How are you today? I am coming off a pretty down day yesterday, and I woke up bound and determined to change the story this morning. I allowed myself to get sucked into a news overload – engrossed by the stories on the anniversary of September 11th, coupled with the polarizing, vicious sentiments and suffering around us. It all became too much. As a glass-half full, joyful mama; taking a day to “be sad” was completely out of character, and yet, exactly what I needed. Jon held space for me, and it was a wonderful reminder that it is OK to turn it off. To mute accounts that are no longer serving you. To put an arms length in front of friends (and even family) who feel the need to push their political views on you. I’m sharing here in case you need that “permission” too. No one can protect your peace like you can. So with that out of the way, and with choosing JOY today – I offer you a happy place: scrolling through tasty recipes, beautiful inspiration for your week, and favorite finds in the links at the bottom!

Making.

Chickpea Cake

Please trust me on this one ?‍♀️. You will not taste the chickpeas! But they add the most luscious texture, incredible fiber and plant-based protein, and this is a cake you can make into any flavor you love. 

• ? 1 can of chickpeas (I used the bag from @thrivemarket ?, drained + rinsed. Try to shell as many as you can.
• ? 1/3 cup almond butter
• ? 1/4 cup maple syrup
• ? 1 T. coconut oil
• ⚪️ 1 t. vanilla
• ? 1/4 cup almond flour
• ?? 1/4 cup vegan chai protein (or whatever you have on hand!)
• ?1/4 t. baking soda
• ? 1/4 t. baking powder ? cinnamon + salt to taste

350 for 20 minutes in the oven & you’re ready to enjoy as-is, or add your favorite frosting!

Reading.

I finished this one just in the nick of time…in the middle of the night last night. It is the type of novel that not only nudges you to stay up late to keep reading, it insists. The storytelling was vivid, fluid, and perfectly detailed. Though I have read several novels from this time period (1800’s), none had taken place in Colonial Africa, with this subject matter. There were so many thoughtful elements woven throughout; the disparity between the majestic landscape, and the atrocities that were taking place in it; the treatment of women, and the box they’re often put in. A Historical Romance – heavy on the “historical”, light on the “romance”. 8.8 ⭐️

Watching.

I’m going to admit straight away that I had a hard time with this one. After news overload this week, I allowed it to take me down a sad, dark hole. We have to be so mindful of that, now, more than ever, don’t you think? Even though it wasn’t “enjoyable” to watch, the (true) story was so poignant – a component of this great tragedy I had never considered: how do you determine what each person is “worth”? An unimaginable position to be in, and the stories shared from the victims, their loved ones, and the brave people who sacrificed everything was beautifully told, and so moving.

Listening.

Are you a deep belly breather, or more of a shallow chest breather by nature? I am the latter and it has been one of my wellness goals of late to learn to “breathe better”. Did you know that how you breathe can affect brain and metabolic activity, inflammation, and pain? Enter, the Wim Hof Method. I have been doing this every morning when I get ready for the day, and this week even Jon and Grey have joined in. Don’t be intimidated by the long breath holds – start with what you can handle and work your way up. It is an incredible surge of energy, concentration, and willpower. If you try it, I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Feeling.

Sending you a warm squeeze ?.

Trying.

We hit up Costco after our anniversary dinner this week, per Grey’s request ?, and snagged THIS wizard of a cleaner. I held off for a long time thinking it couldn’t possibly pick up pet hair and mop the floors at the same time – oh was I wrong. The first clue was another shopper in the aisle who insisted we buy it because it “changed her life”, and the second clue was after I dumped the maiden bucket of water and it was black. FIVE stars ⭐️

‘Is Tom Cruise on board?’ What the code used by cabin crew means (and why you don’t want to hear ‘That’s my ABP’ when you’re on a flight)

If you’re in need of an exquisite gift, this initial necklace is impeccable quality – customizable from amazon (but doesn’t come in their packaging so they’ll never know – super fast shipping, looks more expensive than it is (and on sale)! It’s too good!

The best fall vacations. I’m packing now. Who’s with me?

My super thoughtful neighbor surprised me with this personality quiz book this week. What a fantastic hostess gift idea, or a fun surprise to send to a friend who loves a good brain exercise. Thank you, Angi ?

Are you practicing this at home with your partner? A great reminder for all of us!

I saw a video of him blowing glass on Pinterest and couldn’t take my eyes off these ?. Don’t they remind you of Cinderella?

Fall wreaths feel so expensive this year – but there are so many gems on Etsy (and great ideas if you’re making your own) ⭐️.

How to repair sun damaged skin after a long, hot summer.

Making it my mission to learn to veganize and de-gluten these ?.

Have you every wondered why there is a tiny pocket on your jeans?

Highlights of the week: celebrating 15 years with my love (and him surprising me with the best vegan meal I've had in a long while), joining Grey at school for lunch with mom & dad, and refreshing my mindset. I feel so thankful for each lesson, and all the love I get to feel, and share - every day. What are you thankful for this week?