As I type this, we are driving through Oklahoma! We left for our trip to Dallas last night at 6:30. I drove the first leg, 5 hours, until St. Louis, which was snowy the whole way, but not too bad. As soon as Joe took over, the roads cleared! I loved having Joe as my personal DJ, changing up the music whenever I wanted. Our musical sampling: Regina Spektor, Dave Matthews, Corinne Bailey Rae, Guster, Keane, Howie Day, John Mayer (blast from the past with the last 3!), Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jack Johnson and Jars of Clay. Oh and Larry (Joe’s Dad) sang along to some Regina Spektor, which was AWESOME. I just suggested that once we hit Texas it’s David Crowder Band time-their homeland!

Now at 8:23 a.m. we are listening to Johnny Cash as we drive through Oklahoma, which makes me think of the wonderful Pioneer Woman-I wonder if we’re close to her ranch? I get excited when we pass by a really dirty pick up truck or stop at the gas station and see an older man with weathered skin, a denim shirt, muddy jeans and cowboy boots. Love it.

*edited to add: Joe and Larry are now dancing to Moby. You guys, there should be a video camera in this van!

I’m thinking this will get published at some point today when I have internet. I can’t wait to see everyone and meet our sweet baby nephew!

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Birthday Party!

Last weekend we celebrated the winter birthdays (mine, Dad, Steve-my brudder, and Uncle Gary’s). Here are some pictures from another wonderful night with family!

 

Uncle Vito going blind wearing Steve’s glasses

(Dad and Gma dancing to Dean Martin, or was it Frank? I can’t remember. So cute!!!)

 

Grandma playing Deal or No Deal on Ashlyn’s Nintendo. hahah

 

I loved these 5 layer bars my mom made! With coconut, semi sweet chips, and craisins!

Chocolate cake with homemade whipped cream frosting!

My uncle Vito made these Italian pastries! They were delicious! They had a creamy filling but I totally forget what they’re called.

I am so blessed with an amazing family!

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“Follow God’s example in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to him.” Ephesians 5:1,2

xoxo

Lauren

Last week Joe and I went to hang with his sisters Anna and Lora and our niece Madelyn (Lora, please tell Brandon that we wish he didn’t work every time we hang out!). It’s kind of funny how we hang out at their parent’s house while they were out of town with Em and Steve and new baby, Sam! LB and GB, we missed you!

Oh, Joe. P.S. He is growing a beard.

So anyways, I brought the fixings for taco salad. This really isn’t a recipe, more like an idea for dinner, so I dub this “throw together” dinner number one.

The ground turkey was kind of lame, to be totally honest. I seasoned it with chili powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and then some tomato paste, but it was drier than I wanted and kind of bland. BUT, if you mix something with lots of salsa, fresh cilantro, sour cream, guac, etc. It will taste good!

After making this, I proceeded to eat half a bag some more chips with cilantro, salsa, and sour cream on top-like mini nachos one by one. I love fresh “Mexican” food, what can I say?

This did make tasty leftovers too. Once again I ate more of the blue chips “nacho” style like I would never get to eat them again.

 

Mmm love me some cilantro. So I think I liked what I did with the leftovers (second pic) more (less meat, lots of spinach, more black beans warmed up with chili powder, and even more cilantro). If you want to make, here are some of my favorite mix-ins.

Taco Salad

• Black beans, rinsed and drained, warmed up with some chili powder
• Medium salsa (gotta have a little kick)
• Spinach and romaine
• Tortilla chips (I love the organic kind because then I think they’re “healthier” and I can eat more! I kid I kid…
• Organic sour cream/plain yogurt/Greek yogurt
• Fresh cilantro!
• Fresh guacamole
• And if you want meat: make sure you season well and taste/adjust before serving :/
• Oh, forgot about cheese. Probably because it gets lost in there so I don’t always  bother. Unless you’re at Chipotle and they give you a pound of it. Yum.

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Throw together dinner number two: Baked Pasta with Broccoli

 

I think everyone and their mom has made a version of this. All I did was just add a little ricotta that I had leftover to cooked brown rice pasta with a jar of marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, garlic, and broccoli that I added to the boiling pasta for a few minutes. Topped with some parmesan and mozz and baked at 375 for about 15 minutes.

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Throw together dinner number three: General Tso Shrimp and Veggies

Once again, guys, this isn’t a recipe, or creative, just an idea, but it was so yummy, so I’m sharing!

Stir fry at least one large bag of mixed veggies (I had a mix that had broccoli, carrots, onions, water chestnuts, and sugar snap peas, then added half a bag of frozen peas). After rinsing frozen medium shrimp under cold water for a few minutes to defrost, I added them to the veggies. Then I topped with half a bottle of Trader Joe’s General Tso sauce. Yum! Served on top of brown rice. It tastes even better when eaten with chop sticks.

After you eat this, make these: Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels!

I’ve had these from TJ’s before, but I had just plain peanut butter filled pretzels, which I think a lot places sell, so I decided to make them much better by dipping in melted chocolate. Um ridiculous.

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Somehow I took like 8 days to put together this post. Huh. I will have a weekend recap soon.

Church today was amazing. For the next eight weeks we will be completely devoted to studying serving as a whole church, in our small groups, and we are getting out and doing it. Our church has always provided SO MANY opportunities to serve others, but this is just an awesome refreshing reminder and boost in that direction, both in ways to serve our loved ones, and the community and world at large.

We read today about Jesus washing his disciples feet, something that was considered the lowliest servant task. He showed us to serve in the everyday, little things, and in HUGE ways as well-giving up his life for us. I was reminded how much I need to ask the Lord to fill me with His love-a perfect love-every single day. I will struggle to have the energy, joy, and commitment to serve with my own conditional love. Jesus humbled himself that night he washed their feet, loved his disciples who weren’t always a loyal bunch, and gave us another beautiful example to follow.

Jesus said: “And since I, the Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. How true it is that a servant is not greater than the master. Nor are messengers more important than the one who sends them. You know these things-now do them! That is the path of blessing.” John 13:14-17

xoxo

Lauren

Saturday was a mix of productivity, laziness, working out, and a new recipe-which.is.awesome. I was inspired by this recipe (from Cooking Light as usual). FYI: I will type a recipe idea into their website and then adapt to make using more whole foods or more flavorful or easier and occasionally I follow the recipe exactly. With this recipe, I changed to use wheat flour, a tad less sugar, and coconut oil instead of butter.

Please, make this recipe:

Coconut Wheat Pancakes

• 1 1/2  cups  whole wheat white flour (I found at TJ’s-you could use a mix of whole wheat and all purpose)
• 1.5  tablespoons  sugar
• 2  tablespoons  flaked sweetened coconut
• 1  teaspoon  baking powder
• 1/2  teaspoon  salt
• 1  (13.5-ounce) can light coconut milk
• 1  tablespoon  coconut oil, melted
• 1  large egg, lightly beaten

Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flour and next 4 ingredients (through salt) in a large bowl. Combine coconut milk, butter, and egg; stir well. Add coconut milk mixture to flour mixture, stirring until smooth.

Pour about 1/4 cup batter per pancake onto a hot nonstick griddle or nonstick skillet. Cook 3 minutes or until tops are covered with bubbles and edges look cooked. Carefully turn pancakes over; cook 2 minutes or until bottoms are lightly browned.

These are SO yummy on their own, but they are divine with a tiny hit of pure maple syrup. Or like I had this morning, a leftover pancake warmed up with crunchy peanut butter. Oh and again for a snack with a sprinkle of chocolate chips. I told you these are good!

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Oh man some of my pancakes got well, a little ugly and black. Oooops. I was kind of freaking out in the kitchen, unfortunately. In fact, Joe had to gently remind me to “Calm down, it’s just an egg” as I broke multiple yokes making eggs over easy! Ok now it’s funny, but I really need to work on patience, and not getting worked up when stuff goes wrong. Just picture me with the spatula going “Uhhh I broke another yoke!!!” and “Joe, please come here and man the bacon!”

In the end, breakfast for dinner was a success! We had some yummy natural bacon to use up from the chowder. Guys, newsflash: bacon is awesome. But I wish it was all crispy meat and no chewy fat. Visible meat fat=nastay (in my opinion). I know, I know, “fat gives it all the flavor,” I just don’t want to chew it, or see it, k?

His (just look past the ugly eggs and pancake):

Add a lot more to this plate-I like when my man wants seconds!

Hers:

Plus another piece of bacon and another pancake. Duh.

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Joe came with me to my gym for the first time! The last time we had a gym membership together was when we were 17. At first we started on the elliptical and I warmed up for 5 minutes. Then I ran on the treadmill and he ellipticalled next to me. I haven’t been running for a few weeks because my shins and knees were bothering me and I’m done running with pain. Today: no pain and it was an awesome fast run! Thanks God! I ran my little heart out for only a mile then cooled down.

I’m thinking about maybe just working on speed with a mile or two running, depending on how my legs are feeling. Before I would always try and work on mileage, but injuries would ensue. Or, I could change my mind, like I do every other day.

Ok, so when I was walking after, Joe was like, “wait, I’ve got 3 more minutes.” I can’t tell you how cute that was because a part from his incredibly laborious job, he doesn’t work out.

Um he was like the fastest little elliptical man I’ve ever seen. A lil strength training followed and then, we swam! I hadn’t used the pool gym yet and it was great! My heart was a-pounding…swimming is such a good work out!

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We celebrated the 25th Anniversary of Christ Community Church today. This church changed my life and showed me how to have a real relationship with our God through Christ, which has changed my eternity as well. I am so grateful to see God’s faithfulness to this body of believers.

“We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God’s original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels-everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment. And when it comes to the church, he organizes and holds it together like a head does a body.” Colossians 1:15-18

xoxo

Lauren

First, I have to say:

CONGRATULATIONS to my sister-in-law, Emily and her husband Steve on the birth of their sweet baby boy, Samuel!!!!!! Oh he is so so precious and we can’t wait to go down to Dallas and meet him!

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The following 3 dinners that I’ve made the past week are so completely different, but I don’t take sides, I enjoyed them all.

Sweet Potato Chicken Curry

New England Clam Chowder

Organic Beef Burgers

You can find the original recipe for the curry here (Cooking Light) and the Chowder here. The burgers were all my own, baby.

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Sweet Potato Chicken Curry

I’ve made this before, and put it on the blog (guess I really like it?), but here is the recipe that I slightly adapted (in italics). I definitely recommend it, and it’s awesome for leftovers. My sweet in-laws came over and had it too!

• 2  teaspoons  curry powder
• 1  teaspoon  ground coriander
• 1  teaspoon  ground turmeric
• 1/2  teaspoon  salt
• 1/2  teaspoon  black pepper
• 1/4  teaspoon  ground red pepper (I used prob 1/8 cayenne)
• 1  bay leaf
• 1 1/2  teaspoons  olive oil
• 1 1/2  pounds  skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces (1 lb)
• 1 1/2  cups  vertically sliced onion (whole onion)
• 1 1/2  teaspoons  minced peeled fresh ginger
• 2  garlic cloves, minced
• 1  (14-ounce) can fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
• 1  (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2  cups  (1/2-inch) cubed peeled sweet potato
• 3/4  cup  canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained (whole can)
• 1/2  cup  frozen green peas (1 cup)
• 1  tablespoon  fresh lemon juice (I used 1st time, but not 2nd)

1. Combine curry powder, coriander, turmeric, salt, black pepper, red pepper, and bay leaf in a small bowl.

2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken to pan; sauté 5 minutes or until browned, stirring occasionally. Remove chicken from pan. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion to pan; cook 10 minutes or until tender, stirring frequently. Increase heat to medium-high; return chicken to pan. Cook 1 minute, stirring occasionally. Stir in ginger and garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add curry powder mixture; cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add broth and tomatoes; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 1 hour. Stir in potato and chickpeas. Cook, uncovered, 30 minutes. Add peas; cook 5 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice. Discard bay leaf. (Lauren’s note: sweet potatoes can be added earlier-they take longer to cook than the recommended time.)

I served it over whole wheat cous cous.

This is the way we roll around here. When people come over for dinner, we’re sitting at the island, sitting at the table, on the couch, standing around. Nothing formal in this house. The idea of a big farmhouse table with loved ones all around it is a nice idea for the future, though…

Yummy spices:

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New England Clam Chowder

Again, you can go here for the recipe. (The only things I changed were using only about a tsp. of canola oil instead of 2 Tblsp. of veg oil, and many dashes of hot sauce.)

Joe requested clam chowder, and seeing as he doesn’t care about food nearly as much as me, I was happy to meet his request. And he made it with me!

Oh and you see that garnish there? Yup, it’s supposed to be parsley. I bought cilantro. Oops. Those ugly looking spots are Frank’s hot sauce. Yum.

His:

Hers:

My new favorite dressing: Newman’s Own Organic Low Fat Asian. Soooo good! It is light but really, really flavorful, with almost a spicy kick at the end. I’ve had soy/ginger dressings that I don’t care for, but this Asian dressing was very different.

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Organic Beef Burgers

Ok, guys, this one I am excited about. As some may know, I’m not much of a beef fan, but the other day, I randomly had a big craving for a burger. Then I was thinking about a burger cooked out on the grill, with the sweetest ear of corn fresh from my parents’ garden, and it got me in a total summer nostalgic mood… But anyways, back to the burger. Crazy thing was, my mom grilled burgers that night, and I had no clue! Guess who’s house we went to for lunch on Sunday? Yeah, that’s right.

It doesn’t end there. Maybe my iron is low, maybe I’m not getting enough protein (doubtful), but I wanted another one days later. So while at Trader Joe’s I bought a pound of their organic lean (92/8) ground beef, and a package of whole wheat buns. I know I’ve talked about Costco’s organic ground beef that we use for chili and really like, but I wanted something extra lean since we don’t have a grill to cook it on (nor would I use it in the freezing rain), and I didn’t want a really greasy burger.

So this what I threw in the bowl, and hoped it would all taste good. I also used a few tricks I learned from my dear friend, Rach, and all those times we spent together after school. My other good friend, Giada, doesn’t really make burgers, so I have no tricks from her. I did the pseudo measuring as RR does, as well as quartering the slab o’ meat with indentations to have perfectly portioned burgers.

Recipe (approx. measurements):

1 lb lean ground beef (I swear organic tastes better)

1/2 tsp pepper

1/2 tsp sea salt

2 Tablespoons dried minced onions

Good sprinkle of paprika

Good sprinkle of garlic powder

Before mixing up meat, heat a lightly greased or non stick pan on high. Mix meat, form into four patties, and place on hot skillet. (Good tip: make sure your burgers aren’t really thick:really pat them down, and even do an indent in the middle, because they shrink up as you cook them, and who likes it when they have so much bun and a tiny, thick burger on it?) You can reduce heat to medium/medium-high. Cook for about 5 minutes each side(?). I shut the heat off and covered with lid for about a minute.) Mine were medium cooked, and so juicy, a perfect combo in my opinion.

Served with some roasted green beans.

Joe’s asking when we are going to have these again, and honestly, probably next week!

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I saw this verse, and it got me thinking about summer again, much like the burgers. I’m trying to be content whatever season it may be, not wishing away time, but there is just something, I don’t know, incredibly awesome about summer. I LOVE a warm night with a gentle breeze, laying on your back or craning your neck to stare up at a huge black sky filling with glowing stars.

“When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers-the moon and the stars you have set in place-what are mere mortals that you should think of us, mere humans that you should care for us?” Psalm 8: 3-4

xoxo

Lauren

Hi guys! It’s been awhile! I started this post a few days ago, and didn’t get a chance to finish. I’m reminded this week how precious life is. Between the devastation in Haiti, and the death of Emma, a friend from my high school youth group, I am reminded that I can’t take ONE single day, nor one loved one, or blessing in my life for granted. I hadn’t seen Emma in years, but she had the most beautiful smile, loved people so much, and I have some awesome memories rooming with her on a Florida youth group trip in high school. I know Emma is in a perfect place, she loved Jesus, and I know she is with Him now.

“Pile your troubles on God’s shoulders-he’ll carry your load, he’ll help you out.” Psalm 55:22. If you’re a praying person, please keep praying for the people of Haiti, and for Emma’s family, I truly can’t imagine the kind of pain any of these people are going through. Also, if you’ve wanted to help Haiti financially, please visit www.samiritanspurse.org.

Well, here is the rest of the post I wrote a few days ago….

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I knew Joe and I liked peanut butter, but it wasn’t until I was looking at some pictures on my memory card that had a very common theme. We consume A LOT of peanut butter in this house. Whether it’s a Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie, topped on some oat bran or oatmeal, or some sweet no bake treats, we love it. By the way, I’m so glad to hear that so many of you love the smoothie as much as we do! For you newbies, frozen bananas are key!

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

Dates with peanut butter (and a chocolate chip)

Joe’s famous peanut butter and jelly swirl (when he first made this YEARS ago I thought it looked nasty-but oh man, it’s good.

 

Peanut Butter “Lara” bites

I’ve seen on blogs people make no bake balls that are similar to the Lara bars. I know the Lara bars I’ve had have dates, some kind of nut, and dried fruit, so that was my starting point. I’ve made these twice now and they are delish!

15 dates

Big spoonful of peanut butter

Dried cherries

Pulse dates in a food processor or magic bullet (that’s what I have) until it becomes a paste. Then add the peanut butter and cherries and pulse again. Scoop out with a spoon and form into balls. Set in fridge.

These were so good Joe asked me to make more, so I made with more dates and peanut butter but sans dried fruit (at his request, lame I know) and put in his lunch. I think it is definitely a good source of fats, protein, and good carbs.

No bake peanut butter cookies

I’ve shown these on the blog before, but haven’t made them in awhile. I found the recipe at www.carrotsncake.com They are really good, especially when you refrigerate overnight! Click here for the recipe. (Recipe calls for all purpose flour, but I’ve also had success with whole wheat.)

My Go-To Breakfast: Oatmeal or Oat Bran with Bananas, Cinnamon, and P.B.

My favorite combo:

1/4 cup oat bran

1 cup water

Lots of cinnamon

About 1/2 tsp. chia seeds (stirred in at end)

Top with spoonful of peanut butter and half a banana.

Vanilla Ice Cream with Chocolate Syrup and Peanut Butter

Our go-to ice cream is Breyer’s since there isn’t weird yucky stuff in there, and my favorite chocolate syrup is Trader Joe’s brand-no high fructose corn syrup. Topped with just a tiny amount of peanut butter and it’s such a yummy dessert.

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More recipes and photos to share soon…

“Friends love through all kinds of weather, and families stick together in all kinds of trouble.” Proverbs 17:17

I love you guys!

xoxo

Lauren 

I was all over the place today at the gym. I did 2 miles on the treadmill, first mile was all running, second mile was a mix of incline walking, incline jogging, sprinting at no incline, walking, etc. My shins and legs were a little achy after the 4 mile run, so I really am trying to listen to my body and take it easy with the running. I tell myself I take it slow, but going from practically zero running to 4 miles in about a week is not taking it slow. Duh! Right?!

Then I think I worked every muscle (besides those forearm muscles…). I did these amazing lunges my friend Kim taught me. Please try! I have to be really careful with lunges because of my granny knees, but these are great.

*Edited to add: a demonstration at 10pm! (We’re still waiting for our gas company to hook up the gas for fire, hence the non-used fireplace.)

Hold a ten or twelve pound dumbbell or flat weight and slowly get into a lunge position. Bring the weight under your front leg and hold with both hands. Bend your back leg slowly down while your front leg bends as well (don’t let your knee go over your toes!). You can do however many reps and sets that are challenging to you. I like to do about 3 sets of 12-15 reps on each leg. Oh and wear some shoes when you do them…

I then hit up various strength machines to work all de muscles. I love strength training so much more than cardio. I’d like to know: What do you prefer: strength, cardio, yoga…? And if you really enjoy cardio, how do you make the time go by without getting bored?

I ran into Target to get some eggs (their organic free range eggs are a pretty good price). Of course I walked out with more than just eggs.

There were cereal sales!

I tried two new Kashi cereals that were on sale (and I had a $1 off coupon-score!): Warm Cinnamon and Go Lean Berry Crisp. I took a nibble out of both boxes when I got home. Verdict: delicious!

I spotted this Silk almond milk and picked up the original flavor. Guys, this is the best almond milk I have ever had! It was in the refrigerated section. I highly recommend it!

A lovely snack of cottage cheese with a clementine.

Then, two small bowls of the Kashi Warm Cinnamon with almond milk were enjoyed. Crunch, slurp, yummmm….

 

Kashi and Silk, feel free to send me some coupons for that little sales pitch I just gave. Thanks.

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Dinner was the soup I made yesterday. I got a little heavy handed with the black pepper, but it was yummy…and spicy! If you want a random veggie soup as well, just put chicken broth in a stock pot with a ton of veggies, salt, pepper, herbs or spices, and let it simmer on low for awhile. Detailed recipe, huh?

I also had some homemade bread toasted, with Trader Joe’s Bruschetta sauce, and mozzarella. Yum! I had it at my in-laws last week and just had to have it again!

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I also made some cookies with my new KitchenAid. Thank you soooo much again, Mom and Dad! Here is the recipe I made (I just adapted the Quaker recipe), along with some photos.

(Semi-healthy) Oatmeal-Chocolate Chip-Cranberry Cookies

1/2 cup (1 stick) plus 6 Tablespoons butter, softened

1/3 cup agave nectar*

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

1.5 cups flour (I used all-purpose unbleached)

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 cups oats

1 cup dried cranberries (Craisins)

3/4-1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In large bowl, beat butter, agave nectar, and brown sugar on medium speed until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla; beat well. Add combined flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; mix well. Add oats, cranberries, and chocolate chips; mix well.

Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake 8-10 minutes or until light golden brown.

Cool 1 minute on cookie sheets; remove to wire rack. Cool completely. Store lightly covered. Makes 4 dozen.

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*If you don’t have agave nectar, you can use 1/2 cup granulated sugar. I got this Xagave agave nectar from the Blendtec man at Costco during his demo. It was a GREAT deal, organic, and had fiber(!). You can find agave nectar anywhere, though. The cool thing is that you can use less agave nectar than sugar, (there is a conversion chart on this brand’s bottle), you save a lot of calories, and it is lower on the Glycemic Index. For baking, one cup of sugar=2/3 cup of agave nectar, so I cut that in half for this recipe.

Hi guys! I spy with my little eye…a ham.

Let me know if you make these-you’ll enjoy them! They were perfectly chewy, yet had a bit of crispiness. 

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Joe worked a 15.5 hour day (yowzas!) and when he walked in the door, this is what I saw:

He has to use this truck tomorrow and it was practically in our kitchen. Fun!

The guy doesn’t like beer, but he LOVES root beer. He needed one. Bad.

I also need to trim his sideburns, apparently.

We got these Goose Island Root Beers (made in Chicago! With cane sugar!) at Costco. I think he likes it!

Could I possibly advertise more brands or companies in this post?!

After dinner he needed a smoothie. So I made him my Peanut Butter Frozen Banana Smoothie. Haven’t made it yet? Please stop right now, cut up a banana, put it in the freezer, and make it as soon as that naner is frozen, k?

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I’m reminded more and more how ridiculous I sound every time I complain(it’s one of my New Year’s resolutions/goals to really stop that), whether it is out loud or in my head. I know I shouldn’t complain whenever I do, and that I have it so good compared to SO SO many in this world, but things are getting clearer, thankfully. I’m incredibly blessed. God loves me despite my daily screw ups and sin, and I have an incredible husband, family, and friends. All my needs are cared for. All of them! My need for love, forgiveness, food, comfort, warmth, safety…and pretty much any desire-healthy food, a comfy couch, more clothes than I need, fun kitchen tools, an insanely awesome camera, a car that gets me places (keep it up, Lumi!). So every time I complain that I don’t have enough storage for my ridiculous amounts of kitchen appliances and tools, or enough space for such and such, or that I’m going through something kind of tough, you know what an insult that is to both my husband and to my immensely providing God? Wow, I’m amazed at His grace, and His patience for me. I’m so thankful for my husband who puts up with my criticisms too. The guy pretty much built me a house, how could I ever complain about even one nook or cranny about it?! So, thanks for putting up with me, all of you. Oh contentment and thankfulness, I’m striving for it in all circumstances. Just like Paul.

Paul said in Philippians 4:11-13 “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”

xoxo

Lauren

Joe and I actually managed to not rush Sunday morning by waking up a little earlier, which meant a good breakfast for both of us, and being early for church! Whoa!

I made him an omelet, which is really more scrambled eggs with veggies. I don’t know, we’re weird and don’t really like the texture of an omelet compared to scrambled. Plus I don’t have to do all that crazy flipping action.

It was a four egg omelet scramble. Sauté your veggies first. If I make it for both of us, I just spray the pan with some oil out of my misto, but if it’s just for Joe, it’s usually a big pat of buttah. I just threw in some broccoli, let it cook for a few minutes, then threw in spinach. Beat the eggs with a splash of milk or water, add to pan, hit it with some pepper and salt, cook for a minute, then add the cheese (Mexican for this guy). I served his up with some gorgeous avocado (then after the picture added some sriracha sauce).

I gave him a tiny plate. Because it’s pretty. But he had a hard time eating off of it. Sorry dude.

Just one more picture.

Me, I had some oat bran, with lots of cinnamon, naner, and peanut butter.

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Later that afternoon I got out some chicken stock out of the freezer I made. Just call me Ma Ingalls, I made my own stock! Or was it broth? I wanted to just make a simple veggie soup. No grains, no meat, just some broth and veggies. You can also call me boring.

I just added whatever I wanted, frozen and fresh alike. I used a yellow squash, celery, carrots, onion, frozen peas, and frozen green beans. Then threw in sea salt, black pepper, and all “all purpose” seasoning I had in the swirly cabinet.

While that simmered away on the stove all day and night, I made chili in the crock pot. I was planning ahead for the week, folks!

Want a peek under the lids?

If you have a Costco membership, buy their organic ground beef. It is awesome (for beef-I’m on the biggest red meat girl), and actually a pretty sweet deal.

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Some of my besties came over (Renee and Amelia) and Renee’s hubby, Greg. I made them homemade pizza with some of my dough, and a salad.

Hi girls!

Meals, sorry you are insanely blurry and not really smiling. I’m also sorry to them and to anyone else that I bust my new camera into their face to take a picture. :/

I kept the pizzas super simple, mainly because I used all of my vegetables for those two meals you saw earlier…

Pepperoni and cheese it is!

Pre baked:

Done! (I don’t bake them on cookie sheets, I use the stone, but I had to transfer to cook the other pizza.)

Cheeeese:

My plate (plus another slice):

*edited to add recipe for pizza:

Wheat Dough (for bread or pizza)

(This will make 2 loaves of bread, or two pizzas)

1 packet of yeast

1 Tbsp. Kosher salt or Sea Salt (I use sea salt)

2 cups room temperature water

1 cup white whole wheat flour

3.5 cups unbleached, all purpose flour

1. Combine water, yeast and salt in a very large bowl that comes with a lid (4 qt. bowl or container). You do not need to wait for it to dissolve.

2.Add the flours and combine with a wooden spoon, or in a mixer with a dough attachment, or food processor (I just use a wooden spoon!) If it gets too tough to mix with the spoon, wet your hands and work with the dough until all the flour is combined-but you don’t need to knead! Hey look, homophones! (Nerd!)

3. Cover bowl with lid, but NOT AIR TIGHT and leave at room temperature. The dough will rise, then flatten back out (takes around 2-5 hours).

4. Refrigerate and use within 10 days.

5. This will make two pizza crusts. Roll out on slightly floured surface while a pizza stone is preheating in the oven at 550 degrees. I roll out the dough and then transfer to a bread peel that is heavily covered with cornmeal.

6. Then top with sauce (I love TJ’s pizza sauce), veggies, meat and cheese. Bake for 8 minutes or until cheese is melted. The hot stone will give a crispy, chewy crust.

Then we started talking about organic food, I pushed my views on them (kidding), and then they wanted to watch Food Inc.! So we did!

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It was a good Sunday. An awesome message at church, then we were treated to lunch by Joe’s parents.

I hope everyone has a great week after all the holidays! I’m excited…I think we’re supposed to hit 22 degrees F on Wednesday! Heat wave!

“Sing to the Lord a new song, sing to the Lord all the earth.” Psalm 96:1

xoxo

Lauren

We had a good start to our day and to our New Year’s goals: Joe and I read the first two chapters from Proverbs and prayed together. There are 31 chapters in Proverbs and 31 days in January. I got the idea from Polly!

I then made us a pot of oatmeal. Mine had banana, chia seeds, a spoonful of cottage cheese, and a spoonful of peanut butter. Joe’s had banana, peanut butter, and Breyers vanilla ice cream. Even though I had a lot less oatmeal, he finished his off way before me!

 

Despite eating my weight in cheese yesterday, I had a great workout at the gym. I think I’m on a good start to my “getting ripped” goal I ran 4 miles, then used some strength machines to work on back, triceps, deltoids, and leg extension for quads. I’ve gotten on a bit of a running kick again (I’m on again, off again since I always hurt my shins or knees, or get bored). I’m trying to take it nice and slow, plus I think the treadmill is easier on my legs than the pavement. We’ll see!

When I came home I knew I wanted a salad and to make Mama Pea’s pumpkin roasted chickpeas. They were yummy, even though I think I overcooked them. Oops.

  I followed all of her directions but I didn’t have nutmeg so I just put in a few shakes of pumpkin pie spice. Oh and I also baked them in our toaster oven.

 

I made a big salad to share some with Joe/save some for tomorrow. There was organic spinach and organic spring mix (only $1.99 a clamshell at Caputos!), organic carrots and cauliflower (Caputo’s-so cheap again), broccoli, green pepper, and Trader Joe’s grass fed white cheddar. Topped mine with chickpeas, a TJ’s pickle and Tuscan Italian dressing.

 

Then for “dessert” I had half a grapefruit with some NuNaturals Stevia sprinkled on.

Yeah, wish I wanted to eat like this everyday! Maybe I should blog more healthy and yummy meals and snacks to help me stay motivated to reach my goals, and give some ideas to other people? I don’t know, this was never really that kind of a blog…anyone’s thoughts?

“For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy.” Proverbs 2:10

xoxo

Lauren

It was my birthday on Monday and it was a great day! I got to celebrate with my friend Kim, who has the same birthday! We worked out in the morning, and met up with my mom and sister for some shopping. I found some good deals with gift cards and birthday money, had a yummy lunch out in which Joe and my brother-in-law, Sam, met up with us. Then Joe and I did some more shopping at Crate and Barrel (gift card!), headed home to clean up, then back to Mom and Dad’s for sushi!

 

(Joe and Katie do slow-mo fight scenes on occasion.)

P.S. Thank you for all the facebook birthday wishes, phone calls, texts, etc!

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On New Year’s Eve we went to our friends, Katie and Kody’s house. It was also my Dad’s birthday-Happy Birthday, Dad!!!

We had SO much fun with our friends! We all brought different appetizers, played games, danced, laughed a lot…a great night!

 

Anna, thank you for the scarf-I love it!

I love my friends! I was laughing so hard I kept coughing. There were also some Irish jigs that occurred to T.I. I believe, (and not a drop of alcohol-it may sound cliché, and it’s not like there is anything wrong with it, but I just don’t need it to have fun! I’m double fisting sparkling cider.). We headed home around 1:30 and slept in until 10:30. Ahh…

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Today I cleaned our messy house and we headed over to my parents to hang with them and Katie and Sam. My sister is a middle school science teacher and was working on some fun experiments for her kids. Sam and Joe helped:

 

I love that Sam wears the snuggie when he comes here! Doesn’t he and Mom look so Christmasy?

We’ve talked about some of our goals for the New Year. Do you guys make any goals or resolutions? I have some like spending more time reading the Bible and praying with Joe, and really work on not complaining (!). I started typing out different areas of my life (spiritual/relational, financially, health, etc) and making goals in the summer and again before the holidays. A lot of them are ongoing goals. Oh and another random one: I want to get ripped. In a totally non-gross way.

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My mom shares this with us today from what she was reading: “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:8

Happy New Year!

xoxo

Lauren

On Saturday morning Joe and I got ready to head out and spend the day with his family and celebrate Anna’s birthday. After going to the gym (Joe went to Home Depot) we headed over for an amazing lunch at his parents.

 

I had this x3 maybe?! I went back for more chicken, pasta, and alfredo sauce, couple chips and hummus, and tiny piece of bruschetta (it was toasted homemade bread, fresh mozz, with TJ’s jarred bruschetta sauce-yum!). It was all so good!! The chicken was marinated overnight and Larry grilled it perfectly out in the snow storm! I am seriously one lucky girl to have two sets of parents that cook such delicious food.

The Birthday girl:

Anna turned 19 yesterday! She is a beautiful girl on the inside and out. She is so artistic and creative, funny, and has such a heart for her friends and family. Check out her sweet nails too:

We got to spend time with this sweet girl too.

Our niece Madelyn:

 

Isn’t she so adorable?!?!

We got a massive amount of snow yesterday. We wanted to go play outside so Joe and his mom found some things for me to wear and Joe put the boots on for me (not uncommon for me to ask him to put on or take off my boots). But I wasn’t paying attention and we started off on the wrong foot (literally).

We got bundled up and headed outside for some fun.

Hey Dad, I used a snow blower!! It was fun.

 

Today we are celebrating Christmas with Joe’s fam since his sister and family were out of town on Christmas.

“Follow anything that makes you want to do right. Pursue faith and love and peace, and enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.” 2 Timothy 2:22

xoxo

Lauren