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Hello! Happy Friday. Anyone else been up since 4am watching the Royal Wedding? I HAVE NOT! In fact, I didn’t even know it was this week until a few days ago. I guess I had my head somewhere in the clouds. But at least I attempted to where a ROYAL hat to work this morning.
What, you mean a KSWISS Hat doesn’t count?
And just so you know, there were definitely A LOT more men than women in my spin class this morning. Priorities people!
Anywho……….. As you know, Monday I mentioned taking a Fresh Approach in life. For me, that meant taking time to sit each day and enjoy a meal with NO DISTRACTIONS! Slowing down meal times and savoring each bite, either by yourself or with a friend, spouse, loved one, etc. How have I done so far? Well its been GREAT! I still am tempted to have some kind of technology by my side, but then I think about how congested it makes me feel and suddenly I just turn everything off!!! I set the table and sit. A couple days have been by myself while the others have been with the hubs (when he is home for dinner). Talk about communication! I love how much more we share. Sheesh, I guess we don’t realize what we’re missing until we actually take time to talk to each other, right?
Here are some others that are taking a FRESH APPROACH. I just had to share!
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Holly (the runny egg) and her Husband have been enjoying meals at the table every night.
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Vanessa (Gourmet Runner)and her husband took time to sit and enjoy a nice lunch.
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Christine (aka MERF) has started a FRESH approach to health and fitness in order to shed some post baby pounds.
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And Janetha took a fresh approach in her eating this week by going sugar free.
So let’s continue down this road of FRESHNESS. Keep me updated on what FRESH approaches you are bringing to the table (ha, pun intended). For now, I will leave you with this.
Garden FRESH Healthy Bite
Ingredients:
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⅔ cup freeze dried just Veggies
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½ cup spicy peanuts
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⅓ cup raw cashews
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2 tsbp Nutritional Yeast
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1 teaspoon oil (optional)
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1 tablespoon cashew butter
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1-2 teaspoon chili mix powder
Directions:
Place nuts, veggies, and yeast into food processor. Blend until smooth. then slowly add in your oil and spices while blending again. Transfer into a large bowl and add in cashew butter. Mix again with hands then roll into balls. Store in freezer or fridge to maintain freshness!
Makes 16 bites
Calories: 61.0 Fat: 4.3 g Carbs: 4.1 g Fiber: 1.0 g Protein: 2.5 g
EAT UP!!
So what Fresh Approach are you taking? Anyone, anyone?….Bueller…
Cheers,
LC
p.s.
please say a prayer for all those affected by the tornados. They could use them!
Awesome that you're spending chill time with your hubs. Taking time to sit down and enjoy your food is so nice. I'm definitely working on it too, as well as eating really slow! I'm usually done with my food in less than ten minutes! Definitely something I'm working on! Have an awesome weekend. 🙂
oh this is so refreshing to hear! I am so glad we can following each other on this journey! Keep me posted on your undistracted meal times and LOVE for running! Lindsay CotterNutrition Manager & Fitness [email protected] www.cottercrunch.com ________________________________
I've been doing the same thing – trying to really enjoy my meals and appreciate the food I'm eating and where it came from. A couple weeks ago I realized that I was distracted at the majority of my meals – eating breakfast on the way to work, eating lunch in front of my computer at work, and dinner time was either spent with the TV on or while multi-tasking with other household things. So I'm making an effort to change that and eliminate distractions when I can. Now that its nice out, I've also been going outside more just to sit for a few minutes and take a break from my day, which is really amazing and gives me more energy.I also had a realization during my half marathon on Sunday – that I am running because I love it, and not because I have to. That made me look at it in a totally different way and I really enjoyed the entire race!
we had a wonderful weekend where we enjoyed each meal and our company 😉 Glad you have been doing well with enjoying meal time!!
thats awesome heather. I think you will really enjoy the solitude time of running. No noise, just you! keep me posted on your fresh approach! Lindsay ________________________________
Haha! Love the Ferris Bueller reference! I was JUST thinking about this! I have been thinking about finding a way to get more structure and organization in my life so I don't feel like I'm being pulled 500 different ways at once. Since I've been going to the gym on my free pass, I've realized that I really do love running! Not for the distance, but just for how it makes me feel. I started to get that feeling last fall, but ended up spraining my ankle (because I'm accident prone…so not a running injury) and had to quit before I really got started. I also want to focus more on unplugging a bit each day. It seems like the computer is pretty much ALWAYS attached to my hip and I'm not proud of that. I seriously need to find balance and I think a fresh start/focus is just what I need!
oh I love it! Fresh good, fresh meals, fresh conversation. I was amazed myself at how much better we communicated at the table. Its like we were hiding under a rock or something before. haha. Lindsay ________________________________
Ryan and I have recommitted to smoothie b reakfasts and salad beasts for lunch. 🙂 Planting lots of veggies that will hopefully grow to be an abundance of FRESH produce for us this summer! We eat dinner as a fam at the table usually 4-5 times a week. We talk about each of our "favorite parts of the day." It's amazing how much communication can happen at the dinner table!
oh that sounds wonderful!! I love the brunch idea too. Now if only we could finf a GF crepe place, i'd be in heaven! Lindsay CotterNutrition Manager & Fitness [email protected] www.cottercrunch.com ________________________________
oh I'd love to hear more about your 30 day raw challenge! Go for it and keep us posted. :)p.s.Can you come declutter my house now? haha. Lindsay ________________________________
My hubby and I do dinner together during the week and do brunch on the weekends! We make most of our meals from scratch and only eat out once or twice a week, just to get out and about! Last week we went to a great gluten-free restaurant that made crepe sandwiches…it was awesome!
Sounds like your approach is making you happier…which means that it's a success! 🙂 I'm feeling light and fresh because I've gotten rid of so much clutter. And I'm thinking about jumping into a 30-day Raw Challenge tomorrow, since it's starting to warm up…haven't decided yet. 🙂
me too, I just wanted to see the beautiful bride! Google saves the day! As for the veggies, you can add them to soups, salads, casseroles, or even cornbread! its delicious! Lindsay ________________________________
I've never tried those Just Veggies… how else do you use them?! I'm intrigued 🙂 And no, I didn't watch the wedding, but I did google some pictures after. I am kind of in love with how cute Kate is, so I just wanted to see her dress 🙂 That was about the extent of my voyeurism.
Jordan,That was the hardest part, yet best part of this challenge. Eating alone. It gave me a chance to just enjoy FOOD. WOW, hadn't done that in a long time. Let me know if you give it a whirl. Lindsay ________________________________
Hey! I just found your blog and I'm so happy that I did! I love it. I'm looking forward to reading more. Yay! 🙂
🙂 Ferris Bueller is my faveI really should try to have at least one meal a day sans distractions or technology. I'm almost always in front of my computer or TV when I'm eating, especially if I'm alone. I'll give it a try!
Since it has gotten warmer, I usually go outside with my meal tray and sit down at the table in the courtyard to eat there. I feel much calmer since I've started that because there's no technology around, just the wine growing above me. 🙂 In my apartment, I have moved my laptop to the living room and eat in the kitchen without any technology around either. (That's an improvement I've made in the past weeks and it really helps.)I love your healthy bites, especially because you can make them without baking. After screwing up a wonderful almond shortbread in the oven today, I need a mental break from baking. 😉
totally royalty! I l love that hat. I do miss you! I wish we had the same schedule these days, haha. Not so much anymore. But I'll just live vicariously through you right now. hehe! Lindsay ________________________________
oh awesome! keep reminding people! and nice biking this week girl. Lindsay ________________________________
oh keep me posted on how your table meals go! Its so good to have encouragement. Slow down and enjoy ,right? Have a great weekend christina. Lindsay ________________________________
thats what was happening to us. Our meals were only technology free if we were out to eat. Its definitely been a great way to reflect on the day when were are in our home,at the table! So glad you will join me in this!! Have a wonderful KOMBUCHA filled weekend. hehe. Lindsay ________________________________
I've really been working hard at eating sans electronics this week too Lindsay. Thanks for the inspiration! Of course, having the kidney infection I didn't eat much anyways. Glad it's working for you too.Prayers being sent for sure! So many peoples lives were changed forever this week and my heart breaks for them.Nicole
Yummmy!!!!I like your new recipe and I have been totally anti-usage of technology on the table.Sadly,I would have to keep reminding people at times. Keep up with the freshness!! 🙂
I love the idea of sitting down to a meal without a computer, cell phone, tv etc. I'm definitely guilty of this! In fact, only when I eat out with friends do I go sans technology. I think I'll try following your lead this week!Thanks so much for sharing the Healthy Bite recipe! I love those freeze-dried veggies, but haven't bought them for awhile. Hope you're having a wonderful weekend, Lindsay!
Awesome that you're spending chill time with your hubs. Taking time to sit down and enjoy your food is so nice. I'm definitely working on it too, as well as eating really slow! I'm usually done with my food in less than ten minutes! Definitely something I'm working on! Have an awesome weekend. 🙂
I love your hat! You know I wear my hat all the time – it's pnkish/purple – that's like royalty, right?? I MISS YOU SO MUCH. I have event from 9-1:00, then work 3-close. Yikes. Tomorrow is a day off! Let's chat, please! xoxo Happy Birthday to James!
Thank you Annette. I am so glad you commented. Looking forward to getting to "know" you more. Happy weekend!! Lindsay CotterNutrition Manager & Fitness [email protected] www.cottercrunch.com ________________________________
haha, you will be speeding by them soon. Patience is a virtue, right? good luck today!! Lindsay ________________________________
Mmm! Chili and cashew. Sounds yummy!You are stylin' in the hat! Way to stay with the commitment. at meal time 🙂
I love the fresh approach! I'm taking a fresh approach to training and racing- I've realized being here in SLO, there are way too many people faster than me… time to get it on lock!
Hey I am coming over and following after a post from Pain, Pride and Perseverance: My Running Journey. Love the recipe for those bites. Certainly going to try them. Glad to have found your blog!
Perfect protein bite, eh? Happy friday jess!
3 grams of protein?! SUHHWEET!! 🙂
oh I knew you'd like those bites. The nutritional yeast and all. hehe! let me know when your lazy ass makes them. hehe. Lindsay ________________________________
I'm glad I am not the only one who really just does not care about "The" wedding. I don't get it. I am also glad I am not the only one eating at my table alone (though it does make the time you eat with others more special)Oh, and you made my life by making a savory little ball. I am so copying this (probably in a month or so…I tend to drag my lazy butt).
I actually sat by myself and ate lunch the other day. No reading, no phone, etc. It was really pleasant. I could just look outside and think about my day. Refreshing! Keep up those lovely meals with the hubs.;) Lindsay ________________________________
Thanks for the shout out! I've enjoyed a couple of meals with hubs, which is easy to do because I have someone to enjoy a conversation with. It's still a challenge for me to sit and eat a meal without any distractions though. I often end up picking up a magazine or a book, or sneaking open my laptop. So glad you drew my attention to this!
wine and computer time are mine thing too, i hear ya. But as soon as we sit down and take that time, it is so worth it. Just to be still and talk with one another. Let me know if you give it a whirl. Lindsay ________________________________
does that mean we get more raw recipes? YAY!! Lindsay ________________________________
Wow that's interesting… I love savoury things, so I'm sure I'd love these too! I didn't watch the wedding either. Not my cuppa tea!! 😉 Fresh approach for me is I'm getting back to eating more raw again!! YAY, it's taking me forever, but it's time!!
I think it's drinking more water (which seems weird, I feel like I drink a lot…) and being outside in fresh air. I also have allergy meds. yes, the cleanEST eating has helped! it's awesome! Basil bite… Hmm… *wheels turning* 🙂
Well, I love this fresh approach idea. Meal time is something we really need to focus on in my home. Sadly it is me that never wants to unplug. After work and a hectic day I want to unwind with wine and my computer. This really takes away from family time. I need to make this a priority and dinner time is the perfect opportunity!
WOO HOO for table time. Its funny how we just let that go as soon as life gets busy. I am so glad we both got to enjoy time with the husbands. Its nice to connect. And girl, I am super impressed my your fresh approach! I kinda dig it. okay I really dig it! Lindsay ________________________________
I wish we worked at the same gym so we could just flip flop taking each others classes. How does that sound? ANd now, I wish I could come to YOGA with you. I am loving your attitude friend. SO INSPIRING! Lindsay ________________________________
michelle, that is such a great questions. You are your husband are definitely lucky to have each other. I am very much inspired, thank you! Lindsay CotterNutrition Manager & Fitness [email protected] www.cottercrunch.com ________________________________
once again, i can so relate! learning to stop and be less structured is a whole new concept. But one we must learn to balance with, ya know? Have a stress less weekend! Lindsay ________________________________
emma, what a beautiful approach. Its funny how God can put things on heart just by blogging, WOW! Its so great to have spiritual encouragement from each other. Praying that this FRESH approach will bring lots of growth. Keep me posted. Lindsay ________________________________
Julia, I think you've just inspired me here! I love this approach and definitely will strive to get there with you! Like I said, sometimes we get so congested with life and stressors, we just need to slow down and BREATHE! Thank you again for sharing this! Lindsay ________________________________
Has the clean eating helped? Are the headaches from allergies? I get that too! I bet all your wonderful juices helped. And wow, a Basil Bite…..YOU MUST MAKE ONE!! Happy Fresh Friday.;) Lindsay ________________________________
I know they have the just veggies at whole foods. Kinda near the snack isle. And thank you for keeping me accountable this week. I am loving sitting down. Cheers! Lindsay ________________________________
oh well I love hearing your heart and how it is growing! Keep building that confidence girl, you are AWESOME! Any new vegetables this week? Lindsay ________________________________
I hope you are working out right about now. tee hee! Lindsay ________________________________
spartan race?! TOO COOL! Thats definitely a different approach and very fun. Good luck! let me know how it goes. Lindsay ________________________________
the funny thing is, if it were the bachelor, we'd be all over it. Right Rebecca? haha. Lindsay ________________________________
I don't get why they just don't TIVO it if its that important, haha. At least you didn't have to worry about saving a bike this morning, right? Happy Friday Tina. Lindsay ________________________________
ya, me too! I didn't realize HOW SOON it was. haha. Now I don't feel so bad. Cheers to that Sable! Lindsay ________________________________
you can do it! just try one meal. I bet you can. Take you little bug and go for a picnic! Right?! 😉 Lindsay ________________________________
wow, what an exciting time for you both. COngrats on getting back into racing. I'll be cheering for you! And I bet your husband is so thankful to have a wife that takes care of him. Happy Friday Jen! Lindsay ________________________________
ain't no shame! Gotta soak it up once in a life time, right? Happy friday! Lindsay ________________________________
yes, good idea! whats the update there? Lindsay ________________________________
carrot balls?! YUM! Did you post that? I think I remember you did. I need to look those up! Did you get my email? Hope it helps. Happy Friday Katelyn. Lindsay ________________________________
buy it in bulk at whole foods or sprouts! So much cheaper. 😉 Lindsay ________________________________
I'm just wondering how they walk upright with some of those. ha! Lindsay ________________________________
hahah about the royal hat comment. i kind of feel bad for all those ladies. i mean, after the wedding they are going to have royal hat hair…right?
Those healthy bites are interesting!! I think I could go for the savory/salty variety 🙂 I WAS up watching the Wedding, and loved every minute of it! haha, kind of said to think how early I got up for that, but hey it only happens once right?! (we hope.) Happy Friday!
Those healthy bites are interesting!! I think I could go for the savory/salty variety 🙂 I WAS up watching the Wedding, and loved every minute of it! haha, kind of said to think how early I got up for that, but hey it only happens once right?! (we hope.) Happy Friday!
Haha Bueller.. oh man awesome movie! Those little bites look delicious, must make as soon as nutritional yeast finds its way into my hands 😀
Hahaha bueller…bueller…oh my goodness best movie ever. Those veggie bites look so good!!! They remind me a little of the carrot balls that Lisa and I made:)
bueller bueller! teehee! =) I'm taking a fresh approach to this housing situation! <3 I will make the best of it! =)xoXOxoJenn @ Peas & CrayonsHappy Friday!
i'm so glad it's going well!!! how funny that some of the women were missing from your class…i definitely skipped my run to sit in front of the TV and watch the wedding – oops! couldn't help myself 🙂
mmm I love the look of those fresh bites! :)Always so inspiration to read about the positive steps that others are taking. I have to say that I am so guilty of eating and having something technological with me. In fact I'm having my afternoon snack right now as I'm typing! Something I definitely need to work on. Fortunately, my husband and I are able to sit down and have a leisurely, home cooked dinner each and every night.Something new for me is that I'm running my first race (half marathon) in almost 2 years on Sunday. Also blogging has helped me get out of a boring breakfast rut and I've whipped up many new recipes.My husband Nick was in a bit of a low point in taking care of his body and so he's eating an almost exclusive diet of plant whole foods for several weeks to get back on track 🙂
mmm I love the look of those fresh bites! :)Always so inspiration to read about the positive steps that others are taking. I have to say that I am so guilty of eating and having something technological with me. In fact I'm having my afternoon snack right now as I'm typing! Something I definitely need to work on. Fortunately, my husband and I are able to sit down and have a leisurely, home cooked dinner each and every night.Something new for me is that I'm running my first race (half marathon) in almost 2 years on Sunday. Also blogging has helped me get out of a boring breakfast rut and I've whipped up many new recipes.My husband Nick was in a bit of a low point in taking care of his body and so he's eating an almost exclusive diet of plant whole foods for several weeks to get back on track 🙂
saving this recipe! love that the fresh approach is working for you! i am so attached to technology…i need to really detox from that among many other things i'm sure 😉 happy wknd linds!Katie 🙂
woohoo! i made the fresh cut! hehe. oh my gosh, i loved the bueller reference. i say that ALL THE TIME. all the time! thanks to you, marshall and i ate TWO meals at the table this week!
woohoo! i made the fresh cut! hehe. oh my gosh, i loved the bueller reference. i say that ALL THE TIME. all the time! thanks to you, marshall and i ate TWO meals at the table this week!
woohoo! i made the fresh cut! hehe. oh my gosh, i loved the bueller reference. i say that ALL THE TIME. all the time! thanks to you, marshall and i ate TWO meals at the table this week!
OOoh these healthy bites look good!! Maybe I could sneak some more veggies into Max's life ;-)And yeah I totally spaced on the royal wedding too. When they first announced it I just assumed that it was going to be April 29 of NEXT year….when I finally figured out it was this year I was like WHOA wait haha. It totally threw me off.
Sounds wonderful! I love your little healthy bites. Seriously, they're so cute. :)I'm feeling fresh nowadays too. HAPPY FRESH FRIDAY!
Our spin class was WAY more empty than normal. So many ladies were out. I wonder if it was to watch the royal wedding. If so, kind of crazy in my opinion. Exercise always beats TV!
My fresh approach = studying HARD before my finals .. I better go do that now… ugh lol!
totally didnt know/understand this wedding crazy business until a few days aago… you're not ht eonly one living under a rock! haharecipe looks awesomeee, i could use a new snacky snack 🙂
mmm, def making those!Please keep the positive vibes coming for the tornado victims, it's been terrible for them!!!my fresh approach is my first milestone in my get back to fitness challenge tomorrow- the spartan race! AHHHHHH wish me luck!! (;
Thanks for the link-up! It's motivation to not skip my workout this afternoon. 😀
Freakin' love that, dammit!
Think they are detox friendly?
aww! thanks for mentioning my post! I feel so honored to get a mention here 🙂 you are so sweet, and I love everything I read from you!!
I'm taking a fresh approach to losing weight. No more "trying" to lose weight. I'm doing it dammit!
Yum! They look amazing 🙂
The healthy bites look/sound delicious! I've never seen those freeze dried veggies before!Thanks for the link, and also thanks for posting about eating at the dinner table. It has been a small change but it has been really nice having that time to talk and connect!
Happy Friday!
oh thats a good one gen! please keep me posted on how you feel. Lindsay ________________________________
that just makes my day Sarena. LOVE IT! I hope we can keep this going. Have a wonderful weekend with your sweet family. Lindsay ________________________________
oh enjoy it Heather. You guys deserve it! Rest and relaxation! Lindsay ________________________________
Love it. My fresh approach is to soak up all of Seattle & not worry about schedules or plans. Just enjoy life
Love it. My fresh approach is to soak up all of Seattle & not worry about schedules or plans. Just enjoy life
the timing here was different, so the wedding was over just in time for me to make Jason breakfast before he left for work, then start my day as normal 🙂 after my workout I have had coffee, which is NOT normal for me. my fresh approach began at the beginning of the week with my seeking headache relief – my eats have been even cleaner than normal and much of my activity has been outdoors this week.these garden fresh bites sound perfect! makes me want to make a BASIL one…
I felt the same way about the wedding. I was like "oh I think that wedding is this weekend…maybe I will watch it." Then I got home at 10:30 last night and realized it was on this morning at 2am. Ummm. no thanks. I like sleep. haha. This week I have been trying a fresh approach by refreshing my attitude and mindset when it comes to the things that are stressing me out lately. I think I may have said this earlier in the week…but I just want a greater balance. Lately I have been heavy on the personal/self side…somewhat less on the relationships side and even less on the work/school side. Mostly because I have some huge projects coming up that are causing me stress so I avoid which = more stress. blah. So…I have made an effort to reframe or refresh my attitude toward these projects by working on them a little every day which makes them seem way more manageable than deciding that they "are too big for me to work on right now." I have also taken time out to enjoy a little time with friends every day as well. And of course…I still take time to blog/read blogs. So…I have definitely felt more balance which has decreased "some" of the stress and anxiety 🙂 I really want to try those veggie bites!! I have never heard of that bag of freeze dried just veggies though…I need to find those!I am so inspired by your honest and genuine and SUCCESSFUL work toward a fresh approach this week! Sounds like it was relaxing and a nice change of pace to the hustle and bustle of daily life 🙂 happy friday!
Those bites look SO GOOD!! I'll have to look out for freeze-dried veggies! And haha my gym was the same!! I was one of the only women!! 😛 Love those Fresh Approaches- they're so inspirational!! And you're the source of it all Linds you INSPIRATION! And I' m so glad YOUR Fresh Approach is going well and making a difference!! I came up with my Fresh Approach last night by the way! Took me a while to realise it, but I need a fresh approach with my relationship with God. Recently I haven't been putting Him first, and I've been totally unfocused- NOT good!! So I'm starting again, and taking a fresh approach to everything- prayer, praise, whatever! He comes first in my life ALWAYS, and I never should lose sight of that:) Love you friend, have a great Friday!!
Aw thanks for the shout-out my friend, you are the greatest! I am SO SO SO glad you're enjoying eating dinner at the table with the hubs – isn't it amazing how much great convo and catching-up you can do when you're not distracted by TVs, blackberries, and everything in between? Crazily eye-opening! Let's see…what am I doing new or fresh? Aside from trying to get my running mojo back full-force, I'm trying very hard to chill out more, enjoy having a little bit less structure to my day. I'll tell you, it's a very big work in progress. 😉 Happy weekend friend!!
We have been sitting down and eating together as a family. We do this every so often, but the kids are normally ready to get the energy out when they get home from school. Tony and I spend so much time together…we are definitely caught up. I think it's great you are bringing this to people's attention. It really is so important to take the time to make things fresh…and better! Have a great weekend Lindsay!
those little healthy bites look yummy!!! 😀 My fresh approach is trying to cut back on the gluten…haven't gone completely gf, but am definitely having to get creative w/ my snacks! Hope you have a wonderful weekend!!!!!
oh I just love your perspective! keep me posted on the summer plans. I hope you get to come to TX! Lindsay Co________________________________
Happy Friday! My husband and I's way of taking a fresh approach during the week is a bit different. He works a couple of nights a week and therefore, our dinner times are sacred (he comes for a break during his shift). We also get to eat lunch together a few other days (we work on a university campus) and during all those times we always ask each other, what is one thing that happened today and how did it make you feel. Regardless if it's good or bad. It helps us to talk and we love getting to catch each other up on what's happening during our day.
I wish I could come to your spin class so so bad, I would just smile the whole time! Yay for more communication at dinner withe hubs! I will be making those bites:) happy Friday gorgeous girl!
im taking a fresh approach to my summer plans! they might not turn out the way i wanted to and thought they would which really made me upset- but im realizing that its not the end of the world and I will still have a great time no matter what! YAYAYAYYAAY love these bites :D!