YOUv2 - fun and simple exercise & gradual nutritional changes

YOUv2 (YOU version 2) is a fun and easy health and fitness program for those just beginning their fitness journey, and eager to find something they'll love doing. There's no confusing choreography or complicated diet - just 4 fun dance routines and 2 sculpting workouts that are only 30 min long. Easy to fit into your day. Plus, a simple approach to eating better. No matter what size or fitness level, they'll find it fun and easy to get moving and develop healthy habits on this 4-week empowering and inspirational journey.

WHAT MAKES YOUv2 UNIQUE?
This program is a simple, gradual approach to help you get moving and create healthy new habits. By focusing on small nutrition changes throughout the month, you can lose the weight and gradually think of food differently without it being overwhelming. This is for those people that do better with making gradual changes over time. 
YOUv2 is not just a way to burn calories. This is a journey of self-discovery where you're encouraged to think about your fitness and nutrition habits, what sets you back, and what it will take to push you forward to a healthier, happier, new version of you.

There are a couple of really cool things about this program that get me really excited :

• THE INTENSIFIER:  If you want to take it up a notch, follow our Intensifier. She wears weighted gloves and makes each move bigger so she burns more calories and gets more out of each routine. (When you're ready, ask me how you can get yours)
• BRING THE KIDS: This program is for everyone so we included a special “kids' channel” feature so you can get all the kids in your life moving with you! Check out this feature exclusively on Beachbody® On Demand.
• MOTIVATIONAL WALL CALENDAR:  It’s more than a calendar, it’s inspirational wall art, packed with positive reinforcement from Leandro and his ladies to keep you motivated throughout the 4 weeks.
• K.I.S.S. (KEEP IT SUPER SIMPLE) & JUST EAT! MEAL guide:  We don’t want you to go on a “diet” or give this “all or nothing.” This plan is an on-ramp to eating better and feeling better. We want you to make small, simple changes over the next 4 weeks so you can stick with them.
• the OH HELLO YOUv2 JOURNAL - Use this special log journal to set goals, track progress, take note of how you’re feeling, and remember the little things that help you reach a goal. After 4 weeks you’ll see how all your daily efforts helped create YOUv2.

If you have fallen a bit off path or just starting out, this just might be the lighthearted and fun way to get back into the ol' routine or start your new healthy lifestyle journey.

For those that have have All Access - you've already got it available to you as of TODAY! Just log in and click on the program. Be sure to check out all the downloadable bonus materials too!\\

For those that aren't set up with All Access, you can get started by messaging me here.  I will get back to you within 24 hours.

I gave my husband full control of my closet for a week......

Happy Long Weekend guys!! 

Are you taking advantage of this long weekend to get some things done around the home?  Or did you go away for a special weekend?  

We have been getting our outside all ready for summer.  Got some new patio furniture and will be doing some gardening later this weekend.  This weekend really is the kick off for the summer isn't it, love it!

I'm outside with my lap top doing up this blog post and it feels wonderful to be outside in the sun right now.

Earlier this week, I had shared another blog post on my Facebook Page about a women who let her husband pick out her clothes for a week.  The blog post was really cute and I became very curious to see what my husband would pick out for me to wear.  

So, we tried it.  I mean it's only a week right? 
I learned a couple things:

A) I have clothes that need to be pitched, not sure why I am keeping them.  
B) I have clothes that I tend to wear regularly for comfort
C) My husband is a practical man (I expected him to pick fancy dresses all week)

Would you do it?  Would you let your hubby pick your clothes for a whole week?  
I gave it a go since it's only a week right?  I wanted to see what he would pick.

First up was MONDAY!!!  So here's how we did this.  He went into the closet always the night before and picked something out.  I didn't say anything to him, and I didn't see what he chose until the morning, after my shower when I grabbed my clothes.

So Sunday night, he had free range of my closet.  I think he was a tad overwhelmed.  He gave it a lot of thought cause he was in there for a while.  He knew I had the day off and would be out and about with our son, and he checked out the temperature. Very thoughtful for him to think of all that.  So this is what he picked:

MONDAY

He picked out casual jeans and a long sleeved black top, perfect for the day I thought, good job hunny!  When I asked him why he picked this out he said because he knew I was doing some running around and would be outside too.  

So far so good.

Next day -- Tuesday -- back to work.  He picked something a tad more "dressy"  He went with these red jeggings, a casual T, and a jean jacket (he's seen me put something like this together before so thought it was pretty safe)

This was the day where I learned a couple things - clothing, and comfort. 

See, these jeggings I have not worn in awhile because they feel tight.  And jeggings are pants that, (you ladies know) you only wear certain weeks of the month.  

The t-shirt was DEEP into my closet and I hadn't worn in years probably because I don't really like it as much as others.  (hence why I say I need to throw some things out)

TUESDAY

When I asked him why he picked this out he said he loves those pants and he thought it all looked good together.  

On to Wednesday 

WEDNESDAY

This was another work day for me.  

He chose a black skirt and blouse.  Okay so I will be honest here, this was the day I didn't want to continue with this experiment.  lol.  I was completely thrown off by the fact that he picked out two things I hadn't worn in FOREVER. 

These two pieces I wouldn't put together but he liked it.  He said I hadn't worn the skirt in awhile and it was going to be a hot day and he picked the top because he hasn't seen me wear that one in awhile either.  This is where I realized I need to get rid of clothes that I don't love anymore.  I hang on to a lot of clothes that I don't need.

On to THURSDAY

THURSDAY

Thursday is a work day so he picked out nice dressy pants and a blouse.  I would have put these two together and I felt happy he chose these.  (I may have also made a comment the night before about picking things I have worn recently instead of fishing from the back of the closet ) lol

FRIDAY

Annnnd Friday!!!  Home with my little guy and out to visit friends and do some errands. 

Silver jeans and a casual top.  I was comfortable in this and it was the perfect outfit for me on a Friday, win for the hubby!

There you have it - a week full of outfits picked by my husband.

So I have learned a couple things about him from this:

He really could care less about what I'm wearing.  He is a practical man.  He was taking in account what I was doing for the day and what the weather was going to be like.  Not what he wanted to dress me in for looks.  I was actually shocked that he didn't pick out more dresses or low cut tops.  I was  surprised that when I really did give him full range of my closet, he chose practical, not things that were flashy and too dressy.  

OH and now I also know that there are things I could be donating !  My closet is really full and I could be cleaning out some of that old stuff.   

Would you try this experiment with your husband?  What do you think he would pick for you?  

If you try this, let me know!  I would love to hear about your experience!

~ Delicious Mexican Weekend ~

Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s unexpected victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5th, 1862. And May 5th every year, the city of Puebla celebrates the occasion with a huge parade. 

If you go, expect floats, food, dancing, music, locals dressed as Mexican and French soldiers reenacting the war.

In the United States, they experience Cinco de Mayo a little bit differently. It’s a day to celebrate the vibrancy of Mexican-American culture, and a big part of the way they celebrate is through the food!

The rich flavours, spices, and sauces of Mexican and Mexican-inspired cuisine Americans enjoy have evolved through the years.  Here are a couple of my favourite Mexican recipes that are healthy and delicious!!!  Dinner, Dessert and snack all right here!  Enjoy some Mexican this weekend!

CHICKEN ENCALADAS

You will need:

• 1 Cup low-sodium organic chicken broth
• 1 tsp unflavored gelatin (preferably from grass-fed cows)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion (approx. 11⁄3 medium onions)
• 1/2 medium jalapeño, seeds and veins removed, chopped (optional)
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt)
• 2 Tbsp. FIXATE Taco Seasoning
• (see separate recipe for FIXATE Taco Seasoning)
• 1 cup all-natural tomato puree
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (preferably GMO-free) + 2 Tbsp. water (combine to make a slurry)
• 4 cooked shredded chicken breast (6-inch) corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar-jack cheese

To Make:

1. Sprinkle broth with gelatin. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until fragrant.
3. Add onion and jalapeño (if desired); cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 5 minutes, or until onion is translucent.
4. Add garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute.
5. Add salt, taco seasoning, tomato puree, and broth. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to medium-low; gently boil, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
6. Add cornstarch slurry; cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute, or until thickened.
7. Combine 2⁄3 cup sauce with chicken in a medium bowl; mix well. Set aside. Preheat oven to 425o F.
8. Place 2⁄3 cup sauce in the bottom of 9 x 9-inch casserole pan. Set aside. Heat medium skillet over medium-high heat.
9. Cook tortillas for 10 seconds on each side. Set aside.
10. Place 1⁄2 Red container of chicken and sauce mixture (11⁄2 oz.) on each tortilla; roll.
11. Place each rolled tortilla, seam-side down, in prepared pan. Top with remaining sauce. Sprinkle each tortilla with 1⁄2 blue container cheddar-jack cheese (approx. 2 Tbsp.).
12. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbling. Enjoy! 

GUACAMOLE

GF V VG PF

You will need:

• 2 cups mashed ripe avocado (approx. 2 large)
• 3/4 cup seeded, chopped Roma tomatoes (approx. 2 medium)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion (approx. 3⁄4 medium onion)
• 1 tbsp. finely grated lime peel (lime zest) (approx. 2 limes)
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (approx. 2 limes)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro 
• 1/2 tsp sea salt (or Himalayan salt) 
• 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper 
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp seeded, chopped jalapeño (approx. 1 medium) (optional) 

To Make:

1. Combine avocado, tomatoes, onion, lime peel, lime juice, cilantro, salt, pepper, oil, and jalapeño (if desired) in a medium bowl; mix well.
2. Serve immediately, or refrigerate, covered tightly, a few hours to let the flavors meld
3. COOK’S NOTE: To keep your guac bright green while storing, press a piece of plastic wrap directly over the top with all air bubbles squeezed out. Since avocados turn brown when exposed to the air, removing the air removes the process of browning!
4. TIP: For a chunkier guacamole, mash avocados with a potato masher or the back of a fork. For a smoother guacamole, use a food processor.

PINA COLADA YOGURT AND FRUIT SALAD

FOR PIÑA COLADA YOGURT

• 1 1/2 cups reduced-fat (2%) plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp pure coconut extract 
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, in juice

FOR FRUIT SALAD:

• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut 
• 1 stalk lemongrass (optional)
• 1 cup of 1⁄2-inch cubed pineapple 
• 1 cup of 1⁄2-inch cubed papaya
• 1 cup of 1⁄2-inch cubed mango
• 1 cup of 1⁄2-inch cubed honeydew melon 

1. Combine yogurt, extract, and pineapple in a medium bowl; mix well. Set aside.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add coconut; cook, tossing frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until coconut is golden brown. Remove from pan immediately, so that it doesn’t scorch. Set aside.
4. Remove woody stem and tough root end of lemongrass (if desired). Peel off outside layer leaving only the tender internal shoot. Slice into rounds, as thin as you can make them. Set aside.
5. Combine pineapple, papaya, mango, and honeydew in a large mixing bowl; toss gently to blend.
6. Garnish with coconut and lemongrass, and serve with a side of Piña Colada Yogurt (1⁄2 cup each).

KALE CHIP NACHOS

You will need:

• Parchment paper Nonstick cooking spray
• 4 cups raw kale, stems and ribs removed and discarded, leaves cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 dash sea salt (or Himalayan salt)
• 12 oz. raw extra-lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp Fixate taco seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (or Himalayan salt)
• 2 medium Roma tomatoes, seeds removed, chopped12 oz. raw extra-lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion1 tbsp FIXATE Taco Seasoning
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained, rinsed
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (juice of 1⁄2 medium lime)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

To Make:

1.  Preheat oven to 400o F.
2. Cut a sheet of parchment paper into four equal squares. Lay parchment
3. paper squares on a large baking sheet; lightly coat with spray. Set aside.
4. Combine kale, oil, and salt in a large bowl; toss gently to blend
5. Evenly arrange kale, in a single layer, on each parchment paper square
6. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, turning halfway through, or until dry and crispy. Set aside.
7. Combine ground beef and taco seasoning in a large mixing bowl; mix with clean hands until just blended. 
8. Cook’s Note: Try not to overmix as that will make the meat tough; knead just enough to combine ingredients into a uniform, homogenous mixture
9. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat; swirling to coat pan
10. Add ground beef mixture and salt; cook, stirring frequently, for 6 to 8 minutes, or until lightly browned and cooked through. Drain and discard any excess fat.
11. Top kale chips evenly with ground beef mixture, tomato, onion, black beans, and cheese.
12. Bake for 3 to 5 minutes, or until everything is warm and melty.
13. Carefully transfer each parchment sheet to a serving plate. Drizzle evenly with lime juice and garnish with cilantro; enjoy!

TIP:  Kale chips can be more fragile than tortilla chips, so you might want to enjoy these nachos with a fork.

VARIATION:  Substitute ground chicken breast or 93% lean ground turkey for ground beef.