It felt like one of those rites of passage weeks in casa de Nixon. We had our first kindergarten parent teacher conference (which went far better than I was prepared for 😆), and Grey was fitted for his first pair of glasses. It is so true what people tell you – your little human takes their cues from you. If you’re excited, they find the joy in it. And speaking of joy – we have it in spades in this week’s Scrolls! An easy, absolutely scrumptious caramel apple treat, a book club pick we know you’ll love, and the series everyone is buzzing about. We’re so thankful you’re here!

Making.

Caramel Apple Slices (vegan, GF, RSF)

This is one of my favorite treats to date! Speaking of dates, they are the star of this show, adding fiber, disease-fighting antioxidants, brain boosters & natural sweetness 😍.

Let’s start with the date caramel – into the food processor add:

• 10 juicy (pitted) dates
• 1/3 cup of oat milk (or your vegan milk of choice)
• 2-3 swirls of maple syrup (to taste)
• 1 T. vanilla
• 1 t. cinnamon
• Cut up two apples with enough “meat” on them to skewer a cake pop stick into the center.
• Spoon the date caramel on to each slice. Leave as-is or top with your favorite nuts. We added pecans.
• Then, melt your chocolate with 1 t. of coconut oil. I did a blend of Lily’s (no sugar added) butterscotch chips + dark chocolate.
• Drizzle chocolate on top and refrigerate!

See more recipes, joy jolts, and wellness nuggets on IG @nixonpack!

Reading.

One of the best parts about writing for you each week is the research I get to do, the unique experiences, fun finds, and unexpected surprises along the way. Like this book for example. I had no idea what it was about since Grey added it to our library bag after seeing part of our last name on the cover 😆. But I’m up for anything, and I know you are too, so it had to be worth a shot. It didn’t disappoint.

The Nix is both heart-breaking and hilarious, and has something every one of us can learn, un-learn, and re-learn about ourselves, the people we love, and humanity in general. What struck me most was how Hill was such a master social-observer. I love the way a beautifully written novel, and in-depth look inside the characters psyche can help us realize something about ourselves, our childhood, or relationships. Don’t let the 600+ pages deter you – the rhythm of it rocks you to the end before you realize how far you’ve come. 9.3 ⭐️

Watching.

Every bit of hype you’ve read about this series is true. It is outstanding in all the ways: the writing is impeccable, the cast is phenomenal, and season 3 raised the bar even higher. If you haven’t started it yet – 10/10 recommend! Fast paced, quick-witted, and addictive 👏🏽.

Listening.

This particular episode might not be up your alley, but I promise you, one of them will speak to the goals you’re working toward in this moment. I always describe myself as woo woo 😆 since I love to explore all wellness and well-being mediums, but hearing about the science behind some of my favorite practices was particularly insightful and eye-opening:

Feeling.

Tap the arrows for the wisdom you need to hear today. Which one resonates with you the most?

Trying.

Simple techniques to be more charming.

It’s officially tea season 🍵. How sweet is this kettle? And it comes in several colors! PS – head to @nixonpack on instagram later today for our top 3 wellness teas we recommend!

The best Christmas towns in America. Have you visited any of these for the holidays?

Food trends to look out for in 2022. (#’s 8 and 10 have been favorites of ours this year!)

A pep talk on the power of timing.

We swear by this wellness elixir: it’s anti-inflammatory, helps ward off sickness, and is a tasty way to get vital nutrients in.

A new to me shop with the cutest kids’ pajamas 😍. Grey is pajama-obsessed and growing like a weed, so he was in need of a new pair!

21 Simple Ways to Enjoy a Happier & Healthier Life Right Now. #20 is a big one for me. If we’re going to spend time on social media – actually being social, and forging meaningful connections.

Trying this recipe this week 😋 – it looks so nourishing and delicious!

If you have any plans to change up your bedding, I am a massive fan of linen – the feel, the look, and the fact that it gets softer & more buttery with time. We use that duvet, and this sheet. I recently bought a spare, but the original has lasted us five years and still going strong 👏🏽.

This sweater is a classic beauty, and they have it in so many colors this season. Naturally, I gravitate toward the blue, but the neutrals are in such pretty hues, too!

Everything at Anthro is 20% off this weekend – eyeing this Farm Rio dress. One of my favorite brands – environmentally conscious, beautifully made, and long-lasting.

Microgreens are one of my favorite things to buy at the farmer’s market: a little pricey, but they are a powerhouse of nutrition. Here’s what I’m researching this week to start growing our own!

How to talk to people with dementia.

Thank you for spending part of your day with us. We love seeing you here and hope you know how grateful we are to feel so supported by this wonderful community. Sending you sunshine, kindness, and all the joy jolts for the week ahead! Be well, kind friend 💙