I Made It Through The Holidays....Week 3 Hammer and Chisel Results

I can't believe that it's already the end of Week 3....Day 21.  Christmas came and went, but it was great.  I was able to enjoy some time with my family and friends.  It felt good to..FEEL good in my dress at church.  I hadn't felt good in my clothes in a long time.  

                        

Before this journey started...my pants were tight.  My shirts were getting snug.  I didn't want to dress up because nothing fit me like it used to.  It just felt better to wear my workout clothes and my EXTREMELY big sweatpants. 

But in 21 days...I was able to see a number that at one point was the heaviest I had been in years. Well, that number is a GREAT number to me today.  I have lost almost 7 lbs in the 21 days.  I know that it shouldn't be about a number on scale...and truly...it's not.  But 150 lbs. was the number that pushed me over the edge quite a few months ago...I swore that I wasn't going to see that again.  I knew how to eat healthy.  I knew what it took to maintain.  So why was I happy to see it again today?

Divorce sucks!  Plain as day, simply put.  Some people may lose weight during the process...but nope.  Not me.  I gained.  I ate terribly.  I didn't workout like I should.  I not only got back to the 150 lb. mark, but I surpassed it by quite a few.  So to see that 150 again this morning...was a great feeling.  I have also been feeling better in my jeans, my dress clothes, and have actually been wanting to put on something else than my...ACTIVEWEAR!  :)

So how did I make that happen during the holidays?  Well I was determined.  I had hit a point in my life that it was more motivating and internally satisfying to say NO to all of those treats that kept arriving at the office.  I knew what I wanted to FEEL like...and nothing TASTES as good as FEELING GOOD feels.  I planned in my mind that I would splurge on scheduled days and there was no need to get off the plan along the way.  

I used my new Veggetti (thanks to my great friend Ophie)...and made my first set of Zoodles.  They were so good, that I plan to have them again tonight for dinner.  In order to make a change, you need to accept that you might have to get "uncomfortable" with what you normally do.  I had to say no to treats.  I had to tell friends that I didn't want to come out and have drinks.  I tried a new vegetable and learned that I liked it.  You never know until you try. Honestly, it hasn't been that hard.  Now that I'm 3 weeks in...I feel like finishing won't be a problem.  

I made it through the holidays...and not only DIDN'T gain weight...I lost weight.  I feel like that is an accomplishment in itself.  I can do this.  I'm feeling confident.  I'm feeling empowered.  Who would've thought an 'at-home' DVD fitness program could do that to someone???  When you see results, when you feel the results, when you mentally commit, when you stick to a plan...it is life changing.    

 And to top it all off...SANTA was very nice to me.  I was able to complete my home gym this year.  I was given a weight bench and I bought myself some new weights. This way I can really push myself to my full potential.  It was a great feeling to get up this morning and workout.  Kinda like a kid on Christmas morning.  I used my new "toys"!

Here's to Week 4...stay tuned!

Feeling inspired to begin?  I have an online accountability group that will be starting January 4th. There is still time to get in on the fun and start this life changing experience for yourself. Find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/karen.hendershot.73. Or on Instagram @kmhendershot. Or email me at kmhendershot32@gmail.com.

Let's get you started on your journey today!

Hammer and Chisel Week 2 Review

Week 2...I can't believe how fast the time has gone by.  I have truly looked forward to the workouts each and every day.  

I can honestly say that I feel completely rejuvenated in my workouts.  I was definitely getting bored.  Don't get me wrong...I still LOVE teaching PiYo and Insanity...but I needed a goal, a challenge, an extra push. So Hammer and Chisel came at the perfect time for me.  I also like starting a new fitness routine during the holidays because it is that extra accountability I need to stay on track with all the holiday eating.

So...after week 1 I felt AMAZING!  I was not nearly as sore as I expected to be and I attribute that to the Beachbody Performance Line.  I am literally singing its praises because it works. Each night by the time I went to bed I could tell that my body was going to be super sore.  But by the time I woke up in the morning the soreness partially subsided and I was able to go and crush my workout.  I use the Beachbody Performance Post workout Recovery followed by my Shakeology for breakfast, then at night I have been using the Recharge formula and that is what helps me not feel nearly as sore the next day.  I know that if it wasn't for this routine my outcome might be very different.  

I have also really followed the nutrition plan to the T. I allowed myself 1 cheat meal on the weekend and it was for a staff Christmas gathering.   The definition of a cheat meal for me is this:  Not restricting yourself for 1 meal, NOT an entire day!  It's also having what you want with proper portion control and not skipping your workout that day.  So when we went out to dinner at P.F. Changs which is so yummy...but so full of sodium. I looked ahead of time at the menu.  I did my research on calories and sodium etc.  I did have a couple adult beverages, but I bypassed on the rice or noodles that comes with every entree.  I felt accomplished and on track plus there were no feelings of guilt. I have eaten very clean for 2 weeks straight, no splurges, no sweets, no alcohol.  And my results are showing my dedication to the meal plan and the workouts.  

If you want to see more workout videos hit up my like page at www.facebook.com/karenhendershotinspire or follow me at www.facebook.com/karen.hendershot.73 I do my best to post at least 3-4 videos per week.

The workouts are challenging yet they are very doable.  

The one thing I really love about this program is that it changes every day.  It is not always the same workout and each week is a challenge.  Day 13 is the first time that I actually repeated a workout.  To me, the variety is motivating me to keep going.  I'm not anywhere close to being bored anymore. 

Here are a couple sample videos of 2 of the workouts that I completed this week.

If you are interested in doing the Hammer and Chisel Workout Program, please let me know. I am currently working with others to get our January 4th Hammer and Chisel Challenge Group ready to go.   Make sure that you link up with me if you do not have a coach.  A coach is someone just like me that can help you with the workout program, with staying accountable, on track and focused on the results that you want. 

Hammer and Chisel Week 1 Review

Okay...I did it!!!  It's the end of Week 1.  I successfully followed the calendar and the meal plan for The Master's Hammer and Chisel. My results in this picture may not show much of anything...I mean...heck...it's only been 7 days.  

 BUT for me...this is HUGE.  I had let myself go into a downward spiral of candy eating, adult beverage drinking, and eating out all the time.

I do believe that in moderation...those are all things I think are completely OK.

BUT...not in the way I was doing it.  I have gained almost 20 lbs. from the start of my divorce last March.  AND well...I've just had enough.  It was time t refocus.  

So let's talk day 1, Chisel Balance was the first workout and let me tell you- it was intense!!  But I loved every single minute of it.  I loved the balance component, the focus, the weights, the core and the fact that it was completely different than PiYo or other workouts that I have done.  I was sweating like no other after the workout and I was sore by lunchtime!  It was working!!!

Day 2:  I showed up at 6:00am and Hammer Plyo was on the calendar.  I loved it again!  I just like that they are intense challenging workouts.  I've done the 21 Day Fix, Fix Extreme, Insanity Max 30, P90X so my body is used to the intensity.  But this time I'm challenging myself with what weights I select.  If I want to continue to get great results I have to be willing to push myself further past the limits.  

Day 3:  Iso Strength Chisel is up for day 3.  Even with the performance line supplements, proper nutrition and hydration I'm still sore!  I like it because I know it's working.  Today, again another killer challenging workout.  That 10 second hold is no joke...who ever thought that 10 seconds would feel so long??  

Thankfully Day 4 is rest day! That extra hour of sleep felt AMAZING! I definitely used today to recover (PiYo class actually felt great on my sore muscles) and to get myself ready to rock it out tomorrow.  

Day 5-7 were Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.  I typically have rested on a couple of those days in the past.  But not this time.  I went, I got it done, and I feel great.  

Check out the video below of a snippet of what Chisel Endurance is like.

I'm already in love with this program!  I'm just beyond pumped about it! So you can expect a weekly update from me!  I am committed to doing the entire 60 days and challenging myself to the next level in my fitness. 

What can you expect to get from this program and how do you get started?  Check out the "Unboxing" video below.  Everything you will need for the program is there!  

I will be launching another Hammer and Chisel Challenge Group starting on January 4th if you would like to take the plunge and start the New Year off right!

Email me at kmhendershot32@gmail.com or on 

Facebook at www.facebook.com/karen.hendershot.73

Life is Busy...How do you fit it all in?

Work, volleyball matches, football games, band parent meetings, parent nights, dinner, homework, laundry, cleaning house, taxi cabbing kids around, etc....we all have or had things in our life that make us busy.  Everyone can say that they are busy no matter what job they have, how many kids they do or don't have...society today drives us to be doing something at all times.

So how in the world are you supposed to find time to exercise, read books that help you grow personally, prep food that makes eating healthy more simple, and have some "me" time, etc.???

I do not have all the answers...but what I do know is that everyone gets the same amount of time in the day to get things done.  And you can choose to waste time or you can get things done.  One lesson I've learned in life is that you can't get everything done all by yourself.  Sometimes you need to delegate things out...and so to yourself IT'S OK!  Yes...someone else can do that for me.

1. Delegate things out to those that can help you...for example...we have a housekeeper.  Yes, it's an expense that we pay each month...but it keeps us sane and feeling good about our house.  What we don't have is...cable or u-verse or Direct TV...we never watch it...so why pay for it? That money can be used elsewhere...i.e. housekeeper.

Think...what other tasks could you delegate to someone else?  Lawn work...can kids do that, a neighbor, or a lawn company...what other expense could you get rid of that is a waste? Monthly subscriptions that you don't really read or use???  Do you really need a home phone anymore? I challenge you to think about your budget and how can you do things differently that will impact your life in ways that make things easier on you.

2.  Make a schedule...have your family sit down with you and plan things.  Put your workout on the calender...let your family know that it IS going to happen.  Maybe...just maybe they will join you. It could be part of your family time...rather than being looked at as taking away from family time.  And your kids will probably think it's fun...and your spouse...what a cool way to connect with each other. Those who sweat together...stay together!

I meal prep EVERY Sunday.  It's just what we do...it's on the schedule...so plan other things around that.  What you make time for WILL happen.  If you want to have healthier meals and portioned out for you...make the time to get it in.  Again, have your kids help you.  When they know they have pre-made snacks JUST FOR THEM...they will take pride in making them.  Plus...it helps you from having to answer Can I have a snack? They know they can have one if they've made it for each day already.

3. Listen to your favorite music or podcast when you're doing laundry...it can make that task go by quicker and make it more enjoyable.  There are so many great things to listen to while you're doing chores.  Download a podcast app, find one that you like...and start growing personally.  You'll be surprised how your outlook on life changes.

4. I should have put this as #1, but DELETE those crazy games off your phone.  How much time do you really need to spend playing Candy Crush?  This strategy was on one of the first podcasts I listened to on Time Management.  And wow...did it free up so much time for me.  I could be so much more productive and accomplish things that actually added value to my life.

I'm not expert, and I definitely still need help in other areas of life...but hopefully you can take something away from this post...and make a change in your life for the better.

Share your tips below with how you get it all done. :)

The scale! Is it really important?

 

So I haven't put a blog post out in awhile and that's due to many reasons.  Can it really be from a number on a scale?  Is that why I decided to make a post today of all days?  Am I obsessed with the number?

The real answer is NO!  I normally go by how I look, how I feel, how my clothes fit.  But today...it's a YES!  What does the number 150 represent?  

1. It represents the highest number I've seen on the scale in over 2 years.

2. It represents the slow climb that number has been doing over the past few months.

3. It represents an "unhappy" me that has been going through some serious life struggles.

4. It represents a person that has lost all willpower when it comes to splurging.

5. It represents someone that posts healthy stuff all the time, but eats candy and cookies.

6. It represents pants that don't fit comfortable anymore.

7. It represents how stress can cause weight gain.

8. It represents how this journey in health and fitness is tough for everyone.

9. It represents the miserable times I've been living on the inside lately.

10.  That number...represents someone I don't like....someone that 's not who I want to be.

So today...yes...it's about the number. 

What's my first plan of attack...get my eating under control.  The 3 Day Refresh is just what I need to kickstart this plan.  So Day 1 is today.  I have my food prepped and ready to help me be successful over the 3 days. 

 After the 3 days...what next?

I will be starting and leading a PiYo Challenge group.  And I can't be more excited to get that going.  I NEED it so badly.  When life gets you down, when you feel like you're all alone, when you feel like everything you're doing is just messing everything up for you...

I'm turning to what makes me happy and what I know works.  I'm going to focus on working out each day, following a meal plan, checking in with my challengers and coaching them...but quite honestly...acting like a challenger myself.  Focusing on making ME a better ME...is just what I need.

I may be known as the fitness freak, the exercise obsessed, the twigs and berries girl, the workout lady...but I sure haven't been acting like it lately. 

It's AMAZING what relationship struggles, stress, vacations, holidays, and overall lack of willpower and a "I don't care" attitude can do to the mind, body, and spirit. 

So yes...that number on the scale...it IS important to me TODAY.
TODAY marks a new beginning for me. 
I need to get my own life in check.  Focus on what my body needs...and the rest...well I'm not sure about the rest...

But what I do know is that I will post a different number on the scale in a month or so...and what I do know...is that my post will have a much happier and more confident tone to it. Is it because the number will be smaller? No...but it's because I'm going to be doing what I know I like, what I know makes me happy, and I will FEEL that much better about myself.  That's why my tone will be different. 

Anyone else relate to this at all?

Cilantro Jalapeno Hummus...YUM!

I LOVE hummus. All different flavors. But when I found out that I could make my own hummus and use flavors that I know and love...I was sold.  And man oh man...how easy it was.

This recipe makes enough for 12 servings! So yummy! And 21 Day Fix approved.  It's a blue container for all of you that are wondering.  :) Dip your favorite veggies in there and you have a great snack.  

Ingredients:

1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained - keep 2 tbsp. of juice to add to mixture
1 cup fresh cilantro, or to taste
1 jalapeno pepper, stemmed and diced - or to taste
2 cloves garlic, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed
salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 pinch garlic powder, or to taste

Directions:
Blend garbanzo beans,juice from canned beans, cilantro, jalapeno pepper, garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a blender until smooth

Done...easy, peasy!

Calling all runners!!!

It's almost 60 degrees here today in Indiana and man oh man...the sun is shining and there are all sorts of people outside right now.  We've been cooped up inside for so long this winter...that even though I'm not a runner...I HAD to go running tonight.  It just felt like it was supposed to happen.

You all know I love Beachbody DVD programs and I still do them almost every night.  But...TODAY...running was the workout of choice. Fresh air, a good sweat, and of course a great playlist.

I feel that you have to change up your routine...not just because your body will get used to what you're doing...and changing it up will help you bust through plateaus...but just mentally you should change up your routine every once in awhile.  It keeps things fresh, exciting...and not like a chore.  Plus, everyone needs strength building exercises, everyone needs to work on balance and core strength, everyone needs flexibility.  If you just stick to one type of exercise...you are limiting yourself from the results that you want.

Now, I'm not going to go out and run every day...because like I said...I'm not a runner.  But it felt good tonight.  And the cool thing is...I haven't ran in such a long time....like months.

So what does that say for Beachbody programs??...They are legit.  They work...they get you in shape.  I just busted out 2 miles and I feel great.  Insanity, PiYo, Combat, P90X3, Turbofire, 21 Day Fix...you name it...they help with everything.

So those of you who ARE runners...if you're looking for something to help you with your time, your flexibility, your endurance, etc...there is something out there for you.

Send me an email at kmhendershot32@gmail.com or find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/karenhendershotinspire and let me know what your wanting to achieve.  I'd love to help suggest something that may work for you like it has for me.

Final Results...21 Day Fix Extreme!

So it's Day 22!  I actually completed the 21 Day Fix Extreme from start to finish. 

While I did miss a few workouts every now and then due to teaching my own fitness classes and learning a new routine...what I didn't miss...was keeping my nutrition in check.  I followed the plan, I didn't cheat...except if you call me having a a couple TBSP of almond butter instead of TSP of almond butter a cheat.  Which technically it was a cheat...

But I didn't have one piece of candy, I didn't have one drop of alcohol, I didn't have anything that wasn't on my meal plan.  And to me...that was an accomplishment all in itself. 

I learned that I like to add weights into my workout routine...I've always been a cardio girl, and these workouts challenged me. I learned to try some new foods...and they were good.  For example, I had never had butternut squash or a poached egg before.  Now...I truly like them.  And made some butternut squash for me to snack on this week.

I feel accomplished that I stuck to it when I said I was going to.  I feel good that even though my personal life may have lead me to cheat and endulge on some things that I shouldn't have...I was able to be strong and GET. IT. DONE. 

My food prep on Sunday is something I truly enjoyed doing and will plan to continue that process. 

Today, I used my blue container to portion out my hummus.  I put my blueberries in my purple container...even though it's Day 22.  It's a habit, I liked it...and I LOVE how I feel.  My body just feels so much better.

I would be lying to you if I didn't already eat a Hershy's mini candy bar this morning.  I did...and yes...it's ok.  I feel like I deserve that piece of chocolate.  It tasted great!  But that's all I needed. On with my day! 

I will be enjoying some cocktails with my girlfriends on Friday night....I'm human.  And I enjoy doing HUMAN things.  But what I've learned from this is that everything is in moderation.  I'm going to continue with the meal planning, using the containers for portion control, recipes that I liked during the process, and continue my journey to be as healthy as I can. 

It wasn't about weight loss for me this time.  It was about staying committed.  It was about getting more toned. It was about feeling better.  AND....it worked...all of it.  4.5 lbs and 5 inches gone. 

Here are my results...I'm pretty pleased!  I accomplished something...and that's what it is all about. 


If you'd like to join in my next group and get your journey started...click here!

Drink Something Green???

I will be honest,  I've been drinking Shakeology for over a year and as all of you know...I love it.

BUT...I have never tried the Greenberry. I was scared of the color. It's just something about it being green that made think I wouldn't like it.

I kept hearing everyone say it was good, but I just never truly believed them.

UNTIL...I actually tried it. Yes.. it was good. Actually very good! I kept it simple and added water and frozen strawberries. It was a very nice change to my regular vanilla or chocolate recipes that I've been used to.

So there you have it...from a skeptic to a believer...Greenberry is good! I may just switch my shipment to add it to my rotation. :)

Beachbody Workouts with No DVD's???

Have a laptop, tablet, smartphone???  Now you can workout anywhere, anytime!

We asked...and we are receiving!  Beachbody On Demand!

This is so exciting!  I know that I have wanted this to be an option for soooo long...as have many of you.  Especially when most laptops these days don't come with DVD players anymore.  Now...if you have at  least a smartphone...you can workout ANYWHERE!  Check out the details below.

WHAT IS BEACHBODY ON DEMAND?

Beachbody On Demand is a new feature inside The Team Beachbody Club.

That's right, as part of your Premium (paid) Team Beachbody Club membership, you'll automatically have unlimited streaming access to hundreds of workouts from Beachbody's collection of world-class fitness programs.

This is well over $1,000 USD in value that has been added to the Team Beachbody Club membership. What's more, the price —$38.87 USD for 90 days. (That's a crazy good deal!)

Beachbody On Demand will house a catalog of complete Beachbody workout programs. Here are the programs that will be available to start with:

• P90X® & P90X Deluxe
• P90X2® & P90X2 Deluxe
• P90X3® & P90X3 Deluxe
• P90X ONE on ONE® Volume 1
• 10 Minute Trainer®
• INSANITY® & INSANITY Deluxe
• INSANITY: THE ASYLUM® Volume 1
• TurboFire®
• Brazil Butt Lift® & Brazil Butt Lift Deluxe
• ChaLEAN Extreme®
• Hip Hop Abs®

HOW WILL IT WORK?

When you log in to TeamBeachbody.com as a paid member of the Team Beachbody Club, you simply select the 'Beachbody On Demand' tab from the home page, then choose any fitness program in the Member Library, and press play!

• Convenience: Enjoy 24/7 streaming access from your laptop, tablet, or mobile device. No DVDs required. All you need is an Internet connection.
• Variety: Try different programs that are all proven to deliver incredible results. You can also try out different trainers, workout lengths, or fitness levels before committing to a program.
• Simplicity: All the program guides, workout calendars and nutrition plans will be online—all in one place.

No more excuses. Now you will be able to work out anywhere there's an Internet connection: at home, the gym, outdoors—even while you're traveling.

NEW CLUB & SHAKEOLOGY® CHALLENGE PACK

With this Challenge Pack, you will have access to an assortment of our most popular fitness programs (everything in the Member Library); Here's what's included:

• A 90-day Premium membership to the Team Beachbody Club with Beachbody On Demand. (After 90 days, you will be charged the quarterly Club membership price).
• 30-day supply of Shakeology which will convert to Shakeology Home Direct (our monthly autoship program) after 30 days.

At $140 USD, this Challenge Pack is a phenomenal deal. You'll save $28 as opposed to buying these items separately.

The Club & Shakeology Challenge Pack is ideally suited for anyone who's new to Beachbody, undecided about which fitness program to try, or someone who would love the convenience of accessing Beachbody workouts—anytime, anywhere.

PURCHASED PROGRAMS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Later in March, we will be adding another big perk to Beachbody On Demand. When you are a Premium (paid) Team Beachbody Club member and purchase select DVD programs that are not in the Member Library, you'll be able to exclusively stream those programs as well. Just look for "Purchased Programs" in Beachbody On Demand.

The first set of programs that will be available for streaming later in March as part of the Purchased Program section are FOCUS T25®, 21 Day Fix® and 21 Day Fix EXTREME®. Over time, we will slowly broaden the library of available Purchased Programs to be streamed.

NEW AND NOTEWORTHY WORKOUTS

Another huge benefit of becoming a Premium Team Beachbody Club member? Exclusive access to try workouts from many of our newest programs along with some other noteworthy programs. Just look for "New and Noteworthy" in Beachbody On Demand.

This section will allow you to preview select single workouts of some of Beachbody's newest and best-selling programs. In other words, now for the first time, you will be able to get a sneak preview of the program and try it before you buy it.

Here are the programs you will have exclusive access to start with:

• 21 Day Fix – Total Body Cardio Fix
• 21 Day Fix EXTREME – PiYo Fix Extreme
• PiYo® – Sweat
• FOCUS T25 – Alpha Cardio
• INSANITY MAX:30™ – Sweat Intervals
• P90® – Sculpt A
• Body Beast® – Build: Chest/Tris

Weekend Splurging? It's OK right?

To give everyone an update...

I'm on Day 12 of my 21 Day Fix Challenge. I'm following the Countdown to Competition meal plan that is included in the program.

As I sit here frustrated that I've only lost 4 lbs in 2 weeks, I'm thinking to myself...4 lbs.. 2 weeks...that's pretty good. You've been working out EVERY day for about 2 years and that hasn't happened before.

Also, I'm thinking that I haven't been hungry AT ALL! It's actually been the opposite and I've been full all day. So is my nutrition more dialed in?

Yes!

ALSO...Have I gone out for my weekly Friday Margarita? Have I purchased my occasional bag of Cherry Sours? Did I end up endulging in Popcorn Friday today at work? Have I stolen a cookie from my son's Oreo bag?

NO!

And I should feel proud of myself for just that alone. Who cares about the scale...I didn't go into this to lose weight...I wanted to see my body change. Well, I guess my willpower is changing as well.

And that's HUGE!!!

This image was posted in our 21 day fix group today. And this is definitely what has been holding me back from making any further changes to my body.

I'm not really wanting to lose weight anymore. But I would like to see muscle definition or see those abs poke out. And the weekend has been my splurge time.

Well not this time. Not last weekend. And not next weekend. I've committed to the challenge. 21 days. I can do this. :)

And I'm not saying I will never have a margarita or candy or popcorn...haha...because that would be CRAZY talk. But what I'm saying is that my cravings have changed...it's really not that hard to say NO. My body is telling me...it's doesn't need that like it used to think it did.

And that makes me happy. :)

Where Does Motivation Come From?

I ran across this picture today in my news feed and it was a THUMBSTOPPER for me.

Why? Because so many people think that they are just too far gone to try something new. Would it really be worth it? Will it really work? Will I really lose weight? 

Most people will talk themselves out of starting before they can even begin. But in all reality, when you BREAK...that's where the motivation comes from.

When you take those before pictures. ..that everyone hates...that's where the motivation comes from. You have to break before you can SHINE! Join a group,  surround yourself with others that will lift you up,  help you get back on the wagon when you fall off...

Don't hold back. Don't talk yourself out of this time. It's your turn. It's your time to shine. Let's SHINE bright together.

Let's chat! Message me. :)

21 Day Fix Approved...Beef and Butternut Squash Stew

When my husband is traveling and kids are busy with late night practices...cooking dinner for just one person can be tough. So I have decided to make this full batch of stew and have it for multiple individual portions this week. Either for a snack or for dinner.  I had quite a bit of turkey last week, so I'm looking forward to the beef this week.  Again, I'm all about keeping this simple, quick, and tasting good!  That's what makes this journey easier to manage and become a lifestyle!  No quick fixes here!

I'm completely enjoying learning new things that are healthy for me to eat and ones that taste good too.

Hearty Beef and Butternut Squash Stew

Makes 6 servings, approximately 1 1/4 cups each
21 Day Fix = 1 green, 1 red, 1 spoon per serving

1 tsp. olive oil
1 1/2 lbs. raw lean beef stew meat, boneless, cut into 2 inch cubes
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
4 cloves garlic, crushed
2 medium tomatoes, chopped or 1 can diced tomatoes
1 cup low-sodium organic beef broth
1 bay leaf
1 tsp. sea salt
1 tsp. ground black pepper
2 cups cubed butternut squash
1/4 cup fresh flat leaf parsley

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef; cook; stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until beef is brown.
3 Add onion and bell peppers; cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until onion is translucent.
4. Add garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute
5. Add tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cook, covered, for 40 minutes.
6. Add squash; cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 12 minutes, or until sauce has thickened and beef is fork-tender.
7. Remove bay leaf; serve topped with parsley

OR

Put all ingredients into the crock pot EXCEPT squash - Cook on low for 6 hours.
Add squash and cook 1 additional hour.

This picture was taken BEFORE I added the squash! 

Butter Nut Squash...it's so good! Who knew?

As you all know, I've been on this 21 Day Fix journey for about a week.  Last week I learned that I may not need dressing on my salads and actually enjoyed them without it.

This week, as I was prepping my food today...I decided to try a Butternut Squash stew.  My online accountability group raved about this last week and so I thought I would add it to my meal plan for this week.  I will have a blog post with that recipe here soon! :)

I had plenty of extra squash, so I looked up a recipe to cook the extra and have a a veggie snack during the week.  Wow...I am so excited.  It's so good, healthy for me and easy to do.  So I thought I would share it with all of you.

Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe

Yield: 4 (1 cup) servings

You Will Need

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 3 pounds or 8 cups, cubed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Dash cayenne, optional

Directions

Prepare Squash: Heat oven to 425º F and line two large baking sheets with aluminum foil.

1. Toss squash cubes with olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt and the cayenne until well coated. Tumble coated squash onto baking sheets and spread into one layer. Try not to crowd them too much or else they will not brown. Remember...I had already used some in my stew...so you will probably need 2 sheets if you are using an entire squash. 

1. Roast Squash: Roast squash, turning once and rotating pans once, until edges are lightly browned and centers are tender; 40 to 45 minutes. (Since ovens can often run hotter than you have heated them to, check the squash every so often to make sure they are not roasting quicker than expected).

Just Say No!!

It's Friday...and what have I done every single Friday for probably a year??...Go eat Mexican, have a margarita and enjoy some chips and salsa...and maybe some queso too! 

I mean...I had eaten healthy all week...so why not splurge on Friday night?  It wasn't going to kill me right...could I really gain weight from one night?  The answer is no...but honestly...I was working out every single day.  I was trying to get these results that you always see, but they weren't happening for me.  

What I am finding out in just 5 short days of sticking to the 21 Day Fix plan...is that when you actually eat right...you don't crave the junk, you stay full, and I FEEL great!  

Trust me, when I committed to this plan...I wasn't worried about the food but THIS...THIS right here is what I was worried about.  3 weeks without my Margarita?  How could I survive? But honestly, it has been such an easy process for me, I've lost 4 lbs in the 5 days and I am seeing and feeling results. 

So yes, I am not going to give up what I want...and I want abs, for what I want right this second.  I can do this.  I have a support group that is helping me and I owe it to myself to get the results that I've been working hard for.  One silly margarita is not worth it to me.  

Thoughts?  Do you do the same thing?  Have you been stuck at the same weight for awhile?

Click here to join my next challenge group on March 2nd with the 21 Day Fix Extreme...it's been WAY easier than I thought it would be.  

Mind Blown...Creator of Shakeology explains to me why I NEED it!

I know that I love Shakeology.  I know that it tastes good.  I know that it helped me lose weight.  I know that it gives me energy and helps me sleep better.  I know that it's quick and easy for me to use for breakfast...But after getting off of a webinar with the creator of Shakeology himself...

I'm just that much more of a believer in Shakeology...and will probably drink it forever.  Hands down, I'm sold, it will be something that drink DAILY.

He was asked about new flavors and why they have more like some other brands do...His answer about everything being natural, no chemicals, and having anchor ingredients to give flavor to Shakeology stood out to me.  It's no wonder there isn't a Berries n'Cream Shake.  That would need to have artificial sweeteners in that to give it that flavor.  Shakeology WILL NOT do that.

Why is Shakeology more expensive than other brands?
They go out of their way to make sure that all ingredients that they say are "in the bag" are actually in the bag in the the proper state that we need them to be in.  There is no GMO's in Shakeology and they pay more for that to be the case.

I could go on and on...but I'm so glad that I have chosen to invest in my health and fuel my body at least 1 time per day with the nutrition it craves.  Call me crazy, call me biased...but I absolutely will drink Shakeology everyday.  My health is that important to me!

Dressing or No Dressing?

So as I sit here at my desk eating my salad with NO dressing...

I've been wondering if all this time I just thought I had to have dressing on salad. Obviously it adds flavor and goodness...but it also adds calories and fat of you get some of those yummy dressings.

But I'm on this plan for the 21 day fix and I'm only allowed dressing every 3rd day. Well yesterday I didn't even put dressing on my salad. I have actually been enjoying my spinach, cherry tomatoes, hard boiled egg, and pepper salad. With NO dressing!

So I'm learning that just because dressing is what you THINK you have to put on salad...I may think again from now on. I give it a Thumbs up.  I don't really feel it's necessary. Thoughts?

21 Day Fix Extreme Day 3 Review...NOT STARVING!

So most people think that when you eat healthy, all you get is salad.  All day...every day!

Well that is far from the truth with the 21 Day Fix Extreme.  I'm not going to lie to you and tell you that when I first opened up the package and looked at the size of the containers...I thought "what...these things are TINY".  I truly did think I would be starving!

But that is far from the truth.  I've actually had to force myself to eat everything.  And tonight...I'm STUFFED.  My dinner was so good and filling!  I've tried 2 new recipes using Ground Turkey and I will let you know...I'm a fan.  Turkey Chili and the Turkey Meatballs from the recipe guide that comes with the program will definitely be added into our dinner rotation when we aren't on the FIX.

My breakfast today: Shakeology blended with frozen fruit
Morning Snack: Carrots, Cauliflower and Hummus
Lunch: Salad with grilled chicken and mixed blueberries and raspberries.
Snack: 2 hard boiled eggs
Dinner: Turkey Meatballs, Sweet Potato, and Steamed Veggies.

Very filling and very tasty.  I can't wait to try the Lettuce Wraps and the Chicken Fajitas next week.

21 Day Fix Extreme Upper Fix Review

Wow! I've done a lot of workouts. But what do I normally choose? Cardio.  Recently I've been LOVE with PiYo. But joining this 21 day fix challenge has set me to to do some different workouts.

Tonight was Upper Fix Extreme. And although the moves are very basic and at a pace for ANYONE to do,  my arms felt like jelly when I was done. Who knew you could get such a great workout with a set of 5 and 10 lbs dumbells. :)

I'm excited to see what today's Pilates Fix Extreme is like. We use a resistance band. Stay tuned!

Favorite Recipe of the Week - Turkey Chili - 21 Day Fix Extreme APPROVED!

Okay...so I started my 21 Day Fix Extreme journey and the one thing that I was concerned about was...what was I going to eat??  This program is so focused on your nutrition.  Was I going to have to eat salad all day long??  Um...no, not even close.  What I found out is that I need to add protein into my diet.  So this recipe popped out at me in the nutrition guide.  I mean...who doesn't like chili?  I am happy to say that I've now had it twice and I approve and want to share.  This will be added into our rotation even if I'm not doing the challenge.  

How cool is that?  I'm getting healthier, learning new recipes, and finding new things to add into my everyday lifestyle to continue this journey day in and day out.  You'll have to try it out...let me know how you like it. 

Turkey Chili - 21 Day Fix Extreme approved!!

1 tsp. olive oil
1 1/2 lbs. raw 93% lean ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1 Tbsp. chili powder
1/2 tsp. sea salt or Himalayan salt
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (to taste, optional)

2 (15 oz.) cans black beans (or pinto beans), drained, rinsed
1 (15 oz.) can all-natural diced tomatoes, no sugar added
12 fresh cilantro sprigs, finely chopped (for garnish)

1. Heat oil in large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.  Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 8 minutes, or until turkey is no longer pink.
3. Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper; cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute.
4. Add beans and tomatoes (with liquid).  Bring to a boil.  Reduce heat to low, gently boil, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Serve warm, sprinkled with cilantro.

Makes 6 servings, 1 cup each