tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8153785772878861432024-03-05T02:53:47.293-08:00Finding FitJust a girl sharing her journey through adventures in the kitchen, in Crossfit, and in scripture
...join me in Finding Fit. Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-51928171587934738022017-03-08T19:42:00.002-08:002017-03-08T19:42:26.839-08:004 Ingredient Whole30 :: Paleo Caesar Spaghetti Bake.Remember that time I thought I'd be blogging each week in 2017? Yea, me too...<br />
Welp. We do what we can right? Working on that mentality in 2017. Stay tuned for the hyper-perfectionist, control freak, people-pleaser, yes-girl's outcome to that effort. (insert new, and much needed, eye-roll emoji here).<br />
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With the completion of one Whole45 challenge this year, and working through my next Whole30 currently, I've done a lot of cookin this year. It always feels good to be back in my zone. To be prepping, creating, and all around nailing the "clean eating" efforts. Feels good, don't it feel good. A lot of these meals get randomly thrown together and slapped out there on SnappyChat (designerlisa), and a lot of people ask for these recipes but I just keep postponing and looking for the perfect way to post, share, or word these things.<br />
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Then suddenly one of your besties makes you a home-cooked, Whole30 approved, meal (because she cares about your goals and lifestyle and SHOWS IT!) and you realize you can S I M P L I F Y.<br />
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So here we are. SIMPLIFYING with a SIMPLE meal. Katy shared this gem on Trim Down Tuesday over at her stellar blog, Keeping Up With Katy. You can check out her personality-filled blog and lifestyle musings <a href="http://sarahkathrynreeves.blogspot.com/2017/01/trim-down-tuesday-chicken-caesar.html">here</a>!<br />
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So what's amazing about this dish, is not only it's simplicity (catching the theme here), but also it's flexibility. Katy made the version she wrote about here from Pinterest for us and it was delicious! I altered a couple things based on what I had in my pantry and fridge and it was also...delicious.<br />
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SO Paleo Caesar Spaghetti Bake. (The way I made it this week)<br />
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What ya need:<br />
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<ul>
<li>1 Spaghetti Squash </li>
<li>3/4 cup of Tessamea's Whole30 Approved Caesar Dressing (Whole Foods or Central Market)</li>
<li>2 grass-fed beef sausage links (Costco has some TOP notch beef links yall. Quality meat.)</li>
<li>Greens...any kind. Whatever you fancy. I used a mix of kale, chard and spinach and about </li>
</ul>
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Then what happens:</div>
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<ol>
<li>Prep your sketti squash. There are many ways to do this! I preheat the oven to 415, slice open the squash, and cut out all the seeds and muck with a small knife. Then brush each half with some oil (avocado is my preferred) and then salt and pepper. And bake until the shell gives a little. This usually takes 30 or so minutes depending on your oven and the size of your squash. You can also microwave so just test out your preferred method!</li>
<li>While that's cooking, prep your meat. I used a pan with some avocado oil to pan sear the beef sausage after cutting into small discs. (Katy used a rotisserie chicken which is even easier and still tasty!)</li>
<li>Once baked, use a fork to shred the "spaghetti into an 8x8 pyrex pan.</li>
<li>Mix in the meat and its juice if there is any! </li>
<li>Then add the greens and that Caesar goodness and mix everything together. </li>
<li>Bake at 350 for about 10 minutes to warm everything together to just get that flava flave all set in. </li>
</ol>
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Serve up OR let sit and divide into containers for the week! I made 4 containers out of mine which was from a small-medium spaghetti squash and let me tell you. It reheats B-E-A-U-tifully.</div>
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And that's all for now. </div>
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Happy Simplifying and Finding Fit, </div>
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Lisa</div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-61064133454801829852017-02-02T17:09:00.000-08:002017-02-02T17:09:05.399-08:00A Lil Nutrition Lesson :: & Cauliflower Hash-browns.If you've ever gandered down your Facebook feed, then I'd venture to say you've seen those "Tasty" videos by Buzzfeed and the gazillion other types of cooking videos and snippets populating the inter-webs. While I tend to slide on past those because the most enticing ones involve all things sugar, not spice, somebody shared one the other day that totally caught my eye!<br />
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Cauliflower is one of those unicorn vegetables...nobody believes the goodness exists in it, but when you truly see the nutritional value and the ease of using it in literally anything, it becomes a treasured kitchen arsenal!<br />
I mean I know the texture seems weird and dealing with it is a little like being covered in chalk powder (hard pass yall.) BUT please look at all the benefits of this super-veggie!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-rfY3DgUyeT-f7uI4ld7_p8S_HzEGAAZa7drWpADkvz-wV9jx-_G1NPDRw_zxPF_S8welk_zRx5CHa494ml5q9IWldp2VqtTA4L1CQKMs_jN2eSTfLZzyqWUpE69N-mGZ-M2ETkp4VFo/s1600/Cauliflower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-rfY3DgUyeT-f7uI4ld7_p8S_HzEGAAZa7drWpADkvz-wV9jx-_G1NPDRw_zxPF_S8welk_zRx5CHa494ml5q9IWldp2VqtTA4L1CQKMs_jN2eSTfLZzyqWUpE69N-mGZ-M2ETkp4VFo/s320/Cauliflower.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>Fights Cancer (both with cancer cell killing and inhibiting compounds)</li>
<li>Boosts Heart Health (with better blood pressure and kidney performance)</li>
<li>It's an Anti-Inflammatory (aint nobody need no inflammation triggered!)</li>
<li>All da Vitamins and Minerals (Vitamin C, K, protein, thiamin, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, fiber, B6...JUST to name a few)</li>
<li>Boosts Brain Health (and ya really can't fix stupid)</li>
<li>Supports Digestion (yep...the fiber...yep...mass exodus...)</li>
<li>Antioxidants support Detoxification (say bye to all the toxins...)</li>
</ul>
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So WHY would you not give the lil white-headed step-child a chance?</div>
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Sidenote: these same benefits are found in a lot of other cruciferous veggies such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, arugula, bok choy, collard greens, radishes, kale, and turnips, among others!</div>
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But I digress...</div>
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That video I saw was for what I've come to call a "Cauliflower Hashbrown" and it was EASY and SO good. </div>
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Here's what I used:</div>
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<ul>
<li>About half a bag of this pre-riced Organic Cauliflower Rice (I posted a couple weeks ago about <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2017/01/forget-boring-chicken-fried-rice.html">making cauli-rice</a> though if you aren't as lazy and convenience driven with your cooking...)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li>2 eggs</li>
<li>FlavorGod Garlic Lovers Seasoning (Any of them would be awesome or some garlic powder, s/p would do alright)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li>Some Avocado Oil for cooking<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Then What Happened: </div>
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<li>Mix half the bag of cauli-rice with 2 cracked eggs and coat in seasonings of choice. You want this to be sticky and evenly coated.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOE11qjkcRXmmQJecihHxWrZsYrLiJGUOfzakXyyS_9n8bogwIpI3Qxy-5kc_CgsMmsvxyfuhJjh4CQaNsK2UGH7UuGVQCjAyOEvayK-eSrIiy7eBs03OZntyxOEH0ZEUYVEmmhddzEY/s1600/hashbrowns2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOE11qjkcRXmmQJecihHxWrZsYrLiJGUOfzakXyyS_9n8bogwIpI3Qxy-5kc_CgsMmsvxyfuhJjh4CQaNsK2UGH7UuGVQCjAyOEvayK-eSrIiy7eBs03OZntyxOEH0ZEUYVEmmhddzEY/s320/hashbrowns2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>Heat a pan with some avo oil (or EVOO) and add lumps of the mixture like little pancakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizCaVdEoqp68JFbwnh_TPQ-dEQ4kuu01wSt4WxhnllFJ7zKDLHRp_XQHjhW3UqohyphenhyphengPiGsFWRiL-a1W6AyHeMwQkkxTdEIAxVAUdb4DgTvaClSFpsPchyphenhyphenxiZHD-dpEwvh9LYqrQQLKVLU/s1600/hashbrowns4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizCaVdEoqp68JFbwnh_TPQ-dEQ4kuu01wSt4WxhnllFJ7zKDLHRp_XQHjhW3UqohyphenhyphengPiGsFWRiL-a1W6AyHeMwQkkxTdEIAxVAUdb4DgTvaClSFpsPchyphenhyphenxiZHD-dpEwvh9LYqrQQLKVLU/s320/hashbrowns4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<li>Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until brown. If your pan is hot enough, it will brown and crisp up (and painfully splatter you a little) and be easier to flip!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</li>
<li>I added a little extra seasoning before removing from the oil and then let them sit and crisp up a little. </li>
<li>That's it! Now stack with anything and everything! I added a spread of guacamole (I think the video did this) and then 2 fried eggs on top! I mean LOOK at them yolks...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These reheated and tasted great (obviously not crispy but still tasty) and they tasted just like a hash brown to me which is fun to get more of the nutritional benefit without the heaviness of potato!</div>
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Breakfast, lunch, dinner, ain't no discriminating. Just do it. And fight all the bad things in your body with somethin GOOD. </div>
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Finding Fit, </div>
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Lisa</div>
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-11952218283011697182017-01-29T20:26:00.003-08:002017-01-29T20:28:05.065-08:00Whole45 Update :: Seeking my "Differently."Well into the 4th week of my umpteenth Whole30 style nutrition challenge (<a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2017/01/2017-reset-my-whole-45.html">Whole45 </a>is what's goin down these days if you missed it!), I get really excited to keep on keeping on. While a lot of Whole30er's are having dreams of that reintroduction phase and how thankful they are the Reese's Valentines hearts are dawning the shelves with such timeliness, I am ready to keep going.<br />
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Around this stage I see just what I've been missing all over again, since the last slippery slope off the wagon. I see my body change shape. I see the numbers change. I see my dependency on said numbers change. I see pictures of myself I like. I see my face differently. I see my closet differently. I see myself, my determination, my dedication, and my priorities. Differently.<br />
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Let's first get one thing straight...I am human...there are things I want sometimes more than the meat and produce awaiting me in the fridge. There are times a little dessert sounds like it would go a long way. And every once in a while a day when I'd just appreciate a dadgum glass of wine (or 2). BUT (and it's a pretty significant "but") remember those aforementioned things I see differently?? My mental strategy and game is always to call those to mind FIRST.<br />
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So as I call those things to mind, it's funny how the Bible reminds us to be on our guard from temporary satisfaction because the enemy is on the prowl. Most people don't think of food or "cheat meals" as an open door for the enemy...mostly because they don't have to. But the more I've stripped down 2017 for my reset and shut as many of those open pathways, the more I've seen that the enemy prowls around my kitchen and my meal times as well. He'd love nothing more than for me to give in, backtrack, get discouraged, self destruct, and withdraw from the Lord and His plan for me...in even this one aspect of my life.<br />
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Lately simplifying life (in a lot of aspects) helps to keep me from getting distracted and creating pockets of access points for that prowling lion. I tend to overwhelm myself with a perfect version of the check list and then each task barrels down with an unattainable check mark. While my battle with perfectionism and unrealistic rosy pictures will be coming to a theater near you in the future, I choose to focus today on simplifying, anchoring in truth and just enjoying those "differently"s as the result. </div>
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Today's simple focus looked like this: </div>
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<ul>
<li>Get a simple workout in, even while traveling with friends, in the midst of distraction. </li>
<li>Arrive home from the airport after a full-heart weekend full of childhood friends and cute baby nuggets in the Little Apple, Manhattan...Kansas. </li>
<li>Go straight to the grocery store and only get what supplements things leftover or frozen from the week before. Don't try to reinvent when you've got a good base already!</li>
<li>Grab a giant ice coffee (black-duh.) and get in the meal prep zone (Too Legit To Quit playlist and all)</li>
<li>I kept it simple this week with mason jar salads and homemade dressing for lunches and an old favorite,<a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2016/01/bubblin-over-paleo-pizza-spaghetti-pie.html"> Pizza Spaghetti Pie</a>, for dinners. </li>
<li>I ended prep with a tasty but simple dinner that makes me excited for the things I make and the non-boring, non-flavorless food choices I choose. (This is oven baked sweet potato discs, brussels sprouts, 100% grass fed beef Polish links (a favorite Costco discovery) and a drizzle of homemade jalapeno "ranch". Simple. Flavor, Explosion.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So yes, we have another 17 days or so in this go round for me (before I give myself a little treat for birthday shenanigans and then rev the engines again for March 1st). But I intend to pursue all the simplifying, Satan thwarting, happy place making decisions I can. Because I can. And because I can't wait to see the next thing...differently. </div>
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Making small check marks and Finding Fit, </div>
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Lisa</div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-36635621215531712162017-01-09T16:39:00.002-08:002017-01-09T16:39:58.760-08:00Forget Boring :: Chicken "Fried Rice" <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With the turning of the new year, there are a LOT of people venturing into Whole30 as I mentioned <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2017/01/2017-reset-my-whole-45.html">last week</a>. One of my college friends actually set up an accountability group for friends participating in a Whole30 challenge in January on Facebook; and, it has been a blast to see strangers and friends alike help each other out with tips, tricks, struggles and all the food pics (pretty or not!)</div>
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One of the recipes I shared in that group, from the archives, was this "Fried Rice", inspired from Livin Paleo. I used to make it a regular in the rotation and have just forgotten that I enjoy it so much! It seemed to be a hit with those who tried it and I decided to whip some up for my lunches this week, in my meal-prep last night. Man, were my taste-buds happy at lunch today! (not to mention full and satisfied!)</div>
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<b><u>What I used...</u></b></div>
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<ul>
<li>Avocado oil for pan frying everything (1-2 tablespoons total)</li>
<li>1 head cauliflower (chopped and then pulsed in the food processor to a rice like consistency-i did this in about 4 parts)</li>
<li>Chicken breasts, chopped and cooked (I made 6 meals out of mine so I used 6 chicken breasts, any sort of meat will work - pork, beef...)</li>
<li>About 1.5-2 cups of chopped carrots</li>
<li>1/2 onion chopped</li>
<li>2 cloves minced garlic</li>
<li>Snow Peas (I chopped and added them because they sounded good-any veggie could work in this!)</li>
<li>2 eggs</li>
<li>1/4-1/2 cup Coconut Aminos (this is an excellent replacement for Soy Sauce!)</li>
<li>Garlic Powder, Salt and Pepper for seasoning</li>
<li>Green onions to top</li>
</ul>
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<b><u>Then What Had Happened Was..</u></b>.</div>
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<li>In one pan, cook up your meat! I just coated in garlic powder and added a little salt and pepper then set aside. (Steamy. I know....I mean we are talkin chicken breast here...)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebugw-2e4rwi4imLoFnNf45Dz_DkD0cMABc23DqRxD2CtbZICd6wNw4PLOR-ix4dSHchobFnBCAhZKosC-eHna_3utjuP1Vs9dHAbN12gp0CCR1mf-Z5m_r_52pHsze4mUblhco55AfM/s1600/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebugw-2e4rwi4imLoFnNf45Dz_DkD0cMABc23DqRxD2CtbZICd6wNw4PLOR-ix4dSHchobFnBCAhZKosC-eHna_3utjuP1Vs9dHAbN12gp0CCR1mf-Z5m_r_52pHsze4mUblhco55AfM/s320/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li>In another pan, saute the onion in oil (EVOO or Avocado oil are fine!) Then add in your carrots and cover to steam.</li>
<li>Add in the snap peas. These need less time to cook, depending on how textured you want your veggies. Add some garlic powder and s/p in this mix as well so it soaks in some flavor as it cooks!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li>Set these aside and pan fry the riced cauliflower. I added a little oil and then some garlic here and just sauteed enough for flavor but not to mush...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWNyz3B-Mfnoc37T7Ck6Zy_0fXD4lIi8dBFofay-T8FHzGz3VDNR-ZwXtSrVLkktPmCDyQMcHipRDeMq79k-lfsnPics-2yhfytYTMOej2sLO1SzfaCnSfoEZnO7eRvMXraXfaxYEWTCs/s1600/unnamed+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWNyz3B-Mfnoc37T7Ck6Zy_0fXD4lIi8dBFofay-T8FHzGz3VDNR-ZwXtSrVLkktPmCDyQMcHipRDeMq79k-lfsnPics-2yhfytYTMOej2sLO1SzfaCnSfoEZnO7eRvMXraXfaxYEWTCs/s320/unnamed+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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</li>
<li>Mix the meet, veggies, and "rice" in one large skillet and then pour in the Coconut Aminos.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL54YorynLr1VrhCNKYHPgiF-YBu_veMf881MA0YS0anR4q4FLGZFkM5KMtEXdQWQcHQnExNyFZt4qzeHW39GxucZI-lHcugdOZI-q0C8si92Zaa-_EFE2j2LFx0ueHA_LjmJoifT8jLk/s1600/unnamed+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL54YorynLr1VrhCNKYHPgiF-YBu_veMf881MA0YS0anR4q4FLGZFkM5KMtEXdQWQcHQnExNyFZt4qzeHW39GxucZI-lHcugdOZI-q0C8si92Zaa-_EFE2j2LFx0ueHA_LjmJoifT8jLk/s320/unnamed+%25283%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>Whisk the egg separately and then dump over the entire pan, incorporating the egg and allowing it to cook all around the mixture. Stir for a couple minutes until cooked. </li>
<li>Season with salt and pepper to taste and add some chopped green onions on top for look and added flavor.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This reheats great and is an easy and tasty way to get in lots of veggies and your protein. Who says you can't have some fun with cultural inspiration on your Whole30?!</div>
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Working on the egg roll solution...</div>
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and Finding Fit, </div>
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Lisa</div>
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<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-73010012365195126032017-01-03T16:06:00.001-08:002017-01-03T16:06:55.543-08:002017 Reset :: My Whole 45.Oh hey 2017. Didn't see you there!<div>
While I join the rest of the world in the natural mixed sentiments: "where did 2016 go?", "bye Felicia to 2016", "what am I doing with my life?"...ya know the usual New Year revelations and year turning mental crises, I also rejoin the blogging world. Said Finding Fit revival to include, though not limited to, all things health, cooking, working out, blatant truth about progress (and sometimes lack there of) and, naturally, occasional Friends references.</div>
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Rather than focus on the sad truth of a measly 6 posts that squeaked out in early 2016, I'm diving right in with the here and now!</div>
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Though I'm not one for the trendy "Resolution" thing, as expressed back in 2015 <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2015/01/resolving-to-resolve-in-2015.html">here</a>, I am a fan of a mental reset. Any of my Facebook friends or Instagram followers know that I lead a fun life. Seriously. I am young and single; and, Lord willing, that won't be the case forever, so I embrace it! However, that fun life has sneakily become more of a priority than a lot of things the Lord has gifted me passion and drive towards (see my original story shared <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2014/11/heres-storyof-happy-fat-kid.html">here</a>), so it's time to RESET the priorities...</div>
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RESET time habits</div>
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RESET budget habits</div>
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RESET sleep habits</div>
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RESET eating habits</div>
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RESET Jesus habits.</div>
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For me, this starts back at home base...the kitchen. SO I have started Whole30 again, as of...hmm...today. Because, I'm just not good at that whole 80/20 lifestyle, and I much prefer the way I feel while pursuing smart and healthy foods. After mentioning a Whole30 to my trainer/bestie/ex-roomie, #CoachBecca, she sort of gave me that "annnnd what else?..." sort of look, nudging me to realize 30 days is a good start, but I can do more. I've done 101 days straight and lived to <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2015/07/true-satiation-whole101-recap.html">tell about it.</a> So with my birthday February 17th and maybe a little celebration desired at that point, I decided a Whole45 would suffice in getting back on track for now. </div>
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I thrive on the community of people interested in this lifestyle change and sharing recipes, techniques and research, so here we go!</div>
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Monday being a holiday provided a perfect chance to dive into shopping and cooking...or as some may say "being right back in my element". And let me tell you, I was JUST THAT. Snacks, breakfasts, lunches, and dinners all prepped and ready to take on the week, in true Whole30 lifestyle! (And yes I'll divulge some details on these later this week). </div>
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Plus this perfectionist's heart skips a beat at the idea of THIS image going into the week..,,<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4zoQ9C9njwGzXnhrsKQ_fux2zojcrTs7TNalfvq6HZhwGwiSWp-Qr1R6HtZFNI7XZtdn_rlAz0_afm1BT5CLiPVVqP7-BsSCVKmW0di7MaQru1yLg5hyphenhyphen8KrNSiOE2H1CDmvvC3h5pbI/s1600/january+food4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4zoQ9C9njwGzXnhrsKQ_fux2zojcrTs7TNalfvq6HZhwGwiSWp-Qr1R6HtZFNI7XZtdn_rlAz0_afm1BT5CLiPVVqP7-BsSCVKmW0di7MaQru1yLg5hyphenhyphen8KrNSiOE2H1CDmvvC3h5pbI/s400/january+food4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My goal is to share recipes and experiences here in my corner of the world wide web once a week for the entirety of my Whole45 so here we go....Reset is in place...and Team Monica always wins.</div>
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Still Finding Fit in 2017, </div>
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Lisa</div>
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-31124724759909332982016-05-11T20:37:00.003-07:002016-05-11T21:20:04.115-07:00The Joy of Jogging :: Challenge Time.If you've been following this blog for a while, you probably know two things: <br />
A. I'm really good at gettin crazy busy and falling off the left phalange of the blogosphere (I'M SORRY!) and TWO, I live for a good fitness challenge.<br />
<br />
My friends know that lately I've been searching to rediscover my love for working out. While boxing has been a great and fun adventure, I've found that it doesn't hold my attention, drive, and determination like Crossfit did. Even the weekly morning workout routine fizzled out. Being almost 6 months post-surgery, I am finally starting to evaluate what exercise regimen works for me and how to take the weight loss to the next level.<br />
Coming to terms with the fact that the community, encouragement, accountability, and constantly varied programming of Crossfit is my heart's one true fitness love...I plan to return to the Crossfit world in July. Yes, in the heat of the summer. But hey, that's when I started almost 5 years ago and it lasted almost 4 years, so BRING ON THE HEAT!<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I've been soaking up my last couple weeks in my apartment complex, surrounded by a beautiful park and trails. Which got me to thinking...maybe it's time to revisit "running". I use air quotes, not in the way Joey does "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bW8OkSJvhvE">not usin em right</a>", but because running is to be read as "jogging" or "fast paced walking-ish" activity.<br />
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Several years ago I did some 5K Training classes with RunOn and loved it! But when I joined my second session, I experienced numbness and crazy pain in my feet no matter what shoes I wore and what pace I kept. After seeing such progress in working towards "running", I was devastated to have to stop due to Plantar Fasciitis in both my feet and bone spurs in both my heels. Yes, that's as painful as it sounds. <br />
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Sitting at my lowest weight as an adult (so far) right now, I figured I may as well see how some light jogging fares with my feet (and with my Vionic orthodic tennis shoes...no seriously...I swear by their shoe support). I took to the park to see if I could just get some short little jogs in, maybe 100-200 meters at a time. And ya know what. I did. Before I noticed, I was doing 400 and even an 800 at a time on my first venture. And it felt good. Like the good that Phoebe feels when she runs. I may have even released a little <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-IVhJLD0sQ">Phoebe run</a> in the back lot of the park...<br />
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A friend of mine mentioned that I should look into a jogging challenge of sorts...and you guessed it...I've jumped at that idea.<br />
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SO I set out this week to add jogging in 3 times a week. My first venture out, I just jogged to see how long I could go, and before I knew it, I was aiming to get a mile in without walking. AND I DID IT. Even when taking the running classes, there was always intermittent walking and running so this was literally the first time I had run a mile straight with no walking.<br />
YALL.<br />
It was slow.<br />
It felt long.<br />
13 minutes to be exact.<br />
But by the end, I felt like I could keep going.<br />
And then yes, I took a sweaty selfie. A swealfie.<br />
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With the encouragement of some fit friends and their running expertise, I've decided to delve into what I'm labeling <b>The Joy of Jogging Challenge</b>. Putting my favorite word right there in the title can only mean good things right?<br />
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<b>Here's the challenge: </b><br />
<b>Weeks 1-3, Jog 1 mile straight 3 days a week. </b><br />
<b>Weeks 4-5, jog 1 mile 2 days a week, and 2 miles 1 day a week</b><br />
<b>Weeks 6-8, jog 1 mile 3 days a week, and 2 miles 1 day a week </b><br />
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Tonight, I had my second jog and my mile was 13:22. A little longer, a little hotter, a little different than the first. BUT I did it. With no walking.<br />
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I share this, like everything else I share here, to seek accountability, to encourage others to participate or get after their own challenges, and to have a place to remain open and honest about my progress with "running" and all things fit.<br />
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I'm determined to choose COURAGE to do something I wouldn't venture into for fear of failure <b>OVER</b> COMPLACENCY of letting the potential to do something great pass by. <br />
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So get to jogging and if you see me, ask me how it's goin. You're the best.<br />
<br />
Finding the Joy in Jogging and<br />
Finding Fit,<br />
LisaLisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-70107687268662969032016-03-23T20:41:00.000-07:002016-04-07T20:45:42.251-07:00So Fresh and So Clean Clean :: Shaved Cauliflower Salad. A couple weeks ago the girls took to a fantastic dinner spot for birthday celebrations. Americano sits in the heart of downtown, adjacent to the stunning Joule hotel. And while in all honesty, our shared second courses mostly consisted of brick oven pizzas (no regrets, yall), the FIRST course was one to talk about. "Shaved Cauliflower Salad" was SO fresh, delicious and clean that I know I had to recreate this one myself. <br />
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I finally made it happen!<br />
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Now before I go any further, lemme get real with you. I hardly EVER buy cauliflower heads because I HATE cutting it. I may have mentioned this before...I know. I know. It's not difficult. And it's not. HOWEVER, my OCD, clean freak, texture paranoid self is on steroids around the vegetable. It taunts me with gritty, piece-y, crumbling mess that sticks to any and every surface. SO I stick to pre-chopped.<br />
All that vulnerable honesty to tell you this salad was THAT good that I put aside my personal preferences to buy heads of cauliflower...to chop myself.<br />
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So here's what I used:<br />
<ul>
<li>Cauliflower (I used white and yellow but would have added purple if they had it...for looks. duh) </li>
<li>3 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil </li>
<li>4 Table spoons Lemon Juice</li>
<li>1/4 Cup Pistachios (shelled, unsalted)</li>
<li>1/4 Cup Golden Raisins</li>
<li>Chives for garnish<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6tCALca_Vl3yZOV8gTpoRSJUEoVUMmSygAt-4n95cnirE0kJe_73ML9LzIr2ZkquWzGbxBK0_Lw-mcm-jTjk-xB0k6MjoRqEt622BnUVZ6ii2YiQwg1zHrNWrMWf9FRZTpuanT9bDoaA/s1600/IMG_1727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6tCALca_Vl3yZOV8gTpoRSJUEoVUMmSygAt-4n95cnirE0kJe_73ML9LzIr2ZkquWzGbxBK0_Lw-mcm-jTjk-xB0k6MjoRqEt622BnUVZ6ii2YiQwg1zHrNWrMWf9FRZTpuanT9bDoaA/s400/IMG_1727.JPG" width="278" /></a></div>
</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9fdZNEUqh_rh744oCKX9-csX1KV3ZtnWS7ENOFg7geSuRsZg8xAT02lzg44zGYhBhoxo7M2bkEskXupWTHdntw5ovm8ID3bQNA6ONw1KHftJVeuioQ9wzgl9P64QWTRdnortLWe2c8sA/s1600/FullSizeRender%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
(And yes, that's bottled lemon juice because I forgot to buy lemons!)<br />
<br />
Then what happened:<br />
<ol>
<li>Wash heads of Cauliflower</li>
<li>Cut out leaves and stem (be prepared for aforementioned crumblies...not to be confused with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Hoe-xxZPj4">crummies</a>...) </li>
<li>In sections, slice the cauliflower into thinly sliced "shavings". I ended up using about 1/3 of each head for the proportions of everything else here. </li>
<li>Mix the oil and lemon juice together and then dump over the cauliflower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu2wMrYBban7ef3MprwkzCNSIDf0aGrus9k6nX9doxLduDkd5o3rUNb13dEJC2BiGryYhUB1RMZlBr0PjpVBeZGFObnIe352N1ZO_WRHErhuwYreo98xWaarHB6pkCA6g4khPGpFXN6fo/s1600/FullSizeRender%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu2wMrYBban7ef3MprwkzCNSIDf0aGrus9k6nX9doxLduDkd5o3rUNb13dEJC2BiGryYhUB1RMZlBr0PjpVBeZGFObnIe352N1ZO_WRHErhuwYreo98xWaarHB6pkCA6g4khPGpFXN6fo/s400/FullSizeRender%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigcNegjn5XqR3j6mRyVH3Hb_Nj3LHOxi2Hm1rMd2-ehL1pkdDXKCHYTUKCz-62hbdHPA4HLGScoagnPcgvgLqug0t6YkEmhQZ4H2Vx3Xu5owOOQdi4ei3n-VjC1QlosRmtbwINFRjWaxI/s1600/FullSizeRender%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigcNegjn5XqR3j6mRyVH3Hb_Nj3LHOxi2Hm1rMd2-ehL1pkdDXKCHYTUKCz-62hbdHPA4HLGScoagnPcgvgLqug0t6YkEmhQZ4H2Vx3Xu5owOOQdi4ei3n-VjC1QlosRmtbwINFRjWaxI/s400/FullSizeRender%25283%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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</div>
</li>
<li>Add in the pistachios, raisins, and chives...annnnd mix. </li>
<li>Yep that easy. Serve on the side of any protein...but know that it will be difficult to not just eat the whole bowl of this!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitRLiE4EySoWUbbQrLh4zGyK71bMqv28qObxK9ANa2CTT7qkA2c0GwpXZzeef9So4yNYO9aPrMHo4pdXoeAuOdwa1V2wUw1RKou1OLwUBlfHRfxTQ3Z9HZ_BukjjxKeMPp1eV-VIglviE/s1600/IMG_1732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitRLiE4EySoWUbbQrLh4zGyK71bMqv28qObxK9ANa2CTT7qkA2c0GwpXZzeef9So4yNYO9aPrMHo4pdXoeAuOdwa1V2wUw1RKou1OLwUBlfHRfxTQ3Z9HZ_BukjjxKeMPp1eV-VIglviE/s400/IMG_1732.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div>
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While most my life is chop, chop, chop, saute, saute, saute....this chop, chop, mix was quite a welcomed and easy change of pace. </div>
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And hey what a way to welcome Spring/Summer or whatever season your corner of this moodswingin-weathered-earth is currently experiencing. </div>
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(Posted while golf-ball hail is pelting my windows. Thanks Texas weather)</div>
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Finding Fit and Conquering Cauliflower Chopping, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lisa</div>
</li>
</ol>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-18356781461866098692016-02-29T19:15:00.001-08:002016-03-01T10:28:54.507-08:00Breakfast Gathering :: The Ziploc Omelets. A couple weeks ago, our Home Group (Bible study, small group, church gals, Pilgrims & Victors...) took to horse country for our annual retreat weekend. With a slew of ladies and their eating preferences, keepin it clean and "paleo" has generally been our safest bet. Our own Erin steer-headed the planning and grocery shopping and she sure did knock it out of the park!<br />
<br />
Saturday morning, after gettin up to see the sunrise...which was so bashfully hidden behind a draping of clouds and overcast morning dew EVEN though we got up at the buttcrack of dawn to see its colors...we took to the kitchen to prep: The Omelet Bar. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fI_Z1EuE_iu-KwOR027_qXGSlZDVFnC_vp9lK1uyuhappMMSan2iuZX5yi5EucrJ49DMdpcRNiKSIzR-q1-lfZEnxJvdLkTQYmU-9OLLl5mQ2E1Da809dVSTnUC3EevhYrpJMHWeBH4/s1600/IMG_0989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fI_Z1EuE_iu-KwOR027_qXGSlZDVFnC_vp9lK1uyuhappMMSan2iuZX5yi5EucrJ49DMdpcRNiKSIzR-q1-lfZEnxJvdLkTQYmU-9OLLl5mQ2E1Da809dVSTnUC3EevhYrpJMHWeBH4/s400/IMG_0989.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
While this looks like a simple matter of eggs and veggies for days (in a flawlessly rustic Anthro-esque stylized pic), I have come to share exactly HOW this omelet bar happened...because that's the real blog-worthy moment.<br />
<br />
Erin's mom had tried this method for preparing omelets in a group setting and raved about it, so she decided we should try it for our group. Let me tell you. I was SKEP.TI.CAL.<br />
<br />
Here's what we used:<br />
<ul>
<li>Eggs</li>
<li>Coconut milk (or other milk of choice)</li>
<li>all the veggies...</li>
<ul>
<li>Bell peppers</li>
<li>Zucchini </li>
<li>Mushrooms</li>
<li>Onions</li>
<li>Brocolli</li>
<li>Tomatos</li>
<li>whatever suits your fancy but that's what we have here. </li>
</ul>
<li>Salt and Pepper</li>
<li>Ziploc baggies...no really. </li>
</ul>
<br />
Here's what we did:<br />
<ol>
<li>Boil a big ole pot of water</li>
<li>Grab a Ziploc quart freezer baggie and put your name on it in sharpie</li>
<li>Crack two eggs (or however many you fancy in your omelet) into your baggie...SO strange. And may require a friend. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgD3kdkv6uQYY1Vbt_vhDuW-Tnvk5WLhmOFYTJ1IRzl8LnEaUSdnod-CCgP39K6_0UAxgWK-jtDmJ_ZsxIqfIftGOn59PP8LoWs9Djk2-57jDx1Xki1vufqM-QmDp0M0LhSWHH1ZhmmY/s1600/IMG_0997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX6HToMuZo9ifKptGUNWoziIwmwKjO3HbmRYETZedF-4Mg13TdFzJ0AZdWvNH4-9vUgkKXN4PkvAdCsrbSsMNSaxNe1zSCDowmvvMoizNN3Y5gQ4RwOOItAZBJUuG9kIJq5_NJ-qaGkX8/s1600/IMG_0993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX6HToMuZo9ifKptGUNWoziIwmwKjO3HbmRYETZedF-4Mg13TdFzJ0AZdWvNH4-9vUgkKXN4PkvAdCsrbSsMNSaxNe1zSCDowmvvMoizNN3Y5gQ4RwOOItAZBJUuG9kIJq5_NJ-qaGkX8/s400/IMG_0993.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>Add 1/4-1/2 cup of coconut milk</li>
<li>Throw in any and all veggies desired</li>
<li>Add some salt and pepper to your baggie</li>
<li>Close the baggie and squish it all together so it's all nice and mixed like this...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgD3kdkv6uQYY1Vbt_vhDuW-Tnvk5WLhmOFYTJ1IRzl8LnEaUSdnod-CCgP39K6_0UAxgWK-jtDmJ_ZsxIqfIftGOn59PP8LoWs9Djk2-57jDx1Xki1vufqM-QmDp0M0LhSWHH1ZhmmY/s1600/IMG_0997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgD3kdkv6uQYY1Vbt_vhDuW-Tnvk5WLhmOFYTJ1IRzl8LnEaUSdnod-CCgP39K6_0UAxgWK-jtDmJ_ZsxIqfIftGOn59PP8LoWs9Djk2-57jDx1Xki1vufqM-QmDp0M0LhSWHH1ZhmmY/s400/IMG_0997.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Drop the bags in the boiling water and let them sit in it for about 15 minutes. No, I'm still not kidding. We did groupings of 4-5 baggies at a time but multiple pots could up the multi-tasking ante. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Pk44hNz5QDEIzyG1G025LVugUhqDjfUHeT6BDblQG4Em4FsOWThyphenhyphen2wlmfPFa9-7raQWohh20daKxwN4bdVCf43Q4KqQUMJZeG3_SqreQpBcwwllE94Iml1OZjX5MPl3f1oBg6GPl5r0/s1600/IMG_0998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Pk44hNz5QDEIzyG1G025LVugUhqDjfUHeT6BDblQG4Em4FsOWThyphenhyphen2wlmfPFa9-7raQWohh20daKxwN4bdVCf43Q4KqQUMJZeG3_SqreQpBcwwllE94Iml1OZjX5MPl3f1oBg6GPl5r0/s400/IMG_0998.JPG" width="300" /></a> </div>
9. You'll be able to tell that everything is cooked, once the substance is sort of solid...Here's what mine looked like when it was done:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGAKqX1HcYjBuuq9bUFhICQnA0lv05eNIbpbpImuZYCqQs39mrRucU0Z8Ytzafmm-4vmZcGTQKs6JbrAwNMih6h-QYGwrcl2l8iGu_9U5bFyrtoMOo_siMi9l5EZceWLx4YjKxzpbDraQ/s1600/IMG_1004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGAKqX1HcYjBuuq9bUFhICQnA0lv05eNIbpbpImuZYCqQs39mrRucU0Z8Ytzafmm-4vmZcGTQKs6JbrAwNMih6h-QYGwrcl2l8iGu_9U5bFyrtoMOo_siMi9l5EZceWLx4YjKxzpbDraQ/s400/IMG_1004.JPG" width="300" /></a> </div>
10. Slip it on out of the bag and enjoy! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmnrcmkeG8jKRzDIFVl82Ib-OSYb4e2LsKozuGoF_FK7obIcCZV7uqsrBebdiM5EFn2unusEsu9CDpEcXLahV6P6F5Ge_F6CBcp_1CNG4tC8hwjlPdcw8apc-VrH0ACK7SFzSFhwb0QFQ/s1600/IMG_1006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmnrcmkeG8jKRzDIFVl82Ib-OSYb4e2LsKozuGoF_FK7obIcCZV7uqsrBebdiM5EFn2unusEsu9CDpEcXLahV6P6F5Ge_F6CBcp_1CNG4tC8hwjlPdcw8apc-VrH0ACK7SFzSFhwb0QFQ/s400/IMG_1006.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
I mean, I could only eat about half of what's on my plate here on account of my <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2016/01/all-things-making-2016-my-own.html">surgery</a>, but it was still seriously delicious and so easy! <br />For anyone looking to mass produce a healthy and still personalized breakfast for your next gathering, THIS is your solution! So get to makin some Ziploc Omelets! And I leave you with a fresh make-up-less faced pic of the ladies who got their rise and shine on to prep for everyone! You're welcome!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxtBGrmWN08x_-nvqi7KxAuS8fA3ioiGcfPd-2m1k2BJyx6IqXeHoXBfehfY9uxMJF1y_mOJzP3fO008pozsn16HSLHwa1c6TUl61y1_AcaUHqxZw6y5Bdfa1lYLEh7eDiNxgXT8caC-4/s1600/IMG_0990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxtBGrmWN08x_-nvqi7KxAuS8fA3ioiGcfPd-2m1k2BJyx6IqXeHoXBfehfY9uxMJF1y_mOJzP3fO008pozsn16HSLHwa1c6TUl61y1_AcaUHqxZw6y5Bdfa1lYLEh7eDiNxgXT8caC-4/s400/IMG_0990.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
</li>
</ol>
Finding Fit, <div>
Lisa<ol>
</ol>
</div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-50879680200009277212016-01-25T20:06:00.003-08:002016-01-25T20:06:57.060-08:00Bubblin Over :: Paleo Pizza Spaghetti Pie<div>
If you happen to follow me on good ole SnappyChat (designerlisa), you may have seen some bubbling goodness last night.</div>
<div>
Well that goodness has become a staple for me in the past few years, especially when it comes to meal prep. It's easy to prepare while prepping other dishes, and it reheats like a dream!</div>
<div>
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<div>
This Paleo Pizza Spaghetti Pie is full of flavor, yummy ingredients, and feels decadent when squeaky clean!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuq21-fpz_8-9T6MGyl_LUQQ30GHN6enIHyeQEUJZEtX6WUx56MJHdo39_2urAOeV-m1h3r7IxhNFVVgTUgT5Cenfx_MkdyO6kmQrW4S0IXbralT8EesJK1RQblJKAsdcsYVYOObBDB6I/s1600/IMG_0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuq21-fpz_8-9T6MGyl_LUQQ30GHN6enIHyeQEUJZEtX6WUx56MJHdo39_2urAOeV-m1h3r7IxhNFVVgTUgT5Cenfx_MkdyO6kmQrW4S0IXbralT8EesJK1RQblJKAsdcsYVYOObBDB6I/s400/IMG_0179.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
The original recipe came from one of my favorite blogs, <a href="http://paleomg.com/">PaleOMG</a>, and I've just adapted to how my taste buds crave this concoction. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What I use:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>one spaghetti squash</li>
<li>one pound ground meat (grassfed beef or buffalo is my favorite, but turkey works great too)</li>
<li>one full jar marinara or pizza sauce (be sure to pick a compliant sauce. Trader Joe's and Sprouts have great tomato basil sauces with no sugar)</li>
<li>one package or jar of sun dried tomatoes</li>
<li>3 eggs</li>
<li>salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried basil to flavor</li>
<li>you can play with other veggies or "pizza" ingredients to add into the mixture as well! </li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
Then What:</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li> Cook the spaghetti squash...there are a lot of methods for this but here's what I did this time:</li>
<ol>
<li>Microwave the whole squash for about 4-5 minutes to get some give from the skin to make slicing open easier. Slice length-wise</li>
<li>Scoop out all seeds from each long half. I generally use a paring knife along the edges then a spoon to dig it all out.</li>
<li>Microwave each half turned upside down in half inch of water for about 8-9 minutes depending on the size of your squash...until the skin has some give. The other option would be to bake the two halves open side down for about 25 minutes at 415*</li>
<li>Use a fork to shred out all the "noodles" from the squash halves.</li>
</ol>
<li>While the squash is prepping, brown the meat in a fry pan and coat with garlic powder and some dried basil as it cooks</li>
<li>Once browned, throw in the sun-dried tomatoes, and whole jar of sauce. </li>
<li>In a 9x13 pyrex, mix the noodles and meat sauce mixture all together. </li>
<li>Whisk the 3 eggs and pour into your spaghetti mixture and integrate completely using a fork. (the eggs serve as a cheese-like bonding agent)</li>
<li>Add some salt and pepper and more basil, then bake in the oven at 415* for about 25 minutes</li>
<li>I like to broil for about 5-7 minutes at the end to get the top nice, crispy, and bubbly.</li>
<li>Let sit and then divvy up for the week or enjoy hot!</li>
</ol>
The number of servings depends on the size of your squash...and the appetite...</div>
<div>
When prepping for guys, this stretched about 4 meals, while when serving females, it goes at least 6 servings. And, of course, now that my stomach has a much smaller storage space, I got about 9 containers worth out of it....sooo this week is pretty much covered...</div>
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<div>
I love serving this up for meal preps or when having people over. The ingredients are simple and clean, but the flavor is good and dirty. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Bon-Ape-Pizza-Pie-Tite!</div>
<div>
Finding Fit, </div>
<div>
Lisa </div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-49305494150363460812016-01-07T21:16:00.000-08:002016-01-07T21:16:08.606-08:00Jab, Cross, Hook, Uppercut :: Hitting the Bag...and the Floor.Tonight we tried something totally new. Boxing!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0c76RIx1auK-ZRmsPVctbX90Nj-iPUPbftHHOhyphenhyphenIdvKrqZy6kc_Pbwewjg1wWaczAD6kKSpUCNRlyb31xqaRtiaw4c2mh2wPyIhsmIwov66EiqpsXL8G5jJ-xAIptZhMHhJtp7tzw9fM/s1600/boxing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0c76RIx1auK-ZRmsPVctbX90Nj-iPUPbftHHOhyphenhyphenIdvKrqZy6kc_Pbwewjg1wWaczAD6kKSpUCNRlyb31xqaRtiaw4c2mh2wPyIhsmIwov66EiqpsXL8G5jJ-xAIptZhMHhJtp7tzw9fM/s320/boxing.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
Sitting at just over 6 weeks post-op here (if you missed my big ole 2016 announcement on that surgery...snuggle in <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2016/01/all-things-making-2016-my-own.html">here</a>), I am DYING to get back into working out. I still have a good 3-4 weeks (give or take) until I'm cleared to do pretty much any exercise my body, specifically my abdomen, can take. But I am SO ready to get into some routine again, so I have waited, with baited breath, for 6 weeks to pass to be able to dive into something.<br />
<br />
I'm not cleared to use weights or do any core specific workouts yet, so my brain kept going back to boxing!<br />
While I know there are tons of great ways to get workouts in at home, or the athletic club or what not, I've realized the community and the consistency of showing up somewhere are best...err necessary...for me. So since boxing kept coming to mind, Becca and I decided to take on a lil free trial and see what it's all about!<br />
<br />
We got all mummified up the arms with our wraps...seriously they are like 3 miles long. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_if31Pih3_ZiI_EN13nqA9ULEVOZba4otWaCwtx7j9ryfaMSevnhLQm8y3StZoe6XjrNmLp7G92hNLrLq_1jeL7lxpu1Th1yYDITpzNsllXN8tQCOBnycZ7Gx39w87SEub8COkTHPS8/s1600/boxing4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_if31Pih3_ZiI_EN13nqA9ULEVOZba4otWaCwtx7j9ryfaMSevnhLQm8y3StZoe6XjrNmLp7G92hNLrLq_1jeL7lxpu1Th1yYDITpzNsllXN8tQCOBnycZ7Gx39w87SEub8COkTHPS8/s320/boxing4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mummy hands in our fancy new wraps!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then jumped into the "15 minute warm-up". Let me tell you. This was NOT just a warm up. My arms and legs were already giving out mid warm-up to the point of me laughing hysterically at myself.<br />
Picture it. Get down for a burpee. Go to scale it by walking yourself up. Can't even use arms to push chest off ground. I. Am. Stuck. And I'm supposed to do another one. <br />
<br />
As we tried to catch on to each set and combo, when to jab, when to hook and when to duck, I noticed the room around us. Everyone was in their own punching bag world. Doing their own version. Pushing however they could. Yet, we were still doing it all together. Not the same, but a taste of my beloved Crossfit world. PLUS there were some excellent jams that I did NOT mind doing high knees and upper cuts to. Let's be honest.<br />
<br />
While there were a lot of things I couldn't quite do yet, and a lot of things that my scaling looked more like...me laying on the floor... I could feel the rush of endorphins and soreness rush over my body all at once. And, MAN, did I miss that feeling.<br />
We had "15 minute Core" time at the end...which again...looked more like me on the floor hugging a medicine ball. But laying there, I just knew this could be good for me. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxpwq3sypt3SekCs76VZUF1t-RtGAH_ijat436Is2z2HHHQX_PWtt7T8W4vTUzHEQBJDohhVf0nHqoq59OMEeO41RNDLnq_ijUIVk9biizEkjF4u5QaQRQmy5XapcfQ_TSwXQMau8v8s/s1600/boxing3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxpwq3sypt3SekCs76VZUF1t-RtGAH_ijat436Is2z2HHHQX_PWtt7T8W4vTUzHEQBJDohhVf0nHqoq59OMEeO41RNDLnq_ijUIVk9biizEkjF4u5QaQRQmy5XapcfQ_TSwXQMau8v8s/s400/boxing3.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drenched in sweat but we look GOOD in giant boxing gloves! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UhH_h6dQ2Vx_rbhgw4Kg9QVAsLzlaZg39xcVY-pzljsrppz6EwOxe0Mvc3WxsquAK-fC6H6J7Fx26Q4wlabDzFEerelaWRYlW_LHLpaQB0uMgj3U6Xu5hwU0dSWVrU9ibhTj_WtNeSM/s1600/boxing2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UhH_h6dQ2Vx_rbhgw4Kg9QVAsLzlaZg39xcVY-pzljsrppz6EwOxe0Mvc3WxsquAK-fC6H6J7Fx26Q4wlabDzFEerelaWRYlW_LHLpaQB0uMgj3U6Xu5hwU0dSWVrU9ibhTj_WtNeSM/s400/boxing2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Also. An excellent release of tension...if you ever have any...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Becca and I left agreeing that this is a wise next step for me and something I can stick to in order to see the next results on this crazy ride!<br />
Now don't you fret my Crossfit fam, you can't keep me out much longer. I hope to be cleared and back at it in a few months because my heart longs for it, and my dead lift and push press PR's have probably halved themselves at this point. But I digress...<br />
<br />
I'm one happy girl to have tried something new, mostly sucked at it, and be ready to go back for more. Now excuse my t-rex arms for the next few days...<br />
<br />
Finding Fit,<br />
LisaLisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-24209304791585736872016-01-03T15:22:00.004-08:002016-01-03T15:25:46.696-08:00All The Things :: Making 2016 My Own. August 3rd. That's the last time I shared anything here about my journey to Finding Fit. I'm constantly reminded that when I visit the <a href="http://sarahkathrynreeves.blogspot.com/">blog </a>of one of my besties and see the link to my "Boat Season" post still hangin out there all sad and abandoned...<br />
<div>
That's a big long time people and it is certainly not boating weather anymore. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As we've just welcomed 2016, I have to admit, I'm excited to put 2015 in the books and keep movin forward. But I want my community to take those steps forward with me.</div>
<div>
There were a lot of ups and downs this past year, as I think a lot of us end up feeling at the end of each December.<br />
It's just. This time, 2015 seemed to serve up a giant helping of those downs. Back in May I posted about my <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2015/05/well-hey-there.html">PIVOT</a> to adjust my year, my attitude, my approach and my goals. Well, within a few months of that post, right about the time I last shared my kitchen follies, I felt the Lord open doors for a SIGNIFICANT pivot in my life. And I walked right on through that door, yall.<br />
<br />
Because a lot of my closest friends are aware of this change, I'm just going cut to the chase. On Tuesday, November 24th, I had a permanent, life-altering surgery. The VSG, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, better known as the Gastric Sleeve. This is a laparoscopic procedure where they permanently remove up to 80% of your stomach, without rerouting any intestines or messing with digestion or nutrient absorption, leaving a small 2-4 ounce pouch or "sleeve" shaped stomach.<br />
<br />
So if you've been following my journey or read my story <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2014/11/heres-storyof-happy-fat-kid.html">here</a>, you may be asking why? Why now? How did we get here?<br />
Friend, that is a GREAT question.<br />
<br />
I've thought for the past month how I wanted to go about sharing this part of my fitness journey, so while not being prepared to share with the interwebs, I started journaling. Yes. Like old school. Pen to Paper. Journaling. Perhaps not-so-ironically, I had this beauty of a journal I'd been waiting for the perfect topic to fill its pages with. And THIS was it. All The Things. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Fmu4ICMsPmCXb7-IGObhoyG0314h4af0XGPxGPKzGTAIeiy0RcVAaiqBK4VYiXDO4b6nLH_LaReatyG5XqIZrF76dX5TTabuDM3zDOJxt2_Mezze5Q-e9aN_u0LkG7PrjprZzgxRuq0/s1600/IMG_0582.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnE5o9YAthWLSVLkBAtxfwz5EgMlXx0sd9uaNCAqpPOMzrWhjAV5vYIHvGqNiukS3sodMmfcSnUQs-UyS1fVYlxnKorZXCeg-gvx5AjbW0VXFhuo5Iq2Enf9s6OafRfS2G7o2pU1iN5o/s1600/IMG_0582.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnE5o9YAthWLSVLkBAtxfwz5EgMlXx0sd9uaNCAqpPOMzrWhjAV5vYIHvGqNiukS3sodMmfcSnUQs-UyS1fVYlxnKorZXCeg-gvx5AjbW0VXFhuo5Iq2Enf9s6OafRfS2G7o2pU1iN5o/s400/IMG_0582.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div>
So at the risk of being long-winded, which let's face it, is pretty much always my game, I'm going to share exerts from this journal. The hope is to communicate why and how I got to this point...and also why I'm so excited about moving forward into 2016.<br />
______________<br />
I guess it all started when my oldest sister, Jen, called me back in August and told me she decided to have gastric sleeve surgery. I was somehow not surprised. She poured over all the details of her research, accumulated documents, her Q&A sessions and the many people she called for reference points. I had no question. This was the right thing for her to do; and, for the first time, I thought it may be the right thing for me. Jen emailed me a bunch of her documents she had organized all her research into. Well, they may as well have been medical research documents. Charts, graphs, comparative data of percentages and complications all leading any reasonable person to the sleeve making the most sense.<br />
Suddenly, I was obsessed with researching all the weight loss surgeries out there and anyone and everyone's results and experiences. It started to consume my thoughts. The idea of something being able to step in and help me for sure actually get to that light at the end of the tunnel I've been chasing for 5 years...errr...27 years. How could that not appeal to me??<br />
Of course, I had thought of surgery options before but was just never at that point...I even had a conversation with the ole roomie at one point. I value her opinion on all of my health journey so much, and at that time, we both knew there was more for me to try do on my own. Becca said "what if you did everything you know to do and can already do for a year straight?" and that seemed ideal to both of us at the time. We both knew that I could take off what I had regained, and break through that stupid plateau. But would it be enough? I mean, I had taken off 130 pounds on my own so why couldn't I do the rest on my own? There was still a genetically slow metabolism and a body carrying a steady number of fat cells guaranteed to fight me and my efforts. So what would it take? Would it take another 5 years?<br />
More than a year after that conversation with Becca, this idea of permanent alteration was coming up again. In the past my pride could only fathom following through with this whole "Finding Fit" on my own. My. Own.<br />
But this time was different.<br />
<br />
When I started pouring over all the research and talking more with my sister, I realized I was so exhausted and broken down.<br />
The past 5 years of fighting my weight had been some of the sweetest victories and some of the hardest heart breaks. And I was just tired.<br />
<br />
I had been doing what I needed to do. I was seeing results but I was searching for my limit...<br />
And I finally found it.<br />
<br />
The research made sense. The push to use this as a TOOL to aid in the healthy lifestyle I was already passionate about started to grow stronger. I finally saw the surgery option as just that. A tool. Not a fix. Not a cure. Not a solution or a cop-out. A tool that my poor struggling body needed, paired with exercise and smart eating, to find consistency in results and finality in these changes and physical victories.<br />
<br />
Conversations with a couple close friends, and again with Becca this time, confirmed that I was indeed a great candidate for this! I already love cooking and eating clean, nutritious foods, and I certainly love working out. With this in my arsenal, I could take on all the things I longed to do and achieve physically, growing in Crossfit, becoming a runner (maybe), outdoor adventures and so much more. Having gained the support and encouragement of sweet friends, I knew this was to be my next step and I set out to make it happen.<br />
Of course once I wanted to have the surgery, I wanted it like...yesterday.<br />
______________<br />
The waiting period for my surgery was drawn out with many-a insurance hoop to jump through. I guess I could only look at it as God refining me and preparing my story for this rather weighty alteration.<br />
<br />
Wading through the two week pre-op and the Christmas Eve feeling the night before my 5:00am check-in time, and even through a very difficult recovery after, one Psalm has stood out to me:<br />
<br />
<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption" data-gt="{"timeline_og_unit_click":"1","app_id":"124024574287414","action_type_id":"282366618453208","object_type":"instapp:photo","unit_id":"447280888645770","og_ref":"ogexp","is_intentional":"1"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">|| Psalm 46 ||</span></span></span><br />
<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption" data-gt="{"timeline_og_unit_click":"1","app_id":"124024574287414","action_type_id":"282366618453208","object_type":"instapp:photo","unit_id":"447280888645770","og_ref":"ogexp","is_intentional":"1"}">1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.<br /> 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,<br /> 3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. <br /> 4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.<br /> 5 God is within her, she will not fail; God w<span class="text_exposed_show">ill help her at break of day.<br /> 6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fail; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.<br /> 7 The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVGMZVMKg1ujtPdPIoMEtCObkiB2JzODJCmv5RxBlxKXqsZ0cYrwjavrfelhbmUi3QM2w_Gwq7e4b0p_Un4ayPvKBUQ1S5Nr07EzkEx53x0FHK5T3gVr1Gi2gCysV9nr9WgpcodUSE0xA/s1600/12278743_10102405237217223_9055886844280394164_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVGMZVMKg1ujtPdPIoMEtCObkiB2JzODJCmv5RxBlxKXqsZ0cYrwjavrfelhbmUi3QM2w_Gwq7e4b0p_Un4ayPvKBUQ1S5Nr07EzkEx53x0FHK5T3gVr1Gi2gCysV9nr9WgpcodUSE0xA/s400/12278743_10102405237217223_9055886844280394164_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I won't pretend this has been an easy process, a simple decision, or a fix-it-all solution. However, the God of Jacob has been my ever present help and reassurance that this was indeed HIS plan for wrapping up my 2015.<br />
Yes, there's so much more to it. Yes, I've had to make a lot of changes. No, I don't won't be drinking for the year. No, I cannot have La Croix (there's already been a mourning period). Yes, my meal is great...but the majority of it will be coming to-go with me...for 8 more meals. Yes, I'm already seeing great results. Yes, I'm so thankful to have my sister 3 months ahead of me, to walk through this together. No, it doesn't bother me to answer questions or talk about it.<br />
<br />
YES, 2016 is going to be a record year for me.<br />
<br />
I'm so thankful for the unending support of family and friends who have supported me through making this decision, crazy pre and post-op diets, and walking through recovery, into a whole new life.<br />
<br />
Here's to making 2016 my own...and finally revitalizing my little piece of the blogosphere...<br />
<br />
More to Come in Finding Fit,<br />
Lisa</div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-20041975219596521652015-08-03T18:44:00.001-07:002015-08-03T18:46:01.636-07:00Boat Season :: Stuffed Zucchini Boats.It may be something about summer time that just makes ya wanna be on a boat, by a boat, stuffing a boat...oh wait. Well regardless of your boat desires, I've seen a lot of people creating stuffed zucchini boats lately and I needed to jump on board. This is an easy way to get a good combination of your macros and a quick way to combine whatever produce may be in your fridge. And hey, they're cute!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbyF0hYnCFf81EpFN1BYT5kH9imEIxxZJXNrfJjRydMOqNYINc1An01-lHEd5n9v3awBE-ovTK0mZFUbgYCrlx1RpE1LEffokvv1Qmsp0QKp466OGJOaj6u-aFaHh4QzGRl9PDivbayP0/s1600/zucchini4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbyF0hYnCFf81EpFN1BYT5kH9imEIxxZJXNrfJjRydMOqNYINc1An01-lHEd5n9v3awBE-ovTK0mZFUbgYCrlx1RpE1LEffokvv1Qmsp0QKp466OGJOaj6u-aFaHh4QzGRl9PDivbayP0/s400/zucchini4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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What I Used:<br />
<ul>
<li>3 Zucchinis</li>
<li>1 pound ground turkey</li>
<li>2 cups fresh arugula </li>
<li>Homemade <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2015/01/veggies-on-veggies-on-veggies-just-add.html">jalepeno ranch dressing</a></li>
<li>Avocado oil</li>
<li>FlavorGod Garlic Lovers Seasoning </li>
<li>Shredded or julienne sweet potato for garnish </li>
</ul>
<br />
Then What Happened:<br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 375*F</li>
<li>Wash and slice zucchinis length wise and hollow out centers. I left the ends on to keep the structure in place. I used my zesting tool to help route out the centers.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5qItfi8p-tDW5epQeD3WqPyvkWL4QXnp39ZAvS3Zee4G2AslrT66VpmdUSG5atPeOJZfepk43KpINglMBDjFqoDEXCSRCY8rN_8Z_T9Lvpxl7CK4Y9eSght-INQK65TtEtezi0Avtxn8/s1600/zucchini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5qItfi8p-tDW5epQeD3WqPyvkWL4QXnp39ZAvS3Zee4G2AslrT66VpmdUSG5atPeOJZfepk43KpINglMBDjFqoDEXCSRCY8rN_8Z_T9Lvpxl7CK4Y9eSght-INQK65TtEtezi0Avtxn8/s400/zucchini.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxBoO0gI-bw9YKrxeKOGn8PUkoSgUkUAPMP_hjWAzDaUBH7NiGMvtah5W-gRqdtl12_U4cFW44FU5W__J6q9uvvYw8LvMrbf0pCpXdRvQSNXxQaW7Mx80WV4EYKAWIrh-aF7UyJXYyhE/s1600/zucchini2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxBoO0gI-bw9YKrxeKOGn8PUkoSgUkUAPMP_hjWAzDaUBH7NiGMvtah5W-gRqdtl12_U4cFW44FU5W__J6q9uvvYw8LvMrbf0pCpXdRvQSNXxQaW7Mx80WV4EYKAWIrh-aF7UyJXYyhE/s400/zucchini2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>On a foil lined pan, I laid out my boats and sprinkled them with avocado oil and my Garlic Lovers. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWHuACKDh6BoEcDvrcDxUR3ots-VucB2Px64tUMnpCsZ94MBNlPBVTHgP7Vrog0MjtwI-KhaeJ6f-hNw9NfVv4wX91ceh2tItl25SPujg4DSMcGFW9kkEKl6K6ITZhFN7EuPwXhz38cA/s1600/zucchini3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWHuACKDh6BoEcDvrcDxUR3ots-VucB2Px64tUMnpCsZ94MBNlPBVTHgP7Vrog0MjtwI-KhaeJ6f-hNw9NfVv4wX91ceh2tItl25SPujg4DSMcGFW9kkEKl6K6ITZhFN7EuPwXhz38cA/s400/zucchini3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>Bake them for about 20 minutes</li>
<li>Meanwhile, brown your meet of choice and throw in whatever other veggies you'd like to add in as well as your seasonings</li>
<li>I add a layer of the shredded sweet potato to my baking pan for the last 5 minutes to get some crispy boat toppers!</li>
<li>Pull the boats out and stuff with the meat mixture.</li>
<li>Drizzle some dressing over the boats and top with your crispy's and enjoy! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVyrKGz8yt34jkqFw-okGBJ2HBrVooklfgZP-ijhpMrw7A-B-mUOT6X3hS7tNt4_9BWwIRQnvX5Dyax4I4yM8RoNVZKuV25ltt4F6qyQ4yyInqTIr19ZKy-zOyxDCqGuK2hqp7a2Js08/s1600/zucchini5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVyrKGz8yt34jkqFw-okGBJ2HBrVooklfgZP-ijhpMrw7A-B-mUOT6X3hS7tNt4_9BWwIRQnvX5Dyax4I4yM8RoNVZKuV25ltt4F6qyQ4yyInqTIr19ZKy-zOyxDCqGuK2hqp7a2Js08/s400/zucchini5.jpg" width="400" /> </a> </div>
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This is obviously a utensil situation...BUT that texture and flavor are a GREAT combo!</div>
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So get to boating because it is STILL eight thousand degrees outside.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Finding Fit, </div>
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Lisa</div>
</li>
</ol>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-26927403480535461412015-07-22T20:53:00.000-07:002015-07-23T07:46:50.359-07:00The Do Something Jar :: My WholeLIFE101Well I posted a teaser on Instagram on Sunday night and have peaked some interest as to what exactly my next adventure is. And I'm here to divulge.<br />
Here's the thing. It's quite simple. Just DO SOMETHING.<br />
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I recapped my Whole101 challenge <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2015/07/true-satiation-whole101-recap.html">here</a>. And, well, the gist was to make "clean", Whole30 food choices for 101 days without cheating. While it was a great step back in the right direction for me, the next thing missing is my consistency in (or complete lack of) regular exercise. <<To be caught up to speed on why I have had to *temporarily* give up Crossfit, refer to my <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2015/05/well-hey-there.html">PIVOT </a>point post.>><br />
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Knowing my challenge-driven-mentality, one of the besties (for the purpose of this challenge, we'll call her CoachBecca) stepped up to push me into my next 101 days. "I challenge you to do at least 10 minutes of working out EVERY day for the next 101 days".<br />
STEP BACK. WE HAVE A WINNER! Let me assure you, I'm aware 10 minutes does not a full work out make. But the name of the game is consistency, people, and CoachBecca knows exactly how to cultivate that challenge for me. ...the Do Something Jar.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFp280DvjqATZPm9_PIqmxdcdnHM3Q2DoXjiNrMK0riB9AsG2cJDSaNdBVeLcZM4rmzDfi5f2TxzwcpqktYfJml_CoiXswDYZqpD7yJfM3De-m-bAtj5_rQMAsb7oCkPtomZij_A3wa40/s1600/IMG_7673.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFp280DvjqATZPm9_PIqmxdcdnHM3Q2DoXjiNrMK0riB9AsG2cJDSaNdBVeLcZM4rmzDfi5f2TxzwcpqktYfJml_CoiXswDYZqpD7yJfM3De-m-bAtj5_rQMAsb7oCkPtomZij_A3wa40/s400/IMG_7673.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
This magic jar is stocked full of forty 10-minute workouts designed by Coach Becca, which I can do even with the tear in my rotator cuff. Can't make it to the Addison Athletic Club? Pull a notecard out for a 10-minute workout easily done at my apartment gym or outside. Can't even get down there? Pull a pink card for a 10-minute workout easily completed in my own lil apartment. Here was tonight's little pink card:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPFzPD3aaJmeLQux9JdivpQC69MClzSvNbtheGh20N7TItljqfjs_eC2b_O57Sx5So0guiRYR2fLjRrXNQkmIcsHbJN6NjTFUUXeJjAm0dAIx7_CveEcxJIyW_4BSXtRs6IG-9gkm6AGY/s1600/IMG_7711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPFzPD3aaJmeLQux9JdivpQC69MClzSvNbtheGh20N7TItljqfjs_eC2b_O57Sx5So0guiRYR2fLjRrXNQkmIcsHbJN6NjTFUUXeJjAm0dAIx7_CveEcxJIyW_4BSXtRs6IG-9gkm6AGY/s400/IMG_7711.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yall. I could not for the life of me, get this picture to rotate...so consider it artsy.</td></tr>
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Once a card is completed I toss it in my empty jar and wait to work through all of them, before repeating a round through them all again. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhJPXDf0paC_Sxqlg3H7Hhy4cJxlhdHBnQ0oXtcLojT4IQCKS5i-MzEm2G3uhfU-uNkqTQnXls6uFbxdTWhjovhEaixBAfKp7uK0TBBhH6FNnnuYl1ApiqMIQKc3DPMPTN11A4S-QNbM/s1600/IMG_7712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhJPXDf0paC_Sxqlg3H7Hhy4cJxlhdHBnQ0oXtcLojT4IQCKS5i-MzEm2G3uhfU-uNkqTQnXls6uFbxdTWhjovhEaixBAfKp7uK0TBBhH6FNnnuYl1ApiqMIQKc3DPMPTN11A4S-QNbM/s400/IMG_7712.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Again, it's artsy. </td></tr>
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Lemme cut to the chase. For the next 101 days, I am going to get in at least 10 minutes of working out each and every day. On top of this challenge to actually DO something, I am repeating my Whole101 to be cheat free in my meals again. (A brief stint of vacation and gallivanting proved, once again, that my gut WAY prefers the clean-eatin, paleo life) All these powers combined, create the WholeLIFE101.<br />
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I'm hopeful that this will re-spark my love of workouts and craving for activity, while I'm sidelined from Crossfiting with my bum shoulder. Plus who doesn't love this adorable little magic jar full of colorful, life-giving activities, written out with love by CoachBecca?? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZk7wcQyXGufyFhVt2xBdGJknFgJLeGC7I6V7UksKrAs5REShcUagrSUri6B_ZiZiFXD0xA26VZdEI7ffyTz0rYtrngXEY40ZDM6SnqveI6qDKee_wiGRC9Zestny66Hv6u7tODNi-6XE/s1600/IMG_7674.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZk7wcQyXGufyFhVt2xBdGJknFgJLeGC7I6V7UksKrAs5REShcUagrSUri6B_ZiZiFXD0xA26VZdEI7ffyTz0rYtrngXEY40ZDM6SnqveI6qDKee_wiGRC9Zestny66Hv6u7tODNi-6XE/s400/IMG_7674.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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"Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in GOOD HEALTH as it goes WELL WITH YOUR SOUL" 3 John 1:2</div>
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So here's to good health friends, because I LIKE things that go well with my soul. :)</div>
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Venturing through my WholeLIFE101 and</div>
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Finding Fit, </div>
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Lisa</div>
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-75592189835464036222015-07-03T07:27:00.001-07:002015-07-03T07:27:31.193-07:00True Satiation :: The Whole101 Recap.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today is day 102. I've officially completed my self-challenge of a <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2015/05/lather-rinse-whole30-repeat-my-whole101.html">Whole101</a>. And let me tell you, it was ALL mental... ...until it was all HABIT. </div>
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Though the things I experienced and learned on this little challenge are no different from what I already knew to be true about "eating clean", I witnessed, yet again, how the mind <i>game </i>of "not cheating" becomes a <i>mindful </i>decision to create healthy habits, in all areas. </div>
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You know how it is. It starts out a mental game of convincing yourself it's not worth that small cheat... the appetizer or dessert everyone is sharing...the happy hour indulgence...the free sample at Costco... It's not worth it and you know it. You've got friends keeping track of your days, and your answer <i>needs </i>to be "nope, still no cheats!". </div>
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Well then something switches...and your heart and mind catch up to each other. You realize there is a reason you're doing this.You realize you feel really good about this. You realize your BODY feels really good about this. And the unwavering habit settles in. It doesn't make it easy. It doesn't make it automatic. There are still choices to be made, discernment to be had, and effort to be prepared. ALWAYS prepared. </div>
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As I've worked through this "season" of this challenge and the other events in my life over the past 101 days and 2015, I have seen over and over again, that this wasn't a food challenge. It was a focus challenge. Focus on health, focus on others, and first and foremost, focus on God. HE has given me strength and determination to do what I set out to do. HE has put people in my path to love on and pray for. HE has redirected my cravings from "non-clean" eats to a healthier me AND more hearts after HIM. </div>
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"Made to Crave" by Lysa TerKeurst is a book I started reading about a year ago; and, I admit, I'm terrible at finishing books I've started so I haven't finished it. BUT I found it fitting that in my last few days of this nutrition challenge, I came across the book and a quote I had pulled out:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xzGWnSNtksfDpLN1uh1cLmfoUgW8EeMQlNH0rI4pnvCHDkDiuDB6vMYWAX-YZXoBJjJ2QYTHMLxv2KiQe_7N9a_Ii-IXCYr1eWmlftVQWAtK9DPZG0NeYAfnq9dIlUC1_xvpGzaLHOw/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xzGWnSNtksfDpLN1uh1cLmfoUgW8EeMQlNH0rI4pnvCHDkDiuDB6vMYWAX-YZXoBJjJ2QYTHMLxv2KiQe_7N9a_Ii-IXCYr1eWmlftVQWAtK9DPZG0NeYAfnq9dIlUC1_xvpGzaLHOw/s400/unnamed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Obviously, this had stuck out to me before, but this time, in a different way. I've seen the ups and downs of so many friends and myself over the last 101 days, both believers and non-believers struggling with all sorts of life obstacles. And while I've always been a good ear to listen, I've found myself wanting, NEEDING, <b>CRAVING</b> the Lord's sovereignty, grace and sufficiency in each and every situation for each and every person...and in my own life. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha84GBRGOHoMtEDO3M68ZOgF2Q6_-v5pooKK0YxTWr2VSzWvEV4iIfZhLPxbc_quRX_FD3D-2z1Tl4yb_jItT618iTW5uC5CtxTJESDf4xCex5V-Pr7vcZ6epj-O-GCWF_GubLRE-NqI0/s1600/end-cravings1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha84GBRGOHoMtEDO3M68ZOgF2Q6_-v5pooKK0YxTWr2VSzWvEV4iIfZhLPxbc_quRX_FD3D-2z1Tl4yb_jItT618iTW5uC5CtxTJESDf4xCex5V-Pr7vcZ6epj-O-GCWF_GubLRE-NqI0/s400/end-cravings1.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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I restarted reading Dallas and Melissa Hartwig's "It Starts With Food". And while these first few chapters have been all science. Insulin, Leptin...hormones...satiety and satiation.... I've started to realize that these two books walk hand in hand. The Lord wants good things for our bodies. He wants healthy, fully functioning organs, rested and energetic bodies. But more than anything, He wants our only true SATIATION to come from HIM and HIS WORD. While I will always believe that a meal of balanced macros and sufficient water intake will help you be full and satisfied, TRUE satiation, comes from the knowing and seeking Jesus. </div>
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He has walked with me through these 101 days. He has walked with me through the past 27.5 years. He already knows what's next and He is already there.</div>
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I sent a text to the old roommate about 5 days ago realizing that it had truly taken this whole 100 days to refocus and actually feel good about what I was doing and how my body was responding. Her response was genuine excitement and happiness for me. In that, I saw God's light too. He is excited for me, no matter what small or big progress I make. He uses her, and other amazing supportive friends and family, to show me this. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWQ-L5Fr_W-iUnWrbPpfXZiTsm9YoEhK-5lewpH1IDt9-nPEoqh3x8upLZJb8N1L6N5ZSjmSwUvRddoG6Q2rFo0Das1fha7Qlv_SWymZaJHuoju8xJ1d9cntgNKRh0ihGwkM6p6Block/s1600/lysa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWQ-L5Fr_W-iUnWrbPpfXZiTsm9YoEhK-5lewpH1IDt9-nPEoqh3x8upLZJb8N1L6N5ZSjmSwUvRddoG6Q2rFo0Das1fha7Qlv_SWymZaJHuoju8xJ1d9cntgNKRh0ihGwkM6p6Block/s400/lysa.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I leave you with a different translation of my fitness scripture, 1 Corinthians 6:19. I love the relaxed and direct wording of the Message translation and that it just felt so accurate for this wrap up of my Whole101:</div>
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"Or didn't you realize that your body is a sacred place, the place of the Holy Spirit? Don't you see that you can't live however you please, squandering what God paid such a high price for? The physical part of you is not some piece of property belonging to the spiritual part of you. God owns the whole works. <b>So let people see God in and through your body</b>." <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+6&version=MSG"> (The Message)</a></div>
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Cheers to the next 101 challenge and to a summer celebratory cocktail today!</div>
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Happy Independence Day, yall! </div>
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Finding Fit, </div>
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Lisa </div>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QvRlovRmLgZyPtlLpRdwJ8jBXki-93tzK3JEGTIrzokvdYmJOWHbgfPUbfg8iQvRmbKbDJxauzuMJRVNOlV75gXEW1ueeyB4l6JllILF1QASiEJMoO2GCV9DVtUs6ovYdFe5gqB3Zdk/s320/MadetoCraveBook_1024x1024.jpg" width="215" /><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoA7AEHHP-dgdyUyr-A8zkA01Hw_jYxmnaNafrjPLWZk_ctarIUJ4QBuX0NuEAR-I_qbHjHxhr4gmeRQv8pi1Q5PeAquvNup9Mn28rjT5U67SF_8dMDsi2T4Mgt3_dfZhsufbtq-Jz7UU/s320/51EPJT9DhaL._SY344_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="213" /></div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-35778675551880306172015-06-30T19:19:00.002-07:002015-07-01T09:25:08.142-07:00Nailing Pizza Night :: Perfect Paleo Pizza.In the past 4ish years of my kitchen follies in Paleo cooking, I have always said I would try one of the ever-so-popular Paleo pizza crusts.Somehow, I have always found it too intimidating, seemingly complicated, or just not the adventure for that night. Well, this was the night!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaj0FoZTkEnkweQH1ynp6bv5uxKagnNwf5UyT5mrPc9OhdW1Qb9JQW4Rd6rZX3aK24z4tBCTWckC27ghoRUkxJydGHyrby0nUs3TqZ3vPqOA5lP0xxhKKXvIJwBqc2gP_oWD0Fusv6C4Y/s1600/PaleoPizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaj0FoZTkEnkweQH1ynp6bv5uxKagnNwf5UyT5mrPc9OhdW1Qb9JQW4Rd6rZX3aK24z4tBCTWckC27ghoRUkxJydGHyrby0nUs3TqZ3vPqOA5lP0xxhKKXvIJwBqc2gP_oWD0Fusv6C4Y/s400/PaleoPizza.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
My coworker, Karen, more affectionately called KSue, shared this <a href="http://paleospirit.com/2014/paleo-pizza-crust-recipe/">link </a>to a pizza crust from <a href="http://paleospirit.com/2014/paleo-pizza-crust-recipe/">Paleo Spirit</a>. She mentioned it being really easy, so I stocked up on the ingredients so that I could be ready to make it any point. Finally, last night, as I wrapped up day 98 of my Whole101, I decided it was time to try it.<br />
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The crust was super easy and straight forward. I may play with adding some spices and herbs next time to mix up the flavor, but trust me, it was good just as is! I left the pan in the oven while it preheated so it was nice and toasty when I transferred the parchment paper over to the hot pan. I baked my crust for 10 minutes before taking it out to add toppings and this is what it looked like. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8ohfx96ZExS0hDMj-wcZBZ5Nb7e4xtDtPZvQsr1ZMvRf5eVUL5T-7xyKR0qovOF-4u2LXJUsUVjM00A2vSzrz0UZ_B1yG6P7RCjbt-OudBdflx_e8_EP_-m2hV4e-dc0OvZq_Kj8xtc/s1600/paleopizza1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8ohfx96ZExS0hDMj-wcZBZ5Nb7e4xtDtPZvQsr1ZMvRf5eVUL5T-7xyKR0qovOF-4u2LXJUsUVjM00A2vSzrz0UZ_B1yG6P7RCjbt-OudBdflx_e8_EP_-m2hV4e-dc0OvZq_Kj8xtc/s400/paleopizza1.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
I added a thick slather of Trader Joe's Tomato Basil Marinara (check your labels!), followed by a full layer of fresh arugula. Boiled chicken from the weekend was easy to cut into thin slices to add some protein and then a nice sprinkle of sun dried tomatoes and some more sauce topped it all off. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRv8wxQzbmo2S4c26XwBnGXcvqOAL5dhbyWU9RU6Kbj6DsgYhmZGFc9VrooCxQl_W8TyHttfxmySXU3ddQP5Tg2qLiYINCwfhfj7aPuodiBYSfUCDDGpfKKE_ya_FO4YEfG2DyN7CkEaQ/s1600/paleopizza2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRv8wxQzbmo2S4c26XwBnGXcvqOAL5dhbyWU9RU6Kbj6DsgYhmZGFc9VrooCxQl_W8TyHttfxmySXU3ddQP5Tg2qLiYINCwfhfj7aPuodiBYSfUCDDGpfKKE_ya_FO4YEfG2DyN7CkEaQ/s400/paleopizza2.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
While I think this was a great combo of flavors to start, I went ahead and added a dusting of <a href="http://flavorgod.com/">Flavor God</a>'s "Everything Seasoning" and a little extra dried basil to the top for full flavor optimization!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2V0xcPRmjoFfhRml4qwknAkH_K8e-i-7rupM725EpnLz_WulU6wJsP-FTRzBWdzg53jAevagXkjMYAmxsJ3ttpYsirASyp5wEnJSf_IKYObHIEl_7G7chZrtUtPf5_daMs3ikDkWJL8/s1600/paleopizza3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2V0xcPRmjoFfhRml4qwknAkH_K8e-i-7rupM725EpnLz_WulU6wJsP-FTRzBWdzg53jAevagXkjMYAmxsJ3ttpYsirASyp5wEnJSf_IKYObHIEl_7G7chZrtUtPf5_daMs3ikDkWJL8/s400/paleopizza3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Back in the oven for about 5-6 more minutes...I just watched to see the toppings crisp up a little and make sure the crust didn't burn. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge69HwY5Wh0sNAmIDfgzT5Ob2hY7VHeCRzA8tX9AJxIClcA8dW6fvB81oU1Db0CUc3zAoQAqAurS0TTsW8_0wPHOJtIYX_-LRtNsYzmVgyQgIll1RWL4rkNABuZyE_nS7bV28Gn1gka_A/s1600/paleopizza4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge69HwY5Wh0sNAmIDfgzT5Ob2hY7VHeCRzA8tX9AJxIClcA8dW6fvB81oU1Db0CUc3zAoQAqAurS0TTsW8_0wPHOJtIYX_-LRtNsYzmVgyQgIll1RWL4rkNABuZyE_nS7bV28Gn1gka_A/s400/paleopizza4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The crust edge was perfectly crispy around the edges while the toppings all molded together like one big smear of flavor. So much so, that I didn't even notice the absence of cheese! Sorry boutcha, Dairy! The center was not to crispy while sturdy enough to still allow me to eat it just like a slice of pizza.<br />
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<br />
Yall. Some experiments take some refining and spice testing to get something worthy of bragging about. This pizza? Nailed it on the first try. I can't wait to experiment with different toppings and possibly even venture into new creations out of the crust.<br />
<br />
So bring on days 100 and 101 of my Whole101. This pizza is comin with me into the next 100 and I'm PUMPED about it.<br />
<br />
Pizza Night On, Friends!<br />
Finding Fit,<br />
LisaLisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-9303868795915771392015-06-20T13:29:00.002-07:002015-06-20T13:33:46.784-07:00Kitchen MVP Spotlight :: The Emulsion Blender.As an artist and designer, I have my hands-down favorite pens (which are stashed in every nook and cranny of my life), my go-to brushes, and the favored paper consistency. Naturally. So when it comes to the kitchen follies, there are obviously going to be some key important tools and devices, this "chef" gravitates towards for her clean eatin masterpieces. Obviously.<br />
<br />
While there are a few things that my meal prep could not survive
without, I had to start with a particular such MVP...my Cuisinart Hand
Held Emulsion Blender. <br />
<div>
Once upon a time, I was desperate to create a "paleo" mayo or other form of bonding agent for yummy dishes like chicken salad, deviled eggs and the like. But the "slowly drizzle your oil" step in every recipe was quite the turn off. When I'm meal prepping, time is golden, okay?? I finally got my hands on one of these bad boys as a present from my sister and my life is forever changed! ...or at least my dips, dressings and mayo's...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1deMPJDh-zhnzvdWk3el77KS-gc34azmpWk7WDWKAxhE9tP9B9dcV7DuR6xem-xwY555M9hUkXoNMip3O24GtufBi00bM4ZSJuYO8GTE0vNJExjCr-osNa4h1B6pO87VlK0TXphiBPA/s1600/cuisinartblender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1deMPJDh-zhnzvdWk3el77KS-gc34azmpWk7WDWKAxhE9tP9B9dcV7DuR6xem-xwY555M9hUkXoNMip3O24GtufBi00bM4ZSJuYO8GTE0vNJExjCr-osNa4h1B6pO87VlK0TXphiBPA/s320/cuisinartblender.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Finally I can dump it all in one spot and in less than 10 seconds, I have a perfect consistency, all natural, homemade dressing of any kind.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQJuGxU8QAbxE1zcuGf2HbEcQSMHY5Q9x7NUIJ7qAWlIJ_d9PSHpqYf1vQ8iQRHynAPFwj4mDNBVpeOTj-d5A5Q_kQqa6qRPuc4owLPoxwAs_IG4qpCIA_XF88rIO1Z0-i4aIme8d2ao/s1600/IMG_6627.MOV" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQJuGxU8QAbxE1zcuGf2HbEcQSMHY5Q9x7NUIJ7qAWlIJ_d9PSHpqYf1vQ8iQRHynAPFwj4mDNBVpeOTj-d5A5Q_kQqa6qRPuc4owLPoxwAs_IG4qpCIA_XF88rIO1Z0-i4aIme8d2ao/s320/IMG_6627.MOV" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I mean, it's literally magic.</td></tr>
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You've seen me rave about the <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2015/01/veggies-on-veggies-on-veggies-just-add.html">jalapeno ranch.</a> Well this is the tool that makes that happen and that's just the start of it.<br />
The base of any sort of "mayo" is as easy as<br />
<ul>
<li>2/3 cup of Avocado oil (or any other light tasting oil...EVOO...)</li>
<li>1 Egg</li>
<li>1 tsp Lemon Juice</li>
<li>1/2 tsp Sea Salt</li>
<li>1 tsp Ground Mustard </li>
</ul>
From there, it's just about spices. Dill, Parsley and some Cayenne have become a go-to for a little kick of flavor. The jalapeno, garlic powder and a little extra lemon juice make that delicious jalapeno ranch dip. Experiment with any spices, hot sauces and other flavors to produce all sorts of dips and dressings.<br />
<br />
It seems bizarre but it truly is a matter of just throwing everything in the tall container, starting the blender on low at the base and slowly raising to the top for perfection. My friends have literally seen this happen and gone "what just happened??" The response? Magic.<br />
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I store my dressings and dips in these easy little 2 ounce plastic cups with lids for easy grab and go. <br />
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While this act of magic is enough for this little guy to make the MVP list, there is actually an entire manual of other things to be done with it. With an additional whisk attachment, variable speed dial and easy to use and wash body, this tool is well worth making the kitchen cabinet cut. <br />
<br />
So run, don't saunter, and grab your own little magic machine. Your meal-prep deserves it. And so do you.<br />
<br />
Finding Fit,<br />
Lisa</div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-3019770345832923012015-05-27T20:03:00.001-07:002015-05-27T20:06:48.494-07:00Avocado Swag :: Chicken Stuffed Avocados.So I posted a picture of my dinner a couple weeks ago (I know. No surprise there.) and you'da thought I had cured stupidity or something. While I'd love to take complete credit for those avocado dream boats, I was inspired by other clean cooking master minds!<br />
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The inspiration for these shredded chicken stuffed avocados came from a find on none other than Instagram. I get the majority of my inspiration from Instagram and all the amazing Paleo, Clean-eating, Whole30 accounts out there. There are so many people sharing their kitchen follies, their weight loss journeys, and just healthy lifestyle in general; and, Instagram makes it so easy to find them. As ridiculous as #hashtags can be since, let's face it, they really just started as commentary on our own commentary, they truly are helpful in connecting with other posts and blogs to get creative juices flowing. <Insta Paleo Community Plug Over><br />
<br />
Back to those stuffed avocados...<br />
<br />
The idea came from Fed & Fit. Find her easy to follow instructions <a href="http://fedandfit.com/2013/05/03/paleo-stuffed-avocados-with-cilantro-cream-sauce/">HERE</a>. Her method of making easily shredded chicken is seriously awesome. I always end up chopping my chicken when it won't shred but this shredded perfectly with two forks and stayed perfectly moist. Will definitely be using this method for more kitchen play in the future.<br />
<br />
ANYWAY, I chose to use some of my new limited edition "Cajun Lovers Seasoning" from <a href="http://flavorgod.com/">FlavorGod</a>. You've heard me rave about these amazing seasonings and this one is no different. I gave a nice coating to the chicken after shredding it for some serious flavor!<br />
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The next steps say to stuff your avocado halves with the chicken and bake for 5 minutes at 400* while prepping your drizzle. <br />
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I opted to use my go-to Paleo Jalapeno Ranch because I find it so easy to make and have on hand and I just love the flavor :) I posted the link to this dressing back <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2015/01/veggies-on-veggies-on-veggies-just-add.html">here</a> and highly recommend getting on that!<br />
<br />
My side of choice was my <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2014/12/taking-thanksgiving-roasted-bacon.html">Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts</a> and I even sprinkled some crispy bacon pieces over the avocados for some added texture.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQwHl562-2mpNcmugtmwOImgzqDZs0dXyUC1jQ9YIU2-l8d5qZLmm4fYEKpjtsliWLTZlHSKNcCFYNAnjfmC8vRKW27MoOZrnweIwgwxThLiIsiES_jpPiCiT3UG_4HZjyL39aodQH2Jo/s1600/stuffedavos3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQwHl562-2mpNcmugtmwOImgzqDZs0dXyUC1jQ9YIU2-l8d5qZLmm4fYEKpjtsliWLTZlHSKNcCFYNAnjfmC8vRKW27MoOZrnweIwgwxThLiIsiES_jpPiCiT3UG_4HZjyL39aodQH2Jo/s400/stuffedavos3.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh out the oven, yall</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With a drizzle of the ranch and along side a scoop of sprouts, these stuffed avocados brought some serious game to dinner. I can see these making great appetizers or great Super Bowl or otherwise entertainment centered delicatessen. I even liked them cold for easy leftovers!<br />
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So get your avocado swag on, get your Instagram inspiration ignited, and...ya know...always add bacon.<br />
<br />
Stuffing Avocados and Finding Fit,<br />
LisaLisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-43751656872321490392015-05-08T20:19:00.000-07:002015-07-02T11:38:26.528-07:00Lather, Rinse, Whole30, Repeat :: My Whole101.Most people have seen my <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2015/05/well-hey-there.html">post </a>from last weekend about the recent setbacks for me in 2015. Well, one area I didn't really address was nutrition. You can probably guess that inconsistency in circumstances can cause some serious wavering in focus in all areas.<br />
<br />
As I started to truly see back-spliding in my weightloss and determination, it was one of my best friends who, as usual, spoke some truth to me. My friends and I love the "paleo", "clean eating" take on nutrition because it truly is feasible AND healthy at the same time. I truly believe you can turn a Whole30 into a lifestyle that is adaptable for anyone and their goals. The problem, as she pointed out, is that at THIS point in my weightloss journey, I am still not ready for a "lifestyle" approach. Not yet. And she's right.<br />
<br />
In my first few months of Crossfit, one of my coaches looked at me as I paused to catch my breath during a workout. She said "You should be working harder than anyone here". While someone else may have wanted to slug her, I found myself thankful. Thankful for coaches who recognize how to push me. Thankful for the acknowledgement of a hard truth. And thankful for that community I had found.<br />
<br />
I can't help but think of that moment when thinking of my "not yet". To continue my personal fitness journey that is my own and unlike anyone else's, I have to work unlike anyone else. I've noticed a lot of "not yet's" in my twenties and am continually spurred to press into God's plan when mine isn't going as plannd...and this time, I couldn't help but feel spurred to (yes, yet another) WHOLE30! But this time, it's not just a challenge to eat perfectly well for 30 days...I'm goin for 101!<br />
<br />
Why 101? Well a Whole100 sounds really cool, so I started with the thought of get another Whole30 out of the way and then continue into a Whole100. And if the goal is a refocused mindset and a continued determination, then the 1 day more than 100 just sounds like a good step towards perpetuating forward.<br />
<br />
For now, I am working my way through event after event, traveling, banquets, holidays and celebrations, without straying to a "cheat", and proving to myself and others that there truly are "NO EXCUSES". Sitting at Day 46 as I write, I know that my focus this time isn't necessarily weight loss as much as complacency loss. A calendar by my door counts the days for a visual accountability and prepped meals, snacks, and friends and family prevent that complacency from setting in.<br />
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While I'd like to say that this will be all it takes, my "not yet" has proven a serious discipline is necessary for results. SO lather, rinse, Whole30, REPEAT...because a reset is in progress, PEOPLE!<br />
<br />
Whole 101-ing AND<br />
Finding Fit,<br />
Lisa<br />
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-78880018694597230122015-05-03T20:30:00.001-07:002015-05-08T20:19:23.924-07:00PIVOT :: Adjusting 2015.Well hey there. I almost didn't recognize ya there...I know. That's on me. <br />
<br />
I'd like to blink my eyes and open them to see that I've been faithfully sharing my journey here...that I have written more than maybe three posts in 2015...that I haven't let the valleys of this year suppress my love for sharing in this type of fit community. But the truth stares me in the face on the other side of this blink. It's been a trying year so far and I've let it distract me from my goals, my determination, and my community.<br />
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<br />
Now before you go thinking this is a boo-hoo pity party post, let me assure you, I would NOT be posting if I had not found hope and perspective in all of it. If sharing this story of trial encourages one person, that's all I can ask.<br />
<br />
The long story short-ish...<br />
One sunny Sunday afternoon in January, I was headed home, when suddenly a giant hovercraft, in the form of a Honda Pilot, came crashing into my poor innocent Camry's backseat. While my confidence in Dallas drivers was at an all-time high (only Dallas-sites share my sentiments), I watched as they towed off my now totaled 13 year-old ole faithful CamCam. At that moment, I was forced to search for any feeling besides helplessness, not knowing how much this little crash would affect me for months to come...but also knowing that the Lord knew that crash was going to happen and was preparing me for many shifts in my life.<br />
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With a bad bout of whiplash (which I will hence forth never underestimate the significance of...EVER again) and some shoulder pain from the impact of my seat belt, I held off about 4 weeks before heading back to CrossFit in February. And within a week, I realized something was not right with my shoulder. Again, I walked away pretty unscathed from this wreck and was so thankful it wasn't worse, so I had no idea the possible lingering repercussions.<br />
<br />
When Strep throat, a virus, and a sinus infection all took up residence with me in the first few weeks of March, I had made up my mind that 2015 had a personal vendetta out against Lisa Marie Sorenson and would stop at nothing to suck my joy and ensure I saw nothing of my Crossfit box or consistency in my weight loss journey with very evident consequences. <br />
<br />
It wasn't until just recently, with the end of April, that I finally got some concrete answers from an MRI showing that I have a partial insertion tear in my rotator cuff and some aggravation and tendonitis in my bicep from the accident (I won't pretend to really understand what he showed me on the screen but I've gathered the gist). Thankful for an answer and a not-so-terrible one at that, my heart still sank. My head spent the last 3 months somewhere between "I'll get back to Crossfit soon enough" and "oh woe is me, when will I get back to Crossfit". And now there is a reality that my journey to fit has to take on a different look. A different strategy. A different heart posture.<br />
<br />
It was the very day that I took on the weight of my upsetting news, that I sat down in a coffee shop to prepare for that night's Bible study, drowning my sorrow in the Word with a giant side of French press. We've been studying James and learning of a genuine faith. As I read over the week's readings, I did a double and triple take as the words of <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%205">James 5:11</a> resonated through my being.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">"As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">The Lord is full of compassion and mercy."</span></b><br />
<b><i><span class="text Jas-5-11"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">I won't equate my trials to those of Job, but I do believe that God uses his story </span><span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">to bring comfort to those in trials, big and small, and to refine our hearts and minds to turn only to HIM for strength, endurance and expectation that HE is being glorified in it all. </span><span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">We are not promised sunshine and lollipops. We are promised there WILL BE trials, but; my Lord IS compassionate and merciful and IN CONTROL. Where my type-A, control freak side is screaming with weakness, He is made strong. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">It has taken the outpouring love and wisdom of several gospel-sound friends and loved ones to spur me towards the understanding that this shift in my life is in God's Will and, as long as I walk openly with Him in this, He will be glorified. He has interjected over and over again in this season, this year of 2015, and shown me where I can be pressing so much further into Him. </span><br />
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366"><br /></span>
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">So I press into this season as the first days of May come trickling in. I won't pretend this isn't taking a daily humbling and that I'm not having to strive for a desire to seek my fitness goals in other ways. I am positive my pride will take a hit when this once PR'ing push press girl will be doing simple movements with tiny weights in physical therapy starting this week. But with a community of support and a shiny new membership to the Addison Athletic club (swanky, I know), this girl is ready to continue her journey with a slight pivot (PIVOT). </span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">I've been perpetually reminded of the lyrics of a song from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEQnoE7SnZw">Elevation Worship</a>, that seem so fitting and the chorus is such:</span><br />
<i><br /></i><b>I will look up for there is none above you</b><br />
<b>
I will bow down to tell you that I need you</b><br />
<b>
Jesus, Lord of all</b><br />
<b>
Jesus, Lord of all</b><br />
<b>
I will look back and see that you are faithful</b><br />
<b>
I look ahead believing you are able</b><br />
<b>
Jesus, Lord of all</b><br />
<b>
Jesus, Lord of All</b><br />
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366"><br /></span>
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">While my circumstances are ever-changing. He is ever faithful, ever present, ever able. </span><br />
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366"><br /></span>
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">New strategy. Same Girl. Same Goals. Same journey. Same God.</span><br />
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">Still Finding Fit,</span><br />
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">Lisa</span><br />
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366"><br /></span>
<span class="text Jas-5-11" id="en-NIV-30366">OH and I promise to be more faithful in posting. </span></div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-64111043560751485442015-03-09T20:14:00.002-07:002015-03-30T20:33:25.657-07:00The Best Part of Wakin Up :: The Breakfast Bowl. <br />
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The best part of wakin up? Well there better be some folgers...or otherwise strong black coffee...in my cup because this girl is NOT a morning person. What does that mean for morning time meals? BE PREPARED. <In the most non-scary-evil-uncle-lion-Mufasa scenario possible.> While typical breakfasts foods run the gamete of sugary cereals to sticky syrup drenched other forms of grains and carbs, take heart! There are many a fun ways to get your clean on in the AM hours. <br />
<br />
And while I plan to share several breakfast options, it would be a crime for me to start anywhere but with the beloved Breakfast Bowl! The tasty combo of meat, eggs and hash has become a staple in the foodie community as many a hot-foodie-spot have their own version of this here in Dallas. And, I mean, what's not to like?? Meat? Good. Eggs? Good. Sweet potato hash? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=id0duLjvbOg">Gooood</a>.<br />
<br />
So to take the restaurant lovin home, I started making my own Breakfast Bowl a few years ago and continue to adapt it to my meal preps. It's very straight forward, stores easily, and reheats beautifully. <br />
<br />
THE Breakfast Bowl...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZorltb4ylgKoXQReKmGrQndwNhlLoVrAf8RjYx0QDvgweCgDPX8eIu1Rav4Jh6gSAdsTZq2cHLubAO6_hM5jrkpW93qPpwTVWhyphenhyphenkcI0kAjMbTD8cATJAMxH1-7xppf1j5aIZx5lKNgBk/s1600/breakfastbowl4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZorltb4ylgKoXQReKmGrQndwNhlLoVrAf8RjYx0QDvgweCgDPX8eIu1Rav4Jh6gSAdsTZq2cHLubAO6_hM5jrkpW93qPpwTVWhyphenhyphenkcI0kAjMbTD8cATJAMxH1-7xppf1j5aIZx5lKNgBk/s1600/breakfastbowl4.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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What I use:</div>
<ul>
<li>2-3 sweet potatoes</li>
<li>1 pound of ground meat (bison, beef, turkey all work perfectly!)</li>
<li>12 eggs</li>
<li>Seasonings of choice (I use <a href="http://flavorgod.com/">FlavorGod </a>"Everything Spicy")</li>
<li>Avocado oil for cooking (You can sub whatever oil you are comfortable with. I would stick to Avocado or Coconut though as these cook at higher heats and retain nutrients better than olive oil)</li>
<li>A few strips of bacon for garnish and some grease factor</li>
</ul>
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Then What Happens:</div>
<ol>
<li>Wash and dry your sweet potatoes. Chop them into about 1/4"-1/2" sized cubes as evenly as possible to help them cook consistently. (you can peel but I prefer the texture of the skin on)</li>
<li>Heat a large skillet about with some avocado oil coating the base over medium-high heat.</li>
<li>Dump in your sweet potatoes and toss around in the oil. Simmer for a minute and then stir around before covering with a lid to allow to steam for a small bit. </li>
<li>Coat in your seasonings (if you don't have Flavor God, fix that. In the meantime...garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin and coriander make a great combo!)</li>
<li>Continue to stir and simmer, turning the heat down after about 5 minutes of the potatoes steaming. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZmsDqcN6hlK3ievD5Qw-BKwG477H3wrwNfDxkxlsm9hK2E8HgH7phPhvqHUXC5mfghCYiUy5iSYsf_oBFBxiOYJTtSZ2284g6EFvrhsXusCRY_KSfLZhnZC7gzU0vLHyFB3Aec1xVy6Q/s1600/breakfastbowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZmsDqcN6hlK3ievD5Qw-BKwG477H3wrwNfDxkxlsm9hK2E8HgH7phPhvqHUXC5mfghCYiUy5iSYsf_oBFBxiOYJTtSZ2284g6EFvrhsXusCRY_KSfLZhnZC7gzU0vLHyFB3Aec1xVy6Q/s1600/breakfastbowl.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>Meanwhile get your meat cooking in another skillet. Coat the meat in same seasonings and brown meat completely.</li>
<li>Once the meat is brown, dump into the sweet potato pan to mix up. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ56czHTvlD7mkTEV2K1iLOHx7ylh5cyP9gyk-sCQVp0S5FMRADG4NaO4SVO4TvGuJ4X_AviyRD4LXTY6kpi8HYYtVPN958_BFnUyRCBBnsy20Tbg22yHfF5m-1wLfw02RuusThuOI_q0/s1600/breakfastbowl2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ56czHTvlD7mkTEV2K1iLOHx7ylh5cyP9gyk-sCQVp0S5FMRADG4NaO4SVO4TvGuJ4X_AviyRD4LXTY6kpi8HYYtVPN958_BFnUyRCBBnsy20Tbg22yHfF5m-1wLfw02RuusThuOI_q0/s1600/breakfastbowl2.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>I use the same meat pan and the left over juice to scramble up a dozen eggs</li>
<li>Add seasonings to the eggs and cook completely, flipping around. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJIBXCTbsh1CRgmFTl6MtFgQSYAEzg3dojz6IxKe6C1DvfjgcAIdR1xj5iQINIAUKrzbDjO-qcFkYpo-p-Udr5jIVeD5b9_gWEtpwkrJbKBkRSaIc_ud1fznENg1eJqWaw-I2vVijwJI/s1600/breakfastbowl3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJIBXCTbsh1CRgmFTl6MtFgQSYAEzg3dojz6IxKe6C1DvfjgcAIdR1xj5iQINIAUKrzbDjO-qcFkYpo-p-Udr5jIVeD5b9_gWEtpwkrJbKBkRSaIc_ud1fznENg1eJqWaw-I2vVijwJI/s1600/breakfastbowl3.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>Dump the eggs in and let everything simmer together on low for a couple minutes!</li>
<li>The last thing I like to do is add in some crispy bacon all broken up in and over my divided up bowls. to add a little bacon grease and some crunch!</li>
</ol>
Add either some avocado slices or guacamole to the top along with a little salsa if you like for some sweet flavor!<br />
<br />
It truly is an simple prep and a great way to be prepared to not fall victim to "breakfast foods" and start the day out right!<br />
<br />
Love and Bacon Garnish, <br />
Finding Fit,<br />
Lisa<br />
<br />Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-64852138729764796752015-01-28T19:21:00.000-08:002015-01-28T19:21:18.506-08:00Life Hack :: Makin the Most of Brown Bananas.While bananas aren't as mean as avocados, getting the perfect bushel with the perfect lasting ripeness is still quite the feat. Too green and you wait a lifetime to eat one, too yellow and brown spots for days! I mean who eats all their bananas in one day?! <don't do that. They are full of vitamins but also lots of naturally occurring sugar> Shortly into the week, you may encounter the all too common case of the browning nanners...something like this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1zEsSrVND2kQa3eVFqcKE5Tlv8k4-DdmWI4xUxr18f7kAnFiMbBzt275jKHLOwvp5VX96bLd891Tl9JrSTAuDIrUYL3hWAf0ZhS1lyjE5kDtrq20zcPjbTXRaWDGmgFU49zgeKTRMjg/s1600/bananas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1zEsSrVND2kQa3eVFqcKE5Tlv8k4-DdmWI4xUxr18f7kAnFiMbBzt275jKHLOwvp5VX96bLd891Tl9JrSTAuDIrUYL3hWAf0ZhS1lyjE5kDtrq20zcPjbTXRaWDGmgFU49zgeKTRMjg/s1600/bananas.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
Well I'm here to give you a couple tasty life hacks to put those ripe nanas to good use and not waste anything...while still keepin it clean!<br />
<br />
One favorite trick is these frozen almond butter banana bites. How often do you just need one little treat to end your evening with? Ladies, am I right? Well these are guilt-free and delicious and use your browning bananas. Simply slice your nanner into thin discs and then layer almond butter between two discs.<Don't forget to be checking your almond butter labels to ensure you're only getting ALMONDS and maybe sea salt if you prefer it><br />
I line a flat plastic container with them and stick them in the freezer. They'll be ready as soon as an hour or two later. Easy to grab a few after a meal and nip that lil sweet tooth in the butt.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVl6kFKQ5-nPrJA4I5brfiBJv0DWtt0CgbOEWHPqdVxOyGU1wtRkZK674HBFT2HITvpXc50UjxQLV2sPHGpsRRZ6x849NbTRK703NiZU6pHQZRXdafTg30Cd4xtE7K_vnz4G2i3YY-pGw/s1600/99a538b089f111e2b44322000a1f92df_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVl6kFKQ5-nPrJA4I5brfiBJv0DWtt0CgbOEWHPqdVxOyGU1wtRkZK674HBFT2HITvpXc50UjxQLV2sPHGpsRRZ6x849NbTRK703NiZU6pHQZRXdafTg30Cd4xtE7K_vnz4G2i3YY-pGw/s1600/99a538b089f111e2b44322000a1f92df_7.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Second hack with those brown bananas also involves a frozen treat. Ever miss ice cream?!? Again, I somehow feel it appropriate to direct that question at the ladies... Well this is the easiest faux "ice cream" you'll ever make and it's awesome!<br />
When the bananas are brown, peel them and break them into 3 or 4 pieces each and drop them in a gallon size freezer ziplock bag. I try to always have bananas in the freezer to be prepared to whip up this little treat. Depending on how many people you're making it for, throw 1 or 2 bananas worth of frozen pieces into a food processor. The taste of the over-ripe bananas is already sweet so you can scoop it out and eat as is:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4Fz_rizZXXWUOGS3yBec6AbQwhc3Uru5a2t_L-asCbPJPw6DKGqF_qEEfTHnb5mmk_emfPQ_MoTFqLYAXjZFvSOubJZsZX_F8XDREJK-Rk6_0tWH3CbjEk19TFULn4P-ACdoqGtCL74/s1600/f3973b9a2a1d11e2879322000a9f1376_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4Fz_rizZXXWUOGS3yBec6AbQwhc3Uru5a2t_L-asCbPJPw6DKGqF_qEEfTHnb5mmk_emfPQ_MoTFqLYAXjZFvSOubJZsZX_F8XDREJK-Rk6_0tWH3CbjEk19TFULn4P-ACdoqGtCL74/s1600/f3973b9a2a1d11e2879322000a9f1376_7.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
OR you can toss in some other optional items. Sometimes I mix in unsweetened cocoa powder, a spoon of almond butter, or even frozen cherries for some zing! I mean look at these pictures. You would never know this wasn't real ice cream...and you can leave the guilt with BlueBell. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRAHyvljmOoZKjF6y6RXTp18p-Vp8bY5HBiHnuDAGH33w1pRvfmYiMqmwzy1iwMOuS0YFSwxvRS0GaXULl8gs2fTJKjUbgRHglE15YA5zWdOzdkUKj65YlTVfALh8d3t6shiICOTaIe8/s1600/8a4544c495c111e2a30c22000a1f9683_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRAHyvljmOoZKjF6y6RXTp18p-Vp8bY5HBiHnuDAGH33w1pRvfmYiMqmwzy1iwMOuS0YFSwxvRS0GaXULl8gs2fTJKjUbgRHglE15YA5zWdOzdkUKj65YlTVfALh8d3t6shiICOTaIe8/s1600/8a4544c495c111e2a30c22000a1f9683_7.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Just a quick treat tip to look like a brown banana boss.<br />
Finding Fit AND Frozen Treats,<br />
Lisa<br />
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-15246796611705933542015-01-11T20:50:00.002-08:002015-01-11T20:51:04.357-08:00Veggies on Veggies on Veggies :: Just add Paleo Jalapeno Ranch.I posted a photo recently on my Instagram (@designerlisa) professing my desire to include more raw veggies in my meals.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6OiooajeqtEGzw_Whysuejnca4ykbSCxmCMFaLVxl9xZxUQ6y0WC5Yycn4M9w79D9T2CYRxlVhvbH70lFYmT5Bp-JqH5LvEODDZsGHaVwyUPKRDC-fR3Wepa8Ayq2Fq47DXlVS39afM/s1600/saladssss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6OiooajeqtEGzw_Whysuejnca4ykbSCxmCMFaLVxl9xZxUQ6y0WC5Yycn4M9w79D9T2CYRxlVhvbH70lFYmT5Bp-JqH5LvEODDZsGHaVwyUPKRDC-fR3Wepa8Ayq2Fq47DXlVS39afM/s1600/saladssss.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
Hopefully the reasoning is somewhat common sense to most. Anything in it's truest form is going to be the most beneficial to your body. That is, afterall, the overriding point of eating in a "clean" or "paleo" style lifestyle. We were intended to consume real, true food and it was intended to fuel our bodies in a medicinal way...and any time the food is morphed or modified or manipulated into something processed and different, it becomes just the opposite of medicine...harmful to the body. Now, don't hear me saying that we can't cook and create beautiful culinary delishness in the kitchen...I'm simply referring to using real, whole foods in the way that we create the concoctions.<br />
<br />
While that may seem a bit of a rabbit trail, it is true that the more you cook, steam, bake, fry your beautifully healthy and fresh produce, the more your nutrients are forced out of the food. It is not reasonable to assume you can just simply eat raw veggies all the time and not go a little insane. Cooking and making fun variety out of real foods is still HEALTHY and good for your body. BUT, the point of this post is to encourage mixing in plenty of RAW veggies. The raw, pure forms of vegetables and fruit are so full of wonderful vitamins and minerals, natural anti-inflammatorys and anti-oxidants, that you'd be crazy to not want to feed your body with these natural medicines.<br />
<br />
This past week, I decided to start adding in more salads in my meal preps, in effort to get more raw produce in my daily intake. But salads don't have to be flavorless, mundane or boring...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0iHSlIoSyGTXzRI4Zk3pl6xYjnUk0YbKvxbOmFO21WKe5uWy43ZvDo0iXBRo6mKh_Dp9viGx0ixFem9rm4MG5U5voFu_gf7Yz2AAvG62Awhbj8DAvIfH8r5lNr-XHaPfDYf4v-uJP5ng/s1600/saladsss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0iHSlIoSyGTXzRI4Zk3pl6xYjnUk0YbKvxbOmFO21WKe5uWy43ZvDo0iXBRo6mKh_Dp9viGx0ixFem9rm4MG5U5voFu_gf7Yz2AAvG62Awhbj8DAvIfH8r5lNr-XHaPfDYf4v-uJP5ng/s1600/saladsss.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
No way that's a "healthy" salad, right? WRONG. This colorful beautiful salad is full of real, fresh, raw ingredients, and...incidentally, has been the object of much desire in the office kitchen too! Fresh veggies, clean meat, and a delicious home-made dressing to top make this a healthy and flavorful lunch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvskU9k4u0cqh6VhVpTsT9BkiwfbCypZJSiFrb-p_RLhpHWWSoLEiPwpT-2stbF56unhQFB4NIJUZrCZzDPeajfaUr1vFLsqajJ7vJ3PjzvBmQyc18UF2v7MBpih9Z50rJHvg9V-1jAeY/s1600/salads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvskU9k4u0cqh6VhVpTsT9BkiwfbCypZJSiFrb-p_RLhpHWWSoLEiPwpT-2stbF56unhQFB4NIJUZrCZzDPeajfaUr1vFLsqajJ7vJ3PjzvBmQyc18UF2v7MBpih9Z50rJHvg9V-1jAeY/s1600/salads.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
So here's what I tossed in here to keep it simple, from bottom to top:<br />
<ul>
<li>Cherry Tomatoes </li>
<li>pre-chopped Veggie Mix from Trader Joe's (cabage, celery, radishes, jicama, carrots...all kinds of goodies)</li>
<li>Broccoli Slaw also from Trader Joe's</li>
<li>Arugula, and/or other power greens (spinach, kale, chard...)</li>
</ul>
Notice the name of the game is pre-done...while it is great to have time to prep, chop and dice all the veggies, I also have to admit that I find HUGE value in the ready-to-go various veggie options at Trader Joe's. This makes this meal so fast and easy...<br />
<br />
With the base of the salad easily done, I just cook up some meat to put with the salad. In this instance, I cooked up some ground turkey doused in some <a href="http://flavorgod.com/">Flavor God</a> seasoning. I store separately to either heat or mix in cold when I dump it at work. Any kind of good quality meat you like with your salads will do from tuna and chicken to turkey, beef or bison. Pick your poison!<br />
<br />
The other element of prep is the salad dressing. I go through phases of liking just some olive oil and lime juice or vinegar...but lately (as seen in a lot of my posts) I've become addicted to a tasty homemade concoction that I came across on the <a href="http://livinglovingpaleo.com/">Living Loving Paleo</a><a href="http://livinglovingpaleo.com/"> </a>blog! She has a wonderful variety of delicious recipes. And her jalapeno ranch has rocked my world! I've included a link the the recipe <a href="http://livinglovingpaleo.com/2014/09/16/yam-fries-jalapeno-ranch/">HERE</a>! It is truly delicious and adds great flavor to anything instantly! With an avocado oil base, it is a great source of healthy fat and a small bit goes a long way. <br />
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For the purpose of my salads on the go, I have divided mine into small 2oz containers. I also bring a little container with some Frank's Red Hot Sauce as I have a sudden obsession with a lil kick and love the mix of a little Frank's in my salad too.<br />
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I bring my mason jar, my meat, and my little condiments to work. I keep a large mixing bowl there which I use and wash each time I bring a salad so I can easily just dump everything together, mix it well, and ENJOY! <br />
<br />
It's a seriously wonderful way to change up the ole salad and bring in lots of nutrients and LIFE to your meal prep!<br />
<br />
Mix and dump yall!<br />
Finding Fit,<br />
Lisa Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-79775612157734139152015-01-01T11:00:00.001-08:002015-01-01T11:01:24.216-08:00Resolving to Resolve in 2015.You wouldn't want to leave a James Bond movie, not knowing if Bond saved the day AND got the girl.<br />
You wouldn't want to make it through a mystery novel to find the last chapter missing with all your answers.<br />
And we all definitely needed to know if Rachel got off the plane (spoiler...she did.)<br />
Common thread? Resolution.<br />
<br />
There
is a constant need for resolve in our lives. Even if books, movies and
Friends episodes aren't your pick (though you should reconsider the
FRIENDS thing. I mean, come on, she got off the <a href="https://video.search.yahoo.com/video/play;_ylt=A86.JyA1YKNU9lIAJ8EPxQt.;_ylu=X3oDMTBsOXB2YTRjBHNlYwNzYwRjb2xvA2dxMQR2dGlkAw--?p=did+she+get+off+the+plane&tnr=21&vid=FDEF1D66F3C5BC00DA8FFDEF1D66F3C5BC00DA8F&l=171&turl=http%3A%2F%2Fts3.mm.bing.net%2Fth%3Fid%3DUN.608003623892223642%26pid%3D15.1&rurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DXl6yy6a3emw&sigr=11b477jpl&tt=b&tit=Friends+-+I+got+off+the+plane&sigt=10tpk49sb&back=https%3A%2F%2Fsearch.yahoo.com%2Fyhs%2Fsearch%3Fp%3Ddid%2Bshe%2Bget%2Boff%2Bthe%2Bplane%26ei%3DUTF-8%26hsimp%3Dyhs-001%26hspart%3Dmozilla&sigb=135uv4jgb&hspart=mozilla&hsimp=yhs-001">plane</a>!!!), there is a
need to finish, complete or tie off all the loose ends in our lives,
whatever they may be. We seek to see a before and after, a beginning and
an end, a final result to give validation to whatever journey or
process it took to get to that point. <br />
<br />
You're probably a
sharp cookie and can see where this is going...yes, I referenced
cookies...and yes, I'm forging head first towards a talking-to about New
Year's "Resolutions"...<br />
Now
before you think I'm ringing in the new year as some cynical party
pooper, let me assure you I am your glass half-full, rainbows and
butterflies (and compromise), goal setting, dream chasing, everyone's
foam-finger-waving-cheerleader, let the good times roll, girl.<br />
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With
that said, I admit I have a hint of scoffed eye-roll reaction any time I
see the ads for "New Year's Resolutions" and the posts pop up on social
media outlets. How many of us have set a lofty New Year's Resolution,
fallen short, messed up or jumped the tracks within weeks, subsequently
taking on either disappointment in your own failure or a
laugh-at-yourself attitude in celebration of the reality that we knew we
set ourselves up to fail anyways?? I heard my pastor say "if we succeed, it goes to our head and if we fail, it goes to our heart". He was talking about the building of character in regards to trial and perseverance through failures and successes. Rather than skeptically laughing at our inevitable let downs, why don't we fix our hearts on joys and lessons of each up and down. Rather than posting some formulated list (I'm a list maker, so I'm not hating on my fellow kind), start focusing on the small adjustments that will posture your heart and mind in a place to truly be in God's Will and I truly believe your personal best will just become a side effect of that!<br />
<br />
It's the list of resolutions put out
there as some pretty veneer of what we think others believe our lives
should look like. It's the list of ideals we see as missing from our lives, even if they may not truly be reasonable for ourselves. It's the
comparison to what others have done and what others may have that paints
a rosy picture in our heads of what we have to do to get there. My
issue with it is just that...when we are searching to match our lives to
others' rosy picture lives and set grand "resolutions" that truly won't
have the resolve we search for. <br />
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<br />
I
do not want to discourage goal setting here. I just know that it is easy to decide that January 1st starts some grand
gesture to completely change your life...and it often comes with no
resolve by the following December. So why don't we think of ways we need to better our behaviors, our thoughts, and our habits, our prayer life, our attitudes...and start to work towards that character. After all, "where the ideal is lacking, Grace abounds" so even as we fall short, God's grace has already stepped in as more than enough.<br />
<br />
As the quirky Kathleen Kelly said in <i>You've Got Mail</i>,
"Whatever anything is, it oughta begin by being personal". And while we
have to forgive Meg Ryan for strutting like a dude that whole movie, the
girl has a point. Is it personal? Does it come from a place of wanting
yourself to be better for you, or moreover, better because you know you were made for more? Because you are not your own? To make strides towards taking on your role as child of God? The process of "becoming" is a gritty one and there is no true final moment of "oh I'm done".
Your button doesn't pop. The timer doesn't ding.<br />
We are not promised a garden of roses in this life. But we did have 365 days in 2014 and what will be the difference over the next 365 days until we are ringing in 2016 with a whole new list of resolutions? Character. Character is to be built in trial, perseverance, and endurance as in Hebrews 12: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses,
let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily
entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us"<span class="p">.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
With the top five resolutions set each year being the following...<br />
<ol>
<li>Lose Weight</li>
<li>Get Organized</li>
<li>Spend Less/Save More </li>
<li>Enjoy Life to the Fullest</li>
<li>Stay Fit and Healthy</li>
</ol>
How could there possibly be anything wrong with picking New Years Resolutions? Especially coming from a girl who started a blog about seeking her personal best? There isn't. I am all for working to better yourself especially if you can recognize the season you're in as God's refinement and gritty work in your life. <br />
But my plea here today, is that while listing off all the wonderful new beginnings 2015 will bring you, you remember we were made for more. Our worth and value is not in our goals and resolutions and whether we see the outcome desired. Our worth and value is in our Creator. And. Well, my heart skips a giddy beat when I think of the best and ultimate resolve that is spelled out in <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+11%3A15-19&version=NIV">Revelation</a>.
And even then, it's a beginning...to eternity with my Jesus. This is
the only resolution which my identity and worth reside within and I
couldn't be more thankful.<br />
<br />
So ring it in guys, For Auld Lang Syne,<br />
Finding Fit....even in the new year,<br />
Lisa <br />
<br />
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-81208479188818724842014-12-23T18:43:00.005-08:002014-12-23T18:44:45.310-08:00We've Had a Request, People :: Veggie Packed Meatballs.Welp. We've had a request. A friend of mine asked me what to do when she is needing to eat something on the way to a workout, but doesn't have the time to fix something right then or needs it on the go. This is a great question AND a very important element of feeding your body at the right moment.<br />
<br />
While I must remind you I am NO expert or nutritionist, I know some stuff. There are two key windows to fueling your body to really take advantage of your hard workout efforts! One would be the hour or so leading up to a workout and the second would be that 15-30 minutes after a workout when your body is recovering and makin any gainzzz you can off your ever-so-recent hard work. Just like when you eat at any point during the day, your snacks are just as important to keep completely balanced with your macro-nutrients. Getting a balance of protein and carbohydrate (come down people...this is referring to carb dense, nutrient-ful veggies, not glowing buttered rolls and other complex carbs) is vital to serving your body fuel and not consuming wasted, invaluable calories. <br />
<br />
My favorite easily prepped such snack is the Veggie Packed Meatball. I prep these at the start of the week and store them by two's for an easy to grab snack on the way to Crossfit or as an afternoon pick-me-up.<br />
A lot of people have their own variations, and to be honest, I change it up based on what I remember to buy each week but I'll share the gist!<br />
<br />
What I use:<br />
<ul>
<li>1 pound ground meat of choice (ground turkey or ground beef both work great)</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>5-6 strips of cooked bacon (I prefer to bake mine to be crispy)</li>
<li>1 cup/or a handful of baby carrots</li>
<li>2-3 handfuls of leafy (LEAFY) greens...I use spinach, kale and chard or whatever other power greens I have on hand</li>
<li>1/2-3/4 cup of sun dried tomatos</li>
<li>1 shallot </li>
<li>a little salt and pepper</li>
<li>really, the list can be endless, zucchini, shredded sweet potatoes, peppers, green onions or anything like that will be great add-ins!</li>
</ul>
<br />
Then What:<br />
<ol>
<li>Heat oven to...you guessed it, 415!</li>
<li>Pulse all the veggies in a food processor along with the bacon. You can puree if you prefer but I like it to look like this with some chunks still in there for better texture. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</li>
<li>Let's get messy...in a large bowl, hand mix the veggie mix with the ground meat, salt and pepper and one egg. Hand mix it all until thoroughly incorporated. </li>
<li>I line a deep pan with foil as there will be some juices baking out from the meat and grease/spray with some EVOO</li>
<li>Create ball shapes about 1.5-2" in diameter and spread out evenly across your pan</li>
<li>I like to drizzle a little Frank's Red Hot Sauce across the meatballs for some added flavor baked into the top!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</li>
<li>Bake the meatballs for about 25-30 minutes depending on your oven. You can check them to see how the meat looks and I often cut one open to do a little taste test if they look done!</li>
<li>I put these in containers of 2 and eat them cold on the way to Crossfit or sometimes after. I also have been known to eat a few of these for breakfast in a pinch and they're great reheated or cold....in my opinion.</li>
</ol>
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Having things like this already prepped and packed full of nutrients makes it easy to grab the right kind of snack and keep that metabolism going throughout the day!<br />
<br />
Get to snackin!<br />
Finding Fit,<br />
LisaLisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-815378577287886143.post-88939892431950549482014-12-14T21:35:00.001-08:002014-12-14T21:39:48.345-08:00My Meal Preps Take 2 :: The Juggling Act. Well a two month wait for the second installment on my meal prepping was probably a little overkill, but I've been busy, people. And now that December is half-way over, let's just say we're lucky I've remembered to breath...and I know I'm not alone on that feeling.<br />
<br />
I believe the last meal prep process blog ended somewhere around you've got a food haul: now what? (Check out that <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2014/10/my-meal-preps-take-1-whole-food-and.html">meal prep post</a> to see what sort of things are making it home with me from the grocery stores) So today, we'll focus on getting from shopping cart to this:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />
The easiest way for me to explain my own chaotic process is to walk you through my tasks. Some Sundays I get home with all my loot and have a sudden feeling of overwhelming impossibility...so I just turn the oven on. First things first, people. Oven at 415 and I know I can make anything happen.<br />
<br />
Turning around from the oven, your counter may look something like mine...well let me tell you how I start. Bacon. Just bacon. Bacon seems like a perfectly reasonable and thoughtful way to start a meal prep. I throw a tray of bacon in the oven to crisp up while I move on to other elements. And, let's face it, once the bacon is employed, everything else just falls into place. <br />
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For this meal prep, I knew I was planning to prep a couple dishes to bake and needed to get those in the oven and then could tend to more stove top elements.<a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2014/10/comfort-foods-paleo-shepards-pie.html"> Paleo Shepard's Pie</a> and <a href="http://paleomg.com/almost-5-ingredient-pizza-spaghetti-pie/">Pizza Spaghetti Pie</a> took precedence on this. Browning meat takes little attention at first so I started to chop my sweet potatoes for breakfast bowl while monitoring the meat. Balancing two stove top elements while prepping other veggie elements like the mashed cauliflower top for the shepard's pie and baking the spaghetti squash for the pizza spaghetti becomes quite the juggling act. Phone, microwave and oven timers are deployed in the hopes of keeping the balancing act going.<br />
<br />
Removing the bacon, I choose a veggie (broccoli or <a href="http://findingfitlisa.blogspot.com/2014/12/taking-thanksgiving-roasted-bacon.html">brussels sprouts</a>) to spread across the pan's bacon grease and toss that pan back in the oven (after spreading evenly and seasoning of course)! Getting the shepard's pie and spaghetti squash dish in the oven along with some veggies, I move on to that breakfast bowl.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVSbMvywZZjAFA-gdWRXbl4fI5pXmm31hLvKIIHrk_rWPr_3ReU7bDbT98utfqDa88h_sp6sggtatVjNjUQKuFcSBVmNHldxaRjIeUQ-TCg8lphr-78NqgA0_HRUHBJZCJxSQ5vmUi10M/s1600/meal+prep.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVSbMvywZZjAFA-gdWRXbl4fI5pXmm31hLvKIIHrk_rWPr_3ReU7bDbT98utfqDa88h_sp6sggtatVjNjUQKuFcSBVmNHldxaRjIeUQ-TCg8lphr-78NqgA0_HRUHBJZCJxSQ5vmUi10M/s1600/meal+prep.2.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brussels after roasting in the bacon grease and FlavorGod seasonings!</td></tr>
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I got the sweet potatoes simmering in oil over medium heat with a lid to steam them for softness. While that cooks, I browned more meat for this dish and moved on to getting an additional protein ready. This week it was salmon...I prefer my salmon a little crispy on the edges so it's easy for me to season this up and throw it in the oven next to the veggies with the casserole dishes on another shelf. As long as timers are kept straight, it's easy to just allow all these elements to cook at that same temp...at least for this multi-tasking chef.<br />
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Once the meat and sweet potatoes are ready for the breakfast bowl, I scramble up a pan of eggs and get this all mixed together. <<I'll be posting this recipe (and any others not up yet) later>> With one breakfast simmering together, I start in on my veggie packed meatballs <<Again, I'll share these soon>>.<br />
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...While I can, let me take a moment of confession: I'm Lisa and I have some OCD tendencies. This often causes me to use any down moments between spatula tossles to wash dishes and keep up with the kitchen...making the overall experience less overwhelming, and more controllable....that's all...<br />
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So back to these meatballs. I keep this simple and am able to pretty much dump a bunch of veggies in the processor and pulse a couple times. Gettin my hands dirty, I get these suckers rolled and into the oven in almost record time. I mean, it's pretty impressive. Ha<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvBbjHhcobYQqbo5uumh1USgbJjHvy6Odm3fMjp836zcsyMkeMrpf5KXSxsD7tHfdJTmEYcZKvTm_BYLkd1ft9OfZMXD56zDkTniW7ycQBay4Ilaj00CwSNVEbXSLDcyMKgU_yzUJlu6U/s1600/meal+prep.4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvBbjHhcobYQqbo5uumh1USgbJjHvy6Odm3fMjp836zcsyMkeMrpf5KXSxsD7tHfdJTmEYcZKvTm_BYLkd1ft9OfZMXD56zDkTniW7ycQBay4Ilaj00CwSNVEbXSLDcyMKgU_yzUJlu6U/s1600/meal+prep.4.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The meatballs headed into the oven. Recipe share coming soon!</td></tr>
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As sides and dishes come out of the oven I begin to portion these out into my individual containers to get more pans out of the way and get more grasp on how many of each dish I will have for the week. The remaining time is a balance of chopping, washing and bagging some fresh raw veggies and any fruit or nuts for snacks as well as getting the dishes out to portion and pack up.<br />
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One question I get a lot is about storage containers and fridge life...<br />
I find this sort of personal preference. Always check your eggs and other dates as the original food's expiration dates should be maintained as the meal's shelf life. In effort to be able to prep for my whole week, I do not ever have issue with reheating meals or eating the same thing a few times a week. Others may prefer to prep a few days of food and then prep more mid-week, but my preference is to knock it all out!<br />
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As for containers, my favorite meal containers, as you can see from the picture, are actually from Snap Kitchen (or My Fit Foods or Simply Fit...or whatever ready made meal place you've got...). They have great sizes, bpa free, a nice tight seal and they stack and fit well everywhere, storing the right size meals. I typically dump my food on a paper plate to spread it out and heat up but you can also heat up directly in these (unless you've got the whole fear of plastic thing going on). I collect these containers from week's I don't meal prep or from friends who don't keep theirs and love having them ready to use for my own meals.<br />
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In regards to what all I try to prep...<br />
That depends on the week a little. Ideally, I would have 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and at least a few dinners if not all of them. I also am sure to have something yummy for an afternoon snack or pre-workout fuel (the meatballs) and raw veggies and nuts for healthy snacking options. Just remember to be considering your macro-nutrients and fueling your metabolism throughout the entire day with real whole foods. <br />
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With all of these elements ready and raring to go, there's no room for cheats, going hungry, or having to spend extra money throughout the week for food. <br />
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If I can prioritize this in my busy schedule, you can too. Start simple and get excited to see how your love for cooking will grow, or as in my case, come out of nowhere!<br />
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Happy prepping friends!<br />
Finding Fit,<br />
LisaLisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05105743352198243642noreply@blogger.com0