Winter is nearly upon us. For me winter and the cold weather and bare trees can be a severe downer. I think this winter in particular can get to us if we let that happen. So, the usual suggestions do not apply obviously. We are not going to gather with friends or go to the movies. We are not going to go out for lunch and a big fun, shop. We can’t even go for a walk on many chilly or rainy days.

What will we do to keep our chins up and move forward? Well, I am not going to sit in front of the TV. I am better than that. OK, maybe not much better, but some. I love to read. Get some books on line or for your kindle. I know this can add up to $$$ so maybe trade books with a friend or neighbor or go to the library if yours is open. Our library will now let you check out books on line and pick up at a window. Pretty cool.

I have done at least three house deep cleans just for something to do, but I am now to the rearranging decor yet again. Believe it or not, I kind of enjoy that. Also, Christmas is coming so maybe go up to the attic or down to the basement and check out your stuff. I did this with my grandson and he loved it. We spent a whole afternoon thinking about where things might go. He wanted to do it again this weekend so yes!! of course.

I always carry a bag in my car in case I meet a homeless woman. Don’t sound surprised. It happens to me about twice a month because my husband and I volunteer at a thrift shop in a marginal neighborhood. Why don’t you make up a couple of bags to have in your car or make up some bags to take to your local homeless shelter. I can promise you they are open for business.

Perhaps my biggest hope for these times to come is that I am able to keep optimistic. Attitude is of huge importance. No matter what your politics or your current situation, there is something to be grateful for. Try to find it and expand on what you are feeling in the gratitude section of your daily life.

The only difference between a good day and a bad day is YOU! My daughter has a sign on her front door that says: “Today Is a Good Day For Having A Good Day.” Do your best to keep upbeat, as cheerful as you can be to others, and open to good suggestions. Your Good Day can easily become a good day for anybody else you come into contact with!!

I know it has been a while since we last posted on this BLOG and for that I am really sorry. PINK Magazine has, of course, continued to publish and my articles have appeared monthly, but the BLOG has been sadly neglected. We are back in all categories, and we hope that you will try us out, or return if you were a regular. Again please accept apologies and Welcome Back!

Here are some more recipes from the Four Ingredient Cookbook that are fast and easy. Boy, time savers that are also tasty and do not look nearly as easy as they must be some kind of a gift, right?

Pineapple Coconut Sherbet

1. 2 cans (8 oz.) of unsweetened crushed pineapple drained (I save the juice for smoothies)
2. 2 cups non-fat vanilla yogurt (Obviously you can use any other yogurt but I use the Okinos 80 calorie pineapple yogurt ,duh!)
3. 1/2 cup shredded coconut-I use the sweetened
4. 2 Tablespoons honey
5. Combine all ingredients and stir well. Pour into a shallow pan and freeze until soft set. Pour into a bowl and beat for appx. 4 minutes. Pour into a container with a cover and freeze solid. Soften at room temp. for about 15 minutes before serving. This is really tasty and simple. Top with a bit of Cool Whip for a fancy touch.

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Chocolate Express

Boy, is this ever GOOD!

1. 6 Tablespoons chocolate liqueur (Or something else you like-brandy, bourbon, etc.)
2. 1 envelope plain unflavored gelatin
3. 1 1/2 cups black coffee
4. 2 cups fat free chocolate ice cream

Combine liqueur and gelatin in a blender container. Wait for 1 minute for gelatin to dissolve a bit then add hot coffee. Blend until gelatin granules are all dissolved. Add ice cream and blend until smooth and pour into four servers, custard cups, etc, and chill until set.

Obviously you can really make this with any ingredients to your own taste. Do watch proportions though.