Actions, not words......

Are you torn with indecision about a friend or situation?  Things seem murky and tough when it comes to making a decision?  Here's a trick that has worked beautifully for me again and again.  Look at actions, and don't listen to words.  Words are things that we hopefully cling to at times....but actions will tell you a clear and concise story in a heartbeat.....but only if you "listen"

Stay gorgeous and healthy,

Megan

You're only beautiful because you believe you are....

When I was in college, a friend of mine looked at me, and gave me one of "those smiles", it was a smile that said: something that isn't so nice is about to come out of my mouth....She looked at me and said: you know you're only pretty because you think you are, you just make people believe you're pretty.  I was a little dumbfounded, and didn't really know what to say, but I looked at her and said:  Thank you, in a way, I guess that's better than actually being pretty, because I'll always be able to think myself pretty.

I know you hear it all the time, but so much of real beauty is what is on the inside.  If you look around, there are so many beautiful people, but sometimes the things that come seeping through from the inside, kill that beauty.  How you carry yourself, live your life, and treat your friends is all part of your beauty.....my little brother Ian used to say to me:  "my favorite part of you is that you don't act like a pretty girl, you are so nice to other people. "  he always said that it was a good thing that I grew up feeling awkward, because it made me a nicer person later.

Imagine yourself beautiful, and carry yourself that way.....let your inner kindness, thoughtfulness and energy help you to hold your head a little higher, and walk a little taller.  The dynamic and beautiful things which make up your character, make such a difference on your exterior.  In my life, people have said so many strange and often unkind things to me about my exterior....my jaw is too square, I'm short, my eyes are set close together.....but do you know something?  It really doesn't matter, because that isn't my true beauty or fire.....I'm pretty enough because of what's happening on the inside, how I live my life, and who I am.....these are all things that I will always have.  Think yourself pretty.......

My Photo shoot with Paul Buceta:)

Lori "working the miracle":) on me!

So first of all, this may need to be more than one blog entry, because I did so much, and learned so much....all in the course of a day.  I was super excited to work with Paul Buceta http://www.paulbuceta.com/,  as I have always been a huge fan of his photography, and also to be glammed up by Lori Fabrizio http://www.lorifabrizio.com, who is an amazing makeup artist and hair stylist.  I give her even more accolades, because I am sure that the fact that I am a hair stylist myself, makes me a more nerve wracking client than the average girl.  That said, she didn't have a single thing to worry about, because she has such an intuitive sense of what works with hair and makeup.  I didn't need to say much, because she knew exactly how to make my hair look its best, and the makeup was flawless....it made me feel super confident.

Sarah Scotford  http://www.sarahscotford.com/ brought racks and racks of clothing, shoes and accessories, and created one cool look after another, and it was so relaxing to have someone to take the stress out of what to wear.  There were so many great combinations that I wouldn't have come up with myself, but loved.  The girl actually has her own line of couture swimwear and it rocks.  It held me in, and lifted me up in all the right places.  May I also say that Paul has a RIDICULOUSLY gorgeous (and nice!) team?  I felt hotter just by being near them, I'm just saying....:)

note that I am sweating....told you I get nervous!

I was excited, but also nervous going into the whole experience.  One thing that people don't really see as part of my personality is that I get a little overwhelmed and shy sometimes.  I think people see me on the outside, and they can't really understand why....but I was so very shy and awkward when I was a teenager, and never even thought for a split second that I was pretty......sometimes when I'm in a new situation, I feel that a little bit again.........I forget myself.  From the minute I walked into the studio, Lori, Sarah, and Paul made me feel welcome, and helped me so much when I needed direction (which was all the time by the way!)  The funniest moment was when we were doing a bikini shot....in the water.....and I was supposed to be sexy with the garden hose.....I was all kinds of awkward! 

I'm laughing hysterically (and mortified) at the picture after.......lucky thing you can't see the moniter!

At that point I started freaking out a little, because it was just hard for me, I had to go a little out of my comfort zone, and risk looking foolish.....(oh I did look foolish.....Paul told me to drink from the garden hose, which I did.......but it wasn't pretty and everyone practically peed their pants laughing.......ohhhh Megan!  Haha) ....that said we got some amazing shots from it, and after having the experience, I know that I could do it even better the next time.

After we were done shooting, Paul talked to me about really going for it when I model, and not holding back my movement, or my emotions....because when you hold back, and pose....there really isn't anything interesting or dynamic about the image.  I know that I did better than at my last shoot, and sooo much better than the one before that ( and don't get me wrong.....I love the images) but I wish I could do it all again tomorrow, with the talk from Paul fresh in my head, because I think I really needed to hear that from someone.  Living life with as much abandon and joy as I can possibly manage is what I want, and sometimes I tighten up the reigns out of fear of what people think.....it's so constricting, and I want to let that go.

He also brought up a really interesting point, perfection isn't really sexy, trying isn't really sexy....perfect hair....isn't really sexy.....there is an allure and a fire which you can only get by being authentic, by not trying......

Yum!  Enjoying a Corona after the shoot, I sooooo earned this today!

That said though, I love the images, and feel like the day was one thousand times more productive and wonderful than anything I could have imagined.  I definitely plan to shoot with Paul and his team again, and think that to a point, I'm spoiled now, because none of my past photos hold a candle to these.

Riding back in the taxi this afternoon I was thinking a little bit about my blog name Missfittgirl, and how appropriate it really is for me.  I'm not quite ripped and lean enough to be a top fitness model, too teeny to be a fashion model, and too wholesome to be a glamour model......hmmmmmmm, I really am a bit of a missfittgirl.  I'm okay with that though, as I have some fun aspirations to pass along my fitness and beauty wealth, and share my stories.  Sometimes when there isn't a category in which you fit, you just might have to make your own.

Oh heyyyyyyy room service!  I ended my day with some kids chicken nuggets and fries, choc cake and ice cream:)  Back to healthy eating today:)

at the airport.....heading back to Boston!

The Photos in this post were taken by Paul (unless you count the very bad ones I took on my Iphone:), and are unedited........I'll post edits later:)

Oh Canada!

The past few days have been something else!  My business at the salon has been out of control....wonderful, with really fun clients, and interesting  color corrections, and I have been packing, dieting, and preparing for a photo shoot in Toronto.  I always start to feel sad and guilty about leaving Teddy and Bella (my two, sweet dogs) especially because I get so busy in the last few days that I don't ever feel like I give them the attention they deserve.

I was walking to do my laundry in my building the other day , when out of an apartment that has been vacant for quite a few months, came a young guy.  I was surprised, and instantly asked if he had just moved in......I think the best part of the convo was when I glanced past him as we were talking, and my laser eyes spotted a delicious bowl of M & M's on his coffee table, and said "ooooooooooh M & M's!?!"  He said: " Yes, would you like some?" and I was like......"Nooooooo, but it's so good to know that they're there......!"  Sometimes I just have to laugh at myself for being such a goof.....who says things like that?:)  Anyway, we'll call him Mr. Italy (as he's from there) and he seems like he will be a great neighbor.  I miss the days when my best friend lived across the hallway from me, it always made my apartment building feel a bit like a dorm, or the set of Friends.........

Sunday morning was hectic!  I woke up early to shower and finish packing for my trip, then I took a taxi to Perfect Tan to get an airbrush tan by Brian Unger (the best at airbrush tans in the city) so it would be fresh for the shoot.  I was a bit like a flighty thoroughbred race horse as I ran from place to place, unable to relax until I got here.

Someone wants to go to Toronto with me, and also plans on bringing his fave blue alien toy......

I packed sweet potatoes, baked chicken (frozen), oatmeal and trail mix in a cooler to take with me to the hotel.  Sometimes it seems like too much trouble to pack all that food to bring with me, but I always feel so much better when I have healthy choices with me....If this were a regular trip and not a shoot however, I would just have a few things with me, definitely not the chicken and sweet potatoes:)

Leaving for the airport wasn't as bad as usual.....I always have an enormous amount of luggage ( I never said I was low maintenance) and my building has too many stairs, fortunately Mr. Italy was nice enough to help me with my ridiculous luggage, as well as to hail me a taxi.  Thank goodness for dream neighbors!

I made it to the airport in the nick of time ......I took this picture in the powder room...that's a reach for the ladies room...haha, but I'll take a mirror wherever I can get it:)  I look a little funny because I need to shower off the instant bronzer for my tan.......but it's still good:)

Oh hey delicious pink sugar treats.....I want all of you!!!!!

I'm at my hotel in Toronto now, relaxing until tomorrow when I shoot.  There is a huge Mary Kay Convention in the hotel, and the lobby is filled with so many delicious pink cupcakes, cookies and candies on a buffet table......Oh how I would love some!

Starbucks is my gatorade:)

Ok so not really, but I always have a cup ( or sometimes two in the morning before I lift weights.  Coffee makes you stronger, feel less pain, and gives you a boost through your workout.  I'm not saying that you should be feeling pain when you're working out, but coffee (in moderation) will help you to excel in your workouts, and do more than you might otherwise.

I'm off to the gym to lift:)  So much to do the next few days:)

Stay gorgeous and healthy,

Megan

Always remember that you are more.......

Out for a night of fun with a treasured friend:)

Always remember that you are more than your dress size, you are more than the house in which you live, or the car that you drive.  You are more than the lecture that you gave where you stammered, and forgot what you were going to say......you are more than your weaknesses, full of strength and beauty, understanding and authenticity.  What are your strengths?  Is there something that you love about yourself?  There is only one of you in the world and you are a fresh rose looking lovely on a summer day.....a one in a million snowflake, a sunrise in the mojave desert, casting your lovely light for all to see.  Define yourself by the beauty that you know is there, and build from that.  No one among is is perfect, and why would we want to be?  Always, always remember the strength, beauty and grace that is uniquely yours, and can never be taken from you, as it lives within you.

Megan

The Four seasons tea.....my favorite way to visit with friends

leaving for tea at the Four Seasons.....and yes, snapping my own picture as usual:)

One of my favorite ways to visit with friends is over tea or coffee,  it's relaxing, light, and there's plenty of time to have an actual conversation because you aren't eating (much) .  It's also a great way to go to some of the more beautiful hotels in your area......

Yesterday I had a meeting, and since I've been staying on track for my shoot, tea seemed like a better option.  The Four seasons does a beautiful tea, with a small tier of cookies and snacks if you feel like a few bites....I think it's the perfect way to spend an afternoon with friends......and stick to a healthy eating plan.

I hope everyone is having a beautiful day!  Write me if you have any questions or comments:)

Megan

Eating healthy at Abe and Louis

Retail therapy at my favorite store.......Bebe.  Not so into this outfit.....Have you heard the song "I'm on a boat.....???" they would have to play this the entire time I wore this outfit.....

So yesterday morning I started out my day soooooooo excited!  I was going to a big pool party at the MGM (at Foxwoods) and I couldn't wait!  When I'm getting ready for a photo shoot, I usually stay in for the last couple of weeks, so I can get extra rest, and also so that I can make all of my meals and adhere to my diet.  Well I got an invite from a friend to a pool party and thought: perfect!  Dancing, being outside, and I can just drink water or iced tea and pack something healthy ( I know this probably sounds strange, but I have followed so many diets at this point, I am used to having to bring my own food)   Anyway, I got all ready to go, and packed up my food, put on my bikini etc, and was sitting waiting......my friend called me after we were supposed to leave, and cancelled.  Uggggh, sads!  I was so very excited to go, and so disappointed to stay home!  I felt like a little kid and sort of wanted to cry....but I thought, c'mon Megan.....when life gives you lemons....you make lemonade!  I've been really busy lately...and started to think about the things that I have been wanting to do, but have not had the time....  I met up with a friend and walked around Newbury for a bit, then hit some of my favorite stores....so fun!  I wound up buying all sorts of adorable pairs of shorts at bebe, I was so surprised as I didn't think I was a fan of shorts...but I take it back, I truly am.

After shopping I went to Abe and Louis for Filet Mignon, because I was famished from all the shopping.   I wound up meeting up with two friends, and having a very amusing and laughter filled dinner, and although I ate quite a bit, I chose healthy things, and felt happy that I stayed on my plan.  I had a few shrimps from the shrimp cocktail to start, followed by the filet mignon (with asparagus on the side) and two chocolate covered strawberries to end the dinner.  Healthy, and such a great day too:)  When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.... (and eat chocolate coved strawberries:)!!!

Stay gorgeous and healthy,

Megan

What an average day looks like right now.....

So many times people ask me what I eat, in an average day.....for a snack.  Recently a client asked me, and I thought......hmmmmmm, most people probably wouldn't want to eat the way I'm eating now because I'm getting ready for a photo shoot, which means I'm eating super clean.

Right now I'm making tons of trips to the grocery store because I like to keep tons of fresh fish and produce in the fridge, okay well maybe not tons, but I go through produce quickly!  Right now I am keeping the fridge (and freezer) sticked with: baby spinach, summer squash, zucchini, tomatoes, yellow, orange and red peppers, onions, sweet potatoes, broccoli, asparagus, avocados, blueberries, strawberries, grapefruit, chicken breast, cod, tilapia, salmon, eggs, eggs whites, lemons and limes, salsa, kale and winter squash.  In my cabinet my go-to items right now are olive oil, balsamic vinegar, protein powder and a touch of soy sauce.  I always cut dairy about two weeks before a photo shoot because I am sensitive to it, but when I'm not getting ready for something, I often have a greek yogurt or a sprinkle of cheese on my omelette.

I'm drinking a ton of water per day with lime squeezed in, black coffee, taking a calcium supplement, multivitamin and fish oil.  This is a pretty strict list of foods I'm eating, but I still enjoy it!  Here's a recipe for a super healthy salad I like to have when I'm leaning up:

Baby spinach
handful of strawberries
half an avocado
4-5 ounces of chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon juice and a sprinkle of sea salt on top....so good!

Hope you are having a great day!

Megan

Reader question.........I love soda...is diet soda my best bet for dieting?

Question..... is diet soda (coke Zero) the best bet for dieting?  I love soda.......

My answer:  I know this isn't what you want to hear, but if you really want results when dieting, you also need to drop the diet soda.  I know what the bottle says, zero calories......blah, blah, blah......but guess what?  Artificial sweeteners and flavors affect out bodies in more ways than you can imagine.  If you google it, there are tons of articles on the strange side effects that they can cause, and one of them is that they can stall your fat loss.  A few years ago when I was getting ready for a fitness competition I was drinking a ton of diet soda, and doing everything else right with my diet, but not dropping any weight.  I was also very tired and anxious......I talked to my coach, who said that I MUST drop the diet soda immediately, and I did....although it was hard!  Within a week the weight began to fall off, and I felt so much better.  Fake food does some funny things to your body, and with artificial sweeteners, your brain gets confused.  It expects calories from sugar....after all sweetener tastes like sugar, but it gets .....nothing!  No energy, no nutrients...  When you're dieting (or just trying to lead a healthy lifestyle) you need to get more bang for your buck.  You need good, old fashioned water, or green tea....that's what you should be drinking for optimal success and health.  Treat yourself to one or two sodas a week, but just know it's not helping you.

Staying focused.......

I bought my first pair of sneakers in a long time because I have been making sooooo many trips to the grocery store.....and I love them!  Converse are so cute!


Two weeks till my photo shoot!  I've been drinking tons of water, planning out my meals.....and making daily trips to the grocery store so that I can be sure to have tons of fresh produce and fish.  When I'm staying on a tighter eating plan, I always make sure to have lots of healthy options around so that I won't slip, and eat something I wasn't supposed to just because I didn't plan well.  My friend at the gym, who is motivational to me said yesterday: failure to plan, is planning to fail.  I love that!  As I write this, I am preparing all of my meals for the day, even dinner.  For breakfast I had a bowl of steel cut oatmeal with strawberries on top and an omelette made with 1 whole egg and five egg whites and black coffee:)  The funny thing is, when I'm being especially strict with my diet (now) and excluding all processed foods, I feel the best!  My energy is high, and my stomach is flat!  Also in reality all of my cooking for the day takes under forty-five minutes, not that bad when you think about it.  Have a great day everyone!

Reader question: what's the best way to take weight off??

Reader Question:


Hey Megan . I've been heavy all my life. and been dieting off and on. I started back on dieting again. I was 267 and now I'm 238. It's so hard to keep it off. I lost 40 pounds and I put it back on after I had some things happen in my life. Is there any advice you could share? I don't want to take any pills or anything. Because then you'll just need them forever....... Trying to do it the natural way.  

How are you able to keep it all off and not worry about putting it back on? It's so hard. Doing it. I was hitting the gym. But it didn't seem to do much for me. 

My answer:

Hi there!  Thank you so much for writing:)  Ok, so here goes:  first of all, read my blog....there is a lot of good stuff here, and the tips and tricks apply to anyone and everyone that wants to watch their weight, men and women.  We live in a society where it's not easy to stay lean, portions are huge, fast food is everywhere, and it's just easy to give up sometimes!  But there's hope.

1.  Want it enough.  If you are going to lose weight, you have to want it, not just enough to complain, but enough that you are 10 out of 10 commitment wise.  There will be obstacles, challenges, and saboteurs, but you must remain strong and focused, and know that it will be hard, NOTHING GOOD COMES EASY.  

2.  Know that diet is 80 percent of your success.  People who work out and aren't seeing results are blowing their diet.  You need a scale, measuring cups and spoons, and a cabinet and fridge full of good, whole foods, not diet foods, real food.

3.  A sound exercise plan.  I know in your email you said you have an injury, so you need someone that can write a plan around it.  There are still many things you can do, and I for one don't do much cardio, and I think Cardio would irritate it the most.

So here is the thing.....keeping slim isn't ever easy for me, I always have to watch what I eat, plan my meals, and work at it, but it's worth it.  A great body is the one thing that money truly can not buy, you have to earn it, and find the disciple and desire in your heart.

Look through all of my blog posts, and google precision nutrition.  Order it.  It's good stuff, and if you want this enough, it will tell you everything about nutrition that you need to know to get the body you want:)  That's your first step, write me back and update me on your progress please.  I'm happy to answer more questions, but I want you to take that step first.  Just worry about the nutrition part right now.

Megan

Reader question....How can I condition myself so that I can do pull ups?

Reader question:)

I've been doing a lot of strength training and within past 9-10 weeks I lost about 12lb and build up my muscles and slowly I am seeing an OUTLINE of a six pack YAY. I can run a lot faster and longer because of strength training. Now my questions to you is...now matter how many push ups I do...I can't do pull ups without cheating. What do you suggest?

My answer:  First of all, great job with the weight training!  I told you you'd love it!!!  Is it okay to say I told you here??:)  Push ups aren't going to help you much because the movement plane is actually quite different......however, there are a few ways that you can make your body stronger, and then you will be able to do a pull up!  Just so you all know, pull ups are done with palms facing away from you:)

1.  If your gym has one, use the assisted pull up machine.  This is actually a good option, and although I always prefer free weights to machines, it will get you started...and stronger.

2.  Do lat pull downs with a cable.  This will also strengthen the muscles you'll be using...

3.  Do negatives.  Use a bench, or step that has enough height, or if you are feeling super tough and renegade that day, jump up.....and only do the portion of the exercise where you lower yourself down.

Ok, my last bit of advice.....wear gloves!  I wouldn't even bother to attempt a pull up without throwing on gloves first, you'll have a much, much better grip.  When you finally master the pull up, you will be doing one of the most effective exercises there is:)

Stay gorgeous!

Your questions, emails and comments make me smile!:)

Me on a really happy day, with a good friend:)

Hi everyone:)  I have been getting some amazing emails, questions and comments lately, and I just wanted to tell all of you, that they really mean the world to me.  I really enjoy writing, and sharing anything that I know with you, and it brings a genuine smile to my face to know that you like what I write:)  If you have questions, just know that I am always here for you....

Stay gorgeous and healthy,

Megan

Other people telling you......it's okay.

So as you may or may not know, I'm in the last two weeks of getting ready for a photo shoot in Canada:)  To get ready for any kind of modeling which is fitness based takes (at least in my opinion) a great amount of discipline and strength, and it is by no means easy.  The very act of preserving my muscle, and getting quite lean at the same time requires planning, and science.  Let's just say that after years of doing this, I know what it takes.

Enter into the equation the opinions that other people often give:  You don't need to be so strict, you're perfect just the way you are just this once won't hurt you, why can't you have a drink?  It's no big deal....

Here is the thing, when I have a target that I need to hit, no one is going to move me from that target.  This is a photo shoot, and I believe in showing up ready, not expecting, or needing to be photoshopped.  When you see a picture of me, that is really my body,  I worked for it, I earned it, and I did it in a slow and steady, healthy way.  It's not my genetics, it's not a pill, it's hard work and planning.  When people tell me that I can just have one, or relax today, I remind myself that we have drastically different goals, and that yes, they can have one.......but if I want what I want.....then I have to fuel my body the right way, and treat it like it's my business, because that is exactly what it is.  I'm not having a martini, or a plate of fries right now......I have a goal on mind.

People don't need to understand your eating, or why you jump rope like Rocky in the boxing room, they don't need to be in a magazine, or to be able to do 10 pull ups.....everyone's goals are different....but it's your job to remember and protect yours.  If you don't know how to get there, then learn.....but whatever you do, don't take advice from someone that doesn't share your goal.  Live it, feel it....do it.

Stay gorgeous and healthy and get after it!

Megan

Tabata .........the best kept fat burning secret:)

Tabata is one of my favorite (okay, and least favorite) fat burning secrets.  I love it, because it works.....and really reaches into those hard to get to stores of abdominal fat, but I hate it because......well because it's a grueling 4 minutes!  Tabata is an exercise protocol that was created in Tokyo, Japan.  To do a round of Tabata, you need 4 minutes.  I personally love to go in the boxing room at my gym and set a timer so I don't lose track of time, but you can do it anywhere that there is a wall clock.  For 20 seconds, you do an exercise at your maximum intensity.  I do kettlebell swings, high knee jumping rope, or burpees.  You could also do the elliptical, or jumping jacks.....there are many options.  So 20 seconds of hard work, followed by 10 seconds of rest, then repeat until 4 minutes are over.  At first you may not think it's that hard, but after a few rounds, trust me....it will be grueling.  It brings to min pre-season soccer practice when I was in high school, where I just couldn't imagine finishing the workouts!  That said, your metabolism will be cranking when you are done, fat will be burning.....and you will most definitely have a workout high.  I love, love this workout, and that I can be done with my cardio in 4 minutes!  When I really want to push myself, I do two rounds with 2 minutes in between, that's it, that's enough:)

stay gorgeous and healthy!

Megan

Sometimes things don't happen all at once.....

I'm working toward a goal......and originally, I was working with someone else, and it completely stalled out.....so now I'm making progress, smaller of course.....but still there, by myself.  It's a little frustrating, because in my mind, things were going to happen so much faster and more easily, but I just keep reminding myself that there isn't only one way to reach a goal, and some progress.....even if very small, is better than none at all:)

Stay gorgeous and healthy:)

Megan

19 days till photo shoot:)

I'm so motivated right now:)  19 days till a major photo shoot in Toronto!  Hitting the gym, drinking a gallon of water a day (yes, really) and planning out all the details!  I'm so excited, I really can't wait.  It's been a little hard getting ready because Boston has been having a major heatwave, and I have been so hot that it's been tough to move, but getting a new super cold ac tomorrow should help me speed things along! Off to the gym to work out now.....

stay gorgeous and healthy....and get after it!

Megan

I want my Bikini Body ...... (by Valerie Waters) What I've been doing for training this month.

One question that I am asked very frequently is: What do you do for your training?  First and foremost, I always have a plan.  Going into the gym without knowing exactly what you are doing, and "winging it" is a huge waste of time.  It's like trying to fly to St. Barths without a flight plan.......bad idea.....seriously.  It took me a while to realize that I wasn't seeing results when I showed up to the gym and just did a little of......well, everything, and also most importantly:  I didn't feel motivated.  Having a plan gives you a start and a finish, and a distinct goal.  I highly recommend it if you want a great body.

I've been using Valerie Waters I want my bikini body plan and I love it! http://www.iwantmybikinibody.com/ She really understands how to design a program that works.  It keeps me lean and toned, without adding too much muscle.  SOme people say that women can't build too much muscle.....and all I can say is that I disagree.  That said, we do need to carry a fair amount of muscle to look firm and toned, so please do start resistance training if you haven't already.......it's amazing.  My favorite part of her program are her Valslides.  They challenge me in a complete new way, and everyone at the gym is always wondering what they are:)  Here is a link to Val's program......I recommend this to so many of my clients who want to get in shape.  If you spend the money on this program, you save sooooooo much money because you won't need to hire a trainer all the time.  I still think it's a good idea to work with one to establish your form though form is everything.

Letting little slips be just that.....

The delicious, Barbie cake.......it's Espectacular!!!!

Sooooooooooo last night, I couldn't get my Barbie cake out of my head.  My mom made it, which of course means that it was wonderful, and with my very favorite, her buttercream frosting recipe.  I had planned to have a nice, big cheat meal on my birthday, with lots and lots of cake....then getting right back on my plan because I have a photo shoot in a few weeks.  Well, last night I decided I didn't care...because I really wanted more cake.  It was delicious, and I enjoyed every minute of it, but wound up feeling a little sick because I never eat that much sugar in one sitting.  Now I'm back on my plan, and not dwelling on my treat.  It's not the few, outrageous treats that keep you from where you want to be, it's what you do on a daily basis.  Eat things that are super good for you 80 percent of the time, and you'll be fine to enjoy Birthday cake and other goodies the other 20 percent:)

Living for today, not tomorrow.....

My birthday:)  So much fun with my family, and I had a Barbie cake like I always do......I'm still a big kid, and I have so much fun with it!

I'm going to let you in on a little secret......when people constantly reference tomorrow, they are not people who live in reality, and get things done.  You know one of the most important things that I have learned in my life?  Tomorrow may, or may not come.  I'm sorry, that may not be what you want to hear, but it's the reality of our lives, and if it's important.....I mean really important....the time to take action is now!  It's so easy to say that you will spend more time with your friends tomorrow, or start your diet tomorrow, or be a kinder person tomorrow, or whatever it is.....but it just may not happen, you see other things will always happen between now and then, there will be more obstacles and phone calls, bad weather and obligations......wade through the difficulties like a soldier....and GET AFTER IT.....if you want it........and you know what?  If you don't do it, no matter what you may say, then you just don't want it enough.  That's fine, but do not allow yourself the luxury of talking about it, or complaining.  

My mother had a rule that she engrained in me when I was growing up: We were allowed to complain about something three times, and after that.....we had to take action, if we didn't, no more complaining.  

Today is your day, and you are responsible for making your dreams, and daily goals, a reality......don't wait for someone else to do it for you.....it's all on you.

Stay gorgeous and healthy.....and get after it,

Megan

Lifting weights is the closest thing to the "fountain of youth"

Yesterday when I put on my swimsuit, and got ready for the beach, I took a second to really appreciate the positive things that lifting weights has done for me.  Not only does it provide me with an emotional outlet, a mental discipline and a feeling of well....being strong, it had kept my body looking just like it did ten years ago, if not better.  How we age is largely based on the way that we care for, and respect our bodies, and constantly challenging my body by lifting weights has allowed me to keep the muscle tone of someone in their early twenties......so that today, on my 34th birthday I can sport a bikini I bought ten years ago, and still feel great.  I built this, I earned it, and I remain this way because it's important to me.  It's not because of genetics, surgery, or and kind of unhealthy cheat....it's good old fashioned healthy diet and exercise, and I am really happy to feel so great at 34.

A few years ago after about a year of not working out, I made a trip to Miami and realized that my body didn't look the way it used to....I was skinny, but not fit.  I weighed less than I do now, but somehow my body looked old to me.  I watched other girls at the pool and thought: I used to look that way....I want a great body like that!  And so I set out to get one, training, eating right, and with a goal in mind......and I'm so happy I did!

Stay gorgeous and healthy, and if you want it enough.....get after it!

xoxo,

Megan

Time with family is the important thing:)

I'm in the country, visiting my family, to celebrate my birthday today.  I have been preparing for a photo shoot since last week, so I knew that this visit it would be really important to me to follow a nutritional plan.   It's funny because sometimes when a birthday, or holiday falls around the time of a photo shoot, I feel a little pang of "ohhhhhhh, now I can't pig out as much as I want to"......and when I think about it rationally I start to realize that the important thing is the celebration, and having the joy, and good fortune to be able to spend time with my family.  Celebrations don't have to be all about food!  I packed some produce that I had in my fridge that I didn't want to spoil while I was gone,  and made a trip to Roy's Market to buy some wild salmon, beef tenderloin, melon, and a few other fresh fruits and veggies.

I also went to the gym that I used to go to when I was in high school, and did an intense weight workout.  It felt so good to stay on my usual training schedule, and to be active.  I love that my family and I have an understanding, and they respect the fact that sticking to my diet and exercise is an important part of my life, just as important as say.....brushing my teeth.

When I got home, I sliced up some honeydew melon and put it in a big pitcher with ice, so that I'd have plenty of water that tasted refreshing, and my family tried it and loved it!  My family decided to order chinese food, and I prepared some wild salmon with a delicious honey mustard glaze, and a big spinach salad with crispy, orange peppers, sliced roma tomato......and a bit of olive oil, lemon and sea salt on top.    My dinner was so good, and I felt great after eating it.....so great that I threw on a bikini and took my niece swimming.  When I looked at the chinese food which was fried, and colorless.....unlike my salad....I really didn't feel like I was missing out.  I've trained my body to like eating healthy, and of appreciate the feeling of eating fresh, wholesome meals.  I still had a wonderful time with my family, and they were very impressed with how delicious the salmon I made was.

I feel relieved to know that it's really not about the food, it's about whom you're with, and that I can enjoy time with my family without pigging out.

By the way....the recipe for the salmon:

Combine two tablespoons dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon honey, pinch of salt and pepper, and a tablespoon of olive oil in a bowl.....brush on top of salmon....then bake or broil as you like in the oven.  Sooooo good!

My niece Emmie is hysterical, she didn't want to look at me......and ummmmm, look at this!  In the next picture below she went from being animated and chatty, to totally silent and almost doll-like when she was (staring) at me!  I guess she needs to get used to me!

Oh my how I love these little girls!

Dream night at the Four Seasons

So my mom came to Boston yesterday to pick me up....I live right in the city, and don't keep a car, so when I want to go home, she's so sweet, and comes to pick me up.  We had so much fun, went for a mani and pedi, and then decided to go for dinner, because traffic was so intense, and we didn't want to sit in the car for an hour at a standstill.  I decided to take her to the Four Seasons because it is literally my favorite place in the world.  It's so luxurious and beautiful to have dinner in the Bristol Lounge, but also incredibly welcoming.  Everyone there made our night so wonderful.  I feel like the Bristol is like a little town, and when I walk in....I'm home:)  Everyone stopped over to say hi to my mom, and it made me so happy to have her with me at my special spot.  After dinner Hiley, my favorite waiter brought over a delicious pice of chocolate cake.  One the plate they had written Happy Birthday with the most amazing writing....in chocolate!  When we left, Steven who is the all knowing doorman at the Fours asked if we needed a ride....and had us driven home in the Four Seasons Mercedes limo:)  I had such a beautiful night, and feel so lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful people.  It was such a joy to share with my mom too...happiness!

Megan

Home for the fourth (which is my birthday, yay!)

I'm going back to my sweet little home town tonight, to spend the weekend with my mom, and family.  I'm so excited, and can't wait to bbq, swim, and visit with my nieces.  My mom makes the best cakes in the world, so I have been saving my cheat meal for a piece (or two) of my birthday cake (which is going to be a Barbie cake this year)  and whatever yummy dinner we BBQ.  This year I remembered to pack a "New Hampshire friendly bikini because my bathing suits that I wear in Miami and California just weren't cutting it for my mom:)  I have to remember I'm visiting the local swimming hole, not South Beach.

In the past, I used to return from New Hampshire frustrated with myself, because I did a poor job of negotiating all of the delicious treats at my mom's house.  I don't tend to buy much from the snack aisle of the supermarket (maybe mixed nuts) and the cabinets at my mom's house are filled with all sorts of treats....but my nemesis was the candy cabinet, which is usually filled with M&M's, baby Snickers and Lindt chocolates.  When everyone else went to bed, and I was still asleep, I would go and raid the cabinets, eating much more candy than any person should probably have in one sitting.

Now when I go home my mom literally empty's the candy cabinet, and puts it somewhere so that I can't find it, and wreck much of the work that I've been doing for the past few weeks. I know this may seem a little extreme, but I appreciate it so very much, as it takes the pressure off of me, and I don't have to worry about having adequate willpower.  I also make sure to pick up plenty of things that fit into my nutritional plan.  I really like the way I feel eating clean, wholefoods, and so I've learned just to bring them with me, and incorporate them into the weekend.

I know it seems like a lot of work, and thought, and it is.  Staying in shape requires a fair amount of consistency on my part, but it's just become a way of life for me, and is as basic, and crucial as brushing my teeth:)

Stay gorgeous and healthy,

Megan

The value of clothing that doesn't stretch.....

No room to over eat in this outfit:)  

I had a great conversation with one of my very bright, and introspective clients yesterday, and she said she had been doing some thinking, about when (according to her) her fitness levels had decreased.  She said that everything started coming undone when she began working from home, and no longer had to get dressed for work.

This insight really resonated with me, because I think that clothes serve as a better gauge for how you "look" than the scale.  Oftentimes when I am dieting, and working out hard, my body may not lose much weight on the scale, but my jeans fit more loosely, because I am loosing fat and gaining muscle.  It's really helpful to regularly wear clothes that don't have a lot of give, so you can remind yourself of what size you want to stay, or you would like to be again.  Exercise clothes can trick you into thinking that you look better than you do, because they have so much give.

I have a pair of True Religion jeans that have no stretch, and they tell me better than any scale, how my body looks.  If I'm starting to get the dreaded "muffin top"  I cut out dessert for a few weeks and add some jumping rope into my routine.  I know my tips are a little funny sometimes, but they are exactly how I have maintained my figure....and here's one:   When you are going out, wear something unforgiving.  Make it so that if you overeat, you'll actually be uncomfortable:)  I think that the key to success is understanding yourself, and knowing that you aren't perfect (no one is!) and anticipating where you may slip up with diet and exercise.  When I go out, I know that the urge to overeat is likely, so I plan ahead with my little tips and tricks.  Tomorrow I'll share my tips for staying on track when I visit my family:)

Stay gorgeous and healthy,

Megab