A while ago I mentioned that I had some resolutions for the new year and I intended to write about them. Here’s a quick recap:

1. Empty my house. I’m just so tired of owning stuff.

2. Writing. Word by word, the memoir is getting written.

3. Health. Well, sigh. That’s a tough one and the main focus of this post.

In general, I haven’t been living a healthy lifestyle these last few years. As a working mom, it’s hard to find the time to get everything done and exercise is usually one of the first things I let slide. Cooking a healthy dinner is another. And the snacking. Oh, for the love, the snacking. I have a lot of changes to make and an opportunity arose to work with ZonePerfect in their Blog Forward campaign. Naturally, I jumped on it.

The great thing about ZonePerfect bars is that they are quick fuel for those times when I’d otherwise forget to eat. You would think someone like me (that is, overweight) doesn’t forget to eat often, but on weekends when I’m running like a chicken without a head, stopping for a meal or a healthy snack doesn’t happen. I probably would not have purchased a giant box full of bars, mostly because I wouldn’t want to spend the money and then find I didn’t like them. I received a box of 25 bars as part of the campaign and I got to try many varieties. I have to tell you, they’re pretty tasty.

In particular, I liked the ones with coconut. The yogurt and fruit flavors are also delicious. Fudge Graham was another hit. They pack a nice amount of protein and the calories aren’t out of control. They certainly satisfy hunger. There is one line, the Zone Perfect Simple line, that boasts fewer ingredients. The cranberry almond one and the toasted coconut are definitely ones I’ll pick up in the future to keep on hand.

Since I’m a complainer, I will tell you what I didn’t like about the bars. First, and I know this might sound crazy, but I’m not a huge chocolate fan. I mean, I like chocolate, but I’m not all gotta-have-it about the stuff. So given that there are so many chocolate varieties and less non-chocolate (or so it seems to me), the options that would be my favorites are a little more limited. But if you like chocolate, there are definitely many flavors for you to choose from.

Second, peanuts. I hate peanuts and I hate peanut butter. I find all snack bar brands to be big on the PB. Again, if this is your thing, then you will be happy. It just isn’t mine.

Finally, and here’s where you’re going to think I’m crazy, there is just so much chewing. These are hearty and satisfying bars. They are hefty. There were some times when I couldn’t finish a whole bar because there was just so much chewing. Yes, I’m that lazy. But they hold up nicely to finish the bar the next day, so even my negative isn’t really a negative. Maybe I’m losing my complainy touch!

All in all, I think the bars will be a helpful addition in my journey towards healthier eating. Having a quick and satisfying snack at the ready certainly can’t hurt, right?

Another part of the Blog Forward campaign is to include a letter to my future self. I am not one to write letters to myself, so I’m just going to dive right into that challenge and pretend I don’t feel awkward doing so. Here goes:

Dear Future Me:

Hey, what’s up? I hope you’re not still fat. Haha, kidding. Sort of. Seriously, did you get your act together? I hope so. You need to be strong and healthy to watch your kid grow up, write your memoir, and empty your house.

Wait a second, how old are you now Future Me? If this is 6-months from now Me, it’s fine if you didn’t accomplish this stuff yet. But if you’re 5 years from now Me and this stuff still isn’t done, what the what?! Come on, Me. You had 3 goals in 2014. I’m disappointed in you.

Oh. This letter was supposed to be encouraging. If you did the stuff, yay you! And I know you did because Present Me was pretty adamant that this stuff would get done. Past Me was the one all about slacking off. I hope you’re on to newer goals and newer challenges. You better be.

Don’t let us down, Me. Keep growing, or some other inspirational message. Also, work on your pep talks.

Kind regards,
Present Me.

And now the other obligatory thing:

Mandatory disclosure is required for every program-related post. Although I have entered the program and received complimentary product and ZonePerfect promotional items, I am free to comment about ZonePerfect in a positive, neutral or negative fashion.

What do you think? Have you tried ZonePerfect bars? Do you have a tried-and-true tip for balancing health and all the other stuff in life? Start a conversation in comments.

Featured image credit: zoneperfect.com