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by Kate Kriynovich
Some will tell you
that life is about the struggle and hard work, and once you've put in your time
and paid your dues, then you might be able to get some reward from it. Well, I
am here to tell you that much greater reward can be summoned from a more joyful
and easy approach, when you're tuned into enjoying your life and focused on what
is important to you.
In my last article, I mentioned my dad who tried to keep things light—for both
himself and those around him. He knew that harboring the negative did not get
him where he wanted to be. Dad would shift to the positive and think about what
was next. Of course, sometimes he needed an outlet to let go, which could take
many forms, but usually meant some shenanigans.
Fortunately, all of my six sibs appreciated this side of him, and developed that
side, as well. We rely on each other for a wise crack, a good story, or some
kind of monkey business whenever we talk on the phone or see each other. I
always feel stronger, happier, and more alive sharing those laughs and joyful
moments with them, our nieces and nephews, Mom, extended family, and friends.
My sister, Jane, a commercial pilot, is all business when she's flying corporate
execs around the world. But, when she's with us, she is all about having a good
time. After all, life is about balance.
Together with her twin, Jeanne, she is double trouble. Just ask my friend Jack
about playing the game, Spoons, with them. The twins have faced some very hard
times, and their dedication to each other and to their families is steadfast and
unwavering. They break it down to their core values and live them.
Andy just calls to tell stories and laugh, and has been an easy going and
forgiving soul since he was a little boy. He has exhibited a great deal of
resiliency in the face of professional challenges, and is setting his sights on
a new vision to do what is most appealing to him at this point in his life.
Phil has been entertaining and scaring us from a very early age. He is all about
the adventure, and seems to have what must be a hoard of busy guardian angels at
his side at all times. We never knew what he and his pal, John, were going to
try next. Now he has two little boys, who are following in his ways, and he is
the one being entertained.
Mary is inspiring--no matter how much she has on her plate, she always squeezes
in some fun and "extracurricular" activities. Dad liked to tell me the story
about how he went to her business to help her do some landscaping and she
whisked him away to go mushroom hunting. So they rescheduled the landscaping,
and when he showed up the second time, she tried to go mushroom hunting again.
That leaves, Peggy, the baby of our family—always on the go, never a dull
moment. She is out to have a good time, and so are her three kids. I was quite
proud when my husband and I wore them out on their visit to Columbus, last fall.
That took some doing!
With a family like that, I never have to look far for a respite, a laugh, a
chance to lighten up and not take life so seriously. And, what I find is that
life becomes easier, and much, much more happy and rewarding.
When you are on the go like Peg, and you want to surprise the family or guests
with a yummy breakfast, I have the answer--Peg's caramel rolls. Couldn't be
easier or better—just throw them together the night before, and bake in the
morning.
This recipe has become a standard when we host overnight guests. My husband,
Mark, who is an early bird, pops them in the oven in the morning, and our guests
awaken to the smell of freshly baked rolls. It's great sharing a cup of coffee
and warm rolls while sitting around the patio or kitchen together.
(Note of disclosure: this recipe does not meet the dietary guidelines that Bob
TM has been teaching us for years, so I apologize for that. But, if you're going
to splurge, this is certainly a great recipe to use. The "splurginess" can be
balanced with a plate of fresh fruit.) Peg's Caramel Rolls – you'll love this recipe!
1 1/2 cups of pecans or more, whole or pieces—I like lots
18 frozen bread dough rolls (this is usually half a bag)
1 package (3 ½ ounce) butterscotch cook and serve (NOT instant) pudding mix
½ cup of butter
¾ cup brown sugar
¾ teaspoon cinnamon (this is the ingredient that's good for you—use as much
as you want)
Spray Bundt pan with cooking spray. Sprinkle bottom of pan with nuts. Place
rolls on top; these may be slightly stacked. Sprinkle dry pudding over the
rolls. Melt the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon together, and pour over
the rolls. Leave uncovered for 8 hours or overnight, so they can rise. Bake
at 350 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes. Remove from the pan immediately by
putting a large plate over the top of the pan, and then flipping the pan
over. The rolls should fall out of the pan, keeping their molded shape. You
may need to scrape some pecans and caramel out of the pan and over the
rolls. They're ready to devour.
Coaching Inquiries: How do you lighten things up? Do you have
friends, colleagues, or family members who help you keep things in perspective
and who share in some fun? Are you aware of people around you who could use a
laugh, and some cheering up? We all need some balance and levity. If you have a recipe you want to share,
please use our online Feedback Form. To learn more about our
Wellness Coaching programs and to arrange for a complimentary wellness coaching
session, use our Contact Form or
Email Bob.
May you be filled with goodness, peace, and joy.
Kate Kriynovich (Kate@LifeTrekCoaching.com)
LifeTrek Coaching International
Columbus, OH
U.S.A.
Telephone: 614-488-4659
Fax: 240-465-5848
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