March's Six

Image Credits: upper-left tile via Rifle Paper Co, upper-middle tile via thegardengrazer.com, upper-right tile via pexels.com, lower-left tile via Time Magazine, lower-middle tile via julieseastsandtreats.com, lower-right tile via The Rolling Stone.

The aim of this series is to corral some favorite things and share them in a short and sweet post. Whether it’s a song, book, recipe, tip, or product, hopefully you will find some inspiration in this list.    

1. I have recently embraced meal planning for a number of reasons. Before I go on, I want to note that I am not referring to the the kind of meal planning that involves making one gigantic batch of rice, veggies, and chicken and eating the same thing day after day. Instead, I am trying to be more intentional about the upcoming week’s meals to save myself extra grocery trips and last minute takeout dinners. Moreover, planning in advance has given me a reason to regularly try out new, delicious recipes instead of putting together whatever is in the fridge for less-than-exciting results. Since I am all about a handwritten list—whether for appointments, groceries, or everyday to-do’s—I have found success with this new planning by writing down the upcoming week’s meals and groceries. To that end, check out these cute notepads: here, here, here. PS: If you’re interested, I can share what’s on my list via our IG.

2. On the subject of meal planning, how about this for a delicious meal? I am going to pair this BBQ chickpea chopped salad with a batch of this boxed cornbread (which you can find virtually everywhere). If you really want to go crazy, mix up a few margaritas and I would say we have ourselves a pretty easy, yummy, and healthy Friday night dinner plan.

3. For the parents who have traveled or plan to travel by air with their babies/toddlers: read this for a little laugh.

4. Another Marilynne Robinson book has made the Six Series list and it’s titled “When I Was a Child I Read Books.” I can’t wait to get started on it as her novels and collections of essays never disappoint. PS: I just ordered a used $6 copy for an unmarked book with free shipping. Check the used (and new) options here.

5. It’s March, so I can’t help but nod to St. Patrick’s Day. Guinness and corned beef don’t really do it for me, but these festive sweets certainly do. And most fun of all, I know my son will have a blast helping whip up these rice krispy treats.

6. The raspy sultriness of Cat Power’s voice is totally arresting. A few of her songs that perfectly capture that include “Willie,” “Lived in Bars,” and “The Greatest” (here, here, and here). Hope you enjoy.

Alison