Tag: motherhood

How I Celebrate Small Wins Everyday

Published on by OneSharpeMommaLeave a comment

“Remember: The Small Wins Count Too.”

… because we can get so caught up in the big things, the flashy things and all the things that didn’t go well in a day.

Since joining motherhood, this mantra holds a different meaning for me. When I was a career women I had no problem acknowledging the steps I took to reach a goal. However, when I became a full-time mom I honestly didn’t believe I had anything to celebrate. I failed to recognize the little things I was doing on a daily basis that had an important impact on my family. I was use to work benchmarks and didn’t have any for my new role as a mom.

I know it’s cliche to say but motherhood changed me. It changed my body, it changed the way I think, it shifted my identity and it changed my spirit. During those early months with twins I was in true survival mode. I didn’t have much time to breathe let alone take a shower. I often found myself focused on the mess instead of the two miracles staring at me. I knew my mindset had to change and I began celebrating everything. I started honoring myself and all the things I accomplished for the day (because full-time moms hold value).

I celebrated every day I was able to breastfeed and it wasn’t an easy task. I celebrated when I reached 6 months, 9 months and 1 year of breastfeeding. I celebrated every time I took a shower, brushed my teeth and had clean hair because the little things mattered. I celebrated every time I made it outside with the children by myself because it was a chore. Putting them down for a nap without a fight was definitely worth celebrating. I was also excited about making it to the end of each day with everyone in tact.

Believe me, there were days when I lost sight of the small wins but my children are great reminders. Whether it was praises when they learned how to roll over, praises when they started drinking from a sippy cup or began walking; the joy they felt was contagious. I quickly realized what I was doing wasn’t just encouragement for them but encouragement for me as well. A way to give myself a pat on the back and say “well done momma”. There were many moments of uncertainty with motherhood but so many reminders that I was doing my very best. That is what matters, right?

I truly believe our children are teachers. They are constantly guiding me to trust myself and reminding me that there isn’t one right way to parent……. but many small wins to celebrate. With potty training in full effect at my household this mantra is constantly repeated. I am focused on progress, not perfect. Although having everything end up in the potty all the time would be great.

So if you are looking for a little motivation, celebrate small wins everyday with your toddler. And for all the stay-at-home-mothers, don’t forget to praise yourself because we also have something to celebrate everyday.

Fruit and Veggie Smoothies for the Entire Family

Published on by OneSharpeMomma2 Comments

In my house, we love to drink smoothies. We drink them for lunch. We drink them as a snack. We basically drink them all year-round, any time of day. It is my go-to when looking for something simple and easy to make. It is my go-to when the picky eater makes an appearance. It is my go-to when I want to get the daily servings of fruit and vegetables in. It is also my go-to when I am craving a sweet snack. Therefore, I decided to share three popular smoothies that my entire family loves.

Please note, all smoothies listed contain milk but you can use a dairy-free alternative. I know some smoothies call for juice or coconut water. However, milk is my preferred liquid base because it adds a little extra protein for my growing toddlers.

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Before listing some of the smoothie options I often make, I wanted to point out some tips that work well for me.

Smoothie Tip #1 – Substitute the ice for frozen fruits.

You can purchase frozen fruit or freeze your own. I often do this with ripe bananas so they don’t go to waste. Another option for skipping the ice is to freeze your leafy greens. You can put kale or spinach in a freezer-safe bag and then add them straight to the blender when you are ready. Of course you want to make sure your leafy greens are washed and ready to eat before freezing.

Smoothie Tip #2 – Add oatmeal for a nutritional boost.

The first time I tried a smoothie with oats was on vacation. It contained a thicker texture but was tasty and filling. My husband and I started adding it to our smoothies when we got home and that was it. The nutritional bonus to including oatmeal is more fiber, protein and iron for the day. Give it a try, you won’t be disappointed.

Smoothie Tip #3 – Save what you don’t drink.

One final bonus to making smoothies is that they can be frozen into ice pops. I know sometimes I have more liquid than I can fit into my cup. So the leftover becomes a great frozen treat for all.

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Berry and Spinach Smoothie

Ingredients:
1  1/2 cups milk (12 oz)
1/2 cup frozen berry blend
1/2 cup frozen spinach
half an avocado
1 tbsp almond butter
1 teaspoon honey
2 tbsp yogurt (optional)

Directions:
Pour milk in first then add all other ingredients.

Blend until smooth. If too thick, add more milk.

Pour into cups and serve.

Banana, Blueberry & Spinach Smoothie

Ingredients:
1 cup milk
1 ripe banana
1/2 cup frozen spinach
2 tbsp yogurt
1/2 cup frozen blueberries

Directions:

Pour milk in first then add all other ingredients. Blend until smooth. If too thick, add more milk.

Pour into cups and serve.

Berry, Kale & Oatmeal Smoothie

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups milk (12 oz)
1 ripe banana
1/2 cup kale
2 tbsp yogurt
1/2 cup frozen berry blend
1/3 cup rolled oats

Directions:

Pour milk in first then add all other ingredients. Blend until smooth. If too thick, add more milk.

Pour into cups and serve.

Note: This is a household favorite.

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, with most of the smoothies listed the yogurt and oats are optional. I often swap them in and out based on the time of day we are drinking them. If I am using this as a meal replacement for my picky eater, I definitely include both. Just have fun and try different combos until you find what the family loves.