Clean Eating: Peanutty Peanut Butter Bars- Fixate Recipe

So--- I've been raving over these Peanutty Peanut Butter Bars for quite some time.

Sweet.  Not too sweet.  Just sweet enough.

It will satisfy your cravings, for sure.  The only kicker is: You must LOVE PEANUT BUTTER (But, come on.  Who doesn't love peanut butter? Unless your allergic.  And then I'm so sorry).

Here's the recipe.  SUPER DUPER EASY.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups all natural PB
1/2 cup raw or local honey
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 eggs
1/2 tsp baking soda

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350F

Mix all ingredients WELL.

Pour into a greased 8x8 baking pan.

Bake 20 mins.  They may feel soft coming out, but they will continue to bake.

ENJOY.  Easy peasy, lemon squeezy.

If you're interested in getting your hands on the FIXATE cookbook--- message me or click this link for my website!  If you're interested in joining one of my upcoming online health & fitness groups--- fill out my online application and I'll be in touch!

Battling Sinusitis

Life with Chronic Sinusitis.

I'm finding myself writing this post because for the past 5 weeks, I've been dealing with, what seems to be, a never ending cycle of a minor sinus infection.

It's not full blown like I've known some to be in the past, but it's just a full cycle that won't let up.

Sore throat.  Nasal Drip.  Congestion.  Sinus Headaches.  Stopped ears.

repeat that times 5 and see how you feel.

I've realized that unless you've dealt with Chronic Sinusitis then you have NO IDEA what we have to go through on a daily basis.

I haven't felt like myself in quite some time.

Here's a few things that I use to cope with my sinuses when they are acting up:

1. Neti Pot.  If you've been holding off because it scares the shit out of you---- buy it.  You'll be glad you did.  People (doctors, nurses, friends, co-workers) all suggested this and I always ignored them.  I wasn't down for having anything go up my nose.  I wish I would've bit the bullet sooner.

2. Peppermint Essential Oils- I swear it's something about peppermint.  It just seems to open me up--- and it calms me in an amazing way.  I diffuse it at night.

3. A great ENT doctor.  One who will work with you to help give you medication when all else fails.  I have an amazing one who lets me self-prescribe myself with an antibiotic. It's pretty amazing.  No more $$ spent at doctor visits every month!

4. A comfy bed and blanket.  Sometimes it's just acceptable to go to bed at 8PM on a weekend, or week day.  It doesn't matter.  Rest when your body needs rest.

Don't hesitate to reach out to me if you need help or want to talk.  I feel you.  I'm right there with you.  Some days I just wish my head would explode so I didn't have to feel it hurting anymore.


*my next step is a sinus surgery.  I actually may be planning it in the coming months.  i'll keep you posted

::weekend recap::

I follow a blogger who made a post this past week that really spoke to me. She basically said that she didn't care whether you liked her blog or read it. She doesn't blog for you (or me) but she blogs for herself. 

Wow. 

So many times I want to write the perfect post for you. I want that-- because if I can help just one person with whatever I'm talking about, then I feel like I'm making a difference and living for a purpose. But, it really boils down to ME. I can't blog for YOU, because, chances are I don't know you. I need to blog for myself. I want to blog for myself because I feel like it's a huge diary. It's something I can look back one in the future to see where I've been and how far I've come in life. I want to share my triumphs and setbacks. My happy moments and sad ones. 

To start it off-- I'm just going to share what went on this past weekend! My husband, Josh, was home.  That happens on rare ocassion. So- we took advantage of it! 

First up-- we did a little shopping on Saturday and I picked up this S'well bottle. A little boutique in town carries them, and I'd been wanting to give it a shot. So far-- so good. I got the big one-FYI! 

I also HAD to get my first Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season when my husband ended up at Starbucks! Of course- mine is iced with nonfat milk and no whipped cream. It may not be the healthiest, but it feels good knowing I'm cutting a few calories with my drink choice ;) 

The pups have a love/hate relationship with my phone. I tried taking a photo of Stella and Hudson got a little jealous. Needless to say-- I ended up with Huddy and no Stella pic! Ha. 

We then ended our weekend tonight celebrating my Mom and her birthday. Another year young! It was the perfect evening for Chili and Birthday Cake. Of course, mom requested my famous chili (I'll have to save a post for that another day)! Publix pulled through with the most delicious chocolate cake. Yum. 

That's it, folks. Now I'm going to watch a little Miss America Pageant and get ready for a week of work and a new health & fitness group to kickoff in the morning {goodness knows I need to get my nutrition back in check!} 

What did you do this weekend? 

Oh September.... keep me coming back for more

September.

The first month of what I call F A L L.  I can feel the cool crisp air in the mornings during my daily walk with the pups.  I know it's coming.  It's SO CLOSE.

I fall over fall.  It's my favorite.  It's what makes me happy.

Football.  Family.  Boots.  Sweaters.  Chunky, big sweaters.  Pumpkins.  Apples.  Coffee.  Blankets.  Snuggles.  Fall.

I'm a sucker over it.  Today makes me happy because it's the first step to turning the corner into fall.

When it comes to seasons-- what is your favorite?

XO,

National Dog Day

Yep.  I realize I am a day late.  If you follow me on Social Media-- of COURSE I didn't forget to post a snapshot of my two favorite {fur}babies.

I joked that Hudson is like "HUH? It's National DOG DAY?  I thought I was a HUMAN??!!"

Some days, I swear, Hudson is more emotional in a days work than I am in a whole month.

I SWEAR he's a female trapped in a boys body {SHHH... don't tell Josh that!!}

Regardless of that, our dogs are our HEART and SOUL and I can't imagine our life without them. 

It would be boring.  SO SO boring.  and lonely!

:::Here are our babes:::

 

XO,

Mac-N-Cheese with Broccoli & Chicken

Let's talk about Mac-N-Cheese for a minute here.

It's the best.  Like, my favorite meal.  I think I could eat it breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

But--- it has to be GOOD.  You know.  Those Mac-N-Cheeses that are bland and blah?  Not a fan of THAT.

So, anyways, there is a new cookbook out called FIXATE.  It's designed to highlight 101 recipes that all fit into the 21 Day Fix portion control Program.  If you don't know what that is-- then hang on and I'll explain.

The 21 Day Fix is a workout program AND an amazing portion control meal plan system that really brings together ALL of the food groups and teaches you proper PORTION SIZES so that you're not stuffing your face with carbs all day long and not getting any veggies in.  It's all about balance.  And portion.  And mixing up the food groups!
So-- the creator of The 21 Day Fix put together a collaboration of 101 recipes that ALL FIT IN THE FIX plan.... it's AMAZING!

Mac-N-Cheese was, OF COURSE, my first meal out of it.

It didn't disappoint.  I am used to whole wheat flour and my Husband isn't.  So, If you're NOT used to it, then the texture may be a LITTLE OFF in the sauce.  It doesn't matter to me, though.

So- here's the recipe!

Macaroni and Cheese with Broccoli and Chicken

 

Ingredients:

 

4 oz           dry whole wheat macaroni (or any pasta)

4 tsp          organic grass fed butter (or extra virgin coconut oil)

2 TBSP     unbleached whole wheat flour

1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk

1 1/4 cups freshly grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese

3 cups       cooked chopped chicken breast, boneless, skinless

4 cups       chopped broccoli florets, steamed

1 tsp          sea salt (or Himalayan Salt)

1/2 tsp       ground black pepper

 

Directions:

 

1.  Cook macaroni according to package directions. (do not use salt or oil if suggested).  Set aside.

2.  Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.

3.  Add flour; cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute, or until brown (don't let it burn!).

4.  Slowly whisk in almond milk; cook, whisking constantly for 1 to 2 minutes, or until mixture thickens and there are no lumps.

5.  Reduce heat to low.  Add cheese; cook, whisking constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes, or until melted.

6.  Add chicken, broccoli, salt, and pepper; cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute, or until heated through.

7.  Serve immediately.

 

 

High Five! It's FriYAY!

High Five! It's FriYAY! 

Today our office is closed in honor of Independence Day tomorrow---- so for that itself--- I'm thankful. With the wedding this year, honeymooning, and just a few other mini vacations, my "leave time" is slowly running out. So any paid vacation off work is A-OK by me ;) 

I'm also so proud of myself for keeping up with my workouts. This week I did Focus:T25, a little Turbo Fire, 21 Day Fix Ab workout, and also kept up with my Couch 2 5K schedule. Whew. Thats just about as exhausting as it sounds, but I'm so proud of myself. It's not easy getting in workouts daily when working full time among other things, but I'm so glad I'm in a place where it just comes natural and not forced!! Schedule those workouts, peeps!! It works!! 

This was me after the gym last night. We've had rainy weather, so I went with my Husband to our local YMCA so that I could use the treadmill for my C25K! I even ran 6 mins longer than I was supposed to.... Small victories! 

Thursday evening Josh and I rode to the town I live in to ride through the neighborhoods looking for houses for sale. We are in such a fun stage not READY to buy anything... We have a town home that fits us perfectly right now... But it's fun looking out for the future and figuring out what we want and what we don't want! 

Hudson even came along for the ride--- he can't pass up a good car RIDE!! Don't ever say the "R" word when you come over or you'll find yourself riding around the block with a dogs head stuck out the window. 

In a nutshell that's what sums up my week. It's been a good one but I'm physically exhausted and looking forward to a 3 day weekend to rest up!!

Happy 4th of July everyone! Have fun & Stay SAFE! 

XOXO, 

Confessions of a YO:YO workout program GIRL

Becoming a Health & Fitness coach has been hands down THA BEST thing I've ever done for myself, ever.  Well, aside from marrying my love in January.  But, this is different.  This is MY BABY, my coaching thing, something I have CONTROL over.

But---there is ONE NEGATIVE when it comes to health & fitness coaching---- I can't STICK to ONE SINGLE workout program.  I just can't.  I think it's a plague, or a disease, or something that's taken ahold of my body and I can't shake it.

I get SO HYPED about a program.  I commit to it.  I do it.  Then, I look to the right of me and see my other little programs staring me in the face.  I feel like I can't abandon them.  I need to give them my love and undivided attention.

It's sick.  I'm sick.  I think I have a serious problem.

But- I have come to ONE CONCLUSION.... a GOOD conclusion!

It doesn't matter if you switch up workouts, programs, etc.  It just MATTERS that you GET TO MOVING and get in daily exercise!!

Along with this----it's crucial to focus on your nutrition.  I've been there, done that, fallen off the path.  I've gained 10+ lbs since January.  What's changed?  Not my workouts, but my nutrition.  An oreo here, a milkshake there, 5 oreos here, a bag of white cheddar Cheetos there.... you get my drift. 

It ain't good.  It ain't pretty. 

Focus on MOVING...Focus on NUTRITION.

Everything else will be A---OKAY! 

21 Day Fix Extreme: Let's DO THIS

I'm all SET and ready to start another round {Okay, I'll be honest here.... I haven't completed a FULL round of The 21 Day Fix Extreme, yet!}... ouch that H U R T coming out!

But, I'm READY this go-round and I'm ready to bring it to see some amazing results. 

Day 1--- TODAY

Nutrition hasn't been ON POINT... but I'm working on it. My main goal is to get EVERY.SINGLE.WORKOUT in, through the pain... through the soreness.. through the tears. 

Tonight's workout: Plyo Fix Extreme.

I'm ready to PRESS PLAY as soon as I get home, so I won't be prone to skipping it.

**Along with The 21 DFE, I'll be continuing with my Couch to 5K program.  It's a side goal I've set for myself to complete and finish the program, so I'll be able to run a 5K (no plans of a 5K are set, but one is to come!)**

Have you done the 21 Day Fix or 21DFE?  Have you thought about doing it?  3 weeks y'all.. anyone can do something for 3 weeks ;)

 

XO,

CIZE: The end of exerCIZE

I wanted to give my honest opinion on the sneak peak program I have access to on Beachbody on Demand (basically a live stream of many workout programs!)--- CIZE. 

Before I dig into the workout details, a little history on the program, CIZE. It's created by Shaun T, the creator of the famous workout Insanity. It's a dance based program for all fitness levels from beginners to advance. It hasn't released YET, but it will be available mid July after our annual Beachbody Summit in Nashville! 

So, here's my opinion::: 

I was PUMPED to see the sneak peak in my Beachbody on demand catalog yesterday! I immediately switched my workout plan for the day to fit this in. The workout was around 42 mins, which actually flew by. Shaun T starts the workout slowly and teaches you moves that you continually add on throughout the workout. 

I felt "lost" a few times but that is to be expected. I feel like when I do it a few times, I'll have everything down pat. I did sweat, although not as much as some of the other workouts I'm used to doing! But, this was just 1 workout of the program. 

The verdict? LOVE.  I can't wait to get my hands on a copy in July!  Let me know if you want to get on the wait list for the program or if you want deets. Save the date for a CIZE online fitness group in August! We are going to end exerCIZE and get our groove on while having fun! 

// high five! it's friday //

Hip! Hip! Hooray!

So much has happened this week and there's so much I'm thankful for!  Josh and I are having a weekend get-a-way to a place we've both never been before, that's practically right in our backyard..... Beaufort, SC.

Anyone have any tips on Beaufort?  What to see?  Places to eat?  Things to do?  It will be a short trip, but one much needed and well deserved.

5 FAVS for this beautiful Friday:

1. Hudson and Stella were both groomed this week.  This was LONG overdue and they both look adorable in their fresh summer cuts.

2.  Josh took me out to Santa Fe... our favorite local Mexican restaurant.  I've been wanting Mexican for a while, so it was delicious and lived up to my expectation.

3.  I started yet another fitness CHALLENGE group on Monday!  I learned that a challenger from my last group lost 7 lbs and 16.5 inches in just 30 days!  THAT, my friends, is why I am a beachbody coach.  The workouts WORK and they cannot lie... ;) HA

4.  I had a follow up appointment with my Orthodontist since I've had my braces off.  Everything looked great, so I got a good praise report.  I go back in 6 months just for another check-up.  Hallelujah.

5.  Josh and I are OFF for a weekend get-a-way.  I don't even know how I'm at work today and focused, actually getting a few things done.  Take THAT haters. 


SO, what are your favorites from the week/weekend?  What are you thankful for?

XO,

Why the Gym Isn't for me!

Josh has been begging (okay, not really begging), but has been bringing up the subject of him joining a gym the past year or two.  I've been toying around with the idea and just wasn't digging it.  After all, I am a Beachbody Coach.  I live and breathe and BELIEVE wholeheartedly in at-home workout programs.  The gym isn't necessary and something I never wanted to step foot in again.

SO- I finally agreed to getting a gym membership, if we joined a gym that had ZERO contracts and that I actually liked.  So, we joined our local YMCA.  Josh used to go when he was in High School and I went until a few years ago.

So, we got all signed up.  We took our pictures, paid our "dues" and off we went.  Well, not before I asked if there was a spot I could stream my workouts on my phone and do my at-home workout AT the gym.  They said they had a "small spot" where I could do that.  It's in the middle of the gym.  Three people were already in the corner doing their thing.

It took me 2 minutes in the gym to realize I didn't belong in there.  I got on a treadmill and then got off and told Josh I was going home to do my workout and that I would be back to get him.

A wave of emotions rolled over me and I just couldn't help it.  For some-- the gym is a place of relaxation and a time where they can release and let go.  For me, it's a place of struggle and hard times, and honestly it's a place that I just don't fit in. 

Plus, I never got my results from a gym.  I got my results from my at-home workouts with my personal trainer telling me what to do every step of the way.

I hope I find somewhere inside of me the strength to go to the gym every so often with Josh.  It's just a struggle of mine that I will have to face in the days and months to come. 

I want to ask you---- are you a gym rat OR not?  Who loves it, who hates it?!

XO,

// high five! It's Friday! //

TGIF. TGIF! 

So, we know it's Friday, so let me get on about my favs for the week! 

1. I've lost 3 lbs in 3 days of The 21 Day Fix. Hallelujah. I've gained 10 lbs in the past few months since getting married. Isn't there a term for that? Well, multiple pairs of skinny pants no longer buttoned, so I knew it was time to buckle down and do a workout I KNEW worked! The FIX is my go-to for so many reasons and I KNEW it would "fix" me right up! 

2. I'm wearing this cute dress today by Lilly Pulitzer. It's the same dress I wore in Josh and my engagement pictures, and the honeymoon. I figured it was only appropriate for a casual Friday at work. ;) 

3. Our annual audit at work is coming to a close, so the work load is getting a lot better. For about 3 months, work was slight hectic. I give mad props to all the accountants working 15+ hour days right now during tax season. I'm blessed to not have to do that! 

4. Elizabeth (one of my coaches on my Dynasty Dreamers team) and I started our next fitness accountability group online--- Spring into Fitness! Ahhhh participation is already up and my heart is on fire! 

So, I only have 4 things to mention on here. Although I have a million things I'm thankful for on a daily basis! 

Stay tuned this weekend for a post dedicated to Watson Mills-- the state park Josh and I went to last weekend. I have lots of pictures to upload and hope to have some downtime tomorrow to do just that! 

Easter weekend Re-Cap

I've been meaning to do a little Easter Re-Cap and haven't had a chance. I had a blast with Josh and spent a little too much time out in the fresh air.... My allergies are getting the best of me so far this week and I'm hoping they pass quickly.

Friday--- I was off work for Good Friday. Hallelujah. I love a Good Friday off. Josh and I went to a cute little country restaurant called Grits and Groceries. Their food is to die for and it was Josh's first try. 

How cute is the chicken!? 

We then spent the rest of the afternoon shopping at Lowes for some spring flowers and for more fertilizer. Josh also picked up a cute bulldog. Even I approved of the purchase. We also soaked up the sun on the back patio complete with an ice cream truck treat! 

(Photo to come) 

Saturday, Josh and I took the pups to Georgia to Watson Mills State Park. I had never been and it was neat walking the trails, seeing the one lane bridge, and looking at the falls and river. We will definitely be back. 

Sunday was a refreshing day. We started out with our church Service, followed by a brunch and then a joint Sunday school class. Then, we headed over to Josh's grandaddys house where he washed his truck that he's got up for sale and I got in a Beachbody on Demand (#BOD) Chalene Extreme workout. We took the pups with us and they enjoyed the sunshine. 

We finished the day with a traditional Easter dinner and spent it with my family. 

Blessed is all I can say. 

// high five! it's friday! //

Happy Friday!  Can you BA LEAVE it's already Friday?  Time flies by when you're having fun and especially when the weather is gawgeous.... except for today.  Spring decided to revert back to winter and it's raining and chilly out!

Here are 5 of my faves from this week and what I'm looking forward to!

1.  I started a new workout program- ChaLEAN Extreme on Monday.  So far, so good.  I'm a little worried about this weekend's exercise plans because I'm travelling, but I'm committed to getting them in somehow.

2.  Josh and I had a rare weekday date last night.  We went to The Mill House (a local wood fire pizza place).  Josh got a yummy pizza and I opted for the chicken salad.  Both were delicious and I was actually craving a salad (I crave them from time to time).  There was a local musician that was playing that Josh and I both like, so that was an added bonus to the date.  I also had a glass of wine.  There's not much better than a good glass of pinot grigio.

3.  This weekend I am going to visit my Grandparents in North Carolina.  I don't get to see them and spend time with them near as much as I would like to. I'm going with my Sister and her cute fam, so I get to spend time with them as well (I'm most excited about Cooper time, to be honest).

4.  Josh and I cooked a kickass chicken artichoke pasta Wednesday night.  It's one of my faves that I have never made for Josh before.  Don't know why not, but that's about to change.  It was a huge hit and I am craving some right now.

5. The weather during the first part of the week was gorgeous and warm.  The pups and I got a few good long walks in during the evening, and I'm thankful for that!

What are your 5 Friday Faves?  Share below!

5 CLEAN EATING tips for beginners!

Today is Tuesday and it's not just ANY Tuesday. Today starts the first of many great things to come...  

Today is TIP TUESDAY! 

I'm here to talk about 5 tips to help a beginner start implementing and incorporating CLEAN FOODS into their diet! 

So, I started a 75/25 clean eating lifestyle just about two years ago. Although I strive to do my best day in and day out, I still LOVE what I call 'dirty' foods. That sounds so wrong, doesn't it!? Oh well. 

So, these are a few things that worked for me and that were EASY things I could do without too much work. Here they are! 

#1- STOP eating plain white bread. Choose 100% whole wheat OR whole grain. 

#2- REPLACE regular pasta with, again, whole wheat or whole grain pasta. 

#3- KNIX the soda. It's bad for you. You'll thank me later. Try flavored water with real fruit or try La Croix water if you need the carbonation 

#4- when grocery shopping, shop the perimiter of the store and not so much in the food aisles. This is the veggies, fruits, meats, and dairy. 

#5- when in doubt, if a food has over 10 ingredients or it has something you can't pronounce, just drop it. Don't waste your time, money, or health on it. 

Maybe you've already heard or read these before, maybe it's new to you. I hope that at least ONE thing I've mentioned is helpful. And for goodness sake, if you're just starting off and you drink 12 cans of coke a day, then please ease into this lifestyle. No one says you have to cut cold turkey (unless YOU want to, of course). This is a lifestyle change, not a fad. So, do what you can in your time. 

*please note that I'm not a nutritionist, expert, or a dietician. I am just a human who makes mistakes (ouch, that was hard to admit) 

Healthy Banana Bread

I wanted to make it a priority to take on a banana bread recipe and make it health{ier} than most recipes I've seen.  A lot are filled with sugar, butter, white flour, etc.  Although I LOVE those ingredients, they don't always love ME!

So, I did some Pinterest browsing and came across a recipe I decided to give a GO with.  The recipe I used came from The Cooking Doctor.  I followed the directions just as they were laid out, except I substituted 2 cups of whole wheat flour in place of the regular white flour.  I also added chopped pecans AND a little extra spice (a sprinkle of cinnamon).  YUM.

The reason why this recipe caught my attention was because of the limited amounts of sugar (only called for 1/2 cup) and only 1/4 cup of butter (which is half a stick).  It also used plain Greek yogurt, which is one of my favs and something I keep stocked in my fridge.

Here's the recipe (adapted to my substitutions)

Healthy Banana Bread

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45-60 mins
Yield: 1 loaf

Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
3 ripe large bananas
2 cups whole wheat flour
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
a pinch of salt
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
splash of cinnamon
chopped pecans (about a handful--add more if you like em'!)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350F.

Cream the butter and sugar in a mixer until blended and fluffy.

Add vanilla extract and then the eggs one by one.  Beat for another few minutes.

Add in the mashed bananas and then add in the yogurt.

Mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon) together in a separate bowl.  Once mixed, slowly add to the wet mixture.  Beat until combined.

Stir in the pecans and mix until well incorporated.

Pour into a greased loaf pan.  Bake for 45-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clear.


Notes: You can use regular flour instead of whole wheat, as was in the original recipe.  You can omit the nuts and go plain or you can add in chocolate chips.  Possibilities are endless.


The bread is a sweet treat, but not overly sweet like a cake.  To me, it's the perfect thing.  It's even better warmed with a lather of butter.  Try it, it's worth the extra calories.

Cardio and Cupcakes

Cardio and Cupcakes.  Two things that mold my life together.  Two things that I completely LOVE {and love to hate}.  Two things that are completely OPPOSITE.

I've been thinking for quite some time that I wanted to change my Business Page on Facebook.  It was The Good Life Blog, named after this exact blog I'm writing on today.  It worked out fine from the beginning, but as time went on, I feel like the business page didn't really represent ME.  I'm not a BLOGGER full-time (I strive at blogging once per week), so I felt like it didn't really represent who I was.

Cardio and Cupcakes.  That's ME.  I am a fitness lover.  I am a cupcake lover.  I do cardio to eat cupcakes.  Okay, not all of the time.  But, you won't find me turning down a cupcake very often.

As a fitness coach, which I am, I strive to eat clean 80% of the time.  To be honest, it's more like 60-75% of the time.  I love food.  I love sweets.  I love cupcakes.

But, on the other end of the spectrum, I do get a good high off of a great workout.  I love cardio.  I'm a cardio girl. 

It was ONLY FITTING to name my new brand-- Cardio and Cupcakes.

I hope you like it!

Stay tuned for tips/tricks/blog posts/etc. on my page!  be sure to follow me for the latest updates!

XO,

Flashback Friday: Weight Loss Style

A huge passion of mine (which you should be able to tell by this blog) is health & fitness.  I'm not an expert.  I'm not a professional.  I've just had a huge transformation and a huge desire in continuing my health and fitness in the years to come.

I try to workout at least 5 times a week.
I try to eat clean 80% of the time.
I am human.
I make mistakes.

At-home workout programs WORKED for me.  It's the ONLY thing that WORKED!  But, that does NOT mean you can't go to the gym, join a fitness club, etc. and get results.  EVERYONE is different.  I will say if you've tried a gym in the past and it hasn't worked out for one reason or another, give at-home workout programs a TRY.  You MAY just be highly surprised!

Here's a little flashback Friday into the life I grew to know.  The life of being overweight, feeling fluffy, getting worn-down after climbing the stairs, and to a life of always WONDERING what it would be like to be FIT for one time in my life.  Oh to dream... if only I knew where I'd be RIGHT NOW.

This was in 2008.  I was the Maid of Honor in my Sisters wedding.

 

A size 12.  Large.

 

This was in October 2014.  Size 4.  Small.

 

Share below your flashback Friday! XO,

 

High Five! It's Friday!

Another week has come and gone and one of my favorite days has finally arrived... FRIDAY!

I guess the only reason it's my favorite day is because it's the last day of the work week.  How sad is that?  It's not that I don't love my job.  It's just that when you are running on Day 5 of the same ole, same ole, you get TIRED and burned out!

Friday's used to be about going out, having fun with friends and staying out late.  Now, I'm lucky to be up at 10PM.  I think I'm just so drained, it's only natural for me to get to bed early.  Plus, my whole mindset has shifted.

Truth be told, I've never really enjoyed partying it up till 2AM.  I'm just not that girl.  If you are, then that's great! 

Here's a little fun facts about the week and some of my favorites:

1. It was Josh's 29th Birthday on Wednesday!  We celebrated the best way we knew how.....grilling out steaks (his fav!) and then finishing the night with a homemade (somewhat) strawberry cake.  Okay, let's be honest... I used a box cake mix but spruced it up a bit.  I DID whip up some homemade cream cheese frosting from scratch...take that Betty Crocker!

This is Josh from this past Sunday, celebrating his birthday with the rest of our family.  He had his favorite dessert of all time, cheesecake.

 

2. Josh and I got to enjoy the fresh air and warmer temps.  HELLO spring.  If it wasn't raining and cold today, I'd almost believe that SPRING is here to stay.  I love colder weather and the thought of snow, but I'm SO ready for warm weather.  I love both of them and I love that we get to experience 4 different seasons every year.  We are blessed, right?

3. Well, this hasn't happened yet, but I'm looking forward to Josh being home Saturday (tomorrow).  He's working tonight not far from home, so he will be home the rest of the weekend with me.  Let's just say when he's gone the whole weekend, I'm super bored and miss him tons.  YAY for spending time with him!

Okay---do you have any faves from the week or anything you're looking forward to this weekend?  I want to hear it!

XO,

Hematoma in Dogs

This past Tuesday, Josh texted me (hello modern technology) that Stella's ear was swollen.  I didn't think much of it.  I asked if it was her ear inside or what part of the ear.  He replied with "her ear flap".  Still not knowing a thing about health and well-being, I just shrugged it off.

Poor Stella has been through more in her short 3 years with me than any dog should ever go through in their whole time here on Earth.

When I got home from work that evening, Josh said she was fine, she just had fluid in her ear, and even jokingly asked if he could stick a needle in there and pop it!  I absolutely, 100% said NOOO!

I still wasn't really concerned (again, that's my naïve self!).  But, I did decide to do a little googling.  I googled "fluid in dog ear".  The results were scary.  Shocking.

Hematoma.

What in the world is this?  Apparently, it's a socket of blood that forms when a blood vessel bursts due to either: excessive shaking of the head, ear mites, ear infections, trauma, or dog fighting (goes hand in hand with dog fighting). 

Well, I knew she didn't have an ear infection.  But, I do know that Hudson (our 64 lb. goldendoodle who thinks he is Stella's size--- 12 lbs) likes to pounce on her and get her to play with him daily.  Stella isn't that playful (she's an older dog, mind you) and our 15 month old puppy doesn't get that.

So, the next day, Stella's ear got even BIGGER.... MORE FLUID= one freaked out dog mama!

I called immediately to our veterinarian and she was seen yesterday.  It is Hematoma.  The only thing they can do is Surgery, to drain it.

What's the problem you may ask?  Stella has Addison's Disease.  It's a disease where her body starts shutting down when she gets put in a stressful situation.  Surgery=MEGA stressful situation.  The last time she had surgery (the only time I've ever known her to have it) was not long before she went into a complete Addisonian crisis and almost died.

My heart is torn.  Right now we are icing her ear 3 times a day in hopes that it will stop expanding.  But, if not, then we will have to explore the idea of surgery.

I.AM.FREAKING.OUT.

Is this how it is with children?  Not sure if my heart can take it!  Do you have any experience with Hematoma in dogs?  What was your experience like, if so?  Give me some tips!

XO,

2015 bikini bootcamp

Here I am, typing the words 'bikini bootcamp' in February.  Who am I?  What have I become?

I used to cringe at the word BIKINI and throw it in the back of my mind for as long as possible.  At least until SUMMER arrived. 

I LOVE summer.  I LOVE pools.  I LOVE the beach.  But, what I HATE(D) the most was having to put on the dreaded bathing suit.  I can't even say the words bikini, because up until a year ago I don't think I ever owned one (aside from the one I'm not even sure my Mom had for me when I was about 2 years old).

I lived in tankinis.  I didn't want a ONE PIECE, because *gasp* in High School, I didn't want to be thought of as the FAT KID (even though I was!) So, I always had different tankinis.  So unflattering, so unhappy.

I HID behind my cover-ups and only took them off to jump in the pool.  It was miserable.  No, I'm not knocking the people who wear tankinis.  I'm not knocking the people who are a little overweight.  If you're happy, I'm happy. I think that's all that matters.

So, I wasn't happy.  I was very insecure.  I so badly wanted to change. 

Here I am.  I look like a million bucks (okay, maybe only like $500,000), but I'm improving daily and I've found a program and routine that literally WORKS for me.  I don't have to fight the 5:30 gym rush to knock someone out for trying to take the last treadmill.  I don't have to worry about forgetting my workout clothes (one day when I went to the YMCA I forgot my sports bra.  So I had to do ZUMBA in my regular bra.  Talk about major BUMMER-- this is a TRUE story BTW).  So, now I workout when I want to---whether it be 5 AM or 9 PM.  I wear whatever the hell I want to.  Not up for shoes today?  That's fine!  Plus, I'm surrounded EVERYWHERE by people who encourage and support me.  Sometimes it can get annoying seeing others working out when I have ZERO interest, but then I get over myself and push play. I never regret that!

So, I'm here to invite YOU to my BIKINI BOOTCAMP group.  It starts pre-season March 2nd (it officially kicks off March 9th)!  It's a 30 day group, where you WILL see results if you stick to it like you're supposed to.  We will be doing The 21 Day Fix Original OR the Extreme and we are going to be bikini ready BY May 1st!

This group is for people who are INSECURE.  People who are UNHAPPY.  People who want to make a CHANGE.

If you're interested in joining, head over to my personal FB page HERE and send me a friend request and then PM me. 

If you're READY to order your FIX, then use the following links depending on the program:

The 21 Day Fix (original)
The 21 Day Fix Extreme

READY. SET.  LET'S DO THIS!

XO,

Darling, I'll be loving you til' we're 70

Life has finally, SOMEWHAT, settled down.  I guess enough to do this blog post.

I want to give a huge shout-out {again} to my ah-mazing photographer, Casey Mlinar with Blissful Photography.  Not only is Casey an incredible friend, she's also super talented and from what I've seen (my wedding photos aren't completely edited, yet), she's captured our special day just as we imagined.

Today I want to share with you a few of my favorite photos from my Bridal Portrait Session.  Photos were taken by Casey Mlinar with Blissful Photography and they were taken at the farm at John De La Howe.

The morning of this session, I slightly freaked.  It was an October day (naturally you would think cooler temps), but it rained most of the morning which turned into HOT and HUMID weather for the evening.  Regardless of that, my pictures turned out stunning!

I hope you enjoy.  Let me know what you think!

 

 

 

XO,

The 21 Day Fix Extreme

Here's Folks, tomorrow is the day! 

My 21DF Extreme arrived Friday and I am starting tomorrow, Monday February 9th and for the next 3 weeks I'll be sticking to the FIX eating plan and workouts. 

I'm going to keep things real with you. I plan on following the program to a T, but if I don't, I will be open and honest about my journey. 

I completed the original 21 Day Fix and absolutely loved my results. Even after the first week, I felt lighter, more energized and saw the lbs fall off. 

I'm expecting the Extreme program to give me even better results (and I hope to lose my muffin top and flatten my tummy for GOOD). It's my trouble area (poo!) 

Here's me holding the new FIX EXTREME Workouts. There are 7 workouts (Plyo, upper, lower, cardio, Dirty 30, Pilates and yoga).  All workouts are 30 minutes and il be eating about every 2.5-3 hours. 

Stay tuned for more updates! 

Tomorrow night I'm fixing a healthified pork roast, so I'll let you know how that turns out! 

XO,

High Five! It's Friday!

Wahooo!! It's FRIDAY.  There are 8 days till Josh and I get MARRIED!

I'm so excited for this weekend.  Josh is going to be home, we have a date night planned for tomorrow, and I am finishing up last minute wedding things.  Thank goodness for a FREE weekend!

I love this quote:

Life throws us TONS of curveballs.  It's up to YOU what you do with it.  We are all BORN to sparkle!  We are meant to SHINE!  But, we have curveballs that try knocking us down along the way.  Some people face things in their lives (heartbreak, heartache, death, job loss, etc.) and it's EASY to let people's feelings and actions get the best of you.  But, DON'T!  It's the devil trying to interfere.  Take a deep breath and collect yourself.

SO, don't let anyone dull your *SPARKLE*

XO,

5 things to do the WEEK of your wedding!

My wedding is in 9 days. 9 days, people. We are down to the single digits!

I'm going to give you the low-down on things I've learned along the way and especially what I'm learning right NOW! 

The 5 things you need to know the week of your wedding. 

1. You will be crazy busy and stressed out. If you have a full time job, your mind will be other places while on "the clock". Tread through the time, because honestly what else are you going to do? 

2. Make a LIST of all of the small things that are left to do. All of the big stuff is usually done early on. The last week you will be running around getting the small stuff done. 

3. Remember WHY you are getting married. This wedding isn't just a big party. It's about you and your fiancé and the love you share for each other. Stop and smell the roses and don't lose sight of the reason you are doing this in the first place. 

4. Go with the flow. Things will not go as planned. Someone won't do what they are supposed to. But, remember things always happen for a reason, so just roll with it. What else are you going to do? 

5. RELAX. Enjoy your wedding week and soak in every. Single. Thing. That you can. You only get this chance once in your life, so do what you can to make the most of it and to really enjoy and love every minute of your days. 

I guess I need to go practice what I preach, because it's easier said than done. At the end of the day, I'm marrying the love of my life and I couldn't be more ecstatic. 

                    XO, 

The 21 Day Fix

Are you tired of hearing about my workout stories?  You probably just click through my newsfeed if you follow me on facebook, like "YEAH YEAH there's another one of those selfie pics".  You don't have to lie.  It's okay.  It won't hurt my feelings.

BUT-

If for some reason you aren't tired of hearing about them or if you don't have a CLUE what I'm talking about, then THIS post is FOR YOU!

I want to tell you about my FAVORITE (well ONE of my favorite) workout programs.  And, yes.  I have more than 1 program to compare it to.  I am in no way an expert at ANY workout programs or health/nutrition.  This is just an opinion of a normal person, who struggles daily with working out and proper nutrition. 

I have INSANITY, Focus T25, Les Mills Pump, Slim in 6, PiYo, Brazil Butt Lift and The 21 Day Fix.

These are all Beachbody Programs and I AM a Beachbody Coach.  I love the programs, I received amazing results with doing 1 round of INSANITY and I decided I wanted to help others by mentoring them during their journey with at-home workout programs.

So, MY favorite program...... The 21 Day Fix.

It works every.single.time.  Here are the TOP 5 Reasons why THE FIX is my favorite program.

1. It's a 3 week program and it's designed to give you results (losing up to 10 lbs in just 3 weeks).  It works, folks.  Just a week into the FIX, I always feel amazing and see lbs already dropping.

2. The workouts are only 30 minutes.  Who has time for 1 hour+ workouts EVERY DAY?!  NOT me.  I'm in and out in 1/2 hour.  Easy Peasy.

3. The workouts are almost like a circuit.  You do a set of 60 second moves twice and then you move onto something else.  When you break it down to just 60 seconds, even the hardest exercises are totally do-able.  Each workout leaves me drenched in sweat, yet by minute 5 I'm not about to DIE (like I was in Insanity)

4. The nutrition plan is SO SIMPLE.  Yes, when you first get it and you look at the itty bitty containers and when you finish your freak out sesh (thinking you can only eat 1 of each container per day), you will read the guide and figure out that you get much, much more than that.  You eat a TON throughout the day.  All non-processed foods, proteins, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, etc.  There are TONS of options as far as what food you decide to eat in each category.  Do you HATE fish, like me?  FINE, you don't have to choose fish as your protein. 

5. It's at a great price.  You can get everything you need to lose 10+ lbs in 3 weeks for $140.  WOAH, nelly!  This is $140 for just 3 weeks?  Nope.  You can do UNLIMITED rounds of The 21 Day Fix.  This isn't a one time, throw away and you're done thing.  This is something you will get to keep with you forever.

Oh---another thing I love?  The workouts are all done AT-HOME or wherever the heck you are!  If you travel, all you need to do is pack up the DVDs and hit the road.  No worrying about finding a gym or using the small hotel gym!

Please let me know if you have any questions about this program, or any of the others one's I mentioned.  It's my job to talk to others and to help others through their journeys, so I'd LOVEEEE to chat with you!