tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660694895097226742024-03-13T18:31:06.362-04:00VEGVACIOUSMaking the journey from the ordinary to extraordinary...I'm chasing the "good" life through healthy eating, fitness and positive thinking....follow me to where this girl has never gone before.Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.comBlogger348125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-23238721844243445822014-01-24T13:33:00.002-05:002014-01-24T13:36:22.864-05:00Whoa, it's been a while...Hi there! <br />
<br />
Wow, it's been a looonnnnggg time since I last posted! Last year was a really difficult one for our family and I needed to focus on being a strong support and unfortunately I let the blog go as a result. <br />
<br />
The good news is that I am back! I was toying with the idea of giving the blog up completely, but I've set some new goals for myself for 2014 and I've dedicated 2014 to living in the moment and finding joy with every new day. Fortunately for Vegvacious and all my wonderful peeps, this is one creative outlet that I've been missing like cah-razy and I couldn't imagine completely removing myself from the blogging world. <br />
<br />
I'm in the midst of making some layout changes, deciding what I want to post about (um, some DIY projects are in your future my friends!) and changing my focus a wee bit to living my life to the absolute fullest and not just with respect to food and fitness. <br />
<br />
I'm planning my official launch to be the week of February 2, 2014, so please check back.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, if you're just dying for a tidbit of information as to what I'm up to, click the <a href="http://www.fannetasticfood.com/winter-shape-up-2014/">Winter Shape Up 2014</a> button on the right side of the screen and join in. I'm planning to follow along over the next 4 weeks and will be checking in here, on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter! <br />
<br />
Love you guys, <br />
<br />
Andrea <br />
xoAndrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-7492564921232716542013-07-22T11:59:00.000-04:002013-07-22T12:00:04.011-04:00Week 1 - The Plans <div style="text-align: justify;">
Hiya! So I am well into week 1 of my <a href="http://www.vegvacious.blogspot.ca/2013/07/15-week-challenge.html">15 Week Transformation</a> and so far things are good. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I did my first official weigh-in early Saturday morning before my first cup o' joe and then it was full steam ahead. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've never been a person to track calories, nutrition stats, etc. but I have decided to use <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/">My Fitness Pal</a> to track what I'm eating. I want to reduce the amount of calories I'm eating in a day and more importantly what I find really helps when tracking my eats is seeing the reality of how many calories I consume in a day - sometimes that number can be kinda shocking!!! I <em>love</em> that My Fitness Pal offers a phone app because I use it constantly! It's great for meal planning and for deterring me from picking up a great big slice of pizza for lunch!! </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RDHoRuhzln0/Ue1L5dgt-9I/AAAAAAAADbQ/E9EsNZetyhs/s1600/Screenshot.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RDHoRuhzln0/Ue1L5dgt-9I/AAAAAAAADbQ/E9EsNZetyhs/s400/Screenshot.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My goals this week are pretty simple: <br />
<br />
(1) Drink 48oz/day of water;<br />
(2) Workout 4 -5 days with one of those days including some strength training; <br />
(3) Add some yoga into my mornings to help relax and prepare me for the stressful workday;<br />
(4) Eat well everyday!! <br />
<br />
I've stocked my fridge with tons of healthy options, so here's some of the eats I'll be enjoying this week: <br />
<br />
*eggs & egg whites<br />
*avocados<br />
*lots of fresh produce - right now raspberries, cherries, cukes, zucchini, peaches, plums & green beans are in season - I stopped at a local orchard yesterday and loaded up!!! <br />
*brown rice<br />
* salads - one salad a day is the goal --- check out my <a href="http://pinterest.com/veggieandrea/salad-a-day/">Salad A Day</a> Pinterest board <br />
*Greek yogourt - I totally {swoon} over coconut<br />
*protein shakes - I have Vega and Body by Vi right now and lots of frozen berries & mangoes to use<br />
*beans<br />
*veggie sausages <br />
<br />
Workouts: <br />
<br />
M - undecided between zumba and a circuit I've been wanting to do<br />
T - spin<br />
W - yoga<br />
T - zumba<br />
F - rest<br />
S - run day (at the beach!!!!) <br />
<br />
<em>*Somewhere in there I also need to fit in some strength training*</em><br />
<br />
So that's my week in a nutshell. At the end of the week, I'll let you know how I did! <br />
<br />
<strong><em>Do you have any plans or goals in the works right now? </em></strong><br />
<br />
Have a great day!! <br />
<br />
Andrea <br />
xoxo<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="http://fitceleb.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/199565827208090674_jCFtI8i4_f.jpg" width="330" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://fitceleb.com/pinterest-wednesday-fitness-motivation-4/">Source</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Amen to that!!! </div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-18250790141573616812013-07-19T16:28:00.003-04:002013-07-19T16:28:56.399-04:0015 Week ChallengeGood morning!! <br />
<br />
So clearly things are changing here on this little ol' blog of mine. Quite frankly, I've lost my flow. Life has taken priority and every time I think about what I want to share with you, I just can't come up with anything awesome. <br />
<br />
One thing that's happened to me this year (that I am less than impressed with I might add) is that I have gained some weight. Blame it on stress, the fact that I'm so tired by the end of the workday that I frequently have been skipping the gym, the chaos that has been our life or the fact that we now have a family cottage that I go to regularly, which makes me feel like I'm constantly on vacation, which translates into beer, fry shacks and big greasy breakfasts.<br />
<br />
Regardless of why it's happened, the fact is that it has and now I have to do something about it. <br />
<br />
....SO, what's the plan????<br />
<br />
Let's just say I've decided to start a <strong><em><span style="color: magenta;">15 Week "Get Fit! Eat Clean!" Transformation Plan</span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: magenta;"></span></em></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-js9rlC8VI/UUHsgDd3oHI/AAAAAAAADVM/1YWTBAmAQV8/s1600/GOALS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-js9rlC8VI/UUHsgDd3oHI/AAAAAAAADVM/1YWTBAmAQV8/s320/GOALS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
<br />
I chose 15 weeks because we have a family trip to Disney World planned from November 2 - 10 and it is exactly 15 weeks `til then. <br />
<br />
The long-term goals I hope to reach at the end of the 15 weeks are: <br />
<br />
*To lose 25lbs<br />
*To re-gain the muscle definition in my arms and back <br />
*Get back to my weekly yoga class that brings so much "zen" to my life<br />
*To start preparing meals at home again {Gah! - I've never eaten so much takeout in my life!!!}<br />
*Eat local, eat organic as much as possible ---- re-develop these as my regular habits<br />
*Get more comfortable with weight training and incorporate that into my weekly workouts<br />
*Establish a workout schedule that I can follow consistently that includes 4 to 5 workouts per week<br />
*BE COMFORTABLE IN MY OWN SKIN AGAIN<br />
<br />
My plan is to update you weekly on my planned workouts and eats and then at the end of each week to give you the lowdown on how I did. Throw in some fun workout ideas, new recipes (OMG, a new recipe --- it's been FOREVAH!!!) and I just might get this little blog of mine back up & running. <br />
<br />
So that's the direction I'm heading in and hopefully I'll figure out exactly where I want to go with the blog and a new direction will become clear to me. <br />
<br />
Take care, have a great weekend and I will see you very soon with the plans for Week #1!!<br />
<br />
Andrea Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-50546047112402931752013-06-03T15:56:00.002-04:002013-06-03T15:56:22.921-04:00a whole lotta things<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, it's been a while since we last chatted and there's a lot of things that I want to share. So guess what.....you guys are about to get a great big brain dump to bring you up to speed. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
on your mark. get set. GO!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. I seriously don't know what we'd do without these two characters. We haven't had the time, or at times, patience that they usually receive and deserve, yet they have been amazing. They are a constant source of love, loyalty and comedic relief. Here, they're {im}patiently waiting for their dad to get home. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/246610_10151371283666472_123420128_n.jpg" width="300" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. I have recently discovered a love/hate relationship with soft serve half & half ice cream. Dipped in chocolate, rolled in sprinkles, stuffed deep inside a waffle cone --- yep, I pretty much love it all ways. I crave it every day because my tastebuds love it, but my butt ... not so much. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. Derek's mom has bought a cottage on a nearby lake. Clearly the ice cream has got to stop if I'm going to spend my weekends on the beach. She takes possession of it on Friday and I am so excited to spend our summer together up there! I've already picked out <strike>my</strike> our bedroom. What else am I excited about?! --- frozen boozy drinks.....apparently all the neighbours go to the beach each night to watch the sunset with their favourite bevy. My classy plastic wine glass is already packed. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. In preparation for the summer months, I'm super excited to be participating in the <a href="http://fitnessista.com/">Fitnessista</a>'s <a href="http://fitnessista.com/2013/06/summer-shape-up-2013-intro-post/">Summer Shape Up 2013</a>, which starts TODAY!! This is the first week in the past 5 where I actually have a plan in terms of workouts and meals and it feels good. It's not too late if you want to participate. Just check out Gina's intro post <a href="http://fitnessista.com/2013/06/summer-shape-up-2013-intro-post/">here</a> and sign up </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. My bestie, Krista, is coming home for a visit in one month and five days and she and her family are staying for most of the summer. We make a point of doing yoga together on Saturdays and have a weekly date night for dinner and wine. I. CAN'T. WAIT.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" class="spotlight" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/p206x206/599195_10152239815525106_1577519808_n.jpg" width="265" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6. Derek and I are hoping to put an addition on our house this summer. We're in the planning/getting quotes stage and while I'm dreading the mess and chaos, I am really looking forward to re-decorating our existing home and planning out the new portion. I figure, if we're going to have a huge-ass mess, why not re-do the entire house while we're at it?! My inner design-diva has come alive and I have become addicted to this <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/">blog</a>. I have plans to start vision boards with new designs for every single room in my house. My husband is thrilled, NOT. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7. My family has booked a Disney trip for later this year. Derek's never been to Disney World and I am really excited to take him and to see my neice and nephew discover the Disney magic for the first time. Personally, I'm most excited for the Animal Kingdom and the water parks. If you have any "must dos" in Orlando, let me know....my parents were planning the trip, but my sister and I have taken that job over. We're kinda bossy that way. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8. And lastly, congratulations to some of my favourite bloggers: to <a href="http://www.eatliverun.com/">Jenna</a> and <a href="http://laughterstrengthfood.com/?p=8671">Kelly</a> on their recent weddings and to <a href="http://www.thesmallthingsblog.com/">Kate</a> on her wonderful news! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, I think that's all I've got for today. What's new & exciting in your neck of the woods? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
See you in a couple of days with a swoon-worthy recipe, </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Andrea </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
xoxo</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-71388338565563065002013-05-30T13:30:00.001-04:002013-05-30T13:30:07.435-04:00back at lastSo, you might have noticed that I've been away from the blog for an extended period of time. Sadly and unexpectedly, my father-in-law passed away on April 28th. It has been a devastating loss for my husband and his family, so I have been focusing on what's really important in life: FAMILY. <br />
<br />
<em>Sometimes, life just isn't fair. </em><br />
<br />
Over the past couple of weeks, the blog has been on my mind, but I just didn't have anything to say and since we've been eating a lot of takeout and grilled cheese sandwiches, I didn't even have any foodie photos to share with you. <br />
<br />
Finally, my creative juices have started flowing and I'm feeling like it's time to start back up both in the kitchen and here in my special little corner of the world wide web....so, if you're still here and reading, I want to thank you for not giving up on me. I have lots of fun summer adventures in the works, some new recipes to try and lots of new things I've been trying out that you really must stay tuned for. <br />
<br />
See you soon, <br />
<br />
Andrea<br />
xoxoAndrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-51207123678256139252013-04-17T16:09:00.000-04:002013-04-17T16:10:57.664-04:00Review & Giveaway Time: Vega One Nutrition Bars<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hey friends! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So a while back I was contacted by <a href="http://myvega.com/">Vega </a>and asked if I'd like to be part of their new Team Vega! Um, do you think I even needed to think about it ---- I have been a long-time lover of the Vega products, so I immediately said YES!!!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1366219311382_8695" style="text-align: justify;">
In a nutshell, Team Vega is a community of like-minded athletes, health and fitness leaders across North America who are passionate about Vega products, and understand how clean plant-based nutrition can help transform overall health and performance. I am so honoured to be part of this team <3!!!! </div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Y'all know that I've been really focussed on maintaining a clean diet and I have to say that I whole-heartedly agree with Vega's <a href="http://myvega.com/about/guiding-principles">guiding principles for plant-based nutrition</a>. Eating a well-balance, clean, plant-based diet leaves me feeling energized and refreshed. I sleep better, I rarely have mid-afternoon lulls and I <em>never</em> experience that heavy bloated feeling I used to get after eating a big meal. Dare I say my body's starting to look a heck of alot better as well?! </div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
If you`ve thought about making the leap to clean eating and/or vegetarianism or veganism and you want to learn more about the benefits, you should definitely check out Brendan Brazier`s <a href="http://thriveforward.com/">Thrive Forward</a> program. It`s a free, personalized program to help you transform your health and performance through plant-based nutrition. I joined up for this program when it first was launched and there is so much valuable information that you are given access to. </div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Eating well and taking proper care of your health impacts every.single.aspect.of.YOUR.life.</div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
One of the perks of being part of this fabulous team is that I get the opportunity to try out and review new products and I recently had the pleasure of trying out the <a href="http://myvega.com/products/vega-one-bar/features-benefits">Vega One Nutrition Bars</a>. </div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Do you love receiving surprise packages in the mail as much as I do?! I was so excited to receive these!! </div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/74436_10151306869826472_1161547209_n.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
These new bars hit the shelves in mid-March and come in 3 delicious flavours: Double Chocolate, Chocolate Cherry and Chocolate Almond. </div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1366219311382_16941" style="text-align: justify;">
<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1366219311382_16944" style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">"They're made from natural, plant-based, whole food ingredients, and packed with vitamins and minerals, 15g protein, 6g fiber, 1.5g Omega-3, plus antioxidants, probiotics and greens. They're gluten-free and contain no artificial flavors, colors or sweeteners"....and most importantly, they're dipped in CHOCOLATE!!! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One thing that I absolutely LOVE about the Vega One bars are that you can actually see the whole ingredients within the bar: different seeds, chunks of almonds....it's all there so you can SEE what you're eating and feel confident that you are getting the best quality nutrition in every bite. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To say that these bars taste good would be an understatement. I loved all 3 flavours!! They're quite dense, which makes them very satisfying, and they have a perfect amount of sweetness and a little crunch too! If I had to choose a favourite, I'd have to say the Chocolate Almond, although the other flavours came in a very close second. I have enjoyed these for breakfast on mornings when I'm running late and need to eat on the fly and I've also enjoyed them when I'm on my way from work straight to the gym and need some fuel to tide me over until I get home for dinner. <br />
<br />
Because I loved these bars so much and I think they are a great way to stay on track with your clean and healthy eating when life gets hectic, I thought that YOU, my fabulous readers, should have a chance to try them for yourselves. SO, I have decided to offer a giveaway for one lucky reader to receive 3 Vega One bars (one in each flavour). <br />
<br />
To enter, please leave a comment telling me what flavour you most want to try. To earn a second entry, tweet about the giveaway and then leave a second comment telling me that you did (make sure you include your Twitter handle please!). Your tweet could go a little somethin' like this: <br />
<br />
<strong><em>I just entered a giveaway for a pack of the new #VegaOne Nutrition bars from @Vegvacious. #ThriveFwd </em></strong><br />
<br />
Contest is open to residents of Canada and the USA. The contest shall remain open until 11:59 p.m. EST on Saturday and the winner will be announced in Monday's post. Good Luck!!! </div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal">
<br />
Have a great day!<br />
<br />
Andrea<br />
xoxo<br />
<br />
<em>*Vega provided me with these bars free of charge, but this review and all opinions contained herein are completely my own. The products offered in this giveaway have been purchased by me.*</em></div>
<div class="yiv1933050161MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-49260669615541282562013-04-16T09:41:00.000-04:002013-04-16T09:41:01.403-04:00Thoughts & Prayers with Boston TodayThere are no words for what happened yesterday at the Boston Marathon. It didn't seem right to continue on with regularly scheduled posting ~ the victims of yesterday's violent attack need to know that we love and support them through this difficult time. <br />
<br />
Sending my thoughts, love and prayers to Boston today. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Pinned Image" id="pinCloseupImage" src="http://media-cache-ak1.pinimg.com/550x/44/ca/3b/44ca3b2b262a6e98a79b3335b853af15.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Source: </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/32369691044346135/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pinterest</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> via </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/melissa_taylor2/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Melissa Taylor</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Andrea</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
xo</div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-43097083269822105062013-04-11T11:40:00.002-04:002013-04-11T11:40:41.631-04:00Strawberry Vanilla Protein Oats (Slow Cooker Style)<div style="text-align: justify;">
So is it Spring or isn't it?! Mother Nature is seeming a little confused these days. One day it's warm and sunny and the next it's gray and frigid. We had some glimpses of Springtime weather on Tuesday morning and since then have pretty much been experiencing a monsoon.....okay, so maybe I'm being a wee bit dramatic, but we've had some crazy thunder, rainy downpours and the weatherman is calling for a chance of wet snow or freezing rain today today. AWESOME {<em>enter sarcasm here} </em>I think we can all agree that we are done with winter and want the snow to take a hike, but it just doesn't seem to want to let us go. I bought a couple {read: five} new pairs of flats that I'm dying to wear, but I made an attempt with them yesterday and my feet received a royal soaking. Today, I'm back to boots. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My cravings have been all over the board because of this weather too. One day I'm craving fresh green salads with lots of veggies and my favourite honey dijon dressing and the next day I'm thinking about making a crockpot full of veggie stew. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last night, I decided that I needed to make a crockpot full of steel cut oatmeal for breakfast. I decided to try a new strawberry vanilla combo, so I could get a little Springtime with the berries while at the same time getting the warm and cozy comfort of the oatmeal. This combo turned out to be delicious! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I also decided to add some protein powder to my oats, which is something I've never done before. I recently became a member of Team <a href="http://www.myvega.com/">Vega</a> {an entire post dedicated to this amazing company and their equally amazing products will be coming very soon} and they provided me with a sample pack of products to try - I decided that their <a href="http://shopca.myvega.com/vega/Vega-Nutritional-Products/vega-one-nutritional-shake-french-vanilla-large-tub-canada">Vega One French Vanilla Nutritional Shake</a> powder would be a perfect compliment to my strawberry oats. This flavour is the bomb-digity of protein powders!!!!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HxVhJPjtmxo/UWbNYnkkKqI/AAAAAAAADXk/FxeX7qdmwGY/s1600/Vega+Shake1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bua="true" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HxVhJPjtmxo/UWbNYnkkKqI/AAAAAAAADXk/FxeX7qdmwGY/s400/Vega+Shake1.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
What I ended up with was an amazing new oatmeal that I insist you've got to try. It's Springtime meets comfort food and it is SO.GOOD!!!!!</div>
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-moXMH6VRz7Y/UWbVaWluRlI/AAAAAAAADYA/f5F_49YxD3c/s1600/Strawberry+Oats1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bua="true" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-moXMH6VRz7Y/UWbVaWluRlI/AAAAAAAADYA/f5F_49YxD3c/s400/Strawberry+Oats1.jpg" width="335" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">
<strong><u>Strawberry Vanilla Slow Cooker Protein Oats</u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Serves 2</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
1/2 c steel cut oats</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 c unsweetened original almond milk (or milk of your choice)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3/4 c water</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 package vanilla-flavoured protein powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp pure vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp sea salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 c frozen sliced strawberries (fresh would probably work)<br />
<br />
Optional Toppings: favourite nut butter, maple syrup, coconut or chopped pecans</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Note: I used my small hot dip slow cooker for this recipe. It works perfectly or you could use Janetha's instructions<a href="http://mealsandmovesblog.com/2012/03/20/slow-cooked-steel-cut-oats/"> here</a> for using a larger sized slow cooker. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Grease your slow cooker with coconut oil or non-stick spray. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker and stir well to combine. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Cook on low for 8 hours. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Serve and enjoy. Sometimes I like to add a spoonful of plain non-fat Greek yogourt to my oats and sometimes I eat them topped with chopped fruit, a drizzle of syrup (perfect way to add more sweetness for all you sweet lovers out there) or a big glob of melty nut butter. Either way will rock your socks off! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I prepare my oatmeal in the evening and let the slow cooker simmer away all night long. When I get up in the morning, I open my bedroom door to the mouthwatering aroma of freshly made oatmeal. It's such a nice way to start your day! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><em>Are you craving fresh produce and all foods associated with Spring or are you still enjoy all the comfort foods of winter? </em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have a great day!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Andrea</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
xoxo</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-1527141915341159732013-04-08T10:42:00.000-04:002013-04-08T10:42:59.191-04:00Fancy Up Your Water + My Plan for the Week<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hi guys! I have missed you SOOOO much!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Derek and I had an awesome vacation away in Nashville and then at my parents for an extended Easter holiday! (I'm hoping to do a great big photo dump for you from our time away ----stay tuned!!)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As much as I love vacationing, it's always good to be home ----- we love going away but we always miss the dogs so much and my body always thanks me for getting back into a normal food and workout routine.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When we got home, our refrigerator was E-M-P-T-Y. I didn't have time to get groceries until Saturday, so we lived on egg white scrambles, cottage cheese and any other scrap of food we could find. As you know, I have a weakness for groceries and hate having an empty fridge, so on Friday night, I worked out our menu for this week and I was up and at 'em first thing on Saturday morning, to rectify our food situation. I think it's safe to say that we are replenished. We can't fit a single thing in the fridge right now; especially after we had a family birthday dinner last night, which resulted in lots and lots of leftovers for Derek.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pdwFF6KlqWY/UWILldhhVBI/AAAAAAAADWo/O1jBuzcbEtk/s1600/2013-04-07+19.13.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" mta="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pdwFF6KlqWY/UWILldhhVBI/AAAAAAAADWo/O1jBuzcbEtk/s400/2013-04-07+19.13.19.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've planned out a week of healthy clean meals --- here's what's on the menu this week: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Monday - Leftovers from Sunday's dinner (Derek) - Asparagus & Swiss Egg White Omlet (Me) </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tuesday - Caprese-style Crustless Quiche (recipe on its way y'all) & Mixed Greens</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wednesday - Mixed Greens with Roasted Sweet Potato, Pepitas & Goat Cheese (me) - Stuffed Chicken & Baked Potatoes (Derek)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thursday - Out for Derek's Birthday!!! xoxoxoxo</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Friday - BBQ Tofu with Roasted Turnip & Sauteed Greens</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In addition to my clean eating goals, I'm also going to focus on my water intake this week. As you know, I constantly struggle with this, so I'm going to try "fancying up" my water with some fruits and herbs in an attempt to tickle my tastebuds with a little more of the wet stuff. My yoga instructor recently posted this cleansing combo on her facebook page, so I thought I'd give it a try. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Combine 3L of water with 2 sliced lemons, 1/2 a cucumber and 10 - 12 fresh mint leaves. Infuse overnight and then drink up! Today is the first time I'll be trying this combo, so I'll let you know how it goes. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4eV4zHaTT8E/UWIW4LboixI/AAAAAAAADXI/MhBNkBD7zac/s1600/2013-04-07+20.06.13%255B2%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" mta="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4eV4zHaTT8E/UWIW4LboixI/AAAAAAAADXI/MhBNkBD7zac/s400/2013-04-07+20.06.13%255B2%255D.jpg" width="222" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With respect to this week's workouts, I'm planning to try some new lunchtime classes because my evenings are busy. My workout schedule's going to go a little somethin' like this: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Monday - Zumba</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tuesday - Trying a new lunchtime spin class </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wednesday - Trying a new lunchtime yoga class</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thursday - Zumba</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Friday - I'm going to try a new lunchtime bootcamp class</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Saturday - Kundalini Yoga</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm really hoping that I'll like the lunchtime workouts because it's so nice to have the evenings free in the summer. It's also nice to switch things up once in a while to keep my workouts interesting. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><em>What do you have on your schedule this week?</em></strong></div>
<br />
<strong><em>Do you ever infuse your water? If you do, please share your favourite flavour combos. </em></strong><br />
<br />
Have a great Monday my friends!!<br />
<br />
Andrea<br />
xoxoAndrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-77519094119755155802013-03-29T06:00:00.000-04:002013-03-29T06:00:16.002-04:00Guest Post: Jessie Shares Her Fave Easter Recipes<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em>Hey y'all! Derek & I are probably at Opry Mills Mall in Nashville right now getting in some retail therapy before we head over the Opry House for our first Grand Ol' Opry experience tonight. My sweet friend, Jessie, has prepared a post with tons of mouth-watering Easter recipes for you. </em></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hi guys! My name is Jessie, and I blog over at </span><a href="http://jessielovestorun.wordpress.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Jessie Loves To Run</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. When Andrea first sent me an e-mail asking whether or not I’d do a guest post for her while she’s off having a fabulous vacation in Nashville (jealous), I was filled with happiness, and felt so honored. Not only do I absolutely adore reading Andrea’s posts, but she is such a sweetheart. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I feel like more times than one, you often see Guest Posts revolving around Healthy Eating and Fitness related talks. So for today, and since It’s close to Easter, I thought I’d steer away from either one of those topics & simply share some fun Easter recipes with all of you. Enjoy!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-05WUs6ZwZNY/UVCCUku4N6I/AAAAAAAADV0/j5f4zrLM5BI/s1600/1%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Baked Goods and Sweets<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-05WUs6ZwZNY/UVCCUku4N6I/AAAAAAAADV0/j5f4zrLM5BI/s320/1%255B1%255D.jpg" ssa="true" width="320" /></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US"></span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.bunkycooks.com/2012/04/italian-easter-bread/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Italian Easter Bread</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hzhyV2ef_tg/UVCCTTkov4I/AAAAAAAADVg/HuWhnip7xWc/s1600/2%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hzhyV2ef_tg/UVCCTTkov4I/AAAAAAAADVg/HuWhnip7xWc/s1600/2%255B1%255D.jpg" ssa="true" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Peanut-Butter-Easter-Eggs/Detail.aspx"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Peanut Butter Easter Eggs</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YFr3FNa6_oE/UVCCT3xzqWI/AAAAAAAADVo/qugqRiSpDhs/s1600/3%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YFr3FNa6_oE/UVCCT3xzqWI/AAAAAAAADVo/qugqRiSpDhs/s320/3%255B1%255D.jpg" ssa="true" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.cupcakeproject.com/2012/03/easter-egg-cupcakes-with-yolk-centers.html"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Easter Egg Cupcakes with “yolk”</span></b></a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l-rZFURAGtw/UVCCU4zBX8I/AAAAAAAADV4/VBTsETwhq78/s1600/4%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l-rZFURAGtw/UVCCU4zBX8I/AAAAAAAADV4/VBTsETwhq78/s320/4%255B1%255D.jpg" ssa="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://punchfork.com/recipe/Easter-Egg-Puzzle-Cookies-Martha-Stewart"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Easter Egg Puzzle Cookies</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Easter Meals<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--0blxjEmaBE/UVCCVt5mdNI/AAAAAAAADWA/ClE0gqwJ-bM/s1600/5%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--0blxjEmaBE/UVCCVt5mdNI/AAAAAAAADWA/ClE0gqwJ-bM/s320/5%255B1%255D.jpg" ssa="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.steamykitchen.com/15072-cola-pineapple-glazed-ham-easter-recipe.html"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Cola-Pineapple Glazed Ham</span></b></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TeMdlvfHs9E/UVCCXVUVfxI/AAAAAAAADWQ/95CSKoevUQA/s1600/6%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TeMdlvfHs9E/UVCCXVUVfxI/AAAAAAAADWQ/95CSKoevUQA/s320/6%255B1%255D.jpg" ssa="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.allyou.com/food/easter-dinner-00411000076926/page3.html?crlt.pid=camp.0Axbooo7P819"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Garlic-Herb Roast Leg of Lamb</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_XKi05CkQHg/UVCCX3A03BI/AAAAAAAADWY/UvMs0Md-Ifc/s1600/7%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_XKi05CkQHg/UVCCX3A03BI/AAAAAAAADWY/UvMs0Md-Ifc/s320/7%255B1%255D.jpg" ssa="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.deals4dummies.com/2012/03/recipe-check-out-this-asparagus-and-radish-saute-for-easter-dinner/"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Asparagus and Radish</span></b></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QCKYvU-4kmI/UVCCWH8d1AI/AAAAAAAADWI/ioMO9gaOq_M/s1600/8%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QCKYvU-4kmI/UVCCWH8d1AI/AAAAAAAADWI/ioMO9gaOq_M/s1600/8%255B1%255D.jpg" ssa="true" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.delish.com/entertaining-ideas/holidays/easter/easter-dinner-menu#slide-1"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Eggs stuffed with Smoked Salmon & Cucumber</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">...and those are just a couple Easter Recipes that I guarantee you’ll love.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> What you waiting for?? Make a list, head to the grocery store for ingredients, come home, turn on music & start cooking!</b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em>Wow! I am totally drooling over all of those sweets!! Thank you so much Jessie for filling in and sharing some of your fave Easter recipes with all of my Vegvacious readers! </em></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-US"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wishing you all a lovely Good Friday. </span></em></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-US"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Andrea</span></em></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-US"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">xoxo</span></em></span></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-24205951429056016002013-03-26T06:00:00.000-04:002013-03-26T06:00:01.362-04:00Healthy for the Holiday<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yesterday morning as I drove to work, there was snow in the air. Am I the only person who is <strong><em>SO </em></strong>ready to bid winter adios?! I love the cold, crisp days of winter and a clean, beautiful winter landscape, but come on!!! Easter is just a few short days away and I am ready for some sunshine and some warm Springtime temperatures!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Speaking of Easter --- can you believe it's this coming weekend?! It seems like we just got over the Christmas break and here we are at the next special holiday. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last year I went <a href="http://vegvacious.blogspot.ca/2012/04/easter-sweet-treats-link-love.html">totally crazy on the sweets</a> for Easter, but this year I am going to try really hard to stick to my clean eats plans as much as possible. It so easy to go crazy over the holidays - especially a holiday that promotes chocolate eggs and sugary jelly beans as the food of choice. That's not to say that I'm not going to indulge in a creme egg or the peanut butter/chocolate/oreo dessert I've heard is being made for my family dinner, but I am definitely going to focus on my long-term goals and try to stay on track as much as possible. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here are a few of the tricks and tips that I'll be using in my effort to stay on track this Easter Long Weekend: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
*<strong>Drink my 8 glasses of water each and everyday</strong> - I tend to sip on coffee and wine on long weekends and holidays. I probably will still enjoy both, but my water intake won't suffer as a result. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>*WORKOUT!!!!</strong> - It's so easy to relax the workout schedule over the holidays. If your gym has reduced hours or you're going to be out of town, throw your sneakers on and go for a walk/jog, or better yet, encourage the whole family to get out and take a stroll around the neighbourhood. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>*Remember what the holiday really is about </strong>- holidays do not = food!!! Family, friends and celebration are what the holidays are all about for me. Just because it's a holiday does not automatically give me the green light to gorge myself on every piece of food that passes my way.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>*Moderation is KEY</strong> - Do you love Cadbury creme eggs as much as I do? Well then eat one...but don't buy out your local convenience store and eat five. The same goes for your favourite Easter dessert. Have one serving and savour every delicious bite. Don't go back for seconds and don't eat it for breakfast tomorrow...er, not that I've ever done that before ;-) Enjoy the taste of decadence and move on. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>*Get back to your normal routine asap</strong> - Come Monday morning, I will be back to my healthy, clean eats. The indulgence won't be lingering around because the longer that I'm off my routine, the harder it is to get back to it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>*Contribute healthy dishes to your holiday meal</strong> - Instead of my usual <a href="http://vegvacious.blogspot.ca/2011/04/skor-bar-trifle.html">Skor Bar Trifle</a> (which admittedly is amazing), I've offered to contribute one of my favourite salads and clean desserts to our Easter meal this weekend. I know that my brother's girlfriend is making something decadent (remember that peanut butter/chocolate/oreo concocotion I mentioned above?), so we won't be missing out, and now we'll have a couple of healthier options as well. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Pinned Image" height="400" id="pinCloseupImage" src="http://media-cache-ec1.pinterest.com/550x/d0/1e/2b/d01e2b0e7839b0d2af61577bed6bb767.jpg" width="282" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Source via </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/558376053769781567/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pinterest </span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">via </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/elisawalsh2/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Elisa Walsh</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here's a few clean dishes that I think would be perfect for your holiday table: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.cleaneatingmag.com/Recipes/Recipe/Sticky-Buns.aspx">Sticky Buns </a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tiffany's <a href="http://www.thegraciouspantry.com/the-clean-eating-dr-wilbur-salad/">Clean Eating Dr. Wilbur Salad </a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Martha Stewart's <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/332641/easter-salad?czone=holiday/easter-center/easter-center-recipes&center=276968&gallery=335050&slide=256919">Easter Salad </a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://vegnews.com/articles/page.do?pageId=5170&catId=11">Dijon Roasted Brussels Sprouts</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rachael Ray's <a href="http://www.rachaelraymag.com/recipe/gingered-carrot-kale-ribbons/">Gingered Carrot & Kale Ribbons </a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Angela's <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/01/01/ultimate-vegan-lentil-walnut-loaf/">Vegan Lentil Walnut Loaf </a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tosca Reno's <a href="http://www.eatcleandiet.com/food_and_recipes/clean_recipe/ooey_gooey_banana_chocolate_chip_bread_pudding.aspx">Ooey Gooey Banana Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding</a> - what I'm bringing!!!! <br />Angela's <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2013/03/25/coconut-macaroon-thumbprints-with-raspberry-chia-seed-jam-vegan-gf/">Coconut Macaroon Thumbprint Cookies </a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<em>What's your favourite Easter dish? Link up to share with my readers! </em></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<em>Do you have any tricks or tips to staying on track after the holiday long weekend? </em></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have a great day, </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Andrea </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
xoxo</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Food for Thought: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Pinned Image" id="pinCloseupImage" src="http://media-cache-ec7.pinterest.com/550x/e6/84/fb/e684fbba8a3d32e0a043d4317cf47276.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Source: </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/202169470744448734/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pinterest</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> via </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/jkbutterfly2/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Julie Ann Petersen</span></a></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-69915395940847053402013-03-15T06:00:00.000-04:002013-03-15T06:00:08.042-04:00Getting Back On Track: Revamp Your Resolutions<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em>Hiya friends! TGIF!! I was contacted recently by Brittany who was interested in sharing a guest post about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She did a really great post on re-evaluating our New Years goals and getting back/staying on track. </em></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Check it out!!! </span></em></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s already March! Can you believe it? The snow is melting, the Spring is just around the corner, and soon enough shorts, skirts and bikinis will be in season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The real question is- how are your New Year’s Resolutions going?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You know, all those diet and fitness resolutions you promised to keep a little while back? Well whether you tried your best and things fell apart, or you gave up on giving up carbs January 2<sup>nd</sup>, hope isn’t lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only about 8% of Americans that make resolutions actually follow through and complete their initial goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sadly, by this time in the year, many of us have probably forgotten what we vowed to accomplish. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But with swimsuit season staring us in the face, it may be time to grab that list of resolutions that you shoved into a desk drawer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Figure out why it failed</span></b><span lang="EN-US">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hate to use the “F” word, but it’s important to determine why your resolutions didn’t work out in the first place. People tend to set very lofty goals for themselves and are extremely disappointed when they fail to meet their expectations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sit down and try to figure out whether your goals are reasonable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That isn’t to say that you’ll never achieve your ultimate fitness or weight loss goals, but you may need to rethink your means of attaining them, as well as the amount of time it takes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Forget about the short term.</span></b><span lang="EN-US"> This step is key.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A huge reason people have issues following through with diet and fitness changes, is that they expect instantaneous results.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, this leads many to make poor dieting choices for the sake of slimming down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any fast or program that promises drastic results, with little to no exercise is unhealthy and unrealistic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These fads have pretty much skewed success rates, often leading to yo-yo dieting, which usually does more harm than good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Taking your body on and off starvation mode actually causes you to gain more weight. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your body begins to break down muscle for energy, but once you resume a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">regular</i> diet, there is less muscle mass to burn calories and your body stores it as fat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a classic example of how short term solutions can lead to more severe health problems in the long run.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Rethink the word “diet”.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve already thrown this word around quite a bit, but I mean it in the most basic definition of the word – “the kinds of food a person habitually eats.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not talking about talking about trendy, fad “diets” and cleanses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m talking about the types of foods we eat on the day to day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dieting should not be a quick fix; it’s a way of living! You should make consistently healthy choices that are beneficial to your overall wellbeing. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Reevaluate Your Options</span></b><span lang="EN-US">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that we’ve established that crash dieting and short term solutions rarely work, let’s brainstorm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’re dedicated to improving your health, then now is a good time to look at your eating habits and determine where you need to make permanent changes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you eating enough veggies?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How lean is the protein you eat? Think about making substitutions rather than completely cutting things out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Meal planning is also an excellent way to that you’re maintaining a balanced diet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not every meal needs to be elaborate; there are numerous options for <a href="http://www.healthychoice.com/"><span style="color: blue;">quick healthy meals</span></a> and snacks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look for products with substantial fiber and protein to diminish hunger throughout the day.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Use the Buddy System!</span></b><span lang="EN-US"> As I struggled to get on track with a fitness and diet routine, I’ve come to find that it’s exponentially easier when you do it with someone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you are being held accountable by a fitness partner or group, people tend to be more committed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes this can be even more rewarding!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dieting and exercise can feel like much less of a chore when you’re cooking meals with your husband or going for jogs with a close friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But of all the tips and tricks I can give, the most important one is to remain positive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The greatest rewards take time and effort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So remember, even if the start seems slow and arduous, you can and will reach your goals. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Author Bio:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Brittany writes about healthy living and fitness on behalf of Healthy Choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For more information about </span></i><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.healthychoice.com/products"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: blue;">low calorie meals</span></i></a><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> and </i><a href="http://www.healthychoice.com/products/frozen-treats"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: blue;">healthy desserts</span></i></a><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> visit www.healthychoice.com.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember- don’t diet, live healthy!<o:p></o:p></i></span></strong></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em>Thank you so much Brittany for the motivation!!! As I read through the post, I realized that it really isn't hard to<strong> be</strong> healthy and <strong>stay</strong> healthy. We can all do it; especially when we work together and support each other on our journey to a healthier life!</em></span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Enjoy your weekend my bloggie friends, </span></em></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Andrea</span></em></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><em>xoxo</em></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><em>Here's a little Weekend Motivation for ya: </em></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-js9rlC8VI/UUHsgDd3oHI/AAAAAAAADVM/1YWTBAmAQV8/s1600/GOALS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" psa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-js9rlC8VI/UUHsgDd3oHI/AAAAAAAADVM/1YWTBAmAQV8/s400/GOALS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-61164678761566594272013-03-14T06:00:00.000-04:002013-03-14T06:00:02.044-04:00Celebrating Celery<div style="text-align: center;">
I read somewhere recently that March is National Celery Month. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Celery is one of those veggies that just doesn't get enough credit. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As I started to search around for some mouth-watering and healthy recipes, I was surprised to find that celery actually has several impressive health benefits. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sIBV_8AzlcU/UUCj15rfeVI/AAAAAAAADU4/Wmmtj7-lrPA/s1600/organic-celery-lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" psa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sIBV_8AzlcU/UUCj15rfeVI/AAAAAAAADU4/Wmmtj7-lrPA/s400/organic-celery-lg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You will almost always find some celery stalks in our crisper because it's one of Derek's faves --- give him a bag full of chopped celery and fresh radishes as a snack and you've got one happy man. I don't get quite so excited about this veggie. It's one of those foods that I feel sort of <meh> about. I like the crunch factor, but it certainly isn't the first thing I reach for when I'm searching for something satisfying to eat. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I saw that it was a month of celebrating celery, I thought that I needed to give celery another chance, so I started a search for some clean celery recipes to try ---- of course, I headed straight over to Pinterest :) Here are some of the pins that made me drool the most. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
* <a href="http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2010/11/recipe-for-green-apple-celery-and.html">Green Apple, Celery & Walnut Salad </a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
* <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Five-Spice-Tofu-Stir-Fry-with-Carrots-and-Celery-238275">Five-Spice Tofu Stir Fry with Carrots & Celery</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
* <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2012/04/15/magazine/celery-recipes.html?_r=0#Celery_Slaw">Celery Slaw</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
* <a href="http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/roasted-celery-blue-cheese-recipe-clx0411">Roasted Celery with Blue Cheese Crumbles</a> {swoon}</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
* <a href="http://eat2behealthy.com/5-celery-based-juicing-recipes/">Celery-Based Green Juices </a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
* <a href="http://www.thegraciouspantry.com/clean-eating-citrus-celery-salad/">Clean Eating Citrus Celery Salad </a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm going to give these a try and I'll let you know what I think! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong><em>Do you like celery? What's your fave way of eating it? </em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Have a great day, </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Andrea </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
xoxo </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-5751561625353918752013-03-11T06:00:00.000-04:002013-03-11T06:00:05.275-04:00Plans for the Week of March 10th Hi! How was your weekend? I hope it was fabulous!<br />
<br />
I had a lovely weekend. We went out with friends to a karaoke bar on Friday, which was so much fun, and the rest of the weekend was spent doing just the "usual stuff" (groceries, house cleaning, watching Season 3 of Sons of Anarchy {LOVE!!!} etc). Yesterday, I spent some time in the kitchen doing food prep for the week. Last week I was really successful in sticking to my clean eats goals and I am determined to be just as good this week.<br />
<br />
Yesterday I made:<br />
<br />
* Baked Blueberry Banana Oatmeal<br />
* Hard-boiled Eggs<br />
* Homemade Tater Soup - for Derek & his dad<br />
* Quinoa (to add to salads, roasted veggies, etc)<br />
<br />
<i>Now here is where I should be inserting a pic or two of my food prep, but someone <cough, me, cough> has misplaced her cord and cannot download any photos right now :-/</i><br />
<br />
I'm planning for the following dinners this week:<br />
<br />
* BBQ Tofu with Roasted Balsamic Broccoli<br />
* Lentil Veggie Mac 'N Cheese<br />
* Toasted TLT (tempeh, lettuce & tomato)<br />
* Spaghetti Squash with Veggies<br />
* Veggie Omlets with Sweet Potato Homefries<br />
<br />
I also bought a ton of fresh veggies that I'm planning to wash and chop tonight because the one thing I'd like to improve on this week is adding more salads to my daily eats - I'll be having salads for lunch or adding them as a side to our dinners. Now that the weather is starting to warm up, I crave fresh greens so much more!<br />
<br />
In addition to my eats, here's what the workout plans are looking like this week:<br />
<br />
*Sunday - Rest<br />
*Monday - Bootcamp (new love that kicks my butt!!)<br />
*Tuesday - Spin<br />
*Wednesday - Rest<br />
*Thursday - Zumba <br />
*Friday - Active Rest or a new lunchtime Bootcamp<br />
*Saturday - Yoga<br />
<br />
So here's to another successful week my friends!<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>What do you have planned for the upcoming week? </i></b><br />
<br />
Have a great day!!<br />
<br />
Andrea<br />
xoxo<br />
<br />
Today's Motivation:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="EAT well. MOVE daily. HYDRATE often. SLEEP lots. LOVE your body. REPEAT for life." height="260" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/550x/9b/6f/60/9b6f60bb7e91dc3e08629de4be2a2814.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/56928382760524912/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Source</span></a></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-8417101161400759072013-03-01T14:49:00.000-05:002013-03-01T14:49:27.870-05:0028 Days<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hi Friends! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
TGIF!! Do you have an exciting weekend planned?! Tomorrow is a busy day and then I have absolutely NOTHING planned for Sunday except hanging around the homestead. I've been looking forward to a PJ Sunday all week! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As you know, and I'm sure it's been obvious from my lack of posts lately, I have been busy. Both Derek and I have been moving at warp speed with barely a moment of peace. I keep thinking things are going to slow down, but they don't ---- so we are just starting to accept this busier lifestyle as the norm.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We are in need of a break and a mini-break we shall have at the end of March. We just booked ourselves a mini-vacay to Nashville followed by Easter with my family. I am <em>beyond</em> excited about the thought of getting away for a few days; especially to one of my fave places!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Pinned Image" height="400" id="pinCloseupImage" src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/550x/ba/f0/cc/baf0cc09957bc65b24f17583c2135572.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/343188434073952763/">Source</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Derek & I rarely get away by ourselves, so it will be so nice to spend some QT with each other and I always love a visit with my fam! Have you ever been to Nashville before? We're planning to hit some of our fave hotspots, as well as a Nashville Predators game, the Grand Ol' Opry and shopping is a must at Opry Mills Mall! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
March 1st marked 28 days until our little getaway, so I've set some goals for myself for the next 4 weeks:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />*Eat clean every snack/meal except one free meal over the weekend. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
*5 workouts per week</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
*8 glasses of water per day</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
*Unplug & be in bed by 11 p.m. (7 hrs of sleep/night is the goal!) </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
*Maintain a food journal</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
*Try a new workout once per week to keep things interesting</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I do so much better with short-term goals; especially when I have a *reward* at the end. I hope you don't mind, but you're going to be seeing a lot of meal plans, clean eating photos and fitness updates over the next 4 weeks! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><em>What short-term goals do you have set for yourself right now? </em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><em>Do you love vacationing or do you prefer downtime at home? </em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have a great weekend and I will see you with a meal planning post on Monday! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Andrea</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
xoxo</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Food for thought: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Pinned Image" height="400" id="pinCloseupImage" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/550x/ff/bd/29/ffbd294fa1d445cd739c84eca01ec591.jpg" width="266" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/142215300704847107/">Source</a></span></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-25655430116260168892013-02-26T06:00:00.000-05:002013-02-26T09:20:08.835-05:00A Most Egg-cellent Clean Sammie<div style="text-align: justify;">
Life can get in the way of our healthy goals. I know this because it's been happening to me alot lately. I have a vision of how I want myself to look and feel and I know that my goals are totally attainable if I could just stick to the plan I've laid out, but then life happens. Everyday I get up, pack a clean lunch with lots of healthy snacks, drink my water, head to the gym after work, get home between 7 & 8 p.m. and then stuff my face full of whatever food is ready and at my fingertips. Not. Good. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love spending time in the kitchen trying new recipes and cooking up wholesome, healthy meals for dinner. This time of year, I'm drawn to casseroles and roasted veggies and all types of comfort foods, but I've had to accept the fact that there are some days when I'm going to have to whip up something quick and easy, so that I don't turn to junk food as a substitute for my dinner or wind up eating dinner at 10 p.m. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This sandwich has been one of my regular "go to" meals lately. It works for breakfast , lunch or dinner and I've enjoyed it at all times of the day. I got the idea from Tosca Reno's <a href="http://www.eatcleandiet.com/about_the_diet/the_books.aspx">Eat Clean Vegetarian Cookbook</a> and tweaked it a bit to suit my tastes. It's easy, tastes great and most importantly it's healthy and clean and fits nicely with my goals. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All you do is scramble up 1/4 cup of egg whites in a small non-stick frying pan. Add in a few drops of Frank's Red Hot (I like lots!!!) and a tablespoon of nutritional yeast. Once the egg is finished cooking, I like to make my sandwich with a toasted whole grain English muffin or flatbread smothered with a whole lotta dijon mustard. Don't skip the dijon my friends, it makes this sandwich!!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Photo: Must haves for the perfect breakfast sandwich: Frank's Red Hot & dijon!" class="scaledImageFitWidth img" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/c0.0.403.403/p403x403/644730_10151270063641472_1167363945_n.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now this is WAY healthier than the old egg sandwich I used to eat --- picture a scrambled egg on toast topped with a processed cheese slice and lotsa ketchup. Welp! I used to eat that a couple of times per week!!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><em>Do you have a quick and easy 'go to' meal when life gets hectic? </em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Pinned Image" height="400" id="pinCloseupImage" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/550x/67/2e/0f/672e0f4bbad03fe716d8286b357fed15.jpg" width="319" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/2885187230987441/">Source</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have a great day my friends! <br />
Andrea</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
xoxo</div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-36978527983158345632013-02-20T06:00:00.000-05:002013-02-20T06:00:04.852-05:00What I Ate Wednesday - Veggie Love<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hiya guys! I've been really light on my posting over the past two weeks and its because I've had a lot of stuff on my plate! The most recent was a visit from one of my most favourite people....my mom! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
She's on her way back home this morning :( and we are back to our regularly scheduled programming ---- not only in our routine but our eats! Oh gosh, our eats have been all over the map. I have been absolutely amazing at sticking to my clean eats goals during the week, but I've been indulging a little more than I'd like to over the weekends. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
We have some vacation plans coming up, so that's the motivation I'm using to really stick with my clean eats program and I'm hoping all the veggie love shared at <a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/">Peas & Crayons</a> this month will help motivate me and give me some creative ideas on how to eat clean while keeping things interesting, and most importantly DELICIOUS!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<center>
<a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://i1065.photobucket.com/albums/u395/plaughlin1/wiawloveyourveggiesmonthbutton2.jpg" /></a></center>
<center>
</center>
<div align="left">
Even though I've been absent here on the blog, I've still been snapping pics and sharing my eats on Twitter and Instagram....here are some of my fave meals from the past couple of weeks <em>(please forgive the photos - most were taken on my phone and clearly I need to use my Canon with editing to actually have a photograph that is properly centred :) </em>:</div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
<a href="http://www.vegvacious.blogspot.ca/2012/07/bananarama-protein-pancakes.html">Bananarama Protein Pancakes</a> are still one of my all-time favourite breakfasts. Lately, I've been adding 1/2 a grapefruit to my first meal of the day. </div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ILtqaNMne60/USPIGPRZ8qI/AAAAAAAADTw/XEHoFSan4CE/s1600/breakie1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" mea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ILtqaNMne60/USPIGPRZ8qI/AAAAAAAADTw/XEHoFSan4CE/s400/breakie1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Over the weekend, I made my mom & I some sweet potato homefries (sweet potato & sweet onion panfried in coconut oil) and baked eggs with mozza, grape tomatoes & fresh basil. I must say it was the best egg concoction I've put together in ages! My mom and I totally <em>swooned</em> over this breakfast. </div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pyzpLPXzkPE/USPOcR5vYGI/AAAAAAAADUY/VxrwQQF0gLk/s1600/Eggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" mea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pyzpLPXzkPE/USPOcR5vYGI/AAAAAAAADUY/VxrwQQF0gLk/s400/Eggs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been making a true effort to pack a healthy lunch that includes mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks. Here is one from last week that included Gina`s <a href="http://fitnessista.com/2009/11/sweet-potato-black-bean-chili/">Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili</a>, plain non-fat Greek yogourt with mixed fruit, whole wheat crackers and roasted garlic hummus, and some of my <a href="http://www.vegvacious.blogspot.ca/2013/02/responsible-snacking-trail-mix-my-way.html">trail mix. </a></div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IQ7GkrIQh6A/USPN7pbUT9I/AAAAAAAADUQ/4dY2OoWWQW4/s1600/Clean+Lunch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" mea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IQ7GkrIQh6A/USPN7pbUT9I/AAAAAAAADUQ/4dY2OoWWQW4/s400/Clean+Lunch.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've also been eating a ton of kale. Yesterday, I marinated some kale in an olive oil/apple cider vinegar/dijon combo and topped it with some leftover sweet potato homefries, sweet orange pepper, raw pepitas, raw walnut pieces, goat cheese and sundried tomatoes. It was ah-mazing! </div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oTFKEWS0Hd0/USPIV4HMHcI/AAAAAAAADT4/_IXdedn678E/s1600/kale+salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" mea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oTFKEWS0Hd0/USPIV4HMHcI/AAAAAAAADT4/_IXdedn678E/s400/kale+salad.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Dinners have been really good too. I cannot get enough of Angela's <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2013/01/23/easy-bbq-tofu/">Easy BBQ Tofu</a>. It is so good! I usually pair it with some roasted veggies - here I had roasted taters and turnip. Have I mentioned that I used to hate turnip?! I tried roasting it with a bit of coconut oil and sea salt and I have absolutely fallen in love with it. Derek and I easily eat an entire turnip in one meal! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eE7ruBuYIjQ/USPNj7Uv6vI/AAAAAAAADUI/ZI8LIuDNuns/s1600/BBQ+Tofu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" mea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eE7ruBuYIjQ/USPNj7Uv6vI/AAAAAAAADUI/ZI8LIuDNuns/s400/BBQ+Tofu.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My other fave dinner of late was <a href="http://www.theleangreenbean.com/lentil-veggie-mac-cheese/">Lentil Veggie Mac & Cheese</a> by Lindsay. A classic comfort food with an added punch of protein and veggies. I didn't share one bit of this with anyone; not even Derek got a bite!!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sewkNFkWi1Y/USPOwLt8SGI/AAAAAAAADUg/KNAPpkrowww/s1600/MacNChs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" mea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sewkNFkWi1Y/USPOwLt8SGI/AAAAAAAADUg/KNAPpkrowww/s400/MacNChs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Whew! I'm feeling a little better about my eats now that I see all the goodness I've used to fuel my body. I've had a few moments of weakness where chocolate <strike>or </strike>and wine have passed my lips, but hey "moderation is key" wouldn't you agree?! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
What's the best healthy meal you've eaten this week? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
When you try to follow a meal plan do you allow for some indulgence? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Have a great day my friends! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Andrea</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
xoxo</div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-54707666917916499352013-02-11T06:00:00.000-05:002013-02-11T10:19:29.125-05:00Responsible Snacking: Trail Mix ~ My Way<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hi! How was your weekend?! Mine turned out great even though it started out with a 'snow day' on Friday. We had our first winter storm in two years and it was quite the winter wonderland when we woke up on Friday morning. I had the day off, so I didn't have to venture off to work and since I wasn't able to get anywhere, I ended up getting some long overdue chores done at home. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I planned to get to the gym and do an early morning workout, but my cardio sesh was cancelled due to the fact that I couldn't get out of the driveway. Instead, I went outside and burnt some calories by shovelling snow....twice.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Improvisation, baby!!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As you know, I've been following a 'clean' diet since the beginning of January and 90% of the time, I've been doing great. The only time I struggle with my new food plan is in the evening. I crave sweets EVERY SINGLE NIGHT and it wasn't until I started eating clean that these cravings started to rear their ugly head. I tried to have a tea, but found that I was waking up in the middle of the night with a full bladder and that just wasn't working for me.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been doing alot of my weekly meal prep on Sunday afternoons and I've just recently added a trail mix to my prepping time. It's super easy, really it can barely be called a recipe, and you can add whatever nuts, seeds and dried fruit you fancy. I've been loving a handful of this when the snack monster attacks. This is also a great pre-workout snack. I grab a handful on the way to the gym and it gives me the extra fuel I need. </div>
<br />
<strong>Andrea's Healthy Trail Mix</strong><br />
<br />
1 c raw almonds<br />
1/2 c dried cherries<br />
1/4 c white chocolate chips<br />
1/2 c raw cashews<br />
1/2 c raw sunflower seeds<br />
1/2 c reduced sugar banana chips <br />
<br />
All you do is throw all of the ingredients into a large ziploc bag and shake 'er up! <br />
<br />
Grab a handful when a craving strikes and enjoy! The sweet cherries, banana chips and white chocolate are sure to control any desire for sweets and the nuts will fuel ya up! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EBxTh8-IbZ0/URb6sdcT8bI/AAAAAAAADTE/ZJHPfzHkMrE/s1600/IMG_1669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" jea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EBxTh8-IbZ0/URb6sdcT8bI/AAAAAAAADTE/ZJHPfzHkMrE/s400/IMG_1669.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HBEDYroNMkQ/URb8PfqNbEI/AAAAAAAADTM/WWL8Y7BItG4/s1600/IMG_1675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" jea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HBEDYroNMkQ/URb8PfqNbEI/AAAAAAAADTM/WWL8Y7BItG4/s400/IMG_1675.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Clearly, I'm not the only one in my house that's looking for a little treat! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XBVV8l7131s/URb-s9ocy8I/AAAAAAAADTY/iC0slIaAfV0/s1600/IMG_1678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" jea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XBVV8l7131s/URb-s9ocy8I/AAAAAAAADTY/iC0slIaAfV0/s400/IMG_1678.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What's your favourite sweet treat?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Have a great day! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Andrea</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-3095026113642768952013-02-04T13:07:00.000-05:002013-02-04T13:07:12.860-05:00Workout Videos at HomeUm, remember how I shared my goal of getting to the gym to workout at least 4 times per week. Yeah, well that just is not happening my friends. I don't really have a good excuse as to why not other than the fact that I've been really tired at the end of the workday and by the time I get home from work, I have no desire to turn around and drive back to the gym after dinner. It makes for a <em>really </em>long day and there are some days when I don't get to sit down until 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. <br />
<br />
Mondays are great because I do a one hour core strengthening class, followed by an hour of zumba. I LOVE <3 Monday nights!! By the time I'm finished both classes, I can barely lift my arms. I also love Saturdays because that's my yoga day. It's such a nice way to start the weekend. The rest of the week is left up in the air --- I'm thinking the flexibility is part of my problem. <br />
<br />
I've been trying to figure out how I can kick myself in the butt and get a more regular schedule in place (that I will actually follow) and I've come to the conclusion that in order for me to get in a sufficient amount of workouts per week, I need to do at least one to two of my weekly workouts at home. It's hard to get back to the gym in the evenings and if I turn on a workout video as soon as I get home from work, then I'm done with my workout and well on my way to having dinner ready by 6:30 p.m. That is a time schedule that makes me much happier!!! <br />
<br />
So, what workout videos do I like? Truth be told, I need to bulk up my home workout selection -- I hardly have anything at home. I borrow videos from my friends and use some online resources like <a href="http://bodyrock.tv/">bodyrock.tv</a>, but I don't really stick with any of them on a consistent basis. <br />
<br />
A few weeks ago, I was contacted by <a href="http://beachbody.com/">Beachbody.com</a> and was asked to take a look around the site. The timing couldn't be more perfect because this is a terrific place to get your hands on some of the most popular home fitness workout videos. One of their most popular workouts is the well known <a href="http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/p90x.do">P90X</a>. I'm sure you know someone whose tried P90X --- I've personally seen some pretty fantastic transformations as a result! <br />
<br />
Some of Beachbody's newest workouts are: <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/les-mills-combat-workout.do">Les Mills Combat Workout</a><br />
<a href="http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/brazil-butt-lift-master-series-advanced-workout.do">Brazil Butt Lift Master Series</a> <br />
<a href="http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/insanity-the-asylum-volume-2-elite-training-workout.do">Asylum Volume 2</a><br />
<br />
I am very familiar with the Brazil Butt Lift Master Series and if you want to lift and firm that booty in preparation for an upcoming beach vacation, this is the series for you! <br />
<br />
One thing that I really loved about the site is that they provide you with a comparison of their most popular fitness programs. You can find the comparison <a href="http://www.beachbody.com/category/fitness_programs/compare_fitness_programs.do">here</a> and then choose what programs are best suited for your goals and fitness level. <br />
<br />
I definitely see some of these fitness videos in my immediate future. What about you? Do you have a fave workout series? Have you ever heard of Beachbody before? Let me know what you're using and what you find most effective! <br />
<br />
Have a great day. <br />
<br />
Andrea <br />
xo<br />
<br />Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-20483198103635575302013-01-24T13:15:00.001-05:002013-01-24T13:15:31.660-05:00DIY Honey Lemon Lip Exfoliant<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's been cold this week. Like, <em>really</em> cold. So cold that Derek's afraid to let the dogs go out for more than 5 minutes at a time because he doesn't want them to freeze....they're our babies ya know :) It's been so cold that I've been sporting fleecy PJs to bed, with polar fleece socks and microfleece sheets. Did you know that there were so many kinds of fleece? I did. And I love it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've pulled out my mitts, my scarves and my new winter coat. You can't go out, not even for a minute, without bundling up in your woolies. I know it's January and that I live in Canada, so I really shouldn't be shocked by this weather, but it's been a long time since we've felt such frigid temperatures and I don't like it one bit. I swear to you that I am a true red & white Canadian, but we live in the southern parts of Ontario and you won't catch me moving north anytime soon. Like never. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ERSZIJOvx70/UQCihlN7OII/AAAAAAAADSs/UU-UZDa3I6k/s1600/IMG_20130120_093305%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" oea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ERSZIJOvx70/UQCihlN7OII/AAAAAAAADSs/UU-UZDa3I6k/s400/IMG_20130120_093305%255B1%255D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This weather has been wreaking havoc on my skin. I moisturize every day, but my hands have been feeling drier everyday and my lips....oh my poor, dry flaky lips. They have been in a sad state my friends. No matter how much lip gloss or chapstick I use, I can't keep them soft and smooth. Yesterday was the final straw. I couldn't stand the sandpaper feeling any longer, so I decided to take action. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Several years ago, I bought a lip exfoliant and conditioner from Mary Kay. These products were the bomb-digity of lip products. They kept my lips smooth and soft all year long. The set was a tad pricey, and while I don't mind paying for quality, I have a hard time blowing my skincare budget on something I can easily make at home. I did a little research on what ingredients work best for smoothing and conditioning my lips and I went to work on making my own homemade version of a lip exfoliant. </div>
<br />
<strong>Honey Lemon Lip Exfoliant</strong><br />
3 tsp coarse brown sugar (I used organic Sucanat)<br />
3/4 tsp lemon juice<br />
3/4 tsp olive oil<br />
3/4 tsp honey<br />
<br />
Mix the lemon juice, olive oil and honey together in a small bowl. Add the brown sugar and mix until it forms a wet paste. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-je5zQAT_cEY/UQCeSPvbpJI/AAAAAAAADR0/_oi05RNAJVg/s1600/IMG_1645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" oea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-je5zQAT_cEY/UQCeSPvbpJI/AAAAAAAADR0/_oi05RNAJVg/s400/IMG_1645.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HXIVtxWkUUI/UQCe0X7-DPI/AAAAAAAADR8/DJTtmG-LISA/s1600/IMG_1646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" oea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HXIVtxWkUUI/UQCe0X7-DPI/AAAAAAAADR8/DJTtmG-LISA/s400/IMG_1646.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PjSBv2Dixsg/UQCgDR7PIiI/AAAAAAAADSM/4Qn-_obqMUw/s1600/IMG_1647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" oea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PjSBv2Dixsg/UQCgDR7PIiI/AAAAAAAADSM/4Qn-_obqMUw/s400/IMG_1647.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wash your lips and pat dry. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Gently apply the exfoliant to your lips and leave for 20 - 30 seconds. Using your finger, gently rub the exfoliant in small circles around your lips. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Use warm water to wipe the exfoliant off your lips and pat dry. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<em>Now I had a picture of my lips covered in the scrub mixture, but it looked like I had the plague, so I decided not to bless your eyes with that sight. If you have any questions about application, just drop me a line :-) </em></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mm5m4W-EOsk/UQCglK0of6I/AAAAAAAADSU/aACLEL7IEAo/s1600/IMG_1642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" oea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mm5m4W-EOsk/UQCglK0of6I/AAAAAAAADSU/aACLEL7IEAo/s400/IMG_1642.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>smooth, clean, shiny lips...and yes, I am sporting one of my sexiest fleece PJ tops here ;-)</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now it's time to moisturize!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Use your favourite lip balm or chapstick to give your lips an extra boost of moisture and shine. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My favourites are <a href="https://www.burtsbees.ca/natural-products/lips-lip-balms/honey-lip-balm.html">Burt's Bees Honey Lip Balm</a> (not pictured), <a href="http://evolutionofsmooth.com/products/lipbalm-sphere/strawberry-sorbet.html">EOS in Strawberry Sorbet</a> or <a href="http://www.lush.ca/Lip-Service/00444,en_CA,pd.html">LUSH's Lip Service</a>. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ynYu0mOh2m8/UQChIwxGjMI/AAAAAAAADSc/5BRYFMG2oC8/s1600/IMG_1655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" oea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ynYu0mOh2m8/UQChIwxGjMI/AAAAAAAADSc/5BRYFMG2oC8/s400/IMG_1655.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Um, I've gotta say not only does this exfoliant work amazingly well and it also tastes pretty darn good. :-D</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<em>*Note: The skin on our lips is very delicate, so you should not exfoliate everyday. I exfoliate once or twice (if my lips are REALLY dry) per week. If you are going out for a night on the town and are planning to wear a full coverage lipstick, you should definitely use this exfoliant to ensure a smooth coverage.*</em></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>What's your favourite lip moisturizer to use during the cold, dry months? </strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Do you love the Winter or are you just counting down the days 'til the first day of Spring?</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Have a great day, <br />
<br />
Andrea<br />
xoxoAndrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-63311540376734026222013-01-22T06:00:00.000-05:002013-01-22T06:00:15.448-05:00Chocolate Peanut Butter Pumpkin Protein Bites+ a Plan<div style="text-align: justify;">
Good morning! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I did alot of planning this past weekend when it comes to my upcoming eats and workouts. As I always say, PLANNING = SUCCESS and I'm determined to succeed at my clean eats goals and to get 4 workouts in this week. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last week was a bit of a bust for us because we've been spending extra time with Derek's dad, who's in the hospital (he's ok - he's just needing a little attention from his doctors) and Dora, our sweet rottie girl, who got spayed last Tuesday. She was a little out of sorts and we wanted to keep a close eye on her as she recovered, plus we thought she deserved a little extra TLC.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In terms of my workouts this week, this is my plan: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sunday - rest *food prep day*</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Monday - core & zumba</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tuesday - spin & weights (chest & triceps)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wednesday - rest</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thursday - zumba or the Fitnessista's <a href="http://fitnessista.com/2013/01/booty-burning-walking-workout-the-runners-dilemma/">Booty Burning Walking Workout</a> & weights (back & biceps)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Friday - active rest (long walk with dogs most likely)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Saturday - 90 minutes kundalini yoga</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now when I say I had a food prep day on Sunday, I am not kidding!!! I spent 3 hours planning, shopping and prepping some clean foods for the week. All of my efforts <em>should</em> give us some easy grab 'n go options for busy days this week and I definitely was thankful for my prep work last night when I didn't get home from the gym until 8:15 p.m. I certainly was in no mood to be cooking up a big meal and I loved having healthy, nutritious eats at my fingertips. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X4YCr9Qpp_I/UPyBisHRAPI/AAAAAAAADQI/I_bRhieUQic/s1600/IMG_1621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" jea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X4YCr9Qpp_I/UPyBisHRAPI/AAAAAAAADQI/I_bRhieUQic/s400/IMG_1621.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I made: <br />
<br />
1. 'Cheezy' Broccoli Soup (from the <a href="http://www.eatcleandiet.com/preview/vegetarian-cookbook/">Eat Clean Diet Vegetarian Cookbook</a>)<br />
2. Hard-boiled Eggs (for Derek)<br />
3. Chocolate Peanut Butter Pumpkin Protein Bites<br />
4. <a href="http://www.vegvacious.blogspot.ca/2012/07/bananarama-protein-pancakes.html">Bananarama Protein Pancakes</a><br />
5. Vegan Mexi-Style Quinoa<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My original plan was to make a batch of the Fitnessista's Pumpkin Amazeballs, but I didn't have any natural nut butter at home, so I thought it'd be a tasty twist if I added some Dark Chocolate Dreams Peanut Butter instead. Seriously my friends, these turned out to be Ah-Freakin'-Mazing!!! I was so happy that I remembered my measurements, so that I could share this recipe with because you really, REALLY must try it! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H_F5N8vMZLk/UPyCuemGHzI/AAAAAAAADQg/phdbzxoeHwU/s1600/IMG_1617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" jea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H_F5N8vMZLk/UPyCuemGHzI/AAAAAAAADQg/phdbzxoeHwU/s400/IMG_1617.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong>Chocolate Peanut Butter Pumpkin Protein Bites</strong><br />
Makes 7 1" balls<br />
<br />
<em>Inspired by the Fitnessista's <a href="http://fitnessista.com/2012/10/pumpkin-amazeballs/">Pumpkin Amazeballs</a></em><br />
<br />
3 tbsp chocolate protein powder<br />
2 tbsp unsweetened coconut<br />
1 tbsp oats<br />
2 tbsp <a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/index.php/peanut-butter-1/darkchocolatedreams.html">Dark Chocolate Dreams</a> peanut butter<br />
1 tbsp maple syrup<br />
2 tbsp pure pumpkin puree<br />
1 tbsp chia seeds<br />
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice <br />
<br />
In a small food process, pulse the protein powder, coconut & oats until it resembles a fine powder. <br />
<br />
Add the remaining ingredients and process until well mixed. <br />
<br />
Using your hands, shape into 1" balls. <br />
<br />
Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zexdeDX_ZeI/UPyDi5rWWII/AAAAAAAADQ0/hCa7Q0LuP-I/s1600/IMG_1619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" jea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zexdeDX_ZeI/UPyDi5rWWII/AAAAAAAADQ0/hCa7Q0LuP-I/s400/IMG_1619.JPG" width="343" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>P.S. - as long as you use a vegan protein powder, such as Vega, these are VEGAN baby!!</em></div>
<br />
Two of these make a fantastic pre-workout snack. (So you might as well use that 7th bite as your taste tester, since it's clearly the odd man out!!) These are so handy for nights when I go from work straight to the gym. It gives me the energy to push through my workout without wanting to gnaw off my arm when the hunger pangs start.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>What's your fave pre-workout snack??</em></strong><br />
<br />
Have a great day! <br />
<br />
Andrea<br />
xoxo<br />
<br />
Food for Thought: <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Pinned Image" id="pinCloseupImage" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/286330488779141886_h8z8RoYN_c.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Source: </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/286330488779141886/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pinterest</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> via </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/gjdallas/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Gloria Dallas</span></a></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-50996318051675796782013-01-20T19:16:00.002-05:002013-01-20T19:16:26.317-05:00My Week in Photos. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JloJvZWs-QQ/UPyB53QWTiI/AAAAAAAADQU/EBKeI1wSEWk/s1600/IMG_1616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" jea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JloJvZWs-QQ/UPyB53QWTiI/AAAAAAAADQU/EBKeI1wSEWk/s400/IMG_1616.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTbFjDJ_dWs/UPyElaCw8TI/AAAAAAAADRE/MUeLGMyUJKU/s1600/IMG_1613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" jea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTbFjDJ_dWs/UPyElaCw8TI/AAAAAAAADRE/MUeLGMyUJKU/s400/IMG_1613.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Izd0ACK3_T8/UPyGUWZpTGI/AAAAAAAADRc/5eV12G0eO3M/s1600/Hank2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" jea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Izd0ACK3_T8/UPyGUWZpTGI/AAAAAAAADRc/5eV12G0eO3M/s400/Hank2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z_odD4f26jo/UPyEMxueszI/AAAAAAAADQ8/Rf6fAjFLuqc/s1600/IMG_1628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" jea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z_odD4f26jo/UPyEMxueszI/AAAAAAAADQ8/Rf6fAjFLuqc/s400/IMG_1628.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTbFjDJ_dWs/UPyElaCw8TI/AAAAAAAADRE/MUeLGMyUJKU/s1600/IMG_1613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" jea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTbFjDJ_dWs/UPyElaCw8TI/AAAAAAAADRE/MUeLGMyUJKU/s400/IMG_1613.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wHhUzPQP4-4/UPyC-r2xbuI/AAAAAAAADQo/8w_uknZNsw4/s1600/IMG_1618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" jea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wHhUzPQP4-4/UPyC-r2xbuI/AAAAAAAADQo/8w_uknZNsw4/s400/IMG_1618.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2fTchr8S-WM/UPyGQheGVNI/AAAAAAAADRU/9g9oXyQrNZA/s1600/Hank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" jea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2fTchr8S-WM/UPyGQheGVNI/AAAAAAAADRU/9g9oXyQrNZA/s400/Hank.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P7aYG56Rgy4/UPyAbgY6dAI/AAAAAAAADP8/NvRjCMg6XI0/s1600/IMG_1625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" jea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P7aYG56Rgy4/UPyAbgY6dAI/AAAAAAAADP8/NvRjCMg6XI0/s400/IMG_1625.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-52828981305594530042013-01-17T06:00:00.000-05:002013-01-17T06:52:11.132-05:00Dancing Queen<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love to dance. And I mean LOVE. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I started taking ballet classes when I was a little girl and I continued on with tap and jazz until I was 18. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l5midgMUaXY/UPfiRh3pZHI/AAAAAAAADPs/lcPM1GbhxSs/s1600/Andrea-dance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" jea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l5midgMUaXY/UPfiRh3pZHI/AAAAAAAADPs/lcPM1GbhxSs/s400/Andrea-dance.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
I gave up classes once I moved out on my own to go to university, but you could often find me out with my girlfriends on the weekends lighting up the dance floor at our favourite clubs until the wee hours of the morning. I spent many Friday nights dancing on the speakers with my bestie, Krista, at our fave <strike>dive</strike> hotspot singing at the top of our lungs and shakin' our groove thangs like nobody's business :-D</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At the time, it was a fun and social activity and I did it because I loved it. Dancing brings me joy. You can express yourself through movement, and for me, it frees my spirit. <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now, I love using dance as my cardio workout a couple of times per week. Who would've thought?! Dancing for the <strong><em>*burn*.</em></strong> Zumba is definitely my favourite dance workout and becoming certified as a zumba instructor is one of my current goals. I go to a class at the Y every Monday night and I look so forward to that one hour where I can just let the stress of the day go and enjoy my time at the gym. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our instructor at the Y incorporates alot of latin and bellydance moves into her choreography --- whew! talk about working your core!!! --- and I've been thinking that I need to look into adding some new dance classes into my life too. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<em>Have you ever taken a dance fitness class other than zumba before? </em></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dance is becoming a really popular workout option, not only because it's FUN, but also because there are a ton of positive health benefits that you'll experience when you get a little crazy on the dance floor. </div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Improves your posture and tightens your core</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Burns calories!!!</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Stimulates your mind by memorizing routines and dance steps</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Increases your flexibility and agility</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Improves your co-ordination</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Releases endorphins and promotes a sense of well-being </div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Reduces tension and stress</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
Promotes social interaction</div>
</li>
</ul>
Who wouldn't wanna dance with all of those benefits?! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong><em>Have you ever turned your workout into a dance party? What's your fave dance-themed workout?</em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have a great day! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Andrea</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
xoxo</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Inspiration for the Day: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Pinned Image" id="pinCloseupImage" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/119415827588973585_kojMDqHl_c.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Source: </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/187462403209206499/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pinterest</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> via </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/michelestreets/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Michele Streets</span></a></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-58404432170009590722013-01-15T06:00:00.000-05:002013-01-15T06:00:09.734-05:00Baked Cinnamon Pear Steel Cut OatsOatmeal is quickly becoming my breakfast obsession for the winter of 2012-13. I really don't remember what I did before I discovered the awesomeness that is steel cut oats. They're so versatile and I've been finding myself making all sorts of oatmeal concoctions in the slow cooker, on the stove top and now baked up in a warm and delicious casserole. <br />
<br />
This, my friends, is what comfort food for breakfast looks like. I decided to change things up a bit because I've been obsessively cooking with pumpkins and apples since September, so pears were my fruit of choice this time 'round. I combined fresh pears with cinnamon and Sucanat and the result was an ooey gooey fruit explosion tucked away under a hearty oatmeal topper. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kKq8NvuZZB4/UPNVgM8m_lI/AAAAAAAADPM/3cbcp1je1A0/s1600/IMG_1581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kKq8NvuZZB4/UPNVgM8m_lI/AAAAAAAADPM/3cbcp1je1A0/s400/IMG_1581.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong>Baked Cinnamon Pear Steel Cut Oats</strong><br />
Serves 4 - 5<br />
<br />
2 large pears, chopped<br />
2 tsp cinnamon<br />
1 c steel cut oats<br />
2 c almond milk (or soy milk, coconut milk, dairy milk)<br />
3 tbsp Sucanat (or brown sugar)<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
pinch sea salt<br />
<br />
Preheat your oven to 400 and grease a medium-sized casserole dish. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Place the chopped pears in a bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of the Sucanat and 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon. Mix until the pears are well coated and pour into the bottom of the casserole dish. </div>
<br />
Sprinkle the steel cut oats over the pears. <br />
<br />
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, the remaining cinnamon, Sucanat and vanilla. Pour over the oats and pears. <br />
<br />
Cover your dish and bake for 45 to 55 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOg8r5b_nqc/UPNVgInoxuI/AAAAAAAADPE/lAUxpuK35cE/s1600/IMG_1586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOg8r5b_nqc/UPNVgInoxuI/AAAAAAAADPE/lAUxpuK35cE/s400/IMG_1586.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>Ooey gooey goodness.</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Top your oatmeal with your fave toppings such as maple syrup, chopped walnuts, coconut or raisins. My favourite way was to top it with some plain non-fat Greek yogourt drizzled with just a teeny weeny bit of maple syrup or honey. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ahS_dNA2FOw/UOzhARr1-OI/AAAAAAAADNo/GvyOHJiQ6zA/s1600/IMG_1598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_z7yyw3="2" eea="true" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ahS_dNA2FOw/UOzhARr1-OI/AAAAAAAADNo/GvyOHJiQ6zA/s400/IMG_1598.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Store the leftovers in your refrigerator and re-heat in the microwave for a quick, CLEAN and healthy weekday breakfast. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<strong><em>What's your favourite oatmeal topping?</em></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Have a great day, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Andrea</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
xoxo</div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-366069489509722674.post-45144081444273552382013-01-11T06:00:00.000-05:002013-01-11T06:00:01.798-05:00Winter Workouts - Keep Active, Keep Motivated<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hi! Are you as happy to see Friday as I am ?! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This first full week back to work has been L-O-N-G!!!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Luckily, it looks like we're going to have a pretty lowkey weekend. We have tickets to go cheer on the <a href="http://www.londonknights.com/">London Knights</a> (GO KNIGHTS GO!) and I'm planning to go to yoga tomorrow morning, but other than that I'm on no kind of schedule until Monday. {Bliss!!}</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am definitely one of those people who tends to go into 'hibernation-mode' in the winter. It's dark when I get up in the morning and it's starting to get dark by the time I get home from work and I find that my energy is totally zapped by the time dinner is done and cleaned up. This can make it very difficult to find the motivation to get anything accomplished in the evenings, especially a good workout. If I go to the gym right after work, I'm good, but if I go home first, I'm totally setting myself up for failure because once I get home, I do not want to leave the house again. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's not exactly the winter blues, I just hate going back out into the cold after I've come in and decompressed for the day. Instead of beating myself up about missing the gym, I've been pinning different circuit workouts and treadmill or elliptical workouts like crazy on my <a href="http://pinterest.com/veggieandrea/workouts-runs/">Workouts/Run</a> board. I've also decided to take a crack at making up some of my own circuit workouts to do at home. As soon as I get home from work, I tie up the sneakers and get to business. By 6:30 p.m., my workout is done, dinner's started and I still have time to <strike>obsessively watch Season 1 of Homeland</strike> snuggle with Derek and the pups before bed. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I do love the gym and prefer to do most of my workouts there, but on the evenings when I just can't get myself back out the door, these circuits have been doing the trick. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here is one that I did this week that I really enjoyed. My biceps and triceps were aching from a workout that I did earlier in the week, so I decided to focus on my core and lower body. It took just under 30 minutes and I definitely felt the*burn* (V-Sits <em>kill</em> me). I used 5lb weights when I did the lunges and squats to make it a little more challenging, but you don't need weights to get results. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BfVauPiIXBs/UO7yyDev68I/AAAAAAAADOc/V8YcrbaBbsI/s1600/Circuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BfVauPiIXBs/UO7yyDev68I/AAAAAAAADOc/V8YcrbaBbsI/s400/Circuit.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>(Click on workout to get a larger image)</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>*Before you go trying out a workout that I've put together, I want to note that I am not a certified personal trainer or trained expert in fitness. This is simply a workout that I put together for myself that I enjoyed and thought you might enjoy as well. Please make sure that you check with your family doctor before you start a new exercise or nutrition program, and most importantly, listen to your body.* </em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong><em>Do you have any tips on how to stay motivated through the cold winter months? </em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Enjoy the day and have a fabulous weekend! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I will see you on Sunday with some pictures from the week. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Andrea </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
xoxo</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Food for Thought: </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://fitgirlhappygirl.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/conditions1.jpeg"><img alt="" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-853" height="228" src="http://fitgirlhappygirl.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/conditions1.jpeg?w=300&h=228" title="Conditions" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Source: </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/36662184438393989/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pinterest </span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">via </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/kdt880/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Kimberly Krauss</span></a></div>
Andrea B @ Vegvacioushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16775274098267747234noreply@blogger.com55