Year in review with the family!

Hain - 2010

The New Year is upon us...here is the best New Year's Resolution around!

The Holiday's are past and we're into the last stretch of 2010, what will you do in 2011 to make it better?  Many people jump onto New Year's Resolutions to lose weight and only end up failing.  By becoming a Beachbody Coach, you commit to living healthier, getting fit and also encourage others to do the same.  We currently have over 45,000 Coaches in the country...that's a huge number of people who are working towards similar goals and can help HOLD YOU ACCOUNTABLE to reach your goals!  You not only have the opportunity to change your life and health, but other's as well.  PLUS, you get paid for it!  If you're ready to make a change this New Year that will last a lifetime, affect your family and children, and give you all the tools you need to succeed, send us a message by emailing Kristin@Lift-Fit.com.  We'll help you get started and work with you along your journey.  No experience needed, this is for everyone of any age or fitness level.  All you need is a sincere desire to live a better life!  Are you ready to DECIDE???

'Tis the Season to Have Cocktails: 8 Lower-Calorie Drinks to Enjoy

by Stephanie S. Saunders

Who doesn't like a good cocktail during the holidays? Sure, spending 3 days straight with your extended family might have something to do with it, but beside that, almost everyone likes to let loose at this time of year. And there are plenty of occasions to do so. From the office holiday party, to the lighting of the menorah, to the various "Eve" and "Morning" festivities, there's no shortage of celebrations in which to involve libations.
Unfortunately, most holiday cocktails tend to give the gifts of too much fat and too many calories. One cup of eggnog has 343 calories and 19 grams of fat (see this week's recipe below for a lighter version)! It's a meal in a cup, with a ton of added fat and sugar. Then, there are the hot chocolates, mulled ciders, and traditional grogs that chase away the winter chill but help hold on the pounds. And we can't forget about all of the themed mixed drinks that make every party a bit more fun, and our waistlines a bit more full. So how do we enjoy the fun of the holiday season without having to hide behind bulky sweaters till July? Here are 8 fun drink ideas that are lower in fat, calories, and sugar than their original versions.


Pumpkin Pie Martini
Yeah, I know. It's as good as it sounds. There are several pumpkin liqueurs on the market, which are convenient, but add a ton of calories. By using the actual squash, you get the flavor without the calories—and, believe it or not, a little fiber in your drink.

6 oz. canned unsweetened pumpkin

6 oz. vanilla-flavored vodka
4 oz. fat-free condensed milk
4 oz. unsweetened almond milk (or fat-free milk)
4 Tbsp. pumpkin pie seasoning
Ice cubes
6 crushed reduced-fat vanilla wafers


Place vodka and pumpkin in bowl, and stir until pumpkin has melted. Stir in condensed milk and almond milk. Add seasoning. Dip rim of glass in crushed vanilla wafers. Pour liquid over ice into glass and enjoy. Serves 6.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories Protein Fiber Carbs Fat Total Saturated Fat

105 2 grams 1 gram 6 grams <1 gram <1 gram

Grog
Its rich history dates back 400 years, when it used to be rationed out to sailors at sea. The big babies wouldn't drink their scurvy-preventing dose of lemon juice straight, so the powers-that-be dressed it up with a little rum. Since the added ingredients only serve to make it that much tastier, it stands to reason that being "three sheets to the wind" was fairly common.
Juice of 2 lemons
1 lemon peel
4 Tbsp. of sugar
4 whole cloves
1 whole orange peel
4 oz. golden rum
10 oz. water
4 cinnamon sticks

In a pan, combine the lemon juice and peel with the sugar, cloves, orange peel, cinnamon sticks, and water. Let simmer for 15 minutes, and then slowly stir in rum. Pour though a fine strainer into mugs, and serve each mug with a cinnamon stick. Serves 4.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories Protein Fiber Carbs Fat Total Saturated Fat
118 <1 gram <1 gram 14 grams <1 gram <1 gram
Gingerbread Toddy
In cold weather, a hot drink can warm you up faster than a Snuggie® and an electric blanket. This hot toddy will get you warm, and make you think you are eating gingerbread cookies in the process. Yummy.

1 oz. brandy
1 oz. gingerbread liqueur
1 lemon wedge
8 oz. hot water
cinnamon stick (optional)


Pour ingredients into a preheated mug in the order listed. Serve garnished with a cinnamon stick to stir. Serves 1.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories Protein Fiber Carbs Fat Total Saturated Fat
155 <1 gram <1 gram 11 grams <1 gram <1 gram

Holiday Hot Chocolate
You can do this the easy way and buy no-sugar-added hot chocolate in packages. But you're no slacker. You can make homemade hot chocolate, which makes your house smell amazing, and impresses your friends and family.

4 cups evaporated fat-free milk
1 cup fat-free milk
1/2 cup baking chocolate
2 Tbsp. vanilla extract
1/2 cup sugar, or natural sugar substitute, like agave
6 oz. Frangelico® liqueur

Combine evaporated milk, fat-free milk, chocolate, vanilla, and sugar in pan and heat over stove on low. Stir in Frangelico. Pour into mugs and serve with a small candy cane. Serves 6.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories Protein Fiber Carbs Fat Total Saturated Fat
340 16 grams 2 grams 45 grams 6 grams 3 grams

Peppermint Martini
This is, perhaps, the simplest and tastiest low-calorie cocktail out there. Just three ingredients and a bit of candy cane. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.

9 oz. vanilla vodka
9 oz. peppermint schnapps
3 oz. fat-free condensed milk
Ice
Mini candy canes


Place all liquids in a martini shaker with ice. Shake and pour into glasses. Serve with a candy cane. Serves 6.

Nutritional Information (per serving; not counting the candy cane)
Calories Protein Fiber Carbs Fat Total Saturated Fat
232 1 gram <1 gram 13 grams <1 gram <1 gram

Mulled Apple Cider
Nothing makes a house smell more like Christmas than some mulled apple cider—except those overpriced candles that they constantly advertise on TV. And this tastes better, so take that, Glade®!

8 cups apple cider
1 3-inch cinnamon stick
10 whole cloves
1 navel orange, peeled and sliced crosswise
A 2-inch piece of peeled fresh ginger, cut into 6 slices
4 oz. light brandy


In a large saucepan, combine cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, orange and ginger, and simmer the mixture for 20 minutes. Pour brandy into pan. Strain through a fine strainer into a heatproof pitcher, and serve the mulled cider warm. Serves 6.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories Protein Fiber Carbs Fat Total Saturated Fat
202 <1 gram <1 gram 37 grams <1 gram <1 gram

Blitzen's Bliss
Given Blitzen is the final reindeer in the lineup, he probably gets knocked around a fair bit by the sleigh over the course of Christmas Eve. But once he has circumvented the globe, he comes home, has a few of these, and it's all good. Not only does he feel better, but since they're just 130 calories apiece, he doesn't feel all bloated for his Christmas dinner the next day.

2 cups pomegranate juice
Juice of two limes
8 oz. vodka
1 tsp. peppermint extract
12 ice cubes
6 mini candy canes
4 tablespoons chopped mint


Place all liquids in shaker with ice. Shake and pour into individual glasses. Top with sprinkle of mint and candy cane. Serves 6.


Nutritional Information (per serving; not counting candy cane)
Calories Protein Fiber Carbs Fat Total Saturated Fat
130 <1 gram <1 gram 11 grams <1 gram <1 gram

Sangria for Santa
Santa really appreciates the cookies and milk. But after hundreds of years, he's over it. Want to be on the "nice" list next year? Then get a little naughty. Leave some sangria for Santa by the fireplace.

10 green grapes, halved
4 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 peach, pitted and sliced
1 bottle of white or red wine
1-1/2 cups white grape juice
1/2 cup brandy
2 sprigs fresh mint


Fill a large glass pitcher halfway with ice; add fruit and wine. Add juice and brandy; stir gently. Stir in mint. Let sit in refrigerator for 2 hours before serving. Serves 6.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories Protein Fiber Carbs Fat Total Saturated Fat
183 1 gram 1 gram 14 grams <1 gram <1 gram

So if this holiday season finds you having a "cup of cheer," at least you can enjoy it and not have to wear your Santa outfit for the month of January. Happy Holidays!

Low-Fat Holiday Eggnog
Want to serve something festive that won't have you looking like Santa in the New Year? P90X nutritionist Carrie Wiatt's twist on this holiday favorite has a great carb-protein-fat ratio that'll help you stay healthy for the holidays.

4 cups skim milk
12 oz. evaporated skim milk
4 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Ground nutmeg

Chill 6 oz. of the evaporated milk in the freezer for 30 minutes so it will whip better. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together skim milk, remaining 6 oz. of evaporated milk, eggs, and sugar. Rinse your whisk in hot water to ensure that no bacteria from the egg remain. Once you've done that, use a wooden spoon to stir the mixture on the stove constantly for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. (Do NOT boil.) Remove pan from heat; transfer mixture to a large bowl.and let it cool for several minutes. Place chilled evaporated milk and vanilla in a small bowl and whisk together until slightly thickened. Add it to the egg mixture and whisk for a few minutes more, until frothy. Refrigerate for 4 to 24 hours. If the eggs begin to coagulate, you can strain the mixture to remove the solids. Top with ground nutmeg before serving. You may substitute 1/2 cup of rum or brandy for vanilla. Makes 12 servings.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (mixing), 4 hours and 30 minutes to 24 hours (prechilling)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories Protein Fiber Carbs Fat Total Saturated Fat

73 6 grams >1 gram 7 grams 2 grams 1 gram

*Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

JOIN OUR TEAM...HELP OTHERS GET HEALTHY WHILE FULFILLING YOUR OWN GOALS & DREAMS!

The New Year is approaching quickly which will bring a flood of new customers to our business with all the New Year's resolutions!  Our mission is to help people achieve their goals and live a healthy and fulfilling life...and there are PLENTY of people out there who need our help to do that!  Obesity is at an all-time high in the United States and it's estimated that by the year 2030, 80% of adults in our country will be overweight or obese!  WHAT???  Do you want to be a part of the millions of unhealthy Americans who will have shorter life-spans, outrageous medical bills and expanding waistlines?  Wouldn't it be better if you could help yourself and many more change that outlook?  With Team Beachbody YOU CAN!  We are part of a movement that is stirring across the country, it's something BIG, something that will CHANGE THE LIVES OF THOUSANDS...MILLIONS...of people who need us and desperately want help but don't know where to start.  My husband Pat and I are part of the company's largest, most successful teams of Beachbody Coaches and WE NEED YOUR HELP!  I hope you will take this to heart, consider where you're at in your life, where your health is at, where the health of your family and friends is at...what will that look like in 10 years?  We currently have over 43,000 Coaches across the country and our goal is to have 1-Million within the next 5 years.  That's 1-Million Coaches who will be helping 100-Million people get healthy, fit and live longer more fulfilling lives.  WILL YOU HELP US???  Please email or call me right away and I can help you get started....I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE YOU ON OUR TEAM!!!  Please watch this video to learn about the opportunity, then get in touch with me and let me know what you think!

Happy Halloween from our house to yours!

Introducing Team Beachbody...watch this video!

http://www.Lift-Fit.com to learn more or get started!

Get 25% OFF ALL Beachbody products NOW!

Exciting news today from Corporate....they are waiving the $39.95 Coach start up fee effective IMMEDIATELY through the December 31st, 2010!  This means ANYONE can sign up to be a coach for FREE and get 25% OFF all Beachbody products right NOW!  This includes SHAKEOLOGY, P90X, INSANITY, Turbo Jam, 10-Mintue Trainer, Brazil Butt Lift, Turbo FIRE, Acti-Vit Vitamins, P90X Protein Bars, P90X Results & Recovery Formula...yep, that's right, EVERYTHING that Beachbody offers!  If you've been on the fence about becoming a Coach, NOW is the time to jump it...HEY!  IT'S FREE!!!!  OR, if you want to try Shakeology but didn't want to spend $119....HEY!  Now you can get the coach discount of 25% OFF so it's only $89!  Better yet, order it on Home Direct and get FREE SHIPPING TOO!!!!  CHRISTMAS is just around the corner....HEY!  What a great idea for Christmas gifts....P90X, INSANITY, Protein Bars, Shakeology, etc....great gifts!!!  And don't forget those STOCKING STUFFERS!!!!  You can get Shakeology single-serving packets, P90X Protein Bars and more cool stuff that is great to stuff in stockings.........ALL 25% OFF!!!!!!!  What are you waiting for???  OH, YEAH......I suppose you're waiting to hear about getting a jump start on those NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS?   Well, this is a great time to thinkg of that too....in less than 3 months, millions in the United States will make a resolution to lose weight, eat better, and live a healthier life in 2011....too many will pay hundreds each month for a gym membership only to be disappointed when they don't get results.  BUT WAIT!  If you act now you can join Team Beachbody as a Coach for FREE...and get a jump start on your New Year's Resolution!  No gym memberships, no sweaty equipment, no lines, no politics....just YOU and your TV and an amazing DVD that WILL WORK!  Plus, get started with ME as your sponsor and I'll help you along the way for FREE!!!  So much FREE stuff, what are you waiting for???  Get started today, email me at:  Kristin@Lift-Fit.com or go to www.Lift-Fit.com, and click "Coach Info", then "Click HERE to be a coach"....it will change your life....I promise!

Working out with Tony at the YMCA!

We're Expanding in St. Louis...looking for the right person! Is it YOU?

Find Jobs - Interested in Health, Fitness or Nutrition? Watch our Video!? Jobs in Saint Louis, Missouri - Beachbody

Click the link above to view our job listing for the St. Louis market. Not in St. Louis?? Contact us at 402.404.LIFT or email Kristin@Lift-Fit.com for more information!

Statistics of Obesity in the US

Obesity and Overweight:


More than two thirds, 68%, of American adults are overweight.

One person in three (over 33%) is obese, that's 72 million people.

If obesity continues to rise at the present rate, in less than ten years' time, by 2018, 43% of Americans will be obese.

After smoking, obesity is America's biggest cause of premature death.

It is also a major contributor to the health problems which are the leading killer diseases: it's linked to
70% of heart disease; after smoking, it's the biggest cause of cancer; and over 80% of type 2 diabetes is related to being overweight.

Obese people suffer from poorer health during their life and are likely to die ten years younger than a healthy person.

Obesity accounts for nearly 10% of US healthcare spending. This amounts to $147 billion annually. Smoking, by comparison, costs only $96 billion.

Healthcare costs are 42% higher for someone who is obese, over $1,400 each.

Medicare spends $600 more on prescription drugs for an obese person.

Beachbody and The American Diabetes Association are working together to fight obesity in the United States.  Many of Beachbody's fitness and nutritional programs are endorsed by the ADA.  Contact me for more information!

WE NEED YOUR HELP!!!

TO JOIN THE FIGHT AGAINST OBESITY JOIN OUR TEAM OF SUCCESSFUL COACHES TODAY!

www.Lift-Fit.com
402.404.LIFT (5438)
Email: Kristin@Lift-Fit.com

Building Mass with P90X

Let's face it, anyone that has participated in the P90X exercise program knows that it was designed to help you build lean muscle and shed unwanted pounds and fat. Some of the P90X before and after pictures you see on the internet are simply amazing, they just confirm that this program is no joke and one can easily achieve their fitness goals by following it.
P90X is so effective in getting you ripped that it's very difficult to build muscle mass when following the program to a tee. It's great for those that want to drastically tone up but how about those that are happy with their body fat percentage and want to gain muscle? Below are just some of the key components that are absolutely required when your goal is to build muscle mass via P90X.

Train with Heavier Weight: One of the most important factors when trying to gain muscle is to lower your rep count while increasing your weight. You should be doing 6-8 reps and make sure you are using a weight that you will absolutely fail on the last rep. If you can only do 4 reps, take a few second break and try to do another 2-3. 12-15 reps should be done when your goal is to tone up and build lean muscle.
Nutrition: Eat more calories! You must increase your calorie intake if your goal is to build muscle. Most people feel like they can eat whatever they want but this could not be further from the truth. Yes, you will need to eat more but reach your calorie goal by eating high-quality foods. For muscle growth, carbohydrates are not as essential as protein and fats. Your body will not be able to build bigger muscles without an ample amount of protein. You should at least shoot for 1 gram of protein per pound of body-weight. If you weigh 200 pounds, you should consume at least 200 grams of protein a day. Don't get me wrong, carbohydrates are also very important as they fuel your muscles and provide your body with the energy needed to complete a P90X workout at a high intensity level.
Eliminate a Cardio Workout: Too much cardio slows down muscle growth and P90X has plenty of it. Think about it, even the P90X resistance training routines are somewhat cardio-type workouts. You are constantly moving and completing each exercise one right after another with little or no break.
Recovery Drink: I highly recommend some sort of recovery drink no matter what fitness program you are participating in but I feel that it's all out mandatory when you are trying to build muscle mass. A post-workout recovery drink with carbohydrates and protein stops the breakdown process that occurs after a workout and stimulates muscle repair and growth. It's very important to supply your muscles with the nutrients needed after an intense workout, especially when the focus in on building muscle.
Following these tips will help you build muscle mass with P90X. Remember to fight for those extra reps, most people give up too early so break through that mental barrier and muscle up 2-3 more. Also, do not underestimate the nutrition piece as it plays a critical role in building muscle. Drink plenty of water (body weight (lbs) x.06 = water intake in ounces) and if at all possible, try to eat 6 meals a day spread out every 2-4 hours.

A new outlook...my experience with Thyroid Eye Disease and recent corrective surgery.

Before surgery-Lower lids puffy and droopy.

Years after being diagnosed with Grave's Disease and resulting Thyroid Eye Disease, I finally had surgery to help correct the eye problems that have developed.  For those who aren't familiar, Graves is an autoimmune disease which causes hyperthyroidism.  About 10 years ago I started taking a Jazzercise class to help tone my muscles and after 6 months I found I was losing weight...way more than ever intended.  I went to my doctor who did some bloodwork and found my thyroid levels to be "off" so he sent me to an Endocrinologist for futher tests.  Long story short, I was diagnosed with Grave's disease, given radioactive iodine treatment (one pill at the cost of about $1300), and then rode a long roller-coaster of trying to reregulate my thyroid.  See the R.I. pill basically eats away at the excess thyroid often leaving too little and therefore requiring thyroid replacement (in the form of medication) for the rest of my life.  Throughout the years of trying to reregulate my thyroid after the R.I. treatment I've experienced everything from weight gain, weight loss, thinning hair, dry skin, depression, anxiety and panic attacks to insomnia, feeling too cold/hot, dry eyes, and much more.  The thyroid affects nearly every function in the body.  One of my symptoms included the development of "Thyroid Eye Disease" which causes fluid to build up behind the eye, pushing it forward and resulting in a "bug eye" appearance.  While this wasn't as severe in me as some cases, it has caused me a lot of discomfort, embarrasement and self-conciousness for many years.  I finally asked my eye specialist if anything could be done and he said YES!  So here begins my current journey...this Tuesday I underwent "Bi-Lateral Canthoplasty" with an Alloderm implant (don't know the tech. term for this portion of the surgery) to reconstruct my lower eyelids.  The short version is:  my eyes don't close all the way at night which causes severe dryness, itching, bloodshot look and this will hopefull "fix" or at least improve the situation!  The surgery was supposed to last a couple of hours, I ended up in surgery for almost 4 hours though.  I had what looked like small styrofoam blocks stiched under my eyes which were then strapped (with sutures) and taped to my forehead to hold the lower lids up immediately after surgery.  Had those removed yesterday so I look a little less freakish now, but am still very swollen, sore and look like I got into a street fight!  The recovery on this type of surgery is much longer than typical cosmetic eye surgeries so I am out of work for at least 2 weeks (note:  I do landscaping which carries a very high risk of my eyes getting dirt or other material in them, someone with a desk job could probably go back to work sooner).  I definately don't want to risk any sort of infection!!  Here are pics of my results so far (before surgery, immediately following surgery, and 3 days after surgery)...stay tuned for more surgery update pics, hopefully the end result will look amazing!!!

Immediately following surgery.

One day after surgery.

3 days after surgery.

Jonathan Congdon improves customer service at Beachbody - How to train employees to offer support that solicits word-of-mouth recommendations

Beachbody has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau...just in case you were wondering!
Jonathan Congdon improves customer service at Beachbody - How to train employees to offer support that solicits word-of-mouth recommendations

Tony Horton discusses the new P90X One on One Series!

Subscribe to P90X One on One:  http://www.lift-fit.com/
Recieve 50% off P90X MC2 in 2011 when you have received all 12 issues of P90X One on One Vol. 3!

P90X One on One ARX2 - August 2010 (AB RIPPER X 2)

Carl's closing speach at 2010 Summit

Tony Horton P90X Super Saturday in Lincoln, NE Oct.2, 2010

Tony Horton, celebrity trainer and creater of popular workouts such as P90X, One on One, 10-Minute Trainer and Power 90, will be in Lincoln, NE on Saturday October 2nd, 2010 for a Super Saturday event! The event will include a FREE Kids workout (grades K-8th), a FREE Super Saturday Event (Tony will be guest speaker), a FREE Shakeology Tasting Bar and a 1 1/2 hour workout for addults (18 yrs. and older)! This event will be tons of fun for everyone so you don't want to miss it. The Super Saturday event will include a giveaway for a FREE copy of P90X autographed by Tony Horton! Registration is required for each portion of the event you plan to attend and seating is limited so register early! For more details, send me an email at Kristin@Lift-Fit.com, or call me at 402.404.LIFT (5438). You can also go to our website for complete event details and registration! Hope to see you there!

Don't appologize for being happy!

I've had a busy landscaping season so far despite the 25 + inches of rain that we've had year to date (our normal annual rainfall is only about 28 inches!). Due to this being my "busy season" I have not blogged much lately and I appologize for that! With another rainy day upon us I sit in my office preparing to get caught up on my paperwork but with a "bug" in my mind. You see, sometimes there are people who you meet in life who are never happy with who you are or what you do. The main one of those people in my life is my mother, I will never please her to the day I die. Without going into much detail let's just say that I lived a pretty rocky life up until about 31 years old. I grew up in an alcoholic home, endured verbal and emotional abuse, got married at 20 to my "dream man" who turned out to have problems with drugs and alcohol, then was suprised by a divorce request one November evening. Shortly before that my father committed suicide and I had taken legal control over my mother's affairs due to her mental health and therefore incompetence. That's the short story! The past 6 years have been full of growth, rebirth, and learning about who I really am, what I'm capable of and what I strive to be but was so bogged down with darkness before that I didn't even know it existed within me to be happy and at peace with my life and excited for my future. Fast forward to today....I still will never please my mother, I get that. I don't like it but that's why I take care of her needs from a distance and see her minimally. What throws me off however is that now that I'm in a "good" place in my life, there are some people out there who choose to stay stuck in their misery and then get mad at me for being happy. WHAT????? I have gone through enough ruts, wrinkles, depressions, crisis, chaos and years of counseling to know that I do NOT need to appologize for being happy with myself and my life today. Misery loves company and I refuse to buy into people who constantly bitch and moan about how horrible they have it when they take no rational steps to make changes in their lives. Yet they like to make sarcastic comments when I publically say that I'm happy. I don't get it and I chose not to have that negativity as part of my regular life. My mother gets mad because she doesn't see me very much...well, if she was nice to me when she did see me, perhaps I'd choose to come around more often. The period following my father's death, legal action with my mother and my divorce was the lowest point in my life and I worked DARN HARD to turn things around. So YES, I do LOVE my life right now and if I want to shout it from the top of a mountain or put it on a billboard (or post it on Facebook), guess what? I'm going to say it! People....regardless of what your past is, how traumatic, stressful, abusive, whatever, YOU AND ONLY YOU HAVE THE POWER TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE AND LIVE BETTER IN THE FUTURE. Even if you've had a good life already, you have the right to continue to have a good life and be happy about that! If you don't like where you are then change it, but don't wallow in your pitty and victim role and then go out and bash others out there who are doing good and not afraid to say it. Having a big "ego" and being "errogant" is different and I am the furthest thing away from egotistical and arrogant. But being sincerely happy is a wonderful thing and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. So for today I am happy and I will continue to do things to improve my life and my future and I will NOT appologize for that. I have been through the ringer in my life and I deserve to be where I am, if that offends anyone I'm sorry. I am not perfect...that is a very dangerous word...and I will never be and don't want to be. For anyone out there struggling and wondering how your life can change and be better? My advise is to start with your attitude, decide you are going to be happy even if you don't really feel that way right now. If I can pick myself up from where I was only 7 years ago then you can do it too! You DESERVE a better life and you will have one if you put one foot in front of the other and just try everyday. Keep telling yourself you're worth it and with time things will change. Now, I'm off to do my office work and make this a great day!

2010 Beachbody Summit

2010 Beachbody Summit

My Shakeology Story...

I woke up this morning to an email saying someone saw my video on the Team Beachbody website! You see, about a month ago I got a call from someone at Team Beachbody saying the wanted to send me a video camera so I could share my success story about how Shakeology helped me. Although I was disappointed that they weren't calling to tell me I had won one of their contests, I thought this was a great opportunity to help others who may be skeptical about using Shakeology, or who may have been suffering with the same health problems I was.

About 4 years ago I got sick with a sinus infection...that's where it started. My doc. put me on an antibiotic and when I went off it, I was still sick so they put me on more. Then I got strep throat and guess what, more antibiotics! Everytime I went on more antibiotics I seemed to get sicker, got diahreah and an upset stomach. Then when I went off the antibiotics I got even sicker and had a fever and shakes. I was told I had something called C.difficile which is a very nasty bacteria that can take over the digestive system when all the good bacteria have been eliminated. It can be fatal too.

One night around 2 am, I was lying in bed shaking from a fever and was so sick to my stomach I couldn't stand it anymore so I drove myself to the ER. After a 3 day stay in the hospital (and being poked and probed in areas I don't like to remember) my doc diagnosed me with "Unspecified Colitis" due to my C.diff. infection. Now, my late father had Ulcerative Colitis for most of my life and due to this my doc said we needed to be safe and I should remain on the meds indefinately to prevent future flare ups...ugh! I was not happy with this as I believed my colitis was a direct result of the C.diff.

A few years went by and I kept popping the pills for my colitis. The C.diff finally got under control and I felt better and put back on the weight (and then some) that I had lost when I was so sick. Then my husband and I started doing P90X which led us to learning about the opportunity to work for Beachbody as Coaches and have the opportunity to make an income while helping others get healthy and fit...great! About that same time, Beachbody was in the process of releasing a brand new product called Shakeology which among many other things, was full of prebiotics and digestive enyzmes. Could this product possibly help my digestive system so I could get rid of all those pills? YES! Within a month of starting Shakeology, I was feeling pretty good and slowly backed off my pills. Now I'm completely rid of them and have had NO flare ups from my Colitis. While I still have to be VERY CAREFUL if I'm ever faced with taking an antibiotic (it still will destroy my system in a matter of days), I can rest easy knowing my digestive system is being well cared for everyday when I drink my shake!

One of the biggest concerns I hear of with Shakeology is the cost. Well for me, the cost of Shakeology is way less than what I was paying monthly for medicine and doctor visits so it has actually SAVED ME MONEY! So, if you're considering trying this product for whatever reason, digestive issues, weight loss, cholesterol problems, etc....why wait? Your health and wellness will thank you and your bills may be lower in the future if your body stays healthy INSIDE as well as out! Here's my video from the Team Beachbody site!

Why I love Beachbody...

About a year ago I was introduced to the Beachbody Business Opportunity after I had been doing P90X for about 2 months. I have always been one to run as fast as possible in the opposite direction when presented with anything involved with a "Network Marketing Company" or "Multi-Level Marketing". To me, these companies were full of pushy, aggressive people who didn't care about me but were solely focused on meeting their quota's and signing up as many people as possible to benefit themselves. That's not how I work. I have owned/operated my own landscaping company since 1996 and one of the things that has made that business successful is the personal relationship I develope with my clients. I treat my clients as though they were my friend, neighbor or family member and I am sure that my few employees also do the same. We know them by first name and we also know thier pets! The business is based on a relationship as well as solid knowlege and quality work...and it works! When I found out that Beachbody was "one of those" NWM or MLM companies I was hesitant, but I listened anyway. My husband had done a little network marketing in the past so he understood the terms and process. He looked at the comp. plan and told me this one looked different, so we set up an appointment to meet with a local coach and learn more. One of the first things our Coach told us is that he didn't want it to be "icky" and that the business was based on forming relationships with people and offering our support, help and friendship to help people be successful with thier health, fitness, and financial goals. Now that sounded like something I could possibly do since that's already how I have run my landscaping company. Relationships are key! The other key things I learned about why Beachbody was different from "those other companies" were that you don't have to buy inventory and you don't have to invest in a bunch of product or start-up cost just to begin the business. Many other MLM companies out there require hundreds to thousands of dollars just to get your foot in the door and then you have to do hundreds more every month just to get by. With Beachbody that's not the case! Start up is cheap and you don't touch any inventory or products for your clients. You simply purchase a small amount that you can use up every month and that's it! I was already spending plenty of money each month for my own supplements, protein powders and a gym membership....hundreds of dollars each month. NOW, I could spend way less than that, work out in my own home and purchase my supplements from my own company and get 25% off...not bad! The other thing is that qualified Coaches are GIVEN PAYING CUSTOMERS from the Beachbody infomercials! WHAT!!!??? Beachbody gets 15-30 THOUSAND NEW CUSTOMERS EVERY WEEK just from infomercial sales and most of those new customers are placed with Beachbody Coaches for FREE support. Those coaches then earn commission off that customer's future orders...again...not a bad deal! In fact, a really good deal! The number of customers varies throughout the year, but since Jan. 1st of this year I have received nearly 1 new customer each day GIVEN to me from Beachbody. Now, I've been in the landscaping business for 14 years and I know I don't get new customers in that fast! SO, here I am about a year after deciding to join as a Beachbody Coach and I'm thrilled! I've personally met with some of Beachbody's corporate staff including CEO Carl Daikeler, Larry Zimburg, Brett Blake and I've worked out in person with Tony Horton (P90X). I truely believe in this company's heart, mission and goals. They really do care about their customers and coach network and I see it over and over again in the things they are doing, producing and offering. If you're like me and have been scared off my other network or multi-level marketing companies, I completely understand. Heck, all "those other guys" still scare me! I would however encourage you to just look and listen to what Beachbody offers. Don't put it down or scratch it off your list until you've at least given us the time to show it to you. If it sounds like something that you would like to be involved with, GREAT! If it's not, GREAT! I'm just excited and would love the opportunity to share it with you and get your opinion. You're welcome to call or email me anytime with quesitons or if you would like to set up a time to meet in person or on the phone and talk about it. Email me at: Kristin@Lift-Fit.com or call me at: 402.404.LIFT (5438). Have a great day!

Some days are just like that...

The past 24 hours have been a little stressfull with "situations" coming up that I must deal with in respect to my mother (who I'm legal guardian for), my landscaping business, taxes and clients. Found myself unable to sleep for most of last night and spent lots of time tossing, turning and trying to figure out what I needed to get done first when my feet hit the floor this morning. About 3am I decided to pick up my trusty Blackberry and see what was happening in Facebook world, not expecting to see much. Came across a few posts from an acquaintance that seemed a little odd so I took a closer look and learned that he had recently been diagnosed with some form of Lymphoma and it was Stage 4, not good. Spent quite a bit of time thinking about it and what he and his family must be going through right now...his wife, his kids, and new baby. How someone about my same age can be diagnosed with something like that and how their world must be turned completely upside down!

Now I've had my life turned upside down many times over the years and I know I can handle whatever is thrown at me. I'm a survivor and I never let anything put out my fire...at least not for very long. Although I was very stressed last night at 3am I counted my blessings that at least for now, I am not in his shoes and knew I needed to just press forward as usual when my feet hit the floor this morning. Yep, some days are just like thats but there's always something or something else out there that is much worse than what we're going through. So I counted my blessings!

Welcome to my first blog...

It seems like everyone has a blog these days so I decided I'd better jump on the bandwagon too. I like the way they're laid out so I hope this will be yet another avenue for me to connect with anyone out there who is wanting to live a healthier life!

I invite you to visit my website which I share with my husband Pat as Independent Beachbody Coaches. We joined Beachbody doing the P90X workout in December 2008 and were so excited (and sore) from the program that we cancelled our gym membership and decided to commit to the "X"! Not long after, we learned that we could get involved with the company and become Coaches for Beachbody offering our support and guidance to thousands of people across the country who were on their own journey to live a healthier life. Plus, we would get paid for it...no brainer!

Here are some links where you can find us and learn more as I'm trying to figure out this blog thing...feel free to contact me anytime!

http://www.Lift-Fit.com
http://www.BeachbodyCoach.com/LFCoachKris
http://www.Shakeology.com/LFCoachKris
http://www.Facebook.com/KristinHain
http://www.Facebook.com/Lift.Fit
http://www.Facebook.com/TeamNebraska
and Facebook group page "Shakeology by Lift-Fit.com

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