I feel like I’m in a bit of warp zone today. We were on vacation for a week, then I went on a girls trip over the weekend, and then to a super bowl party last night… it is going to be 60 degrees today, but it is not yet Valentine’s Day… Is it Monday? Is it still winter? Is anyone else feeling out of sorts? I’m happy to have this morning to get myself re-centered for back-to-real-life and mom duties.
above : Block Print Slate Napkins, here >
I love the downtime of winter (and usually need it after the holidays), but this year I feel like I’ve kept myself running too hard and not had the time to slow down. So, I’m going to give myself a break this month and really try to keep the calendar free of obligations. I’m going to make an effort to let time stand still for a while this week to spend some time inside, bake some valentines cookies, take winter walks and begin some cleaning projects that always help me feel re-organized.
I’m also making an effort to begin eating a little bit lighter. We’ve had many months of slow simmered ragu and piles of pasta dinners, so I’m starting to lean into a lighter and fresher feeling. Probably a result of having to wear a bathing suit in January… when I’ve only been used to layers of turtle necks and puffer vests : )
My Dinner Planning Tablet, here >
Here is what I’m planning for the week :
Apricot Glazed Chicken with the Most Amazing Couscous I like to make this at the beginning of the week because it makes a great leftovers lunch.
Steak & Baked Potatoes Sorry, did I say healthy? I know this does’t really look that healthy, but with a smaller portion of the steak, and maybe roasted broccoli instead of baked potato, it will be balanced. I will not skip the mushrooms and wine sauce, though!
Sheet Pan Roasted Salmon & Vegetables 
I love Sheet Pan recipes. Everything goes on one pan, then in the oven. A sauce from the lemons and olive oil developed naturally in the pan and can be poured over when serving. So good, fresh, and flavorful. *Essential Sheet Pans have been restocked. Penne Pasta with Grilled Chicken This is the sort of pasta that I create out of what we have leftover. Maybe I pull frozen shrimp out of the freezer if we don’t have chicken, and maybe I use peas instead of spinach? It is something easy to throw together on a Thursday night… without having to go to the store. I’ll make an effort to make it 50% veggies and protein and 50% pasta to make it somewhat nutritional.
The Sweetest Sale Continues! Please note, tomorrow is the last day to order Valentines products. Shop the Sale, here >