Craving something so yummy it can't possibly be healthy?

How can you get good calories, vitamins, and protein, and make it taste good? Chocolate and vanilla protein powders can be a very good source of all of these with just water or milk and ice.


I highly recommend using Whey Sensible by PGN Nutrition. Purchase from http://www.pgnnutrition.com/shop/125, which is the YHH affiliate site!

Here's a few great tasting shakes if you are tired of just chocolate and vanilla. Be creative. Eating healthy can still be fun......

(Each one mixed with 12 oz. cold milk, soy milk or water)

Blackberry Crush Smoothie: Vanilla protein mix, 2 Tbsp. frozen orange juice concentrate, 10 frozen blackberries, and 4 ice cubes.

Strawberry/Blueberry Smoothie: Vanilla protein mix, 6 frozen strawberries and 1/2 cup frozen blueberries, 4 ice cubes.

Chocolate Mint Smoothie: Chocolate protein mix, 1/8 tsp mint extract and 4 ice cubes.

Pina Colada: Vanilla protein mix, 1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks (not canned), 1/2 tsp. coconut extract, 6 ice cubes.


Chocolate Very Cherry: Chocolate protein mix, 1/3 cup frozen cherries, 6 ice cubes.

Blackberry Freezy: Vanilla protein mix, 2 Tbsp frozen orange juice concentrate, 10 frozen blackberries, and 3 ice cubes.


Chai Soy: 1/2 cold vanilla soy milk, 1/2 cup Chai Tea concentrate, vanilla soy protein, 1 cup crushed ice.

Cappuccino Proteino: Vanilla protein mix, 2 tsp instant coffee, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 6 ice cubes.

Key Lime Pie: Vanilla protein mix, 3 Tbsp frozen limeade concentrate, 6 ice cubes.

Enjoy!

Day #3 started out with KC and I wondering how we were going to get out of bed that morning. We were so sore. But we came this far and no reason to quit now.

Day three was legs and it was insane. It was good insane. I learned more moves and variety of workout in this day then I had in a long time. I had seen several moves in magazines, online articles, and other sources but had never seen the style of leg work we did here. It was simple but effective, crawling on the floor movements, which used your core as well as arms and legs. My heart rate stayed up pretty high the entire time. I was burning about 700-900 calories during each workout we did. This gave me a total of almost 2500 calories for the Phat Camp weekend. Being careful what to eat and to not bloat during the weekend, I ended up with a great calorie deficit leaving me 2.5 pounds lighter on Monday. I had hit a plateau so it was nice to see that I still had room for improvement.

The Phat Camp team was unbelievable. They taught us so much about fitness and even more about ourselves and grabbing life for all it's worth. Amazing stories and information was given during this weekend. I must say as I sat there and looked around the room at all the girls that had returned for their second, third, or fourth trip back and I was thinking "Are they crazy to do this again?" The answer is "No".

The biggest impact of camp was the days that followed. Everything started to impact my thoughts. What was I doing in my full time job? What impact was I making on myself or others? Of course, the story goes deeper and I must share something more personal.

The Thursday night before camp, my husband and I went to the funeral of a dear friend, who passed away within six months of being diagnosed with cancer at the age of 51. Can you agree this puts things in perspective? I personally feel an urgency to be working in an environment where change is happening and being seen. I no longer want to work for someone else. My dream is to run my home salon and a part time gym. Doing both things will bring me great joy and finally grab life by the horns. Through years of encouragement from my husband I finally have it and want to go for it 100%. I have a strong hearts desire to teach women to love themselves, make time for themselves, and lose the weight once and for all.

As Jen says all through camp "YOLO" You Only Live Once. I have taken this phrase more seriously in my life.

One other thing has happened I did not expect was the out pouring of support AFTER camp. Just days after camp my camp girls found me on Facebook. We continue to support each other, have forums through inbox messaging, and encourage each other EVERY DAY! How amazing is that? We didn't get to know each other that well at camp, as we worked hard and sweated harder. But after? We can't get enough of each other.

I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. Memories will be with me for a life time. Please, take the time and register for this camp. I don't say it because someone is telling me to promote this. I thank Jen for the opportunity to go, but with true honesty tell you, you won't be sorry registering for a camp.

2010 is going to be even more exciting. I can't wait to go back!

A personal thank you to KC: Thank you for loving me through Facebook and text. To hop on that plane and do this camp with me was truly a blessing. You are an answer to prayer. God fulfilled a need for a close friend. (But I think he missed the part about close, :) Seriously, He knew what He was doing and you really are a close friend and I treasure you. Thanks for being with me on a great adventure. I only wish we weren't so tired and could have stayed up and chatted all night. But we can blame Jen, Heather, and the PC team for that. Love you girl!

Register today at www.getphatwithjen.com

Also check out all the supplements and protein powders at:
http://www.pgnnutrition.com/shop/125

Phat Camp #2

Day #2 of Phat Camp: (Pictured here: Me and the ever so lovely Heather Bear. What a sweetheart!)

KC and I headed back to the hotel Friday night and crashed. Of course we both had our laptops and we made sure we were on Facebook to let our friends and family know we survived our first night. Neither one of us slept that well. I was thinking, at this point, can I really do this for two more days? The answer was "Yes". You would be surprised how much you are able to push yourself in a situation like this.

Day #2 September 12:

As soon as we got settled back into the gym on Saturday morning we were off for a jog. We got right to work. We did a sprint style training as well. It was almost like being thrown back into high school. Run as fast as you can, do some pop squats, run back, tag the next person in line, run again and get your team to the other side the fastest. We did all sorts of fun team challenges outside. It was really interesting. The best part? Jen telling everyone how they can easily do this at home with kids in a park. You just need to take the time to do these things for yourself and I totally agree!

After running for about 40 min. we were given the option to go inside and keep working or shop the "Camp Store". KC and I both thought we would rather keep going. If I sat or shopped my momentum might have dropped. So the group split in to two groups. At this point we went to the Woman's Area of Neo Limits and worked with Jen. Which was nice because the group was smaller allowing some one on one time with Jen. I remember pushing through a shoulder raise with weights and Jen was right in my face. Encouraging me to keep going, counting off the reps, and showing she believed in me. Even only knowing her for a short time you can feel her compassion for others. This is a moment I will not soon forget. It continues to drive me now even at home.

Finally we got to shop the Camp Store. Jen Hendershott and her team bring some amazing things with them to the camp. T-shirts, sweatshirts, scarves (had to have one of those) and the ever so famous Bling Phat Camp T. Now, I must say $65 was a little hard to swallow, but I had saved for this trip and dog gone it, I was buying it! I had stared at this photo on my computer desktop for over 6 months reminding me to keep working hard. To continue to motivate me that I was going to workout with this amazing group of ladies. So of course, now I have my bling shirt and look just like them. Well, someday. Hopefully soon!

Another great item they sell at the Phat Camp store is the ever so amazing Gym Gems. I have worked with Fran from Gym Gems in the past and posted a review and giveaway. I was thrilled to see her wonderful jewelry at camp. I highly recommend this as a gift to yourself for achieving a goal which you set for yourself or a gift for someone else who is a fitness junkie. Show your support to your loved ones and buy them a Gym Gems. I have not taken my dumbbell off since I received it!

We finished our day on Sat. with more conversations of health, nutrition, and Jen's journey through the fitness world. Several woman shared amazing stories of strength and over coming obstacles. Thank you to those who spoke. The gal shown in the photo here asked Jen to teach her a move that she saw on You Tube. Without any thought Jen obliged and then asked her to try. She did a great job on her first try and nailed it.

Saturday came to a close with again a dance session of letting lose and having fun. KC and I went straight to the hotel, laid on the bed and ate, watched a chick flick (or part of it) on TV and were out for the night........

Phat Camp Ohio 2009 #1

Wow, is it over already? I can't believe it. The anticipation of going to Phat Camp and now it's done. I have so much to say about this experience. I just know I can't put it all in one article or you would be reading for hours. So this will be a series of three.

So where do I start? Prior to camp, Phat Campers received a series of emails explaining what we needed to do to register and what to bring. Jen Hendershott herself emailed the group one week prior to say hello and she was looking forward to meeting us. We also received a 180 page packet - PDF file (which many of my Facebook friends reminded me was really a book) that we could read for fitness routines, nutrition, stories of success, and much more. The great information in this book is only for campers, so no sharing here. (Register for a camp and you can have on too!)

My workout partner, KC, flew into my local airport from N. Carolina on Friday the 11th and we started a five hour road trip to our hotel destination in Dayton, Ohio. We registered at the hotel, changed into workout clothes, and headed to find our gym. We were lucky to be hosted by Neo Limits Gym in Dayton/Centerville. (This was an amazing place.)

As KC and I drove to the gym, the car was suddenly silent and she asked me "So what are you thinking or feeling right now?" We were both anxious to say the least. Just the unknown of what to expect. After much time "stalking" Jen on line (as Jen put it, with a smile), looking at the photo gallery on www.getphatwithjen.com of previous campers, can not prepare you for this adventure. Previous campers say each year is different. So with much anticipation, we arrived a few minutes later at Neo Limits. We walked in and registered with Heather Bear, (shown in red). Then in the corner of my eye I spotted Jen meeting and greeting. To see someone for the first time you have only seen in magazines was awesome. But then to meet her and see she's real like you, was something I won't forget. Remember: Just because they are in the magazines does not mean that aren't a person with a story or have it easier with life in general. Or even that they can do it and you can't. We are all women with the same goal of being healthy and the same struggles in life. Cover models are airbrushed and champs of fitness competitions do NOT look like that 24/7. Set a realistic fitness goal for yourself and stop comparing yourself to others.

After the meet and greet, Jen had us all sit in a circle and started sharing with us how campers all come with a life story, how we were all nervous wondering if we could keep up with the others, and how happy she was that we were there. Her stories of inspiration and real life issues were amazing and I will never forget them. Jen was very down to earth and willing to answer ALL questions. She never showed frustration with campers wanting to go on and on and ask question after question.

Then came the Friday Night Boot Camp. Right into it, we picked a partner and starting working out. I believe this workout was about an hour and a half or so total. Then to cool down we did something I thought was pretty stinking cool! We danced. We started with shy ladies embarrassed to dance in front of others. As Jen and her team went around the circle and pulled women to the center, they really let go. When was the last time you got to party it up like that? It was fun and a bonding experience too.

Even after just a few hours the first night, we woke up a bit sore the next morning. Sat. morning started with lots of pictures, as we didn't want to take them after getting all sweaty. This picture is of me and Latisha. She was fab! What a great encourager and spunk. I really liked here energy.

Want to know what Saturday was like?
Stayed tuned for review #2.......


Be Blessed, Angie!

Body Temple.net Clothing Review

I am always looking for comfortable workout clothing. I came upon Body Temple.net during a Google search and wanted to experience some pieces for myself.

The pants you now see in my photo (the Rollover Stretch Pant) on the home page to YHH, were the ones I selected. There is a lot of extra material at the top of the pant, giving you the ability to place the the pant wherever comfortable on your hips. The Lycra on the pants is good quality and should hold up well. They seem to keep shape after washing and drying. It's also a thicker Lycra so not to wear out after only a few uses or washes. At $30 I believe these are a reasonable buy for anyone looking to add more workout clothing to their closet.

I really love the "wife beater" tanks for working out. It gives you the ability to see all your arm muscles working, as well as your shoulders. When I saw the glitz of this kitty "boy beater" tank I just knew I had to add this to my workout collection. I received mine in a pale pink. The Kitty Tank retails for $20. They are made longer than a normal tank, so they give a very slimming effect as well as cover the lower back when wearing low ride pants. After a few washes, washing inside out, I have not lost any rhinestones.

Body Temple.net has clothing for both men and women with the choices ranging from casual, to heavy workout, to competition suits for posing. They also sell supplements, protein powders, tanning products, right down to gym socks.

So check out Body Temple.net and shop through their wide range of clothing choices and much more.

Zevro Review

Still looking for that perfect container to bring all your healthy food to work? Or how about freezing all those fruits that you cut up for your shakes? Through an ad in my Oxygen Magazine, I found Zevro.

I was intrigued by their Indispensable Dispenser; SmartSpace Edition. This is perfect to fill with all the healthy snacks you take along with you in your day. Simply fill with dry foods such as beans, rice, oatmeal, almonds (what I have in mine) and much more. This allows for measured dispensing as well. If you pack a Ziplock with only a few ounces of almonds at time, it's all measured for you. You simply turn the wheel. For each turn, one ounce comes out the airtight canister into a measuring cup (included) which you place underneath. If you want two ounces, turn handle twice. When you are done, there is a cap you place on the bottom, keeping the canister totally sealed for freshness. I have had almonds in mine for about a month and they are still good. Almost gone, but fresh. The canister is scratch resistant and shatter proof as well.

If the counter style is not for you because of lack of counter space, they also make mountable styles. You can buy a single or if more foods needs to be stored, move up to the triple container set. These not only are great for measuring, but in my opinion, really add a touch of modern class to your kitchen. Add all different colored beans or noodles for added decoration, while still being a functional kitchen item. Each product comes with a 90 day warranty.

Now for my favorite item that Zevro sent out for me to try, is the Vac 'n Save 5 pc. container set. I don't think I need to say why one of the reasons I like this set....because they offer a Ruby series. This collection comes in rectangle, bowls, and round (tub) style sets. Each container has four side locks that easily latch down and flip back up. On the top is a vacuum button that you simply cover with the pump, pump out all the air, and it's locked down good and tight. This is great for longer storage, freezing, and just making it to work without leaking in your bag. I have a long trip to work, then a shuttle bus, then I have to go through security in my building, much like an airport. My bag doesn't always come out upright. I have not had any leakage from these containers. Simply push the button on the top to release the seal and they open freely. They are dishwasher safe, microwave safe and BPA Free. I still don't recommend microwaving in plastic, but if you must, this is a safer way to go. I also must mention that they still stain. I heated up something with tomatoes and was left with a red ring. The same with cheese, as in all other plastic containers, it did make the bottom of the container bubble and breakdown. So no more microwave for these as I want them to last. I just use them now for storage. Which is totally fine. The fact they don't leak is worth it to me.

Check out Zevro for many more products such as: magnetic spice racks, bar sets, wine bottle openers, spice mills, and much more.

Also remember, I now have posted a simple survey on my blog to help find out what you want more or less information on. Please take a moment to go to the home page (or if already there see right top side bar) and click on all the answers that apply to you. Thanks. Be blessed!

The countdown comes to an end……one week left until I head out to Phat Camp. I can’t believe it’s almost here.

I had asked several people to go with me. I guess the thought of spending money on a vacation which includes proper eating habits, hard work/sweat, and challenging yourself with the encouragement of fitness professionals, didn’t appeal to them. So in thinking I was going alone, my hubby agreed to drive and hang out in the hotel while I went to the gym. He was willing to do what it took to get me there as he knows how great an experience this is going to be.

But in saying all that, my God pulled through yet again. Blessings in abundance made it possible that I now have a roomy! She is not only making the five hour road-trip with me to Ohio, but starting her morning by flying into Michigan from N. Carolina. Wow, what a friend. Thank you KC, my sista! We are going to have a blast. Blasting off our abs that is.

I had set some pretty steep goals for myself before making the trip to Phat Camp. Although Jen and her team encourage you to come as you are, whatever fitness level, I personally wanted to have some goals met first. I wanted to be in my best shape and push even harder when I got there. My goals were to have the last few layers of fat gone, see some abs, and have some definition in my arms and legs. I am so close to these goals. We all (me included) have to remember it was not an overnight weight gain and will not be an overnight weight loss. We slowly put on weight and don’t pay much attention till it’s too late. Then finally when we make up our minds to lose the weight, we want it off yesterday. Patience. I have to keep telling myself that everyday. I know I am working hard, eating right, and taking care of myself the best I can. It has no choice but to line up with what I am telling my body to do.

I am going to learn a lot at Phat Camp and I can’t wait to share it with you. I hope to gain more knowledge and come home with new goals in fitness. Of course, I can’t tell you everything, as I want you to go and experience it for yourself.

It’s like one of my girls who shared with us at my home fitness class, when referring them to a workout DVD, “Oh I have that DVD. We all sat on the couch and watched it but never tried it.”

I am looking forward to sharing with you my camp experience, but not tell you so much that you just watch it through me and never try it on your own.

You can’t just sit and read about fitness while eating a ding-dong, watch a DVD and not get up, read my blog and then never put it into action. You have to go out on that limb and try it yourself. You have to put that toe in the water and test it out. If you don’t push through your comfort zone, you will never change.

After the completion of my Phat Camp, I am setting new goals. I have to keep going. The number one goal? Register for an online school to be certified as a personal fitness trainer. I have lots to choose from and am in the process of making a decision and saving the money to attend. It will happen. I have faith!