in 2016 I made a simple resolution for myself to get healthy, accept help, and be happy. Although vague, I knew if I focused my mind on those simple concepts in multiple areas of my life, my actions would align.

Although it seems simple it was actually really hard. I ran in a lot of different directions, faced a lot of self doubt, resistance, discouragement, criticism and other signs pointing to, “Play it safe and just do what you have been doing up until now and hope for the best.”

Frankly, I didn’t want to be stuck there.

So I focused and worked. I worked at getting in shape, eating balanced, being vulnerable, being more present, expressing myself more, being happier, finding a spiritual path that I believed in, and working towards the things that I TRULY wanted in my life.

What a year it was when I put my focus on these three words: Health, help and happiness.

So for 2017 my resolution is to help others see their potential in this concept and join them to stay accountable towards their goals.

I am a firm believer that anything seemingly difficult can be broken down into simpler and more manageable systems.

Health, help and happiness.

Health is what fuels our bodies and minds to do remarkable things. Human bodies and minds were meant to do remarkable things!

Help is what everyone needs, I don’t care who you are. To think you can do anything alone is simply naive.

Happiness can be the result or goal in practicing the first two. By taking care of yourself first and then others, we can all be happier and more fulfilled in this life.

I thank all of my readers, contributors, and followers for being here and having a look from time to time and giving or taking what you feel.

Happy New Year!

My wish to you is health, help and happiness.

-Austin

A few days ago, I caught a picture from my friend, Brit, on good ol’ Facebook that stopped me dead in my scrolling. This bowl of bulgur wheat, mushrooms, veggies and spices just looked the the most perfect lunch, side or impromptu comforty meal.

Here’s what Brit says:

“I don’t ever post foodie photos but this was too good to not share. Sometimes not having a plan for what to make and using only what you have kicking around is the most gratifying. Bulgur wheat, toasted pine nuts, onion, garlic, peppers, mushrooms, and a tablespoon of organic spirulina powder. This dish should take no longer than 10-15 total to prepare and cook!  Some other additions that would be great are chopped cauliflower and maybe some chicken!”

Recipe:

Makes about 2 servings

Ingredients

• 1 Cup Bulgur Wheat, cooked
• 7-8 Chestnut Mushrooms, chopped
• 7-8 Mini Sweet Bell Peppers, chopped
• 1 Onion, chopped
• 1 Clove of Garlic, chopped
• 2 Tablespoons Toasted Pine Nuts
• Dash of Turmeric
• Sea Salt and Black pepper
• 1 Tablespoon of Organic Spirulina Powder

Directions

1. In a pan on medium heat, heat olive oil and saute onions until soft (3-5 minutes)t hen added in garlic and peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes.
2. Add in pine nuts, salt and pepper and a dash of turmeric.
3. Add in mushrooms and cover.
4. Turn down heat and add in bulgur wheat. Cook on low until mushrooms are tender.
5. Once mushrooms and veggies are cooked, add in spirulina powder.
6. Stir on low heat for a couple more minutes, season to taste, and you’re done!