Delicious Recipes

Making Smoothies Even Easier

Making Smoothies Even Easier | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Photo from PopSugar

While recently out with one of my friends, we were discussing the pros and cons of healthy eating.  While I love the way eating right makes me feel, I said that one of the things I don’t like about eating healthy is all the chewing involved.  Some times I just want to get the nutrition without having to graze on the veggies all day long.

One of the things that I love about using smoothies as a way of getting in all my veggies is that  you can throw all kinds of great things in there from kale and spinach or beans and chia seeds.  It is a great way to get in all the fiber, protein, and healhty fats you need for the day.  And with a bit of prep work smoothies can be so fast to make!  Put it into a portable cup and you’ve got a quick healthy meal on the go.

Making Smoothies Even Easier | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Blueberries are one of my favorite things to add to my smoothies!

All you need is 20 minutes of prep time once a week, and instead of 5 to 10 minutes to make a smoothie each morning, all you’ll need is about 60 seconds! Smoothie freezer packs are also such a great way to use up fruit that’s almost too ripe to eat.  (I love to wait to use my bananas until they are super ripe and sweet!)

These packs are made with just five ingredients: kale, bananas, blueberries, mango, and avocado. They add up to 243 calories, which means that you can add any extra ingredients like protein powder or almond milk. Of course, you can always make your own creative combinations as well.  I personally love to make smoothies with strawberries, pineapple,  peaches, cucumbers, and carrots.

5 Days of Smoothie Freezer Packs

INGREDIENTS

10 cups spinach or baby kale (or a mixture of both)
2 1/2 bananas
2 1/2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
2 1/2 cups mango (I used frozen)
1 1/4 ripe avocados

NUTRITION

Calories per serving 243

DIRECTIONS

  1. Grab five freezer-safe sealable plastic bags and divide the ingredients between them. Add: 2 cups of greens, 1/2 a banana (sliced), 1/4 cup blueberries, 1/4 cupmango, and 1/4 avocado.
  2. Close them up and feel free to write any notes on the bag such as the date or ingredients you want to add later, then place them in the freezer.
  3. When you’re ready to make your smoothie, empty the contents of the freezer pack into your blender, add the extra ingredients like water or coconut water, almond or soy milk, protein powder, flaxmeal, chia seeds, cinnamon, beans, tofu, or whatever you please. Blend it up and enjoy!

Source: Calorie Count

Here’s the calorie breakdown of other smoothie ingredients you might want to add to your blender:

1 cup unsweetened soy milk: 80 calories
1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk: 40 calories
1 cup coconut water: 43 calories
1 serving (about 35 grams) vanilla protein powder: 110 calories
1/2 cup nonfat vanilla Greek yogurt: 83 calories
1/2 cup vanilla soy yogurt: 105 calories
1/2 cup coconut milk yogurt: 90 calories
1/2 tablespoon chia seeds: 30 calories
1 tablespoon flaxmeal: 40 calories
1 serving soft tofu (1/5 package): 60 calories
1/4 cup cannellini beans: 50 calories
1 tablespoon almond butter: 95 calories

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Beauty Subscription · Make up

But… I Really Do Like To Buy More and More New Makeup!

Well, as I have recently mentioned, I have really been trying not to buy new makeup…easier said than done! I really like to browse the makeup aisles! I love to look at all the new things!  I love to get great deals on makeup!  I love to buy all the makeup!  

Unfortunately, I don’t have a ton of space to store all the many beauty products that I buy. I have so many makeup products that I have used one or two times and completely forgotten about.  I also have so many awesome products that I don’t give enough love to.  I have decided that I am going to be going on a strict No Buy!  I will be shopping but it will be in my own stash.  Hopefully along the way I will discover some new loves and rediscover some old goodies!

But... I Really Do Like To Buy More and More New Makeup! | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
I can hear all the beautiful things calling out my name!

Here are my self imposed rules to my No Buy…

  1. I can repurchase a product if I run out of a holy grail product that I always use on a daily basis. (ie my Maybelline Volum’ Express The Colossal  Mascara is running low and I know I am going to have to buy another one soon.)
  2. I can purchase/repurchase hair care and skin care items as they run out and need to be replaced.
  3. Ipsy and Walmart Beauty Subscriptions are not included since they are automatic subscriptions.
  4. Although, Target Beauty Boxes are going to be included in this self imposed No Buy.  I have so many stacked up filled with product samples that I have never used.
  5. When I feel as if I want to buy something new I need to first stop and ask myself “Do I already own something very similar to this product?”
  6. I need to try out and use up products and samples that I already own.
  7. Chapstick/lip balm is a major necessity, so if I see a new one that I really want to try, I can get it…Never mind, that totally goes agains the point of what I am trying to do.  No new chapsticks/lip balms.  I definitely have enough already!

What about you?  How do you decided when to cut back on your spending?  Do you have a monthly makeup budget?  If so how much do you usually spend?

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Delicious Recipes

Healthier Energy Bites

Why Reese’s Easter PB eggs do you have to be so temptingly delicious?! The holiday edition of Reese’s peanut butter cups tastes even more awesome than the already awesome regular Pb cups.

Why Reese's Easter pb eggs do you have to be so temptingly delicious?! The holiday edition of Reese's pdcups tastes even more awesome than the already awesome Pb cups. | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

So while I really want to be eating Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, instead I will be good and snack on some of this healthier option of an Energy bite.

I find that just one or two of these little bites will be just enough to fill me up and stave off unwanted afternoon snacking.

Healthier Energy Bites | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cup oats  (dry)
  • 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (I love crunchy, but smooth is fine of course too.)
  • 1/4 cup almond butter (if you don’t have any almond butter just use 1/2 cup of peanut butter.)
  • 4 Tbsp honey (use local raw honey for an added immune boost.)
  • 4 Tbsp mini chocolate chips
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extractAdditional ingredients for added flavor and nutrition…
  • 1 Tbs chia seeds
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 scoop vanilla flavored protein powder of your choice.

DIRECTIONS

  1. Mix all ingredients in a large mixing bowl using a spatula
  2. Place mixing bowl in refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour
  3. Roll mixture into equal size bites (I use my 2 tsp scoop to make them all uniform)
  4. Store in refrigerator until ready to eat

Healthier Energy Bites | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comMakes 8 servings, Each serving is quite a few of the 2 teaspoon sized balls.  You won’t be able to eat too many without feeling sick to your stomach, so the chances of eating an entire serving is not likely.
Macros (per serving): If the above recipe is followed without the additional ingredients…

  • Calories – 338
  • Protein – 10 g
  • Carbs – 37 g
  • Fat – 18 g

Let me know if you make them and how you like them!

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Flab to FAB · Health/ Fitness

Fab to Flab…

Today has not been a good nutrition day for me.  To be honest, recently I have not been eating as healthy as I should be.  I let the holiday candies get me very time!  Easter candy is especially a major weakness for me! I have also let afternoon snacking sneak back in, and that has always been a major downfall for me!

Cadbury Mini Eggs candies Cheesecake Dip | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

While I am no longer actively trying to lose weight, I still need to eat the right way not only in order to keep all the weight off, but also, more importantly,  in order to be healthy!  Since I have been on maintenance I have not gained any weight, but I easily could if I continue to eat poorly and allow myself to snack.

I have not been as strict about keeping a food journal.  I have to admit, journaling really keeps me accountable for what I eat which keeps me on track!   So, I have decided that I am going to have to have to start food journaling again.  It is tedious and time consuming, but it is so effective!

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Review · Weekly Product Highlight

Colgate Optic White Express White Toothpaste

~Weekly Product Highlight~Colgate Optic White Express White Toothpaste~

Colgate Optic White Express White Toothpaste | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

I have VERY sensitive teeth.  I cannot bite into an apple that is cold right out of the fridge, I cannot drink a glass of ice cold liquid without using a straw.  I cannot even think about doing either of those things without my teeth hurting.  So, when it comes to teeth whitening, my vanity does have its limits!!!  Of course I want to have white teeth, but at what price?!  I have tried all kinds of “teeth whiteners for sensitive teeth” and most have left me in serious pain!  I think that overall I have a somewhat high pain tolerance, but when it comes to the pain of sensitive teeth, NOPE, I am a huge baby!

Colgate Optic White Express White Toothpaste | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comAll that being said, I received my first tube of Colgate Optic White Express White Toothpaste in a Target Beauty box a few months ago.  My teeth are so sensitive that I can usually tell after the first use of a whitening product if it is going to make my teeth hurt.  This product claims to be ” formulated to be used daily and is enamel-safe. When used as directed, Colgate Optic White has not been shown to increase sensitivity in consumers”  It also claims to give a noticeably whiter smile within 3 days (*best results seen after 4 weeks)  So with all those claims, I figured that I would give it a try.

Did this tooth paste make my teeth hurt

Nope! When I first started using it I didn’t have any noticeable increase in my teeth’s sensitivity.  What I did notice though was when I flossed my teeth every day gums were a tiny bit tender, nothing too bad nor painful, but something that I was aware of.  Also, my lips have been a bit drier while I have been using this tooth paste.  I must also mention that I use this in combination with ACT Restoring Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash in Cool Mint.  (I have been using ACT for years and it really does help with my teeth’s sensitivity.)

Day One and Day three. Colgate Optic White Toothpaste | lookingjoligood.worpress.com

Did I have noticeably whiter teeth in 3 days…Yes!  When used consistently twice a day, I did notice that my teeth looked whiter /brighter after using this toothpaste for 3 days in a row. But… to be honest, I also had a dental appointment to get my teeth cleaned on day 3, so I don’t know if it was all the toothpaste or a combination of the two.

After those initial 3 days, I have since used the entire sample 0.75 oz size tube, as well as an entire tube in the 3 oz size and have started a new tube.  Now that I have consistently used this toothpaste my teeth are definitely whiter and brighter.  I am hooked!

Day One and Day three. Colgate Optic White Toothpaste | lookingjoligood.worpress.com
Not the most flattering of pictures.  But here is an idea of what my teeth looked like before using the Colgate Optic White Express White Toothpaste and after using it for 3 days.

Were my teeth super yellow to start off with? No. Are my teeth super duper brighten up the entire room white after using this? No, but are they whiter and brighter than they were when I started, yes!

I have recommended this toothpaste to both my sister and my sister in law and they are both loving it as well! I love sharing products I love with people I love!

What does the Colgate Website have to say about this product…

Dazzle Without the Hassle

Express White is Colgate’s fastest teeth whitening toothpaste ever.

  • Breakthrough formula offers whiter teeth in 3 days* just by brushing.
  • Professionally recommended whitening ingredient, hydrogen peroxide.
  • Contains 2x the whitening ingredient.**
  • Safe for daily use. Protects enamel and provides anti-cavity fluoride protection.
  • *For best results, use as directed for 4 weeks. **Vs Optic White® Sparkling Mint®.

“When used as directed, best results are achieved in 4 weeks, but to keep your white smile, continue to use. In addition to providing whitening results, Optic White® provides all of the benefits of standard fluoride toothpaste and can be used daily.
When using the entire Optic White® collection together, when should I use the Mouthwash? Before or after the whitening gel?  Use mouthwash prior to the Optic White® Whitening Pen. To get the desired results, the gel should be the last item you use after brushing your teeth.

I haven’t tried out any of the other optic white products, but I am interested to see if they work out as well too. If you are interested in trying out this toothpaste or any of the other Optic White products HERE is a link to a $0.75 off coupon, http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/special-offers.  You know how much I love to save money!

What about you?  Have you tried out the Colgate Optic White Toothpaste?  What did you think?  How were your results?  Have you tried any of the other products in the Optic White line?  I’d love to hear about it!

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Flab to FAB · Health/ Fitness

Exercise Results

How long does it take to see results with exercise?

Sometimes it feels as if you are working so hard and not seeing results!  You may start asking yourself “When am I going to start seeing results for all the hard work that I have been doing?!”

Even though the diet marketing people want to make us think that we can quickly lose 15-20 lbs in a week by using their products, it isn’t really likely or that easy.  Also, in the small chance that the product does work, it isn’t likely that the weight loss will stick around and be permanent.

Exercise Results | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Try this, instead of only gauging your progress by what the scale says, think beyond just weight based result. You may find that you are being consistent and working so hard, but don’t have results on the scale. Don’t just look at the number on the scale. Maybe your strength  and endurance have improved, you notice that your body is changing and you are feeling better and healthier and you feel happier and better all around.

So, how long does it take to see results with exercise?  Remember even though you may already feel the results of a healthy lifestyle change right away, it can take between 4-6 week to see results when first starting a new workout routine. 

Like I said in last weeks post about Muscle and Fat, focus on fat loss and how you feel, not just the number on the scale.  When you feel good you can’t help but look good too!

 

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Beauty Subscription · Make up

Walmart Beauty Box Spring 2016

Did you know that Walmart has it’s own a subscription beauty box?  Yup, they do!  It is a quarterly box and only costs $5 a season.  Walmart technically calls it a “sample box” and says that the box itself is free and the $5 is a flat rate for shipping and handling.  Either way the box costs $5 each season.

Walmart Spring Beauty Box | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Generally the box will have around 5 samples, with 1 or 2 of them being full sized products.  Also in your Walmart Beauty Box, they send 2 or 3 smaller sample beauty products and coupons.

How does it work?

  • You sign up at https://beautybox.walmart.com/
  • Create and account
  • Add your payment and shipping info
  • Wait for you confirmation email
  • Enjoy your beauty box when it arrives

If you are first time subscribers: Your subscription will be processed when you sign up and your credit card will be charged $5 and you will receive the current season’s box.  Once you are subscribed, you won’t have to resign up, you will receive a shipping confirmation email and then your box will arrive.  You’ll only be charged when your Beauty Box is shipped.

The Walmart beauty box website says “Each seasonal Beauty Box is a “limited edition” and may sell out.  Note: Beauty products vary by box.  Only one beauty box per email address.”

Here in the picture below is what I got in this seasons box.

Walmart Spring Beauty Box | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Spoiler alert: I had already been working on a post about the Optic White Colgate toothpaste.  I’m not going to tell you what I think, you’ll just have to wait and see.

This Neutrogena Moisture Smooth Color Stick is quite nice!  The color is great, the consistency is great.  It has a bit of a sweet scent to it, but overall it doesn’t bother me and I am very sensitive to scents.  I have been enjoying using the Curel Rough Skin Rescue lotion.  It is thick but not too greasy.  I don’t really like the scent of the Dove body wash, which is too bad because I really like Dove body wash.  I may have to pass this one along to someone else.  I also love the concept of the Jergens wet skin moisturizer, but the floral scent is just too strong for me.  I think that I am going to pass it along as well.

Over all I think that this was a great box!  For $5 I find that this Walmart beauty box is generally a great deal!  How about you, do you get the Walmart Beauty box?  Did you get the same samples in you box? What do you think?

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Beauty Subscription · Make up

Target April Beauty Box ($26 Value)

As I posted the other day Target has been offering their own version of a beauty box.  These boxes are usually awesome!  This one has 8 items in it and costs $7.  The box is now available! They always sell out quickly, so you have to order it fast!  I just ordered mine.  If you want one too click HERE.  Shipping is free and if you use your RedCard you can also get the usual 5% discount.

Target April Beauty Box ($26 Value) | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

“details

Freshen up your look for spring with the Target Beauty Box. A $26 value for just $7, this handpicked collection of beauty products includes a few of our latest beauty faves. Test them out and tell us what you think. If you love them as much as we do, find the full-size versions at Target.com/beautybox.

CeraVe Healing Ointment
This healing ointment combines ceramides with a gentle, lanolin-free formula and a lightweight, non-greasy feel to protect and soothe dry, cracked and chafed skin.

Maybelline Dream Velvet Foundation – Ivory
New from Maybelline NY, Dream Velvet foundation is the first gel-whipped foundation formula, delivering a flawless 100% velvet-smooth finish.

Laneige Water Bank Soothing Mask
Infused with hydro-ionized mineral water, this unique hydrogel sheet mask provides intense moisture to soothe and cool your skin instantly.

CoverGirl Colorlicous Lipstick
This luxuriously rich lipstick is infused with shea butter for lasting color.

Marlowe. No 022 Body Butter
This ultra-rich body butter is made with a highly moisturizing formula of antioxidants and extracts that nourish, smooth and revitalize skin.

Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes
Perfect for when you’re on the go, these facial wipes remove makeup, even waterproof mascara, and cleanse your skin.

Pantene AIRspray Hairspray (Level 2 Flexible Hold)
This non-sticky and ultra-lightweight hairspray delivers a smooth finish that leaves your hair feeling moisturized and silky soft for healthy body and bounce.

Hawaiian Tropic SPF 30 Island Sport Lotion
This water- and sweat-resistant sunscreen offers fast-absorbing moisture to replenish the skin, a light tropical scent and an oil-free, ultra-lightweight formula to keep skin looking and feeling beautiful.

  • Number of Pieces: 8″

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Beauty Subscription · Lifestyle

Coming Soon! Target Beauty Box April 2016!

Target has just posted the items for their upcoming April 2016 Beauty Box!

The new boxes are NOT on sale yet, so this page currently says “Sold Out.”  Don’t worry, you haven’t missed it yet!

The launch date of this beauty box hasn’t been announced yet, but I have a feeling that it will probably be on Monday, since that seems to be when they usually go live.

Here are the items that will be featured in the new Target Beauty Box:

 

Coming Soon! Target Beauty Box April 2016! | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

What do you think of the products in this months box? Will you be trying to get this moths box?  I haven’t gotten the last few Target Boxes, but I think that this one looks pretty good!  I love Pantene and CeraVe and Laneige.  Surprisingly, I don’t own any CoverGirl lipsticks, so hopefully it is a good color.

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