Today is International Coffee Day. It's a day to appreciate the bean and the enjoyment it brings to us on a daily basis, however you drink it.
According to the Coffee Association of Canada, coffee is the number one beverage choice for adult Canadians. 
The CAC says, "a cup of coffee before you exercise can boost performance, help you stay hydrated and reduce exercise related fatigue.'
Well, it is the first thing I go to when I wake up and it's also what I look forward to in the afternoon. It accompanies a good book, a conversation between friends or an energy booster for workouts. I can attest to that! Yesterday, I had a hockey game, so I downed a cup before I played and it gave me the boost I needed. I went from moderate energy to feeling charged up.
Whatever is on your to-do list today, enjoy a cup of coffee.   
Here's to a good brew, however you enjoy it!
#internationalcoffeeday 

I love summer. I love everything about it, the heat, the fresh meals, the outdoors...yet there is something about autumn that takes precedence over the calendar year. Probably because school always starts after labour day. For BC families though, the teacher's strike has prolonged summer break and starting today, September 22, the kids are finally going back to school after a three-month vacation. 
I'm happy because my family will be on a schedule and everyone does better when there is an expectation to be met. A school year gives everyone a fresh start to organize and plan ahead. For myself, it means having a writing schedule which helps me to achieve my goals. 
So, as I sit on my back deck enjoying the sunshine, I am also thrilled to be back into a routine. I'll change my white wine for red, my flip-flops for boots and an earlier bedtime means early mornings. 
Here's to cooler weather, baked meals and warmer beverages. Enjoy the change!

One of the things I enjoy doing is baking for my family. I like to make sure they are eating healthy food and in my opinion, homemade food is the best choice. 

I made this apple loaf when I had company over and was asked for the recipe. I thought I'd share it with you.

I am honoured to be included in Sparkle, an inspirational handbook for young girls. I'm among 30 British Columbia women who are featured in this outstanding book coming out this fall. Each woman tells their own story of the struggles and attributes of growing up in their teenage years and how they reached their goals, becoming the person they are known for today. This book has resources, exercises and practical advice for creating healthy habits, goal setting and promoting self-image. 
Country music singer and entrepreneur, Kristal Barret-Stuart is a testimony to rising above hardship and accomplishing her goals. She is the most positive person I know and is a magnet for happiness. A true giver and caring person who is living her dream by helping young girls. 
As a mom of two girls, ages four and six, they are starting to be aware of body image and different personalities among their peers. Building self-esteem and healthy habits is something I'm committed to teaching my daughters. I believe that if we install the positive messages at a young age and continue to teach the importance of a positive self-image, there would be more acceptance and less focus on trying to be like everyone else. Being an individual is how these women have accomplished their goals and dreams.
Here's to the Sparkle project. I wish Kristal a very successful outcome as she embarks on this new adventure and in hopes of creating a positive movement for young girls.

http://www.personalityplusservices.ca/the-women-of-sparkle-an-inspirational-handbook-for-young-girls/  
   

BOOK LAUNCH PARTY

For those of you who live in Langley, or in the lower mainland, and would like to join me for my book launch party, you're invited!
Here are the details:

JOIN ME ON Wednesday, September 3 FROM 6:30-8 AT
Porter's Bistro Coffee & Tea House
21611- 48 Ave, Langley
http://porterscoffeehouse.ca

I will reading and giving away copies of my book. You are welcome to have a beverage and dessert.

Today is a big day for me. It's the day my dreams have become reality and I can finally say I'm a published author.
My book, His Game, Her Rules, is out today in digital and paperback form. Yes, paperback! Available through Amazon or Barnes & Noble, you can now order it. 
I hope you enjoy reading my book. 
Thank you for your support!