Thursday, October 3, 2013

Turbo Fire Chili!!!!!

Okay ladies & gents, in case you weren't already aware, it's Fall!!  My favorite season!  I love everything about it! The crisp air, colored leaves, cool breeze and warm sunshine! NOTHING beats a walk with the pups on a beautiful fall day!  Then there's the wardrobe!!  Sweaters, scarves, tall boots, skinny jeans <3 <3 <3

And the food?!?!  Hot chocolate, pumpkin flavored EVERYTHING, spiced teas, soups & stews and of course, who can forget, CHILI!!!

This chili recipe is a MUST-TRY.  Not only is it easy to make (I love anything I can toss in a crockpot and forget about!) & delicious to eat... it's HEALTHY!  This is from Chalene Johnson's TurboFire meal plan.  Seriously, give it a try!



Ingredients:
1 lb lean ground turkey
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
8 oz. whole kernel corn, canned
1/2 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves
8 oz black beans, canned
8 oz pinto, chili or kidney beans, canned
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 package Lawrey's Chili seasoning
4 oz low-fat shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Brown turkey.  Drain and discard any fat. Place all ingredients except cheese into a slow cooker.  Cook for 4 hours on low, or 2 hours on high.  Top with 1 oz. cheese, if desired.
(makes 4 servings!)


There you go! So good!  I actually top mine with some sliced avocado (because I"m obsessed with avocado) instead of cheese, mmmmmmm!  Let me know what you think!!!  Or share your favorite chili recipe, I am ALWAYS looking for new healthy options!








Thursday, September 12, 2013

Pumpkin Protein Muffins - A Yummy Fall Treat :)

I love everything fall, especially anything pumpkin or pumpkin spice flavored :)  I stumbled upon this delicious and HEALTHY muffin recipe!  So good and no guilt! :)  I just had to share with everyone!!



Ingredients:
1 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
1/2 cup plain nonfat greek yogurt
3 egg whites
1 3/4 cup old fashioned oats
1/4 cup protein powder (I used vanilla flavored)
1/2 cup baking stevia
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, almonds, raisins or dried cranberries

Instructions:
1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.  Line a 12 cup muffin pan with foil cupcake liners or spray with non stick cooking spray.

2. Mix together all ingredients

3. Divide mixture evenly into muffin tins.  Please in pre-heated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until tops are lightly golden brown.

*Note, this batter is very moist, a toothpick may not come out clean... Don't worry, it is baked through if the tops are golden brown!* :)

4. Cool muffins slightly before removing from pan.

Hope you enjoy them! I eat two each morning with an egg white scramble...yummm :)

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Skinny Squash Alfredo & Cauliflower Garlic Bread

You know those nights that you whip up a delicious meal for your family, boyfriend, friends... whoever!!! And you're staring at it thinking "I'd have to run for an hour on the treadmill just to BEGIN to burn that off but it just looks so darn GOOD!!!"?  Yeah, not fun. It's hard sometimes to make healthy choices when unhealthy choices are staring you straight in the face!!  I mean, you've spent an hour cooking this meal, then another half hour cleaning up the kitchen and doing the dishes, don't you deserve to enjoy a little bit of it?

That's what goes through MY MIND, especially when the meal that I whipped up is Fettuccine Alfredo and Garlic Bread.  Seriously, that is one of my favorite dishes but at a whopping 900 calories per serving (we won't even touch on the fat gram content!)... I just can't justify even a bite of it. (Because really... who can stop at one bite?!) :)

SO, you can imagine my excitement when I stumbled upon a recipe for Spaghetti Squash Alfredo & Cauliflower Garlic Bread!  I tried it out last night and it was so good, I just had to share it with my fellow fit people!!



We'll start with the Squash Alfredo!  I made this as easy-peasy as possible!!

What you need:

  • 1 small/medium spaghetti squash
  • 1 jar of light Alfredo sauce (Yes I used store bought sauce) :)
  • Sprinkle of Parmesan Cheese*
  • Spices of your choice*
  • Minced Garlic*

*Optional

What you need to do:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Slice the spaghetti squash in half length wise
3. Set rind side up in baking dish with about 1/4 inch of water
4. Bake for about 45 mins - 1 hour (until rind is easily poked with a fork)

***While you're waiting for your squash to cook, heat up the Alfredo sauce on the stove. I added some extra spices (garlic powder, onion powder) and some minced garlic for a little extra flavor!***

5. Remove squash from oven and shred insides with a fork (leave the insides in the rind). Pour about a 1/4 cup of Alfredo sauce into squash half, mix and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
6. Place back in oven under broiler for 2/3 minutes until the top JUST starts to brown!

Now, the Cauliflower Garlic Bread!  :)

What you need:

  • 1 cup cooked cauliflower 
  • 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp crushed garlic
  • 1/2 tsp garlic salt
  • Nonstick cooking spray
What you need to do:
1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees
2. Steam the cauliflower over the stove until it is just beginning to soften then grate or run it through the food processor. You are looking for a rice like consistency here. (One large head should produce approximately 3 cups of riced cauliflower.  The remainder can be used for additional bread sticks or crusts.  This will keep in the refrigerator for up to one week)
3. Spray baking tin with nonstick cooking spray
4. In a medium bowl stir together 1 cup cauliflower, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese.  Add oregano, crushed garlic & garlic salt.  Stir.
5. Transfer to baking sheet and using your hands pat into a large rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick)  This can be adjusted based upon your preferences.
6. Bake at 450 for 15-20 minutes.
7. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan or mozzarella cheese.

And TA-DO, a healthy, GUILT FREE dinner of Alfredo & Garlic Bread is served! :)





Tuesday, July 23, 2013

My Macro Journey!

Tomorrow I am starting my MACRO journey!!  I used IIFYM to calculate the correct macros for my body type & my goals & I'm ready to GOOOO!!  I'll be sharing my experiences & my results throughout this process! Stay tuned! 


Current Macros:
• carbs: 45%
• protein: 35%
• fat: 20%

Excited for this next step in my journey!! 

DO YOU COUNT YOUR MACROS? Please comment with your opinion & experiences! xoxo

Monday, July 1, 2013

My Super Sunday Experience

So, I'm sure as most of you have noticed, my current workout schedule includes lots of TurboFire, lots of ChaLean Extreme with a little Brazil Butt Lift mixed in there:)  I love these three workouts (by far my fave I've tried so far!) so imagine my excitement when I found out that JENELLE SUMMERS was hosting Super Sunday just TWO hours from where I lived.  I had to go! 



*For those of you who aren't familiar with TurboFire or ChaLean Extreme, she's on those videos quite frequently, she's a 15 Star Diamond Beachbody coach AND Chalene Johnson's sister!*

I bought a ticket and come Sunday morning, I drug myself out of bed at 5 am to get ready & head off to the event. (after an almost flat tire & having to remove a BAT...yes I said BAT, from my basement.  Good thing I'm not a girly-girl about stuff like that! haha. He was actually kind of cute)  So anyways, I was on. my. WAY!

His name is Ozzy. And I think he's cute!


And let me just say, the two hour drive was totally worth it.  Lots of people probably think "oh, so you go and listen to other people talk about why they became a Beachbody Coach, how they work their business and their successes. HOW BORING! Why would you want to sit through that?" Well, I'm going to tell you.

It's simple, one word: INSPIRATION.  There's something to be said about being in a room, surrounded by some of the most positive, hard working people you've ever met.  It's just makes you want to be better.  It makes ME want to work harder and be more successful in every aspect of my life. 

To be given the opportunity to get advice from some top coaches who have helped hundreds of people improve their health, fitness, financial situations etc.... is such a blessing.  I am very thankful that Beachbody works as a TEAM and not as individual competitors! 

I just think that when you're working toward the life that you want, & you're chasing your dreams, it's really easy to let the self doubt and the negativity get the best of you. The naysayers and all the people in your life that say you 'can't do it' or your dreams are 'stupid' have a way of bringing you down.  Going to a Beachbody event like Super Sunday will erase that doubt.  When you meet people that are JUST LIKE YOU, just normal people who commited to working everyday toward the life they deserve and have succeeded, it's eye opening.  I heard some amazing success stories and met some amazing people <3

If you are already a Beachbody Coach, I HIGHLY recommend going to one of these events. They are held quarterly so keep an eye out for one that's local (and YES, they are worth a drive!).  If you are not a Beachbody Coach but want to know what Beachbody is all about, attend one of these!  You'll instantly see the geniuntiy and integrity of this company and the coaches that work with it.



I can't wait to type up my notes and share with my fellow coaches <3

Consider me... INSPIRED!




Wednesday, June 26, 2013

It's "We Can Cook" Wednesday!

If you like deep fried zucchini (which I love!) but don't like the fat that comes along with soaking it in OIL, you MUST try this recipe.  Simple, budget friendly, quick & delicious!

 
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees

Take some sliced zucchini (I bought the pre-sliced ONLY because my grocery store was OUT of zucchini, how does that even happen?!)  If you have the option, I recommend slicing it yourself so they are even thickness.
 
 
Mix that zucchini with 1.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil.  Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.  Sprinkle with garlic salt & black pepper.
 
 
Place in oven (I used the top shelf).  Let bake for approximately 7 minutes, depending on the thickness of your zucchini slices.  Remove from the oven & sprinkle with 1.5 tbsp of parmensan cheese.
 
 
Place back into oven, turn temp up to 450 degrees.  Let cook for another 3-5 minutes, to desired doneness & cheese just begins to brown.
 
 
Trust me, SO GOOD!!  I paired mine with some pesto marinated shrimp and loved it! <3
 
 
Hope you enjoy it :)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Checking In :)

Good Morning & Happy Tuesday!

Just checking in real quick! Got my workout(s) finished thanks to a little E&E.  What's on your workout calendar for today!

 
Hope you have a WONDERFULLL Tuesday! <3
Now - go chase those dreams!! XoXo
 
 
 
 
 

Friday, June 21, 2013

Ahhhh! VANILLA SHAKEOLOGY!!!

My goodness, can you tell I'm excited?!  I love my Shakeology <3 <3 Chocolate is my current flavor of choice, but oh my gosh, I am so excited they have finally released a VANILLA Shakeology. I drink my shake everyday, sometimes twice a day when I need a pick me up or cravings hit me late at night.  It's helped me in so many ways.  My hair and nails grow beyond fast (just ask my hair dresser/sister, she can't believe it!), it kills my cravings, fills me up and gives me energy.  Plus, I just love to drink it. YUMMYYYYY <3 


Just Released TODAYYYY!
30 day money back (bottom-of-the-bag) gaurantee
FREE SHIPPING until 7/07


The vanilla flavor is going to be soooo versatile.  I can't wait to mix it with different fruit (watermelon, whatttt?!), peanut butter, coffee, chocolate... the possiblities are endless.  I mean, just check out this recipe card!!

 


If you've been on the edge about Shakeology, I highly recommend giving it a try.  I've convinced my entire family to start drinking it, along with many friends.  I truly believe in the powers of this shake. 

If you're looking to lose weight; drink Shakeology. 
If you're looking for an energy boost that's actually good for you; drink Shakeology. 
If you're looking for something to kill those cravings you get late at night; drink Shakeology.

Do you research, look further into what you're putting into your body than carbs, protein, sugar & fat.  Read the fine print, that's where you'll find the truth!

The health benefits of Shakeology are endless, this is top quality, no trickery.

You have to feel the difference for yourself to understand.  For more info PLEASE don't hesitate to contact me at LISAGWHIPPLE@GMAIL.COM.

 
 




Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Just a QUICK, EASY and DELICIOUS recipe I HAD to share with Youuu!


Ok, so I’m not usually a fish person.  I’ll hit up Red Lobster to devour shrimp & crab legs any day!  But fish?  No thanks!  I can’t stand the fishy taste… ewww.  BUT fish has so many health benefits I'm always searching for great recipes!  
 
WELL, lucky for me, I found this recipe and now I have to share it.  It’s only 3 ingredients, so quick & easy…and NO FISHY TASTE!   

So here’s what you do. 
 
  • Start with a frozen Cod filet (I picked Cod because it is SO mild!). 
  • Thaw the filet and place it on a greased baking sheet. 
  • Drizzle 1 tsp amino acids over the top (this is a natural replacement for soy sauce, I highly suggest looking into it!). 
  • Then sprinkle with seasoning.  I choose vegetable seasoning, which was gosh darn good!
  • Bake uncovered for 12-14 minutes, until the fish pulls apart easily.

 


And THAT’S IT! So easy, so yummy and….so healthy! J

 
Enjoy!



Thursday, April 18, 2013

HEALTHY Strawberry Shake!

My FAVORITE treat as a little girl was always McDonald's Strawberry Shakes. I made one today that was just a yummy, but HEALTHY also! Give it a try & let me know what you think! :)

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Live On Purpose

Have you ever woken up and realized you weren't actually LIVING?!  That happened to me recently.  I wasn't happy. I wasn't LIVING my life.  I was waking up every day and just going through the motions.

- Wake up
- Drive to work
-Sit at a desk & stare at a computer for 8 hours
- Drive home from work
- Make dinner
- Clean up after dinner
- Clean up the rest of the house
- Sit on the couch for an hour
- Go to bed

Every. Single. Day.
How boring is that?!

I was completely unfulfilled.  I wasn't reaching for anything.  I wasn't working toward a goal or a dream. I had no direction.  I was just drifting through life.  I felt myself falling into a depression. I was experiencing anxiety but I didn't know how to stop it.

It took being introduced to an amazing group of people for the light bulb to go off.  I can honestly say that the leaders on my team have influenced me in so many ways, and not just health and fitness.  I now believe in my dreams, I believe more in myself and that belief is growing more and more each day.  Their inspiring stories made me realize I HAVE TOTAL CONTROL over my life and what direction it goes.  So I thought to myself "Lisa, if you don't change, this is it.  You're going to keep drifting through life.  You're going to keep feeling unhappy and unfulfilled.  Is that what you want?".  Well clearly my answer to myself was "no".  I made a decision right there.  I would work every day, whether it was a little or a lot, and I wouldn't give up until I was living the life I DESERVE!  

So here I am, you've found me in the midst of my journey! Learning tons of new things and meeting so many amazing people.  Working hard every day to take SMALL ACTIONS that will lead me toward my goals (financial, fitness, relationship etc.).  I'm stumbling and making mistakes, but learning each time that I do!

I believe in myself and I can't wait to see what the future brings!

If you're not happy with your life, change it.  If you're job isn't fulfilling, find one you're passionate about.  If your body isn't what you want it to be, start eating healthier and working out.  If you don't have your finances in order, commit to put a certain, small amount out of each paycheck in your savings account.

The point is, the choice is yours. Take control of your life.
LIVE ON PURPOSE.

I would like to invite you to meet the inspiring people that brought me to this place in my life.  This place of focus and clarity.  If you would like to be a part of the team, please contact me or open a free account at the link below.  We all look forward to meeting you <3




Tuesday, April 16, 2013

P90x - Day One. And (BONUS) a Yummy Recipe! :)



So yesterday was OFFICIALLY day one of my P90x 90-day journey. I’m SO excited to be starting this program again (go ahead, call me a dork, I don’t care!). :) I woke up and went through my normal daily routine. Went to work from 9 to 5, ran errands then drove straight home. As soon as I got home I made SURE to change into my workout gear immediately (there’s just something about being IN my exercise clothes that gets me motivated!).  I drank my E&E (swear by this stuff! If you haven't heard of it, you should check it out!), popped in Core Synergistics and pressed play.  

WHOA, let me tell you, I got my BOOTY KICKEDDDD!  Or should I say my abs?  Pretty sure it was a mixture of EVERYTHING being kicked.

I couldn't complete a lot of the exercises, and some of the others my form was far less than perfect, BUT, I pushed through and did as many of each move as I could!  I know with time & work I will catch up to everyone on the DVDs!  I finished the entire DVD, (even with the constant interruptions from my dear furry kids) and I felt great! Sweaty & tired, but ... great!  


(see, not lying about the interruptions) ;)


SEE YA LATER 341 CALORIES! 

After the workout I figured I’d better make some dinner.  I had been eyeing this Island Pork Tenderloin recipe in the P90x Nutrition Guide so I finally decided to give a shot.  I've NEVER cooked pork before (besides in my slow cooker) so I was a little nervous about messing it up.  BUT, it turned out GREAT so I just have to share the recipe with you!!!  Trust me, this is a must try.  I'll be eating this for the next few days!

Here's what you'll need!

  • 16 oz. Pork Tenderloin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 tbsp fresh garlic, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tbsp Tabasco sauce

Directions!
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Stir together salt, pepper, chili powder & cinnamon.  Coat pork with spice rub.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet over moderately high heat and brown pork, about 4 minutes.
  4. Stir together brown sugar, garlic & tabasco sauce & pat on top of the tenderloin.  Place pork in a roasting pan and cook in the oven for 20 minutes or until an internal temperature of 160 degrees.

I ended up cooking it a tad longer than 20 minutes and just made sure the meat reached a temp of 160 degrees (I've heard 170 also, but I did 160 and I'm still alive and feeling fine, you decide). As soon as it hit that temp I removed it from the oven and let it set for 5 minutes or so, then sliced it open.  YUM!  It was this spicy, sweet, moist yummy-ness. (Even the boyfriend liked it – and that’s saying something!)

I love this recipe because it's so versatile.  I had it last night over a bed of lettuce with different peppers and some mandarin orange slices.  Tonight I think I'll keep it simple with a 6 oz portion & some steamed broccoli.

Give this recipe a try and PLEASE, share your meal ideas! I love to hear from my followers! :)




Friday, April 12, 2013

The Shakeology 3-Day Cleanse

A big day is coming up for me.  On April 15th I am hosting a challenge group made up of people who are all working to get their beach bodies ready for summer time! Since I ALWAYS participate with my challengers, I've decided to tackle another round of P90x (that's right, BRING IT).  So, in preparation for beginning a new program, I decided it was a great time to do the 3 day Shakeology cleanse.  I needed to get all of the toxins out of my body & jump start my metabolism!

So what exactly is Shakeology you might ask? Well my definition is, it's my life saver.  The nectar of the Gods (hehe) :)  Really though, I LOVE my Shakeology.  I drink it daily.  It's helped me drop weight, it has killed my sugar cravings!  It gives me energy when I need it and to top it all off, my skin, nails and hair look amazing.  It's PACKED with nutrients that will do wonders for your health!  Oh yeah, and did I mention, it tastes like a chocolate milkshake?! So there's my personal description, but really, there is so much more to Shakeology. The video below will help you understand why I'm obssessed with this drink and why it's so great to add to your daily diet.



Now that you know how amazing Shakeology is, you probably want to know what this cleanse is all about. Below is a sample of a typical day on the Shakeology cleanse. When I did my cleanse, I stuck as closely to this as possible.  I skipped the snack of fruit, but did add a small amount of fruit into my morning Shakeology.



MY RESULTS!
In just 3 days I dropped from 112.7 lbs to 107.4 lbs.  I dropped from 20.7% body fat to 19.2%.  I was very happy with my results.  To top it off, the following day I really had zero cravings.  I was surprised by this.  I actually stuck very close to my cleanse diet regimen the following day with two shakes, two green teas, with just some steamed veggies with shrimp for lunch. Then a simple turkey burger (no bun) for dinner. AND I WAS SATISFIED!  Energy was through the roof and my mood was the best it's been all week.  It's funny how cleaning all the 'junk' out of your body can improve so many things.

Just Some Shakeology Cleanse FAQ's

1. How many calories will I be consuming per day on the cleanse?
This amount will normally vary between 800-1100 calories per day.

2. How often should a person do the Shakeology Cleanse?
It is recommended a person do this cleanse every quarter.  It is also great to do before starting a new workout program or to break through a plateau in your progress.

3. Can I or should I still workout during my cleanse?
Due to the lower calorie intake during these 3 days, your energy level will be slightly diminished   It is recommended that you do not workout during the cleanse.  If you are in the middle of a workout program, it is recommended to do the cleanse during your recovery week.

4. What kind of results can I expect from the Shakeology cleanse?
Results obviously vary from person to person.  Typical weight loss falls between 5-12 lbs.  You will have renewed energy and your cravings for junk food will be GREATLY reduced.

5. Where do I get Shakeology?
Luckily, Shakeology is easy to get.  It can be ordered online through my website: www.beachbodycoach.com/LisaGennae8.

You can choose from 3 different delicious flavors:
1. Chocolate (vegan or regular)   *regular chocolate is my FAVEEE*
2. Tropical (vegan or regular)
3. Greenberry

You can also choose to receive either the bulk 30 day bag or the 30 day supply of packets (I always opt for the bulk bag but that's up to you!)

For only $4.25/day, you can be improving your health by drinking a chocolatel-y scrumptious shake. Lose Weight. Feel Energized. Beautiful hair, skin & nails. Does it get better? NO.

What if you don't like it you ask?  Are you out that money?  It's your lucky day because NO you aren't.  Beachbody offers a 30 day, bottom of the bag, money back guarantee.  If you drink your Shakeology for 29 days, then decide you don't like it, or it's not working for you just simply put the empty bag back in the mail and Beachbody will refund you your money. Simple as that.

(But trust me, after one week of this shake, you'll be feeling the difference and you won't be sending it back) :)

I hope this helps answer some questions you may have had about this cleanse and this shake.
If you have any questions feel free to contact me! I'll be more than happy to answer!

lisagwhipple@gmail.com






Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Sweet Potato Crust Pizza

I recently stumbled upon a recipe for sweet potato crust pizza and I just HAD to try it!  It turned out delicious!  I recommend trying this one out for yourself!





INGREDIENTS

  • 1.5 cups mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1.5 cups almond meal/flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp curry powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Toppings of your choice
INSTRUCTIONS
  1. Pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees.
  2. Combine all ingredients (minus cheese). Mix well.
  3. Spray a pizza pan with non stick cooking spray (if your pizza pan has holes in it, like mine, just use a sheet of tin foil to cover the bottom of the pan, then spray that tin foil with non stick spray).
  4. Using a spatula, spread the dough evenly into a circle about 1/2 inch thick.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the center is firm & the edgaes are lightly browned.
  6. Remove from the oven & top your pizza with the topping of your choice.
  7. Bake for another 5-7 minutes, just until cheese is melted.
Enjoy!!!! :)


Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Just a friendly reminder to remember how blessed you are, everyday. <3 Life is such a gift.


Monday, March 4, 2013

Water, Water, Water!


Water. 

It’s one of the most readily available liquids around and yet, it’s one of the hardest to get enough of!  It is so important to our bodies to stay hydrated.  It is needed by every living cell and almost every process that takes place within the body. It's so important in fact, that human can exist for several weeks without food, but after several days without water we would not survive.



SO!  What do we need water for you ask?

  • To break down and digest food, carry nutrients in the bloodstream and to eliminate waste. Food CANNOT be digested without water.
  • To help prevent constipation and any toxins and waste materials from sitting inside the body for too long and accumulating to dangerous levels
  • Water aids in circulation
  • To help regulate body temperature.
  • Water helps to keep the kidneys healthy and prevents urinary infections.
  • Water keeps joints & eyes lubricated.
  • It helps to keep the skin hydrated giving it a supple & healthy looking glow!
  • Water dilutes toxins and removes them from the body.
  • It aids in metabolism and elimination of fats.  Without water, fat deposits in the body WILL INCREASE.
  • Dehydration can cause concentration loss, headaches and tiredness.  


So! Now that you know SOME of the roles water plays in our bodies, the question is, how much water should a person drink on a daily basis?  That’s honestly not an easy question to answer.  I've read all different recommendations from the classic 8 x 8 rule, to trying to drink 2 liters per day.  What I've been sticking to is taking half of my body weight in ounces and shooting for that.  So for me (110lbs/2=55lbs=55ounces).

My Current Daily Goal = 60 ounces

Now that I've set my goal, how do I make sure I’m meeting it? There are lots of good ideas out there, check out Google, other fitness blogs or Pinterest!  Here are a couple of my favorites!!

WATERLOGGED. This is an app that I downloaded on my IPhone and use every day.  You can set your own daily goal and track how much you drink throughout the day. You can customize and add glasses/cups etc. so the ones you use frequently are always in there and easy to add.



MARK YOUR WATER BOTTLES. I saw this idea on Pinterest and how cute!

NOW, GO DRINK YOUR WATER PEOPLE!! :)




Thursday, January 10, 2013

Morning Schmorning...UGH...

Who here is a morning person?  You wake up bright and cheery when your alarm goes off, you NEVER hit snooze, you're smiling and ready for the day!  NOT THIS GIRL.  Mornings kill me.  I'm such a night owl that going to bed before 1:00 am is hard work!  That makes getting up in the mornings is even HARDER WORK.  


I've always wanted to be one of those people that wakes up with enough time to cook a nice breakfast, sit down and enjoy it with a nice warm cup of coffee while reading the newspaper for the day.  The idea sounds amazing...but actually doing it...that's just not going to happen.


INSTEAD, I hit snooze approximately 5 times every morning.  I lay in bed until I know that if I don't get up THAT minute and start getting around... I will DEFINITELY be late for work.  Needless to say, this leaves zero time for breakfast (the most important meal of the day).  Shoot, sometimes I'm lucky if my make up is completely on before I'm running out the door!


So, here's a little tip. Make breakfast ahead of time, put it in zip lock bags and then, GRAB AND GO!!!  My most recent creation is chocolate protein pancakes.   


This is based off from a simple protein pancake recipe that I found on The Gracious Pantry's blog.  You can change the amount of ingredients used in this recipe to fit your needs.


Ingredients:


  • 6 egg whites
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
  • 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips
  • splash of milk or water


  1. Mix all ingredients together.  
  2. Scoop by the 1/4 cup onto a hot pan and cook as you would any normal pancake. 
  3. Remove from pan and let cool. 



This made about 5-6 pancakes for me.  I put 2 pancakes in a small zip loc bag once they were cooled, stuck it in the refrigerator and TA-DAAAA, a grab and go breakfast.  Just grab them and microwave them for a quick 30 seconds... good to GO.


You can top this with whatever you'd like. I've tried a splash of sugar free syrup and today I topped it with a little organic peanut butter and fresh raspberries.  Let me tell you, SOOOO good.




Enjoy!!!! :)




Wednesday, January 2, 2013

Pushpalooza

On January 1st I began a push palooza challenge with over 1000 other members!! Together we are learning how to set priorities & reach goals, how to organize our time & how to live the life that we dream of :) Thanks to Chalene Johnson for such a great product (whoever doesn't own her book, Push, I suggest you get it!).

So today is day two. I had to establish my TOP THREE priorities. After much thought, here they are!

1. FAMILY • and by family I mean my actual family; mom, dad, sister, niece, nephew & grandparents. But I ALSO mean my best friends, my boyfriend & my pups. All of these people (& animals) bring so much joy to my life. I want to be sure I am a positive force in their life. I want to be involved & always there for them if they need me. I want to always be doing what is best for them.

2. FINANCIAL FREEDOM • debt has always been a huge weight on my shoulders. Money management has never been my strong suit; if I have money I want to spend it. But this year I am determined to pay off my credit cards & unnecessary debt & build a savings account. I want to be able to live comfortably instead of pay check to pay check. No more over spending, it's BUDGET TIME ;)

3. HEALTH & FITNESS • health is something almost every person (including myself) takes for granted until they no longer have it. I am done taking that for granted. I am done wishing I felt good in my own skin. This year I am adopting a healthy, clean eating lifestyle. I will make health & exercise a priority in my everyday routine.

So there you have it. Feel free to follow my journey throughout this year. it's time to turn my life around:) I would love any support I can get.