Tasty Tuesday: Patriotic Snacks

I'm so ready to celebrate Independence Day, it isn't even funny. So, I'm doing some research for fourth of July snacks to bring to the party. Want some ideas? Here you go! Thanks, internet (hehe).

American Flag Fruit

Easy enough. Just wash, cut up and assemble blueberries, bananas and strawberries. And align to mimic the American flag. Healthy, easy and perfect for a July 4th celebration.

Red & Blue Ice Cubs

Fill your ice tray with washed and cut blueberries and strawberries. Freeze. Serve with your favorite clear cocktail or white wine! Festive enough, right?

4th July Appetizer Skewers

Assemble Kalamatta olives, cubed cheddar cheese and cherry tomatoes. Done.

Have a great Fourth of July! Be safe, wear sunscreen and have fun!

Motivation Monday: Laugh

I'm back! And I feel like bringing you some laughs. Laughter is the best medicine, effecting your body in positive ways. Curious? Here's how!

• Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after a good chuckle.
• Laughter boosts the immune system. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.
• Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.
• Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

And there are mental health benefits, such as easing anxiety and/or fear, relieving stress, improving one's mood, and enhancing resilience.

What about social? Laughter strengthens relationships, makes you more attractive, enhances teamwork, defuses conflict and promotes bonding.

So, turn that frown upside down. Need a little inspiration? You're welcome!

1. Interested in learning how animals eat their food? And then there is the Canadian version. Silly kids! =)
2. What about animals just being animals? Here you go. And how about cats being jerks? Wanna kill 30-minutes? And because I love cats, here is another one.
3. And I love the bad lip reading videos. Hilarious. Here's one. And because I love the Hunger Games. For some political fun.