It has been said: “We are shaped and fashioned by what we love.” That is true. However, it is also true that we are shaped and fashioned by whom we love and by who loves us.

The ancient Greeks define love in the following four ways:

Storge’…the Greek word often used to refer to the natural affection that exists between members of the same family.  Like the love you have for your Grandpop or your eccentric Aunt Claire!

Phil’ia..Greek for “affection” or “friendship”.  Life would be boring without friends! A Bible proverb says: “There exists a friend sticking closer than a brother.”

Agap’e..has to do with the mind.  It is not simply an emotion which rises unbidden in our hearts; it is a principle by which we deliberately live.

Eros..the physical love shared by a man and a woman which is. Of course, romantic love.

When we desire to celebrate all of the ways we express love to others and ourselves, we may already be thinking about the perfect gift and menu for your sweetheart or friends. Although chocolates and candy are popular, there are plenty of healthy ways to indulge.  Check out this menu from start to finish with these suggested healthy alternatives:

• Breakfast in Bed. Begin your Special Day the healthy way by preparing your OPTAVIA Golden Pancakes or Golden Chocolate Chip pancakes into heart shapes for breakfast.
• Veggie-tizers. Instead of your classic veggie tray, turn your veggies intoeart shapes for a fun appetizer. Simply use a small heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut your cucumbers, zucchini and peppers.
• The Main Course. Impress your loved one with this week’s featured Lean and Green recipe, Blackened Shrimp Lettuce Wraps. This quick and easy recipe is perfect as a date night dinner. Not to mention, it’s delicious! See below for the complete recipe.
• Plan your menu together! The best gift that you could give and receive is quality time, so prepare your menu together and then follow up with a fun activity, such as a walk or picnic. These memorable moments will last longer than chocolates or flowers, and are much healthier!

 Ask me, your OPTAVIA Coach, about other other healthy alternatives you can enjoy this Valentine’s Day on your journey to Lifelong Transformation, One Healthy Habit at a Time^®

From Week 2 Optavia Newsletter