More NYC

We crammed so much fun into just a few days that my heart and head are full of NYC... Since we returned, I've been posting pictures and reflections (art, architecture, history, public spaces, etc) over on Instagram. Follow me there for more: @sivricketts. And meanwhile, settle into fall with a delicious, healthy, and oh-so-easy Cauliflower … Continue reading More NYC

Meatless Monday – Berry Muffins

Once a month I teach the preschool Sunday school class. Yesterday's lesson was about being fearfully and wonderfully made in God's image, which means we are smart, and helpful, and creative (among other things). We focused on the "creative" part and gave the kids lots of time to paint with watercolors, or color, or make … Continue reading Meatless Monday – Berry Muffins

Meatless Monday: Plant-Based Challenge Wk3

When you come to appreciate the wisdom of planning ahead because a) you get sick and b) you hadn't planned adequately enough... I enjoy meal planning and prepping on Sundays. But last Sunday would be followed by a day-off Monday, so less need. Plus, I felt slightly under the weather, so napping took priority. Hence … Continue reading Meatless Monday: Plant-Based Challenge Wk3

Meatless Monday – Plant-Based Challenge Wk2

Set it and forget it. In other words, plan ahead. Week 2 started with a bang. I gave myself the twin gifts of time and money by skipping the store and meal planning with what I already had. The week's theme foods included  wheat, chickpeas and squash, so I landed on pumpkin; I spent Sunday … Continue reading Meatless Monday – Plant-Based Challenge Wk2

Meatless Monday – 21-Day Plant-Based Challenge

This is my third year in the three-week plant-based challenge run by UC Davis Integrative Medicine. I love that a major California university is charging ahead with cutting edge research and practical nutritional information, including regular blog posts, webinars, and this annual challenge that truly challenges my eating habits. Because, counter-cultural as it may be, … Continue reading Meatless Monday – 21-Day Plant-Based Challenge

Meatless Monday – Spinach Artichoke White Bean Dip

Well, this day did not go to plan! Guy left this morning for a full week of travel. So of course, not one, but TWO cars to which I had access didn't work. Commence panic attack: I'm Stranded! After I pulled myself together from a toddler-worthy temper tantrum, I calmed down and decided to take … Continue reading Meatless Monday – Spinach Artichoke White Bean Dip

Meatless Monday – Cherry Berry Banana Green Smoothie

A few months ago I read that a shot of cherry juice before bed could help with insomnia. So when I saw cherry juice on sale at Costco, I added it to the cart. But we're tired and forget to a) drink it and b) make anything resembling scientific study when we happen to remember … Continue reading Meatless Monday – Cherry Berry Banana Green Smoothie

Meatless Monday – Tomato Soup

I was in a funk. The kiddo was sick and the day's plans dashed. After walking the dogs, I decided to cook the rest of the day away. I created some lovely food, and the acts of creating and serving those I love helped lift the gray clouds from my atmosphere. C19 had called from … Continue reading Meatless Monday – Tomato Soup

Meatless Monday: Potato “Deviled Eggs”

I'm not a football fan. Sure, I love a good community gathering now and then, and I can appreciate a nice pass, great catch, swift run, straight kick. I totally get team spirit, and of course athleticism at its peak can be invigorating to watch. But when my kid suffered a severe concussion on his … Continue reading Meatless Monday: Potato “Deviled Eggs”

Meatless Monday – Golden Wellness Smoothie

I love a quiet, lazy, summer weekend! Going to bed early with a good book, the fan gently whirring its white-noise breeze through the warm night. Sleeping as long as necessary and still waking early-ish. Caring for pets while the coffee drips; sipping coffee and Bible: flowing, life-giving streams, both. Gearing up for a workout … Continue reading Meatless Monday – Golden Wellness Smoothie