Valentine’s Day: Something Special

February is a big a month for me. My wife’s birthday is on the 5th, which is also the same day that I lost my mother to her battle with breast cancer. My niece’s birthday is on the 14th and my mother’s birthday is on 17th, which is also the day we laid her to rest. And let’s not forget Valentine’s Day, the special day we take time to express our gratitude and love to the special people in our lives

This Valentine’s, I want to do more than make something special for my wife, or wish my sisters or nieces a Happy Valentine’s Day. I would like to take a moment to remember my mom, and think about all the special moments that we shared together and over the phone. If I’m up to it, maybe I will listen to the voicemails she left me on my phone, which I am so thankful that I kept. Maybe you have someone special to remember as well.

Yes, it is sad, and still very hard for me but what helps to make me content is treasuring all these memories and knowing that she is in a better place, pain-free and smiling down on her family. After all, St. Valentine was martyred for ministering to and marrying couples who were being persecuted in ancient Rome. Love and loss often go together, but love is always worth it.

Caring for your special someone’s health, by making something delicious yet nutritious, is one way to show them that you love them. That’s why I plan to make this delicious, healthy Valentine’s Breakfast smoothie for Theresa, to start her day off right.

Beet Berry Smoothie

1 Cup Steamed Beets
8 oz Frozen Mixed Berries or Frozen Strawberries (much sweeter)
1 Banana
1 – 1 1/2 cup Almond Milk
1 Tbsp Honey (optional)
1 Scoop of Garden of Life Vegan Vanilla Protein
1 tsp Nutmeg

Steam the beets until soft and tender. Combine all the ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until it’s smooth. Add more nut milk if the consistency is too thick. Serve and enjoy!

Tools you’ll need:

 

Then I’m going to surprise Theresa with some of her favorite chocolate from the Nuttery in NY. I can’t wait!

Here’s hoping you have a sweet February. If you’d like to catch up on more tips and advice for healthy eating and cooking like a chef, be sure to check out my blog and follow me on Instagram at OfficialChefT.

And always remember Eat with a Purpose!

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