Five Simple Things (December 29)

 Hello.

Here are five things this week.

1. These stockings.

Hung by the "chimney" with care.

2. These enchiladas.

We like to mix it up around the end of the year and instead of having the same foods for holidays back to back, we have a Mexican entrée on December 25. If Hanukkah falls closer to December 25, we try to definitely mix it up with some different options that what we have on Thanksgiving. We make a lot of chicken and beef enchiladas, or tacos, and freeze the leftovers. Sometimes we eat on them for several days until New Years when we then have homemade pizzas. It's been a good change of pace and we love it.

3. These gifts.

Skylar is always fun to buy for. We got him a selection of horror-themed socks this year and some new gloves he can use while he goes to college. Hopefully, on chilly nights, he will grab these cozy gifts to warm up.

4. This helper.

Skylar helped me get all the food ready this year and I loved his help. Last year he was working and wasn't able to help as much. I love that he still sits on the kitchen counter while I cook. I will definitely miss these days when he moves out.

5. This moment.

Such a good time.☺

One last thing:

We have been trying to get better when our stocking and gift-giving each year, and this year I feel we found some good choices. Giving with intention is important. And healthy candy options with sugar are a top priority. We reach for organic over conventional and doing that we are casting a vote on what we want to see on the store shelves. I wish more people would put thought into what they purchase, not to mention, what they put in their bodies. Small changes do make a big difference. You are welcome to copy these items pictured for your next holiday gift buying, or any time throughout the year.

Positive affirmations this week:

Eating more wholesome, whole, nutritious foods can have great benefits for your mental health and overall physical health. Your wellbeing is your responsibility and taking control of what you put in your body and how you treat your body can help you stay on the right path with your mental state, too. Here are some foods to help get you started on the right path.

1. Apples: Fiber, Vitamin C, Gut Health, Brain Health.

2. Beets: Folate, Fiber, Digestive Health.

3. Broccoli: Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Immunity.

4. Brussels Sprouts: Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Heart Health, Bone Health, Immunity.

5. Cabbage: Vitamin B6, Folate, Fiber.

6. Carrots: Vitamin A, Eye Health, Potassium, Blood Pressure Regulation.

7. Cauliflower: Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Fiber.

8. Kale: Beta-Carotene, Antioxidant, Vitamin A, Vitamin K.

9. Onions: Potassium, Vitamin C, Immunity.

10. Parsnips: Fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate.

11. Pears: Anthocyanin, Chlorogenic Acid, Certain Cancer Protections.

12. Potatoes: Vitamin C, Potassium, Heart Health.

13. Quince: Vitamin C, Fiber, Immunity.

14. Rutabaga: Vitamin C, Antioxidant, Potassium, Fiber.

15. Swiss Chard: Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Magnesium.

16. Turnips: Vitamin C, Glucosinolates, Antioxidant.

17. Winter Squash (Acorn, Butternut, Spaghetti, etc.): Fiber, Vitamin A.

Happy holidays from our family to yours!

Have a nice weekend.