Dark Chocolate Flourless Brownie Muffins

Dark Chocolate Flourless Brownie Muffins

Anything titled "dark chocolate" I'm a fan of!  These are super delicious and surprisingly healthy!!  PLUS, it's 21 Day Fix APPROVED!!


Yield: 12 servings, 1 cupcake each

Ingredients:

• 1 (15oz) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 3 Tbsp. coconut oil, melted
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
2. Prepare 12 muffin cups by lining with muffin papers or coating with non-stickcooking spray; set aside
3. Place chickpeas, eggs, maple syrup, cocoa powder, baking soda, coconut oil and extract in blender or food processor, cover.  Blend until smooth.
4. Divide batter into 12 prepared muffin cups
5. Top each muffin with about 4 chocolate chips; push into batter.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
7. Cool completely and enjoy!

21 Day Fix Containers (per serving, 1 muffin)

1 Yellow
1/2 Blue/Orange

Zucchini Lasagna Clean Eating

Zucchini Lasagna Clean Eating

Ingredients

 1 large onion

 2 cloves of garlic

 2 Zucchini, Large - sliced into ¼ " thick pieces

 10 oz Lean Ground Turkey

 1 24 oz jar of tomato sauce

 1 egg

 2 c low fat Cottage Cheese

 1 tsp whole wheat flour

 ½ cup Finely Shredded Mozzarella

 2 tbsp Grated Parmesean and Romano Cheese

Directions

1) Preheat oven to 350*

2) In a large non-stick frying pan, saute onion and garlic over medium heat until tender. Add tomato sauce and ground meat, and bring all ingredients to consistent heat for 10 minutes (until browned). Season with salt & pepper, to taste. Remove from heat.


3) In a small bowl, slightly beat the egg. Stir in cottage cheese, flour, and 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese.


4) Pour 1/2 of meat-tomato sauce mixture into a 1 1/2-quart roasting pan. Top with 1 1/4 cups zucchini slices and cottage cheese mixture.Then cover with remaining meat-tomato sauce mixture and zucchini


5) Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.


6) Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake 10 minutes longer


7) Let stand 10 minutes before serving.


*You can use a mandoline to slice zucchini  and also you have to salt the zucchini and let the water sweat out of it and then rinse it, otherwise it will be soupy. Also, in step 2, you can use the ground turkey and let it brown first and then added the sauce.

EMJOY!

XOXO, 

SJB
Independent Beachbody Coach 

The 21 Day Fix Extreme...What is it?

The 21 Day Fix has been a KILLER nutrition and fitness program!!  Have you heard of it?  Have you completed it?  Well, last year at this time, the 21 Day Fix launched and it was SO popular that it sold out in record breaking time. WHY??  Because the 21 Day Fix brought us something that so many of us need...SIMPLE and easy to follow nutrition plan, short and effective 30 minute workouts that ANYONE can do, and proportioned containers to aid in your nutrition to make YOU successful!

So, it has now been a year since the launch of the 21 Day Fix...so what's next?  None other than the 21 Day Fix Extreme!!  Yep, Autumn is back with yet another 21 Day Fix inspired program...but this time it's taking it to the next level.  This is her personal tips and nutrition that she uses to get ready for competition!  So you're learning from the best!!

What is 21 Day Fix EXTREME?

In the original 21 Day Fix, this was designed to make losing weight a simple process that everyone could understand...it made it possible for you to NEVER need to "Diet" again.  It gave simple, easy to follow way of eating, one that you can use the rest of your life!  This is why it became America's #1 fitness and nutrition program.  NOW, you can get seriously shredded in the shortest time possible with the 21 Day Fix EXTREME, created by Autumn Calabrese.  This is a breakthrough 21-Day fitness and nutrition program that combines simple portion control, clean eating and EXTREME 30-minute workouts to deliver a body that is heard, lean and defined.

It builds off the basics of 21 Day Fix and takes it to the next level.  Combine no-nonsense portion control with steady state aerobics, resistance training and explosive power moves.  The 21 Day Fix EXTREME is a complete functional fitness program that targets every muscle in the body to help you torch calories while creating a leaner, stronger and more functional physique.

Who should buy the 21 Day Fix Extreme?
The 21 Day Fix Extreme is ideal for those with a dramatic short-term weight loss deadline--such as an upcoming vacation, photo shoot, or other big event.  It's an excellent next step for 21 Day Fix graduates ready for a new challenge or graduates of other extreme programs like P90X, Insanity, Insanity Max:30, and Focus T25.  Fix Extreme is also great for those who don't have much weight to lose, but want to get shredded and see abs; those with a "no BS" attitude toward workouts and nutrition; or anyone who doesn't want to count calories, weigh their food, or follow complicated recipes.

What are the workouts?

• Plyo Fix Extreme- An explosive lower-body workout that uses jumping and resistance to torch calories and sculpt muscles.
• Upper Fix Extreme- By alternating opposing muscle groups, this no-rest upper-body workout will shred the chest, back, shoulders, and arms.
• Pilates Fix Extreme- Using a resistance band for every exercise, this intense mat workout works the entire body, placing emphasis on the core.
• Lower Fix Extreme- Glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves will get stronger, leaner, and more defined with 30 minutes of challenging resistance work.
• Cardio Fix Extreme- Combining weighted cardio moves with traditional metabolic training intervals keeps the heart rate soaring.
• Dirty 30 Extreme- Using only seven compound moves focusing on multiple body parts at a time, this workout will burn extra calories while defining muscles. Get down and dirty, and get it done.
• Yoga Fix Extreme- A fast-paced flow yoga class, combining strength, balance, flexibility, and power.
• Power Strength Extreme (Deluxe Kit Only)- Based on functional movement patterns, these nine total-body exercises will change the way the body moves, increasing strength, endurance, and power.
• ABC Extreme (Deluxe Kit Only)- A 30-minute workout that targets common problem areas by pushing abs, butt, and cardio to the extreme. It'll get that competition body ready for the stage.
• The Fix Challenge (Bonus DVD)- Keep things interesting and burn off calories with this quick resistance workout!

What Equipment is Required?

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT- Resistance band(s) or Weights (not included in Base kit)
RECCOMENDED EQUIPMENT -Yoga Mat or Beachbody Core Comfort Mat are helpful but not required.

What about the Nutrition?

Let's face it...this is probably a sore spot for many people...the 21 Day Fix allowed "cheats" like wine or chocolate.  However, this is an EXTREME program promised to give you EXTREME results if you commit to it ALL, nutrition and fitness!  So, in order to bring Extreme results, you need Extreme nutrition.  This is a 100% clean eating plan for the FULL 21 days!  There are options for you throughout the program (like eating out) however there are detailed guidelines.  Nutrition is KEY to your success!!!

You will also get the color-coded containers with your program!!!

So are YOU ready to be the FIRST to try the 

21 Day Fix Extreme?

It is YOUR turn to get EXTREME results...are you ready??  I will be hosting a 21 Day Fix EXTREME Test Group!  This will be a group designed to give you the support, accountability and motivation you need to propel you to reaching your extreme results!  You will not be at this alone, I will be there every step of the way for YOU to succeed!

Does this sound like something you would like to do?  If so, complete this application to be considered for a spot in my Exclusive Test Group!

Are you ready to go?  The 21 Day Fix Extreme is set to launch on February 2, 2015.  If you email me, I will give you all the details on the group and keep you up to date on all the information you need to know in order to get your copy ASAP!  What are you waiting for??  If you start NOW, then you will have plenty of time to reach your health and fitness goals before the start of Summer...think of it as your jumpstart to your bikini-wearing days!  Let me help you get in the best shape of your life!

LET'S DO THIS!

XOXO,

SJB

Independent Beachbody Coach

What's this PLUS ONE nonsense all about?

October 16th has always been a day I remember. Two days before my birthday. 2014 made it different.


Here is our story......

We've been married for over 3 years and have loved every single moment TOGETHER. I can not get enough of my husband. We knew we've always wanted to have kids when the time was right. Over the years we've gotten asked SO many times, "when are you having kids?", "you know your up next for kids", or my favorite from a coworker of mine that basically said I needed to start having kids because (at that time) I was turning 28.  I sat back and thought WOW I really am getting to "THAT" age where its time to start popping out kids or should've already been. Little did anyone know what was going on behind the smile that we wore when people asked us.

If you don't know me, my life revolves around a plan. I had this plan. I wanted my child's birthday in March. So what do I do next? I stopped my anxiety medication in mid February when I left a VERY STRESSFUL job. Next up, my lifeline to clear skin.....  my pills. I stopped taking my birth control in June and I would get pregnant RIGHT AWAY and have a baby due in MARCH. Why March?  It was the beginning of Spring, which I love, and no one else had a birthday. The weeks rolled by and nothing was happening. I began to get sad about it. I had so many thoughts wondering through my head, "what if were not able to get pregnant?" "we should've started sooner", "OMG, my age may be making a different." My husband would console me and tell me that it will happen we just have to give it time. Months rolled by. My stress would continue to fluctuate but would be able to control that on my own. No matter how hard I tried, I tried not to think about the family that we wanted so badly. There was a point in early September this wasn't the time and sure enough it wasn't. I came to a point where I was okay with not having my child born in March. Life throws us curve balls and somethings don't go as planned. This made me live a little more adventurous. This was happening for a reason. I texted my husband, "everything happens for a reason and we weren't dealt this if we were not able to handle it."  After many discussions with people and co workers, we finally decided it was time to call my Dr. to schedule a time to come in just to make sure everything is working right.

Wednesday, October 15th 2014.
Made the call I have been dreading to my Dr. "We are having a little problem with getting pregnant, it's just not working out for us." The nurse scheduled me to come into the office on Monday, October 20th at 1:10PM. Alright, now I have to figure out how I am going to get off work without letting my office know. At this point, not many people but our close family and a few friends know we are trying to get pregnant. Email sent to my boss and afternoon off was approved. GREAT. Never looked towards a Monday so bad before.

Thursday, October 16th 2014
My sister, brother-in-law, and my nephews came over so I could color my sister's hair. We had a huge discussion about why I shouldn't be running the half marathon on that coming Sunday (10/19/14) due to a knee injury I sustained late August. I was determined to do it. My sister's family left, sat with my husband watching the Cardinals game. Out of nowhere, I told my husband that I was going to take a test because this coming weekend would involve a lot of booze for my birthday.

9:47 PM: longest 3 minutes of my life......
Okay, there's one line and there is a second line that is lighter. No, no. I was so use to the single line coming up in previous tests. I pulled out the directions and read under the pregnant description, " second line may appear lighter." Holy shit I am PREGNANT. I call my husband to come to the bathroom and check this out. No Way. "OMG, I need to call my mom." After us sitting there in awe I told my husband I needed another test and I would take tomorrow morning. He left for the store and I went to shower. Still in shock that there were 2 lines. My husband came back and insisted on me taking the test that night and told him I would take it the next morning.

Friday, October 17th 5am....
Test says, "YES +." Un freaking believable. I woke up my husband. I couldn't believe it. I sat at my desk all morning before work just in complete shock. I called my Dr. on the way to work and sure enough "Congratulations, your about 4 weeks." Soooo that's why my stomach was hurting and that's why I've been so exhausted. Holy smokes I AM PREGNANT. I took my lunch break and searched EXPECTING for 30 minutes straight and everything I found, I relayed to my husband. We were in zombie mode. We could not believe it.

Did I mention that we had planned a whole birthday weekend for me filled with dinners & a trip to the winery?

My nerves were going crazy, we had to somehow not let anyone know that we were expecting. Throughout the afternoon, we tried to go through every single thing we could think of and ultimately, we told my family at dinner and went to my in laws and told them as well. Both families could not be more excited for us.

Nerves calmed.

Needless to say, we made it through the weekend and lips were sealed. It still hasn't hit us yet. We go on November 17th for our first dr appointment and our first ultrasound. I think once we seen our little bean on the screen, it will all become real.

We are so excited to share our journey with you. These next 9 months can not go soon enough.

XOXO,
SJB
Independent Beachbody Coach.


Week 5
Monday, October 27th.

It's still so surreal for us. We are counting down the days until we go to the dr. to see our little one. I am loving this time right now when NO ONE knows but our families & my husband's boss. Such a beautiful and private time that I will cherish.

How am I feeling?
I am feeling pretty good. Earlier last week I was exhausted so we watched more t.v. then normal after work and caught up on some much needed sleep. I have had a bit of cramping but according to what  I have read on apps that I have downloaded, seems normal. I have been in contact with my Dr. earlier last week regarding basic nutrition questions. Guess who gets to keep drinking her SHAKEOLOGY?!?!?!  One healthy baby on the way.

ONE HAPPY MOMMA TO BE!

XOXO,

SJB


 Week 6-9 & first doctor appointment   
Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Well, the full effects of feeling fatigued, "morning sickness", and indigestion has fully set in. I just
started feeling normal again on Monday. Instead of "morning sickness" it should be called "longest hangover ever feeling". I would be fine in the morning and throughout the day, but the second I showered and went to bed it was almost instant. Slept sitting up for a couple days due to the horrible indigestions which then would make me feel more sick then I already was.

I knew that you would be exhausted and sleep a lot in the first trimester, but holy smokes, I didn't think going to bed at 8PM and sleeping 10 hours would be that. It was the same routine every night for about 3 weeks: come home, eat dinner, shower, bed. My poor husband was left to hang out a lot but he has been the biggest trooper with getting things I need or rubbing my back to make me feel better.

 Back to working out on a regular basis after I took last week off to sleep. The cravings have been so strange. All I have been wanting is cereal. I haven't had cereal in a year! Today was Lion's Choice & tacos. I have been doing well throughout the day with my snacks and breakfast. Shakeology here and there.

I am learning when to limit my body and when I am full. This is a whole new experience that my husband and I are going through together and learning so much. I am learning about my body, more then I would ever of thought.

Here we are with 9 full weeks under our belt and we are more excited then ever.

First doctor's appointment:

First family picture

Ahhh we made it through it. It was on Monday, November 17th. The day we have been waiting for, for a month and to finally feel that this dream is REAL. We were nervous, but super excited. We had no idea what to expect. We got the ultrasound done first. There is a BABY there. my heart just flutters  saying that. The heart beat is strong at 170. Everything is looking good according to the ultrasound tech and when my doctor looked over the results as well.
Blood work was also done. Got those results back today and everything is look GOOD!

Bump pictures will be coming soon as well. Starting those this week.

I don't ever want to wake up from the dream we are finally living. Such a beautiful thing.

For now friends.

XOXO,
SJB

Stuffed Zucchini

I always like to seek out new recipes on Pinterest and found this one. As you know, i really DISLIKE trying new things but this is a KEEPER!! 

 

INGREDIENTS:

•3 tsp olive oil, divided

•1 clove garlic, diced

•1 small yellow onion, diced

•8 oz mushrooms, diced

•1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

•3 tbsp whole-wheat bread crumbs

•2 tbsp Parmesan cheese

•2 zucchini, halved, seeds and pulp removed (I did use some of the pulp to mix in with the other vegetables)

•1 Red, Yellow, or Green Bell pepper (I used a combination of all three!)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.Preheat oven to 350°F.

2.Prepare stuffing: In a large pan on medium-high, heat 1 tsp oil. Add garlic, peppers, onion and mushrooms. Sauté until vegetables soften, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add remaining 2 tsp oil, vinegar, bread crumbs and Parmesan. Mix thoroughly.

3.Spoon an equal amount of stuffing into each zucchini half. Bake on a foil-lined cookie sheet for 15 minutes.

XOXO,
SJB
Independent Beachbody Coach

Family Vacation: how healthy was I?

Ahhhhh it’s so nice to get back to the groove of things after being gone for a bit. We went on out annual family vacation to Gulf Shores, AL. We had a blast. Family of sting rays were in the ocean the first couple of days, did some outlet shopping, my nephews came home with new pet crabs. Ate at our normal places but also tried some new ones as well. I am not a seafood eater, so kept it to wraps & grilled chicken mostly.

My goal vacation week was to continue my workout plan and keep up with healthy eating.

My workouts did not go as planned. Our condo was too small and I was super distracted when I tried to do them. So I scratched those this week and took many walks on the beach and outside the planation. My husband and I tried to average 4 miles a day.

Oh my goodness would I love to go back and change my eating this past week. My body is making it loud & clear that it didn’t like anything I ingested. I was off to a good start and then picked a few fries off others plates & the daiquiris didn’t help either. I just didn’t have the discipline this trip as I do at home because all the extra candy & snacks are not available. When I treated myself, I kept telling myself that I am on vacation & I earned it. On another, I will be in Vegas in 2 weeks for a Beachbody conference.

SO,  the 3 Day Shakeology Cleanse is on.

XOXO,

SJB
Independent Beachbody Coach