Creating a new veggie burger wasn’t a priority this past week. So the veggie burger challenge will have to be neglected until next week.
Luckily (for the sake of convenience), I still have a few of these babies leftover in the freezer. They just as good (if not better) when warmed up and thrown atop a veggie bowl.
So why was the veggie burger challenge left behind? Well, I was at the University of Chicago Hospital all week long. As you may know, my brother was having surgery. It was the worst and hopefully the last.
While there, I realized something that I consider pretty significant. Every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day.
Even when you’re having the worst of days, it’s so important to step back and find something good. Yes, the optimistic side in me is showing. But I honestly believe in the importance of positive thinking.
When times are hard, it gets me through. A laugh, a smile, beautiful weather, a tasty treat – no matter what it is that makes you happy – stop and appreciate it.
When the days are great and life is flying by – I often take the little things for granted. They are simply there – just another part of my day.
It’s when times get tough that the little things become so crucial and they’re once again on my radar.
With that, here are some of the goods from the week – whether big or small, they helped me through.
Cupcakes. On a day-to-day basis, I avoid emotional eating. Rather than pick up something sweet, I take a walk or call a friend. But sometimes a cupcake is just what the doctor ordered. And by the doctor, I mean my brain.
Just look at those vanilla bean specks. Yep, that’s just what my brain ordered.
On one particularly difficult day, my Mom and I took a breather to walk around the University of Chicago campus.
It was pretty spectacular on one of the first warm days of the week. Also, just what my brain needed. Fresh air and beautiful surroundings.
After a week of hospital food, this smoothie was heaven.
Spinach, kale, pineapple, banana, vega vanilla protein, and unsweetened almond milk. This was definitely a good. My body was craving something clean and this fit the bill.
On Sunday, I enjoyed a leisurely brunch with my sister and Mom.
My coffee mug was filled no less than 3 times and a huge Greek-style omelet (feta, tomatoes, and spinach) with a side of sweet potato fries graced my plate.
Hit the spot.
And of course, I can’t forget Pinkberry. Deemed the “original tart frozen yogurt,” this place is certainly preceded by its reputation for the best froyo around.
This was my first time having frozen yogurt in a cone (a bowl is not conducive to walking around downtown) and it did not disappoint. In fact, their tart was the best I’ve ever had!
And that’s saying something because I’ve had my fair share of frozen yogurt.
And finally, getting my booty moving by taking a walk around the track with the Chicago skyline in the background.
[Rocking my strong is the new beautiful shirt.]
Not that is a good I’ll take any day.
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