I have a mulberry tree. It is huge. Therefore, I have tons of mulberries this month which I absolutely LOVE! Besides the fact that they are perfectly sweetened, here are other reasons I love them.

When it comes to holidays, our family always serves buffet style, and everyone brings a dish or two to share. The best way to ensure that healthy choices will be available is to bring them yourself. My girls are making desserts, and I am making two sides. Here is what I will be bringing. Click on the links for the complete recipes. And both can be made the day before!

1. Fajita Quinoa – I’m going to add fresh tomatoes and avocado to the top as well this time.

2. Cool Zucchini, Carrot, and Radish Salad – You can substitute any root vegetable here. This is definitely better once it has had a chance to sit overnight.

Today, March 23rd is National Chia Day. Here is my favorite way to eat chia. It’s my daily treat to myself. I hope you give it a try – it’s high in protein, good fat, and it’s slightly sweet and overall simply delicious!

I love chunky peanut butter, but I want to get more than just peanuts into my daily diet, so I’ve been creating my own chunky nut butter. I make a large batch of this, and then I put a big dollop of it in a jelly mason jar. It is then ready for me to take (along with a spoon) for an easy snack on a busy day. You can use any variety of nuts and seeds and spices.

• 2 cups of organic peanut butter

• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

• 1/4 cup hemp seeds

• 1/4 cup chia seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Method 1:  Place all the ingredients into a food processor and pulse until the nuts and seeds are mixed.

Method 2: Place peanut butter into a large glass bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds and stir. Microwave another 30 seconds and add all the remaining ingredients and stir until mixed.

Store the chunky nut butter in a air-tight container in the refrigerator.