Simple Tips To Find Balance In A Crazy Life + Delicious Recipes

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #NatureMadeHealthPack #CollectiveBias This blog does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with your healthcare practitioner.

 Last year I turned 30.

It was like any other birthday. Honestly, as much of a fuss as most of my friends have made when turning the 'big 3-0' it's really quite un-extraordinary. I'm a pretty firm believer that age is but a number to chronicle the passing of time, rather than mark the loss of it. And while it's true, as we progress on this crazy journey called life, there are legal and physical landmarks often associated with various milestones, one is only as young (or old) as they are in spirit and in heart.

This all being said our bodies are the vessel in which we progress through life, and more than any number on a birthday card, it's how we choose to take care of it which ultimately weighs the largest on how much living we'll get out of it.

So, back to me and my birthday, there I was feeling no less or more extraordinary than the day before, having recently turned 30. I'd visited my personal physician for an annual checkup and he'd shared a few criticisms of his own. Side note: Am I the only one who feels as though they've let their doctor down when they get less than ideal feedback???? But I digress- I could go into the nitty gritty but it really comes down to this:

One's health is and always well be a complex and constantly changing picture painted by a number of factors. Some we can impact, while others we can only anticipate, and others we simply can't avoid. There is no magical formula, no paint by number, to perfect health.

When I asked my personal doctor what his best advice was for me, knowing I had some personal health hurdles to begin trying to overcome, his response was simple,

"The same thing I tell every patient. Make time."

Time, of course, for one's health. Whether it's researching new recipes that are lower in sodium/sugars/fats, researching one's family tree for hereditary dispositions, logging the amount of water drank in a day, or scheduling an annual checkup. So many people, myself included, express that their crazy lifestyles don't allow much time to really stop an care for themselves. But there are a few simple things one can do to help maintain balance within their hectic life.

You don't have to make plans to climb a mountain or start training for Secret Ninja Camp (yes, that's a real thing- and yes, it does sound awesome) to help find balance. In fact you really shouldn't make any drastic life changes, dietary or physically, without first consulting your own personal physician. But I do suggest that you expand your personal interests by defining specific goals. Goals, in general, help foster structure through a progression timeline. Set realistic goals to achieve a specific result, or lead up to a culminating event/triumph. Share your personal goals with close family and friends and let them support you as you progress.

Expect hurdles. Finding time to reach for a goal while you're already juggling work, family, personal relationships and more will be a struggle. It wouldn't be a goal if it wasn't. Don't punish yourself for setbacks but do recognize what caused them and how you can better overcome the hurdle next time. Whenever possible break your daily/weekly progress into many smaller sections of time that can fit in between your existing schedule. Breaking up your efforts and spreading them out will seem much less tedious than trying to cram 1 or 2 bigger efforts into your regular routine.

Having goals are nice, and break up the monotony of everyday commitments and obligations but caring for one's self can seem like a complete mystery when the topic turns to nutrition. General guidelines for healthy eating exist but there's always some fancy click bait lurking on the side of your Facebook browser tempting you with the latest 'study' or trend. On top of that every person truly is unique- without annual health exams and clear communication with a personal physician you truly can't know what your body is lacking, or has an excess of.

Disclaimers aside, as much as I try, I don't have the time to research all the nutrient potentials of everything I eat. I wish I had time to cook a homemade meal every day, or the willpower to never eat a scrap of 'junk' food, but I don't. What I can do is shop at Sam's Club, where I personally save time by using their 'Click N' Pull' online ordering system on thousands of items from toothpaste and batteries to fresh produce. Because I can shop amazing club pricing from just about anywhere with a WiFi or data connection I don't have to compromise on smart eating due to price or lack of time. I simply place my order online, show my order confirmation receipt to the Customer Service desk in store, and have my entire purchase brought out to me ready to go.

Sam's Club also offers a wide array of personal hygiene and health maintenance products (mine even has a full service pharmacy) in quantities that keep me stocked longer, so I can spend less time shopping and more time tackling my busy life. One of those products is the Nature Made® Daily Diabetes Health Pack, scientifically formulated to supply nutritional support for people with diabetes or prediabetes. † It's the #1 Pharmacist Recommended Diabetic Multivitamin Supplement Brandǂ It's unique 6 daily supplement health packs are individually packaged to inspire healthy choices for general population including those who are Pre-Diabetic or Diabetic to live a healthy lifestyle. † Inside each Health Pack you'll find A Multivitamin/Mineral providing essential vitamins and minerals for daily nutritional support. † Fish Oil with Vitamin D3: Fish oil provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, EPA DHA, which help support a healthy heart. † Vitamin D supports bone, teeth, muscle and immune health.† Vitamin D3 is the body’s preferred form of vitamin D.* You'll also find Alpha Lipoic Acid with Green Tea which has antioxidant properties which neutralize free radicals.†

It may sound like a mouth-full, okay it's literally a mouth full of nutritional supplements, but it's proven a great way for me to fit nutritional support into my daily routine.

Another important key to finding balance in a busy lifestyle is by taking time to explore new ways to enjoy favorite things. For example, if you find yourself stopping into the local smoothie shop every night on your way home it might be a good idea to look into ways to include that fruit flavored experience into a less complicated routine at home. Researching alternative ingredients or presentations of foods you tend to lean on can help introduce new nutrients and benefits with minimal effort or cost.

I found an amazing recipe for Sparkling Strawberry Mint Infused Water on the My Food Advisor® website that's recently changed the way I consume water while at home throughout the day. Not only has it saved excess seasonal strawberries from going to waste I've found I personally don't crave any added sugars when I introduce the sensation of carbonation with the rich flavors of real fruit. I just might enjoy this particular recipe more than my favorite drink at the local cafe.

Of course having a collection of trusted resources to help tackle your biggest time hurdles will really make the process of finding balance much easier. Consider spending an afternoon gathering and researching resources which may work for you. Having a local retailer which offers a wide range of smart shopping decisions with a variety of convenient shopping methods, such as Sam's Club, can be a worthy asset on your list. You may also with to take note of a few reputable websites which provide recipes searchable based on nutritional criteria. I prefer to utilize My Food Advisor® and the USDA recipe database, but your needs may vary based on your personal balance goals.

In fact, I recently tried out a new recipe I found while browsing the My Food Advisor® website, Turkey Sausage and Egg Casserole. At just 100 calories per serving with approximately 4g of sugars and 13g of protein I found it to be a deliciously filling way to kick start our weekend routine. Be sure to grab the recipe directly from the My Food Advisor® website, then follow along here as we cover the simple steps to make it.

To begin you'll want to gather some basic ingredients:

Cooking Spray

2 C Nonfat Milk

4-5 Green Onion Bunches

1/2 TSP Dry Mustard

1/4 TSP Salt (Optional, We don't include it)

1/4 TSP Black Pepper

16 OZ Egg Substitute

4 Slices Whole Wheat Bread

3 Precooked Breakfast Sausage Patties 

1/4 C Reduced Fat Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Begin by preheating the oven to 350F.

Coat a 9x13 dish with cooking spray.

Prepare your ingredients.

• Cut your bread into 1/2" cubes.
• Dice your turkey sausage patties.
• Chop your green onions down to about 1/2" into the whites.

Start by whisking the nonfat milk, green onions, dry mustard, salt (optional), pepper, and egg substitute in a medium sized bowl. Since an egg substitute is being used you really only need to whis to combine and distribute the spices evenly.

Next spread the bread cubes evenly over the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the diced turkey sausage  on top and in between then slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the top. The green onions will want to 'clump' on your initial pour so pour slowly and keep moving for even distribution. Top with the shredded cheese and cover with foil.

Bake the casserole for 20 minutes at 350F then carefully pull the oven rack forward, remove the foil, and place back into the oven for an additional 40 minutes. We like a nice 'crust' on the top so we let ours bake just a tad longer to really get that golden hue.

I loved this recipe because it was easy enough to prepare in under 10 minutes, and gave us a fair amount of leftovers. I wound the bread was naturally sweet and think our decision not to add salt didn't hinder it any way. If anything, next time, I'll add an extra dash of pepper- though the beauty of pepper is each individual can season their own serving if truly desired. It also just so happens to pair perfectly with my new favorite drink, the Sparkling Strawberry Mint-Infused Water from above!

Ultimately finding balance amidst the craziness will never be a perfect science at any age. There are a variety of tools one can use to help but my favorite truly is having a support system. Learning what works for you, personally, will always be trial and error, but making the most of life while you do it will always be made most possible through a strong tribe of family, allies and friends. Now, tell me, what are some resources or trick you use to help maintain balance everyday?

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any diseases.

ǂ Based on US News & World Report – Pharmacy Times Survey

Are you looking for more great resources to help balance your crazy life? Grab the Sam's Club shopping list resource below for your next shopping trip! 

#SpreadKleenexCare And Holiday Cheer With The Elfing Tradition- FREE Printable

Momma Told Me: Give without reason.


My favorite thing about the holidays, by far, is the excuse to spread a little goodwill and cheer. Growing up, Momma's mother, my grandmother, was notorious for opening her home to anyone in need. She would also, quite literally give you the watch/necklace/sweater off her back if you so much as complimented them. As she explained to me, many times before her passing, she was an especially blessed lady, with an exceptionally full and fortunate life, and the only thing she then desired was to spread the fortune with others. She volunteered with and fed the local nuns, kept the doors of her personal home open to any wayward employees on holidays (so that no one she knew would ever have to be alone,) and gave without hesitation when asked. She was a pretty freaking awesome lady, if I do say so.

As an adult, I've constantly drawn upon her memory as my own inspiration to give to those in need, and generally give without reason. Helping someone unexpectedly and without question can often be just as valuable as helping those with outstretched hands. That is to say, we should all actively practice 'Paying it forward' outside of the coffee window drive-thru. Even more importantly, for parents, there are always small pairs of eyes watching us, and it's great to share the joy of giving when we can. Traditions such as 'Booing' and 'Elfing' have come around out from such a purpose.

What on Earth is Elfing?

Elfing is the act of playing seasonal 'Dong, Dong, Ditch,' with a positive outcome. Essentially an individual or family would put together a small gift basket to leave on a neighbor's door, anonymously. The 'Elf' (in this case you or your family,) would place a note with the basket of goodies explaining what has happened and asking the recipient to 'pass it on' by spreading more good cheer and acting as an elf themselves. This time of year I've seen 'Elves' deliver everything from a frozen turkey to a 'get better kit' for the seasonal woes. There are no rights or wrongs, really- the only goal is to have fun, and spread smiles.

For our 'Elfing' kit we decided to pick up a small pre-lit coffee table tree, some holiday hand soap, a delicious smelling candle, a pop up tape dispenser (for seasonal wrapping,) some light up 'snowballs,' a few of our favorite K-Cups, homemade cookies, and several packages of Anti-Viral Kleenex. Every home needs extra Kleenex on hand this time of the year, and we always have plenty to share thanks to the convenience of club pickup orders and bulk sizing at Sam's Clubhttps://ooh.li/8083a94. I thought the new Anti-Viral Kleenex were especially thoughtful and important since they will undoubtedly soothe AND protect my recipients throughout the season.

After you've assembled your 'Elfing' gift go ahead and print our FREE printable 'You've Been Elfed' starter kit twice. You'll want one copy to include with your surprises, and another to give your recipient for them to elf with! Or, you can write this post link on the back and send theme here to grab their own printables! I used a hole punch to run some festive ribbon through the door hanger and Elfing announcement as a little extra touch. Make sure that your recipient knows to hang the 'Wev'e Been Elfed' sign on the door so the next Elf knows not to stop there!

The neighbor we chose to elf happens to be friends with us on Facebook, so it was especially rewarding to see their enthusiasm online! Not only were they completely surprised by the gesture but the follow up responses to her post were quite excited and interested in the 'Elfing' process. I, personally, participate in a lot of 'swaps' this time of year because I like to shop for strangers and receive surprises. 'Elfing' is very similar, except you know someone else will receive the kind gesture in return. And that's precisely the good cheer the holidays are made of!

Start your own 'Elfing' tradition in your neighborhood today and pick up all of your seasonal necessities, such as Kleenex at Sam's Club. You'll find great varieties of quality, soft, Kleenex, such as Anti-Viral, Ultra Soft, and seasonal prints/packaging in bulk sizes sure to get you and your family through the holiday season. Now, tell me, how do you give back during the holiday season? Does your family participate in a tradition similar to Elfing?

What Daughter Says:  The holidays are a great reason to give, but life should be lived in the spirit of giving, no matter the season.

October Is National Adopt A Dog Month- See How We Plan On Helping!

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #CollectiveBias

Momma Told Me: I love all my children, even the ones with tails.

My pets are my children. I don't expect everyone to get it, really, but I try my best to explain and share my love of animals with anyone who will listen. It's not that I prefer to have fur-children over human children, my style of family planning just happens to have tails before rattles and diapers. If you think about it, really, pets are really like toddlers that never grow up. Sure, you get just as excited when the puppy 'makes it to the potty on time,' but the relief and joy over that never really ends, nor does the cleaning up after! Yes, being a pet parent is a labor of love. And if the government would allow me I'd probably have an entire litter of four-legged friends and adopt-a-dog every time I saw one roaming the streets.

Unfortunately my space, and animal zoning regulations aren't as big as my heart. In fact, some critics would argue the 5lb ball of fluff I call a dog (Norah) doesn't even qualify as a dog- but she's about all we have room for in our condo with the cat. None-the-less, I grew up with a mother who was constantly taking animals in from shelter 'kill lists.' The animals that needed advanced care or end of life comfort most overcrowded shelters could not provide. As a result, I grew up with the desire to help homeless, and needy, animals as much as I could.

I'm excited to share that you and I both can help a dog, and shelter, in need this October when we buy Pedigree dog food and treats at Sam's Club. In honor of National Adopt A Shelter Dog Month, Pedigree has teamed up with Sam's Club to donate a bowl of food to a shelter in need for every Pedigree product purchased at Sam's Club this month! The 20lb Small Breed bg we picked up at Sam's Club will feed Nora for several months, and was so affordable we even picked up a second bag, and some Pedigree Stackerz tear treats to donate directly to our local shelter. That's 3 bowls of food donated by Pedigree, and a whole lot of yum directly from our household to the county animal shelter!

In fact, visiting the local shelter is something we do at least once a month, and usually more often. Volunteering time at our shelter requires a once a week, 4 hour commitment; peanuts when you consider it! We also have found ways to help out be dropping off excess toys and treats from special couponing scores items that are simply too big for Nora (we get a lot for reviews), and even great buys on toys we find from the dollar store. We never visit the shelter empty handed and no donation is too small. But one of the most important ways you can help out is by spreading the word that there are great animals right at your local shelter, waiting for a home.

For years I have been supporting a local non-profit organization known as No Kill LA; which aims to make Los Angeles, CA a kill free shelter zone. In 2012 over 13k healthy animals were put to sleep in Los Angeles shelters due to overcrowding, and in 2013 9k. While the numbers are getting smaller these facts are still staggering, and this is just in a metropolitan area near me; what are your statistics near you? Unfortunately, as much as Sabrina (12) would like to think so, adopting a dog is not a decision that can be made on a whim. It can be hard not to give into the puppy eyes of your children, or the literal puppies, but adopting a dog is a big decision.

I encourage all animal lovers considering a new pet to visit a local shelter; it's free and many are open 7 days a week with extended hours. While you may want a puppy; consider your family's makeup- do you have older pets that might have trouble adjusting to a rambunctious new pet? Do you have younger children that might not be able to understand the needs and energy of a puppy? A dog is not considered a puppy if it is older than a year in age; and the adoption rates drop significantly for every year after. But adopting an older dog can be beneficial in many circumstances. Most adult dogs are house-trained, and even socialized with humans and other pets. Talk to your shelter representatives to learn about each dog and their individual temperaments.

On our most recent shelter visit we had a chance to get in a little play and cuddle time with a nameless chihuahua who had been taken in off the street just 6 days before. Chihuahuas and pit bulls are common overpopulated breeds found on the streets near us. This particular sweet girl had had a few litters of her own and was very timid at first. Holding her close to her body and offering some gentle scratches beneath her chin Sabrina was at last able to get the dog to  open her eyes and stop trembling. Because I could not take her home, I promised we would share her story, and ID number with friends and family who might have an inviting home.

If you are able to accommodate a pet, or more pets, in your home, you may wish to ask your local animal services and shelter about becoming a foster parent. Foster homes are crucial to easing the overcrowding in shelters, extending an animals potential adoptions time, and identifying any special needs an animal may have (IE: not good with kids, needs an active lifestyle, prefers natural litter) that may give them better odds of being adopted by the right home. Most animal shelters seek foster homes for small animals, cats, and dogs- and you can join a foster program while still maintaining control over which animals you do or do not welcome into your home; it is always voluntary.

Last, but not least, in honor of National Adopt A Shelter Dog month I wanted to re-share an idea I featured here on the blog last year. Our family always has a few gallon sized bags full of water, antiseptic/hand sanitizer, granola bars, and tuna, for any homeless we may pass in the car on the street. We have recently begun adding single serve dog  food pouches for the numerous homeless we see with pets by their side. I guess you can say seeing how #PedigreeGives has really inspired us! If you'd like to learn more about Pedigree's initiatives and great products be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube and remember, for every Pedigree product you buy at Sam's Club this month they will donate a bowl of food to a dog in need!

Do you have an adopted shelter pet? How can you give back to the shelters and homeless animals?

What Daughter Says: There are many ways you can share your heart with an animal in need this October!

As a special note, the #PedigreeGives Twitter Party will take place on 10/14 at 1PM EST (10 PST)- So, if you love animals an want to talk pets, head on over and RSVP, there will be $550 in prizes!