How to Lose 100lbs… Pt. 2

Hi Everyone,

So the last time I wrote about "How to Lose 100lbs" I ended with posing the question…how bad do you want to make a change?
I hope you’ve really thought about it, because part 2 is where you’re going to put it to the test!

A few days ago, I asked Sam (Sandra) what the "hardest" part about training me was when I first started. Her answer surprised me…

I thought she was going to say something about all my "limitations" of being so overweight. I honestly thought she’d file me under lost causes after our first training session :P
Instead, Sam said that the hardest thing about training me (or I’m sure anyone, for that matter) is what I did the other 23 hours I wasn’t with her.
Hmmmm…. Made you think huh!? Lol

Lets be honest here, I remember one of my big excuses being that I had no idea what to eat!… Really?! I’m pretty sure I know what not to eat! (quote from Jimmy Mentis himself lol).
I can do exactly what I’m told for one hour of training but if I follow it up with a cheeseburger… what good is that? Add insult to injury, it’s the trainer that gets s#!t on when the client doesn’t see results.
Wow… that was harsh! But totally true ;)


If I sound like I’m on the proverbial soap box, I don’t mean to honestly! Lol Truth is I was that person for a VERY long time! Starting a new "diet" or exercise routine or whatever. I never achieved my goals because I wasn’t really ready. Ready to do EXACTLY what needed to be done to get the results I wanted.

Sam told me (and this is my big GOLD STAR!) that I was the "ideal" client because I listened to her… always!
I’m not looking for a pat on the back here lol
This time was different because I had made the choice that enough was enough and I was READY.

If it meant getting up an hour earlier to train… OK
If it meant skipping lunch with friends… OK
If it meant cooking separate meals from my family… OK
If it meant making a sacrifice now for a result later… OK

In the words of Coach Compton (Sam)… "the food will always be there" lol.
Cheesecake is not going to go extinct right before I reach my weight loss goal! Hehehe

So here’s the next step for you…. If you’ve decided that you’re really ready.
Commit to what you’re choosing to do!

If it’s the gym, boot camp, a trainer, weight watchers… whatever! DO IT!!!
If you’ve hired someone… listen to them… see what happens when you honestly give it your 100%!!! No more, no less!

Something that I heard (no clue where, forgive me if I’ve used it before lol) that really stuck with me is that… time is going to pass regardless of what you do… so why not use that time to your advantage and each day get one step closer to where you want to be.

While we’re on the subject of "goals"… I told Sam when we first met that in my wildest dreams I would want to look like the girls in a Pitbull video!!! Lol Totally still true! Matter of fact… that’s my next focus. Shaping and toning!
I’ll keep you posted on my "bootylicious" progress!!!

Til next time…

Badonkadonk hugs... Crystal :) xo

I am Beauty Strong!

Hi Everyone!

If you all haven't heard the news... BeautyStrong is now available in Canada!!! 

What is Beauty Strong?! Well it's a pre workout drink that helps me dig deep, zone in and maximize my workouts with no jitters!!! 

The first time I used BeautyStrong, I felt the difference. My training was more intense because I could push myself beyond what I was doing normally!

As I always say, if you want to know all the scientific info about the product... head to www.beautyfit.com!

 I love that BeautyStrong is pre measured and it comes in Fruit Punch and Grape!!! Mmmmm!!!

At this point in my weight loss, the loss of pounds is slower than it was in the beginning. This I know is normal, I am in the "home stretch" of my weight loss goal.
Every day at the gym or cross training outside means one step closer to where I need to be. So why not maximize my potential and time there?!?!
Having said that, I am setting new goals and thinking about the "fine tuning" of how I want my body to look and what is important to me.
I want a strong, toned body. Not just a shell that is 100lbs lighter.
With this goal comes a whole new set of challenges, changes and, I'm sure... struggles! lol

I know what I'm gearing up for.... actually I'm looking forward to it! Why?!
Cause I'm BeautySTRONG!!! ; )

Til next time...
BeautyStrong Hugs... Crystal : ) xo

Baby got... BACK!!! ; )

Hi Everyone!

So once again, time has gotten the best of me! lol

Even though I haven't been blogging weekly, that doesn't mean I haven't been in the gym doing what I need to do.

I realized that I haven't updated my weight for you all so...... here it is!
As of this past Saturday, I broke the 150lb mark and am sitting at 149.7 (hey I didn't say I broke it by much! lol) still, I'll take it!!! YAY Me!

I thought it would be nice to give you all another peek into what my training looks like... this time (as the title says) I'm training BACK!!! lol (and you all thought this was going to be a post all about BOOTY!).


Lucky for me I had a partner in crime to take photos for me :P Thanks Nancy!

So first off on "back day" is the assisted pull up machine (3sets of 12reps).
Can I just say that this thing scared the crap outta me the first time I saw it... it"s one of my faves now!

Next are seated rows (4sets of 15reps) this exercise really makes me focus on my "muscle/mind" connection (I can hear Sams' voice every time I say that lol). I really have to concentrate on the muscle group I'm working to make sure I'm doing this right! I also like that the majority of the exercises I do involve primary and secondary muscle groups. This means, basically, that I'm killing lots of birds with one stone! lol

Alternating dumbell rows (3sets of 15reps) and Lat pull downs (3sets of 15reps) are next... the pics were too blurry! lol I'd like to think it's cause I'm such a ninja when I train :P ... ya lets go with that! :)

Last in my back work out are back extensions (3sets of 20reps). As you can tell in this photo... I'm working VERY hard to hold this position as to ensure a clear photo! lol Btw... that's a 25lb plate I'm hanging onto for dear life!!!
I have always liked back extensions, I have always been "large" chested and have always had lower back pain. This exercise really helps to strengthen muscles that would otherwise be ignored.

Why train your back? It may not sound as sexy as training glutes, abs or legs but without a strong back what's going to help hold the "girls" up?!?! lol Nothing is worse than bad posture!



In weight training, as in life, it's all about balance!

Until next time...

Sexy back hugs... Crystal :) xo

What would I do without it?

Hi Everyone!

Do you ever feel like you stop to "smell the roses" only to find that almost 2 weeks have passed?! CRAZY! lol That's how I'm feeling right now.

Don't get me wrong, I'm loving life...The good, bad and everything in between!

We all have our day to day stresses with work, family etc. but I've found that I rely more on the new habits than on my old ones (thank goodness!) Lol
I was definitely an emotional eater, a bored eater... lets face it, I was just and eater in general! It's how we as a society interact. Celebrate = Cake, Sad = Ice cream... food, food and more food! Don't get me wrong here... I still LOVE food.

The new ways that I deal with things now though, are not based around eating ALL the time. When I'm feeling overwhelmed, stressed or just needing clarity, nothing helps more than kicking my own ass on the treadmill (someone who knows me just dropped on the floor in disbelief right now hahaha) OR putting the hand wraps on and punching the bag BeautyFit boot camp style!

It's a long cry from sitting down with chips or whatever else, to munch away aimlessly. I like this new "multi tasking" lifestyle. It's getting mental and physical therapy all done at once!

I'm also the type of person whose brain doesn't stop... this is especially frustrating when trying to sleep. When I can't sleep I feel like munching.... not a good combo!!!

Because BeautyFit is a line made for women... they know what we (I lol) need.
I've used BeautyBurn PM since it came onto the market and it has always been phenomenal. Having said that, in the last couple of weeks with my brain going into overdrive and finding myself getting the urge to snack out of old habits... My BeautyBurn PM has really been saving my ass! Literally!!! hehehe

Like I've said before, I am not a scientist. What I do know is that this product does away with my need to munch on crap food at night and when I finally get to bed... I'm relaxed and ready to actually sleep, not toss and turn. Ahhhhh sweet Bliss!!! ; )

Til next time...

Well rested and munchie free hugs... Crystal :) xo

Getting Back Upstairs

Hi Everyone! :)

I must say it's been too long since my last post... almost 2 weeks :(
With the 12 week challenge over, and summer vacation still going strong, I've taken the last 12 days to spend some extra time with my family and doing some much needed purging! WOW, does it feel great!!!

I have been on a mission as of late, going through every room, drawer, closet etc. and sorting, donating and throwing away all those things that are not needed in our home.
It constantly surprises me how changing my outlook on my health has affected so many other facets of my life. It means so much more to me to enjoy the simple things, time with family and friends and my new project... re vamping my house!
It hit me pretty hard one day when I looked around my house and saw the sadness of the person I was staring back at me... so, like I did about a year ago, I am taking one step at a time to make my house (which I love) reflect who I am now. Step one is the cleansing purge that is underway :).

With all the focus my family and I have been putting on the house, I have not been spending as much time at the gym. Don't take that the wrong way lol... I've still been getting cardio in 3x's a week and BeautyFit boot camp 2x's per week. Nothing to scoff at, BUT not the same level that I have been used to.
I am fully aware that now, more than ever, people are following my updates to see what I'm upto. Sandra (BeautyFit) once told me that what I do AFTER my 12 weeks is what will determine my success.

With that in mind, I headed upstairs (the weight training area) at the gym for the first time since my 12 weeks ended. Thank goodness that boot camp has lots of weight bering exercise! lol
Man!!! Did it feel good!!! :)
Once again, Sandra was right by my side, making sure I felt confident and helping me find my bearings again :)
So with a new plan and all of the amazing knowledge I have been given by Sandra (BeautyFit) and Lisa (my 12 week trainer), I begin the next stage of my journey... training solo!!! :)

I am very sure that I will have many stories etc. for you all about my journeies upstairs.... stay tuned ;)
Today was leg day... I'm going to hurt tomorrow, mind you stronger legs will definitely help with moving all those boxes and bags out of my house!!! :P

Lift with the legs Hugs... Crystal :) xo

My "Happy List"... so far!

Hi Everyone! :)

It's been a long while since I put any thought into my "list". You know the one... all things you'd like to experience in your lifetime.

It seems natural, when a big change occurs, to re evaluate and think about all those things you've always wanted to do but haven't yet.

So I say... lets stop thinking and get down to doing!!! :)

You'll notice that most of the things I want to do are very non threatening and all of them are definitely based on things I love :)

Let"s start with my #1, most dangerous and possibly insane thing that I will be doing...

Shark cage diving w/ Great Whites!!! :D

Ever since I can remember, I have been intrigued with sharks... many would say that's not enough reason to get into the water with them lol. I say... there's a cage, I'll be fine! ;)

Seriously, how cool would this be?!?! Not to mention that JAWS is one of my FAVE movies and Captain Quint reminds me of my Uncle Lewis from Newfoundland! :)

Next and definitely not scary is...

The Paris Opera House

Pretty tame in comparison lol

I can't even fathom how beautiful it would be in person.

Again, based on another fave movie (and musical) of mine... I'll probably break into tears standing in front of it. And if I'm going to be in Paris... I might as well got to Italy and Portugal!

The Mayan Ruins

No real reason, I'm just drawn to it... might be the ancient love of chocolate! ;)

"Hogwarts" Castle

Yep, I'm a big Harry Potter fan lol

Castles in general are amazing and a tour would be right up my ally!!!

Since I'm touring castles... bring on Scotland!!! Why? Well it looks beautiful and......
They have kilted men there!!! ;) Love me some men in kilts!!! LOL GRrrrrr.....

Last but absolutely not least...

Al Capones' home in Cuba

I did a project on Al Capone in high school... he was pretty fascinating! I'd like to see what his tax evasion money built! lol

Cuba is, from what I hear, beautiful and a bunch of fun. I'm not much of a drinker so the idea of the all exclusive vacay doesn't sway me at all.

What does float my boat is cuban music, dancing, all things latin and of course......

My favourite Cuban... Pitbull ;) GRrrrrrrrr..... (yes, my hubby is fully aware of my crush and he just rolls his eyes ;)

So, now that I've shared some of my "list" with you... I want to know... What's on your list? Don't have one? Now's a good time to start!!!

Until next time... Enjoy some Pitbull (make sure to dance... I am!!! :D)

Salsa dancing Hugs... Crystal :) xo

My Favorite Little Powerhouse!!!

Hi Everyone!

While, I would like to think, I'm great at keeping secrets (especially for really important things OR surprises!!! lol) there are just some things that should be shared and NOT kept to yourself.

BeautySlender is one of those things!

As I go on with my day to day, I receive messages from women asking about my weightloss and what I would recommend to others just getting started or looking to boost their results.

The truth is, as I've said many times, I am not a professional. I know what has worked for me and that is diet, exercise and BeautyFit.

I've written about how much I love BeautyFuel and BeautyBum, but (no pun intended ;) I need to rave about BeautySlender!!!

BeautySlender is my "Power House". It takes all of the guess work out of choosing a supplement to maximize my weight loss while helping to maintain my lean muscle mass ( I know!!! I never thought I'd ever have "lean muscle mass" and now that I do, I'm protecting and maintaining it! lol).

Again, I'm not a scientist, so I'll leave it to the geniuses at BeautyFit R&D to explain all the benefits...

https://www.beautyfit.com/beautyslender.html

What I do know is that this product makes me feel... slim! lol My skin and hair are benefitting from it as are my joints.

Like with BeautyBum, BeautySlender targets fattier areas that we women long to tone, but this time from the inside!!! Hips, butt and thighs are showing vast improvement thanks to my little Slender friend! :) Oh! and PMS cravings are totally manageable now! Ya, I said it!!! :P Regulated hormones not only metabolize (sp?) fat BUT also help to suppress sugar cravings.... Yay!!!!! Bonus!

I am so fortunate to have found a company that is completely dedicated to creating products and supplements for WOMEN! All women, not just athletes or fitness competitors!

I have struggled with weight for too long. Let too many opportunities pass and wasted too much time... no more. I wish this struggle on NO ONE!

If I can point anyone in the right direction to help them create a healthy lifestyle for themselves, it's the very least I can do :)

Check out www.beautyfit.com

Read up on the products and the testimonials... I have met meny of those women, they are all real!

Make the decision to do something for YOU!

Slender and hormone regulated hugs... Crystal :) xo

Family Road Trip :)

Hi All!

You guessed it! We ended up @ Whole Foods Market again lol
I really don't get sick of going here... there are so many great "new" things that I didn't notice the previous visit!!! On top of it all, we like the drive and downtown Oakville is really pretty!

I thought this purple cauliflower was so pretty! If you have a fussy eater on your hands, try something fun like this to entice them ;)

Sidney decided to grind her own almond butter while there... awesome way to get your kids (big or small lol) involved in healthy choices!

We couldn't resist the chance to stop in @ Lulu Lemon... this is Sidney sporting a scuba hoodie... that's a bunch of allowance she needs to save! lol ;)

I hope this little adventure shows that having a family day doesn't have to be expensive, well planned or revolve around fatty foods :)

Purple veggie Hugs... Crystal :) xo

Celebration!!! Gotta Burn to Earn ;)

Hi Everyone!

With the 12 week BeautyFit challenge over, it was clear from our results that we earned the chance to partake in some "contra banned" lol ;) Yes, I said earned... this is an essential lesson I have learned in the past year and definitely in the last 12 weeks!
Some may read this and scoff at the idea of "earning" a "cheat" or "special meal"... that's ok! I choose to live this way because I did a BUNCH of living (ie. eating whatever, whenever) to get to 239lbs. The amount of work I have done to get to where I am now, is not going to be undone just because I want some chocolate or sushi.
My "cheat" meals will be planned, enjoyed and followed by a couple days of extra cardio and water. Some may say this takes all the "fun" out of eating what I want... I say it makes the special food taste all that much better!!! After all, if Christmas was everyday, would it be special?!

So with our weigh in and measurements complete, the BeautyFit blog team (including Coach Sandra) went out for a great girls night!
There was no "girls gone wild" or even "girls gone moderately sassy" lol. It was a wonderful night out with dinner, drinks (one actually lol), the above mentioned contra ban and awesome conversation... that's MY kinda girls night :)

So here I am, getting ready to "dig in" to my mile high chocolate cake, chocolate cheesecake, chocolate mousse mountain of wonderful-ness (aka. contra ban)... I didn't get even halfway through it!!! lol
A year ago I could've polished it off no problem... instead, I brought the rest home for my family :)

For those wondering, my eating has not really changed at all from the 12 week challenge. I stick to my staples because they work for me. I'm in such a routine with my food, why mess with a good thing?!

Until next time...

Heavenly chocolate Hugs... Crystal :) xo

Changes... keep 'em coming!!!

Hello All :)

Told you I wasn't done blogging ;) lol

So in the spirit of transformations... (not to mention a full blown campain from Sam and Jenna ;) I took the gigantic leap and...... CUT MY HAIR!!!! Aaaahhhhhhh!!!! ;)

Here is me... faded colour :( and long, thin, lifeless hair that has lived in a ponytail for much of the last 12 weeks!



And now.... PA POWWWW!!!!!!



This seriously had me freaked out! hehehe But, one of my Bff's Vicki (www.teeze.ca) always has my back! Love my fresh colour and the cut is awesome!!! ( I totally got an "I told you so" from Jenna lol, Sam was just proud that I took the leap, with a small nudge!)

Change is always scary... but for me, at this point, it's just another step towards finding out who I am. Without change, we all stay the same. That's cool for some... but not for me... anymore ;)

New "do" hugs... Crystal :) xo

12 week final results! :)

Hi All :)

It truly is amazing how time flies...I really can't believe that 12 weeks have passed already!

I'd like to first tell you all that have messaged me with supportive words and kindness...thank you all so very much!!! I'd also like to let you all know that this is not the end of my blog! You can't get rid of me that easily! lol I am nowhere finished with my transformation!

With that being said... here we go!

It's one thing to just show up at the gym for my weigh in and measurements, it's another kind of torture to do an entire training session with Lisa first! lol
You will see (once I can get the photo to load properly) just how awesome I look after an hour with Lisa :P

So without making you wait any longer... here are the results of 12 weeks of hard work and listening to my coaches :)

(I will be adding pics asap, unfortunately they would only load upside down lol please refer to my "Shopping with Sam 101" post for my most recent photo!)

Ok, ok.... here they are.... the numbers!!!


Start 186lbs Now 165.2lbs Total -20.8lbs

BF% Start 40.6 Now 36.6% Total -4%

chest 44" 41.5" -3.5"
waist 37" 33.5" -3.5"
hips 45" 39" -6" (holy jeebus!)
mid thigh 26" 25" -1"
mid calf 17" 16" -1"
bicep 14" 13" -1"

For a grand total of 16" lost overall :)

I'm not going to lie, I was a total mess after my weigh in. Not because I was unhappy with my results, the opposite actually! The past 12 weeks have been a huge challenge not only physically but mentally also! I have pushed, pulled, sweat, cried, laughed and celebrated with the most amazing group of women! From Sam and Lisa with my training, Jenna as my partner in crime, Amanda and the countless boot camp ladies that always have time for motivating words and of course my closest friends and family... I have been completely blessed!
The idea that this particular chapter has ended is bitter sweet. My training with Lisa is finished (for now, I'll be back though lol)and now all my choices are mine alone.

I still have BeautyFit boot camp (thank goodness) and the information and tools I have been given over the last 3 months. I am now completely in charge of what happens next... I smell a whole new challenge happening! lol
What I do from this point on really is the true test to what I have learned and actually implemented.

Sam asked me later that day what I ate after I left the gym, not cause she wanted to scold me or anything, she was curious. I replied, the same things I always eat!
I though about the idea that "all bets were off" and "I have no restrictions anymore" and then I felt like that person would be a quitter... what would that say about me if the first thing I did after weigh in was to go eat junk?! That's not why I did all this!

Am I going to have a "cheat" meal... of course! lol (stay tuned for the blog) I still love food, but I love me more :)

165.2lb hugs... Crystal :) xo

Shopping with Sam 101 :)

Shopping!!! The mere thought of it puts a smile on the face of millions of women... not this one lol Unless it's shoes, purses or something that doesn't discriminate with size ;).

Clothes shopping is still a huge issue with me, most of it boils down to fear. Will things fit? Will I look stupid? What the hell do I even like? and What size am I?!
Ugh! lol
So what happens when a particular thing causes me fear and anxiety? I get called out on it and face it head on! lol

So with fear of the unknown, I venture out to stores I've only been in for friends...
Good thing Sam is with me :P

First on the list GUESS... no, don't guess! The store GUESS! lol



One of my besties is a big Guess fan, I always told her that I wanted to be small enough to fit into a Lg Tshirt there.... well..... after going straight to the shoe section out of habit, then being piled up with clothes (Sam was having WAY too much fun lol) and heading into the dressing room, not only did a lg Tshirt fit but so did jeans!!! WTH?! Needless to say Sam and I ended up in tears in the change room :P Never would I imagined that I could walk into Guess, pick up a shirt or heaven forbid, pants of all things, and actually have them FIT!!! There is a serious disturbance in the force! lmao Who is this person? Is it really me? Holy Crap!

So off to the next place (I bought the Tshirt btw)... LeChateau...
Dresses proved to be a little more challenging... to my utter surprise, a lg fit there too, however, being large chested has its own set of problems lol.
Trying to find the right "cut" or fit for a dress can be pretty tricky. Yes I have lost a large amount of weight, I have done weight training, cardio and much more... the reality is that some areas,coming from such a large size, are going to take a little longer to "respond" lets say. I'm good with it... I've made my peace with this ongoing battle and it will not get me down! lol

In the meantime, A-line dresses are the cut for me :)
Once again, a huge pile of dresses accumulated and one after another, I tried them on! The a-line was the most flattering for me and I really like the style.
Sam and I talked about something I never had thought of before, building a wardrobe!
I was used to getting a pair of dress pants and two shirts that were "ok" and switching back and forth for work. When choices are limited and you don't feel like yourself in the things you can fit into... this is the best I could do.
Now, with a brighter insight, I can shop around with much more choice and find "pieces" that I like and make a statement about who I am.... this will take some time for me but I feel so much better prepared and for once, optimistic about clothes shopping!



This dress was my (and Sams') favorite... she put this "before and after" together for me to remind me how far I've come :) We all need a little reminder now and then!
I didn't end up buying it, I might go back for it lol but with so many choices.... a girl has to keep her options open ;) lol

Guess T-Shirt hugs... Crystal :) xo

How's this for motivation?! ;)

Hi All :)

While there are many reasons to choose a healthy lifestyle, lose weight and get in shape... I thought I'd share with you some new reasons that you may not have thought of! :)

First, as an short obese person, I always had to use those HUGE bath towels after my shower... and there was not a bunch of extra left over either! Now I can easily wrap up in a regular towel! Seems like a small victory? Well $20 vs. $6 for each towel adds up to a new pair of shoes pretty darn quick!!! ;)

Next.... PANTIES!!!! Holy Moly thin people!!! You have been buying your skivvies for ridiculous deals like 10 for $25 WTHeck?!?! lol I'm gonna have gitch coming out my wazoo at prices like these!

And while I'm on the subject of clothing... REALLY?! Sales are everywhere! Tanktops 5 for $20, $15 jeans... no wonder all my friends have such huge wardrobes! lol

Groceries... while many will argue that buying fresh produce and veggies is expensive, I would counter with... try cutting out all prepackaged convenience food. It's difficult at first but like all difficult things, it's totally worth the effort. Your waistline, wallet and sodium levels will thank you! :)

Now on a bittersweet note ;) An unexpected side effect to losing weight for me is that most of my heels are too big.... meaning..... NEW SHOES!!!! lol

Hopefully this little list gives you some low cal food for thought ;) I'm sure I'll be adding more as the epiphanies come to me! lol

Cheap undies and little towel hugs... Crystal :) xo

Finally... a 5K!

Hi Everyone!

So as the title of my blog says... I FINALLY did a full 5K on the treadmill! WooooHoooo!!! :D
This was a pretty big challange for me, I've had a really big mental struggle with learning how to run and pushing (and finally pulling) myself through to finish it.

As you can see below, I made it in under 50min which was awesome. Totally stoked about that! :)
At one point I remember thinking, "I don't give a sh#% if you're tired, you're not getting off till you've done 5K" lol I think that what Jimmy means when he says I'll start pulling myself...hmmmm I may have just gotten "it".

And the whole experience would not be complete without a pic of how I looked afterwards lol
Just FYI, I was still seeing spots at this point :P hehehe My daughter asked if I put BeautyBum on my face by accident! lmao

While I know this was my challange to meet and conquor, there are many people that have helped me sooo much with just not giving up on myself. Obviously Sam and by fellow BeautyFit partner Jenna, my trainer Lisa and the beautiful and inspirational Sheryl from World Gym in Kitchener! Thank you guys so much for all your words of encouragement and knowing this was a tough one for me but kicking my ass to keep going! :)

Sweaty and Stoked hugs... Crystal :) xo

The Hardest Place to Eat Healthy!!!

Hi All! :)

I'm sure we've all been there... doing our very best to eat clean and healthy, staying focused and making the best choices possible in every situation.
Let me help you by warning you of one of the places you are just better off being prepared with your own snacks...

The Movie Theater!!! :( lol

My daughter and I (and some great girlfriends of mine) are all huge Harry Potter fans! So when we got the opportunity to be able to see ALL the Harry Potter movies on the big screen, we jumped at the chance :) Don't judge people... I love these characters and cry at the movies too lol ;)

So for 7 Mondays straight we have been seeing the entire series...



I had already begun my 12 week transformation when we started going so I was prepared to pack (and sneak in) my own snacks! lol
It wasn't until Sidney and I sat down to our first movie that I realized how horrible the movie theater food really is!!!
Even Sidney commented that there was a serious lack of healthy options lol



Poutine....really, someone sat in front of us with one and the smell nearly drove me mad! I'm not gonna lie... it smelled amazing but really look at it, it looks pretty damn gross! The smell of the salt was overwhelming and made me thirsty lol.



Popcorn with "butter", chocolate (I still love chocolate lol), candy, soda AND to make matters worse... nachos and cheese, greasy pizza and chili fries too! Your best possible hope is the fat free frozen yogurt....unless....



You're pro active and bring some goodies :)
Yep! This is what was stashed in my purse... not just my snacks, but Sidneys too... after all what kind of example is it to eat healthy but let your kids eat crap?! Don't get me wrong, treats in moderation are fine... but junk is junk! Her treat is the frozen yogurt:) We bring our own bottled water because $3/bottle is just ridiculous... and if the reason of health doesn't speak to you, think of your wallet lol. Imagine the cost of theater food... save yourself some cash AND calories... pack some goodies (I've even brought cottage cheese with berries and an ice pack lol).

If people are cool with eating poutine right beside me... they can deal with the crunch of my sugar snap peas! ;)

Expecto Patronum hugs.... Crystal :) xo (yep, told you... BIG Potter fan;) lol

Family Trip to Whole Foods :)

Hi All! :)

This past Sunday Ian (hubby), Sidney (kidlet) and I headed to Whole Foods Market in Oakville.
I was first introduced to Whole Foods by Sam when she brought me there in the spring as part of my "50lbs lost" Lulu Lemon reward road trip! (Still adore my scuba hoodie that I got that day... thought lately it's been a little warm for it ).

I was so excited to be heading there with my family because I knew they'd love it there too...



The first thing you notice when you walk in is how bright and colourful it is! Everything is so neatly stacked and arranged beautifully... it really is like edible art! :)
With all of these pre prepped foods, it's difficult to make an excuse about not being able to eat healthier, Whole Foods isn't the only place that makes healthy options like these readily available...:)



I'm a sucker for herbs and spices lol and they even have edible flowers which Sidney thought was pretty cool!



I couldn't resist taking this picture... the colours were so awesome and peppers are one of my faves!!!



This is the bath and body section, I knew Sidney would love this isle! She is obsessed with hand made soaps and scrubs lol She makes them for me all the time and is always looking for new inspiration! :)



Now on to the "main event" lol. I raved about the cafe area of the market and Ian and Sidney were both eager to check it out and get some lunch... oops I chopped Ian in half lol
The thing to remember about all this wonderful variety of food is that a)moderation is key AND b)they charge by the pound lmao Ian will never forget that now ;)



This is Sidney and her carb laden lunch! Btw... there's rice under her salad hahaha
I didn't even look at what Ian had in his container... it was just better that way! :P



This is my delicious, well balanced and portion controlled lunch ;) Mmmmmmmm.....



And finally, Sidney and I... I had to get in at least one pic ;) lol
I absolutely recommend a trip to Whole Foods market with the family... it's a great eye opener to the variety and possibilities that are out there. A healthier lifestyle doesn't have to be bland, boring and tasteless... Life is what YOU make it!!! :)




Until next time... check out the Whole Foods website www.wholefoodsmarket.com

Whole Foods Hugs... Crystal :)xo

My BeautyFit Transformation and the products I LOVE... BeautyFuel'd!!!

Hey All! :)

I hope all of you had an awesome Canada Day!!! I did!!! :)
My Canada Day began with an 8am session that I thought was going to consist of me tackling my good ole pal... the treadmill, for some improvement on my running lol
I feel very patriotic as I bust open my BeautyFuel in its red and white bottle ;)
BeautyFuel'd and trucking it to World Gym Kitchener (listening to some Pitbull, ya not Canadian but totally gets me moving!!! ;).

So, anyhoo, I get to the gym and walk in to see Sam checking in for cardio as well... I feel a challenge coming on... the price to pay by running into Sam at the gym is a trip out of your comfort zone! LOL BTW... that is NOT a bad thing :D

Instead of my date with the treadmill I end up in a twisted cardio adventure that begins with 20min of sexy Mr.Stairmill and ends with.... *insert drumroll* ...



YEP! That's me on a spin bike!!! :P hehehe

At this point I am thanking the universe for my BeautyFuel cause that is the difference between a "meh" cardio session and an "I've been ambushed by Sammi and kicked ass" cardio session!!!
True to form, not only did I keep up with 20min of steps BUT also killed it with 20min of Spin Class 101 Compton style ;) (bless her for motivating me with Pitbull lol).

Honestly ladies, if any of you have been following my blog (thank you sooo very much btw xoxo) and have not yet tried the BeautyFit products... TRY THEM! :) There is a reason that I am doing a "BeautyFit" 12 week challenge!!! This company and its philosophy have been a part of my entire weight loss journey, not just the last 8 weeks.
At my 239lb beginning, BeautyFit has been the ONLY product and training regime that I have trusted because they are REAL! They believed in me when I didn't and the products supported each step and stage as I came to it, and still are!
A big part of the BeautyFit philosophy is to pay it forward, because to change one woman is to help change a family and communities. I feel like the least I can do is pass my experiences along to hopefully help others!:)Seriously, take the time to read all the info on the beautyfit.com page... there are no BS promises, just reality and the willingness and expertise to help those that are truly wanting to make a change and help themselves!

What began as a regular trip to the gym became another barrier that has been busted! :)
What better way to start the day on our countries birthday?! I left the gym feeling accomplished and actually really liking he spin bike!!!

Happy and safe Canada Day long weekend to you all...(and Happy 4th of July to all my US friends)...

Spinning, spinning, spinning hugs... Crystal :)xo

What a WEEK!!!

Hi All!

While we're so used to starting our weeks on Sunday or Monday (depending on your mind set lol) I have been running on the mentality of one day at a time. This means that by the time I stop to look up and take inventory of what I've been doing...a few days have passed and SO much has happened!!!

First... let me fill you in on my last "Fun Friday" lol :s
Let me buffer by saying that I really DO love Lisa (awesome trainer from World Gym Kitchener) she's just a little crazy! hehehe
"Fun Friday" was an insane circuit of 13 exercises that I repeated 5 times... never mind the stop watch! lol My first "go round" was timed at 5min 36sec....to my amazement, each round I got a faster time! my last circuit was timed at.. 4min17sec!!!
HOLY MOLY!!! :D That was insanely hard but felt AMAZING to accomplish! Here I thought "WOW, what a way to end Fun Friday... great feat accomplished! Hahahahaaaa... NOT DONE YET! 10min of intervals on the elusive stair mill had me sweating like someone had turned on the faucet! Eeewwwwww! Lol Seriously, I could barely speak but when I could, I was apologizing to Lisa for sweating so much LOL.
Because I am now one of those sick individuals that likes to push their boundries and limits, I also came back for a BeautyFit Boot Camp Blitz later that same day!!! Man was that fun! It really was fun with all the ladies and the people honking at us as they drove by lol... I was just completely spent afterwards (but man did I feel like I could take on anything... as long as I didn't have to run ;)

Tuesday had me seeing Rebecca from World Gym Kitchener for my nutrition and weigh in/measurements... I always get a little stressed when it comes to this time. I know that there will be results, I know I've done exactly what needs to be done to get them... I have amazing coaches and support all around me... so when I step on the scale and Rebecca says.... your down 8lbs!!! Woohoo! That makes me feel great!!!
Here's the low down on my measurements too :)...

Chest: 42.25" -.75"
Waist: 34.75" -.25"
Hips: 40.5" -1.75"
Thigh: 25" -.5"
Calf: 16.5" -.25"
Bicep: 13" -.5"
Total inches: -4"

Total inches lost to date: -11.0" Total lbs. lost to date: -15.8lbs.

Until next time :)

170.6lb hugs... Crystal :) xo

Motivational Reading :)

Hi All :)

Just a quick note in response to all the lovely ladies asking where I find motivation...
My greatest motivation, as it is for most Moms, is my daughter!
At my starting weight of 239lbs I had zero motivation to do anything for myself, however, as parents know... you'll do anything for your child! In the sobering words of Dr.Phil (speaking to an obese father of 2)"if you're willing to die for your children, why aren't you willing to live for them?"
That is where my motivation began. I remember early on working one on one with Sammi, she would say "until you realize that you're worth the effort, do it for Sidney".
That's exactly what I did until I came to realize that I AM worth ALL this effort!
Of course I still have my family to motivate me but I now I also look to great magazines to help me see the big picture!



I remember the first time I read an "Off the Couch" issue of Oxygen magazine (they have the BEST collectors editions) and saw the amazing before and after photos and stories.
Some of these women were the same size as me, some larger. Seeing the outcome of their determination and hard work helped me to really understand that it IS possible!!!
I can't imagine how many times Sam refrained from an "I told you so" every time I would show her a new before and after story I'd found lol.

If you are reading this wanting to make a change or are needing encouragement to stick with your journey, please, please!!! do some of the following...
join a class or boot camp (like BeautyFit boot camp ;)tons of support just waiting for you!... ask around at your gym for those that have made big lifestyle changes and are willing to share their story... join an online forum like the one at oxygen magazine for support... and last but not least... email me :) crystal@crystalizedartistry.com

Til next time...

Get off the couch and give me a hug!!! ... Crystal :) xo

Hi Everyone!

While this blog is dedicated to my personal 12 week BeautyFit challenge, I absolutely had to share with you all the huge victory of my friend and fellow BeautyFit challenge participant.... Jenna!

While many of you have read my past blog about my struggles with running... I have been so inspired by Jenna who has been working her butt off and just completed her very first 5k race at the Waterloo Classic this past Sunday!!!

I was so happy to surprise her at the finish line with Sam (like we would EVER miss this!!!) the following hug in sued and many tears were shed... all happy, proud tears! Like I had just watched my "sister" take on the dragon and kick its ass!!! lol
And how cute is Sheryl(one of our fave running gurus)watching us! :)



And here she is... beautiful Jenna! With her medal and BeautyFit tank... not to mention the glow of a woman that has proven to herself that she can truly do ANYTHING!!!



In a time where each day brings me new challenges to face, I need only to look around and within to find the inspiration and motivation to move onward and upward!!!

Way to go Jenna... you did this for you!!! and in the process, inspired many others (including me!!!). Can't wait to be at the starting line with you soon!!!

Proud and Inspired hugs... Crystal:) xo

p.s. don't forget to to follow Jennas' blog also through the BeautyFit website!
http://www.beautyfit.com