It’s been four days since the start of our DietBet (P.S. there’s still time to join and we would LOVE to have you) and the good news is I am down 2 pounds! I’ve made a huge change in my diet this week, and while I’ve never been one to weigh myself, I was pleasantly surprised when I stepped on the scale this morning. While I’m not on a strict diet, I’ve just been making smarter choices about what I eat. And in this, I’ve learned that my smarter choices are also making smarter choices for the kids. Last night’s dinner of chicken, fresh green beans, and sweet potatoes was a hit and even got the “This is the best dinner ever!” from Harlan.

Changing my diet is what’s most difficult for me. I love food and I grew up loving food, so I find it so hard to change a habit that I’ve had for 30 years. But with baby steps, we are making it work and I know in the long run that it will be a better decision not only for myself, but for my family.

Along with the diet improvements, I’m still doing my workouts five days a week. Now I know to many busy moms, that sounds crazy, but I’m telling you if you have 30 minutes in your day, you can do it. Just something as simple as a walk can make a difference because it all adds up!

I thought I’d share with you some of the things that I do throughout the week to maintain my workout routine.

First, I want you to know that I used to hate working out. I alway viewed it as a chore, but over time, and much discipline, I’ve learned to love it. And now I find it to be my daily zen and the time that I can solely focus on me.

But there are days that I can’t make it to the gym, so I’ll try to workout with the kids around. It’s not as easy, but it can be done.

This summer, I stumbled across an article about Kayla Itsines, who gained internet fame with her Bikini Body Guide workouts. The article intrigued me and after taking a look at her instagram accounts and all of the before/after photos, I thought I’d give it a try.

I just finished her first guide last week and while I did see some changes in my overall physique, what I noticed the most was the change in my strength and stamina. I am now officially a believer. Her workouts are 28 minutes and are HIIT (high intensity interval training) sessions three days a week, so those 28 minutes are TOUGH, but they are quick and worth it. Then she has LIIS (long duration cardio) workouts for 30-45 minutes on three days in between. You get one day a week off. All of her workouts can be seen in her book and she gives detailed instructions on how to do them.

What I love about them is that most can be done at your house, with kids around and all. I just started her guide again and did a session on Monday in my living room with Harlan joining in with me. She was so proud of herself for working out with me and it was such a fun bonding experience with just the two of us.

This is what works for me and I know it’s not the right fit for everyone. I think the best advice I have as a mom who works from home full-time with the kids is that you just need to make the time for yourself. Whatever it is you decide to do (yoga, running, gym, spinning,) make sure that you are taking the time to do it. I promise that while it’s hard to find the motivation to actually do it, once you get through it, you will thank yourself.

Every mom deserves to do something for herself, so why not feel good while doing it?

All clothes worn in these photos are courtesy of Crane & Lion. My new favorite stylish activewear line.

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