The Glop

I wish this was a fun and clever acronym but alas, it is just what I call the pureed vegetable and fruit concoction I make about twice a week and try to drink every day.  I first started making "smoothies" for my mom when she was laid up after surgery and not eating much, so she would be sure to get some nutrition.

Then, over time I modified or I should say simplified down to something that I credit with eliminating another layer of fat from my abdomen and renewing my energy.  Also, I have a good feeling about getting more vegetables and fruits into my diet.  This is so simple.  I use a blender, not even a food processor, which I guess might be better.  I puree a handful of baby spinach, a carrot, and any other vegetable I have on hand, like squash, green beans, green pepper, etc.  Then I add a banana, an orange (with a little of the peel for vitamin K), an apple, maybe a peach, etc. and a couple of different kinds of berries, usually blueberries and raspberries.  So, whatever you have, but a variety of good anti oxident fruits.   

For liquid I use pure cranberry juice but orange or apple juice will work to make the consistancy drinkable.  I end up with a full blender.  I think the cranberry helps overcome the vegetable taste, but honestly, this has not been an issue.  It tastes really good.  I only drink about 6 ounces a day.  Be sure to store in the refrigerator in an opaque container, since light can destroy the vitamins.

Reposting S. America

I  Just found this unbelievable shot of Rio taken on our S. America cruise two years ago.  It is as beautiful as it looks, as you know if you have been.  The shot of my husband, Tim, and I is taken at an Aztec ruin near Lima.  Cruising is the way to go.  Have you tried it?  There are fantastic deals to be had.

Synergy Decor at The Barn

Don't forget to check out our shops at The Barn in Castle Rock.  Let me know what you think about us.  Please visit Synergy, one of the 20 stores under our 100 year old roof.  Tell me if there is something you are looking for but could not find and I'll see if I can accomodate.   http://www.synergyatthebarn.com/ 

What book, you ask?

Well, I've always wanted to try to write fiction.  My Fed job entailed mass quantities of writing, but not anything fun and definitely nonfiction.  So, I'm parlaying my knowledge of cruise ships and South American destinations into a murder mystery with several different twists.  I have about 250 pages written and still don't know if it is any good.  So I plan to enlist the help of some readers who like this genre and are willing to provide brutal feedback, before I plunge into publishing....first, though, I have to finish it. Agh!!

Another wellness tip

Putting too much pressure on ourselves raises anxiety, which is self-defeating.  Weight loss, like anything else worth achieving in life takes time and dedication.  View it as a job.  Something you know you will achieve over time.  Relax and trust in the simple fact that your body will respond positively to reducing calories, without drastic diet alterations.  Of course, the more you are used to eating, the more change you will have to make.  Count those calories and stay around 1200 perday.  WHOLE GRAIN is the key.  Fills you up, provides fiber, and along with water, will help shed the pounds.