Happy Valentine's Day Eve

Valentine's Day is tomorrow and no matter how you feel about the holiday, you can't deny that any reason to celebrate love and eating chocolate is a good thing.

This year the pressure is off for my sweetie and I as we are going to a wedding on the big love day. Not only are the happy couple getting married on Valentine's Day, it's the 1 year anniversary of their first date! I can't imagine more pressure for a first date then one on Valentine's Day. Then again, a first date on St. Patrick's Day would be worse...yikes!

Anyway, we are excited to be getting dressed up, going to a fancy event and watching people we love, express their love and commitment to each other.

Enjoy celebrating all the people you love in your life! xo

And in case you need a quick and delicious chocolate recipe (who doesn't?), try this one from my good friend Tom.

Black Bean Brownies
-1 15 oz can of black beans
-3 eggs
-3 tbsp of oil (canola)
-1/4 cup cocoa
-1 tbsp baking powder
-1 tbsp vanilla extract
-3/4 cup sugar
-1/2 cup chocolate chips (I use dark chocolate ones, but you can use milk chocolate)

Preheat oven at 350. Grease a 8x8 pan (or whatever you have).
Combine all ingredients in a blender (except for the chocolate chips). Blend until smooth (it'll look and taste like pudding, yum!). Pour into the pan. Add the chocolate chips on top and bake until top and edges are dry (I usually stick a knife in the middle and if it's dry, the brownies are ready).

Stress-Free Eating

Fall, for many people is a crazy busy time. Kids are in full swing at school, work is gearing up for year end and the days are getting shorter...the vacation is over.

So how do we feel? STRESSED!! and then what do we do?...EAT!

At least that's what I do. So I thought there must be foods that relieve stress rather than make you feel more stressed and bloated? Well, there are! Here's 5 that I found that work for me, are easy to add to your diet and are super tasty. Remember, all in moderation!
  



Chocolate

Let's start off by stating the obvious!
Dark chocolate, in particular, is known to lower blood pressure, making you feel a sense of calm. Works for me! Indulge in moderation but really, there is nothing like it!

Avocados 

These delish fruits contain lutein, beta-carotene, vitamin E, and lots of folate which help to relieve stress. Add a few slices to a salad, burger or sandwich.

Oatmeal 
This comfort food causes your brain to produce serotonin, a feel-good chemical. So it also creates a soothing feeling that helps overcome stress. A great way to start you day!



Asparagus
They are also high in folate, which is essential for keeping you cool and calm. Steam them up and add to pasta or salads.









Berries 
Berries, including blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, have lots of vitamin C, which has been shown to be helpful in combating stress as it's been known to lower blood pressure. Add to yogurt, or eat a pint (kidding...but I could) on it's own.