Spring has sprung!

Check out the blooming cherry blossoms in the Portland Japanese Garden!

A friend of mine once told me that if I were ever homesick, I should search for things in my environment that remind me of home. Cherry blossoms are my symbol of home. One of my favorite activities as a kid was to walk through the rows of cherry blossoms in the park by my house. Gazing up at those cotton like mounds of pastel pink always made me feel so special; As if the rarity of these perennial beauties were made for me and me alone.

I encourage you to take my friend's advice. Find something (or someone) in your environment that transforms your perspective - instantly taking you to a place where you feel safe and at ease.

Spring is all about new beginnings. Use what the season represents to remind yourself that you're worthy and to never settle for anything less!

Q: What kinds of meals and/or snacks are easy to make if I am going to switch to making meals on my own and not get Bon/Troom food?

A: Some snacks that I adore are kind bars, fruit (the Bon offers bananas, apples, and oranges that I indulge in on a daily basis), yogurt with fruit and granola in it, and SkinnyPop. I know they are not the best for you but I also love things like Cup O’ Noodles, Hot Pockets, and Bagel Bites. You can also never go wrong with grilled cheeses; They are heavenly and can be made on a stovetop. The fastest, easiest, and most inexpensive dishes that I make for myself are pasta dishes. Pasta with precooked chicken sausages, sautéed broccoli, zucchini, or spinach are always a staple for me. I also use instant rice packets or Annie’s mac n cheese and pair that with my favorite vegetables or bean salad. If you’re really not feeling up to cooking, one of the easiest meals that I like to make for myself is what I like to call “Bougie College Ramen”. The only ingredients you need are an egg, frozen dumplings, and your favorite instant noodles. Boil the egg and the frozen dumplings then combine those items with the noodles and there you have it; A meal that is easy, yummy, and won’t break the bank. When in doubt, Trader Joes has some great frozen food options that are inexpensive. I am not ashamed to say that I am in love with their mac n cheese.