May 1, 2013 – Livingleen

“Think before you speak” is one of those things I remember hearing all the time as a kid. I’m sure many of us are familiar with the old adage but is it something we practice in our adulthood?

Often times we don’t ask ourselves five simple questions before opening our mouths – Is it True? Is it Helpful? Is it Inspiring? Is it Necessary? Is it Kind? – even though we probably should.

While I can’t say I do it all the time, I make an serious effort to think before I express myself. Many of us have seemingly forgotten how powerful or painful speech can be; especially online. In our digital age people say ANYTHING they want without seeing the impact of their words.

Take time to ask if what you’re saying or writing is True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary and Kind…you just might surprise yourself!

(Cherry Almond Protein Muffins)

Looking for a mid-week sweet start? Whip up some cherry almond protein muffins for a delicious breakfast full of fiber and protein!

Indulge in some baked bliss and give your morning an extra boost at about 100 calories! These little gems have oats, whole wheat, and protein to keep you full and energized as well as powerful little bursts of sweet cherry goodness!

Cherries are a great source of fiber, rich in vitamins E,C,A and packed with anti-oxidants like melatonin which helps regulate sleep cycles and heart rhythm.

I am admittedly still tweaking the recipe a bit but here’s a good starting point (after I play around with it I will adjust the post to reflect the most yummylicious version and you are welcome to comment with suggestions of your own!): 1/2c. old fashioned oats, 1/2c. w.w. flour, 1 1/2 tbs. light brown sugar, 1tsp. cinnamon, 1tsp. baking powder, 1/4c. raw almonds roughly chopped, 1 egg, 1 scoop vanilla whey protein, 1tbs creme fraiche, 2tsp. sugar, 2/3c. vanilla almond milk, 1/2c. dried cherries.

Preheat to 400, mix the ingredients through almonds in a bowl together. Beat together the ingredients through almond milk in a bowl. Mix cherries into the wet ingredients and in three parts mix the dry into the wet. Scoop into muffin cups and bake for 17-20 minutes.

Give yourself a powerful start…enjoy!