Wednesday, 29 May 2013

Meet Angel Davis, our Customer Service Supervisor!


That co-worker who leaves on “lunch” only so she can sneak off to Staples for supplies. 

That colleague who barely leaves her desk, unless it’s to make a surprise donut run for the office.

That infectious laugh that never fails to bring a smile or snort about…

Yup, that’s our Angel.

Still curious? Here’s a bit more: Besides some savvy skills in customer service (prior kitchen manager, antique market host, and gourmet chocolate shop supervisor), Angel’s one of those gems who truly loves what she does – working with people.

Q AND A

So, what’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done?
The scariest thing I’ve ever encountered was when hiking in Southern Alberta. My husband and I came across a LARGE snake rattling away.

We didn’t panic though, we slowly negotiated around (very far around) the snake – keeping our eyes on it the entire time, then we just went about our way.

However, on our way back, it seemed the entire field beside us came alive with not one, but thousands of rattle snakes.

We froze. It took us a few moments to muster up some courage before we ran past the spot, barely escaping them.

In cases like these, I wish I’d taken a wilderness safety course, or maybe even a trip to the psychiatrist before leaving!

One more?
Another scary time was when, again I was hiking with my husband, and he yelled “Oh my God, don’t move, that’s the biggest, ugliest bug I’ve ever seen.

He looked at it for a moment telling me how it had huge pinchers and looked like it belonged in Jurassic Park. Then he asked me to hold still for a minute while he got the camera!


Quirky habit?
I like to sing loudly (and off key) when I’m alone. I also enjoy wearing unique hats.


Thursday, 23 May 2013

Shake up your workout shakes with creamier, slushier protein


Drinking the same pre-made workout mixes can get boring, quick. So, why not spice it up by adding shredded coconut or crushed nuts to your shake?

Slushy smoothies are a popular thirst- quencher, and help revitalize your body’s composition before and after working out. 

To create a creamy blend of healthy protein, simply start at the lowest speed of your blender and work up to higher speeds slowly. Ice is usually added last (up to three cubes), but feel free to add more if you want a slushier, creamier effect.

We also suggest choosing veggie-based (soy) or animal-based (whey) protein powder for your mixture. The more natural the source, the more protein you get.

If you decide to forgo protein powder – a scoop of peanut butter, almond butter or soy milk will also do!

PRE-WORKOUT SHAKES
Pre-workout smoothies should be sipped 30 to 60 minutes before hitting your regime.

1) ENDLESS SUMMER
This fresh and juicy watermelon blend, is kinda mouth-watering to say the least.
   
      When mixed with strawberries and low-fat plain yogurt, this shake gives your muscles the boost they need to start exercising.
Melon Benefits: low in calorie, rich in potassium and aids in preventing heart disease and cancer.

¼ cup milk
¾ seedless watermelon, cubed
½ cup strawberries
½ cup low-fat plain yogurt
 

2 teaspoons vanilla whey-protein powder 
3 ice cubes

Recipe Via: http://greatlist.com    

2) OATY BANANA 
Because we digest oats at a slower pace, they automatically make longer lasting energy enhancers during a workout.

For a tastier and thicker textured smoothie, blend with banana, almond butter and chia seeds.

Banana Benefits: restores electrolytes, aids digestion, natural anti-acid.
 
1 banana
¼ cup rolled oats
½ cup plain kefir
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon almond butter
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch of cinnamon


Recipe Via: http://greatlist.com

POST WORKOUT SHAKES
Enjoying a protein shake after the gym speeds up muscle recovery time, and rebuilds energy.

1) CHERRY BERRY TEA
A refreshing assortment of red tea, cherries and blueberries – the Cherry Berry Tea is also infused with protein enhancing tofu for a slightly thicker consistency.

Benefits of Cherries: lowers causes of heart disease like cholesterol and inflammation of body fat.

  ¾ cup rooibos tea (steep 2 tea bags for 5 minutes, then chill tea)
  5 ounces silken tofu (about 1/3 of a block)
  2 cups sweet cherries, frozen 
 1 cup grapes, frozen
  ½ cup blueberries, frozen

Recipe Via: http://greatist.com

2) PINA COLADA
Au natural! Fact: Coconut water provides just as much hydration as any sports drink. Laced with pineapples and honey, the Pina Colada offers a load of vitamin C and boosts your immune system.

Benefits of Coconut Water: great source of potassium, rich in dietary fibers and amino acids. 

 ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
 ½ cup coconut water (or try coconut water ice cubes!)
 ½ cup pineapple, frozen
 1 teaspoon honey
 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
 ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Recipe Via: http://greatist.com