Cleanse {Starting Stats}

Some motivation:

I'm letting it all hang out here. Ok not really, but I'm going to be pretty open and honest with my stats.  Why? I hope to inspire someone and I know that I will never be this weight again! [unless by some crazy chance we conceive a third child, but I reallllllly don't see that happening!]  SO as unhappy that my jeans still don't fit, I am not having a pity party--I am taking my health back and getting back on track.  This is what I look like when I don't eat "clean" 80% of the time, don't take products, and don't workout.

9 weeks postpartum, boy my belly just loves hanging onto that baby fat.  And my booty needs some lifting--thank goodness for all the squats!  Crazy thing, is I know I've weighed 155 before I've had kids--but my body did not look like this.  Obviously.  Either way, this is not a happy weight, even though I've already lost 40 pounds of baby weight, I know my body feels best (and fits into clothes nicely) in the 140s.  Before I got pregnant I was 137.  It didn't happen in one challenge--it took several and lots of months of working out, eating well and staying on products.

bust 39
waist 40.5
hips 41
left thigh 23
right thigh 23
right calf 14.5
left calf 14.5
left bicep 12
right bicep 12
neck 12.5 {yes, my neck. I swear I will lose weight there! ha}

Wake up 7:30: Spark, Catty
8:00 Fiber drink and a glass of water

Meal 1:
2eggs w/ spinach and salt free seasoning & fruit

Meal #2: Apple with PB (no pic)
Meal #3: Lettuce wrap w/ shredded pork (no sauce) avocado & brown rice (no pic)
Meal #4: Protein Shake after workout
Meal #5:  Superfood Turkey Meatballs I ate 3 [tricky on mondays/wednesdays because Joe works until 8 and I get hungry around 5/6, so I need to eat something!]

Recipe:
1 lb ground turkey
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 tbs flaxseed
1 tbs low sodium soy sauce (or aminos)
1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
Seasonings--you could use anything really, onion/garlic powder or Mrs. Dash
I personally used Onion Onion and Garlic Garlic from Tastefully Simple {about 2 tbs each, or capful}

Bake for 30 minutes at 350

Brooke loves them!

With my leftover quinoa I had made, I had an opened jar of black bean salsa--threw in some tomatoes and a little mango balsamic vinegar --easy salad to serve.

Meal 6: Whole wheat pasta with red sauce & veggies.  It was late and I didn't have much planned.

It definitely takes me work and prep because Joe can't eat anything I am sharing with you.  He eats a very low fiber diet and nothing whole grain/wheat and very little veggies.  So, again, I am not super hard on myself as long as I am eating the best I can and nothing "white and starchy" I consider that success.  Brooke eats whatever, so I definitely try and get her to eat as much as my food as I can.  She does great!

Everyone coaches differently; some people eat no carbs, some only eat them early on.  If I am trying to get ready for vacation (bikini time) I will eat a little more strictly.  But for now, I am focusing on not snacking for no reason and eliminating all processed junk/candy/cookies/chips/wine.

That takes us to today:

Meal #1-
 2 eggs over easy on wheat sandwich thins.
Cup of water.
Hot water with lemon (it's still in the teens and snow on the ground, mama is chilly!)

2 omegaplex --flush that fat!

After the citrus fiber drink, I am really not starving.  That definitely fills you up more than the peach…and it certainly scrubs your system a lot better too!

Is it perfect? Nope!  But it's what I had to work with, after feeding my family an hour earlier (I had to get my Spark/catty/fiber drink in before I ate) and by then there was no more fruit…I need to grocery shopping again today!  My main goal is to be sure I have protein at each meal and typically a veggie and/or fruit.  Ya win some, ya lose some.

This brings me back to my very first 24 Day challenge.  It taught me so much! I was so upset with myself if I wasn't "perfect" every day…but then I quickly realized, life is TOO crazy to be perfect. In every sense of the word.  What I learned the most was that I don't have to count calories and if I eat as clean as I can, and take my products as directed I will lose the weight and feel amazing.  That simple.

I love the feeling of the cleanse, and I am looking forward to the MNS max phase even more!!

My first 24 Challenge Blogs:

Cleanse Day 3

Day 7

Day 20

Results

ALL-IN 2015

I know we are all busy with the holiday hustle and bustle, but I just had to share this amazing opportunity for better health in 2015!!  We love our group challenges here in Advo, since we know that support is a huge part of success.  Well, we are gearing up for the BIGGEST group challenge in the history of AdvoCare! We are talking about over 80,000 people taking charge of their health and starting off the new year right.

Checkout the Facebook Page for extra support HERE



Perhaps you've been enjoying a few too many cookies, or just feel like you're stuck at a plateau in general.  This is what you've been waiting for!

If you've been considering a challenge, NOW is the time!

Not only will you have accountability & encouragement from others (so you are more likely to stick with it & finish strong), but there are tons of exciting extras. Check out all of the freebies AdvoCare is throwing in for members: Free expedited SHIPPING. (so it arrives prior to Jan 7th) Free blender bottle. Free wristband. One-time free shipping on your next order of $250+ retail orders in January. Daily virtual coaching from your microsite. A new, updated 24 Day Challenge app with daily reminders for taking supplements. Meal & snack ideas, recipes, & tips. Kick-off call with instructions. Webinars from our sci/med board. Pre-orders that won't process/charge on your card until after Christmas Don't miss out!!

I admit, starting is the hardest part.  Excuses are easy to use and we often get stuck using them, over and over again.  Well, when you finally face the reality of needing to feel better, look better in clothing, or just take control of your eating habits/energy level, I will tell you, you won't look back!

My first challenge was in August of 2013.  I lost 10 lbs, 12 inches, and 2 pant sizes.  I was still a long way from my goal weight, but it was HUGE push for me and boosted my confidence to stay motivated. 

By December, I was back into my fitted sweaters and new skinny jeans!

Come March, I was smaller than I was pre-pregancny and never felt better, even in my silly disco costume!  I never thought I would feel that great after having a baby.  {No one could believe I had a one year old at home!}

And by May, I was in better shape than ever…and actually 4 weeks pregnant here in this photo!  By staying on products I had lost over 30 pounds, countless inches and had more energy than I knew what to do with…ok that's a lie, I was actually able to workout twice a day and take care of everything else I had to! 

So while I cannot actually "challenge" starting Jan. 7th,  I will be cheering my team on and helping others reach their goals!  I still pre-ordered so that I can take advantage of the free shipping, the wristband and blender bottle.  #canneverhaveenough I also will be eating clean alongside everyone, and cannot wait to get my hands on some new healthy clean recipes and share!

Are you All-In?  Who else do you know that may be interested in this amazing deal and some awesome freebies?  I would love to coach you and have you be a part of our inspiring support system.

What do you need to do?  Shoot me an e-mail if you'd like further instructions, but it's SUPER simple.  You become a member (which is a no brainer, it really does save you tons of money!) by signing up here.   You will receive $59 in products, Spark and Slam--wahoo energy and mental clarity---and the membership is much like BJ's/Costco where it's no monthly minimum or anything.  You will get 20% off the rest of your orders.  No, you don't have to "Sell" or anything.  It's just the smartest decision financially! 

Next you'll pre-order your ALL-IN bundle and pick your flavors of Spark and Meal Shakes.  Yumm! You will also choose the MNS best for you and I would throw in a bottle of Catalyst, thermoplus and Carb ease for best results! Oh I love those guys.

Be sure to plan out your meals, and get with your coach (it's what we are here for!) and make sure you are ready to rock 1/7/15!  

Gingerbread Bars are Back!!!!

I'm not usually a two posts in one day kinda gal, buuuuuut---this just made me VERY happy. I was just thinking about how wonderful Christmas will be this year and I was feeling festive.

BAM.

Out these bad boys come and they won't be around long!!!

Get your AdvoCare Gingerbread Bars today! The pumpkin shakes sold out in about 2 weeks and these are sure to go even faster.

They seriously taste like a protein cookie.

I cannot wait to warm it up in the microwave for about 10 seconds and just enjoy it as a healthy treat.

Happy Holidays indeed!!

As always, if you have any questions I am always here!! 

Otherwise…hurry and order now!!

Gingerbread Protein Bars from AdvoCare Order Here

Belief, Good Health, and a Cash Prize Contest!!

July 2013 I decided to stop feeling sorry for myself and take care of my health.  I was 6 months postpartum from having Brooke and still had quite a bit of weight to lose. I didn't feel like myself. I was tired and grumpy all of the time, and had a really crappy outlook!  I should have been on cloud nine.

I had a wonderful and supportive husband, who worked hard so that I could stay home with our precious baby.  I LOVE staying home, but feeling the way I did was not doing anyone any good. {If mama ain't happy, nobody is happy was the truth.}

As I've mentioned before, my friend Nikki reached out and basically told me to cut it out.  Here was an excellent opportunity to jumpstart my life into an entirely new direction.  I felt a sense of rebirth; from the moment I decided to join this team of champions, I have never looked back.  I have never felt so supported in every sense of the word, when it comes to weight loss, health, and just being involved in an incredible community of people who just care about each other.

From losing over 30 pounds with these amazing products and sharing them, I have been able to grow my business.  I may not be able to attend every Success School due to certain circumstances, but I am confident that my timing will be perfect and I will continue to grow.

The amount of people I have helped lose weight, gain better health, feel better about themselves, and help them earn extra income really makes me feel a sense of accomplishment.  My goal is to help even more people in 2015.  I know that I am a compassionate person; it is one of the main reasons I went into teaching. I love watching others grow and learn! AdvoCare completely allows me to fill that while I'm staying home and raising my babies.

I'm not gonna lie, I also enjoy having a plan B source of income.  It's a crazy world we live in and although my husband has a great job and we have started our own rental business, I still like having something to call mine.  I am my own boss; how cool is that?  Long gone are the days of me thinking I would forever be a teacher.  It was a great career for the 8 years I was in it, but I have no plans of looking back.



I also want to share one of my accomplishments. While this is not me bragging or being boastful, I am so proud to share this little gem that arrived in the mail.

A Silver pin, which is proof of how many lives I have changed, just by me saying YES to an incredible opportunity.  I didn't get this by being selfish; I earned it by planting TONS of seeds, sharing my story and helping others get what they want in life.  Once upon a time, I never dreamed that I would even achieve this.  I doubted myself, I had negative thoughts, and thought maybe it was just something for others.

Guess what?  I proved myself wrong, along with others who have told me it's just a scam and no one ever really does well with Direct Sales…bla bla. I just kept with it; that's the thing with this biz, you just can't quit and you need to BELIEVE.  I have some of the best leaders who are constantly coaching, answering questions, and always there for me.  I follow their lead and do my very best to provide that same support to others.  I know there are more people who need "better" in their lives.

I've never been an "energy drink person" but I definitely had a bit of a coffee problem prior to meeting SPARK.  I will be honest, I was nervous to try it because I was so anti energy drinks.  Well, once I tried it I haven't looked back!  No jitters, no crash, no weird fuzzy feeling (like I'd get after drinking one too many cups of coffee because I was so tired.)  Not to mention all ingredients I had no idea that were going into all those cups of coffee…and how about the price?  I'm happy to have made that substantial switch!  If you've never tried a SPARK, let me know! #lifechanging

I definitely love this new Holiday flavor.  I'm a pumpkin gal and it helps with the sweet tooth that creeps in from time to time.  SO YUM! Pumpkin Spice Meal Replacement Shakes

I may have bought a few more boxes so I can try these!

Or maybe even this!



We also have some awesome products to help keep us healthy throughout this germy season.  I swore by Immunoguard last year and Joe has already been handing out the chews at work to people who are feeling yucky.  Don't wait until you get sick--be proactive and don't get sick this year!



The last thing I wanted to share is this group challenge we have!  We did one in the Spring and it was so awesome, we wanted to squeeze one more in before the holidays.  We have cash prizes for the top 3 transformations.  It's not just about losing weight; we have challengers who are looking to define abs and see more muscle definition as well!

24 Day Challenge video

Please connect with me if you're interested in joining!  I also love referrals, so if you share this with someone and she signs up, I'll happily compensate you with a FREE thank you gift!

-Free personal coaching with 24/7 support

-Meal plans/recipes/grocery

-Fun, supportive and encouraging environment 

-Top 3 transformations will win CA$H prizes just in time for the holidays!

Last Challenge of Summer

If you remember, it was about a year ago I started my first 24 Day Challenge with AdvoCare. [here]  It was actually the beginning of my journey towards being a healthier version of me; a stronger version of me; overall, a BETTER ME!!  While I obviously cannot cleanse or use some products, I can hold myself accountable for eating cleaner.  I am NOT eating for two this time; I am enjoying foods in moderation, but still really trying to maintain my 80/20 rule.

Looking at that photo below, I'm like oh my goodness, I think my stomach is smaller right now 4 months prego than it was 6 months postpartum!! And in 24 days, look at that.  What a reminder that ANYTHING is possible, just focus and believe.

My girlfriend is doing a challenge so I am throwing it out there, who wants to join us?  I need to hold myself a little more accountable and back to eating clean foods, and MORE greens!  I would love to have a little support group here.

I know that I feel more positive when I eat cleaner and move more too; if you're stuck in a rut, just try it!!

I'm not gonna lie, I'm a little jealous that we can now "build your own bundles" and mix up whatever flavors you want!!  How cool.  I would STRONGLY encourage the add-ons, Thermoplus, Catalyst and Carb-ease.   With that, I must once again thank my friend Nikki for pushing me, when I needed it.  Thanks friend/coach!!  She is such a fireball and is doing such a great job with her new bundle of joy.  Love ya girl!

I am forever grateful for her interrupting my life and I know I say it a lot, but I will NEVER be on a diet--and Brooke will NEVER hear me say that.  I know it is so crucial for children, especially girls, to not be bombarded with thinking that they're fat, or mom is constantly trying to crash diet etc.  On top of it, all while getting healthy, I am still able to continue to our family's finances.  I still am in awe of that.  

So Summer is still rocking and you've got one more chance to challenge before Fall!  It's not easy, but I promise it will be worth it.  

Workouts, Motivation, and Thoughts

Last year when I was feeling so lost and sad about losing weight, I sadly attempted the Tone it Up Bikini Series.  I love their positive vibe, pretty surroundings, and their kick-butt workouts.  Because of AdvoCare, I can say I am LOVING it this time around.  Cardio? OK! Weights? Yes please!

This ish is no joke. I try to keep up with it on the elliptical, but sometimes I just do what I can.

My elliptical. I have a love/hate relationship with this thing. I BEGGED my husband for it last year; as if I thought once having it I'd lose weight and feel amazing.  Boy, was I wrong! I cannot tell you how HARD it was to get on this thing for 20 minutes (or more) last year.  I was 30 pounds heavier and had no energy.   Now?  I honestly love it.  I don't love that it's in the garage (our weather is still questionable) and it's too big to bring inside.  However, my motto? No excuses.  So I try my hardest to jump on it for at least 20-30 minutes now.  I have been trying new shows, but nothing is capturing me like Scandal did.  [womp womp]

Lovin this new app I got! {rhonna}

So fun!

Sometimes I wish I had a gym membership, but honestly? I am loving my workout area.  I can get down to biz after my Arginine and Catalyst…no worries!

I bought this journal last year and began writing about my weight loss…I love how the tiu girls encourage writing goals and dreams.  It's important to manifest our wishes, so that they come true!

Some of these seem so simple, but those of you who have been enjoying weather above 50 degrees have NO idea how much sitting outside reading a book or laying on warm grass would mean to us freezing New Yorkers!

I either pull up the you-tube  video or the photo on my phone…#noexcuses

Day 3 I didn't get my cardio in, but I did do this one!

Wowza!

I know life is all that we make of it, so I just keep finding motivating quotes to keep me going!

Earlier today-- I was on a mission and it wasn't *too cold. I watched you tube videos...

After my 30 minute cardio sesh, I did the 'cowabunga' and fueled up with my Chocolate muscle gain protein shake.  My view isn't exactly pristine, but it's my life and I freaking love it.

Oh, and of course I am pumping my body full of vitamins & lots of healthy foods! Organic apple & pb are my afternoon sweet/salty treat.

I should probably finish up the laundry, mop the floors and get dinner started, but I wanted to share what I've been up to!!

If you're having a hard time getting started, I am here to help!  It took a few 24 day challenges and a lot of motivation to get where I am at.  I am debating on how to share my progress; I am not perfect but I am ok with that.  My tummy has some soft spots and stretch marks, and I've not been 100% on point with my clean eating; why? Because I love food.  I feel amazing and am happier than I have ever been with myself, so for that I am proud.  

I will say I so badly wanted a jr bacon cheeseburger and cheese fries from Wendy's yesterday, but I did NOT give in!! I am happy about that.  I know on vacation we will live and let live, splurge and enjoy all that the island food has to offer. And that will be much tastier than garbage from a fast food joint.

Happy Thursday my loves!

Getting Ready to Feel Awesome

So, our big plans this weekend fell through.

Sad face.

But, that is ok because now I can focus on ME!  I have been pretty good eating well, trying to workout more and such, but I love to cook. I love food. I love to eat food. Sometimes I get a little, let's say, not so aware of what and how much I am eating.

Enter in:

The 24 day challenge!

I no longer diet.  I just reset and reboot. 

BOOM!

So I made a little video about how I'm feeling.   Oh and I mention that even my dog is on Probiotics! ha

Feel free to watch, share and comment!  

Stay happy and healthy friends.

{awesome screen shot as always}

This is my 3rd 24 day challenge. Feel free to check out these links from my previous ones!

Clean recipes

Before and After

First 24 Day Challenge Results   {{Wow I have come a long way!}}

New Year, New You

Hi friends!

We are on the brink of a new year.  How awesome!?  I know a lot of people are asking about "this AdvoCare stuff" so I felt compelled to make a quick video the other day, so I wanted to share that and a few tips!

If you're looking to lose weight, tone up, increase your sports endurance,  or even add some extra income into your pocket,  I'd love to coach you.  I would feel wrong not sharing my passion for this company--I sincerely wish everyone would feel as great as I do!

The 24 Day Bundle is on sale Jan. 1st!! We never get sales, so this is HUGE!!  Plus, the new workout DVD is coming out---yay!!

So, if you're thinking of your New Years resolutions and any of the above are on there, remember there is something for everyone. I mean it!  We always say start with the 24 day bundle because it's the perfect way to jumpstart healthy living, but if you can only afford a box of Spark or some Catalyst, then do yourself a favor and order some.  Life. Changing.  I promise, if you make small attainable goals each day, every week, by a few months in, you'll be a totally new you.

I hated having my picture taken before---but to see how far I've come, and how much healthier I am, means so much to me!  It is possible. I didn't think it was...but it is!

Plus you get me as your coach, and I think I'm pretty fun to work with!!

:)


What've you got to lose? It works for me, it will work for you!

Some inspiration....

Everyone should have something she wants to improve on in life; it's healthy to have goals and work towards being better.  I know my health goals are in check, for me it's my organization and clutter that needs some attending to!


Bring on 2014---it's gonna be amazing!!

I Confess...

...Remember that time just the other day when my husband told me I was the girl of his dream?  Yeah, well #wifeyfail up in herrrr.  Ya heard.  So, I didn't realize one truly needed to pre-order an overpriced gaming system that comes out November 15. So guess who asked for one for Christmas? Guess who's not on a list?  How did I miss that memo, amidst all the poopy diapers I have been changing!? No really, I feel like an ass.  The man never asks for much, so I am a tad upset our communication skills failed.  I'm hoping I can somehow fix this mess {maybe wait in line at midnight November 15 at Game Stop...who's with me? :/ }

 #isthisevenwhatitlookslike

...I'm equally parts nervous and excited to be traveling to NJ this weekend. I will be driving (6 hours) alone because my amazing team is getting together! Danielle and her beautiful family are coming all the way from Georgia. 

 {Her awesome blog here} 

...Even though 6 hours in a car (alone) is long, they are really making an effort, so I can make mine.  We are going there because my incredible friend Nikki {who just got engaged--yay!} lives there and the rest of our Advo fam! The training will be well worth my time I am sure, but....

Her fantastic blog here

 
...I'm scared to death to leave Brooke Lynn that long! Now, she's already quite independent: walking, talking, brushing her teeth, putting herself to bed...bahaha not quite, she does love her alone time, but she is also used to me. All. The. Time. Well, okay, the occasional date night or mommy time out---but, I'll leave early Friday and come back late Saturday, so....I won't really see her from Thurs to Sunday. Whoa.

...successful people must do the things that unsuccessful people won't {or don't.}  It is out of my comfort zone to drive that long, all by myself and to leave my family behind.  I know they'll be fine, but it's still going to be hard!  We must do things that push ourselves, and that will lead to a higher being. I believe that the more uncomfortable we are, the more growing we do.  The better we become in life.

...I looked like a hot mess on my afternoon walk with Brooke.  She was really cranky, wouldn't sleep, didn't want to play, wouldn't finish a bottle...so we walked. And walked. And walked.  In my neon sneakers.  An animal print top. Hair half up, following out of ponytail.  My awesome Gap boyfriend jeans I scored a fab deal on?  They get waaaaaaaaaaay baggy. #poorme #Iknowright No, but for real. My husband told me the butt was so saggy, they looked like clown pants.  Thanks AdvoCare!!

...Speaking of, it's been about 90 days (come November) and know what that means?  You can {and should} cleanse again!! I prefer to stay on the MNS all the time, because when I don't take these vitamins, I can tell that my body is lacking the proper amounts of nutrients! It's crazy, I know.  I was nervous of being "a pill popper" but then I started taking these vitamins and I realize, if I don't take these supplements, I am actually doing my body a disservice.  It feels better running on FULL instead of E!  It's unfortunate that "pills" get a bad rap because there are a lot of junky ones out there, but these are certainly high quality. Amazing. I fall in love with them a little more each month.

...I had a bit of interest on Instagram, and so far I have at least 5 people committed to doing it with me.  The start day is flexible; I know some Halloween parties are that weekend, so obviously start when you're ready. That's half the battle; you have to want it.  I can only help those who want to be helped.

...I'm pumped to see these next results now that I am already to my "pre-pregnancy" weight, this will be like legit taking it to the next level...I am going to KILL it!!  I have a goal in mind and cannot wait to do this challenge with like-minded people!

...that I do challenge you to 24 with me. No more excuses; let's look back at our family holiday photos and feel proud at how great we looked *and felt!