Friday Follow!

The concert last night was sooo good! I have to say that I absolutely LOVED every minute of it. Good friends, good food and great music. I love both Billy Joel and Elton John, but together they are just fantastic! The concert started off with the pianos rising up from the stage, then Billy and Elton came out and sang songs together ( hence the concert name Face to Face!) Then Elton John took over and played for almost 2 hours. I couldn't believe it. He was like the Energizer bunny. Billy Joel came out and played for a little over an hour and then they came together and finished up with songs together again. My favorites for the night were Crocodile Rock (today's workout song of the day, just try and listen without dancing!!), Piano Man, Uptown Girl and Saturday Night! All of them were good, but those were my favorites. I highly recommend that if you can get to one of their concerts, DO IT!!!!!!

As you know, yesterday I called the Ford Center and they said no photography would be allowed. So, I didn't take my camera. I was sooooo mad when I got there, cameras were everywhere, they didn't check my purse. I could've had so many great photos. I'm so unhappy with the little lady I spoke with. This is the photo I took with my cell phone.


It's another Friday and another Friday Follow! This is actually week 7, but week 2 for me! If you want to participate in all the fun, please just follow the instructions below and jump on the bandwagon!







Link up and spread the word! I'll be posting on twitter and facebook as well. Be sure to follow me there if you'd like!!!

For those of you that are new to my blog, sit back, relax and stay a while.

Elton and Billy.....

I am in OK City today to see Billy Joel and Elton John in concert. I can't wait. It's going to be a blast! We are staying in a beautiful hotel and I've taken photos to prove it.

I have heard that there are no cameras allowed in the Ford Center. WHAT???? How else am I going to show you the wonderful photos of me and the boys backstage? I'm sure they will even call me up on stage to sing to me...... I won't even be able to record it for you all to see. You'll just have to take my word on what happens.....

I'll be back tomorrow with a great post all about my travels. Had a fantatic lunch today at 105 degrees. Was hoping to go back for a little breaky in the morning, but they don't open until 11. We have to get back since my father-in-law is having surgery. Please keep Bill in your prayers.

I'll chat with you all tomorrow - don't forget to push play today!

all set!

We finally booked our flights! 34 days of pure rest and relaxation...and not to mention fun, fun, fun! California, Las Vegas, New Jersey, New York, Florida and Minnesota...with a possible side trip to Connecticut and Massachusetts. Seems like 1 month isn't enough!

The highlight of our trip is our 5-day Disneyworld vacation at Florida! I can just imagine how excited Gabby will be. He went crazy at Disneyland Hongkong, so what more at the Magic Kingdom? We'll be staying at one of the Disney Resorts - the Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa:

I can't wait! Can we fast forward to April? :)

Shakelogy 2 day fast

This last weekend, I decide before I begin this crazy workout routine (Insanity/P90X) I would do a 2 day Shakeology fast. I wanted to just get a jump start on weight loss and toning. The goal was to have Shakeology for breakfast and lunch and then have a good, whole food dinner. Not sure what I was thinking of starting this the weekend of Brian's birthday, but I had started it and was determined to finish it. Brian decided he would join me, so I thought we could be strong together. Boy, was I ever wrong!!!

Saturday AM: We get up bright and early and have our first Shakeology - tasty and feeling just great!

Saturday 11:00 AM: in a hurry, but we made our shakes, Brian had thin mint, I had greenberry lemonana. Still feeling good, but had a busy afternoon. We showed property to family and were running around like crazy. A little hungry, but not bad.

Saturday 2 PM - the family wants to eat something (they hadn't had lunch yet) so off we go to Panera Bread. I decided I would just have something to drink and Brian wasn't going to have anything. We walked in and I could smell the bagels. Oh hell no..... this isn't good, my stomach immediately starts growling. I decide I'll have a bowl of veggie soup and a roll and then a light dinner. Brian jumps right off the deep end and has coffee and a BROWNIE!!!

We run into the hardware store and as we come out - Girl Scouts from hell. Lookin' so cute with their little signs: Please support your local Girl Scouts. As we walk out, I put my head down, there will be no eye contact. They look right at Brian - bad sign - "would you like to buy some girl scout cookies, mister?" All innocent and angelic. Brian goes right over to them and buys THREE BOXES!!! I refuse to look at him. How can you do this to me? We get out to the car and Brian won't look at me. He KNOWS!!!!!! Needless to say, I ate 3 of the little buggars ( not the girl scouts!)

We go on to show property and Brian decides we need to go to the casino for a while. We lose all our money, I mean putter around for a few hours (it sure seemed that long.....) and we leave the casino a little lighter - not in lbs mind you. Brian decides he is hungry. It's now 8 PM and we didn't eat any dinner, but had that wonderful snack at 2. Somehow, Brian drives the car through Wendy's drive thru and orders a grilled chicken sandwich AND FRIES...... I order water. I'm going to be strong and do the right thing. As the car smells heavenly, I wolf down a few handfuls of fries, Brian devours his chicken sandwich and the last of the fries. What the heck happened anyway to our great intentions?????

Sunday AM: This is going to be much better. Oh, and by the way - Happy Birthday Brian!!!! Chocolate Shakeology for Brian, Greenberry lemonana for me. The kids are all coming over for dinner and I am cooking/cleaning like a mad woman.

Sunday 12:00 PM - lunch time and I'm starving. Chocolate Shakeology for both of us. Everything is under control. Cleaning is done, cooking is started. I start on the chocolate mousse. It's a healthy version made with tofu and maple syrup. I think that I am hungry, so I eat a cup of red grapes. No problems there.

Sunday 4:00 PM- Nick and Jake come in and start raiding the pantry. I'm still cooking ( making the meat loaf) and leave the open bag of popchips on the counter right in front of me. I eat 2 handfuls before I even realize it. I put them away and tell myself I'm back on track. Brian has been at an open house all afternoon, I have no idea how he is doing, but assure myself that he is busy and not thinking about food.

Sunday 6:00 PM - Dinner with the family. I did eat pretty good. Roasted veggies, salad, veggie burger, mashed potatoes and a corn muffin. Not too bad, didn't really feel stuffed. I did have some chocolate mousse, a smallish portion. Brian had a huge bowl of mousse and was miserable. He ate 2 helpings of meat loaf, a few corn muffins......

So, I get up on Monday morning thinking that the weeked was a complete bust. I jump on the scale and I lost 3 lbs. I was pretty happy with this. I really did feel lighter and my pants fit a litle looser. Brian did not get on the scale, said he just wanted to believe that it was a good experience. Go ahead and live in your fantasy world honey.....

Overall, I was very happy with my results. I would've like to not have eaten the cookies and fries, but life is just that way. I will do this again and I will do better next time. It will have to be after this crazy rotation, I need more calories to get through these workouts.

Shakeology Recipes:

Funky Monkey:

1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology

8 oz almond milk

1/2 banana

1 tbsp peanut butter

ice

Blend in a blender and enjoy!

Thin Mint:

1 scoop Chocolat Shakeology

8 oz almond milk

a FEW drops of peppermint extract

ice

Blend and enjoy!

Lemonana

1 scoop Greenberry Shakeology

6 oz organic lemonade

2 oz rice milk

1/2 banana

ice

Blend all ingredients in blender and enjoy!

German Chocolate

1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology

2 tsp almond butter

1 tsp coconut oil

8 oz almond milk

ice

Blend and enjoy!

If you are interested in learning more about Shakeology, please visit: Shakeitforyourhealth.com Purchase Shakeology now! As a Beachbody coach, I can help you achieve your health goals!

Beautify yourself and the Planet!

I have done several reviews for Paris Presents line of Eco-Tools. I truly love these products and can not say enough good things about them. Today I shot a quick video showcasing some of the newest make-up brushes.

The Bronzer Brush ($9.99) Super soft and supple and designed fo easy and proper application of bronzer on the face and neck.

The 6 Piece Eye Brush set ($7.99) contains some great travel size brushes in a natural hemp and cotton case, perfect for travel or in your handbag for on-the-go touch ups!

Be sure to check out my vlog review ( had to tape myself, sorry for all the shakiness!!) I'll get the hang of this soon!

Check out Eco-Tools on facebook! You find these great products at Walgreens or Target.

Fit Club Monday!

Another weekend has come and gone. If you over-indulged this weekend, just get back on track today. Don't continue down the steep slope, climb back up! You'll be glad you did!

Fit Club today is Insanity. This workout is not for the faint of heart. It is hard, but it is do-able. You may have to modify some of the moves and that is okay. But, if you are a beginner, I recommend you choose a different workout to start with! I can give you some suggestions if you want.

Here is a clip of Insanity! Don't let it skeer you away :)


Purchase Insanity now

I am starting a round of P90X weight workouts mixed with Insanity cardio and one day a week for yoga. I am taking Sundays as a rest/stretch day. I'm sure that I will need it. This is a 12 week rotation.

Tonight's workout is Plyo Cardio Circuit. I like this one, it's challenging, yet I can keep up for the most part. Of course I have already completed one round of Insanity.

Today's recipe:


White Beans and Fusilli - The Healthy Kitchen by Andrew Weil, MD and Rosie Daley

This makes a great lunch as well as an entree for dinner. I make this pasta dish with beans because they provide a bit of portein. Serve with a green salad and a sliced French baguette brushed with olive oil and toasted!

White Beans

1 cup Great Northern or cannellini benas, soaked overnight in 3 cups of water to cover and 1/2 tsp baking soda.
1 bay leaf
3 cups vegetable stock or broth
Pesto

1/2 cup walnuts
5 cups fresh basil
5 large cloves garlic, peeled or smashed
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese ( or Parma! - a non-dairy alternative)
2 tbsp olive oil

Pasta

1 lb fusilli or pasta shells
1/2 tsp salt
1 small onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 bunch escarole, chopped
1/3 tsp dried rosemary
1 tbsp olive oil
salt to taste

Garnish

1 lemon sliced

Drop the bay leaf into the pot of water that the beans have soaking in overnight. Bring the water to a boil, pour in the vegetable stock and cook for 45 mins or longer. The beans should be able to be easily pierced with a fork.

Make the pesto: Put all thepsto ingredients except the oil in a food processor and blend. slowly add theoil and continue to process until it becomes a smooth paste. Set aside.

Bring a loarge pot of water with the salt to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it is al dente.

Meanwhile, saute the onions, garlice, escarole and rosemary in 1 tbsp of olive oil until limp. Add salt to taste and mix in with the beans.
Drain the pasta in a colander and pour it into a large bowl. Add about 1/3 cup of the pesto or more to taste and toss well until it is distributed evenly and the strands of pasta are coated.

Serve the pasta in 6 individual pasta bowls and ladle white beans on top. Garnish each with a slice of lemon.

If you want to be added to my mailing list, I send out an email per week that goes into more detail about the featured workout of the week, send me an email and I'll get you added. dana@missourifitclub.com

You can always get a free account at Missouri Fit Club and I will help to coach you to the results you want!

Today's workout song of the day will make you move. It's so fun! Don't blame me if you don't get up and dance :)

Brian's Birthday!

It's a birthday feast at our house! Our tradition is that the birthday boy or girl gets to choose their favorite meal and it is prepared for them. We all get together and enjoy the company and meal and the birthday recipient gets to open gifts! I love this tradition. It's much better than going out to eat and more laid back. No fancy parties, just family coming together to celebrate!!!

So, it's Brian's birthday and he has chosen his meal - meat loaf, broccoli, mashed potatoes and a big salad. (Big salads always make me think of the Seinfeld show) and for dessert - no it's not a chocolate cake with chocolate icing and cherry pie filling ( this is what all the boys request every year!!!), but chocolate mousse with fresh berries and a yummy vegan cream.

I'm going to take a lot of photos and then I'll be back to show you all the fun!

Brian has already got his birthday present, we are going to see Billy Joel and Elton John on Thursday!! I can not wait for this. It's a gift for me too!!!

I can post some recipes if you want them. I plan on Fit Club post tomorrow and on Tues I will have new vlog product review :) How's that for a little teaser.

Also, be sure to check back daily for the workout song of the day. I love 33 Miles and today's song just makes me happy. Also this week I'll be posting my results from my 2 day Shakeology fast. Oh, so much to do..... I love it!

Updating with photos of tonight's festivities!

No Day But Today!

The first time I saw Rent (the movie version that is) was back in 2007 and I instantly fell in love with it. I vowed that I must watch the musical! Since then I've watched the movie over and over again (I can't even count how many times already) and I just can't get tired of it. I almost had the chance of watching the musical version last year in Minneapolis but when we were about to get the tickets, turned out it was already over :(

So when I heard that there's gonna be another round of the Manila production, I just really had to watch it. So along with some officemates, we headed to RCBC to catch the post-Valentine's showing. The musical was very close to the movie version and I loved it just the same. The actors were really good especially the ones who played Angel and Maureen. I wasn't a big fan though of Roger and Mimi. Individually, they sang well but they just had no chemistry together. It was as if they were just going through the motions. Unlike in the movie where you could really feel the love between them. But overall, the production was good!

My favorite act was of course when they sang Seasons of Love :) I'm still hoping to watch the broadway version. I'll be going to New York next month and if it's still on, I'll definitely watch it! :)

Can you be too busy?

I am just now getting some time to post on here today. I hit the ground running this morning and haven't stopped until now! Tomorrow is going to be another busy day as well. It's Brian's birthday. There will be food to cook, mousse to make (YUM!!!) and a house to clean up. We are also going to work on one of the rental properties and Brian has an open house (he's a realtor!). I'm hosting a workout as well. Whew, I think I better go to bed now :)

I was the lucky recipient of a blog award!! I love that Smart Cents Mom thought of me! Thank you so very much!

The Happy 101 Blog Award!


The rules for this award are-
1. Copy and paste the award on your blog
2. List who gave you the award and their link
3. List 10 things that make you happy
4. Pass the award on to other bloggers and let them know

I had to choose 10 things that make me happy a few days ago with another award and you can read it here! It's not cheating, just out of time :)

So, I will be passing this along to some of my newest followers!

1. Just a Night Owl

2. Cristiniscouponcrazy

3. I'd Rather Be Changing Diapers

4. Too Far to Look Back

5. Love 4 Coffee

Be sure to stop by and check out their great blogs!!! Thanks again to Smart Cents Mom!!!

Friday Follow!

Today is the first day that I am participating in the Friday Follow blog hop! I think this is so much fun and a great way to find new blogs! Be sure to check them out and also, follow and leave a comment. We love nothing better than lots of comments and followers! This is a great celebration sponsored by One 2 Try, Hearts Make Families and Midday Escapes!

If you are new to my blog, you may like to know that we always have a Fit Club Monday. I highlight a workout of the week and include a healthy recipe (usually vegetarian). I also host giveaways from time to time. I don't have any going on right now, but be sure to check back often, some great things coming up! I do reviews of products. I try to focus on healthy, eco-friendly items. I love to cook and workout. I have been known to brag about my family from time to time as well!

Below you will find a list of blogs participating this week! Grab a cup of your favorite hot beverage (coffee, tea or that great hot cocoa) and check out these wonderful blogs.

workout song of the day!

I don't know about you, but music always makes me happy. Music makes me want to get up and move. Today I am focusing on movement. I want to move more and that means, not as much time on the computer (GASP!!!), watching TV (OH NO!!) or just being lazy (I'M IN BIG TROUBLE!). I've even decided that I will walk on the treadmill when I read. I can accomplish movement with one of my favorite things to do!

I decided to add a music player to the blog and I'll be posting a song of the day! I was going to do one per week, but I love music so much that I know I'll be able to pick a favorite song every day. These will be songs that make me move. My wish is that you will listen to the song and get up and dance around! Call in the kids, the neighbors, the pets, let's all get moving today! Just let go and have fun. You will burn a few calories, lift your spirit and probably laugh a lot! I hope it just inspires you to move!

I know that this is what Brian and I look like dancing, now don't laugh too hard.....

I hope this isn't the type of dancing you do??????!!!!!! Ok, more power to you if you do!

If you have a favorite song that you would like featured, just drop me a note here or send me an email. I'll put it on!

What is YOUR favorite type of music to get you moving?

tropical traditions

Just the name makes me happy! Tropical Traditions recently sent me their coconut oil. I love using coconut oil in many different ways, so I was so glad to get to try this brand!

I use coconut oil in many different recipes as well as cook with it. Brian likes his eggs cooked in coconut oil and I love it in my smoothies.

Tropical Traditions Gold Label Standard Virgin Coconut Oil is so tasty! It actually smells and tastes like coconut. It is organic, hand-made, no refining and is made from fresh coconuts. The ingredients are 100% Organic Virgin Coconut oil. That is it! It is from the Philippines.

Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil is solid at room temperature, you don't need to refrigerate it. When you cook with it, it will liquify. Not only can you use it in cooking, you can also use it on your body, it is great as a moisturizer. One of my friends has been using it this way and he told me his age spots are disappearing. How is that for a testimony!

Tropical Traditions says on the website that if you refrigerate or freeze the coconut oil, the taste will change and some people call it candy or white chocolate. I'm definitely going to have to try that one! I'll let you know how it comes out.

Since it has been so cold outside for most of us, I am including the recipe from Tropical Traditions for Hot Cocoa!

Hot Cocoa

1 tablespoon Virgin Coconut Oil
1 tablespoon Cocoa Powder
pinch Himalayan salt
1/4 teaspoon organic whole sugar (minimum)

Pour boiling water into a mug and let sit for about 20 seconds. Empty the water and put one tablespoon full of the virgin coconut oil in it. It melts quickly as you stir in one tablespoonful of cocoa powder and a pinch of Himalayan salt. Use a minimum of 1/4 tsp. of whole organic sugar to cut the bitterness of the cocoa and then add stevia drops to taste. Usually about 12 drops. Pour boiling water in the cup, stir, and add cream or milk to taste. This makes a great treat very quickly. Other sweeteners can be used.

Tropical Traditions carries a wide variety of other products. Be sure to stop by and check out all the great products!

Follow Tropical Traditions on twitter and Facebook.

I wanted to include this video for you all to see the great benefits of coconut oil!

Fit club Monday!

Good Morning! It's Monday again and that means it's another Fit Club Monday! I will be traveling today and unable to hold class tonight. I'll be getting my workout done first thing this morning and out of the way - over and done. I like that best. Getting it done first thing means I don't try to come up with some excuse or life just gets in the way. I highly recommend you do the same. You will feel better, have more energy throughout the day and knowing that it is done is a great feeling!!

Take a moment to watch this video and if you see something you'd like more info on, just let me know.



Today's recipe comes from The Eat Clean Diet Recharged by Tosca Reno. I love this cookbook. It is full of info as well as great recipes. The Recharged version is better in my opinion, more vegetarian recipes!! I love that, it even has a vegan meal plan for a week. If you want to try this way of eating, this is a GREAT plan. Go ahead and try it, you will love it! The cookbook also includes: gluten free meal plan, family meal plan, and Cooler 1 and 2 plans. It even gives you the grocery list. So easy.


Sweet Potato Oat Bars
The Eat Clean Diet Recharged! by Tosca Reno

1 tbsp olive oil
5 sweet potatoes, washed an dtrimmed of fibers (potatoes should be the same size)
4 cups oats ( the 3-5 minute kind)
3/4 cup skim milk (or soy, rice or almond) soured with 1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup finely ground flaxseed
1/2 cup maple syrup (use the 100% maple syrup, not Aunt Jemima)
2 Tbsp pumpkin pie spice
2 Tbsp coconut butter ( also known as coconut oil)
1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, dates, cherries and/or blueberries) chopped
1/2 cup raw unsalted nuts (almonds, walnuts and/or pecans) chopped
pinch sea salt

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 9"x13" (1"deep) baking dish by coating lightly with olive oil.
2. Prick sweet potatoes all over. Place in oven and bake until tender. Remove from oven and let cool. When cool enought to handle, remove potatoe peels and place flesh in large mixing bowl. Leave oven on and set heat to 400 degrees F.
3. Add all remaining ingredients to sweet potato mixture. Mix well.
4. Press into prepared baking pan. Bake for 30-35 mins or until golden on top.
5. Remove from heat and let cool. Cut into squares.

Nutritional Value Per Serving: Calories 189, Calories from Fat 43, Protein 6g, Carbs 31g, Total Fat 5.5g, Saturated Fat 1g, Trans Fat 0g, Fiber 4g, Sodium 20 mg, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sugar 8g

Love from Minnesota...part 2!

Valentine's day didn't start right for us with the news of my cousin passing away. All our plans for the day were scrapped off and I almost forgot that it is valentine's. But when I got home in the afternoon, vday was redeemed - a beautiful bouquet of 2 dozens red roses and a pink teddy bear were waiting for me :)

At least I still have a good memory of this day. As always, he never fails to make valentine's special wherever we may be. But as much as I love receiving all these flowers, I'd gladly give them up and just spend this day with him. I hope next year, we'll finally be able to celebrate together

Thanks, dear. You made my day. I love you! :)

life is short

I usually catch up on my sleep during weekends. I normally wake up at around 10ish or so already and my mom knows that. So when she woke me up this morning at 6:30 am, I knew something was up. I was still half asleep as I tried to open my eyes to find out why my mom was standing by my door so early in the morning. And the moment she said the news, I was awakened. My cousin Jasper (known to us as Kuya Orange) passed away. As in what the f*ck?! Are you serious?! He wasn't sick or anything so my initial thought was, was he in a car accident?

Turns out he got confined yesterday at Medical City because of a tummy ache and back pain. What they thought was just a precautionary measure turned out to be the worst thing ever. He had a cardiac arrest early in the morning but the doctors were able to revive him but that left him in a comatose state already. Then his organs started to fail and the doctors said that he was having an internal bleeding but they can't say why or where it is coming from. He was being stabilized and getting ready for dialysis when he flat-lined again and this time, he didn't make it anymore. He died at 6:30 am. Less than 24 hours when he got confined.

We are all in shock and still can't believe that he's gone. We just saw him a month ago during Gabby's birthday and he was as alive as can be. He was always the makulit cousin who always had some funny story and classic hirits that left us laughing so hard. He's the eldest of the cousins in my mother's side and we all grew up together. We are a very close-knit family and we made it a point to have regular reunions. We used to see each other every weekend when my grandma was still alive. But even after she was gone, we still tried to keep in touch often. Lately though our reunions became seldom because of work and since the other cousins now have their own families that kept them quite busy. All Saints Day and Christmas are still must-have-reunions, and also when it's the birthday of one of the kids, but we try to still have one of those weekend gatherings every once in a while. We were even planning to have a summer vacation for the entire family again (we used to do this yearly before). So hearing this sad news really hit us big time.

It's just too soon. He's only 36 years old, leaving his wife of only 5 years and a 3-year old daughter behind. We still don't know yet the exact cause of his death. Even the doctors are baffled. The family decided to have an autopsy so we're just hoping that that would give us answers. We immediately went over to their house to console the family and his wife, and seeing them was just heartbreaking. I can imagine what they're going through as I just experienced the same thing less than a year ago. But this is worse especially for my Tito and Tito - having them bury their own son :( His wife was in a total loss and all that we can offer are our sympathy. His younger brother (who's about my age) is trying his best to keep a strong front as he kept the whole family together and took charge of making all the arrangements.

Until now, it still hasn't sunk in that Kuya Orange is gone. It made us all realize that life is indeed short and you can never tell when it will be taken away from you. You can never be prepared for death and the least that you could do is really make the most out of your everyday. Treat the present as if it's your last. Do the things you've wanted to do for so long, say I love you to the people that matters, live life to the fullest and have no regrets. I realized all these when I lost my dad, and now even more with the passing of our dear cousin.

I know that no amount of comforting words nor sympathy will make it ok, especially for the family that he left behind. For now, we are just praying that he's at peace already and praying for the whole family - for strength that we may come to accept what happened, be at peace with it and move on...eventually.

We'll miss you Kuya Orange...

vday is ME day

It seems not having a 'normal' valentine's with my boyfriend is the story of my life. Hahaha. It's our 4th (how fast time flies!) valentine's already and yet, we're still apart. This time around, he's the one who's in Minnesota. Oh well. I'm kinda used to it already but I don't wanna sulk and mope around. So with him far away and me on 'single' mode, vday is me day!

Since the past week has just been so toxic work-wise (working til 2-3am the entire week!), it's time to pamper myself. I was just set to relax and spend the weekend with my family. So I started my vday weekend by getting a haircut. With summer just around the corner, it's time for a short 'do. I'm due to have my hair done anyway since it has been 6 months since I last had it cut and rebonded.

After about 5 hours (that's why I just do this every 6 months!), my mom and I then headed to the Paseo Mall in Sta. Rosa where I wanted to check out the Debenhams and Marks and Spencer outlet store. It was quite disappointing though coz the stores were so small (it is NOT an outlet!) and had limited choices and sizes. But I was still able to get a cute top from Debenhams for only P500 (originally priced at P1250) and a pair of brown slacks from Marks for only P650 (originally at P1750). I guess it wasn't that bad after all but I won't go back on a regular basis.

We then headed to Town to meet up with my brother and his girlfriend to watch Valentine's Day. The movie was at 5:20 and since we arrived a little early, I still had time to do some shopping. Hehehe. I ended up getting a pair of pink and gold Havaianas wedges. I wanted to look around more but it was time for the movie.

Armed with my fix of Tater's Sour Cream popcorn with butter (this is my must-have movie snack) and a bag of dark and milk chocolate malt balls (which is starting to become another must-have), we settled in our 6th row middle aisle seats (thank you sureseats for reservations!). And I must say that I didn't regret watching this over Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief. I absolutely loved it! I initially thought that this might be too mushy and I might end up regretting watching this without my boyfriend. But it turned out to be a really nice, feel good, not too mushy but sweet Valentine flick. Some say all-star cast movies are overrated but not this one! Each one had an interesting storyline but I must say McSteamy's and Mr. Hangover's was the winner! Hahaha. I'd love to see this again!

It was dinner at Pancake House to cap off the night. I had their Rib Eye steak which was surprisingly good at a very reasonable price. The serving's pretty big that I ended up taking half of it home (which was the perfect midnight snack...hehehe).

I finally got home at around 10pm already. It was a pretty fun day. At least I didn't feel so single this weekend... but of course, nothing beats spending Valentine's with him. I just hope that next year we'd be able to finally spend it together :)

10 years

I'm pretty amazed with the efficiency of the whole US visa process. We just got our passports after only 2 days since we had our interview...and it's another 10 years! Yey! :)

jamie Oliver's TED Prize wish

Please take a moment to watch this. We need to educate our children and ourselves. Diet plays such an important role in our health. I won't go into any rant or rave, but feel free to share your comments with me! I couldn't believe that the kids didn't know the vegetables and fruits. So sad.

Tribest Personal Blender

I was so very lucky to have Tribest send me a personal blender. This little blender is pretty cool! I've been using it about 2 weeks now and I'm sold. It makes smoothies so easy and I love that I don't have to dirty up another glass to drink them!

The Tribest PB-250 is a blender and grinder combo! You can take this with you anywhere, it is lightweight and portable. The 200 watt motor is strong enough to grind up the ice and it has 2 mode operations: pulse blending/grinding and continuous blending/grinding.

The grinder is great for flax seeds, nuts and coffee beans and herbs.

The cups are BPA free and easy to clean. Just hand wash and go. You don't want to put them into the dishwasher. I find that if I just rinse my cup after drinking/eating, then it is a breeze to clean up. BPA is Bisphenol-A. This is a hormone-disrupting chemical that can be harmful to our health and/or the environment. It is also thought that if your plastic bottles or containers are scratched or worn the BPA may leach into our foods. I find that it is best to avoid it when possible. I love the commuter lid. It is great to take in the car!

The only drawback I have found is that at times it is hard to get the blending attachment on correctly. A couple of times, I had to work with it for quite some time before I got it on properly so that it would work.

I have been very happy with the way the Tribest PB250 has worked for me and I am so happy that Tribest has been kind enough to host a giveaway to one lucky reader! This is so much better than the Magic Bullet. Jake was trying to gain weight during wrestling season (not the norm, I know...) and was drinking protein shakes twice a day. He burnt up the motor in the Magic Bullet. The Tribest PB 250 has a much stronger motor and will last, even through Jake :)

To enter the contest:

Head over to Tribest and check out all the cool products they offer. Come back here and tell me which product you would be most excited to try and why!

Bonus Entries:

1) Become a follower of Feeling Fit with Dana (if you already are, just say so!)

2) Become a fan of Feeling Fit with Dana on facebook ( same thing goes as above!)

3) Tweet about this giveaway: @Danamoritz, I hope I win the Tribest Personal Blender from Feeling Fit With Dana

4) Follow Tribest on Twitter ( be sure to let me know you are a followerer)

5) Sign up for a free Beachbody account at Missouri Fit Club (same as above!)

You have to do the main entry to get the bonus entries! Winner will be chosen by random.org on Feb. 18th. The winner will have 48 hours to respond to the winning email. Otherwise a second chance drawing will be held! Good luck and happy blending! Winner must live in the USA and sorry, but must exclude Hawaii and Alaska.

Here's my fave smoothie recipe (for right now)

Lemonana:

6 oz. organic lemonade

2 oz. rice milk

1 scoop Greenberry Shakeology

1/2 banana

ice

Blend in the PB 250 for a perfect smoothie!

Don't know about Shakeology? Check it out at shakeitforyourhealth.com Email me with any questions or to request a sample! (dana@missourifitclub.com)

Approved!

The last time I held a similar number was about 3 years ago when I got my L1 visa. And just this morning, I found myself at the US Embassy again, this time to renew our B1/B2 visa with my brother. Since my brother's graduating from college in March and my mom just retired from almost 30 years of work late last year, it's about time to take another family vacation - we're off to the US this summer! Of course it won't be the same without my dad, but with what we've all been through, I'm sure he won't have it any other way. My brother and I needed to have our visas renewed (it's expiring in March) so until we're 100% sure, we haven't really made any plans yet.

Our interview was at 7:30 am so we arrived at the embassy around 6:30. There were still a lot of people but not as much as before - surprisingly, there was no line outside. The whole process from pre-screening to the finger scanning was relatively quick. We were already inside the interview area just before 9am. My brother and I were pretty confident and calm since we were just renewing our visas - we have our requirements in place, no hidden agendas (we simply want to have a vacation) and with our travel record (I've been in and out of the US every year for the past 4 years and my brother has been to the US as well for our family vacation back in 2001), I can see no reason why we would be denied.

So we patiently waited for our numbers to be called. We sat close to the consul windows so we can pretty much hear what's going on. And that's when we started to get a bit nervous since all the applicants before us were denied! Some were already telling their whole life story, showing all sorts of documents, reasoning out and all...but to no avail. There was a whole family of 4 who didn't get lucky enough, an old lady who just wanted to visit her sister and even a guy who wanted to go to the US to be with his wife who is about to give birth - all were denied! And looking at the other windows, people were going out with their passports in hand and the blue paper which pretty much indicates why they got denied. Waaaah! I have to admit that I was getting pretty nervous already and my brother, who's having the interview for the first time (it was still the drop-box thing 10 years ago), was getting anxious as well.

We tried our best to stay calm and bottomline, just be honest with our answers. After what seemed like an eternity (but it was just about 20 minutes or so), we were finally called to Window 2. The consul was an asian guy (who I think was the same consul who interviewed me when I got my L1 visa) and thank God, the interview was quick and sweet. Didn't even last for 5 minutes. He only asked us what we will be doing there, who was our point of contact (it's our cousin in NJ), how along I've been with Accenture and what year and course is my brother in. And with that he simply said 'Your visas are approved. Proceed to Air21'. He didn't even ask to see any of our documents. Whew!

What a relief! It sure felt good to walk out of the interview area WITHOUT our passports. We then headed to the Air21 booth and arranged to have our passports delivered. And so after about just 2 1/2 hours, we're set for our US summer vacation! We're hoping we'd get another 10-year multiple entry visa just like before.

I can't wait for summer! :)

an award!

Lady V over at A Little Bit of This was kind enough to pass this award on to me! I'm so flattered. Thank you very much Lady V!!!! Be sure to check out her blog, she's really cute and funny!

10 Things that Make Me Happy!

1. Being married to the man I love and being able to call him my best friend.

2. My kids - they are just the best and always keep me on my toes

3. Miss Madelyn. She can just brighten up even the worst day!

4. Good friends that like to read what I have to say! Thank you to each and every one of you!

5. Warm weather - I don't like to be cold!

6. Working out - I know it's weird, but that is how I roll!

7. My job - I love being able to help other people get healthy and fit!

8. The beach - I can't wait until I can move to the beach and be there all the time.

9. A great meal with all the family around. - Nothing better!!!

10. a good book, right now I am reading several - finishing up Eat That Frog (time management), The Heretic Queen ( for pleasure), Grooming the Next Generation (great for sharing with my kids), and last but not least The Kind Diet (cookbook)

In the spirit of the over the top blog award, I need to pass this along to 5 people that I think are deserving!

1. 504 Main

2. 3 Little Monkeys

3. Holyoke Home

4. Masala Chica

5. The Skinny Fight

Thank you so much for this great award!!! Hope I can live up to the name!

Tomorrow I'll have a cool giveaway and review of a personal blender, be sure to check back!!

Little Polar Bear Goes to the US

Gabby just came back from his first US trip and he surely had fun! He even got a taste of snow...that part he didn't like that much because he had to put on layers and layers of clothes to be able to go out. Hehehe. Can't wait for all of us to go back this summer :)

i heart pink

...especially if it's Coach! I'm so happy with my Coach loot that my sis brought home from the US :) belated happy birthday to me! Hihihi :)

a tote bag...

a wristlet...
and a wallet...
I can't wait to use them! :)

Fit Club Monday!

Good Morning! I love Mondays! It's a clean slate, a fresh start and a new week! I have such high hopes on Monday for how my week will go!

With Monday's comes Fit Club! this is a chance for you to get information about the workout I will be doing today. I change it up every Monday and showcase a different Beachbody workout! I offer a free workout in my home and if you are ever in the area on Mondays and want to come sweat and have fun, stop by!

Today's featured workout is P90X! I have done the X 4 times. I LOVE it! In fact, I am getting ready to start a new round of the X and Insanity together! I think this will be so fun, a combo of Tony and Shaun T. It's a girl's dream come true :)

If you haven't had the pleasure of viewing the P90X infomercial, here's a little teaser for you!



Purchase P90X now

I love to eat salads. Any kind, with TONS of veggies and some seeds and nuts thrown in for good measure. We all know that salads are healthy, but when we get to salad dressing, what to put on them can be tricky. This is a great dressing to use and is a bit healthier! I plan to go to the Chicago Diner next time I am in Chicago!!!

Creamy Garlic Dressing:
The Chicago Diner cookboo by chef Jo A. Kaucher

To creat this creamy dressing, make certain that you do not blend the mayonnaise, for it will turn into liquid.

1 cup soymilk
2 tsp. lemon juice
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
2/3 cup mayonnaise (vegannaise is a great egg-free mayo, look for it at your local health food store)
2 Tbsp. chopped parsley
pinch salt

Place the soymilk, lemon juice and garlic in a blender and process until the mixture is smooth like milk and the garlic is not chunky. Pour inot a bowl and add the rest of the ignredients. Stir well and season to taste.

*****A great tip to save calories at the salad bar - get your dressing on the side. Dip your fork into the dressing first, then get your salad on the fork. Still gets the dressing on the salad, but you don't use as much and get all the flavor! We had so much fun at our Super Bowl party yesterday. Good food, good friends and a pretty good game! Can't ask for much more than that huh?

Some of our good eats! Corn muffins, spinach dip, Guaca Salsa, Spinach Dip, Upside Down Caramel Apple Pie, Chocolate Coffe Brownies. Somehow I didn't get any photos of the wonderful chili and you can get a glimpse of the amazing veggie tray in the background. Yes, that is purple cauliflower. So pretty!