New Year - New Me

So it's that time of year again - time to make resolutions and pray that they last longer than 2 weeks.  Well for me, I'm really hoping to make 2013 my healthiest year yet!!  I am going to attempt to cook more often, plan my meals ahead of time, prep lunches for the week, and create a work out schedule that I can stick to around class and clinic. 

A few months ago, I did a 2 week clean-eating challenge for myself.  I had pre-packaged lunches, which was very convenient, but time-consuming on Sundays.  I pray that I can find the time to get this done on Sundays, and figure out ways to make it easier.

In addition to trying to be healthier, Tyler and I are going to try to incorporate more of a gluten-free diet to see if it helps with his inflammation. Being gluten-free definitely requires a lot of research, label-reading, and cooking, but it will totally be worth it if it can make him feel better.

With all this said, I thought I would share my first recipe of the year that fits the healthy and gluten-free goals we've set.  Tonight I prepared salmon with a brown sugar & soy sauce glaze served with baked sweet potatoes, and lemon pepper steamed asparagus!  It was absolutely delicious.  I still need to work on my timing with cooking, but eventually that will get better :)

Here is the link for the recipe for the baked sweet potatoes:
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Baked-Sweet-Potatoes/Detail.aspx?prop24=RD_RelatedRecipes

Just add olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano

I marinated the salmon filets in 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 2 tbsp of soy sauce, then baked them in a skillet.  Finally I steamed the asparagus and added some lemon pepper seasoning over top!  Other than the time it took to bake the potatoes, this meal was rather simple and super delicious!

The final plate (a little blurry)

I will try to post recipes/meal ideas to the blog as I try them.  Hopefully, sharing the goodness of a healthy meal will aid in a future enjoyment of cooking.

My other resolution - stick to a study schedule for National Boards.  Part I occurs for 3rd years March 19th and 20th.  I plan to make a schedule that will help me prepare gradually for the exam.  Prayers for my success in this stressful time would be MUCH appreciated!

Happy New Year, everyone!  What are your resolutions??  I hope you make 2013 your BEST year yet!!!