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?

Before I begin – please stop on over to Teri’s fabulous blog to check out a guest post I wrote for her. I kind of love the post, so would love for you to read it! And if you’re HERE for the first time, coming over from Teri’s site, HI!! Say hello and let’s be friends, huh? 😉

Yesterday I lived the quintessential life of a mother. I had a day fully devoted to fun activity with the kiddos. First, it started with a playgroup field trip. All of us moms packed up the kids and headed somewhere special for the kids this week.

The zoo!!! Makenzie loved playing with her friends and visiting with all the animals.

That happy face made going home with a headache that rivals Charlie Sheen’s withdrawal symptoms worthwhile. After the zoo, both Makenzie & B pooped out in time to come home and get in some nap time. Thank goodness for nap time! I needed a break before Miss M woke up with a gleam in her eyes for me to read her some books.

Did I say “some”? Some. A lot. A ton. Same difference to her. When we went to the library earlier in the week, that child picked out thirty-six (36!!!!) books to bring home. I can’t say no to books. I commend her love of reading…but good gracious is that a lot of books for mommy to have to read. Over. And over. And over. It’s love, I tell ya.

Once we conquered the leaning tower of “Monster Munchies” literature, we took on some more adventurous play.

What did you say? Having M pound into my stomach won’t help flatten it? Dang. I guess I have to hit the gym still. Which I did, despite not really feeling it. I knew I wouldn’t be up for my standard Thursday afternoon run, so I ventured to the gym for a variety workout. I did 15 minutes each

• Stepmill – Fat Burner Mode – Level 10
• Elliptical – Resistance 8
• Sprint on Treadmill – 9.0 speed – 40 sec on / 20 sec rest

The workout felt a bit tougher than normal, but it made for some quality “me time”. I have to say - as much as I value “me time”, I wouldn’t give up motherhood for anything.

Ah, motherhood. The never ending job that somehow doesn’t phase you with 4 am wake-up calls and blesses you with stinky, but somehow cute, “scenarios”. The job that will push your limits further than you can imagine, while somehow creating a love that knows no bounds in the process.

Mother’s Day comes this weekend. While I would love to receive something like a massage or new workout clothes for myself, I instead hope to focus on my own mother. I wish to celebrate the fabulous job she has done, and continues to do, as my mom. As one of the strongest women I know, she deserves the world after the things she has recently faced in adjusting to her MS diagnosis. I cannot wait for tonight to relax with my mom and my sister and celebrate the best mom out there. I know my own experience as a mom has given me a new appreciation. It has also proved to me just how dearly moms hold Mother’s Day. So please, show your own mom some love this weekend if possible. It would mean more to her than you can know.

• What is one thing you admire about your mom?
• What was your favorite animal at the zoo?