Your Happy Hearts

Motivation & How To Keep It

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 21:41:00 +0000

Our motivation will be missing at one point or another. Maybe even several times throughout our fitness life, as we try and make it a life “style” and not just a 12 week plan. Where am I today? Motivation out the window!

I still workout a few times per week and really haven't changed much of my eating habits. I now have the occasional glass of wine or 100 calorie beer (which I had previously cut out altogether). I am not getting up at 4:45 AM to do a morning workout and finishing my day with crazy one hour workouts. So for me personally, I am slaking.

I reached my goal weight this fall with great excitement and surprise as it was just under a year (Ya, it can take that long. Reality not Reality TV). I then set a goal to attend Phat Camp at my healthiest, which I did.

So now what? I stand in my gym, pick up a few weights and feel like I’m done. I pop in a DVD and for the most part I can push through and do great. And the other 20% off the time? I turn if off early. I am just being honest with you as I am sure we have all felt this at one point or another. I think our bodies just need a break and our mind recharged.

What it comes down to is a new goal or a new challenge. I want so desperately to build muscle. I don’t want to just tone. I want to look in the mirror and SEE I am strong. I know that is not how magazine models look 100% of the time. But they do it for competitions and photo shoots. They accomplished it once, twice, three times in their life (crazy abs and low body fat). So why not me at least once?

It all comes down to new determination and planning ahead. So get out your cookbook, your calendar, and your budget and make new plans for the new year and plan with me today. Why wait till New Years? Let's do it now!

P.S. More giveaways to come. So if your subscribed you are automatically entered. Commenting gives you another entry. So be on the lookout for goodies coming your way.

Giveaway reminder!

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:16:00 +0000

Winner will be drawn soon, so enter for the great Gym Gems giveaway. Want to show off your love of fitness? This is a perfect way to do it. Or if you don't want to win it for yourself, win it for the fitness junkie in your family. What a great Christmas present. Italian Sterling Silver bracelet with dumbbell charm - (retail value of $59.00). It comes packaged in a Gym Gems logo gift box with the bracelet nicely tucked away in a velvet logo draw string pouch. Also included is a logo sterling silver polish cloth.

Don't let this giveaway be given away to someone else! Visit the original posting and leave a comment for your entry.

~Angie

Gym Gems Giveaway!

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 01:39:00 +0000

YHH is excited to be working with Fran from Gym Gems again. With outstanding customer service, high quality jewelry, fast shipping and tracking, she will always be a part of Your Happy Hearts.

Last May, YHH ran a spring giveaway with one of Gym Gems' great dumbbell necklaces. 97 entries were received in great anticipation of winning. (Again, congrats to Kelli!) I get compliments on mine almost every time I'm out, as it speaks volumes for my love of fitness.

Gym Gems was kind enough to also send me the leather cord (in 16" and 18"), as well as the sterling silver rope chain. I have options depending on what I wear and how casual I want to be that day. The sterling silver rope dresses it up and the leather cords are great for the gym.

With 8 weeks left till Christmas, there's no time like now, to start planning your gifting list. Gym Gems has lots of options for the gym enthusiast in your family. Or possibly start dropping hints to your loved ones for your perfect gift.

The weight plate charm is another style available. It makes a great gift for men as well. It is available in a 3/4" or 1.5 " and your choice of sterling silver or 14 karat yellow gold. Add the heavy cable chain at 18", 20", 22" or 24" and you have a bulkier look for the bulkier guy.

The weighted plate necklace also comes available with toggle giving a more feminine appearance. So whether you are a dumbbell gal or a plate gal, show off your love of the gym with Gym Gems.

Do you have your navel pierced? Yup, Gym Gems has you covered on that too. This one is on my Christmas list! A great addition to any wardrobe for a fitness photo shoot. Add the earrings for the total package.

Fran has been so kind by sending me an additional bracelet for a giveaway. I now get to bless one lucky reader/subscriber ($59.00 value). I was happy with the size as it's not too bulky or too long that it gets in the way. You can also hook onto another loop and make shorter if necessary.

Follow the rules below and you are entered in the drawing.

#1 - Be a subscriber to YHH and leave a comment "I subscribe" or subscribe today and let me know you are a "New subscriber". (You may do this once per day for more chances to win.)

#2- Visit Gym Gems and leave a comment on what item/items you like in the store or general comments on the site. (You may do this once per day for more chances to win.)

#3- Follow YHH on Facebook at Angie Happy-Hearts for updates on giveaways and quick health tips.

#4- Be a Follower on YHH and join my fitness team.

You must be at least 18 years of age and a resident of the US (for shipping purposes).

Contest ends: November 8th at midnight. Winner will be chosen on November 9th.

Wear Your Music.org

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 19:45:00 +0000

Let's take a break from working out. Yup that's what I said. It's time to learn about a good cause.

My husband has been a musician in our church band for several years. It's a rockin' church mind you and he is a rockin' guitar player! I admire him for his passion of music and thank God for his gift which he can share with others. Music is something that can touch so many with different styles, lyrics, and feelings. Different styles of music is created for all of us. So no matter who you are, this is a something we all can get involved with and help charities across the world.

Musicians for years have given back to charities through donations of concert tickets, profits, and of their time. Wear Your Music.org created a website that brings it all together.

The bracelet shown here is made of real guitar strings (the Fashion Bracelet), is unisex, one size fits all and can be purchased in several different colors to wear alone or stack. They retail for only $9.99 and make great gifts. A percentage of the profits are given to different charities that support music.

Wear Your Music.org also sells bracelets made of guitar stings from all your favorite artists. The musicians donate their strings which are then sold on WYM.org. The money collected is given to a charity of the musician's choice. Prices range, depending on artist, from $75.00 up to Eric Clapton's at $500.00.

Bracelets donated by musicians are packaged in recycled DVD cases with certificates of authenticity.

Artists include:
Brian Adams, Buddy Guy, Carrie Underwood, Eric Clapton, Joan Jett, John Mayer, Tim McGraw, Toby Keith, even Larry the Cable Guy.

Visit Wear Your Music.org today and start Christmas shopping for the musician in your life. Plus, help a great charity at the same time.

If a bracelet is not your thing, visit their more merchandise page for necklaces, earrings, and charms.

Become a fan of Wear Your Music on Facebook and be entered to win free stuff each week until Christmas. Including a chance to win an artist bracelet. Upload a picture of yourself on Twitter, wearing your bracelet, and get a free Wear Your Music sticker.

Also, now available are gift certificates! Let that special someone pick out the artist of their choice.

Quick Youtube Workout

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 02:16:00 +0000

Wanted to share a short video with you I found on Youtube. I don't want you to think I am saying this is it for the day, but wanted to share the great ideas. I do something similar with my workout group at home. We do jumping jacks, jump rope, squats, high knees, and butt kicks for 8 1/2 minutes. I love mountain climbers and the "burpee to pushup" exercise. They jack your heart rate up fast.
Crank up the tunes, do this twice as long and you have your WARM UP! Now go grab some weights!!

Good vs. Evil

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:50:00 +0000

Who says you have to starve when you start eating healthy. Make the right choices and you can eat a lot more than you think. Take a look at this comparison. I figured all the numbers by simply entering them in the Calorie King computer program. This program is just amazing and well worth the $45.00.

Green Peppers: 10 peppers @ 15 calories = 150 calories VS. 29 Cheese Nips

1 cup Air Popped Popcorn = 31 calories and .6 mgs sodium VS. 1 cup Carmel coated Popcorn = 978 calories and 467.2 mgs. sodium (Hmm...won't be visiting that one at the next town carnival)

Home Made Ham and Cheese Omelet (6 LARGE eggs, 3 ounces cheese, 3 ounces ham) = 924 calories and 341 mgs. sodium VS. Perkins Deli Ham and Cheese Omelet Breakfast = 960 calories 1830 mgs. sodium (Had to use 6 large eggs to even come close to the calorie count of Perkins breakfast)

65 Pistachios @ 4 calories each = 260 calories VS. 1/2 cup Ben and Jerry's Pistachio Pistachio Ice Cream. (Have you ever tried to eat a 1/2 cup ice cream? I bet you can't).

Miller Chill = 100 calories VS. Smirnoff Twisted Raspberry Alcohol "Soda" = 240 calories

20 Olive Garden Bread Sticks @ 140 calories each = 2800 calories VS. Outback Aussie-Tizers Aussie Cheese Fries = 2900 calories (and if you order a meal with your appetizer you just ate almost THREE DAYS worth of food in one meal!)

20 Tbsp. Greek Yogurt = 300 calories VS. 3 Tbsp Mayonnaise (You can substitute Greek yogurt in lots of recipes. Try it in your next casserole)

3 ounces of Dark Chocolate 73% or higher = 51 calories VS. 1 ounce Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar (Yup, you can have three times as much if it's dark)

Green Beans (raw): 70 beans @ 2 calories = 140 calories VS. 11 Doritos (Yup, just 11)

All you have to do is make wise choices. And how do you make those choices? Educate yourself so the next time you go to Olive Garden you know off the top of your head a bread stick is 140 calories. Can you have it? Absolutely. But maybe one or two with your meal. Be smart. And DON'T ORDER THE AUSSIE CHEESE FRIES!!!

No More Boredom

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 23:29:00 +0000

Getting into a rut can happen quite frequently as you continue to workout. A once favorite routine becomes old and boring after some time. Working out and staying fit should be a way of life not just something you do for 6-8 weeks, get bored and give up, as is the case for many.

So to help you out I have listed some ideas to keep things fresh.

Buy used DVD’s from places like Goodwill, garage sales, online (Discount Workouts are really inexpensive). Get several different style workouts from weight lifting to yoga to cardio and kickboxing

Try new equipment. This can also be purchased at garage sales, Craig’s List or keep on eye out for end of season sales. Just after Christmas is a great time, as stores stock up and then need to move inventory quickly after the rush is over. Also good sales for those trying to make a New Years resolution. Ask for a deal on floor models. Or buy from friends after they don't continue with their resolution. It doesn't have to be a large piece of equipment, just something affordable and different. Even just a step or core board!
Change the room in your house in which you workout. If you have a full gym in your house, every so often pop in a DVD in the living room, in your bedroom, or on your computer in your office and do something that doesn’t require lots of space. The change of scenery may break up the boredom and get you motivated again.
Find a workout partner. Instead of working out alone and wondering if you really have energy that day, visit a friend and workout at their house or find a mutual gym you both like or live by. Having someone else counting on you to show up will for sure get your butt out the door.
Go for a jog but not in your usual places. Get in the car, go for a road trip first and find a new trail, park, or neighborhood to run/walk in. Having something new to look at takes focus off your workout.
Have your TV set up to come on automatically during shows on the Fit TV. (Try Gilad) Then if you are being lazy and just watching some mind numbing episode, when Gilad comes on, you will feel guilty and get up to workout with him. He can do that to you!
Get your kids or pets involved. Make a play date with them to go to the park, run around outside and make your workout routine for the day something fun and elementary like. Remember those run/sprints that you used to have to do in gym class? How about a jump rope or hoola- hoop? We did several run/sprints at Phat Camp. Burned a ton of calories and your kids and/or pets will love doing them with you.
Search Youtube for new workout ideas, proper form, or cooking shows (Check out Brooke Griffin for easy recipes). Any of these will jump start you back to a new you.

If you have any other ideas, please share. I may give you props in another post. I love to hear from you. Questions, comments, problems, I love it all. Contact me anytime here or at findyourfit@charter.net. Visit YHH for the link to find me on FB for more daily encouragement and tips.

Easy Smothered Salmon

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 01:40:00 +0000

Taken from The Maker's Diet by Jordan S. Rubin: (Page 241) who references The Lazy Person's Whole Food Cookbook by Stephen Byrnes. My additions in italics.

2 cups canned salmon (or 6 fresh salmon fillets)
3/4 cup diced celery
2 slices turkey bacon, chopped
1/2 cup boiling water
2 tbsp melted extra virgin coconut oil or butter (real, not artificial)
3/4 cup onion, chopped
1 tsp sea salt
2 thin slices lemon
2 jalapeno peppers (we love things spiced up a bit)

Combine oil or butter, turkey bacon, celery, onion, and salt; fry until light brown. Place salmon in center of greased baking pan. Arrange vegetables (jalapeno peppers - optional) and turkey bacon around salmon. Add water and cover. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 min. Remove cover and cook another 10 minutes. Serves 6.

Serve with a helping of fresh steamed veggies!

Diet and Zero Calorie Sodas vs. Your Health

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 13:39:00 +0000

As I continue to do my research on this soda "pop" junk, no matter what I find, there are no positives. OK I found one. The fact it contains water. Seriously. The one positive to pop is: "it's water content". That, a direct quote, from a book I was thumbing through while waiting in my chiropractor's office. I was so amazed by these few pages, the receptionist made me copies.

So this is what I have put together. I hope this helps you make the no "pop" choice.

Not thirst quenching: Due to the sugar content and other chemical substances, many soft drinks leave an after-thirst. This leads to even greater thirst than before.

Empty Calories: Sugar-sweetened soft drinks contain many calories, which are "empty". In order for the sugar in a soft drink to be transformed into energy, B-group vitamins and minerals are essential. Since these are absent in soft drinks, they must be obtained from the body's own reserves, thus depleting them. In other words, when an individual is not physically active these sugars turn into FAT!

Dental concerns: The combination of sugar and acids attack dental enamel VERY aggressively. Soft drink consumption is a factor in dental cares.

Decalcification: Several acids including phosphoric acid, are added to pop. It acidifies the blood which then the body tries to neutralize by releasing calcium and other minerals from the bones. This can be very harmful in people with osteoporosis.

Allergies: Many of the additives in soft drinks can cause allergies, which then cause skin irritations, stomach pain and digestive disorders, heart burn, nervous irritability and hyperactivity.

Urinary Stones: Regular consumption of pop/soda increase the risk of urinary stones.

Colas are dangerous for children, those suffering from insomnia, and cardiac disease!

So what about diet, zero calorie, zero sugar, zero whatever? If it has zero in it, then ask yourself "What is in it?" The zero pops, or "diet" pops, are NOTHING BUT CHEMICALS (oh and water).

So this is yet another challenge I make to you. GIVE UP THE SODA POP. It has been proven time and time again, that giving up pop and changing nothing else (no added exercise or food changes) people lose weight. The average man can lose 10-15 pounds just by switching beverage choice.

So do yourself a favor and find a beverage which does not contain High Fructose Corn Syrup, Aspartame or other artificial sweeteners and enjoy!

Water Challenge!

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:59:00 +0000

We all know our bodies are mostly water. So why don't we drink enough to supply our bodies with what it needs? Water helps your skin look fresh and young, helps you stay awake mid-day, flushes out toxins, reduces cravings, and helps you lose weight. Your body only retains water when you are dehydrated.

If you drink water your body won't think it's in need and will let the "retention" go. Yes, you have to run to the bathroom a lot, but think of it this way. If you work in an office job, you have an excuse to get up every 30 min.

I just purchased a great water bottle. Ever watch a little show called Biggest Loser? Of course you have. They all carry the awesome nalgene water bottle which is bpa free and a great solid, long lasting, plastic. As much as I love the green bottle they use on the show, I could not resist, I had to get the pink. It's 32 oz. featuring the narrow mouth. It's also really comfortable to drink from. And with the measurements on the side, I can keep track of my water intake.

So here is my challenge to you, and yet again, to myself. I want you to try and drink either 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight or one gallon. Your choice. One gallon equals four of the naglene bottles. This is my goal. I completed three today by 9:30 PM. Wow, have to be a bit better tomorrow.

I promise within only a few days of this you, will see extra weight fall off.

Good luck and let me know how it's going. Tell me your goal (1 ounce water per pound or 1 gallon). I love to read your comments.

Be Blessed.

Mushroom Omelet Melt

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:49:00 +0000

Just passing on a great morning fast breaker!

6 egg whites
pepper to taste
3/4 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons green onion, chopped
1/2 Roma tomato, chopped
1/2 jalapeno pepper (optional) no seeds, chopped
1/3 cup shredded canned chicken
1 1/2 ounces low fat cheddar cheese, shredded

In small bowl, lightly beat the egg whites with a fork and season to taste with pepper.

Coat a small nonstick saute pan with cooking spray and place over med. heat. Add the veg and cook until tender.

Add egg mixture and cook until set on the bottom. Sprinkle the cheese over top, fold omelet in half, and cook a bit longer until cheese is melted and eggs are set.

191 calories; 3 g fat; 38 g protein; 7 g carbs; 29 mgs. cholesterol; and 696 sodium

Add a cup of coffee using Whey Sensible Chocolate Protein from PGN Nutrition instead of creamer for a yummy cafe' mocha.

Couldn't get any better than this!

100% Pure Giveaway!!

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 18:42:00 +0000

Being healthy is not only working out and watching what you eat. It goes beyond that to what you put on your skin. I highly recommend as you make changes to your diet and workout routines you make changes in your daily products. This effects your metabolism and hormones as your skin is the largest organ.

As we get healthy and fit, women start making drastic changes. We go shopping for skinny clothes, get a new hair style and color, and buy new makeup. Losing weight is a total transformation inside and out.

100% Pure is a fantastic easy to use site with lots of products to choose from. I have been using the Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream and just love it! These products are all 100% natural and 100% vegan. Some of the organic ingredients in the eye cream include: Green Tea, Green Coffee, Vitamin E and C, Rosemary, Oregano, Thyme, and coffee extracts. Just to name a few! One pump of this awesome smelling lotion is plenty for both eyes. One pump goes a long way. It beats out the grocery store/pharmacy brand creams by far. Say goodbye to dark circles and puffy eyes.

Who doesn't love organic dark chocolate? How about in a body scrub? 100% Pure offers an Organic Chocolate Mocha Body Scrub. With 99% organic ingredients including: Dark Belgian Chocolate, Hawaiian Kona Coffee Beans, Grapeseed Oil, Bourbon Madagascar Vanilla Beans, Oregano, Thyme, Rosemary and cinnamon. (again to name only a few!).

100% Pure body creams come in 23 amazing scents ! These lotions are thick and rich. You won't be disappointed. These lotions will go a long way as they have nice coverage.

One last product that I just have to tell you about is the Carrot Facial Scrub. I have to say this is about one of my favorite facial scrubs. I enjoy the larger beads when scrubbing my face in the shower. It smells great and leaves my skin really smooth. This is a must buy.

By visiting 100% Pure you will find cosmetics, shower gels, facial skin care, hand creams, body washes, bath salts, gift sets (great Christmas idea and not too soon to think about), hair care and even lotions for kids!

So now that I told you all of this, what fun would it be if I didn't give you the change to win something? I have one Chocolate Mocha Body Scrub or a Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream to giveaway. I am letting you chose your gift!

Here's how to enter:

#1 - Be a subscriber to YHH. If you already are, leave a comment "I subscribe". Or subscribe today and leave a comment "New subscriber." And let me know if you want the body scrub or eye cream.

#2- Enter again by following me on FB at Angie Happy-Hearts for daily quotes of inspiration. When I get your friend request that is a second entry!

#3- Visit 100% Pure and let me know what you like about their site and/or your favorite product. (Winners have been chosen based on comment alone so make it a good one)!

#4-Be a follower of YHH. Leave me a comment "I follow" or "New follower".

YOU MAY ENTER EACH DAY until contest ends!

Contest will end on October 24th at midnight! Good luck.......

Phat Camp Schedule for 2010

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 23:17:00 +0000

Exciting news: The new Phat Camp schedule is out for 2010. We are fast approaching a new year. Set some goals and make one of them attending Phat Camp. You have plenty of time to register, get the money together, and do a trip that will change your life. Believe me, it did mine.

This next year Jen is adding the "Phitness Retreat". This is also a 2 1/2 day camp but all are in N. Carolina and consist of smaller groups being between 10-20 girls. Phat Camp can be anywhere from 30-100 ladies. So now you have two choices. Phat Camp is $300 and you can find a location near you or Phitness Retreat is $400 and have Jen's team plan your airfare and hotel and make a vacation out of getting Phit!

With the Retreat you also get an opportunity to go to Jen's house and have dinner as she lives in N. Carolina. You can count me in for this one. I am just trying to decide now what date will work for me next year. I am putting this on my list of things for sure. I love having the thought of Jen and Heather yelling at me to push through. Makes me workout in my home gym harder knowing I have to face them again.

So check out the schedule and Jen's sites and make that commitment to do this in the next up coming year. It's time to STAY....Start Thinking About You!

2010 Schedule: www.getphatwithjen.com

January 23-25 Jen's Phitness Retreat
January 29-31 Calgary , CA
February 5-7 Tampa , FL
February 19-21 Jen's Phitness Retreat
March 19-21 Vancouver , CA
March 26-28 Jen's Phitness Retreat
April 9-11 Atlanta , GA
April 23-25 Edmonton , CA
May 1-3 Jen's Phitness Retreat
May 14-16 Cleveland , OH
June 11-13 Boston , MA
June 25-27 Jen's Phitness Retreat
July 16-18 All Women’s Weekend Charleston, SC
July 30-August 1 Honolulu , Hawaii
August 27-29 Jen's Phitness Retreat
September 10-12 Dayton , Ohio
October 1-3 Jen's Phitness Retreat
October 8-10 Toronto , CA
October 15-17 Kenosha, Wisconsin

Sleeping off the Fat!

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 23:57:00 +0000

This article is for me. I am just letting you read what I need to be telling myself in hopes that you need to hear it too.

In a very loud, you better listen to me voice, I say to myself: “Get some sleep. Seriously”.

OK, so the “seriously” is always the voice of Jillian Michaels. When you watch BL and listen to her pod-cast, you realize how much she says it. But I love it. Seriously. Especially when she says it with the big question mark. Like, are you joking? Seriously? My husband and I use this on each other all the time. But anyway….

I have not been doing a very good job of getting my sleep as of late. I am sliding into my late night habits again. My alarm goes off at 5:30 AM so it’s important not to pull an all-nighter. Going to bed at 11:30 or midnight is not working for me. It’s only been about a week or two but I can tell it’s starting to catch up with me.

So why is sleep so important? It balances your hormones, (which makes up your metabolism), you burn fat, and your muscles repair while you sleep. Your Human Growth Hormone (HGH) levels are very high when resting which is important to your recovery. If you aren’t sleeping, your recovery time is less and your muscles will not be ready for the gym the next day.

Another reason? You tend to snack to stay awake. How does a bag of Doritos sound from a when you’re feeling sleepy? Probably better than when you’re well rested and have your energy to hit the gym later. You also want to snack more after a good handful or two because it’s loaded with chemicals to make you crave another. (Doritos are the worst by the way!) See why you need your sleep?

I work a 7:30 – 5:00 job and it’s very sedentary as I sit all day. Which drives me crazy but that’s another post. So by 3 o’clock I feel like I need a nap. I used to think it was because of my pour food choices, which I am sure played some role. As I feel I now have that under control, I am convinced it’s the five hours of sleep I am getting instead of the 8-9 that my body needs.

A study was conducted at the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Sleep deprived subjects. Were tested over a matter of 11 days and they all gained an average of 3 pounds. While the well rested subjects gained no weight. That’s enough right there to make me put my head on a pillow right now and zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Sweet Potatoes so good it should be a dessert

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 02:07:00 +0000

Spray a frying pan with Pam.

Slice up yams or sweet potatoes, (same thing according to the "Self Scanner" at the grocery store), into round thin slices and layer on the bottom of a large frying pan. I recommend one yam per person.

Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg. I honestly don't measure. I just give a nice layer to the top of all the yams.

Keep on medium heat until the yams start to soften. Flip the sweet potatoes and sprinkle the other side.

Now here comes the good part: When the yams are soft enough but not mush, turn off the heat and serve on plate drizzling them with honey!

Can this possibly be good for you? 54 Calories per sweet potato, 1.2 grams protein, 21 grams sodium, and only 12 carbs. Add cinnamon and nutmeg both with health benefits and the ever so good natural source of sugar, honey (64 cal. per Tbs, but we are just drizzling).

Did you know that if you eat honey from your local farms that the bees are making honey with pollens in your area and can help reduce your allergies? Yup, those bees are pretty smart.

So enjoy a great potato "dessert" with you next family dinner. This is something your kids will for sure love.

Yummy Turkey Salad

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 03:04:00 +0000

This is so easy, even I can do it.

Two cans of shredded Turkey
One honey crisp red apple - medium
Two celery sticks, chopped to little bite size squares
1/2 cups of chopped almonds, walnuts, and/or cashews
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup red grapes - chopped in half
2 cups of Greek Yogurt until blended or desired thickness

*You can put this on bread for a sandwich and add romaine lettuce
*Fill turkey salad into a whole wheat flat bread with romaine lettuce and sprinkle with low fat cheese
*You can also pack on crackers for an appetizer
*Or on a bed of mixed greens for a salad topper

Enjoy!

No More Excuses

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 23:49:00 +0000

I made so many excuses when I started my fitness journey just over a year ago. I even made a pros and cons list to working out. Do any of these sound familiar to you?

#1 - I am too tired
#2- I have too many other things to do
#3- I just don't feel like it
#4- It was a rough day at work
#5- I want to go out to dinner and then what's the point of working out tonight
#6- I feel stupid because I don't really know what I am doing
#7 - It's too hard and I hurt the next day
#8- I have to get up early tomorrow
#9- I can't decide what to eat or do for workouts. I will plan it out for next week and then get started
#10- It's my birthday so I deserve the day off and this cake
#11- No one will workout with me
#12- I really wanted to workout alone tonight not with my spouse
#13- My TV show starts in 20 min. and I don't have enough time
#14- I have to deal with the kids first and foremost (OK I don't have kids, maybe that's one of your excuses.)
#15- I am so busy with church commitments I don't have time
#16- I can't afford a gym
#17- I hate working out at home
#18- I only want to workout at home but have no equipment
#19- I hate working out to DVD's I want a personal trainer
#20- I can't afford a personal trainer
#21- I can't afford the better groceries
#22- I only have time for fast food and frozen dinners
#23- My friends made me go out for lunch so now my day is ruined
#24- Maybe I can just order those pills on line and those will work. I'll try that next week.
#25- I don't know where to start

Do you want me to go on? I have said so many of these to myself depending on the day, the month, or where the moon was in the sky. Seriously!

Do you think when I started I could do a full pushup. No. I did about five on my knees. This isn't something that happens overnight.

You are going to be tired when you first start because you are out of shape. You are going to be sore the next day because you are out of shape. You aren't going to know what to eat, because you haven't done this before. You aren't going to have the money for it because it's not on the top of your priority list so you haven't budgeted for it.

Stop with the excuses and "JUST DO IT". Once you get started YOU get to take ALL the credit for YOUR accomplishment because nobody can make this change but YOU.

Get off your butt and workout and eat healthy. I am done being nice!

OK, maybe not. But do it already!

~Angie

H – A – Double L – O – W – Double E – N

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 15:40:00 +0000

.......spells Halloween. I sing that in my head every year. It’s just one of the things I can’t get rid of from my childhood memories. This is how I learned to spell Halloween thanks to my music teacher!

As a child, Halloween is about picking the right costumes, parties at school, neighborhood block parties, and lots of tricks and treats. But as an adult, this can be a very dangerous time of year. I don’t mean the scary neighbor who wants to give your kids un-wrapped food. I am talking about the pumpkin cookies, the mud/worm pies, candy bars filling your child’s pumpkin, and even the receptionist’s candy dish she’s been filling with candy since September 1st. Then there is the adult Halloween parties which consist of non-stop snacking and treats in a glass. The ever so yummy hot apple cider and rum, who can resist right?

Here are a few tips to hopefully get you through this season:

#1 - It’s OK not to eat every treat your co-workers bring in. Don’t let them pressure you into having a huge slice of pumpkin pie with cool whip at 8 AM. On the flip side, it’s also OK to have one or two pieces of candy per day. But that’s it. (If you can’t handle just one or two, then don’t have any). If you can, have yourself a handful of candy corn. This will not ruin your diet. Just make sure it’s all accounted in your calories. We still have to live this life and have fun doing it. Denying these things will become the destruction of your new workout/healthy-self.

#2 - What do you do if you’re the mom who has to make cupcakes with the candy ghosts, goblins, and gummy worms on top for school? Don’t lick the bowls and spoons when you’re done (huge number of unaccounted calories). Quickly throw everything in a sink of hot water and don’t offer it to your children. They don’t need it either. Make sure you send ALL the snacks to school. Don’t leave any at home. If you can get away with skipping the cupcakes, cakes, pies, etc. then try and make a healthier snack choice for the school parties.

#3 - Put together some yummy trail mix in cute Halloween gift bags and throw in a handful of M&M’s. This way you won’t become the mean health-nut mom at the parent/teacher meetings. Or cut up small apple chunks, sprinkle with nutmeg and cinnamon and dry them in your oven or dehydrator. Add pumpkin seeds to the mix. They are really healthy for you as well. Watch the sodium levels when using soy sauces or lots of regular salt for your pumpkin seeds.

#4 - When your child comes home from trick-or-treating, (this one is going to hurt) take half the candy and toss it out (when they aren’t looking of course). Or limit the amount of houses you take them too. Kids don’t need this rush of sugar. It causes bad habits as an adult. Why do you think you are so tempted by the candy dish at work? Keep adult hands out of the kids’ candy. It’s OK to let them have a few as it’s all about tradition and you don’t want to strip them of the memories, but you also don’t want the plastic pumpkin on the top of the fridge tempting you either. You have come such a long way in making the right choices don’t let a few tiny snickers bars tempt you to think because they are small you can have four. Now you just had an entire candy bar!

#5 - Go to a hotel with a pool Halloween night. With all the money you are saving on NOT buying the neighbors candy, you can spend a fun night with your kids. Swim until the pool closes, play some games, wear them out, make your own traditions. The children can’t see what’s going on outside to be jealous of their friends. After a few fun years, they won’t even miss the candy tradition. Your also not home, lights out, and no one will expect you to be passing out junk food. It’s a good message to your friend/neighbors who have been giving you a hard time for your healthy ways.

#6- Use your head. You know better. You have been doing so good for so long, why let a silly traditional holiday get in the way of your goals. So have that one Peppermint Patty shaped like a pumpkin with orange filling and call it good.

Gilad's Quick Fit System

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 18:37:00 +0000

If you have never heard of Gilad then you have been sleeping under a fitness rock for a LONG time. Gilad is one of the world's most famous fitness personalities, having been on TV for years. Here is an excerpt from "About Gilad" found on bodiesinmotionwithgilad.com.

" Filmed on location in the beautiful Hawaiian Islands, ‘Bodies in Motion’ is a half-hour aerobic and toning workout show which launched in 1983. It was the first fitness show to air on ESPN, where it enjoyed an eleven-year run from 1985 to 1996. From 1996 to 2002 the show aired on Fox Sports and on The Health Network. As of 2002 the show has been airing on Discovery’s new fitness channel Fit TV. Currently the show is the longest running fitness show in the US. ‘Bodies in Motion’ won Cable Magazine’s ‘People’s Choice Award’ for best health and fitness show every year the category was offered. The show aired in over 80 countries and was chosen as the #1 TV fitness program in the world by Self Magazine. In a viewers poll conducted by FitTV Gilad won the title of ‘Fitness Instructor of the Year’ for the years 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007".

With several workout DVD's to chose from and TV shows to turn on at all hours of the day or night, you can transform your body with Gilad. I was so honored to hear I was receiving Gilad's Quick Fit System. I had seen it advertised on TV several times as my husband and I have workout and recorded his shows for quite sometime.

The system not only comes with all the DVD's that you need, but also brochures on a 12 week workout program on what to do when. Plus a nutritional plan booklet to help you in the right food choices. Included is also a journal for keeping track of workouts and food. Track your transformation for the entire 12 weeks.

I teach an at home woman's workout class to help my friends/family. I have used several of Gilad's workout moves. I also catch myself sounding just like him: "Hold Hold Hold." Well, minus the accent.

If there were ever a personality that comes through the screen and makes you want to work harder, it's Gilad. In some way I almost feel like I am going to let him down if I stop or don't get off my butt and workout with him. I can't ever flip through the TV channels, come across an episode, and just watch. I feel the need to quick change clothing and join in!

If you are looking for a new workout program, or something to jump start that boring slump you are in, Gilad is it. Once you discover how hard and fun his workouts can be, you won't want to give up on the new you. You can also purchase Bodies In Motion logo clothing at the Bodies in Motion site.

So hook up with Gilad today and jump start your workouts!

Contest Time!

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 13:59:00 +0000

I love a good giveaway. So, feeling like it's time for another one. This is a gift simply from me to you.

Hitting your goal weight is an amazing feeling. I finally hit mine this past week. Being at a plateau for almost three months, I was frustrated with the same scale weight. Although I don't recommend getting on the scale over and over. It's something to look at periodically. What really matters is what you see in the mirror. The best way to work the scale if you want an accurate reading (don't obsess over this though) is to get on the scale everyday, same time, preferably in the evening, and take an average for the week. Each day, you can fluctuate by several pounds depending on water retention, bathroom habits, and sodium intake. So don't get crazy with this. Just take it with a grain of salt, or a low sodium spice.

I found through my trip to Phat Camp, I really needed a kick start in my routine. Something so different to muscle confuse and to get my bodies hormones jump started. That it did. After a few weeks back from camp, I thought for sure I would put those two pounds back on, and to my surprise, I dropped another 2. So I can honestly say, I am right were I want to be. Now the tricky part, putting pounds back on that are all muscle. (Always reach a goal and immediately set another one.)

So in celebration of my next goal being reached, I want to give you a chance to win a gift! Eating healthy, taking care of our skin, and changes in hair styles, you name it we do it as we feel better about ourselves. Most start to tan like crazy. To help you out in the tanned sexy leg area I am giving away a set of BeautiControl Leg Apeel valued at $52.00.

It comes with a three bottle system. The first one is the Leg Peel. You put this on at night to loosen dead skin cells and even your sunless tan. Second is the Leg Scrub. Simply use in the shower the next morning to exfoliate. Then the final step, the Sunless Tanner which is fast drying and has a light scent. Who doesn't want to workout hard in the gym for sexy legs and not have them all nice and tanned? So what do you have to do to win? Simple:

#1 - Be a subscriber to YHH. If you are already subscribed, you are always entered in all my giveaways automatically. But please leave me a comment "Subscriber" for one entry and to let me know you are really wanting to win this particular giveaway. If you are not subscribed, do so now and leave me a comment, "New Subscriber".

#2 - Follow me on my Happy Hearts FB for morning advice on health and fitness. It's a great way to get a jump start on your morning. Leave me a comment that you did a request for a second entry to win.

#3 - Simply leave me a comment, for a third entry, about your next health and fitness goal. Winners have been selected by comment alone, so make it a good one.

Contest will end next Saturday, October 10, at midnight. Winner will be selected on Sunday and notified per email. If you are not a blogger please leave me your email address on your comment (spam control example: findyourfit @ charter dot net)

Good Luck!

Craving something so yummy it can't possibly be healthy?

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 21:09:00 +0000

How can you get good calories, vitamins, and protein, and make it taste good? Chocolate and vanilla protein powders can be a very good source of all of these with just water or milk and ice.

I highly recommend using Whey Sensible by PGN Nutrition. Purchase from http://www.pgnnutrition.com/shop/125, which is the YHH affiliate site!

Here's a few great tasting shakes if you are tired of just chocolate and vanilla. Be creative. Eating healthy can still be fun......

(Each one mixed with 12 oz. cold milk, soy milk or water)

Blackberry Crush Smoothie: Vanilla protein mix, 2 Tbsp. frozen orange juice concentrate, 10 frozen blackberries, and 4 ice cubes.

Strawberry/Blueberry Smoothie: Vanilla protein mix, 6 frozen strawberries and 1/2 cup frozen blueberries, 4 ice cubes.

Chocolate Mint Smoothie: Chocolate protein mix, 1/8 tsp mint extract and 4 ice cubes.

Pina Colada: Vanilla protein mix, 1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks (not canned), 1/2 tsp. coconut extract, 6 ice cubes.

Chocolate Very Cherry: Chocolate protein mix, 1/3 cup frozen cherries, 6 ice cubes.

Blackberry Freezy: Vanilla protein mix, 2 Tbsp frozen orange juice concentrate, 10 frozen blackberries, and 3 ice cubes.

Chai Soy: 1/2 cold vanilla soy milk, 1/2 cup Chai Tea concentrate, vanilla soy protein, 1 cup crushed ice.

Cappuccino Proteino: Vanilla protein mix, 2 tsp instant coffee, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 6 ice cubes.

Key Lime Pie: Vanilla protein mix, 3 Tbsp frozen limeade concentrate, 6 ice cubes.

Enjoy!

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 01:00:00 +0000

Day #3 started out with KC and I wondering how we were going to get out of bed that morning. We were so sore. But we came this far and no reason to quit now.

Day three was legs and it was insane. It was good insane. I learned more moves and variety of workout in this day then I had in a long time. I had seen several moves in magazines, online articles, and other sources but had never seen the style of leg work we did here. It was simple but effective, crawling on the floor movements, which used your core as well as arms and legs. My heart rate stayed up pretty high the entire time. I was burning about 700-900 calories during each workout we did. This gave me a total of almost 2500 calories for the Phat Camp weekend. Being careful what to eat and to not bloat during the weekend, I ended up with a great calorie deficit leaving me 2.5 pounds lighter on Monday. I had hit a plateau so it was nice to see that I still had room for improvement.

The Phat Camp team was unbelievable. They taught us so much about fitness and even more about ourselves and grabbing life for all it's worth. Amazing stories and information was given during this weekend. I must say as I sat there and looked around the room at all the girls that had returned for their second, third, or fourth trip back and I was thinking "Are they crazy to do this again?" The answer is "No".

The biggest impact of camp was the days that followed. Everything started to impact my thoughts. What was I doing in my full time job? What impact was I making on myself or others? Of course, the story goes deeper and I must share something more personal.

The Thursday night before camp, my husband and I went to the funeral of a dear friend, who passed away within six months of being diagnosed with cancer at the age of 51. Can you agree this puts things in perspective? I personally feel an urgency to be working in an environment where change is happening and being seen. I no longer want to work for someone else. My dream is to run my home salon and a part time gym. Doing both things will bring me great joy and finally grab life by the horns. Through years of encouragement from my husband I finally have it and want to go for it 100%. I have a strong hearts desire to teach women to love themselves, make time for themselves, and lose the weight once and for all.

As Jen says all through camp "YOLO" You Only Live Once. I have taken this phrase more seriously in my life.

One other thing has happened I did not expect was the out pouring of support AFTER camp. Just days after camp my camp girls found me on Facebook. We continue to support each other, have forums through inbox messaging, and encourage each other EVERY DAY! How amazing is that? We didn't get to know each other that well at camp, as we worked hard and sweated harder. But after? We can't get enough of each other.

I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. Memories will be with me for a life time. Please, take the time and register for this camp. I don't say it because someone is telling me to promote this. I thank Jen for the opportunity to go, but with true honesty tell you, you won't be sorry registering for a camp.

2010 is going to be even more exciting. I can't wait to go back!

A personal thank you to KC: Thank you for loving me through Facebook and text. To hop on that plane and do this camp with me was truly a blessing. You are an answer to prayer. God fulfilled a need for a close friend. (But I think he missed the part about close, :) Seriously, He knew what He was doing and you really are a close friend and I treasure you. Thanks for being with me on a great adventure. I only wish we weren't so tired and could have stayed up and chatted all night. But we can blame Jen, Heather, and the PC team for that. Love you girl!

Register today at www.getphatwithjen.com

Also check out all the supplements and protein powders at:
http://www.pgnnutrition.com/shop/125

Phat Camp #2

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 20:27:00 +0000

Day #2 of Phat Camp: (Pictured here: Me and the ever so lovely Heather Bear. What a sweetheart!)

KC and I headed back to the hotel Friday night and crashed. Of course we both had our laptops and we made sure we were on Facebook to let our friends and family know we survived our first night. Neither one of us slept that well. I was thinking, at this point, can I really do this for two more days? The answer was "Yes". You would be surprised how much you are able to push yourself in a situation like this.

Day #2 September 12:

As soon as we got settled back into the gym on Saturday morning we were off for a jog. We got right to work. We did a sprint style training as well. It was almost like being thrown back into high school. Run as fast as you can, do some pop squats, run back, tag the next person in line, run again and get your team to the other side the fastest. We did all sorts of fun team challenges outside. It was really interesting. The best part? Jen telling everyone how they can easily do this at home with kids in a park. You just need to take the time to do these things for yourself and I totally agree!

After running for about 40 min. we were given the option to go inside and keep working or shop the "Camp Store". KC and I both thought we would rather keep going. If I sat or shopped my momentum might have dropped. So the group split in to two groups. At this point we went to the Woman's Area of Neo Limits and worked with Jen. Which was nice because the group was smaller allowing some one on one time with Jen. I remember pushing through a shoulder raise with weights and Jen was right in my face. Encouraging me to keep going, counting off the reps, and showing she believed in me. Even only knowing her for a short time you can feel her compassion for others. This is a moment I will not soon forget. It continues to drive me now even at home.

Finally we got to shop the Camp Store. Jen Hendershott and her team bring some amazing things with them to the camp. T-shirts, sweatshirts, scarves (had to have one of those) and the ever so famous Bling Phat Camp T. Now, I must say $65 was a little hard to swallow, but I had saved for this trip and dog gone it, I was buying it! I had stared at this photo on my computer desktop for over 6 months reminding me to keep working hard. To continue to motivate me that I was going to workout with this amazing group of ladies. So of course, now I have my bling shirt and look just like them. Well, someday. Hopefully soon!

Another great item they sell at the Phat Camp store is the ever so amazing Gym Gems. I have worked with Fran from Gym Gems in the past and posted a review and giveaway. I was thrilled to see her wonderful jewelry at camp. I highly recommend this as a gift to yourself for achieving a goal which you set for yourself or a gift for someone else who is a fitness junkie. Show your support to your loved ones and buy them a Gym Gems. I have not taken my dumbbell off since I received it!

We finished our day on Sat. with more conversations of health, nutrition, and Jen's journey through the fitness world. Several woman shared amazing stories of strength and over coming obstacles. Thank you to those who spoke. The gal shown in the photo here asked Jen to teach her a move that she saw on You Tube. Without any thought Jen obliged and then asked her to try. She did a great job on her first try and nailed it.

Saturday came to a close with again a dance session of letting lose and having fun. KC and I went straight to the hotel, laid on the bed and ate, watched a chick flick (or part of it) on TV and were out for the night........

Phat Camp Ohio 2009 #1

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 02:29:00 +0000

Wow, is it over already? I can't believe it. The anticipation of going to Phat Camp and now it's done. I have so much to say about this experience. I just know I can't put it all in one article or you would be reading for hours. So this will be a series of three.

So where do I start? Prior to camp, Phat Campers received a series of emails explaining what we needed to do to register and what to bring. Jen Hendershott herself emailed the group one week prior to say hello and she was looking forward to meeting us. We also received a 180 page packet - PDF file (which many of my Facebook friends reminded me was really a book) that we could read for fitness routines, nutrition, stories of success, and much more. The great information in this book is only for campers, so no sharing here. (Register for a camp and you can have on too!)

My workout partner, KC, flew into my local airport from N. Carolina on Friday the 11th and we started a five hour road trip to our hotel destination in Dayton, Ohio. We registered at the hotel, changed into workout clothes, and headed to find our gym. We were lucky to be hosted by Neo Limits Gym in Dayton/Centerville. (This was an amazing place.)

As KC and I drove to the gym, the car was suddenly silent and she asked me "So what are you thinking or feeling right now?" We were both anxious to say the least. Just the unknown of what to expect. After much time "stalking" Jen on line (as Jen put it, with a smile), looking at the photo gallery on www.getphatwithjen.com of previous campers, can not prepare you for this adventure. Previous campers say each year is different. So with much anticipation, we arrived a few minutes later at Neo Limits. We walked in and registered with Heather Bear, (shown in red). Then in the corner of my eye I spotted Jen meeting and greeting. To see someone for the first time you have only seen in magazines was awesome. But then to meet her and see she's real like you, was something I won't forget. Remember: Just because they are in the magazines does not mean that aren't a person with a story or have it easier with life in general. Or even that they can do it and you can't. We are all women with the same goal of being healthy and the same struggles in life. Cover models are airbrushed and champs of fitness competitions do NOT look like that 24/7. Set a realistic fitness goal for yourself and stop comparing yourself to others.

After the meet and greet, Jen had us all sit in a circle and started sharing with us how campers all come with a life story, how we were all nervous wondering if we could keep up with the others, and how happy she was that we were there. Her stories of inspiration and real life issues were amazing and I will never forget them. Jen was very down to earth and willing to answer ALL questions. She never showed frustration with campers wanting to go on and on and ask question after question.

Then came the Friday Night Boot Camp. Right into it, we picked a partner and starting working out. I believe this workout was about an hour and a half or so total. Then to cool down we did something I thought was pretty stinking cool! We danced. We started with shy ladies embarrassed to dance in front of others. As Jen and her team went around the circle and pulled women to the center, they really let go. When was the last time you got to party it up like that? It was fun and a bonding experience too.

Even after just a few hours the first night, we woke up a bit sore the next morning. Sat. morning started with lots of pictures, as we didn't want to take them after getting all sweaty. This picture is of me and Latisha. She was fab! What a great encourager and spunk. I really liked here energy.

Want to know what Saturday was like?
Stayed tuned for review #2.......

Be Blessed, Angie!

Body Temple.net Clothing Review

taylorhappyheart@gmail.com (Angie) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:05:00 +0000

I am always looking for comfortable workout clothing. I came upon Body Temple.net during a Google search and wanted to experience some pieces for myself.

The pants you now see in my photo (the Rollover Stretch Pant) on the home page to YHH, were the ones I selected. There is a lot of extra material at the top of the pant, giving you the ability to place the the pant wherever comfortable on your hips. The Lycra on the pants is good quality and should hold up well. They seem to keep shape after washing and drying. It's also a thicker Lycra so not to wear out after only a few uses or washes. At $30 I believe these are a reasonable buy for anyone looking to add more workout clothing to their closet.

I really love the "wife beater" tanks for working out. It gives you the ability to see all your arm muscles working, as well as your shoulders. When I saw the glitz of this kitty "boy beater" tank I just knew I had to add this to my workout collection. I received mine in a pale pink. The Kitty Tank retails for $20. They are made longer than a normal tank, so they give a very slimming effect as well as cover the lower back when wearing low ride pants. After a few washes, washing inside out, I have not lost any rhinestones.

Body Temple.net has clothing for both men and women with the choices ranging from casual, to heavy workout, to competition suits for posing. They also sell supplements, protein powders, tanning products, right down to gym socks.

So check out Body Temple.net and shop through their wide range of clothing choices and much more.