Happygirl essentials: the dash egg cooker

As part of my new wellness program, I've cleaned up my eating. One of the hardest things I've found is that when I am hungry, I am HUNGRY. This is usually my downfall. When I want to eat something, I want it immediately. So, I've tried to prepare myself with healthy options. Unfortunately, since I got my Invisalign retainers three weeks ago ( and for another 25 weeks), my teeth are very sensitive and I can't bite into anything tougher than salmon. This rules out my usual go-to snacks of celery/carrot sticks and nuts.

So, my snacks need to be clean, high protein, soft and quick. Enter the hard-boiled egg. Even after trying for years,  I still haven't mastered the perfect boiled egg. I did some research and found the Dash egg cooker which can cook six eggs at once and has an Amazon rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars with almost 9000 reviews. I ordered it (at less than $19) last week. I tried it for the first time yesterday, cooking six eggs.

It's simple. Poke a small hole in the fat end of each egg with the provided tool and add the correct amount of water to the pot (with the included measuring cup). There are three different levels of doneness from soft to hard, depending on how much water you add. Place the pre-poked eggs on each dimple and put the top on. In 15 minutes a buzzer from hell will go off (imagine a smoke detector at half-power). Remove the eggs with the attached carrier and add them to a bowl of ice water. Half an hour later you will be enjoying the perfect hard boiled egg. (I enjoy mine with a sprinkling of chipotle powder and salt.) I was satisfied until dinner, 4 1/2 hours later.)

I LOVE this product. It's compact. It works perfectly and it's easy to clean. It's an essential in our kitchen now. The only downside is the done buzzer which for some reason is obscenely loud and shocking if you don't expect it. Otherwise, it's the best way to make the perfect boiled egg.

Inspiring Video: Fr. Gregory Boyle

In his commencement speech at Pepperdine University, Fr. Gregory Boyle shared a story about the gang members that he works with at Homeboy Industries. It's inspiring and worth a listen.

"Only the soul that ventilates the world with tenderness has any chance of changing the world."

Homeboy Industries provides hope, training, and support to formerly gang-involved and previously incarcerated men and women allowed them to redirect their lives and become contributing members of our community.

Homeboy Industries is located in Los Angeles, California

thought for the week January 28

Last week someone who I thought was a friend acted so rudely that she took my breath away for a minute. I thought to myself "No. Wait. What? Did she really just do this to me?" I was so upset about what she said that I let it simmer inside for several days.  I believed what she said.  I kept running the conversation over in my head. There were other people who heard her say these hurtful comments to me and it took everything I had not to text them and get their insight. To be clear, there was really no other way to interpret what she said to me. It was cold and sharp and meant to hurt. She accomplished what she set out to do. She made me feel small.

I decided against asking my friends what they thought because really what would that have accomplished other than giving more thought to her mean spirited stab? I wondered why I let her get inside my head and more importantly, my soul. The quotation by Eleanor Roosevelt popped into my head. "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." I said this to myself over and over.

No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.

I had subconsciously made the decision to let her dictate how I felt about myself. I let her ruin several potentially great days of my life because I felt humiliated by what she said to me in public. In that moment I made the decision that what she thinks of me doesn't matter. Everyone has a different view of me in their minds. If I try to live my life being kind and compassionate (qualities that I try to imbue in my own daughter) then that is what matters. The person who bullies someone else is coming at life with a negative attitude. Sometimes unintentionally they hurt the people around them and sometimes it's intentional. Has anyone ever said something mean to you and followed it up with "I said this for your own good, you know?"  This does not have to be the way that you accept being treated. Even if it's a work, school, family or neighbor situation that you can't walk away from, you don't have to let what someone else thinks about you, affect the way that you see yourself. 

If you treat others with kindness and come at the world from a place of love, that becomes your shield. When I thought about this situation and how I would treat future interactions like this, I imagined a pink bubble around me that was impenetrable and iridescent. You can call this shield love, confidence, a positive attitude or even a guardian angel's grace. The thing is, when you believe in yourself and your worth, the confidence you exude will bounce negative energy away from you. As Martin Luther King Jr. said "Darkness cannot drive our darkness.; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." Be the light. 

Happy Things: The 2019 Walt Disney Studios Slate

As I was reviewing the Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures slate this morning, I thought "Fantastic! A new "Captain Marvel!" Then "Dumbo"! Follow by "Penguins"! Clearly I am going to be spending a lot of time watching Disney releases this year. And I can't wait.

Scroll down to watch the trailers of upcoming Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures releases. Which movies are you excited about?

March 8, 2019 – CAPTAIN MARVEL (Marvel Studios)

Set in the 1990s, Marvel Studios’ “Captain Marvel” is an all-new adventure from a previously unseen period in the history of the Marvel Cinematic Universe that follows the journey of Carol Danvers as she becomes one of the universe’s most powerful heroes. While a galactic war between two alien races reaches Earth, Danvers finds herself and a small cadre of allies at the center of the maelstrom. Marvel Studios’ CAPTAIN MARVEL opens on March 8, 2019 in U.S. theaters.

March 29, 2019 – DUMBO (Walt Disney Studios)

From Disney and visionary director Tim Burton, the all-new grand live-action adventure “Dumbo” expands on the beloved classic story where differences are celebrated, family is cherished and dreams take flight. Circus owner Max Medici (Danny DeVito) enlists former star Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell) and his children Milly (Nico Parker) and Joe (Finley Hobbins) to care for a newborn elephant whose oversized ears make him a laughingstock in an already struggling circus. But when they discover that Dumbo can fly, the circus makes an incredible comeback, attracting persuasive entrepreneur V.A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton), who recruits the peculiar pachyderm for his newest, larger-than-life entertainment venture, Dreamland. Dumbo soars to new heights alongside a charming and spectacular aerial artist, Colette Marchant (Eva Green), until Holt learns that beneath its shiny veneer, Dreamland is full of dark secrets. DUMBO flies into theaters on March 29, 2019.

April 17, 2019 – PENGUINS (Disneynature) 

Disneynature’s all-new feature film “Penguins” is a coming-of-age story about an Adélie penguin named Steve who joins millions of fellow males in the icy Antarctic spring on a quest to build a suitable nest, find a life partner and start a family. None of it comes easily for him, especially considering he's targeted by everything from killer whales to leopard seals, who unapologetically threaten his happily ever after. From the filmmaking team behind “Bears” and “Chimpanzee,” Disneynature’s “Penguins” opens in theaters nationwide in time for Earth Day 2019. Disneynature’s PENGUINS opens in theaters on April 17, 2019.

April 26, 2019 – AVENGERS: ENDGAME (Marvel Studios)

AVENGERS: ENDGAME releases in U.S. theaters on April 26, 2019.

May 24, 2019 – ALADDIN (Walt Disney Studios)

A thrilling and vibrant live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic, “Aladdin” is the exciting tale of the charming street rat Aladdin, the courageous and self-determined Princess Jasmine and Genie who may be the key to their future. Directed by Guy Ritchie (“Sherlock Holmes,” “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”), who brings his singular flair for fast-paced, visceral action to the fictitious port city of Agrabah,  The film stars Will Smith (“Ali,” “Men in Black”) as the larger-than-life Genie; Mena Massoud (“Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan”) as the charming scoundrel Aladdin and Naomi Scott (“Power Rangers”) as Jasmine, the beautiful self-determined princess.

ALADDIN opens in U.S. theatres nationwide May 24, 2019.

June 21, 2019 – TOY STORY 4 (Disney·Pixar)

Woody has always been confident about his place in the world and that his priority is taking care of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. But when Bonnie adds a reluctant new toy called “Forky” to her room, a road trip adventure alongside old and new friends will show Woody how big the world can be for a toy.  Disney·Pixar’s TOY STORY 4 ventures to U.S. theaters on June 21, 2019.

July 19, 2019 – THE LION KING (Walt Disney Studios)

Director Jon Favreau’s all-new “The Lion King” journey’s to the African savannah where a future king is born. Simba idolizes his father, King Mufasa, and takes to heart his own royal destiny. But not everyone in the kingdom celebrates the new cub’s arrival. Scar, Mufasa’s brother–and former heir to the throne-has plans of his own. The battle for Pride Rock is ravaged with betrayal, tragedy and drama, ultimately resulting in Simba’s exile. With help from a curious pair of newfound friends, Simba will have to figure out how to grow up and take back what is rightfully his. The all-star cast includes Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa and Billy Eichner as Timon, “The Lion King” utilizes pioneer filmmaking techniques to bring these treasured characters to life in a whole new way.    

THE LION KING roars into theatres on July 19, 2019.

August 9, 2019 – ARTEMIS FOWL (Walt Disney Studios

Disney’s “Artemis Fowl,” based on the beloved book by Eoin Colfer, is a fantastical, spellbinding adventure that follows the journey of 12-year-old genius Artemis Fowl, a descendant of a long line of criminal masterminds, as he seeks to find his father who has mysteriously disappeared. With the help of his loyal protector Butler, Artemis sets out to find him, and in doing so uncovers an ancient, underground civilization—the amazingly advanced world of fairies. Deducing that his father’s disappearance is somehow connected to the secretive, reclusive fairy world, cunning Artemis concocts a dangerous plan—so dangerous that he ultimately finds himself in a perilous war of wits with the all-powerful fairies. Disney’s ARTEMIS FOWL opens in U.S. theaters on August 9, 2019.

November 22, 2019 – FROZEN 2 (Walt Disney Animation Studios)

Arendelle heats up in 2019 when Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf return to the big screen in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Frozen 2,” the much-anticipated follow-up to 2013’s Oscar®-winning “Frozen”—the highest grossing animated film of all time. Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff and Josh Gad reprise their roles, while Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee, the team behind “Frozen,” return to the directors’ chairs. FROZEN 2 opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22, 2019. 

December 20, 2019 – STAR WARS: EPISODE IX (Lucasfilm)

STAR WARS: EPISODE IX opens in U.S. theaters on December 20, 2019.

What it's like to get Invisalign

This is the year I commit to sparking joy in all aspects of my life, for self-improvement.

In addition to my weight-loss/wellness program, I finally decided to correct my teeth.  I've never been completely happy with my smile. I have an overbite, a narrow palate and my lower teeth are crowded. (I still have all of my wisdom teeth.) I decided to visit an orthodontist to see if I was a candidate for braces.

I made my consultation appointment with Dr. Michelle Neal of Neal Orthodontics in Kirkland, WA. After digital impressions were made (no goop!), Dr. Neal showed me the Invisalign computer generated model of what my smile would look like if I diligently used my Invisalign retainers for 22 hours each day for 29 weeks.Not only would my smile and bite improve but I would also be able to breathe better.

After discussing my options with Dr. Neal, I made the choice to pursue Invisalign rather than traditional metal braces. (Invisalign are plastic retainers that fit over your teeth that can be removed for two hours a day for eating and teeth maintenance.)

After my initial consultation, three weeks later my Invisalign retainers arrived. At my next orthodontic appointment, I was fitted with the retainers and shown how to care for my teeth and the retainers. Before the retainers were fitted, the technician applied small enamel colored buttons to my teeth which would keep the retainers in place. I also had a Carriere Motion Appliance and several small hooks applied to my teeth to hold elastic bands in place. When she showed me how to put the retainers in, it was more uncomfortable than I expected.  It also felt strange to talk with something foreign in my mouth. By the next day though,  I had adjusted and my lisp was minimal.

The first week was hard. I have never had braces and my teeth were tender. I drank mostly smoothies. I tried to eat salmon one night for dinner and even that was too hard to chew. I stuck mainly with soups and protein shakes for about ten days.

It's now been three weeks and I am on my third set of Invisalign retainers. I can already see an improvement in my bite. Yes, I am a little self-conscious about the fact that I have plastic braces, rods and elastic bands as an adult but I know that I am doing something good for myself.

I've had a lot of questions from friends (and strangers!) about the Invisalign process so I thought I'd address them here:

Does it hurt?
It's uncomfortable at the beginning. Each Thursday night when I brush may teeth before bed, I put in a new set of Invisalign retainers and each week it's uncomfortable for a little while. It has to because these braces/retainers are literally moving my teeth in my jaw bones. I take two Tylenol before bed and by Friday morning it feels fine. It just feels like pressure.

Is it hard to adjust? 
It was but the adjustment lasted for less than a week. The hardest part for me were the elastics that go from my lower molars to my canine teeth. It took me awhile to be able to do apply them without snapping the elastics in my mouth which I did dozens of times. Now I have the hang of it.

What is it like taking care of the retainers?
I keep them in for at least 22 hours a day, removing them just to floss/brush. sip my morning iced coffee and eat meals.  When I brush my teeth (first thing in the morning, after breakfast, after lunch, after dinner and before bed), I brush the retainers as well and give them a quick bath in mouthwash.

I read that curry or turmeric can stain the enamel colored buttons on your teeth, so I avoid foods with these spices.

What can you eat?
I don't chew gum or eat popcorn or anything sticky. I don't eat or drink anything expect flat water when the Invisalign retainers are in.  I like shakes, smoothies, salmon and soft vegetables. I don't eat raw apples or carrots or anything hard or crunchy. I find it uncomfortable.

Why is it sometimes called The Invisalign Diet? 
-It's work to remove the retainers and brush them and my teeth each time I eat something so I don't eat other than my three main meals. Ever.
-I find it uncomfortable to chew crunchy things so snacks like chips, cheese curls (my favorites), sesame sticks etc. are all off the menu.

Is it expensive?
It is but I believe in taking care of my body, mind and soul so whether it's a therapist to talk about my anxiety or a nutritionist to help me lose weight and get fit or an orthodontist to correct my overbite and fix my crowded teeth, I believing in investing in yourself.

Any tips you learned so far?
-Buy another retainer case. I keep one at home for when I eat and brush my teeth. I also keep one in Waverly's diaper bag.
-Never take your retainer out and put it in a napkin. You will forget it's there and throw it out. I bought my bonus retainer case on Amazon. I liked this one because it has a mirror to help me apply the elastic bands and it also has air holes so the retainers dry after I brush them.
-I also bought a box of disposable pre-pasted toothbrushes for times when I don't have access to water or I don't feel comfortable with the  water source (like a public bathroom.)
-If your Invisalign program calls for elastic bands, get extra bags of bands. I have them stashed everywhere so I have no excuse not to use them.
-Follow the program exactly as your dentist prescribes.

I'll update my progress here as we go along but right now I'm very happy that I decided to finally do this. If you've had braces or Invisalign, I'd love to hear your tips on managing the process!

Update: February 28, 2019
I had my two month checkup today and it is going well! I've adapted to the Invisalign retainers better than I expected. I was a little concerned about what people would think about my braces but now several friends have decided to see if they're candidates for Invisalign as well! If w're ever out and they need elastics, I've got them covered!

Our Favorite Essentials For Baby

When we had Waverly, except for the birth and parenting classes that we took , we didn't know much else about babies. So, while we felt confident that we could change a diaper and give her the Heimlich maneuver if (God forbid) it was ever needed, we didn't know which brand of diapers that would be best or which car seat and stroller would fit our family perfectly. I spoke with other moms and did some online searches and we prepared our home for Waverly's arrival. Through trial and error (just say no to the diaper wiper warmer), we found the products that made our lives happy. For example, we tried four different strollers until were found "the one." (We donated the others.) Having Wave was everything we ever imagined it would be. Each day brought another miracle, another moment of absolute love. We were grateful that there were great products out there that helped to make our family more comfortable. 

Now that Waverly is 16 months-old, L and I feel like pros at this baby thing which is coming in especially handy now that two of my best friends are expecting their first babies. When they asked me for recommendations, I was more than happy to share with them these products that made our lives happier this past year+. 

If there is a baby product that you love, I'd love to hear it!

 The Stroller

1. The stroller we originally wanted, The Uppababy Cruz was $849 with the carseat included. We thought we could see if we could find a less expensive model that checked off most of the items on our wish list. We ended up spending a lot of time in Buy Buy Baby as well as searching for recommendations online before buying a stroller that was under $200. I didn't think there would be much difference in strollers but I was wrong. The one we bought as well as two subsequent ones (under $200) had a bumpy ride. The first one rusted badly and would stick when I tried to close it. The second one had a front wheel that would actually keep popping off. The third one was just so small that I couldn't fit her diaper bag under the seat and the hood was so small that it didn't keep rain or sun off her face. Finally, we decided to just purchase the Uppababy Cruz.  I am so happy we did. It had the things that were most important to us:

It has a smooth ride
The car seat fits right on the stroller so it's easy to transfer the baby from the car to the stroller or in the house if she is sleeping
It has a huge basket which comes in handy when shopping
The stroller seat can either face the parent or face out which I really like.

We knew this was a major expense but since we use this every day, this is our favorite baby purchase. I would highly recommend this stroller. 

Uppababy Cruz with Mesa Carseat (the indigo color we bought is called Taylor) $849.99

The Boppy Newborn Lounger

2. There aren't enough words for how much I love this product. From the first day we brought Waverly home, she has rested in this lounger. It was a soft yet supportive little pillow that hugged her chubby little body as she rested near me. It kept her head up at an angle so as she became more aware, it was a good option for her to rest in. Sometimes when I had some work to do, I would place the Boppy on my desk and she would stare at me and coo while I worked on content. Even though she has outgrown it, we leave it in her play area so that she can rest her head on it when she relaxes. I would recommend this to everyone. It is a great place for the baby to rest and gives mom or dad a few minutes of hands free time. (This Boppy is not meant for sleeping.)

Boppy Newborn Lounger, $29.99

The Blanket

3. The Little Giraffe blanket is the softest, most comfortable blanket you will ever feel. It is like the underbelly of a kitten. Of all of the blankets Waverly has, this one is her favorite. I love how she slowly rubs the blanket against her lips as she falls asleep. 

Little Giraffe Blanket, $86

The Booties

4. Waverly is a magician when it comes to socks and shoes. Since she was old enough to grab, she has taken off her socks the moment I put them on. (The same goes with hats and bows.) So last winter when she waved her little cold feet happily in the air after removing her warm socks, I knew I had to find a solution. I ordered these Zutano booties and because of their design, Waverly could never take these off. They kept her feet warm all winter. They come in a great assortment of colors and fabrics and I love that the baby's feet were always cozy. She only stopped wearing them when she started walking and only then because they didn't have a grip bottom. 

Zutano booties, $15.75

The Bath

5. I love this little baby bath. Waverly has bathed in this lounger since she was born and she still sits in it as I bathe her. It's soft and pliable and fits in most sinks (and tubs.) I like that the lounger is perforated so the water can go right through (as well as any bio matter!). It's a steal at under $15.

Angelcare Baby Bath Lounger $14.99

The Nailclipper

6. I was so nervous the first time I had to trim her nails. The baby nail clipper was enormous in comparison to her tiny nails. Even with the emery board I felt like I was taking sandpaper to my baby's delicate pink fingers and toes. I did some searching and asked other experienced moms what they recommended. Several recommended this battery operated nail trimmer which has multiple speeds and comes with several attachments. I started off using the softest buffer pad on her nails and she barely reacted. I now use the second softest pad on her nails and it does a great job of eliminating sharp edges without feeling like I could hurt her skin. 

Fansidi Nail Clipper (in pink or blue) $16.99 

The White Noise Machine

7. I can't sleep without a white noise machine and so we thought Waverly might like one as well. We have tried several and right now we are using the Dreamegg which produces a white noise as well as other relaxing sounds like the ocean,  which is the one we listen to.  It also has a soothing nightlight.  She seems to love falling asleep to this. I can't imagine not having this noise machine which does a great job of blocking the ambient house noise.

Dreamegg Southing Fidelity Relaxing Sounds Machine, $19.59

The Diaper Wipe Dispenser

8. I know it may sound like a silly thing but I was so frustrated by our baby wipe packs and dispensers. I'd want one wipe but I'd yank out three or five or more. L found this Oxo baby wipe dispenser and I can't believe how much I love this product. Because of a weight inside, when you pull out a wipe, you only pull out one. You can continue pulling more, of course, but if you need just one, just one is what you will get. It comes in white, with a selection of accent colors. 

A word about the electric diaper wipe warmers. We bought one and we disliked it immediately. Even with adding water to the stack of wipes you insert into the container, the wipes were either soaking wet/dripping or dry. Waverly didn't seem to care of the wipes were warm or not and I couldn't wait to replace it with the Oxo. 

Oxo Wipe Dispenser, $19.97

The Backseat Mirror

9. Friends of mine told me I absolutely needed one of these mirrors so I could see the baby while driving. We bought one thinking it couldn't hurt but I didn't really appreciate it until we were driving a rental car in Boston and L and I realized we couldn't see our five week-old baby in the backseat for the 90 mile drive to visit our family. I ended up sitting in the backwith her for the entire trip. On my next (solo) trip back east with Waverly I had forgotten that I didn't have a mirror in the backseat of the rental car. When she was in her carseat, it was so quiet that I worried that her head may have tilted forward (a dangerous position which can impair breathing). I was driving on the Mass Turnpike and I called her name but didn't hear anything. I tried opening the windows to let in the winter air. I turned the radio up. I said her name repeatedly. I heard nothing and yes, I pulled over to the side of the highway so I could make sure she was OK. (She was. She just sleeps deeply, especially in the car.) I picked up this mirror the next day. 

I like this one because it has a light and a remote control to turn on the light. The mirror not only allows me to ensure that Waverly is OK but she can also see me which soothes her. We have this mirror in both of our cars and we bring one with us when we travel. It's an essential. 

Shatterproof Baby Rearview Mirror, $19.94

The Diaper

10. We started with Pampers in the hospital and we continued using them when we got home. When Waverly was a few months old we tried other brands (Honest, Huggies, Costco. . .) as well as other versions of Pampers but we always come back to Pampers Baby Dry. These are the only diapers that I love. They don't leak. They fit her well and most importantly she has never experienced diaper rash when she wore these. As soon as we tried other diapers, even Pampers Overnights, Waverly was irritated. I couldn't be happier with Pampers Baby Dry and recommend these to my friends. 

Pampers Baby Dry, a month's worth $44.64

The Baby Monitor

11. I had one requirement for our baby monitor. I wanted to be able to see Waverly in her crib without touching a monitor. I wanted to just open my eyes and see that she was OK before I drifted off back to sleep. I leave all of the home technology to L and he selected the Nanit which I love. It's safe (no strangers tuning in), it's high tech and it gives us great information like the temperature and humidity level of her room as well as when she went to sleep and when she wakes up throughout the night. Each week we receive a report on how she slept the previous seven days. I couldn't be happier with this monitor. 

Nanit Baby Monitor, $192

The Swaddler

12. One of favorite gifts we received was this aden + anais  100% cotton muslin 4-pack of swaddling cloths. They are the perfect size (44 x 44) to swaddle Waverly but they were also great to use as a burp cloth. I used this light blanket over her stroller hood to keep the strong Boston summer sun away from her delicate skin when we went out for walks. I also used these to drape over her in the car in case she got to cool from the A/C. I love these soft blankets which get softer as you wash them. They are still a favorite of Waverly's. They come in dozens of color packs and designs, perfect for any nursery. 

aden + anais swaddle blanket 4-pack. $27.96

Observing Martin Luther King Jr. Day

One of the things that I try to focus on when everything happening around me seems overwhelming is  to do something for someone else. It takes you outside of yourself and makes you think about the wellness of those around you.

This quotation above is one of my favorites from Dr. King. Maybe you can't change what is happening on a global scale, but you can so something however small for someone else. Bring food or clean blankets to an animal shelter. Visit someone in a nursing home who doesn't get visitors. Call someone who you know is feeling down. Pick up trash while walking in a park. What would happen if we each did something to instill joy or comfort in someone else? I believe this world would be a much more peaceful place, just like Dr. King imagined.

how to be happy: don't compare yourself to anyone else

I had this habit of comparing myself to others. I think maybe we all do this at some point. In high school I knew exactly where my GPA placed me. At the time, it was a good thing. My group of friends pushed each other in a friendly competition. Later, after college and in my second job in PR, I had a manager who liked to pit us against each other. It was in television and it was brutal. My colleagues and I worked ridiculous hours to come up with great concepts especially after our weekly meetings when our manager would start each meeting with "_______ won the gold star the week. Now who is going to blow me away and who is going to disappoint me this week?" It was a stressful workplace that invited malice and a siloed way of thinking. I hated that job but I have to admit, I developed a strong backbone and I learned how not to be so sensitive.

When I was thinking about things that sabotage my own happiness, I realized that there have been times when I was happy but then I saw someone else who did better and I let their success diminish my own joy.

When we were going through the absolute hell of fertility issues, it was devastating to me every time one of my friends announced her pregnancy.  I had breakfast with a friend who exploded with her news. "I AM PREGNANT! Oh my God. It just happened! We are SO happy!" She was so excited that I thought she would literally levitate.  I wish I could have been happy for her. I felt sucker punched. Thinking back, I'm embarrassed that I couldn't share in her happiness. If I could go back in time, I would share her joy with her. I would hug her and I would cry happy tears for her. It happened over and over. Friends and family members became pregnant and gave birth to these beautiful, chubby little babies and I held myself back from spending time with them because I compared myself to them. I felt like such a failure.

One day, I realized that I could make a choice. I could be happy for my friends and family members or I could continue to isolate myself and miss out on getting to know some pretty amazing new little lives.  I found a new therapist who dealt with fertility issues and she helped me to understand that happiness isn't limited. There are not a certain amount of babies being given out. Each time  a friend had a baby didn't mean there was one less for me. It wasn't like musical chairs.

What I learned with each session was that comparing yourself to someone else doesn't bring you any closer to happiness. What it can do is destroy friendships, instill low self-confidence and prevent you from appreciating what you do have. When you are grateful for all that you have in your life (the lessons / the good / the bad), you build happiness incrementally.  I became honestly happy for those around me who had wonderful things happen to them- babies, promotions, new homes... it was all wonderful. Not only did this change in my thinking make me happier, it also improved my friendships. When I stopped being jealous, my heart had room for joy. It's funny how when you're happy for someone else, that leads to your happiness too.

How I'm changing my eating plan for 2019

I think about food way too much. Even before I open my eyes in the morning I think about what I'm going to have for breakfast.  I wish I didn't think this way. I should be thinking about my plan for the day but instead I think about how delicious breakfast foods are. For as long as I can remember food has occupied way too much of my brain. My grandparents (God bless them) believed that French Toast could solve any problem (and it kinda did). I love food. I love the smooth creaminess of macaroni and cheese. I love the way mashed potatoes make me feel warm and happy. I'm a carb girl. Chocolate, sweets, nope. Just give me a loaf of crusty warm bread and butter and I'm good. 

The problem is that this way of eating can only cause weight gain, especially if partnered with unbalanced portion control and lack of any kind of fitness program. To lose weight, I've tried all of the programs (No, really, all of them) from Weight Watchers to Nutrisystem, fasting to a 20-week weight loss program at my gym. I've met with a therapist (we discussed my past and what was keeping me overweight) and a doctor who prescribed a medication that made my heart and mind race (that was awful). I would lose a few pounds but I always gained the weight back when I tried to incorporate "real food" again. Then I would feel terrible about myself and seek solace in food which just made me feel bad about myself and there I was, falling down the rabbit hole.

Then five years ago I spent a week at Red Mountain Resort doing their detox week. Something in me clicked and even when I returned home I kept the program up. I ended up losing 100 pounds by eating proteins, fruits, vegetables and nuts. I felt myself glow like I never had before in my life. I was proud of myself and that just fueled my success. But then I started to feel deprived and angry about foods I was missing. I felt that binge twinge and then it happened.  I had just a little blueberry muffin and then I had a cookie and that 100 pounds I lost came back on.  I just can't control myself with carbs (flour, rice, grains) or sugar. Even just a little sets me off seeking more.  It was like I was almost at the top of a mountain that I had worked so hard to climb, only to let go and free fall. 

Since then I didn't think much about what I was eating. I was going through fertility treatments and my hormones were so unbalanced that food was one of the only things that made me feel better. I soothed myself with carbs which took my mind off of everything. Doritos melted my stress away. Now that Waverly is here though, I look at her and I want to be the best possible mom for this little girl. She is 16 months-old now and I see how she watches me and imitates what I do. 

I want Waverly to have a healthy relationship with food and her body. I want her to think of food as fuel, not comfort. We are careful not to use food as a reward and we try to give her as many fruits and vegetables as possible without resorting to hiding them in other foods.  A few weeks ago I realized that if I care this much about my daughter, shouldn't I care about myself the same way?

Here's the thing: I want joy in all aspects of my life. Including my eating plan. I want to be strong, lean and most of all I want my body and my mind for once to be on the same playing field. 

So, on January 1, I decided to follow a plan that works, a plan that makes me feel happy and satisfied.  I am following a plan that is for the rest of my life. I don't want to  diet. I want to fuel my body with foods that spark joy (sort of the Marie Kondo of eating programs). What I created takes from some of my favorite programs - Keto, Paleo, Mediterranean, Whole30 and my original Detox program. I'll be eating vegetables, fruits, salmon/tuna, nuts, some dairy and some shakes/bars that I found work well and don't trigger a carb-loading binge. This is the plan. I'm also going to adding some fitness from walking to kickboxing and hopefully things I've never tried before. I'm going to seek out others who have trailed this path before me 

So far, I've lost 11 pounds since 1/1. More importantly I feel my glow coming back. The sugar and carb cravings have subsided and so has the I-need-sugar-right-now headache. I've already gone down a pants size and I think this is a real fine start to a program that makes me feel happy and not deprived. One of the best things to come out of this in just a few days is that I don't think about food when I wake up in the morning, I know that whatever I have for breakfast (eggs/shake/protein bar/bulletproof coffee) will bring me joy. 

Coming up, I'll post my progress and what I've found that works and doesn't work. If you have any time on how you regained your fitness while increasing your joy, I'd love to hear it!

Glow on!

Happy Places: What's new at Disney Parks for 2019

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge will open at Disneyland Resort in summer 2019 and at Walt Disney World in late fall 2019. 

One of our favorite places on earth (and probably your too!) are the What Disney Resorts including Walt Disney World and Disneyland. So, I was excited to review the release for what's happening at the resorts this year, especially Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.  L and I can't wait to take Waverly for the first time! As Star Wars fans, when we visit, I have a strong feeling Wave  will be dressed in character as Rey. Here's what's coming up at the happiest place on earth, starting January 18th, 2019.

In case you're curious, yes, you will be able to fly the Millennium Falcon.

At Walt Disney World

Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Celebration Arrives at Magic Kingdom Park

Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Celebration will honor those true originals, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, with new entertainment, merchandise and specialty food and beverages at Magic Kingdom.

➤JUST ANNOUNCED! Mickey and Minnie will greet guests together inside Town Square Theater, wearing all-new, colorful outfits for their special celebration.

➤JUST ANNOUNCED! Guests will enjoy Celebration Station inside Town Square Theater, where they may sign a guestbook to let Mickey and Minnie know, personally, how much fun they had during the party.

➤JUST ANNOUNCED! An all-new song, “It’s a Good Time,” will play several times daily as part of the new “Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party.” During this high-energy bash, singing hosts will invite guests to join in the fun with Disney pals including Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy, and many others.

➤JUST ANNOUNCED! Mickey’s beloved dog, Pluto, will meet guests under the big top at Pete’s Silly Sideshow in Storybook Circus.

Party with Pixar Pals and More as Disney’s Hollywood Studios Marks 30 Years

➤JUST ANNOUNCED! May 1, 2019, marks the 30th anniversary of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The park will celebrate this milestone all year long, starting Jan. 18 with the reveal of a new 30th anniversary logo.
➤Pixar Avenue will be the place for guests to show off their inner Supers with The Incredibles. Guests will celebrate the heroic deeds of Mr. Incredible, Mrs. Incredible and Frozone, who will make appearances throughout the day during a party featuring lively music, dancing, interactive games and more Super fun. Guests will meet super-suit designer Edna Mode and see some of her greatest creations. They may also spot signs for the whereabouts of the youngest Incredible – the mischievous and multi-powered Jack-Jack.
➤A door to the monster world will open inside Walt Disney Presents, inviting guests to visit with Mike and Sulley from Disney•Pixar’s “Monsters, Inc.”
➤Guests will feel like honorary toys in the new Toy Story Land. Based on the beloved Pixar Toy Story films, the playful land features two new attractions – Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers – as well as fan-favorite Toy Story Mania!
➤In addition, the new high-energy live show “Disney Junior Dance Party!” will feature characters from Disney Junior television series, including Vampirina, Doc McStuffins and many more.

More Broadway Music Than Ever at Epcot International Festival of the Arts
The Epcot International Festival of the Arts comes to life Jan. 18-Feb. 25, 2019, where guests will indulge in world-class culinary, visual and performance arts.

➤The Disney on Broadway Concert Series expands to seven days a week during the festival, providing more opportunities than ever before to hear pairs of Disney on Broadway stars sing favorite tunes from award-winning productions. The lineup will rotate regularly, featuring music from “The Lion King,” “Frozen,” “Beauty and the Beast” and other hit shows.
➤The festival will include 13 Food Studios, plus additional creative food and beverages around Epcot, featuring an expanded selection of delicious new tastes to savor.
➤Art collectors and Disney enthusiasts alike will find artwork for sale throughout the park, from the Art of Disney store to Festival Markets. In addition, special festival merchandise will be available at Mouse Gear and other Epcot locations.
➤The 2019 festival provides fun every day for the whole family, including performance artists, complimentary seminars, hands-on activities and Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt.
➤While experiencing all the Epcot International Festival of the Arts has to offer, guests will want to spend another evening around World Showcase Lagoon taking in “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” which will be ending in the second half of 2019 to make way for an all-new nighttime spectacular.

Feel the Love During ‘Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party’ at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Guests will take a walk on the wild side at Disney’s Animal Kingdom during the “Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party,” featuring Timon and Rafiki from Disney’s “The Lion King.”

➤Each day on Discovery Island, the dance party will encourage young adventurers to let their inner animals roam free on the dance floor as a street band plays a fiery soundtrack in a World Beat style. 
➤All this excitement will be here in two shakes of a mouse’s tail! To make sure no one misses a moment, guests will find a new countdown clock online at Disneyworld.com/nowmorethanever. It’s rolling down to when the fun begins on the morning of Jan. 18, 2019!

Special event and ticket offers for Walt Disney World Resort are available here. 

At Disneyland

From Jan. 22 through Feb. 18, Disneyland Resort will celebrate the love of Minnie and Mickey for Valentine’s month. Guests will find a new Mickey Mouse flower “portrait,” and lovely and festive Valentine’s décor all along Main Street, U.S.A. Guests may also choose to partake in Minnie’s Valentine Surprise, a special scavenger hunt experience in Disneyland park. After purchasing a commemorative map and stickers at select merchandise locations, they may search for the hidden valentines that Minnie has left for Mickey around the park. Upon completion, maps can be returned to a designated location to redeem a special Valentine’s surprise.*

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge invites guests to live their own Star Wars adventure

➤In summer 2019, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will make history as the largest single-land expansion ever at the Disneyland Resort. In this epic, new land, guests will live their own adventure in a galaxy far, far away and explore Black Spire Outpost. Once a busy crossroads, this spaceport on the planet Batuu is now home to those who prefer to stay out of the mainstream, including smugglers, rogue traders and exotic creatures traveling between the frontier and uncharted space.

➤Guests will take the controls in one of three unique and critical roles aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. On Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, guests can join a battle between the First Order and the Resistance – including a face-off with Kylo Ren. These two new incredible experiences, paired with the land’s interactive components and optional integration with the Play Disney Parks app, will invite guests to become galactic travelers and live their own Star Wars adventures in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

In addition to these two long-awaited attractions, guests may try blue milk, well-known to Star Wars fans, and pop into the local Cantina for libations. They will discover treasures as they maneuver the winding alleyways and merchant stalls, and they may see familiar Star Wars faces, including Chewbacca and stormtroopers. The beauty of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is that each guest is encouraged to choose their unique adventure in the galaxy.

➤Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will feature original music created especially for the land by Academy Award-winning composer John Williams.

Lunar New Year celebration returns to celebrate the Year of the Pig

➤ Disneyland Resort will ring in the Year of the Pig this Lunar New Year in Disney California Adventure, from Jan. 25 through Feb. 17. A joyous celebration of Asian cultures, the Lunar New Year celebration welcomes guests of all ages to commemorate the tradition with beloved Disney characters, and welcome another year of good fortune.

➤Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession, a limited-time offering during the Lunar New Year celebration, is a bright and bold parade hosted by Mulan and her faithful dragon, Mushu. As a special treat for the Year of the Pig, the Three Little Pigs will join the procession. Delicious Asian food and kid-friendly crafts and activities will be available as well.

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival showcases a bounty of flavors 

➤The vibrant Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival will return to the Disneyland Resort from March 1 through April 23, 2019. Seasoned foodies along with culinary newbies will delight in experiencing this eight-week celebration of California-inspired cuisines. Guests will enjoy indulging in favorite dishes and broadening their palettes with more than a dozen delicious Festival Marketplaces, featuring small plates, specialty wines and craft beers.

➤From celebrity chef appearances to family-friendly cooking demonstrations, there is something for connoisseurs of all ages to enjoy. In addition, children can participate in Junior Chef, a fun, hands-on “cooking” experience, specially designed for young chefs. Participants will receive a sweet surprise following the seminar.

Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind and Jessie’s Critter Carousel arrive at Pixar Pier

➤Guests have been enjoying Pixar Pier since it opened in June 2018, bringing the stories and characters of Disney•Pixar films to life with exciting attractions, themed neighborhoods and fun eateries. In 2019, Pixar Pier welcomes two additional attractions to complete the land: Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind and Jessie’s Critter Carousel.

This Pixar-inspired land is full of family-friendly fun, including the thrilling Incredicoaster, the popular Toy Story Mania! attraction and the beautiful Lamplight Lounge restaurant overlooking Paradise Bay. Guests have the opportunity to encounter characters from Disney•Pixar films, including Mr. Incredible and Mrs. Incredible and Edna Mode from “The Incredibles,” and Jessie and Woody from “Toy Story.” Even the iconic Pixar Lamp makes an appearance, atop the Pixar Pier marquee.

➤At Pixar Pier and at both theme parks, guests will be able to maximize their visits with Disney MaxPass, snagging digital Disney FastPass selections via the Disneyland app (subject to availability) and receiving unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos captured during the day.

Downtown Disney District continues promenade-wide transformation

➤The Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort is a fresh, one-of-a-kind Disney experience, immersing guests by day and night in an exciting mix of dining, shopping and entertainment that’s fun for all ages. The Downtown Disney District has been undergoing an exciting, promenade-wide transformation, including the opening of Splitsville Luxury Lanes, the Disney Home store, The Disney Dress Shop and Salt & Straw scoop shop, along with a reimagined design for the World of Disney store. Coming soon: a fresh, new look at Naples Ristorante e Bar plus two new dining locations, Ballast Point brewery and Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes.

Special event and ticket offers for Disneyland Resort are available here.