Heart & Hustle

I took a couple weeks off from the social media grind. You might have noticed, you might not have noticed.

With summer winding down (but locals' summer just warming up, coastal Jersey folks holler if you hear me!), I felt the tugging need to stay present in my family's lives and to soak up the rest of August's warmth, sun, and fun.

The last two weeks have also been a whirlwind. We decided after some careful thought and prayer to move Peyton from the school she's been attending for the last two school years into a new school for Pre-K, so that came with a lot of running around, nail-biting, and second-guessing.

I decided to have a yard sale in September, so I am trying to negate the tendency to keep all the things and tackle each room a couple nights a week to collect all the stuff we haven't used in a while. So far I've done the kitchen. That's going really well. (the sarcasm is supposed to be strong here)

And with September coming, I've got a lot of tricks up my sleeve. Lots of fun new groups planned. More content for this space. Pressing forward on a lot of my goals.

And then, the holidays. I know, are you cringing right now? I am. But the reality is this: they are coming. Might as well embrace it.

So basically, I am preparing myself for the onslaught of doing all the things again. School, dance class, Bible study, etc. Ramping up my Boot Camps and free challenges. Brainstorming and writing and reading.

But instead I am focusing more on the heart behind it all instead of the hustle.

I can grind out my work all week, but if I am not coming from a place of love, then none of it really matters.

The running around between school and errands and activities? I am grateful and blessed to be able to do it all.

The messages, emails, Facebook and blog posts?

I am lucky I get to work with and encourage others to live their best lives and make decisions that are potential game-changers for the rest of their lives.

It's easy to get overwhelmed with all the to-dos. The goals. The dreams.

Your hustle is what propels you forward, but the heart you put behind it is what gives it all meaning.

This week, my focus is on the heart behind it all.

Intention: Fearfully & Wonderfully Made

I am a perfectionist.

Scratch that.

I am a fearful perfectionist.

A perfectionist in that I strive to be my best person, put out my best work, and really--be the best.

It's hard--especially because I certainly am NOT always the best. It's a hard pill to swallow accepting you can't be the best at everything, even when you want to be.

A fearful perfectionist in that I sometimes find myself completely paralyzed at moving forward in fear of doing something wrong, failing, making a mistake, etc. If I'm not going to do it 100% right and know 100% of things to know about whatever it is that I'm doing, I am not doing it. I hesitate under I am sure I know everything there is to know or learn before jumping in.

One failure, slip-up, or disappointment is enough to shake my confidence for weeks and set me back several steps.

I have been spending so much time trying to cultivate my weaknesses and turn them into strengths that I was failing to allow my God-given strengths to shine.

And on the other side, I find myself constantly playing the comparison game. If I didn't reach my goal before someone else, I didn't get something that someone else has been blessed with, or WHATEVER...I start to feeling twinges of bitterness, resentment, and disappointment with myself.

It's icky.

One truth I am learning to embrace is that my Creator put me on this earth for a purpose. 
He has endowed me with certain skills. 

He has a greater plan for me than anything I could possibly come up with. 

God makes no mistakes. 

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. 

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV)

He designed me a certain way before I even existed, gave me strengths and weaknesses, and knew me before my own parents knew me.

So why do I keep fighting against the weakness He has established within me instead of focusing on the strengths with which he has blessed me?

I am blessed with unique gifts.

I am blessed with my own strengths.

My weaknesses are there for a reason.

There are complexities of my reality that He knows and I haven't even figured out yet.

I am who I am as my Father has created me.

I am His daughter, and he loves me as I am, and am beautiful in his sight--because it was His design for me.

Here's another crashing revelation, light bulb, a-ha moment, etc.: there is no such thing as perfect. Therefore, perfectionism is irrelevant in my life. 

There was one, true, perfect human being, and that was Jesus. I can try to be perfect like he was, but I know now that my version of perfect and His are sooooo different. 

The comparison game and my own self-generated feelings of inadequacy, shame, and hurt? 

My own products.

The desire to master my weaknesses, searching for perfection, and coming up short instead of using my strengths to glorify God? 

My doing.

It's time to focus less on me, my, and mine and more on His, Him, those blessings, and His unfailing love and grace.

This week I am giving thanks to God for making me who I am, how I am, and what I am. I pray that He will use me and my strengths in a way that pleases Him and brings glory to His kingdom, and focus on building others up instead of tearing myself down. May I remain obedient to His calling and know that I am equipped with unique strengths and weaknesses just the way He meant to be.

Fitness Friday - Own Your Excuses...and Then Stop Making Them

Excuses used to flow out of my mouth like straight-up word vomit.

(And there you have it; it IS totally possible to begin a blog post with the word "vomit" in the first sentence.)

You could give me some sound reasoning, and I could give you every excuse to counter that reasoning.

But the truth is this: until healthy living became a priority for me, I found every excuse NOT to pursue it.

It's funny though, because it wasn't until I actually took that first step that all my excuses were completely obliterated. And it almost felt silly, because--what was I so afraid of all this time?

Failure?

That it would be just another phase?

I'd be just another New Years Resolution Maker and fizzle out after a few weeks?

I often see an image shared by a lot of people on Facebook, on Pinterest, on Instagram...it's everywhere: 

It's harsh, but it's true.

But to put it more nicely: if we really, truly want something, we should be placing our focus on finding solutions instead of building excuses.

Making an excuse is you convincing yourself that you aren't capable.

Finding a solution is creating a stepping stone to believing you can.

Here are the top five excuses against pursuing a healthier lifestyle I hear (and have heard from myself), and ways to re-route those excuses into actionable ways to move forward.

Excuse #1:

I'm tired.

This one is easy:get more sleep.

Think of healthy living as being multi-faceted: you need to eat right, drink enough water, get moving, and get enough sleep.

Would going to bed an hour earlier each night make a difference? 

I dare you to try it for a week and tell me you don't feel more well-rested.

Excuse #2:

I can't afford it.

A lot of people I talk to are intimidated by the financial commitment participating in a boot camp requires. Or even how much a gym membership requires. 

If pursuing a new healthy lifestyle is a priority for you, consider this:

How much money do you spend on dinners out?

Drinks with friends?

An unhealthy habit that you can ditch and replace with a new, healthy one?

I once joined a gym and wasted over $500 on a membership contract--and only actually went to the gym 10 times. I wasn't ready, 100% committed, and I found every excuse to NOT go. 

It wasn't until I started finding solutions (hello, T25!) that any expenses began to seem more like investments--I was putting money into something that was making ME better.

Excuse #3:

It's hard to work out with kids.

This is a HUGE one for me. You'll see why in a second.

Yes, you are a busy mom. Your kids take up a lot of your time. They should!

But also consider this: you can do something that shows them what it means to lead a healthy lifestyle. 

You can be the point of modeling what it means to take care of yourself. 

You can get get them interested in what it means to get moving. 

In a country where healthy habits are missing for a lot of kids and childhood obesity is a concern, it CAN start at home. And it CAN start with you.

Start with taking family walks after dinner and before bathtime. 

It'll bring your family closer together, AND it'll instill healthy habits in your little ones.

I love programs like PiYo and CIZE because these are programs that my daughter can jump into with me. Sometimes we have dance-offs. It is awesome.

Excuse #4:

I'm busy. 

You don't have time. Our time is precious. I get it.

BUT...

How much time do you spend:

Scrolling through your newsfeeds each day?

Watching TV?

Hitting the snooze button three times too many in the morning?

Start small. Try a workout for just 25 minutes.

30 minutes of physical activity takes up 2% of your day. BOOM.

Excuse #5:

I'm not motivated.

If you are the only person in your family who has decided to make a change for the better, its easy to feel isolated or lonely as you make these changes.

(ask me how I know this)

Really, it chalks up to finding it within yourself FIRST, and then taking the steps to ensure that motivation continues.

Find an accountability partner. Check in often.

Join a boot camp. Then you'll be in a group of like-minded people all doing the same thing you are.

When we stop focusing on our excuses, own up to them, and funnel our efforts into finding solutions, everything can change. If you are only lukewarm about making change, it's easy to come up with excuses. The magic happens when you go all in, and the solutions seem to outnumber the excuses.

And now, three more ways to beat your excuses:

Set a goal.

Make it a SMART goal.

Specific.

Measurable.

Attainable.

Realistic

Timely.

Don't just say, "I want to lose weight." Dig in. Get descriptive. How much weight do you want to lose? How will you know when you've done it? What will it mean to have reached that goal? Is your goal too far-fetched? Is it something you can realistically accomplish? When will you accomplish this goal by? 

SMART goals provide direction. They provide clarity. They are easier to track.

Consider your "WHY"?

This is something I do with all of my Boot Camps--find out and share your "WHY."
Make it public. Put it in writing.

What is driving this desire for change?

What is the greater purpose behind undertaking a new goal?

It's personal. It's motivating. It encourages.

It is a constant reminder of the internal and external forces that keep you going.

Plan, plan, plan.

It's so cliche, but it's so true: failing to plan means planning to fail.

Plan your meals. (click here for tips for meal planning!)

Stock up on foods that fuel your body.

Plan your workouts. Put them in your calendar.

Consider it a date with yourself. Don't stand yourself up.

When you are faced with an intimidating goal, I encourage to you think of this: 

Instead of wasting my energy on excuses, I will focus on building solutions.

Finding solutions instead of excuses doesn't just apply to making a leap into healthy living. This resonates with ALL types of big, scary goals. Once you have a dream, a goal, a fire in your belly that SCARES you, it's easy to make up excuses why it can't or won't work.

The challenge lies in finding the strength within ourselves to take our excuses and transform them into things that propel us forward every single day.

What is Team MisFIT Mama About?

I started my coaching journey in May of 2014. Since then, I've helped almost 30 people get started on a path of reaching goals and crushing them, and dozens more in free challenges.

I said it in Monday's post--but I am REALLY grateful that God gave me this opportunity to help light fires in other people's lives. My heart is full, month after month, knowing that I can somehow make a difference in someone's life. This little job of mine is a blessing.

And now, it's time to build.

I envision a team of people who want to be a beacon of support and encouragement for others. Who aren't afraid to dig in with others on their goals, and REALLY dig into their own goals. People who are compassionate, confident, and fierce in their own lives, and that spills into everything they do.

A team where we share ideas, brainstorm together, celebrate achievements, share our struggles, and put it all out there in the name of serving others.

So, this month I am SO pleased to announce that Team MisFIT Mama is FINALLY happening! I am finally at the place in my business and personally that I am ready to mentor individuals on a coaching path for Team Beachbody that will only increase the sense of purpose in your lives and help you find fulfillment.

Who would make a great coach?

Are you an upbeat, positive ray of sunshine?
Are you unafraid of setting goals and working to reach them?
Are you fiercely dedicated to helping others?
Are you a dreamer?
Are you self-motivated?
Are you unafraid to fail forward?
Are you a leader, or think there's a leader buried somewhere within you?
Do you want to create positive change in others' lives?

Then I want to introduce you to an opportunity that can change your life.

Coaching isn't about being perfect. Coaching isn't about having it all together.

Coaching is about learning and growing and helping others do the same.

Coaching is standing up for someone who is afraid to take the first step. To grab their hand and LEAD them. To be a friend, an accountability partner, and a source of encouragement.

You don't need to have your "after" body already. You don't need to know everything there is to know.

But you can't be afraid to start learning and applying, and sharing your story.

We are all unique, and God has blessed us with different gifts. I envision a diverse team of dreamers, thinkers, and doers who are ready to light a fire.

You'll get all the resources you need. You'll get all the support you need. What you do with it is up to you.

To serve, to empower, to create joy, and have some fun while we're at it--THAT's what Team MisFIT Mama is all bout.

Some of the perks of becoming a Team Beachbody Coach:

• The power to become a role model and catalyst for positive change.
• Stronger accountability in your own health & fitness goals.
• The chance to be your own boss--set your own office hours, decide how and when you will work, and set your own goals and milestones.
• 25% discount on all of your own purchases.
• 25% commission on retail sales.
• Leadership skill development and the chance to lead your own team of life-changers.
• The chance to earn trips, prizes, and more
• The opportunity to live a life of freedom, purpose, and fulfillment.

If you are interested in becoming a Coach, I invite you to attend an informational call on Thursday, August 13, 2015 at 8:00 PM EST. You can learn more about the opportunity, see if it's right for you, and we can chat afterwards about how you can incorporate coaching into your life.

You can fill out this form and I will reach out to you with details on the call and answer any questions you might have:





I look forward to working with you!

Why Coaching?

Have you ever felt like you are stuck in a rut?

I mean, the kind of rut that is lifelong?

It's scary. I've been there. 

It's the feeling of knowing that this is it. This is all life is cracking up to be to for you. No need to set goals, no need to dream big. Today is the status quo and it's time to embrace it, because this is your life.

Don't get me wrong--I am absolutely not counting being a mother or a wife in this rut. Having a family of my own is one of the greatest things to ever happen to me. 

What I'm REALLY talking about is losing your sparkle. What makes you YOU.

Wake up. 

Get ready. 

Go to work. 

Come home. 

Make dinner. 

Go to bed. 

Repeat.

Where is the sparkle in that?

Truth is, my sparkle was DULL, you guys. Monotony and ho-hum got the best of me. But the strange thing is, I wasn't always that way. 

I've always been a dreamer, but I've always been the type who didn't know what I wanted to be when I grew up. 

When I was a kid, I wanted to be a marine biologist with a focus in marine conservation (I was wildly into Free Willy, but woefully horrible at science). 

Then, in high school, I wanted to be a psychologist and help people. When I applied to college, I was a psychology major. 

The day I showed up for freshman orientation I met with my advisor and switched my major to Political Science. Law school, I told myself, I could focus on law and how to help others that way. 

And then by my senior year I was so burnt out from my workload that I decided law school was not in the stars for me and that I wanted to work for a nonprofit organization. The fact is, I've always just wanted to make a difference. To someone, somehow. 

So, that's what I did. I went to work for a nonprofit organization. And it was awesome.

Until one day, about three years later, I didn't work there anymore.

I am especially grateful for the following 10 months, because I was able to stay home with our new baby and really come into my own as a mother. Eventually, though, all good things come to an end and it was time to go back to work. So I got myself a job. A challenging, completely-new-to-me job for a privately-owned company in an industry I had ZERO experience in. 

And at first I was grateful.

And then I got comfortable.

And then I became resigned.

Day in, day out. Same old, same old. No more fire to create change. No more dreaming. No more planning. This. Was. It.

Resignation is probably the worst feeling ever, because you feel like your only option is to accept the status quo. Get too comfortable and you find you're just going through the motions.

I was listening to Brendon Burchard's very first podcast, and he likens this stage to a caged lion. At first the lion is active in his cage--prowling, moving, very much still engaged in his new environment. After some time, the lion begins to just sit back...to the point that Sir Lion is now no longer an active participant in life. Life just happens. Days go by.

And then Brendon Burchard says this: it takes something to come along and rattle the cage to get them engaged again.

I am SO THANKFUL that God dropped this coaching gig into my lap to rattle my cage!

By starting my own journey, I realized that I could be a catalyst for positive change for others.
To love on people when they need it most.
To be that person in their court when they feel like no one else is there.
To be a partner.
A cheerleader.
A friend.

And just like that, that fire in my belly is burning again to make a difference...except now I know that I can. It's not up to a job to give me that feeling. It's not up to my degree to give me that feeling.

It's up to ME to reach out to someone or be there when someone asks for help...and then show them and guide them to change for the better.

It's empowering, knowing I've got that in me.
It's inspiring, seeing how CHANGE is possible in the most intricate ways.
It gives me hope, seeing the example I set for my family.
It's eye-opening, envisioning the future.

It's life-changing, because it has encouraged me to dream dreams I never thought possible. To set goals that used to be unreachable.

To DARE to say "I can, and I will."

And then work hard for it, every day.

Finding that sparkle, and shining that light.

Friday Faves - Why Stitch Fix is a Busy Mom's Best Friend

psssssst....this post contains referral links, just so ya know :)

Back in April, I treated myself to Stitch Fix for the first time ever, and I am hooked. I could shout from the rooftops how much I love getting presents in the mail (even if they are from myself), and Stitch Fix tops them all. Because, hellooooo--who doesn't love getting new clothes? And since losing weight, my wardrobe is in desperate need of an overhaul.

Here's why this service is great for busy moms:

-No wasted time spent wandering around the store.

I am a horrible shopper. And 9 times out of 10, I have my mini-sidekick with me. I love her, but she is not supportive or conducive to making my horrible shopper tendencies any better. I usually dash through a store, grab a bunch of things I think I'll like, and then come home only to find out that I hate all of them. This happens more often than I'd like to admit.

With Stitch Fix, I create my account, fill out a style profile (which is SO FUN), link my Pinterest board to my profile, and schedule my shipment. When the stylist goes to style my Fix for me, I get charged a $20 "styling fee", my five pieces get shipped, and then I can apply that $20 toward anything I keep (AND get 25% off if I keep everything in my box).

Once I get my box, I have three days to decide what I like and don't like, send back what I don't like (in a prepaid envelope, woo hoo!) and pay for and keep what I like.

No running around stores, no decision-making over this blouse or that blouse. It takes 20 minutes to fill out your profile, and then when you Fix ships you have to be patient for just a few more days :) But NO stress!

-No horrible fluorescent lights in dressing rooms.

Dear Retailers:

Who decided THAT was a good idea? I'm pretty sure your goal is to get women to try on clothes in a way that makes them feel happy about themselves, not cram them into a 4 foot by 4 foot space with horrible lights that make them look like a mombie (that's mom + zombie). I have walked out of major retailer dressing rooms feeling worse than when I walked in. How does that make me want to spend my hard-earned money?

Once I get my Fix, I am able to try on everything in the comfort of my own home, with pretty lighting that doesn't make me look terrible, and can consult with existing pieces in my closet to see how well my shipped items jive with what I already have. It also helps that Stitch Fix sends you these awesome little styling cards to help you put together pretty little outfits with the pieces they send you. This is my favorite part.

You get three days to do this from the day your Fix is delivered, and I HIGHLY recommend using all three days. You might try something on on the first day and just feel ehhhhh about it, but the next day you might remember you have these fabulous skinny jeans that would go perfectly with that flowy blouse you got in your Fix. And then it's love at second sight.

-It's a great way to step outside of your comfort zone.

I have always been a black/gray/navy basics/classic type of girl. In Fix #3, my stylist noticed I had been pinning things lately with "pops of color," so that's what she sent me. And she didn't fail me on the color department! And geometric prints--never thought they'd be for me, but it turns out I LOVE them!

-Surprises are always fun.

I kind of like being at the mercy of my stylist. There are ways to "cheat" and peek at your Fix when they first let you know it ships (when you get your email notifying you your Fix is on its way, you can click "checkout survey", see the list of items you are getting and Google them), but it's nice to let someone else do the thinking for you. All you have to do is try the stuff on. Who doesn't love a good fashion show from the comfort of their own home?

In Fix #3, I totally cheated and Googled the pieces I was getting. This can backfire and you can be like "ehhhhhh". Or you can be totally pumped. For this Fix, I was somewhere in between "ehhhhhhh" and "yayyyyyy", but it certainly did not disappoint once my Fix finally arrived.

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In this Fix I had a new stylist, Rachel, who noted that I love "glam and preppy styles with casual chic details and pops of color." Rachel, if you ever read this, I think you are my spirit animal. Girl, you NAILED it. Please be mine forever. <3

Here is my sweet little note from Rachel and my styling cards. Even when I send stuff back, I keep these cards for inspiration in my own closet.

And here are my pieces and details, what I kept--and what I sent back.

Renee C Huebert Space Dye Open Cardigan - $68

I got this in my June Fix and LOVED it, but it wasn't meant to be in June. When I checked out, I said I'd love to see it in a future Fix, and sure enough--there it was in Fix #3! I love cardigans. I wear them year-round (hello, cold office).

Now, this is where I feel foolish. I tried it on, still liked it, but didn't LOVE it like I did back in June. Plus I have three gray cardigans in my closet already that are in regular rotation. 

Status: Returned (but maybe kind of regretting it since Fall is around the corner)

Brixon Ivy Sylvester Split Neck Blouse - $54

I loved loved loved the color of this when I took it out of the box. Loved the sleeves, loved the material, loved that it could transition nicely to the office...and then I tried it on. I did not like the neckline so much. I feel like it made me look very boxy.

Status: Returned (but I made sure to let them know I wouldn't mind more of that color in the future!)

Fun2Fun Sonoma Striped Sleeveless Top - $38

This is one where I cheated and Googled before it came and was just "ehhhhh" about it. But really, it is a great summer shirt. It was pretty sheer, so a cami under it would have been necessary, but it was pretty nice! And color! It turns out I like color after all.

Only problem? I got this one on, but it was super tight in the bust. I felt like I couldn't exhale without busting some seams on the sides of my chest. I would have kept it if it was just a little bigger.

Status: Returned

Pixley Kathy Striped Fit & Flare Dress - $68

I loved this dress the second I pulled it out of the box. Like, really loved it. I love stripes. I love black and white. I loved the back of the dress (wish I got pictures, but the neckline in the back comes to a cute little "V"). But it just felt like TOO much stripe action when I had it on. I looked around in my closet for a chunky belt or something to break it up, but I had no luck.

Peyton wanted me to keep this dress, and it gave her all the sads when I told her I was sending it back.

Status: Returned.

Pixley Rolfe Geo Print Top - $54

When I did my cheater-cheater-pumpkin-eater Googling, I couldn't find a photo of this shirt ANYWHERE. Not on Google, not on Pinterest--NO WHERE. And that made me a little nervous, especially considering the "Geo Print" part in the name of this shirt. I usually shy away from prints and prefer solids (or stripes), so I was immediately wary of this little number. But I did tell Stitch Fix to send me prints because of that whole "getting out of my comfort zone" thing, so I trusted the process, tried it on--and guess what? It was my favorite piece in the whole box! I immediately took the tag off and wore it out to dinner that night. 

It looks great with a pair of skinny jeans I got in my first box and a statement necklace I have in the same peachy-pink color you see in the detail. I can also throw a cardigan or a blazer over top of it and then it's office-ready! If this top was a person, I would ask to braid its hair and tell it all of my secrets.

Status: Kept. And worn three times already.

My total for this box? $4. I had $50 in credit because I had some awesome friends sign up for Stitch Fix with my referral link, so I only had to pay $4 for the geo print top I wound up keeping.

Right now I have my Fixes scheduled for every other month, so my next Fix is scheduled for the end of September--just in time for the temperatures to start dropping and start building up my Fall wardrobe!

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I wrote this post as part of my Friday Faves series, a way of introducing fellow women and mamas to things I love! Stitch Fix is no way involved, except for the fact that I really just love them. Links in this post are my referral links. If you sign up for Stitch Fix via my link, I'll get a credit. Once you get your first Fix and you LOVE it (and I bet you will love SOMETHING in your box!), you can shout it from the rooftops and share your own referral link!

Why Not Shakeology?

Ah, Shakeology, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways:

Fewer cravings.
Less bloating.
Feeling satisfied between meals.
Um, "regularity."
Fewer bouts of illness.
Stronger hair and nails.
Clearer skin.

I love it.

But when I tell people I require Shakeology for the majority of my Elite Boot Camps, I meet all the resistance in the world.

The truth is, I get it. I really do.

I was not ready to jump in headfirst myself. I had probably all the same arguments and excuses you do:

Would it be worth it?
Why is it so darn expensive?
Am I really a "shake" person?
Will it be gross?
Can't I just go get protein powder at GNC or something?

I bit the bullet in May 2014 and ordered a bag. I told myself I'd try it for a month and if I didn't like it I would stop ordering more bags, and if I HATED it I could always get my money back (I mean, a product whose company would give you your money back even if you returned an empty bag has to be legit).

It's been 419 days, and I have had 419 shakes. Give or take a few. But the moral of the story is: I am hooked. I am head over heels for Shakeology.

If you are on the fence, or even in complete disbelief that a product like Shakeology is for you, I am here to debunk some of your doubts. From a doubter to another doubter--this is for you.

Would it be worth it?
Any investment in your health is worth it. The convenience, the ingredients, the results--THOSE are what is worth it.

Convenience--I am, admittedly, not a get-up-and-get-breakfast person. It's the most important meal of the day. But I struggle finding a.) the appetite and b.) the time to make breakfast in the morning. Blending up a scoop of Shakeology with some fruit and almond milk in less than five minutes sounds pretty darn good to me. I also build it into my schedule for the day: if I'm running out the door and know I'll need a snack or some sort of sustenance to keep me from getting "hangry" (you know you've been there too!), I'll mix up some Shakeology and out the door I go.

Ingredients--I'll explain more below, but you can't beat it. Read the back of a Shakeology bag and your mind will be blown at some of the stuff that's in there. Goji berries? Camu-camu? Ginkgo? Yacon Root? If I were to juice or make my own version of these shakes at home, I wouldn't even know where or if I could find these ingredients handily placed on my grocery store shelves.

Results--my love letter to Shakeology knows no bounds, really. I listed most of the benefits I've seen at the start of this post, and really--it's all true.

I've kept my nutrition in check.
I don't crave sugar or junk food anymore.
I cut out my several cups of coffee a day habit.
I have avoided every sniffle, cold, and cough my daughter brings home (except for the devil flu we had over last Christmas...but I feel like that unavoidable)
My digestion system is running on all cylinders, so no more icky bloated feeling.

Why is it so darn expensive?
Because you're paying for quality. A lot of shakes contain fillers, preservatives, soy, and artificial ingredients, but you won't find that in Shakeology. Shakeology is made up of whole foods. High-quality ingredients. When you order a bag of Shakeology, you are essentially ordering the highest-quality meal you can possibly feed yourself once a day for the next 30 days. That is 30 days of replacing one meal a day with superfoods that you can't find anywhere else altogether like that.

It's $4 a day for quality.

Am I really a "shake" person?
Are you a vitamin person? As in, do you take a multivitamin every day? Because you really should be.

Some fun facts:
There are 13 vitamins that are considered essential for proper body function.
Shakeology contains all of them--there are actually 23 vitamins and minerals in Shakeology.

Do you know what else it contains?

Proteins and amino acids for muscle building and repair, healthy skin and nails, brain function and immune system support.
Antioxidants to protect from free radicals and cellular damage.
Phytonutrients to promote healthy aging, detoxification, and the ideal alkaline state.
Adaptogen Herbs to naturally increase energy, promote cognitive function, calmness, and helps your body cope with environmental stressors.
Prebiotics to help strengthen the immune system.
Probiotics to promote healthy digestion.
Digestive Enzymes to promote better assimilation of nutrients into the body.

If you were to buy individual supplements for a lot of these things, in addition to your current multivitamin, you'd probably spend a couple hundred dollars at the very least. Shakeology makes it a tidy, convenient way to get the best support your body needs to function optimally.

I bet that would make you a shake person.

Will it be gross?
Heck no. My shake is the best part of my day, and you know why? Because it tastes like dessert. I mean, who gets to eat chocolate for breakfast and feel okay about it? I do. And there are SIX varieties to choose from--chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, greenberry, vegan chocolate, and vegan tropical strawberry.

My personal favorite? Vegan chocolate with a blended banana, unsweetened almond milk, and ice. I can drink that every morning and never ever get bored.

Can't I just go get protein powder at GNC or something?
You could. But why would you just want protein when you can get an entire package of nutrition? And if you were to buy a container of your run-of-the-mill powder at the store, you'd STILL need to spend the extra money to add the superfood ingredients to even bring it up to par with Shakeology. You can't find a protein powder anywhere that wears as many hats in such a wholesome way as Shakeology. Because Shakeology isn't just protein. It's an entire meal.

So, really...when I tell my clients that they need to invest in themselves by including Shakeology in their Elite Boot Camp experience, I am not trying to upsell.

My job as a coach is to ensure they get the appropriate support they need to see results and feel amazing, and Shakeology gives them the best chance at that success--because it is really one of the best and easiest thing they can do for themselves during the time they spend with me during Boot Camp--and beyond.

Mustering up the motivation to push play on your Insanity workout? That can be hard.

Blending up something in your kitchen that tastes good and has amazing benefits? Easy peasy.

August Goals & A Look Back at July

July was a month of strange dichotomy for me.

It was the month I was finally going to get organized and legitimately define my goals, but it was also a month of sunshine, snuggles, lazy days, and a planned vacation smack dab at the end of the month.

And just as with all things--I found that balance is where it's at.

August seems like a pretty stable month for me--no real giant commitments aside from the goals that I've set for myself. I am refusing to allow the momentum I've picked up fizzle out, so I am moving forward with all things. Progress, not perfection :)

But first, a look at July's goals. How did I do?:

Start AND finish 21 Day Fix
I am going to go with a check mark on this one. I didn't finish week 3 in its entirety as scheduled, but did repeat week 3 once I got back from vacation. And really, all that matters is that you don't completely fall off the wagon, amirite?

Get to the beach.
Big ol' fail on this one. My toes did not touch the sand once in July. But we did spend a lot of time outside, soaking up the sun. So that works for me.

Continue my daily study of the Book of Proverbs
Done. I actually just wrapped up a study of the Proverbs 31 woman. The entire Book of Proverbs was so eye-opening into the wisdom and knowledge that I can soak out of God's word each day. It provided me tidbits to meditate and pray on each day, and literally I read something each day that was like it was meant just for me. That first hour, every day, is now my favorite part of the day.

Lose three pounds.

Check. As a result of my last round of 21 Day Fix, I lost 3.7 pounds AND 4.5 inches. What is to be really  celebrated, though, are the boot campers who lost a total of 40 pounds and 39 inches. They were ROCKSTARS.

Have a successful Month 1 of the This Misfit Mama Book Club
Wellllllllll....not so much on this one.

Have you ever read a book that was just...so...hard...to....get....through? I sailed through the first four chapters and then it was like pulling teeth each day to read a little more. Accordingly to the group, I am not the only one who felt this way. I am glad to report that I did indeed finish the book, am looking forward to having our first official "meet up", and will share a review here as well.

Help three people build self-esteem and learn to love their bodies via Boot Camp

This month was epic. FIVE PEOPLE. And they were all amazing. I really can't say it enough, but I am so blessed to get to do this!

Build monthly calendars to keep me on track

• Free Challenge Groups - check
• Boot Camps - check
• Blog Editorial Calendar - check; and not only that, but I have the entire month of August's posts drafted and scheduled! I have never felt more organized.

Spend at least an hour a day, M-W-F, building this space.

I've been doing a lot of reading on blog-growing, brainstorming post ideas, and fun series to share here. Overall, I'd say this goal was met, but its one of those "boomerang tasks" (Happiness Project ladies holler if you hear me!) since learning and growing is never-ending, so this is staying on the goal list. I am trying to maintain consistency as best as I can here, and July really helped with that!

Start brainstorming ideas for a weekly newsletter.
The most brainstorming I've done here is that I've decided that it won't be a weekly newsletter, but somewhat more infrequently than that. That's all I've got for ya.

Register a domain.
Bumped to August :)

$100 a month in program sales.
Almost doubled. BOOM.

200 likes for This Misfit Mama on Facebook.
Goal not met. Onto next month!

Brainstorm what my "Dream Team" will look like.

Oh man, I've got so much in store for you this month. I feel like my heart is going to explode--in the best way possible.

Create a system to get those new potential coaches started right.

Still in its very early stages, but on my way.

And--here we go--onto August!

Personal Goals

Save $500.

I am admittedly not good at saving money. Time to change that.

Declutter one room.

One of my big goals in the next few months is to set up a dedicated, honest-to-goodness office space in our third bedroom. A place to sit and think, plan, hold team calls, chat with prospective Elite Boot Campers, create videos...you name it, I need a space for it. That bedroom is currently a "catch-all" room--mostly with my junk in it. Mostly crafting junk, which I have been selfishly hoarding for months, arguing with Denny "what if I neeeeeeeeeed it?!" The fact is, I have only used that stuff a handful of times in the last year, and it's so disorganized I usually can't find what I'm looking for and then I go out and buy a new one anyway. August's goal is the de-clutter, organize, part ways with things I don't use and/or truly need any more, and be honest enough with myself to carefully curate things I think I WILL need and store them nicely. This will give me the chance to start building the bones of a peaceful, inspiring space that isn't the kitchen table. Also: new Pinterest board. I love me some Pinterest boards, and I love pretty spaces.

Help 5 people build self-esteem and love their bodies via Boot Camp.

This month's Boot Camp is all about 'CIZE! Click here to learn about the 'CIZE Elite Boot Camp starting in August. I have some REALLY fun, exciting ideas for this group--think the usual support and accountability, but with some fun extras thrown in (and some freebies! Remember, first three people to sign up and purchase their challenge packs get a FREE copy of FIXATE!)

Lose 3 pounds. 

This will bring my total loss to 6 pounds since July. Onward and upward, baby!

Grow the This MisFIT Mama Club

I really have this insanely exciting vision of a community of strong, fierce women who are sharing, inspiring others, celebrating daily victories, feeling safe to share their vulnerabilities and struggles, but knowing that it's OKAY that today wasn't perfect. The This MisFIT Mama Club is my free, invite-only fitness and wellness group, and I'm looking forward to EXPANDING! I mean, I even had a dream that I had branded workout tanks made up. Who says that can't happen?!

Blog/Business

Build the foundations of my team.

During the month of August, I am hoping to start finding my rockstar wellness warriors who embrace a lifestyle of health, wellness, love, integrity, and gusto who want to reach more people and help them live their best lives. More on that later this month :)

Start the newsletter.

I still haven't decided on frequency--but once I choose, I want to be able I can sustain it with quality content. I'm thinking I am going to hold off on this for the second half of the month.

Explore other types of social media platforms--and not be afraid to use them.

Periscope, this means you.

REGISTER THE DOMAIN ALREADY.

Just do it already, Brittany. Sheesh.

Cheers to August, lovelies!

Having More FUN - 'CIZE Dance Party is Coming This Month!

Would you believe me if I told you it was possible to get moving, get more exercise, and NOT hate every single second of it?

Something that will have you sweating AND smiling?

'That's odd,' you might be saying to yourself, 'Sweating AND smiling? Not possible.'

But it's true. Wanna know what will get that sweaty and smiley result?

'CIZE.

I know--seriously?

Seriously. It is that fun.




So while I'm sitting here thinking about my weekly intentions--I thought a good one would be to have more FUN--why does everything have to be so gosh darn SERIOUS all the time?

I'm serious about my work.
I'm serious about my goals.
I'm serious about getting things taken care of around the house.

Why does my workout have to be so serious? If I'm doing it to help me feel good...should I feel good doing it?

And yes, when I lift heavy or doing some crazy Insanity-style cardio and get a good sweat on, I FEEL good. But am I smiling?

Hint: NOPE. I am definitely not.

When I tried the sneak peek that was available to me via Beachbody On Demand, I was excited to give it a whirl. I danced for about 10 years, loved every second, and now I love watching my little girl dance. But but but...why can't I rekindle that love I had for the art?

That is exactly what this program does for me.

Not only was I CRAZY sweaty during the entire workout (which is essentially a routine you work through, step-by-step, and build on until you get through the entire routine at tempo), I was smiling ear to ear during the entire thing. I was clapping, I was jumping, I might have even woo!-ed at one point because it. was. that. much. fun. I felt like I was 16 again.

My bad day?
Gone.
Stress?
Gone.
A perfectly good sweat session?
Awesome.

So what do I envision for my August Boot Camp?

An epic dance party, that's what.

80s Day.
Work It Wednesdays.
Sweaty Selfies.

Working together, having FUN, and getting in shape. That's what I see for the August Boot Camp.

So, if you:

• are a dancer (even the "dance like no one is looking WHEN no one is looking" dancer!)
• are a Zumba lover
• like dancing, but maybe aren't the most coordinated
• want to have fun
• want to get a great workout
• want to relive some stress in a productive, uplifting way
• don't feel like driving to the gym every day to get a quality workout
• want support and accountability in a close group of people working toward the same goals and having FUN while doing it

I want to talk to YOU about being in the August Boot Camp.

I only have a few rules you have to promise you'll follow:

I promise to:

Nourish my body properly.
Get my sweat on every day.
Check in with my group every day.
Allow myself patience and kindness.
Love myself.
Be a beacon of support and encouragement to others.
Celebrate victories--big AND small.
Focus on progress--not perfection

This isn't just a four-week program and then BOOM you're done. If you choose my Boot Camp, you are committing to having success and I am committed to seeing that success through as your partner for LIFE. I know firsthand that making these changes doesn't happen overnight, but taking action is the very first step, followed by perseverance, patience, and drive. With a community of support and me as your coach behind you--I will not let you fail.

As your coach, I am your mentor, friend, and fellow wellness warrior. You'll join a close community of women who will lift you up and support you--because they're choosing to take the same leap of faith in themselves that you chose to take. Positive life change starts one step at a time. I am here to guide you through the steps, overcome obstacles, build your sense of confidence, fight that "stuck" feeling", and celebrate the entire process.

Let's commit TOGETHER to having some fun this month!

Fill in the form below and I will reach out to you with next steps...congratulations on making this commitment!

PS: First THREE people that sign up with a Challenge Pack get a copy of the NEW cookbook "Fixate - 101 Personal Recipes" by Autumn Calabrese!