So Let Us Begin

Hello 2014! It seems like you got here kind of fast but, whether I like it or not, I guess you've officially arrived. I welcomed you with the stomach bug, which I won't blame you for, but it wasn't exactly the way I thought I'd detox and lose some weight after ringing in the New Year. It did serve as a springboard to start in earnest to clean up my diet and get back to the gym. It seems almost impossible to avoid excess sweets and alcohol and missed gym classes over the holidays, but I do feel very ready to restart my commitment to living a healthy, active life. 

To make that work, it certainly doesn't involve steamed chicken breast and broccoli every night. It's mainly (at least for me) about making better choices. I'm always going to eat pizza at least once a week and drink one can of Coke nearly every day, but I know I have to make better choices elsewhere if I want those treats. I have learned, though, that healthy, body-nourishing food can taste good. And the more I eat it, the more I want it. And I feel better and have more energy. And then I feel more excited about creating the life I want. So let us begin anew!

Here are a few of my favorite recipes you might consider making if you too are looking for healthy, yummy food. Whether you want something fast or something impressive enough for company, you've got options. 

Pan-Seared Salmon with Warm Winter Slaw

Asparagus, Orange and Lentil Salad

7-Minute Soup: Creamy Piquillo Pepper and Chickpea Soup with Chicken 

Vinegar-Braised Chicken with Peas and Leeks 

Cajun-Stuffer Peppers 

Chicken and Butternut Squash Curry

And while I know it's popular to make a long list of resolutions at the beginning of a new year, for me, it's more about recommitting to a lifestyle, which is something I strive to honor on a routine basis. [Special props go out to this person who worked with me in 2013 and taught me how to make this viable.] Having said that, I do make a cooking resolution! This year, I'm going to finally try my hand at homemade gnocchi. But I don't want to make hard, rubbery gnocchi. I want to make pillowy-soft, melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi! So if you have any tips or favorite recipes, please share!

I leave you with one of my favorite quotes, which seems fitting as we set forth on a new year: 
"You are the author of your life's adventure. Weave your tale of wonder and believe in your brave heart." — Brancy Britton
Wishing you all a happy, healthy and wondrous 2014!