This post is sponsored by Macy’s and ShopStyle. All clothing choices and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Sheaffer Told Me To!
It’s January 20, and it’s time. It’s time for me to get healthy.
Let me rephrase.
It’s time for me to get healthy… again.
Okay, ladies. Buckle up, because you’re about to hear some real talk from me.
If you’ve been following along for awhile, you know that I consistently struggle with my desired weight. I’ve said it over and over again how my weight varies anywhere from 15-20 pounds throughout each year. Nope, not a manageable 5 pounds….BUT FIFTEEN TO TWENTY POUNDS. EVERY SINGLE YEAR SINCE COLLEGE. I know it’s not healthy, but it just is what it is for me.
BUT THIS IS THE YEAR I HOPE TO CHANGE THAT.
History has shown, when I put my mind to it, I’m always able to lose the weight. Now, don’t get me wrong, it’s not easy. I have to FULLY COMMIT by making super healthy choices for several months (and allowing myself very few “cheat meals”), drinking TONS of water, and working out consistently (5x a week).
The first 7-10 days are always really hard for me. HOWEVER, once I’m down 2-3 pounds, I find that I all of a sudden become SUPER MOTIVATED. My clothes are already fitting better and I’m already feeling better, and that’s all I need to kick it into high gear. At first, I’m FORCING myself to eat healthier, and then after I see even just a little bit of progress, the healthy choices become easier.
Now here’s the really hard part. I’ve never been the “I love working out” girl or even the “I love how I feel after working out” girl. I mean, I of course like the results over time, but I don’t get any of those endorphins I hear people talking about. #wishidid
In the past, I’ve admitted to only working out like 3- 4 months a year. I typically work out January-May (when I’m slimming down for Summer), and then I gain weight August-December. It’s a tradition of sorts. A stupid tradition, but a tradition.
BUT NOT THIS YEAR!
I’m hoping that declaring this out loud to all of you is going to help me stay on track this year.
Yes, I’m going to have to fully commit for several months to lose the initial 15 pounds or so that I want to lose…but then I’m going to make a conscious decision to maintain. I’ve read articles saying it’s not good for my overall health (and my heart) to gain and lose weight every year, so this is finally the year that I’m going to commit to making a change.
And here’s something else I know about myself…
I tend to make healthier food choices WHEN I’M ALSO WORKING OUT. I know lots of women say things like “I worked out this morning, so I’m eating the french fries tonight.” I’m the polar opposite of that. When I work out, I’m more aware that it took me a significant amount of time to burn 400 calories, so I don’t want to mess that up. SO, when I do work out, I not only get the benefits of working out…I also eat better too. That’s a WIN-WIN.
So here’s what I’m thinking…
I’ll be doing scheduled work outs at first to make sure I lose the initial weight I need to. For me, that will be riding our exercise bike for at least 30 minutes a day or doing work out videos at home or with my neighbor.
But because I don’t enjoy that at all, once I lose the initial weight, I’m just going to commit TO BEING MORE ACTIVE and mixing it up to keep it more enjoyable. I’m going to commit to doing something to move my body every single day. Maybe that will look like a 20-minute jog around the neighborhood when the weather is nice. Maybe it will be extra-long walks with the dogs. Maybe it will be heading to the playground with Carter to play soccer.
I’m just going to MOVE MORE.
And as always, when I embark on my yearly GET HEALTHY journey, I like to motivate myself with new gear.
What can I say, cute new work out clothes motivate me. I grabbed some new pieces at Macy’s that are totally conducive to the more active lifestyle that I’m committing to, and I’m excited to share everything with you today!
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OUTFIT #1
I love all 3 pieces I’m wearing here.
And I just don’t kinda love them, I LOVE LOVE them.
Adidas sweatshirt / huggie earrings / Under Armour leggings / pink Adidas sneakers
This hooded sweatshirt is crazy comfortable and I really love the fit. It’s not slim cut, but it’s not boxy or sloppy either. The color combination is so much fun (the square is actually a vibrant coral, but it’s apparently difficult to capture in photos).
Oh, and it’s quite warm!
I grabbed a medium to make sure it would be long enough to wear with leggings.
It really is just perfect.
Adidas sweatshirt / huggie earrings / Under Armour leggings / pink Adidas sneakers
I’m wearing these pink sneaks in all 3 outfits today, but I’ll talk more about them in Outfit #2 because the color is better captured in those photos.
The leggings are awesome. The super-light HeatGear® fabric features four-way stretch and moisture-wicking performance, and you get compression support and a smooth fit. I’ve washed them several times already and they still look brand new. I’m wearing a small.
Under Armour leggings / pink Adidas sneakers
I’ve found this particular outfit to be a perfect dog walking outfit.
In an effort to simply be more consistently active this year, I hope to be going on lots of extended walks with these guys!
Adidas sweatshirt / huggie earrings / Under Armour leggings / pink Adidas sneakers
#handsome
These two are so funny. They have an extremely accurate internal clock that is both impressive and annoying. At exactly 3:00 every single day, they let me know it’s time for their daily walk. And I’m telling you, they start pacing around until it’s easier to take them than listen to and watch the pacing. They make circles together around our sectional until you get up and get your shoes on, which is actually quite persuasive.
They sure are bossy, but we sure do love them.
One more shot of the clothes!
This picture does a better job of showing the coral accurately. Such a fun color combination!
Adidas sweatshirt / huggie earrings / Under Armour leggings / pink Adidas sneakers
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OUTFIT #2
Okay, y’all.
I’ve been on a jogger kick for a good long while now, and I found this set that I’m officially obsessed with. Jogger sets are perfect for lounging around the house, for running errands around town, or for walks/jogs around the block.
Nike zip up hoodie / Nike capri joggers / similar white tee / huggie earrings / water bottle / pink Adidas sneakers
And they’re just so dang cute!
Nike zip up hoodie / Nike capri joggers / similar white tee / huggie earrings / water bottle / pink Adidas sneakers
I’m wearing a medium in the jacket and definitely needed the additional room that the medium provided.
Nike zip up hoodie / Nike capri joggers / similar white tee / huggie earrings / water bottle / pink Adidas sneakers
I’m wearing a small in the joggers, and I love the relaxed fit.
Nike zip up hoodie / Nike capri joggers / similar white tee / huggie earrings / water bottle / pink Adidas sneakers
Let’s talk about the pink sneaks.
Because they are ADORABLE.
I’m totally smitten with the retro inspired design, and the pink color just plain makes me happy.
They are comfy and true to size. In addition to wearing them with all of this work out gear, they will definitely be cute with jeans as well.
Nike capri joggers / water bottle / pink Adidas sneakers
I mean, when you put this cute little set on, you can’t help but have a little extra spring in your step. It practically makes me WANT to run around the block.
Nike zip up hoodie / Nike capri joggers / similar white tee / huggie earrings / water bottle / pink Adidas sneakers
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OUTFIT #3
In outfit #3 I’m wearing the same leggings from outfit #1, and the same pink sneakers from the other 2 outfits.
performance jacket / huggie earrings / Under Armour leggings / pink Adidas sneakers
I was so excited to add this water-repellent jacket to my closet, because Buddy and Charlie don’t care if the sun is shining or if it’s raining, they are going on their walk.
We are seriously the crazy people that you will see walking our dogs IN THE RAIN.
I opted for the grey, but it also comes in black and a great blush.
I would most often wear a medium in a jacket like this, but I read it ran large, so I ordered the small. I like the way the small fits and agree that the medium would have been way too roomy.
performance jacket / huggie earrings / Under Armour leggings / pink Adidas sneakers
performance jacket / Under Armour leggings
And y’all know I love a big stand up collar. This one really delivers!
performance jacket / huggie earrings / Under Armour leggings / pink Adidas sneakers
I tell ya, these outfits really do make me want to get out there and move!
performance jacket / huggie earrings / Under Armour leggings / pink Adidas sneakers
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Now that I’ve shared lots of active wear with y’all to help get you motivated, I also wanted to remind you of this gadget that I found last year.
If you’ve been following for a couple of years, you know I like to make smoothies, especially when I’m trying to slim down. They help me get in lots of fruits and veggies, and they help keep me full as well.
Last January I added a Magic Bullet to my kitchen, and WE LOVE IT SO MUCH. There are several to choose from at different price points, but we decided to get the one with 8,444 almost all 5 STAR RATINGS! And a recommendation rate of 89%!
We use it ALL. THE. TIME.
So, what is a Magic Bullet? Unlike blenders and juicers, the NutriBullet® is specifically engineered to help break down the cell walls of food to create some of the most nutritional smoothies available. This unique extraction process transforms food into its most nutritious, most absorbable state.
I mean, I’m all for drinking a delicious smoothie. But a delicious AND GREAT FOR YOU delicious smoothie? Sign me right on up.
In addition to making smoothies, other reviewers spoke of grinding herbs, grinding seeds and nuts, and making nut butters, vinaigrettes, and sauces.
I like that it is compact, powerful, and easy to clean. And I also love that this model was rose gold. #silly #buttrue Okay, enough glamour shots of my new Nutribullet. Here are some specs:
- Dimensions: 3.98″ x 7.87″ x 16.14″
- 900-watt motor base; 25,000 RPM
- Extractor blade
- 32-oz. Colossal cup
- 24-oz. Tall cup
- Flip-top to-go lid
- Handled Lip Ring
- Comfort Lip Ring
- Recipe book
- Pocket nutritionist
- 1-year limited warranty
I typically just make up my own recipes, but I know there are probably thousands to choose from on Pinterest.
And it came with this handy dandy recipe card for how to make a perfect NutriBlast smoothie. I’ve made several, they’ve all been awesome, and I of course love knowing that I’m getting the most nutritional value out of the fruits and veggies that I can.
One of my favorite simple smoothies follows the ratio suggestions on the card.
I went with 50% spinach leaves and 50% frozen fruit. I love the flavor and the consistency of both frozen strawberries and a frozen mango after they are blended. And I’m not a banana girl (even the smell makes my gag reflex kick up), but I know that bananas are great to add a wonderful creamy texture to smoothies. I’ve actually heard the same about avocados, but even though I absolutely love avocados, I haven’t been brave enough to throw one in a smoothie yet.
And per the suggestion on the card, I added a “boost” too. I chose chia seeds this time. I’ve also added vanilla protein powder in the past as well.
And because I like my drinks slushy and cold, I added just a tiny bit of crushed ice. However, when using frozen fruit, I’ve found that I don’t need the ice. If using fresh fruit, I do like to leave room for plenty of ice because I like the texture it gives to the smoothie.
For this particular smoothie, I used some Vanilla Almond Milk with a hint of honey. I’ve also used water and coconut water.
I’ve had so much fun playing with different combinations, and my favorite combo right now is a combo of spinach leaves, mangos, coconut water, and chia seeds. I also like adding frozen pineapple because it adds an awesome sweetness. It’s bright green from the spinach, but super sweet because of the pineapple or mango and coconut water, and I don’t taste the spinach at all. This would be a great one for kids, and you could totally add protein powder to this one too! During the year I’ve also worked up to be able to include more veggies and not as much fruit. I highly encourage you to browse Pinterest to find the smoothie recipes that appeal most to you!
And then with a simple twist of the wrist, I blend it all right up!
THE SMOOTHIES ARE DELICIOUS, and full of lots of whole food and lots of nutrients. This particular smoothie isn’t particularly pretty because the spinach and the mango gives it a greenish brown tint. But it sure is yummy! Some days I blend up a small smoothie for an afternoon snack. Other days I include protein powder and call it lunch. I usually only do this on extra busy days when I’m out and about. If I’m at home, I prefer to eat instead of drink my lunch.
Also included in the Nutribullet box: a book that tells you all you will ever need to know about your Nutribullet 900 (including some great recipes!), a Pocket Nutrinionist pamphlet, and information on their website and their app! #theresanappforthat
I am very happy with this purchase, and I’m excited to be using it on my Get Healthy journey!
I hope today’s post has been motivating!
I’ll be sure to share some of the foods I’m eating and some of the workouts I’m doing in future Friday Favorites and What’s Up Wednesday posts. Let’s all jump on this GET HEALTHY TRAIN together! Working out and eating better is definitely more fun with friends.
A huge thank you to Macy’s and ShopStyle for sponsoring this post.
Susan Jeffries says
That Nike outfit is adorable!! And your pups are gorgeous!!!! Good luck on your 2020 journey!! You always look great, so I have never noticed that you gain weight. And I have followed you for years(: Here’s to a happy and healthy 2020~
Sheaffer says
Aw, thanks Susan! I love getting comments from some of my first loyal readers. I appreciate you so much! xoxo
Erika Slaughter says
We have a similar blender we’ve been using all week and it’s so easy!! Love that jogger set! So cute!
Cathy says
Your posts are my favorites! I have a Golden too and though she is still a pup she is going to be a big girl! I am curious what kind of leash you use for your two beautiful pups? Thankyou.
Sheaffer says
Hi, Cathy! I’m not sure the brand, but we use retractable leashes.
Ahna @ Hammers N Hugs says
Aww thanks for the real talk, Sheaffer. Hard, but real. Have you ever heard of the Faster Way to Fat Loss? (Www.fasterwaytofatloss.com) Just wanted to throw this out there, but in my professional opinion as someone who has been in the healthcare industry for almost 15 years and a huge proponent of sustainable fitness and nutrition, it is the best program on the market using strategies that are truly based on GOOD research. I have never done the program but I went to college with the founder and personally implement many of the program’s strategies in my own life because the research is that convincing (intermittent fasting is the foundation of the program). It is the only program I have EVER recommended to my patients at the bedside because it’s as much an education on sustainable wellness than anything. I am not compensated by them by the way! Many blessings on your wellness journey in 2020! You got this!!
Sheaffer says
Hi, Ahna! YES! I have several friends that have done it with great success. I’ve been scared to try it because of learning all the macro stuff, but I see incredible results in my friends! Maybe I do need to give it a try! xoxo
Katie says
Wanna laugh and have only a few minutes to work out?!? Look up Fitness Marshall on You Tube!!
Crissy says
You always look so beautiful and never look like you need to loose any weight! The my fitness app is a great app to track nutrition and exercise. Blessings
Sheaffer says
Thanks, Crissy! I use it too! xoxo
Shay Shull says
1: Red is ALWAYS “your” color!!
2: You’ve got this, friend!!!!!!!
janeen says
hi
where did you get he basket on your counter and the
cute light pink hoodie you are wearing in you kitchen shots?
thank you
Sheaffer says
Hi, Janeen! They are both from Macy’s too, but sold out. 🙁 So sorry!
Susan says
Good for you! I’m always impressed how you can get so dedicated and get the weight off every year.
For exercising, I would really encourage you to try different formats until you find something that you really love. Whenever I walk on the treadmill or do the elliptical, my eye is constantly on the clock. I hate at-home workout videos & get so bored. However, in a dance fitness class, an hour just flies by because I love it. I’ve done some sort of dance class (first zumba, now Oula) consistently for 13 years.
My point is to try as many different types of exercise as you can, and you’ll probably find one that you’re excited to do. That makes exercising consistently so much easier! You might need to join a gym with fitness classes. I found that I really enjoyed working out with other people – so much more motivating.
Good luck on finding something that you love!
Sheaffer says
Hi, Susan! I love the idea of fitness classes, but I hate the time it takes to get to and from the gym. The extra 30 minutes annoys me! I know I need to loosen up, but I want the whole process to be as fast as possible. But you’re right, I need the accountability and the fun! xoxo
Kimberly Clayton says
Oh thank goodness–someone else that gags at bananas! I am on a diet right now that seems to want to include bananas in everything–ick! You, me, and Pioneer Woman……..
Belinda says
Great post, Sheaffer! I wanted to let you know about a trick I use to maintain my weight. I also used to gain and lose every year, but my weight gain was more drastic and the older I got, the harder it was to lose it. About 10 years ago I lost 30-35 pounds and was determined to keep it off. I stick to a healthy diet all week and then indulge on the weekends. This seems to work well. I do let myself enjoy vacations and holidays, so sometimes I have to spend a few weeks cutting back after those, but it is usually fairly easy to get back to my ideal weight. Good luck!
Sheaffer says
I think that good work for me, Belinda! I’ll definitely do that this year after I reach a more comfortable weight! xoxo
Julie Bradford says
I can’t help but to giggle every time I see your step forward shot.. 🙂 I never noticed that until you pointed it out and the silly comment one reader posted. you always look fabulous… good luck this year you can do it and I hope I can too!!!! #goals
Jenni says
I am a Revelation Wellness Instructor, which is a ministry that uses fitness as a tool to spread the gospel. I think you could relate to and benefit from so much that we teach! Maybe on your next walk or stationary bike ride, give the podcast a listen to. I also teach classes in Frisco, so come on out!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/revelation-wellness-healthy-whole/id671958238?i=1000463134532
Sheaffer says
Sounds cool, Jenni! I will definitely check it out! xoxo
Cheryl says
I don’t know if there’s more reliable workout buddy than a dog! Mine doesn’t care how cold or hot. She just wants to GO!
I love the workout gear!
Laurie S says
Woof to Buddy and Charlie, your fitness coaches! Go get ‘em on your health and fitness lifestyle! I tried intermittent fasting last summer and started seeing changes within the first week. Designate a time when you stop eating for the day like 8pm, and try to give your body about 8 hours to clean itself out. Your friend Cassie at Hi Sugarplum did a big post on it last year. Also watch out for hidden sugar in foods – salad dressings, dried fruits, cereal… even fresh fruit has sugar although it’s the healthy fructose. And sleep more!
Sheaffer says
All great tips, Laurie! And yes, I’m thinking of trying the intermittent fasting. I have several friends that have done it with great success! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Andrea says
I second and third that— you always look beautiful and I haven’t noticed your weight fluctuations! We have the same blender and use it daily. Thanks for the inspiring post and for sharing with us. I started my exercise journey in December and cute workout clothes definitely help motivate.
Michele says
I loved your recaps on your meals and workouts in the past. i hope you are planning on sharing again. They helped motivate me!
You’ve got this!
Michele
Sheaffer says
Hi, Michele! I’ll try to include some meals on Friday Favorites and What’s Up Wednesday posts! Thanks for the encouragement! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Tamra says
I love my bullet and have used them for years. I’m on my third! My go to and favorite is vanilla protein, actvia peach yogurt, frozen peaches and crushed ice and water. Seriously, I’ve had that smoothie for breakfast for close to 13 years. I need repetition and mindless in the morning. Every once in a while i switch to strawberry but peach has my heart. I freeze peaches in the summer to last all year! Good luck! Weight gain and loss is my life and I wish you the best turning it around!
Sheaffer says
Sounds delicious, Tamra! Thanks for the smoothies tips! xoxo
Elizabeth says
Hi Sheaffer,
I usually size up a half size in athletic shoes. Do you think that’s necessary with the pink adidas? Thanks for all of your inspiration!
Sheaffer says
Hi, Elizabeth! True to size for me, and I feel like a 1/2 size up would have been too big. Hope this helps!
Eileen says
I have the same goal this year – to stop the yearly yo-yo I do. In it with you!!
Sheaffer says
Let’s do this, Eileen!!!! 🙂 xoxo
Rikki says
You are so REAL and RELATABLE!!! I agree with the poster above, You ALWAYS look great! Those dimples and beautiful smile are day brighteners! I admire you for wanting to be healthy year-round. It sounds like you have the perfect plan in place and you are dressed for success. Keep us posted!
Sheaffer says
Rikki, THANK YOU SO MUCH! You’re sweet to take the time to leave a comment. Thank you for your encouraging words! xoxo
Georgia says
I love your blog, you look great in all of your pictures. Good luck on your getting fit journey, I like when you give examples of the meals that you’re eating when you diet. Also, your two goldens are absolutely gorgeous!
Sheaffer says
Thank you, Georgia! xoxo
Kara says
Love the looks! So I’m not a dieter at all!! I fact I hate the word. “Dieting” people always amaze me. I have to be able to allow myself a little bit of whatever I want. Maybe bc You are looking to stop the up and down weight pattern it Could be like thinking of just making good choices .. clean eating as much as possible .. not “going on a diet” . I’d explore macro counting if u never have before. It’s a bit too tedious for me all the tine but doing it as an initial “start up” really helps to make good choices. You can do it on My fitness pal app. Also have you heard of the book Smoothie project? @weelicious It’s amazing- I was a non believer of the avacado but let me tell you it’s amazing! Go for it!
Brenda says
This post was similar to me in so many ways (minus the cute workout outfits! I am similar in that each year, I’d gain 10-15, only my motivation to lose each year always centered around vacation plans it seemed. Vacationing in summer? I’d lose the weight, only to put it back on in the late fall/winter and come January…here I’d go again on my weight loss journey. For the past couple years I have been lower carb, which helps me tremendously, but still, my weight would creep up, especially in the less active, colder months. In 2019 I made a goal/vow/resolution to work on keeping active/staying more fit the entire year and?? It worked. I’ll be anxious to follow along with you and see how things go. It definitely isn’t easy right now (I live in the frigid cold of the Midwest, you know, where my day started at -8), but it has become such a habit, part of my day now, that I feel off if I don’t do something to be active. Thanks, as always, for sharing! Looking forward to seeing how your year goes too.
Sheaffer says
Glad to know this new mindset has worked for you, Brenda! I sure am hoping it works for me too! xoxo
Jen says
I’m with you! As I get older, maintaining my weight becomes more challenging. Have you ever looked at the website, Skinnytaste? She has amazing, real food that is healthy. I have loved every single recipe that I have ever made from her site. Good luck!! Here to a healthy 2020! ❤️
Sheaffer says
Yes! Love her site!!! xoxo
Carrie says
I am not a fan of diets but to really get an idea of what to eat and exercise habits, registered dietitians are amazing. A lot of insurance plans now give you 6 free visits a year. I love exercise and I feel like it is finding what works for you. I love to run and weight lift but I don’t like group classes. I too fluctuate with my weight but more being at a healthy weight and then stress affects my appetite and I lose too much. It’s not healthy and I start working with an RD soon to get a plan.
Jeni says
I have read your blog for years and have never ever noticed weight gain. You hide it well and always look as cute as ever! I have gained 7 pounds this last year and feel like an absolute blob! Please share details of your healthy journey because I am lacking motivation.
Sheaffer says
Oh, Jeni! My jeans would tell a different story, but thank you for your sweet words! I will definitely try to include some tips along the way! xoxo
Lisa Roussel says
Hi Shaeffer! I’ve been following you since before your blog changed names- so been here through at least a couple of cycles of summer shape up. In reading the comments above it appears that you’ve tried a lot of things or at least heard of them and are considering them- like intermittent fasting. One more suggestion for you is to consider Intuitive Eating. There are many books on the subject out there, but you might prefer listening to a podcast called Eat with Confidence. I know there are other podcasts that have similar information about losing the dieting mentality, trusting your body and making peace with food. Best of luck!
Sheaffer says
Thanks for the recommendation, Lisa! xoxo
Sugar Bostick says
That last picture of you with the smoothie is one of the prettiest pictures of you ever! You should make that your profile picture!
Sheaffer says
What a nice comment! Thank you! xoxo
Katie says
I’ve had great results with Trim Healthy Mama! The plan teaches you how to eat good carbs and good fats. It is a sustainable, whole-food approach. And, it’s the only thing that’s ever helped me kick my sugar addiction! The Trim Healthy Mama sisters have a website, books, and cookbooks to help you on your journey.
Melodie says
Try adding frozen riced cauliflower to your smoothies. It’ll give you extra nutrients but you won’t taste it!
Sheaffer says
Whoah! Good tip!
Diane says
Good luck! I have 15 to lose right now too.
Renee says
Is your exercise bike a Peloton? I love mine and have been obsessed with it since we got it a year ago. I do the arm toning and core strengthening videos also.