Potato Chip Cats

Embarrassing Myself for a Reason: Day Two and Three of my Fitness Fails

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 23:50:00 +0000

Two days ago, I explained how laughably awful my first workout in forever went. I realized that I have a long, uphill battle ahead of me, and that maybe I should look into a Lamaze class after I failed at just breathing right for five minutes.

So I took a few small steps that I hope will keep me motivated. First, I've started wearing a Fitbit. It was a gift that came at exactly the right time. The device itself, I must report, I am not in love with. I wish it had a watch or could tell me how many calories I've burned or something. But at least the app is pretty awesome.

Next, I rewarded myself for the three pounds I did lose in January (water weight be damned) by starting a weight loss jar. Unfortunately the only container I had available is beautiful but dauntingly enormous. I'll try to look at that as more motivation... *runs away*

Looks like my work is cut out for me. Or I need a smaller jar.

Lastly, I wrote my weight in lipstick on my bathroom mirror. I have ONE tube of lipstick and I have NEVER worn it, so this is the most useful it's ever been! By facing that number every morning, I think it will help me stay on the right track. I'm already looking forward to re-writing it next week.

Anywho, in my first try at exercising in quiiiite some time, I found that cardio is not my strong suit, or even my weak suit, or really any kind of suit at all, buuuut it's essential for calorie burning and overall weight loss. So for the past two days, I tackled Jillian's video warm-up again, and I focused specifically on nailing the form and pushing myself to make it through. I even made it through the first round of the leg circuit.

I say this like it's a big accomplishment but in the scheme of things, I know I've got a long way to go. It's like I've left the starting line, but I still have to actually run the 5k. Except that I hate running.

With my heart rate up, I moved on to an ab routine I found on Pinterest called the 7 Day Ab Challenge. I don't intend to use it for seven days, as I want to try a few things out and see what feels right. I am happy to report that I got through the first routine better than expected, albeit very slowly. 'Dem leg lifts...wow.

I am much less happy to report that today's effort caused a little more frustration. By the end of the first five minutes, my belly muscles were shaking like chunks of Jell-0 and I was inordinately mad at the computer animated man who demonstrated the moves. I actually looked at him at one point wondering if his CGI-highlighted muscles even existed anywhere in my body. I also may have yelled at the robot who called it an "a-b-s workout" instead of saying "abs." Siri would be so ashamed of him.

But like I keep saying, I have to keep trying and I'm proud that I didn't give it one day and call it quits. On to slimmer and better things!

There is Now a Level Zero: My First Workout in Forever

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Thu, 05 Feb 2015 00:48:00 +0000

For 2015, I made a series of what I thought were attainable New Year's Resolutions. The first was to "be smarter financially." Just that, those exact words. (Notice how non-specific I was). Second, was to "drink more water." Third, was to "eat more realistic portions." (Notice I said realistic, not necessarily smaller....I'm taking baby steps here.)

While I didn't announce it or write it down or whatever, subconsciously I also wanted to lose weight. Ugh, I'm so non-committal! So I tried a little bit and gave up in January. Chimichangas and pasta and steal and chocolate (not all together) are just too good. But now it's February and I'm going to try again.

Needless to say, my first workout of the month was a complete and utter failure. Shifu from Kung Fu Panda (I'm so mature, right?) hit the nail on the head when he admitted that "there is now a Level Zero."

Beginner Po is my spirit animal.

I kicked off this faux-resolution by using a Groupon deal to get a Jillian Michaels DVD for like $6. I still have Groupon credit from my failed helicopter ride, so it felt like it was free- off to a good start! But not for long.

The first five minutes of the video she calls a "warm-up." HA. When you're level 0, there needs to be another term for this. My attempt was truly laughable. You know things have gotten bad when you can feel your belly flab bouncing independently of your body while doing jumping jacks. And when you can't even finish 60 jumping jacks.

By the end of just those two short circuits, I was panting and wheezing like a pug with a bad cold. Jillian is pepping away (is pepping a word?) and getting ready to start (warming up doesn't count as starting- excellent!) while I am lying on the yoga mat trying not to die and clutching my water bottle like it's the elixir of life.

Next there was a cycle of squats with some arms stuff (I did do about ten squats and a lunge or two), then abs, and then more god-forsaken, torturous "exercises". I can't be sure, because I blacked out.

Just kidding.

But in all seriousness, I stood and watched about 40 more minutes of three impeccably toned women blitzing around and smiling like they're really enjoying this, and all I could muster was standing. I hear that's better for you than sitting. Way to go, me!

So in summation, day one...not so hot. But there's always day two, and now I know where I stand and how hard I need to work. Here goes nothing!

Enter to Win an Honest Company Essentials Sample Pack

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 13:30:00 +0000

The Total Life Expo, the most comprehensive health fair in my area, is hosting a giveaway in anticipation of the second annual event on October 11 at Mohegan Sun, and I am happy to help!

Enter below to win a sample pack of all-natural body and home products made by Honest Company.

Because the expo is located in southeastern Connecticut, this giveaway is open only to residents of CT, NY, MA, and RI.

Even if you can't make it to the show, you should still like the page for healthy recipes, workouts, inspiration, and more!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Xbox One Giveaway: Enter Here

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 20:47:00 +0000

Hosted by:

NYSavingSpecials

Co-hosted by:

Barbara's Beat, MOMenvy Blog, Army Wife to Suburban Life, MomStart and Simply Sherryl

You could be the lucky winner of an XBOX ONE!

Rules and Guidelines:

Giveaway Runs June 2 To June 16 11:59pm EST.

Valid only in the Continental United States. Void where prohibited.

18 years or older to enter. Limit 1 entrant per household.

Winner is chosen through random.org

All entries are optional. All winning entries will be verified.

Good luck!

Remember, you'll never win if you don't enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: Potato Chip Cats is not responsible for the awarding of the prize. If you have any questions about this giveaway, please email the host at nysavingspecials@gmail.com. This blog, Facebook, Twitter or any other social media network is not associated with this giveaway.

My experience with the 3 Day Diet

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Thu, 01 May 2014 16:19:00 +0000

Weight loss seems to be a hot topic right now, especially with the heightened emphasis on natural and organic foods, fast food restaurants offering "light" options, GMO labeling; the whole country seems fascinated with their food.

A cursory Google search for fast weight loss will bring up millions of results, and among them is the 3 day "military" diet. Now I know rapid weight loss can be unhealthy, especially if taken to the extreme, but I decided that I needed a quick, effective way to lose a few pounds in order to see results and keep up my motivation.

So this week, I took on the Three Day Diet.

I found a post here outlining the foods, effects, stories, and even a poll to see how much weight users lost. This plan is all over the internet. It's basically three days of very low calorie intake in order to lose weight, and features common ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

The website touts weight loss of 10 pounds. According to the poll of over 5,000 people, most lose up to 7 pounds, which is impressive in three days! However 17% lost nothing...but I took a risk and went for it anyway!

I don't know if the military really does use this diet- if they do, we need to feed our service men and women more food!!

Some sites claim that it's chemically balanced and no substitutions are allowed. I don't think that's the case: if you cut your calorie intake in half for three days, you will probably lose weight, chemically or otherwise.

So does the 3 day diet work? Here is my honest experience.

Monday through Wednesday, I ate only what was listed, which includes normal household foods like toast, hard boiled eggs, tuna, bananas, and believe it or not, vanilla ice cream! On my particular diet, green tea or black coffee is allowed on Day 1, but it's only water from then on. At least my grocery shopping was simple, fast, and pretty cheap.

I tracked my food using Lose It, and my average calorie intake was about 900. I also drank at least 4 water bottles a day- I know that's not enough, but compared to my usual (one bottle at work, OJ with breakfast, milk at lunch, and a beer at dinner) I think my body appreciated the hydration!

On Day 1 and 2, I was not hungry outside of meal time. On Day 3, I was ravenous, but the last day is the lowest calorie allowance. Because it was only 3 days, it was easy to get through it, and it was so nice not having to think about what to make for dinner.

The result: after weighing in this morning, I lost 2.5 pounds in 3 days. I started with reasonable expectations- my goal was 3 pounds, so at least I was close. I should note that outside of housework, I did not exercise.

I am happy I lost anything, never knowing what to expect from what is probably a fad diet. There is still a long way to go to my goal, but this helped me get in gear to start eating healthier and lose weight. I may insert this diet into my regular plan when I need a kick-start or start to plateau.

I am no nutritionist, but even as a layperson, I know this is a weird diet. Most weight loss plans don't include toast or starches like it, ice cream, and especially hot dogs, natural or not. That said, I lost weight, I feel fine, and I encourage you to form your own opinion. After all, this is just my review.

$500 April Showers Cash Giveaway: Enter Here!

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Wed, 09 Apr 2014 04:01:00 +0000

Welcome to the $500 April Showers Cash Giveaway!

I have joined forces with an amazing group of bloggers to bring you this great giveaway. One lucky person will win $500 cash.

Right now, I am saving up for a summer trip on the few days I am able to get away from work. I would love to win a nice little chunk of change like this! I wish you the best of luck. Remember, you can't win if you don't enter.

Enter to win $500 cash via PayPal.

Complete the tasks below to earn entries into this giveaway.

Refer your friends using your unique link to earn even more chances to win.

Open Worldwide.

Ends at 11:59pm EDT on April 22nd, 2014.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway was coordinated by Giveaway Promote.

Enter the Spring Fever $500 Cash Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Mon, 10 Mar 2014 04:01:00 +0000

Welcome to the $500 Spring Fever Cash Giveaway!

I have joined in with an amazing group of bloggers to bring you this great giveaway. One lucky person will win $500 cash!

What would you do with an extra $500 this season? As a host, I can't enter, so I'm super jealous of all of you! Just know that I begrudgingly wish you the best of luck.

Enter to win $500 cash via PayPal

Use the Rafflecopter form below to complete the tasks and earn entries into this giveaway.

Bonus: Refer your friends using your unique link to earn even more chances to win!

Open Worldwide.

Ends at 11:59pm EST on March 23rd, 2014.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway was coordinated by Giveaway Promote.

FREE Blogger Sign-Up: Xbox One Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Wed, 05 Mar 2014 18:18:00 +0000

Bloggers! Free Sign up with Announcement

Prize:
Xbox One

Info:

-Giveaway date: June 2 - June 16, 2014

-1 FREE link with announcement: Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest

Get your announcement here (or pay $5.00)

-Co-host $25.00

Includes 10 Links (no Google links)

2 Co-host pages

-Extra links $3.00 (no Google links, max 4 links)

Please send payment to melisurveys1978@gmail.com.

If you have any question, please contact nysavingspecials@gmail.com

Sign up here

Wordless Wednesday with Linky: Snowstorm!

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Tue, 11 Feb 2014 23:23:00 +0000

The day after a snow storm is always my favorite!

Enter to win a Kindle Fire or cash!

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 19:31:00 +0000

Win a Kindle Fire HDX, Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash ($229 value)

Bloggers and Authors have joined together and each chipped in a little money towards a Kindle Fire HDX 7".

All New Kindle Fire HDX 7" Giveaway

The winner will have the option of receiving a 7" Kindle Fire HDX (US Only - $229 Value)

Or $229 Amazon.com Gift Card (International)

Or $229 in Paypal Cash (International)

January Sponsors

Sign up to sponsor the next Kindle Fire Giveaway:

http://www.iamareader.com/category/kindle-giveaway-sign-ups

Giveaway Details

1 winner will receive their choice of an all new Kindle Fire 7" HDX (US Only - $229 value), $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 in Paypal Cash (International).

There is a second separate giveaway for bloggers who post this giveaway on their blog. See details in the rafflecopter on how to enter to win the 2nd Kindle Fire HDX 7".

Ends 2/9/14

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and sponsored by the participating authors & bloggers. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Wordless Wednesday with Linky: Earl's First Vet Visit

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Wed, 15 Jan 2014 15:11:00 +0000

Earl's first trip to the vet since we've had him. He handled it surprisingly well.

There's still time to help feed the hungry in Connecticut

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Mon, 23 Dec 2013 21:23:00 +0000

Bank of America adds $2 to every dollar donated online to the Connecticut Food Bank this holiday, and it's not too late to make a difference.

I like to recognize companies who have a lot (sometimes too much?) and choose to give back with social responsibility programs, and now there's a national corporation backing an important non-profit, with the opportunity to support people in my home area.

Bank of America is sponsoring the Give a Meal Campaign through Feeding America now through January 10, 2014 to help low-income families enjoy the holiday season, and you can make a donation locally!

To those of you who may not be from the great state of CT and only hear the stereotypes: yes, as a matter of fact, there are hungry people in Connecticut. While it may be considered one of the richest states, it also has one of the widest wealth gaps in the nation. It's kind of embarrassing and shameful, but until we can right this disparity, places like Connecticut Food Bank need help. The need has never been greater in Connecticut, as 424,000 people are being affected by the federal cuts to SNAP (food stamps). Connecticut Food Bank is receiving more requests for food assistance than ever before.

For every dollar donated online at www.bankofamerica.com/give, Bank of America will match it by $2, up to a total of $1.5 million. For example, donate $10 online, and Bank of America will make a $20 match.

But if you're reading this and you'd like to support your own neighbors, you can select to give to your local food bank based on your billing zip code, or to the Feeding America national office. Just make a $5 minimum donation, up to a maximum donation of $1,000 per individual. You can feed a family for three weeks with just $28. But hurry! The Give a Meal Campaign only lasts until January 10, 2014.

Wordless Wednesday: Don't Clip my Nails!

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Wed, 18 Dec 2013 20:35:00 +0000

Earl is not a fan of his nail clippers.

I hope this upsets you...so reduce, reuse, and recycle!

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 18:41:00 +0000

[SOURCE] On July 29, 2013, a sperm whale was stranded on Tershelling, a northern island in the Netherlands. A rescue was attempted, but unfortunately the whale died. The young adult was taken for a necropsy, and it was found that the whale had plastic in its stomach, an increasingly common phenomenon.

Avoidable deaths caused by ingestion of inorganic materials are not uncommon in marine mammals.

In 1989, a stranded sperm whale in the Lavezzi Islands died after ingesting plastic bags and 100 feet of plastic sheeting.
In 1990, a sperm whale examined for pathology in Iceland died of an obstruction of the gut with plastic marine debris.
In August of 2008, a sperm whale washed up in Point Reyes, California with 450 pounds of fishing net, rope, and plastic bags in its stomach.

Plastic is not digestible, and once it finds its way into the intestines, it accumulates and clogs the intestines. This can cause malnutrition, obstruction and disease, and eventually, death.

Whales are not the only victims to our trash. It is estimated that over one million birds and 100,000 marine mammals die each year from plastic debris.

In September 2009, photographs of albatross chicks on Midway Atoll were brought to the public’s eye. These nesting chicks were fed bellies full of plastic by their parents who soar over vastly polluted oceans collecting what looks to them to be food. This diet of human trash kills tens of thousands of albatross chicks each year on Midway because of starvation, toxicity, and choking. Warning: through brutally honest, this video may be tear inducing!

We can all do our part by limiting our use of plastic products such as shopping bags, party balloons, straws, and plastic bottles. Be a frugal shopper and practice the 3 Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle! Share this post, this video, this picture- and whatever you do, think before you throw away!

18 Ways to Reuse Plastic Bags

45 Ideas for Recycling Plastic Bottles

Coach Ashley Signature Carryall Giveaway: Enter Here

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Thu, 10 Oct 2013 04:01:00 +0000

Coach Giveaway:

Enter to win this beautiful Coach Ashley Signature Carryall bag, just in time to complement your new fall flare!

Hosted by:

NYSavingSpecials

Co-hosted by:

Simple Sherryl, Barbara's Beat,

Capri's Coupons, Charis by Design,

Life's Cheap Thrills,

My Devotional Thoughts and Uplifting Love

Value: $358

Giveaway Details:

Dates: October 10 12:01am to November 17 11:59pm

Winner must be a US Resident

All entries are optional, but use as many as you can to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: Potato Chip Cats is not responsible for the awarding of the prize. Host is responsible for prize fulfillment. If you have any questions about this giveaway, please email the host at nysavingspecials@gmail.com

#WordlessWednesday with Linky: Abandoned Barn

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Tue, 08 Oct 2013 22:52:00 +0000

New and Featured Giveaways (10/3)

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Thu, 03 Oct 2013 21:30:00 +0000

My Master Giveaway Linky is refreshed and ready for you to win some great prizes, or list your awesome blog giveaways!

This week's Featured Giveaways:

Watanut Subscription Box
Hosted by Crazy 4 Subscription Boxes
Ends 10/4

Cuisinart Baby Food Maker and Bottle Warmer
Hosted by Family Focus Blog
Ends 10/8

SoapTime Dispenser
Hosted by Gramma Good
Ends 10/31

Remember, you can't win if you don't enter. Blog giveaways have more entry options and lower overall entries than most corporate sweepstakes, so take advantage of this. Trust me, it's worth a little effort.

CLICK HERE to visit my complete listing of blog giveaways and sweepstakes. Good luck!

#WordlessWednesday with Linky: My Commute

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 21:30:00 +0000

This is a little departure from my Wordless Wednesday traditional posts, but I thought this was a cool picture of the bridge I cross every day for work. Some early mornings the fog is so thick you can barely hear the cars driving by.

Photo Credit: The Day

New and Featured Giveaways (9/26)

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Thu, 26 Sep 2013 21:30:00 +0000

My Master Giveaway Linky is refreshed and ready for you to win some great prizes, or list your awesome blog giveaways!

This week's Featured Giveaways:

InSinkErator Invite Contour Instant Hot Water Dispenser
Hosted by MiscFinds4U
Ends 9/30

Mia Mariu Beauty Bundle
Hosted by Blog with Mom
Ends 10/1

NYNE NB-200 Bluetooth Speaker
Hosted by Comeback Momma
Ends 10/3

Cuisinart Baby Food Maker and Bottle Warmer
Hosted by Family Focus Blog
Ends 10/8

CLICK HERE to visit my complete listing of blog giveaways and sweepstakes. Good luck!

#WordlessWednesday with Linky: Zemko Pond

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Tue, 24 Sep 2013 23:14:00 +0000

New and Featured Giveaways from my Giveaway Linky (9/19)

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Thu, 19 Sep 2013 21:30:00 +0000

My Master Giveaway Linky is refreshed and ready for you to win some great prizes, or list your awesome blog giveaways!

This week's Featured Giveaways:

$100 WalMart Gift Card VTech Dual Handset Cordless Answering System
Hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom

Ends 9/21

Brenthaven BX2 Holster DSLR Camera Bag

Hosted by Gator Mommy Reviews

Ends 9/25

Hamilton Beach Breakfast Sandwich Maker

Hosted by A Nut in a Nutshell

Ends 10/2

$150 Gandhara Designs Artisan Jewelry Giveaway

Hosted by Family Focus Blog

Ends 10/9

CLICK HERE to visit my complete listing of blog giveaways and sweepstakes. Good luck!

#WordlessWednesday with Linky: Barn Island, Stonington

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Tue, 17 Sep 2013 22:06:00 +0000

Wordless Wednesday with Linky "Family at Play"

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Tue, 03 Sep 2013 22:29:00 +0000

Father-son chinchilla playtime: Souffle and Mousse

Wordless Wednesday with Linky: Action Wildlife Foundation

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Wed, 28 Aug 2013 00:09:00 +0000

Kindle Fire HD Giveaway: Enter Here!

noreply@blogger.com (Megan C.) — Sat, 10 Aug 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the Kindle Fire HD Giveaway

Hosted by Mom Loves 2 Read

Sponsored by MyPerfectGift.com

A special thank you to Co-Host Lazy Day CA

MyPerfectGift.com helps you give (or get) the perfect gift by choosing and placing the things you like or love into your own personal wishlist! You, your spouse, or your kids can all make wishlists to share with family and friends, or to keep track of all the wonderful things you'd love to have!

I'm super jealous that all of my readers get to participate and someone might win a free tablet! As you may know, I've been trying to win one for ages (I'm cheap- I don't want to just buy one myself). So sign up with MyPerfectGift.com then enter below and cross your fingers, because August 31 could be your lucky day!

Here is how you can be Eligible to Win~

First, sign up and create a registry and add at least 3 gifts to it - it's that easy! You can even sign-up with one click using your Facebook info. If you already have a MyPerfectGift Registry just add a new gift to your existing wishlist.

One lucky winner will receive

a Kindle Fire (US) or Paypal Cash (Int)!!

Giveaway starts August 10th at 12:01am and ends August 31st at 11:59pm. Kindle Fire HD prize available to US residents, ages 18 and over. International Residents are welcome to enter but will win Paypal cash (less fees) instead of the Kindle Fire prize.

To enter please use the GiveawayTools form below. Good luck!

Entry -Form

Disclaimer: To be eligible to win this giveaway, you must create an account and add at least three items in your registry. If you have an existing account, add at least one new item to your registry.

Mom Loves 2 Read did receive compensation for this giveaway event, however my opinions are my own and may differ from yours. Potato Chip Cats is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. If winner lives in US he/she will receive a Kindle Fire from the sponsor. If winner is outside the US, he/she will receive Paypal Cash from the sponsor less any Paypal fees. Prizes can take up to 8 weeks to arrive. Void where prohibited.