In my mid forties, I got into the best shape I’ve ever been in. The company I was running marketing for was sold and I was laid off. So I had the time to work out every day — even if it meant walking on resting days. I had the time to read books on exercise and eating right. I had the time to cook my own balanced meals with creativity and without additives, extra sodium, extra fat. Basically, at what I hope to be mid-life, I found myself feeling younger, motivated, inspired and empowered. I’m still a big fan of moderation, and pizza remains one of my favorite foods, but I believe in moderation and in the 85% rule of eating healthy. I know plenty of people who get up at 5am to work out before heading to work, everyday. Waking up at 5 am is not me. I’ve battled the extra 15- 20 pounds for most of my life…. So losing it took a lot of energy and focus. But I was hellbent on doing it. And doing it in a way that works for me. And I’m hellbent on keeping it all off for good.

While I still enjoy a great meal out, or a not so healthy meal in, most of my meals are pretty healthy – meaning low calorie, low fat, low or no sugar, and mostly gluten-free. I believe flavor is essential.  And with a little planning and desire to create, you can cook healthy, good food too. During this time, I also got serious about my workouts and incorporated weight training 2-3 times a week, which burn calories and fat, and is healthy for bones. I cook my lunches (and bring them to work) so that I can stay away from the carb-, fat- and additive-centric bought lunches.   I have transformed how I eat (85% of the time), cook and my activity level and I know how wonderful I feel, how motivated I am and how much better I look.

I have always loved to cook and entertain. It is my mission here with this blog to offer you devilishly good recipes and tips for cooking healthy meals…with some worthwhile splurges added in along the way. I will also share with you books, products and inspiration from around the web and world. My vision is motivated, healthy-minded people who cook up a life of moderation and spice. If you are “Hellbent,” healthy isn’t boring or bland.

Hellbent Living is about living and eating healthy… 85% of the time. 85% healthy; 15% naughty! That’s living The devilishly good life!

I hope you will try the recipes and tips and leave comments for me and the entire Hellbent community.  Please note that the products I write about are my preferences; I am not paid to write about them.  Also, if you have any ideas for Hellbent Living, please feel free to contact me at Leslie@HellbentLiving.com.

Enjoy!

Leslie