January Mom of the Month - Julie Nievas-Barajas

This month we recognize JULIE NIEVAS - BARAJAS for her accomplishment and dedication to fitness, motherhood and life! Our Brea, Fullerton, Placentia and Yorba Linda Stroller Strides Team would like to say THANK YOU JULIE for being part of our Stroller Strides family!

1. Who are the members of your family?
The members of my family are my husband Edgar, our daughter Elisa( aka Ellie), our six-year old cocker spaniel, Buddy and me.!


2. What is or was your career?
I was a preschool teacher for a short time after graduating from college. After a couple more years of schooling and credentialing I became an elementary school teacher. In recent years, I've become an office assistant at my husband's wholesale produce company. I only do this on Tuesdays and Thursdays when Ellie is at school. My main job is being a MOM. :)

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?
I've been a member of Stroller Strides since Ellie was seven months old. She's now three and a half! Stroller Strides has not only helped me lose my baby weight, it has helped me fosters friendships with so many other moms. Whenever I have a "Mommy question", I know that I can always count on at least one of the ladies to help me out. It is such a blessing!

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
That it would be so life changing! I think I used to be such a selfish single gal. Now, Ellie is the biggest priority in my life.

5. Favorite website(s)?
I love the Internet. Facebook is a must. I love that you can connect with so many people. I love 6pm.com for discount shoes for everyone in the family. Etsy.com is great for unique birthday invitations and beautiful hair bows. My nightly routine has included watching movies on Netflix.com. I'm kinda of an Apple geek so apple.com. Epicurious.com for awesome recipes. I can go on and on.

6. List three current obsessions.
I think the first is obvious from the last question; the Internet. Another obsession is baking. I usually bake cakes or bread but this Christmas I did twelve days of cookies. It was a lot of fun. My last obsession is handbags. I love a good designer handbag.!

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
Ellie really likes that I bake. She loves helping in the kitchen. We have matching aprons and she knows where to place her stool. She did so well with our Christmas cookies.

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
My advice to moms is always to remember to make time for yourself. A few hours a week to do something just for you is essential. It makes you a better mother!

December Mom of the Month - Holly Williams!

This month we recognize HOLLY WILLIAMS for her accomplishment and dedication to fitness, motherhood and life! Our Brea, Fullerton, Placentia and Yorba Linda Stroller Strides Team would like to say THANK YOU HOLLY for being part of our Stroller Strides family!

1. Who are the members of your family?
My husband Brian, daughter Emily (2 1/2 years), son Ethan (6 months), and myself!


2. What is or was your career?
6th Grade Teacher.

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?
I have been a member of Stroller Strides for a year and a half. It has been an outlet for me physically, socially and emotionally. I love it!

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
Let me count the ways!!!...The instant love you can feel for a human being, the range of emotions you can feel in a matter of minutes, and also the difference in the personalities that each child possesses (even though they come from the same 2 peopls!! lol).

5. Favorite website(s)?
Shutterfly.com...I love to download all my pictures and send them to family and friends to let them know what we have been up to! I also like to make fun projects using all my pictures of my kids!

6. List three current obsessions.
Iced Chai Latte, keeping my house clean (a little OCD), and the kids' schedules!

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
Make believe play.

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
PRAY! Pray over your children every night and remember that these sleepless nights are for but a moment! Find the joy in everything they do and truly realize how gast this time really does go!

November Mom of the Month - Jennifer Baptie!

This month we recognize JENNIFER BAPTIE for her accomplishment and dedication to fitness, motherhood and life! Our Brea, Fullerton, Placentia and Yorba Linda Stroller Strides Team would like to say THANK YOU JEN for being part of our Stroller Strides family!

1. Who are the members of your family?
My husband Jeff and I have two dogs, Daisy, an 80 pound black Lab and Roxie, a 13 pound little mutt. They are both rescue dogs and have been great company and very much loved.
We now have an addition to the family, a 9-month old son named Jake. Although we still love our dogs, Jake is now the main focus of our lives. Don’t worry; the dogs still have house privileges.

2. What is or was your career?
I am a criminal defense attorney and I’ve made the decision to stay home with my baby as long as possible. I am so fortunate to have the opportunity to stay home with him in his most precious months of life. I truly appreciate and cherish this time with Jake.

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?
I have been a member of Stroller Strides for about 6 months. I am so thankful for the support the group has provided. As a first time mom, I felt incredibly overwhelmed by the changes in my life, physically, emotionally, mentally, and professionally. I often wondered if the feelings I was having were normal. Talking and sharing with other moms about their experiences assured me that all the feelings I was having were perfectly normal. I have met many great moms in Stroller Strides and look forward to lasting friendships. And let’s not forget the awesome workouts! Kudos to the instructors for making each class fun AND challenging. You rock!

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
What surprised me the most was the instant love I felt for my baby. I mean, come on, it took at least a year before I felt the same way about my husband J. In all seriousness, to realize you would give up your life for your child is the purest love in the world. I was also surprised by how much time and energy is really focused on a new baby, from feeding and changing diapers to visitors and doctor appointments. It’s exhausting!

5. Favorite website(s)?
I’m not on the Internet much so no real favorites come to mind.

6. List three current obsessions.
My family, HGTV, and Mimosas on Sunday morning.

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
He loves bath time. I often light a candle for him. He likes the flicker of the light and it tends to calm him a little.

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
Don’t sweat the small stuff! You will not be a perfect housewife or have a perfect house for a long time and that’s okay. Also, get as much sleep as possible during those first several months. Nap when the baby naps. A little sleep goes a long way.

October Mom of the Month - Jennifer Maloof

This month we recognize JEN MALOOF for her accomplishment and dedication to fitness, motherhood and life! Our Brea, Fullerton, Placentia and Yorba Linda Stroller Strides Team would like to say THANK YOU JEN for being part of our Stroller Strides family!

1. Who are the members of your family?
My family consists of my husband Stan, me of course, Caden (age 4 1/2), Makenna (age 2) and our dog Toby, a German Shepard mix.

2. What is or was your career?
I had several jobs prior to motherhood. I was a P.E. Teacher Assistant for a couple years, substitute teacher and most recently I worked for a Plastic Surgeon in Newport Beach. I worked the front & back office and also did billing. And now just mommyhood...and I love it!

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?
I have been a member of Stroller Strides for exactly one year now....and for which I give many thanks to Lisa Friedman for introducing me to it. It has been a tremendous benefit to me. Besides meeting some great mammas, I have gained the strength training I had been lacking.

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
Motherhood brought a whole new perspective on love. I never thought I could love someone so much. I was afraid I couldn't love another child more than my first, but it amazes me how much love you have for all your children. And to think that our parents love us that much too!

5. Favorite website(s)?
Don't really have any. I like to check out Facebook every now and then to see what everyones up to.

6. List three current obsessions.
Stroller Strides, running, & my kids. My husband says healthy food and cleanliness....guess I would agree with that too!

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
I would say its when I play games with my kids. Caden loves when we play with his cars, trains, or fire trucks together. That was my answer, and when I asked Caden, he said its when I buy him cars.

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
Cherish every moment, cuz they grow up too darn fast. And just do what works for you, even if the books tell you otherwise, as long as its safe that is. And know that YOU are their most important role model.

Still Going

I am so proud of the moms who have stuck with our Coach's Oats Go the Distance incentive program. To be completely honest the numbers were quite daunting when we started the challenge back in May. We were asked to try to walk or run 100 miles in 120 days. The miles and the time seemed too big to be realistic, yet here we are at day 135 and well past 100 miles!

Below are the participants and their scores at day 120. I can only imagine what these numbers will be like on day 240 when our goal is 200 miles!

Angela Bridford 139 miles
Allison Clewett 139 miles
Kelli Clifton 128 miles
Lisa Estrada 135 miles (and she's pregnant!)
Lisa Friedman 283 miles
Jennifer Maloof 214 miles
Jessica Merrell 120 miles
Allyson Reeds 199.5 miles
Andrea Rueter 302.5 miles

September Mom of the Month - Theresa Benney

This month we recognize THERESA BENNEY for her accomplishment and dedication to fitness, motherhood and life! Our Brea, Fullerton, Placentia and Yorba Linda Stroller Strides Team would like to say THANK YOU THERESA for being part of our Stroller Strides family!

1. Who are the members of your family?
My husband Bryan, my two sons and our dog Chase. Everett is my eldest son who will be 2 this month and Ethan will be 6 months old this month! Chase is our first animal kid--he's a Maltese aka bedroom slipper dog.


2. What is or was your career?
I was a hairstylist for 6 years, I decided to change careers to sales then, when I became pregnant with my first son I decided to switch careers again and be a full time mom! I am currently studying for my real estate license and will be working with a great company part time.

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?
I have been a member for almost 2 years! Stroller Strides has changed my life! I am so lucky to have found Stroller Strides when I did! As a first time mom I was overwhelmed by the drastic change in my life from being a workaholic to a stay-at-home mom. Talking with other moms in my same situation helped me in my new role and made it a smooth transition!

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
Being a mom is 100% the best job and the hardest job in the world! You are on call 24 hours a day but also have the luxury of hanging out in the park with your children on a beautiful sunny day.

5. Favorite website(s)?
Facebook.com, flylady.net, and wanderingchopsticks.blogspot.com

6. List three current obsessions.
Potty Training, decorating my new home, and gardening.

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
Everett loves helping me cook in the kitchen!

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
A wise man once told me, "Wherever you are, be there." Be in the moment with wherever you are and whoever you are with because time passes in the blink of an eye.

Going the Distance!

CONGRATULATIONS to our Coach's Oats "Go The Distance" participants who completed 50 miles in 60 days!

Angela Bridgford
Heather Carlopio
Allison Clewett
Kelli Clifton
Lisa Estrada
Lisa Friedman
Jennifer Maloof
Jessica Merrell
Allyson Reeds
Andrea Rueter

The entire Stroller Strides family is so very proud of your dedication to fitness. Next stop, 100 miles in 120 days. You can do it...and by you, we mean all of you. Anyone can work toward the 100 mile goal regardless of participation in the first leg of the challenge. Simply log your miles on the Go The Distance calendar your instructor passes out at the start of each month. The deadline for 100 miles is September 16th. If you are a current participant keep adding to your mileage total so far. If you have been recording your mileage but didn't make the 50 miles in 60 days just continue to record and add to that mileage.

To learn more about the "Go The Distance" challenge please visit our website at www.strollerstrides.net/placentia

L.E.A.N. is Back!

I am so excited to be offering the L.E.A.N. program again this month! L.E.A.N. (Learn Eating Awareness and Nutrition) is an 8 week lifestyle weight management program designed to help you achieve a balanced body and a balanced mind. L.E.A.N. is based on a very positive, empowering approach to health. Using behavior and cognitive modification, stress reduction and social support, clients discover how to take the power out of food, and get off the diet cycle for life. This program gives women the tools they need to make healthy, positive changes in their lives.

Angela is a truly incredible L.E.A.N. counselor and I know that so many women will be benefitting from her guidance as they attend her classes on a weekly basis. Below are just a few comments from past participants that make me feel incredibly proud:

‎"I love the L.E.A.N. program. I have tried diets and had some success, but I really feel like this program taught me how to make a lifestyle change, both with the food I eat and the activities I participate in. There are so many greats t...ips that you can pick and choose the ones that work for you. I now feel more confident in making better, healthy choices for myself and my family! During the 8 week program I lost 10.8 pounds and approx 5 inches over all the places measured. It was fun to see the before and after picture of 8 shorts weeks and notice that my shirt was noticeably looser. I look forward to continuing the baby steps involved in creating a healthier me!" -Andrea R.

"L.E.A.N. taught me to WANT to eat healthier. I like the fact that L.E.A.N. doesn't emphasize calories or provide meal plans but teaches us to make better choices instead. As the instructor, Angela is very knowledgeable and motivating. This was my second time doing L.E.A.N. and I've lost a total of 28 lbs." -Lisa F.

This class helped me rethink my eating habits and make some positive changes that I know I can continue in the future. I have found myself using the phrase "make a better choice" quite frequently, and even used it today! Thanks so much for your time, expertise, and assistance throughout this process." -Teresa L.

"The LEAN program was an awesome experience. It not only helped me learn to make healthy choices for myself, but for my kids as well....and it's a positive lifestyle change that I think anyone could manage without feeling like they are dieting. Angela was an amazing instructor. She was so motivational and so helpful in every way possible. I would highly recommend this program." -Jennifer M.
See More

August Mom of the Month - Lisa Estrada

This month we recognize LISA ESTRADA for her accomplishment and dedication to fitness, motherhood and life! Lisa is one of our fabulous Playgroup Captains who organizes all the fun crafts, field trips and activities our little ones participate in as part of Stroller Strides. Our Brea, Fullerton, Placentia and Yorba Linda Stroller Strides Team would like to say THANK YOU LISA for being part of our Stroller Strides family!

1. Who are the members of your family?
My husband, Tom, and I have a 2 1/2 year old son named Ethan. We also have a tabby cat named Bentley.

2. What is or was your career?
Prior to landing my dream job of stay-at-home mom, I taught kindergarten and fifth grade for the Anaheim City School District. I quit my job about a year ago to stay home with Ethan and it was the best decision we ever made!

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?
I originally joined Stroller Strides when Ethan was about 8 weeks old. After I went back to work, Stroller Strides provided me with the opportunity to continue as a member and attend class during my vacations and sick days. Between attending Stroller Strides classes and participating in the LEAN program, I was able to lose 11 pounds in the last year! Aside from helping me achieve my weight-loss goals, Stroller Strides introduced me to many amazing moms and wonderful friends! Additionally, I have truly enjoyed my role as playgroup coordinator for Placentia/Yorba Linda...it appeals to the teacher in me! Participating in Stroller Strides has been a life-changing experience for Ethan and me and I recommend the program to every Mom I meet!

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
As a first time Mommy, everything has been new and interesting! I am amazed at how quickly time goes after you have kids. I can't believe that Ethan is already 2 1/2!

5. Favorite website(s)?
Facebook, HGTV.com, KraftFoods.com

6. List three current obsessions.
Coffee, working out/running, and reading

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
Ethan loves to be outside with me, so we spend much of our time in the backyard playing trucks, firefighters, and pirates. This summer he has discovered a love for swimming and we spend many afternoons in the pool. We also enjoy our weekly trips to Disneyland.

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
Whenever possible, I prep dinner during nap time. I also take a Saturday or Sunday at the beginning of the month to make and freeze as many meals as I can. It makes for less to do during that 4-7pm witching hour that all kids seem to have.

A Slower Pace

Lately I’ve felt pulled in a thousand different directions. There just doesn’t seem to be enough of me to go around, and the parts that I can pass out seem to fall short of my expectations. I’ve spent many an evening in the rocking chair nursing my baby to sleep wondering where the day went, why I wasn’t able to relax and enjoy the small moments with my kids more, and what was a really accomplishing in the time I could have been. I’m afraid to imagine what my children think of the manic mommy who flies through their world checking things off her to do list? As I take this time to reflect I realize that my children are the ultimate reminders of what truly counts in life. When their opinions, needs, and ideas tug at me as I rush through my day to get more done I should tune in better. For them I must stop and evaluate the significance of my daily accomplishments and actions, not only because increasing my interactions with them is healthier for us all, but also because my actions will have demonstrated that they are my priority. The excerpt below from momscape.com is one that mirrored these feelings, and has inspired me to take the time to really listen to that voice inside that has been telling me to slow down and enjoy each moment, and by doing so help my children learn to do the same. This month I encourage you all to take it a bit slower, find a pace that allows you to be a better mother, friend, and woman.

Maslow For Mamas: Slowing Down and Finding Your Pace
“…I have to ask myself, what am I in such a hurry for? Why are we all rushing so much? Are we rushing because we like it – because we feed on the false drama? Are we rushing so that we can fit in more things or so that we can make more money? Are we rushing to make some form of mark on the world and in the meantime risk missing our own lives?

There are those friends in life (if we make time for them) whose very presence slows us down. Just being with them says, “You can’t get it all done. You are already enough just the way you are, so let us set a pace in this life that we can enjoy.”

In truth, I think that’s what a family is for. At least that’s what I hope my kids will say that their family was for, when they have grown into busy parents and are striving to slow down for themselves.” - http://www.momscape.com/wordpress/2009/07/06/maslow-for-mamas-slowing-down-and-finding-your-pace/

July Mom of the Month - Kim Hurley!

Mom of the Month - Kim Hurley!
This month we recognize Kim Hurleyfor her accomplishment and dedication to fitness, motherhood and life! Our Brea, Fullerton, Placentia and Yorba Linda Stroller Strides Team would like to say THANK YOU KIM for being part of our Stroller Strides family!

1. Who are the members of your family?
Brian, myself, and Wyatt.


2. What is or was your career?
Before I had Wyatt I was working with my husband and learning all about the tax business. For many years before that I had been working at Santa Anita Race Track, Hollywood Park, and Del Mar Race Track as a foreman of a barn. I love working with the race horses and after 3 years on the race tracks I moved to Oregon to help run my grandmothers ranch. For many years now she has bred and sold horses. It was great to get a chance to work with the foals and yearlings. One day I will get back to working on the ranch, but for now we will stick with the breeding and selling side of the business.


3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?
I have been a member of Stroller Strides for almost a year now. Stroller Strides has been a great place to meet other moms and just have a good time. I love that Wyatt can play with his buddies everyday and I can have some adult conversation:)

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
Being a first time mom everything is a surprise, but I wouldn't want it any other way!

5. Favorite website(s)?
This is the first time I have been on the computer in about a month so no favorites, sorry.


6. List three current obsessions.
Real Housewives of New York (ok really I love them all), Toy Story, oh wait that is Wyatt's which by default makes it mine.


7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
Our favorite thing to do together is go look for trash trucks, trains, and of course fire trucks! I am convinced Wyatt thinks LA Fitness is a fire station, because we always find a fire truck there.

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
Do what feels right for you, because at the end of the day your sanity is most important:)

Ode to the Buggy

Saw this blog post and thought it appropriate for a group of moms who not only maneuver the world with strollers on a daily basis, but take it a step further by exercising with this all important piece of equipment. Below is an excerpt:

"Call ‘em what you will: buggies, pushchairs, strollers, prams, baby carriages, perambulators or carrycots. Although we’re aware of the function they serve, some of us seem to be unaware of the imprint these means of transport will leave on our bodies and minds."


"In my mind, whether it is pedestrian vs. buggy or buggy vs. buggy, the following should have the right of way:

Parents behind the wheel of a double/twin buggy
Parents who look severely sleep-deprived and are behind the wheel of a buggy
Parents who are pushing a child who is having a tantrum
Parents who are simultaneously pushing a buggy and carrying several bags
Parents pushing a buggy without a raincover in the pouring rain
Parents who are trying to simultaneously push a buggy and hold an umbrella
Parents who are behind the wheel of a buggy at the same time that they have lost one shoe, have a foot in plaster or are using a crutch
Parents who have one child in a buggy and another one or two running in a different direction to that in which the buggy is being pushed"



http://www.oomphalos.co.uk/2010/02/ode-to-the-buggy/

June Mom of the Month - Jen Stoa

1. Who are the members of your family?
Jon, Jen, Austin (3 yrs) and our dogs Moose and Max.

2. What is or was your career?
I did accounting/insurance for 4 years after college. I later received my teaching credential and taught 3rd grade. When I go back to work I will stick to accounting. It suits me much better!!

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?
I have been a member of Stroller Strides for 2 years. The first 6 months I stayed home with Austin were a big adjustment for me and joining Stroller Strides literally gave me back my sanity!!! Exercising, getting outdoors, and meeting other moms has been so beneficial for both of us. It is great to have a support group that knows the challenges you are facing as a mother and can offer advice or simply laugh about the crazy things our kids do! Austin looks forward to Stroller Strides too, which is just an added bonus!
4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
Motherhood is the much more challenging than I ever imagined. There are days when Austin just pushes the limits non-stop and drives me crazy! I want my son to be a happy and content child and later grow up to be a self sufficient and good man so I have to remember that no matter how relentless parenting can be I have to stay focused on that.

5. Favorite website(s)?
I do a lot of shopping online, but don't really have any favorite websites.

6. List three current obsessions.
Purses, home improvement and unfortunately cleanliness (it is one of my sicknesses!)

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
Austin and I spend a lot of time playing outside together. We play tee-ball, throw the football and ride bike. When he wakes up from his nap he asks me if we are going to play outside together. I think he enjoys the tomboy in me!

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
As parents, we are bombarded with advice from people about how long we should breastfeed, how to discipline, what we should feed our kids, and so on. I have to remind myself constantly that this is my child and I need to do what I think is best for him and my family. Advice is great, but at the end of the day you need to feel good about the decisions you have made for your children. Also, hug and kiss your children everyday because one day they wont want to!!!

May Mom of the Month - Tonya Keenan

1. Who are the members of your family?
Caleb, Caden (2), Connor (5 Months) & Rudy (4-year old Boston Terrier)

2. What is or was your career?
Advertising and Public Relations for Broadway Across America- the presenter of national touring shows in local markets. Shows like Wicked, The Lion King, Chicago etc. in cities like Orlando, Boston, Houston, etc. I was also a Wedding Planner.

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?Just over a year. It has been an incredible blessing in my life. My husband and I moved out here from Florida 15 months ago. When we arrived we knew nothing about the area and more importantly knew NO ONE. Through Stroller Strides I was able to meet so many amazing Moms that I have been able to build strong lasting friendships with. My husband has also been fortunate enough to meet many of the Stroller Strides Dads. It has been instrumental in my happiness and adjustment to being 3000 miles away from my family and life-long friends. The ability to get in to shape is simply a bonus!

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
I am surprised by what a tight bond Moms have. It is so much easier to meet and become friends with amazing people when you can compare notes over spit-ups, tantrums and sleep deprivation.

5. Favorite website(s)?
www.etsy.com www.babygap.com www.zappos.com

6. List three current obsessions.
Sweet Tea, blogging and card making

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?Caden's favorite thing that we do together is music class. He loves the instruments and the pleasant chaos that all the kids create.

8. Any tips for other moms out there?Keep a schedule, anticipate everything and pick your battles because a happy child makes a happy Mamma.

Go the Distance with Stroller Strides and Coach's Oats

Here at Stroller Strides we are always trying to find new ways to motivate, inspire, and move mothers towards a healthy lifestyle. This passion for health and fitness is one shared by our friends at Coach's Oats. This May Stroller Strides and Coach’s Oats are teaming up to put a spring in your step(s) and compel you to literally “Go the Distance!”

Through a collaborative incentive program all Stroller Strides members will be challenged to walk or jog in order to “Go the Distance.” Members will receive prizes based on their mileage.

50 miles in 60 days:
-“Go the Distance” 50 miles t-shirt
- Free 48 oz. bag of Coach’s Oats
- Name and/or photo recognition on the Coach’s Oats Facebook page

Similar prizes will be awarded for members who are able to cover 100 miles in 120 days and 200 miles in 240 days.

The incentive program is FREE, it simply requires you be diligent about getting the mileage done. Imagine the incredible benefits your body and your spirit will receive while working towards these goals! Many of you are already well on your way to that first 50 mile mark simply because you attend Stroller Strides classes on a regular basis.

Throughout the month of April your instructors will be sharing class mileage averages as well as ideas for obtaining additional mileage outside of Stroller Strides class. We hope that this program truly gets each of you moving!

Coach's Oats is “Oatmeal Reinvented.” 100% whole grain oatmeal with a hearty steel cut texture that cooks in minutes without getting soggy. I personally have enjoyed Coach’s Oats for a number of years and am pleased to share this product with all of you. For more information on Coach’s Oats as well as some delicious recipes ideas please visit their website at http://www.coachsoats.com.

April Mom of the Month - Rachel Shaw

Mom of the Month - Rachel Shaw!

1. Who are the members of your family?
My family consist of my husband, Ken, Cooper (he will be 3 in May) and baby (thing #2-as we refer to it) is due in May. We also have 2 dogs. Buddha is a 10 ½ year old Pit-bull boxer mix and Koa is a 10 year old German Sheppard mix. We got tem very soon after we were married. They were our first run at kids.

2. What is or was your career?
The last 2 years I worked as a classroom aid with special ed kids. I totally loved it.

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?
I started when Cooper was just 3 months old. It is weird to think it has been 2 ½ years. I love Striding. The women are so awesome! I truly believe my mothering skills would be completely different if I didn’t have SS in my life. Being able to have a multiday vent session every week with ladies who are in the same stages of mothering as I am is such a blessing. I know my husband certainly appreciates the benefits of SS as well. My body hasn’t looked this good in years. After we got married 10 years ago, exercise sort of went out the window as a major priority. My exercise routine has inspired him to workout in the mornings before he goes to work so we both get benefit from SS.

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
What a mental struggle it is. I knew I would be tired and it would be a struggle sometimes but Cooper is truly a handful. That boy keeps me on my toes almost all day (and sometimes not in a good way). I love him to death and couldn’t imagine life without him but he truly does try me sometimes.

5. Favorite website(s)?
I just get in and get out on the computer. I don’t take the time to linger so I don’t think I have a favorite.

6. List three current obsessions.
Chocolate will always be #1, getting ready for Thing #2 and trying to get/stay organized.

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
I would say Cooper likes it best when I just play with him. It doesn’t matter if I just sit under a sheet tent or make play dough balls with him, he just wants my full attention.

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
Being a mom is not always easy, no matter what you may have been lead to believe. Struggles and challenges are bond to come up. It is the way you react to those challenges that matters. Giving in to your child is not the way to go even if it is the easier route. Being consistent in your parenting style is hard sometimes but it really is the best way to go. And always remember…these little guys/gals just want to be loved. Stop and laugh with them. It just might be the best thing you did all day!

Meet the Team!

This month, rather than nominating a Mom of the Month, I thought it would be nice for everyone to get to know our instructors a little better. Each one of the instructors in our franchise first joined Stroller Strides as a member. They were then so inspired by the amazing women they met in class, and moved by the changes that Stroller Strides created in their lives that they decided to train as instructors. I know that all our instructors are as passionate about Stroller Strides as I am, and that they are all committed to being a positive force in all of your lives. Each one brings her unique personality to the park for class and leaves us all with a piece of her spirit when she is done. I feel incredibly fortunate to know and work with these women!

Please take a look at the Meet the Team link above to learn more about all our Stroller Strides instructors!

The Sisterhood of Motherhood

“No woman is an island … even when she desperately wants to be. Like it or not, when you become a mom, you are automatically inducted into a global sisterhood that spans time as well as space. “Mom” is a universal and eternal entity; so when you join this group, you are truly becoming part of something larger than yourself.

On a more intimate level, motherhood gives us a second chance at creating special friendships with other women. I have always regretted losing touch with many of my high school and college girlfriends. Life seemed to move so fast, and we were all going in different directions … it was too easy to let the lines of communication go dead. But, when I had my son, I was suddenly plunged into a whole new community. Overnight, I found myself meeting other new moms with new babies. Because we were all in a constant state of dull panic (mostly brought on by inexperience and sleep deprivation), we bonded immediately. It was indescribably comforting to know that other moms were facing the same challenges – head on, with that deer-in-headlights expression on their haggard faces.” - http://fansofbeingamom.com

My non-mommy friends are wonderful, they remember my birthday and invite me to lunch, even email me on a regular basis, but my mommy friends they understand the power of small gestures that bring me back to me on a crazy day. Emergency babysitting, remaining unfazed by the loud screeching my child lets out at random intervals, meals when my babies first came home from the hospital, advice about potty training, and so many other acts of kindness help me be a better me and therefore a better mom.

Stroller Strides helps us all continue on our journeys through motherhood by providing a network of support and friendship based on mutual understanding and care. Each day presents new challenges and new joys as a mom. I find it encouraging to know that my Stroller Strides sisters are beside me every step of the way. This spring we have several Stroller Strides members bringing home new babies and starting that process of infant to toddler mothering that can be so taxing. I’d like to show them the power of our Stroller Strides Sisterhood in Motherhood by arranging meal delivery and providing support in all the small ways that carry us through. I will be sending out sign-up sheets for meal delivery and special birth announcement emails periodically. I hope we can all share our experience, love, and support.

Two Simple Ways to Be a Happier Parent

By Nancy Shute , USNews.com

When Christine Carter became a parent, she realized that her work as a sociologist who studies happiness gave her a head start on being a good and happy parent. Rather than trying to solve problems in her family, she wanted to prevent them. That got her wondering what makes for happy families and children. The result of that questioning is Raising Happiness (Ballantine Books).

The book is chock-full of words—gratitude, forgiveness, optimism, and inner peace—I associate more with meditation than parenting manuals. But it's not at all woo-woo. Carter grounds her path to happiness in solid science, including behavioral psychology, which explains why praise is much more powerful in getting children to behave than punishment or nagging. Many of the findings are surprisingly simple. For instance, would you like to know the one thing that will make children do better in school, help them have fewer emotional problems, and make them less likely to become obese or have drug or alcohol problems? Eat dinner together as a family.

Science and simplicity in the service of happier families: That sounds like a winner. So I called up Carter, executive director of the Greater Good Science Center at the University of California-Berkeley, and asked her how I could start making my own family happier.

She said to start off by asking two questions about your life as a parent:

1. When are you happiest with your kids?

2. What part of the normal day with your family routinely causes suffering?

Then make sure your day is structured so that you get routine, habitual happiness and so that you're eliminating habitual pain.

Carter says that when she asked herself the second question, she realized that she hated getting her two daughters out the door for school. "Every single morning I was yelling at my kids [at] approximately the same time and for the same reason," she says.

So she decided to restructure those mornings so they'd be a shared joy, or at least neutral. The science of changing habits says you have to start off supersmall and build over weeks to a bigger result. So she had the kids put their shoes by the door the night before. In the morning, "I ended up setting a timer," Carter says. "It goes off twice. The first time it goes off, it means clear your dishes and go brush your teeth. The second is walk out the door to the bus." By the next morning, she says, "we didn't have such a bad morning. We had taken the first step."

Just as she changed the family's daily routine to make that one stressful period less miserable, Carter also focused on amplifying the moment that gives her the most joy in parenting. "For me, the most joy always comes at the end of the day when I'm putting the kids to bed" and they're telling me about their three good things [that happened in the day]. That's my most luscious thing, the thing I enjoy the most." To make sure that she didn't miss out on that moment when she had to work in the evenings, "we just moved [that bedtime routine] to after school. They sit on the couch with me and cuddle, and we read a book and they tell me about their three good things."

Carter says that despite her deep knowledge of the science of happiness, she doesn't always do the right thing as a parent. "It's part of the journey, an incremental improvement process. But it's amazing to me how much this stuff works when you have the intention to have a happier morning," she says.

That's my challenge for the week: Make a happy moment with my child part of our routine, and engineer out one annoying bit of parenting. And I challenge you do to the same, too. What will be your happiness moment? What suffering will you avoid?

I Love Stroller Strides!

I found this Stroller Strides video online and it made me smile. I love Stroller Strides, and at times I do want to shout and sing about how this program has changed my life. Plus, my boys are constantly singing their favorite rock tunes from the likes of Bon Jovi, the Black Eyed Peas, the Zac Brown Band and Aerosmith. I can just hear them rockin' Joan Jett with this SS twist.

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P.S. That's our awesome instructor Angela in the first clip!

Pregnant Moms Rock!

A couple of days ago I saw this post online about a woman on the Canadian curling team who is five months pregnant and I just loved the picture. Would she be the first pregnant woman on the podium should they win? There's somethin' for the baby book:)

http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/vancouver/blog/fourth_place_medal/post/Canadian-curler-is-five-months-pregnant?urn=oly,219941

Boys v. Girls...Who is harder to parent?

Without fail, the topic of gender differences comes up in each and every group of mothers I participate in. Whether it be a vent session after Stroller Strides class as the mothers of boys hang out "running" their children just a bit longer, or an afterschool question answer period with the preschool mommies I chat with as we wait to pick up our little ones. We all have an opinion on whether boys or girls require more "work" as a parent.

The general consensus from all the moms I've spoken with is that boys are more energetic, less responsive to requests, and less concerned with safety which requires a great deal of anticipation and energy on our part as moms. Girls on the other hand, are more stubborn and opinionated which requires more patience as a mom. Most of us have agreed though that boys are harder now as toddlers and children, but the girls will more than make up for that as they become teenagers.

Below is a link to an article that goes into more depth on the topic. It includes research and opinions from "experts" (though I consider every mom an "expert") that support the assertations and conclusions we've all come to on our own. I found it interesting.

http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/family-parenting/articleparenting.aspx?cp-documentid=23256506&page=0

Mom of the Month - Lisa Friedman!

It is so fun to learn more about the moms in our group each day in class. You are all inspirational women with incredible talents and passions that I am constantly amazed to learn about. Finding out more about one special "Mom of the Month" each month is a great way to be inspired all over again. I hope that each of you finds something new and interesting when you meet and read about our Mom of the Month. You may share a hobby, experience, or point of view that you didn't know about before, or you may simply think "Wow I didn't know she did that." Either way enjoy!

This month's honoree is Lisa Friedman. Lisa attends classes at our Yorba Linda location, and she was kind enough to answer some questions I sent out. Below is more about our Mom of the Month, Lisa!

1. Who are the members of your family?
Myself, Jerry and Skyler

2. What is or was your career?
I was a graphic artist in entertainment advertising and commuted to L.A. for about 13 years. Before that I was an advertising designer at the Press-Telegram newspaper in Long Beach.

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you? I joined in October of 2006 when Skyler was almost 4 months old. I was a clueless first time mom, so I learned a lot from all the moms. It's also been great for Skyler to have playtime at the park with all the kids. The workouts and doing the LEAN program have really helped me to improve my fitness/health.

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
How hard it is and how fun it is.

5. Favorite website(s)?
Ebay, Shutterfly, Spark People

6. List three current obsessions.
Running, diet coke, my roomba vacuum

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
Play pretend preschool or princesses

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
Even though it's sad to see them grow up so fast, the older they get, the more fun they get.

Family Fitness Fest Recap!

January’s Family Fitness Fest event was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who helped make the day so fun. Seeing so many happy, healthy mommies with their smiling kiddos in tow lining the sidewalks and grassy areas at Jessamyn West Park made me feel incredibly fortunate. I am honored to be a part of such a positive program and to spend my time working with my children and my friends each day.

Our recipe for success included 46 participants, 3 new members, 1 Cinderella (with many little Prince Charmings following her around), 18 painted faces, 22 fruit loop necklaces, too many smiles to count, and lots of muffins!

Below is a listed of companies whose generous support helped to make our event possible:

Albertson’s
Andrea Gene Photography
ASICS America
Before the Stork 4D Ultrasound
Close to my Heart Scrapbooking
Coach’s Oats
First 5 California
Corner Bakery Café
Freckled Frog Learning Center
Imperial Smile Dentistry
Lauren Howard (Cinderella)
Little Peanut Boutique - Jessica Merrell
Luna
Mary Kay Cosmetics
My Gym of Yorba Linda
Rainbow Kids Hairstyling
Seeking Sitters - Linda Burnette
Northwester Mutual - Brian Forth

Baby Steps Towards New Year's Resolution Success!

Thousands of new moms anxiously awaited the ball drop as they counted down the last 10 seconds of 2009, acknowledging aspirations for a speedy return to their skinny jeans or keeping daily stress at bay. To ensure we don’t drop the ball when it comes to these New Year’s resolutions, here are the "Top 10 Tips for a Healthier, Happier You" – a list of key lifestyle habits new moms can easily adopt to support the success of postnatal health goals.

A successful New Year’s resolution for a new mom is one that’s in reach. When you create simple-to-adopt, attainable targets, the transition to a healthier lifestyle becomes more seamless and you’re less inclined to slip up or give up on your goals.

To stay on the road to resolution success, stay consistent with the following countdown:

10. Adopt a daily exercise philosophy. No matter if it’s a brisk stroller walk or a few sets of crunches and stretches during baby’s nap time, find some time each day to move your body.

9. Take time for yourself. Moms are consistently trying to take care of everyone else, but this role is impossible if you don’t take care of yourself. Whether it’s meditation or a quick read before bed, make sure "me time" is set aside daily.

8. Must eats. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Try to eat whole foods (unprocessed and unrefined).

7. Don’t eats. Anything processed. Stay away from fried foods and those high in sugar and salt.

6. Must drink. Water! Every system in the body depends on water, but most people don’t even realize when they’re dehydrated. Make sure you’re filling up your water bottle throughout the day and consuming around two or more liters.

5. Seek out a supportive social network. There are actually physical and psychological benefits for women when they socialize - especially with other women. Join an exercise group like Stroller Strides, a moms’ club or use the internet as a resource to reach out to other moms.

4. Fill up on fiber. Virtually all diets recommend a high-fiber intake. Add flax to your cereal or morning smoothie and make sure you’re eating plenty of fruits, veggies and legumes.

3. Take on a self-esteem mantra. Your words influence your world. Find three words to repeat to yourself each day that will help you find well-being, such as ’peace,’ ’health’ and ’harmony.’

2. Breathe. You of course breathe every moment of the day, but find a few minutes to breathe with purpose. Breathe in for three counts; hold for three counts; and release for three counts. Your body will benefit from the oxygen and stress will slowly melt away.

1. Advertise to yourself. Most New Year’s resolutions are soon forgotten. Just like advertisers send subliminal messages to remind you to buy their product, you should put up notes throughout your home to remind yourself what you’re trying to accomplish and why.

Mom of the Month! - Lauren Humphreys

Our Stroller Strides group is filled with interesting, funny, savvy, caring, downright amazing women. Each month I hope to highlight one of our outstanding moms as a way of getting to know each other better and sharing our skills, interests and ideas. This month's honoree is Lauren Humphreys. Lauren attends classes at our Fullerton location, and she was kind enough to answer some questions I sent out. Below is more about our Mom of the Month, Lauren!

1. Who are the members of your family?
Chris (husband), Jordan (2 1/2), James (6 months)

2. What is or was your career?
I was a sales rep for a commercial printing company in Anaheim.

3. How long have you been a member of Stroller Strides and what has it done for you?
I've been a SS member since Jordan was 9 or 10 months old, so almost 2 years. I love the workout I get and I've also made some really good friends. It is so nice to visit with the other moms after class to talk about what we go through on a daily basis.

4. What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
How good the feeling is when you see your kids smile because they're happy.

5. Favorite website(s)?
Probably Facebook. I love seeing what my family and friends are up to.

6. List three current obsessions.
Mochas from McDonald's, I have to stop!
Love shopping at a new Styles for Less by my house.
Reading anything fiction when I have the time.

7. What is your child's favorite thing about you or favorite thing that you do?
For Jordan it is turning music on loud and dancing with him. For James it is singing to him.

8. Any tips for other moms out there?
Have fun and play with your kids everyday, the housework can wait!