Meal Prep Essentials

We are one week into the TIU Summer Series (it is not too late to join, if you are interested check out the details here) which was formerly called the TIU Bikini Series. I have done a good job with regard to working out but need to make some improvements, going into week two, with regard to my nutrition. My goals for this week are NO fried foods and a LOT more water. I tend to stick to the nutrition plan for meals one through four but struggle with meal five (dinner).

I wanted to list some TIU essentials for a success meal prep:

1. Maple Syrup (This goes into a lot of the muffin and donut recipes. The muffins, donuts, pancakes and waffles from the Tone It Up nutrition plan are truly the reasons why I have been successful on this meal plan.)
2. Coconut Oil (for baking and cooking)
3. Almond Flour
4. Apple Cider Vinegar (For the shots in the morning to kickstart your metabolism!) 
5. Nuts (Almond, cashew, and macadamia nut are three of my favorites.)
6. Lemons and Limes
7. Tone It Up protein and bars (They are currently having a sale for 20% off!)
8. Quinoa and/or Cauliflower Rice
9. Greek or Coconut Yogurt
10. Oats
11. Veggies (I have found that asparagus should not be made ahead as they just don't taste as good but broccoli, sweet potato, and brussels sprouts keep well. It is also nice to have frozen peas and carrots as they are quick and easy to make and add to various meals.)
12. Chia Seeds
13. Almond and Coconut Milk
14. Leafy Greens (I like kale for the texture and arugula for the peppery taste.)
15. Protein (I am pescatarian so it is tuna, sprouted tofu, or tempeh for me.)
16. Seasoning and Herbs (Cinnamon, Himalayan salt, garlic, turmeric, and rosemary to name a few.)
17. Olive Oil (Gotta massage that kale!)
18. Seeds (I add sunflower seeds to all of my salads for crunch!)
19. Beans (Garbanzo, kidney, and black beans are staples in my pantry.)
20. Rose (All day!)

ESPRESSO MUFFINS

(Inspired by the Tone It Up Snickerdoodle Muffin Recipe, pictured above)

3/4 cup Almond Meal

3/4 cup Tone It Up Cafe Latte Protein Powder

2 tsp. Espresso Powder

1 tsp. Baking Powder

1/4 tsp. Salt

1 Egg

1 tsp. Vanilla Extract

1/2 cup Date Paste soaked in water

3/4 cup Almond Milk

1 Banana (mashed)

Mix all ingredients together, scoop into muffin cups (I also use muffin cups so I don't have to worry about the batter sticking to the muffin baking tray) and bake for 22 minutes at 350 degrees. 

~meg

A New Year's Resolution...complete!

I completed my first New Year's resolution! I am a couple days behind schedule but I finished...hooray! As you know, from this post, I split my resolutions into three month increments. The first set of three months was dedicated to finishing two crochet projects from the Edward's Menagerie book of crochet birds. I completed both projects on April 8th - the flamingo and the dove. The birds are for two of my friends who recently had babies - the flamingo for RC and the dove for LA. A little behind schedule but feeling motivated and ready to tackle the next resolution (April - June).

Next up, I will be creating a wall adornment on a weaving loom SP made for me. I have watched a couple of YouTube videos so have already warped the loom. Yep, already using weaving terms. The warp refers to the yarn that has been strung vertically on the loom from one peg to another. I warped the loom over a year ago...so let's not be too impressed. It has been sitting on the fireplace mantle for over a year but I now finally have the motivation to move forward in the process. I will be referring to the The Weaving Loom by Kate, as her guides are user-friendly and easy to follow.  
What are your 2019 New Year's resolutions? Did you split them up over the span of the year? Let me know in the comments below.

~meg

Finally Friday

It's been a rough week...like, I want to sleep all weekend and hide underneath my covers kind of week. So, on my way home from work yesterday, I took the long route and drove alongside the beach listening to the waves and taking in the sunset.

Aaaannnndddd I did some online window shopping - a retail therapy of sorts. I did not make any purchases yet! Here are some of my favorites. What are yours?

Top Row: Madewell Gemma Mule (L), Kelsi Dagger Amory Pointed Toe Flat (R)

Middle Row: Universal Thread Whisper Woven Slip On Mules

Bottom Row: Toms Honey Leather Jutti Mules

Top Row: Dolce Vita Jali Heels (L), Halogen Violet Leopard Print Mule (R)

Middle Row: Dolce Vita Santo II Booties 

Bottom Row: Universal Thread Aviana Microsuede Block Heeled Mules

Top Row: Free People Cedar Clog (L), Swedish Hasbeens Marit (R)

Middle Row: Lotta from Stockholm Classic 

Bottom Row: Kulikstyle Swedish Clogs

Have you been to Target recently? I love slowly browsing the aisles while sipping on a Starbucks coffee (at a 5% discount when you use your red card)...I hate when a Target run has to be cut short and/or rushed. Anyway, last time I was there I discovered all of these new shoes from Universal Thread - I love them. And I also love the new Foam Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks...it is heavenly. 

~meg

Currently...

Listening to...

Country music on the LA radio station (105.1 FM). I grew up listening to the country crooning of Garth Brooks, Reba McIntyre and Brooks & Dunn (shoutout to 93.9 FM). Dixie Chicks were a big part of my freshman and sophomore year of college; I remember my roommate and I having concerts and using our hands as microphones as we belted out the words (shoutout to Michelle). Two of my favorite current artists are Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan.

Watching...

The Umbrella Academy on Netflix. It is SO good! I wasn't sure what to expect but it exceeded my expectations.

Moisturizing with...

The Abundant LA product line. I discovered these products at an event held at No Tox Life in Los Angeles (another favorite product line of mine) and I am so happy I did. I am currently using the Healthy Boundaries and Skin Balm. The owner and creator Cici lists all of the ingredients in the balm so you know you are using something that is TOX FREE and actually nourishes the skin. The balm has a smoked beeswax base which smells so amazing. I am also using two of her essential oils - Moon Cycle and Clear and Sweet Dreams. I love them both and, because they have no toxins, I feel comfortable putting them directly on my skin -wrists and neck- like a perfume. She hosts workshops so I am planning on checking one out this year!

Indulging in...

Brownies from the food blog Paleo Gluten Free Eats. These are truly so easy to make and D.E.L.I.C.I.O.U.S. They are made from sweet potato, maple syrup, avocado and dates! And other ingredients like cocoa powder and vanilla extract. You can find the recipe here.

Crocheting...

The pink flamingo from the Edward's Menagerie crochet book. Crocheting two birds from this book is one of my new year's goals. You can read more about that here.

Stressing about...

Job applications. I am applying to a variety of places currently and am keeping my fingers crossed for an interview. 

~meg

P.S. How wonderful has this rainy weather been? In addition to the obvious benefits, the sunsets have been beautiful with colors like a sherbet banana split. And the greens have been glowing like they do in Portland. The picture above was taken from my porch.

Jalapeño Corn Summer Salsa

Jalapeño Corn Summer Salsa

(inspired by Pinch of Yum's Jalapeño Quinoa Corn Dip)

One frozen bag of corn

One shallot, diced

2 tablespoons of vegan butter (I use Miyoko's brand, made from cashews)

Handful of parsley, diced leaves and stems

Two avocados, cubed

One cup of quinoa

One jalapeño, diced (no seeds but you can always add the seeds for extra spice)

Pinch of salt (optional)

1.)  Cook the quinoa according the directions on the package. I personally use a rice cooker with the ratio of one cup of quinoa to two cups of water. The rice cooker makes the process so easy! I used to cook quinoa on stovetop and it never turned out right - the quinoa was never fluffy and I always burned some of the quinoa to the bottom of the pot making the cleanup process a nightmare. 

2.)  Dice the shallot, the parsley and the jalapeño. Cube the avocado. 

3.)  On stovetop (medium heat), start to melt the two tablespoons of vegan butter in a shallow pot with a lid. Add the frozen corn and diced shallot, close the lid and cook for five minutes. 

4.)  In a large bowl, add all of the ingredients and gently mix together to maintain the integrity of the avocado. I used a spatula. 

Simple, yet SO good. It is very light and fresh so would be perfect for a summer picnic or date night at the Hollywood Bowl with a crisp white wine or rose. Enjoy with tortilla chips or almond crackers.

Enjoy!

~meg

Currently...

Just a quick check in to say hello. I hope your 2019 is off to a great and productive start. I went to the gym this morning and picked up some meal prepping necessities at Trader Joes (i.e. almond milk, almond flour, maple syrup and apple cider vinegar). I love going to Trader Joe's in the morning and enjoying a coffee as I browse the aisles. Tone it Up is starting the Love Your Body challenge on January 14th but I am starting a week early to get into the swing of things.

Below is list of what I am currently loving - January 2019 edition.

Listening to...

Frou Frou radio on Pandora. This station plays music from Frou Frou (of course) but also singles by Imogen Heap herself, A Fine Frenzy and Jem amongst other artists and bands. I find this genre of music whimsical and calming.

Reading...

'Dangerous Angels' by Francesca Lia Block. While originally gifted by my sister when I was in high school, I love it to this day. It is an easy read but is set in Los Angeles (I am an LA native) so I enjoy how the author portrays LA in this book. 

Diffusing...

'Fight It' essential oil blend from Ellia. This blend has orange, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, rosemary, cardamom and clove.

Enjoying...

Tillamook Sea Salt and Honeycomb frozen custard - it is so creamy and delicious! My sister moved to Portland and introduced us to Tillamook. This custard was on sale at Sprouts and I cannot get enough.

Freshening up with...

No Tox Life 'Black Fig and Spice' deodorant - it really works! It keeps me fresh and goes on clear. You can purchase this deodorant, along with other amazing products from this amazing mother/daughter duo including wood wick candles (try the 'Sea Salt and Charcoal') and cleansing bars. If you are in the Los Angeles area, you can go to their brick and mortar store located in Glassell Park. They host fun events and workshops so you should also follow them on IG.

~meg

A New Year

Let's talk about 2019. I, personally, have mixed emotions going into this new year...I reflect on 2018 and realize I did not accomplish many of the goals I had set last new year's eve. I may not have achieved any of them, to be honest. While I made strides in some avenues (fitness/nutrition), I remained stagnant in many avenues (financial/organization/creative). A creative goal for 2018 was to start a blog - I did not start this blog until the last three months of the year. So, I spent nine months avoiding the steps needed to achieve this goal. Another creative goal for 2018 was to learn how to weave. While my partner created two weaving looms for me (thank you beau), I only watched a few "how to" videos on You Tube and put the initial yarn on the looms. I did not actually weave. An organization goal was to create -and keep- a filing system so I am not late in paying my bills. That did not happen although I attempted to start many times.  

This is my reality and I am hoping that by writing down my goals, I will be more apt to accomplishing them. What are your thoughts on 2018? What are your goals for 2019?

In order to actually achieve my goals for 2019, I have separated the year into three month increments with the hopes that I do not wait until the final three months of the year to make s**t happen.  While I can start on another goal that is designated for a different three month increment, I cannot let it A.) prevent me from accomplishing the goal for the current three month increment and B.) let the motivation fizzle out before the official three month timeframe has started and/or finished. For example, while I have a blogging goal officially assigned to the October to December timeframe, I can start on that goal earlier -say in February- as long as it does not prevent me from achieving the specified January to March goal. Further, I cannot not blog in October, November and December just because I may have blogged in January, February and March. Sound good? So, without further adieu, here are my goals for 2019.

January to March

• Create two crochet projects.
• I have had the Edward's Menagerie Birds crochet book by Kerry Lord for years but have never completed a project. I have started two or three times only to end up unwinding the yarn and walking away. Kerry Lord is brilliant. She also has other crochet books including dolls and monsters. They are all f***ing brilliant.

 

(photos of book covers via Barnes & Noble)

April to June

• Create a proper filing system. 
• I picked up acrylic file holders (like these) over a year ago and have now started sorting through my paperwork - I have quite the "to shred" pile already but it has felt amazing to start this process. I plan to have a system that works for me in place by June so that I am not late in paying my bills and don't miss crucial deadlines. Also, it will allow me to stay on top of my balance transfers and be debt-free by 2020!!

July to September

• Create one weaving project.
• The reason I put the weaving project later in the year than the crochet projects, is because I have a lot of friends having babies and want to create a bird for two of them in particular. I have started following the lovely weaver/creator behind the blog/brand Hello Hydrangea. Here are just two of her creations that inspire me to commit to this goal in 2019.

   

(photos of weaving projects from Hello Hydrangea website)

October to December

• Create two blogs posts per month. 
• I recently picked up this magazine and am super excited to read the content and create the recipes. I plan to cook/bake every recipe in the magazine and will document the journey on the blog.

I realized that something I could do to ensure a higher probability of success in achieving the goals as outlined above was to take control over parts of my life that I actually can have control over - Fitness and Nutrition. I can decide if I take the time to meal prep on Sundays and I can decide if I turn the television off at night in order to wake up early the next morning to work out. I can control if I eat the pastries that are dropped off at the office and I can decide if I grab a soda and fries on the way home to "deal" with the commute. I am in control, here, and that makes me feel hopeful about 2019. Tone it Up also happens to be starting another challenge on January 14th, so that helps as well. It is the Love Your Body series - find more details and SIGN UP here.

I am loving all of the linen and Japanese denim aprons that are out in the market - both in mainstream and on Etsy. Seeing these inspire me to explore and create nutritious recipes that feed the body, mind and soul. Does it do that for you? Here are some of my favorites...

Where to Shop and Photo Credit:

Blue Smock: 'Denim Smock' by Domecil, $60

(the photo immediately beneath of the button closure is the the back of the 'Denim Smock')

Charcoal Grey Smock: 'Pinafore Apron' by Portland Apron Company, will be restocked in January!

Caramel Half Apron: 'Cider House Bistro Apron' by Hedley & Bennet, $64

Natural Apron with Intricate Back Tie Closure: 'Halter Apron' by Domecil, $96 

Full Length Cranberry Apron: 'Classic Apron' by Hedley & Bennet, $85

Forest Green Linen Full Length Apron: 'Prairie Smock' by Portland Apron Company, will be restocked in January!

Natural Half Apron: 'Cafe Apron' by Portland Apron Company, will be restocked in January!

Caramel Colored Full Length Apron with Two Front Pockets: 'Smock Apron' by Parachute x Hedley & Bennet, $89

Light Pink, Linen Full Apron: 'Linen Pinafore Apron' by The Prancing Hare via Etsy, $40.61 

Light Blue Apron with Back Straps: 'Japanese Cross Back Linen Apron' by Magic Linen, $47

Oatmeal Apron with Adjustable Back Straps: 'Adjustable Garden Apron' by It's Handmade by Arianne via Etsy, $47

Of Note:

In the top photo, I am wearing a half apron, dip-dyed blue from Domecil ($58) Gorgeous.

I created the collage via Canva. You rock, Canva. 

~meg

I am still learning the ins and outs of blogging. I lost this entire post and had to recreate it because I accidentally hit some button on the keyboard. The "underline" capability was not working for me either...it was finicky and would appear when I did not want it to and/or be a different color than I wanted and chose for it. I am not computer savvy by any means but am excited to learn more during the assigned three months (and throughout the year). Thank you for being with me on this journey. 

Gift Guide - the fitness enthusiast

one
Yoga Mat from Eagle Rock Werkshop. This is just one of the many designs from this company but it is my absolute favorite. Another stunner is the butterfly print. The mats have a microfiber surface so get a stronger grip, the wetter it gets... meaning you do not need to buy a microfiber towel.  

two
The Studio Tone it Up App is free to download and costs $12.99/month. The app offers free daily moves, on demand workouts (new workouts released weekly), and an opportunity to chat with the other TIU girls (and sometimes the trainers themselves) taking a class with you. 

three
These Rose Gold Earbuds are so dainty and pretty - these are from Panasonic and come in a variety of colors. They are less than $10 (plus shipping) on Amazon.

four
This Fanny Pack by Osprey is currently on sale at REI for less than $30. There space for one water bottle plus a pocket to store the keys and phone.

five
Tone it Up has many workout accessories including dumbbells, a jump rope, a yoga mat and this kettle bell in their signature blue and pink colors. This one has a nice, comfortable grip and you can find kettle bell workouts for free on YouTube and for a small monthly fee on their App. This is available at Target. 

six
This fitness journal is from Sarah Michelle Martin's Etsy page. The cover reads 'Nevertheless She Persisted' and is adorned with pretty flowers. It is a twelve-week journal that includes places for you to input measurements and weight, food/calorie logs and grocery lists. This is one of many offered via Etsy and can be such a great tool to keep your fitness friend accountable on on track!

seven
These bands are from another fitness group called Sweat Love Fitness, led by trainer Katie. You can find their website here. As with Tone it Up, they have free workouts, recipes and fitness challenges. 

eight
This mug would be enjoyed by your fitness buddy every morning as she gets ready to start her day. #butfirstcoffee

nine
These S'well bottles are great in design and style. There are so many colors and prints. Right now, on their website, you can get a 15 ounce bottle free with $50 purchase.

ten
Did you know that APL stands for Athletic Propulsion Lab? I just discovered this. I love the look of these shoes and, while I have not tried them myself, the Tone it Up trainers have said great things about this brand. You can read all about the technology behind these shoes -and how they are designed to improve the vertical leap - on their website's FAQ page. 

eleven
I love this Fitbit's lavender band and rose gold face...stunning. It is currently for sale on Amazon for $179 with free delivery if you have Amazon Prime. It is perfect for your fitness friend as it monitors heart rate and sleep stages, as well as has enough storage for over 300 songs!

twelve
I discovered the Vooray brand through my local 24-Hour Fitness gym. I now follow this brand on Instagram and own the bag pictured in this gift guide. I love this floral print and the quality of the brand. They have many different styles and prints including a backpack, crossbody bag and fanny pack as well as accessories like hats and yoga mat straps. They are currently having an AMAZING holiday sale so it is the perfect time to pick up a gift for your fitness buddy and/or yourself!!

Happy Shopping!! What are some of your favorite fitness items that you are planning to gift your loved one this holiday season?

~meg

Gift Guide - the Adventurer

The holiday season is upon us!  I am usually running around at the last minute buying gifts and spending Christmas Eve (until the wee hours of the morning) wrapping the gifts. This year, I hope to start early so I do not end up sleepy and with the sniffles on Christmas morning. These past couple of years, I have been under the weather on Christmas morning and I am determined to stop that trend. The Tone it Up trainers started another challenge yesterday (Monday, December 3rd) call the Holiday Hustle. I know that this will get me feeling my best this holiday season and am so thankful to have the support and guidance I need within the Tone it Up community. You can find out more about the challenge here. The TIU trainers and their team provide a printable calendar which lists a fun challenge for you to do daily in addition to exercising, meal prepping and eating nutritious food.

I love exploring the internet for gift options and wanted to do the first guide for the adventurer. We all have a friend or two (or three or four) who loves adventure - whether it is by plane, train, automobile or by foot, they are always up to explore. I believe there is an adventurer in all of us. Here are some gift ideas -both substantial ones and stocking stuffers- that are bound to be appreciated and enjoyed.

ONE: My sister moved to Portland a couple years ago with her family, at which point I learned about the Columbia brand. She gifted me my first Columbia pullover sweater and I wore it four days straight when it was raining. It kept me warm and dry. This pullover comes in four different color combinations and is $60 on the Columbia website. This jacket is nice for the traveler as it is lightweight and takes a small amount of space in your luggage and/or carry-on.

TWO: This elegant cream rolling carry-on suitcase with brown leather trim is stunning. It also comes in silver, gold and olive (all with the same brown leather trim) but my favorite is the cream. It's $595 on the Nordstrom website so it is the largest ticket item on the gift guide. I discovered this suitcase via the Bows and Sequins blog...thank you Jessica!

THREE & FOUR: These two luggage tags are both from the Oh Joy + Calpak collaboration. They are $32 each on the Calpak website and come with a removable battery pack for your phone. It also comes in a floral print.

FIVE: The Swell brand has so many cute insulated bottles like the Geode Rose Traveler (L) and the Calacatta Gold Traveler (R). Per the website, you can also personalize them which will make it extra special for your adventurous friend. These are listed as $35 on the Swell website. I have also seen certain styles for sale at Starbucks.

SIX: Electronics is a part of our everyday world now - this is no exception for the adventurer. As such, this Tech Kit by Pinch Provisions is an essential for the traveler. The traveler will have the stand, headphones, the charger -everything he or she needs- to make sure they can post on IG, listen to music or movies while up in the sky, and always have the charge to take photos, use necessary apps and have access to flight information. I particularly love the password cheat sheet that comes with the set. I am one of those people that is constantly forgetting my passwords  and having to reset literally all.of.the.time. This one is currently $26 and comes in marble and brown leather. They have a lot of kits including beauty kits, coffee kits and brunch kits. Seriously, the kits are so fun and clever and can serve as a standard gift or get a mini kit for a stocking stuffer!

SEVEN: This journal of sorts can be found on Amazon. It provides a space for the travel to list where he/she went to eat, shop and explore. It helps the traveler get organized as there are places in the journal to input packing checklists, must do lists and what to avoid lists. There are also places to draw maps of the journey.

EIGHT: This five-piece set is another goodie from the Oh Joy + Calpak collaboration. It also comes in a floral print and what is referred to as sunset (a color blocking effect that blend into one another to look like the California sky at sunset). There is a zipper picket on the four packing cubes and breathable mess front window for easy viewing. The fifth piece in the set is an envelope pouch with water-resistant lining. It is selling for $48 on the Calpak website.

NINE: This is a piece from the travel line from Designlovefest x Target. Bri Emery (creator of this line and the blog, Designlovefest) can do no wrong in my book! It is being sold at Target for $29.99 and comes with a neck pillow, an eye mask and a convenient printed bag to hold both items when not in use.

TEN: This Joy Mangano steamer is seriously the best. I own a couple myself (both the mini and regular size) and have gifted them to many of my friends throughout the years. The steamer can take out even the toughest of wrinkles...it is a miracle worker. It is lightweight and so much easier than the traditional iron. This is great for the traveler. These are $19.99 at Bed, Bath and Beyond - make sure to use a 20% off coupon.

ELEVEN: These passport holders can be found on Etsy. Etsy has SO many great gift ideas and this one is no exception. I love the travel quotes printed on these holders. The holder also acts as a wallet as there is not only a slot for the passport but also for credit cards and cash. These are currently listed for $19.75 and the seller is offering free shipping to anywhere in the United States!

~meg

I started watching The Bodyguard on Netflix -the British series- and could not stop. Which Netflix show are you currently binge-watching? Other ones I recommend: The Sinner, The Haunting of Hill House and The Great British Baking Show.

It's the Holiday Season

It is already December...how did that happen? The fall season seemed to go by in a blink of an eye but perhaps it just feels that way because I live in Southern California. Alas, it is December 1st and time to plan for all of the office parties, family gatherings, white elephant & cookie exchanges, ugly sweater parties and New Year's Eve celebrations. Here are some outfit ideas -- scroll through to the end of the post for all of the links. 

Outfit Links: Image 1 // Image 2 // Image 3 // Image 4 // Image 5

More links to other festive, holiday options:

• Pink is just as festive as red for the holidays. Here is a bright option from Banana Republic. 
• Animal Print is another option for a holiday outfit. This feminine Rebecca Taylor dress can be found at Bloomingdales. A less expensive option is from The Limited. 
• A flirty sequin dress from Express can be worn to ring in the new year!
• For ugly sweaters check out Hot Topic, Forever 21 and your local Goodwill Store. 

I would love to know what your holiday plans are and what you plan to wear?

~meg

Tone It Up

I discovered Tone It Up in May of 2017 through a friend. She had been a member of Tone It Up for over two years (a Christmas gift from her husband) but had not yet participated in a challenge. She introduced it to me and asked me to join in the challenge that was scheduled to start the following week - the 2017 Bikini Challenge. We spent the weekend together preparing for the challenge: to meal prep, talk about our goals, drink rose and answer the questions presented to the Tone It Up community by the creators/trainers Katrina and Karena. The questions were great - our goals started out as superficial ('lose weight' and 'fit back into those jeans') but by the end of that weekend, we had goals that were more centered on overall health and wellness, building confidence, and becoming a part of a community that supports women. 

We were going strong until the Seven-Day Slim Down (the Seven-Day Slim Down was scheduled at the end of the challenge - a final week of exercises and specific slimming foods/recipes). It was not the Slim Down that caused us to derail but rather, unforeseen life circumstances. Alas I have been participating in challenges ever since - there have been three: the 21 Day Slim Down, the Love Your Body Challenge and the 2018 Bikini Challenge. I was not as successful in those challenges as the first one but I have lost 25 pounds to date.

In high school and college, I participated in athletics - water polo, swim and crew (rowing). It was after college, when I no longer had a daily rigorous workout schedule with a team, that I gained weight and got out of the habit of exercising. While I was somewhat knowledgable about nutrition, and was a vegetarian, I had never implemented proper eating habits. Yep, I was one of those vegetarians (lacto-ovo-vegetarians) that still ate cheese/ice cream and a lot of pasta. Tone It Up has taught me so much about nutrition and has so many delicious recipes that actually make sticking to the plan, easy. It really does become a lifestyle. It is the first nutrition plan (it is not a diet because you do not deprive your body but rather, consume foods that are healthful and satisfying) that has actually worked for me!

Find Tone It Up on Instagram at @toneitup

Find Tone It Up Nutrition on Instagram at @toneitupnutrition (they post a lot of recipes on their instagram and on their website so if you are unable to purchase the nutrition plan --yet-- you can still have access to a lot of recipes)

Follow my progress on my Instagram at @tiu_megs_tiu

I used to work out in old t-shirts and whatever yoga pants I had lying around. I found that I was more motivated if I had workout clothes that were comfortable and pretty (as well as ones that I could wear pre and post-workout to run errands and meet up with friends). Tone It Up also suggests choosing  your workout outfit out the night before so it is ready for you when you wake up for your morning workout. I have to admit, I do not always do that and often work out in my pajamas...whatever works, right? Here are some of my favorites workout clothes:

1 (on sale!) // 2 // 3 (only $20!) // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 (she has tons of amazing designs!) 

Tone It Up is currently hosting another challenge which started on October 1st and goes through October 31st. It is not too late to join! Find all the details here.

~meg