What's the difference between Brazil Butt Lift and the Master Series?

There's Brazil Butt Lift and than there's Brazil Butt Lift Master Series. Two different programs, same amazing trainer--Leandro Carvahlo!

BUTT... (wink wink) which one do you do? Typically MOST would say you would do the original one first BBL#1 and then do the Master Series.

However, I would say either you can start off with and get an amazing workout. OR do both like me, and get that booty in the best shape possible! 

IDK about you all, but I was TIRED of wearing shorts or bikinis and being insecure. Nothing is worse than summer hitting/hot weather and feeling too self conscious to wear what you want! No thanks, I'll pass on that. I'd rather sweat in gym clothes than be covered at the beach ANYDAY! 

So here's the deets:

Brazil Butt Lift-

This is the original series that came out a few years back... Leandro is KNOWN for training Victoria Secret models. He was asked to create a program that would target the lower body (booty) but still be an all over workout. However, ladies were worried that their legs would bulk up from too many squats and obviously models needed a long LEAN look! So, Leandro Carvalho combines Brazilian dance, cardio, and his own signature lower-body sculpting moves to lift, firm, and shape your behind for a rear view you've only dreamed about.

• Uses the triangle method of targeting the booty--medius, maximum and minimus. Sounds like Greek gods right? Well you can look like a Grecian queen after this program! 
• Has FIVE workouts--Bum Bum, Tummy Tuck, Cardio Axe, High and Tight and Sculpt (and when you order through me or your Beachbody coach, you get a free workout--his Secret Weapon)
• Includes a meal plan and slim down plan
• Strengthening band (don't underestimate this at all!!!)
• Booty Makeover guide--you choose which plan to follow based on your butt shape and what you want to achieve see this post here for more info
• Can do for 30 or 60 days (or as long as you want)! I recommend 60 days to see AMAZING results! or do 6 weeks =)
• workouts are about 40 mins or LESS! 

 

Most of us struggle with the minims--so get prepared to lift and shape! 

The workouts are as follows: 5 Booty-blasting workouts

• BUM BUM: Leandro's signature workout (named after the Brazilian slang for "butt" and pronounced "boom-boom") combines fat-blasting cardio with the best lower-body sculpting moves you've ever tried. (35 min.)
• HIGH & TIGHT: Focus on all those stubborn trouble zones: the hips, glutes, and saddlebags. Leandro uses his secret weapons—the Strength Band and ankle weights—to lift your butt to new heights. (35 min.)
• SCULPT: In this video, Leandro takes you through a total-body workout with a sexy Brazilian twist, to sculpt your entire body while focusing on your glutes. Look like a sexy supermodel—lean and toned, without the bulk. (50 min.)
• CARDIO AXE: Feel like you're dancing in the streets of Brazil with Leandro's signature axe(pronounced "ah-shay"), a fat-burning, cardio-blasting, dance-based workout that delivers all-over slimming results fast. (30 min.)
• TUMMY TUCK: Leandro's surefire way to get flat, sexy abs in just 15 minutes. (15 min.)

Brazil Butt Lift Master Series-

Then there's the Master Series-- this is the second program he came out with for Beachbody--presenting a more in depth and dynamic training of the booty! What I LOVEEEEE about this one is that you use the stability ball, which happens to be my FAVORITE workout equipment ever because it not only challenges your core, but it's SO diverse. Oh, and be prepared to slap on some ankle weights, you're gana die!

• Still uses the triangle method of working out and lifting
• One schedule to follow: 30 days typically but as suggested above, do for 6 weeks to see great results!
• 3 NEW workouts with the Master Series, Leandro adds more tools, resistance, and angles to work multiple muscles at the same time and help you get your best overall bikini body ever.
• The workouts are 30 mins or less
• Stability ball and ankle weights
• 3 day cleanse plan to follow

The workouts:

• Bikini Body. Sculpt sexy muscles all over with hand weights and Leandro’s expert moves.
• Higher & Tighter. Elevate your bum bum and trim your core with multiple cycles of advanced moves using the stability ball.
• Ipanema Booty. Shape a firm, round booty using heavier ankle weights during intense sculpting on the stability ball.

Get tighter with 3 tools:

• Stability Ball. Keeps you engaging your core with every move, for your ultimate bikini body.
• Sculpting Guide. Follow Leandro's fitness and nutrition plan to succeed.
• Master Series 30-Day Calendar. Leandro shows you which workout to do each day, plus a hybrid option that includes the original Brazil Butt Lift DVDs.

My opinion: It's hard to choose which one is the BETTER program. They both offer different dynamics to the butt! I love the original one because of Bum Bum and High and Tight. I personally think both are KEY... a worthy investment! I love that the Master Series incorporates the ball because that really targets your lower back and in order to have a strong CORE and ABS you NEED to have a strong lower back. Plus there's dead lifts in the Master Series, which I've noticed a huge difference in the back of my thighs. So if you struggle with that area, Master Series can def help! The original one is also great for trouble spots--high and tight delivers a tough workout (and most of it is on the floor, who doesn't love to workout and lay down at the same time lol). If you seriously want an amazing ass, just get both!

Now what?!

Still torn? Email me and we can decide which one is best for you! Or join a challenge group here!

Ready to make the commitment to a booty makeover?

Brazil Butt Lift--the Original
Brazil Butt Lift Deluxe
Brazil Butt Lift Master Series

OR 

Get Brazil Butt Lift+Shakeology (click this link for more 411 on Shakeology)+Free Club membership (30 day trial) to Beachbody+Me as your coach and join the next challenge group!

For ORIGINAL series click HERE
For MASTER series pack click HERE

*I highly suggest the pack, Shakeology is KEEEEEYYYYYYYY in getting amazing results because it gives your body the nutrition it needs, the energy YOU need, and the results you want. I drink it URRYDAY without fail, and if I don't,well steer clear cuz I won't be AS nice! ;-) 

CIAO!
XOXO
Abby

Is Shakeology a Scam?

Is Shakeology a SCAM? I remember when I heard about Shakeology through a military wife because she posted so much about it on facebook. I SWORE up and down that she fell for some "gimmick" and that it was so stupid to think that a SHAKE could help you:
1. lose weight
2. have more energy
3. be good for you

LIKE REALLY? come on people. This so called "healthiest meal of the day" is suppose to do all that while be super natural and full of super foods, antioxidants, veggies, etc. huh. As if we didn't have enough "shakes" on the market promoting and promising "QUICK AND FAST" results!

SO I decided to check it out, being the natural cynic I was back then. LOL I have come a FAR far way! What did I have to lose? If it sucked, I would leave. no harm done.

See the thing was, back then I believed that these "pyramid scheme" businesses (MLMs specifically) were just out to empty our pockets. Plus I had done the whole small business thing--I did Mary Kay and Avon in highschool and after too. I knew I NEVER wanted a boss, but somehow I believed these (awesome) companies were out to get me. What a twisted mind set! ha!



I was FORTY FIVE minutes late to her Shakeology at home party. But at this point in my life I was pretty desperate to lose the 20lbs I packed on from being depressed and upset with my life (quarter life crisis). I listened, I watched a video, I tried it, I was hooked. It was more than a protein shake, it wasn't promising I would lose X amount of pounds by a certain time. It wasn't chemically enhanced to taste better, all the ingredients were listed on the bag (no hidden agenda there) and after doing some research on it, I discovered it was the best thing out there. PS folks, you GET what you PAY for.

There was no gimmick involved. I saw it like this:

1. Im not getting the nutrition I need--but if I drank Shakeology, I would.
2. I was sick AND TIRED of being sick and tired-and Shakeology would help my energy slumps
3. I was looking for something that could satisfy my insane chocolate cravings-Shakeology has a chocolate flavor and curbs cravings.
4. I needed to lose weight--I would lose weight the RIGHT way (not the desperate way--i.e. pills, fad diets, not eating, etc) drinking it because it did have my nutritional needs (and wasn't calorie restricted, many companies say you can only eat so much and you HAVE to drink their magic shake twice a day to lose weight. Not with Shakeology, once a day, and you eat every 2-3hours and workout).
5. I could get a discount by being a coach.-I like to save money. duh.

Here's how it can SAVE you money and TIME (time is money after all):




SO I signed up... and ordered Shakeology 3 weeks after because I wrestled with the idea of spending $90 on a bag of powder. But once I bought it, I never stopped. Here I am, two years later--still on it, down 20lbs, in the BEST shape of my life, working a small business from home--thats anything BUT small, helping other people and making the MOST money I ever have in my life. I also survived a divorce, moved a few times (one cross country!), and re-ivented myself to be a better me.

Does $90 worry me anymore? No. WHY? Because think about it--you spend more than $3 usually on a meal anyway-does it have your nutritional needs for the day? NO.

how many of you take supplements and other shakes? or pills? or powders? or constantly juicing? How much does that cost you each month?

EVEN if you wanted to re-create Shakeology you would pay at least double the cost of what it is. YIKES!

Watch this video to see where Shakeology comes from:




Want to try it? Trust me, you WON'T regret it, if anything, you'll probably fall in love with me and the shake ;-) Just click here! 

PLEASE friend request me so we can talk about your goals and I can help you! I don't want you to just order from me and be a name, I want to know you and hear what it is that you NEED, and that you're ready for a change like I was. Don't do it alone, let me help ya!

No Mayo Tuna sandwiches!

I love tuna sandwiches.

Esp mine.

What you Need:

• 2 cans of tuna (albarcore in water, costco baby!)
• 2 tbsp of relish-- add more for the right consistency/taste**
• 2 tbsp of mustard (I love dijon and spicy, I will add as much as I need for the right taste)
• 1 avocado or even guacamole works!  add more for the right consistency**
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 stalks of celery chopped
• optional: lettuce, tomato and jalapenos! MMM who doesn't love a good kick?!

Prep:

1. Open tuna and drain water
2. Chop celery and toss in a bowl with mustard, relish, avocado. Mix well.
3. Add tuna
4. add salt and pepper based on taste! 

I like to toast my bread, then garnish with jalapenos, lettuce and tomato! 

EAT IT. MMM so good. Pretty much just sub mayo for avocado! 

I also use Ezekiel bread because of the sprouted grains vs processed wheat or white! You can also find flourless bread at local health food stores or look online! 

What's the difference between P90X and Body Beast?

So right before I did Body Beast I did my 2nd round of P90X... and for some reason I thought they would be similar. Two guys making you lift weights, seems like it would be right? They're actually pretty different! Oh and ladies, just because it's P90X or Body Beast doesn't mean its not female friendly. If anything, more women should do these workouts to get that lean and long body we ALL dream of!

• Body Beast is 12 weeks long
• P90X is 13 weeks long
• Both feature free weights
• One Ab DVD in both (Beast Abs, and P90x Ab Ripper X)
• You will need a range of weights for both--I suggest bowflex select techs--ladies don't be afraid to go B-I-G! 
• Resistance bands for pull ups or a pull up bar
• Both come with meal plans and bonus DVDs =)

Other than those factors, they are VERY different. 

Body Beast: Sagi Kalev is the trainer and features three phases: 

Build (3 weeks, 6 days, 1 day off) building your foundation, learning the workouts and introducing your body to different sets

Bulk(6 weeks, 6 days, 1 day off) size begins to show, muscle definition is more obvious

Beast(3 weeks, 6 days, 1 day off) getting more cut, and chiseled! 

There are two schedules you can choose between BEAST and LEAN BEAST. I obviously chose LEAN. It also comes with supplements if you choose the Challenge Pack which are: Hardcore Base Shake, Super Suma, Fuel Shot, and Creatine! I chose to NOT take the supplements and stick to just Shakeology! 

• Beast features more of an isolated workout routine, where you use drop set, super set, and increasing your weights with each set (you do 15 reps of one weight, then 12, then 8). You also use a workout bench or stability ball for your workouts. 

• One cardio DVD---the  cardio DVD is pretty tough, I love that it has squats. However, it's only 30 minutes--which to some people is GREAT (cuz you may hate cardio). 

• Dynamic Set Training is a specific sequence of sets and reps which maximizes the muscle’s time under tension with the goal to exhaust the muscle and to recruit more muscle fiber. Dynamic Set Training is also designed to help enhance your body’s own testosterone production. Testosterone is the primary hormone responsible for developing muscle mass. The more testosterone the body makes, the faster it grows. 
• Most workouts are less then an hour and average about 45 mins, you focus on ONE body part at a time!

P90X: Tony Horton is obviously a house hold name when it comes to Beachbody... P90X also features three phases and has two schedules: LEAN and BULK. 

• P90X features three recovery phases in week 4, 8 and 13 which is a great way to REST your body from all the intense workouts
• Focuses on muscle failure and muscle confusion! Muscle failure is pushing till your absolute last tipping point, the last rep is what will CHANGE your muscles! You are pushing your muscles to the max during these workouts, lifting heavy at low reps.  You want your muscles to fail by the 8th-12th rep so that they then build themselves up stronger to do more the next time you work them. Muscle Confusion features mixing up your workouts every few weeks so you don't create muscle memory which can create stagnant results or a plateau. Plus it keeps it from being boring!
• Most workouts are 60 minutes long, featuring different areas of the body (Back and Biceps, Legs and Back, etc). You will do a lot of push ups and pull ups. 
• P90X comes with a YOGA DVD thats 90 minutes long. Yes I know, 90 minutes is a long time, but I encourage you to make it to 45 mins to an hour, your body will thank you, plus you will get a longer leaner look from stretching your muscles (think elongating). 

My personal  opinion, I can't say one is better than the other. At first I REALLY missed P90X because I enjoyed using different body parts, but I LOVE that Body Beast is shorter on workouts so I can get back to my true love of Brazil Butt Lift on the same days. However, if you have never tried Chalene Extreme, that is probably my FAVORITE workout and resistance DVD program (stay tuned for that post). 

Here are my P90X results: 

**this was from Jan 2011-April 2011 I also included 30 days of Insanity AFTER I finished p90x to lean out. =)

I'm on week 4 of Body Beast right now, so stay tuned for my results.

READY for a change? Message me now/friend request me so we can figure out which workout would be best for you!

Which Brazil Butt Lift Schedule Should I Do?

The booty. Bootylicious. DAT ASS. The badonkadonk. Rear end. Caboose. Ok that's enough. But you get the idea right? It's the last thing to leave the room, so lets make an impression that's worthwhile eh?

SOO... which Brazil Butt Lift schedule do you follow? And what kind of results can you expect?!

Assuming you already have BBL (if not, click the link above to get it), you've opened up your package and received a booklet where you:

1. Need to determine your booty shape already-- are you too flat, pear, too round or combination?
2. Pencil test, put that tiny little pencil in the crease of your butt cheek-if your booty can hold it, girl we got WORK to do, if it can't your ass is probably either nice and lifted, or you have no ass. Don't worry we can fix the ladder.

Too Flat/Too Square: Do you suffer from lack of curves? Well no worries, that's where Leandro and his DVDs come in handy. If you have a flat ass or no ass at all, the pencil will probably fall to the ground. The flat fanny lacks shape and volume. This butt needs some POW! If you are this type, your straight shape extends from the waist to the thighs with no curves.

Solution: You will follow the "Lift & Shape" schedule. This schedule will help you shape and tone all of the butt muscles for a "volumizing" result! Follow this plan to get rounder and firmer!

Pear Shape: Curves are a GOOD thing, so embrace that you have it! BUT if you have curves that need some firming, and have a pear shaped booty, you may find yourself a little bottom heavy! Larger hips & stubborn saddlebags that stick out to the side give you a wide-angle silhouette.
Solution:  You will follow the "Slim & Shape" schedule. This is going to deliver the optimal combo of cardio and toning work. Leandro's signature Brazilian dance moves will slim those bulges while the toning moves with shape the muscles underneath so your butt rounds out BEHIND you, not to the sides.

Too Big: Dat ass. It's big. Hey that IS OK, but as long as it's not stopping traffic and causing accidents in a bad way (think pull over dat ass too fat). It's cool, I was a traffic jam booty. While your booty is round & full, it's too heavy and busts  out in the wrong places. Usually flabby and dimply (eek cellulite), it's a little too much of a good thing. Solution: You already have the VA VA VOLUME- you just want to slim down and tame that beast! You need help getting rid of the cellulite so you require cardio and sculpting to burn the fat and shape your booty.  Follow the "Slim & Lift" schedule. You'll shape your booty in all of the right. To reduce cellulite, make sure you are eating a diet rich in natural whole foods and drink your water (60-100 oz).

Combination: Not sure which booty you have? Maybe a combination? A-OK! All you need is to remove part of the fat and get some shapely toned muscles to add oomph to your backside.

Solution: You'll follow the "Classic" Schedule for the ultimate booty-beautifying results. You'll work everything in balance to create a bootylicious butt!

Pencil Test: dun dun dun... it's ok. I didn't pass. White girl with a booty alert! Proud of it! BUT it needed a lot of work (and still does, think maintenance)

Here's my friend Kati's results: 

Let me reassure you right now that Leandro is one of my FAVORITE trainers and he delivers a GREAT workout and even better results! It's no wonder the girls in Brazil are freakin gorgeous with amazing bodies, they're following his program! Did I mention that he also trains Victoria Secret models?! YEP. 

And if you're worried if this is JUST a butt workout, it's NOT. It includes an all over body cardio workout and a weight resistance workout. So we got you covered! From head to toe and all that in between! Here's some clips from the ab workout! and yes, that's me (when I first started it two years ago) 

I want it but NOW WHAT?! A few tips from me to YOU!

• Join a group, in fact join one of mine and let me help you get through the next 6-8 weeks with one on one accountability! support is KEY! and Ive done it, so I know the changes you will see.
• Replace one meal a day with Shakeology
• A meal plan! BBL comes with one but I highly recommend also checking out eatcleandiet.com and learn about nutrition! 
• Get a girlfriend to join you! Then Friend Request me for MORE tips! 

OR if you want it ALL for cheaper, get the Brazil Butt Lift Challenge pack that comes with your DVDs, a free meal plan club membership, Shakeology (get chocolate, trust me), FREE shipping and ME as your coach! Super easy and SO worth it! 

My results:

Chalene Johnson Success Seminar--My Experience and Review

Michelle and I! Day 3! She came from Vegas and stayed with me for the weekend! 

Chalene. Johnson. WOW what a GREAT weekend with my teammates and family. One of my BIGGEST takeaways this past weekend was the value of myself, my time, and the people I surround myself with.

Imagine you have a garden that you plan on growing the most beautiful flowers, herbs, and veggies in. Its the nutrition your body needs, so you take care of it the best you can. What happens when you get weeds? You pull them and prevent them from coming up right? So why don't we do the same in our lives. Often times we have things or people in our lives that don't serve us...sometimes it can be a bad habit, or a negative self thought, or a friendship that drags you down. It's time to pull the weeds in your life. Take care of your garden.

Another big take away-STOP TRYING TO DO EVERYTHING ALL THE TIME ALL BY YOURSELF. You weren't mean to be a super hero, you were meant to be a human, beautifully flawed. Not a robot that runs off batteries to work work work. Look for ways to maximize your efforts in less time and let yourself LIVE. *ahem all you control freaks out there, go get some help, free up your time and realize your value! delegate!

What does SUCCESS mean to you? to me it meant: I feel EXCITED everyday, I wake up and jump out of bed because my reality far surpasses my dreams. I work from home, less than 30 hours a week, but in that time I HELP people get in shape and teach fitness classes. I have a successful blog with recipes, fashion, fitness, and health. Not only am I at the top of the company, but so are many of my teammates who are defining what their future is! I travel once a month (weekend get aways) to beautiful places with my loved ones and boyfriend Ulises. I have the FREEDOM to choose what I WANT to do with my weeks and days. I spend time with my friends and family and honor my relationships with my loved ones. I'm constantly growing in my faith, fitness, business, and finances. I continually show people that theres an abundant life, and that mediocrity is just an "easy out".

*The Three AMIGAS! ;-) Lindsay Matway and Kati Heifner! 

*Like SISTERS! <3 

*Finally got to meet Mindy and see my love, Lindsay Stay! 

Thank you to my amazing boyfriend who has also been a big inspiration and push for me and my dreams!

My advice, when she does it again: GO! and go with your team or significant other. Remember, growth is KEY!

Oh, one last thing. I did go to Tony Robbins event and some asked how its different, since most would assume that all seminars are about personal wellness and development. Which Chalene does a GREAT job of delivering that. But She also touches a lot on business and was very specific about certain ways to maximize efforts and time. I felt her seminar had a different approach. I think I got MORE out of Chalene's event because I did see Tony Robbins first and was able to break past some serious mental barriers. Also she mentioned EMDR therapy, which Im going tonight. So Chalene, if you are reading this, you would be proud! ;-)

XOXO,
Abby

Shred Into Summer Challenge

Insanity Results: Aimee lost 34lbs in 60 days!

Tina G. is a New York police officer who decided to take the Insanity Challenge. She had mind blowing results and lost over 17 lbs and 9 1/2 inches off of her entire body.

Brazil Butt Lift Results:  

"Pregnancy had changed my body so much and when I looked in the mirror I cringed...Brazil Butt Lift and Shakeology® have changed my life more than words can explain...When the first 30 days passed I looked at my after pictures and was floored. Is this really me?!! I was so proud that my body was changing just like Leandro Fitness had promised. I wanted to see what the next 30 days were going to hold for me. When I looked at my 60 day photos I cried. This time it was tears of joy. I got my body back.""Check out Sarah E! She lost 19lbs and 14" in 60 days on Brazil Butt Lift!"

The first time I did Insanity I didn't realize the clock on the TV was ticking down the minutes I had left until I could regain my sanity AKA until the workout was over. I thought the WARM UP was the workout! Then quickly realized I had 30 minutes to go. Needless to say, my ass was TIRED. 

But did I get AMAZING results?! YES

Did I increase my endurance and stamina?! YES

Did I get to my lowest weight ever? YES

Did I feel and look good? HELL YES

I've got a challenge for you. STARTS WITH CHANGE.

Here's the DEAL:

I remember seeing this poster that said "I'd rather be covered in sweat at the gym than be covered in clothes at the beach" Well IDK about you, but I sure as hell don't want to worry about wearing shorts, skirts or t-shirts this summer if it's nice out. I've been there, not wanting to wear shorts because I was insecure and unhappy with my body physically. I also remember skipping events because I was disappointed with myself. Those days are LONG gone, and they can be for you too =) 

I'm looking for just a few more ladies and gents to get ripped, toned, and ready for change! 

LAST day to REGISTER for the SHRED INTO SUMMER challenge is TOMORROW*** 4/11 Ready to get ripped or bikini ready for summer?! This challenge is 60 days long--you choose your program: Insanity (60 day boot camp style workout) that's $25 OFF this month only, Brazil Butt Lift (an all over body workout with an emphasis on the booty) or Combat (another 60 day workout with martial art style workouts)! 

TO JOIN:

1. Click here and fill out the application:http://abbymaried.blogspot.com/p/join-bombshell-challenge.html I will help you choose the best program depending on your goals and fitness level! IT's THAT EASY! Nutrition (Shakeology)+Fitness(workout program)+Support (me and the challenge group/participants)=SUCCESS!

2. Go HERE and sign up with your Challenge Pack choose either BBL, Insanity or Combat. Also choose your flavor of Shakeology (our kick ass yummy meal replacement with ALL your nutritional needs, no caffeine, gluten free, and packed with antioxidants and super foods) 

3. Then request to be apart of the group HERE! Where I will approve you! 

IF you already have a program but need Shakeology, click here! *you must buy on HD (home direct) so that you can get the free shipping (WOOOO) and have enough to last you through the 60 days. If you need to cancel afterwards (which I doubt you will want to after the results you will see) I can help you with that easily, takes about 2 minutes! 

Is Shakeology required?! YES. It's a way to ensure we are all on the SAME supplement and the EASIEST and FASTEST way to reach your goals. I'm here to COACH you and help you through it, and Shakeology is the KEY ingredient. Are your GOALS worth it? Are you? 

**NOTE : INSANITY is $25 off this month only! when you buy the Insanity Challenge Pack!

Jalapeno Avocado Black Bean Burger

Looks good huh? Looks don't do this bad boy any justice. AT ALL. I took this recipe from Women's health and posted it on my  LIKE PAGE please go and LIKE me for recipes, fashion, fitness, and well being! =) (http://www.womenshealthmag.com/nutrition/veggie-burger-recipes)

So my boyfriend and I decided to try this recipe, and he was such a big help in the kitchen, esp since I hate dishes. and my sink is tiny. and I hate cleaning. But he's awesome. and I'm pretty sure he was just as into these as I was! Wait... isn't he CUTE?! AWH. 

What you will Need:

• 1 1/2 cans of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup of rolled oats
• 1/2tsp of black pepper
• 1tbsp of cumin
• 1/2tbsp of garlic powder
• 1 egg *substitute: for vegan option, use 1tbsp of ground flax and 3 tbsp of water 
• 1/2tbsp or 1tbsp (depends on your preference) of chili powder

1. BLEND the above ingredients or put in food processor. Then pack the patties into palm size portions, and fire up the grill or heat up your George Foreman (like muahhh) and coat the patties in olive oil so they don't stick. Grill each side for a few minutes until crispy exterior. 
2. Slice up avocado and tomatoes, place on top of patties and add jalapeños! Add whole wheat or multigrain buns! 
3.  Stuff your face! 

Coconut Strawberry Quinoa Protein Pancakes

Ok well if you couldn't tell, I love breakfast, more specifically--pancakes. And I'll take them just about anyway I can get them, but I LOVE them when they're healthy, don't leave me feeling lethargic and I know they're good for me!
This is a TOTAL original RECIPE, so please SHARE my BLOG with other pancake lovers!
So without further adieu...

What you will need:

• 1 cup of cooked quinoa
• 3/4 cup of brown rice flour
• 1/2cup of unsweetened coconut
• 1tsp of baking powder
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
• 1 tbsp of agave nectar 
• 1/3 cup of plain or vanilla greek yogurt
• dash of Himalayan salt
• 1/4 cup of almond or coconut milk
• dash of cinnamon

Prepare:

1. Cook quinoa (2c water, bring to boil, add 1c of quinoa) put on simmer with a lid
2. While quinoa is cooking, gather rest of ingredients.
3. Combine protein powder, flour, salt, unsweetened coconut, cinnamon--wisk
4. Combine wet ingredients-agave, egg whites, milk, yogurt-wisk
5. Once quinoa is cooked, add into dry ingredients and mix well, then add wet ingredients, mix well!
6. Heat skillet with 1tbsp of olive oil or coconut oil and then cook smaller pancakes. 
7. Cut up fresh strawberries--add on top of pancakes last

VOILA you are DONE! enjoy!

XOXO, 

Abby

Fish Foil Dinner Recipe

MMMM this is so EASY

What you need:

• fish of your choice, I used Tilapia 
• foil
• olive oil
• seasoning of your choice--I used lemon pepper
• 1/2 lemon
• 1/2 lime
• Asparagus 1 bunch
• 1 green and 1 red bell pepper
• 1 or 2 sweet potatoes
• agave nectar
• almond slivers
• cinnamon

Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees

1. De-thaw fish unless fresh, then marinate in foil with seasoning, lemon, lime for about 15-30 minutes while you cut up bell peppers and asparagus. I cut up asparagus into chunks to cook through faster. Toss fish and veggies to coat with seasoning in foil. 
2. Rinse sweet potatoes, stab with fork all over, wrap in paper towel and microwave for about 5-6 minutes (depending on size). When its done, cut into chunks and peel off skin. Place in olive oil coated pyrex and sprinkle cinnamon and agave nectar on top. Add almond slivers! 
3. Cook both for about 30 minutes or less. Keep an eye on fish, may cook faster then asparagus! 

TA-DA! You're done! 

XOXO, 

Abby 

Clean & Healthy Protein Chocolate Chip Strawberry Crepes-Vegan and Vegetarian friendly!

Holy crepe! hahahah. I know what a lame joke. but for REALS holy CRAP!!!!

I'm about to get crepe! ;-) Ok no more jokes. They're horrible.

Clean and Healthy Chocolate Chip Strawberry Oatmeal Crepes 

What you will need:

• 1cup of old fashioned oats
• 3/4c of almond milk
• 2 bananas cut up into chunks
• 1 1/2 tsp of baking soda
• 1 scoop of Protein Powder *optional, however I added it--add Vegan protein powder to keep it vegan/vegetarian 
• 1/4tsp of dash of salt
• dash of cinnamon

Preparation: Grab your blender, no bowls necessary!

1. Combine bananas and almond milk in blender, blend until smooth.
2. Add rest of ingredients, blend. 
3. Let batter sit for a few minutes and heat up skillet with a tbsp of olive oil
4. Put palm size cakes onto pan and let cook for a few minutes, until edges start to curl up (PATIENCE IS KEY HERE!!!)
5. Flip when edges curl and then cook other side (very quick). **NOTE: will be VERY thin and flimsy, so flip with caution and if it's not cooked all the way, let side cook thoroughly. 
6. Cut up fresh strawberries and lay crepes flat, then fold over when you stuff strawberries in it. Add maple syrup, honey or agave nectar! 

BON APPETITE! 

XOXO,

Abby 

Why your excuses SUCK and how YOU can get PAST them!

Bold statement right?

Good (insert grump cat face here)

But seriously. We ALL have excuses, we all have reasons why we can or can't do something. But let me tell you why your (and even my) excuses suck for the things that need to get done.

1. Excuses are planned lies-learned that at a good ole Dani Johnson seminar. If you plan on excusing yourself from something, and whatever the excuse is, if it's not a legit reason, is just a planned lie. ESP if its something THAT has to get done, you're putting off the inevitable (ahem, tax season anyone?) and the consequences are growing by the second!

2. Excuses make you look bad-plain and simple. I know that when I use and used excuses to get out of the things that needed my attention, my reputation paid for it. My word started to lose it's purpose and credibility. We are all in sales, whether you realize it or not, and when you sell yourself short because you can't or won't follow through, your loss. TRUST me, it sucks! *You are in sales-- Whether you want someone to like you (guy or girl), be your friend, convince your parents of something, husband or wife, customers, you name it.

3. Your excuses are usually correlated to something you fear, and guess what fear does? It holds you back, fear and being uncomfortable keep you in your safety zone, where things are certain to either fall to shit or... stay the same, which is pretty much the same thing (you are either dying or growing). So that thing you really don't want to do (like workout or eat right) JUST DO IT, because the sooner you do, the sooner you exercise that muscle to make SHIT happen! (pardon my french ;-) )

So what can you do?

1. Recognize that FEAR that's behind your excuse, what are you really afraid of? what is it that makes you so uncomfortable that you don't want to do this particular thing? Is it that you're afraid to fail? You're not enough? You're overwhelmed? You doubt you can do it? take the time to hear yourself think---recognize the positive and negative self talk. This step is probably the hardest and needs to be addressed right away! Tell yourself that you CAN do it, that you are worth it. Watch the Secret and read Tony Robbin's Book

2. Don't take on TOO much, if you say you are going to do something, make sure it aligns with your top 3 priorities in life, and if it doesn't and takes away from your life, it's time to re-evaluate! Remember it's about quality, not quantity. So if you are apart of too many clubs, PTAs, and other meetings, and seem to struggle keeping your word--time to take a step back and choose what's really important!

3. Be honest--If the excuse is holding you back from getting something done, just tell the truth to yourself and whoever else. If it matters to you, you will find a way, if it doesn't matter to you, you will find an excuse right? Does it matter to you? GET REAL with yourself. At least if you are going to be honest, be honest to YOU and accept that it's ok to tell yourself the truth. There's an undeniable power in being REAL and RAW with who you are and what you want and don't want for your life!

Smooth, Silky Hair-Great for Blondes!

Dye. Chemicals. Split Ends. The End.

or something along those lines, but either way, I don't want fried split ends to be the end result! So I hunted down some amazing products... and this is what I love so far!

K-Pak by Joico for hair-esp color treated hair! I've tried a LOT of Shampoos and Conditioners and this one I keep coming back to... it makes my hair feel fuller and stronger!

Kendi Bamboo Oil-the stick to your dynamite baby! So good! I use to use moroccan oil and it left my hair a LOT oilier then I liked and it was way over priced. But this is def WORTH the money!

Aphogee Keratin 2 minute reconstructor--I'm not sure of the quality of this product, but I like it! I use it when needed, so if my hair is feeling pretty dry and brittle I will use this in the shower while I shave my legs!

Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Tri Wheat Leave in Conditioner-UHM this I cannot go without! Between the kendi oil and this one, they are the two must haves on my list and well worth it! This leave in conditioner and detangler are my go to truly will detangle any knot you have!

Miriam Quevedo's Sublime Gold Hair Mask--the ultimate hair mask IMO (in my opinion) for knotted, rough, split end, son of bitch hair! Seriously, if you are struggling with your ends, slap this on in the shower, comb it through, leave it on for the duration of your shower and rinse out! My favorite! I was lucky enough to find this at Marshall's for about $10, as you can see it's def more then that here!

You're welcome!

XOXO

Abby