Madiba

I know he's not a thing, but he's one of my favorite people! Nelson Mandela is such an amazing figure that has changed not only South Africa, but has influenced the world. His struggle for freedom of his country, countrymen and the human race is enough to inspire even the person with the dullest of ambitions.
Having overcome so many obstacles, not least of which includes being imprisoned for 27 years for his stand against Apartheid, he has come out as a hero. I believe him to be one of the wisest, kindest, humblest men of the century and I want to share just a few of his quotes with you:

"Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity, it is an act of justice. Like Slavery and Apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Sometimes it falls on a generation to be great. YOU can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom." 
— Nelson Mandela

"We pass through this world but once and opportunities you miss will never be available to you again."
— Nelson Mandela

"The process of illusion and disillusionment is part of life and goes on endlessly."
— Nelson Mandela

"What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead."
— Nelson Mandela


"We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, handsome, talented and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?" 
— Nelson Mandela 

"One cannot be prepared for something while secretly believing it will not happen." 
— Nelson Mandela

"Your playing small does not serve the world. Who are you not to be great?" 
— Nelson Mandela

Seattle's Best

Anyone who knows me, knows that I . LOVE . COFFEE . If I had to choose between oxygen and coffee, I would choose coffee. Hands down. My good friend Megan, introduced me to Seattle's Best Coffee, which I fantasize renaming 'Lisa's Best'.

Unfortunately, the price is not as nice as the flavor. However, I have a strategy. I wait, as the predator waits for its prey, and as soon as it goes on sale, I stock up on several bags at a time.

I recently hit jackpot on one of my frequent trips to our local Grocery Outlet. While on the search for our well loved cereal brands (another topic for this blog yet to be elaborated on) the ruby red bags caught my eye. My heart skipped a beat. Could it be true? Could it really be Seattle's Best right here amidst the mountains of morning dining options?

Yes. Not only was it Seattle's Best but it was an untried and never before seen flavor - 6th Avenue Bistro. All I can say now is, after tasting this rich, nutty, bold roast, 6th Avenue is where I want to take up permanent residence.

Dark chocolate covered almonds

Grocery shopping is a dangerous thing. Especially when coupled with a bout of hunger. It was on one of these occasions that I discovered the joy that is chocolate covered almonds.

Not just any chocolate mind you. I have come to realize that there is a big difference between milk chocolate almonds and dark chocolate covered almonds. In my opinion, dark is the superior option.

The danger of this 'snack' is that it can be justified as healthy. I argue with myself that I am stocking up on healthy oils and anti-oxidants instead of just stuffing myself with sugar loaded treats. This may be true if enjoyed in moderation which I have yet to succeed in doing...

My favorite and most economic option that I have found so far is Target's Market Pantry version. These are both delicious and affordable (see how hard I try to convince myself).

So next time you're grabbing those absolute necessities, be sure to try my new favorite indulgence.