Eight Things I'm Loving Right Now

1.  Everyone is all about the Pumpkin Spice Lattes. All about the PSLs. However, I'm all about the Pumpkin Spice Americanos. I'm all about the #PSAs. I'm starting a movement. Jump on that bandwagon, people! It's delicious.

2. A bandwagon I have jumped on is Shakeology. But I don't like it. I wish I did because so many do. However, it's expensive so Mr. B is glad I don't. I'm trying my hardest to mix the protein packets with whatever fruit, coffee, nut butter, and milk I can find. A few mixtures I can tolerate, others... not so much. BUT, I am loving the CIZE workout program I signed up for with the Shakeology. It's cardio. It's moving. It's dancing. I am having a blast! LOVE. LOVE. LOVE. Now, I'm looking for another program I might want for Christmas....

3.This breakfast obsession has now turned into a quick dinner love affair. I ate this pear, egg, and cheese combo for five meals straight before I actually realized I'd been eating it for five meals straight. Although I'm currently not eating it for every meal, I am returning to it about every other day. I can't help it, these pears are so juicy right now!

4. Now that school is back in session, kids are overtaking the library. I can't help but love searching the stacks and asking question after question until I find a child or parent the book they're looking for. I love going on these little treasure hunts, whether it's for a school assignment or a book to share at bed time, I love finding something the patron will enjoy.

5.It's fall so that means TV shows are back in full swing. And that actually means nothing to me because we don't have cable, but we have some hi-tech bunny ears that give us access to the local channels. And that means I am loving my Hawaii Five-O and Blue Bloods. The only shows I watch. And last seasons' episodes are now on Netflix!! Woot. Woot. I am a big, huge fan of McGarrett. Mr. B is well aware ;)

6. With the weather changing and all, I'm getting back into the routine of using my doterra difuser at night. I'm obsessed with the Cassia; it's cinnamon fragrance is wonderful and calming, which actually helps Mr. Darcy relax more quickly around bed time. It's fantastic.

7. Trader Joe's Pumpkin Spice Rooibos Herbal Tea. In love. I must have a cup in the afternoon at work. I must have a cup in the evening after dinner. I must say, it is fall in a cup.

8. Oh, and do I need to mention FALL. And FOOTBALL. And chilly weather. And the BEAUTIFUL outside scenery. And APPLES, PUMPKINS, and CIDER! I am so blessed to be living in such a lovely state to experience THE best season. Gosh, I cannot tell you all how much it it my favorite.


With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

Real Life---> Wellness & a Salad

I find it comical that I'm sitting here writing a wellness post for y'all while I'm recovering from the 24-hour stomach flu, which took me out completely this past weekend. And I mean OUT. I missed worked, fretted over program coverage, high fever, dazed and confused for sure. I don't get sick, and when I do it's usually a bout of sinuses and very rarely a head cold. Praise Jesus that I don't get nauseous because I can't handle it. I think it is the worse feeling in the world. Give me a fever. I'll take a whole week of severe allergies if it means I don't have to be nauseous. Lord, help me if and when I become pregnant someday (not that plans for that are soon, mind you.) Actually, Lord, help my husband. I'm sure that will be a definite "for worse."

But after two days of stomaching only soda crackers and a sip or two of Ginger Ale (and then spilling said Ginger ale all over the coffee table rug), I'm feeling much better. Just in time for Monday. Instead of busting out my yoga mat or the new Pilates challenge I was eager to start (just delaying it a day or two) on this dreary, albeit muggy, morning, I'm allowing myself a full day to recover, easing my way back into my routine. So I'm bundled up on the couch enjoying my protein shake, ready to share a few wellness highlights I've been participating in these past few months.

The first involves my place of employment. Over the past year, my job has formed a Wellness Committee in order to encourage its employees to make healthier lifestyle choices by providing diet and exercise motivation. I have the opportunity of serving on this committee and have found it very interesting how differently people view "wellness." Some challenges the committee has organized include:

• "Lose to Win" This was a 12-week program running from mid October through mid December. Each employee weighed themselves on a scale in the office, and whoever lost the most weight/body fat won. Also, it was a team effort, so the winning team won Walgreen's gift cards. (I'm proud to say I was on the winning side of this one.) Yet, I think most employees were discouraged with this program because of the whole weighing-in.
• "Racin' Route 66" was an 8-week program. Those participating calculated the amount of steps he/she took every day. Employees were given pedometers to count the steps. The individual who went the farthest distance received a Fit Bit Flex. Since it was a team challenge, each member of the winning team received Fit Bit Zips. (I now have an indentation on my hip from the pedometer. Ouch.) On a side note: it's actually National Odometer Day.

"Racin' Route 66" was the most recent wellness challenge, and it just ended last week. I am a very competitive person, and to say my team actually came in last(!) is upsetting. Who would have thought the Youth Librarians would end up dead last?! As another co-worker and I joked, next time we pick our own teams. A little competition and humor is good for everyone. Losing is sad, humbling, and motivational, so I keep telling my wounded pride. The goal of the whole challenge: to get people to realize how little they actually walk every day. Instead of emailing or calling, if you can, get out of your chair and walk over to the other person. Instead of playing on the computer or reading on all of your breaks, take a 20-minute walk (weather permitting, or stairs permitting, of course). And from what I overheard throughout the last eight weeks, it sounded like we accomplished just that. We brought awareness to how often we sit throughout our day. And unless I did something outside of work, on the days I worked, I wasn't very active. Unless I have a program going on, I am mostly sitting at my desk. Learning this was discouraging; however, I'm now more conscious of what I need to do outside of work to keep active. I make better use of sunny days and 20-minute breaks. I make an effort to walk around my department more, to walk to my co-worker's desk to speak with her (although she might find this annoying), to take that walk before or after dinner as often as I can. Would I be too nerdy if I told you I'm looking forward to the next challenge?

Source: Google Images

Another little personal "wellness" thing I've been doing, now that more fruits and vegetables are in season, is adding salads to my daily meals. If not adding, then I'm aiming to make one meal a day a big salad. My most recent creation is this healthy tuna salad I've been devouring. Yet, I'm limiting myself with these because I know there is all this talk about high mercury levels in tuna and you shouldn't eat it too often. Oh, but it's so good.

Healthier Tuna Salad with Arugula
Serves 1

1 pouch tuna in water (or 2-3 oz)
2 cups arugula
1/4 c cucumber, chopped
1/4 c bell pepper, chopped
1/4 c tomato, chopped
1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
splash of olive oil
splash of balsamic vinegar
sprinkle of pepper

Layer ingredients in a bowl and top with oil, vinegar, and pepper. Enjoy with a few crackers. YUM-O.

Also it's National Salad Month, so eat up!

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

7 Days 1 Challenge: Seventeen

Okay, y'all, this is the last one and we've come full circle: 52 weeks of mini challenges.

Fifty-two Mondays. Fifty-two opportunities to try something new.

Fifty-two small accomplishments.


*In case you're new to these challenges, the challenge starts on Monday and ends Sunday night. The following Monday I'll post a new challenge.



This week's challenge:

20-minute walk every day.

Hit the trail, the road, or the treadmill this week for a short daily walk. Mr. B and I walked to the park across the street every day it's been nice these past few weeks...which currently are few and far between. But this week it is supposed to be a little warmer (high 50s), so I'm hoping to bundle up in the mornings/evenings and catch a short walk before work or after dinner. I encourage you to get out, too. :)

Who wants to take the weekly challenge? Let me know by sharing your thoughts/struggles and link ups below!


I hope everyone enjoyed these mini challenges. Check out my Challenged page for a list of all 52 challenges!

With Love & God Bless,
Brindi

7 Days 1 Challenge: Fifteen

Oh my goodness, this weather is gorgeous!

My foot is starting to feel better, so the hubby and I took advantage of the sunshine and walked to the park yesterday. It was lovely. It's so nice to see others enjoying the park, especially the dog park. It's feeding my dog fever. I want one. And right now I'm trying to talk Mr. B into getting a Shiba Inu (since clearly my Chihuahua is out of the question).

I mean, come on. How cute is this little guy? I want him. I want to take him to the dog park and have everyone gush over how cute he is. And then I want to come home and snuggle. Because I'm not getting it from Mr. B or Siamese.

Source: Google Images

[Heavy sigh] I digress.

Anyhoo. The challenge.

*In case you're new to these challenges, the challenge starts on Monday and ends Sunday night. The following Monday I'll post a new challenge.


This week's challenge:

Pilates every day.

Source: Google Images

Since my foot seems to be healed (praise the Lord!) I am eager to get back into my workout routine. But I'm up for something different, and Pilates are calling my name. I think it's because the routine is similar to yoga but with more cardio. There are a ton of Pilates videos on the web, so start Googling and get that booty movin'!

Here's a great site to get your Pilates fix.

Who wants to take the weekly challenge? Let me know by sharing your thoughts/struggles and link ups below!


With Love & God Bless,
Brindi

Good Morning!

Just another short inspirational post, "Good Morning" by Mandisa ft. TobyMac.

Every time I hear this song in the car I can't help but MOVE. I added it to my ipod because it's the perfect workout song. (What I really need to do is make it my morning alarm. This would make getting up when it's pitch black out much, much easier.)

I woke up to a brand new day. Annnnddd I saw some sunshine!

God is good. :)

I couldn't find the video with Mandisa and TobyMac, so I hope you enjoy this version.


Now I'm smiling and I'm kissing all my worries goodbye.
Got the feeling if I spread my wings I might even fly.
You are my truth, my way.
Give me the strength to say,
Get up, get up, get up,
'Cause it's a good morning



Also, below is Mandisa's Zumba video to this song. (For you, Mama!)

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

7 Days 1 Challenge: Eleven

This weekend the sun came out and the hubby and I got out doors. We played some basketball (a.k.a making a fool of myself...I'm absolutely awful at basketball and cannot wait to get my volleyball court set up in the backyard this summer) and took a few walks through the park. I am ecstatic to see the sun and to don my shades. I'm up to my eyebrows with cabin fever. I'm tired of waking to a freezing house and having a blanket wrapped around me 24/7. I usually love the cold, but now that we own an older house...not so much. If it's cold there must be snow. If not, then lots of sunshine...but no humidity.

I digress. Onward!


*In case you're new to these challenges, the challenge starts on Monday and ends Sunday night. The following Monday I'll post a new challenge.



This week's challenge:

Cardio every day.

Source: Yahoo! Images

With the abundance of sunshine over the weekend, I was motivated to get outdoors and back to walking/running and fun, physical activity. I also got back into my kickboxing on Sunday. I fell in love with this type of cardio when I was in high school and we had to attend classes for volleyball. Love it. I feel strong, motivated, and in control when I'm kickboxing. AND it's an awesome stress reliever.

This week I challenge you to discover the cardio that works best for you, whether it be Zumba, running, cycling, basketball, swimming, you name it. Find whatever makes you happy and strong, and do a little of it every day (or try something new each day).

Who wants to take the weekly challenge? Let me know by sharing your thoughts/struggles and link ups below!


With Love & God Bless,
Brindi

The Lenten Season

Giving up all electronics one night a week.
Fasting after 7 PM.
No television.
Fasting from dairy, meat, or bread.
Not wearing makeup for 40 days.
Quitting smoking, or swearing.
Not giving out my opinion unless asked for it.

These are some of the answers I received when I asked others what they were doing for Lent this year.  (Read last year's post here.)

I like to remind people that while you are giving up something that takes you away from the Lord, it's important to add something that brings you closer to Him. And you don't even have to go that far. As I say with any fast, you must return to the Father whenever that temptation arises. For example, in January when I fasted from eating after 6 PM, there were many days my stomach wasn't in agreement. Instead of breaking down and filling myself with food, I filled myself with the Word. I turned to God and drew closer to Him. When that late night TV show or cigarette or negative remark is calling your name, close your eyes and bow your head. Call upon the Father in prayer. Lose yourself in Scripture.

On the way to work in the mornings I listen to a great Christian morning show. Today they were talking about the Lenten season and spoke about accordion words, like "good-bye" and "hobo." These are words that stood for something but were shortened. The phrase "God be with you" is where we get good-bye from, and hobo comes from "homeward bound." (Civil War Vets were called hobos as they made their way back to their families.) The hosts were mentioning how people observing Lent can be looked at as hobos, because we're on our way home. We're using this time to bring us closer to God. I really liked this visual.

This year I'm adding something in honor of Lent. Scripture says, "What? know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which you have of God, and you are not your own? For you are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, KJV)

I really enjoy NIV's translation: "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body."

This scripture has been speaking to me over the past few days. God has laid it on my heart, and I'm encouraged to be proactive about it. I haven't been glorifying Him with my body lately. Although I'm always health-conscience about what I put into my body, I'm lacking in the physical part. This past month, I have no motivation when I get home from work. (I partly blame it on the cold weather and the cold house. All I want to do is curl up in a blanket on the couch.) I fear I've become lazy (!) in this department. Even my yoga hasn't been doing it for me. I'm stuck in a rut and need to do something about it.

And, most importantly, God knows I'm in this rut. One thing I know about my Father, he cares about everything involving his children. Even the tiniest things, like my workout routines. He knows how they motivate and de-stress me, how my yoga practice brings me closer to Him, and how I haven't been doing them lately. There's an "answer" for everything in His Word. For this season, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 is mine.

For the next 40 days I'm glorifying the Father with my body. I'm leaning on Him for the strength and motivation to add 20 minutes of physical activity (not counting my yoga or story time programs at work) every day this Lenten season. I need to get out of this rut! My body needed a wake up call, and I got it.

Are you observing Lent? What are you giving up or adding this season?


Enjoy this video by Matt Maher. "40 Days" is a cartoon-like/illustration video on Maher's interpretation of Jesus' 40 days of temptation in the desert.

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

7 Days 1 Challenge: Five

I really enjoyed my morning mug of hot H2O with lemon, and I heard great things from those of you who participated. I hope you continue to add it to your morning routine....it's easy to do when it's freezing out!

Actually, I constantly have hot lemon water, tea or coffee in my hands because Mr. B won't let me turn the heat up. It's currently 55 degrees in our bedroom. I'm very fortunate for our space heaters and my electric blanket. AND our fireplace! But, I'll be honest, I don't want to pay that electric bill either. (Our cable bill is high enough....ugh.) So, I spend my days in front of the fire curled up in a blanket with a hot beverage in hand and a book in the other.

But, let's move onto week five's challenge.


*In case you're new to these challenges, the challenge starts on Monday and ends Sunday night. The following Monday I'll post a new challenge.



This week's challenge:

Week of 100s.

Source: Google Images

Monday: Plank for 100 counts each
Tuesday: 100 Calf Raises
Wednesday: Pilates 100
Thursday: 100 Pushups
Friday: 100 Leg Lifts
Saturday: 100 Russian Twists
Sunday: 100 Plie Squats

Each day this week, I challenge you to a new exercise. A hundred of them. That's it. You can complete each one however you choose: 10 sets of 10 throughout the day, or back to back, or do all 100 at a time. It's completely up to you.

I've included a link to a video demonstrating each exercise. Just click on the exercise names above and good luck!

*NOTE: For Russian Twists, you don't need the step or the weight, just the motion, and touch the ground on each side.

Who wants to take the weekly challenge? Let me know by sharing your thoughts/struggles and link ups below!


With Love & God Bless,
Brindi

7 Days 1 Challenge: Forty-Nine

Goodnight!

I have no idea what day it is. Ever since I crossed the state line into "That State Up North" I haven't been myself. Ughhhh.

I apologize for the lateness, but here is this week's challenge.


*In case you're new to these challenges, the challenge starts on Monday and ends Sunday night. The following Monday I'll post a new challenge.



This week's challenge:

Change up your workout.

Put a new pep in your step by trying a new workout or picking up an old favorite. With the pounds of sugar and butter that await me in my kitchen (and possibly everyone's kitchen over the holidays) this is no time to slack. So, before you find yourself in a rut, find a new sweat routine!

Who wants to take the weekly challenge? Let me know by sharing your thoughts/struggles and link ups below!


With Love & God Bless,
Brindi

7 Days 1 Challenge: Twenty-Eight

Okay. Sooooo, what habit did you get back into? I was able to get back into my crossword puzzle three days last week. I'm slowly getting back into it with my morning coffee....but sometimes my body would rather sleep just a few more minutes and then rush around like a crazy person before leaving the house in the mornings. Yet, I'm working on it.

But it's Monday and we're moving on!

*In case you're new to these challenges, the challenge starts on Monday and ends Sunday night. The following Monday I'll post a new challenge.


This week's challenge:

Morning Yoga

I can't wait to have the privacy of my own home to do my yoga outside.

I recommend everyone find a morning practice that works best for you. My yoga routine each morning is a max of 20 minutes. I do it right after I stumble out of bed (and having my mat right by my bed is a huge motivator), and it helps my body to wake up easily and more quickly. By the time I've finished, I'm full of energy and ready for my morning coffee. (Of course, there are a few days where my body would rather sleep just a few more minutes and then....well, see above.)

Who wants to take the weekly challenge? Let me know by sharing your thoughts/struggles and link ups below!

With Love and God Bless,

Brindi

7 Days 1 Challenge: Twenty-Five

Last week's challenge was super tasty. I went all out and was, of course, overly ambitious and thought about all of the new recipes I was going to try. However, reality set in and my busy schedule stood in the way. But here are a few that I did make: Spicy Black Bean Burgers which were amazing! I actually made a double batch again yesterday to eat on all week....they're also great crumbled up in a salad. This Key West Grilled Chicken was Mr. B's favorite dish this week (and it's super easy). These frozen Greek yogurt dipped strawberries and blueberries were awful, ugly and did not turn out. Yuck. Crescent Pizza Rolls are my new favorite snack for football season. And I made Martina McBride's Zucchini and Mozzarella Tart (as seen on The Chew) for dinner Sunday night. DE-licious! Even though I discovered some great dishes, Mr. B is pretty happy we're getting back to some familiar favorites.


So....Monday = New challenge-day!

*In case you're new to these challenges, the challenge starts on Monday and ends Sunday night. The following Monday I'll post a new challenge.



This week's challenge:

Strength Training Workout Daily

Grab your weights!

I don't care if you have a set of 2-pounders or 20-pounders, grab 'em and go!

Whether you're carrying them on your daily walk, using them as part of your ab routine or busting out the iron for some toned arms, this week's challenge is all about strength training. Good luck and have a blast!

Who wants to take the weekly challenge? Let me know by sharing your thoughts/struggles and link ups below!

With Love and God Bless,

Brindi

7 Days 1 Challenge: Twenty-One

I just want to say the No TV Challenge was actually super easy for me. Not having to worry about watching my show(s) gave me more time. I didn't have to rush through making dinner or my Bible devotional. And this challenge only reminded me that I don't really like TV. It is one technology I could do without....until football season. Then it's attached to my hip on Sundays.


Anyhoo, it's Monday and that means a new challenge!


*In case you're new to these challenges, the challenge starts on Monday and ends Sunday night. The following Monday I'll post a new challenge.



This week's challenge:

Stretch every morning and night.

Source: Yahoo! Images

I used to do a simple and quick yoga routine every night before turning out the light and diving under the blankets. It allowed me to get any stress from the day out of my body and off my mind, resulting in a night worth of really great sleep. But I've been so busy the last few months that I just stopped and completely forgot all about my routine. And my body is paying for it. I can tell. The last few nights I've had crazy charlie horses (some people call them stingers). Hands down the.worse.pain I have yet to experience. I know they only last a couple of terrifying, paralyzing and excruciating seconds, but it feels like forever. Tears come instantly. I end up crying for a few minutes. My calves are tender for the next few days. Charlie horses are the devil.

Back in high school when I played volleyball I used to get them in my forearms every once in a while. Ouch. Getting them in your neck is even worse. I always fear I'm going to be paralyzed.

Ugh.

Anyhoo, I've noticed that I tend to get these if I haven't been stretching. And lately, I have not. Friday night my body reminded me.

So, I am for sure getting back into my routine. The yoga stretches only take a few minutes. I do five Sun Salutations in the morning and a few yoga poses right before bed. These stretches work wonders.

Join me in stretching out the kinks!

Who wants to take the weekly challenge? Let me know and share your thoughts/struggles and link ups below!

With Love and God Bless,

Brindi

Sunday Sweets

Every other Sunday I post a blog sharing my favorite finds from around the Internet and my current obsessions.

Enjoy my first Sunday Sweets of 2012!

What I Had For Breakfast Today: A strong cup of black coffee, clementines and blackberries. Sooo good.

Favorite Fashion Find: Found these boots here. Love. They look so freaking comfortable! Yes, definitely a sweet deal.

Sweet Entertaining Idea: Great for a Christmas party or New Year's Eve party. So fun.

Favorite Snack Idea: I can't wait for fresh strawberries to be in season again. I want to start snaking on these frozen yogurt strawberries immediately!!

Favorite Craft Idea: One of my many new projects for the New Year. This is such an awesome idea, I just need to find somewhere to hang it....

Favorite "Want To Do Right Now": I want bangs again, and I'm loving this look.

Current CD Obsession: I just adore Miranda Lambert, her voice, her music and her look. LOVE.HER. I cannot get enough of her new album, Four the Record.

Current "I Want!":  These are just the cutest! I love the color and lace and everything.

Favorite Mouth-Watering Dish: I want to make this Purple Potato Salad immediately because it's potatoes and purple! Who knew food was sooooo pretty?

Daily Smile: Heehee. More like daily laugh out loud for a good minute.

What I Can't Get Enough Of: I love Larabars and need to start making them at home because it can get pricey when all I want to do is eat these all day.

Sweet Fitness Move: Love the lunge and twist.

Favorite Place: Who wouldn't want to ring in the New Year in this jaw-dropping, romantic, rustic hot tub?

Favorite Must-Make-Soon Dessert: These Raspberry Lemonade Bars would be perfect for Valentine's Day.

Best Day Brigthener: We are never more fulfilled than when our longing for God is met by His presence in our life.      -- Billy Graham

Check out my other Sunday Sweets!
Sunday Sweets #1
Sunday Sweets #2
Sunday Sweets #3


*For my last week of the December 60-Challenge I continued my focus on 60 minutes of yoga. I have a great love for yoga for several reasons, and I'll be posting on that soon!



Have a Happy, Happy New Year! How did you ring in 2012?


With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

Baking with Jessica

It's the holiday season and that means a lot of baking.

Although I start my baking right after Thanksgiving [in case you don't know, my cookie list is always a mile looooong ---> check it out over here], I always make time for baking with my best friend Jessica. To say I.love.this.girl. is an understatment. And this, my friends, was our 5th "Annual Baking Extravaganza!" (Usually our friend Kylee joins us in our annual baking day, but Kyboo is in Indiana this year with her new hubby....and we missed you!!!)
























Every year we get together and make as many cookies as we can fit into one day before we get bored and end up kicking ourselves because we just had to make so many cookies in the first place.

And guess what? This year was no different. Honestly, I don't think we'll ever learn. But, hey, where's the fun in that?

To start off our "Baking Extravaganza," Jess bought us Starbucks!!! And I tried the new Caramel Brulee Latte...so good.

Now that we have our beverages, it's baking time.

Getting back to business......

This is Jessica in her cute apron that her mother-in-law made her. I need to find material so Karen can make me one, too. STAT. I'm thinking various blues to match my kitchen's blueberry theme.....

Anyhoo, Jess and I decided to make our Browned Butter Cookies (the original recipe always makes way too much frosting so we have to double the dough, which means we always make these cookies around Christmas), Lemon Drops (cookie dough Jess bought from a fundraiser), my infamous Lavender cookies (Jess actually introduced me to this recipe...but I make these darling cookies perfectly), Shortbread cookies (Jess loves these) and Apricot Pinwheels (I made a batch last week but had some jam leftover). I also planned to make scones, which we never got to...because we're quitters. (Actually, we just ran out of energy and day time, literally.)

However, when Jess and I get together, it's not baking without a few catastrophes.

Catastrophe #1 came when Jessica accidentally dropped the measuring cup into the spinning KitchenAid. Thankfully the cup was plastic, and the KitchenAid destroyed that sucker instead of the other way around. That would have been a KitchenAid murder. So when the cup fell in, the flour flew out showering her nearby laptop (which was sitting on the counter because the recipe was online).

Death by KitchenAid.

I think it's time to bring out the wine.

Why, thank you, Jess.

In all of this chaos, we completely forgot about lunch. Around 2 'o clock we were hangry. Good thing I brought up my delicious, heart-warming Potato, Broccoli and Coriander Soup. (You can check out this Cooking Club recipe here.) And Jess threw in some leftover baked sweet potatoes. Yes, we could live on potatoes, and we did in college....Jess and I consumed a lot of potatoes. I think this soup will become a part of our "Annual Baking Extravaganza."

MMMM....delicioso.

Once our bellies were full, we were back in the game. Next up: rolling out the shortbread dough. Jess and I groaned at the idea of frosting millions of tiny Shortbreads, so we came up with a genius plan. Color the dough! We cut the dough into thirds and colored them blue, green and red. No frosting required.....GENIUS!

Around 5 pm we had to put our baking on hold and pick up Jessica's little man from daycare. Love this little boy! He just turned one last week. Once we got him home, we made dinner. Myles was hangry. haha

Mmmm, peas, couscous and chickpeas (I think). Look at him growing up and feeding himself. I can't believe how big he is!

Our dinner also consisted of couscous and peas. So simple, yet so gosh darn delicious. [Ignore my hunk pat of butter. Once the baby got his, we needed to season ours.]

After, it was back to the cookies.

Enter Catastrophe #2.

These shortbread cookies refused to come off the pans, resulting in this beautiful Christmas crumble mess of blues, greens and reds. Jess was snacking on the bigger crumbs, and I thought they would taste great on ice cream. 1) Too bad Jess didn't have any ice cream; 2) Two people making a billion cookies really don't need ice cream; and 3) Had there been ice cream, I still would have been all over that.

Yes, we were defiitely losing energy and interest by this point. Shoot, it was gone well before we picked up Myles. Probably once the wine was brought out.

Enter Catasrophe #3.

As I was "pinwheeling" the apricot jam, this being our third pan of these mouth-watering cookies, I hear a huge crash in the dining room.

"Jess?"

Short pause.

"Brindi, you are going to kill me."

I walked into the room to find a huge pile of our delicate Apricot Pinwheels in a crumbled mess on the floor. All I could do was laugh and complain that if she was just going to throw them on the floor I wouldn't waste my time making them so pretty as Jessica swept up our mess while we ate salvaged what we could.

Twelve (12!) hours later we finally cleaned up the disaster we created in the kitchen and packaged our cookies.

Ugghh....I don't want to see another cookie until next holiday season.

Merry Christmas!

**And on a side note, this week has been so busy that I made it a point to focus only on yoga 60 mintues each day for my December 60-Challenge this week.

Browned Butter Cookies with Caramel Frosting

*adapted from Betty Crocker's Christmas Cookies

Yields 4 dozen cookies (or more if doubling batter)

1/2 c butter

1 c packed brown sugar

1/4 c milk

1 tsp vanilla

1 egg

1 3/4 c flour

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

Preheat oven 375 degrees. In heavy saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until butter is light brown; pour into large bowl. Cool 5 minutes. Stir in brown sugar, milk, vanilla and egg. Stir in flour, baking soda and salt. On ungreased cookie sheets, drop dough by rounded teaspoons 2" apart. Bake 8 minutes or until almost no indentation remains when touched in center. Cool 1-2 minutes. Cool completely on wire racks, about 30 minutes.

Frosting:

1/2 c butter

1 c packed brown sugar

1/4 c milk

1 tsp vanilla

2 c powdered sugar

While cookies are cooling, in same saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Stir in milk. Heat to boiling; remove from heat. Stir in vanilla. Cool to lukewarm, about 30 minutes. Gradually stir in powdered sugar. Spread about 1 tbsp frosting on each cookie.

Have a very blessed Christmas Eve.

Christ the Lord is why we celebrate this wonderful holiday. People tend to forget that as they bustle about buying gifts and baking up a storm. Please take time today to reflect on our Savior and his sacrifice, which brought our salvation. The following are a few of my favorite Christmas Eve Scriptures.

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."      --Isaiah 9:6

"When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, 'Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.' And they went with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they saw it they made known the saying which had been told them concerning this Child; and all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them."       --Luke 2:15-20

"For the grace of God has appeared for the salvation of all men, training us to renounce irreligion and worldly passions, and to live sober, upright, and godly lives in this world, awaiting our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all iniquity and to purify for Himself a people of His own who are zealous for good deeds."       --Titus 2: 11-14

"When the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of deeds done by us in righteousness, but in virtue of His own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the Holy Spirit, which He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that we might be justified by His grace and become heirs in hope of eternal life."     --Titus 3: 4-7

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi

Sunday Sweets

Every other Sunday I post a blog sharing my favorite finds from around the Internet and my current obsessions.

Enjoy!

First....I have to share this picture of Siamese. I took it this morning when I got up around 8 am.



She does not look happy. Apparently Mr. B has been up since 5:30 am, which has cut into her beauty sleep.

Oh, and I woke up to this!



It's Bea-utiful! Last year at this time we were knee deep in the middle of our first blizzard, but this is all the snow I've seen so far this season. I want more! If it isn't a white Christmas, then it's a Christmas failure. You can bet I'll be wearing my PJs backwards, flushing ice down the toilet, sending up an extra snow prayer, and sleeping with a spoon under my pillow....? (I don't know; that's what I was told...crazy, but I'm on it if it'll bring snow!)

OK, now on to the Sweets....

What I Had For Breakfast Today: My homemade apple butter on toast with coffee. I finally got around to making my apple butter to give to friends and family this season. And, of course, I kept some tasty goodness for myself.

Best Entertaining Idea: Because of my love for all things Starbucks, I LOVE this invitation idea. I don't know why I didn't think of it. This would be great for my book club meetings!

Daily Smile: Trust me, if I could open up a bakery and coffee shop...I would in a heartbeat.

Love For My Future Home: Love the idea of having a place to sit down when putting on shoes. But not a fan of all white, which is just inviting dirt that I'd have to spend my precious blogging time cleaning.

Favorite Mouth-Watering Dish: I'm obsessed with grilled cheese, and one of my favorites is apple slices and Munster. But this looks delish...Bacon, Pear and Raspberry.

Favorite Fashion Find: If I could afford a collection of winter coats, I'd be in heaven. It would be like coffee mugs, wear the one that best fits your mood. (And I adore this color.)

Favorite Craft Idea: Cute way to hang Christmas cards. Will be doing this next year!

Favorite Place: Did I mention I love winter? (This looks like a snapshot from a horse and carriage on the way to Grandma's house...if Grandma's house looked like this.)

Don't You Just Hate That Fact: #373 When a teacher erases the entire blackboard but misses one prominent chalk mark. (Do kids these days even know what chalk is?)

Currently Reading: One of my favorite books; I read it every Christmas.

Favorite New Fitness Routine: Everyone has four minutes.

Favorite Photography Find: Love all of the colors!

Favorite Must-Make-Soon Dessert: This looks too gorgeous to eat. I couldn't find a recipe in my non-existent search attempt, so I will be re-creating this as soon as blackberries are in season!

Best Helpful Tip: Yes, this works. And it's Awesome. If you place a wooden spoon on top, it won't boil over.

Best Day Brightener: We are always in the presence of God.... There is never a non-sacred moment! His presence never diminishes. Our awareness of His presence may falter, but the reality of His presence never changes.  -- Max Lucado

I hope you enjoyed this Sunday's favorite finds.

Was there something you came across this week and just have to share?


Check out my other Sunday Sweets!
Sunday Sweets #1
Sunday Sweets #2


And to keep up with my December 60 Challenge...what this past week looked like:

Monday: 60 minutes vinyasa yoga
Tuesday: 60 minutes vinyasa yoga
Wednesday: 30 minutes vinyasa yoga
                     30 minutes cardio routine
Thursday: 30 minutes vinyasa yoga
                 30 minutes weight training, arms
Friday: 30 minutes vinyasa yoga
             30 minutes cardio routine
Saturday: 30 minutes vinyasa yoga
                30 minutes weight training, arms
Sunday: 30 minutes vinyasa yoga
              30 minutes cardio routine

With Love and God Bless,
Brindi