We celebrated our one year homeversary as Texans this weekend, and it was so joyful to reflect on our journey here last year, and take time to really appreciate what this move meant to our family. My Dad always encouraged us to celebrate these milestones, and I am so glad for it, because it creates an opportunity to evaluate how far you’ve come, and where you hope to be. [Right here]. This move has been so impactful for our family and the deep gratitude I feel is hard to put into words. With that, I’ll send it over to the words I do have the ability to (mostly 😆) string together for the most scrumptious scrolls of the week!

Making.

BEST EDIBLE COOKIE DOUGH BITES

• 1 can of chickpeas (garbanzo beans) drained and peeled. It’s the most time-consuming part of the process, but worth it!
• 4 pitted juicy dates
• swirl of maple syrup to taste (I find it doesn’t need much help in the sweet department thanks to the dates)
• 2 t. Mexican vanilla 🏆This is the MVP in my opinion. Mexican vanilla beans are thicker & give it a smooth, luxe profile. It’s next-level good.
• 2 T. Nut or seed butter
• 2 T. GF oats
• Himalayan sea salt and cinnamon to taste
• Add all of the above to your food processor and once it’s completely blended, hand mix in the @lilys_sweets butterscotch chips (or chocolate chips if you prefer!). We dip with 🍎, 🥨, or a 🥄!

Watching.

This might not end up being what you were expecting. At least for us, that was the case. I was a massive Britney fan back in the day, as any of my college friends will tell you 😆. Not entirely the case for Jon. But you don’t have to be a Britney fan to watch this documentary on the making of her conservatorship, the loss of all human rights, and the cage she has been kept in for the last 13 years. Take her or leave her, when you hear about some of the nuances of the conservatorship, it is gut-wrenching. I always imagined it was a parent protecting their child from something private we weren’t privy too, but once you see this system unmasked, you realize the truth is only beginning to come to light.

Reading.

I have such mixed feelings about this book. The writing, in my opinion, was spectacular. The level of imagery and impeccable attention to detail made you feel like you were right there inside the page; looking out at the views of the Cape, smelling the ocean, feeling the gentle breeze. It oscillated between present day and snippets from the main character’s childhood, giving the reader more perspective than any other character had in the novel. However, there is a definite trigger warning for anyone who is sensitive about the topic of adultery (and a few other jarring events). Another issue I grappled with was that the ending was less than satisfying; in the sense that it wasn’t “wrapped up” neatly; the story just stopped. That being said, it was a page-turner and if the above doesn’t bother you, I think you’re going to like it. 8.8/10⭐️

Listening.

4,000 weeks is all we have 😳😩. This podcast was insightful, inspiring, and wildly motivating in a way I hadn’t yet felt.

Feeling.

Trying.

My Mom sent me the most thoughtful Dia de Los Muertos (day of the dead) surprise! I have always loved the rich tradition behind that Mexican holiday, but it holds extra special meaning for me since my Dad and Gram died. She sent me a pumpkin scent for my Dad who called me pumpkin my whole life, and cookies for my Gram. This small shop is a hard-working mom with twin girls and she makes exceptional candles!

This piece on words kids often mispronounce was adorable 😍. Grey calls wax “wack”, instead of other he says “udder”, and “dooze” in place of does. What about the little ones in your life?

Speaking of cute kids, Grey sent this to his best friend in Rhode Island in case you’re looking for a halloween surprise that doesn’t involve more candy.

Here is an interior design style with staying power. I have been loving Wabi Sabi. What about you?

This “Elegance Coach” lists her Top 10 Rules every woman must follow to elevate her life. ((still trying to swear less, but 😳))

Small talk has never been my jam. It’s a soul-crusher for me. This article had fantastic insight and 10 actionable steps to avoid small talk and forge meaningful connections.

I was just talking to a friend about this the other day – in case you’re waiting for a sign – 4 signs it’s time to leave your job.

Are you a cauliflower fan? It is such an underrated super-vegetable. Here’s an anti-inflammatory, mouth-watering recipe to try.

Alright, I’m guessing not everyone is pro-cauliflower, but what about these? I would LOVE to know your TTSTTF recipe!!

I love this jacket so much, I bought it again for Grey this fall. He had his last one for two years! Also, this cardigan. Look at the patches on the elbows. Too cute!

And I got this one for the big guy. It exceeded expectations in-person and then some. The quality is fantastic and it looks SO different from similar styles I’ve seen. Bonus, Jon loved it too 😆.

If you have been here with us for just this move, or for the last eight, we are so grateful to be on this journey with you. Something I say thank you for every day, is the collective spirit to learn, grow, and experience life to its fullest with my people. We get to design this life. If something isn't serving you, work toward creating a reality that serves you better. You deserve it, and if you're ready for a change, I am in your corner cheering you on the loudest!