silver lining

Six days ago, I had a second round of extensive oral surgery. Recovery has been challenging with lots of pain and swelling. There is a silver lining though -- I've perfected (by my current needs) the chocolate protein smoothie.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsweetened chocolate almond milk


• 1/2 cup nonfat strained plain greek yogurt


• 1/2 frozen banana


• one scoop chocolate whey protein powder


• 3-6 ice cubes


• splash of brewed coffee (I'm going to start freezing left over morning coffee in ice cube trays)

If you want to blend enough to share or have some left over for later in the day, increase the almond milk to one cup and use a whole banana. When I'm no longer recovering from oral surgery, I'll probably add a little peanut butter.

~♥~

love the skin you're in

Before I left for a trip to DC with my younger sister, I received a bottle of Eucerin's new Daily Skin Balance lotion to try as part of Eucerin's Skin First Movement. I didn't take it with me but I was ready and eager to give it a try once I got home and back into my routine.

Since making some changes in my life such as eating healthier and being more active in order to be fit and healthy as I enter my 50s, one result is that I've begun to show more skin. No, not in a look-at-me-in-my bikini way (not that there's anything wrong with that -- hello, Valerie Bertinelli), but in a wearing sleeveless tops and sundresses way. I've also exposed my body to the elements more than I used to while taking long bike rides. Bottom line is: it's important to take care of your skin as it is your body's natural protective defense against the elements. And, having smooth, healthy looking skin is essential to looking and feeling vibrant.

This is a great product. First, I really like its light, fresh scent. Its mosturization is long-lasting and it never feels sticky or greasy even when it's first applied. I like the body lotion so much, I'm going to purchase the hand creme.

You can learn more about this body lotion and Eucerin's Skin First movement by visiting the Facebook page. Might find some samples and coupons too.

~♥~

How to make the perfect vinaigrette

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