Jacqueline’s Weekly Newsletter 🤍

Happy Monday!

Can you believe October is nearly over? It feels like just yesterday we were in the midst of summer! How have you been? Are you getting ready for the holiday season?

I’ve received a few questions about how my partner and I keep our relationship strong, so I thought I’d share a few of our favorite practices that help keep our connection thriving.

Our Non-Negotiables for a Strong Connection

- Daily Gratitude

We make a habit of expressing gratitude daily. This simple practice helps us appreciate even the small things and keeps us grounded in the positives of our relationship.

- Monthly Check-In Nights

Each month, we set aside an evening to go out for dinner and talk through anything on our minds—from upcoming events to house projects or personal goals. This neutral setting helps us address any concerns calmly, which has been a game-changer for us.

- Respectful Communication

We’ve made it a rule never to raise our voices during disagreements. Instead, we focus on understanding each other’s perspectives and finding a path forward that works for both of us.

Other Tips That Keep Us Close

- Making Time for Fun Together

Even with busy schedules, we make it a priority to spend time together, whether it’s a date night or trying something new. (I’m planning a surprise salsa class for him soon—he doesn’t know yet!)

- Showing Love Consistently

Creating a loving environment is important to us, not just for each other but for our children. We want them to see a healthy, supportive relationship, so we make it a point to keep the romance alive and show love openly.

Recipe of the Week: Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins

Perfect for cozy fall moments with family or a treat to share!

Ingredients:

- 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour

- 1 cup pumpkin puree

- ½ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar

- 1 tsp baking powder

- ½ tsp baking soda

- 1 tsp cinnamon

- ½ tsp nutmeg

- ¼ tsp ginger

- ¼ tsp salt

- 2 large eggs

- ¼ cup melted coconut oil

- ¼ cup almond milk (or milk of choice)

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

3. In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, melted coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla until smooth.

4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring until just combined.

5. Spoon batter into muffin cups, filling each about ⅔ full.

6. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

7. Let cool and enjoy!

As we approach the holidays, let’s take this time to reconnect, reflect, and strengthen our most important relationships. Here’s to a wonderful week, meaningful connections, and some delicious pumpkin muffins to share!

With love and gratitude,

Jacqueline