Slow-Cooker Cuban Sandwiches {recipe}
I thought I didn’t like Cuban sandwiches. I had no reason not to, and had never tried them, but I just didn’t like them.
Then we watched the movie Chef. If you like food trucks and indie movies, add this to your list immediately because the movie was incredible, and guess what – it made me really want to eat a Cuban sandwich.
We’ve found a place locally that serves amazing Cubans – Pinnacle Bar and Grill in Rogers. But then I saw this recipe for Slow-Cooker Cuban Sandwiches in a magazine and had to try it.
It wasn’t quite the same, but it was so easy and made a ton of food. This would be great to make for a football watch party or a family gathering. You make the pork in the crockpot (which is so tender and delicious!!) then anyone can add whatever toppings they want. Of course I would recommend you stick with the traditional Cuban of ham, swiss, pickles and dijon mustard.
Weekend plans complete: Make slow-cooker cuban sandwiches and watch Chef.
Enjoy!
S L O W – C O O K E R C U B A N S A N D W I C H E S
Ingredients
- 2lb boneless pork shoulder roast
- 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
- 6-in. sub rolls (we used King’s Hawaiian subs, but would also be great on a real sub)
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 3 oz. thinly sliced deli ham
- 3 oz. thinly sliced Swiss cheese
- Dill pickle chips
Directions
- Rub the pork with the garlic and salt and place in slow-cooker. Add the chicken stock. Cover and cook on low until the pork is very tender, 7 to 8 hours.
- Pull pork into 1- to 2-inch pieces; toss with the lime juice. Return to slow cooker to keep warm.
- Preheat broiler with the oven rack 6 inches from heat. Split the rolls. Spread the mustard on the bottom halves and top evenly with the pork, ham, and swiss cheese.
- Broil until the cheese is melted, 1 to 2 minutes. Top with the pickles and sandwich with the tops of the rolls.
See more of my favorite recipes here.
xo xo
Weekend Picturebook: Chicago
S A T U R D A Y
[lunch at portillo’s + catching up with my favorite walmartian-arkansan-chicagoans!]
[contemporary art museum]
[pre-dinner drinks at Pop’s Champagne (not pictured) then pizza at the famous Lou Malnati’s! it was amaaaazing]
[post-dinner walk along the beach with beautiful views of the skyline]
[the drake! my beautiful, old hotel in a perfect location]
S U N D A Y
[early morning walk on the beach – it was cold, but totally worth it]
[after the cold, long walk, I deserved this, right?? vanilla bean + chocolate old fashioned from glazed and infused]
[art institute of chicago was incredible – saw some of my favorites from renoir + monet. I could have spent all day in here!]
[cliche bean picture + walk through millennium park – then more walking, eating, and shopping before …]
[the big event – oscars war room! we were certainly exhausted by the end of it, but very proud of a successful campaign]
If you didn’t see the Oscars and are interested in learning more about how we played a part in the night, check out these videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLs6zAwIMDe3MCfYpFAi2PYe9TtUJC3Ig9
xo xo
life lately
[loving this || gorgeous february weather + a walk around lake atalanta]
[eating this || the best fries ever. go to saiwok NOW.]
[celebrating this || valentine’s day with wine, chocolate tastings + photobooths]
[playing with this || adorable little boy for an afternoon]
[swooning over this || beautiful flowers from husband!]
xo xo
happy thoughts
A few simple, happy thoughts for anyone having a tough week
or for anyone who likes happy thoughts.
*It’s 75 degrees in February. Let me repeat, it’s 75 degrees in February. Let porch season begin.
*I spoke to the absolute sweetest old lady on the phone today (who I didn’t know). She started the conversation by telling me her grandmother’s name was Mille and she was the best person she’d ever met. We talked for 20 minutes about names and strong grandmothers and having kids and travel and true love, and it totally made my day. And she ended the conversation by saying it made hers too, because it made her reminisce about her grandmother.
*I’ve seen two amazing, deserving couples get an answered prayer of adoption this week. Their posts warmed my heart and made me praise our truly incredible God.
*This Is Us has been renewed for 2 seasons. Yes, every episode makes me cry, but ultimately this makes me very happy.
*I may be extra busy with work lately, but I still have time to spend with my amazing husband, delicious food to eat and a warm bed to crawl into at night.
*When your mom knows exactly what prayer to send after a rough day –
Feel your panic. Feel your frustration. But keep your eyes and heart open. There’s a part of us, our heart, that knows where we’re going, knows what we need, knows what the next step is. Our heart will lead us on. And God will move us forward.
Oh, and it’s National Margarita Day.
Happy thoughts, indeed.
xo xo
“I hope this song starts a craze”
Lately, Husband and I have been reminiscing a lot about favorite bands, nostalgic bands (often one in the same) and concerts we’ve attended together.
It started a few months back when Husband created a “High School Jamz” playlist. It was such a throwback and we have had so much fun listening to it and singing to it – even as often as last night, belting out our favorite Brand New songs after our Valentine’s Day dinner at home.
Every time we go to a concert, I always think how fun it is and how we need to go to concerts more often. Who doesn’t love live music?? We are so lucky to have an amazing outdoor venue less than 2 miles from our house, and this year they’re bringing several of our favorite nostalgic artists.
We’ve purchased tickets to 3 concerts so far this year – Blink 182 in April and Third Eye Blind with Silversun Pickups in July, and the one we’re most excited about – Radiohead in Kansas City in April. This will be a huge concert to check off the bucket list.
While I’ve been excitedly planning for the upcoming concerts, I’ve also been reminiscing about our early concert days –
Our first concert together was Taking Back Sunday and Jimmy Eat World in Ft. Smith. My parents drove me, Husband (then boyfriend) and friend Nicole down. Sadly these were the pre-smartphone days so I have no photos to speak of, but the three of us still talk about how much fun we had.
[Dashboard Confessional and Brand New, Conway 2006]
With Dashboard lead singer Chris Carrabba + us outside of Brand New’s tour bus
P.S. it was FREEZING and we waited out back for hoursssssss to meet them #WorthIt
[Foo Fighters, University of Arkansas 2007]
This photo was actually taken while waiting outside for the tickets a few months before the show. Somehow I cannot find a single photo of the actual concert even though it was one of the best shows we’ve ever been to. We went with two of our favorite people and stood feet from Dave Grohl as he played for hours and hours and had so so much fun.
[Brand New, Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa 2007]
I don’t remember much about this concert … but glad I found this one picture of the guitarist hanging upside down, ha!
[Dear and the Headlights, Jimmy Eat World and Paramore, Springfield 2008]
With lead singer of Dear and the Headlights
[Vans Warped Tour: Blink 182, Weezer, Taking Back Sunday, Kansas City, 2009]
Of course, I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention our two stops to Red Rocks in Denver to see our new favorite band The National –
[Frightened Rabbit, Local Natives and The National, 2013]
[The National, 2016]
Excited to make more concert memories with Husband this summer and in the years to come!
xo xo
Here’s the thing about Seinfeld …
It’s funny. It’s relatable. It’s pop culture.
Growing up, of course I’d seen Seinfeld reruns on TV, but I never watched many of them. I knew the characters. I knew the soup nazi and festivus, but other than that it was just another TV show.
When Hulu added the entire series, Husband and I decided we had to start from the beginning and see what the heck this show was really about. Of course, now we know, it’s really about nothing. Literally, the show about nothing. We are 5 and a half seasons in (out of 9) and here’s what I’ve realized …
It’s funny.
I mean, I always thought it was funny when I would see reruns on TV, but it is fuuuunnnnnny. Husband and I struggle to find comedies to watch these days that make us laugh out loud consistently, but this one never fails us. I’ve talked to several people who asked, “does it really still hold up?” “is it really funny even to millennials?” YES. YES. YES. It’s easy, clean, good humor. And every episode we talk about how they bring it full circle in the most perfect way.
It’s relatable.
Okay, so we know it’s the show about nothing, but the funny thing is, since we’ve been watching the show we’ve had strange instances where we will personally experience things that we just saw in an episode. For example, we watched an entire episode about saving seats in the movie theater. Two days later, we went to see Star Wars Rogue One and I swear it was like we were playing out that episode. Another example, we watched an episode about getting lost in a parking garage (still one of my favorite eps) and a few weeks later we could not find our way out of a parking garage!
That’s why this show is so funny in such a unique way – you can relate to every episode because it’s the mundane things that happen to everyone. You laugh because you totally get it.
We just watched an episode where the person in the stall next to Elaine wouldn’t give her any toilet paper “I can’t spare a square” – I just know that will happen to me soon, and I will lose my sh*t.
It’s pop culture.
How can I, a lover of all things pop-culture, not watch Seinfeld?? Seinfeld is one of those shows that everyone knows and everyone quotes and if you don’t know it, you feel so left out. Even 20 years later! At a work Christmas party someone brought a mug that said, “The jerk store called …” with George’s face on it. We clearly hadn’t gotten to that episode so I had no clue what it meant, but everyone else did. So we sped ahead and watched it and it was hilarious. Literally ONE WEEK LATER, we were in a museum in Washington D.C. and I overheard someone saying, “The jerk store called …” HA! I understood the reference! It was a proud, personal Seinfeld moment.
What are your favorite Seinfeld episodes or favorite quotes?
xo xo
life lately
{loving this || BEST TRIP EVER to Vegas with an amazing group of people #WhatHappensInVegasStaysInVegas}
{learning this || nude figure drawing class with mom… let’s just say I decided I’d rather be the model, ha!}
{celebrating this || my birthday in style! thanks, work family!}
{planning this || summer trip to Italy!}
{enjoying this || lady gaga concert aka super bowl 51}
xo xo
favorites, round 6.
Things I love and want to share with you, so you can love them too.
LULULEMON: Guys, I never thought I’d be that girl. I tried to fight it for so long. They always said, once you go Lulu you don’t go back, and now I completely understand. Thanks to my sister-in-law over Christmas, Husband and I got our first Lulu gear and instantly became hooked. I can’t even explain it to you, but it just feels amazing. I now have a shirt, sweater, leggings and a scarf and I love them all so much. Yes, it’s definitely expensive, but now I can’t go back.
STILA HUGE EXTREME LASH MASCARA: Thanks to Birchbox for sending me this one because I am now officially obsessed! I try new mascaras regularly, but this one has been my go-to for a while. It gives you volume and length, and it comes in a pretty gold tube. I do supplement with cheaper mascara so I don’t use this up too quickly. I purchase either online or at Ulta.
BENEFIT GIMME BROW: Thanks to Birchbox for sending me this one because I am now officially obsessed! (wait, am I having deja vu??) But for real, this is another one from the subscription service that I now cannot live without. It’s different than other eyebrow fillers because it goes on like mascara, which is kind of strange, but once you see the difference it makes you won’t believe your eyes. I use shade 3, and again purchase online or Ulta.
WOODWICK CANDLES: As of late, I love love candles. And I especially love woodwick candles. I received one as a gift a couple of years ago, and now I buy new ones every season. They make the perfect crackling sound when they’re lit, and it lasts the entire candle. It seems like the noise might be annoying, but it is surprisingly very relaxing. Even husband was skeptical at first and now loves them. You can find good deals at Home Goods and sometimes on sale at Target.
HILLSHIRE SNACKING SMALL PLATES: This one seems kind of random, but I had to share this with you if you haven’t seen these before. I love cheese and crackers, but can easily eat an entire block of cheese when I shouldn’t. This is perfect – it’s the perfect amount for a snack or even for lunch if you add in some fruit or carrots, and it’s delicious! This is great to keep in the fridge just in case. Buy at Walmart!
LAST WEEK TONIGHT WITH JOHN OLIVER: Husband and I are hooked on John Oliver – a weekly 30-minute show on HBO. It’s more than just a John Stewart/Stephen Colbert type show because I truly learn a lot about the week’s headlines and he goes deep into a topic each week that’s fascinating. While he delivers the news very seriously, he also adds in witty commentary. We are aligned to his political beliefs and are often cheering at the TV for saying all the things we want to say.
xo xo
See more of my favorites here: favorites, round 5., favorites, round 4.
birthday week reflection
What a week it’s been.
[a Vegas recovery week. a birthday week. a tough work week. a tough political week. an emotional week. a party week.]
How has it been all those things in just a simple week? As I type this, the ability to describe this week is honestly beyond my words. The rollercoaster of coming off of a Vegas high, down with layoffs at work, back up to an amazing birthday high and down and around again as our new President continues to shock us all.
This world and these lives of ours are very volatile. We have no idea what tomorrow brings. It is even more important now than ever to be thankful for today and all that we have.
As I was driving to work Wednesday morning, head still spinning from the day before, I turned off the radio and started listing all the things I was thankful for right now.
Just to name a few –
A roof over my head. Food on the table. Clean water to drink. A husband who loves and cares for me. A family who is always there for me. Friends who make me laugh and are there when I cry. And an incredible job that does more than just pay the bills.
What an incredible 28 years I’ve had thus far.
It’s as simple as that. If I have those things, I’d say I’m pretty lucky. I gained some needed perspective just by taking those 10 minutes to think about everything God has graciously given me.
The world is not okay, and there are a lot of horrible things happening right now. I have a lot, and I never want to take that for granted, but I also need to work harder for those who don’t have these same freedoms and luxuries as I do.
All of you reading this are amazing people and I love you and I’m so thankful to have you in my life. My hope is you will do the same – take a few minutes before you go to bed tonight or on your way to work in the morning and truly think about what you have and how you can give back to others.
“It is not happy people who are thankful, it is thankful people who are happy.”
xo xo
life lately
{celebrating this || new year’s eve with these fun people}
{getting excited for this || VEGAS and BRITNEY this weekend. pssst – look closely at this picture}
{loving this || a lot of reading and snuggling with my boys}
{enjoying this || dinner and a show (and love and murder) in fayetteville}
{cheering at this || razorback basketball game … and we won!}
xo xo
Book Reviews: Mermaids, Macarons + TV Moms
Mermaids in Paradise – Lydia Millet: This book is funny and spunky and totally surprised me with how enjoyable it was. I’ve always loved anything mermaids so when I heard about this one (a couple honeymooning in the Caribbean stumbles upon mermaids) it sounded right up my alley. It’s a little weird/sci-fi-ish, but still a fun, easy read. Warning: the ending is extremely weird. And if you read it, we must talk about it.
Grade: A
Talking as Fast as I Can – Lauren Graham: What a perfect stocking stuffer from Husband! I adore Lauren Graham and this book was no exception. She is so personable and quirky, and you can literally hear her voice reading the book to you. The best parts of the book were when she talked behind the scenes of Gilmore Girls and gave you juicy info like you’re an insider. However, if you haven’t watched GG or Parenthood, you might feel a little alienated reading the book.
Grade: A-
Paris My Sweet – Amy Thomas: Another great surprise Christmas gift from Mom! This book follows an advertising copywriter as she moves from NYC to Paris, and eats her way through the City of Light and all the sweets it has to offer. I love both cities and love desserts, so this book sounded perfect for me, as Mom said. (And it was!) It reads like fiction, but is actually non-fiction so the book also gives you loads of places to actually visit in NYC or Paris for the best macaron or cupcake or chocolate chip cookie or anything your heart so desires.
Grade: A-
Executive Presence – Sylvia Ann Hewlett: It’s often difficult to force myself to read these types of books instead of getting lost in a fictitious world, but I’m always glad when I do. This was a very practical book for anyone in the business world. The author shares the qualities of Executive Presence (EP), why they’re important, studies and stories to go with each, then tips for how to get better at each. I thought it dragged on just a touch, but overall I gained some good personal knowledge for my own EP.
Grade: B+
You can read all of my book reviews here.
xo xo
Discover NWA: MOD, Modern Ozark Dining
At the prompting of Husband, I’m starting a new blog series for the new year.
Since my Discover Arkansas series was such a success, I’ve decided to narrow the focus a little bit and do Discover Northwest Arkansas/NWA. I’ve lived in this wonderful area of the state almost my entire life and want to share all of my favorite places with you.
I plan to do restaurant reviews, share itinerary ideas for out of town guests, explore events in the area and at some point make another Arkansas bucket list. If there’s something you’d like to hear about, let me know!
***
For my inaugural post, I want to share my review of a new restaurant in downtown Bentonville – MOD, Modern Ozark Dining.
Via their website – “MOD treats guests to a modern interpretation of the quality and simplicity of Ozark’s seasonal pantry. We enhance nature’s local bounty with our progressive approach to global foods and preparation techniques.”
Here’s the deal – it’s a prix fixe menu with fresh ingredients in a modern space. I’ve been dying to check it out ever since it opened. Lucky for me, I actually won a dinner for 2 (and Razorback basketball tickets, woohoo!) on Facebook so no harm, no fowl. We had heard it was “an experience”, but we weren’t sure if it would be pretentious, not enough food, etc.
Here’s my review via photos –
(Spoiler: we loved it!!)
[Not a big wine selection, but a good mix of cocktails. Next time we will try the signature G&T]
F I R S T C O U R S E
3 appetizers to share
Hot Coal Roasted Onion Ravioli – I can’t entirely remember what this is except that it had cheese in the middle and toasted breadcrumb like things on top. I do remember the waiter said it’s not actually pasta, but the flavors and the different textures were perfect together.
Corn Hushpuppies – I loooove me some hushpuppies, and to be honest, you can get better ones next door at Pressroom, but these were still pretty tasty albeit a little fancy for a hushpuppy.
Brandade – Again, not entirely sure what this is, but this was the best appetizer of the three. First of all, the sourdough bread from Little Bread Co. in Fayetteville was a DREAM. Seriously, I’ve been thinking about it all week. I could eat just the bread, but husband loved the sauce you dipped it in as well – it was cheesy/potatoey/oily and delicious.
S E C O N D C O U R S E
I’m not sure how this happened, but this was our favorite course of the night and I didn’t get any pictures! Shame on me. But it was just that.stinking.good. This course was a departure from the prix fixe. In addition to the set menu, you can add on additional sides. We added two things –
Breadbasket – Two types of bread from Little Bread Co. that were simply divine, and a housemade spiced butter that melted in our mouths.
King Crab Wontons – This. This is what we will remember from MOD. These wontons were simply incredible. They had a housemade sweet and sour sauce drizzled on top that enhanced all the flavors and had you licking the bowl for more. If you go, and these are on the menu, pay the extra money and add them!
T H I R D C O U R S E
Dry Aged Sirloin – We both chose the sirloin for our entree (because when are you ever going to turn down free steak?!) However, there were 3 options to choose from: 1 meat, 1 seafood and 1 vegetarian. I’d say we chose wisely. The steak was cooked perfectly and the surrounding veggies (celeriac, truffled potato pave and grilled romaine) were delicious, even down to the dried cherries on top. If we had only had this to eat, we still would have been extremely happy.
F O U R T H C O U R S E
The dessert was probably my least favorite of it all, but it was honestly exactly what I needed. I didn’t need anything heavy and this little bite of lemon sorbet on a gingersnap cookie (or so I think it was) was so refreshing.
Overall, we decided together this was the best meal we’ve had in Bentonville hands down. The service was impeccable. The atmosphere was clean and modern. And most importantly, we loved every single thing we ate.
I honestly can’t wait to go back and try a new menu. They switch it out about 4 times a quarter, with the 4th being the “best of” the previous 3 menus.
Of course, as long as they don’t get rid of the King Crab Wontons, we will be back.
xo xo
2016: My Top 5 TV Shows + Books
T V S H O W S
5. Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life – Netflix: I have been on pins and needles waiting for this show for a year. Well, actually more than that since I’ve wanted more ever since it ended!! I was so concerned it wouldn’t live up to my high expectations, and while it clearly wasn’t my number 1 for the year, it definitely makes the top 5. There were a few quirks about it I didn’t love, but overall I felt like I was chatting with my old friends again, going to my old haunts and swooning over my old boyfriends (#TeamJess). I binged this all day with a friend and it just made me so, so happy. Full blog post to come soon.
4. The Crown – Netflix: This show is absolutely fascinating. If you have any interest in the Royal family or British history, then this should be a must on your list to get an inside look at the rise of Queen Elizabeth II at 25 years old (crazy!!). The acting is absolutely phenomenal and the show is extremely well made. I can’t wait for more seasons as they introduce Prince Charles and Princess Diana.
3. Younger – TV Land: I love this show!!! This is the show I’m dying to watch every single week and indulge myself in without husband. The characters are so fun and relatable, and makes me wish I was in the publishing industry in NYC. This season they introduced a love triangle that pulls at all the heartstrings. (#TeamJosh) It just ended and I’m already dying for more!
2. Westworld – HBO: I was super skeptical about watching this. All of our friends claimed they stopped watching The Walking Dead and started watching this instead. So while it took me a minute to give it a chance, I was hooked from the very first episode. It is sooooo creepy and will have you seriously concerned about the future of AI, but you won’t be able to tear yourself away.
1. Stranger Things – Netflix: It can’t be a surprise to anyone that this was my number 1 show of the year. We dressed up as the kids for Halloween, and we found and stood in line for a Stranger Things bar over Christmas. If you love 80s nostalgia, being a little bit scared and rooting for a group of adorable kids then put this first on your list.
Way to go, Netflix! Seriously, they are stepping up their game in the original TV show department – 3/5 on my list! Sadly, there were a few shows this year that have been on my list in previous years, but are slowly declining … namely, The Walking Dead.
B O O K S
5. Bread & Wine – Shauna Niequist: I.am.obsessed.with.this.book. I seriously could read it all over again right now. The author shares life stories and intermingles them with her favorite recipes. I felt like I was in her kitchen, living life with her, breaking bread and drinking wine. She is so honest and transparent, and shares her faith in such an amazing way.
4. Along the Infinite Sea – Beatriz Williams: This book captured me from the first chapter. It tells the story of two very different women, one growing up in WWII and one in 1960s America, and how their lives intertwine. This is a dazzling love story that will sweep you off your feet, thanks to the incredible writing. By the end I was bawling and dying for more.
3. The Nightingale – Kristin Hannah: I adored this book! Set in France in WWII following two stories, it was reminiscent of All The Light We Cannot See (my #1 book of 2015). The character development was phenomenal and the writer painted the scenes so well. At one point I was crying so hard because I felt like I was in an internment camp and told husband through bleary eyes how I just couldn’t get over the fact that this happened in real life. Yes, there are some sad parts, but I promise you will not regret reading it.
2. Me Before You – Jojo Moyes: This book surprised me so much by how much I enjoyed it. It had been on my reading list for a couple of years now, and I finally decided to give it a shot when I saw it at the library. It is such a beautiful tragic love story that makes you fall in love with the characters and then cry your eyes out at the end.
1. Brain on Fire – Susannah Cahalan: This is one of those books (like I’ve said before in my reviews) you just HAVE to read! Seriously, go buy it right now. It’s a true story about a 24-year-old journalist who gets very sick, very fast, and no one can figure out what is wrong. You will be fascinated by the medical and biological side of the story, as much as you will the personal and relational side. It’s non-fiction, but totally reads like fiction.
[You can read all of my book reviews here.]
So, in years past I’ve shared my top tv shows, books AND movies of the year. However, as I started thinking about this post, I couldn’t even think of 5 movies we’d seen this year! They say we are in the golden era of TV, and I completely agree. It was a lot harder to come up with my top 5 TV shows because we’ve watched a lot of incredible TV this year.
Of course there are a lot of buzzworthy Oscar movies out right now that I’m dying to see, and I’m literally going to see La La Land in an hour. I’ll go ahead and say my favorite movie of 2016 was La La Land.
xo xo
2016: my year in pictures
J A N U A R Y
bought a new car + celebrated my birthday at downstream casino #BettingOnAMILLEon
F E B R U A R Y
first of (several) work trips to NYC + got pulled on stage during spamalot on our valentine’s day date at the rogers little theatre
M A R C H
a work conference with some pretty decent views
A P R I L
welcomed becky to america with the best party ever + celebrated a beautiful bride at mount magazine
M A Y
(best month ever)
bentonville film festival, fayetteville foam fest + 5-year anniversary in St. Lucia
J U N E
sister-in-law got married + traipsed around california with these people
J U L Y
celebrated husband’s birthday in denver
A U G U S T
mother daughter weekend in NYC + too much fun at a wedding #travkeg2k16
S E P T E M B E R
best labor day weekend ever #tracytrap
O C T O B E R
squad goals at a stranger halloween
N O V E M B E R
an amazing weekend getaway in missouri + a fun week in LA
D E C E M B E R
birthday celebrations with the sistahs + christmas in DC
[a catalog – my year in pictures] 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010
Picturebook: Christmas in DC
C H R I S T M A S D A Y
{Woke up (suuuuper) early and hopped on a plane to Baltimore to spend Christmas with Husband’s dad, stepmom, sister and her husband. We hadn’t spent Christmas with them in a very, very long time so it was extra special. We ate, drank, played ridiculous games and stayed up laughing until 4am.}
M O N D A Y
{Woke up (suuuuper) late (did I mention we stayed up until 4am…which means we had been awake for 24 hours…) then shopped and explored Georgetown, which of course was adorable}
T U E S D A Y
[first day in DC]
{We had so much fun walking around the National Mall and exploring the monuments. My favorite was the Washington Monument behind us. How great is this candid picture?!}
{Stopped for lunch at the famous Old Ebbitts Grill – seriously one of the best reubens I’ve ever had}
{Quick stop at Arlington Cemetery on our way out of the city – it was absolutely gorgeous and I would love to go back and spend more time walking around}
{The boys and their cigars after an amazing fondue dinner at home}
W E D N E S D A Y
[second day in DC]
{The perfect start to the day – Mari’s famous huevos rancheros! We seriously talk about these all the time because they’re so delicious.}
{Holocaust Museum – the museum and this quote in particular were very moving and convicting, a must-see museum in DC}
{Smithsonian Museum of American History – very packed, but very cool. We even saw the Hope Diamond!}
{STRANGER THINGS BAR! You would not believe the line to get in to this place, but it was totally worth it!}
{Dinner at Founding Farmers was incredible! Pictured: Shrimp & Grits with andouille and bacon (more like gumbo), Not Pictured: the best cornbread and fried green tomatoes I’ve ever had, and husband’s chicken and waffles he claimed were the best he’s ever had}
T H U R S D A Y
{Visited the new MGM Grand Casino – played slots, lost money, drank beer, oh and ran into Sarah Jessica Parker selling shoes – no big deal!!!!!}
{Spent the evening exploring Annapolis, which was seriously the cutest town ever. Then stopped in a wine bar and had the most fresh crab tostadas with tomatoes, onion, cilantro and lime juice. It was so good we had to order another round!}
{We then stumbled upon this cute little underground gastropub for our last supper – not pictured, but seriously delicious … pig wings!!}
What a trip! I’m not sure how we got so lucky with such amazing family on both sides, but we sure are thankful. It will be a Christmas we never forget!
xo xo
life lately
{enjoying this || breakfast with the best team everrrr}
{relaxing with this || big poodle by the fire}
{dying over this || meeting harry connick jr. backstage at his show – he’s soooo dreamy}
{making this || beautiful wreaths with beautiful friends}
{eating this || chrissy teigen’s delish chicken noodle soup}
{celebrating this || mom’s birthday at the hip hop nutcracker!}
{planning for this || christmas in DC!}
We have a busy couple of days ahead with several fun Christmases, then we head to DC for the week to see more family. Wishing you all a merry and blessed Christmas!
xo xo
3 years later
Three years ago on December 30, my dad passed away.
It was completely unexpected and by far the hardest day of my life. I will never forget the phone call in the stairwell at work, the torturous flight to Ohio and the surreal days following. I can remember everything so clearly, yet it’s also so hazy at the same time.
I’ve written before about the all-consuming nature of grief and the only constant being change. I write today to offer the hope that things get better. That time really does heal wounds.
I know that sounds so cheesy, and you might not believe me. Here’s the thing – it’s true, but it is also still so hard. Three years later and it is still.so.hard.
There are still days where all I can think about is him, and I just want to lay in bed and cry. There are times when I want to call him so badly to tell him about something at work because I know how proud he would be. Or at weddings when I just wish he was there one more time dragging me on to the dance floor.
The memories are everywhere and there was a time when they would only make me sad. I would immediately push back tears and turn my attention to something else.
But something different has been happening lately – I’m learning to smile and rejoice in the memories instead. A month ago, I found this picture of us from New Year’s Eve 2008. I moved it in to our living room and now see it every day. The last two Christmases I wouldn’t have been able to do that. It would have made me too sad or upset every day, but this year it just makes me happy.
Time does heal, but it never happens in your time. It was three years before I could do a tiny thing like moving a picture. I still struggle, especially through the holidays, but it gets better every day. I don’t think it will ever get “easy” per se, but I think over time there will be less tears and more smiles.
And more pictures.
xo xo
‘Tis the season
Yes, the holidays are craaaaazy. They can be busy and stressful and sometimes we just want to pull our hair out. I mean seriously, I posted this on Instagram yesterday, so I’m with you.
And in all of that, we can so easily let the season slip by without truly remembering the purpose of this season, without cherishing the extra time we have with family and friends and without experiencing that little extra dose of joy.
Here are a few little things that have brought me extra joy this season –
[christmas parties]
[ridiculously big christmas trees]
[gifts from your mom that are just too perfect]
[ugly sweaters + bowling]
[christmas movies in the backyard]
[pure relaxation in front of the fire]
[impromptu photoshoots at work]
[annual date night to see the lights of the ozarks]
What’s bringing you extra joy this season? Take the time to think about it and cherish it, because as they say, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.
xo xo
10 Favorite Wines Under $10
Have a holiday party coming up? Or just like to drink good, cheap wine, like me? Either way, here are some great bottles to stock a party or your pantry.
From L to R:
19 Crimes – Red Blend: This is my go-to affordable bottle to take to a party or someone’s house. It’s good and has a unique label. Each cork has one of the 19 crimes on it; I’m currently trying to collect all 19.
Underwood – Pinot Noir: I don’t normally drink pinot noir, but when I do this is it. And usually, I drink it in the can in the summer. Yes, a can of wine. It’s an amazing thing.
Souverain – Cabernet: This is my latest find and current favorite. I liked the bottle and it was under $10 so I tried it out. I’ve bought about 5 bottles in the last month …
Sledgehammer – Cabernet: This is another one I randomly picked up off the shelves and has become a staple lately.
Cupcake – Malbec: I really like a good Malbec, but typically they’re more expensive. This one is lighter than usual and very easy to drink.
Dark Horse – Cabernet: Funny thing about this one – It was my go-to drink at Sassafrass Vineyard for about $8/glass. One day I saw it in the liquor store for, you guessed it, $8 A BOTTLE. Now I just buy the bottle.
Alamos – Malbec: Here’s another cheaper Malbec that’s good and that I originally found at a restaurant then saw how cheap it was in the store.
Ecco Domani – Pinot Grigio: If I drink white, it’s drink Sauvignon Blanc. However, this is a great, light and refreshing white I really enjoy when it’s hot outside.
Charles & Charles Rosé: Oh, it was the summer of rosé! While this one is a little more than $10 ($11-$12), I had to add it to the list because it is oh so delicious.
Freixenet Negro Brut: Looking for a good champagne that looks fancier than $10? This is it. There are several styles to choose from. I always go for the brut.
What’s your favorite wine for less than $10?
xo xo
life lately
{darkening this || my hair for the winter}
{dying over this || gorgeous views a la runyon canyon in los angeles}
{FINALLY doing this || screenshot from our mannequin challenge, thanksgiving edition}
{loving this || a very thankful turkey day with our amazing families}
{bingeing this || GILMORE GIRLS REVIVAL, DUH!!! of course we spent all day bingeing, eating, drinking coffee, eating, discussing, crying, laughing, eating. remember when we did something similar a few years ago?}
xo xo
P.S. Team Jess!
Food Picturebook: LA
Typically when I go on a trip, I follow up with a Picturebook blog post sharing all my photos and trip highlights.
Since I just did an LA Picturebook in July after my last work trip, I decided to switch this one up a bit. I ate some amaaaazing food on this trip at some amaaaazing restaurants and I just had to share so you can enjoy them too (and so I can remember these places for trips to come!)
Enjoy a look at my latest LA trip via my delicious meals. #FoodPorn
S U G A R F I S H
My coworker would not stop talking about this place since the second we learned we were traveling to LA. “We HAVE to go to Sugarfish in Santa Monica.” So we did, straight from the airport. It was packed and a 45 min. wait (the perfect amount of time to get some shopping in), but it was totally worth it. I’m not an adventurous sushi eater, but oh my gosh it was divine. It was easily the freshest sushi I’ve ever had; I had a blue crab roll and a cucumber roll. Most people get the “Trust Me”, where they bring you all different kinds of sushi and you just, well, trust them it will be delicious. Next time, I think I’ll go for it.
Oh, and did I mention this place is a celebrity hot spot?? So you know that makes me like it even more ….
S W E E T B U T T E R
Okay, so this was another one my coworker kept going on and on about, and guess what, it was amazing. She definitely has good taste. This was an adorable breakfast and lunch spot in Sherman Oaks. We sat outside and enjoyed the Cali weather, a cappuccino, avocado toast and pumpkin pancakes. Is that perfect, or what?! They also had a mega drool-worthy dessert case. (I might have purchased a few things for later … and yes, they were delicious.)
M A L I B U F A R M
I stayed an extra day after my work trip to hang out with one of my high school besties, who now lives in LA. She took me to this incredible lunch spot in Malibu. It sits on the new Malibu pier with absolutely stunning views. We had the perfect seat, on little couches overlooking the pier and sea. We drank mimosas, ate nachos and chatted just like we were back in high school. Unfortunately it was pretty chilly and overcast while we were there, but I will definitely be back and if it’s sunny, you might have to pry me from this place, mimosa in hand.
J O N & V I N N Y ‘ S
So this one has quite an interesting story and is my favorite on the list. About 3 years ago, I read an article in GQ about this new LA restaurant Jon & Vinny’s. Something about the article captivated me – maybe the fact that they deliver pizza AND wine?? Regardless, I sent it to my friend and asked her to please go for me. Well, here we were 3 years later trying to decide on dinner and we remembered the article. We had to go. It was a Sunday night around 6pm, so we didn’t think it would be too busy. HA. Little did we know, they are full with reservations every.single.night. Like, always full. The only way we would be able to get in is if we waited and someone didn’t show up for their reservation. We decided to take our chances.
In the back of the restaurant is this adorable, tiny little wine store called Helen’s with bottles ranging from $15 to $800. We made our way back there to get a glass of wine while we waited and hoped for a table. We stood back there for over an hour and met two of the most interesting, talkative people. It was amazing and fascinating and felt so LA. Just as we were finishing up our convo with the ex-pro golfer who was trying to hide from his family, the hostess told us she could seat us if we could be in and out in 40 minutes.
So we took the challenge, ordered a salad, a pasta and a pizza to share and never looked back. Words can’t even describe how amazing all three were. Sadly this was the only photo I took before inhaling it all, but take my word for it – if you are in LA, you have to go to this place! Just don’t forget to make a reservation!
I N – N – O U T
And of course, I would be remiss if while talking about food I didn’t share my food porn, drool-worthy photo of a California staple – animal style cheeseburger from In-N-Out.
‘Ya hungry yet?
xo xo
Two New Easy Weeknight Meals: Butter Chicken + Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers
Any time I can find a new recipe that fits weeknight rotation criteria (namely, easy and semi-healthy), I consider it a win. In the last few weeks, I found TWO really delicious and easy dishes that Husband and I both love, so of course, I had to share.
I N D I A N B U T T E R C H I C K E N [C R O C K P O T M E A L]
I love our crockpot year-round, but in the Fall I’m itching to use it even more. Sometimes I wish I had two crockpots so I could use one the next night without having to clean the one from the night before … but that would just promote bad behavior, so I resist and clean and stick to one crockpot meal a week.
I was searching for new chicken crockpot recipes and happened upon this one. It’s very different than something we would typically do, but I’m so glad we tried it because it’s amazing. If you like Indian flavors and spices, you need to try this – simply mix the sauce on the stovetop, pour it over the chicken and heat on low for 6 hours.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tsp coconut oil (we’ve had this in our pantry for forever, but haven’t used until now!)
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp cardamom
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 (14oz) can coconut milk
- 1 (6oz) can tomato paste
- juice of 1 lime
- ¼c Cilantro, or to taste
Directions:
- In a medium saute pan, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent and fairly tender. Add garlic, spices, and salt. Cook 1 minute longer, till all the spices are fragrant and amazing. Stir in coconut milk and tomato paste and stir until well combined.
- Add chicken to the slow cooker. Pour sauce over everything.
- Cook on high heat for 3-4 hours or on low heat for 6-8 hours.
- Shred or dice chicken into the sauce, squeeze in lime juice, top with cilantro, and serve with your favorite vegetable or rice – we’ve been using quinoa!
S L O P P Y J O E S T U F F E D P E P P E R S
Fun fact about me – any time I’m staying in a hotel room, the TV will be on going back and forth between HGTV and Food Network. Since we cut cable, those are the two channels I miss dearly, so when I’m traveling (for work or vacation) I get so excited I’ll be able to watch from my cozy hotel bed.
Last weekend we went to Hermann, Missouri for a little weekend getaway. It was time for me and Husband to reconnect, to drink wine and of course, relax. Sunday morning we woke up earlier than usual, so we turned on the fireplace, made some coffee and watched Ayesha’s Homemade on Food Network. I loved the show and loved all the dishes she made, but this one stood out and I vowed to make it. Well, I made it this week and it was a hit. It will be going in the weeknight rotation for sure.
Ingredients:
- 3 large red, yellow or orange bell peppers
- 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- One 14.5-ounce can fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1 cup grated Cheddar
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
- Halve the peppers through the stems; remove the stems, seeds and membranes. In a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, toss the peppers with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt, then arrange the peppers cut-sides up. Set aside.
- Heat the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey and cook, breaking it up, until no longer pink, about 3 minutes. Add the onions, and garlic and cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Season with the cumin, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt and some pepper; stir to combine. Add the tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, vinegar and 3/4 cup water. Bring to a rapid simmer and cook until thickened, about 10 minutes.
- Spoon the filling into the pepper halves and sprinkle with the Cheddar. Pour 1/4 cup water into the bottom of the baking dish and tent with foil (so the foil is not touching the cheese). Bake until the peppers begin to soften, 20 to 25 minutes. Uncover and bake until peppers are very tender and the filling is browned and bubbly, another 15 to 20 minutes.
xo xo
You might also enjoy: 9 Easy Recipes You’ll Want to Make For Dinner Again and Again, Pumpkin Fettuccine
Weekend Picturebook: Hermann, Missouri
You guys – Hermann, Missouri is ADORABLE. I cannot say enough good things about this quaint little town (pop. 2300!!). As we were driving in, Husband literally said, “Do you have the theme song of Gilmore Girls playing in your head right now?” The weather was perfect, the leaves were gorgeous, the streets were walkable, the people were friendly and the wine was flowing. Okay, enough talking, let’s get to the pictures!
F R I D A Y
{welcome to Höehn Haus – our amazing little cottage for the weekend!}
hotel: inn at hermannhof
{how about this bathroom?! with a fireplace! of course I took advantage of it … I took not one, but TWO baths this weekend}
{we got in town just in time to watch the sunset on our patio with incredible views and of course, wine}
{dinner at tin mill brewery – a short walk from our cottage}
S A T U R D A Y
{big breakfast before all of the wineries … have I mentioned yet how amazing our B&B was?!}
{our ride for the day – the wine trolley!}
{first stop: adam puchta – not our favorite, but we got a $5 wine tasting of 8 wines (sips, really) so I’d say it was a win}
{2nd stop: stone hill winery – our favorite!}
{and where we got our best pic of the weekend}
{3rd stop: oak glenn – gorgeous views of missouri river}
{4th stop: dierberg and star lane – this is where we had a very serious discussion about … our first born son’s name. ask us about it.}
{final stop: hermannhof winery – our B&B’s winery, which we loved. luckily it was only steps away from our cottage …}
{though not easy steps … it may not look like it here, but these were treacherous even when you haven’t been drinking wine! and that’s not even our cottage you can see!}
{after a little nap and a little Mean Girls on TV, we walked back in to town for the best post-wine food ever – mac and cheese. and oh my gosh was this mac and cheese amaaaazing. husband got bbq steak and I got bacon and mushroom in truffle oil (mine won)}
S U N D A Y
{a little walk with more beautiful views before the 4 hr. drive back home}
{stopped in at the hermann wurst deli and picked up some brats to take home to cook – who’s coming over this weekend?!}
{and of course, a road trip would not be complete without jack-in-the-box tacos}
xo xo
You might also enjoy: Weekend Picturebook: New York, New York; Weekend Picturebook: Denver
Just rest. And drink wine.
November 1 comes with a myriad of emotions. Joy and childlike excitement for the holidays. Subtle, but ever-present melancholiness for those no longer with us. And often times, stress and anxiety with the overwhelming amount of so much to do, to buy, to see.
We’ve been so busy the last few months, and the next two will be even busier. I love all the things we’re doing and all the people we’re spending time with, but it’s so important to rest – something very hard for me to do sometimes.
A couple of months ago, I had the foresight to book a weekend getaway just me and husband for some pure relaxation together. A weekend of solace in wine country … in Missouri! We heard about this little town called Hermann, Missouri with wineries, breweries and adorable B&Bs. {More on this later – you know there will be a dedicated blog post with pictures and reviews.}
My hope for this weekend is that we can turn off the noise, enjoy each other’s company and re-center ourselves. This way we can go into the holiday season with thankful hearts, a positive attitude and the reminder to sometimes say no to (good) things, and just rest.
Oh, and did I mention I’m staying off social media for the weekend? No facebook, no insta and no snaps … just wine and my husband. Just the way I like it.
xo xo
m.davis xoxo 