influence.

There are a lot of reasons that people blog. To share their family stories, to document a trip, to give style ideas or tips, to share recipes, to voice opinions, and the list I'm sure could continue. When I started this blog, my intention was to provide some of my favorite recipes and random moments in our lives. While I have done that some, I have not exactly stuck with the food theme and that is ok. You see, God has placed it on my heart to post more about Him and what He is doing in my life. Not just on this blog but in the social media world. Social media can get a bad reputation, and there are definitely times that it is abused, but there are also times that it can be so positive. I've tried to make it a point to "like" or "follow" people or groups that point me & others to Jesus. When my Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook feed is full of scripture, encouragement, and love, I can't help but be uplifted and want to share that with others. Sure, you may have moments that you feel you need to vent, or post about "that" person in the grocery store, or complain about the crazy weather or traffic. But if we made more of a point to post about the positives in life--and I believe there is always a positive, always a blessing to be thankful for-- would we not be encouraging each other more? There have been several times that I felt I needed to post a specific prayer request because I knew that my friends would pray with me. There have also been a few times when I felt convicted about a post I was going to do that I later would have wished I hadn't. There are just simply some things that should be left off of social media, handled in private, or just not even acknowledged. I don't ever want to seem like I have everything together or that I am some Pollyanna person all the time. I do strive to keep my focus on God, which then leads to a better attitude. But that is His work in me, not anything that I do. I have my own struggles as well. Selfishness, insecurities, worries, and more. I have learned that when I fill my mind with God's Word, that those struggles are so much easier to battle using the armor He provides (Ephesians 6).

So all of this is to say, I am wanting my social media outlets to be an influence for Christ. I want God to use my posts to speak to people. I want to be held accountable for what I do and say. A sweet, new friend recently called me and told me about the The Influence Conference. It is a weekend conference for bloggers & social media lovers to learn, share, and fellowship with others who are after the same goal: to make much of Jesus. It didn't take much for Brittany to convince me that the conference was where I needed to be! After hearing from her, reading more about the weekend, talking with Dustin, and praying for God to direct me where I should go, I felt that signing up was what I needed to do! The way He has orchestrated the whole thing is amazing! I am so excited to learn more from some women who have been an incredible influence in my life recently, share what God has done in my life, and meet some new friends as well! If this sounds like something you would be interested in, I encourage you to check out the link to the conference website!

A little over three months ago, Dustin and I lived in Kentucky. I was brand new to blogging. I didn't know Brittany. I had read a little bit of the She Reads Truth devotional plans but not consistently. I had never heard of the Influence Network. As we were moving, I felt in my heart more of a pull to have a structured quiet time. I picked back up on the devotional plans. I met Brittany and then she told me about the Influence Conference. I am fully convinced that God has orchestrated the whole thing and I'm so thankful. If you would have told me 4 months ago that all of this would be happening, I am not sure that I would believe you. I wanted to post recipes-- I still do & will (I have a great one that I can't wait to share!). But I want this blog to be more than that. I want to be more than that. My prayer is still to share God's goodness. For Him to use this blog and me for His glory, not mine. I have thought about deactivating my social media accounts to get rid of the gossip, inappropriate posts, negativity, etc. But then I reconsidered. Social media can be used for a much greater purpose-- to reach so many more people with the love of Christ, to encourage, to support, to pray with and for people, and to share God's Word. So that's my intention. Yes, I want to share random parts of our lives. I think God loves us in those random, special moments too! I want to share our favorite recipes that have allowed us to taste His goodness. But more than anything, I want to share His love and truth because it has changed my heart and life. At the end of the day, His Influence is what matters most.

Have a blessed day & be an influence!

7 on the 7th: a few of my favorite things

I have been thinking of some ways to share more on the blog. I always love when bloggers do posts about their "favorite things". I feel like it helps you connect more and also find out about random new things! So my plan is to post 7 of my favorite things on the 7th of each month. It could be anything like products, tips, recipes, songs, books, verses, things, etc. I think you get the picture… My goal is to share things that I enjoy with the hope that you get to know me a little better and maybe find out that we have mutual interests! I would love to hear your favorite things as well so feel free to share them in the comments!

1. The Number Seven

I chose "7 on the 7th" because 7 is my favorite number. It really became my favorite number when Dustin & I set our wedding date to be July 7th (07/07). Once we had that date set, it seemed like everything somehow pointed to seven-- my ring has seven diamonds on each side of the center stone, we got married at 4:30 (4+3+0=7), our minister's grandson is named Seven (no joke! he's adorable!), & then we knew that seven is said to be a "complete" number in scripture. All of those neat coincidences made the wedding planning even more special. To this day I get excited when I find a seven somewhere. This photo is a little hook I found at TJMaxx a few months ago. I just couldn't resist bringing it home! 

2. She Reads Truth

If you aren't familiar with She Reads Truth, I highly recommend you check it out! It is an online community that shares daily devotional plans. If you have a smart phone you can follow along with their plans using the YouVersion Holy Bible app. Just search through their different plans. If you don't have a smart phone, you can find their plans on their website. They have plans for several different books of the Bible as well as various topics. I have really enjoyed and gained so much from the ones that I have done. They also have Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram accounts that I enjoy following as well. The devotionals are so real and true. Each one is coupled with scripture so you are in the Word each day. Love love love it! Of all my favorites in this post, please remember this one & check it out! 

3. Aprons

I really love aprons. I was about 5 when I got my first apron. My Meme made it for me & I would wear it all over the house with nothing on but my Disney Princess panties-- not really a photo appropriate for the internet, & yes there is a photo! It is pink with my name appliquéd on it in plaid fabric. The apron is still at my momma's apartment. I think it would have hurt her feelings if I asked to take it-- plus it's not like it still fits. She's where I get my sentimentality. But I do have these lovely aprons that I adore having up in our kitchen. The green one was given to me by my former boss as a wedding present. I just love the vintage look it has. My momma gave me the one in the middle with cherries on it as a present for my birthday this year. The grey and blue one was given to me by my sister in law. Each one is so special to me! Bonus fact: Dustin made the wall hanger that they are on as a gift for our first anniversary when we were dating. He's just awesome. It started out pink and as a place I put my purses, then when we got married it was painted Florence (Annie Sloan chalk paint) and became a towel rack. Now it holds my aprons and I love it! 

4. Snail Mail

Who doesn't love snail mail!? As much as I love receiving mail, I love sending it even more! My momma taught me at a young age to send thank you notes and letters. We moved several times when I was little so I would write letters to my friends and family. I just love the thought of brightening someone's day through sending a card or letter. Texts and emails are nice, phone calls are even better, but there is nothing like an old fashioned card in the mail. Since we have moved from our hometown it has made my day to get sweet cards from dear friends back home. These vintage seed pack stamps are my favorite. I may or may not stock up each time I am at the post office. I will be so sad if they discontinue them. Pretty postage and stationary are just an added bonus in the whole deal. 

5. Annie Sloan Chalk Paint

I must thank my MIL for introducing me to Annie Sloan. If you are not familiar with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and live in Western Kentucky, mosey on over to Flower + Furbish in Paducah, KY to pick up some of the best paint ever! *Side note: While you are there, allow Sara to design your wedding flowers or your home. She is a genius! She did our bridal party flowers! If you don't live in Western KY, I apologize for not knowing where there are other places to purchase this goodness. So about this paint-- the colors are divine, the application is so easy--no sanding/priming necessary, and the results are splendid! Dustin and I recently painted a corner cabinet in Old White and French Linen. I'm in love with it! I plan to share more photos of that project in another post. 

6. School/Office Supplies

It's that time of year--School Supply Season! I would be lying if I said I don't miss that part of each school year, even through college. In the early years, Lisa Frank folders, stickers, and pencils were THE supplies to have, right?! Then there was the classic, monogrammed LL Bean backpack that I still have. My first year of college I joined a sorority (one of the best decisions that I've ever made) and we received bags with our letters on them from our Big Sisters. In addition to the cute bags, there was/is always the dilemma of finding the perfect planner. I love planners. I have tried several (DaySpring, MyAgenda, Lilly Pullitzer, etc) and each one has been nice but I am still on the search for the perfect planner. I am to the point now that I may try to make one myself. I picked up these lovely supplies a few days ago at Target. The cute mini binder is perfect for me to store sermon notes, prayer requests, and other papers I like to hold onto. I may actually use it to make my new agenda for 2014. The gold striped binder I'm using as a journal for my quiet time. The Paper Mate Flair pens are my absolute favorites. They're like writing with a thin marker. I love them! 

7. Vinaigrettes

I couldn't leave out a recipe in this first post of favorites. I have been on a vinaigrette kick lately. I love vinegar--on fish, on greens, used for pickling, in dressings, and I even clean with it! I love the sour punch it gives. While a vinaigrette is far from complicated, I had never made one until recently. Basically it is oil, vinegar, and seasonings. So simple and so flavorful. Just mix everything together in a jar and use it for anything-- dressing for salads, to flavor roasted vegetables, as a marinade, or whatever suits your fancy. This particular dressing was a Moroccan Vinaigrette. You can follow the link for the full recipe. It is delicious! I have made it twice and enjoyed it on salad, sautéed with spinach, over roasted vegetables, spooned over rice, and added to Beef Curry. Once I finish this batch I plan to try other recipes. Like with other recipes I post, I love that it is using all whole ingredients. No long list of ingredients that sound like they belong in a science textbook. 

So there's my first of what I hope to be many, 7 on the 7th. I hope you enjoy the randomness as much as I enjoyed sharing it! Please share some of your favorites! I love hearing from readers! 

Have a blessed day! 

waiting.

We've all been there. Maybe you're there now. Waiting. Waiting for school to be over already. Waiting to graduate. Waiting for that vacation that's been planned for months. Waiting for that perfect relationship to come along. Waiting for the job you've always wanted. Waiting for the pain from hurt feelings to go away. Waiting to feel settled in and connected in a new place. Waiting for test results to return that provide hope rather than despair. Waiting for a family. Waiting for the sickness to end. Waiting for a moment's rest because there just aren't enough hours in the day. Waiting for the joy that is promised to come in the morning.

Waiting isn't ever enjoyable. I can't say that I have ever been glad when I go to an appointment or out to eat and the receptionist or hostess tells me that my wait is going to be longer. Really?? I'm already hungry and you're telling me that I have to wait even longer to get my cheese dip?? You know the feeling! Regardless of how I feel about it, waiting is inevitable. It is a part of life-- our moms are always right! What I am starting to learn now is that my attitude while I am waiting is my choice. I can choose to be impatient, bitter, frustrated, disappointed, and a lot of other negative feelings. Honestly, I have felt all of those. But I can also choose to cling to the One who promises hope and a future. I can look for ways to praise Him in the midst of the waiting. I can thank Him for all he has done, is doing, and will do because there is always something to be thankful for. When I shift my focus from me, to Him, my attitude shifts as well. Of course there are moments when I share with God my feelings of disappointment or despair. I believe that He wants us to be real with Him! But I also feel like we could be missing His voice in our lives when we are caught up in our frustrations while waiting. I know I have been so blinded to the blessings around me because I was so fixated on the thing I was waiting for. Lord, please help us keep our eyes on You. One way that helps me keep my focus on Him is time each morning in His Word. Starting my day with a fresh cup of coffee and my Daily Bread has drastically changed my outlook and walk with Christ. Having His Word and Truth to focus on and remember throughout the day is so strengthening, especially in times of waiting.

I've mentioned before that I feel that God knows I need multiple reminders of lessons He is teaching me. Often I feel those lessons come through music. While I have zero vocal abilities and minimal musical talent--although I played a mean clarinet in middle school band (Go woodwinds!)--I love music of all genres. I am especially partial to country. One of my earliest memories is being at my Nana's and standing in front of the tv singing along to the CMT music videos-- Shania, Diamond Rio, Alabama, Martina, Faith, you know who I'm talking about! I have also always loved hymns and the songs played on Christian radio stations. The combination of beautiful notes and words of truth is heavenly. Several of our wedding songs were hymns that have been my all-time favorites-- Be Thou My Vision, Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing, Holy Holy Holy, and more. I am an emotional person, without a doubt, and the words in the songs we sing on Sundays (& throughout the week if you listen to the radio or your iTunes) often moves me to tears because they highlight God's beautiful, never-ending love for and devotion to us. A couple of songs have recently been on my heart to share with you. They have helped me tremendously in my times of waiting.

The first is "Help Me Find It" by Sidewalk Prophets. The lyrics are just perfect. "...If there's a road I should walk, help me find it. If I need to be still, give me peace for the moment..."

The second is "While I'm Waiting" by John Waller. Again, beautiful lyrics. "...While I'm waiting, I will serve you. While I'm waiting, I will worship, While I'm waiting…"

What is so awesome about these songs is that I seem to hear them so often when I get in my car. The good thing about listening to Christian radio/Pandora/Spotify/etc is that you will always be encouraged and reminded of truth. For a while there, literally every time I got into the car I heard "Help Me Find It." That is not an exaggeration. For some, hearing the same song over and over would drive them nuts but in this case I was so thankful to hear that message repeatedly.

It has been on my heart for a while now to share these words and songs with you so I had to do it this morning. I hope that they are as comforting to you as they are to me. While we wait, let's choose to worship and serve. While we wait, I pray that God will give us peace for the moment. I would love to hear what songs or verses are helpful to you in moments of waiting. Please share!

Have a blessed day!

farmer's market fridays.

When I think of seasons, I think of food. Ok, honestly, I think of food a lot. But really. Each season I declare my love for that period of time. Then the next season comes and I quickly divert my affections to the new one. Fall time makes me think of pumpkin pie, roasted sweet potatoes, and apple cider. In the winter there's so many yummy dishes to keep you warm-- soups, stews, roasts, and casseroles. When spring rolls around the light, fresh dishes like salads, pasta primavera, and pestos are more appealing. Then there's summer. When it's all said and done, I really do think I love summer food the most. The first tomato sliced fresh from a garden with salt and pepper. The squash and zucchini sautéed with onions. The blackberries that can be eaten by the handfuls or made into cobbler and topped with homemade ice cream. The peaches that make the best jelly you've ever tasted. The strawberries that just need to go in a pie and served with fresh whipped cream. I could go on and on…

One of my life goals is to have a huge garden that provides all of our favorite fruits and vegetables. I know eventually we will make it happen! There's just something about putting the work into growing your own food, knowing exactly what is or isn't on/in it, and then enjoying and sharing the product with your friends and family. Dustin and I have been blessed with family and friends that share the bounties from their own gardens. I think you can truly taste the goodness and love so much more in the "home-grown" foods than the produce you get in the grocery.

Every Friday in our town we have a Farmer's Market. I always love going to produce stands or markets. Not only are you supporting local farmers and vendors, but you usually get great products! The one here offers a nice selection of produce, crafts, flowers, and baked goods.

Last week I picked up some gorgeous zinnias. They lasted several days and added so much color and cheerfulness to our home! 

This morning I met my friend Hillary there. We both stocked up on some delicious local honey! If you have never tried fresh local honey, do it! You will never go back to the imitation stuff they have in stores-- which is typically a combination of honey and other syrups! When it comes to honey, get the good stuff and shop local! I also picked up some gorgeous sunflowers, fresh peaches, and yummy squash and zucchini. 

Speaking of squash and zucchini, you will want to use them in this recipe! Another one of my favorite summer dishes is Vegetable Pie. My Meme makes the best, but this recipe is pretty close to hers! I made this pie yesterday for lunch when some of my dear friends, Rhiannon and Violet, came to visit me. Last minute, I decided to make a homemade gluten-free crust. It wasn't that difficult and I'm glad I did! The recipe for the crust came from simplygluten-free.com. The filling recipe was adapted from Trisha Yearwood's recipe in this month's issue in Better Home's and Gardens.

Vegetable Pie

For the crust: 

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed and chilled

- 1&1/4 cup gluten free flour

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 tsp sugar

- 2 - 4 tbsp ice cold water

Pulse the flour, salt, and sugar in a food processor. Add the cold butter and pulse until mixture begins to come together and form small pea-shaped pieces. Pour in water a tablespoon at a time until the dough begins to stick together. Remove the dough and form into a ball or disc. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. After the dough has chilled, remove it and place it on a well floured surface. Roll the dough out to fit your pie plate or baking dish. Line the dish and create a pretty edge if you feel inclined to do so. 

To blind bake your crust, place wax paper over the dough and fill with dried beans. Bake in a 350 degree preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then remove the wax paper and beans, poke holes in the bottom of the crust with a fork, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes. Then your crust is ready to fill! 

*Note: I had never made a homemade crust before and I was kind of nervous about it. But it wasn't very difficult! If you are in a bind or don't want to make your own, you could easily use a pre-made crust from the store. On the simplygluten-free website, there are several tips, hints, and explanations! Go check it out for more information about crusts. The instructions were really easy and helpful. I didn't follow all of them because I'm a bit of a rebel like that, and thankfully the crust still turned out pretty tasty. A

For the filling: 

- 1 tomato, peeled and sliced

- 1 zucchini, sliced thin

- 1 squash, sliced thin

- 1/2 onion, sliced thin

- 1/2 cup mayonnaise

- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

- 1 tbsp olive oil

- 1 clove minced garlic

- salt and pepper to taste

- basil

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Heat oil and garlic in a skilled on the stove over medium heat. Add onion, squash and zucchini. Salt and pepper to your liking. Cook for about 15 minutes until vegetables are tender. While vegetables are cooking, combine mayonnaise with the cheeses and a bit of pepper and basil. Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture on the bottom of the crust. Next layer the sliced tomatoes, then add the cooked vegetables. Top the vegetables with the remaining cheese mixture and extra cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes. Allow time to set before cutting into slices. 

*Note: The recipe in the magazine also called for water chestnuts but my Meme never used them and I didn't have them. Also, depending on how small/large your vegetables and baking dishes are, you may need more or less of the vegetables. I probably could have added another squash or zucchini because mine were smaller. Also, I added basil to the recipe and just eyeballed it, maybe it was 1/2 tsp? The moisture of tomatoes make this dish kind of watery. Next time I will probably blot them with a towel for a bit. The thing about recipes is that you can experiment with them and make them you own. Keep notes on what works or doesn't and change them to your tastes! 

Do you like going to farmer's markets too? What treasures have you found at yours? What are your favorite summer dishes? I would love to hear from you! I hope you enjoy the goodness of summer produce and try this recipe! 

Have a blessed day! 

quiet mornings.

I'm definitely a morning person. My sweet husband is the exact opposite. Don't get me wrong--I enjoy my sleep, but that usually means that I am in bed at the latest by 9. Lame, I know--you can ask my college roommates. There is just something about the early mornings that I love. The quiet stillness in the house, the glow of the clock on the stove, the sun starting to wake up, the smell of fresh coffee floating in the air, the dew glistening on the grass, the coolness outside. Since we have gotten our two pups earlier this year, they help me get up even earlier. Sometimes, they are super excited and make the mornings not as still and quiet, but other times they can either go back to sleep for a bit or actually play quietly as they are doing now. One of the things I like most about the mornings is easing into the day by having time with the Lord. Just us. This hasn't always been a priority, but I'm so thankful for it now.

Yesterday marked the last day of "7". Thanks to Kirby for reminding me, because I had remembered the wrong day! Total blonde moment. For the last four weeks* we have each consumed only seven foods, while having water to drink. This "experiment" has been one that I have thoroughly enjoyed. While I am a huge lover of all things food-related, taking the time to get back to the basics has proven to be very beneficial both physically, and most importantly, spiritually. Physically, we eliminated those processed foods that really shouldn't be considered foods, which is always a great choice for your body. We also minimized sugar intake to only what occurs naturally in the foods we chose. This combined with appropriate portions, proves to be helpful for a healthy eating lifestyle. 

Note: I included the "*" after four weeks because we both have had our share of exemption meals. When we chose this timeline, we knew that different events such as weddings, work functions, family/friend get-togethers,  anniversaries, etc., would be happening. We never wanted to come across as high-maintenance, selfish, or anything like that. So there were times that we put "7" to the side so that we would be focused on our time with our family or friends. The first time we discussed the exemption meals, we were both concerned about not being "fully committed" but I think that was one of the lessons God was teaching us. We were fully committed to 7. But we are also committed to the relationships we have with others and want to put them before ourselves. That said, we also had times that we "practiced" 7 while with others because we felt lead to do so. 

Spiritually, this process has been a blessing. I prayed that God would use these four weeks to reveal things to us-- and boy has He! My quiet mornings with the Lord have become more dear to me than ever before. My appreciation for the little things is growing more and more. My reliance on scripture has grown stronger. Kirby shared a verse with me one day that was so perfect for this experiment: Paul wrote his second letter to the church in Corinth and in chapter 12 he was sharing about the thorn in his flesh. In verse 9 he wrote-- But he (Jesus) said to me, " My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. I'm not using this verse to complain about "7" or equate it to the trials/hardships that Paul and other Christians faced/face. However, it wasn't always easy to eat the same foods everyday. When we were having our weaker moments, we made sure to focus on the One who gives grace and power to the weak. We wanted this process to be about Him. Not us. 

I say these things not to boast about our relationships with the Lord or what we have done, but to share with you a bit of how He has worked in our lives the past four weeks. Also, I again want to encourage you to try your own process of eliminating excess.  I encourage you to have a "Council" whether that is one or more people for mutual accountability and encouragement! I've been so thankful for Kirby's tests, calls, photos, & prayers! If you haven't read Jen Hatmaker's book, I recommend it. There are six other chapters about the areas of her life that she eliminated excess. Maybe you would feel more comfortable with one of those, or maybe you want to go through the whole process. Maybe you feel like a month is too much. Try a week, or a few days. Or make up your own experiment of avoiding over-indulgence. Maybe you are not interested in 7 at all, and that's ok, too. Whatever you feel lead to do, pray that God will reveal what He would have you to do. I believe that when we pray for God to lead us and work in us, and then we constantly seek Him and His will, He will do just just that. 

Have a blessed day! 

stop & consider.

Happy July, y'all! There's something about the start of a new month that gets me excited. I really love newness in general. (The hubs would probably have some clever comment to interject right now, but I'm not talking materialistically at the moment!) The start of new seasons, beginning a new week, beautiful sunrises that mark a new day full of new mercies, the fresh new page of your planner that is waiting to be filled with events and happenings. This is the newness I love. A fresh start. Another chance to do better than the day, week, or month before.

the beginning of life: beautiful killdeer eggs

another "new" start: our herb garden is sprouting!

Throughout the "7" experience I have been trying to be more intentional about my gratitude-- to others, and most importantly, to God. In this fast paced, always connected world, it is so easy to overlook those  simple moments that really mean so much. This weekend Dustin and I were able to get home for a quick visit. Although we didn't get to visit everyone as we would have liked, we did have some special moments with some of our families. My mom and I got manicures-- one of our favorite special treats. We had supper with our parents and Dustin's brothers and I believe the entire restaurant was educated on the "awesomeness" of Lebron James! We celebrated Father's Day with my dad and granddaddy, and were able to visit with family members that aren't always in town when we are. When you sit down around the table with people you love and share stories, memories, and laughter-- life is good. We were able to spend some time with Dustin's grandparents as well. Dustin and his papa talked about guns, combines, and all kinds of manly, guy stuff and y'all I loved being right there with them. I couldn't tell you a single thing they said, because it was all way over my blonde head but I was so thankful to just experience that sweet moment between a grandson and his papa. I always tell Dustin I could listen to his papa read the phonebook because he just has one of those awesome narrator voices. Even though I didn't really contribute much to the conversation, I was so glad to witness it. Family time is the best time in my book.

I have a DaySpring Planner and my favorite part of it is that each week has a verse at the bottom of the page. I love the constant reminders from scripture each time I check my schedule or add something to it.  One of the verses that has stuck with me is: Stop and consider God's wonders {Job 37:14}. The context of the verse is that Elihu, a young man, is giving some words of wisdom to Job, a man who faced many tests and trials. But how applicable is this verse regardless of whether we are low in the valleys of life, or high on the mountain tops? As I said earlier, we are in a fast paced, connected world. Which can be wonderful at times, but don't you think that there's a chance we are missing out on blessings that we are given because we are too busy updating our Facebook status or uploading a photo on Instagram that we spent 5 minutes editing on A Beautiful Mess? *I am totally speaking to myself right now because I am so guilty of having my iPhone attached to my hand at all times. And by the way, I think social media is fabulous but I think we can miss out on those face-to-face relationships because we are glued to a tiny touchscreen.*

So my goal this month is to stop and consider God's wonders, and then thank Him for them. Ann Voskamp, a Christian author and blogger, has a Joy Dare, where you literally list 1000 gifts from God. There is even a free app where you can log photos of the gifts. While I am making an effort to be more connected face-to-face, I do appreciate this way to archive these gifts. I found an journal I hadn't used and plan to write them as well. I've mentioned before that I need double reminders! I love the greater awareness and appreciation for the beauty in the simple things.

my gratitude journal

So would you join me in aiming for an attitude of gratitude? God's blessings are all around us. We must only take the time to stop and consider. 

four ingredient stuffed peppers.

Today marks Day 3 of "7"... I am not going to post frequently about "7" for a couple of reasons: 1) I don't want to burn anyone out. 2) I don't want to put unnecessary pressure on myself to document the whole thing and miss the whole point. But I wanted to share some realizations I have had the past couple days, as well as a tasty recipe! Honestly, there are moments that I want to call it quits. For example, when I walked by the bakery in Kroger today and smelled the aroma delicious baked goods filling the air, I definitely wanted to throw in the towel. I experience a similar feeling when I look at the coffee maker on the counter and can almost taste the hot, rich java. But that's what this month is about. Sacrificing. Eliminating. Avoiding over-indulgence. Focusing on The One who fulfills every need.

I have also had very special moments. In those rougher instances, I'm allowing scripture to be my solace. As it always should be, regardless of the situation. I am thanking God more for the little things. Again, an act that should be constant no matter what, but honestly not always the case. The cool, refreshing lemon water. The giant, fluffy clouds that suspend in the sky. The text from a dear sister-friend about meeting up the next time I am home. The deliciousness of simple recipes. In just three days I am noticing more of these "small" things and gaining a greater appreciation for them.

Obviously with the focus of this month being on food, I am much more aware of my tastes changing. To say that my mouth doesn't water when I think of a huge plate of fettuccine alfredo covered in parmesan would be a lie. And a huge glass of sweet tea sounds heavenly. But I have noticed a greater awareness of the simple flavors and textures of the seven foods I am consuming this month. I am a huge fan of sauces, herbs, and spices. In fact, we have two cabinets designated for each of these in our kitchen. While I do miss the sweet, floral taste of honey and the smokiness of cumin, it is amazing how delicious dishes can be with simply salt and pepper. Our plan when choosing our foods was to pick ones that could be cohesive and versatile. Trying to come up with different meals with our foods has been fun and interesting. I catch myself thinking of different ideas throughout the day... "Kirby could make breadcrumbs and coat her fish for a different texture... I could make meatballs and cover them with diced tomatoes with chili peppers..." I think that going back to basic, simple recipes and ingredients highlights the true flavors. Tonight's meal turned out to be one that will be reused--both as is and with some additional ingredients in the future. But for only four ingredients, I couldn't believe how tasty this meal was. Dustin was completely honest with me before we ate supper. "Babe, I've never been nervous to eat anything you've cooked until now" were his exact words. Quite frankly, I was nervous, too. I haven't ever made stuffed peppers before and every recipe online had way more than the ingredients I would use. But I tried it anyway and they turned out great!

Stuffed Peppers: "7 Style"

1 pound ground beef 

3 or 4 bell peppers 

1 small can of tomato paste

A few handfuls of fresh baby spinach

Salt and pepper, to taste

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Brown the beef in a skillet. While beef is browning, slice the tops off of the peppers. Remove ribs and seeds, being careful not to tear the sides of the pepper. Place peppers in a baking dish. Salt and pepper the inside of the peppers to your liking. Once beef is browned, stir in tomato paste until combined. Add some water if too thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Fold in spinach. Spoon the mixture into the peppers. Bake for one hour. 

*Notes: I did not measure the amount of salt or pepper I used. I typically taste as I go. Also, I added almost a can of water (simply filled the tomato paste can) when I noticed the tomato and beef mixture was rather thick. I spooned some extra tomato juice on top of the peppers as they were cooking. After cooking, the peppers still had a bit of crunch to them, which we enjoyed. But you would need to cook them longer or possibly cook them some before adding the meat if you prefer softer peppers. Depending on what extra ingredients you add, you could easily stretch this recipe to fill several peppers. Also, be sure to choose peppers that sit up well in a baking dish or use a dish with high sides. 

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we did. 7 AND husband approved = success! So if you ever want a super simple supper, try these stuffed peppers. Of course, add your own flavors. But I encourage you to try it with basic ingredients first just to really taste the goodness of using whole foods. Taste and see.