A Wisdom Wednesday For My Sweet Big Sister, Kate

Tomorrow it will be a year since my sweet sister left this earth and we are reminded how short life really is and how lucky we all are to have had Kate touch each of our lives. With this being a very special time of the year and one of her favorite times of the year, how could it be any more radiant than celebrating the life of our dear Kate? When this Angel came into this earthly world and left this earthly world, she embodied sweetness, purity, grace and determination. 

Kate and I golfing in the Special Olympics Tournament September 2015

We all cannot help but think of her beautiful blond curly hair, dashing blue eyes and the sweetest smile you've ever seen. She was so proud to be the daughter of Dad and Mom, the most amazing Big Sister a girl could have to me and she nestled perfectly into the lives and hearts of the extended Huebert and Wegner families. 

Our family celebrating Kate's 40th Birthday

Her love for all things sports was contagious and she could get anyone to watch a game with her. She was and always will be a tried and true Iowa Hawkeye fan, Denver Bronco fan and a fan of anything her cousins were playing. But what she thoroughly enjoyed the most was playing golf with her favorite fan, her Dad, every Friday that she could. 

Kate Celebrating her birthday at Casey's

Kate and Ally cheering on the Hawkeyes

Kate was an inspiration when it came to her devotion to her work and her home.  She worked hard everyday, always trying harder than the day before, never missing work and always carrying a smile on her face.  She loved and was proud of her home. When she was home she could be found jamming out to her favorite music, hitting golf balls in the backyard, playing with her kitties or having a beer with Dad and Mom on the patio. It is those times when Kate would show her funny and silly side. She would sit back and take in the conversation, just because she loved to be a part of it and loved the people she was with.  She had the most amazing quick whit and impeccable timing. Kate would make you laugh with her genuine contribution to the conversation at just the right time. 

Kate and I with our first kitty, Guy

One thing that I want to share with you today that maybe you do not know about Kate, is that she could see and knew her guardian angel. Because Kate was so special, so loved and such a gift to each of us, God gave her this gift in return. Her angel has guided her, protected her and has been with her through so many trials and triumphs in her short but profound life. On December 22nd, Kate saw the open arms of her angel and the open arms of her Dad and knew it was time for her to go home. 

Kate and I at Thanksgiving 2013

All of you have unique and special memories of Kate, because each of your lives she has touched was uniquely yours. Please hold those memories close to your heart and keep her alive in all that you do. Our angel is watching over each of you, wrapping her wings gently around you and whispering to you that you are loved and blessed by her everyday. 

Kate celebrating her 40th Birthday!

 Miss you every day Big Sister. 

Always hug your loved ones super tight. 

~AE

Wisdom Wednesday

How many times do you look back on a photo or a video?  These mementos are gifts we have of the past, memories of an event happening in our lives.  Whatever they make you feel, this feeling is your gift. They can make you smile, make you cry, make you laugh from your toes or may make you want to break something. Photos and videos are reminders of your life, what has happened so far and helps define who you are right now.  They encourage you to set goals to who you want to be and what future memories you want to make. 

How lucky to have gifts reminding you of the life you have lived so far.

Weekly Conversation

My conversation this week is with Beth Sloan, MS, RD, LDN

Beth Sloan is a registered dietitian I was thrilled to meet upon my adventure to New Orleans. She is a native of New Orleans and we had a great conversation about her journey so far. She has worked in clinical, outpatient diabetes, cardiac rehab, public health and currently a professor at Nicholls College  in Thibodaux, LA, where she is the Director of Dietetics and is an Assistant Professor of Dietetics specialized in teaching, evaluating, and advising future registered dietitians.

She is also the President of the Louisiana Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and is finishing up her Doctorate. She truly is a registered dietitian who gives back to our profession.

She showed me her favorite places, including pralines at Laura's Candies and we conversed over a Pimm's Cup cocktail at the Napoleon House. It was a complete joy spending time with this
inspirational woman!

Click here to enjoy my conversation with Beth

Week in Review

This week has been pretty low key which is good, I embrace a little peace and quiet. I got my house cleaned and organized (which is pretty impressive to be done before the upcoming holiday). Made some dates with friends for cookie making and cocktail club, got a few books out in the mail and sent some cards and notes to my favorite people. It is the perfect time of year to buy a sweet gift or stocking stuffer for your favorite registered dietitian or future registered dietitian for the holiday and you can find it HERE!

I also dined at Gilroy's Kitchen, one of my favorite restaurants in the Des Moines area on the first snow fall of the year. Please be very jealous of this plate, and go get your own! I seriously struggle with what to order every time I go there because there is soooo many delish dishes. Then there is also the brunch menu and choosing between breakfast or lunch times, well that is a whole other struggle.

Workout Playlist of the Week

Good tunes and good vibes this week, jam out, pump some iron and make some muscle.

Listen to the Workout Playlist of the Week by Anne Elizabeth on Apple Music

What I Love Right Now

The winter is harsh on my skin so I do everything I can to stay cozy and hydrated. This is my winter trio of products that I love. I always recommend moisturizing right after a bath or shower to lock in moisture. I like to use Suave Visible Glow for a little color to my skin all year around but during the winter' I apply every 2-3 days instead of everyday (no one expects you to be a bronze goddess in the winter). Then on opposite days, Jergens Shea Butter is my go-to for long lasting hydration and also adds a nice glow to my skin. Every 3 days, I also give my face and neck a little warmth with Clarins Intense Bronze Self Tanning Tint. It just is applied like a toner and it is very natural. This bottle lasts a long time, so don't be scared by the higher price tag. To finish off my coziness, I am loving my new sweater from F&F Clothing. More on that to come!

~AE