Since we are into March...

Since we are into March by more than a few days, it may be a grand time to look back on your New Year's goals and resolutions to see how you are doing. You probably had some clearly defined aspirations put to words back in January. But did you have an undeniable vision to go with it? When you put your words to a painted mural in your mind so you can see, feel, taste, smell, and hear the activity or results of your worded desires, you stand a far greater chance of succeeding with your own wishes.

The last time you were on a diet, did you keep a picture of yourself in your head as a slim, trim, and healthy person. You could see yourself in a new outfit looking so fine, dancing the night away without a moment of fatigue? It's a great vision, and one a seriously healthy conscious individual would focus upon to get through the tough workout and find the strength to pass on dessert. With the picture front and center of your self talk, your chances of success increase tremendously.

It's also a must to celebrate your successes and achievements when you reach your milestones. Here are a few ways you can do it!

• Keep your traditions and add new ones so you can create awesome memories. Indulge in a few favorite activities.
• Indulge yourself occasionally...make it a small treat whether it's a dining item or an activity.
• Take time for yourself...read a book, get a manicure, go for a walk, something just for you.
• Dare to dream big...whatever it is...go for it. Write that novel, prepare the presentation, start a business, take up a new hobby, learn something new.

Make yourself a cup of Watkins Chai Latte , you can even add a 1/4 tsp. of Watkins Vanilla Extract to it for added yumminess! And then you will be adequately indulged so you can make a batch of Cranberry Gingerbread Muffins for a treat later!

Cranberry Gingerbread Muffins
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup pack brown sugar
2 tsp. Watkins Ginger
1 tsp. Watkins Baking Powder
1 tsp. Watkins Cinnamon
3/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 egg
2/3 cup water
1/2 cup fat free plain yogurt (could substitute applesauce)
1/3 cup molasses
1/4 cup Watkins Grapeseed Oil
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed and quartered

In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. In a small bowl, combine the egg, water, yogurt, molasses and oil. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in cranberries.

Coat muffin cups with Watkins cooking Spray or use liners; fill 3/4 full with batter. Sprinkle with wash raw sugar (the big crystals) for fun. Bake at 350 degrees for 18 to 22 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack.