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Games For A Backyard BBQ

FitSugar — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 03:00:00 -0700

Have you been to a BBQ where folks just sit around drinking beer and talking about beer and drinking more beer? So boring and so sedentary!!! My response to this is to dust off some of those old games from your youth and get up and play! I am not saying these games are huge calorie burners, like these ideas from Get Moving This 4th Of July, but they will keep you from becoming glued to a lawn chair and drinking too much beer. Plus they are fun!

Here are some games I will be playing with my kids and party guests. Yes, these games are not just for kids.

Potato Sack Races - Since potato sacks are hard to come by these days you can use old pillow cases for little kids, or old sleeping bags for adults.
Wheel barrow races - Remember this one? I rocked it as a kid and I am hoping to win today. It is like a supported plank in motion. You might want to warm up a little before this one!
Water balloon toss - This one requires no explanation, but what fun on a hot day!!!
Egg Spoon Relay Race - Balance hard boiled eggs on a soup spoon (or a wooden spoon to make it easier) and race to the line to gently hand off the egg to your relay team partners . All unbroken eggs can be used to whip up some Not So Devilish Eggs
Simon Says - Always popular with the kids, but getting adults to act like a chicken - priceless.

Don't forget the horseshoe toss, badminton (it IS an Olympic sport after all), or all the fun to be had passing around a Ball Ice Cream Maker.

Are you going to play some games at your BBQ? Let me know your faves in the comments section below.

What's the Deal With Cornhole?

FitSugar — Tue, 20 May 2008 12:00:00 -0700

You may have noticed it at the beach, your cousin's barbecue, or the graduation party you went to last weekend. It may just look like adults playing bean bag toss, but it's more than that: It's cornhole.

Cornhole has been, dare I say, sweeping the nation, and it makes a great Memorial Day activity because it's generally pretty portable and basically anyone can play. A cornhole set consists of two boards with a hole in them, placed about 30 feet apart, and eight bags filled with corn kernels. The basic object of the game is to get a bag into the hole, though points are awarded for just getting a bag on top of the board. You can buy cornhole sets at most major sporting goods stores or online (the one pictured is pricey at $200, but you can get them for less). It's not the most active of all backyard games, but it does get you up and moving.

Yes, I agree, it sounds a lot like bean bag toss for adults, but I know from personal experience that calling it bean bag toss does not sit well with serious cornhole players. For simple steps on how to play, just read more.
Here's how to play:

You'll need 2 teams of 2 people each. (Or two teams with one person on each team.)
Set up the cornhole boards 27ft / 9yds from front to front.
You need a total of 8 bags. 4 bags for each team.
It doesn't really matter which side you or your teammate stand, as long as you're throwing to different boards.
Flip a coin to determine which team goes first.
Start throwing one bag at a time. Opponents alternate throws each time.
The team that collects the most points after each round, throws first next round. If the score is tied or there is no score after the round, then the throw alternates teams from the previous round.
Scoring:
Each bag on the board's surface counts as one point.
Each bag in the board's hole counts as three points.
After each round, subtract the number of points from the team with the fewest points from the score of the team with the most points. The resulting number is the score that goes to the tally.
The game is over when the first team's tally reaches 21 points. You do not have to win by any number of points, nor does it matter if you go over 21.
11-0 is a skunk.

So get a set and start practicing for this year's barbecue. Are you already a cornhole fan? Tell us below.

Fit and Fun Engagement Parties

FitSugar — Tue, 12 May 2009 03:00:00 -0700

Weddings call for many celebrations, but all those parties don't need to be formal affairs. There are many fun ways for you to celebrate your engagement and bring guests together without having to stress about seating arrangements. Here are a few of my ideas for healthy and fun engagement parties.

Garden party: In my mind, a garden party is just a little more formal than a BBQ, but games are a featured activity nonetheless. You can play badminton and croquet. The Italian lawn game bocce ball is a fun way to engage (pun intended) guests of all ages. I also like that the Italian word for kiss, bacio, sounds a lot like bocce - it adds a romantic twist to the game.

Healthy cooking class: Many chefs, restaurants, and catering companies offer hands-on cooking classes, where every guest gets to play chef. Guests are placed into small groups to prepare different dishes. At the end of the class, you all sit down to eat the feast you created. Many of these schools allow you to participate in planning the menu, so you can opt for healthier fare.

See my third idea when you read more.

Square dance: How long has it been since you have been to a square dance? Not only does a square dance offer the perfect opportunity to wear your fave cowboy boots, but you will also burn some serious calories while you do-si-do. This is a great way for everyone to mingle.

Need more wedding inspiration? Check out all of the Sugar network’s wedding coverage here.

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What's the Deal With Ladder Golf?

FitSugar — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:30:00 -0700

Backyard games are a way of making a BBQ fun, instead of sedentary. To keep yourself from lounging with beer bottle in hand, you should investigate Ladder Golf ($100), aka Blongo. The word golfis a little misleading because there are no clubs or holes involved in Ladder Golf, and sorry, no golf carts either. It's a game of hand-eye coordination, but I'd explain it more as a glorified tossing game, similar to horseshoes.

For Blongo, there are two goals (that look like laundry drying racks) and two teams. The game is played in rounds and each player on the team alternates throwing three bolas (also called BlongoBalls), which are short nylon ropes with a golf ball attached to either end. Each team's objective is to toss the bolas in such a way that the BlongoBall gets stuck on a ladder rung. Points are determined by which rung your bola hangs from, and the team that reaches an exact score of 21 is the winner. Check out laddergolf.com for the official set of rules and etiquette.

OK, so I admit that this game involves about as much action as a game of Bocce Ball or Croquet, but at least you're tossing a ball-like thing instead of tossing chips into your mouth. Plus any kind of game that gets you on your feet is good in my opinion.

If you want to see this game in action then read more.

Have any of you ever played Ladder Golf? Tell us what you think in the comments section below.

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Fab Finding Follow-Up: Sunday Football

FabSugar — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:00:22 -0700

Last weekend, my friend threw a Sunday Football bash and I asked you to help me find a cute casual look for the festivities. Sure enough, I indulged in sinful cheesy dips and BBQ wings, but no regrets here. That's what exercising is for, right? I had so much fun, I even stopped by my parents' house and joined my dad in watching the evening game.

I started you off with these Falke Striggings Arm Warmers ($29) because they were sporty and cozy. Let's see what you all came up with!

Look #1, created by maria212134, is all about sporty fun. Those vintage Chucks are dope, and I'll skip the cute cardigan since I have my trusty arm warmers.

Giles & Brother Tiny Horseshoe Studs - shopbop.com	Marc by Marc Jacobs - Dr. Q Lil Riz, Purple - eLUXURY
New York Giants Logo Pin	Converse Limited Edition Converse by John Varvatos Vintage Slip-On - shopbop.com
UrbanOutfitters.com > BDG Double Stripe Cardigan	UrbanOutfitters.com > BDG Halflight Sheer V Neck Tee
J Brand 10" Ankle Skinny Stretch Jean - shopbop.com	Falke Striggings Arm Warmers ($29)

To see the rest, read more.

Look #2, created by kendallina, is great for lounging. I love the vintage-inspired football jersey.

Gold Hammered Metal Hoops - Old Navy	Dogeared Gold Wishbone On Chain at Pink Mascara
Hype black python embossed leather 'Vadim' Tote at Bluefly	Falke Striggings Arm Warmers ($29)
Victoria's Secret - Old school white football tee	UrbanOutfitters.com > Sparkle & Fade Legging	UrbanOutfitters.com > Converse All Star Low

Look #3, created by hil34, has a collegiate vibe. This time, I would stack the arm warmers over the long-sleeved cardi.

Collette Maryjane	Bluefly - New Designer Handbags at discount prices at Bluefly.com - #300955802 - Yves Saint Laurent steel metallic goatskin 'Y-M
Lutz & Patmos Long Slouch Cardigan	Striped Sweater Dress
J Brand 10" Ankle Skinny Stretch Jean - shopbop.com	Falke Striggings Arm Warmers ($29)

Lovely Links, 9/25

BellaSugar — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:45 -0700

Are you vain on social websites? Jezebel comments on the results of a recent study: the more Facebook friends you have, the more narcissistic you might be.
Makeup and Beauty Blog wonders if you'd take life advice from Gwyneth Paltrow.
The Beauty Brains figures out how much perfume would cost if it were gasoline. Angel by Thierry Mugler for $11,530, anyone?
Now Smell This wants to know what "cashmere sweater fragrances" are your favorite.
Got a straw? Well, sip your way to healthier skin with Babyassface.
Beauty Snob prefers smelling like vanilla, not bbq pit.
Specktra wonders if you've done the egg-on-the-face mask.
Find out what happens when you take a man and put him at a Nintendo-sponsored beauty event. Can he focus on his electronic game device or is he lured into the spa-like treatments?

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Fitness Gear for Your Yard

FitSugar — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 04:30:00 -0700

There are thousands of ways to play outside in the Summer months. Here are some fitness gear and games for your yard or a park BBQ that may not burn as many calories as going for an hour long bike ride, but they're fun for the whole family.
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Posh and Becks Have a Winning Weekend

PopSugar — Mon, 26 May 2008 06:01:21 -0700

David Beckham showed off his Lakers loyalty by showing up to another playoff game vs. the San Antonio Spurs in LA this weekend. He left his yellow team gear and boys at home this time for a little date night with Victoria instead. The Lakers won their second game in a row, but the Beckham luck didn't end there. Yesterday David took the field with the Galaxy against the Kansas City Wizards and helped lead the team to a 3-1 victory. Seems like quite the happy Memorial Day weekend, and hopefully the whole family is celebrating the big wins with a traditional American bbq.

More of Becks in the stands and on the field, so just read more

View 14 Photos ›

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You Asked: My Husband Won't Disconnect From His Friends

DearSugar — Thu, 29 May 2008 06:00:00 -0700

Dear Sugar,

I'm really bothered by the fact that my husband enjoys spending quality time with his single guy friends unannounced while he leaves me at home with the kids as if he's single. We've tried to compromise and organize a schedule where he can plan ahead to spend time with them, but for some reason we're not getting anywhere. When I want to do things as a family, he always invites his friends to tag along and expects me to tell him every time we do something as a family that I just want it to be us.

I end up getting upset when they tag along, and then when I try to let him know how I feel, he blows up in my face and gets defensive. I just wish he would make an effort to make plans for us instead of having me do all the work while he just goes with the flow. What's worse is that he sometimes acts like it's a chore to do something together. What do I do? Please point me in the right direction. What could I be doing wrong?

- Aggravated Ann

To see DearSugar's answer, read more.

Dear Aggravated Ann,

There are multiple issues here, so I think trying to work on just one of them - you mention a schedule so he can spend time with his friends - isn't going to solve the overall problem, which seems to be his dependence on his friends. I completely agree that having some real family time is important, but obviously your husband is having a difficult time letting go of his bachelor ways.

Instead of getting frustrated when he asks if his friends can come along every time you plan something, head him off at the pass. Let him know that going forward he should assume that a family outing is just that: a family outing. However, compromise is key, so every once in a while, work together to come up with plans that involve his friends too: a BBQ, a volleyball game at the park, etc. Perhaps being so reliant on a schedule is actually deterring your husband from sticking to the "rules." Let him have his spontaneity. That doesn't mean he should just decide to leave without letting you know, but giving him a little more leg room might make him feel less trapped.

If you continue to run into these issues, I recommend speaking with a family counselor. Your husband's attachment to his friends over his family is definitely something that needs to change. Perhaps he's dealing with some fears of commitment that are showing themselves in this way. Either way it's important to handle it before your resentment becomes too much to bear for either of you.

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FREE STUFF! Plus, Interview With Marty From The Biggest Loser

FitSugar — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 09:30:00 -0700

The folks over at Wrigley's asked me to interview Marty from the Biggest Loser, Season Three, and I love that show so I jumped at the opportunity.

In return for getting a few great tips from Marty, I get to give 10 Walk and Chew Gum Sets (gum, a water bottle, a pedometer and a Biggest Loser DVD) away free to you guys. To be eligible, just leave a comment below - no duplicates please. I'll randomly select 10 winners on September 26th, 2007 at 5:00 pm PST. You do need to be a TeamSugar member to comment. So if you're not already a member, just register here for an account and to join in all the fun on the Sugar Sites!

Click here for official rules and regulations.

Now, to see my little chat with Marty, including how he went from loving BBQ ribs to lettuce wraps, just read more

Fit: What is your new favorite exercise and new favorite meal?
Marty: I really don't have any sort of favorite exercise, I just like moving in general now! Some of my favorite things to do to get in my cardio are: Stair stepper, I do it usually for 20 minutes and it is intense. Spin Classes, they are a great way to get your mind off the workout and feel good about yourself. Tennis, I enjoy getting competitive and playing tennis with AMY! I usually win! My favorite healthy meal now is chicken lettuce wraps!! mmmmmmm.

Fit: What was the hardest food for you to give up and is there a healthier alternative you've replaced it with?
Marty: I was a BBQ rib and baked potato kind of guy. I liked a full rack of ribs and the potato loaded with cheese, sour cream and bacon bits. I do not really have a healthy alternative for the ribs now a days, I just limit how often I eat them (maybe once a month), but the potato I have substituted for a sweet potato. If you are out to eat and want to make a healthier choice, get a sweet potato and ask for no butter and cinnamon on the side. I sprinkle the cinnamon on it and open a sugar substitute packet and put it on the potato for a sweet cinnamon treat! That has been a change for the better!

Fit: What was the one thing that kept you grounded during the show and why?
Marty: I really tried to focus on what I was learning and make the most of the opportunity! I knew I could go home at any time, so I focused on changing myself rather than "playing a game."

Fit: What were (are) your biggest weight loss obstacles now that you've been dieting on your own?
Marty: Maintenance is difficult, because you realize the battle is not over and there is no finish line. The largest obstacle is getting back on track after a cheat day. I schedule my time at the gym in the morning the day after, and make sure I go. I always feel better after a workout and get re-energized and focused on my goals. That is why I decided to become a personal trainer and start a company (realitywellnessinc.com), so I can help others overcome obstacles and be the accountability they need.

Fit: What happens when the cameras stop rolling?
Mary: The same as the camera shows! Working out, and eating! There was never much time to do anything else.

Fit: What's your advice for anyone reading this that is trying to lose weight?
Marty: Don't wait for the Biggest Loser to come along to start changing your life. Start today by taking small steps and making small changes every day. One thing that can make a difference is to log onto gumisgood.com and sign up for Wrigley's Walk and Chew Gum Challenge. Everyone needs a support system, and this is a good way to get motivated and work toward a meaningful goal with others! Wrigley's Walk and Chew Gum Challenge is a great program that challenges Americans to collectively cut 10 million calories and walk 100,000 miles. While it sounds like a hefty goal, it's about making two small changes to your daily routine over the next 100 days - walk more steps each day and cut calories from your diet by chewing Extra sugar-free gum instead of eating a high-calorie snack.

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