Embracing the New Year: Family Joy, Culinary Delights, and Sweet Anticipation
Happy Sunday and a joyous Happy New Year to everyone! As we step into a fresh start, I’m reflecting on a truly memorable and intimate New Year’s Eve celebration right here at home with our wonderful boys. It was a sweet, cozy affair, perfectly tailored to their little hearts. We indulged in their ultimate favorite meal: crispy chicken nuggets and golden tater tots, followed by the effervescent delight of root beer floats for dessert. There’s something incredibly special about these simple, cherished moments that create lasting family memories, and seeing their faces light up with pure joy is simply priceless.
As bath time commenced, Shawn, ever the enthusiastic planner, brought out a collection of festive New Year’s decorations. We then orchestrated our very own mock countdown, syncing it with an absolutely enchanting Disneyland Paris NYE Countdown video. The magic of Disney, even from our living room, made the moment incredibly cute and undeniably perfect, filling our home with laughter and excitement as we welcomed the new year together, albeit a few hours early for the little ones.
Once the boys were tucked snugly into bed, Shawn and I embarked on our own “epic” stay-at-home date night. It was an evening dedicated to sophisticated flavors and quiet togetherness. I meticulously prepared a gourmet feast featuring rich and creamy lobster bisque, perfectly seared filet mignon, tender roasted broccolini, delightfully crisp roasted potato stacks, and to culminate the culinary journey, decadent lava cakes for dessert. Each dish was a labor of love, designed to create a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of our home. It truly felt like the most fitting and meaningful way to bid farewell to the old year – just us, savoring delicious food and each other’s company, dreaming of the possibilities that 2021 holds. The quiet intimacy of the evening was a beautiful reminder of our journey together and the simple pleasures that truly enrich life.
Weekly Culinary Adventures: Healthy & Delicious Recipes to Inspire Your Kitchen
This past week has been a whirlwind of culinary creativity, and I’m thrilled to share some of the wholesome and flavorful recipes that have been gracing our kitchen. If your New Year’s resolutions include embracing healthier eating or exploring new dietary paths like Whole30 or Keto, these recipes are designed to delight your taste buds without compromising your goals. Each dish is crafted to be both nourishing and incredibly satisfying, making healthy eating an enjoyable journey rather than a chore.
Fresh & Flavorful Creations
Starting off the week with a bang, on Sunday, I unveiled my incredibly vibrant and aromatic Whole30 + Keto Chicken with Mediterranean Salsa. This recipe is a true testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish bursting with fresh, zesty flavors. It’s an excellent option for a nutritious and delicious dinner that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to prepare. The Mediterranean salsa adds a refreshing kick, perfectly complementing the succulent chicken, making it a fantastic choice for those looking for a light yet fulfilling meal.
Tuesday brought a taste of the sea with my highly requested Whole30 + Keto Fish Tacos. These aren’t your average fish tacos; they’re packed with tender, flaky fish and topped with a creamy, spicy coleslaw that adds the perfect crunch and tang. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that’s both fun to eat and wonderfully healthy, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for clean eating. If you’re craving something fresh and exciting, these tacos are an absolute must-try.
Mid-week cooking was made effortless on Wednesday with my Whole30 + Keto Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas. This recipe is a dream for busy evenings, requiring minimal cleanup and delivering maximum flavor. Imagine perfectly seasoned chicken and vibrant bell peppers, all roasted together on a single sheet pan, creating a fragrant and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. It’s a testament to the convenience and deliciousness of sheet pan cooking, making healthy dinners a breeze.
And to round out our week of culinary delights, on Saturday, I shared my adorable and incredibly delicious Whole30 + Keto Mini Meatloaf Muffins. These individual portions are not only convenient for meal prep but also a fun, kid-friendly way to enjoy a classic comfort food in a healthier format. They’re packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to any family meal plan or a quick, satisfying lunch. Each of these recipes offers a unique blend of flavor and nutrition, proving that clean eating can be both delicious and incredibly rewarding.
Simplify Your Week: Introducing the January Keto Weekly Meal Plan
Planning healthy meals can often feel like a daunting task, especially when trying to adhere to specific dietary guidelines like Keto. That’s why I was so excited to share my Keto Weekly Meal Plan this past Friday. This carefully curated plan is designed to take the guesswork out of your weekly cooking, providing you with a seamless and delicious path to achieving your health and wellness goals. It’s more than just a list of recipes; it’s a comprehensive resource crafted to simplify your life and make healthy eating accessible and enjoyable.
Within this plan, you’ll find direct links to all the recipes, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips. But the convenience doesn’t stop there. I’ve also included a printable menu template, allowing you to easily visualize your week’s meals, and a detailed grocery list template, which organizes your shopping by category, saving you precious time and preventing those last-minute dashes to the store. Imagine walking into the grocery store with a clear, organized list, knowing exactly what you need for a week of delicious, Keto-friendly meals. This meal plan is an invaluable tool for anyone looking to embrace a structured approach to clean eating, reduce mealtime stress, and stay on track with their dietary commitments. Make this the year you conquer meal planning and enjoy the benefits of consistent, healthy eating!
Catching Up: Instagram Highlights & Life Updates
My Instagram has been buzzing with a mix of personal reflections, fitness inspiration, and exciting news this past week. It’s a space where I love to connect with you all beyond just the recipes, sharing snippets of our family life and the journey of health and happiness. Here’s a rundown of what’s been happening on my feed:
My Weight Loss Journey: Embracing Progress, Not Perfection
On Monday, I shared a powerful throwback to my first weight loss before and after photo from December 2019. This post wasn’t just about the physical transformation; it was a deeply personal message about self-compassion and resilience. I strongly believe that if you’re ending the year feeling heavier than you started, you should feel absolutely ZERO GUILT. Life throws us curveballs, and our bodies respond to stress, joy, and change. The journey towards health is not linear, and every step, every phase, deserves grace and understanding. You can delve deeper into this empowering message and my reflections on it on my Instagram post here.
To further support those on their own wellness path, I also recently updated my comprehensive Weight Loss Post. This post is a treasure trove of information, covering all the frequently asked questions about how I achieved my weight loss goals by eating clean Keto and Whole30. It’s packed with practical tips, insights, and answers to common queries, making it the ultimate go-to resource if you have any questions about adopting a Keto lifestyle or simply want to learn more about my personal journey. Consider it your essential guide to understanding the principles and practices that have worked for me.
“The Year We Stayed Home”: A Love Letter to Shawn
For Christmas, I penned the longest and most heartfelt love letter to Shawn, chronicling “The Year We Stayed Home.” It was an emotional and cathartic exercise, spanning six pages, filled with reflections on the challenges, joys, and unexpected intimacy that 2020 brought. Reading it back, it brings tears to my eyes – the happiest kind. It’s a testament to our resilience, our bond, and the beautiful family we’ve built. I shared a little snippet of this deeply personal letter on my Instagram on Thursday, and I invite you to read a glimpse into our year of love and growth by clicking here. It’s a reminder that even in unprecedented times, love finds a way to shine brighter.
Baby on Board: What’s In My Hospital Bag at 37 Weeks!
This week marks a significant milestone in my pregnancy – I am officially 37 weeks pregnant! The anticipation is palpable, and my heart is overflowing with gratitude. Reaching full term is a blessing I don’t take for granted, especially considering that my first son, Josh, made an early arrival. This time, every day closer to meeting our new baby boy feels like a small victory. To help other expectant parents, I’ve diligently packed my hospital bag, and I’ve shared every single item I’m bringing. If you’re expecting a baby soon, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to what’s in my hospital bag here, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the big day.
My Top Nine of 2020: Family First
As the year drew to a close, I compiled my “Top Nine” Instagram photos of 2020, and the results were incredibly touching. I often assume that everyone primarily follows along for the food recipes and culinary content, so it was a truly humbling and honoring experience to discover that my most liked photos of the year were predominantly of me and my beloved family. This reinforced the beautiful connection we share beyond just the kitchen. It’s a reminder that authenticity and sharing genuine moments resonate deeply. I am immensely grateful to each and every one of you who follows along, not only for trying my recipes but also for sharing in the little snippets of joy and chaos that make up our family life with our boys. Your support and engagement mean the world to me.
Exciting News: Peloton Giveaway!
To kick off the new year with a burst of energy and excitement, I am hosting an incredible giveaway on my Instagram! Today and throughout the entire week, one lucky follower will win a brand new Peloton Bike! This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the excitement of studio cycling into your home and join a vibrant fitness community. The Peloton has been a game-changer for so many, offering engaging workouts and a powerful sense of motivation, and I cannot wait for one of you to experience that joy. Don’t miss out on this amazing chance to elevate your fitness journey – you can head directly here to enter and find all the details!
A Heartwarming Family Celebration: Dad’s Birthday
This past Tuesday was a joyous occasion as we gathered to celebrate my dad’s birthday! We hosted a wonderful family party at our home, keeping it casual and fun with everyone’s favorite: ordered burgers. It’s always so heartwarming to have the family together, especially seeing the sheer delight on the boys’ faces as they watched their Papa (my dad) excitedly open his presents. Of course, the grand finale of any birthday celebration, the cupcakes for dessert, were an extra special hit with them, adding a sweet end to a lovely meal.
The most precious moments often unfold during the simplest routines. Watching my boys snuggle with my mom and dad, whom they affectionately call Deedee and Papa, during bath time is just the sweetest thing. These are the moments that truly fill my heart, observing the pure, unconditional love that flows between generations. It’s a beautiful reminder of the deep family roots and the special bond our children share with their grandparents.
The evening continued with another cherished family tradition as my mom and sister took turns reading bedtime stories to the boys. Their voices filled the room with warmth and comfort, creating a truly magical end to the day for our little ones. After the boys were finally asleep, the adults stayed up for some playful competition: a lively game of poker for quarters. It was absolutely hilarious and so much fun! We laughed, strategized, and thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company, so much so that we’ve decided to make it a new weekly family tradition: “Poker Night Tuesdays!” It’s these moments of shared laughter and connection that truly make life rich and memorable, and I’m already looking forward to our next game.
Weekly Favorites: Kid Fun, Pregnancy Comfort, and Humorous Insights
Kid Favorite Of The Week: Bouncing into Joy!
This week’s undisputed kid favorite comes courtesy of my amazing sister, who proved herself an absolute hero! On a particularly rainy Saturday, she surprised the boys with this fantastic little bouncy castle, and let me tell you, it was an immediate and monumental hit! The boys spent a glorious four hours playing together, bouncing, giggling, and burning off endless energy, stopping only for a brief dinner break. Seeing them so happily engaged and entertained indoors on a dreary day was pure magic.
As a mom who’s 37 weeks pregnant and moving a bit slower these days, this bouncy castle was truly a godsend. Shawn and I could comfortably sit on the couch, sipping our drinks, and simply watch them play. Their unbridled joy and adorable laughter filled our home, making us smile at how incredibly cute our boys are. For any parents looking for an excellent indoor activity, especially when weather keeps you inside, I cannot recommend this bouncy castle highly enough. It’s a fantastic investment in kids’ fun and parents’ peace of mind!
Little Luxury Of The Week: Sciatica Relief in Pregnancy
This week’s little luxury was an unexpected but much-needed find during a big stock-up trip to Costco. I was incredibly excited to discover they had a precision massage gun available! This pregnancy, I’ve been battling the absolute WORST sciatica, to the point where I find myself waddling and limping significantly more than usual. The discomfort can be intense and relentless, making even simple movements a challenge.
This massage gun has truly been a lifesaver. Every night before bed, Shawn diligently massages the back of my legs, and it feels nothing short of heaven. The targeted relief it provides is unparalleled, easing the tension and pain that has plagued me. If you happen to spot this precision massager at your local Costco, especially if you’re experiencing similar aches or just love a good massage, I wholeheartedly recommend adding it to your cart. It’s a small indulgence that makes a world of difference for pregnancy comfort and overall well-being.
Funny Story Of The Week: The Joys of Late-Stage Pregnancy
As I navigate the final weeks of pregnancy, I’ve reached that rather… “unpredictable” stage where my baby boy is quite large and exerting significant pressure on my bladder. This means waking up for legitimate bathroom trips five times every single night. Sleep has become a precious, fragmented commodity, and frankly, my brain is operating on a delightful blend of exhaustion and anticipation.
This led to a hilarious conversation with Shawn the other night that had both of us laughing uncontrollably:
Me: “You know, I’ve been thinking… do you think I could reverse potty train myself? Like, could I just start wearing diapers to bed and actually sleep through the entire night? Because at this point, I would wayyyy rather get a long, uninterrupted stretch of sleep.”
Shawn: (After a moment of bewildered silence, followed by a burst of laughter) “I don’t think it works quite like that, honey.”
Haha! His reaction was priceless, and honestly, the thought was pretty absurd. But a pregnant mom can dream, right?! On the bright side, at least this constant waking is excellent training for those inevitable night feedings once our baby boy arrives. Right? Please tell me I’m right!
Entertainment Corner: What We’ve Been Watching & Reading
On the Screen: From Uplifting Musicals to Heart-Pounding Thrillers
This week, our viewing habits spanned the emotional spectrum. First up, I absolutely adored The Prom on Netflix! It was hands down the funnest, most uplifting girly movie I’ve seen in a long time. The vibrant performances, catchy songs, and heartwarming story had me smiling and laughing throughout the entire film. It was the perfect dose of feel-good entertainment, a true delight for anyone looking for a joyous escape. Highly recommended if you need a pick-me-up!
In stark contrast, Shawn and I also rented the movie Unhinged. This film was incredibly suspenseful and, honestly, really well done. However, being this close to having a baby, I’ve adopted a strict “good vibes only” policy when it comes to my entertainment choices. About 30 minutes in, the intensity and psychological thrill started to freak me out a little too much, and I had to make the executive decision to stop watching, haha! While I genuinely appreciated its quality, my pregnant brain just couldn’t handle the stress. BUT! If I weren’t currently living in my self-made bubble of calm, I would have absolutely loved to keep watching and finish it. Shawn stayed up and confirmed it remained gripping and concluded with a solid ending. So, if you’re not in your third trimester, it might be a great choice for a thrilling movie night!
Lost in Pages: Current Reads & Author Recommendations
In the realm of literature, I recently completed Ready Player Two over the Christmas holidays. Having devoured “Ready Player One” years ago, it was an absolute blast to dive back into that richly imagined virtual world. Ernest Cline has a unique way of blending pop culture references with thrilling adventure, and this sequel certainly delivered another engaging journey. If you enjoyed the first book or appreciate a good dose of nostalgic sci-fi, this is a fantastic follow-up.
This week, I also finished reading Comfort & Joy. This book was such a sweet, simple, and utterly enchanting read. What truly surprised me was the twist ending – I absolutely did NOT see it coming at all! The revelation was so profound that it made me want to go back and reread the entire book immediately, just to catch all the subtle clues I missed. I am an enormous fan of Kristin Hannah; her storytelling is consistently captivating and deeply moving. I only have one more of her books left to read, and I wholeheartedly recommend every single one of her works. If you’re looking for emotionally resonant stories with unexpected depths, pick up any Kristin Hannah novel.
Wishing You a Wonderful Week Ahead!
As we wrap up this week’s update, I wanted to share another heartwarming family moment. Shawn’s brother, Byron, and his wife, Alex, gifted the boys this wonderful book of Shel Silverstein poems, and it has quickly become a beloved part of our bedtime routine. The boys are absolutely loving reading through the whimsical and clever verses, discovering new favorites each night. It’s a joy to introduce them to such classic and imaginative poetry, fostering a love for reading and laughter.
From our family to yours, we wish you a truly Happy Sunday and sincerely hope your New Year is off to a spectacular start! May your week be filled with joy, good health, and perhaps a few moments of peace and quiet. We’re looking forward to all the exciting possibilities this new year holds, and we’re so grateful to have you along for the journey. Thank you for being a part of our wonderful community!