2012 was a big change for me I adopted the Paleo diet and got back to the gym. I lost a significant amount of weight but hit a plateau in late summer where I have been just chilling. I still have weight to lose and more importantly I want to get stronger and healthier. I have 3 kids and work full time and I need to be in shape just to keep up. I was looking for something new to revive my workout routine when  I saw a video about DDP Yoga and was moved to tears at the dramatic changes Arthur experienced. The amazing team at DDP Yoga offered to let me review a set to give you my personal take on it.

I am starting on the YRG combo pack and the first thing I see is a pamphlet with Diamond Dallas Page “It ain’t your mama’s yoga” While I was intrigued a part of me thought yoga is yoga…right? Well after the first day I realized I was wrong very wrong. Now I love working out and hit the gym for 2 hrs a day Monday through Friday so I wasn’t sure if yoga would be enough to feel like a workout.

I started with the “Diamond Dozen” on the first disc. In this workout DDP explains the 13 basic moves involved. I like how he breaks each move down and they aren’t too difficult with the modifications anyone could do this program starting at their own level. I am one of those people who need things explained don’t just tell me lunges will give me a firm butt tell me how. I love how he explains each move and how it works it helps keep me motivated.

After completing the “Diamond Dozen” I decided to jump right in and do the “Energy” workout. The moves again were all well explained it took the basic Diamond Dozen and incorporated them into fluid movements. I loved all the dynamic resistance it still boggles my mind how well it works. I lift weights 5 days a week and the next day I could tell what an amazing workout I had with the DDP Yoga and best of all no impact and no strain. On top of my muscles getting a first class workout I love all the stratching my whole body feels better.

I am only a few days in but I really am impressed. I will be  tracking my progress and be updating with reviews as I try the other videos and let you know how I feel and how effective the program is for losing weight. They have a great DDP Yoga community that I joined you can get on the boards anytime of day to get help, encouragement or ask questions to help maximize your workout.

If you are looking to get healthier in 2013, check out the DDP program with me or anyone who is on it I would love to hear your thoughts. Here is to a happy and healthier new year and not waiting until May to get swimsuit ready!

For more information:

DDP Yoga website: www.ddpyoga.com

Team DDP Yoga website: www.teamddpyoga.com

DDP Yoga on facebook: www.facebook.com/DDPYOGA

DDP Yoga on twitter: @DDPYoga

Believe it or not, it’s almost time to deck the halls… and find him the perfect present! For the ultimate luxury this holiday season, transform his daily grooming regimen from a chore into a masculine ritual. Selecting the right gift has never been easier; just use his personality as a guide.

A great classic scent sure to please any Bond fan on your list. The scent is very fresh and masculine.

Unleash his “dangerously sophisticated” side. Not for the weak-hearted, the new James Bond 007 fragrance is the gift for the ultimate Bond man. A unique fusion of traditionally authentic and unmistakably British ingredients shape a classic fragrance with a modern twist – a must have for the 21st century contemporary man. For those that seek adventure and intrigue, much like the iconic spy himself, the fragrance is the perfect gift for that flawlessly combines irresistible sophistication with uncompromising masculinity. (Retail: $40)

Liberate his softer side. The Art of Shaving’s The 4 Elements of the Perfect Shave® new Mid-Size Kit is the ultimate gift to initiate him into the elite society of expert grooming. The kit has everything men need for soft healthy skin, a close comfortable shave, and helps to prevent ingrown hairs, irritation, nicks, and cuts: Pre-Shave Oil (1oz), Shaving Cream (1.5oz), Genuine Badger Hair Shaving Brush, and After-Shave Balm (1oz). The kit is available in the brand’s classic scents: Sandalwood, Unscented, Lavender, and Lemon. (Retail: $60)

 Boss Bottled Sport is incredibly wearable with a burst of lively and energetic notes that invigorate the senses. It stands out from crowd with its carbon fibre-inspired composition, and changes dynamically from bright citrus to resonating wood tones.

Release his competitive side. HUGO BOSS fragrances’ adds the final piece to the BOSS BOTTLED. trilogy with BOSS BOTTLED. SPORT., the scent that takes inspiration from the strength and durability of carbon fiber. This holiday give him this fresh, stimulating and unmistakably masculine scent that will keep him focused and mentally prepared for any challenges that lie ahead in 2013. The best-selling BOSS BOTTLED. fragrance for day and the seductive BOSS BOTTLED. NIGHT. round out the trio that embodies the competitive, driven, masculine lifestyle that is the BOSS Man. (Retail: $67)

Add some spice to his fragrance collection with Eau De lacoste L.12.12 Rouge, this spicy-fruity scent is dynamic and energetic. 

Stimulate his spicy side. LACOSTE’s EAU DE LACOSTE L.12.12 Rouge is the scent to wear this winter. Fiery and invigorating, the fragrance harvests a triple blend of spices at the heart to create this robust scent. Notes such as spicy mandarin liqueur, Madagascan black pepper, Indian ginger, and Guatemalan cardamom provide a warm welcome from the cold weather. A masculine and zesty fragrance with a spirit that can only be described as energetic has EAU DE LACOSTE L.12.12 Rouge top the top of everyone’s wish list for the holiday season. (Retail: $62)

When the weather outside is frightful, there is nothing better than getting the fire on, lighting some candles and snuggling up with your partner. If you are looking for some really sizzling festive outfits, check out the stunning range of Lingerie from Figleaves:

1) Pour Moi? Essensia Basque

For that really sultry love by the fire look, get your hands on this gorgeous Essensia Basque from Pour Moi? The light boning structure clings to any silhouette creating that illusive hour glass shape with zero discomfort. The cups are perfectly shaped and slightly padded with a beautiful embellishment of embroidered fuchsia bows mirrored on the hips.

2) Adore Thermal Silk Blend Long Sleeve

If you are going for a full loungewear set you cannot be caught out without a pair of thermals and this rosy pink number is an absolute loungewear draw staple. It is perfect for when you want get cosy in front of the fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate or if you want to wear it as extra padding under your clothes to combat the winter chills.

3) Boudoir Tease Silk And Lace A-G Demi Bra

The boudoir Tease Silk bra and lace thong combo is an absolute winner. Its balconette style bra with half cup design is perfect for a little Christmas teasing and the luxurious lace detailing makes for a pretty item every girl will feel sexy in. The bra has adjustable straps, sturdy under wiring and lightly padded cups with a pretty bow in the centre. It is available in sizes A-G cup and the matching thong is offered in a range of sizes from 8-14.

4) Velour Hoody

Velour will never go out of style, especially during the winter time. This velour hoodie is the perfect gift for a lazy post-Christmas day lie-in; she will definitely be grateful for this warm and cosy treat.

5) Gossard Femme Fatal Sequin B-E Slip

The Gossard Femme Fatal Sequin Slip is something a little different. It is not boned like your normal basque or corset by still sculpts the perfect figure. It has great support with under wiring and padded built in bra that gives amazing cleavage. The sheer material and sequin detailing make it perfect for the festive season and the detachable suspender straps mean it could be used for night wear as well as lingerie.

Haven’t quite found the inspiration you are looking for? See here for further information.

Happy gift shopping.

Lavanila fragrances have always been a favorite of mine so I was excited to check out their candles. They smell divine and make my room smell great even when they are not lit. I love the tin they come in just add a bow and they are perfect for gift giving.

Lavanila Pure Vanilla Healthy Candle
This intoxicating blend of the world’s finest Madagascar vanilla & soft vanilla orchid celebrates the power of essential oils and fills the air with delicate, lingering scent. Housed in a large keepsake tin, these custom-formulated, 3-wick candles are the ultimate expression of all-natural beauty and luxury.

$12

The Winter Garden fragrance is truly intoxicating. It smells so great I almost hate to burn them but who can resist filling your home with this gorgeous winter scent. The trio comes in a cute box ready to gift, any hostess will loves to receive this set.

Crabtree & Evelyn WINTER GARDEN THREE FRAGRANCED CANDLES
Spread holiday cheer throughout your home with the warmth and glow of our beautifully designed candle set, featuring the vibrant fragrance of Winter Garden and festive green glass holders that will add a burst of colour to the season.

Made with paraffin wax blend
Provides a long-lasting scent
Beautiful green glass with gold leaf pattern
Presented in an elegant Crabtree & Evelyn signature box
Approximately 25 hours of total burn time each

Fragrance: A fragrance medley of holiday greens, frosted apricots, amaryllis, and ice glazed fruits gathered from a magical winter garden.

$35

Jurlique comes to the rescue for dry, irritates winter skin. Give your hostess a gift she can use everyday with this beautiful collection of hand creams. The Hand Care Essentials kit comes with four great scents, my favorite has to be the Citrus hand cream. I love how emollient these hand creams on and I find they absorb really quickly which is a huge benefit. My hands and cuticles feel great after just a few days use.

Jurlique Hand Care Essentials
Softly scented hands, perfect for giving and receiving. Our collection of favourite hand creams that deeply hydrate with rich formulas and powerful essential oils. Four gorgeous scents will invigorate your senses.

The Set Contents:

Rose Hand Cream, 40ml
Lavender Hand Cream, 40ml
Jasmine Hand Cream, 40ml
Citrus Hand Cream, 40ml
Key Ingredients:

Enriched with Jurlique’s Proprietary Biodynamic Blend of herbs and flowers includes Rose, Marshmallow, Chamomile, Calendula, Viola, Daisy, Pansy, Sweet Violet and Echinacea and is traditionally used for its hydrating and soothing effects.

$62

I adore the fresh clean scent of Amazing Grace. The Grace Wardrobe gift set would make a great hostess gift. The fresh, clean scents of the line are sure to please. I like that you get to try all four scents in one kit the small bottles are perfect to keep in your purse or gym bag to freshen up on the go.

philosophy Grace Wardrobe Gift Set
What it is:
A four-piece collection of Philosophy scents to match your mood and inspire confidence.

What it does:
Create your personal fragrance wardrobe with this set of fresh, floral scents meant for layering, mixing, and experimenting. Amazing Grace is a uniquely feminine blend of soft, floral blossoms accented by a hint of light musk. Pure Grace is a clean, transparent blend of fresh blossoms and cool greens, laced with sensual, frosty musk. Inner Grace helps bring peace and balance to your life with deep, calming florals. Living Grace creates a feeling of vibrancy and clarity with soft, clean florals and a touch of musk.

This set contains:
- 2 oz Amazing Grace Eau de Toilette Spray
- 0.33 oz Pure Grace Eau de Toilette Spray
- 0.33 oz Inner Grace Eau de Parfum Spray
- 0.33 oz Living Grace Eau de Toilette Spray

$49.50