If you know our family, you know we all love smoothies. My husband and I started making them years ago because it was a quick and easy breakfast we could have on our way to work. It has now become part of our morning routine and our 19 month old squeals in excitement when he gets his own! I thought I would share my current go-to with the summer months!

Recipe:

• 1 scoop strawberry protein (we love using Shakeology)
• 1 frozen banana
• 1 cup frozen spinach
• Ice
• 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 1 tablespoon flax-seed
• 2 tablespoons vanilla Greek yogurt

Optional: scoop powdered greens (we use when we have it)

You can really use any fruit with the strawberry powder and it is delicious! My husband uses strawberries and I will alternate with peaches!

What are some of your favorite go-tos? I would love to try them out!

 

Yesterday, I finished my last health appointment of the summer and it made me think of preventative health and what my husband and I are making a priority during this season of life. I have always valued health and the importance of preventative care. I became more knowledgeable of health education during my graduate program, and have continued to stay interested and invested in overall wellness.

I began scheduling all of our appointments in the summer because it was the easiest with teaching. It has now become a tradition to get them all done during those few months, which I am sure my husband is thrilled about. Many times the hardest part is just making the appointments. I thought I would share what preventative steps we are taking at 30 years old and what we will continue to do moving forward.

1.Physical/Wellness Check

This is our standard check-up with our primary doctors. We do the typical height, weight, vitals, physical and blood work for many different tests. Our doctors also ask if there is anything specific we want looked at further following the general exam (you may need to let them know of anything additional when scheduling the appointment so they can make time for that).

**Blood tests can be amazing with seeing if you have any deficiencies and need to supplement in specific areas. I have been extremely low in Vitamin D the past 2 years so I am on a prescribed supplement until my levels reach a normal range, then will switch to an over the counter supplement.  It definitely is eye opening!

2.Optometrist

This is our standard yearly check-up with the common screenings. Our eyes haven’t really changed prescription wise but we like doing the health assessments and getting a new pair of glasses, contacts, or sunglasses!

3. Dentist

We stick to our 6 month cleanings and always have one of them in the summer!

4. Dermatologist

This was the first time we went to a dermatologist per doctor recommendation (due to age). We have the option of doing a general skin check during our annual, but decided to begin in depth annual screenings.

5. OBGYN

I go annually per my doctors recommendation, however I know many doctors will recommend 3-5 years if there is no family history.

 

Additional: If there is anything concerning in your family, I high recommend asking your primary doctor what age is a good time to begin screenings. They will go over everything with you and then you will get an idea of when you need to begin implementing them!

We like to stay on top of the recommended time to go for each appointment so our doctors can have a data base of our records and notice if things change. We also make a conscious effort to take care of ourselves the best way we can. We are in no way perfect at it, but are aware and that is so important!

 

Have a blessed day!

-Jaclyn

I have officially been home with my son for a full year, and wow has it been a season of growth, change, and perspective. If you haven’t read my post on why I chose to leave my career and stay home, check it out here: Deciding To Stay Home

Staying home was not easy in the beginning. I would be lying if I said I didn’t question my decision in the first few months. Leaving my career was a lot harder than expected because it was a huge part of my life and what I felt like was my “identity”. I have quickly learned my identity will never be confined to a role, and that is freeing!

Becoming a new parent is the most incredible and overwhelming season I have experienced. The beginning months are filled with so many emotions, hormones, sleepless nights, anxieties, fears, and unknowns. With that, comes an intense love unlike anything else. It is easy to forget that first time parents are literally figuring out a whole new dynamic overnight. Add another change of leaving a job, and it is a whirlwind!

This past year I have learned so many lessons and take-aways as I have grown into my role as a Momma. Staying home full time has been an eye-opener that I am forever grateful for. It has been the hardest, but most rewarding job…and I wouldn’t trade it for anything! I am excited to see what this next year brings and the wisdom I will gain along the way!

What are your top lessons you have learned in your journey? I would love to know!

Year One Lessons

1.It is okay to be overwhelmed.

2. The anxiety/worry is completely normal. It gets better with time.

3. Nothing is permanent, even though it may feel like it. Just ride it out and do what you can to the best of your ability.

4. Do things in your timing and when you are ready/comfortable.

5. Trust your instincts. You will know your child better than anyone else.

6. Enjoy the milestones, they pass quickly.

7. Its harder for you than for them.

8. Slow down and be present.

9. Interact and play on their level.

10. Respect other’s opinions, but do what is best for your family.

11. Ask for help, especially your partner!

12. Pray.

13. Get out of the house every day.

14. Confide in others who are in similar seasons.

15. Have something of your own.

16. Create structure/routine, but be flexible.

17. Always have snacks/milk on hand (…alot).

18. You won’t be a milk machine forever (if you are nursing).

19. Laugh it off.

20. Most importantly….Take care of you! When you are happy, it will pour out to your littles!