Dare You To...

Work started up again for me today, after a relaxing and productive two-week holiday.  As much as I love my job, I get so much out of the time off to recharge my batteries.

Some of my favorite memories from this break are the times spent playing games!Games are a great way to de-stress, have fun, and connect with others. A good game will get you totally immersed in the moment, and that's where the magic happens.


One snowy/rainy night, we broke out a classic Monopoly board at my parents' house and got to competing.


It's been so long since we've played Monopoly--well over a decade, for sure!  I barely remembered the rules, but I may have been alone in that.  When Eric asked how much play-money we were each to start with, my father amazingly recited from memory exactly how many of each bill we should receive.  When we finally found the instructions, it was confirmed that my dad's memory was impeccable!


The night was spent in laughter, a fun time had by all!

PS: If you…

I've been feeling a little sickly and living off soup since my first 10k race last weekend, but I'm popping in for a moment to bring attention to an important holiday...
Did you know that TOMORROW is National Kale Day??!!?

According to NationalKaleDay.org:
"National Kale Day is held on the first Wednesday in October and is an annual celebration of eating, growing, and sharing kale throughout America."
So how should you celebrate?  By eating, growing, and sharing kale!

But WHY, you ask? Click to review last year's post:What is kale, Why is it great, and How can you eat it?   (Hint: It's a green vegetable with all kinds of benefits that can be eaten cooked or raw in a variety of ways!)


Last October, I celebrated the very fist National Kale Day in style with my friends (see the PaRTaY here), so this year, I dare you to follow suit with your ownKALE PARTY.  Hit up the farmer's market or supermarket, find a few varieties of kale (as shown above), Google a recipe…

Whatever you celebrate or don't celebrate, many people have a holiday from work, a chance to spend time with family and friends.  Take advantage of it.  ENJOY it.  Don't worry TOO too much about getting to the gym or saying no to your favorite food.  I'm not saying to abandon your health goals, but don't let it get in the way of your happiness this time of year.

Dare you to...

     Relax. 
   Unwind. 
   Celebrate.
Enjoy. 


That's all!

Just wanted to drop in and wish you a happy holiday week and a joyful New Year!

The 4th of July is tomorrow, and I hope my American readers have some fun activities planned.  If you can get outside, soak in some vitamin D, get active by walking, hiking, playing sports... all great healthy ways to spend the holiday!  Today, I dare you to add a healthier dish to whatever BBQ or party you attend!


A few years ago, I brought this "flag" out of blueberries and white chocolate-covered strawberries to a a BBQ.

Fruit can be used in other ways to create red, white, and blue desserts.  You can make these patriotic popsicles (below), recipe over at An Edible Mosaic. No sugar added!


Greatist also has 10 recipes for your 4th of July.  Check them out here.

You can also swap that apple pie for this grain-free apple crisp!

Want more ideas?  Pinterest is a goldmine for finding healthier treats to serve at or bring to parties.


Dare you to think outside the apple pie box and create some festive treats of your own!

How will you be celebrating Independence Day?  Have any favo…