We'll all seen those Tasty videos on Facebook. You know those videos where random people make delicious meals in under a minute? And, most of the time those videos are about super complicated desserts or ridiculous beef bourguignon recipes.
I literally save at least 2 of the videos a day, claiming that I'm going to make that mini creme brûlée or those chocolate caramel pretzel pinwheels one day. I've been saving those videos for about 4 months now and have yet to make one recipe.
Until today. While I wasperusing Facebook, I mean working, I found a paleo Tasty recipe AND I had all the ingredients in my pantry. I don't know about you, but I'd call that a success.
Spicy Coconut Tomato Chicken. I was pretty pumped when I found it because I love everything spicy. Besides the fact that it took me longer than the one minute Tasty video demonstration, it was delicious. I just really wish rice was paleo because plain chicken and veggies is just not as cool.
Oh, and the house smelled incredible. But my pictures were way less pretty than Tasty makes it look. And, I changed some things. Alright, let's do this.
Ingredients:
I literally save at least 2 of the videos a day, claiming that I'm going to make that mini creme brûlée or those chocolate caramel pretzel pinwheels one day. I've been saving those videos for about 4 months now and have yet to make one recipe.
Until today. While I was
Spicy Coconut Tomato Chicken. I was pretty pumped when I found it because I love everything spicy. Besides the fact that it took me longer than the one minute Tasty video demonstration, it was delicious. I just really wish rice was paleo because plain chicken and veggies is just not as cool.
Oh, and the house smelled incredible. But my pictures were way less pretty than Tasty makes it look. And, I changed some things. Alright, let's do this.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- 2 Tbsp. of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp. of ginger
- a scoop of peppercinis
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 scoop of tomato paste and 1 can of tomato sauce
- 1 cup of unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 cup of chicken stock
- A sprinkling (maybe 2 teaspoons) chipotle chili powder
- Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish (I didn't do this)
How to make:
- Salt and pepper chicken.
- In a large pot, brown chicken in olive oil. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add garlic, ginger, pepperocinis and onions. Cook until translucent. Pour in the tomato paste and sauce, unsweetened coconut milk and chicken broth.
- Add the chicken back to the pot. Bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 45 - 60 minutes.Serve with rice. Garnish with cilantro or parsley. I didn't do any of this. Weeps.
- Enjoy!
Things I learned/thought while making this tasty meal:
- The videos make it seem way easier than it is.
- I really need either a cell phone stand to video myself making them or convince Adam to be a blogger-husband. We're getting there.
- Learn how to speed up videos. This meal literally took me an hour. Can you imagine a video an hour long of me simmering chicken. I'm already laughing.
- Whoever is making the video has tiny hands.
- Where do I get one of those portable cook-tops?
- (half-way in) - is this worth it?
- (when I was done) - oh totally.
- Adam walked in half-way through and I told him I was making a tasty meal and his hopes were smashed when I told him it wasn't the mini creme brûlée cakes. One day babe. One day.
Let's be real, this is Tasty's picture - I didn't take any good ones.
Happy Good Friday to my favorite blog-readers! I love Fridays. Did you know Denver got over 15 inches of snow on Wednesday? If you're following me on snapchat, which you totally should (Kgrace01) you saw the craziness of the day!
During the blizzard, I drove to Court at 9am, took a nap, watched a ton of TV, had a cocktail at 5pm and helped Adam shovel our driveway. I love snow days!
There have been some really great posts this week in blogland, and I want to share them with you! Make sure to check out the girl with poop in her purse and the Friends blooper.
What are you loving this week? Share some of your favorite links below!
During the blizzard, I drove to Court at 9am, took a nap, watched a ton of TV, had a cocktail at 5pm and helped Adam shovel our driveway. I love snow days!
There have been some really great posts this week in blogland, and I want to share them with you! Make sure to check out the girl with poop in her purse and the Friends blooper.
And to all who celebrate, happy Good Friday. As a person of faith, I'm praising God today for what he did for us on the cross. --John AzoniHappy Friday loves, I hope you have a great weekend!
- MmmBop because it was released 20 years ago this month!
- Buzzfeed is giving those of us in their late twenties an award and I totally think we deserve it.
- Two words: Coconut cupcakes. I need all the cupcakes.
- Sophia Bush killing the game per usual. She gives us the not so lengthy definition of feminism. To be treated equal, is that so much to ask? "Believing in my right to live as well and as well-protected in the world as a man, doesn’t mean I hate men. And it doesn’t mean I’m going to burn all my bras and throw away all my high heels, I don’t want to be judged for wearing heels. I don’t want to be judged for wearing motorcycle boots either. It just feels like there’s so much stuff that gets placed on women that if we truly had equal opportunity, it wouldn’t even be in the conversation.”
- It's Spring, which means it's time to clean. How about cleaning without chemicals?
- If you guys haven't tried burrata cheese yet, you are missing out. Luckily for you, here's a burrata breakfast pizza recipe! Yes!
- Guys, this girl went on a date, pooped in her date's bathroom and when it wouldn't flush, she fished it out and put the POOP in her purse. She tweeted the whole story.
- Hearing the buzz about Instagram changes? Well here's the deal and it sucks.
- As you all know, I love TV. Actually, I'm obsessed. Ashley from The Grits Blog is sharing 10 shows you must be watching. I want to watch them all, even the ones I've seen.
- Confetti Cake. Coconut Cake. Bunny Cake. All combined. Can you tell I'm in a cake mood.
- I do not have my shit together. Love this honest take on a lifestyle blogger. And now I need to be friends with her.
- This Friends blooper. I die.
- This mug. I need it. It's my everyday feeling.
- Helene is giving away 15 FREE stock photos. She really is the best.
What are you loving this week? Share some of your favorite links below!
I haven't shared a recipe with you guys in a long time. And since my blog tagline says "Life, love and food" I figured it was about time. I have to preface the recipe with a little conversation Adam and I had about my fabulous idea.
If you haven't had horseradish before or don't like spicy, this is not the recipe for you.
Well, I took my jar of horseradish and smothered the salmon. I let it drip over the edges, I pilled in on and I even tapped the bottom of the jar to get out every last piece of horseradish. Yes, you read that correctly. I used an entire jar of horseradish on two pieces of salmon.
Let's just say, hindsight is 20.20.
I cooked the salmon for its allotted 7-9 minutes, The timer went off and when I opened the oven, my eyes starting stinging. The smell was so strong my nose instantly burned and the horseradish smell filled my kitchen almost immediately. It took all Adam had not to tell me he told me so. Even though I think he did later.
I was still not convinced. The smell is stronger than the flavor. I placed the two filets on the appropriate plates, dished out the asparagus andforced asked Adam to sit down and eat. One bite and we we're on the phone ordering pizza.
I love spicy food. I love horseradish. This was the strongest flavor I've ever had in my life. The one highlight - my nose was clear for a solid week.
Lexi's Clean Kitchen is usually my favorite recipe-go-to, so I have to assume homemade horseradish is 10000x less spicy. So, if you're feeling bold, go ahead, try it. And please, let me know your thoughts. God Speed.
Ps. I didn't take pictures because the fumes were so strong I thought it would melt the lens. JK. But I still didn't take pictures. Instead I'll post one from Lexi's site, mine looked similar. Kinda. Not really.
Ingredients:
Homemade Horseradish
Kristen: Adam, I found this amazing recipe for salmon.
Adam: Oh yeah?
Kristen: Yeah, and I think it was be a great combo of spicy and fish.
Adam: Okay... what makes it spicy?
Kristen: Homemade horseradish, except I don't want to make my own, so I just bought a jar of horseradish.
Adam: Are you sure that's not going to be too strong?
Kristen: Oh no, it'll be delicious, I promise.Well, let's just say those were and continue to be my famous last words. As you'll see in the recipe, you make your own horseradish and them smother, aka cover the entire salmon filet with horseradish.
If you haven't had horseradish before or don't like spicy, this is not the recipe for you.
Well, I took my jar of horseradish and smothered the salmon. I let it drip over the edges, I pilled in on and I even tapped the bottom of the jar to get out every last piece of horseradish. Yes, you read that correctly. I used an entire jar of horseradish on two pieces of salmon.
Let's just say, hindsight is 20.20.
I cooked the salmon for its allotted 7-9 minutes, The timer went off and when I opened the oven, my eyes starting stinging. The smell was so strong my nose instantly burned and the horseradish smell filled my kitchen almost immediately. It took all Adam had not to tell me he told me so. Even though I think he did later.
I was still not convinced. The smell is stronger than the flavor. I placed the two filets on the appropriate plates, dished out the asparagus and
I love spicy food. I love horseradish. This was the strongest flavor I've ever had in my life. The one highlight - my nose was clear for a solid week.
Lexi's Clean Kitchen is usually my favorite recipe-go-to, so I have to assume homemade horseradish is 10000x less spicy. So, if you're feeling bold, go ahead, try it. And please, let me know your thoughts. God Speed.
Ps. I didn't take pictures because the fumes were so strong I thought it would melt the lens. JK. But I still didn't take pictures. Instead I'll post one from Lexi's site, mine looked similar. Kinda. Not really.
Ingredients:
Homemade Horseradish
- 2 cups horseradish root, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup water
- Dash fine pink sea salt
- 3 tbsp vinegar
- 1 1/2 cup horseradish
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic granules
- Optional: herbs of choice
- Optional: 1/4 lemon, juiced
- 1 lb. wild-caught salmon filets
- Combine horseradish root and water in food processor
- Pulse until horseradish is ground
- Remove and add sea salt and vinegar*, mix well
- When ready to make your crust, line baking sheet with foil or parchment and lay salmon out
- In a bowl combine crust ingredients and mix to combine
- Brush over salmon filets
- Broil on high for 7-9 minutes
- **The longer you wait to add vinegar, the stronger the horseradish will be.
Enjoy peeps. I promise I'll post more delicious recipes soon!
If you're not on the Snapchat bandwagon, you are missing out. Sure, when it first became popular I thought it was all nude pics and naughty parts. I mean, it's reputation preceded itself. High school kids were getting caught soliciting nude pics and I didn't want anything to do with an app that did that.
But then I found out its not all nude pics and naughty parts. It's walks on the red carpet with Ryan Seacrest. It's behind the scenes at Good Morning America before the cast of Pretty Little Liars goes on and it's church on Wednesday with friends. I love snapchat. I find myself checking it immediately after Instagram.
I love when I see my friends post stories or when Coti sends me endless funny pictures and faces. Snapchat is all the rage. And if you're not on it, you're missing out.
When I first downloaded Snapchat, I legit had no clue what I was doing or how to use it. And like most thing, it takes some time getting used too. But since I would hate for any of you to miss out, here is a brief tutorial for all you newbies out there (I'm talking to you mom).
PS. All these names, I'm just making them up as we go.
But then I found out its not all nude pics and naughty parts. It's walks on the red carpet with Ryan Seacrest. It's behind the scenes at Good Morning America before the cast of Pretty Little Liars goes on and it's church on Wednesday with friends. I love snapchat. I find myself checking it immediately after Instagram.
I love when I see my friends post stories or when Coti sends me endless funny pictures and faces. Snapchat is all the rage. And if you're not on it, you're missing out.
When I first downloaded Snapchat, I legit had no clue what I was doing or how to use it. And like most thing, it takes some time getting used too. But since I would hate for any of you to miss out, here is a brief tutorial for all you newbies out there (I'm talking to you mom).
PS. All these names, I'm just making them up as we go.
- Camera Mode: When you first open Snapchat, it'll be your camera and you'll either see your self(ie) or your camera will be facing out.
- On camera mode you'll see a variety of things: (a) At the very top center is a little ghost. If you swipe down on the ghost you'll be able to add friends, see your friends or see who's added you. To add friends, click add friends and then either add from address book (where you can see people from your phone contacts), add by username (physically type in their name) or the other options, which I never use.
- Under the little ghost, you'll also see the settings button in the top right. This is where you can set your username, email, privacy settings ect. To get out of this, swipe thearrow on the bottom, up - back to camera mode.
- In camera mode, on the top right of camera mode is where you can reverse the camera to either take a selfie or take an outside facing picture.
- Okay, go back to camera mode: if you swipe right, you'll go to your notification page. This is where you will see all snaps that people send you, who's added you or who's written you. In the top left, you'll see a little quote box, this is where you can "chat" with people. Swipe left to go back to camera mode.
- In camera mode, swipe right to go to Stories and Friends. If you've added friends and they have stories, this is where you'll see them under recent updates.
- Recent updates are stories friends create that last for up to 24 hours. This is where you can see the red carpet and stories from friends and celebrities. Just click on their name and boom, story. (I'll explain how to add friends below).
- Discover is where you'll see popular stories from places like Buzzfeed, I Heart Radio, ect.
- Live is where you'll see live stories from around the globe. Things like NCAA tournament from random peoples perspectives, St Patrick's Day events, ect. These stories are compiled by Snapchat via random peoples snaps. You'll see different peoples stories all in one.
Steps 1-6
Step 5
Step 6, 7, 8 & 9
So those are all the basic things. Now I'll tell ya how to do the fun stuff:
- To create a story: Start in camera mode and either record a 10 second video or take a picture. On the bottom, the big arrow facing right allows you to share it with friends or share it to your story. If you share to your story, you will be able to see it on the stories page (#6 above).
- Picture options: When you take a picture, you'll see some options. Let's start at the top of the screen, there's an X to cancel what you just took. There's a little square to add emojis. A T to write text or a pencil to draw. On the bottom, there is a timer which only shows when you take a picture. This allows you to decide how long someone can view the picture. The arrow pointing down shares it to your story. The arrow pointing right shares with friends or to your story.
- Add a funny filter: Open camera mode and make sure the camera is facing you. While looking into the camera, hold your thumb on the screen on your face until your face is framed. On the bottom, you'll see the different filter options. Scan through, have fun, take pics and send them out!
- Add a different filter: When you take a picture or video, swipe right and you'll see different overlay filters, fast forward option, slow mo option, backwards options, temperature, speed and different filters depending on your location.
Those are the basics. Are you reading for so many funny snap stories and videos? Now that you know the secrets, here is my favorite list of people to follow!
- Me, obvs. Find me at Kgrace01
- Charlotte from Charlotte's Little Web: Find her at Charslittleweb
- Sophia Bush: Find her at sophiabushsnaps
- Selena Gomez: Find her at selenagomez
- Kylie Jenner: I know, I know. Find her at kylizzlemynizzl
- Kristine from South of Plum: Find her at baxstar23
- Taylor Wolfe from the Daily Tay: Find her at thedailytay
- Helene from Helene in Between: Find her at helenesula
- Morgan Stewart from Rich Kids of Beverly Hills: Find her at Boobssandloubss
- Kelsey from Candidly Kelsey Blog:Find her at iamkelskels
- Shay Mitchell from Pretty Little Liars: Find her at officialshaym
- Stassi Schroeder from Vanderpump Rules: Find her at stassischroeder
- Ryan Seacrest: Find him at ryanseacrest
- Cara Loren: Find her at caralorenvb
I'ts been a year ladies and gents. My last Friday Confessions was just three weeks into 2016 and here we are in the middle of March! I cannot believe how fast this year is flying!
Happy Friday everyone! I hope you have the best weekend!
- Today is my niece Violet's FIRST birthday! She visited us last weekend and is such a little joy. She's smiley, happy and so dang good! See pic below - we took a selfie, obvs. Happy Birthday Baby V!
- The NCAA Tournament started yesterday and my bracket is already broken. How is that possible.
- I'm going to Arizona tomorrow because it's my best friends wedding shower! AH! T-86 days until she gets married. This is huge news people.
- I cannot stop thinking about this Lemon Chicken Risotto. If I was going to be in town this weekend, it's what I would be making.
- It is literally taking every piece of self-control I have not to go to McDonald's and buy a Shamrock Shake. Did you know they have 23 teaspoons of sugar in them. TWENTY-THREE. Is that even legal? I'll just stick to my water.
- The last time I did this I talked about Instagram and the challenge I have gaining followers. I also promised a huge giveaway at 2000 followers. I'm not there yet. Let's get there!
- Next weekend is Easter and the first Easter in my life that Adam and I (and pre-dating Adam, just me) will not be spending it with family. This is my first holiday just me and Adam. While a part of me is kind of bummed we're not spending it with our families, I'm kind of pumped to create a tradition with just us two. And Henry, obvs.
- Allergies suck. Yesterday I blew my nose like 100 times. I tried counting, but I lost count.
- This post by Kallie about Things Only Dog Owners Will Understand. Its hilarious and so true.
- I'm really loving Snapchat lately. Monday, I'm sharing my favorite Snapchat accounts to follow - you do not want to miss this. PS -- Mine is Kgrace01
- I'm really excited about the way the Bachelor ended. While I really wanted him to end up with JoJo, I am absolutely pumped that she is the new Bachelorette. PS. That giveaway is almost over, don't forget to enter!
- As I write this post, it is snowing outside. Snowing. Do you know how horrible that is. Last weekend it was 73! Thank Jesus, I'm going to Arizona Saturday.
Happy Friday everyone! I hope you have the best weekend!
I love Bachelor finales. They're full of parents, advice, Neil Lane diamonds and tons and tons of drama. This finale was no different. I had a lot of questions going into this finale.
Stop now if you don't want spoilers. If you're like me and cannot not watch it live, read on.
NO! I think that is the first time I cried when someone left. Wow.
Is this the first Bachelor to actually call the dad pre-engagement? That was amazing.
Congrats Lauren, not that I'm surprised. I mean I did call you winning in week one.
It's over. Ben picked Lauren and according to the After the Final Rose special, they're happier than ever, despite Ben telling JoJo he loved her too. And a wedding? Is this real.
Stop now if you don't want spoilers. If you're like me and cannot not watch it live, read on.
- Who does he pick? Lauren
- How does the winner deal with the double I love you. They dealt with it already apparently, so she's good.
- Who does Ben call? Ben calls Lauren's dad.
- What shape diamond does Ben pick? The diamond is huge. Thats the shape -- huge.
- How many times does Chris Harrison comfort Ben? Chris Harrison comforts Ben zero times - Chris where the hell were you??
- Is the other girl over Ben yet? No, yes, kind of? I don't know, all I know is she looked stunning.
- Is the winner moving to Denver? (Here's hoping and we can become friends!) Yes!
- Who will be the next Bachelorette? JoJo - Hooray!!
Luckily for me, this finale did not disappoint. Ben/Chris and Lauren answered all my questions, and boy some were doozies.
Let's recap. The episode starts with Chris Harrison telling us that Ben could get married at After the Final Rose, what?! Cue Lauren B and JoJo looking whimsically towards the ocean with voice overs. Man, I'm going to miss this show.
Ben is still in love with two women. The parental visits are huge. As history has told us, the parents are usually right. I don't know about you, but Ben's mom seems super skectipal about this whole thing. I mean she said she finds it disturbing that he loves two women, which I can't disagree with.
Ben literally says love you like he's been saying it forever. And did you hear Lauren say I want to get married tomorrow? Just like Ben did? Is that some foreshadowing?
JoJo comes off better than Lauren. She makes a better first impression. JoJo meeting the parents gave me all the feels. I love them.
This whole After the Final Rose Wedding is ridic. PS. Adam thinks based on the parents, Lauren wins. Ben might be the first Bachelor in history who is actually taking this seriously.
I'm over his and Lauren's one-on-one. I'm bored. I'm ready to find out who wins.
I'm in love with JoJo too Ben, I get it. Besides the fact that she says babe all the time, I'm rooting for her. I think JoJo is better suited for Ben. Lauren is the perfect Bachelor contestant.
Can you literally feel the knives in JoJo's heart when Ben tells JoJo he loves Lauren too. Ugh.
So that's awkward when Neil Lane asks Ben whom he loves. Ugh. Cue the montage.
NO! I think that is the first time I cried when someone left. Wow.
Is this the first Bachelor to actually call the dad pre-engagement? That was amazing.
Congrats Lauren, not that I'm surprised. I mean I did call you winning in week one.
It's over. Ben picked Lauren and according to the After the Final Rose special, they're happier than ever, despite Ben telling JoJo he loved her too. And a wedding? Is this real.
To reward you for sticking with me for the last three months, I'm doing a giveaway! If you're a Bachelor lover like me, you want to know the behind the scene scoop. How long are those rose ceremonies anyways? Do you wear makeup to bed for fear of a mid-night wake up call?
I'm sure most of you remember Courtney, the biggest villain. Trista, the first one to find love or what about Sean, the one with a baby on the way. Well, today I'm letting YOU choose what Bachelor book you want to read. Chris Harrison's novel? Or Andi's tell all about Juan Pablo (side-note, this doesn't come out until May, but I won't forget!).
Enter below to win a copy of your choice!
Enter below to win a copy of your choice!
See ya soon people, I cannot wait for a season of JoJo!
Happy Monday folks! I'm still coming off the high from all the support I received Friday after my broody, self-deprecating post. You guys are the best. I hope I tell you that enough. Thank you for supporting me in this big world of bloggers.
It's Monday, the sun in shining so bright I almost have to wear sunglasses inside and I am coming off a fantastic weekend filled with family and trips to the children's museum. I'm feeling inspired and refreshed. Plus tonight, we find out who Ben picks! I'm dying.
A few weeks back I guest posted over on Candidly Kelsey Blog about 5 books you should be reading or have read. Candidly Kelsey is one of my favs. She's hilarious, honest and keeps things super fresh. The original post is HERE!
5 books you should be reading (or have read). Now, let me preface this with; I understand everyone likes all different kinds of books. There are books that either I love and can get lost in or the ones that have made a huge impact on my life. But, hey everyone's different, that's what so rad about blogs and guest posts! I think these books are fantastic, engaging, well-written and I think you should read them! Below is my take on the book, plus a little recap on the story.
3. The Girl on the Train: THIS BOOK. Talk about a book I could not put down. Even my husband was asking when I was going to be done! This book kept my attention the entire time. Now, side-note, it takes about 2 chapters to get in to it, but once you're in, you won't be able to stop. When it was over, I felt like I had a book hangover. I couldn't stop thinking about it.
Rachel takes the same commuter train every morning. Every day she rattles down the track, flashes past a stretch of cozy suburban homes, and stops at the signal that allows her to daily watch the same couple breakfasting on their deck. She’s even started to feel like she knows them. “Jess and Jason,” she calls them. Their life—as she sees it—is perfect. Not unlike the life she recently lost.
4. For the Love: Fighting for Grace in a World of Impossible Standards by Jen Hatmaker: This book saved me. Not in the literal sense, obvs but changed my perspective in a way I didn't know I needed. This book focuses on fighting the worlds standards. Its about being good, while enjoying life, laughing and maybe learning to laugh all with God's grace. This is such a great story and she is so incredibly funny and honest in her writing.
She reveals how to: Break free of guilt and shame by dismantling the unattainable Pinterest life.
5. Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom: If you want to cry as you read, this is the book for you. Okay, that is a horrible way to sell a book, but this is seriously in my top 5 favorite books of all time list. It's about a mentee learning from his mentor in his last days. It's about life and love and the journey we take every day. It's incredibly moving, funny, loving and hands down one of the greatest books I've read.
Mitch Albom had that second chance. He rediscovered Morrie in the last months of the older man's life. Knowing he was dying of ALS - or motor neurone disease - Mitch visited Morrie in his study every Tuesday, just as they used to back in college. Their rekindled relationship turned into one final 'class': lessons in how to live.
Have you read any of these books? Whats on your must-read reading list?
It's Monday, the sun in shining so bright I almost have to wear sunglasses inside and I am coming off a fantastic weekend filled with family and trips to the children's museum. I'm feeling inspired and refreshed. Plus tonight, we find out who Ben picks! I'm dying.
A few weeks back I guest posted over on Candidly Kelsey Blog about 5 books you should be reading or have read. Candidly Kelsey is one of my favs. She's hilarious, honest and keeps things super fresh. The original post is HERE!
5 books you should be reading (or have read). Now, let me preface this with; I understand everyone likes all different kinds of books. There are books that either I love and can get lost in or the ones that have made a huge impact on my life. But, hey everyone's different, that's what so rad about blogs and guest posts! I think these books are fantastic, engaging, well-written and I think you should read them! Below is my take on the book, plus a little recap on the story.
1. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee: I couldn't really give you a list of books and not start with a classic. I first read this book in maybe 6th grade and I've read it probably 15 times since then. Also, Harper Lee just passed away, so this is a little tribute to the wonder and author that she was
Set in the small Southern town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Depression, To Kill a Mockingbird follows three years in the life of 8-year-old Scout Finch, her brother, Jem, and their father, Atticus--three years punctuated by the arrest and eventual trial of a young black man accused of raping a white woman. Though her story explores big themes, Harper Lee chooses to tell it through the eyes of a child. The result is a tough and tender novel of race, class, justice, and the pain of growing up.
2. The Rumor by Elin Hildenbrand: I never said I was a literary scholar, sometimes books are good because you get lost in them. This is exactly how this book is. All her books are based in Nantucket. Once you've read one, you'll want to read all the rest.
Madeline King and Grace Pancik are the best of friends of the envy of Nantucket for their perfect marriages, beautiful kids and their Sunday night double dates with their devoted husbands.
3. The Girl on the Train: THIS BOOK. Talk about a book I could not put down. Even my husband was asking when I was going to be done! This book kept my attention the entire time. Now, side-note, it takes about 2 chapters to get in to it, but once you're in, you won't be able to stop. When it was over, I felt like I had a book hangover. I couldn't stop thinking about it.
Rachel takes the same commuter train every morning. Every day she rattles down the track, flashes past a stretch of cozy suburban homes, and stops at the signal that allows her to daily watch the same couple breakfasting on their deck. She’s even started to feel like she knows them. “Jess and Jason,” she calls them. Their life—as she sees it—is perfect. Not unlike the life she recently lost.
4. For the Love: Fighting for Grace in a World of Impossible Standards by Jen Hatmaker: This book saved me. Not in the literal sense, obvs but changed my perspective in a way I didn't know I needed. This book focuses on fighting the worlds standards. Its about being good, while enjoying life, laughing and maybe learning to laugh all with God's grace. This is such a great story and she is so incredibly funny and honest in her writing.
She reveals how to: Break free of guilt and shame by dismantling the unattainable Pinterest life.
5. Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom: If you want to cry as you read, this is the book for you. Okay, that is a horrible way to sell a book, but this is seriously in my top 5 favorite books of all time list. It's about a mentee learning from his mentor in his last days. It's about life and love and the journey we take every day. It's incredibly moving, funny, loving and hands down one of the greatest books I've read.
Mitch Albom had that second chance. He rediscovered Morrie in the last months of the older man's life. Knowing he was dying of ALS - or motor neurone disease - Mitch visited Morrie in his study every Tuesday, just as they used to back in college. Their rekindled relationship turned into one final 'class': lessons in how to live.
Have you read any of these books? Whats on your must-read reading list?
I have to apologize for my lack of blogging recently. Besides moving into our new house, I really have no excuse for my lack of witty banter and recipes. To be honest, I just haven't wanted to blog.
Putting that on paper makes me sound super blah, but it's the truth. Lately, I've felt uninspired and bored. The problem with that state of mind is that it easily translates to my blog posts. And the last thing I ever wanted to provide my readers with are garbage posts to fill a space. And the worst part, is I feel like I HAVE to write apology posts. I hate that I feel such guilt for taking a vacation and not posting.
This is not what I signed up for 9 years ago. It's so easy to get wrapped up in what I should be doing, instead of what I want to be doing. When I started this blog it was called "Wheresoever you go, go with all your heart." Based on how I've been feeling it should be called, "whatsoever you do, it should be blogging all the time." It's hard to not get wrapped up in feeling inadequate.
I'm the first to admit that I'm not the ideal blogger for a lot of reasons. In recent months, more like the last six months, I've felt this intense pressure to be the best blogger. Attend workshops, grow and gain followers (but only authentic followers), craft the BEST content every single day and heaven-forbid if you miss a day, your readers will hate you and stop reading your blog.
This post isn't a dig at all you incredible bloggers. Please don't take it that way. This one's not about you. Trust me, I love you, admire you and inspire to be you. This is me releasing my insecurities as a blogger and an adult by putting them into words. This is a challenge to myself. I know if I want to really make it and be a full time blogger I have to // need to do these things.
But for now, I'm letting go of the blogger guilt I have and embracing the fact that I will grow at a different rate than others. Some days, I feel like I'm a very very teeny fish attempting to keep up with all the big-blogger fish in the ocean.
Some weeks I only blog twice and then I have to start my blog with an apology (see above). But the reality of it, is that life is busy and how you super-bloggers do it, please share your tips. And if sleeping only 3 hours a night is your tip, I can't or I'll get angry.
I don't have a newsletter that goes out with different content then what's on my blog. I'm working on that this weekend, but Denver is tempting us with 75 degree weather on Saturday so there's a huge chance I won't and instead I'll be on an outside patio.
Instagram is my biggest frustration. How do people have 500,000 followers? I'm dying for 2000. I don't spend 3 hours posing for Instagram pictures just to get the right shot, even though I know I should. I don't post on Instagram every day. I've heard it everywhere that the key to Instagram is authenticity. Well, if I'm being authentic, I'm a lawyer with a desk job and 8 hours a day I'm staring at a computer. So figuring out something to post that's also interesting when most of my day isn't interesting, is really freaking hard.
This post is a vent, a release of energy and a promise.
I'm not the best blogger. But I love to blog and I promise that when I post, I will post interesting content. I promise that I will remain authentic, even if that means I'm not posting every day. I promise that I will support all my other blogger-friends, because if we're not in this journey together, what's the point. I promise that I'll work harder.
It's incredible what happens when you release pent-up energy. Just while writing this post, I came up with some fun ideas for posts. Stay tuned peeps, I promised interesting and that is just what you'll get. I want to blog now.
If you made it to the end of this long rambling vent session of a blog post, thanks for reading. Thanks for not only reading today, but everyday. You guys rock.
Putting that on paper makes me sound super blah, but it's the truth. Lately, I've felt uninspired and bored. The problem with that state of mind is that it easily translates to my blog posts. And the last thing I ever wanted to provide my readers with are garbage posts to fill a space. And the worst part, is I feel like I HAVE to write apology posts. I hate that I feel such guilt for taking a vacation and not posting.
This is not what I signed up for 9 years ago. It's so easy to get wrapped up in what I should be doing, instead of what I want to be doing. When I started this blog it was called "Wheresoever you go, go with all your heart." Based on how I've been feeling it should be called, "whatsoever you do, it should be blogging all the time." It's hard to not get wrapped up in feeling inadequate.
I'm the first to admit that I'm not the ideal blogger for a lot of reasons. In recent months, more like the last six months, I've felt this intense pressure to be the best blogger. Attend workshops, grow and gain followers (but only authentic followers), craft the BEST content every single day and heaven-forbid if you miss a day, your readers will hate you and stop reading your blog.
This post isn't a dig at all you incredible bloggers. Please don't take it that way. This one's not about you. Trust me, I love you, admire you and inspire to be you. This is me releasing my insecurities as a blogger and an adult by putting them into words. This is a challenge to myself. I know if I want to really make it and be a full time blogger I have to // need to do these things.
But for now, I'm letting go of the blogger guilt I have and embracing the fact that I will grow at a different rate than others. Some days, I feel like I'm a very very teeny fish attempting to keep up with all the big-blogger fish in the ocean.
There is a quote that says "Your success does not depend on the failure of others" but I think I have to change that quote to say "My success does not lessen based on the success of others." There's room for all of us in this blogging pond. PS. Jennifer at The Champagne Supernova wrote a great inspirational post and I got this image (below) from her. She's inspiring. Go show her love.
I don't spend 8 hours a day blogging. I wish I could, trust me, but I cannot. I wish I could quit my job and jump into the blogging world full time. To say I'm jealous of full-time bloggers is an understatement. They're my inspiration daily to keep this little space going.Some weeks I only blog twice and then I have to start my blog with an apology (see above). But the reality of it, is that life is busy and how you super-bloggers do it, please share your tips. And if sleeping only 3 hours a night is your tip, I can't or I'll get angry.
I don't have a newsletter that goes out with different content then what's on my blog. I'm working on that this weekend, but Denver is tempting us with 75 degree weather on Saturday so there's a huge chance I won't and instead I'll be on an outside patio.
This post is a vent, a release of energy and a promise.
I'm not the best blogger. But I love to blog and I promise that when I post, I will post interesting content. I promise that I will remain authentic, even if that means I'm not posting every day. I promise that I will support all my other blogger-friends, because if we're not in this journey together, what's the point. I promise that I'll work harder.
It's incredible what happens when you release pent-up energy. Just while writing this post, I came up with some fun ideas for posts. Stay tuned peeps, I promised interesting and that is just what you'll get. I want to blog now.
If you made it to the end of this long rambling vent session of a blog post, thanks for reading. Thanks for not only reading today, but everyday. You guys rock.
I absolutely LOVE the woman tell all. I love the drama, the tears, the lies and the best part is the preview of next week, the grand finale, the most dramatic end ever! This week/season is going to be exceptional because Olivia is here and the girls are totally going to put her on blast.
Ps. I am so glad I don't live in LA so Chris Harrison cannot walk into my house on Bachelor night. He'd find a lot of wine, me in PJs and I would so not be camera ready.
Okay, here we go ladies and gents - the woman are about to tell all. Don't forgot to vote at the end of the post! It's time to pick who wins Ben's heart! Who do you think it is -- Lauren B or JoJo.
Cast your vote!
Alright everyone, the time is here. We are ONE week away from the three hour finale. Voting time! Who's your pick for the future Mrs. Higgins?
Ps. I am so glad I don't live in LA so Chris Harrison cannot walk into my house on Bachelor night. He'd find a lot of wine, me in PJs and I would so not be camera ready.
Okay, here we go ladies and gents - the woman are about to tell all. Don't forgot to vote at the end of the post! It's time to pick who wins Ben's heart! Who do you think it is -- Lauren B or JoJo.
Cast your vote!
- We're you as confused as I was when they were announcing the girls? I totally didn't remember Jami or the chicken girl.
- Caila looks different. Why?
- How awkward is it watching Olivia watch everyone talking shit about her! Yikes.
- Jami. Who are you? How can you have all these opinions when you weren't even there.
- I feel sad for Jubilee.
- Lace, I can't with you. I've spent wayyy too many blogs talking about you - I can't and I won't.
- This is pretty awful.
- A tattoo of Lace, that is not real.
- Shocking, Lace is going to BIP.
- Do they just pick the crazies for bachelor in paradise? Yes Adam, yes they do.
- Olivia, I am loving your jumpsuit.
- The twins' expressions during all of this show their age so much.
- Watching Olivia trying to talk herself out of the hole she dug is pretty sad.
- I don't like Olivia, let's be real, but I do feel bad about her being bullied, that's never cool.
- I really hope Caila isn't the next Bachelorette. I think she's darling, but I cannot watch an entire season of her. And what is different about her? I can't tell! help!
- Kristen, if she is the next bachelorette, we are not watching this. Never mind, regardless, I am not watching this next season.
enough mouth pictures, here's an Olivia-anchor pic.
- Did Ben really have to throw the dagger to Caila that he loved the other two, therefore insinuating that he didn't love her. Come on Benny.
- I love that Chris Harrison called Ben out for the double I love yous.
- Oh Leah. Girlfriend, you never had a chance - you tried to throw Lauren under the bus and then you lied. Next.
- Amanda, you are the nicest person in the world. I adore you.
- The bug bloopers with the girls freaking out are so funny. Oh my gosh. And, the bloopers made me like JoJo even more than I already do.
- I think based on Caila's reaction to the finale, she is not quite over Ben.
- Next week is three hours. Looks like I might be watching alone.
Who wins The Bachelor?
Happy March everyone! I hope you had a wonderful extra day of the year yesterday! PS. I'm extending the ad sale for one more day (use promo code LeapYear) let's be blog friends.
Yesterday was a pretty fantastic day for me - Chrissy Teigan liked my Instagram picture (that I tagged her in) and I fangirl crushed for a while. Guys, she is legit my favorite famous person. It was a big day. Anywayyyss, enough embarrassing myself about my Chrissy crush. It's bachelor time!
This is my favorite episode of all of the episodes. Well, besides the one where he proposes. This week we get the FINAL two. This week Ben says I love you to TWO girls. TWO girls -- that has never happened! This week we are one week closer to an engagement. This week is the biggest week.
I'm writing this as I watch and my predictions are as following: I'm guessing that Caila goes home. Lauren wins and Jojo is the next Bachelorette. What do you think? The actual result is at the bottom, so if you don't want a spoiler, stop reading now.
Caila: The first date of the week. In my Bachelor knowledge, the first date is the date going home. It was super weird watching Ben recount his feelings for Caila. He was so awkward about her and it makes me think she's for sure going home. PS. Is it a requirement that the girls don't wear shirts? Back to Caila -- this boat ride is so damn awkward. She is so weird. Oh Ben, you are so intuitive, questioning whether or not Caila has something on her mind. And Caila, we get it, you don't want to live with regrets. Let's move on.
Maybe its just me but I feel like everything Caila says is so scripted. It's like every response is super thought out and calculated. I am not feeling her. And don't even get me started on the over night. Its so funny to me that everyone acts like they don't know its coming or they don't now what its about. Cue the fireworks pre-over night while making out on the bed, thats pretty.... cliche? We'll leave it at that.
Lauren: Frontrunner. Two words: baby turtles. Oh my gosh, Ben prayed for the turtles. I am dead. Baby turtles. The girls are totally rocking the crop top dresses tonight. I am loving Lauren's pink little ensemble. This might sound weird, but Ben and Lauren are obsessed with each other. I don't know if its in an unhealthy way, but this whole "you're too good for me thing" as we gaze into each others eyes and then make out, makes it seem like they are just infatuated.
Couldn't Chris at least write the overnight date cards differently? The same phrase for all three girls. Come Chris- you're better than that. I guess it's good that it's not the same fantasy suite. Ben, this is going to be so bad. You cannot tell two people you're in love. Guys, you cannot do this. Chris get in there and stop this. If you don't pick Lauren now, you're mean Ben.
Jojo: I still haven't figured out whether or not her name is spelled Jojo or JoJo. Do you guys have any insight? His heart is with Lauren and he's going on a date with JoJo. Oh lordy. JoJo speaking the words of every person everywhere, "are you allowed to say that?" I'll answer that for you. No Ben, you are not supposed to say that! Especially twice.
This whole love saga is throwing me for a huge loop. One of these poor girls is just going to be wrecked. The more I watch JoJo, I love her more and more. Kristen, this is crazy - its inhumane. Adam is killing me with the commentary tonight, every time Ben says I love you, he laughs.
Oh no Caila, what are you doing there and why are you so smiley. The Producers of this show are equally evil. Ben doesn't want to hold her hand. He doesn't even want to hug her. This is so awkward. Wow, Caila, you handled that way better than I would have. Props to you girl. And your hair still looks on point.
JoJo, you are stunning. Lauren, you are gorgeous too.
Chris Harrison is dying as they both say Ben said I love you back. See you all at the woman tell all!
Bye, bye Caila.
This is my favorite episode of all of the episodes. Well, besides the one where he proposes. This week we get the FINAL two. This week Ben says I love you to TWO girls. TWO girls -- that has never happened! This week we are one week closer to an engagement. This week is the biggest week.
I'm writing this as I watch and my predictions are as following: I'm guessing that Caila goes home. Lauren wins and Jojo is the next Bachelorette. What do you think? The actual result is at the bottom, so if you don't want a spoiler, stop reading now.
Here are my date recaps and thoughts about these ladies:
Caila: The first date of the week. In my Bachelor knowledge, the first date is the date going home. It was super weird watching Ben recount his feelings for Caila. He was so awkward about her and it makes me think she's for sure going home. PS. Is it a requirement that the girls don't wear shirts? Back to Caila -- this boat ride is so damn awkward. She is so weird. Oh Ben, you are so intuitive, questioning whether or not Caila has something on her mind. And Caila, we get it, you don't want to live with regrets. Let's move on.
Maybe its just me but I feel like everything Caila says is so scripted. It's like every response is super thought out and calculated. I am not feeling her. And don't even get me started on the over night. Its so funny to me that everyone acts like they don't know its coming or they don't now what its about. Cue the fireworks pre-over night while making out on the bed, thats pretty.... cliche? We'll leave it at that.
Lauren: Frontrunner. Two words: baby turtles. Oh my gosh, Ben prayed for the turtles. I am dead. Baby turtles. The girls are totally rocking the crop top dresses tonight. I am loving Lauren's pink little ensemble. This might sound weird, but Ben and Lauren are obsessed with each other. I don't know if its in an unhealthy way, but this whole "you're too good for me thing" as we gaze into each others eyes and then make out, makes it seem like they are just infatuated.
Couldn't Chris at least write the overnight date cards differently? The same phrase for all three girls. Come Chris- you're better than that. I guess it's good that it's not the same fantasy suite. Ben, this is going to be so bad. You cannot tell two people you're in love. Guys, you cannot do this. Chris get in there and stop this. If you don't pick Lauren now, you're mean Ben.
Jojo: I still haven't figured out whether or not her name is spelled Jojo or JoJo. Do you guys have any insight? His heart is with Lauren and he's going on a date with JoJo. Oh lordy. JoJo speaking the words of every person everywhere, "are you allowed to say that?" I'll answer that for you. No Ben, you are not supposed to say that! Especially twice.
This whole love saga is throwing me for a huge loop. One of these poor girls is just going to be wrecked. The more I watch JoJo, I love her more and more. Kristen, this is crazy - its inhumane. Adam is killing me with the commentary tonight, every time Ben says I love you, he laughs.
Oh no Caila, what are you doing there and why are you so smiley. The Producers of this show are equally evil. Ben doesn't want to hold her hand. He doesn't even want to hug her. This is so awkward. Wow, Caila, you handled that way better than I would have. Props to you girl. And your hair still looks on point.
JoJo, you are stunning. Lauren, you are gorgeous too.
Chris Harrison is dying as they both say Ben said I love you back. See you all at the woman tell all!
Bye, bye Caila.
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