After a long day at work, you deserve a snack that’s comforting, nourishing, and easy to pull together. Enter: the Apple Cinnamon Yogurt Parfait — a five-minute fall treat that tastes like dessert but feels like a hug in a bowl.
It’s layered with crisp cinnamon-spiced apples, creamy Greek yogurt, and crunchy granola—giving you just the right balance of protein, fiber, and cozy fall flavor. No oven, no stress, just fall goodness in a cup.
🧡 Why You’ll Love It:
Quick to prep: Ready in under 10 minutes
Fall flavors: Think apple pie vibes, without the effort
Nutritious & satisfying: Full of protein, fiber, and natural sweetness
Customizable: Make it your own with toppings or dairy-free swaps
🍎 Ingredients (Serves 1–2):
1 apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji are great), diced
½ tsp cinnamon
1 tsp maple syrup or honey
1 tsp coconut oil or butter (optional, for sautéing)
¾ cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
¼ cup granola (your favorite brand or homemade)
Optional toppings: chopped nuts, chia seeds, extra drizzle of maple syrup
🍂 Quick Instructions:
Warm the apples (optional): In a small pan, heat coconut oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced apple, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until apples are soft and fragrant.
Assemble your parfait: In a glass or bowl, layer Greek yogurt, half the apples, and a sprinkle of granola. Repeat layers.
Top it off: Finish with a drizzle of maple syrup, chopped nuts, or extra cinnamon. Enjoy warm or chilled!
✨ Quick Tips:
Make it portable: Pack it in a mason jar for a post-workout or on-the-go evening snack.
Vegan option: Use coconut yogurt and maple syrup.
Add protein: Stir a little protein powder into the yogurt for extra fuel.
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As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, it’s time to bring comforting flavors into your kitchen. These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with the cozy warmth of fall. Infused with rich maple syrup and warm spices, they’re perfect for sweater weather, apple cider sipping, and all things autumn.
🧡 Ingredients:
For the cookies:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¼ cups packed brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
¼ cup pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup!)
2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional topping:
¼ cup granulated sugar + ½ tsp cinnamon (for rolling)
🍁 Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add wet ingredients: Mix in the egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
Chill (optional but recommended): Chill dough for 30–60 minutes to help the cookies bake thicker and chewier.
Shape: Scoop dough into 1-inch balls. If using, roll each in cinnamon sugar before placing on the baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and centers look slightly soft.
Cool: Allow cookies to rest on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
🍎 Cozy Add-Ins (Optional):
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
½ cup white chocolate chips
A dash of ground cloves for deeper spice
📸 Autumn Vibes Tip:
Serve your cookies on a rustic wooden tray with mini pumpkins, colorful leaves, or a mug of hot tea or cider for the ultimate fall photo setup. Perfect for Instagram or Pinterest!
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When the sun is out and lemonade is flowing, there’s nothing better than a batch of soft, zesty lemon sugar cookies to celebrate the season. These cookies are light, refreshing, and packed with citrus flavor—ideal for picnics, potlucks, or an afternoon snack with iced tea.
Let’s get baking!
🌿 Ingredients:
For the cookies:
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
For rolling:
¼ cup granulated sugar
Optional: extra lemon zest mixed in
🥣 Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add wet ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
Combine: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
Shape: Scoop dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in the extra sugar (and zest, if using). Place on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look just slightly underbaked. They’ll finish setting as they cool!
Cool: Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
🌞 Pro Tips:
Add white chocolate chips for a creamy twist.
For extra lemon punch, drizzle with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days—or freeze for up to 3 months!
📸 Perfect for Summer Snaps
These cookies are not only delicious—they’re photo-ready! Stack them on a vintage plate, pair with fresh lemons, or serve with a tall glass of iced lemonade for a vibrant summer photo op.
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We’ve all been there—your alarm goes off, you groan, hit snooze maybe twice, and suddenly your morning feels more like a scramble than a start. But here’s a little secret: you only need ten minutes to turn it all around. No magic potion, no complicated routine—just a few simple steps that’ll leave you feeling more like a superhero than a sleepyhead.
Here’s your super quick, feel-good morning pick-me-up:
1. Hydrate Like a Champ (1 min) Before anything else, grab a big glass of water. Bonus points if you add lemon. Your body’s been without hydration all night—it’s basically a plant that needs watering. Trust me, it makes a difference.
2. Move That Body (4 mins) Not a full workout. Think mini dance party, a few yoga stretches, or a quick power walk around the house. Get your blood pumping and shake off that grogginess. Beyoncé playlist optional, but highly encouraged.
3. Breathe In Some Calm (3 mins) Sit still for a second—yes, even if you’re running late. Close your eyes and take a few deep, slow breaths. It’s a little reset button for your brain. Inhale confidence, exhale “I can’t even.”
4. Fuel Up Fast (2 mins) Grab a banana, a handful of nuts, or a spoonful of nut butter—something with a little protein and natural sugar to wake up your body and brain. Coffee’s great, but real fuel is better.
And boom—ten minutes, and you’re out the door (or onto Zoom) feeling like the energized version of yourself. Quick. Easy. Actually doable. You got this. 💪✨
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Spring has finally sprung! The flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, and there’s a certain magic in the air that makes it the perfect time to refresh your routine and embrace some new, positive habits. Whether you’re shaking off the winter blues or simply looking for a little reinvention, now’s the time to shake things up. Here are three simple (and totally doable) habits to cultivate this spring that will leave you feeling fresh, energized, and ready to take on the season with a smile.
1. Get Outside and Move (But Make It Fun!)
Let’s face it: when winter rolls around, the couch is often our best friend. But with the sunshine now beckoning us outdoors, it’s time to ditch the blankets and step into the fresh air. Spring is a perfect excuse to get active, but no need to sign up for a marathon (unless you really want to, no judgment here!). The goal is to find something fun to do that gets your body moving.
Take a stroll through your local park, ride your bike around the neighborhood, or even try an outdoor yoga class (hello, sun salutations!). The key here is to find something you enjoy—something that won’t feel like a chore. Dance around to your favorite tunes in your living room, or join a friend for a game of frisbee. Moving your body in enjoyable ways is an instant mood booster, and the best part? You’re soaking up that vitamin D while you’re at it!
Pro Tip: Make it a goal to get outside at least 20 minutes a day. It doesn’t sound like much, but the fresh air and natural light will work wonders on your energy levels.
2. Start a Spring Clean (That Actually Feels Good)
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. In fact, it can actually be a form of self-care—yes, really! Take a look around your home: those dusty corners and overflowing drawers are just waiting for a little TLC. Instead of thinking of it as a big, scary to-do list, approach it like a mini reset for your mind, body, and space. You’ll be amazed at how clearing clutter can give you a sense of peace and accomplishment.
Start with small, manageable tasks. Organize your closet, tidy up the kitchen counter, or finally tackle that drawer full of miscellaneous stuff (we all have one). And here’s the secret: make it fun! Put on your favorite playlist, light a nice candle, and turn cleaning into a mini dance party. Trust us, once you start making progress, you’ll be surprised at how good it feels to have a fresh, tidy space.
Pro Tip: Declutter your wardrobe by donating or selling clothes you haven’t worn in over a year. Spring is the season of renewal, so it’s the perfect time to let go of things that no longer serve you!
3. Drink More Water (With a Twist of Fun!)
Okay, we know, we should be drinking water all year round, but in spring, it feels a little easier to sip on some refreshing H2O. You’re sweating a little more, the air is warmer, and your body needs hydration to keep you energized as you take on your new outdoor activities. So, why not make drinking water a habit that you can actually look forward to?
Spruce up your water routine with a little creativity. Add fresh fruit like lemon, cucumber, or mint to your water for a spa-like experience. Or try making your own iced herbal tea, and have a little pitcher ready to go in the fridge for easy access. Not only will you feel hydrated and refreshed, but you’ll feel like you’re living your best, health-conscious life, too.
Pro Tip: Keep a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day. Having it on hand will remind you to drink more, and hey—being eco-friendly is a win!
In Conclusion: Spring Forward with These Habits
So, there you have it: three simple habits to help you bloom into your best self this spring! Whether it’s getting outside and moving, decluttering your space, or hydrating like a pro, each of these habits will leave you feeling more energized, refreshed, and ready to take on whatever the season throws your way. Embrace the lightness of spring, and remember—it’s all about balance, fun, and making small changes that lead to big rewards. Happy spring, everyone!
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We all know water is the MVP when it comes to hydration, but sometimes, we crave something with a little more pizzazz—something with flavor that still keeps us feeling good inside. Luckily, there’s a whole world of healthy drink options beyond water, and they’re packed with nutrients, flavor, and sometimes even a little fun. So, grab a glass, and let’s dive into some refreshing alternatives that are just as good for your body as they are for your taste buds!
1. Herbal Teas: Sip Your Way to Calm and Clarity
Herbal teas are a fantastic way to hydrate while treating yourself to a little zen moment. Whether you’re sipping on a warm cup of chamomile before bed or a cool glass of peppermint tea in the afternoon, there’s an herbal brew for every mood. Plus, many herbal teas come with added health benefits—ginger tea is great for digestion, while peppermint can help with soothing headaches. Feeling a little extra fancy? Add a slice of lemon or a dash of honey for some extra flavor and sweetness!
Pro Tip: Try iced herbal teas in the summer months. They’re a great way to hydrate and cool down without the sugar spike from regular iced teas!
2. Kombucha: The Fizz That’s Actually Good for You
If you’re looking for a bubbly, fermented drink with a bit of a tangy kick, kombucha is your new best friend. This fizzy tea is packed with probiotics, which are awesome for gut health and digestion. Plus, it comes in a ton of fun flavors—ginger-lemon, berry, and even lavender—so it’s hard to get bored with your kombucha choices. Just keep in mind, kombucha does have a bit of alcohol due to the fermentation process (don’t worry, it’s minimal!), so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Pro Tip: Start with a small serving of kombucha if you’re new to it; the tangy taste might take a little getting used to, but it’s totally worth it!
3. Infused Water: Water, But Make It Fancy
If plain water just doesn’t do it for you, infused water is an easy and flavorful upgrade. Simply toss some fruit, herbs, or even veggies into your water, and you’ll get a refreshing, nutrient-packed drink. Popular combos include lemon and mint, cucumber and lime, or strawberries and basil. You get all the hydration of water with a fun twist of flavor—and bonus, the natural ingredients provide vitamins and antioxidants.
Pro Tip: Keep a pitcher of infused water in your fridge for easy, on-the-go hydration. It’s an easy way to get extra nutrients without any added sugar.
4. Coconut Water: The Tropical Hydration Hero
Coconut water is nature’s version of an energy drink! Packed with electrolytes, it’s perfect for rehydrating after a workout or a hot day in the sun. Plus, it has a naturally sweet taste that’s refreshing without being overly sugary. It’s a great alternative to sports drinks that are often full of artificial colors and sweeteners. And if you’re in the mood for a tropical vibe, you can’t go wrong with a chilled glass of coconut water—it’s like a vacation in a cup!
Pro Tip: Look for coconut water that’s 100% pure and free from added sugar or preservatives to keep it as healthy as possible.
5. Fresh Fruit Smoothies: A Meal in a Glass
Smoothies are the perfect way to pack a bunch of nutrients into a single drink. Throw in some spinach, berries, banana, and a splash of almond milk, and you’ve got a delicious, healthy snack that’ll keep you satisfied for hours. You can even sneak in some chia seeds, flax, or protein powder to give your smoothie an extra nutrient boost. They’re versatile, customizable, and a fun way to mix up your usual drink routine.
Pro Tip: Blend in some frozen fruit for a thicker, creamier texture that feels like a treat!
Bottom Line: Drink Happy, Drink Healthy!
You don’t have to stick to just water to stay hydrated—there are plenty of healthy, tasty alternatives that can keep your body feeling good and your taste buds satisfied. Whether it’s a soothing herbal tea, a fizzy kombucha, or a fresh fruit smoothie, there’s a healthy drink out there for everyone. So go ahead, try something new, and raise your glass to healthy hydration!
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Starting your day with a healthy morning routine can make a significant difference in how you feel, how productive you are, and how you approach the challenges of the day ahead. A well-crafted morning routine sets a positive tone for the rest of the day, enhancing both your physical and mental well-being. Here’s a guide to help you build a morning routine that will leave you feeling energized, motivated, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
1. Wake Up Early and Get Enough Sleep
The foundation of any healthy morning starts with a good night’s sleep. Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep each night to ensure you’re well-rested and rejuvenated for the day ahead. Try waking up at the same time each morning, even on weekends, to regulate your body’s internal clock. This consistency will help you feel more energized and less groggy when you wake up.
2. Hydrate Your Body
After a night of sleep, your body is often dehydrated. Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning is essential to rehydrate and jumpstart your metabolism. You can also add lemon or a pinch of salt for added health benefits like aiding digestion and balancing electrolytes.
3. Stretch or Do Light Exercise
Movement in the morning can help shake off any stiffness and get your blood flowing. Gentle stretching, yoga, or a short walk are great ways to ease into your day. If you’re up for it, a quick workout can release endorphins, improve your mood, and increase your energy levels for the day.
4. Practice Mindfulness or Meditate
Taking just 5-10 minutes for mindfulness or meditation can have a powerful impact on your mental well-being. Practicing mindfulness helps you stay focused, reduces stress, and cultivates a positive mindset. Whether it’s deep breathing, guided meditation, or just sitting quietly, giving your mind a moment of calm before diving into the day can improve your mental clarity.
5. Eat a Healthy Breakfast
What you eat in the morning fuels your body for the day ahead. Opt for a balanced breakfast that includes protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Foods like oatmeal, eggs, avocado toast, or smoothies with fruits and greens can provide lasting energy and help maintain steady blood sugar levels throughout the morning. Avoid sugary cereals or pastries that can lead to energy crashes.
6. Set Intentions for the Day
Take a moment to reflect on your goals and intentions for the day. This could be a simple to-do list or a more profound journaling practice to set your priorities and frame your mindset. Consider what you want to achieve, what attitude you want to carry with you, and how you’ll approach any challenges. Starting your day with purpose helps you stay on track and focused throughout the day.
7. Practice Gratitude
Take a few moments to acknowledge the things you’re grateful for. Whether it’s your health, relationships, or a new opportunity, practicing gratitude can shift your perspective to one of abundance and positivity. Studies have shown that gratitude can reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance overall happiness.
8. Limit Technology
Avoid diving straight into your phone, checking emails, or scrolling through social media as soon as you wake up. This can lead to unnecessary stress and distraction before you even begin your day. Instead, try to give yourself 30 minutes to an hour of technology-free time in the morning to focus on yourself, your body, and your mind.
9. Get Ready for the Day
Take time to shower, get dressed, and engage in other self-care practices that help you feel refreshed and confident. Dressing up, even if you’re working from home, can help put you in the right mindset to be productive.
10. Be Consistent
The key to a healthy morning routine is consistency. Building a new habit takes time, so be patient with yourself as you establish a routine that works for you. Start small by incorporating one or two of these habits and gradually build on them. The more consistent you are, the more natural your morning routine will feel.
Conclusion
Creating a healthy morning routine is a powerful way to take control of your day and set yourself up for success. By prioritizing sleep, hydration, movement, mindfulness, and proper nutrition, you can boost your mood, increase your productivity, and improve your overall well-being. Remember, the most important thing is to make your morning routine work for you—so feel free to adapt it to your personal needs and preferences. Start small, stay consistent, and enjoy the positive changes that follow!
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You may have heard celebrities rave about this diet, or maybe you have a friend who is trying it out. But what exactly does this diet consist of?
Basically, it’s a high fat, low carbohydrate diet. What are some of the benefits of this diet? Apart from being a healthy alternative, it also is linked with potential weight loss and fat loss.
A Keto diet is made up more or less of:
55-60% fats
30-35% protein
5-10% carbohydrates
But what do those percentages mean and how do they translate into a meal plan?
A basic Keto meal contains less than 50grams of carbs per day. The majority of calories in a Keto diet comes from fats, while a small portion comes from proteins.
Why is this diet effective?
Usually, the body relies on carbohydrates for energy, but when it can’t it will begin to burn fat for fuel. This is why a high-fat diet will help reduce fat mass, waist circumference, and overall weight.
Below is a 1-Week Meal Plan:
Have you tried Keto Diet before or are you planning to in the New Year? Let me know in the comments below!
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Collagen is one of the most important factors when it comes to having beautiful skin. Collagen production helps with acne and wrinkles, however, as the years go by collagen production decreases which makes wrinkles and crepes appear and even healing from wounds will take longer or scar. So how can one pause the hands of time? With a little help from foods that help boost collagen production, you can increase the chances of combating fine lines and have less scarring.
So nix the Botox and try these collagen-boosting foods to help promote not just younger skin, but healthier skin too (because bad skin happens at any age).
Vitamin C
This vitamin is found in many citrus foods such as oranges, kiwis, and pineapples.
Copper
Found in rich foods such as organ meats (livers, hearts, etc.), cocoa powder, and portabella mushrooms
Glycine
This is found in foods such as gelatin, chicken skin, and pork skin.
Zinc
This vitamin can be found in foods such as oysters, beef, and crabs.
As you can see there are many food options out there to help you include more collagen-boosting foods into your diet, so whether you’re vegan, or wish to eat less meat, you can find a way to choose a serving of these foods at least once a day.
Eat your way to beautiful skin and you won’t have to resort to unnatural ways of keeping it looking good!
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Are you one of those people who never know what to bring to a Thanksgiving gathering? This year, bring something that is both a crowd pleaser and doesn’t pack on the calories. I actually made this dish for a Friendsgiving gathering and it wasn’t long before it was all gone! This recipe is super easy as it doesn’t have that many ingredients and once it’s put together, the oven does the rest of the work!
Ingredients:
1 – pound Brussels Sprouts, trimmed and cut in half
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 Tablespoons Pure Maple Syrup
4 Slices bacon, cut into ½ inch pieces
½ Teaspoon Salt
¼ Teaspoon freshly ground Black Pepper
Prep Time: 10-minutes
Cook Time: 35-minutes
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (200 degrees C)
Place the Brussels Sprouts in a single layer into a baking dish (preferably glass).
Drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup, toss the sprouts to coat.
Sprinkle with bacon and season with salt and black pepper.
Roast in the preheated oven for about 35-minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sprouts are caramelized. Every so often, stir so they don’t get stuck or burned.
Calories:175 per 1-cup serving
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The Inkblotters 