RECIPES

Recipe: Vanilla Chai Protein Powder Chia Seed Pudding

IMG_4854Have you heard of chia seeds? You probably have and you don’t even know it – think “ch-ch-ch-chia.” Yep, crazy to believe, but the seeds behind your beloved Chia pet also have rockstar status in the superfood world. Nutrients found in chia seeds include omega fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, calcium and protein. Don’t believe me? Read this blog entry on chia seeds from Dr. Oz’s team.

Continue Reading

SOCIAL MEDIA

Social Media: How To Make An Exclusive Announcement on Instagram

Sochi-Molson_CanadianInstagram-Oscar3For my weekly Social Image of the Week column on Convince&Convert, I’m covering three examples of how to make an announcement on Instagram. Sure, you could issue a press release, but to learn how The Office’s B.J. Novak, The Calgary Zoo and Oscar de la Renta successfully generated awareness and news coverage through creative exclusives on Instagram, please click here to read the post.

To see more of my past Social Image of the Week columns on Convince&Convert, click here.

RECIPES

Updated Recipe: Apricot Almond Muffins via Choosing Raw

IMG_1002I previously wrote about this amazing grab ‘n’ go breakfast muffin recipe during May 2013, but made them again last night and couldn’t resist re-sharing!

I love experimenting with new cooking and baking techniques. While I’m an equal opportunity eater (e.g. meat, dairy), I have no problem going vegetarian or vegan for a meal or baked good depending on my mood and cravings. During an especially busy week, I made these delightful apricot almond muffins to grab & go for my morning commute. Discovered on the Choosing Raw blog, they are made with a mix of flour, almond flour, dried apricots, coconut oil and more. Let’s just say that I loved them and they also passed the roommate test!

Continue Reading

SOCIAL MEDIA

Social Media: The Cutest Instagram Account Ever Just Got Better

IMG_4764Between my job, freelance writing and upcoming book, I’m constantly looking for inspiring examples of visual content to share. In working on a Fourth of July column for Convince&Convert, I discovered what might be my favorite Instagram account yet, @trotterpup. On a platform where images of cute pets are ubiquitous, this sassy French Bulldog continues to delight me with her ability to transform. One day she’s a lady in a floppy hat in heels, and other day she’s donning Minnie Mouse ears and hosting a contest to send people to Disney. You can’t help but smile at each photo.

The photos are a great reminder to companies that creativity, originality and a fantastic subject will always stand out. The simplicity yet powerfulness of each image is also remarkable. The clever ensembles, combined with the expression from @trotterpup, transform into a visual story vignette complete with its leading lady.

As a result of the gorgeous imagery, it’s no surprise to see this lovely pup do sponsored posts and content partnerships with brands.

So, imagine my delight when I discovered that the owners of @trotterpup have brought a new puppy into the mix. Named @winter, he’s so stinking cute. I can’t wait to see what additional great images will come with this adorable new pup!

Trotterpup's Instagram Account

Trotterpup’s Instagram Account

Best. Photo. Ever. Looking at it makes me smile.

Best. Photo. Ever. Looking at it makes me smile.

 

TRAVEL

Travel: A Photo From Miami, FL

IMG_4716

Just as another Boston snowstorm rolled in, I was lucky enough to escape to Miami, Florida. Although it was rainy and I was inside for meetings most of the trip, I was fortunate to savor this moment. After the rain stopped, the clouds parted and the sun came out with a surprise – this rainbow! Palm trees, warm weather, a great water view AND a rainbow? Not sure I’m ready to go back to the frozen tundra that is Boston!