pkchewy's Journal, 21 Nov 22

I struggled when kid was small, all I can say from experience is don't eat their leftovers! Also, I would put 1 clean laundry item away at a time, the steps really add up! 

Ah been there but could have done with this group's input and support back then. I placed too much effort in putting all 4 of my kids before myself. Big mistake! Make sure to have your meals on a regular time basis and force yourself to eat slowly and enjoy your meals. (no scoffing down your meal or jumping up to quickly do a chore or sort out squabbling kids. Make it clear to your kids this is quiet time and if possible, eat together and chat (no electronic devices) if weather is good, pack for a picnic in your yard or somewhere nice. When my kids could ride bikes with bub on the back of mine, each had a small backpack and we'd do a days playground crawl and stopping for snack, ride then lunch stop (with ready made sandwhiches and water bottles). I found housework and caring for my kids was my exercise, I never stopped. I did my walks when they were in bed asleep (5.30am) the world was quiet and still during those walks I loved it.  

Stay on top of all your house chores the day looks so much promising when everything is in order remember that it’s all about momentum it’s takes me a few days to get the house right but my priority is the kids homework dinner and quality time i make sure that’s done because happy kids makes you happy and you get a better routine going. Planning your kids routine is just as important as your own eating and exercising routine you will find time to get your exercises done also just moving a lot around the house is really good it all adds up. 

One meal a day (OMAD) has been working pretty well for me. I eat a big, peaceful meal at around 3-4pm before picking the little terrors up from day care. 

double every meal you make and put half in the freezer. Some nights you won't want to cook. Pad out spag boll with a can of lentil, grated zucchini and carrot and that should make multiple meals. I am from a family of 8. 

Yep, baby steps and try setting a routine with them involved. The way it worked with me was to put a kids yoga dvd on at the same time I was exercising. My now 8 & 9 year old still join in on the treadmill and other exercises and love it. If they’re still babies, just keep your movement constant 😊 

Meal planning and portion size are key! I was always very active when my kids were small, but when they turned into teens and I kept dishing up the same size meals for me as them, the kilos started piling on. I've learnt that I didn't need to finish their meals, I rarely need afternoon tea, and I certainly don't need to eat as much as a teen.  

When you want to snack eat foods that contain a lot of water like grapes, apples etc and vegetables. I am also replacing my pasta and some of my rice dishes with potatoes and sweet potatoes as they are less calorie dense and contain lots of water which helps fill you up more 😘 

Thanks so much everyone such grest advice. Yes you are all right meal prep and find time for me is so hard but only I can do it and the routine is the other main one too need to sort that out also.