Honestly, I started out with the best of intentions: create a fantabulous recipe, take beautiful photos (workin’ on that one!) and post a great review for Oh!Nuts.

But it didn’t work out that way – not like I had planned, anyway.

The nuts arrived. I was excited. I took photos.

Then I started fantasizing about a unique recipe.

I asked myself the following questions:

Should I bake it?
Should it be in smoothie form?
Should I try to make it raw, or mostly raw?

Cookies?

Muffins?

Cake?

All those are so ordinary. Mundane. To be expected.

So, I thought I’d open the bag and taste ‘em and go from there.

Um, boy did I go.

Each day that passed by, I’d nibble a few more.

“These taste like cinnamon rolls!” I told my husband.

When I convinced him to taste ‘em, he thought the same thing!

“Hmmmm….” I thought. I can’t make cinnamon rolls – they already taste like cinnamon rolls!

And, of course, one day led to the next, the delicious cinnamon pecans (mysteriously) disappearing.

Until… slowly, but surely, they were almost all gone.

Yep, folks, almost the entire pound of pecans is now tucked away in my hips. *giggles*

I still have enough to make a recipe.

But honestly, I can’t think of a better way to eat ‘em than straight from the bag!

And, in the end…. cookies it was.

Cinnamon Pecan Coconut Oatmeal Cookies

(Based on Averie’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies)

Ingredients:

1. 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
2. 1 cup brown sugar
3. 1/2 cup white sugar
4. 1 egg (I used a large brown one.)
5. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
6. 1 teaspoon cinnamon (Averie’s recipe called for two but I cut it in half since I added cinnamon pecans from Oh!Nuts.)
7. 1 cup flour (I used self-rising ‘cause that’s what I had on hand.)
8. 1.5 cup old-fashioned oats
9. 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
10. 1 cup chopped cinnamon pecans (I used Oh!Nuts)

Directions:

1. Melt butter.

2. In a big bowl, add brown and white sugar to melted butter and stir. Allow to cool to room temp.

3. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, flour, and oats. Stir.

4. Add coconut flakes and cinnamon pecans (or other add-ins like raisins, etc.)

5. If you have time, refrigerate dough (I’m not sure I’d do this next time – I’ll explain below.)

6. Drop spoonsful of dough on your cookie sheet.

7. I have a gas oven that really gets hot so I adjusted Averie’s suggestion of 325 to under 300 so my cookies wouldn’t burn. I also had to put my cookies on the very top rack. Depending on your oven, bake 10-12 minutes or so – or less until they reach your desired finished product. If you like them soft and chewy, bake less. If you want a crunchier cookie with that crunchy bottom, leave in the oven a little longer.

8. I cooled my cookies on a rack.

These cookies turned out a little crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. (My first batch. Details below. )

FYI NOTE: I baked the first batch and then got sidetracked so I decided to put the dough back in the fridge and come back to finish baking later yesterday. When I came back, my dough was too dry and hard, so I ended up having to improvise. I had company over and after my sweet cousin, Krista, added 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup peanut butter…. all was well in my cookie world!

The rest of the batch turned out really moist and chewy and delicious. Yum-O!

Depending on how big you make your cookies – and how much raw cookie dough you nibble on! – you’ll end up with a couple dozen cookies or so, give or take a few.  

She’s quite the little chef and baker!

Thank you Oh!Nuts – and Krista!

FTC Disclaimer: Oh!Nuts sent a sample of the nuts mentioned in this review. They did not pay me to write this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Hi, y’all!

This is just a quick reminder to let you know that 

there are less than 48 hours left to pick up

a copy of “Simply Raw” and “Raw for Life” for

50% OFF the regular price (if you haven’t already)

and get the $161.20 in bonuses.

If you haven’t seen the trailer yet make sure to

check it out here:

==> http://www.rawfor30days.com/cmd.php?Clk=4563541

After tonight this huge discount is gone!

Also, just so you know the $161.20 in bonuses are

REAL bonuses

You can actually look them up on the individual

expert’s websites and see them selling for

the exact prices shown!

You basically get $191.15 of products for $15…

Go here right now to see all the details and get

your copy of the film:

==> http://www.rawfor30days.com/cmd.php?Clk=4563541

To your health,

Michele Miller

aka Raw Juice Girl

P.S. – This special half off special ends Friday at 

midnight! If you’d like to get this revolutionary film 

that so many people are raving about and save 50%, 

then go here now:

==> http://www.rawfor30days.com/cmd.php?Clk=4563541

P.P.S. – Remember, 20% of your net purchase goes

to support a ballot initiative to get GMO’s labeled

in the state of California (setting a great precedent

for the rest of the country)

Hi, ‘yall!

How’s the holiday season treating you? Hope you’re taking breathers here and there (maybe even sneaking in a raw juice or smoothie!) and taking care of yourself as you take care of everyone else and prepare for all the celebrations.

That said, www.E3Live.com has decided to share some holiday cheer and pass on a 20% off discount to us. How cool is that?!

I mentioned E3Live a lot during one of my 30-day raw juice fasts (that was documented) and I’ve reviewed the following products and hosted a RAWsome giveaway for them.

(Click following links to read product reviews.)

Klamath Lake Blue-Green Algae (E3Live) Review

E3Live Review: BrainOn 

Convinced yet? What better time than the holidays to spend a little cash on yourself and/or loved ones and invest in your health. Bring in the new year with a positive, healthy attitude.

Give yourself a gift….

Enter coupon code: HOLIDAY2011 during online checkout at www.e3live.com, or mention for call-in orders

Offer valid until midnight EST on January 2nd, 2012
Unlimited use of this coupon during offer period
Offer not valid on Soaps; Patented Stem Cell Enhancer; Cell-nique super green drinks; or items already on sale or on quantity discount; or shipping/handling/GST costs
Enter coupon code: HOLIDAY2011 during online checkout at www.e3live.com or mention for call-in orders

FTC Disclaimer: I was not paid to write this post. There is, however, affiliate links included in this post. I will earn a small commission from any sales that are generated, which I greatly appreciate because it helps keep this site online. Thanks!

“…diabetes is a pandemic situation with over 246 million people suffering worldwide.”

I used to be on of them!

Hi, y’all!

Hope your December is going well. You aren’t stressed, are you? Remember, take time to slow down, breathe, have a cup of hot tea or a smoothie – or even just meditate for a few short minutes.

Our health is precious. Life is short enough as it is. We simply MUST make the most of it!

If you have time, I’d like you to take the time today to check out the 50% off savings that will make a huge impact on your health.

With a new year upon us, there’s never a better time like the present to dedicate ourselves to living healthier, more fuller lives!

Raw foods, juices, and smoothies have literally been lifesavers for me. And that’s why I can wholeheartedly promote the Raw for Thirty DVDs.

When I watched this set of films, I was in awe.

I mean, I saw myself in those people who were obese, discouraged, battling such illness.

I couldn’t believe it. If I would have had something like that to watch and learn from and be inspired by when I was going through those things, I’d have jumped at it!

Take this chance to check out the raw foods films I’m tell you about. It’s worth your time.

If you’ve been trying to decide on gifts to buy, these films would make RAWsome presents for those you love.

Me at over 300 pounds!

Me recently, around 165 pounds!

The way we change and grow is by educating ourselves and being inspired and then turning around and encouraging and inspiring others.

Do this for yourself. Do it for those you love.

Time is precious but so is your life and health. Give yourself and those you love the gift of life and health. Invest in these films. Buy several. At 50% off, you can’t go wrong!

Enjoy the savings! I love you all!

And, if you’re still not convinced… the following information and statistics should help.

What do the actor Woody Harrelson, Rev. Michael Beckwith from “The Secret,” Morgan Spurlock from “Super Size Me,” Dr. Gabriel Cousens and raw food guru David Wolfe all have in common?

They’re all featured in a powerful documentary film the will forever change the way you think about your health (just watching the trailer will leave you stunned).

If you haven’t yet seen this film there’s something really special going on this week that I think you should check out.

You can see the trailer for the film and see what’s going on here:

http://www.rawfor30days.com/cmd.php?Clk=4559246

Whether you’re in perfect health or suffering with an illness like diabetes or any other health issue I highly recommend you watch this film.

It’s a powerful, emotional and educational film that is a must see for anyone who cares about their health.

The films shows how important the food we eat is and how all it takes is 30 days to make a huge life altering shift in your health.

And for 5 days only the producers of the film are giving away this film entitled “Simply Raw: Reversing Diabetes in 30 Days” and its companion “Raw for Life” 2 disc DVD set for 50% OFF the regular price…

All in an effort to raise awareness and raise funds for a ballot initiative to have all GMO (Genetically Modified Foods) labeled in California.

Why is it so important to get this passed in California?

Because it will set a precedent for the rest of the country to label GMO foods (something that much of the rest of the world is already doing).

Currently GMO foods are NOT labeled in the United States (or Canada)…even though they are labeled and even banned in many parts of the world.

http://www.rawfor30days.com/cmd.php?Clk=4559246

But back to the film itself and how it will impact YOU…

If you are dealing with any health challenge, or you want to get into the best shape of your life, or you just want to feel vibrant with energy and have glowing skin…

Then you need to check out the trailer for this film and pick up a copy for yourself. 

http://www.rawfor30days.com/cmd.php?Clk=4559246

The producers of the film (Alex and Nick Ortner – also known for their film “The Tapping Solution”) are also giving away a laundry list of amazing bonuses when you pick up a copy before this Friday.

So take a minute to watch the trailer for this amazing film by visiting the site below.

And remember, diabetes is a pandemic situation with over 246 million people suffering worldwide. If you or anyone you know is dealing with diabetes make sure that they watch this film. It just may save their life…

Hugs,

Michele Miller

aka Raw Juice Girl

P.S. – The 50% OFF is a ridiculously low price for the film.  With the bonuses they’ve added on it’s almost a no brainer.

It shows how passionate they are about getting this information out to the public. Make sure to check it out:

http://www.rawfor30days.com/cmd.php?Clk=4559246

FTC Disclaimer: There are affiliate links in this post. This is a promotion. I was not paid to write this. I will receive small commissions from the sales.

Hi, y’all!

It was a beautiful, sunny day here today. Did you have sunshine where you live?

Hope you’ve been enjoying my Nutella and thrift store shopping talk.

I heart shopping at thrift stores. Some call me eclectic; some call me eccentric; others call me thrifty or frugal. But I just enjoy finding those treasures folks toss away.

Sometimes those treasures are passed down. A dear friend of mine gave me the following decorative plates. Actually, she’s pretty much my adopted grandmother (nothing legal – I just adopted her and claim her!).

I picked up the little stands at a thrift store (of course!) to display them and thought I’d share them with you.

The first one is white and I love its shape, and the dainty blue floral pattern.

Up close

She also gave me a decorative plate with a Fall design on it. I brought it out to display once the leaves started changing colors outside. I enjoy its beauty as well.

And up close

Thank you to my “adopted” grandmother for her generosity and also to Wayfair.com for allowing me to work on an upcoming promotion for them (more about that in the near future!).

But you’ll definitely want to check out the decorative plates they have available over there.  

What about you? Do you like decorative plates? Do you hang them on the wall or display them on a shelf or table? Do you have any heirloom pieces or do you buy yours new or at thrift stores? Do tell!

Hi, y’all!

Hope you enjoyed my oats in a Nutella jar recipe. I know I sure did! Yum-O!

I heart Nutella.

So, the other night I was craving a little something-something and I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. Then, it hit me: sweet, juicy, crunchy apple sliced up with a healthy dose of Nutella smeared over it.

Mmmmmm…. mmmm… GOOD!

It hit the spot just right and I was a happy gal.

You’ll see that delicious creation below, but let’s catch up first…

I’m sure y’all are busy preparing for the holidays. Which one do you celebrate? Or, do you celebrate more than one due to family preferences?

I don’t plan on going “all out” myself.

Just for fun, I thought I’d share some of my recent thrift store finds with you. It’s so exciting! One of my all-time favorite things to do is find a good bargain.

Rummaging through thrift stores, yard sales, and flea markets is SO much fun. A lot of times, I’ll find dishes like my grandma had when I was a child. The nostalgia and memories second-hand items bring up for me are priceless.

I love it.

But first, I want to show you that apples and Nutella snack I was carrying on about….

Just chop an apple, drizzle desired amount of Nutella on top, and enjoy!

And… on to the thrift store finds.

All the cute little kitchen gadgets and the beautiful creamer pourer below were just 25 cents each (!!!!!) with the exception of the CorningWare casserole dish and serving cradle at the very end of this post – you won’t believe the deal I got on them! 

I love this little blue darlin’ for cream or syrup or gravy or whatever you want to put in and pour out.  

I adore me some honey and syrup and now I have a cute little “condiment helper” to help me get them in my mouth. *giggles*

Tea is one of my all-time favorite things (ever!) and I didn’t have a tea strainer. Yep, it was a quarter as well.

Always in need of something to scoop with. It amazes me that this stuff was all still nicely packaged – just like brand-new!

Yep, I love kitchen gadgets.

Aaaaahhhhhh, and the beauty you’ve been waiting for. It took a while for these two to find each other. I picked up the casserole dish (CorningWare!) for just a dollar at a thrift store. Amazing.

That was a few months ago. I’ve used it tons but it wasn’t until very recently that I found the serving cradle at the GoodWill I frequent.

And… it was only a dollar! So, for two bucks, I have a nice serving piece that can go from oven to table – without leaving burn marks behind.

I find lots of treasures, trust me!  

Buying used items is one way I find to be more eco-friendly in my day-to-day living.

I’ve loved thrift stores, yard sales, and flea markets since I was a small child. I’m a big believer in that old saying “One (wo)man’s trash is another (wo)man’s treasure!” – I live by that, totally.

What about you? Do you pick up odds and ends at thrift stores? Would you like me to share more of my thrift store finds? There are LOTS!

FTC Disclaimer: I bought the items mentioned in this post with my own money. However, I have linked to Amazon (affiliate links) so if you choose to make a purchase once you arrive, I will receive a small commission. That only helps keep this site active. Thanks! 

FTC Disclaimer: Although I love Nutella and am naming their brand, I always buy it with my own money and have never been sent any to review. I was not paid to write this post. I just wanted to share one of my favorite breakfasts with y’all, my friends. I did, however, include Amazon affiliate links to the product. If you click through those links and purchase anything, you’ll be helping Raw Juice Girl keep blogging. Thanks! 

Hi, y’all!

How’ve you been?

Did the title make you look twice? Hope so!

OIANJ: Oats In A Nutella Jar

Oh. So. Good!

I had a Nutella jar that was pretty much scraped clean. But there was enough to enjoy a jar of hot oatmeal that would melt all the yummy leftovers so they could be enjoyed. YUM!

I used whole grain oats but you could use whatever you have on hand or whatever brand/type you prefer.

Hazelnuts and the flavor stole my heart when I was a child. I absolutely love them! And Nutella? Oh, I try to be a good girl but it’s just so, so good!

Amazingly, it’s just hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and milk. How can anyone go wrong with those ingredients, eh?

And according to the label, you don’t have to worry about any preservatives or ingredients you can’t pronounce! It’s just those three simple ingredients and they create pure paradise for your mouth. I actually love eating it straight off the smooth spoon and savor every single taste!

Oats In A Nutella Jar Recipe

Ingredients:

* whole grain oatmeal flakes (prepare according to directions on can)

* honey (as much as you want or other sweetener of your choice)

* cinnamon, optional (to taste)

* milk of choice (depending on your proportion size, according to directions)

* peanut butter (1 – 2 spoonfuls)

* butter, 1-2 tablespoons (real)

* nearly empty Nutella jar

Directions:

1. Prepare oatmeal according to directions on can (1/3 cup, 1/2 cup, 3/4 cup, etc., depending on your appetite)

2. Once you’ve decided on the proportion size, dump your oatmeal, milk, butter, honey, cinnamon, peanut butter, and butter into sauce pan.

3. Stir and let cook.

4. Once it’s done, you can cover with a lid and remove from heat, just letting it “steep” for a couple of minutes – or not.

5. Pour hot oatmeal mixture in Nutella jar, stir, and enjoy!

This is an energizing, filling breakfast for me.

Do you heart Nutella as much as I do? Do you love oatmeal? This is SUCH a delicious combination. I know I’ll be having it again as soon as that next Nutella jar is nearly empty!

FTC Disclaimer: I received the products mentioned in this post free of charge. I did not buy them. I was not paid to write this post or a review. There are affiliate links in this post for Navitas Naturals products. If you purchase anything through these links, I will receive a small commission and you will help keep Raw Juice Girl blogging.

First, a huge thank-you to Navitas Naturals for their generosity in sending me these goodies!

Hi, y’all!

How’ve ya been? Have you been keeping warm near a woodstove, curled up with a lovely novel or have you been so busy you haven’t had time to catch your breath?

(I’m currently reading The Rescue by Nicholas Sparks and it’s a page turner!)

Hopefully, you’re taking care of yourself!

On to what Navitas Naturals packaged up for me…

A closer look at what Navitas Naturals sent….

I received a bag of Navitas Naturals Flaxseed Powder .

I blogged about the health benefits of flax seeds here.

And…

Chia seeds. I heart chia seeds! I love chuggin’ chia! (The contest mentioned in that post is no longer open.)

And some power snacks! Blueberry Hemp Superfood and Cacao Goji Power Snacks. Rawesome!

Nutrition Information – Cacao Goji Super Food Power Snack

Ingredients: date paste, chia seeds, raisins, sesame seeds, cacao powder, goji berry powder, sunflower seeds, maca powder, camu camu powder, sunflower meal,lucuma powder

Allergen Information: Packaged in a facility that also handles tree nuts

Product of U.S.A.

I immediately went for this one. Cacao = chocolate – and I’m a chocolate kind of gal! I also love goji berries so I knew this would be a winning combination. And I was right! YUM!

Chocolatey.

Chewy.

Crunchy.

Fruity.

Filling.

Delish!

Definitely two thumbs up on these healthful, energizing snacks!

What about you? Have you tried Navitas Naturals products? Do you love learning about new, healthy snacks or do you just grab whatever is on hand at the time and keep going? Are you a chocolate lover? What are you currently reading?

FTC Disclaimer: The product mentioned in this post is being provided to the winner by Celestial Seasonings. The link to Amazon is an affiliate link. If you order anything through that link, I’ll receive a commission and you will help keep Raw Juice Girl blogging, reviewing, and hosting giveaways.

Hi, y’all!

It’s winner time!

Thanks so much to all who entered the Celestial Seasonings Wellness Kit Giveaway.

I’m so glad you enjoyed the review and it was pure awesomeness to read which products you’d like to try or love most – and why.

But you know how it goes. Only one entry can be chosen to receive a Celestial Seasonings Wellness Kit.

I always depend on Mr. Random (random.org) for selecting a winner. And the winning number is…

Comment #15 belongs to Nancy. Congrats, Nancy!

In Nancy’s first comment, she mentioned she’d like to try African orange mango red tea. Enjoy your wellness kit!

And thank you so much once again to Celestial Seasonings for being so generous with us and for working so hard to bring us such an amazing company with awesome, healthy products!

FTC Disclaimer: The items mentioned below were sent to me free of charge. I did not pay for them. I have not been paid to write this review. Link to Amazon is an affiliate link. If you purchase anything through that link, I will receive a commission. Feel free to if you want to help keep this blog rollin’!

Now, on to the topic at hand…

The very kind folks at Celestial Seasonings are helping me get a head-start on taking care of myself this winter. That’s right. They’ve been generous enough to send me a Celestial Seasonings Wellness Kit!

I adore Celestial Seasonings. In fact, one of my very first experiences with being wowed by the power of herbs was when I was suffering from horrific migraines and stress and my mom gave me some Celestial Seasonings Tension Tamer.

It was like a spiritual experience. From head to toe, I felt a calmness sweep throughout me and it was as if that magical cup of tea had whisked away my migraine pain and stress. From that moment, I was hooked and have enjoyed a huge variety of Celestial Seasonings tea over the years.

If you’ve read any of my in-depth reviews, you know I love to dig into the past and learn all about the history behind the company of products I review, as well as the people who started it all.

About Celestial Seasonings

I got more than I bargained for when I studied up on this company. Come to find out, in 1968 a few folks started harvesting herbs in the Colorado Mountains – Aspen, to be exact. These folks are: Mo and Peggy Siegel, Wyck Hay, and Lucinda Ziesing.

You just have to be in awe when you find out how the name Celestial Seasonings came to be…

Fun Fact!

The company’s name is actually Lucinda Ziesing’s nickname. Yes! In 1969, Celestial Seasonings evolved because of Lucinda’s nickname.

How cool is that, huh?!

(For more Celestial Seasonings facts, check out their timeline here.)

When 1970 rolled around, production was booming, with a total of six employees, in a Boulder barn owned by Michael Dominick.

By 1972, Celestial Seasonings was incorporated, the company had been purchasing herbs worldwide, moved into a larger facility, new teas were being created….

Over the 70’s, the company expanded internationally.

Throughout the 80’s and 90’s, a few big things happened:

1. Kraft, Inc. purchased Celestial Seasonings.
2. Mo Siegel came and went – first, retiring from the company to travel the world doing humanitarian work and then returning as CEO in 1991.
3. “Celestial Seasonings management and Vestar Capital Partners bought company from Kraft through leveraged buyout.”

Today Celestial Seasonings continues to grow, expand, create new teas and products and I can’t wait to see what is to come from this amazing company!

So, you can imagine how I was pleasantly surprised when this super cool packaged arrived at my doorstep!

About the Book

I love alternative medicine. I’ve been fascinated by herbs and their uses for many years now and I must say, this is just one of the best books to have as your go-to guide for herbal remedies!

Herbs for Health and Happiness: All You Need to Know, written by Mo Siegel and Nancy Burke, this book is fun and easy to use. It is divided up in to sections that will make it easy for you to research ailments and which herbs you need to know to find happiness through herbs.

The holidays are coming up so it would make a great gift for any friends or family who are interested in herbal healing, teas, or their health in general.

I’m already using this fantabulous book as one of my references for an upcoming article to be published in the new year!

Let me guess… you’d LOVE to have a Celestial Seasonings Wellness Kit of your own? You can! Well, ONE of you can – because we’re having a giveaway!

In the past, I’ve posted the giveaways separately than the reviews and have given you up to 20 ways to enter.

Over time, it seems your enthusiasm over all the various ways to enter has turned into your being overwhelmed at the long list of ways to enter – SO things are going to change around here!

To make things much easier – and more fun! – for you, there’ll be a handful of ways to enter. There will be ONE required entry and then a couple extras. For each entry, please leave a separate comment. That’s all I ask.

In return, you’ll be entered to win an awesome Celestial Seasonings Wellness Kit of your own, which I know you’ll enjoy!

Giveaway Rules

There is only ONE required entry:

1. Visit ww.celestialseasonings.com and come back here and leave me a comment sharing which product you’d most like to try – or already have and love.

That’s it. Easy peasy!

For extra points:

2. “Like” the Celestial Seasonings Fan page.

3. Follow Celestial Seasonings on Twitter AND tweet this message:

@CelestialTea and @RawJuiceGirl are hosting a #wellness #giveaway! Enter HERE:  http://tinyurl.com/5to8tgx

You can tweet up to 5 times per day, at least an hour apart.

You have until Thursday, October 27th to get your entries in. Winner will be chosen by Mr. Random (random.org). Entries will be received until midnight (Central Time).

Let the entries pile in, y’all!!!

Hi, y’all!

How are ya? Anxious to find out who won the NuNaturals giveaway, I’m sure!

But first, I’d like to say I’m thrilled you all loved my idea about freezing bananas for future use (I’ve done that for years!). Glad my tip helped you out.

And it was fun to share with you that yoga + oats makes me a happy girl. That hip opening DVD Stacy McCarthy sent me was quite the workout, too!

Oh, have you by chance made my PF NuttZo smoothie yet? It’s DELISH!

I know, I know… You want me to hush with the food and yoga talk and get on to the four winners of the NuNaturals Stevia Giveaway, huh?

Okay, I will.

A huge thank-you to NuNaturals for being so generous – with me and all my fantabulous readers!

And thanks SO much to those of you who read my blog and took the time to enter the contest. It’s a joy to host them so I’m thrilled you all still like to enter them.

I used random.org to choose the winners (the Integer Generator) so the winners were randomly chosen – and I love that site because it makes choosing winners easy and fair.

Here are the winners!

24 = JC

91 = Donna B.

74 = Jamie

9 = Tami Jo Eaton

You will each be receiving an email from me. Enjoy your sweet wins!

Again, thanks so much to NuNaturals and my readers for making this giveaway such a fun success!

Stay tuned… in the coming weeks you’ll be reading in-depth reviews of awesome products, have the chance to win some of those awesome products, and learn more about me, too!

And don’t forget about the SPECIAL BONUS :

www.NuNaturals.com  has been very gracious and generous and have offered an amazing deal for HWJ readers.

Check out this AWESOME tidbit of info, folks:

Message from NuNaturals: “This offer to your readers EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, ENDS SEPTEMBER 30, 2011.”

Receive a SPECIAL DISCOUNT of 15% on your TOTAL ORDER by entering this CODE : 

BLG930

And by ordering from www.nunaturals.com, you’ll ALSO receive FREE SHIPPING (in the Continental U.S.) on all orders totaling $35.00 and over, AFTER this special discount.

“This offer is EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, ENDS SEPTEMBER 30, 2011.”

FREE SAMPLES!

Get your FREE SAMPLES of NuStevia Packets! Just send a SELF-ADDRESSED, STAMPED #10 envelope to the following address:

NuNaturals, Inc.

2220 West 2nd Ave. #1

Eugene, OR 97402

Hi, y’all!

How’ve ya been?

I know some of you may already do this but I thought I’d share one of my tips with you: freezing bananas.

Bananas are yummy – but they don’t last long! If you don’t gobble ‘em up quickly, they will get all dark and mushy. Lots of folks from the old days (and I’m sure these days, too!) consider those old, blackened bananas the best-ever for baking old-fashioned banana bread or muffins.

Some of you may throw those old bananas away.

I try to eat or freeze my bananas before they get in bad shape – ‘cause I hate to waste food!

It’s easy and doesn’t take long to freeze your bananas for future use.

Just slice or break into chunks.

Lay flat, not touching, in bags or containers.

Store in the freezer ’till ya need ‘em!

This way, you’ll have pretty bananas when you need ‘em for smoothies or some other goodness. They’re also great to just nibble on as-is!

Have you ever frozen your bananas? Do you eat them too fast? Do they ruin on you? Will you be taking advantage of this tip? Do tell!

And…

Don’t forget to enter my SWEET GIVEAWAY!!!!

There will be FOUR winners!!!

Hi, y’all!

As I promised myself – and y’all – I’m getting back to healthy eating and my yoga practice.

My first morning back to yoga practice was spent with Stacy McCarthy and it was AMAZING!

I tried out one of her new DVD’s: Yoga Body: Hip Opening Flow – which I LOVE.

But you can read all about that HERE.

On to the oats, right?! Right!

You’ll notice the specs and dark color of the oats. That’s because I loaded ‘em up with cinnamon.

I heart cinnamon.

And it’s not just for the spectacular aroma and yummy flavor, it’s because it’s so good for me, too! See for yourself by reading my Health Benefits of Cinnamon post.

Get ready for something that’s….

Warm, Crunchy, Fluffy, Delish!

I also had a cup of yumilicious coffee with breakfast. I added a few drops of vanilla stevia AND cocoa bean extract. I’m living on the wild side, aren’t I? LOL  

NuttZo-Cinnamon Oatmeal

Ingredients:

1. 3/4 cup old-fashioned whole-grain oat flakes
2. 1 1/2 cups milk
3. 10 drops vanilla stevia
4. healthy dose of cinnamon (to taste)
5. 1-2 TBSP NuttZo

Directions:

1. Following directions on the container, heat on stove or in microwave, if you use one.
2. Once done, stir in NuttZo, vanilla stevia drops, and cinnamon.
3. Enjoy!

Cute Item found @ a Thrift Store: $1.00

Are you a patient person? Or does this quote sum you up?  

How do you like your oatmeal? Do you like to switch up the flavors and textures or are you partial to a certain oatmeal concoction? Do share!

And…

Don’t forget to enter my SWEET GIVEAWAY!!!!

There will be FOUR winners!!!

FTC Disclaimer: The Yoga Body Hip Opening Flow DVD mentioned in this post was sent to me by Stacy McCarthy, free of charge. I was not paid to write this review. The opinions in this post are my own thoughts and were not bought. Links to Amazon are affiliate links, should you want to shop through my affiliate link and help keep Raw Juice Girl blogging.

As I mentioned in my Shame on Me post, I’ve been neglecting yoga – to the point that I’m stressed and stiff. I need yoga in my life to ground me. It calms me. Sooths me. Makes life’s stresses melt away.

And of the various yoga videos I’ve tried, Stacy McCarthy has become my favorite. I love the way she teaches. Her voice – and the music – is so calming.

She’s a very positive person and is just delightful to practice yoga with! It’s just a DVD after all, but Stacy has a way of making you feel as if you’re in the room with her. It’s awesomeness.

This morning, I woke up with pep in my step and knew it was the day designated to return to my yoga practice – with all my heart, body, mind, and soul!

I rolled out my pink Aurorae Yoga Mat, tossed my Aurorae slip-free rosin bag on the mat, grabbed my laptop and a cold water bottle from the fridge. I was set to go!

Stacy has sent me three yoga DVD’s so far:

Yoga Body: Lean & Defined Total Body Workout

Yoga Body: Hip Opening Flow

Busy Mom Yoga – Core & More

That’s a pretty awesome selection right there. How can a girl choose?!

Well, I’ve already practiced using the Yoga Body: Lean & Defined Total Body Workout – numerous times. The Busy Mom Yoga speaks to me because I definitely need to strengthen my core and hey, it’s always great if we can save a few minutes, eh?

But…

I chose Yoga Body: Hip Opening Flow this morning. My hips are definitely tight and since it’s been so long since I’ve practiced yoga, I knew this would be a good place to start.

My hips have always been tight. I was never one of those youngin’s who could plop down into the splits.This is an area I really need to work on. I’m not saying I’ll ever be able to do the splits, but open hips sounds nice.

This is how the screen looks when Yoga Body: Hip Opening Flow comes up on your computer (or TV). 

I’ll admit, I started to give up half-way through the DVD – not because it’s so difficult it’s impossible or anything, but just because it’s been so long since I practiced yoga and I’ve allowed myself to get so stiff.

But I stuck it out.

When it came time for poses I couldn’t follow through with, I just rested in child’s pose until I could move on. I think I skipped two poses.

Let me tell you, the yoga poses Stacy teaches in this DVD are absolutely hip opening – you feel it for sure!

It’s a nice feel, though. The long, slow stretches are telling the hips to open and they work beautifully.

I couldn’t be more pleased with this video. I absolutely enjoyed it!

Before I knew it, the 45 minutes were up – and I was lost in shavasana.

I had forgotten how good shavasana feels. It’s such a peaceful feeling. It’s also a feeling of accomplishment and great joy!

I’m so happy with the DVD and I will be using it ‘till it’s worn out, I assure you.

Bonus Mini Maintenance Practice!

Stacy included a mini maintenance practice at the end of the Hip Opening Flow because she says it’s “better to do a mini practice regularly (only takes a few minutes!) than to do a lengthy practice once a week.”

Great advice, Stacy!

I’m going to be following that advice. I’m tired of being stiff! 

A HUGE thank-you to Stacy for her generosity. That DVD will NOT collect dust, promise!

Have you ever practiced yoga using Stacy McCarthy’s DVD’s? What did you think? So far, I’ve had the privilege to try out two – and it’s an A+ on both!

And…

Don’t forget to enter my SWEET GIVEAWAY!!!!

There will be FOUR winners!!!

Yep, that’s right! My husband can make yumilicious meals – I am SO lucky!

Friday, September 9th was our one-year wedding anniversary, and the night before, he peeled and sliced a ginormous cucumber, chopped two homegrown tomatoes (that we bought from a local vendor), sliced about a third (or so) of a big onion, and then put a whole bottle of Italian dressing in the bowl and stirred it all together. Oh, and he added some water (about half the dressing bottle full).

He popped the lid on the bowl and put it in the fridge so the flavors could marry overnight. YUM-O!

I know what you’re thinking: a WHOLE bottle of processed dressing?!

But hey, who can complain when their husband loves veggies AND whips up a flavorful salad?! Not I, says Raw Juice Girl, not I! LOL!

If you’re interested in the overnight salad recipe my husband made, you can see it at Mainline Gardening: Overnight Salad – Made By My Husband.

The Night Before

We got the tomatoes homegrown from a local vendor, using my eco-friendly Bite bag (which I reviewed HERE).

He also thawed some beef and pork steaks and hot dogs and made his own marinade concoction.

I busied myself making old-fashioned potato salad and (hand-grated!) cole slaw. I also made a fresh pitcher of tea (black tea bags mixed with green tea bags). Delish!

Next Day, Our Anniversary: Sept. 9th!

I got busy slicing red, yellow, and orange bell pepper + onion to get ‘em ready for grillin’!

SO Pretty—the Colors!

On to the Grill!!

And…. on to the table!!!

Set for four – we had a couple of guests!

As you can see from the table setting, I love old-fashioned stuff and flowers are my favorite thing in the whole world. Well, maybe chocolate and caramel are my favorite things, but you know…

Anyway…

Our anniversary dinner was a success. But even more important than the tasty meal, was spending the day with a true sweetheart – my soul mate. I have the BESTEST husband ever!!

I’m a happy girl!

Don’t forget to enter my SWEET GIVEAWAY!!!!

FTC Disclaimer: I’ve been buying the plastic bowl/cup covers I talk about in this post with my own money for quite some time now. I’ve never been sent any to review. I’m just sharing tips with you. The PB Free NuttZo WAS sent to me for review. The links to Amazon are affiliate links, should you want to shop and help keep Raw Juice Girl’s blog alive and well. 

Hi, everyone! How are y’all? Have you been getting your daily smoothies in? Or raw juices? How about healthy Omega 3? Protein? Nut butter? Green tea?

Have I got the smoothie for you!

I love smoothies, as you know, and I love changing things up and trying new concoctions. I love the various nutrients, vitamins, and goodies I get when I drink a smoothie. And I love how they’re thick, creamy, delicious, and filling – can’t beat a smoothie for a quick, nutritious snack or meal!

Well, maybe Greek yogurt, but… Today I’m talking smoothies.

Right? Right!

Here’s a photo of the finished PB Free NuttZo-Banana Smoothie. It was decadent, let me tell ya! Yum!

Bubbly Banana!

PF NuttZo = YUMILICIOUS!!!!

Cutesy, Useful Bowl/Cup Covers

I’ve been using bowl/cup covers for a while now. As pictured above, these covers resemble a shower cap and have elastic so they fit tightly over your bowl, cup, or glass. Each package comes with one that is big enough to cover a plate! I love that one.

But there’s also a few that are for small bowls, cups, or glasses.

I use them ALL the time. They’re washable and reusable and one of the ways I count myself an eco-friendly kind of gal.

Do you use them? Have you ever heard of them?

I ended up drinking my entire smoothie at once but should you want to make a double batch or just end up with way more than you want to drink at once, these bowl/cup covers are magic! Cover your cup or glass with one that’s size-appropriate and seal the goodness in until the next day.

Saving a smoothie in the fridge “for hard times” is a great way to make sure you have something filling and nutritious that you can grab when you’re on your way out the door or it’s just one of those chaotic days that absorb all your time and energy.

And… now for the recipe!

PF NuttZo-Banana Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cold banana, peeled and broken into chunks
• 4 ice cubes
• 3/4 cup tea (I used black/green mixture.)
• 2 TBSP PF NuttZo (details HERE)

Directions:

Add ingredients to blender.

In this order, if you have the buttons on your blender:

1. crush ice
2. blend
3. liquify

It makes for a YUM-O smoothie, in my opinion.

Watch out for upcoming, in-depth reviews of NuttZo AND PF NuttZo – I’m LOVING ‘em!

Have you had your smoothie today? What about NuttZo? Have you ever tried it? It’s addictive, I tell you – there’s NOTHING like it! Talk to me, people!