Breakfast Ice Cream!

January 12, 2015 Arielle

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!!

Made with Love using Chobani :).

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!

Cheers to Ice Cream for Breakfast!

Preschool Lunch Ideas

January 7, 2015 Arielle

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.

(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.

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.

1- Grapes, Carrots + Dip, White Chocolate Chips, Nut mix, PB + J Sandwiches

2-Sunflower seeds, Hummus Sandwich, Grapes, Raspberries, Fig Bar, Blueberry Greek Yogurt

3- Turkey, Mozzarella Cheese, Baby Tomatoes, Crackers, Berries, White Chocolate Chips

4- Grapes, PB+Honey+Banana+Cinnamon Sandwich, Shredded Mozz. Cheese, Carrots + Dip

5- Dehydrated Snap Peas, Shredded Chicken, Salad w/ tomatoes and croutons, Blueberries, White Chocolate Chips. (My daughter LOVES salad!)

6-Apples, Blueberries, Sun Chips, Bagel w/ PB +Honey+ Cream Cheese + Cinnamon, Tomato slices, White Chocolate Chips

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!)

8- Cute Oranges, Homemade Biscuit Turkey + Cheese Sandwich, Carrots, Dehydrated Snap Peas, Craisins, Sugar Cookie

9- Dehydrated Snap Peas, Hazelnut Butter, White Chocolate Chips, Cutie Oranges, Turkey

10- Blueberries, Plain Greek Yogurt + Honey, Chocolate Chips, Dehydrated Snap Peas, Pretzel Sticks, Cucumbers +Dip

11- Blueberries, Shredded Chicken, Chocolate Chips, Ants on A Log, Pretzels

12- Berries, Chocolate Chip Cookie, Cream Cheese + Crackers, Applesauce

Like I said, nothing fancy :)!

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 :)!

Healthy Banilla Peanut Butter Milkshake

January 2, 2015 Arielle

I don't know about you guys, but this is kind of how I feel after the holidays...

Tired, chocolate all over my face, hair in a bun because I've been doing lots of "relaxing"...

It's not pretty.

I know in years past I've written out a few things I learned the previous year, and goals that I wished to accomplish the following year. But I won't do that today.

Because I'm really bad at deadlines and goals.

And because I said I was working on a breakfast e-book last May, and I hoped to have it done by the start of the school year 2014.

And It's not done. Not even close.

I actually didn't make a 'list' of goals for this year because If there is anything the year 2014 taught me it's that things happen, and plans go out the window, and most likely we won't be prepared for things to come.

How's that for motivation?

Let's cut the Debby Downer crap and say even though this was a 'harder' year for me (and maybe some of you too), I was tremendously blessed and I think I may have turned into a grown up.

Almost.

Bachelor starts Monday, so there's that.

SO whatever this year may bring, I say Bring It On! If there is ONE thing I've learned this year it's that no matter what, things will be ok and work out for the best.

Unless of coarse there really is a chocolate shortage like everyone is talking about, then by all means START FREAKING OUT!

And don't forget to drink a lot of milkshakes. Healthy ones and some not so healthy ones ;)!

Healthy Banilla Peanut Butter Milkshake

Vegan, Diary Free, GF, Healthy

Ingredients

1 large banana cut into slices and frozen
1 spoonful of natural peanut butter
2 tsp. good quality vanilla extract, or vanilla bean paste
dash of salt
a few splashes of non dairy milk

Instructions

Add all ingredients in a blender and blend until nice and creamy!
Sip through a straw or eat with a spoon! Enjoy!

I promise I'm going to start working hard on that e-book! I already have TEN recipes, but I really want to have at least 25. So if there are any special breakfast request, let me know! The goal for this book is quick, healthy, easy, kid friendly, and of coarse delish! :)

P.S.

I also swear I'm going to work on painting my nails more often. #nomorechippednailpolish

P.P.S

Im having a baby in like a month or so?! AHHHH! I can't wait to kiss that little baby's face!

Spinach Artichoke Dip

December 20, 2014 Arielle

Excuse me if this post doesn't make any sense. That Frozen movie is on in the background, and well, I'm repeating line for line in my head along with trying to type this up. Do you wanna build an artichoke dip?

Protein Packed, Veggie Full, Kid Approved Spinach Artichoke Dip (Made Healthier!) From The Diva Dish, http://thediva-dish.com

Where was I?

If you are new here to The Diva Dish I'll fill you in a quick bit on my family. I have two little daughters, who some how have become WAY smarter and sassier than I ever could be. I love them so much it hurts! I also have another daughter on the way this February!! I'm married to the hardest working babe I know, and he could eat every single day of his life LOVES McDonalds.

And...This is a healthy lifestyle blog.

I get a lot of emails and comments from parents who feel like they don't know what to do because their little one "just won't eat healthy", or "only loves macaroni and cheese!" They wonder how on earth I do it, and why I am so lucky to have kids who love vegetables and are disgusted from fried food and cheesy noodles.

All I have to say is...

Dang! I must be a good liar! ;)

I'm here to break the news to you my friends....My kids are NOT good eaters.

Their picky-ness and my desire to raise my family living a healthy lifestyle is why I started this blog in the first place. I knew that there were others out there struggling with the same issues I was, and I wanted to share my successes and well..my fails.

So here's the deal, Let it go. OMG, sorry...Frozen.

But seriously, I've learned to ease up a little. If I stress and cry and force feed, it never ends pretty. If I spend 75 minutes making this healthy incredibly stressful dinner, I most likely will have each child take two or three bites and then they are done. SO I keep it simple.

I've made a wide range of food for them, but I've paid close attention to which types of 'foods' and healthier foods they prefer/enjoy.

For example, my oldest doesn't like things too salty, too sweet, mushed together, or funny looking. My youngest is the opposite. She likes flavors and will try almost anything. But she eats like a bird, so when I feed her I try and make sure it's filling and full of fats/proteins/etc.

Doing that has allowed me to play with their food preferences and make some of the food they love and prefer a little healthier.

So WHY artichoke dip?

A while back we were eating at a restaurant with family when someone ordered spinach artichoke dip as an appetizer. When it came I joked with my 4 year old (the flavor/mushed together food hater) if she wanted to try some. She shockingly did, and ate bite after bite.

Now here's the deal.

Spinach artichoke dip at restaurants are most likely not healthy. There is probably a lot of butter, cream, unhealthier fats, and lots of cheese stuffed in there. So do I stop her from eating it?

NO.

She's not on a diet. She's a growing girl, and a picky eater. Are some fats and a lot of butter going to just RUIN her? Of coarse not.

I think we tend to get too 'healthy crazy', almost to the point where we forget that our kids are growing and NEED substance. I've had a hard time in the beginning because I was trying to watch what I ate, and keep things light not super heavy. But kids can't survive off salads, smoothies, lettuce wraps, chicken and veggies. (Honestly, I can't either. I need chocolate!)

So here is my 'healthier' version of spinach artichoke dip. It has healthy fats, veggies, protein, etc. Everything our growing kiddos need! And, adults with chipped red nail polish too, of coarse!

Spinach Artichoke Dip (Healthier)

By The Diva Dish

Ingredients

3 TB. coconut oil
3-4 TB. minced fresh garlic
One 10 ounce packaged frozen spinach, drained and thawed (Can use fresh spinach)
1 can artichokes, drained and roughly chopped
3 TB. coconut oil
3 TB. flour
1 can light coconut milk (13-14 ounces)
1 c. plain greek yogurt
1 c. grated parmesan cheese (can experiment with 1/2 c.)
salt & pepper
Parmesan cheese grated for the top (optional)

Instructions

In a sauce pan add your 3 TB. coconut oil and melt.
Then add in your garlic and cook over medium heat for a couple of minutes.
Next add in your spinach and toss into the garlic/oil mixture.
Cook over medium/high heat for about 3-5 minutes.
Add the cooked spinach to a strainer and strain the juices back into the pan. (Press the spinach to get it all out.)
In the same pan, add your artichokes.
On medium/high heat, cook the artichokes for a few minutes until they have some color on them.
Remove the artichokes from the pan and place on a plate and set aside.
In the same pan, add the other 3 TB. of coconut oil and flour. (Reduce heat to medium.)
Whisk together until a paste forms.
Then slowly whisk in the coconut milk.
Continue to whisk on medium heat, or a little higher, until the mixture becomes thick.
Next whisk in greek yogurt and combine until creamy, followed by the parmesan cheese.
Stir until everything is melted and combined.
Sprinkle a little bit of salt and pepper in.
Next, fold in the spinach and artichokes.
Pour mixture into a greased baking dish, 9x9 or which ever size you prefer.
Eat immediately, OR top the dip with a little extra shredded parmesan and bake at 375 degrees for 10-15 minutes.

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I served this at my parents house and everyone ate them with baked pita chips, but my 4 year old loves them with salty tortilla chips! Who knew?! You could easily dip carrots or cucumbers in this too, which I think would be a great alternative to the bread.

But...Bread is so good.

I probably should go fix my nail polish while my girls are napping huh? That's right. The girls are asleep and Frozen is still on. I don't even know who I am any more...

****************************************************************************************************

I'd love to hear about your kiddos, their food preferences, and if they are picky or not and what you do with them to encourage them to eat!

Orange Rolls

December 9, 2014 Arielle

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!

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. :)

Mini Pancake Muffins (Pumpkin)

December 2, 2014 Arielle

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...

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.

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...

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!

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!

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!)

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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?

Right????!!! ;)

Hint of Coconut Overnight Baked French Toast

November 21, 2014 Arielle

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.

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..

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.

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...

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!

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!

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Do you have a favorite holiday breakfast? Share with me in the comments below, I would love to hear your family traditions!

My Imperfectly Perfect Life

November 17, 2014 Arielle

I have to tell ya...Hitting the "NewPost" button on my blog felt SO weird and comforting at the same time. I've really missed opening my computer and sharing my love of health, with a little glimpse of my crazy beautiful life, and my overly dramatic personality... It's been too long my friends. Way too long.

Someone close to me recently told me that I portray myself having this perfect life in my posts/FB statuses/Instagram, but in reality my life isn't so. Like I've been fake...It was a little bit of an "ouch...really?" I feel like I've tried to be as real as Ican on social media and my blog post. I think I have done my best to share the good most definitely, but I also feel that I've been open with sharing some of the bad and the ugly. (We are entitled to some privacy right?) :)

I know that social media can be a place where we don't always show the reality of life, but I've always looked at this blog and my social media outlets as a place of positivity. A place of comfort, strength, passion, common ground for others, and definitely a place of reality.

So that had me thinking, and since then I've been eager to share a little bit of reality of my well...Imperfectly Perfect life.

It's been about a month since I've been present here on The Diva Dish, and before that I was touch and go. Truth is my friends, we all have touch days/months/years. Times where it's like, "Ok, can I really take much more?!" Times where we think everything is falling apart and there is NO way we can pick ourselves.

This has been one of those years.

There has been a lot of loved ones lost this year, a lot of financial difficulties, relationships have been tried and tested between family members, friends, and my marriage. I've felt alone, lost, and even like a terrible mother and wife. I've seen loved ones struggle more than ever before, and I've been hurt by people who I respected and loved.

BUT...

There is always a but!

I've also been blessed so much. I was able to get pregnant and continue to stay at home and raise my two baby girls. I've had many opportunities to see prayers answered by my loving Heavenly Father when I most needed them. I've learned the true value of friendship, and have seen many serve and sacrifice to help myself and my family out in many ways. I've learned that there is nothing better than a phone call of comfort from my mom or dad. And I have never felt closer to God than I do now...

I've become a lot stronger and so much more confident in myself than ever before, something which I've struggled with for a while. I know that I can do hard things, and I am doing the best I can to be a great mother, wife, friend, and woman.

Why am I sharing this?

Not just to say that my life isn't perfect, because I know that I've expressed that before.

What I really wanted to share was that life can be extremely difficult. We all go through things unimaginable, and no trial compares. It's easy to get wrapped up in other peoples lives, thinking that their grass is greener (or their house is cleaner!)

But even in times of darkness, there is light. I've learned this so much this year. Even if it's just a smile and an "I wove you!" from my two year old, or an "I'm so happy mom!" from my 4 year old. There IS light. Some days there will be more than others...But I know that we are strong, we are loved, and that no one is living a fairy tale.

More of like a broadway show, ya know :)!

There will be multiple days of messy houses, laundry piles for DAYS, tantrums, toys on the floor, (and even some food!) And there will be nights where we order a pizza and eat three slices with ranch dressing and not feel bad about it..(And then have a bowl of rice krispies later that night!)

And then there will be times where our world is turned upside down. Times where we fall and we don't really want to get up, and we need help.

It's so important to love others because we really don't know what burdens others are carrying. Look for opportunities to serve and love others...

And look for times where there is a little (or a lot) of light...

I love you my friends and I'm grateful you have stuck with me this far during this year. I love this blog and I love all those who have supported me! Please know that despite the challenges this year has brought, we are doing GOOD! We are so blessed in more ways than we can count!

I'm so happy it's the Holiday season! I can't wait to eat more pumpkin and have hot chocolate by a sparkly christmas tree! With a large pile of laundry next to me of coarse :)!

Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes & Artichokes

October 15, 2014 Arielle

*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.)

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.

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

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

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

Thai Spiced Pumpkin Soup (Served in Pumpkins!)

October 13, 2014 Arielle

Ever since the start of "Fall", I've been craving a nice warm pumpkin soup served in a cute lil' pumpkin!

But I wanted to spice it up a little different since my husband dreads anything pumpkin. ( I know...)

So I added some curry season, creamy coconut milk, and a little sweetness from a sweet potato. He actually really like it! Until he added one too many dashes of Franks Hot sauce and RUINED it.

He seems to think that Franks Hot sauce goes on EVERYTHING. I mean, it's not like they market the product saying it goes on EV.RY.THANG.

Or do they?

Don't answer.

He also doesn't like dessert, Real Housewives, or the color turquoise. (Which, I want to paint my whole house and every piece of furniture.) WHAT'S WRONG WITH HIM?! Not that much really...He's adorable. But really? Who hates turquoise?

Now...About that Thai Spiced Pumpkin Soup...

Thai Spiced Pumpkin Soup

Ingredients

2 1/2 c. pumpkin puree, fresh or canned
1 c. sweet potato puree
1 can full fat coconut milk
4 c. vegetable broth
4 TB. madras curry powder, or another curry powder seasoning
grated nutmeg, or a sprinkle of ground nutmeg
Salt & Pepper to taste
Topping:
Roasted pumpkin seeds
Drizzle of coconut milk

Instructions

Add the puree, milk, broth, and curry powder in a pot over the stop. Turn the heat on to medium.
Whisk all ingredients together until creamy. Let the soup come to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Add in your nutmeg and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot in bowls, or hollowed pumpkins, and top with roasted pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of coconut milk.

My dream is to one day hold a fabulous Thanksgiving Dinner at my house where I serve this soup in mini pumpkins and everyone says "Ooooh" and "Aaahhh"...

Then drizzle it with a yummy coconut milk and some crunchy roasted pumpkin seeds! It's the perfect crouton for this soup!

I promise my next recipe won't be pumpkin based...I think? Otherwise my husband might, well...Put Franks Hot Sauce on Pumpkin Pie.

Not ok...

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

October 6, 2014 Arielle

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.
Enjoy!

Recipe slightly adapted from this lovely and delicious Pumpkin Bread from What's Gaby cooking!

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...

#Immelting

Diva Adventures: Newport Beach

September 30, 2014 Arielle

Beach Bums, The Diva Dish, http://thediva-dish.com

Ever since moving away from California, we haven't really played in the sand. (Unless you consider the Desert Sand mixed with rocks, then yes. Every day.) We miss it so much, and we will be calling this our home for the next week! This couldn't have come at a better time with our busy and crazy lifestyle. Sometimes we just need to take time and relax...And drink milkshakes.

Have you ever been to New Port Beach, California? What are your favorite activities? More importantly, where are the best places to EAT? :) We did the Crab Cooker, which was an old family favorite, but I would love to hear more of your ideas!

Pirate & Pixie Birthday Party

September 25, 2014 Arielle

My plan was to have this post up two weeks ago... But if you follow me on social media, you know that we just bought a house (WOO HOO!), but we had two weeks to be out of our rental and move and clean everything (Boo!!).

This year for the girl's birthday I really wanted to keep it simple, unlike THIS one...or THIS one...or THIS one...

But I have this problem where I like to plan parties for little kids who won't remember it and spend a lot of money and make it cute...I blame pinterest. So this year I halved-it. I did some cute decor, a few games, but I still kept it simple and had the party at the park and let the kids run wild on the play ground.

I have to say, it felt good to take it easy and not put TOO much stress into it! I think next year will be even more relaxed!

After all...I should save my stress (and money) for the three weddings I'll have to plan in the years down the road right??

The girls really wanted a Tinkerbell Party this year, but they have a lot of boy friends and I figured fairy wings and wands weren't really up their ally. So we changed it to Pirate and Pixie! I loved this theme so much, you really could have so much fun with it!

Pirate & Pixie Party-The Diva Dish, http://thediva-dish.com

Here are some party details:

Food: (We had a lot of adults/family too!)

Pirate Booty

Berries

Orange 'pirate boats' (Saw this on pinterest too! Not sure where it originally came from though.)

Garden Salad-Kale salad from Costco, which is my FAVORITE!

Berry Marshmallows in cups

Pizza

Tinkerbell cupcakes- I used my Cricut machine to cut flowers and designs for the toppings

Pirate Cupcakes

Decorations:

Fans/Lanterns (Minted.com)

Utensils/Straws/Plates/Napkins etc. (Partypail.com)

Games:

Walk the plank

Pirate Hook Ring Toss (Not sure where this idea came from, but it's all over pinterest)

Piñata

Playing at the park

I just love being a mommy to my two darling baby girls, and every year I get a little sad that they are growing up! So grateful to have them in my life!

Thanks again for your patience friends! Love you all so much!

No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

September 10, 2014 Arielle

There was this one time last week where I'm positive people wanted to call CPS on me...

It was a day like every other. The girls requested to dress them selves, which meant rain boots, pink dresses, matching head bands, and crocs. My 4 year old did the makeup of her self and the two year old. Although they looked as if they both had black eyes, I've learned in my few years of being their mommy that I need to pick my battles wisely. Rain boots and black eyes for make-up were fine in my book...that day...

We entered into the store, Hobby Lobby, and the girls eyes lit up as they noticed Christmas, Halloween, and pink sparkly things placed strategically around the store. I knew immediately keeping them in the cart was going to be nearly impossible...I knew things might end badly. I should have turned around. But I didn't.

I became too confident in my parenting skills.

As we walked around the store searching for the things I needed, all the trinkets and sparkly things started to affect the children. GREATLY. They ran, they screamed, they grabbed, they pulled. (By they I mean the two year old.) I tried my best to keep them in control, threatening them with loosing toys and iPad time, then bribing them with old food at the bottom of my bag.

Then things got bad. Real bad.

The two year old had about had it. I tried my hardest to buckle her in the cart, but the screams made it embarrassing and impossible to continue. As we headed for the checkout line I stupidly let me girls play with the GOSH FREAKING DARN toys that sit near the register.

DUMB Arielle. DUMB.

I noticed the two year old taking a liking to a pink unicorn and in my head knew crap was about to hit the fan. I planned an escape rout in my head, which involved dropping the toy and running out the door.

But then, in the process of the toy being dropped and the screams beginning...The 4 year old had to pee. BAD. BAD as in it's coming out bad. So we rushed to the back of the store, one child holding them selves, the other screaming a scream only people have nightmares about. We then rushed into the bathroom stall and handled business.

The two year old was still screaming, and this time even louder. I tried everything I could to calm her, but clearly she wasn't having it. A good 10 minutes went by in that bathroom, because I was too embarrassed to leave. I thought, maybe if she just stops we can run out and no one will notice.

Then an employee comes to check on us, ya know, because it sounded like I was BEATING MY CHILD. At that moment I knew I had to leave.

As we walked to the front of the store with the screaming, legs and arms flailing child in my arms, I saw and felt each entire person's eyes glaring and me. I could read their thoughts, "Unfit mother, spoiled brats, OMG SHE'S PREGNANT WITH ANOTHER!!"...

I had to bite my tongue from screaming, "WHAT THE HECK IS EVERYONE LOOKING AT?!"

As we got in the car, dramatically I might add, I sat there and started to laugh...and then cry. No way did that just happen.

And as I looked up in my rear view mirror to look at my two precious darling little divas, I heard a quiet whimpering voice say,

"Mommy...Can I have a Chookie?"

No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookies

Ingredients

1/2 c. honey
1/4 c. coconut oil
1/4 c. unsweetened cocoa powder
dash of salt
1/2 c. peanut butter or almond butter*
3/4 c. quick oats
1/3 c. dried cranberries
1/3 c. unsweetened coconut
2 TB. chopped dark chocolate
1 TB. chia seeds
* If you use a more natural peanut butter, they tend to have more oil to them. Take this into consideration when making the cookies. You may need to take a way 1 TB. of coconut oil if your nut butter seems really oily.

Instructions

In a sauce pan, melt honey, coconut oil, and salt. Stir in cocoa powder and nut butter until combined and melted, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
Remove the lid, stir in the oats, cranberries, coconut, chocolate, and chia seeds.
Using a small cookie cutter, scoop the cookies out onto a baking sheet fitted with parchment paper or baking mat.
You can top the cookies with additional coconut if desired.
Place the cookies in the fridge and let them set for at least 30 minutes. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Enjoy!!
Adapted from Food Network Magazine

3.2.1310

And that my friends is why I will never go to the store ever again in my life.

The end.

Pregnancy #3-Update/All About

August 25, 2014 Arielle

Oh my Heavens!! Where do I begin?!

(12 weeks Pregnant. I've grown since then!)

First of all, THANK YOU for all of the love, support, congrats, and sweet wishes from all of you! Our little family and this baby bump of mine feel so loved! I feel so blessed in so many ways!

When my second little girl was born, I vowed right there on the hospital table that I wasn't going to do it ever again. Not because I didn't love babies, but because that pregnancy/labor was so hard I swore to myself and everyone around me that we were done.

I gave away ALL...yes all...of my baby stuff. (Minus a few memorable items.) I was content with my decision and moved on with life as a mom of two little divas.

But then...

I saw a baby.

Seriously, that was all it took. Our neighbor had a baby and all of the sudden I had baby fever. I felt that there was another little angel in our life that needed to be with our family. I told my husband about it and he looked at me shocked and confused each time. Yes, there were multiple times we talked about babies. Finally, at one moment, we both felt it was right and well...I don't need to explain more do I?

So far, this pregnancy has been INCREDIBLY DIFFERENT and similar all the same. (Which is why we were convinced it was a boy....)

With each of my pregnancies, I always know immediately. It's a weird thing to explain, but I just always know. This one started out incredibly easy, to the point where I started to disbelieve what the FOUR pregnancy test were telling me. I had NO symptoms...Not one. Usually I'll have a few right off the bat, but this time I had nothing.

Don't worry...they showed up.

Around week 8 it hit me.

Nauseousness. Throwing up Every.Dang.Day. (Still pretty much am.). Headaches, fatigue, and did I mention my hate towards food?! This has been pretty similar with both my pregnancies, but food does not sound good. The look, texture, feel, smell, anything will turn me off. EVEN CHOCOLATE!!!! Some days I can stomach a certain food, and some days I can't. It has made things difficult because I feel like I'm not getting all the nutrients I need. I wish I was being dramatic, because let's be honest, I usually am...

But I swear the other day I bit into a carrot that didn't taste so good, I went to spit it out, and the act of well...doing that...made me loose my lunch. I also heated up soup in the microwave, and that did it for me too...I'm hoping the further along I get, the better I can eat. I really do miss food...

As for my exercise, the beginning of my pregnancy when I felt amazing, I was kicking butt. As soon as the vomiting started, my exercise pretty much stopped. It was hard feeling like I was in a car 24/7, loosing the food I did eat, and taking care of two very active girls. It's gotten a bit easier since then, so I've been taking it slow with my stationary bike and walks. If there is one thing I've learned in pregnancy, it's that exercise makes pregnancy and labor definitely easier, but pushing your self is never a smart thing. Just do the best you can, even if it's slow. Any movement is good.

I also nap pretty much every day, especially when I felt car sick. My laundry is rarely done, the dishes are pilled high, and my kids lived off TV and macaroni and cheese for a while as a laid down for the majority of my day. My poor husband came home to quite the scene every day from work. Luckily he loves me OH SO MUCH, so it was all good ;)!

I have to add that I know pregnancy in general can be a sensitive subject to others, especially those who have struggled with loss and infertility. It's hard to say this but a majority of my friends are suffering from these problems, and it's a horrible struggle to go through. I am so grateful for each one of these people in my life, they have been such amazing women to my daughters by loving, teaching, playing, and caring for them. I am so grateful for the opportunity that I have to do the things I am able to do, but please know that with those that struggle my heart is always with you! We are all mothers in our own way, whether we bare children or not, I truly believe that.

Thank you again friends for your love & support! I plan to do a series of post of the foods I HAVE been craving, and what I've done to make them more healthier! (For example, a ranch salad...Sounds so good right now!)

Love you all!!

We've been keeping a secret...

August 24, 2014 Arielle

We've been keeping a rather large secret for a very long time...

We are expecting another BABY GIRL in February, 2015!

A post will follow soon with all the details :)!

Simple Top Ramen

August 21, 2014 Arielle

scroll down for recipe

Today I held a (rather large) clump of thin dirty blond hair in my hand.

One child screaming with her hands on her head, and the other child grinning from ear to ear, doing some sort of twirl victory dance.

As I bent down to scold said dancing child, her little two year old mouth looked at me and said, "Yeave me ayone!"

What?!

Then my 4 year old removed her hands from her poor scalp that was probably burning, and screamed, "MY SECOND NAME IS ELSA, QUEEN OF THE QUEEN!"...Followed by a twirl of her gown and loud stomps down the hallway.

"YEAVE ME AYONE."

"NO! MY NAME IS ELSA"

"GO AYAY!"

"YOU CAN'T TELL ELSA WHAT TO DO!"

"AYAYALDLF LSKDJFY!!!!"

Push, Shove, Twirl, Stomp, and Victory Dance...In that order.

I couldn't figure out whether to talk to Elsa or Gia, and quite frankly I was worried the two year old will pull my hair. So I did what any desperate mom would do...

I drank.

Ice water. It calms me guys. Then I said a prayer.

For sanity, for comfort, and for strength.

And then in that moment, both my girls came and sat on my lap and as clear as day I heard, "They love you so much."

Did they stop fighting after that? No. I swear my oldest was running around saying "Son of a Fish!"

Did I feel like a complete failure? No. Despite the chaos and drama, I felt loved, I knew they felt loved and loved each other as well.

I also knew that someone had taught my daughter to say, "Son of a fish!"...

Next step:

Comfort Food.

Top Ramen

(Serving size 8 cups)

I will be completely honest and say as a child I LOVED opening a package of top ramen, sprinkling the 'seasoning' packet on top of the dried pasta, and eating as is. I can still taste it! This is a spin off of that ever so popular childhood favorite. This is a vegetarian version, but you can definitely add in your favorite ingredients. Switch up the broths, sautee some diced veggies with the onions, etc.

Ingredients

2 TB. sesame oil, or olive oil
1/4 c. minced onion
3 cloves garlic minced
2 tsp. freshly grated ginger
(Opt: Minced carrots)
8 cups vegetable broth
2 cups water
12 oz. Chinese Noodles
4 tsp. ground celery seed
4-5 TB. fresh chopped chives
salt/pepper
optional: red pepper flakes, soy sauce, hot sauce, etc.)

Instructions

In a large saucepan, add oil and heat up. Then add minced onion, garlic, and ginger. (If you add other raw veggies add in here as well.)
Continually toss and cook for 3-5 minutes on medium heat.
Next add in broth and water.
Stir and add in chinese noodles.
Sprinkle in spices and let cook for a few minutes until the noodles are soft.
Add in your additional seasonings and toppings. Serve hot!

instant pot version

Directions:

Turn the instant pot on SAUTE. Add 1-2 TB. olive oil, the onions, garlic, ginger, and minced carrots. Saute until the the onions are translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the rest of the ingredients into the Instant pot and set to MANUAL. Cook for 2 minutes. Release steam when done.

I enjoyed this comfort food all by myself...Imagine that. One child asleep, and the other staring/glaring at me from time out.

You can thank that son of a fish.

shop the recipe

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Pesto Zucchini Pasta

July 30, 2014 Arielle

Say What?!? A Post!!!

That's right! I'm sure there are pigs flying somewhere right?

Well today's post is featured on Venus Williams Eleven By Venus Blog!

Zucchini Pest Pasta! I am LOVING myjulienne peeler! I have so many ideas in my head on how I can play around with it!

To check out the recipe, GO HERE!

ALSO...

We are back home as of yesterday, and we aren't leaving town for another week and a half so I have PLENTY of time to share things with you! Be looking out for new recipes and etc.!

Thanks again for all of your support! Much love!!

Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Balls

July 14, 2014 Arielle

We've all heard about those kind of kids...

The ones whose pictures float across the internet of them covered in diaper cream while standing in a gallon of spilled milk. Or THAT kid who flush wallets, watches, and other valuables down the toilet...Or worse yet, swallows them.

Or how about that kids who screams like a baby piglet when they don't get their way in the store...seriously? Whose child is that?

Before I had kids, I remember thinking to my self, "How on earth did that child end up in THAT situation?! Wasn't anyone watching the kid?" (For example; diaper cream switch.) Or, "Seriously, those parents are the WORST parents ever to have that screaming kid! If that was my child..."

And then one day, I birthed THAT child.

The child who finds her self in the most unbelievable messiest situations when I run to the bathroom. The child who shoves a pearl in her ear. The child who screams like a piglet when she wants G-U-M at the store...

The child who whenever they see a glass full of liquid HAS to dump it all over my open and perfectly working computer...And then play with it.

AND THEN, when you take that computer to the store to get fixed, said child throws a major tantrum on the floor because she wanted G-U-FLIPPEN-M.

I love THAT child.

I love that child's multiple kisses and hugs. I love her funny phrases, songs, and noises, (most of them.)

I love that child's bubbly, bright, and silly personality. That sneaky smile and the way she closes her eyes, bows her head, and folds those chubby arms when she says her prayers.

I love that child more than life it self...

Even if she cost me $234983749.98 to fix my dang computer. (And all my pictures, videos, programs...etc.) #yup

Dear child,

Please continue to be THAT child. And I promise I'll continue to be one of THOSE parents.

xo-

Mommy

Now...For some much needed cookie dough balls ya?

(I shared a picture of these cookies on my Facebook page and the results were outstanding! I knew I had to share the recipe with all of you! xo)

Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Balls

These don't last long in our household! They are perfect for a quick pick me up, since they are full of protein! They also work great for treats in kids school lunches! Either way you eat, enjoy!

Ingredients

1 c. raw peanuts
1/2 c. oats
2 TB. honey
2 TB. maple syrup
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 c. chocolate chips (or more if needed)

Instructions

In a food processor or blender, add peanuts and blend until a fine flour comes together to form a dough. (Don't process after that or you will get peanut butter!!) Note: Don't process all ingredients together because the mixture won't turn out. You will get a cookie crumble, which is totally fine, but it won't form into balls!
Next add the rest of the ingredients, besides chocolate chips, and blend until combined. (Not too much blending!)
Add the chocolate chips and pulse a few times to mix.
Using a small cookie scoop, make balls and keep in the fridge or freezer!
Makes 14-16 small balls!

3.2.1310

THAT child loves these PB cookie dough balls.

And THAT child makes a huge mess when she eats them, and then dumps her milk all over the place to top it off...

I love that child.

Diva Adventures: Utah

July 7, 2014 Arielle

I guess you could call us 'moochers', since we've always relied on grandparents to go on family getaways and vacations, but for the first time we ventured out just us four. I wish we would have done this sooner, but with student life and school loans, we haven't had the opportunity to do so. Luckily, everything worked out perfectly for our little family to take this trip, and it was exactly what we needed. We didn't go anywhere exotic (well, to some it might be), just to the beautiful state of Utah. We haven't been in years, and I was dying to see grass. (It's against the religion of Las Vegas to have grass I think?) I've never felt more like a family than I did on this trip. I still feel happy thinking about the memories we created.

We visited my grandparents grave first thing, and it was a beautiful start to the trip. It really put things into perspective for me. I couldn't help but think how happy my grandparents were to see their two great granddaughters running around and reading the names on their grave site. I know they would have loved my babies more than anything!

The next day was July 4th, and boy does Utah love to celebrate. We attending the provo parade, and then sat under the stars on a large blanket in Pleasant Grove, Utah. We knew no one, but had so much fun cuddling, tickling, and laughing on that blanket as we waited for the fireworks.

On Saturday we went to Salt Lake City where we toured Temple Square. There are so many fabulous things about temple square that I love, especially all of the flowers, grass, and trees. (Again, non existent in Las Vegas.) We watched a movie, read stories, viewed beautiful buildings, and ate ice cream. Then we walked across the street to the mall and went to the Disney store. (There was some bribing that happened in order for that stop...)

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I can't say it enough...I loved every second of this weekend. Every day home life is special in it's own way, but going out and doing things as a family, and enjoying each others company is completely different. I treasure these moments and I hope in 15 years my girls still consider my their best friend. (And my husband too!)

Oh, and seriously...I LOVE grass.

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Hey There!

Welcome to The Diva Dish! My name is Ari and I love Kale Salads and Chocolate Cake. I also love to blog about it...