Looking for friends to choose grace with me...

Just doing a little reflection and thinking about my business with Beachbody, as a coach.

I've always known the level of success that could be achieved and that I *wanted* to achieve but I have yet to be able to reach. I'm not a top 10 coach, I'm not even a top 100 coach. I have made a really great income, but not six figures. (which is totally okay!) I haven't been able to reach my desired level of success, not because I haven't had the drive or surrounded myself with the right people...but because of my internal "fear of success".

I know you're thinking 'fear of success'? What? How can someone fear SUCCESS???

I was afraid of losing myself in this business, in the numbers and the constant of running a business. I was afraid of being tethered to my business, instead of living the freedom of time that I was pursuing (and have, personally, for the most part - but I also want it for Kevin, too.)

I have been too wrapped up in my fear to really see my success thus far. And, to see that when I slip up and get lost (because I will - I'm not perfect, by any means) that I can choose to give myself the gift of grace...and keep going.

I know my calling and that is to encourage, inspire, and equip other women - that are also entrepreneurs and moms and that share in my passion of health, fitness, and whole self wellness. I have been in the depths of depression, self-loathing, self-doubting, low self-esteem and self image. I have seen the darkness that can easily take over our lives when we allow that darkness to be all encompassing.

But, I have also been blessed to find an opportunity that has allowed me to live my calling, that helped 'save' me from myself, that helped give me a sense of purpose again, beyond being a mom and wife. It has allowed me to encourage, inspire, and equip other women. It has allowed me to live out my calling and marry it with my passion.

And, I want to help you do that same thing and to build a business from home that you can be proud of and live out your calling.

I am looking for 5 FRIENDS to join me on this journey in living out our passion and calling to help others live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

If you believe that you are missing the mark in living out your calling and believe that this opportunity may be for you, please fill out the application below. <3 

Drop a TURKEY by Thanksgiving!

I know I know it's not even Halloween yet, and here I am talking about Thanksgiving!! BUT we aren't far from turkey day, and I want to help you LOSE A TURKEY before thanksgiving!!!!

The average american gains 8-12 lbs over the next 3 months, but NOT US, NOT YOU!! With our accountability challenge groups you could LOSE 8-12 lbs this holiday season!! What if i told you, you can still enjoy all your holiday favorites and STILL lose weight!?! It is possible and I am here to help you!!!

Imagine walking into your family thanksgiving day and your family noticing the big changes you've made and the results you've earned over the last 21 days?! You will be feeling confident, healthy and actually be HAPPY on thanksgiving day!!! And no worries, The challenge will end right before thanksgiving day so you can enjoy the day!!

Our ‪#‎dropaturkeybythanksgiving challenge group will focus on healthy tips to surviving the holidays, teaching healthy habits that you can make into a LIFESTYLE change, and get you the results you want!!!! Best part is the program we will be doing is ON SALE this month, when you purchase Shakeology, you get the ENTIRE program for only $10! What do you have to lose?!? Other than weight and inches of course! ;)

You can get signed up here ---> SIGN UP FOR THE DROP A TURKEY CHALLENGE! 
(This link will take you to purchase your 21 Day Fix Challenge Pack - I will contact YOU after your purchase to get you set up for the group!)

Flabby Mom to FIT Mom: The Hormone Reset Diet Group!

Hey guys!  I hope you watched the above video, but if not, here's a brief synopsis...

A few weeks ago, I opened up about my struggles since my hysterectomy last year. In an attempt to help alleviate some of my symptoms up until my BHRT (bio-identical hormone replacement therapy) appointment on October 16th, I will be following The Hormone Reset Diet by Dr. Sara Gottfried for 21 days starting on September 28th. 

I will also be continuing to do the 21 Day Fix workouts, the 21 Day Fix containers. and utilizing Shakeology daily as the hormone reset diet says to use a protein powder/shake supplement to help prevent muscle wasting by providing extra protein while you eliminate certain things from your diet to reset your hormones.

I would love to have a group of 3 to 5 women that would like to join me in this group, so for every woman that purchases the 21 Day Fix challenge pack (which includes your first month of Shakeology, your workout program, the container system, etc...) I am gifting them with the Hormone Reset Diet book so that it is not something extra that you need to purchase. 

You can purchase your 21 Day Fix kit by clicking the picture above - I will be notified that you ordered and contact you directly! 

If you have any questions before ordering, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at candace.g.taylor@comcast.net ! I would love to hear from you!

Transformation Thursday! Check out Brenda S.!

Brenda S, age 31 from Fulshear, TX, lost 32 lbs with 21 Day Fix and Shakeology. She entered her results into The Beachbody Challenge® and won $1,000!

Tell us about your life before you started the program. How did you feel about yourself and your body?
Before I started the program I had a 5 year old and a 1 year old and my life revolved around them, which is pretty normal for a mom. We entertain a lot, my husband loves to BBQ, so I was always trying to please our guests with delicious food… which was full of butter usually. I love hanging out with friends and neighbors, which usually meant beverages of some sort. After my second son, I kept packing on the pounds until my “fat” pants were getting tight. That was a crushing moment for me and I felt terrible about how I had let my body go because previously I had been a healthy weight.

What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey?
When I put on my “fat pants” and they were snug, I knew I had to change my lifestyle. I wanted to be able to play with my kids and be around for years to come. I knew if I was gaining so much weight at 31, then as I got older it would only be harder to lose. I didn’t want my children to see me like that, so I contacted my friend and now Coach Krista who had dropped a lot of weight and kept talking about how much she loved Beachbody products.

What is the greatest challenge you faced before beginning the program? How did the program and Beachbody® help you overcome that challenge?
My biggest challenge before was keeping my kids, husband, and guests happy with the foods I prepared every gathering. I wanted everyone else to be happy, so I didn’t think about what was best for me, just everyone else. Beachbody has helped me understand that you can make tasty healthy food and even without the butter my family and guests are happy and now healthy. I have also learned that it is healthy for me to make time for myself to workout and that in doing so I am being a positive role model to my children. They both enjoy doing mommy’s workouts with me. But most importantly I am so proud of myself and so are my family and friends. It is so beautiful to be able to inspire others to make their health a priority.

What in particular did you like about the program you chose?
I started with the 21 Day Fix and I loved the portion control containers and lists of foods to choose from. This really helped me plan for my week and try foods I didn’t regularly prepare before the program. I also like that the workouts are 30 minutes and there is a schedule to stick to, no thinking… just press play.

Describe the results you achieved with your Beachbody program. Which achievements are you proud of?I am now strong and my sons tells his friends that his mommy has big muscles. That’s such a great feeling. I lost 32 pounds, over 34 inches, and 3 pant sizes. I am also proud to be able to motivate others to become healthy.

How has your life changed since completing your Beachbody program?
I now have confidence that I hadn’t seen in years! I still spend time with friends and family, I just replace fatty foods with healthy foods and calorie filled beverages with water.

How did participating in a Challenge Group help you reach your goals? How did your group support you and keep you accountable?
I believe the accountability group is a major part of my success. There were many days that I wanted to “cheat,” but knew that I had to report to my group and didn’t want to let them down.

How did your Team Beachbody® Coach support you on your journey?
Krista was encouraging and always checked in to let me know I was doing a great job, which in turn made me work even harder. She thought I was awesome, so I had to show her that I was!

How did a Beachbody Supplement or Nutritional Product or Program (such as Shakeology® or Beachbody Ultimate Reset®) support your transformation? What are the greatest benefits you gained? Did you see benefits to your energy, sleep, mood/mental clarity, digestion/regularity?
Shakeology is an amazing product! It is tasty, keeps you full, and helps regulate my body.

You can change your life, too. Take the Beachbody Challenge for the tools you need to Decide, Commit, and Succeed! Complete any Beachbody program, and enter your results for a free gift and a chance to win cash and prizes.

**Story originally published on teambeachbody.com/teambeachbodyblog**

Fitness Friday - 5 Tips to keep you on track!

1. Step outside your comfort zone – we all have our favorite fitness activities. Maybe you love the stationary bike because it’s easier than running . (Who TRULY loves running, right?)  BUT, when you challenge your body to new and different things - that's when you see the changes you have been seeking!  Instead of doing recumbent bike several times per week, break it up with a brisk run in the great outdoors - you'll be challenging yourself and enjoying the pretty sweet scenery!
   
2. Don’t ever do the same workout twice – If you get stuck on the same routine change up your reps, add little challenges like an exercise ball, use a resistance band instead of your dumbbells (trust me, you'll get a completely different workout!), or up your weights. Or, (if you're like me and workout at home) - pick a different video, hop on Pinterest or YouTube and find a quick, fun routine to break up your normal schedule!
   
3. Plan ahead – Schedule out all your workouts for the week. If you take classes then write down and set alarms for your class times so you leave your house or work on time. If your going to the gym then plan your workout out for the day before you get there. If you're using a workout video, follow the calendar provided, but definitely write down the time that you will be completing your workout.
   
4. Warm up! – Always start with a LITTLE cardio before jumping into a workout. It could be light knee lifts to get your heart rate up or at least five minutes running, spinning, jumping, any type of cardio.
   
5. Once you reach your weight loss or health goal don’t just stop. Don’t just give up and slack off. This is when it’s crucial to set yourself a new goal. And, while that goal may not be weight loss, it may be to tone up more, set a personal best with your 5k or 10k, complete a marathon, swim to Cuba...just set a new goal! To maintain your results you need to keep eating healthy and add new challenges and workouts to keep from going back. Remember how hard it was to reach your initial goal so that you don’t fall back.

MINDSET MONDAY! Why you should be your biggest fan!

Post in the comments something that you LOVE about yourself TODAY! 

Post Hysterectomy Fitness - What my current Diet looks like...

                                          

I mention the meal plan I am following in the video. No doubt, the nutrition is the hardest part, but even following a super clean eating plan before, I found myself gaining weight - instead of losing. The average weight gain of most women in the first year post hysterectomy is 25 lbs. 25 POUNDS!  That's crazy! So, to help you help yourself, please check out my meal planner below - it has the first 7 days filled in to give you an example of what I am eating. You can use the latter 14 days of space to fill in your meals.

Example Meal Plan

And, I can't stress this enough, if you are struggling and would like to learn more about the programs, supplements, or meal plans that I am following in this post-hysterectomy journey, please feel free to contact me at candace@flabbymomtofitmom.com or on facebook here.

Post Hysterectomy Fitness...it ain't easy!

Just a quick update on where I've been, what I'm up to, and how different it is trying to lose weight post-hysterectomy! 

It's not easy. That's for sure. 

5 Reasons You're Not Losing Weight!

 5 Reasons You're NOT Losing Weight!

1. You're not drinking enough water.

Besides keeping you hydrated, drinking water on the regular, according to recent studies, can aid with weight loss. Filling up on water before a meal helps encourage portion control, and eating foods that contain a lot of water (like fruits and veggies) will fill you up faster, causing you to eat less. A small study even found that drinking cool water can speed up metabolism and discourage cravings for sugary drinks like soda and juice.

2. You're OVEReating!

So, you're making MUCH healthier choices and you THINK you're doing awesome, but in reality, while you are eating HEALTHIER, you're still eating TOO MUCH! Nuts, avocados, whole wheat pasta, olive oil, and dark chocolate are all natural and healthy, but they aren't void of calories. You still need to watch how much you eat of the good stuff. For example, avocado offers a ton of health benefits, but an entire fruit is over 200 calories. (21 Day Fix and 21 Day Fix Extreme BOTH teach you proper portions of not only your favorite foods, but healthy foods, too!)

3. You're a Cardio Queen (or King)!
If you live on the treadmill but never lift a pound, then you're missing out on one of the most important pieces of the fitness puzzle. Not only does weight training prevent injury by strengthening the joints, but it also builds muscle mass and increases metabolic rate. Bonus: thanks to a revved-up metabolism, you'll keep burning calories long after you've slipped off your sneakers. You . didn't know lean muscle mass burns more calories throughout the day?

4. Your significant other isn't on the same healthy road...
A significant other who's on the same or similar path can be a huge help to your weight-loss goals, but if your partner is not on board, then your relationship may be making you fat. You can't expect to lose weight if your partner is constantly ordering takeout, wants to go out for ice cream, or encourages you to sleep in instead of hitting the gym! Communicating that you need their support in losing weight is a great first step in finding compromises — for both of you. To start, next time you go out to dinner, discuss splitting an entree and choosing either an appetizer OR dessert to share. You'll not only save CALORIES, but money, too! Score!

5. You Don't Eat Your Greens! 

Eating five to seven servings of fruits and veggies a day is important for everyone, but dieters who go heavy on the produce are more likely to lose and keep the weight off, since a diet full of plant-based foods offers a greater variety of nutrients with fewer calories — and all that fiber keeps the body feeling fuller longer. Not only that, but you'll start feeling better almost immediately (as long as you're eating a variety) because you will be working on those nutrient deficiencies! 

If you're struggling and need extra support and accountability, feel free to contact me at candace@flabbymomtofitmom.com - I would love to help YOU get back on the road to healthy!

You're Invited!

Currently opening the doors of my online business to others who are looking to create a potential six figure income or simply create a side income opportunity.

I am looking for teachable individuals who have a passion for helping others.

(This is an ideal job for those is the teaching field).

I will send you a 5 Day Email Sneak Peek into how I created a full time income, working it part time. I will also cover:
>Compensation
>Team Environment
> Paid for Travel Opportunities
>Benefits and perks
>Training materials
>More!

All you need is an email learn more! Leave your email below, or send me a private message.

*non-coaches only please.

New Year New You Challenge Group - starting January 19th!

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU CHALLENGE GROUP!

Starting January 7th, 2015

Well, the holidays are over and now you maybe sitting here wondering how in the world you are going to get back on track for the New Year.  You might be wondering how you let it get so far out of hand.  You may also be wondering how you packed on that may pounds in a short period of time.  

But don't let that get you down.  Just because you made some bad health choices doesnt mean you can't turn it all back around!   You do what I like to call a U-Turn!  You just find the right path and get back on it.  The key to getting back on the right path is having someone to do it with!  I would love it if that person was me!!!

Hey! That's ME after two challenge groups!

So check out my plan for the New Year and let me know if this is something YOU would like to be a part of!

How many times have you made a New Year’s Resolution that left you feeling like a failure less than a month into the new year?  It happens to the best of us!  Last year I made a New Year's Resolution to get organized and if you could see my closet, garage, or office...well, you would know I failed!  I sit here today with a disorganized desk but a totally fit and clean body! Some things we are motivated to change and others we are not.  But I can tell you that I have pinned some awesome tips for organization and added some organization websites to my favorites.  I'm setting specific fitness and organization goals for 2015 and I can already see the shift in thinking happening.  There is something about being surrounded by people with similar goals in life that keeps you on track!  So this year I want to surround you with positive energy, fitness support, and clean eating lifestyle tips and tricks to get you in shape for the REST of your LIFE!

The definition of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results,” right?! So why do we keep doing it?

 Let’s stop being insane and actually commit to changing ourselves with the goal of making a lasting change - whether that takes 3 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, or a year! This means let’s stop trying to achieve a YEARLY resolution in the first few weeks of the new year and let’s take small steps each month that make positive changes lasting all year (and beyond!) long.

We want everyone to create maintainable change. Start small and build on top of practical goals. Stop being SO results driven. That’s exactly why I have set up my New Year, New You Challenge month by month, and better yet, day by day. Let’s face it, simply saying, “this is my new years’ resolution,” no longer works. We need this to be "this is my LIFE'S resolution!"

Here are the guidelines for our challenge—yes, “our,” which means I am doing this with YOU!

• Each week I will pick a positive topic video related to improving fitness and wellness (mental and physical).

For Example: clean eating in January, heart healthy habits in February, balanced nutrition, family health, etc.

• Focus on incorporating positive habits based on our weekly topic each day during that month.
• At the end of each month, I will pick a New Year, New You Winner based on the results of the previous 30 days.
  
  • Each participant will have the opportunity to fill out a form sharing their 30 day results change for extra points!!
• I will provide tips, motivation, meal plans, recipes, accountability and challenges each day through a closed facebook group !  Which means no one but you can see what is posted or what YOU post.
• Keep yourself and ME updated and stay accountable through social media or email candace@flabbymomtofitmom.com also.
  
  • Post pictures and status updates tagged on Facebook for points
   
  • Tweet @CandaceGTaylor
   
  • Refer friends to the Challenge for points and free stuff!
   
  • Follow/share on Instagram —  Follow: flabbymomtofitmom and hashtag #FlabFab2015 We will have a Photo a Day Program going on each month as well. The more you follow the Instagram Photo a Day, the more chances you have to win!
   
  • The more you share, the more we motivate one another!   
   
  --->As a participant in this group you will be required to commit to a Beachbody Fitness Program which I will help you find the one that best fits your personal needs plus invest in your health by replacing 1 meal a day with Shakeology for the duration of your fitness program.  In return you will have my 100% commitment to helping you reach your health and fitness goals.  I have helped over 100 people this year reach their health and fitness goals and I want to help you to!!!  This is your year!!!<----
• 
  ----->It is important to note that if you aren't into social media and have no idea what a hash tag or instagram is have no fear!  You can still be a part of the challenge group.  You don't have to do the extra assignments! It's just EXTRA! <------------>

What’s in it for you?

What, you mean you are not solely motivated by incorporating positive changes in your life all year long? Okay, well how about some PRIZES?!?! That’s right, each month we will pick a participant based on the changes and challenges you share to win AWESOME PRIZES from your ME your COACH!!!!!

*If you do not want to participate in optional assignments you must rate your day every day   (Not including optional day off Sunday) or will remove you from the group !!! We need everyone to stay active for this to work and be effective !!! This is a Challenge :) I will show up everyday  and I expect the same from you !! 

So are you ready to get started?!?!

I hope so, because I'm totally fired up!

So what's next?!  Even if you are not sure that you want to do the challenge group, go and sign up for a free TeamBeachbody Account with ME as your COACH!  Then, you will receive an email from me and we can determine if this program is a good fit for you!  Together we will pick a fitness program that will meet your needs, choose a flavor of Shakeology that you will enjoy drinking everyday and develop REAL, achievable health and fitness goals unique to you!

Note: If you already KNOW what flavor of Shakeology and which program you would like, you can proceed to sign up and get your program and Shakeology HERE! 

21 Day Fix - A Christmas Journey Week 2 Results!

21 Day Fix - A Christmas Journey - Week 2 Results! 

So, here they are - I'm down two weeks with the program and this is what I have accomplished so far - I have lost 4.6 lbs and I don't know how many inches as I will take those on Day 22. I have one week left with the program and will detail my plans to maximize my results below! 

And, just in case you forgot -- this is where I started two weeks ago...

Now, my plan to finish my 21 Day Fix out strong is to do doubles as laid out in the guide and to complete the 3 Day Refresh starting on Monday. The 3 Day Refresh pretty much dictates what your diet will look like for 3 days, so that's nothing crazy - until then I will be continuing to do lower carb, drinking my Shakeology everyday, drinking at least half my body weight in ounces of water, and avoiding junk food and soda. I'm officially 3 weeks clean of any type of soda! Yeah! 

Ready to get the 21 Day Fix and Shakeology?  Click HERE to get yours today! 

Wanna join me in getting healthy and fit?? Look out for my next challenge group OR sign up for a FREE Team Beachbody membership with me as your COACH to receive an email from me for a one on one discussion of your goals and what you would like to accomplish with a specific Beachbody program! <3 You can email me at candace@flabbymomtofitmom.com or sign up for your membership HERE

21 Day Fix - a Christmas Journey - Week 1 Update!

21 Day Fix - A Christmas Journey

Week 1 Update

Progress Photos

So here are my week 1 progress photos. I'm down 2.6 lbs and I don't know how many inches. I didn't take measurements this week. I'll take them at the end of the three weeks. 

Something that I will be doing going forward is exercising on an empty stomach in the morning to optimize fat burn. Studies say that you burn 20% more fat when doing fasted exercise in the morning. And, I'm ALL about that FAT burn! I will also be following a carb cycling plan as closely as I can while also following the 21 Day Fix plan. I know that I will be eliminating my yellow containers two days per week and introducing them in 1 by 1 during the week until I use both on my high carb day. 

I will be sticking to around 1200 calories per day on my low carb and medium carb days and around 1900 calories on my high carb day - which also conveniently coincides with LEG DAY! 

This new part of my journey will be a struggle, but one that will prepare me for getting ready to compete in late 2015. I am looking forward to the challenge and accept it.

A sample of my meal plan and what it will look like on LOW CARB days is as follows:

Meal 1: Oatmeal & Egg Whites

Meal 2: Grilled Chicken and boiled potatoes

Meal 3: Orange Roughy and broccoli

Meal 4: Shakeology & 12 almonds

Meal 5: Fish filet and salad

Meal 6: Turkey breast and asparagus

If you are interested in learning more about the 21 Day Fix or Shakeology, shoot me a message at candace@flabbymomtofitmom.com

If you would like to follow me on Facebook, you can find me here: Flabby Mom to FIT Mom

Gluten Free Pumpkin Quinoa Muffins

These things are the BOMB.COM! No joke - and especially great since they are also gluten free! 

I don't remember where I wrote down the recipe for these from, so if you know, please let me know so I can give proper credit!  Thanks!

Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa flour (you can make your own by milling quinoa in high speed blender or just buy quinoa flour)

1/2 cup coconut sugar

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp pink himalayan salt

1 egg

1 cup pumpkin puree

1/4 cup grapeseed oil

1/2 tsp vanilla

Directions:

Mix flour, sugar, baking soda, pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Mix egg, pumpkin, oil, and vanilla. Combine all ingredients thoroughly. Pour into muffin cups (makes 6), top with pepitas (pumpkin seeds) if you like. Bake at 350 for about 20 minutes. (Check for doneness all along as ovens cook differently in different areas.)

Transformation Tuesday: Mackenzie S. lost 17.6 lbs in 21 days!

Transformation Tuesday: Mackenzie S.

Mackenzie was a new mom who found she wasn’t losing her baby weight like she thought she would. She joined a 21 Day Fix Challenge Group, and was able to lose 17.6 pounds and 16 inches in just 21 days! Read her story in her own words below:

Before starting the 21 Day Fix I was feeling like I had lost all motivation to lose weight. I had gone through a major weight loss journey and finally gotten down to my goal when I got pregnant with my third baby. Throughout the pregnancy I indulged a little more than I probably needed to and had a much more difficult time taking the excess weight off postpartum than I had anticipated. I thought for sure I would lose all the weight by the time my baby was 6 months old, but as 8 months post partum rolled around I was still feeling tired, worn out, and overall disappointed in my lack of motivation to better myself and become more active and healthy. I was worn out and exhausted from the roller coaster of weight loss and gain. I wasn’t feeling motivated or desirable and wasn’t putting in any effort to achieve results but was continuously feeling let-down that nothing was changing. I was really searching for something that would make me feel motivated to lose the rest of the weight I had gained.

I chose the 21 Day Fix because I had seen some of the amazing results people had with it, and knew that I needed something structured yet easy. After reading about the 21 Day Fix and looking at some reviews on it, I figured it was worth a shot and might be exactly what I needed to get back into the fitness mindset. I had a great experience! It was so easy to follow and made my meal planning a breeze. My favorite part about it was that it really taught me proper portion control! I loved the color-coded containers, even my kids liked that they were colorful! (and who am I kidding, this mama to three little ones loved that they were dish-washer safe and BPA free!) I also loved that there was an option for eating out or having little treats.

I like how much the 21 Day Fix simplified my eating! I could prep the majority of my meals at the beginning of the week and then just pull out my already prepared containers and eat those! It really changed the way I think about food, too, and opened my eyes to how much I was mindlessly snacking or having “treats” all day everyday. Once I did the Fix I realized that those “treats” really weren’t being a treat to my body, they were slowing me down and making me feel sluggish.

I am most proud of how empowered this program made me feel! I feel like I can do anything now that I have proven to myself that I can stick to goals I set for myself. I set out in this program saying that I would fully commit myself for 21 days and see how the results made me feel. Well I can definitely tell you that I will be sticking to this for much longer than 21 days! It truly is a lifestyle and I now feel that it is an achievable lifestyle! This program has refocused my goals and gotten me back on a path I feared I might have strayed from forever. I now feel ready to take on the world!

The 21 Day Fix really made me accountable to myself about my portion control as well as my food choices. I liked the workouts and found them motivating and challenging. I felt like the structure of the workouts made them tough enough to feel like I was pushing myself, but not so hard that it was discouraging. I saw the most change in my core/midsection, I lost a lot of inches and gained a lot of strength. I felt that my Challenge Group pushed me to finish, as well as really helped me to find new meal ideas and try new recipes! I loved the group and felt they were all motivational!

I have shared the 21 Day Fix with everyone I know! I feel this program can be tailored to fit anyone’s needs and is such a great option for anyone trying to eat healthy, even those (like me) who already ate clean foods. It really provides much needed structure for portion control and when to eat the right foods. 
(Original article appeared on teambeachbody.com)

IF YOU ARE READY TO TAKE THE 21 Day Fix Challenge - you can order YOUR program by clicking this link ---> 21 Day Fix Challenge <--- and adding me on Facebook here ---> Candace Taylor <---to be added to my 21 Day Fix Challenge group!  If you have any questions prior to ordering OR you would like to hear my experience with the program, add me or message me on Facebook above! <3  (If you are not looking for the 21 Day Fix, but would like to participate in the Beachbody Challenge, you can do so at the link below!)

You can change your life, too, by clicking this link---> Beachbody Challenge, for the ultimate motivation to get fit! Select any Beachbody program and once you complete it, share your results for your chance to win cash and prizes.

Cough and Cold Season: ALL NATURAL cough syrup!

Cough and Cold Season: ALL NATURAL, Homemade cough syrup!

As you all know...the cold and flu season has hit. And, it has hit a little earlier than normal. I know...because my oldest son brought a cold home from school two weeks ago and it has made it's rounds and finally landed on ME! Ugh...

BUT, unlike everyone else in my house, I have developed this terrible, deep, hacking cough with my cold. It has been keeping me (and my poor hubby) up at night. NOTHING has been able to work at keeping it at bay. I've tried every over the counter cough syrup that we can get our hands on, I recently had a hysterectomy and had some of my pain medication left over. Tried one of those just to see if that would help. Nope. (My husband is a pharmacist and even he has been stumped at what else we can try...)

Whoa!  I bet that WOULD get rid of a cough...by knocking you OUT!

So, what's a girl to do when she's up at 1 AM hacking and unable to sleep? ...get on the internet and search for homemade cough syrups! And, while I was hoping to find something with whiskey or the like in it (just kidding!!!) - I found several with ingredients I had readily available even at 1 AM. And, you know what?  IT WORKED!!! I slept last night, with an ever so slight tingle in my throat, but no cough!!!

The several recipes I found varied with the amounts of each ingredients, so I just went with what didn't taste absolutely appalling...so here's my recipe below!

All-Natural Cough Syrup
2 TBSP. Apple Cider Vinegar (Bragg's if you have it, if not, regular will work!)
2 TBSP. Raw honey (local if available)

1 TBSP. water

1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

1/4 tsp. ground ginger

Mix in a little jar with a lid. Keep in the refrigerator for longer storage - just be sure to shake up before use as the ginger and cayenne will settle as it sits. 

One tablespoon worked for me. Dosing will vary by person.

PiYo Meal Plan : My Secret salad weapon!

     Want to know my secret weapon for my salad dressings?? I'm going to be honest, RANCH DRESSING is my absolute FAVORITE dressing of all time!  But, weighing in at a hefty 150 to 200 calories per two tablespoon serving, it's not exactly diet or waistline friendly. I usually make my own dressing, but have been on the hunt for a delicious bottled version similar to what I make at home. Well, I found it! See the photo below! 

    The brand is Vino de Milo and everything is ALL NATURAL! Can I just say that I'm in love?!  They are both delicious and will definitely help me stay on track as the Balsamic & olive oil dressing is only 60 calories per serving and the roasted garlic dressing is only 30 calories per serving.  Score!! You can check out the other flavors this wonderful company has to offer here. 

If you're interested in learning more about PiYo, Shakeology or any other Beachbody program, click here to contact me directly!