by Kripa Watts

Here we are again, at the end of another revolution of the annual clock.  The thought of a New Year fills us with excited anticipation for all of the good things that we hope will come to pass.  It is natural that we look forward to saying goodbye to aspects of our life that have not proven to be ideal, while welcoming the possibility of new and positive experiences.   Only one thing is certain, and that is the fact that there will be change.  Setting intention for the New Year is about committing to changing those things over which we do have some control.  As Mary Engelbriet says, “If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it.”  I love this quote because it reminds us that, even though a situation may seem insurmountable, we always have the power to change our relationship to that situation by simply changing our attitude toward it.

We are the only ones who can take an honest inventory of our life to date and decide where we will resolve to change.  Rather than focus on a list of suggestions that you might make your own, I offer the following tips that I have found valuable in seeing intentions really take root.  The first is simply to use the power of your imagination.  If you make a broad resolution to become healthier in the New Year, take a few moments to reflect on what your life will look like when you realize that goal.  Imagine the new, healthier you as though it is a reality.   See yourself as radiant and energized, engaged in activities that support your aim.  Perhaps imagine yourself taking long hikes in an area that nourishes your spirit, or participating in a dance class surrounded by enthusiastic and loving friends.  Whatever your pleasure, imagine it as though it was already here, right now.  Start to trust that you will be guided toward decisions and connections that will support your efforts.

Secondly, it is tremendously helpful to support others in achieving their dreams and goals, just as you would wish to be supported in your own.  Eliminate all thoughts of limitation that you may have unconsciously imposed upon others.  The aphorism, ‘a rising tide lifts all boats’ is a simply stated truth, and all will benefit when goodness prevails.   Each of us cultivates a unique ‘energy signature’ which is empowered by our thoughts, words and actions.  By thinking, speaking and acting abundantly, kindly or helpfully toward others, we naturally attract those same qualities in our own life.  This is not a new type of thinking, but rather time tested and proven. In the 4^th Century, St Basil stated the same idea thus, "A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love."

With that said, we at MegaFood wish all good things for you, your family and community at large.  We hope that your New Year will be rich with potential and filled with the realization of all of the goals of goodness you set out to achieve.  Wishing you a very Happy and Healthy New Year!

Every holiday season I have friends come to stay at our house over Christmas.  We share stories around the fire, sit outside under the crisp starry skies of the desert and feast together.  It is a magical, warm, sharing time that we all look forward to.  To add to the feeling of tradition that has been woven into these special 'coming together times', we have certain special dishes, both sweet and savory, that have become reserved almost exclusively for this time of the year.  One of the all round favorites is my friend Fiona's Walnut Cheddar Loaf.  This is a substantial and hearty offering that would be utterly acceptable as a stand alone dish with a healthy serving of greens on the side.  I wanted to share the recipe with you and encourage you to let us know if you tried it and what your thoughts are.

Combine and set aside the following:

3 cups (packed) fresh whole wheat bread crumbs

1 cup (packed) ground walnuts

1 cup finely chopped walnuts

½ cup nutritional yeast

2 TBS Tamari

½ cup tomato juice

Saute the following on medium heat until translucent:

4 TBS butter

2 ½ large finely chopped onions

3-4 large garlic cloves, minced

Combine all the above with:

2 well beaten eggs

1 Cup (packed) grated cheese

1/4-1/2 tsp salt

½ tsp. pepper

2 TBS dried parsley or 3/4 cup minced fresh parsley

Press into a well-oiled loaf pan and and bake at 350 degrees for appx 1 hour. Cover top of loaf with ½ cup grated chedder cheese. Bake for 10 mins until cheese is bubbly. Serve with mushroom gravy and love.