September 29, 2024
Welcome to A Lovenote.
A weekly digest where I say hello and share. You’ll find things you can cook this week + some things you didn’t ask for but might enjoy. I’m so glad you are here!
Happy Sunday my Loves!
It is a delight and honour to introduce and announce The ‘Pause Effect Retreat! This retreat takes place Friday October 25th-Sunday October 27 in the beautiful hills of Collingwood, ON. I am co-hosting this retreat with my friend and muse, Lindsay Boyd, whose movement classes are unparalleled.
This retreat is all about you. It's a weekend designed for women in their 40s (and beyond) who are navigating the transition through menopause. We know this stage of life can bring its own set of challenges, so we've curated a cozy, supportive environment where you can learn, laugh, and reconnect with yourself and others.
What’s in store?
🥗 Nourishing Meals: Delicious, hormone-supporting food that will make you feel amazing from the inside out.
🧘♀️ Mindful Movement: Invigorating and restorative exercise designed to help you feel strong and vibrant.
🧠 Mindset Education: Practical tools and strategies to relieve stress and navigate this life stage with grace.
🛏️ Comfortable Accommodations: A beautiful space to relax, unwind, and sleep like a queen.
Together, we will deepen your understanding of nutrition, find new ways to move that feel good for your body, and explore ways to reframe and recharge. The 'Pause Effect is the perfect opportunity to do all of that and more.
Join us! Space is limited.
You can find out more about this retreat here.
Let’s dive into today’s newsletter, shall we?
What caught my eye this week
PONDERING I got a little too caught up in the race of “back to school” energy and then lately I’ve felt this burnout creeping in. I put a lot of pressure on myself to thrive as soon as my kids are back to school but the truth is I’m floundering a bit with time management. Between launching The ‘Pause Effect Retreat, writing my 7-Day Meals for Menopause Guide (click here to be notified when it drops) and keeping up with the recipes I love to share on social media, not to mention the regular life stuff (kids, laundry, appointment, etc) I feel a little scattered. I need a productivity system. Any recommendations? I would be so grateful for ideas and tips to stay organized and focussed.
READING I thought this roundup of Spooky Season books was super cute!
Learn more about what happens to our skin in perimenopause when estrogen levels start to drop.
On Thursday, I was driving to pick my son up from school. A road nearby was closed, so all the cars were pushed onto a residential street and we had to take turns with the oncoming traffic to make our way along. I took my turn to go forward and as I did, the car coming the opposite direction screamed out his window ‘Get out of the fucking way, bitch!” I tried to shake it off but encounters like this are jarring. How to shake off an interaction with a stranger.
LISTENING. I discovered this Spotify playlist and I’ve had it playing in the background. I think it helps me with productivity.
SHOPPING You really don’t want to hear how much time and money I’ve spent on looking for and buying my kids’ textbooks. Sorry my friends. Nothing exciting to share with you this week.
Creamy (but cream-less) Tomato Soup
This soup is made with pantry staples and tastes incredibly fresh and rich! You won’t believe how easy this one is. My whole family loves it and asks for it on repeat.
Swamp Soup
This soup is LOADED, I mean, LOADED with immune boosting superfoods like raw garlic, fresh ginger, spinach, parsley, jalapeños….it’s chicken soup for the soul.
Just in time for cold & flu season. It’s basically a flu shot.
Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
This soup is so crazy flavourful. It’s an Instant pot classic and so simple to make. But don’t worry if you don’t have an instant pot. I’ve included stovetop directions as well.
Lemony Orzo Chicken Soup
When you're craving a comforting lemon soup that's packed with protein, this recipe is your go-to. It makes for a simple, cozy dinner, and the nourishing leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day."
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SCROLLING Painter Karyn Lyons who makes me feel like I’m living in a Homecoming utopia.
Here are 10 clever fridge organization ideas. Would you use any of these?
COOKING Time to pull out the big pot! As we head into October this week I feel like it’s high time to round up some delicious soups to move into the chillier season! Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of soup?
From the blog this week…..
This week’s meal plan
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I would LOVE to hear from you! Please let me know what is on your mind and how I can help!
These easy protein peanut butter and jam cups are the perfect midday treat. Rich and creamy peanut butter center, with a dollop of sweet jam hidden inside, they taste so good you won't even be able to tell these are packed with protein!