Welcome, dear friends! It’s time once again for a heartfelt edition of Weekend Reflections, where I step out of the kitchen for a moment to share a slice of life. April has graced us with its presence, bringing with it the promise of vibrant May flowers just around the corner. There’s an undeniable joy that comes with planting flowers in the Spring, a cherished ritual I eagerly anticipate every year. Each passing season sees me embracing more and more of my mother’s delightful passion for gardening, and it truly makes my heart sing.
This week, I’m thrilled to share a collection of moments and thoughts that have recently brought warmth and wisdom into my world. From playful family antics to inspiring personal growth and important causes, here are some highlights I couldn’t wait to tell you about:
1. April Fool’s Day Fun: Pranks, Laughter, and Unexpected Twists
The nine-year-old in our home absolutely thrives on April Fool’s Day. He possesses a mischievous spirit, always eager to concoct his own playful pranks. What’s truly endearing, though, is how much he seems to enjoy being pranked himself – a fact he might never openly admit, but his reactions tell a different story!
A few years ago, I decided to play a classic trick on him. I announced I was making brownies, and indeed, I did bake a batch (because I’m not that mean!). However, before serving, I secretly cut out the letter “E” from brown construction paper and presented it on his plate. A “brown-e”! The reveal brought gales of laughter, and he absolutely adored the clever wordplay and the surprise.
This year, with minimal time for elaborate planning, I needed a quick and simple prank. My weapon of choice? Oreo cookies. With careful precision, I gently twisted apart several Oreos, scraped away the creamy white frosting, and replaced it with a dollop of sour cream. The stage was set, and I eagerly awaited his reaction.
He picked up the doctored Oreo, with the sour cream subtly oozing from the sides, and without a moment’s hesitation, dunked it into his glass of milk. Then, to my utter surprise, he ate the whole thing. Every last crumb. And he didn’t say a single word. My carefully crafted prank seemed to be an April Fool’s Day fail! I was bewildered. It wasn’t until I confessed my trick that the real laughter erupted. We both shared a hearty laugh over my failed attempt and his remarkably stoic reaction. Next year, I’ll need to brainstorm something even more ingenious to truly surprise my little prankster!
Do you have any memorable or hilarious April Fool’s Day stories? I’d love to hear them – please share your playful tales!
2. March Madness and the Spirit of Underdogs
March arrived and departed in a flash, and as I reflected on the past month through my photo album, I realized it was a period of quiet, yet fulfilling, moments. Miles’ first basketball season came to a close, marking a significant milestone. It was wonderful to watch him navigate the world of team sports, learning new skills, understanding strategy, and building camaraderie with his teammates. His coaches played an invaluable role, fostering a positive environment that made a huge difference in his development and enjoyment of the game.
Beyond youth sports, our family truly embraced the exhilarating energy of college basketball, particularly following the Iowa State Men’s basketball team. Miles especially cherished staying up late with me to watch them compete against the University of Illinois in the intense Sweet Sixteen round last week. Though they ultimately faced a tough loss, their season was nothing short of incredible, filled with thrilling plays and undeniable team spirit. Watching them compete with such passion and dedication was truly inspiring.
With my beloved Cyclones out of the running, my allegiance has now shifted. I’m wholeheartedly rooting for NC State to win the entire tournament! There’s something undeniably captivating about a good underdog story, and their journey perfectly embodies that spirit. Entering the tournament ranked number 10, they defied expectations and continued to demonstrate resilience and grit, steadily advancing through each round. Their unexpected ascent has been one of the most compelling narratives of this year’s March Madness, proving that heart and determination can often triumph over initial predictions.
3. A Mom’s Night Out: Laughter, Inspiration, and Culinary Adventures
A couple of weeks ago, I indulged in a much-needed mom’s night out. After securing a fantastic babysitter, I met up with two dear mom friends to see one of my absolute favorite comedians, Kelsey Cook. The show was nothing short of spectacular; she was incredibly funny, delivering a performance that left us all in stitches. But more on that memorable experience in just a moment.
This experience served as a powerful reminder: if you are a mother, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of carving out time for yourself, time to pursue activities that genuinely bring you joy and help you recharge. Whether it’s a few hours with friends, a quiet solo activity, or simply a moment of peace, these breaks are essential. Every time I get a few hours away to connect with my friends, I feel completely re-energized. It’s as if my patience is replenished, and I return home feeling like a better, more present, and more understanding mom. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity for maintaining balance and well-being in the demanding journey of motherhood. Have you done something just for you lately? If not, consider this your gentle nudge – you absolutely deserve it!
Before the comedy show, we enjoyed a delightful dinner where, remarkably, all three of us ended up ordering the same dish. It was a sublime short rib and smashed sweet potato creation that was simply divine. The foundation was a creamy, perfectly seasoned smashed sweet potato, generously topped with tender, smoked short rib, a zesty sprinkle of jalapeños, sweet-tart cranberries, creamy goat cheese, and a vibrant chimichurri sauce. Each bite was a symphony of flavors and textures, igniting my culinary imagination. My mind immediately began spinning with ideas for a Southwestern-inspired version, perhaps featuring succulent chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and a silky avocado sauce. Doesn’t that sound absolutely delicious?
Returning to the comedy show, we were incredibly fortunate to have front-row seats, putting us literally about a foot away from the microphone. What truly struck me about Kelsey Cook, beyond her impeccable comedic timing, was her sheer confidence. As someone who occasionally speaks in front of large groups, I can attest to the nerve-wracking nature of public performance. Even though I generally enjoy it, it requires extensive preparation, practice, and a healthy dose of courage. I can only begin to imagine the immense amount of time, dedication, and relentless practice that comedians invest in honing their craft and perfecting their material. Kelsey appeared effortlessly funny, but I know, without a doubt, that her seemingly natural talent is the result of countless hours of hard work, tireless effort, and unwavering energy to reach the level of mastery she demonstrates. It was a truly inspiring observation, applicable far beyond the stage.
All in all, it was a fantastic show and a wonderful evening. There’s truly nothing quite like getting out with good friends for a few hours of laughter and connection to refresh the soul.
4. What I’ve Been Listening To: A Fresh Perspective on Life
I’ve mentioned this before, but I honestly can’t recall the last time I sat down and read a physical book from start to finish. In our busy modern lives, audiobooks have become my sanctuary, allowing me to “read” while multitasking – during walks, chores, or my commute. Lately, one particular audiobook has captivated my attention and challenged my perspective in profound ways. The title is a bit provocative, but the content is incredibly insightful: “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson.
Manson’s central thesis dares to suggest that perhaps we shouldn’t strive to be relentlessly positive all the time, a concept that immediately resonated with me. As someone who naturally leans towards finding the silver linings in every situation, his arguments have prompted deep introspection. I’ve begun to contemplate why I instinctively seek out positivity, and whether there’s value in acknowledging and embracing the full spectrum of human emotions, including discomfort and struggle. The book isn’t about apathy; it’s about discerning what truly matters and choosing to allocate our limited “f*cks” wisely. It encourages a more realistic, grounded approach to happiness and success, challenging the often-toxic culture of constant optimism. It’s a refreshing and thought-provoking listen that has opened up new avenues for personal growth and self-understanding. If you’re looking for a book that will make you pause and re-evaluate your approach to life’s challenges, I highly recommend giving this one a listen.
What thought-provoking books or engaging podcasts have you been reading or listening to recently? I’m always on the lookout for new recommendations!
5. What I’ve Been Making Lately: Fresh Flavors and Grilling Adventures
March proved to be a wonderfully productive month in the kitchen, bringing quite a few exciting new recipes to the blog! I pour a lot of love and effort into developing these dishes, and there’s nothing I enjoy more than hearing your feedback and experiences with them. If you try any of these, please don’t hesitate to let me know – your comments truly make my day!
Recent Culinary Creations
Cheesy Turkey Noodle Casserole
A comforting and easy-to-make dish, this casserole is perfect for using up leftover turkey and creating a hearty meal the whole family will love.
How to Make Chicken Stock
Elevate your cooking with homemade chicken stock! This guide walks you through the simple steps to create a rich, flavorful base for all your soups and sauces.
No Bake Oreo Balls for Christmas
These delightful no-bake Oreo balls are incredibly easy to make and a surefire crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday gatherings or a quick treat.
Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Planning your holiday feast? Explore our curated list of the best Thanksgiving side dishes, from classic favorites to new traditions.
Beyond these new additions, a couple of tried-and-true recipes have been on heavy rotation in my kitchen. The Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos have become a huge hit, making an appearance twice this month alone! They are incredibly flavorful, wonderfully easy to prepare, and most importantly, enthusiastically kid-approved – a winning combination in any busy household. I’ve also been thoroughly enjoying the fresh and vibrant Grilled Asparagus Salad, which perfectly captures the essence of early spring produce.
With the very first hints of warm weather, my mind immediately turns to outdoor cooking. I absolutely love getting outside and firing up my Traeger Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker. There’s something uniquely satisfying about the smoky flavor it imparts to everything. So far, I’ve kept things relatively simple, grilling up delicious chicken, juicy burgers, and perfectly tender asparagus. However, as the season progresses and I find more inspiration, I’m genuinely excited to start experimenting and getting a little more creative with my outdoor culinary adventures, perhaps trying out some slow-smoked ribs or even a dessert on the grill!
What delicious dishes have you been experimenting with or enjoying in your kitchen lately? I’d love to hear about your latest cooking triumphs!
6. A Special Message: Honoring the Gift of Donate Life
I know this series is traditionally called “Friday Five,” but some messages are simply too important to wait. So, this week, I’ve got six meaningful things to share with you! As I penned this post from a cozy coffee shop, I connected to their Wi-Fi network. A smile instantly spread across my face when I saw this week’s password: “Donate Life.” It was a beautiful, serendipitous reminder of a cause very close to my heart.
April holds immense significance as National Donate Life Month in the United States. It’s a dedicated time to honor and celebrate the incredible generosity of organ, eye, and tissue donors, as well as to acknowledge the lives transformed by these precious gifts. It’s a month to raise awareness and encourage more people to register as donors, understanding the profound impact they can have.
As many of you may already know, my son is alive and thriving today because of the immeasurable selflessness of two incredible organ donors. Not a single day passes without me thinking of his donors and feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Their extraordinary decision granted him the chance to live a full, “normal” life, a precious gift that we cherish every single moment. It’s a daily reminder of the power of human compassion and the miracles that can arise from it.
“Without the organ donor, there is no story, no hope, no transplant. But when there is an organ donor, life springs from death, sorrow turns to hope and a terrible loss becomes a gift.”
This powerful quote beautifully encapsulates the transformative nature of organ donation. It highlights how, even in the midst of profound loss, the act of giving can spark new life, turn despair into renewed hope, and transmute a terrible sorrow into an invaluable gift for others. It’s a testament to the enduring human spirit and the legacy that can be created through such an act of kindness. If you haven’t already considered it, I would like to wholeheartedly encourage you to register to be an organ donor. Your decision has the potential to save and enhance countless lives, offering a beacon of hope to families facing unimaginable challenges. You can easily register to become an organ donor here.
As always, thank you so much for taking the time to read and be a part of this community. At the moment, the easiest way to leave a comment and share your thoughts is directly on my Facebook page. Please feel free to connect with me there! 🙂
Have a wonderful weekend filled with joy and reflection!
Warmly,
Ashley