Fit Tip Thursday's

Week #3 - Exercise can be easy, fun, and only take a few minutes

Exercise: the dreaded word many of us hate to hear! Hello!!! You’re in a biggest loser contest, have you watched the show? They exercise! It’s easier said than done when we all have jobs, families, kids, sleep, etc. taking up all of our time. Here is a way to fit in some exercises that won’t take up much time, but if you start now and are disciplined you will see results by the end of the contest. Pick 3 exercises, only 3 (suggestions below). Make this part of your night time routine, right after you brush your teeth, every night! If you haven’t exercised for a long time start with 1 set of each, if you’re up for more do 2 or 3 sets, but not more than 3. Completing 3 sets of 3 basic exercises will take you less than 10 minutes, for most of you less than 5. You probably won’t even work up a sweat but you will be slowly building your muscles. Time to pick your 3!

Sit-ups

Crunches

Push Ups

Stationary Lunges

Squat Thrusts

These are all simple exercises that don’t require equipment, only a floor. If you want other ideas try Google “couch exercises” or “exercises without equipment”. Remember the key is to pick 3 and keep it to 5-10 minutes (otherwise you’ll go back to what you do now…nothing)

Easter 2011

Most toddlers scream at the thought of mommy putting them on the lap of a big white scary looking fur ball. Gavin LOVES the Easter Bunny!! Couldn't get enough of him. We went to two egg hunts, one on Saturday and one on Sunday. The line for kids to see the Easter Bunny was about 25 kids long, Gavin left our side and ran right up to the furry friend. E.B. picked Gavin up and put him on his lap - so much for waiting in line. We snapped a few pictures and quickly left.

We also had a hunt in our backyard for Gavin. He did great, found all the eggs (well at least all of the ones that daddy remember where he hid them). We had a really nice brunch and enjoyed the rest of the day relaxing.

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter too!

Scrumptious Sundays

Fettuccine with Mushrooms and Hazelnuts

Cooking Light - Jan/Feb 2011

Very rarely does a "Pasta of the Month" recipe go unnoticed at our house. We use the excuse that it would be a great pre-race recipe...and then we make it no where near a race. This was also featured as a superfast recipe. I would say easily took less than 20 minutes to make, partnered with a fresh veggie - it was a great meal!

Roasted/chopped hazelnuts - slice garlic - pre-sliced mushrooms

Fresh pasta, we bought Buitoni kept in the refrigerated section at our grocery store.

When a recipe calls for fresh herbs, 99% of the time we make a point of buying fresh. It really does make a difference.

YIELD: 4 servings (serving size: about 1 1/2 cups pasta mixture, about 2 tablespoons cheese, and 1 tablespoon hazelnuts)

Ingredients

1. 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated fresh fettuccine
2. 1 tablespoon butter (we use olive oil)
3. 1/4 cup chopped blanched hazelnuts
4. 1 tablespoon olive oil
5. 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
6. 3 (4-ounce) packages presliced exotic mushroom blend
7. 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
8. 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
9. 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage
10. 2 ounces Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, shaved
11. 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives

Preparation

1. 1. Cook the pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain in a colander over a bowl, reserving 3/4 cup cooking liquid.
2. 2. While water for pasta comes to a boil, melt butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add hazelnuts to pan; sauté for 3 minutes or until toasted and fragrant. Remove from pan with a slotted spoon. Add oil to pan, and swirl to coat. Add garlic and mushrooms to pan; sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and black pepper. Sauté mushroom mixture for 5 minutes; stir in sage. Add pasta, reserved cooking liquid, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt to pan; toss well to combine. Remove from heat; top with cheese, toasted hazelnuts, and chives.

Hazelnuts aren't easy to find and can be very expensive. We went to Sprouts where they sell them in the bulk. For a large handful it was only a few dollars.

Fit Tip Thursday's

Oops, we're a day late this week. We were traveling this week so that's our excuse. I promise this tip is worth the wait!

Week #2 Tip - MILK DOES A BODY GOOD!

It's so true! We love milk at the Hendricks house. As a matter of fact we're sitting here enjoying our morning milk as we (Gavin & Mommy) play on our computers. Gavin's washing his milk down with a few Cheerios as well. Milk is one of the best muscle foods on the planet, it's true! You can read lots of articles about it, but take our word for it. Add a glass of milk to your diet each day; it's really great to down a small glass of skim milk after a work out. Not a fan of milk? It's okay lots of people aren't. Try chocolate milk, it adds a few more calories - but it can be a fun sweet treat after a hard work out or long day. And if it gets you drinking milk, just do it! Or if you want a real frosty treat, try a protein shake: peanut butter, banana, and chocolate all in a delicious sip....mmmm!

COFFEE!!!!

Yes that's the 20 month old drinking java! Smart mom thought, oh one sip and he'll think...ick! "More, more, more" was the phrase I believe he said after his first sip. He truly is a garbage disposal, eats anything.

PS - at least it was decaf

Scrumptious Sundays

*{Side Dish of the Month}*

featured in the April Cooking Light magazine.

Asparagus with Balsamic Tomatoes

This recipe was so good, we could eat it every day. Asparagus is in season right now, inexpensive and so good when you start experimenting just a little. This will be a favorite on our dinner table for years to come!! If you click on the link there are several variations listed as well, we have yet to try these but we're guessing they are just as delicious. (Raisin & Pine Nut, Sesame-Ginger Glazed, and Lemon-Tarragon).

Ingredients

1. 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
2. 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
3. 1 1/2 cups halved grape tomatoes
4. 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
5. 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
6. 1/4 teaspoon salt
7. 3 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese
8. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

1. 1. Cook asparagus in boiling water 2 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain.
2. 2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes and garlic; cook 5 minutes. Stir in vinegar; cook 3 minutes. Stir in salt. Arrange asparagus on a platter; top with tomato mixture. Sprinkle with cheese and pepper.
3. Raisin and Pine Nut variation: Omit tomatoes, garlic, vinegar, and goat cheese. Cook 1/3 cup sliced red onion and 2 tablespoons pine nuts in oil for 4 minutes. Add 2 1/2 tablespoons orange juice, 3 tablespoons raisins, and 2 teaspoons honey; cook 2 minutes. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon orange rind. Spoon over asparagus; sprinkle with pepper. Yield: 4 servings.
4. Calories 111; Fat 5.3g (sat 0.6g); Sodium 151mg

Phoenix Golf Tournament

This was the 10th Annual Golf Tournament for the Phoenix branches at PCI/Masthead. Barb happened to be in town this year and was able to volunteer. The pictures are courtesy of Samara Link. Barb volunteered as the greeter (bossing people to the registration table and breakfast burritos), cigar lady, putting contest, and helped with raffle prizes. It was a fun event and a great group of ladies to work with! They put in a lot of hard work to make this happen and it is always a success. The weather was not typical Phoenix sunny, warm conditions - but we survived.

Fit Tip Thursday's

OK so I'm [Barb] in this Biggest Loser Contest with some old friends from Spokane. Congrats to me I lost 2 lbs the first week!! I decided to think of one small change each week to help with my weight loss. If you do too much at once it can often be discouraging and not enjoyable. I think the contest is for 10 weeks. So that's 10 tips/changes I need to make. I decided I would blog about them just in case you get inspired to make some healthy changes in your life.

Week #1 Tip - Drink More Water

ICK!! How many times have you heard that? I hate drinking water!! I would much rather drink...well anything besides water. This week I found a way that keeps me guzzling 72+ ounces a day. MINT. That's right, I add a sprig of mint to my water and it is so cool and refreshing it keeps me wanting more, more, more. Herb at the grocery store can be expensive and Spring has sprung almost all around the country, so...go to your local nursery and buy yourself a mint plant. **tip** you should plant it in it's own pot/barrel. Mint will take over your flower bed, garden, and yard if you don't keep it contained. Trim a piece off each day & add your your water, the mint flavor will last all day long, I even used the same piece 2 days in a row. For a twist on this yummy hint of flavor try adding cucumber, strawberry, or citrus to your water - or any combination of them all. Delicious! Your body will thank you.

Swimming Season Has Begun

Taking pictures with a toddler who is crazy for the pool isn't easy. Jason was able to snap a few on the cell phone before Gavin went plunging into the pool. We did get some video too that we'll try to post soon. Gavin loves, loves, loves the pool. He has absolutely no fear - which is why he has a life jacket on. He would jump in without anyone around if we weren't watching. Should be a fun & very busy summer at the pool.

Growing

What a difference a year makes. The little butter ball baby on the left has turned into quite the handsome little toddler on the right. He is mommy's favorite shopping partner!!

Medela Breast Pump Power Cord Recall

Recently I was notified regarding a recall on the "Pump In Style" breast pump power cord. I know several of my friends recommended this pump to me so I wanted to make sure and share the information regarding the recall. Not all power adaptors are effected so please read the notification on the link from Medela:

Pump In Style Advance Power Cord Notification [Recall]

Scrumptious Sundays

Barb's first attempt at salmon. She called her brother Russell (the chef) to get some tips on preparing the fish and got a lot more information about fish. How to buy it, when to buy it, skin on vs. skin off, etc. Who knew fish could be so complicated. Luckily cooking it is about the easiest thing to cook.

BBQ roasted zucchini and squash with Potlatch seasoning, so simple & so delicious

Raw fish is not a pretty thing. Sprinkled with a little salt, pepper, and fresh squeezed lemon juice - that simple.

Roasted some baby red potatoes with olive oil & fresh rosemary and served a meal worthy of a restaurant. We ate dinner outside that day, it was lovely.

De Vitis - Sullivan Engagement

Jason's cousin Cole moved to Chicago, but that didn't stop his CA family from throwing a surprise engagement party. We were so lucky we happened to be in Orange County for the weekend. It was great to be able to share the special day with family!

Cole & Lauren are to be married on Sept. 24th

Cole

Lauren

Ryan & Mandi (getting married in July in Paris)

Cole & Auntie Susie

Uncle Flo

Auntie Susie & Lauren

Cousin Ella

Cousin Jonny

2011 Resolution Update

1st Quarter of 2011 came and went like a flash. As you can see Gavin is clearly ahead when it comes to resolutions - he took this serious!

Gavin 2011 Resolutions

1. Potty trained before Santa visits on 12/25/11. not interested...yet
✔ Say the alphabet to our surprise this is complete
3. Throw & catch a baseball throwing is good, catching needs some work
✔ Hit a ball off of a tee loves it and giggles every time he does it
5. Write my name if only mom & dad would give me writing utensils
✔ Continue to try new foods and eat fruits & vegetables ate pancakes for the first time
7. Learn to ride a tricycle rumor has it he might be getting one for 2nd birthday
✔ Count to 20 to our surprise this is complete
9. Participate in 3 races with mom and/or dad have my 1st in one week
10. Learn at least 10 more sign language words oops, forgot about this one
11. Move to a big boy bed (& stay there all night) mom is working on colors and theme

Barb 2011 Resolutions

✔ Attend a computer class at least once a month
2. Blog at least once a week fell short in Feb/Mar - hope to make it up
✔ Send mail or call more (not e-mail or text)
4. No more "F" word was doing well, fell off the wagon - back on again
5. Publish Cute As A Button website
6. Start a blog for Cute As A Button in progress
7. Attend sewing classes
✔ Get new participants in the running club
9. Find a way to volunteer my time in my community
10. Lose 10 pounds Starting Biggest Loser Contest tomorrow 4/7/11
11. More time at the gym took a few classes, need to take more

Jason 2011 Resolutions

1. Help with the monthly banking reconciliation Never enough time, maybe in April
✔ Setup and manage family investment accounts
3. Focus on one-on-one time with Gavin outside of the house 1st MLB game this month
4. Train and compete in the Seville Triathlon coming up in May
5. Utilize the gym more; at least twice a week
6. Help Gavin achieve his resolutions in progress
7. Setup date night once per month; 12 new restaurants missed March, but will catch up
8. Plan & take my sabbatical what's that??
✔ Help more with Gavin, taking some pressure off of Barb
10. Break 1:45 at the Seattle 1/2 Marathon and 50 minutes at Bloomsday
11. No more "F" word oops

Scrumptious Sundays

Barb's Birthday Dinner: GROWN-UP Mac N Cheese

Bacon, Ranch, and Chicken Mac and Cheese

We're always trying to find ways to make recipes just a little bit healthier. Here are a few ways we modified this one: 1) whole wheat macaroni noodles 2) turkey bacon 3) olive oil.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 slice applewood-smoked bacon
• 8 ounces skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups fat-free milk
• 1/3 cup condensed 45% reduced-sodium 98% fat-free cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
• 3/4 cup (3 ounces) shredded six-cheese Italian blend (such as Sargento)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• Cooking spray
• 1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded colby-Jack cheese

Preparation

1. Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat; drain.

2. Cook bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon from pan, reserving drippings in pan. Finely chop bacon; set aside. Increase heat to medium-high. Add chicken to drippings in pan; sauté 6 minutes or until done.

3. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat; sprinkle flour evenly into pan. Cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly with a whisk. Combine milk and soup, stirring with a whisk; gradually add milk mixture to saucepan, stirring with a whisk. Bring to a boil; cook 2 minutes or until thick. Remove from heat; let stand 4 minutes or until sauce cools to 155°. Add Italian cheese blend, onion powder, garlic powder, dill, and salt, stirring until cheese melts. Stir in pasta and chicken.

4. Preheat broiler.

5. Spoon mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle evenly with reserved bacon and colby-Jack cheese. Broil 3 minutes or until cheese melts.