Reaching new goals!

I was so amazed by how my last blog, 7 days, 49 cabinets, really helped me stay on track and complete my goal. Having the house more organized helps alleviate so much stress and wasted time searching for those misplaced items. So...I have decided to go ahead with my new blog.
In my days as a mom I put the majority of my energy and attention into my kids and my husband, as it should be, making sure we take the time both as a family and individually to dedicate time to our faith and attempting to maintain a clean home, cook good meals and keep a good environment for my family. I have also started a new skin care business, which I love www.divatammy.societyskincare.com, and am in the process of starting a small pet sitting business in my area. With the family tended to, the businesses in the works, my home running well, my skin looking great with the help of my new skin care, there is one thing I am neglecting...my body! It's time to take better care of this body God gave me and get back into shape!
I have always been really into health and fitness. I know how to eat right and I have really great training ideas and workouts, I just have not been applying these things to my every day life. I find that I neglect to take time to exercise as I feel guilty for taking time from my family. I tend to over eat. I don't necessarily make bad choices in food, I just don't limit my portions enough and have a tendency to eat the kid's leftovers. Mental note, just because it is on the plate doesn't mean you have to eat it!
Today is the day! I am going to reach my first goal in the next 4 weeks to lose 8 pounds. To some that may not sound like much, to others it may sound like a lot. I think I set a reasonable goal for myself at this point, that may change next week, lol. I am not going to drastically change my every day life. I am just going to imply a couple of new things each week to stick with and shed some pounds. Easy, right?
This week I am focusing on smaller, smarter portions and paying attention to what I am putting in my body. I do not believe in eliminating any food group, just in being smart about food choices. I am also making sure I drink plenty of water. I usually stick to the 8, 8oz glasses, but have been neglecting that as well. I am incorporating a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise each day including both cardio and strength training. I usually see quick results in my arms so I will make sure to focus on that area to give me a little more motivation to reach this goal. I have a picture of me, just after I met Scott, and Billy Blanks a.k.a. Mr. Tae Bo, at the Atlantis. I was probably in my best shape ever. This will be placed on the fridge to both motivate me and remind me that I may not need what I am going after in the fridge!
My exercise this week will include running, free weights and fitness DVDs. A few of my favorites are Jillian Michaels and the Biggest Loser workouts as well as the Beach Body 10 minute trainers, Slim in 6 and old school Joannie Greggains Super Stomachs. A great way to try some DVDs at home is to borrow them from the local library. This is how I found some of my favorites before I spent the money on buying them.
Now, it's time to get started. I will not let it be a sign that, while making my breakfast shake this morning to kick off my new plan, the blender broke. I will stay focused and positive and continue to blog about my progress. This will hopefully hold me accountable and help me reach my goals! At this point, I WILL NOT post my actual weight...lol. Although, after a couple of weeks if I am not sticking to my plan and staying motivated I will post my weight and put it all out there! : )
If anyone is reading and has any good tips, I am always open to trying new fitness and diet ideas. Thanks!!