Jacqueline’s Weekly Newsletter 🤍

Happy Monday, y’all!

Hope you had a great week.

Even though we’re well into the new year, it never really feels like the “new year” to me just yet. I still feel like I’m in hibernation mode. My body always seems to align more with the seasons, and for me, the real new year begins in the spring. The air feels fresher, my mind is clearer, and I feel more motivated to tackle new projects.

As you know, I’m always cleaning, organizing, and letting go of things that no longer serve me—whether it’s toxic products, certain foods, or even styles of clothing. But beyond that, I’ve also learned to release friendships, groups, or relationships that no longer align with who I am becoming.

Are the People Around You Serving You?

Have you ever found yourself surrounded by people who gossip, are always negative, or leave you feeling drained? Maybe they put you down or judge your worldview. You leave interactions with them feeling off, like your cup hasn’t been filled.

Or maybe you’re in a relationship that no longer serves you—where jealousy, chaos, or a lack of communication and trust have taken over. If you’re experiencing this, it’s time to look inward and ask yourself:

Are these people truly adding to my life?

It’s okay to outgrow people. It’s okay to set boundaries. It’s okay to choose peace over drama.

Finding Community in a New Place

We moved to a brand-new area a couple of years ago, and I didn’t know a single person. But I knew I wanted to find a community that aligned with my values and my family’s lifestyle.

Some of the things I did to build that sense of connection were:

• Seeking out places that felt like me—like an uplifting, motivating workout community.

• Supporting small businesses, whether it was a cozy coffee shop or a smoothie bar.

• Finding an online Mom Group and reaching out to local community meetups—I met some amazing moms and families that way!

• Since I homeschool, connecting with great communities and learning pods online was imperative.

And one of my favorite things? I love going on little adventures, sometimes just by myself. I’ll hop online, browse Evite or community boards, and sign up for an event—just to meet new people. It’s always such a fun experience to connect with others from all walks of life. Who knows? Maybe I’ll meet you at one of these fun events one day!

Shifting Priorities After Motherhood

If I’m being completely honest, having children changed me in ways I never expected. I don’t even feel like the same person I was eight years ago. The past five years have been a whirlwind—challenging, but also the greatest awakening.

When you’re younger, you can handle certain energies without them affecting you much. But when you have little ones—who are sponges, absorbing everything—you become much more mindful of the environments you allow into your life.

Our family is intentional about staying positive and practicing gratitude every day. My husband and I want to nurture that and give our kids the tools to navigate the world with clarity and confidence. If something (or someone) is no longer serving you, it’s okay to take a step back—even if that means spending more time alone to figure out what truly makes you happy.

Finding Your People

If you’re looking for a new, more aligned community, start by immersing yourself in places that reflect your values and interests.

• If you want to meet health-conscious friends, try a new yoga class, a local wellness event, or even a smoothie shop—you never know who you might run into!

• Check out online groups or platforms like Evite, Meetup, or local event boards for gatherings that align with your lifestyle.

• Start journaling about the things that genuinely excite you, and use that list to seek out like-minded people.

Letting go is never easy, but growth requires space. When you release what no longer serves you, you make room for the things and people that truly do.

Chicken & Turmeric Rice Soup

I love making simple, nourishing meals for my family, and this Chicken & Turmeric Rice Soup is one of my favorites. It’s warming, full of anti-inflammatory goodness, and perfect for cozy evenings.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece ginger, grated

• 1 tsp ground turmeric

• ½ tsp ground coriander

• 1 large carrot, diced

• 1 celery stalk, chopped

• 1 cup (175g) brown long-grain rice

• 6 cups (1.5L) chicken broth

• 2 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (optional)

• Juice of ½ lemon

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

2. Stir in turmeric and coriander, then add the carrot and celery. Cook for another 2 minutes.

3. Add the rice, broth, and chicken thighs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 35-40 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

4. Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the pot.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in spinach or kale if using, and let it wilt for 2-3 minutes.

6. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and garnish with cilantro.

This soup is so nourishing and exactly what my family needs this time of year. If you try it, let me know how you like it!

Wishing you all a week of clarity, courage, and fresh starts.

Until next time,

Jacqueline