Bloom Where You are Planted

Happy Earth Day! Everything seems green, new, and alive in the Spring! I even love the rain . . . it's good for naps (hahaha). And, we all know April showers bring May flowers.

I don't know about y'all, but I go through seasons of change that seem to correlate with the weather. January is a time of reflection and planning for my year. And, Spring always makes me want to clean and have a fresh start. When I think of a fresh start, I think of a blank slate, growth, and new beginnings. 

I love the quote "Grow where you are planted." (I'm not sure who originally said this quote. If you know the author, let me know, and I will credit them). I love this because it is an encouragement to do the best you can with whatever circumstances. If you are in a hard place (think rocky soil), you can still grow . . . think about succulents. They grow without much water and in conditions that most plants can not survive. 

But, my favorite spin on this quote is "Bloom where you are planted" by Mary Englebreit. My mom loves all of the Englebreit, and I grew up in a very positive encouraging environment with these reminders all around me. I can be very competitive, perfectionistic, and type A. These characteristics can provide drive but may not always be the best things to focus on. One of the things I keep in my office is a tin that says "She who laughs lasts" Mary Englebreit. This was always a great reminder to focus on what is important and enjoy life. I think this is a great spin on "she who laughs last" . . . which is more competitive, mean-spirited, and not a great way to live.

I also love this tin because it has a variety of laughs as the border. It reminds me of the song in Mary Poppins "I Love to Laugh." The characters describe many different types of laughs just like the border of this tin! I sometimes snort when I laugh, which is kind of embarrassing. But, I tell people it's a compliment because I tend to snort when I think something is hilarious. There are many things that make you unique. So, accept them as part of who you are and part of what makes you . . .  well . . . you. 

I hope this was encouraging to you on this Wednesday. I know many people (myself included) who are "type A" or "perfectionists." People with those characteristics strive for perfection and may not be happy with progress. I hope you are happy with your progress in whatever area of life you are growing . . . your fitness, food choices, or your faith.

A Note to all Dietetic Interns
As you finish up your internship, I hope you finish strong. Remember, your internship is like a long, marathon job interview. I hope you find your niche in the field of nutrition. And even if your first job isn't your dream job, I hope you work hard, learn a ton, and bloom where you are planted.

Hope you have a great week!

For more recipes, encouragement, and tips for healthy eating, follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter .

Healthy RD Challenge: Day 9

How are you doing with the #HealthyRD Challenge? I hope you are doing well! 

What is the Healthy RD Challenge?

This is my challenge for each of us to take one step a day on the road to being healthier . . . the healthy road or #HealthyRD if you will. If you participate in the #HealthyRD challenge, make sure you use the hashtag #HealthyRD and tag or tweet me, @RDtipoftheday, for a chance to be featured! I am sharing the five healthy choices I'm making each day this week.  Here's a reminder of what I did for the Healthy RD Challenge last week: Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 7, and Day 8. Check out the links to get ideas on living a healthier lifestyle.

Healthy RD Challenge: Day 9

Today, I Today, I got 8 hours of sleep, which is my #HealthyRD Day 9 healthy choice. Sleep is vital. Sleep gives our bodies time to heal and repair itself. Thanks to the National Institutes of Healthy (NIH), we know that sleep is important to maintain the health of our bodies. Adequate sleep is also important to for adequate growth for infants, children, and adolescents. 

We have better mental capabilities when we are well rested. Our brains function better after a good night's sleep; we are better able to think, learn and be creative. For more information on sleep, visit the NIH's website.

Getting adequate sleep is also important for maintaining a healthy weight. Sleep helps regulate hormones. When you are not getting enough sleep, it throws your hormone balance off. For example, your levels of insulin rise when you are sleep deficient. Prolonged levels of insulin may increase your risk of developing diabetes. So, make sure you are getting enough rest as part of your healthy lifestyle.

So, try to get some good rest tonight or this weekend. Then, wake up refreshed and enjoy your weekend. Have a great weekend!

How will you choose to be healthy today?

Check with your personal RD or MD before starting a new diet or exercise program to make sure it is healthy, safe, and the right choice for you.

For more recipes, encouragement, and tips for healthy eating, follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter . You can subscribe to this blog, RDtipoftheday.blogspot.com, through BlogLovin.

If you enjoyed this post, you might enjoy:

Healthy RD Challenge Roundup

Cajun Sliders Recipe

Lasagna Bake Recipe