Coffee Talk!!

Is it FRIDAY yet??!!!! Hellooo my loves!!!

3 Random Thoughts:

1 - This week is seriously FLYING by and I am forever grateful because last weekend was a SERIOUS whirlwind! Like I needed to sleep for 48 hours straight whirlwind. I had back to back shoots, then a little birthday celebration time with one of my oldest friends, shopping, quality time with my mini and lots of stuff in between. I will say, I had some CRAZY fun shoots! (imagine a unicorn....um hellllloooo, I can't EVEN!) So now I am on the editing frenzy, but it's all good because I am FINALLY at a place where I am not stressed beyond BELIEF with life! Holla to that!

oh and because you TRULY need to see and appreciate the unicorn...here ya go. You're Welcome.

2 - I just started a new book this week and am really loving it. Super easy read, a lot of humor and a really good perspective on life. I highly recommend it if you are on the market for something new to read. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. I love when I start reading a book and I don't want to put it down! It's such a nice change to just be living for ME! No one else! Just ME and my little family!

3 - Speaking of living for ME!! My whole new outlook and motto for life is SIMPLIFY!!! This last week has really been a week of reflecting. Reflecting about what is TRULY important in life, what I enjoy doing, what I want to spend my time doing, who I want to spend it with etc. It is a seriously SHORT ride on this roller coaster called life. I for one do NOT want to have regrets. No regrets that I didn't spend time with my husband or kids, that I worked too much, that I didn't relax enough, that I was too busy....you get the idea. I sit and watch social media and see this one or that one doing sooo much more, living in a fabulous place, having a fancy house, keeping their shit together and then I think 'hmmm...this is just what I see on SOCIAL MEDIA....is it reality?' Hell, maybe it is, maybe life is really that perfect ALL. OF. THE. TIME.  Life is NOT perfect. No one is PERFECT. Everyone has days where they test each other's patience. No matter how much this funny farm drives me bonkers all I know is I want to know that I enjoyed EVERY moment with them, the good, the bad and the ugly. I never want to say I was toooo busy making something of myself I missed out on them. For anyone who is afraid of 40, I just have to be honest....this is my year of truth. I feel like I FINALLY know who I am. Embrace it...the best is yet to come! (please excuse the bad language....it was a HOT topic moment!!! LOL)

Have a absolutely FABULOUS weekend!! Get out and enjoy the beautiful weather!!! XO

Coffee Talk!!

The drill:

Hugs, kisses, grab your coffee, sit down and start the gab sesh!!!

4 Random Thoughts:

1 - Ohhhh Spring you FINALLY decided to arrive and your beauty is making my heart go pitter patter!!! Flowers are sprouting up on our trees and that equals PURE happiness!!! (It's about time, damn it....we will ignore last weekend's RIDIC weather)

2 - This beautiful weather is JUST in time for 5 shoots that I have this weekend!!!! Everything from communion, senior pics, to cake smashes and engagement! It should be a BLAST!!! Get ready for some sneak peek ACTION!

3 - It's exactly 2 WEEKS until the BIG 4 0!!! I am PUMPED!!! I never in a MILLION TRILLION years thought I would welcome this milestone with open arms, but I think it's pretty kick ASS that I am in the BEST shape I have ever been in!  Can NOT wait for our little getaway weekend with the bestie!!!

4 - Meditation is STILL happening....shocked? Yeah, I know...me TOOOO!!!  Seriously, I really am loving it. So many things in my life are much more in perspective after these last few weeks and it feels really good!

Coffee Talk!

Helllooo Helllooo Hellllooo!!!! Get that coffee and let's DO this!!!

5 Random Thoughts:

1 - Anyone who knows where Spring is, let her know I am looking for her and am pretty OVER the fact that douche bag Winter is still here!!! Just sayin! Seriously...PULEEZE bring the warmer temps to us....please!

2 - Is there such a thing as being a Renewed Soul? Um, because I for REAL feel like one!!! I feel like I am finally getting my S*%t together and the internal me is at such PEACE! So many things are being prioritized and put into the right perspective and my focus is where it needs to be. Happy, Healthy, Relaxed....a new me. I can seriously get used to this girl!!! ;) A HUGE weight was lifted when I cleared my computer of ALL of the sessions that I had left to edit for friends and family from all the way back to LAST year.....RIDIC! It's a clean slate and I'm ready for a new view of my life...the scaled down, not crammed, simpler view.....so far it's BEAUTIFUL!

3 - My next challenge group is starting up on Monday, April 11th and I am super stoked for these new peeps! I am LOVING all of the messages I am receiving about how excited they are to start a new journey! How lucky am I to have challengers from down under as well as from Canada!!??? Seriously?? I LOVE getting to help people! It's crazy to think how far I have come with this coaching gig in just ONE year!!!

4 - Well I took my first shot at meditation the past 2 nights and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised!!! Here are my takeaways:

•  I really enjoyed the peace and tranquility of it all
• One thing I was truly surprised at was how easy it really was for me to clear my mind. I had visions of thinking of all the crap I have to do running through my head I figured it would be a HUGE fail!
• 5 minutes was a PERFECT starting time. I have read a lot about not putting too much pressure on yourself with high expectations....yep 5 was the magic number...for now at least!
• I don't know if I believed that I would feel any different after BUT I did! I was really relaxed. I'm choosing to do mine at night before bed. I start my day full of energy and getting my workout in, so ending it this way just seems right. 

To sum it up, if you are thinking of trying it, I would highly suggest it. Anything that is helping center you and make you feel better on the inside and out is NOT a bad thing, no matter what the haters in your life think!

5 - Wish me luck...I have my very FIRST ever dermatologist appt this Friday! I have NEVER in my life had any of my moles checked so since this is my oober healthy 40 month I'm doing it!!! Fingers crossed!!!

Ok that's it. Love, Health and Happiness...if you don't have it....go GET it!!!! XO

Brussel Sprout & Balsamic Drizzle Pizza

OMG!!!! There are no words, absolutely NO words to truly describe how DELISH this pizza was!!!! As soon as I laid my eyes on it I knew this recipe was going to be LOVE at first BITE!!!! If you are a brussel sprout lover or if you have been wanting to try them (ya know the new way instead of the boiled mush way we all grew up on) definitely give this a taste!!! It was pretty simple to throw together and the balsamic drizzle is what ABSOLUTELY makes this divine! It is just the finishing touch it needs!!! Sooooo get ready for your taste buds to SCREAM with happiness! Kiddos agreed that it was AH-MAZING!!!  Let me know how you like it!!! XO


BALSAMIC DRIZZLE

1/2 cup of Balsamic Vinegar
1 Tbsp Honey
Dash of Sea Salt

Add the ingredients to a small saucepan.

Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to medium low and simmer for 6 to 8 minutes or until it has reduced to about 3 tbsps and is a thick, syrupy consistency. (mine actually had to simmer more like 10 - 12, so just keep an eye on it)


PIZZA

Ingredients:

1 pizza dough (I used a thin wheat dough)
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 lb brussel sprouts (trim the ends, and peel the leaves off)
1/2 yellow onion (sliced thin)
2 cloves of garlic minced
Sea Salt & Ground Pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan (I splurged and got the Parmigiano Reggiano, but regular shredded Parm would be fine)
1/2 cup part skim Ricotta Cheese
Balsamic Drizzle

1. Preheat oven to 450

2. In large skillet on medium high, heat the tbsp of olive oil until it's hot

3. Add the thinly sliced onion into a single layer

4. Season the onion with sea salt and pepper and saute for 5 - 7 minutes or until soft and carmelized.

5. Add in the minced garlic and brussel sprout leaves and saute another 2 to 3 minutes or until the leaves have softened.

6. Remove mixture and set aside.

7. Brush the top of pizza dough with olive oil and sprinkle sea salt and pepper.

8. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded parmesan on top and then spread brussel sprout mixture evenly all over the top of the pizza

9. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded parmesan and then place dollops of ricotta all over. (I am a HUGE ricotta fan, so do to your personal preference)

10. Bake the pizza for 12 - 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden. (in the middle of cooking I did take the back of a spoon and press it into the ricotta clumps to kind of flatten them a bit)

11. Remove from oven and drizzle with the balsamic glaze! VOILA!!

Coffee Talk!

Helllllooooo loves! Well did you recover from last week's bombshell?? I know, I know....a lot to take in!!! If you don't know what I'm talking about it's all here.  Let's just get back to our normal routine....

4 Random Thoughts

1. I am staying on course with not doing any shoots past that first weekend in June. (The only peeps this does NOT apply to is my family and super duper close friends) Sorry loves, I need to keep my sanity for whatever lies ahead and right now I'm wondering if I just really need a break from photography in general. It's a super saturated market, it's pretty cut throat and I don't want to lose my passion for it. I know it seems pretty easy for someone to pick up a camera and start charging people but truth be told it's A LOT of work, A LOT of time away from your family, and A LOT of investment. I don't think everyone who is interested in photography sees that in the beginning. My family is NUMBER one to me and I've missed out on lots of things due to being SWAMPED with editing, back to back shoots, on top of working another job outside of the home. I want to get back to why I LOVED it in the first place, back to documenting my own family. I've missed out on that. I don't capture our life with my big camera as much anymore, just my cell phone, so one of my goals is to get back to that. I'm not saying I won't ever do it again but for now it will be for family and close friends while I'm still here.

2 - Big 4 0 is on the way! First outfit came in the mail.....BIG freaking FLOP!!! Soooo bummed! I LOVED it on line! It came and looked RIDIC on me!!!! Nothing is a bigger disappointment than when you think you are going to totally ROCK something and it comes and you look like a BAG lady! LOL! Oh well, back to the drawing board!!!! #supermodelfail

3- Nutribullet and I just broke up for GOOD!!! Ugh! I just don't understand! I literally just exchanged that one LAST month! This time I had my shake all loaded up ready to go, I set it on the base to blend it and it jammed and wouldn't even start!!!! #goingtolosemycrap   I won't be exchanging it for another one that is for SURE!!! I've heard a lot of good things about the Ninja, do any of you have any suggetions/feedback?

4 - I am completely ECSTATIC for the arrival of SUMMER!!!! I think knowing that I have freedom this summer is making me HEART it that much more!!!! I just want to do day trip after day trip, make memories, eat on cute outdoor patios, enjoy fruity cocktails, listen to music, grill out and soak up EVERY living second of beautiful weather!!!! Sunshine = happiness for this girl!!!

Ok loves, that's all for today! Thanks for keeping up with me!!! XO

Coffee Talk!!

Happy St. Patty's Day!!! Go ahead and get your green beer coffee and let's start the gossip!!

5 Random Thoughts:

1 - Ok, first how the HELLLLLLoooo is it St. Patty's Day already??!!! Half way thru March, that is seriously NUTS!! It's always a bittersweet day because we ALWAYS celebrated with our peeps in AZ and I miss that terribly! It will be another low key one for us...what are you all doing?!!

2 - Last weekend was my very FIRST outdoor session of 2016 and it was LOVELY!!! I am soooo at home doing outdoor shoots and the models...well they couldn't get more perfect if they tried! ;) Ok, maybe I am slightly bias....#proudauntieoverhere #thosegirlscompleteme

3 - This week I have dealt with a lot of judgement and negativity and all I can say about all of that is LET IT GO!!!!!!!!!!! (to the tune of Frozen!) I'm not going to waste anymore of my good energy and time letting that take up space in my mind and heart! I'll just leave it at everyone is different, everyone likes different things, don't judge others, if you don't have anything nice to say don't say anything at all. :)  Hell I don't LOVE all of the political hoopla but I keep my mouth shut. That's what you enjoy talking about....have at it. End Rant.

4 - Deodorant update and other fashion info. Week 2 of the natural deodorant and I'm happy to report no issues, still smelling my armpits (think Saturday Night Live skit here) and surprisingly I don't smell!!! Weird! So I'm trudging on it using it! The family went on a date to the eye doctor last week and I FINALLY upgraded my glasses so now I have some new fabulous specs for when I want to give my eyeballs a break!!! I am ordering my Birthday outfit...fingers crossed that it's rocking and super cute in person!!!!! ;)

5 - Speaking of photoshoots....um, I literally am COMPLETELY booked for Spring! If you are interested in booking for summer shoot me a message and I will get you on the calendar. Word of advice, do NOT wait until the last minute! I hate having to turn peeps away but I am defintely doing a limited number of sessions this year for 2 reasons. 1 - my sanity so I don't burn out and lose my passion for what I LOVE and 2 - because my family/personal time is OOBER important to me and it's soooo much more work then just snapping photos at a shoot. It takes up a lot more time away from my family.  That being said I am BLOWN away by the inquiries!!! Muahhhh!!!

Ok that's it! Go to pub tonight! Drink green beer and enjoy time with family and friends, but BE SAFE!!! Life is short...enjoy it!!!!

Coffee Talk!!

It's time! Grab your coffee!!!

5 Random Thoughts:

1 - HOLY FREAKING BEEE-YOU-TIFUL weather! The last 2 days have completely, utterly spoiled me and gave me the biggest FREAKING smile!!! 75 degree days in March with FULL sun....I will take it! I don't care who you are sunshine is good for the soul! Sunshine equals happy and happy equals relaxed! I absolutely DESPISE looking outside at doom & gloom with dead twigs!!! Everyone is lucky that I wasn't either walking around in a bathing suit or my birthday suit this week!! ;) LOL! Ok, fine, anyone who knows me, knows that would not happen but I feel like you need to really soak up and ENJOY any and all good weather days here!!!

2. Sooooo 40 is around the corner! I had such lavish dreams of celebrating in beautiful Sedona with close friends and my sister at one of my favorite vineyards, BUT our life is full of unknowns right now so that had to be nixed. However when you have an absolute fabulous bestie in Jersey, along with the world's best sister they absolutely won't let you hit this milestone depressed and ready to hang from a tree!! ;) Sooooo a beach house has been booked and I can NOT wait to spend a guaranteed AH-MAZING 40th with these peeps!!! The countdown is on...now it's time to find an outfit!!! eeeeekkkkkk!!

3. My spring photography calendar is basically booked!!! What the!!!??? Best CLIENTS...EVER! I am seriously blown away! I love all of you soo much and am so grateful for each and every one of you. If you are still interested in a session, definitely message me just in case we could work you in!!!

4. Deodorant - weird topic, right?! Well you know I like to keep you up to date on any and all new healthier products that I am trying out and yep, this is one!! I've been getting really nervous about deodorant lately with all of the cancer risks that have come out related to it. Listen I spent sooooo much money and time at the doctor last year, I want NOTHING to do with any medical scares! So in hopes of trying to eliminate as many chemicals as I can within reason I gave a natural deodorant a try. (which of course I am doing in baby steps because quite honestly it would be IMPOSSIBLE for me to replace everything we use that is toxic without re-financing the house!!) First off I won't lie...it takes some getting used to! I am on day 5 and I think I spend most of the day with my nose in my pit, NOT even KIDDING, because I am sooooo worried I STINK!!! Good news is I don't!!! Who knows if I will stick with it but I am willing to try anything so here goes nothing! I will update you a month in and let you know if I'm still on this kick!! ;)

5 - I may or may not be stalking the mail man as I wait for my 22 Minutes Hard Corps to arrive!!! eeeeekkkkk I am sooooo flipping excited to give this workout a try! So many peeps are having crazy good results and again...22 minutes! Sign me up!!!  Next group is starting Monday, March 14th...here's the link if you are interested!! ---> here.

Chicken, Quinoa & Kale Soup

Ok loves!!! This scrumptious sounding soup was a HUGE hit!!!! Not only was it healthy & DELISH...it goes in the crock pot and you know how I HEART that!!! Easy Peasy!!! I saw this recipe floating around and decided to give it a whirl!!  This soup is hearty and light if that makes sense at ALL! It filled us up but still didn't feel like we needed a wheel barrel to remove us from the table!! ;) I love the kale in it and the vegetarian in the house just ate around the chicken pieces so this dish was a serious winner all around! I can't wait to share this with my challengers!!!

Give it a try and let me know what your family thinks about it!!! XO  :)


Ingredients:

1 lb Chicken (raw) cut into cubes
1 medium onion, chopped (whichever color you prefer...I used red)
4 cloves garlic minced
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
3/4 cup dry quinoa or rice
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp crushed dried rosemary
4 cans (14.5 oz) low sodium chicken broth
Salt & Pepper to taste
1 can (15.5 oz) White beans (Great Northern or Cannellini) drained & rinsed
4 cups packed, chopped kale
3 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
2 Tbsp lemon juice
finely shredded Parmesan

Directions:

Add chicken to slow cooker, then add onion & garlic, and drizzle with the olive oil. Add quinoa or rice, thyme, rosemary and chicken broth. Season with salt & pepper. Cover and cook on high 3 1/2 to 4 hours or low 7 - 8 hours.

Add in beans, kale parsley & lemon juice then cover and continue to cook on high heat another 20 minutes until kale is to desired tenderness.

Sprinkle some shredded Parm on top and serve with a crusty french loaf.

Voila!!!

Coffee Talk!!

Good Morning lovelies....another Thursday...another edition. Don't just stand there....grab your coffee and let's go!!!!

5 Random Thoughts:

1 - I'm still here after last week's 3 year edition! I didn't know if you thought I would pack up my crap and get the hell outta dodge! ;) (thought about it, but can't do that....just yet) Thank you for the sweet messages they really meant a lot.

2 - Ohhhh helllloooo beautiful weather! I almost forgot what the sun looks like but Voila you are back and brightening my days, so thank you! Now keep warming them up and you will be my new BESTIE!

3 - Had one whole day dedicated to just catch up on editing of my personal photography for various family members. I literally feel like a HUGE weight has been lifted off my shoulders....FOR REALS!!! I hate having stuff lingering but I had such a crazy photog season from Summer thru the end of Fall and I just couldn't seem to get ahead so like the plumber with bad pipes, or the mechanic with broken down cars, I am the photographer who doesn't take care of her own photos. #thestruggleisreal  So now I think I am caught up and ready to go!!! Spring sessions are filling up and I am doing a LIMITED amount of sessions this year. Trying to keep my life more balanced. Soooo if you are interested in a session be sure to message me so we can get you in the books!!!

4 - I have such an AWESOME group of challengers this round (not that they aren't all great groups, but this one just really sticks out a bit)  Nothing is better than surrounding yourself with a bunch of like minded peeps on a similar journey to you. No they don't all have the same goals or whys but they are all on a new lifestyle journey and seeing all the participation, receiving the private messages of successes etc and just the uplifting spirit of the group as a WHOLE, makes me EXCITED to check in every day!!! They often write the coaches messages saying how we changed their lives, what they don't know is they are changing OURS every time they check in and comment and take one more baby step out of their comfort zone. So here is a shout out to my FABULOUS February group! You are ROCK STARS!!!!

5 - Speaking of comfort zone.....this girl is about to step WAY out of it!!! Tony Horton's newest program 22 Minute Hard Corps was just released!! 22 minutes of Military Inspired Workouts! Just the words "Military Inspired" has me running in the opposite direction, but I have seen CRAZY, AWESOME results to the tune of 8 POUNDS/20 INCHES in 8 WEEKS!!!??? Shut the FRONT door! For me I LOVE the length of the workout or lack of the length! I am definitely NOT an hour long gym girl!!! Hell to the NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! I want to get it done as quickly as possible so I can start knocking out the rest of my To Do list. So for me (and literally peeps who use the NO TIME excuse) there is absolutely NO REASON you can't scrape together 22 minutes for your well being! You will be happier. You will have more energy. You will feel better. You will start getting definition/losing extra fluff. The list of changes can just keep going. The point is YOU are worth 22 minutes!!! Here is a video showing a clip of the workout....Yes, wish me luck but know that I WILL crush it because girl has goals and I REFUSE to fail!!!---> www.youtube.com/watch?v=6L8TLN3upDU  What are you waiting for....come join me my challenge group and let's totally ROCK this workout!!!! If you are interested in joining my next challenge group that starts March 14th or for more info on challenge groups in general click this link ---> https://melaniebostian.wufoo.com/forms/challenge-group-application/

Alright! That's it!!! I am off to enjoy my last work day of the week and get super pumped for an ADORBS one year session this weekend!!! Get ready for a sneak peek!!! XO

Stuffed Peppers with Honey Balsamic Cabbage Steaks!

Well this dinner went down tonight!!! You can imagine that my now vegetarian/almost vegan daughter was in HEAVEN!!! ;) I have been totally wanting to try the cabbage steaks for awhile so I was super stoked to get those going, the peppers however.....I'm not a HUGE pepper girl, so I wasn't as eager to dive into those! Surprisingly the whole meal was SUPER easy to prep and prepare and you know how this girl LOVES easy and make it HEALTHY and I am seriously SOLD! The final word from the family tonight - It's a KEEPER!! It's going into the rotation! Some things I was pleasantly surprised by:

- I didn't gag or want to puke from eating the peppers
- cabbage steaks are pretty much the BOMB
- the whole meal was EXTREMELY filling

If you are feeling adventurous and ready to try something new I highly recommend stepping out of your comfort zone and giving this meal a shot! Isn't that what life is about?!.....stepping out of your COMFORT ZONE!!! Nothing good ever comes from constantly being safe!! Enjoy the rest of your weekend! It's VINO time here! Muahhh!!! XO


STUFFED PEPPERS

Ingredients:

4 peppers (I used a variety pack of colors)
2 tsp Olive Oil
1 small onion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 pound ground turkey
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp Himalayan salt
1/4 tsp ground pepper
1 cup of tomato sauce
2 cups of cooked quinoa
1 can black beans drained
1 can of corn drained
1 cup of colby ja
1 cup of colby jack cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375

2. Saute onion in a little olive oil

3. Add turkey and the spices including the salt and pepper

4. Cut the tops off the peppers and and clean out insides (thankfully hubby was home for this part...)

5. Once turkey mixture is cooked add tomato sauce, quinoa, beans and corn

6. Fill each pepper with mixture. (I did have mixture left over and we just put it in a container in fridge to use for wraps this week)

7. Cover and bake for 35 minutes.

8. Uncover, sprinkle tops with cheese and cook an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.



HONEY BALSAMIC ROASTED CABBAGE STEAKS

1/2 head of green cabbage cut into 1/2 inch thick slices

3 tbsps of olive oil

3/4 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tsp honey

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and brush a rimmed baking sheet with olive oil

2. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar and honey in a bowl

3. Arrange cabbage slices in a single layer on baking sheet and brush with honey balsamic vinegar mixture. Season with salt & pepper

4. Roast until cabbage slices are tender and edges are golden (25 - 30 mins)

Coffee Talk the 3 Years In... edition

Sooo loves it won't be the normal Coffee Talk! Sorry! I've got toooo many thoughts to get out so we are changing it up today! My head is overflowing with thoughts and emotions. Well yesterday marked 3 full years here. I still can NOT believe it. I can't believe it because there have been DEFINITE moments I did NOT think I was going to make it here. There are STILL moments I don't think I can survive one more FREAKING day!! I've had definite bumps where I almost spiraled right down into a deep depression again, moments where I CRIED uncontrollably, moments where I felt lost, hopeless and flat out miserable.

I can't sugar coat this because I don't want to make my life appear all happy go lucky and then I'm over here dangling by a thread. That's not fair. I know because EVERY SINGLE DAY I see it on facebook and other social media - people portraying this fabulous life when in reality their life may not be so fab. Bottom line, I'm just getting by until we can get out.

Have I had some good times here? Absolutely
Have I LOVED getting to spend time with family? Yes
Have we made memories here? Yep
Have I met some incredible people? oh for sure
Have I found the most Ah-mazing clients? Heck Yeah

I don't mean ANY disrespect to those who love and adore it here. I get it. I feel that SAME passion for Arizona. All I know is I yearn for that sunshine, for that heat, for the landscape, for the lifestyle, for all that beauty in general. It's been a trying time for our WHOLE family these last couple months. Each of us is struggling in our own way.

All I can do is slap a smile on, stay positive and BELIEVE that there are bigger, better things coming our way. For now I will do my best and focus on making the best of it. I will keep working on my personal development, meditation, working out and lots of other relaxation techniques to better my inner self. For those who have been there thru the tears these last few weeks you have made more of an impact on me than you will EVER know. I am forever grateful.

First and foremost and what will NEVER change is my little family....we are the MOST important thing! We will ALWAYS come first before anything else and we will ALWAYS do what is BEST for us. Life is soooo extremely short. If you are unhappy, figure out what is making you unhappy and change it. If you need a career change, take the plunge - update your resume and get out there. If you are in a relationship that doesn't bring you at LEAST 95% happiness....maybe it's time to walk away. You deserve to be happy!!! If you don't like where you live.....MOVE! (hey, I'm working on this, but it takes time!) Whatever it may be don't just let it destroy you....make a change. Even if it takes baby steps...baby steps are better than NO STEPS!

Will this be the last countdown of being here? Who knows. Who knows what tomorrow will bring, but for now I will just keep swimming and making memories and capturing even more memories for my wonderful clients!!  Have a FABULOUS weekend!!! XO

Peanut Butter Overnight Oats

Ok first off let me start by saying I have been OOBER skeptical of these things since I've seen them floating around the Internet and even my challenge groups! I've wanted to try them for a seriously LONG time and I'm soooo happy I did!! They were totally DELISH! Here's my little "disclaimer" however......if you are making them thinking by some MIRACLE you are going to wake to some super fab oatmeal...FORGET it! These aren't for you! They are NOT the consistency of oatmeal and if actual oatmeal is what you are craving then problem stick to good old fashioned oatmeal. What I LOVED about these is how different they tasted and the little peanut buttery surprise you would get with each bite!!! The beautiful thing about these is you can make sooooo many different combinations! My daughter had blueberry almond and that one was fantastic too. So give these a try and see what your taste buds think. I know for me I am LOVING the quick, ready to go breakfast on the days I go into work early AND with the added BONUS that they seriously make me feel full QUICK! :)

Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/2 cup steel cut oats (you could also use regular old fashioned oats, I just prefer the steel cut)
2 tbsp natural peanut butter
1 tbsp sliced almonds
1 tbsp chia seeds

12 oz mason jar or even the next size down (I did NOT have smaller mason jars so I had to improvise and use my big salad ones until I go to the store this weekend! They worked fine, they just looked wimpy! LOL)

Mix all the ingredients together in a mason jar, put the lid on and pop them into the fridge! In the morning pull it out, I suggest trying it cold first and if you don't like it cold pop it into the microwave for about 40-50 seconds. I do prefer it warmed a bit when I have the peanut butter in there...the melt-iness of the peanut butter makes me HAPPY! (yep, I made that word up!)

Coffee Talk!!

Seriously...how does Thursday come sooooo quick!!!??? Here we go....get sipping!

4 Random Thoughts:

1. Is winter OVER yet? Ugh. DONE...just done. No further explanation is really needed. ;)

2. Starting to book some sessions and it feels FABULOUS! I am ready to get behind my lens and start capturing beautiful images for wonderful clients! If you are interested in a spring session go ahead and message me and we will get you on the books!!! :)

3. So extremely GRATEFUL for all the wonderful new friends that I have met thru my Beach Body team!!! Each week we do a team call and this week was especially needed to lift me up but was also a reminder of how life can bring the most unexpected people into your life. LOVE my team!!!

4. Have been struggling with a MAJOR funk! So many emotions as we head towards the end of February which will mark 3 years of us living here. I am doing ALL that I can to stay above slipping into that downward spiral but it's definitely a challenge. I think one of the MAJOR contributors to me staying afloat is I know that I have coaches and challengers who depend on me so I can't just curl up in a ball and cry. (I would LOVE to, but I can't....I have definitely cried these last 2 weeks especially but I've refrained from going into fetal position yet) So I keep trudging ahead making sure to get my workout in, eat as well as I can, keep reading my personal development and surrounding myself with those who love me. I'm definitely going to be hitting the meditation book some more. Again...this is life - the good. the bad. the ugly.

Ok loves! I'm off to work and it's my FRI-YAY plus it's national drink WINE day!!! Hellllloooo that's my FAVORITE holiday!!! XO

Coffee Talk!

Let's not beat around the bush.....It is Thursday after all!!!!

5 Random Thoughts:

1 - Why must white stuff fall from the sky and make me cry?  (you like that...poet and I didn't even know it!!) No seriously, yes, YES, yeeeeesssssss I totally get we didn't have that "bad" of a winter and blah blah blah! I don't care! I HATE winter's guts! Mature? No! Done with it? YES! Gripping the steering wheel while driving home and my tires spinning do NOT equal FUN....it does however equal LOTS of foul language spewing from my mouth!!!!  Rant over.

2 - I've kind of had a rough few weeks. Lots of personal crap going on but the upside to ALL of that is that if I wasn't on this journey and I wasn't coaching I would be handling ALL of this a heck of a lot differently and NOT for the better. I know everything happens for a reason and whatever is meant to be will be so I just need to keep that in mind and hold that close to my heart. For now I'm just feeling truly grateful for Beach Body and all that it has given me internally!!!

3 - So my little guy REALLY struggles with school....Math in particular!!! In his defense Common Core is just a bunch of BS!!! I can't even do the problems so how the heck is he supposed to?! Anywho, long story short we've been working with the school closely and getting him EXTRA help. He is a SENSITIVE guy to say the least and he really holds on to all of his emotions until they are eating him up so we have been focusing on lots of POSITIVE reinforcement etc. It all paid off so far! He brought his D last marking period up to a B this marking period!!!! Serious PROUD MOM over here! We took him out on Saturday to celebrate. A couple hours in Barnes & Noble, Starbucks for a double chocolate chip frap and lunch out with Mom & Dad!!! SCORE!!! BTW, does anyone else DESPISE Common Core??!!!

4 - My surprise off the wall purchase this past weekend was a book on beginning Meditation!!!! I know, CRA-ZZZZYYYY! However I have been intrigued for some time and I don't do the whole religion thing (nothing against it for those who do, no judgement here, it's just not MY thing!) but I definitely feel like my journey is of a spiritual nature. Being at peace with myself & my life in general. To be mindful and aware. So here goes nothing! I started reading and it's super interesting but I have not yet attempted to do it. I will keep you posted on this new endeavor for sure!

5 - T - Minus 1 day until the Bestie crew gets here!!!! Eeeeekkkk!!! Who better to spend Valentine's Day weekend with than that super funky bunch?! Friday night chilling with vino and laughs and Saturday reservations at the FABULOUS Honey restaurant! I don't care how cold it's going to be this weekend, we will be guaranteed fun....so BRING IT! Happy Valentine's Day!!!!

That's all for now! I have a shoot tomorrow, so stay tuned for a peek with some majorly adorable girls!!! Other than that stay warm and have a fabulous weekend!!!! XO

Chocolate AVOCADO Brownies...say WHAT?!!!

Ok so EVEN the name of these are FREAKING me out a bit I'll be completely HONEST!!! LOL! (though I am a HUGE avocado lover!!!) However, I have seen these floating around the internet and they definitely PEAKED my interest and today was THE DAY! I was out doing my meal prep shopping and was having a pretty SERIOUS yearning for CHOCOLATE but not for my lovely hard chocolate cups I make, but for something soft and CHEWY!!!! On my quest to a healthier lifestyle I am choosing to make GOOD choices rather than picking up the Reese's Peanut Butter cup and downing that baby in .3 seconds!!! So I thought what better day to try these little beauties out than TODAY! No time like the present and what's the worst that could happen....I will HATE them?!!! Big DEAL!  (this is part of my new 12 step program...LOL..ok, fine I'm exaggerating but I'm trying hard not to give a CRAP anymore about little things...me liking this chocolate brownie is a LITTLE thing!)

Anywhooooooo, they were quick, easy and completely vegan if that fits who you are right now! They definitely filled my chocolate obsession craving I was having today!!! I really LOVED them! Give them a shot and see what you think!!! They definitely satisfied my sweet tooth today!!! Happy Sunday loves!!!! XO


Excuse the phone pics and the finished pic that already had brownies MISSING!!! These peeps are QUICK!!! ;)

Ingredients:

1/4 cup mashed or pureed avocado
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 cup whole wheat flour or all purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup cane sugar or granulated sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup water
1 1/2 cups vegan dark or semi sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8" square pan with cooking spray.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the avocado & olive oil until smooth.  Add in the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, salt and water. Stir until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of the chocolate chips.

3. Pour into the prepared pan and spread batter evenly. Sprinkle with an additional 1/2 cup of chocolate chips on top. Bake for 20 - 25 minutes (this will vary depending on your oven so kind of watch them closely)

4. Remove and let brownies sit out for AT LEAST 20 minutes before serving. Cut, cover and store for up to 3 days.

ENJOY!!!

UPDATE: These were a MILLION times better the second day AFTER being kept in the fridge when I took one to work!!! Highly recommend storing them in the fridge!!! Ahhhh I can NOT stop eating these!!! LOL!

Coffee Talk!

Hellllooooo!!! Back to our normal GRIND!!!!

4 Random Thoughts:

1 -  Bottom line...we are ALL human. We ALL get in funks. We ALL have bad days/weeks/months. Mine was last week. I think I spent ALL day Friday crying. Like a blubbering, sobbing mess. Ya know what? I needed that. I needed that to snap my ass back into reality and make me see what I have in front of me. No, it's NOT this beautiful picture I imagine in my head but it's where I'm at RIGHT now and I have to put on my big girl panties and pour a glass of wine oops, (slip of the fingers there or rather GREAT advice from a dear friend) deal with it. Don't EVER let anyone tell you how you "should" feel. Your feelings are your feelings and until they have walked a DAY in your shoes...SHUT it!! End rant. Positive silver lining - after the mascara was done running and a few good talks with the bestie and some important peeps in my life, I'm on the upside of the down ward spiral. I can't stay down forever....my wine glass will miss being filled!

2 - The Blizzard from 2 weeks ago. No words but probably part contributor in the above melt down. That is all. (except snow if I EVER see you again it will be toooooooooooooo soon!)

3 - Then there are the moments that you receive messages from COMPLETE strangers telling you how you inspired them to do something or that you have changed their life. YES, universe I am listening and I am pushing on because I absolutely LOVE helping people. It's moments like those that I am soooo super duper grateful I took the chance on coaching and didn't let what others thought of me influence my decision. (As for coaching...I am growing my tribe Fierce Mind Brave Spirit...if you think you would like to help others on their journey, message me so we can chat....of course we will have a cup of coffee while we do it, don't be silly! )

4 - My health fitness update. Hammer & Chisel.....LOVE!!! I'm on my 4th week and am definitely seeing results which is super EXCITING to me! I am really proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone and doing this program which TERRIFIED me before! Oh in other fitness news, I am doing a 5 day Shakeology challenge for anyone who has been interested but isn't quite ready to make the investment/commitment yet for fear that they may not LIKE shakeology. If you have been contemplating it at ALL, message me! I would love to let you in so you can see what all the HYPE is about and so you too could fall in LOVE with the superfood salad in a cup!!! ;)

That's it lovelies....that is ALL for today! I have a couple shoots coming up so I'm about to be a crazy lady! (how is that different you ask...you're right it's not! But that's why you LOVE me!)
Have a fabulous weekend! XO

Challenge Group Misconceptions & the TRUTH!

Alright loves so out and about in the glass half empty world I have heard some rumblings of WHY people are afraid of Challenge groups!! I think there are some SERIOUS misconceptions so I am here to give you the down & dirty:

- It's a PRIVATE group, what you post in there NO ONE else in FB world can see. Seriously no ONE will know that you had a crap day except the other people in the group who are on this SAME journey as you! It's a judgement FREE zone!!!

- It's NO PRESSURE! If you don't get your workout in or you eat a chip NO ONE is going to come hunt you down and pummel your ass! Well unless you want me to, of course...then I will hop on the nearest plane because some of you lovelies don't live close enough for me to come pummel!! ;)

- You don't have to be outgoing and talkative....there are plenty of people who LOVE the group for the motivation, inspiration, recipe ideas etc, but never say a WORD. (like seriously NO WORDS GIVEN) However they LOVE all that they personally are getting from the groups regardless. Shy, Loud, Outgoing, Quiet....we LOVE you all! Obviously the more interaction in a group the better BUT no one is forcing you to talk.

- If you are in a group it does NOT mean you have to post about it on your PERSONAL FB page and post pictures of you working out etc. No one from outside the group even needs to know you are in a group if you don't want them to. Have NO FEAR, your assignment will NOT be to plaster your FB wall about all that you are doing...unless YOU want to. Then hell, do it up! ;)

- You do NOT have to be a FITNESS freak! If this is your first time really working out....KUDOS to you! That is AWESOME! Everyone has to take the first step to working out and this is yours! Reason 1,566,444, 268 I LOVE these workouts - for the MODIFIER!!! She's in there...use her!

- You do NOT have to work out for HOURS!! This program works for me because most of these workouts are 30 - 35 minutes and honestly for ME that's all the time I can spare. I get it, we are all very busy nowadays. We are moms, we work full time, part time, we are the personal chef of the house, the maid, the taxi driver, the grocery shopper...you name it, we WEAR the hat!  30 - 35 minutes for your mind, body and soul are completely worth it and you will be a BETTER everything for everyone especially yourself!

- You don't have to leave your home!! This is the other HUGE upside for me because I used to make up EVERY excuse in the book of why I couldn't drive my butt to the gym. No more of that...roll out of bed, go downstairs, push play! BOOM! Done! Little secret/tip - I SLEEP in my workout clothes because that's how EASY I want to make it for myself to NOT give one more excuse of why I can't work out! Best decision I ever made!

- You don't have time to be on FB all the time...well you are in LUCK! You only have to "check-in" once a day to get the benefits of the group! Sometimes there are little tidbits of recipes and tips posted thru out the day, but you get tagged so you can see them and then it's over. Take what you want out of the group!

What a challenge group does provide:

- Motivation
- Inspiration
- New Friendships
- Recipes
- Accountability
- Support
- Clean Eating Tips
- Meal Planning help
- A New FRESH ATTITUDE
- So much MORE!!!

I hope that answered some questions and cleared up any fears you may have had. It's never easy to make the decision to change but you are so worth it. Your health, your body, your mind...all of it! Take time and take a chance on YOU! 2016 is your YEAR! #theresstilltime #coachlife
If this helped squash some of the reasons that have been holding you back...AWESOME! Fill out the attached application to get in on my next Challenge Group that starts February 15th! XO

https://melaniebostian.wufoo.com/forms/challenge-group-application/

Coffee Talk! 14 Things .....

Coffee Talk Time!!! Let's have some weirdness FUN today!! 14 things you may or MAY NOT know about me....you ready?! Let's do this!!


1. I am a TOTAL romantic! I LOVE planning date nights whether it's at home or going out somewhere.

2. I lived 11 years in Florida, 6 years in Arizona and am currently back in PA. (yes, I DESPISE the cold & snow, that is all)

3. I have had an array of jobs that I think have really helped make me a well rounded person ~

• Marketing Assistant
• Interior Design Assistant (hellllloooo, this could be why I HEART HGTV so much!)
• Preschool Classroom Aide
• A Curves Fitness Coach

   Sit down for this last one......WAIT for it:

• Lowes Home Store in the Flooring Department!!! (are you having a hard time picturing PRISSY me at Lowes in the red vest?! ;) LOL, no worries I did too!!! Actually I really enjoyed that job, met some great people and it took me back to my design roots, which I LOVED! It also was the trigger to help get me OUT of the house after moving back to PA and being completely depressed.

4. I have high blood pressure (I know, I know, I don't fit the mold for that either, but hell would you expect anything less from me at this point) High to the point that the Dr told me if I wasn't doing what I'm doing eating & fitness wise I would be a walking Stroke! What the?! (so that is one of my BIG reasons that I started this healthy lifestyle journey and am grateful every single day for it)

5. I have never EVER smoked a day in my life! I joke that I wouldn't even know what to do with one and I'm at peace with it! LOL! I don't feel like I "missed" out on trying anything and I see how hard it is for people to quit so I'm actually happy that is something I never started.

6. I adore WINE! (go ahead roll your eyes!) The HUGE misconception everyone has however is that I drink A LOT!!! Um, I'm ALL talk and no ACTION! I enjoy a nice glass of wine with a good dinner or while I am watching one of my guilty pleasure shows but it very RARELY goes past ONE single glass! I'm a light weight my loves, sorry to disappoint!

7.  I have an AH-MAZING 15 year old daughter who is seriously like my mini bestie. I couldn't imagine my life without her. (this of course doesn't mean we don't have the trials and tribulations of the teen years, but I know I got pretty lucky with her)

8. I have the sweetest, most compassionate 11 year old son. Every day I think how he is going to be an amazing husband for some lucky lady some day!

9. I DESPISE sneakers OR tennis shoes (depending on which coast you live on) I know, I get it, this is NOT normal for someone who is into fitness.

10. I workout barefoot most of the time because of the above ^ reason! (told you things would get weird)

11. I am a complete, total GIRLY GIRL!!!! Sparkle everything...YES, Please!

12. My dream is go to go to Italy with my camera and just enjoy it all while sipping on good wine.

13. I started trying to relax more and make my office space very ZEN and I am totally DIGGING it!!
     ~hello coloring books for meditation
     ~essential oils
     ~himalayan salt lamp
   

14. I definitely suffer from social anxiety disorder. If we are in a setting with a large group of people that I don't know or even just going to a busy restaurant or bar I will NOT be the first to walk in. Let that be your warning if we ever dine together....you are walking in first and if we have to find our own table FORGET it...I will break out into a FULL sweat!!! I think this is why I LOVE being a photographer because I can HIDE behind my camera!!!

Ok, those are all the secrets I could share with you today!!!! I don't want to completely BORE you to death!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you for sticking with me! Love you all!!! XO

Salmon with Brown Sugar & SPICE!

Soooo today was CRAP!!! (isn't that a DELIGHTFUL way to start a post with a recipe!!??) Sorry. It just was. I got home from work and needed something to throw together SUPER QUICK!!! I had been wanting to try this for some time so I figured there's NO time like the present!!! It seriously was EASY, PEASY and FAST! Total time between prep and cook....um, a mere 20 MINUTES!!! What the?! SIGN me up!!! I am all about a fast dinner on days that I work.

The other fabulous TID BIT....the family LOVED it!! That's always a concern when I decide to make something I have NEVER EVER made before.....Will the crew like it? Or will it be a BIG FLOP!!! Proud to say...this was a KEEPER!!!! If you are a salmon lover and like the whole sweet/spicy mix, give this a try!!!! Let me know how you like it! OK, now I'm off to guzzle enjoy a glass of vino to end this day! No worries, tomorrow is a NEW day and hopefully I will have a better one!!!! ;)  XO

Ingredients:

1/2 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
4 - salmon fillets

1. Preheat the oven to 400 Degrees and line a baking sheet with foil and spray with olive oil or some other non stick spray.

2. In a small bowl, mix together all of the spices and sugar.

3. Put the salmon on the baking sheet and divide the spice mix evenly between each of the fillets, coating them completely.

4. Bake for 10 - 15 minutes depending on the thickness.

ENJOY!!!

Turkey Taco Mason Jar Salads!!

Welllll heellllooo scrumptious, EASY lunches to go!!!! Why did I wait so LONG to try you?!
Ok, so these have been floating around my challenge groups for the last few months and I can't really give a good explanation of why I didn't try them I'm LAZY. LOL! So maybe I was a little LAZY on the meal prep biz but the point is in turning over my new leaf this year I am doing ALL sorts of things I NEVER did before and that there my loves is PROGRESS!! No such thing as PERFECTION! Progress is where it's AT! Anywhooooo enough let's get to the important stuff just in case you are FAMISHED!

So these are SIMPLE to make and last for about 4 days in the fridge when they are in the sealed glass mason jars. (some have lasted longer for others)  The key is to make sure you have ALL of the wet ingredients at the bottom and end with your crispy lettuce at the top.

Now basically you can make these with whatever you like. My family is not huge on tomatoes so I didn't even bother and my daughter is vegetarian so you know damn well she's not touching ground turkey!! ;)  So I modified to fit my family and feel free to do that with yours as well.

Ingredients:

- ground turkey
- ground cumin, chili powder, himalayan sea salt, garlic & pepper (these are all by PERSONAL preference of how much spice you like)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- avocado chopped up
- black beans, drained & rinsed
- tomato

Now basically after you have cooked your ground meat with the above spices I had everything out in bowls on my counter to make it easy like an assembly line.  Start with your meat, then the beans, the quinoa, avocado, tomato and then top with lettuce packed in there and seal with your lid! Presto!!!
(for Fixers I filled per the container guidelines except for my daughter's where I doubled up on the beans and quinoa for her)

If you are someone who needs/likes dressing on your salad you can do Frank's Red Hot Sauce or I decided to try plain greek yogurt mixed with the Frank's Red Hot Sauce for a creamier taste.

***So I really wanted to be able to tell you how I liked them, but I will get on here tonight and give you my honest review! I was just tooooo EXCITED not to share with you right away! ;)

Coffee Talk!

Let's get pouring my pretties!!! :)

5 Random Thoughts: 

1 - Um yeah, I DID NOT in any way shape or FORM miss WINTER weather! Blahhhhh!!! My drive home from work the other night = NOT FUN! If you think white knuckling and screaming profanities is wonderful then yes, you are a TWISTED person!!! ;) LOL! I absolutely detest it! I was sliding all over the road and almost got in an accident. I'm ready for the warm Christmas weather that everyone else was complaining about!!!!! Ha!  Rant over.

2 - Why do people like to tear other people down? Or maybe it's just that there are soooo many people who are unhappy with themselves they don't want others to be happy. Come on now peeps. If you want to be miserable that's one thing. Be happy for those of us who are changing our lives whether YOU agree with it or not. Wow....Rant #2 over. 

3 - I have become FULL BLOWN addicted to Gossip Girl thanks to my lovely teen daughter!!!! Ok fine, I secretly LOVE that we are binge watching this series together because I completely HEART getting to spend any quality time with her. I've said it before and I'll say it again....it goes FAST so I'm soaking up every second I can get with her! But really this show is FAB!!!! The bummer is she will only let us do 2 episodes at a time and sometimes that is just NOT enough!!

4 - So I am doing a challenge against MYSELF!!!! Hardcore, I know! No seriously. I am doing a water challenge!!! I KNOW how absolutely amazing water is for you in general and when I'm sweating HOT I have no problem whatsoever drinking it but now that it's COLD it's a challenge. I think I found something to help me along besides my super cute water bottle. The little tiny 10 oz mini bottles!!!! Wooo hooo!!! The other day at work I sucked down 5 of those babies!!! Maybe it's because they are small and it looks like a smaller amount so it's less intimidating? I'm not sure, whatever the reason I'll take it. I will check back with you and let you know how it is going. 

5 - My new Hammer & Chisel workout started on Monday! That beeeooochhh is NO JOKE!!!! OMG! I am super duper proud of myself but my body doesn't know what hit it!! In a good way. I LOVE the feeling of being sore in places that haven't been sore before. Summer body is being built now...BOOM!!!! (um yeah because we all know I LOVE to parade around in a bathing suit!) LOL! Whatever, don't be mean, I just like to feel toned and good about myself IN my clothes. :) My new challengers are kicking some serious BOOTY too! If you have NEVER been in a challenge group and you are interested in finding out more about what one entails....totally MESSAGE me!!! My team is doing a SNEAK PEEK into CHALLENGE GROUPS!! Totally free, no obligation but if you have been on the fence because quite frankly you were scared about what freakishly horrible things happen to you in these groups...(KIDDING!!!!)  don't know what to expect from one, this sneak peek is PERFECT for you!!!! 

Alright you AMAZING peeps! That is it for today!!!! (oh and because I don't LOVE to rant and rave....Sorry about the RANTS today!) XO

Update: Happy to report I kicked my creamer habit and NEVER looked back since the day I made my homemade creamer!! Just another lesson...we CAN do so much more than we think we are capable of!

3 Ingredient PEANUT BUTTER CUPS!!!

Sit down chocolate LOVERS!!! Seriously I absolutely LOVE, like ADORE Reese's Peanut Butter Cups!!! So when I was introduced to this recipe in one of my Challenge Groups it's like the Chocolate Gods were looking down on me!!!!!
Super Duper EASY and totally scrumptious!!!

Give them a try and let me know how you like them! (I did not have a mini muffin pan for these but I wanted to see how I liked them so I just did 4 regular size)

Ingredients:

4 Tbsp of Coconut Oil
8 Tbsp Chocolate Shakeology
4 tsp natural Peanut Butter

1. Place 2 Tbsp of Coconut Oil in a microwave safe bowl and cook for 30 seconds or until oil is liquified. (Mine was more like 40 seconds)

2. Stir in 4 Tbsp of the Chocolate Shakeology.  Divide this mixture evenly between 8 spots in a mini muffin tin. Place tin in freezer for 5 minutes.

3. Pull the muffin tin out of the freezer. Place a 1/2 tsp of peanut butter on top of each chocolate spot. Spread the peanut butter over evenly with a knife. (mine kept popping out of the tray when I was spreading so I found it easier to just hold it in my hand, spread it and then put it back in the tray.)

4. Melt the remaining 2 Tbsp of Coconut Oil in the microwave. (You want to do this AFTER you pull your tin out of the freezer and do the peanut butter step because you don't want it to harden on you while you are waiting for that first layer of chocolate to harden.)  Stir in the remaining 4 Tbsp of Chocolate Shakeology. Use this to pour on top of the Peanut Butter layer.

5. Place the muffin tin back in the freezer until hard and then slide them out pop them into a ziploc bag and store them in the freezer!!!!

Voila!!! A quick YUMMY chocolate treat!!!!

Dryer Balls!!!

Ok you know I LOVE to share with you when I find something that I heart! Yep, here's my newest addition.....Dryer Balls!!!!! What the hell are those you ask??  They are wool balls made of upcycled sweaters that will do the following:

- reduce the time it takes to dry your clothes....helloooo money saver right there
- fluff and soften
- reduce the static

Ohhhhh and the BEST partS.........................NO CHEMICALS and you can use your lovely new essential oils (that I know you all ran out and bought, so don't even try it!) on them!!!

No but seriously! I got some Lavender and all you do is use a couple of drops on them and throw all 3 in with your laundry!!!! Voila!!! Your laundry and laundry room smell HEAVENLY and you used something natural and healthy for your family!!! BOOM!

I LOVE the little online store I got them from and here is the link to it. They have other great stuff as well. I may or may not have picked up a home made soap....Frankincense and Oat!!!! YUM!!! If you are local to me let them know that you are from this area and you won't pay for shipping. She will meet you somewhere local....um ya know like where she met me for our "deal" to go down - STARBUCKS!!!!  (surprised aren't you!?)

Just my 2 cents! I have been using them and they are FABULOUS!!!! Give them a try if you are looking for an alternative!!! XO

Coffee Talk!

Ohhhh so did you think I would REALLY kick my coffee habit on my journey to healthy??!!!! Um heck NO!!!! ;) Grab yours and let's get chatting!

5 Random Thoughts:

1 - Seriously....my new creamer is LIFE CHANGING! Ok, fine...is that a little dramatic? But seriously for this girl it is!!! I had MAJOR stomach issues from what I thought was only god knows what. I was concerned that something in the food I was eating was not agreeing with my stomach!!! That was actually making me nervous because I didn't even want to THINK about having to do an elimination diet!!! I am almost 2 weeks in on my new homemade chemical free creamer and I'm like a new lady!!!!! No stomach issues, well except for 2 days ago when I was STUPID and had a Starbucks latte. I think I need to try those with the coconut milk that they offer now because I was HURTING after that! Who knew that the love of my life, the IV to my whole being, my little cup of happiness was one of the culprits ALL. ALONG? Thankfully I don't have to get rid of coffee altogether. Phew!  If you didn't see the recipe for the creamer...here it is!

2 -  2016!? Really, already! We had such a FUN New Year's Eve! Laughed until I almost (I said ALMOST) peed my pants! (don't judge...you pop out 2 kids and let me know how your bladder is!) We played Cards Against Humanity! If you haven't played that game go ahead and dig yourself out from under that rock and PLAY! (I say that with LOVE) Ok, unless you are a SUPER, SERIOUS, CLEAN person...um, then do NOT play that game....RUN for your life!!! ;) Thrilled that we surrounded ourselves with some of the BEST to bring in the New year!

3 - Isn't life weird? That alone was a WEIRD statement! ;) No but really. Look at the people who come in and out of your life? Or the paths you cross with people you have met or that know people you know. It's makes you sit and think how REALLY REALLY SMALL this world is!!! Or you think about the decisions you made. "If I didn't do that, this wouldn't of happened" or "If I did this, I wouldn't have met so and so"...yep, it happens regularly. I'm going to soak up the happy parts of those and keep them close and example of one of mine - If we didn't move to PA, I wouldn't have met my bestie (who lives in NJ, but we lived ACROSS the street from her brother when we lived in AZ - yeah, WEIRD, but BEST thing that could have happened!) You're welcome, I just wanted to give you something to really work your brain for today!

4 - Starting to book for SPRING for photography!!!! I am thoroughly enjoying my time off but can't wait to get my camera snapping again. (I am doing newborns thru the winter though so if you or someone you know is pregnant definitely message me so I can get in on those squishy little cuddles!) Otherwise let me know if you are wanting a session once our weather turns from cold TUNDRA to beautiful flowers and sunlight!

5 - My challengers in my current groups are kicking some serious A**!!!! These peeps are ready to conquer their goals for 2016!!! So much heart and passion and I LOVE seeing the interaction between people who didn't even know each other before these groups but they are helping each other nonetheless. It gives hope that there are still good people out there who aren't constantly hoping & wishing for someone to FAIL! In other BIG Beach BODY news....my team is officially a TOP 5 TEAM in all of the network!!! What the WHAT?!!! It blows me away that I was so hesitant to start coaching, so hesitant to keep pursuing it and yet it's been a total life changer for me!! Cheers to helping others on their journey to happy & healthy!!!!

Well loves, I have talked your ears off today so I am going to wrap this up!!!! If I haven't told you lately.....I heart you ALL so much for following me and my little journey via this little space in the BIG old world of the internet!! I have the BEST clients & challengers EVER!!! If you get a moment go ahead and follow me on here and stay up to date with all my shenanigans!!! ;)  XO

Zen Changes for a New Me!

Hello loves! As you all know I've been on a journey to a new lifestyle and a new ME for about a year now and it was by far the BEST decision I have ever made. I'm happier, healthier, more positive and just generally a better person to be around. That being said there are STILL days that I feel BLAH, that I am sooooo insanely homesick for AZ that nothing can pull me out of my FUNK or that I'm just having a bad day. Guess what? I'm human. Life is NOT perfect and although you can make all of these lifestyle changes to help you, you will still have "those" days because that is LIFE!!!! Anyone who has a PERFECTLY perfect life, um, has to either be on something really good or is just flat out lying. ;)

So in my quest to help achieve a more zen environment in our home and for a more peaceful, serenity filled space I have been making some additions. For those who know me really, really well you know that my son really suffers from anxiety. And although it gives me many "cute" stories for lunch break at work, I do worry about him as he gets older because he can worry about something that happened 2+ years ago. (the boy has a really STRONG conscience, which I do love because he is truly a good person) However, no one should have so much worry in them that they make themselves sick, have stomach aches, headaches, can't sleep etc. etc.

Last year I invested in a himalayan salt lamp which you can read about here. And I LOVE that little guy and still use it EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. I feel it was a great addition to my office space. If you have been contemplating getting one, I highly recommend it! So recently I was invited to an essential oil party and I really couldn't WAIT to go because I have been very interested, intrigued and probably a little skeptical as well (you know I like to be honest) but wanted to see what they were ALL about. YEP completely SOLD!!!! It was so informative and anything that could help without the help of doctors and drugs I am ALL for! (not that there isn't a time and place for those things but I've just personally had my fair share of doctors this past year so in my quest for doing more natural things for my family this is one of the routes I'm choosing to try)

I am totally hooked and although the initial investment is a little pricey, I truly feel like they will be worth it. I did start off small however and am going to be building from here. I got 3 ultrasonic diffusers and chose Frankincense to diffuse since one of it's popular uses is for it's emotional benefits (from anxiety & depression to helping induce a feeling of calm, relaxation and peace). We have been using them for about a week now and everyone is really enjoying them. They do light up and change colors which I find to be very soothing as well.  The nice thing is there are soooo many other uses for Frankincense which include using it on skin burns, cuts, rashes. It can be used on your face for healthy cell regeneration so some use it for wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. Some even use it to help soothe aches and pains away. It's seriously crazy at how MANY different benefits all of these different oils have. If you are thinking about trying them out GO FOR IT!!! If you are already using them I would LOVE to hear what your favorites are and if you have concocted any fabulous blends!

That's it for today! I will say this new way of living seriously brings a sense of calm to you and I for one am ALL for that!!! I will definitely be doing a follow up post in a few months to let you know if we feel the oils have truly helped our family after having used them for awhile.  Have a fabulous day!!! XO

Here is a picture of the one I got and a sample of the color changing! :)

Bye Bye Chemical Filled Creamer!!!!

Happy New Year!!! So my FIRST big step for this new year was my decision to say good bye to my BELOVED Cinnamon Bun & Pumpkin Spice Creamers!!! I swear I still get heart palpitations even thinking about it. However, one of my goals for this year is to work on being even healthier & happier so I knew it was time to take the PLUNGE!! Those who know me REALLY well know that the love affair that I had with my creamer was not even up for discussion in my challenge groups!!! I made it CRYSTAL clear that I would NOT give them up for anything. Well then I started working more on ME and what is best to be putting into my body and if you ever sat and REALLY looked at those creamer labels and the ingredient list......um, yeah, you would be freaking SCARED!

There are soooooo many chemicals and un-natural CRAP in them. So long story short I started researching making my own and tweaked a few recipes until I found one that worked best for me. Now, I will start by saying if you are trying to replicate your current creamer down to the texture, color etc. nope this is NOT going to do that. It's now quite as "creamy" as those thick, fake creamers are, but I'm almost a week in and I haven't DIED yet from missing it and surprisingly I am still loving my cup of java! I knew a HUGE test was letting Hayley try it and see what she thought and she LOVED it immediately. Anywhoooooo, here's what I'm doing. It's a HUGE, GIANT step for me but I will say that my stomach is feeling 100% better since making the switch so that alone is worth it for me. Give it a try if you are on the fence about giving up your favorite creamer for something a little "better" for you. :)

Cinnamon Swirl Creamer

Ingredients:

1 can of coconut milk (I did try this with the carton first and did not like it as much so I switched to the can)
8 tbsp of maple syrup (you can add or subtract according to your taste)
Cinnamon (I did not measure this, just use to your taste, you can also switch this out to pumpkin pie spice if you want something different)

Add all of them to a bowl and beat with an electric mixer for a few minutes until it's well blended. Pour into a glass container and keep in the fridge. (It will last for as long as your expiration date on your coconut milk)

UPDATE: Coconut milk is VERY temp sensitive. I found in the colder temps we have been having that it was clumping up even when I mixed it. On cold days I now heat it in a small sauce pan on low for a couple minutes and then beat the ingredients together. :)