Peas and Thank You

Oh, The Stuff Love Does (Part I)

  A few months ago, I started reading a book that I should have read way more than a few months ago. Many people told me I had to read Love Does, by Bob Goff, but these people don’t know this one little thing about me: if you tell me I should do something, I’m not going to do it.  Because you can’t make me.  (Geez, what a jerk.) But once I actually sucked it up and started reading Bob, it was like my soul was a big balloon and he... Read More

I Don’t Want to Be Celebrated on Mother’s Day

  From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.  (Luke 12:48b, NIV)   It’s an odd feeling, dreading a holiday in one’s own honor, but dread-filled is exactly how I’d describe my emotions about Mother’s Day. Don’t confuse my words here–I am very excited for the gifts–but it’s not what you think.  My family can save their... Read More

A Season of Rest

You may have noticed it’s been quiet around here lately. It’s going to continue to be that way, at least a little while longer, and I’m going to try to explain why. The hardest question I faced over the last few weeks of interviews, book promotions and press was, “What’s next for you?” I’d be talking a million miles a minute, gesturing and smiling, words and answers flowing freely to question after question, and then the... Read More

Pea Sighting: Making Thin Mint Cookies on New Day NW

  Hello from Seattle! We’ve been stomping puddles all over the city, laughing at silly sea otters at the aquarium, piling toppings on pancakes at Portage Bay and dodging flying fish at Pike’s Market. But our day started with a segment on New Day Northwest, and a few Thin Mint Cookies for breakfast.  Could it get any better?  Seattle, I love you.  We may never leave.  Read More

Low Sugar, Whole Grain Blueberry Orange Muffins

I have a complicated relationship with muffins. I remember when I was in high school, a study came out by the Center for Science in the Public Interest that alerted consumers to the finding that bakery muffins were as unhealthy for you as donuts. I was stoked. This meant that when my friends and I ended up at Dunkin’ Donuts during open lunch, I shouldn’t order the bran muffin.  I should order the chocolate cream-filled powdered donut. Actually,... Read More

Pea Sighting: Making Enchiladas on AM Northwest

  Hey guys!  Hope you are having a great weekend. I’m off to Portland again today, meaning we’ve reached the halfway mark on our Pacific Northwest Book Tour.  Thanks so much for all of you who have come out and said hi.  It’s been so fun meeting you and your families and putting faces to names. Here’s a clip from Friday’s TV appearance for your delicious food-gazing pleasure.  I promptly made another batch of these enchiladas for... Read More

Lipton Tea Uplift Prize Pack Giveaway

  Hey friends! I’m on my way up to Portland today for a few days of appearances and book signings, but I didn’t want to leave you empty-handed in my absence. I know it’s hard to keep up with my coffee love/hate affair over here, so I don’t even try to explain it anymore. Okay, I will: I am currently loving coffee (yummmmm!) but sticking to decaf (heart palpitations ruin my day—boooo!). But one thing that hasn’t changed is my deep,... Read More

*Almost* No Sugar Strawberry Sundaes

Our Sugar Savings Plan is paying off. We’re being a bit stingy with our sugar consumption at home, which gives us a little more freedom away from home. Like fro yo with friends Friday. Ice cream with Dad on Saturday. A few pieces of candy the Easter Bunny delivered to Mimi’s on Sunday. (Perhaps our Lego, activity book, hair pretty and bubble-giving Easter Bunny is just a jerk?)   But now that we’re back to school, back to the daily grind... Read More

More Peas, Thank You Pacific NW Book Tour

  It’s been a week!  (Not all that different from any other, though.) I was talking to a friend on the phone Tuesday and she asked, “So, when is your new book coming out?” I laughed.  “Actually, it’s today,” I admitted. “What?!  What are you doing talking on the phone to me!” she asked apologetically. Yeah, as opposed to doing the jigsaw puzzle in my pajamas with the girls that I was doing five minutes before she called? And... Read More

Book Launch Day!

  Happy Tuesday! Today is the day that More Peas, Thank You officially hits bookstores across the U.S. Yay! Thank you all so much for supporting this site and our books.  I put all of my heart into this new book and I hope you can feel it on every single page.  And for all of you who have already received your pre-orders, I’d love to hear what you think. Speaking of hearts, mine is aching a bit. We received so many entrants in the “Cooking... Read More

Super Healthy Banana Breakfast Donuts

I’ve been thinking a lot about sugar lately. Maybe it’s because we were slammed with a sugar blizzard over the holidays. Maybe it’s because we treated ourselves with lots of treats during our recent vacations. Maybe it’s because I read this article, “Why Is Everyone Always Giving My Kids Junk Food?” and nodded my head until I got a crick in my neck and “amen”-ed my way through every word.   There’s no question, sugar is everywhere. The... Read More

Cooking with the Kiddos Giveaway!

  Spring Break is upon us. We have plans to sleep in, to not pack lunches and to do irresponsible things like stay in pajamas until noon, go to the movies in the middle of the day and stage spelling quiz shows with luxurious prizes in our living room.  (Lulu just spelled funny with an “e.”  At least she was writing about me.  And she spelled, “absolutely fabulous” perfectly.  Good girl.) But Spring Break also means I have two extra... Read More

More Peas, Thank You Cookbook Sneak Peek

  Fact: You rock. Fact: You may want the new More Peas, Thank You cookbook. (At least I hope so…) Fact: The new More Peas, Thank You cookbook doesn’t come out for a week. Fact: The new More Peas, Thank You cookbook is 272 pages long. Fact: I’m giving you 14 of those pages right here, right now, including three recipes, two never before seen! Fact: I love you. Thanks for reading. (click on the images to see full size)         Edited... Read More

MORE Appreciation for You

  We’ve been through a lot together, haven’t we? And while crazy good cookie recipes and somewhat random soul sharing might feel like I’m saying “thank you,” it’s not nearly enough for all the love, friendship, compassion and support you all have given me for as long as I’ve been taking up this space on the internet. We’ve got a new book, More Peas, Thank You coming out in less than two weeks.  And... Read More

To Live Inefficiently

Several months ago, a dear friend emailed me and asked me in an absurdly flattering, but not-at-all-rhetorical way, “How in the world do you get everything done in your life?” And in my Type A, perfectionist approach to life, I was more than happy to write her back with my plan of attack (once, of course, I made time for it in my schedule). I wrote her a good two pages all about my master calendar, my white board daily to-do list, my set non-negotiable... Read More

The Best Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever

Hello, Gorgeous. (That applies to both the cookie dough and you.) You may have noticed a lot more gluten-free recipes around here lately. Either “I’m sorry” or “you’re welcome.”   Though I don’t eat a lot of gluten naturally (I’ve never been a big bread or pasta person), I’m not intolerant of it either. But Gigi’s best friend is. Many of my close friends are.  A few kiddos at our family fellowship group are. So I approach... Read More

Today I’m…

…drinking Buzz-Free 365 Organic Decaf with frothed unsweetened almond milk.  I’m hoping I don’t regret my decision to be buzz-free today, when we’re already down an hour, and a parent. …missing Chris who is returning from a four-day business trip.  I’m hoping he’s missing me too, because if he is, that means I’m doing something right in this whole really loving someone well thing. …savoring the girls playing together like dear... Read More

Spicy Squash Nuggets with Honey Lime Dipping Sauce

I don’t know about you, but so-called “dinner” has been a pretty anti-climactic event as of late. The excited, anticipation-filled daily inquiry of “What’s for dinner, Mom!” has turned into a puzzled, hesitant “What’s…for dinner?  Mom?”   I could tell you that it’s because I’ve been busying helping Lulu count out 100 buttons to stick in a baggie to take for her “collection” on the 100th day of school today.  And... Read More

*FREE* Exclusive E-book with Pre-order of More Peas, Thank You

  Do you remember the Sunday before last? Me neither.  It’s a safe bet church, pancakes, a Costco run and a House Hunters marathon were involved.  Thrill-a-minute round here, folks. But I definitely remember that I said I had a surprise for all you who have pre-ordered More Peas, Thank You.  (And for those who haven’t pre-ordered yet, it’s not too late to get in on it.) Surprise!   I have long resisted the e-book.  Until I used... Read More

Postcard from the Peas: Disneyland

  We are home from our whirlwind vacation to Disneyland. I am so happy and so exhausted. But I’m also excited to share a few iPhone photos from our trip and a few observations.  Lower your safety harnesses and hold onto your hats and glasses! (Disclaimer: no expectant mothers, individuals with heart conditions or children under 42 inches should read this post.)   Facts: Four days of walking overtakes age appropriateness when it... Read More

Park Bars

  We definitely like to get our snack on around here.   Second breakfast. After-school. Before bed. Snack. Snack. Snickety snack.   The only thing I hear more than “Mom!  Can I have a snack?” is “Mom!  Can I have a puppy?” (No.)   Actually, it’s a tie between “Can I have a puppy?” and “We…are never, ever, ever….getting back together.” “Like……ever.” Thanks, Taylor.   But these bars... Read More

More Peas, Thank You Update

  Well, hi there. Hope you all had a great weekend!  I wanted to pop in today and give you a little rundown on what’s going on with the new book. First off, here she is!   I got my first copy, hot off the presses last week, and I am thrilled with it!  I hope you will be too.   More Peas, Thank You is similar to our first book, but even more focused on the delicious food!  The stories are shorter, the photos pop off the page and... Read More

Chickpea Crockpot Pie with Biscuit Topping

  I’m done glorifying busy. I don’t need busy as an excuse anymore for why my youngest child wore her Halloween costume to school today (minus the mask, of course) why the beds look like they were made by a seven-year-old (they were) why (Ihatetosayitbuthavetoadmititandtotallyregretit) I frequently used to (andsometimesstillcan) be a big fat jerk to my husband.   Busy does not mean bad (nor does it excuse it). In fact, busy... Read More

The H2O Club: Giving Water, Giving Life (SUPER DUPER GIVEAWAY!)

  I’ve got to tell you, I’m really nervous to write this post. I am just praying and hoping this story will mean something to you all like it does to me.  Like it does to my kids.  Like it does to the children you are about to meet. Here goes nothing.   This is Jeremiah. Jeremiah goes to school with my girls. Jeremiah is a light so bright I need sunglasses to look at him.  Go ahead, adjust your monitors. Every Tuesday and Thursday... Read More

Thin Mint Brownies

  I mourn the fact that a large portion of my brain is occupied by lines from commercials from the 80s and 90s.   If you ask what’s for breakfast, I’m likely to sing the very true fact that “When pizza’s on a bagel, you can have pizza anytime!” Preach it.   If we pass someone smoking, I’ll obnoxiously quote the Pepsi movie trailer featuring that adorable curly-haired girl in her Western getup saying, “And NO….SMOKING!” Seriously.   If... Read More

Chocolate Hazelnut Heart Tarts

I’m feeling all lovey dovey. We have no over-the-top romantic Valentine’s Day plans. Only papercut fingers and adhesive gummed-up tongues from folding and sealing fifty-nine valentines for little grade school-sized hearts in search of one thing. Candy.   Man, how I love those grade school-sized hearts. They’re what make my own heart beat.   Not to mention that great big thirty-six year old-sized heart I’m quite familiar with... Read More

What I’m Reading Right Now (or Not)

  I am a multi-tasker in all things.  Even reading. You may be the type of person who starts a book and will not even glance at another book’s jacket until you’ve finished the very last page of the book you are reading.  Bless you, all loyal and committed and dedicated. Not me. I like to have multiple books going at once, and when I set aside an hour to read, I like to chip away at a chapter of each at a time.  Just to keep things interesting. So... Read More

Chili Fries Pie

There’s nothing more romantic than chili. Because you have to really love someone to eat saucy, spicy beans together. Fiberific.   But you know what’s even flirtier than chili?  Chili fries.   Because you really have to love someone to double dip fries into saucy, spicy beans together. Extra fiberific. And probably not hygienic.   When I think of chili fries, I always picture scooching into a red pleather booth after a... Read More

Gus on the Go (GIVEAWAY)

Having both the girls in school this year proved harder than I thought.  Lonely mornings.  HUGE class sizes.  A kindergartner who is smarter than me.  I battled my concerns on the first two issues by spending a good chunk of my week at the school and it has been an absolute joy.  And the latter?  I decided to live la vida loca—and teach the girls Spanish. Teaching the girls a foreign language was the perfect way to combat boredom and keep... Read More

Quinoa Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Quinoa)

  I think I owe quinoa an apology.   I’ve been pretty hot or cold when it comes to quinoa. (Sadly, that pun is intended–you know I’m not above food humor.  That isn’t remotely humorous.) I can’t even explain why I don’t eat it more often.  Some of my favorite recipes on our recipe page involve quinoa–recipes like Garden Enchilada Bake, Pizza Quinoa Casserole, Zucchini Quinoa Lasagna, and Thai... Read More

40 Veg-Friendly Recipes for Your Superbowl

  Are you ready for some football? I’m going to claim a permanent “no” on that one. But I’m ready for some creative commercials. A whole heap of Beyoncé. (I am so pleased to know that “Beyoncé” is in spell check with a little accent over the ‘e’.  She’s earned that, don’t you think?) And bring. on. the. eats. If you don’t know what you’re making yet, I’ve updated our list of veg-friendly favorites for your Superbowl... Read More

Totally Oatmeal Scotchies

  {cue Cookie Monster voice}   Me love oatmeal. Me love giant cookie. (yeah, that test batch was a little rough)     Me love encouragement from kindergartner. Me love second chances.   That lunchbox worthy.   Me love chewy, lacy, crispy-edged butterscotch oatmeal cookies.   Me really do.   And ****scene****. {me throat hurt now} Totally Oatmeal Scotchies Makes 18 monster cookies Print this recipe! ****View... Read More

More Things I’m Crazy About Right Now

  1. Other People’s Recipes:  I love to cook good recipes, even if they aren’t mine.  My mouth and my family, were super happy this weekend thanks to Jessica’s Better Than Crack Brownies and Matt’s (Kath’s husband) Whole Wheat Pizza Crust. To Matt’s crust, I added red sauce, sundried tomatoes, broccoli, caramelized onions, artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, fresh mozzarella and herbed feta.   To Jessica’s brownies, I added... Read More

Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Orange Vinaigrette

Don’t say it. You don’t hate Brussels sprouts.  You just think you do.   You hate the mushy. You hate the bitterness. You hate the stinky.   These aren’t mushy. These aren’t bitter. These aren’t stinky.  <—LIE (Sorry.)   But you like oranges.   And man, caramelized honey is tasty.   Even if you want to write off Brussels sprouts for the rest of your beautifully-scented life, don’t let that stop... Read More

Lessons in Soup

I’ve been a little restless lately. I’m too old to try to be figuring out what my purpose is (I have flashbacks to a younger me, with huge hair and too bright lipstick, sitting in my college advisor’s office, insisting a little too emphatically that I did not want to go to law school.  Hmmmm.).  I’m too young (and too awake in Spirit) to just hang it up and say, “Well, that was a good life. Well done.” Even with all of our hurdles lately—for... Read More

Chocolate Chip Hugged Cupcakes

I’m not sorry.   Some occasions call for kale. And bulgur. And sea vegetables.  (Okay, I can’t think of that occasion, but I am sure one exists.  For someone who is not me.)   Then, some occasions call for chocolate.   Studded with chocolate.   Dipped in chocolate.   (Some occasions call for a manicure.  Priorities, friends.)   Some occasions call for a strenuous workout.   And some just call for a... Read More

For the Win

  For Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. 2 Corinthians 12:10   Apparently, when we were dealing with the stomach flu last week, God was just lobbing softballs over the plate. And I was getting cocky. “I got this!” I yelled, as I loaded up my swing and got in my batter’s stance.  Feeling a little too “in the zone” in this great game of finding gratitude... Read More

Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

  I think the girls are feeling better.   There is actually more Kleenex in the box than in a soggy force field around the couch.  (Our girls are allergic to garbage cans, apparently.  And I’ve never been so grateful for our “mechanical claw” toy.) Instead of using ginger ale to settle their stomachs, they are using it to gargle while singing their ABCs. (Making up for lost school time, perhaps? Work in those state capitals... Read More

Tending the Buds

The stomach flu claimed another victim in our house last night. When I was in the throes of agony earlier this week, I prayed that Chris and the girls wouldn’t get it.  I couldn’t bear the thought of them feeling so miserable.  The fever.  The dehydration.  The sweats.  The pain. And yet it happened.  One by one.  And it was worse than I even imagined. Yet, somehow, I feel grateful. Grateful that I could be the one to place a cool rag... Read More

NuNaturals Stevia Giveaway

  How’s your Friday, all? We were late for jump rope club, got jelly on our thankfully floral-printed tunic, and had to guzzle our tea, brush our teeth and style our hair in eight minutes flat to not be late to kindergarten. Phew.  Hope your day wasn’t as crazy.  Or that your jelly blended into your shirt beautifully. Can I try to make your day a bit sweeter? Remember all those giveaways I was going to run while we were on vacation? Well,... Read More

8 Things I’m Crazy About Right Now–Maui Edition

  1. Top Chef Seattle: We’ve been watching this season’s episodes as religiously as always, but with a little special attention being paid since they are cooking just hours away in our sister city here in the Pacific Northwest. We took even more interest when we realized that one of the competing chefs, Sheldon Simeon, is the head chef at a highly-acclaimed restaurant on Maui. We even let the girls watch a few epsiodes and now they are Top... Read More

Ginger Berry Green Lemonade

This isn’t a “diet” drink. This is a “I just spent nine days on holiday after the holidays” drink.   This is a “six hours on a plane and they pumped shortbread cookies and pineapple orange guava juice in me like they were life-saving antidotes” drink.   This is a “the island I was on ran out of lettuce (!) and broccoli was $6.99 a pound” drink. And a “remember the time we ate 8 pies in 36 hours?” drink. (I’d say... Read More

She Reads Truth News and Giveaway

I don’t believe in coincidences. In January of last year, atop a volcano crater in Maui, I had an awakening. My heart was set on fire. I felt so very small, but filled with Something so big. I returned to the mainland with a new purpose–to renew my faith, to live with intention, to be more present, and to know His presence more. I had no plan. But I had prayer. I had a church family and friends. I had the Word and my hit-or-miss, shotgun... Read More

Rudi’s Organic Yoga Prize Pack Giveaway

We still have a few days of our Hawaiian vacation left, but I couldn’t wait to run this giveaway. Plus, it’s raining. I missed you. And if I huddle on the lanai with my tablet and some tin foil hand-crafted into an Easter bonnet, I can pick up the faintest wifi signal known to humankind. So let’s give you some cool prizes while we can! Rudi’s Organic wants to get your new year off on the right foot with a prize package that... Read More

Aloha

Aloha from Hawaii! I am taking a much appreciated, sun-filled vacation to the Islands with my three favorite people in the world until after the New Year. You may know that aloha means both hello and goodbye, and in this case it truly fits. Because thanks to some sketchy wifi, I won’t be able to share the giveaways and trip highlights I’d planned. Instead, I’ll be soaking up the time here with my family away from the computer and... Read More

When Love Comes Down

  It’s the last few hours before Christmas. I’m not wrapping. I’m not baking. I’m not fussing over the last few details. I’m not trying to set the most ideal scene or find the perfect gift.   The last few hours before Christmas, I’ll be spending right here.   The details don’t matter. The most ideal scene is the one that is filled with the faces I love. The perfect Gift is already on His way.   So let the noise of... Read More

Pizza Pockets

I’m in love. With Christmas Break, that is. No lunches to pack. No homework to (grab a calculator and) check. No ballet, no carpooling, no swimming. No formal bedtimes (unless you count “when Home Alone is over”).   Lots of kitchen helpers. Lots of Christmas crafts. Lots of dancing and singing and laughing and sneaking stale candy off of the gingerbread house when no one is looking. Lots of parties.   We have an impromptu gathering... Read More

Gnosis Chocolate Giveaway

My heart still hurts from Friday’s tragedy, as I’m sure yours does too.  It just doesn’t feel natural for me to post like nothing happened.  Because I haven’t stopped thinking about it.  And frankly, I just don’t want to. I want that constant ache. Every time that I instinctually want to snap at my child for fighting with her sister or drinking the bath water or forgetting her lunchbox. Every time I’m working with a “difficult”... Read More

Holding Onto The Promise

It’s been a rough few days.   Of course, national tragedies are always difficult to deal with, but they’ve all seemed so far away. But what happened on Friday while somewhat ironically I met with my Moms in Prayer group—a group of friends from my girls’ grade school dedicated to covering our children, our teachers and our staff in His protection—the tragedy that was unfolding while we gathered, it has rocked me to my core. Because... Read More

Christmas Candy and Cookie List

  I have lots of people I love and want to make feel special this year.  If you haven’t noticed, cooking is my love language.  The plan was to make chocolate-dipped pretzel rods, grab a few Starbucks gift cards, write a heartfelt note and call it good. There are no pretzel rods. Seriously. Within about a 60 mile perimeter of my house there are NO PRETZEL RODS. So I’ve got to dip back into my bag of tricks.  And should there be a pretzel... Read More

Eggnog Scones

I’m already thinking about Christmas morning. I wish I was more of a go-with-the-flow mom a lot of the time.  The one that leisurely makes her way downstairs in a pink feathered robe (do they sell such things?) and ruffles her child’s head as they each independently and politely pull things from their stockings, one item at a time. I wish. Unfortunately, I am the mom who’s up at the crack of dawn on Christmas morning, complete with... Read More

Follow The Star

  Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21   I am a planner. A color-coded-calendar, checklist-on-the-white-board, multiple-alarms-set-for-ungodly-hours, scheduled-it-two-weeks-ago-and-set-a-reminder planner. It goes without saying that the next few weeks leading up to Christmas are meticulously planned so things go off without a hitch. Tonight, our plans got hitched. Tonight,... Read More

Falafel Stuffed Pitas with Tahini Sauce

Question:  What do you get when you change the serving size of Peppermint Crunch Holiday Drizzle Kettle Corn from six servings to one serving per bag?   Question:  What do you get when you make the mistake of buying more than one package of Sea Salt and Black Pepper Dark Chocolate?  Every time you go to the store.   Question:  What do you get when all the gingerbread is gone but there is a full Tupperware of extra cream cheese frosting... Read More

Peas and Thank You Prize Pack Giveaway

I do love Christmas. I don’t love Christmas shopping. Maybe you don’t love Christmas shopping either. Maybe I can cross someone off your Christmas list for you.   My publisher is getting things ready to go for More Peas, Thank You (to be published in late March), and discovered five PEAS AND THANK YOU PRIZE PACKS in their midst.  Each prize pack contains: One 11 ounce ceramic mug w/ sealable lid, An apron, A reusable shopping bag and A... Read More

Advent: Days One and Two

I can’t think of words that are beautiful enough. Words that are thankful enough. Words that, on their tippiest of toes and with outstretched arms, even start to touch a single branch of the joy I feel in this Advent season. Days One and Two were a precious beginning to preparing our hearts for the celebration of our Savior’s birth:   Our church’s Advent Night, complete with Gigi’s reading of the meaning of the Christ candle in the Advent... Read More

Candy Cane Crinkle Cookies

I know, another cookie recipe. It’s not my fault. It’s Joe’s.   I want to quit you, Joe. I make up my mind that we’re going to take it easy on the treats this year. We’ll enjoy sweets in moderation. We’ll eat lots of broccoli.  All of us. (Yes, that means you, Lulu.  I know you’re reading this over my shoulder.  Quit telling me that every sentence needs a subject and a verb.  And not to start a subject with a preposition.... Read More

Hello Dolly Bars

Well, Hellooooo Dolly. I would personally like to kiss whoever came up with the idea of bar cookies. Especially these bar cookies.   Because, you see, no one notices if you cut an extra little sliver from the pan for the chef. And I always do.   I would also like to give a shout out to my poor knife skills.  Represent! Okay, probably not for the mishap chopping apples for pancakes this morning (nothing a little Super Glue and a Hello... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: Alley Cats

  I’m a big fan of new traditions. Oh, we had the traditional Thanksgiving dinner.  In fact, we’re having it for the third time tonight.  Can I pack stuffing and mashed potatoes in a lunchbox?  Watch me. But I think my favorite new Thanksgiving tradition is going to be where we spend our Black Friday.  You can keep your crowded malls and packed stores.  I get itchy just thinking about them. No, from now on, come the day after Thanksgiving... Read More

The First Thanksgiving

  This year, I feel blessed to have discovered the Lord’s secret weapon to finding the joy in our lives.  Simply said, giving praise and thanks is life-changing. I hope that today is great practice for making giving thanks a part of your daily routine—the best habit you can have.  Let’s live Thanksgiving out loud.  Today and everyday. Happy Thanksgiving, friends.   Originally ran November 23, 2011   Translation: “The First... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: Sweet Gifts

  It’s been nearly three weeks.   Three weeks since that beautiful night that we traipsed around at dusk, pretending to be superheroes, cheerleaders, cowboys and Egyptian queens.  Giggling and running down the street, plastic jack o’ lanterns, Target bags and Yoda robes flapping in the wind as we raced to be the one to press the next doorbell.  To hold out our hands for all the sweet gifts we could carry. It’s been nearly three... Read More

Our Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes

  Wow. How is Thanksgiving only one week away?!  Didn’t I just devote a week’s worth of posts commiserating over the end of summer? For our holiday, we’ve got ourselves an invite to my aunt’s house, and I’m pegged to bring the cranberry sauce.  That’s it.  Nothing more, nothing less. I dig it. And with the week off of school for the girls, we’ve got a full calendar of sleepovers, library dates and bumper bowling all lined... Read More

Snickerdoodle Blondies

  It was a rough Monday. I can’t describe the anguish of watching your child struggle with fear and pain. There were tears, clutching of dolls, frantic searches mid-procedure for YouTube My Little Pony videos and gauze. Lots and lots of gauze. Followed by cuddles, ice cream and repeat viewings of Gigi’s favorite movies.   I realize that in the grand scheme of things, a little dental extraction isn’t a major life trauma. It’s almost... Read More

Sunday Snapshot: A Letter From the Tooth Fairy

We’ve got the day off of school tomorrow. And thanks to her father’s jaw line, Gigi’s got her first round of dental extractions in the morning. We’ve got popsicles. We’ve got new dryer sheets and blankets at the ready. We’ve seemingly got every computer-animated movie produced in the last five years.  (I might have to hide Madagascar 3.  There’s only so much “Circus Afro” a girl can take.) Luckily, Gigi also has something even... Read More

9 Things I’m Crazy About Right Now

1.  This bread.  It’s delicious nostalgia.  Once upon a time, I ate a cinnamon raisin bagel, spread thick with cream cheese for breakfast. Every day. For nine months.  Thanks, Gigi.  This is almost as good, and in many ways better because I am not scarfing it down only to hurl in the ladies room before taking the deposition of a “lying, no good, dirty rotten, cheating” husband.  Again, I say, “Thanks, Gigi.”  And this morning I really... Read More

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This soup is THE ANSWER.   While we eat dinner as a family every night, not everyone is always head-over-heels in love with what I’m serving.   There have been nights, for instance, when a few of us are darting to the cereal cupboard for a post-dinner bowl of Cheerios. But not tonight.   I could chalk the enthusiasm for this bowl up to the colorful bowls of toppings I place on the lazy Susan for each member of our family to... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: Warm, Heavenly Blankets

  I don’t know what made me think of it. Maybe it was Lulu shivering from the bath, her stringy wet hair soaking into the shirt of her fuzzy pink hippo pajamas. Maybe it was Gigi in her long underwear from last winter, her having grown so big that the ankles of the snug bottoms were hitting her mid-calf. Maybe it was the memory of bringing them both into this world. Holding them close. Loving them recklessly from their damp heads to their tiny,... Read More

The Balloons

  It was recently my grandma’s 80th birthday. The girls helped my mom put together a very fun, very laidback party.  There were streamers, takeout Chinese food, cake and of course, balloons.   The girls asked if they could bring the balloons home afterward.  All of them. I couldn’t think of a good reason to say no. And so we hauled fifteen balloons home in the backseat of our car, obstructing Daddy’s rearview mirror as we drove... Read More

Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai

You guys are so smart. Me?  Not so much. After I nearly lost a thumb the last time I made spaghetti squash, hackin’ away at it like a crazy machete wielding banshee, you all said, “Lady, just bake it whole.”   Uh, yeah. So that was a lot easier. And then just last week, my friend Dorian nudged me via Twitter, saying, “I feel like Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai would be amazing.” I just so happened to have a spaghetti squash on my counter. So... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: Worth It

Halloween was never my favorite. There were a lot of things not to like. Wet, muddy clothes from the Pumpkin Patch. Wet, slimy pumpkin guts on little hands and clean kitchen surfaces. Wet, freezing, shivering me from trick-or-treating. Candy negotiations. Wrapper hiding. (Guilty as charged.) Even this year, so much of it is kind of yucky.   But somehow, I’m enjoying so much. The post pumpkin picking muddy puddle stomping. The post pumpkin... Read More

Naptime Diaries Prints Giveaway

  It’s strange sometimes, the things we remember. My grandma had a little print that hung in her bathroom for as long as I can recall.  In fact, it probably is still there now.  It wasn’t anything particularly eye-catching, but I distinctly rememeber reading and rereading the framed words, “We aim to please,” followed by the specific and slightly inappropriate request, “You aim too, please?” It took me a long time to figure out... Read More

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Nutmeg Cream Cheese Frosting

Boo! The countdown to Halloween is on around here. Lulu has tracked down all of the parts of her WordGirl costume, including her massive vocabulary.  As she walked into the kitchen with a broken crayon yesterday, she remarked pitifully, “Mama, I’m crestfallen.”  You are also five and I don’t know what that means.  Fetch Mommy the dictionary.   Gigi, per the usual, has managed to find complete joy in the most basic... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: Fearless

  We are no strangers to dentists around these parts. Between beach-towel-over-the-head run-ins with fences, teeth-first collisions with little boys’ heads in P.E. and husbands for whom a simple sandwich bite is more difficult than the New York Times’ crossword puzzle, we’ve spent a good chunk of 2012 in the chair.  And 2013 is shaping up to look like more of the same.  Go ahead and splurge on that new car, Dr. Marc.  We’ve got you... Read More

5 Books That Wrecked Me This Year

  I’m putting the pieces of our household back together after last weekend’s conference, and it’s been a little slow going.  As a family, we had four suitcases packed.  As a family, we now have four suitcases in various stages of unpackedness.  I’m getting to it.  And yes, my pants are on fire. Turns out, I don’t have all the answers.  In fact, I kind of only have one Answer.  But it’s a big one.  And there are at least five... Read More

Indian-Spiced Roasted Winter Squash Soup

I’ve been waiting for this week all summer. You see, this was the last week of our CSA box. I thought this day would never come. I love the concept of community supported agriculture.  I love eating local.  I love eating what’s in season.  I love that Farmer Bill drove to my house each Wednesday and we chatted about the weather. But seriously: Too. Much. Produce. It makes me feel seriously icky how much food I couldn’t use.  Such... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: Moments of Influence

If ever a day of rest was needed, it’s today. Like our weekend, I’m full of moments. Joyful moments spent reuniting with dear friends (like Jenna and Polly), filled with priceless and effortless conversations that could only be better if they happened more frequently.  Joyful moments with inspiring women (like Jessie, Rachael, Kacia, Cassie, Ashley and so many more) who figuratively and literally hug you like they’ve known you your whole life. ... Read More

To Influence

  We’re leaving today for Indianapolis and The Influence Conference. I am anxious. I realized last night, while talking to Gigi about the unfortunate fact she will likely again be a soldier in The Nutcracker again this year, that I’ve been using the word “anxious” all wrong. She is anxious to find out her part, anxious that she will again have to wear black pants, don a beret and carry a wooden gun for the third year in a row if she wants... Read More

Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches

I don’t know what the weather is like where you are, but it’s downright confusing here. It was 80 yesterday. 80 degrees. In Oregon. On October 7th. (And somewhere right now Al Gore is shaking his head and saying, “I told you so.”  And, “I really should stop reading silly blogs and do something with my life.”  Seriously, Al.) What this means for me, though, is total confusion. What to wear:  I’m currently sporting a flannel and flip-flops. ... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: Every Day

It’s not every day you find a little person at your bedside, asking in a kind and quiet voice if they can please crawl in and snuggle. It’s not every day a tiny head shares your pillow and smiles at your sleepy face, close enough to smell baby shampoo and see last night’s toothpaste crusted up in the corners of their mouth. It’s not every day you crawl from the sheets and see the orange, fiery sun just breaking into a crystal blue sky. It’s... Read More

10 MORE Things I’m Crazy About Right Now

  After last week’s post featuring things I’m diggin’, I received several requests for a few more things I’m crazy about right now.  There is no shortage of things I love, so you are in luck. (Or you totally don’t care.  One of the two).   1. Early morning Group Power (aka Body Pump) classes—I have always wanted to do the group weight lifting classes at our gym but have been too intimidated to try.  A friend invited me... Read More

Border Bean Burritos with Mild Sauce

I’ve been hitting the sauce hard. I originally posted this recipe for a knockoff Taco Bell mild sauce over a year ago, but somehow it never made it over to my Recipage. That is tragic. Because this is awesomesauce. (Yes, that’s one word.)   And while you could just eat the sauce straight from the fridge with a spoon in between a conference call and going triangle hunting with a kindergartner, you get a real appreciation for the true authenticity... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: Make Room for Joy

That was one busy weekend. I thought I had my favorite moment of the weekend pegged. We had a wedding to attend yesterday as a family.  One daughter was watching intently to make sure she knew exactly when to turn away to avoid witnessing lip-to-lip contact.  One daughter was wiggly, thirsty, bored and did I mention wiggly?  She tuned in to the pastor, however, when he said, “In marriage, one plus one equals one.” To which Wiggly Pete piped... Read More

Pumpkin Streusel Swirl Loaf

Ahhh…Friday. Have you got your weekend all planned out?  Every last detail?  Every last minute filled with people and plans? Believe me, I know.   Soccer games, birthday parties, packing away summer clothes, meal planning, tailgating, football watching, laundry folding, grocery shopping, homework, Sunday School, Sunday supper, lunch packing, bedtime stories. Phew. But will you let me add one more to-do to your list?   Take a moment. A... Read More

8 Things I’m Crazy About Right Now

1.  Pumpkin:  You knew it was coming.  In the last two days, I’ve had a homemade pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin pie oat bran, a pumpkin pie smoothie, and a new recipe that’s coming later this week.  Get ready.  Buy pumpkin.   2. Mumford & Sons:  I’m totally late to the game on this one (I’m so hip for 2010), but man, they are good!  I can’t stop listening to their new album and this song.  I meant to email my husband to... Read More

Slow-Cooker Taco Soup

Remember when I hated slow-cookers?  Stupid, stupid me. Truth is, I really was just a frazzled mom to two teeny, tiny girls and I needed to get out of the house more.  Oh man, did I ever.  I saw very little of 2007. And if I had gotten out, I would have been less frazzled, but I also would have appreciated my slow-cooker more. Because when you are at home 24 hours of the day, juggling breast feeding, potty-training and dirty diapers, the last... Read More

The Day We Died

  The day we died, was the day I surrendered.   It was the day I publicly committed my service, my life, my forever to You.   The day we died, was the day You gave me new life.   You picked me up, cradled me, and breathed Your Spirit deep into me.   You rescued me.   The day we died, I promised to always share You with my children. Wrapping them in Your Word and prayers as their faith becomes their own.   We will... Read More

No Sugar Cookies

  I thought I knew the secret to getting even just a single, solitary cookie out of a batch in this house.   It’s not coconut. Though it was a powerful ally for many, many months, some time this summer, between the coconut cream donuts I baked and a scoop of Ben and Jerry’s Coconut Seven Layer Bar ice cream (oh yes, such a thing exists), the girls decided coconut was no longer a foe.  And my arsenal of kid repellant shrunk. I returned... Read More

A Few Updates

  I totally stink at updates.  My phone constantly has outdated apps and let’s not even touch my wardrobe.  Seriously, don’t touch it.  It might disintegrate. We just have so much going on in our lives right now.  I’m not complaining, there are many blessings in the busyness!  For the most part, though, I just try to focus on one tree at a time so I don’t get overwhelmed by the forest. But even though I might feel on top of things,... Read More

Big Fat Greek Veggie Burgers

Things are about to get messy. Kind of like the four year-old boy seated to my left at Sunday School yesterday, with his index finger firmly planted in his right nostril. And then to complicate things, my having to lead him and nine other four year-olds in and out of the “human knot” in an exercise all about listening to the voice of authority. Guess whose hand I got to hold? Every. Single. Step. Of the. Way.   You may think it’s funny. But... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: The Great Rescue

  A Great Rescue is underway. Yesterday, we helped out with the car wash to raise money for Heath’s adoption. Now that all the tallies are coming in from “Heath Day” (including our car wash’s $849.00!), we’re discovering he is getting so very close to having his adoption be fully funded. It is, in a word, miraculous.   The miracle isn’t just in the number of complete strangers that came by and left generous donations yesterday,... Read More

Our Fall Bucket List and Why I Need It

Oh, my heart. They can’t make enough Kleenex. Just when I think the tears have stopped about my babies growing up, my mind wanders to the children’s book Someday up on Gigi’s bedroom shelf and I well up again.  I fixate specifically on the words on the page, “One day you’ll feel a little weight on your strong back,” and it hurts to realize that maybe I won’t.  Nobody needs me to carry them anymore. But now that our first week of school... Read More

Chocolate Chip Apple Cake

This cake is pretty. This week has not been. Lulu started kindergarten Tuesday.  Or as I like to call it, “Black Tuesday.”  Or “The Day The Man Landscaping Our Neighbor’s Yard Almost Called 9-1-1 Because He Thought I Was Having a Seizure.” I was not okay. Am not still. Give me a sec.   It’s amazing the truly stupid things you will do when you are on the verge of an emotional breakdown. Things like create a wonderfully delicious... Read More

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Let’s hug. Let’s put our arms around each other and just wear us.   Like a soft, heavy-knit sweater, keeping out the biting fall air. Like a furry pair of pink slipper socks, wrapped around chilly toes, that help us “ice skate” across the kitchen floor.   Like a warm, lavender breeze-scented towel we grab fresh out of the dryer, as we dart down the hallway, dripping and cold from the shower, praying that now is not the moment... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: God Sightings

I live for God sightings. I’m not talking about seeing the face of God on a tortilla or a grilled cheese sandwich, though I’m not doubting that would be awesome (and delicious). I’m talking about moments when you know, without question, that God is showing Himself to you to give you a message, some direction or reassurance. He can use the words of others, He can use seemingly miniscule events or He can just hit you over the head. Literally.   They... Read More

On Friendship and French Fries

  Can I gush to you about my friend Kim for a minute? Because I’m going to. And if you stick with me for a few mushy moments, there will be some prizes. But believe me, I am the real winner here. Friendship, like love, can be found in the most unexpected places. Like the basement of a synagogue-turned-ballet studio two years ago. I was the frazzled mom, running in late with my two girls, while she was the composed, yet also slightly late mom... Read More

Flourless Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting (+ White Jacket Required Giveaway!)

  Lulu, my baby (she’s stiil a baby, I tell ya!) is turning five today. And Gigi, part of my heart (a big part, I tell ya!) is starting second grade.  Just stop it! I need a Kleenex and a distraction.   Well, that’s a good start. Long before I started this website, I read a food blog by a girl named Jenna. Do you know Jenna?  You really, really should. If you read her blog, you get amazing photography and scrumptious, scrumptious... Read More

Healthy Monkey Bread

Prior to 9 a.m. this morning, my children and even my husband had never, ever had monkey bread. That is so tragic. What kind of mother could possibly withhold this amazing creation of soft, buttery, sugary dough from her family? (sheepishly raises hand)   Admittedly, each bite is heaven.  As if someone went to the trouble of unraveling 40 cinnamon rolls and then saved you each and every belly button. I love that someone.   Because next,... Read More

Snapshot Sunday: Success

  “Our greatest fear should not be of failure, but of succeeding at things in life that don’t really matter.” - Francis Chan   May your weekend be full of failure in all the things that don’t matter at all,   and full of success in all the things that truly do.     ************* Snapshot Sundays are my attempt to recapture Sundays as a day of rest.  Feel free to participate (read more here)…or just rest.  Read More

40 Vegetarian Lunchbox Ideas (+ GIVEAWAY)

  It’s officially Labor Day weekend. Summer is officially over. School is officially starting. I am officially bummed.  So with a tear and a sigh, today I dug out Gigi’s lunchbox and started facing reality.  And making a grocery list. So begins nine months of trying to find foods to pack that will keep my kiddo happily, yet nutritiously fueled for her school day.  Foods that will actually make it to her belly instead of the cafeteria trash... Read More

Morning Glory Muffins

I never used to be a morning person.  On a “good” day in college and law school, “good” meaning I wouldn’t have morning classes, I’d draw the curtains tight, turn on a fan to block out the noises of the rest of the world, and sleep until noon.  On more ambitious days, I’d wake at 10, just in time to eat a bowl of cereal in my pajamas in front of the Price is Right.  (Always bid $1 in Contestants’ Row.  Just out of rebellion.) What... Read More

Tastier Eggplant Burgers

Sorry, eggplant.  But you ugly. I’ve been gifting prettier CSA produce to the neighbors, friends, and the somewhat sketchy cleaning supply salespeople who come to my door.  “I’m all set on window cleaner, but how would you like some tomatoes and cucumbers?” But as for you, eggplant?   I couldn’t give you away.  Nor could I give away a giant head of cabbage that was even larger than my head.  And I have a large head.  It’s like... Read More