We interrupt this children's blog for some mommy time!

56 days into 2012, and I've yet to blog. This should tell you two things.

1.) Bad blogger

2.) Busy momma

Before I take the time to update on my babes - I'm going to hog their blog with a little mommy update. Ok, maybe a long mommy update.

Resolution #1 - Lose Baby Weight = Check!

Since Dec. 28th (when I started my "myfitnesspal" account) - I've lost 11 pounds. To what do I credit this success? Let me list it for you!

This list is not meant to be a "how-to" - but rather a reminder for myself if I ever lose track and the weight starts creeping up again. Let's be realistic - this will happen.

1. Move your body. Apparently that whole "exercise is good" idea is true. However, more importantly, you have to find something you love to do. I have always loved dancing. In fact, the skinniest I've ever been in my adult life - was when I was in college and dancing the night away 2-3 nights a week. Which brings us to my next helpful tip.

2. Zumba! Where else can a grown, married woman shake what her mama gave her and drop it like it's hot without judgement?

3. Even if it's just for 3 minutes, get a work out in. I cannot Zumba my full set-list everyday. But, if I can quick practice a song while cooking dinner and my boys are playing nicely - that's 3 minutes of cardio and my heart rate stays up for a little while. Do that 2-3 times a night, and hey - that's enough work out to help!

4. Schedule 1 butt kicking workout time a week. I know that the 2 hours I teach Zumba on Thursdays gives my metabolism a jump-kick for the weekend ahead.

5. Now to the hardest part, food. My first step was portion control. Example: 2 pieces of pizza instead of 4. Yes, I was starving for 2 weeks. And very grumpy. But once your stomach adjusts, life is good again. I promise! (do not start this attempt when you're about to get your monthly visitor. that's just setting yourself up for failure)

6. Lean Cuisine and Smart Ones. I replaced my daily lunches that were leftovers from the dinner before (so basically, dinner for lunch) - with these frozen meals. I usually add a yogurt or applesauce in there too. Healthiest option? No. But it works for me.

7. Do not deny yourself your cravings. Again, that's set yourself up for failure. Just eat less. 3 broccoli balls instead of 8.

8. Diet Soda. Self-explanatory.

9. Last but not least - try on your skinny jeans once a week. At first you will be motivated to get into them again - and each week when you can fit a bit more (first a calf, then a thigh, then one butt cheek, ... you get the picture) you'll feel better. I did this with my size 12's - which I can now wear comfortably. Since I have purchased two jeans at a super great deal - but they were all out of my size - so I bought the size smaller. When they were delivered in November, I could barely fit one leg in. Now I can put them all the way on - but still can't zip/button.

Next mommy update - I will be wearing those jeans!