Well this past week has been one of the most satisfying, interesting and a sure sign of what is yet to come for my future.

I am in full swing of my new position at work, Office Assistant and Curriculum Coordinator. Tackling a new curriculum program, making it work with my school culture and needs. Exciting and fun! Getting everyone on board, excited and willing, is a slightly different challenge. 

I went back to school FULL TIME. CSULB has proven to meet and exceeded my expectations. I didn't realize how proud and excited I am to be a student. There is something to be said about making it one's own personal goal and need instead of family and society expectations. 

Today I met a dear friend who has recently changed her life journey and began to study something new in NYC. As I reflected on the fact, that she and I don't let life happen to us. Well we used to perhaps. But then something lit inside and pushed us toward change. No one can do it. It has to be an inner journey.

This inner journey has been an exact year for her, and mine is just starting. In this moment I can truly say that I'm proud of myself. And her. And on the day of graduation, I don't know of two people who will more proud of each other than us. Even though we are now miles apart our love and support for each other is necessary. Everyone needs that person, and while I of course have my wonderful husband and super supportive parents. But it's this journey that we are going through together that makes our connection special. 

Cheers to friendship, to perseverance and to being a go-getter

Favorite Stuffed Peppers...you can't even tell they are Vegetarian and Gluten-Free

They could be Vegan but I love cheese too much...

This all began when I completely cleaned out two bell peppers and decided not to cook them. So I thought, hmmm what can I whip up now and bake in the am. When I have energy to deal with cooking another thing.

In my fridge I always have a container of drained black beans, as I throw them on salads or nachos. I also always have fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes and frozen corn. Luckily though, I had a can of Fire Roasted tomatoes, if you don't have that, then add your favorite salsa. Oh, and add cooked quinoa for some extra fiber and protein. 

 

Here's the list:

• 2 peppers cleaned out, if they don't stand up
• then slice a little from the bottom
• 1 can black beans (drained)
• 10 or so quartered cherry tomatoes
• A bunch of spinach
• 1 cup of corn (frozen or fresh
• 1/2 cup chopped white onion
• 1 cup cooked quinoa

Bake for 20 minutes at 450, then remove peppers

and add cheese, pop in for another 5 and enjoy! 

Toppings can include fresh cilantro or avocado, 

I took mine to work and heated up for 2 minutes.

It was the perfect filling but not heavy lunch!

Morning Necessities...and the best pill ever

So, I'm not one to openly talk about my gas issues. But, do to my diet based on fruits, veggies and nuts, I have gas. Until this magic little vitamin came into my life, thanks to my mom. Who in all honesty could have been the first health guru as all of her knowledge and lifestyle choices that she has had over the last 25 plus years is now TRENDY. Anyways, my point is to share my knowledge since it's not a topic one diseases over a glass of wine with their girlfriends, but most google or search pinterest to find a solution (speaking from experience)

So every morning, when I drink my warm lemon water with honey, I take this Pro Biotic, and of course my morning cup of black coffee, because I am a mom and teacher after all. 

From a post I found, health begins in the gut...

• boosting immune system.
• prevent and treat urinary tract infections.
• improve digestive function.
• heal inflammatory bowel conditions like IBS. ... 
• manage and prevent eczema in children.
• fight food-borne illnesses

Check out this awesome article as to why I began drinking my warm lemon water...

http://www.davidwolfe.com/20-incredible-things-that-happen-when-adding-warm-lemon-water-to-your-morning-routine/

Tuna salad re-vamped

I love tuna, ahi style. I was always grossed out by the canned version. 

But one day I had an amazing tuna sandwich on a whim, at Dory Deli. It's by the pair in Newport Beach. Check it out, it's fantastic.

Anyways, I suppose I disliked the idea of tuna in a can, since it's well, in a can. But also since typically it's mixed with mayo. I not a fan of mayo...

But this sandwich had tuna with balsamic vinegar, mixed greens, fresh tomatoes...things I love.

So, my tuna salad varies depending on the fresh produce I have on hand. But usually it goes like this:

1 can drained tuna

About 10 sliced cherry tomatoes

1 can of sliced olives

4 slices, quartered cucumbers

Fresh lemon juice

Now, that's the minimum, add some chopped bell peppers, olives, capers...

And any mixed greens you like.

The dressing:
1 heaping tbsp of Dijon Mustard
2-3 tbsp of balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
Some italian seasonings...