q5rmjPf7FaLmTxSdOZZEn2Oi2lGU2eg9VavCgfVCeI6LpaG_V1SJKKTpg/s640/IMG_0953.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Lucky for me, aside from the candy (we went with Starburst FaveREDs and a Reese's Love Bugs) I had everything I needed; construction paper, Washi tape, a fine tipped red marker and some scalloped scissors.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPXujpbRZrSU5gqoxsaXwz24OkLsE20GziFV7zH3EA-3pwDVnjZRSjEGHUmTiW1P4LQOke5lLLDInJXAteA5BzwEpogNnHJVcdu83FFrOHl4fNBsEaR03T0ylg9qmtphs1__KImNfw3h8/s640/IMG_0952.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
First step, fold the paper in half and cut out a heart. I am hoping you can recall that task from first grade. I know I did. I also know I am horrible at cutting, hence the scalloped scissors; they make everything look better.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfJ2IYZEmzYvpiKlRBf5Gkum4rCLVT27pIKBOXLhCL9kMM1cFdGPYgEHsZ56H23JGHRkev3E3U1AmD3ASRgNjigMSgOCBcJXxG94Tsc_yuINpL1mqt4WE9TtQ7OES40338hwAqPRTjebk/s640/IMG_0954.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
I cut two sheets at a time which sped along the process and gave me two medium sized hearts per page.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmdoV2J-VB8ipI0wTJqFEBMx2nP00tSy_H-OhYAMsA5vDyxk2may2TAZrWYG7Rx1TnV4wABXt-wePjCzsZ-It0_qF0od6ztEk78n8yfX5L5L5-EuQ0zQ0X2SEmMUT5U-Jzp8D7f0qvbKs/s640/IMG_0955.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
In just a few minutes I had 36 hearts (I made more to account for mistakes) and was ready to start adding the font and having the boys hand me candy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPU4w2n39vDhJTylCHEB04tmrnmuqTQfTtIdVN1-_r-znJOW3tQ2FHk5RWGxDEkmBpKwdPHtIA7Zjrf9lSWypiTGaW82UQaG8BjwNKhFu3p-V-cgE6O7L0GXkZcSkE-RK5l_tz8Xp5nQ/s640/IMG_0956.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
Using the "bugs", I wrote, "Happy Valentine's Day Love Bug" on one side and secured a cute little bug on the other - DONE.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLaD5jn3tFWlTnRXzNV4AUDS90eXCpfMXTzI2llNGAlhwtJfqT2wacnwm_bMWyTEHAWkkQvwnN71mHkf-T7JrTK8rlxKHfXN4ute6ObEwnEAmoiMW9HN5FDkyPUfNqW1FR83QSY8KdStU/s640/IMG_0960.jpg" width="360" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
On the other we wrote, "To Our FaveRED Valentine" across the center and secured a Starburst underneath - DONE.<br />
<br />
And just like that, WE were done! Locked, loaded and ready to pass out at their party at school!<br />
So simple, so affordable, and oh so preschool cute!<br />
<br />
This year, the class is bigger AND I have a new baby. I think I have found our "signature" Valentine. Something we love, is quasi-healthy and personal....(drumroll)....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzlb6s6qZ_Gp0Iuogh1e23zJfbSSAHgYj8gwQfmphe2ggFrgJrijfZto4eNfD6vhdj1Hsok3FIF-YojXs9ncaZaKjKdWRdhd0BVJFtAHhTHvw6Ncrvr9ojgePIf_P4PFf65N2cBb3XbfI/s640/IMG_5201.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
The Costco Organic Fruit Strip with personalized sticker!! In less than ten seconds you are ready to go!<br />
<br />
What are you doing for the class Valentine's this year?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-38908956101977361942019-02-05T09:00:00.000-08:002019-02-05T09:00:07.424-08:0010 Tips to Staying Organized<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP1c1VZ3KdEPWI_lFf47zU2VJaPjtMk-3LV3irwEgH5y_ZJaGz9WaM6rF1H_drqibD93mZbmH0BayESybbG8ZqyldR2zHjls93hRBG976-78S9sOwL32wxxvKJSkk7-TwuN8804GujT34/s640/10+tips.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ok, you've done it. You've watched enough Marie Kondo on Netflix that you finally started getting rid of that clutter holding you back from living your best and most organized life. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That, or, you sat amongst all your cluttered crap and just watched in horror...and maybe cried a bit. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Whether you did it on your own (good for you!) or decided to hire me (hopefully), good for you!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, it is time to STAY organized. Here are some quick and effective ways to be mindful about your mess.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>1. If you get it out, put it away.</b> Once you use it, put it back where it goes. Everything should have a place, and everything must go back to said place. No matter what.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>2. If you open it, close it. </b> Drawers, cabinets, anything. Leave everything as you found it...closed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>3. If you try it on, hang it up. </b>Literally, this takes two seconds. When getting ready, often things don't look right, feel right or you are on the verge of a clothes attack. Instead of letting things pile up in heaps on the floor, take little bit of time to hang it back up and put it away.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>4. If you get it dirty, wash it.</b> When you use a dish, cup or utensil, wash it and put it on your drying rack or throw it in the dishwasher, Do NOT leave things in the sink. Get in the habit of always cleaning up after you use the kitchen.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>5. If don't use it, get rid of it. </b> If you have ANYTHING you haven't used in the last six months, get rid of it! Let it go to another home where someone will use it. Free up the space in your home for things you DO use. It is time to let go and say goodbye.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIHc3lpiGpIFztAMPRaKsPcxFdwfOHGZexWZWs1_MROkKwr0eN19himTr4KYcTT5mmhG23Q_4YdE5qfa-byPraMU5U0bjw5pjnkE3J8W7YDUSsmR1yXhpYwye61OLkO6hgu7nJN7bWaNc/s640/Organized.jpg" width="426" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>6. If it doesn't fit, donate it. </b>Saving that mini skirt hoping you'll be able to fit into it again? Well, don't. If you have a section of clothes you save for fluctuating weight (a bin of maternity clothes doesn't count) it is time to let go. If you wear it now and love it keep it, otherwise donation pile.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>7. If it's expired, toss it. </b>Go through your medicine cabinet and pantry to ensure things are up to date. If not, toss them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>8. If it's trash, throw it away. </b>This is a big one for me, trash. GET RID OF IT! When you open a letter, DO NOT put it back in the envelope it came in, throw it away. Wrappers, cups, packaging and everything in between. Don't just set it down throw it away.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>9. If it needs to get done, do it. </b>Make a to do list and knock it out. I always have one going and am constantly adding to it and crossing things out. Make notes of what needs your attention, where you can see it and get it DONE!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>10. If you schedule it, write it down. </b>Whether a calendar on your phone or something in your home, if you plan it, write it. This will help you keep your appointments and commitments in order.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With these easy (and often super fast) habits you will soon start to see your neat and tidy spaces stay that way. It is time to change your mindset and change your life. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
GET and STAY organized!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What other tips do you use?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
<br />thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-23370574205815939592018-12-19T09:00:00.000-08:002018-12-19T09:00:15.645-08:00Holiday Recipe - Moonshine Martini<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCT2ubB_UJxLWVr5PgiOImVHP04vXWltyMhBYG-2zTStusX9mQ5ht4n-Q2Gmrl8sS6f_1Nh9J7m6nbbh3rYg5uFcw0F13o1sN7YTDpVciXn1_NFdgGnvYbf91rV_vFIC4yS7RcGZPX0CHY/s640/Title.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="p1">
Looking for a signature drink this holiday season? Well, look no further! We have a tasty, festive cocktail that is sure to please. This amazing recipe makes a rather large batch, so jar some up in 16 oz, wide mouth Mason jars, tie on a sparkly ribbon and you have a gift that is sure to leave the recipient feeling gooooood!</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ52pR5oS2vU08FLUtD-1k2fP_BLUcf9qMukG4dm0_RFJ2hsL6CknnUbhaj02VEIUNV14-pYvONThEmvls7SDboHwYO8KIuqgFuebNmIpu9gGDFhKoyz5W86e4myFRHU27mr3hGNbWPGAv/s640/Moonshine+Recipe.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Using a large pot, bring all ingredients, (<b>except the alcohol) </b>to a boil, be sure to stir occasionally so that sweet, sweet sugar doesn't burn. One mixed and boiled, allow to cool. As soon as the mixture is cool, and I mean, <i>cooooooool</i>, stir in the alcohol. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
With your huge batch of cooled moonshine, it is time to jar it up. Store (or prepare to give as gifts) in Mason jars, each with two cinnamon sticks. The longer you let the moonshine "age", the better it is going to taste!</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Now for the martini drinkers in the house, let's get to shakin'! Pour some moonshine into a martini shaker with ice and get to mixin'. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5C3q5TGiLZXoINTFG1XAdiShScIvfW7Az0x50uvT1iKOt6MXSO9-3hIL8VbRUzm37CnG4X9DkEdLS2rkVCg_pXv8_0defOQGj4UXlGX2LvfT4KWCU77lNdb3xmd2__VROJa4XNo0TfVOm/s640/Tini+Prep.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Using two small plates, prepare your graham cracker rim. On one plate, add some moonshine. On the other, crushed graham cracker. Dip the rim of the glass in the moonshine, then again in the graham cracker. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGjMGUGp_jLTddLnY1XxFgmvjR6P7SzlpOnAbGWuy_Sidc5EwicXmPlHbU1CiMaWbhlWGxcYvT1GO1C8bmdrXT84qPt5zvgC8xlrIIgA1O8QHzGBPsOTreAPQYmsVyl0BtGSYR81ffYmu/s640/GC.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With your glass prepared, pour in your delicious chilled moonshine and enjoy that martini by your Christmas tree!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaarNFGtTRhqdrCCZFR4MboeAB-MUH4fBcBjDx-PlxUjSBi6nrvUzpPr7z8MD3nuQ-w738BTHxlSkeupUoP6uURoW0-sRwr44d1XGoZ73RPen-PoppJ8TpRVLRXNjuUpJ6iVlQNgHYdmk6/s640/Tini+Orn.jpg" width="576" /></div>
<br />
<div class="p1">
What are your favorite holiday drinks? Eggnog? Cider? Do tell!</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-52225553966469413992018-10-24T09:00:00.000-07:002018-10-24T09:00:01.480-07:00How to Thrive with Theme Night Dinners<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjftwL3zNwRBvHURZG33tC0jeVqAyH3FReXu3rdmNrd_tMyX-4oYLz-JlYOVCTho_x_LHaTtg0R89zONZFhC7lKDIOxFpW_QOI8nkSGE9n_jSImWnBvxyBIgN-vIN9ue5fJ0yG7HI5aC-U/s640/Theme+Night+Dinners+%25281%2529.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Being a Thriving Wife/mommy is not always an easy task; but it is my truest passion. Being a home boss, working part time, managing four little boys, growing a new business, trying to teach a few fitness classes and of course running Thriving Wives keeps me Bu-Sy. But, since I consider myself pretty traditional, having a healthy, tasty meal for our family to enjoy together each night is a must.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Now, I applaud those menu wives/mommies...good for you. I cannot stick to something so rigid as I never know where the day is going to take me. I am more of the "whip something up" type which is why having a theme for each night allows me some flexibility, but to also be prepared with options that are easy to knock out. I keep my pantry/fridge stocked with basics so I can tackle any of my go-to recipes for the week.<br />
<br />
So here it is, my weekly theme night dinner plan in addition to my circulating menu. Please note, the kids pretty much eat the same thing each week and refuse to have it any other way which makes it even easier for me!<br />
<br />
<b>MEXICAN MONDAY: </b>I know, it is not "Taco Tuesday", but I won't be limited to tacos!! The week kicks off with my favorite, Mexican food. Here is some of my rotating dinner selections...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdB4rOdQaJNpfLXa8rT-qBJsg8O0lZyHvYIwlbVZlaO5ZhxKnUlO34r0PSlpYA8Mea4mT38Q-xEnCkLN_AQ-cJeBQhEss_rVnVn7WMg7c499tu-b_l4EO6YY1mndBtjgAZOYWqghnTJdQ/s640/Mexican+Monay.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>TUSCANY TUESDAY: </b>Italian food is always pretty simple because throwing together a pasta dish takes nearly no time at all. Since we are no carb dodgers, I always use whole wheat, organic noodles. But of course, you can sub in zoodles or any sort of gluten free pasta too. And since I rarely add in meat, you can also add Italian sausage or another ground animal to keep the carnivores happy. Serve with a green salad and even french bread to round out the whole meal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijlJR51DKLvcmxQ6UNVv04hjchGk1NdBIquaoLLGTQHRVwJV_v2o2TeOdPD_1PD5bdP7Z953-AIZkuGdBKw5Qp90ERmMeWemDcoeZtTyDxBE7JBXkWux_cIKK1QeWJXnHt-cub-G8DpfA/s640/Tuscany+Tuesday.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>WAKE UP WEDNESDAY: </b>Breakfast for dinner, a bad idea? I think not. The weekends go so fast and I don't feel I get to spend enough time eating the fancy breakfasts I so enjoy. Enter Wake Up Wednesdays! Finally, a chance to eat all those yummy brunch-like meals I just don't have time for during the week.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Bm9IzuZljEuWn3E9OPs52-vPvXqbUgCQZ98JPSzQwq4pFaKOsH08JkgbwN_LeCDfBSisk50DU7Gm493n2ePm6CeC-7V6Ucg7fudLyth_9pnYEsCEKMGY978VeAMrMJi-g6hvunm4BVc/s640/Wake+Up+Wednesday.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>THANKFUL THURSDAY:</b> Tonight's menu is all about good ole' American comfort food, and well, cleaning out the fridge of any leftovers. I typically have a few things to get rid of, so the boys often enjoy what I call, "Shmorgousboard" where they have a little of everything!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftO9_sxcI4uEikIrEHoibbQ5DhFDlAV_crMqMox-4672N8eda1fpYZkGdZIYldl0LL9TvKexfSzoplVHHxxqhliOGhW7nAzaK363ILtkaMI9PhBwV46nGT-33FdH-HvymkDZa4YWyhg4/s640/Thankful+Thursday.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>FRIDAY NIGHT PIZZA PARTY:</b> It's Friday which means it is time to celebrate with some tasty pizza! I make the dough a few hours before (so easy) then the kids start their assembly line. I love getting them involved and they love to spread sauce and sprinkle the cheese. They choose their toppings and then I get all gourmet and fancy with the "parent pizza". Throw them on the BBQ and eat outside or pop them in the oven; either way they are delish. Serve with a green salad and you are ready to start the weekend! Here are a few of my favorites.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOAJDQUOeX2e0d_5JlWdNbrEH8oemH3rhz3D2uEhWFgpX1tlY8gl2_aK2RB_ZCO4yoG-eAYgMRvDQJS9YyJv0kwG3t0zteZeeh7gNhefstG8DjzNlUNhoO_FMv2GZlw4XKAFugkFVium4/s640/1.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
And there you have it. A week of themed nights that make it easy for whipping up dinner in a snap. You can incorporate any meals you like and keep rotating them through so you never get bored. Since I always have fresh fruits and veggies on hand, as long as your pantry is stocked with staples and you are never without the basics (G forbid I run out of tortillas), you are ready to go each night of the week!<br />
<br />
When the weekend hits, I either use a different meal from one of the theme nights, try a new recipe or we order in. I have been doing this whole theme night thing for years now and have had great success. Keeps me stress free about what to make for dinner and keeps my family happy and fed!<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoy implementing theme nights into your Thriving Home too!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-19125547336588529342018-10-17T09:00:00.000-07:002018-10-17T09:00:05.144-07:00My Top 5 Breastfeeding Must Haves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfosLq837-Od2zT0JA7Pspj1McWTJHUbzGrMZm2guGU-PYbkX6abbXnRPjBKc4zhnF6s-9g9zKLAKcDZYEQ4tbM-pNXOI01V_ddfXWPxvLfZu_LvD9KXMZjeCO-Hb39f7IM_5DxE2H7vY/s640/5PICKS.png" width="640" /></div>
Breastfeeding is the most BRUTAL-FUL thing. I mean, <i>after </i>you have grown a human for the better part of a year and get to experience the magic of childbirth the real fun comes. Breastfeeding is not for the weak minded, let me tell you. It is a minute by minute commitment that most mommies will struggle through.<br />
<br />
I knew with the twins it was breast or bust. I never for one second entertained the thought of formula. I actually got pretty sassy with an LC in the hospital who dropped the F-bomb.<br />
<br />
I sought constant support from my local Lactation Specialists, I read and researched everything I could find and asked constant questions of friends. I pumped constantly to boost supply, dealt with nipples that felt like they were being seared off with a dull machete, boobs the size of watermelons ready to explode with each breath and never, ever questioned my body's ability to provide for my babies.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIvthqSJvpeC0J2RKDzhCxjF6Hr4wDiUAiMjV-W9UKYTGKpKGGrjnx198KAsUtxYalDtEgX8Ix9532-o6X8DN23gaNef_zlESKQkjBIWWoBEcOraWx8Q0KG5SOSUxPIzahsJ05sSo-1E/s640/BFT.jpeg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
I tandem nursed the biggies for just over a year and was able to donate gallons upon gallons of stored milk. Dude was the same...accept I had a whole second boob to spare! I too nursed him for a bit over a year and was given the huge honor of being to share my milk with a close friend who too was dedicated to breastmilk. It was one of the greatest things I was able to do for someone I love.<br />
<br />
It's easy to forget how challenging those first few weeks of nursing truly are. The honey-like colostrum requiring constant massage, milk coming in hard and fast making you sick with discomfort, the boob boulders, sand granules, fearing plugged ducts, bloody and cracked nipples, latch issues, the CONSTANT questioning that all this is normal...I mean it is no easy feat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="564" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTjpvJr-Lxb35WYdjaJKXsKw9YHZws8-NklVIz0hY6uLj5-3fIAw5h8tDXVEQVTZNM3Nu5kURcwXHfkCoZo5Q-TGz-dLxoWfMxWUmxjosQ3klwQRZXtYFBFZMRewRwP5QUTEi6wwDKhA/s1600/BF1.jpg" /></div>
<br />
Now that the hard truth is out of the way, here comes the good truth.<br />
<br />
As with everything pregnancy/birth, all that pain/discomfort is temporary. That hard work, that dedication, will (in most cases), pay off. Once your milk stabilizes, nipples turn to leather and you/baby get into your groove, there is truly nothing more amazing than being able to provide your baby with the most natural, perfectly created just for him "meals by mommy".<br />
<br />
There of course are many mommies who really struggle and give it their all before accepting that bitter defeat. While I am no professional, I think early stress from any sort of medical or other issue can really play a role in affecting milk supply. I know from supporting close friends that the heartbreak they feel from giving up on breastfeeding was devastating.<br />
<br />
But above all else, <b>any mommy who loves and feeds their baby in any form is doing a great job.</b><br />
<br />
Phew, with all that out of the way, let this (overly) milky mommy share my favorite breastfeeding products/supports. I would be LOST without them!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007HYL9TS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007HYL9TS&linkCode=as2&tag=thrivingwives-20&linkId=251ba6ea6f8b43def66bb54b187a8504" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B007HYL9TS&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thrivingwives-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK & BUY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thrivingwives-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B007HYL9TS" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1. <b>MILKIES MILK SAVER:</b> Obvi, I couldn't use this with the twins as both of my boobs were occupied, but with Dude and after soaking through one too many T-shirts, I saw this and immediately bought it. I used it nonstop with him and have already been catching milk like crazy with Richie. It is so easy to use; just stick your nipple in, secure with your bra/tank and let that boob drip fill up that silicon saver. I usually get like 1-2 oz per feeding from just sitting there. No manual pumping required and always a dry shirt!! This is my favorite thing to use, especially in the first few weeks before I start pumping because I can build my stored supply without increasing my already over supply. Just be careful when you go to pick up baby... milk tsunamis are never fun.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006HBS1M/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0006HBS1M&linkCode=as2&tag=thrivingwives-20&linkId=7deca0e89c423da5b6be77d600ce29e5" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B0006HBS1M&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thrivingwives-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK & BUY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thrivingwives-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B0006HBS1M" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
2.<b> MADELA MANUAL PUMP: </b>Going from twins to a single is quite a different experience.I remember stressing about what on Earth I was supposed to do with that other boob when feeding just one baby. Did it just sit there? Could the baby drain one and then the other? Wouldn't one always be super full and hurting? I just didn't get it.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, I am a quick study. This guy was a total blessing in disguise after having Dude. Being as I have too much milk and my boobs are on the verge of explosion constantly, I needed some extra relief after each feeding. I would catch on one side while nursing on the other, then after I swapped him to the other side I would pump out the rest of that golden goodness and then following him finishing on the other side, repeat. I LOVED the freedom of not being hooked up to the electrical pump while getting in more snuggles with Dude and doing little work for lots of supply. I have already used this a bit with Richie but only for comfort as I am not trying to kick up my supply any higher than it already is!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0345518446/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0345518446&linkCode=as2&tag=thrivingwives-20&linkId=8f7003922830e3ce5e8e7fda4028e0dc" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0345518446&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thrivingwives-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK & BUY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thrivingwives-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0345518446" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<b>3. <u>The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding</u>, Book. </b>This has often been referred to as "The Bible of Breastfeeding" and I have to say I agree. I bought this when pregnant with the twins and can honestly say I read it cover to cover during those nightly feeds where it was me, two suckling babes and the moonlight. I referenced it again with Dude and have done the same with Richie. It has everything you could ever wonder about all in one place that can be kept close at hand. We all know there are about a million questions and concerns that arise when breastfeeding, so to me, this book is a must!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JVCBBG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000JVCBBG&linkCode=as2&tag=thrivingwives-20&linkId=c0d9ce413e78e17ce116fcb5b95a3fa6" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B000JVCBBG&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thrivingwives-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK & BUY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thrivingwives-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B000JVCBBG" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>4. Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter.</b> Oh those sweet nipples. That phase between raw and leather is not an easy one. Thankfully Earth Mama has the most soothing nipple butter to ease some of that chappy, scabby process. I use it after each feed, before I use my manual pump and always before I shower. I love keeping those nips hydrated and calm...since it feels like fire torture at first with each latch. Aside from this being all natural and totally safe for mommy, another bonus is that it is safe for baby too! No more having to wipe off the lanolin from those tender feeding devices, baby can jump right on and you both can relax into a wonderful, snuggle filled feeding.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JR94KDS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00JR94KDS&linkCode=as2&tag=thrivingwives-20&linkId=b73960c19531f04008c2245e3316d2b7" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B00JR94KDS&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thrivingwives-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK & BUY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thrivingwives-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B000PGHMA0" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>5. Earth Mama Organic Milkmaid Tea. </b>Just because I am a milk machine doesn't mean I don't continue to support a healthy supply! As an oatmeal and tea lover, a daily dose of this amazing, organic tea does the job to keep me freely flowing. With all the right herbs straight from nature, this tea is a must have for any milky mommy's pantry.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
While this is only my five most used items, there are many more things I just can't seem to live without. <a href="https://www.target.com/p/maternity-nursing-henley-tank-isabel-maternity-153-by-ingrid-isabel-174/-/A-52345744?preselect=52318450#lnk=sametab">Nursing tanks</a> to holster my melons during engorgement (any bralettte is just too restrictive for me), <a href="https://www.buybuybaby.com/store/product/organic-cotton-nursing-pads-set-of-6/1017114140?keyword=organic-washable-nursing-pads">organic cotton/washable breast pads</a> and of course my favorite breastfeeding app for the new (or always anal) mommy; <a href="http://com/">Baby Connect</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And of course no breastfeeding post would be complete without sharing my two favorite sites to troll while feeding and wondering if you are doing this correctly...<a href="http://kellymom.com/">Kellymom.com</a><a href="http://com/">com</a> for ALL the things breastfeeding. And my personal favorite timeline breakdown, <a href="https://www.thealphaparent.com/timeline-of-a-breastfed-baby/">The Alpha Parent - Timeline of a Breastfed Baby. </a><br />
<br />
As I enter my last breastfeeding experience with my last baby, I am soaking up every second of the good, bad, horrible and magical. I love me some breastmilk superpower and intend to live it up, pump it out and cherish this last wet n' wild ride.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
</div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-71363619620299846902018-09-26T09:00:00.000-07:002018-09-26T09:00:04.899-07:008 Easy & Affordable FALL-tastic Decorations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD8sXbvJN8hgL4sFgFQlHQ8bYqNTCrCjL3Os_afj9nDWcQ2UdwIG1jzlZVCCLBAR_t2zexlhExCwChYFh6HUvoDWcQfvOpb-CN0ySug4ZfT4Ka-9TUXzXq26BWnn9BFNZOMo2vxB7WRBo/s640/8+FALL-teastic+Decorations+for+the+Thriving+Home.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With no BIRTHdays to celebrate quite yet, I am refocusing all my Thriving energy on enjoying the Fall! Now that we are nearing the end of September, if you have't decorated yet, it is high time you get started!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are my eight favorite and super affordable ways to sing Fall-a-lejua all throughout the house!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>1.</b> <b>Assorted Colored Stones of Sorts. </b>Whether marbles or jewels, big or small, anything in Fall colors will do. I have had these assorted autumn cuties for years and love that I can reuse them each season. On a platter, in a jar, sprinkled on a mantle...the list goes on! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqajJ2hD-XDSFsEQKQXnRntbuhvd0ao4NjR752nDeEg6G3TW-bUlgsU3gwOcONGOPbLO8Sds_ryYwvNMdQ_ejBAVlzyr6WULmaEAVCxH-2b_UFvm3_pX2hvrMahl3iQd8JqOZzRODv3cE/s640/P1060871.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<b>2. Fabric. </b>Also something I acquired long ago, but have been so grateful to have stored away! In brown, bronze and orange, shiny and matte these signature pieces are perfect for "shwagging" any and all surfaces. With so many choices and coupons to use at the fabric store, make the tiny investment this season and you won't be disappointed when you use them again and again!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLzKuRzkN9CBiHrtvWPFtzuzvYgkbOSGocmrE50PePRr0qMcpZH5XiiRrQzyp7oG6FaCG4wcRoTlq0JIHgobj-JRq2jjQ3HP3lkB2FdOAE5g68Tk02pPJMf4_CpKC73_9j3qk8wTmjmu4/s640/P1060875.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcKfCaYqfcMEmuCJ4RszmX3eFc0dBrEKh6ECWamIyvvhPzoWIxzSM4PjDDsEAXB_sb1OOTVxLrA2AMPsQdxgb-f2uq42qXJYU-bfiujtydXq3R1CWm4McpWZpGwvodUUJHUc8ggjsxRrQ/s640/P1060878.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<b>3. Sparkly Pumpkins. </b> When I found these minis at the Dollar Tree I snapped them up with the quickness. Something about pumpkins and glitter just really gets me going. Especially knowing it is not going to get all over my clean house! My big guy was a 50% steal at Michael's with an additional 40% off!! I mean it was practically free which makes me love it all that much more.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRPkdhvN9bt50wJUMlbyeqhfT2lDxYArYtIRDwJxqY7p8iMvNyff2hqXVqVAokqvNjWvtnbmI8OV_EAT1TADKOm6gfAcyADNMVoff-Y3q5WgnNYns2mjDiaYXGQf1_8C1Ic_j-sZMdV3A/s640/P1060874.JPG" width="480" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAa48POvABMKQ1cIV0_myhdpg_PPrvCsuPJcjrz7cEtuI3GQ1P6niCrSdebYSfR6p84x7rbZfuJY6nB5LYUlGA2gtCEGC_MrvhasTjTG8jnoebGTJo2xxaVXPCtsUwc0DOG9wdhGQnBcM/s640/P1060876.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<b>4. Go-To Collection of Mini Pumpkins & Gourds. </b>I again, have had these same supplies for years and always look forward to their annual debut. Did I also mention how incredibly easy and gorgeously green all this reusing is? With a simple sprinkle here and thought- out placement there, every surface in your house transforms making it oh so Fall-tastic!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjTZhBCc2RZ9w5yLskzXVfhtwnbhcCLLmiDV_YdS4Ssze28IO0EZ46AlLuk_oUvjhiLhyrHsGvIJDguqRDVCtauJJ2C6fDR1qOJuK4TxIR63LI2abgzRZqyOKdhZgwWG_0zMqZ8VFMhr4/s640/P1060881.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDXMjTKvPaLoxf4SxW3BtF3w8TbsU5TXlY_9QSQMlFtglO8JjL8xdXSKhhomeKJYmaMUDdoCaJp4TcoSg41qu81Ln6iHbKavwHias-c0GLt87VRZjUETUXPim9STVP5vwJj-iFwRM9UM/s640/P1060877.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhl9-oaChm7dX4xZtmh2qLYu4tvxT46TJc7fdGJh_4fOts8CYrvtdZtQ__jFPARdo5ivFpveNTezA3uX_bWfeBoMUwUcFw1t6hWm2U5wz8HQbwhdkSY6Hviv5QdQso2W20SMUHthpzMu8/s640/P1060879.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<b>5. Throw Pillows.</b> These are the pillows I use year round. They are well made and have lasted a very long time. I add a vintage pillow cases in the "off season", but when Fall/Winter set in they are naked and in full force! I love their shiny burgundy color and that one side is silky smooth while the other has gold accents...they are perfect in their true form from September to December!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEintgRFic9ZmRe14zS_hX1C0TEULeP78LmNxu1jOn536UPxWGd0IfvpkS6B1vOu0ThtWpVaRecAIk7ltwk2Ki93I4-OEmKC8e35OW8uj79ujiC8O4ZDoLXfqG76t-Oc3-0tEbtbV803Ap8/s640/P1060883.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<b>6. Leaves. </b>While I personally am not a fake plant/silk flower girl, I have NO problem busting out some silk leaves in the Fall. Once you buy your first bag (or bunch depending on where you go) you will NEVER need leaves again! Also, there is no "real" leaf collecting, no "real" leaf mess and when your kids help you decorate (as mine did) there are no "real" leaves to crunch!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXm4YriPgJJy-2SiW1YeKj6JnExOJXSLi1bdFxPZQMij7kDWE8Gbpm0jseJ01IHd8u_KFdZ-FLFyqZ-_oa6Uj-gdoNJ4xxkO_2YgJc7y9aUwvCZb2ZvXfaWFwqAXEV55N0gfefepT1TpM/s640/P1060880.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinM2Gb1Z-sTgqT_cZF_XHu65I_TmcM57P58UzLbTQZRm8RQMcExvguJ12ly9jqysj-p7zHeAzAlB32JILiHkxcipqSeUn554bXcIHLdhzpPRfMEkU_opYaZT34N90Skk7MwOWdCrNnMw0/s640/P1060882.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<b>7. Thriving Art. </b>This addition to my "Fall collection" is by far my favorite...and the most cost effective. Since the boys and I do art sessions pretty regularly it is easy to throw in some seasonal projects. This year, using my favorite non-toxic, water based finger paint (which was a phenom investment at Target for $10) we used fall colors to do some hand prints and smears. Once they hung to dry I simply cut them out in the shape of an autumn leaf and boom! Perfect art to add to the gallery!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76IwTuCGs5YxRnX3xUvjCRI4WGmCMVurIzPbqpl4BbK-agyWulxzSknpuPwUbg9Q1yGjHqDYimBVSNfwGq9cudJ-H-Z45bO-Z-LRZ3b9J-Re1oJtTgzngNWjLh2ipCa1Pc6jS7l6JyZc/s640/P1060884.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcPQE26azxGihuIJyOixQLSJYyklVzW7_Kh_aXz69GFqGxEyxeK9kDdKOgmWy6aV-gTuYuuawdHJordor7srvtA6bAY2-eS82ZjrDcERdTLHxbr_1ymphjMUdqt_23f54dq4UGp2R-5kg/s640/P1060885.JPG" width="480" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>8. Fall Candle. </b>My Thriving Mommy and I have yet to get around to making an Autumn collection of our <a href="http://www.thriving-wives.com/2016/01/diy-candles.html">DIY candles</a>, so I head to Target for their soy candles in my favorite scents. I can honestly tell you I burn these nonstop and am obsessed with how they make my entire home smell amazing! These are a must have when you do your Fall-fromation for sure!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHMmFTjsDOV6VQNneIXLdqtfkzBRiRKkAIS1cniGmjVHL2H3b7i4kqGAF1SVxy7Y4A5id5hekuordvPMPZWUOZxIMLoA4J8UJ54Id9o_Yyq1SmDwc3ieZRB94KUkpbByBZISpFchVYhY/s640/P1060872.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With my house in FALL swing inside and Halloween showcased outside there is only one thing left to do, enjoy it all and wait for my fourth little man to join in all the autumn fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What are your favorite Fall accents to add to your home?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-16315797962993147352018-09-19T09:00:00.000-07:002018-09-19T09:00:08.417-07:00How to Prepare for Lying In - A Postpartum Must<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdY2XU7by3oq6wXTRa2XqrCHLAegRU-oI6SHgZbJIoyipceopks3YWq_U8FTxOP7z6FVwF9PYbV14n8_sS1QWFUTS6EPJoe_vfQQGTB3rLAjr3YhP_ybOankgQKAuPdHQtFGSLobUGgOM/s640/lying+in.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
The rush of having a new baby is truly euphoric. The transformation of pregnancy, the pure magic in the experience of birth and the incredible emotion that takes over when you hold that sweet baby for the first time. A whole new life for you and baby is beginning.<br />
<br />
That new life needs to begin with rest, healing and nourishing your miraculous body for all she has accomplished. Not getting home and throwing in a quick load of laundry before heading to Costco because you are out of milk *ahem, yes, I am talking to you...well myself that is*<br />
<br />
Sadly, my last time around looked more like me getting home with a newborn, leaving him with his Daddy and big brothers while I quickly rinsed off the hospital cooties and freshened up my lady parts. and racing to unpack After a nurse session with my sweet baby, I hopped up, cleaned up the house a bit from my two day absence and started making dinner. BIG MISTAKE. Newsflash, you JUST HAD A BABY LIKE 48 HOURS AGO!! YOU NEED TO CHILL THE F OUT.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGVAzSTc3HX3MJmaU5PP_ErNw6eOmJrpBoMxF86BvyBCQpwdTJogotfiD1jICHbTLHUSLaIwZcerdUEZ4aN1-vqwwSjAOb8SVCqNhwF0GFiqBIY3H7A7bBR4jhApDZSs-CCL_8qGhpQc/s400/IMG_3421.JPG" width="300" /></div>
<br />
Thankfully this time around I am ready to apply what I've learned and the use the incredible struggles I faced previously to approach this postpartum recovery differently. I am going to put myself and baby first. The house will be fine if it is not maintained to my OCD/anal standards. The kids will continue to thrive with their Daddy and Maj taking care of their daily needs. The laundry will still get done, the dishes will be washed and everyone, yes everyone will survive. (This is my new mantra. I say it on repeat to calm my anxieties).<br />
<br />
When I entered my third trimester, the time came to really develop my postpartum plan of attack. I was so grateful to have been given an amazing resource to help me achieve my new goals. I was also flabbergasted to realize that this "mommy bedroom vacation" I was dreaming up was in fact a legit thing that had been celebrated throughout cultures ,across the world for centuries. How had I missed that?!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1617691836/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1617691836&linkCode=as2&tag=thrivingwives-20&linkId=19305bcb0412c557d9e37853c4472d6e" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=1617691836&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thrivingwives-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK & BUY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />My MBV (Mommy Bedroom Vacation) was actually referred to as Lying-In. A time to rest, heal and bond with your newborn. When <a href="https://www.amazon.com/First-Forty-Days-Essential-Nourishing/dp/1617691836/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1537222136&sr=8-1&keywords=first+forty+days">The First Forty Days</a> was sent to me as a part of my trimesterly Mama's Bump Squad package, it felt like the sky had opened and Earth Mama sent me a gift from Heaven.<br />
<br />
Well, that was that! I was ready to start sharing my new found knowledge and preparing for my Lying-In period. I was going to force myself to slow down and was actually looking forward to being able to accept that this needed to happen and I was the one who needed to make it happen.<br />
<br />
So, now, how to prepare for this amazing experience...<br />
<br />
<b>1. CREATE A PLAN. </b>To make this even easier, <a href="http://earthmamalyingin.com/earth-mama-free-lying-postpartum-plan/">Earth Mama</a> provides not only excellent information on the process as a whole, but also has a <a href="http://earthmamalyingin.com/earth-mama-free-lying-postpartum-plan/">FREE and easy fillable document </a>that prints into a lovely PDF for you and your support team to reference. Now you have an outline to discuss with your support team and have your goals ready to share!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh397gJCjoeghFUKbNX1dijozfUBlnTlynp7aX2v72r-wwjikSCvNTbyJyPJJy7PE7Emnr9FawVKbsPm36D8PCtb4GKOotoJCshVMdTKRughl562X_li7ck62YKpDEvCDIg0X1puLNRrZ8/s400/IMG_3306.jpg" width="300" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>2. GET YOUR SUPPORT TEAM UP TO DATE ON SAID PLAN. </b>Obviously I knew my husband and Thriving Mommy were going to be the key players, so that was easy to establish. Having a plan for everyone to reference with what I saw for my week of bed rest and slow re-entrance into full mommy-ness made it easy for us to get on the same page. Since my main concern is my three little guys, it was good for me to be able to delegate responsibilities and discuss how I saw each person fulfilling the role I hoped they wouldn't mind assuming for a bit.<br />
<br />
<b>3. HOUSE/KID PREP. </b>Channel all that pregnancy nesting into lists, tasks and getting organized for you to be out of commission. My goal is one week, which to me will feel like one year. I can barely handle sitting still for one hour let alone one week, but again, this is about healing...which considering I was up at about only two days after my C-section screams that I have a problem and need to rest. Get the house cleaned, the laundry done, sheets changed, kids foods/snacks restocked, menus made and any and all notes prepared for your team. The last thing you want is to be disrupted 300 times a day asking where the extra goldfish crackers are. Make sure everyone has access to your kid's schedule and that they know what they need/have to do. For example, Tuesday, sports camp. Kids need to be ready to go with athletic attire at 8:50am, snacks and water packed for after. Dude needs his own ball so he doesn't disrupt the activity... You can never be too prepared, trust.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEHbF1YXG6ynPrqbki4064ROMotVBw7e_4uh7D0qLgsftt-y9ZUjIlF6JM8MbaC6zmbaxYL2kHZZJIwpJbSyo9-g_kmPeV0hjRbDDzoWuoU_Dk8VSJIB5VltagzYQADP16b_c6tL-idD8/s400/IMG_3441.JPG" width="300" /></div>
<br />
<b>4. PREPARE YOUR RECOVERY SUITE.</b> Remember that time my husband got a vasectomy and had an amazing, calm, healing recovery suite all to himself for the weekend? Well take that times 1,000 and that is what you should get mommy! I will be staying in our bedroom which is slightly more tricky as the boys will have easy access to me and I will get to hear all their squeals/daily squabbles a they yell throughout the house, but everything is here where I need it. I am not packing bags to move downstairs, way too much.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpzXpFGEoed0NH5DvPp4wQYgS0QIxxn0Z2Z74PH3-mIArzEbjvJcZc5_B5hsXCHRg64Sw04MR8wltVu5bBHtEMmWXQjBkcoXIDJdPcaKrsQnYGCUqps80Ps4v9UUxD9Ba5kXqbXTRa3yw/s400/IMG_3440.JPG" width="300" /></div>
<br />
I did vamp it up a bit, adding an extra bedside table with all my baby/mommy necessities (nipple butter, single manual pump, diapers, booby tubes, iPad, kleenex...the list goes on). I also have my "eating in bed tray" for constant calorie consumption of healing, nourishing foods (my mommy is all over that). I moved the changing table and little baby chair in my room for when I need to stand up for a second and/or take a quick shower. My linens are changed, my room is clean and I am ready to seclude myself into a sanctuary of healing and connecting with my last baby boy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXLy7PeoO-iZ1pRUhwh__cdcS699HlMsRLRB9jJ1curzr1UBsvyCQk0vrRSEp1D-hL18JEOdCz3hwJcPWVFymm_vdlQLRMHuAwWYGVO6nne65smesZ_QXADJiB4x8H-Q4Me3RahiwoNs/s400/IMG_3143.jpg" width="300" /></div>
<br />
<b>5. ALLOW IT TO HAPPEN.</b> Now you are ready. You have your plan, you have done the leg work to prepare, you are set up and ready for action. Here comes the hardest part (especially for me), allowing it to happen. Allow yourself to let go of all those constant tugs at your mommy brain and let chaos ensue. Remember, it can and will all be put back again. So what if your kids eat In N Out for a week straight, worse things have happened. You will soon emerge from your recovery suite with a well adjusted, breast feeding champion baby and a stronger, healthier body ready to get your kids back on Spinach and Kale and into clean clothes. It will be alright.<br />
<br />
Truly savor this time as it is so important and so necessary. You can do this mommy!<br />
<br />
Are you ready to help yourself or a loved one with their lying-in period? What an incredible way for women to support one another through the greatest miracle of all...motherhood!<br />
<br />
Don't miss my IGTV episode on the topic too!!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Stive to Thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-55516097696824505792018-09-12T09:00:00.000-07:002018-09-12T09:00:03.898-07:005 of my Favorite Hospital Essentials<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9mPtWwiF0zE-N4H_z6fUJ-5g6vKbAXlerNQRw5K82TAfYyMOzat9STvVk-EG3uChA-xaU7ObivOWw4OQG_AbjkXWiET8Rp4xbkTVQ2wJPqpSMs1_B0ZTUjKxZVvDj4Ry6TAmL22w1uE/s640/5+hospital+essentials+I+could+not+be+without.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
It's time to get ready to welcome Richie!! We are two weeks out and thankfully we are packed and loaded. Game time here we come!<br />
<br />
I am a proud over packer and feel no shame appearing as though I might be moving wherever I go. I HATE needing something, so I make sure to take everything. Even if I don't use it all, at least I have it...just in case.<br />
<br />
The hospital is no different, I do not want to nee something that I hesitated to pack. I know this, I plan for this and I am always happy I overpacked because I rarely want for anything...aside from a cool glass of rosé. Just kidding. Kind of.<br />
<br />
But in reality, aside from all the cozy clothes, all the fresh linens I bring from home and all the other millions of items I can't live without, these 5 essentials I would never forget!<br />
<br />
PS, I did not include my best friend/barf bowl on this list, but please know she is by far NUMBER 1.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4as8B95N9FaDwxgsYtRT8Go9IOp5ZeZraDMa-02C5CXFHgBqA17bAc7n8ksLstum46ta_TeOcNh-vCGZfWdkEiDsZto7zKhfv48THkdTQ1wLlo0o48KsWObLMFGre4H4kwtJOlij_h4o/s400/ROBE.jpeg" width="400" /></div>
<br />
1. SWEET/SASSY ROBE. Those first pictures with that fresh baby can go one of two ways. You can look like a hot tired mess who just went through the marathon of birth. OR you can look like a hot tired mess who just went through the marathon of birth...but has a <a href="https://www.target.com/p/women-s-floral-print-satin-robe-gilligan-o-malley-153-cream/-/A-53677267?preselect=53574106#lnk=sametab">great robe on</a>. I choose the second option. Since I birth in only a bralette (if that), what I put on for those first few pictures (aside from blending the sweat into my hair and applying some fresh chapstick) is muy importante. I always opt for something that is A. Comfortable and B. Photo worthy, which for me, usually means florals. It is like an instant "freshen" and photo ready move to make...way cuter than any gross hospital gown in my opinion.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F75YNYX/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B07F75YNYX&linkCode=as2&tag=thrivingwives-20&linkId=0fc6a17cbb2d0cb2349745a949662d60" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B07F75YNYX&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thrivingwives-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK & BUY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thrivingwives-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B07F75YNYX" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2. SLIPPERS. Cooties are gross. Hospital cooties are the grossest. I keep my slippers right at next to that bed and slip them on and off for my bathroom trips. Clean feet = clean bed = happy mommy. I like my toes free and these floral cuties (with bow of course) are light weight, easy to fold/pack as needed and after a good wash can be re-worn once you get home.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GR3YMWA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01GR3YMWA&linkCode=as2&tag=thrivingwives-20&linkId=33d32a5708e736ee0a7d83cbf7119915" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B01GR3YMWA&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thrivingwives-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK & BUY!<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thrivingwives-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B01GR3YMWA" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
3. 40 BLINKS EYE MASK. Now this is not just a hospital favorite for me, but a life favorite. However, in the case of my hospital trip, it is great to block out stimuli during labor AND great to wear after when you want to send those sweet nurses a hard message to please, kindly F off and let you sleep in peace and darkness. Lash friendly, great price and wonderful when you want to "black out" and relax.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EIC2UY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000EIC2UY&linkCode=as2&tag=thrivingwives-20&linkId=708cefbeee0ca1c0b5518e99093efa57" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B000EIC2UY&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thrivingwives-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK & BUY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=thrivingwives-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B000EIC2UY" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
4. EARTH MAMA PERINEAL BALM. Birth does quite a little number on your lady parts, as it should. I mean a human AND self created organ are leaving your body, so obvi it's going to be a little swollen for a bit. Thankfully, that magic vag muscle goes back, but while you wait for that to happen, why not alleviate some of that discomfort. This balm (you can get the spray too...it is like a spa day for down unda) makes it allllll better while nature takes its healing course. </div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JVCBBG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000JVCBBG&linkCode=as2&tag=thrivingwives-20&linkId=57464faff013ecf07a792f6526ea2c89" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B000JVCBBG&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=thrivingwives-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLICK & BUY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
5. EARTH MAMA NIPPLE BUTTER. Those of us who have breastfed in the past know that those first few weeks can be absolute torture!! Turning those nipples into leather is no easy feat and I am thrilled to be using this nipple butter yet again to make the process not so absolutely, positively miserable. Best of all it is not only super safe for mommy but baby too! No more having to wipe off raw nipples coated in lanolin while the baby goes back for seconds, thirds and pretty much sucks around the clock. Earth Mama does it again as always!<br />
<br />
While I could continue this list forever, I will spare you and let you watch the details unfold on InstaTV. Season 1, Episode 3 in the Birth-y series is ready to be watched my Thrivers! Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
</div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3689079203673429241.post-15325058649602130112018-09-05T09:00:00.000-07:002018-09-05T09:00:03.814-07:006 Ways to Prepare for a Thriving VBAC<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRxSwkO5HI81orOkkqLD8XO6n6zJ7xeCWHJyKpMHF0gV80-eFj4lVVq4x44AEPCh2Sdh2L36_qMrowj3iBwU3371-7oDr4tp1KYcwEGSbx83jPTdbPGep3QO5gShZx-BsWXV3z29fr_o/s640/How+to+prepare+1.png" width="640" /></div>
<br />
I am very open and honest about my <a href="http://www.thriving-wives.com/2014/08/a-labor-of-love-meet-clarke-jr.html">first birth experience </a>and how it was NOT at all what I wanted, prepared or planned for. While I knew that "special circumstances" could arise (especially with twins) and had said the affirmation over and over, I still hoped I wouldn't have go through a C-section, but I did.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, with Dude, I was dedicated to making all my birth dreams come true. Starting with of course, him coming out of my lady parts. And that is exactly what he did. He was my birth dream come true (in terms of goals. Trust, it was no walk on the beach...unless your version of the beach is a lot of vomit). I successfully had the <a href="http://www.thriving-wives.com/2016/11/macs-birth-story.html">unmedicated VBAC</a> I had set out to achieve.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2yofcF9bj3YMcMMCykwSw2d1C8L8lT_61kVe8oE6Byvf7DdctDPHD-xfvi4_PIGbEcrCpbp31MXKQ09czYg3cYK9Z2a6XFjUR-lxzSTXE3PjgfTsd0ErfPFj4VV6HIWExFh8Ouv2JGkU/s1600/nurse.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<b>What is a VBAC you ask?</b><br />
<br />
VBAC stands for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean. While I thought this was no big thang, I was in fact quite wrong. Maybe this was because whenever I talked about my next birth being totally different people "seemed" supportive. Maybe it was because I had laser-beam focus and was so committed to a natural, vaginal birth that I didn't realize that people weren't all that supportive. Whatever it was, it was not an easy task to find a doctor to take me on the first time around.<br />
<br />
I had reached out to a number of local doctors and was denied by all of them, apparently having a VBAC was not an option in my "rural" community.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJThapRhyphenhyphenEA8b2kv7DcMBlpSOH9NU1HWxspkLkLQa4nUQd51XMAL8qflX6ca_Mu7WjQIKtaxt9glKc74AUbVgeKSd9J2ik3LuwW3wh_hxEPudcRyH2lycFiP8arPM2fxCTwrbw3Op6a4/s640/let.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
I was incredibly upset and thankfully had a locked and loaded birth guru in my corner 24/7, my doula and TW Nic. She hooked me up with some resources to check out (first on the list, <a href="http://www.ican-online.org/">ICAN, International Cesarean Awareness Network.</a>) and I eventually found the doctor of my dreams, only a short drive away in San Diego. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KST0X5nS3QnJYMplnzm3bgTaBYMIq7HQeJDF24slQzqyNoRCVnothuwXeys2cgv2ncz3bMLF3X2HBJPBhEY5DcZSJ0auxqZrLmy8cLtVu-T3erMp6rttaT3CB906pm9qaPOme_yxubY/s1600/ICAN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KST0X5nS3QnJYMplnzm3bgTaBYMIq7HQeJDF24slQzqyNoRCVnothuwXeys2cgv2ncz3bMLF3X2HBJPBhEY5DcZSJ0auxqZrLmy8cLtVu-T3erMp6rttaT3CB906pm9qaPOme_yxubY/s1600/ICAN.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
After successfully having Dude, I figured I would be like any other pregnant chick and no one would look at me twice when I said I was GOING to have my baby vaginally. Nooooot so much.<br />
<br />
I again found myself fighting for the right to birth the baby inside MY body how I wanted. I gave a local doctor a good run in an effort to make it easier on myself and my boys (the appointments in San Diego can be tricky with so many kids not to mention my husband's panic about the hospital being nearly an hour away), but halfway through my pregnancy I realized that it was far more important to be supported unconditionally and went back with my AMAZING Dr. Cap.<br />
<br />
So while I am ready for this guy to make his smooth, easy exit from my body in a few short weeks, I also know that not everyone is as lucky as I am when it comes to finding a match to support you and your wishes for birth.<br />
<br />
With that said...<br />
<br />
<b>Here are my suggestions on how to best prepare for a VBAC - </b><br />
<ul>
<li><b>Educate Yourself. </b>Apparently there are some safety concerns surrounding VBACs (this was news to me of course), like uterine rupture. Well, the research indicates that the possibility of that is less than 1%. A risk I am more than willing to take. However, not all women feel the same which is of course understandable. But, take the time to educate yourself with evidence based research and make sure you are confident moving forward in whatever path you choose for you and your baby. </li>
<li><b>Take Classes. </b>As a second time around mommy, I assumed I didn't need any classes besides a little <a href="http://www.hypnobirthingoc.com/about-hypnobirthing">HypnoBirthing</a> refresher. Well, I was wrong. Not only did I freshen up on my Hypno skills but I also took an amazing class designed for VBAC moms. Not only was the class incredibly therapeutic as we connected and shared our stories, but it provided more information to boost my confidence levels even higher. I also took a <a href="http://birtheducationcenter.com/Comfort_Measures.html">Labor Comfort Measures </a>class which allowed my TH and I to re-create what we saw for our next experience. The <a href="http://birtheducationcenter.com/Home_Page.html">Birth Education Center</a> of San Diego was an excellent resource and Care is an absolute dream!! Now that I am going in again, I didn't take the classes and more centered my mind around what was going to happen and refreshed some of my Hypno skills. </li>
<li><b>Release. </b>I still have some negative memories with the twins birth (back labor nightmare) that sometimes haunts me, but I have to let it go. I try and focus on all the positive things that happened during Dude's labor and imagine that it will be the same...but faster! And he was FAST!</li>
<li><b>Create A New Experience. </b>I am now sending energy to my new experience. <i>I see myself starting to feel surges and welcome them calmly. I let my family know it is time to go, kiss the boys and slowly walk to the car. We make an easy drive to the hospital, I get checked in, relax into my body and my baby...and two minutes later I am engaging in my favorite part of the whole experience...breathing him out and feeling him leave my body along with my purple leg syndrome...</i></li>
<li><b>Find Support. </b>Every pregnancy is different and every mother requires a different level of support. Since I had found a doctor who I trusted completely I knew the only other birth support person I needed besides my TH was a doula. <a href="http://www.hypnobirthingoc.com/birth-doula">My doula, Nic. </a>I cannot recommend a doula enough. Granted, I am lucky enough to have a doula wrapped in a bestie, but this service is truly one I wouldn't want to be without. Having someone there to help not only you, but also your partner is huge. Whatever support you feel you need, you should get. It is well worth the investment.</li>
<li><b>Get excited. </b>Every birth is different and should be treated as such. For those of us who desperately want a VBAC (or a second one), this is the time to get super excited. I know I can do this, I've done it before. I know things may arise, but I am choosing to send energy to a smooth/easy birth...did I mention fast too?</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQYNc4_h_5m9X37PE9THF23tCmUJvRaPWH_J0MEoObRPfTfzHG0KBl0j9MhHC8c9RrmLcxcHDdT5pPJX7BijA0dfA-AqAqoVxlaGHluJ4PM9O_Gl6WE24iK7M5-ndy1BohQc9fWV0ZPOs/s640/VBAC+1.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Whether or not you want to be a repeat cesarean mommy, have a VBAC or pretend the baby will never come out and do nothing to prepare, just make sure the choice is yours. There is no wrong way to bring a baby from a loving womb into a loving mommy's arms. From my experience, I never want anyone to feel the self-doubt, despair and confusion I did before having Dude. I refused to accept someone telling me what was best for me and my baby. Remember to trust your body, your instincts and follow your gut. We are strong, powerful Thriving Women who have been given the gift of co-creating, sustaining and delivering HUMAN LIFE. I mean, is there anything more freaking cool than that?! I think not. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I look forward to sharing my birth story in the upcoming weeks as I welcome my last sweet baby boy. I am hoping to help other Thriving Mommies take another look at their birth choices and find the strength I momentarily lost...then got back ten fold when I made that VBAC my b*%@#.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>*Here are some additional resources that I found helpful and empowering**</i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://vbacfacts.com/">VBAC FACTS</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.birthwithoutfear.com/">BIRTH WITHOUT FEAR</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b> <a href="https://improvingbirth.org/">IMPROVING BIRTH</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://evidencebasedbirth.com/">EVIDENCE BASED BIRTH</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Strive to thrive, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Em</i></div>
</div>
thriving wiveshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12071154332856123207noreply@blogger.com0