Mamavation Monday: Importance of a Community

It has been a long time, it seems, since I posted a Mamavation Monday update. I’ve been just a little busy, and I’d say “doggy paddling” barely explains my level of struggle to keep up.

In December, I posted by goals for this year. I’m trying to meet each of them but thought I’d update today. My plan is to continue with Monday updates even if they are really short. Thank you for indulging me and reading!

Goal 1: Lose 14 pounds by the end of the year to reach my goal weight – Well, I’ve gained 4 since I wrote that, so I’m looking now at 18 pounds to lose. I know what I’m doing wrong — I’m allowing myself to go too far between meals, not eating balanced meals, and snacking on less than desirable snacks. So, I’m starting back on my Mamavation Bootcamp diet effective immediately. That will mean three good meals with small snacks in between. I’m still breastfeeding, so I feel like the plan that was created for me will still be a good one.

Goal 2: Participate in 14 5ks in 2014 – I’m doing pretty well here. I’ve already completed 2. The first was a little rough because I barely trained to get ready. I still finished in just over 40 minutes. The second was much better because I felt stronger. I even placed in my age category (first place!). Granted, I was the only one in my age category, but getting that medal was great motivation. Last week, I even went out in my neighborhood and just started running. I did a 5k in 35:01. Wow. I didn’t know my body could do that. So, now I’m in the mood to keep training!

Goal 3: Have at least 3 book signings for my book – I haven’t had even one yet, but I’m prepared to get talking to some elementary schools and local book stores. Part of my hesitation has been Flash who wasn’t doing well when I wasn’t home (breastfeeding!), but now he’s able to hang without me for a little longer. Time to get moving on this goal!

Goal 4: Wear actual shorts this summer – It’s only March, so I have some for this goal. I know that continuing the running will help my legs look and feel more toned.

Goal 5: Create an organizational routine for my life – It’s getting there. Now that Flash is on a pretty decent schedule and I’m used to the Animal not taking a morning nap, I’m figuring out ways to prioritize my time and get things done. It’s all about finding a routine. I’m getting there. I feel less and less hairy (most days)!

Goal 6: Weekly meal plans for the family – I did this last week. It helped so much when I went to the store and when I was planning dinner each night. I wasn’t so good about it before I went shopping yesterday, but I made certain that I bought all the basics for some basic meals like enchiladas, spaghetti, pork chops. I even bought a precooked rotisserie chicken so that dance night — when I’m not here to prepare things — would be that much simpler.

Goal 7: Expand my essential oils knowledge – I’m working on this one! I have downloaded a few ebooks, and I’m reading when I can to learn how and why certain oils make the most sense at a certain time. I still want to make my own laundry detergent, deodorant, and house cleaner. I just need to do it.

My community of Mamavation has really inspired me to keep motivated and keep trying. I know that when I stumble, I have a group of ladies (and one awesome Mr. Bookieboo) who will pick me back up and cheer me on. One of my favorite mantras of the group is that no one is perfect, and we are all at different places.

If you haven’t checked out Mamavation, be sure to. Tonight, we’re having a slumber party for Mamavation TV. It’s something we do once in a while to reconnect and hang out. There are even some really awesome prizes. Simply Aroma is sponsoring our giveaway this week, and the prizes are HUGE. If you can, be sure to hang out with us tonight at 6pm PST/9pm EST!

Tags: goals, mamavation monday, running, updates