April was one of those months that felt full in the best way—celebrations, gatherings, fresh inspiration, and just enough kitchen time to remind me it’s still not my favorite place to be.
We went to a meeting Saturday and the caterers had this gorgeous fruit skewer tray Nothing complicated—just fresh fruit, a few flowers, and suddenly it feels special! Beautiful.
Spring Inspiration
Julie sent me some pics of her beautiful spring flowers in Oregon. I hope when we finally get a chance to visit, it will be in spring!
Upcoming Local Event: Anthem Health & Wellness
For locals, Deb’s meeting this month is at noon on Wednesday, May 6th at the Civic Center. The guest speaker is Jenny’s hub Paul. He is a really good speaker and will be presenting tips on staying hydrated during the hot summer months.
What I’m Eating- Sunday Kitchen Prep (The Necessary Evil)
Sunday was a full-fledged kitchen prep day. I spent the entire morning in the kitchen and if you have been with me more than a minute, you know the kitchen is NOT my happy place.
But fresh food does make me happy, so it is necessary. Drats!
After our big Aldi haul, I had some food I needed to prepare. I was also out of bread, so I baked a loaf of that.
This is what I did:
- Baked Sourdough (recipe here)
- Prepped crudités
- Made pineapple/ginger water (both from Aldi)
- Roasted and peeled poblanos and jalapenos (peeling peppers is not my super power – if you have tips I would appreciate it)
- Baked chicken/poblano casserole (recipe upcoming)
I’ll post the chicken poblano recipe on Saturday, but let’s just say it is decadent and delicious. I’m sure there is some saving grace about the healthiness of it. Like “high protein”?
If you dread kitchen prep like I do, the trick is doing it all at once so the rest of the week feels easy.
What I’m Reading
Not everyone’s interest, but I’m reading a book by Daniel Duval called Awakened. It’s a bible study with some mind-blowing conclusions.
Come Closer by Sara Gran, narrated by Julie McKay
My sisters loved this spooky story but I’m giving it a pass.
The Thicket by Joe R. Lansdale, narrated by Will Collyer
I have a feeling I either read or listened to this book before. I never get tired of Lansdale though. Great adventure.
The Grand Dark by Richard Kadrey, narrated by Vikas Adam
Narration was good, story was ok, but it was way too long. If you’re looking for a dark, dystopian, edgy story, this might be one for you.
The Impossible Fortune by Richard Osman
This is the latest in the Thursday Murder Club series and it doesn’t disappoint if you like a little fun in your violence.
Nobody’s Fool by Harlan Coben, Narrated by Vikas Adam
This book isn’t as fun at the Myron and Win series has been, but it was solid and I would recommend if you’re looking for a quick read or a good audio listen.
Wrap Up- Looking Ahead to May
As good as April was, I’m looking forward to May and all the delights of a summer kick off. Although summer in Arizona isn’t for everyone, I cherish the slower pace and the ability to get to the mountains more frequently.
Mountains = happy place
Kitchen = not happy place
In any case, I’m so grateful for good books, good food and beautiful friend like you. Thank you for being here.