 Let's face it, 2020 has been quite a year! We have all been faced with challenges over the course of the last 11 months, and to be honest, it hasn't been a breeze for me! I had to take an extended break from the blog due to personal reasons, but I'm excited to be back and kicking off my 3rd annual "12 Days of Fitmas Challenge" along with a revised Holiday Wellness guide! Regardless of the circumstances, my passion for helping others will never fade, and I look forward to improving this website and blog for all of you in the coming year! Thank you for your support, and I can't wait to see what 2021 as in store!
Get more healthy recipes to help you be more successful on your journey here! Eating clean doesn't have to be boring or bland! Need assistance with making better food choices? Take my free nutrition assessment!
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 When you start questioning “why”, remember that your journey, your very existence is so much more thank you can even fathom. I can’t tell you how many days I wonder if I’m doing the right thing. If all the sacrifices are worth it. If anyone would care (or notice) if I just slipped back into the shadows when there’s nothing left to give. I know these are fears and doubts with the sole purpose of staying [or returning to what is] comfortable (and stagnant), but they are very real, some days stronger than others. What I’ve discovered is that in those moments, when you feel most vulnerable and broken, is when it’s most crucial to fight back. Believing that you’re on the right path and that others are watching/benefiting from your light. That as hard as it can be to give and go the extra step when you feel empty, that gift of your time and energy (not just to others but also yourself) is priceless, and it contributes greatly to refilling our cup. It’s normal to question “why?” in the toughest of moments, but the why that drives us will always set our hearts right.  If you're ready for a change, don't wait to start your wellness journey! If you would like to work one-on-one, check out my personal training services!
Get healthy recipes to help you be more successful on your journey here! Eating clean doesn't have to be boring or bland! Need assistance with making better food choices? Take my free nutrition assessment!  We've all probably heard this saying hundreds of times, and as cliche as it seems, it couldn't prove more true for real life when we face obstacles! Lemons on their own are bitter, sour and not usually something you'll just eat on their own. But when combined with the right ingredients (whether sweet or savory), they impart a special tang and flavor that cant be achieved without them. Being without water the last couple of days has tested my patience more than I'd like to admit, but it's also given me an opportunity to think outside the box and make the best of an otherwise uncomfortable situation. This large, glass beverage server has been on top of our refrigerator since we moved, getting covered in dust (that I clean off once every couple of months before placing right back atop the fridge) sitting largely unused.  I had contemplated getting rid of it, but when my husband told me we wouldn't have running water, it was the first thing that came to mind as a temporary solution in a pinch. It might not be an ideal fix, but it was a lot better than having no "running" water at all. We can lose sight very quickly of the importance of the little things when everything is going smoothly. There may even be times when we feel useless, collecting dust on a forgotten shelf...unseen or unheard, as though we have no more value to bring. This couldn't be further from the truth, dear friends. So what's the lesson here? It's often not until a setback occurs that we realize how crucial the small details and niceties are, and it also parallels to how God can use us as a vessel for good when we least expect it. It may not be pretty, it certainly won't always be the most convenient, but it's another chance to show that you won't let your current circumstances blot out the rest of the blessings around you. In a world full of "lemons", make the best of what's around by pouring all the goodness you can into each moment. If you're ready for a change, you can start your journey for FREE in my Wonderfully Fit Transformations Facebook group! If you would like to work one on one, check out my personal training services!
Get healthy recipes to help you be more successful on your journey here! Eating clean doesn't have to be boring or bland :) Need assistance with making better food choices? Take my free nutrition assessment! You can also take advantage of free workouts, recipes and more by signing up for my weekly newsletter!  "When you cut out the things that tax your energy needlessly, there’s more time for the things that matter most..."*I’m sharing my reflections during a recent break from IG which helped me reflect on a lot of things, and I hope it will benefit some of you too!* . It's a continuous battle finding that happy medium between having our lives together (or the appearance thereof) while juggling parenthood, filling the roles of a loving spouse/family member/friend, work obligations, having a successful career, pursuing individual fitness goals, maintaining a social life...I could go on (and I'm sure you have a list all your own too). . There is a lot of pressure from social media to do "all the things", to win at everything all the time, but how realistic is that standard? . Are the continuous pulls in every direction diluting our ability to process the present? Is it something we allow to take over, or more of a subconscious shift that society has taken as a whole? . These are some of the pressing questions I've asked myself lately, and I started to realize that the continual draw on my attention and energy was turning from a positive light to shadow. . When that happens, friends, no matter what the area in your life, it's time to take a step back and evaluate. . That's exactly what I did...and taking that step helped me to see other areas that needed attention. . Relationships that were lacking the same care of prior years, home projects that were put off with being "too busy", or due diligence in the "official business" category that had fallen down the priority list (among other things). . It was so apparent I was completely off-center from the outside looking in, but in the midst of everything I was trying to "balance" it was much harder to pick up on the cause(s).  "I'm opening up about this to let you know that its OKAY to feel overwhelmed..."...and it's also 100% OKAY to take a step back to self-audit and realign your priorities when something is bothering you deep down. . When a situation feels off, listen to that discernment in your spirit, and take an objective look at your current circumstances from a distance. . If that self-analysis reveals some things that need to be limited or curtailed in order to achieve better fulfillment, make those adjustments for yourself before things start to unravel. . Whether its a bad habit, a social media platform, an unhealthy relationship or some other factor you can control, assess, take note, re-prioritize, and act accordingly. . As hard as it might be, having that brutal honesty with yourself will allow you to make room for the things that matter most.  If you're ready for a change, I'd love for you to join my FREE health and wellness support group on facebook!
Get healthy recipes to help you be more successful on your journey here! Eating clean doesn't have to be boring or bland! Need assistance with making better food choices? Take my free nutrition assessment!  My latests "healthy spin" creation, the Cinnamon Bun Coffee Cake! I've been making more time for creating new recipes again, something I absolutely love that brings fond memories of moments in the kitchen with my dad! Some days I just wake up and random inspiration comes, this recipe sprouted from the first thought of pancakes for breakfast, then muffins, which eventually evolved to a full blown cake (I'm all about the one pan baking lol). It was so easy to put together, and a total hit with my husband and son! It wasn't in the house for two days! You all have been patiently waiting, so here it is!  Here's what you'll need...Dry Ingredients: 1 cup Almond Flour (I like Bob's Red Mill Brand, or Kirkland from Costco!) 1.5 cups Kodiak Cakes Power Cake Mix (Buttermilk) 3/4 cup Lakanto Golden Monkfruit Sweetener (this is my go-to Zero Calorie, Non-Glycemic sweetene, making this recipe sugar free! I love baking with this because there is no weird aftertaste and the baked goods come out just as if using regular sugar!) 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp baking powder Pinch salt Wet Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk (I used grass-fed organic by Organic Valley, they graciously sponsored this ingredient to make this recipe possible!) 2 whole large eggs (also by Organic Valley, our chickens are molting and not laying regularly so we opted for the next best with their Omega-3 Large free range eggs!) 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 cup olive oil (can use another variety as desired like organic canola/MCT oil) Cinnamon Swirl and Bottom Glaze: 1/4 cup Lakanto Golden Sweetener 3 tbsp melted butter 1 tsp cinnamon 1/4 cup chopped pecans (for topping)  I've got the best helper! And taste tester too lol Putting it all together...Directions: Preheat the oven to 350F. Mix all dry ingredients in a large bowl, then create a pocket for the liquid. In a smaller bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, vanilla and olive oil until blended, then pour into the dry mixture. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well incorporated, but don't over-mix! In a small saucepan (stovetop) or ramekin (microwave) melt the butter, cinnamon and Lakanto together. Spread half of the mixture into the bottom of dark, nonstick cake pan.  Pour the batter over top, then swirl remaining cinnamon/butter/monkfruit mix into the top of the cake. Sprinkle chopped pecans over evenly (a little crunch and razzle dazzle lol) Bake 26-30 minutes or until its lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean! Allow to cool for a few minutes before devouring! (Makes 12 servings)  I hope you all will enjoy this recipe, its delicious with coffee or on the side of your favorite egg scramble!   Looking for more recipe ideas? I've got you covered! Get more healthy breakfast recipes here!
Need assistance with making better food choices? Take my free nutrition assessment! Follow me on social media! I'd love to connect with you, and you can always reach out with questions or recipe suggestions too!  I Wish He Knew...I wish he knew...
. He didn’t have to go it alone. . That no matter how hard he tried to overcome, when the burdens felt too great, we’d love him even more. . That hurt and brokenness that wouldn’t ease...the sadness and anger didn’t have to be comforted by food. . His family that loved him could have been enough to fight through. . They didn’t fully understand why he was sick and didn’t know how to help him. . And when he left, the great loss shattered and broke them. . That despite in the sadness of his early retreat, it planted the seed for a legacy so great. . His daughters and sons, continue to fight...for their country, their families, and to lift others through hate. . Each day is to honor a man who loved deeply, and championed causes for those in dire straits. . He fought to the last, but God called him home....his gifts were needed, beside the heavenly throne. . We will meet again, Lord, this I know. . . . For you Dad, I miss you so much.  Sometimes a little hiatus is just what you need to gain clarity... Taking a step back for perspective is something I am TERRIBLE at. I need to be knee deep in the trenches to feel as though I’m being productive, but in reality, it’s easy for the waters to get real muddy, real fast. This past week was the first time in probably 2 years that I disconnected completely from Instagram...I spent time in prayer, with my family, and thinking about who I am...what I’m working toward with my business and life. I came to a few conclusions, really more affirmations of things that have been on my heart for a long time, and I can’t tell you how refreshing it feels in my soul. I wanted to share them with you in hopes it might speak to those of you who find yourself lost in the social realm, looking to grow your business or just gain support along your journey. 1. We aren’t here to live up to the ideals of society, but to serve a unique purpose God intended for us...As someone who grew up without much at times, picked on A LOT, and never feeling good enough, I always sought the approval of others to build my self esteem. It’s one of the most damaging dependencies you can have, because no matter what, you’ll end up disappointed, never feeling your true worth (if any at all). . We aren’t here to live up to the ideals of society, but to serve a unique purpose God intended for us...embrace that with your whole heart, and He will give you what you need to be exactly the beautiful soul you’re supposed to.  2. We place way more importance on temporary problems that they actually deserve.Ask for clarity, understanding and patience when challenges come up. Stop and evaluate what you can do, what you can’t, and do/don’t do those things, and leave the rest of the outcome alone. You’ll find more peace, less stress, and often see those challenges actually serve you for the better down the road. 3. Don’t compromise who you are, or what you believe in, to “fit in”.We so often think of peer pressure as something that affects younger generations, when in reality it plagues every age group. No one is exempt from the imposed standards of others, unless they choose not to play. In a nutshell, be yourself, don’t react so quickly, and stay true to your values...I’m sure it’s been said before, but we have to live it before it becomes truth for our lives so we can attain more happiness and fulfillment. . That’s my #compass moving forward, how about you?  If you're ready to shift your life compass, I'd be happy to help! I offer free support and education that can benefit you along your fitness journey, inside and out via private facebook group! Contact me for more information, or if you would like to work one on one, check out my personal training services!
Get healthy recipes to help you be more successful on your journey here! Eating clean doesn't have to be boring or bland! Need assistance with making better food choices? Take my free nutrition assessment!  Is it just me, or do stuffed things seem more delicious?As a kid, my mom would sometimes make stuffed peppers, tomatoes, shells, jalapeños, cucumbers...you name it! I didn’t know any better then, but I’m pretty sure there was some sound psychological strategy to get the 6 of us kids to eat our vegetables and try new things... well played ma, well played lol. One of my favorite combos was tuna salad stuffed tomatoes, and so I decided to do a little swap and try it with wild salmon instead! They came out sooooo good, it was hard not to eat two in one sitting!  These babies are super macro friendly, with each tomato coming out to 180 Calories, 18.6g Protein, 9.7g Carbs and 7.6g Fat...so I technically could eat two of I wanted... #foodforthought The other great thing is they are quick to put together and don’t require heating up your kitchen (issss HAWT here in OH right now, not even trying to cook). Here’s the full recipe for these Salmon Stuffed Tomatoes! Ingredients:You’ll need 4 medium hothouse tomatoes, tops sliced off (set aside) and seeded (drain any juice out too so it doesn’t sog up your filling #homechef Tip: slice a thin strip off the bottom of your tomatoes so they don’t roll over after you fill them) 2-6oz cans of wild salmon - drained (or tuna if you prefer) 1 tbsp sweet relish 2 tbsp avocado mayo (I used Sir Kensingtons in this recipe, so good!) 1 oz Organic Valley Whole Fat Plain yogurt (helps make the salad extra creamy without a significant amount of added fat) 2 tbsp diced vidalia onion 1 oz diced sweet mini peppers Optional Garnished: Fresh cilantro, basil, pepper, or evenred chili flakes if you like it hot! Putting it together...Once your tomatoes are prepped, combine all ingredients (except garnish) in a medium sized mixing bowl. Mash together with a fork until everything is evenly incorporated, then divide between the 4 tomatoes (about 1/2 cup of filling each). Toss on your herb(s), and don’t forget to keep your lid (there’s usually a lot of tomato on there you can cut up to have with the creamy salmon! Enjoy friends! Now I want to know, what’s your favorite stuffed food? Feel free to comment below this recipe!  Enjoy friends, for lunch or dinner, and remember there's no cooking required so its a super easy fix for a busy home!
Get more healthy lunch recipes here! Need assistance with making better food choices? Take my free nutrition assessment!  When you lose all of your excuses, you’ll find what you were truly meant for.When I first started my journey, it was mostly focused on looking a certain way, no matter how I got there. All the fad diets, tons of cardio and overall deprivation. It was always the same, a quick loss followed by an even more rapid gain, back in a depression and unhappy with my body. The thing was, I wanted the quick fix, I’d make the excuses or find reasons not to do the work. I was weak, lacked self esteem, and just wanted to get out of my situation as fast as possible. The thing is, when we take that approach, it never lasts, and we are left more broken and defeated than before. Not because we CANT do it, but because we aren’t doing what’s necessary to get the job done the RIGHT way. Stop conceding, compromising with yourself on what you’ve set out to do. Quit looking for a quick fix, because there isn’t one.Do what you can, and then do it some more, every single day without fail. That is the secret sauce, the recipe for achieving your goals and then some. It may take a swift kick in the rear, but sometimes that’s just what we need to put things in perspective. If you’re tired of giving yourself the runaround, make that change starting now! And if you need a hand, a friend along the way, I’m here for you 🖤Let’s do this together...  If you would like to work one on one, check out my personal training services!
Get healthy recipes to help you be more successful on your journey here! Eating clean doesn't have to be boring or bland! Need assistance with making better food choices? Take my free nutrition assessment!  Summer is right around the corner! And that means alllll the smoothies! Not only are they a healthy alternative to a regular meal, they also save a lot of time! I would love to go all out in the kitchen for breakfast every day, sometimes that just isn't practical! So on days when time is at a premium, I usually default to smoothies that I can take with me, or walk around with while getting things done. Another great perk is my son can also enjoy it relatively mess free 🤗 Usually when I make anything, smoothie or otherwise, I just grab what's on hand in the fridge (or freezer) and cross my fingers that it will be good 🙊 This combo came out pretty darn tasty, and it's also low in fat, high in protein and full of nutrients to fuel your morning! ☀️ What you'll need: 1/2 Apple, sliced (Fuji or other sweet variety) 1 kiwi fruit, peeled 1 cup frozen mixed berries 1 scoop vanilla ice cream protein powder 1/8 lime (a medium sized wedge, peeled) 1/3-1/2 cup water (depending on how "frozen" you like it) ❄️ Combine all ingredients in your blender, mixing until smooth...pour into a glass, sink a straw in and sip away! This would also work very well for a smoothie bowl, just top with some of your favorite add-ons 🍓🍌🍒  Enjoy friends, for breakfast, lunch or a healthy refreshing snack!
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AuthorKelly is a loving wife, mother, veteran, life-long athlete, personal trainer, and self taught cook with a passion for helping others. She hopes you will be inspired to live a healthier lifestyle while enjoying delicious meals cultivated in her home, and shared at your own tables. Archives
December 2020
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