Michelle's Musings: A Mom-Friendly Workout Solution

It is January - need I say more? It's that "fabulous" time of year when we finally slow down post-holidays and regroup. OH. MY. GOSH. How did I gain 12 pounds in 6 weeks?! Yes, it's THAT time of year. New year, new promises, new you... which usually means a new, expensive gym membership.

Anyone who knows me well is aware that I am a vocal Physique 57 addict. I am in their studio 3 - 6 times per week and have been since June of 2006. 

Physique 57 is an innovative workout program that uses your body’s own weight as resistance (a welcome break for Supermoms who spend their days lifting 30-40 pound toddlers). Through dynamic exercises, your muscles are targeted and overloaded to the point of fatigue, then stretched for relief. Physique calls this process "interval overload" which includes gut-wrenching arm exercises, intense thigh and seat sequences, a solid 10 minutes of ab moves and fluid stretches throughout and at the end of the class.

When a friend asked me to attend a Physique class with her at the Bridgehampton location way back in summer 2006, I wasn't sure what to expect. The class was challenging but manageable with a very positive and encouraging environment. The teachers learn your name quickly and only positively reinforce you so you will never feel inadequate or in the "spotlight." During that first month, I only attended one class per week and after only four weeks I (seriously) lost one inch off of EACH leg. It was a mini-miracle for me and I never looked back. My biggest motivator is the ability to "turn off my brain" for an hour which as a mother is so rare.  

Yes, I promise you CAN look like this!

One of the best aspects of Physique is that you can continue the technique throughout pregnancy with only slight modifications. Unlike other exercise programs, you will see women in advanced level classes who are easily 7-9 months pregnant rocking out. It is amazing on the back end as well when you are ready to bounce back post-delivery after your doctor gives the A-okay of course. You should check out a prenatal workshop if you are in the NYC area and your schedule allows it. Prenatal instructor Alicia (who is even pregnant right now) is a disarming guide to exercise with a growing bump.

Prenatal instructor Alicia

So, you don't live in New York, LA or the Hamptons? No problem! Physique just launched three new online workouts (Physique F.I.T., Physique Cardio and Physique Prenatal) as well as two existing DVDs (Classic 57 Minute Full Body Workout and the Thigh and Seat Booster).

All 30 minute videos are $5 and the 57 minute videos are $7 which gives clients 48 hour access. Clients also have the option to sign up for the monthly unlimited program for $57 which provides unlimited access to all the videos for 31 days. That is a serious steal considering a single studio workout is $36.

Co-founder Tanya Becker works with a client

Sign up for online workouts pronto:  http://www.physique57.com/online-workouts.html Your swimsuit (and husband) will thank you later!

The Amazing Apple

A Delicious Way to Keep the Doctor Away!

Surprisingly, the apple is a member of the rose family.  It has a flavor range unlike any other fruit. Depending on the type, apples can be deliciously sweet or refreshingly tart, making it an instant hit with your little one's developing palate. Along with being a tasty snack, apples also offer many incredible health benefits such as increased bone density and the prevention of asthma. Sounds like the that old adage might actually be true!

Apple Butter

Ingredients

• 1 pound apples peeled and chopped (OR 9 containers Petit Organics Simply Apples) 
• 3 tablespoons fresh pressed apple juice (skip this step if using Petit Organics simply apples)
• 2 tablespoons organic maple syrup (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and/or cloves to taste

Preparation

1. Place all ingredients in a medium to large pot with a tight lid and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until the apples are soft enough to mash with the back of a wooden spoon.  It will take 15 - 25 minutes.  (skip this step if using Petit Organics Simply Apples)
3. Remove the apple mixture from heat and puree with an immersion blender.  You can also place the apple mixture in a food processor/blender, but make sure to use the pulse button in short spurts until smooth so the mixture does not get too watery.  You want a thick and smooth consistency.
4. Serve warm or store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.  A great treat on toast, bagels, pancakes, a glaze for meats or even frosting on your favorite cake!

Yields 8 - 10 servings. Bon appétit to you and your bébés!

Over the Moon for Oats!

Oat FAQs:

Oats, oat bran, and oatmeal are all whole grains that are packed with fiber and phytonutrients. They help increase energy levels and minimize the incidence of asthma in children. This awesome grain also boasts an impressive nutritional profile of antioxidants such as magnesium, zinc, phosphorus and Vitamin E.  Oats derive their nutty flavor from the roasting process that takes place after harvesting and cleaning. Interestingly, oats also retain their germ and bran which allows them to maintain their complete nutritional makeup. This is a fantastic grain for the vegan and gluten-free foodies out there!

Vegan Pear-Oat Super Smoothie Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 containers Petit Organics Simply Pear (or two medium pears, cooked and pureed)
• 1/2 cup water  
• 2 ripe bananas 
• 1/2 cup uncooked organic quick oats
• 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves (optional) 
• 5 ice cubes  

Preparation     

Puree all ingredients in a blender until smooth and creamy, about two to three minutes. Serve room temperature or chilled. You can also pour this mixture into Popsicle molds for a delicious and healthy afternoon indulgence!

Yields 2 - 3 servings.  Bon appétit to you and your bébés!

Introducing Solids: A Timeline Suggestion

If you're like most new mommies, starting your wee one on solids is both incredibly exciting, yet intimidating and overwhelming. There are so many questions around "when is my baby ready to...?" that we have put together an easy-peasy cheat sheet of the most asked about foods and simple suggestions from the Petit Organics Team.

• Water: When you have the go ahead from you pediatrician to introduce solids (between 4-6 mos), you can allow a little bit of water each day, but limit it to maximum of 4 ounces.  Breastmilk and formula are rich in nutrients and vitamins that are oh-so-important to your little one's growing body.
• Cereal: Usually introduced between 4-6 months of age, when your baby has lost his tongue-thrust reflex. However, unless otherwise directed by your pediatrician, we recommend by-passing the cereal stage altogether and instead start with fresh fruits and veggies. Many pediatricians are now suggesting this because there is very little to no nutritional value in commercially prepared and over-processed baby cereals.
• Dairy foods: Cheese, cottage cheese and yogurt (all made with whole milk and without added sugars/salt) are A-okay by 6 months, but hold off on cow milk until at least the 1st birthday. At that point, speak to your pediatrician about a transition schedule.
• Bread and Crackers: By 9 months babies are typically ready to try all "bready" foods, as long as they are kept under close parental supervision. The number of teeth is really not an issue, as their gums are surprisingly strong on their own. Be particular about reading nutrition labels - the first ingredient listed should start with the word "whole" and each serving should have at least 4 grams of fiber.
• Finger foods: Typically introduced around 9-10 months of age, when your baby has developed a pincer grasp (able to pick things up with thumb and forefinger). Your little one is finally ready to take an active role in mealtime! Offer a variety of foods at each meal like soft pieces of fruit, cooked diced veggies and soft brown rice or pasta are all great options.  Be sure these foods are cut into 1/4 inch cubes to prevent choking.
• Foods Known to be Allergens:  Please consult your pediatrician as different doctors suggest different timelines.   It is important to note that at least 50% of the time allergies appear to be hereditary so check up on your family history.
• Honey: Be sure to hold off until after 12 months of age on this one.  Honey may contain botulism spores which can lead to botulism poisoning in babies.  Until 12 months of age, you can sweeten things up with a fresh fruit puree like apples or use a small amount of maple syrup which is safe for babies.

Bon appetit to you and your bébés! Click here to start building your Petit Organics Petit Pack now.

Photos credit James Daniel

Five Tips for Taking Better Pictures of Your Little Ones

This list of perfect pointers is brought to you by Meridith Desmond Photography, a very talented NYC family and child photographer.  She has a knack for snapping emotions, love and laughter between family members. Meredith will capture your story through her lens, creating real memories of your family in a fun, colorful and artistic way. We at Petit Organics are very big fans of her photojournalistic style. Be sure to follow her on Facebook and on Twitter. She is also offering 10% off all 2013 sessions booked when you mention "Petit Organics." Thank you, Meridith!

1. Wear bright, coordinating colors and patterns to make your photos pop and stand out.
2. Take your kids outside! The natural light of the sun is flattering on everyone and you can capture some beautiful images with your camera on auto mode when you have a strong light source. Even your cell phone camera will make beautiful photos when used outside.
3. Keep the sun to your back when photographing. This is true especially in auto mode so you do not get silhouettes of your kids (unless of course that is what you intend to do)!
4. The best possible lighting occurs during the first two or last two hours of daylight. It is also good to look for open shade or areas that are shady but where you can still see the sky above you. For example, near a building or under a tree. These spots have particularly beautiful light at any time of day.
5. Encourage your children to have fun! The best images of children are not when they are looking straight at you saying "cheese," but rather when their personality shines through in the photograph. Helping your child relax will bring out more chances to capture these special moments.

Happy snapping everyone!

Top photo credit Meridith Desmond Photography
Bottom photo credit James Daniel

Vegetarian Zucchini Cakes

As a mother of three boys, I oft find myself looking for ways to add (er.. dump) more protein into my children's diets.  "They are growing boys and need their red meat!"  Or so my Texas mother emphasizes when we catch up on phone calls.  However, it's easy to forget that vegetables, fruits and grains are just as important as protein. Preparing a veggie-centric meal doesn't have to be as challenging as it sounds.

This is a recipe I picked up during my travels to Greece - particularly to Kalamata (where the olives are grown!).  The Greek word is kolokythokeftedes which literally means "Zucchini Balls." Please don't let the name put you off. It really is quite delicious and easy to replicate at home. Recreating the oceanside table in Greece might be close to impossible though!

Zucchini Cakes
Makes 6-8 servings


Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small to medium onion, finely diced
• 6 small zucchinis, grated (the darker the green, the better!)
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 3 tablespoons grated parmesan or pecorino cheese
• 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 eggs, scrambled
• Sea salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste
• Tzatziki sauce for dipping, optional
• Fresh dill to sprinkle on top, optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix all ingredients together in a mixing bowl. Form the mixture into small balls, approximately two tablespoons in size. Place the balls on the parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten slightly (to form a "patty" shape).  Bake for 15 minutes on each side for a total of 30 minutes.  Option to add the tzatziki sauce and dill sprigs on top.  Serve warm or cold.

Bon appetit to you and your bébés!