Beauty in Strength

Hello friends!  How is today going for you so far?  If it went well, I’m glad to hear it, and if it didn’t, just think…tomorrow is already Wednesday, Thursday is Valentine’s Day, and then you’re already at Friday and the weekend.  Am I pushing it?  Maybe just a little, but it’s good to stay positive…

Here’s something else positive for you – Cinnamon Raisin Spice Oats from this morning’s breakfast!  Cinnamon and raisins always go so well together – cinnamon raisin bread, cinnamon raisin bagels, cinnamon raisin toast – but those aren’t the healthiest for our bodies.  Here’s a recipe for a comforting, warm, nutritious bowl that will completely satisfy that cinnamon raisin combo craving.

In the mix:

• 1/2 cup gluten-free, steel-cut oats
• 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (although any milk of choice should work)
• A generous sprinkling of pumpkin pie spice (a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice)
• 1 Tablespoon milled flax seed (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 packet of Stevia

Topped with:

• A sprinkling of cinnamon
• A sprinkling of raisins

The raisins plumped up and perfectly combined with the creamy oats, vanilla, and spices.  Simple ingredients, classic flavors, and the balance of protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats kept me full and energized until lunch.

On the side I had a small bowl of fruit salad filled with watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, strawberries, green grapes, red grapes, blueberries, pineapple, and kiwi!  It was SO refreshing, and the summer melons and berries made me yearn for the warmer temperatures.

Unfortunately, since they aren’t here, and they are actually forecasting more snow this week, a mug of cranberry pomegranate tea was my winter beverage of choice.

Time for a workout!

Question of the Day: What is your favorite summer fruit?

Quote of the Day: “Never hurry. Take plenty of exercise. Always be cheerful. Take all the sleep you need. You may expect to be well.” – James Freeman Clarke