Getting Back in the Game

Getting Back in the Game

 

 

After the release of the "21 Day Fix" program, I came to a standstill. I let my emotions take over and determine what I ate, when I worked how and how I felt. If you are anything like me, you may have felt this way before. Discouraged, upset and distracted. For some reason I just could NOT get into the groove of things. I would do a couple workouts and then just stop. Then I would start eating whatever I felt like...which lead to me just feeling worse. I knew I had to do something, but what? I knew what I was supposed to be doing, so why couldn't I just do it? Things were going well in my life. Work was good, family was good..so what was different??..then it hit me. My thought process was kind of on the negative side. Thinking things like "At least this program is 21 days" or "When this is over, I'm going to eat whatever I want". I definitely want to make this whole experience a positive LIFESTYLE change, not "just for now" change.

Anyway, I had to think of something to do, something that would change my thoughts, my outlook on life, and have a positive impact. So I turned to God. I've always had a relationship with God for as long as I could remember, but I knew  I needed to devote more time to Him, really talk to Him and start building a closer relationship with Him.  I ordered "The purpose Driven Life" book off of amazon and anxiously awaited its arrival. All I can say is WOW this book is awesome. It helped to rekindle my relationship with Jesus and see everything in a totally different way. I now look at situations and think "Would the Lord be proud of me for doing this, acting this way, thinking this". For me, this is a much happier way to live. I feel more alive when I'm with my family and excited to wake up in the mornings and see what the day shall bring!

 

 

So this was my "ah-ha" moment.  LIFE IS A GIFT. We must treat it that way. I plan to take advantage of every moment that God has planned for me. I have struggled with food addiction for so long that I know that I cannot do it alone. I pray about it every morning. I am on day 14 of the 21 day fix and couldn't be happier with my results! So far I have lost 8 lbs and cannot wait to share with you next week what the end results are! I feel more energized, my skin has cleared up, I can stay outside in the heat playing with the kids without feeling sick, I feel full & satisfied after eating & most importantly I feel GOOD about myself for the first time in a long time!!

I know what its like to mess up on a "diet", to start and then give up, to think you could never do that, to not feel good about yourself. But, you don't have to feel that way. Not anymore! I want you to come join my team! To work with me one-on-one and have unlimited support. We can do this together! We can end this trend and work towards a healthy, happier brand new you!! I would love to hear from you with comments, questions, suggestions, anything!! Contact me anytime! I would looove to chat! Or find me on facebook!!!

Turbofire Chili

I have never been a big fan of chili. To be honest, up until recently, the only chili I really liked was my sister-in-laws white chicken chili. BUT...then I came across this recipe. It had good reviews and everyone seemed to rave about it. Now, that alone did not convince me. But when I saw a picture of it and read the ingredients....I thought to myself "that doesn't really sound like regular chili". In my mind, when I think of chili I think of alot of red sauce & beans. That may not be accurate on what chili is but that's what has always been in my head haha! So anyway I figured that I would give it a try. I ended up LOVING it!! I thought for sure that the corn must have been a typo...why would corn be in chili?!? But, the little sweetness of the corn actually made it better! I was hooked. I make this at least 1-2 times a month now. I freeze the leftovers in small containers and then thaw them for quick lunches. I hope you enjoy!!! 

TurboFire chili

1 lb lean ground turkey
1/2 c diced tomatoes
8oz canned corn
1/2 onion, diced
2cloves garlic
8oz canned black beans
8oz kidney, pinto or chili beans
1 tbs tomato paste
1 package Lawry's chili seasoning
4oz cheddar cheese (optional)

Brown turkey meat, drain excess. Place all ingredients except cheese into slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. I cooked mine on the stove for 30 minutes on high and it turned out great.
Place 1oz cheese on top  if desired.

The 21 Day Fix Has Arrived!!!!

YAY! The 21 day FIX was released on Monday! It's going to be EPIC!!!

Simple fitness, simple eating....FAST results!

This program includes an easy to follow nutrition and fitness guide that makes losing weight simple! You can lose up to 15 pounds in just 21 days!! No counting calories, no guessing portion sizes...INSTEAD...its just easy to follow portion control and 30 minute workouts. That's it! Enough time to get ready for that upcoming wedding, vacation, reunion...anything! All you need to do is commit for 3 weeks! That is totally achievable!

Here's what your Challenge Pack includes: 6 easy to follow workouts that are ONLY 30 minutes long. They will be intense and challenge you at every level. But don't worry! There is a modifier on the screen to show you how to tone down the intensity (while still getting all the benefits) until you are ready to build up to full intensity.  Upper Fix. Targeted resistance training helps shape your chest, back, shoulders, arms, and abs. Lower Fix. Firm and tone your entire lower body while you blast fat and burn calories. Total Body Cardio Fix. Keep your heart rate up and your metabolism revved high long after the workout is over. Cardio Fix. Get your heart pumping and your body moving as you melt away the pounds. Pilates Fix. Strengthen your core, elongate your muscles, and firm your hips and thighs. Yoga Fix. Improve your balance, flexibility, and strength as you help relax your muscles. What are the containers for??? No counting calories, no tracking ounces....NOPE! These 7 color coded containers and the shakeology shaker cup will give you the right portion sizes!! That way, you won't eat too much or too little....fill them to the top...if it fits....you can eat it!!! Green Container—Vegetables Purple Container—Fruit Red Container—Protein Yellow Container—Carbohydrates Blue Container—Healthy Fats and Cheese 2 Orange Containers—Nuts and Oils Shakeology Shaker Cup—Drink Plus an easy plan to help you succeed: 21 Day Fix Start Here Want immediate results?? This quickstart guide and workout calendar shows you just how simple it is to achieve your weight-loss goals. And 4 FREE BONUS gifts: 21 Day Fix Eating Plan This simple Eating Plan takes you step-by-step through the process and makes portion control so easy, you won't even have to think about it. Enjoy delicious, healthy food without counting calories, and watch the pounds fall off. 3 Day Quick Fix Get beach-ready in 72 hours! This is Autumn's secret weapon for losing weight fast before a competition or photo shoot. Do it during the last 3 days of 21 Day Fix for mind-blowing "after" pictures. Dirty 30 workout 4 rounds of fat-burning exercises help carve out a leaner, stronger physique. 24/7 online support Get extra support and motivation from weight-loss experts and other 21 Day Fix customers. PLUS: A 30-Day Supply of Shakeology—The Healthiest Meal of the Day®.* Simplify your nutrition with the convenient and delicious daily superfood protein shake that helps give you energy for your workouts, reduces junk food cravings, and may help you reach your fitness goals faster. A nutrient-dense combination of antioxidants, phytonutrients, adaptogens, and many other rare ingredients gives your body superfoods you can't get from a normal diet.  Are you ready to do this?!?!? I will support you 100% of the way and we will get the results you want!  My exclusive Beta Test Group starts February 17th....Find me on facebook and private message me!!! OR shoot me an email with any questions at savko.christine@gmail.com!!

Clean Eating Superbowl Appetizers

Since the Superbowl is coming up soon, I thought I would discuss some helpful tips and recipe ideas for the big day!! If you know you are going to a party for a special occasion....plan for it! Decide before you attend if  you will stick to your clean eating or if you will let yourself splurge a little. Everyone is human, so don't feel bad! We all need a "treat" once is awhile to keep us sane!  If you do choose to splurge, let that be your "cheat" meal for the week. But limit it to that meal. Prepare your mindset so that you know you will get right back on track after the party is over! Preparing is half the battle!! But don't worry! There are some ways you can stick to your healthy eating even while attending parties.

Helpful Tips-

Always pre-eat. Don't rely on everything there to be clean, natural & healthy food options. If you eat a small healthy meal before you go, you can spend the majority of the time socializing with others instead of hanging out by the food table. I make sure to drink my shakeology before I go to any party. It keeps me full and my cravings are not nearly as bad!!

Drink lots of water- Keep yourself hydrated (especially if you plan to have a few drinks) and keep your stomach full. If you do choose to have a drink, try and go with something like vodka/water with a splash of lemon/lime. No reason to drink away empty calories!

Load your plate with veggies & fruits- Try and pick a smaller plate, that way you don't feel the need to fill the whole think up. Try to avoid fried foods, creamy dips & chips. Go for the leaner meats like baked chicken and fish.

Now for some clean eating appetizers for a great Superbowl weekend!!!

Clean Eating Sweet & Sour Meatballs

Meatball Ingredients:

3 pounds lean, ground turkey meat

2 tablespoons onion powder

2 tablespoons garlic powder

Glaze Ingredients: 

1 (9 ounce) jar apricot 100% fruit spread, no sugar added

1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon honey

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper, or spray them with a light coat of olive oil using an oil sprayer.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the turkey, onion powder and garlic powder. Mix well.

Using your hands, roll small, walnut sized meatballs and place on a cookie sheet.

Bake for approximately 20-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. A meat thermometer should read between 165-175 degrees F.

While they are in the oven, put all the glaze ingredients into a small pot and warm over low-medium heat. Stir constantly.

When the meatballs are done, put them into a large mixing bowl (please don’t burn yourself!) and pour the glaze over them. Mix gently to coat the meatballs.

Note: If you cannot find apricot fruit spread, pick any flavor you’d like, so long as it’s 100% fruit. It will still be really tasty.

Clean Eating Spinach Dip

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) container low-fat cottage cheese

10 ounce container frozen spinach, thawed

8 ounce can water chestnuts, chopped fine

2 tablespoons onion powder

1 teaspoon dried parsley

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Using a blender, blend the cottage cheese until it is smooth and creamy.

Put the cottage cheese in a large mixing bowl, and add all other ingredients. Stir well.

TexMex Dip

Ingredients:

1 (12 ounce) jar of your favorite salsa, no sugar added

1 (15 ounce) can black olives, chopped

1 (15 ounce) can non-fat, refried beans, no sugar added

3 avocados

Juice of 1 lime

2 large roma tomatoes, chopped

2 teaspoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons onion powder

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, loosely packed

Directions:

Combine the beans and the salsa in a pot and warm while stirring constantly. Once they are warm and well combined, remove from heat and pour the beans into your serving dish.

Make your guacamole using the avocados, lime juice, garlic powder and onion powder. Add salt to taste. Layer the guacamole over the beans.

Top with olives and tomatoes next and finish with the fresh cilantro.

Serve with your favorite, clean corn chips or whole grain crackers.

We all tend to struggle in this area. But, that's why we create support groups...to get each other through the rough times. I hope you have a great Superbowl weekend, whether you watch the game or go to a different party! Feel free to share any other healthy recipes! I would love to hear from you!

What is all the hype about the "21 Day Fix"???

I am SUPER pumped for this new workout routine to be released!!! Why? Because one my my biggest struggles with weight loss is portion control. I can plan healthy meals and cook them, but then I want to eat so much of it!!! Do you ever feel like that??

This 21 day program gives you a nutrition guide that comes with portion controlled containers! How cool is that! It takes the guess work out and makes it so much easier!! Plus you get 30 minute workouts (perfect for squeezing into a busy day), and unlimited support and accountability from me! 

You can do more than one round and have amazing results!! Especially with the right support!

I am starting an exclusive 21 DAY FIX TEST GROUP on February 17th!  This is for anyone who wants to stay motivated, committed and follow through with the program. The only cost is that of the challenge pack which will come with everything you need. The nutrition guide, all the workouts, free shipping & I will support you along the way and be there through every step. I believe you can do this! We will get through together!

To be part of the TEST group sign up for a free account which will make me your free Beachobody coach and I will send you all the details. Or, contact me anytime at savko.christine@gmail.com. This program is going to be EPIC!! We will learn how to correctly portion our healthy foods, do short (but effective!) workouts and have fun!!!

Clean Eating Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls

Let me just say, I love my sweets!! Sometimes, you just need to satisfy those cravings. Instead of indulging in tub of ice cream or a chocolate bar, I would rather have this!! This recipe is awesome and so easy to make. My son loves them too!  They can be a little messy but they are soo worth it! 

Clean Eating Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls

Makes 14

Ingredients

1 cup old-fashioned oats {could certainly use gluten-free if needed}

1/4 cup cocoa {naturally unsweetened}

1/4 cup shredded coconut {unsweetened}

1/2 cup natural peanut butter {look for a jar with peanuts as the ONLY ingredient}

1/4 cup raw honey

Instructions

Stir all dry ingredients together to mix well. Add the wet ingredients and blend well. *Sometimes it's best to use your hands to ensure the ingredients get fully incorporated.

Use a small cookie scoop to get even sized balls. Roll each ball by hand. Chill in fridge until ready to serve.

Cauliflower pizza Crust

Cauliflower pizza Crust
Recipe from Kati Heifners blog!

 Serves 2
Ingredients
1 cup cooked, riced cauliflower
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon crushed garlic
½ teaspoon garlic salt
olive oil (optional) 
pizza sauce, shredded cheese and choice of your toppings

Making the cauliflower dough

Instructions
To "rice" the Cauliflower: Take 1 large head of fresh cauliflower, remove stems and leaves, and chop the florets into chunks. Add to food processor and pulse until it looks like grain. Do not over-do pulse or you will puree it. (If you don't have a food processor, you can grate the whole head with a cheese grater). Place the riced cauliflower into a microwave safe bowl and microwave for 8 minutes. There is no need to add water, as the natural moisture in the cauliflower is enough to cook itself. One large head should produce approximately 3 cups of riced cauliflower. The remainder can be used to make additional pizza crusts immediately, or can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

To Make the Pizza Crust:

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, stir together 1 cup cauliflower, egg and mozzarella. Add oregano, crushed garlic and garlic salt, stir. Transfer to the cookie sheet, and using your hands, pat out into a 9" round. Optional: Brush olive oil over top of mixture to help with browning.
Bake at 450 degrees for 15 minutes.
Remove from oven.



Cauliflower Pizza Crust with lots of veggies

To the crust, add sauce, toppings and cheese. Place under a broiler at high heat just until cheese is melted (approximately 3-4 minutes).
*Note: Toppings need to be precooked since you are only broiling for a few minutes.