Friday, May 30, 2014

Skinny bench

I love that this article came out about Gwyneth Paltrow. She's so divisive! People certainly love to hate her since she sticks her foot in her mouth on the reg. Her analogies could definitely use some work. I think it all began when she started Goop, but that's also when she started releasing cookbooks. So my interest in her has only grown. G.P., actress? meh. G.P., cookbook author? Yus. Try wrestling her panko chicken recipe from My Father's Daughter from T's diehard grip. That's all he ever asks for. Last month I got her newest book and I think it's even better than the first. The recipes are so far delicious, it's a nice read, the photos are beautiful, and all so healthy and simple to make. I think it's just a matter of upgrading the pantry little by little and then you're all set. This goes perfectly with my (and by, default, Tocco's) Whole 30 plan, which begins June 1. The last two weeks have been a slow creep toward go time, kind of observing what we already have and use and what needs to go. On June 1 there will be no dairy, no sugars of any kind, no alcohol (eeps), no breads, etc. up in here. Thankfully a few friends are either fully (go Ashley!) or partially doing it too, so I think we'll keep each other on track. Right?

Last night's G.P. recipe was really good! Tocco tends to think any dinner without meat is just a side, but even he was happy with this - roasted cauliflower and chickpeas (which I know aren't allowed in Whole 30, but that starts in a few days) fresh Italian parsley, a little salt, pepper, evoo, grainy and dijon mustard. Mix it up and your good to go. Really tasty and satisfying, and it's fun to work with vegetables outside our of usual salad. For example. Tocco also recently put fresh carrots with our ground beef and tomatoes. Did it work out? What do you think? 


Space of the week/Backyard Inspo


Gardenista
So amazing. Just want.

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Paddle boarding/SUP

Every time we go out stand up paddling I can't help but feel like it's a really good metaphor for life. Everything you have to do, or should do, echoes real life. Stand up, but be flexible. Keep your eyes on the horizon. Don't get too distracted by the little things and small waves beside you. Focus on where you're going. Wear sunscreen. Stay strong, but loose. Learn how to swim. You're on your own, but it's way more fun with a friend. Check in with each other to be sure you're all safe. You will fall in, so try to laugh, it's half the fun. The water's not that deep, and not that scary. You get what I'm saying... It's such a great activity! I always think how much my sister and friends would like it. And now, Tocco surprised me by buying us our very own board, so now we can do it more often and you're all invited yaaaaaaay! :)



Monday, May 26, 2014

Memorial Day

Thank you to all of the brave servicemen and women, and all of their families, who serve our country. I am especially grateful for my sister, Chris, James, Henry, and Peter today, and all of the wonderful military friends they have made over the years. Deployments are tough. We are so thankful that Chris is on his way home from his latest deployment right this second, on Memorial Day! Welcome home, Chris!