So I said I was going to keep things simple for the rest of the week because I’m trying to write two weeks ahead since I’ll be on vacation next week. With my husband. Alone. (Digression but the only thing keeping me sane right now.)

And, of course, if you know me, which if you read this blog, you do . . . Then you know this is a tall order. I don’t work two weeks ahead on anything.

Way back when, I once posted recipes because I love to cook and I’m always on the hunt for food everyone in my house will like. Which is not much but that’s my problem, not yours. We’ll discuss picky eaters on another day – as in, YOU can tell ME what to do with that one.

So keeping in alignment with our “taking care of you” theme this week, I thought it might be a good time to share about my favorite obsession . . .

Smoothies.

A while ago, Jason got on this whole Vitamix kick and I sorta just rolled my eyes about it because well . . . Sometimes we get on kicks for a while. That’s all I’ll say on that one.

However, after a few weeks of using said Vitamix I realized it might have been the best purchase we’ve made in a long time.

I’ve made soups, dips, pureed veggies, heck, I even think the thing would do my laundry. (Sorry, dreaming just a bit here.)

But smoothies are my favorite because they pack a strong punch – lots of protein, healthy carbs, and vitamins in a good smoothie AND it’s portable. This is pretty much a must in my world because trying to get three kids out the door by 7:30 each morning is like herding cats on an episode of “Beat the Clock.”

So we start with this stuff:

* Some kind of whey protein powder – we use Optimum Nutrition (chocolate) and Jay Robb (vanilla) but there are a bazillion brands out there

* Favorite fruits: strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are great options and frozen work just fine, too. Bananas are perfect for smoothies, too.

* Natural peanut butter – I like the texture of the chunky version but that’s up to you as well

* Maca powder – read this article before you use maca. It’s good stuff – it raises energy, libido (you’re welcome, husbands) and helps with PMS symptoms (you’re welcome, sisters AND husbands) BUT it must be eaten 1) earlier in the day and 2) in small amounts. I just use one teaspoon every other day because too much can lead to hormonal imbalance and for crying out loud . . . I don’t need any more of that.

* Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk

* Water and ice cubes

Here’s my very own recipe for . . .

The Funky Chunky Monkey Smoothie

Throw the following into a blender:

1 scoop chocolate whey protein powder

1 tablespoon of natural peanut butter

1/2 cup of unsweetened vanilla almond milk

1/4 cup water

A few ice cubes to keep it cold (the Vitamix goes so fast it actually heats it up without the ice cubes so if you have one, don’t forget the ice!)

1 tsp. maca (start with 1/2 tsp. and work your way up)

1 banana

Blend it all together. Pour it in a cup. Yum.

Now. If you are trying to save calories, leave the banana out and have it as a mid-morning snack.

Vanilla protein powder is great with berries – just follow the above recipe and leave out the peanut butter and banana. Put a handful of berries in and voila!

Smoothie on.

So what about you? Are you a smoothie lover and if so, what’s your favorite?