Living Between Labels

Grain-free Chicken strips

2015-12-17T19:36:00.002-08:00

Grain free Chicken Strips

I adapted this recipe from another one I found in a magazine. They recipe called for all-purpose flour, and I suppose if you don't really care either way, you can use whatever flour floats your boat. :) I like to use garbanzo bean flour when doing breaded foods as it has a great consistency.

Hope you enjoy them as much as we did!

Ingredients:

- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1/2 cup and 2 tbsp garbanzo flour
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

1. In a skillet, heat oil on med/high heat until shimmering. Reduce to medium heat.
2. In a shallow bowl or dish, add 1/2 cup of garbanzo flour.
3. In a second dish, whisk the 2 eggs.
3. In a third dish add the parmesan cheese and 2 tbsp garbanzo flour.
4. After chicken is cut into pieces, pat dry with paper towel.
5. Dip chicken in flour, then egg, and last parmesan cheese mixture.
6. Place chicken strips into pan 4 at a time and cook for approximately 3 minutes per side.

Get your favorite dip and enjoy! :)

Gluten-free Chocolate Chip Chocolate Shakeology Muffins

2015-08-17T15:17:00.005-07:00

Say that 10 times fast!

Yep. Muffins with Shakeology. Because, why not?

The boys really wanted chocolate chip pancakes today for breakfast. But I really wanted to try something new. So I pulled together some basic muffin ingredients, threw in some shakeology and chocolate chips and there you have it. A delicious, not-too-sweet but oh-so-good and tasty muffin.

And there you have it! Easy to make and the kids LOVED them.

Gluten-free Chocolate Chip Chocolate Shakeology Muffins

Ingredients

1 cup almond flour
1 1/4 cups gluten free oat flour
1/4 cup coconut flour
1 packet Chocolate Shakeology
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup coconut or almond milk
2 tsp vanilla
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
extra coconut oil for greasing pan
Optional - 1 tbsp coconut sugar for decorating

Instructions

Pre-heat the oven to 400°F.
Using coconut oil, coat the muffin pan or place paper muffin/cupcake liners into the muffin pan.
Combine dry ingredients in a medium bowl and mix with a whisk so that everything is well combined. Stir in 3/4 cups of the chocolate chips.
In a separate bowl combine all the wet ingredients, making sure the eggs are well incorporated as well.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined. IMPORTANT: If you stir too much the muffins will become too dense. For the muffins to be fluffy and moist just stir everything until the dry ingredients are just incorporated.
Spoon the batter evenly into muffin cup.
Sprinkle the tops of the batter with the remaining chocolate chips and the coconut sugar.
Bake in the oven for 15-18 minutes, checking after 14 minutes.
Once the muffins are finished baking cool on a wire rack.

Devour! :)

**If following the 21 Day Fix, 1 muffin= 1 yellow 1/4 red and 1 tsp.

California Chicken Wraps

2015-06-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

I cannot take full credit for this recipe as it was adopted from Danielle Walker's newest cookbook, Meals Made Simple. When in a crunch, I usually just toss them into a lettuce wrap or cabbage leaf, however you can also use her recipe for the tortilla wraps that are absolutely amazing!

California Chicken Wraps:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
3 Tbsp dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey
1 cup spinach or romaine lettuce

Ranch Dressing:

1/2 cup plain yogurt (I use greek yogurt)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried dill
1/2 tsp drived chives
1 tsp vinegar
3 tbsp water
salt to taste

Directions:

Mix together all ingredients for the dressing and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Mix together the dijon and honey. Place chicken on grill or in a skillet with some coconut oil. Brush both sides of the chicken with the dijon/honey mixture. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side brushing each side once again when turning the chicken.

Cut the chicken into pieces and assemble the wrap. Top with the ranch dressing.

Enjoy!!

Your why, my why....Our why.

2015-03-23T10:15:00.000-07:00

People are always commenting and giving their 2 cents on parenting. How hard it is. The sleepless

nights. The constant crying. The never-ending dependence of these little people who just cannot help themselves.

And we know this going into parenthood, I think. It's "easy" to prepare for the sleep deprivation, the perma-puke, the poopy diapers and even the colicky baby. We've been warned by generation after generation about how hard it's going to be. We get it.

But I think the part that no one can prepare you for, the part that is so difficult to describe in words, is the completely helpless feeling you get when your child is heart-broken and sad. We expect crying from just being an infant, or from the pain of a broken bone or scrape.Those things are "easy" to fix and kiss away. The part that no one really tells you about is when you've said or done something that completely breaks their ever-loving heart. When they look at you with those eyes, and you can literally see the hurt they're feeling. But it's a hurt you can't make better. Or if you can, you don't know how. It's a hurt that can really only get better with time.

They come home feeling upset about a kid who made fun of them at school. They get down on themselves about making a mistake in class. They do something that you wouldn't be proud of and you show your disappointment and they are sad! They've let you down and they feel guilt and shame for that. And then there are the times when YOU do or say something and you can't take it back. You yell or scream because you're frustrated. You have to tell them someone close to them has died. These are the moments that are impossible to prepare for as a parent.

Last night as I was tucking the boys in bed, I reminded them that I would be leaving early in the morning for a work trip until Tuesday night, and then leaving again Wednesday night to be gone until Sunday. I was laying by Elliot and he looked at my face with those eyes, and he said "I feel like I want to cry, mom." And I said "you can cry buddy, but I will be back. I promise! And you'll have dad. You don't have anything to worry about." And then his eyes welled up with tears, he wrapped his arm around my neck and began sobbing. At this moment, probably because of a ripple effect, Jack began to cry as well. And then MY eyes began to get wet.

I broke their hearts. There is a routine that we have and an expectation and me leaving throws everything off. I tried to explain WHY I had to go, and that I have to work. And I explained that I am doing it for them. But they're 5 and 7. And while they're intelligent people, kids want their parents there to love and protect them. And they weren't feeling that at this moment.

I know that I have to work. Their reactions to me leaving do not change the fact that we still need to have an income to provide for our family. BUT, their feelings, their broken-hearts, and their tears helped define WHY I'm builing a business that will allow me to be with them more.

I had a bit of an "aha" moment last night. I was about to get on a call to speak to individuals about why Beachbody coaching has and will continue to change my life, and the opportunity it can provide for others, and just before the call, here I am laying in bed with my children, crying because I have to go on a work trip away from them.

And it hit me. I'm building this business for THEM. For US. My why can be described in one word: Family.

To the mom who puts herself first...

2015-02-28T12:02:00.002-08:00

We've all heard the mantra "it takes a village", but I don't think many families practice this anymore.

I think one of the hardest things to admit as a mom, is that we need a break. That we cannot do it all and that we don't want to, even if we could. I love being a mom and I love my children more than anything in the world. But that doesn't mean that I don't get sick of them. It doesn't mean there aren't days where I want to scream and kick and throw a tantrum because I want something for myself! I see so many moms who are trying to do it all, be everything and do everything for their children. And not just do it, but do it RIGHT. We have become a society with such high expectations of parents, that somewhere, we've stopped enjoying the very thing that makes us great parents. Ourselves.

We hear less and less supportive words, and more words of judgment. We hear that we gave up our own lives when we chose to have children. Well, I for one, completely disagree with that. You are still a person! You are still YOU. And you cannot be a good parent, if you cannot first be YOU.

So,

To the mom who sits in her car for a few extra minutes before walking into what is bound to be a crazy madhouse filled with dirty dishes, laundry and toys strewn about and your small people asking what's for dinner: You're doing a good job.

To the mom who hires a babysitter so she can go grocery shopping in peace: You're doing a good job.

To the mom who has been in the bathroom for 20 minutes (we all know women don't take that long to poop, c'mon!): You're doing a good job.

To the mom who drinks wine every night, sometimes before the kids even go to bed: You're doing a good job.

To the mom who spends her work bonus on a pair of shoes she really doesn't need: You're doing a good job.

To the mom who has just spent countless hours up all night with a sick child and is running on 2 hours of sleep, but can't wait to get away and get to work: You're doing a good job.

To the mom sneaking chocolate and potato chips into the closet where the kids can't find you: You're doing a good job.

To the mom who takes time for herself; the mom who spends time alone, the one who continues to do what she loves BECAUSE she has kids to care for; the mom who knows that she cannot be the mom she needs to be if she cannot first be selfish and take care of number 1: You're doing a GREAT job!

Let us begin to love more and judge less. To support each other, as moms. To offer a helping hand to a mom who needs some time to herself. Because at the end of the day, we're all doing the best we can for the little loves of our lives. And we ALL have that in common.

3 reasons why gym memberships don't work

2015-02-26T06:41:00.002-08:00

In 2014 the annual gym and health club industry revenue was $21.8 BILLION dollars.

68.5% of American's are considered overweight or obese. Please don't misunderstand my message here. Obesity and weight gain are NOT the enemy. It's not about looks. It's not about fitting into a mold that society has created. But, it is a FACT, that obesity is linked to higher rates of heart disease, stroke and death. According to the National Institute of Health, obesity and overweight together are the 2nd leading cause of preventable death in the United States.

With such a large gym and health club industry, one would believe the rates of obesity would be lower. And here is where we find out WHY gym memeberships don't work.

It's not about the workout. Only 20% of your success and results are coming from your workout. It is a well-known fact that you cannot outwork a bad diet. Good nutrition is ESSENTIAL to your success in weight loss and increased health.
You're not actually working out. Of the 58 million people who have a gym membership, 67% of them never step foot in the gym. Of the remaining 33%, the average number of times per week that people with gym memberships actually GO to the gym, is two. Twice a week. The US Dept. of Health and Human services recommends at least 60 minutes per day of aerobic activity to meet the PAG (physical activity guidelines). Guess what? Your twice a week trip to the gym, just isn't cutting it.
Accountabilty. This is by far, the biggest reason that people fail. No one is keeping you accountable at the gym. It's just you, on your own. You need an accountability partner or a coach. The first couple of days with a new gym membership are exciting! The excitement wears off though, and that's when it gets tough. That is when you need someone beside you telling you to keep going. Someone who is reminding you why you started. Someone who knows you and knows your weaknesses. Without that person, you will allow the negative thoughts to seep back in, and in turn, fall off the proverbial wagon.

If you're a person who just hates exercise and you really would like to just do the bare minimum to stay somewhat healthy, then a gym may actually be a good option for you, however your twice a week eliptical, is still not cutting it. Get up and move around. Try new things and maybe even *gasp* go in the weight room!

On the other hand, if you DO like exercising and need a boost or kick in the pants, but personal training isn't in the budget, I urge you to consider trying an at home program with a coach.

If you're interested in kicking the gym thing to the curb (or you already have!), message me and we can chat. I would love to set you up with an accountability partner or be your coach.

21 Day Fix extreme progress...more than halfway!

2015-02-23T13:01:00.001-08:00

I've completed many rounds of the 21 Day Fix program with great success. It's a very do-able program for people of all levels, whether just beginning or having high fitness capabilities.

When 21 Day Fix Extreme was launched, I knew I had to get it. I was excited to push myself to the next level for some extreme results. What I learned over the first week, will stick with me for life. This program PUSHES you. I felt prepared having completed the 21 Day Fix, however there is nothing that could have prepared me for Extreme. I don't say that to scare anyone. Truly. It's an amazing program but it is SERIOUS. I struggled the first week but did every workout and stuck as close to the meal plan as I possibly could. I won't say it's been easy and I would never say I have been perfect at it. I am far from perfect. BUT, I keep remembering what Autumn always says and I let the past stay in the past. Just because I had a bad day yesterday, doesn't mean I couldn't give it my all today.

So here I sit on week 3 of the program and I'm feeling fabulous!! I don't think I will see my abs by the end of this week, BUT, another round of this and I think there's a good chance I might. :)

The difference between the two programs doesn't seem huge at first glance, but it definitely is. The workouts are more intense and use more weights. The meal plans are more dialed in and offer the option for an even more extreme plan, using the countdown to competition plan. I haven't followed that plan until this week and my results thus far are still pretty astounding.

If you're looking for a program that will take you to the next level, THIS. IS. IT. This program is the real deal. Follow it and you'll see results. Plain and simple.

How to make grain-free muffins taste good

2015-02-15T07:17:00.003-08:00

Grain free.

It's hard to get used to.

I've been experimenting with grain-free flours for a few months. I usually attempt a new recipe a few times a week, at most. This morning I didn't have the energy to fight with the kids about choosing a healthy breakfast. (They love bagels and english muffins, unfortunately. And it's a fight to get them to eat something semi-healthy.) So I decided to cater to their wants and make muffins. They are skeptical about my grain-free cooking but I didn't tell them these were grain-free. And they LOVED them. So, I figured if they're kid-approved, they'll likely be approved by some of my internet family and friends. Let me know what you think!

Grain-free Maple-cinnamon muffins

Ingredients:

2 cups almond flour
1 cup coconut flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
2 eggs
1 cup almond milk
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
2 Tbsp coconut oil (melted)

Topping:
2 Tbsp maple syrup
1 Tbsp cinnamon
1 Tbsp coconut oil
1 Tbsp coconut sugar

Heat oven to 325 degrees F. Line a muffin tin with paper muffin liners OR use coconut oil to grease the muffin tin, instead of paper liners. (I do this and it works well. No sticking.)

In a large bowl, combine first 5 ingredients and mix well. In a smaller bowl, whisk eggs, then add almond milk, maple syrup and coconut oil and continue whisking until well mixed. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients. (Batter will be thicker than normal muffin batter.) Spoon batter into muffin tins.

Mix topping ingredients in a small bowl and drizzle or spoon onto the muffins before baking.

Bake muffins for 22-25 minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean.

Enjoy!

21 Day Fix Buffalo Chicken Dip

2015-02-13T08:04:00.004-08:00

I was playing around with some recipes and really wanted to find the perfect buffalo chicken dip that was 21 Day Fix approved. What I came up with was so close to the real buffalo chicken dip (without all the cheese and fatty goodness), it felt like a dream! Here is what I did. Are you ready? It's really complicated.... ;)

1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded (I used my Kitchen Aid mixer with the paddle attachment to shred chicken. Works perfectly!)
some buffalo sauce (franks is "clean" and acceptable on the 21 Day Fix)
some plain greek yogurt
1/2 Blue container of cheddar cheese (if desired)

That's it!! Pretty simple, right? Use your favorite veggies and dip away! :)

Try it out and let me know what you think!

How to make cauliflower crust for your favorite pizza!

2015-02-09T12:01:00.002-08:00

There was a time when I stopped eating grains and I thought my pizza eating days were over. A friend had mentioned cauliflower as a pizza crust, which sounded utterly disgusting to me. I gagged at the thought of it! But, I was desperate and willing to try just about anything to get a small taste of something that resembled pizza. I scoured the internet for recipes and tried a few different ones until I came up with one that was perfect! This recipe is really a culmination of a few different recipes out there. Here it is:

Cauliflower Pizza Crust

Recipe:

1 small head cauliflower
1 egg
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp oregano

Take one small head of cauliflower, cut into large chunks and toss in a food processor.
Pulse for approximately 30 seconds, or until the cauliflower resembles a rice type texture.
When you have the cauliflower at the right consistency, place it in a microwave safe dish and microwave for approximately 3 minutes. (If you'd rather not use a microwave, you can also spread the cauliflower thin on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 mintues.)
Once the cauliflower is finished cooking in the microwave, allow it to cool for a bit and then use a cheesecloth to squeeze out all of the liquid. Be careful not to burn yourself as the cauliflower will be hot.
Once you've sqeezed all of the liquid out of the cheesecloth you will have a ball of dough
Add 1 egg, 1/4 cup of parmesan, 1/4 cup of mozzarella, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp oregano leaves. Mix well.
Place a piece of parchment paper on a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread the dough out onto the parchment paper into a thin crust. Bake for 12 minutes, or until golden.
Take the crust out and top with your favorite pizza sauce, toppings and of course, mozzarella cheese! Bake for another 10 mintues until cheese edges are golden.

Enjoy!

When things don't go as planned...

2015-02-09T10:53:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I had plans to spend the day with some friends from high school. They all live about an hour from me in the cities so it's just easier for me to drive to them. I don't mind driving. I actually really like driving. Driving gives me a chance to put my phone down, stop checking email and social media, and focus on just one thing. Driving. And, well, listening. I have started to really love podcasts. I wouldn't call myself any kind of expert in any area of life. Yet. But it's wondering to hear from the experts on topics of which I'm interested in. I've listened to Chalene Johnson, Brendon Burchard, Michael Stelzner and Michael Hyatt to name a few. As I was listening to a particularly interesting and uplifting episode yesterday on Michael Stelzner's Social Media Marketing podcast. I can't remember what the episode was called but the featured guest speaker aws a man by the name of Seth Godin. He talks about the book industry and what it's like to author a book these days. His latest book is titled What To Do When It's Your Turn and his marketing strategy for this book is very unique. Anyway, this blog post isn't about the book. Not directly. This post is about the things that happen in the universe. The words that Seth spoke during this interview with Michael Stelzner were engaging to say the least. I was hooked and I wanted to hear more! So I'm driving along the interstate and half-listening to my GPS, but I KNOW I didn't make a wrong turn. However my GPS had taken me 20 minutes out of the way and I was immediately frustrated. Dumb iPhone. I knew it was wrong. I turned around and made my way to where I needed to be and I tried really hard to find the silver lining to this situation. I was going to be late to my friends house but I remained positive. It wasn't a big deal.

The reason I bring any of this up is that I arrived at my friends house at the exact time the episode I was listening to ended. There was a reason I was supposed to get lost. I was supposed to get off track. I needed more time to hear the powerful words in the podcast episode. And now, I'm so glad I did. Today I went on Seth's website and purchased 3 books, a few to gift to others. Have you ever had something great come from something that started out not so great?

21 Day Fix Extreme

2015-02-06T13:45:00.002-08:00

When I first ordered the 21 Day Fix and saw how little those containers were, I actually started crying. There was no way I was going to be able to do this. I love food. And I mean, LOVE.

But, I paid for the program already and I knew I enjoyed Beachbody products thus far so I told myself to give it a chance. I promised myself I would do it for 1 week and then see how I felt. The week came and left and by Sunday I was feeling pretty good! I was actually struggling to eat all of the food because the eating plan had me eating so many containers. I stuck it out for the entire program and saw great success. Not to mention how I FELT. Naturally when 21 Day Fix EXTREME came out, I was all in. No holds barred. (is that the saying? what does that even mean?!) I ordered the program the day it was released and it arrived today!! I'm having a hard time waiting until Monday to start this one. Who knew the difference I would feel between when the 21 Day Fix arrived months ago, compared to today when I saw the 21 Day Fix Extreme show up at my door! Quite the difference. This time, I'm ready! I'm doing it. All in.

Watch my blog for updates on my progress! If you want to join my group and order this program, too, fill out the application below to join me! Loading...

What no one tells you about waiting...

2015-01-27T09:24:00.001-08:00

They say "Good things come to those who wait." and "Patience is a virtue" and to that I say, BALONEY! Good things come to those who work their butts off! Good things come to those who hustle and MAKE good things happen for themselves.

If you're waiting for the time to be right, you're not moving. You're a slug; a bump on a log. Waiting will NOT move you toward your goals. Don't have goals? Set some. Don't know how? Let me help you.

My favorite program of all time is on sale this month. It's called the 21 Day Fix and I am starting what is sure to be the BEST challenge group on February 9th and I'm inviting YOU to join me. Don't wait.

Still not sure this is for you? Email me at livingbetweenlabels@gmail.com to schedule a 15 minute phone call with me and we will discuss the program or other opportunities for your specific goals.

*Before you click that red "x" in the corner, I want you to ask yourself two questions: "Why am I saying no to this?" and "What am I waiting for?". If you can give yourself a solid, honest answer, "x" out and I'll catch ya on the flip side. :)

Don't label me.

2015-01-25T06:10:00.000-08:00

This list could go ON and ON.

When we label others or ourselves, we create a box and we make a judgment. We present a reason for someone to like or dislike who we are as humans. We judge and we are judged. We hate and we are hated. We create space for people to push their opinions and agendas when we succumb to labels.

I can empathize with the idea that sometimes we feel we need labels to help us self-identify. I can understand a need to feel as though we belong somewhere. What I cannot understand is a need to project those labels onto OTHERS. If using these labels helps a person to identify and feel happy about who they are and where they are, by all means, label away. But if we are using labels to identify OTHERS, we are judging where we should not be. We are creating hatred where it should not belong. And we are allowing others to do it too. To others and to ourselves. So the next time you feel the need to call identify someone a certain way or place them in a category, think first, do I know this to be true? Is this label helpful or hurtful? Is anyone gaining anything from my labeling?

Stop labeling. Stop judging. Stop allowing others to put you in a box and stop putting others in boxes. Have thoughts of your own and feelings and opinions that are different than someone else, BUT, love people no matter what. Let us allow ourselves to experience a life of passion, love and desire, without all the labels.

Five steps to creating a happy and truly fulfilling life

2015-01-21T19:52:00.003-08:00

It's Sunday night. All you can think about is the dread of Monday morning; the alarm clock ringing, the commute to work, and that unending pile of papers still sitting on your desk where you left them Friday night. Your stomach is in knots, your back aches and your head is pounding. You are physically and mentally drained and exhausted from the job. You think "what am I doing with my life?" and you don't even know how you let it get this far.

Your life does NOT have to be like this. There is good news! You CAN choose a different path! Is it easy? Not always. Will it be worth it? I think you know the answer to that one.

I'm going to share with you 5 ways to create your own happiness. 5 steps you can take today to get you on the path to the live you deserve. The life you are meant for. These things can and will work, but if, and ONLY if, you put them into practice every day. Creating the life you want will take work. It will be difficult at times. But you will reap the benefits very quickly. I promise.

1. Smile at everyone you meet. Did you know that when we give to others, we feel better ourselves? Smiling at someone can be a great gift. Treat people with kindness, no matter what. The guy who cuts you off in traffic. The cranky post office worker. The angry customer who calls you on the phone. We've all heard the phrase "hurt people, hurt people" right? These negative people in your life, they ALL have a story! And you don't have the script to it! We don't know what others have been through in their lives. I think often times we think we do. We think we know people. We assume that, even if they're having a bad day, or a bad week, or year, they shouldn't treat us poorly. And you're right. BUT, treating them poorly in return helps no one. Not you, not them. So smile. Treat them with kindness. You could very well need them to do the same for you someday.

2. Read personal development books. If you had told me 2 years ago that I should read personal development books to better myself and my life, I would have laughed in your face. I would have judged you and thought, there is no way that those self-help books are going to help ME. I have always been turned off by the phrase "personal development" and I'm not sure why. But I don't really know what else to call them so we will just go with it. TRUST me when I say, these books will change you. It's hard to imagine now, I know. But give yourself this gift. Don't tell me you don't have time. All you need is 10 minutes a day. There are some phenomenal authors out there. Chalene Johnson, Brendon Burchard, Brian Tracy, Napolean Hill, and Andrew Carnegie, just to name a few. If you need a suggestion for where to start, I suggest The Charge by Brendon Burchard, or Think and Grow Rich by Napolean Hill.

3. Be grateful. I've touched on this before. Gratitude can turn your life from nothing, to everything. Be grateful everyday for the people, things and experiences you have in your life. But don't just say it. BE it. Feel it. Own it. And write it down.

4. Turn off the television. Did you know that the average american spends 4 hours per day watching tv!? Let's think about this. Even if you are not average, let's say you're below average at 1 hour per day. That would be equal to 365 hours per year. That is equivalent to MORE than 15 DAYS per year! Can you imagine? What would you do if someone handed you an extra 15 days each year. 15 days FOR FREE?! Would you spend it watching tv? Likely not. Time is time, no matter how we spend it, right? So think about turning off the tv and doing something each day that will push you closer to the life you want for yourself. Because no one is going to do it for you! Which brings us to the last and most important step:

5. Figure out your life's purpose. You need to make it a goal and WRITE IT DOWN to figure out what you believe your life's purpose is. Maybe you've never thought about it? Maybe no one has ever asked you to think about it! Whatever your case may be, you need to find this out to be truly happy. If you're not sure how to do this, ask yourself some of these questions: What am I passionate about? What gets me fired up? What is it that puts a fire in my belly?! For me, I learned that it was helping others find happiness in their own lives. I knew that I had a lot to share after having been through so much pain, depression and turmoil in my own life. The fire lit inside of me when I started sharing with others and they opened themselves to me. So what is it for you? What, in your life, puts that fire in your soul and passion in your heart?

Change your life in 3 minutes or LESS

2015-01-19T14:09:00.002-08:00

I was never really a morning person. I had to set multiple alarms to get up for school when I was in college. I loathed getting up each day and had to peel myself out of bed. I hit snooze 5 times until the very last possible minute.

Does this sound familiar? I'm going to describe the one thing that changed my perspective on mornings.

Gratitude.

It sounds simple, maybe even silly to some. But it WORKS. If you don't believe me, TRY IT.

I have a challenge for you. For 7 days in a row, try to wake up with a purpose. No more rolling out of bed. No more fumbling around and mumbling those dreaded words under your breath; words of hatred for the day. I challenge you to wake up PRESENT. With a purpose. And there is a very simple yet effective way to do this. All it takes is gratitude. When you wake up in the morning, turn your alarm off right away and put both feet on the floor, NO. MATTER. WHAT. Think to yourself about THREE things that you are grateful for TODAY. Three things that, if you learned you no longer had anymore, would devastate you. Just 3 things a day.

Now. Write them down. Seriously! Do it. Write down a list of 3 things that you are grateful for when you wake up each morning. Talk to me again after you've done this for 7 days and if it hasn't changed your life and the way you live and think about your life, I will be truly shocked.

Do you think you can do it? Are you ready to live?

Here are 3 things I'm grateful for today:

1. A house that has heat. I live in Wisconsin and the temperatures get very cold. Living in a heated home is something that I would miss greatly, if it were taken from me today.

2. Coffee. Some days it's the little things like wrapping my hands around a hot mug of coffee, that help me realize how wonderful life can be.

3. School teachers. I was able to volunteer in my son's classroom today and it was a very eye-opening experience. I'm grateful that people still choose to go to school for teaching to help educate our youth to become bright future citizens.

Now it's your turn. What are you grateful for today?

How to have your tacos and eat them too

2015-01-06T12:34:00.002-08:00

It's Tuesday.

Ya know what I love about Tuesdays?

I love tacos!
Like, LOVE them.

But those seasoning packets.....YUCK!

I've tried many different seasoning recipes and packets and have come up with one that stands out against the crowd. The nice thing about a recipe like this? You can make it YOUR OWN! Too salty? Too spicy? Dial it down. You choose. :)

SO! Here you GO! Enjoy!

Tasty Taco Tuesday Mix:

1 TBSP Chili powder
2 tsps ground cumin
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)

Brown 1 lb of hamburger, ground turkey, chicken, venison, tofu, or whatever kind of base you want to use. (No judgement here!) Add mixture and 1/4 cup of water. Stir and enjoy!

Spice up this recipe by adding it to any of the following:

Lettuce and Kale boats
stuffed peppers
Grain free tortillas
Tortilla chips for nachos!

It was important

2014-11-04T07:30:00.001-08:00

Do you ever attend a seminar, or read something in a book or see something in a video that triggers a feeling of motivation or inspiration, and in the moment, that feeling is AMAZING!? In the moment, you feel like you can do ANYTHING. In that moment, you make a commitment. You decide to make today the first day of the rest of your life, and make it count. Because you are inspired by what you've just heard, read or seen, right? And IN THAT MOMENT, it's all worth it. Your WILL to do what you want to is so powerful.

Don't you wish you could hang on to that? That you could carry that feeling with you into each and every minute of the day? But we can't. Because feelings are not permanent. Buddhist Bootcamp says "No temporary feeling is your permanent reality". This goes for positive feelings AND negative feelings.

We can't carry those feelings out longer than our minds and bodies allow us to. BUT, we CAN remember that it was important at the time. You said to yourself at the time "This is it! I want to do this! I want this change in my life!"

I set my alarm for 5am. And the LAST thing I want to do when I hear that buzzing noise is get up. I would LOVE to hit snooze and sleep for 5 more minutes, 10 more minutes, 20 more. Or just turn it off. And I almost do. My hand is RIGHT there....and then I suddenly remember, there was a reason I set the alarm. And in the moment it was important to me. So I choose to get up, and live out what I meant to do that morning. I'm slow at first, but I greet the day with a smile and start the coffee. What was important yesterday, when I set the alarm, is all coming back to me again. I remember why I wanted to get up early.

Today I got up at 5am, drank my coffee, sat by my light lamp with my personal development book and read for 20 minutes. I then started my workout and finished everything I wanted to accomplish for the morning by 6:15am, just in time for the boys to get up and get ready for school.

Could I have slept until 6:15 right along with them? Sure, I could. Would I have felt as good? Would I have the energy I have now for the rest of the day? Would I have gained new knowledge and understanding about myself without having read my book? The answer to all of that, is no. For me, it is no.

We are who we CHOOSE to be. We become who we WANT to become and who we STRIVE to become. You are the creator of your life. You write the book.

The next time you feel that moment of inspiration and excitement, write it down! Make a plan and then FOLLOW THROUGH. Don't let the excitement of the moment slip away so easily. Carry it with you and remember, just because the feeling has passed, doesn't mean it's not important. It was important then, and it still is.

Namaste.

The Faith Dillemma

2014-11-02T11:04:00.002-08:00

Most of my childhood I believed faith to be a religious term. If you have faith, it is in God, usually the Christian god. I grew up in a home that called themselves Christians, but rarely attended any kind of organized religious ceremonies. I was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church. Shortly following high school I began to explore other types of faith, though I still believed it to be a religious term. I started to gain more knowledge and understanding of different religions through a World Religions class I took in college. I was intrigued and curious about the various belief systems throughout the world. I started to "lose" faith in the Christian god and any organized religion. Science disproved a lot of what I was taught as a child through religion and I began to question a lot. But it wasn't until more recently that I truly began to almost loathe the religion I once believed so strongly in. I had experienced pain and heartache and I couldn't believe there was this omnipotent being that could have stopped my pain, yet DIDN'T. How could a worldly god capable of healing the sick and wounded just let my babies slip by and die? Well-meaning people would tell me "God has a plan" or "God needed another angel". These things did nothing but anger me. What a selfish being they believed in!

It wasn't until I read the book "Buddhist Bootcamp" by Timber Hawkeye that I started to see things clearly. The faith that had once escaped me was finally starting to resurface. I love the ideas provided in that book and many of them saved me from myself. I learned that faith is not a finite definition. Or rather, it can mean difference things for people. A term I once aligned with Christianity, I now realize does not have to be so. It may be just that for some, but it is not for me. I learned that faith, for me, is the belief in the nature and energy of the universe. The energy we cannot see but can feel. The beauty of nature that surrounds us both visually and audibly. The connections we feel and create with other human beings.

Love.

Love is my religion. Love is my faith. Love is the root of all things good. TRUE love is essential to finding true happiness and enlightenment. Love of thyself. Love of thy neighbor. And love of thy enemy. Without love, we will never make it in this world.

Love to you all, no exceptions.

Eye of the Beholder

2014-10-23T08:15:00.002-07:00

Growing up I always felt like the chubby girl in my group of friends.

My older sister was always skinnier than me. I was the fat sister.

My brother had a nickname for me. It was “fat cat”.

In 3^rd grade I stopped eating lunch for fear of getting fatter.

A boy on the bus in 6^th grade told me my legs were too fat to wear shorts; I stopped wearing shorts after that day. (To this day, you will rarely catch me in shorts.)

My senior year of high school I stopped eating every meal except for dinner. My close friends and boyfriend (now husband) caught on to this and expressed concern.

I have always had body image issues. I’ve always been more concerned about what other people think I look like. Skinny=pretty. Fat=ugly. These are the words I repeated to myself. These are the ideas I was led to believe. These are the ideals we create for our children, daughters and sons alike.

Surprisingly, it took a fitness program to help me see the very real problem with body image in our society. Wait…I take that back. It took a COACH, a friend, pushing me and helping me, guiding me to become the best version of myself. Not the best version of someone else, but of ME. And guess what?! It had NOTHING to do with being skinny, or fat, or any specific dimension that someone else destined for me to be. I am physically and emotionally the person I want to be because I decided it, not because someone else did.

I made the decision to start P90X in June of this year and to say that this decision changed me is an understatement. The workouts were fun and challenging. They were a bit long, but I made the time for them, because I knew it was a priority and I wanted to stick with it. When I began this program, I thought it was because I wanted to lose weight and tone my body. I never in a million years DREAMED of what this ONE TINY decision, would eventually do for me.

That ONE TINY decision brought about an enormous change in my life.

That ONE TINY decision dragged me out of the depression I was in for years.

That ONE TINY decision made me a better mom, a better wife, and a happier person to be around.

And that ONE TINY decision made me realize that there is more. There is more to life than the everyday struggles; I was MADE for more! I was made for bigger and better things. And I am finally DOING those things! I’m building my dream life and I couldn’t have done it without making that one decision to FINALLY put ME first.

Are we going about this the wrong way?

2014-10-08T14:14:00.001-07:00

Does this sound like something you've ever experienced?

"It's Friday! I'm going to eat whatever I want this weekend because on Monday, I'm starting my diet!"

Monday comes and here is how it goes:

I am SO ready to do this. I've tried dieting so many times but THIS time, I'm going to stick to it! I have a plan to stick to 1500 calories per day. Calories are calories, right? I'm just going to limit the amount of food I eat each day and exercise for at least 30 minutes per day. My first few days are going pretty good. I'm hungry but I'm sticking to it. I really want to lose those 25 lbs! After about 1 week in I start to question my ability to stick with it. This is HARD! How do people DO this?! I haven't seen much change in my body either and I am frustrated beyond belief. Friends invited me out to eat and I REALLY want to eat those cheese curds and french fries! Did Sally just order chicken wings?! Ugh! I WANT CHICKEN WINGS! My temptations get the best of me and I give in. Who needs stupid diets anyways. These wings are so tasty! I finish eating and the guilt starts to set it. I thought I was doing so good and there I go again, failing miserably. Maybe I'm not cut out for this diet and exercise thing. I will just eat what I want the rest of the week and then on Monday, I will start again.

There's a good chance that you have been in this position. Maybe you've tried dieting to lose weight, or to simply be healthier. No matter what the reason, DIETS DON'T WORK. Here is what is ACTUALLY happening in the above scenario:

Monday starts and I stop eating. Essentially, I stop fueling my body with what it needs to be able to sustain normal function. On top of that, I start exercising to burn calories. So I'm eating 1500 calories and burning 300, which leaves my body with 1200 calories to try to sustain itself. To top THAT off, I'm not actually giving my body the nutrients it needs. I'm eating low sugar, low fat foods that are sweetened with artificial crap and my body isn't thriving. I'm barely surviving. I feel sluggish, tired, irritable and I am craving everything I see! These are ALL signs of nutrient deficiency. THIS is why I gave in to the chicken wings. It's not that I didn't have will power. It's not that I couldn't stick it out. I'm not weaker than everyone else. I was STARVING myself!!

So, maybe we're going about this the wrong way. Maybe we need to STOP STARVING our bodies, and START fueling them! It's about feeling good and having energy. I have changed the way I look at nutrition and dieting. I have done a complete lifestyle change and I am a happier and healthier person because of it.

If you or someone you know could benefit from reading this, please share it! And if you or someone you know would like some tips or help with making these changes in their lives, leave a comment or message me. I'm here to help everyone I come across. All you need to do is ask. :)

Why not you?

2014-10-02T13:39:00.001-07:00

If you have been following my posts here or on Facebook, by now you know that I am a Beachbody coach. WAIT! Please!! Keep reading! :) Just consider for one minute that what I'm about to say, could HELP you. Consider that what I'm about to share with you, could change your life in a way you never thought possible. Give me one minute. I mean, you clicked this link for a reason, right? ;)

So by now you know I'm a Beachbody coach and the passion that I have for the company's beliefs and core values regarding health and wellness. These core values are so in line with my own, it's hard NOT to get excited and passionate about what I do! BUT, what you may NOT know is that this hasn't been easy for me. I've really had a difficult time putting myself...my entire LIFE out there, because let's face it, we all have things about ourselves we are not proud of. And we hide it from the world. But what I've noticed in this journey is this: hiding hinders progress. And I almost feel badly for hiding something that has changed my life so drastically. Coaching as given me an opportunity to share my struggles with health and wellness with YOU all and help you throughout your own journeys.

So today I am looking for just 3 people who want to join my team and begin building a business of their own! You do not have to have finished your journey to join my team, you just need to be willing to START. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do I want to have a positive impact on other people's lives?
2. Do I want to change my current state of health or wellness to be the best me I can?
3. Do I want better for my family or my children than I am currently able to provide?
4. Do I work hard? Can I commit myself to making these changes and building a better life?
5. Do I want to improve my financial health? Could I use a little extra money to make the car payment, or perhaps the mortgage payment? Maybe even replace my current income?

If you were able to answer YES to ALL of these questions, I want YOU on my TEAM! This is your chance to change your life. This is your chance to DO the things you've dreamed of doing! The things you've always said you'd do "when I have more time" or "when I have more money". The time is NOW my friend. The ship is leaving. Are you on board?

Comment below, email me or message me on Facebook if you want to learn more about what this coaching thing is all about!

And before you completely close your mind to the idea of trying out something new, remember these lyrics from Natasha Bedingfield's song "Unwritten":

Staring at the blank page before you
Open up the dirty window
Let the sun illuminate the words
That you could not find

Reaching for something in the distance
So close you can almost taste it
Release your inhibitions
Feel the rain on your skin

No one else can feel it for you
Only you can let it in
No one else, no one else
Can speak the words on your lips

Drench yourself in words unspoken
Live your life with arms wide open
Today is where your book begins
The rest is still unwritten

21 Day Fix and LOVING IT!!!

2014-09-20T09:52:00.001-07:00

My first 2 weeks of 21 Day Fix have been AWESOME!!! The group I'm running is doing great and I've had so much fun with this challenge. The workouts have been a bit more challenging that I anticipated, but that's a good thing considering I was used to P90X and Insanity. It's a nice break from the extreme workouts.

I'm doing a giveaway for my next challenge group! I want to help you achieve your goals so if you feel like you could use a little extra help with meal planning, portion control, and guidance throughout the 21 days, let me know! This is a great program for everyone!! Sign up by September 30th and I will give a $20 Visa gift card! Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity!

Gains over losses

2014-09-14T19:42:00.001-07:00

I recently learned that a very good friend of mine has decided to "unfollow" me on Facebook. Some of my posts about the changes I've made to positively better my health and my life have upset her and she has a difficult time reading them. At first I was really hurt and fairly confused by this. But I have to consistently remind myself that everyone is on their own path. She is at a point in her life that is different than mine. And that is OKAY. I respect and accept that we are at different points in our lives. And while I'm saddened that she cannot be supportive at this point, I support her decision and feelings about it. Because I love her no matter what. I love my friends and family and strangers alike. And at the same time people are unfriending or unfollowing me, others are reaching out to me asking for help. And THAT is the reason I do this. I'm willing to lose a few followers over what I post if it means that I can help even one person on their journey to building a better life.

Today is about YOU

2014-09-05T08:11:00.004-07:00

It's 6 am and the alarm goes off. Today is the first day of your new journey. You've committed to making a change in your life. You have been sick for too long. You've been depressed. You've been tired and unhappy. You've began to hate everything about your life including getting up in the morning.

Today that stops. You have committed to making that change. YOU are in control of your life. YOU are the writer of your own story and today is a new day. A blank page. You're starting fresh; starting new. You realize it won't be easy. It will be the hardest thing you have ever done. But you're committed. You know this is what you need and you are willing to make the sacrifices to make a change in your life. You will fall off the wagon. You will feel defeated. You will hit that breaking point where you feel like you cannot do it anymore. You will think it's too hard, and that you don't have the strength.

You will want to quit.

But...

YOU WILL NOT QUIT! You will push through! YOU can do this. YOU WILL do this. You have GOT this.

All of those thoughts running through your head. All of the tears, the fears, the unknown. Squash them. Feel them, and then squash them!

You are the writer of your own story. Today is a new day. What do you want it to say?