First Question: Being a SAHM, I always have a child with me. Can anyone relate? Well, as you all know this makes it a little harder to workout. Luckily for me, I have a treadmill in our basement that is full of toys and crafty activities. On a typical morning, I can run for about two miles before the basement full of toys becomes boring. Then I can usually continue another mile, while assuring the kiddos I’m almost done. I would love to be able to run longer than three miles on a daily basis. So my question to you is…What ideas do you have to keep the kiddos occupied while Mommy has some “me time”?
Second Question: My second question is also an exercise related one. I love to run, but sometimes my old knee, feet, and ankle injuries get the best of me (gymnast back in the day). I’m thinking of purchasing either a bike or an elliptical machine, but need some input before making the big decision. I know that the elliptical is probably better for you, but it is so bulky. The bike is smaller, but may not give you a complete workout. What are your experiences and opinions on each of these pieces of exercise equipment?
Third Question: My third question is in a completely different from the precious two. I am currently working on a query letter for a middle grade historical fiction book I’ve written. I’ve researched how to write a proper query letter, but all the websites and books I’ve found are based on adult fiction. Does anyone know of a good site to research writing a query letter? Does anyone have any experience or knowledge they’d like to share?
I can’t wait to hear all your responses. Grab a latte, put up your feet, and join the discussion!
13 comments:
When I started working out my youngest was not yet in school and so to work out without worrying about her either touching the treadmill or whining which drove me nuts I went out and bought her mini exercise equipment. They have a bunch of it at Toys r us and also online. I got her a child treadmill, big bouncy ball(exercise ball), very light weights(1 and 2 pounders) and her own exercise mat(nap mat) and she loved to do exercise with me. She would never do as much as I did but then I would explain to her that she needed to rest sometimes too so her body didn't get too tired. She loved it and it kept her happy long enough for me to do what I wanted to do as well.
As for different equipment we recently bought a recumbent bike (Mr. M and I both have bad knees and neither of us can run)and we love it!! We do treadmill and the bike and it works fantastic for us. He like the eliptical but my knee can't take it so we agreed on the bike and it was totally worth it!
I don't have any answers for you, but if you find out the answer to #1-- PLEASE let me know! I'm doing good these days if I can get a bathroom break by myself :)
Can't help too much with the first except that some sort of snack may help buy you some time for the kids- or just give you one more thing to pick up afterwards. But, for the 2nd question, my hubby is a personal trainer & nutrition consultant and he LOVES recumbent bikes. He actually advices people NOT to run because of the pounding on the joints and it can alter adrenal glands and counter effect weight control- - or something like that (I try listen, really I do), anyway. He would most likely say a bike because of the less stress on your body but provides a nice effect; but let me know if you have a question and I'll send it to him, he loves to help! Have a great day.
I typically wait until nap time to get in my "me time". Or I whip over to the salon and get a pedicure when my husband gets home from work...;)
Thanks for the great info Family of 4!
Linds - You'll be the first to know!
Thanks Bree!
Gucci Mama - My kids gave up nap time around 15 months. I miss nap time!
I don't think I can help you with your questions, except with the 2nd, I'd go with the elliptical machine! I have one at home & I'm really satisfied with it!
As to the question if you should read Wings or Shiver, I haven't read them, but I've been thinking about reading Wings these days, so I'd go with Wings!
Happy reading :)
I'm actually in the middle of querying myself, so it made me smile when I read you're thinking of doing the same thing! It's definitely a lot of work and feels like a part time job at times, but it's worth it and fun. I don't know if you've been to these blogs yet, but these are my two favorite agent blogs; I like them as people, and they have super helpful advice for writers: Nathan Bransford (nathanbransford.com) and Rachelle Gardner (cba-ramblings.blogspot.com). They both have great stuff, but I think Nathan reps more young adult stuff when you get around to finally sending queries out.
Good luck with it all!
Thanks for the info Sarah! I actually have been following Nathan Bransford for quite some time, but I'm definitely going to go check out Rachelle Gardner.
Hi!
I also have bad knees and found that a bike did not help. It put terrific strain on my knees and I had to give it up. Maybe a recumbant would work better, I don't know.
I understand your problem with "me time". I remember thinking when mine were young that just going to the store to buy groceries was a treat, if my husband kept the children! Now they re all married and I have all the time I need to myself.
Come visit me @
www.happyfamilyhappykids.blogspot.com
Having a bad knee myself, I cannot run or handle the treadmill without having to pay with days of pain afterwards. I joined the Y not too long ago and am trying to build a relationship with the elliptical. We are off to a rocky start...HOWEVER...I NEVER have any problems with my knee. Elliptical is low impact yet yields much better results. You burn more calories in a shorter amount of time and it is very easy on your knees. While it may be bulkier, I would recommend this to anyone who has problems with their knees.
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