Chewy Pro Brownies

Ingredients:

• 1 can pumpkin
• 1/2 cup egg whites
• 1/2 cup egg protein powder
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 8 pitted dates 

Topping Optional:

• 4 squares dark chocolate bar or chips (at least 60% or greater)
• Handful of walnuts (48 grams)

Directions:
Preheat the oven at 350 degrees. 

In a food processor or blender, add the can of pumpkin, egg whites, protein powder, cocoa, and dates. Blend all ingredients. Using non-stick spray, lightly cover the pan. Now add the mixture along with the walnuts into the pan.

Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes 
Finally, while it is still hot, melt the chocolate bar over the top of the brownies. Cool and store in fridge or freezer. That is....if it last that long :)

Quantity: 16 bars

(Macros include half dark chocolate bar and handful walnuts)

Calories 109
Fat: 4 g
Protein: 5 g
Carbs: 13 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugars 10 g

Progress vs. Perfection

It’s easy to get caught up in the world’s perception of what it means to be ideal.

Please take a moment and define what an ideal person is to you?

 The world has a skewed belief that ideal is someone who embodies power, beauty, and strength. We see it on social media, gracing the pages of magazines, slogans on workout t-shirts, and finally words from our peers. We can’t deny the part of us that enjoys picking up a magazine longing to be that flawless model. How many times have you tried a Facebook or Pinterest latest social media craze: “Super Skinny Me” or “Boost Your Booty.” Perhaps, you worked out for seven day straight only to jump on the scale to find no weight loss obtained. You then race back to the gym for another two-hour workout. The vicious condemnation cycle continues. And you then think to yourself, anything other than perfection is nothing short of complete utter failure…

 The fact is we our constantly being fed lies- to strive for what I consider to be unrealistic and unattainable standards. Strive for progress not perfection. Each day, wake up, look in mirror, and see the masterpiece being reflected. You are a masterpiece. You are of value. Stop negative shaming self-talk and speak truth. Let your inner beauty shine bright.

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10