Grateful For... Pan Seared Steak with Peppers and Onions

Everyone has something they are grateful for. Unfortunately, we forget about that many times. When you're having a bad day it's easy to say "everything sucks", throw your hands up, and stomp around like a baby. And when you're having a good day it's easy to take it for granted. But at the end of the day it is important to reflect and recognize those things you do have, the people who are there for you, and the opportunities that lay ahead. By doing so you can realize an array of health benefits (check out this article from MDA)

Try this exercise: Before you go to bed grab a little notebook and number 1,2,3 down the left margin. Then, next to each number, jot down something you are grateful for. Don't think about it, just write the first thing that comes to mind. The events of the day will certainly have an impact of these three items, but that's what important. Be true to yourself. This isn't for anyone else's eyes but yours. And don't worry if the only things you're grateful for today are the bed your sleeping in, the air you breathe, and clothes on your back. Tomorrow you might be grateful for the letter from you're Grandmother, the bird's chirping in the first morning light, and the way your kitchen smells after you bake a fresh batch of cookies...

Shrimp Soup

Have you ever heard the expression that some of the most important things in your life will happen when you least expect it? Has anything important or life changing happened to you lately? Are you too caught up in your "responsibilities" to notice...?

Sometimes you've got to stop and smell the roses. Don't get so caught up in life. Granted certain responsibilities are, well, responsibilities (like feeding the baby, walking the dog, putting gas in the car). But stressing about things like work, relationships, finances, the ozone layer... can really reek havoc on your body and mind. Dissect each situation one at a time. Remember that you are accountable for your actions, and you have the ability to affect each situation. And don't ever forget, live for you.

Shrimp Scampi over Cauliflower Rice

One thing I love about being young is that I keep learning new things. Now I know that we will consistently learn new things throughout our life, but the younger you are generally you are more open to new ideas and can absorb them quicker. And I'm not just talking about education (although that is something I am huge into). I am mostly referring to life lessons.

Over the summer I attended a conference; I met numerous great people, gained a lot of insight to the industry, and, most importantly, learned the value of accountability. It was a small part of one of the many presentations over the 3 days, but it really struck a chord with me.

For the Love of Marinated Venison Tenderloins

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, a time to show your love and appreciation to those closest in your life. That's right, don't just focus on your partner- tell your mom and dad, siblings, close friends, co-workers, neighbors, the post man... anyone who means a lot in your life, that you love and appreciate all they do for you.

NEW WEB ADDRESS!

Hi Everyone!

I am really pleased to announce that my site is "official"! Please note the new web address:

www.thenakedkitchen.net

Thank you all for your continued support. Continue to enjoy the blog and please, please share with anyone who thinks "they just can't follow that lifestyle" to see how easy it really can be. And for that matter, just share with anyone!

Enjoy :)

Bonnie


PS- If there is ever anything you have questions on, would like to hear my opinion, or would like to see how I would prepare, please leave a comment!

Chicken Vegetable Soup

Groundhog's day was just last week and Mr. Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow. Prediction: Early Spring! Unfortunately even an early spring is still 6 weeks away. In the meantime, here is an easy slow cooker chicken soup recipe that is sure to keep you warm.

Party Planning and Recipe for Salmon Pate

With Super Bowl Sunday coming up many of you may be trying to figure out what kind of snacks. appetizers, and finger foods you are going to have that aren't sugar laden, carbo dense, sodium packing, and full of mystery preservatives. Well, my friends, it is not as hard as you'd think! You just have to be willing to take a few minutes pre-game time and whip up a few delicious and nutritious treats that everyone will love.

Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

Ever since I discovered winter squashes I have wanted to try a butternut squash soup recipe. I have some across tons of variations that sounded tempting, but all seemed more involved than I was really looking for. While I was home over the weekend my Mom was getting ready to discard a jumbo Fuji apple that she nor my Father had any plans of eating. Not being one to allow food to be wasted, I grabbed it right up. Later on that day I stumbled across this recipe on Everday Paleo; perfect timing! I had just picked up a package of pre-cut butternut squash from Wegmans and I always have onion, broth, and coconut milk on hand.