FALL IS IN THE AIR - and I love pumpkin!

FALL IS IN THE AIR - and I love pumpkin! 

There is a chill in the air this morning here in Hotlanta and I already miss the heat..... BUT,  I do love the fade of green to the vibrant oranges and yellows of leaves on the trees. The feeling of the brisk air on an afternoon jog. And thought of Halloween and Thanksgiving on the horizon has me wanting to EAT! Pumpkin that is.






Between the pumpkin shakes, lattes, spreads, butters, creamers, donuts, waffles, and breads to name just a few, I can NOT seem to get enough pumpkin. So when I volunteered for my small group to bring a dessert and promised pumpkin, I reflected back in the day, years and years ago I ran across and amazing recipe for a Double Layer Pumpkin Pie. It was always a Thanksgiving hit.  It was no bake and it had TWO layers of yummy goodness. I knew I wanted to replicate it but I knew pie for 15 people just wasn't going to do.  So this is what I came up with-----

for lack of a better name
(I am open to suggestions)


Pumpkin Bowl 
not pie cause it's in a bowl 

I used the Kraft recipe mostly, except I added a tidbit more cool whip and pumpkin cause, well duh, it's good and I can't follow directions.

Double Layer Pumpkin Pie










 






 












Layering: 

Graham Crackers I went safe with regular graham cracker but next time I think I'll live on the edge a little use a ginger snap, snicker doodle cookie or a cinnamon graham cracker. 

Pumpkin Pudding Filling make sure to get it all the way to the edge if you are using a glass bowl. If it looks good it will taste even better. 

Cream Cheese Filling be careful not to get them mixed or you will have more of an orange tinted cream cheese filling and not a nice white layer. 

Graham Crackers - I built them like a mosaic to even did a double layer. 

Then spread the rest of the pumpkin and cream cheese. I added a very thin layer of just cool whip to the very top to make it extra white. Then sprinkled with graham crackers. 

This was done by taking two halves of a graham cracker and rubbing them together at the edges. It spreads like dust. 

This recipe makes a GREAT POTLUCK dish.  
Everyone will love it! 
unless they don't then, they can go fall in a well.... 

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Best of Beachbody Day 2

Day 2 Best of Beachbody
INSANITY 
Cario Abs
Today we did Shaun T's Insanity Cardio Abs.  
The title says it all ---- INSANE!
So we had a little fun with it. A workout should be something you enjoy not dread.
Although I believe Tony Horton's Ab Ripper X is THE hardest, biggest bang for your 15 minute ab workout this one comes in number 1 on the fun scale.

It starts with a 3 minute jog, high knees, twist, jump knee tucks warmup, with is the truly insane part. If you have any energy left you, hit the deck for some C-sit core work. 
Total workout time is just about 20 minutes. 
You will feel this workout in the morning and will be looking forward to it on your calendar!
If you'd like more information let me know. CLICK HERE 
If you're ready to pick up your own copy of SHAUN T'S INSANITY
For now check out our fun video:

Best of Beachbody

Day 1 of The Best of Beachbody:

P90X Ab Ripper Review

Here is a quick video of me and my co-coach Cheryl busting out some P90X Ab Ribber X. 
This ab workout is truly the best ab workout on the market! This was the first time I had done ARX in probably over two months because we were on vacation and truthfully just slacking on the ab specific workouts. 
In the P90X program ARX is done 3 times a week. 
Here is just a quick glimpse of some of the moves. We did this last night I am sore this morning! I can feel it in my lower abs, upper abs and my obliques.
The actual video is 16 minutes but only feels like five. Tony moves quickly from one exercise to the next.  No time for boredom, that's for sure! When I first start out, I can only crank out about 18-20 on each exercise. Tony pushes for 25 each and 40 on the last one, Mason twist. 
This workout is for EVERYONE. If I can do it, anyone can do it! 
You can modify or you can do less than the 25 the rest of the group does. This is great because once you get better you will have room to grow.
Even if you aren't doing or have no plans of doing P90X you still need to check out this insane ab workout! You will NOT find another one like it! 
They have an app for it or you can buy the entire program here.

Can you follow me on FB? Click Here.
I can be your FREE fitness coach! Click Here.

Cruise Confessions

Ok So I posted this on facebook: 

Cruise Confession Time: 
We just got home from a 5 day cruise to Mexico and 2 night stay in New Orleans and everyone's 2nd question after "Did you have a good time?" has been "How much weight did you gain?" 
If I can get 10 likes on this I will share the good, the bad and the horrible.











Well I got 10 likes. Of course after rethinking I wish I would have put 100. I was really bad...
But you know I am human. I went to the dark side a little bit. 


So here goes: 

Ok. So I didn't pre-type so I'm sure I'll just ramble but that’s ok right?  Here goes. I'll start with saying I did drink my Shakeology, but only like 3 out of the 10 days. I started out with really good intentions.          But here goes all the rest of the crap.... Pizza - at least twice - it was a really good pizza with pepperoni and cheese, wine - duh, omelet - extra cheese, French fries, stuffed mushrooms, fried fish fillet - it was pretty fab, baked potato - practically everyday, Miami vice's - by the yard, and in case you are not familiar with a Miami Vice it is frozen refreshing 1/2 Pina Colada 1/2 strawberry daiquiri, I did have some fruit mainly watermelon & cantaloupe- love it, oh sour cream and butter on those baked potatoes, cheese plate, molten lava cake- it was hot and heavenly, duck, shrimp cocktail, lobster bisque - not great like Papadeaux but I scarfed it down anyway, cereal w/ milk, coffee with real cream, bacon & sausage - no it wasn't turkey, seasoned potatoes, Caesar salad, rolls with butter - they were so warm and tasty, they almost melt in your mouth, oh did I mention that the molten lava cake came with ice cream? ya I dumped the ice cream in with the molten lava cake, more wine but I put sprite in it like a spritzer - I hadn't had a soda since Thanksgiving, orange sherbet, oh almost forgot I had TacoHell - crunchwrap supreme and a taco on 2 separate days, I had to throw in one of the buffalo chicken wraps too, ham 'n eggs, pancakes from Ihop with real syrup, oh ya and a waffle too, all star special from waffle house, oooh I had ice cream from the machine thingy chocolate vanilla swirl but no cone - it was a plate and I ate it with a fork - I really wanted it, the best ever- shrimp and oyster po' boy with fries - well me and Ry split it but it was the size of two plates and some rabbit and sausage jambalaya, miller lite - by the buckets, Ham & Turkey sandwich - you wouldn't think so horrible but I had no objection when he slapped a huge pat of butter on it and threw it in the Panini press, oh the best bloody Mary I have ever had - see pic above - it had so much magic in it - olives stuffed with cheese, pimento olives, okra, carrots, scallions, green beans, shrimp, lime wedge, wax pepper, I can not tell you how tasty it was - I just had to have 2, awe man Fuddruckers - never had it before but omg seriously tasty it was a 3rd pound cheese burger with bacon and the works the mayo and catsup was oozing out of the sides, and fries and not to mention some kinda dessert I can't even remember what it was but I know it was good, I think I remember it being a pie of sort - it was shared so that is a point for me - if we were counting points, beef jerky teriyaki - the whole bag and no it wasn't the small one, oh little more wine, more rolls, a prime rib stacker with potato salad and carrot cake really good carrot cake, ah crap and to drive the nail into the coffin and to seriously end the vacation on a good note we had a Red Lobster gift card I won from my work Christmas party and when would we be truly be able to use it if not then.... So did someone say cheesy biscuits? How about 3 cheesy biscuits, stuffed fish, cheesy crab and lobster stuffed mushrooms, another baked potato with fixin's but I did accompany it with a salad - haha with ranch and croutons and one last cheesy biscuit for dessert and left over carrot cake to wrap it up. I found a big cookie in the cupboard from Easter - I seriously contemplated eating it but I dropped it in the trash and took it as a sign.              Ok so next question how much weight did I pack on with all of that? Anyone want to guess?

It's Personal

    I guess I take for granted that I think I'm an open book. I figure because I've told a couple people, blogged about my life, share with my neighbors and some friends, that you know my story. But the truth is you may not. So let me tell you.
    In summer of 2011, I weighed in 187 the most I had weighed in my life, besides when I was 9 months pregnant but it wasn't by much and I had another person in my belly.... With the encouragement of my family and friends, around Thanksgiving 2011, I got the breast reduction surgery that I had needed since my junior high school days. I'm sure my old school mates can attest to that.... It went great. THE best decision I have made for myself (besides marrying my soul mate Ryan Smith). I am so thankful for all of those who led the way with their own surgeries and helped me get over my fear and just go for it (you guys know who you are). After I healed up I knew I wanted more, I wanted the whole package. I was ready.
I heard about this Beachbody thing and wanted it. I wanted a beachbody. I wanted to look better. I wanted to feel better.
I started with Shakeology and Slim in Six. I didn't "try" it, I just went for it. I knew it was was the Healthiest Meal of the Day and I wanted that. I wanted everything it promised. After I lost 20 pounds I realized that there is more to this... this wasn't about me (by the way this is how God works). Aftter listening to awesome mentors, I realized this is about YOU! It's about helping you. Not me. You can do it for you. You have to do it. You have to choose. You have to do the work. You have to put in the effort. You can't give up. You have to sweat. You have to eat right. You have to be open to change. You have to stay positive. I know it's a LOT of work, but I've great news-- You get to FEEL GREAT! You get to be healthy, You can walk up the stairs without getting winded. You get the "you look great" compliments. You get your spouse to give you that little extra attention you've needed. You get go shopping and say YES, this looks great.You get the results. You get the rewards. You get the sucess. You get the confidence, and if you didn't know Confidence is an outfit that looks best on eveyone who wears it!
If I didn't tell you, my friends,about what has helped and worked for me, what has changed my life, what has shifted my thinking, not just about my physical health but about whole health. What kind of friend would I be? Not only has this Beachbody thing helped me lose almost 40 pounds, cured my acid relfux, helped me be able to run and not have to stop after a minute, but it has given me the confidence that I never had and has helped me be able to help so many. I can help you too. Are you ready for a change?  I am "in a hunt to help the most people." If you already have a coach and are on Shakeology stick with it, you got this!
If you need a coach and are ready to take your health back, let me know. I can help. - its a Beachbody thing...  DREAM BIG! WHY NOT YOU!

  

Fish 'N Chips

Fish 'N Chips Night! 

This recipe was  QUICK, DELISH and UNDER 500 calories*!! 

 
2 Sweet Potatoes
4 Pieces of Talapia
1 tbl spoon EEVO
1/2 tbl Zataran's Creole seasoning
1/8 cummin
1/8 paprika    


Sweet Potatoes
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 
Slice sweet potato 
In a zip lock baggie shake EEVO and seasonings 
Spread a single layer on large ccokie sheet  
Bake for about 12 minutes

While it bakes, in same bag place fish and little more seasoning to taste and coat the fish
place in a single layer on a cookie sheet  

Flip the Sweet Potatoes bake for 12 more minutes 
Bake the fish for 6 minutes on each side until it is flakey

Add a bag of Steamables for a complete meal


Calories: 
2 piecesFish: 220 
1 Sweet Potato:  105
1/2 EEVO: 50 
Veggies: 80
Total: 455 
  
 This high protien meal is so filling and feels like cheating. 

 
 *Calories were gathered from my fitness pal. 


 



 
 

Hit the Deck

Hit the Deck

Inspired by Bob Harper's The Biggest Loser last chance workout. This is ridiculously awesome! It takes all the excuses out of working out.

 

• No weights? 
• No program? 
• No idea where to start? 

The # on the Card = The # of Reps 

Face cards = 10

Ace = 11 

Start with half the deck or all the single digit # and work your way up to the entire deck!!

Spades

 Chair lifts. 

1. Squat.
2. Pick up chair.
3. Raise above over head.
4. Set back down gently.

Hearts 
because everyone LOVES Squats!  
1. Reach your bum back as far as you can.
2. Drop it down like you are sitting in a chair. 
3. Paying close attention to keeping the knee behind the toe. 
4. When you come up make sure your weight is on your heels. - wiggle your toes to make sure! 







 
Clubs
Burpees
The mother of all! 
1. Stand up arms straight up.
2. squat down.
3. Jump back into plank.
4. Jump back up to squat.
5. Verticle jump back to start point.    









  

Diamonds  
Standard Push-ups
1. Straight spine.
2. Straight neck.
3. Palms flat.
4. Elbows out.   

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Guest Post: Exercise and Cancer: Managing Treatment Side Effects: By Melanie Bowen

Thank you Melanie Bowen for the great article!

Exercise and Cancer: Managing Treatment Side Effects

Cancer treatment side effects can take a tremendous toll on a patients’ quality of life. Fatigue and reduced functional capacity are among the most troubling ones. Many cancer patients describe them as encumbering or debilitating. Fortunately, exercise can be an effective way to manage these side effects.

Modern medical advancements mean that more patients are surviving cancer than ever before. Each survivor has experienced at least one type of cancer treatment ranging from surgery to radiation, chemotherapy and biotherapy. These aggressive treatments are effective, but they have the potential for serious side effects.

Exercise as a Management Tool

Most patients recognize fatigue as the most devastating side effect of cancer treatment. It is typically most severe while cancer patients receive treatment. However, it can last for months or even years beyond treatment.

Cancer patients may also experience pain, nausea, hair loss, depression and other side effects. Together, these negative and harmful symptoms can culminate in a poor quality of life. Researchers have studied the effects of cancer treatment on quality of life, and they continue to find ways to help patients improve their lives during treatment and afterwards.

Although it may seem contradictory to logic, exercise has been shown to increase energy in patients suffering from fatigue and other side effects. Studies have shown that exercise can be an effective management tool for dealing with tiredness, weakness, stress and other problems associated with cancer treatment. It can also improve functional capacity to give patients more independence. Exercise improves muscle strength, cardiovascular function, circulation, and mental health.

Exercise Goals and Plans

Exercise plans for cancer patients must be well defined. Is the goal to relieve cancer symptoms or treatment side effects? Is it intended to improve functional capacity? Is it necessary to maintain muscle, improve appetite and restore health?

The exercise goals drive the interventions for cancer patients, because different exercises and therapies produce different outcomes. Many patients benefit from a comprehensive exercise program that includes flexibility stretches, strength training and aerobic activity. However, since cancer types and treatments vary, a one-size approach to exercise will not help all patients.

The needs of a breast cancer survivor differ from those of a mesothelioma patient. Exercises for prostate cancer survivors may not work for lung cancer patients. Cancer patients must work with their doctor to develop safe, customized exercise plans.

Periodic evaluations are necessary to determine the effectiveness of a cancer exercise program. An oncology nurse, physical therapist, or trainer usually performs evaluations. They will look at factors like frequency and intensity of exercise as well as the need for progression. Talk to your doctor today and get started on your exercise regimen.

********* Guest Blog, Thank you Melanie Bowen.*********

Take the Challenge

Are you overweight?
Do you feel like there is no hope?
Do you feel like there is too much to lose?
Or do you just want to lose a few pounds and tone up but don't know where to start?
Or do you have health problems due to poor diet and no exercise?

If you think nothing or no one can help you, you need to change your mind frame! You can lose weight. You can be healthy. You can be fit.
I can help you. Team Beachbody can help you. We have thousands of coaches out there that are determined to help.
We work together to help you. It is one day at a time with tons of motivation, inspiration, guidance, and everything you need to succeed at fitness goals.


Why not YOU! Dream Big. 

What are you waiting for? 

No one can do this for YOU. 

YOU have to decide. 
YOU have to commit. 
YOU will succeed! 

You can email me for more information or you can just do it and click the link below!

Win over $100,000!

Take The Beachbody Challenge™ for the motivation you need to get fit and for the chance to win big! Simply complete any Beachbody^® program and share your results with us. You'll receive a FREE T-shirt and a chance to win over $100,000! So what are you waiting for?

Daily Prizes: $500
Monthly Prizes: $1,000
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Plus, share how Shakeology^®, the Beachbody Ultimate Reset^®, or any other Beachbody nutritional product or program helped with your transformation for a chance to win an extra $25,000!

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This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook^®. You understand that you are providing your information to Beachbody^® and not to Facebook^®. The information you provide will only be used for sending subscribers company updates and announcements.

Why not you! Dream Big!

WHY NOT YOU! DREAM BIG!

Hi Everyone!
Hope all is well! As for me, I have been consistent on my daily Shakeology and have been greatly enjoying my workouts. In fact, I have enjoyed them so much that I have enrolled in a Certified Instructor Training class for Turbo Kick this Sunday. I am nervous but very excited!

My mantra for 2013 is "Why not you! Dream Big." I am really looking forward to all the amazing things that will happen this year! To get started right we will do our quarterly 3 Day Shakeology Cleanse Order here now because we start on January 28th and will follow through to the 30th. Order now for time for processing. 

Although weight loss is an awesome side effect, the Shakeology 3 Day Cleanse (learn more here) is meant for those who want to flush out all of that garbage in their system and to ensure your body is running efficiently at maximum health. Removing the toxins and undigested foods will make you feel lighter, more energetic, less bloated and even lose some weight. The last group of 16 active participants lost a total of 82 pounds--- yes 82 pounds that is AWESOME! (an average of 6lbs per person in 3 days!)

This powerful 3 Day Shakeology cleanse is for anyone who wants to:

• Flush out leftover holiday buildup
• Prepare for a new fitness journey
• Overcome a plateau 
• Feel less bloated 
• Dissolve indigestion
• Lose weight for a vacation or wedding
• Lose weight and get back on track after a vacation or holiday
• Someone who is looking to prepare for long term ultimate health

Shakeology comes in three flavors to appeal to all tastes. And is is also available in VEGAN!

Click here for the 3 Day guideline sheet. It is important to stick to it closely for optimal results. 

$$$$ WIN MONEY $$$$ 

Everyone is welcome to participate but to win the monetary award you must adhere to the following guidelines: 

• I must be your coach you can sign up free here. 
• You must be an active member of private facebook group that I will have to add you to so email me marieholcomb@yahoo.com or message me on fb www.tinyurl.com/mariesmith. 
• You must post a photo the first day of your feet on the scale with your current weight or be available 1st thing monday for weigh-in in the commercial department. 
• You must post photos everyday of at least one meal that you consumed for that day. 

Watch this video testimonial

So what happens after the 3 day cleanse? You just busted your butt don't quit now! 
By sticking with Shakeology daily it has proven to:

• Continue Weight loss
• Reduce cravings
• Increase Energy
• Improve digestion and regularity 
• Lower Cholesterol
• Less indigestion 

I hope you join us in this health journey. Sign up for health and fitness coaching for FREE!!! Click here

WHY NOT YOU! DREAM BIG!

** I am not a doctor so please consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions - Thanks! 

Beachbody Super Saturday Recap

Super Saturday recap --- January 5th 2013! You can do this, you deserve it! Period.

Is what you are doing today going to get there?
Are your goals and activities inline with each other? Line them up!
You only get something different by doing something different.
Success club 2014 is a cruise in March! So dream big! And elite is a trip to Italy!
You can do this, you deserve it! Period.
Set Goals-- Make your wishes into GOALS!
Set goals in each area in your life. --- Figure out what really matters to you.
Write it down!
Tell people!
Why? Why do you do what you do. And WHY do you want something different?
Your WHY is what makes you accountable.
Embrace obstacles. They will come you will always have obstacles. Embrace them and grow from them.
Follow your goals by consistently working for them
My Small goals--
Make success club every month.
Two new challenge groups and one new Shakeolgy customer.
Envite new people. Share your story. Grow yourself and Help others reach their goals.
Elite coach webinar on Jan 17th.
Dream Clear. Dream Specific. Dream Public
Achieve
Start today!

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!

Is your New Years Resolution to get healthy?
This short video can change your life!