These days are filled with a wide range of emotions, anywhere from uncertainty, fear, anxiety all the way to hope, generosity and compassion. This mix of emotions is normal, but it is important to try and focus on the latter positive emotions as much as we can in the days ahead. Yes, there is a lot to worry about and there is a constant bombardment of negative news, which feeds our anxiety. But, as a way of preserving our emotional health we must find ways to push the angst aside and feed the heart.

I’ve heard so many stories that have lifted me up in the past weeks. From examples like our very own Children’s Hospital of Colorado now accepting patients up to age 30 to help with this crisis, to the story of two California college girls who started a service, Shopping Helpers LA, that matches college students with a senior or at risk citizens to help them with groceries and other errands. There’s lots of hope out there!

While we are in #stayinside quarantine, there is much we can do for our “unit” that we are social distancing with. We must encourage our loved ones to keep up with immune-boosting behaviors that they can control. This includes staying hydrated, getting enough sleep (7-9 hours!) and eating a healthy diet. By preparing and serving nourishing meals and snacks we are helping do our part in keeping our families healthy. Since groceries are not as accessible these days. I wanted to provide you with some recipes that are made from ingredients that you very well may already have in your pantry.

First up, my carrot cake ginger smoothie can be a great morning immune booster. Just five ingredients, most of which you can substitute with similar options. For example, if you don’t have cashews, use any nuts that you have. You can also substitute any kind of milk for the almond milk. Fresh ginger is best, but if you don’t have it, then try a teaspoon of ground ginger. Feel free to replace the half apple with half a banana!

If you’ve stocked up on beans, my easy chickpea bread includes just five ingredients. I like to cut it up into squares so it makes a delicious savory snack or side dish. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can use the ground herb of your choice. While you’ve got the chickpeas out, try my spicy roasted chickpeas. They are easy-to-make and are a great protein and fiber-filled snack at the ready!

If you can get your hands on a pork tenderloin, then cook up my healthy slow cooker BBQ pork. It is tender and tasty and will make a hearty meal for you and your family, and hopefully leftovers as well. My high protein chicken salad is great to have available in the refrigerator for all of your remote learners and workers who need a midday protein boost, but may be eating lunch at different times. I like that it is mayo-free, however, if you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can sub it for ½ cup of mayo. Also if you don’t have all of the ingredients that I add in, just use what you have!

It’s always nice to have something sweet available for your loved ones too. My chocolate-dipped coconut macaroons have just six ingredients. They are clean and light and they will hit the spot. They freeze well too!

Now more then ever, we acknowledge that food and shelter are a great blessing and a privilege. We are so grateful for our grocery stores, grocery store employees, truckers, farmers and delivery people that help us maintain our health and produce food on our tables. May we never take them for granted!

May God bless you and your loved ones during this difficult time.

xox

Susan

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