Saturday, March 13, 2010

Sunshine Makes Me Happy



Sunshine is in short supply this weekend in my part of New Jersey, with a rainfall of three to five inches expected. We had such a glorious week, full of sun and warmth, that I cannot complain. After all, into every life a little rain must fall, right?

I snapped this photo on Wednesday, when the sun was streaming in through my kitchen window. I've been taking a lot of photos in the kitchen lately, and showing a bit more interest in cooking, too. It's funny how winter just wears you down -- same food, same four walls. I've been trying to diet since January, but have only been able to make any headway this past week, when the sun began to shine. Rather than a strict diet, I've just been making sure that my meals include whole grains, fruit or vegetables.

And that seems to be enough for me. I've never been a big meat eater, so just a bite or two satisfies me. And I don't like fish at all, except for canned tuna. Yes, I'm a picky eater. :) But most of all, I don't seem to be craving sweets or salty things. Glory Hallelujah.

In a strange way, I think the sunshine and warmer weather are responsible for my change of heart. I've always been a big stress eater and, well, sunshine makes me happy.

Can it really be as simple as that?

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Please join me for Mosaic Monday this week. I was blown away last week by the amazingly talented bloggers who shared their photos with us, and I look forward to seeing what you have to show this week. Mr. Linky will be up by 8:30pm Sunday. :)

31 comments:

  1. This picture is so very beautiful. Good weekend to you! Cathy

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  2. It's so beautiful!Enjoy your weekend!

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  3. Yes! I think it is as simple as that!
    I am exactly the same way...
    It's a whole new world when the sun is shining...

    We have been blessed with an unusual abundance rescently...No complaints here!!!

    Love those sunshine streaming in the window shots...lovely.

    Have a wonderful weekend...even if it rains!
    xoxo~Kathy @ Sweet Up-North Mornings...

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  4. That is a lovely picture-you must be so glad that the sun is shining a bit more these days!

    Enjoy the weekend and best wishes always,
    Natasha.

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  5. The sunshine does magical things to us Mary. I have had a beautiful sunny week here in Michigan too, although right now it is rainy. I don't mind the rain though, I hope it washes the last traces of filthy snow away! I love how the sun lights up a photo, especially a photo of flowers. It turns each petal into glowing stained glass:>)

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  6. Sunshine makes me happy, too! I do believe it is that simple. I love your flower arrangement! I have the same little bunny. (Pier One?) Mine is just stuck in a house plant. You have inspired me to do something different. Thanks! Carla

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  7. I absolutely agree that the weather has a lot to do with your mood and eating habits. Spring~ a time of renewal and positive thinking about our healthy eating and getting out after a long winter and getting fresh air and excercise!~Patti

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  8. Beautiful! And I believe that our moods are highly susceptible to weather.

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  9. Nice post, Mary. The older I get, the harder it gets to lose weight and I'm not kidding. Like you, though, I never stop trying. Take care. Sincerely, Susan

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  10. For some reason, I thought you were Italian, and I have to laugh. I'm also Italian and only eat white meat tuna from a can, if that. Every Christmas Eve when all the fish is served, and I eat only a little shrimp (and it has to be prepared a certain way), my husband swears I can't be Italian.

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  11. OH NO! It's pouring rain today; don't slump back. Love the label, btw.
    Cass

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  12. so appealing Mary...raining here buckets today. but next week promises to be better. i was so bored yesterday i made a huge cake...now i am eating it...

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  13. Gorgeous picture. The sun on the flowers is so pretty. Hugs, Marty

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  14. We haven't seen sun in weeks either - the gray dreary days can really have an affect on your spirits. Just keep looking forward a few more weeks!
    What a pretty picture ~
    Sarah

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  15. Your flowers are gorgeous, Mary. We haven't seen the sun here in Nebraska in about a week. On Thurdsay I picked up a bunch of white tulips when I was doing my marketing....it is amazing what a pick-up that has been for my spirit. I look at them on the dining room table and I think of the promise of spring :)

    Blessings!
    Gail

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  16. Mary, The sunshine sure has a positive effect on my attitude as well as diet. Just about everything you said in your post is something I could relate to, except for eating as I like just about everything! But cooking the same old meals gets boring and I'm so looking forward to farmers market & fresh produce. Have a great weekend!
    PS I guess I won't complain about our measly inch of rain ; )!

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  17. After seeing the weather forecast for last week we were surprised to get as much sun as we did.
    I am not complaining!

    This wind and rain now, though, are amazing!

    Becky K.

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  18. I do think it can be that easy. But our emotions get in the way. I cut back on eating in the evening hours and walking every day and that seems to help. But no walking today. It's awful out there, isn't it?

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  19. I know what you mean Mary...somehow the sunshine just makes things so much better. I seem to have more energy and drive when it's bright outside. It's been such a dull week I'm craving that bright yellow ball in the sky...but the good news is they are predicting it for later today and tomorrow! I can't wait. Good luck with your 'diet'. Thank you for the beautiful picture with the sun...I needed it. Take good care....Maura

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  20. It's raining here after a week of on and off sun. The sun made me happy and energetic, and the rain has me sluggish. Simply explained, but disappointing nonetheless.

    I long to bake and cook, but then I'll eat and I don't need to be enticed! I'd love to curl up and read but then I don't get exercise (does pacing count?).

    Maybe I will just spend a few more moments contemplating your beautiful photograph!

    xoxo
    Jane

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  21. that is some beautiful light

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  22. I believe that sunshine heals...sorry you aren't getting the fair share this weekend...love the photos lately though, smiles.

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  23. Yes, sunshine totally makes a big difference in my mood. And when mixed with nice fresh, not cold air, it's so wonderful..

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  24. ...boy, your little kitchen window has a way of capturing the sun...and that bouquet is especially talented in the way it holds the light. All smiles here.

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  25. We had wonderful sunshine here at the lake for a few days, but it's disappeared again, reminding us, winter isn't quite finished with us, yet. I always do better eating healthier when the sunny months are with us. My mood improves, too!

    I have a mosaic post published already and will link it, tomorrow evening. Been a couple of weeks since I've made a mosaic worth writing home about.

    I love the photo! Reminds me I need to get my bunny topiary out, when we get home, next week.

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  26. Beautiful sunshine photo and winter can get depressing
    Alison

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  27. It's been sunny here, and I'm loving it. Your photo is wonderful!

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  28. Sunshine is in short supply here. I really need some to improve my mood.

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  29. Yes, it really can be that simple! Sunshine is so important in so many aspects of our lives. Gotta have that vitamin D from its natural source!

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  30. I just found your blog... how lovely!!! As a new Jersey girl-NYC transplant it's nice to meet a new neighbor. We need all the sunshine we can get. I found you through 'food with style' and your beautiful photograph!

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  31. Have you ever had your vitamin D levels checked? My mom just discovered that she is way deficient and the funny thing is that her doctor said that her own numbers were low despite an extended vacation in the Bahamas and returning tanned. And, apparently, it does affect mood. Soooo, I think all of us in our particular corner need to sit in the sun for a bit every single day. Love this picture...so cheery...so bright.

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