Delicious Distractions...

"Eating and reading are two pleasures that combine admirably."

~C.S. Lewis

A new year has begun, and life rambles on…or does it?

Anthony and I both feel changed in more ways than we know how to describe. Paradigms have shifted within as we swim in a sea of thoughts about the world changing around us. Fresh perspective has influenced how we ponder life, love and the pursuit of happiness. We are being stretched gloriously.

Anthony continues to pray and discover as his next chapter unfolds… and I am continuing to delight in being romanced by the lavishness of simple pleasures.

And so here I sit, the blackness of night has unfolded like a velvet cloak, a pile of books and blankets by my side, ready to cozy up for the next few days while the cold weather sweeps on through my corner of the world, and I am filled with gratitude.

Thankful for home. For warmth. For comfort. For the sound of children's playful laughter rising in the air. And, for the luxury of participating in relaxation while other parts of the world are in a state of unrest. Grateful for a tank full of gas, a fridge full of food, and a closet full of clothing. For the conveniences that we often take for granted, and the freedom to enjoy all of the above without fear.

So.Very.Grateful.

Stay cozy Sweet Bellas…and if you're looking for a few delicious distractions to snuggle up with these next few days, may I suggest a plate full of my favorite pasta *recipe below* alongside "The Sacred Romance" by John Eldredge … indeed "two pleasures that combine admirably"

Ditalini Pomodoro with Fresh Mozzarella

This is the epitome of comfort food for me, sort of like an italian version of mac n cheese. Simply sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic with 1/4 cup of olive oil for about a minute over medium heat, add appx. 4-6 large diced roma tomatoes (or you may use halfed cherry or grape tomatoes, appx. a pound) along with salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste. Toss appx. 6 oz. of cooked ditalini (al dente)and remove from heat. You may also substitute any short pasta or even penne :)Toss in a handful of slivered fresh basil with appx. 6 oz. of fresh cubed mozzarella.

Mangia!