Wellness

Dessert – Chocolate Chip Brioche Bread Pudding Whipped Cream & Berries

Jul 18, 2017

*this post contains an affiliate link and I will receive a commission if you click and purchase*

*items received free of charge for review and recipe purposes only. All opinions shared are my own*

Dessert Chocolate Brioche Bread Pudding

For a quick dessert, I whipped together ingredients on hand for my first bread pudding. This was perfect for a July 4th dessert. I received Brioche Bread with chocolate chips from St.Pierre Bakery and was up for the challenge of finding ways to eat every morsel of the bread shipped to me.

Bread is my number one guilty pleasure and then you serve any type of French bread and I can’t resist the temptation. I know I have gained a few pounds in a couple of days.

The chocolate chip brioche bread is filled with layers and layers of buttery sweetness in every bite. The chocolate chips add another level of sweetness for a perfect bread pudding. Bread pudding is even better with homemade whipped cream and fresh berries! I did add cinnamon and nutmeg for added spice to the milk before I blended with the eggs.

recipe credit: NY Times

The remaining recipe found here

INGREDIENTS

2 cups milk
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter, more for greasing pan
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅓ cup sugar
Pinch salt
½ loaf sweet egg bread like challah or brioche, cut into 2-inch cubes (about 5 to 6 cups)
2 eggs, beaten

PREPARATION

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm milk, butter, vanilla, sugar, and salt. Continue cooking just until butter melts; cool. Meanwhile, butter a 4-to-6-cup baking dish and fill it with cubed bread.

My Quick Recipe for Whipped Cream (chill bowl and mixer beaters in freezer a few minutes before making)

1/4 cup heavy whipping cream

1 tsp of ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp of vanilla flavor

1/4 cup of sugar

Fresh berries

Add all ingredients to the bowl, start mixing on low and gradually increase speed as you tilt the bowl and peaks begin to form.

Staying Fit Equals Eating Right, a Workout Regimen and Being Hydrated

Jul 10, 2017

Staying Fit

Staying Fit means eating right, a workout regiment and staying hydrated. A few weeks ago I participated in a 7-day challenge with a Team Beachbody coach. Since I started working out I have never worked out for 7 days. My workout regimen at best is a minimum of 3 days and maximum 4 days. All of my workouts are at home, which made trying out Beachbody ideal. My initial thoughts were whether I could maintain a schedule of consistency to workout for 7 days.

Eating Right

What does it mean to eat right? In 7 days, I eliminated junk food such no fast food, chips, refined flour products, sugary snacks, sugary beverages, and coffee creamer. I substituted healthier snacks such as natural almonds(100 calorie pack), mixed fresh fruit, LunaBars, whole wheat crackers, Greek yogurt, and cheese.

Meal Prep

The only way for me to maintain my eating habits was to meal prep. When I grocery shopped I mapped out which meals I wanted to have for 7 days. I committed to eating only chicken breast and fish with fresh veggies and brown rice. Also, I packed my lunch each day which helped me to stay on track during the work day. In order to keep the meals tasty, I purchased olive oil and Mrs. Dash to eliminate increasing the sodium content of my food.

What I Learned About Eating Right and Meal Planning

My grocery bill was a lot higher than usual
Meals plans found online are extremely time-consuming in terms of shopping for ingredients that are not on your shelf. This adds more time and more costs to grocery shopping.
I stuck to proteins I like i.e. boneless chicken breast and cod. Adding fibrous vegetables(zucchini and squash) and a whole grain side dish (used brown rice).
I must have food with flavor, in addition to using olive oil and Mrs. Dash, I realized the food was missing a bit of flavor. Next time, I will definitely add some fresh herbs, garlic, and other flavors to keep the flavorful.
Fresh fruit is such a good snack and it keeps me full.
Drinking 64 oz of water each day was not difficult as long as I finished one bottle as soon as I woke up. The remaining bottles consisted of 2 at work and the last bottle during my workout. Water also kept me with a full stomach and not craving sugar.
Eliminating coffee and substituting with green tea and honey. I am used to drinking 120z of coffee with creamer every morning and I have to say it was not missed.
The time to plan and prep has to become a weekly ritual.

Workout Regimen

I no longer have a gym membership and as much as I am saving money it is difficult to maintain consistency each week. The 7 day Shaun T Week was a free trial and one of the main reasons I wanted to try it. For 7 days I did a workout that ranged in time from 27 mins to 37 minutes. Each of the workouts was intense with nonstop cardio and the results felt great. In 7 days, my endurance was up and I could feel lost inches around my waist. I will admit carving out time to get the workout in at the end of my workday was a struggle. In addition, to the workout, I was in a group which helped with motivating me each day. For a newbie, each of the workouts had modifications.

What I Learned From a 7 Day Challenge

Committing to working out for 7 days is tough
Working out after work is doable, however, waking early is far better. I learned this on day 6, which was the weekend.
Getting more rest so you have the energy to get the workout in every day
Motivation from like-minded people helps tremendously
Accountability is everything
Participating in fitness challenges breaks my consistency
The verdict is out on the expense of an online workout

Being Hydrated

During the challenge, my coach suggested 64ounces of water each day. I also read your water consumption should be 1/2 of your body weight in ounces. 64 ounces was in line with my body weight. The easiest way for me to get in 64 ounces each day was to wake and have a bottle. Next, I would finish 2 bottles at work and one remaining when I got home.

Where am I Now?

I am three weeks post Team Beachbody challenge and finding it extremely difficult to get back on board. Two weeks have passed since my last workout. My new summer schedule has me indulging in sweets and I know my trigger is stress. Whenever my schedule deviates I feel overwhelmed and the way to compensate is to eat something I enjoy that is loaded with sugar. I am going to order some resistance bands to switch up my workout regimen again.

My Stay Fit Wish List

Weekly Trainer
Chef to provide weekly meals
Workout partner
RESULTS!!!!!

If staying fit is a challenge for you, how do you maintain consistency? do you meal prep? do you workout at a gym or at home?

*this post contains an affiliate link and I will receive a commission if you click and purchase*

Eco -Friendly Products for Laundry and Hand Washing from EnviroKlenz

Jul 3, 2017

*the products were received free of charge for review purposes only. All opinions shared are my own.

Eco-Friendly products are a great addition to our home with two kids who have eczema and it typically flares up when skin is exposed to certain chemicals. Cleaning our living space is quite a task especially when it comes to choosing the right products. I constantly search for effective products with no chemicals. The reason for our fragrance-free and odor-free laundry products. Both kids were diagnosed with asthma which includes patches of eczema. I found their skin is sensitive to certain fabrics and chemicals. In our current building we have shared laundry rooms and on occasion, I use the local laundromat. The one thing that I dislike the most with shared washing machines is the odor left after washing between loads. My method is to wipe down the washing machine with disinfectant wipes or to spray a disinfecting spray inside before I started washing. The downside is exposure to chemicals on wipes.

EnviroKleenz sent the Laundry Enhancer to review. I was excited when I read how eco- friendly the product is for use with laundry. The product is mineral based which is a plus for chemical sensitivity. It is also toxic free and fragrance-free. Another benefit of the product is it eliminates odors from the laundry as well as the washing machine. The product pairs with regular laundry detergent and is safe to use on a variety of fabrics. Our machines are top loading and I found it was very effective.

It is recommended to use the product for a warm water cycle, add laundry detergent and then add the laundry enhancer. The amount of laundry enhancer is dependent on the size of the of the load, 1/4 cup of laundry enhancer for small loads or 1/2 cup for medium loads. Once the machine is filled, add laundry.

Eco-Friendly Hand Soap

One of my pet peeves of cooking is handling raw poultry or seafood and the odor it leaves behind on my hands. Typically, I wash my hands with an anti-bacterial soap. The EnviroKlenz hand soap is fragrance-free so I could not wait to try the product. A little bit goes a long way, after rubbing on my hands, I added a little water to lather and then I rinsed. There was no trace of the poultry on my hands, it neutralizes the odor without adding any fragrance to your skin. This is definitely a staple to have on hand in the kitchen for all cooks.

If you are looking for eco-friendly products that are toxic-free for chemical sensitivity and odor elimination from EnviroKlenz(this post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a commission if you click and purchase):

Laundry

EnviroKlenz liquid laundry enhancer for removing chemical odors, toxic vapors and stubborn odors

Hand Soap

Non-toxic, Fragrance-free hand soap for the chemically sensitive

Carpet and Upholstery Odor Eliminator

Naturally remove stubborn odors and fragrances from carpet and upholstery

Odor Eliminator for Shoes

Remove shoe odors naturally and effectively

Pet Urine Eliminator
Remove pet urine odors from carpets and other surfaces

The Healthy Kitchen: 35 Best Foods to Stock in Your Fridge and Pantry

Jun 28, 2017

Today was my grocery shopping day and in addition to our normal staples, I tried to incorporate some additional items so the kids can still enjoy their snacks without a lot of the normal sugary choices. I found myself buying string cheese, peanut butter, pretzel sticks, cheese cubes, whole wheat tortillas, crackers, yogurt, oatmeal, 100 calorie bags of microwavable popcorn, unsweetened applesauce, apple & eve juice(no sugar added), frozen strawberries. If I do give them regular juice like OJ or apple juice I dilute with water.

I normally pack lunches and although the male child prefers to take PB&J every day, I try to switch it up a bit by using whole wheat bread, tortillas or even waffles. In the past week, I received some really great ideas on snacks from my readers so I tried to incorporate a lot of those suggestions on my grocery list. The kids love yogurt and I never thought about adding frozen fruit to a smoothie. I know they are now fans of apple slices with peanut butter. The one thing I like about using tortillas for sandwiches is I can hide lettuce and tomato and my little man is none the wiser. He enjoys the sandwich so much and totally forgets about eating vegetables. I am committed to providing the best possible menu in spite of their picky eating habits.

In terms of the other snacks, I put those in an undisclosed location to control their desire to snack around the clock. I feel good about taking on this challenge and know the kids will definitely benefit in the long run.

I read great food items to have on hand in the fridge, pantry, and freezer. You may find this helpful as well.

The Healthy Kitchen: 35 Best Foods to Stock in Your Fridge and Pantry

Healthcare Resources for Asthma and What You Need to Know

Jun 26, 2017

Asthma

Healthcare resources are available to properly manage asthma but educating yourself is critical for proper treatment. My daughter was diagnosed with asthma shortly after her first birthday. Initially, I relied on her pediatrician to treat the condition and then we were referred to an allergist. The allergist did a thorough assessment of potential triggers. She was tested for environmental allergens with no positives, however, she is allergic to dogs, cats, and mice. No household pets for us unless the dog is hypo-allergenic. After years of different regimens, I finally feel we have her asthma under control. In 2014, she was hospitalized with an asthma flare up, which was triggered by a virus at the start of the school year. Her doctor’s office was very diligent in recommending we go to the ER and it was just in time. Her asthma flare up was major, she developed pneumonia as well. This was a weekend long stay in the hospital with around the clock medication until her breathing and lungs were back to normal. Our last flare up was last June, which only required a one night stay in the hospital.

Her condition has taught me to take asthma seriously. Once the doctor gives an action plan asthma follow it to the letter. Also, try to eliminate triggers as much as possible in the living space. My daughter requires a daily inhaler twice a day. Her rescue inhaler is used on an as needed basis and allergy medication every night. Changes in the air quality from season to season requires a nighttime allergy medicine. In order to get asthma under control, I have to follow her action plan and know when she is not feeling 100%. Another key factor for managing her asthma, is to learn what are triggers, monitor what is different with breathing, mood, and level of energy. My daughter’s asthma is usually triggered by a cold. Hence, the reason I am consistently reminding her to wash hands.

We are fortunate to have a nurse on site at school every day, so she is able to keep her rescue inhaler at school with a trained healthcare professional. She also carries an extra one in her backpack for afterschool hours.

In the past few days here the temperatures were sweltering and this brings high humidity. The air quality was not ideal for anyone with a respiratory condition. I was clear with school staff on allowing her to stay in during recess as well as her aftercare. Unfortunately, I think there is a lot of lack of understanding of the severity of asthma especially when the air quality is non-existent. I have to stress it is not the level of exertion that is of concern but the for a child with asthma the body has to work so much hard to breath when the air quality is low.

The best way to assist a child with asthma is to educate yourself on the condition. I know for my own daughter having her medicine at school and home is critical. Also having an action plan from a health care professional is another excellent way to managing asthma. Check your prescription plan deductible. Prescriptions by Mail offer a 90 day supply of inhalers. This is a way to save on the monthly charge for an inhaler. In CVS, the cashier told me to go to the inhaler website to print a coupon. The coupon saved me about 12% off of my copay. If possible, try to find ways to save on the medication. Our pediatrician also suggested shopping around for the medication at different pharmacies as prices fluctuate on medications from pharmacy to pharmacy.

The American Lung Association provided some valuable information on the condition and how to obtain resources for schools to provide training for staff in the event a child is in need of immediate care.

Online module to learn more about asthma

Report on access to asthma medications in school

*this ad contains an affiliate link, which means I receive a commission if you click and purchase*

Calorie Burning with TNT Pro Series Waist Trimmer and Slimmer Kit

Jun 25, 2017

*post includes an affiliate link which means I will receive commission if you click and purchase*

Calorie Burned with Waist Trimmer Belt

CalorieHow to burn a calorie? It is very effective with a combination of different activities during a workout. I am a firm believer in a consistent fitness regimen and eating properly as the key to staying fit and strong. There was an opportunity to test the TNT Pro Series products so I decided to order the waist trimmer belt as well as the arm and leg slimmer kit.

My workout consists of using my TRX and Real Fit with Amy’s circuit training workout via YouTube. The belt can be worn directly on skin or over your workout top. I ordered a size small and it is more than enough room to wrap with the velcro comfortably. My belt is worn under my workout top during either workout. After each workout, I remove it and can feel the sweat rolling off of my skin. Some of the things I like about this brand vs. another brand I tried is the secure fit, it does not slip while I am in motion, the size small is enough to cover my entire stomach area, it is comfortable to use while doing household chores. I would suggest wiping down after each use.

Calorie Burning with Upper Arm and Leg Slimmer Kit

My arms are starting to take on more form and tone due to consistent biceps and triceps exercises. Circuit training and my TRX workout are excellent for building strong arms. The arm slimmer is too loose for my arms which are small and muscular. My arms are one of my areas I want to increase muscle mass so I think the arm slimmer would defeat that purpose. For someone who is starting to focus on arms, this compression wrap is ideal to get burn calories on arms. I like the muscular tone of my thighs and will definitely try the thigh compression wraps especially if they are great for anti-cellulite. The size small is a perfect fit for my thighs.

You can purchase any of the products at TNT Pro Series.

*All three items were received free from TNT Pro Series for review purposes only. All opinions shared are my own.

Positive HealthWellness

Check out the website below for information related to diet & nutrition, recipes, fitness, beauty & aging, pain relief, and infographics.

PositiveHealthWellness

Eating the Right Foods Each Week Starts with the Grocery List

Jun 19, 2017

*this page include affiliate links, which means I receive commission if you click on the link and make a purchase*

Eating the right foods each week requires grocery shopping for the righ staples. As my doctor instructed, to reduce sugar and saturated fats. Increase my fruits, vegetables, and fiber. Meals are a challenge especially when it comes to balance and minimizing my snacking. Grocery shopping is a task because my kids are such picky eaters.

Eating Right-My Grocery Lists includes

Black Beans
Spinach
Tomatoes
Brown Rice
Sweet Potatoes
Greek Yogurt
Avocadoes
Pico De Gallo
Guacamole
Water, Water, Water

The microwavable sweet potatoes are easy, heat up for 6 minutes I added a little sea salt and Irish butter. A simple

This Rice Bowl was really easy brown rice, black beans, spinach, pico de gallo and guacamole

California Omelet – Monterey jack cheese, avocado and eggs add a dollop of sour cream

My struggle each week is finding ways to avoid salty and sugary snacks. Chocolate is my other weakness. I will admit to rewarding myself with some treats. Some weeks are easier than others.

Physical Exercise : Soul Cycle Suburban Square Admore, PA

Jun 5, 2017

2017 Time Soul Cycle class

*this post includes an affiliate link which means I will receive a commission if you click and purchase or sign up for the REDcard*

SOUL CYCLE ARDMORE

My physical exercise for the weekend. In the past 12 years, I have tried to look for different ways to workout such as spinning, yoga, pilates, and pole fitness. Ater seeing a celebrity talking about SOUL CYCLE, I researched my area to see if there was a studio. When I contacted a New Jersey studio, I learned a new studio was opening in Ardmore. After contacting the company, I was able to secure a group ride for myself and some friends.

What better way to jump start my holiday weekend than with a calorie burning new workout. Yesterday, I took my first class at 11:45 with Ryan L. For anyone who is interested in stepping up their workout regimen, I would highly suggest SOUL CYCLE. This is my newbie chronicle of what to expect for your first class. When you walk in the lobby it is so bright and cheery. The staff members are at the front desk to assist you upon check-in. The first step is to reserve a bike online so once you enter the studio you have to check in with your reserved bike. If you do not have your own cycling shoes, shoes are provided for $3 and bottles of water for $2. There are combination lockers outside of the room to lock up all of your personal items. Oh, just so you know NO PHONES ARE ALLOWED in the room while class is in session.

FIRST CLASS

As I anxiously waited for the class to start, I could feel my anticipation building. Just then the door opened and the previous class was leaving. I could tell it was quite a workout from the looks on everyone’s face and the fact most were DRENCHED! Once a class is finished, the staff members go inside to clean the room for the next class. My first thought, this is going to be a MAJOR WORKOUT! It can be a little intimidating as you enter the room because the lights are down low as well as during the class.

If you’re a newbie don’t worry about adjusting your bike or locking your shoes. SOUL CYCLE has you covered with staff members in the room to assist you with adjusting the bike and locking in your shoes. Yes, your shoe LOCKS in each pedal.

Before you take the class definitely know your FITNESS level. The class is a full 45 minutes of an upper body, lower body and of course cardio cycling workout. There are three positions on the bike to place your hands, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. You are not sitting on the saddle over the course of the RIDE. There are times during the interval in which you are standing and holding the handlebars in 2nd and 3rd position. Now you get the reason for the shoe LOCKING in each pedal!

As a newbie, it is important to provide you with some tips on CONQUERING your first class. These are some of the things I did to prepare my body. The Sunday before I did my TRX, Tuesday a PILATES video so my week ended with SOUL CYCLE. As I mentioned before this is a major cardio workout so you will sweat which means you need to hydrate the body.

SOUL CYCLE WORKOUT

Day Before the WORKOUT

Water is essential on a daily basis. I tried to drink at least 64oz of water which is my body’s comfort level for water consumption.
Dinner, I prepared pasta to fuel my body with a nice serving of carbohydrates. I added some the marinara sauce with turkey meatballs for an addition of protein.
I tried not to eat any extras loaded with sugar although I had a few tablespoons of ice cream. For the rest of the night before bed, I drank water.

Morning of WORKOUT

Breakfast, I had plain oatmeal to fuel my body with a good carbohydrate
No coffee and started drinking water
Continued to drink water, water, and more water
I took time to stretch my arms and legs before class

What to bring to the studio, arrive early I would suggest at least 20 minutes

If you have your own shoes, you are free to bring
Soul Cycle rents cycling shoes for $3
Bring either a full-size water bottle or at least 2 individual water bottles, the bike has 2 water bottle holders underneath the handlebars. The studio sells water bottles for $2. YOU WILL NEED TO HYDRATE during class
Towels are provided on each bike, however, you may prefer to bring your own
Wear comfortable shorts or pants that are non-chafing due to the workout you want apparel that wicks away the sweat
Wear a comfortable SPORTS BRA as you are not stationary throughout the 45-minute interval
Make sure you wear an effective ANTIPERSPIRANT! Trust me you will thank me later! The bikes are close together and if you read the SOUL ETIQUETTE it explains it clearly
A light snack after the WORKOUT

DURING THE INTERVAL:

Know your limits, if you cannot keep up don’t worry! Just go at your own pace and keep pedaling! There were times during the interval I rested in the saddle
HYDRATE

After the WORKOUT

HYDRATE, drink plenty of water
I grabbed a light snack after the workout, i.e. energy bars, nuts, fruit
I felt the urge to eat something smart and balanced. After burning all of those calories, I wanted a smart and healthy meal to refuel my body

The restrooms and showers are thoroughly cleaned and inviting for you to use before and after class.

My instructor was Ryan L. who is PHENOMENAL! The location is perfect in Ardmore’s Suburban Square. There is a FREE parking lot across the street from the studio.

ENJOY THE RIDE! If you’re in the area, you can reserve your first or next class here SOUL CYCLE ARDMORE!

Self-Care Evening Manicure & Pedicure Manicure Lane Exton, PA

Aug 29, 2016

Self-Care

Self-Care is important for your mind, body, and soul. I am enjoying my kid-free weeks before school starts after Labor Day. I am usually apprehensive about changing locations for my manicure and pedicure salon. Manicure Lane was convenient to schedule an after work appointment. After checking their website, I was really impressed with the salon about us page, the services offered and visiting a fume free salon.

From the moment I walked in the door, I was greeted and my appointment confirmed. Next, I was directed to select a color. I walked to the waiting area which was filled with an assortment of current magazines. The staffer walked me over to the pedicure bowl so I could soak my feet until my pedicure. Beverages are available for clients. I selected a glass of red wine and the staffer brought a bottle of water too. The pedicure chairs have a remote with massage features. If you are one who enjoys chairs with reclining backs, the chairs are without this feature, however, you can remove the pillow to make the chair comfy.

PEDICURE

My pedicure lasted 45 minutes, it included soaking my feet, shaping nails, exfoliating, a light massage with a moisturizing lotion, cutting cuticles and polish.

MANICURE

My manicure was done at the nail bar. I scheduled a dry manicure. My nails were shaped, cleaned, cuticles pushed back(my technician did cut my cuticles to clean up around nail bed) and polished. I loved having my services in separate areas.

The drying station is sensor controlled for your hands and feet. There are separate seats for each station.

I am looking forward to going back for another manicure and pedicure. Also to schedule a mommy/daughter day at the salon to have my daughter check out the kid’s manicures and pedicures. Did I mention they offer designs on the kid’s menu? There is nothing better than cleanliness, excellent customer service, free wine, and wifi! The words “happy place” are on multiple pillows and this salon is definitely on my list of favorite places in the area.

Waxing? If You Decide to get a Brazilian Wax, What You Should Know?

Aug 8, 2016

If you are considering scheduling a waxing and have decided on a Brazilian wax, here are a few items to know before and after the appointment. Another tidbit to consider is if you are a person with a low tolerance for pain, you may want to reconsider. Also, you have to be comfortable with the person who is performing this service. It is very up close and personal.

I would recommend an aesthetician (preferably) who you are comfortable with as this service is very up close and personal.

Fortunately for me, I found a wonderful certified aesthetician who works within a dermatological center.

BRAZILIAN WAXING

Things to Do Before Scheduling an Appointment

Find a licensed aesthetician
The location for services is everything. Visit the location before booking an appointment to check out location, staff, and cleanliness.
Also, ask what type is wax is used. My current aesthetician uses a soy based wax, however, this may cause an issue for someone with soy allergies.

It would be lying if I said it is not PAINFUL! The first time I had it done was right before my vacation. Remember each aesthetician will have their own technique for hair removal so again make sure you are comfortable with the overall process. The results last between4 to 6 weeks.

Before Your Appointment

Now while I do not prep my skin beforehand, I have read that exfoliating the skin before will help avoid ingrown hairs.
My skin is very sensitive to the heat of the wax prior to and right after my menstrual cycle. You may want to keep this is in mind prior to scheduling your appointment.
I do see some will do a full or partial waxing, it all depends on your preference.

After Your Appointment

After my first my Brazilian wax, I was told by the aesthetician to go commando(sans undies) and apply Gold Bond powder to the area to prevent irritation.
Now after multiple waxes under my belt, I apply the product Bikini Zone to the area and this works well.
I am susceptible to ingrown hairs so shaving is not an option for me which is why I prefer waxing.

You can find my aesthetician, Jennifer Morgan at Dermatological Associates of Bryn Mawr in Wynnewood, PA.

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