Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.3, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Clare Smith Bringing Clarity to Women on the Front Line ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.claresmith.me/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://www.claresmith.me/?page_id=9) - [Summertime Book Stack](https://www.claresmith.me/summertime-book-stack/) - We’re nearing the end of summer and if you had the best intentions of reading through one (or a couple!) books, but haven't gotten to, there’s still time! The books I’m recommending are ones that are light enough to stop when you’ve been interrupted to break up a fight, open up a cheese stick, let - [Malone University](https://www.claresmith.me/malone/) - Hey friends! Here are some great resources for your workouts! 30 minute Treadmill/Weight Workout 25 minute Elliptical Workout "Living and Active" Training Guide (2 Bonus Workouts at the end) 4.) 4 Minute Bodyweight Tabata 5.) 60 Minute Full Body Weight Workout And a video to explain each exercise! - [Top 10 Posts](https://www.claresmith.me/top-10-posts/) - I love seeing these on other people's websites. It helps me get a good idea of what they are about and what content really connects with their readers! Here are some of my top posts over the past 4 years, in no particular order! (Click on the links to follow the posts!) Renovated, but not - [Noonday Collection](https://www.claresmith.me/noonday-collection/) - I'm having a Noonday Collection Trunk Show and am inviting you to come--well, virtually, at least! If you make a purchase from now until June 7th, I'll put you in a drawing to win a piece from their collection! Also- I know it's important to be frugal, so I put together an image with items - [Unleash: a leadership cohort](https://www.claresmith.me/unleash/) - Sign up below! (Check out a short video about it here!) Loading… - [Eat Well](https://www.claresmith.me/eat-well/) - Eating is perhaps the piece to the health puzzle that causes the most frustration. We are inundated with food everywhere we go and with different ways to approach it. And let’s face it–the things we ate when we were younger, we just can’t get away with as we age. Old habits die hard. I want to help you have a healthy relationship with food. To know that it’s something that fuels our body, but also something God has created for enjoyment! I want to help you not just eat, but eat well. - [Live Free](https://www.claresmith.me/live-free/) - LIVE FREE: It's the culmination of balancing the other 2 areas; "train hard" and "eat well", but it's also HOW we find our answers to them! - [Train Hard](https://www.claresmith.me/train-hard/) - TRAIN*: "teach a particular skill or type of behavior through practice and instruction over a period of time. cause (a mental or physical faculty) to be sharp, discerning, or developed as a result of instruction or practice." - [Your Second New Year](https://www.claresmith.me/your-second-new-year/) - Welcome to the info for "Your Second New Year!" Do you feel that you’ve lost traction with what you were focused on in January? Have you found your interests changing? Are you an empty nester, or did your house which was filled with littles all of a sudden empty as they all entered school? DidWelcome to the info for "Your Second New Year!" Do you feel that you’ve lost traction with what you were focused on in January? Have you found your interests changing? Are you an empty nester, or did your house which was filled with littles all of a sudden empty as they all entered school? Did - [GIANT](https://www.claresmith.me/giant/) - Sign up for one free month of leadership TV here! https://www.giant.tv/claresmith - [Take it Back {Plus} Challenge](https://www.claresmith.me/take-it-back-plus-challenge/) - Here's all the info from the Take it Back Challenge all in one place! INTRODUCTION PREP-WORK & FAQ'S WEEK 1: RELATIONSHIPS WEEK 1: VIDEO WEEK 2: BODY,SOUL, & TIME WEEK 2: VIDEO WEEK 3: PURPOSE,MISSION, & CALLING WEEK 3: VIDEO - [Hearts at Home](https://www.claresmith.me/hearts-at-home/) - Living and Active Training Guide. Purchase here! - [Why Peak 313](https://www.claresmith.me/why-313/) - Wondering where I came up with Peak 313? Glad you asked. I did a brief survey of my aerobics students, asking them some of the phrases I used in classes. You know…to help me define what I really say. Since “Get your booty down” wouldn’t be an appropriate blog name, I had to go a different route. - [febYOUary: an 18 guide connecting YOU with your health](https://www.claresmith.me/febyouary-an-18-guide-connecting-you-with-your-health/) - [Essential Oils](https://www.claresmith.me/essential-oils/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”] My story: I heard about essential oils for almost 2 years before I bought them. Being in the online world, you can’t avoid hearing about them! Pinterest, blog posts, and instagram accounts are flooded with the - ["Living + Active" Challenge](https://www.claresmith.me/livingandactive/) - Introducing the 7th Annual "Living + Active" Challenge! Purchase (optional) training guide here! Living & Active FAQ's Week 1: ""Tied Together" : Week 1-3 Suggested Workouts + Memory Verses + More Week 2: "Daily Dedicated" + First Check-In Week 3: "Craving Conquerors" + Second Check-In Guest Post by Candace Cameron Bure on being a Craving Conqueror - ["Dream it. Do it." Vision Boards](https://www.claresmith.me/dream-it-do-it-vision-boards-2/) - We are not officially going to do vision boards for 2016 together, but I want to make this information available to you! Here is the information to help guide you through this year's "Dream it. Do it." Vision Boards! Note: There is one printable has "2014" on it, so you will want to change that, - [Recipe: *Kid-Friendly* Fluffy Peanut Butter Dip](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-kid-friendly-fluffy-peanut-butter-dip/) - I got this recipe from my friend, Julia quite a few years ago. I have made it for many parties, play-dates and of course, for my family to enjoy. It's very kid-friendly, so use this as a healthier way to beef up some protein for your kids! The original recipe calls for vanilla yogurt, but - [7 Misconceptions About Me {a fitblogger}](https://www.claresmith.me/7-misconceptions-about-me-a-fitblogger/) - I've decided that I want to break some preconceived ideas about me in regards to health and fitness. I want to show you that I am just like you, I just happen to have a certification in fitness and a passion for sharing it with others. I've heard these 7 misconceptions multiple times in my - [Who are you and What do you want?](https://www.claresmith.me/who-are-you-and-what-do-you-want/) - One of the most important things writers--blog or book--need to know is who their audience is. I have to be honest. I've been at this blog for a year..... I STILL struggle with finding who I'm writing to. ♦ Am I writing to Christians or non-Christians? ♦ Am I writing to the fitness lover or the fitness - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-2/) - It's time for this week's "Rock it. Work it. Love it. Friday"! Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. I love playing with hairstyles. I recently cut off about - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-5/) - I've got a little housekeeping to do before we get onto another installment of Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays! I will be taking a week off of blogging next week. My husband is on spring break and we have quite a few things to get caught up on around the house plus we - [Birthday Bash Winners!!](https://www.claresmith.me/birthday-bash-winners/) - Thank you all for being a part of my birthday bash! I hope you enjoyed the video workout I had for you too! I'd like to thank those who gave gifts for the bash. Be sure to check out their web pages! Lilla Rose Hair Accessories (Buy 3 get 1 free for new customers!) Darlene - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-6/) - Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. I LOVE orange (or melon) and navy! As a matter of fact, that's what I'm hoping to dress my family in for Easter on Sunday! - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-7/) - Today's post is coming to you during a layover from the Charlotte airport! LOL! I am traveling to Savannah, GA for the weekend for a friend's wedding! (My sister is a flight attendant so this wouldn't be possible without her perks!) Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can - [My Trip to Savannah, GA!](https://www.claresmith.me/my-trip-to-savannah-ga/) - Friday morning, I flew to Savannah for a childhood friend's wedding. It was my first trip there and it was fantastic! I met my parents, sister and niece there so it was a half-family vacation! (My in-laws came in for the long weekend to help out my hubby in watching the kids at home.) I - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-8/) - I'm enjoying veering off of the fitness stuff a bit on "Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays". I hope you are enjoying them, too! Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-9/) - Welcome to today's installment of Rock it. Work it. Love it. Friday! Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. I love hats of all kinds. I really am enjoying all the different - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-10/) - Welcome to today’s installment of Rock it. Work it. Love it. Friday! Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. If you find yourself fashion challenged, and need help with color combinations and what - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-13/) - Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. June is here which means many of you are amping up your outdoor running! Depending on how long you are running and how hot it - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-14/) - Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. Summer sandal time so we gotta get those toes ready! You all know that my bad habit is biting my nails, but my toes are - [Refresh Your Old for 2013!](https://www.claresmith.me/refresh-your-old-for-2013/) - Ahh yes-It's that time of year for us to evaulate everything we do! A refresh is usually needed for us more times than January 1st, but this is an opportune time to take advantage of a new look! I've created a bit of a self-inventory for us to review today as we enter 2013. Join - [Is it time to renew your workout?](https://www.claresmith.me/is-it-time-to-renew-your-workout/) - Everyone is renewing things in January---our budgets--our health--our schedules--our closets! You name it, something is getting a makeover! Well, is it time to do the same with your exercise routine? I'm talking about 4 easy ways to renew your workout at Roo Mag! Join me! - [An End-of-Day Health Prayer for You](https://www.claresmith.me/an-end-of-day-health-prayer-for-you/) - I've mentioned before that it's hard for me to get blog posts on here, but very easy for me to write Facebook status'. I know that this eliminates many of you since you all don't have Facebook accounts, so the status' that seem to resonate with people, I try to bring over here. Here is - [Product Review: SKINS Compression Tights](https://www.claresmith.me/product-review-skins-compression-tights/) - I get contacted often by companies who want me to review their fitness and health products. One might think that I would jump at the chance to get free product in return for a review, but I don't! So you know that this is something that I think is worth both your time and mine. - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-11/) - Welcome to today’s installment of Rock it. Work it. Love it. Friday! Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. I'm getting the itch to get a new pair of running shoes for summer - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-15/) - I have had a few week hiatus from Rock it. Work it. Love it!!! Good to be back!! Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. Dayspring has really branched out into some - [My Favorite {Fit}tastic & FREE Smartphone Apps!](https://www.claresmith.me/my-favorite-fittastic-free-smartphone-apps/) - I got an iPhone about 3 months ago. Not sure how I managed to wait this long! It does things for me that I didn't even know I needed done! So I thought I'd share with you my 3 favorite fitness apps. I know there are a ton out there and there will always be - [3 Things You Can Learn from My Nutty Bar Binge](https://www.claresmith.me/3-things-you-can-learn-from-my-nutty-bar-binge/) - In an effort for full disclosure (and to confirm that I am indeed, just like you!) I am going to share a personal story that I struggled with last week. The fall themed marketing was hitting me hard at the grocery store and for once, I looked twice at that Little Debbie display. I rarely - [6 Fun and Easy DIY Costumes! {starring, my family!}](https://www.claresmith.me/6-fun-and-easy-diy-costumes-starring-my-family/) - Here's a post that has nothing to do with fitness! (Do I hear shouts of "Hurray!"? LOL!) Over the years, my husband and I have had fun creating unique costumes that we've made on our own. I do not consider myself crafty so if I can do this, so can you! So whether you need - [Practical Ways to Combat Low Self-Image](https://www.claresmith.me/practical-ways-to-combat-low-self-image/) - I think we've all been there. Days. Weeks. Months. Years. It's when low self-esteem comes knocking on our door. It can go in waves for many of us and for others it's more consistent. Either way, it's something we all struggle with. I'm over at Candace Cameron Bure's Roo Magazine talking about 5 practical ways - [The Slide Effect (Product Review)](https://www.claresmith.me/the-slide-effect-product-review/) - Oh I've got another great product review for you! Introducing, "The Slide Effect"! It's sort of like a Total Body Gym/Pilates/TRX system rolled into one! I am a big fan of using resistance cords/bands in workouts and this fitness product puts them together in a unique way! First off, here's what you get when you order one: - [Quest Nutrition Protein Bar (Product Review)](https://www.claresmith.me/quest-nutrition-protein-bar-product-review/) - I had heard about Quest protein bars in my fitness circles for a few months so when they contacted me to review them, I was ecstatic! I am all about finding great products that I can use for myself and recommend to you! I got this mega shipment and it took everything I had to - ["Finding Normal" Movie Premiere Starring Candace Cameron Bure](https://www.claresmith.me/finding-normal-movie-premiere-starring-candace-cameron-bure/) - Who is ready to watch a family friendly movie this weekend? I am! I'm excited to share with you about my friend, Candace Cameron Bure's new movie, "Finding Normal"! It premiers Saturday, May 18th at 7,9, and 11pm EST on GMC (Gospel Music Channel). They will also be showing it on Sunday, May 19th at - [The POWER of a Partner!](https://www.claresmith.me/the-power-of-a-partner/) - Part of my success of being consistent and having fun with my health journey is having a partner! There's no question that I wouldn't be where I am without them! I'm at The Better Mom telling you how my partner got my rear in gear after the birth of my second child, and why I - [An EASY way to get natural, organic, AFFORDABLE food to my door!](https://www.claresmith.me/an-easy-way-to-get-natural-organic-affordable-food-to-my-door/) - Most of us understand the importance of feeding our family healthy food. After all, we are bombarded daily with stats from the latest studies telling us how terrible a previously loved food item is now for us! We hear so much about the importance of eating organic, whole foods, but so many of us really - [10 Tips for your Turkey Day Tummy!](https://www.claresmith.me/10-tips-for-your-turkey-day-tummy/) - Hey all! It's Thanksgiving already! AHH! Many tend to binge on this day and eat everything out of house and home. I'm not here to tell you how and what to eat...eat what you want, but be prepared for the consequences! Here are my tips for eating at big parties and holidays! 1.) Start the - [2014 "Dream it. Do it." Vision Board {Faith}](https://www.claresmith.me/2014-dream-it-do-it-vision-board-faith/) - I know I said it last week, but wow, I'm really surprised with the number of people joining us for the "Dream it. Do it." Vision Boards! I am so glad that this is a source of inspiration in your life for 2014, as it is for mine! Need more info? Introduction Week 1: Health - [It's February 1st! (links, recipe, and more!)](https://www.claresmith.me/its-february-1st-links-recipe-and-more/) - It's February 1st! Can you believe it?! I wanted to share with you a couple of things! 1.) Last year, I did a little series called "FebYOUary". I am not going to be taking us through it this year, but I recommend that you look at it, then consider going through it. I believe that - [Spartan Race Giveaway!](https://www.claresmith.me/spartan-race-giveaway/) - Hey friends! I've got a giveaway for you that I'm super excited about! First off, do you remember my trip to LA to visit Candace Cameron Bure and run the Spartan Race with she, Andrea Barber (Kimmy Gibbler!) and others? Check out some of these fun pics!! It included lots of mud, water, and general discomfort--BUT - [Messy Beautiful Love: Hope and Redemption for Real-Life Marriages](https://www.claresmith.me/messy-beautiful-love-hope-and-redemption-for-real-life-marriages/) - Hi friends! I am SO excited to share with you a book that I found to be inspiring not just because I know the author, but because I couldn't put it down once I started it! "Messy Beauty Love: Hope and Redemption for Real-Life Marriages", is the newest release from New York Times Best-Selling Author, - [John Maxwell, Sugar Cravings, Low-Carb Pizza, and more!](https://www.claresmith.me/john-maxwell-sugar-cravings-low-carb-pizza-and-more/) - Hey! I'm a terrible blogger. There I said it. However, I can kill Facebook and instagram because it's so much easier for me! I want to start sharing more of those things over here for those of you who don't have accounts there or for those of you who didn't see them thanks to FB's - [My recent Target® fall workout wear "style" haul!](https://www.claresmith.me/my-recent-target-fall-workout-wear-style-haul/) - This is sort of a fun post because it involves new workout clothes.....and who doesn't love that?! With the fall season upon us, it's good to take a look at your workout wear--and what better place to do that than at Target®! I got 3 new items that I am just loving and will get a - [My Sabbatical: The why, the how, what I learned & is it for you?](https://www.claresmith.me/my-sabbatical-the-why-the-how-what-i-learned-is-it-for-you/) - Hello friends! Swinging back here with that long-lost art of mine...a blog post! As you can see, I don't blog as it's easier, quicker and typically the preferred method of communication to get my messages across. However, certain posts warrant a bigger space to share and at least to be "housed" so here I am - [FREE At-Home Workouts](https://www.claresmith.me/free-at-home-workouts/) - As we sit here today, March 17th, 2020, we have a lot of unknowns. Access to many of what we would consider necessities are now what we see as luxury. Our stop by the coffee place for a latte. A leisurely stroll at Target. Attending our favorite fitness class. We are all being told to - [The "Take It Back (plus)" Challenge](https://www.claresmith.me/the-take-it-back-plus-challenge/) - It's been a while friends! There are lots of ways that God has been working in my life and in how He wants to use me both online and "offline". My passion and purpose is being refined as I get older and so I hope to reflect that on here. More on all that later. - [PREP-WORK & FAQ's:"Take It Back (plus)" Challenge](https://www.claresmith.me/prep-work-faqstake-it-back-plus-challenge/) - (Click HERE to find out more about the introductory post about the challenge!) It warms my heart when I see you resonate with the heart of my challenges! I can't wait to walk with you all over the next 21 days. I mentioned before that I did not post the info about this challenge as - ["Take It Back" Challenge: Week 1 Relationships](https://www.claresmith.me/take-it-back-challenge-week-1-relationships/) - (See this post and this post to get up to date on the challenge!) Are you ready to "Take it Back" for the next 21 days?! I sure hope so! I mentioned to you in a previous video that I have been taking myself through this process over the past 4-6 weeks and have seen - ["Take It Back" Challenge: Week 2 Body, Soul & Time](https://www.claresmith.me/take-it-back-challenge-week-2-body-soul-time/) - It's time for us to move onto week 2 of the challenge! If you need to catch up on the challenge, check out these 3 posts here! Here are a few highlights as we move ahead. We will keep 5 days a week of walking as part of our goal. You can pick something NEW - [Screentime surge, weight gain, sloppy habits & our malnourished souls](https://www.claresmith.me/screentime-surge-weight-gain-sloppy-habits-our-malnourished-souls/) - We are in the middle of week 2 of the "Take it Back" challenge! Even if you aren't following 100%, there is much to be said for the work you ARE putting into it! If you aren't sure what this challenge is all about, be sure to catch up on the various posts here! Week - ["Take It Back" Challenge: Week 3 Purpose, Mission & Calling](https://www.claresmith.me/take-it-back-challenge-week-3-purpose-mission-calling/) - Here we are in the final week of the take it back challenge! (Catch up on all blog posts here!) I get my "real life" friends asking me often how the challenge is going (which is super sweet of them to take interest in my mission online!) and it's always hard to gauge. I do - [Feeling blah, losing friends & taking it back (Video)](https://www.claresmith.me/feeling-blah-losing-friends-taking-it-back-video/) - We are in week 1 of the "Take it Back plus" challenge! Before we get into the main part of the post I want to share with you 2 projects I've been a part of and are just releasing! Silencing the Noise Mentorship Course: Join my friends Courtney Joseph, Karen Ehman, and Ruth Schwenk as - [Track Your Treats {Free Printable}!](https://www.claresmith.me/track-your-treats-free-printable/) - There's no "New Move Monday" today because I have something very special for you! It's my first FREE printable!! It's pretty self-explanatory but here I am in a short video below explaining. (Click here if you can't see video!) I've also created (page 2) a candy reference guide. I've chosen some of the *hot* Halloween - [New Move Monday:"Criss-Cross Applesauce" Workout](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-mondaycriss-cross-applesauce-workout/) - Yes. You read that right. Each of these moves will mimic a criss-cross. You can also say"criss cross applesauce" on some of them. Sorry. I have small children in the house. These are the things my mind thinks of right now. :) Make sure you view the video of each move first. Then, print off - [The Muffin-Top Makeover](https://www.claresmith.me/the-muffin-top-makeover/) - Muffin-Top. Yikes. We all hate them and I get asked many times how to get rid of them. Remember that no matter how often you do the exercises below, you MUST change your diet! What you eat is the most important thing to getting rid of that muffin-top! Think lean, clean, and green! ** Please - [Re-Vamp Your Elliptical Workout! {FREE Printable}](https://www.claresmith.me/re-vamp-your-elliptical-workout/) - I enjoy using the elliptical machine, but I admit, it can get very boring sometimes. Here is a 25 minute workout that I created that will keep you on your toes and work your WHOLE body! (Right click and save to your phone for quick reference!) - [A 31:17 Arm Workout {FREE Printable}](https://www.claresmith.me/a-3117-arm-workout-free-printable/) - If you are part of a Good Morning Girls group, then you are probably going through the book of Proverbs, chapter 31. This week we come upon verse 17 which says, "She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks." Strong arms? She needs them and so do we! I created - [52:7 Lower Body Workout {FREE Printable}](https://www.claresmith.me/527-lower-body-workout-free-printable/) - Many of you have seen and done my 31:17 Arm Workout, so I thought it was time to match a lower body workout! Proverbs 31:17 tells us that our arms need to be strong for the task. Isaiah 52:7 tells us how beautiful are the feet that bring GOOD NEWS! We need strong legs to - [Recipe: Crispy Chocolate Almond Butter Bites {treat bag printable!}](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-crispy-chocolate-almond-butter-bites-treat-bag-printable/) - Are you a fan of chocolate? I thought so. Coconut oil and almond butter are all the rage so imagine my excitement when I found this recipe! Well--it's not exactly the recipe I found. I made a few modifications to the original. Hope you enjoy! (This would be a great treat for Valentine's Day!) NOTE: - [30 Minute Total Body Treadmill Workout](https://www.claresmith.me/30-minute-total-body-treadmill-workout/) - Hey all! It's my birthday and I wanted to give YOU a present! What says love better than a kick butt workout, right? :) Many of you have emailed me saying that you have a treadmill, but are tired of just running on it. You want to add some pizazz to your current routine but - [5 "Full Body Functional" Exercise for the Mom!!](https://www.claresmith.me/5-full-body-functional-exercise-for-the-mom/) - I hear from many mom who say that they struggle with getting up and down from the floor, carrying in bags of groceries, and having back pain while sitting or standing. This makes it really hard to do the things moms need to do at a very base level. I've created a simple routine to - ["Good Time" Weighted Ab Routine (Video & Printable!)](https://www.claresmith.me/good-time-weighted-ab-routine-video-printable/) - I've had this routine in the back of my mind for a while but just haven't had a chance to tape it for you! Abs are like any other muscle group in the body--we can use weights to add more muscle and get more definition, but they also must be rested. (Giving them at least - [PUMPkin Power: Full Body Workout Using a Pumpkin! + Pumpkin Protein Smoothie Recipe!](https://www.claresmith.me/pumpkin-power-full-body-workout-using-a-pumpkin-pumpkin-protein-smoothie-recipe/) - I was inspired one day while moving our 4 pumpkins around on the porch. I create a workout out of nearly anything, so I thought I'd create a routine that has a festive theme! This workout is for anyone who needs to pop in an exercise, but doesn't have the time to get to the - ["In a Hustle" Holiday Workout and Hoppin' Holiday Workout Playlist!](https://www.claresmith.me/in-a-hustle-holiday-workout-and-hoppin-holiday-workout-playlist/) - I know that this time of year is CRAZY! We have extra parties to attend, shopping to fit in, Christmas cards to address, and volunteering to be done, so one of the first things we tend to leave out is our workout! Many of you are determined to keep this in check thanks to our - [Your 2014 "Dream it. Do it." Board : Slim down & shape up your new year!](https://www.claresmith.me/your-2014-dream-it-do-it-board-slim-down-shape-up-your-new-year/) - (Not a live challenge! Change the year to match which year you are in!) Hey everyone! I took the month of December off of blogging and social media so it's good to be back! January is a time for us to refocus on the new year. I know that for many of you, shaping up - ["Frozen" Flutters Video (Core Focused Pilates Routine) & Bday Giveaway!](https://www.claresmith.me/frozen/) - *** Giveaway Closed!*** Hey all! It's my birthday today and I've made it tradition over the past couple years to gift YOU with a present with either a workout, giveaway, or both! (Here is year 1 birthday post and year 2 birthday post) I had a total other routine in mind, but Friday as I - [Shoulder Workout and Workout Clothes Review (featuring Target® and Popsugar)](https://www.claresmith.me/popsugar-shoulders-and-review/) - There are many fun things about being a fitness blogger and one of those things is doing reviews! So when I had the chance to review some Target® C9 activewear collection, for Popsugar Select, I jumped at it because about 60% of my current workout line includes items from them! Hang on because after I - ["Dream it. Do it." Vision Boards (Info)](https://www.claresmith.me/dream-it-do-it-vision-boards-info/) - Last year (2014), I took some of you through the process of creating a vision board for the year! I decided that I'm not going to do that this year, but I wanted to make this information available to you if you had interest in doing it again! Whether you officially make a vision board - [Recipe: Tuna Casserole (DD Fridays)](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-tuna-casserole-dd-fridays/) - It's Double Delicious Friday! Our family really loves tuna noodle casseroles. Here's a great twist on one! *You need a carrot puree for this! Tuna Casserole Ingredients ♦ Nonstick cooking spray ♦ 2 tablespoons olive oil ♦ 2 ribs celery, chopped ♦ 1/2 large onion, chopped ♦ 2 tablespoons whole-wheat flour ♦ 3 cups nonfat - [My Trip to L.A. To Meet, Run, & Hang with Candace Cameron Bure!](https://www.claresmith.me/my-trip-to-l-a-to-meet-run-hang-with-candace-cameron-bure/) - Unless you've been completely away from my facebook, twitter, instagram, or blog, you know that I had the AWESOME opportunity to visit Candace Cameron Bure last week! I'm sure you are wondering how it all came to be, why I went out, and what we did, so this post is going to answer all your - [Ohio LOVES Candace Cameron Bure!!](https://www.claresmith.me/ohio-loves-candace-cameron-bure/) - If you've been following me at all on my social media accounts, you know that I've spent the past few days with my friend, Candace Cameron Bure! This isn't the first time that we had met and been together face to face as I visited her in LA back in December! She came to town - [Trip to Nashville for K-Love Fan Awards & Fun with Candace Cameron Bure!](https://www.claresmith.me/trip-to-nashville-for-k-love-fan-awards-fun-with-candace-cameron-bure/) - Hi friends! I eluded to this post in my Facebook status this weekend so I'm finally coming through with it! ha! If you follow me on instagram, you got the sneak peek to what happened this weekend, but I'll go ahead and let the rest of you in who don't have instagram. Heehee. And before - [Our trip to Disney World! (& tips to stay healthy while there!)](https://www.claresmith.me/our-trip-to-disney-world-tips-to-stay-healthy-while-there/) - Hi friends!! I am just getting back from a week at Disney World. My kids and I have never been there (my hubby went when he was 10 years old), so I wasn't exactly sure what to expect. Well, I take that back. I had a pretty good idea of what to expect thanks to - [A winner, a webcast, and a weekend re-cap!!](https://www.claresmith.me/a-winner-a-webcast-and-a-weekend-re-cap/) - Hi friends! I've got a loaded post here, so hang on!! First off, if you follow me on instagram or Facebook, you saw that I had the chance to meet and hang out with 2 of the 3 founders of REFIT Revolution! You may have heard me talk about them on a previous Shed & - [ASICS GEL-FIT Sana Shoe Review, workout video & trip re-cap!](https://www.claresmith.me/asics-gel-fit-sana-shoe-review-workout-video-trip-re-cap/) - Hey friends! This will be my last post for a while! (Not that I've been posting a lot here anyway. haha) I've been running at such a fast, hard pace since the fall and I need to break a little bit! Lots of fun things coming for 2015 that I'm praying through and working out, - [What rocked my world in 2014](https://www.claresmith.me/what-rocked-my-world-in-2014/) - I feel like I'm a little behind the ball on this post as many people write posts like this up before December 31st, but I think we can all agree that I'm not one to do things as recommended. Ha! I wanted to share with you some things that rocked my world in 2014! These - [Easter Food Hang-Over Thoughts & a WINNER!](https://www.claresmith.me/easter-food-hang-over-thoughts-a-winner/) - Hey friends! I hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend! My husband and kids were off of school last week so I took some time away from the new site to spend with them, so if you have any emails to me, I'll be getting on those this week! Not that I need a - [A Mama's Guide to a Fit Summer (Part 3: Space)](https://www.claresmith.me/a-mamas-guide-to-a-fit-summer-part-3-space/) - Here we are on the 3rd of 3 posts in this series: "A Mama's Guide to a Fit Summer." If you missed posts 1 and 2 on exercise and healthy eating, be sure to check them out! "Space", both mental and physical, is something hard to come by during the summer! If you are accustomed - [When Obedience To God Includes Running Shoes & Weights {The Better Mom}](https://www.claresmith.me/obedience-god-running-weights/) - Has God ever relentlessly pursued your heart about something? He has for me--and one of those things was this blog, Peak313. Today I'm sharing at The Better Mom the exact moment I *finally* gave into Him. It was that random moment when obedience to God included running shoes and weights. (This post is part of - [A.W. Tozer and worship. Are you strange?](https://www.claresmith.me/a-w-tozer-and-worship-are-you-strange/) - Saw this quote a couple months ago and just can't' shake it! I put it on Facebook last night but want to make sure the rest of you see it. (You can also pin from here if you want!) Are you strange? I am! - [Crisis and Self-Care](https://www.claresmith.me/crisis-and-self-care/) - Prepping healthy food. Doing your workout. Drinking enough water. Eating mindfully. Sleep. In the midst of a life crisis, I know what you are thinking. "These things don't really matter. I've got bigger fish to fry & the last thing I need to worry about is my health." I get it. When your life has - [New Move Monday: 3 Point Punch](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-3-point-punch/) - This is a great full body workout. It's a twist on the typical plank and lat row. ♥♥♥ (Instruction below the picture) Grab a 3 or 5 pound weight. Get on the floor on all fours. Grab your weight and pop up to your toes. Legs are in a wide stance. Arms are wider than - [New Move Monday: Wall Lunge w/Ball (pregnancy)](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-wall-lunge-wball-pregnancy/) - I didn't have a lot of time today to take new pictures so we are pulling back into some old pictures I took a while ago! I took this as part of a group of exercises while I was 8 months pregnant with my 2nd child. Many people aren't sure what they can do while - [New Move Monday: 2 Point Tabletop (pregnancy)](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-2-point-tabletop-pregnancy/) - You can do this exercise, pregnant or not!! This will work your shoulders, core and rear end/legs!! ♥♥♥ Get on all four's. (Do this on a mat or towel if this bothers your knees) Take one light weight (2-5 pounds) in one hand. Lift your arm with weight straight out beside you while extending the - [Birthday Bash Giveaway & New Full Body Video!](https://www.claresmith.me/birthday-bash-giveaway-new-full-body-video/) - **Giveaway CLOSED** It's my birthday and I want to celebrate with you! You can win 1 of 2 prize packages! Package 1: - "Reshaping It All" by Candace Cameron Bure - "The Good Wife's Guide" by Darlene Schacht (paperback!) - A pair of fabulous jeans from "Vault Denim" Package 2: - "Every Body Matters" by Gary - [My real life workout today: 4/23/12](https://www.claresmith.me/my-real-life-workout-today-42312/) - I didn't get a chance to do New Move Monday. You name it, it happened. But that's ok, because I figure that you might have an interest in seeing exactly what I did for my real life workout! I exercise at a college gym and I honestly think the dudes in there think I'm insane. - [New Move Monday: "The Surrender" {video}](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-the-surrender-video/) - I love this exercise for my whole body--upper, lower, core and heart!! I have been working my way up on the weights to where I'm holding 12-15 pounds each hand. I literally die on this and am sore the next day (or two!) Here is a video demonstration of "The Surrender"! (I'm fighting a cold - [New Move Monday: Deadlift w/ Reverse Grip Lat Row](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-deadlift-w-reverse-grip-lat-row/) - I hope the name of this exercise doesn't scare you off! I LOVE deadlifts, especially straight-leg ones! They really tone up the rear end, hamstrings and lower back. I do them with both legs on the floor and even with one leg to really increase the intensity. I put this combination together so I could - [New Move Monday: Tricep Kickback on Ball](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-tricep-kickback-on-ball/) - I'm going back into some old pics I took a few years ago. I was 15 weeks pregnant with my 3 year old daughter if that tells you how far back! This exercise can also be done on a stable surface such as a bench. Adding the exercise ball works your balance and stability though! - [My Real Life Workout Today: 6/18/12](https://www.claresmith.me/my-real-life-workout-today-61812/) - No "New Move Monday" today. Instead I decided to give you another glimpse into my workout routine. I'm not sure if you wonder exactly what I do to exercise or not, but I know that I'm always curious what other people do for theirs! My workouts are different EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Because I love playing - [New Move Monday: Chest-Tricep-Ab Combo on the Ball](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-chest-tricep-ab-combo-on-the-ball/) - I ran into one of my pilates students the other day while working out at the college I teach at. We did some cardio together and the I convinced her to do some strength training with me. She agreed (without me twisting her arm too much!) and while we were exercising she suggested that I - [Real Life Workout](https://www.claresmith.me/my-real-life-workout-today-72012/) - Another real life workout. (Here are two prior ones!) I feel that one way for you to learn how to put together my new moves, is to see how I actually put together a workout! Here is what this week's workout schedule looked like for me: Monday: 15 minutes hill runs/ 35 min Full body Strength - [New Move Monday: Kettlebell Cardio & Balance:Pick up & Put Away](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-kettlebell-cardio-balancepick-up-put-away/) - New Move Monday is back! And today, I debut the kettlebell! Some of you may not have a clue what they are, while others of you have seen them around but just aren't sure what to do with them! I have been playing around with them for a little over a year now and really - [New Move Monday: Weighted Plank Pulls](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-weighted-plank-pulls/) - It's not Monday, but guess what--I've got a new move for you! I've been adding this in my routine over the past 2 months and I LOVE IT! You can do it at the gym or at home! I've added this exercise in my routine in 2 ways: 1.) At the end during an ab - [Clare's Birthday/New Launch Giveaway! (New Video!)](https://www.claresmith.me/clares-birthdaynew-launch-giveaway-new-video/) - So it's a good 10 days PAST my 35th birthday, but hey, we are celebrating my birthday month, right? This blog launch has taken a little longer than I thought, but that's ok. I kept praying for God's timing! (Side note: and if you only knew of the problems that came up just 24 hours - [Weights-Upper Body](https://www.claresmith.me/weights-upper-body/) - *When choosing a weight for dumbbells, choose something which will be challenging as you are at the end of your repetitions. For many women, 3 or 5 pound weights are a great start. Some may be able to advance to 8 or 10 pounds. Rear Press & Lift -(works rear shoulders and triceps) Stand with - [Medicine Ball (Full Body)](https://www.claresmith.me/medicine-ball-full-body/) - If you've seen a medicine ball before, you may have looked at it, then quickly walked away thinking that it must be a piece of equipment for athletes only! Do not fear! These weighted balls are a GREAT addition to your home gym and your workout routine. They come in many varieties--handles, no handles, small, - [New Move Monday: Decline Push-Up](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-decline-push-up/) - It's New Move Monday! I'm not sure if this will be a weekly thing, but it's something new I want to try. Chances are, you'll be outside this summer. :) If you are in the backyard with your kids, there are plenty of exercises you can do while they play. This is an example of - [New Move Monday: Tricep Ext w/Resistance Band](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-tricep-ext-wresistance-band/) - It's New Move Monday and I have an exercise to tighten up the triceps!!! Grab your resistance band---this is a good one!! Do 2-3 sets of 8-12 repetitions. (If you can't view video, click here) - [The "Deskie" Workout {standing}](https://www.claresmith.me/the-deskie-workout-standing/) - Do you spend a lot of time in front of a computer seated? (for all intents and purposes, a "DESKIE") Statistics tell us that adults and children spend over 70% of their day on their bottoms!! I wrote about what media does for our bodies but I'm determined to help you break those downfalls! I've - [The "Deskie" Workout {seated}](https://www.claresmith.me/the-deskie-workout-seated/) - Last week, I presented to you the "Deskie" workout--exercises to do while standing at a computer. This week, I'm going to present to you exercises to do while seated! Don't forget about the special discount Peak313 readers get at Fitness Wholesale! Use code FW15KF at checkout! ♥♥♥ Equipment Needed: - Small pilates ball (or a - [New Move Monday: Plank Shoulder Taps](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-plank-shoulder-taps/) - You can do this exercise pregnant or not, but as you see below, I demonstrated it while pregnant with my second! This is a full body exercise, however you will feel the intensity in the abs and lower back. ♥♥♥ Get on all 4's on the ground. Lift your knees up (or keep them to - [New Move Monday: Sliding "W's"](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-sliding-ws/) - I introduced these gliding disks to you in August when I created the Deskie Workout. These are my current favorite addition to my everyday workout. They challenge my body in ways that I didn't think was possible!! Here is a CHALLENGING exercise for the abs and upper body. REMEMBER: If you don't own the gliding - [5 no equipment, anywhere exercises at The Better Mom!](https://www.claresmith.me/5-no-equipment-anywhere-exercises-at-the-better-mom/) - Today I'm posting at The Better Mom! Find me there to get 5 no equipment, anywhere exercises for busy moms! Here's a sneak peak! - [New Move Monday: Side Plank with a Lift!](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-side-plank-with-a-lift/) - I love planks!! (Just ask my pilates class!) I'm sure many of you have done a side plank before, but here is a twist on it. You can do this outdoors while your children are playing, in your living room near your stairs, or even at the gym on a step! It's a little more - [New Move Monday: Slide Out Slide In](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-slide-out-slide-in/) - This is TOUGH! Your abs and upper body will feel it sisters. I'm telling you, these gliding discs are such a great investment! (You can do this move alongside "Sliding W's"!) Remember, if you don't own these discs, then you can use paper plates! ♥♥♥ (Instruction below picture) Get on your knees and put your - [New Move Monday: Tricep dips with a medicine ball](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-tricep-dips-on-a-medicine-ball/) - There aren't many people who enjoy doing tricep dips. They are difficult, but they are very effective. Here is a twist on the basic tricep dip. Remember, you can take a basic exercise move and add something to it to take it to a whole new level! ♥♥♥ (Instruction below picture) Find a location that - [New Move Monday: Push-Up with a Band](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-push-up-with-a-band/) - I'm just gonna tell you right now. This is hard. It kills me everytime I do it! However it is one THE BEST tricep workouts out there! Work your way up on the reps and don't be ashamed if you can't get a lot done at once! ♥♥♥ (Instruction under the picture) Get on all - [New Move Monday: Upper Body V-Series with Band](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-upper-body-v-series-with-band/) - I'm not exactly sure what happens to me when I get in front of a camera, but I'm all of a sudden....nice?! I do NOT teach like this in front of my class---at least from what my students say! :) This exercise will work the upper body: chest, upper back, shoulders and triceps!! It's easy - [New Move Monday: Cardio Burst Video #1 (Jacks/Climbs/Steps)](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-cardio-burst-video-1-jacksclimbssteps/) - Cardio bursts in a workout are very important to challenging the heart and really making the muscles work harder. I add these into my personal workout a lot and this is a combo that I made up that I use all the time. Seriously. You don't have to do it to music, nor this song, - [New Move Monday: Core Challenging Tricep Extensions](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-core-challenging-tricep-extensions/) - I didn’t have a lot of time today to take new pictures so we are pulling back into some old pictures I took a while ago! I took this as part of a group of exercises while I was 8 months pregnant with my 2nd child. Many people aren’t sure what they can do while - [New Move Monday: Donkey Kicks & Sprints on a Tree (or wall)](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-donkey-kicks-sprints-on-a-tree-or-wall/) - If you don't think I'm crazy already, this might put the nail in the coffin! :) This is a great exercise to add at the end of a run (or even in the middle!) or to any part of an exercise routine. This will work your whole body and the longer you do it, the - [New Move Monday: 1 Year Birthday Workout!](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-1-year-birthday-workout/) - It's been 1 year since I started "New Move Monday"! I'm not sure if you all enjoy reading (and doing!) all the new exercises, but I do enjoy sharing them and inspiring your workouts! In honor of the 1st year birthday, I decided to put together a full body workout with a few " New - [Partner Track Workout](https://www.claresmith.me/partner-track-workout/) - My friend and running partner, Leslie and I did this workout this morning! You can do this with a friend or even your hubby (or older child!!) REPS: Do each strength exercise for 30 seconds (or start in smaller increments and increase as you get stronger!) Do this routine 1 or 2 times through depending - [New Move Monday: "Hip Drop" It Like It's Hot](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-hip-drop-it-like-its-hot/) - I end all of my Pilates classes with a plank series where we do lots of different variations of them. This combination is one of my favorites and is really hard (especially if you do the hip drop!). Add this into your daily workout! REPS: 2-3 sets of 10-12 (You can combine this exercise however - [New Move Monday: BOSU Toe Stack Push-Up Combo](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-bosu-toe-stack-push-up-combo/) - It's time for another "New Move Monday"! (It's been a while!) Many of you have asked about using the BOSU ball. You see these at a lot of gyms, and many people have them in their homes. I love incorporating the BOSU ball to really challenge the core! I was playing around with it one - [My Real Life Workout Today: 4/29/13](https://www.claresmith.me/my-real-life-workout-today-42913/) - Every once in a while I like to post my real life workout on here. (Here are some here, here, and here!) Many of you ask exactly what I do for my routine so it's easier for me to lay it out on a post! (Many times I do put it on instagram so you - [Video: Chest & Triceps Circuit (with band)](https://www.claresmith.me/video-chest-triceps-circuit-with-band/) - Hey there! I often post short 15 second exercise video clips on Facebook and instagram but rarely put them on my blog. I know that some of you don't follow on social media, or you might want to pin the exercise so I am going to try and get them up on the blog more - ["Deck of Cards" Workout](https://www.claresmith.me/deck-of-cards-workout/) - I am always looking for fun, creative ways to spice up my personal and group fitness workouts. Using a deck of cards is a great way to do just that! The awesome thing about this is that you just need a timer, a deck of cards and your body! Of course, feel free to add - [New Move Monday: The Ab Roll](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-the-ab-roll/) - You get a little video demonstration of today's new move!! It's called the "Ab Roll" and I use this in my pilates class. It is very difficult, yet very effective. Remember, if you need to modify, there is no shame in that. I assure you, you'll get stronger in no time!! *Try to think that - [New Move Monday: Seated Leg Lift w/Medicine Ball](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-seated-leg-lift-wmedicine-ball/) - Are you a runner? Try this exercise out! Do 2 sets (1 set works both legs) of as many reps as it takes to feel a burn. This will differ with everyone and how heavy of a ball you use. You can do alternating single lifts, or stay on one leg and complete the set! - [New Move Monday: Style & Shape Your Hair & Body!](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-style-shape-your-hair-body/) - 90 minutes. It's roughly how much time I spend a week doing my hair. I don't wash it every day (gasp!) but when I do, it takes a decent chunk of time to get it dried and styled. The other days don't require as much time, but it all adds up! That's 90 precious minutes - [New Move Monday: Standing Hip & Thigh Toner](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-standing-hip-thigh-toner/) - New Move Monday is BACK!! Here is a 1 minute video of me demonstrating a move to tighten and slim down the hips and obliques. You can do this easily anywhere you have a chair---even if it's not during a regularly scheduled workout! Be sure to keep tall and extend the moving leg straight beside - [New Move Monday: Slide & Glide Abs Combo! {Video}](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-slide-glide-abs-combo-video/) - I told you a while back that I created a new ab routine using the gliding discs. (my newest favorite piece of exercise equipment) I finally got it recorded! If you don't have gliding discs, feel free to use 2 carpet squares or 2 paper plates. Remember to dig the heels into the discs as - [Using Every Day Household Items for a Workout!](https://www.claresmith.me/using-every-day-household-items-for-a-workout/) - We don't always have the money to add to our "home gym" so we have to think out of the box. Luckily there are plenty of household items that many of us have that will double as equipment! I'm posting at The Better Mom today with some ideas on how you can use what you - [4 {fit} Mother's Day Gift Ideas and a 15 min full body workout!](https://www.claresmith.me/4-fit-mothers-day-gift-ideas-and-a-15-min-full-body-workout/) - I am a monthly contributor to a site called The Better Mom. It is such a great resources for all you mamas (and dare I say, those of you who aren't mamas, too!) I posted a 15 minute full body workout on it a few weeks ago and have a new post about Mother's Day - [The Simplicity and Strength of the Sprint (& 5 Ways to Add Them To Your Workout)](https://www.claresmith.me/the-simplicity-and-strength-of-the-sprint-5-ways-to-add-them-to-your-workout/) - If you've been following me for some time, you know that I'm a big proponent of sprinting! I love it because it requires shoes and about 100 meters of empty space. That's it! It's fast and super effective for fat burning! I feel them them all over my body and especially in my ABS the - [Alive: Praise Pumps and Punches (Video)](https://www.claresmith.me/alive-praise-pumps-and-punches-video/) - You guys. Something is up because this is 2 videos in 2 weeks!! It's very hard for me to actually do exercise stuff anymore on the blog (ironic, since I am exercising all the time), but it just takes much more for me to get it done and usually it's the thing that gets shuffled - [WAKE: Turn, drop, and shuffle! (Full Body Video!)](https://www.claresmith.me/wake-full-body-video/) - Well heyyyyyyy!!! I'm about 4 months later than I wanted to be on posting this video. Ooops! There are times when I just chuck a routine if it's taken too long to tape, but not this one! I love it! Many of you love the routine I created to "Alive" and you'll be happy to - [How I Stay Active During The Holidays!](https://www.claresmith.me/how-i-stay-active-during-the-holidays/) - I can't believe I'm using those words--holiday season. Ahh! Where did the summer go? The truth is, in 2 weeks we'll be officially starting the Christmas countdown as we say good-bye to Thanksgiving. There are 2 things that are sure to be around during the next 5 weeks: 1) parties (aka: food overload) 2) crazy - [Planksgiving and Prayer Monthly Challenge : Week 2](https://www.claresmith.me/planksgiving-and-prayer-monthly-challenge-week-2/) - Hey! I'm a little late on getting this up for you guys and almost didn't post it, but I want it here for those of you who would love to do this in the future! So we just completed week 2 of the challenge and now are onto week 3! (If you aren't sure what - [Planksgiving and Prayer Monthly Challenge: Week 1](https://www.claresmith.me/planksgiving-and-prayer-monthly-challenge-week-1/) - First off, if you are part of the "Living and Active" challenge, please make sure you do your final check-in! Here's the link for it! I'll be announcing the winners later this week!! If you follow me on Facebook or instagram, you've seen this daily challenge that I am a part of! My friend Michelle Myers - [Planksgiving and Prayer Monthly Challenge : Week 3](https://www.claresmith.me/planksgiving-and-prayer-monthly-challenge-week-3/) - We just completed Week 3 and are moving on to the last week of the Planksgiving and Prayer Challenge! Here are the 2 weeks prior if you want to catch up! Remember, there is additional insight on each of these posts on my instagram account! If you don't have instagram, you can still access it - [Planksgiving and Prayer Monthly Challenge : Week 4](https://www.claresmith.me/planksgiving-and-prayer-monthly-challenge-week-4/) - I'm a little late getting this final week of Planksgiving and Prayer pictures to you but Thanksgiving and my Hunger-Free Challenge download kind of put me behind! Before I get into the pictures, verses, and prayers, I want to share with you a really fun giveaway giveaway! I'm being featured in Karen Ehman's "12 Days - [My Favorite Winter Workout!](https://www.claresmith.me/my-favorite-winter-workout/) - The winter. *sigh* It's not my favorite season. I know it gives many people a reason to cozy up and lay around, but that's just not in my personality! Don't get me wrong, I love a cozy evening, but generally, winter cramps my style. Maybe it's the Ohio winters, but the snow, ice, and cold - [Putting the "Brakes" on: How I Take Breaks in My Day](https://www.claresmith.me/putting-the-brakes-on-how-i-take-breaks-in-my-day/) - Admittedly, I have a ton of energy. I wasn't named the "Energizer Bunny" by my high school volleyball coach for nothing! My day starts at 5:30am and I go pretty strong until I drop at around 10:30pm. While I definitely accomplish a lot and am pretty intense and focused, there are natural rhythms to my - [A Mama's Guide to a Fit Summer (Part 1: Exercise)](https://www.claresmith.me/a-mamas-guide-to-a-fit-summer-part-1-exercise/) - Well, well, well. Here we are in June. My kids have been out of school since the last week of May so I am definitely in the swing of summer break! There is no doubt that summer comes with mixed emotions--relief from the intense mornings, lunch packing, and homework, yet a bit of frustration trying to - [Where I've been and where I'm going! (& a Boardwalk Workout!)](https://www.claresmith.me/where-ive-been-and-where-im-going-a-boardwalk-workout/) - August! Like whoa! When did it arrive? I've had a pretty busy summer, just like many of you! My husband is a high school guidance counselor which means he's been off for the month of July, so my house is packed and busy all day every day with my kids and him! I sort of - [{Shed & Share} Kara O.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-kara-o/) - YOU GUYS. I went back to my "Shed & Share" archives and do you know when the last one was? Last October--as in, almost 1 year ago?!?! WHAT?? I have slacked big time in this area! With the blog re-brand and a whole bunch of other things on my plate, I have out my favorite - [How I keep track of my movement during the day!](https://www.claresmith.me/how-i-keep-track-of-my-movement-during-the-day/) - There is no question that I am a busy bee. I am so active not just with teaching group fitness classes and my daily exercise, but just being a busy mama! I've always been curious as to how many steps I actually get in a day but have never purchased an activity tracker to do - [A mid-summer update, full-body circuit & survey winners!](https://www.claresmith.me/a-mid-summer-update-full-body-circuit-survey-winners/) - Happy summer, friends! I sure hope it's going well for you. We are halfway through July which means it is FLYING by! Do you feel the same way? It's been a busy month for us and I wanted to give you a little peek into it! I spent the last week of June in Florida - [How I exercised with a soft cast and a NEW lower-body routine!](https://www.claresmith.me/how-i-exercised-with-a-soft-cast-and-a-new-lower-body-routine/) - If you've been following me on social media at all, you may have seen that I had a small surgery on my wrist thanks to a ganglion cyst. I was in a soft cast/splint for 2 weeks which meant I had to make some adjustments to my typical workout routine. My plan has been this: - [My favorite exercise program and a teaser for something coming soon!!](https://www.claresmith.me/my-favorite-exercise-program-and-a-teaser-for-something-coming-soon/) - I am a workout snob. Maybe it's because I'm a fitness instructor, or just prefer my own workouts I create, but it takes a lot for me to really get behind a fitness program. HOWEVER---there is *one program and instructor who changed my mind. I wrote about my fav fitness instructor, Michelle Dozois, years ago - [My Health Goals for 2017](https://www.claresmith.me/my-health-goals-for-2017/) - 2017 is here! We may be a couple weeks into January and some of you well on your way with new resolutions or goals for the year, but there may be some of you who are still trying to wade through the craziness of the holidays. I think we all tend to do a bit - [Your Holiday Health Plan (& a quick workout!)](https://www.claresmith.me/your-holiday-health-plan-a-quick-workout/) - I was looking at the calendar this morning totally surprised at the date. When did it advance this far into December?! I am totally behind on shopping but I figure it will all get done, right? (If you are in need of some Christmas inspiration, check out my Christmas shopping guide filled with a few - [How I get myself motivated and a current playlist](https://www.claresmith.me/how-i-get-myself-motivated-and-a-current-playlist/) - Monday morning I woke up to workout...and went back to bed. I had my clothes out and everything, actually got out of bed, stared at them, then went back to bed! I ended up making my way to the gym, but shared with you via instagram stories what I was thinking and wanted to post - ["Build A Home Gym" at The Better Mom today...](https://www.claresmith.me/build-a-home-gym-at-the-better-mom-today/) - Christmas is around the corner and that means people are starting to ask you what you want for Christmas! (At least, I hope they are!) There's no better time to get the items needed for your perfect home gym! I'm guest posting today at The Better Mom and giving you my recommendations for one! - [Turkey Day Tips and a Video](https://www.claresmith.me/turkey-day-tips-and-a-video/) - I considered not even writing a post about tips for Thanksgiving. After all, it comes just once a year, right? Who wants to have restraint on a day when the food is bountiful and delicious?! However, there are some of you who want all the tips you can get and so for you, I write - [My Favorite Post Work-Out Snacks](https://www.claresmith.me/my-favorite-post-work-out-snacks/) - I have had many people ask me what I recommend for post- workout snacks. So many of you are exercising and really want to fuel your body after working it so hard. Today, I'm at The Better Mom talking about what I like to eat after I exercise. Please join me and share, what do you - [Clare’s Fav GET MOVING Tips!](https://www.claresmith.me/clares-fav-get-moving-tips/) - I'm working on getting more practical workouts for you---both ones you can watch on video and ones you can print off. Until then, take a look at some of my practical GET MOVING tips!! (FYI--I've used 6 of these tips already this week, and it's just Wednesday!) 1.) Never go longer than 3 days without - [A trip to the grocery store!!](https://www.claresmith.me/a-trip-to-the-grocery-store/) - As you can imagine with 2 kids, it's crazy going to the grocery store! I go with my grocery list, coupons and lots of snacks in hand! I move pretty quickly because at any minute, the good behavior could fizzle. (and it usually does, but with my 20 month old, not my 4 year old) - [Clare's Fav HEALTHY EATING Tips!!!](https://www.claresmith.me/clares-fav-healthy-eating-tips/) - I posted my favorite GET MOVING tips here, so now it's time for my favorite HEALTHY EATING tips! 1.) Wear tighter pants. Some of you may say, "hold on...that's me every day!" but I'm sure you've adjusted your pants to your actual size. When I need to, shall we say, lighten up a little in - [30 minutes](https://www.claresmith.me/30-minutes/) - I can do a lot in 30 minutes. ♦ I can vacuum my whole house. ♦ I can watch my favorite tv show. ♦ I can run nearly 4 miles. ♦ I can read through facebook, twitter and many blogs! But there's something that can have a lasting affect on my family: ♦ I can - [Do you have a plan?](https://www.claresmith.me/do-you-have-a-plan/) - I am being featured over on Reshaping It All today! "Failing to plan is planning to fail." Have you heard that phrase before? In chapter 4 of "Reshaping it All" Candace Cameron Bure and Darlene Schacht discuss this in detail. Click here to see me talk about time in my life when I needed a - [Tips for staying in shape on vacation](https://www.claresmith.me/how-to-keep-in-shape-on-vacation/) - It's June and that means it's VACATION season!!! I get a lot of questions about exercising and travel so I thought I'd write a blog post about it. I actually LOVE exercising while traveling. My husband and I went on a cruise a few years ago and it was so awesome to do my workouts - [Introducing: {Shed & Share Wednesdays!}](https://www.claresmith.me/introducing-shed-share-wednesdays/) - I want to let you in on a little secret. You inspire me. Over the past 9 months of blogging, I've heard from many of you about your weight loss journey. Your stories are amazing and it would be a crime if I was the only one who got to hear about them. So here's - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Jinka B.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-jinka-b/) - Today's Shed & Share Story is special! I am real life friends with the "sharer", Jinka! I met her about 3 years ago and we became fast friends! We both share a love of fitness, good food, encouraging women and our love for the Lord! (She even attends my fitness classes!) We have a great - [How to set personal fitness goals](https://www.claresmith.me/how-to-set-personal-fitness-goals/) - Kelli, at "More Bang for your Bucks", is in the middle of a challenge: "I need to move it move it!" Today, I'm over there talking about how to set personal fitness goals. I know many of you are going to be thinking about this as January is approaching. Get a headstart on it today! - [Last minute gifts for the fitness lover in your life!](https://www.claresmith.me/last-minute-gifts-for-the-fitness-lover-in-your-life/) - First off, I am NOT getting paid to endorse any of these products or compensated in any way. I either have found them personally to be awesome, or have heard they rock! :) These are fast, easy to find gifts or they are unique and *new*! Oh--you like what you see? Be sure to send - [{31.3 Jump} Week 2](https://www.claresmith.me/31-3-jump-week-2/) - Hey!! I am thrilled with the response I got last week from you guys! So glad you are on this journey with me! 1.) Have you detailed out your specific goals for 31.3 Jump? Be sure to join others on the message board with that info! 2.) It's time for our FIRST CHECK-IN! This is - [4 "Out of the Box" Ways to Get in Your Workout!](https://www.claresmith.me/4-out-of-the-box-ways-to-get-in-your-workout/) - I understand. I'm in the same boat. There are days when I try everything under the sun to get my exercise done. I have to really get creative sometimes but I've found that the creativity and effort pays off! These are all methods I've used before to get that workout done. Come find out what - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Candace Cameron Bure](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-candace-cameron-bure/) - It's time for another Shed & Share story! Today we have someone who I'm sure you know...Candace Cameron Bure! We have been working together now for the past 5 months since the start of her online magazine, RooMag (I am one of the senior co-editors there) and she has been so awesome! I asked her - [Recipe: Salsa Eggs To Go](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-salsa-eggs-to-go/) - A key to keeping your calories in check, fueling your body for energy, and saving money on drive thru foods is to be prepared with healthy snacks when you are on the go! One of my favorite snacks are hard-boiled eggs. I take about 30 minutes to prepare this (and many other things) for the - [My Favorite Grab & Go Foods](https://www.claresmith.me/my-favorite-grab-go-foods/) - I have written before about how taking 30 minutes at the beginning of your week can save you time, money and pounds throughout the week. But there are some of you who either: a.) Don't have the time to take to prepare fresh foods and snacks, or b.) Have zero interest in doing it. So - [Backyard BBQ Eating Tips](https://www.claresmith.me/backyard-bbq-eating-tips/) - Going to a cookout or party every time you turn around? Welcome to summer! I love how the warm weather brings out friends and fellowship, but it also brings out FOOD! This is great but for someone who is trying to make a dent in their weight or trying to keep it in check, it - [What To Do When Your Training Comes To A Stand Still](https://www.claresmith.me/what-to-do-when-your-training-comes-to-a-stand-still/) - It happens to the best of us. You are going full steam ahead with your training. You are right on track with your eating. Then it happens. No motivation No results Roadblock after roadblock I've been there multiple times in my life. I've seen it happen to others just as many! Here's some ways to - ["At Home Mama" Munchies...Do you have them?](https://www.claresmith.me/at-home-mama-munchies-do-you-have-them/) - When I left the corporate world almost 6 years ago to stay at home with my son, I encountered something that I didn't put on my "pros and cons" list...the munchies!! I didn't realize that I would have access to food 24/7 and I didn't realize that I would WANT to access that food 24/7 - [Finding your Moderation Rx: Why my moderation won't look like your moderation.](https://www.claresmith.me/finding-your-moderation-rx-why-my-moderation-wont-look-like-your-moderation/) - "Everything in moderation" It's a phrase that we hear often and that many fitness folks throw around. But what exactly is moderation? Should we all have the same kind of moderation? What's allowed and what isn't? ♥♥♥ A few weeks ago, I was circling the snack table at my Tuesday morning Bible study. There are - [Getting those "Abs in the kitchen" WAY more fun!](https://www.claresmith.me/getting-those-abs-in-the-kitchen-way-more-fun/) - Let's face it. What we put in our mouths all day long, affects our bodies more than what we do at the gym or basement for 60 minutes. Eating is the hardest thing for people to get in control in regards to health and there are many factors that play into that. Many of you, - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Beth S.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-beth-s/) - We've hit our 20th Shed & Share story! Holla! I am so thankful for every single one of you who've shared your story. I love that there are all ages and different phases of life in them. Today, we are going to meet Beth. I am so thrilled that she decided to open up because - [15 Easy Meal & Snack Weekly Prep Ideas...Suggested by YOU!!](https://www.claresmith.me/15-easy-meal-snack-weekly-prep-ideas-suggested-by-you/) - A couple months ago I asked on my Facebook page..... Of course you all came through with flying colors! I loved your ideas and wanted to get them down on a post so everyone can benefit!! I am going to write a post later about meal planning 101 and some things to consider, but for - [Back-To-School Health Tips and a Back-To-School Giveaway for You!](https://www.claresmith.me/back-to-school-health-tips-and-a-back-to-school-giveaway-for-you/) - Is your household back to school yet? Mine will be later this week! This summer flew by--the fastest on record it feels--and we are already gearing up for the fall! This period of transition can be hard in many ways, so I want you to remember to give yourselves that permission to transition, but sometimes - [How I use my SMARTphone to stay FIT (& a FREE hassle-free holiday resource!)](https://www.claresmith.me/how-i-use-my-smartphone-to-stay-fit-a-free-hassle-free-holiday-resource/) - I LOVE my smartphone. I was late to the game in getting one, but I have been pleased with all the ways it's helped me out! One of those areas, of course, is in my health! Accountability (yup, I need it), inspiration, food journaling...the list goes on and on. Check out my post on The - [What I Did To Get Out Of A Winter Workout Rut!](https://www.claresmith.me/what-i-did-to-get-out-of-a-winter-workout-rut/) - Maybe you don't have the same struggle that I do, but the winter really does a doozy on me physically (and mentally!) Ohio weather hasn't been very kind to us, so come March, I am usually ready to buckle down and get back on track! Join me at The Better Mom as I share what - [A Mama's Guide to a Fit Summer (Part 2: Eating)](https://www.claresmith.me/a-mamas-guide-to-a-fit-summer-part-2-eating/) - Here we are in part 2 of "A Mama's Guide to a Fit Summer!" Be sure to check out part 1: exercise! Healthy eating. It's hard enough to do during the year amongst the craziness of the day, but throw in the summer and it takes another twist! Some of you may find healthy eating - [How "grazing" got me in trouble](https://www.claresmith.me/how-grazing-got-me-in-trouble/) - (Let me start off by saying that if eating how I describe below ("grazing") works for you, then by all means, keep doing it! There is no one right answer!) I'm not exactly sure when the term became really popular, but "grazing" has made it's way into a regular discussion about how we eat. I - [Running the Race {part1}](https://www.claresmith.me/running-the-race-part-1/) - Do you know how there are some things in your life that are defining moments? I’ve just shared with you a timeline of an event in life that was one of those. - [Why me? Why now?](https://www.claresmith.me/why-me-why-now/) - I'm sure there are plenty of you out there who want to know why I have any business writing a fitness blog. Others may wonder why now? What triggered you? After all: I am a fitness instructor who eats candy and skips a workout I am a friend who gets jealous and doesn't always want - [Thirsty?](https://www.claresmith.me/thirsty/) - July 5th: The sweat was pouring off my head. My mouth was parched. My face was beat red. I was weak. I had just finished my first competitive race of the summer.It was a muggy, hot summer day and I was beat. It was only 5 miles, but it could have been 25. At that - [A Clean Slate](https://www.claresmith.me/a-clean-slate/) - What do you think it is that makes New Years Resolutions so enticing? What if we had May 18th resolutions? For some reason I don’t think half the people would be so anxious to have them! There’s something about being at the beginning of the year that make them what they are! It reminds me - [What 36 hours without power taught me](https://www.claresmith.me/what-36-hours-without-power-taught-me/) - We lost power during an icy storm that overtook much of Northeast Ohio. Now losing power in and of itself is horrible, however do it with 2 small kids and it takes on a whole new dimension. We went to 3 different houses the first day it hit and spent the night at a friend's - [Hidden](https://www.claresmith.me/hidden/) - Nothing screams "I need to workout" like that day in mid-April when the temps reach capri and tank top weather. Maybe you were able to slide by in the winter without much care to the intricate details of the arms and shoulders, but yikes. Expose them a bit and all of a sudden you are - ["Reshaping it all" Book Review and 3 GIVEAWAYS!!!](https://www.claresmith.me/reshaping-it-all-book-review-and-3-giveaways/) - >> Today is a very exciting day because it's Peak313's very first GIVEAWAY!!! I also get a chance to review a book that JUST hit the New York Times Best-Seller list that essentially sums up everything I believe about your physical health and the role it - [A Giveaway PREVIEW!!!](https://www.claresmith.me/a-giveaway-preview/) - > Giveaway Open Now! Next Tuesday, March 1st, Peak313 will have it's first giveaway! Woot! I have 3 copies of Candace Cameron Bure's new book "Reshaping it all: Motivation for Physical and Spiritual Fitness" (I also will be reviewing it) Until then, here's the promo of the book. - [Injured](https://www.claresmith.me/injured/) - Been there? I have a recurring injury all the way from high school. I was leaving a volleyball game in a hurry to get to my boyfriend's soccer game. I slipped on a door mat and jammed my neck into the divider between two doors. It hurt for days until I decided to go see - [You are more](https://www.claresmith.me/you-are-more/) - Today I'm talking to a lot of people. ...to someone who just soothed her pain with a bag of chips and bottle of Coke.....again ...to someone who purged what she just ate in the toilet....again ...to someone who soothed her empty soul with a stranger last night....again ...to someone who has given up on her - [Good Form Gone Bad](https://www.claresmith.me/good-form-gone-bad/) - You're 35 minutes into the workout. It's hot. You're sweaty. Those things called muscles feel awfully weak and your heart is about to jump out of your chest. Your perky instructor is telling you you only have 25 minutes left and all you want to do is sit down, or should I say... collapse? If - [You've Been Warned](https://www.claresmith.me/youve-been-warned/) - It's sunny. You've got your shades on. Sipping on your favorite beverage. The music is jamming and you are cruising down the highway. All of a sudden you see it. A police car. Stopped in the middle of the highway. I always break immediately (whether I was speeding or not), check out the rearview mirror - [65 Days to...Reshaping It ALL](https://www.claresmith.me/65-days-to-reshaping-it-all/) - The "Try It" Challenge is over, but guess what? I've found something else for you to be involved in! Remember my book review and giveaway back in March? Well, if you haven't had a chance to check out the book, then now is your time! Check out the video below! Be sure to check www.reshapingitall.com - [Entitlement](https://www.claresmith.me/entitlement/) - Entitlement: belief that one is deserving of or entitled to certain privileges (Merriam-Webster Dictionary) Who here has felt a sense of entitlement before? *hand raised* Let me tell you a few things that I've felt entitled to. You let me know if any of these sound familiar. ♦ "I have worked hard today, I deserve - [Can there be a more beautiful you?](https://www.claresmith.me/can-there-be-a-more-beautiful-you/) - Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What happens when you are the beholder--- of yourself? Do you struggle with calling yourself beautiful? You aren't alone. Many women struggle with their self-esteem. You are down on yourself because of your weight gain, gray hairs, or wrinkly face. Maybe someone in your past has brought - [Self-Discipline](https://www.claresmith.me/self-discipline/) - I am being featured on Reshaping It All today!! "Self-discipline is an exercise that strengthens us over time when we continue to implement it. It puts our spirit in control of our flesh and keeps putting it there until the flesh learns to follow." Reshaping It All pg. 102 Do you believe that? Do you - [What a Mud Run Taught Me About Life](https://www.claresmith.me/mud-run-life/) - This weekend I did a little race called the Warrior Dash. I went with my 2 girlfriends, Jinka and Beth and we had a BLAST! We made it a small girls weekend which made the experience even sweeter! If you've never heard of a Warrior Dash, it's a 3.1 mile obstacle course. We started out - [Did you get back up?](https://www.claresmith.me/did-you-get-back-up/) - Watch this. (Keep your eye on the runner who starts out in 2nd place) Did you see what happened? Heather Dorniden was in 1st place and on her last lap, she tripped and fell. She had to basically re-run that race in one lap. But the race didn't end there. She picked herself up and - [The Marriage of Idleness and Temptation](https://www.claresmith.me/the-marriage-of-idleness-and-temptation/) - If you've ever been to church, then I'm sure you've heard the story about King David and Bathsheba. There's an important lesson for us, but one you might not expect. First, let's back track and tell a quick recap of the story. "In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David - [3 Ways To Upgrade Your Health](https://www.claresmith.me/upgrade-your-health/) - (This is what I was inspired with during church last week!) In my ABF (adult Bible fellowship, aka: Sunday School for Adults), our teacher was talking about "upgrading" our faith. What I love about our physical life is that there are so many parallels from which we can draw with our spiritual life (and vice - [I'm posting at "The Better Mom"!](https://www.claresmith.me/im-posting-at-the-better-mom/) - There's a new website that started up this month called "The Better Mom." I'm going to be a contributing writer to the site and it's certainly not because I THINK I'm a "better mom"! It's because I'm in the process to becoming a "better mom"! There's a great group of women contributing to the site, - [A pizza fast with an eternal & external impact](https://www.claresmith.me/a-pizza-fast-with-an-eternal-external-impact/) - The alarm goes off. Your feet hit the floor. You grab your coffee mug and Bible. You sit down to absorb what God's living, breathing Word has for you and you see this. 「 神 爱 世 人 ， 甚 至 将 他 的 独 生 子 赐 给 他 们 ， 叫 一 切 - [Your New Normal](https://www.claresmith.me/your-new-normal/) - I may be young, but I'm not stupid. I realize that some of you are fighting an upstream battle. You are breaking old habits and making new ones. You are fighting the stereotypes that have been with you for years. This whole "health kick" has put a little kink in your normal life and quite - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Nikki T.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-nikki-t/) - I am so excited about this new series, "Shed & Share Wednesdays"! You will be so motivated while reading these stories of these unbelievable women!! Let's get to it. Meet Nikki T! ♥♥♥ {The Basics} Name: Nikki T Age: 33 Profession: I am a minister’s wife and have awesome opportunities to minister to women and - [Relevant '11: Real. Intentional. Blogging](https://www.claresmith.me/relevant-11-real-intentional-blogging/) - I just returned from a 4 day trip to the Relevant conference. Those 3 words in the title: Real. Intentional. Blogging....explains exactly what it was and more. I am so glad that things worked out for me to go. (I got a ticket 8 weeks before the conference) I've been telling everyone that this conference - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Clara B.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-clara-b/) - It's Shed & Share Wednesday! I have gotten to know Clara a little bit online and she encourages me so much. She is a hard worker and is determined to take control of her health. Check out her story. It is amazing!!! ♥♥♥ {The Basics} Name: Clara B Age: 32 Profession: Director of Human Resources - ["But what about the water bottle?"](https://www.claresmith.me/but-what-about-the-water-bottle/) - It was late Wednesday night. We just arrived to the Relevant conference. 7 hours of travel. We were excited, nervous, and tired! We were sitting around a table and I figured it was a perfect time for a photo op. So I set up my camera and self-timer, gathered everyone around and hit the button. - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Kris. C](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-kris-c/) - It's Shed & Share Wednesday! I had the chance to actually meet Kris live and in person while I was at Relevant! So good to see "face to face" one of the Shed & Share success stories! (She looked awesome!) ♥♥♥ {The Basics} Name: Kris C Age: 33 Profession: Stay at Home Mom, Homeschooler, Blogger, - [The Stocking That Was Never Hung](https://www.claresmith.me/the-stocking-that-was-never-hung/) - There it was. I saw the white fluffy top peaking out from behind the Christmas boxes and a bunch of tangled lights. I pulled out the tiny, white stocking and tears came to my eyes. I shouldn't be surprised by this as every year when it comes time to pull out the Christmas decorations it - [My Christmas Wish For You](https://www.claresmith.me/my-christmas-wish-for-you/) - I wish I could tell you that eating cookies, candy and chips would have no affect on our bodies. But they do. I wish I could tell you that not moving our bodies and challenging our muscles would have no bearing on the scale. But it does. I wish that I could tell you that - [When the problem really isn't the problem](https://www.claresmith.me/when-the-problem-really-isnt-the-problem/) - You know what I mean. → It's when you minimize a co-workers accomplishments because you are really just jealous of them. → It's when you roll your eyes at how someone tends to their house perfectly when really you are disappointed in how you tend yours. → It's when you yell at your kids for - [Energize 2012 with {31.3 Jump}](https://www.claresmith.me/31-3-jump-your-guide-to-a-healthier-you-in-2012/) - Welcome to 2012! I am excited to share with you something I've been thinking about for months! I have had so many ideas and options floating around in my head. You name it, I've thought of it and it has really been difficult to pin down what exactly I wanted to provide for you all. I - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Zinnada H](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-zinnada-h/) - I couldn't think of a better way to end our {31.3 Jump} than with a real life story. If you are new to "Shed & Share Wednesdays" be sure to check out our other stories! Meet Zinnada H! ♥♥♥ {The Basics} Name: Zinnada H. Age: 35 Profession: Homemaker How long have you been on this - [Exercise, Quiet Times, Prayer: Oh My!](https://www.claresmith.me/exercise-quiet-times-prayer-oh-my/) - If your morning is anything like mine, you've got quite a bit going on. I have always been wired for the mornings. Of course there are those days when I don't get enough sleep (ahem, the past 2 years) or I just want to stay snuggled up in bed, but for the most part, I'm - [My Most Powerful Diet Weapon](https://www.claresmith.me/my-most-powerful-diet-weapon/) - It's not a pill. It's not a smoothie. It's not an ab exercise. It's vibrant, alive & at your fingertips. It's the living, breathing, inspired Word of God. Every answer I need in regards to weight loss and healthy living is here! ♥♥♥ Self-control: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, - [When Realization Meets Inspiration](https://www.claresmith.me/when-realization-meets-inspiration/) - ♦ I'm going to run a 5K! ♦ No more sweets for me! ♦ Our new budget is going to give us financial freedom! ♦ I've got a new attitude on our failing marriage! We all get inspired. Sometimes we do something to prove something to ourselves. Other times it's to prove something to others. Maybe our inspiration comes - [Are you asking the wrong question?](https://www.claresmith.me/are-you-asking-the-wrong-question/) - Are you wondering why you are feeling guilt ridden? Wondering why you aren't getting the answers you need? Feeling trapped by some decisions in your life? Having problems losing weight? Have you considered that you have been asking the wrong question? There are some instances where the question is very direct and clear. There are - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Tonya](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-tonya/) - Woo hoo! It's another "Shed & Share" story!! Meet Tonya! ♥♥♥ The Basics: - Age: 37 - Profession: Homemaker/SAHM - How long have you been on this weight loss journey? Approx. 2.5 years (pregnant time included) - Weight Loss/Inches Lost: (Post Baby) 40 lbs./ 4.5 inches (waist) - Blog/Facebook Page (if you have one): www.amrsamom.blogspot.com - [Kanye, Kelly, Mandisa, & 2 Corinthians](https://www.claresmith.me/kanye-kelly-mandisa-2-corinthians/) - Shirts. Music. Jewelry. Exercise. We get messages about our life in many ways. I find it interesting that people--Christian or not---are making statements to inspire, uplift and keep people going. One day I was exercising to Kelly Clarkson's song, "Stronger" when the thought occurred to me that I have 3 songs on my iPod, alone, - [Overwhelmed, filled with sorrow and in good company](https://www.claresmith.me/overwhelmed-filled-with-sorrow-and-in-good-company/) - I absolutely love Easter. If it weren't for Jesus' death and resurrection, then my life would be meaningless, lifeless and heading to a dead end. BUT---He is RISEN!! And for that, I live my life as a love song to Him! Here are some thoughts I had while reading through the Easter story this week. - [How comparison stole my joy this month](https://www.claresmith.me/how-comparison-stole-my-joy-this-month/) - You saw how I "kicked it up a notch" in April, but you haven't heard yet how I struggled this month. I consider myself pretty honest, open person. I don't expect to be any different on this blog, so here I am. Full disclosure. ♥♥♥ Being part of the fitness industry requires me to stay - [Welcome to "Life"](https://www.claresmith.me/welcome-to-life/) - "I was doing so good, then my kids got sick." "I was down 10 pounds, then went on vacation and gained 6 back." "I didn't miss a workout for the longest time, but lately, I just can't get motivated again." "I was getting ready to get a new plan and found out I was pregnant....again!" - [Craving Conquerers {Guest Post by Candace Cameron Bure}](https://www.claresmith.me/craving-conquerers-guest-post-by-candace-cameron-bure/) - We have a very special guest today talking about our Key for Week 3 of the "Living and Active" challenge: craving conquerers! Candace Cameron Bure's biography is filled with many many accomplishments, fame and excitement, but the awesome thing about her is that she goes much deeper than all of those. I've had the chance to - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Jessica S.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-jessica-s/) - It's time for another Shed & Share! Meet Jessica--a determined young gal with an awesome, inspiring story! {The Basics} Age: 30 Profession: 5th grade Language Arts teacher How long have you been on this weight loss journey? 14 months Weight Loss/Inches: 55 pounds, 19.75" Blog/Facebook Page: Get Busy Living - http://www.getbusyliving.org {Your Story} What was your "low - [Easter, Social Media, and Hot Button Topics](https://www.claresmith.me/easter-social-media-and-hot-button-topics/) - I wrote this Tuesday night after processing it for about 6 hours during the day. My heart has been very grieved over the past week for various issues that have appeared on social media and the reaction by many Christians. (I am careful not to expect a certain type of behavior from those who don't - ["Eat Right. Exercise Daily. Die Anyway": Why I Do What I Do.](https://www.claresmith.me/eat-right-exercise-daily-die-anyway-why-i-do-what-i-do/) - Have you seen this phrase floating around? I chuckle every time I see it because it kind of makes folks like me in the fitness world spin their heads a bit. I mean, honestly. Why are we spending all this time on our bodies if we are going to die anyway? Well, the point of - [Giving our marriage "a hug": Our "Weekend To Remember" experience](https://www.claresmith.me/giving-our-marriage-a-hug-our-weekend-to-remember-experience/) - If you follow me on instagram or facebook, you saw that my husband and I attended one of Family Life's "Weekend to Remember" conferences a couple weekends ago. I wasn't going to blog about it, but decided that I would because I'm trying to give you all a better peek into my real life. (It's - [Stop Feeding the Beast](https://www.claresmith.me/stop-feeding-the-beast/) - "Clare, this company will take everything out of you. The more you feed it, the more it wants. You have to figure out YOUR limits and stop feeding the beast." It was a conversation I had with a co-worker years ago when I was working in corporate America. I was in a department that had - [What a month of "fog" has taught me](https://www.claresmith.me/what-a-month-of-fog-has-taught-me/) - A fog. That's the best way I can describe it. The past 4 weeks have had me in a bit of a fog...and feeling a little suffocated. I'm not sure if you've ever been in a spot like that before, but I thought I'd share with you my experience. There were a few things - [Looking at Healthy Stewardship Through a "Tithing" Lens](https://www.claresmith.me/looking-at-healthy-stewardship-through-a-tithing-lens/) - Conversation #1: Our unchurched neighbor sat down on our couch as he was perplexed over our conversation, "Well my sister's church asks that they give 10% of their money to them. My sister DOES THAT. That's crazy!" Conversation #2: "Man. They have some nice cars. How do they get that money?!" I looked at my husband and - [A different kind of "Power Couple"](https://www.claresmith.me/a-different-kind-of-power-couple/) - The other night while my daughter was up sick with the stomach flu, this post ran through my mind. I know, I know. I'm not sure how and why thoughts are always processing but they are! While I was tending to my daughter, my husband, Kory, got up. He got extra sheets and towels and - [Burden lifters or burden adders?](https://www.claresmith.me/burden-lifters-or-burden-adders/) - Coming back from a couple week break on the blog, (not on Facebook, twitter, or instagram, though!) to share with you a quick quote that I heard a while back that is coinciding with the Good Morning Girls study that I'm in now. This week we are talking about intentionality with our children and each - [The Word & Work-Out: 4 week accountability ( "Why Easter Matters")](https://www.claresmith.me/the-word-work-out-4-week-accountability-why-easter-matters/) - My relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ is of utmost of importance, and following His Word and His commands are what I seek to do every day. It's from here that the rest of my day flows. If my foundation is unstable and insecure, so is everything else. Think of it like a tree--a firm - [I Choose Him](https://www.claresmith.me/i-choose-him/) - Hi friends! In case you didn't catch it on Facebook, I've been away for the past week at Disney World! I'm home, but am still getting caught up on some things so I've invited my friend Lindsay to post today! I'll be back later this week to blogging!! ♥♥♥ Being a 23 year old girl, - [The Word and Work-Out: Week 1 Check-In (Why Easter Matters)](https://www.claresmith.me/the-word-and-work-out-week-1-check-in-why-easter-matters/) - Loved the response received from the "Word and Work-Out: 4 Week Accountability" using "Why Easter Matters" from the Good Morning Girls website. Remember, this challenge isn't like my usual ones, ending with a grand prize and with many requirements. However, this challenge should be self-motivating, as we are pressing further into our faith at one - [Train Your Thoughts (And an object lesson for the kids!)](https://www.claresmith.me/train-your-thoughts/) - Our thoughts affect our health MUCH more than you think. It's why most of my time spent on this blog is rarely giving you advice on what exercise to do or what you should eat, but rather how you can re-train your mind, heal your heart, and find rest in your soul! Here is where - [Renovated but not restored: the trick to the transformation](https://www.claresmith.me/renovated-but-not-restored-the-trick-to-the-transformation/) - My husband is a huge DIY'er. He has major talent in both creating things from scratch and up-cycling objects that I thought were dead and gone! He watches HGTV quite often and the other day, I heard a gal on a show say this, "I not only renovate old houses, but restore them." As my - [The Word and Work-Out: Week 3 Check-In (Why Easter Matters)](https://www.claresmith.me/the-word-and-work-out-week-3-check-in-why-easter-matters/) - Hi friends! I am so proud of you for hanging in there! Remember, we aren't going for perfection, but PROGRESS so take heart if you had a rough week! The grace of God is there for us to take in, which then propels us to a more intense fervency to do everything we do for - ["You are loved" Book Giveaway and Info on Next GMG Study!](https://www.claresmith.me/you-are-loved-book-giveaway-and-info-on-next-gmg-study/) - Hi friends! I am SO excited to share with you this post today! My sweet friends Angela Perritt and Sally Clarkson teamed up to write a new book called, "You are loved"! and I'm giving away some copies of it! Here is Angela and I a couple years ago at the Allume conference..... And Sally - [God has your heart but who has your body?](https://www.claresmith.me/god-has-your-heart-but-who-has-your-body/) - This is a quote that I read a couple years ago from Elisabeth Elliot's book, "Discipline, The Glad Surrender." It shook me up because it was so profound. God has my heart, but I can't say that He always has my body. I see 3 main areas where this applies: › Our health: Am I holding - [The Other Side of "Dancing Through Life"..and carrying someone's burdens.](https://www.claresmith.me/the-other-side-of-dancing-through-life-and-carrying-someones-burdens/) - If case you've missed it, Candace Cameron Bure's newest book, "Dancing Through Life: Steps of Courage and Conviction", released August 1st! This book is centered around her journey with DWTS (She took home 3rd place. Holla!) but draws many parallels about her life as an actress and public figure, and how she manages the tension between - [The Prayer Before The Temptation](https://www.claresmith.me/the-prayer-before-the-temptation/) - Temptations. You got them? I bet you do. Our first response is usually to pray once we get into the situation for help--and yes-while that's something we need to do, the first step actually occurs BEFORE the temptation is in front of us. Jesus is asking us to prep ourselves, if you will, to get - [Beating That Giant: Friday Motivation](https://www.claresmith.me/beating-that-giant-friday-motivation/) - This is some good news for a Friday! I know the Giant(s) in my life that seems daunting and makes me feel weak in the knees. But I often forget about the Giant who defeated death and LIVES inside of me! That Giant--and you know what it is because it came right to mind when - [Book Review: Women of the Word (by Jen Wilkin)](https://www.claresmith.me/book-review-women-of-the-word-by-jen-wilkin/) - I don't normally do book reviews because that's not my main focus for this blog, however, every once in a while I come across one that I feel like you should all read that ties into my message and I've got one for you today! Now I'm sure you think that it is about health--eating or - [New Years Resolutions and Where You're Going Wrong](https://www.claresmith.me/new-years-resolutions-and-where-youre-going-wrong/) - Well hello! It's been a while since I've actually put up a blog post here. The holidays were a nice and busy time for my family and I hope they were for you, too! I want to touch on a few things with this post. (If you follow me on Facebook or instagram you may have - [It's time to do the brave thing](https://www.claresmith.me/its-time-to-do-the-brave-thing/) - Some of you are hitting the pillow tonight with some hard things on your mind. Maybe suffocating is a better word. You are unsettled. Fearful. Doubtful. Confused. Maybe God is asking you to confront a situation that you've been avoiding, or He's asking you to give up that stronghold that's been choking you day and - [Spring Break studies and such!](https://www.claresmith.me/spring-break-studies-and-such/) - Spring break is here for many of you and you might have some extra time to look into a new book or some Bible studies! I have a few I'd love to tell you about! (Plus a bonus workout for when you get frustrated over break. Oh, that's just me? :) ) Enjoy your break! - [A Monday Prayer](https://www.claresmith.me/a-monday-prayer/) - I love praying scripture! It is one of the tools God's given us to fight the spiritual battles that you can be SURE will nail you this week. Lord, may my spirit, soul and body be kept blameless until I see you. It's such a tiring process but I know you are using this aging - [The test played out before God, Angels, and Demons](https://www.claresmith.me/the-test-played-out-before-god-angels-and-demons/) - I found this quote on Beth Moore's twitter feed a month ago and put it up near my desk. This pic resonated with many on my social media accounts so I wanted to make sure those of you who may not use instagram or Facebook had access to it. Feel free to pin, re-make or - [Book Review: Your Sacred Yes](https://www.claresmith.me/book-review-your-sacred-yes/) - I don't do a ton of book reviews on this site but every once in a while one comes along that slaps me in the face that I cannot help but tell you guys about! I heard Susie Larson on a podcast sometime this spring (can't remember which one) and I loved her overall message and - [Offsides in Life](https://www.claresmith.me/offsides-in-life/) - 5 years ago, Deion Sanders in his Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement speech talked about how the game of football taught him timing---that there are things you can't do prematurely. He said, "They call it offsides. In life, it's just life." What a great reminder for us as we are in an age where - [Introduction of a NEW Series! "Your Second New Year: Course-Correct, Re-Focus, and Awaken Your Year"](https://www.claresmith.me/introduction-of-a-new-series-your-second-new-year-course-correct-re-focus-and-awaken-your-year/) - Hello! I feel like I should be greeting and almost re-introducing myself to many of you as I haven't actually written a blog post in nearly a year! I do most of my writing on social media (Facebook and instagram) so if you don't follow me there, you may feel a little out of the - [How A Modern Woman Tears Her House Down #homewrecker](https://www.claresmith.me/how-a-modern-woman-tears-her-house-down-homewrecker/) - We are in the middle of week 3 of the "Living + Active" challenge. I wanted to make sure and share the post from our special guest about CRAVINGS! If you've been part of our challenge before, you will be familiar with it, but for those of you who are new, please be sure to - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Summer W](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-summer-w/) - We are ready for another Shed & Share story! Meet Summer! ♥♥♥ {The Basics} Name: Summer W. Age: 41 Profession: a wife to Randy, and a homeschool mom of 3 children - my son Taran is 16, my daughter Skylar Kaylyn is 15, and my daughter Serenity just turned 8. How long have you been - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Sarah L.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-sarah-l/) - I've got another Shed & Share story for you that will surely get you moving towards your fitness goals! I actually know Sarah in real life! My husband recruited hers to the college he attended. They stayed friends which meant I became friends! They were a huge part in helping us with our "fixer-upper" house - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Maggie B.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-maggie-b/) - I've got another Shed & Share story for you that will make you want to go through the computer and hug her! Meet Maggie and see her awesome transformation!! (My Shed & Share links are acting weird, so be sure to search through all the stories!) {The Basics} Name: Maggie B. Age: 27 Profession: Currently - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Nicci N.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-nicci-n/) - There are times when these Shed & Share stories are more of an encouragement for me than you. Today is one of those times. I've known Nicci my whole life. We were childhood best friends and even though years took us miles apart, we've been able to re-connect and be a part of each other's - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Charity S.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-charity-s/) - One day back in the fall, this gal named Charity started filling up my facebook wall with a lot of posts. At first, I thought that was kind of weird as she was the only one doing this, but then was very encouraged by her determination and willingness to "put it out there" often! I - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Michelle S.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-michelle-s/) - One of my previous Shed & Sharer's (Sarah) emailed me and said that I needed to get in contact with her cousin, Michelle. After a few emails, I understood exactly why she suggested it. I am so happy to share with you her story. So touching. (And so amazing!) {The Basics} Age : 31 - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Jennifer F.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-jennifer-f/) - There's no better way to start off the "Living and Active" challenge, than to hear a new "Shed & Share" story! These are real-life women with real-life obstacles, finding real-life solutions for their real-life weight struggles! (Take some time and view the 13 Shed stories I have on the blog already!) I have had so - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Cindy D.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-cindy-d/) - It's been a while since I've had a new Shed & Share on here! I've got a few stories in my emails, but I just haven't had time to get them out. It's time for a new one!! I figure we could all use a mid January inspiration, so meet Cindy D! {The Basics} Age: 38 - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Jinny S.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-jinny-s/) - My favorite series of the blog is back with a new story! Meet Jinny S, our newest, "Shed & Share" story! {The Basics} Age: 32 Profession: Customer Service Rep How long have you been on this weight loss journey? about 6 years Weight Loss/Inches: 61 pounds Blog/Facebook Page: I blogged about weight loss on realworldeats.blogspot.com, but converted over to my every day blog realworldgirl.blogspot.com in - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Susan S.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-susan-s/) - It's time for our mid-week motivation! Meet Susan S--our newest "Shed & Share"! I love this story because it involves both a husband and wife getting in shape! {The Basics} Age: 40 Profession: Wife and stay-at-home/homeschooling mamma to 4 amazing kiddos, 2 boys & 2 girls, 16, 14, 7 & 5. How long have you been on this - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Abby V.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-abby-v/) - Last summer, while I was watching our city's first marathon, I had a runner (mid-race) come up to me and say, "Hey Clare! I follow your blog and really enjoy it!" (How she spotted me, I have no idea! I think it was my tall hubby!) I had no clue who this gal was! I - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Holly B.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-holly-b/) - We haven't had a "Shed & Share" story since April. Ahh! We are WAY over due for a little encouragement and motivation! I had the chance to meet our next sharer in person just the other day. Through a few random messages, we realized that she lives minutes away from my in-laws. We were able - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Regina C](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-regina-c/) - So, I've been holding onto this Shed & Share story for a few months now. I wanted to share it with you when I felt like you could really use the inspiration, so here it is--the last week of our "Living and Active" challenge! Regina is a real-life friend. We attend the same church and I - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Jacqueline E.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-jacqueline-e/) - Being a mama to 3 young ones presents some challenges to getting and staying healthy! I love how our newest Shed & Share story has made it work in her life! Meet Jacqueline and find out how she's lost over 40 pounds! ♥♥♥ {The Basics} Age: 34 Profession: Mom to 3 and Part Time Work From - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Casey P.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-casey-p/) - Eeek! It's been since November that we've had a "Shed & Share" story! (If you aren't sure what that is, it's real life stories of real life women sharing how they shed the extra weight on their body, and many times, in their lives!) This story is super special to me because I've actually met - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Amanda H.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-amanda-h/) - I'm going to take you back in time for a bit with our next sharer! Mandy and I attended the same church and were very involved in youth group together. We were a part of a fantastic group of friends who loved the Lord, and had a great time! We went our separate ways once - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Jessica S.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wed-jessica-s-2/) - Love, this story! 100 lbs--AMAZING!!! You will be inspired both by Jessica and her hubby!!! (Click here to see more Shed & Share stories!) ♥♥♥ {The Basics} Age: 31 Profession: I am currently a homeschooling mum of three and help my husband with the administration end of our exterior renovation business. In the past though - [{Shed & Share Wednesdays} Kelli H.](https://www.claresmith.me/shed-share-wednesdays-kelli-h/) - First off, for those of you still in the "Living and Active" challenge, be sure to check-in for last week! (The latest blog post may have gotten hidden in your emails because of another post I had close to it!) Now, for those of you who are new, "Shed & Share" stories are stories about - [The key to "Balancing it All"- What we learned this week from Candace Cameron Bure](https://www.claresmith.me/key-to-balancing-it-all-what-we-learned-this-week-from-bure/) - I just gone done reading Candace Cameron Bure's book, "Balancing It All: My Story of Juggling Priorities and Purpose"--the FIRST book I read in 2014!!! Many of you have read her the New York Times bestselling book, "Reshaping it All: Motivation for Physical and Spiritual Fitness"--a SUPER encouragement in regards to our health. Her newest - [FoodSaver® Vacuum System Review: Making the most out of your time & money in the kitchen!](https://www.claresmith.me/foodsaver-vacuum-system-review-making-the-most-out-of-your-time-money-in-the-kitchen/) - Eating fresh, whole foods is the number one mover to your health! You can exercise all you want but if you don't control what you put on your plate, you won't get the biggest bang for your buck. This means you have to spend more time in the kitchen, prepping and planning. This all takes - [Myth Busting for Mamas! (Do you believe any?) "Hoodwinked" releases today!](https://www.claresmith.me/myth-busting-for-mamas-do-you-believe-any-hoodwinked-releases-today/) - I am so excited to let you know that "Hoodwinked: 10 Myths Moms Believe & Why We All Need To Knock It Off" releases today! YAY! I am super excited about this because two of my very dear friends, Karen Ehman and Ruth Schwenk wrote the book and this was the curriculum DVD taping I - [2016 Christmas Fit List! (Clare's Favorites)](https://www.claresmith.me/2016-christmas-fit-list-clares-favorites/) - Hey all! I thought I would compile a few of MY favorite things that I love to help you with your Christmas list. If you are anything like me, the older you get, the harder it is to tell people what you want, however there are things that would be awesome to receive that you - [New Move Monday: Butt Blaster](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-butt-blaster/) - You want to lift and tone your rear? Try this exercise on for size. You'll feel it right away, especially in combination with other lower body exercises done the same day! ♥♥♥ Grab your exercise band and go to the floor. Take both ends of the band in one hand and loop the same side - [{31.3 Jump} Week 4- FINAL WEEK + The "J.Lo" #1 (Video)!](https://www.claresmith.me/31-3-jump-week-4-final-week/) - Well ladies. You've done it! We are in the final week of the {31.3 Jump}! 1.) Time to check-in! How did you do last week? 2.) I've got your printable this week and another video! This is my most requested exercise in my classes and even though the pain is great, the excitement for it - [New Move Monday: The "J.Lo": Variation #2!](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-the-j-lo-variation-2/) - The original J.Lo exercise that I use in class is already on the blog and it's very popular. However, this one is much harder and a nice change! Enjoy! ♥♥♥ Click here if you can't view the video! Linking up with Women Living Well! - [Recipe: Mexican Flatbread Pizza](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-mexican-flatbread-pizza/) - It's time for a recipe! I would consider this a healthy dinner option for our family. (You can read my views on healthy eating here) My friend, Stacey, posted a picture of this on facebook a few months ago and I knew immediately I wanted to make it!! I love incorporating black beans and tomatoes - [Recipe: Orange 'n Red Onion Salad](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-orange-n-red-onion-salad/) - Here's a yummy lunch option especially with summer rounding the corner!! It's crunchy, zesty, citrusy and FRESH! Pair this salad with a cup of cottage cheese and you have an EXCELLENT, healthy, nutrient packed lunch!! (p.s. Pack your breath mints) Check out my new PRINT button on the top of the post. Exciting!! Orange 'n - [Recipe: Breakfast Quinoa](https://www.claresmith.me/breakfast-quinoa/) - Here's a great recipe if you want to try Quinoa! Ingredients: ♦ 1 cup Quinoa ♦ Brown Sugar (to your taste. I started with a little less than 1/4 cup) ♦ Milk (to your taste. Experiment with coconut or almond milk!) ♦ 1 Banana, sliced ♦ Craisins, raisins, almonds etc (to your taste) Preparation: Cook - [Recipe: Healthy Snack Mix](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-healthy-snack-mix/) - I am a BIG fan of snack mixes! The problem is that many ready made snack mixes are not that healthy at all. I prefer to make them myself. I can control the freshness of the food, the variety and the portion. I've made quite a few varieties of snack mixes over the years and - [Recipe: Black Bean Dip](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-black-bean-dip/) - There's no question about it. You will make this dip and people will ask for it again and again and again! It's a little labor intensive, but SO worth it! (See Week 4 of the "Try It" challenge to learn more about avocados!) Ingredients: ♦ 2 medium ripe avocados, peeled and diced ♦ 2 - [Recipe: Italian Orzo Salad](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-italian-orzo-salad/) - This recipe is great to bring to a summer cookout or to add as a side (or even as your main dish) to your evening meal. It's even better the second day! (Another one of my *most requested* recipes!!!) Italian Orzo Salad Ingredients ♦ 6 cups chicken broth ♦ 1 package (16 ounces) orzo pasta - [Recipe: Cottage Cheese Salad/Dip](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-cottage-cheese-saladdip/) - If you are like me, getting veggies in to meet your daily quota is a difficult task. A salad like this is a great way to get the antioxidants we need along with some protein to give us a fuller feeling longer. Make this to keep in your refrigerator for a healthier option to a - [Cooking with Candace & a Giveaway!](https://www.claresmith.me/cooking-with-candace-a-giveaway/) - ***Giveaway Closed! Winner Posted on Wednesday, July 6th!** Today I have a guest post from someone I think you might know, Candace Cameron Bure, author of "Reshaping it All: Motivation for Physical and Spiritual Fitness" ! I'm so excited to feature this recipe because it's another twist on one of the items we did for - [Recipe: Guacamole](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-guacamole/) - I must say, I never was a guacamole fan. But ever since I started eating avocados in my fav dip, I find that I'll eat avocado in anything I can get! My friend Leslie made this guacamole dip this summer and it's a great basic recipe! The cilantro in it gives it a great flavor! - [Recipe: Fresh Green Beans (2 recipes!)](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-fresh-green-beans-2-recipes/) - I happen to love fresh green beans. (My favorite is how my Grandma makes them) BUT I wanted to try some new recipes with them. Here are 2 recipes! Green Beans with Parmigiano Reggiano (taken from www.relish.com) Ingredients ♦ 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil ♦ 1 pound green beans, trimmed and left whole or cut - [Recipe: Pineapple-Mango Smoothie](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-pineapple-mango-smoothie/) - McDonalds has a Pineapple-Mango smoothie. This may be one of the healthier options at McD, but it's definitely not the role model smoothie. Check out the ingredients and food label. (Keep in mind serving size) Let's make our own from scratch. The beauty of smoothies is that you really can't mess them up. Play around - [Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Soup](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-stuffed-pepper-soup/) - I found this little gem of a recipe last fall and let me tell you. It rocks! I decided to substitute barley in it for the rice because barley has some excellent health benefits. ♦ EXCELLENT source of fiber and protein ♦ Cholesterol and sodium free ♦ Helps REDUCE cholesterol! (This is great considering my - [Introducing: {Double Delicious Fridays}](https://www.claresmith.me/introducing-double-delicious-fridays/) - Ladies!! I'm soooo excited for this new "series" starting today!! I have had many of you write in for healthy recipes but not just for you and hubby, but for your kids also! I've had a cookbook sitting on my shelf for almost a year and have been dying to dig into it. The thought - [Recipe: Nutella Kiss Cookies](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-nutella-kiss-cookies/) - Warning: The dough is to DIE for! :) I made these with my 4 year old son one afternoon. So fun and very delicious! ♥♥♥ Nutella Kiss Cookies (from Giada De Laurentis, www.foodnetwork.com) Ingredients ♦ 1 3/4 cup flour ♦ 1 tsp baking soda ♦ 1/2 tsp salt ♦ 1/2 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread (I use - [Recipe: Pumpkin Ravioli {DD Fridays}](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-pumpkin-ravioli-dd-fridays/) - It's Double Delicious Friday! OK all you pumpkin lovers! Put down your pumpkin rolls, donuts and lattes and try this instead! Pumpkin Ravioli Ingredients ♦ 1 (15-ounce) can low-sodium white beans (navy) rinsed and drained ♦ 1/2 cup canned 100% pure pumpkin puree ♦ 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese ♦ 1/4 cup grated Parmesan ♦ - [Recipe: Bacon & Egg Cups {DD Fridays}](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-bacon-egg-cups-dd-fridays/) - It's Double Delicious Friday! Our family loves eating breakfast for dinner. I love the cute idea of the folded tortilla too! Head's up! You need a cauliflower puree for this one! Bacon & Egg Cups Ingredients ♦ Nonstick cooking spray ♦ 4 fajita-size (6-inch) whole-wheat tortillas ♦ 1 large egg ♦ 3 large egg whites - [Pureeing 101 {Double Delicious Fridays}](https://www.claresmith.me/pureeing-101-double-delicious-fridays/) - I decided that I needed to write a post about pureeing since this is a large part of my Double Delicious Fridays!! Honestly, this is one thing that has held me back from using the recipes in this book. I didn't really know how to do the pureeing and I also didn't need one extra - [Recipe: Fig Bars {DD Fridays}](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-fig-bars-dd-fridays/) - It's Double Delicious Friday!! Who doesn't love a fig newton?! My family could pound a package of those in one sitting!! Was so excited to find this recipe. You need a spinach puree for this one! (You will also need to let the dough chill overnight so keep that in mind!) Fig Bars Ingredients Dough - [Recipe: Maple Peanut Butter Fondue (DD Fridays)](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-maple-peanut-butter-fondue-dd-fridays/) - We are in apple season! Who doesn't love a refreshing sliced apple dipped in caramel, peanut butter, or nutella? I have a new dip for you! I have to say. This is my favorite recipe, so far, that I've made for Double Delicious Friday!! Make sure you portion it out! It would be so easy - [Recipe: Pasta with Pea Pesto (DD Fridays)](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-pasta-with-pea-pesto-dd-fridays/) - It's Friday and that means I have a Double Delicious Recipe for you! This is FABULOUS!! And it doesn't require puree prep beforehand! YAY! This can be eaten cold or warm! Pasta with Pea Pesto Ingredients Pesto ♦ 2 cups peas (fresh or frozen, blanched in boiling water for 30 seconds and shocked in cold - [Recipe: Asian Apricot Chicken (Crockpot!)](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-asian-apricot-chicken-crockpot/) - I got this fabulous recipe from my friend Stacy! It has sort of an "Asian" taste. I have passed it onto a few other friends and it has been a hit with them It is a few basic ingredients which is great when I'm at the store and I don't have my list. :) Asian - [Recipe: Festive Feta Cheese Ball](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-festive-feta-cheese-ball/) - So this isn't the most low-fat appetizer, but I'm all about moderation!! This is an excellent addition to a dinner party. It has been a hit everywhere! Festive Feta Cheese Ball (taken from Taste of Home) Ingredients ♦ 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened ♦ 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese ♦ 2 teaspoons - [Recipe: Santa's Snack Mix](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-santas-snack-mix/) - I LOVE a good snack mix! You may be surprised that I'd eat something with M&M's, peanut butter chips and white chocolate chips, but I do!! I made this mix and put them into little goody bags for my Pilates class! They have final exams next week and I like to give them something on - [Recipe: White Chili (Crockpot!)](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-white-chili-crockpot/) - This is one of my favorite crockpot recipes. I've passed this recipe onto many people! My whole family loves it. (The sour cream/greek yogurt is a must in this soup!) White Chicken Chili Ingredients ♦ 3 15oz cans Great Northern beans, drained ♦ 8 oz. cooked and shredded chicken breasts (canned chicken can be used!) ♦ 1 cup - [Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Toss](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-mediterranean-tuna-pasta-toss/) - The honest truth is I never crave a salad. I wish I did, but many times they leave me feeling hungry! I found this recipe in an old Pampered Chef cookbook. I love it because it's a little heartier yet leaves you feeling light! I made this salad and was able to eat it for - [Recipe: Nutella Vanilla Smoothie](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-nutella-vanilla-smoothie/) - Oh yes. You heard me right. I mentioned this on my facebook wall last week and you guys flocked to it fast! I found a recipe online but have modified it a little bit. Choose this to satisfy a sweet craving. Have it instead of ice cream at night or use it as a mid-afternoon - [Recipe: Veggie Tortellini Soup](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-veggie-tortellini-soup/) - I made this earlier in the week and we all really enjoyed it! I don't buy tortellini a lot since it can have lots of crazy ingredients in it, but every once in a while, it's a nice treat. Veggie Tortellini Soup (Taste of Home) Ingredients ♦ 5 cups chicken broth ♦ 1 package (16 ounces) frozen - [Recipe: Strawberry Coconut Smoothie](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-strawberry-coconut-smoothie/) - Here's a sweet treat to make the love of your life happy this Valentine's Day weekend! My husband LOVES smoothies. If I had a fresh smoothie waiting for him when he came home from work every day, he literally would be grinning from ear to ear. My kids love them too! As usual, smoothies are - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays/) - I'm adding a new part to my blog every Friday. It's called "Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays"! Many bloggers are compiling a list of favorite links or items each week now so I thought I'd join the crowd! This is a way for me to expand into other things than fitness that I - [Recipe: No More Muffin-Top Mac & Cheese](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-no-more-muffin-top-mac-cheese/) - My friend Leslie got this recipe out of a Cooking Light magazine about 6 years ago. (She also gave it the name!) We both make it a lot and always get asked for the recipe so I thought you might enjoy it too! (Someone asked me just last week for it!) It's a healthier twist - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-4/) - It's time for another installment of Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays!! Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. The FiveFinger shoes are the new rage right now! I haven't had - [Recipe: Mocha Coconut Protein Shake](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-mocha-coconut-protein-shake/) - I don't even feel like this should be considered "healthy" in the slightest because it is SO good and tastes exactly like the Starbucks one! I use protein shakes/smoothies as a supplement to my diet to make sure that I am getting enough protein in this lean mean machine of mine!! :) I like playing - [Recipe: Creamy Strawberry Peach Smoothie](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-creamy-strawberry-peach-smoothie/) - PEACHES! What a delightful fruit! I have really been enjoying them lately so when my running partner and friend, Leslie, told me she was adding them to her daily strawberry smoothie, I was game! It was delicious and gave it a nice flavor so I thought I'd share the love! (Thanks, Leslie!) Use a smoothie - [Get That "Glow" You Want With Green Smoothies!](https://www.claresmith.me/get-that-glow-you-want-with-green-smoothies/) - Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably heard of the term green smoothies. Yes, I'm talking about those smoothies that have a rocking green color, but make you think twice about consuming!! Sometimes it's hard to get enough fruits and veggies in a day, so this is a quick and easy way to - [Recipe: Fall Pumpkin Oatmeal](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-fall-pumpkin-oatmeal/) - Where are my pumpkin, pumpkin eaters?! Here's a twist on your basic oatmeal! (Recipe from "Skinny Rules", by Bob Harper) Fall Pumpkin Oatmeal Ingredients ♦ 1/2 cup rolled oats ♦ 1/4 cup almond or skim milk ♦ 1/2 cup water ♦ 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon ♦ 1/4 teaspoon nutmug ♦ 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree ♦ 1/2 tablespoon ground flax seed ♦ 1 tablespoon - [Recipe: Sweet Potato and Oat Pancakes with Warmed Berries](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-sweet-potato-and-oat-pancakes-with-warmed-berries/) - Here's another recipe that I got from Bob Harper's "Skinny Rules". These may not taste like your normal pancake, but these are such a great morning option and awesome post workout snack! (Sweet potatoes rock for a clean post workout carb!) I've made this as one really large pancake and as 4 smaller ones. Do - [Recipe: Quinoa & Radicchio Salad With Dried Cherries & Pistachios](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-quinoa-radicchio-salad-with-dried-cherries-pistachios/) - I found this recipe in Williams-Sonoma Salad of the Day: 365 Recipes for Every Day Of The Year, and couldn't wait to get my hands on it! I am always up for a new recipe that uses quinoa and LOVED the sweet and salty combination with the cherries and pistachios! I have a feeling this - [Recipe: Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Walnuts](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-shredded-brussels-sprouts-with-walnuts/) - Brussels sprouts are now my absolute favorite vegetable! I LOVE them just roasted with a little salt and pepper, but I found this recipe and it has been a great addition! My kids eat them this way and I think it's because they are much smaller. NOTE: These aren't exactly "shredded" as much as they - [9 "30 minute or less" clean eating dinners...suggested by YOU!](https://www.claresmith.me/9-30-minute-or-less-clean-eating-dinners-suggested-by-you/) - A month ago, I played a fun little game with those of you facebook friends! The challenge? Run to the grocery store and in under 10 minutes, get ingredients for a "clean eating" family dinner that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less! You came through with flying colors! Some of you wanted to have - [Designer Whey (Product Review)](https://www.claresmith.me/designer-whey-product-review/) - Being a Fitfluential Ambassador gives me the chance to review some awesome health and fitness products out there. I'm looking forward to more of these in the future, so it can help you sort out all the stuff out there! ♥♥♥ I've been on a "more protein" kick for a year now, and have been - [Recipe: Vanilla Almond Protein Waffles](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-vanilla-almond-protein-waffles/) - Sooooo....you know I love my protein. I am looking for ways to get it in my diet, all the time. I also love waffles. So why not mix the two?! I made this a few days ago and posted it on facebook and instagram and all y'all wanted the recipe, so here goes! The beauty - [Recipe: Bottom of the {nut butter} Jar Oatmeal](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-bottom-of-the-nut-butter-jar-oatmeal/) - Have you heard of "bottom of the jar" recipes? I first heard about them from Rachael Ray. You can find quite a few recipes out there to make use of those little remnants left in the bottom of your jars! You all know that I love my nut butters--but the thing about nut butter (especially - [Recipe: Chocolate Almond Butter Popsicles](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-chocolate-almond-butter-popsicles/) - I found this recipe from The Detoxinista so it's a variation of it! Chocolate Almond Butter Popsicles ♦ 3 large ripe bananas ♦ 1/2 cup chocolate almond butter (*or nut butter of choice!) ♦ 1/2 cup almond milk, or water ♦ 1 tablespoon honey ♦ 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract ♦ 1/4 teaspoon salt (*If nut butter has none) Put all ingredients - [3 Uses for Liquid Stevia Drops + A Recipe for Protein "Cereal"](https://www.claresmith.me/3-uses-for-liquid-stevia-drops-a-recipe-for-protein-cereal/) - Over the past few years, I have really dialed back on the "sweetness" I like in my foods. However, there are times when you do want something to be sweeter but don't want the calories in sugar or the chemicals in other sweeteners. Stevia has been a great option for me and I have to - [Recipe: Oatmeal Coconut Breakfast Smoothie](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-oatmeal-coconut-breakfast-smoothie/) - The school year is coming which means busy mornings! Here's a great breakfast option for you or your kids that my friend Leslie makes. I like to combine this with a hard boiled egg to sustain me through the morning. Both are easy to grab and go! Feel free to mix up the milks, fruit - [Recipe: Apple Nachos](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-apple-nachos/) - I found this recipe a couple years ago and it's definitely one of my quick, "go-to" snacks when I want something crunchy, yet sweet! I love making this when we have people over. I even did it one night when my hubby had guys over for a game. Yes--they loved it! There are so many - [Recipe: "No Bake" Chocolate Chia PB Cookies](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-no-bake-chocolate-chia-pb-cookies/) - Well, do I have a nice little treat for you! Many people ask me how I satisfy a sweet tooth if I don't want to eat something really unhealthy. The answer is, I make something that works for my nutrition goals! (And yes, I do eat an occasional Kit Kat!) These Almond Butter bites are - [Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Grilled Zucchini Slices](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-parmesan-garlic-grilled-zucchini-slices/) - After I made these the other day, I randomly put them up on Facebook and instagram and it got lots of good feedback, so I thought I'd put it in a post for those of you who want to pin it or bookmark it! Parmesan Garlic Grilled Zucchini Slices Ingredients: - Zucchini - Olive Oil - [Recipe: Strawberry Coconut Breakfast Quinoa](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-strawberry-coconut-quinoa/) - I put this up on instagram and Facebook yesterday and it went over well, so I thought I'd put it here in case you don't follow me there or want to pin it! It was my post-workout/breakfast meal! A tip: Make a big batch of plain quinoa at the beginning of the week and keep in - [Recipe: California Quinoa Salad](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-california-quinoa-salad/) - It's July 4th weekend and I'm always looking for a healthy side dish to bring to picnics! I found this while searching on pinterest and oh my word! So delish! This will become one of my new staples! I feel like there are a lot of ways you can change this recipe up depending on - [Recipe: Crockpot Chicken Fajita Soup](https://www.claresmith.me/recipe-crockpot-chicken-fajita-soup/) - If you follow me on instagram or Facebook, you know that I am in love with my crockpot! It is my best friend in the kitchen and helps me keep a homemade, healthy dinner ready for my family! This recipe is one of my favorites! Remember, you can adjust the seasonings and quantities of any - [3 Meals. 2 Products. 1 Winter Day: A Peek Into My Go-To Healthy Meals!](https://www.claresmith.me/3-meals-2-products-1-winter-day-a-peek-into-my-go-to-healthy-meals/) - *GIVEAWAY CLOSED* The winter. A time for snow, netflix, dry skin, and comfort food- grilled cheese and soup, warm brownie sundaes, chicken pot pie and creamy hot chocolate. Now if you've followed me long enough, you know that I'm not against any of these foods. In fact I think it's important to love the food - [Spartan Race Giveaway Winner & The Truth About Who You Are](https://www.claresmith.me/spartan-winner-truth-about-who-you-are/) - Thanks so much for entering the Spartan Race Giveaway! I was getting excited as I watched all your comments come in! I may have to sign up for the one in Ohio now! haha! But before I tell you the winner, I wanted to share something that I shared on my Facebook page. Many of - [Season more than your turkey on Thanksgiving....](https://www.claresmith.me/season-more-than-your-turkey-on-thanksgiving/) - Happy Thanksgiving, friends! I wish I could sit across the table from each one of you and enjoy food and fellowship but until we meet in heaven, this will have to do! I want to leave you with a few Thanksgiving thoughts I had today (and I shared on Facebook). ♥♥♥ I mentioned in a - [The problem is your FEEDING not your EATING](https://www.claresmith.me/the-problem-is-your-feeding-not-your-eating/) - Today's struggle with be with your FEEDING not EATING. You will feel the tension primarily in 2 areas: - faith or fear - flesh or spirit Feast yourself on truth--that which is pure, holy, upright, and good. Disregard the empty calories of lies, fast promises, & words that only tickle your ears. You will be - [Why "the resistance" is worth it...](https://www.claresmith.me/why-the-resistance-is-worth-it/) - "Clare, ____ is so hard. I keep trying and failing. It's a daily struggle for me. Why can't the situation be easier?" The open blank will look different for everyone. Maybe it's an addiction of yours, a certain issue in your marriage, your weight, or your self-confidence....Follow me over to "The Better Mom" where I - [New Move Monday: Calf Raises Gone Crazy!](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-calf-raises-gone-crazy/) - We've all done your basic calf raise a million times, right? You've done it with weights, off a step or even with one leg lifted. This progression of raises changes the angle that your heels are pointed. You will feel the exercise a little differently this way! You will also feel the stretch and strengthen - [New Move Monday: Raised Single Leg Lunge](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-raised-single-leg-lunge/) - I didn't have a chance to record the new abs video I teased you about on Facebook, so instead you get this! I went on a run this weekend and brought my camera. You can do this exercise during a run (if you are wanting to add some strength training) or even at the gym! - [New Move Monday: On the Edge Abs](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-on-the-edge-abs/) - Hey y'all! I'm back from Savannah, GA! I had a wonderful time visiting that city and would love to return! While there, I did the New Move Monday, so here you go. You can do this exercise inside or outside! ♥♥♥ Sit on the edge of a bench, sidewalk or ledge. Hold onto the edge - [New Move Monday: The "Side Street SCORCHER" Workout](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-the-side-street-scorcher-workout/) - I've been attending an outdoor fitness challenge/running class once a week over the summer with my running partner and friend Leslie. It's so much fun even though it challenges me to no end! We run all over our town doing Indians runs, hill runs, sprints, bodyweight exercises and more. Last week we used some of - [My favorite end-of-summer/beginning-of-fall, fit activities!](https://www.claresmith.me/my-favorite-end-of-summerbeginning-of-fall-fit-activities/) - If there's a time in my life where I'm most excited to be outside, it's right now. The season is starting to change and it's like God is beckoning us all to come out and enjoy His creation! Knowing that winter will be at our doorstep in a few short months (and will it ever, - [New Move Monday: Inner Thigh Lift on Exercise Ball](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-inner-thigh-lift-on-exercise-ball/) - The inner thigh is a difficult area to target yet it's an area that many women ask me about. I found this move "by accident" a few years ago playing around with the ball while working out at the gym. It's very effective!! Be patient with yourselves on this move. It generally takes my students - [New Move Monday: Half Circle w/Medicine Ball (one-leg)](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-one-leg-half-circle-wmedicine-ball/) - I used to do this move all the time about 6 years ago and it zapped my legs and abs in shape in no time. I forgot about it, but then pulled out my medicine ball the other day and it came back! I am using an 8 pound med ball, but I'd recommend anywhere - [New Move Monday: Angle Variety Abs w Ball](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-angle-variety-abs-w-ball/) - There are 3 levels to this move. Ultimately, I'd like you to progress through each move, WITHOUT stopping the upper body. THAT IS THE KEY TO THIS MOVE. Do 10 reps at each level and try NOT to stop once you move from level 3 back to level 1 on the SECOND set. Of course, - [New Move Monday: Stomp the Ceiling](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-stomp-the-ceiling/) - No equipment? No problem! This is a great strengthener for the lower back, glutes and legs. This move can also be done on the exercise ball, but today I'll demonstrate for the floor. Add this move to your routine a few times a week and you'll feel much taller and tighter through the midsection! ♥♥♥ - [New Move Monday: Ball Pass Thru Legs](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-ball-pass-thru-legs/) - Here's an AWESOME, difficult abdominal exercise! ♥♥♥ (Instruction below the picture) Start with the ball and legs and arms as seen in the photo above. Take the ball with your hands and move the arms and legs away from each other. Arms will go beside the head, legs will extend down towards the floor Don't - [New Move Monday: The Tilt & Touch](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-the-tilt-touch/) - Our balance is something that gets worse the older we get. This move will help improve it and also help tone and strengthen the glutes and core! ♥♥♥ (Instructions follow picture) Start standing in the position above. Start to hinge, or tilt forward from the waist. DO NOT BEND IN THE LEGS but keep a - [New Move Monday: The Bent Leg Crunch](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-the-bent-leg-crunch/) - Sometimes it's nice to do some floor exercises with your abs! I'm usually incorporating balls or bands for my abs. Nothing better than just plopping on the floor and toning up the midsection! You can do this exercise 2 ways: 1.) Pick a level and complete all reps/sets at that level 2.) Do it in - [New Move Monday: Knee to Chest Ab Roll & Pike](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-knee-to-chest-abroll-pike/) - I did these 2 exercises today with my aerobics class, so if you think I'm crazy, then they are too!! :) ♥♥♥ (Instruction below picture) Grab large exercise ball. Place the ball where your quads are and put hands straight down on the floor, shoulder-width apart. Gaze stays straight down. (You can start with the - [New Move Monday: Standing Leg Circles](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-standing-leg-circles/) - I've done this exercise for years in my classes. It's a great toner for the standing leg, core and hips! It will also work your balance which is very important. ♥♥♥ How To: 1.) Stand at about 7 o'clock with a big aerobics ball on the floor beside you. (Feel free to put weights around - [New Move Monday: Cardio Burst #2: Party Rock Legs & Abs](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-cardio-burst-2-party-rock-legs-abs/) - Here is another burst you can add into your at home workout routine or at the gym. Your heart rate will get up on this and you will also feel the burn in the legs! The Basic Moves in this Video: ♦ Squat with a Circle Knee Start with legs wider than hip width apart, with - [New Move Monday: Thread The Needle Ab Exercise](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-thread-the-needle-ab-exercise/) - This is a regular exercise for my pilates class! It will challenge your balance and tighten your core! (Video demonstration below) ♥♥♥ (Modification done on forearms!) Do 2 sets. 6-8 "threads" each side. If you can't see the video, click here! - [New Move Monday: Shoulder Bridge Burners (Video)](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-shoulder-bridge-burners-video/) - Shoulder bridges are exercises that I use in my pilates classes all the time! We do them straight on the floor, on a small ball, and I even do them with medicine balls at the gym! Today, I'm demonstrating a way to use what you have in your home to feel the burn on your - [New Move Monday: "The Hover"](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-the-hover/) - A quick demonstration video for today's New Move! Love using this in my classes and they are usually crying by the end of the sets!! ♥♥♥ Keep the whole body still as you "hover". Don't touch the ground with your knees! Do 2-3 sets of 12 hovers. You can also add the "hold" at the - [New Move Monday: Medicine Ball Full Body Blaster](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-medicine-ball-full-body-blaster/) - Small video demonstration below! REPS: 2-3 sets of 8-12 blasters (Click here if you can't see the video) Linking up with Women Living Well - [New Move Monday: Med Ball Taps (video)](https://www.claresmith.me/new-move-monday-med-ball-taps-video/) - "New Move Monday" has been in hiding for a while--it's time to re-emerge! When Candace was in town a few weeks ago, I put her through one of my typical workouts. We taped one of my favorite active rest/plyo moves so I want to share it with you! When I do my weight routine, it - [Lower Back & Glute Strengthener: Video](https://www.claresmith.me/lower-back-glute-strengthener-video/) - The lower back and glutes are generally neglected in workouts but they are both such crucial areas for your posture and a strong body. I love incorporating the mini-ball into my routine to change things up a bit. Ready to get tight and toned on your backside? Come do the video with me, over at - [5 Ways to Prevent & Treat Shin Splints](https://www.claresmith.me/5-ways-to-prevent-treat-shin-splints/) - I decided to write this post because I get asked this question a few times a month. I figured if that many people want to know about it, then you might too!! I haven't struggled with shin splints since my high school days, but let me tell you. I had them BAD!! I remember in - [Weight Watchers, Clean Eating, Crying it Out & Co-Sleeping: Things to Consider When Making a Decision for Your Family](https://www.claresmith.me/weight-watchers-crying-it-out-things-to-consider/) - A question I get a lot from people is, "What diet plan do you recommend for me to follow to lose weight?" It's such a hard question because there's simply no right answer for it. (Diet in the context of this post is defined as the sum of food consumed by a person) There are - [When "good" isn't always "God": Why there will be no January challenge](https://www.claresmith.me/when-good-isnt-always-god-why-there-will-be-no-january-challenge/) - And this is where I am supposed to be writing you all about the January challenge. It's where I'm supposed to be giving you new exercises, calendars, recipes, and check-in spots. It's where I should be encouraging, motivating, and challenging you to be your best physically because it is, after all, January---the month of resolution...the month - [You Won't Always Hit It Out of the Park](https://www.claresmith.me/you-wont-always-hit-it-out-of-the-park/) - I catch myself saying this phrase a lot lately, to myself and others..."You won't always hit it out of the park." (Photo Credit) What do I mean? You aren't going to always be perfect. You aren't going to always make the best choices. You aren't going to have everything lined up at all moments of - [How Purpose, Intensity and Consistency Rocked My Body This Year](https://www.claresmith.me/how-purpose-intensity-and-consistency-rocked-my-body-this-year/) - (...and when I say "rocked" I'm not saying that in a bragging way. I mean it as a "Holy cow--it hit it like a ton of bricks" way! I share this post for a few reasons (which I'll detail, below) but none of which is to brag. I hope you all know me by now - [What I Learned During My Year Back at Kindergarten](https://www.claresmith.me/what-i-learned-during-my-year-back-at-kindergarten/) - UPDATE: I first wrote this post 2 years ago. Now I can add that my daughter just finished kindergarten, so this is all fresh in my mind! My son just finished kindergarten! It has been so fun watching him progress through the year. I volunteer in his classroom twice a week so I feel like - [Frustrated in your health journey? Find your sweet spot!](https://www.claresmith.me/frustrated-in-your-health-journey-find-your-sweet-spot/) - There are some posts where God works on my heart by just marinating a subject for a while. He gives me something--either by my own revelation, or a comment from someone--and then adds on top of it as the weeks pass. It's a gradual process but by the end of it, I feel so strongly - [Hallmark's Premiere of "Let It Snow" with Candace Cameron Bure!](https://www.claresmith.me/hallmarks-premiere-of-let-it-snow-with-candace-cameron-bure/) - Hey everyone! I wanted to let you know about a tv movie coming out on Saturday, November 30 8/7c featuring my friend, Candace Cameron Bure. It's called "Let It Snow" and will be premiering on the Hallmark channel! Here is a little about it. "When Falcon Resorts acquires family-owned Snow Valley Lodge from retiring owners - [5 Misconceptions About Fit & Healthy People](https://www.claresmith.me/5-misconceptions-about-fit-healthy-people/) - There's nothing that fires me up than when I hear comments made about "fit and healthy" people that are incorrect. I've been on both the receiving and giving end of these, but generally find myself on the receiving end. I've had these comments said either directly or indirectly to me or friends of mine. I'd - [Permission to Transition](https://www.claresmith.me/permission-to-transition/) - "Clare, it's just so hard. My baby was sleeping well and now at 3 months is never consistent and I can't figure out any sort of routine!" "My mother in law took a turn for the worse. I am traveling back and forth from their house to mine and it's been hard to get to - [Fitspiration Friday: Ombres, Gray Hair, and Your Changing Body](https://www.claresmith.me/fitspiration-friday-ombres-gray-hair-and-your-changing-body/) - Hey everyone! I think I've mentioned this before, but for some reason, writing blog posts are very challenging for me. Facebook status are my bread and butter and it's my natural spot when I want to download some stuff I want to tell you all. The problem with that is 2-fold: 1) Not all of - [The Rebrand: Why I switched from Peak313 to Clare Smith](https://www.claresmith.me/the-rebrand-why-i-switched-from-peak313-to-clare-smith/) - It's a good question and one I've been asking myself for at least 2 years. Yes, that's right. 2 years. I've been wanting to do a good overhaul for a while now but for various reasons have not. When I started Peak313 in January 2011, I had no idea what my future held. I didn't - [That time my day was taken hostage...by my life](https://www.claresmith.me/that-time-my-day-was-taken-hostage-by-my-life/) - I wanted to share this Facebook update with those of you who aren't on it, aren't following me there (this is the perfect time to!), or forgot you hid my status updates. heehee. I've told you before--I do things a little backwards around here, often writing my blogs first via Facebook, then here. So here - [Blogger Getaway & DVD Taping (A peek into my week)](https://www.claresmith.me/blogger-getaway-dvd-taping-a-peek-into-my-week/) - Hey friends! I have been a little absent around here because last week I was busy with a bunch of bloggers! Yes--that's right--a bunch of my blogging friends got together to reconnect, refresh, and swap ideas and tips for this weird thing we do online. (You know, not everyone *gets* us! haha) Just a quick - [A peek inside my first TV interview!](https://www.claresmith.me/a-peek-inside-my-first-tv-interview/) - UPDATE: You can see the interview here! (Sign up for a free account!) I come on around the 8 minute mark but I would encourage you to watch the whole thing! ♥♥♥ If you read this blog post, I eluded to something that made me go, "EEEK!" and the cat's out of the bag--I had - [2015 Christmas Fit List! (Clare's favorites!)](https://www.claresmith.me/2015-christmas-fit-list-clares-favorites/) - Hey all! I thought I would compile a few of MY favorite things that I love to help you with your Christmas list. If you are anything like me, the older you get, the harder it is to tell people what you want, however there are things that would be awesome to receive that you - [Your Defiant Cart](https://www.claresmith.me/your-defiant-cart/) - Dr. Dobson in his book, "The New Strong-Willed Child" refers to the defiant child as a shopping cart with crooked, bent wheels. He compares it to a compliant child as a cart that's straight wheeled & well-oiled. One is easily guided with a gentle push, while another needs muscled and a little more effort to - [What's been going on: a trip, recipe, & race!](https://www.claresmith.me/whats-been-going-on-a-trip-recipe-race/) - Hey friends! Time for a quick recap of the past month! As per the usual, the beginning of summer is always crazy for me as we adjust to a new routine, attend baseball/softball games and practices, and try to enjoy all the last-minute invites to ice cream, cookouts, and sleepovers! If you follow me on - [I need your help!](https://www.claresmith.me/i-need-your-help/) - Friends. Admittedly, I've been a little off-line over the past 6-8 months. It's been a combination of things as to why, but as I sit here in the summer of 2016, I am ready to get focused again. Some of my close friends know that I have been trying to figure out how exactly to - [What to do on the day after a long weekend](https://www.claresmith.me/what-to-do-on-the-day-after-a-long-weekend/) - The day after a long holiday weekend. Many of you are feeling bloated, lethargic, and maybe a little guilty. "It's time to get back on the wagon", you say to yourself as you drink nothing but water this morning, plan for a salad at lunch, a banana for snack, and a sensible dinner followed by - [Do you eat your emotions?](https://www.claresmith.me/do-you-eat-your-emotions/) - I bet that title got your attention because every single one of us probably struggle with this depending on the season of life we're in! I mention this in the article, but I want to re-iterate that the suggestions I give are a very "shallow" and a mere distraction for when you have the tendency - [The Thanksgiving Table: What I want you to know about it](https://www.claresmith.me/the-thanksgiving-table-what-i-want-you-to-know-about-it/) - Hey friends! A big day for us Americans tomorrow...Thanksgiving! We often begin our "seasonal slump" of holiday eating now and it can definitely take a toll on our bodies. I get asked often what kind of tips I have for Thanksgiving so I thought I'd make a Facebook live video with them. But you know - [21 Days to a Hunger-Free and Healthy Holiday! (FREE download)](https://www.claresmith.me/21-days-to-a-hunger-free-and-healthy-holiday-free-download/) - Hi friends! It's time for another challenge---well, sort of. I used to lead this 3-week challenge live but I decided to make it available to you to do on your own. So I've got all the information for the "Hunger-Free & Healthy Holiday" challenge available for FREE download! Here are the basics: There’s no doubt - [Podcast Interview, an upcoming conference, and a giveaway!](https://www.claresmith.me/podcast-interview-an-upcoming-conference-and-a-giveaway/) - Hey! It's your blogger-who-doesn't-blog, friend! I'm hoping to remedy that in the near future but for now, if you want to keep in touch with me, be sure to follow me on Facebook or instagram! (both at "claresmithofficial") I've been using instagram stories a lot more which gives you a little more insight into my - [Resources: Exercise. Podcasts. Nutrition](https://www.claresmith.me/resources-exercise-podcasts-nutrition/) - I know there are some of you who are interested in resources--maybe some new ideas or a fresh place to motivate you! I totally understand that and honestly, I believe it's key to keeping in this health journey long-term. You've got to change things up, both physically and mentally! Here are some of my - [Ways to Sneak In Your "Soul Food": Scripture Memory Tips!](https://www.claresmith.me/ways-to-sneak-in-your-soul-food-scripture-memory-tips-2/) - Maybe "sneak in" isn't the right phrase to use, but sometimes that's what I feel like I'm doing as I do some of the tips I have listed below! Scripture memorization is very important in our lives and part of the "Living and Active" challenge is to memorize one new verse (while maintaining the rest!) - [Craving Conquerors: Guest post by Candace Cameron Bure](https://www.claresmith.me/craving-conquerors-guest-post-by-candace-cameron-bure-2/) - We have a very special guest today talking about our Key for Week 3 of the “Living and Active” challenge: craving conquerors! I put this blog post up every year even though she wrote it a few years back. It's just so good! Candace Cameron Bure’s biography is filled with many many accomplishments, fame and excitement, - [My favorite things of 2017 (Christmas gift guide!)](https://www.claresmith.me/my-favorite-things-of-2017-christmas-gift-guide/) - Hey all! I thought I would compile a few of MY favorite things that I love to help you with your Christmas list. If you are anything like me, the older you get, the harder it is to tell people what you want, however there are things that would be awesome to receive that you - [Prayer, journaling, and fasting: Why we need them, how to do it, and how I incorporate them!](https://www.claresmith.me/prayer-journaling-and-fasting-why-we-need-them-how-to-do-it-and-how-i-incorporate-them/) - The first step in our new series, "Your Second New Year" is to take some time in prayer, journaling and perhaps, fasting before the Lord. I want to give you all some info about how this may look for you and answer some questions in regards to fasting. I mentioned last week on my instagram - [Your Second New Year: First things first! (FREE resource download)](https://www.claresmith.me/your-second-new-year-first-things-first-free-resource-download/) - I am so excited that many of you are joining me for the new series, "Your Second New Year!" I was telling some of my close friends who've been walking with me through the brainstorming and creation of this process that hearing your excitement has really spurred me onto making this series everything you need.I - [Your Second New Year: How to create your vision board!](https://www.claresmith.me/your-second-new-year-how-to-create-your-vision-board/) - Welcome back to our next post in the "Your Second New Year" series! I was able to get on Facebook and do a live video last week. I put it up on youtube so you could catch it there. You can hear a little about why I started this series, some of the personal challenges - [Your Second New Year: Eliminate In Order To Motivate](https://www.claresmith.me/your-second-new-year-eliminate-in-order-to-motivate/) - I hope you are well into the creation of your vision board, if not totally finished with it! I started mine last weekend and still need to tie up a few things. I spent some time on Saturday with it and was surprised at how emotional of a process it was for me. I think - [Your Second New Year: Now What?](https://www.claresmith.me/your-second-new-year-now-what/) - We are done with "Your Second New Year" and I hope that it was of some encouragement to you! I know that for many of you, the nature of it being a busy back-to-school time of year made it difficult for you to follow along with each step of the process, but even if you - [When you can't put your finger on your funk](https://www.claresmith.me/when-you-cant-put-your-finger-on-your-funk/) - Funk: a state of paralyzing fear; a depressed state of mind; slump Are you familiar with a funk? Have you ever had one? A couple weeks ago I took to my instagram stories to see if any of you had. This initiated from a conversation I had that morning with a girlfriend who stated she was in - [Christmas Gift Guide: Clare's Favorites for 2018!](https://www.claresmith.me/christmas-gift-guide-clares-favorites-for-2018/) - Hey all! I am popping in here this weekend to let you know some of my favorite things! I've been doing this for the past couple years now and have had a number of you tell me how helpful it's been. Some items you will see on repeat because, well, they are just that good - [The 7th "Living + Active" Challenge: Week 1 {Tied Together}](https://www.claresmith.me/the-7th-living-active-challenge-week-1-tied-together/) - Wow! We have so many of you ready to dive into this challenge. I am praying for you all often throughout the day, so know that you are not in this alone. Let’s not waste anymore time! There’s A LOT of info in this post to print and read today, so stay with me! Grand - [The 7th "Living + Active" Week 3 {Craving Conquerors} + 2nd Check-In](https://www.claresmith.me/the-7th-living-active-week-3-craving-conquerors-2nd-check-in/) - Welcome to week 3! I love this testimony from last week. Time to check in from week 2, then we will move onto week 3 info. (If you can't see the form below, click this link!) Loading... Now, let’s get to Week 3! Remember, don't forget about your soul food and focuses from - ["Living + Active" Let-Down: Now What?](https://www.claresmith.me/living-active-let-down-now-what/) - I can't believe I'm already writing this blog post! The 5 weeks flew by (at least for me!) and it just goes to show that your life will continue whether you workout or not! Here is a video from last year that will talk more specifically into being Marathon Minded and more info on what - [Mat Routine](https://www.claresmith.me/mat-routine/) - Climb the Rope - Extend both legs into the air while laying on your back. Lift your upper body and reach up as if you are climbing a rope. "Grab it" with the right hand, then the left hand. That is 1 rep. Do 2-3 sets of 8-15. CHALLENGE: Reach higher and higher as if - [Running the Race {part 2}](https://www.claresmith.me/running-the-race-part-2/) - (see part 1 here) Brad was starting a new journey. His life was forever rocked one evening. From that moment on, he was starting a new path. He was looking for support. For knowledge, wisdom and more time. Just a little more time. October 10th I felt so strongly that I needed to run my - [It's Not About the Weight](https://www.claresmith.me/its-not-about-the-weight/) - Have you ever thought that if you are skinny, then you must be healthy? Unfortunately there is a problem with this statement---it’s not true!! Let me propose to you a new way of thinking... Being healthy has nothing to do with your pants size or weight, but more to do with your overall being. One - [A peek into my Pilates class!](https://www.claresmith.me/a-peek-into-my-pilates-class/) - Today's blog is a shout-out to my wonderful Pilates class! I've been teaching at a local university for the past 4 years and have had many of these students for the past 3. They were a blessing to my Tuesday and Thursday evenings. We laughed, cried and worked our cores together! The students in all - [Breaking up with my maternity shirts](https://www.claresmith.me/breaking-up-with-my-maternity-shirts/) - (I bet you think you know where I'm going with this, don't you? Let's see if you're right!) The time had come. I had my second child. Four months had passed and I was still wearing some shirts that I wore in my pregnancy. One reason was because I was dealing with my larger chest, - [Winner of Reshaping It All Giveaway (July 2011)](https://www.claresmith.me/winner-of-reshaping-it-all-giveaway-july-2011/) - Thanks so much for stopping by the blog last week to check out Candace's recipe! I'd love to get feedback if you made her dish! Also, you all gave me some great ideas as to what I need to put on the blog next. Many were things floating in my head already, so you definitely - [Haters](https://www.claresmith.me/haters/) - Haters. Ever met one? They are in every area of life and health is no different. You are gonna meet one soon if you haven't already. Haters say things like this: ♦ "Don't you know running is bad for your body?" ♦ "That's great that you are exercising so much, but I just don't have - [4 Exercise Warnings You Need To Know](https://www.claresmith.me/4-exercise-warnings/) - It's a rare time when I will say that exercising is bad for you. So count yourself lucky that I'm putting "exercise" and "warning" in the same sentence today. I've made a few observations lately about what exercising or getting in shape has done to some people. I thought I'd bring them up because I - [The Facebook Factor](https://www.claresmith.me/the-facebook-factor/) - Facebook. Ahh yes. It's a term that defines the 2000's. You say "facebook" and you'll get a variety of opinions on it. Many times I shrink back when I tell someone I have a facebook account, as it's begun to have such a negative connotation! Facebook can do one of two things for you (and - [It's a Bloggy Bash at Relevant 11!!](https://www.claresmith.me/its-a-bloggy-bash-at-relevant-11/) - I am at Relevant 11 and am having a blast!! (and the conference hasn't even started!) I'm rooming with Courtney at Women Living Well, Janelle from Comfy in the Kitchen, Darlene from Time Warp Wife, Joy from Gracefull Mama, and Ruth from The Better Mom!! Check our craziness below!!! Be sure to join the Blog - [I'm guest posting at Time Warp Wife!](https://www.claresmith.me/im-guest-posting-at-time-warp-wife/) - My lovely friend, Darlene from Time Warp Wife is in the middle of a "31 days of love challenge"! I'm guest posting today and talking about how we can encourage our husbands in the area of health. Have you ever considered that a way to love on them? Kory and I after his first race---a - ["Every Body Matters" Book Review and GIVEAWAY!!](https://www.claresmith.me/every-body-matters-book-review-and-giveaway/) - Come back next week for a new "New Move Monday". Today, we have a book giveaway and review! Have you ever asked yourself these questions? Is it a sin to be overweight? If my body is going to die anyway, why take care of it? Does my physical life have any connection with my spiritual - ["Every Body Matters" Giveaway WINNERS!!](https://www.claresmith.me/every-body-matters-giveaway-winners/) - We have our WINNERS of "Every Body Matters" giveaway!! (I used random.org) Lisa (www.john1010.blogspot.com) Desiree Sumner Indy (www.indyalmeida.blogspot.com) Ladies, please contact me at clare@peak313.com with your addresses!! For those of you who didn't win a free copy, be sure to check out Amazon to purchase it or until December 12th, you can get it for - [31.3 Jump {Video Introduction}](https://www.claresmith.me/31-3-jump-video-intro/) - Here is a video of me explaining a little more of 31.3 Jump! (I didn't mention but need to make clear, that you should have some sort of a plan of how you are going to accomplish 31.3. Each of you will have different guidelines and goals. Pray about it and them commit to what - [It's My Blog's 1st Birthday!!](https://www.claresmith.me/its-my-blogs-1st-birthday/) - Today is my 1 year blogging anniversary! The blog has taken up so much of my time but it has turned into a great passion of mine. There are days that I am itching to get to the computer to get my thoughts down or to share an experience that I've had. I could not - [{31.3 Jump} Week 3](https://www.claresmith.me/31-3-jump-week-3/) - Woot! We are on week 3! 1.) Time to check in! How did you do on week 2? Go to our online message board and spill it! LOL! 2.) Check out this week's printable! I have a video to go with it that will be helpful in understanding the exercises for the printable. I've had - [31.3 Jump: Week 3 *Rah Rah Rah* & Giveaway!](https://www.claresmith.me/31-3-jump-week-3-rah-rah-rah-giveaway/) - It's our mid-week update and week 3 of the {31.3 Jump}! Please be sure to check in online with how you did last week! ♥♥♥ Oh, I've got a special surprise for you today, ladies!!! I know that for many of you, reality has set in. It's week 3 and you've given up---or you are about - [Pinterest, Pictures and Your Self-Esteem](https://www.claresmith.me/pinterest-pictures-and-your-self-esteem/) - Pinterest. Ahhh. Isn't it beautiful? It has given women (and men!) everywhere a refresh on life! I've really enjoyed setting up my boards and finding cute, practical things for my life. I think Pinterest is "eye candy" in it's best form. I look for many things to put up on facebook or twitter from Pinterest. - [Valentine's Day Dinner & "Firing up the Passion"!](https://www.claresmith.me/valentines-day-dinner-firing-up-the-passion/) - Our church hosted a Valentine's Day dinner this weekend that my husband and I attended. We sat with our friends Keith and Courtney (from Women Living Well) and 2 other wonderful couples. We also had the privilege of listening to speaker and author, Dr. David Clarke. The topic of the night was "Firing up the Passion" - [My meeting with ex-Victoria Secret model, Kylie Bisutti](https://www.claresmith.me/my-meeting-with-ex-victoria-secret-model-kylie-bisutti/) - Tuesday night I had the wonderful opportunity of meeting with ex-Victoria Secret model, Kylie Bisutti! She has been in the press a lot lately regarding her decision to quit working for Victoria Secret because she wanted to honor God and her husband with her body. (Read more about her testimony here) Kylie had been in - [What My Bad Habit Has To Do With Yours](https://www.claresmith.me/what-my-bad-habit-has-to-do-with-yours/) - I'm coming clean today with my bad habit. I've had it as long as I can remember and I've never gained victory over it. I bite my fingernails. I can't remember a time in my life when I haven't. I do think that I've gotten BETTER at it, but as the pictures show, they certainly - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-3/) - It's time for another installment of Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays!! Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. I am a sucker for cute workout clothes which - [How Pilates helps me to be hospitable](https://www.claresmith.me/how-pilates-helps-me-to-be-hospitable/) - I have to be honest, hospitality isn't one of my greatest gifts. I think my husband wishes it was judging by the number of people he wants to have over, but I get caught up in so many things! But I found something that has helped me be more hospitable, without blinking an eye ---pilates!! - [When "Me First" Makes Sense](https://www.claresmith.me/when-me-first-makes-sense/) - I was flying Friday to Savannah and heard the same spiel that every flight attendant/plane recording says... "In the event of a decompression, an oxygen mask will automatically appear in front of you..... If you are traveling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask on first, and then assist the other person." Watch - [Did I "kick it up a notch" in April? (& my May plans)](https://www.claresmith.me/did-i-kick-it-up-a-notch-in-april-my-may-plans/) - At the beginning of April, I gave myself some new goals to achieve for my workouts and eating to "kick it up a notch". I wanted to give you guys an update on it now that we are ending (WHAT?!) the month!! ♥♥♥ ♦ Daily protein shake (5 days/wk) Did I hit goal? Yes! I - [What I Want to Teach My Kids About Health & Fitness](https://www.claresmith.me/what-i-want-to-teach-my-kids-about-health-fitness/) - A recent statistic came out stating that by 2030, 42% of adults will be obese. By 2030, my children will be in their 20's and could possible be a part of that stat. That scares me! I want to do my best RIGHT NOW to teach my kids right habits and mentalities about health & - [Rock it. Work it. Love it. Fridays](https://www.claresmith.me/rock-it-work-it-love-it-fridays-12/) - I took off last Friday. (Bet you didn't even notice?!) But I'm back today! Rock it: Things you can wear, stuff with hair, fashion etc Work it: Things you can cook, create, make or do!! Love it: Articles, blogs, music etc that I love! ♥♥♥ Rock it. I can't resist fashion posts! SORRY!! So when I see these - [A Pinterest Inspired "Belle" Birthday Party! (Chip costume included!)](https://www.claresmith.me/a-pinterest-inspired-belle-birthday-party-chip-costume-included/) - I have no idea if you are interested in this type of thing, so I apologize in advance if you aren't! However, I thought I'd give you a little glimpse into my family life!! My little girl, Lila, turned 3 on Sunday. She wanted a Princess Belle birthday party ever since she watched "Beauty and - [5 Ways When Exercise Is More Than Just Exercise](https://www.claresmith.me/5-ways-when-exercise-is-more-than-just-exercise/) - Multi-tasking is such a double edged sword. I used to be much better and more efficient at it but ever since I've had my kids and the craziness factor has increased, I'm not as sharp as I used to be! However, I'm always looking for areas in my life where I can make the most - [How I Maintain My Ideal Weight & Size](https://www.claresmith.me/how-i-maintain-my-ideal-weight-size/) - Let me start out with this. I typically HATE talking about weight and scales. It is definitely not the best or only measure of how healthy and fit you are. HOWEVER, I see a lot of weight yo-yoing with my students. I get lots of emails from my blog readers too, telling me that they - [4 Ways To Give Your Daughter A Complex About Her Looks](https://www.claresmith.me/4-ways-to-give-your-daughter-a-complex-about-her-looks/) - Disclaimer: My daughter is only 3 years old. I have no idea how she'll turn out and if she'll end up with a "complex" or not. These are just things I've seen from dealing with women of all ages and their struggles with their image over the past 10 years. Does this mean that if - [Why I'll Never Be "The Skinniest" And Why I'm OK With That](https://www.claresmith.me/why-ill-never-be-the-skinniest-and-why-im-ok-with-that/) - Maybe it's just a matter of semantics, but I'll never be "the skinniest" gal around...and I'm ok with that. (See definition below) (Source) You can walk into any gym, store, church or school and find a lot of girls who weigh less and wear smaller clothes than me. This has bothered me in the past. - [Hope For The {running} Haters](https://www.claresmith.me/hope-for-the-running-haters/) - The 2012 Summer Olympics are here! Yay!! I plan on spending some time watching all the awesome athletes. To kick it off, I have a high school friend of mine shedding some light on her favorite sport--and one we'll soon be seeing a lot of--swimming! Mandy has a great perspective and sense of humor. She - [The Beautiful and Unique Olympic Body](https://www.claresmith.me/the-beautiful-and-unique-olympic-body/) - I had been thinking about this for a few days so when I mentioned it on facebook and a few of you had interest, I decided to jump right on it! ♥♥♥ If you are anything like me, you are totally inspired by the body types of the Olympic athletes. They are AMAZING and the - [Get that gold, girl.](https://www.claresmith.me/get-that-gold-girl/) - If there's one thing that has been consistent in talking about the Olympics, it's that they've been inspiring. They've touched each of us differently and have caused some of us to do more than just sit in awe. It's caused some of us to go for the gold. For some, it's inspired you to try something new. - [9 Years of "Wedded Bliss"??](https://www.claresmith.me/9-years-of-wedded-bliss/) - This week, my husband and I celebrated 9 years of marriage. I posted a picture along with this phrase on my personal facebook page... I got to thinking about this and thought to myself, "What a horrible phrase to describe our past 9 years?!" I feel some sort of responsibility to always speak truth and - [Bacon, Coffee, Cake Pops and Blogging {Allume 2012}](https://www.claresmith.me/bacon-coffee-cake-pops-and-blogging-allume-2012/) - Hey all! I've mentioned a few times about my trip to Allume last week so I figured it was a great time to let you in a little on it! I had a wonderful time with real life girlfriends, online girlfriends and new friends, too! It was quite a bit of time to be away - [Run4Kids: Where A Heart for Orphans & A Love for Running Meet](https://www.claresmith.me/run4kids-where-a-heart-for-orphans-a-love-for-running-meet/) - Sunday, November 4th was, "Orphan Sunday", a Sunday in which churches and Christians "celebrate adoption, foster care and global initiatives that reveal God's heart.*" There is an estimated 153 million orphans worldwide*...a number that should blow us away and cause us to turn internally asking God, "What would you require of us?" "Defend the - ["LET.IT.GO" Book Giveaway!!](https://www.claresmith.me/let-it-go-book-giveaway/) - It's a Thursday and what better way to start your day than with a GIVEAWAY! The amazing and talented, Karen Ehman came out with a new book and 6 week Bible Study, Tuesday: LET.IT.GO: How To Stop Running The Show and Start Walking the Faith. I had a chance to review and read this book earlier - [10 Tips For Your Turkey Day Tummy and...Winners!](https://www.claresmith.me/10-tips-for-your-turkey-day-tummy-and-winners/) - Hey all! It's Thanksgiving already! AHH! Many tend to binge on this day and eat everything out of house and home. I'm not here to tell you how and what to eat...eat what you want, but be prepared for the consequences! Here are my tips for eating at big parties and holidays! 1.) Start the - [Fear, Faith, and What We Should Do About It](https://www.claresmith.me/fear-faith-and-what-we-should-do-about-it/) - I posted these thoughts on my facebook page Sunday night and wanted to share them with you who don't follow facebook, or didn't catch it! The words, for me, were more of a declaration that I needed to make out loud, even though I believed it with my heart. From the response I got, I'm not - [Fit Resources to Jumpstart Your Year!](https://www.claresmith.me/fit-resources-to-jumpstart-your-year/) - So, since I reneged on you all by doing a challenge here on the blog, I feel obliged to give you a list of other people who can help you out this month! The truth is, it's not that hard to find health support groups right now as many people are looking to shed a - [Life's "supposed to's" vs. Life's "reality"](https://www.claresmith.me/lifes-supposed-tos-vs-lifes-reality/) - I am notorious for putting up quick thoughts on my facebook page. These are things that come to me that God has laid on my heart through the day, to encourage and uplift you. However, many of you don't have facebook, or get a chance to see them, so I think I am going to - [FITspiration Friday: Fighting and Disabling](https://www.claresmith.me/fitspiration-friday-fighting-and-disabling/) - What's up party people! :) I think I've told you all before that I really prefer facebook as my method of encouraging, motviating, and teaching you. Sometimes writing a blog post seems daunting to me. Not sure why, but it does! ANYWAY---I'm going to start taking some of these "Facebook FITspirations" and share them with - [febYOUary: Week 1: Physical Assessment](https://www.claresmith.me/febyouary-week-1-physical-assessment/) - So here we are at week 1 of "febYOUary: an 18 day guide connecting YOU to your health". This week will be the most tedious of the weeks that we will be progressing through as it will take day to day attention. Remember, I'm only asking that you do this for 7 days, but if - [FITspiration Friday: Being "hemmed in" (and a new exercise!)](https://www.claresmith.me/fitspiration-friday-being-hemmed-in-and-a-new-exercise/) - FITspiration Friday is here, but first.... I'm over at Roo today giving you a new upper body exercise to add to your routine! Be sure to click over and find out how to do it! And now, some thoughts I had today.... My heart has been burdened the past few weeks for so many of - [A "Mulan" Inspired 4th Birthday Party!](https://www.claresmith.me/a-mulan-inspired-4th-birthday-party/) - Hey all! Today's post is letting you into a little bit of my life. My daughter, Lila, turns 4 this week and we had her "Mulan" inspired party this weekend. (Last year she had a "Belle" inspired party!) For the record--my son gets parties like this too, I just never get a chance to get - [The "Women Living Well" Conference Weekend!](https://www.claresmith.me/the-women-living-well-conference-weekend/) - I had the awesome opportunity to be a part of the "Women Living Well" conference this weekend! It was fantastic for so many reasons! If you follow me on instagram, then you probably have seen some pictures of all the fun we had! Here are a few pictures from the weekend! (captions below pics!) - [FITspiration Friday: One Step at a Time](https://www.claresmith.me/fitspiration-friday-one-step-at-a-time/) - It's been a while since I've had a "FITspiration" post on here. (I do them on facebook all the time!) Thought I'd share a graphic and thought I had last night. ♥♥♥ There are days when you just need to tell yourself this.. And today was one of those days for me.. In multiple areas! - [My Summer Pinterest Projects!](https://www.claresmith.me/my-summer-pinterest-projects/) - This is not a typical post for me, but in light of letting you all into my real life, and understanding that fitness is just a PART of my actual day, I thought I'd share this! I got inspired this summer and went to town on our house! We had neglected closets, clothes, and so - [Some FITspiration....& the WLW Webcasts are HERE!](https://www.claresmith.me/some-fitspiration-the-wlw-webcasts-are-here/) - Hey all! Just a little mid-week check in and an important announcement for you! First off, make sure that you check-in if you are participating in the "Living and Active" challenge! Secondly, here's a favorite quote of mine from one of my favorite authors, Gary Thomas, in his book, "Pure Pleasure". I put this on - [Struggling In Your Marriage? Watch This! (WLW Webcast)](https://www.claresmith.me/struggling-in-your-marriage-watch-this-wlw-webcast/) - Here's a fun fact. I am not all about fitness or healthy living. It's not the only thing that I am passionate about, nor the only thing I immerse myself in! The truth is--there are a handful of topics that I am JUST as concerned about for my life and yours and MARRIAGE is high - [It's HERE! My keynote on HEALTH for the "Women Living Well" Conference!](https://www.claresmith.me/its-here-my-keynote-on-health-for-the-women-living-well-conference/) - I hope you've been able to catch all of the keynote addresses from the Women Living Well conference! We had the conference in August in front of 250 people, but my friend Courtney intentionally had them taped and edited so that those of you who couldn't come were able to view them! This week is - [My interview on a radio podcast with "Clutter Interrupted"!](https://www.claresmith.me/my-interview-on-a-radio-podcast-with-clutter-interrupted/) - I got an email a couple weeks ago from 2 fantastic ladies from the website, "Clutter Interrupted" to be interviewed for their radio podcast. They had me at "clutter", as that's how my house (and brain) feel most of the time! I was so excited to chat with these gals. I invite you to come - [The "Right-Now" Resolution: 6 Ways to Share Kindness On-The-Spot](https://www.claresmith.me/the-right-now-resolution-6-ways-to-share-kindness-on-the-spot/) - Part of my resolution planning has been considering myself. My goals. My desires. My problems. Many resolutions are self-focused, as they should be, but as I was processing it, I couldn't help but think if there were things I could do that would help others out immediately. These things have been on my heart over - [2014 "Dream it. Do it." Vision Board {Health}](https://www.claresmith.me/2014-dream-it-do-it-vision-board-health/) - We are off and running into 2014! I am so very excited that many of you have gotten behind the vision boards that we will be working on this month. Honestly, I wasn't exactly sure how people who like the idea, so I'm pleasantly surprised that I've got some people doing it with me this - [2014 “Dream it. Do it.” Vision Board {Finances}](https://www.claresmith.me/2014-dream-it-do-it-vision-board-finances/) - Moving onto week 3 of our 2014 "Dream it. Do it." Vision Boards! So far we've covered our health, our faith, and now we are moving onto our finances. I included finances in our dreaming and planning because it is such an important thing to steward! There can be so much freedom in your life - [Good Morning Girls "Intentionally Focused" (Health) & A Perspective Change](https://www.claresmith.me/good-morning-girls-intentionally-focused-health-a-perspective-change/) - Today I'm guest posting over at the Good Morning Girls website. They just started a new study called, "Intentionally Focused", and over the next 3 months, we'll be reviewing how we can be intentional in many areas of our lives and you guessed it--health is one of those! My dear friend, Angela, who leads up - [When You Feel Like You Don’t Measure Up](https://www.claresmith.me/when-you-feel-like-you-dont-measure-up/) - Hi friends! I have a guest post and a giveaway for you today!! GIVEAWAY CLOSED: FRIDAY FEBRUARY 14TH ♥♥♥ a guest post from Renee Swope Do you ever feel like you don’t quite measure up? Maybe you think you’re not smart enough, pretty enough, thin enough or as godly as you think you ought to be. - [Winners, FREE gift (today only!), and Friday Wrap-Up!](https://www.claresmith.me/winners-free-gift-today-only-and-friday-wrap-up/) - Happy Friday!! This post contains lots of fun stuff in it, so hang in there! First off, let's check out the 2 winners from the giveaway from yesterday! The 2 winners of Renee Swope's "A Confident Heart Devotional" are: Amy (lifefollowfaith.blogspot.com) Christina (comment left at 10:23am) I have both of your email addresses and have - [Temple Talk (GMG Guest Post) and a Local Conference!](https://www.claresmith.me/temple-talk-gmg-guest-post-and-a-local-conference/) - Hi friends! I have been going through the Good Morning Girls study on being intentionally focused and it has been such a blessing to me over the past couple months. This week, the focus has been on our health and Angela graciously had me on to guest post about it! Please be sure to check - [5 Tips for Getting Healthy While Living with Chronic Pain (Guest Post)](https://www.claresmith.me/5-tips-for-getting-healthy-while-living-with-chronic-pain-guest-post/) - **Giveaway Closed!** I get lots of questions and emails about chronic pain and how to workout and stay healthy through it. I am not able to answer these with much wisdom as I am not personally experiencing it, however, my friend Stacy from "Finding Purpose in the Pain" knows! I met Stacy from when I - [The Word and Work-Out: Week 2 Check-In (Why Easter Matters)](https://www.claresmith.me/the-word-and-work-out-week-2-check-in-why-easter-matters/) - Over 150 and you checked in from last week! Woo hoo! So proud of you and I hope that this week has been just as good for you all! Before we get to the check-in, I want to let you know about 2 things! 1) My friend Darlene from Time-Warp Wife is offering her ebook, "The - [The Word and Work-Out: Week 4/FINAL Check-In (Why Easter Matters)](https://www.claresmith.me/the-word-and-work-out-week-4final-check-in-why-easter-matters/) - Yay! We've made it through all 4 weeks of our "The Word and Work-Out" challenge! Before we get to the check-in, I want to share with you a post I wrote for The Better Mom! "Balance" has been the focus on The Better Mom for the month of April so I wrote about the key - ["You are Loved"--WINNERS (and a tip for Facebook Followers)](https://www.claresmith.me/you-are-loved-winners-and-a-tip-for-facebook-followers/) - Happy Friday! First off, if Facebook is acting for you anything like it's acting for me, then you know how fickle it has been lately in regards to what you see on your timeline. There are blogs or companies that I have "liked" that I never see their updates on anymore! There is one easy - [Introducing "Overcomer Outreach"](https://www.claresmith.me/introducing-overcomer-outreach/) - Taking a quick break from the "Living and Active" challenge to let you know about an awesome new ministry and site that launched this week from my friend Janelle! (You might know her from Comfy in the Kitchen!) She is currently in her second year at Malone University obtaining a M.A. in Clinical Counseling. She - [How I meal plan](https://www.claresmith.me/how-i-meal-plan/) - I get asked a lot about what kind of things we eat in our house. I spend a bit of time each week (about 20-30 minutes) thinking about it because I feel it's very important. Meal planning is interesting process and one I've grown to enjoy. I find much fulfillment in the time I spend - [Article: "Experts shun fat-free diets for low-fat ones"](https://www.claresmith.me/article-experts-shun-fat-free-diets-for-low-fat-ones/) - To provide a little more detail and support for my article I just wrote about healthy eating, check out this one. Pulled it out of our local newspaper a few weeks ago and found it laying in a pile of papers this morning. Good timing I'd say!! "Experts shun fat-free diets for low-fat ones" - [The Shamrock Shake!!](https://www.claresmith.me/the-shamrock-shake/) - Oh ladies. Tis the season for rainy days, March Madness and SHAMROCK SHAKES!!! Now I know some of you will want to shoot me for this post. Of course you can totally stop reading now if you don't want the image you have of the Shamrock Shake tarnished. But I wanted to provide some food - [The "Try It" Challenge Intro and Vlog!!](https://www.claresmith.me/the-try-it-challenge-intro-and-vlog/) - "Piggybacking one new habit with a regular routine is a great way to introduce a new change." From "Reshaping it all" by Candace Cameron Bure and Darlene Schacht One of my goals (if you want to call it that) of having a blog is to teach you and introduce you to new things. I'd like - ["Try It" Challenge {Week 1}](https://www.claresmith.me/try-it-challenge-week-1/) - Thank you all for your support and enthusiasm from last week! I know you've been waiting with great anticipation to know what week 1 of the "Try It" Challenge would bring you and here you go......... First off, greek yogurt is different than usual yogurt in the fact that in greek yogurt, they strain more - ["Try It" Challenge {Week 2}](https://www.claresmith.me/try-it-challenge-week-2/) - We are on week 2 of Peak 313's first challenge! I hope you enjoyed last week's challenge, introducing Greek Yogurt into your diet and praying for your Pastors and church. Please, keep those up as we do the other weeks if you enjoyed them. I'd love to help you create some new healthy habits! Watch - [“Try It” Challenge {Week 3}](https://www.claresmith.me/try-it-challenge-week-3/) - Welcome back to week 3 of the "Try It" Challenge! If you've missed the other 2 weeks, check them out here! I won't have you wait too much longer for our new item for the week. I have a little guy to help me show you! See below!! There are so many ways that green - [4 Ways to Diversify Family Dinner to Your Healthy Diet](https://www.claresmith.me/4-ways-to-diversify-family-dinner-to-your-healthy-diet/) - I get asked often if I feed the same dinner to my family that I eat for the night. The answer, in short, is yes. I don't have any desire to make multiple dinners each evening plus I think it is good for my family (especially kids) to be exposed to healthy and different foods - [Car-Friendly "Clean" Snacks!](https://www.claresmith.me/car-friendly-clean-snacks/) - We are right in the middle of the summer which means many of you are going on vacation! And for many of us, vacation means car rides! Whether it's a day trip to a museum a few hours away, or 12+ hours to the beach, logging time in the car can present it's challenges especially - [Put down the candy! (or should you?) What to do about those Halloween treats](https://www.claresmith.me/put-down-the-candy-or-should-you-what-to-do-about-those-halloween-treats/) - It's the day after Halloween and chances are you are sitting with large amounts of candy at your disposal. The truth is, the candy probably hasn't been sitting here since yesterday thanks to early purchases and candy bowls here and there, so today is not the first day you are dealing with the temptation. I - [Healthy Eating: Redefined](https://www.claresmith.me/healthy-eating-redefined/) - I was ready to type out a recipe for the blog when the thought occurred to me. I really need to define what I deem healthy because it may not be how others define it. I'm very careful to pair the term "healthy" with my recipes since I am not a registered dietitian or nutritionist. - [2015 Spring Clean EATing Challenge: Info and Prep](https://www.claresmith.me/2015-spring-clean-eating-challenge-info-and-prep/) - Hey friends! So I almost didn't do this challenge even though we've done it the past 2 years. I've been so busy with the new website, speaking, and a whole host of other things that I honestly didn't put much thought into it, but when I asked you all on Facebook if you had interest--well, - [2015 Spring Clean EATing Challenge: My Meal Plan](https://www.claresmith.me/2015-spring-clean-eating-challenge-my-meal-plan/) - Hey! Just popping in really quick here to give you what I'll be eating for this week for The "Spring Clean EATing" challenge! I shared this last year and I think it was helpful for some of you. I am a little leery about posting it just because I do not want you guys to do - [2015 Spring Clean EATing: Check in...and what now?](https://www.claresmith.me/2015-spring-clean-eating-check-in-and-what-now/) - We just finished up the spring clean eating challenge. I'm sure it was an interesting experience for many of you, especially if it was the first time for you to do something like this! I hope that you all learned a few things about yourself as you went through this week. One of my favorite - [2015 Spring Clean EATing WINNERS! ( & a weekend re-cap!)](https://www.claresmith.me/2015-spring-clean-eating-winners-a-weekend-re-cap/) - Just a quick note to share with you the 4 winners of the "Against All Grain" cookbooks! Thank you so much for sending me feedback from the Spring Clean EATing Challenge! Here are some of my favorite comments! "This was a wonderful experience. Thank you for leading! I truly feel stronger on all levels. :)" - [Your Season of Life May Have Changed but God's Purpose For You Has Not! (Video)](https://www.claresmith.me/your-season-of-life-may-have-changed-but-gods-purpose-for-you-has-not-video/) - Here we are rounding out the final week of the Take it Back challenge! I have appreciated each one of you who have reached out to me with how God has been working through you during these weeks. Our final week's focus was on our purpose, mission and calling in life. I presented the case - [7th "Living + Active" Challenge: GRAND PRIZE Winners & Testimonies](https://www.claresmith.me/7th-living-active-challenge-grand-prize-winners-testimonies/) - My favorite part of the challenge...testimonies and grand prize winners! Let's check out some of the things you all said. "I enjoyed the challenge so much. For me, knowing I am accountable to others made me do many things first thing in the morning especially scripture reading. It seems if I don't do it first - [The 7th "Living + Active" Challenge: FINAL Check-In!](https://www.claresmith.me/the-7th-living-active-challenge-final-check-in/) - This is it! Your final checkpoint! I am so proud of those of you who have stayed with us the whole 5 weeks! If you need to catch up on a check-in, or if you are new to this challenge and want to see all the weeks and verses, then be sure to check this - [The 7th “Living + Active” Week 5 {Marathon Minded} + 4th Check-In](https://www.claresmith.me/the-7th-living-active-week-5-marathon-minded-4th-check-in/) - This is it! The final week of the Living and Active Challenge! Now tell me that didn't just fly by?! We will have one more checkpoint next week, so be sure to do that in order to be eligible for 1 of the 3 grand prizes! Here is a testimony from week 3! I haven't had - [The 7th “Living + Active” Week 4 {Heart Healthy} + 3rd Check-In](https://www.claresmith.me/the-7th-living-active-week-4-heart-healthy-3rd-check-in/) - Time for week 3′s check-in! Please fill out the quick form below. IMPORTANT: If you can't see form, then please click on this link to fill it out! Here's a testimony from week 2! REMEMBER: In order to be eligible for the GRAND PRIZE, then you have to fill this form out EACH week, meeting - [The 7th “Living + Active” Challenge: Week 2 {Daily Dedicated} + 1st Check-In](https://www.claresmith.me/the-7th-living-active-challenge-week-2-daily-dedicated-1st-check-in/) - Welcome back! You made it through week 1 and I am so proud of you! I need to do some admin stuff before we get to this week's new focus, scripture memory, and our first check-in. I also want to link to two different posts: if you are looking for some resources for exercise, podcasts - [Living & Active FAQ's](https://www.claresmith.me/living-active-faqs/) - I thought I would put up this post about some frequently asked questions about the challenge in hopes that it might answer some of your questions! Here is the first post with the announcement and initial info! If this is your first email from me, make sure you check out this page for all the - [Introducing the New Year "Living & Active" Challenge & a pre-challenge giveaway!](https://www.claresmith.me/introducing-the-new-year-living-active-challenge-a-pre-challenge-giveaway/) - Hello and welcome to 2019! I am doing something a little different this year by starting the new year off with...the Living and Active challenge! This will be year 7 of it and I have only held it during September/October, but I didn't do it in 2018 (because I did "Your Second New Year" instead) - [Your Second New Year: Make your space work for your chase](https://www.claresmith.me/your-second-new-year-make-your-space-work-for-your-chase/) - We've made it to the end of this series that has hopefully gotten you refocused for "Your Second New Year!" I hope that you feel challenged, focused, clear, and motivated to move forward in the areas the Lord is working on in your life! The final step is for us to create an environment conducive - ["febYOUary" Re-Cap: What I Learned and What I'm Doing About It](https://www.claresmith.me/febyouary-re-cap-what-i-learned-and-what-im-doing-about-it/) - Thanks to all of you who joined me in the "febYOUary" challenge this month! I told you before that I was wanting to do the challenge because I was curious about a few things in my life. Here are some notes I made! 1.) I eat WAY too much sugar! You know how you KNOW - [febYOUary: Week 3: Spiritual Assessment](https://www.claresmith.me/febyouary-week-3-spiritual-assessment/) - We are on to our final week of "febYOUary". For those of you hanging with us, I pray that this has been a bit of an eye opener for you in regards to your health and the unique twists that your personality, life, and interests bring! If you've been following me for any amount of - [febYOUary: Week 2: Personality Assessment](https://www.claresmith.me/febyouary-week-2-personality-assessment/) - We are moving on to week 2 of "febYOUary"! How are you doing with your physical journaling? I am doing it with you and WHEW! IT has been a bit of an exhausting process! I have found that I eat a LOT during the day! LOL! It's been good for me and I'm anxious to - [febYOUary: an 18 day guide connecting YOU with your health](https://www.claresmith.me/febyouary-an-18-day-guide-connecting-you-with-your-health/) - ** This is not a "live" series going on in 2014. This was done last year as a community on the site but will not be for 2014. You are more than welcome to do it on your own!** Many of you know that I took January off and didn't do much with the blog - [2015 Spring Clean EATing Challenge: Let's Go! (& some housekeeping!)](https://www.claresmith.me/2015-spring-clean-eating-challenge-lets-go-some-housekeeping/) - So here we are- the night before our challenge starts! I want to address a few things and leave you with a few words of encouragement! First off, let's talk about the end of the week treat. This does NOT have to be food-related! It's totally up to you as to what that is. - [2014 “Dream it. Do it.” Vision Board {Relationships} + Wrap-Up](https://www.claresmith.me/2014-dream-it-do-it-vision-board-relationships-wrap-up/) - We are onto our final week of the 2014 "Dream it. Do it." Vision Boards! I hope that this challenge proved to be as mind-clarifying and motivating for you as it has been for me! I have been encouraged by those of you who sent in pictures of your vision boards to me! Before we - [Feminine and Fit!](https://www.claresmith.me/feminine-and-fit/) - Being a girl and being into fitness is such a fun thing nowadays! There are so many ways to rock your workout look and still be feminine! I'm over at RooMag today discussing a few ways to add a feminine feel to your everyday exercise routine! - [A Quick, Full Body Workout Using a Jump Rope & Your Body!](https://www.claresmith.me/a-quick-full-body-workout-using-a-jump-rope-your-body/) - It will be really easy for you to forgo your workout over the next month, which is the last thing we need to be doing! A quick workout is actually a great way to keep yourself healthy and balance everything else you have to do. I created a full body workout for you using only - [Advice for the New Gym Goer](https://www.claresmith.me/advice-for-the-new-gym-goer/) - Have you ever joined a gym, then sat there wondering what in the world to do next? You aren't the only one! I've had a lot of people email, asking what they should do once they purchase that membership. Join me at The Better Mom to find out 4 things you should do once you - ["I'm in for the challenge...now what?"](https://www.claresmith.me/im-in-for-the-challenge-now-what/) - I am so excited at the participation this challenge is bringing! I thought I'd answer some common questions I keep seeing and also give you what you can do in preparation for Monday! ♥♥♥ Q: I signed up to get your emails. What else do I need to do to participate? A: Nothing! Just look - [At-Home Workout Recommendations](https://www.claresmith.me/at-home-workout-recommendations/) - There are so many ways we can access a personal training workout without actually going into a gym! I've got a few ways to tap into quick and easy sources (You don't always need a DVD!) along with some of my favorite DVD recommendations! Join me at Candace Cameron Bure's online magazine, RooMag today, to - [My #1 Suggestion to Get You Fit](https://www.claresmith.me/my-1-suggestion-to-get-you-fit/) - Strong claim, right? I wouldn't say it if I didn't believe it! Here it is...Group Exercise! I'm sure you think I'm slanted because I am a group fitness instructor. But the honest truth is, after surveying 8 years of classes, I've found group exercise to be one of the best motivators to get--and keep--people in - [5 Ways I'm "Kickin' It Up A Notch" in April](https://www.claresmith.me/5-ways-im-kickin-it-up-a-notch-in-april/) - I like to re-assess my fitness and health goals every few months. Being in the fitness industry and having a huge love of any and all things exercise related makes that a more attainable goal for me than for others. There is no ONE answer to your health problem (which can be very frustrating) but - [I crossed over to Crossfit...once](https://www.claresmith.me/i-crossed-over-to-crossfit-once/) - I attended my first Crossfit class on Saturday. My friend Beth has been going and I have been dying to try it out! They have a free Saturday class, so I laced up my shoes, grabbed the advil and walked into "the box" with excitement! If you aren't sure what Crossfit is, here's a commercial - [{31.3 Jump} Now What?](https://www.claresmith.me/31-3-jump-now-what/) - We have hit the end of our January challenge, the 31.3 Jump! I'd like to thank all of you have participated--publically or privately. I've had many emails stating that the challenge was exactly what some of you needed. 1.) It's our last check-in! Finish strong! 2.) Final Words. Check out my last "rah rah" video! - [31.3 Jump (Week 2 Video)](https://www.claresmith.me/31-3-jump-week-2-video/) - "Don't let the impossibility of the ideal keep you from doing something constructive." {Gary Thomas, "Pure Pleasure"} Remember to check-in with how you did LAST week! Do you need to adjust some of your goals? Feel free to! This is YOUR plan! It's mid-week of week 2 of 31.3 Jump! Here is my video update! - [My goals for {31.3 Jump}](https://www.claresmith.me/my-goals-for-31-3-jump/) - I told you I was part of this with you, so here are my goals for each of the 3 areas. Would you mind sharing yours? You can do it on the message board, below in the comments, or on facebook/twitter!! REMEMBER: We all have different end goals!! We are all in different starting spots. - [Drop 5 pounds this month! (The Better Mom)](https://www.claresmith.me/drop-5-pounds-this-month-the-better-mom/) - I'm posting today at The Better Mom! If you have a deficit of 500 calories each day, you can lose 5 pounds this month! I've got some everyday, easy ways to drop those final 5 pounds! - [My Running Fuel](https://www.claresmith.me/my-running-fuel/) - As a runner, I'm always curious how other runners fuel. It's about as varied as the music you listen to or even the clothes you wear, but I think you can glean something from everyone. I'm in no means an expert in this area, so you don't necessarily want to mimic what I do! It's - [My BRAND NEW running shoes!](https://www.claresmith.me/my-brand-new-running-shoes/) - So a few weeks ago, I posted my current running shoes, however they were on their last leg. I just purchased these last week and have had one long run (12 miles) and a short run (4 miles) in them. I think they are a keeper! I tried on quite a few between a local - [The Running Skirt: Yay or Nay?](https://www.claresmith.me/the-running-skirt-yay-or-nay/) - I just purchased my first running skirt. (Target clearance!!!) I've been wanting one for a while but have been hesitant to get it. Why? Because I was afraid I wouldn't look as tough running wearing it! You might think this is weird, but there are plenty of female runners out there who scoff at the - [My current running shoes](https://www.claresmith.me/my-current-running-shoes/) - Here's a snapshot of my current running shoes. They are about 1 year old and I'm ready to turn them in for another pair! (My knee has been hurting in the past 2 runs which is usually a dead giveaway for me) I've done ALL brands of shoes!!! It depends on what I'm using them - [My FAVORITE Exercise Instructor](https://www.claresmith.me/my-favorite-exercise-instructor/) - I get asked ALL the time who I recommend for exercise DVD's. There are SOOO many out there. Really. You can run into any store nowadays and find a turn style rack filled to the brim of every type of workout. (This is my #1 reason that I won't put one out there! LOL) But - [I spent 24 Hours exercising....and lived!!!](https://www.claresmith.me/i-spent-24-hours-exercising-and-lived/) - ....ok. Maybe not 24 hours straight, but pretty close to it! Last weekend I attended Empower Fitness Conference and had a GREAT time! I would have stayed longer but needed to tend to my mommy duties. :) Let me give you a little recap!! Friday night I arrived and took a Total Body Conditioning class. - ["Try It" Challenge {Week 4}](https://www.claresmith.me/try-it-challenge-week-4/) - You've made it! We are at the final week of our "Try It' challenge! Congrats to those of you who have stayed along the journey with me. I hope it was a fun thing to add into your life! (If you need to catch up on the other 3 weeks of the challenge, click here) - [Happy Monday!](https://www.claresmith.me/happy-monday/) - [I met Denise Austin!](https://www.claresmith.me/i-met-denise-austin/) - A few years ago, my sister ran a half-marathon in Cincinnati. An "expo" is an event the day before a race that, for any lover of fitness or running, is the closest thing to heaven on earth. They have booths and booths of fitness gear, clothing, shoes and food!! To our surprise, Denise Austin was - [Get MOVING!](https://www.claresmith.me/get-moving/) - What would a fitness website be without practical fitness advice? First things first. Get MOVING!! How's this for a simple equation? Desire to lose weight + Lack of Activity = Unattained Goal Who wants to start a fresh new year sluggish and sedentary? This may sound so elementary but it's an ESSENTIAL to weight loss - [The Story of a Girl](https://www.claresmith.me/new-post-2/) - This is the story about a blonde-haired, talkative, happy little girl from a very small town. She loved “Get in Shape Girl” and “Mousercize”. It was one of her very favorite things to do but little did she know that her love of movement would define her adulthood. She played every sport available in school - [Welcome!!](https://www.claresmith.me/hello-world-2/) - Frustrated with your weight? Suffering from low self-esteem? Defeated from your lack of discipline? Can’t fit into last year’s jeans? Feeling alone on this roller coaster that we call weight management? Good. You’ve come to the right place. I have something for you. ## Pages - [Homepage](https://www.claresmith.me/) - Bringing Clarity to Women on the Front Line - [Life Coaching](https://www.claresmith.me/coaching/) - Clare Smith helps clients walk away with progress towards the goals they want to achieve, clarity in their life, a renewed energy to tackle the world in which they live! Book your coaching with Clare today! - [Services](https://www.claresmith.me/services/) - Clare is a coach, speaker and trainer for leaders. - [Corporate Consulting](https://www.claresmith.me/consulting/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” background_image=”https://www.claresmith.me/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/haute-stock-photography-opt-in-freebie-17b.jpg” background_enable_video_mp4=”off” custom_margin=”||||true|” custom_padding=”4%||4%||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” max_width=”800px” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”|5%||5%|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_css_main_element=”display: flex;||flex-direction: column;||justify-content: center;” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_letter_spacing=”2px” header_2_line_height=”1.3em” background_enable_color=”off” text_orientation=”center” width=”100%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″] GET THE SERVICES NOW! Corporate Consulting [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”] Clare is - [About](https://www.claresmith.me/about/) - Clare Smith is a Speaker and Coach for women who are on the front lines of life. With practical teaching and certified training behind her, she will help you find the clarity and confidence you need to take your next step. - [Cut to the Chase Coaching](https://www.claresmith.me/cut-to-the-chase-coaching/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#EEE9E7″ background_enable_image=”off” custom_margin=”-39px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.claresmith.me/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/clare-smith-coaching-call-lightframe.png” alt=”Clare sitting at a table with a laptop – Clare Smith Coach and Speaker” title_text=”clare smith coaching call lightframe” align=”right” align_tablet=”right” align_phone=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” module_alignment=”right” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”||||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”||||false|false” module_alignment_tablet=”right” module_alignment_phone=”center” module_alignment_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ - [Blog](https://www.claresmith.me/blog/) - Check out these Blog Posts by Clare Smith - certified coach and speaker for women who are looking for clarity and confidence in their life. - [Freebie Thank You](https://www.claresmith.me/freebiethankyou/) - Thank you for signing up for one of Clare's Freebies! - [Instagram](https://www.claresmith.me/instagram/) - Quick links for Clare Smith - [Leadership Coaching and Training](https://www.claresmith.me/leadership/) - Leadership training and workshops to help everyone in your organization flourish in finding their unique voice and contribution, and empowering your teams to be intentional in their work and multiplication! - [Speaking](https://www.claresmith.me/speaking/) - Bringing Clarity to Women on the Front Line - [Contact](https://www.claresmith.me/contact/) - Contact Clare Smith - coach, speaker and motivator for women on the front lines. - [Podcast](https://www.claresmith.me/podcast/) - Clare's podcast is for women who are ready to take their next step - find the confidence they need. - [Thank You Freebie](https://www.claresmith.me/thankyoufreebie/) - Thank you! - [Balanced Living Workbook](https://www.claresmith.me/balanced-living-workbook/) - Get your Balanced Living Workbook for free! - [livingandactiveresources](https://www.claresmith.me/livingandactiveresources/) - [Coaching Call Questions](https://www.claresmith.me/cc-questions/) - Coaching Call Questionnaire Thank you for answering these questions before our call. It will help me make the best use of our time! Name* First Last Email* Country*(Need to know for phone call purposes!)Phone*Don't worry--I won't save it!Age*Relationship Status*If you have children, what are their ages?Occupation*Can I pray before the call?*Yes- please pray!No- I would ## Projects - [Project #3](https://www.claresmith.me/project/project-3/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”maggie_light_background” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f7f3f0″ background_image=”http://www.claresmith.me/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/00.png” background_size=”contain” background_position=”center_right” custom_padding=”2%||2%||true|false”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_letter_spacing=”2px” header_letter_spacing=”1px” text_orientation=”center”] Project Title YOUR SUBTITLE GOES HERE [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default” module_alignment=”center”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_right=”1px” border_width_right_tablet=”0px” border_width_right_phone=”” border_width_right_last_edited=”on|tablet”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_line_height=”2.2em” text_orientation=”justified” custom_margin=”|7%|||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”|0%|||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|tablet”] Caramels apple pie liquorice cheesecake biscuit - [Project #4](https://www.claresmith.me/project/project-4/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”maggie_light_background” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f7f3f0″ background_image=”http://www.claresmith.me/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/00.png” background_size=”contain” background_position=”center_right” custom_padding=”2%||2%||true|false”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_letter_spacing=”2px” header_letter_spacing=”1px” text_orientation=”center”] Project Title YOUR SUBTITLE GOES HERE [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default” module_alignment=”center”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_right=”1px” border_width_right_tablet=”0px” border_width_right_phone=”” border_width_right_last_edited=”on|tablet”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_line_height=”2.2em” text_orientation=”justified” custom_margin=”|7%|||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”|0%|||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|tablet”] Caramels apple pie liquorice cheesecake biscuit - [Project #5](https://www.claresmith.me/project/project-5/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”maggie_light_background” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f7f3f0″ background_image=”http://www.claresmith.me/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/00.png” background_size=”contain” background_position=”center_right” custom_padding=”2%||2%||true|false”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_letter_spacing=”2px” header_letter_spacing=”1px” text_orientation=”center”] Project Title YOUR SUBTITLE GOES HERE [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default” module_alignment=”center”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_right=”1px” border_width_right_tablet=”0px” border_width_right_phone=”” border_width_right_last_edited=”on|tablet”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_line_height=”2.2em” text_orientation=”justified” custom_margin=”|7%|||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”|0%|||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|tablet”] Caramels apple pie liquorice cheesecake biscuit - [Project #6](https://www.claresmith.me/project/project-6/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”maggie_light_background” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f7f3f0″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ title_text=”00″ background_image=”http://www.claresmith.me/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/00.png” background_size=”contain” background_position=”center_right” custom_padding=”2%||2%||true|false”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_letter_spacing=”2px” header_letter_spacing=”1px” text_orientation=”center” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″] Project Title YOUR SUBTITLE GOES HERE [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default” module_alignment=”center”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_right=”1px” border_width_right_tablet=”0px” border_width_right_phone=”” border_width_right_last_edited=”on|tablet”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_line_height=”2.2em” text_orientation=”justified” custom_margin=”|7%|||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”|0%|||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|tablet” hover_enabled=”0″ - [Project #2](https://www.claresmith.me/project/project-2/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.3″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_section] - [Project #1](https://www.claresmith.me/project/project-1/) ## Categories - [Challenges](https://www.claresmith.me/category/challenges/) - [Fitness](https://www.claresmith.me/category/fitness/) - [Videos](https://www.claresmith.me/category/videos/) - [Mindset](https://www.claresmith.me/category/mindset/) - [Holistic Liiving](https://www.claresmith.me/category/holistic-living/) - [Food](https://www.claresmith.me/category/food/) - [Leadership](https://www.claresmith.me/category/leadership/) - [Faith](https://www.claresmith.me/category/faith/) ## Tags - [2ndAnnual:Living&Active](https://www.claresmith.me/tag/2ndannuallivingactive/) - [3rdLivingandActive](https://www.claresmith.me/tag/3rdlivingandactive/) - [abs](https://www.claresmith.me/tag/abs/) - [accountability](https://www.claresmith.me/tag/accountability/) - [beautiful](https://www.claresmith.me/tag/beautiful/) - 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