Au Revoir 2015, HOLA 2016!

Your 2015, as a song title, GO! Mine? You are my pride by Nora En Pure wink emoticon 

2015 was the year of {{self LOVE}}, intuition, bless and release. 

2015 was a very interesting year.. and I know I don't just speak for myself on this topic. Since becoming a coach, and knowing the importance of reflection to create better tomorrows, I can't help but look back at 2015 as the bittersweet journey it was.

Some of us are experiencing this #BYEFELICIAmentality towards 2015 - the sooner its gone, the better! #Idontblameya

A new year always inspires a tabula rasa state of mind, at least for me. After a whirlwind of a year, I NEED it.

I experienced ups and downs like many of you... from heart breaking moments, moving to my cute little bungalow, to laughs that had me rolled up in ball grasping my stomach with tears streaming down my face.

I had absolute moments of clarity that scared that me, and others that inspired me. Sometimes I didn't know what the heck to feel.

I experienced moments of complete confusion, prayers not quite answered, and that patience was teaching me a fine lesson.

I ALSO had to learn to be a light hearted when I got too serious about life! #ItsNotTheEndOfTheWorld

And one of my biggest lessons? Learning to LISTEN and ACT on my intuition. Fully. No excuses. Little nudges too!

I had to remind myself that on the road of accomplishment, I needed to have FUN along the way! I found that when I wasn't having fun, and I was just chasing a goal for the sole purpose of getting it over with or reaching it, that my thinking was steering me in the wrong direction.

I FINALLY had that moment where it CLICKED, I don't just want SUCCESS, but I want to become, embrace, and attract success by the character and work ethic that is behind it.

Which brought me to my NEXT lesson: {{success is a personal definition}}. I couldn't compare myself or my success to another, talk about a JOY SUCKER.

Success, accomplishment and hard work meant nothing if I wasn't fulfilling myself either. A life without passion just won't work for me.#ILikeTheFIYAAAHHH

I also learned that serving others doesn't mean self sacrificing, but it means serving yourself, and letting yourself overflow unto others.

I faced the tough lesson that I can only help and do so much for others, and at some point that they must do the work themselves. I can love them where they are at, but the best way to help is BE the example - be the BEST me everyday. Even when I don't feel like it.

I had to relearn that I am human too, I make mistakes, I won't impress everyone, and I'm in a constant state of change and learning. That I would disappoint people, get upset for silly things, and trip in public.

So many WONDERFUL lessons that have me smiling and oh so grateful for a funky, colorful, busy, unpredictable 2015.

I am SO excited for 2016, and not taking a lesson for granted. Not taking myself for granted. Not taking how important it is ALWAYS, among and above anything else, to LOVE myself unconditionally.

I hope that you take time before 2015 is over and redefine the moments that you thought defined you, to laugh again at the things that made you smile, and to bring meaning to the tougher times.

You got this life, SO LIVE IT!

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{My Gift to YOU} : The Gift of Health and Fitness

It's hard to not be confused when it comes to eating right, losing weight, and getting healthy. With all the fad diets, "cures", magic pills and strange powder you can sprinkle on your cheetohs, it's a jungle out there.

But I'm here to bring you back to basics, what works, and how you can maintain that lifestyle from here till you're old and wrinkly. 

I was like you scouring the internet for ANSWERS, overweight and sick and tired of being just that. I wanted to feel GREAT, look SEXY in my own clothes, and have a strong, sculpted, lean and curvy body. I didn't want to look like a body builder, and I REALLY didn't want to look chubby.

So I got started.... and the first place I got started was NUTRITION.

*click to enlarge* 
Getting FIT and Healthy Steps:

1. Understand the 70/20/10 rule. 
70% of your results WILL be from what you eat, your nutrition is KEY. You can't out exercise a bad diet, and one clean meal won't make you skinny or strong. 20% of your results will be your workouts, your workouts matter, so squeeze every rep and push past each limiting belief! 10% of your results will be due to genetics. If you got a big ole booty like me, you can tone it, lose some of it, but you probably won't be able to change a few things. I can't change that I have shorter legs and a longer torso. *Eat clean diet says its 10% genetics, 10% workouts and 80% nutrition, either or... but they all matter!


2. SET REALISTIC expectations and have GOALS!
Be realistic--losing weight will take time. It's not an overnight deal. It takes about 8 weeks for you to see results, and 12 for everyone else (sometimes less). Have a 3 month goal, 6 month goal, 9 month goal and 12 month goal, never stop reaching for them! Put your workout calendar up in your house, on your phone, or somewhere you can see it to stay on track! Get a friend to join you!

3. One CHEAT meal a WEEK/EAT CLEAN
Back to nutrition--you get ONE cheat meal a week, pick a day, and WORK FOR IT. You don't get a cheat meal unless you EARN it. I like mine on Sundays or Saturday and it's usually In-n-Out! Visit my Eat Clean Tabs up top to learn more and check out this blog article I wrote here! about eating 5 smaller meals a day vs. the 3 meal a day myth! Buy the Eat Clean Diet Recharged by Tosca Reno and start getting brushed up on Health 101! The BEST and most basic introduction to eating clean and start feeling great! You will NEED this!

4. Pick a Workout Schedule to Follow
You can't expect to go to the gym and walk around wondering what to do if you don't have a plan or some idea of what you are suppose to be doing. Muscle confusion is KEY, if your muscles start to remember the moves and reps you do, your body will eventually plateau and you won't see the results. You're going to need a good mix of cardio and weight lifting to really burn the fat. While I'm NOT a personal trainer, I have done MANY at home workout programs that have taught me a lot about muscle confusion, burning fat faster, etc. I suggest you go to the tab at the top that says "Join the Bombshell Challenge" and fill out the form so I can help you identify the BEST workout for you!


5. CONTACT ME!
The reason I have this as the LAST step is because you can do steps 1-4 and do great, but MOST people fall off after a while (some may last a year or month) and I don't want that to be you! I think I've missed one week of workouts in the last three years and I've seen amazing results because I have accountability and people surrounding me who SUPPORT my goals! Theres nothing better than being around people who GET IT and want to see you succeed, and that's what I want for YOU. Let me help you on this journey, and I promise you won't ever want to go back to your old life style. It's time to change, are you ready? CONTACT ME NOW! or email me at fromflabtofabfitness@gmail.com 

I would LOVE to chat with you personally and have you assign me as your FREE health and fitness accountability partner (<<click there). As a Beachbody coach, it's my passion to help people reach their highest potential and wildest dreams (as I've done and continually do).

What you can expect from me as your coach:

• A welcome letter, and a short introduction of how I got started! 
• We will identify and review your goals
• The best route to reach your goals effectively and efficiently
• We will go over nutrition, eating clean and how to start living a CLEAN life
• Getting you involved in Accountability groups where people like you can gather to ask questions and learn from one another
• Tips, resources and advice to keep you on track and expand your knowledge of a health and fit lifestyle!

This isn't a quick fix route, it's not a short cut, it's the REAL deal. If you're SERIOUS and READY to COMMIT to working out, eating clean, and having a healthier lifestyle including a better attitude, mind set, and vision for you future... let's get going. Your limitless potential lies just beyond the doubts holding you back. You're RIGHT THERE. You CAN do this. Let's GO!

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Holiday Workout Schedule

Some #FunFacts that you may relate to! 

Fact. I don't and will not count calories. Sure, I’ll once in a while track the basic macros, but I will not make calorie counting apart of my health and fitness ritual. I know that it works for some, but for me its like obsessing over checking the scale each morning. 

Another Fact. I prefer counting containers over anything. It’s easy. They’re color coded based on proteins, veggies, fats, fruits, and so on and so forth and already portioned out. It’s simple. And they’re cute. ;-) 

Anotherrrrr fact. I’ve shared my T25, 21 Day Fix and other results. These programs have always been the best, fastest way for me to get accountable to my fitness goals. 

Last FACT. I LOVE to eat. Like a lot. After one meal, I usually know what I’ll have next because I do my best to keep the 21 Day Fix meal plan(s) and containers close by so I can stay consistent with my results. 

There’s about 7 (yes, SEVEN) weeks left of this year… #holyYOWZA #WhereDidTheTimeGo and you could either spend it back peddling by letting yourself slip a little here… (holiday work parties) and a little there (having Thanksgiving 3x in one weekend, you know who you are)…

OR 

…you could set some really freakin awesome goals WITH me to end the next 7 weeks healthier than when started the beginning of this year. 

I’m a future thinker, in fact, its my strongest characteristic. While I’m ALL for enjoying the parties, the turkey, the champagne, and snuggling, I’m also all about RESULTS. 

I know that a few excuses compounded over time got me 20 pounds heavier than I am now. And yes, you may shrug and say thats not much but when you stand at 5’2” — it all counts. 

And it ALL counts right now. 

Now, if you’re not serious about it, thats fine too. I want to coach those who ARE serious. Those who don’t need a January 1st to hit the ground running. Those who are pretty much fed up with where they are now and don't need a fancy Turkey dinner to solidify it. 

#JussssSayin

So it’s easy. You spend the next 6 weeks with ME. Doing the program WITH me and a few other awesome women in a private online Facebook group with daily check ins, heathy holiday recipes, fitness tips, and support so when you reach for that 2nd cookie, we’re here to remind you why you got started. 

For some of you - it may be about balance and you’re at your goal almost, so you just crave the group support.

And for others - it may be that you need to make a drastic change. That the holidays wont be an excuse and if you can conquer this time of year, anything else is a piece of cake… (minus the cake). 

Sound like something you are ready for? Apply HERE: http://abbymaried.blogspot.com/p/join-bombshell-challenge.html

Oh and YES, that dinner in the picture was amazing! Bison meatballs on top of a bed of zucchini / sweet potato noodles with arugula salad and baby potatoes. YES, thats how I eat on the meal plan during our 6 weeks ;-) 

CIAO! 

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Dear Abby: How Are You SO Happy? Life's Love Letter

Well here it is… 11:45pm on Monday night. I found myself a little fascinated with emotions today, and needed some serious meditation to pull me back to center. I haven’t meditated in about a week, and I can always tell when I’m ‘off’ so to speak. Im also working on using inspiring positive words… i.e. fascinated vs. frustrated. Words and language are so powerful. I would rather use them as tools of understanding than weapons of indifference. 

Meditation, it does WONDERS. It’s such a sacred time to explore your emotions, redefine them, focus on the good and abundance in your life, ease tension, worry and anxiety. A time to reflect on your day, week and areas of your life that may feel lopsided. Its a time to send love and light to those who need it, whether you personally know them or sending out vibrations of healing for the world. 

I think the coolest thing about meditation is that its a practice of your own. Like yoga. It’s the journey of the self through the self. 

Ok before I go off on a spiritual tangent, I want to share something profound. It’s SO profound, that if you do it too, you could simply change the course of your life. But you could also easily shrug it off and not do it, and stay on whatever path you’re currently traveling. 

Although I LOVE where Im at because Ive worked my booty off to get here, I never full satiate the hunger for a better tomorrow by giving my TODAY ALL I can. I mean if we only HAVE today and this moment, and we fully embrace it by doing the best we can, tomorrow, if access granted, and repeated mantra implemented, will be JUST as KICK ASS, if not MORE SO!

Cool huh?

Ok, onto the good stuff. 

I’ve had a LOT of beautiful souls lately tell me how their life - whether that be in love and relationships, health and physical body, goals and career, purpose and direction - feel confused, their truth distorted and unsure of their next step. 

To be blunt without the fancy verbiage, some of its betrayal among best friends and lovers, poor eating habits or body image issues resulting in anorexia, bulimia, self loathing, unfulfilled at work and taking it out on others, dealing with injuries or pain… the list goes on. 

Part of what I do as a Beachbody coach is encourage people, love them and meet them where they’re at, but also to show them that THEY are their KEY to UNLOCKING their future. 

It can be a challenging role at times, while I also have to do so for myself. However, the privilege to walk and face some of those battles first and share my experiences have given me courage to share a method that has greatly improved my life. 

I often get asked, ‘Abby, how the HECK are you SO happy?!’ Truth be told peeps, it wasn’t ALWAYS this way. But I’ve also never been one to sulk in self pity when life offers a kick ass lemonade stand. Bittersweet. 

So this method is simple. We all know and have experienced pain right? It can be the very thing that unites us, but its not meant to hold us hostage and bind us by staying in it. We can either choose a life of pleasure or pain, what we focus on, we will get. 

So if you want to shift your focus from the current pains in your life to points of pleasure, I have a little call to action for you. 

Again, simple to do, easy not to do. Life changing, YES. But remember, time takes TIME. And its always on time. So be purposeful in this exercise. 

Ready for it? Drumroll, please ;-)

OK. SO. Grab a pen and paper, or your laptop, or the notes section in your phone. 

Start the letter as such, 

Dear _Your Name_, 

The last five years have been beautiful. … 

And continue. Your purpose here is to write yourself the most beautiful, heart felt, inspiring, insightful letter TO you FROM you! Ill share mine below so you can get an idea of how I went about it. 

But I can bet, after reading it, you’ll feel inspired, moved, direction, excited, certain and empowered to make whatever change you are needing to make. 

Do this FOR you. What would your future self tell you five years from now? What advice? What praise? What memories? 

I’m proud of you for! Remember when? You really did it. You are so amazing. Your dreams came true. Keep going, and don't give up. Help others. 

Once you start writing, start remembering, start feeling, start appreciating, start laughing, start crying, start dreaming — you are moving towards a pleasure and abundance focused life. 

Your pain isn’t to your demise sweet friends, its to your understanding of human compassion and purpose. 

Happiness is a choice, regardless of circumstances. When you are faced with difficult times, read this letter to yourself. 

There’s a strength already inside of you, all you have to do is tap into it. Tap into you. 

If you feel bold enough to share, post some of your love letter below. Bravery is bold, believing in yourself is beautiful. 

CIAO! 

Dedication: YOU. 

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Holiday Humbug or Holiday Hustle? FREE Health & Fitness Challenge Support Group

I could start this blog in a very cliche way and share that the average weight gain during Thanksgiving and the New Year fluctuates between 7-10lbs -- BUTTTT I think we're all pretty damn aware that the Holiday season brings about a layer of holiday wrapping we don't exactly look forward to unwrapping in the early months of the New Year.

So with stating the obvious, let me first say that this time last year I was attempting (key word: attempting) to start my competition training to do bikini NPC.

I thought to myself, 'WHY let the Holidays dictate WHEN I decide to hit my goals?!'

And I STILL have that mindset. And I STILL have that goal. But guess what? Like any normal person, I QUIT! I decided it wasn't for me, saying that I loved FOOD TOO MUCH!

Talk about about BAH-HUM-BUG! I realized however, that you CAN still LOVE food (and even more so) while getting in amazing shape.

Now that I'm MORE aware of what it REALLY takes to take your health and fitness to the next level, I feel more prepared than ever to share that WITH YOU!

But our starting place isn't exactly the same. When I got started with this competition prep, I had been using Beachbody at home workout programs for the last 4 years.

And DAMN proud of that because they got me into the BEST shape of my life!

But there's that one ingredient we all try to maneuver around when it comes to seeing results...

Our eating habits. 

Diet. 

Nutritional plan.

Or lack there of. 

WhatEVAH you want to call it is fine, but it's the key to unlock the potential of a nice, chiseled, toned, sexy body that most of us crave.

And lemme just say... if I had to pick ONE program that could prepare me the BEST for learning to meal prep, plan and portion out my meals, it was the 21 Day Fix Extreme and 21 Day Fix.

Whether you've browsed my blog before or this is your first time, the 21 Day Fix is a comprehensive, no nonsense, hit it where it counts, kinda program.

WHY YOU (AND I) WANT TO DO IT?: 

Your (Autumn Calabrese) trainer won't cost an arm and leg. 

Whether you're like me and want to work your way up to a competition. 

OR you just want to look great all year round. 

OR you're tired of using the end of the year as an excuse for why you got fluffy.

OR you're ready to get serious about your goals BUT... 

You really NEED the guidance, accountability, and support of a COACH.... 

Well, then. You are in FAVOR ;-) I've done this program multiple times. That's why I make a GREAT coach and guide while you're on your journey to hit your goals.

Keep reading if you want to JOIN ME in doing the program while having my support and daily check ins.

And here's a piece of solid advice for you: You can use this program again and again and again and again. 

That's the reason I ALWAYS come back to it. I bought it once and use it again. And Again. And again.

And I get results EVERY TIME (every time I stick to it consistently, I might add).

Now we could use the holidays as AN EXCUSE as to WHY we didn't reach our goals or we can make it OUR REASON TO HIT OUR GOALS!

I would rather avoid the hum-bug of excuses because I know that life happens -- holidays, birthdays, weddings, travel, you name it.

If I can get the fittest, healthiest I've ever been during the Holidays, I can do ANYTHING.

Imagine that confident boost! 

So the question for you is.... ARE YOU WITH ME?

If you are then check it. Holiday Hustler. ;-) 

What You Get: 

• ME, as your FREE Beachbody Coach to help guide and keep you accountable through the rest of the year (and with the choice to keep it up through 2016!) 
• Goal Setting Session via 30 minute phone call or video chat 
• Daily Check-Ins via PRIVATE Facebook Group OR Daily Check Ins via Emails with ME
• Guidance and help creating your own PERSONAL meal plan according to your goals and tastebuds 
• 21 Day workout schedule with a variety of workouts to target ALL areas! 
• Option to get a 3 Day Cleanse to either kick off or finish with your new workout program
• 30 Day Supply of Shakeology, a health meal replacement shake that delivers over 70 superfoods, antioxidants and vitamins to increase your results and curb bad cravings. 
• ...& MORE! 

WHERE DO I GET IT? 

The group is held in a private online Facebook group, only visible to the members involved. So anything you share is totally confidential. 

Once you've ordered your 21 Day Fix Challenge Pack (fancy for; bundled deal of 21 Day Fix Workout and Meal Plan and 30 day Shakeology supply) you will be added into the group.

Just be sure you use the LINK BELOW and contact ME so we can get you started and work on those GOALS!

Don't have Facebook? No problem, you can stay in touch with me via cell, and email. We can also cheer each other on Instagram if you have that too. 

Not only that, but it's on sale this month for $140 << normally Shakeology is $130 alone, and you get it WITH your challenge pack, so you're practically stealing from us. Thanks. 

YOU HAVE 4 OPTIONS: Based on your goals, and how much you want to invest in yourself! 

A few things to keep in mind while proceeding: 

• 21 Day Fix is the FIRST program and suggested for beginners, AND/OR those who haven't worked out in a while. 

• 21 Day Fix Extreme is for 21 Day Fix Graduates, AND/OR those who workout and are ready for the next challenge. 

• You can choose between 5 flavors of Shakeology or do a combination for your 30 day supply.

• The 3 Day Cleanse is an option if you want to increase your results or have a bigger weight loss goal. I've done the 3 Day Cleanse after I finished the 21 Day Fix and lost an additional 5 pounds! 

Not sure which is better for you, 21 Day Fix or 21 Day Fix Extreme? Watch this: 

To order your 21 DAY FIX CHALLENGE PACK CLICK HERE!

(Includes 21 Day Fix workout program/schedule, meal plan, 30 Day Supply of Shakeology and access to the support group/daily check in emails/my coaching services)

To order your 21 DAY FIX CHALLENGE PACK WITH THE 3 DAY CLEANSE CLICK HERE!

(Includes 21 Day Fix workout program/schedule, meal plan, 30 Day Supply of Shakeology, 3 Day Cleanse and access to the support group/daily check in emails/my coaching services)

To order your 21 DAY FIX EXTREME CHALLENGE PACK CLICK HERE!

(Includes 21 Day Fix EXTREME workout program/schedule, meal plan, 30 Day Supply of Shakeology and access to the support group/daily check in emails/my coaching services)

To order your 21 DAY FIX EXTREME CHALLENGE PACK WITH THE 3 DAY CLEASE CLICK HERE!

(Includes 21 Day Fix EXTREME workout program/schedule, meal plan, 30 Day Supply of Shakeology, 3 Day Cleanse and access to the support group/daily check in emails/my coaching services)

We officially start November 30th, but the group is OPEN NOW to give you a head start, sneak peaks on recipes and meal plans, as well as some other pre-season goodies to get you excited for this new CHANGE! 

See you ladies soon! <3

I CANT WAIT to do THIS again!

CIAO!

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Pucker Up Buttercup, My Favorite Fall Lip Stains

Well hello fabulous ladies... EEEK. The last time I was on this bad boy was the 1st of September. So much has changed in good ways and bad. The 'bad' I speak of is all just lessons to learn, and boy, have I LEARNED!

Life is quite the roller coaster isn't it? I find that its most enjoyable when your hands are up, and your thrilled for all the highs and lows.

There's always blessings in lessons right? I have some good blog posts in the works for you, and I'm just as excited to share them... So be on the look out. In the next few weeks I'll be sharing a personal transformation I've embarked on, but currently I'm still in the midst of it all. So I want to share when my head is a bit more clear. If ya know what I mean.

BUT... for now... lets get on the good stuff. The girly stuff. The stuff we love. OH, the STUFF!

I'm not sure when I fell in love with lip stains, all I know is that I'm a FAN, a big big FAN. Like probably over 10 lip stains in my makeup bag and cubby right now.

I find that beautiful colored lips pull the face together quite nicely, it has a way of highlighting the eyes and bringing the focal point of your wonderful smile to the forefront.

In simple terms, the right colored lip stain can make you go from 'BASIC' to 'DAMN I'm FINE'  and all the guys be like 'CAN I GET A KISS?' and you're like 'NAH, I only kiss my dogs!'

Err... maybe that's just me??? I would rather kiss my dogs.

So pucker up buttercups! After trying MANYYYYY lip stains, these few are my favorite for fall!

1. Revlon Color Stay Ultimate - goes on smooth and silky, I suggest grabbing a shiny chapstick to go on top and seal the deal. Otherwise it provides a very matte look, and I LOVE the deep color of "Brilliant Bordeaux" 

2. Maybelline Super Stay 24 Hour Color - color and a smooth chapstick, I LOVE the color "Very Cranberry" for a flirty pink and purple hue. Not too dark, and not too light. 

3. Maybelline Super Stay 14 Hour Lip Stick - I added in ONE lipstick nude option because lets face it, nude is always in. "Never Ending Nude" is a great shade! 

4. Younique Stiff Upper Lip - I LOVE these as TRUE lip stains like highlighters. These are awesome, the color I enjoy the most is "Mood Struck" 

5. Revlon Color Stay Overtime - I LOVE that this is a matte finish with a lip gloss option, the gloss gives that perfect shiny fall lip. Color of choice: "Relentless Raisin"

6. Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick - In 'Amore' while I LOVE this color, I think the other lip stains mentioned above provide just as good of coverage for a fraction of the cost. But I wanted to provide one high end lip color for those of you who shop Ulta or Sephora! 

In the top left picture I'm sporting #1, In the middle photo I'm sporting #2, and in the bottom photo I'm wearing #4 with a light red gloss on top! 

I hope that helps, I know there's tons of you who ask my favorite colors for lips. Sometimes its good to get a little Van Gogh with that face and mix those colors up. I love finding the perfect shade with two different colors. 

Until next time <3 

CIAO! 

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You Are A Creator .. But What Is MY Purpose?

Hello friends :) Its been a  minute. I always seem to make my blogging comeback with a soulful approach to explain what goes on behind the scenes here at Wizard of Oz/Abby .. so I want to share a topic thats been burning in my heart and soul in hopes that I can reach you on a much deeper level that will leave you feeling elated. Journey with me from the depth of your heart to the height of your soul. So read on.

          ________________________________________________________________

Five years ago I picked up the first personal growth book that would start me on a path to self betterment. Little did I know this path of self growth and development would lead to learning about my spiritual self, what I consider my real self.

How I got there was quite unconventional considering I grew up going to church every Sunday and felt torn between religion and faith. Funny to think that BUSINESS led me to spirituality...

All the accolades of someones life are wonderful achievements, but what lies under that strive for potential? It's the character behind the social masks we wear. The pure curiosity for fulfillment, to grow, change, explore, imagine, create, dream.

In my eyes, we're all souls bouncing around this Earth  in search of physical creations manifested through our thoughts, desires, beliefs and actions. Through our manifested experiences we create the life we're currently experiencing.. and the best part about it? We can actually choose to interpret or re-create different experiences.

BUT ... Before I realized this.. before my journey started 5 years ago, I felt like I was searching in the dark for a set of matches and a candle, blind. The determination was there and when I finally found the match and lit it, my surroundings illuminated.

For the last five years of this journey I have come to personally uncover the themes that stand boldly in front of the others... the ying/yang, ebb and flow, give and take of what I consider our life experiences. The sacrifice in achievement, risk in love, going sky diving even if you're afraid of heights kind of thing.

I've come to accept this exchange of value, there's always a choice, and that choice is all our own.

What do we believe? What do we WANT to believe in? What do we desire? What are we willing to risk on the journey? 

                      ________________________________________________________

On this journey of purpose and self discovery, I find that concentrating on positive life experiences is KEY.

This intent to manifest the life you imagine will encourage synchronicities... aka 'coincidences'...

These little nudges are the signs along the road reading 'Keep going, you're getting there!" ... when you're thinking of your mom and she calls you, when you're dreaming of cake and its brought into work (seriously... that happens... HA!), when you need to move and the right place crops up.

                                          And there's that fickle topic of PURPOSE...                                                

Purpose is a funny thing isn't it? I say fickle because the philosophy behind purpose is extensive and opinionated. As it should be!

When I started to dive into personal growth through audio, books, seminars, countless hours of searching the internet, soulful phone calls with friends all over North America, I kept asking myself 'What in heavens name am I good at.. what is my purpose here?!"

While being totally honest here and bearing my soul to a computer screen, hoping that I make a connection on the other side, the sad pitiful answer I use to FEED on was 'Well, I'm not really good at anything...'

I held onto that for a loooonnggggggggg time. I was certainly GOOD at things, SURE... but purpose felt like the curtains had to be drawn back as I tap dance on the stage of life bearing one specific gift. And it sure as hell aint tap dancin' (although I wish I remembered the little bit I learned as a kid).

I remember feeling the lowest of lows. I stared at myself in the mirror. Lit candles. Laid on the ground and meditated. I had a feeling my purpose wasn't going to be handed to me or painted on a sign somewhere.

I prayed to God/the Universe (whatever you want to call it... I find that this omnipotent power goes by many names) to help me figure this out.

I realized I had to create it. How freeing. It's a choice, just like any other. Passion and purpose go hand in hand. So I asked myself a series of questions...

'what passions are rooted within the realms of my heart and soul?' ... ok maybe not THAT eloquently... ;-) 

'I have MANY passions, but which one will I choose to use during this time frame to not only fulfill me personally, but leave a legacy to impact others?'

'At the end of each day, what is the desired feeling I want to have about what I'm creating or doing?'

Many people are so quick to race to the answer, when the power of direction can lie in the question. 

When I learned THAT, I learned to ask better questions. Therefore, I started to get better answers.

 I started to work WITH myself instead of against myself. 

Do I get a gold star everyday for it? No. Some days are still harder than others... but they key to the lock is having the belief I create the life I want to experience. 

Learning to love myself unconditionally has been the most rewarding journey of all... because through that love comes creation and positive energy that will serve me IN purpose and ON purpose. 

To save this post from dragging on, I will conclude it here. If you found this helpful and want more of it, post below, send me a message or a virtual high five in the form on the right that pops up. 

I'm feeling a lot like Alice in Wonderland going down the rabbit hole of spirituality, so I'm going to hop onto the next task. 

Namaste folks <3 

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Why I Prefer THIS Pre-Workout OVER Top BRANDS! Arnold Palmer Pre-Workout, It's Fit'oClock Somewhere!

It's Fit'O'Clock Somewhere....

Want to know my FAV pre-workout cocktail?

Two Words: Arnold. Palmer.

And this is coming from a girl who's tried a LOT of pre-workouts... from old school Jack3d to C4, White Flood, and Jym...

Whatcha Need:

> 1-2 scoops of Energy and Endurance (Beachbody's pre workout)
> Brewed cold green tea
> And I personally like to add cold brewed Early Grey Morning tea (the full max of caffeine please)

Shake real well.

Drink real slow.

P.S. Energy and Endurance (commonly referred to as "E&E") is a much more natural option, without the jitters.

No artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives.
No high-risk or untested ingredients.


               

E&E Energy and Endurance features a proprietary blend of:

• Advanced nitric oxide boosters to help speed more nutrients and oxygen to your muscles for better performance.*
• Natural energizers to help increase energy production and focus to maximize your workout.*
• Amino acids to help promote muscular energy and overall workout performance.*
• Electrolytes to help fight dehydration and support optimal muscle function.*
• Essential B vitamins to promote a strong metabolism to provide energy so you can burn fat.*
• Stevia for natural, zero-calorie sweetness.

The ingredients are HERE.

Want to try it or be apart of a 30 Day Fitness Challenge with me? APPLY HERE! 

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Permanent Eye Brows - Review

            

Hi lovely ladies! I hope you all are doing FABULOUS... and if not, it's all about mind set. You're already fabulous, no need to try so hard. Just smile, show up and never give up! Simple!

Ok, so today on the blog... I've got a topic that Ive been wanting to share with you all for some time, but I've waited till post move. Yes, thats right. I moved, and I LOVE where I'm living now. My place is the cutest bungalow and my furry kids are enjoying the new digs, although no digging is allowed.

Let me start by saying, I HAVE eyebrows... they're just grey, sparse (ish) and I've always kind of of had a thing for strong eyebrow shape. Like many of you, I over plucked in my earlier days because I was concerned they were TOO busy. Pfft, and now?! Now the bushier the better! Oh if only I could go back to my bushy days.

I had fuller brows in 6th grade and, sadly just went to town with the tweezers and they never really grew back. Only a little bit with a few ointments, but what I was really after was fullness, beautiful shape and darker shade.

My natural hair color is an ash brown, like that trendy grey thats been in.  That's me naturally I believe, but then again, who knows with how many times I've changed my hair color in the last 5 years. Any other serial colorists out there? AKA what I prefer to call us, "UNICORNS" ;-)

So when my girlfriend told me about her latest experience with permanent eye brow coloring/tattooing, I wanted to see how LEGIT the results were.

I mean... tattooing your foot is one thing, but tatting your face is a different ball game. You want to be sure that you are 100% committed, did your research, and feel confident that its what you want long term as well.

So after seeing her results, and how much she loved taking one step out of the getting ready process, I was ALL EARS ... or ALL eye brows ;-) ... please tell me you love all my jokes! They crack me up.

Not only that, but imagine waking up and seeing your face shape even more highlighted because your brows are on point. Im a firm believer that your brows can make or break your face.

You've seen angry brows right? What about those that are far apart (kinda like mine)? Or the ones that are sharp edged? Or the tadpoles? We've seen em all, and its the difference between looking like a pulled together Megan Fox or straight from the trailer, overalls, and straw in the hair look...

So I went to see Daria up in Beverly Hills after obsessing (like every night) over the many transformations she shares on her online website and portfolio. She's an eye brow genius... oh and super pretty and sweet to boot.

I looked over her pre-care, and post - care while also reviewing other helpful info on her website. Which is HERE!

Some people may think thats a pretty penny to pay for eye brows, I think its an investment into having the look I want all day, all night. I personally am 100% satisfied and in love with my new brows.

The healing process was a BREEZE. As long as you follow her directions of no heavy sweating, no direct sunlight or tanning, avoid alcohol, no makeup, no water or lotions on the brows, etc. then you will heal just fine.

YES, they were definitely darker after the first week, but by the end of the first 10 days, my brows healed completely and the minimal scabbing was done. My new brows emerged and I fell in love! I have one touch up in July just to solidify the color, so I look forward to having them a bit darker.

Daria matched the perfect color, did the brow shape just as I would (and even better!!), and was very calm, and together.

If you have been thinking of permanent eye brows and you are in Southern California, I highly recommend checking out Daria's work. And NO, I'm not endorsed, I do NOT get a discount, so this is all authentic recommendations.

If you aren't in the area, I suggest looking for artists that use the same or similar technique as Daria for the most natural look. She prides herself on whats called manual micro stroking so that it looks just like hair. And I'm not kidding ladies, it looks real even when Im up close checking out my brows in the mirror.

If you have any questions please post below! Also check out my YT video for more of my experience =) If you've had your brows done and they look great, post where you got them done below so other women can benefit in YOUR area! Women helping women, one eyebrow at a time.

CIAO Bellas!

**EDIT:

I just got my brows touched up and I LOVEEE <3 She did a great job and I'm excited for the finished result.

Also, see those sexy lashes? My friend and lash expert, Kristen Fernandez does them in LA if you are around Studio City! Here are my results! Go check out Beauty Boutique LA 

Thank you Kris! <3 XO!

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Dirty Diet? Clean It Up! Free 7 Day Eat Clean Accountability Group!

A few years ago I heard of the ‘Eat Clean Diet’ — and I’ll be honest, the name behooved me (great word, right?!) — I imagine cleaning supplies and apples. I know, sounds a little ridiculous but I was SO NEW to the world of eating right… I had a basic understanding that laid a shaky foundation to what I thought was a GOOD diet. 

I was eating brownies on the weekends, soda through out the week (mind you I thought I was doing the right thing by getting Diet Dr. Pepper, mmkkkayyyy. not good peeps, not good!), and spaghetti was cheap, easy and on the menu once a week. YIKES. 

So after putting on 20lbs of unwanted, ugly weight, my self esteem was starting to crash. The food I was eating made me moody, and I was intimidated to wear shorts in the heat of Florida summers at a calming 95 degrees. Going to Target to try on bikinis? Forget about it! Mirrors felt unforgiving.

That was no way to live. So I decided to go on the internet and do some research to see what solutions I could come up with.

&& I don’t know about you reading this, but if you look at the Standard American Diet — AKA SAD — its literally just that SAD. It’s a far cry from what we REALLY need to not just survive, but THRIVE!!

So I decided to do a little research, only to discover that there were so many dietary options, fads, lifestyles, great information, crappy information, diet pills galore, and quick fixes. 

To say it was overwhelming would be a huge understatement. I immediately felt intimidated, frustrated and wondered how I was going to get started with so many conflicting ideologies. I felt frustrated with the FDA after watching a few (ok a TON) of documentaries about America’s agriculture and how our food was being made.

This disgust led me to passionately pursue the TRUTH among lies! I wanted to know how I was going to FEEL good again! I was tired of being overweight, feeling like a moody little brat, and having sugar crashes every night due to my sugar high addiction.

So when I did my research on cleaning up our diets with whole foods, raw foods, and non processed options, I started to feel a light at the end of the tunnel.

There are SO many diseases and health ailments that are directly correlated to what we eat, ‘let food be thy medicine’ - Hippocrates

& I was worried that if I didnt take action soon, I would be one of those that faced a health issue that would last a lifetime.

And maybe YOU are already there, but there’s STILL hope. And that’s where this event page and invite comes in.. .whether you are trying to crawl your way out of years of food abuse, or you are just starting to get your feet (and forks) wet — my team of coaches and I want to invite you to our FREE 7 Day Clean Eating challenge in a private Facebook group. 

We will have several meal plan options, and we realize that many people follow different lifestyles - whether thats vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, paleo, or you’re just looking for all around balance.

We’re NOT dieticians or nutritionists, we’re just folks like you who are looking for a solution that suits us best. And we want to pay that forward and have this group as accountability, guidance, and a place to converse about one of the most important aspects of life — EATING (you kinda need it to survive…)






So here’s the details:

> The Group is 7 days long, with a few days before hand to meal plan, prep and portion — its all about being prepared and on point!

> We will have a few meal plan suggestions and recipes you can take a look at and use! Or share what’s been working for you!

> The idea is to keep it clean, whole, the less processed the better, and keeping it simple.

> Helpful tips, fun activities, and group support to encourage you to utilize the next 7 days with a very clean meal plan.

If you would like to be apart to this free 7 day group held in an online private FB group, please CONTACT ME on FACEBOOK - or use the pop up on this page to message me! 

I run these once a month for personal accountability and to encourage those I care about to take care of themselves a little bit each month with focused intention! 

CIAO HEALTHY BELLAS <3

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