Beach Babe DVD Giveaway!

I began my Tone It Up lifestyle in July, when I purchased the Beach Babe DVD, signed up for the online community, and printed out my workout schedule. Before I knew it I was ordering Perfect Fit Protein, and participating in challenges that not only motivated me to give it my all, but also encouraged me to keep going and inspire others. During the Beach Week Challenge, I won a box of Tone It Up goodies, which included a beach bag, water bottle, lunch bag, and the Beach Babe DVD, among other things. I immediately gave that DVD to my mom, and she loves the workouts, especially the Summer Arms workout, which she tries to do every day before work.

On Cyber Monday, my Tone It Up sister Amanda asked if she could use me as the person who referred her to the Tone It Up Nutrition Plan, and I immediately said yes. When any individual bought the plan on Cyber Monday and wrote down a referral, they would both receive a small box of Tone It Up goodies that included a water bottle, small journal, hat, sticker, perfect fit packet, AND the Beach Babe DVD. I immediately knew that I wanted to host a giveaway for this amazing DVD, so I can inspire and encourage others to start their healthier, toned up lifestyle. 

This 2-disc DVD includes 7 workouts and behind the scenes with Karena & Katrina. The 7 workouts include:

Disc 1:

Surfer Girl, a fun toning workout to strengthen your core and arms, slim the thighs, and lift the booty (24 min)

Bikini Sculpt, perfect to fit in your day to tighten and tone, burn fat, and to have your ultimate summer body (40 min)

High Intensity Interval Training, the best type of routine to burn as many calories at once and to increase your metabolism (20 min)

Disc 2:

Summer Arms, a fine toning arm circuit with Karena that will expose your sculpted arms and shoulders (12 min)

Bikini Booty, a routine that is sure to focus on lifting, toning, and shaping your backside perfectly for that bikini (10 min)

Bikini Abs, a fun workout with Katrina to slim the waistline, tone the lower and upper abs, all while strengthening the core (15 min)

Long & Lean, relax on the beach with Karena while elongating your body and increasing circulation (10 min)

My favorite workout has to be HIIT the Beach! This workout is great to do first thing in the morning, three times a week! It'll get your heart pumping, and your body sweating! It's only 20 minutes, so no excuses! You HAVE TIME! 

Here's a simple way to get the most out of your Beach Babe DVD! 

Monday - HIIT the Beach + Summer Arms & Bikini Booty

Tuesday - Surfer Girl + Bikini Abs

Wednesday - HIIT the Beach + Summer Arms & Bikini Booty + Long & Lean

Thursday - Surfer Girl + Bikini Abs

Friday - HIIT the Beach + Summer Arms & Bikini Booty

Saturday - Bikini Sculpt

Sunday - Rest

Want to win this amazing DVD that could give you results like this, as long as you're eating lean, clean and green as well?! What better way to start off 2013!?

All you have to do is follow my blog and leave a comment answering this question...

How will this Tone It Up Beach Babe DVD help you achieve your fitness goals?

For an additional entry, you can also tweet about the giveaway to make sure everyone knows about the giveaway, and enable more individuals to start off 2013 on the right foot! 

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Trip to Central Park

I live roughly 20 minutes away from NYC. I can take a train, bus, or car, and be there in no time. Yet, I've never been to Central Park, even though I've always wanted to go. Imagine, a picnic basket, a blanket laid out, and a homemade lunch with your love? Yup, that's definitely on my bucket list, but it can only be done in the spring or summer.

So when my friend asked me to go to Central Park with her one day, I was a little hesitant because it was pretty cold out, dark, and rainy. However, I said yes, because I knew without a doubt that we could make it fun. A few weeks ago, we hopped on a bus and headed to NY. We shared way too many laughs, and probably annoyed a lot of people on the way there. When we arrived we walked 20 or so blocks to Columbus Circle, and noticed that there were little shops set up for the holidays. We walked around, peeking in at all the shops. The feeling in the air was joyous and calm, as the holidays were fast approaching. Even though we didn't buy anything, we definitely felt just as much joy as the customers.

Afterwards, we started our walk into Central Park, but little did we know how big it actually was. We took a picture of the map, and several other beautiful scenic spots, and even had other ladies take a picture of us! We trekked through Central Park while the rain came down, not minding a bit that we were slowly getting soaked. However, little did we know that we were slowly going in a circle, and an hour later we were back in the same place that we started in! We didn't see half of Central Park, but by that point we were hungry, so we decided to head back towards the bus station to grab something to eat. We promised that we'd come back on a warmer, less rainy day to see the rest of Central Park, or at least another section!

Leave it to the most indecisive people to take another hour to decide where to eat, but finally we settled on a place that had a little bit of everything so that it wasn't so hard to choose what to eat! We discussed plans for my birthday and our new bucket list of all the things we want to do before she leaves to live across the country!

We eventually grabbed Jamba Juice and coffee and headed back to NJ. I can't wait to make more memories before she leaves.

Go to Central Park √

Eclipse: Book Review

Eclipse, the third book of the Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer, grabbed readers and held them closely as Bella chose between the love of her existence and the love of her life. I have to admit, I thought this book was much more intense the first time around, at least in the fight scenes... the scenes between Bella and Edward, and Bella and Jacob are full of passion though, and it makes choosing a team rather difficult. 

Synopsis According to Barnes&Noble:

Readers captivated by Twilight and New Moon will eagerly devour the paperback edition Eclipse, the third book in Stephenie Meyer's riveting vampire love saga. As Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge, Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob —- knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella has one more decision to make: life or death. But which is which?

My Review:

Edward returns and all is well, except the fact that Edward won't allow Bella to see Jacob, because he's trying to protect her, and it breaks her heart. It's difficult for me, as a reader, to see Bella struggle book after book. Not only does she have problems with Edward and Jacob, but Victoria is still on the hunt, and the Cullen's made a promise to the Volturi to change Bella into a vampire, since she knows too much. This book is packed with drama, but only one thing is resolved by the end. However, readers are able to find out more about the Cullen's and how they came to be, specifically Rosalie. We're able to look at Rosalie from a different perspective, feel sympathetic towards her, and understand why she treats Bella the way she does. They're all just trying to protect Bella in the best way possible. 

Meanwhile, Bella is sneaking away to La Push to see Jacob, and taking every chance she gets to see him. It's as if she's being pulled like a magnet to Jacob, and yet Jacob and Edward's magnets cannot meet - they cannot be together. In the end though, we learn that it was really Edward's Bella and Jacob's Bella that couldn't meet. 

It really makes you wonder ... without Bella there would be no fighting, but there also wouldn't be an amazing love story. And even though in some instances you can tell how young Bella really is, no one can deny the love she has for Edward. While Bella loves Jacob too, she loves Edward more. 

In the end, the werwolves and vampires come together for the fight of their lives against the newborn army that has been created. The fight isn't as intense as I remembered it, but that may just be because I've seen the movie, and it seems more brutal and fast paced than the book. I love that Meyers includes a ton of foreshadowing about Jacob and it just makes you want to read the last book that much more. 

"The clouds I can handle Bella. But I can't fight with an eclipse" (page 600). 

My Rating: 5 Stars

Hung for the Holidays: Ornament Swap!

I've never been involved in an ornament swap before, not with friends and definitely not with bloggers, so when I came upon Carlyn's ornament exchange blog post @ Just Keep Sweating, I just knew I had to sign up immediately. Carlyn @ Just Keep Sweating, Jenn @ Fit Appetit, and Gina @ Burning Babi Fat teamed up for a fun holiday ornament swap for bloggers and those on other social media outlets!

After signing up, we received an email with our partners. If we wanted to, we could email our partners and get to know a little more about them, which was great because I was able to 'meet' two new individuals!

Megan, @ Run Megan Run, was my partner, and even though we talked and she told me a little more about herself (like how she loves to travel - originally from California and going to Texas, San Diego, and Arizona, before settling in Georgia - how awesome is that?! I'm kind of jealous!), I knew immediately the kind of ornament I wanted to get her after checking out her blog! I logged on to Etsy and began browsing all of the handmade shops, and fell in love with a running ornament, which was the perfect ornament for Megan, in my opinion, because this year she was a running fiend, and I hope it only continues into the years to come! I was able to draw in on some of the energy and motivation that her blog was able to provide, especially before my first 5K on Thanksgiving Day! I could only hope to compete in as many races as her one day, and in all 50 states, how amazing would that be?!

[via: RunMeganRun; purchased from: TreasureCast]

Penny, who doesn't have a blog, had me as her partner, and so I let her know a little bit more about me and told her that I had just graduated from college and am pursuing a job as a Child Life Specialist, I'm a fitness fanatic and obsessed with kickboxing, I love to write and bake, and my favorite animal is a penguin. I hoped that was enough for her to work with, and after receiving my ornaments (yes, two of them!) she definitely is a great listener! I loved them so much that I even decided to send her a Christmas card to say thank you in a more personal way! Thank you Penny for the ornaments; I will cherish them for years to come!

How adorable are these!? 

"I'm in love, I'm in love, and I don't care who knows it!"

Happy Holidays Everyone! 

If you ever have the chance to participate in an Ornament Swap, I say go for it! 

We Were Blown Away by Carrie Underwood

I was lucky enough to receive two tickets to Carrie Underwood's Blown Away Tour as a graduation present from my cousin (yes, the same cousin I went to my first Carrie Underwood concert with)! Now when I received them, I had about 6 months to get excited, and excited I was! I am telling you, every time I listened to her CD, I smiled and tried to memorize every word of every song! I don't even buy CDs anymore, but I just HAD to buy her CD, and I didn't regret it, because every song was incredible.

A few weeks before the concert, I decided to ask Sal to join me, not only because he'd never seen Carrie Underwood before, but because he might just love her as much as I do (probably not, though)! He was just as pumped, until we went out the night before for his birthday, and the following day, the night of the concert, included one hell of a hang over (on his part). Being a great boyfriend though, he ate a greasy hangover sandwich, took plenty of advil, and came to the concert with me... and for that I am thankful. Plus I was able to torture him a little with the loud music - haha!

Hunter Hayes opened up for Carrie Underwood, and I have to admit, he was just as good in concert as he was on the many country awards shows that I've seen him on and on the radio. While he's still young and only at the beginning of the career, I can definitely see him having an unbelievable music career. I didn't know some of his songs, but it didn't bother me; instead I just sang the songs I did know a little bit louder to make up for it. He ended up coming back on stage to sing a duet with Carrie Underwood, which was fantastic - they seriously sounded great together (though I'm not sure I can say it was her best duet - I mean, she sang with Brad Paisley - talk about amazing!)

When Carrie Underwood went on, the crowd went wild and I've never heard a concert venue get as loud as it did. It took me awhile to scream... it seemed like I had forgotten how, but I eventually got my scream as loud as I could. Carrie Underwood looked fantastic, and even better with each outfit change, which I didn't even mind all that much because she was fast and the end result was worth it! Each outfit paired nicely with each song. Sal was a little hesitant about waiting through outfit changes, but it just made her performance that much better, and he had to agree - especially when she wore outfits that showed off her spectacular legs, which I have since found the secret too on none other than Pinterest.

Two memorable things happened during her concert (no Sal didn't propose!), Carrie Underwood brought a class of children from a local school on stage to sing with her, and it was indescribable... I just had to videotape the whole thing, and a short while after, Carrie was on a flying stage, literally soaring above all her fans, singing her heart out. She told the crowd that we should be careful what we ask for, because she asked for a stage that enabled her to be closer to all of her fans, and that is exactly what she got.

She is the most talented country artist, and performer, that I've ever seen in my life, though it may be only my opinion, I'm sure many, many others can agree. Her voice is beyond incredible, and even more so in person. Not only is she an amazing artist, but she is also an amazing person - helping those less fortunate whenever she can. Just the other day on December 14th, when she held a concert in Des Moines, Iowa, she became sick and knew that she sounded different due to laryngitis... while she persevered through the entire performance, she realized that she needed to give back and therefore donated all her ticket sales, estimated at $483,000, back to the community. This was because she felt as if she couldn't give 100%, and felt guilty having made money because of that. I'm sure her fans would have understood because she's only human, but it's still such a generous thing to do.

Though I've seen her twice already in a two-year span, I would go see her again tomorrow if I could. I am a Carrie Underwood fan through and through and feel so blessed having had the chance to see her not once, but twice. Sal had such a great time at the concert, and definitely agrees that she has the best legs in the business!

New Moon: Book Review

I was entranced by New Moon by Stephenie Meyer, the second book in the Twilight Saga, and I was able to pick up on many foreshadowing events the second time around, than I had the first time I read it about 3 years ago. 

Synopsis According to Barnes&Noble:

For Bella Swan, there is one thing more important than life itself: Edward Cullen. But being in love with a vampire is more dangerous than Bella ever could have imagined. Edward has already rescued Bella from the clutches of an evil vampire, but now, as their daring relationship threatens all that is near and dear to them, they realize their troubles may just be beginning....

Legions of readers entranced by the New York Times bestseller Twilight are hungry for more, and they won't be disappointed by this gripping sequel. In New Moon, Stephenie Meyer delivers another irresistible combination of romance and suspense with a supernatural twist. Passionate, riveting, and deeply moving, this vampire love saga is well on its way to literary immortality.

My Review:

Edward and Bella's relationship has grown to new levels, but I don't think any of Stephenie Meyer's readers believe that Edward could even leave Bella, even when he does. I thought it'd be back within the next chapter... little did I know. Before Edward left, leaving Bella with nothing but memories that would soon fade, having a human's mind and all, there was a good amount of foreshadowing. Meyer's let her readers know what was eventually coming. Not only does Edward tell Bella that he'd only stay with her if that's what was safest for her, but he also explains to Bella that he thought about suicide when she almost died, in Twilight, she asks how vampires could ever do that and his remark was simple - go to Italy and provoke the Volturi. The birthday party is when the safety of Bella became prominent, and that's when Edward decided enough was enough. 

When he leaves with his family, Bella is heartbroken, as are the readers... at least those on Team Edward! Though I was confused during the movies as to whose team I was on (because let's face it - Taylor Lautner is gorgeous), after I reread the books, it only confirmed that I'm Team Edward all the way. Although I love the friendship that blossoms between Bella and Jacob. 

The heartbreak reminds me of Ross and Rachel, yes I am referencing a couple from the television show FRIENDS. I cried during their breakups, even on reruns, knowing they were going to get back together in the end. Even though I knew that this wasn't the end of Bella and Edward, I still had tears building up in my eyes. 

More foreshadowing lets readers know that there is a connection between Bella hearing the sniffing of a dog while she's lying on the forest ground, and the rest of the story. Eventually Jacob can't see Bella anymore, and it brings Bella back into the depression that once held her when Edward left. Jacob was saying the same things that Edward had once said, but this time Jacob wants Bella to guess his secret, and refuses to leave her the way Edward had, no matter how dangerous. I found it interesting that Bella figures out both mysteries in her dreams; it's like her subconscious knew all along what Edward and Jacob really were. 

Bella learns that if she does stupid and reckless things, she can see Edward, hear his voice, and believe that he still cares. Meanwhile, Victoria is still after Bella for revenge. Eventually Bella pushes her reckless limits and before you know it, she's in Italy, running for her life... and Edward's. The way Meyer describes the last few chapters is truly incredible, and made me feel like I was in the story, looking back in the Volturi's blood thirsty eyes. 

"Before you, Bella, my life was like a moonless night. Very dark, but there were stars - points of light and reason... And then you shot across my sky like a meteor. Suddenly everything was on fire; there was brillancy, there was beauty. When you were gone, when the meteor had fallen over the horizon, everything went black. Nothing had changed, but my eyes were blinded by the light. I couldn't see the stars anymore. And there was no more reason for anything" (page 514). 

My Rating: 5 Stars

I used to be...

I used to be jealous of all the happy couples I saw when I was out with Sal. Not to say that we weren't happy and in love, but we weren't always as affectionate as others in public. My friends would tell me that we looked as if we were best friends, instead of boyfriend and girlfriend.

Now here we are 5 years later... Sal and I are still together, meanwhile all of these couples that I was jealous of at one point or another, have broken up.

I laugh now... Why had I even been jealous? It was as if they were trying to fool everyone, along with themselves that everything was fine and that they were some happy couple, when clearly, behind closed doors, they were not.

Sal and I don't have to be affectionate in public, at least not to show each other or anyone else how much we love each other, because if anyone took a glimpse at us, they'd notice the little, subtle looks when we glance at each other, the small smiles, and laughs. Because after 5 years, sometimes we can talk to each other without even uttering a word. It's magical, really.

Our relationship works for us. This is not to say that all couples can act like best friends above everything else, and it's not to say that some couples that display public affection aren't happy... because I'm sure some couples are.

It's to say that there is no reason to compare one relationship to the next... to think that one relationship is better or that one couple is happier than the next, because everyone's definition of happy and definition of a relationship varies.

If you were to ask those couples if they thought that Sal and I were going to still be together in 5 years, I'm sure most of them would have said no. Sal and I are both extremely stubborn and strong-minded individuals, and while we both love each other with everything we have, we also argue often because we may not agree about everything. Many have probably been there for an argument or two, but at the end of the day, those arguments didn't matter, they didn't mean anything. We were, and still are, best friends above all else, above being boyfriend and girlfriend, and I wouldn't trade that for anything in the world. I think that's what made this relationship last as long as it has. We're there for each other 24/7, we are open and honest about our feelings and have great communication, and we love each other unconditionally.

Don't be jealous. Don't compare. Just know that love is love and it doesn't have to be paraded around or shown off like a trophy, because if it's real, true love... people will just know. The love Sal and I share was never forced, it just happened.

Happy 5 Year Anniversary - I love you Salvatore Michael, forever and always. Thank you for making these last 5 years, this last half of a decade so incredible and memorable. I don't know what I would have done without you. I can't wait for these next 5 years to see what's in store for us.

12.17.07

ViewSPORT Tanktop: Product Review

Since I've gotten into working out 6x a week, I've been obsessing over all things fitness. If you ask me what's on my Christmas list, about 90% of the things I listed are fitness related. Let's be honest though, most of the time you can't wait for Santa to come, so you end up buying it yourself. That's what happened to me a few months ago... I just needed this ViewSPORT tanktop, especially because I was kickboxing 3x a week.

ViewSPORT is "an innovative fitness apparel line focused on the motivated athlete, sports teams, the military, and others looking to get the most from their fitness and training efforts." Their apparel has sweat activated technology that reveals a design or words once the perspiration comes in contact with the fabric, which makes you that much more determined to give your workouts your all, so that the words can reward you! 

{Their mission} - "ViewSPORT’s mission is to motivate and empower all those interested in living healthier and more active lives with a new tool to visibly measure their hard work." (and let me just tell you, it works!)

There are plenty of men and women's apparel to choose from, in many different colors and styles. I chose the "Drowned In Their Own Sweat" Charcoal on Teal Tank, in a small because you want it to be form fitting. I had talked to a representative from ViewSPORT on Twitter who helped me with sizing and a small discount! Make sure you network people! I got a great deal on it at the time, and I couldn't have been more excited when I received it in the mail! 

I threw it on before I headed to an intense hour of kickboxing, knowing that I would sweat, and making sure I pushed myself even harder in order for the sweat activated technology to work, and boy did it ever! The words, TRAIN HARDER, appeared on the lower back of my tanktop, so I wasn't able to see it until I got home, but lucky enough for me the words were still there. 

Not only does this make you work harder, but it makes working out fun! While I was kickboxing, I kept thinking how awesome it was that people close to my bag could look at my back and see words of inspiration. Who knows, maybe it made them train harder as well! 

I love this tank top and wear it as often as I can. If you haven't mailed your wishlist out to Santa yet, I think you should definitely add a ViewSPORT tank to the bottom, or maybe even to the top of your list. Now I just need to decide which tanktop I want next! 

Want to learn more about ViewSPORT? Visit their pages! 

Website: ViewSPORT

Twitter: ViewSPORT

Facebook: ViewSPORT

YouTube: ViewSPORT

*All of the above opinions are my own. ViewSPORT didn't compensate me or ask that I write a review, I simply wrote one because I love the product. 

It's going to be LEGEND... wait for it

... DARY!

This year, there were no surprises for Sal on his birthday like there were last year. He didn't mind though, because he had some plans of his own. He's been obsessed with How I Met Your Mother for the past few months and wanted to make his 23rd birthday LEGEND... wait for it ... DARY! So of course he decided to make everyone SUIT UP! I told the girls that he invited to wear plaid shirts though because we were headed back to Colorado Cafe, one of the few country bars in NJ, with a mechanical bull that is sure to make anyone's trip worthwhile!

That afternoon, before we headed to the bar, I gave him one of his presents and then we decided to grab a birthday lunch - my treat. A burger and fries was all he wanted, and even though I wanted the waiters and waitresses to sing to him, I decided against it, for which he was all too grateful for. It's okay, I'll get him next year ;)

We got our cowboy boots on, and dressed to impress, no seriously... suit, tie, black pants, and for me a dress.

When we arrived, we weren't the first ones there, and soon all of his friends were there. Everyone stared at us, and one person even asked why we were all dressed up - of course, Sal told him it was for his birthday and the guy was instantly upset because it was his birthday too and all him and his friends had on were party hats! We laughed until it hurt, and some of us drank a little too much, and with myself being the D.D, I was able to watch everyone have fun and snap a few pictures here and there. Most of his friends took their turns riding the bull, and it was great to try and see who could stay on the longest.

Everyone's music was played, because Friday nights they play all different genres, and so we all made our way to the dance floor several times during the night.

Even though we left before everyone, Sal had an incredible night with all of his friends. You know you had a good night when you need a taylor ham, egg and cheese on a bagel the next morning!

Happy Birthday Salvatore! I love you, and I hope you had a truly legendary night. Here's to the next year!

[via instagram: kristynnicole1]

Twilight: Book Review

Ever since Breaking Dawn Part II came out, I fell in love with the Twilight Saga, by Stephenie Meyer, all over again, and even though I had already read and finished all of the books, I immediately started reading them over. This gave me the perfect chance to give 4 new book reviews on my blog, since I had read them before I started this blog. I might be biased because I love the saga, and only fell deeper in love with the books the second time around, but I just can't help it, and you'll learn why, starting with the first book, Twilight.

Synopsis According to Barnes&Noble:

Isabella Swan's move to Forks, a small, perpetually rainy town in Washington, could have been the most boring move she ever made. But once she meets the mysterious and alluring Edward Cullen, Isabella's life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn. Up until now, Edward has managed to keep his vampire identity a secret in the small community he lives in, but now nobody is safe, especially Isabella, the person Edward holds most dear. The lovers find themselves balanced precariously on the point of a knife-between desire and danger. Deeply romantic and extraordinarily suspenseful, Twilight captures the struggle between defying our instincts and satisfying our desires. This is a love story with bite.

My Review:

I never read books twice, but Twilight is definitely a book that I could read over and over again, and still fall deeper into the story. No matter where I'm reading this book, I feel as if I'm in Forks, standing right next to Bella and Edward from the meadow to the ballet studio. Reading it this second time, it was exactly how I remembered it, each and every chapter. I absolutely love how easily Bella and Edward's relationship develops so quick, but so gradually... neither of them can stay away from each other, from the moment they first lay eyes on each other. Readers are able to feel the passion and imagine the scenes playing in their heads. Bella and Edward have the kind of love where they can't be away from the other; minutes feel like hours. I know it may sound like a teenagers first love, but this is something so much more - they never had a choice. 

Not only does their relationship develop quickly, but their love grows like wildfire. They spend nights talking, talking about theories of what Edward could be, and how although he tells her he's dangerous, they both know there's nothing they can do - they're already in love. 

I never noticed it when I read it the first time, but there is a ton of foreshadowing, between Jacob being a wolf, Edward talking about leaving to keep Bella safe, and Bella talking about hurting herself to keep Edward close - of course we find none of this out until the last few pages of Twilight and the beginning of New Moon. While Edward is brutally honest with Bella in the meadow - wanting to kill her, but going to extreme measures not to by going to Alaska and trying to ignore her, "the lion fell in love with the lamb." Their love, though it's seemingly unnatural, feels so natural, so right. They are the most important things in each others lives. I feel like I can relate to the relationship between Bella and Edward, especially Bella feeling so lost without him, needing to be with him 24/7. 

The end becomes more intense as readers flip the page - from Bella discovering the history of the Cullen's, which is fascinating and interesting... how they came to be and  how they possess powers, or rather their senses intensified in their new life. I found Alice's previous life to be the most interesting, because she didn't remember her human life, having been in an asylum before she was changed into a vampire. 

While Bella was tricked so so easily into meeting up with her enemy, I'm so glad that Edward made it on time and that the ending was more or less a happy one, at prom - leaving readers thinking that he's going to bite her and turn her into a vampire. However, I will say that I found the fight scene to be a little dull, at least when you compare it to those in the following books. 

I would recommend this book, and the saga, to anyone. It has a little bit of everything for everyone - love and passion, fight scenes and suspense, and mystery. 

"What if I'm not a superhero? What if I'm the bad guy? He smiled playfully, but his eyes were impenetrable" (page 92). 

"Because when I thought of him, of his voice, his hypnotic eyes, the magnetic force of his personality, I wanted nothing more than to be with him right now" (page 139). 

My Rating: 5 Stars

DIY: Kitchen Canister

I bought a bag of perfect fit protein, but when I received it, I couldn't get it closed no matter how hard I tried to zip it back up. I didn't want the protein powder going 'stale' or bad in anyway, so I was on the look out for a storage project. That was when I found the perfect solution on Elle - a Tone It Up sister's twitter, an inexpensive do it yourself canister!

What You'll Need:

1 Glass Canister (any size)
Chalkboard Labels
Chalk

Directions:

1. Take whatever it is you want to store and pour into the canister.

2. Write what it is that you put in the canister using the chalk on the chalkboard labels.

3. Place chalkboard label on to the canister! That's all - place on countertop in the kitchen!

Results of My 5 Day Slim Down

I was debating on doing a post regarding my 5 Day Slim Down. I didn't want to post about how much weight I had lost because I didn't do it to lose weight. On the other hand, I wanted to write about how it boosted my confidence at just the right time, and made me feel that much better about myself - not only because I looked better, but because I felt better, less bloated, and in control. I knew that I could accomplish anything that I wanted to if I set my mind to it. I was hesitant at first to do a slim down, having had the Tone It Up Nutrition Plan since September, but when the whole Tone It Up team was doing it, during the second week of the Holiday Hottie Series, I knew I couldn't fail... I had many, many teammates who were there to support me and motivate me, as well as give me ideas as to what to eat and help answer any questions that I had.

During the 5 Day Slim Down, I followed it exactly as it's written in the plan. I also was able to complete two workouts a day [cardio in the morning, and toning in the afternoon]. It was difficult not eating any of the dinners that my family had made, but I was able to push through it. I tried not to go out to dinner or drinks, and when I did, because let's be honest you can't just avoid your social life, I opted to be the designated driver, or I ate before I went out and stuck with water. Eating 5 meals a day was easy, because I had been doing that for months now - sometimes even having a sixth "meal," tea for dessert. However, I had to eat specific things for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and even snacks were limited. I just kept thinking in my head that it's only for 5 days, and it helped when I was craving something that I couldn't have. I didn't cave once when it came to my cravings.

The week before, during the first week of the Holiday Hottie Series, I was able to lose 3 lbs, and I was so proud, happy even that I had lost weight. During the second week, during the 5 Day Slim Down (5DSD), I was able to lose another 3 lbs and tone up. I felt less bloated, which is one benefit to doing the 5DSD and I suggest that anyone do it before a big event or a day at the beach, because you will look your slimmest! I felt amazing, and I couldn't wait to tell everyone my results.

I took pictures of my progress, and you can see them below. I did it for my benefit only, but if it helps others with their healthy lifestyle, then I'm more than happy to share. I'm not trying to sell the Tone It Up Nutrition Plan, I'm just trying to motivate each and every reader to be more mindful of what they're eating and try and live a healthier life.

The first picture is from before the Holiday Hottie Series began. The second picture is after the first week, while the third picture is after the second week, or my 5DSD. You can tell that my muscles and V-line were more pronounced, however, it doesn't look like that anymore because I introduced the food that I hadn't eaten during those 5 days, back into my meals. 

After the 5DSD, I took a trip to Target, the place where you walk out with way more than you planned to buy. I found this adorable penguin mug as soon as I walked in and I couldn't think of a better way to reward myself for finishing my first slim down. Instead of rewarding myself with food, cheat meals especially, I decided to reward myself with something else, something cheap, but something that made me smile! It's the little things in life, really. 

If you want to know more about the nutrition plan, the slim down, or anything regarding leading a healthy lifestyle, comment or email me and I will try and answer all of your questions. 

Thanksgiving Day & A Turkey Trot

I signed both Sal and I up for a Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving a few months ago, and we started training as soon as I clicked Register! We followed the C25K app for the most part, but only got to week 5 because of Hurricane Sandy and a day or two of snow. We felt prepared though, and I couldn't wait to race around the beautiful lake. However, when we got to the lake it was extremely cold. We were smart enough to pick up matching, yes matching because we're cute like that, Nike shirts to help keep us warm, and keep the sweat out. I also picked up a North Face ear warmer, which definitely helped while I was running. My ears, for some reason, are always the most cold part of my body when I run, and it hurts! 

We got there early and stretched, trying to keep ourselves warm by walking up and down the 'boardwalk' by the lake. There were over 2,000 people who participated in the Turkey Trot, and it was incredible feeling the adrenaline in the air. I think that's what helped push me because I didn't stop running once. Every kind of emotion ran through me when I ran through the finish line from joy to pride to unbelievable inspiration, it was so overwhelming that I had tears in my eyes. Sal and I didn't run together because I didn't want to hold him back, I wanted him to run it as fast as he could, and I knew I would be preoccupied trying to keep up with him. So I went at my own pace and I was only 2-3 minutes behind him. He saw me cross the finish line and ran to find me. That feeling I will never forget. We were happy, smiling - proud of each other. 

We quickly ate the bagels and orange slices, and sucked down a bottle of water after the race. Waiting for the results had us both anxious... we just wanted to know our times! In the end we were shocked and a little upset by the results that were posted, but not after we found out that the results posted were the gun times, and we didn't cross the start line until roughly 2-3 minutes into the race. Thankfully our chip times started as soon as we crossed the start line and stopped when we crossed the finish line. 

My gun time was 28:25, which I was happy with to an extent. I went into the race knowing that I wanted to get under 30 minutes. Sal's gun time was 24:50, and he wasn't too please with that time either. 

My chip time, however, ended up being 26:59, and I was ecstatic! I came in 65th place in my age group, which wasn't too bad, considering it was my first 5K and there were A LOT of people. Sal's chip time was actually 23:24, which was amazing! I couldn't believe it and I was so proud of him, especially because he gave it his all. He came in 62nd place in his age group, which was fantastic! 

Now we plan on continuing the C25K app to decrease our time and to help us keep running before our next 5K, because there will definitely be more in our future. 

We made it home and spent Thanksgiving with our families, separately. I finished making the appetizers, while my mom worked on the main course. It was incredible, and it felt so good to eat food after having gotten up bright and early and running. From turkey to sweet potatoes and rolls to green bean casserole, I was in heaven. I enjoyed a nice glass of wine or two with dinner, and we spent the afternoon talking, eating, and watching the football game. We shared a lot of great laughs and I could not have asked for a better Thanksgiving spent with those I love. I brought out the dessert, and although everyone was still full, they tried them, and loved them. For the appetizer and dessert recipes, check out my other blog - Kay's Sweet Obsessions. 

If you get the chance, sign up for a 5K! Let me know which one you signed up for or have done in the past! I'm signing up for a Color Run in March, but I'm looking for more to do before then! 

A Celebration Date Night

When I passed my certification exam, I was extremely excited not only because I passed, but because my nights would no longer be filled with studying and reading. I must admit, I give Sal a lot of credit for coming over and sitting with me as I studied. So when I passed, Sal was just as excited as I was. We immediately planned to go out that weekend to celebrate. We chose to go to a restaurant a few towns over because the chef was a Chopped Champion.

I ordered a glass of white wine, while he ordered a beer. We cheered; I was now a Certified Child Life Specialist. The atmosphere was perfect, they put us in the back corner, so it felt like we were alone. We ordered mussels for our appetizer, but I must admit they weren't as good as we were hoping. I was really disappointed because I thought our whole entire meal was going to be bad. Thankfully we didn't leave, and we had amazing entrees, and the dessert wasn't too bad either!

Once the food was devoured, we just sat there enjoying each others company, sipping on our drinks, talking and laughing. Overall, I'd definitely recommend this restaurant, and the title is definitely deserved... just don't order the mussels!

Afterwards, we headed home, but not to call it a night! Instead, we picked up my brother and his friend and headed to the bowling alley. Sal and I hadn't been there in years, but we both looked at each other, knowing that the first time we hung out was at a bowling alley with two friends. We were 16 and apparently the bowling alley was the cool place to hang out, especially on Fridays during laser bowling!

We played boys v. girls and even though we won the first time, the boys got better throughout the night, and beat us, and then beat us again. I had the top score of the night, which I was pretty proud of - 132!

We still didn't go home after we left the bowling alley. We took a long drive, listening and singing to country music, and there's honestly no better way to end the night.

The Tone It Up Nutrition Plan

I found Tone It Up back in July, I had just gotten back from the Dominican Republic with Sal and I knew that by looking at some of the pictures, I wanted my body to be more fit and toned. I was searching the internet and came across their website, packed with healthy recipes, challenges, and workouts! While I saw that there was a nutrition plan, I didn't purchase it right away, especially because I couldn't see spending $150 on it. Instead I bought the Beach Babe workout DVD and the Perfect Fit Protein. I began working out using their videos and DVD, as well as attending kickboxing classes and running. I also started eating lean, clean and green. I had stopped eating fast food and drinking soda all together before I even started working out, but while working out I tried to eat less processed foods as well. I began to see a huge transformation.

It wasn't until after the Beach Week Challenge, in early September, when I came back from Vermont with Sal, that I took the plunge and bought the Tone It Up Nutrition Plan. I had won a beach babe prize pack during the week, and that made me even more determined than ever to stay on this healthy path.

"Karena and Katrina, founders of Tone It Up, combine their backgrounds as Certified Personal Trainers, Nutritionists, Athletes and Lifestyle Coaches with their personal experiences and struggles to help you achieve a healthy weight and lifestyle with the Tone It Up Nutrition Plan."

The plan includes over 100 pages of what Karena and Katrina eat, their recipes, how to tone up, and explanations of different foods you should avoid. It's as if your personal trainers are right their with you in the kitchen, gym, and living room! There are 5 different types of plans available, perfect for anyone's lifestyle - regular, vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, and pescatarian. I bought the regular plan, and absolutely love it.  When you purchase the plan, you have a lifetime membership, which means that you will be emailed every single update! It's a one time, get all kind of deal!


Here's what is included when you purchase the plan:

• Tone It Up™ Nutrition Plan. (Regular, Gluten Free, Vegan Pescatarian or Vegetarian)
• Lifetime Access to the Members Only Group with Support
• Lifetime of Free Updates to Plan & New Recipes
• Measurement Guide and Chart to track your progress.
• Grocery List and Delicious Recipes- PANCAKES!
• BONUS 7 Day Slim Down- Slimming Plan to prepare for an event.
• BONUS Full Body Blast Fitness Program.
• BONUS Abs Program that gives you a toned core and slims your waistline.
• Comes as a PDF file for immediate download. You’ll receive all future bonuses & updates as well!
• Lifetime Membership to the Tone It Up Team which includes:
  Access to the Exclusive Area of the Online Community to discuss the plan with Karena & Katrina and other Tone It Up Team Members.Weekly Emails with Q&A, motivation and exclusive recipes and offers for Team Members!
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With this plan, you're not only changing your lifestyle for the better, but you're able to meet amazing ladies that are inspirational and motivational! I've 'met' women from all over the world, that push me everyday to be the best I can be, to workout, and eat healthier. For me, it was never about losing weight, I just wanted to feel more confident and tone up my stomach. I've found that this Tone It Up team holds so much more for each of us, than we could have ever imagined.

The slim downs are what really sold me, because aren't we always looking for a way to slim down quickly? Well Karena and Katrina include a 5 Day and a 7 Day slim down to do once or twice a month right before a big event! Have a wedding coming up where you might bump into your ex? Hitting the beach and want to look extra sexy? Or did you just enjoy a little too much turkey at Thanksgiving? These slim downs are perfect. I actually did my first 5 Day Slim Down quite recently and I was able to lose 3lbs in just 5 days, in a healthy way of course - eating right and exercising! 

[This was before the 5 Day Slim Down]

On this plan, I've been able to eat what I love by figuring out healthier ways to make it like pancakes, chocolate cake, and ice cream! Yes, you can eat all of that, in moderation of course! Below are a few of my meals from the plan that I've made so far, and believe me, there are still pages and pages of recipes that I have yet to try yet! 

Still hesitant? Check out some success stories on their website - here. 


Today could not be a more perfect day to purchase the plan because it's CYBER MONDAY and Karena and Katrina are offering an amazing deal! Buy your nutrition plan for $150, and they're also going to gift you with the Beach Babe DVD, Pink Tone It Up Hat, Tone It Up Water Bottle, a Packet of Perfect Fit and a coupon, as well as a Tone It Up Decal! I mean what could be better than that!? 

If you're still unsure, comment below or email me with any questions you have, and I'll gladly answer them honestly and thoroughly!