Pinterest is a wealth of information! Especially when it comes to anything food and home ;)
After feeling slightly blocked on meal planning, I remembered how beneficial Pinterest is for some inspiration!
This is an awesomely, easy and delicious recipe!
Chop up some carrots and celery, throw into the bottom of the slowcooker. Add in some chicken broth and a can of cream of chicken soup (I opt for the lower sodium option). I also added in a drop of Basil and Summer Savory to the liquid. I put two chicken breasts on top of the mixture.
Cook on low for 6-7 hours, when there is approx 20 min left pull the chicken out and shred it, adding back into the mixture with 1 cup of peas and 1 cup of corn to finish cooking. Thicken to your liking if needed. We kept it gluten free by using cornstarch!
As I was preparing our dinner, I listened to Joel Osteen’s podcast – “Stay In The Game”. Although I wouldn’t consider myself religious, because we do not practice a specific religion, I do live a spiritual life and find listening to Joel uplifting, motivational and reflective.
“Im hurting, but Im still here” – many of us can relate to this at some point in our life, when we need to “stay in the game” rather than sitting on the sidelines. What really jumped out at me was this:
“Take Your Scars and Turn Them Into Stars” ~ Joel Osteen
You can find inspiration anywhere… just open your eyes and ears to see and listen <3
The other night as I left work a wee bit later than normal, the sky was bright and blue, the sun shining and lowering in the sky. I asked my husband to take me on a photo tour, a wee road not far from home. With incredible views.
As the weather cools, the sun sets earlier, our body’s find a new natural rhythm. Fall is so unique and beautiful. When nature shows us just how breathtaking it is, to let go!
Everyday we are given a gift. Its up to us to appreciate its true value.
Sometimes we don’t feel it, or its a dark and dreary day out, harder to get moving – Im totally leaning into that today. Do I have things to do, yup. Have I accomplished some, yup. Do I feel I am doing what my body needs, definitely! Its in these moments that I remind myself, to go with the flow. Honestly, resistence can be healthy, if you feel resistance honor yourself. Today my body needed more sleep, so I honored that. I still honored my waking and having a morning routine, opting for a nap later.
Photography allows unique individual expression, in any moment and subject. Which is why I find this passion so intriguing. While looking back through photos from September, I found this beauty. I plan to have it printed on canvas BIG for my office. The colours and orbs are something I previously overlooked.
Sometimes the magic is right in front of us, and sometimes it takes some discovery, a journey <3!
I love lasagna, but at one time it was an intimidating dish to even think about making, until I did and realized how simple it actually is!
This cool fall weather is perfect lasagna weather! Even better is when the tomato sauce is made from scratch as well with big beautiful, fresh tomatoes!
I started by roasting the tomatoes and half a big onion in the oven at 400 degrees for approx 45 min. I then turned the oven off and left the tray in for about 1 hour.
The skin on the tomatoes peeled right off! I cut the center out of the tomatoes and added into a big pot. Chopped up the onion amd added it in as well. I used my pampered chef tool to break apart the tomatoes and then scooped it all into the blender to get rid of the big chunks of tomatoes (more kid friendly 😉).
While blending I added in 1 drop of basil, one drop of oregano (it’s super strong so 1 drop in this batch was perfect!), garlic powder and parsley. Blended all up and then back in the pot, added 1 can of tomato paste and left to simmer for a couple hours.
I preheated the oven to 375, and then built the lasagna! I used lactose free cottage cheese and marble cheese for the lasagna. I added 2 eggs into the cottage cheese mixture.
Before I added the ground beef into the sauce, I put a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Then added in the gluten free lasagna noodles. For the baking dish I used, I full box was exactly the right amount of noodles! It’s a large dish and I did 2 layers.
Sauce, noodles, cottage cheese mixture, shredded cheese and then meat sauce. Then noodles again, cottage cheese mixture, shredded cheese and then topped with the rest of the meat sauce and the rest of the cheddar marble cheese.
Cooked at 375 covered for 30 min, uncovered for 10-15 min and let stand for 5-10 before cutting into.
It was DELICIOUS! Best lasagna yet! The kids both loved it, my husband loved it and I was quite proud of it 🙌!
Its the small daily habits that begin to form our day, our evening and our nights. I have always considered myself a night hawk, loved staying up late and sleeping in the next day.
Until I became a mother. Which was honestly a dream come true. I, however don’t think I completely realized just how much it would completely change my life. Like we are talking turned upside down, on my head, change. The best change actually.
As the kids were growing up, my camera became an extension of my hand. When our son was approaching 1 yr old, I took the leap, while on mat leave, and purchased my first DSLR camera. I will never forget the feeling of taking my first photos with it, playing with the light, learning the aperture and composition. The best part though… being able to take a freeze frame shot of my baby on he move! Priceless.
However what I also remember is the judgment I felt and heart that first time I pulled my camera out at a mommy and me playdate. I purposely didn’t make a big to-do about my new camera, knowing I would hear comments about how much it cost or if it was actually needed. Psychologically, this is a feeling I had a hard time shaking. Although it was my own money, that I had saved up with, purposely budgeting as a new parent. Ive always loved number crunching. I purposely planned for this purchase, which truly ignited my heart. Yet, hearing people’s reactions I felt ashamed of what I saved up for and dreamed about.
In a time where many are living with immediate gratification. If you want something, you get it whether its going to the store or online, or even whether or not you actually have the money to “get it”. Its really shifted the way our society lives. I have fallen in to this trap myself. Picking up my phone to take photos, even though I truly prefer the quality of my big camera (which is a beautiful upgrade since my first DSLR). Taking photos with a phone to post on a social media app. For that immediate reaction of comments, praise or questions. Yet, when you get down to the nitty gritty, that’s not what gives me true satisfaction.
At a time in our life when we have literally been forced to take a step back, its been met with mixed emotions and responses. Some people have taken this opportunity to take a step back, to get more in touch with themselves, their family, their home life. Others, unfortunately have had their desire for immediate satisfaction intensified, with little compassion or understanding.
As I sat in bed this morning, I woke naturally before 6am and embraced my morning. Journaling, listening to a couple 45 min podcasts, chatting with my husband, enjoying my Turmeric Tea. I was reminded of this feeling of immediate gratification, can the world actually be sustainable with this type of thought process? Are people actually, truly happy? If you want something immediately, it may not be necessary or an emergency, but you feel you need whatever right that moment, and if the need cannot be met, you sometimes hastily move on. Where is the loyalty? Loyalty first to ourselves.
Thinking that we must have an immediate response for whatever it might be, in that exact moment, is completely unrealistic and instantly sets ourselves up in a scarcity mindset.
I think of years ago, before I had a digital camera, I loved taking photos and would have to wait to get them developed to truly enjoy them. Patience truly is a virtue. Yet its far too often an unappreciated trait.
Or calling someone, how did we live before cell phones? They have completely changed our life, many for the better, but in reality is it entirely better? I do appreciate being able to be in contact whenever, but I certainly should not have the attitude that just because I called or messaged someone that they must get back to me instantly. That’s simply unrealistic and disrespectful.
True satisfaction in life comes from within. Isn’t based on what or who says it should be. Its based on our each individual life, our each individual interests, hobbies, home and people we choose to surround ourselves with. Its a choice we make every single day.
Feeling judged, unappreciated, demanded upon isn’t a good feeling. Most times the person inflicting these unrealistic views are completely out of touch with themselves. Its not “normal” to expect something immediately, and yet society is teaching that this is what is expected. Working in the service industry I see this all the time as well. I am truly grateful for the appreciative abundant people I get to work with, and bless those whose expectations I am not able to meet, as they move on to find someone who possibly can.
If 2020 has taught us anything, its that its ok to take a step back, to learn to be first satisfied with our self, before imposing any expectations or judgments on anyone else. That the only person in charge of our happiness and growth, is our self. Most of all, living in absolute truth and honesty. Wouldn’t that be incredible if out of all of this, this is the one thing that came to light for all. What a peaceful world we would live in. Truly.
We create our happiness, which is also not at the expense of anyone else!
Journal exercise…
What truly ignites my soul?
How can I begin again?
Why does their opinion really matter?
What do I believe deep down?
How can I re-teach myself patience?
What is true satisfaction to me?
This morning as I was listening to my 2nd podcast, my husband had just left for a call, it hit me. Stop thinking about it. You know all those to-do lists running through your head. Do at least one thing morning and night that’s for you, truly for you that ignites your heart and you feel deep satisfaction in doing. Without a doubt, for me its my camera and getting out in nature. Even on a dreary, overcast day. So flowing with the inspiration I got dressed, jumped in my vehicle and went off to find some fall colours to photograph. Hint… beauty is all around us, you just have to be open to seeing it.
Those weeds on the side of the road, the ducks on the pond, complete peace and quiet down by the river. For an hour I scouted out some spots around town, remember how I used to do this when the kids were young, for my “me time”. Something I haven’t been doing as much of lately. Something I am making a priority in my life again. Because its what gives me true satisfaction. The experience. Not just the result.
A glimpse into my “satisfaction” this morning! Out for a walk at 830am enjoying the fresh air with my creative eye! Check out more at http://www.flickr.com/zmijaourmomentsintime
As mother nature has quickly moved us from summer like weather into the cool fall weather, it’s important for each of us to be educated and empowered in our own homes.
For years, as long as I can remember my go to was take a pill, whether it was prescribed by the doctor or over the counter.
What I didn’t know then, is that with many health challenges we experience, over the counter products for cold, flu etc are not safe to be taking! Even after my thyroid diagnosis in 2005, I still did not know the seriousness of taking over the counter medications when you have a thyroid illness. Something that is most times printed on the box, but let’s be real, the majority of consumers do not flip that box over to read it!
In 2014 I felt a very strong urge to explore natural options and we have never turned back! This quick 5 min video shares what we currently use in our home and have been using for the past 1 – 6 years for our mental and physical health.
I encourage people to base what they use first on HOW they feel, next on WHAT products they use, don’t be afraid to ask questions, to push for answers. I have learned that the best way to live a happy and healthy life is basing it on how you FEEL and not being afraid to question the norm.
I used to, for a good part of my life, over 30 years, relied on modern medicine alone. Big pharma markets to various ages, we are often led to believe this is the only way, the only products that will “make us better” or help our illness.
Nature knows best!
I am a living and breathing example of how holistic health is a true blessing in our life.
In combination with our cupboard and wall, we also actively use Reiki energy treatment in our home as well. I have completed my Reiki Level 2 Certification. I am confident that this training (my level 1 I completed late 2016) had a hand in my physical health transformation which truly began in 2017! When the weight literally began melting off me and thankfully has remained off!
As we approach the end of 2020, a year of discovery in itself, this is the perfect opportunity to explore what health options are truly right for you and your family, household.
If you are curious about any of the products we use in our home, I would be happy to help with any essential oil related questions. You can purchase doTERRA Essential Oils through my online shop, we purposely choose the highest quality essential oils for our home which are safe and extremely effective! The products from our local holistic store can also be purchased online from The Eco Den or pop into her cute shop downtown!
Empowered health is educated health, when we know better we can do better! Plus, we feel better too!!!
This is my bathroom counter! Which honestly should have been included in my home wellness tour, as we have these tools all over our home readily available 💕
Super easy grab and go, packed with nutrients! Bonus… it reminds me of cookie dough! 🤤 For my FODMAP friends there is a honey friendly recipe added below!
Pam’s Energy Balls
4 cups oats
1 cup ground flax
1 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp hemp hearts
1 cup honey
1 cup natural peanut butter
1/2 cup chocolate chips
2 scoops protein shake (optional)
I use my small food processor to pulsates the oats to get them into an easier workable size! Then mix all the dry ingredients into the mixer and begin adding in the honey and then the peanut butter!
Once everything is well blended, use a baller if you want your balls the same size. Put in the fridge to harden. This recipe makes 30 balls!
They keep wonderful in the fridge for the week and back up in the freezer! 😉
We used all gluten free ingredients! I love that I can literally just grab and go with these! A nice quick boost! I love grabbing one as I leave in the morning for work!
These are the BEST after being in the fridge for a couple days… even my husband is enjoying them!
RECIPE UPDATE!
I adapted the recipe with less honey to be more FODMAP friendly.
Approx 1-1/2 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup coconut oil (full fat)
Mix peanut butter, honey and coconut oil together until smooth. Then add in:
2 cups of gluten free oats (pulsates smaller or as is)
Approx 1 cup flax meal
Approx 1/2-3/4 cup hemp hearts
1 tbsp chia seeds
Optional – 1/4-1/2 cup chocolate chips
Blend together well, make into balls and cool/freeze.
Everyone learns at the rate they need to, with various life lessons influencing their journey. For me it was my health, but even more so it was my kids. I knew for years my health was in jeopardy, it was affecting my physical and mental health.
Empowered Wellness is a journey and one I am grateful to be on. I learn every single day – and I am quick to be sure my kids know that. No matter my age, I will always be learning!
This week my BOGO Box arrived from doTERRA filled with 5 oils I knew about and 5 surprise free oils for our collection. When I opened the box last night, I sat down to review the emotional uses of each oil. There was one in the collection that I admittedly haven’t used in a very long time. As I wrote down the oils and listed each of them and their emotional uses, I felt even more reassured with my wellness journey.
doTERRA purposely selected oils with physical AND emotional uses that will raise our vibration and boost our health as we are currently in the winter of 2020.
Ylang Ylang – Inner Child
Siberian Fir – Aging and Perspective
Oregano – Humanity and Non-Attachment
On Guard – Protection
Breath – Breath
Peppermint – Buoyant Heart
Copaiba – Unveiling
Adaptiv – Adaptability
Northern Escape – *new oil blend* Piney, Fresh and Clean. Contains Black Spruce, Siberian Fir, Balsam Fir, Lavandin, Cedarwood, Cypress, Hinoki, Frankincense, Nootka, Cananga and Clove.
Air X – *new oil blend* Calming and Energizing. Citrusy with a faint woody and herbal tones. Contains Litsea, Tangerine, Grapefruit, Frankincense and Cardamom
Check out those emotional uses… at this time in the world when we are all experiencing a change in our life. Think of how ALL of these oils can begin to shift that for you, even without thinking of the physical health benefits, lets chat about the emotional uses. Putting one or a combination of these oils into the diffuser and how it will shift your home or office. Do an experiment, select 1-3 oils and put them in the diffuser and watch the mannerisms of the people in your space, also paying attention to yourself. Diffusing oils is a beautiful way to shift the mental state and freshen, scent, neutralize and cleanse the air in a natural way (without toxic chemicals – read the labels of various other products you may have previously used).
One thing we have been doing in our own home is purposely shifting our mental and physical state, for each of us whether its in our main living areas or in each of our bedrooms. This is something that, although the world feels uncertain, slightly worrysome or fearful at times, within the walls of our home is purely about whoever lives there. Focusing on what IS within our control and how we can support our mental health is important, as when our mental health is thriving, our physical health does as well!
As Ive traveled down this journey of life, I feel I need to re-introduce myself to my community. With this re-introduction I am also shifting my focus and am really excited about this!
My name is Pam, also known as Pamela to some family members. I am the artist and architect of my life. A Mom, Wife, Photographer, Healer, Biz Woman living the Oily Life!
In 2016 I began sharing my lifestyle with others, focusing mainly on the essential oils and holistic benefits to removing toxins and chemicals from our lifestyle for our physical and emotional health. What I have ultimately learned, is that although these oils are a true benefit to our complete whole body and mind health, to truly make a shift in your life it needs to be a conscious lifestyle shift which encompasses more than our beautiful oils. Its also embracing yourself deeply and completely for who you are and the life you choose to live.
In early 2017 I made a choice to be more conscious. After years of health challenges and road blocks, many of which I experienced in silence. I made a choice to BE in my life rather than just going through the motions living it.
The power of thought is incredibly transforming. One I continue to learn about more and more each day.
I understand that although I love food, not all food is loved by my body. The importance of listening to ourself, it’s incredible what we can learn when we get quiet, feel and are conscious in our life.
What better time than now!
I feel a re-introduction is long over due, because I am a completely different person than I was back in the summer of 2014 when I leaned into that urge of ‘what if natural health was the answer’… unknown to me at the time, what the exact question was!
As a mother, the most important “position” I will ever have, I have also learned it’s easy to allow life to consume us. When in reality, we should consume life, we should make the choices and enjoy the process. Not feel vice versa.
I am picking up my camera more, putting pen to paper, allowing my creative juices to flow, learn new life processes, educate through reading and discussing. Focusing on my lane, as a friend pointed out!
This is a time of growth and expansion. To pull slightly within and honor your souls whispers.
I feel truly grateful for the lifestyle we have crossed paths with. For living empowered within our home for our mental and physical health. Knowing that I have truly shaped my outcome by the subtle, significant shifts over time that have resulted in massive long lasting results. A lifestyle that is magic. Where I could fall back one day and shift into realignment the next. Where it’s ok to be human, to do better because I know better. To be gracious, compassionate and conscious.
I feel passionate about helping people realize their own true value in their own life. The power they actually hold within their lifestyle and being the best person they can be. Being led by the importance of self care. One aspect in our life that often is too easily overlooked and under appreciated. Been there done that, who else gets daily reminders?! For me its number sequences or songs! Oooh sometimes animals too!
This week especially I’ve felt a very strong pull to make shifts. To pull back in some areas of my life to allow re-growth in other areas.
To be truly authentic in all that I am, in a way that feels totally me!
Welcome back to my blog!
I’m excited to share more of what I feel is important to living a conscious, compassionate lifestyle! 🥰
My husband and I went on a Fall colours tour this afternoon🍁🍂 I am so grateful for this warm fall weather to continue enjoying the nature!
Shot with my Canon 5DMIII Mums with the 100mm f2.8L Macro Lens and Landscape with my 24-105mm f4L Lens.
As fall transitions, it’s a reminder for us to check our healthy habits. Over the summer it’s easy to let things slide. I also take a lot of photos during the spring and summer especially. Something that truly lights me up, the pure enjoyment, as well capturing memories.
