The Healthy Lantern

"The Fast Metabolism Diet" Review

2013-05-21T09:45:00.004-04:00

I received a copy of The Fast Metabolism Diet by Haylie Pomroy by SheSpeaks to read and try out.

Here's my thoughts...

The book cover claims "lose up to 20 pounds in 28 days" as well as "eat more food and lose more weight". The concept of this dietary routine revolves around the principals of three phases that are designed to enhance your body's metabolism by creating a 'guessing game' that will keep your metabolism on 'fire'.

Phase 1 (Monday-Tuesday)

Lots of carbs and fruits

Phase 2 (Wednesday-Thursday)

Lots of proteins and veggies

Phase 3 (Friday-Sunday)

All of the above, plus healthy fats and oils

There were points that I found very on key including what is 'food'. The author describes what food has been throughout the ages...NATURAL and how we have incorporated science into our current 'food'. As a science minded individual, I LOVE science, but not when it is being injected, sprayed, and used to concoct super plants.

She also goes onto to mention that people who exercise regularly and limit caloric intake still have issues losing weight, her opinion is that their bodies are learning to store all foods as fat because their metabolisms have been starved and therefore slowed to a minimal output. She also claims that "calories are a lie" she bases her weight-loss equations on the principal that each individual is going to burn or use calories(energy) differently. She suggested not falling prey to the 'calories are bad' agenda by marketing campaigns and avoiding eating "empty calories" instead eating nutrient dense calories/foods.

Later she discusses how the body has "5 major players" that make our individual bodies target foods differently and how they work as the major components of our metabolism.

I will say she does have a few rules that although I agree with were hard to implement for me. There are ten "do's" and ten "dont's". they all make since logically and from my research and studies in diet and health...but in today's grocery stores of convenience packaging and marketing can be tough!! This book does a great job of making suggestions for diet, scheduling, recipes. and suggesting exercise etc...

Overall I feel my diet is similar to the book's suggestion minus the 3 phases of dietary focus, which is why I feel I didn't notice a marked improvement in my metabolism, mood, energy, etc...

BUT...BUT I do feel if you are not on a healthy or mainly natural (clean) diet, meaning healthy fats, good proteins, and loads of fresh veggies and fruits, this book just may change your body and for the good!!!

In conclusion of my review, I would recommend this book to those who have struggled on 'diet' plans or who have fallen prey to the 'diet-trap' where you do your Jenny Craig or Weight Watchers, try to move onto management and gain everything you lost right back and have to return to the diet over and over again like a vicious cycle...TRY this!!!! It isn't really a diet, it is a 28 day plan to spark your body, help you see food as more that calories, and help you set up a VERY VERY doable lifestyle dietary change. You eat REAL food, you don't have to weigh in or buy special snacks or heat and eat foods...it is real food that is healthy and your body needs!!

Disclaimer: This book was sent by SheSpeaks for me to read, trial, review at no cost to me. The above opinions are my own and are only influenced on my personal experience and are written honestly.

Additional Resources

Website: http://www.fastmetabolismdiet.com/
Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/hayliepomroy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hayliepomroy
Program Hashtag: #FastMetabolismDiet

Happy Mother's Day!!

2013-05-09T13:22:00.002-04:00

I am hoping some of you all are finding great deals on special sweets and treats for your mom or those moms you know!!

I wanted to toss out a HUGE thank you for the awesome surprise. Apparently Whole Foods was celebrating moms today and just by walking in the door I received a flower and a tote full of goodies!!

Also thanks for my friend Julie for suggesting my mother's day gift that I will post next week...hey, I can't spoil the surprise!!

Please feel free to comment below any businesses that are making this week/weekend special for moms!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all moms and moms-to-be

Feliz Cinco de Mayo

2013-05-05T18:21:00.001-04:00

We are having shrimp fajitas, homemade salsa, and fresh pineapple to celebrate our neighboring country.... Feliz Cinco de Mayo from our casa to yours!

Doggie Treats, homemade love for Fido!

2013-04-16T13:11:00.000-04:00

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup processed Peanuts (blended into peanut butter)
1/4 cup chopped peanuts
1 cup All purpose flour
3/4 cup Whole wheat flour
3/4 cup Butter, melted
1 Egg
1/4 cup Brown sugar
water as needed

Optional Frosting:

1 tsp peanut butter
1/2 tsp shortening

DIRECTIONS:

Take 1 1/2 cups of peanuts and process in food processor until creamy separate, take the other 1/2 cup and pulse till chopped
Mix both flours and sugar
Add in 1 cup peanut butter and crush peanuts, blend (mixture will be dry and crumbly
Add in egg
Add in melted butter , if too thick add in water till cookie dough consistency
Roll out and cut or mold into shapes place on greased or lined pan
Bake at 325 degrees until cooked through (roughly 10 mins)
Cool

Optional frosting:

Melt shortening and PB, dip treats/cookie bottoms into mix or drizzle onto, place on parchment or wax paper till they are cooled and set up

SUGGESTIONS:

For wheat free substitute AP flour with Oats and WW flour with oat, rice, or almond flour
To substitute for butter and shortening use 1/2 mashed banana with 1/2 cup applesauce (PLEASE KEEP THIS VERSION REFRIGERATED TO PREVENT SPOILAGE!!)
Add in fresh chopped parsley and mint for fresh doggy breath (I recommend fresh herbs instead of dried)

Measure out ingredients

Combine flour and sugar

Use kneading tool to mix in peanut butter mix
and peanuts until well blended and crumbly

Add in egg and melted butter

Bake at 325 until well cooked

Package to gift!

Why should you live green?

2013-04-04T13:57:00.000-04:00

Baby Steps for Green Living

Reduce. Reuse. Recycle

Notice the order ↑

Why do I feel so passionate about trying to live more green?

The effects of our over indulgent lifestyle is becoming more and more obvious
I want to be a good steward of all I have been given
I believe "to whom much is given, much is required"

America is one of the most prosperous and wealthy countries, we own more businesses, more cars, more tvs, more -stuff- than any country on the plant, to me this means we should be more responsible, more diligent, more thoughtful towards our effects on the world we share

I want my children to see that I take pride, care, and concern for the world and the people who live in it.

I am not a hippie, far from, I am not as green as I'd like to be, but I try.

It started out with plastic bags, think about it, where do those bags go?

Here are some websites to check out!

National Geographic-Plastic Bags
Bag It- Movie A MUST MUST MUST SEE!!! Find it on Netflix streaming!!!
Plastic Bag Facts

Five years ago I made a pledge to reduce. reuse. recycle and I started small with plastic bags. I switched to reusable canvas bags for shopping-guess what I still have them, I still use them and they are strong, hold more groceries & purchases, and at several stores I get MONEY for using them!!! I also love knowing I am keeping bags from filling up landfills, and polluting the ocean. When I don't have my bags on hand I reuse them as garbage bags or take them to bag recycling centers (which are found at most grocery stores now and Target)

Three years ago I switched to using more enviro (& people friendly) cleaners. I still have some chemical laden ones, but I use diluted vinegar for soooooo much. It is cheap, works great!! I use it to freshen smelly laundry in the wash, to clean my dishwasher, my hardwood floors, my windows, my stainless, my counters- it is great stuff! I also love Mrs. Meyers cleaners. They smell AWESOME, are natural and I don't worry about leaving chemicals behind on our surfaces!

Two years ago I decided to continue recycling even though curbside wasn't available. I will admit, driving to the recycle center isn't fun and is very much out of the way, but seeing the bins full of recyclable goods reminds me I am not alone on trying to keep our 'stuff' out of the ground and oceans!

This year, I have decided to curb buying bottled water, and HEAVILY limit buying bottle beverages of any kind! We don't really drink bottled water, but have it on had for guests or traveling, but really why?!? We have a whole house filter and why not use the reusable drink bottles we have on hand when traveling? There are water fountains nearly everywhere, so I can fill up for free. We don't drink soda, but keep it for family/friends that visit. We will do cans from now on, they are more easily recycled in whole. As of currently most recycling plants can only recycle the bottle and not the lid or the seal ring. Why is that such a big deal to worry about the seal ring and small lid?!?

Sorry for the graphic picture, but this is what is ending up in animals across the globe

These photos are why we should care. Every animal was made for this earth for a purpose, even spiders and snakes, two creatures I DESPISE! We all depend on the animals doing their jobs just as much as we depend on the air we breathe. These animals that we as humans are in domain over, do not know the difference between our waste and their food. We were given 'humanity' for a reason, to rule over the beasts of the land, creatures of the sea and air. We should care and do our best to consider our actions.

I don't know if I will have inspired any change in anyone reading this, but I hope so. I don't live in a van by the river, I don't live in a home made with all recycled parts, or ride a bike instead of a fueled vehicle, but I am trying to make small changes that aren't hard, or difficult, only different in hopes of making a difference.

Remember when thinking how to be green: first try to REDUCE your intake of stuff REUSE what you have or donate to charities that will and lastly RECYCLE what you can't reduce or reuse.

Most stores offer reusable bags for $1. Try buying 1 new bag each grocery visit until your normal grocery purchases fit in the number of bags you have. Take your bags to other stores like Target, Kohls, Walgreens!!! Ask if they have bag credits and get paid to bring your bags! Check out bags online like this site: ReUse It- Shopping Totes

Influenster Sugar 'n Spice Voxbox

2013-03-22T10:00:00.002-04:00

INFLUENSTER Sugar 'n Spice Voxbox

NECTRESSE Packets by Splenda
belVita - Cinnamon Brown Sugar Breakfast Biscuits
Colgate Optic White

Toothbrush
Paste
Mouth rinse

Dickinson's Witch Hazel Towlettes
Vaseline Spray and Go - Total Moisture

I was ecstatic to be able to try these products and see what they would bring to my daily morning routine.

REVIEWS:

NECTRESSE packets

These are sweetened with monk fruit and are zip, zero, zilch calories. I opened a packet and tasted a bit, it does have a different flavor from other sweeteners. No bad after taste like Stevia, but a distinct lightly fruitly flavor which I guess is the monk fruit?!? I tried them in my morning cup o' joe and I couldn't tell a distinct difference between my normal sweetener. I sprinkled a packet on some beautiful, but not quite ripe berries and my daughter ate them before I could try, so I guess they tasted good! I haven't tried them in baking and probably won't since opening up a zillion packets would be time consuming, but for small sugar needs, I think the packets do the trick!

belVita breakfast biscuits

Small and crunchy they are packed with a delicious brown sugar flavor and they are delish dipped in your coffee and my sweet kiddo said they were "very tasty" in her milk too! I like that they are not just biscuits but are integrated with nutrients and vitamins making them a great choice for a non-breakfast fan, such as myself, to get a healthy start on the day! I did notice that I was hungry early than usual and craving sweet things, but that could be for a zillion reasons!!

Dickinson's Witch Hazel towelettes

Natural...so I honesty was biased towards it to begin with. But they cleaned off my make-up with breeze (please note I do not wear mascara so I can't attest to that). The smell was slightly medicinal (the witch hazel). My skin felt clean and not irritated or burning. So I hope they continue to work well as I am always up for new, natural skin care products!

Colgate Optic White

I have to admit I have sensitive teeth so I was a bit leary to give these the ol' college try. So my husband got too!!! We are an electric toothbrush family so we didn't use the brush, but the taste seemed to be ok for the paste and rinse and he said his mouth was left feeling "clean and fresh". I hope to come back and update this once he has had a week or two to continue trying.

Vaseline Spray & Go

Easy to use, fun, and seems to leave my skin so soft. The smell is ok and mild, but in researching online, I think I will find a blissful companion in the cocoa butter one, especially this summer-I love cocoa butter! Just like the commercial shows it is easy to apply and no pumping to worry about. My husband wonders if there is as much product as a similar weighted pump lotion since it is an aerosol lotion, but I think that residual lotion that hides on the bottom of the regular bottle, or the stuff that clings to the sides, or is forever lodged in the pump straw kind of equals out! Just an FYI for moms....do not leave your kids unattended, don't ask, just let your imaginations take you to the place where a 5 year old girl discovers spray lotion and all it's fun HA HA HA.

DISCLAIMER: These products were provided through the Influenster program from their respective companies at no cost or obligation to me. These reviews are my own, honest, and not influenced by anything other than my own personal experience. No further compensation, outside of these sent products, has been given.

Turkey Sausage & Kale Soup

2013-03-11T15:56:00.000-04:00

Turkey Sausage and Kale Soup

Well, it may not look pretty, but it is healthy and uber scrumptious...oh and easy peasy to make!

INGREDIENTS

1 lb ground turkey (I use 99% lean)
1 large bag chopped kale (1.5 lbs, I use Glory Foods washed, cut Kale)
32 oz, chicken broth/stock
1 tbsp sage
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4+tsp ground red pepper
salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

Saute ground turkey with sage, garlic, red pepper, and a dash of salt & pepper. Stirring and chopping it until cook through.
Add broth and kale greens, if there seems to be not enough broth add a bit of water or broth (we like ours more stew like with less broth)
Simmer over low to medium low heat for 10 mins, or longer, kale should be tender but not mushy
Serve!

season with crushed red pepper for more heat,
parmesan sprinkles,
add in rice for more heartiness
cooked quinoa,
cooked barley,
cooked pearl pasta .

Chicken Chile Verde

2013-03-04T13:06:00.005-05:00

Canned Chicken (I LOVE Sam's Club canned chicken...will NOT use any other!) or 2 chicken breast boiled in stock and shredded
12-16 oz chicken stock (use this to boil chicken if using chicken breast and re-use in the soup for extra richness)
1 can green diced chilies (any size can, the more you use the more MILD spice it adds)
1 can cannellini beans or other white bean (you can either rinse or add in straight from can)
8 oz verde salsa, green chili sauce, or green enchilada sauce
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp cornstarch mixed in with 1/4 cup cold water

ADD-INS

cheese, crushed tortilla strips/chips, sour cream, salsa, rice

Makes about 5- 1 cup servings, this is a low calorie soup that will fill you up, just watch the add in's if you are watching calories! Use low fat or no fat options to decrease calories and fat content!

Cook and shred chicken if using breasts, otherwise add in all ingredients except beans and cornstarch mix.
Cook over medium low heat for 10-15 mins stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom
Add in beans and cornstarch/water mix
Turn up heat to medium and while constantly stirring, allow mixture to reach slow boil, turn heat to low and simmer a few minutes

Serve with crushed tortilla chips, cheese, salsa, sour cream, whatever tex-mex soup add-ins/ons are your favorite!! Or serve over a bed of Mexican rice or a baked potato

It is a mild soup that warms you up!!! If you like more spice add in a few drops of your favorite hot sauce or crushed red pepper flake

L'Oréal BB Cream Review

2013-02-20T13:30:00.001-05:00

SheSpeaks and L'Oréal teamed up and sent me a tube of Magic Skin Beautifier BB Creme in Light.

Design:

The tube is easy to open, easy to store, and seems pretty sturdy (no explosions in your purse!)

Use:

I found it pretty easy, straightforward directions, and very simple application. I simply applied a few drops to my forehead, nose, chin, and cheeks, and massaged in to ensure coverage of my entire face.

Product:

It comes out opaque with a purplish tint to it, which I have to be honest made me a bit nervous. *please note I do not usually wear anything besides occasionally applying blush, mild eyeshadow, and eyeliner* It quickly transforms and blends with your face. The whitish purple creme turns almost orange as you apply but within seconds is 'magically', I guess that is why magic is in the name, matches your complexion.

Results:

I tried to get a few before and after shots but honestly they were not able to capture the results in a way I was hoping. I will say my 5 year old daughter watched me put it on and she said I no longer looked tired!! So I may not have instantly been transformed to Red Carpet glamor, but I will take looking less tired any day!!! I noticed my complexion seemed even and radiant, but not overdone. I am usually a HARSH critic of foundations because I loathe the feeling of weight on my face and I don't like worrying if the shade matches my skin, because let's face it your coloring changes each season and for me it changes all the time depending on how sunny it was the morning I took off running! This creme answers that with it's ability to blend to your complexion no matter what season. It also felt so lightweight. I would liken it to a light facial moisturizer. I was really afraid of feeling 'caked' but it was feather light, so if it didn't bother my usually lotioned only skin, I can assure you it is light and very natural in appearance covering and masking a few minor blemishes I had!

Negatives:

I was bummed to see parabens in this product. I think I would rave over the moon about this product if I knew it were paraben and phthalate free.

Positives:

Easily found at local big box retailers, drug stores, beauty chains, & grocers with beauty lines. It is inexpensive, if you are used to purchasing makeup, for people like me it would be an added cost. I do think the tube would last a while considering it takes such little product to reach full effect. It is easy to apply, looks natural, and also feels natural.

Overall:

Will I continue using this? Probably not on a daily basis since I am not a make-up girl, but for church or dinner out yes!!!

I want to thank SheSpeaks and L'Oréal for sending me this product to try and review. Although the product was at no cost, my only obligation for receiving it was to write my opinion, good or bad, candidly and honestly to my readers.

Zatarain's Big Game: Cravebox

2013-02-11T08:55:00.000-05:00

I have written about Cravebox before, a delievered box with themed content. One of my most recent was the Zatarain's Big Game Cravebox that arrived just in time for the Superbowl.

What a perfect box for a New Orleans themed Superbowl!!!

Out of all the content the household favorites were the beads...yes cheesy I know but who doesn't love mardi gras beads?

The mustard, to be frank, has not been tried, but I plan on making a mustard glazed salmon with it and I will hopefully have that recipe up afterwards!

The Zatarain's Creole Seasoning is PERFECT for making a GREAT gumbo, jambalaya, or a seafood boil pot, and can we say all you can eat creole shrimp (YUM!)

We have all, or I hope we have all, heard of jambalaya and red beans and rice. I think I can say besides making your own from scratch, Zatarain's has these fool proof methods for good southern cuisine!

True Lemon makes some great products, all natural, low calorie, and well simple and simply good!

If you are interested in starting delivery of themed craveboxes check them out and sign up. You can pick and choose which themes interest you and they are around $10-$15 per box. If you decide to sign up, please list me (Christin Lilly) as your reference!! Thanks!

Back to School Snacks: Cravebox

2013-02-08T13:57:00.001-05:00

Cravebox is a great way to try new products along a certain theme. It is a package filled with samples, savings, and full size items to try, delivered right to your door.

The boxes cost about $10-$15 per box and are filled with goodies!!!

I purchased the Back to School Cravebox to see and try some new healthy snack alternatives.

This box was loaded!!! I can decide out of all the items which was my "mom" favorite, it is a tie between the Barilla pasta kit and the Earthbound farm coupons that were AWESOME coupons and I love their products!!!

My daughter loved the Sunrype fruit snacks and the Honest Kids juice pouch.

All I can say is I was amazed that Barilla had ZERO preservatives (I honestly expected to see a bazillion ingredients when I read the label, boy was I pleasantly surprised!!!!) and that Honest Kids juice was so low in sugar, although I still will limit juice and fruit strips to a minimum due to dentist recommendation, I have to say the products were on the healthy side and nutritious!

Check out Cravebox and let me know what you think!!! If you sign on, be sure to mention me in the referral line!! Many Thanks!!!

House Party and sodastream UNITE! +giveaway

2013-02-06T08:15:00.002-05:00

House Party teamed up with sodastream to create a fun way to through a Superbowl Party...

sodastream Fizz & Football House Party

I have to say I was thrilled to have this opportunity and my husband, well he never needs much of an excuse to eat massive amounts of wings, yell loudly at the TV, and have friends over! We had pretty much gone away from soda for various reasons, not healthy, loaded with sugar and chemicals, and the recycling bins filled TOO quickly.

In reviewing the sodastream I found it super easy to find at various retailers and their products are more natural including some that are from all natural ingredients as well as flavor essences to add to sparkling water. As a family trying to be eco-conscience we love how the soda stream eliminates so much of the typical waste associated with carbonated beverages.

You simply use your own tap water into the reusable and recyclable sodastream bottle
press down and the system carbonates the water
add flavor of your choice
when the carbonation cartridge is empty take it to an authorized location for a 'swap out' (very similar to propane tank swap out)

It honestly is so easy, prior to our house party we tried it out, it is so simple my 5 year old had a blast helping out!

I encourage you to check out sodastream's website to discover all the variety of flavors!

We tried them all below are the fan favorites from the sample packs:

Diet Pink Grapefruit, Diet Cola, Dr Pete, and Orange (the kiddos!)

Personally my favorite combination is medium fizz with their Diet Cola *WARNING* It tasted sooooo good that I kept checking the bottle to make sure it was diet (NO I am NOT kidding!). Another note is the soda tastes a million times better if the water is fridge chilled prior to making. Also the bottles hold the carbonation well and I think that the flavors may even taste better the next day!

Below is a giveaway for 3 lucky persons. The giveaway is for one $20 rebate form for the sodastream of your choice. The retail prices range from $79.95- $199.95 and many retailers offer special savings incentives, if you time your rebate just right, you might get a steal-of-a-deal on a sodastream for your house!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Rainy Day...ANY DAY Kid Activity! GIVEAWAY!!!

2013-01-29T09:13:00.002-05:00

If you have kids, nieces, nephews, cousins, or just like to color, you need to check out

KIDWARE

This is a fun, user friendly website that converts photos into unique creations. You can take any photo and transform the image into a comic book-like design or into a coloring page.

There are different programs you can look into:

The Basic Program allows you to upload a photo and transform it into a coloring page ready for printing.
The Deluxe Program allows you to do the same with the added extras of saving the image and adding captions as well as being able to toggle the contrast to get a beautiful crisp ready to color image.
The Comic Book Version allows users to upload a photo and have it converted into a neat, retro image that looks like it has been ripped off the pages of a comic book!! The designer behind Kidware suggests printing the comic book prints onto glossy paper for the full comic book effect!
OR...utilize all the available programs and bundle them together for price savings!!

Enter below TO WIN the ENTIRE DELUXE EDITION!!! That means coloring pages with editing and saving capabilities and comic book conversion!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tully's Coffee Review

2013-01-27T13:29:00.001-05:00

Here the birds whistling, the Peer Gynt Suite No. 1 "Morning" playing in the background magically, flowers taking a stretch as they yawn and bloom open, the sunrise a beautiful mixture of deep reds, peach, soft yellows...YAY, another early morning...

OK, so not really

If your mornings are like mine it is better represented as a calamity. Usually I am awakened not by my obnoxious alarm clock but by my sweet child who has yet learned to sleep until the dreadful siren of an alarm clock blares. She comes in perky and happy and wants breakfast. I partially force open my eyes enough to see she has dressed herself and it is not appropriate for the gloomy, rainy, and cold day facing us.

What saves my mornings?

Tully's Coffee !!!! They offer three roasts:

Spirited (light roast)
Balanced (medium roast)
Grand (dark roast)

Most roasts/blends are available bagged, in K-cups, and the new Vue cups. I typically find myself drawn to the Balanced/Medium Blends. I had been a "house" blend drinker, but trying the new Hawaiian blend just may have me switched! Upon checking their website I saw a big variety of choices my local stores are not carrying, but no worries, you can order directly from this website! Join their Café Express and save on your first order and additionally with each order that follows.

Here is Tully's own description of Hawaiian Blend:

Like a well-deserved vacation, this variety holds a special place in our imagination. Maybe it’s the mild sweetness and elegant simplicity. Or maybe it’s because some of the best coffee we’ve ever tasted has been on an island, surrounded by tropical breezes. Either way, our Hawaiian Blend is a place we want to be. Contains 10% Hawaiian coffee and other fine Arabica beans. Product cannot ship to Hawaii.

I do find it amusing that the Hawaiian coffee cannot be shipped to Hawaii HA HA HA! Sorry Hawaii, guess that's the price you pay for living in constant summery paradise!

I highly suggest you try out Tully's coffee and let it help alleviate some of that morning drag and bring on a new start to your day starting with the first sip!

Thank you Tully's Coffee for letting me experience, and fall in love with another blend of your fabulous coffee!

Shrimp and Grits

2013-01-22T17:06:00.000-05:00

Shrimp and Grits!!

Poor picture, but final result!

INGREDIENTS:

1-2 bags medium to large peeled, deveined, tailless shrimp

(preferably uncooked and thawed, or pre-cooked and thawed)

1 green bell pepper seeded and diced
1 small package grape tomatoes halved
1/2 can rotel tomatoes & broth (or omit fresh grape tomatoes and use whole can)
1/2 package Trader Joes Turkey bacon, diced (or any turkey bacon)
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
2 cups chicken broth
4 cups grits cooked according to package

add 1/2 cup low fat/non-fat cheese
1/4 cup parmesan to my grits
instead of butter add 1/4 cup fat free sour cream

salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Saute turkey bacon,tomato halves, bell pepper, rotel with 1/4 cup broth in a large cast iron pot or medium 5qt pot. Cook until bacon is cooked and peppers are tender.
Add in a pinch or two of salt, pepper, garlic salt
When peppers are soft, add in shrimp and cook until shrimp are just about done.
In separate skillet make a roux

melt butter
stir in flour and stir frequently until butter/flour blend begin to turn light brown
slowly add in remaining chicken broth
add this to the pepper/shrimp pot

Stir ingredients together and let the roux/gravy soak in other flavors.

****If the roux wasn't strong enough to make the mixture thick, mix 1 tbsp corn starch with 1/4 cup cold water. Blend well and add to pot.

Plate up grits and serve shrimp mix over top!

Sauteing veggies

Adding in bacon and cooking till done and veggies are very soft.

Poor picture, but final result!

Global Green USA Green School Makeover Competition Presented by Pureology

2013-01-08T13:51:00.002-05:00

Pureology Green Schools Challenge

Use the above title link to enter your favorite kiddo's school to enter for a chance to win a 'green' makeover for your submitted school!

I would love for all schools to offer more recycling, less environmental contaminants through using green/natural cleaners, toxin free carpeting, mercury free lighting, and energy star appliances.

It isn't always possible with the CONSTANT budget cuts and restraints our public schools face, but with the help of this program it is making it possible one school at a time!

I encourage you to stand up for change and feel free to share the link and spread the word!

To enter your school of choice go to the link Pureology Green Schools Challenge and enter your contact information and answer 4 questions about green initiatives/goals for your school and attach 3-5 photos that will help show the areas you desire to see 'green' improvement. Although it takes more effort than a simple 'like' it is worth your time. Imagine what $75,000 could do to improve your school!!!!

January Teen Cravebox Review

2013-01-08T11:00:00.005-05:00

What's in it...

Stride iD Berry gum pack and future savings via coupon
Fruit of the EarthVitamin E oil
Mary Kay Nourishine Plus Lip Gloss
Schick Intuition Tropical Splash Razor
Pantene Pro-V Silky Moisture Whip Sample

Ok, so I am no teen but I loved this box!!! I am a huge fan of Vitamin E oil after having a reaction to poison sumac this summer, I have no scarring which, is surprising considering what my arm looked like!!!

I am anxious to try out all the products and hopefully get back to review each of them as individual components!

If you are interested in having Cravebox delivered to your door, click the link below and if you don't mind I would love the referral! To sign up, click the link below and follow the directions- enter christinlilly as the referral. Let me know that you have applied and I will also do my best to get you on THE list!!

CRAVEBOX SUBSCRIPTION

I encourage you to follow Cravebox on Facebook and Twitter as they often have great giveaways!

Great Last Minute Gift

2013-01-01T13:27:00.002-05:00

Did you forget someone this holiday? No worries, with Ferrero Rocher you can't go wrong!!

Through the Influenster program, alongside Ferrero Rocher, I was given the opportunity to try or give away an 18 piece golden box of heavenly treasures!!

I decided to share this rather than hoard it and gave it to our neighbor as a thank you for inviting us to a fabulous party!

I know Ferrero Rocher are divine, they are wonderful, individually wrapped, delicate chocolate and hazelnut concoctions that seem to be a hit with nearly everyone!

Wonder what is in a Ferrero Rocher?

If you did happen to forget that secretary, bell man, teacher, neighbor, etc...you can easily find Ferrero Rocher products at a variety of chain and big box stores for that last minute grab.

I will leave the excuses as to why the gift is late in coming up to you, but I suggest running it by someone first to check that it is plausible sounding HA HA HA!!

Hope you all are off to a fabulous New Year and don't forget the "golden gift" of the year (at least by my standards!). You can pick up some for others and while you are at it treat yourself to the indulgent gold gift of 2012 and quite possibly 2013 too!

26 Random Acts

2012-12-19T22:16:00.001-05:00

Before January 26, 2013. I vow to follow through and be a part of this movement.

26 Random Acts of Kindness

It is my hope that I continue on with this, not just to honor the lives lost at Sandy Hook, but to live out the faith I hold so dear. I want to show love, grace, and compassion each and every day even if it is simply listening to an elderly person reminisce, or take in a loose buggy someone left out in the parking lot....

I hope you will also participate and not just for the #26 acts, but make it a new 'habit'!

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays from my heart! If I don't post prior, see you in the new year!

LOW CALORIE EGGNOG say what?!?!?!

2012-12-12T10:58:00.004-05:00

YES...

I have created a LOW calorie, low fat Eggnog!! Sound the Bells!!

I need to clean my camera, it is on it's last leg and the pictures are coming out ridiculously blurry but this recipe is super easy! Promise!

INGREDIENTS:

2.5-3 cups Silk Almond Milk Unsweetened (30 calories/cup)

Depends how thick you want your eggnog to be *thicker, 2.5 c almond milk*

1 small package Sugar Free Instant Jello Pudding

I recommend Sugar Free French Vanilla
but SF White Chocolate and SF Cheesecake work fab too!

1/2 cup- 1 cup Xylitol Sweetener or Splenda
Dash, pinch, sprinkle...whatever you want to call it of both Nutmeg and Cinnamon
1/4 tsp Imitation Rum Flavor or Rum Extract

not watching calories, use the real thing, just use the lower amount of milk

DIRECTIONS:

Add all ingredients in blender
Push the magic button
Watch it swirl
Place in fridge for 2-3 minutes
ENJOY!!

***If it is too thick return blender to base and add a splash more milk and blend, do this until desired consistency, but I like my eggnog thick like old fashioned eggnog!

Calorie Comparison:

Horizon Organic Traditional Low Fat Eggnog 140 calories per 1/2 cup (4 oz)

190 calories for the ENTIRE recipe, although I recommend sharing!

House Party/ 3M Streaming Projector w/ Roku Review

2012-12-05T14:23:00.005-05:00

I was given the opportunity to review a 3M Streaming Projector powered by Roku for a House Party. I was sent a variety of party supplies including the projector.

popcorn
paper bowls
plastic cups
hershey's kisses
candy necklaces
3M Streaming Projector, Roku, and adapter

Our house party was a blast, we missed some of the invited guests due to company Christmas get-togethers and illness, but we still enjoyed watching video the night of the party.

We had not registered the Roku yet so we just hooked up the projector to our computer and streamed Netflix onto a blank wall. THE KIDS WERE OVER THE MOON, they thought it was so cool to have the wall as the TV.

Much talk amongst the adult party attenders was about the variety of uses the Projector has:

Work presentations
slideshows at events, sales booths, weddings, birthdays
big screen movies
and my family is going to have a indoor campout using the tent walls to watch a Christmas film (our 5 yo daughter's idea) Brilliant actually!!
everyone loved the portability, it can run off battery power or via power cord
it also has a insert to be mounted on a tripod if desired.

It is easy, super simple to set up and register, you only need to know your wi-fi security passcode (if you have one) and have access to a computer for registering the product.

This would make a GREAT gift for that hard to buy person or tech junkie! Below is a link to my Vlog (warning I am a HORRIBLE vlogger HA HA and can't stand my own voice so it is unedited...you have been warned!)

I was sent the party kit and projector to review with my honest opinions through House Party and 3M Streaming Projector and to share the device and party goods with my party attenders. No further compensations have been granted and I assure you that my opinions, as always, are my own and not influenced by others.

My Favorite Winter Splurge

2012-11-26T16:20:00.001-05:00

I have been using Torani for sometime to perk my 'ol cup o' joe up in the mornings. They have an amazing variety online, but I have found that the selection is limited in most box stores. I find the best in-store varieties to be at World Market.

I usually use the sugar free syrups since they are made with safe sugar alcohols. I am not saying I would pour these on anything and everything or turn up and drink a whole bottle, but I do find the ingredients to be much safer/healthier than most flavoring additives and knowing they are aspartame free is nice and comforting while sipping on my fantastically frothy latte on a cold morning.

Let me just say I saw the pumpkin pie in World Market and already have tried it....but I ran out-QUICKLY. IT WAS DELICIOUS!!!

Here is a review of my favorite flavor:

Pumpkin Pie (sugar free)

fabulous
should be offered year round (maybe it already is)
really, really, really tasty
I think my coffee NEEDS this.
It isn't overwhelmingly pumpkin or spice but just perfect and I love that you can add a little or a lot to match your mood!

Nice warm pumpkin pie latte!!

A delicious iced sugar free pumpkin pie latte (45 calories!!!!)

Favorite recipes I use with various flavors ranging from savory to sweet to fruity

Latte

1 shot espresso, 6 oz Silk unsweetened almond milk (heated), and 4-5 pumps of syrup...delish

Iced Latte

1 shot espresso (chilled), 3-4 ice cubes, 5-6 oz Silk unsweetened almond milk, and 6 pumps of syrup, sometimes I delight in adding Reddi Whip fat free on top

Milkshake

8 oz Turkey Hill 90 calorie Vanilla Bean frozen yogurt, 2 oz FF milk (or Silk almond), 5 pumps of syrup-blend well

Italian Sodas

6-8 oz chilled sparkling water and 3-4 pumps syrup
My daughter loves these once some of the carbonation fades

Flavored Tea

hot tea or cold tea with a few pumps of syrup

As a syrup/topping for...

ice cream
fruit cobblers
pancakes/waffles

PUMPKIN PANCAKES WITH PUMPKIN SPICE TORANI SYRUP ='s BLISSFUL MORNING!

This post is sponsored by SheSpeaks and Torani, however these opinions and recipes are from my own little head. To date, I have not been compensated for this review.

and it was mile 15....

2012-11-12T14:30:00.002-05:00

that started the downhill spiral, ok not technically, it had being going downhill for sometime prior, here's the whole story...

The marathon has came and went. Like most things in life, it did not go NEARLY as expected or hoped for, and for that matter, even planned for.

I had been sick for 3.5 weeks leading up to it, but too stubborn to quit. I left in PLENTY of time to get downtown and park and got stuck numerous times in traffic and one time on a one way road, under construction for THIRTY minutes. Tried to park in a parking garage only to find as I drove to the top that 5 other cars had discovered there were no more spots and trying to wriggle their cars around in the tight space to turn around, and yes I still had to pay apparently you have to pay for disappointment too. I called my husband hysterical and in tears, babbling and just boo-hooing. He did his best to console me and tried to assure me I would find a spot and I would make it on time, he was right...this ONE time HA HA!

SO I showed up at the starting line with the only warm-up being my sprint to the starting line, no stretching and literally being on the tale end of runners. I did fine until mile 15 when my lungs decided they were not 'in it' and decided to jump out of my body via coughing uncontrollably for an entire mile. They finally gave up, realizing I was not going to stop even if I had to roll to the finish line.

Mile 18 is when I wondered if I should just give in, but realized I still would have to walk a LONG way back to my car, so I kept going thinking at least get closer to the getaway mobile!

Mile 24 is where I found all remaining port-o-potties void of TP, which I needed to blow my nose which had been running WAY faster than me since mile 2. I seriously think I stopped at more P-o-P's than were even on the course, seriously, one was for construction workers. I thought I had developed a nose bleed but found that the TP they use in those P-o-P's is closer to bark and it was the exterior of my nose bleeding from the use of bark-like TP. It was also at this point I was on the verge of tears. I was so emotional. I was mad I was sick, angry I wasn't running even remotely close to my desired pace, upset because I felt like I was letting myself, and everyone who had prayed and wished me well, down. I pictured my sweet hubs and precious kiddo sitting at home wondering how I was doing. I could not wait to get back home and be with my biggest fans!! I also began reciting scripture because I knew that I was unable to finish under my own and I truly felt like I connected with some of the verses I have known since I was little. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" and "those who wait upon the Lord, will find their strength renewed, they will mount on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint", in fact that last one was what I chose to have on my bib instead of my name.

BUT it was mile 25.7 that I saw the cutest little girl with a beaming smile and freckles that could melt your heart holding a Kindergarten handwritten sign. (pausing, because the memory is bringing me to tears) A handsome man was standing beside her and I wasn't sure if I was going to make it down the hill to the finish line for all the tears. I wasn't expecting them to come, to fight the traffic and parking and I felt so blessed and realized just how much I had to finish, not just for me, but for a husband who has let me obsess and train for that day, a little girl who has sat in our office and watched TV while I ran on a treadmill, this race was for all of us and although it did not go ANYTHING like how I wanted to, I would do it again!! I may not have hit my projected time, not even by a long shot, but who knows...I may just be looking for another right now!

Palmolive Fresh Infusions Review (+ coupon giveaway)

2012-10-28T12:36:00.000-04:00

I was sent three dish soaps to test out and try. These soaps are by Palmolive and fall under their new product line "Fresh Infusions". The scents were:

Lime Basil
Ginger White Tea
Lemon Thyme

To be honest I thought I was going to 'gift' the Lemon Thyme because I usually find lemon soaps/lotions/etc... to have a fake lemon smell that I just don't care for, but I have to say I think Lemon Thyme tide Lime Basil for my favorite. Although the Ginger White Tea smells divine, I had higher hopes with it's name sounding so heavenly, don't get me wrong, it smells amazing, but I find the other two with citrus and herbal notes more pleasantly intoxicating.

What I discovered in trying all three is that their scents remain, although heavily faded, when washing dishes. I can's say I enjoyed scrubbing my non-dishwasher friendly pots and pans more because of them, but a pleasant luxury smell did help. Perhaps there is more to this aromatherapy than I thought! HA.

I have been familiar with the Palmolive brand since childhood, who hasn't heard of it?!?!? I found that the same cleaning power of the good ol' fashioned green Palmolive Original still exists in this new line that smells MUCH better!!

My suggestion, comb out your local markets until you find this newly launched product and try it out for yourself. Why?? Because face it, if you are going to have to hand wash things, you might as well get some indulgent perks out of it besides clean dishes right? And afterall, buying a new dish soap is HARDLY what I would call a frivolous splurge. Still have plenty of dish soap on hand? You can always use your half filled soap bottle to wash your car or make your kiddos some bubble mix.

Here's some motivation! COUPONS!! I have 5 that I will give away. Each are for $1.50 off.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Taco in a Bag

2012-10-17T16:51:00.001-04:00

Taco in a Bag
It's tasty, neat, fun, and kiddos (& grown-ups too) LOVE THIS!!! BTW...my dearest, sheltered husband had NEVER had taco in a bag, thus the reason we whipped this up. Yes-he was an avid fan!

INGREDIENTS:

Single Serve Chip Bags (we used Baked Doritos for lower fat/calories)
1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup chopped bell pepper (any color/variety/mix)
1 can Rotel tomato sauce
Use the Rotel can and fill 1/2 can with water
3 tbsp salsa (I used Wholly Salsa-medium)
Seasonings-to taste

cumin (1 tsp)
salt (1/2 tsp)
pepper (1/2 tsp)
cilantro (1/2 tsp)

Condiments

fat free shredded cheddar
fat free sour cream
hot sauce
salsa
shredded lettuce

DIRECTIONS:

In medium/large sauce pot, combine beef and peppers
Stirring frequently cook meat/peppers over medium heat until it is about halfway browned
Add in Rotel tomato sauce, seasonings, and salsa
Cook over low heat until meat is thoroughly done and the sauces/juices have cooked down and into the meat.
Take a bag of chips per person, crush the chips, open the bag and add in about 1/2 cup meat mixture
Add condiments on top
Enjoy your taco in a bag----some people like to stir it up in the bag-others like to just dig in through the layers and enjoy!

Meat & chopped peppers (mine were frozen)

Adding in rotel, water, and stirring well to make sure meat is very granular and not meatball-ish

Adding in salsa

Add condiments of choice!