Today started off beautifully. I woke up to a winter wonderland. We got approximately 16 inches of snow…a few days late, would have preferred this on Christmas morning. Is there anything better than a White Christmas? But the storm was sandwiched nicely between Christmas and New Year’s, so it counts as festive and inspiring.

I have been on a running kick lately. I ran 3.5 miles on Christmas Eve, 3.5 miles the day after Christmas and 3.5 miles today. It has actually made the holidays that much more enjoyable because I can eat ALL the goodies I want without feeling any of the guilt. I have been in PJ’s since Saturday morning, only changing into running clothes, then showering and slipping right back into my pajamas. I don’t know about you, but this has been the absolute perfect way to spend the holidays.

I was just reading the January issue of SELF with Jillian Michaels on the cover. There was one particular paragraph that really jumped out at me and I just HAD to share it.

Be fearless. If you make only one resolution this year, let it be to live boldly. You control this moment: Rather than cautiously test the water, dive straight into life with freeing abandon. Imagine the person you want to be and the life you want to live, then simply commit to them. Believe in yourself. Embrace your beauty. Discover a new passion. And whatever you do, wherever you go, don’t be afraid to make a splash. (p. 24)

Also, I spent today’s treadmill session watching an episode of The Biggest Loser. Am I the only one who cries when the contestants get to see their family after they have lost significant amounts of weight? I was crying on the treadmill! Luckily I was at home instead of at the gym. I have been known to laugh out loud while watching something humorous at the gym, but crying?! I need to maintain some semblance of cool at the local Y.

So here is my advice to you: Be healthy, be fearless and be who you’ve always wanted to be (even if it means crying on the treadmill).

And I know the holidays have passed but there are still opportunities to give gifts (housewarming parties, holiday parties, family visits) so here is a little suggestion that has a beautiful cause behind it. Tea Forte is my all-time favorite tea and there is honestly nothing better than having a cup of tea at the end (or the beginning) of the day! The proceeds from these Tea Forte Gift Sets go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Because the true meaning of the holidays is sharing love and helping others. Happy Holidays!