cynthiagraceLIVING-6

Do you remember the thrill of buying a 25¢ Surprise Bag when you were a kid? ✨ That's kinda what this is, a surprise bag Full of Joy! 🎉 and November Goodies 🎁 ✨, except it's free:)

Author

Kimberly Mooney
November 16, 2024

My go to holiday drink!

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Table of Contents



KENNY & DOLLY ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS 🎄
The spotify link will ask you to open in app (if you have spotify) 🤞

COFFEEpod

 Are you in a funk? Maybe this will encourage to think about what you think about🤔 and how to think about what you think about. Make sense?

A guide to refresh your mindset. 😊

EDITOR’S INSIGHT

I didn't see this coming, but I fell in love with another man this month. Right in front of my husband, actually right beside him. To be honest, I fell in love with 24 men. But hey, in my defence, so did he.❤️❤️

Let me lay the ground work here. At 9:00 pm every Wednesday night (my hubby is going to kill me for this but whatev…) Larry and I would hit the sack and have hot sex….JUST KIDDING 😜…we watched the Golden Bachelorette. 📺

These guys? Widowed, divorced, or never married—they all showed up looking for the same thing: a partner to share their lives with. And they were all there for Joan.

Ok, I know that the whole premise of the show -The Bachelorette is beyond dumb, but this season was different. Every episode left me applauding the bro bonding that was clearly unfolding between the guys. As for Joan Vassos, she may as well have just stayed home.

As dumb as it is, I’d take it one step farther. Imagine breaking down each of the 8 episodes into an 8 week Thursday morning deep dive discussion for high school students as to what friendship, respect, class, integrity, kindness, support and pure heart truly look like. The class? “Embracing life, Old School.”

I know reality shows are pretty much scripted, manipulated and produced up the ying yang, but I don’t think any amount of production could conjure up drama or harden the real ‘reality show’ that was unfolding: honest life long bonds between brothers.

Watching them, you couldn’t help but feel that they were teaching us all a thing or two about love, life, and finding happiness—at any age.

These men brought us a MASTER CLASS IN LIFE.

1. It’s Never Too Late for Love.
2. Real Connection and Friends Beats “Game” Any Day
3. Support Each Other, Even as Rivals. True Strength is in Lifting Each Other.
4. Embrace Every Moment. Life Passes Us By When We’re Not Looking.
5. Love Takes Courage - Giving Wounds Space to Heal.
6. There’s Power in Honesty, Integrity and Kindness.

And for the record, I still love Larry more ❤️❤️

SPOTLIGHT FEATURES

DR. SHAMI HARIHARAN, MD, MPH, ABOIM
Family Medicine and Integrative Medicine Physician.

❝

What is integrative medicine?

Integrative Medicine is healing-oriented medicine, which takes into account the whole person and all aspects of lifestyle that affect health and wellbeing.

These include, but are not limited to nutrition, movement, sleep, stress, sexual health, social support, and environmental health - these are all taken into account as we move through the different seasons of our lives.  Integrative medicine is evidence-informed and makes use of all appropriate therapies. 

From my perspective, it’s just good medicine.  ✔️   

A crucial player in wellbeing and balance of our mind, body and spirit is our daily level of stress and how we process this.  Stress is arguably the most prevalent disease in our society.  Chronic stress likely plays an important role in illnesses from heart disease to cancer to gut-related issues to depression and anxiety (to name a few). 

We only have so much control over many external factors in our lives; however, we do have control over our response to it - both our conscious response and the whole slew of subconscious events that happen in our mind and body when we are confronted with stressful situations.   

We can learn to rewire our nervous system and gain control once again by using mind-body practices.  This include things like guided meditation, breath-work, mantra meditation, mindfulness, guided imagery, movement meditations (e.g. Yoga, Qi Gong), and biofeedback.  

Creating a “morning practice” is one of the most powerful rituals I have personally adopted (and encourage others to do) for wellness.  It can look different for everyone and may include things like breath-work, meditation (so many different kinds - find one that resonates with you), being in nature, or mindful movement.  The common thread with these practices is the awareness and presence that they bring to our mind, body, and spirit.  

Just🌟5🌟minutes per day of a mindful practice produces physiologic changes in the body.🧠🫀🫁   Think of it like strength training for your nervous system.  If you lift weights for five minutes every day,  after a month or so you won’t only feel stronger during that few minutes, but the benefits will diffuse out into your day.  

Find a practice that you love, dedicate time (even if brief) to self care and setting the tone for your day, feel empowered and watch the benefits grow and unfold over time.❤️

Follow Dr. Shami on instagram:

damien MORRIS DESIGNS

damien Morris Designs shares some of their favorite tips to help you transform your home into a festive wonderland.

❝

The holiday season is here, bringing with it the warmth, joy, and timeless beauty of Christmas decor. This year, Christmas decorating trends are all about embracing natural elements, creating cozy atmospheres, and finding new ways to make your holiday decor feel both refreshing and familiar.

1. Bring Nature Indoors: A Return to Natural Beauty 🌲

Nothing sets the tone for a cozy holiday retreat quite like nature-inspired decor. This year, think beyond just the tree and incorporate natural elements throughout your home. damien Morris Designs suggests using wood, lush greenery, twigs, and branches to add an earthy, timeless charm. Pinecones, birch logs, and even sprigs of holly or mistletoe can add the perfect touch of winter magic. Try layering greenery on mantels, arranging pinecones in bowls, or placing small potted trees by entryways. These organic elements bring a grounded elegance that’s both inviting and festive.

2. Engage All the Senses: Creating a True Holiday Atmosphere 🎄 🕯

Holiday decorating is about more than just visual appeal—it’s a full sensory experience. damien Morris Designs suggests adding elements that evoke the traditional scents, sounds, and textures of the season. If you’re using an artificial tree, bring that authentic Christmas tree smell into your home with pine-scented candles or scenticles. The soft flicker of candles adds warmth, while rich holiday aromas like cinnamon, clove, and pine fill the air. Consider placing textured throws and pillows around living spaces for added comfort. Try playing subtle holiday music to create a warm, multi-sensory experience that feels like a festive embrace.

3. Think Outside the Box: Reimagine Your Decor Placement 💭 🤔

Sometimes, the key to freshening up your holiday decor is simply changing where and how you display it. damien Morris Designs encourages experimenting with new placements for your decorations to create a unique, eye-catching display. For example, if you typically only decorate your tree, try adorning unexpected places like windowsills, bookcases, stair railings, or kitchen counters. A string of lights around a window frame or a garland draped across a dining table centerpiece can transform a space. This reimagined approach brings a whimsical, festive touch to overlooked corners of your home, adding layers of charm and surprise.

So pretty ✨ ❅

I’m obsessing over all the candles ❤️❤️

4. Add Layers and Depth to Your Tree: Crafting a Showstopper

To create a beautifully full and captivating Christmas tree, layering is key. Start with a base of lights and than incorporate decorative picks, such as frosted berries, faux snow-covered branches, or sparkly twigs, for an eye-catching effect. Ribbon is also a must, but try cutting it into sections rather than using one long piece. This makes it easier to position and tuck within the tree for a sophisticated, layered look. Don’t forget to place some ornaments and decorations deeper inside the branches, as this adds both dimension and visual intrigue, making your tree appear rich and lush.

5. Make it Personal: Bring in Family Heirlooms and Handmade Touches 💖 💖

While trends are fun to follow, your decor should always feel personal and meaningful. damien Morris Designs recommends incorporating family heirlooms, handmade ornaments, or decorations from years past to add a sense of nostalgia and warmth. These touches help tell your family’s holiday story, adding depth and emotion to your decor. Whether it’s a beloved ornament passed down through generations or a handcrafted garland from a memorable trip, these items add character and a unique charm that store-bought decor simply can’t match. 

By layering natural elements, experimenting with new placements, and adding personal touches, your holiday decor can be a true expression of your style and spirit. damien Morris Designs invites you to embrace the beauty of nature, ignite your senses, and explore your creativity this Christmas season. Happy decorating, and may your holiday home be filled with warmth, beauty, and joyful memories!

LET’S SLEIGH THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING and unwrap the Season’s Hottest Finds!

CRZ YOGA PANTS. These buttery soft yoga pants are a massive amazon hit. Lulu quality minus the Lulu cost. And the feel? Oh la la. This link is for the shorter style because ‘hello’ I’m 4’11” and shrinking.

SUEDE LEATHER HOBO BAG. Boho is my love language and this Coach-Inspired Style is a Steal of a Deal! No I mean, really!

GOLD HOOP EARRING LITERALLY the only earrings I wear now. Obsessed.

ANRABESS WOMEN’S OVERSIZED CHUNKY SWEATER
 🎶 Chestnuts roasting by the open fire, I’m cozy in my chunky sweater. 🎶
Did you sing that sentence? Go back and try, I know you want to.

LUMINEUX TEETH WHITENING STRIPS. WOW is all I can say.
Ordered ✓ received ✓and used ✓ Yep, they are all that!!

Get Your Craft On 🎁

November 16 - Christmas craft fair extravaganza!

To all of you not here on PEI—I see you, I adore you! Even if it’s just in spirit. 😊 But for those close by, I couldn’t skip mentioning this chance to get your craft on! All happening on today’s drop day - November 16

Rice Point Women’s Institute Christmas Craft Fair 9:00 am
Donagh Regional Craft Fair 9:00 am
King’s Playhouse Holiday Fair and Market 9:00 am
Stratford School’s Craft Fair 9:00 am
Crapaud Christmas Craft Fair 9:00 am
Artisan’s Market for Mental Health & Addictions (Cymbria) 10:00 am
Bluefield Christmas Craft Fair 10:00 am
Gluten Free Holiday Market PEI Farm Centre 1:00 pm

PROTEIN ANYONE? 🍽

“If you have strong muscles, you have strong bones. Adequate protein is CRITICAL in keeping your bones and muscles strong. When your body is looking for amino acids (the building blocks of protein), it will chew up your muscle instead if there is none floating in your blood stream. Therefore our bones shrink. We need about 120 grams of protein per day. Strong over skinny for the win.”
Dr. Mary Claire Haver, MD

Essential Costco Picks for Quick Protein and Meals for Busy Lifestyles. Gary Brecka (12 minutes of EXCELLENT value)

and more PROTEIN.. . BAKED BEANS! YUM!! 🍜

ACADIAN RECIPES and more - volume 1
by Brian Cormier. This gem is for YOU!

Who is Brian Cormier you ask? This article will tell you exactly who he is, except they forgot one tiny important detail…..read on to find out why I’m so offended. 🧐

Global News
March 20, 2024

A New Brunswick man has found the perfect ingredients for a top-selling cookbook on Amazon while also sharing his Acadian culture and recipes.

“It’s overwhelming it is a little bit surprising,” said Brian Cormier, the author of the cookbook called Acadian Recipes and More.

At the end of February, Cormier released the Acadian recipe book 45 years to the day of his grandmother’s passing, who appears on the front cover proudly cooking up her infamous poutine rapeé.

The idea, Cormier said, was prompted by the 20,000 members of his Acadian Poutine Rapeé Facebook Group launched in honour of the popular Acadian dish.

“I have been mostly number one since it was released in the Canadian cooking category,” even beating out some celebrity chefs said Cormier. “People are buying it all over North America 20 per cent of the sales of from the United States,” he said.

Of course I had to see if his newfound fame was deserved, so I tried the Baked Beans recipe to start. Holy moly—absolutely to die for! Next up on my list: Molasses Cookies, Old Fashioned, page 28. And next after that -Meat Pie (acadian) for Christmas Eve. 😋

(Even my Mom said these were the best beans she ever had)

Q: So what tiny detail did Global News neglect to release on National Television about Brian Cormier?

A: He is my first cousin. 😊 🙃

He has since released 3 other cookbooks. You can find them all on Amazon!!

Congrats Cuz!

and more protein → You can use plain greek yogurt INSTEAD of mayo in your tuna. Who knew? 🤷‍♀️ Just add a dash of lemon juice, dry mustard, salt and pepper. Great for sandwiches, wraps or on top of salad.

DID YOU KNOW about this crazy hack?

Have you FLOCKED YOUR tree yet?

 
Ummm Pardon? Have I what my what? 

Flocking your artificial tree gives it that fresh, snow-dusted look! I tried it on an old tree last year, and WOW ✨ it instantly looked magical and brand new. Plus, it was super easy! If I can do it, I swear to you so can you!!

SUPPLIES: Elmers School Glue (must be elmers), Blue shaving cream from Dollar Store and two tablespoons of cornstarch.

DIRECTIONS: Mix two bottles of glue with one cup of blue shaving cream and two tablespoons of corn starch. Mix for about five minutes, then apply with a paint brush where ever you want and how much you want. You create your own flocked look.

BRAINBOOST 👀

Tis the season to give yourself some
brain-benefiting gifts with a festive
CHRISTMAS CROSSWORD.

AFFIRMATION

“I am grateful for the lessons I will learn today.”

DEEP THOUGHTS 💭

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Disclaimer: As an affiliate with amazon I do make commission on any purchases made through the links.

CASTING CALL 🎤

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Shine with kindness, act with purpose, and remember:
your journey is unique, and your presence makes a difference.

Let your spirit light the way.

Cherish Today.

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