Welcome to another edition of Friday Thoughts! Get ready to dive into a blend of summer updates, exciting family news, delightful discoveries, a deep dive into women’s health, and heartfelt reflections. This series is where I share snippets of our life, recent experiences, and what’s currently inspiring me – a peek behind the kitchen curtain, so to speak. If you’re new here, feel free to explore previous Friday Thoughts posts to catch up on the journey.
Quick Summer Updates: Adventures and Milestones
- Our summer kicked off with a memorable family camping trip to Silver Creek Plunge, a new destination for us that we absolutely adored. With school out and my high school graduate choosing a quiet end to his academic year, this trip was the perfect way to embrace the freedom of summer. The rustic charm and natural beauty were truly rejuvenating. Next week, I’m excited to share our go-to Dutch oven lasagna recipe, a camping staple that made this trip even more delicious! It’s the kind of hearty, comforting meal that tastes even better cooked over an open fire under the stars.
- Life at home is bustling with our boys navigating their own summer adventures and significant milestones. My oldest son, Jackson (20), is currently living at home and working full-time, all while diligently pursuing his dream of enlisting in the Air Force. Witnessing his dedication and resolve is incredibly inspiring, and we’re all learning so much as he works towards this important goal. The other three boys (18, 16, 15) are also keeping busy, working together at a local bounce house company. Additionally, Cade (16) has taken on a landscaping and lawn mowing gig three days a week. Meanwhile, Walker (18) is preparing for a life-changing missionary service in the Philippines, set to begin in just two weeks. This summer is truly a whirlwind of growth, adventure, and proud family moments as they embark on these new chapters. In their downtime, you can almost always find them fishing or honing their skills at the bowling alley, truly embracing their youthful summers.
- This week, I had the wonderful opportunity to present at our church girls’ camp, a special event for Cam as it’s her first year attending! My message centered on a powerful reminder: “On days when you don’t feel like you are enough, remember that God thinks otherwise.” It was a privilege to share such a meaningful thought with these incredible young women. While there, I spotted the most charming “hug hut” in the middle of camp. It was a delightful, welcoming space, and the girls were absolutely lining up to experience it! What a truly heartwarming and brilliant idea to encourage connection and comfort among the campers.
- Our small town recently welcomed a new Dairy Queen, sparking quite the debate among locals – some adore it, others… not so much! We, however, have discovered the ultimate secret to maximizing DQ nights (admittedly, more often than I should probably confess): ordering an array of mini-sized Blizzards. This allows us to sample all the fantastic seasonal flavors without overdoing it. Currently, I’m absolutely obsessed with the seasonal peach Blizzard, but my all-time favorite remains the decadent brownie batter with cookie dough. It’s a sweet indulgence that brings a lot of joy to our summer evenings.
- Summer cooking, particularly dinner, presents its own unique set of challenges. With everyone’s schedules varying and the heat soaring, we’ve been leaning heavily into quick, simple meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen. I often share these easy dinner ideas on my “What’s 4 Dinner at Mel’s” Instagram series (also saved in my Instagram highlights for easy access). It’s a great way to offer inspiration for busy weeknights. My daughter, Cam, has also embraced her inner baker this summer, making and selling delicious homemade bread to friends and neighbors. She often steps in for Sunday dinner dessert duty, and her cinnamon scones have been an absolute hit – perfectly tender and packed with flavor!
Cookbook Launch Party: A Dream Come True
Last week marked a truly monumental occasion: my cookbook launch and signing party. Describing the magic of that evening feels almost impossible, as it exceeded every expectation I ever held. The venue was breathtakingly beautiful, and the weather was absolutely perfect, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.
However, what truly overwhelmed me was the sheer number of people who came. I was utterly blown away and incredibly humbled to have met over 400 of you! Many of you patiently stood in line for hours, waiting to get a book signed and share a brief moment. I wished I could have talked, laughed, and even cried with each of you for hours beyond the time we had. Your stories, your support, and your genuine enthusiasm filled my soul in countless ways.
Despite being a self-proclaimed homebody, connecting with you one-on-one was an incredibly profound experience. Hearing from those who traveled from states across the country touched me deeply. Many of you shared your favorite things with me – from thoughtful cards to jars of sourdough starter, and so much more! Your sincerity, your personal experiences, and the sacrifices many made to be there brought tears to my eyes. It underscored the incredible community we’ve built together.
It took me years to finally bring a cookbook to fruition, a dream I nurtured for a very long time. Your overwhelming response, whether you attended the event or supported from afar, has been more than I could have ever wished for. It reinforces a belief I’ve held for a long time: this platform, whatever “this” truly encompasses, is so much more than “just recipes.” It’s about connection, community, and sharing the joy of food and home. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, thank you, thank you for making this dream a vibrant reality.
For a glimpse into the joyful atmosphere of the evening, I posted a quick Instagram reel of the event, skillfully put together by Sara from Our Best Bites – a huge thank you to her! The incredible food, expertly prepared by Whitney Fredin Events, was a highlight, with attendees still raving about those deliciously flavored butters. I’m working on getting those recipes shared soon! This event truly would not have been possible without the tireless help of so many friends and family members. A special shout-out goes to Emma, who stepped in as an event planner and quite literally saved my sanity. If you’re looking for amazing event planning services, I highly recommend messaging her on Instagram.
Good news for those who couldn’t make it: all the fantastic merchandise available at the event, including our popular homebody and other hoodies, stylish aprons, and practical menu planning pads, will be hitting the shop site very soon! Keep an eye out for those exciting additions.
What I’m Reading: Captivating Stories and Profound Insights
- Emma M. Lion books: I’m currently nearing the completion of book 7 in this delightful series, and I can’t recommend it enough. These books are a perfect blend of witty humor, heartwarming romance, and charming characters that make for truly enjoyable reading. One of you even brought me an Emma M. Lion shirt at the signing, and I’ve been wearing it non-stop – #iykyk!
- Sacred Struggle: This book has been an incredible and deeply impactful read, offering profound spiritual insights that have resonated with me on many levels. It’s a book that truly makes you think and reflect.
- The Choice: An absolute must-read memoir from a Holocaust survivor, this book offers a powerful and deeply moving account of resilience, forgiveness, and the human spirit’s capacity to heal. It’s a testament to hope amidst unimaginable suffering, and I believe everyone should experience its profound message.
Things I’m Loving: Summer Essentials and Game-Changers
- These flip-flops have been my go-to footwear this summer. They are incredibly comfortable and have held up beautifully through all our family adventures, from camping to everyday errands.
- The permanent jewelry Cam and I recently got has been a fun and meaningful indulgence. I particularly love my anklet – it’s a subtle yet stylish accessory that brings a little sparkle to my everyday.
- This air fryer has been an absolute game-changer in our kitchen. I had a long, rather sordid history of despising my previous bulky air fryer, even dedicating an Instagram series to how much I disliked it. However, this larger, toaster-oven-style model, which I believe is also available at Costco (though I purchased it on Amazon), has completely transformed my opinion. It’s so much more versatile and user-friendly, making quick, crispy meals a breeze.
- This chapstick is a true lifesaver, especially for my two kids who are currently on Accutane. It’s the only product that effectively combats their extremely dry lips, providing much-needed relief and moisture.
- The Relyte electrolyte mix has become a staple in my daily routine. Most days, I blend a scoop of this with a scoop of clean simple eats collagen into 12-16 ounces of water and drink it midday for a refreshing and hydrating boost. My kids also swear by it, mixing it into water after their intense workouts to aid in recovery.
- These habanero BBQ almonds are a surprising favorite. Contrary to their name, they aren’t overly spicy, but the flavor profile is absolutely phenomenal – a perfect blend of smoky and savory. We make sure to always keep a bag stocked in our pantry for a satisfying and flavorful snack.
Podcast & Health Journey: Navigating Women’s Wellness
Content warning: I’m about to discuss menopause. Probably more than once. You have been warned.
Recently, I embarked on a fascinating deep dive into women’s health, particularly concerning hormones and the journey through peri/menopause. This was primarily sparked by listening to this podcast and this other podcast, both from Huberman Labs. My mind was completely blown (🤯 🤯 🤯)! I’m also currently reading The Hormone Cure, which is further expanding my understanding.
It’s honestly a bit embarrassing how little I knew about these critical aspects of women’s physiology. This newfound knowledge has prompted me to tackle some personal health issues head-on, and I’m surprisingly excited about the journey. I’m committed to continuing my learning, seeking professional guidance, and making significant changes to optimize my health and vitality as I navigate this phase of life. 💪🏼
From all the notes I’ve diligently jotted down, here are four key areas that have emerged as immediate improvements I can implement. While there are undoubtedly many more complex aspects to address, these provide a solid starting point for foundational changes:
- Increase protein intake
- Incorporate a wider variety of colorful fruits and vegetables
- Boost dietary fiber
- Prioritize weight lifting and muscle building
⬆️ Prioritizing Protein for Optimal Health
As I mentioned in my last Friday Thoughts post, I began tracking my protein intake, and I’m pleased to report that it’s going quite well! My daily goal is around 115 grams of protein. While I don’t always hit that exact number, I consistently strive to get as close as possible. Many of you inquired about what foods I eat to meet this goal, so here’s a peek into my rotation:
My go-to protein-rich foods include Greek yogurt (Two Good brand is my absolute favorite for its taste and macros), tuna, G2G protein bars (the coconut chocolate flavor is unparalleled, and I’m thrilled they’re now available at Costco – these are genuinely the only protein bars I enjoy because they taste like real food, not artificial fillers), hard-boiled eggs for a quick boost, a handful of pumpkin seeds and almonds, Parmesan cheese crisps (another Costco win!), various cheeses, salmon for healthy fats, cottage cheese, apples with peanut butter, abundant amounts of chicken, and a variety of beans. I also make a conscious effort to ensure our family dinners are lean protein-focused. However, if a meal, like our beloved lasagna, doesn’t quite hit the mark, I don’t stress too much. I’m aiming for an 80/20 philosophy here, focusing on consistency without rigid perfection.
Embracing the Rainbow: Eating Lots of Colors
This health goal is not only beneficial for me but also for my entire family, making it a win-win! I try not to overthink this one. My approach is simple: I focus on buying an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially those that are in season or on sale. This ensures variety and affordability. We’ve also started harvesting from our garden, which naturally encourages incorporating more fresh produce into our meals and snacks. The key is to effortlessly integrate these colorful powerhouses into every aspect of our daily diet, from vibrant salads to fruit-filled breakfasts and hearty veggie sides.
Boosting Fiber Intake: A Critical Component for Health
This is undeniably an area where I need to dedicate more effort. When I initially started tracking my fiber intake, the results were, frankly, abysmal. The research surrounding the importance of fiber for overall health, particularly as we age, is truly fascinating and compelling. Adequate fiber intake plays a crucial role in digestive health, blood sugar regulation, and even hormone balance. Naturally, incorporating all those extra colorful fruits and vegetables I mentioned above will significantly help increase my fiber consumption.
Additionally, I recently purchased this fiber supplement to further support my goals. It just arrived, so I can’t yet speak to its effectiveness, but I promise to keep you updated on my experience! (Disclaimer: I always approach the topic of supplements with caution, as opinions vary widely. Some people swear by them, while others are highly skeptical. Please, always do your own thorough research and consult with a healthcare professional to determine what’s best for your individual health needs. Never take my word alone for any supplement recommendations!)
Strength Training: Empowering Women Through Muscle
It’s almost impossible to scroll through any health and wellness platform online these days without encountering the undeniable importance of strength training, particularly for women. Building muscle is absolutely crucial for preventing bone loss, supporting metabolic health, and aiding in hormone regulation, especially as we enter and move through perimenopause and menopause. It’s a foundational aspect of long-term health and vitality.
I simply must give a huge shoutout to the Sadie Active app, which I’ve been consistently using for the past year and a half. I am not exaggerating when I say it has genuinely changed my life. Before starting this program, I didn’t truly “lift weights” in a structured way. But over the last 18-20 months, my physical strength and, perhaps even more significantly, my self-confidence have increased a hundredfold. I now actually look forward to my workouts, and I’m consistently amazed by how strong and capable I feel! I primarily do all my workouts at home using the gym setting, simply modifying the equipment as needed, but the app also offers a dedicated “home setting” for those with minimal equipment.
Many, many of you have started using this app after hearing me rave about it, and I constantly receive comments about how much it has helped you too! It’s wonderful to know we’re on this strength journey together. (Just to be clear, I am not affiliated with the app in any way; I pay for my own membership. However, I cannot recommend it highly enough for anyone looking to build strength and confidence, especially women.)
I’d truly love to hear your thoughts on these health topics. Can we all commit to staying open-minded and supportive in the comments section? 😘 Your experiences and insights are always valued.
A Few Last Things: Life on the Farm and Beyond
Alright, this has been quite the comprehensive update, but let’s continue with a few more snippets from our world!
Yes, our beloved animals are still very much a part of our daily lives! With summer temperatures soaring, we’ve been extra diligent with lots of scratches, thorough brushings, and ensuring they always have access to fresh, cool water to beat the heat. This spring brought us 20 adorable baby chicks who will soon be laying fresh eggs in just a few months – a welcome addition to our farm! We also recently celebrated the birth of a tiny new calf to one of our heifers in the back pasture, a truly heartwarming sign of new life.
My temperature blanket project is still slowly but surely coming along. It’s a truly unique creative endeavor, where each row reflects the day’s temperature with a specific color. My usual method involves letting myself get about 25 rows behind, then dedicating a few days to a satisfying catch-up session! It’s a colorful, ongoing record of the year.
We successfully relocated our garden to our front pasture this year. This move was absolutely necessary after its previous spot was demolished during our recent home remodel. We now have nine large 4×8-foot garden boxes, packed to the gills primarily with…tomatoes! Of course, we also have jalapenos, various peppers, and a few other vegetables, but it’s undeniable that there are an abundance of tomatoes. This is because, honestly, I mostly plant a garden for the sole purpose of making my incredibly popular homemade salsa – it’s a summer tradition!
And on a final, more somber note, I want to take a moment to honor the memory of my sweet friend, Liz, who peacefully passed away from cancer last week. She was a powerhouse of faith, boundless love, unwavering friendship, and pure goodness. Liz had an extensive network of truly close friends who provided immense support to her and her family throughout her brave battle with cancer. While I wasn’t among Liz’s very closest circle, I had the privilege of bringing dinner occasionally and engaging in wonderful conversations with her – discussing everything from kunekune piglets (which she and her husband, Adam, bought from us years ago) to her cherished scripture verses, and even the eternal question of whether it’s okay to eat dessert before dinner. As I’ve grappled with the profound sense of loss this past week, I initially felt a strange guilt, as if such sadness should be reserved for those who were closest to Liz. However, I’ve come to view this feeling as a powerful reminder to re-evaluate priorities in my own life, to truly focus on what genuinely matters. Life is fleeting, and none of us are guaranteed tomorrow, but we can certainly make the most of today. And truly, I am so deeply grateful for the radiant light and positive influence Liz was in my life. She consistently treated me as though I was important and valued, and her inspiring example of living as a devoted disciple of Christ with absolute faith will forever remain a guiding force in my heart. 💗
I sincerely hope summer is unfolding beautifully for all of you! I would absolutely love to hear your thoughts on any of the topics above. Please feel free to share what’s going on in your world – I always appreciate our connection here.