I noticed a home workout on TV where the trainer used water bottles (16.9-ounce bottles of water) to show exercises that you can do at home. The bottles probably represented 3-lb. or 5-lb. free weights, but I'm not sure. In any case, she showed a functional fitness routine that looked easy and fun.

In one exercise, the trainer lifted the bottles up on a diagonal with outstretched arms, then took them down as she went into a squat. She also did one-arm rows holding a bottle leaning forward with a flat back. For the core, she stretched her arms straight out to her sides (without the bottles) while rotating or turning her mid-section, alternating from side to side.

I do some exercises at home too, particularly crunches/sit-ups while I'm watching or listening to the TV. Last night, I placed by feet up on an ottoman, made sure the small of my back was touching the floor, and did four sets of 25 crunches. I took a slight break between sets. I always make sure my back is stabilized on the floor and that my hands are touching the back of my head. I noticed when I focus on lifting my torso up as a unit and look at the ceiling, I get a more complete engagement. I try not to lift and lead with my neck. I want to feel my abs actually doing the work.

I am looking for a better way to target and tone the lower abs. Anyone have any suggestions?

With winter temperatures finally settling in, I was craving a nice, hearty meal so last night I made whole-wheat fusili with homemade tomato sauce that I had prepared over the weekend. Whole-wheat pasta (1 cup) has about 197 calories and it was very tasty. I'm not certain how many more calories were added with the sauce, but the dish was delicious and a wonderful treat after a long day.