Off To a Great Start

With the old year behind us and a new year before us, it’s time to look forward to the future. Many tend to make resolutions for the new year in areas such as healthy eating, weight loss, exercise, quitting smoking or simply trying to be a better person. However, If we truly desire change in our lives for the better, God is the key to making that change. Putting God first in our lives ensures a great start both spiritually and physically for the new year!

As Christians, getting off to a great start spiritually means committing to the Christian life. We commit by trusting God, studying his word and living in accordance to his will. God has a purpose and a plan for each of our lives (Ephesians 2:10). By putting him at the head of our lives, we give him full reign over every area of our lives. Committing to God enables us to become stronger Christians useful for the many tasks set before us. So, this year why not join a bible study class, learn who God is and all that he has for us. Look for opportunities to volunteer and share the good news of Jesus. God desires that we use our gifts and talents to accomplish these tasks to serve him and others throughout the year.

Finally, for getting a great start physically, Philippians 4:13 says, " I can do all things through him who gives me strength." " But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33

While working on staying spiritually strong, I also like to take care of my body on the inside and the outside. Some of things I like to do to live a healthy lifestyle are incorporating physical activity and eating healthy. Lately, my workout of choice has been walking. I like to walk around my neighborhood with my husband enjoying the fresh air or on my treadmill. For foods, I've really been into kale lately because of all of its health benefits and detox properties. These are a couple of my favorite recipes:

Kale Pineapple Smoothie

Kale Pineapple Smoothie

1 Cup of frozen pineapples

1 Cup of kale

1 Cup of coconut water

2 Tablespoons of honey

1 Tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

1 Tablespoon ground flaxseeds (optional)

Blend the frozen pineapples, kale & coconut water together in your blender until fully pureed. Next, add the honey and finish blending. Top with chia/ flaxseeds and enjoy while cold!

Jewelry can be found online at AshleyandMelissa.com.

Kale Quiche

Kale Quiche

6 Eggs

2/3 Cup water

6 Slices fried bacon (chopped)

1 Cup shredded colby jack cheese

1 Deep dish pie crust

1/2 Cup onions (chopped & sauteed)

1/2 Cup of shredded spinach

1/2 Cup of shredded kale (sauteed for about 30 seconds)

Pinch of salt

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Evenly puncture pie crust with a fork 4-5 times and bake uncovered for 10 minutes. Blend eggs, water & salt together. Add the sauteed onions, cooked kale, chopped spinach, 1/2 of the cooked bacon, 1/2 of the shredded cheese & stir lightly. Pour mixture into deep dish pie crust. Cover pie with foil & bake for 35 minutes at 375-degrees. Next, remove foil & sprinkle the remaining cheese & bacon. Bake for an additional 5 minutes uncovered. Serve with fresh tomato slices, cilantro, olives or any topping of your choice & enjoy!