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PiYo Week 3

Week 3 of PiYo definitely had it's ups and downs - literally and figuratively. 

Let's talk about the positives first. This week, we were introduced to 2 new workouts - Buns and Strength Intervals. Buns is a very intense lower body workout - you'll definitely be aware of your buns in the days following this workout ;) Strength Intervals brings back some of your traditional cardio that some people may have been missing during the program. There are, of course, low impact options. It's a quick circuit training workout - using only your body weight & will really get your heart rate cranking!

Something that I really started to notice this week was the increase in my flexibility. After years and years of working out - but doing the bare minimum when it comes to stretching and flexibility, my muscles had become so tight (hence a lot of my back problems). My muscles are now really starting to stretch out and lengthen and I'm now able to do a lot of the poses with greater range of motion and control. The pain in my back and neck seems to be getting better week by week - to the point where it's barely existent at this point - which is just so amazing to me. 

We also went away this past week - on a little mini family vacation. There was a solid 72 hours where I wasn't eating as clean as I could have been. I wasn't going crazy, but I did indulge a bit (and the mint chocolate chip waffle cone was worth every single calorie). By the time we got home, I felt exhausted, sluggish and just "off." I got on the scale Monday morning and it had moved in the wrong direction - which was no surprise. But I got refocused Monday & Tuesday & as of this morning, I'm back to the weight I was a week ago. So, while yes, it's a little disappointing not to have lost anything this week - I have to remind myself that I also didn't gain. I maintained and I chose to have those few indulgences this past weekend...with no regrets. Everything in moderation. 

This morning something kind of awesome happened in my workout...but I can't spill the beans yet! You'll have to check back next week for my week 4 update!!!

I've got a few spots left in my #getschooled Challenge Group. This group is going to be unlike any one I've ever done before. I am going to be running this group alongside 4 other Coaches who are on my team. 

Combined, the 5 of us have lost over 220 pounds and we are going to be sharing all of our secrets with YOU and "schooling" you on how to achieve your fitness goals and maintain them. If you want in, we need to chat soon because the group starts in August! Are you ready to #getschooled with us???

xoxo,

Low-Fat Blueberry Bran Muffins

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups wheat bran
• 1 cup non-fat milk
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup all purpose flour
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup blueberries

Method:

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease muffin cups or use paper muffin liners. Mix together wheat bran and milk, and let stand for 10 minutes.
• In a large bowl, mix together applesauce, egg, brown sugar, and vanilla. Beat in bran mixture. Sift together all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir into bran mixture until just blended. Fold in blueberries. Scoop into muffin cups.
• Bake in preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until tops spring back when lightly tapped.

Yields 12 muffins - enjoy!!!

PiYo Week 2

174. That's usually where my heart rate is when I run or do cardio. High impact, intense cardio.

So, yes, it came as a bit of a shock when I was in the middle of one of my PiYo workouts this week & I looked down at my heart rate monitor and that was the number I saw. 174. I wasn't jumping. I wasn't running. I wasn't kicking or punching. I was doing my new favorite PiYo routine called SWEAT (and you'll understand why it's named that once you do it). I was pushing myself hard, but it was all low impact.

After my workout, I was taking my much deserved and much needed shower and I got to thinking... I have many other workout programs at home - some from Beachbody, some not. I have a bad back & bad neck. And, in almost all of the programs, there's at least a few exercises where I see them & think "I better even not attempt that because I know it's going to hurt my back." That hasn't happened in PiYo! I've not been afraid to try anything. I've been able to at least attempt everything. And, if I can't do something, it's not because of my back. It's simply been because I haven't built up the strength in the rest of my body yet. This makes me happy. Strength is something I can work on.

My body continues to respond so well to this program. My joints are still pain-free (yay)! Because I'm pain-free, I'm sleeping better (double yay)!! And because I'm sleeping better, I'm waking - without an alarm - everyday between 5:00-6:00am (triple yay)??? No, I don't particularly "like" getting up that early, but that's what my body is doing naturally. It's getting the rest it needs & I'm ready to go when my eyes pop open - which in turn, is making for a more productive day.

Because it's week 2, I've become more accustomed to the routines. I know what's coming next & therefore, I've been able to mentally prepare a bit better and push my body harder than I did in week 1. So yes, 2 weeks in & I'm still sore. With each day, I try to modify a little less and at least try some of the more advanced moves. 

In my second week of PiYo - completing the workouts, following the nutrition plan (except for those 3 days where I did the 3 Day Refresh & drinking Shakeology daily - I've lost an additional 2.2 pounds - which brings my grand total to 7 pounds lost in the 2 weeks. But, for me, as awesome as that is, that's not the most exciting part. The most exciting part to me is that I can now say that my back pain has been reduced by at least 90%. I still have some dull tightness in my lower back, and a teensy weensy bit in my neck - but that's it. And compared to the pain I was in 6 months ago - this slight pain is nothing. With each workout, my body is getting stronger & more flexible & my back is reaping all of the benefits. I could not be happier with my results thus far. 

I've got a Challenge Group forming that will start in the next few weeks and if you think that you may want to give PiYo a try and join us, please let me know. I'm even doing a giveaway for those who join my #getschooled Challenge Group...so, what are you waiting for?

Check back next week for my week 3 PiYo post & have a great day!!!

3 Day Refresh Review & Results

The 3 Day Refresh. What is it exactly??? Well, essentially in just 3 short days, you can get your health, energy, and vitality back on track—all without starving. You'll conquer your cravings. Get a flatter belly. Feel lighter and more energized. And your clothes will fit better. 

But, this isn't like traditional cleanses or detox programs where you may be hungry or feel weak. You'll be getting plenty of protein - thanks to Shakeology & your twice daily Vanilla Fresh shakes. You'll get to eat REAL FOOD. And you'll also get your daily Fiber Sweep to help keep you feeling full and it also helps to gently get rid of waste from your digestive system. 

So, yeah, let's go there. When you hear waste, cleanse, fiber & detox...your mind goes straight to the toilet. This is not a harsh detox, so no, you're not going to spend all day in the bathroom & you're not gonna feel like you "have to go" all day. 

And when exactly is the best time for YOU to do the 3 Day Refresh??? It can be used anytime! Maybe you over-indulged on a holiday weekend. Maybe you want to feel a little more comfortable in your swimsuit on vacation this summer. Maybe you have a special event coming up & you want that perfect outfit to fit just a bit little looser. Or maybe, you just need a jump start into improving your overall health. 

What kind of results will you get from the 3 Day Refresh? Results will always vary from person to person. I like to be completely open & honest with people. If I like something, I'm going to tell you. If I don't like something, I'm going to tell you that, too. I was a little underwhelmed by my visible results. I lost 0.6 pounds (which I admittedly was a little bummed about), BUT I lost an INCH in my waist in those 3 days. That right there is why I always tell people to do both - weigh AND measure yourself. An inch in 3 days is awesome! I will tell you that if this program is something you're thinking about doing - go do your research. Don't be dissuaded by my results. Look at others who have done the program. Most people lose 2-10 pounds. People heavier than me lost more than me and people lighter than me lost more than me. Bottom line is that it varies from person to person. But, let's not focus solely on the results we "see." Even though I didn't see an earth shattering drop on the scale, what I did was still oh so good for my body. I wasn't hungry. I didn't feel weak & my body does feel refreshed after those 3 Days. 

If you think that this program is something you may want to try, let's chat. For the month of July, it's on sale & I'd love to get you into my upcoming #getschooled Challenge Group. Happy Tuesday!!!

PiYo Week 1

I sat patiently by the window, looking out side, listening for the mail truck. And, in the distance, I could finally hear it. The mailman was coming down my street and inside of his truck, he had my PiYo. I was like a kid on Christmas tearing into that box & what was inside did not disappoint.

Chalene Johnson fans have been waiting YEARS for PiYo to come to DVD for home use. Yes, YEARS. Up until recently, you could only take PiYo at a gym or health club. Now, we can get our PiYo on in the privacy of our own home.

I had taken my before weight, photos and pics and I was ready to roll. Day 1 is Align: The Fundamentals. Now, I know - we are all tempted - even me - to skip those instructional workouts because we think we know what we're doing. Trust me. Go through this DVD. You'll learn a lot and still break a sweat. 

This first week of PiYo has changed a lot of things for me. I will be honest - this year has been a struggle for me. Getting up early to workout out has been sporadic, at best. I'd squeeze my workout in whenever the day allowed. Sometimes that was after breakfast. Sometimes it was when the kiddos napped. Sometimes it was at night. I was not scheduling my workouts and my Type A personality didn't like that  - even though it was entirely my fault for sleeping in almost every single day. Sometimes I just don't want to get up and jump around at 5 am, ya know? But, with PiYo, I've easily rolled out of bed each morning before the kids got up. I think mentally knowing that I've got a low impact workout ahead of me makes me dread it a little less. Heck - I don't even have to put on shoes for PiYo. Yes, I still need to be mentally and physically awake to do PiYo - it does take quite a bit of focus - but it's just different.

Speaking of getting out of bed...yes, that's mentally easier now, but also PHYSICALLY easier. I am feeling something that my body has never felt before. If you're like me, the day after an intense workout, your muscles are sore - and so are your joints. Specifically knees, hips and back - and maybe ankles, too. With PiYo, I'm sore. I have sore muscles in places I didn't know I had muscles. But, my joints DON'T ACHE. It is the weirdest - and most glorious feeling - to get your butt kicked in a workout - and not be in pain or discomfort the next day. Just sore :) I'm walking taller. More confident. And feeling like a total badass at the end of these workouts because a lot of the moves are really challenging. I feel good about ME. And I haven't felt that in quite some time.

I was skeptical. Yes, I love any program - fitness or otherwise - that Chalene puts out. But, I really was skeptical. Could I get some real results with just doing a workout that is Pilates & Yoga inspired? Come on...I'm used to jumping, kicking, punching, lifting, and HIIT workouts. Will my body respond to something so low impact??? The answer is a resounding YES. But first, let's talk about the other component of PiYo - the nutrition.

I'm eating. A lot. By the end of most days, I'm literally having to force down my dinner because it's so much food. Nutritious, delicious, filling and oh so good for my body. I'm drinking Shakeology. Every. Single. Day. Did I cheat my first week at all? Yes, I confess. I had a skinny latte once from Starbucks (and I have no intention of giving that up). But, the rest of the week, my nutrition was on point. 

Ok, let's get to the details that you really want to know. DID YOU LOSE ANY WEIGHT??? Before I answer that, I want to stress - I do not live my life by the scale. I don't let it determine my self-worth or my mood for the day. It's not the boss of me. I'm a #GIRLBOSS and a scale will NOT determine my happiness. That being said, the scale is the easiest way to measure. So, that's what I use on a weekly basis. It tells me part of the story & is one of the tools I use to gauge my progress. So......drum roll please.....in my first week of following the PiYo workouts (and only the PiYo workouts), following the nutrition plan and drinking Shakeology daily...I've lost 4.8 pounds. Yes, in a week. And I'm not the only one who is loving this program. Check out what some of the participants in my PiYo Challenge Group are saying...

"I'm loving this meal plan!! Very easy!!!"

"I've started the workouts and meal plan and I'm soooo pleased and motivated to be seeing results right away!"

"I worked through the first workout this morning - the fundamentals.... I am really excited to start this program! I will be modifying alot; i can tell...but that is ok...as long as i am focusing on my goals - that is all that matters!"

"2 days of the PiYo workouts and strictly following the meal plan must be the ticket...I saw minus 4lbs this morning also! Wahoo!"

"I completed the Align and Lower Body videos today. I felt like I got a great workout and the shorter length makes it much easier for me to incorporate into my busy days. Even though it was a lower body workout, I felt it in my arms too!"

So, if you think PiYo may be something that you want to incorporate into your life, message me here and we can discuss which program option will best suit your needs. Otherwise - stay tuned. I'll be providing weekly blog updates during my 8 week PiYo journey!

Have a fantastic day!!!

What Exactly Is It That You Do???

I come across a lot of people from day to day who think that they may want to be a Coach, but they're just not sure what exactly it is that we do. They know we love fitness. They know we love helping others. They know we love our Shakeology. But, that's it. That's all they know.

People who have taken part of my Challenge Groups have a little more insight. I know this because a majority of the Coaches on my team were former Challenge Group and Test Group participants. They use the products, they see the value in having an accountability group and they know the system works. So, signing up to be a Coach is a natural progression for a lot of them.

But I know that there's still so many of you out there that have an interest, but you just don't understand what goes into it, how it works & you have a ton of questions. So, I've decided to put together a Team Foundation Fitness Coach Internship group for all of you who want to learn more. This group will be 5 days and is completely FREE. During the 5 days, you'll get a glimpse into the world of Coaching. You'll learn what we do, how you can earn an income, how you can help and inspire others - plus I'll answer any other questions that you may have. 

So, if you'd like to apply for my Coach Internship group, just click HERE and fill out the quick application! Our group will start July 7 & spots will fill up fast! I'm so excited to be able to have a way to share this opportunity with all of you! 

An Exhausting End To An Emotional Week

In life, we are forced to make choices. If we're smart, we evaluate our options and choose the best option for us AT THAT TIME. I am a goal oriented person. I also have priorities in life. I have chosen NEVER to let my goals get in the way of my priorities. The two must align. If a goal doesn't align with my priorities, then it needs to be pushed to the back burner for the time being. A very wise person taught me this.

That being said...even when we make the right choice, that choice can still sting a bit.

This past week was Beachbody's annual Coach Summit. I had gone last year and had the most amazing time. When I got home from Vegas last year, I had immediately bought my ticket for Summit 2014. It was a goal of mine to go back. But, as most of you know, my mama was diagnosed with cancer last fall. Once that happened, I needed to readjust...to realign. By December, I knew I was going to need to book my hotel and airfare soon. But, we still didn't know what the outcome of my mom's cancer battle was going to be. My mom has ALWAYS put me first in her life. Always. And now, I needed to do the same. I needed to be here for her in case she needed me. My William went through some speech therapy last year. It ended when he was 3 & we waited a few months to see if he would continue to progress. He did, but not at the rate I wanted him to. So, for the past 3 months, we've been to numerous dr appointments, screenings, evaluations, etc to see what's going on. We still don't have all the answers. But, we are in the middle of the process of getting him some more intensive therapy...and the MOUNDS of paperwork are overwhelming. The past month or so - he has made tremendous progress...using words I didn't even know he knew and stringing together sentences like a pro. Again, my family needed me here. My boys are my life. My miracles and I would do or give up anything for them. But I won't lie. I sat in my room Thursday night, in tears, watching the general session from Vegas. My head wanted to be there...but my heart knew that I was in the right place. At home. Accessible to my family. It was tough scrolling through Facebook & Instagram seeing everyone's posts and awesome PiYo swag they were getting in The Core (the shopper in me was yearning to be buying up all the cute clothes). But, deep down, I knew I had made the right choice. My family is a priority. And a goal of going to Vegas at a time when my family needed me seemed to not align with my priorities. There will always be another Summit...and Nashville...I'm coming for you in 2015!!!

Then came today. I was supposed to run my third half marathon. My husband started coming down with a cold Friday night and by Saturday afternoon, my sweet Will had it. I don't know why, but colds seem to hit that poor kid so hard. The pre-race adrenaline was setting in last night, so I didn't fall asleep til about 11pm. And then at 1am, I was awoken by the most awful sound. My kid loudly gasping for air. I went into his room and he was trying to cry, but he couldn't even do that. The wheezing was so bad and he was so miserable. I contemplated taking him to the ER, but after some snuggling in our bed, I was able to get the wheezing to calm down a bit and I tucked him back into his bed. But like a protective mama bear...I laid in bed...listening...making sure he didn't start coughing or wheezing or crying again. And just as I was about to drift off...it started again. I snuggled with him some more and then tucked him back into bed. At this point, it's 3:40am. Crap. I have my alarm set for 4. I may as well get up. It was all I could do to stay awake on my way to the race. I just wanted to sleep. But once I got there and met up with my running buddy for the day, I was feeling better and adrenaline started to kick in again. We hit the start line and ran. I usually run alone because, well, I run slow. Like molasses slow. But my friend Tania also runs that pace, so it was nice to have someone running by my side. We were making really good time and at about mile 3, something kinda popped in my hip. Crap. I pushed through for a bit, but at mile 5, I was getting dizzy from the pain and I told Tania to go. This was her first half marathon and I wasn't going to mess this up for her. By mile 5.5 the tears started to flow. I kept pushing as hard as I could. Walking when I needed to and running when I could. But by mile 8.4, I was done. Limping. My right leg didn't want to move on its own. I hobbled over to the finish line...but just sat on the sideline. My first DNF. Did Not Finish. Running another half marathon was a goal of mine. But my family and my personal health are at the top of my priority list. My boys need a mom who is able to walk and function. Yes, I believe in pushing yourself to a certain point, but pushing yourself too hard can be hazardous. And today I had to make that judgement call. My heart said to keep going, but my head said STOP. But the beautiful silver lining is that I got to watch, and video, Tania as she crossed the finish line of her first half marathon. I still got to be there to witness that accomplishment. I'm beyond proud of her. I know I made the right choice by not finishing. Yes, it stings. But, it was the smart thing to do. I'm in a boatload of pain and I can only imagine how much worse it would be if I had gone another 5 miles.

Has the past week been an ideal one? Goodness no. But, that's life. We make choices. We make sacrifices when needed. We make sure our priorities stay in the forefront of our goals...

RECIPE: My Mama's Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas

For any of you that have ever had my mama's sour cream chicken enchiladas, you know it's like heaven on a plate. And yes, when I post recipes here, I try to keep them as healthy as possible. However, this is the recipe that I get asked most for, so I'm putting it out there for you all. You creative chefs can, I am sure, find some ways to make this a little more waistline friendly...but here's how I make mine.

Ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients
• 1 package of 8 inch flour tortillas (use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier alternative)
• 2-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (bake these ahead of time. It is ok to under-cook them a bit as they will finish cooking in the crock pot. Once cooked, cut into small pieces)
• 4 cups cheddar jack cheese (you can go low fat here)
• Wet Ingredients
• 1 16oz container of low fat sour cream
• 2 small cans of cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (small or medium size) of chopped green chilies

Method:

• Combine: chopped chicken breasts & cheese in 1 bowl
• Combine: all wet ingredients in 1 bowl
• Spray crock pot with non-stick spray (or use the crock pot liners for super easy clean up. I still spray the crock pot liner with a bit of the non-stick spray)
• Line the bottom & sides of the crock pot with a thin layer of your wet ingredients.
• Take 2 flour tortillas - rip them up and make a layer
• On top of that, put down a layer of wet ingredients
• On top of that, put down a layer of dry ingredients
• On top of that, rip up and put down a layer of 2 flour tortillas
• Continue making layers until you're out of ingredients
• Cook on low for 4 hours 

Enjoy!!!

If It's Still In Your Mind...It's Worth Taking The Leap

This particular blog post is one that has been in the works - mentally - for a while. I knew today was coming up. I knew what I wanted to say. But, I was searching for the perfect title for the post. And then, a fellow Coach posted this pic to her Facebook feed and I knew that was it. It summed up everything I wanted to say.

"If it's still in your mind...it's worth taking the leap." 

As many of you know, 2 years ago, my husband was out of work, I was a stay-at-home-mom to 6 month old twins and we were broke. I had been a Beachbody customer for years & the idea of Coaching had been in my mind for MONTHS. Part of me though it'd be a cool thing to try. Part of me thought "don't waste your time or money...you're going to fail at it." But, I just couldn't get it out of my head. Trust me - I tried. I didn't want to think about it. It just kept popping up.

I received some money from Mother's Day as a gift. The shopaholic in me wanted to hit the mall ASAP to buy shoes or some makeup. But a voice in my head kept saying "Coach. Coach. Coach." I call it God. Call it a higher power. Call it intuition. Call it destiny. Call it whatever you believe in. So, a little begrudgingly, I took my money - that I'd much rather be spending on other things - and signed up to become a Coach. I will be 100% honest. I had no idea what I was getting into. I figured I'd do it for a few months, say "I tried" and then throw in the towel and quit. Two years ago - I took that leap...

As months went on, I started attending local events & the positive energy I felt from fellow Coaches was infectious. I always left meetings with a smile on my face and a laser focus with what I wanted to do. I started setting goals. I started building my team. I started expanding my network. Has it been all sunshine and roses? No. Like any job or business, there's good days and bad days. But those good days are SO GOOD and they outnumber those few bad days. 

Beachbody had helped my physically. Shakeology daily & my at home workouts have helped me shed the baby weight - and then some. But more important than that, Beachbody has given me freedom in a job that I never had before. I don't have to request vacation days. I can work from anywhere - my couch, an airplane, in the waiting room of a dr's office, sitting outside in the sun, in the car...literally anywhere....and at any time. I get to choose who I want to work with. And the best part is that I don't have to give up any time with my kids to do this. I knew when we started a family that I wanted to be at home. But, when that time came, we had no idea how much of a financial impact that would have. Our family literally doubled in size and our income got cut in half. Now I can be at home with my kiddos & work before they get up or when they nap. It's truly the best of both worlds.

A few weeks ago, I was sitting in my car. I received a text from my upline sponsor, Brittnae, thanking me for all of my hard work. I took a second. Looked down at where I was sitting and immediately responded back with a "thank you for getting me involved in this business because I would literally not be sitting where I am right now if it wasn't for you." Last fall, my CR-V, which was a 1998, finally was getting to the point where, to pass inspection, we were going to have to put more into it than it was worth. I NEEDED a new car. I knew the exact one I wanted (because I had put it on my PUSH Goal list for the year). As I was texting Brittnae, I was sitting in my Honda Pilot. The SUV I've wanted since it got released. And I can say with 100% certainty, that owning that vehicle would not be possible without Beachbody. Earning enough money in a week to pay for a car payment may not sound like much to some, but for us, it's HUGE. When I see that car, it's not just the car I wanted. When I look at it, it reminds me of everyone I've worked with these past 2 years. The people who have made a commitment to themselves to change their lives and get healthy. It reminds me of all of the amazing people in my challenge groups. It reminds me of my team. 

I have been able to meet the most amazing people. Travel to places I've never been. Do things I never expected to do. Never in a million years did I think I'd still be doing this 2 years later. 

It's been a wild ride - lots of up and a few downs - but I am thankful daily that I took a chance...that I took that leap...and I owe it to this girl right here... Brittnae - thanks for sticking by me & being there for me. You're a mentor, a friend, a sister :)

If you think that you're ready to take the leap with this amazing opportunity, let's chat to see if it's the right fit for YOU!!!

My Mama

My mama. Some of you know her as Mary. Some of you know her as Mrs. Shannon. Some of you know her as Miss Mary. Some of you don't know her at all. But, I want to preface this post with a heartfelt THANK YOU to all of you who have shown us support as my mom has battled Stage 3 endometrial & uterine cancer.

As I look at myself & my life - there is no doubt that my mom has had a profound influence on where I am and what I'm doing. 

With fitness: my mom was always active. She had numerous Jane Fonda & Joanie Greggains VHS tapes that she'd workout to all the time. And right by her side - me. I watched my mom workout and perhaps the most influential part is that she never made it seem like work. It was fun for her. Something she enjoyed doing. Something she enjoyed getting me involved with. She had a body that moved and she was thankful for it. Exercise was a privilege, not a chore. Thirty some years later, here I am. Fitness Coach & Fitness Instructor. I used to workout only when I could be alone. It was my "me time" where I just zone out. And yes, depending on the workout now, that's sometimes still the case. My kids would get bored watching mommy run on the treadmill for 5 miles. But, if it's a day where I'm popping in a DVD, I bring them into the room with me & encourage them to participate. I want to instill the same thoughts into their head that my mom did with me. Exercise is a privilege. A healthy body is not something to be taken for granted. 

With my obsession with make up: this was something that also started at a very young age. My mama had a VHS from Lynda Carter - yes, Wonder Woman - called Secrets To The Perfect Make Up. I'm surprised I didn't wear that tape out. My mom would give me all of her old make up, put me in front of the TV with a mirror, let me watch the tape & do my thing. She'd let me experiment with all the different colors & try new things. If we were friends in elementary or middle school, there's a chance you did this video with me at a sleepover or on a Saturday afternoon. I'm not a very creative person - artistically speaking. But, when it came to make up - it always fascinated me. It was never about covering up flaws...it was always about bringing out & highlighting your best features. I could sit around all day in Sephora or Ulta and just play. 

My mom has always supported me. When I told her I wanted to go to college as a Theater major, she supported me. When I wanted to switch my major from Theater to Nursing, she supported me. When I wanted to switch my major from Nursing to Business Management, she supported me. When I wanted to run a half marathon 6 months after giving birth to twins via c-section, she told me to go for it. When I told her I was going to become a Beachbody Coach, she was thrilled. No matter what I've done in life, no matter how sane or insane the choice I was making, she's always supported me. 

And now it's my turn to show my mom some extra support - and you can join in too!!! Next month, I'm running my 3rd half marathon. Perhaps my craziest running decision to date because of the amount, or lack thereof, of training time & also the time of year. I don't like to go outside in the summer to get the mail, let alone run 13.1 miles. But, this race is about more than that. It's about doing something hard. Something that pushes me far outside of my comfort zone. It's about running those miles for my mama because I know she'd do the same for me.

As you probably know, my mom's cancer treatment over the past few months was successful. Earlier this year, she was declared cancer free. However, the doctors wanted her to go through another round of chemo just to make sure all of the cancer cells were gone. This round of chemo will be more intense. She will lose her hair this time & will feel more ill/rundown. This has not been a fun process for her to go through. She has her good days and her bad days. But I can't tell you how important all of your thoughts, prayers, cards, phone calls, texts, etc. have been to her. She's so encouraged by all of the love and support. Going through this second round of chemo isn't something she wants to do. But, she is doing it because we want her here. 

She's now 76 years old. And other than this stupid cancer & a little arthritis, she's in fantastic shape. I will consider myself lucky if I'm in as good of shape at age 50 as she is at 76. 

I've decided to start a little campaign called Miles For Mary & I encourage you all to get involved. This is all about getting up & moving. Getting as many people involved as possible. So, whether you're a runner, a walker or maybe you're taking a leisurely family stroll around the neighborhood, all I ask is that you take a picture during/after your walk/run and post it. If you're on Facebook, tag me in the post so that I can see the pic. If you're on Instagram, tag me in the post & use the hashtag #milesformary on the pic. I want to be able to show my mom all of the pics of everyone walking and running in her honor. I know this will bring such a huge smile to her face. I created a shirt with the #milesformary hashtag on it & I'll be wearing it during my half marathon next month. If you'd like to buy one too, you're more than welcome to! There are unisex t-shirts, ladies tank tops & youth t-shirts available. 

Unisex Tshirts click HERE
Ladies tank top click HERE
Youth Tshirt click HERE

Thank you all again for your outpouring of support - it truly has been a blessing to us!!!

21 Day Fix Participant Results

By now, you've all heard me rave about how much I love the 21 Day Fix. But, today, I want to share with you some of the results from my Challenge Group participants.

I opened up the group in March & we had people starting all at different times in the months of March and April. So, while everyone is on a different day of the program - we are still going through it side by side and supporting each other along the way. I couldn't have asked for a better group. They are all so supportive of each other and it's been so rewarding to watch them blossom with confidence over these past few weeks. Check out some of their results...

L.L. lost 12 pounds 21 days
A.V. lost 4 pounds in her first 14 days
E.P. lost 9.5 pounds 21 days
A.D. lost 4.6 pounds in her first 14 days
C.H. lost 20 pounds in 28 days
L.M. lost 4.6 pounds in 21 days
M.S. lost 5 pounds in her first 10 days
A.C. lost 15 pounds in 41 days

It's been so cool to watch their transformations. Not just the physical ones, which are fantastic, but the mental and emotional ones, too. They're stronger - mentally. Able to pass up temptations. Getting up early to get their workout in. Getting their kids involved. Bringing their workouts with them when they travel to make sure they stay on track. I could not be more proud.

If you're looking for a change and are ready to give me just 21 days to make some new habits, let's chat and get you going in my next Fix group!!!

I'm Not Getting Any Younger...

Time to talk about one of my favorite things - make up!!!!! More specifically, It Cosmetics.

Let's face it, I'm not getting any younger. I'm much wiser about my skin now than I was years ago. From many years spent laying out - sans SPF - and many years in the tanning bed - all of which now make me cringe - I've got some skin damage & pre-mature wrinkles. And next to my wrinkles, there's zits. My skin isn't sure if it's 13 or 35. It's oily in most places & dry in others. So, finding products that work with my aging, yet acne prone skin, are hard to come by.

About 2 years ago, I happened upon a make up artist on Instagram by the name of Tiffany Lee Bymaster - you may know her as Coach Glitter (www.coachglitter.com). Tiffany KNOWS HER STUFF!!! 

She had posted about a product that peaked my interest. The Vitality Face Disc. It's an anti-aging matte bronzer, luminating powder and blush - all in one big compact!!! I love multi-tasking products, so I decided to make my first It Cosmetics purchase.

Vitality Face Disc

This thing is amazing!!! First, the disc itself is HUGE. The bronzer is a matte bronzer - which is fantastic for contouring. The blush is a beautiful peachy pink color that will flatter any skin tone & the luminating powder is a great highlighter. I've been using this product for 2 years now and I absolutely LOVE it. 5 out of 5 stars!

Since that first purchase, I've been starting to incorporate more and more It Cosmetics into my make up kit. First and foremost - because they're anti-aging - and I need all the help I can get in that department!!! Second - the quality of the products is so high. Rarely do I purchase a cosmetic product, use it up and then purchase the same thing again, but I've found myself doing that with the It line because the products are that good. 

Next up are a few products that came in a kit that I got off QVC last summer: Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Concealer, Vitality Lip Blush Hydrating Gloss Stain, Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Radiance Illuminator & Your Brows But Better Brow Power Skinny Pencil.

Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Concealer - what I love about this product is that it's truly a full coverage concealer. It will cover under eye circles, acne scars, tattoos, you name it. It also stays put all day. And, it's another multi-tasking product as it can also be used as foundation. Oh yeah, and it's waterproof & sweatproof - so ideal in the humid summer weather. What I don't love about it is that it sometimes feels tacky on my skin. You know those lip glosses that feel tacky and gross on your lips & your hair gets stuck in them...sadly, this kind of reminds me of that. It never feels dry on my skin - even after setting it with powder. But when I really need the extra coverage - I break it out because it beats anything I've ever used in the coverage department. 

Bye Bye Under Eye

Vitality Lip Blush Hydrating Gloss Stain - ok, so you know that gross tacky gloss that your hair gets stuck in that I was just talking about??? This is the exact opposite!!! The Vitality Lip Blush Hydrating Gloss Stains feel amazing on your lips. It's a stain and gloss - all in one!!! Once again, packed with anti-aging properties - this is like a lip color & lip treatment all in one. In the same family are the Vitality Lip Flush Butter Glosses. They feel just as amazing on your lips - just without the stain! I'm a lip gloss junkie - I probably have hundreds. But these are always in my purse as they're my favorites!!! 

Vitality Lip Flutter Butter Gloss & Hydrating Gloss Stains

Don't adjust the color on your screen. Yes, the top gloss is blue. News Anchor Blue to be specific. The gloss goes on completely clear on your lips but it’s infused with blue micro-crystals that counteract yellow in your teeth and give you a brighter, whiter smile! It’s derived from an old news anchor secret where they used to mix blue eyeshadow with clear gloss and wore it over lipstick for a whiter looking smile on air. Below the blue Butter Gloss are the Gloss Stains (in Sweet Rose & Je Ne Sais Quoi). Don't let that light gloss on the bottom fool you. That one packs a punch!!! It's got self-adjusting color that pops up as a beautiful bright pink once you put it on. 

Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Radiance Illuminator - ahhhhhhh - this stuff is so amazing. It's one of those products that I purchased, used it up & purchased it again. This is a fantastic product for highlighting - and it actually looks natural on. It doesn't have those huge flecks of glitter like a lot of highlighting products have. Its so creamy, it glides on easily, blends beautifully & makes your face glow in all the right places.

Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Radiance Illuminator

Your Brows But Better Brow Power Skinny Pencil - before I critique this product, let me say this: I've never been a fan of brow pencils. I much prefer powder to define and fill in my brows. But, since this came with the kit, I gave it a try. It does go on smoother than any other pencil that I've used. It stays in place & is easy to use. However, it's supposed to be a universal taupe shade. My eyebrows are way to dark to fill in with a taupe colored pencil. So, this looks quite unnatural when I use it. Like I said - I just prefer powder to use on my brows. To each his or her own :)

Your Brows But Better Brow Power Skinny Pencil

Last fall, It Cosmetics had their friends & family discount and if you ordered, you could get 25% off of your order. I had been eyeing up the Your Skin But Better CC Cream with SPF 50+ for some time, but I was nervous to purchase it. As I've mentioned, I've got oily, acne prone skin. CC creams usually don't give me the coverage I need. Also, anytime I've used a foundation that had SPF in it, it makes me break out like a hormonal teenager. But, I'd been so impressed with their products so far, I figure now was a good time to try it - seeing as I could save some money on it. The name of this product says it all. I don't know how they do it. It's full coverage - but it doesn't look like you're wearing any foundation. It just looks like your skin. It's got staying power, too! I used to wear this when I taught TurboKick & at the end of the hour - my makeup was still in place and looked as good as it did when I started class. This is another one of those products that I've bought, used & bought again. It's so good!!!

Your Skin But Better CC Cream with SPF 50+

Celebration Foundation is up next. Coach Glitter RAVES about this product. She uses it on Chalene Johnson - which you'd think that'd be reason enough for me to up & buy it. I have never, ever had luck with powder foundation. It never looks natural on me. My friend Chelsea ended up buying this foundation. She sent me her before & after pics which totally wowed me. I still was nervous to try it, but I finally did. Once again, color me impressed! Another full coverage product - which I love!!! But this goes on differently than some of the other powder/mineral powder foundations I've used. It's not dry and talc-like. It's a powder, but goes on quite creamy. I know, I know...why do I need a powder foundation when I love the CC cream? Different product, different purpose. Some days, I only have a few minutes to get ready. Powder foundations go on in a flash & some days, that's what I need. Also, in the summer, I don't always have the best luck with liquid foundations, so I prefer something like a powder (although I've yet to try the CC cream in the summer, so we will find out how it holds up soon). Celebration Foundation is another waterproof/sweatproof product - so it will stay in place until you're ready for it to come off.

Celebration Foundation

Airbrush Blush Stain is up next! I've got this in the Rose Glow color. I love cheek stains - because of their staying power. But I'm the worlds worst blender of cheek stains for the liquid kind. It always looks like I let my kids paint on my face. This gives you the staying power of a stain, but with the application ease of a powder blush. It goes on beautifully and stays put. It's a very sheer & natural looking color that I LOVE.

Airbrush Blush Stain

Bye Bye Lid Lines - I will admit, I've used, and been happy with, another shadow primer and have used it for years with no problem. I NEED to use a shadow primer, otherwise my eyeshadow creases and doesn't last. My reason for trying this - again, I'm loving all of the anti-aging properties that the It Cosmetics have. This product lives up to it's name and helps keep your shadow looking fresh all day.

Bye Bye Lid Lines

Bye Bye Pores HD Micro Finishing Powder is the perfect setting powder and all over face finishing powder. This powder is infused with hydro collagen to smooth lines, luxurious silk for a poreless finish, and vitamin K to help reduce discoloration. It also contains anti-aging anti-oxidants Vitamins A, C, and E to help ward off free radicals throughout the day. The powder looks really white, but goes on translucent & blends easily for a perfect finish!

Bye Bye Pores HD Micro Finishing Powder

And last, but not least, the Naturally Pretty Eyeshadow Palette. I was really excited when this product came out. I currently have and LOVE the Urban Decay Naked Palette. Their shadows are insanely highly pigmented, they blend beautifully & stay on all day. It's one of the best palettes out there. However, most of the shadows in that palette are shimmery. Which, I like. But, as we age, those shimmery shades don't always look great on our eyes. Plus, I like a matte eye look, too. So, I finally broke down and got this palette. A lot of the colors in the Naturally Pretty Palette are similar in color/shade as the Naked Palette. Where this palette differs is that they're all matte colors. BUT, there's a cool "transforming pearl" shade that can be applied on top of any of the matte shades to give them a very sublte shimmer. So, it's really like you're getting 28 shades of eyeshadows in one palette. The shadows are also highly pigmented, blend easily & have staying power. 

Naturally Pretty Eyeshadow Palette

Needless to say, I've been thoroughly impressed with a majority of the It Cosmetics that I've tried. I don't work for them, I just really love their products & when I love something this much, I like to share!!! This post has been a long time in the making, but it's perfect timing if you've been thinking of trying their products. Now through April 8, 2014, you can get 25% off of your It Cosmetics purchases with their Friends & Family discount! Just type the code CELEBRATE when you checkout at www.itcosmetics.com and the discount will be applied!!!

Happy Shopping fellow It Girls!!!

Chalene Johnson's PiYo - COMING SOON!!!

The news a lot of us have been waiting for finally became official this week!!! 

If you follow Chalene Johnson, you know that she's been hinting at this for a while now. We knew she was going to have another workout program coming to DVD and everyone kind of "knew" what it was going to be...we just had to wait for the official word.

And we got it!!!!!

PiYo is going to be released this year at Beachbody's Coach Summit!!!

So, what exactly is PiYo??? It's a unique program that is designed to build strength and gain flexibility. The moves fit perfectly together to form workouts filled with intense choreography that’s fun, challenging and will make you sweat. It’s about energy, power and rhythm. Think sculpted abdominals, increased overall core strength, and greater stability.

With Beachbody's Coach Summit being at the end of June, I expect (do not quote me on this because we haven't been given a release date) that PiYo will be released at the end of June or beginning of July.

I am going to be all over this program. Chalene's programs are my favorites and I can not wait to add this to my routine. Want to be in the know for when more information comes out??? Just click HERE and enter your info. I'd love to have YOU by my side as we go through the program TOGETHER!!!