JA N UA RY 2 02 4
COMING TO CENTRAL FLORIDA IN
Central Florida is gearing up for another spectacular year of growth in 2024, with a lineup of groundbreaking projects set to transform the cityscape and enhance the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.
Evermore Resort
Seven Oaks Park
DreamWorks Land
Orlando's Evermore Resort is a highly anticipated project that promises to offer an immersive vacation experience for its guests. The resort spans over 1,000 acres and will feature an impressive 20-acre water park, which boasts a swimming lagoon bordered by sandy beaches.
Winter Park's new green space will be a stunning addition to the community. The park will be adorned by seven grand live Oak trees that will offer ample shade for visitors and events. In the future, the park could potentially serve as a "greenway" to connect other nearby parks.
Universal Orlando Resort will debut an all-new themed land featuring DreamWorks Animation’s beloved animated characters. Attractions will include franchises such as Shrek, Trolls, and Kung Fu Panda.
AREA15
Creative Village Phase II
Lake Eola Park Expansion
AREA15 is an immersive entertainment and retail complex that is set to open its doors off of I-4. The 50,000 sqft space will feature various experiences that are unlike anything else in the city, including interactive art installations, virtual reality experiences, and immersive theater.
Creative Village’s Phase II will encompass a mixed-income multifamily development, a multitenant office building, a hotel, and over 500 student housing beds. Completion is estimated for 2024 or 2025 depending on market conditions.
The .12-acre expansion will bring new features to the park, such as artwork, updated lighting, large sidewalks, new benches, shade trees and native landscaping. The project will add more green space to downtown and provide another unique gathering spot for residents, workers and visitors.
2024
Orlando, FL
Orlando, FL
Winter Park, FL
Orlando, FL
Universal Orlando
Downtown Orlando
Want to stay updated with all things real estate and entertainment in Central Florida throughout the year? Scan the QR code to receive my monthly newsletter highlighting the most exciting happenings each month. Tiffany Pantozzi | Founder, ALIGN Real Estate | (407) 707-8311
REAL ESTATE REPORT A detailed look into the area's most recent sales for November year over year.
WINTER GARDEN homes sold
$100,000 - $500,000 $500,000 - $1M $1M+
$376K
homes
dollars
23.33%
41 homes
4.65%
10 100%
WINDERMERE
$500,000 - $1M $1M+
average $ / SQFT
23
homes
$100,000 - $500,000
average sales price
2.6%
97.7%
Dollars
2.88%
percent
8.43%
percent
$1.5M
$386
dollars
Dollars
9.17%
$423K
homes
2.17%
dollars
12.6%
$271 Dollars
$267 Dollars
100%
dollars
NMLS 1457759
3.87%
Dollars
days
0.5%
days
1.9%
days
percent
4.9%
percent
REPORT
227%
13 0.8%
days
8.33%
64 2.8%
days
2.4%
days
98.3%
Interested in buying or selling? I would love to be your trusted advisor. Scan the QR code below to get started.
average days on market
96.6% 5.12%
62.07%
49
sales to list %
percent
31.13%
47
97.8% 17.3%
$1.851M $431
10 homes
dollars
30 2.1%
95.9%
average $ / SQFT
$731K 33.3%
percent
$250
4.04%
4
10
99.1% 10.73%
dollars
average sales price
71.4%
Dollars
$665K
homes sold
homes
$258
average days on market
sales to list %
327%
TIFFANY PANTOZZI tiffany@alignagents.com (407) 707-8311 ALIGNagents.com @TiffanyPantozzi
54 116%
*Statistics from StellarMLS as of 11/21/23 and are deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
ASK THE LENDER Q: How does house hacking impact my mortgage eligibility?
House Hacking House hacking is a real estate investment strategy where individuals maximize the use of a property by renting out a portion of it to generate income. The goal is to reduce or eliminate the cost of living for the property owner by using rental income to cover mortgage expenses. Suppose you purchase a multi-family home with 3 units. Here's how it might work:
1. Primary Residence: Occupy one unit, preserving your living space while capitalizing on the property's investment potential.
2. Unit Rentals: Rent out the other two units to tenants, including students, young professionals, or those seeking shared living.
3. Rental Income: The income covers a significant portion, if not all, of
your mortgage, property taxes, and housing expenses, reducing your out-of-pocket costs. 4. Financial Benefits: Utilize rental income to build equity, potentially saving for future real estate investments. The property's appreciation over time can yield long-term financial gains.
A: House hacking can positively affect your mortgage eligibility. Lenders consider the potential rental income from the property, allowing you to qualify for a larger loan amount. This is because the rental income contributes to your ability to repay on your mortgage payments, making you a more attractive borrower.
Q: What are the down payment requirements for house hacking? A: FHA loans allow for a down payment as low as 3.5% and are more lenient with credit requirements. For well qualified borrowers, conventional loans allow for higher purchase price/loan amount and a down payment as low as 5% thanks to new Fannie Mae Guidelines for house hacking.
Q: What type of properties are suitable for house hacking?
TOMMY COSTANZA Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS 2285340 (561) 716-5250 tcostanza@umortgage.com NMLS 1457759
Questions? Scan the QR code to connect.
A: Multi-unit properties, such as duplexes, triplexes, or fourplexes, are commonly used for house hacking.
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Lifestyle Letter
January 2024 PUBLISHER
Sandie Beauchamp sandie.beauchamp@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R
Pamela Ford | pamela.ford@citylifestyle.com
As we stand at the crossroads of another amazing year, I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt wishes to this extraordinary community. It is not just as your publisher but as a longtime resident and neighbor that I am excited to embark on this journey with you. Having had the privilege of calling Winter Garden home for the past 20 years, I've witnessed the growth, resilience, and warmth that define our city. From raising my family here to forging lasting connections, each moment has been a testament to the unique spirit of the West Orange community. Now, as I take on the role of your new publisher, I am eager to contribute to the storytelling that makes our community so special. Your stories are my stories, and I am honored to be the voice that echoes the shared experiences of this great place we call home. I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be your publisher, and I look forward to amplifying the narratives that make our community shine. As we step into the new year together, I am optimistic about the countless stories waiting to be written, and I am excited to be a part of each one. Here's to a New Year filled with shared moments, continued growth, and the enduring strength of our remarkable community. Thank you for your support!
STAF F W R I T E R
Ashley Beauchamp CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Claudia Martin C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R
Janie Jones
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Josh Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
S A N D I E B E A U C H A M P, P U B L I S H E R @WINTERGARDENCITYLIFESTYLE
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Winter Garden City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Media Partners LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Winter Garden area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/WINTERGARDEN
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
Media Partners’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Media Partners’ does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Winter Garden City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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inside the issue JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S
08 20
28
Featured
08 14 20 28 6
14 On the Cover
A FRESH START Westly’s ready for 2024
SMOOTHIE BOWLS POWER POSES
5 Yoga Poses to Boost Your Confidence and Self-esteem
WHAT’S IN YOUR CART?
HEALTHY AND AFFORDABLE MEAL PREP FOR YOUR LIFE!
Photography: Janie Jones Photography
Departments 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS
12
Self Care HEALTH + WELLNESS
14
Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E
20
Get Active HEALTH + WELLNESS
24
Eat Right FOOD + BEVERAGE
28
Trend Setter FOOD + BEVERAGE
32
Events
The best brands are in your neighborhood. Let us help you find the right tools for the job!
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Westly’s Ready for 2024
8
H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS
Hey y’all, Westly here! If we haven’t met, I’m the charming, handsome, and humble orange character you’ve been seeing around town with my friends at Healthy West Orange. You can’t miss me! Who else is feeling ready for a fresh start in 2024? As we’ve learned in the last couple years, sometimes a new year doesn’t happen the way we think it will. But I know one thing’s for sure, our community is awesome! Whether your goals involve getting active, eating healthy, relaxing, or all of the above, there are places in our community to do it all! So come along on my tour of some healthy spots right in our backyard. I’ve got a few tips on hand
that you might not know about. PLUS, read along until the end where you’ll learn about my 7th Annual Virtual 5K happening all month long! It’s free, family-friendly, and has a virtual and in-person option. You’ll be ready to take on 2024!
on foot. I’m talking 22 miles of paved trail, from Apopka, through Ocoee, Winter Garden, and Oakland. It’s definitely the best way to get around town! But have you seen how many workout groups, activities, and events happen along the trail? You can rent a bike from Wheelworks, snip fresh herbs at my community garden in Oakland, or join a local exercise group like the West Orange Trail Sole-Mates or Winter Garden Runners! I love seeing folks get active together; it adds motivation and encouragement to a workout, and not to mention making new friends! You can totally train CONTINUED >
WEST ORANGE TRAIL, WORKOUTS YOUR WAY
There’s no way you can stroll around Winter Garden and not see folks zooming down the West Orange Trail on bikes, rollerblades, and
JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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NGE A DAY A R KE E “O - SOMETH Y PS A I W N A G L TH IKE E DOCTOR THAT , RIG H heard of microgreens before, and now I pick them up every Saturday to put on all my salads! A top goal of mine for the new year is to add one more fruit or vegetable to my plate at each meal. Picking up my groceries from the market gets me so excited and motivated to eat healthy! An orange a day keeps the doctor away - something like that, right?
TUCKER RANCH, A GROWING TREASURE
for a marathon, or take a relaxing walk with your pup, which is personally my favorite way to enjoy the trail. You can even see me at the Oakland Outpost cheering folks on! Stop by and snap a healthy selfie with me in 2024!
WINTER GARDEN FARMERS MARKET, MORE TO EXPLORE
Speaking of traveling the town on the West Orange Trail, one of my favorite stops off the trail is the Winter Garden Farmers Market! This is my go-to for fresh fruits, veggies, and more! But it’s more than just buying produce; I love chatting with local farmers about what’s in season, how to cook it, what items hold up best for meal-prepping, and even how to grow my own backyard garden! So be sure to stop and talk with the vendors. For instance, I had never
10
H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS
Life can get busy here in our community. Between early school mornings, commuting, and long days in front of computer screens, everyone needs a mental wellbeing break once in a while. Picture this: you’re walking under the shade of beautiful oak trees, listening to the birds sing, and watching the water ripple along a lake. This isn’t imaginary, this is real life at Tucker Ranch Recreational Park and Nature Preserve over on Avalon Road! 10/10 recommend for a dose of relaxation. Did I mention they have an awesome playground too? Parents – bring the kids to get their energy out and have a picnic, it’s sure to be a wellbeing boost for the whole fam! There are exciting additions coming to Tucker Ranch soon, stay tuned! So, ready for your fresh start? Join the community and get active with Westly’s 7th Annual Virtual 5K and walk, run, bike, or even skateboard your way to 3.1 miles all January long, wherever you like. You can also join our awesome community group to complete your 5K in-person on Saturday, January 27 in Oakland on the West Orange Trail. I’ll be here to cheer you on! Register at HWOEvents.org
R HT?”
JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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Daily Gratitude Journal Prompts ARTICLE BY DELIA JO RAMSEY The art of gratitude can be healing well beyond the month of November, but this is a great time of year to get in the true mindset of gratefulness. To aid in your endeavors, check out these 30 daily gratitude journal prompts and stick to them until it feels natural.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
14. 15. 16. 17.
18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25.
26. 27. 28. 29. 30.
12
Five things that make you happy instantly: Did you get any pleasant surprises today? Did you do any acts of kindness today? What's something big or small you can do for those less fortunate than yourself? Five personality traits you're grateful for: Favorite song and how does it make you feel? One small step you can take toward overcoming a challenge you currently face: List something good that caught your attention today. What nice thing did another person do for you this week? What's something you did for another person this week? Three things you own that make your life easier: How can you turn something that makes you angry into something more pleasant? Think of five people who irritate you or you have trouble getting along with. Name three positive qualities about them. What are you most thankful for in your life? Name three of your significant accomplishments. Most stunning place you’ve ever visited: Think about the personalities and unique qualities of someone you admire. Which qualities of them do you want to see in yourself, too? What's your favorite holiday and why? What friends are you most grateful for having in your life? What basic daily necessities are you thankful for today? What are you grateful for in your career? Focus on your five senses and write down how you can make them more active. Three elements of nature you're most grateful for: Three things you love about your town: List three struggles you experienced and overcame in your life. What did you do to overcome them, and who helped you through them? What meals do you enjoy most? Something you saw this week that melted your heart: A time when someone went out of their way to support you: A happy memory from childhood: Make a list of five places you'd like to visit and consider visiting at least one very soon.
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JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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14
C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
SMOOTHIE BOWLS
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES Start your day with a nutritious and vitamin-packed breakfast. Smoothie bowls are a great way to add a variety of fruits and vegetables. Top with chia or flax seeds for an extra omega-3 boost, nuts or seeds for added protein, or sliced fruit for additional vitamins and fiber. Including a hint of turmeric or ginger can aid in digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can aid in cellular repair and gut health, and smoothie bowls are a delicious way to incorporate more into your day. Try some of these simple recipes, or create your own combinations to give your health a boost. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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Pine ap p
o B wl a n a n a B le
INGREDIENTS: • 2 cups frozen pineapple • 1 frozen banana • 1 handful spinach (optional) • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice • 1 tablespoon manuka honey (or other natural sweetener) • ¼ inch fresh ginger • ½ cup coconut water TOPPING SUGGESTIONS: • fresh fruit • seeds • pomegranate seeds
16
C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
Add all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a bowl and top with desired toppings.
B owl at e
ol INGREDIENTS: • 2 frozen bananas • 2 tablespoons cacao powder • 2 tablespoons peanut butter (or other nut butter) • 1 date • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract • ¼ cup almond milk or oat milk • 2 tablespoons chia seeds, optional Add all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a bowl and top with desired toppings.
TOPPING SUGGESTIONS: • banana slices • oats • granola • chia seeds • coconut flakes • chopped nuts • cacao nibs
Nut
h C ty
c o
CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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owl tB as
Citru sB l
INGREDIENTS: • 1 orange • 1 clementine • 1 ½ cups frozen strawberries • ½ cup frozen blueberries or raspberries • ¼ cup fresh spinach or kale • 1 tablespoon cranberry juice • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice • 1-2 dates • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger • 3 tablespoons oat milk or almond milk • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon • 2 teaspoons raw or manuka honey Blend all ingredients and pour into a bowl. Top with desired toppings.
18
C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
TOPPING SUGGESTIONS: • fresh berries • oats • clementines • chia seeds
INGREDIENTS: • 1 orange or 2 clementines • ½ cup carrots • 1 cup frozen mangos • 1 cup frozen peaches • ½ banana • ½ cup vanilla yogurt • ½ teaspoon turmeric, ground • small pinch of pepper Blend all ingredients until smooth. Top with desired toppings.
TOPPING SUGGESTIONS: • granola • sliced almonds • berries • ground flax seeds
Ca
rro
t
Or
an
g e B o wl
JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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POWER POSES 5 Yoga Poses to Boost Your Confidence and Self-esteem
ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT
Brett Larkin, is the founder of Uplifted Yoga and teaches yoga designed to ignite a personal transformation. Her award-winning YouTube channel has over 500,000 subscribers. A trailblazer in the online yoga space, she started certifying yoga teachers virtually through her online yoga school in 2015. Brett shares five power poses to incorporate into your practice for a confident and powerful new year. For more info about Brett and her online training options for all levels, go to BrettLarkin.com.
20
G E T ACT IV E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS
Low Lunge (Parsva Anjaneyasana) Stand taller and open your side body in this low lunge variation.
Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana) Project radiance up and out from your heart while strengthening your back body.
CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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Camel Pose (Ustrasana) Open your heart for increased confidence and counteract “text neck” while you’re at it.
CAN YOGA HELP BUILD SELF-ESTEEM? Confidence is all about feeling good in your own skin, and practicing yoga makes you more aware of your body. You are tuning into your breath, your feelings, and your true vision. Physically it strengthens you. Mentally it helps you focus. With improved posture, you stand taller; and with a clear mind you are more prepared and confident to take on what comes your way.
Shoulder Stand (Sarvangasana) Usher in a fresh perspective and new creative ideas. Also great for relieving low back pain.
22
G E T ACT IV E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS
Wild Thing (Camatkarasana) Take up space. Get fierce. Practice stretching into the fullest expression of who you are.
JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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M I X IN G H E A LT H A ND F L AV O R Delicious Mocktails to Savor Without the Alcohol.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
24
EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE
ROSEMARY PEAR MOCK TAIL
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP • 1 cup cane sugar • 1 cup water • 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL • 5 tablespoon pear juice • 1 tablespoon rosemary simple syrup • 1 teaspoon lemon or lime juice • sparkling water to taste
HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP Combine sugar and water in a pot and cook over medium heat. Cook until sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off heat and toss in rosemary sprigs. Cool Completely. HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL Pour pear juice, rosemary simple syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling water. Add ice and garnish if desired. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCK TAIL INGREDIENTS THYME SIMPLE SYRUP • 1 cup cane sugar • 1 cup water • 1/3 cup fresh thyme GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL • 3 cups water • 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice • 1/3 cup thyme syrup • Ice
INSTRUCTIONS HOW TO MAKE SIMPLE SYRUP: Combine water and sugar to a pot. Bring to a boil and then simmer for a few minutes. Remove from the heat and add fresh thyme and steep. HOW TO MAKE GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL Rim glass with sugar if desired. Fill glass with ice. Add 3 tablespoons thyme syrup to each glass and fill up with 1/2 cup grapefruit juice and approximately 1 cup sparkling water. Garnish.
W I Z A R D LY BUTTER BEER INGREDIENTS BUTTER BEER • 2 liters of Creme Soda • Tablespoons Butter Extract • 2 Teaspoons Rum Extract CREME TOPPING • 7 ounce container of Marshmallow creme or fluff • 1 1/2 cups whipping cream • 1 teaspoon rum extract
INSTRUCTIONS Add the rum extract and butter extract to the 2 liter of cream soda. Close lid and gently mix. Prepare the topping by combining the marshmallow creme, whipping cream and rum extract. Beat on high for a few minutes until peaks appear. Add a few tablespoons of whipped topping to the bottom of glass. Pour cream soda over topping. Enjoy!
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EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE
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JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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W H AT’S IN YOUR CART? H E A LT H Y A N D A F F O R DA B L E M E A L P R E P F O R YO U R L I F E !
If you find yourself skipping meals because you don’t have time, or if you believe eating healthy is unaffordable, fear not and read on! As a dietitian, I can tell you that eating healthy is easier than you think if you follow these tips:
ARTICLE BY CLAUDIA MARTIN-AYOADE, MBA, MS, RD, LD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
28
T R E N D SE T T E R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE
TIP #1 YOU CAN STILL HAVE A VARIETY OF HEALTHY AND DELICIOUS FOODS BY PLANNING AND PREPPING YOUR MEALS FOR THE WEEK. • Preparing whole meals or dishes ahead of time saves a lot of time for busy people. • Ingredients required for specific meals can be prepped ahead of time to reduce total cooking time in the kitchen. • Having pre-prepared meals on hand can also reduce portion size and help you reach your nutrition and wellness goals. • Choose microwave and freezer safe containers for proper storage, including BPA-free plastic, flexible silicone or glassware containers. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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TIP #2
TIP #3
C H O O S E I N G R E D I E N T S T H AT A R E V E R S AT I L E A N D C A N B E U S E D I N M U LT I P L E M E A L S TO R E D U C E WAS T E A N D SAV E M O N E Y.
M A K E A G R O C E RY L I S T B E F O R E YO U G O S H O P P I N G .
• Example: Choose familiar recipes for tacos, chili or spaghetti in the same week to use all your ground beef or turkey. I brown the ground beef and portion it in freezer bags flattened out for space saving freezing and time-saving cooking. • Pre-cut vegetables can be used for fresh ready-to-eat meals that do not require cooking, like salads and sandwiches or as part of a cooked recipe. Include leftovers in meal planning. • I also cut up ripe fresh fruits and freeze them to use in smoothies instead of throwing them out. • Frozen fruits and vegetables often cost less and last longer than fresh ones. They retain high-quality nutrients because they are frozen immediately after being harvested. • Most frozen vegetables have no additives and preservatives, but some may contain added seasonings, salt, sugar or sauces. Avoid added ingredients by paying attention to the label and ingredient list.
• A list helps limit distractions, keep you on budget, restricts unhealthy impulse purchases and reduces multiple trips for forgotten items. • Buy kitchen staples to have on hand to make quick simple meals like canned tomatoes, tuna fish or salmon, corn, your favorite beans and grains such as rice, quinoa, barley, farro and whole grain pasta. • Plan your menus based on grocery store sales and produce that are in season and add beans for plantbased protein. • Buy extra staples when they are on sale, and don’t overlook the bulk bins to buy just the amount you need. • Buy pre-prepped items in the grocery store to further save time or use the salad bar for small servings.
TIP #4 T RY N OT TO G R O C E RY S H O P W H E N YO U A R E H U N G RY. • Everything looks delicious when you are hungry, and this could lead to unnecessary and unhealthy food purchases. • The additional calories may not be needed, and food could be wasted if not eaten.
MEAL PREPPING CAN IMPROVE Y O U R H E A LT H A N D YOU R L I F E !
TIP #5 H E A LT H Y S N AC K S A R E P O S S I B L E . The total amount of snacks you prepare will depend on the required number of snacks planned daily, based on your health and wellness goals.
M Y S N AC K S O F C H O I C E I N C LU D E : • • • •
Nut butters with crackers or pretzels Fresh fruit (whole or pre-cut) Sliced vegetables String cheese, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, hummus • Home-made trail mix with dried fruit, unsalted nuts and seeds, to limit sugar and sodium intake Portioning snacks during your overall meal prep prevents mindless snacking without knowing how much you are actually eating.
Claudia Martin-Ayoade, MBA, MS, RDN, LD, is a registered dietitian/nutritionist at agesmartnutrition.com
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T R E N D SE T T E R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE
OUR GOAL IS TO MAKE SAVORY, COMFORT FOOD FAVORITES - THE HEALTHY WAY! THE ONLY WAY TO STICK TO YOUR DIET IS TO ENJOY WHAT YOU’RE EATING. 407.614.4602 | CLEANEATZ.COM/HEALTHY-MEAL-PLANS 9250 MILEY DRIVE - SUITE 150, WINTER GARDEN, FLORIDA
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99 W Plant ST. (DOWNTOWN) Winter Garden, FL 34787 JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WI NT E R GA R D E N
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JANUARY 2024
events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S F R I DAYS
Farmer’s Market (Windermere) 520 Main Street, Windermere, FL 34786 | 9:00 AM We have a wide range of vendors offering fresh produce, seafood, breads and pastries, coffee, hummus, candles, soaps, essential oils, clothing, jewelry, craftwork, flowers, and more! SAT U RDAYS
Farmer’s Market (Winter Garden) Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue | 8:00 AM The award-winning Winter Garden Farmers Market takes place every Saturday. More than 100 vendors participate weekly at the Winter Garden Farmers Market selling a wide variety of items. Leashed dogs and cats are welcome. SU NDAYS
Farmer’s Market (Clermont) W Montrose Street, Clermont, FL 34711 | 9:00 AM Enjoy the outdoors as you shop our market featuring 40 vendors selling local produce, meat, honey, eggs, seafood, handmade gifts and home goods. JA NUA RY 2 N D A N D 4 TH TH URS DAYS
Farmer’s Market (Oakland) 126 Petris Avenue, Oakland, FL | 10:00 AM Join a wide range of high quality vendors offering fresh produce, specialty items, homemade food, and arts & crafts.
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Storytime on the porch 126 Petris Avenue, Oakland, FL | 10:00 AM Join us on the porch of The Healthy West Orange Arts & Heritage Center for Story Time on the Porch. In partnership with The Orange County Library, our youngest friends will have the opportunity to listen to a children's book and participate in a free activity. Most appropriate for ages 2-6 years but all book lovers are welcome! JA N UA RY 5T H - 7 T H
Annual Orlando Home and Garden Show Orange County Convention Center South Concourse – HALL B 9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 | 12:00 PM "Turn Your Home and Garden Dreams into Reality" The Orlando Home and Garden Show offers a wide range of products and discounts under one roof. It also provides fun activities for the family and inspiration for businesses and homes. • 12:00 PM - 06:00 PM (1/5/2024) • 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM (1/6/2024) • 11:00 AM - 05:00 PM (1/7/2024) JA N UA RY 5T H , 1 2 TH , 19TH , 2 6TH
Friday’s on the plaza Downtown Winter Garden, Centennial Plaza Gazebo | 7:00 PM - 9:00PM Come enjoy live music every Friday night on the Plaza. • January 5- Southbound Duo (Bluegrass, Folk) • January 12- Amy Robbins (American Folk, Country, Acoustic) • January 19- Porchdogs (Cajun, Zydeco) • January 26- Ashley Christensen (Blues, Pop, Country)
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events
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JA NUA RY 1 3T H
Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade 425 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL | 10:00 AM The Southwest Orlando Jaycees invites you to participate in the 40th Annual Downtown Orlando MLK Holiday Parade. JA NUA RY 1 5T H
Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration 104 S Lakeview Avenue, Winter Garden, FL 34787 | 11:00AM - 4:00PM A parade kickoff at 11 AM, live music, family-friendly activities, food and more! JA NUA RY 2 6T H - 2 7 T H
Rock the Universe Universal Studios Orlando 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | 4:00PM - 1:00PM “Raise Your Hands. Raise Your Voice. Raise Your Spirit.” Rock the Universe is an unforgettable weekend of faith and fun. On January 26 and 27, 2024, experience powerful beats from Christian Music’s brightest stars and thrilling rides at Universal Studios Florida. JA NUA RY 2 7 T H
Heritage Day Speer Park 331 N Tubb St, Oakland, FL 34760 | 10:00 AM - 2:00PM Celebrate Oakland’s small-town charm, unique history, nature, wellness and the arts with a family-friendly day of live music, food trucks, fine arts and crafts, quality vendors, interactive kids’ activities, and more. JA NUA RY 2 7 T H
Westly's 7th Annual Virtual 5K, hosted by Healthy West Orange West Orange Trail Start the year off with a healthy accomplishment by participating in Westly's 7th Annual Virtual 5K, hosted by Healthy West Orange! Family-friendly, free, & virtual AND in-person options. You’ll even get a race T-shirt and medal at the finish line! Sign up at HWOEvents.org!
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