Hello from the 59th day of January! ? Kidding obviously, but is this month crawling by at a snail’s pace for anyone else?
After being hit with a few snow storms over the past couple of weeks, it finally feels like the season that shall not be named has officially arrived. That said, even though there’s a 4′ high mountain of shoveled snow at the end of our driveway and we’re 128 days into January, I can’t help but feel like spring is maybe, sort of, hopefully, kiiind of in sight?!
I’ll wait for you to stop laughing.
Hear me out. For one, I think the sun is definitely staying out a littler bit later each night, and for another, Ben and I are planning a spring break trip. Could not be more excited! We were going to try the Outer Banks but just learned that March is not a great time to visit, so I’m thinking Florida (Destin is looking delicious,) or Sedona, AZ, possibly. Decisions, decisions! Have you gone on any family friendly vacations somewhere WARM recently ? I’d love to hear about them. :)
In the meantime, here’s what else is going on in the latest edition of Currently!
Time and place: 7:37pm on the couch in front of the fire. It’s cold and I’m cozy. Even better, Ben is picking up sushi for our dinner before we settle in to put a dent in our DVR.
Watching: We’ve watched a couple hilarious comedy specials on Netflix recently. First up is Ellen Degeneres Relatable. Truly the woman could sit in a room breathing and I’d probably laugh, so needless to say we were both cackling the entire show. SO funny. Seth Meyers Lobby Baby is also hysterical and I’ve shared it with every mother I know. If you have kids (and Netflix, I suppose!) you have GOT to see it. We also watched Adam Sandler’s 100% Fresh which was essentially about absolutely nothing, but funny nonetheless simply because it’s Adam Sandler. No one else could have pulled that special off!
Loving: Art for Kids Hub. Lincoln is really into drawing right now – I’ll have to show you his self portrait sometime, it’s incredible! – and as such we are really into the Art for Kids Hub website/YouTube channel. It’s run by a super charismatic guy, Rob, who draws everything under the sun with his four kids in a fun and easy to follow format. Highly recommend for your babes who love to draw, and/or YOU if you’re looking for a five minute escape. I’d forgotten how fun and relaxing drawing can be.
Cleaning: Old blog posts. The time has come! I’ve been writing Iowa Girl Eats for nearly 11 years now (WHO WHAT HOW WHY?!) and an archive overhaul is long overdue. Over the past month I’ve been going through each and every single post on IGE, starting from the very beginning, and either deleting ones containing photos like the one below (an ACTUAL picture I INTENTIONALLY included in a post in 2010. I think it’s scallops? Maybe?) or re-directing old recipes to newer, updated ones. It has been very bittersweet re-reading all those posts – my 20s were pretty simple! ;) I’m up to 2012 and thought I’d recap 2009-2011 for you:
- Chipotle Burrito Bowls. So many burrito bowls. Documented and shared ad nauseam at least once a week.
- Trips to the HyVee Salad Bar. Maybe this is why Ben and I were both so slim and trim back then – we ate gobs of salads.
- Kitchen Sink Salads. I repeat, so many salads!
- Red Box Movies. Should have had a separate channel on this site reviewing all the Red Box DVDs we watched. I don’t remember 90% of them?
- Tofu, spinach, and brown rice. Apparently this is all I ate for a solid six months in 2010.
- CAPS CAPS CAPS! I just noticed that I am capping the heck out of this post and it’s because I have been so immersed in my old posts! SORRY!!
All that said, if you have an old recipe or something from the archives that you still use, let me know and I’ll make sure it makes the cut. This one did not. ;)
Sipping: Stag’s Leap 2016 Sauvignon Blanc. Dry January is…moist? Not bone dry but not soaking wet. Ie, I’ve made a few exceptions for my very favorite wine on the planet right now – Stag’s Leap 2016 Sauvignon Blanc. Ben brought a bottle of this home late last year, poured me a glass, and I seriously sat straight up. It is SO smooth and just YUMMY. I adore it! Stag’s Leap is one of the wineries I visited back in 2012 with my girlfriends. Take me back…
Eating: Homemade Pad Thai. A restaurant-quality, tamarind-free, homemade Pad Thai recipe is something Ben and I have been on the hunt for for many years – especially after having to go gluten free. Our favorite Thai spot offers “gluten free” Pad Thai but all it is is everything normally included in their Pad Thai minus the sauce. As in, bone dry rice noodles with vegetables. Just…confusing. Anyway, we finally found a winner! Homemade Pad Thai from Tastes Better From Scratch is fabulous! I used a touch less fish sauce than called for, no hot sauce, and no peanut butter. YUM.
Popping: Doterra Peppermint Beadlets. I tried one of these little beadlets from a friend recently and my jaw dropped – so convenient! They’re one drop worth of a peppermint essential oil blend encapsulated in a soft, vegetarian beadlet. Very refreshing and one drop is all you need. You can let them dissolve in your mouth or just snap one between your teeth. Boom, instant fresh breath. These are a great alternative to carrying around mints or gum in your purse.
Bundling: Primary Coats. With spring (kind of!) on the way, I thought I’d re-share the coats from Primary.com that I bought Gwen last fall, since I also later bought one for Cam. We have put them through the ringer both in terms of use and washing – you can run them through a standard wash/dry process – and I’m still so impressed! The puffer coats are lightweight and slim fitting, yet very warm. Cam has worn his in the snow several times now without incident. You cannot beat the price and truly they’re just so fun, bright, and CUTE!
Using: Gotham Pro Steel Skillets. I’d been in need of new skillets for awhile when I bit the bullet and picked up this Gotham Pro steel skillet set I’d seen probably 100 times at Costco. NOTHING sticks to them – not even eggs without cooking spray – they’re dishwasher safe, and apparently can’t be scratched. I’ve been using them for a couple months now and have zero complaints. Can’t beat the price either.
DEVOURING: La Terra Fina Spinach, Artichoke and Parmesan. Speaking of Costco, I randomly bought this dip there a couple weeks ago and it is honest to goodness Top 5 most delicious things I’ve ever eaten. I know that sounds insane, but apparently I’m not alone. I shared the dip on Instagram stories and received countless messages from people who can’t buy it anymore because they have no self control around an open tub. Umm, hi, yes, relatable. It is so delicious that it’s the first and last tub I’ll ever buy. TOO GOOD!!!
Treating: NadaMoo. Have you heard of NadaMoo? It’s a coconut milk-based ice cream product that tastes exactly like regular ice cream. That is so hard to do with coconut milk! My sister in law raved about their Peppermint Bark flavor earlier this winter, a friend brought over the Banana Caramel Crunch and Peach Cobbler flavors when Lincoln had his tonsils out in December, then I pulled the trigger on their Marshmallow Stardust recently. They’re all better than the next! I don’t even really like ice cream that much, and don’t eat a ton of sweets to begin with, but I am in love with this stuff. The only flavor I haven’t been thrilled with is the Cookie Dough Fudge, unfortunately. I was so excited to find a gluten free cookie dough ice cream but it has a strong coconut flavor. FYI, most but not all of their flavors are certified gluten free.
Blinking: Gwen is 1-1/2! Gwen turned 18 months this week and I am in shock! These have been the fastest 18 months of my life. It’s so cliche to say, but I feel like it was just last month that she was sleeping right next to me, and now she’s housing tuna salad, adorning herself in as many necklaces and bracelets as she can find, and doing her gosh darn very best to keep up with her brothers. She does a pretty good job! Our Gwen, Sis, Miss Sis, Sis Sis, Sister Sue, Baby Girl, Peanut is absolute perfection and we are all deeply obsessed. Love this perfect little thing!
Pick a Currently category and fill me in!
sarah howard 01.24.2020
I just got nostalgia for your old posts. You’d even post twice a day sometimes! Anyway, i’m wondering if those pans can go in the oven? And also going to be the 500th person to say I’m just finishing “Cheer” on Netflix and am kinda sad because it was so good and i don’t want it to be over.
Bonnie 01.24.2020
Enjoy going through your archives! Please keep those old Friday Favorites posts – loved it when I could look for 1-10, 11-20, etc. Great for inspiring different recipes, enjoying cute pooches, travel places I must go, etc. I’m not a fashion person, so anything that’s out of style now will be lost on me anyway!
Sara 01.24.2020
Ahh love the old posts!
Outer Banks was a favorite family vacation a few summers ago. If you want the hookup on a GREAT house rental, let me know! It has a pool, hot tub, sleeps a big family comfortably and is super close to the beach in a really lovely area.
Lea 01.24.2020
If you need another Netflix comedy special, I definitely recommend Mike Berbiglia’s The New One. It had us rolling.
Stacey 01.24.2020
Your Mac and Cheese is a staple recipe at my house, please don’t archive the recipe! I mostly make it as the main dish (even took it camping once) but I have also made it as a side for potlucks and Thanksgiving.
Kristin 01.24.2020
That is awesome!! I actually found like 5 mac and cheese recipes while cleaning things up. ? Do you remember which one it was?
Stacey 01.24.2020
I forget what you called it.. but it has the panko crumbs on top. I know how to make the mac and cheese by heart, but I always refer to the recipe so I know how much flour, milk, and chicken broth to use.
Jen 01.24.2020
I have been a reader for ages and remember when it was Eat, Run Travel. :) The Stuffed French onion soup sliders are a STAPLE every summer, bring them back!!!!! Also, I am still planning my Mexico get away to the amazing villa you once went to w/ friends – private chef and all! Someday…
Kristin 01.24.2020
YES – that old, clip art banner. Too funny. ? I will go restore the sliders for you right now – so glad you love them! :)
Jen 01.24.2020
Thank you!! I have loved seeing your family grow. I have a one year old now and appreciate all your infant/toddler insight too. He loves the quinoa sweet potato turkey chili, another staple on repeat in our house. :)
Kathleen 01.24.2020
Your broccoli cheese soup has been my go to meal many a night, the cheese always so smooth. I so enjoy your posts, and literally laugh at loud at your sage comments!! It is fun to see your little ones growing up, a sweet young family. Agree with the long days of January….lets get it over with!!! Scottsdale, AZ is lovely in March……
Kristin 01.24.2020
Oh so glad to hear you love that soup, Kathleen! It’s an oldie but goodie and not going anywhere. ☺️ Note taken on Scottsdale!!
Amy 01.24.2020
Cracking up at that dark picture! I was trying to find your cilantro lime rice recipe yesterday and I think it’s gone?
Kristin 01.24.2020
Right?! What in heaven’s name was I thinking? ? There’s a recipe for the cilantro rice in this post! https://iowagirleats.com/2014/08/29/easy-homemade-burrito-bowls/
Jennie 01.24.2020
Locally where are your favorite GF sushi places?
Kristin 01.24.2020
Wasabi does a fantastic job. I’ve eaten at/gotten take out from the Waukee location dozens and dozens of times and have never gotten ill. They have all GF items marked and your server/bartender will also mark the order as GF if you let them know when ordering.
Lacey Jones 01.24.2020
I can’t believe how much Gwen has grown up! Man these moments go by so fast. I was an early follower, as well, and I loved everything about your blog, salads, dark pictures, CAPS and all! <3
Kristin 01.24.2020
THANK YOU, Lacy!! ??? So lucky to have a long time reader like you. ❤️ And gosh don’t I know it – these past six years for all the kids has gone by in the blink of an eye.
Sbakes 01.24.2020
Highly recommend Destin! Beautiful beaches with white sand and Emerald green water. Plenty of activities but doesn’t feel overly commercialized. Excellent restaurants – Pepito’s, Lulu’s and Merlin’s Pizza!
Kristin 01.24.2020
Thank you for the recommendations! The water and sand are what I’m really eyeing!
Megan 01.24.2020
I’d definitely recommend Destin for your vacation! The only thing is that because it’s on the panhandle March can have cooler temps and chilly water. But it’s very family friendly (also, anywhere along 30A, not just Destin!).
Kristin 01.24.2020
Ah ok – that’s good to know! Thanks for the tip, Megan!
Jacki 01.24.2020
Just have to say your currently posts are always my favorite. The No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecakes is how I found your blog so don’t delete it… EVER! lol and the artichoke dip is one of our favs. It is good warmed up too… if you haven’t tried that :)
Kristin 01.24.2020
It stays just for you, Jacki! ;) I tried that dip every which way – including dipped into with sliced Costco rotisserie chicken. I’m convinced there is no bad way to eat it! ?
Julie Lienemann 01.24.2020
If you like Netflix comedy specials, please try Nate Bargatze-The Tennessee Kid-Heeeelarious!
Kristin 01.24.2020
Oh my gosh, I will, thank you!! We also loved Ronny Chieng’s special – a littler darker than Ellen and Seth, but insanely funny.
Liz 01.24.2020
Thanks for your blog, I always look forward to new posts. You have been blessed with a beautiful family! And yes, January is long and cold (here in Connecticut, too!) but lets not rush it. Life is too short :)
Kristin 01.24.2020
Thank you Liz! Stay warm!
Cj 01.24.2020
PS… Come to OBA. Easy drive, no commotion, white sand.
Valerie 01.24.2020
Where is OBA? Sounds like a great spot. I’ve hear of OBX for the Outerbanks.
Cj 01.24.2020
Tried the lemon twist Sabra hummus…dont!?? It’s so amazing! PS I’ve been following you from the get go. Adorable y’all!
Kristin 01.24.2020
Oh my gosh, I’ve heard it’s incredible. I already have a hard time not polishing off the caramelized onion and olive tapenade flavors in two sessions. ?
Allison 01.24.2020
Just wanted to say I recommended your blog to mixandmatchmama this morning. I follow both your sites and her daughter was just diagnosed with celiac so I knew she could get some great recipes and tips from you.
Kristin 01.24.2020
Thank you so much, Allison!! I just clicked over to her site – that photo of her daughter’s full body rash breaks my heart. Thank you again for passing along my site as a resource for her and her family! <3
Sara Burnette 01.24.2020
I also recommended your site to Mix and Match Mama. I make your recipes all the time and we’re not even gluten free. Thanks for your delicious recipes!
Susanna 01.24.2020
If you’re planning a trip to OBX, May and Sept are probably the best times to go! The summer months are great too of course, but definitely busier (I live just a couple hours away and have gone as long as I can remember – holds a sweet spot in my heart)
Kristin 01.24.2020
Thank you for the tip, Susanna! Where is your favorite spot to stay / beach(es) to visit?
Angela 01.24.2020
Aw, I’ve been a reader since the beginning and I remember all those phases! And your morning Mom walks, and pink lady apples. <3
Kristin 01.24.2020
Oh my gosh, SO many pink lady apples. ??? You have a great memory. Thank you for being a loyal reader, Angela!
Michelle 01.25.2020
Happy New Year! I would go with Sedona plus a trip to the Grand Canyon.