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So we all know how I complain about March almost constantly, right?

Ok, cool.

But probably the worst part of March is that it's the beginning of spring, and the beginning of spring, means warmer weather and that means I can't hide my extra "cookies and ice cream pounds" under a sweater anymore.

It's devastating, I tell you.

I'm not alone in this, either. Several people I've spoken with in the last few weeks are on diets, or doing a new program or something to better their health, and I think that's just wonderful.

Having a healthy lifestyle is so, so important. It's important for your body to function the way it's supposed to. It's important to be able to move around and enjoy activities, no matter what age you are. It's important to feel and look good in the clothes you wear.

More importantly than all of those things, is to enjoy your life with those you love.

If that's not a reason enough for you to maybe not eat a bowl of ice cream every night, then I don't know what is.

So here's my soap box conclusion:

Eat your veggies. Drink lots of water. Move your body. The End.

Moving on (Sorry about that little derail, I'm only human).

A couple weeks ago, I heard from one of my readers, and she was asking about my favorite popcorn recipe, because she and her husband were on a diet and looking for healthier alternatives for snacks.

It occurred to me that over my years of trying different things and making healthy options, I have a solid handful of healthy snacks that I've incorporated into my regularly scheduled programming.

So this week, and probably again in April, I am sharing some of my original recipes, straight from my kitchen that I've tweaked to delight. This has been a labor of love, but I’m so proud to share my own recipes!

Disclaimer: These are my favorite snacks, so if you don't like them, I'm sorry.

Truffle Popcorn.

I'm just gonna throw this one in here for a refresher.

I use one of these poppers, and I put a little swirl (about a tablespoon) of cooking oil in the bottom.

Then I throw 1/3 cup of popping corn in there and put the whole thing in the microwave for 4 minutes, stopping to listen for 2 second intervals between pops during the last minute.

I personally top with truffle oil and some salt to taste, but if you're looking for a lower calorie option, Molly McButter is delicious and gives you that buttery flavor (and it's 5 calories a serving!). Elliot makes his with chili-infused oil and cheese. He can’t be tamed.

You can also use Ranch seasoning, parmesan cheese, cheddar popcorn topping powder, or anything you like!

Broccoli Tots.

These might be my new favorite thing in the world. They're like tater tots, but with veggies. SO GOOD.

You can download the recipe here!

Notes.

1 WW point per tot

I used a food processor to "rice" the broccoli, or chop it into "super-fine" pieces (how you doin'? omg my jokes are so bad I'm sorry).

I also used an air-fryer for this recipe. If you don't have one, you can totally bake them on a baking sheet and throw them in the oven at 400, and bake for 7-8 minutes on each side.

But....you should get an air fryer. HIGHLY recommend.

Also, I wanted some extra cheese flavor and used crushed up Cheez-It's one time, and I will never go back. So use whatever bread crumbs you like, whether it's panko, whole wheat, gluten free, or some crushed up Ritz crackers. The world is your oyster.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Energy Balls.

These are so satisfying. The best part of baking cookies is the dough, and these are guilt-free. They’re loaded with protein, and are perfect for those of us who have a serious sweet tooth! They have 5 ingredients, and take less than 20 minutes to whip up a batch. Download the recipe here!

Notes.

3 WW points per energy ball

You can use any nut butter, and any kind of protein you want!

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31

“Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:4