Rice Krispie treats are such a classic recipe, you really cannot mess it up. But you can definitely jazz it up a bit, and honestly…I can’t go back. Trust me on this friends.
Yield: 12-18
Author: Ari Morasco
Brown Butter White Chocolate Rice Krispies
Once you start making rice krispie treats this way, I promise you it will be so hard to go back. The combo of brown butter mixed with soft chewy marhsmallows, a crunch from the cereal, and a sweet hint of white chocolate...amazing!
Prep time: 2 MinCook time: 10 MinTotal time: 12 Min
Ingredients
Rice Krispies
1 stick salted butter, or 1/2 cup
1 - 10 ounce bag marshmallows, plus 1 cup
1 Tb. vanilla
6 cups puffed rice cereal, can use Kellogg brand
1/2 cup chopped white chocolate or chocolate chips
Instructions
Reserve 2 cups of your marshmallows and set aside.
Grease a 9x13 pan and then line with parchment paper. Set aside.
In a shallow pan add your butter. Heat on medium and melt butter, then continually cook while constantly stiring, or stiring often.
The butter will start to bubble, then froth, and eventually start to turn a deep caramel bown color. Once it reaches that level, remove from heat.
Pour butter into a large pot and heat on medium. Add your marshmallows, not the 2 cups, and stir until melted. Then add your vanilla. Turn off heat.
Fold in rice krispies and then extra marshmallows.
Pour mixture into pan and gently press into pan.
Melt white chocolate and drizzle on top of treats. Let cool or dig in immediately for a melty goodness!
I love a good protein ball to have on hand when I need a little pick me up. I kind of feel like a need pick me ups more often than I would like to admit! I think we all know the benefits of having a good protein treat on hand for when things get busy and crazy, but I would also like to add these are perfect for kiddos lunches!
My girls love cookies and treats packed in their lunches, but I’d like to think these balls are equally sweet and delicious, while filling. Anything to keep my kids from coming home and eating everything in sight, right?
You could also switch up the flavors with different spices, protein powders, and nut butters!
1 scoop chocolate protein powder, I’ve used VEGA for years and love it
1 cup old fashioned oats
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 tsp. cinnamon, optional
3/4 cup naturally sweetened chocolate chips
Directions:
Add all ingredients into a medium bowl and mix together until combined. The dough will seem a little wet, but it will firm up once the oats start to absorb the liquid.
Next using a cookie scoop, form into balls. Place on parchment paper and let rest to firm up, about 5/10 minutes.
Keep in a covered container until ready to eat. I like to store mine in the refrigerator.
These links contain Amazon Affiliate links, which means The Diva Dish gets a portion of the purchased item. Thank you so much for supporting The Diva Dish!
*This is comfort food at it's finest. Meatball and Spaghetti Soup is the perfect combination of two comfort foods, soup and pasta, mixed into one! It's a quick and easy dish, and it's hearty and filling.* *******************************************************************************************
Here's the deal. I know reading blogs is a thing of the past. So 2012. 2010? Either way, we are a visual world. I know that most of you might just scroll past this and not even read what I'm writing, look at a few of the pics, and go right down to the recipe. You will check the ingredients and then, "Hmmm that sounds doable...I'll have to remember that, Oh wait! I have a new Instagram notification!"
So basically, I could really say whatever the flying fargin bastage I want. I could tell you the most embarrassing story about my husband, and no one would know. Except my mom, because I think she still reads my blog? Maybe.
So for now, mom, and maybe some random person from France, thank you for getting to this point. I know it was painful, and excruciating. Have you ever typed out excruciating? It's excruciating.
I'm sorry there is no clever hilarious story, but I'm going to be honest. This day light savings thing has me screwed up and Real Housewives of Atlanta is on. I am not thinking straight.
Here is the recipe you've all been waiting for....The End.
This delicious Meatball & Spaghetti Soup is a quick weeknight meal that is all comfort! It can be made in under 25 minutes! There is also a vegan/vegetarian option if you use vegan meatballs and vegan parmesan cheese!
Meatball and Spaghetti Soup
Ingredients
1 onion diced
4-5 cloves garlic, diced
2 TB. olive oil
1 small can tomato paste
1 large can crushed tomatoes
4 c. marinara sauce (jarred or homemade)
8-10 c. vegetable broth**
2 TB. Italian seasoning
1 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. cane sugar
12 oz. dried pasta of choice
18-20 cooked meatballs, (Can sub vegetarian meatballs)
1 1/2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup freshly chopped Italian parsley
1/2 cup freshly chopped basil
salt and pepper to taste, I started with 1 tsp. of each.
Instructions
In a saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil.
Then add in the onions and garlic. Stir and cook down the mixture until the onions are translucent.
Next add in your tomato paste. Mix it around for about 30 seconds, then add in your crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, broth, and spices.
Cover and let the soup simmer on a low boil for 10 minutes.
Add in the cooked meatballs and dried pasta, 1 cup of the parmesan cheese, and 1/2 the amount of fresh herbs. Stir and continue to simmer for about 5 or so minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Remove from heat so the pasta doesn’t overcook.
Serve with the extra parmesan cheese on top as well as fresh herbs and enjoy!
**Sometimes with a soup that has pasta, the liquid can keep absorbing into it, which causes the soup to thicken and while also giving you a very soft overcooked pasta. It is key to add the pasta into the last part of the cooking process, and If necessary add a little more liquid. (You will need to adjust the seasonings if doing so.)
3.5.3208
A little about this soup. It's the perfect combination of 2 comfort foods, soup and spaghetti. It makes a lot of leftovers if you have children who eat like birds, which makes for a perfect mommy/daddy lunch!
Don't forget a side salad to add some veggies to this heavier carb dish, because you also can't forget the garlic bread! If you make your own meatballs, I LOVE this recipe. It's my go-to every time. I will make the meatballs while the soup is cooking, and then throw them in at the end! It also has veggies in the meatballs, and if you include a side salad you are on track! It's the perfect Sunday dinnel or when you are having guests over. This is a really long paragraph, so hopefully you get my point :).
If you made it this far, go ahead and eat some chocolate. You deserve it! You unique one of a kind son of a gun! Bonjour! xo
From the age of 16 through 20 I worked at smoothie businesses.
One might think this is where my love of 'healthy living' developed...But when a pizza place next door starts exchanging you breadsticks for smoothie, well...
The BEST Acai Bowl from The Diva Dish
Also, did you know the majority of smoothie chains make their smoothies with sugary juice and frozen yogurt ice cream? It makes them taste oh so delicious! But it also kind of cancels out the fact that drinking a smoothie is a healthier option.
Does that mean pizza bread sticks could have been a healthier choice?!
I'd like to think so.
The BEST Acai Bowl from The Diva Dish
Hands down one of my ALL TIME favorite smoothies are Acai bowls, which are becoming quite popular.
(Let it be known that I totally like Acai Bowls before they were cool.)
But unlike so many others, I won't toss my beloved smoothie bowls to the curb when it gets popular. I won't think of it any different even though it has become quite the media whore.
No. I will love them forever. Why? Because when Acai Bowls are tomorrows news and another health craze becomes the star...I'll still be there. Just like I was for Kale.
The BEST Acai Bowl from The Diva Dish
One smoothie place I worked for used apple juice and strawberry juice with acai ice cream.
Another used almond milk, vanilla ice cream, and acai smoothie packs.
The BEST Acai Bowl from The Diva Dish
With the knowledge I have and for the love of all things healthy, I came up with is what I think the BEST Acai Bowl ever.
But seriously, what makes them so popular? Besides the looks, it's a great way to make a meal out of a smoothie. You can add fruit, crunchy granola, and a drizzle of funny and eat it all up with a spoon!
It's mad I tell you, MAD. But once you do it, you won't be able to stop thinking about it. Then before you know it, you will dream about it, and then well...
The BEST Acai Bowl from The Diva Dish
Then you will make an acai bowl i guess.
Or you will drive to the nearest juice bar and have them make it for you because most likely they will know you by name and exactly what you want. So in order to avoid that embarrassment you will have to make it at home sometimes.
You're welcome.
The BEST Acai Bowl from The Diva Dish
The BEST Acai Bowl
Ingredients
1 acai smoothie packs, I found mine at Costco
Handful of frozen strawberries and blueberries
1 frozen banana
a little bit of non dairy milk-I used cashew or almond
(opt. a little bit of apple juice)
1 TB. agave
handful of ice
Toppings:
chopped fresh strawberries, frozen blueberries, sliced bananas, and a drizzle of honey
Instructions
Add all smoothie ingredients into a blender and add a splash or two of liquid (milk and apple juice.) The less milk, the creamier.
Blend until creamy.
Add toppings to smoothie and dig in with a spoon!
3.2.2885
The BEST Acai Bowl from The Diva Dish
The BEST Acai Bowl from The Diva Dish
Would I trade this acai bowl for a box full of breadsticks now a days? I mean...No, but I love bread sticks so...halfsies?
*My kids request donuts often, and I love baked donuts that I can make from home as a healthier alternative! These are made with pancake mix, so half the work is already done for you! Enjoy these Healthy Baked Chocolate Chip Donuts with your kids anytime without the sugar overload!* **************************************************************************
We live somewhat close to a donut shop, and every so often on a Saturday we will walk over with the kids and get them their favorite chocolate donuts! There is also a green juice place next door, so usually I'll grab my breakfast there and then stare them down with jealousy as they eat.
It's a wonderful family tradition.
I've made quite a few baked donuts at home, but I always seem to have a problem with the texture. Especially if I have used bananas in the batter, then I just feel like I'm eating a circle sized banana bread. But lately I've been baking with pancake batter, and for some reason the texture has been just perfect!
Light, airy, but still cake like. All that's missing is a rich chocolate frosting with 1/4 cup of chocolate sprinkles on each donut.
Even better, these things bake up in a little over 10 minutes, and you don't have to wait in a long line only to find out the parent in front of you took the last chocolate donut that would have belonged to your 4 year old. Thank goodness for a game of rock, paper, scissors with your husband to see who has to relay the message to her...#firstworldtoddlerproblems
Speaking of my husband, he ONLY eats glazed donuts. I just. I can't. It's all about the cake donut my friends. Am I right?
Healthy Baked Chocolate Chip Donuts from The Diva Dish
Also, I've talked about my love for Kodiak Cakes before, and I swear they aren't paying me to say this, but they have been my favorite pancake mix to use! I just LOVE the ingredients, so if you haven't ever tried it, definitely do so!
And while you are at it, drizzle some good quality melted chocolate over the top of your donuts. When the chocolate hardens on the soft donut it's OH SO GOOD!
*Need a quick snack for your hungry littles, or even yourself? This Walnut Berry Smoothie is the perfect treat to keep those bellies full!*
I've discovered over the past month that there is not only ONE but TWO places near my house that make Acai bowls. You know those smoothie bowls topped with fresh fruit, granola, and a drizzle of honey?
I've been back and forth to both locations because I don't want to embarrass myself with how many acai bowls I'm really eating. Gosh dang...They are just so good.
Walnut Berry Protein Smoothie from The Diva Dish
Unfortunately a regular bowl is just shy under TEN DOLLARS, and after 4 visits in a week your husband will start to question your insanity. I've tried to make my own acai bowl at home, especially since I used to make them in high school when I worked at a smoothie place...I'm like a pro.
But by the time I go to the grocery store to buy the acai, my kids all of the sudden act like a pack of wild kangaroos raised them, I forgot my list at home, and the store feels like it's 115 inside and I begin to sweat profusely. And then I'm pregnant, so that basically means my mind is a bowl of spaghetti.
NOW do you see husband?!?
Walnut Berry Protein Smoothie from The Diva Dish
SO, I've been trying to make my own versions at home using what I have on hand LIKE A RESPONSIBLE ADULT...and I recently found a combination that I LOVE.
Smoothies are such a staple in my household, we are basically addicted to them. They are just so quick and you can add whatever you want depending on how you are feeling.
In this case, my girls asked for a pink smoothie, so I did my best and aimed to please.
Walnut Berry Protein Smoothie from The Diva Dish
Sadly it was purple and they were pissed.
Thank goodness for Princess Sofia the First and her purple obsession!
Walnut Berry Protein Smoothie from The Diva Dish
Walnut Berry Protein Smoothie
Ingredients
1 c. almond milk, unsweetened
1/3 c. yogurt of choice, I used plain greek yogurt for more protein
1/4 c. frozen strawberries
1/4 c. frozen blueberries
1/4 c. frozen raspberries
1/4 c. frozen dark sweet cherries
1 heaping TB. walnuts
1 heaping TB. chia seeds
1 TB. honey
1/2 c. ice
Instructions
Add all ingredients into a blender and blend until creamy.
Serve immediately.
Optional: Top with your favorite toppings, like fresh fruit, granola, and a drizzle of honey!
Serves 2 littles and one mama (For a snack)
3.2.2885
Walnut Berry Protein Smoothie from The Diva Dish
Walnut Berry Protein Smoothie from The Diva Dish
Walnut Berry Protein Smoothie from The Diva Dish
This is great as an afternoon snack, bedtime snack, or 'I just need a snack'. You can definitely make this to be like an acai bowl and top with your favorite granola, fruit, and honey! But if your like me, you forgot the granola along with the acai...
We are re-doing our downstairs in our home!! :) (Yes, we are having a baby in two weeks lol!) I know this isn't a DIY blog, but who doesn't love before and afters right?!
We don't have the after just yet, but I do have really crappy before pictures!
I'm always trying to get creative with food for my girls, but with the least effort possible. That's ok right?
Morning rolls around and frankly, I'm just not in the mood to be creative. I stayed up way too late the night before watching The Bachelor and Google-ing things like, "How come I'm so hormonal at 36 weeks pregnant?"
Then the sun rises and I hear the little pitter patter of feet come to the side of my bed and little tiny voices saying, "Mom...Mom...Can we watch Princess Videos on your phone?"
Yes babies. Until 10:30, then wake Mommy up my sweethearts.
I love morning time with my girls, but as they get older I'm seeing how our morning routines are getting shorter and ending quicker. What used to be roll out of bed and watch Mickey has turned into...Run down stairs and eat, grab your clothes and let's head to school. (And not be late again for the 56th time.)
As hard as some days are, I can't help but get emotional (no seriously, I can't help it) knowing that the first thing they want in the morning is to come and see me. Or my phone.
But let's just go with me.
So we've been trying new things for breakfast, and not turning it into such a ho-hum, let's go rush to school kind of morning. Making it just a little more special than a smoothie or a quick bowl of cereal, but still the same amount of time!
And this breakfast can be made at 6 a.m. when the sunrises, or at 10:30 when your kids have watched 3 movies and let you sleep in...
It taste delicious no matter what time it is!
Breakfast Ice Cream
Ingredients
1 c. plain greek yogurt
Honey to taste
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Toppings of choice
Instructions
In a bowl, mix together yogurt and honey to taste. (It all depends on how sweet you like it.)
Using an ice cube tray, add yogurt to individual cubes.
Freeze yogurt cubes for at least two hours or until frozen. (Overnight is perfect, so that way it's ready in the morning.)
When ready, add yogurt to a food processor or blender, plus vanilla.
Turn on the machine and let the yogurt come to ice cream consistency. If needed add a few splashes of milk. (Careful, too much milk will make it not so thick.)
Eat immediately, or store in an air tight container in the freezer until ready to eat. (If you store the ice cream in the freezer, allow it to thaw a few minutes before eating.)
Top with your favorite breakfast toppings and enjoy!!
What I love about this breakfast is that it's full of protein, naturally sweetened, and it makes for a sweet and unexpected treat in the morning. You can dress it up any way you like, even with colorful sprinkles!
To make this quick in the morning, freeze the cubes the night before so all you have to do is pop it in a food processor or blender in the morning and you are ready to go!
I swear, Greek yogurt is one of my favorite foods right now! It's just so versatile, and you can create so many fun recipes with it! Not to mention it's full of amazing benefits, including protein, which is sometimes hard to get kids to eat enough of!
When my oldest started going to preschool, one of the things I was most excited about was packing her lunch.
And maybe the break too.
Toddler School Lunch Ideas, The Diva Dish
I loved the idea of packing her food that she would be excited about and all the other kids would be...I don't want to say jealous, but I kind of want to say jealous.
Her first year of preschool when she initially started I remember going ALL out. Like cutting things in shapes, making themed lunches, and putting a lot of effort into her lunch.
But then my youngest at the time was becoming more needy, life became more busy, and I just became too tired.
Toddler School Lunch Ideas, The Diva Dish
(Sidenote: Isn't she the most beautiful think ever? We are in trouble.)
After that I had to have a realization with myself that her lunches didn't have to be fancy/time consuming (or PIN worthy), but they could still be quick, simple, healthy, and toddler approved.
Fast forward to now I'm a busy mom of two with one on the way, which technically makes me a lot slower. I have a hard working husband and bags under my eyes.
Most likely I haven't prepared anything the night before, and we are running late because a certain someone refuses to change out of the Elsa pajamas.
So lunch prep has to be quick.
Toddler School Lunch Ideas, The Diva Dish
Here is my lunch DISCLAIMER :) :
My oldest is SUPER picky, so I try to appeal to her taste/preferences when she has lunch at school because I'm not there to monitor how much/what she eats.
I try to add one new thing a week, just letting her slowly try different foods.
Her lunches don't always have vegetables. It all depends on what I have on hand, and if I don't pack a veggie she likes, then I will make sure to incorporate veggies later on that day. (Snack/dinner time.)
I pack sweets. Some are homemade, and some aren't. She LOVES chocolate/which chocolate chips, so that's usually her 'treat'.
Here are 12 lunches that I prepared at the start of this school year. Again, nothing fancy. Just simple/quick/healthy/toddler approved.
5- Dehydrated Snap Peas, Shredded Chicken, Salad w/ tomatoes and croutons, Blueberries, White Chocolate Chips. (My daughter LOVES salad!)
Toddler School Lunch Ideas, The Diva Dish
6-Apples, Blueberries, Sun Chips, Bagel w/ PB +Honey+ Cream Cheese + Cinnamon, Tomato slices, White Chocolate Chips
Toddler School Lunch Ideas, The Diva Dish
7- (Halloween Theme), Peanut Butter Spider Crackers, Tortilla chips, Bat cheese, Blueberries, Candy Corn, White Chocolate Chips, Carrots + Dip. (I wanted to use guacamole but my avocados were bad when I opened them!)
What do you pack your kids for lunch? This coming fall I'll be making two lunches, I'll definitely have to post more of those experiences because my girls have WAY different food preferences :)!
It's not December is it? Because my girls are still wearing their Halloween Costumes, and I think my husband just threw away out our pumpkins last week.
Although, I feel like it is December because we've had treat after treat being dropped off at our house and I've been consuming more than enough peppermint, eggnog, and gingerbread sugary treats.
I've learned that being pregnant in December is just cruel, because you already have food aversions to healthy foods, and carbs and sweets are the ONLY thing that sounds good. Throw in the cold weather, which equals sweat pants and oversized sweaters and well...
HOLY CRAP. I now have a baby bump in the front....
And in the trunk.
Fast forward to cinnamon rolls.
My daughter and I have this cooking bond, which is my most favorite thing in the whole wide world. She will watch cooking shows, look at food pictures, and be right beside me in the kitchen.
Lately her and I have been recording every episode of The Pioneer Woman. Boo loves her show the most, and I think because a lot of her food looks.so.good!
That and she has horses, dogs, a farm, and usually dessert ready to eat when desired. Every 4 year olds dream right?!
And mine.
During one episode she made these delicious orange rolls that seemed SO easy to make. I loved how she made everything in a pot, and I could let the dough sit in the fridge for two days and pull it out when we needed.
Of coarse her rolls are amazingly delicious as is, but I decided I wanted to play around with the ingredients to see if I could make them using coconut oil and sugar.
I've made cinnamon rolls before using those ingredients, so I was excited to try this version with a citrus twist! I think cinnamon rolls are the perfect Christmas morning breakfast, and Orange rolls seem even better!
My little helper. She snacked on blueberries while spreading the marmalade. And by snacked I mean ate the entire thing.
She's currently at a pack a day. I'm worried.
One thing I've always done with cinnamon rolls is cut them using dental floss. It's something my high school boyfriends mom taught me. (HI!!) She was a great cook, and I would often try and help her in the kitchen.
Then we would all joke how I was a horrible cook.
And now I have a food blog.
The great thing about these rolls is that the dough can sit in the fridge for at least a day or two, so if you want fresh warm rolls in the morning, you don't have to start the rising process at 3 a.m. All it requires is about an hour of rising, so now you can start at 5 am. (Because who sleeps in on Christmas morning?!)
Oh yea, my husband.
Ba Humbug.
I'm so glad that Christmas morning is only two weeks away, because I don't think I can wait any longer to have something sweet!
Oh wait...Is that the doorbell?
Orange Rolls
Adapted from The Pioneer Woman's Orange Rolls
Ingredients
2 c. full fat coconut milk, regular milk, or milk of choice
1/2 c. coconut oil
1/2 c. coconut sugar or maple sugar
1 pkg. active dry yeast
4 cups, plus 1/2 c. extra reserved, flour. (You can do half whole wheat half all purpose)
1/2 tsp. heaping baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 TB. salt
Melted coconut oil for the inside
coconut sugar for the inside
orange marmalade (a natural brand)
cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves for the inside
sprinkle of salt for the inside
Instructions
To make the dough:
In a pot over the stove, heat milk, oil, and sugar.
Whisk together and heat just until the mixture begins to boil. Then remove from heat and let cool until the mixture reaches 110 degrees. I use a candy thermometer.
When it's cooled down so it's warm but not hot, sprinkle the yeast over the top.
Let it sit for a few minutes.
Then add in the four cups of flour, and stir together with a wooden spoon. Be careful not to over mix too much.
Let the lid sit on top of the pot in a warm place and let it rise for at least an hour. You want it to almost double.
Once that happens, then add in the remaining 1/2 flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir together.
You can make the rolls immediately, or cover and put in the fridge for the next morning, or a day or two later.
When you are ready to make the rolls, get the dough out of the fridge and roll it into a large rectangular shape.
Spread a layer of orange marmalade over top the dough, followed by some melted coconut oil to coat the entire surface. Then sprinkle on some coconut sugar, followed by a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves. (I didn't measure, I just kind of sprinkled over the top until it was coated. (Not heavily with spices, but just enough.)
Begin to roll the dough, starting with one side and working your way to the other.
Cut the rolls and place on a baking sheet.
Let the rolls rise for at least an hour. (If the dough isn't cold from the fridge it might not take that long.)
Bake the rolls at 375 for 15-18 minutes, or until desired. (We like ours a little under cooked.)
Top with the glaze or frosting of choice immediately.
For the glaze I used the pioneer woman's recipe, only because my husband insisted, but you can use a healthier recipe by using cream cheese, some honey, orange juice, vanilla, and orange zest!
3.2.1310
For the original recipe go HERE on the Pioneer Womans site.
For a healthy frosting recipe, check this out HERE on Naturally Sweet Recipes.
My husband insisted if I was making the rolls 'healthier, (as if I was putting kale in them), he wanted the original frosting. He was in charge of pouring it on and well...they were swimming in it.
I removed the rolls onto a separate tray so they didn't become soft little pillows of sugar. Although, that sounds good.
I promise I'll post a non-sweet recipe next time. Something with kale. :)
Who doesn't love pancakes in the morning?! What if we turned them into Mini Pancake Muffins perfect for those little hands! (And not to mention, perfect to eat when time is short!) Keep reading for the recipe!
*********************************************************************************************************
I've never understood people that don't eat breakfast, or aren't very hungry in the morning. I feel like they can't be trusted...
IMG_9327
I go to bed thinking about what I'm going to have for breakfast, I wake up in the middle of the night wanting that breakfast, and I get up in the morning rushing to go eat that breakfast. Almost before I do anything, like put my glasses on. Or get my children out of their bed.
Luckily for me, my girls are just as excited about breakfast, and usually remind me at 6 in the morning it's time to get up RIGHT THIS SECOND and make it for them because they might pass out of starvation.
IMG_9331
My four year is the most particular about the foods she eats, so I usually get asked every morning if she can have Cheerios, water, and five pounds of blueberries. As easy as it is to sometimes let her get her way, I'm trying my best to offer her different suggestions. (And let's be honest, blueberries aren't cheap when you buy them by the pounds...)
I usually can do pancakes with her, but not waffles. Unless I lie and tell her it's a pancake, then I'm in the clear. But don't add blueberries to the batter because she will react as if you cut off all her hair in the middle of the night while she was sleeping. Dramatic? No, total reality. She definitely doesn't get it from me...
IMG_9346
So I took a big leap of faith and decided to make muffins out of pancake batter. I thought it would be fun to make them bite because for some reason kids LOVE mini foods! I added a few chocolate chips on top, which was a risk, but it definitely went over well. I also thought about making these banana muffins, which you could do, but I bought 47 cans at the beginning of pumpkin season so I'm trying my best to use those up!
Oh boy...these were good!
IMG_9339
My girls dipped theirs in pure maple syrup, but you could definitely drizzle it on top as well! Even adding a little melted butter or coconut oil on top would be heavenly!
These, my friends are 4 year old dramatic princess approved!
IMG_9341
Mini Pancake Muffins (Pumpkin)
Ingredients
2 c. pancake mix, I used kodiak cakes protein pancakes because they have the best ingredients
1 c. milk of choice
1 chia egg=1 TB. chia seeds mixed w/ 3 TB. cold water. (let sit for 5 minutes.) OR one egg
1/2 c. coconut sugar
1/4 c. melted coconut oil
1 c. pumpkin puree-Can sub mashed banana
1 TB. pumpkin pie spice
1 TB. pure vanilla extract
Chocolate chips to top muffins with
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and whisk until combined. (Leave out the chocolate chips.)
Spray a mini muffin pan with oil, or use mini muffin liners. Add batter to the pan, filling about 3/4 full. Top with a few chocolate chips.
Bake in the oven at 350 for 18-20 minutes, or until they are done.
*If using an egg, these may cook faster than if using a chia egg, so watch muffins carefully!)
3.2.1310
IMG_9343
IMG_9345
Just looking at these muffins makes me hungry for 2nd breakfast!
Wait, what? You don't have 2nd breakfasts? Oh...It must be a 29 weeks pregnant thing than right?
With the holidays approaching, that means a lot of family will be staying together and spending lots of time with each other! So I love the idea of having an Overnight Baked French Toast ready in the morning for everyone to enjoy together!
Unless being around a lot of family is overwhelming and you are perfectly fine waking up at 445 to eat a bowl of cereal quietly to yourself with no one disturbing you...I've never done that.
IMG_9213
Speaking of family, my parents came for the weekend! (You aren't overwhelming mom, I promise!) They cleaned my house, fixed things here and there, hung pictures, washed and folded my laundry, gave us food, and babysat my kids. I just sat all weekend, it was lovely.
My parents always leave my house so exhausted, I don't understand..
IMG_9243
I wanted to do something nice for them, since I basically turned everything over to them, and the one (only?) way I know how to say thank you is through food. I wanted to have homemade cake, muffins, dinner ready, and fresh bread on the counter for when they got here. But I forgot how much energy it takes for me to find the flour in my pantry and I had to go with plan B.
Breakfast.
IMG_9215
I didn't want to be slaving over a hot stove making pancakes for everyone, because no one gets to eat together, especially the one 'slaving' :). So I love the idea of baked french toast, because it's ready all at once and we can all enjoy it together!
Speaking of love, have you tried this vanilla paste? I swear it has changed the way my baked goods taste! Can I drink it? No, because it's like $15 a bottle and I wouldn't want to waste it...
IMG_9221
IMG_9217
You can also change up the flavors and make it however you and your family would like, especially the syrup! Homemade syrups are the best!
And while everyone is happily enjoying your homemade breakfast, you can sneak away and go back to bed and no one will know. Unless your 4 year old finds you...
Busted!
IMG_9219
IMG_9223
Hint of Coconut Overnight French Toast
Ingredients
1 loaf whole wheat french bread, cinnamon french bread, etc. (Stale is good!)
1 can coconut milk
3/4 c. buttermilk (non dairy if needed, add 1 tsp. vinegar to non dairy milk)
3/4 c. milk (non dairy if needed)
6 eggs
3 egg whites
1 TB. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
2 TB. vanilla extract
1.4 c. coconut sugar or honey
1/2 c. unsweetened coconut
Instructions
Tear apart bread and place into a greased 9x13 baking dish.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients until combined. Pour liquid over the bread cubes, and toss just a little bit to make sure all of the bread is coated.
Cover and place in the fridge overnight to make in the morning. (I left mine in for two days, and it still turned out fine!)
When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350 and bake un-covered for about 30-35 minutes.
Serve warm with a drizzle of melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and more coconut!
3.2.1310
IMG_9228
IMG_9225
IMG_9233
Do you have a favorite holiday breakfast? Share with me in the comments below, I would love to hear your family traditions!
*This is probably one of my families favorite meals to eat, and my favorite meal to make. Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes & Artichokes. It's the easiest thing to throw together on a busy weeknight, and it's great dish when you have to bring meals to others!*
When Boo was first born, I will never forget all of the emotions I was experiencing. Scared, excited, overjoyed, blessed, freaking out, worried, emotional, irrational, tired, delirious, thirsty, and hungry.
And probably 456 other emotions that I can't remember...
Oh yea, memory loss.
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes & Artichokes, via The Diva Dish. Easy dish for a weeknight, and perfect to bring to others when making dinner for them!
When Boo was about two weeks old, and all of the family had headed back home, I remember feeling like "Oh my gosh...what do I do? How do I take care of her? What if she coughs? How come I can't hold my pee when I laugh? Also, I am I seeing things or am I just tired?"
My husband was deep in the middle of finals for grad school and I was scared out of my mind every time he left that morning for school. I knew it would be at least 10 hours before I saw him, and probably 6 hours before I talked to him. I was eating random things here and there, and drinking straight from a bottle of cranberry juice...
It was kind of...a beautiful mess. (So to speak.)
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes & Artichokes, via The Diva Dish. Easy dish for a weeknight, and perfect to bring to others when making dinner for them!
I was fully in love with my little new born, but hadn't quite figured out how to live life as a new mom. I felt alone a lot, but at the same time so comforted knowing that she was always with me.
Then one night when my husband was studying late at school, there was a knock on my apartment door. I opened the door to find a lady and her young daughter smiling so big with handfuls of food. I knew this lady just a little bit from church, and had maybe talked to her once. She had just moved to our area after going through a horrible experience in her life and had ended up living in our apartment complex.
She stood there with this hot pasta dish, bread, a huge salad, and a delicious homemade strawberry pie.
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes & Artichokes, via The Diva Dish. Easy dish for a weeknight, and perfect to bring to others when making dinner for them!
I'm pretty sure I balled my eyes out (and tried not to pee my pants) as she told me she had brought our family dinner because she knew the joys and stresses of being a new mom. As they held sweet Boo in their arms, all I could think about was how in that moment I wasn't alone, and there was someone watching out for me. And even despite what this beautiful woman was going through, she had found the time to serve someone else, and help someone in need.
I'll never forget that experience, and to this day I can still taste that strawberry pie.
At the beginning of this month, my girls and I made a goal to bring someone food every week. Not always a full meal, maybe some homemade bread or fresh cookies. For me, food is such a comfort, and I love sharing that with others.
This pasta dish has been one of my tried and true recipes from time to time as I've brought dinners to others. It's SO easy, which is kind of a necessity if you are making dinner for not only YOUR family but someone else's.
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes & Artichokes, via The Diva Dish. Easy dish for a weeknight, and perfect to bring to others when making dinner for them!
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes & Artichokes
This dish is SUPER simple and can come together quickly when you need a quick weeknight dinner! Also, it's the perfect dish to deliver to other families!
Ingredients
1 pound, or a little more, pasta of choice. (The recipe works best with a tortellini pasta filled with cheese.)
1-1 1/2 c. pesto, jarred or fresh (or 1 jar.)
1-2 cups sundried tomatoes, we prefer more :)
1-1 1/2 c. chopped canned artichokes
1-2 cups shredded chicken
8 oz mozzarella pears
Instructions
Cook pasta according to package directions.
Strain pasta and place in a large bowl. Add the pesto, tomatoes, artichokes, and chicken and mix until combined.
Sprinkle the top with the mozzarella pears.
Serve and enjoy!
3.2.1310
IMG_9016
Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes & Artichokes, via The Diva Dish. Easy dish for a weeknight, and perfect to bring to others when making dinner for them!
I'm so grateful for moments like that. Times where I felt comfort even when I was scared.
Also, I'm grateful I don't pee my pants any more. Unless I cough, sneeze, jump on a trampoline, and run...
So so grateful.
Would you guys like to be apart of something amazing?! Join my girls and I bring others a food of comfort one time each week for at least a month! Let's make others feel loved! xoxoxo
We are basically in the fall/holiday season and I'm fully ready to embrace boots and sweaters. I'd also like to sip hot chocolate at the same time, while eating pumpkin & apple pie, with a pumpkin spice candle burning in my kitchen while listening to Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer.
Also..I'd like it snow.
Unfortunately my kids are still pant-less and wearing T-shirts around the house, and my air condition is on full speed. And the larger I get, the more I desperately want to wear oversized comfy clothes, but I sweat like a sinner in church...
Would this be considered complaining?
(Side note: I just love that little face!)
But of coarse I have so much to be grateful for, and this afternoon when my little peanut woke up from her nap I decided we would do our best to bring the Fall season to us. And since it's the season of..giving? (Isn't is always?) We decided that sharing a piece of Fall with someone else would be best!
This pumpkin bread is the perfect recipe for when you feel like giving. It makes enough to make one loaf for you and one loaf for someone else.
Or 4 smaller loaves for you and 3 special friends.
Or even muffins for lots of friends if your popular.
You can use canned pumpkin, or if you are feeling creative you can make your own FRESH pumpkin puree! (There is also a really embarrassing video tutorial too! Win win!) I usually try and make a large batch every season and then bathe in it.
HA! I mean, not bathe...BAKE!! Oh my gosh...so awkward.
And of coarse, save the mixer spoon and a few chocolate chips for those little mouths. Leave the bowl for yourself...
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
Ingredients
3 c. white whole wheat flour
1 1/2 c. coconut sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 tsp. ground cloves
1 c. melted coconut oil, cooled
2/3 c. water
4 eggs
2 c. pumpkin puree, canned or fresh
1 tsp. vanilla
1 bag chocolate chips
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and spices. Set the bowl aside.
In a mixing bowl, add the oil, water, eggs, pumpkin, and vanilla. Mix until combined, and then with the mixer on low add in the dry ingredients until combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Grease two large bread pans, and divide the batter between the two.
Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 45-50 minutes. Let the bread COMPLETELY cool in the pans before removing.
Make sure you wrap up the loaf nicely with a sweet note and a burlap ribbon! Then grab your flip flops, sunglasses and 50 SPF as you head out the door to make your delivery...
Also, run the air conditioning in the car so the chocolate chips in the bread don't melt...
Kids Mac n' Cheese! Secret ingredient is CARROT puree to up the nutrients for your kiddos! Recipe from The Diva Dish!
Since the beginning, I've always been a 'food based blog'. I started out as cupcakes, next was just desserts, and then I went healthy. All.Over.The.Place. Right?
I love blogging about food and healthy meal ideas, but recently I've been thinking of ideas of how I want to do more than just blog about food. Obviously food is a huge part of living a healthy lifestyle, but I also believe so many other aspects go into health, and happiness. I want to stretch this blog a little more and focus on the idea of 'health & happiness' as a whole...and not just food.
(Did I repeat myself?)
I haven't fully decided what that means, but I am hoping that over the summer The Diva Dish will be able to find it's voice. Whether that means more of this or that I don't know...But food will always be a big part of this, so don't worry. :)
How many times can I say the word food in this post?
Kids Mac n' Cheese! Secret ingredient is CARROT puree to up the nutrients for your kiddos! Recipe from The Diva Dish!
A small part of that change will be sharing more of a reality as to what my kids really do eat. Pretty recipes and "true stories" can only convince you guys so much right?! I mean...Do my kids REALLY eat healthy? Have they ever even had boxed Mac n Cheese?!
Yes and Yes.
Kids Mac n' Cheese! Secret ingredient is CARROT puree to up the nutrients for your kiddos! Recipe from The Diva Dish!
Sometimes I get worried to post a recipe that has cheese or a high amount of calories because it may not be considered "completely healthy" and then the world will think I'm a FRAUD!! But here right now, I will tell you my kids eat cheese. And some of their meals are probably high in calories...
One important thing I've learned with my kids is that they are growing and their body needs food and it's nutrients to grow. Their body doesn't need fat free, calorie-less foods. They need the fats, proteins, carbs, etc. to help their brains and bones!
Kids Mac n' Cheese! Secret ingredient is CARROT puree to up the nutrients for your kiddos! Recipe from The Diva Dish!
Mac N'Cheese is always a kid favorite, and I'm not going to lie, making it from a box can save a lot of time. But on the days where I have a little more time, I love to make homemade mac! It last us for the next couple of lunches, which is one of the things I love about it!
Switching up the pasta shapes is always fun for kids, but I love adding in orange-colored pureed veggies to really up the nutrients! This dish has carrot puree, which brings out a subtle sweetness to it! And, carrots are orange, fake cheese is kind of orange...soooo....
Win Win!
Kids Mac n' Cheese! Secret ingredient is CARROT puree to up the nutrients for your kiddos! Recipe from The Diva Dish!
Kids Macaroni & Cheese
Ingredients
salt
2 medium carrots, diced
12 ounces pasta of choice
1 TB. butter or coconut oil
1 1/2 TB. flour (can use whole wheat, spelt, all purpose, etc.)
1 tsp. ground mustard powder
1 12 ounce can evaporated milk (or other milk of choice)
2 c. sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 c. mozzarella cheese, shredded
For the Topping (optional)
1 TB. coconut oil
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. tumeric
1/4 c. bread crumbs (fresh)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the carrots until tender.
While the carrots are cooking you can make your topping.
Melt the oil in a pan, then add the rest of the ingredients for the topping. Whisk together for a minute or so then remove from heat and set aside.
Remove the carrots when they are done with a slotted spoon and transfer to a blender.
Add the pasta to that same pot/water. Cook pasta until tender. Reserve 1 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. Add the water to the carrots in the blender.
Puree the carrots until smooth.
In a sauce pan melt your butter/oil on medium heat. Whisk in the flour and mustard powder and continue to whisk for 1 minute.
Then whisk in the evaporated milk and carrot puree until smooth.
Simmer the mixture until it has slightly thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in the cheese until it has melted. Fold in the pasta!
Serve into individual bowls and top with crunchy topping!
3.2.1310
Kids Mac n' Cheese! Secret ingredient is CARROT puree to up the nutrients for your kiddos! Recipe from The Diva Dish!
As for us parents, don't be ashamed to eat a little mac n' cheese! Serve this along side fresh veggies and a large salad and you are great!
Kids Mac n' Cheese! Secret ingredient is CARROT puree to up the nutrients for your kiddos! Recipe from The Diva Dish!
For the record, Carrots > Fake Cheese.
What would you like to see more of on The Diva Dish?! I Would LOVE your input!!
Often times I try and make dinners that can please the whole family, and everyone will enjoy.
That's in a perfect world though...In reality, my husband wants Del Taco, one daughter is screaming for a popsicle, and the other is eating crumbs off the kitchen floor...And I just want to make peanut butter and honey sandwiches for everyone and tell them to suck it up. (And then I'll go out and have myself a nice dinner.)
IMG_8234
Nothing's worse than making this huge dinner to have one person try it, and the rest of the family dabble at it. So glad I spent 45 minutes making dinner for everyone to not eat it.
AM I RIGHT MOMS?!?!
IMG_8212
I've learned that effort is good when making dinner, but going all out crazy just isn't worth it. No matter how many sauces, dips, spreads, spices, and methods I used making that dinner, there is a chance that 50% will eat only a few bites. And then I feel bummed because all the work I put into dinner, so I finish off everyones plate to make up for it.
It's not pretty.
IMG_8202
So when it comes to dinner, I try and think simple. I remember that I have two kids under 3, and a husband that has the flavor palate of a 15 year old. I also usually try to stick with dishes that can easily be adapted for my kiddos. That means that I can take different parts of that dish and serve them separately to my one year old. For example, this pizza.
I made it so I can serve her the chicken separately, along with the corn, and I can make a quesadilla out of the rest of the ingredients.
IMG_8214
The sauce is so easy that it took 2 minutes to make, just the way I like it! It's vibrant and green due to the cilantro and avocado, which goes perfectly for a mexican style pizza! I also added this in my girls quesadillas!
IMG_8218
Let's not forget about the "crust" in this pizza. It's garlic naan bread, which just took a few hours off my dinner prep. On days where I don't have the will or time to make homemade dough, naan bread is the perfect sub. It's fluffy and flavorful, and when you broil it in the oven it has a nice little crunch just like pizza dough would!
IMG_8220
IMG_8221
Then there is my husband and I who have completely two different food preferences. So for my pizza, I opted for no cheese to keep it a little lighter.
But for my husbands pizza, I added a little bit more chicken, lots or cheese, and a few dashes of hot sauce!
After the pizzas are baked, I drizzled cold plain greek yogurt on top, which brings it all together!
IMG_8225
IMG_8227
IMG_8230
Mexican Salad Naan Pizza
Ingredients
For the Pizza
Garlic Naan Bread
Avocado Cilantro Sauce(Recipe to follow)
romain lettuce
Cooked chicken
corn
tomatoes
peppers
cheese
plain greek yogurt
hot sauce
(For the Avocado Cilantro Sauce)
2 small avocados
2 small limes (juice)
1 small bunch cilantro
1/4 c. chopped white onion
1-2 gloves garlic chopped
1/2 tsp. cumin
salt/pepper
Instructions
Make the dressing by combining all of the ingredients into a blender, and blending until creamy. Adjust salt/pepper to preferred taste.
To make the pizza, get the naan bread. Spread the sauce on top of the bread.
Then top with chopped romain, corn, diced tomatoes, diced peppers, cooked chicken, and if desired, cheese.
Turn the oven on HI broil, and cook pizza for about 5 or so minutes, until the naan bread is a little crisp and the cheese is melted.
Drizzle with greek yogurt.
Enjoy!
3.2.1310
IMG_8231
IMG_8232
My husband said this was his favorite dish from me. But he totally says that all the time because I'm such an amazing cook so...
IMG_8237
This is what the girls dinner looked like. It wasn't as colorful, but they enjoyed it! Their quesadillas had cheese and the avocado sauce.
IMG_8238
Don't worry, tomorrow night I WILL serve peanut butter and honey sandwiches.
Here is the deal my friends.... I'm trying reeeeallly hard to post a Footage Friday video every friday. Buuuut, I'm also really trying to focus more on quality than quantity. So if I don't have a video up, it's most likely because I don't have anything I'm super proud of to show you!
It's because I love you guys so much ok?!
And it's also because I have two arms, and somehow have to film, make two kids happy, entertain in a video, and make it work...
I need a 3rd arm, seriously! My life would be ALOT easier :).
So today's video is a recipe for Chocolate Greek Yogurt Popsicles! Yeaaa! It's already too hot for me here in Las Vegas, and It's only going to get hotter...Remind me why I live here again?
I noticed the other day that the bags under my eyes are more noticeable, and my hours of staying up late are now starting to affect me. I guess I think I'm 19 and in college...
Except in college I slept in, never cleaned, took long showers, and used my brain.
Now, at 25 I don't sleep ever, I clean constantly, shower...HA..., and I just sent my mom a mother's day card and addressed it to MY current address.
IMG_7232
IMG_7565
The funny thing is, as I lie in bed at night asking my husband if I locked the doors and turned on the alarm for the 56th time, I know that I wouldn't trade any of it.
I wouldn't trade the sleepless nights, rocking my baby till she finally falls asleep. I'm still so grateful even when my girls are fighting over a fork. Although, thank goodness my friends at EllieLyn sent the girls and I matching necklaces...
And I love every moment of changing them in different princess dresses 108 times a day. I wouldn't trade it. Ever.
IMG_7573
Thank you Boo and Sweet Pea for making me tired, because I wouldn't have it any other way!
And thank you for giving me a reason to make chocolate chip cookies, and for being there to eat them with me first thing in the morning. THAT I would never change :).
IMG_7539
IMG_7540
Peanut Butter Banana Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
2 c. + 2 TB. spelt flour, whole wheat pastry flour, or all purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
dash of salt
1/2 c. melted coconut oil, cooled
6 TB. melted peanut butter, cooled
1 c. coconut sugar
1 TB. vanilla
1 egg yolk
2 small ripe bananas
1 1/4 c. dark chocolate chopped
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In a small bowl, whisk together dry ingredients and set aside.
In another bowl whisk together oil and peanut butter. Add in coconut sugar and vanilla, and whisk together.
Whisk in the egg yolk and bananas until combined.
Add dry ingredients to wet, and mix together until combined. The batter will be thick and oily. Fold in the chocolate.
Scoop cookies onto prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10-11 minutes. Allow to cool on baking sheet for a few minutes, then remove onto cooling rack!
Enjoy!
3.2.1310
The original recipe for these cookies was made by Jessica at How Sweet It Is! I only changed a few things, so check out her cookies too! They look amazing!
IMG_7545
IMG_7546
IMG_7548
Now...Let's hurry up and go to bed! Because first thing tomorrow morning, we eat cookies!
There was a time when I went to Costco and bought a large sack of grapefruit because I was determined to loose 15 pounds.
I planned out my morning to where I'd eat that grapefruit cut in half and eat it with a silver spoon, and watch my metabolism kick start and burn that fat away. The very first morning I tried it, I took a bite of that grapefruit and thought...
&%#$
That's disgusting.
Then I read you could sprinkle a little sugar on top to take away the tartness. So I tried that.
A sprinkle on top turned into a spoonful of sugar with each bite, and well the only thing that kick started that morning was my attention span.
IMG_7421
Sure, most people enjoy grapefruit in the morning. It's tart but sweet, and the perfect way to start the day. I look at it as, it's like drinking straight lime juice and 13 minutes later I'm completely starving. It just doesn't work for me. But I can eat an entire watermelon and feel completely full till noon. Oddly enough, my favorite green juice taste like a grapefruit, and this new recipe I'm about to introduce has a hint of grapefruit as well. Also, this grapefruit cake most likely taste incredible...
IMG_7429
But if there is one thing I've learned in living a healthy lifestyle, it's that food that is healthy needs a partner. Like Kale. You wouldn't eat kale plain would you? I mean some of you might, that's ok...(no it's not.) But if you massage the kale with lemon juice, salt, and pepper and then roast it, it's delicious!
Same thing goes for grapefruit. Pair it with a friendlier (and sweeter) citrus, along with the sweetness from the honey and the banana. Followed by the cream from a coconut (or greek yogurt), and next thing you know you are telling Orange Julius "Buh Bye!"
IMG_7431
And now you have a reason to enjoy that 20 pound bag of grapefruit that you got from Costco...
You.Are. SOO.Welcome.
IMG_7436
Citrus Creamsicle Milkshake/Smoothie
Prep time:
5 mins
Total time:
5 mins
Serves:
1-2
Ingredients
2 grapefruits
1 orange
1/2 frozen banana
1 tsp-1 TB. raw honey
1/4 c. coconut cream(milk), or greek yogurt
ice
Instructions
Juice the citrus. Reserve 1/2 c. of the juice for the drink, and save the rest for drinking, smoothies, etc.
Add the ingredients into a blender and blend until creamy.
Sometimes the simplest things in life are incredibly complicated.
Like shoes. Simple right? No...All wrong.
"Go put your shoes on. Which ones? Which ever you like. Ok, I take that back, you can't wear those. Why? Because they are mine. Don't throw them at me! Go get your shoes! I dunno, how about the pink ones? What do you mean you think they are UGLY? Here, put these on. Come here. Come here. Come here now. Please. GET OVER HERE! Don't throw! Oh my gosh! Hey! Hold still for 5 seconds! See, now your sister thinks it's funny and she's taking her shoes off! Fine. Wear mine, I don't care anymore."
Some days shoes are complicated. Somedays socks are.
And somedays, breakfast, lunch, snacks, or maybe even dinner need to be down right SIMPLE.
Simple enough to where your brain doesn't have to think too much because it's still seeing stars from a pair of Steve Maddens to the face. Simple enough to where your kitchen isn't turned upside down trying to make a healthy dinner, while your kids listen to "Let It Go" on replay 456 times and mess up the rest of the house. Simple enough that dinner is done in less than 5 minutes. AND SIMPLE ENOUGH to where mommy isn't too full enough to scarf down a handful of chocolate in the laundry room to avoid sharing.
Just plain ol'simple.
No matter the combination on your toast, just make sure it is...You know.
Whether it's peanut butter, strawberries & honey...Or melted coconut oil, honey, and cinnamon. Toast, spread, eat, and say "ahhhhh...."
At the end of it all, maybe we could all realize that life doesn't have to be SO complicated. Maybe certain things CAN be simple.
Let's talk about this issue I have with our rental house. (You probably thought I was going to say I had an issue with my chipped nail polish. Sadly...No.)
IMG_7029
So for some reason, our precious little rental has carpet in the kitchen/dinning room. Fine. Whatever.
Unfortunately I have this one year old I like to call DESTRUCTABLE/DESTROY EVERYTHING IN SIGHT/GET INTO EVERYTHING/THERE ARE STAINS EVERYWHERE BECAUSE OF ...this one year old. For example, this morning I was trying to fix our curtains that happened to fall and almost land on my head when I moved them. (Ahem. Husband.) As I was doing this, my one year old found my nail polish (the pretty chipped one I'm wearing), and thought she needed to paint her toes.
Now there are nail polish foot prints and stains through out the kitchen/dinning room carpet. It's lovely. Right next to it is a blue paint stain that my three year old made. Then right next to that is my brown couch that has blue marker written all over the cushions. Like I said, lovely.
I highly doubt we will get our deposit back.
IMG_7035
After living in our rental for over a year now, I finally decided food and art projects should probably take place out side. I know...I FINALLY decided that? What took so long Ari? Did my house have to look like a Crayola Box exploded before I did something?
Recently, I was sent these adorable girly bibs from JJ Cole to review, and the girls and I decided to make some ice cream and test them out. These bibs will soon be released at BuyBuyBaby.com, so look out for them! I figured the girls would eat the ice cream like they normally do, dripping everywhere/all over their face...But just my luck they ate the ice cream as clean as I've ever seen them. But I did love the bibs because they were wide enough to wear it covered all of their top. And any ice cream that did drip, I just wiped right off!
For the record, it took a good 10 minutes to stop the girls from fighting over the bib that had a little more pink than the others.
IMG_7044
The ice cream the girls ate was avocado based, which is a great healthy fat for kids! (Great for brain growth!) It doesn't have any avocado flavoring to it, so need to worry about a guacamole flavored ice cream :)! The mix ins are so versatile, you could pair it with almost anything. An added bonus is the creamy-ness that the avocado adds, which gives it the perfect ice cream texture!
Blend ingredients in a food processor or blender until creamy. If needed add a little milk to make it blend easier.
Eat immediately or store in a closed container to let it harden a little. It will be perfect for an ice cream cone after it's hardened for at least 30 minutes!
Enjoy!
3.2.1255
IMG_7063
I'm thinking I should probably pay someone to professionally clean my carpets, or I could just buy a cute rug to place over the top?
Or...I could just watch my kids more closely...
* A special thanks to Michelle for sending my girls and I these cute samples of JJCole bibs! I was not paid to write this review, just asked to express my opinion. These bibs will be available at BuyBuyBaby.com, so if you love them, check them out! Thanks again!*
