November 29: I am thankful for holiday movies. Tonight after a long day of work at the Las Vegas auto show, I came back to my hotel room, put my feet up, and began surfing the channels. I found so many holiday movies, I settled of This Christmas. I've never seen it before. But I watched it, cried, and felt all warm and fuzzy and ready for the holidays. I am grateful for holiday movies and music that help put me in the holiday spirit!
November 30: As the month comes to an end, I am thankful for my job. The flexibility it awards me, the travel time, the quiet mommy time on the road, the fun laughs with co-workers and consumers, but most importantly, I am thankful for coming home from my job... I love coming home to my family. I miss them so much when I am on the road. I am grateful to be wrapping up my last show of 2013 tomorrow, and heading home. All the wonderful places I've been, nothing is like coming home!
Even though November is ending, you don't have to stop being thankful. Remember to begin every day with a smile, calmness of mind, coolness of emotions, and a heart filled with gratitude!!
What are you thankful for?
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Thursday, November 28, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 28... Thanksgiving Day!
November 28: Happy Thanksgiving! Happy Chanukah! Today, I am thankful for so much... Just look back over the month, that's just the tip of the iceberg though. Of course, I am thankful for life, health, and happiness. I am thankful for my family and friends, and for the those I don't know. I am thankful for all of the many blessings God and the universe continue to bestow upon us. I am also thankful for Self Soul Space, and the readers. Thank you for checking in, following, and reading about my way of living and my journey towards a healthier life. This Thanksgiving and Chanukah, I wish you and your loved ones a Happy and Healthy Holiday season, and may you be blessed with all that your heart desires. Thank you for supporting Self Soul Space!
A Thankful November: Day 26 & 27
November 26: I am thankful for my daughters' swim instructor. Miss Amanda has been working with Jordan and Mia for about 2 years now. She is amazing teacher, my daughters don't just love playing in the pool, they really love to see how many laps they can swim now. She has taken them from little, splashing guppies, to lap-swimming, water-confident fish. Thank you, Amanda! We all are truly grateful for you!!
November 27: I am thankful for quality time with my mom, Jereline. Today, my mother & I spent the day just hanging out. We had an awesome brunch at the Hollywood diner, then we took care of a little Christmas shopping, and had an awesome pre-thanksgiving dinner at the Columbus Inn. All while dodging, freezing rain and a bit of snow. Even though it was cold, we had warm laughs and conversations! I am grateful for fun days with her!
November 27: I am thankful for quality time with my mom, Jereline. Today, my mother & I spent the day just hanging out. We had an awesome brunch at the Hollywood diner, then we took care of a little Christmas shopping, and had an awesome pre-thanksgiving dinner at the Columbus Inn. All while dodging, freezing rain and a bit of snow. Even though it was cold, we had warm laughs and conversations! I am grateful for fun days with her!
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Wellness Wednesday
Happy Wednesday! Happy Hanukkah, and Happy (early) Thanksgiving! With the holiday season off to a start, I just wanted to share a few tips that have helped me survive many of holiday dinners and stay well....
Don't skip breakfast, no matter how large of a meal you are anticipating.
Be a taste tester, sample foods and don't over load your plate.
Get up and move, challenge the family to a just dance competition, a game of touch football, or go for a walk (or maybe even run in turkey trot race).
Choose fruit for dessert, avoid the pecan pie, or German chocolate cake, look for the fruit crisp or pumpkin pie... Skip the a la mode.
Don't over eat, leftovers are a wonderful thing, save some of those calories for another day.
Keep the dinner conversations light and positive. Remember the true reasons for the season, and be grateful for your many blessings... Yes, that means no obnoxious family gossip, and avoid politics. Plus stressful conversations can lead to indigestion... And no one wants that!
Most importantly, enjoy your holiday season... May it be merry and bright! Stay well!
Monday, November 25, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 25
November 25: I am thankful for the innocence and hopes of children. Tonight, my daughters wrote their letters to Santa. I love their true belief in him and his magic, their hope he will give every boy and girl a wonderful Christmas, and their desire to help others in need have a nice holiday season. I am grateful for it, it's amazing how the belief in such magic comes back alive inside of me. I hope no one ever takes their hopes, dreams, innocence, and belief in magic and miracles away from them.
Smoothie Recipe: Daily Fruit & Vegetables in One
I've always been curious how many vegetables and fruit should I be eating everyday. I found that the CDC has a great fruit and vegetable serving calculator on their website. You type in your age, gender, and activity level... then it spits out your daily recommendation. For me, it recommended 2 cups of fruit and 2.5 cups of vegetables. So, I thought, wouldn't it be great if I could put it into one meal! Then whatever other fruits and vegetables I have, will be icing on the cake! That's how, I came up with this green smoothie recipe. I split this smoothie up into two, and I drank one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Now, its green... but refreshing... might swap banana for an apple next time around.
Daily Fruit & Vegetables in One
Makes 2 small adult smoothies, or 1 big adult smoothie
Ingredients
12 baby carrots (counts as 1 Veg serving)
1 1/2 c baby spinach, packed ( counts as 1.5 Veg serving)
1 stalk celery, cut (counts as 1/2 veg serving)
1/2 cucumber, cut (counts as 1/2 veg serving)
1 c water
1 banana (counts as 1 fruit serving)
1 c pineapple chunks, frozen (counts as 1 fruit serving)
1 tbsp ground flaxseed
Directions
Add Carrots, Spinach, celery, cucumber, and water to blender, and liquefy. Then add flaxseed, banana, and pineapple, and blend until desired consistency. Pour and enjoy!!
Daily Fruit & Vegetables in One
Makes 2 small adult smoothies, or 1 big adult smoothie
Ingredients
12 baby carrots (counts as 1 Veg serving)
1 1/2 c baby spinach, packed ( counts as 1.5 Veg serving)
1 stalk celery, cut (counts as 1/2 veg serving)
1/2 cucumber, cut (counts as 1/2 veg serving)
1 c water
1 banana (counts as 1 fruit serving)
1 c pineapple chunks, frozen (counts as 1 fruit serving)
1 tbsp ground flaxseed
Directions
Add Carrots, Spinach, celery, cucumber, and water to blender, and liquefy. Then add flaxseed, banana, and pineapple, and blend until desired consistency. Pour and enjoy!!
Sunday, November 24, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 24
November 24: I work with some really talented people. I am truly thankful for my healthy living friend, and co-worker Carla Sanchez. She is the creator, host, and blogger of Organic Lifestyle Tv. This weekend, Carla let me pick her brain, on everything from blogs to webisodes, and of course our favorite topic, healthy living. I am truly blessed to have people, like Carla around me. I appreciate her continued support! Thank you, mi Amiga!
Saturday, November 23, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 23
November 23: Today, I am thankful for the warm weather of Tampa and central Florida. I have enjoyed my visit here. I've loved sitting on my balcony, walking along the water, the beautiful sunsets, and absorbing the warm sunny days. I am grateful for the nice break from the cold in Delaware.
Friday, November 22, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 20, 21, 22
So, I realized, I am a little behind on my Thankful November posts... Please don't think I have run out of things to be thankful for... I don't think that could ever happened. This week just flew by, literally, to now I am sitting on a balcony in Tampa, sharing the things I am thankful for.
November 20: This might seem silly, but everyone has their favorite show or program on tv... Tonight, I am thankful for mine. I have been a crime drama lover since I was a little kid. I used to watch Perry Mason and Matlock with my Nana. Then when Law & Order hit the screen, my mother and I became instant addicts. I am thankful for the creators of Law & Order, SVU, and Criminal Intent. I am especially grateful for NBC and new episodes of Law & Order SVU... I hope it never goes off the air! I am also thankful for all of the networks that play the old Law & Order episodes and Matlock too!
November 21: I am truly thankful for medical doctors, specialists, and nurses. I am amazed at their knowledge, and dedication to healing the sick, and maintaining the well. I especially am thankful for my team of doctors and nurses that care for me and my family. I love how my medical team listens to my concerns, values my opinion and the way I choose to live. I am truly grateful, Thank you for keeping us well!
November 22: Today, I am thankful for girl talk and vent sessions. I actually am a pretty private person, there are things that bother me, hurt me, worry me... And for the most part I keep them inside, until I can release them through meditation or exercising. I don't like confrontation or arguments, and I always try to keep my blood pressure low and a smile on my face. That being said, I am truly grateful for a good laugh or a good cry during a vent chat. I am also thankful for those who listen, when I choose to confide in them. Thank you, for being open, non judgmental, and allowing me to vent when I need to.
What are you thankful for?
November 20: This might seem silly, but everyone has their favorite show or program on tv... Tonight, I am thankful for mine. I have been a crime drama lover since I was a little kid. I used to watch Perry Mason and Matlock with my Nana. Then when Law & Order hit the screen, my mother and I became instant addicts. I am thankful for the creators of Law & Order, SVU, and Criminal Intent. I am especially grateful for NBC and new episodes of Law & Order SVU... I hope it never goes off the air! I am also thankful for all of the networks that play the old Law & Order episodes and Matlock too!
November 21: I am truly thankful for medical doctors, specialists, and nurses. I am amazed at their knowledge, and dedication to healing the sick, and maintaining the well. I especially am thankful for my team of doctors and nurses that care for me and my family. I love how my medical team listens to my concerns, values my opinion and the way I choose to live. I am truly grateful, Thank you for keeping us well!
November 22: Today, I am thankful for girl talk and vent sessions. I actually am a pretty private person, there are things that bother me, hurt me, worry me... And for the most part I keep them inside, until I can release them through meditation or exercising. I don't like confrontation or arguments, and I always try to keep my blood pressure low and a smile on my face. That being said, I am truly grateful for a good laugh or a good cry during a vent chat. I am also thankful for those who listen, when I choose to confide in them. Thank you, for being open, non judgmental, and allowing me to vent when I need to.
What are you thankful for?
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 19
November 19: I just wrapped my evening meditation, and I was thinking... Wow, we are all healthy...I don't hear any coughs, any sniffling, and fortunately we haven't suffered any major illnesses or injuries... Thank you, Jesus! I am truly blessed and appreciative for my and my family's health. At times, it takes work to maintain or improve it, but I am grateful for our health. I am also thankful for those who are on a journey to live a healthier life. You only get one chance on this planet, why not make it your best! I am thankful for a healthy mind, body, soul, and environment... And I wish the same blessing for all.
For those I may or may not know, who are battling illness or a health crisis... I send you healing and healthy thoughts, as well as strength to get through your health challenge.
For those I may or may not know, who are battling illness or a health crisis... I send you healing and healthy thoughts, as well as strength to get through your health challenge.
Mushroom Soup
This yummy recipe is in honor of my husband. He loves mushrooms! Plus it is a meatless dish, so great for Meatless Monday! This Mushroom Soup is warm, filling, and perfect for cold evenings. I served it with a side salad and some yummy, warm bread.
Mushroom Soup
Serves 6, total time 60 min
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp butter
1 small sweet onion, chopped
5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 tsp thyme, dried
2 tsp dried parsley, plus additional to top
8 oz Bella Brown Baby Crimini mushrooms
8 oz white button mushrooms, sliced
4 c fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth
1 bay leaf
Kosher salt & Cracked black pepper, to taste
1/4 c skim milk
Directions
Heat oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a large stock pot, over medium heat. Add onion and saute for for 5 min. Add garlic, thyme, salt/pepper, and parsley, saute for another 5 min.
Add Mushrooms and remaining butter, then cook for about 15 min, until tender, stirring occasionally.
Add broth and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer for 20-30 min. Stir in a little more salt/pepper. Remove bay leaf. Let stand for 5 min.
Place 1/4 of mushroom mixture in a blender, and puree. Pour in a bowl, and set aside, repeat with another 1/4 of the soup, leaving about half the soup whole. Pour and stir pureed soup back into pot. Or keep soup in pot, and use an immersion blender. Then fold in milk. Serve, and garnish with additional parsley. Maybe top with sour cream, if you would like.
Mushroom Soup
Serves 6, total time 60 min
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil4 tbsp butter
1 small sweet onion, chopped
5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 tsp thyme, dried
2 tsp dried parsley, plus additional to top
8 oz Bella Brown Baby Crimini mushrooms
8 oz white button mushrooms, sliced
4 c fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth
1 bay leaf
Kosher salt & Cracked black pepper, to taste
1/4 c skim milk
Directions
Heat oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a large stock pot, over medium heat. Add onion and saute for for 5 min. Add garlic, thyme, salt/pepper, and parsley, saute for another 5 min.
Add Mushrooms and remaining butter, then cook for about 15 min, until tender, stirring occasionally.Add broth and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer for 20-30 min. Stir in a little more salt/pepper. Remove bay leaf. Let stand for 5 min.
Place 1/4 of mushroom mixture in a blender, and puree. Pour in a bowl, and set aside, repeat with another 1/4 of the soup, leaving about half the soup whole. Pour and stir pureed soup back into pot. Or keep soup in pot, and use an immersion blender. Then fold in milk. Serve, and garnish with additional parsley. Maybe top with sour cream, if you would like.
Monday, November 18, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 17 & 18
November 17: Sunday was a long, busy day! I wrapped up the Nashville auto show, then headed straight to the airport to fly to Charlotte then home. After a day filled with a noisy convention center and 2 noisy airports... I am thankful for the quiet times, that are hidden in the midst of chaos. Sneaking a quiet moment away off the show floor during a break, finding a quiet seat in bustling airport, and enjoying the quiet time on a packed airplane. I appreciate quiet time, no matter how short or how long. There's an old saying that says, when a loud room gets quiet all of a sudden, an angel has entered the room. I love this thought, so I look for and am grateful for the quiet moments of each day, and the angel visits.
November 18: Today, I am thankful for family dinner. Yes, I am grateful for the food we have on our table, but more importantly, I am grateful for the time of day my husband, my kids, and I sit down for family dinner. No matter how fast or home cooked the meal, I truly enjoy this time we can come together and talk about our day... Away from the TV and away from electronics. We try very hard to make sure, we sit down to dinner almost every night... And I love it! I am also thankful for family dinners that include our parents and extended family, and of course those wonderful holiday dinners that are coming up soon. I learn so much from our dinners, and I look forward to them everyday!
November 18: Today, I am thankful for family dinner. Yes, I am grateful for the food we have on our table, but more importantly, I am grateful for the time of day my husband, my kids, and I sit down for family dinner. No matter how fast or home cooked the meal, I truly enjoy this time we can come together and talk about our day... Away from the TV and away from electronics. We try very hard to make sure, we sit down to dinner almost every night... And I love it! I am also thankful for family dinners that include our parents and extended family, and of course those wonderful holiday dinners that are coming up soon. I learn so much from our dinners, and I look forward to them everyday!
Saturday, November 16, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 16
November 16: Today is a total pregnancy thankful post... I am thankful for this wonderful snack from Barry's Bakery! 
My dear friend and carpool buddy, Erin, gave these to me for my flight to Nashville! OMG, they are so good and vegan! I had to smack my hand after I ate half the bag. I am so thankful for yummy, low calorie snacks like this!! And thankful for friends like Erin, who know what I like, and share their finds with me! Try them!
Friday, November 15, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 15
November 15: I am thankful for salad! Big, small, side, field greens, romaine, ice berg... Any & all salads! No matter where you are, even the most unhealthiest fast food places, a salad is always a healthier option and usually available. Today, there was only 1 concession stand at the convention center... You had a few choices, a few different BBQ mystery meats, chips, cookies, or a salad. I was so grateful for the salad option. It didn't contain much, romaine lettuce, candied walnuts, and chicken breast, with a creamy mystery dressing. Wouldn't you know, it was actually pretty good, and a healthier choice for both me & baby Thayer. It also didn't upset my stomach, and for that I am really grateful! I think I'll be eating that same salad tomorrow & Sunday!
A Thankful November: Day 14
November 14: After a long busy day, I was sitting on my Usairways flight heading to Nashville, I was thinking what am I thankful for today? Today, I am thankful for kind, personable customer service personnel. I encountered the kindest people today in the Philadelphia airport, and many times it's not that way. I first, am thankful for the kind, pregnant TSA agent who did my pat down... Thank you for cracking jokes and being non-judgmental for me opting out of the screener. I am thankful for the kind cashier at the Magazine stand. I appreciate your enthusiasm for collecting donations for the troops and your friendly smile. I am thankful for the friendly, comedic gate agent, who made boarding fun! I am thankful for kind flight attendant, who went back to the galley to get me 2 cups of hot water. I am also, of course, thankful for the pilots who were friendly during boarding and deplaning, and for getting us in 30 minutes early! I am always thankful for kind, friendly, funny, helpful people who work in a customer service position, because I work in customer service. So whether you are the customer or the service provider, remember kindness and a smile go a long way... Life's too short to be a mean negative Nancy... Think about that the next time you encounter a new customer or a new service employee behind the counter... And be thankful for them.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 13
November 13: I am thankful for my meditation practice. I love meditation, as I've mentioned before. I am grateful for its ability to clear my head, create peace around me, and most of all it gives me a sense of calm inside my body. I am also grateful for the ability to share one of my favorite activities with others, through my BodyFlow class and on Self Soul Space. I encourage everyone to try a few minutes of meditation, you'll love it and feel as thankful as I do... Now, it's time for me to sign into day 3 of Deepak Chopra & Oprah's Destiny & Desire Meditation Challenge... I am also thankful for Deepak Chopra for offering his wisdom, completely free for 21 days... Namaste!
Wellness Wednesday
On this Wellness Wednesday, my tip is for you to stay safe while outdoors! Remembering a few safety rules will help you enjoy and get the most from your outdoor workout, especially as the days get shorter.
Wear bright and shiny. Use reflective gear that slips over your clothes, like bibs, belts, or bands to wear on your arms or legs. They’re so lightweight you won’t notice them, but oncoming motorists will. Even wearing a white T-shirt over your outfit will make you more noticeable.
Walk or run in well lit public parks, that host a lot of activity, such as those with sports facilities, pet areas, or playgrounds.
It’s best to use sidewalks and paths, but if you must go on the road, be sure to face oncoming traffic to see what’s headed your way. Go against traffic at all times.
Assume drivers don’t see you or are on their cell phones. As a pedestrian you may have the right-of-way, but many drivers don’t know this or aren’t paying attention. Waiting a few seconds to cross a street isn’t a big deal when you consider the consequences.
Workout with someone. Beside the other benefits of pairing up, having a companion means safety in numbers for both of you. If you don’t have a partner, tell someone where you’ll be and what time you expect to return.
Stay well this Wednesday, take your workout outside, and enjoy the fresh, crisp, fall air!
Wear bright and shiny. Use reflective gear that slips over your clothes, like bibs, belts, or bands to wear on your arms or legs. They’re so lightweight you won’t notice them, but oncoming motorists will. Even wearing a white T-shirt over your outfit will make you more noticeable.
Walk or run in well lit public parks, that host a lot of activity, such as those with sports facilities, pet areas, or playgrounds.
It’s best to use sidewalks and paths, but if you must go on the road, be sure to face oncoming traffic to see what’s headed your way. Go against traffic at all times.
Assume drivers don’t see you or are on their cell phones. As a pedestrian you may have the right-of-way, but many drivers don’t know this or aren’t paying attention. Waiting a few seconds to cross a street isn’t a big deal when you consider the consequences.
Workout with someone. Beside the other benefits of pairing up, having a companion means safety in numbers for both of you. If you don’t have a partner, tell someone where you’ll be and what time you expect to return.
Stay well this Wednesday, take your workout outside, and enjoy the fresh, crisp, fall air!
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 12
November 12: I am thankful for exercise and fitness... It is my outlet. I am grateful for the ability to incorporate it into my daily life. I am thankful for my BodyFlow class and my participants. I am grateful for running and walking. I appreciate my local YMCA and it's staff. I truly appreciate all that fitness and physical activity does for my health, my body, my sanity, and my strength (both inner and muscular). I am so glad my children enjoy being active too! Fitness is great for anyone, and everyone... once you add it to your daily life, you'll be thankful for it too!
Meanwhile, I'm off to teach BodyFlow at 7:30pm at the BG YMCA, who is in?
Meanwhile, I'm off to teach BodyFlow at 7:30pm at the BG YMCA, who is in?
Thayer Favorite: Chicken Stir-fry
I love fast, healthy recipes. My chicken stir-fry is a regular dish in our house. We love all of the veggies, we serve it over brown rice. However, most traditional stir-fry dishes contain soy sauce and sesame oil... Which are no-no's in our house, because of allergies. So, with our seasonings, and the juice from the veggies, you don't really miss the soy or the sesame. Sometimes on Meatless Mondays, I omit the chicken and we just have veggie stir-fry. I hope this recipe becomes a regular in your home.
Chicken Stir-fry
Serves 6, time: 30 min total
Ingredients
2 tbs olive oil
2 large boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 large zucchini, cut into 1/2 pieces
1 large yellow squash, cut into 1/2 pieces
15-20 baby carrots, halved
1 container sliced mushrooms
Salt & pepper
Garlic powder
Directions
Heat oil in a large non-stick pan. Season chicken with S & P, and maybe a little garlic powder.
Brown chicken pieces, then pull chicken out and set aside when cooked completely. (7min)
Using the same pan, add garlic, carrots, and mushrooms, and sauté until a little tender. (5min)
Add a little S & P.
Then add zucchini and squash, continue to sauté, until tender. (5min)
Add cooked chicken pieces, and a little more S & P, cook until flavors combine. (3min)
Serve over brown rice, enjoy!
Chicken Stir-fry
Serves 6, time: 30 min total
Ingredients
2 tbs olive oil
2 large boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 large zucchini, cut into 1/2 pieces
1 large yellow squash, cut into 1/2 pieces
15-20 baby carrots, halved
1 container sliced mushrooms
Salt & pepper
Garlic powder
Directions
Heat oil in a large non-stick pan. Season chicken with S & P, and maybe a little garlic powder.
Brown chicken pieces, then pull chicken out and set aside when cooked completely. (7min)
Using the same pan, add garlic, carrots, and mushrooms, and sauté until a little tender. (5min)
Add a little S & P.
Then add zucchini and squash, continue to sauté, until tender. (5min)
Add cooked chicken pieces, and a little more S & P, cook until flavors combine. (3min)
Serve over brown rice, enjoy!
*Feel free to add soy sauce, once food is plated or during cooking of all veggies and chicken.
Monday, November 11, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 11
Well, it's Veterans Day.... So, I think Today's post is obvious.
November 11: I am thankful for all of the military personnel who serve and protect our country and our freedoms. Retired, wounded, active duty, reserves, and those that are no longer with us... All veterans... Thank you! A day off, shopping sales, and a free meal, can't really express the gratitude that I and the rest of the country have for all that you do and did. But none the less, enjoy your day of honor!
I am especially thankful for my father, Cliff, a Navy Veteran!
For my gramps: Charles, an Air Force Veteran
For my Cousin: Martin, a Army Veteran & active Reserve member
For my Friends: Clarence, an Active duty Army Service man; and Troy, an Army Veteran who works in Veteran Affairs.
And all of my friends and family that have served our country!
And all of my friends and family that have served our country!
A Thankful November: Day 10
I have got to remember to post these before I go to sleep, lol...
November 10: I am thankful for my Aunts and Uncles! Today, my Aunt Susan came to visit, even though we missed church, I appreciate her driving up from Maryland to spend the day with us (especially play with J & M for hours). All of my Aunts & uncles give us so much love & support, I appreciate and love every single one of them. I am so grateful to have so many of you, and that you are in my & my family's life!
*A special note for my ill Aunts and Uncles... I pray everyday for God to heal your bodies, and take away your pain!
Saturday, November 9, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 9
November 9: I am thankful for my friend and cousin, Lenise. Today, we spent more quality family time... Laughing, dancing in my basement, and having girl time. I appreciate her helping me with my overwhelming shopping trip. I am so grateful for her, and our friendship! You can pick your friends, but you can't pick your family... I'm so glad she's my cousin and my friend!!
A Thankful November: Day 8
November 8: I am thankful for the gift of laughter! We had a wonderful Friday evening as a family... Spending quality time, laughing, and just enjoying each other's company. All of us just let our hair down (except D, lol), had fun, and maybe even got a bit silly! I am grateful for being able to hear and enjoy the full belly laughter from my loved ones!
Thursday, November 7, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 6 & 7
I forgot to post this last night after a wellness Wednesday...
November 6: I am thankful for my husband. I am thankful for all that he does, and even what he doesn't do. I appreciate how great of a father he is. I especially love his funny voices when reading to our girls. I appreciate when he takes the trash out and kills the occasional spider or stink bug. He's no 'Mr. fix-it' but he sure can carry a laundry basket up & down the stairs for me, he can even reach the upper-back itch, I can no longer reach. I am thankful for that day in the summer of 1995 when he literally walked into my life. I am grateful for our love!
And here is today's...
November 7: I am thankful for books! Kid books, adult books, fiction and non, cookbooks, e-books, learn to read books, chapter books, picture books, big & little books... All books! I am thankful that books not only educate the youth, but they also educate the old. I love hearing my children learn to read books and I love reading books to them. I appreciate the facts they contain, the places they can take you, and recipes they can share. I am grateful for the colorful pictures they create on the page or in the mind. I am thankful for the ability to read books, and the freedom to read whatever kind of books I would like!
November 6: I am thankful for my husband. I am thankful for all that he does, and even what he doesn't do. I appreciate how great of a father he is. I especially love his funny voices when reading to our girls. I appreciate when he takes the trash out and kills the occasional spider or stink bug. He's no 'Mr. fix-it' but he sure can carry a laundry basket up & down the stairs for me, he can even reach the upper-back itch, I can no longer reach. I am thankful for that day in the summer of 1995 when he literally walked into my life. I am grateful for our love!
And here is today's...
November 7: I am thankful for books! Kid books, adult books, fiction and non, cookbooks, e-books, learn to read books, chapter books, picture books, big & little books... All books! I am thankful that books not only educate the youth, but they also educate the old. I love hearing my children learn to read books and I love reading books to them. I appreciate the facts they contain, the places they can take you, and recipes they can share. I am grateful for the colorful pictures they create on the page or in the mind. I am thankful for the ability to read books, and the freedom to read whatever kind of books I would like!
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Wellness Wednesday
Today I was asked today before yogilates, "you eat before you workout?" (I was carrying an empty Chobani blueberry container). I said "yes, you wouldn’t take a trip, if your car had no gas. Your body works much the same way." Fuel is necessary, but how much? Since it's Wednesday, for our wellness tip, I decide to answer the question...
Choose the light meal or snack. Even if you like to have a light workout before breakfast, have a glass of juice, some whole grain toast, or a bit of low-fat yogurt before heading out. Eating a light, low-fat meal about 1 to 3 hours before your workout will give you the benefit of fuel without stomach trouble.
Now, if you’ve eaten a large meal... Wait. Your body takes several hours to digest fats and proteins. Let your body work on the task at hand — processing your meal — and save your exercise for later.
If you’d like to workout, but you’re between meals, a quick carb-rich snack, like a banana, glass of juice, or whole grain English muffin, about half an hour before exercise should keep you from feeling hungry.
Hope this helps to improve your workout energy and wellness. Here's a little food for thought...
“The way you think, the way you behave, the way you eat, can influence your life by 30 to 50 years.” — Deepak Chopra
Happy Wednesday Friends!
Choose the light meal or snack. Even if you like to have a light workout before breakfast, have a glass of juice, some whole grain toast, or a bit of low-fat yogurt before heading out. Eating a light, low-fat meal about 1 to 3 hours before your workout will give you the benefit of fuel without stomach trouble.
Now, if you’ve eaten a large meal... Wait. Your body takes several hours to digest fats and proteins. Let your body work on the task at hand — processing your meal — and save your exercise for later.
If you’d like to workout, but you’re between meals, a quick carb-rich snack, like a banana, glass of juice, or whole grain English muffin, about half an hour before exercise should keep you from feeling hungry.
Hope this helps to improve your workout energy and wellness. Here's a little food for thought...
“The way you think, the way you behave, the way you eat, can influence your life by 30 to 50 years.” — Deepak Chopra
Happy Wednesday Friends!
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Smoothie Recipe: Banana Berry
This is one of my favorite smoothies, the perfect wake up smoothie. I make this often, as a matter of fact, I made it this morning!
Banana Berry Smoothie
Makes 1 adult smoothie
Ingredients
1 cup vanilla almond milk
1/2 cup packed baby spinach
1 tbs ground flaxseed
1 banana
4 whole strawberries
1/2 cup blueberries (frozen or fresh)
1/4 cup frozen raspberries
Directions
Blend almond milk, spinach, flaxseed, and banana. Add berries, and blend until desired consistency. Pour and enjoy!!
Sorry, I forgot to snap a photo... Drank it too fast, lol. I'll try to remember to add one, the next time I make it.
Banana Berry Smoothie
Makes 1 adult smoothie
Ingredients
1 cup vanilla almond milk
1/2 cup packed baby spinach
1 tbs ground flaxseed
1 banana
4 whole strawberries
1/2 cup blueberries (frozen or fresh)
1/4 cup frozen raspberries
Directions
Blend almond milk, spinach, flaxseed, and banana. Add berries, and blend until desired consistency. Pour and enjoy!!
Sorry, I forgot to snap a photo... Drank it too fast, lol. I'll try to remember to add one, the next time I make it.
A Thankful November: Day 5
November 5: I am thankful for the school my daughters attend. I am grateful for the teachers who are educating my girls and their peers. I appreciate the office staff, the school nurse, and of course Sister (the principal). Our school is small enough that every family knows every family, that we feel like one big family! But with enough diversity that we are all unique, and my daughters learn about new cultures every day! I love the fact that everything my daughters are learning will not only make them better students, but also better Christians. They come home excited with new information, new prayers, new spelling words, and new ways to make better choices. I couldn't ask for a better school. Thank you for educating my daughters and making us feel like a part of family!!
Monday, November 4, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 4
November 4: Today, I am thankful for my children. I am grateful for the joy they bring into my life everyday! I am amazed by their talents and impressed by their strength. I love their emotion, and live for their smiles. They are both so caring, loving, well mannered, passionate, and funny... That even when they are not at their best, I still love to be around them. I appreciate all that they do at home, in school, and out & about. I am thankful for my children (born & unborn).
What are you thankful for today?
A Thankful November: Day 3
November 3: Today is Sunday, I am actually in Camden at my parents house and when thinking of the many things I am thankful for, it hit me... Duh, I am thankful for my parents... All of my parents! Some of you might know how many parents I actually have, if not, I will tell you, 7. To say the least, I am truly blessed in the parent department. I am thankful for my mother, Jereline. I am thankful for my father, Clifton. I am thankful for my stepmother, Terry. I am thankful for my in-laws, Harry and Colleen. I am grateful for all of the love and support they continuely give us. I am also thankful for my birth parents, Lori & Chris.
What are you thankful for?
What are you thankful for?
Saturday, November 2, 2013
A Thankful November: Day 2
November 2: I am thankful for my home state of Delaware! I love the east coast, and being centrally located between all of the the major east coast cities. The weather in Delaware is always beautiful, even on the rainy days! I am thankful for the change in season and the historical landmarks. I am thankful for Delaware business, no sales tax, and for kind, fellow Delawareans! I love my home state, the first state, Delaware!
What are you thankful for today?
What are you thankful for today?
A Thankful November
Happy November! I hope everyone enjoyed the rest of their October! Halloween was fun in the Thayer household, and not too much candy, yay! We love spending holidays with family and Halloween was no different, trick-or-treating with the Simmonds Family and the Young Family.
But since it's now November, a month where many Americans focus on giving thanks, I figured Self Soul Space would join in.... 30 days of being thankful. Can you think of 30 different things to be thankful for? Now, Self Soul Space encourages you to be thankful everyday of the year, not just in November. But how can you make these 30 days special or different? Maybe share your 30 days of thankfulness with someone, or show how grateful you are by giving back. This November, I am challenging my family to join me. Every night before bed, we will share what we are thankful for. You can never start too early in teaching kids to be appreciative and grateful for the many blessings that surround them.
November 1. I am thankful for the gift of life! I am grateful to wake up every morning and see a new day. I am thankful for the lives of my daughters and my husband, as well as the rest of my family and friends. I am also thankful for the gift of life that is growing inside of me. The gift of life is everywhere around us, so enjoy the gift of life, take care of the gift, and be thankful.
November 1. I am thankful for the gift of life! I am grateful to wake up every morning and see a new day. I am thankful for the lives of my daughters and my husband, as well as the rest of my family and friends. I am also thankful for the gift of life that is growing inside of me. The gift of life is everywhere around us, so enjoy the gift of life, take care of the gift, and be thankful.