Living Eco-Friendly

Six weeks ago our faithful family minivan blew up coming home from an end-of-summer getaway. After the initial shock, I thought this might be an opportunity for us to live simpler. I suggested we aim for six months of two cars between three drivers. We would coordinate schedules, walk/bike more, and limit expenses on gas … Continue reading Living Eco-Friendly

Meatless Monday: Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli Soup (vegan!)

It cooled off just enough last week to eat soup again. Notice I didn't say "to cook soup," because IP cooking means I don't have to stand and stir a hot pot. It's one of my favorite things about the IP: I can quickly make yummy veggies and soups that would require more time on … Continue reading Meatless Monday: Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli Soup (vegan!)

Ginger for Breakfast: 3 Recipes Fueling My Mornings

I <3 ginger! Fan-fave cinnamon is great, but ginger is my jam. It’s peppery-delicious, versatile all day long, and so good for you. Here are three breakfast-inspired ginger-infused recipes I’ve been making on repeat. Ginger-Lemon Shots Yes, you can buy ginger shots at Jamba Juice, Whole Foods, even at farmer’s markets (which is where I … Continue reading Ginger for Breakfast: 3 Recipes Fueling My Mornings

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 – 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”