Tasty Tuesday Treat #40

This past weekend I traveled down to Washington, D.C. to celebrate my cousin's amazing accomplishment!  She graduated from Marymount University with her Nursing Degree!  

Wanting to recognize her hard work and dedication, my family and I toasted the new RN at Blue Duck Tavern.  Not only was the food to die for, but the ambiance was also noteworthy.  As patio diners, we were able to sit inside the herb garden and see first hand the seasonings that made our suppers so savory! Such a setting made me want to create my own herb garden!

Considering that my thumb is not even a shade of green, I was not so sure how to embark on this very ambitious gardening quest.  Such confusion dissipated, however, when I read this article that pointed out the easiest herbs and vegetables to grow at home.   

With this article, as well as the inspiration that I received in D.C., I hope to see some sprouts soon!

Mindful Monday Inspiration #40

((Photo Source:  http://lalalovelythings.com/2013/12/la-la-loving-61/))

Fitness Friday Fact #40

Even though I do not get a 2.5 month summer vacation anymore, I cannot help but get giddy about the start of the warm weather season.  With the official kick off happening next week, my plans for bike riding, swimming and ice cream eating are in full swing!

While thinking of those kid approved activities, I was inspired to find a way to incorporate a sunshine sport into my fitness routine.  My quest ended upon stumbling across this hip slimming hula hoop exercise 

Not only will the twists tone midsections, but the childish pastime will certainly be reminiscent of summer vacations past! 

((Photo Source:  http://www.realsimple.com/health/fitness-exercise/workouts/hula-hoop-exercise-00000000057576/))

Thursday's Trend Alert Dirt Report #39

Has coconut water met its match?!

Apparently the "latest and greatest" in the world of water is Maple Water.  Maple Water is the byproduct of tapped maple trees.  The liquid beverage is not syrupy, sticky, or overly sweet, rather it is a refreshing beverage for those looking to shake up their sips.  

With only 20 calories and 4 grams of sugar per 8 oz serving, it would seem that maple water is a better beverage option than coconut water.  Before imbibing, however, consider that with only slightly more calories (54 per 8 oz), coconut water contains more electrolytes, more vitamin C and more calcium than its counterpart.

Whichever you choose, "drink responsibly" ;)

((Photo Source:  http://www.verticalwater.com/))

Wednesday What Not #39

 Work - Life Balance tends to be a hot button issue for most individuals who clock in at 9a and out at 5p.  Knowing all too well that most work days are no longer the stereotypical 9 - 5, being able to shut down when the "happy hour" clock strikes is incredibly difficult.  

The ability to mentally and physically "leave the office" has long been tied to low stress levels and heightened wellness.  Although that connection remains semi-true, a recent study "found that heavier smartphone users experience more stress, but paradoxically, they also rate their lives better."

After digesting this information, I have to admit that I was not shocked by these findings.  Having fretted over "after hour" correspondence in the past, I have relished the ease in responding to emails via smartphone from the comfort of my couch.  Although stress does still accompany the opening of my email box, that negative emotion is replaced by the overall sense of accomplishment as my head hits the pillow at night!

((Photo Source: http://www.wellnesstoday.com/inspiration/work-related-smartphone-use-tied-to-high-stress-levels-study-finds))

Tasty Tuesday Treat #39

After traveling, I look forward to nights where I am able to prepare my own dinner.  I especially love to be able to try new recipes based on what I had tasted while on the road.

Rather than mimicking a restaurant worthy meal last night, I opted for a more simple supper.  My decision to make zucchini noodles with marinara sauce stemmed from the seasonality of the vegetable, as well as the fact that my meat loving husband was not home to dine with me!

Unlike a heavy Spaghetti side, the zucchini noodles were perfect for a warm Spring supper, and took less time to prepare than the traditional italian "il primo."  It was also a nice bonus to know that while noshing on these noodles, I was adding molybdenum to my diet, which is a trace mineral necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates!

**I made my own Marinara Sauce before putting this meal together based on this recipe from Skinny Taste.**

((Photo Source:  http://www.cleaneatingmag.com/recipes/20-minutes-or-less/zucchini-noodles-with-cherry-tomato-marinara/))

Mindful Monday Inspiration #39

Challenging yourself to change is a difficult, yet honorable undertaking.  It requires a great deal of willpower and the strong belief that things will be better because of the initial action!

In an effort to facilitate change as it relates to the current sugar epidemic, Katie Couric, in conjunction with the Fed Up Team, will take part in the Fed Up Challenge!  The Challenge requires participants to give up foods with added sugar and replace them with real, fresh whole foods!  The hope is that participants will realize the dangers of added sugar and reap the benefits of a more natural meal plan!

Having attempted to eliminate this dangerous additive from my diet, I have signed up to be a part of the challenge.  Not only do I want to bring about awareness, but I also want to take on this challenge to strengthen my character and improve my own willpower!

((Photo Source:  https://www.facebook.com/FedUpMovie/photos_stream))