This week is Week 4 of Pure Barre McLean’s Weekly Mini Goals May Series! Week 3: May 22nd – May 30th Nutrition Goal: Don’t skip breakfast and cut back on added sugars. Fitness Goal: Workout 7 days this week (even if it is just for 20 minutes!) Don’t skip breakfast and cut back on added sugars. Many breakfast items have high amounts of hidden sugar including smoothies, cereal, and flavored oatmeal which may not be the best way to start your family’s day out on the right foot! It is recommended adults get no more than 9 teaspoons of sugar a day while the average person consumes around 26 teaspoons. There is 4 grams of sugar per teaspoon, remember this important fact when looking at nutrition labels. Try alternate breakfast options like unsweetened oatmeal, plain yogurt with natural sugars from fruit or eggs. All easy and healthy options your family will love! Workout every day this week! Try walking for at least 20 minutes each day and bring the whole family along if you can. Maybe walk to your errands instead of driving or park a little further away in a parking lot to get a few extra steps in. Every little bit counts!
By HonestlyGina “Get together, say cheese [CLICK]……. Aww, y’all look so cute, hold on let me get my camera [CLICK].” That is how his swear-in ceremony went; I was not alone in the rapid fire of pictures and happy tears. There is a joy and sadness that comes with moments like these because you know that there will be many moments like these, scrambling to take pictures… to capture memories. Easter is over and after a couple short weeks off to boot camp he went. 8 weeks later he is home for ONLY a week and it’s packed with family and friends wanting to see and love on him, wish we did not have to share. Off to A-School he goes and we should be happy because it’s only a 9 hour drive from home is what we’re told. As we make the drive to A-School we take plenty of pictures and stop at as many landmarks and great restaurants time will permit. We get married and have 2 days to celebrate before A-School begins and he is unavailable yet again. A-School grinded on and I was left to figure out this new military world of regulation by myself. There were so many things that needed to be done at varying stages. The anxiety increased as we awaited the list of billets and even more so as we prepared for his first duty station. I had the opportunity to go visit once and then it was not until graduation that we were able to see him again. Cameras ready [CLICK]. Pictures of the ceremony [CLICK], pictures of him with his peers [CLICK], pictures of all the amazing food they produced [CLICK] and lastly a picture of him with his best friend since boot camp [CLICK]. Goodbyes were rapidly approaching [CLICK]. Knowing we had less than 2 weeks to say goodbye to home, friends and family was daunting [CLICK]. Farewell parties were bittersweet [CLICK], family all in one place for the sendoff. Cross country we ventured [CLICK] in under 3 days. Check into the hotel [CLICK] because the house won’t be ready until tomorrow. We got our keys [CLICK], Household Goods delivered; oh and we must not forget that he would be leaving us here alone to join the crew, that was already underway tomorrow. Alone in a new place to establish the house and get the kids into school. He was home in time for Christmas [CLICK CLICK CLICK] and luckily New Years [CLICK], we were beyond ecstatic. Now we are looking at the fact that he missed Mother’s day , missed his son’s tooth coming out, and will miss Father’s day, our anniversary, my birthday, his birthday, and possibly the kid’s birthday. Looking at last year as a whole we were together 3 months. 
People constantly look at you strange as you take too many pictures of seemingly frivolous things but have no idea how few and far between you have these moments. You take these pictures not for yourself but for your family, so they can remember these moments with you later. Civilians take this for granted because they know Mommy/Daddy will be home at this time every day and we will do these things but this is not true for the military child. Military children look to create as many memories as possible because they know when Mommy/Daddy is called to duty it can be days, weeks, or months before they see them again. It is easy to understand the concept of what Mommy/Daddy does but it is very difficult to wrap your head around what their absence does to the family. What people fail to understand is how it feels to have them miss births, birthdays, anniversaries, sporting events, school programs, graduations, and even the loss of another family member. The absence is not one sided because the same way that their absence is always felt for you the inability to be there gives them the same sadness. We do crazy things like celebrate birthdays and holidays out of tune because we want to do it while we can all be together and that is quite alright. Nothing like having a birthday in July but celebrating in May or June because there is a pending deployment on the horizon. The love that is shared between military personnel and their family is exemplified by the power of their connection despite the distance. Real love knows no bounds! This is why we do not care how we are perceived as we prepare ourselves for reunions: clothes, hair, signs, and countdowns. We know that the same “omg; it’s almost here” is burning in their minds too. That is why we smile, cry, hug, and squeeze one another. These moments are precious and will all too soon be gone again. 
This week is Week 3 of Pure Barre McLean’s Weekly Mini Goals May Series! Week 3: May 17th – May 21st Nutrition Goal: Try a new type of oil (ie coconut oil) Fitness Goal: Workout 7 days this week (even if it is just for 20 minutes!) Making an easy switch from traditional vegetable oil to a healthier option like Coconut Oil can add beneficial nutrients to your family’s diet! Different oils have great health benefits, different cooking temperatures and distinctly different taste profiles. Use a new type of oil in making your own salad dressing, stir-fry or simply toss with fresh seasonal vegetables. Almond, avocado, hazelnut, and sesame oils all have higher smoke points than olive oil, which make them great for stir-fry and sautés. They are all high in monounsaturated fat, which has shown to lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and increase HDL (good cholesterol). Looking for a new way to get you and your family fit? With the beautiful spring weather these days, take advantage and play outside or going to a local park instead of staying indoors! Maybe even try a new sport the whole family can play. Outdoor play time = more moving for everyone! -Kalen Winter Co-Owner, Pure Barre McLean
Chief Master at Arms is a title that Chad holds seriously as a Navy Reservist stationed over seas. Chad has been with the Navy Reserves for 20 years but his most important title came 16 years ago, when he became a father to his daughter Kortni. Six years after he became a father of one, he became a father of two. Kortini and Sami. In 2008, he was sent on his first overseas mission to Kuwait City, then again in 2009-2010 as Protective Service and recently he was sent to Djibouti. This last trip to Djibouti was a little over a year, but felt much longer to his two daughters. Kortni was 15 at the time of his deployment last year, a time where daughters cling to their dads for guidance, and Sami was only 9 but so in love with her father. The girls started their first cheer season with Connect Cheer NW while daddy was deployed. They would chat with him via Skype to fill him in on everything they were learning, the new friends they were making and the support from the new cheer community. Explaining to non-military families that daddy is deployed can be one of the hardest things for a child to do. Luckily, this deployment was only little over a year. The girls did not know that their mother and father were planning the ultimate surprise for their daughters. Their mother, Michelle, allowed Our Military Kids to be part of this surprise with Connect Cheer NW. We planned it all out, Dad was going to surprise the girls at Worlds Competition down in Orlando, FL. He was going to walk in during one of their practices so he would be able to watch Kortni compete all weekend and celebrate Sami’s tenth birthday! But the airlines had another plan. Unfortunately, Chad’s plane was delayed and the original plan was going to be ruined, until, Jodi (co-owner of CCNW), took planning into her hands and organized a “team meeting” for the girls to attend. As the girls talked in a circle, Kortni’s father stood behind them before bending down to take his daughter into his arms! (Sami was already wrapped around her dad, not ever wanting to let go.) 
We are so happy to be part of this, even if it was a small amount. We wantto wish the whole family and community a happy homecoming!
By Taylor Basilio We’ve learned how to make deployment fly by for your toddlers, your children, and your teens, but what about the entire family? You all have special reasons and unique ways that you miss and love your soldier, but your family as a whole is having a difficult time with the deployment. It’s important to stay connected, to do things together, and to discuss your feelings during this time—especially when you’re having a tough day. Below are our favorite tried-and-true ways to make deployment go by quickly for the whole family. 1. Volunteer as a family. We talked about this in a previous article, but volunteering is an incredible way to give back and to pass the time. Whether you choose a homeless shelter, an animal shelter, a soup kitchen, etc., volunteering is a great way to feel involved and stay busy during a deployment. 2. Make a family game night. My family always did this when my dad was deployed and it was a fun thing to look forward to each week. Choose games you all know and love, but don’t forget to try some new ones, too! 3. Have Sunday dinners with friends. Know a family whose service member is also deployed? Plan a weekly dinner! This gives the parents a time to catch up and talk, and it gives the kids a perfect opportunity to play and release some energy. Plus, it’s always nice to know people who are going through the same thing you are. 4. Have Skype or FaceTime dates. This is definitely tried and true by most families experiencing a deployment, but we didn’t want to forget about it because it’s incredibly important. While you are trying to occupy your time at home, don’t forget that your service member wants to do the same overseas (or wherever they are deployed to). If Skype or FaceTime won’t work during this deployment, be sure to always fit in phone calls. 5. Be sure not to forget about your alone time. While family time is important, so it alone time. Be sure to have time separate from each other just as much as you have time together. Everyone needs time to process their feelings, and it keeps you all from becoming too overwhelmed. 6. Go for evening walks. This is an awesome way to talk about each of your days, fit in some exercise, release some stress, and create a daily (or weekly) tradition. Plus, it’s spring, and summer is right around the corner. Who wouldn’t want to be outside right now? 7. Plan a family vacation. If all else fails, plan an amazing vacation or fun outing for when your service member gets home. Be sure to include them in the planning if you’re not making the vacation a surprise. This vacation could be a cross-country trip, a weeklong beach stay, or just a visit home to see family. Regardless of where you decide to go, it gives you something to look forward to as a family (service member included!) for when the deployment is over. With these seven tips, you’re sure to survive the deployment in one piece, and each family member will have been glad to keep busy.
This week is Week 2 of Pure Barre McLean’s Weekly Mini Goals May Series! Week 2: May 10th – May 16th Nutrition Goal: Try a new fruit or vegetable Fitness Goal: Workout 7 days this week (even if it is just for 20 minutes!) Want to spice up your family’s diet while keeping it healthy and easy? Try adding a new fruit or veggie this week! Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables will help give your family all of the vitamins and minerals we need throughout the day. Most people choose the same 10-15 staple foods every week. This week try to change up your go-to items and try a vegetable you have never had. Not sure how to add in a workout between juggling kids, work and all other aspects of your everyday life? Try going on a quick walk and have your kids join you. Or head to the playground to get your heart rate up and body moving! More movement = a happier you and family! -Kalen Winter Pure Barre McLean- Co-Owner
Indie is 8 years old, an honor student, big brother and soon to be a martial arts black belt- all before the age of 9. 
“The grant has indeed made a very positive impact on Indie’s life and that of his family. Martial Arts has become a very motivational foundation for Indie’s development as a young man, as well as an example of dedication and discipline to his younger sisters. Over the years, Indie’s parents have watched martial arts nurture a calmness in Indie which has touched many in his life: from his instructors, teachers, church, friends and family. The practice of setting goals and working long-term to achieve them is a very concept that every parent strives to instill in their children, and martial arts has given Indie that in a very tangible way. His journey over the last four years is nearing its culmination. His goal of achieving his black belt is soon to be realized and Indie’s grant during his dad’s deployment allowed it to continued unimpeded.”
You’ve seen it in such movies as:
Wendy Wu – Homecoming Warrior
3 Ninjas
Kung Fu Panda
The Karate Kid I to Infinity
Kick It!
This is not for parents that are faint at heart. Nor, if you’re not ready to be poked, slashed, kicked, or chopped. Before, we have someone call the Department of Family and Children Services, let me clear the air…I’m speaking of the awesome experience of Martial Arts. My then 4 year-old came to us over 6 months ago and said this was what he was meant to do. Imagine after trying soccer, basketball, and a few other sports without much interest, I was willing to give this the old college try. But what I discovered was something amazing – something that has influenced our entire family; including our 3 year-old. And I may as well admit that I’ve become interested in starting a course or two. We consider our boys to be mild-mannered and even a little shy. But attending a local ATA (American Taekwondo Association) program in our small town has given root to confidence and motivation in our son. Recently, I had a chance to speak one-on-one with the Lead Instructor Master Garret Shipman of EXCEL Family Martial Arts. His school has several locations in the Missouri area. He provided some great insight on the program and its effects on a child’s development. Keep in mind this is just one of many programs that your little one can become involved in and it’s great to take advantage of free introductory class offers to determine if the chosen martial arts program in right for your child. At EXCEL, Master Shipman and other instructors seek to develop in each child physical and mental balance, self-control, and focus. Notice there is nothing in there about becoming a “lean, mean, fighting machine”. I have seen children come in on day one scared to death of moving and within two weeks develop a flow of motion that easily compares to those of children who have had months of experience. Yet, the most intriguing part of joining the local studio is the comradery he experiences with other children and other military kids in general. My quiet little boy has become a little guy with a booming voice calling out “Yes, Sir”, “Songam [numbers]”, and naming his “moves”. He has developed a confidence in demeanor. At his first karate tournament this weekend, I fully expected him to be shy and stick to my leg like glue. But he did no such thing, he ran onto the floor with a zeal and readiness to show the 30 or so parents, judges, and other students what he was made of! I asked Master Shipman what are the benefits of joining similar programs for military kids and he listed the following:
- There are 15,000 ATA centers around the US and 9 countries
- Instant ATA bond during tournaments
- Built in network of friends
- Continued confidence building
- Ability to earn Physical Education credit for homeschoolers
As a parent of a young child getting ready for school, the most important aspect and the most compelling reason to sign-up is the self-defense portion. I feel safe knowing that he can physically defend himself and he is confident enough to tell others “No!” The added benefit is that my three-year-old isn’t old enough to join class, yet; but he is watching, learning, and preparing himself based on his brother’s experiences. And that folks is a solid piece of mind. Hi-Ya!
This week is Week 1 of Pure Barre McLean’s Weekly Mini Goals May Series! Week 1: May 3rd – May 9th Nutrition Goal: Drink more water and say ‘no’ to liquid calories Fitness Goal: Workout 7 days this week (even if it is just for 20 minutes!) Why drink more water? Your body needs more water than you think and mild dehydration can result in low energy, headaches, brain fog and even overeating. Drinking plenty of water, especially after working out, will keep your body fueled and prevent thirst from tricking your body into feeling hungry. Consuming liquid calories can lead to weight gain and rapid blood sugar spikes. This week, avoid caloric beverages and swap them for soda water, herbal tea, coffee, and even fruit flavored water like the recipe below, try to get at least a gallon every day for adequate hydration. Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Spritzer. Why workout every day? Not only does exercise improves body function for every day making you healthier and stronger, but is a great stress reliever and confidence booster! Putting a little time aside for yourself each day will benefit all aspects of your life. We obviously love classes at Pure Barre McLean and recommend those, but if you can’t make it to class all week – try to squeeze in a 20 minute walk around your neighborhood – every little bit counts! -Kalen Winter Pure Barre McLean, Co-Owner
Pure Barre McLean is proud to announce their collaboration with Our Military Kids for the month of May! How do Our Military Kids and Pure Barre go hand in hand? Pure Barre McLean offers an empowering environment where clients (women – and some men!) can come together to become healthier and stronger in a positive environment. Within the studio walls we drop our lives and work together to finish strong – leaving the studio feeling better than when first stepping foot in the door. The energy of each Pure Barre class is electric and serves as an amazing de-stresser in the madness of our crazy lives. Not only that, but Pure Barre aims to be involved in our clients’ lives and the lives of those in the community by participating in local activities and donating to local charities. How is Pure Barre McLean contributing to Our Military Kids?
- 15% Off Class Packages To Those Involved In The Military
- 100% of water bottle revenue will be donated to Our Military Kids
- On Mon, May 18th at 7:45pm they will host a Donations Only Class – 100% of proceeds are donated to Our Military Kids ($15 minimum donation required)
Pure Barre McLean is thrilled to do what we can to support such an amazing organization and we look forward to getting to know more of our local military families who have given so much of their lives for the country and local community. Also, throughout the month of May for 5 weeks, Pure Barre McLean is challenging its clients and you to accomplish a Nutritional Goal and Fitness Goal each week! Are you up for the challenge? Mini goals make these more attainable and fun to get yourself and family on a healthier track! Week 1 (May 3rd – 9th) – Nutrition Goal: Drink more water and say ‘no’ to liquid calories Fitness Goal: Workout 7 days this week (even if it is just for 20 minutes!) Week 2 (May 10th – 16th) – Nutrition Goal: Try a new fruit or vegetable Fitness Goal: Workout 7 days this week (even if it is just for 20 minutes!) Week 3 (May 17th – 23rd) – Nutrition Goal: Use a new type of oil (try coconut oil!) Fitness Goal: Workout 7 days this week (even if it is just for 20 minutes!) Week 4 (May 24th – 30th) – Nutrition Goal: Don’t skip breakfast and cut back on added sugar Fitness Goal: Workout 7 days this week (even if it is just for 20 minutes!) Week 5 (May 31st – June 6th) Nutrition Goal: Snack Healthy Fitness Goal: Workout 7 days this week (even if it is just for 20 minutes!) -Kalen Winter Co-Owner of Pure Barre McLean