The number of hugs we need a day just to get by is blowing my mind. Wait until you hear how many hugs you need each day to really thrive. So in case you’re in the market for an extra, I’d love to welcome you inside. We’re sharing a new cowboy cookie recipe, movement to help us live to 100, and inspiration for the week ahead. Plus the hugs, of course. Welcome, welcome! We’re glad you’re here:

meals

I’d never heard of Cowboy cookies until I saw them on an end-cap at the grocery store. But they were packaged and had pretty gnarly ingredients, so I was determined to learn to make them at home. Here’s what we came up with, and if the empty cookie jar is any indication, they were a huge hit in the Nixon residence.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 ½ cups sprouted rolled oats
• 1 cup gluten free flour
• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar
• 4 tablespoons of maple syrup
• 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/4 cup vegan milk
• 1 cup vegan chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped walnuts

Preheat your oven to 350. In your stand mixer, or a large bowl, cream together your vegan butter and coconut sugar. Then add in your maple syrup, and vanilla. Whip until fluffy. Add to the top all of your dry ingredients with the exception of the coconut, chocolate chips, and walnuts. When you have the dry ingredients just barely incorporated, go ahead and add in the last 3 toppings with your vegan milk – I went hard on the walnut flavor so we made homemade walnut milk to add in (it tastes exquisite in smoothies too!). I scooped about 2 tablespoons for each cookie on to the baking sheets and baked for 13 minutes. They are just a pale golden crispiness on the outside and once cooled, hold up firm and delicious while still soft and perfectly chewy on the inside.

How to Snack Smarter While Traveling, According to a Nutritionist

Why we should be eating more Brazil nuts.

This sounds so FUN! Everything You Need to Host a Cookbook Dinner Club

movement

I’ll never forget my 84 year old Grandma laying out on the driveway doing chalk art with Grey. What a gift! And probably why she’s still going strong at her age: Sitting On The Floor Can Help You Live To 100, Says A Longevity Expert

This new study makes me so hopeful for all of us! Living Longer Only Takes an Extra 17 Minutes a Day

Rucking season is upon us and I’ve noticed a lot more weight vests in the neighborhood! What Is Rucking? 10 Benefits For Women + Expert Tips For How To Get Started. Here’s the one I wear.

mindset

You might notice a theme in this month’s mindset slideshow (also three mentions of coffee 😅, and oh how that first sip feeling hits at 5am!). I needed these reminders, and I’m wondering if you might too. You’ll find the aforementioned hug intel on slide 4!

more

I listened to this 20 minute podcast and it ((drastically)) changed my goals for today, this week, this month, this YEAR. Well worth a listen if you’ve been feeling overstimulated.

So “Longevity Tea” Is A Thing & It’s Easier To Make Than You’d Expect (this sounds so good!)

I love these: How To Clear Your Energy: 7 Rituals To Reset After Work, Travel, Or A Breakup

Some of the items I curated for Grey’s Easter basket in case you’re looking for ideas: these handmade cross bracelets, this book (I’m excited to read it, too!), a super fun STEM toy I know will be a hit, and hydro lacrosse for the pool.

Oh, and we’re working on these Easter crafts this weekend to mail to family and friends!

Dopamine Menu: How to Boost Happiness and Make One That Works for You

The Farmer’s Almanac always reminds me of my Grandpa Pete. This is a fun tool to put in your zip code and it tells you the best time for planting in your area!

The 5 Love Languages Explained. Which one are you?

The 1 Surprising Health Benefit of Finally Leaving the Comfort Zone and Trying New Things

4 Signs You’re Not Getting Enough Protein

The Secret To A Truly Restorative Vacation (Hint: It’s Not Just Time Off)

7 Things That Sleep Doctors Really Want You To Stop Doing At Night

Thank you for spending a slice of your Sunday with us. I hope you found a nugget or two that spoke to you or moved the needle in a way you’ve been waiting for. I’d love to hear about it in the comments below, or if you prefer, shoot me an email. I love hearing from you. Praying you are well + joyful, kind friend!