Hi guys!
Happy Monday 
How is your day going?
Today has been going as well as can be expected for a Monday…I call ‘em meh mondays for a reason! I’m sure you all know what I mean. This morning for a snack when I woke up I had this delicious bar + a 2 egg white fluffy:
I truly love this bar and the stats are amazing—190 calories and 10 grams protein. And they taste amazing with a great chewy/dense texture.
Breakfast was the usual oats…topped with the last of my on sale blackberries!
- 1/2 cup oats with 1/2 cup almond milk and 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 scoop chocolate protein
- 1 big scoop Naturally More
- blackberries!
I love blackberries…I only wish my wallet did as well! I wish I could eat these in my oatmeal every single day! Berries in oatmeal make this girl very happy
Lunch was yummy Pei Wei leftovers…..SO glad I saved some for today because it was soooo delish
+ a juicy pear for dessert!
Today was originally my day for a biking and that was my intention, but after I geared myself all up and made it 1/4 mile, it started to DOWNPOUR!! And then it proceeded to rain for the rest of the afternoon so there was no hope of going later. Instead, I did Level 1 of The Shred again (8 lb weights..I’m a beast!) followed by 20 minutes of a balancing flow yoga download and then used the foam roller! These 20 minute yoga downloads are the best. Such a nice little escape.
So, I usually think that I do a pretty good job staying positive on this blog. I don’t like to read about negativity myself so I don’t feel like others do either! I will admit that I can definitely have people pleasing tendencies and therefore, no matter how my day goes I always try to put on a happy face for you all, my readers!! However, there is a LOT going on at home right now….and of course I cannot get into details because, well, this is the internet at all, but my family would really appreciate your prayers during this time. I want you all to know that if something happens and you don’t hear from me for a couple days, don’t freak out, I WILL BE BACK…I just may have to tend to some family business. Also, if my appetite is not what it usually in the next few days, I trust you all will understand. I love and appreciate each and every one of you and am so thankful that you are in my life!
Whew! That was definitely on my chest. That being said, I really was not hungry for a snack this afternoon. Instead, I put my efforts into my favorite stress relieving activity: cooking! Chopping and dicing always makes me feel better . And for some reason, I kind of had a hankering for a coconut curry tonight so that is what I threw together!
Here’s what I did to serve two (leftovers for tomorrow!):
In a large saute pan, heat up 1 spoonful coconut oil and saute 1/2 minced red onion and 2 minced garlic cloves til’ fragrant. Add a spoonful of Thai Red Curry Paste as well as a pinch of hot pepper flakes and then whisk in half a can (7 oz worth) of light coconut milk + 1 cup water until it is all incorporated.
Add 1/2 block diced tempeh (I used tempeh tonight because I need to use it up, but you could totally use tofu) and simmer for 5-6 minutes. Season with lime juice and sea salt and serve with soba noodles garnished with fresh cilantro!
It turned out pretty good. Not as good as a restaurant’s coconut curry but oh well. For some reason nothing ever turns out as good as it does at your favorite Thai restaurant, no?!
Dessert was a sweet to honor my good friend Liz’s 21st birthday today!!!!!
Okay…actually SHE made the sweet but I thought of how much I love her as I ate it! Now I have one tiny piece of vegan chocolate chip-almond-fig blondie left in the freezer…….guess I’m going to have to bake some more asap!
Speaking of sweets, who bid on my Super-Charge-Me cookies up for grabs at Meghann’s bake sale today??!!! I can’t wait to bake YOU a batch!! I promise, they are absolutely mouth watering amazing and filling, too. Basically like a vegan homemade energy bar in cookie form…made better with dark chocolate of course! 
Tomorrow is work and then I am rushing straight from Greenwise to head over to Leafy Greens Cafe to work with the head chef for the afternoon, learning how to make all those delicious raw foods! I’m going to bring my camera, obvi, and can’t wait to give you all a recap of what I learn. I’m hoping she will divulge how to make that drool worthy raw carrot cake I saw on the menu!
Until then,
Prayers & love to you all!
{ 103 comments… read them below or add one }
You and your family are in my prayers.
Have a blessed Holy Week and a Happy Easter!
Jenna, you are such a sweetheart. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, be strong girl
I’ll be thinking and praying for you and your family! XOXO
thank you for the birthday shout-out, girl!! and you KNOW you’re in my deepest thoughts and prayers – hang in there.
Lots of prayers for your families right now. <3
It’s ok to be true to yourself and thanks for including us into your circle of friends.
You’re a beautiful person and I hope only the very best happens to you. Take care~
1 Samuel 25:6
“And this is what you are to say to my brother (sister!), “Peace to you, peace to your family, peace to all that is yours!”
Sending positive thoughts your way-your readers will be right here waiting for you if you need to take a few personal days.
Take Care, Amy
I hope the best for your family and you will be missed so come back when you are ready!
My thoughts are with you and your family. (((HUG)))
I am keeping you and your family in my prayers. I just found your blog a couple of days ago and I am really enjoying it. Its definitely an inspiration to me in my quest to be upbeat and healthy!
Jenna I am keeping both you and your family in my prayers. I know that with your strong faith and postivity you will be able to get through this difficult time.
xoxo
Jenna, I hope everything is okay! I know what it feels like to be a big people pleaser but take as much time for yourself as you need! Family = first, period. I’ll be thinking about you guys
cant wait to hear about all the great stuff you make tomorrow!
You have all my prayers and support. The fact that, as you say, you are so positive will not be lost! Stay strong (and not just with those ridiculous 8 lb. shred sessions)!
Sending good thoughts and prayers your way.
Oh yes to positivity!
Hope all goes well!
Lots of prayers coming your way. Keeping your family in my thoughts. Don’t be afraid to share though. Being negative is taking something good, and making bad. Taking something that is bad or scary or that you fear and talking about it, well, that’s just being real. It creates bonds between people and makes folks more relate-able.
Anyways, hang in there you.
W&W
You and your family will be in my thoughts!
hi honey. Carrie H had a perfect verse. Thanks, Carrie H! Jenna… you are a delight and a LIGHT every single day. How sad it would be if those who usually ooze joy (like you do) must be silent or not allowed to be a little sad or whatever you feel at the moment. That only makes you more wonderful and real. You are a PEACH in the pie of life, my sweet friend!
Hugs to you and prayers, always! xoxo
Hugs and happy thoughts are coming your way… hope everything’s ok!
Hope everything is okay! Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers!
Lots of prayers for you and your family!
Hang in there. You will definitely be in my prayers stay strong and know that you have a group of readers who would always support you if you needed it. No one is going to get mad at you. Family first!
Hope everything turns out alright!! Just know that I find your blog so amazing to read, it always puts a smile on my face! (and it often makes me hungry, too!)
My thoughts and prayers are with you. be a strong woman!!!
Whatever your going through Jenna we’re all here for you, my thoughts and prayers and definitely with you and your family!
I hope everything works out!
Don’t know what it is that you are going through, but I’m praying for you, and I know the Lord has a plan in it all.
Read Romans 11:33-36. It’s always encouraging to me when I’m going through a rough time, just to trust Him, because He’s amazing.
God Bless!!
Hi Jenna,
I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and well wishes. I hope everything turns out okay.
Positivity definitely pays off. And it’s true, you really are a motivation for others everyday. Hope that everything goes okay. My thoughts & prayers are with you and your family.
p.s. my thoughts are also in suspense for some raw carrot cake!! bah can’t wait! haha
All the best.
keeping you all in my prayers jenna, and hope that everything works out for the best.
sending major blog love your way!
I am so sorry that your family is having a rough time. My prayers are with you all!
I hope everything will be ok with you family. It is truly a talent to stay so positive! I am jealous of the blondies… and whoever bid on your cookies. Take Care!
My thoughts are definitely with you and your family.
Oh Jenna, I hope everything is okay. I’m sending good vibes/thoughts/prayers your way.
*hugs* I hope everything works out and is better in the end!
I will definitely keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers
I hope everything works out in the end and just stay strong!
Jenna…I will lift up you and your family in my prayers tonight…I know how it is. I pray that you feel God’s peace and grace tonight.
If only life were always good and positive. I can’t speak for all your readers, but I certainly understand that life is not always peachy and don’t expect 100% positivity from you (you’re still human). I’m sending lots of ((hugs)) and keeping you in my thoughts.
I’m thinking about you and your family, Jenna!
You are in my thoughts, hang in there.
Jenna, I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I really enjoy reading your posts every day, including your positive and cheery attitude. No one can keep that up 100% of the time…it’s not real life. So, just be yourself, take care of yourself, and it will be all good!
Jenna, you and your family are in my prayers. Just remember, everything happens for a reason and keep your eyes on God!
Hi sweet Jenna! You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. I hope everything gets better.
Thanks for that awesome coconut curry recipe! Have a great night
Fabulous meals! Especially the curry – one of my favs. Will keep you in my prayers.
Thinking of you =) Much love and many thoughts for you and your family!
Hope everything is ok – prayers for your family!
Hey Jenna-I’m sorry to hear things are not looking good on th ehome front :/ I know that can be really rough! I don’t know what’s going on, but know that you and your family is in my thoughts today! PS, I bid on your cookies, really hope I win ‘em!
Jaclyn.
Coconut curry looks delish!
I will keep you and your family in my prayers, Jenna!
I hope everything turns out well at home and I’ll keep your family in my prayers!
I’m also completely jealous of those yummy looking treats!
We love you and are thinking of you!
Hang in there Jenna – I will be thinking of you and your family
hi jenna, I just wanted you to know that your family is in my prayers, you honestly seem like the sweetest person and most positive person, you bring upon a brighter mood everytime I read your blog, but I want you to know that it is okay to not to always hold it together, your human. Stay strong girl!
from a truly thankful 16 year old
I understand how difficult it can be to have family problems happening all while your life is crazy in itself! I truely feel for you, and hope that everything works out! I will pray for you and your family tonight!
i hope everything is okay – just take it one day at a time and do what you need to do to take care of yourself! we’re all here supporting you, no matter what!
My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family!
I’m so sorry to hear your family is going through a rough time
I really respect that you had the courage to talk about it! Your positivism will not be lost, and I hope you and your family will pull through 
There are always little bright spots in every day! (um, hello blackberries and blondies?? 
)
I hope everything is ok. Your positive attitude can get you through anything.
Have a great Tuesday – I’m so jealous you get to go make delicious, raw goodies! Have fun!
you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers, Jenna!!!
Jenna, you and your family are in my prayers and I’m sending positive vibes your way!
Stay Strong. You’re already on my prayer list. You have such a joyful, positive attitude. God will carry you through.
Best,
Kat!
Sending you and your family lots of healing energy.
Sending positive thoughts your way. Hope that whatever is going on in your family life gets resolved soon with a positive outcome!!
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
You really are such a positive person ALL the time and that is something everyone can admire and look up to! With that being said, you and your family are definitely in my prayers and I know you will get through whatever hard time you are going through. STAY STRONG. <3
p.s. I read your blog like every day….I just don’t comment much
i’m thinking of you and your family, jenna! hang in there!
My thoughts are with your family.
*hugs*
Hi Jenna-
I’ve read your blog on and off for a while now– you are very motivating and I honestly love your excitement about food and nutrition. It’s inspiring! I wrote about food today, which is what made me think of you. I don’t think I quite did it with the enthusiasm you do, but nonetheless…
Thanks for your blog, and as someone who’s been doing this blog thing for years now, I think it’s important to know when you need to take a break. Be it for personal, mental, or any other reason, you should feel okay about stepping away. Best of luck with everything, and know that you are doing good work here!
Thanks,
Lesley
Jenna,
I, like some others who commented today, read your blog every day but don’t comment often. I appreciate your optimistic approach to leading a healthy, balanced life. You seem like a truly genuine person. That said, hard times are to be expected sometimes. Stay true to yourself and don’t feel like you need to put on a front for your readers! I will pray for you and your family tonight.
Amanda
Hey Jenna,
I’ve been reading your blog for about a week now and I seriously must say, I admire the dedication you show to your readers. You and your family are in my thoughts + prayers, and I know that a good, inspiring, kind person like you deserves for this conflict to be worked out.
You inspire us all with your positivity : )
Sincerely,
Abbey
Nice lookin pear! The one I ate today looked like it travelled to my lunch pail on a freight train, fell onto the tracks, got smushed, and was put back on the train. I ate it anyway.
Hope your Tuesday is great, Jenna!!
my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Jenna
I will be praying for you and your family. God always seems to know exactly what we need to comfort us. I hope you feel His love during this time.
Katrina
Jenna, I am sorry to hear about your family troubles. Thanks for trusting us to ask for our prayers and thoughts. Everything will turn out okay!
I used to eat those Nature’s Path bars all the time. They are truly delectable! Thanks for the reminder;)
Jenna,
I’ve been reading your blog for some and love how positive and strong-minded you are! I’ve noticed you wearing Lance Armstrong’s yellow wristband, so with that, I’m gonna say, “LiveStrong”!!! My thoughts & prayers go out to you and your family during this rough time.
-Mighty
I too am new to the blog – and really enjoying it! I love the healthy and fit life you lead – very inspiring. hope whatever is going on works itself out soon – but its ok to not be perky and positive every moment – we are all but human, and that’s life for you. hang in there – looking forward to hearing about your cooking lessons!!
Hope everything is okay jenna, you and your family are on my prayers!
oh my goodness, THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH!!!!!! Your kind words go straight to my heart. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
well, i’ve been a longtime reader and this is actually my first comment..
i really hope that everything’s going to be fine.
your blog is a huge inspiration to your readers and even a cheerful and positive person like you can feel negative. so don’t worry.. family always comes first and we all understand.
take care!
I’m sending positive thoughts to you and your family. Family life has it’s ups and downs like any relationship. Love each other through this time and wait for normality to return.
hugs
Jenna,
Hang in there! I’ll be praying for you! Know that we all support you and your family!
I’m sending good vibes your way! I hope everything gets smoothed out with your family. It seems you have a lot of people thinking of you today – it’s because you always share so much of yourself, we want to try to give back. Thanks Jenna! Take whatever time you need, we’ll all be here patiently waiting.
Hope everything turns out well for you and your family! Thinking of you…
Sarah
My thoughts are with you and your family–I hope everything turns out just fine.
Oh dear Jenna, hang in there. I will be keeping your in my thoughts and sending you and your family lots of positive energy.
{{{HUGS}}} and Namaste
Stay strong. I think we all respect your desire to remain private about this matter. You will pull through!
jenna! you and your family are in my prayers! I hope that whatever is going on blows over =)
I know I already posted sending you my prayers. But, I thought you might be able to use a little pick me up too. I just posted my first gluten free giveaway on my gluten free gidget blog. There’s nothing like a little fun to take your mind off of any stress in your life. Good luck, and you remain in my prayers. Remember, it is the times we feel the most alone that God is holding us the closest.
Katrina
I hope whatever is going on with your family works out. You can vent sometimes if you need to (without too much detail for privacy reasons).
I hope that everything works out for you and your family. You seem like a really great girl and you do not deserve to have any loss in your family. I hope that you have a great Easter and that your are able to spend time with your family not only enjoying family time, but good food aswell!!
Jenna i’m so sorry you’re going through family troubles. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope everything gets better soon! xoxo
Lots of love and prayers for you!
I hope all is well with your family! I wish you the best of luck with everything and lots of love!
hey sweet girl! I sent you a fb message earlier. I hope you are having a wonderful day and keeping your chin up! Everything will work out darling! xoxo
Mel
Thoughts & prayers for you and your family.
Blackberries are my favorite fruit to add to oats.
One of my favorite quotes that always helps me during rough times is by one of my Professors who is a documentary filmmaker: “I’m fascinated with people who transcend human frailty and other setbacks to discover their truer, better selves, accessing strength and wisdom previously unknown to them. My films attempt to answer the question ‘How does a person grow?’”
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
Hey Jenna! I’m thinking really good thoughts for you and your family! Hang in there!
Jenna, I am so sorry you and your family are going trough something unpleasent right now. You are such a wonderful person and I hope things get better for you very soon!!
*hugs*
Definitely will keep you and your fam in my thoughts!!!!
I’m so sorry things are not well in your house. My thoughts are with you. You should never worry about being negative though. This is your blog to express your feelings about whatever you want. Your family is a big part of your life and it is natural that something happening would affect you! Be well!