Hello, friends! Didn’t expect to hear from me again so soon, huh? Well – today is a two post kind of day. Sometimes its easier and quicker to put things into two posts. Plus, I have a lot to talk about this week for some reason. Two giveaways. Body After Baby progress update. Life in general.

This morning I awoke in a funk. I had that emotionally, mentally, and physically drained thing going on. I did not want to kick off my week in that mood, so I tried to change it around with a trip to the gym. I did my typical Monday morning routine and staked out a spot to run through a quick weights circuit a few times.

Today’s circuit had my heart pumping quite quickly. Gotta love when that happens!

I really pushed myself with this circuit. It’s tough going through those moves back to back with NO stopping. I also accomplished a new record for push-ups. I did the first two sets ALL on my toes and just the last 5 on my knees in the last set. Push-ups always kill me, so it felt great  to see improvement there. Maybe one day I will get back to doing push-ups with weight added to my back. Awesomeness.

After my weights, I strapped on my spinning shoes for my favorite way to cross train.

And I have to say – if you spin regularly…buy some basic spinning shoes. They really do make a world of difference! Love mine!

Once the 50 minute class was over, I left the gym feeling a bit better, but still not quite my normal, chipper self. I ended up going through the day pretty despondently. I was just going through the motions of playing with the kids, handling everyday duties, and prepping for final exam crunch time with the girl I tutor. I hate that because I really do try to appreciate every moment God offers me in this life.

By the end of the day I felt better because I kept working to shift my focus. I can’t stay in a sour mood for too long. It helps to recognize the many blessings that surround me. I mean think about the troubles that those in Tuscaloosa have faced recently! When Callie asked me to share about a Blogger Baby Shower to help send aid to families with young children in need, I knew I had to get in on the action.

All you have to do to participate is visit the baby registry set-up through Amazon by clicking HERE. Purchase something off the registry, which includes items in a variety of price ranges so anyone can help. Your purchase will automatically ship to a church in Tuscaloosa that will help get these items to those who need them most. As an added bonus – all who contribute will automatically be entered to win a $50 HomeGoods gift certificate from The Inspired Housewife.

Please take a moment to stop and consider helping. Don’t just go through the motions of life, expecting someone else to step up to the plate to help those in need. Let’s all do something about it!

• What is a fitness gear item you think really makes a difference?

Well the day just flew by today, didn’t it? I guess that happens when you have a lot on your plate for the day. I started out at the gym. I restarted the same workout schedule I picked up last week, since I got sick right after starting. That meant a 50 minute spin class and the following circuit completed 3 times through.

• push-ups (10 on toes, 5 on knees)
• mountain climbers (20 reps per leg)
• dumbbell bench press (10 reps)
• squat jumps (15 reps)
• overhead tricep extension (10 reps)

That circuit is quick and to the point. It takes just under 15 minutes to get through, but leaves you spent. I had to kill a little more time before leaving the gym, so I did a round of 30 second planks to finish out my gym time. Then, I immediately devoured this yogurt bowl in the parking lot.

I packed up some Chobani mango yogurt, raspberries, cheerios, and crushed butter toffee almonds with a banana to have on the go after the gym.

I can only eat something light before my workouts, so I knew I would need extra fuel to hold me over afterwards. You see, we had to go straight to an Easter egg hunt with the mom’s club this morning.

We don’t do the Easter Bunny thing, but egg hunts sure are fun this time of year. Makenzie lived it up. She found her 10 eggs and then forgot about them when she realized she got to have a special decorated cookie.

Thank goodness for play time at the park to burn off some of that sugar rush.

Perhaps I should have taken a cookie myself. I could have used a sugar rush to get through the rest of my day. I still managed to power through most of my to-dos this afternoon. Then, I rewarded myself with a homemade Tropical Flax bar, apple, and peanut butter.

And now. I think I need a shower. Catch you all tomorrow with Month 3 progress catch-up!

• What breakfasts do you like to take with you on the go? My yogurt bowl was a perfect, filling option for me. I still love extra ideas in a pinch, though. Share away!