Dollar a Month Shave Club

I just signed JD up for this...basically you pick a razor ranging from $1-$9 and pay $2 shipping and handling and once a month you receive four blades in the mail once a month. I read over the terms and agreements; they have a simple cancelation policy and will refund if you are not happy with your product. I will let everyone know how long they take to arrive and what he thinks!

Use the link below to begin your savings on shaving...
http://shaved.by/dGxY

Your environment... Ultimate Weight Solution

Next Dr. Phil discusses your environment. This is crucial....all individuals need to de-clutter their kitchens and get back to the basics of nutrition. Dr. Phil discusses how to rid your home and other environments of temptations. This next grocery trip try to focus on fresh foods and leave the processed ones behind. It is important to keep your environment free of temptation.

Food/Exercise Log 7.11.2013

Meal 1: Chocolate Berry Protein Shake
Ingredients: 1 scoop chocolate protein powder, 1 cup milk, a few strawberries, and 10 ice cubes blended.

Meal 2: Crispix
Ingredients: 2 cups Crispix

Meal 3: Salad
Ingredients: lettuce, .5 chicken breast, .5 avocado, a few slices of cucumber, and balsamic vinaigrette.

Meal 4: Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich, one serving size of Doritos, and a Nutter Butter Bar.
Note: This meal was a downfall for me. I need to recognize that when I leave work and get home I always eat badly for this time. I need to find a different activity-I am going to try to take a 30 minute nap to pass this time of boredom and exhaustion.

Meal 5: Salmon, lettuce, .5 avocado, a couple slices of mango, a few slices of apple, a few pieces of watermelon. 

Exercise: 30 minutes of walking and swam 12 laps in my pool. The walk is nice because it gives my husband and I time to decompress from our day and get the dogs out and walking.  

Key 2 Ultimate Weight Solution

Key 2 discusses emotional eating. It begins with a quiz which identifies the different occasions in which an individual may emotionally eat. My score was 15 which indicate I struggle with emotional eating occasionally and there is room for improvement.

The next part provides a stress audit: My number is 110, due to recently being married and changing jobs (to a stay at home mom). Dr. Phil discusses how stressors can affect our eating habits. The right attitude and right behavior can get us the right result.

Individuals must be able to recognize the root of their emotional eating and formulate a plan to address these emotions when they arise. Ugly emotions will begin to take root in all areas of one's life. A plan to address the emotions should include: What action can you take to address the emotion? How will you feel when you have addressed the emotion? Is this how you want to feel?

How to cope without eating? Working out, relaxation exercises, listening to music, deep breathing, yoga, or meditation. Although these may not be your cup of tea; give them a try!

Ultimate Weight Solution - Key 1

I finished listening to key one last night and wanted to give everyone my take away. This key is about internal self talk and how our self talk affects our relationship with food. First you are asked to identify your weight locus of control. Dr. Phil goes through 15 questions to assist you in identifying whether your are internal, external, or chance.

My attribution to weight to internal and external. 

Internal Example: I am not loosing weight because I am not working out hard enough.

External Example: I cannot loose weight because there is always snacks in my house for my kids. 

Chance Example: I cannot loose weight because my parents are fat, so I am just going to be fat. 

In the next section Dr. Phil asks you to write down a statement for each category

Appearance, Body Shape, Exercise Level, Self Control, and Health.

This are my statements:
Appearance: I am disgusting
Body Shape: My shape has changed because of giving birth.
Exercise Level: It does not matter how much I exercise I am not loosing weight.
Self Control: I loose it once a day.
Health: I want to be healthy.

Dr. Phil then asks you to look at the most negative statement and ask yourself is this statement true. I chose my appearance statement...When logically thinking about this statement I know it is false. Dr. Phil then asks you to rethink the statement and replace it with a positive statement...I am unique. If the statement you choose is true, he asks you to think of ways to make a change in you life to then make the statement false eventually.

Take Away: This key is very powerful since the majority of us have negative thinking about our appearance, weight and food.

Resources: McGraw, Phil. The Ultimate Weight Solution: The 7 Keys to Weight Loss Freedom. 

Detox Water-Day 3

The headaches have become to much for me to handle, so I will cease the cucumber-lemon water. I did find a recipe for a watermelon-mint flavored water, which I made last night.

The Ultimate Weight Solution-Day 1

After giving birth and prior to pregnancy I have struggled with my weight. I have tried many diets and exercise plans-with no long term success. After giving birth, I have been researching a way to change my life and my habits for good-no more yoyo dieting. I found the Ultimate Weight Solution by Dr. Phil. I know not everyone is fond of Dr Phil, but I am going to try it because it offers techniques to change your relationship with food, weight, exercise and emotions. I will be blogging my experience and tracking my progress.

Today, I went to the Peoria Library and checked out the book on CD. I have made it through Part 1. The important features of Part 1 include guidance on goal setting. I have set a goal by following his distinct guideline of goal setting.

My goal is: I want to weigh 135lbs. I will do this by walking for 30 minutes daily after dinner, use the keys in this book, drink eight glasses of water daily, not binge eat to deal with my emotions or boredom. I will lose 76.5lbs in 40 weeks, by loosing approxiamately 2lbs weekly in 10 months. When I reach this goal I want to feel energetic, attractive, healthy and no desire to binge eat.

* Another important part of this chapter is the waist to hip ratio. First you measure your waist(at belly button)-then hips(at largest part). Next divide waist by hip at healthy ratio for women should be .8 and smaller and for men .9 and lower.

I would like to set up a system of support for anyone doing this life change or thinking about doing this change. I will weigh-in on Wednesdays and document any downfalls or successes.

7.10.2013- 211.5lbs: waist to hip ratio .83

Resources: http://www.drphil.com/shows/show/1136 this website offers materials and shows.

Later tonight I will post a beginning picture and body measurements.

 

JOIN ME!!

A smile...

http://heartifb.com/2011/08/31/professional-blogger-spotlight-glitter-guide/

 

Fruit Pizza by Pillsbury

I wanted to share with everyone my go to desert, which I made last night for Papa's birthday. This recipe is from Pillsbury-its easy and delicious.

Ingredients:
1 roll(16.5oz) Pillsbury Create'n Bake refrigerated sugar cookies
1 package(8oz) cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla'
1 cup fresh or canned peach slices, drained, cut into thinner slices
1 cup halved or quarted fresh strawberries
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1/2 cup apple jelly

Step 1: Heat oven to 350F. Grease 12 inch pizza pan or spray with cooking spray. In pan, break up cookie dough; press dough evenly in bottom of pan to form crust.
Step 2: Bake 16-20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.
Step 3: In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with electric mixer on medium speed until fluggy. Spread mixture over colled crust. Arrange fruit over cream cheese.
Step 4: Stir jelly until smooth; spoon or brush over fruit. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 1 hour. Cut into wedges or squares. Cover and refrigerate any remaining pizza.

Note: I always double my ingredients...I use any fruits I have in the fridge (not neccessarily the ones suggested in the recipe)... I use a 13x9 pan...Unless I am making the pizza the night before; I skip the apple jelly (it is just to keep the fruit from browning).

Resources: http://www.pillsbury.com/recipes/fanciful-fruit-pizza/93d325e7-4182-4f9a-8453-956e48a45735 this website includes the full recipe from Pillsbury and the nutritional information.

Day 2 of Detox Water

So, yesterday I slowed down on drinking the detox water and substituted some with plain water, due to a really bad headache. I have researched and do not understand what is causing such bad headaches. I am back to drinking it today; if I get a headache I will be giving up on the cucumber-lemon water. Check back in tonight to see how Day 3 goes...

Kid to Kid

Kid to Kid is a wonderful second hand shop for children's clothing, toys, and baby items. If you are interested in finding some great deals on gently used items this is the place to go in the Phoenix area. They also purchase items from their customers. Last weekend we sold our items for the first time and had a wonderful experience. I went in filled out a form and ten minutes later they had an offer for me; they offer store credit or cash (store credit is more, of course). Their website also has some great tips on getting the most out of your items. Some of the tips include...bring your items in a basket or bin (no trash bags), have them folded in half, place outfit pieces together. As for toys...clean them prior to bringing in and have all the prices together, also leave batteries in. The staff here is always friendly and very helpful. Below is the location we use. http://kidtokid.com/peoria/

8360 W Thunderbird Rd #101 Peoria, AZ 85381
623.776.3441

There are many other locations in Arizona and other states...check out their website for a store locator. http://kidtokid.com/

Luci's Healthy Marketplace

1590 E Bethany Home Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85014 602.773.1339

This weekend we ventured out and decided to test Luci's Healthy Marketplace. As we pulled up, I was quite impressed and had high expectations of Luci's. the atmosphere was trendy to say the least. the store is loaded with healthy groceries and hard to find products; it is definitely a high end store. We went on Sunday, so we were directed to order our meals at the coffee bar.

I ordered the TURKEY LURKEY-Artisan light bread, turkey, Havarti cheese, applewood smoked bacon, avocado, spinach, tomato, pesto sauce and mayo; as a side I chose the Asiago Penne Salad. I thought the sandwhich was good, but nothing I could not make at home, but the ingredients were very fresh and delicious. The Penne Salad was amazing. it was filled with sundried tomatoes, asparagus, and many other yummy ingredients. I would highly recommend the Penne Salad.

My husband (J.D.) ordered LUCI'S FAMOUS ALL NATURAL BURGER-half-pound Niman Ranch all natural, grass-fed Angus sirloin patty (cooked the way you like it) with sauteed mushrooms, red onion, apple wood smoked bacon and a choice of cheddar, Swiss, or provolone cheese on a delicious brioche roll; served with tater tots. O.K. I am not going to lie; I was super excited to try this burger. He ordered it medium because grass-fed beef should be tasted, not burned. Mind you the description clearly states "cooked the way you like it;" when we received the burger it was well done and tasted horrible. my husband has made better burgers with Walmart beef at home. I was highly disappointed. Also, the tater tots tasted like soggy fries you get at the drive through. The tater tots were half sweet potatoes and half regular-which was not explained to use when we ordered or mentioned on the menu. he also ordered an ice tea which was $5 for a 32oz (seems a little outrageous to me...), but he liked it.

4711 N 7th St Phoenix, AZ 85014 602.451.4335

Before I describe the desert, I will start off by saying it is not made in house; the desert is from Urban Cookie http://www.urbancookies.com/ . I was unimpressed with the desert as well; we ordered a slice of cheesecake and a slice of their lemon-coconut cake. The cheesecake was delicious in the center, but the outer edges were overcooked. The lemon-coconut cake was very dry and disappointing. I do think these items had been sitting in the case too long; because I have been to Urban Cookie and enjoyed their deserts...

Overall we would not go back to Luci's; except to try their coffee. Their staff was very friendly though.

Rating: 1 out of 5

Herrera Esteli

This sitting in my ashtray is the Herrera Esteli from Drew Estate. I purchased a couple at a store earlier this year. I chose the robusto, clocking in at 5 and 1/2 inches by 52 ring guage. The wrapper had a very nice sheen and was smooth and beautiful, with no gaps in the seams or cracks in the wrapper. I have to say upfront that I have smoked Drew Estate cigars before, but I was cautious that hype can warp perspective when it comes to cigars. It seems as though, Right from the begining I had a very good feeling about this cigar, Because I love straight up traditional cigars. When I grabbed them that was the impression  I got from its presentation.
And with that, out of the way, Here's the beef;

The first third started out with nice thick flavors med to full bodied and had some pepper and smooth oily flavors. Mild in strength, Very rich and smooth. Smoke output was good and the first third really set the table well for the rest of the cigar.  As I moved into the second third, the cigar trasitions with creamy smooth flavors that become the core of the flavor profile. As I was finishing out the second third, I felt the strength of the cigar come up from up from medium to medium plus. The second third finshes with thick, chewy smoke, and I did notice throughout the second third, like a lot of Liga Privada cigars the footsmoke was belting out ribbons of thick smoke. The last part of the cigar was like a megaphone for the second third profile, Same flavors but up in intensity. The last third the strength crept passing the body about half way through it, and if you smoke it slowly and take your time, you may be able to keep your head above water. However these are strong through the final third.

Things I took away;

- I love the presentation of this cigar. I think simplicity can be rewarded and especially in this day and age.

- I had smoked the other cigar back around the time I bought these, and beware, fresh out of the box, They will bite you if you don't take it easy.

- This is the kind of cigar that I would have never expected Drew Estate to put out and when I heard about it I was very surprised and very curious.

- This is a very good cigar. I would say cubanesqe, and very satisfying

- I wouldn't hesitate to buy a box of these, I think age will be very good to these cigars.

As for a score, I give this cigar 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Note: Don's Cigars.20 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85012.602- 248-0160

Day 1 of Detox Drink

I did notice an increase in my water intake which is highly beneficial, especially because I am breastfeeding. About half way through the day, I noticed a moderate headache which is not usual for me. I could not find any resources which indicated any negative side effects associated with drinking the detox drink-so onto day two.

Lemon Cucumber Detox Water

As I was searching Pinterest, I noticed multiple pins for detox water. So, I decided to give one a try...

This recipe called for:
2 quarts water
1/2 a cucumber
3 lemons. 
Once all the ingredients are combined in a pitcher or any container, then place in fridge for at least eight hours. I began drinking the water last night and will continue for five days-one pitcher daily. I was interested to know what the benefits are of drinking this water-besides the taste. (I am an act now ask questions later type of gal)

What I found: 
Cucumbers: help prevent water retention, due to anti-inflammatory qualities, contains nutrients such as vitamin A, iron, calcium, vitamin K and potassium and can be highly beneficial for your skin. More information about the benefits of cucumber in water can be found at: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/06/17/cucumber-water_n_3415738.html
Lemon: great source of vitamin C, assist in balancing pH levels, aids in weight loss, and assist in digestion. More information can be found at: http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-8354/5-amazing-benefits-of-drinking-lemon-water.html
Water: water is just plain good for you; the flavor helps me drink more of it and offers a different option. 

I will keep you posted on any changes throughout the week. Let me know any experiences you have had with detox drinks, flavored water or recommendations. 

Insurance 2014

I would assume I am just as confused as most individuals about the insurance changes which are quickly approaching. Last week, my husbands work sent home a helpful question and answer sheet, but I am still confused. I found a very helpful website which is www.healthcare.gov. It is important for individuals and family to be aware of the upcoming changes-how they will benefit or hurt your current coverage. There may also be better option available to you through this website, as well. Whether we agree with the changes or not they are coming and required by 2014, so be prepared. Check it out and let me know what you think.

F.Y.I.

 

Just to let everyone know we will be adding post about cigars. My husband is a regular cigar connoisseur; so he will be writing post about different cigars and places to buy cigars in Arizona.

Pizza Heaven Bistro

Last weekend with our Groupon we tried Pizza Heaven Bistro. It is located at 5150 N 7th St Phoenix, AZ 85014. Let me begin with our service it was amazing; we ate in, but they also do pickup and delivery.

We started out with an appetizer- Heaven's Mediterranean Medley artichoke hearts, mushrooms, roasted peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives in a garlic sauce topped with feta cheese; served with garlic bread. This was a fantastic beginning.

Next we tried - Insalata Caprese a Classic Italian with fresh buffalo mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, fresh garlic, and basil, with balsamic vinaigrette. I am a huge fan of Caprese salads and this one was amazing; I especially enjoyed the bread which was included.

We then tried their pizza, of course. We had the Pizza Bianca which is topped with extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, fresh basil, Italian herbs, parmesan, romano, mozzarella & ricotta by request for additional charge. No “red” sauce. This pizza was very good, definitely tasty enough to eat the crust, as well. They also serve traditional pizza with red sauce.

 

And we ended dinner with an amazing slice of cheesecake, which is made in house. This cheesecake was light and fluffy, which is just the way I like it.

Rating: 5 out of 5
We would go to Pizza Heaven Bistro again!

Groupon

 

Last weekend, my husband, Elizabeth and I decided to try groupon for the first time. It was very easy; all you have to do is sign up for their program and then you are able purchase any of the deals. We found a great deal for Pizza Heaven Bistro. The groupon was $20 for $40 at Pizza Heaven Bistro. We were able to use the groupon through our iPhone immediately, which made it very easy.

The Parlor

The entry - a great patio even in the middle of June!

Recently, we tried The Parlor located at 1916 E. Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85016. My sister celebrated her 14th Birthday here and so we joined. The restaurant is difficult to locate, due to the sign being covered by a tree, but definitely worth the hunt. The environment is very cozy and calming. We tried multiple items from the menu; first we started with the Caponata Bruschetta, which is sweet and sour eggplant, currants, roasted red peppers, pine nuts, and herbed ricotta. This appetizer was delicious, but only included three slices. For the next course we ordered, the Mozzarella Corrozza, which is Crispy House Made Mozzarella, Chicory, Radicchio, Mixed Greens, Prosciutto and Parmigiano Vinaigrette (as pictured). 

Mozzarella Corrozza

This salad was amazing, especially the presentation. I would order this as a main entree. For the main course, we tried their pizza, since that is what they are known for. We had the  Calabrian, a pizza topped with alabrese, Salumi, Burrata, and Watercress. The quality of the pizza was high, but the topping combination was not my favorite. We also tried their homemade s'mores desert; this was the only part of the meal which failed to meet my expectations. I make a s'mores cake which is divine- the recipe is not mine, but can be found at  http://witandwhistle.com/2012/05/14/smore-bars/. Our service was wonderful, although the wait time was a bit long. The pricing for the items was fair; our meal was about $45.00 before tip.  

*Rating a three out of five, but would return.