Monday...Start Day!

Hey everyone!

Today is not the first day of my weight loss journey. BUT I am starting a new strategy today that I'm excited to share with all of you.

For awhile now, (like since the summer) I've sort of been at a stand still for my weight loss. There's many things that may have contributed, but I'm not going to go there just yet.

 At the beginning of last month, I started a new workout program called Yoga Booty Ballet. I know what you're thinking....don't judge! ;-) Actually, besides all of the yogi "mumbo jumbo" it really is a fun dance-type workout. It also has some great breathing/relaxing techniques I've learned and some great Pilates-style moves as the end that have really helped me tone up.

Since starting YBB, I lost 2.5 lbs. and just over 10 inches! That's pretty good if I were JUST counting inches, but unfortunately for me, I'm not. My main concern is getting my BMI in the healthy range (which I don't think it's ever been before). Although I was noticing my clothes were fitting a little better, I wasn't seeing the scale budge hardly at all. 

So, I decided to go into the end of February and beginning of March with a new strategy. I sort of stumbled across this YouTube channel called Blogilates. It's a fun, bubbly girl who has a ton of great pilates style workouts, along with cardio and strength training. She even made it really easy for us and created a workout calendar for beginners to follow. So, that's what I'm doing. It's totally free and something new to try. I will most likely still continue to fit my YBB in when I can, since it's a workout I do enjoy.

Now, about the food.... I've tried pretty much everything under the sun when it comes to dieting. But, there's one thing I haven't tried, and that's a Low-Glycemic Diet. I've heard of many people following this type of diet and having GREAT success. SO, why not give it a go, right?? Well, my husband and I are. I'm going to be sharing with you some recipes, what I'm eating for snacks and such as soon as I'm able to get this thing going full-blown. 

Also, every Monday from now on, I'll be sharing my progress with you! I'll be re-measuring and weighing in every Monday during my Blogilates routine and this new diet. Of course, I hope it's a great success, but I need you encouraging me along the way! I hope you'll comment and let me know what great habits YOU are starting this week to create a healthier life for YOU. 

Hope to see you all back on MONDAY! :)

Dee Dee's Journey

What is my journey??

My journey is a continuing one. One I started back in 2012. I started blogging at Healing the Heaviness about my weight loss. During that time, I lost 23 lbs. It was slow coming off, but I'm still glad that those extra pounds are gone. I had a really hard time sticking with it, though.

Since then, I gained 5 of those pounds back. I was also diagnosed with LPR. For those of you that don't know what that is, it's basically very bad reflux that damages your vocal cords and trachea. It's not fun, to say the least. Reflux has been something that I've dealt with for a LONG time. Even before my first pregnancy (but very bad during that time).  I didn't really know that it was a big deal until now. I'm trying my best to heal it through good diet.

My main goal for this journey, though, is to continue what I started 2 years ago and lose this weight ONCE AND FOR ALL! I'm still 60 pounds away from my goal. Right now, I'm at 195 lbs. I'd like to be at 135 lbs. I know that it seems like a LONG way to go, but I know, with the help and support of others and by God's grace, that I can accomplish that goal. No matter how long it takes me.

I just really want all of you to keep me accountable again... but in an even bigger way this time. I've made some big changes to my life since blogging and the Lord continues to work on me and in my life. Without Him, I am truly nothing. I just need all of you to encourage me as I go. I may be ridiculed for making this part of my life so public, but I know that it's what I need to keep me and my husband going. (He's doing it WITH me this time!) I want to be able to share with you my struggles, insecurities, victories, and accomplishments. I want to share with you what works and what doesn't. What I support, love, and cherish. I hope you all are with me in this and look forward to what comes next.

Coming soon....What we've implemented already to start losing weight and What plan we're following!

Thanks for reading!

Dee Dee

The Gypsy Vegan Mama's 2013 Holiday Gift Goodies Guide

I may be a little late to the party, but I just thought I'd share a few gift ideas for this upcoming Christmas. or maybe even next Christmas. or maybe someone's birthday. Anyway, there's some great ideas, here! 

Whether you're shopping for kids or adults, there is something for everyone on my list of Holiday Gift Goodies. Most of these items are health conscious and that's the way I like it. Plus, they are all really affordable, starting at just $4.00!

I've already got my shopping done for this year, but my daughter WILL be getting a couple of these things for her birthday in April. They're just too cute to pass up!

1.) Back to the Roots AquaFarm

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 Shop here!

I have wanted one of these beautiful babies for quite some time! Who doesn't love to grow their own herbs year round? Plus, there's a precious little fish friend swimming around in there! This is a self-cleaning fish tank that grows food for your family. How cool is that?! 

Or you can check out the Mushroom Kits! Either way, awesome gift.

AND Right now Back to the Roots is offering FREE shipping on all orders over $25! 

Take advantage, peeps!

2.)Wildcraft! Herbal Adventure Game

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This game sounds awesome! It teaches kids about 25 important and medicinal plants and how to use them, all while making it fun! I can't wait to get this for my kids! It sounds like a fun game for the whole family.  Shop for it, here!

3.) Para cord Survival Accessories from The Gypsy Jewel Shop

Looking for some QUALITY para cord accessories? Look no further! My family has an etsy shop currently dedicated to para cord accessories of all kinds! Bracelets, necklaces, whistle-bracelets, lanyards, and more! 

Not only do they strive to bring you quality, American-made products, but every purchase also SUPPORTS A VETERAN! 

Shop Here!!

Don't see a color you like? Just send them a message and they will be MORE than happy to accommodate your request. They have many more colors in stock than what is shown. 

(They are still a fairly new business)

 The best part is, all of these items are super affordable, starting at just $4.00! Check 'em out, guys! :)

4.) Veggie Mama Garden Jam

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Adding vegetables into Jam?? Genius. 

Ok, so maybe this isn't the best "Christmas" gift, but if you are planning on making a gift basket of sorts, this would be a great addition! Or maybe you're just looking for an affordable hostess gift to bring with you to all of those upcoming Holiday parties--this is it! 

I was blown away by the ingredients in these jams. Totally natural, organic, local, and GMO-free ingredients. Doesn't get much better folks! 

Find some Premium Garden Jam here!

5.) Utility Tote from The Honest Co.

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 This tote is just gorgeous. So simple, yet so chic. Only 500 have been made, so these beauties are a limited edition item. Whether you're a mom looking for a little *more* than a diaper bag, or you're in the business world looking for a carry-all tote, this bag's for you. I. Just. Love. It!

 While you're there, check out all of their natural body care products. I use them!

Buy it, here! 

Well, that's all for today, folks!  I hope you enjoyed my Holiday List! 

 What are you buying this year??

D. 

Peanut Butter, Banana, & Chocolate Chip Hemp Protein Shake

WOW!

That is the one word I have to describe this delicious smoothie/shake. I say "shake" because that's exactly what it resembles. My hubby was pleasantly surprised when he tasted it and said, "Babe, this is so good. It tastes just like a shake!" And yes, it does.

Let me just say that going gluten-free and vegan doesn't mean you have to sacrifice taste! You can have delicious food just like you're used to! Not only is this recipe extremely good, it's also super easy to make. All you're doing is throwing some ingredients into a blender.

What you need:

1 c. Almond milk (or other dairy-free milk)

4 tbs. organic hemp protein powder (I used Manitoba Harvest brand) 

1 tbs. PB2 powdered peanut butter (or regular peanut butter)

1-2 tbs. cocoa powder

1 banana

handful crushed ice

1-2 tbs. chocolate chips

What to do:

Add all of the ingredients into the blender, making sure you add the chocolate chips last, so they don't sink in. Blend immediately and enjoy. :)

See?! Super easy, right? I'm positive you're going to love this smoothie for breakfast, lunch, or maybe a late night "sweet tooth" snack attack. *wink, wink*

Thanks for reading!

D.

Linked to:

Mindful Mommy Monday's
&
Make Your Own Monday's

Hemp Starter Pack Review!

*Disclaimer: I was not in any way compensated by the company for giving my opinion of this product. These are just my honest views and opinions and should be taken as such.


Hemp Foods. Heard of them? Maybe you haven't yet. 

If not, here is what you need to know.

A Little About Hemp

 

The hemp plant is a very versatile plant that can be used for food, fibers, plastics, paper, etc...

 In my opinion, the most important fact about the hemp plant is that it is a true superfood. 

Hemp foods are packed full of protein, omega fatty acids, fiber, and other essential nutrients like chlorophyll, folic acid, and important B vitamins. A few great things about hemp foods is that they are GMO-free, gluten-free, and vegan friendly. Also, compared to other health foods on the market, hemp foods are very affordable. 

A Little about the Company 

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Manitoba Harvest is the world's largest hemp manufacturer to grow, harvest, make, and sell their very own unique line of hemp foods. The company is dedicated to the quality of it's hemp foods "from seed to shelf" and that's all they make and sell. 

 Click here to check out Manitoba Harvest's mission statement. Click here to check out the story of it's co-founder, Mike Fata, and how he was able to lose weight and live healthy largely due to hemp foods and they're great health benefits.

A Little About My Order 

 

I've been reading about hemp foods for awhile now and finally decided to purchase an Organic Hemp Starter Pack from Manitoba Harvest. Included in my starter pack was organic Hemp Hearts, organic Hemp Protein Powder, and organic Hemp Oil. 

I must say the package arrived a lot quicker than I had expected it to. I ordered on Monday and received on Friday. Of course, as you can see, the packaging is beautiful and endearing. I was happy to find the sweet little welcome letter enclosed in the box, too. It just added to my excitement in trying these new-to-me hemp products.

 I immediately started taking the organic Hemp Oil and took the 30 Day Hemp Oil Challenge. In my opinion, the oil had a pretty pleasant taste, compared of flax seed oil. I wouldn't mind taking it every day, for sure.

I also made a delicious Hemp Protein Chocolate Chip Shake (recipe coming soon!). The taste of the protein powder was very subtle. I was a little apprehensive after seeing that the powder was green (as was the oil). Since I take a lot of green supplements, I was expecting a distinct "greens" taste, but to my surprise, it wasn't there! It blended perfectly into my smoothie and I'm excited to keep adding it in every day. 

 I tasted the hemp hearts and was delighted to find that they're taste was very nutty, almost like almonds. Adding them to my salad was effortless and extremely tasty. I can't wait to try these delicious little babies in some other recipes, too. 

If you're thinking about trying hemp foods, but are a little hesitant, I would encourage you to give them a try. They're delicious and packed with great nutrition benefits. 

The Organic Starter Pack I purchased is only $37.99. Considering what you get, I think it's an excellent deal. Also, in celebration of this month being Non-GMO month (created by the NON-GMO project), Manitoba Harvest is offering this special 20% off discount on their online store products! All you need to do is simply enter the code: nongmo2013 in the checkout to automatically receive your discount!  This offer expires at midnight on October 31st, so be sure to take advantage of it ASAP! 

If you would like to learn more about Manitoba Harvest or hemp foods, check out there website or their Facebook page.

Thanks for reading!

D.

{DIY} Dryer Sheets

I’m super excited to share a quick little tutorial with you today!

Let me just give a little back story with this…

When I found out I was expecting my second child, I started looking for healthier home solutions that would save me money, too. Once I started doing a little research, I found a TON of great homemade recipes for cleaners, baby products, and personal care products.

I slowly started to implement homemade cleaning products and personal care products into our lifestyle. It’s still a work in progress, but very rewarding, as well!

Here’s a little tutorial for Homemade Dryer Sheets.

If you are contemplating living a more “green” lifestyle, then I would encourage you to try these out!
I realize that dryer sheets aren’t that expensive, but why not use up some things that you probably already have on hand? And one of the best parts is, my daughter is able to help me make these!

So, here’s what you need:

Directions:
Place flannel squares into wipes box. Whisk ¾ c. warm water with ¼ c. natural fabric softener in bowl.

Pour mixture over flannel squares evenly.

Close lid and gently shake box to combine.

Then, voila! You have your Homemade Dryer Sheets!

Just be sure to gently shake the box before each use, that way all sheets will be completely covered in fabric softener.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial! Let me know how these work out for you! :)

*Linked to Make Your Own Monday's 

 

{Vegan} No-Bake Muffins

Today, I'm sharing with you my FIRST EVER vegan recipe on the blog! (I'm a little too excited, can you tell??) ;)

It's nothing complicated and you probably have most, if not all, of these ingredients already in your pantry. I'm sharing my version of No-Bake Muffins. These little cuties never last too long in my household. My kids and I gobble them up, usually within 24 hours....they're just delish! But the best part about these muffins is that they are Vegan and Gluten-free.

I don't know about you, but sometimes, as a mom, I find it very hard to find lunch and snack ideas for my kids that are super healthy, yet still taste yummy and appeal to them. I think we would probably all agree that it can be challenging. I ,personally, don't want my kids loaded up on foods with refined sugars, so I steer clear of store-bought granola bars and treats.

That's why I love this recipe! It doesn't contain any white sugar, hydrogenated oils, or artificial dyes and preservatives. It's totally fresh and healthy for the kiddos AND gluten-free for Mom!

No-Bake Muffins (Vegan & Gluten-free)

Yield: 6 muffins

All you need is:

1 banana, mashed

2 Tbs. Sunflower Butter (I used Once Again brand)

1 c. gluten-free oats (I used Bob's Red Mill brand) or regular oats

Handful of each:

Shredded coconut or sliced almonds (or both!)

Raisins or Craisins

(optional) Splash of Coconut or Almond milk*

(optional) fresh fruit for topping, such as berries

What to do:

Grease muffin pan with Coconut oil. Mash banana in bowl. Add in oats, sunflower butter, coconut (or almonds), craisins, and splash of milk. Mix ingredients together until well-incorporated. Using large ice cream scoop, spoon filling into muffin cups. Lightly press down filling to take on the muffin mold. Cover muffin pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate over night. In the morning, carefully remove muffins from pan and store in refrigerator. Top with fresh fruit when served.

Don't worry if the muffins turn a brown color, it's just what the banana does when it's refrigerated. They're still perfectly fine! :)

*I add a splash of milk just to make them a little more moist.

I hope you enjoy these super easy muffins! Let me know in the comments below if you tried them and how they worked for you! Have a splendid day!

*Linked to Make Your Own Monday's
 &
 Healthy Vegan Friday's #66
&
Fitness Friday's
&
Mindful Mommy Monday's