on-line shopping at it's finest!

Ever herd of CSNstores.com?

I have mentioned them before but this time around your REALLY going to want to come back to read my review. This company has over 200 + websites.
In total, CSN Stores has over 1 million products and that number is constantly growing.
You can literally spend all day looking for the perfect product (I did when I should have been making dinner and ended up with take-out!). Ooooppps! From twin beds to kitchen appliances, they've got it all! No doubt! Shop from home....why not?

Keep your cool.

OMG, it is SUMMER TIME in Athens baby. It is so damn hot here that I am sweating just thinking about the afternoon. When it is this hot two things come to mind....1: I don't mind working when it is like this and 2: the pool. That is pretty much it. Looks like my air conditioner is going to be put to some good use this year. At least I have had one! I have lived places before without a cooling or heating unit at all. So, needless to say...I am grateful.

This is my second day back at work and man....it it tough. I have just gotten to that point where I kinda cringe at the thought of going in....Ever been there? I know that you have. The other night I was laying in bed reading and tore out a quote and stuck it to my wall so that I would see it when I woke each morning. It says "If you do the same things, you get the same results." I am and have been working towards getting closer to some of my goals in life. Sometimes you can get too comfortable with just "floating" as I like to call it. Well my friends....it may be better to float than sink but I am ready to swim!

Because of the hot weather here in Georgia I am finding myself not wanting to do anything really. Summer is the perfect time to go outside and have fun. It's one of my favorite times of year because there are so many outdoor activities to choose from. Everything is more fun outside, whether you're swimming, running or cycling.But the summer heat can be a problem if you're not careful, particularly in areas with extreme heat and humidity. When the days are longer and it warms up I find myself out and about way later than usual. This year is different though. Before, when I didn't have air conditioning I would want to get out and do things, find places to cool off or go swimming. This time around...I am wanting to just stay put at the house. Now, this could be because I didn't do that much (or as I had originally planned anyway) during my vacation. I am going to challenge myself to really push to get outside even if it is hot and I am a sweaty mess in minutes. I did get somethings done this past week but not nearly as much as I hoped. Once noon rolled around I wasn't in the mood to really move. I even moved my Sunday run from 10:30 am to 9:30 and half way into it I felt as though I was going to have a heat stroke. No kidding. My weekly walks on my lunch break I fear will be hell. Today I am back at work and back on the walks. I gotta do it so I am just trying my best to double (even triple) up on my water. I think that it is important no matter where you live to understand what to do when the weather and seasons change. We are no longer enjoying Spring here, it is Summer, whether the calendar says so or not. Getting up to the high 90's (today 98) reminds me of a few things to do and not to do. I wanted to share them with you!


Drink plenty of fluids. It's extremely important to stay hydrated. If you're thirsty then you are already dehydrated; drink before you feel a need to. Be sure to drink throughout the day (stick to non-caffeinated beverages, preferably water). Also, drink 15-20 minutes before beginning your workout and every 15 minutes throughout the exercise.
Eat regularly. The heat can decrease your appetite, but it's important to eat normally. Try to eat small meals 5-6 times per day. Include lots of fruits and vegetables. Aside from being nutritious, fruits also tend to help with hydration.
Wear light, loose fitting clothes that can breath. Cotton is always a good choice. If your outdoor activity produces a lot of perspiration, consider clothing that is designed to wick the sweat away.
Wear sunscreen. Even if you exercise early in the morning or late in the evening, if the sun can reach you then you can get burned. Not only is a sunburn bad on the skin and potentially dangerous but it also hinders your bodies ability to stay cool.
Use common sense and don't attempt strenuous activities that your body is not accustom to. Stick to exercises that you are very familiar and comfortable with.
Check the weather forecast. It's best not to participate in intense outdoor exercise sessions when the heat index registers in the dangerous zone.


What you should not do:
Don't try to diet by sweating. Excessive perspiration is not the key to permanent weight loss. Any decrease in the scale would simply be a result of water loss, not fat reduction.
Don't adapt the "no pain, no gain" motto. Ignoring your body's signals could be dangerous. Heat-related illnesses come with warning signs. Be sure to learn how to recognize them and what actions to take.
Don't forget to drink plenty of liquid when swimming. Just because your body is surrounded by water does not mean that you are well-hydrated. As with any land exercises, you need to regularly replenish lost fluids when in the pool.
Avoid physical activity during the hottest part of the day, which usually is between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
If you want (or need) to be working in very hot temperatures, don't do it until you become acclimated. Try to spend only a few minutes per day in the hot conditions for the first couple of weeks and then add time gradually each day.
Avoid extreme changes in temperature. Don't hop from being extremely hot and sweating excessively right into an ice cold, air-conditioned environment. Try to cool your body down slightly before exposing it to the extreme temperature variation. Whether you have to work outside or do it for enjoyment, following the above tips will help you stay cool and safe during the dog days of summer. So, don't spend the season cooped up, get out there and have some fun!

I plan on taking my own advice and getting out there too. I look forward to this season all year so I need to take advantage of it. Dont be afraid (or even lazy like me at times) just be prepared and you will be just fine!

See you tomorrow and have a great day!

-Heather

Monday looks good on me!

OOooooOOOoooooo LALA! Boy did I have a "vacation". I will have to tell you a bit more about it tomorrow. I plan on doing a recap pf all that went on. First though....

I got something pretty darn special in the mail! I usually get health related products but when I saw this company and their products I just had to ask…The folks at Misikko.com sent me a Hana Professional Flat Iron! I was so happy to see that the flat iron would be thin enough for my short hair! I use to have a flat iron but it was too wide for my locks and ended up selling it to Karen. She has thick locks that needs a wider iron so it was perfect for her! This beauty is just PERFECT!!! I got the pink iron and it is sooooo cool! This thing gets HOT! Let me tell you about it first though!
Dedicated to high ceramic content and top of the line components, Hana's pursuit of high tech styling without hype led to the Hana Professional Flat Iron - Advanced Fusion Molding delivers glass-smooth ceramic-tourmaline plates while accelerated negative ion output repairs hair follicles, sealing in natural oils for a conditioned, sleek, salon shine that lasts all day.
With professional features like damp-to-dry styling, floating plates that self adjust to different textures and adjustable temperature, the Hana Professional hair straightener is engineered to deliver luxury at a down to earth price.
Hana Professional Features:
Advanced Tourmaline Ceramic Plates for Accelerated Ion Generation and Maximum Frizz-Free, Conditioning Shine
Ceramic is naturally hygienic, protects color & retards fading
Floating 1” Plates Auto-Adjust To Glide Over Any Hair Texture
Curved Plate Edges For Versatile Styling - Curl, Flip or Straighten!
Adjustable Temperature Dial - 5 Settings from 140-450° F for All Hair Types
Flash Heats in Seconds with Instant Compensation for Heat Loss
Ergonomic Handle Design with No-Slip Grip
Smooth Grooves Keep Hair Strands Separate and Snag-Free
Tangle-Free Salon Quality Cord Swivels 360°; Convenient Hanging Loop
Energy Efficient at 38 Watts
Independent On/Off Switch
Includes Luxe Heat Proof Storage Pouch, Heat Proof Silicone Mat, & Special Edition Tin Case
Two Year Warranty
So you know that I just had to get to business…I love my hair straight. So, into the bathroom I went to straighten this curly hair of mine. You wanna see the "before" and "after"? Well, I took photo's and all and then I erased them right when I was trying to plug it into the laptop to upload them to the blog.....No worries....I will be wearing my hair straight a ton so I promise to have a picture soon!

I give this flat iron a 10! It is amazing! If you are in the market for a flat iron and want one that WORKS and FAST! GO TO:

www.misikko.com

They have a ton to choose from too. I would go with the Hana if you want great quality.

Thanks again for sending me this iron! My locks look great and I now that I know that I am not frying my hair I have no problem with straightening it. I will have a pic up soon!

See you tomorrow!
-Heather

We made, or did we?

It's ALMOST end of the week (well, not for me but you know....). I hope you all had a fabulous week and I hope your weekend goes even better! I plan to have some fun in the sun! It is going to rain (30%) but that wont stop me!


I have been thinking about something lately....Sunscreen...







What kind do you like? I have been looking at all natural sunscreens and I cant decide. Here are the "top ten" that I found...


According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), four out of five sunscreens do not provide adequate protection from the sun. Many of these sunscreens contain toxic chemicals which are absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. Here are the top 10 natural sunscreens according to the EWG:


1. Soléo Organics All Natural Sunscreen


2. Badger Sunscreen for Face and Body


3. Sanre Organic Skinfood Supple Sunshine, SPF 30


4. Keys Soap Solar Rx Cosmetic Moisturizing Sunblock, SPF 30


5. Marie-Véronique Organics Crème Du Jour


6. California Baby Sunscreen Lotion No Fragrance, SPF 30+


7. Devita Solar Protective Moisturizer


8. UV Natural Sunscreen


9. True Kid "Sunny Days" Natural Mineral Sunscreen Stick


10. Tropical Sands Sunscreen Lotion





Let me know if you have tried any of these...


The question is often asked: "Why wear sunscreen... does it really work?"


Experts agree that sunscreen is effective... yet it's not foolproof.
Who recommends sunscreen?
Several studies by health leaders in the United States lend credence to the importance of sunscreen. The following organizations declare sunscreen a necessary tool in the prevention of skin cancer:
American Academy of Dermatology
American Academy of Pediatrics
American Cancer Society
American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
US Department of Heath and Human ServicesYour first action should be to avoid the sun as much as possible. Experts agree that sunscreen is the next best defense against skin cancer.
Epidemic
Excessive sun exposure is thought to be the primary cause of skin cancer. Sunbathing and tanning appears to be responsible for the rise in skin cancer rates.
Skin cancer in the US is an unrecognized epidemic--American Academy of Dermatology
The Mayo clinic reports that fully one-half of all new cancers are skin cancer. Increasing at the rate of 6% per year, one million new cases occur annually. And skin cancer is occurring at a much younger age than ever before.
A little vanity
Would you like to ward off premature aging... a.k.a. wrinkles? Experts claim that 90% of deteriorating skin changes are due to sun damage, not old age.
Then there are the nasty, rough bumps known as solar keratosis... not attractive!
Sunscreen goes a long way in preventing such damage. Need another reason?
Consider your health...Healthy skin, healthy body
Some claim a tan is healthy. Why wear sunscreen if this is true? But experts state there is no safe level of tanning. Small doses of unprotected sunshine - 15 minutes at a time, a few days a week - is a good source of vitamin D. A suntan, however, indicates that the skin has been damaged.
Excessive sun exposure may also suppress your immune system. This in turn can interfere with your body's natural ability to ward off infection and disease.
Who needs sun protection?
Everyone! Yes, some individuals are more susceptible to skin cancer, such as those with ...
Fair skin
Blue eyes
Skin that freckles or burns easily. These people need to be extra vigilant. But catching too many rays will harm even those with dark skin.
False sense of security
The downside of using sunscreen is the belief that you can spend extra time in the sun as long as you slather it on. Sunscreen does not provide 100% protection, however. Use sunscreen as a tool that allows you to spend time outside enjoying life. Just don't spend too much time in the sun.
Sunscreen is but one piece of the protection puzzle. For the best plan of action, follow these guidelines:
Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Hang out in the shade. Sip a cool one under an umbrella, canopy, or tree. Be aware, however, shade does not offer complete protection.
Wear clothing that shields your body. A hat with a wide brim guards face, ears, neck and eyes. Add a long-sleeved shirt and pants for complete protection. Choose a tight weave and a loose fitting style.
Don't forget those cool shades! Choose sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA and UVB protection (as stated on the label).
Bottom line ...
Why wear sunscreen?
Protection from the sun is the single most effective means to maintaining young looking, healthy skin.






Just remember....what you do (or dont do) will catch up to you! Put on yer sunscreen!

See you Monday, go enjoy yourself!


-Heather

I just had to do it...

It is Tuesday and you know what that means....The week is well on it's way!!! YAY! This is a short but sweet post!


In celebration, I just had to dig into this.

I mean...it's been staring at me for a week now...I kept it in the fridge and though "Ok, save it for when you just have got to have come chocolate and you may just kill someone for a piece." Well, I do have these moments from time to time but why wait! I wanted something sweet (I have no idea why...I rarely want sweets in the morning, usually savory is my go to breakfast). Well I present to you a lovely way to start or end the day... Raw Cacao Walnut Brownie from The Raw Bakery line was just as good as I thought it would be. My taste buds never prove me wrong.




The Raw Bakery produces a full line of organically delicious low-temperature dehydrated sweet and savory super food treats. We use ingredients from our Better Than Roasted line, offering a raw, wholesome alternative to traditional bakery products. All of The Raw Bakery's whole nuts, seeds, and grains have gone through the Better Than Roasted process, which means they have been soaked, sprouted, and dehydrated. Sprouted nuts and seeds are easier to digest because our process removes phytates, which have been found to inhibit digestion.
The Better Than Roasted sprouting process also increases the bioavailability of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in our nuts and seeds.
The Raw Bakery is excited to offer a purely satisfying alternative to baked goods.





check out the ingredients and the nutritional info!


Ingredients: Dates, Agave, Cacao Powder, Walnut, Golden Flax.


That's it!!! I just may have to tinker around and try to make my own ;)

Ok, so I will admit...I didn't look at the nutritional info until AFTER I ate it (who the hell am I???) and I am kinda glad but also, who gives! I did the deed and I don't care. I don't think that 280ish cals is a bad way to start the morning and why when I knew that it was just 5 ingredients? I am glad that I only got one....these things are dangerous! Go to their site...You will see what I mean...



http://www.bluemountainorganics.com/



Seriously, when you go to the site you will be overwhelmed with raw goodness. I have had the pleasure of tasting a few items and every single time I get something from them I jump for joy. Keep it up Blue Mountain, you guys rock!



So, how do you start your mornings if you want something sweet? See you Thursday, I am not able to post tomorrow but Thursday will be a great post!



-Heather

MIA but with you in mind.

Hey all! I have missed you guys SO much!!! I am ready to jump right in to this post! Let's go!

Just the other day I got this handy little gadget! I was so excited when it came my way…I love tofu and with this product now in my house I can squeeze the water right out of it and be left with tasty firm tofu!
Many people today want to add tofu into their diet and enjoy its benefits - it's a great source of protein, low in fat, high in calcium, and more!
For those that aren't adding tofu, you may want to try it now! The TofuXpress improves tofu:
Removes water easily! It fries better! Bakes better! Grills better! Add flavor by marinating!
No more plates, weights, paper towels!
That's why you'll want our new and unique product, the TofuXpress! It's also great for pressing other foods as well! You will find it will become your most favorite kitchen tool. Vegans, vegetarians, flexitarians, macrobiotics, and foodie's will love the TofuXpress!

Pressing tofu with the TofuXpress
Press water out of chopped spinach, sliced eggplant, canned foods, pressed salads, etc!

For those who have not enjoyed tofu because you could not get the water out, try the TofuXpress and you will love it! Guaranteed!!!
Well I put this baby to the test and I gotta say….it really works! I really thought that the design was really cool and it fit perfectly on my shelf. It barely took up any space in my cabinet and it made all the difference in the way my tofu came out! I will be using this thing over and over and not just for tofu! You gotta love a product that has multiple functions! If you don’t know what tofu is or how to use it here is some info!
What is Tofu?

Tofu is made from a bean, the Soybean. The Soybean is a wonderful source of protein!
Marinating Tofu: Marinating is a process that allows for flavoring to be added to a food. First, you need to press tofu, and then immerse it in marinade for a period of time to allow for absorption. Marinated tofu may be pressed a second time to remove some of the marinade liquid. Pressing tofu a second time is a wonderful way to keep the flavor in and also creates a consistency that is more meat-like.
Frying Tofu: One of the most wonderful ways to enjoy tofu is to lightly pan fry it so that the outside becomes crusty and the inside remains soft. The best oils to use are vegetable oils, such as Soybean Oil, Safflower Oil, Canola Oil, Avocado Oil, and Peanut Oil. Use a pan that has some depth to it. Heat oil with medium to high heat before placing tofu into pan. Foods cooked in hot oil tend to absorb less oil, so be sure the oil is hot before adding tofu.
Baking and Broiling: Always use parchment paper when baking or broiling tofu instead of aluminum foil as the tofu will absorb the metallic taste.

I just love how diverse tofu is. It is tasteless and can take on the flavors of whatever you cook it with really. I love it in stir-fry’s and even just raw. If you buy the smooth tofu instead of the firm tofu you can make creamy deserts and smoothies. With tofu stocked in your kitchen you are almost limitless as far as what you can do with it. Here is a simple but amazing dish that I made with my tofu express machine and I gotta say….it was p-e-r-f-e-c-t! Matthew, this Thai inspired dish was made while thinking of you!

Thai Tofu Stir-Fry with Spicy Peanut Sauce

Ingredients:

(use vegan versions): 1 block extra firm tofu 1/2 cup chunky peanut butter 1/2 cup water 2 tablespoon soy or tamari sauce 1 tablespoon sherry (optional, but gives it a little kick) 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon brown sugar 2 tablespoon peanut, coconut or vegetable oil 2-4 cloves garlic, minced (to taste) 1 teaspoon - 3 tablespoons crushed red pepper (depending on how spicy you like!) 3 to 4 cups favorite stir fry veggies - I used broccoli, zuchinni, water chestnuts, baby corn, bok choy, red peppers and carrots! I topped it off (after the pic) 1 - 2 tablespoon spicy Thai chili sauce (again depending on how spicy you like!) Just thrown in what you have in the fridge, it will be fine!

Directions:

1. In a small bowl blend peanut butter, water, soy sauce, sherry, lemon juice brown sugar. (tip, I heat the peanut butter in the microwave prior to adding other ingredients to "liquefy" the peanut butter. It blends much easier that way)**IF you want, mix the peanut sauce the night before and marinade the tofu in 1/2 the peanut sauce over night. Cut the tofu into thin strips length wise and then in half width wise. This coats the tofu nicely for pan searing the next night. Reserve the other 1/2 the marinade to pour over the stir fry.

2. In a large skillet or wok heat the oil over high heat. Add the garlic and crushed red pepper, stir fry 30 seconds.

3. Add the marinated tofu being sure to include as much of the marinade as possible (a lot of it will be absorbed by the tofu). Shear the tofu on each side (about 5-10 minutes each side).

4. Add veggies and stir fry until they just begin to soften but are still a little crunchy (about 5 minutes)

5. Stir in the other 1/2 of reserve peanut sauce and chili sauce until sauce is smooth. (about 3-5 minutes)

6. Serve and enjoy! Yummy!

Serves: 4Preparation time: 30 minutes

Man…this was easy and oh so good. My favorite part was that I had a ton of left over’s! If you make this dish for friends and family, they will thank you!

If you want your own “tofu squeezer” from tofu express go to:

www.tofuexpress.com

How do you like your tofu?

I hope you all have a great day! I am on vacation for a week so don’t be surprised if the posts are scattered. I have some already scheduled though! I will have so much to tell you about when I get back. See you tomorrow for more reviews and news!

xoxoxox

-Heather

MIA but not for much longer.

I am so sorry to you all...I have been having terrible computer issues...I have no access at home and none at work...I am at the library at the moment just so I can tell you guys what is up!

I will be soon.

No pun intended ;)

No seriously though...Monday morning I will be back to posting no matter what. I will get back to you all as soon as I can. My mail box is overflowing and you know that I like to talk with ya! I am on vacation all next week and will have my family in town but no worries, I will have scheduled posts! I have some amazing reviews to share with you and I hope to have some AMAZING news when I get back. Cross your fingers for me...this could be BIG!

Love you,

Heather

Easy lunch box winner!

Drum roll please.......the winner of the easy lunchboxes is.

GoldenOrchard!!! I used a random number generator and yours came up! It is your lucky day! Send me you shipping info I I will let Easy Lunch boxes know.

Thanks to everyone that tried! Dont worry, I have give-a-ways all the time! So, keep reading.

Alright! I promise I will be back to posting tomorrow. I am off work and gonna enjoy this day. I hope that you all had a great holiday weekend!


xoxoxoxox
Heather

Chocolate and Mood Disorders.

Happy Saturday!!! It is not rainy (yet) and this makes me =)
I have a secret to tell you (no real secret if you could have actually seen me this morning...) I am stressed and I feel worn out. Yes, I know that is totally far from what you read just two days ago (I was well rested and feeling great) but it only takes a day in my world to have a pounding headache and enough stress to break a back! Sorry to be a downer first thing in the morning but this is what my blog is all about.

What am I going to do about my mood??? Well, I am going to FEED it! Now I need to make a thing or two clear. When I say feed your moods that doesn't mean "Oh, gosh I am stressed, tired, angry, sad, I need a tub of ice cream and some cookies to make it all go away." NO WAY!!! What I mean by feeding your mood is to either change or stay the way you feel based on what you actually nourish yourself with. Almost always when I get stressed out or tired I do feel like going for the comfort foods, however I know that it will temporarily make me feel better but then the guilt will set in and worse, the calories. Instead, I do a little researching and find out what I can consume that may boost my mood or steer me in the right direction. Now don't get me wrong, your attitude plays a huge role in this too. I figure though, if you are setting out to find a particular food or nutrient to boost your mood, then you are in the right mindset. With that being said, I say if your attitude is "I want to FEEL better and I want to FEED myself better" then you are on the right track. When I am feeling the way that I do this morning, I am on a mission. The great thing about food is there are SO MANY choices that you are not limited to just a few things that can help you out. If you are not in the MOOD for a particular food that would boost your mood, chances are you have another option.

This morning I knew exactly what I wanted/needed.

DARK Chocolate. I cant think of a morning (except when I was 10 maybe) when I wanted something sweet for breakfast. Usually, I opt for oats, quinoa, toast or maybe a piece of fruit. Never have I wanted a donut, pastry or chocolate. Well folks, there is a first for everything! This morning, I wanted dark chocolate. I thought to myself "Why is this?" Well I will tell you! When you are in the right place (nutrition wise) you will find that you don't crave foods as much as before. I can remember in my Cheetos's days and sugary lucky charm mornings that I would tear some one's arm off for a french fry or strawberry ice cream if I had the craving for it. Now, because I live a balanced life style I find that my cravings are very limited and more often than not it is for a simple piece of fruit. Sorry to say but this morning I had a craving, and it was for chocolate. I payed close attention to this FEELING and thought about why. It was obvious to me once I looked up a bit about chocolate and it's properties towards your mood. I found that chocolate helps with mood boosting and for the exact feelings that I am experiencing this morning. So get on with it Heather! Tell us already!!! Ok, Ok Ok!

How it boosts mood: Just call it the ultimate comfort food. Chocolate has been found in study after study to improve a negative mood. Why? Besides evoking fond memories of holidays and happy occasions, chocolate has the optimal combination of sweet flavor and creamy texture to cause a very effective release of endorphins, which are mood-elevating hormones. Cocoa and dark chocolate contain significant amounts of antioxidant flavanols, which have been shown to improve blood flow in the brain.
Isn’t it great that we can have something that is not only good for us, but fun to use? Yes sir (or ma'am), dark gold, pure happiness! You’ve probably heard the buzz about dark chocolate, and how it’s good for your blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, prevents cancer and can fix nearly anything that is wrong with you, except that expanding waistline. (And for the record — white chocolate is not really chocolate at all. It’s milk solids and fat. No cocoa. Nada.)

The basic ingredients of dark chocolate include cacao beans, sugar, soy lecithin (an emulsifier to preserve texture), and flavorings. This yummy treat, which contains fewer milk solids than its more popular cousin, milk chocolate, often is rated by the percentage of cocoa solids in the bar. The cocoa content of commercial dark chocolate bars can range from 30 percent to above 80 percent.

Some of dark chocolate’s benefits come from resveratrol, an antioxidant (immune system booster) found in red wine, among other products. Its mental health benefits include the ability to boost brain levels of endorphins (natural opiates) as well as serotonin (a mood-altering chemical on which many antidepressants act). Because it can increase serotonin levels in the brain, dark chocolate also may increase serotonin production in the gut, and thus help your immune system.
But before you decide to switch to an all-dark-chocolate diet and throw away the rabbit food, keep this in mind: The recommended dose is one ounce per day. It doesn’t sound like much, but it may help reduce blood pressure and increase arterial blood flow, reduce the chance of blood clots and lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.

Here’s another dietary caution: Downing a glass of milk along with your ounce of dark chocolate negates all the good stuff. Research has shown that milk interferes with the absorption of the antioxidants. So, in that case, all you get are the calories. Bummer.

Many chocolates can be high in calories, sugar, and saturated fat. To maximize the health benefits of chocolate, avoid eating processed chocolate products that have refined sugar and milk fat.
Instead, choose the purest dark chocolate you can find – the more raw and unprocessed, the higher the flavonoid content. The best dark chocolate to eat has at least 60% cocoa solids.

If that is not enough to convince you not to go wild in the candy aisle, try this: Eating too much chocolate each day can cause complications including migraines, weight gain, digestive tract problems (such as diarrhea), kidney stones and heartburn. Dark chocolate seems to have less of an impact on heartburn than milk chocolate and it may also be less of a problem in gallbladder disease, but no promises there. And all chocolate contains caffeine, which is a problem for some as well. As always, if you have any dietary restrictions, talk with your primary care physician before making any big changes.

Last night, when I got home I went to the mail box and found a UPS package waiting for me. What was inside, made me SMILE.

I was delighted to see that I had not one, not two, but THREE bars of NibMor dark chocolate!!! It also had a lovely card in it telling me that the folks there hope I enjoy it and are looking forward to my review. Well, first I would like to state, never have I gotten a hand written gorgeous card from a company saying so. What amazing customer service! I mean it, it made my evening after a VERY stressful day. It made me feel like I had gotten a gift and it was personal. Let me tell you a bit about the company first, then we will get into the good stuff!

At NibMor they believe that the food we eat should be as simple as possible. That means using ingredients made by Mother Nature, not someone in a lab coat.

What happens their kitchen? They combine the best of it all. Their ingredients are All Natural and Organic, plus they work in small batches to meticulously create artisan perfection.

This bar to me looked fantastic! I loved the packaging. When I saw that it was RAW, VEGAN and ORGANIC, I was sold! I opened the package and took a bite (last night). My first thought was "OH MY!!! This is love at first bite!" The chocolate was smooth, dark and semi sweet. Perfection in a package in my mind. Here is the bar it's self and the nutritonal info:

I give this bar a 10, no kidding!

I erg you to PLEASE go to their site to see what they have to offer in the chocolate department....You wont be sorry you did!

http://www.nibmor.com

I came up with the following ten reasons why you need to consume more chocolate.
1. Reduces high blood pressure – flavonoids in cocoa (procyanids) help balance blood pressure and reduce blood clotting. Researchers from Germany’s University Hospital of Cologne found that cocoa consumption lowered blood pressure by an average of 4.7/2.8 mm Hg. The New York Times reported that dark chocolate is almost as effective at lowering blood pressure as common antihypertensive drugs.

2. Improves blood flow to brain – a University of Nottingham professor found that drinking cocoa drinks rich in flavanols improves blood flow to key areas of the brain for two to three hours. Flavanols in the cocoa drink are a key ingredient of dark chocolate. Professor Macdonald’s study also suggested that cocoa flavanols in chocolate may enhance brain function to help fight sleep deprivation, fatigue, and the effects of ageing.

3. Boosts mood – MSNBC reported that caffeine and other chemicals in dark chocolate can improve your mood and ease premenstrual symptoms. Mark’s Daily Apple wrote that the chemical phenylethylamine in chocolate has been found to trigger feelings similar to “falling in love.”

4. Prevents cell damage and 5. Improves blood sugar levels – Lisa C. Cohn, R.D., President of the Park Avenue Nutrition Spa in NYC, wrote that flavonoids in pure dark chocolate are responsible for these added benefits. Cohn said, “if you’re going to indulge on Feb. 14 or any other day, go for the purest dark chocolate you can find. That’s the kind loaded with flavonoids…”

6. Reduces risk of heart attack – a researcher from the John Hopkins University School of Medicine said that eating a few squares of dark chocolate every day may reduce your risk of dying from a heart attack by almost 50%. The study found that blood platelets clotted slower in people who eat chocolate.

7. Helps ease chronic fatigue syndrome – a study found that adults with chronic fatigue syndrome who eat 1.5 ounces of 85% cocoa dark chocolate were less fatigued after they eat chocolate.

8. Raises HDL cholesterol and lowers LDL cholesterol – a Penn State study found that diets high in cocoa powder and dark chocolate (with high flavonoid content) are related to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels when compared with diets low in flavonoids such as tea, wine, coffee, and onions.

9. Improves processing of blood sugar – an Italian study found that dark chocolate consumption increased the body’s metabolism of blood sugar and may reduce the risk of diabetes.

10. Eases a persistent cough – a UK study found that theobromine, a component in cocoa, may be more effective as a cough medicine than standard drug treatments. The research showed that “theobromine acts on the sensory nerve endings of the vagus nerve, which runs through the airways in the lungs to the brain.”

Ok, so I have completely went off on a chocolate tangent this morning. Maybe I was craving this dark goodness because it was the last thing that I ate last night and it sent me into a chocolaty dream land. Or maybe my stress tired body needed another small dose of it to start my day in the right direction. What ever it may be...I am listening and going to eat intuitively. Now, instead of going for that bar and eating half of it for breakfast I am doing what my body wants but in moderation. I am having this baby for my starter.

Chocolate Covered Pretzel Oat Bran!

I made my oat bran as usual

-1/3 cup of Bob Mills Breakfast Oat Bran

-1/2 cup of Unsweetened Almond Milk

-2 egg whites (makes it so fluffy)

-1 table spoon of Salba

-ONE ONCE of NibMor dark chocolate

Mix all together after it is hot and then crushed up two Newman's Own pretzels.

NOM!

It was just what I needed this morning to give me more energy, get my chocolate fix and more importantly BOOST my mood! It did the trick and I am thankful to Jennifer for sending me the package my way. NibMor was so thoughtful with the card and very generous to give me more than one bar. Because you did so, I am sharing it and screaming from the roof tops about this chocolate. It is 100% awesome.

So, next time you are feeling not so great (and maybe that time of the month, shhhhh) go for a PIECE (not the whole bar lady) of wonderful dark chocolate. Incorporate it into a meal and make it extra special!

I will be talking more about chocolate in up coming posts so keep your eyes out. I have another company that is sending some my way and we will see what they have to offer as well. All in all, chocolate is not just chocolate. If you are going to go for the "gold" go for it. Get a fantastic bar and SLOWLY enjoy it!

I know that I am!

See you soon, with more reviews and moods!

-Heather

It's here, it's really here!

Good morning and HAPPY Friday! I have some things that I want to address this morning so either read on or just skip to the eats! First though I want to just say that I had a fabulous time at the movie last night and it was worth every second. K and I got great seats and even some "snacks" to go with the movie. All in all, a great twist to a normally boring Thursday evening. I like that I get off at 12:00 today. I plan on swimming (if it doesnt rain) and laying in the sun for a bit. I want to start this looooong weekend off right!


I am so glad that this week is coming to a end (for more reasons than just one), it has been a tough one. The house sitting is almost over and I will be free to do what I want for a few days. Just a little note to all my readers, I am taking off from the blog world and work Monday and Tuesday so I will not be posting the winner of the Easy Lunch Boxes until Wed morning! Sorry, but a girl needs her rest for a couple of days. This weekend is MUCH deserved. I have a whole weekend with no plans....should I go somewhere? Any suggestions? I never have 4 days off in a row, I wont know what to do with myself. Movin on.


I had something that REALLY upset me the other day. I talked to one of my favorite (ok seriously MY FAVORITE) companies about getting some other products to review and was told that "There is a lot of competition out there and I reviewed a product by one of their top competitors." I didn't know what to say at first but then I replied "I am so sorry, I didn't know." The president of this company is one of the nicest most pleasant people I think that I have ever spoken with. "He said I know but it was still posted." (Sorry, but how am I suppose to know who your top competitors are and why does it matter if YOU are the one getting raving reviews from me?) I was immediately upset that I had upset this company. I asked which company it was and he of course didn't name names. I knew better than to ask for more product so I just apologized and told him that I understood. He was in no way mean to me but I could tell that he wasn't happy about this situation. This is the first time that this has ever happened to me! If you are a company that is going to send products to me I want you to know that my blog is about three things. 1: training tips to keep you in shape and motivated. 2: Recipes to help keep you slim and trim. 3: New or existing health food products that are on the market. I try them and give you my honest opinion. I do not set out to try two of the same type of products and put two companies against each other. When I get something, I try it and then do my best to get a review up as soon as possible. I have a list of things that I am in the process of reviewing and it is really a first come first post situation. Once I post, I mark it off the list and move on to the next one. Heck, I think I remember doing a post back to back about Greek yogurt and both companies are huge. I have companies that contact me and that I contact. Sometimes I come home and boxes are just there. I don't even remember hearing from them. I just try the foods and or products, give my opinion, include facts and if I am hooked don it will post a recipe of some sort using it.




The thing that upsets me most is that the company said "We treat people who are good to us, good." "This is a competitive market out there and you reviewed one of our top competitors." I knew what that meant...no more of my favorite products...I have no problem buying from them and in fact the order will be placed later this week for myself. The thing that gets to me is that this is the ONLY company that I have felt so strongly about that I have hosted tastings and practically harassed both health food stores in my area to carry their products. I have gone above and beyond just a review and "giving them two thumbs up." I have tweeted, I have face booked, I have yelped and I have told just about anyone that I have talked to about nutrition about their site and products. I just want all of you to know, no malice was intended and I am going to review products the same way that I always have. I guess next time I will try to have a post between each other if they are the same type of products (like if I am reviewing jams, I will make sure that I don't post two reviews with two different companies back to back...) I am just a little confused because this company has a TON of amazing products. It is not like they just carry one type of product and one only. Anyway, my apologies. It doesn't change the way that I feel about the company, the president or the products. I still love them and I will continue to boast about them. You gotta know...



Anyway, just meditated about it and felt like I needed to address it. Moving on!



Breakfast this week has been all over the place! I went simple this morning. x2 I was hungrier than I thought this morning so I had to make it a double...Does that ever happen to you? Where you don't think that you are all that hungry and then you start eating and realize that you were actually starving? Well this morning...that was me. I ate one slice with 2 egg whites and and then I went back to the kitchen after 30 minutes of waiting to make sure it wasn't my brain but my bod that really wanted it. It did so I went back for more.


After a couple of hours and right before my workout this was consumed rather fast... Almond butter with my favorite kind of apple...pink lady. I LOVE to sprinkle cinnamon on my pink ladies but I am all out. Did you guys know that I eat cinnamon like it is ranch dressing to most southerners? I know that sounds funny but there are a few people that I know around here that drench just about everything they eat in ranch dressing....I use cinnamon. I dont know why but I always put it on my apples, my smoothies, my yogurt, I mix it in my pb, my salads and my curries. Heck, that is just about all that I eat! If I eat something 9 times out of 10 there will either be cinnamon or siracha in the mix. I save you guys though from seeing the not so pleasing squirt of siracha all over my food, who wants to see that? Anyone else addicted to the stuff?




Lunch was not so sweet. I wanted crunch and I wanted it now. Yes, I am still eating raw veggies and homemade hummus for lunch. I almost wanted to lie and tell you that I ate some fantastic sandwich or wrap...Nope. I am a creature of habit. If it ain't broke, I'm not fixin it. After a good workout the thought of hot food makes me not want to eat at all. If you add egg whites to anything (I did the hummus) it become a protein bomb, in a good way of course.



Raw please. Thanks.




After a few more hours I went back for more naturally more almond butter and some carrots. I love this combo! I have to say, it is a way for me to get the sweet potato PB combo craving outta the way. I love that one as well. I didn't photograph it, it happens.




After I got home, let the pup out and changed for workout number two I looked in the freezer to see if I could find something to go with my planned salad (yes...salads for dinner...the norm.) I found these babies. I forgot all about them. I got a package in the mail from Quorn (they send me a box or two of new things for me to try and I am always happy when I open the box). I LOVE quorn products. They freakishly fill you up. No kidding. One patty=full for hours. I was glad that they sent me the "naked" ones...They are only 80 cals and have 11 grams of protein. I took the patty out of the box put it in the oven for 20 minutes at 350 and added it to this beauty. I married strawberries and goat cheese with balsamic vinegar and sliced almonds...They have a bright future this summer together I feel. After I sliced the quorn patty on top, I was set! It was so good.



Bedtime snack that I shouldn't be eating but could give a crap... Ok so frozen watermelon IS my favorite night time snack. I take a huge slice and then I blend it up with cinnamon and some nutmeg and then I sit it in the freezer for a hour, tonight I thought "why not add in some dark chocolate so that it looks like seeds!" I am a retard...or a genius, not sure.



Anyway, what a good day of eats eh? Well, I wish that I could say that it was above normal but I am really trying to cut back a bit. I gotta say...I kinda went a little over board on those pure raw food bars and paying for it now. For the next month it is going to be a strict diet for me. After all, shake it, don't break it, it took your mother 9 months to make it! HA!



I am going to enjoy every second of this weekend and you better be ready for a well rested Heather on Wed. I will be done house sitting after tomorrow and back in my own house and bed (god....cant wait!). I will have the winner of the Easy Lunch box winner then. Hope to hear from you!


-Heather

OMG, what a suprise!

As you may already know....I have had some bad luck recently. I have broken a few blenders and a couple laptops...yeah, I don't know what my deal is. I had a vacation planned for the end of the month but ended up taking on a house sitting job to earn some extra cash and decided that I would take the second week of June of to have a girls vacation with my best friend in the whole world! Well, because of the way my luck has been going it came to no surprise when it had to be canceled. :(

My Bf has an amazing job in the film industry and a position was offered on the set of a movie that she just couldn't refuse. I don't blame her! I was a little relieved because of breaking my brand new laptop and pretty much loosing out on 750.00. I tried to take vacation at another time but because I already moved my dates around once I wasn't able to do it twice. So, I have a whole 9 days off the second week of June with absolutely nothing to do...sigh. I just may have to do something alone (which I always end up doing). I like to take trips alone and traveling by yourself can be a lot of fun. I do plan on some pamper time that is for sure and I want to visit Karen while on vacation too. We will see. Something else that I was looking forward to for the last three months was this. The new Sex in the City Movie!!! I have had it on my calendar for the last three months. Opening day is TONIGHT and I have been dreaming of watching the movie while sipping on something sparkling (yes, there are times when you have got to sneak in a little bottle of processco, don't hate) and the darkest most rich chocolate that I could find. This was the plan anyway...The whole plan was for Karen and I to see the movie on opening night, then she was going to go to Florida with her family for a few days and then drive back and the two of us were going to go on our beach trip. Unfortunately because of what I already told you, the above happened.

Yesterday however...I got this text message. "Wanna go to SATC matinee tomorrow? Can u do it? Cause I aint leavin til Friday."

I was overwhelmed with joy!!! YAY!!!! But then it set in...Work.

I thought "there is no way that they are going to let me leave early on Thursday..." I text messaged K back and asked what time the movie was.

"4:30 is the latest matinee." When I got the text I thought "Hey, I may be able to swing this....maybe I can get off at 4:00 and go straight there..." I was sitting there thinking and then I got this text..."Or we could pay 2 dollars more and go at 6:20."

2 dollars more?!? Who cares about two bucks! (Only, Karen would think about me being able to save two dollars...is she tryin to call me cheap!?!). Anyway, I text messaged her back and said "6:20 it is!" Her reply...."Tickets are bought and on me...your in charge of refreshments."

Now here's the problem! I get off at 5:00 I have got to walk the dog, water the garden and take a shower. PLUS I have to stop by the package store now to get a couple small bottles of wine...Can I do this all in under a hour and meet K at 6:00? Well, we shall see. I have a doctors appointment to top it all off as well. I am breathing and I can tell you one thing....Aint nothin going to stop me from getting to this movie with my best friend, nothin! Karen leaves for Flordia tomorrow and I will not be able to see her for a while so I am going to soak up every minute I can with that girl...

Do you guys remember K's birthday? Remember what she got?

This photo cracks me up! She is soooooo cute and when she opened this gift, freaked out! Of course we had to play! Because I had only just watched SATC for the first time last summer I could barely answer any questions...K on the other hand...knows it all! You see, when Sex and the City came out I wasn't into the show at all. In fact I hated it. I know why too...I was married for god's sake! I didn't want to watch a show about women in their late 20's early 30's single and livin it up...I just couldn't relate to it at all. So, I skipped the show all together and whenever I would hear girls talking and laughing about the show I just shrugged my shoulders and moved on.

Well, two years later, that all changed...I found myself living with K and another roomie (both single) and starting completely over. I had no idea where to start really. The thought of being thrown back into the dating world honestly scared the crap out of me, so much had gone on in my life that I was barely able to recognize my life. Well, if it weren't for my best friend, who the hell knows what would have happened to me...(No, I am not going to tell the story of how I got to where I was this time last year, you can read this post.) Instead, Karen said to me one day..."You gotta watch Sex in the City girrrrrrl, that's what you need!" I was living with two boy crazy fun ladies and lets me honest...boy crazy and my name has never been in the same sentence. I was trying my best to warm up to the idea of getting out there again and being more social. It was just taking some time. One night, Karen came home with a bottle of wine and we rented the first season of Sex and the City. Needless to say, it was all down hill from there!

No kidding, we watched all six seasons in a matter of 3 months and moved on to the movie. It was the best thing that ever happened to me! Seriously. Time after time it hit the spot and made me chuckle like no body's business. I cant believe how right on the show really is. I would watch this show and think to myself "Thank god for K and thank god for this show." Looking back at the year that I spent with my roomies one thing stands out....Sex and the City. That and tons of wine, cheese, chocolate and crackers we ate while watching it! I have no idea how I was so small last year. I spent most of my time in bed with Karen snacking and watching the show.

Well, I almost thought that I wouldn't be able to see the movie on opening night and I certainly wouldn't dare go to see it without my girl. Karen totally came through and when I got that text last night it made me SMILE! Needless to say...I am going to get out of work today and run like no body's business. It is all going to happen and by 8:30 I will have completed the SATC experience. I am not very girly. I cant remember the last time I took a bubble bath, had a pedicure or bought perfume. I can say this though....Girly or not, you cant take Sex and the City away from me. It lies in my heart and I don't care how cheesy it sounds. I love it!

Sorry to all the guys that read (yeah, like the three that do) this post is all about my SATC day and the events that take place. I just had to. I know that you will be hearing about the movie on the radio, seeing girls dressed up giggling around town and watching commercials for a while promoting it, this post will just go right along with the madness.

So this evening after a crazy day at work, doctors appointment, walking dog, watering garden, showering and mixing up a "special treat" for the movie I will be sitting in a cool theatre actually watching a movie (last time I went to the movies by the way was alone 2 years ago...). I am beyond excited!

I could have Girls Night over and over. Whether that be: Hangin at my new place... Holidays like Valentines...Being total goof balls. Or dinners at home or Casa Mia . Karen is my go to girl!

So now you know what I am thinking about today, all day....What Karen doesnt know is that I have some things up my sleeve as well. She doesnt get to suprise me and not get one herself. She is going to be happy when she see's me....for sure!

See you tomorrow for my last post until Wed, I will of course give you the low down on the movie (not spoiling anything of course)! I am taking some time off to do absolutely....what I want!

-Heather