SNACK: fig bars
For a healthier snacking option, I absolutely love these whole wheat fig bars from Barbara’s Bakery. They are made with no added sugar and include real fruit and fiber, which you can totally taste in every bite. They are available at Whole Foods online at www.barbarasbakery.com.
GO-TO: chobani
One of my most favorite go-to pantry items has to be Chobani plain Greek-style yogurt. I use it for everything! For breakfast with cereal, in smoothies, for baking and even as a substitute in sauces. It’s a great low-calorie option for mayonnaise and sour cream. For a list of my favorites recipes using plain yogurt, click here.
SNACK: oatcakes
I am addicted to these amazing oatcakes by Effie’s Homemade. They’re a 4th generation family recipe that are slightly sweet and crisp with a great nutty flavor. They’re a perfect snack on their own, or with a cup of tea. Available in gourmet markets and retailers. Visit www.effieshomemade.com for more information.
ESSENTIAL: potato ricer

A potato ricer is an invaluable tool for your kitchen, ensuring you get smooth and delicious potatoes every time. This one, from Crate & Barrel is dishwasher-safe, lightweight and comes apart for easy cleaning. $34.95. Available at stores nationwide, or online at www.crateandbarrel.com.
FUNCTIONAL: cutting board
Line up slices of a good crunchy baguette and wedges of your favorite cheeses on this beautiful cutting board, handcrafted from antique oak wood wine barrels from the Franschhoek valley. Handmade from South Africa. Hand wash only. 1″ x 6″ x 17.75″. $38. Available from www.anthropologie.com.
BREAKFAST: on-the-go
One of my most favorite drinks for those on-the-go mornings (or a post workout pick-me-up) is CalNaturale Svelte. The rich and creamy chocolate flavor (my favorite) contains 16g of protein from fresh organic soymilk, along with organic complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. They are also a good source of fiber and are dairy- and gluten-free. Available in chocolate, french vanilla, cappuccino and spiced chai, all with unique quotes on the front of each bottle. Look for them at your local market or visit sveltebrand.com for more information.
ORGANIC TEA: zhi tea
Zhi Tea is a 100% organic tea company based in Austin and they are serving up some of the best tea I’ve ever had. The Fredericksburg Peach (Black Tea) was the flavor that hooked me. Full of antioxidants as well as a class of polyphenols that protect your bones and teeth (helps the body from pulling calcium), black tea is actually good for you. And this, their most popular peach flavor, served iced, is really light and refreshing. Available throughout Austin, TX or you can order online at www.zhitea.com.
EASTER: chocolate bunnies

These charming little chocolate bunnies from Vosges Chocolate would make a perfect addition to anyone’s Easter basket. Each 2.5 ounce solid chocolate bunny arrives in its own box complete with a story of its origin. Available in four of their popular flavors: Red Fire, Barcelona, Toffee and Orchid Vanilla. $12.00 each. Visit www.vosgeschocolates.com for more details.
YOGURT: my go-to snack
Not all yogurts are created equal and for me, my favorite brand is Chobani. I’m pretty much addicted to this yogurt and use the plain Greek-style yogurt for many things in my cooking but for a snack, it’s the blueberry flavor that’s always in my fridge. I’ve tried many of their other flavors but it’s blueberry that still reminds on the top of my list. Field-fresh blueberries are added into their plain yogurt making it a perfect antioxidant-packed snack. Available at grocery stores around the country.
HANDCRAFTED: heart dish

This sweet little dish from White Forest Pottery is the perfect gift to give to yourself, or to someone you love. Made from a thin layer of porcelain, this handcrafted dish has a shiny white glaze and is about 3″ in diameter. Perfect on its own or filled with a handful of your favorite little candy. Each one is unique. $25. Available online through www.whiteforestpottery.com.



