Healthy Chicks

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! However, unfortunately holiday parties can bring on quite a bit of anxiety…especially around food. It’s common to feel anxious, guilty or even fearful over what you’re going to eat at your next social gathering. Sound familiar? No worries! Here are 6 healthy ways to navigate eating at holiday parties like a champ (without giving up apple pie).

1. Bring a Homemade Dish

Consider bringing a homemade dish to your next holiday gathering! Rather than focusing on the calories or fat content, focus on the beautiful, nourishing ingredients that go into your meal. Follow Mother Nature’s lead by cooking with seasonal produce like winter squash, apples, pears, sweet potatoes, beets, and of course — an extra dose of love!

2. Slow Down

The holidays only come once a year, and so does grandma’s famous mashed potatoes. Why race through them? Instead, take a deep breath before your meal, slow down and enjoy yourself. Relish in the flavors, the smell and the texture, and thoroughly soak in every last bite.

3. Celebrate the Experience

If eating at holiday parties brings you a lot of anxiety (trust me, I’ve been there), try shifting the focus … Read More!

Ever since having a baby about two months ago, online grocery shopping has become my new best friend — especially when I’m strapped for time. After all, you never know how long of a window you are going to get before the next poop explosion or crying fit.

The first time I took baby girl to Trader Joe’s, I was in and out of there in record time of about 15 minutes, and religiously stuck to my grocery list. Heck, I even skipped the free sample!

That’s why I love Thrive Market, an online marketplace offering wholesale prices on quality products you can trust. From healthy snacks to natural skincare, Thrive’s my go-to for online shopping.

And I can order all my favorites — one handed, with the push of a finger, while nursing — without even leaving my home. Talk about feeling like a Mom Boss!

Here’s a peek instead my Thrive Market cart, including my favorite gluten-free pantry staples, healthy snacks and beauty essentials. Get 25% off your first Thrive order here!

Pantry Staples

• Coconut Secret Organic Coconut Aminos – delicious gluten-free, soy-free alternative for sauces, “soy sauce” and salad dressings!
• Fourth & Heart Grass Fed

Whether you’re a college student with a jam-packed semester (been there!) or a new mom (there now!), there’s one thing we all have in common: our time is precious.

That’s why I like to keep it simple when it comes to cooking. After all, who has the time or patience to spend hours following 20-ingredient recipes pulled from a glossy cooking magazine? Not this girl!

During the weeks leading up to my due date, I planned ahead because I knew cooking would be the last thing on my mind when I got home from the hospital with baby. Heck, I’d be lucky if I got a shower in!

Here are 7 simple, healthy freezer-friendly meals and snacks you can make ahead in bulk when you’re strapped for time like me. Enjoy!

Crustless Quiche

This is my favorite on-the-go breakfast when you’re looking to squeeze in some extra protein, especially if you crave savory like me! Simply scramble up a dozen eggs, and whisk in your favorite toppings. We did one batch with spinach, feta, shiitake and sun-dried tomatoes and another “Western Style” with ham, peppers, mushrooms and shallots.

Pour into muffin tins, and bake on 350 for about … Read More!

Yesterday,  I went to Trader Joe’s to scoop up some healthy goodies to get me through the 39th week of pregnancy, and to shamelessly try to walk baby girl out. While I’m still very much pregnant today, at least I got a delicious meal out of it!

You’ll love this easy Arugula Quinoa Salad packed with colorful veggies, omega-rich walnuts, tangy feta and a delicious fig balsamic. The best part? Lunch is taken care of for the entire week, or you could serve as a side with dinner alongside protein of your choice.

Arugula Quinoa Salad with Feta & Fig Balsamic

• 1 box organic arugula
• 1 c. quinoa (yields about 3 c. cooked)
• 3 carrots, shredded
• 1 package of cooked & peeled beets, chopped
• 1 c. chopped walnuts
• 1/2 c. feta
• Avocado, sliced
• Olive oil
• Balsamic Vinaigrette (I used a delicious Fig Balsamic Glaze)

Cook quinoa according to directions, and allow to cool. Once cooled, combine with veggies, walnuts and feta. Toss with olive oil and balsamic to taste! … Read More!