It’s never too late to …

I have found that the minute I think I’m too old, I am. But I almost never think that … I just don’t think about my life, my dreams, etc. in relationship to my age. And I try not to let the endless list of excuses that we tend to make for ourselves stand in the way of things I really want. 

I’m lucky though … I’m surrounded by inspiring people in my life. From my wonderful colleagues at Days of Our Lives, to my amazing mother in law, and even so many of you who’ve shared your stories, I have never been at a loss for inspiration.

Carrot Cake in an Instant

I understand the irony of this week’s post, given Hilary’s inspiring post about her weight loss last week. But, I think a little treat every now and then is good … and I was excited to try baking a cake in my Instant Pot. 

My husband’s favorite is carrot cake, so I decided to try my hand at a fast carrot cake. This was easy and quick, and while it was shorter than I expected, it was delicious. Now, when I’m crunched for time and need to make a cake in a pinch, this will be my go to.

Slow & Steady Wins the Race

Two weeks ago, I shared my personal story of what’s been working for me lately as it relates to health and weight loss; and I asked you all to chime in and share your own stories. Because we all have to figure out what works for us.

I was delighted when Hilary, who first wrote a guest blog about this topic last year, reached out to share her update. Congratulations, Hilary, on your great progress … and thanks for sharing some very helpful tips with us! Check out Hilary’s update and what’s worked for her as she’s lost 28 pounds!

Taking a Leap of Faith

Anyone who has read this blog or followed me on social media knows that I have a very best friend, Carrie Davich. Carrie and I met in high school and we were fast friends. We’ve been friends through boyfriends and marriages and kids and businesses. And today, after 43 years of friendship, she is absolutely the family I chose.

Eight years ago, after talking about it for more years than I can count, Carrie opened a beautiful lifestyle/home store. Though she’d had her own business before, she’d been a stay at home mom for 17 years. It was a total leap of faith, and I admire the bravery such a leap took! But, of course, she’s done an amazing job with her store, Maude Woods. 

Getting (and Staying) Healthy: Finding What Works for You

I know you all must be tired of this topic … and I’m probably beating a really dead horse, but I just can’t seem to help myself. The health and weight loss battle has been a practically life-long struggle for me, and I’m sure many of you too. And maybe that’s why I keep coming back to it – it’s important to me and it also seems to resonate with so many of you. 

My goal in all of this isn’t to tell you what you should do, but rather inspire you to commit to doing SOMETHING. To finding your own path and whatever works best for you.

Trying Something New in the Kitchen: Instant Pot Carrot Parsnip Soup

Everyone is talking about the Instant Pot. A pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker and vegetable steamer all in one, this was evidently one of Amazon’s best selling items this holiday season … and it’s the best-selling kitchen item in the U.S. and worldwide! 

As you know, I love to cook, so after hearing all the talk, I was intrigued. I gave one to PLANK editor Mandy for Christmas, and crossed my fingers that Santa would have one for me under the tree. Thankfully, he read my list!

Skin Care Health: Don’t Stick Your Head in the Sand

Many years ago, I was waiting to get my hair cut and looking through Good Housekeeping magazine when I came across an article on skin cancer. I didn’t really think at the time it would have anything to do with me, but I had time to kill waiting for my appointment, so I read it.

I grew up on the beaches of Southern California before sun block was a given, and looking at the pictures they showed in the article, I thought “hey, I think I might have one of these pre-skin caners they’re talking about.”

So I made an appointment with a recommended dermatologist. She put a magnifying glasses on my face and marked the spots on my forehead and lip that she thought were of concern. Then, she gave me a type of Chemotheropy cream and told me to use it for a month and then switch to Aquaphor healing ointment.  Magic!