New Year Challenges

Happy New Years Eve

I don’t have any big plans tonight. Well let me rephrase that, I have plans to enjoy a romantic dinner in San Francisco with my boyfriend tonight. No big parties, or trips out of town, I’m keeping it simple, low key and under cover. 

I had a blast in DC for Christmas. The weather wasn’t too bad, and I always have a great time when my family is involved.

I flew to Phoenix Arizona early Friday morning. I’ve been flying a lot, so my body clock is all messed up. As soon as I arrived I went shopping for some clothes better suited for 70 degree weather. This weekend was filled with exploring Scottsdale Arizona, eating amazing food, and relaxing. 

We came back to The Bay Area yesterday and I was so tired I slept until 1pm. If anyone knows me I usually have a hard time sleeping past 9am. I was beat.

I’m finally getting back on track, and I just realized I’ll be flying to Wisconsin on Saturday. This should be a fast trip, but I’m not looking forward to the below zero temperate that I know is coming. I have to buy a thick winter coat to battle the midwest winter elements.

All that said, I’ve noticed a lot of weight loss challenges/ New Years resolutions posted on different blogs, Facebook and Instagram. Because I found so many different challenges I figure I would share my top 3 with you, instead of created a weightloss challenge of my own. 

I’m not really into the “I have to loose weight this year” New Years Resolution. I only believe in making small lifestyle changes to reach your goals. That way your changes will stick instead of gaining weight after a diet, you change your eating habits and the way you look at food long term. That doesn’t mean that these challenges don’t work, or that you shouldn’t partake in the fun. Sometimes you need a little jump start. I plan on using these challenges/programs throughout the year to help me stay on track when I get tired of my regular routines. 

Enjoy

Lets talk Fitness Resolutions

My friend Anna at www.greenglowlove.blogspot.com created this green smoothie challenge that looks tasty and healthy all at the same time

7 Day Green Smoothie Challenge Jan 1-7

http://www.greenglowlove.blogspot.com 

Rules:
1. Make 1 green smoothie a day for 7 days

2. Post picture of your Green smoothie with hashtag #greengrowlove

3. At the end of the week she will choose the follower with the best looking green smoothies and they will win a Kimberly Snyder’s “The Beauty  Detox Solution”

4. Enjoy yourself and good luck 

All green smoothies can be found on her blog www.greenglowlove.blogspot.com

She will be posting helpful tips and advice during the challenge, if you have any questions comment or message her on Facebook or Instagram @greenglowlove

Let food be they medicine, thy medicine shall be thy food
-Hippocrates 

I love this challenge. I love Green Glow love, I plan on participating, smoothies are nutritious and delicious. 

Reach your health and financial goals for 2014 

Meatless Mondays
www.powerbyplabtsdiet.com

Participating in Meatless Monday will knock two goals off you list. 

Rules
NO MEAT ON MONDAYS

Veggies are definitely more cost effective per pound then meat and, they’ll help shrink your waistline. Don’t you just love multitasking.

On Instagram tag #powerbyplants for them to feature your photo. Make the holidays easy with their Party Recipe ebook free. 
@powerbyplants

My boyfriend has been doing meatless Mondays for the last 6 months. He lost about 20 pounds and he actually looks forward to not consuming meat for an entire day. Since I’m already meatless this challenge isn’t really a challenge for me. But I still support it! 

Transformational Georgia’s
Weight loss Challenge
Starting January 11th

Instagram @transformatinalgeorgia 

Who wants to loose weight and in an awesome fitbit force? She got one for Christmas and she loves it. It records sleep patterns, calories burned, steps climbed, ect. 

It will be a 2 month challenge starting January 11th, the person that looses the most body fat% wins. 

To enter email Georgia at gtusg@gmail.com

She will also supply everyone with a food guide and weight loss support.

Georgia and I became friends through Instagram. She is a huge inspiration to me and many other people. Check her out on Instagram at @transformationalgeorgia

Those are my top 3 realistic and doable weight loss resolutions. There are millions out there, if you don’t see one you like research and find one that fits your wants and needs

Go for it!
2014 is your year!!

Happy New Years friends!
Talk to you next year!
Blessings 
Mary 

Sent from my iPhone

Happy 26th of December

Hi friends!

I know it’s late but I still want to say:

I had a joy filled Christmas. I got presents that I really enjoyed, and my family seemed to like everything I got them. After a fun morning/afternoon of opening presents we packed ourselves into 2 cars and went to our Annual Family Christmas Brunch at my Nana’s house. 

There is nothing like Christmas time with the family. I felt like a little kid, my oldest sister brought me a cute outfit, it was so even got to wear some new clothes on Christmas, just like when I was younger. 

Here are a few fun family picture.

That’s it today guys. I’m jumping on a on a plane heading for Arizona tomorrow morning. It seems like it never stops, and I love it.

Blessings Friends,

Mary

Mason Jar Holiday Presents

Hi friends, 

I’m back! I’ve been super busy making 120+ mason jars Christmas presents the last 5 days. It was a crazy journey, and it stressed me out, but it was worth every hour it took. Check out the pictures.

Gingerbread sugar scrub

Peppermint sugar scrub

Herbal Detox Tea

Hot chocolate mix

Cookies for Santa

(I also created a gluten free and vegan cookies for two family members with dietary restrictions.)

S’more Kits with freshly made graham crackers and marshmallows

The presents were a hit. Everyone was surprised and impressed with the effortI put into everything. 

Keeping in my holiday traveling tradition, I flew out of San Francisco this morning at 8am, now I’m heading to The Washington DC area. The lines weren’t too bad, and I got priority seating which always makes any trip better. Gotta love 1st class baby.

I hope everyone has a Very Merry Christmas. I’ll be in touch.

Blessings

Mary

How to Make Sugar Scrubs and Detox Tea

Hi friends

So sorry I’ve been MIA, I got super sick. Last weekend we went to Tampa Florida, as much as I enjoyed the weather, it was strange to see Christmas lights on palm trees, it almost felt like LA. On the flight home my ears wouldn’t pop, and on Monday morning I woke up in excruciating pain. I took it easy and felt pretty good by the end of the day. 

Tuesday I hit the ground running, I set off at 8am to hit the gym and go to more then a few different stores to get all the ingredients for my DIY Christmas gift. After a quick cardio session, I showered and headed to my first stop, by stop number two my ears were throbbing, but I kept moving forward. By stop number 3 I felt a migraine coming on and I popped 2 extra strength Tylenol. By stop number 4 my headache was only getting worst, it was so bad I wasn’t sure if I could make the drive home, let alone to the next 5 stops I needed to make, so I pulled over at a drug store and purchase a bottle of excedrine migraine, excedrine usually always does the trick for me. Within 5 miles from that drug store I felt shaky, weak, sick, and just not myself. I wasn’t sure if I could make the drive home, so I pulled over in a residential neighborhood and laid down for 20 minutes or so until I felt comfortable enough to drive home. It was the longest drive of my life.

As soon as I got home my boyfriend made me give him the blow by blow of what happened. He told me I didn’t eat enough food, and I also took too much medicine. I’m pretty sure he was correct. He made me get in bed, made sure I drank plenty of water, and put me in bed. I woke up about an hour later feeling 70% better. After a shower I felt about 75% better, but I knew I had to finish my errands if I was going to stay on track to complete my shopping trip.

I made it to the last 3 stores, I felt weak, and still a little shaky, but I knocked everything out.

All that said, today I’m taking it super easy. I plan on finishing up a few scarfs, and completing mason jar cookies for Santa, hot chocolate, and my homemade s’more kit.

I feel 90% better. Last night I knocked out gingerbread scrub, peppermint scrub, and detox tea. Check out my progress

Lets talk Sugar Scrubs

I use sugar scrubs 2 sometimes 3 times a week. Since I’m getting older I’m very attentive to my skin. Exfoliation is the key to soft stubble skin. Yes please

Gently apply a scoop full of scrub to wet skin Ina circular motion, concentrating on dry patches and rough areas. Rinse with warm water

Gingerbread Scrub 

15 cups sugar

15 cups brown sugar

7-10 cups melted coconut oil 

3 tablespoons vanilla

3 tablespoons cinnamon

3 tablespoons all spice

3 tablespoons ginger

3 tablespoon nutmeg 

in a medium bowl combine all ingredients except oils

gradually add melted coconut oil until scrub reaches desired consistency 

you may use more or less of stated amount

scoop gingerbread scrub into mason jar

Peppermint Scrub

15 cups of sugar

5-7 cups of melted coconut oil

4-7 drops of red food coloring

10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil

pour sugar into mixing bowl

add coconut oil until 
desired consistency is reached; stir

place a few drops of peppermint 
essential oil into the mixture

divide your sugar scrub mix into 
2 equal parts 

add food coloring into one of the portions (be careful not to add too much)

in mason jar, alternate pink and white layers of sugars to create a candy cane effect. Press sugar down with a spoon to compact between layers

Lets talk Detox Tea

This tea was fun to make, and its actually tasty, with a little honey. 

2 tablespoon of each herb

Dandelion Root

Used for loss of appetite, upset stomach, intestinal gas, gallstones, joint pain, muscle aches, eczema, bruises, increase urine production, laxative, skin toner, blood tonic, and digestive tonic. 

Likely safe for most people when used in amounts commonly found in food. 

Use caution if pregnant and or breast feeding 

Burdock Root

Used to increase urine flow, kill germs, reduce fever, purify blood, treats colds, cancer, anorexia, nervosa, gastrointestinal complaints, joint pain, gout, bladder infections, complications of syphilis, acne, psoriasis, high blood pressure, hardening of arteries, liver disease and increased sex drive. 

Safely used as a food in Asia. 

Use caution if pregnant and or breast feeding 

Orange Peel

Used to increase appetite, reduce phlegm, treats colds, coughs, intestinal gas, acid indigestion, and cancerous breast sores. Also used in treating kidney stones, high cholesterol, and preventing high blood pressure, prostate cancer, and stroke.

Safe for most adults

Use caution if pregnant and or breast feeding 

Hibiscus Flower

Used to treat loss of appetite, colds, heart, and nerve diseases, upper respiratory tract pain and swelling, fluid retention, stomach irritation, and disorders of circulation; for dissolving phlegm, as a gentle laxative, and as a diuretic to increase urine output

Safe for most people, possible side effects are not known 

Unsafe to take during pregnancy and breast feeding 

Rose Hips

Used to prevent or treat colds, flu, and vitamin C deficiencies, stomach disorders, diarrhea, constipation, gallstones, gallbladder, ailments, lower urinary tract and kidney disorders, fluid retention, gout, back and leg pain, diabetes, high cholesterol, weight loss, high blood pressure, chest ailments, fever, increasing immune function during exhaustion, increase blood flow to the limbs, increasing urine flow and quenching thirst 

Milk Thistle Seed

Used for liver disorders, loss of appetite, heartburn, gallbladder complaints, diabetes, hangover, diseases of the spleen, prostate cancer, malaria, depression, uterine complaints, increasing breast milk flow, allergy symptoms, and starting menstrual flow

Milk thistle is likely safe for most adults, sometimes causes a laxative effect, less common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, indigestion, intestinal gas, bloating, fullness or pain, and loss of appetite. Avoid use if pregnant and or breast feeding 

Cinnamon Stick

For taste 

I was all alone by the time I finished ths detox tea but I was so proud of myself that I took a few selfies

Well that’s all folks,

Today I’m tackling:

Mason jar cookies for Santa

Hot chocolate mix 

S’more kits

Wish me luck friends. This is going to be FUN! 

References:

Sugar scrub recipes found at

www.mommymusings.com/gingerbread-sugar-scrub/

Herb facts found at

www.webmd.com

Sent from my iPad

Detox Time

Hi friends

I’m still feel a little under the weather but I’m a woman, and I can’t let that slow me down.

I’ve narrowed the list down to these gifts

I have to make around 30-35 of each thing, I’m so excited, but I’m also terrified. What if I make people sick? Or what if my presents look cheap and unappealing? What if I mess everything up and it was all a big expensive bust?

Oh well, there is no turning back now. I’m sticking to my guns and I’m going to do my best, which somehow always seems to be enough to get the job done.

Next weeks postings will be full of step by step instructions of how you can also get in on the fun and create this fun cheap gifts.

I’ll share all my tips with you. Pray for me friends, it might be a bumpy ride.

Lets talk

Herbal Detoxes

A old high school friend contacted me a month or two ago asking are an herbal detox recipe. I totally spaced out and never got it to him. He nicely reminded me at the beginning of this week and I promise I would have it to him by Friday.

I figure I would go a step further and feature DIY herbal Detoxs on my blog. I figure its right up my alley.

Benefits of Detoxing

Since we are exposed to more chemicals, poisons, heavy metals, and pesticides now that any other generation before us, and its not going to stop anytime soon.

Eating processed foods that are filled with GMOs like corn and soy that are also sprayed heavily with glyphosate poison. We also load up on over the counter medications and antibiotics that rob our healthy and our gut, and we use chemical-laden health and beauty products that have all manner of sulfates, parabens, and other toxic chemicals in them.

That’s just a small list of all the toxins we face on a regular bases.

The human body was not meant to handle all these poisons.

Herbal detox tea

This detox tea will give you a boost, it is strong and effective, it is also gentle enough to use regularly.

Herbs are the best! They impart many many wonderful qualities to our lives and bodies. It’s like natures medicine cabinet that we need to take advantage of more often.

This particular blend is supposed to be tasty, it boosts your Vitamin C, supports you liver function and its simple

Simply blend equal parts

 

Dandelion root

Burdock root

Orange peel

Hibiscus flowers

Rose hips

Milk Thistle seed

cinnamon stick

You can find all of these wonderful ingredients are your local health food store. They usually sales these herbs in bulk.

She used 2 tablespoons of each herb, and it fit nicely in a pint jar.

One teaspoon will make a nice cup of teas. You can make an infusion as well, which is just as tasty. Make 2 big quart jar of tea at night, cover it, then let it sit all night. In the morning pour it over ice and add a few drips of your favorite sweetener (if you must) that way you can enjoy your tea throughout the day.

This detox is said to have effects on your face ad body acne within a could of days. The body starts releasing all manner if toxins and poisons.

**i have not tried this detox but I plan on trying it next week. I’ll let you know how it goes.

Found at http://www.nourishesforfree.com

Herbal detox green tea bath

Put about 5 green tea bags in while running bath, you can also add flowers and a little milk to soften your skin.

The herbs can be absorbed through your skin and you can still get many of the benefits if a digestible detox.

You can get the benefits of green tea detox without drinking it.

http://www.makeovermcki.blogspot.com

Detox tea

A perfect start to the new year

Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, it also helps digestion. The lemon is so an anti-inflammatory and us a good source of vitamin C, which is ideal for a boost in winter. This is an excellent herbal tea sweetened with honey, anti-bacteria and oh so tasty.

*try to drink this tea without food

Recipe

2 tablespoon fresh ginger ( or fresh ginger thinly sliced)

1 freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tablespoon honey

1/4 cup hot water

Heat water. Add it all ingredients and mix

Found at http://www.mylittlefabric.com

Liver Tonic

2 handful of Dandelion Greens

3 Carrots

1 cucumber

1/2 lemon peeled

Facebook.com/greenjuiceaday

Ginger cucumber detox juice

2 cucumbers

2 inch knob of ginger

1/2 lime

1 cup parsley

Dash of cayenne pepper

*if you like sweeter juice add some watermelon, cantaloupe, or honey few

Peel cucumbers, remove skin from lime, and turn in juicer. Juice parsley, ginger, lime, and cucumbers. Pour over ice and add a dash of cayenne pepper or more to your liking.

Detox duration and aftermath

Detoxs can be done many ways. 24 hours, 3 days, some even last 5-10-14 days.

Whatever you decided to two make sure not to push your limits.

I plan on only drinking the detox juice and restriction my diet to only fresh raw or lightly cooked plant-based meals, such as soups, steamed vegetables, salads, and smoothes for at least the next 3 days during and after the detox. Avoid meat and anything else that is difficult to process.

Your digestive system is very delicate while detoxing so take the next couple of days to let it get used to eating food.

Remember your body is now clean, so treat it well, and feed it healthy choices. This is not the time to celebrate with pizza, fried foods, desserts and other acid forming foods, it will only cause harm to your system and impede your progress to a healthy body.

Try not to revert back to your olds ways. This is about making changes and setting you up for success

**consume all recipes at your own risk

http://www.theholykale.com

That’s all today folks

Blessings

Mary

 

Posted with Blogsy

Make your own Graham Crackers and Marshmallows

Hi friends

I’ve been slightly under the weather, sorry I missed posting yesterday, but my life is pretty crazy around this time of the year.

 

Lets talk homemade Graham Crackers and Marshmallows

Yesterday I surprised my Mother. She is off of work because of a bad fall, so I drove down to Vacaville unannounced, used my key, and walked right in. She was so happy she almost cried. I enjoy surprising people, it’s kind of my thing. I like bringing happiness to others, especially people I love.


I lugged all of the ingredients for my graham crackers and marshmallows to her house, and we made them together. Well, we sort of made them together, she iced her knees and found a great Christmas movie for us to watch, while I cooked. 

It was a great great day. Sort of an cooking adventure.
 
Enjoy the recipes and pictures

Graham Crackers

I had a hard time finding graham flour. I finally found it at a specialty store in Vacaville. I didn’t realize it is a healthy wheat based flour, which is much better then other flours.

1-1/2 cups graham flour
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch pieces and chilled
5 tablespoons water
5 tablespoons molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract  
Parchment paper

Adjust oven rack to upper-middle and lower-middle positions and heat oven to 375 degrees

Process graham flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon in food processor until combined

I used a mixer and it worked just fine

Add butter and process until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal

Add water, molasses and vanilla and process until dough comes together

Divide dough into quarters, working with 1 piece of dough at a time (keeping remaining pieces covered with plastic wrap) roll out dough between 2 pieces of parchment paper into 11 by 8-inch rectangle, 1/8 inch thick

none of my dough came out in a perfect rectangle so don’t worry about being perfect

Remove top piece of parchment and trim dough into neat 10 by 7-1/2 inch rectangle with knife or pastry cutter and then cut rectangle of dough into twelve 2-1/2 inch squares. Prick each square several times with fork  

Slide 2 pieces of rolled and cut dough, still on parchment, onto separate baking sheets. Bake crackers until golden brown and edges are firm, about 15 minutes, switching and rotating sheets halfway through baking

Slide baked crackers, still on parchment, onto wire rack and let cool completely 

Repeat with remaining 2 pieces of rolled and cut dough

Transfer cooled cracker, still on parchment, to cutting board and carefully break into individual crackers along scored lines. 

Graham crackers can be stored at room temperature in airtight container for up to 2 weeks

Makes 48 crackers

Make today, enjoy immediately

 

 Marshmallows

2/3-cup confectioners sugar (powdered sugar)

1/3 cup cornstarch

1 cup cold water

2-1/2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin

2/3 cup light corn syrup

2 cups granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

vegetable spray

food thermometer

foil

Make foil sling for 13 by 9 inch baking pan by folding 2 long sheets of aluminum foil. Lay sheets of foil in pan perpendicular to each other, with extra foil hanging over edges of pan. Push foil into corners and up sides of pan, smoothing foil flush to pan. Spray with vegetable oil spray

Whisk confectioners sugar and cornstarch in small bowl; set aside

Pour 1/2 cup cold water into bowl of stand mixer, fitted with whisk. Sprinkle gelatin over water. Let stand until gelatin becomes very firm, about 15 minutes

Combine corn syrup and remaining 1/2 cup of cold water in medium saucepan

Pour granulated sugar and salt into center of saucepan (do not let sugar hit pan sides) bring to boil over medium-high heat, and cook gently swirling saucepan until sugar has dissolved completely and mixture registers 240 degrees, 6 to 8 minutes

Turn mixer speed to low and carefully pour hot syrup into gelatin mixture, avoiding whisk and bowl

Gradually increase speed to high and while until mixture is very thick and stiff, 10-12 minutes, scraping down bowl as needed. Add vanilla and mix until incorporated about 15 seconds

Working very very very quickly

scrap mixture evenly into prepared pan using greased rubber spatula, smoothing top. Sift 2 tablespoons confectioners sugar and cornstarch mixture over pan

Cover and let sit overnight at room temperature until firm

Lightly dust cutting board with 2 tablespoons confectioners sugar mixture and lightly coat chefs knife with oil spray. 

Turn marshmallow slab out onto cutting board and peel off foil. Sift 2 tablespoons confectioners sugar mixer over slab

Cut into 1-inch-wide strips and then cut crosswise into 1-inch squares. 

Working with 3 or 4 marshmallows at a time, toss marshmallows in bowl with remaining confectioners sugar mixture, then toss in strainer to remove excess powder

Marshmallows can be stored at room temp in airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

This is only one strip of marshmallows its going to take me a while to cut up all these marshmallows. I’ll have more pictures for you all tomorrow

 Makes about 90 marshmallows

Make today enjoy tomorrow

My boyfriend went nuts for these. We usually avoid sweets, but he just couldn’t stop eating them. Now I need to find a way to feature my homemade graham crackers, I need to make sure

Marshmallows

These were fun to make and fun to eat. You have to move super fast because it firms up on you pretty fast.
I found all these recipes in this magazine:

It’s pretty informative with recipes on how to make your own jelly, ketchup, ricotta cheese, ritz butter crackers and much much more. 

This will become a staple in my kitchen. 

http://www.americastestkitchen.com/
 

They have a cooking show in Saturday mornings I used to watch every now and again, but there is nothing like tackling the unimaginable.

I heart Americas Test Kitchen

Let’s talk workout update

So far my new workout routine is going great. I can already see and feel some results. My entire body feels a lot stronger and a lot leaner, which is the goal. There is no such thing as spot training. I try to concentrate on my core, but to get the results I desire full body workouts are the only thing that’s going to work.
I’ve switched from only riding the spin bike to adding the elliptical and stair-master into the mix. My body is enjoy the change and the challenge.  

I hoping to post some HOT full body pics soooooon.

That’s all today.
Blessing friends
Mary

Muir Woods & My New Exercise Routine

Hi Friends!!

I hope you had a great weekend. I know I did.

Lets Talk Hiking Muir Woods

When you live in San Francisco you have a million and one adventures at your fingertips. I’ve always wanted to go hiking at Muir Woods and this weekend I finally crossed it off of my bucket list. 

Just in case you don’t know what Muir woods is I’ll give you some background. 

Redwood-like trees covered much of the Northern Hemisphere 150 million years ago. As the climate changed, the range of the redwood shrank. Now there are two species of redwood in California, with very limited ranges. The coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) grows on a thing and discontinuous 500-mile strip of Pacific Coast from southern Oregon to Big Sur. 

Most ancient coast redwoods have been cut but some are protected in Redwood National and State Parks, in many California and Oregon state parks and here in Muir Woods National Monument. This canyon of redwoods were never logged. Its forest of mixed-age and dead trees supports a biologically rich community of plants and animals.

The tallest trees in Muir woods are over 252 feet and the widest over 14 feet. Some redwoods are at least 1,000 years old. Most mature trees are 500 to 800 years old. 

That’s the history of Muir Woods taken right out of their free brochure. I was amazed at the sheer size of the trees. Not only are they the trees big, the air is fresh, and the hikes are slightly challenging.

Check out my pics. 
Please excuse my leggings, I had on 3 layers that day, it was soooo cold in Muir Woods. 

Even if your not a seasoned hiker, or avid exerciser, you can still complete the easy hikes. Just take it slow, but push yourself. The hills were slightly steep, but nothing that a beginner couldn’t handle. 

Lets Talk New Workout Plan

Its been cold in the Bay Area, a lot colder then I’m used to. I’m talking 30-40 degrees. I was just in Ohio a few weeks ago battling snow and 10-20 degree weather but I wasn’t prepared to deal with it at home.

I wanted to get out on the walking trail a lot more these last few weeks, but exercising in the cold just isn’t my forte.

I know new years is coming up soon, and I’m also planning on attending the Super Bowl this year, so I can’t really gain any “holiday weight”. Since I’m not attending any holiday parties, I thought this would be a simple task. 

Staying on my clean diet, working out 5 days a week, drinking plenty of water, and eating my daily required amount of fruits and vegetables should do the trick. But for some reason my body is craving more. I need a challenge. Not just any old challenge I need to try something new. 

I am a firm believer that you will never move forward if you don’t make yourself uncomfortable. I’m pretty comfortable with everything I just describe, my everyday workouts, healthy eating, blah blah blah blah blah…

Its time to take it up a notch. Check out my new workout routine and tell me what you think

I make a meager living as a personal trainer, but most times I don’t enjoy writing my own workout routines. I would rather someone else write them for me. I wish I could afford my own trainer, but that’s not in my budget right now. 

I purchased The Women’s Health Big Book of Abs

I like this book because it gives you over 500 different full body exercise, that target your abdominal without one silly crunch. No crunches in this book. I like that. I feel like I’ve done enough crunches for the entire city of San Francisco these last few years. I’m looking for new exercises to challenge my entire body, not just my core.

Last week was my first week and boy did it kick my booty. I’ve been walking around like a zombie for the last 7 days. Everything on my body hurts from my abdominals, to my calfs, and everything in between. 

If you know me, then you know I’m loving this new challenge. These new exercises are hard, but doable, and pain/soreness = results

I love results

I live for results 

*the workouts in the book is not for beginners. I’m somewhat an advanced exercise enthusiast and it challenged every technique I have developed

Monday: 

Quick 3-5 warm up

Abs Workout A

20 inch warms with push-ups 

and deep squat at end

20 reverse lunges with a reach

Abs Workout A

Alternating Dumbbell Chest Press on Swiss Ball

12 reps each side, 3 Sets

Swiss Ball Jackknife

10 reps, 3 sets

Unsupported One-Arm Dumbbell Row

15 reps each arm, 3 set

Complete 1 set of each exercise

once you’ve complete all 3 exercises rest for 2 minutes and repeat this process two more times for a total of 3 sets 

Rest for 2 minutes and go on to the next exercise group

Squat Thrust

10-15 reps, 3 sets

Single-Leg Dumbbell Deadlift

12 reps on each leg, 3 sets

Jumping Lunges

20 reps, 3 sets

Complete 1 set of each exercise

once you’ve complete all 3 exercises rest for 2 minutes and repeat this process two more times for a total of 3 sets 

Rest for 2 minutes and go on to the next exercise group

Dumbbell pullover on swiss ball

10-12 reps, 3 sets

Dumbbell Overhead Triceps Extensions

6-10 reps, 3 sets

Single-Leg Squat

10 reps on each leg, 3 sets

Complete 1 set of each exercise

once you’ve complete all 3 exercises rest for 2 minutes and repeat this process two more times for a total of 3 sets 

Rest for 2 minutes and go on to the next exercise group

Thrusters

10-12 reps, 3 sets

Swiss Ball Plank with Feet on Bench

Hold for 60 seconds, 3 sets

Bodyweight Squats

10-12 reps, 3 sets

DONE!

Tuesday:

45-60 minutes of cardio

Wednesday:

 Quick 3-5 minute warm up

60 seconds jumping jacks

60 seconds Blurpees

60 seconds jumping jacks

60 seconds Blurpees

Abs Workout B

Off Set Dumbbell Lunge

20 reps each side, 2 Sets

Mountain Climbers

12 reps each side, 2 Sets

Swiss Ball Rollout

10-15 reps, 2 Sets

Swiss Ball Jackknife

8-10 reps, 2 Sets

Underhand Grip Rear Lateral Raise

10 Reps, 2 Sets 

Complete 1 set of each exercise

once you’ve complete all 5 exercises rest for 2 minutes and repeat this process one more time for a total of 2 sets 

Rest for 2 minutes and go on to the next exercise group

Negative Chinup

(Since I don’t have a chin-up or pull up bar in my home I did 20 pushups instead)

10 reps, 4 sets

Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift

15 reps, 4 sets

Jump Squat

As many as possible in 30 seconds, 4 sets

Rolling Side Plank

As many as possible in 45 seconds, 4 sets

Complete 1 set of each exercise

once you’ve complete all 4 exercises rest for 2 minutes and repeat this process one more time for a total of 4 sets 

Rest for 2 minutes and go on to the next exercise group

Dumbbell Chest Press on Swiss Ball

10-12 reps, 3 sets

Step-up and Single-Arm Press

15 reps each side, 3 sets

Single Arm Reverse Lunge and Press

8 reps each side, 3 sets

Complete 1 set of each exercise

once you’ve complete all 3 exercises rest for 2 minutes and repeat this process one more time for a total of 3 sets 

Rest for 2 minutes and go on to the next exercise group

Dumbbell Lunge to Curl to Press

6 lunges each leg 

12 total curls and presses

4 sets

Thursday:

45-60 minutes of Cardio

Friday:

ABs workout A

Saturday:

45-60 minutes of Cario

Sunday:

REST!

*I used 8 pound dumbbells

WARNING!!!

These exercise are advance. If you want to do this routine please contact me for correct alignment and set-up to ensure you will not injure yourself. All exercises are preformed at your own risk

That was the first week of my new routine. It really kicked my butt and left me wanting more. 

This week my workout looks pretty much the same, instead of 2 days of Ab workout A, I’ll be completing 2 days of workout B and one day of workout A

I love being your test dummy so stick with me and I’ll let you know if this works or not. I have a feeling it’s working already. 

That’s all today folks

have an awesome Monday

Blessings

Mary

 

 

 

Healthy Holiday Treats

Hi friends!!

Today was a cold but great day. It’s a little colder in Northern California then usual, but after my freezing Thanksgiving in Ohio I’m really can’t complain.

Let’s talk

Low Fat- Low Calorie Holiday Desserts

As promised here are more then a few tasty holiday treat recipes. I plan on trying all of them

Mini Apple Pies

The perfect way to enjoy a healthier serving of Apple Pie! These low calorie mini pies are a great snack or dessert that will have you enjoying the taste you crave with zero guilt.

Ingredients

4 sheets whole wheat filo dough

4 large Granny Smith Apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced

1/3 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup whole wheat flour

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp cinnamon

2 tbsp light butter

Fresh squeezed juice from 1 small orange

Fat free Reddi-wip

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Spray a 12 cup muffin pan with butter flavored non-fat cooking spray

Lay out 4 sheets of FILO dough in one, neatly stacked pile, and cut into 12 circles. (You can use a large circle shaped cookie cutter)

Gently press each circle of filo dough into the muffin pan, creating a bowl for the apple filling

In a medium sized bowl, combine apples, orange juice, sugar, flour, vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg

Using a spoon, fill up each ‘pie shell’ with the apple filling, until all the filling is gone.

Don’t be afraid to heap it high… The apples will bake down a lot

Top each mini pie with 1/2 tsp of light butter

Place in the oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes

Take out of oven and let cool in pan for about 10-15 minutes

Gently take on of the mini pies out of the pan and inspect.

If filo shell still seems very soggy on the bottom, place it back into the oven for another 10 minutes, and then let it cool in the muffin pan for another 10-15 minutes

Top each mini apple pie with a dollop of fat free Reddi-wip before serving

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 45 minutes

Per serving: 86 calories, 1g fat, 17g carbohydrates; 1g protein; 2.5g fiber

Low Fat Pumpkin Roll

Ingredients

Cake:

3 large egg

1 cup equal or your favorite artificial sweetener

1 cup canned pumpkin

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 cup self-rising flour

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Filling

4 ounces reduce-far cream cheese, softened

1-1/2 to 2 cups light whipped topping, thawed, if frozen

2 tablespoons Equal (to taste)

Bear eggs and 1 cup equal for 5 minutes in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer

Stir in pumpkin and lemon juice

Blend in flour, cinnamon and nutmeg until well combined

Line a jelly roll pan with waxed paper

Spread batter evenly in pan

Bake in preheated 350 oven 5 to 8 minutes or until wooden pick comes out clean

Cool 3 minutes in pan; turn out onto a cloth and roll up from the narrow end

Chill in refrigerator until completely cool

For filling:

Beat cream cheese, whipped topping and 2 tablespoons equal in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and spreadable

Unroll pumpkin roll and spread with filling. Re-roll

Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve

Serving size 1/8 of pumpkin roll

Calories 159, Protein 6g, Carbs 19g, Fat 6g, Chol 87mg, Sod 341mg,

Low Calorie Sugar Cookies

Baking during the holiday season is one of my favorite activities this time of year. Sugar cookies in particular are one treat I look forward to all year long, but most are loaded with calories and fat. Each cookies has only 65 calories!! That’s a reason to celebrate!!

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

2 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup sugar

3 tbsp butter softened

1/4 cup almond milk

1 egg

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

Combined all ingredient in a large bowl, mix well until batter is blended evenly

Roll batter into 1- inch balls and place on a greased baking sheet

Bake cookies for approximately 15-18 minutes

Remove cookies from baking sheet and allow to cool on wire rack

Makes 18 cookies

Candy Bar Cupcakes

Makes 12 cupcakes

Cupcake base

1 cup spelt or all-purpose (130g)(arrowhead Mills Gf also works)

6 tbsp cocoa powder (30g)(not Dutch)

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup xylitol or sugar of choice (180g)

1/2 cup mayo-style spread, like Vegenaise

1 tbsp pure vanilla extact

2/3 cup plus 2 tbsp water (185g)

Preheat oven to 350 F and place 12 cupcake liners inside a cupcake pan

In a large bowl, combine first five ingredients. Sift very well

In separate bowl, combine the remaining three ingredients and whisk u the mayo is completely smooth

Pour wet into dry and stir until just combined

Immediately divide the batter among the cupcake liners- it won’t seem like a lot of filling, but these cupcakes rise a lot

Bake 21 minutes, then let sit 15 minutes before removing from the pan

These taste 10 times more chocolatey and rich the next dat so bake the cupcakes the day before eating them is possible

Store in the refrigerator

Date Caramel:

120g pitted dates (jam-packed 2/3 cup or about 17 small dates)

1/3 cup water

1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Level 1/4 plus 1/16 tsp salt

1/2 cup milk of choice

Optional for richer sauce: 2 tsp vegetable or melted coconut oil

Blend dates in food processor until they’re completely broken up

Add all other ingredients and blend thoroughly until the sauce is completely smooth

Blend the dates first or it will splatter

Poke a hole in each cupcake and stuff with 2-3 tsp filling

Peanut Butter Frosting

1/2 cup peanut butter or allergy-friendly alternative

1/4 cup powdered sugar or sugar free powdered sugar

1/4 cup milk of choice (add 1-2 extra tbsp if using natural peanut butter)

Beat all ingredients together until completely smooth, use hand beaters if you have them

(If you must you can stir everything together with a for using Maximus effort and patience. A magic bullet will also work)

Map read about 1 tbsp of frosting on each cupcake

Top cupcakes with chopped peanuts is desired

1 serving – 1 cupcake

137 calories per serving, calories from fat 57, total fat 6.4g, saturated fat 1.1g, trans fat 0, cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 254mg, carbs 18.9g, dietary fiber 2.9g, sugars 4.8g, protein 3.4g

Buckeyes

Serving size 1 cookie

1-16ounce jar low-fat, low sodium smooth peanut butter (about 1-3/4 cups)

4 tablespoons I salted butter, softened

6 cups confectioners’ sugar

1-1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

4-1/2 teaspoons shortening

Toothpicks and waxed paper

Place peanut butter and butter in the large bowl if a mixer

Beat on medium speed until very smooth, scraping sides of bowl as needed

Gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar until smooth

Roll mixture into 1- inch balls

Arrange balls on waxed paper-lined trays or baking sheets

Cover and chill for 3 hours or overnight

In a small, heavy saucepan, melt chocolate chips and shortening over medium-low heat, stirring frequently

Keep warm over very low heat

Remove about 1/4 of the peanut butter balls from refrigerator, use toothpick to hold balls and lower into chocolate, leaving the top exposed so that it looks like a buckeye.

Allow all excess chocolate to drip off

Place ball, on waxed paper-lined tray or baking sheet

Repeat with remaining peanut butter balls until all are dipped

Chill for 30 minutes or until firm. Store in the refrigerator

Makes 90 cookies

Chocolate Chip Christmas Balls

8 tablespoon butter, softened

1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 egg

2-1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup whole-wheat flour

1-12 ounce package miniature semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup confectioners’ sugar

2/3 teaspoon fat free milk

Small silver balls (optional)

Heat oven to 350 degrees F

In medium bowl, beat butter and cream cheese with an electric mixer for 30 seconds

Add granulated sugar and salt

Beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally

Beat in egg and 2 teaspoons vanilla until combined

Beat in as much of the all-purpose flour and white whole-wheat flour as you can with the mixer

Stir in the chocolate chips

Shape dough into 1-1/2-inch balls

Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet

Bake for about 15 minutes, or until

Bottoms are golden.

Transfer to wire rack

Dust with confectioners’ sugar and small silver balls

124 calories, 1g protein, 17g carb, 6g fat, 3g saturated fat, 1g fiber

I hope you all enjoy these recipes. They look super tasty, healthy, and easy to make.

I think I’m going to add a healthy cookie tin to my homemade Christmas presents.

 

Have a great weekend friends

Blessings

Mary

 

Posted with Blogsy

Homemade Chicken Mole & DIY Chirstmas Gifts

Hello Friends!!!

Last night was pretty amazing. I made one of the best meals of my life. My boyfriend is still ranting and raving about it. I can’t wait to share it with all of you.

Lets talk Healthy Cooking 

Easy and Delicious Chicken Mole

1/2 cup Brazil Nuts

1 garlic clove coarsely chopped

1 (14-1/2oz)can diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 small red onion coarsely chopped

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon coriander

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

8(5-ounce) skinless chicken thighs trimmed

1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth or water

1 ounce semisweet chocolate, finely chopped

1/2 cup lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves

Combine nuts and garlic in food processor and process until nuts are finely ground. 

I don’t have a food processor, my blender did the trick

Add tomatoes, onions, chili powder, coriander, salt and pepper

Pulse until smooth

Spray medium Dutch oven with nonstick spray and set over medium heat. Add chicken season with a little salt and pepper and cook, turning frequently until golden brown; about 10 minutes

 Transfer chicken to plate

Add tomato mixture and broth to pan, make sure to stir in the burned browned bits in the bottom of the pan, they add flavor. Stir for 5 minutes then add chocolate and cook, string frequently until melted, about 4 minutes. 

 Return chicken to pot, simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and shredding, about 30 minutes.  When done add cilantro leaves

 

I added:

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 extra teaspoon chili powder

1 extra teaspoon coriander

1 teaspoon red chili flakes

for extra flavor, it needed a kick 

Enjoy this mole with warm corn or whole wheat tortillas, light cheese, and shredded cabbage.

Per serving:

1 chicken thigh and generous 1/4 cup of sauce: 230 calories, 13g total fat, 4g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 72mg Chol, 245 mg Sodium,7g Carbs, 4g Sugar, 1g Fiber, 21g Protein, 32mg Calcium

Since I love to cook and I’m always up for a challenge I figure this mole would be fun to make. Little did I know I was about to make the best meal of my life. 

I couldn’t stop eating the mole sauce. I can not believe its low fat. There are layers of flavors with the chocolate, garlic, coriander, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. 

I plan on serving this dish at more than a few dinner parties. 

I hope you enjoy it!!! I know we did!!

This morning I woke up craving a tortilla. So I made this low fat breakfast treat

1 corn tortilla

1 egg

a non stick pan

cooking spray

Salt, pepper, and your favorite hot sauce

I love sriracha

Its pretty self-explanatory 

and 

it was soooo good 

as well as low fat and low calorie.

 

Lets Talk DIY Christmas Gifts

Now that we got that out of the way. I want to go over some crafty holiday gift ideas. I’m defiantly making s’more kits for most of my friends and family. I’m also planing on knitting about 5 scarfs, it’s time consuming but it’s worth it. What do you think about these fun gift crafts ideas?

Flavored Alcohol in Cute Custom Mason Jars

Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix with fresh marshmallows and a mini bottle of Kahlua

 

Easy pre-made cookies in a Jar

All you need to do is add wet ingredient and bake

 Homemade Gingerbread Sugar Body Scrub

I’m definitely do this one, 

if only for myself

 Pre-made Oatmeal Jars, 

just add water and enjoy

I think I’m going to make all these DIY gift ideas, so no friends will get the same thing. Time flies this time of year, so I’ll be getting together all of my supplies starting tomorrow. I can’t wait to try everything. 

What’s your favorite???   

Do you have any suggestions???

Would you try any of these on your own???

 

That’s all today folks

Blessings my friends

Mary

My Very Own Weight Management Tips

Hi friends

I am official allowed to say:

I can’t believe it’s almost 2014! I have a lot of presents to give out and money is always a little tight this time of the year. I’m making homemade s’more kits with my good friend, knitting a few scarfs, and I’m also creating a few abstract canvases to give away as presents. I love crafting and most of my family and friends know that, I’m sure they will enjoy whatever I make with my hands.

I’m feeling productive today. As soon as I got up I made a list of things I needed to get done, and I’m almost done with the list! I decided to leave a few things for tomorrow, but for the most part I’ve been successful with my quest.

Let’s talk

My stay slim and trim tips

I usually look for articles with tips on how to stay in shape or get in shape, but it dawned on me last night, I’ve never featured my own personal list. A list of all the things I do on a daily bases to keep my physique where I want it.

I hope you enjoy the list. It’s proven to help keep you right and tight.

Tip #1

Eat oatmeal for breakfast everyday, 
even when I’m on vacation

  

For as long as I can remember I’ve been told that oatmeal keeps you full and can help lower body fat. I was not a believer until 2 years ago when I challenged myself to start eating oatmeal everyday for 30 day to see if I felt a difference. Not only are whole grains good for you, but oatmeal expands in your stomach making you feel fuller longer. After a breakfast of 1-5oz package of unflavored unsweetened oatmeal, sweetened with honey I’m not hungry until after lunch time. I enjoy oatmeal so much that I travel with my own packets to make sure I stay on track. Sometimes I can’t wait to hop out of bed and devour my oatmeal. Other times I have to make myself eat it because I’m not hungry; but I never regret it. I’m an oatmeal(er) for life. It’s been a few years since my 30 oatmeal challenge and I’ve lost over 30 pounds. That’s enough results for me.

Tip #2

Sweat everyday

This is harder then it seems. I workout 5-6 days a week so I’m used to sweating almost everyday. On my off days I usually complete 100 squats and 100 push ups which skyrockets my heart rate and creates some perspiration. I try to complete some kind of cardio i.e. spin bike, fast walking, running stairs, hiking, stair master, cardio interval training… The best part about this tip is your body gets stronger and you constantly have to push yourself harder and harder to work up a sweat. Last week I increased my daily push ups and squats to 150 a day, because 100 was getting to easy.

Tip #3

Embraces the pain

Pain = Results

I’m not talking about horrible, tear jerking pain. I’m talking about pushing out an extra set of exercises when your lungs are burning, your legs are on fire and you just want to give up. I’ve conditioned myself to embrace the pain of exercising because I know that’s where the results are. In my twisted little head: pain = results and I love results.

Tip #4

Eat a salad for lunch

Breakfast is covered, what’s for lunch? I am not always successful with this tip, but the more I follow my own rules the easier it is to stay in shape. Lunch can ruin your day. It’s hard not opting for fast food, greasy diner food, or the high calorie office cafeteria. To keep my body fat low I try to consume at least one salad a day. Lunch is the best time to get my daily greens. Instead of feeling bogged down by a huge meal, I’m usually energized and ready to tackle the rest of the day. I avoid mayonnaise based salads like tuna salad and egg salad, and opt for a green salad with basic toppings like tomatoes, green onions, cucumbers, carrots, and boiled eggs. I also try to add some protein to my salad like grilled, baked or boiled fish, but you can also add chicken or beef, just make sure it’s not fried.

*watch out for salad dressing, avoid anything creamy, get used to vinaigrette

Tip #5

Always Leave some food on your plate

I eat out about 3-4 days a week. I love food, the different flavor combinations, textures, and all the different kinds of foods constantly blow my mind. It’s so easy to overeat at restaurants, especially when you only eat oatmeal for breakfast and a salad for lunch. To ensure that I don’t ruin any of my hard work, I make sure to eat slowly. Taking small bites and putting the fork down while chewing. Never talking with a mouth full of food, but always contributing to a conversation. Usually 1/2 through a meal my stomach gets tight and I know I’m almost full. Sometimes it looks as if I haven’t touched my food when I’m done, but that’s not always my fault. American sized portions are 3 times what our body’s really need. I call my boyfriend the clean up crew, he can usually tell when I’m full and he starts picking at my food, until I surrender and push my plate away. Then he happily devours my leftovers and tells me how proud he is of my disciple. This didn’t come overnight. I’ve been actively working on this for the last 5 years and I’m not always successful. You have to start somewhere.

Tip #6

Enjoy a cheat day one day a week

This one is self-expiatory. At least one day a week I lose it, I eat what I want, when I want it. Try to make sure not to go too crazy.

Eat clean 80% of the time

Eat what you want 20% of the time

Tip #8

Don’t judge yourself harder then everyone else

I usually give everyone else the benefit of the doubt, but beat myself up if I’m not 100% perfect. That’s not healthy, and throughout the years I have become easier on myself. Holding myself up to unrealistic goals is just not healthy. I’m not perfect, I’m human and I’m going to make mistakes. I try to remind myself that when I’m late night snack even though I’m not hungry. Like last night at 1am. I wasn’t hungry at all but that didn’t stop me from rolling out of bed, going down stairs, and devouring a piece of leftover tortilla Espanola and a oatmeal cookie. It is what it is. Sometimes a woman gets weak and she just wants to eat

Tip #9

Don’t look at it as a diet, change your eating habits for long lasting results

Diets have never worked for me. I don’t like refraining from food. That’s why I’m not a true vegetarian, vegan, or carb-free. I couldn’t live without fish, eggs, bread and cheese. I know my limits, I’ve changed my life instead of restricting my food intake. I love seafood, but I don’t care that much for meat, so I’m a pescetarian. Find out what works for you by slowly amending your diet. It took me a while to eat as healthy as I do. Nothing comes overnight. Small steps lead to bigger steps, which in-turn can change you life. It changed mine.

Tip #10

Truly Believe in yourself even when you feel foolish

 This is the best tip I can give you. I didn’t really believe I could loose 100 pounds, but I didn’t allow that to stop me. I convinced myself that I could do anything. I felt like any idiot at 300 pounds exercising and eating less, but it paid off. I successfully tricked myself into believe in myself. Every time you say to yourself, I can’t do this. I’m stupid, I’m fat and I will always be fat. Stop yourself and tell yourself you can do it. You are worthy of change and you can do the impossible. After awhile you won’t but yourself down, you will start to believe in yourself and you will realize you can do anything you put your mind to.

I hope you all enjoyed my Tips. They have changed and shaped my life for the better. I pray they can do the same for you.

Feel free to contact me for meal planning, exercise planing, or just general support. 

I’m fun to talk to, and I would love to help you get where you want to go. 

evolvewithmary@gmail.com

Coming soon:

Low-fat, low calorie, and gluten free Holiday desserts to bring to parties or the office’s annual Holiday  party

 

Blessings my friends

Mary