Welcome back! It’s truly incredible how quickly time races by; can you believe it’s already April? The days seem to blur into weeks, and before we know it, another month has unfolded. It’s a thought that makes my head spin a little, especially realizing that summer break for the kids is just around the corner – less than seven weeks away, to be precise. Time, as they say, waits for no one, and here we are, caught in its beautiful, relentless march.
Today, I wanted to share a collection of current obsessions, delightful discoveries, and some heartfelt reflections on life as it unfolds. Think of it as a friendly chat over coffee, where I catch you up on what’s been bringing a smile to my face and occupying my thoughts. I also owe you a microblading update, but this post blossomed into a lengthy read rather quickly, so I’ll save that exciting reveal for our next get-together! For now, let’s dive into the good stuff.
My Current List of Favorite Things
A little while ago, I casually dropped some of my favorite recent finds on Instagram. But for those of you wisely (and perhaps thankfully) not immersed in the ‘gram, I didn’t want you to miss out on these gems. So, here’s a detailed rundown of those beloved items, plus a few extra treasures I’ve discovered since! And just to be clear, none of these mentions are sponsored; they’re genuinely products and experiences I’ve been absolutely loving and felt compelled to share.
- Yasso Frozen Yogurt Bars. Oh my goodness, where do I even begin with these? They are simply divine! My wonderful friend, Deb, introduced me to these last week, dropping off a box. I tried two immediately, and within seconds, I was utterly hooked. The very next day, I embarked on a mission, driving all over town to track them down. A huge shoutout to Albertsons for stocking them, and a big thank you to many of you who messaged me to let me know they’re also available at Target and Walmart. I proceeded to buy every single flavor I could get my hands on. Each one is incredibly delicious, but if I had to pick a favorite (and it’s a tough choice!), the sea salt caramel chocolate crunch would take the crown. They’re a perfect guilt-free treat, offering rich flavor without feeling heavy.
- Indoor S’mores Maker. For Valentine’s Day this year, I gifted the kids this fantastic little s’mores maker, and it has been an absolute sensation! The concept behind it is incredibly simple: it provides a safe, contained heat source to perfectly toast marshmallows right at your kitchen table. We’ve had so much fun with it, transforming ordinary evenings into mini camping adventures. While some might argue that you don’t *really* need another small appliance just to make s’mores, I’d respectfully have to agree to disagree on this one. The convenience, the indoor fun, and the sheer joy it brings make it a worthy addition to any family household, especially when outdoor fire pits aren’t an option. It’s truly about creating those cherished, simple memories.
- My New Favorite Jeans. Now, I’m certainly not a fashion blogger, nor do I aspire to be one, but I have fallen head over heels for these jeans, and I felt it was my duty to share this discovery with you. This is quite a significant statement coming from someone who typically avoids “hard pants” at all costs, preferring the supreme comfort of joggers for life. These jeans strike the perfect balance: they’re incredibly flattering without being restrictive, and they offer a level of comfort that makes you forget you’re not in sweatpants. More importantly, they avoid that awkward feeling of a 40-something mom trying to squeeze into a teenager’s wardrobe. I initially purchased them from one of my beloved online clothing boutiques, Piper and Scoot, where they’re a consistent top-seller and often have limited sizes. Good news, though! A quick Google search revealed the exact same pair available elsewhere. A little tip on sizing: they run a bit large, so I recommend sizing down one waist size (I typically wear a 27-28-ish and comfortably fit into a size 26). And yes, for those wondering, that *is* a carpenter loop, which inevitably sparks the question of why I didn’t hold onto the pair I owned in high school. Oh, the fashion regrets of youth! Anyway, I highly recommend them.
- Queen Bee Chocolates. Allow me to introduce you to an extraordinary, family-owned company nestled in Wyoming, just a few hours’ drive from where my parents reside in Montana. My dad, bless his heart, makes the dedicated journey to this quaint small town solely for these absolutely sensational chocolates. And without fail, after every trip, he generously sends me a small, carefully packed box brimming with my favorites – truly, thanks, Dad! The backstory of this humble company is as sweet as their confections: what started as a honey farming venture organically evolved into simultaneous candy making. Every single chocolate and candy they produce is crafted with honey, resulting in a flavor profile that is uniquely rich and incredibly delicious. My personal top recommendations include the dark chocolate haystacks, the energizing Bee Energy Bars, and their wonderfully chewy honey caramels. Supporting a small business with such a charming origin story and exceptional products is always a pleasure.
- Crazy Amazing Granola (Safe + Fair). For my birthday, my sister surprised me with a few different flavors of this Safe + Fair granola, and I was an instant convert. Seriously, an instant fan! I was so smitten that I ended up doing what any true enthusiast would do: I bought one (alright, maybe two, let’s be honest) of every single flavor available on their website. The birthday cake granola is, without exaggeration, unparalleled – it tastes exactly like celebration in a bowl. But just when I thought I had found my ultimate favorite, I dipped into the honeycrisp apple flavor, and ohmygoodness, it was a revelation! This granola is perfect for breakfast with milk, sprinkled over yogurt, or simply enjoyed straight out of the bag as a satisfying snack. The brand’s commitment to being “safe and fair” also gives me peace of mind about the ingredients.
- Oh Snap! Sassy Bites. This was a completely random grocery store discovery, and now I simply can’t enjoy my lunch without them. As a bona fide pickle fanatic, I can confidently say that these sweet + spicy pickles have carved out a permanent spot in the pantheon of the best pickles I’ve ever tasted. Yes, I’ve had Famous Dave’s, and dare I say, I think these are even better – please don’t hate me for this bold claim! Their perfect blend of sweetness, heat, and tangy crunch is addictive. Word on the street is that the pickled carrots from this same company are absolutely unreal, and they are definitely next on my list to try. These bites are perfect for adding a zing to any meal, or simply enjoying as a standalone snack.
- White Balsamic Vinegar from Baker + Olive. The same incredibly thoughtful friend who enriched my life with the fro-yo bars also gifted me some of this exquisite white balsamic vinegar from Baker + Olive, and I honestly had never experienced anything quite like it before. I quickly went through a bottle of their mango white balsamic – it was, hands down, the best vinegar I’ve ever tasted. That experience compelled me to order a wider variety of flavors, probably more than any one human could reasonably need. My internal justification? I’m planning to keep them stocked in my pantry specifically for thoughtful gifts. Buuuut, I’m already fighting a losing battle against the temptation to dip into every single flavor just to sample them all. So far, I’ve personally tried the mango, cranberry pear, and jalapeño, and each one has been outrageously delicious, offering a unique burst of flavor. I’ve also purchased and frequently use the olive oil from this same company, along with a few of their exceptional spice blends, which further enhance my culinary adventures.
As for what I do with these incredible vinegars: Beyond using them in recipes that specifically call for vinegar, such as salad dressings and marinades, their rich and vibrant flavors truly shine on their own. I regularly whisk together equal parts of my chosen Baker + Olive white balsamic vinegar and a good quality olive oil, then toss it with a simple green salad. The result is consistently divine – a light, flavorful dressing that elevates even the most basic greens. These vinegars are a game-changer for anyone who appreciates quality ingredients and simple, delicious cooking.
The Inexplicable March of Time: How Did This Happen?
It feels utterly unbelievable to reflect on the passage of time. I started this very blog almost 15 years ago, just a few short weeks after the picture you see below was taken. Looking at those tiny faces, those sweet little boys, it feels like another lifetime ago.
And what’s even more astounding is that some of you, my dear readers, have been with me on this journey for almost that entire span. Your consistent presence and support mean the world to me. 💗
Earlier this week, that adorable little boy in the blue pajamas from the first picture, who once fit so perfectly in my arms, celebrated his 18th birthday. Eighteen! It’s a milestone that simultaneously fills my heart with immense pride and a profound sense of disbelief. My internal monologue has been a whirlwind of emotion:
Me: WHO AM I AND HOW DID I GET HERE? This can’t be real.
Also me, with a self-protective whisper: DON’T GET ATTACHED, THEY GROW UP AND LEAVE YOU. Prepare yourself.
Finally me, a raw expression of all the feelings: 😭💗😭💗😭💗😭💗😭💗😭💗😭💗😭💗😭💗
Of course, I know that millions of children throughout history have grown up, graduated high school, and bravely launched themselves into the vast, exciting world. I am certainly not a pioneer in this universal experience. And yet, in these moments, I can’t help but feel like the very first mom to ever navigate the lump-in-my-throat, achingly bittersweet emotions of watching her oldest son transition through this incredible phase of life. My heart swells with an overwhelming flood of love for him, while simultaneously feeling like it’s being gently, yet surely, ripped to shreds by the bittersweet reality of his growing independence. It’s a beautiful, messy, and deeply profound journey that every parent understands.
I genuinely don’t feel old enough for this kind of milestone. Can we just hit the pause button on life for about a decade? (But only, and I stress, *only* if it can be done precisely when all the teenagers in my house are in a perpetually good mood. A mom can dream, right?) Pretty please? It’s a testament to the fleeting nature of childhood and the profound impact these moments have on us as parents.
Sourdough Adventures (And Please, Don’t Roll Your Eyes)
I must confess, I haven’t quite delved into the art of baking those iconic, rustic, impossibly gorgeous loaves of sourdough bread. You know the ones I mean: the kind with an incredibly complex sourdough flavor and a crust so wonderfully sharp it almost, quite literally, scrapes the roof of your mouth dry. Yes, *those* loaves.
However, I *have* become mildly, yet utterly, obsessed with the wonderful world of sourdough discard recipes. This is where the magic truly happens for me, transforming what might otherwise be wasted into incredibly delicious treats.
Consider this your gentle reminder and a friendly nudge to either get your hands on a thriving sourdough starter or, if you’re feeling adventurous, to make your own from scratch. Give it the time it needs to grow strong and vibrant, ready to be incorporated into some truly amazing bakes. Why the urgency? Because I’m planning to post an incredibly easy sourdough discard recipe next week that I am confident will absolutely knock your socks off. It’s simple, delicious, and a perfect way to dip your toes into sourdough baking without the intimidation of a full loaf.
Beyond that, I’m diligently working in my kitchen to perfect a recipe for the softest, fluffiest sourdough sandwich bread you’ve ever tasted, along with an absolutely flawless sourdough waffle recipe. These are designed to make the most of your discard and bring incredible flavor to your everyday meals.
If the mere thought of more sourdough recipes coming your way causes a slight cringe, please, don’t worry! I promise my blog isn’t suddenly transforming into “Sourdough Central.” While I’m certainly riding this wave of baking excitement, I assure you these are just a few specific recipes I’m super eager to share before my interest inevitably shifts to the next culinary adventure. My goal is always to bring you a variety of delicious and approachable recipes.
Celebrating Love: My Brother’s Wedding
Last month was a joyous occasion as my favorite younger brother, Nate, tied the knot. It was a profound honor (and admittedly, made me very, very nervous) to not only capture the beautiful moments by taking the wedding photos but also to craft their special wedding cake. This truly felt like a privilege, a way to contribute to his happiness on such a significant day.
Given that the wedding venue was a six-hour drive away, I had to meticulously plan the cake logistics. I baked the chocolate cake layers ahead of time, ensuring they were perfectly cooled and ready for transport. The frosting was prepared in stages, and then the final assembly and intricate decoration of the cake took place at our AirBnB in Portland, Oregon. It was a true test of my baking and decorating skills under less-than-ideal conditions, but the excitement for Nate’s big day fueled every step.
After carefully perusing the Pinterest boards that Nate and his now-husband Tim shared for inspiration, I settled on a charming rustic/woodsy vibe for the cake’s aesthetic. For the base, I used this tried-and-true chocolate cake recipe, creating a magnificent tiered structure: two decadent 9-inch layers topped with two elegant 7-inch layers, creating a beautiful height and presence.
Between each rich chocolate layer, I spread a generous amount of luscious dark chocolate ganache, and then, for an added layer of texture and surprise, I sprinkled it with dark chocolate crispy chocolate pearls (aff. link). A quick side note about these crispy pearls: they are, without exaggeration, one of the best things to happen to the world of desserts! I use them to decorate cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, but more often than not, I find myself eating them by the handful. They are just so delightfully crunchy and yummy.
Knowing that Tim prefers a frosting that isn’t overly sweet (a preference I wholeheartedly share!), I decided to use this buttery, magical frosting recipe to expertly cover the outside of the cake layers. It provides the perfect balance of sweetness and rich flavor without being cloying, allowing the deep chocolate of the cake and ganache to truly shine.
Ultimately, the cake tasted absolutely delicious – a huge relief after all the effort! But more than its flavor, I was simply ecstatic that it managed to survive the hour-long drive through unpredictable Portland traffic to the wedding venue without a single collapse. A very special shoutout, and an eternal thank you, goes to my amazing mom, who bravely held the fully assembled cake on her lap for the entire journey, acting as its personal, human stabilizer. Her dedication ensured it arrived in perfect condition.
My love for my brother, Nate, is truly boundless, more than I could ever hope to express adequately within the confines of a blog post. He’s not merely my brother; he is one of my dearest, most trusted friends. Our bond is something I cherish deeply, built on years of shared laughter, support, and understanding.
His life story is a rich tapestry, and while it’s not mine to narrate in full, I will say this: if you have been fortunate enough to know Nate during the 40 years he’s graced this earth, you are truly among the lucky ones. He embodies warmth and genuineness in every interaction. He is authentic, kind, and possesses an incredible integrity that shines through in everything he does. Beyond that, he is a phenomenal father, demonstrating unwavering love and dedication to his children. He’s also wickedly smart, with a sharp intellect, and possesses a fantastic sense of humor that can light up any room. He truly is a remarkable human being.
I am profoundly grateful for the incredible man he has become, for the beautiful, fulfilling life he is actively building, and for the fact that he has now blessed me with an equally amazing brother-in-law, Tim. Tim, with his boundless patience, listens intently as I ramble on about everything from the intricacies of sourdough starters to my unexpected fascination with pigs. Bless you, Tim, bless you indeed, for your kindness and for seamlessly becoming such a cherished part of our family.
This picture likely captures me giving Nate a playful side-eye in response to one of his many jokes. We’re constantly engaged in a lighthearted, ongoing debate about who is funnier. I mean, Nate is undoubtedly *SUPER* funny, a quick wit that always gets a laugh. But, come on, is this really still a debate? You guys, please believe me when I say: I am older, wiser, and definitely funnier. Just kidding… mostly! 😉 It’s a sibling dynamic I wouldn’t trade for anything.
Navigating Tummy Troubles and Finding Relief
For several months now, I’ve been experiencing increasingly persistent stomach issues. It’s a complex situation, and I’ve come to understand it’s likely a combination of factors: the ongoing presence of stress and anxiety in daily life, a family history predisposed to IBS, and the unfortunate reality that certain inflammatory foods simply don’t agree with my particular digestive system. It’s been a challenging journey trying to pinpoint the exact triggers and find lasting comfort.
Recently, in an effort to get to the bottom of these issues, I embarked on a rather strict elimination diet. For weeks on end, most of my meals consisted of variations of the image you see below. While it might look appealing for a brief moment, imagine eating something very similar every single day for weeks.
Which, as I quickly discovered, looks perfectly fine for about half a second until you realize the profound truth: there is simply no true joy in life without chocolate, the comforting richness of cheese, and the sheer delight of satisfying carbohydrates. The diet certainly made me appreciate the variety in my usual eating habits!
The significant upside, however, is that this disciplined approach allowed me to successfully identify some specific foods that were unequivocally causing my stomach distress. Armed with this knowledge, I can now make more informed dietary choices. In conjunction with refining my eating habits, I’ve also been consistently taking these particular digestive enzymes + probiotics (aff. link). I’ve noticed a truly remarkable and huge difference for the better when I take them regularly. They’ve become a crucial part of managing my gut health and finding a much-needed sense of internal balance and comfort.
Curating My Information: Some News Resources I Value
Like many of you, I’ve been profoundly affected by the weight and gravity of current world events, particularly the ongoing war in Ukraine. It’s a situation that evokes deep sadness and concern, and staying informed feels incredibly important. However, the sheer volume of information, coupled with the often-overwhelming noise of loud voices and the unfortunate prevalence of misinformation, can quickly lead to feeling completely inundated and helpless. If you, like me, are striving to remain informed without succumbing to overwhelm, here are some of the trusted sites and resources I regularly check to stay grounded and knowledgeable:
- @sharonsaysso: Sharon McMahon, a former government and history teacher, provides an incredibly nuanced, non-partisan, and fact-based approach to current events. She distills complex topics into digestible information, primarily through her engaging Instagram stories, making heavy news much easier to comprehend without the emotional overload.
- @mosheh: Mosheh Oinounou, a seasoned journalist, offers another fantastic resource for unbiased news. He also largely shares his insights and updates via Instagram stories, cutting through the noise with clear, concise reporting. Additionally, he publishes a very helpful email bulletin that provides a daily rundown of key events, a perfect summary for those who prefer their news delivered directly to their inbox.
- The Donut daily email: For a quick, engaging, and comprehensive overview of world events, current affairs, and a sprinkle of interesting random tidbits, The Donut is my go-to. I absolutely adore its format; it’s designed to be read in minutes, providing a smart synopsis that keeps you up-to-date without consuming your entire morning.
- @smarthernews, @theamericanmoms, and @ridethenews: These Instagram accounts have also proven to be invaluable informational resources for me. They each offer unique perspectives and clear breakdowns of news, making them accessible and helping to broaden my understanding of various issues.
- @wiserworldpodcast (and their comprehensive website): This podcast is a relatively new discovery for me, and it’s a fairly new podcast altogether, but it has quickly become an incredibly helpful tool. Its short-ish episodes delve into the historical contexts of different countries and significant global events. The four episodes specifically dedicated to the last 100 years of Russia and Ukraine were exceptionally informative and utterly fascinating, providing a much-needed historical lens through which to view current events.
Additionally, my heart has been deeply moved by the extraordinary work of World Central Kitchen in Ukraine right now. The sheer scale of meals this organization prepares and distributes to feed those displaced and affected by the conflict is absolutely mind-blowing. Their dedication to immediate, boots-on-the-ground food relief is inspiring. I’ve personally felt compelled to donate to both World Central Kitchen and Save The Children for their tireless efforts in Ukraine. These are just two of many, many worthy and reputable organizations that are in urgent need of donations right now, and I encourage you to consider supporting them if you are able. Every little bit helps make a monumental difference. 💗
You know, why do I always find myself with so much to say? It seems every time I sit down to write, the words just flow, and my life’s little snippets unfold into a much longer narrative than intended. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being here, for taking the time to read through my ramblings, and especially for sticking with me and my occasional randomness (to those of you who faithfully make it to the very end every single time). Your presence makes this space so much more meaningful. I genuinely love your guts. Just so, so much.
Now, it’s your turn! How are you doing? What’s been on your mind or bringing you joy lately? Please, let me know in the comments below – I’d truly love to hear from you and connect!