Hi everyone! Seasons are close to changing and I am not just referring to the weather. 

I've hinted repeatedly in the last 4-5 blogs that I am about to 'go off the grid'. I am choosing not to share any details of the experience on my blog or elsewhere. But you will all hear about my experience one day in an unexpected format (I'll leave that as a lingering surprise)!

This will be my last blog post for the summer but, I will be back in October/November with a site redesign and redirection. I cannot wait for both! You are all in for quite the treat! We've worked hard behind the scenes for the last 6 months to determine the future of Snapshots of Wellness.

There are few times in life where one can just leave a cell phone, contact with others, a computer & social media...far far behind. And opt to have a private traveling experience where you are fully immersed in the 'now' w/ those who are along side of you. An experience where memories & photos are cherished and 'yours' vs. sharing with say, all those on Facebook or elsewhere. I think sharing every single last thing about your life on social media or even a blog, takes away some of the preciousness of our personal  experiences. Given everyone is attached to their phones to a degree that is frankly, unhealthy, I think it will be absolutely dreamy!!!

I strongly encourage all of you to consider putting down your phones more and more. I encourage you to opt out of say, Facebook for 30 to 60 days to use that time for more fruitful endeavors in your life. Try it! My guess is you will look back and wonder why in the world you were spending your time stuck in front of a screen, as you now revel in the trade off of real experiences & connections!

 If there was one area this past year that I hope to have inspired/encouraged all of you, it is in the area of sustainability, taking care of this precious earth and nurturing not only yourself and those you love but, our planet. Enjoy this beautiful summer's end everyone! I'll leave you all with this beautiful & tenderly written quote below that holds such sentimental value in my life . Au Revoir! 

Can all of you believe it is August? It's such a precious time in the city of Chicago as we relish these last weeks of summer sun. Whenever August taps us on the shoulder, it's whispering 'Hey, the reality of a summer's end is looming so, soak it in'.

If you have been reading SW for even a short length of time, you've come across two other blogs referencing the book 'Tell Me Everything' by Jason Helveston.  And the day has arrived that we are going to chat about this phenomenal read.

Let's start with the Author, Jason.

Jason is a Pastor at Park Community Church in Chicago. Park has nine campuses and Jason leads the campus in Logan Square. Shout out to all of you Logan Square peeps & Chicago Diner. The latter is a random & completely unrelated shout out but, if you live in LS, it's a must stop. I digress.

When I heard that Jason had written Tell Me Everything, I knew I wanted to read it. Why? Because Jason is so gifted at speaking/teaching. If someone asked me what his teaching style is like, I would say 'He sounds like a combination of classic jazz, a little symphonic style blues and a poetry slam. I often describe speakers & writers as melodies. Whenever I hear Jason teach at a Sunday service, I do not just leave knowing more about Jesus but, I leave desiring more of Him...and less of myself.  If you want to hear a Pastor preach in such a way that you feel fervor in your heart while your adrenaline races & your eyes often well with tears, I am inviting you to church to learn about Jesus, through his words.

 So why don't we grab some coffee & chat about the book, Tell Me Everything.

I love the title of this book. Don't you? It's so simple yet intimate & deeply personal:
Tell  - Me  - Everything. Don't just tell me how you are. Don't just tell me a part of your story. Don't just tell me the climax of the story, Tell Me Everything.

This book has me tongue tied...and trust me, that's a rarity. I read the book twice - slowly - taking so many notes up and down the margins that it looks as if a child caught hold of it with markers. I have contemplated a gross amount of time as to how to tell all of you about it.  I personally think Tell Me Everything is a fabulous choice for a book club, small group or meetup. It's a remarkable book to discuss with your spouse or over a meal w/ a friend.

I am about to share with you what this book is about but frankly, I tend to go buy a book after a friend says 'This one....this is a MUST read Kel, go get it' vs. say, coming across a lengthy book review on a blog. In other words, just head over to Amazon & buy the book (smile)!

'Tell Me Everything' obliterates the religious dogma of Christianity and replaces it with the beautiful truth of the story of Jesus. You jump into His story - with Him -and go on a journey with Jesus throughout the pages that you may have never taken before. I've not read a book even resembling this one (and those that know me well, know that I read more than the average number of books). By the end of the book, my eyes were opened to a new way of seeing Him, myself and our entire world. I would say I was 'startled' which is why I had to go back and read it twice. And I am not counting out a third time soon (yes, that good).

Jason says 'Religion is a hope which is ultimately anchored in ourselves. In other words, moralism is based on our ability to follow through on rules God sets in place'.  Jason also writes 'Religion puts people in the center of faith. Spirituality then becomes contingent on an individual's ability to define and maintain moral perfection. Religion is about what we do, what we say, what we think, what we believe, what we wear. ALL the power religion possesses is based upon personal faithfulness and goodness'. Oh my word!!!!! I am doing a vertical head bob, 'Yessssssss'. Isn't that the truth....of all of us? We focus on reading the Bible, doing what we are told, doing 'good' - we focus on ourselves.....it's all so nauseatingly about us. We may say it isn't but examine your thoughts, your speech......it is.  Admit it. It's true. My hand is raised.

Tell Me Everything shares such cool (and numerous) factual accounts of Jesus's ministry on earth and how Jesus 're-framed faith around God Himself'.  'Christianity is about someone who finds you, draws you in, then never let's go'. Isn't that incredible? Don't you want to be a part of THAT story? Christianity IS a story. Christianity is NOT a religion.  I need to stop quoting the book but, I can't help myself. This book is so beautifully written.

Dare I say I see the world differently after reading this book twice? Dare I go a step further and say that I see my own life, faith & all of Christianity through a brand new lens? How can one say that after reading a book, twice. It's true and certainly unexpected.

I am part of the story Jesus is telling with our lives. And so you are. We all are. And Jason describes in depth the various aspects of every story 'exposition, rise in action, climax, fall in action, and resolution'.  'And 'every story makes a promise. And the good stories keep their word. The Christian story promises God will be faithful'.

And one of my absolute favorite moments in the book is this sentence below....

'Faith is seeing reality even when you cannot see reality with your own eyes'.

Every chapter of this book is filled with dazzling depictions of faith, God, love, heartache, surrender, redemption, humor.....detailing a triumphant story of ongoing salvation. Jason, the way you tell this story is extraordinary.

Folks, I am postulating that your perspective of Him - your faith - your life - might 'shift' after reading Tell Me Everything. You're perspective about Jesus and faith might even radically change.

After reading Tell Me Everything, my own narrative is no longer the story I am telling. My own narrative is not - even - true. How about that?!?!?! Let that one soak in. Again, you need to read this.

'Approaching Christianity as a story devastates our will and aspirations. Jesus creates a stir religion cannot manufacture'.

Don't those words increase blood flow in your veins? Don't those words peak your interest enough to desire to know more about this 'story'?

Me too.

To learn more about Tell Me Everything & the Author, Jason Helveston, head over to his blog, stop in to Park's Logan Square campus or contact him directly via any of his social media handles found at the bottom of his website.

Hi there. It's been awhile. How is summer for all of you fab people? The weather in Chicago this summer has been absolute perfection. We have been & continue to be blessed!

I wanted to share what is to come in the next three weeks on Snapshots of Wellness! Please tune in each Tuesday for a NEW blog post starting now until August 19th. After the 19th, I will be on a lengthy holiday from the blog and social media. I am completely going 'off the grid' as I like to say until this winter! I know, it'll be a long time. I cannot wait!

So what is on the horizon for Snapshots of Wellness readers?

This upcoming Tuesday, I will be sharing with all of you all about the book, Tell Me Everything by Jason Helveston (which I mentioned in this previous blog post). I highly recommend the book folks! You can order it here on Amazon. We will talk about it and how the book has changed my perspective and 'moved me to action'. I think it might do the same for all of you. I have only reviewed one handful of books (over several years) on SW so, I hope you all realize that when I recommend a book, it obviously impacted my life in a profound way. And I am sharing it because I am hoping it will do the same for you. I think this particular book can rock your mind and heart in such a way that you see things very differently - I'll explain next week.

Next, you will all be learning about a company I was recently introduced to that I am SO INSPIRED by named Jambu & Co.

And then, one last blog for the season until this girl is disappearing from social media for a long while. I'll share my last blog about that.

Get excited along side of me & come back on Tuesday as we kick off this 'variety series of blogs' which I hope will INSPIRE YOU as much as I have been inspired. 

Have you ever just wanted to pack a bag and go? Me too.

I am planning my 'great escape'. 

SW will be blogging once in awhile in July and then that will be a wrap for the summer & fall.

I will be shutting my phone off the day I get on an airplane and going incognito for a long while!!! And I cannot wait! The only people I will be sharing details of my 'great escape' with are my dearest loved ones. I know, that doesn't seem fun but, it's something we don't experience much anymore b/c of all of our relationships with social media. For me, it'll be magical.

Certainly blogging is fun and Instagram is this techo colored-photog of inspiration (so I will be posting a lot on IG throughout July)  but, as for the rest of social media? I am not into it. I honestly do not even understand the draw anymore now that I use FB so rarely. I will share a photo to appease family but, other than that I am either in a phase or a new path to not use that site anymore. Time will tell.

I used to be ultra private....about everyyyything. And then my life became fully exposed because of my health (as most of you know). When your life becomes that much of an open book, it's oddly freeing...for awhile. I also became a Christian around the same time of my health demise and I was sharing with a large church community on an entirely new level....about every aspect of my life.

The result?

It is such a comfort to share with my dearest loved ones. It's a comfort to pray with community. But, that's where my comfort level stopped. I started to feel uncomfortably exposed and a LOT of acquaintances, new people I was/am discerning whether to build friendships with and complete strangers, ask me the most invasive questions. People from my past (aka hometown) who I have not talked to in a year or more, felt it to be OK to ask me any question imaginable about my health. Some in the city share one meal with me and think we are best friends because of a commonality. It's not welcoming, it's invasive. And I have learned not to ask others invasive questions either as a result.

And who created this over exposure? I did. I am the one who over shared about my life. And I am the one who has to change that. After tremendous amount of conversations w/ wise counsel, one of my Pastors, my mentor and those that really truly know me.....I realize that this was far from healthy. 

I am someone who still welcome 'the process' of getting to know who someone is. And trust is built over time...not overnight or weeks/months (at least the relationships I am involved in). The beauty of relationships is their natural and organic revolution. My closest male friend and I (he lives in Chicago) took about two years to become as close as we are. We got to know one another very slowly and it felt effortless. My five closest girl friends.....gosh, we have all gotten to know one another well over 'years'. I love using these incredibly healthy & special relationships as my present example for how - as of 'now' - I will be moving forward with others.

I had (and have) to set up new boundaries. People haven't responded well to 'I do not feel comfortable talking about that'. But, the beauty in putting my worth in Christ is that I don't really care what people think (other than those in my tribe). I really don't. Boundaries are so healthy and anyone that respects themselves, has good ones. So yes.....I am backing up from certain people that are drawing too close...too soon. And I am drawing very near to my tribe. I am amazed at how life changes when you stay close to those who you feel safest with. 

I really encourage all of you to use discernment and wisdom as to who gets to be 'in the arena' with you. Moving forward, the only ones in the arena with me will be those that have been with me for quite some time. And the others, I will discern and potentially build over time.

I hope this resonates with some of you! And I hope you enjoy the long weekend ahead. I will be 'under the radar' and then back chatting with you all soon. 

Happy 4th of July!

Hi there everyone! This letter is to my SW community who tune in on the weekly. I am so grateful and always surprised by so many of your positive feedback.  Also, I am always caught quite off guard when I discover that people out there are actually reading what I have to say (smile).

With that being said, I am getting an enormous number of emails with detailed specific questions about many of your health challenges. I recently told one of you I was going to share a rather transparent email about the changes I am making. And today is the day that my typing fingers and heart feel like colliding on screen.

I wanted to explain to all of you why I will no longer be answering your questions about your health. And I pray I verbalize this with grace.

Weekly, people across the country reach out to me with their stories of ill health. Sometimes I receive 75 emails a week, other times a few and there have been times I have received over 100+ (yes, it's true). You see, people are desperate for answers. So they come to me for those answers.

I read these emails and my heart breaks time and time again. I read about the lack of answers in Western medicine and clinical academia - I read about how people have lost their savings going to Functional Medicine Physicians only to find themselves worse off than they were before - I read about the pain and sadness that ensures as folks are utterly depleted from searching for healing.

I can very literally feel the desperation in so many of your written words and I know all too well, that level of uncertainty. When I had gotten sick, I reached out to people on the internet...just.like.so.many.of.you.  I share the latter to say, I am with you  - I understand you - I really get it. And it brings up so much frustration via the medical system.

With that being said, I cannot answer your health questions anymore. I think it's plain irresponsible of me. Why? Those that ask me questions....I have never met any of you. I don't know your health history, lifestyle, diet, genetic makeup, supplemental schedules, prescriptions and prescription doses, medical protocols, previous tests done, lab results, etc. And even if I had a health history, I am not a doctor nor should I be weighing in.

I can certainly recommend a physician. I can share my faith with you or recommend a chiropractor/nutritionist/acupuncturist or I can share what I do for my own health but, I cannot give any specific medical/health advice..at all.

Soooo, when I get these types of emails moving forward, I will reply with the link to this blog.

I think we are all made so uniquely and our rise out of health challenges are just as individualized. What works for one, can be horrid for another.  So, tune into yourself and to God. Ask Him. He will guide you down the right path. Stay focused - persist - endure - don't quit...ever.  And you will get there. I am amazed at the stamina of those climbing out of sickness to healthy energetic bodies!!! It's a climb that will absolutely transform every part of you - inside & out. If you all want to talk about 'that' sometime, I am up for - just let me know.

Love to you all. Enjoy the long weekend ahead!!!

We are on the 'Eve' of 4th of July weekend in Chicago!!! I cannot believe how fast this year is going by!!!! And I am not one to say that every year. I feel like last summer was perfectly paced and this summer is a blink. If I could sum up this year -  thus far  - in 5 words, they would be: Surprising. Faith Filled. Challenging. Beautiful. Wow. What words would you choose to describe your year thus far?

Today, I wanted to kick off the week (a day late but, I tend to consider Tuesday the start to the week) with a 'Best of Summer in Chicago'. If you are coming to Chicago for a long weekend stretch or you are a neighbor, here are 'SW' options to give you a healthy, lively and nature filled taste of this stunning city. All of my choices center around health & wellness....no surprise there! Let's go!

1. Green City Market
The Green City Market in Chicago is absolutely beautiful! It is nestled in Lincoln Park between the city backdrop and the lakefront. It truly is spectacular. The market itself is very large and filled with organic goodness. The farmers are so educated and willing to spend time educating you as well. While you gather fresh ingredients, live music plays from a short distance. And families gather with blankets and chairs to listen. You're a short walk to the Nature Museum, Lincoln Park Conservatory, lakefront and Cafe Brauer. I think it's the best location to spend a full day in the city. It's a must stop!

2. Architectural Tour.
Whether you live in Chicago or you are visiting, you have to take an architectural tour (there are so many to choose from). You relax with a group on the water while you are carried through the nooks of the city. You experience Chicago from such a special 'view' and the city landscape is gorgeous!

3. Roof Top restaurants & lounges. You really need to share a meal overlooking the city. Chicago is well known for it's breathtaking rooftop views. One location that just leaves you speechless: Cindy's is a rustic & natural restaurant nestled atop the Chicago Athletic Association. I highly recommend a casual meal with loved ones here. The food is superb and the views are inspiring. If you are desiring an after dinner cocktail with fab ambiance, I'd recommend Drumbar.

4. Las Palmas
Off the beaten path in Wicker Park, you'll find Las Palmas tucked into the busy street of North Avenue. Of all of the Mexican cuisine in the city (and Wicker Park for that matter), I still prefer Las Palmas. It has such a casual & neighborhood vibe. And the outdoor seating via their atrium with it's twinkling lights overhead is quaint and cozy. The guacamole is the best in the city (made table side) and the chef is willing to get creative if you are say, vegan or wanting a unique combination. Finally, I really appreciate that you can throw your hair up and toss on a t & skirt or get fancy here - anything goes.

5. Kayak.
I think kayaking is a Chicago summer 'must'. Kayaking in Chicago is one of the best ways to get in an early morning workout while experiencing the beauty of the city....from the water.

Finally, I would recommend biking to Northerly Island Park. It's so pretty & peaceful!! The view of the skyline is amazing and you are engulfed in nature. Incredible!

I've said it a great deal of times but, there is no city like Chicago in the summer. And I feel like Chicago is an oasis for healthy living! Let me know if you try any of these activities, rooftops, markets, sites, etc. And also, let me know what your 'Best of Chicago' consists of! My social media contacts are at the top of the page.

Revel in this season Chicago!

Happy Wednesday!

I'm super pressed for time this week but,  I wanted to encourage you all to take a peak at the global heavy hitter transforming lives - Sama Group!

I am receiving such a vast education about global poverty by getting educated by Sama & the Founder, Leila Janah. And you can do the same. Tune into the Sama site and get fully educated on how you can get involved.  You can also read this fabulous article which captures both Leila & Sama beautifully!!!!

We will be chatting about Sama in greater detail over the next month!

Enjoy your week! Step outside of yourself - your challenges - your life in general to peak out into the world. We all need to be better informed about the realities across the globe (from poverty to factory farms to sustainability practices - the list is so long). I appreciate Sama because they are not putting a band-aid on global rampant poverty rather they have gotten to 'the root' cause. And they are step - by - step - solving it. YES! Getting to the root of any global atrocity requires tremendous 'global effort'. And we can all be a part of that change. We have to be for our planet to heal and evolve.

Numerous of you chat w/ me via my social media outlets (particularly email). And I love interacting with all of you. I have noticed that I am getting the same questions over and over in my inbox. So, I'm going to answer them for you below! Thanks for inquiring! It's sweet that you even care to know! I love hearing about all of you too - whatever you feel compelled to share! I have been told I have one of the most interactive wellness sites in Chicago and that makes me smile.

Why do you not share more about your personal life on SW?

This is my most frequent question in 2016.

I do not share more about my personal life for several reasons, 1). I am not ready to share more details of my story on the internet and don't know if this is the arena that I ever will share details of my story, 2). If you really read my blog, you see 'bits & bites' of my story threaded throughout including my testimony under the 'Him' tab, 3). Some blogs document their travels and what they do with their time daily, who they are dating, what restaurants they are frequenting, all about their marriage, their health journey, etc. I personally love reading them. But that blogging style is just not for me. 4). The intent of SW is to get you focused on your own wellness, well being, faith walk and health. And to motivate you to look inward & outward to how you can contribute - with your gifts - to improving the health of the world.  So you will not find where I am traveling, who I am dating, details of my personal pursuits, etc. You will find a LOT about health, community, faith and wellness though (0;

P.S. I have zero interest in becoming a blogging 'personality' like many do. I personally don't like that type of attention. I thrive 'behind the scenes'. I am truly passionate about marketing so, shining the spotlight on organizations, people, companies, books, products, etc. that are changing the world. And I love to team with them behind the scenes - quietly. I also prefer to share about more of who I am with those I trust - sitting across a community dinner table - breakin' bread together.

What are your 'go to' favorite meals?
I love a Vega One Smoothie( Mocha, Chocolate & French Vanilla are my favorites) to start my day. I mix with homemade almond milk (so much protein & beyond budget friendly) and I often toss in whatever I feel like on that given day - sometimes it's hemp & chia seeds, other days it's blueberries or almond butter. The nutritional benefits of Vega Smoothies is that you don't have to add anything in at all.

I love: Sweet potatoes and kale/chard/spinach, nuts & seeds, blueberries, apples & almond butter. Those are some of my favorite snacks!

My favorite meal is one that I throw together from leftovers in my pantry. I saute a large variety of greens, top with seeds, nuts, avocados, roasted veggies and sauerkraut.

I do not eat grains of any kind, dairy, rarely processed food and I stay away from sugar (most of the time). I eat 100% organic (when I am cookin') and gluten free. And I love it!

Are you fully Vegan?

I eat primarily plant based which means not entirely. I eat what my body needs to thrive  - I eat what is best for healing & energizing my body 'in the present' - and I identify mostly with Tara Stiles outlook in her 'Make Your Own Rules Diet'.

I don't identify with personal labels at all anymore nor have I for about two years. I am a huge Animal Rights Activist and support a number of organizations that are saving animals in laboratories and elsewhere. A few examples are Beagle Freedom Project, PCRM & Wild Aid.

I use 100% cruelty free products via home, skincare, body care, etc. and I no longer purchase leather items at all. I am furthering my education on environmental sustainability as well. My goal is always to be better informed vs. opinionated.

You talk about community a lot. How do I even get into community?

I love this question and get it all the time. It confirms how much we need community - everyone desires it. 

I used to think 'being in community' meant being with a lot of people - showing up to events - parties - being in large groups. And that can be fruitful and fulfilling or it can be so lonely. For me, it was SO lonely (and frankly, beyond boring) because having surface conversations over and over again with the same people - never building real relationships -  isn't my 'thing'. I need to be highly intellectually stimulated (just my personality) so, these types of exchanges have me longing to be anywhere else.

Community to me is finding a tribe that is your family - that goes to bat for you (and you for them) when the hard times hit.  Community to me is people I grow with. Community to me are those willing to go into uncharted waters with me and me, them.  You know, when the others scatter b/c they do. Community to me means going 'deep' with a tribe you cultivated - sharing one another's burdens - and encouraging one another to evolve. And community also means doing all of the lighthearted fun activities together too.

So how do you become a part of community? In my opinion, you pray to God about it first and foremost. Tell Him the desires of your heart. And secondly, start getting to know people. You can join a church, meetups, local neighborhood community events, etc.  And then comes wisdom and discernment.

It takes a lot of time and effort. It did for me. But when you find those you trust - those that are safe -  and that have your back and you there's....it changes you internally. And when you are all willing to walk through life together - all of life (the messiness especially), you have found gold. Life changes within the context of community. And so does faith in God.

Is there anywhere in the world you plan to visit or have visited that you will share on SW?

Yes, Kenya - South Africa - Canada - Italy.

Would you ever date a SW reader?

Haha - I actually get this question so frequently. Yes, if I am single, I certainly wouldn't rule it out. But you won't find me chatting about my personal dating life on here (0;

Thanks for the questions guys & gals! I enjoy them! And I enjoy hearing about all of you!!!!

Enjoy the summer!

 
There is no city on this planet more beautiful, vibrant or electric than Chicago. Chicago is a massive playground in the summer. It's vacation for all of us. Farmers Markets - Lakefront - Sailing - Concerts - Festivals - Belmont Harbor - Navy Pier - Northerly Island - Beaches - Outdoor Cafes - Rooftop Gatherings -  - just endless daily activities and entertainment. Living here during the summer months feels like a complete dream come true. I hope you are all soaking in every last hour of every day because it goes by in a blink.

Today I wanted to share a few bits & bites! If you are new to Snapshots of Wellness, Bits & Bites is a frequent 'Friday' blog about a large variety of bits & bites of wellness/life/health. I share whatever comes to mind.

First & foremost, the number of fantastic books on the market continues to rise. I am eager to read a book by Jason Helveston, Tell Me Everything.

If you are unfamiliar with Jason or Jason's website, go here and learn more. I am going to do a mini-book club with some in Chicago to discuss Tell Me Everything! We can all order the book via Amazon on June 20th which is right around the corner. So after we order it, we can meet back here on SW and discuss a time to meet over coffee - a roundtable discussion if you will over how these pages brought life to our own stories. Sound good? And if you are wondering what the book is about, I encourage you to be resourceful and head over to watch the ah-mazing - trailer.

I recently read 'If' by Mark Batterson. This book really had me looking inward at how I am walking in faith and with God. I highly recommend 'If'. And this self evaluation led me to observing my speech and types of conversations I am having on the daily.

God says that we have the power of life or death in the tongue...in our words (Proverbs 18:21). We literally have the 'power' of 'life' or 'death' in our speech. I notice that I talk about my problems a tremendous amount. And I notice others do too. So I began scouring The Bible for every single instruction from God regarding my speech - hours upon hours of diving into His Word. And the conclusion I came to was that I need to communicate in a brand new way. NOW - not tomorrow or 'one day'. NOW. And I need accountability. I need to replace every single doubt, complaint, fear based communication with The Word of God. So, I organized massive accountability. And I am changing my language, re-framing my perspective and talking about joys vs. tribulations.

Have any of you read 'A Complaint Free World' by Will Bowen? I was just gifted the book. And if you have read it, tell me your thoughts via any of my social media outlets. Yesterday, I decided to do a 30 Day No Complaint Challenge with anyone on IG that wanted to join me. If you want to join in, well come on! Head over to my IG (link to your right). June 8th - July 8th, we are not sharing ONE complaint and not discussing problems of any sort. We are replacing all complaining and negativity with sharing joys, gratitude and speaking LIFE into our lives. It's a FREE challenge that can only benefit our speech. Are you in? I hope so.

My next blog will be a Q&A from my readers. I continue to be asked the same questions over and over. So, I thought I would answer with a short blog post! So, expect that shortly.

Enjoy this weekend. Get outdoors. Hug someone you love. Better yet, tell someone you love just how much you love them and why. And get out of your comfort zone. Have FUN!

I'll meet you back here next week. I appreciate you tuning in (grateful)!

People ask me why I rarely share recipes on SW. And it's because 1). I never measure anything, 2). I creatively make meals spontaneously each day.

My body really responds well to whole organic foods from the earth. And I  - unlike many others - have an appetite for less ingredients in everything I make....or bake.

I love purchasing large amounts of organic produce (for example) and then pick & choose that evening what to saute. When I bake, I tend to look over someone's recipe and then create my own version.

Today, I want to talk about these raw gooey brownies I make all - the - time. I freeze them and like having them on hand to satisfy my sweet tooth. They are made with all healthy organic ingredients and I - thankfully - miss out on the sugar crash and 'white carbs'....all of that toxicity that so many baked goods come with. And there is no processed sugar of any kind (hence the lack of a 'crash' after eating). You actually gain energy after eating them. So delicious!

I first learned how to make raw brownies after reading Deliciously Ella's recipe here.

Deliciously Ella's Raw Brownies were soooo good that I just started making my own variations over time. And that's the fun in baking!

I'll share various ingredients I toss into the blender: Organic Medjool Dates, Raw Cacao, whatever organic 'nut' I have in my pantry (almonds, walnuts, pecans, etc.), Coconut Oil & a little bit of Maple Syrup. And those are the base for Ella's recipe and many others. And then I get creative!  I love to then sprinkle in whatever seeds I have: Chia, Hemp, Pumpkin, Flax, etc. Sometimes I add in goji berries or raisins.  I make them differently every single time. This last batch, I added in roasted almond butter. And I blend.

Oh wait....you know what I did once? Prepare to salivate. I made the raw brownies and then melted a portion of a dark chocolate bar over low heat. And then poured it over the brownies - placed in the freezer - and they were so insanely good!!!! The dark chocolate served as the icing. Oh my goodness.

Try these sometime vs. grabbing for that doughnut or packaged/processed 'treat'.

I am jumping off the internet for the rest of the weekend. And ya'll know what I am about to do right now.....yes, grab a raw gooey brownie out of the freezer.

Happy Memorial Day weekend (again....see post below)!

 
It's Friday!!!! This makes me soooo happy. Can you believe it's Memorial Day weekend? This year is just flying by at warp speed! I almost cannot wrap my brain around it.

So here we are on the 'eve' of summer and I thought this was a perfect day to share with you my experience with the recent DIY Beauty event hosted by Sarah Baker & Fresh Thyme Farmer's Market! And you are all in for a treat because I am sharing The Matcha Face Mask 'recipe' that you can make at home as soon as this weekend to get your skin hydrated, supple and glowing!

Let's get to it!

Who is Sarah Baker & what/where is Fresh Thyme Farmer's Market? As if. I'll explain anyway....

Sarah Baker is the wildly popular -Chicago based wellness media personality - Certified Plant Based Nutrition & Holistic Heath/Lifestyle Coach & Founder of The Balanced Babe. The list does not stop there so pa-lease go join the Balanced Babe community! From my own perspective, The Balanced Babe community is a worldwide community of diverse people who are health and wellness minded - people who desire to evolve into and through a holistic lifestyle. And Sarah will walk that path with you. What I appreciate is that she has so many options for us to choose from as far as how we want to be best educated to be our healthiest selves.

Sooo, if you want to attend her events, they are so fun & educational.  If you don't wanna leave your home and rather watch her on various television shows, you'll pick up invaluable health tips. And, let's not leave out the 'jaw dropping' success of the BeHealthful Retreats (psst, my favorite retreat each year).

OK, I need to stop sharing about what Sarah does b/c I am supposed to talk about DIY Beauty! But.....what is crazy is she does WAY more then what I just share above. Isn't that cray? And she has stayed humble and filled with integrity while doing it all.

Are ya'll still with me? I hope so!

Sarah teamed up with Fresh Thyme Farmer's Market.  This quaint (and incredible) organic farmers market is located on Elston in the city. Who knew?!!! I continue to digress but, I had no idea this fab organic & holistic market was even here! And it's an 8 minute trek for those in Wicker Park!

In my own interpretation, Fresh Thyme Farmer's Market is a combination of various outdoor farmers markets in the city  - all in one....but even better!!!! The store design has this grassroots & cozy feel with the most healthy organic produce in the city of Chicago (along with numerous other healthy food & products). And here I was shopping at Whole Foods all this time....missing out on this (and these prices)! You guys, please - head - over! And tell me about your experience!

This blog is not going as planned b/c I haven't even talked about the event yet - haha. Oh come on. Tell me you all stay on topic when you are chattin' with friends - OK then.

Let's get to the DIY Beauty event! Sarah hosted this event at Fresh Thyme.

The scene: A group of ladies snacked on organic fruits & hydrating sips while learning about natural beauty hacks you can do right at home! And not just learning but, making them along side Sarah! Sarah educated us on various benefits of matcha, botanical steams, etc.

What was great was after you learned how to make the face masks, steams & essential oil sprays, you can simply walk over and shop for the products at Fresh Thyme! What was even better is that Sarah breaks it down for you.....meaning, you learn the 'why' behind the benefits of matcha for your skin and the why behind every beauty regimen she shared. It's one thing to eat healthy & choose a holistic healthcare regimen. But it's empowering when your informed as to why it's the best choice for your body.

Do you all know how budget friendly, healthy & FUN it is to make your own skincare at home?!! And what is even better is.... the results!

I am going to share the Matcha Face Mask recipe below (you are so very welcome) and then, I am going to share more about this event after Memorial Day weekend! I am aware this blog is getting long and we all have places to be...am I right?

Matcha Face Mask:
3 tsp of Republic of Tea Matcha Powder
1 tsp Coconut Oil  or 1 tsp aloe vera gel
Squirt of Lemon
Note: For extra dry skin - add one tsp of seasame oil

Result? The softest and most hydrating skin. It's ah-ma-zing. 

Cost? Combining all of the ingredients above, the cost is less than 20.00 AND there is enough product for about 10-12 of these face masks!!! Just take that in folks - a fully organic - healthy - antioxidant infused - facial at home (x 10) for around 20.00.

If you are not running over to Fresh Thyme by the time your done reading this & heading over to The Balanced Babe to learn more......well, then I didn't do my job here today (0; So, I'll be back after the holiday weekend to tell you even more (and I promise to share more DIY recipes and make the blog short...and sweet)!

Cheers to supple skin & the kick off to the summer months ahead! Happy Memorial Day weekend friends!

Happy Saturday! I am starting off this blog by specifying that....that is not my foot. It is a male foot (0; haha - vanity. I was like 'I do not want my readers to think that is MY foot'. But doesn't that organic plant based box looks incredible?!

I had somehow mentally convinced myself that having a monthly veggie/fruit organic delivery to my door was 'way too expensive' but, when calculating food budgets both small and large (my own and many friends), it's actually LESS expensive for all of us to have organic deliveries and more healthy TO invest in this.

In Chicago, the two best organic deliveries (in my opinion) are Angela's Organics and Door to Door Organics. I have not tried either but, I will be trying both to decide which I prefer! Have you ever used either? Let me know!

Also, Farmer's Market season is starting NOW! Yay! Here is a list of 'all' of the Chicago's farmers markets in the city. My personal fav. is the Green City Market in Lincoln Park. Why? It's festive and the location is so beautiful! It really feels like bliss when I am there on a Saturday. Living in this city is a such a blessing.

Enjoy your weekend! It's gorgeous out so, don't waste it indoors! How long have we waited for the sun & warm weather? Longgggg.

The Power of The Other by Dr. Henry Cloud is such a necessary education about the power that others have 'in' our life both in the workplace - in leadership - and at home. And the power we have in theirs. It's a fascinating account about our connections and whether or not we will flourish or flounder in every single relationship in each of our lives. The best part? He gives you a detailed map of what to do about every relationship.

Dr. Cloud breaks this down into four basic relationships that he refers to as Corner 1, 2, 3 & 4. Every single relationship in your life whether that be personal or professional will fall into one of the 4 categories. He simplifies the complexities of relationships just brilliantly. And provides a science supported documentary in writing (that's what it feels like when you read it) of connections.

What I appreciated most about the book was the level of clarity that I had as I learned about each 'Corner Relationship'. I was able to quickly discern which 'corner' each of my relationships fell into and why. And then Dr. Cloud provides the tools to advance those relationships to the healthiest of the four which is a Corner Four Relationship. You need to read the book to find out what each relationship entails. But he provides every single ingredient and tool to make sure that your relational life is thriving and healthy both in your career and your personal life.

Here is an excerpt about the book that I thought summed it up well:Popular wisdom suggests that we should not allow others to have power over us, but the reality is that they do, for better or for worse. Consider the boss who diminishes you through cutting remarks versus one who challenges you to get better. Or the colleague who always seeks the limelight versus the one who gives you the confidence to finish a difficult project. Or the spouse who is honest and supportive versus the one who resents your success. No matter how talented, intelligent, or experienced, the greatest leaders share one commonality: the power of the others in their lives.

Combining engaging case studies, persuasive findings from cutting-edge brain research, and examples from his consulting practice, Dr. Cloud argues that whether you’re a Navy SEAL or a corporate executive, outstanding performance depends on having the right kind of connections to fuel personal growth and minimize toxic associations and their effects. Presenting a dynamic model of the impact these different kinds of connections produce, Dr. Cloud shows readers how to get more from themselves by drawing on the strength and expertise of others. You don’t have a choice whether or not others have power in your life, but you can choose what kinds of relationships you want.

The Power of The Other launches NEXT WEEK! What I thought would be impactful for all of the SW Readers is if those of you who purchase the book, we will break down the chapters here on SW....together. And we can create a community forum to discuss it.

Who should buy this book? Everyone. Truly. While he focuses on leadership in all areas of life, this book is also for the housewife - the student - caregiver - wife - husband  - friend - etc. This book is truly for all of us. And I personally feel that every leader in any organization should be devouring Dr. Cloud's gathered wisdom.

Please head over to his site (links all over this blog), purchase the book and let's meet back here in about a week to discuss!

Chat with you all soon!