The Sky Invited Me to Walk!

In my last post, I mentioned how excited I was that we were about to get some snow... now I know many of my readers don't care for snow at all, but you know how much I do LOVE the snow. Last week, the snow began to fall. It hasn't been a whole lot, we perhaps have about 8", but still, it has arrived! 

We've had very unusual visitors in our home! I've discovered four butterflies fluttering around our home! 

I think they may have come in with the wood that we bring in to burn in our woodstove.  I also think that all the warm weather we have had may have confused them! 

As the snow has fallen, I walk every day, enjoying the beauty around me. 

Our little home looks so cozy with its warm blanket of snow! 

Our writing group held a belated Christmas party.  We had a large windstorm come through on the day we were to have our Christmas party, and it got rescheduled for January. 

We had such a good time together, sharing our favorite Christmas stories and playing the Christmas exchange game. 

They gifted me with this beautiful mug. It says, "God made rainy days so gardeners could find time to read". I love it! And yes, we still have our Christmas tree up.  I will probably start taking things down this week. I have been enjoying the lights so much, though! 

A dear friend and blogger shared her chia pudding recipe with me. Oh my! Have you tried chia pudding? It is SO good! And full of good things. I can't have much dairy, so a milk alternative works really well for me. Here is the recipe...

CHIA SEED PUDDING
1 cup milk (any kind you like)
1/4 cup chia seeds
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 cup cacao powder (or cocoa powder)
2 tbsp sweetener to taste (you can use honey, maple syrup, etc)
or 1 dropper Stevia liquid (which is what I used)

Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl for 1-2 minutes until well combined. Let sit for about 5 minutes. This lets the chia seeds absorb some of the liquid.  Then mix again, cover, and place in the fridge for 1-2 hours or overnight. Serve with your favorite toppings. Our current favorite is a handful of blueberries. 


 

Another reason we love Chia Seed Pudding is because of all the heart-healthy ingredients! Here is some nutritional information about Chia Seed Pudding made with cacao powder and coconut milk. 

Coconut Milk is rich in MCTs and lauric acid, which fuels your body and supports brain health. Its natural electrolytes (magnesium, potassium) aid hydration and muscle recovery.

Chia Seeds are loaded with fiber, omega-3s, and plant protein, which help regulate digestion, stabilize blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and support strong bones.

Cacao Powder is high in flavonoids that enhance heart and brain health, improve circulation, and uplift mood through natural serotonin and endorphin support.

Stevia adds sweetness without calories or blood sugar spikes, making this pudding perfect for low-carb or diabetic diets.

We have been learning a lot of wonderful things as we have attended the Cardiac Rehab classes.  I love to learn and know more about the body, its functions, and ways we can eat healthier, but still have food taste good. That is really important to us. So, I will probably be sharing more of these recipes in upcoming blog posts, and may even consider writing another cookbook with those recipes in mind as I've made them in my own kitchen. 

Walking is one of the best forms of exercise you can get! Riley and I walk at least once a day, and if Dan is able, he walks with us.  Sometimes, if the skies invite me - I will walk as the sun sets. On this day - the skies were INCREDIBLE! I was so glad I decided to walk! 

Did you know how soothing it is to take your mind, filled to the brim with the day's activities, and let it relax under skies like this? Truly incredible! 

Since we are on the subject of walking, let's chat about it for a bit. Do you walk regularly?  We know that walking is a powerhouse when it comes to exercise—it boosts heart health, strengthens muscles, improves mood, aids digestion, balances blood sugar, and supports longevity with minimal joint stress. 

I started walking every day back in 2017, and it has been a consistent pattern in my life ever since.  

I began walking with my dogs. They are great motivators and will lovingly remind you when it is time to walk!  Annie-Girl was such an incredible walking companion, and I miss her so much. She was our German-Shepherd/husky mix who passed away a couple of years ago.  Her enthusiasm for walking was key to keeping me on my walking routine.  

I always say that walking is healthy for both my body and soul. The exercise restores my mind, as well as brings health to my body.  Walking will strengthen the heart, improve circulation, and regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels.  It is recommended to walk at least 15 minutes after eating a large meal, as it will aid in digestion! I have found this to be very true!  

Walking also boosts your energy. After coming home from a walk, I am energized to tackle projects that I have been putting off.  Whether you walk at a brisk pace or just leisurely stroll, walking daily contributes to a stronger body, a clearer mind, and a longer, healthier life. Have you experienced the joys of daily walking? 

Many of you are long-time readers of my blog and know that walking is like life and breath to me.  I know that not everyone has the best area to walk in.  But if you have a good neighborhood or place to get out and enjoy, I encourage you to try. It could be the best thing you've ever done for your health :) 

Here is a video that I made several years ago when Annie-Girl and Riley and I were on a morning walk. I hope it blesses your heart! Have a blessed and wonderful week!