My Visit to the New Whole Foods River Rd Tucson

Earlier this week I visited our new Whole Foods Store on River Rd Tucson.  While this location is a bit of a drive for me, I will be visiting it a lot more.  I like to buy Organic and GMO free products, and like to have options.  The store was busting with great support of local Tucson residents supporting healthy food and lifestyles. 

When we got there, they were handing out samples of organic pure granola bars, Zevia cola, hot roasted veggies, and all natural beef patties.  I then walked through the produce section grabbing some spinach, kale, collards, apples, and grapes, all organic and great prices. 

We first stopped by the bulk section and picked up some organic grains, granola, and flours.  We then stopped by the peanuts section and the hubby and kids made fresh peanut butter right there.  Whole foods have a cool machine that presses roasted peanuts right there for you.  The kids are hooked on this fresher nuttier taste. 

Then we walked through the aisles and I was both excited and frustrated by the many people shopping.  It's awesome to see so many wonderful residents supporting our new store, but as a family of six we had little opportunity to brows everything.  I decided to make it a short trip and come back when during the week when it would be less crowded.  We grabbed some more Coconut oil, Cold Pressed Olive Oil, Kale Chips, and a few other items.  I was like a kid in a candy store with the verity of GMO Free, Gluten Free, and Organic items! I did not get pictures of the great deli, seafood sections, bulk coffee and teas, and more.  I will be sure to next time!  I did grab this picture of the Bar and wines in the back.  This I can totally see the hubby walking over to watch the game and grab a beer while I play throughout the store.


The Kale Krunch was on sale and the kids and I love these, organic and GMO Free!

Before you head out be sure to check out that week's Sale Flyer and the weekly events

What is on sale this week Flyer! 

1/24-1/31 Just a few are Organic Green Kale $1.50, Organic Mangos $1.99, Organic Apples $1.99 lb, and more!

 

Check out Jan/Feb 2013

Start fresh with real savings! Let The Whole Deal value guide help you meet your fiscal and physical wellness resolutions with up to $53 in coupons, 18 Sure Deals, 10 new budget-friendly recipes, a daily meal planner and more than 50 money-saving tips.
Download The Whole Deal (USA) (Print it Here)
Lots of $1 off coupons of products you will love. 

Don't forget to check out the calendar of events. 

Friday 1/25

Today is Fit and Fabulous Fridays -Grab a group of friends and join us for a healthier happy hour. Meet us in the bar for a wine spritzer and grab a guilt free dinner from the salad bar where you will find a variety of different Health Starts Here dishes.  5:00 PM-7:00PM E. River Bar, $5 per plate.

 

Also Happening Tonight- Belgian Beer Tasting.  With over 450 varieties, many beer lovers consider Belgian’s the holy grail of beers. Join us as we explore a variety of Belgian and Belgian style beers and find your favorite. 5:00 PM -7:00 PM $5 person.

Saturday 1/26

Game time Grub- 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM.  Visit our specialty department to sample a variety of dips paired with the perfect local beer for your game time party! FREE

 

SAT Cooking for your Health.  1:30 PM - 4:00 PM FREE but you need to RSVP!

"Have you resolved to eat healthier this year but don’t know where to start? Join us for a special class with certified health coach Rachael Laing as she teaches us how to make tasty & healthy dishes for the New Year. Rachael currently works as a coach for the Wellness Council of Southern Arizona. She also teaches private classes on whole-food plant-based nutrition and wellness, runs group yoga sessions at her home, and teaches workshops on incorporating yoga and nutrition. Rachael received her training from The Institute for Integrative Nutrition and The California College of Natural Medicine. To learn more about Rachael and the classes she offers, visit www.embracingwellness.net. Please RSVP to sp.rrd.events@wholefoods.com."

 

5555 E. River Road

Tucson  Arizona  85750-1949

United States

Seven days a week 8am - 10pm

P: 520.461.1300
F: 520.461.1326 

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Running 100 Miles in February.

 

28 days. 100 miles. One incredible adventure. This amazing race starts 02.01.2013.

I just signed up for the Wounded Warrior project!

This is a great way to get out, track some miles, and raise money for our soldiers.

You can sign up for free, a simple $20 donation- tax deductible, or a larger amount if you are feeling the love! 

Taji The Experience

 

Go Here To Sign Up!

 

Wounded Warrior Project is a public charity as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Your gifts are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

 

 

Disclaimer:  I am not paid for my reviews.  I am including a link as a referral

 and might receive credit for purchases.  I enjoy living a green life and like to bring my readers companies that are passionate about health, living natural, and clean

Organic Cherry Smoothie Breakfast

Making breakfast with the kids.  Some mornings, like today, it is so hard to get out of bed when the sun is not even up.  We all over slept and we need to make some fast healthy breakfast before school. 

I love oatmeal because you can have a nice warm bowl within 5 minutes.  Todays breakfast was a simple organic cinnamon and vanilla oatmeal and a Cherry Smoothie. 

Organic Cherry Smoothie
2 cups of whole frozen organic cherries. 
1 cup of Organic Vanilla Yogurt
1/2 cup of Organic Juice

Mix together and made 5 servings.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  Don't let running late run you empty.  Think of healthful delicious quick meals you can make and have them ready for days like today. 

Wildwood SoapWorks Certificate Giveaway for Green Resolutions Hop

 

Welcome to the Green Resolutions Giveaway Hop, hosted by Happy Mothering and Mama Chocolate.

To help our readers start their New Year off Green, members of the Green Moms Network have come together to offer giveaways valued at $25+. After entering my giveaway below, please visit the other blogs listed under the Rafflecopter form to find the rest of the green giveaways.

One of my favorite Green Companies that I started using last year was Wildwood SoapWorks.  I started using their soaps early last year and absolutely love them.  They are made completely with organic oils and no fragrances! 

The difference I have seen in my skin is amazing.  It feels great I am so glad that I am no longer junking up my body with toxins.  Before last year I had not known how bad many commercial beauty products where.  I have completely made over my beauty care items to be from non-toxic companies.  Wildwood SoapWorks has so many wonderful soaps to choose from, with a purpose for every soap.  Here is my Soap Review. 

Another product love at Wildwoods SoapWorks is the Healing and Sleeping Balm.  You can see my original review here.  I use the healing balm on a daily bases almost.  With four active kids we always carry on with us, no matter where we go, and have one at the house.  I have used the healing balm on normal cuts, bruises, acne, scars, rashes, cactus needles, stinging nettles, and poison oak!  Almost any skin irritation I have used it on and it immediately calms, cleans, and soothes. 

This summer, we went to the lake to swim, picnic, and fish with my father and step-mother.  It was a beautiful summer day and we were catching a fair amount of fish.  I was so glad that I always carry my healing balm because we had two situations come up.  The first was my daughter, of eight years old, was re-baiting her hook and accidently hooked her hand.  This happens sometimes but she was so brave and holding back the tears.  I immediately was worried about bacteria and applied the healing balm.  She said it felt much better and went back to fishing and swimming, I put the balm back on a few times through the day and it never redden or showed signs of infection, actually it looked like nothing happen the next day.  Not long after, my daughter caught a catfish.  The fish was a little on the smaller side so we decided to throw it back.  In the process of unhooking the catfish my Dad was barbed in the hand.  If you have not had this happen to you, it is incredibly painful and the barbs carry a lot of nasty bacteria.  I grabbed for my healing balm and my Dad looked at me very skeptical.  He was so surprised that it took the pain away and started to reduce the swelling immediately.  For the rest of the day my dad kept saying how shocked he was that the balm actually works.  He said that the pain would usually be horrible and he hand so swollen that it would be hard to move for 3 days or more, he has been barbed a lot of times.  He looked like he had a normal everyday little poke on his hand with no swelling or redness, the hand never got infected lake previous times.  I was so glad he liked it I gave him one to take home to use whenever he had an injury. 

Wildwood SoapWorks also carries
Lotions and Potions
Balms and Butters
Protects for baby
Teas and Scrubs
Pet Products
Bath accessories
Gift Certificates

I am giving away a Certificate of $25, for you to pick something you like, to help with your green resolutions!   

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Black Bean Tacos on this weeks Good Eat'm Hop

 

Welcome to the Good Eatin' Recipe Hop

hosted by

The 'Pitch List' Bloggers

Every Tuesday you can join us to share great recipes.........

There are no specific themes. 
Add your recipe of choice to the linky.

No Giveaways Please...all giveaways will be removed.

We Love Comments! Please Share!

 

My Yoga Online Referal Link

I love Yoga and it is a serious but relaxing workout.

Throughout the Holidays MyYogaOnline.com helped me stay fit and stress free.

 

 

With hundreds of videos to chose from you can literally have a different workout every day.  You can chose from teachers you like best.  Search the 4 level of difficulty from beginner to advanced.  There is videos to help explain and teach you correct poses, recipes, and videos of how to make.  Plus, don't forget the healthy and wellness programs to chose from.   

 

If you have not already tried out My Yoga Online, you can do so now for a free week with total membership benefits. 

Just go to http://www.myyogaonline.com/invite/Kelleyjohnsen 

Don't forget your friends!

Get 1 month free for every person you invite that buys a membership. There's no limit to how many free months you can get. Even if your friends don't buy, they still get 2 weeks for free. No credit card. No obligation. Just free yoga. They'll love that! And the best part -- the site sells itself. They'll join eventually and before long, you'll have a lifetime membership.

 

Disclaimer:  I am not paid for my reviews.  I am including a link as a referral and might receive credit for purchases.  I enjoy living a green life and like to bring my readers companies that are passionate about health, living natural, and clean

Upcoming Melissa and Doug Deluxe Kitchen Giveaway Event

I love when kids can learn to have fun with food and we can teach them about eating right from the start.  One of my daughters favorite things in her room is her Kitchen and she has made up a ton of wonderful dishes.   I am excited to help bring this event and giveaway to my readers. 

Free Blogger Opportunity for Melissa and Doug Deluxe Kitchen Play Center Giveaway. Hosted by Plum Crazy About Coupons.

Dates: 1/20 - 2/10

Retail Value - $249.99. Sure to increase your numbers. Free Facebook or Twitter with announcement post found here or pay $5 fee.

Free Facebook Links will be on Rafflecopter Host Pages (so no farm pages) Host pages $10 for Facebook Rafflecopter and Twitter pages.

Payments sent to xplumcrazeex2003@yahoo.com as a gift!

   

Referral prize of $25 Paypal to the blogger who refers the most bloggers.

SIGN UP HERE!

Disclaimer: I am not paid for my announcements, news, or post. These are my opinions and thoughts. I enjoying bring my readers wonderful Companies, Events, Health News, and Green Living.

Upcoming Get Fit by Gaming Event

Xbox Bundle Giveaway Event

Hosted by: Mom to Bed by 8 and Giveaway Bandit

Prize Package includes: Xbox 360 S Console, 250GB Hard Drive, Kinect Sensor, Wireless Controller, Kinect Adventures and Carnival Games: Monkey See Monkey Do

Event dates: 2/15 - 3/1

It is that time of year when we are all trying to get fit and finally start eating right.  I love to have fun with the family the XBOX bundle can really help you get moving with the games that encourage movement.  Be sure to come by for the giveaway event!

Free Blogger Event: Sign Up HERE 

Tell them Kelley's Passion for nutrition Sent you!

Xbox Bundle Giveaway Event Hosted by: Mom to Bed by 8 and Giveaway Bandit Prize Package includes: Xbox 360 S Console, 250GB Hard Drive, Kinect Sensor, Wireless Controller, Kinect Adventures and Carnival Games: Monkey See Monkey Do Event dates: 2/15 - 3/1

Disclaimer: I am not paid for my announcements, news, or post. These are my opinions and thoughts. I enjoying bring my readers wonderful Companies, Events, Health News, and Green Living.

Black Bean Tacos

Black Bean Tacos

1 cup of Black Beans cooked
taco seasoning
1 avocado
1/2 squeeze lemon
1/4 cup cilantro
red leaf lettuce
flour taco shell

I boil my Black Beans until they are no longer hard, but no mushy.  The Black Beans usually take a little longer than most beans to cook.  For this reason I will soak my beans over night.  Then heat them up to desired texture. 
For the guacamole, mush 1 avocado squeeze in 1/2 a lemon juice and mix well.  Cut the Cilantro and lettuce.  The taco is great just like this but I like to add a little taco seasoning mix to the black beans every now and then,  Tonight I added a couple shakes of seasoning to the beans and layers my taco.  It is delicious and filling. 

Disclaimer: I am not paid for my announcements, news, or post. These are my opinions and thoughts. I enjoying bring my readers wonderful Companies, Events, Health News, and Green Living.

New Year New You Week Two Self Improvement Hop

Welcome!!
Glad you are joining us for the 

Weekly Friday

New Year New You Self Improvement Hop!

The Pitch List Bloggers 

want to make 2013 the Best Year Ever!

We read and follow GREAT Blogs!  

Blogs that have fantastic content on how to make our lives a little better!  

We thought "Let's make a weekly hop. What a GREAT way to share helpful ideas to make our lives better."

If you have a post on anyway to make 2013 better please add it to the linky!

Each Friday we will have a new linky!

Join us for a great 2013 Adventure to a Better Life!

This week I am Linking up

Breakfast Get Creative, Keep it Fresh, and Make it Enjoyable.
What Organ is Most Affected by Skipping Breakfast?
New Video with Joe on Reboot with Joe .
What Inspires you?

 

VaCCeptable Injuries Book Giveaway

VaCCeptable Injuries Book Giveaway

I enjoyed reading Markus' book very much. 

If you have not had a chance to read my review you can here. 

 

The Pitch List is going to be giving away a book to 3 lucky readers.  The giveaway starts at midnight and will end on 1/18.  Good Luck! 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclaimer: No purchase is necessary to enter. Void where prohibited by law. The odds of winning are based on the number of entries received. This promotion is no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook and is Facebook-compliant. Winners will be notified by email from a ‘Pitch List ‘ Blog. Winners will have 72 hours to respond or risk forfeiting their prize. Prize fulfillment is the sole responsibility of the sponsor. The blogs participating may not be held liable for Sponsors who do not fulfill prize shipments.

VaCCeptable Injuries by Markus Heinze Book Review

I know this subject will be controversial at times and I hope you read this review with an open mind.  This book talks about a father's research that started when his daughter received an injury from vaccinations resulting in Type-1 Diabetes.  His research has led to finding many injuries of children from Cancer, Autism, ADD, ADHD, Asthma, and Allergies. 

The book is 145 pages long and I was able to read it very quickly, for one I could not put it down.  I had already been following this subject making my own inquiries as to whether Vaccinations were safe or not.  I am hearing more and more stories of these injuries and toxins in the shots before ever picking up Markus book.  For the last 10 years we have not received any Flu shots because I did not believe they really protected me from the Flu.  Every year there are many strains of the Flu roaming the planet, and the shot of the year is just the strain they estimate to be the most problematic.  Even though we always opt-out of the Flu shot, every one of my children has received every vaccination to date.  I never knew there were other options, especially since my children would not be allowed at school if they were not up to date.  I almost feel bullied in having to have these done, knowing that they contain bacteria, heavy metals, and other substances that are unknown to me.  I give them to my children because the government says I have to and that they protect my children from future harm. 
 

Over the last few years I have been seeing many that DO NOT vaccinate their children, and they have never experience anything other than normal colds and regular illness.  Some of these children are well into their teens, and as healthy as mine.  I started wondering about this as I receive pink letters in my children back packs of illnesses found in their classroom, illness like chick pox, strep throat, pinkeye, foot and mouth disease, Flu, and more coming home.  While I am thankful to the school for keeping me aware, I think roughly 98% of all children in the public schools are vaccinated and still getting these illness.  I have also been following the rise in children diagnosed with ADD, ADHD, Autism, and Childhood diabetes, it's alarming and as I read Markus book I am wondering if there really is a link.  No one questions vaccines unless they have a horrific experience and that experience is seldom shared with the masses. 

In Markus Book "Vacceptable Injuries" he shared his story of why he started his own research.  He shares what we actually know about vaccines and the Unknown of vaccines.  He shares horrifies research of HOW they tested the "safety" of vaccines.  Let me explain a little here about the safety testing.  He recommends, and questions, "Why" they never tested the vaccines against placebos.  The vaccines are tested against "other" vaccines showing little differences.  Well, that's like testing if a whopper is unhealthy against a Big Mac.  They're both unhealthy right?  He then goes into explaining that they knowing put vaccines to use when some result in deaths.  Some of this has been explained that the numbers are too few and it protects the masses.  He refers to as like playing Russian roulette as to whether your children will be one affected by the toxins and metals.  The book is loaded with quotes, studies, and information that may or may not change your mind, but it at least opens a second side of the story. He shows graphs that since the 1900's we were already on downward slope of less outbreaks of diseases.  Yes there were a few outbreaks here and there, but the question as to whether vaccines actually protect from those diseases is in question.  He discusses the credibility, the effectiveness, and the bandwagon of society. 

 My Opinion

I am still on the fence as to whether we will continue to vaccinate or not.  I am not taking Markus word on everything in the book, not because I believe it in error, but as a parent I have to research all the facts.  I have only ever been told that they are safe, seeing with my own eyes children and adults affected has opened my eyes and made me question this system.  Markus' book may not change your opinion on whether to vaccinate, but you owe it to yourself, children, grandchildren, friends, and family to read and ask some questions.  He has given me many links to follow up on and dive into this further.  His book has done its job and helping me ask questions, and to stop blindly believing that someone else knows what's best for me and my family.  I might still vaccinate, but I have some time to do more research and before making that decision.  I am leaning towards no more, but I owe it to myself and my children to look at this further before making any decision.  I hope you pick up this book and ask a few questions as well. 

A few quotes from the book

"Numerous medical articles suggest that vaccine adjuvants (adjuvant is an ingredient intended to aid in the effectiveness of the vaccine , substances such as aluminum and mercury)can cause autoimmune disorders........aluminum in vaccines causes cell death."

"The researchers found that for every live vaccine given, there's one high risk event to be expected for every 168 twelve  month old vaccinated, and one high-risk event for every 170 eighteen month old children vaccinated.  Doctors expect to see 20 seizures for every 100,000 children vaccinated.  Slowly it became evident to me that vaccinating our children is like a shot in the dark, like playing the lottery using our child's lives."

"About 30, 000 reports are received by VAERS each year:10-25% involve hospitalization, permanent disability, or are considered life-threatening; about 2% involve death.  At the same time it is estimated that ONLY 1-10% of all doctors report a severe health problem that occurs after a drug or vaccine is given to a patient."

"according to the US Food and Drug Administration, safety assessments for vaccines have often not included appropriate toxicity studies because vaccines have not been viewed as inherently toxic."  In other words: the same government agency that  assures you that vaccines are safe has not studied and researched all the ingredients in those vaccines."

"the pharmaceutical company producing this vaccine and the FDA knew that many children would die from the vaccine. (When 36,165 children received this vaccine, 25 died.  Statistically, this implied that if 361, 165 children received this vaccine, it would kill 250 children.)" 

 "There are no cases of wild polio (naturally caused polio) left in the United States.  Instead we now see elevated numbers of vaccine-induced polio."

I could go on, but these are ones that spoke to me personally and had highlighted.  Each of these quotes contain links to support in the book. 

Buy the Book on Amazon at $14.95

Follow the Blog

Markus on Facebook

 

 As a Pitch List Member I will be promoting a giveaway that starts TONIGHT and will run until 1/18, be sure to come enter. 

Disclaimer: I am not paid for my announcements, news, or post. These are my opinions and thoughts. I enjoying bring my readers wonderful Companies, Events, Health News, and Green Living.

 

New Video with Joe on Reboot with Joe

The Joe Show

 

Looking for some fun inspiration for this new year?  I Love Joe's movie "Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead".  He has been an inspiration to many to get their health back and live .  He is doing something new with a new TV series called The Joe Show that you can see on Reboot with Joe.  Here is a little you will see in episode 1

Joe sharing his success tips for achieving health and wellness

  Chef Matteo Silverman making a delicious Winter Kale Salad. Get the recipe.

  Magen Banwart with easy exercises you can do from home.

  Joe's Mean Green Recipe- his favorite raw juice that saved his life.

  His 5 favorite foods.

Getting healthy is fun and healthy food should taste great!  I hope you enjoy. 

What Organ is Most Affected by Skipping Breakfast?

Most of us are always on the go which might make this week revamping your Breakfast a little more difficult than those that stay at home.  That said, stay at home moms seem to have little time to sit down and have a relaxing and nourishing breakfast too.  I would like to challenge you to really work on this.  You owe it to yourself to start and set the pace for a stress free day.  This falls into the positive affirmations.  When we think "I don't have time to sit and eat Breakfast", "can't take the time" "I'm running behind", these are all negative thoughts that stick with us and carry into our day. 

What is the one area of your body that is affected by malnutrition?  First, let me explain that someone can be affected by malnutrition even if they are eating three square meals a day.  Malnutrition is a lack of nutrients and the body is essentially starving.  You can be 400 lbs and be malnourished.  They have not lacked in foods, but they are starving their body none the less with less nourishing foods.  Foods that have vitamins, minerals, micronutrients, and so forth, your live foods that are unprocessed will keep you from starving your body with empty calorie foods.

Answer: The BRAIN! 

You may think that feelings come from the heart, hunger from the stomach, and thinking with the brain, but really the brain is responsible for all three.  Your behaviors, moods, and memory are all affected by the brain not to mention over 1000 metabolic processes.  Your brain uses up 20% of your bodies energy sources.  The ability to think clearly, stay calm, make decisions, are running on 20% of your fuel you are providing.  No other organ is as demanding as your brain, yes important and affected but not as much.  Think about this next time you want to skip Breakfast and you have a meeting, driving, paying bills, studying for a test, deciding on a house, you get the idea. 


For some people we run out of time or get behind because of certain morning routines.  My husband likes to wake up to reading the news and emails.  This causes him to skip breakfast most mornings.  While he is getting ready I am making the kids breakfast and lunches.  I have to make my husband's breakfast and lunches for him to take to work.  He is someone that cannot eat breakfast that early in the morning.  To balance this I send him with a mid-morning breakfast, which he usually has sometime around 10 am.  I pack him, egg burritos, yogurt, mixed fruits, cereal bars, smoothies, and protein bars, because I like to change it up through the week.  You can have breakfast on the go and it can still be healthful.  It takes planning and follow-through to make this happen. 
You can be "eating" foods that may be satisfying your craving, but is it nourishing your body.  Remember we said that Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, you have been fasting and you need to fill up.  Think of your body as a car and your stomach as the gas tank.  What happens when we run out of car?  You'll need to put something in it, right?  What if you just add enough to get you from point A to B, although you will eventually have up to 15-20 stops through the day.  Your gas tank needs to have the right fuel and the right amount.  You don't want to have to keep filling up at gas stations all day long that would just be frustrating.  It sounds ridicules, but that is what we do when we don't take the time to eat a regular meal and just provide our body with quick energy snacks.  Maybe it's a donut, a slice of toast, a granola bar, or a small bowl of cereal , the list can go on with the variety of processed foods we have available for us.  We have engrained in our heads that we have so much to do with little time to do it.  We have a ton of convenience foods that boast about eating on the go, no more running behind, but are these processed foods or live foods.  I think of sugary donuts, candy bars, chips, anything you grab from the vending machines as diesel fuel for your unleaded tank.  Your car is eventually going to shut down.  It may take you a little ways, but it will stop working.  Why add a few dollars of gas instead of filling up the tank?  You will eventually need and burn that gas, but we keep only adding just enough to get us to one point or the next.  Treat your body like you want it to stay in good condition instead of needing a expensive tune up in a short time.  When the car needs to have work done on it, it can be expensive and takes away from time you need in other areas.  When we get a cold that knocks us out for a week, or a trip to the doctors off, everything gets off schedule.  I like to use the mental vision of a car because most people take better care of their cars than they do themselves. 

Where can you make more time in your morning? 

Wake up just 15 minutes earlier.
Precut fruits ready.
Have oatmeal and spices in a container ready to cook.
Make you egg burritos the night before and add some hot sauce.
Make muffins the night before and make enough for a few days that week.
Have veggies cut and ready for an omelet.
The emails and news can wait to read when you're done eating.
Iron you cloths the night before and set out to have ready.
Think of breakfast as family dinner, everyone starting the morning together.  If you have children this is the time to help train them to understand the importance of breakfast. 

I have timed my breakfast items. 

These are meals I can make in less than 5 minutes. 

• Scrambled, boiled, or poached eggs and toast
• Mixed fruits, bowl
• Omelet's, when the veggies are cut the night before.
• Parfee's
• French toast
• Yogurt and fruits.
• Smoothies
• Breakfast wraps or burritos
• Oatmeal

Changing up the fruits, vegetables, sides, spices, and these can go on for months with a different breakfast meals using similar bases. 

What are some ways you can make more time to sit, chew, and eat breakfast without the rush?

Breakfast Get Creative, Keep it Fresh, and Make it Enjoyable.
Goals and Making Rewards That Help and Not Become an Obstacle
New Year's Resolutions That Work

Disclaimer: I am not paid for my announcements, news, or post. These are my opinions and thoughts. I enjoying bring my readers wonderful Companies, Events, Health News, and Green Living.

Breakfast Get Creative, Keep it Fresh, and Make it Enjoyable.

I believe that Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  You need to take the time to eat a nourishing and replenishing meal to charge your body for everything you demand of it that day.  Breakfast means "To Break a Fast".  Think about how you have gone between 5-10 hours since your last meal, and your body is digesting and resting during the night while you sleep.   If you skip your breakfast you are depleting your body even more and running on empty.  This is why people tend to need more sugary and caffeinated items to get them moving.  This week we are going to focusing on a more nutritious breakfast. 

First, you should take a look at everything you eat last week.  If you are not keeping a food journal, then you need to start, until a healthful daily diet is natural.   See what you consumed for breakfast, or if you skipped it completely.  How was your energy?  Where you craving certain foods?  How was your mood?  These are all areas that are affected by what you eat or don't eat for breakfast. 

Two of the largest obstacles for breakfast are time and organization.  Are you running late?  Is the fruit already cut up?  Are you taking the time to pack a snack and or lunch?  Are you getting the kids ready for school and to the bus stop, making sure they are all set and forgetting about your needs as well?  If you take the time to do a little planning, then breakfast will be a lot easier in the morning. 

You want to make sure you are not eating the same thing every day, because you want balance and variety, it is the spice of life.  I like to sit down and make a weekly menu of what we will be eating for all meals including snacks.  This helps me to stay organized, takes the stress out of "what to eat", and keeps me from wasting any food.  Try making a calendar with a 3 to 4 day rotation of meals.  You don't want to have an egg every morning and you don't want to have the same fruit every morning.  This variety gives you something to look forward to and keeps you satisfied.  I go a little farther and have a breakfast plate that I like to use because it has all these beautiful colors and brightens my morning. 

You want your breakfast items to be filling and to have a good source of carbohydrates to provide lasting energy.  Whether you are doing heavy lifting or sitting in a desk you need energy.
Breakfast items

• Whole grain breads, bagels, and cereals.  You want to use an Organic and nonGMO brand for these selections especially.  If you are not sure why I suggest this, please hit the GMO News tab at the top of the blog.  When you are eating breads I suggest limiting the amount of jams, butters, and other condiments as these are empty calorie items.  A little bit can give great taste and enjoyment, but use them in moderation.
• Fruits.  I love have fruit in the morning because it provides a last energy source that taste great.  Fruits have antioxidants, fats, and are lower in calories than breads and cereals.  Make the mornings easier on you by precutting up fruit and having it ready to serve. 
• Eggs, boiled, scramble, fried, omelets, and quiches will give you protein along with other needed nutrients.  I usually don't eat eggs more than 3 times a week at a max, just to keep from have too much protein in my diet.  If you are vegan than you know to use legumes as a nice filling source of energy and proteins. 
• Fresh Juices
• Smoothies provide an assortment of vitamins and nutrients that are quickly blended and can drink on the way to work or school.
• Vegetables are usually over looked as a breakfast item.  While I was in Scotland I loved my toasted tomatoes.  Oh man where those good and go wonderfully with a side of toast and fruit. 
• Add in some Yogurt, kefir, and natural cheeses.  These have protein, calcium, and carbohydrates, and other nutrients. 

Get Creative, Keep it Fresh, and Make it Enjoyable.

Have fun with your breakfast choices, this is your time to start your day off right and making a delicious breakfast and not feeling like you are rushed gives you a more relaxing day.  Breakfast sets the pace.  If your breakfast is rushed or missed you feel that same way all day long.  By using fresh ingredients you are providing your body with live foods.  These are what will heal and repair the body.  If you are eating items that can last for years on a dry shelf they may not have as much life giving nutrients.  Cereals and granolas are energy and provide life, but throw in some fresh fruits with it.  Milks can add in protein easily and you can change this up a bit with almond milks, rice milks, and coconut milks.  Change it up will give you verity and different taste.  Sit and enjoy you breakfast.  Place everything out in front of you, chew your food, and think positively about the day ahead of you.  By waking up a few minutes earlier than normal, planning your outfit, and prearranging your breakfast you can glide into your day and still sit and enjoy your breakfast.  It just takes a little planning and following through. 

Two things to start today, if you are not already doing it. 
Make a menu for this week's breakfast, and make it different each day.
Record what you are eating and how you are feeling. 

Don't stress about lunches and dinner right now, we will get to that.  This week you are just working on making more healthful breakfasts and working on starting your day right.  If you are drinking mugs of coffee you may want to cut back to one or two cups and include more juices.  Be sure to come back for some great recipes this week for breakfast, some to make a head and some easy to make in the mornings. 

Disclaimer: I am not paid for my announcements, news, or post. These are my opinions and thoughts. I enjoying bring my readers wonderful Companies, Events, Health News, and Green Living.

New Year New You Self Improvement Hop

 

We want to make this year easier for you to find everything you need to help you with a

 New Year New You! 

Every Week we will be link up with other bloggers who are sharing their tips to Self Improvement. 

This is going to be your best year EVER!

 

I am sharing this weeks post on Getting set up to make your New Years Resolutions work. 

 

New Year's Resolutions That Work

What is Negative Self-Talk and Does It Hurt Me?

Goals and Making Rewards That Help and Not Become an Obstacle

Dr Joel Furhman Video Natural Eating

Welcome....Glad you are joining us for the 

Weekly Friday

New Year New You Self Improvement Hop!

The Pitch List Bloggers 

want to make 2013 the Best Year Ever!

We read and follow GREAT Blogs!  

Blogs that have fantastic content on how to make our lives a little better!  

We thought "Let's make a weekly hop. What a GREAT way to share helpful ideas to make our lives better."

If you have a post on anyway to make 2013 better please add it to the linky!

Each Friday we will have a new linky!

Join us for a great 2013 Adventure to a Better Life!


 

Dr Joel Furhman Video Natural Eating

Dr. Joel Fuhrman talks about what is wrong with the way we eat.  There is 3 main items that we eat that are causing us to be addicted to food and causing our weight gain.  Protein, Carbohydrates, and Fats, which are all macronutrients.  We thought we were so cleaver to add vitamins and minerals to foods to make them "more healthful".  Unfortunately we are not getting enough micronutrients.  He goes on to explain how if we lack in micronutrients we over eat in the Macronutrients leading to high rates of diabetes, heart disease and more. 

When we eat a more natural food based diet of whole foods and reduce the amount of processed foods we can get these micronutrients and phytonutrients that improves health and allows the body to health, repair, and detox naturally. 
He has a wonderful way to gently bring these information to you to understand and inspire you to eat more natural.  Take a 20 minutes in your day to see this message, you'll be glad you did. 

Raw30day-Dr.JoelFurhman
To access you do add you name and email to open the video. 

Disclaimer: I am not paid for my announcements, news, or post. These are my opinions and thoughts. I enjoying bring my readers wonderful Companies, Events, Health News, and Green Living.

Goals and Making Rewards That Help and Not Become an Obstacle

We are all pumped and motivated to improve ourselves and have set some New Year's Resolutions of some kind.  So how to make our goals and what should we use as rewards or motivation?

 

With all goals you should make them obtainable but still a challenge. 
You know yourself best and know if you are someone motivated by a challenge or if you are the person that throws in the towel early.  Knowing yourself is a vital part of change.  You want to give yourself the tools to help you make those changes.  Some people are motivated by a huge challenge while others see that same challenge as an un-climbable mountain.  Take this into consideration when making your goals. 
Here is an example for someone who wants to lose 30 -50 lbs. 
I am going to lose _____ lbs for this year and will meet half the goal by June. 

List the reasons you want to obtain better health and wellness.  This is your accountability tool, and means to motivate you for success.  You need to know what your goals are so you can rejoice in the accomplishments and make adjustments on the areas still requiring further development. 

Rewards are a great motivation to keep you on track and to inspire you onward.  Sometimes these rewards can be negative and hurtful to us.  Say you are trying to lose some weight; you don't want to reward yourself with a night out at your favorite restaurant.  The next morning you might get on the scale and see 5 lbs back on that you worked so hard to remove.  Something you need to remember about weight loss is that your body is set at what it thinks is it normal weight, a set point.  When you lose weight your body might think that it has been in a fight or flight scenario and will look to put weight back were its set at.  When you lose weight you have to maintain that weight for a few months, to a year, for your body to reset its set point.  Frustrating I know, but true none the less.  This is why you NEVER reward with foods, desserts, or things that you have been omitting from your diet.  These are not rewards you need to look at them as SETBACKS.

 

What can be rewards?

I will share with you a few of my personal rewards I have set for myself. 
These are rewards that I have set for different times through the year with a larger reward in December. 

• Pedicure
• New Cook Books
• Movie night
• Golf
• New Jeans
• Hairstyle makeover
• Massage
• Shopping spree $$
• Wrap and Massage
• Spa Weekend:  This is my huge December/January reward.  A weekend at one of my favorite hotels with a spa package, facial, message, pedicure, and healthy dishes.  A time of relaxation and reward for the hard work of all year.  I am someone who likes to visualize my goal.  I also have all year to save up for it, slowly. 

I work my body hard and am sore a lot.  I like rewards that pamper my body, there are many rewards you can chose that are better for you. 
Movie, workout DVD, workout outfit, new running gear, a RACE (love this one), any workout gear, books, makeovers, jewelry, adding to your backyard garden, you get the idea.  These are things that you want to have, but you will work hard for them with not setbacks. 

 

Don't go making these too easy to obtain. 

If you are someone who needs smaller challenges then think about weekly rewards with a bigger monthly reward.  You can get really creative with this; just remember to keep it positive and a challenge. 

 

New Year's Resolutions That Work

You should be working on your food journal.  Remember to look back and evaluate what you have been eating the calorie amounts and how it is affecting your weight gain or loss. 

What is Negative Self-Talk and Does It Hurt Me?

Have you made your positive affirmations to repeat and motivate you?  Here is an awesome example of a friends workspace she made to keep her motivated and strong.  Make your own this weekend!

 

Disclaimer: I am not paid for my announcements, news, or post. These are my opinions and thoughts. I enjoying bring my readers wonderful Companies, Events, Health News, and Green Living.

 

Kombucha Wonder Drink Giveaway

I Love Kombucha Wonder Drink.  So many wonderful flavors and is a healthful drink. 

If you missed my Review be sure to check it out here.

 

There will be four winners for week one!  Good luck! 

Week of #2 – 4 giftpacks 1/14/13

Week of #3 – 4 giftpacks 1/21/13

Week of #4 – 4 giftpacks 1/28/13

Week of #5 – 4 giftpacks 2/4/13

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: No purchase is necessary to enter. Void where prohibited by law. The odds of winning are based on the number of entries received. This promotion is no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook and is Facebook-compliant. Winners will be notified by email from a ‘Pitch List ‘ Blog. Winners will have 72 hours to respond or risk forfeiting their prize. Prize fulfillment is the sole responsibility of the sponsor. The blogs participating may not be held liable for Sponsors who do not fulfill prize shipments.

Tropical Yogurt Good Eatin' Hop

Today's recipe is super easy and delicious.

Tropical Yogurt                                                                

1/2 cup of Vanilla Fat Free Organic Yogurt

1/4 cup of chopped organic mango

2 tbsp. raw organic coconut flakes

 

 

Whether you have for breakfast, snack, or a dessert this is a tasty healthy choice for 2013.

 

Welcome to the Good Eatin' Recipe Hop

hosted by

The 'Pitch List' Bloggers

Every Tuesday you can join us to share great recipes.........

There are no specific themes. 
Add your recipe of choice to the linky.

No Giveaways Please...all giveaways will be removed.

We Love Comments! Please Share!

 

What is Negative Self-Talk and Does It Hurt Me?

What is Negative Self-Talk?

Just like the saying you are what you eat, you are what you THINK.  It is important to notice when we are being too hard on ourselves and use negative self-talk.  For most, we do this so often that we are unaware that we do it and how to deal with it.  Think of your mind as a computer with its set programing of mental thoughts.  We have to identify the statements that have been programed to use and reset them. 

Your thoughts affect how you react to situations in life and most of the time we use them to motivate and inspire us on.  Unfortunately we use these statements to create pressure more than inspiration.  You know the feeling of when a paper or report is due and the deadline is approaching.  We use negative self-talk to make sure we getting it done.  While it helps to get us moving it also creates stress that builds and affects our health.  When we stress and do not relieve or reduce that stress we can cause our bodies to gain weight, lower our immune functions, and create a downwards spiral to ill health.

When it comes to your New Year's Resolutions, motivate yourself with positive affirmations and delete the Negative self-talk. 

Recognize when you use Negativity Self-Talk 

You are in a inner dialog of negative self-talk all day long.  About 75% of what we say to ourselves is used against us by ourselves.  Maybe some of it was said to us over and over in school, home, work, but we have to change it.  If you have statements or thoughts that have these phrases in them then you need to start with those.

• I can't
• I don't
• I'm sorry
• I tried           
• I can't finish this
• It won't be in time
• It's not good enough, it's not clean enough
• I wish I had more energy
• I doubt
•  All these indicate failure and you want to motivate not demean.  How many of these do you say daily?  You can change them around to say "I will and I can!"  I know I use to say these statements to myself often throughout the day in just my chores and schedule.  I looked at my accomplishments with negative influence that it was done, but not the way I wanted it.  I learned to say "look at all I accomplished today", instead of what had to be left for tomorrow.  I learned that not everything goes as planned and I stayed positive in my work.  This decreased my stress and helped me be a better Stay at Home mom. 

When situations arise we tend to bring up old emotions of negative self-talk because it becomes habit.  This becomes a stressor that results in anxiety and a state of chronic stress.  This is where we will break this cycle with Positive Affirmations.

Our mind stores past experiences, beliefs, and ideas, just like a computer.  But like any computer they are only as good as the information that is stored in it.  You control what is put in your computer (mind), and it is important to program your memory bank with positive, healthful thoughts. 

 

5 Steps to a positive healthy mind

• Presentence.  State your desire as if it has already happened.  “I am relaxed and calm", do not say a want to be relaxed and calm, you want to claim that it already is.  Do not say "I will get organized" but rather, “I am well organized".  You are training your thoughtful state to feel the phrase and it is something that becomes automatic. 
• Make it Personal.  Use the word I or your name.  “I am healthy and happy". 
• Use positive phrases only.  Do not say, "I will not lose my temper".  What happens is your mind pictures you blowing up or yelling?  It recalls the results of the negative what it.  In stead say, "I am calm and relaxed", or "my emotions are correctly expressed".  I am not saying so not express your feelings or to suppress them, but rather to give your self positive memories to over come the stressor to stay calm and manage the emotions that are arising.  Affirmations help you to relax and understand your behavior. 
• Be specific.  If you want to lose weight that make it about that fact.  First visualize yourself as the person you wish to be.  Make this a picture to carry with you.  Phrase:  “I am losing weight healthy and I am 10 pounds lighter", and see yourself happy, healthy, and the ten lbs gone. 
• Be realistic.  If you want to make $100,000 next year and your current income is $30, 000, then this is not a realistic affirmation.  If you are 50 lbs over weight and you want to be 50 lbs lighter in 2 weeks this is not realistic.  Make a plan of increase or decrease within a realistic level. “I am 5 lbs lighter this week".  Or "I will be making $5, 000 more next year".  When we have a goal of realistic affirmations our mind looks to make that happen. 

 

For affirmations to work you must repeat them. 

You want to pick 3-4 phrases and repeat them throughout the day. 

• Say your affirmations before bed and when waking. 
• Say them when relaxing or meditating on the affirmation. 
• Say your affirmation both in your mind and say aloud.  Hearing the affirmation reinforces the message.  Be sure to listen and believe. 
• Write down your affirmations.  When we see them in writing it makes a strong visual connection. 
• Repeat your affirmations into the mirror.  This will create rapid changes to see you and hear your voice saying and owning the affirmation.

  Examples

Find a quite place or a place of comfort.  Breathe in deep through your nose and out deep through your mouth.  Slow your breathing to deep breaths in and out. 

1.  "I am calm and relaxed".  Breathe in and out slowly.

2.  "Everyday in everyway I am getting better and better".  Or “Healthier and Healthier" Breath in and out slowly.

3.  "I am filled with energy all day long".  "  am getting Stronger and Stronger"

Breathe in and out slowly.

See yourself as these imagines. 

 

What are some Positive Affirmations you will start using today?

 

Be sure to see yesterdays Post on New Year's Resolutions That Work. 

This is your year to make some awesome changes. 

 

Disclaimer: I am not paid for my announcements, news, or post. These are my opinions and thoughts. I enjoying bring my readers wonderful Companies, Events, Health News, and Green Living.

New Year's Resolutions That Work

Happy New Year!! 

I am so excited about 2013, because this year is going to be all about a New You!

We are going to make it simple to make gradual changes in our health, fitness, and natural living.

I think America needs a little help in getting back to our roots, eating for health, and living simply.  Now I am not asking us to go back to Little House on the Prairie, or that we need to be as drastic as the show Revolution, but we need to make some changes and it starts with you.
 

 

The problem with New Year's Resolutions is that we getting all excited, make HUGE changes, and look at it as a short term thing.  Whether you want to improve health, get more fitness, or lose the weight, you have to look at this as a lifelong change.  If you are planning on doing this like a diet, than I am sorry but it will not last. 

 

Before you throw out all your junk food, processed foods, and buy up everything you can find in the produce section, I ask you to look at your normal schedule now.  You may already now your daily diet is lacking in vegetables and nutritious foods, but when you make changes you have to know where you are starting from.  I have noticed when people go all in and hit the "health kick" they do amazing for the first week or two, and then go on an all-out binge or just throw in the towel completely.  Want we want to do is make gradual changes so you will change just a few things a week and when you look back in a few months you don't even remember the change.  This makes it easier on you and your household.  Usually, I don't ever tell my family when we have changed something, I just do it gradual and they never even knew.   

Nutrition is a process. 

You will not be able to just change everything overnight.  It is actually going to be difficult in the beginning, with reading labels and making menus.  I am not discouraging you, but I do want you to be aware that it is a challenge for most.  In about five months you will be surprised how much has changed and how most decisions become an afterthought of good choices.  When things are changed gradual, always moving forward, you no longer have to struggle like you might have in the beginning.

Here are a few things to understand and know where to start.   

• Know that you have to make a conscious decision to make the change.  We usually think it will be too much work and we say "I can't do this; it’s too much to change".  Stop that thinking and erase it from your memory.
• When we identify the objects that are in our life and weigh them against the benefits, we take the objects out of the equation or they lose their weight of a negative influence.  After all we are looking to change our nutrition for the benefit of better health and life.  So what could possibly be so much more important than our children and family members’ health and wellness? 
• Do not be hard on yourself that you do not know where to start and what all the labels mean.  That is why it is a gradual change to learn and to heal the body in a gradual more beneficial way.

Some of the Negative self-talk you might be saying right now.  

• My child is a picky eater
• Nutrition is too expensive
• My schedule is too busy
• It’s too confusing
• It’s just too hard......YOU CAN DO THIS.  Some of these obstacles that are keeping you from changing are real but here are a few things to take into consideration. 

Know that others before you, including myself, have successfully brought health in to their lives.  We are not reinventing the wheel here; we are making things simpler and taking the gimmicks out of it.  Know that as you building the foundation of health for your family, your child is receiving a better future and an inheritance that money can't buy.  Taking the steps now will also help teach your child healthy choices to take with them into their adulthood.  Know that this is your decision and no one can stop you from having a better life and better healthier home.

 

This week: Journal everything and make your goals.

 

If you have a smart phone I recommend the app "Lose it", this is what I use to log my exercises and food.  When we see what we are eating every day it helps give us perspective into where we need to make changes.  The great thing about the app is that it also gives you calorie count.  This will help you see why the Value Meals are not really a value.  Why some snacks are not as satisfying as you think when you can blow 30 minutes of exercise on one handful of chips.

NO apps No problem.  I recommend picking up a journal or notebook that is easy to carry with you everywhere.  You want convenience and something to big and bulky will become an obstacle, make it easy on yourself.  What you will be writing down each day is everything you put to your lips: drinks, water, food, snacks, mints, candy, everything.  You will want to write next to that entry whether you brought from home, fast-food, vending machine, convenience store and such.  If you are purchasing your food out, I recommend writing the price next to that entry.  This was a huge eye opener for a few of my clients.  When they really saw how much they were spending on daily purchases that compared it to groceries and found that healthy eating was more affordable and saved them money. 

 

I recommend a gradual move into fitness.  You don't have to go out and get a membership at the Gym, start with walking around your neighborhood, a community park, or a simple at home workout video.  You don't have to go full force just start moving and you will want to log this as well.  What you did, for how long, and how far.  Fitness should be fun and a stress reliever.  In the beginning you can be very creative.  Last night as we brought in the New Year, we rented Just Dance for the Wii.  I am a fit woman and I loved the workout I got while laughing and dancing.  We like to take family bike rides, hike, swim, and so forth.  The idea is just start moving.  Most people find that when they mark their calendars and actually schedule it they make that appointment, so you can try that as well.

 

Make your Goals for the Year. 

This is your visual motivation.  When making your goals, word them in a positive manor and make them obtainable.  Sometimes we make goals that are beyond are limit say, I am going to lose 50 lbs. in 3 months, while you might be able to do that we are going to focus on healthy weight changes that come off and stay off.  The idea is to make changes that have you eating foods that support a healthy weight and the weight is no longer a concern.  Here is an example of a friends goals for this year. 

To lose 30 LBS, to be GMO free in at least 75% of all foods, and to run a Half Marathon.  I told her that these were wonderful goals, they are obtainable, and they are positive. 

 

Come back for post that will be supporting these changes.

What is Negative Self-Talk and how to avoid it. 
Goals and Making Rewards that help and not become an obstacle.

What is Nutrition and What are Non-Foods.
Getting Organized
What are you doing to get moving with ideas for Fun Family Fitness?

Next Week~ Changes in Breakfast Only. 

 

What are your Goals or Thoughts about a New You 2013?

 

Disclaimer: I am not paid for my announcements, news, or post. These are my opinions and thoughts. I enjoying bring my readers wonderful Companies, Events, Health News, and Green Living.