The Guilt-Free Guide to Thanksgiving Leftovers

Thanksgiving might be behind us, but those leftovers are staring at you from the fridge, calling your name. For midlife women who want to stay on track while still enjoying the holiday vibes, there’s no need to feel stuck between indulgence and your health goals. Let’s talk about how you can make the most of those leftovers - deliciously and guilt-free.

First things first: balance is your best friend. Instead of loading your plate with just stuffing and pie, try mixing in fresh sides. Pair those hearty leftovers with crunchy veggies or a crisp salad. This not only lightens the meal but leaves you feeling energized, not sluggish.

Portion size matters, too. Smaller servings let you savor every bite without overdoing it. Focus on truly enjoying the flavors - you’ll be surprised how much more satisfied you feel when you slow down and make each forkful count.

And let’s get creative! Leftovers don’t have to feel like reruns. That turkey can transform into a protein-packed salad or a cozy soup. Roasted veggies? Toss them into a nourishing grain bowl. It’s all about keeping your meals fresh and avoiding that post-Thanksgiving slump.

By taking these simple steps, you’ll feel proud of your choices, stay on track, and be ready to tackle the week ahead. Who says leftovers can’t work in your favor?

Feeling Stuck? Reflect on What’s Already Working!

Life gets busy, and it’s so easy to overlook all the little victories you’re racking up every single day. When you’re juggling family, work, and trying to take care of yourself, it’s tempting to fixate on big, far-off goals—like losing that last 10 pounds or sticking to a perfect routine. But here’s the truth: the magic is in the small wins.

Did you carve out time for a workout this week? Show up on time for something important? Take even a small step to prioritize yourself - like a 10-minute walk, going to bed earlier or joining my Chilly Challenge for December? Those seemingly "small" things aren’t small at all. They’re the foundation of success, and they deserve to be celebrated.

Progress is not about being perfect; it’s about consistency. You’re going to miss a workout or make a less-than-perfect meal choice. That’s okay. What matters is that you keep showing up, making small, intentional choices every day. That’s how real, lasting change happens.

And here’s a little secret: reflection is a superpower. Taking a moment to pause and recognize what you haveaccomplished—no matter how small—keeps you motivated and builds confidence. It’s proof that you’re capable and moving forward, even if progress feels slow.

So, what are you proud of this week? Think about it. Write it down. Share it with someone (I’d love to hear it!). Those wins, no matter how tiny they seem, are worth celebrating.

Next steps?
If you’re ready to build on those wins and keep moving toward your goals, let’s chat. Comment below or reach out via email. I also offer FREE 20 minute consult calls. Schedule one here. Sometimes, a little extra support makes all the difference.

Staying on Track This Thanksgiving: Simple Tips for a Balanced Day

Thanksgiving is almost here, and I know it can feel tricky when it comes to staying on track with your health goals. But don’t worry - I’ve got your back! The key is balance. With a little preparation and some mindful strategies, you can enjoy the holiday and feel great afterward.

First things first, remember Thanksgiving is about more than just the food - it’s about gratitude and connection. So, go into the day with a mindset of enjoying yourself without overdoing it. Savor each bite of your favorite dishes slowly and stop when you feel satisfied. It’s all about feeling good, not stuffed. And if you're hosting, don’t be afraid to ask for help! Delegating tasks can ease some stress and keep you focused on the enjoyment of the day.

Another great way to balance out all the delicious food is by getting moving! It doesn’t need to be anything complicated - just something fun. A Turkey Trot (even a walk), a family football game, or a casual walk after dinner can help with digestion and keep your energy up. Think of it as quality time with your loved ones, while also staying active.

When it comes to the meal, here’s a little tip: start your plate with protein and veggies. Fill up on turkey, green beans, or Brussels sprouts, and once you’ve covered your nutritional bases, enjoy your favorite treats. If pie is your thing, save room for that instead of sampling everything on the table.

If you're sticking to intermittent fasting, don't stress - just adjust as needed. You can modify your fasting window to fit in with Thanksgiving dinner. When it’s time to break your fast, choose something protein-packed to set you up for steady energy. Think eggs with avocado toast or a Pumpkin Protein Smoothie.

At the end of the day, Thanksgiving is just one day, and what matters most is how you feel overall. Focus on being present, enjoying the company around you, and savoring the moments. If you need any extra tips or have questions, feel free to drop them in the comments. I’m here to help!

Let’s make this Thanksgiving the perfect blend of celebration and staying true to our health goals.

Get Moving This December with the Chilly Challenge 2024!

As winter arrives and days get colder, staying active can be a serious challenge. But what if you had a fun way to keep moving and stay accountable all month? Enter the Chilly Challenge 2024 - a month-long movement challenge designed to keep you motivated and connected in December!

What is it?
This year, the Chilly Challenge is all about logging movement minutes - whether you're walking, running, dancing, lifting, or anything in between! No need to break personal records or compete with others. This year, we’re all one big team, working together toward a shared goal of staying active, energized, and connected. Every minute you log contributes to our team’s overall total, so let’s make December a month of movement!

How Does It Work?

1. Sign Up – Register for the challenge (here) and join our community of motivated movers!
2. Log Your Minutes – Starting December 1, keep track of your movement minutes, and add them to our team’s spreadsheet each day using our Movement Log.
3. Join the Group – Connect with fellow challengers in our Facebook group, where we’ll share tips, cheer each other on, and keep motivation high!
4. Stay Inspired – Share your progress on social media with #ChillyChallenge2024 and encourage friends to join in on the fun.

Why Join the Challenge?
Not only will you stay on track through the holidays, but you’ll also get to move with a community that’s rooting for you every step (or squat!) of the way. By the end of the month, you’ll feel fitter, more energized, and ready to take on 2025 feeling your best. Let’s make December a movement celebration - one minute at a time!

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with These Low-Sugar Fall Treats

As the weather cools down and fall flavors start calling, many of us find ourselves craving comforting, seasonal treats. But if you’re trying to keep your sugar intake in check, finding options that feel indulgent without the sugar overload can be a challenge. That’s why I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite low-sugar fall treats that are both delicious and family-approved. These recipes bring all the cozy flavors of autumn without the added sugar spike, making them perfect for anyone focused on balanced eating - especially during a season known for sugary temptations.

Here are a few treats that taste indulgent but keep the sugar to a minimum. These recipes are simple, wholesome, and packed with ingredients that nourish, so you can feel good sharing them with your family (or saving a few for yourself!).

Pumpkin Oat Cookies

If you’re a pumpkin lover, these cookies are a must-try! Made with pumpkin puree and oats, they’re full of fiber and nutrients while still tasting like a treat. You can sweeten them with a bit of honey or maple syrup for that hint of sweetness without overdoing it. They’re perfect for lunchbox treats or a quick afternoon snack, especially when you want something that feels like a classic fall dessert.

Apple Nachos

This one is so easy, yet so satisfying! Slice up some crisp apples and drizzle them with nut butter (almond and peanut butter work well here). Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top, add some crushed nuts for a bit of crunch, and you have yourself a delicious, nutritious snack that feels like a treat. It’s a fun way to make fruit feel special and flavorful, and it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.

Sweet Potato Brownies

Yes, you read that right - brownies made with sweet potatoes! Mashed sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and creamy texture to these brownies, making them rich and fudgy without a lot of sugar. They’re the perfect answer to a chocolate craving, with the added benefit of extra fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the sweet potatoes. This is one recipe you’ll want to keep around when you need a healthier chocolate fix.

These recipes are great for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of fall without the sugar crash, and they’re proof that you don’t have to sacrifice taste for health. 

So, if want more low sugar treat ideas, click here for these and more tasty recipes that your family will love delivered to your inbox!

Fall Veggies That Boost Your Mood, Muscles & Metabolism

Fall Veggies to Boost Your Mood, Hormones, and Fat Loss!

Fall brings some incredible seasonal veggies that aren’t just tasty - they also pack a powerful punch for your mood, metabolism, and muscle health. Adding these to your diet can help keep you balanced and energized as the days get shorter. 

Pumpkin muffins

Here are three must-have veggies to enjoy this season:

🎃 Pumpkins: For a Boost in Mood and Energy

Pumpkins aren’t just for carving! Packed with Vitamin A, they help support both your immune system and your mood - just in time for the cooler months. Pumpkins are also high in fiber and low in calories, which promotes fullness without spiking blood sugar. The Vitamin A in pumpkins supports thyroid health, which is essential for maintaining energy and a healthy metabolism, both key to feeling your best. Try roasted pumpkin cubes as a cozy side or add pureed pumpkin to smoothies for a creamy, nutrient-packed treat.

🍠 Sweet Potatoes: Nutrient-Dense and Great for Fat Loss

Sweet potatoes are another fall staple that’s rich in fiber and Vitamin C, helping to manage cravings and steady blood sugar while boosting your immunity. With natural carbs and antioxidants, they provide sustained energy and can even assist in fat metabolism, as Vitamin C helps produce carnitine, a compound that aids in fat burning. Enjoy them baked, mashed, or in a warming fall soup for a satisfying, energy-supporting dish.

🥗 Leafy Greens: Relax and Recharge

Fall greens like spinach and kale are ideal for relaxation and muscle health. Rich in magnesium and calcium, they support muscle relaxation, improve sleep quality, and help manage cortisol levels (the stress hormone), which is vital for keeping mood and energy stable. These greens also support muscle function and bone health, crucial for staying active and strong. Add them to soups, stews, or sauté with garlic for a quick, nutrient-rich side.

Take advantage of fall’s bounty to fuel your body and lift your spirits 🍂

Want More Ideas?

From roasting to blending, fall veggies are versatile and nutrient-dense. If you're looking for simple, delicious recipes to include these seasonal superfoods in your meals, check out my Free Fall Dinners Guide, sign up for my weekly newsletter and follow me on Instagram!