Nourished Life Gratitude List 2015 – Week Thirty-Two

Can you believe that we’ve already lived through the first week of August my friends? This year is passing far too quickly for my liking, but I’m sure that’s what happens when you are busy living life. This week had its ups (getting some finishing touches crossed off our list) and its downs (me having a major stomach bug and not eating for two whole days) but there was plenty to be grateful for. Here is my Nourished Life Gratitude List 2015 Week Thirty-Two.

Monday: I mentioned in my Gratitude List last week that my Mum and Jess and I had enjoyed high tea at Newstead House but the caterer was rather rude to us. She actually was very forcefully rude about my need for a gluten free high tea and told me that ‘people like you shouldn’t be at high tea’. My sister went to bat for me and took the lady to task, both privately and in the media as the caterer had advertised the availability of a gluten free high tea and more than happily took my money. I am grateful that I have a sister who will stand up for me and unashamedly make a fuss when she feels that someone has been treated unfairly. She is my hero and I am grateful for her.

Tuesday: Today I was not feeling well at all when I went to work. I thought I could shake it off, but I made it through a grand total of 45 minutes at my desk before fleeing home and wrapping myself in blankets and monotonous daytime television for the remainder of the day. I am grateful for Chris taking care of me and making sure that I didn’t do anything but sleep and try to drink some water between bouts of being sick.Wednesday: No way on earth was I moving from my bed today and I was grateful to just lie back and let my body heal itself. I was also very grateful for all the lovely messages from my family and my online friends telling me to get better. Thanks lovelies!

Thursday: Lazarus has risen! Today I was back on board at work and back in the real world. Today I was grateful to get out for a little drive at lunchtime and have a big chat to my work friend Jess – I missed her while I was at home watching re-runs of Ellen.Friday: Tonight after work Chris and I headed to my Mum and Dad’s to have a visit (and also steal some internet…) and to give Molly lots of snuggles! I was grateful to catch up with Mum and Dad after a busy week and to eat Mum out of peanut m&ms. Hey! I was recovering…

Saturday: This morning started off slowly with a run and then Chris and I had Dad’s help putting up our curtains, a mirror, and doing some other finishing touches to the house. I am so grateful that my Dad was happy to help us and that our house is looking more and more like our home every day. After our house work Chris and I headed out for a lunch and movie date. We saw Fantastic 4. Verdict: B+. It tried hard and had all the ‘action points’ covered but there wasn’t much character development. I was still grateful to get out of the house and enjoy a date with my darling. In the early evening I went for a leg stretching (and popcorn burning) walk around our neighbourhood and watched a gorgeous sunset as the lights came twinkling on all around me.Sunday: Sundays always start with sweat and I enjoyed my slow run this morning before Chris and I went for morning tea and car washing at Mum and Dad’s place. I really enjoy washing my car and taking care of it so I was grateful that Dad and I could tool around with the car and enjoy some morning tea with the whole family. In the afternoon we had a visit to our new house from Chris’s Mum and Dad and we enjoyed afternoon tea with them while showing them around our new home.

Also this week:

• I made peanut butter chocolate chip blondies, and you should make them too.
• This over-the-top cake eliminates that tough choice between cake and cookies – and you can have your frosting too!
• The latest issue of Yum. Gluten Free Magazine is out and there are 3 Thoroughly Nourished Life cake recipes inside, including one completely new chocolate confection!

Nourished Life Gratitude List 2015 – Week Eighteen

Another Sunday night, another reflection on all that I am grateful for. This week I made a big change in something for my health, and I feel so much better even only seven days later. That big change was sleep. I’m going to write a bigger post soon about the health benefits of sleep, but just from a personal perspective I have never felt better after getting a week of consistent 7-8 hours every night. I am grateful that I have a life that accommodates this. Chris has been the one keeping me accountable for my sleep, and ensuring that I don’t get up at crazy hours, and I am grateful for his caring attitude towards my health and wellbeing in such a practical way. Now, onto a week where I was very aware of my daily gratitude because I actually had the brain power to remind myself to be present and mindful, and there was so much to be grateful for. Here it is, my Nourished Life Gratitude List – Week Eighteen:

Monday: Today I was grateful for an email inviting me to go on an evening walk with Chris. We wandered up and down the hills around our home and talked about the sensible and inane until the night had set in. It was such a lovely, slow, soul-nourishing way to end the day.

Tuesday: This afternoon I headed to the gym with a less-than motivated attitude. I hopped on the treadmill bargaining with myself to just get through 4 miles of intervals. I ended up making it into 5 miles and walked out out of the gym with a big grin on my face. I was grateful for the unexpectedly awesome run. Sometimes even the most motivated of exercisers needs a little reminder of how awesome they feel post-workout, today was mine. Tonight I was also grateful to talk to my Dad. I miss our every day conversations that we used to have when we lived together. I need to remember to just pick up the phone and call home more often.

Wednesday: I am learning so many lessons from Gretchen Rubin’s book ‘The Happiness Project’ and trying to apply them to my own life. I was grateful for a night of sinking into my book and letting the lessons soak in. I am in the right place to be open to lessons in happiness and habit-forming at the moment and I am grateful that this book came to me at this perfect time.

Thursday: Today Thoroughly Nourished Life hit over 200 fans on Facebook! Thank you all so much for coming and continuing the conversation with me there every day! If you haven’t joined Thoroughly Nourished Life on Facebook yet, there’s a spot waiting at the table for you! Come and see what I am obsessing over and sharing every day of the week!

Friday: Today wild storms flooded Brisbane and I was grateful to be inside, cosy and dry. This morning I was surprised when a huge bunch of flowers was delivered to me at work. My boss remembered Administrative Professional’s Day and treated me to a beautiful bundle of blossoms. I was grateful for the recognition of my work, and the lovely treat. Jess from work and I headed out to our usual Friday lunch and treated ourselves to lunch at a little cafe with large comfy armchairs rather than our usual sushi/salad feast. I was grateful for a lunch that was a real treat with Jess. Tonight after careful weaving my way home through the traffic and flooded streets I had a run at the gym and then snuggled in beside Chris for a quiet night of reading and listening to the rain on our roof. I was grateful for calls from Chris and Dad before I started driving home to ensure that I was going to be okay to drive and reminding me to be super careful. I am grateful that I have so many hearts caring about me every day.

Saturday: Today I started the day with a walk under the gorgeous sunny skies, and then headed into town to visit the Gluten Free Expo with Mum and Jess. Our trio had a wonderful time trying all the different gluten free goodies available now, and I got to meet the wonderful editor of Yum. Gluten Free Magazine, Bianca Shugg. The team at Coeliac Queensland were so generous with the gift basket that I won through their photo competition. I was so grateful that they chose one of my photos for their winners, and I can’t wait to try all the delicious treats inside! This afternoon I spent a great afternoon celebrating at my friend Michelle’s baby shower! We showered her little girl with all things pink and pretty and I was grateful to catch up with so many old friends from near and far.

Sunday: This morning I just needed to be out in the sun. Everything was bathed in beautiful blue. The sky was mirrored on the water. It was the perfect autumn Sunday morning and I was grateful to be out and part of the world on this glorious morning. Chris and I attended a 90th birthday party today too! I was grateful to see my family and say happy birthday to an old family friend who is still adventuring and making memories in his 9th decade – now his 10th!

Also this week:

• My latest breakfast obsession is gluten free and packed with flavour! I need to refill my granola jar soon!
• Happy lunchboxes make for happy people, and mine was packed with nourishment this week thanks to this spicy pumpkin salad.
• This week the latest issue of Yum. Gluten Free Magazine went live – including three recipes from Thoroughly Nourished Life! I am so grateful to collaborate with the team at the magazine – and now I have faces to put to names!

Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Thirty-Two

I know this is late, but I have been on holidays, even if the last few days have been more of a staycation than a vacation they still count because I slept in everyday and went for long walks by the water and ate way too many cookies (come back later this week and you will understand why they disappeared so quickly). Chris and I have been enjoying the break and catching up on films, books, and having big talks about all the important things in life. There has been a lot to be grateful for this week (and a bit), so here is the Thoroughly Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Thirty-Two:

Monday: Today I started a great new book and I simply could not put it down. I was grateful for the recommendation by my friend Jess and the perfect escape during lunch. Greek salad + Russian love story = happy lunchtime.

Tuesday: Today my workplace decided that we are going to participate in the RSPCA Cupcake Day! This day is a wonderful way to support a charity close to my heart and the hearts of all the pet owners I work with. I am grateful to work with so many generous people.

Wednesday: Tonight after work Chris and I left for our trip to the coast! Although the traffic wasn’t the best and there was a weird lady who told us to pull over because our tyre was ‘about to blow!’ (her words, which turned out to be a bunch of hooey but a funny story nonetheless) we eventually made it safely to the Sunshine Coast. We had dinner, saw a movie, and then fell asleep to the sound of waves. I was so grateful to see Brisbane disappearing in our rear view mirror and to get away from our routine for a few days. Tonight Chris and I also had some big talks about things, and it was good to start off our holiday by getting a few things off our chests and out into the open. I love this man.

Thursday: Today I slept in and then ambled out of bed for a nice long walk along the coast road. I watched the sea smash against the rocks, the surfers ride the waves, and people sun baking in the midwinter sun that felt more like summer to me. When I got home Chris and I treated ourselves to brunch by the water: sushi for me and fresh fish and chips for him. Afterwards we took a long walk along the beach and I made my first ice cream stop of the holiday. Oh.so.good. After our time in the sun an afternoon nap was in order and then we treated ourselves to a dinner out. We tried a (new to us) Italian place on the boulevard and it was perfection. The gluten free pasta was divine and our antipasto platter was overflowing with all the good stuff. We highly recommend Augello’s if you are headed to Mooloolaba any time soon. Over olives and pasta and a massive meat lover’s pizza for Chris we talked about travel and wrote down our dream itinerary for the next few years. It might be a little ambitious but if your dreams aren’t big enough to scare you they need some attention don’t they? I am grateful that Chris and I are finally thinking about setting sail for some distant lands and having some adventures. I am also grateful that today Chris took the reigns and decided our activities for the day. It was nice to relax and let him lead the way. I’m not very good at doing that and I definitely need to practice it more.

 

Friday: This morning called for another long walk by the sea and more deep thoughts while I looked at the waves. The wide blue sky makes my heart feel wide open and my desires and dreams are exposed to me. When I got back to the house Chris and I headed out for another walk, this time around the lighthouse. We stood at the edge of the cliffs and then made our way to brunch followed by more ice cream before we headed home. I was grateful for our quick getaway and the quick de-stress it provided. (also, please ignore the hair below the wind was crazy)

 

Saturday: This morning I woke up early and met Mum and Jess at the markets for breakfast. I am grateful for our weekly ritual and having my Mum and my sister as two of my best friends and closest confidantes. Chris and I headed out this evening to attend his cousin’s 21st birthday celebrations and I was grateful to catch up with Chris’s family and eat some wonderful food made by his Aunty Grace.

Sunday: Today was the ultimate lazy day. I ate cookies and finished reading my book in the warm sunshine streaming through the sunroom windows. Later in the day I went for a long walk to counteract the cookies (balance, people, balance) and then Chris and I lay in bed and watched movies all night long. I am grateful for the chance for a truly lazy day.

Also this week:

• Jess and I nibbled on slices of this gluten free Raspberry and Coconut Bread for breakfast on Saturday
• I listed my recent reads and explained how hungry for books I am at the moment

Well, Chris and I still have two days of holiday left to enjoy and I am off to enjoy some new TV series that Chris and I are trying out (still trying to find our ‘end of winter binge show’) with a crunchy Sundowner apple I picked up from the markets on Saturday.

Tell me, dear reader, what are you grateful for this week?

Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Thirty-One

We all have weeks that test our stamina and draw on our reserves of energy both mental and physical. This week was one of those weeks. However, instead of bemoaning by busyness (too much, sorry Chris) my reflection on this week has shown me all the things I have to be grateful for that nourish me even during a hard busy week. And, if that fails, I simply look at the sticky note taped to my office wall that reads ‘idle hands do the devil’s handiwork.’ That gets me moving. Here is my Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Thirty-One:

Monday: I started the week off with a new book! I am so grateful that my reading appetite has come back. I have so many volumes that are yet to be read, and old favourite begging to be re-read. My brain is ready to soak in all the words and revel in the worlds that they reveal. Coming next week: my recent reads.

Tuesday: I really struggle on the weeks that we have multi-day meetings. Paying attention for hours on end has never been my strong suit, and these days really take it out of me (and everyone else I imagine) so when I got home tonight I was grateful that Chris greeted me at the door with a big warm hug, put a movie on for us to watch while eating dinner, and then snuggled me until I fell asleep. True peace and rest.

Wednesday: Another meeting day and I was not feeling like getting to the gym tonight. I was grateful when Chris suggested that we go for a walk along the water instead. Sometimes I need to reminder that it’s okay to slow down and listen to the demands of your body to recover from the day. We wandered along the shoreline and I showed him a new beach front. We walked and talked and listened to the waves lapping on the dark shores.

Thursday: Today the meetings finished early and Jess and I took the chance to go out into the beautiful midday winter sunshine and have some lunch at a local café. I was grateful to escape and unwind over an iced Americano before heading back for the afternoon.

Friday: Tonight Chris went out to see some friends so I had the whole evening to myself. Although I missed him I was grateful to have some time to just potter around the house, go for an extra long run at the gym, and watch a movie while lying in the middle of the bed. I think sometimes it is important for a couple to take an evening apart to do the things that they really enjoy. In this case: me lying in bed texting my Mum, reading my book and hiding away from the world after a busy week; while Chris was at the Irish Club enjoying a few pints and some loud Celtic music with his friends.

Saturday: This morning I woke in the cold morning air and made my way to my standing date with Mum and Jess at the farmers markets. Jess tested out my newest quick bread (and approved – recipe coming this week) and we caught up on the happenings of the week. After the markets I washed my car at Mum and Dad’s place and I was grateful to Dad for helping me wash and polish my car and for Chris taking care of the parts that I can’t eat. In the cool of the evening air as the sun was sinking below the horizon I went for a run along the water and watched the sunset get trapped in the tidal pools. Tonight Chris and I had a late night watching movies. I was grateful for a day where I got to spend quality time with some of my dearest.

Sunday: I didn’t make it to a trail run that I was planning on going to this morning, but I did end up going for a very slow run along the water again. This is one of my favourite places in the world and I am so grateful that we get to live in such a beautiful part of the world. My run was a good idea because later today I had high tea with Josie and Caroline to celebrate Josie’s birthday! We went to the Sofitel and 30 stories above Brisbane we enjoyed varied delicacies and each other’s company. I am grateful that my oldest friends and I are still in contact and get to share these adventures. When I got home Chris and I took a short walk along the foreshore. We watched the storm clouds gather on the horizon and I could smell the shadow of rain in the air.

Also this week:

• I shared a rustic winter Ginger, Apple, and Almond Cake
• Here are some great quick lunch ideas to keep you healthy and fed during the work week

Now I am tucked in bed awaiting a bowl of warm veggies for dinner and anticipating the beginning of a new book. Happy Sunday night everyone.

Tell me dear reader, what are you grateful for this week?

Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Twenty-Nine

We are in the thick of winter in Brisbane dear reader. Right now I am curled up in bed under a quilt listening to a podcast about female Antarctic explorers reflecting on the week that was and scheming about what sort of treats to bake up over the next week. Apples will be involved (this will become clearer when you read about my week). Here is my Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Twenty-Nine:

Monday: Over the weekend my work friend Jess and her husband Bruno went to Stanthorpe. While they were there they bought a whole box of apples straight off the farm and Jess brought a whole bag to work for me! She knows that they are my favourite fruit, and these apples happened to be my favourite variety (Sundowner). I am so grateful to Jess for thinking of me and making me smile with her sweet gift.

Tuesday: Today I sent some doughnuts to my Dad (Chris is a great delivery man). I was grateful to be able to surprise him with a little sweet treat after all the help he gave me over the weekend with my car (I even got a care package with car wash, chamois, bucket, and tyre shine – yep, best Dad award – boom!). Thanks Dad.

Wednesday: Tonight I went for an awesome run, made dinner and a recipe for the blog, and even managed to relax with Chris while watching a film before bed. I am grateful for nights like these, which make the days pass quickly and the time away from work so special.

Thursday: The day started with another awesome apple gift from Jess (thanks Jess!) and proceeded to be very sweet indeed. I was grateful to have email chats with my sister in between spreadsheets, and talk to Dad about how much he like the doughnuts (he coined a new word – donutagus – so that’s a good sign). I am grateful for how connected I am to my family even when we can’t see each other every day.

Friday: Today I started the morning with a great run and at lunch time my friend Jess and I headed out to lunch. I am grateful for our Friday ritual and I look forward to it every week. Tonight Chris and I headed to his family’s house for dinner after work. Although the drive was long (about two hours) I was grateful for the time alone with Chris at the end of the week, and of course grateful to see his family when we finally arrived! Although it was cold outside, we sat around the table in the warm house and laughed and chatted all night long before tucking ourselves into bed for a great sleep while the wind howled outside. (Also, I brought a batch of these brownies with us.)

Saturday: This morning we slept in. How nourishing is the occasional Saturday morning where you don’t get out of bed until 9am? I rarely have the chance to just luxuriate in the warm sheets and wake up slowly chatting to Chris about all sorts of things so I was grateful for our slow introduction into the day. We had a long drive back, but thanks to snacks from Chris’s Mum’s mandarin tree (and avocado tree too!), and the fact that both of us are chatterboxes, we had a great drive back and then I holed up with ‘Born on the Fourth of July‘ (so many feelings) while Chris went and played in a poker tournament.

Sunday: This morning started off like every Sunday – an exercise session! I walked along the waterfront for 12.5km and when I got home I basked in the sun and read my book before Chris and I went to a birthday party for a dear friend of ours. I was grateful to sit out on the pavement of a nice cafe with Mum, Dad, and Chris and catch up while celebrating my (almost) big sister Donna. A very nourishing end to the week.

Also this week:

• I made these tropical vacation doughnuts and had to get them out of the house – pronto!
• A big bowl of this salad for lunch balanced out my doughnut obsession
• I wrote my own little op-ed on Fear of Missing Out – what are your thoughts?

Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Twenty-Six

This weekend has been full of activity, which was followed by much needed rest and reinvigoration. I had so many adventures this week and got to catch up with some friends and remember some things about myself that I had almost forgotten. I am currently wrapped up in a quilt Mum made me, sipping on a warm cup of tea, and about to put in some more time reading a great book. So now, I present to you: Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Twenty-Six.

Monday: Tonight after work I met up my friend Megan (hi Megan!) and we went rock climbing! This is the first time I have been in about ten years and I had forgotten how much fun it was, and how much I loved it! Although it was a little difficult getting back in the saddle (or harness) I was grateful for the chance to relearn something I enjoy and grateful to Megan for reminding me to step outside my comfort zone – there’s a lot to explore out there.

Tuesday: Today I started the day watching a beautiful sunrise over the bay, and with a text message from my Mum sharing her view of the same sunrise from her side of town. I was grateful to share this moment in time with Mum and start my day with an appreciation of the beauty of nature.

Mum’s view (top) and my view (bottom) of the same sunrise.

Wednesday: Tonight Chris and I spent some time curled up in bed watching political satire and eating dinner together. This has become one of our little midweek rituals and I am grateful for its recharging value.

Thursday: Tonight I had a great fast run before coming home to make a cake for the cafe I bake for every now and again. This week I made a raspberry and chocolate layer cake from one of my favourite baking blogs ‘Sally’s Baking Addiction’. I was really pleased with the way the cake turned out and I was grateful for a chance to try making something different.

Friday: Today my wonderful work friend Jess and I made it out of the office for lunch for the first time in a month! We had so much to talk about and I was grateful for a chance to catch up with my friend. Tonight I stopped at the gym for a run. I pounded out just over 4 miles in under 40 minutes. Not fast for some people, but speedy for this girl and I was grateful to feel my lungs clear and working again after last week’s brush with bronchitis.

Saturday: This morning Mum and Dad had plans for some work to be done on the backyard makeover so the whole clan (that would be all six of us: Mum, Dad, Trent, Jess, Chris, and myself) gathered to shovel and barrow dirt, rake and level gravel and laugh and tease and have a whole lot of fun along the way. I am grateful for a few hours of this hard work some times. I am reminded of the strength inside my body and what I am able to use these muscles for; the joy of working in the service of someone else, repaying years of wonderful things my parents have done for me. I am happy to help them realise the dream they have for our family home, and I can’t wait to lounge with a cold drink under the umbrella once the work is finished and summer comes around again.

Our delicious reward for working hard in the yard.

Sunday: After yesterday’s four hours of strength and endurance work I needed to get out of bed and stretch my legs with a nice long walk along the bay and through the hills. After that Chris took me out to the cinema to see ‘Transformers: Age of Extinction’. I have an unashamed love of action movies and I am grateful that Chris shares this with me. Also, after my long walk (12.5km) and work yesterday I treated myself with a hot chocolate and popcorn lunch (aren’t you proud Mum?).

Also this week:

• I enjoyed a slice or two of Sweet Potato Chocolate Chip Loaf for breakfast
• Running over 40 km this week called for some serious protein recharge in the form of Double Strawberry Protein Breakfast Smoothies
• My lunch box was filled with salad and thick wedges of Roasted Beetroot, Thyme, and Feta Frittata

Tell me dear reader, what are you grateful for this week?

Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Twenty-Four

Happy Monday readers! Or Happy Sunday to you if you are still enjoying the weekend. I wish I could tell you that I was super busy on Sunday, by Chris and I were actually just having a super relaxing end to the week and I was making the most of spending some time unplugged. Here is my Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 Week Twenty-Four:

Monday: Public holidays are the best. I don’t feel any guilt for sleeping in a little longer, turning off my alarm, and then just spending the day doing whatever I please. Today I woke up and felt like going for a long run. 12km later I had achieved my goal. Sure, there was some walking in there, but when you have gorgeous bayside scenery to enjoy you just need to stop and enjoy it sometimes. I was grateful for the beautiful weather and the smiles of the other runners, walkers, and cyclists who were out enjoying the day too. Later on Chris took me out for lunch and we talked about so many things while we dined on pumpkin soup and gluten free bread (me, and yes I did have butter – always) and grilled snapper with chips (him). I was grateful to be with my darling and just enjoy a relaxing lunch while we watched the world go by.

Tuesday: Back to work with a rushed start to the day after my colleague called in sick. However, the rest of the day was good and my co-workers really enjoyed the banana muffins I brought in to share with them. I was grateful to go for a run after work, and then go home and snuggle in bed with Chris eating pasta for dinner and catching up on The Colbert Report.

Wednesday: Today I was grateful for a day of rest. I got home from work, kicked off my shoes and got down to some serious baking. I was grateful that I gave myself a rest day from running and enjoyed some time in, and delicious results from, the kitchen.

Thursday: Today I am grateful that I spent some unplugged time with Chris in the evening. We headed down to the waterfront for a pre-dinner walk and talk and then continued our discussions at home. I need to remember the value of actively choosing to be offline for a few hours sometimes. Just put down my phone/tablet/laptop and just wander the world unbound.

Friday: Today was a busy one at work, but I had a great night to look forward to so it wasn’t that bad. Tonight I got in a heart-pounding run after work and then met up with my friend Josie for dinner. I was grateful to end the week on such a sweet note. Thanks Josie.

Saturday: Mum, Jess and I had an amazing day today. Jess and I started the day with a walk and then picked Mum up and took her into town for her birthday present: high tea at The Room with Roses and a viewing of Maleficent at the cinema (with popcorn of course). We had a delicious high tea featuring scones, egg sandwiches, and petit fours and wandered through the city looking at all the pretty things. Despite the rain it was a beautiful day to walk across the bridge and through the markets. Maleficent was an inspiring retelling of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale; Mum, Jess, and I all loved the way the myth was retold and the strong female characters. I was grateful for some quality time with the strong female characters in my life.

Sunday: Today I slept in and just watched the blue sky shine outside the window for a while. Then I got up and went for a run before doing some baking and major sugar consumption. It was worth it. Chris and I also continued our weekend binge watching of ‘Parks and Recreation’; I think we have watched about 8 hours of this hilarious show this weekend alone. We are in love with Leslie Knope and the whole department. I am grateful for snuggling with Chris and laughing until we snort.

Also this week:

• Lunch this week was Quinoa, Olive, Zucchini and Rocket Salad
• Morning tea was Peanut and Millet Muffins
• I listed my favourite things in a June edition of Thoroughly Nourished Finds

Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Twenty-One

On Sunday I was busy celebrating the birthday of my wonderful sister and feasting on oh so many yummy things. This week has been a busy one with meetings galore, treats to test, and running to do! I enjoyed putting my feet up this weekend and celebrating with the ones I love, and I was grateful for spending so much time with my family. Sunday night gave me plenty of time to reflect on all that I have to be grateful for this week, so I present to you, to start the week off with an attitude of gratitude, my Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Twenty-One:

Monday: Today I dear friend of mine went in for some surgery. She was very nervous about the operation, but she soldiered on and I received a text message later in the day that everything had gone well. I am grateful for the skill of the surgeons and her bravery. I am sure life will be a whole lot better with her new knee in place.

Tuesday: Today I knew there was just one thing I wanted to do when I got home – make cookies. I was grateful to pad softly around the kitchen after dinner and bake up some sweet treats for Chris to take to work. I am learning the rhythm of this new life and how I will fill my time when I am at home. Wednesday: Today was the first of two days of important meetings at work. I was grateful for the help of my colleagues to make sure everything went smoothly. The best part of the day though was getting home and having a nap with Chris who then bundled me into the car, bought me sushi for dinner and settled me in bed with an episode of Anthony Bourdain to watch. Thursday: Today was day two of meetings. I was grateful that the big boss came up to me at the end of the day and offered his thanks for my assistance and told me that I could have a few hours off one day whenever I wanted. Have to make good use of that! Then I squirrelled myself away in the kitchen and started testing a recipe that I can’t wait to share with you all very soon.

Friday: Today I got to spend a girl’s night with Jess! After an awesome session at the gym we enjoyed sushi for dinner, then Jess got busy with a baking job she had on while we watched some of our favourite classic teen movies including ‘Sugar & Spice‘, which is so terrible that it’s good… I was grateful to be able to spend the whole night chatting to Jess and just catching on our lives at the moment. I was also grateful to sleep over Jess’s house, her guest bedroom is like a hotel room – so pretty and comfortable!

Saturday: Today was Jess’s birthday! We started out the day with a long walk and then a quick breakfast and then we were off to have lunch  at La Dolce Vita (one of our favourites) with Mum, our aunty and grandmother before we all headed to the performing arts centre to watch Melinda Schneider in a Doris Day tribute show. Jess has loved Doris Day since we were little and this was an awesome way to celebrate her birthday! To cap the day off she even got to meet Melinda and have her photo taken. I am grateful to have an interesting, kind, and amazing sister who is also my friend and today was a great way to celebrate her. Sunday: Today Jess and I started the day with another long walk because we knew an afternoon of feasting was ahead. I then went home to work on Jess’s birthday cake. This was definitely a diet killer! But it’s all about balance and today the balance tipped in favour of five layers of brownies and cookie dough! I was grateful that so many people turned out to celebrate Jess’s birthday. Tonight I am curled up in bed with yet more recipe books and visions of salad dancing through my head. As I said, it’s all about balance.

Also this week:

• I whipped up a quick vegan stir-fry for dinner
• I sent Chris to work with a batch of Chocolate Peanut Cookies (not before I stole a few for myself…)
• We celebrated my little sister’s birthday!

The week ahead is going to bring some great veggie filled meals, and maybe a cookie or two. Keep an eye out for Jess’s birthday cake recipe “The Chocolate Brownie Cookie Dough Cake” coming on Tuesday (p.s. it’s gluten free!). Tell me dear readers, what has made you grateful lately?

Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Seventeen

This week was short on work (3 day weeks should be the standard I think) and long on family time, relaxation, and adventures with my darling. Right now we are recovering from travelling back from a birthday party in Roma (Queensland, not Italy) and I have some time to reflect on all the things I have been grateful for this week. I was riding under the big blue skies and grateful for the space out there that gives a mind the room and time to roam. Here is my Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 Week Seventeen:

Monday: Today I had a big sleep in and when I was finally conscious a go-slow day was definitely on the cards. I read my book, wrote a few words, did some house chores, and then Chris and I schlepped to the gym together before we had a ‘fend for yourself’ supper and watched ‘River Monsters’ (we have terrible taste in reality TV shows). I was grateful for a day spent at home just nesting and enjoying some time together. I was also very grateful to Chris for downloading ‘Little Paris Kitchen’ starring Rachel Khoo so that I had something to binge watch all evening.

Tuesday: Today I am grateful for the feeling of contentment that has settled over me like a warm blanket in the past few weeks. I am in a good place. I have goals and aspirations and ways that I want my life to grow, but here, where I am right now, is a great place to be. I am grateful that I got to try a new workout when my faithful treadmill run was unavailable, and I am extremely grateful to Chris for making my dinner. I love watching him in the kitchen and he is a really good cook too.

Wednesday: I was early in to the office today, and when the clock struck 4:30 I was ready to go home to our little cottage and then out for a walk/run with Chris. I am so grateful that we have a beautiful place to exercise and that we never run out of conversation. We watched the sun set and the moon rise over the calm waters of the marina and then made our way home for a quiet night.

Thursday: Today I am grateful for unexpected and awesome family dinners! My darling sister messaged me inviting Chris and I to dinner. We arrived to the smell of lasagne (gluten free and vegetarian for me!) and apple crumble. So glad I went for a run after dinner (my fastest in a long time!), and so grateful to have a wonderful little sister like mine. Very blessed to be a part of my crazy, co-dependent, chattery bunch. Chris and I went for a drive to our house block after dinner, nothing much has happened so far, but still grateful that we are able to take this step (leap!) together.

Friday: Today we got up before sunrise and gathered with thousands of others in the dawn to commemorate the sacrifice and commitment of our armed forces. Every ANZAC Day, every time I pass the eternal flame in the city, or run past the cenotaph near our home I am reminded of the men and women who sacrificed their lives and those who still serve, and I am grateful. Grateful for their commitment. Grateful for their sacrifice. Grateful for our freedom; the price of which was not free.

Saturday: Today I got up early and went for a run, and another quick one was on the cards. Then Chris and I bundled into the car with some snacks, a smoothie for me, and plenty of episodes of Sawbones (if you are a science/medical history nerd check out this entertaining podcast) to keep us entertained. I am so grateful that Chris and I do well on road trips together. We arrived in Roma in the evening, quickly caught up with some friends, and then headed to the golf club for Chris’s brother’s surprise party. We had a wonderful night catching up with family, and Chris introduced me to his friends from his home town. I am so grateful for the kindness of people and the opportunity to meet the people who made Chris the man he is today.

Sunday: Today was all about the drive back from Roma. Chris and I and our faithful car made the 6 1/2 hour drive back home. I am grateful for cookies, coffee, diet coke, podcasts, and delightful conversation. When I got home Dad washed my car for me while I was eating lunch. I am so grateful to Dad for taking good care of me. Thanks Dad!

I am now curled up in bed, watching Anthony Bourdain and looking forward to baked beans for dinner – it’s the simple things that are the best.

Also this week:

• We started off the week with some healthy Spicy Thai-Inspired Kale Salad, which I must make again soon
• Chris took to the kitchen and made me vegetable-filled Fried Rice for dinner
• A sweet treat appeared on Saturday – perfect for a Mother’s Day gift!

Tell me, dear reader, what are you grateful for this week? Any road trip tips?

Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 – Week Fifteen

This week was amazing and busy with adventures, which is why I am delivering this Nourished Life Gratitude List 2014 a little late. So much life to live and so much to be grateful for. Here I present Week Fifteen:

Monday: Grateful that when I got home after a full and busy day (including run, meetings, and paperwork) and find Chris waiting with snuggles and a new television show for us to watch together and relax. We are both admirers of Neil deGrasse Tyson and his new show Cosmos is fascinating for two science nerds like us. Romance: our way.

Tuesday: Up this morning before the sun and grateful to head down to the harbour for a run. The autumn mornings make it tempting to stay in bed, but the call of the footpaths near the bay draw me out of bed most mornings. Grateful to have a beautiful place to run.

Wednesday: Tonight I was so grateful to go for a walk with Chris after work. I hope our Wednesday walks become a tradition. We get to talk about anything and everything and being outside while the sun goes down strips away the stress of the day. I was also grateful for a surprise visit from Chris’s parents. Short but sweet.

Thursday: Sometimes we have difficult conversations, well maybe not difficult but challenging, and I am not always good at computing my feelings and opinions right on the spot. That is why I am grateful to Chris for giving me hugs and time to think about things and letting me express my opinion when it comes to me. Also, I am grateful to Dad for rescuing me in the driveway and helping me get my trillion shopping bags into the house.

Friday: Today I took myself out of the office for lunch. I picked up some sushi and drove to a local park and sat in the sunshine just listening to the silence. Then, I made use of the swing set swooshing up and back and dangling my head back to get a better view of the sky. I am grateful that I took that opportunity because it reminded me how free I felt as a child, and how I can recapture that now as an adult.

Saturday:Today was filled with celebration of family. Mum and I headed to the markets early in the morning for some breakfast and found some beautiful produce for the week ahead. Then I got in a quick run before we all headed down the coast to celebrate the wedding of two dear friends. Congratulations Bree and Justin and thank you so much for inviting us to be part of your special day. I am so grateful to be able to bear witness to two wonderful young people promising their lives and love to one another. Also grateful for dancing, lolly bars, and watching the sunset with a cool drink in my hand.

Sunday:This morning I shared a wonderful morning walk with my sister. I was grateful to catch up with her and burn off some of the cake from last night! I was also grateful to do some Easter baking and make some perfect gluten free chocolate cupcakes (stay tuned for tomorrow’s post). Then in the evening Chris and I headed to a new (to us) Turkish restaurant and caught up with our closest group of friends. Grateful for all the love today.

Also this week:

• I devoured Chocolate Chip Pebble Cookies before going to a wedding
• We talked about doing it every day (working towards your goal that is)
• I devoured this Haloumi, Date and, Almond Salad like it was my job!

It’s been a little quiet round here, just working out some space and housing issues and then I will be back in the kitchen with a vengeance!