CHOCOLATE COVERED PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE BITES

Blend 2/3 cup pumpkin puree, 2 ounces of light creme cheese, 1/3 cup oats, 1/4 cup coconut flour (or whatever flour you want), 2 scoops vanilla protein powder, 1 tsp pumpkin spice, and some cinnamon.

After mixing place in freezer for about 40 minutes.  Then roll into 18 bites.  Melt 1/2 cup dark chocolate chops and cover the bites.  Place back in freezer for about 10 minutes.  Then ENJOY!!

HOLIDAY SALES!!

HOLY S*IT!!  Holiday Sale by Beachbody announced today!!  Starts tomorrow…exact time not announced but these sales run out almost instantly!!  Estimated 8pm EST but it could be earlier!!

Turbo Fire:  If you like dancing around your living room (and yes I admit I do sometimes!) then this is a fun program to get.  I have not done this program from start to finish but the workouts I have done were a lot of fun! DISCOUNT 50%...$39.95 CLICK HERE

Combat: Twisting, Turning, Punching, Kicking…this is AWESOME!!  I loved this program.  You are having a blast and working your core like crazy without knowing it. DISCOUNT 60%...$23.95 (with free weighted gloves!) CLICK HERE

Insanity the Asylum: If you have done Insanity, you must take this next step!  I loved this program because it related the workouts to sports!  Shaun T really pushes you to the limit! DISCOUNT 38%...$56 CLICK HERE

P90x2: Sports Specific movements and training.  I have not done this program, but I will be purchasing it myself.  With the help of athletic trainers, this program was designed to use multiple muscle groups in every movement to maximize results. DISCOUNT 58% plus Free $60 gift… $49.95  CLICK HERE

P90x3: 30 minute workouts with the hilarious Tony Horton. He has done his research and shortened the workouts because hey…we all have other things to do, especially this time of year!  This has to be one of my favorite beachbody workouts.DISCOUNT is FREE $60 gift…$119.85 CLICK HERE

Lots of other stuff on sale too but these are the fitness programs that I really support and love as a coach and as a customer of beachbody!!  Contact me with any questions! 

CHOCOLATE AVOCADO COOKIES

Healthy cookies that are chocolate?  YES!  And
seriously you can not taste the avocado...it is simply for the texture.

1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 medium avocado
1 egg (or 2 egg whites)
few dashes of salt
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup coconut sugar (or whatever sugar you wish)
3/4 cup almond flour
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

Blend all ingredients in a blender together, you will have to scrape the sides a few times till a smooth consistency is obtained.  You can then stir in chocolate chips if you want as well!

Bake at 350 for about 10 minutes or until done.  So soft...almost cake like cookies!!  ENJOY!

OATMEAL BAKE

Perfect breakfast for people who want to pop something in the oven for 25-30 minutes while they get ready and have it be a hearty and healthy!  You can also make a large one and have it for the week!

1/2 c oats
2 egg whites
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 tsp sweetener of choice
2 Tbsp syrup or honey or agave
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 banana cut in tiny pieces
1/2 to 1 tsp cinnamon
dash of nutmeg

Mix everything together and place in a ramekin sprayed with coconut oil or whatever you choose.  Bake for 25-30 min at 350 degrees.  I drizzled peanut butter powder mixed with water on top...you could also do more syrup, jam, melted chocolate, shredded coconut...whatever you wish!  Enjoy!!

BAKED APPLE FRIES

Baked apple fries! 

Mix together some cinnamon, almond meal and some crushed up nuts (any kind you want). Dip the apple slices in syrup or honey then dip in the mixture. Bake for 10 min at 350. Oh my heaven!!! It's like apple pie in your mouth!! So simple to make!!

3 day Refresh Results!

Honestly I am head over heels in LOVE with this program. In 3 days I have become so much HAPPIER, looked forward to every morning, and felt so good and ENERGIZED! I ate poorly while over the long weekend...pizza, nachos (yes these are my favorite!)...it was all tasty but left me sluggish and feeling not so toned anymore. The 3 day refresh is a RESET button! 

1 Shakeology a day
2 Vanilla Shakes
2 veggies
2 Fruits
2 Healthy fats
and a several choices for a dinner option

...it is so easy to stick to and the benefits are truly amazing :). A light workout program can also go along with this program which for me personally I need to get out my energy and stress! 
Excited to say mom is going to try it too! 

I'm now down 6.6 pounds, and 7inches. Could not be happier!

Interested??  Questions?? EMAIL me at Lynng258@gmail.com or ORDER HERE!

COCONUT CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

INGREDIENTS:
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon vanilla
2 eggs
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/3 cup coconut flour (do not substitute for any other kind of flour)
1/3 cup dark chocolate chips



DIRECTIONS:
1.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Mix eggs, vanilla, syrup, and oil.  Blend well.
3. Add salt and flour.  Mix until combined.  Then add in chips.
4. Drop cookie batter onto a parchment lined baking sheet and bake for about 12 minutes!

So yummy!

PROTEIN BITES

Mix together:
1 cup oats
1/2 cup ground flax seed
1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter
1/3 cup honey
2 tbsp chia seeds
2 tbsp melted coconut oil
1 tsp vanilla

You can add chocolate chips if you would like OR for lower calories....after the bites have been refrigerated/in the freezer, mix together 2 tbsp melted coconut oil, 1 tsp vanilla, and 3 tbsp cocoa powder.  You can add some powder sugar if you want to.  Then drizzle on top as seen in the pictures and put back in refrigerator until ready to devour!!

PUMPKIN CREPES

Melt in your mouth pumpkin goodness is what this is.  Had to kick off October with a yummy recipe so here it is!

INGREDIENTS:
3 egg whites
1 tbsp coconut flour
2 tsp almond flour
1 tbsp almond milk
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice to your liking.

Filling:
1/3 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Topping:
Greek yogurt mixed with cinnamon and a dash of syrup or honey (whatever you want to sweeten it)
1 tbsp almond milk (so the yogurt will spread)

DIRECTIONS:
After crepe ingredients are put in blender and ready to go...Spray nonstick pan and make the crepe thin.  About 1-2 min per side.  Once all crepes are cooked (about 4 depending on how thin/big your pan is), spread with filling and roll.  Then top with the greek yogurt topping and devour!!!

More about My Story

Almost a year ago I was close to going to the emergency room. I couldn't walk on my own, cried and screamed due to the excruciating pain I was in and I could barely go to the bathroom by myself. In a blink of an eye I went from my tough college athlete 'push through anything' mentality to wondering if this was going to be forever. 

Pain management, drugs, a lot of money for treatment and therapy,chiropractic appointments, etc. With time, patience, self motivation, and the inspiration from others I slowly was able to get back to the active life I knew and loved.

So what happened? OVERTRAINING. I thought working out longer, harder, eating less, was going to break my plateau and finally bring me the confidence I longed for. I had been doing a home workout program, plus would go to the gym for at least an hour. It was truly INSANE. This reality check put things into perspective perfectly for me. Yes, I was recorded on the doctors table, drugs in me, machine hooked up to me, so that I would remember this weak moment in my life.

This is only a part of what brings me to inspire others. Patience to get into shape. Patience to learn the steps to making changes to your nutrition to make huge impacts on your body. Motivate others to workout SMART and NOT OVERTRAIN. Working out is only about 30% of it...the rest is what you're putting into your body.

So I urge you to take that first step towards a healthier, happier life. I'll be right next to you on the journey.

P90- The workout program for ALL AGES, ALL ABILITY LEVELS!

This new program from the extraordinary trainer Tony Horton is one for ALL AGES, ALL ABILITY LEVELS!!  I am very excited about it this program because everyone does not want an extreme program.  At some points extreme people need to tone it down OR some need an introductory workout program into fitness.  This is exactly what this program is all about.

Tony made P90X, P90X2, P90X3 and knows what he is talking about.  He discovers the science behind everything and knows how to make workouts effective with low modification. I personally think he is HILARIOUS and makes the workouts so much fun!!  The time flies by!

Here is a video clip showing some of what the workouts are like!!!

CLICK HERE

I am really excited to see what this program is all about as I have heard nothing but amazing things!! I am excited to introduce this program to my parents who do have certain restrains with their movements but I am sure this will be something that will excite them!


From Tony Horton himself,

"P90 is the result of everything I've learned in 20 years.

Results from 90 days of P90!

Here's the key . . . In as little as 25 minutes a day, P90 will help you completely change your body—not by working you harder—but by keeping it simple. Simple cardio. Simple resistance training. A simple approach to portion control. I won't say these new workouts are easy . . . but they're a whole lot easier to get done now. And that's how P90 will help you finally get the body you want."

If you are interested, email me at Lynng258@gmail.com.  I can help you get connected with the amazing program :)

PB BANANA CUPS (NO BAKE!)

I love Instagram for the pure reason of seeing recipes, tweaking them, and then trying them out!  This is one that I will for sure hold onto.

INGREDIENTS:
2 TBSP coconut oil melted
5 TBSP any nut butter you want
2 TSP pure maple syrup
2 tsp cocoa powder
1 banana sliced (cut them thinner than mine!)

DIRECTIONS:
Mix oil, butter, and syrup.  Then pour half of this mixture into a separate bowl and mix in cocoa powder. 

Now you have a "PB" bowl and a "chocolate" bowl.

Place 8 mini muffin cups onto a tray. Pour the chocolate layer into each cup then freeze for 30 minutes

Remove from freezer, place a slice of banana on each and top with the Peanut butter layer. Freeze for another 30-45 minutes.

DEVOUR!

BLACK BEAN BROWNIES VERSION 2

INGREDIENTS:
1 can black beans
3 eggs
3 tablespoons coconut oil
1/4 cup cocoa powder
3/4 cup organic sugar (I used coconut sugar)
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 pinch salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips-dark preferred



DIRECTIONS:
Place beans in a blender and crush them up a bit.  Then add the rest of the ingredients except for chips.  Put the well blended mixture in greased 8x8 square pan.  Sprinkle with chips.  Bake for 30 min in 350 degrees and enj
oy!

BLUEBERRY CRUMBLE

INGREDIENTS:
1 cup blueberries
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 TBSP honey
1 tsp cinnamon
juice from 1/2 orange

Topping:
1/3 cup coconut flour
2 TBSP unsweetened applesauce


DIRECTIONS:
Mix blueberries, nutmeg, cinnamon, honey, orange juice together.  Place in a loaf pan coated with pam and cook for 20 minutes at 325 degrees.

Mix topping together and make it into a crumble topping by squeezing together.

After 20 min, pull out blueberry mix, sprinkle topping, bake for another 20 min.  Enjoy!

Feel free to double recipe and bake in a pie dish!

BROWNIES

Another version of healthy brownies coming your way!

INGREDIENTS

2/3 cup oat flour

1/3 cup almond flour

1/4 cup coconut flour

2 eggs

1 banana

1/3 cup any kind if milk

1/3 cup coconut oil

1/3 cup cocoa powder

1 tsp vanilla 

1 1/2 tsp baking powder 

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat oven to 350

2. Melt coconut oil and mix with milk

3. Separate bowl mix all flours together. 

4. Combine the two mixtures along with the rest of the ingredients. Top with chocolate chips if desired

5. Bake for 30-35 min!

SNICKERS BAR (healthy!)

You will absolutely die when you make this recipe so get the ingredients and make this NOW!!

1st:  Blend 1/2 cup oats, 1/2 cup raw almonds, and 3 Tbsp of honey.  Form into 4 or 5 bars and place in freezer on wax paper or parchment paper.

2nd:  Puree 1/2 cup dates with a tablespoon of water at a time to make the caramel layer.  I kept having to scrape down the sides but it eventually works.  Chop up 1/4 cup almonds, or use a blender and mix it into the caramel (date) puree.  Spread this puree, which will be thick, onto the frozen nougats that were in the freezer.  Then place back in freezer.

3rd:  Mix together 3 tbsp coconut oil, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract.  Add 2 tablespoons of powder sugar if you want it a bit sweeter (yes this is not clean eating but I have a major sweet tooth!)  Pour this chocolate sauce over the frozen bars and place back in freezer to harder.

DEVOUR!!!!

SOUTHWEST HUMMUS & PESTO HUMMUS

Southwestern Hummus

1 can rinsed and drained black beans
Juice of 1 lime
1/4 cilantro leaves
1 tsp cumin
pepper, salt, chili powder to taste

Blend and enjoy!




Pesto Hummus

1 can rinsed and drained chick peas
1/3 cup tahini
2 Tbsp chickpea basil pesto
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

More about me and my fitness story

***Honesty Alert***
What was I like before beachbody?

This is a question I get asked quite a bit. I was a former college athlete who struggled with my weight and self confidence all throughout college. I loved competing and working hard but absolutely hated shopping for new clothes. I did not like how I looked in the mirror, didn't like how clothes felt on me besides my soccer clothes, and I didn't know how to fix it.

I joined weight watchers, lost some weight, worked my ass off in soccer and finished my 4 years. I had thunder thighs at the end of 4 years.

Afterwards I fell into the trap of putting on weight, dropping weight...always back and forth. I would workout for hours, but I was still never happy with my definition or the way I felt. I didn't know what to do.

Beachbody saved me. I was introduced to insanity from my beachbody coach and entered my first 30 day healthy eating group. The support from others, the health tips, motivation and meal planning...it was truly amazing to experience!! Beachbody helped me incorporate weight training, not just overdosing on cardio. It helped improve my confidence, my enjoyment in shopping came back, my love for cooking and cooking healthy was finally there. The workouts came with a schedule to follow, eating right and making unhealthy recipes the right way, drinking the shakeology...it all came together for me.

I was once an unhappy, unconfident person and then grew into a confident, outgoing person who is enthused to share my beachbody experience with others. There truly is nothing better than being healthy and getting fit.

Whenever you feel like there is nothing left, you just have to take a step in the right direction.

I am always here to help people. If they have a will...there is a way!!

BLONDIES

Try these blondies for a SWEET craving to be satisfied!!

INGREDIENTS:
1 can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/3 cup Peanut butter or almond butter (all natural)
1/4 cup of maple syrup or agave or honey (your choice!)
1/2 cup coconut sugar
5 tbsp almond flour
2 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup chocolate chips (I used a vegan kind but you can choose)

DIRECTIONS:
1. Heat oven to 350 degrees and spray a 8x8 pan with cooking spray
2. Blend all ingredients except chocolate chips in a food processor or for me....I LOVE my ninja!  Then fold the 1/3 cup chocolate chips in.
3. Spread in pan, then sprinkle the 2 tbsp chips on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes and let cool on wire rack before cutting.

HEAVEN IN YOUR MOUTH!

CHOCOLATE PUDDING

Craving Chocolate??? Don't want to pack on the pounds???

THIS IS THE PERFECT SOLUTION!!  Satisfies any chocolate craving and couldn't be easier to make!  Blend all the ingredients together in a food processor/blender and refrigerate in 4 different serving dishes.  I put them in little tupperware containers to have them on the go.  ENJOY!

BLEND:
1 1/2 Scoops Chocolate Shakeology
1 avocado
1 banana
1 cup almond milk
2 tbsp h
oney
1 tsp vanilla

CAULIFLOWER MAC & CHEESE

Seriously this recipe is super easy and well worth it!  It will not add pounds to the waist line like real mac and cheese!  Give it a go and let me know what ya think!

INGREDIENTS:
1 head of cauliflower broken into florets
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
1/2 cup milk of choice
1/2 cup shredded gruyere cheese or whatever cheese you want
salt and pepper to taste
Panko-optional

DIRECTIONS:
1. Toss cauliflower with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and 1 tbsp olive oil.  Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes or till crispy.
2. While that is cooking heat up the rest of the oil, combine with flour to make a paste.  Add milk and keep stirring.  Then add cheese and salt and pepper.
3. Take cauliflower out and put in a pyrex dish.  Pour sauce over top. Optional panko breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 10 more minutes.
4. Garnish with parsley and enjoy!!!

3 Day Refresh Results!!

I was totally off track with eating healthy lately.  I had parties to attend, 4th of July, BBQ's, etc.  I left all of this get in the way of a healthy lifestyle that I love.  I was establishing bad habits and was disappointed for not feeling the best.  I was tired all the time, not sleeping well, clothes didn't fit the same....IT SUCKED!!

I also felt bloated and hated looking in the mirror. I was just not happy and overall knew I could do better!

So I got the 3 Day Refresh, a New program from Beachbody that you watch the video and see more about: CLICK HERE 

For the rest of July, It is only $140!!!...That is over $70 in savings as you get a bag of shakeology, and the 3 day refresh!!  Seriously this is even more the reason why I couldn't pass up this opportunity.


THE PROCESS:
You have 1 Shakeology a day, 2 Vanilla fresh shakes that come with the package, 1 Fiber sweep drink, and some fruits and vegetables along with healthy fats.  Honestly, it really isn't bad at all.  A lot of those Juice cleanses or fasts leave you starving and hating life....I LOVED THIS!!  I did not feel hungry and if I got any urges, I  just had some green tea.  I highly recommend this program.

THE RESULTS:

So 3 Days later, I FEEL AMAZING!!! Bloating is gone, I am so happy looking in the mirror, I do not have cravings anymore and I am staying on track.  Not distracted by outside, unhealthy foods, do not want pastries which I was getting into a bad habit of, and most of all MY CLOTHES FEEL GOOD ON ME!  I FEEL SEXY, I FEEL FIT.  That is the biggest part :)  And hey, I am back on track and going to CONTINUE losing and toning my body and eating healthy!!


DOWN 4.4 Pounds in 3 days
LOST 6 inches TOTAL
         .5 inches off both arms
         1.5 inches off my chest
         2.5 inches off my hips
         1 inch off each leg
         .5 inches off my butt  (and yes I measure this because I am always doing squats to make this firmer for bikini season haha)

So there it is.  My recap of the 3 Day refresh!  If you want the Challenge pack this month, DO IT NOW!!!!!  CLICK HERE

CRISPY CAULIFLOWER CRUST PIZZA

INGREDIENTS:
1 head (Small Head) Cauliflower 
1/4 cups Parmesan Cheese 
1/4 cups Mozzarella Cheese 
1/4 teaspoons Salt
3/4 teaspoons Dried Basil
1/2 teaspoons Dried Oregano 
1/2 teaspoons Garlic Powder
1/2 teaspoons Red Pepper Flakes
1 Egg

DIRECTIONS:
1. Place a baking sheet in the oven and Preheat to 450ºF. On a cutting board, place a large piece of parchment paper and spray it with nonstick cooking oil.

2. Wash and ry a small head of cauliflower. Cut off the florets and Pulse in your food processor for about 30 seconds, until you get powdery snow like cauliflower. You should end up with 2 to 3 cups cauliflower “snow”. Place the cauliflower in a microwave safe bowl and cover. Cook for 4 minutes. Dump cooked cauliflower onto a clean tea towel and allow to cool for a bit before attempting the next step.

3.Once cauliflower is cool enough to handle, wrap it up in the dish towel and wring the heck out of it. You want to squeeze out as much water as possible. This will ensure you get a chewy pizza like crust instead of a crumbly mess.

4. Dumped squeezed cauliflower into a bowl. Now add Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper. Now add the egg and mix away.

5.Once mixed together, use your hands to form the dough into a crust on your oiled parchment paper. Pat it down throughly, you want it nice and tightly formed together. Don’t make it too thick or thin either.

6.Using a cutting board, slide the parchment paper onto your hot pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 8-11 minutes, until it starts to turn golden brown. Remove from oven.

7. Add however much sauce, cheese, and toppings you want. Slide parchment with topped pizza back in the hot oven and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

GERMAN CHOCOLATE CAKE BITES

Hands down these are SO SIMPLE to make and so yummy!!  Seriously give these a try!

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup (6-8) fresh dates
1/2 cup raw pecans
2 Tablespoons raw cacao nibs
2 Tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut


DIRECTIONS:
1. Put pecans and coconut in blender until it is flour like consistency
2. Add the cacao nibs and dates and blend until fully incorporated.
3. Take a tablespoon of the mixture, roll into a ball.
4. Place in a sealed container and store in the fridge.

ENJOY!!

CINNAMON SWIRL PROTEIN PANCAKES

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 banana mashed up
1 1/2 Tbsp almond milk
1 egg white
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 Tbsp oat flour
1/2 scoop cinnamon swirl cellucor protein powder

DIRECTIONS:
1. Mix wet ingredients together, set aside.
2. Mix dry ingredients together, set aside.
3. Mix wet and dry ingredients and cook on pan strayed with pam.
4. ENJOY and top with a little greek yogurt mixed with PB2 and honey!! Or whatever you prefer:)

Pancake Problems!

So I have to confess...because the 1st step is admitting you have a problem.  Well....I HAVE A PANCAKE OBSESSION!!  Seriously though I love them, any kind, any topping, any time of the day.

I have even worked them into the 21 Day Fix eating plan so that I do not go crazy without them.  From pumpkin pancakes to banana chocolate pancakes, cinnamon swirl pancakes to cinnamon apple pie pancakes...EVEN spaghetti squash pancakes or Shakeology Pancakes!  You name it and I will try it!







What makes the perfect pancakes???  In my personal opinion it HAS to be a bit on the sweet side.  Fluffy texture is a MUST! And for toppings...I love maple syrup but to steer towards the healthy side I will combine greek yogurt with PB2 or just thin out PB2 with water and drizzle it over the top.

So get creative, and get cooking to make HEALTHY versions of pancakes!! I have added two NEW pancake recipes to my blog!!

Meal Plan for the week- 21 Day Fix Approved

Last week was a rough one...my mood was off, I was overwhelmed with work, and I failed to plan my meals leaving me reaching for whatever was in sight.  Not to mention all of the wine that was consumed!

So today I got back on track and made my meal plan, went shopping and prepared everything for the week. I got more creative with my meal planning because I flat out was just SICK AND TIRED of salads EVERYDAY for lunch!  And of course had time for my 30 minute workout with Autumn on the 21 Day Fix workout plan! I seriously love this program because even if you fall off the wagon...it is so easy to get back up again! I am excited to start fresh and be ready to conquer the week!

I have found when I plan everything out for the week, I spend WAYYYYY less money on groceries which means more money in the savings account!....BONUS!! Meal plan below :) 

HEALTHY BIRTHDAY CAKE

ONLY 5 INGREDIENTS!!! Thank you to @tastyhealth for the recipe!

150g whole almonds
1 tsp baking powder
4 Tbsp granulated sweetener of choice
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 Whole eggs plus 2 egg whites

DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a 7" or 8" round pan with parchment paper
2. Place almonds in a food processor and run for a couple minutes until the almonds are ground to a course meal.  Put the almond meal in a bowl, add baking powder and stir well.  Set aside.
3. Whisk one egg white in a bowl until stiff and set aside.  This will take a long time by hand so an electric mixer would be a HUGE help!!
4. In a mixing bowl beat eggs plus one egg white with sweetener (I used stevia) until fluffy. Add the almond meal and stir just until evenly combined.  GENTLY fold in the stiff egg white.  DO NOT STIR!  You want to keep the air in the batter.  Pour into the pan and immediately put in the oven.
5. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until cake has risen.
6. Allow to cool for 10 minutes, run a knife along the sides and invert the pan onto a large plate.
7. When it is completely cool, cut cake in half and fill it with whatever you like!  I used mashed up bananas and Justin's Hazelnut PB (whipped with milk).  Top with cool whip or frosting!!  SOOO GOOD!! 

FRENCH TOAST (in slow cooker)

Another one of my breakfast favorites turned into a healthy recipe!!

INGREDIENTS:
2 eggs
2 egg whites
2 Tbsp of honey or agave
2 tsp of vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups of almond milk (or whatever milk you prefer)
1 tsp cinnamon
9 slices of whole grain bread (each slice cut diagonally to make 18 triangles)

Filling ingredients:
3 cups of dices apples or bananas
3 Tbsp honey
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp cinnamon

DIRECTIONS:

1. Add the first 6 ingredients together in a bowl and whisk. Lightly spray the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a separate bowl, Mix all the filling ingredients together, making sure the fruit is coated. Set aside.
3. Place 6 triangle slices of bread in the bottom of the slow cooker.  Add 1/4 of the filling.  Repeat until there are 3 layers of bread.  Add remaining filling.
4. Pour egg mixture over bread. Cover and cook on high 2 to 2 1/2 hrs or until bread has soaked up the liquid.  
5. I topped mine with some liquified PB2, and heated up jam.  You could also do syrup. ENJOY!!

BLUEBERRY WAFFLES WITH CINNAMON HONEY PB

Heaven on earth!!  I love breakfast and I am always looking for ways to make healthy versions of the high in calorie classics.  Here is a good one...enjoy!

INGREDIENTS FOR WAFFLE:
1/4 c oat flour
1 Tbsp coconut flour
1 Tbsp powder peanut butter
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
2 Packets of Stevia
2 Tbsp almond milk
2 Tbsp unsweetened apple sauce
1 Tbsp Nonfat plain greek yogurt
3/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp butter extract (if you want)
handful of blueberries

DIRECTIONS:
Mix dry ingredients together.  Then mix wet ingredients into it.  Fold in blueberries.

DIRECTIONS FOR PB:
Place 8oz of peanuts (unsalted) in blender with 1 Tbsp honey and cinnamon to taste.  Continue to blend until it turns into peanut butter.  NO SALT, NO OIL, NO SUGAR NEEDED!!

STUFFED SWEET POTATOES

When I saw this recipe I just had to try it!  My mom makes the unhealthy version of this over Thanksgiving so when I tried it and showed this to her...she said I'm hired this year to make it!  Try it out and let me know what ya think!


INGREDIENTS:
2 Medium sweet potatoes, cooked (bake or microwave)
1 Tbsp peanut butter
1 Tbsp cream cheese (1/3 less fat)
2 egg whites
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
mini marshmallows
corn flakes
almond slivers or pecans

DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 375
2. Cut sweet potatoes in half and scoop out the middle, leaving the skin as a "shell"
3. Mix sweet potato insides with PB, cream cheese, egg whites and spices.
4. Scoop mixture back into shells.
5. Crush up the almonds and corn flakes, crumble on top and place a few mini marshmallows on top.
6. Bake for 15 minutes until marshmallows begin to brown.  Can broil for last minute if desired.

ENJOY!

21 Day Fix Results!!

This 21 day experience was pretty amazing.  I learned so so much about myself, my eating habits, how nutrition truly makes the biggest difference in results, and how food is surrounding us in our day to day lives without us even realizing it.

Week 2 was a bit of a struggle as I will flat out admit I cheated several times. The media surrounds us with food and I was weak and gave in. But week 3 I was STRONG and DETERMINED as I knew I had a trip to Florida just days away.  I stuck to it, did the 3 day quick fix at the end, did the double workouts and nailed it! It is more about what I learned than my "number" results but at the same time I am so happy with how much toning and how hard the actual workouts are. I thought there was no way a 30 minute workout could kick my ass...WRONG!

Things learned:

• I used to eat SO MUCH EXTRA food during meal prep
• I ate too much carbs
• I used to crave sweets and fruit all the time
• I would eat too close to bed time
• I didn't hydrate enough
• I worked out too much and did not match my efforts in the kitchen

After this 21 day fix, I will now take it into round two after a few days away in Florida to get some sun and relaxation time.  I will still hold myself accountable while away by knowing how much of each kind of food to eat, even when I am out to eat. SERIOUSLY those few bites of bad, unhealthy food is NOT WORTH THE GUILT AFTER! I will get my workouts in before hitting up the beach, and you better believe I am taking my shakeology with me!  I already looked up that the hotel had a gym before we booked it...have to sweat it out before putting the bikini on.

So the results.... Lost 7 pounds, 4 inches.  I am told my booty looks a lot smaller but that isn't one of the measurements I took haha so add a couple inches to that total lost! Waist is smaller, I FINALLY lost inches off of my soccer legs, and toned up my back and abs.  Beyond excited!

This program was by far the best way to learn how to eat properly.  It truly SIMPLIFIES NUTRITION, and CHALLENGES YOU IN 30 MINUTE WORKOUTS!! The color coded portion controlled containers were awesome!  If you are thinking about this program, JUST DO IT!

And always ask me Lynng258@gmail.com if you have any questions about the program!

Week 1 OVER! Heading into Week 2 of 21 Day Fix

Wow did this week go by so fast!  I was prepared for a week of starving and got just the opposite.  The 21 day fix is no joke...you are NOT starving, but instead are fueling your body with what it needs.  I was shocked that my body handled it so well.

DOWN 4 pounds so far--have yet to measure inches. But it isn't even about that, it is about how amazing I feel and how much more energy I have!

Things I have learned:

1. You can take the 21 day fix on the road!  I traveled out of state to North Carolina to visit my best friend.  I was scared because I had only been on the fix for 2 days and traveling was definitely a major concern.  Honestly, it was so easy to stay on track.  As long as your meals are packed and you are prepared then there is NO reason not to succeed!

2. WOW did I eat a lot of carbs before the FIX.  I used to eat wayyyyy to many, and crave them all the time.  I was probably over eating carbs because my body was still hungry due to lack of protein in my previous meal plans before the fix.

3. I used to eat fruit too close to bed time.  I will admit...I love my sleep. I have the habit of at least getting 8 hours a night so that I am not cranky.  Before the fix I would eat too close to bed time AND be eating fruit before bed. (Plus I was choosing the fruits highest in grams of sugar!)  All those sugars were bad for my body to break down.

 

4. 30 minutes of working out is definitely enough!  I LOVE being in the gym for hours.  Not sure if its the people interaction or what but it is fun and enjoyable to me.  But I have A LOT more time to do other things I love AND be caught up on all my work emails.  Plus working out from home is so convenient..no travel time around crazy Boston. TOTAL BONUS!



Looking into Week 2...

Meal planning was SO MUCH EASIER and I was SO MUCH MORE CREATIVE in the meals.  So excited for some of the foods this week!!  I may even substitute some healthy pancakes in for a breakfast planned!  And yes, there will be some edits for some "treats" which replace a yellow container in there twice this week because seriously those recipes in the 21 Day fix book are AMAZING!!  Here is the meal plan.

21 Day Fix Begins!

So some of you have heard about this new program by Beachbody called the 21 Day Fix.  Well yesterday started my journey on this challenge to see what it is all about.

First things first...what does it entail?

• 30 minute home workouts (with Autumn Calabrese who is an awesome motivator!)
• Portion control eating...NOT A STARVATION DIET (Color coded containers as shown!)
• Eating the right amount of different kinds of foods...based on your current weight
• Proper hydration (seriously make it exciting and mix it up a bit with some ideas shown below...live a little people!)
• Eating 5 meals a day, about every 2-3 hours

Can I Cheat?...Can I have a drink?

• Sure you can substitute one purple container for a 4oz glass of wine 3 times a week
• Autumn gives you "TREAT" recipes that you can use to substitute for one yellow container

But what about my SHAKEOLOGY?!?
Don't you worry shakeology lovers....you can still have your shake!  And personally I prefer it because it is an easy meal to "plan" and it substitutes as a protein. Protein for me is always a weak area because I just never eat enough of it.  A great tool they give you in the book is the tally sheets to make sure you are hitting all of the proper containers throughout the day. The first week was hard to plan, I will flat out admit that, but even after a day of doing it, it is so easy to follow through!







FREE FOODS....say whattttttt?
Yeah I was so excited to hear there were free foods too!  Mustards, vinegars, fresh or dry spices are just amongst a few under this category.  And thank goodness for this because I love my condiments!







What am I looking forward to the most?

• I am only on day two and yes I already lost a pound on the first day so clearly weight loss is a motivator!
• I am also looking forward to learning so much more about my nutrition.  It is crazy to me that I already realized how often I was eating TOO BIG of portion sizes.  I used to eat so much oatmeal in the morning and put minimal fruit in it where now it is the opposite way around!  
• 30 minute workouts!  I am a gym rat through and through.  I love being there, love being around people who share a health and fitness passion...but hell I can't pass up 30 minute workouts AT HOME!  I hate traveling to the gym in the snow so this will help!

 Have more questions on the 21 Day Fix?? Just ask!! 

SPAGHETTI SQUASH PASTA WITH SAUCE AND CLEAN TURKEY MEATBALLS

Step 1: To cook Squash cut it in half, take out the seeds, and place cut side down in a baking dish.
Fill with about a 1/2 inch of water and cook on 375 degrees for about 45 minutes or until tender.

Step 2: Let cool and then using a fork scrape the squash out.  It will look like long strands of pasta!

Step 3: Make homemade sauce or choose a clean eating one off the shelf.  Sorry no sharing my family's recipe!


Ingredients for Meatballs:
1 1/2 lbs lean ground turkey
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1 egg lightly beaten
1 cup oat bran
3 Tbsp fresh parsley chopped
3 Tbsp fresh basil chopped
2 cloves of garlic mashed
1 tsp sea salt
1 1/2 tsp black pepper
red pepper flakes to taste (optional)

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Combine egg and oat bran.  Add spices and mix.
3. Add remaining ingredients and mix.
4. Make into little meatballs and place on a cookie sheet sprayed with pam
5. Cook for about 20 minutes, turning them half way through.

ENJOY ALL THE ABOVE!!!!

BLUEBERRY CORNBREAD MUFFINS

INGREDIENTS:
2/3 cup corn meal
1/2 cup oat flour
1/4 cup flour of your choice (I used oat flour)
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
3-4 tbsp honey (or I used agave)
2 eggs
1/3 cup +1 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
1/3 cup almond milk
1/3 cup blueberries (or add more like I did!)

DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees
2. Mix all ingredients together except blueberries.  You can mix by hand or use a blender
3. FOLD in blueberries OR if you prefer, pour batter into muffin tins sprayed with Pam, and press a few berries on top of each muffin.
4. Bake for about16-22 minutes (makes 10 muffins)

Macros: 127 calories, 22 carbs, 5 protein, 2g fat

CHICKPEA BASIL PESTO

INGREDIENTS:

1 can chickpeas rinsed and drained
1 cup fresh basil
1 Tbsp olive oil
Juice of one lime
3 Tbsp water
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp natural sweetener

DIRECTIONS:
Mix all ingredients in a food processor. Store in the fridge!

YOU WILL LOVE THIS ON EVERYTHING!