Archive for » June, 2009 «

Reminder To Self–Relax


outdoors Reminder To Self  Relax

The time to relax is — when you don’t have time for it.

~Sidney J. Harris

Women are the original multi-taskers. It’s probably one thing we do better than men. We have many different roles, wear many different hats. We are spouses, daughters, mothers, friends, and sisters. We are lovers, co-workers, employees, and parishioners.Some would argue we are also housekeepers, short-order cooks, nannies, and babysitters too.

For all our roles and the hats we wear, we pull from one spring of energy. That energy must fuel all our tasks and duties. Unfortunately, sometimes the demand on our resources can be overwhelming. We fight with our natural desire to nuture and please. Instead of walking away when the spring has been tapped, we reach inside to somehow find more energy. We push ourselves beyond our limits. With more demands, the cycle deepens.
It’s at times like these that you must achieve balance with your primary role, your Self. When the demands come hot and furious, when the deadlines loom larger and larger, that is precisely the time you need to set back. Reassess your resources. Set boundaries for your time. Respect them and seek the respect of others for them.
It can be hard to say no. We naturally want to avoid unpleasantness. Telling someone that you cannot do something for them is not easy to do. It’s creating tension by trying to relieve tension. No is not a bad word.
Saying no is showing respect for yourself. You know your limits. You probably know too well the consequences of broaching them. However, turning inward to give yourself that precious time to relax and recharge is a gift. It’s a gift to yourself–and maybe your sanity too. It’s a gift to the other person. You have enough respect for them that you want to at your best to fulfill their needs and wants. You respect yourself enough to do what it takes to keep the spring flowing.
If you are questioning whether or not you could have done better, it’s time. If you are feeling guilty because you know it wasn’t your best effort, it’s time.It’s time to take back your time and use it for you. It’s time to relax.

Photo by axel-d

Category: Lifestyle  Tags: ,  Comments off

Weekly Recipe–Splash It On Quick Broccolini


broccolini Weekly Recipe  Splash It On Quick BroccoliniThis week’s weekly recipe focuses on healthy side dishes. I always try to include a vegetable with every dinner. I’m usually pretty generous too, so it turns out to be two servings. This is great for a healthy lifestyle.

If I had to choose, I’d pick broccolini over broccoli. The flavor is sweeter and more even, in my mind. Typically, I’ll steam my veggies instead of sauteing them to keep calories down. However, a bit of fat makes a meal satisfying, so using a bit of olive oil, I make it a healthier option. The recipe also features my new favorite condiment, Nakano’s Seasoned Rice Vinegar. Splash it on for added zip to a meal. I can use it in place of lemon juice for a condiment I can easily have on hand all the time. Bon appetit!

Quick and Easy Broccolini
1 bunch of broccolini, trimmed
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp butter
2 garlic cloves, sliced
1/4 cup water or low sodium chicken broth
Nakano Seasoned Rice Vinegar, to taste
Salt
Pepper

Heat butter and olive oil in a non-stick skillet. Add garlic. Saute until fragrant. Add trimmed broccolini and toss to coat. Salt and pepper broccolini. Add water or broth to skillet. Cover skillet and cook 7 minutes. Check broccolini after 5 minutes to prevent burning. Adjust time as necessary. When done to desired tenderness, splash with seasoned rice vinegar. Adjust salt and pepper as necessary. Serve hot.

Head on over the Nakano Rice Vinegar website to get your $1 off any rice vinegar coupon. Splash it on!
Photo by VirtualErn

Category: Foods and Recipes  Tags: ,  Comments off

Cool Off During National Iced Tea Month


iced tea Cool Off During National Iced Tea MonthHere in Minnesota, things happen quickly. A couple of weeks ago, I had the heat on. Today, the heat is still on, but it’s outside. Yesterday, there was an excessive heat warning. Welcome to the Midwest.

The heat warning is definitely worth heeding. Not only was it approaching 100 degrees, but the high humidity made it downright miserable. The change was also significant in that those few weeks back there was concern about drought and brush fires with the low humidity.

During the summer months when weather can change on a dime, it’s important to remember to stay hydrated. Can there be a perfect way to cool off than with a refreshing glass of iced tea? Drink up! It’s National Iced Tea Month. According to the Tea Association of the United States, iced tea has been a national pastime since 1904. Of course, tea of itself has been an important part of American history as well.

Iced tea has its own character about it. We associate it with summer and beach parties. In some circles, it’s a symbol of refinement. Whether it’s sweet tea or just plain iced tea, our love affair with iced tea has lived on. So, as these summer days wane on, avoid the hottest times of the mid-afternoon. Relax with a perfect pitcher of iced tea.

Photo by Ayelie

Category: Outdoors  Tags:  One Comment

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