I have been so very busy recently that I had been skimping on breakfast.  I would just grab an apple or banana and hit the road.  Now for some people that might be all they need to get going, but I need a whole lot more to keep me going until lunchtime.  Sitting down with a bowl of oatmeal or some fruit and yogurt is just not an option for me right now with my crazy schedule, so I had to do something.  

I went out and I bought a new blender.  It’s nothing fancy just a Cuisinart that was on sale.  In fact I think I spent more on my new direct tv packages than my blender, but a girl’s got to have television.  Anyway, I am in love with my blender.  I have been making all sorts of delicious smoothies that start my day off right.  Of course I want to share them all with you, so here are my favorites for different days:

• Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie – This smoothie is a great idea for any day, and it tastes like a milkshake.  For one serving add 1/4 cups instant oatmeal (dry), 1 tablespoon peanut butter, 4 ounces of plain Greek yogurt, and one medium to large sized banana.  Blend until it is smooth for a delicious breakfast at 345 calories.  It keeps me full until lunch!
• Blueberry Antioxidant Smoothie – I like to have this smoothie on days when I know I am going to be training at the gym for a couple of hours.  It definitely gives my energy.  I love putting greens into my smoothies, but I know other people don’t like the idea of drinking something green.  This smoothie includes spinach and it is purple not green.  Add one cup of fresh or frozen blueberries, 1/2 cup instant oats, 2 cups of baby spinach leaves, 1.5 tablespoons of peanut butter, and 1 small slice of peeled lemon (optional) in the blender.  Add ice or water if desired–I like mine a bit thick–and blend it up.  At 375 calories you can expect this smoothie to be a great go to breakfast.
• Strawberry Banana Smoothie – On rest days I don’t need as many calories, so this is my smoothie of choice.  Add one banana, a cup of frozen sliced strawberries, and one cup of plain Greek yogurt.  Blend until smooth.  It’s 300 calories of wonderful deliciousness!