Healthy Chicks

Sorry my post was cut short yesterday with just a recipe. I wish I had a cool story like I was on a hot date, traveling overseas or pampering myself all day, but unfortunately it was quite the opposite. I had a terrible case of …dun dun dun…food poisoning. It was downright awful. For someone who hasn’t thrown up since I was 12-years-old after Oreos (minus that one time in college), it’s safe to say I was in complete misery. All I wanted was to be at home like a little kid where my mom could take care of me and bring me dry toast, crackers, and ginger ale. Well, the morning after my body is still recovering but I can at least get up to write a post, so I figured I’d share with you my November goals. It’s a new month, hence I feel there should be new goals. And if you know me, I’m always making little lists and personal goals for myself, so here goes!

1. To go on a date: Seriously it’s been too darn long. November is going to be the month of love for Rachel. OK, maybe not the month of love but I am determined to go on at least ONE date with a somewhat decent guy. I will update you in December to tell you the results…

2. To do Core Fusion Body Sculpt at least twice a week: My DVD came in the mail yesterday, and I couldn’t be more excited to start it! I want to be lean, toned & in rockin’ shape, and I think this DVD is the answer. Now twice a week is just my goal, but 3 times a week would be ideal. I can’t wait to challenge myself with these invigorating exercises and get my tushy into gear! Hey, maybe it’ll help with #1? hehe ; ) 

3. Read More: I hate to admit that Water for Elephants is still sitting on my nightstand, barely started. What a shame. This month I’m going to make it a point to read, even just few a few minutes, every night before bed. Reading helps me get away from it all, escape to a new world for a bit. Reading is good for the mind. 

4. Up My Yoga: I got into a zone a few months ago where yoga was a part of my lifestyle. Unfortunately lately I’ve let it slip away because I’m “too busy.” But really, no one can ever be too busy for yoga. Yoga is something that’s worth taking  60 or 90 extra minutes out of your day. It’ll help save time in the long run, as it clears your mind, de-sresses your bod and gives you amazing balance and energy. Seriously, how could you turn that down? I, Rachel Chemerynski, WILL practice yoga once (preferably twice) a week for the month of November, even if it’s running my own practice in my room. 

5. Do Something Different: Sometimes, I find myself getting into a comfortable habitual pattern. I think we all can attest to doing what works, and forgetting to add a little freshness to our lives. This month is going to all change for me. Whether it’s taking a cooking or pottery class or planning weekly “family dinners” with my friends, this month is going to be all about new. 

What are your goals for the month? 

Oh, and since I was feeling like complete crap yesterday, I thought it was only fitting to include a recipe that always makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Alas, I introduce you to my Feel Better Baked Butternut Squash, the absolute perfect fall dish. 

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*serves 3-4 people as a side

-1 large butternut squash or 1 package precut butternut squash

-1/2 TB ground cinnamon

-1 tsp. ground nutmeg 

-1 TB Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

-1 TB light agave syrup

-1/4 c. chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350 or 400. 

2. Line cookie sheet with foil, and spread squash evenly throughout.

3. Drizzle with cinnamon, nutmeg, olive oil, agave and optional nuts. 

4. Bake for 45 minutes or until squash is sizzling and slightly golden.