P90/Fitness Update and a little Insanity

I am super excited as this week is coming to an end and I will be doing workout number 20 out of 25 for P90 level A tonight. I will be moving on to level B at the end of the first week of December and I will be posting my first month results! I know that they are going to be insane as so far my results have been on a steady drop.

I haven't just been working out five days a week, I have also really cracked down on my eating. I am amazed when I think back to my nutrition over the last few years. I am almost sick when I think about what I have done to myself. I haven't been eating total garbage because I can't. Over the years I have had problems when eating out at fast food restaurants so much so that I have been avoiding them for the most part for about four years now. I have been to the doctors and he doesn't know what it could be except something preservatives wise. I have had my gallbladder check and all came back good. I have to even be super careful when eating prepackaged food. We eat a lot of food that is from scratch and whole. If it doesn't have a label on it I am good to eat it. It has been a blessing in disguise. I have been eating about 85% clean foods and it has been helping big time. I have more energy, I feel great inside and out. Mentally and physically my body is thanking me.

On Monday I was so busy after working an overnight that I didn't get to go to bed for more than 30 minutes. I had a killer migraine and I know that was a combination of fighting off a cold, lack of water as I was horrible in the am on keeping hydrated and lack of food because I wasn't that hungry when my head hurts. I still picked my butt off the couch and pressed play on my P90 Sculpt A dvd and gave it all I had which was way more than I thought. I am also part of a Facebook group that is doing a 14 day challenge leading up to a new Shaun T workout program. Each day the coach is having us try a exercise and see when we max out. We are aiming for a minute. Last night was a plank. I did it! Just over a minute and then I did another challenge I saw on a Facebook page that I follow. Do push ups with your kid on your back. I did 4! My daughter is 46 lbs and my arms were already dead from upping my weight in my workout to 10 lb total on all exercises! 

So in the title I added "and a little insanity" well I did it! I completed an Insanity workout last week. Just one and to be honest it is one of the workouts that is to be done during the "recovery" week in the middle of the 60 day program it is still an insane workout and I finished it! I did not think I was going to and I will be 100% honest with you, I thought I was going to die at about 15 minutes into this 35 (I actually think it is 33 minutes but not sure) workout. I took a few more breaks then was given and at the 15 minute mark I actually laid down on my living room floor with the workout on pause debating if I would get back up and skip it to the cool down or just die right there. Instead I pulled myself off the floor and pressed play and continued! 

My next workout update should be my month 1 results, keep an eye out for it! 


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Disney Frozen Sing-aong Edition ~ Gift Idea

Disney has just released a great holiday gift idea for all those Frozen fans out there, Frozen Sing-along edition! My daughter LOVES Frozen and sings the songs all the time so I knew this would be a huge hit on our home. It has been on repeat almost since it arrived!

"Sing along to the Academy Award(R)-winning musical event of a generation! Experience "Frozen," the hit musical comedy from Walt Disney Animation Studios, like never before in an all-new, full-length "Sing-Along Edition!" Follow the lyrics with a bouncing Frozen snowflake. Join Anna as she sets off on an epic journey - teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and a snowman named Olaf - to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. It's pure enchantment - and full of fun for the whole family!."

This sing-along edition is available just in time for the holiday season on DVD+Digital. It features the original theatrical short "Get a Horse" featurette, "Breaking The Ice" Sing-along version of the firm. This DVD can be purchase online or at your favorite stores.

For more information or to play games, record your voice with the original soundtrack head over to the Disney website. 


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. I received the above dvd for review purpose. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Mani Monday ~ Jr Movember Mani

I know I am a day late but yesterday was crazy busy and I didn't get a chance to get on the computer. Here is A's mani for the week! She has on a sparkle that is retired (Raspberry) from my collection and then the Jr set of French Tip Bows & Little Mo Mo. Are these not the cutest wraps?!

Watch for our winter/Holiday manicures coming up over the next few weeks!


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Fitness Update ~ P90

Last Sunday I have made it officially to the half way mark in level A of P90 workout program. I told you last week that in my weigh in I have lost 4 lbs, this week when I weighed in I didn't lose anything but I also didn't gain. I am not really worried about the scale as I only have another 5lbs I would like to lose. If it takes me a couple months I am okay with that. I did do my measurements and was super pleased with those. I have lost a total of 8.5 inches total since starting this program. That is almost the same amount I lost doing Jillian Michaels Beginner Shred. I am going to try not to weigh in or measure now until I am at the end of level A which should be the end of the first week of December if all goes well.

Since I started my fitness journey I have lost a total of 16lbs and 19 inches total. I have noticed it all over. What I love the most is the extra energy I have and the ease of bending and getting back up. I love the extra endurance and strength too. I keep thinking about what I was like in the summer and compare it to how I feel and move now. I am really pleased with my progress so far!

Over the weekend we went out to do some shopping and I found Shaun T's Insanity workout program for $20 so of course who could pass that up right? Am I insane?!? I bought the program and watched the fit test. Now that is INSANE! What am I thinking?!? I am thinking about trying out the fit test and maybe a couple of the workouts in the next month or two just to see what I can do. I don't think I will do the full program on this one for awhile until I can build up more strength and make sure my knees can handle the jumps.There are a lot of jumps and running on the spot.

Have you done Insanity? I would love to hear your thoughts on it. Send me an email or comment below.



~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

HEXBUG VEX Robotics Ant ~ Holiday Gift Ideas

I know a lot of people are kicking it into high gear with their holiday shopping as we are fast approaching the Holidays. I know since the snow hit the ground the other day I am already planning what we need to get done.

Here is a really neat gift idea for a child that loves HEXBUG and loves to put things together. HEXBUG VEX Robotic kit comes with everything you need to make your very on Ant robot! 150 snap together pieces including the "brain" which is a computerized central hub for communication from the controller! How cool is that?!? VEX Robotics STEM learning through hands-on play. The kids get to construct their very own jumbo-sized robot and customize its programming.

There are two ways to interact with your robot, you can drive it manually with the remote control or choose autonomous drive mode and watch the Ant scurry around all by itself. It will mimic real-life movement. The kit is cross-compatible with other VEX robotics so the kits can have fun with more than one at a time. 
 
This kit is recommended for ages 8+ and I am sure there are lots of adults that will be happy to help the kids build a robot. There are 4 different kits available - Ant, Spider, Scarab and Strandbeast. 

Design, Build, Drive and Program with HEXBUG VEX robotic kits! 

Visit HEXBUG for more information.



~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. I received the above product in exchange for an feature. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

VTech InnoTab Max ~ Holiday Gift Idea

As the holidays are right around the corner I know many parents are wondering what they will be getting the kids this year. With so many great toys and gadgets on the market it can be really hard to choose what is right for our children. A couple years ago we surprised the kids with tablets but these were not age appropriate and before we knew it A had her tablet broken. Before it got broken we had a handful of games that were okay but A didn't seem to enjoy a lot of them and would be found playing with videos and pictures.

This holiday season we are excited to share with A a new tablet that is kid friendly and has a wide range of educational games along with websites and text to stay in touch when mom is away from home. VTech has recently introduced the new InnoTab Max. Recommended for kids aged 3-9 this tablet has a hard case that is removable for adult feel. It takes games by cartridge and also apps through android library called the Learning Lodge. 

With this fancy little tablet kids will feel like the bigger kids and mom and dad with their tech toys. The kids will learn while playing games, drawing, music, reading and more. The tablet also comes with a pen. 

The InnoTab Max is available in Blue or Pink. Visit VTech Canada for more information and shop. Free shipping to Canada with orders over $45!

 
~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. I received the above product in exchange for an editorial post. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Mani Monday ~ Movember

This week I have dedicated my mani to Movember with the Mo Mo, Black Tie Affair and a Raspberry Sparkle (retired wrap) accent nail. I love this combo! 

Don't forget to check out what The Knit Wit by Shair is wearing on her nails!


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Disney Baby: Great Games for Tiny Tots

What type of games, big or small, do you enjoy with your little one? One thing I truly adore about the toddler mind, is their ability to find humour and entertainment in truly the easiest ways.

My youngest is 18 months now. Without a doubt, his favorite post bath time tradition is to get dried off, and run off naked. He has never failed to run so fast, and laugh hysterically at the opportunity of escaping my reach without any clothing. The nights we have extra time, we enjoy the magic bubbles can make in the water.

My closet is another magical playground, hide and go seek behind clothing, sock ball fight, and lets just try on every scarf and belt they can get their hands on. Yes, it will require some clean up, but the giggles and laughter are well worth the extra work.

He loves coloring, and has recently found the love of play doh. As long as the crayons stay off the wall, and play doh doesn't end up in his tummy, it's been a good day! Those days I'm feelings enthusiastic i'll bring out the paint, but I think he needs a bit more time for that to be a less stressed event.

And what child grows up without the old trusted couch pillow fort?! Lets build the cave, then bust out like the hulk and laugh hysterically. Never fails!!

Here is this month's Newsletter from Disney Baby...

THE POWER OF PLAY:

GREAT GAMES FOR TINY TOTS

We all know that goofing off is good for you – as adults, we rely on moments of lightness to de-stress and create balance in our lives. For babies, play is an important part of development: babies push, press pull and pry, squeeze, squish and sniff all in an effort to understand the complex world around them. Disney Baby has some great ideas to put your little learner on the road to discovery and to help you harness the power of play.

Find the fun

Often, when parents think play they turn to toys, but objects aren’t the only way to stimulate your little one. Learn to find the fun in everyday interactions. Whether it’s splashing around in a tiny tub, playing peek-a-boo over the changing pad or giving baby a bowl to bang on while you’re cooking, there are plenty of easy ways to encourage creativity and engage your baby in a little monkey business.

Sing songs

Playing with your voice is a great way to help babies find theirs, so let go of your inhibitions and embrace your inner diva. Try making silly sounds, experimenting with volume and pitch or incorporating dance and movement to encourage different reactions in your wee one. If you’re too shy to sing, introduce your baby to different sound making objects, like these organic Minnie and Tigger plush toys, instead.

Free your fabrics

A grown up closet is a veritable treasure trove for little eyes and fingers. Pull out some of your brightest, silkiest and softest numbers and let baby explore new textures and colours. Who knows, maybe your little one will have as much fun in your closet as you do!

Embrace your inner toy

To your baby, you are the ultimate plaything. Lay down a splat mat, and get down to your little one’s level to let them engage with you. Or talk to your tot to improve language skills, and mimic actions and copy sounds to introduce baby to the art of conversation.  Not only is it good for baby’s development, but getting in on the game ensures that you’ll have fun at playtime too!

No matter which tactic you try, make sure you know when to take a breather. Remember that your baby’s attention span will vary depending on age, mood and temperament, and that babies have different thresholds for stimulation. Listen to your little ones: if they seem tired or fussy, give them a rest – it’ll make playing more enjoyable for both of you.

~End

Take a minute to enter this month's giveaway, valued at over $70. Disney baby is giving you the chance to win, a set of two swaddling blankets, a super bib, and a splat mat. In addition they are offering an adorable organic plush from Two Blue Ducks. To win, you MUST enter a comment in the BLOG post, and Like Genuine Jenn on facebook. Available for Canadian Residents ONLY. Thank you, and GOOD LUCK!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Cheryl. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Tony Horton's P90 Workout

After finishing up Jillian Michaels Beginner Shred I decided I would really kick it up a notch and get even more serious about my weight loss journey. Tony Horton is known for his P90X workout program and I have heard wonderful results from it. I wasn't sure I was ready for that or Shaun T's Insanity but I did think I could handle Tony Horton's newest program P90. I ordered through my Beachbody coach Stephanie and stalked the UPS tracking until it arrived at my house about a week after ordering.

I officially started the P90 program on November 1st and made my own schedule to work with my work schedule. The program comes with two different schedules that you can use depending on if you are looking to build muscle or burn fat. With each program you will use all of the workouts that are for that level but depending on the type of schedule you do you will end up with either more sculpting or cardio workouts in the week. I decided to do an even amount of both with one extra cardio (Saturday Special) at the end of each week. I have also set up five weeks for each level instead of four but in the end I have one extra workout day in my schedule. 

My husband decided to do the workout program along with me and we are just finishing up week two! It has been a fabulous workout so far and I just wonder what our next level (B) will be like. We have not watched the workouts yet but will take some time in week five to preview them.

This program is a beginner workout for people who are just getting into working out, back into working out after gaining weight, surgery, having baby etc. Don't think this is an easy workout though. It is a intense training for sure! Tony has really kicked my behind in the last two weeks more than Jillian did in the Beginner Shred. I really love the Sweat A workout and not a huge fan of Sculpt A because Tony kills me with lunges and squats until my legs burn so bad I think I will fall to the floor and never get up again. I know it is a good thing because I am burning fat but I am not a fan on it while I am doing it. The cardio is a mix of side lunges, marital arts, and so much more. I find it a lot of fun that I almost forget I am working out until we hit the ab ripper workout at the end.

I took my measurements and before pictures before starting and was planning on not checking my weight until the end of level A but I will admit to caving and jumping on the scale after being on the program for 9 days. I am super excited to say I am down 4lbs. I wont be measuring myself until Sunday and then I will do it again at the end of level A. I will also take photos as I find they are really helpful to see what you have accomplished in that time.

I have also really focused on eating clean and eating frequently to fuel my body. I am drinking 70-90oz a day of water. I really do believe to get the really good results improving eating habits is a must.  Workouts and diet really do go hand in hand.


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

3 Ingredient Protein Pancakes

Since one of the biggest issues with losing weight and keeping it off is nutrition I have been looking for easy, tasty and healthy recipes from Breakfast to Dinner along with great low calorie snacks. I am hoping to share a lot of my recipes that I use while changing my eating habits for a healthy lifestyle. 

I have been posting my tasty dishes on Instagram - GenuineJenn81 (do we follow each other? If not give a shout out and I will follow you back).

What can you make with the above 3 ingredients? That's right Protein Pancakes! Don't they look tasty? They smelled great and tasted wonderful. A healthy, filling breakfast that is quick and easy to make. 
 

3 Ingredient Protein Pancakes

Ingredients: 

1 large egg
1 scoop of protein powder (I used chocolate)
1 medium banana

Directions: 

Mash banana, add egg and protein powder mix together well. Cook in heated frying pan until bubbles show on top of pancake. Flip and cook second side. This should make two large pancakes.

So very tasty and healthy. You can top with fruit or whatever you wish to but remember what you use on top should be clean and healthy to keep these pancakes healthy.


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Jillian Michaels Beginner Shred Workout DVD Review

I have officially finished my first workout program at home! I am super excited to say that as I have really never been a workout person. I have done the odd yoga or kickboxing workout but nothing on a continual basis and this I started and completed! It took me a couple weeks longer than it should have as I wasn't able to work out 5 days a week with 2 rest days on the weekends. My work schedule is shift work overnights so I have had to make a workout schedule around my nights on.

Jillian Michaels Beginner Shred is a new at home workout DVD that was release the beginning of September 2014. I got it on release day and started right away. I will be honest that the first couple times through level one I was really worked to my max. I struggled to get through it and felt the workout throughout my body. I also found that I had a lot of pain in my left knee and quadriceps while doing the lunges and squats. Usually I would throw in the towel at the first signs of pain but I didn't do it. Instead I went to Google and looked up knee pain while doing squats and found a great video on avoiding this pain. I wasn't doing my squats right and so I ended up with the pain. Once I watched how to do them correctly the pain went away and I continued on with the workouts. Remember form is SUPER important! If you need to pause the DVD and check your form or start the dvd again take the time to do it so you don't end up injuring yourself.

Level 1 was tough as I was just starting out and had some extra weight on my lower half that really slowed me down. I also started with very little upper body strength and Jillian makes you do push ups! I am happy that this workout program is low impact. It is great when you have lower back or knee issues. I did find one of the stretches at the end of level 1 was really hard for me to do as I found my belly was in the way and I had a hard time reaching back for my leg. Jillian has you doing two moves combined for most exercises to work more than one muscle group at a time.

Level 2 steps it up a notch, it is still low impact but you are adding more advanced moves. Jillian introduces super sets which is where you will hold a move lower body and do two different upper body workouts. In all the levels there is a modifier and an advance girl that you can follow along with. Jillian does more talking and pointing out what to do or not do then doing the workout with you. I didn't mind this but I know some people would rather her workout the whole time.

Level 3 will push you even harder but will get you ready for other Jillian workouts that are more advanced. When I started level 3 I was finding it really fast and hard to keep up but once I got doing it more I was keeping good pace with Jillian and the girls.

I really enjoyed working out with Jillian Michaels Beginner Shred. I did find it hard to do 10 days of each level without a variety. I did do a few other workouts in here and then when I wasn't feeling well or was too tired. I did find I have more energy and can make it through the 20 minute workouts much easier than I did when I first started the program.

One thing I did find annoying was that you have to watch the intro each time you start up the dvd. I couldn't figure out how to skip to the menu. I would normally start up the dvd and then go get ready for my workout, getting dressed or shoes, mat etc. I love that you don't need much for these workouts just a mat and some dumbbells. Jillian gives you a softer side of herself but she is still hard on you to keep you motivated.

I know you are likely dying to know my results so here they are.......... I am down 12 lbs and 10.5 inches in total! I started out with about 20lbs to lose and I really wanted to tightened up all the flabby spots especially my stomach, legs and arms. I lost 1/2 inch on each thigh and nothing on my arms but I did gain muscle and toned both places. I took before and after photos but I am not comfortable posting them on my blog just yet. I will try and posts some soon as I can bring my self to sharing them.

If you are looking for a workout that will ease you into it this is a great program to start with. If you are new to working out, just had a baby or surgery or just out of shape it is going to push you to your max but it would kill you either. I found it very helpful and really set me up for my next program which is the new P90 by Tony Horton. Keep an eye out for my post about getting started on P90!  

~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Wordless Wednesday ~ Halloween Fun

The kids had a blast and the weather held out for us to do some Trick or Treating this year. The Darth Vader voice changer mask was a hit with all the adults and kids on our trip around the neighborhood. P was asked to talk more at a bunch of houses as they wanted to hear the mask again. A was a "Monster High" Witch as she made a new Monster High. They had a lot of fun and got a treat bag full of candy. I hope everyone had a fabulous Halloween!


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Mani Monday ~ Everything Nice

I have been waiting to try out the new sparkle wraps by Jamberry Nails and they don't disappoint. I am in love with them! This mani is called Everything Nice.

Don't forget to check out Shari's Mani Mondays on The Knit Wit by Shair.


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More