As most of you know, thanks to my state of mind last week when I sat down to blog, I've been a bit stressed lately. However, after venting to all of you, doing a little Crossfit Yoga, spending the weekend watching the new season of House of Cards (yes, the entire season in one weekend), and deciding I was going to make my work-life balance a priority, things are on the upswing this week. It also didn't hurt that my project turned back to Green, which is another way of saying, all the sh*t that was going wrong is now under control...mostly at least.

So--time to re-focus on a few things that make me happy when I'm not working:

1. blogging (and cooking)
2. hanging out with friends (and my husband)
3. working out (and yoga)...(or both, as it may be)

Last weekend, I found time to do a bit of research on improving my marketing strategy; aka, having one. I found this great  website, Blog Chicka Blog, focused on tips to "make money blogging" -- perfect! I only spent a little while reading but it was already enough time to focus in on a couple things I've done right so I can feel good about myself:
1. Create a name that has a "ka" sound because it's easier to remember -- check!
2. Collaborate with fellow bloggers and promote each other's sites -- (in progress) check!

In all seriousness though, she does have a lot of great advice including some stuff I've already thought of and some I haven't. I think my next step is to sit down and start prioritizing a few things -- and more importantly, keep my new found focus and spend some time working on that marketing strategy that's currently nonexistent. While I'm very appreciative of all of my friends and family who are reading this blog every week -- unfortunately, that audience isn't going to get me to where I want to be.
This week, I thought I'd share a quick and easy snack or side dish that is my go-to especially when I'm in a time crunch.

Avocado Toast
Time: 5 min.    Makes: 1 serving
1 piece wheat bread, toasted     1 avocado, sliced     salt and pepper to taste     drizzle of olive oil
Scoop avocado onto toast and layer. Sprinkle on salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil. Enjoy!