This is me in a nutshell…
I am a 37 year old wife (to a wonderful husband who I cherish) and mother of 5 beautiful children (ages 3-14).
I am a health enthusiast and I strive to eat as “clean” as possible. I am always trying healthy new recipes and “healthifying” old ones.
I love enjoy running and working out as well.
Epic Relay Race 2011
Sawtooth Relay Race 2012
I love to read anything and everything related to health and fitness. I also love to “pick the brains” of those I know who inspire me and are successful at living healthy and happy lives. I really do strive to live the healthiest and happiest life possible.
However, I haven’t always been like that!
I’ve been a fairly healthy person most of my life. I was always very thin growing up (although I didn’t realize it and certainly didn’t appreciate it!), so I didn’t give much thought into health and fitness. I exercised fairly regularly, but I just ate when I was hungry and didn’t really think about it.
My sisters and I in 1991 (I’m in the middle, age 15)
My sisters and I in 1994 (I’m in the melon colored shirt, age 18)
I lived the next 10-15 years just like that…exercising fairly regularly and just eating without putting much thought into it.
Well, a couple years ago I was looking through a bunch of our old pics. I was surprised to see I wasn’t the “same old, same old” thinish person I thought I was! In fact I told Kev, “ya know, I really have only been thin about 2-3 years out of the past 12 or so years!” It was then I realized that clothing sizes hadn’t gotten smaller and my clothes did not all shrink….I was just fatter!
Sad reality check.
I never got really huge, but I could definitely stand to lose a few pounds. 
Here are a couple of those “sad, reality check” pictures from a Hawaiian Cruise Kev and I went on in 2007…
Kev and I at the LDS (Mormon) temple in Oahu.
Kev and I at the Waimea Canyon in Kauai.
After this cruise, I went on to have 2 more babies (gained and lost ~50 pounds with each one!) I was not looking or feeling very cute. 
Here’s our little family when I was about 7 months pregnant. As you can see, I am not a very cute pregnant lady. My stomach doesn’t get too huge, but my whole body just blows up! It is so not cute.
Whoa, those are some scary pics….not for the faint of heart.
So, call it a mid-life crisis or whatever, but it really motivated me to get myself back into shape while I still could!!! I started going to the gym again and tried to eat a lot healthier. I quickly realized that eating well didn’t have to be bland and boring. In fact, I have found so many yummy healthy recipes that I LOVE! I don’t feel deprived at all!
So, I started this blog in July 2011. I thought it would be a great way to hold myself accountable to “someone” and keep myself motivated. I went on a quest to get in the best shape of my life!
Well…..I’m happy to say I have achieved that goal!
Wahoo!
Kev and I after a 10k race on July 4, 2012.
I’m not as stick thin as I used to be in high school, but I’m definitely healthier and stronger than I’ve ever been! And…..I don’t plan to stop….ever.
I’m also happy to say that if I can do it, ANYONE can! I am a crazy mom of five young kids and am always going a million miles an hour! I also have a giant treat addiction problem. Chocolate chip cookies, brownies and chocolate are my favorite things out there! However, I have learned how to still enjoy them occasionally…and not feel guilty! I’m happier (and healthier) because of it!
This is my life….and I love it!
You are gorgeous! Thanks for such an info filled blog, will def be returning.
Thank you so much!!! You are very kind. I’m so glad you like my blog!
I love this! Especially when you were like I like health but Oh, I also love this and oh and this. Yum yum. Sounds like me haha. But thanks for stopping by my blog too and it’s always great to see women all over achieving some of the same goals you have. I look forward to picking your brains too
Great blog, beautiful family and fabulous enthusiasm! Go Melanie! You are modeling such healthy living for your kids…
Thanks for stopping by my blog and liking my post. We both have a love of living a clean, healthy life!
Thank you so much! I appreciate your support. I look forward to reading more of your blog!
I can so relate! Thanks for checking out my blog, too and I’m looking forward to reading about your journeys and experiences as well. I might also be one who picks your brain, if it’s ok, from time to time.
I look forward to checking in on your blog and seein’ how you’re doing!
As you know, eating well is so hard because it is a LIFETIME commitment!! Auughh. We’ll just both have to keep pluggin’ away.
You can pick my brain whenever you like….I’m sure I’ll pick yours as well!
I just came across your blog, and look forward to reading/following. Great job with staying fit and healthy, you look amazing! And your family is beautiful.
I have the same history with weight-was tall, stick-skinny all my life, until 28 or so. After honeymoon, I realized I needed to change my eating habits and get more serious about working out.
Look forward to your motivation!
Thank SO MUCH for your encouragement and kind words. Staying/getting fit and healthy is so so tough, but so rewarding (as I’m sure you know!) I just keep plugging along knowing I’ll have my ups and (major) downs, but hope to learn from it all! I’m so glad you found my blog. Thanks for stopping by!
You look amazing! Keep up the good work. I love how you add the comment that eating healthy doesn’t have to be bland! I think that is what keeps most people from eating healthy because they think it’s boring. I love your blog and will definitely be following up!
Thank you so much Danielle. I so appreciate your kind words and support. I love discovering and creating new recipes that are healthy AND yummy!
just came across your blog and i am SO excited! i follow a few other health/fitness blogs that i love, each with their own stories but none of mothers! i was quickly watching my jeans get tighter and the scale get higher 2 years ago but as i was about to make a lifestyle change, my husband and i got blessed with out (now 8 month old son!)
i’ve now committed to getting into the best shape and become a healthier/happier wife/mother! i look forward to reading more from a fit mommy!
I’m so happy you found my blog Cayla! Congrats on your sweet little baby. Eating well and exercising is so tough…especially when you’re a mother! Good luck with your healthy efforts. You CAN get in the best shape of your life!!
Melanie,
I see that you run from your photos. I run some too but I am not as nearly as toned as you are. It is evident that you look after yourself so well!! I’m wondering if you lift weights and if so how do you go about it.
Thanks so much Julie! I do lift weights and I love it! I love to go to weight lifting classes at the gym. I’ve found some great instructors that really push me hard. My fav classes are called “Power Pump” or “Muscle Works” at the gym I go to. I also lift weights in the weight room as well. I mostly use the machines at the gym and sometimes the free weights. You can also lift weights at home. I just find I get a much better workout at the gym. I really want to work on the exercise section of this blog soon. I plan to add a bunch of videos of some great exercises. I just need to find the time to get it done! Good luck!
LOVE your story! You and your family are beautiful! Congrats on your success and yes, I totally believe that anyone – no matter how busy or how many kids – can be healthy. You’re a great example of that!
Thanks so much for your sweet words Melissa. Living a healthy lifestyle is tough and takes commitment, but as I’m sure you know….it is well worth it!
It’s nice to see that you are so committed to health – you will need it to keep up with your 5 kids! Cute family. Thanks for stopping by my site. Kim
Stumbled on your blog today. Love it! Looking forward to learning a lot from you! I definitely need some inspiration & your discipline!
I’m so glad you found my blog Corey! Feel free to ask me anything. I would be more than happy to help you! Healthy living is tough, but so rewarding. I definitely have my ups and downs, but keep coming back to good ol’ fashioned diet and exercise to feel my best.
I love this Melanie! Thank you so much for stopping by my blog yesterday. I am so glad I read yours. Will definitely keep checking in because you are incredibly inspirational. So nice to “meet” you!
Thanks so much Tiffany! I’m so glad we were able to connect. I love your blog as well and look forward to reading and learning so much from you!
Your kiddos are sooo precious! I love it – it’s completely opposite of my family. It’s girl (me), boy, girl, girl, girl.
Thanks so much Tori! That’s funny that you’re family is just the opposite. My daughter is definitely the calming influence among all my rowdy boys, lol!
Melanie, thank you for stopping by my blog. I’m so glad you did. Your story is very inspirational, especially right now, since I’ve decided to live a healthier life. I look forward to reading your blog on a regular basis.
Thanks for visiting my site. I tend to write a little bit about everything but as they say it is your blog. I bookmarked your site and will come back for a visit. Thanks.
Thanks for stopping by my blog! You and your family are beautiful! I can so relate to you!!
Thanks for stopping by my blog. I look forward to stopping by yours on a regularl basis!
Firstly congrats on your successes. You look one yummy mummy! I can totally relate to some of your highs and lows, having had 3 kids myself and always struggling to get back to that illusive pre-preg weight. But I’m giving it a go again after having my third and final child last September. My new blog is also helping me to keep me motivated and shift some lbs. I too am getting back into the running and would love to do another half marathon one day….let’s take one step at a time. Thanks for liking my post!
Thanks so much! It IS so hard to get back into shape after having kids. I would love to do another half marathon too, but I haven’t made the time for the training! I wish you the best of luck!
Love your very inspiring story and your wonderful recipes and tips, too! Thanks for checking out my blog….glad to have found your blog!
Keep up the good work and don’t forget to stop by my blog for a cup of herbal tea and a chat!
I’ll be updating posts regularly on some pretty serious social issues and I hope people will get some inspiration and encouragement from the blog. Good luck again!
What a beautiful blog and lovely family. Your kids are SO adorable. I am strive to live a healthy life as well. So glad I’ve found your blog as it will be my motivation.
You are so kind. Thanks so much. I’m so happy to connect with you. You have a beautiful blog that I will enjoy reading as well.
Hi Melanie, thanks for liking my blog, looks like we have a bit in common with the kids and sugar addictions!
We definitely do have a lot in common! I think sugar helps us to cope with all the kids, lol!
Hi Melanie, thanks for stopping at my blog, that’s how I discovered yours. I am really motivated now and confident to reach my goal! xx
Thanks for stopping by my site and liking the SMART goals post. I’m glad you are making such an effort to live and eat healthy. You’re giving your kids a great example!
Hi thanks for passing by my blog. I’m glad you did because I too like to run and am a health and fitness enthusiast (albeit it part time). This blog is just what I need to stay motivated and inspired, looking forward to trying some of your recipes because nutrition is where I struggle
teetotaldiaries.wordpress.com
Thanks, I’m so glad you found my blog too!
I hope you enjoy some of my recipes. I wish you all the best with your healthy endeavors! I’m sure your blog can help a lot of people. I’m so impressed!
Hi Melanie! Enjoyed your site. Wow mother of 5! My mom had 4 boys so I know what a job you have on your hands. It’s so great that you are taking care of you and being such an inspiration for your kids and others.
Here’s a quote for you:
“The most effective way to manage change is to create it.”
- Peter Drucker
Keep creating a your positive message!
Tim 2 Taylor
Wow, thanks so much for your kind words and support. It is tough raising 5 kids, but we just keep pluggin’ along. I love the quote you shared too….so great! Thanks!
So happy to discover your blog. I too put on more pounds that I wanted to after pregnancy. It was always easy to stay skinny until marriage! Looking forward to reading more of your life. Thanks for stopping by!
Thanks so much! Pregnancy weight is so tough…I can’t imagine how that would be with twins.
Hi Melanie!
You blog is absolutely lovely! So inspirational and motivating! You should be the spokesperson for all those out there who say they’re too busy to live a healthy lifestyle. Your family is so beautiful. My husband and I are waiting eagerly to meet our precious one someday if God willing so seeing pictures of yours filled my heart with warmth.
Just 3 years ago, I waited 85 pounds and fast forward to now, I am 115 Ibs and pursuing a career in nutrition. I sure am happy being healthy as well
. I look forward to following your wonderful blog!
Awww, you are so kind. You made my day! It really is so tough to live a healthy lifestyle, but so rewarding and I love it! I absolutely love your blog and all that you represent. You and your husband seem like wonderful people. I wish you all the best in your healthy endeavors and look forward to following your blog as well!
Melanie, you have a wonderful blog here. It was very inspiring to read your story! You have a beautiful family and I can tell you must be an amazing individual to juggle all your responsibilities in such a productive manner.
Keep up the great work. I wish you and your family the very best!
Wow, thank you so much for your sweet words and encouragement. I sincerely appreciate it. I love your blog and wish you all the best as well!
Melanie,
Looking fantastic after 5 children ~ You go girl!! I am 44 years old with two children, 14 yr old son and 5 yr old daughter. They definitely keep me on my toes!! I, too, strive to be the happiest and healthiest that I can. I found you when I googled “peanut butter protein balls” and magically, you were there. As my son says, “keep doing what your doing…” And I will visit you on your blog!
Valerie, I’m so glad you found my blog!
Thanks so much for your kind words too. I hope you love the peanut butter protein balls. They are one of my favorite treats. In fact, I have to just portion out 2 of them and then put them AWAY….or I will eat them all! LOL!
Beautiful family and blog you have here! Thanks so much for the “like” on The Re-Launching of LaurasLifeJourneyLounge …Spirit, Mind, Body.
Would like to invite you to follow http://lauraslifejourneylounge.wordpress.com/
~Laura
Thank you for stopping by! You have a really inspiring blog
Melanie you have a beautiful family and you are a gorgeous mum! I wish i will be like you when i will have children too
.. i am glad you liked my post and i will definitely follow your blog, i am a lover of sports and healthy life style too 
xoxo Thais
Thank you so much Thais! I love your blog and YOUare absolutely gorgeous!
Awesome about!
i love your blog. i found it this morning looking for healthy recipes for kids.
thank you so much. you have a wonderful family.
Awww, thank you SO much! I’m so glad you found me!
Hi Melanie! Wow, I love it when I stumble upon great blogs and I’m so happy I stumbled upon yours! I am looking forward to following. I just love the wonderful pics of your family….especially the last one of you and your 5 fabulous kiddos!!! I’d also like to invite you to come and visit me and my family at my new blog! Have a fantastic weekend!!!
Good Morning,
I just found you as a follower on my Twitter page. Your blog and story are super motivating, and your family is beautiful. I am so happy I found this! I also blog about a healthy lifestyle, but just started about 2 months ago. I’m also a teacher and dog mama of a golden retriever, Tucker. I can’t wait to visit your corner of the internet more often. Thanks for sharing!
I’m so glad you found my blog Jeanie! Thanks for your sweet words. I am going to check out your blog as well. I love dogs too! We have a sweet little Yorkie mix that I just love so much! I hope you have a wonderful day!
I love your blog!!!! I nominated you for the Beautiful Blogger Award.
http://lifewithadashofpepper.wordpress.com/2013/05/08/beautiful-blogger-award/
Thanks so much Pepper. You’re so sweet.