This is My Life

Home decor has always been something that was of interest to me.  I like my house to look good and ideally I would love my house to look like it was out of a magazine.  Honestly though you are more likely to find magazines laying around :)

I don't mind somewhat of a lived in look, I do like a few scratches and imperfections as they usually mean something has happened, some memory has been made.  That is ok, overall on a clean day my house looks good enough for me (and don't get me wrong - many days I look around and wonder where to begin!)

When I saw this gorgeous photo on the Dear Lillie Blog (which by the way is one of my favorite blogs to follow) I had a bit of a chuckle...

I love the gray walls, white trim, white furniture, pillows and throws.  

Yep, it is kind of me and then I saw the horse... and I chuckled... hey we have a horse.  So I did a mock staging.  You will see I have some throws (carefully placed where the cats often lay), a pillow that is not quite in the photo....and a horse :) This horse is our life right now.  Our grand daughter is here often and we need ways to keep her busy - one day we will be able to pull the beautiful hand made one that my dad crafted for my kids - but it is much larger and too big for right now.

Oh and note the crate on the floor - I am trying to find a place to put it... but it was something I had to buy - do you know why? 

So here they are together... pretty close don't you think :) 

Matcha Monday

It is no secret how beneficial Matcha is or is it?  Do you use it?  This might convince you to give it a try.

When I sit to have a cup of tea, honestly I want my tea - Earl Grey, Monk's Blend, London Mist... I am not one to really enjoy a cup of Matcha.  Don't get me wrong, many people do, I just prefer to incorporate my daily matcha into other things.

One of the ways I have discovered that I quite like it is in this Chia Seed Pudding.  You know me, must power pack each mouthful of food (especially when counting calories).  Chia Seed is something else that should be a diet staple. 

The recipe is very simple and can be made the night before and enjoyed as a good healthy start to the day!  Recipe is at the end of the post.

You can purchase the Steeped Tea Products Here

For the recipe, click HERE

Thanks for visiting and I hope that you matcha, you will not believe how good you will feel!

Breakfast of Champions

Well it may not be breakfast of champions but it definitely will work for our family!

Let me start off by saying I am NOT a food stylist, chef or anything of the like.  I am a busy mom, wife, grandma, teacher with a degree in Dietetics that wants every mouthful to be a power packed with nutrients :)

Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day and so many people skip it or don't have a proper one.  When I saw a recipe for baked eggs that you could make ahead and just heat up when you needed it, I decided that would be a good one to try and of course I had to alter it and add more healthy ingredients (my family loves when I do that, hehehe).  They looked pretty tasty before going in the oven.  The recipe is listed at the bottom of this post.

They smelled delicious and looked yummy coming out...really though how can you go wrong with eggs, cheese, spinach and basil :) 

We love these Multigrain Thins and use them for burgers, so I thought I would give them a try for my eggs benedict... 

Oh, they taste so good!  Definitely going to be something I make regularly.

For the recipe.... click HERE

Now talk about the perfect test.  I just made them when my daughter got called to work... so glad I can send her off with something quick and healthy!

Continuing to Organize My Party Bags

Earlier I did a post explaining how I keep my Jamberry home party supplies organized using Thirty One Bags - you can see that post HERE.

Today, I would like to go a little deeper.  You see, at the end of the evening sometimes I am tired, there could be a lot going on... whatever the reason - although my bags are for the most part organized I still may have the tendency to just toss my supplies in and 'organize' them when I get home.  Reality is... when I get home I don't!  Are you with me on this one?

So I created this graphic and laminated it.  This I know is going to streamline my tidying up at the end of the party.

If you would like a copy of this, just click on the photo.
I do believe it will download properly even though it looks different when you click on it.

Pssst… want to see this in person?  click on the tab on the side (Love it?) :) ------->>>>>

Are you a Direct Salesperson?  What special tips can you provide?  I would love to hear :) 

Matcha Monday

Lemon Zucchini Flaxseed Muffins    Lemon Matcha Zucchini Flaxseed Muffins

Baking with zucchini brings back so many memories.  My mom used to do a lot of baking and zucchini muffins were one of my favorite.  I did a lot of baking when my kids were little the only thing I did differently than my mom, I tried to power pack everything I made with as much nutrition as I could (must be the dietetics background that I have).

Can you tell what my secret ingredient is today?

When I saw this recipe, the addition of flaxseed caught my eye.

Now I have always added things like ground flaxseed to my baking I always figured a little was better than nothing.  

Well I decided to add another ingredient - Matcha.  I love adding matcha to my smoothies (and I have even convinced my daughter to do so!) but adding a bit more to the diet certainly can't hurt!

I have to say, they are delicious!  I highly recommend adding this recipe to your Zucchini file :)

For the recipe please click HERE or on the photo.

Now to round out my meal I ate my muffin (it was hard to stop at 1 :) ) with some Lemonatcha Chia Seed pudding, Yum!

To purchase the Lemonatcha

click on the photo below

Work on You!

I saw this on the Belinda Ellsworth page and I totally agree!

13 Different Ways to Eat Hummus

Hummus... do you love it?

I love hummus and really should make it more than I do.  It is very good for  you.

Chickpeas are full of fiber (good to keep you feeling full and of course regular) and certainly not as much starch as many legumes thus those on low carb diets this is the bean for you :)    Of course combine them with the tahini (ground sesame seeds) and you have a wonderful, healthy snack.

I really do need to eat more hummus, next on my list to try is baked chick peas...

For now, here are some hummus recipes that may be fun to try.  I  found them on Shape and who knows... perhaps this may be just one way I can eat avocados!

Getting Organized the Thirty One Way

When you hear the word organize what do you think?  Are you one who shudders at the word or  are like me  and love to organize things?

Yep I am an organizer, list maker, planner….

I am also thrifty so I try to do all of the above without spending too much money - that is the up cycler in me :)

However, having said that I am so happy I have discovered Thirty One!  You know how much I love my Direct Sales Companies.  Always have, always will.

When it comes to being organized, there is something about everything being 'matchy matchy' that need.  Perhaps it is a bit OCD but I like to have need everything coordinating.

I loved the size of the Deluxe Utility Totes and ordered one to help me organize my Jamberry Presentation stuff (everything I get for Jamberry has to have some sort of purple/plum colour to it ;) )  And yes it works… however it is big. and just 'throwing my stuff' in there bothered stressed me out so I decided to go all out and have everything I need to be coordinated, organized and all ready for my Fall Parties!

[psssttt… if you want to host a show click on the button in the side bar -----> ]

So guess what I did?   I hosted a couple of parties and got many of them for free or discounted!

You have no idea (well if you are like me… you will 'get it') how good it makes me feel to have this all done.  Notice I even spray painted some Dollar Store clipboards (a primer, couple coats of purple and then finished off with a metallic purple).  Those purple duo tangs (also have pockets inside) are my hostess packets (I make sure to have them ready and take them with me to parties).

Here are my hostess packets.  I put a clip on the top so that the items inside don't fall out :) …not that I have learned this from experience...

What do I have for my Jamberry Parties - believe me I have done direct sales before and only having to carry in 2 bags is awesome!!! Jamberry is so quick and easy to set up for.  Here goes:

2 Deluxe Utility Totes

6 Fold'N'Files'

3 Little Carry Alls

One of the Totes is my Presentation Bag - everything I need for my presentation - clipboards, samples, lottery tickets, wish lists, tent cards, prizes, hostess gifts…

The other Tote is my Display Bag - everything I need for my display table, sampling centre and closing - tablecloth, order forms, bundle booklets, hostess packets, recruiting information, etc…

Now it doesn't stop there…

I also offer Catalogue Parties.  Of course Thirty One has me covered there too :)  I love how the Timeless Beauty Bag holds everything I need for my customers to take to work, daughter's dance, soccer etc… host a catalogue party and earn free and discounted Jamberry!

I do know a few Thirty One Reps so if you are interested I can surely recommend on in your area :)

What about you?  Do you like to be organized?  What does organized mean to you?  Do you use Thirty One?  I would love to hear.

(Sort of) New Jamicure and a NEW Application Video

Jamicure, what's a Jamicure?

Today I just wanted to share with you my Jamicure.  What is a Jamicure?  Well I am sure we all know what a manicure is... well a Jamicure is a manicure using the amazing Jamberry Wraps.

 If you haven't tried them yet be sure to click on the button on the side -------> and request your free sample!

I tried a new technique with this one and I love it... I will be sharing that technique in an upcoming video.  Problem is... not sure when!  This jamicure is lasting so long and still looks perfect after a week that I don't have to change it yet!!!

Having said that though - the fun thing about my job - getting paid to have pretty nails - I get my wraps for free so I often change them even if they look good!

Do you want to get paid to have pretty nails too?  Click on the button at the side ---> Join my team for more information!  Excellent incentive for the month of August only - you don't want to miss it!

I always start my Jamicures with a Jamberry Nail Strengthener, such an awesome basecoat for both the wraps and the lacquers.

I then apply the wraps:  check out this new application video (it is short - I promise :) )!  For perfect Jamicures!

This time I topped my Jamicure with the Lovestruck top coat - LOVE the added bling! - with a just a touch of the Design Dimensions.  Adding the top coat has really added to the durability of the wraps.

Products used:

Navy Stripe (Matte)

Jamberry Nail Strengthener

Lovestruck Top Coat

Design Dimensions

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30 Days...

What can happen in 30 days?

Well a lot can happen if you make it happen.  They say it takes 21 days to make a habit.  Most of us when trying something new give up too quickly.  I must admit I have.  It is easy to make the excuses and much harder to make the time for whatever change you want to do.

Well I am putting it out there for you.

I am getting back on my fitness train, only I will be doing more than just run like I did before. I want to tone my body too.

Did you know that muscle burns more calories than fat?

So... if you replace the fat with muscle, you raise your metabolism...raising your metabolism means that even while resting you are burning more calories!

I need my metabolism raised :)

Along with getting to the gym (notice I am not saying the word TRY) I am DOing a couple of 30 Day Fitness challenges.  Want to join me?

30 Day Plank Challenge

(click on picture to be taken to the website)

30 Day Squat Challenge

What do you say?  

Care to join me?  Comment below if you are going to.  

I would love some company :)

Now I am off for a run.

Zucchini, Zucchini and more Zucchini

Do you have a bunch of zucchini that you are trying to do something with?

I love zucchini and am always looking for something to do with it besides the usual baked goods (muffins, loaf, etc.)

This recipe sounded quite yummy so I had to try it.  I enjoy a meatless dish once in awhile, and this one was perfect for a nice, light summer meal.  Granted it is a breakfast dish, but it worked well for a dinner too - I am a sucker for anything with basil ;)

Next time I would most likely add some mushrooms, peppers and perhaps some grains like Quinoa or Hemp Hearts.  

You can get the recipe HERE:  (click on photo)

If you make it, I would love to hear your thoughts on it.

Matcha Monday

Matcha... have you heard of it?

It is kind of a buzzword.  Is it a trend?

Matcha is a green tea that is getting a lot of press lately.  And for good reason. It is grown only in Japan, is whole leaf green tea and is FULL of AMAZING health benefits.

Since I sell Steeped Tea (I am a tea drinker through and through) I decided to research this Matcha and give it a go.  My family has quite a history of Cancer so I figured that it couldn't hurt.

To be honest, I myself can not drink it as a tea.  When I have a cup of tea - I want a cup of tea - this tastes too healthy for me :).  But I add it to my smoothies everyday.

I had no expectation of what it would make me feel like.  I just hoped for some mental clarity and cancer prevention.

I can not believe how good I feel!!!  Seriously, I want everyone to be taking Matcha.  Not only am I battling depression, I also have anemia (a couple months ago my level was at 6!  Doctors like you level to be at 100!).  So you can imagine how I felt.

Well not more!  I am feeling better than I have in a long time.  I have energy to do things, I am not heading for bed at 9, no more napping - remember my previous post - how I have decreased my anti-depressants (I was actually headed to the doctor to get them increased but decided to try Matcha instead!).... the list goes on.   

So yes Match is a daily ritual for me and I would love for  you to do it too!  You won't regret it!

Click on the photo to be taken to my website and try for yourself!

Laurel what is that drink you have...

I get asked a lot about the drink I have in the mornings.  Well here goes...

 I have arthritis.  It started in my knee, then knees and now one of my hips.  Living with pain at times is tiring in itself but when that pain keeps you awake at night and sometimes has you almost in tears during the day - well that can be exhausting.

I have never been one to take medications but some days, and it was getting to be a regular occurrence, I had to take one or two anti-inflammatory meds.

 I saw something one day about lemon water in the mornings to help with inflammation, detox and what not. Well… I figured it couldn't hurt so why not.

Of course.. the weight loss would be nice to.  So I began my morning ritual of warm lemon water (and I have never been a fan of lemonade so this was tough)

I started hearing more and more about natural things to help with inflammation and so my warm lemon water became - warm lemon, honey and cinnamon water.  The honey was a nice touch so I actually was starting to enjoy this - however I must admit - not having my Earl Grey Tea first thing I do miss.

Well I was well on my way to natural healing and my new morning routine when some more things caught my interest.  

Tumeric and Ginger.  Just the smell of Tumeric made me feel ill so I wasn't keen on it but if it took the pain away, it would be worth it. 

Now let it be known that I DON'T need ginger for ANYTHING related to morning sickness! :)

So there you have it.  The why of my new morning routine.  I have this as soon as I get up in the mornings, wait about 45 minutes before having tea or my breakfast.  What is the result?

I started this January 2015 and it is not August 2015 - I have NOT had any anti-inflammatory meds, my arthritis is very low grade, I still stiffen up with long periods of sitting and such but it no longer throbs!  I feel much better taking this than any over the counter drug.  The turmeric does come in a pill so I do take a turmeric pill as I just can't add a whole lot into my drink without it making me feel awful.

Here is my recipe:

1 cup warm water

1 fresh squeezed lemon

1/2 TBSP pure honey

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp ginger

1/2 tsp tumeric
ETA:  1TBSP apple cider vinegar
1/2 TBSP coconut oil
1/8 tsp fresh ground pepper or drop essential oil

First thing in the morning on an empty stomach

If you try this, please let me know about the results you have.  I hope it makes you feel as good as I do.  I am ready to get out running again!

50 down 25 to go

Sounds like a weight loss plan doesn't it? Well it is actually my anti depressants I was at a dose of 75 and like I said in my earlier post, was ready to up it to 100 as I still wasn't quite right.  However, with some lifestyle changes I was able to decrease to 50 instead!

Well guess what….I have been able to decrease again!  I am at 25 and so far so good (it has only been a couple of weeks).  Fingers crossed that I can get off them :)

As for the weight loss plan… yep going to have to do it again.  I had lost a lot of weight a few years ago (after a weight gain due to hypothyroid) and this past year and a half with the depression and the depression meds I have gained it all back.  Very frustrating!

Well I am ready to get back on with my running - I did a half marathon a few years ago and I am not looking to do that, but my goal is to get back to doing a 10k.

I am thinking that this should help remind me....;)

Jamberry Runner Girl wrap...