Hiiii!!! Hi, hi, hi. :)
Pardon my French, but does anyone else feel like the past two months have totally kicked their ass? Between doctors appointments, errands, school visits, extra curricular activities, snow days, early outs, appointments, and everything in between, I literally want to put my fingers in my ears, close my eyes, and LA-LA-LA my to-do list into oblivion. Oy! I don’t want to complain – more so commiserate with you. I know we’re all feeling the pressures of time and life right now. Cabin fever is not helping. Is it spring yet?
The GOOD news is that we have a new, part-time sitter starting this week. I’ve been working during naps and on the weekends since our last beloved sitter left us back in mid-August, so needless to say I am relieved and excited to sit down and GSD while listening to my guys run around downstairs. Lincoln loves babysitters (thanks, son,) so while I wish I could be a FTM all the time, I know it’s something they look forward to also.
All that said, for these reasons I’ve felt a bit disconnected from the blog over the past few months. Separately, I’ve been using Instagram stories more and more (though oddly not Instagram posts – I can never determine what’s Instagram post vs stories worthy #conceptsIstrugglewith) because it’s a quick and easy way to connect with you. So, if you ever want to see what’s going on in our day to day life, pop over for random thoughts, Costco finds, and plenty of Cameron shenanigans (Lincoln hates being recorded which I totally respect.)
Anyway, since we’re catching up, I thought I’d just do the damn thing and write an entire “Currently” post! Here’s what else is happening in the land of IGE…
Time and place: I’ve sat down to write this post approximately 4 times now, but currently it’s 10:36am and I’m standing at the kitchen counter. I’ve been trying to stand more then I sit lately. Yeah!
Anticipating: Super Bowl. The Super Bowl snuck up on me this year! We were hoping the Vikings would pull through (Ben literally fell off his chair after THAT CATCH during the divisional playoff game,) especially since the game will be in Minneapolis – alas, the Eagles had other plans. Anyway, I’m sharing an early Valentine’s Day recipe with you this Friday which means I won’t have time to sneak in a Super Bowl recipe roundup….so I’ll just do it here. :) Here are my top 10 gluten-free recipes to make for the game this Sunday:
- Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers
- Cheddar Brat Meatballs
- Best-Ever Southwestern Black Bean Dip
- Thai Sticky Chicken Fingers
- Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Shrimp
- Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Sweet Pepper Poppers
- Signature Spicy, Smokey, Sweet Chili
- Warm Fig and Prosciutto Goat Cheese Dip
- Caesar Spinach and Artichoke Dip
- Fiesta Pork, Bean and Green Chili Chili
Loving: Tweezerman Brow Shaping Scissors and Brush. I bought this brow set a few weeks ago and it is wonderful. The scissors are super sharp and nicely angled (vs flat nail scissors) so they’re perfect for trimming a rogue eyebrow hair, or the whole dang thing. Super pleased with the quality.
Cleaning: e-cloth. I don’t know why but over the past six months I’ve become completely obsessed with having clean walls. No idea. First I was all over the warm water/vinegar + rag method, but now I’m loving e-cloths and water. These cloths are comparable to Norwex’s “just add water” cloths but are only $20 for 4. You can use them on almost any surface, including stainless steel, and they remove over 99% of all bacteria (plus crayon – ask me how I know) with just WATER. Love it! My walls and doors have never looked better.
Meh’ing: The Bachelor. I don’t want to sound horrible (says every horrible person before saying something horrible) because these are real people with real feelings, but….OVER IT! Are you with me? I was so annoyed when they announced Arie as the bachelor, which was totally out of left field in the first place, and it’s all just so…ew. While we’re on the subject though, Sienne for Bachelorette!
Baking: Zucchini Banana Bread Muffins. Have you tried this recipe yet? Feedback has been super so far, and if you don’t need to eat gluten-free, you can just swap the gluten-free flour for all-purpose. We’re making our next batch tomorrow.
Reading: The Invisible Workload that Drags Women Down. Part of the proverbial ass kicking I mentioned above… This article is worth a read for any woman in any stage of her life. “Today the amount of sheer hours that men and women spend in combined paid and unpaid work is pretty close to equal. But that doesn’t count the THINKING.” Good grief, the thinking.
Chowing: Eggs and toast. I’ve found myself in a bit of breakfast rut lately that I have no intention of getting out of. It’s far too easy and delicious! Fry up 2 eggs while toasting 2 pieces of bread then butter the toast and top with the eggs plus coarse seasoning salt (love this homemade steak seasoning blend.) Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to the hot skillet then tear in baby spinach plus a sprinkling of seasoning, and then saute until wilted, 30 seconds. DEVOUR. This breakfast couldn’t be easier, takes 5 minutes to make, and keeps me plenty full until lunchtime.
Trying: Annie’s No Sugar Added Whole Milk Yogurt Pouches. I was so excited to see this new to me product at the grocery store the other day. I think I whispered an audible “YESSS!!!” in front of the refrigerator case. Yogurt is a staple for Cameron in the mornings but even a little bit of added sugar in his little baby yogurt cups is irritating. These yogurt pouches contain ZERO added sugar and taste great – very mildly sweet. Sure, I could make the blend myself but the convenience of purchasing a pouch sometimes wins out. Plus my Blendtec started smoking the other day, soooo…
Seeking: Paleo recipes. Ever since reading that those who follow a gluten-free diet (aka myself, and therefore my family when we’re at home) ingest potentially harmful amounts of arsenic from increased consumption of rice, I’ve been hyper aware of how much of it is in our diets. Not because we eat a ton of rice at home – maybe once or twice a week – but because rice is in sooo many packaged gluten-free products. Pasta, bread, flour blends, pizza crust, crackers – I mean, it feels like you can’t get away from the stuff. We swap in cauliflower rice occasionally but I’m looking for other grain free solutions including paleo recipes. I asked my Instagram followers for suggestions this weekend and there were SO many great ones. I filled up this week’s menu in about 5 minutes with recipes from Paleomg, Wholesomelicious, and The Defined Dish. Care to share your faves too?
Trying: Beautycounter. I finally tried Beautycounter and, drumroll please…the jury’s still out! I have uneven skin tone, sun damage, and melasma (from my pregnancies,) that I’ve been trying to clear up for almost four years now and have a literal skin cream graveyard in my bathroom with dozens of products that have made ZERO difference in my skin tone. I keep hearing about the wonders of Beautycounter, and really do care about the quality of ingredients that go onto my skin, so decided to give it a go. I started with their Brightening collection, with a few other products sprinkled in, and want to use everything up before deciding if they “work” or not. I’ll be sure to give you a full update at the end. I personally have been curious for a long long time as to whether or not their formulas worked and if price tag was worth it. That said, stay tuned.
Craving: Kimchi Fried Rice. Ben smoked ribs a few weeks ago and we chopped some of the leftovers up to use in this recipe for Kimchi Fried Rice. Holy moly – so delicious! Kimchi is just pickled vegetables and the sourness with the salty ribs and tamari was perfeeection. Highly recommend.
Watching: Godless. Ben and I recently wrapped up the Netflix original Godless. Woah – what a doozie! The story is set in the wild west (New Mexico and Colorado) in the late 1800s – a time period and location that I am fascinated with – and was so, so good. Very gory and gritty, but binge-worthy too. What Netflix series are you watching right now? Switching gears to HBO – who else is FREAKING OUT that Big Little Lies is coming back for season 2??
Cooking: with American Heart Association. Speaking of paleo recipes, I’ll be cooking a heart healthy dish, which happens to be grain free, this Thursday evening, February 2nd, on Instagram stories to celebrate Heart Month with the American Heart Association! I remember learning several years ago that heart disease is the #1 killer of Americans which is INSANE to me. The good news is that 80% of cardiovascular disease is preventable! We’ve been cooking heart smart(er) since Ben had his health scare a few years ago (which, granted, was an electrical issue versus a heart disease issue – still cooking to achieve an all around healthy heart for him though,) so this topic hits home for me. Tune in Thursday evening for the cooking session or catch the stories for up to 24 hours afterwards. I’ll also be sharing details on how to win an American Heart Association cookbook!
Ok guys – I’ve word vomited enough for one day. Pick a “Currently” category and fill me in with what’s going on with you! :)
Ann C 01.31.2018
I got so excited to see the Annie’s yogurt! But no where near me seems to have it yet :( And for xmas I got SK-II skin crème and vitamin C serum. I have only used it for a month but I can see a huge difference. It is not cheap, so when I have to buy we will see. But I have not made a dent yet at all in a month, so it seems to go a long way. I love it
Ann 01.31.2018
I got so excited to see the Annie’s yogurt! But no where near me seems to have it yet :( And for xmas I got SK-II skin crème and vitamin C serum. I have only used it for a month but I can see a huge difference. It is not cheap, so when I have to buy we will see. But I have not made a dent yet at all in a month, so it seems to go a long way. I love it
Samantha 01.31.2018
I’ve been using honest beauty products (I got the $30 travel/starter kit) and a stacked skincare micro roller and have some awesome results! I ended up with some pretty wicked acne after getting the IUD, which then resulted in scars. For the first time in months I feel comfortable going out in public without makeup!
Tami Black 01.31.2018
Kristin,
I use Merle Norman’s skin brightening cleanser and beauty products and couldn’t believe the difference it made in my skin. I’m 55 and had age spots and I’m using a lighter foundation than when I started because it has eradicated those spots. Made in the USA, I’m loving these products that I resisted trying forever. Give them a try!
I’ve recommended your blog to several of the gals at my church who are looking for gluten free help and you always get rave reviews. I love your recipes and wish Ohio had some of those gluten free products but am still searching for the brands you recommend.
Diana 01.31.2018
Try Nom Nom Paleo! I just discovered it… yum!
julie 01.31.2018
if beauty counter doesn’t work out, you NEED to try Paula’s Choice products. you can get them on amazon and they truly changed my skin. i haven’t had a breakout in forever and it’s evening out my skin tone and lessening the acne scars. not sure what kind of product you’re looking for but the 2% BHA serum is life changing and the skin recovery daily moisturizer is the only daily moisturizer with SPF that hasn’t made me breakout. she has tons of products so it’s worth a look :)
Kristin 01.31.2018
Awesome!! I will totally check out the products. Thank you!
Kayla 01.31.2018
Also just recently tried Beautycounter and love it! I was always a MaryKay girl but felt like there was always a film of moisturizer on my face. After a couple of weeks, I really noticed the difference. I will say my face broke out a little bit, could have also been attributable to the time of the month, but my skin just feels better! And after understanding their mission, I’ve definitely tried to be conscious about not only what my family and I put on our bodies but also what we put in our mouth! Happy February!
Kristin 01.31.2018
My skin is definitely in the “adjustment” phase. The mask that came with the brightening regimen was way too harsh and drying (to be totally fair I have the world’s MOST sensitive skin,) so trying to get back to a good hydration level at the moment!
Traci 01.31.2018
I look forward to your Beautycounter review. I’ve been on the fence about it!
Kristin 01.31.2018
I really hope it works but will definitely let you know either way. :)
Sarah 01.31.2018
I read the article you shared, loved it! We are in a crazy place in life, I just returned to work full time after having our second baby (2.5 y/o and 5m/o). I’m detailed oriented and handle the “thinking” quite well, but sometimes…I don’t. For example, the day my husband asked me if we should keep the Bed Bath and Beyond coupon that came in the mail. And it about had me in tears because I couldn’t make one. more. decision. Those moments don’t happen often and my husband is just as hands on as I am most of the time, but it will never be equal. Articles like this help him understand what’s going on with me sometimes better than I can explain it myself.
Kristin 01.31.2018
I can sooo relate!! Ben is wonderful at sharing responsibilities too but it’s the hundreds of day to day decisions we make as Moms/keepers of the home, etc that can literally drive a person insane. I have so been there with not being able to make one.more.decision.
Lindsay | Bluegrass Bites 01.31.2018
One of my very favorite paleo recipes is from Living Loving Paleo. Her Buffalo Chicken Breakfast Casserole is out of this world! We’re actually having it for dinner tonight. The full fat coconut milk makes the dish extra dreamy.
http://livinglovingpaleo.com/2016/04/29/buffalo-chicken-breakfast-casserole/
Kristin 01.31.2018
Umm, YUM! That sounds so good!!
Kate @ Mom's Radius 01.31.2018
That books sounds so perfect for me. I cannot believe how much is going on in my head constantly. I am thinking ALL THE TIME. That’s part of my I love reading so much. It’s one of the only things that drowns out that noise.
Kristin 01.31.2018
The article is super helpful – a quick read!
Brittany | Words Like Honeycomb 01.31.2018
if beautycounter doesn’t work, give Rodan + Fields a try! I have a super sweet friend that sells the stuff and its the first product I have seen with literal jaw-dropping results…and I am not impressed easily #cynicalcritic
She has sensitive skin, and its HARD to find something to work on sensitive skin!
Kristin 01.31.2018
I tried their Reverse regimen and didn’t see any change. :/ Do you know what products have given great results in evening skin tone?
MARIA 01.31.2018
I have bad hyperpigmentation as well, and have tried everything (rodan and fields worked a little for me but not much) I just bought The Ordinary, it’s super cheap (sold out on Sephora, but check their website) and seems great. Haven’t received it yet, but if you are looking for other stuff to try it has great reviews, especially for hyperpigmentation. once I try it, i’ll try to remember to comment again!
Brittany | Words Like Honeycomb 02.01.2018
Well that STINKS!! The reverse lightening regimen is what i was thinking and it sure looks amazing for some folks but I guess it is just one of those things where it works for some and not others :( Keep us updated though!! Skin is so ever-changing and I have no idea what my pregnancy will do to my skin so i am taking notes!!! :D best of luck!
Kaelin 01.31.2018
You can’t go wrong with the Paleo sites you mentioned, but I can’t not suggest Cassy Joy at Fed + Fit. Her recipes are extraordinary, and she is seriously one of the most genuine people out there! Her soup – http://fedandfit.com/squeaky-clean-chicken-veggie-soup/ is one my current favorites! If I am looking for a healthier alternative to a traditional meal, her site is always a winner.
Kristin 01.31.2018
I will be sure to check her site out – what a glowing recommendation!
A 01.31.2018
Have you watched Stranger Things on Netflix? It’s like they put Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Poltergeist, ET, and vintage Stephen King in a blender and added an excellent cast. It was fun to watch :)
Kristin 01.31.2018
I might be the last person on the planet to watch Stranger Things! Definitely need to get on that.
Erin 02.12.2018
Ugh. We couldn’t get into that one. Tried two episodes and decided that sci fi stuff is not for us.
Jaime 01.31.2018
I have celiac disease and decided to try paleo for a couple months for anti-inflammatory purposes. Really helped but I couldn’t stick with it 100% when I got pregnant and craved all the grains and convenience ;) I love Danielle Walker of Against All Grain. I made your sweet potato noodles with sausage and broccoli (minus cheese) several times as it was paleo and super delicious!!
Kristin 01.31.2018
I have two of her cookbooks that I need to revisit – thank you for the recommendation!
Kate 01.31.2018
I love your currently posts! A few weeks ago when I was in the depths of cabin fever I wrote this one https://iowacity.citymomsblog.com/2018/01/12/currently-scenes-life-snow-day-edition/
Ha! Seriously though—currently I’m sitting in bed eating oatmeal and drinking tea pretending I don’t have to go to work in an hour!
Kristin 01.31.2018
Oh my gosh, I swear I could have written this post – so relatable!
Rachel 01.31.2018
I love Paleo Scaleo and Paleo Running Mama for recipes!!
Kristin 01.31.2018
Thank you for the recs!
Lori H 01.31.2018
Oops, never mind. Sleepy brain. I got to the Kimchi Fried Rice recipe :)
Lori H 01.31.2018
My favorite Paleo recipes come from the blog Nom Nom Paleo. She has a whole section featuring my favorite Christmas gift, the Instant Pot!
Could you perhaps post the Kimchi Fried Rice recipe? The link seems to insist that I have to have a NYT membership to see it.
Love your blog – always great ideas.
Amy 01.31.2018
I’ll second the Nom Nom Paleo recommendation – their blog and cookbooks are the best!
Kristin 01.31.2018
I’m eager to try her cracklin’ chicken recipe!!
JoanneWhiting 01.31.2018
Good post. I liked the way how you had pointed each and every requirements especially super bowl. Kids always create mess but they are lovely.
Kristin 01.31.2018
Very lovely!