Another Year Older: Birthday Reflections from Jeanicia Elder

Hey there, fabulous readers!  It’s that time of year again—my birthday! Cue the confetti, the cake, and the existential crisis about how I’m somehow closer to 30 than 20. But instead of spiraling into a "what am I doing with my life?" moment, I’ve decided to take this opportunity to reflect on some of the hilarious and profound lessons I’ve learned over the years. Grab your party hats, and let’s dive in!

1. Age is Just a Number… and a Lot of Cake

You know the saying, “Age is just a number”? Well, I’ve come to realize it’s also the number of candles I need to blow out on my cake—and that is a serious fire hazard! Seriously, if you see smoke, it’s not the candles; it’s my impending midlife crisis trying to escape. So, I’ve learned to embrace the number and load up on frosting. Because if you can’t be young, you might as well be sweet!

2. Friendships are Like Good Wine: They Get Better with Age

Over the years, I’ve learned that true friends are like a fine wine—age them a bit, and they become even more delightful! Some of my friends have been around long enough to know all my embarrassing moments. Shout out to my crew who’ve witnessed me try (and fail) to dance at parties like nobody’s watching. You guys keep my secrets, and for that, I am eternally grateful. Let’s raise a glass (or a dumbbell) to friendship!

3. Fitness Isn’t a Destination; It’s a Hilarious Journey

As a fitness professional, I’ve spent years trying to inspire others while simultaneously trying to figure out how to not look like a flailing octopus during a workout. I’ve learned that progress comes in many forms, from lifting heavier weights to simply managing to get off the couch without pulling a muscle. Here’s to those small victories! And if all else fails, just remember: at least you showed up in your cute workout gear!

4. Self-Care Isn’t Selfish; It’s Necessary

Let me tell you, self-care is NOT just bubble baths and face masks (though those are lovely too). It’s also about saying no to things that drain your energy and yes to things that spark joy. For instance, I’ve learned that I’m not obligated to attend every social gathering, especially if it involves an awkward “get to know you” game. Sorry, not sorry! I’ll be over here binge-watching my favorite series instead.

5. The Key to Happiness is Laughter (and Maybe Cake)

I’ve learned that the best way to navigate life’s ups and downs is with a healthy dose of humor. Laughter truly is the best medicine, even if it sometimes comes from my own embarrassing moments. Like that time I tripped while demonstrating a fitness move and landed right in front of my class. Spoiler alert: I got up and made it a part of the routine. Who says we can’t laugh at ourselves?

6. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff (or the Big Stuff, Honestly)

Life is too short to stress about things that really don’t matter in the grand scheme of things. Did I forget to turn off the oven for the second time this week? Yes. Is my house a mess? Absolutely. But instead of worrying, I’m learning to embrace the chaos! After all, who needs a perfectly organized life when you can have adventures, laughter, and maybe a little bit of cake?

7. Embrace the Weirdness

Finally, I’ve learned that it’s perfectly okay to be weird. Embrace your quirks and the things that make you unique! Whether it’s dancing like nobody's watching or having an inexplicable obsession with avocado toast, wear your weirdness like a badge of honor. Trust me; it’s way more fun than trying to fit into someone else's mold.

So, here’s to another year of laughter, love, and a few more gray hairs! I’m grateful for each lesson learned and every moment shared. Thank you for being part of my journey, and cheers to what’s next! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some cake to devour. 

Until next time, keep shining and laughing!

Childhood: Not the Pure, Wholesome Wonderland You Think It Is

 

Ah, childhood—the golden age of innocence, where love is pure, play is carefree, and hate is always taught by some mustache-twirling adult villain. Right? Wrong.

Let’s be honest: glamorizing childhood is dangerous. Why? Because it erases the chaotic little sociopaths many of us were back then. Think about it—babies aren’t born holding hands, singing Kumbaya. They come out screaming, demanding things, and occasionally biting their fellow tiny humans just to see what happens. They’re scientists of the social world, conducting experiments like, “What will happen if I bite Timmy? Oh, he cries? Let’s do it again!”

From an early age, kids notice differences and make snap decisions. This isn’t some learned prejudice—it’s raw, unfiltered human nature. "That kid’s hair is different. Should I touch it or run? Their lunch smells weird. Should I ask for some or yell, ‘Ewwww!’?" Love and hate are just two sides of the same messy, exploratory coin.

The Problem with the "Love is Natural, Hate is Taught" Narrative

This feel-good slogan sounds lovely in Instagram posts with pastel fonts, but it oversimplifies human emotion. It paints this idyllic picture of childhood where everyone is naturally kind and generous until some adult corrupts them. But where does that leave the kid who pushed you off the swing in third grade just because they wanted to watch you cry? Spoiler: they weren’t coached by an evil overlord. They were testing the waters of cause and effect.

It’s like calling kids “blank slates.” Sure, they’re blank, but that doesn’t mean they only write sonnets and paint rainbows. Some scribble chaos all over the page, and that’s natural too.

The Truth About Tiny Humans

Glamorizing childhood makes us forget just how dangerous it is to assume kids are inherently "good." Kids are curious, unpredictable, and often selfish, and that’s not a bad thing—it’s a developmental thing. They’re learning. They’re figuring out how the world works, and sometimes, that learning involves testing their capacity to love, hate, or occasionally dump sand on your head.

By pretending childhood is this pristine utopia, we risk ignoring the very real challenges of teaching empathy, kindness, and self-control. Those things don’t magically emerge. They’re cultivated—and often through trial and error (and tears).

Childhood: The Real Takeaway

The next time you hear someone romanticizing childhood, remind them that for every heartwarming “kids are so pure” moment, there’s a story about the time little Johnny stuck a crayon up his nose and blamed his sibling. Childhood isn’t just laughter and sunshine; it’s messy, raw, and often hilarious—but also a reflection of the complexity of human nature.

Let’s stop pretending kids are naturally angelic, and start acknowledging that childhood is where the seeds of both kindness and cruelty take root. Love and hate? Both natural. Both inevitable. Both hilariously chaotic in their origins.

Childhood isn’t a golden age—it’s an experimental lab where we figure out how to be human. Let’s treat it that way, with the honesty (and humor) it deserves.

And hey, while you’re wrangling your little experimenters, why not treat them (and yourself) to something sweet? Never miss a Monday ☀️ because they just got sweeter with Clean Juice’s FREE kids smoothies! 🎉🥤

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Because sometimes, even little agents of chaos deserve a treat. 🥤✨

Turning Pantry Leftovers into Magic: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies (with a Twist!)

Let’s talk about those pantry items you swore you’d use but forgot about. For me, it was a massive 40 oz jar of peanut butter (a gift from someone who clearly thought I live on PB&Js) and a bag of rolled oats that I once believed would fuel a lifetime of oatmeal breakfasts. Spoiler alert: I’m over oatmeal.

For weeks, these two stared me down every time I opened the pantry, daring me to use them. But instead of feeling guilty, I saw an opportunity. After some creative problem-solving and a quick inventory check, I rolled up my sleeves and whipped up something delicious: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies.

But I didn’t stop there—this time, I added a few unexpected tweaks to make the most of every last drop of peanut butter and create a no-waste masterpiece.

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The Recipe: Pantry-Clearing Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients:

• 40 oz peanut butter (about 5 cups)
• 2.5 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour + ½ cup corn flour
• 1 cup honey
• 4 tablespoons chia seeds + 10 tablespoons water (chia "eggs")
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• Optional: ½ teaspoon salt and mix-ins like chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts

The Secret Hack:

Once the peanut butter jar was nearly empty, I poured in some Silk plant-based milk, gave it a good shake, and created peanut butter milk. Not only did this clean out the jar, but it also made a creamy drink that paired perfectly with the cookies!

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the chia eggs: Mix chia seeds with water in a small bowl and let sit for about 5 minutes until it forms a gel.
2. Preheat oven: Set it to 325°F.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together peanut butter, honey, chia eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients: Gradually mix in oats, flour mixture, baking soda, and salt (if using). If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a splash of water or milk.
5. Shape cookies: Scoop dough onto lined baking sheets, flatten slightly with a fork or your fingers, and space them evenly.
6. Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
7. Enjoy or freeze: This recipe makes 50–60 cookies, so you can store extras in the freezer for future cravings!

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Freezing Instructions:

For Dough:

• Scoop individual cookie portions onto a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, about 1–2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the cookie dough portions to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• To bake from frozen, place the dough directly on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for 12–14 minutes. No need to thaw!

For Baked Cookies:

• Once cookies have cooled completely, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• To enjoy later, let them thaw at room temperature, or warm them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

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Why Food Waste Matters

Did you know that Americans throw away up to 40% of the food we produce? That’s over 119 billion pounds of food each year! Letting food go to waste doesn’t just hurt your wallet—it also contributes to methane emissions in landfills, a significant factor in climate change.

By repurposing leftover pantry staples like peanut butter and oats into cookies, I gave those ingredients a second life. And thanks to the creative addition of peanut butter milk, not even the jar went to waste.

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The Results: Delicious and Resourceful

These cookies turned out perfectly chewy with a rich, nutty flavor. The honey adds a natural sweetness, the chia seeds bring a subtle crunch, and the flours lend the perfect balance of softness and structure. Plus, the added touch of corn flour gives them a unique texture that I absolutely love.

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Final Thoughts

This experiment reminded me that with a little creativity, forgotten ingredients can be transformed into something meaningful—and delicious. The next time you’re eyeing neglected pantry items, don’t toss them. Shake things up (literally, in the case of the peanut butter milk), challenge yourself, and enjoy the results.

If you try this recipe—or have your own pantry-clearing ideas—I’d love to hear about them. Let’s make our kitchens (and the world) a little greener, one cookie at a time!

Why Do People Care About Your Fitness Choices?

As a fitness instructor, I’ve noticed how much people can get invested in what you’re doing with your workouts. Whether you’re in love with POUND, focusing on strength training, or mixing in some yoga, people sometimes feel the need to chime in with their two cents. It's interesting how personal these conversations can get, almost as if your choice is somehow a reflection on theirs.

Here’s what I’ve come to realize: when people see you making different fitness choices, they sometimes interpret it as a critique of what they’re doing—even though that's not what’s happening at all. It’s like, “Wait, you don’t use pre-workout?!” Suddenly, they feel the need to defend why they can’t get through a workout without it. But the thing is, you’re not judging them at all. You’re just doing what works best for you.

We All Have Different Fitness Journeys

What people forget is that fitness isn’t a one-size-fits-all thing. Everyone’s body responds differently, and what works for you might not work for someone else. I love leading my POUND and STRONG Nation classes because they’re energetic, empowering, and full of variety. But that doesn’t mean I’m saying everyone should ditch their usual routine to join me (although it’s super fun!). It’s just my way of staying active and feeling great.

It’s a bit like how some people look at marriage or kids—what feels like a huge commitment to one person might feel totally manageable to someone else. You’re not saying, “This is the only way to live,” you’re just choosing what makes sense for you. And honestly, the same goes for your workouts.

Changing Trends, Changing Mindsets

What’s seen as “right” or “best” in fitness changes all the time. At one point, everyone was doing cardio, thinking it was the only way to lose weight and stay fit. Now, we know strength training is equally important. Here are a few more fitness trends that have changed over time:

1. Cardio Over Strength Training: Years ago, people believed if you weren’t sweating buckets on the treadmill, you weren’t getting a good workout. Now, we know that lifting weights builds muscle, boosts metabolism, and helps with long-term fitness. Read more on the benefits of strength training.

2. Low-Fat Diets: Remember when everything was low-fat, and we thought that was the way to stay healthy? Turns out, healthy fats are actually important! Avocados, anyone? The myth of low-fat diets explained.

3. No Pain, No Gain: There was a time when if you weren’t sore the next day, people thought you didn’t work hard enough. But now, we understand that pushing your body too hard isn’t always the best approach, and rest days are crucial. Here’s why recovery matters.

Your Choice Isn’t a Critique of Theirs

So, why do people care so much about what you’re doing with your fitness routine? I think it comes down to validation. When someone sees you making different choices, it can make them feel like their own decisions are being questioned, even though they’re not. Your choice isn’t a referendum on what anyone else is doing—it’s just what works for you.

It’s not that you’re saying, “You’re wrong for using pre-workout,” just like they’re not saying you’re wrong for skipping it. We’re all on different paths, with different goals, and that’s totally fine.

Do What Works for You

At the end of the day, your fitness journey is personal. Whether you’re hitting the gym for some heavy lifting, joining a high-energy group class, or finding your flow in yoga, what matters is that it makes you feel good and strong. You’re not asking anyone to change their routine, just like you’re not expecting anyone to skip pre-workout just because you do (though, really, you might be saving a bit on supplements 😉).

So, the next time someone seems overly interested in why you’re choosing your workout routine, just remember: they’re likely just looking for validation. And that’s okay! But your choice isn’t a critique of theirs, and their choice doesn’t need to define yours. We all have our own journey, and as long as it works for you, that’s all that matters.

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Sources:

• Benefits of Strength Training:

  • Mayo Clinic - Strength Training: Why It Matters

• The Low-Fat Diet Myth:

  • Harvard Health Publishing - The Low-Fat Diet Myth

• Why Recovery Days Matter:

  • Verywell Fit - Importance of Recovery Days

The Myth of "I'm Here for You"—Why Empty Support Is Worse Than Silence

We've all heard it before—the classic, hollow refrain that seems to echo louder during life’s hardest moments: “If you need anything, I’m here for you.” It’s often delivered in a text message, a comment on social media, or even a quick call. But how many times have you actually felt the support behind those words? For me, it’s all too familiar—hearing these promises during times of tragedy, only to be left completely alone when I could’ve used a real hand.

It’s not just frustrating—it’s exhausting. In fact, this kind of performative compassion can often make a tough situation worse, not better. Let’s break down why the well-meaning phrase “I’m here for you” can do more harm than good—and what we can learn about genuine support.

The Reality Behind "I'm Here for You"

What does it really mean when someone says, “I’m here for you”? For many, it’s an instinctive response, something to say when they don’t know how to actually help. It’s easy to send off a quick message and feel like you’ve done your part. But as psychologist Dr. Elizabeth Scott points out in her article on performative empathy, this kind of support often lacks follow-through. The result? The person in need is left feeling abandoned by the very people who were supposed to care the most .

I’ve had my fair share of experiences with this. After hearing “If you need anything, let me know,” I decided to actually take people up on it. I would reach out—asking for a quick call or a small favor—and suddenly, their schedule was too busy, or they were overwhelmed with their own lives. The excuse was always ready, and I was left to handle everything alone.

And here’s the thing—I’m not asking for the moon. A phone call, a text that checks in, a small act of kindness… that is what real support looks like. But saying you’re “here for me” without following through just adds insult to injury, leaving me to question why I even bothered asking.

The Performance of Sympathy on Social Media

We’ve all seen it—the social media performance of sympathy. A tragedy strikes, and suddenly your feed is flooded with people posting public declarations of support. It feels good to be publicly tagged in a heartfelt post, right? Maybe not. In fact, research shows that these kinds of public displays of empathy often do little more than make the poster feel better about themselves . For the person receiving it? It feels superficial at best.

I’ve been there. After suffering a major personal loss, I received countless “If you need me, I’m here” comments and direct messages. But when I actually needed someone? Crickets. No follow-up, no real offer to help. It was all for show—just a way for them to appear supportive without actually being there. And don’t even get me started on the performative #thoughtsandprayers that pop up on every tragedy post .

The Power of Genuine Support

Real support isn’t flashy. It doesn’t need to be broadcast on social media or shouted from the rooftops. In fact, the most meaningful help I’ve received has come from people who don’t say much at all—they just show up. Maybe it’s bringing over a meal, sending a handwritten card, or simply sitting with you in silence when you can’t even put your feelings into words.

Experts in compassionate listening agree that sometimes, words can be more damaging than silence . Rather than offering empty phrases, taking real action or simply being present can be far more impactful. If you're looking to be a true support to someone, consider asking them specific questions like, “Can I bring you something to eat?” or “I’m free to help you with errands on Thursday. Would that work?” These concrete offers show that you’re invested in helping and take the burden off the person to guess how to ask for help.

Why I’m Done With “I’m Here for You”

At this point, I’ve given up on expecting any real action from the people who casually say, “If you need me, let me know.” I’ve realized that, more often than not, it’s a phrase people use to make themselves feel better without having to put in the effort to actually be supportive. And I’m okay with that now—because honestly, I don’t need you.

I’ve been figuring out life on my own for a while now. During every hard moment, every crisis, I’ve been the one sending birthday cards, showing up to your parties, supporting you, making sure you feel loved. I’ve been driving down this one-way street of support, while the people around me barely glance in my direction. So no, I don’t need your empty promises of “being there” for me when I know you won’t show up. I’ve got it covered.

A Call for Meaningful Change

So, what can we do to change this? First off, stop offering empty words. If you don’t have the time or emotional bandwidth to help someone in a meaningful way, that’s okay—but don’t say you’re “here” for them. Instead, consider offering a small gesture, or just acknowledge their pain without committing to something you won’t follow through on .

And for those of us who’ve been on the receiving end of these empty statements, maybe it’s time to stop waiting for help that’s never going to come. We have to prioritize the people who truly show up and recognize the difference between performative compassion and the real thing. And if that means cutting out the noise and relying on ourselves a little more? So be it.

Because at the end of the day, I’m tired of pretending that an “I’m here for you” text means anything. I’ve been here for myself all along—and that’s the only constant I can count on.

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SOURCES

1. Psychology Today – Understanding Performative Empathy  

2. Harvard Business Review – The Limits of Public Sympathy on Social Media  

3. The Atlantic – The Problem with "Thoughts and Prayers"  

4. Verywell Mind – The Art of Compassionate Listening  

5. The New York Times – Why It’s Okay Not to Always Offer Help  

Finding Your Abigail: Lessons on Relationships, Boundaries, and Personal Growth

In our journeys through life, many of us pour our time, energy, and love into our relationships, often without expecting anything in return. Yet, when we face disappointment or betrayal, it’s easy to feel like David did when he was insulted by Nabal after offering protection. That moment of insult stirred a rage in David that made him consider riding off with swords drawn, ready to avenge the slight against him. While we may not brandish swords, we often contemplate cutting people off from our lives when we feel unappreciated or taken advantage of.

The biblical story unfolds as David, seeking refuge, provides protection for Nabal’s flock and later asks for supplies. Nabal, in a moment of arrogance, not only refuses but also insults David. Infuriated, David prepares for revenge, just as we might find ourselves imagining the severance of ties with those who hurt us. However, it is at this critical juncture that Abigail, Nabal’s wise wife, steps in. She quickly gathers provisions and approaches David with humility and grace. In doing so, she prevents a tragedy that could have stemmed from unchecked anger.

Abigail’s actions prompt us to reflect on our own responses to disappointment. Instead of allowing anger to dictate our actions, we can embrace the courage to respond thoughtfully. Abigail’s plea reminds us that revenge may seem justifiable, but it often carries burdens we do not wish to bear—similar to how cutting someone off might relieve immediate frustration but could also lead to regret and isolation in the long run.

In this way, Abigail acts as a voice of reason, urging David to consider not just the immediate moment, but the bigger picture of his life and destiny. She reminds him that holding onto resentment or seeking vengeance would only weigh on his conscience, diverting him from his path to greater success. This resonates with our own lives; when we’re tempted to cut people off, we should consider what we might lose beyond the relationship—like the opportunities for growth, understanding, and compassion that can arise from conflict.

This theme of perspective is echoed in the wise parable of the Chinese farmer. When faced with both misfortune and fortune—like the loss of a horse followed by the arrival of wild horses—he maintains an indifferent stance, saying, “We’ll see.” This calm acceptance highlights the idea that life events are rarely as straightforward as they seem. The apparent negative can lead to unforeseen positives, much like how Abigail’s challenging marriage to Nabal ultimately positioned her to save lives and marry David.

So, who in your life serves as your “Abigail”? Consider the individuals who offer wisdom and support during tough times. It could be a trusted friend who always seems to have the right advice, a family member who provides a listening ear, a mentor who helps you see the bigger picture, or even a therapist who guides you through your emotions. Your Abigail could be that colleague who encourages collaboration instead of competition or a spiritual leader who inspires you to practice forgiveness. Finding such individuals can be transformative, offering perspective that allows you to engage with the world more thoughtfully. 

Instead of wielding metaphorical swords or cutting people off, consider the power of open dialogue and forgiveness. In doing so, you may find that you not only preserve valuable relationships but also cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself and others. 

Ultimately, both Abigail's story and the farmer’s wisdom remind us that events in life should not be hastily labeled as good or bad. Instead, by focusing on personal growth and mutual respect in our relationships, we can navigate challenges with grace and wisdom. Embrace the lessons learned, seek out your Abigail, and allow yourself to grow into the best version of yourself, forging connections that enrich your journey.

Seeking Help: A Call for Harris County's Elderly Community

 

As we grow older, the need for assistance can become more pronounced. This truth resonates especially for many elderly individuals in Harris County, who may find themselves in challenging situations requiring support. The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 15:22, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed." Seeking help before situations become dire is crucial for our senior community to maintain dignity and comfort.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Many seniors may hesitate to ask for help, thinking they can manage on their own. However, waiting until a crisis emerges can lead to stress, financial strain, and diminished quality of life. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 states, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." It's essential to recognize that reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Available Resources in Harris County

Fortunately, there are numerous resources available for seniors in Harris County. These agencies provide assistance with bills, housing, and other essential needs. Here are some organizations that can help:

1. BakerRipley

   • Services: Utility assistance, case management for seniors, caregiver support, and dementia-specific services.
   • Phone: (713) 590-2327 (for utility assistance) | (713) 956-1888 (senior services)
   • Website: www.bakerripley.org

2. Salvation Army Houston

   • Services: Emergency assistance for utility bills, rent, and other essential needs, as well as senior housing.
   • Locations and Phone:
     • 1500 Austin St., Houston, TX 77002 | (713) 752-0677
     • 4516 Irvington Blvd., Houston, TX | (713) 692-0522
   • Website: www.salvationarmyhouston.org

3. Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston

   • Services: Utility and rental assistance for seniors and others facing financial difficulties.
   • Phone: (713) 874-6590
   • Website: www.catholiccharities.org

4. Harris County Community Services Department

   • Services: Assistance with rent, utilities, and transportation for seniors.
   • Phone: (713) 696-7900
   • Website: csd.harriscountytx.gov

These organizations offer a range of services designed to help seniors navigate financial challenges and access the care they need. It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm eligibility requirements and the availability of funds.

The Call to Action

As we reflect on the importance of community and support, let's encourage the elderly in our lives to seek assistance when necessary. 1 Peter 5:7 tells us, "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." By reaching out for help, seniors can alleviate some of their burdens and improve their quality of life.

In conclusion, let’s advocate for our elderly community members to be proactive in seeking the assistance they need before challenges escalate. Together, we can build a stronger, more supportive environment for our seniors in Harris County.

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If you know any elderly individuals in need, please share these resources and encourage them to reach out for help!