Letting Go with Grace
To forgive is not an event; it is an unfolding. It is not a sudden, dramatic declaration, but a quiet, agonizing surrender.
The pain of the past—a betrayal, a harsh word, a grave mistake—does not simply vanish because we wish it to. It settles in the marrow, a bitter, protective armor that we cling to, believing it keeps us safe.
But the truth is, holding onto hurt is like clutching a hot coal: the only person it truly burns is you. And so, we must learn the quiet, radical art of Letting Go with Grace.
Forgiveness is one of the hardest things a human being can do. It is a wrenching process because it means acknowledging that the damage done—to you, or by you—is real.
But in doing so, you free yourself from the mental burden of reliving old hurts. It is a powerful step toward emotional and psychological peace.
Release the burden of wishing things had been different. In doing so, you are essentially choosing to accept the story of your life, not with resignation, but with a gentle readiness to move forward. This allows your energy to shift from reliving what was lost to embracing what can be built now.
“How long does it take to forgive?”
There is no answer that can be measured in days or weeks. It takes as long as it takes. For a minor slight, it might be an evening. For a deep betrayal, it could be a decade, or a process you revisit for the rest of your life. The act of forgiveness is not a finish line; it is the courage to keep walking even when you still feel the limp.
The reality of its difficulty lies in this: hurt grants us power. When we are hurt, we get to be the victim, the wronged party. Forgiving feels like giving up that power, like saying, "What happened was okay." It wasn't okay. Forgiveness is not about excusing the deed; it is about reclaiming your future from the grip of that deed.
Acknowledge and Validate the Pain:
Do not rush this step. Allow yourself to feel the anger, the grief, the injustice.
Write it down, scream it into a pillow, or weep. You cannot release what you have not first allowed yourself to hold.
Separate the Person from the Act:
The person who hurt you is a complex, flawed, human being. They acted out of their own brokenness, not a deliberate, cosmic plot against you. This is not sympathy; it is an objective recognition of universal human imperfection.
This separation allows you to condemn the action without signing a life sentence for the person.
Release the Expectation of Remorse:
This is a crucial step for grace. True freedom is accepting that the person who hurt you may never apologize, may never understand the depth of the damage, or may even repeat the behavior.
Your forgiveness cannot be conditional on their repentance. It must be a gift you give to yourself—the gift of no longer waiting for them to set you free.
Forgiving Yourself
The memory of an act that caused pain to another person carries a unique and heavy psychological burden. It is not just regret; it is the realization that your free will resulted in suffering. This realization fractures your internal narrative, creating a chasm between the person you want to be and the person who did the deed.
What did it teach you about your boundaries, your judgment, or your strength? Embrace the person you became because of the mistake, not the person you were during it.
If your mistake impacted others, make things right, not for their sake alone, but for your own peace. Apologize sincerely. Take corrective action. Then, you must accept that you have done all you can do.
Be patient with the other person, as it may take them time to forgive you. They may even want to revisit the situation and ask you questions time and time again. This is their way of healing.
Guilt…Shame…Embarrassment
Guilt says, "I did a bad thing." This is actionable and focused on behavior.
Shame says, "I am a bad person." It is a deep, toxic belief that your very identity is flawed, unlovable, and permanently stained.
Embarrassment is often a fear of external judgment ("What will they think of me?").
Shame internalizes that fear, making the "they" irrelevant because you have already become your own harshest, inescapable judge.
Changing the story you tell yourself…
De-Identify from the Act:
Recognize that your identity is not equivalent to your past action.
The person who performed the act was a limited, imperfect human reacting in a moment of their own history and context.
That moment does not define the totality of who you are or who you can become.
Embrace Shared Humanity:
Shame thrives on the feeling of being uniquely bad. Counter this by recognizing the universal nature of imperfection. Every human, in their own way, has caused harm or made a profound mistake.
This commonality does not excuse the act, but it allows you to step out of the isolation of shame and view yourself as a flawed human being deserving of the same compassion you would grant a friend.
Steps you can take and what has helped me:
Create a Ritual of Release:
Write a letter to the person, or to your former self, detailing all your hurt. Then, ceremoniously burn or shred the letter. It is a physical symbol of the energetic release you are seeking.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & Cognitive Restructuring
Used with the guidance of a therapist but can be researched for self-help. This is one of the most powerful tools for self-forgiveness and releasing resentment toward others.
The Tool: Challenging Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTs). When you replay the past, your mind often loops negative, judgmental thoughts (e.g., "I am a total failure," or "They meant to destroy me").
The Practice:
Identify: Write down the negative thought that replays.
Challenge: Ask yourself: "Is this 100% true?" "Is there an alternative, more compassionate way to view this?" "What evidence do I have against this thought?"
Replace/Reframe: Replace the condemning thought with a more balanced one, such as: "I made a significant mistake, but I am learning and growing from it," or "Their actions were hurtful, but they were likely driven by their own pain, not just a desire to hurt me."
The most important thing to remember about all these tools is that they require repeated practice and patience.
Be patient
There will be days when the old anger flares up, when the memory feels fresh, or when you condemn yourself again. This is not a failure; it is a ripple in the water, not a return to the storm. Simply note the feeling, breathe, and choose to release it again. Forgiveness is a choice you make 1,000 times.
The Power of Time: Time does not heal, but it separates. The passage of time allows the raw edge of the pain to dull, creating distance between the event and the you who is living now.
Remember…
Forgiveness is a practice, not a magic pill. You must be willing to show up and use the tools on the hard days, and the hard days will happen.
Benefits of Green Tea
Sinking into your favorite chair with a blanket, mug in hand, is how you officially declare a truce with the outside world. It’s permission to let your shoulders drop, to let the warm liquid soothe the day’s tension, and to enjoy a moment where the only thing that truly matters is the soft, quiet comfort right there with you.
Green tea’s profound health benefits stem from its high concentration of polyphenols, particularly a type of flavonoid called catechins. The most important and well-studied catechin is Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG).
The Role of EGCG
Free Radical Scavenging: EGCG is an exceptionally powerful antioxidant.
It rapidly hunts down and neutralizes Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), or free radicals, that are constantly generated by stress, environmental toxins, and normal metabolism.
Mitochondrial Shield: EGCG works like a cellular shield.
By reducing oxidative stress, it protects the delicate mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from damage, ensuring the power plants continue to function efficiently.
Iron Chelation: Green tea can help regulate iron levels.
Excess free iron in the body can generate harmful free radicals.
EGCG binds to this free iron (a process called chelation), reducing its ability to cause oxidative damage.
Thermogenesis and Fuel Use
Increased Thermogenesis: EGCG and caffeine found in green tea, work synergistically to increase thermogenesis (heat production) in the body.
This means your body expends more calories, even at rest.
Fat Oxidation: EGCG helps inhibit an enzyme that breaks down norepinephrine (a hormone that tells fat cells to release energy).
By keeping norepinephrine active for longer, green tea effectively prolongs the signal to burn fat for energy, particularly during exercise.
Blood Sugar Management: Regular consumption can improve insulin sensitivity (the opposite of insulin resistance).
It helps cells respond better to insulin, efficiently moving sugar out of the bloodstream and into the cells to be used for energy.
L-Theanine: Focused Calm
Alpha Brain Waves: Green tea is a unique source of the amino acid L-Theanine.
L-Theanine crosses the blood-brain barrier and stimulates the production of alpha brain waves.
The Effect: Alpha waves are associated with a state of alert relaxation—you are awake and focused, but your mind is calm and not stressed.
This balances the stimulating effects of the tea's caffeine, preventing the "jitters" often associated with coffee.
Stress Mitigation: L-Theanine is a potent tool for supporting your HPA axis.
It helps lower anxiety and cortisol levels, making it the perfect beverage to accompany your evening wind-down or afternoon meditation.
Cardiovascular and Longevity Benefits
The antioxidants in green tea offer significant long-term protection for the circulatory system, supporting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to every cell.
Nitric Oxide (NO) Production: Green tea helps boost the production of nitric oxide
A compound that signals the smooth muscles around arteries to relax and expand (vasodilation).
This improves blood flow and helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
Cholesterol Management: EGCG can help reduce levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein, or "bad" cholesterol)
Prevents the oxidation of LDL particles
The process that leads to plaque buildup in the arteries.
Beyond the momentary warmth, every cup of green tea is a simple, powerful investment in your well-being. It delivers a gentle stream of antioxidants and a boost of focus without the jitters, making it the perfect daily ritual for a cleaner, calmer, and more energized state. Sip, settle, and conquer.
Love in a Mug
Your craving for a rich, chocolate indulgence can be met in minutes with a guilt free mug-brownie!
Ingredients:
1 serving chocolate protein powder
3 tablespoons cacao powder
1 cap vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon coconut oil melted
1 egg
Splash of almond milk
Handful chocolate chip morsels
Steps:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl or mug and microwave for 1:30 minutes.
Protein: The Key Ingredient
Protein is composed of amino acids, which are the fundamental building blocks for virtually every structure and function in your body.
Key Benefits:
Tissue Repair and Growth: It is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, skin, hair, and organs—crucial for post-exercise recovery and healthy aging.
Satiety and Weight Management: Protein digests slowly, promoting a powerful feeling of fullness (satiety), which helps curb cravings and reduces overall calorie intake.
Hormone and Enzyme Production: It's used to create vital enzymes that power metabolic reactions and produce hormones that regulate functions like blood sugar and mood.
Bone Health: Adequate intake supports the formation of the bone matrix and helps maintain bone density as you age.
Enjoy your on the go, clean, guilt-free, fudgy treat!
Reconnect to the Magic
It’s not vanity; it's vibrancy. It’s the ritual of deciding how you want to show up in the world.
When you dress intentionally—whether it’s a tailored suit, a sharp dress, or your best-fitting denim—you are activating your inner confidence. This isn't about impressing others; it's about shifting your own mindset. The way you present yourself instantly changes your posture, focus, and energy. It's the psychological phenomenon of "enclothed cognition"—you literally perform better because you feel sharper.
Dress for the future you are demanding, not the past you are leaving behind. You are worth the effort, and that effort is your first power move of the day.
In the non-stop chaos of work and life, your relationship requires scheduled maintenance, not just leftovers. Date night is not a luxury; it's an essential circuit breaker.
This dedicated time is your chance to step out of the roles of co-parents, co-homeowners, or co-workers, and simply be the two people who chose each other. It’s a deliberate investment in:
Undivided Attention: Shifting the conversation from chores and logistics to dreams and shared laughter.
Novelty: Injecting fresh energy and excitement to keep the spark alive.
Prioritize your partnership, because it’s the foundation that supports everything else. Schedule the date, show up looking your best, and reconnect to the magic.
Trusting in His Sovereignty
We live in a world that is cluttered with uncertainty. We plan, we strive, we worry, and then life throws us a twist; a health crisis, an economic downturn, or a sudden change of course, and we feel the crushing weight of having to be in control.
But there is a profound, life-altering truth that offers an anchor for our souls in every storm: God's absolute and perfect sovereignty.
What is Sovereignty?
It is the certainty that the supreme ruler of the universe not only possesses all power but is actively, wisely, and righteously controlling all events.
God governs everything from the most complex things to the smallest, most ordinary details of your personal life.
With God, nothing happens by accident.
Scriptures about trusting in God’s sovereignty
Proverbs 3:5—6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works together for the good of those that love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you in my righteous right hand.”
Philippians 4:6—7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Lessons +
Life Hacks +
Lessons + Life Hacks +
*Proverbs*
Lesson
Stop trying to figure out every little detail on your own! You have a powerful, all knowing God. Trusting Him means choosing His directions over your confusing, so called shortcuts.
Life Hack
When you’re making a big decision (job, relationship, move) and your brain is in a loop, pause and say: “God, I don’t get this, but I trust Your way”. You know that gut feeling you get? Listen to that, even if it feels counterintuitive. That’s God directing you!
*Romans*
Lesson
Nothing is ever truly “ruined”. God is the master at taking every hard part, every mistake, and every setback in your life and turns it around for your ultimate good.
Life Hack
When something terrible happens (a failure, a disappointment, a loss), instead of asking, “Why me?”, try asking, “God I know you make no mistakes, and will flip this around to ultimately make it the best thing for me”. This will help shift your victimhood mindset. Remember, things aren’t happening TO you, they’re happening FOR YOU.
*Isaiah*
Lesson
You are never alone. The most powerful being in the universe is your personal, invincible support system. He’s telling you, “Don’t panic, and don’t get depressed, I have your back, I got you”.
Life Hack
When fear floods your system (before a presentation, a difficult conversation, or anything challenging), imagine Him right beside you, holding your hand. Take a few deep breaths. You don’t need to muster up your own strength, God gives you His. Remember the moments you’ve had where you’ve said, “I don’t know how I managed to pull that off”. It was Him, there with you, helping you along.
*Philippians*
Lesson
Instead of worrying about a problem, trade it for a prayer. You give God your request (with thanks!) and He gives you a super peace that guards your mind and blocks the stress.
Life Hack
Make a list of your worries, and pray to God about them. Thank Him before the problem is solved, because you know He’s already handling it. That peace you feel afterwards? It’s Him blocking the stress from getting back into your mind.
Remember if you don’t know how to pray, that’s ok! Just talk honestly with God, like you would a friend. It doesn’t have to be this formal speech, God knows us just how we are and loves us. He wants to have a personal relationship with you. Give it a try! It may take some practice. In the beginning it might feel weird, but keep trying. You will never lose having a relationship with our Lord!
The Duality of Gratitude and Hardship
The view from this office is a dream—and I am incredibly grateful for it. But what's not always seen are the goodbyes, the missed birthdays and holidays, and the reality of not being home every night, sometimes for half the month. This career, so often viewed as a constant adventure, comes at a great cost.
But this isn't just a post about pilots. It's about all of us who are living the constant, exhausting hustle of life. The 9-5 grind that leaves you too tired to do anything but zone out, the two-day weekend that never feels like enough, and the feeling that you're missing out on precious moments while just trying to survive. We get so caught up in the hustle of providing that we forget how to truly live. We get so lost in the world's demands that we lose our way back to ourselves.
This is why this blog, this journey, is a path back to yourself. It's a reminder that no matter what your "glorified" job or daily grind looks like, the most important flight you can take is the one where you are truly present and intentional with your moments, finding your way back to the person you were meant to be.
Finding a way back to yourself isn't about running from your life; it's about learning to live it with more intention. It's about quieting the noise that keeps you from hearing your own voice, learning to honor your body's needs, and finding the courage to rediscover the simple joys that fill you up. Moving forward, you can expect to find a space dedicated to just that. I'll be sharing practical ways to build self-care into your day, honest conversations about navigating life's most difficult seasons, and gentle reminders that you are worthy of peace and wholeness. This is a journey we can take together—one honest step at a time.
Building self-care into your daily life isn't about adding another big task to your to-do list; it’s about weaving small, intentional moments into the rhythm of your day.
It’s the difference between drinking your morning coffee on the go and taking a mindful minute to actually taste it before the day begins.
It's about taking a conscious deep breath in the car or at your desk when you feel a wave of stress, rather than simply letting it wash over you.
In the evening, it’s about creating a simple, screen-free ritual—whether that's reading a chapter of a book, listening to one song, or spending ten minutes simply doing nothing.
These small acts aren't just a break; they are quiet, powerful ways of honoring yourself, ensuring that even in the busiest seasons, you don't lose your way.
The Truth About Your Bread
The bread we eat has become a symbol of compromise. We’ve traded a wholesome, ancient staple for a product designed for convenience, a fluffy loaf packed with chemical additives, processed flour, and even residues from a controversial weed killer. The question is, at what point do we stop compromising on our health?
I had suffered from gut issues for a very long time, with doctors not knowing what else to do for me so I can begin truly healing myself from the damage. Finally I found a doctor who asked me “Have you ever been to Europe?”. I said “Yes”. He proceeds to ask how I reacted to the food and bread there. After I told him I was perfectly fine, no bad reactions at all, he asked a very controversial question, “Are you actually gluten sensitive, or are you simply eating the typical non organic American flour?”.
This embarked me on a brand new health journey.
The common breads you find on the shelves in supermarkets contain a substance called Glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup, a weed killer!). Below are some of the ingredients and their harmful effects found in store bought bread.
Glyphosate Residues: Many conventional American wheat farms use glyphosate as a drying agent, right before harvest, leading to residues in the final bread product.
Gut Microbiome Disruption: Glyphosate works by inhibiting an enzyme found in plants and many beneficial bacteria. This can harm the balance of the gut microbiome, potentially leading to digestive issues and other health problems, as the gut's health is linked to many other bodily functions.
Endocrine Disruption: Some studies suggest that glyphosate may act as an endocrine disruptor, interfering with the body's hormones. This can lead to a range of issues, from reproductive problems to potential links with certain diseases.
Neurotoxic Effects: Research has indicated that exposure to glyphosate can have neurotoxic effects, leading to brain inflammation and potentially increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Organ Damage: Animal studies, even at low doses, have linked glyphosate exposure to damage in organs such as the kidneys and liver. There is a growing body of research suggesting a link between glyphosate and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in humans.
Excessive Additives: Commercial American bread often contains a variety of dough conditioners, preservatives, and bleaches that are either restricted or banned in many European countries. These are used to speed up production and extend shelf life.
High-Fructose Corn Syrup and Sugar: Many commercial American breads add high-fructose corn syrup or other forms of sugar to enhance flavor and texture, which can contribute to unhealthy sugar intake.
Over-Processing: The flour used is often highly refined, stripping it of its natural nutrients. While many brands "enrich" the flour with synthetic vitamins and minerals, this does not fully replace the nutritional value of whole grains.
Lack of Regulation: Compared to many European countries, the U.S. has more relaxed regulations regarding the use of additives and agricultural practices in bread production.
Typical American Commercial Bread Ingredients
Enriched Bleached Flour: White flour stripped of most nutrients, then fortified with synthetic vitamins (Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid).
Water
Sugar or High-Fructose Corn Syrup: Used for flavor, browning, and to feed the yeast.
Yeast: Fast-acting commercial yeast.
Vegetable Oil (Soybean Oil): Added for a soft texture.
Salt
Dough Conditioners: A complex mix of chemical additives to improve elasticity and consistency (e.g., Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Monoglycerides, DATEM).
Preservatives: Chemicals used to inhibit mold growth and extend shelf life (e.g., Calcium Propionate).
Wheat Gluten: Added to increase protein content and improve the rise of the bread.
Soy Lecithin: An emulsifier to help create a uniform texture.
Other Additives: Can include cultured wheat flour, citric acid, or other natural and artificial flavors.
Fresh Homemade Organic Bread Ingredients
Organic Flour: Unbleached and free of pesticides and herbicides like glyphosate. Can be whole wheat or a blend.
Water: Often filtered to avoid chlorine, which can inhibit natural yeast activity.
Salt: Typically sea salt or kosher salt.
Yeast or Sourdough Starter: Either a small amount of active dry yeast or a live sourdough starter (a fermented mix of organic flour and water containing natural wild yeasts and beneficial bacteria).
Quick Tip
READ READ READ INGREDIENTS LIST ON LABELS!!!!!
Buy fresh baked bread whenever possible!
Make your own, its quick and easy I promise :)
Always buy Organic Flour!
Stick around to find out the truth about some of the other ingredients!!
Stick around to find out the truth about some of the other ingredients!!
Disclaimer: The information you find here is meant to be a helpful guide and a source of inspiration, not a replacement for professional guidance. Please remember that what works for me may not be right for you. Before making any changes to your diet, exercise, or lifestyle, be sure to chat with a trusted doctor or health professional.
The Hero Loaf
There is a simple, soul-deep joy in the act of making bread—in the patient dance of flour and water, the quiet alchemy of yeast, and the warmth that fills a kitchen. The magic, however, begins with the ingredients.
It is a fundamental truth that the quality of your loaf is a direct reflection of the care you put in, which is why the use of imported European flour makes all the difference. Grown under stricter farming practices, it offers a purer, healthier foundation that honors both the body and the bread. The result is more than a simple loaf; it is a warm, golden masterpiece that holds not just the fragrance of home, but the intention of its making.
To give or sell this bread is to pass on a piece of that warmth—to share a genuine, wholesome joy with your community and to remind them that true goodness, like a fresh loaf, is a gift to be cherished.
Mimi’s Kitchen is dedicated to providing you the best quality bread!
For more questions, email Mimi’s Kitchen
Small But Mighty
The secret ingredient to homemade cornflakes! Flaxseeds are a nutritional powerhouse packed with a variety of beneficial compounds. Often referred to as a "superfood," they are a simple addition to your diet with numerous potential health benefits.
This isn't just about a bowl of cereal; it's about making your morning feel like a win. Think of it as a tasty little high-five to your taste buds and a secret weapon for your body. Seriously, this recipe is so good, give it a try. You won't regret it.
High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Flaxseeds are one of the richest plant-based sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a fantastic omega-3 fatty acid
These powerful compounds are essential for keeping your heart humming and taming inflammation throughout your body
Loaded With Both Soluble and Insoluble Fiber
Soluble fiber in flaxseeds forms a gel in your gut, which helps keep your blood sugar stable and can even help lower your cholesterol
Insoluble fiber is a champion for digestive health, making sure things move along smoothly and keeping you feeling light and energized
Abundant in Lignans
Plant compounds, which act as powerful antioxidants
They're like a tiny, built-in shield for your cells, helping to protect them from damage
Fights off the effects of aging and disease
QUICK TIP
〰️
QUICK TIP 〰️
To get all the amazing benefits and unlock their full potential, use ground flaxseeds. A whole seed might pass right through you.
Disclaimer: The information you find here is meant to be a helpful guide and a source of inspiration, not a replacement for professional guidance. Please remember that what works for me may not be right for you. Before making any changes to your diet, exercise, or lifestyle, be sure to chat with a trusted doctor or health professional.
Joyful Morning Crunch
Each bite is a satisfying crunch of golden, toasty goodness. Unlike store bought, these flakes are bursting with flavor that’s both slightly sweet and nutty. It’ll change the way you think about cereal forever.
Ingredients:
1 cup corn flour
¼ cup ground flaxseed
4 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 cups water
Steps:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside. NOTE: If you have more than one baking sheet and can fit at least 2 pans in your oven, do it, it’ll save you time.
Combine all ingredients in bowl. Using a spatula, spread mixture thinly on parchment paper. NOTE: You may have to repeat the process depending on how much batter you have left.
Put in oven for 15-20 minutes.
Let baked mixture cool 5 minutes, then tear off of parchment paper. Crumble and break/tear apart. Leave the crumbled pieces on baking sheet.
Put back in oven to finish dehydrating for 10 minutes or once mixture has completely dehydrated. NOTE: Everyone’s oven works differently, if this is your first time, check them after 5 minutes to make sure they aren’t burning. You want them crunchy not burnt.
Place in airtight container. Add freeze dried fruit or eat alone. Enjoy!
The Unshakable Anchor
We live our lives sprinting from one thing to the next, dealing with the endless demands of the day. We search for our purpose in careers, find our value in our achievements, and seek peace in a thousand different places. Yet, a deeper part of us knows that true fulfillment lies beyond all that. It’s a fundamental longing to feel grounded, to feel whole, and to finally feel at home.
Beneath all the noise of it all, have you ever felt a longing for something more?
In a world of constant searching, where every path promises a new beginning, there is one journey that truly leads to wholeness: the return to the heart of the Lord. It is in His unfathomable love and boundless grace that we find the compass for our restless souls, guiding us through valleys and over mountains with a wisdom beyond our own. This isn’t just about following a map: it’s about trusting the Guide, whose divine hand gently steers our steps, whispering purpose into our very being. For in His presence, amidst His perfect peace, we discover that the true “coming home” is not a place, but to the eternal embrace of His love, where every fragmented piece of us is made whole again.
My journey finding God was never a straight path, a bumpy road at best. There were times I’d search for Him, asking for help in my troubles, and there were times I forgot He was the reason for living. Then it finally hit me. What if church wasn’t waking up early only on Sundays, sitting in a pew, singing a few songs and going home, forgetting it all until the next Sunday mass? What if church was in our own hearts? What if God was just waiting for me to find Him, to search for his Son, Jesus? What if He was there the whole time, and I never stopped to realize it?
That day came, when I decided church would be a daily routine I’d participate in. Church was no longer a place, but a feeling. I started out small, downloading a bible app and simply reading the scripture for the day, started thanking him for even the silliest things, like finding a parking spot on a busy Saturday at the supermarket. Slowly I began to realize, it isn’t about where you praise Him, but about the relationship you have with Him. He longs to have a relationship with us. He wants us to acknowledge that He is there, on the good days and the bad. Eventually, I started talking to Him like I would anyone else, telling Him about my day, how I feel about a situation, thanking him for the pretty flowers in the garden. And eventually I started to hear his still small voice in my heart, guiding me, preparing me for my truest purpose, His purpose. I have a long way to go, by no means am I a saint. But what I do know, is that as long as we seek Him, do our best to be good people, and turn away from evil, we are already steps closer than what we used to be. God’s love with never faulter. Trust in Him with all your heart, for He loves you.
The most important thing I learned on this journey was the importance of having a relationship with God and with Jesus. If you don’t know where to begin, that’s ok. Start small, thank Him for being alive, tell Him about your day and how you feel about what happened, like you would a friend, or a parent. It may feel weird at first, that’s ok. Just don’t give up on this part! Keep going! Because eventually it’ll all make sense and you will find Him in a way that is personal and purposeful to you. Don’t give up on Him because He will never give up on you.
Have Your Cake and Eat It Too!
When you take a bite of a warm, golden baked chocolate chip cookie, the last thing on your mind is fiber. You’re thinking about the soft, chewy center and the rich pockets of melted chocolate. And that’s exactly the point.
My secret to the cookies (Guilt Free Chocolate Chip Cookies), and to finding joy in eating, is that they don’t force you to choose between delicious and healthy. They’re made with wholesome, honest ingredients that are rich in natural fiber.
This isn’t just about about a nutrient; it’s about a feeling. It’s the difference between a treat that leaves you feeling tired and a treat that keeps you feeling satisfied, light, and energized. These cookies prove that you can have your cake (or your cookie) and feel good about it too.
It’s an invitation to a different kind of life. One where wholesome ingredients are the secret to the most delicious things.
Beyond Digestion: The Deeper Benefits of Fiber
Lowers Cholesterol
- Fiber binds to cholesterol and bile acids, preventing them from being absorbed into the bloodstream, flushing them out naturally. This helps lower bad cholesterol over time.
Manages Blood Sugar
- Slowing down the rate at which carbs are absorbed, fiber prevents the rapid spike in blood sugar that can lead to insulin resistance. This helps in managing and preventing type 2 diabetes.
Supports Heart Health
- With the help of lowering cholesterol, managing blood sugar, keeping the gut healthy, this is a powerful ally for a healthy heart. These benefits collectively reduce the risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
Fiber is the silent hero of many healthy benefits.
Disclaimer: The information you find here is meant to be a helpful guide and a source of inspiration, not a replacement for professional guidance. Please remember that what works for me may not be right for you. Before making any changes to your diet, exercise, or lifestyle, be sure to chat with a trusted doctor or health professional.
Guilt-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
Imagine a cookie that is everything you love: soft, fluffy, and rich with chocolate, without any of the guilt. These cookies are made with wholesome ingredients, packed with fiber, and sweetened just right. Prepare to fall in love with a cookie that tastes this good and feels even better.
Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup chickpeas drained and rinsed
¼ cup peanut butter
⅓ cup oat flour
⅛ cup + 1 tablespoon coconut flour
1 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ cup + 3 tablespoons maple syrup
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
2 pinches of salt
½-1 cup chocolate chip morsels
Steps:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. After rinsing chickpeas, place them in blender with maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract and blend well.
3. Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl and stir with spatula till well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, including the peanut butter and mix together well with spatula.
5. Add chocolate chips and mix well.
6. Spoon out cookie dough onto baking tray with parchment paper.
7. Bake at 350 degrees for 13-14 minutes.
8. After taking cookies out of the oven, let cookies rest 2 minutes and transfer to cooling rack. Enjoy!
Permission to Play
In a world that loves to-do lists, its easy to forget how to have fun.
Don’t wait for permission to be silly, to dance without music, or to laugh until your sides ache. Fun isn’t a frivolous distraction from the serious business of life; it is the vital, life giving force that fuels our resilience and fills our cup. It is a gentle reminder that our worth isn’t measured in accomplishments, but in the moments of unbridled, lighthearted joy that make us feel truly alive.
Having fun isn’t one of those things you have to go out of your way planning a whole day. It’s simply the small moments you share with people you love, the comedy movie you’ve been meaning to watch, that new thing you wanted to try, or just remembering that no matter how old you are, there’s still a kid deep down inside. Do whatever it is that puts a smile on your face and spend it in good company.
This was a few great hours spent in a tree top adventure park only 25 minutes from home. It was stepping outside of my comfort zone, climbing, swinging and ziplining under the shade of trees; amidst a forest, connecting to the earth.
Calming The Mind
Finding a moment to yourself is now effortless. Just press play!
Through a process called “brainwave entertainment”, binaural beats are meant to reduce anxiety and promote a deep state of relaxation. They can potentially improve concentration while you work or study, and makes it easier to enter a state of deep calm, encouraging better sleep and beneficial during a meditative state.
If you’re anything like me and enjoy having some sort of white noise as you sleep, try listening to binaural beats. It calms my mind from the constant chatter I get before bed that typically keeps me up longer than I’d like. Life is stressful and sometimes the only moment you get to think is when you lay your head on the pillow. But that only adds to the stress, because now you haven’t slept well and this rolls over into the next day. So if you need help calming the mind, put on binaural beats and drift away.
You can try binaural beats on any music platform, I get mine on Spotify. Binaural beats works best when using headphones. If that’s too uncomfortable while you sleep, try listening to them during the day to get the best effects.
Coziest Apple Crumble
It all begins with an idea.
Tis the season for apple picking!
Imagine the perfect spoonful of warm, tender, apples and the aroma of cinnamon that fills your home. Made with wholesome ingredients, enjoy the coziest taste of home you can find.
Recipe
Ingredients:
For the topping:
⅓ cup all purpose flour
½ cup old fashioned rolled oats
⅓ cup dark brown sugar slightly heaping
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup + 1 tablespoon cold butter cut into very small cubes
For the crisp:.
5-6 medium Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and very thinly sliced
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of nutmeg
Steps:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease an 8x8 baking pan or individual ceramic dishes with butter or nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
2. Peel most of the skin from apples and slice thin. NOTE: I like to leave some skin for the added fiber.
3. To make the filling: Place apples, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla in a large bowl and toss to combine. Allow to sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. To make the topping: Combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt and pecans (optional) in a large bowl until well-combined.
5. Add in the pieces of butter and use your hands to squeeze and combine until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles wet sand. NOTE: You can use a spatula or spoon, I find it easier to use my hands.
6. Once finished, take 1/3 cup of the topping mixture and toss with the apple mixture.
7. Place the apple mixture in prepared pan and sprinkle evenly with topping.
8. Bake the crisp on a baking sheet (just in case the filling bubbles over!) for 45-55 minutes, or until topping is golden brown and filling is bubbling.
9. Remove from oven and cool 10 minutes on wire rack. Serve warm with your favorite vanilla ice cream
Quick Tip
For Easy Clean Up
I purchased oven liners from amazon to make spills ten times easier to clean up. This time it was on my lower rack but you can place it on the very bottom too. Wipe down the liner or use a new one. Either way, mess free ovens, no more hurting your back to scrape off the mess from the bottom :)
Setbacks are Temporary
It all begins with an idea.
When my knee first dislocated, I had no idea when I would be able to get back to doing things I enjoyed, one of them being strength training. Strength training is more than just trying to look your best, its about all the positive benefits it has on our body: increases bone density, stronger muscles around your joints provides better support and stability, blood sugar control, reduces stress and anxiety…the list goes on!
Realizing I couldn’t do a lot of the things I did before felt like a real bummer. But what I do know, is that we all have a moment in our lives where things don’t function like they used to. Give yourself grace, be patient with where you are. A setback isn’t the end. Do what ever little you can, it may not seem like its doing much, but every little bit adds up.
This leg routine focuses on machines, where I can control the stability rather than free weights, and only took 30 minutes out of my day. Great for busy, on the go people! And remember, just do your best no matter how small the start, because your best is all you can give.
Leg Press
4 sets, 8-12 reps
Leg extension
4 sets, 8-12 reps
Leg curls (seated or lying)
3 sets, 8-12 reps
Leg Adductions
4 sets, 12-15 reps
Leg Abductions
3 sets, 12-15 reps
NOTE: The ones I did 4 sets on is specifically tailored to my knee situation, the doctor and physical therapist told me I needed to build up my quads and inner thigh muscles to help stabilize my knee and keep it in place. Don’t be afraid of making it your own, remember to have fun!
Slowing it Down
It all begins with an idea.
I invite you to focus on gentle, peaceful moments. In a world where everything is rushed, even our showers, taking even an extra 10 minutes of our day to slow down and acknowledge the importance of rest is like a warm hug for our soul. A gift to our well being.
It doesn’t have to be extravagant, keeping it simple rids us of the overwhelming feeling of having just another thing to do, even if it is in our best interest. You can grab some Epsom salt, essential oils, or just what you have in the house at the time, oats, milk, honey, herbs, etc. It is less about what is in the bath and more about slowing down to reconnect with ourselves, taking a moment from a crazy and busy day to calm the mind, relax the muscles, and nourish our soul.
Quick Tips: If soaking in a bath seems like a lot of work to set up, no worries! You can shower like you normally do, once you finish, while you’re still in the tub, plug the drain and grab a seat, add whatever you like to the water, and relax as the tub is filling up. No extra hassle. At this point you can light a candle, turn on soft music on your phone, get as creative as you like, remember this is for you, or just simply unwind to the noise of the water filling the tub, that is perfectly ok. Stay for as little or as long as you want. The purpose is to slow down and come back to yourself, even for just a moment.
Bigger than You
It all begins with an idea.
Investing in yourself, your health: mind, body and soul, is an investment in the kindness you can give to others. It becomes the grace, compassion and support that radiates to those around you. A cup that is empty has nothing to give. When we take the time to nurture ourselves, we aren’t just taking a break. We are building a reservoir of patience, love, and energy. It is only from this place of fullness that our kindness can truly overflow.
Buying from small businesses, doesn’t only help you, but it allows those businesses to thrive, giving the community as a whole better, more wholesome options for their loved ones.
When you choose food that is both local and organic, you aren’t just buying ingredients. You’re tasting the vibrant difference of freshness and becoming part of a life rooted in nature and community. Let’s live a life reconnected to the land!