Food for Thought : Administrative Professionals Day

My son's administrative  assistant      we thank you Anita for  keeping him in line .

Today is Administrative Professionals Day .The observance is a day to recognize the work of secretaries , administrative  assistants , receptionists  and other administrative assistants  support  support professionals . Anyone who has ever had  an administrative assistant knows the values of their  contribution  to any organization . Typically , the job requires long periods of sitting at a desk , high stress  and sometime eating  in front of a computer , all which do not promote  optimal health . While  flowers  and candy are a frequently given , showing someone  you care about their health can mean much more . Here are a few tips  to help you celebrate  celebrate the day in a healthy way .

Help make it easier for employees to take physical activity breaks . Schedule  activity breaks  within the work day that employees can get away  from their  desk for a short walk  or stretch break . Physical activity is great for overall health  , and makes us all more productive .

Going to lunch ? Forgo the buffets  and fried foods . There are plenty  of places that offer healthier options . Fruit baskets  and similar items  are great gifts for the day .

Create a healthy work place . Have  fresh fruits or vegetables  available  and promote healthy lifestyles .
                                                  Three Bean Salad with Wild Rice

Three bean salad with wild rice that can be made ahead and tastes great at room temperature. Perfect for picnics, potlucks and leftovers!
 Serves 8-10    Time: 30 minutes

3    cups cooked wild rice blend, cooled
1    (14-ounce) can kidney beans (dark or light), rinsed and drained
1    (14-ounce) can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
1    (14-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1    (10 ounce) package frozen peas, thawed
1    red bell pepper, diced
2    jalapenos, diced (if sensitive to spice, remove seeds and membrane and just add 1)
1/2   red onion, diced
1/2   cup freshly chopped cilantro
2      tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1      tablespoon honey (sub agave to make vegan)
2      limes, zest and juice
1/2   teaspoon kosher salt

1 .  In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, black beans, peas, bell pepper, jalapeno, red onion, and cilantro.
2 .  In a small bowl, large measuring cup, or mason jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, honey, lime zest, lime juice, and salt. Pour over the salad, then toss gently to combine. If time allows, refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
3 .  Salad will taste best eaten within two days but can last three or four tightly covered in the refrigerator. Freeze, tightly covered, for up to 1 month. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

I like to think my son for the  swell job he did  in my absent .  Now my dear son , it is not  what you do with  the ladies if you catch them ,   it is  the thrill of the hunt , never steered you wrong  , love you dearly  my son .

A proud grand-poppa              G .