I'm Baaack

Okay I was MIA for a bit but its only because we bought a house and moved and then Christmas dropped its big tinsel covered face all over us. Now the new year is here and I couldn't be happier. I mean, its -20 outside and dark all the time, but I just love the idea of a fresh year and a fresh beginning.

Anyway, heres what I'm up to:

What I'm Cooking

or not cooking! This is kind of a fake out recipe and I'm totally okay with that. Charcuterie was my go-to food for Christmas. I took it to all events and it was devoured each time.

I know what you're thinking, charcuterie is such a fad right now, and those dang wooden boards are so pricey. It's true. They can be. I have a hack for that too. Go to your nearest Home Depot and head to the flooring isle. Choose one good looking FLOOR tile. I pay about $2-$6 for one. This will be your board. Its not wood, but your cheese will look amazing on it and no one will have a clue where it came from #winning

I don't really have any rules when it comes to a board, just make sure you have something to hit each taste bud - sweet, salty, sour, bitter and umami!! Lay it all out in little piles until the entire board is covered.

Cheese (at least 3, depending on the size of your board)

Crackers/Ciabatta (raincoat crisps are my fave)

Cured Meats

Nuts

Fruit (try something wild like fig or kumquat)

Hummus, Jam, something saucy

What I'm Reading

Actually, what I'm listening to. I'm terrible at making time to sit and read so I listen to everything via Audible. I'm also terrible at actually finishing a book. I love starting and getting into a book and when I realize im only half way through, I get bored and start something else. Please tell me you're like that too. I can't be alone here. Anyway, I'm currently reading Essentialism by Greg McKeown (kind of a yawn, tell me it gets better), Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek (could literally listen to him talk allllll day), and just finished Becoming by Michelle Obama (all the heart eyes). And im about to start Dare to Lead by Brene Brown. Anything else I should start and maybe finish?

What I'm Creating

Winter is so long and cold. Cold and long. Long and cold. One of our favourite indoor activities is play dough!! My kiddies love making it, its so easy!!

In a pot whisk:

2 cups water

2 TBSP oil

2 cups flour

3/4 cup salt

2 TBSP cream of tartar

Cook, stirring often. Dough will start to get thick, just make sure the bottom doesn't burn. Remove from heat and knead until you like the consistency. Add 5-8 drops Essential Oil (we like calming, good mood oils like lavender, stress away or joy). Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

What are you up to? I hope you have the best week!

-Rach