Coocoo for Coco...nut!

Have you had your coconut water lately? 

I recently have become addicted to this stuff. This very yummy, HEALTHY stuff. 

Let me fill you in as to why you should hop on the coco-agua bandwagon as well...

Benefits 

Coconut water is incredibly good for you. It is one of the best drinks to hydrate the body with. In addition to removing toxins from the body and aiding digestion, coconuts also have amazing anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties that help to cure diseases. The following are some of the health benefits of coconut water: 

• Low in Carbs (yeaaa buddy!)
• Low in Fat 99% Fat Free (yup, you read right!) 
• Low in natural sugars
• Keeps your body cool and at the proper temperature. (cool down with some coco-agua)
• Effective in the treatment of kidney and urethral stones.
• Natural drink for feeding infants suffering from intestinal disturbances.
• Excellent oral re-hydration medium, an all natural isotonic for all ages.
• Presence of saline and albumen makes it an excellent drink in cholera cases.
• Maintains the human body’s natural fluid levels. (!!!!!) 
• Aids in the quick absorption of drugs and makes their peak concentration into the blood stream easier because of its electrolytic effect.
• Found as a blood plasma substitute because it is sterile, does not produce heat, and does not destroy red blood cells and is readily accepted by the body.
• Kills intestinal worms.
• Excellent all natural water to drink while Relaxing, Meditating, Driving, Eating, Running, Aerobics, Working, Skiing, Mountain Biking, Exercising, Body Building, Surfing, Fishing, Snow Boarding, Working Out, Surfing, Physical Activities, or Exertion of any kind.  (LIFE IN GENERAL. DUH.) 
• Aid the body in fighting viruses that cause the flu, herpes, and AIDS
• Helps prevent osteoporosis  (LADIES!!!!) 
• Helps control diabetes
• Promotes bowel movements
• Promotes healthy thyroid function
• Used in cancer therapy   (!!!!!) 
• Helps kill the parasite Giardia Lamblia
• Improves digestion
• Provides quick energy
• Relieves stress on pancreas and enzyme systems of the body
• Helps in gallbladder disease
• Helps eliminate Candida yeast infections
• Inhibits the growth of mycoplasma
• Helps eradicate eczema
• Helps keep skin soft and smooth (LOVE THIS BENEFIT!)                                                                
• Benefits info via here

BUT, Does it taste good? 

Yes, I personally think it does! The very first time I tried it, I didn't exactly say to myself OMG this is ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS, but I had bought a six-pack of them, and by the third one I had really grown to love the taste. And take my word for it, you really do feel hydrated after gulping those babies down. So scoop you up a six pack or even just one or two to try. You won't be disappointed my little coconutties you. 

What kind of coconut water should you buy? Brands? And where can you score this stuff at??

There are many brands of coconut water, here are my top four:

 O.N.E.

 Vita Coco

 Zico

Harvest Bay

And which one is MY favorite?? 

O.N.E. !!!

mmm yummy!

You can buy all of these brands at your local grocery store or markets! I've seen them at Smith's, Wal-Mart and even Target. I buy mine from Sunflower Farmer's Market. Or you can always follow the links to the specific brands and purchase your faves in bulk! 

 Cost?

Coconut water can be a little costly, usually ranging from $1.60 to $2.00 per single serving.  However, like most vitamins and health foods, you get what you pay for.  Our health is definitely worth cutting back in other areas in order to keep coconut water handy, just saying! There are tons of delicious flavors of coconut water too, which will help you toss the sodas, high-sugar juices/sports drinks. In the end, it's worth the cost. 

A little coconut water Paparazzi for you, enjoy! 

Vicky Secret Angel -Alessandra Ambrosio

Jessica Simpson

Audrina Patridge 

Ri-Ri 

KG

Madonna!!

Lauren Conrad 

To Healthy & Happy Lives 

God Bless & Stay Tuned...

Britaña 

This is the secret: Christ lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing His glory. -Colossians 1:27

I think I can, I think I can...

I loveeee when I can share something that is currently going on in my own life that can pertain to any and everyone. So before I blabber on, please take a couple, JUST a couple, of minutes to watch the video below (make the video go to "fullscreen" for a better viewing)

Chills? A little choked up? In awe? 

Yea, I was too. 

It is now officially three weeks ( !!!! ) until my college graduation day. And indeed, at this point I am overwhelmed, nervous, stressed (just a little), and yes underneath all of those unwanted and probably unnecessary emotions, I am beyond excited. I think it's that irreplaceable feeling of accomplishment that I'm yearning for. That exact moment where you close your eyes, take a deep breath, and say to yourself, "I did it". It's an amazing feeling that's so close, I can taste it. I cannot wait wear my cap & gown, see the smiles from my proud family and have this blessing of an achievement under my belt. 

Yes so close, I can tassssste it. 

Going back to The Race video you watched up at the top, when I came across it I couldn't help but think how perfectly that real-life situation can sum up almost any situation we come across in this crazy thing we call, Life. Heather Dorniden didn't have to get up after she fell, did she? And man, did she fall hard. Not to mention, the other females in that race peaked at least 100 meters ahead of her before she even regained the energy to get back up. If you saw the little caption at the bottom of the video, it read: 

"She reminds us what a race really is about. What life is really about. We will fall. We can rise." 

I'd consider The Race to be an appropriate video to relate to at this point in my life. As we approach such milestones in our journey, the most humbling experience is to reflect on the times where we too have taken a fall. Times when we questioned our purpose, our aspirations, maybe even our faith. Times when we doubted ourselves and the ability to get back up. I know I can name a few. These falls are amazing opportunities, sort of like second chances. Only this time, on the second try, we are much wiser and stronger.

What did we do, how, or who helped us to get back up? Because, as often as we personally like to take the credit for things like this, other than with the help of God, we all had a significant other, parent/s, sibling, a mentor/coach to also thank for this. As I walk the line to receive my diploma in a few short weeks, I will be thankful and ever so appreciative for the people that encouraged me to get back up and to keep moving forward. 

In life, we will train. We will train for our race. But this race never stops; it is the race to fulfilling our dreams. The race to being great parents, understanding and supportive spouses, college graduates, teachers, humanitarians, leaders, and by far the most important, genuine individuals. We must remember though, no matter how hard we train or educate ourselves, there will always be the possibility of a fall through out this course. No need to fret, this is how we grow and how we learn. It is never about the fall, it is about the rise. It is up to us to fight back and win. Don't underestimate your willpower; your refusal to giving up is what it's all about. They are YOUR objectives, desires and ambitions...GO GET THEM! 

 I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.-Michael Jordan

God Bless & Stay tuned...

Britaña 

Not one of the good promises which the Lord had made to the house of Israel failed; all came to pass. -Joshua 21:45

If it is meant to be...

 

Last night my phone lit up with a text message from a dear friend of mine. This friend is the kind of friend I don't have to talk to everyday to know I can count on her. When hearing her talk about her life and her personal ambitions, it scares me at times because she's very much like myself; as my few genuine friends ought to be. After all, birds of a feather flock together...   

The text message read:

" **** broke up with me. I am heartbroken...I really just don't know what to do :("

Without even thinking twice, I drove myself to her place. I rang the doorbell to her condo. Waited about 30 seconds. I rang the doorbell again. I knew at this point she was probably scurrying around to clean up, wiping the running mascara off her cheeks and trying her hardest to put on a grin all before she peeked her head out as she opened the door. And of course, a forced-smile was what I was greeted with, and only a few short seconds later, to be turned into a face full of tears of a broken-hearted friend yearning for a simple hug of comfort.

I had never seen her like this before.

On a daily basis, from the day I met her she's always been bright. She's unbelievably driven; always looking to accomplish the next best thing. She cares unconditionally. I truly admire this friend. She's the type of person that doesn't rely on anyone for anything ......that is, except for Love.

Seeing her like this had me upset and asking myself why would someone of her stature allow one emotion, one situation and one person to drastically change who and what she represents. Why is it so hard [for anyone] to break through the temporary fog that blurs the vision of who we are as independent, understanding and effortlessly loving people when our love life tends to go in the direction we like to think of as downhill. It seems as though when Love is lost, nothing really matters. Life gets flipped upside down and all priorities seem invisible. 

As women we live for love. We love to love. And unfortunately, we love hard. So when the tightly woven fabric of love starts to unravel, even just a little bit, we have the slightest clue what do to.  So I'll start with this: If it is meant to be, it will be. Believe in this phrase; live by it. 

Say it again, If it is meant to be, it will be. 

Though I won't tell you my friend's situation in detail, I will tell you why it encouraged me to talk to you readers today. She started explaining the situation to me by blaming herself. Every other sentence, which was either introduced by or followed with sniffles and tears, was her asking herself "what did I do wrong?" So I asked her, "Well, what did you do wrong? In your heart, is there anything you feel you could've done better or differently to accommodate a healthier or more stable relationship?" And without an ounce of hesitation, her answer was no. Which I knew before I even asked the question. Remember that "fog" I told you about earlier, it gets the best of us. Although she knows in her heart she did nothing wrong, she still blames herself and allows her vision to be blurred. She forgets who she is and what she represents. Has this happened to you? If it has, here are a few things I'm going to tell you to get you out of that foggy slump:

Pray. This is by far number one on my list. Yes, everyone has different beliefs. But it will never hurt you to pray about your situation. (another little secret: God already knows where you're going and what will be the outcome of your current relationship/situation. Your life has already been designed by him. Just talk to him. He may not answer back right away, but he'll let you know he's listening eventually, just wait and see) He's looking at you right now saying, "This one is special, I'm taking care of her."

Love yourself unconditionally. Self-love is beyond important. When you make yourself a top priority, it is hard for anyone to make you less on their priority list.

Stop overthinking your situation. When we're sad or down, that feeling is increased with overthinking. So stop! And breathe *wooooosah*

Remind yourself of your life's accomplishments. The ones you acquired before you were involved or in a relationship. Whether that was finishing college, getting closer to God, raising a child, starting a small business, being employee of the month at work, whatever your accomplishments are focus on your personal success stories and know that you are beyond capable of absolutely anything you want to do. Always do your best. You've already accomplished so much, imagine the endless opportunities still waiting with your name written all over them!

Never forget your worth. Realize it, accept it and take pride in it. There is not a single person on this Earth like you. Not one. When you are fully aware of your self-worth, it can only positively affect everything and anything going on in your life. Knowing your worth means knowing what you deserve. Stay true to yourself and you'll get what you deserve.

Be yourself at all times, in every environment. Continue to be the understanding, loving, giving, self-sufficient woman you are. With those characteristics in your demeanor, you will effortlessly prosper. A woman like you, one that can stand on her own two feet, is more likely to get swept off them.

I'm a sucker for love myself. I love to love. And yes I, too, love hard. But you must also remember when you love yourself completely, that is the most untouchable trait you can obtain. Loving yourself is fabulous in itself.
To each and every one of you reading this, whatever it is you may be going through or that you may encounter in your ventures of life and love, you will be just fine because you are in control of your happiness. And....
If it is meant to be, it will always be. 

The diva herself, Mariah Carey, once said, 

"And if you keep falling down 
don't you dare give in 
You will arise safe and sound
 So keep pressing on steadfastly 
And you'll find what you'll need to prevail 
Once you say 
I can make it through the rain 
I can stand up once again 
On my own and I know 
That I'm strong enough to mend 
And every time I feel afraid 
I hold tighter to my faith." 

Be strong, Be confident, Be you. God Bless & Stay tuned...

Britaña

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding -Proverbs 3:5

Did you get your tickets??

....TO THE GUN SHOW!

   Spring-time has made her grand entrance and we all know what that means, Summer will be moving her on over to steal the show before we know it. What's the first thing on every female's mind come this time of year? "Hello rompers, maxi-dresses and daisy dukes!" How about "Yikes! These legs of mine need a tan!" Right about now, I'm sure a lot of you are also endlessly searching websites for that perfect bikini to sport at the pool/beach this Summer season.

   BUT once you purchase that teenie bikini, you realize you got a little too comfortable under all those layers of clothing during Winter. And slowly creeping from the back burner are everyone's two favorite words: DIET and EXERCISE. Yea, I know I'm right, because I'm completely guilty when it comes to Winterization. (*Britaña-dictionary* Winterization: Hiding under cute bulky sweaters and scarves, while enjoying daily, calorie-loaded cups of white mocha, licking the sugar off your fingertips after devouring biscochitos, and of course not worrying about whether you'll look good in a bikini or not because who cares that's like 5 months away anyway. YUP, good ole "Winterization") So let's cut to the chase here ladies (and gents TOO) the warm weather is here and it's time to get down to business! Here's a few helpful tips to get back into shape! Enjoy!

1.
   That teenie bikini I was talking about up above....BUY it! Hang it up somewhere where you can see it everyday. Use it as motivation. When you see it say, "I'm going to look SO good in you this Summer."
My fave bikini websites:

http://www.beachbunnyswimwear.com/

http://www.havefaith.com/

http://www.chynadolls.com

http://www.victoriassecret.com/swimwear

2.
  Keep a Journal. Organization is key to a successful diet/exercise lifestyle. Mine is Hello Kitty of course.  I like to jot down what I'm eating for the week, my specific workout routines for the day, inspirational quotes and most importantly my goals. This should be a 2nd Bible to you.

3.
   Subscribe to a health magazine. Self and Oxygen are my faves. Talk about great recipes, workout routines and advice! Not to mention the females on the covers of these magazines look INCREDIBLE. I like to cut out some of the pictures of these women and tape them inside my journal too!

4.
   Exercise. It's a must. And it must be a package deal with a diet, or you're simply not going to see results. Though most of the time, the best bodies you observe are only 25% exercise, 75% diet, believe it or not. Do some research on proper ways to lift weights, yoga/pilates moves, etc. and simply have fun with it!

Here's a great website for exercise tips: 

http://www.shapefit.com

   My favorite iPhone/iTouch app for exercising (and it's FREE!)
NIKE TRAINING CLUB
I love this app because it even has little tutorial videos to show you how to properly lift weights and correct form on all the routines. My best friend Gladys told me about this! (hi bestie!)

5.

   And don't forget to create awesome playlists to jam out to while you're working out. Trust me, even Whitney Houston "I wanna dance with somebody" has pushed me to finish a hard workout! Music makes all the difference!

I don't know why but the chorus gets me so pumped up! I love Whit <3 

6.
   Drink LOTS of water. In the words of Bobby Booshay, "Now that's what I call high quality H20." This important piece to the Summer-body puzzle is probably the hardest for me. For some reason, drinking lots of water has always been a toughie in my book. I've never really liked sodas. I do like juices, teas and gatorade. But when it came to water, I just couldn't bring myself to LOVE it. So if you are sinking in that same boat I was, here are some helpful tricks.
-Put your water in cool water bottles! (Reusable ones too, be kind to our environment) Colorful ones! Or those awesome SIGG water bottles! Sounds cheesy, but it really does help! If you choose a colorful water bottle, one that is still see-through, throw a couple slices of lemon/limes in there. Not only does it taste great, but the slices make it look more appealing too.

7.   

   Eat fresh. Eat clean. I'm not a nutritionist, but I can tell you that I do know what makes my body feel good and look good. You must plan ahead and know what you're going to be eating, so you don't find yourself in the fast food drive-thru ordering something that is no buenooo. Now, I won't tell you exactly what to eat because everyone's preferences and bodies are different. But I have gained a lot of knowledge from Tosca Reno's books. Hit up Barnes & Noble or Borders, her books flood the shelves. Check out the Eat-Clean Diet. It's not a diet, it's a lifestyle. I'd tell you to say Britaña sent you, but that won't get you a discount ;-)

   "So Britaña, what about a cheat day?" Heck yes you get a cheat day! A cheat day shouldn't be too crazy, but if you feel like enjoying a slice of pizza after a week of straight chicken, fish and veggies....EAT THE SLICE! Read the books and check out the websites I posted up above and they'll definitely fill you in on the importance of confusing your metabolism with a cheat day! Start to explore, be inspired and have fun with your new health choices.

You have one life, one body; why not make it amazing?

Until next time my loves...

Britaña 

In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9

I aspire to inspire you...

   Hello there! And can I just tell you thank you for stopping by my very first (ahhh yes, THEE first) post. I have been contemplating for quite some time on what it would contain. I pondered on the idea of a makeup tutorial. But eh, that's a little much for my first post right? So i took the pencil and rapidly marked that idea off the list, and moved it to a later date. So, onto plan B (or so I thought), maybe an outfit of the day post? But lately with school and work getting the best of me, my personal look of choice is an ever so fashionable pair of grey sweat pants, a comfy white v-neck t-shirt, my favorite pair of hot pink Nikes and to top this award-winning outfit off, a messy pony tail at the crown of my noggin. So yet again, grabbed the #2 pencil and yup, you guessed it, onto PLAN C. Hmmm...what to write about, what to explain, what to describe, what to brag about, what to debate upon, what to INSPIRE you with. With that said and in accordance of my itty bitty bio over there on the right hand side: I am simple. And I will make this first post just that; simple.   (don't go shrugging those shoulders quite just yet, my creativity will come alive soon. *promise*)

   My name is Britaña. If you can't pronounce it, I am totally ok with being called Brianna, Brittany, Brittanica and anything else your minds force your tongues to believe my name is. I've come to terms with my name being rarely pronounced correctly. But for you overachievers out there, here ya go for future reference: (Bri-TAWN-ya) Simple, see! Don't let Mr. "~" over my "N" intimidate you! 

   I am a Broadcast Journalism/Spanish Major from the University of New Mexico. Yes, I like to be on TV. And yes I love the camera, a whole lot. Andddd yes I love to talk, a whole lot. I mean it's a pretty awesome deal...you get to use your voice, your personality and your wit to deliver messages and ideas to other people. Super cool right?? Oh and sí sí, I am bilingual. ¡Hola hermosas y guapos! 

   I graduate May 14th (my countdown is officially at 42 days) and I could not be more appreciative of the education I have had the privilege of acquiring.  GO LOBOS! 

Priorities: 

God. (My faith is numero uno) 

My family (you'll meet them on here soon). 

My career (Miss 21st century/workaholic. Call it what you want to call it, I love to work.) 

Interests:

Love & Happiness (without it who are we and what are we good for?) 

Physical Fitness

Culture Diversity 

Health Food/Clean eating
Cooking/Discovering new recipes
Volunteering

People. Every single one of you.

Books. (TONS of books)

Television
Basketball
Children

Social Networking (twitter.com/britanacampos)

Photography
Celebrity trends

Technology
Musicaaaa

Makeup, Bargain Shopping, Hello Kitty...you know girlie things!

  I will intertwine my priorities and my interests in my posts to come; to create something for you to pop in on every now and then. And I hope that someday in my future blog posts I will teach you something you may not have already known, give you advice on something you may be doubting or debating, show you something that you could relate to or simply allow you to spark a new interest with fun and intriguing topics. And last but certainly not least, I aspire to inspire you. If I can do any one of those even just a teenie tiny bit, then my goal of this blog will be accomplished. 

God Bless & stay tuned,

Britaña    (or "Britannica"...after all who wouldn't want to be referred to as an encyclopedia?) 

"Courage is not the absence of fear, but the strength to do what is right in the face of it."