GINGERBREAD COOKIE SMOOTHIE RECIPE

The holiday season is upon us and things are as busy as ever. Our book , The Inner Peace Diet, was just released by Penguin and is receiving tons of positive feedback. During these exciting times, it is important to nourish our bodies with a healthy breakfast. Here is a quick, easy and festive smoothie recipe that will jump start your holiday mornings.

Gingerbread Cookie Smoothie

1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 cup of soy milk or skim milk
1 tablespoon organic honey
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup nonfat yogurt
1 small ripe banana
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
dash allspice
handful of ice cubes

1. Place all above ingredients in blender. Process on high speed until very smooth. Serve immediately.

YUMMY LEFTOVER THANKSGIVING TURKEY RECIPE

We hope you had a great Thanksgiving yesterday. Below please find a yummy way you can enjoy some turkey or Tofu-rkey leftovers. Gratitude is a powerful feeling that momentarily eradicates negativity and stress from our lives. To experience lasting inner peace, try ending each day by being grateful for all the gifts in your life. Offer thanks to yourself, your higher power or the people that surround you on your life’s path. It is extremely helpful to maintain a journal of appreciation and thankfulness. Many people find the mere practice of keeping a gratitude journal helps them to maintain lasting inner peace. We would like to conclude this blog entry by thanking you, dear reader for you time and attention. We are grateful for your support and interest in our work. We wish you peace and love on your journey.

Revitalizing Rice and Turkey Salad


10 ounces vegetable stock, organic and ready to serve
1 cup water
1 cup brown rice, long-grain, uncooked
1 cup whole kernel sweet corn
1 fresh tomato, seeded and chopped
1/2 cup peas
1/2 cup shredded carrot
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/3 cup fresh parsley
3/4 cup turkey, cooked

1. In large stockpot over medium high heat, blend vegetable stock and water. Bring to a rapid boil. Add brown rice, corn, peas and carrots. Stir well.

2. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is tender and most of the water is absorbed.

3. Gradually add lemon juice and olive oil to mixture. Mix well. Add cheese, tomato, parsley and turkey. Toss well to coat

4. Transfer mixture to bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least three hours. Serve.


Yield: 6 servings

HEALTHY AND DELICIOUS THANKSGIVING RECIPE

In just a few days, we will be celebrating Thanksgiving. We would like to offer a warm thank you to all of our faithful blog readers! We are very grateful for your support and wish you a peaceful and joyous holiday. Here is healthy and nutritious Thanksgiving Day side dish that is guaranteed to get rave reviews.

Hugo's Cranberry Apple Slaw

1/3 cup organic honey
1/2 tsp dry mustard
pinch celery seed
dash sea salt
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup lime juice
16 oz bag of broccoli coleslaw mix (or shred your own cabbage and broccoli)
1.5 cups shredded carrots
1 cup apple. diced very small
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup green onions
3 tablespoons toasted sunflower seeds

1. To make dressing: In a large bowl, whisk honey. dry mustard, celery seed, sea salt, oil, and lime juice until well blended.

2. To make slaw: In a large bowl, mix together broccoli coleslaw, carrots, apples, cranberries and green onions. Pour dressing over slaw mixture.Toss well. Refrigerate overnight. Gently fold in sunflower seeds just prior to serving.

Hugo's Pumpkin Cranberry Muffins

We just turned our clocks back in Northeastern United States and the days are getting shorter and colder. Now is the perfect time to try some new simple recipes or revisit your old family favorites. Tonight's recipe is a simple and delicious pumpkin cranberry muffin from Chef Hugo. This nutritious little cake is great for breakfast when paired with a piece of fruit and some soy milk. It can also be enjoyed as a guilt free dessert. Enjoy!

Hugo's Pumpkin Cranberry Muffins

Serves 12

1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1 cup bran flakes, crushed
1/3 cup sugar
1 tablespoon organic honey
dash salt
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
½ teaspoon allspice
½ cup plain fat free yogurt
1 large organic egg
1 cup pumpkin cooked and mashed (or use canned)
Dash vanilla extract
½ cup dried cranberries


1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly coat one standard muffin tins with non-stick vegetable oil cooking spray.

2. In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, bran flakes, sugar, honey, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and allspice. In separate bowl, combine fat free yogurt, egg, pumpkin and vanilla. Mix well. Combine ingredients from both mixing bowls together. Stir until just blended. Gently fold in dried cranberries.


3. Pour batter into muffin tins. Bake for 28 -30 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center of muffin comes out clean. Allow to cool for 20 minutes. Remove muffins from muffin tins. Serve and enjoy!

A PUMPKIN PIE SMOOTHIE IS A GREAT WAY TO START THE DAY

Most health experts agree that one of the building blocks to good health is eating a daily breakfast. For many families, mornings are a hectic experience with little time for food preparation or newfangled ideas. Here is an easy to prepare, nutritious breakfast recipe that will devoured by people of all ages. Best of all, this delicious drink is festive and in season right now.


HUGO'S PUMPKIN PIE SMOOTHIE

Serves 2

1 cup pumpkin , cooked and mashed (or use canned)
1 cup of soy milk or skim milk

1 tablespoon organic honey

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup nonfat yogurt
1 small ripe banana
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
handful of ice cubes

1. Place all ingredients in blender. Puree on high speed until mixture is thoroughly blended. Serve immediately.

To boost this smoothie's nutritional value, add some flaxseed oil or some protein powder. Enjoy!

THE BEST PUMPKIN COOKIE RECIPE EVER!

Fall is finally here in the Northeast. The days are getting shorter and the winds are getting cooler. It's a great time to indulge your sweet tooth and whip a a batch of Guilt Free Pumpkin Carob Chip Cookies. This is a natural and relatively healthy cookie recipe. Best of all, it's easy to prepare. (and they are extra yummy when paired with a skinny maple walnut cappuccino or pumpkin spice latte)

Hugo's Pumpkin Carob Chip Cookies

1/2 cup light butter
2 organic cage free eggs, slightly beaten
1 cup dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons organic honey
1 cup pumpkin, cooked and mashed (or use canned)
2 and 1/2 cups of whole wheat pastry flour
1 tsp salt
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup skim milk
1/2 tsp cloves
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup walnuts
1/4 cup carob chips

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter. Add eggs and mix well. Gradually add dark brown sugar, organic honey, pumpkin, whole wheat pastry flour, salt, baking soda, skim milk, cloves. Mix well.

2. Gently fold in walnuts and carob chips.

3. Drop batter in small balls on a cookie sheet light coated with non stick vegetable oil spray. Bake in oven for 12-16 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool on wire rack. Enjoy!

Hugo's Cream of Pumpkin Soup Recipe

Hugo and I are loving the warm fall weather we are having here in Delaware. Here is an easy recipe for a delicious fall soup that will surely please your crowd.


Hugo's Cream of Pumpkin Soup

Yield 5 servings


1 15 ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 large Vidalia onion, chopped fine
1 cup skim milk
2 cups pumpkin, cooked and mashed (or use canned)
1 1/2 cups apple cider
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
½ cup nonfat yogurt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
salt and pepper to taste

1. In food processor or blender, process black beans, onion and skim milk until very smooth.
2. In a large stockpot over medium high heat, add mashed pumpkin, cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
3. Gradually pour black bean and milk mixture into stockpot.
4. Cook soup over low heat for 20 minutes, just until heated through. Ladle into portions and serve with dollop of nonfat yogurt. Sprinkle with fresh basil. Serve.

HAPPY FALL!

Fall is finally here and we hope you are enjoying this beautiful season. We look forward to sharing lots of our favorite pumpkin and apple recipes with you. Here's a simple and delicious recipe for Apple Quesadillas. These make a great breakfast entree and are also a healthy and innovative dessert. Enjoy!

Apple Quesadillas

Serves 2

¼ cup Nuefatchel or nonfat cream cheese, softened or whipped

1 tablespoon organic honey

2 whole wheat tortillas

1/2 cup apples, cored and diced small

2 tablespoons raisins

2 tablespoons chopped walnuts

In small bowl, beat together cream cheese and honey. Carefully spread ½ cream cheese mixture on each tortilla. Place apples on top of cream cheese. Sprinkle evenly with raisins and walnuts. Fold tortilla in half. If desired, lightly toast or place in microwave for 30 seconds. It is also delicious if served cold. Cut in half or fourths and serve.

RECIPE FOR PEACE..PEACEFUL PEACH PIZZA, THAT IS

"If you hold an anti-war rally, I will not attend. If you hold a pro-peace rally, invite me."
Mother Teresa


I love this quote by Mother Teresa and think of it often during election time. I am most interested in candidates who are "for" the issues and causes I am passionate rather than globally"against" things. In my personal and professional life, I find that I am most effective when I working toward a solution rather than fighting against negative situations.

What are you"for" in life? How can you transform something you are against into something that you stand up for?

Here's a recipe for Healthy Peaceful Peach Pizza for you!

Enjoy!



Peaceful Peach Pizza


For the pizza crust:
1/2 cup transfat free margarine
1 tsp cinnamon
1/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons organic honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
2 teaspoons baking powder

For the pizza topping :
8 ounces nonfat cream cheese, softened
3 tablespoons organic honey
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh peaches, cored and diced
2 tablespoons golden raisins, seedless


1. Preheat oven to 375F.
2. To make pizza crust, Combine margarine, cinnamon, sugar, honey, vanilla and egg in a large bowl. Beat well. Add flour and baking powder and stir until blended.
3. Spread mixture into a 9 X 13 baking pan.
4. Bake for 10 to 13 minutes or until crust is lightly golden on top. Cool for about 30 minutes.
5. To make icing, combine softened cream cheese, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla. Spread over top of pizza crust.
6. Place peaches on top of crust. Sprinkle raisins on top of pizza. Slice into pizza triangles and Serve.

WHAT TIME IS IT WHERE YOU ARE?

"For everything there is a season,And a time for every matter under heaven:A time to be born, and a time to die;A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;A time to kill, and a time to heal;A time to break down, and a time to build up;A time to weep, and a time to laugh;A time to mourn, and a time to dance;A time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing;A time to seek, and a time to lose;A time to keep, and a time to throw away;A time to tear, and a time to sew;A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;A time to love, and a time to hate,A time for war, and a time for peace."

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8


What kind of time are you are experiencing now? If you're not sure, try spending some time in silance and tuning into your own inner wisdom. Have a great holiday weekend!

Love,
Aileen

CONGRATULATIONS JOE BIDEN!!!!

Hugo and I are so proud of Fellow Delawarean Senator Joe Biden who was recently named vice -presidential candidate! You go, Joe! Senator Biden has selflessly served our home state of Delaware for over 35 years and is a dedicated and hardworking man. Senator Biden dined at our family restaurant Hugo's Inn on numerous occasions and will always be remembered as a very down to earth, authentic, and approachable guy. In my work as a Delaware licensed clinical social worker and community health nurse, I have personally seen how Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden have positively impacted our community and improved many lives. Senator Biden and his family live less than 2 miles from us and we are so grateful for what they have contributed to our town! Whatever your political affiliation, (or lack thereof ) we wish you and your family inner peace and good health!

YUMMY PEACH BREAD RECIPE FOR YOU

Peach season has arrived here in Delaware and this sweet delicious fruit is abundant. Here is a delicious and healthy recipe created by Chef Hugo for you. Enjoy!

Hugo's Peach Bread

1 cup fresh ripe peaches, cored and diced
1/2 cup organic honey
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 whole egg
1 egg white
1/2 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 tablespoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup flax seed oil

. Preheat oven to 350 F. In a large bowl, stir together peaches, honey, brown sugar, flax seed oil, eggs, orange juice and vanilla extract. Slowly add dry ingredients to mixture. Stir until well blended. Fold in walnuts.

2. Grease 9 by 5 bread pan with cooking spray. Pour batter evenly into pan.

3. Bake 45 minutes. Remove from oven when toothpick inserted into center of bread comes out clean. Cool in pan for ten minutes and transfer to wire rack.

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM?

"I have learned, that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours."

Henry David Thoreau


Dreaming is an essential part of life. Having a dream that excites and inspires you is as necessary as breathing. Without dreams, most people become apathetic and at best, function on autopilot. What is your greatest hope or dream? What small step (or giant leap) can you take today to bring your personal dream to fruition?

LAVENDER PEACH MUFFIN RECIPE FOR YOU

A SATURDAY NIGHT SNACK RECIPE FOR YOU

Chef Hugo is developing a new spicy walnut snack recipe. This delicious, newly minted recipe is sweet, spicy and high in fiber. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Happy weekend!


Hugo's Spicy Walnut and Almond Snack

12 cups bran flakes cereal (or use whole grain Chex type cereal)
2 cups walnuts
1/2 cup almonds
1/2 cup organic honey
4 TB water
2 egg whites
1/4 cup chili powder
3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
salt and white pepper to taste


1. Preheat oven to 325 F.

2. In a large bowl, combine brain flakes, walnuts and almonds. In medium bowl, place egg whites, honey, water, chili powder, cilantro, salt, and white pepper. Whisk egg mixture until thoroughly combined.

3. Pour contents of medium bowl over walnut almond and brans flakes. Gently toss mixture until generously coated.

4. Transfer mixture to large baking pan and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, stirring twice during bake time.

5. Allow mixture to cool. Store at room temperature in airtight container.

ACCEPTING WHERE YOU ARE

"For after all, the best thing one can do when it's raining is to let it rain."- Henry Wadworth Longfellow


I love this Longfellow quote and feel its is all about accepting yourself exactly as you are in this present moment. I think one of the most liberating things that one can to is radically accept oneself exactly where they are at this moment in time. So maybe you are 20 pounds overweight or in a relationship that is less than perfect . How does it feel to love yourself exactly as you are without trying to change anything or acheive something ? Accepting yourself does not mean that you are settling for less. It simply means opening up to what the present moment has to teach you.

As I write this post, I still feel feel overwhelmed by an overflowing inbox, a two year old covered in inexplicable hives AGAIN, and a father afflicted with brain cancer who is grossly impaired. A huge part of me is waiting for something to shift, something to be dramatically different. But another part of me is simply, witnessing all that I experience , kicking back and enjoying the ride. However, instead of pushing uncomfortable feelings away, today I will let the rain fall and trust that sometime soon the sun will shine again.

FOR CLOSENESS... TRAVEL courtesy of Steve Goodier

Hi! Thanks so much for all of your messages of love and support. We are very busy caregiving over here and appreciate your emails very much. I love this story by Steve Goodier www.lifesupportsystem.com and hope you do, too.

For Closeness T-R-A-V-E-L
Inmate Mitchell King had a visitor - his wife. King was serving a six-year jail term in Auckland, New Zealand for armed robbery. But his wife didn't want to be away from him for that long. So they held hands. And they stuck. She'd rubbed her palms with Super Glue.Their new-found closeness was short-lived. And their separation painful. Her technique is not one I'd recommend for a closer relationship.But if you want more closeness; if you desire relationships that are deeper and broader, more meaningful and longer-lasting, then remember the word "travel."T is for TRUST. Trust is the glue that holds people together (not Super Glue). A relationship will go nowhere without it.R is for RESPECT. "Do not save your loving speeches for your friends till they are dead; do not write them on their tombstones, speak them rather now instead," writes Anna Cummins. It's about respecting others and letting them know that you value them.A is for AFFECTION. Sometimes affection means love. Sometimes it means a touch. Always it means kindness.V is for VULNERABILITY. Though we may feel afraid to let another too close, no relationship will go anywhere without risking vulnerability. Entrepreneur Jim Rohn says, "The walls we build around us to keep out the sadness also keep out the joy." And the love.E is for EMOTIONAL INTIMACY. Learn to be open. Learn to communicate freely. What kinds of relationships you make are largely determined by how openly you have learned to communicate.L is for LAUGHTER. Victor Borge got it right when he said, "Laughter is the shortest distance between two people." It's also the most enjoyable.For relationships that can really go somewhere, just remember the word "travel." Then enjoy the trip!

WHAT IS THE SONG IN YOUR HEART

" A friend knows the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memory fails.”
Donna Roberts

My dad is home, and as most of your know, he is courageously living with brain cancer. Since his most recent surgery , He has been experiencing significant problems with memory and word finding. He can no longer remember my phone number, how old my daughter is or the names of some of his oldest friends. My dad also did not remember that my husband and I wrote a book together. On a daily basis, I am reminded of what is truly important in this life. Love. Relationships. The precious time we have with loved ones. What is most important in your life and who will remind you of it when your memory fails?

INNER PEACE DOES NOT ALWAYS MEAN SMOOTH SAILING

I am sorry I have not been posting a lot lately. We have got a whole lot going on here. Our daughter was just in the emergency room on Tuesday as she broke out in the most HORRENDOUS hives and had trouble breathing. We still have no idea what she is allergic to so I am toting around an epinephrine pen , hoping for the best but prepared for another emergency situation. My dad is having brain surgery on Monday and every time I look at him I just want to cry. Hugo and I just got done editing our final book draft. We thought the whole manuscript was 100% perfect and celebrated our hard work. Then dear friend pointed out some errors on yoga poses I wrote! Hugo and I are accustomed to relatively peaceful and drama-free lives and this recent cascade of events has us wanting to rename our book and this blog " The Inner Insanity Diet". On a positive note, here is an uplifting story , courtesy of Steve Goodier www.lifesupportsystem.com





The List
Do you have anything to be thankful for? In his classic novel Robinson Crusoe, author Daniel Defoe has shipwrecked Crusoe take inventory of his life. He makes two lists. One is a list of his problems. The other is an inventory of that for which he can give thanks. A problem he writes is that he has no clothing. On his corresponding list he writes that the weather is warm and he really has little need for clothing. Another problem is that all of his provisions were lost at sea. But on the other list he writes that he has fresh fruit and water and can provide for himself. And so it goes. He lists his problems and likewise lists all that he has going for him. He is surprised at the size of the list of his assets. How long would your list be if you took inventory of your blessings - all of that for which you can give thanks? For family. For friends. For faith. For health and the necessities of life. Did you know that some one million people will die this week...how is your health? Those who have food, clothing and shelter have more than much of our world's population will ever possess. Do you have these necessities of living?How long would your list be if you took inventory of your blessings...and added one new item daily? Would you be amazed at the size of the list?You have 1,440 minutes in every day. How would your life be different if you spent just 15 of those minutes daily giving thanks? Just 15 minutes filling your mind with concrete examples of how fortunate you are? Most of us would discover even after a few days that the exercise was life changing!Poet Courtland Sayers put it this way: "Five thousand breathless dawns all new; One million flowers fresh in dew. Five thousand sunsets wrapped in gold; One million snowflakes served ice cold. Five quiet friends, one baby's love; One white sea of clouds above. One June night in a fragrant wood; One heart that loved and understood. I wondered when I waked that day - In God's name - how could I ever pay?"Christian mystic Meister Eckhart said, "If the only prayer you say in your whole life is 'thank you,' that would suffice." I suspect he is right.

THERE ARE NO COINCIDENCES

Hugo and I have been celebrating with heavy hearts and good intentions this weekend. It is my mom's birthday and we had a small party for her at our house yesterday. On Friday night, we went to Harry's Seafood on the Wilmington Waterfront for a delicious dinner. http://www.harrys-savoy.com/seafood_aboutus.asp. We loved sitting together on the patio and watching as the boats coasted along the canal. Our conversation drifted to old friends, as my dad casually asked if I had spoken to my old friend Paula lately. Literally five minutes later Paula serendipitously stepped into the restaurant and joined our table for some conversation and cocktails. Is this just a random co-incidence? I don't think so. I believe that all the random events of our lives have a hidden purpose and distinct meaning. If we follow our intuitive hunches and pay close attention to these co-incidences I firmly believe they can lead us to a healthier and fulfilling life. What co-incidenced are you experiencing today? What can you learn from them?

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

Fear is only as deep as the mind allows.-- Japanese Proverb.


Nothing in the affairs of men is worthy of great anxiety.-- Plato.

I am feeling fearful today. My dad's surgery is almost upon us and we are having lots of important yet difficult discussions around here. We recently reviewed the bound galleys for The Inner Peace Diet and found some pretty egregious errors (like we left of the chestnuts in our Red Cabbage, Apple and Chestnuts Salad). Who forgets stuff like that? We are practicing feeling our feelings and total acceptance today. How is your day going?

LIVING IN THE MOMENT

" Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment." Buddha

"You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment." Henry David Thoreau

Living in the moment is one of the quickest routes to inner peace. If you find yourself struggling with negative emotion in any way, you will likely find that you are resisting the present situation. It is very easy to revisit the past or worry endlessly about the future. Our minds are conditioned for this type of thinking, which often results in tremendous discomfort. The good news is , is that it's fairly easy to live in the present moment. I find that the simplest way to become grounded in the present is to pay attention to my breathing. Yesterday, while chatting with my dad's neurosurgeon, I did a quick body scan and realized I was holding my breath. Taking shallow breaths is one way to avoid the present moment and avoid unpleasant feelings. By becoming more conscious of my breath I was able to deal with an unsettling situation with a clear and focused mind. What are you doing right now? Are you open to this moment or are you resisting it is some way?

SOME WORDS OF WISDOM FROM DR. MOLLY ROBERTS, MD, MS

I am thrilled and honored that Dr. Molly Roberts, MD, MS and Dr. Bruce Roberts, MD offered to be guests on The Inner Peace Diet blog today. Dr. Molly Roberts is a holistic physician, the Co-Director of LightHearted Medicine (http://www.lightheartedmedicine.com/) and a physician at Canyon Ranch Health Resort in Tucson. She is triply Board Certified in Family Medicine, Holistic Medicine and Nutrition. Dr. Roberts is also a psychotherapist and an ordained Shamanic Minister. She has written two books, one on Complementary and Alternative Medicine and the other on Nutrition. Her specialty is Mind/Body/Spirit Medicine. Her husband, Bruce Roberts, MD is triply Board Certified in Family Medicine, Psychiatry and Holistic Medicine and is also an ordained Shamanic Minister. He does a lot of Nutritional Medicine work as well, particularly related to mental health issues. He is a Co-Director at LightHearted Medicine and is also a physician at Canyon Ranch.

I asked Dr. Roberts the following three questions and received three very informative. powerful answers.

What advice do you offer patients who are beginning their journey to weight loss?

My first suggestion to anyone starting on a weight loss regimen is to take some time to smile at themselves in the mirror. This sounds like a simple thing, but it's actually fairly difficult for those who have diligently avoided looking at themselves in the mirror for several years. It's very hard to lose weight if you are doing it as a punishment for "bad behavior" in the past. It is much easier to lose weight when you are doing it as a way to show love to yourself and to honor your body, and looking in the mirror is the first step to changing this mindset. At first, the person looking in the mirror will hear all those little "demon voices" that we all have in our heads, telling them how horrible they look, how they aren't worth it, how large their thighs are, etc. It is important to make those voices conscious so that their iron control can be loosened. Smiling at this point will feel forced and fake, but I tell them to do it anyway. The person is instructed to keep on looking at themselves, to look in their own eyes, and to keep smiling at themselves. If they do this diligently, every time they pass a mirror, the smile will start to win out over the voices, and a new voice will start to take hold. The new voice will be saying, "Actually, I'm OK! No matter what my weight is, no matter what else is going on for me, whether or not I ever get thin thighs, I'm OK!" There is literally a reorganization of the brain's chemistry at this point, and the person will feel more self-acceptance and hope. Once this shift happens, I see a shift in the person's reason for losing weight as well. They will start to say, "If I do this weight loss thing, I'm going to do it just for me and my own health." It is then that the weight loss plan has the best chance of succeeding. I have suggested this not only for weight loss but for depression and anxiety as well for the last 25 years or so with great results. Just last year, I was pleased to see a research study indicating that smiling in the mirror was more effective than an antidepressant for treating depressive symptoms. Not bad!

What is the best way to tap into your body's innate healing power?

The best way is whatever fits for the person, and the key is to find the method that best helps you to hear your own inner wisdom speaking to you. For years, my husband and I have run Mind/Body Skills Groups, teaching people multiple methods for tapping into their own intuition about what they need for healing. What we love about these groups is that it really is a matter of "different strokes for different folks." The idea is not that you will walk away from this group doing all the many techniques you learned. Instead, the goal is for each person to find those one or two methods that really "ring their chimes," that most resonate with them and help them to hear their own wisdom. When you discover your unique power to tap in, your healing potential comes to the forefront, and it is a wonder to behold!

What are the most important factors in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and spiritual health?

This is a particularly large question, one that I could write a book about (and I am!). If I were to choose one thing, though, I would say that it is important to continually ask the question, "Am I treating my body and myself with reverance?" That concept of reverance takes the concept of a healthy lifestyle out of the realm of the material (such as calorie-counting or getting exactly twenty minutes a day of meditating) and takes it into a recognition that our bodies are the repository of our souls and should be honored and respected as such. When you are treating yourself with reverance, then every act, every thought is spiritual, and you end up living every moment of your life in a much more meaningful way

.

Take some time today to check our Drs. Roberts awesome website. It is chock full of inspiring and educational infomation.

http://www.lightheartedmedicine.com/) and (www.LightHeartedMedicine.com/products.html).

Thanks, Drs. Roberts!

TAKING RISKS ON YOUR ROAD TO INNER PEACE

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I . . . I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference."
— Robert Frost"

The dangers of life are infinite, and among them is safety."
— Goethe"

"Do you want to be safe and good, or do you want to take a chance and be great?"

— Jimmy Johnson Dallas Cowboys Coach

Writing the book The Inner Peace Diet was a huge risk for us. Will people like our book? Will they actually buy it? Sharing some long held secret restaurant recipes was especially difficult for Chef Hugo. You can live your entire life following the path of least resistance. A life full of minimal risk, little unknowns, and no discomfort offers us an illusion of great safety. By following the herd and conforming to societal standards we often are rewarded with great praise. By following our heart's desires and dreams we are often met with massive criticism. However, most people often find inner peace in precisely this way. What risk would you take right now if you had the nerve?

RELAXING

“Sometimes it's important to work for that pot of gold. But other times it's essential to take time off and to make sure that your most important decision in the day simply consists of choosing which color to slide down on the rainbow.”“ Douglas Pagels

It's so important to learn how to relax and just hang out in today's fast paced world. Hugo and I just got home from a relaxing dinner date. It's not always easy to carve out time in our busy schedules for relaxation, but we feel it is crucial. Tonight we went to the Blue Parrot, a swanky little grill in Wilmington, Delaware that features traditional New Orleans cuisine and music. If you are ever in the Wilmington area, we highly recommend this restaurant. Check out their menu online for a l little inspiration or a taste of the Delta.

http://www.blueparrotgrille.com/

FAITH AND TRUST ON YOUR PATH TO INNER PEACE

Doubt is a pain too lonely to know that faith is his twin brother. ~Kahlil Gibran

Fear knocked at the door. Faith answered. And lo, no one was there. ~Author Unknown


These quotes give me great comfort today. We've talked to a few of the world's finest neurosurgeons and it looks as if my beloved father will be having surgery to remove part of his brain tumor sometime in the near future. A part of me is scared and doubtful, but a larger part of me has complete faith and trusts that everything is unfolding in perfect order. During times of darkness and uncertainty, I remind myself and others about all of the wonderful things that exist that we cannot see with our eyes. For example, I cannot see the electricity flowing through my home, but I faithfully pay my utility bills each month. Even though I can't see the radio waves, I trust that when I push a certain button in in my car, the music will start. What helps you to have faith and trust in the universe?

Speaking of comfort, here is one of Chef Hugo's healthier comfort food alternatives for you.

Super Skinny Sweet Potato Pie

1 1/4 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/3 cup skim milk
2 tablespoons canola oil
1/4 cup organic honey
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

dash allspice
3 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup evaporated skim milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups sweet potato, cooked, skin removed and mashed


1. In medium bowl, combine flour and 1/2 teaspoon of sugar. Gradually add skim milk and oil to mixture.

2. Stir until well blended. Form pastry into smooth ball.

3. Roll pastry roll between 2 12 inch squares of waxed paper using short quick strokes until pastry is completely flattened over wax paper.

4. Peel off top layer of wax paper and invert crust into pie plate. Preheat oven to 350F.

5. To make filling:

6. Combine honey and dark brown sugar in large bowl.

7. Gradually add evaporated skim milk, eggs, nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice and vanilla. Stir well.

8. Add sweet potatoes. Thoroughly combine.

9. Pour mixture into pie shell.

10. Bake pie for 55 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Serve.


Yield: 16 servings

Per Serving : 118 Calories; 3g Fat (21.7%calories from fat); 3g Protein; 20g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 40mg Cholesterol; 92mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 1/2 Fat; 1/2 Other Carbohydrates

SOME GIFTS FOR YOUR FROM JENNIFER MELNICK CAROTA, THE GIFT THERAPIST

I am thrilled to have Jennifer Melnick Carota, MS, LPC as a guest this evening on our blog. Jennifer is a licensed professional counselor and sought after motivational speaker. She is known as the Rachel Ray of shopping in many circles. She has great energy and is clearly going places!

This week, I interviewed Jennifer and she gave me the following responses. This is wonderful expert advice. Thanks for the gift of your wisdom, Jennifer!

How can giving to others give a person an increased sense of inner peace and contentment?

I have always considered giving as a natural expression of our love for one another. When we give freely without an expectation of return we free ourselves to give more abundantly and joyfully. What brings me inner peace is focusing on the “intent” in which I “choose” to give. As long as I am giving out of love rather than a sense of obligation I find myself more generous, thoughtful and full of life

What are you favorite gifts to offer to loved ones and why? I would like to consider myself as both a thoughtful and sentimental gift giver, therefore, I try to customize or personalize gifts as much as possible. I love to give gifts that bring back memories of happy times, funny moments, or emotional milestones in our relationships with one another. For example, my husband is a huge Batman fanatic and on our first date we went to the drive in to see “Batman Returns.” On our first year anniversary I bought him an authentically autographed and framed “Batman Returns” movie poster…He loved it! But I must add that I also wrote a sentimental note in the card just in case he didn’t make the connection.

As a licensed mental health counselor, what tips would you offer for managing stress and living a healthier lifestyle? Thank you for asking this question! As a therapist and mentor I have worked with many young girls who struggle with significant stress and anxiety in their adolescent lives. I feel it is necessary for us as mentors and role models to lead by example and make our joy and peace contagious! How do I do this? One of my favorite ways to start and end the day is with gratitude. I encourage everyone to keep a “Joy Journal” daily. Start and end the day by briefly listing the big and small things that you are grateful for. Do your favorite jeans fit comfortably? Write it down! Send that positive energy out into the universe! Do this for at least thirty days and I promise you will find yourself living a more calm, peaceful and healthful lifestyle…and a magnet for great Karma!

Do you have a favorite healthy recipe to share?

One of my favorite no-guild summer desserts:

Stuffed Angel Food Surprise

Ingredients:·

1 Pre-made angel food cake·

½ cup of shredded coconut (toasted or untoasted) or sliced almonds·

1 pint strawberries – sliced·

2 medium bananas-sliced in rounds·

1 can unsweetened crushed pineapple- drained·

1 container Light Cool Whip (thawed)

Cut angel food cake horizontally into two layers. With a medium spatula, spread the bottom layer of the sliced cake with thawed cool whip. Arrange sliced fruits alternately on top of the cool whip. Sprinkle with coconut or slice almonds. Add another layer of cool whip and put top layer back onto the cake. Press down gently. Chill or freeze until firm. Drizzle with powdered sugar, reserved pineapple juice or honey if desired before serving. Store any leftovers in refrigerator or freezer. Enjoy! *Be creative and substitute fresh fruits of your choice, i.e. fresh peaches, kiwi, mango, or mandarin oranges!

Please visit Jennifer’s website for more free tips, tricks, and strategies guaranteed to make your gift giving easier and fun this year http://www.thegifttherapist.com/. Want to give the gift of giving? Purchase Jennifer’s Book “Shop Smart GIVE MORE” by visiting her store at www.thegifttherapist.com/store.html.

LETTING GO OF PERFECTIONISM ON YOUR PATH TO INNER PEACE

Use what talents you possess; the woods would be very silent if no birds sang except those that sang best. ~Henry van Dyke

When you aim for perfection, you discover it's a moving target. ~George Fisher

These quotes really speak to me today."It's perfect!" My two year old daughter exclaimed today after studying a drawing she created in art class. A part of me delighted in her present-centered joy and self -esteem. Another part of me cringed as I wondered if she knows the meaning of the word "perfect" at such a tender age. For many of us , perfectionism is a tool we use to postpone our dreams and procrastinate. Many people I talk to are waiting for those "perfect" conditions to start a diet, find a mate or change careers. Time and experience have taught me that conditions are rarely perfect for beginning any endeavor. As a working mom, I have no desire or time for the old perfectionism that I used to embrace. Sometimes I overcook dinner, don chipped nail polish or leave the house with my hair disheveled. My new goal is to see the perfection in every day, instead of trying to make every day perfect.

How do you define perfect?

THOUGHTS ON CHANGE AND A RECIPE FOR PINK PRINCESS SLAW

"Change always comes bearing gifts. "~Price Pritchett

"The only difference between a rut and a grave is their dimensions." Ellen Glasgow

I love these two quotes about the concept of change. The following statement has been said a million times before in various ways but I will say it again. Change is inevitable. It is a healthy part of life that helps us grow and expand.

We are enduring some tiny yet dramatic changes in our house today. Our two year old daughter has simultaneously given up her nap and her voracious appetite for vegetables. Friends and family have told us these things would happen eventually. On a scale of life's major events, these milestones are small and innocuous . However, they remind us of how important it is to be flexible and open minded to the changing tides, no matter how big the waves. Here is a delicious recipe for Pink Princess Slaw. It is a delicious side dish sure to be devoured by princesses (and princes ) everywhere, even though it is comprised mainly of cabbage!

Pink Princess Slaw (Magic Wand Optional)

Serves about 5

2 tablespoons fat free sour cream

2 tablespoons lowfat buttermilk

2 tablespoons fat free mayonnaise

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon cider vinegar

1 tablespoon organic honey

dash sea salt

2 tablespoons scallion -- minced

5 cups red cabbage, shredded

In a large bowl. combine sour cream, buttermilk, mayo,Dijon,vinegar,honey, sea salt and scallions. Mix well.

Add red cabbage to bowl. Toss well. Cover and refrigerate for three hours or overnight. Serve to your royal subjects with pride.

Per Serving : 70 Calories; 3g Fat (36.2% caloriesfrom fat); 2g Protein; 11g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 1mgCholesterol; 50mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 0 Non-FatMilk; 1/2 Fat; 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.

BLUEBERRY QUESADILLA RECIPE YUM!

Blueberries are considered one of the super foods. A fruit that is rich in anti-oxidants, blueberries are thought to help prevent cancer and ward off premature aging.

Here is a delicious Blueberry Quesadilla recipe for you. This is a healthy dessert or can also be paired with some protein for breakfast. Our two year old daughter loves these and would eat them for breakfast. lunch and dinner if she could. Enjoy!

Blueberry Quesadillas

Serves 2

¼ cup Nuefatchel or nonfat cream cheese, softened or whipped
1 tablespoon organic honey
2 whole wheat tortillas
¼ cup blueberries

In small bowl, beat together cream cheese and honey. Carefully spread ½ cream cheese mixture on each tortilla. Place blueberries on top of cream cheese. Fold tortilla in half. If desired, lightly toast for five minutes or place in microwave for 30 seconds. It is also delicious if served cold. Cut in half or fourths and serve.

If you don’t have blueberries lying around try adding strawberries or bananas to your quesadilla instead. Yum!

CAN I BE AMBITIOUS AND STILL HAVE INNER PEACE?

Recently, I had the privilege of being a guest blogger on an awesome website and blog http://www.mamaneedsabookcontract.com/. If you are a mama and/or write professionally or for pleasure you will love this site.

Here is my post.

I just HAD to post this tonight. Tonight we have a guest post from Aileen McCabe-Maucher (plus more letters! RN, MSW, LCSW). She is a a licensed psychotherapist, registered nurse and author of the forthcoming book, The Inner Peace Diet that will be published by Penguin in December 2008. And, she's a mom to a two-year-old girl.When I read Aileen's bio, I had one huge question:"How can I be ambitious AND have inner peace? I’m an ambitious person by nature… but I want to find that peace. How can I do it?"

Here's what she had to say:

When I think of maintaining both a sense of inner peace and personal ambition the following quote by Lao Tzu comes to mind "By doing nothing one could accomplish everything.'"
As a busy mom, writer and psychotherapist, I rarely have time to "do nothing." As I type this entry after midnight, I have two loads of laundry in progress, a feverish child in my bed, and a desk piled high with work. A part of me thrives on burning the candle at both ends and having multiple projects in the works. However, a larger part of me, simply just wants to be relaxed and enjoy exactly where I am in this moment. For me, inner peace is simply about being in the present and knowing that everything will be okay, regardless of how crazy it seems now. Meditation is a great way to infuse your day with inner peace. I try to set aside ten minutes each morning to simply sit and breathe. During meditation, I slowly breathe in and out through my nostrils and gently let go of any thoughts or worries. I allow everything to be as it is. Having thoughts occur during meditation is as natural as breathing. I welcome the thoughts and then quietly let them go as I surrender to silence. At first, I found meditation challenging. I ,too, am ambitious. It was hard for me to sit still and I was eager to get started with the next item on my list. However, after a lot of practice meditation is now my favorite part of the day.
Paradoxically, I find that after this ten minutes of "doing nothing" but meditating, I am most productive. Some of my best ideas and freshest writing come to me after meditation. In a sense, meditation fuels my ambition yet also sustains my sense of inner peace.

That really spoke to me. I am a pretty driven person. I'm a check-it-off-move-to-the-next-thing type of gal. But lately I've been thinking about how to find a peacefulness inside. A small part of my brain wonders what other women do who are stay-at-home-moms... and who don't drive themselves batty trying to write until midnight each night, get workouts in every day, work a full time job ... and expect that they won't lose their temper or snap at their kids.Surely they have some kind of peace. I'm considering taking a few weeks off from any writing whatsoever, maybe even a computer break for two WEEKS this summer, after my book deadline of course. But maybe I can work a little harder at getting that "everyday peace" that Aileen is talking about.Thank you Aileen!

Labels: Guest Authors, Heather

FINDING PEACE WITHIN YOURSELF

When you find peace within yourself, you become the kind of person who can live at peace with others.” Peace Pilgrim

I love this quote by Peace Pilgrim. Self love and acceptance are the building blocks to inner peace. Pay attention to the running dialogue in your head this weekend. Are you speaking kindly to yourself? Would you dare speak to a loved one or a stranger the way you talk to yourself? Are the thoughts you think consistent with the words you speak? When stressful or negative thoughts enter your mind, try letting them go and replacing them with thoughts that make you feel happy and peaceful.

For more information about Peace Pilgrim and The Intergenerational Walk for Peace please visit http://mysite.verizon.net/vze76gvv/peacepilgrim100/id1.html

A HEALTHY AND DELICIOUS RECIPE TO SHARE WITH FRIENDS!

Happy Friday! Did you know that having strong social ties is linked with better health and wellness. Research shows that people who have intact support system live happier, healthier lifestyles. With that in mind, Hugo and I would like to share our favorite crab dip recipe with you. This dip is best when shared with friends and a nice way to keep entertaining simple. It's a healthy version of what Hugo used to serve at Hugo's Inn. It's a real crowd pleaser.

So go ahead and invite some friends over this weekend. Don't wait until you replace the carpet or clean the upholstery. True friends don't care about that stuff. Life is too short. Be in the moment and live for today!

Hugo's Healthy Crab Dip

Serves 8

8 ounces of fat free cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons of skim milk or soy milk

1 cup pasteurized jumbo lump crab meat (or use imitation krab)

2 tablespoons finely chopped scallions

2 teaspoons cream style horseradish

salt and pepper to taste

1 cup finely chopped walnuts

1. In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese and milk. Gradually add crab, scallions, horseradish, and 1/2 cup walnuts.

2. Salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and place dip in baking dish.

Sprinkle 1/2 cup walnuts on top of dip.

3. Bake for 20 minutes or until crab dip is hearted through. Serve immediately with veggies strips and whole wheat crackers.

Enjoy!

CHERYL FORBERG FROM NBC'S THE BIGGEST LOSER OFFERS WORDS OF WISDOM TO INNER PEACE DIET READERS

I am honored that Cheryl Forberg, RD, a registered dietitian and professional chef on NBC 's hit show The Biggest Loser wanted to be a guest here on our blog today. Cheryl is also an extremely talented author who has penned numerous books on nutrition and healthy cooking. Her latest book, Positively Ageless, is a must-read.

I asked Cheryl the following questions and she gave us some great expert advice.

How do you help participants in the NBC's Biggest Loser TV achieve and maintain their weight loss?

As the Nutritionist for the show, I meet with each contestant individually when they arrive in LA at the beginning of the season. I give them an overview of the BL eating plan as well as instructions on food journaling. Throughout the season, each contestant sends me their food journals every single day. I analyze them, provide feedback as needed and share my results with the trainers and the Medical Expert team.We are trying to implement a program to follow the contestants after the show to help them maintain their loss and their success

What are the biggest obstacles to keeping the weight off?

This varies greatly but many times it's the hectic pace of everyday life. We are all so busy, and sometimes tired. It's a challenge to make time to include exercise in our daily routines but it's a mandatory part of a successful weight loss and for optimal health. The other challenge with a busy schedule is making time to plan ahead for shopping, food preparation, regular meal times and snacks. All of this is often times boils down to reprioritizing. I usually find that the contestants have had a long pattern of prioritizing their spouses/partners/children/job and/or school over their own health and well-being. It's time to put their health first or they may not be able to take care of anyone/anything else.

What are the most important factors in maintaining a healthy lifestyle?

I wrote about this in Positively Ageless. We are empowered to achieve a very healthy lifestyle by making some really small changes in our everyday decisions. embracing an exercise routine; finding activities that we enjoy and will look forward to doing, including - cardio and weight resistance to promote strong bones and muscles and keep our metabolism revved choosing the right foods; focusing on the quality of our calories as much as the quantity of them; nothing artificial or processed getting plenty of rest minimizing stress drinking lots of water having fun

I highly recommend Cheryl latest book Positively Ageless, which is available on amazon.com. Get your copy here http://www.amazon.com/Positively-Ageless-28-Day-Younger-Slimmer/dp/1594866163/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1213923213&sr=8-1

Thanks, Cheryl!

IS IT SAFE TO EAT TOMATOES NOW?

Are tomatoes safe to eat now? Chef Hugo has been hearing this question alot lately and has been working with several sources to get the most accurate answers. The recent salmonella outbreak linked to tomatoes has many consumers and health officials concerned. Chef Hugo states that there are 3 ways to avoid the salmonella outbreak.

1. Avoid tomatoes altogether.

2. Eat only home grown tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes or tomatoes attached to the vine, which have not been linked to this outbreak.

3. Ask the management at your local grocery store or restaurant where they purchased their tomatoes and if they are deemed safe by health officials.

Keep in mind that you should always thoroughly wash and scrub all of your produce to keep yourself and your family safe in every season.

Here's a delicious salsa salad recipe Chef Hugo created. It does contain tomatoes but you can substitute with red pepper if you are leery of the tomatoes available in your area. It's a delicious and healthy summer salad! Enjoy!

Hugo's Salsa Salad Solace

8 ounces whole kernel corn
1/4 cup cucumber, chopped
1/2 cup tomato, seeded and chopped
1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
1/2 teaspoon jalapeno chili pepper, seeded and minced
2 teaspoons lime juice
1/2 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 tablespoon fresh cilantro, minced

1. In large bowl, combine corn, cucumber, tomatoes, green onions and jalapeno.

2. In small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin and cilantro/

3. Pour lime juice mixture over corn mixture. Toss well. Cover and chill for at least three hours. Serve.

Yield: 2 servings

Per Serving : 124 Calories; 2g Fat (13.8%calories from fat); 4g Protein; 27g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 0mgCholesterol; 9mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 1/2 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 1/2Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 0 Fat.

LUSCIOUS LEMON FISH RECIPE

Eating seafood is a simple way that most of us can help improve our diets as well as our overall health. Many types of fish are rich in omega 3 fatty acid which is linked with many health benefits. Most of the studies about beneficial omega-3 fatty acids focus on fish as the primary source. The American Heart Association, The American Dietetic Association and many doctors recommend that you eat fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids twice a week in order to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle. Fish high in omega three fatty acids include salmon, albacore tuna, sardines, halibut, herring and trout. Scientific research suggests that eating foods rich in omega three fatty acids can reduce your risk of coronary disease and chances of sudden death related to a heart attack.

Many people I talk to don't eat fish simply because they are unsure how to prepare it. Here is a simple and delicious fish recipe by Chef Hugo that is sure to delight your whole family.

Luscious Lemon Fish
Serves 4

2 large red bell peppers, seeeded and sliced

1 large lemon, seeded and sliced
2 large Vidalia onion, sliced
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
dash sea salt
2 cod fillets or salmon fillets
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh tarragon
3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Spray baking dish with vegetable oil cooking spray

3. Arrange the sliced lemons and sliced onions on bottom on baking dish.

4. Layer sliced red bell peppers on top of onions. Sprinkle tarragon over the tomatoes.

5. In small bowl, mix the turmeric, paprika, curry, cinnamon, and sea salt. Rub spice mixture on both sides of cod fillets.

6. Place seasoned cod fillets in baking dish on top of onions, tomatoes and tarragon.

7. Drizzle lemon juice on top of fish.

8. Bake the dish for 35 minutes or until fish is opaque in the center and thoroughly cooked.




Per Serving : 224 Calories; 11g Fat (45.0%calories from fat); 22g Protein; 9g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 50mg Cholesterol; 305mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 3 Lean Meat; 1 ½ Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 2 Fat.

A RESOURCE GUIDE FOR YOU

Each day, I get lots of requests to help people with various social and medical problems. Here is a resource guide that I compiled for our readers in the hope it would help you on your path to wellness. Currently, I am not available to practice traditional psychotherapy or provide social services via the Internet. However, it is my intention to point you in the direction of the help you are seeking. If you are reading this post and are currently experiencing a life threatening psychiatric or medical emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If you are experiencing a non-emergent psychiatric or medical problem, your family doctor or health care provider is a great person to ask for help. Here is list of resources that may be able to help you on your journey to overcome your struggles and live a peaceful and healthy life. If you find any non-working or wrong numbers here, please let me know so I can correct them.

ADOPTION: National Adoption Center 800-862-3678

AGING: National Council on Aging 800-424-9046

AIDS: Clinical Trial Information Services 800-TRIALS-A

ALCOHOL: Alcohol Hotline 800-252-6465

ALZHEIMERS: Alzheimer's Helpline 800-228-8738

ALZHEIMERS: Alzheimer's Hotline 800-621-0379

AUTISM: Autism Society of America 800-3AUTISM

BRAIN: National Brain Tumor Foundation 800-934-CURE CANCER:

American Cancer Society 800-ACS-2345

CANCER: National Breast Cancer Organization 800-221-2141

CHILDREN: Child Find of America 800-426-5678

DEPRESSION: Depression Hotline 800-551-0008

DIABETES: American Diabetes Association 800-232-3472

DIABETES: International Juvenile Diabetes Foundation 800-223-1138

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: National hotline 1-800-799-7233

DRUGS ABUSE: Just Say No 800-258-2766

DYSLEXIA: Orton Dyslexia Society 800-ABCD-123

EPILEPSY: Epilepsy Foundation of America 800-EFA-1000

FAMILIES: Parents Helpline 800-345-5044

FIBROMYALGIA: Fibromyalgia Network 800-853-2929

GAMBLING: National Council on Problem Gambling 800-522-4700

GRIEF: Grief Recovery Hotline 800-445-4808

HEADACHES: National Headache Foundation 800-843-2256

HEART: American Heart Association 800-242-8721

HEPATITIS: Hepatitis Foundation International 800-891-0707

HUNTINGTON’S DISEASE: Huntington's Disease Foundation 800-345-4372

IMMUNE DEFICIENCIES: Immune Deficiency foundation 800-296-4433

LYMES DISEASE: Lymes Disease Foundation 800-886-5963

MEDICARE: Medicare Hotline 800-medicare

MISING AND EXPOITED CHILDREN: 1-800-THE-LOST

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS: National Center for Multiple Sclerosis Society 800-344-4867

PREGNANCY: Maternity care 800-592-4357

RAPE: Rape/Sex Abuse Hotline 800-551-0008

SAFETY: Workplace safety and health 800-321-OSHA

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE: National Sexually Transmitted Disease Hotline 800-227-8922

SOCIAL SECURITY: Social Security Administration 800-772-1213

SPINAL CORD: National Spinal Cord Injury Association 800-962-9629

SUICIDE: National 24/7 hotline 1-800-SUICIDE

STUTTERING: National Center for Stuttering 800-221-2483

DECISIONS, DECISIONS, DECISIONS

"It's in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped." Anthony Robbins

It seems like everyone I encounter today is facing major decisions. My dad's brain tumor is growing and he needs to make a choice on how he wishes to proceed. A client can't decide if she wants to put a prestigious career on hold to stay at home and raise children full time. Decisions can be anxiety producing and paralyzing when they are approached with fear. However, decisions can also be an empowering gateway to your true self.

Many people are seeking my input and advice regarding important decisions lately. I wish I had all the answers for you. I truly believe that we are all our own gurus and that the answers to our most burning questions lie within us. We just need to get quiet and open enough to listen to our own inner wisdom. Of course this is easy for me to say, because I am not facing a major decision in this moment. Whatever decision you make today, I encourage you to stay open, keep breathing and keep moving with the flow of life. Trust that you will be provided with exactly what you need on your journey. And please remember ask for help when you need it.

A happy and peaceful life is created one decision at a time. You can choose to watch tv or go out for a walk. To order a hamburger or a salad.

What decisions are you making today?

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY AND ANOTHER STRAWBERRY RECIPE FOR YOU

Happy Father's Day to you! I am so grateful that my dad is here with me on Father's Day. And I am incredibly grateful that Hugo is such a great dad to our two year old daughter. Mere words can't express the appreciation I have for these two men. We had a fun morning eating pancakes and opening gifts. Here is a delicious strawberry pancake recipe for you to enjoy. Yes, as you can tell, it is still strawberry season here in Delaware and our fridge is still overflowing with berries.

Whole Wheat Strawberry Pancakes

Serves 6

1 cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup skim milk or soymilk (try carob or choclate flavored soymilk if you are feeling adventerous)
1/2 cup strawberries, hulled and diced

1. Mix whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda together in a large bowl.

2. Gradually stir on milk and strawberries.

3. Spoon 1/2 cup batter into non-stick griddle for two minutes or until pnackes is bubbly and golden. Flip pancake and cook for additional minute or until done. Serve warm with additional strawberries as garnish.

Per Serving : 94 Calories; 1g Fat (7.5% calories from fat); 3g Protein; 20g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 0mgCholesterol; 227mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 1/2Fruit; 0 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates.

CREATING A MORE PEACEFUL LIFE

"You have the power to create the naturally stress-free and tranquil life you desire: You can either activate thoughts that produce stress within you, or activate thoughts that make stress impossible. It’s your choice." Wayne Dyer

I love this quote by Wayne Dyer. Today I woke feeling antsy and running a to do list a mile long in my head. Luckily, I was able to catch myself in the act and take a few deep breaths to get centered. I believe we have the power to instantly transform our thoughts and manifest the life we desire one, thought form and feeling at a time.

What thoughts are you activating today?

AN ABUNDANCE OF STRAWBERRY RECIPES

I am in awe of the sheer amount of strawberries in our refrigerator right now. Talk about abundance! Here's a succulent strawberry soup recipe that Chef Hugo designed. This dish is a tasty appetizer that can also be served as a dessert. What fruits and vegetables are in season in your neck of the woods?

Hugo's Berry Soup

4 cups fresh strawberries
2 cups fresh raspberries
2 cups fresh blueberries
2 cups cranberry juice or cranberry-raspberry juice blend
1/3 cup sugar (optional)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cups plain or vanilla organic low fat yogurt

Place the strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and juice in a large blender and process until smooth. For best results, do this step in batches. When finished, strain the berry mixture through a sieve into a medium non reactive, stainless saucepan. Gently mix in the sugar and cinnamon. Bring mixture. to a boil over medium heat. Remove immediately and place in a large bowl; cover and chill overnight (or at least 3 hours) Stir in the yogurt. Serve.

If desired, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a dollop of organic yogurt. ENJOY!