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This year I'm trying to up my Christmas game.

Not in the sense of buying presents (so far we have zero presents under the tree and one gift purchased for each kid) or decorating (it's the season of simplify), but in preparing my heart for the birth of the One we've been waiting on.

Obviously, I know Jesus is "the reason for the season." I know we are celebrating his birth.

But I forget that his coming is to literally bring peace, joy and hope to us. Not only on December 25 (which should technically be in the spring, but...details) but all year long. He came to redeem the brokenness in the world.

We do, indeed, have so much brokenness right now.

But we also have hope. Hope that we can move out of the unrest, which manifests itself in relationships, politically, and even how we treat one another.

My personal challenge is to keep turning toward the promise of Jesus. We can find peace. Hope. Love. This is why he came.

So this week, I'm giving you permission to sit in the peace. To pause in the middle of the chaos and remember why he came. Not to add one more thing to your to-do list, but to rest in what's already been done.

I'll be back at the beginning of the year, but for now, take a breath. Fix your eyes on Jesus. And let yourself receive the gift he's already given.

Let's dive into our Nourishing Notes.

1️⃣ My Go-To "Bring Something to Share" Dish This Season

(Also good for "make once and enjoy several times" with the family)

Lately I've been to a handful of events (including one I hosted) that requested we bring something to share. These kinds of things can create paralysis by analysis in me. What to make? Healthy or not? How much time and energy do I have to making something? You know the drill.

I've rediscovered a classic party dish that continues to be a hit: Baked Hawaiian Roll Sliders.

Party-goers also like there's sustenance with these sliders; honestly a few of these can be a meal in itself.

If you're tired of being creative or just don't know what to take to a party, shake off this recipe (with a new download for you, of course). It's also great for pleasing your own crowd; I made these one night over the Thanksgiving weekend and my guys continued to enjoy for the next day or two (they don't last long!)

2️⃣ 12-Minute Full Body Workout

We all know lower body strength training is important, but for some, our knees and hips don't cooperate.

If you fall in that camp, or if you just want a quick and basic lower-body workout, hit play on this.

If you're participated in my Strong and Vibrant at Home program, you'll recognize the split-screen approach where I show both a knee-friendly and traditional movement.

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3️⃣ Be Strong and Vibrant Anytime

When you're ready, you're ready. And you don't want to wait on anyone.

Over the past year I've launched my online, on-demand course Strong and Vibrant at Home in two separate cohorts. I cannot tell you how invigorating it's been to hear real women say how they are moving better, feeling better, and going about their daily lives in a stronger and more balanced way.

Strong and Vibrant is now available anytime! But now and start now, start in January, or February 3 (or whatever date you want).

Use code Nourish for $50 off, a special discount for those who get this newsletter.

4️⃣ Snack on This

I was just having a discussion with one of my doctors this week about this insane internal drive to not have workouts shorter than an hour. It's a rule to break in my book, Your Worthy Body, and I continue to try to help women understand that you don't need to work out a full hour for quality results! Sure, you can, but for most of our goals, it's not necessary.

This week's episode shares how just a few minutes can be beneficial, and gives you ideas on how to get "fitness snacks" in your day. Watch, then head back up to 2️⃣ above and do the 10-minute lower body workout.

I also explain the makeup-free look in the video (sorry, Mom, I know this horrifies you).

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5️⃣ The Best Christmas Skit I've Seen Lately

One full year. That's how long I've been waiting to share this with youy

Last year we sat down to watch the Nate Bargatze Christmas Special on CBS. While we enjoyed the entire show, this Christmas skit had us in stitches. As usual, Nate's deadpan delivery and Mikey Day's quest to understand is brilliant.

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This will be the last newsletter you receive from me this year. I wish you a peaceful, contemplative rest of the Advent season. May you enjoy your people and be awed by the Miracle of Christmas.

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In love and grace,

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Join me on the Graced Health Podcast Holistic, diet-culture-free, and science-backed ways to nourish your body, mind and spirit. ​ ​​​​