Healthy Happy and Free

We've all had those nights. You get home from work. You're exhausted. You shower, take care of a few things and look at the clock. Wow, how did it get so late? The idea of cooking a meal at this point seems overwhelming. So out comes the frozen dinner, pop it in the microwave and you're good to go. Ahh, thank goodness for modern conveniences. But, have you ever taken the time to read the label on your beloved frozen dinner? While I'm not here to fear monger or demonize any foods, I am interested in awareness. I have those nights often! I also have busy mornings or times when I forgot to pack a lunch, etc. So consuming frozen foods in not a rare situation which gives me all the more reason to be aware of what I'm consuming. Here is the Ingredient List from Barber's Chicken Cordon Bleu stuffed Chicken: Ingredient Statement: Chicken Breast with Rib Meat (Containing Up To 18% Of A Solution of Water, Potato Starch, Salt,Modified Food Starc...

Have you ever stumbled on something on Instagram and discovered it's right near you? That's how I discovered Rocky Face Mountain Recreation Area (wow, that name is a mouthful). It's only about one hour from my house yet I had never seen it, been there, or even heard of it until I saw someone post it on Instagram!  Often times, my mom and I opt for close parks to do a quick hike on the weekend because it's just easier to stay within two hours driving distance for a regular basis. So, I was excited to find a new place nearby to explore!  We went on a Sunday afternoon and I had already gone for a run that morning so I wasn't in the mood for any intense hiking. The park only has six miles of trails as of now but they have plans to add more trails. We made a loop out of the Grindstone Trail and the Prison Camp Trail totaling close to 2 miles. The trails were rated moderate. The Prison Camp trail goes past the former site of inmate housing but I never noticed...

Summer is the perfect time for baseball games, cook outs and s'mores! S'more what? S'more marshmallows! If you're like me, the concept of homemade marshmallows sounds a bit intimidating but I can assure you, these were so simple! These marshmallows also happen to be sugar free and have gut healthy fiber! With a few ingredients, science and patience, you can have these healthier marshmallows for yourself! Ingredients: 2 Tbsp gelatin  1/4 cold water 3/4 cup granulated sweetener 1/4 cup VitaFiber IMO powder 1/4 cup water optional: marshmallow flavoring Directions: Line a loaf pan with wax paper.  In a medium bowl, combine the gelatin and cold water and let it sit.  In the meantime, combine the remaining ingredients in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until bubbling.  Remove the mixture from the stove and slowly mix it into the gelatin mixture.  Continue to mix with a hand or stand mixer for about 15 minutes.  Pour into t...

I've got a riddle for you.  What's 110 calories, packed with protein and has chocolate all over? A Built Bar!  Built bars are making waves on social media and in the WW community and fitness community alike. What's all the hype about? I didn't really have any expectations when I first tried Built bars so I was pleasantly surprised. They have no funky aftertaste, no protein taste, and are just downright tasty!  Every flavor is coated in real dark chocolate 🤤with a sweet, light filling. The interior is almost fluffy - like a cross between mallow and nougat. There's no chewiness, grittiness or stuck to your teethness.  They come in a great variety of flavors: Mint Brownie, Mocha, Coconut Chocolate Crème, Banana Chocolate Crème, Double Chocolate Mousse, Orange Chocolate Crème, Salted Caramel, Raspberry Chocolate Crème, Mint Chocolate Crème, Lemon Chocolate Crème, Vanilla Chocolate Crème, Strawberry Chocolate Crème, Blueberry Cheesec...

A-hiking we will go! Hi Ho Hi Ho a-hiking we will go.  I wanted to get together with a friend before she moves and what better way to do that than with a hike!  We changed our minds about where to go at the last minute due to the weather forecast and settled on Hanging Rock State Park in NC. The park is about 1 1/2 hours from my house so it's a pretty easy drive.  We did the Hanging Rock Trail which I've done numerous times before. It begins just off the main parking lot and is very well marked. It begins with a descent and then is uphill for the remainder with some stairs.  Upon reaching the top, there are several big rocks to get a good view. I love a good view! I enjoy this hike because I think it's enough of a challenge to break a sweat, but not too much to carry a conversation and you're rewarded with a great view.  The trail is not a loop so you simply head down the same way you came up ending up hiking just over 2.5 miles. It'...