Stay Hydrated with Shasta Sparkling Water + Giveaway!

This is a sponsored post written by With Open Eyes To See on behalf of Shasta Sparkling Water

A few days ago. I shared with you my journey to weight loss. Today, I want to talk about strategies that help in that journey.

One of the biggest things my trainers pushed was staying hydrated. Cutting out sodas, sugary juices, and candy. Sodas were the hardest thing for me to let go of. They tasted great and my thoughts were "It's liquid so therefore, I must be staying hydrated, right?

WRONG

Interesting fact: Caffeine in sodas is actually a Diuretic. Soda, in turn, dehydrates you faster as the caffeine can make you urinate more often and you lose more fluids. Your body doesn't absorb these types of fluids as well, so your body just doesn't benefit in any way.

Sodas and juices also hold high sugar content, so if you're trying to lose weight, it will contradict anything you are trying to accomplish. Even those with lower calories and sugars. What alternatives are out there where you can get that sweet flavor without all the calories and sugar and help you to stay hydrated?

With so much out there on the market to choose from, it all comes down to reading your labels. Finding out what is and isn't in your beverage is important. For a while, I was big into those water additives. Those packets of flavoring you can add to your water to make it taste better. I didn't have that carbonated aspect I craved and looking at the labels, they also contained artificial sweeteners.

That is when I found Shasta Sparkling Water!

Introducing the ALL NEW Shasta Sparkling Water! A unique sparkling water line that is the FIRST Soft Drink Alternative and FIRST Clean Label in the beverage industry. Shasta Sparkling Water is a worry-free, guilt-free beverage that tastes just like a regular soda but without all the unhealthy additives. 

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The only ingredients in them are carbonated water and natural essence. I am now able to stay hydrated, get that sweet carbonation soda flavor I craved without all the sugar and caffeine.

AND it's made in the USA!

I was able to try the Black Cherry and the Root Beer Flavors and I have to say that I was impressed! Every sip was a refreshing hint of flavor with that kick of carbonation. The essence of flavor was light enough that it wasn't too overwhelming, yet enough to just get that burst of flavor I needed like in the sodas I used to drink. I am definitely hooked! I get everything I need all in a can of carbonated goodness without having to feel guilty about what I'm putting into my body. I can keep hydrated and keep on my meal plan all at the same time :) I recommend trying every flavor.

The Shasta Sparkling Water comes in several different flavors without the calories, sweeteners, sugars, and sodium so you get a variety of tastes you'll enjoy without the guilt of sugary drinks.

Lemon Lime- incorporates the crisp bubbly taste of Shasta Twist
California Orange- has that refreshing tangy zest of Shasta Orange
Black Cherry- shares sweet impressions of Shasta Black Cherry
Draft Root Beer- enjoy Vanilla and Sassafras just like Shasta Root Beer
Cola- blends soft tones of kola nut you'd taste in Shasta Cola

The benefits don't just end with staying hydrated. Drinking water can reduce your risk of health conditions such as diabetes, some forms of cancer, obesity and other health risks.

Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day will keep you hydrated, your skin looking great and you won't feel sluggish all day long.

When looking for a carbonated beverage that has all the benefits of drinking water without sacrificing taste or your diet, Look for the brand that has been a household name since 1889,
Shasta Sparkling Water!

Enter to win a prize pack worth $19.99 including two cases of Shasta Sparkling Water and a Shasta T-shirt!

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* I received this product free or at a discounted price in exchange for my review. I was not compensated for my review and all opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. *
**Notice any unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from With Open Eyes To See is strictly prohibited.*

My Life changing Journey with Cadefit and Fitness Tracker Giveaway

The past few months have been extraordinary for me. I have taken, head on, to changing my life and becoming a healthier person both inside and out.

Let me give you a little bit of background on what journey has fallen before me and why I decided to take a leap of faith.

Back in July 2018, I bent over to tie one of my elderly client's shoes. I literally couldn't breathe because my stomach had become so big that when I bent over it pushed into my ribs and lungs. I wasn't able to climb my stairs without getting winded halfway up and I just didn't have any energy. Naps were my best friend and even those didn't help me feel better.

I was completely mortified that I had let myself get so out of shape and just overall, so unhealthy. Here I was taking care of others, telling them how to eat and exercise and I couldn't even take my own advice.

One day I was strolling through my facebook and an ad popped up. It was looking for people who wanted to lose weight during a 6-week challenge. So I said what the hell and filled out the short form, hit submit and waited. A few hours later, I received a video text message from the owner of Cadefit, Brian Cade. He was thanking me for signing up and couldn't wait to meet me at our appointment. I have never had someone send me a personalized welcome. I was already impressed!

Two days later, I somberly walk into Cadefit and am welcomed with such encouragement and love. Another great first impression. I didn't feel judged for the way I looked nor did I feel out of place.

When I sat down with Brian, he asked me some normal questions about my health and what I'd like to accomplish if I started working with the gym. Then it got to some more personal questions such as. what I like to do for fun...I couldn't answer him. I sat there and thought about my life and what I like to do and couldn't come up with a single answer for him. I felt so small and wanted to burst into tears. It was in that moment, I realized how much I hated the person I was and refused to let myself live life.

My beginning weight at the start of the journey

I signed up for the yearly membership and began my 6-week challenge.

I've done challenges before but once completed, I would revert back to the same behaviors as I had and everything I worked so hard for came rearing back at me with a vengeance. I was back to square one.

The difference in previous challenges and Brian's program is that he has a team of people who help you along the way. They teach you how to make lifelong changes in your life so that you become successful in your journey and not revert back like all the other fads out there that promise results. They help you with a meal plan and recipes, a nutritional coach who calls and checks on your progress and answers any questions you might have. Trainers who encourage yet push your limits. So much more than I could have ever imagined.

In the 3 months I have been going to Cadefit, I have met some pretty incredible people and made some lifelong friends who, like myself, started the same journey to better their health and wellness and overall outlook on life.

I have lost a total of 25lbs so far! I am down to 152.6 My self-esteem has risen 100% and I don't hold myself back from enjoying life. I enjoy going for walks, hanging out with my friends and I have fun! I encourage others through my journey and give them hope that things can also change for them if they set their minds to it. I have changed the way I eat and stopped making excuses as to why I couldn't do it. I have the support that I never had before and learned what accountability truly stood for.

At the gym while away from home. Still holding myself accountable and getting that workout in!

Traci and I at Busch Gardens Getting some major steps and some thrills!

Enjoying a day at the beach in California

Rain won't stop us from having fun!

Enjoying time together for a fabulous Birthday.

Cadefit isn't just about working out. They hold events and outings that get everyone together enjoying the little things in life. We go for long walks, have potlucks, go to wine festivals, we meet up for charity events and so much more! Recently we all went to a place called Zenith VR and Escape. We brought healthy dishes, played a bit of Virtual Reality, got locked in an escape room and had a blast! I have definitely been added to a wonderful fitness family.

If not for clicking on a Facebook ad, I would still be an unhealthy, depressed, lonely person. Thank you Cadefit family and all the friends I have had supporting me this far. Without you, I wouldn't be who I've become.

If you live in the Hampton Roads area and would be interested in hearing more about Cadefit, other success stories or want to become a member of our family, feel free to contact any of the team members with the info below.

Cadefit

301Village Ave

Yorktown, Va. 23693

(757)-281-8815

Or you can email Brian directly at

brian@cadefit.com

You can also visit the website to learn more about the program. see testimonials from happy successful clients, and meet the team of professionals who help with your fitness journeys.

I know I am blessed to be a part of the Cadefit family and I can't wait to meet you as you begin your new and healthy life!

In celebration of my success, I wanted to share a giveaway with you all!

As I've taken my journey there has been one device that has helped me track my steps, my weight and helped me to stay accountable. One lucky winner with receiving a Sports Band Fitness Tracker in Purple to help you!

Enter below for your chance to win and let's take a healthy adventure together :)

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Thank you BlogGiveawayDirectory.com 

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Halloween Treat With Java Factory Trick and Treat Coffee and Giveaway

👿Halloween is one of my all-time favorite holidays! I get to watch as my children get all dressed up in their ghoulish costumes and then raid their candy stash as soon as they walk in the door :)

(Come on, you know you do it too!)

Passing out candy to the kiddos is not only fun but you get to meet all kinds of new people. The only problem...it's a bit chilly out there. To warm me up from the inside out, I sip on a nice hot cup of coffee. Nothing keeps the hands more toasty than a warm mug full of caffeinated goodness.

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Purchase Java Factory Trick and Treat Limited Edition Coffee
For the Halloween season why not celebrate it with Trick and Treat Coffee from Java Factory.

Java Factory Trick and Treat is a limited edition coffee with a blend of Pumpkin and Marshmallow flavors that will have any monster jumping for joy.

I personally love the combination of aromas and bold flavor. It's available in K-cup form so I'm not waiting for my coffee to brew. I just pop a pod into my Keurig machine and POOF, I'm back to handing out treats to zombies and ghosts.

Trick and Treat Pumpkin and Marshmallow coffee is made with 100% Arabic coffee beans that are slow-roasted, so I know I'm getting quality and ultimate flavor.

With Java Factory, there are no tricks, just perfectly blended treats that are sure to make any Halloween a frightfully yummy delight!

Don't forget, the Trick and Treat Pumpkin and Marshmallow coffee from Java Factory is a limited edition item and will go fast. Order yours today before they disappear.

Enter for your chance to win a 40 count box of K-Cup Java Factory Trick and Treat Coffee below!

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* I received this product free or at a discounted price in exchange for my review. I was not compensated for my review and all opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. *
**Notice any unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from With Open Eyes To See is strictly prohibited.*

Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Brooklyn Bean Roastery Company Coffee and Giveaway

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and for me, that took on an entirely new meaning back in 2008 when my Aunt Laurel was diagnosed with Breast cancer.

Her journey started when her Mammogram showed a small mass in her right breast and was immediately scheduled for a second mammogram and ultrasound to verify the findings.
Unfortunately, it was confirmed.

On June 18th, 2008 my Aunt underwent surgery to remove the mass in her breast. This was one of the scariest things I'm sure she has ever had to endure and most frightening for myself as well.

In August of 2008, my Aunt started her chemotherapy. She underwent 2 rounds of treatment which lasted 6 months with 3 sessions per week. She was an absolute trooper and beautiful, I might add! Then it was on to Radiation Therapy, more tests, and finally some good news!

I am happy to announce that my Aunt Laurel has been Cancer free since the removal and treatments and is healthy! I am blessed to have her with me and tell her all the time she's way too stubborn to go and will live another 50 years. She's a beautiful young age of 78!

We sat down for coffee talk and of course, I had to share with her a special coffee from the Brooklyn Bean Roastery Company featuring Pink Pumpkin for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Brooklyn Bean Roastery Company
Pink Pumpkin
Vanilla Pumpkin Coffee

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While we sat there for our chit-chat, she told me her story of survival and the things she endured during her treatments. As much as I was there for her, I could never relate to how she felt, or the stress it put her under.

As we were talking she stopped in the middle of our conversation and said,
 "WOW, this coffee is amazing"
I couldn't help but chuckle at her because I completely agree!

So now that I have told you a little of her story, let me now tell you about the amazing Pink Pumpkin Coffee.

If you are looking for something bold and flavorful, you are definitely in for a treat with Brooklyn Bean Roastery Company. The Vanilla Pumpkin flavor stands out but won't overpower your taste buds. You get a great bold coffee flavor with just a hint of Vanilla and Pumpkin aroma. Something that blends very well together.

The Pink Pumpkin Coffee is made from 100% Arabica beans and slow-roasted so you have the best quality and taste. The coffee comes in K-cup form and is compatible with all Keurig machines.

Enter for your chance to won a 40 count box of Pink Pumpkin Coffee by entering below.

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Do you have a Breast Cancer survival story? I'd love to hear about it! Feel free to grab some Brooklyn Bean Roastery Pink Pumpkin coffee, have a seat, and let's have a conversation!

We all “love it when you like us or follow us” on social media!

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Thank you BlogGiveawayDirectory.com for helping host this giveaway

* I received this product free or at a discounted price in exchange for my review. I was not compensated for my review and all opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. *
**Notice any unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from With Open Eyes To See is strictly prohibited.*

Bose Home, Soundbar and Bass featured at Best Buy

This is a sponsored post written by With Open Eyes To See on behalf of Best Buy.

The new Bose family of smart speakers from Best Buy are here to uplift your entertainment mood and have you the talk of the neighborhood!
Retail $399-$799

With Superior Bose sound, your entertainment possibilities are endless. The new Bose Smart Speakers and Soundbars include voice control from the Amazon Elexa that puts millions of songs at the tip of your tongue. You also get WI-FI and Bluetooth capabilities so you can take your music virtually anywhere you decide to take an adventure.

You'll enjoy one-touch access to the music you love or you can also manage everything from the Bose music app. Stay up to date with software that adds new features to your experience.

Want to take your music all around the house? All the Bose family of Smart Speakers and Soundbars work together so no matter what room you are in, you can enjoy your favorite songs.

The Bose Soundbar 700 is designed to be the best in the world and delivers unmatched design and sound!

The Bose Soundbar 500 is thin, but don't let that fool you. It fits discreetly under your T.V. but the powerful acoustics will fill the entire room with sound!

Let's not forget about the Bose Home Speaker 500 that delivers the widest sound of any home speaker.

Surround yourself with Bose Smart Speakers From Best Buy and let the sounds take you on an adventure right in your own living room. Check out the Bose family of Speakers at http://bby.me/8d24u

This is a promotional post for Best Buy. I did not receive a product for review, however, I was compensated monetarily for the post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. *

Google Chromecast Streaming Media Player at Best Buy

This is a sponsored post written by With Open Eyes To See on behalf of Best Buy

The new Google Chromecast Streaming Media Player is here and waiting for you at Best Buy

Retail $35.00

The latest technology has everything you need all in one convenient device. Watch movies, shows, live T.V., YouTube and even look at photos from all your families devices.

Streaming from your phone has never been so easy. Just plug the Google Chromecast into the HDMI on your T.V. and you have the power to stream your favorite entertainment right from your phone with just a tap of your finger.

Watch family favorite shows, listen to your playlist and so much more. Worried that you can't use your phone while streaming? Have no fear, as you can still use your phone normally without interruption.

The Google Chromecast works the streaming apps you know and love, like Netflix, YouTube, and HBO Now. Find more apps at g.com/chromecast

If you don't have your phone in hand, just say what you want to watch from compatible apps and control your T.V. hands-free!

"ok Google, play Once Upon A Time from Netflix on my living room T.V."

Easy as Pie!

Compatible with your existing HDTV

Easily connects to high-definition televisions with HDMI connectivity.

Subscriptions are required to view some content.

Google Home, Chromecast, and compatible content required to cast to a TV using Google Home.

Web-based services and content require high-speed Internet service. Some services may require a subscription.

You can order your Google Chromecast Media Streaming Player at Best Buy http://bby.me/8mht4

This is a promotional post for Best Buy. I did not receive a product for review, however, I was compensated monitarlity for the post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. *

"Savor The Details" Event with Bosch

I recently had the opportunity to accompany my friend Rhonda to California for an amazing, all-inclusive, Bosch "Savor The Details" Event. Rhonda entered one of her delicious recipes for Blueberry Bread into the Bosch contest and finished in 4th place out of over 1200 entrants. The top 10 won the grand prize worth $7,500!

So before I tell you all the details of the trip, I want to tell you about Rhonda.

Rhonda is a very special person, not just because she chose me to experience this wonderful trip, but because she has such a beautiful soul. She is kind as well as generous and the type of person that will go out of her way to help someone even if it meant taking from her own needs. She is honest to a fault, funny and just an all out great friend to have on your side. I feel blessed to have met her and I couldn't see anyone more deserving than her to win this trip.

I'm sure you all want the juicy details from the trip but I want to also share that we almost didn't get the chance to go. Just days before we were scheduled to fly out, Hurricane Florence made landfall in Wilmington NC. Rhonda lives just across the bridge in Leland NC. With the damage from wind, rain and massive flooding, her little town and many around it completely stopped. The entire North Carolina coast was devastated. Trees down, no power, extreme flooding and unfortunately...lives were lost. The airports were closed and I wasn't able to get to her due to all the flooding. But I will talk more about this in another post.

Thankfully, I was able to "back road" down to where she is and the airport opened the day before our flight. We celebrated by going out for a drink!

Rhonda never gave up hope that somehow, some way, we would be able to go on this trip!

So there we were all packed and ready to go, headed to the airport at 3 am (I hated her at the moment...sooooo early) lol

When we arrived in Santa Ana, we were greeted by our own welcome driver holding up a sign with our names on it! We felt like celebrities already! He carried our bags for us and even opened our doors. A true gentleman!

So, I'm sure you are wondering exactly what she won right? Rhonda won a trip to meet Chef Curtis Stone! Oh my goodies, I just can't explain how ecstatic we were.

We checked into the hotel, got settled and then met everyone downstairs for a welcoming celebration like no other. Everything was perfect from the food to the company...and the drinks, the drinks were divine. Of course, everyone got to choose their own beverages, but we tried what's called a Blackberry Mint Mule. I'll leave the picture and recipe for you later! 😉

The Bosch team spared no expense and welcomed us all as if we were family. Everyone was amazing. Rhonda and I made instant and lifelong friends from all over. After the party, we went up to our room and crawled into bed excited about what Bosch had in store for us the next day.

The main event wasn't until 5 pm so Rhonda and I went out for an adventure to the pool, shopping and site seeing. I began my day in the fully equipped gym located in the hotel. I know...it's vacation, but I still enjoy getting a little sweaty in the mornings.

After the gym, we cooled off in the pool and walked around the Irvine Hotel to see it in all its splendor.

After the pool, we went on a bit of a site seeing adventure to Balboa Island and made a lot of new friends along the way! We rode the Farris wheel, ate corndogs, and talked with people on the boardwalk. Even our amazing Uber drivers got in on the fun and took selfies with us!

We barely made it back in time to change before we had to leave for the main event! We got to the lobby by the skin of our teeth 😅 We were all driven to the Bosch HQ, handed a glass of Champaign, toasted to our new found friends and taken on a tour of the Bosch kitchens. Which were amazing by the way.

Once we finished with the tour, we were stopped in a huge kitchen and given glasses of wine and Oysters with Caviar. (I passed but Rhonda took full advantage of it)

All of the staff from Bosch made us feel extremely welcome and treated us with the upmost respect. We were showered with gifts and never had an empty glass. They were all on top of it.

Once everyone was settled, We were introduced to the main guest!
Chef Curtis Stone

Not only is he handsome but he is also down to earth and just an all out great person. A few of the winners were able to cook with him and show some of the amazing recipes that were entered into the contest!

Rhonda was selected to go up and help and even got a hug from Chef Curtis Stone. I do believe that made her life worth wild right there! She was definitely in heaven.

Once we finished up with the pre-cooking event, it was time to move on to the main course.

When we walked into the dining area we were mesmerized by all the elegance that surrounded us. Everything was so beautifully prepared. The table setting was just breathtaking.

I had never been to anything so elegant in my lifetime.

After the dinner, we all got a chance to get our photo taken and talk with Chef Curtis Stone. It was such an amazing experience that I wouldn't trade for anything. He was courteous as well as professional in his demeanor. Very down to earth and totally the opposite of how you think a celebrity would act. I was very impressed! I have met a few and not all are created equal. Chef Curtis Stone and all the Bosch team were impeccable!

We ended the night with some great friends by the fire pit and a beautiful view of Hotel Irvine.

Rhonda and I had a fantastic time and met some amazing people while we were in California. I could not have asked for a better friend to experience this with than her. Once everything was said and done...neither one of us wanted to come back!

Thank you, Bosch, for such a great experience. Everything you did was PERFECT!

So now on to the recipe I promised you in the beginning 😄

🍸Blackberry Mint Mule🍸

*This recipe is not mine and was shared to you from The Food Network Website.
However, the photo was taken by me*

Ingredients


3 ounces lime juice

1/3 cup mint leaves, plus 3 mint sprigs, for garnish

2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh ginger

15 blackberries

6 ounces vodka

12 ounces ginger beer

Directions

Special equipment: a cocktail shaker, muddler, 3 Mason jars, toothpicks.

Add the lime juice, mint leaves, ginger and 9 of the blackberries to a cocktail shaker. Muddle until the mint breaks down into small flecks, the blackberries into small pieces and the ginger into pieces half their original size.
Add the vodka and some ice to the shaker; shake until combined. Strain into three Mason jars. Pour 4 ounces of the ginger beer over each cocktail. Garnish with a mint sprig and 2 blackberries held together with a toothpick.

ENJOY!