September Newsletter

Written by Robyn Holder Robyn Holder
Published: 27 September 2021 27 September 2021



Thank You For Your Order!

“Hey Robyn, thank you for your order!  Hope you’re doing great!”

Can you hear the joy I felt as I read this note on a packing slip from Brooks, one of the farmers/owners at my organic meat farm, North Mountain Pastures?  Brooks knows the value of good customer service and positive affirmations!

Recent science is proving the value of positive thinking on all aspects of our lives.  What we think often translates into how we feel and how our body responds.  With the latest health concerns, thinking more positively, expressing gratitude, having a friendly attitude, and simply being joyful (sometimes hard to do, I know!) can improve our cardiovascular system, refresh our nervous system, and increase the functioning of our immune system.  All good things!

Positive thinking can also affect our physical needs and status.  When we are in a positive frame of mind, we are better able to resist less than healthy foods, which are usually sugar-laden carbohydrates.  The science here is that carbs increase our serotonin levels – our “feel good” chemical, and that’s why our brain tells us to eat them!  You know…that voice in your head! Improving the health of your food will lessen the desire for lower end carbs. Think of healthy proteins, good fats, lots of vegetables, and some fruits.

If you struggle with how to be positive, some easy things you can try are:

  • Simply refresh your facial expression to a smile! Seriously, this tricks your brain into thinking you are happy.
  • Look for a good point in parts of your day, and vocalize these. Tell yourself you’re having a good day, or you just made a dynamic presentation, etc.
  • In your mirror each morning, tell yourself, out loud, “I’m a terrific person!” or even something as simple as “Hey, I look great today!”. Your brain listens, trust me!
  • Keep a gratitude journal (I know, faithful readers have read this before). It works!  And, if you are having a less than stellar day, you can go back and read positive and thankful entries.

At a restaurant I visited recently, the sales receipt came with this message at the bottom.  I saved it to share with you.  It’s a wonderful message! “Thank you! We are blessed beyond measure.”

Feel Good Peach Crisp (or Apple Crisp)

This is a tried-and-true recipe that I’ve used so often, the paper it is written on is crumbling! 

Peaches are still in season, but beginning to wane, so you can use the same recipe with apples.

Ingredients for Filling:

  • 6 large peaches (about 3 pounds), sliced
  • ¼ cup sugar (I like coconut sugar or stevia)
  • 2 T flour (try almond, coconut, or a similar type of flour)
  • ¼ t. cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or your favorite sweeter spices
  • Butter or Olive or coconut oil (for the casserole dish)

Preheat over to 400 degrees.  In a large bowl, toss peaches with the sugar, flour and spices.  Place into an 8x8 or 9x13 sized casserole dish that has been coated with butter or oil.

Crumb Topping:

  • 3 T butter (organic, definitely!)
  • 1/3 cup flour (same as above)
  • 3 T sugar (same as above)
  • Cinnamon and spices above, to taste

In a small bowl, combine the butter, flour and sugar, plus spices, with your hands to mix into a coarse crumb mixture.  Spread on top of peach filling. Place in pre-heated oven for 25-30 minutes, till peach mixture is bubbly and crumb topping is golden brown.  Serve warm.  Makes 5 servings.  Great for fall dessert!

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