Feelin’ Snacky

Peas and Crayons

It’s been a while since I’ve made a frozen yogurt mess for breakfast, so I brought it back  after meeting with a client.

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  • 1 container Fage 0%
  • 1/3 cup Kashi
  • 1/4 frozen banana, sliced
  • 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries
  • 1/2 T raw almond butter
  • cinnamon.

mix all together and place in the freezer for 5-10 minutes.

Since it’s pouring here in Boston today, I was craving a taste of the tropics. I made myself a cup of Island Coconut coffee to go along with my fruit filled breakfast.

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By far my favorite flavor yet.

You all know that I love my Rice cakes, and I just can’t get enough of their versatile capabilities as a pre workout snack.

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click the link above for other rice cake recipe ideas!

  • rice cake
  • 1/2 Tbsp raw almond butter
  • 1 Tbsp strawberry preserves
  • 1/2 cup cooked egg whites topped with blueberries cinnamon.

I also had a hot water with fresh lemon juice in my favorite mug Smile

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I often add a packet of Stevia in the Raw to it for a hint of sweetness. It’s good to do cold as well, for a healthy lemonade on a hot day.

Enter INSANITY!

I’m trying to get the DVD to work on my laptop so I can bring it to the gym with me, but it keeps skipping. My living room has a carpet and I’m feeling unstable when I do certain movements.

Any suggestions on how to get the DVD to work on laptops? Help!

Post workout snack

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  • 1/2 sliced Granny smith apple
  • 1 scoop of Sunwarrior vanilla mixed with 3 Tbsps. unsweetened vanilla almond milk, slowly added
  • 1/4 cup Kashi
  • cinnamon

I also had a small salad on the side, mixing 1/2 T Dijon mustard with 3 Tbsps. balsamic vinegar as my dressing.

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I didn’t have time to grocery shop yesterday, so “Take Out Tuesday” it was!

Thank you SATO II!

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  • Persian salad with 1/2 sweet potato, topped with cinnamon
  • steamed chicken with mixed vegetables and sliced ginger.

Matt also ordered himself a beef teriyaki, Peking ravioli, chicken fingers and brown rice.

I love when I don’t have to cook Smile

Now it’s off to the grocery store to fill up my fridge.

Stay dry!

GOLEAN CRISP! Cinnamon Crumble

For those of you who read my blog regularly, (I love you Smile), you’re probably aware that I have a major crush on three tasty ingredients:

Greek yogurt, Kashi GOLEAN, and Ground Cinnamon.

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Did I say crush?

I actually meant that I’m in a pretty committed relationship with them.

They have their own key to my apartment and a place for their toothbrush in my bathroom.

So imagine my excitement when I received an email from Jessica at Formula PR, asking if I would like to try a sample of a new cereal, GOLEAN CRISP! Cinnamon Crumbles, created by one of their clients, Kashi.

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“ A combination of deliciously light and crispy whole grain clusters with natural cinnamon , toasted to perfection”

Sounds Glorious

Kashi: “We packed our New! GOLEAN® Crisp!™ Cinnamon Crumble cereal with 10 grams of protein and 9 grams of fiber — that’s twice the protein and fiber of the average of other cereals* — to help keep you feeling fuller longer!”

I couldn’t wait to try it out.

As I had previously stated, “It’s my favorite cereal and spice all rolled into one!”

For the most part, people like to eat their cereal out of a bowl, covered with ice cold milk and topped with a banana or other fruit of choice.

I however, prefer to use it as a topping on my yogurt, cottage cheese, and as a sweetener in my own trail mix creations.

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I even mix it into my smoothies, adding a bit of a “crunch” to an otherwise boring consistency.

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I’m the type of girl who likes to incorporate a lot of texture into my meals, and this morning, I knew exactly how I wanted to put these light, sweet, and protein filled cinnamon crumbles to use.

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I present to you…

Apple Crisp Yogurt.

golean crisp yogurt

  • 1 container of plain Greek yogurt
  • 1Tbsp chia seeds
  • 1/3 cup Cinnamon Crumble
  • Sliced Gala apple

Verdict: Approved!I

I loved the lightly dusted flavor of cinnamon sprinkled onto each cluster. It was not overpowering, and it added just the right amount of sweetness to every bite.

Delicious!

As I prepared my breakfast, I got to thinking about creating the dessert edition to my recipe.

Baked Apple Cinnamon Crumble

  • Gala apple; heated in microwave or baked in oven
  • Vanilla bean ice cream or Frozen Yogurt
  • Dark Chocolate chips
  • Kashi GOLEAN Crisp! Cinnamon Crumble sprinkled on top.

Definitely a winner in taste, nutrition and texture Smile.

If you are a fan of Kashi products, give this cereal a try. It’s delicious in all the right ways.

They also offer another flavor, GOLEAN CRISP! Toasted Berry Crumble, and since I apparently have a thing for berries as well, I’m sure I will love it just as much.

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You can find GOLEAN CRISP! Cinnamon Crumble, along with Toasted Berry Crumble at your local grocery store and natural food retailers nationwide for around $3.99 per box.

Also, check out Kashi’s website for more information, products, and recipe ideas.

Caffeine Machine.

True story.

I love coffee

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It’s aroma can get me out of bed in seconds, and taking that first sip is like drinking a cup of warm and cozy blankets.

Then it’s buzzing affects hit and off to work I go! Best of both worlds Smile

Whether in liquid form, ice cream, candle or grinded with chocolate and sugar…

(best stuff ever)

coffee is my one vice that I refuse to go without.

Any why should I?

Coffee benefits. 1-2 cups a day.

  • Natural boost of energy, unless it’s Decaf (stay away from those 3hr energy shots, Rockstar and AMP) They are full of sugar, chemicals and will have you crashing like a kid who just inhaled 5 candy bars)
  • Helps with mental alertness
  • May help reduce Heart Disease, Dementia,Type 2 Diabetes, Gallstones and certain Cancers.
  • Full of Antioxidants
  • May reduce the risk of stroke and certain skin disorders
  • It tastes good, is low in calories, and gets me through some tough and sluggish mornings.

Of course, just like everything else, coffee should be consumed in moderation. It is a natural stimulant, so a sudden increase in heart rate and trouble sleeping may occur. Try to have your last cup no later than 4 hours before bedtime, and always have your water bottle close by to avoid dehydration.

Also if you are an expecting mother, along with an avid coffee drinker, talk to your doctor about any risks or concerns you may have.

Along with my usual Newman’s Own Organic coffee this morning, I made a protein shake to drink in the car on the way to a clients house.

1cup Unsweetened Almond milk, 3/4 cup pasteurized liquid egg whites, 1/2T unsweetened cocoa powder, handful of spinach, and 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries.

Fills you right up with energy!

After my training session, I ran straight to Trader Joe’s to grab a bunch of items before the morning rush filled the aisles.

I’m trying to avoid having to go to the grocery store tomorrow before the Super bowl, but I’m sure something will turn up where I’ll have to tackle someone for the last bag of Tostitos and salsa.

I’ll make sure to wear a helmet, a Patriots helmet  that is!

Post workout/Trader Joe’s meal: Chocolate Almond butter Frozen Yogurt

chocola yogurt

1 container of Plain Chobani,1/2 scoop chocolate protein powder,1/2T raw almond butter. Mixed with 1/3c Kashi GoLean Original and a handful of fresh blueberries,

Place in freezer for 5 minutes and enjoy.

Off to seize the day!

Have a happy and healthy Saturday! xoxo

Thirsty Thursday {So Long Sweet Summer}

September 1st already?

Time to pack up our beach chairs, put away our swim suits, close down the pool and winterize our boats.

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WAIT!!!!

Not so fast, my friends. We must first celebrate the final weekend of the Summer…

To most, this holiday is a bittersweet. It marks the official end of Summer, the start of a new school year, and a rapid dip in temperatures. 

It also means cozy fires, hot chocolate and yes, pumpkin flavored everything Smile

But before we switch from lemonade to cinnamon spiced lattes, let’s kick off this weekend with one last Thirsty Thursday of the Summer season.

Thirsty Thursday Theme: So Long Sweet Summer…tear

Drink #1 Strawberry Citrus Soda

  • 2 oz Tanqueray Rangpur
  • 3 oz Soda Water or Sprite Zero
  • Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1 Large Strawberry, sliced

Mix Ingredients in tall glass with ice.

Drink # 2 Banana Daiquiri

  • 2 oz Bacardi Superior
  • 1/2 oz Banana Liqueur
  • 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1/2 Frozen Banana,sliced

Blend ingredients together with ice until smooth. Top with dollop of whipped cream and maraschino cherry.

Drink # 3 Cranberry Citrus

  • 2 oz Citrus Vodka
  • 3 oz Diet Sierra Mist Cranberry
  • Fresh Lime Juice

Mix ingredients together in tall glass with ice. Garnish with lime wedge

Enjoy!

If you missed last weekend’s Fall Favorites, be sure to check those out as well.

Cheers to the end of one season, and the beginning of another!

And cheers to those of you who have taken time out of your busy schedules to vote for me for Boston’s Most Valuable Blogger!

I appreciate you all so much and your support is overwhelming. The winner will be announced on September 9th, and you do not need to live in Boston to vote.

Have a good night! xoxoxo

Thirsty Thursday {Flavors of Fall}

I am loving that so many of you are looking forward to Fall just as much as I am! But I can’t help but wonder…

Is your excitement due to the fact that Pumpkin flavored coffee will soon be available in coffee shops nationwide?

Thought so. No shame. I’m right there with ya!

Until then, I’ve settled for an equally delicious combination of French Vanilla with a dash of cinnamon and Truvia.

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So..Hurricane Irene is about to rear her ugly head straight into my birthday weekend, and what better way to welcome her than with some strong cocktails?

Maybe she’s a light weight and will pass out before she reaches Boston. We can only hope. But, since that doesn’t seem to be the case, let’s get the drinks ready shall well?

This weeks Thirsty Thursday is all about the bold tastes of Fall

Drink # 1 Cranberry Pomegranate Martini

  • 2 oz Pomegranate Vodka
  • 3 oz Fresh Cranberry Juice
  • Fresh lime Juice

Combine liquid in shaker with ice. Pour into chilled glass with fresh cranberries.

Drink # 2 Pumpkin Spice Martini

  • 2 oz Vanilla Vodka
  • 1 oz Pumpkin Liqueur
  • 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
  • Pinch each of Cinnamon and Nutmeg

Combine ingredients in shaker with ice. Pour into chilled glass rimmed with cinnamon or graham cracker crumbs. Garnish with cinnamon stick.

Drink #3 Caramel-Apple Cidtini

  • 1 oz Organic Apple Cider
  • 2 oz Vodka (can also use vanilla flavored)
  • 1 oz Butterscotch Schnapps
  • Pinch of Cinnamon

Combine ingredients in shaker with ice. Pour into chilled glass rimmed with caramel sauce and fresh coconut. Garnish with thinly sliced apple and cinnamon stick.

Don’t forget about the rich selection of seasonal beers, such as Oktoberfest, Pumpkin Ales, and Samuel Adams new addition, Bonfire Rauchbier

Cheers to the last Thursday of my 25th year!…Siigh

Oh!..And if you could be so kind to vote for me for Boston’s Most Valuable Blogger. It would be the best birthday gift ever Smile

xoxo

Aloha!

The Luau party was a success!

My sister-n-law and I decorated all afternoon, transforming the yard into a festive and tropical oasis.

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Bamboo Wall

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My giant Mai Tai was a hit!

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oey dressed the part as well.

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The night went perfectly and everyone had a blast. 

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And now it’s time for breakfast!

Or should I say lunch?

Whichever meal it is, it will be eaten on the couch, where I plan to spend the rest of my day.

Hangovers….

Thirsty Thursday {Island Drinks}

 

Since I live in Boston and Palm Tree’s are nowhere to be found, the only way to get a taste of the Island life is through fruity cocktails. Thank goodness it’s Thirsty Thursday!

I have sipped my way through many tropical destinations and I am here to share with you some of my favorites. Lets get started! 

This weeks theme…Island Drinks!

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Drink #1 Aruba Ariba.

  • 1 oz Vodka
  • 1 oz Bacardi 151
  • 1T Crème de Banana
  • 1/2 oz Orange Juice (or Crystal Lite Orange)
  • 1/2 oz Cranberry Juice
  • 1/2 oz Pineapple juice
  • Splash of Grenadine

Stir together. Add maraschino cherry and orange slice.

Drink #2 Island Breeze

  • 2 oz Parrot Bay Pineapple
  • 1 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
  • 1 oz  Fresh Cranberry Juice
  • Splash of Fresh Lime juice

Stir Together. Garnish with Fresh Pineapple slice

Drink # 3 Planters Punch

  • 2 oz Bacardi 151
  • 1 oz Fresh Orange Juice (or crystal lite)
  • 1 oz Fresh Pineapple Juice
  • 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1t Agave Nectar

Stir Together. Garnish with Cherry and Orange Slice

Drink # 4 Tutti -Frutti Tini

  • 1 oz Absolut Citron
  • 1/2 oz Cruzan Coconut Rum
  • 1/2oz Peach Schnapps
  • 3oz Fresh Pineapple Juice

Mix ingredients in shaker with ice. Serve in chilled glass with Pineapple and Orange Slice.

Aaaahhh…I’m relaxed all ready

Cheers to the Tropics!!!

Enjoy my friends and Drink Responsibly xoxo

Thirsty Thursday { Chocolate }

Rain may have ruined my day off from work, but it made the perfect setting for a peaceful Yoga class this morning.  I find that on gloomy days, I am much more calm throughout my session.

Namaste.

Following class, I grabbed myself a coffee from Dunks and headed home for breakfast.

After Yoga Yogurt Bowl

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  • Fage 0%
  • mixed berries
  • 1/2c Kashi Go Lean
  • Cinnamon

I had planned on a day of studying, however I could not seem to concentrate long enough to obtain any information.

Damn you caffeine.

I ended up spending most of the afternoon catching up on emails and watching daytime television. Actually, it was more like flipping back and forth to different channels because again…no concentration today.

Even though it is raining outside, this does not mean that Thirsty Thursday will be cancelled to a later date.

I would never.

All we have to do is move the party indoors Smile  

Get ready for a sugar buzz! This weeks flavor is….CHOCOLATE!

Drink #1. Chocolate Vanilla Swirl

  • 1.5 oz Vanilla Vodka
  • 1/2 oz Godiva chocolate liqueur 
  • 1/2 oz Crème De Cacao

Shake ingredients with ice and pour into chilled glass. Top with Whipped Cream.

Drink#2. White-Chocolate Raspberry

  • 2 oz Stoli Raz Vodka
  • 1 oz White Crème De Cacao

Shake with ice and serve in chilled glass. Top with fresh raspberries and dark chocolate Hershey Kiss.

……. I saved the BEST for last…….

Drink #4. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup

  • 1 oz. Vodka
  • 2 oz. Castries Crème Peanut Rum
  • 1/2 oz Chocolate liqueur

Shake ingredients with ice and pour into chilled glass rimmed with Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup. Top with a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. (And a large scoop of Teddies on the side!)

Ok, so these are not the most healthy drinks in the world, but moderation and balance is key Smile.  

Just remember these are dessert drinks, which means dessert SUBSTITUTION.

Enjoy!! Tomorrow’s Friday!!