Be the Difference

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It's the unofficial start of summer 2015, with the Memorial Day weekend here. Planning any picnics or cookouts with friends or family? Good chance...

A start-of-summer gathering could include all kinds of summer standards like burgers and dogs, macaroni salad and any number of desserts which may be less-than-healthy. If you're stocking a power pantry at home, maybe you're facing the opportunity to extend some of your healthy choosing to those you'll see this holiday. This might be a chance to not be pushy or obnoxious about your wellness lifestyle, but to share something completely normal which is also a healthy choice.

Could you take a veggie tray, or fresh fruit salad? Or offer to bring some skinless chicken breasts for the grill? Or maybe something creative like a quinoa salad with peppers, onions and olives to reside alongside the potato salad? How about some hummus and rice crackers instead of a ring bologna and cheese tray? Or a great dessert option like a big bowl of washed and plucked grapes?

Jen and I are 5 years into our wellness lifestyle, and while we've only been serious for about 3 years, we're in the habit of encouraging healthy choices and sharing those with others when we can. Maybe this is a good time for you to share a healthy dish at a picnic or family gathering. It doesn't have to be anything unique or uber-good-for-you... it can be something simple and tasty which just happens to be healthy too. Take this holiday opportunity to be the difference that you're committed to in your own life.

By the Way

Even something simple like plain potato or corn chips can be a healthier choice. Don't get me wrong, these don't stand up to a nice spinach salad or grilled veggie kabobs, but for a salty snack that isn't specifically unhealthy, its an option. Steer clear of the crazy flavors which bring along hydrogenated oils, strange preservatives and MSG... those aren't a power pantry choice.