The Art of the Mason Jar

Convenience plays a large role in my daily routine. I joke sometimes that my purse is a suitcase, because it is large and in charge! I just like to feel prepared. Every morning I "get ready for the day." This means regardless of the day, rain or shine, plans or no plans, I always make an effort to get myself together, because it makes me feel good. Do something everyday that makes you feel good. Maybe it's an early morning spin class or a meditation yoga class. By starting your day off right, you're setting the tone for your day, and I promise you, it will be a good day if you make it a good day! 

Being prepared makes all the difference when it comes to healthy food choices. Between our busy daily routines and juggling X, Y and Z throughout the day, sometimes running to the nearest fast casual restaurant or deli to pick up a bite to eat is easier and more convenient than prepping ahead. Being prepared with sometime to eat before you become starving and want to eat everything in sight makes all the difference to your health and nutrition. 

I've found that using mason jars to prep food ahead and organize for a couple of days makes a really easy "grab and go" in your own home. Not to mention, people will comment because it actually looks pretty cool too! 

If your mornings are busy prep a greek yogurt berry bowl in a mason jar and take it to go. For lunch or a snack, layer power veggies in a mason jar with a little dressing on the side. Simple Easy and nutritious!

#1. Morning Glory Bowl

1/2 cup blueberries

1/2 cup strawberries

1/2 cup 0% Greek Yogurt

1/4 cup all natural (gluten-free optional) granola

1 teaspoon pure honey

Directions - Layer ingredients in a mason jar, drizzle honey on top and enjoy. 

#2. You're a Peach

1 small peach diced

1/2 cup 0% Greek Yogurt

1/4 cup pistachios

1 teaspoon all natural honey

Directions - Layer all ingredients in mason jar and enjoy. 

Veggie Jars

Create your bowl 1/4 cup each.

Corn

Carrots

Quinoa

Black Beans

Kidney Beans

Celery

Tomatoes

Lima Beans

Mushrooms

Kale

Arugula

Lettuce

Dressing: 

2 Tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar

2 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar

1 teaspoon dijon mustard

salt and pepper to taste

Directions - Layer selected veggies in a mason jar and mix in dressing when you're ready to eat and enjoy!

"Fall in Love with Taking Care of Yourself"

Kid's Eat Free: Arte Cafe UWS Celebrates 25 Years!

As an expecting UWS mommy to be, I want to welcome all moms and kids for a very special "Kids Eat Free" promotion my husband and I are launching at Arte Cafe on the UWS - 106 W 73rd St. This offer is available Monday - Thursday, just show the below special offer! 

It's a wonderful way to mingle with other moms and get to know each other more, not to mention great food and a cozy environment is an additional plus! 

When I moved to NY from CA nine years ago, I quickly discovered that it's a big, little city. Arte Cafe is a warm and welcoming neighborhood spot that became my "go-to." Years later, my husband renovated the restaurant for our beautiful wedding day. Arte Cafe is now celebrating 25 years and still remains a neighborhood favorite! It's a special place on the UWS, with two private rooms and families have celebrated the most meaningful special occasions with us.

We all have to eat, so why not dine with us? We're so neighborhood friendly we even have a stroller valet! Come enjoy a great afternoon with us! I look forward to seeing you there. 

"Fall in Love with Taking Care of Yourself"